My Life!

Costa Rica-A Dream Come True!

2011-10-15T09:45:00.001-07:00

One of the top goals on my bucket list is to go to Cots Rica and do a zip-line in the rain forest. I know it sounds crazy but hey whats new!?! With my crazy schedule and small budget I did not think this would happen for a long time.

I work full time and am working on my MBA at the same time. This is the reason I don't post much right now! I kept saying I was going to run away for a week to Costa Rica and not take my cell phone and laptop! Well....plans changed a bit...

In July a friend, Rebecca, posted on FaceBook a comment about going to Costa Rica. I made a comment back and long story short I met her about two weeks later in Costa Rica! We stayed a few nights in Arenal and then one night in San Jose.

In Arenal did a zip-line in the rain forest. I definite check on my bucket list! The views were amazing! It was so fun! After we drove up to a hotel for a view of the volcano, hiked to a waterfall, and finished with a great dinner at an Italian restaurant in town!

The next day we shopped, took a drive around the lake, and soaked in the natural hot springs! It was so relaxing! The pasteries are incredible!

The last day we drove to San Jose, shopped, and had dinner at a Lebanese restaurant. San Jose is a busy city! It was fun to see!

I hope to go back someday and visit the beach (I know it is hard to believe that I did not go to the beach!) and see more of the country! I am so happy Rebecca talked me into going and that I could catch up with a good friend!

Lily's 1st Birthday!!

2011-07-24T14:38:00.000-07:00

My cousin's daughter, Lily, turned 1 on July 3rd! This is a major milstone in her life! So I went to Rexburg, Idaho to celebrate. We went to the drive in, had breakfasts, dinner, the Mountain Man Show, rafting down the river, a parade, Bear World, and fireworks! It was so much fun! Happy birthday little Lil's! I hope we have many more amazing celebrations in your life! Love you!

Acers was my little shadow the entire weekend! I kinda miss it!

31st Birthday and Mother's Day!!

2011-07-23T20:12:00.000-07:00

For my birthday and Mother's Day the family and Janae Sherman went to Moab. We rented Razors, went shotting, and went to Goblin Valley. It was a great trip! I had started a new job that week so it was a welcome break. The razors were the most fun! We were dirty and exhausted by the time we finished! We rolled one, almost went off a cliff, and tore the skid plate off the bottom of one.

Ahma's Birthday!

2011-04-29T23:04:00.001-07:00

The weekend of March 6th Mom and I flew to Long Beach where Joy and Ahma were going to "breakfast" or so Ahma thought! They mysteriously ended up at Long Beach Airport where Mom and I were waiting! Ahma was so excited!

After leaving the airport we went to breakfast at the King's Hawaiian Bread Factory. Such good french toast and malasadas!

Then we drove to Joan's hotel where Susie was waiting to surprise Ahma! That night was had a birthday party for Ahma! It was so fun! Dad decided he was missing out on all the fun and drove down and joined us!

Sunday morning Ahma, Joy, Mom, Dad, and I went to Flappy Jack's for breakfast. Mom and Dad then left to spend the week driving up the coast. Ahma, Joy, Susie, Joan, Taylor and I then drove down to see the Flower Field. It was supposed to be blooming however it was not but worth the effort!

We finished the night having dinner at Joan & Barry's house.

It was a fun filled, great weekend!

Sundance Dinner!

2011-04-29T22:57:00.000-07:00

In February Mom, Dad, Brandon, and I had dinner at Sundance. It was a great night as we enjoyed great food and chatted. I love our family times at Sundance!

New Years 2011!

2011-04-29T22:54:00.000-07:00

For New years Mom, Dad, Kelsey, Tanner, Conner, and I went bowling. It was fun and even Trip joined in on the fun!

Perkins Family Newsletter

2010-12-31T11:22:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas From the Perkins-2010

I do not know how we did it but we have 6 dogs as you can see from the photo. Brandon and Kristaʼs dogʼs fortunately live with them. This was taken at the Draper Pool. People bring their dogs to swim and play before they drain it for the Winter. We had so much fun and our pup, Tripp really enjoyed jumping off the diving boards. After we finished swimming we took them to the “lure” course where Tripp, Annie and Gus love to compete.

A definite highlight of this year was our trip to Italy. Itʼs beauty is overwhelming. There is so much history in that country. It was a perfect trip except Brandon had to work and we truly missed him being with us.

It has been a busy year for all of us. Time just seems to be going so fast.

Krista bought a condo not too far from Brandon and us. It is so cute and she loves having her own place. She is still working for IHC and has started an MBA program this year and hopes to get into Hospital administration. She also found a wonderful little pup, Shaylie. She is a chi-corgi X and is perfect for Krista. In October Krista did a 1/2 marathon with Jan and her two aunts, Joy and Joan in San Francisco.

Brandon loves his job at Sundance Resort. He is now the National Sales Manager and travels a lot more. He and Gus love to hang out watching sports and having fun with friends.

Kelsey is working at Primary Childrens Hospital. She is truly enjoying her job. She is still riding and did a little showing this year along with training her yearling Cisco. She is dating Tanner, who we all really love. Kelsey is also in the process of going to nursingschool.

Robert thought he would try retirement but then decided to go back to work with a Subcontractorʼs commercial group. He loved the trip to Italy, with perhaps Venice being his favorite. He was able to attend a Boston Red Sox game with Brandon. Fenway Park is the ultimate ballpark for a baseball fan.

Jan loves teaching at Waterford School. She is busy with her business, Live Oak Dog Obedience. She has expanded to service dog training and training her dog Tripp for service work and of course she is still riding her horses. Janʼs Dad passed away this fall. What a great man and wonderful example to all of us. He is truly missed by so many. He is buried very close to our twins, Tawny and Jamie. We are grateful to live in Utah and we really enjoy the mountains. We especially enjoy our Cabin where Jan likes to hang out for weeks at a time during the summer. We are grateful for our family and friendsand wish all of you a very merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Christmas Eve at Carver's!

2010-12-29T10:19:00.001-08:00

Every Christmas Eve we go to a nice dinner at Carver's! It is so good! It is one of our favorite resturantes in the valley!

Christmas Lights at Temple Square with The Erickson's!

2010-12-29T10:02:00.000-08:00

On the Tuesday night before Christmas my cousin Katie sent me a text asking if I wanted to go to dinner and Temple Square with her family. I jumped in the car and met them at Olive Garden! It was a great night! The kids were so cute and Christopher was so patient with all the picture taking Katie and I were doing! It was so fun! THANK YOU KATIE AND CHRISTOPHER AND FAMILY!!!! LOVE YOU!!!

Christmas Tree!

2010-12-29T09:54:00.000-08:00

Since this is the first year I will be living on my own during the holidays I decided I was not going to decorate or do a tree. I have decorated countless trees working at the mall and was content and even happy to not have to worry about it. Then my manager gave me an old artifical tree that we had used in the office for years. It is still in good shape. So I graciouly accepted and wondered what on earth I was going to do with this tree. When I went to set it up I realized how big it was and after some rearranging I found a place for it. Then I realized I had to get some decorations... So Wal-Mart I went! As I spent the evening decorating it I had on Christmas music and just had fun! It turned into a great experience!! I love it!

2010-11-20T15:13:00.000-08:00

Dear Ahba-

Through the years you have been there for me with so much. You have supported me in plays, singing, karate, school, and Church. You have made for one AMAZING GRANDFATHER but even more so you are MY AHBA and I am your KRISTA-BELL!

I have so many memories of us. For starters our time in Hawaii! Mona Kea, Malasadas, the beach, and the pool! the sunset from Mona Kea was one of the most beautiful ones I have ever seen! The Malasadas--Well top all donuts! They are so yummy! Playing in the waves at White Sands Beach is a memory I will always hold dear! And our times swimming in the pool in both Hawaii and Glendora will never be forgotten! Oh and lets not forget parasailing! I never thought I would go so high but being up in the air was INCREDIBLE! Thank you for pushing me to do it! My love for Hawaii runs deep because of you!

Now there are a fews things we need to talk about. First the octagon shaped, red signs that say STOP. Well they really do mean Stop! I promise! They do not mean "roll and go"! Second the solid white line...Well you are not supposed to cross it--Even if you want to get around a truck! Third, "Feliz Navidad" is Spanish. Cambodians do not speak Spanish! Without these things though, you would never be my Ahba! They are what make you YOU!

Ahba you have taught me to love the Gospel, to aim high, to eat avacodos, to eat fruit, to enjoy the moment, to laugh and to love! You have installed in me a love to study the Gospel, attend Church, and to travel. Thank you for making me who I am today!

I love you Ahba wiht all my heart! I will see you someday again!

Love,

Krista-Bell!

Fall!

2010-11-20T15:01:00.000-08:00

Fall is not my favorite season. I do not like the cold and it gets cold and then leads to even colder winter. Yet this year we have had the most vibrant color on the trees and in our sunsets! It is amazing!

Cruising with the Hightowers!

2010-11-20T14:30:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, November 6 I flew to Houston, TX where Jana met me and took me to Galveston. She and her parents, Bill and Manda, where doing a booth at the Lone Star Motorcycle Rally. It was a unique experience! We stayed in their motor home 2 blocks away and spent the day at the rally. It was loud and wild! It was fun!

Then Monday we headed out on the Carnival ship: Ecstasy bound for Progreso and then Cozumel, MX. It was nice and relaxing! The food was good and I loved the towel animals on our beds at night!

In Progreso we took a bus out to tour Chichen Itza, the Mayan Ruins. It was so cool! I cannot believe the craftsmanship and engineering they had! The pyramid was incredible!

In Cozumel we found a small beach with lounge chairs and umbrella's and snorkeling! It was great! The snorkeling was amazing!

After the cruise we got in the motor home and headed to San Antonio where Jana took me to the Alamo and the River Walk! So cool! Salt Lake needs a River walk! It is a hidden area with restaurants and shops! I loved it!

The next day I travelled home. It was one of the most interesting trips home! The flight from San Antonio to Phoenix had 2 medical emergencies and one emergency landing. Big thank you to the 6 paramedics on board our flight! They were able to safely stabilize the 2 different people and get them off safely.

Halloween!

2010-11-01T15:58:00.001-07:00

Halloween is not a favorite holiday. It is SO morbid! I do not like it! Though seeing that I work in a pediatric office we do dress up for the kids. So this year the front desk went as witch's. It was fun!

Saturday night Mom & Dad's neighborhood had a Trunk-or-Treat for the kids and mom and I had fun handing out candy as I do not get Trick-or-Treater's. We even had some adults come dressed up. My favorite was Dog the Bounty Hunter and his wife Beth!Melissa, McCall, Jill, and Maren
Brittany, Rose, Ilene, me, Sharon

Scooby and Jackie

Jackie, Lauren, Jill, McCall, Melissa

Dr Kim Gehle

Everyone

Dr Rick Strong

Dr Cannon Marriott

The Trunk-or-Treat

Mom having fun

Josie picking her candy

The Stephens or Dog and Beth!

Witch's Night Out at Gardner Village!

2010-11-01T15:55:00.001-07:00

This year Mom, Kelsey and I decided to go the Witch's Night Out at Gardner Village. It is a great big Halloween party! We started by having dinner in the kitchen at Bucca di Peppos then headed out for fun and shopping! On the way out we ran into Katie, Joan, and Brittany! What a fun night!

Nike Women's Marathon!

2010-11-01T15:21:00.000-07:00

On October 16 Mom and I flew to Oakland and took the Bart to San Francisco. We met up with Ahma, Joy, Joan, Alysa, Matthew, Madisen, and Taylor to check out the tents for the 2010 Nike Women's Marathon. After we had a great5 lunch at Cheesecake Factory before Mom and I checked into our hotel. One I will refer to as the "Bates' Motel". It was clean but in an ifie part of town and no screens on the windows. Did I mention our room was on the first level near the street? This is what happens when you try to save a buck...

Well back to the Marathon. Earlier this year Joy and Joan asked me to do this marathon with them because "if you finish you get a Tiffany & Co. necklace"! I decided to go for it for the experience and hopes to get in shape as jewelry is not a big deal for me. So Tina Funaro and I have worked hard for several months, walking a few times a week. (My rheumatologist nixed the running early on) As time got closer to the race that "little blue box" had gained a new meaning: Conqure!

Sunday morning, October 17th, Mom and I headed to the starting line with a Starbucks pit stop on the way. We met up with Joy and Joan amongest 22,000 people and we prepared to start. Mom did not sign up to do the race and was waiting to see us off. Well we got going on our journey. A short time in I got a call from mom saying she was walking it for fun?!?! So we kept in touch most of the way. The path we were taking took us from Union Square to the Piers with a view of Alcatraz though Fisherman's Wharf to Ghiredelli Square thought Golden Gate Park around a neighborhood and back to the Marina area for the finish. There were a few killer hills but not as bad as I thought. I finished in 3 hours 52 minutes. At the finished I was handed the "little blue box" It was great! The madallion says "I RUN TO BE." Mom also finished. She was wearing flip flops the enitre 13.1 mile trek.

After the race we went back to the hotel, cleaned up, and checked out.

I am grateful for the experience and may do it again but really...the next blue box better have a ring!

Gardner Village With The Erickson's!

2010-11-01T15:06:00.000-07:00

Two weeks before Halloween Mom and I met Katie & Christopher & family at Gardner Village. It was so fun! Christopher and the kids were having a blast finding all the fun witch's they have. Mom, Katie and I have a blast checking out the fun shops. What a great night!

Girl's Getaway at the Cabin!

2010-09-26T17:16:00.000-07:00

Jana, Allison, Lisette, Shaylie and I headed up to the cabin Friday night for a getaway. After I drove all the way there I realized I left the keys at home! So we headed back to Park City to meet my parents and then headed back to Oakley. Once in and we had power and water we made dinner. We finished the night with a movie. The next morning we slept in and had breakfast before heading home. It was so fun! So relaxing! The leaves are even beginning to change!

Daniel's Summit!

2010-09-26T17:08:00.000-07:00

We decided to head up to Daniel's Summit to ride ATV's a few weeks ago. It was so fun! We are having a blast with the bikes! It is a great bonding time. We rode for hours!

Shaylie!

2010-08-22T16:22:00.001-07:00

Since moving out I have wanted to get a dog. Trip is just too big to have in a small condo. I decided I wanted to rescue a small dog from either the pound or Humane Society. I found Shaylie August 14th and adopted her on August 18th. She is so cute and loveable! She is a Welsh Corgi/ Chichuchua mix. She is full of life! Welcome Miss Shaylie!

Mom's Birthday!

2010-08-22T16:09:00.000-07:00

This year Mom and I celebrated her birthday by going to both the Nashville Tribute Band (NTB Aug 5) and Due West (DW-Aug 6) concerts at Sandy Amphitheater. It was so fun! We loved feeling the Spirit of the NTB and rocking out to DW. After the the NTB she was able to meet Katherine Nelson, Jason Deere, David Osmond, Tim Gates, Brad Hull, and Matt Lopez. Then Friday night she was able to meet Tim, Brad and Matt again.

She finished up her celebration as she and Dad stayed at Sundance Saturday night and we meet as a family for dinner at the Foundry Grill Sunday night. It was one FUN weekend!

Bull Wars!

2010-08-22T16:03:00.000-07:00

For several years we have gone to the Oakly Rodeo for the 4th of July. The last 2 years we have missed it. I love the bull riding but tend to get bored with some of the othere things after the first couple runs. Kamas solved that problem for me! This year we went to the Fiesta Days Bull Wars! It is all Bull riding! It was so fun and even ended with fireworks! It was even fun when everyone broke out singing along to God Bless the USA by Leigh Greenwood during the fireworks!

New Place!

2010-07-17T18:42:00.000-07:00

I finally decided / realized I needed to get a place of my own. So after alot of chaos, problems, stress, and heartbreak I purchased a small one bed, 1 bath condo in Cottonwood Heights/ Fort Union area. It is the perfect location! I am walking distance to shops, resturants, etc. The freeway access is around the corner. It is perfect!

BlueBird Cafe Series at Sundance!

2010-07-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

On July 16 Brandon treated the family to dinner and the BlueBird Cafe Concert at Sundance. Dinner was amzing at the Foundry Grill! The filet mignon and choclate tarts are to die for good!Then we headed up to the ampitheater to hear Gary Burr, Georgia Middleman, and Tony Haselden. Gary and Georgia were incredible! It was a beautiful, warm night to top it off!

California!

2010-06-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

On May 28th Uncle Bud passed away. 26 hours later Aunt Louise (his sister) followed. It was a sad yet happy thing as they both lived long, happy lives. They will be dearly missed by all.

Mom, Kelsey and I drove down early on June 3rd to California for the funerals. That night Ahma had a huge bar-b-Que foe the entire family. Everyone who could make it from Papa and Nana down. That is 4 generations. We are such a close family that everyone is just cousin, aunt, and uncle. Thanksgivings were always huge until about 10 years ago when there were just too many. It was one wild night. It was so fun to see so many I have not seen in so long! The Heaps, Woolleys, Dows, Allreds, etc.What a blast!

Friday morning we attended Aunt Louise's funeral and in typical Ellworth fashion went right into the viewing and halted everything as we were late and the family prayer was about to begin! Would you expect anything less???

The funeral was beautiful. It was held in the ward and Church I grew up in. That was a trip down memory lane!

Then we drove out to Rose Hills in Whittier for the Graveside Service for Aunt Louise and then had the Graveside Service for Uncle Bud. They were very close to each other and they were both very nice Services.

After we returned to the Church for the family luncheon where even more reuniting took place.

Saturday Ahma, Joy, Mom, Kelsey and I went to breakfast at Flappy Jacks. Then Mom, Kelsey, and I took Annie and Cayman to Huntington Beach's Dog Beach. They LOVED it! It was so nice and clean and fun! Later we went shopping at Fashion Island. Then we met Ahma, Abba, and Joy to have dinner at In-N-Out. It was a great trip!

Strutt Your Mutt!

2010-06-09T19:21:00.001-07:00

I was woken up early one Saturday morning because my mom wanted me to join them at Strutt Your Mutt. He had a blast. Annie also loved the Lure corse but thought the water was too cold! (So did I as I was swoaked thanks to Trip) Cayman loved just doing her tricks! It was a fun morning.

It's Offical--I have hit the "Dirty 30"!

2010-06-09T19:07:00.000-07:00

The day before my birthday I had taken the morning off for a doctor's appointment and then a facial with Jana. When we got home Kelsey asked if I had gotten my flowers from Dad. I was so confused because my Dad does not buy flowers and I had been out all morning. Well when I arrived at work I had a happy surprise! These beautiful flowers were waiting for me! I love them!

The night of my birthday Jana and I had dinner at the Phildelphian and then saw the Back Up Plan. So funny!

Then the day after my birthday we went as a famly to Carver's--Our resturant of choice! The food was amazing as normal! After Mom surprised me with an ice cream cake! It was so fun!

It was a great birthday after all! I was not happy at first because I was feeling like I had not accomplished much in my 20's. I am still single as can be, live at home, and work a job that I am not progressing in. I guess I just needed to revise my thinking.

Spring!

2010-05-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

The Sun came to visit for a few short days recently. There were some beautiful bloosms outside the office I work in and had to get some pictures before the weather turned bad again!

Due West!

2010-05-02T14:02:00.001-07:00

So Jana and I recieved a bunch of tickets to a benefits concert last minute in Provo. Due West was playing so that made it better! Initially we had been debating if we were going or not and I had even decided not to go. But the Eagle came through at the last minute and hooked us up! It was fun to see them play and Bill (Jana's dad) even joined us! What a fun night!

Family Dinner!

2010-05-02T13:59:00.001-07:00

April's family dinner was fun! I did not get many pictures but got a few of the two wild ones! They were so cute! I also love the fact that Acer's smiles for every picture--even when he is crying!

Easter!

2010-05-02T13:45:00.001-07:00

Easter was a fun day! It started with and amazing Brunch...Not sure why Brandon likes cold pizza for breakfast but he wanted it!

We then tore the house apart for our annual egg hunt! It was so fun!

Sean Hannity

2010-05-02T13:41:00.001-07:00

Ahma called the other day to inform us that Sean Hannity would be doing a book signing in Murray. Mom was stoked! She begged and begged for me to go so I gave in and spent over an hour waiting in line so she could meet him and get a book signed. What an experience...

St George and Due West

2010-04-24T14:09:00.001-07:00

March 26th-28 Jana, Allison, and I went to St George to see the Nashville Tribute Band and Due West play. It was a fun getaway! It was also warm-Bonus! We slept, shopped and relaxed! It was so fun! The concerts wer at Tuachan Amphitheather. It is outdoors in a canyon surrounded by redrock. It was beautiful!

Nashville Tribute played Work. Their new serious coming out soon. It was so good! The Spirit was so strong! Michael McLean, David Osmond, and Catherine from Emma also joined the show. What a great group of musicians and talent! After we went to hang out with everyone and have dinner catered by Bella's from Farr West. Yum!

Due West played the nest night! Loved it! They are so fun to see play! Tim, Brad, and Matt mix it up so much you never see the same set. After we joined everyone for dinner and fun at Marv's. Yum again!

Day 10-Returning Home

2010-04-24T13:51:00.001-07:00

We had an early flight so we woke early and packed up to head home. We were all ready to get home. We had a cab come and take us to the airport.

Ever been in a place where you can hardly communicate and need to get somewhere? Wonder if you are going to the right place? It is a weird feeling. When we arrived at the airport we went to check in and there were soldiers with BIG guns on catwalks above us. It was a scary feeling. As we tried checking in the lady was trying to tell us we were in the wrong place and did not totally understand where we needed to go. So we headed to were she was telling us to go (she did give us a number of a building so it helped). When we arrived in that building they starting telling us we were in the wrong place again and sent us to yet another building.

Finally we were in the right building and had to stand in a long line to check our bags and then to go through security. It was interesting.

After waiting for a while we boarded Alitalia Airlines and headed towards America. The flight back was insane! I took Ambien and hardly slept with people getting up and bumping my head, the noise, the chaos. It was awful! Take AirFrance both ways was the BIGGEST lesson learned! And through it all the flight attendants slept!

After an eternity in the air we landed in Chicago. I have been told that you want to kiss the ground when you return to America. It is true! I guess you never realize how lucky were are to live in a free country and for the most part can communicate with each other!

Finally we boarded our flight to Salt Lake City! We cheered when we arrived almost an hour early! It was so nice to be home and sleep in my own bed and take a normal shower and do my hair!

I am so grateful for the amazing experience and to learn and see so much! Yes! I do want to go to Europe again!

Day 9- Rome and the Ruins

2010-04-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

Our last full day in Italy was spent seeing the Coliseum and the Ruins from Cesar Augustus time. It was interesting to see that some is still standing and to learn how advanced their architecture was and how fancy it was. The inside of the Coliseum and Cesar's Palace were covered in marble. Not just the floor but also the walls. The Coliseum was also earthquake proof until the Catholic Church stripped one side of the rods they placed in the structure. It was incredible to see so much and learn so much.

Mom really got into the small structures and city they have uncovered. She now wants to join an archaeological dig. Good luck on that!

As we left we started just walking and came across the Pantheon. What an incredible building! The dome has an opening at the top so the Pagans prayers would go to Heaven. It is so cool to learn so much history and have it be real. We do not have history that old here in America.

From there was came across the Triton Fountain in the middle of an intersection. It was pretty cool.

At the end of the day we spent some time searching for Baberini. No one would tell me why we were looking for another Church and why it was so important we were spending a couple hours looking for it. Well we finally found it but the crazy lady running it told us it was closed and we could not go in. Come to find out it houses the bones of some 4,000 monks that were mass murdered. Yeah not my thing. And we were going to pay to go in this place??? I had seen enough bones!

Rome had the most to see and wish we would have had more times there. It was interesting!

Day 8- Rome & Vatican City

2010-04-23T20:08:00.000-07:00

On our first full day in Rome we took the subway to Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica. The subway was like a packed can of sardines!

Everyone told us not to take a tour at of Vatican City because they cost a fortune and there is no benefit of it. Wrong! We ended up taking a tour and learned a TON! It was so worth it! We started in St Peter's then went through the museums to the Sistine Chapel.

In St. Peter's there is the area that Mass is held and the walls are lined with the crypts of deceased Popes and other important figures in the Catholic Religion. The center of the Cross (the shape of the building) houses a large pergola that stands on top of what is believed to be the tomb of St Peter. Above is the famous dome. It is so big that you can fit in the Washington monument and still have room to spare height wise.

Later we heard from another tour guide what the statues with balconies above on each corner surrounding the center are for. It is believed that the St Veronica houses a piece of the cloth that wiped Christ's face on the way to Gethsemane. Another is believed to house a piece of the Cross, another a nail, and the last was believed to house the skull of St Andrew- which was returned to the Greek Orthodox Church several years ago to make amends.

Then we went through a courtyard with a perfect sphere copper statue.

After we headed into the Vatican museums. They are halls lined with paintings and tapestries that are so detailed and perfect it is amazing!

The halls/ museums lead to the Sistine Chapel. You expect a Grand Chapel as you approach the Sistine Chapel. But when I entered it it was just a room with paintings by Michelangelo on the upper walls and ceilings. They were cool paints but I guess I expected more. It was neat to see! It was a humble Chapel compared to the Cathedrals seen earlier! They say no pictures but I did not know that until after I had taken a few so enjoy!

Outside the Sistine Chapel was a beautiful courtyard.

We then headed to a nearby restaurant for a late lunch and down the road for yummy desserts! It was a nice break from being on my feet!

We then headed into St Peter's for one last look. Check out the Picture Dad took of the Twilight sky!

The Swiss have been guarding the Vatican for over 200 years. We were able to take our pictures with them. The guy we talked to was very nice.

After a long day we jumped back on the subway to go back to the hotel. Mom did not get on fast enough and had to take the next train 5 minutes later. I think she liked the adventure!

As we were walking back to the hotel we were given a flier for a concert that night with a group from a Christian college in Pennsylvania. We realized they were a group we had met the night before at dinner so we stopped in to hear them sing. They were good. They recognized us and started waving! It was fun to see Americans!

After going back to the hotel to freshen up we headed to dinner down the street. The hostess was not very friendly and we were leaving when a guy ran out and told us to come in and he would take care of us because Dad was a Boston fan. He had seen his hat! The guy was nice and the food was okay. It was a long day!

Day 7- Travelling to Rome

2010-04-23T19:43:00.000-07:00

On Day 7 we took the train from Venice to Rome. It snowed while we were on the train!

We checked into our hotel after taking a taxi a few blocks because of the DOWNPOUR! The hotel, Giolli Hotel, is on a main street, Nazional, and sits above some shops. The rooms were so SMALL and there was no sound barrier between rooms. We had some LONG, SLEEPLESS nights!

Once in Rome we headed out to fulfil my dream--To see and make a wish i the Trevi Fountain. It was beautiful! It is weird because the fountain just sits on the side of the road. There is no square or Piazza. Even Dad got in on the action and made a wish!

We then headed over to the Spanish Steps. There was a cool view of St Peter's Basilica but the rain made it so the pictures did not turn out.

Day 5- Venice, Murano

2010-04-23T19:18:00.001-07:00

Our second full day in Venice we started out by heading to Murano Glass Factory in a boat. Most major glass pieces and chandeliers are made here. They are very expensive. It was interesting to see how they did glass blowing. After we took a water taxi back to Venice and headed out to the Rialto Bridge to shop.

We then meandered our way through the area seeing more Churches. Venice would be a great place to play Hide-N-Go Seek. There are small alleys everywhere!

We really enjoyed our hotel here and Francesco, the Concierge, was so cool and helpful!

Day 5-Venice

2010-04-23T18:44:00.001-07:00

On our second day in Venice it was Sunday so we decided to attend Mass at one of the local Churches. It was interesting being that the entire service was in Italian. It was good though to see another Church Service.

After Mass we headed out to San Marco Square and checked out San Marco's Cathedral. We saw the famous horses that sit on top of the building and the detailed architecture of the building. While in the square there were a ton of pigeons. We found that if you stick your hand out with food they land on you to eat. It was cool!

We spent some time wondering and checking out different Churches and seeing the neat little canals and alleyways. Then we got some much needed sleep.

Day 4- Travelling from Florence to Venice

2010-03-24T18:34:00.001-07:00

On Friday we packed up and took a taxi to the train station were we boarded the train to Venice. When we arrived in Venice after 1.5 hours on the train we then boarded a Water Ferry to San Marco Square. The fact that the town is built on the water is amazing in and of it's self but the amazing architexture and narrow streets and water ways are a whole different wonder. Venice is beautiful! It was also FREEZING!

We checked into the Duodo Palace Hotel, an old renovated building with the originial fresca's on the ceiling. This was by far the nicest hotel we stayed in.

We then headed down to see San Marco. It was so cold I finally broke down and bought a down coat.

After we went over to the Rialto Bridge and had dinner in a small resturant.

Day 3- Florence

2010-03-22T16:41:00.001-07:00

On our second day we headed out to the Uffizi Museam. It houses TONS of art, including Michelangelo's. After speading an hour or more looking at paintings and statues on only the top floor we called it good.

After leaving the Uffizi we took some time to shop.

It was super cold and so we deided to have lunch in a Chocolate Caffe so we could warm up. While there we met Nino. He was a local leather worker who ran a couple shops in town that sells to big names like Chanel, Prada, and a bunch of other names I can't afford. He invited us to come see his shops and made sure we knew there was no pressure to buy anything. The work was so cool! He took us to his shoe shop after looking at the jackets. Shoes... You cannot take Mom, Kelsey or I into a shoe shop and tell us we cannot buy anything! Dad broke down and we walked out with 6 pairs of shoes! Don't worry Nino took care of us considering they were top-notch leather!

Nino suggested we take some time just walking the streets and shop and enjoy our last full day in Florence. So we did just that! It is such an interesting city with so much to see. Even the Restorants are quiant, beautiful places! As for Gelato...It was a regular treat!

Day 2- Florence, Italy

2010-03-21T17:14:00.000-07:00

On our first full day in Florence we thought we only had 1 full day so we crammed in EVERYTHING we could!

First we went to see the Duomo. It is an amazing cathedral in the center of Florence. The building is covered in marble and has the neatest hand crafted detail that is unbelievable! I cannot fathom how the building could be built with such intricate detail done by hand on such large buildings.

As we first walked in the building we entered and paid then started going up a narrow, steep staircase. It kept going up and up. I quickly realized it was going way higher then I could take so I headed back to explore the cathedral while Mom, Dad, and Kelsey headed up. At the top they were able to see the detailed top of the dome and then headed outside where they had a great view of the city. They also met some friends from Japan on their fun trek to the top of the dome.

Second we made our way down to Ponte Vecchio. It is the only bridge to survive World War 1. It is hundreds of years old and is lined with small jewelry shops. It is known for its jewelry.

After we ran into St Croce. It is another neat cathedral in town with great detail. It is also the resting place for many, many people; including Rafael and Galileo. It is very interesting to see how it is common place to bury people inside Churches.

Kelsey was very excited to have the chance to sit where Ozzy Osborne sat. It was quite the highlight to her day.

Next we went made our way though St Croce Piazza and had dinner at a cute little Pizzeria. By the way pizza is very good in Italy. It is thin but chewy crust. The desserts are always a work of art and taste AMAZING!

Day 1-Travelling to Italy

2010-03-15T18:18:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!!

These are a bit out of order but the blogger will not allow me to move the pics around. Nor will it allow me to move the written part up!

Kelsey and I having dinner at ZaZa's It was such a cute, quiant resturant!
All of us enjoying our meals

On the plane to Florence

At the Houston airport

Waiting to leave Salt Lake

AirFrance plane...Very good service and nice plane!

This is Kelsey most of the time on the plane and in the airports!

Right after Kelsey lost her camera! Look at her face!

Dad

Me in Paris

Mom and I in Paris

Mom and Dad on the plane

Me flying to Florence

A cool building in Florence

The view from our balcony in Florence

Dad in Florence...It was so cool to think these buildings have been there for hundereds of years...

On March 2, Dad, Mom, Kelsey and I flew from Salt Lake City, UT to Houston, TX to Paris France, to Florence (Firenze), Italy. We spent countless hours in the air and airports. It was exhausting.

In Paris Kelsey lost her camera in the airport in a secured area. Dad tried to go back and look for it but they would not let him in and said they could not find it. Kelsey was so mad! She said she "could not be in Italy without a camera". Due to this we missed out flight to Florence. AirFrance was so nice and quickly booked us on the next flight out and even gave us vouchers to get lunch while we waited. It is an airline that we recommed as the flight over was rather comfortable compared to our flight home (will explain later!).

After arriving in Italy we took a cab to the Meridiana Hotel. The cab driver did not speak English so we soon relized what it was like to be somewhere where it is hard to communicate.

The hotel was home for the next 3 nights. It was a clean decent hotel with small rooms and breakfast every morning. By the way-Double rooms in Europe are 2 twin size beds put together...Makes for sleepless nights when sharing a room with someone who is a wild sleeper!

After getting settled Mom took a nap and Dad, Kelsey, and I set out to find a camera. We finally found an electronics store and Kelsey was happy!

After we all walked into town to the Accademia to see the Statue of David (sorry there are no pictures--they would not allow it for some unknown reason). Then went to see the Opera del Duomo and had dinner at ZaZa's. ZaZa's was the best resturant we ate at the whole trip! The Almond Truffle sauce was amazing!

We also realized we would be doing ALOT of walking on this trip!

Trip is something else...

2010-02-28T16:06:00.001-08:00

Yesterday my mom and I realized we did not know where Trip was. I had been a while since either of us had seen or heard from him. So my mom started her usual search through the house. It is a common thing that the dogs get in a room and get stuck in there as the may accidentally knock the door shut.

As she opened the guest room door she saw the following...

Unfortunately they where down pillows! There is feathers all over the place! Though we were mad we HAD to get pictures for proof!!!

Jana's Birthday!

2010-02-27T15:36:00.000-08:00

Friday night Jana, Alyson, and I went to PeiWei for dinner then to the Off Broadway Theater for the Comdey Improve Show. I laughed so hard! It was hilarious! It was fun to go out and do something different! It was also fun to celebrate Jana's Birthday!! Happy Birthday Jana!

Going Private

2010-02-17T06:15:00.000-08:00

I am taking my blog private soon. If you want access please comment telling me who you are and your email address. Thank you!

Trip and Mean Fish

2010-02-15T13:51:00.000-08:00

I have one fish in my fish tank named Mean Fish because he does not play nice with others! One night while watching TV Trip discovered Mean Fish! All of sudden he began barking and tried to get to the fish! It was so funny to watch!

Brandon hosted dinner

2010-02-15T13:47:00.000-08:00

Brandon invited the family for dinner for the first time. He moved into his condo in 2006 and we have never been invited over. He made a great dinner and we had fun haning out!

Ben, Kallie, & Andrew

2010-02-15T13:35:00.000-08:00

Every month we have family dinner with which ever cousins and their families that can make it. In January we had dinner with Katie, Christopher and their kids. While here Andrew found the dog crates! He had a ball playing with Ben and Kallie in the crates!

New Years!

2010-02-15T13:26:00.000-08:00

This year I spent New Years' at the cabin with my parents, Kelsey and Tanner. It was low key and fun! I am not a fan of New Years so the thought of going snowmobiling and 4-wheeling was very enticing! At the last minuate I decided to go and grabbed my gear and left. The next morning I went into Park City to meet Jana who spent the day with us at the cabin having fun! I hope that this year brings a year of love and greatness to all!

Christmas Letter

2010-02-07T18:22:00.000-08:00

Perkins' Family Newsletter
2009

Needless to say this was quite a year. As we have heard from many of our friends, this will be a year that we are glad to see be over. We have had many trials but we have hung on tight and made it through.

The beginning of the year Rob was made the VP of a tile company but in Oct. left the company and has since decided to try the retiring life. In September he and Brandon went to Boston and watched a baseball game. Soon after his father passed away and he flew back with his brother and sisters for the funeral and dedicate his father's grave. He is now keeping busy taking care of our rentals and playing Mr. Mom.

Jan's father was put in the hospital in March with complications with his Alzheimer's disease and made quite a few trips down to California to be with the family. She is still loving her job teaching science at Waterford. Jan traveled with Kelsey to Colorado and California to show her horse and then had a great weekend trip to Park City with Krista. Gardening was a favorite and this fall she did a lot of canning. You know Jan she always has to have the family prepared for an emergency.

Krista took out her endowments this year at the Draper temple. She announced it with surprising us with a cake announcing the date of going through. Her Ahma and Joy and many of her cousins came along with her brother Brandon. Kelsey met us at home for dinner after. That was such a special day for all of us. She is still enjoying her job at the pediatric office. This was a year of travel for her. She and a friend met in San Fransisco and had a great time going sight seeing and watching a Giant's game and going to see Wicked. She then went with another friend to Nashville, Tennesee. She also enjoyed going to Park City for the weekend with her mom. Krista also is looking into buying a condo. She had one that the people had accepted her offer and then at the last minute backed out. So she is on the watch again.

Brandon is still working up at Sundance. He was made the national sales manager this year and has done extremely well in his job. He enjoyed his trip to Boston with his dad, making some good memories. He also traveled to Oregon, Washington and up into Canada with some of his friends. Brandon loves his bulldog, Gus. He's his best buddy!

Kelsey has had quite a year this year. She traveled to Colorado and California with her horse Cowboy. She won quite a few ribbons this year and ended up being reserve champion at the UHJA banquet. Kelsey worked at the cardiac unit at the University Hospital for about 8 months and then took a job working at Mountain View Animal Hospital. She had a lot of struggles with her health the second part of the year that put her in and out of the hospital quite a bit. She not only hit our deductible, but hit our out of pocket max. During her illness she had to have a endoscopy and met Tanner who assisted with the procedure and they are now going together.

We have two new additions to our family this year. In April we had a new colt, Cisco, Oakley's last baby with us. Then in August when Jan was down in California for her Dad's birthday Rob went out and brought home a new lab puppy, Tripp who ended up having Parvo and being a $1000.00 + dog. Now with our little Gus, Cutter, Annie, Cayman we are up to 5 dogs!!!! Wow, what are we thinking.

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Love,

The Perkins Family

Jan, Robert, Krista, Brandon, and Kelsey

Dinner at Sundance!

2009-11-18T19:30:00.001-08:00

Every so often we have the opportunity to eat dinner at Sundance. Sunday, November 15th was one such occasion. Brandon had to work and invited us to eat with him at the Foundry Grill. It is such delicious food! It was also nice to spend some time with family right now as life has stressful moments.

Time Out For Women!

2009-11-18T19:23:00.001-08:00

On November 13th and 14th Mom, Kelsey, and I went to Time Out for Women. It was put on by Deseret Book at the Salt Palace. What an AMAZING experience! It was such an uplifting, spiritual conference. They had several speakers and two musicians. I LOVED Sheri Dew's talk on becoming closer to Christ and being happy. She is incredible! Hilary Weeks sang some gorgious songs she wrote about Christ and life. Kris Belcher made us laugh so hard as she spoke of trials in her life of blindness and over-coming obstacles. I want to go again! I loved the entire weekend!

Utah Game-Go Utes!!!

2009-11-18T19:20:00.000-08:00

My dad and I went to watch the Utes play on November 7th. They won! What a game!

Nashville!!!

2009-10-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

One of my closest friends, Jana, invited me to join her and her parents at her sister's house in Nashville for a few days so I could check out the area. It was so fun! I appreciate Tim and Roberta opening their home to me while there. What an amazing trip!
We flew in Tuesday and then Wednesday we drove downtown to see the college areas and they even took me to the Goodwill Outlet. That was an experience...It is where things that do not sell at the regular Goodwills go. I wish I had a picture of this place!

The fall colors were incredible!

Vanderbilt is one of the big Medical Schools there. The area was so beautiful!

That night we got ready to go out to the release concert for Tuniverse.tv. Due West was playing!

Photo of Due West after they came in on the Red Carpet!

It was held at the Wildhorse Saloon! Wow What a Place!!

Tim was able to get us tickets for the event.

Dave Robbins and Restless Heart also played along with some other bands.

Due West put on a GREAT show! I love their music!

Bill and Manda Hightower

Bill, Manda, Jana, and Roberta--They were all so fun!

Wednesday we took a drive out to Franklin to see the fall colors. Wow! The picture does not do it justice!

The Nashville Temple in Franklin

That night Jana, Manda and I went to the BlueBird Cafe to hear some song writers' "in the round". It was so cool!!

It was such an amazing trip! I am so glad to be home but had so much fun! It was so nice to get away and clear my head! I did pretty good at avoiding my cell and email. I finally feel like I have an idea of what is going well in my life and what I need to change. Thanks to the Hightower and Gates families for everything!

Halloween Fun!

2009-10-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

We had a Halloween Party for Relief Society at Church and I dressed up as a witch! It was so fun to visit with everyone and do a couple crafts!

Brandon and Pop's Birthdays!

2009-10-30T18:58:00.000-07:00

For Brandon/Dean's birthday we went to Pounders Hawaiian Grill. Such good food! Did not get a picture but will definitely be going back! Happy Birthday!

I had to throw in this picture taken outside Bucca di Peppo's for anyone who knows me! There better be a clean bathroom!

For Pop's birthday we went once again to Bucca di Peppo's. It was so fun to go out! Happy birthday Pop's!

San Francisco!

2009-09-30T19:16:00.001-07:00

This last weekend (September 26th -29th) I met an old friend, Jen, in San Francisco. It was so fun to just get away and have some fun!

First thing we did after checking into our hotel was take the Bart (subway) to AT&T Field to watch the Giants play the Chicago Cubs. (Yes I do like baseball and Yes it runs in the family!) I was not big on the subway idea...

It was so fun to be in the stadium and see the amazing ball park! It has been a LONG time since I last saw a Major League Game! (Don't worry...I am still an Angels fan!!)

It was hotter then HOT! We were sitting in the "Microwave Section"!
That night we went down to Ghirardelli Square and ate at a little cafe there. I had clam chowder and was happy! Then I bought lots of CHOCOLATE!!!
Sunday afternoon we headed to see Wicked at the Orpheum Theater. I understood so much more and caught tons of play-on-words that I missed the first time! I guess I was in such awe I missed it the first time! The play was even better then the first time!
Sunday night we went to Fisherman's Wharf for dinner. We ate at an Italian place called Swiss Luis It was very good and had an incredible view of the sun setting behind the Golden Gate Bridge!

Each time we went to the Wharf we took the Cable Cars! They were so cool!

Monday morning we headed down to China Town for a bit. It was so colorful and action packed that I never got a picture!

After we caught a ferry to Alcatraz.

It is definitely a historical site that was interesting. I learned a lot. However it is like the "Road to Hana"...You have to go once but you probably may never go again...

The isolation cell...All the cells were tiny!

The view of the city from Alcatraz! Wow!

That night we ate at Cheesecake Factory and then went back to the hotel to get ready to fly home Tuesday morning. It was a fun-filled trip and it is nice to come home!

Healing Fields!

2009-09-13T19:07:00.000-07:00

Every year since 9-11 Sandy City hosts the Healing Field. It is incredible! Colonial Flag is a local business that puts this together. They FILL the Promenade with American Flags, one for each person lost in 9-11. It is a great reminder of how lucky we are to have FREEDOM!

This morning I had to meet someone early near the Healing Fields and she called after I was there saying she was running late so I took a few minutes to go over and see the Fields. It is something I do every year and had not had a moment to go this year. It was about 8:30am and I was the only one there in the middle of 5,000 flags!

I realized how blessed we are for our freedom and how so many have given their lives to ensure ours are kept safe and free. It was such a peaceful, serene moment as I stood there alone amongst flags that represented lives. And yet they represent so much more...

What a blessing it was to be prompted to take the time and be there to reflect and think in silence. To honor those who have given their lives willingly and unwillingly...

Trip!

2009-09-13T18:57:00.000-07:00

So my Dad went to get dinner one night and return DVD's. He was gone a long time and when he returned he handed me a plate of Puppy Chow. I laughed and asked where dinner was and asked what he was doing with Puppy Chow. His reply was: "It's for the new puppy!" I laughed harder and he stuck to his story.

Soon I was laughing so hard I was crying! Kelsey got scared I was crying because I was mad (Come on, we DO NOT NEED ANOTHER DOG!) She came running aaroung the corner telling me not to cry and be mad. There was a black lab puppy in her arms. Soon I was lauging so hard I was balling! Why? Because who in their right mind would bring ANOTHER DOG into our house!!! We have too many already!

Well needless to say...We have Trip! He is cute and fun. (I know he will grow up and the cuteness will wear off!)

The picture above was taken after my mom called one of the dogs out of the house and trip went runnng! He thought it was play time! He got to the door that had been just shut and decided he was tired. He slept like that for over an hour!

Girls' Weekend in Park City!

2009-08-18T17:48:00.000-07:00

Mom and I decided to spend the weekend in Park City and have a Girls' Weekend. Kelsey was at a horse show and could not make it.

On Sunday morning we went for a walk and found this great view of Park City!
This is the view towards Kimball Junction

The two of us!

Later in the day we took the Tram at Park City Resort to the top of the mountain to hike down. There is an old silver mine up there.

Here is the view from the top of the mountain over Park City

Mom in front of another mine building

Inside the electrical shack

Monday morning we rode the Alpine Slide

It was so fun! (Yes I have flip flops on!)

There is a new mountain coaster we rode

It was awesome! It was a fun relaxing trip! It was so nice to get away and relax and have fun!

BlueBird Cafe!

2009-07-29T18:08:00.000-07:00

On Friday, July 24th Dad and I went to the BlueBird Cafe concert series at Sundance. It is modeled after the BlueBird Cafe in Nashville for Singers/Songwriters. This time they had:

Jessi Alexander (The Climb-Miley Cyrus)

Gary Nicholson (was in "Where The Heart Is" and "Urban Cowboy" as well as others)
Jon Randall (Whiskey Lullaby-Brad Paisley).

It was so fun! There were only about 100 people who attended making it a more initmate setting. As well as it was in the outdoor ampitheater with a beautiful backdrop!

Thanks Dean for the tickets!

Belgian Waffles, Outlet Shopping, Due West & Draper Days!

2009-07-19T18:22:00.000-07:00

On July 18, 2009 Tina and I went to breakfast at Bruges for yummy Belgian Waffles (they are supposed to be the real deal!) Then spent the afternoon shopping at the Park City Outlets. Yes I shopped and had fun!

That night Mom, Dad, and I went to Draper Days to see one of my favorite bands play: Due West! They were awesome! Mom and dad loved it as well. I thought for sure my dad would get bored and wonder off to booths, however, he hung out and had fun. I love the fact that they are a clean, up-and-coming band with amazing music!

Mom and I had fun dancing up by the stage!
Tim Gates, the lead singer, has an incredible voice!

It started to somewhat cool off a bit as well!

All and all it was a fun night to a fun day!

Beautiful Day!

2009-06-24T12:28:00.000-07:00

The other day I was coming home for lunch and had to take a couple pictures of the mounatins! It is so green from the weeks of rain!

The Temple!

2009-06-24T12:23:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, June 13th, 2009 I went through the Draper Temple. My parents joined me as well as Ahma, Joy, and Joan drove up from Califonia to join us, Katie and Christopher came back from New Mexico, and Heather and Adam all where there as well. It was a beautiful day! I appreciated the faimly support and love. Brandon even met us at the Temple afterwards.

Trevor Entered the MTC!

2009-06-24T12:15:00.001-07:00

On June 10th my cousin Trevor entered the Missionary Training Center (MTC) in Provo and will leave for Berlin, Germany soon. We met up with Trevor, his parents, and Adam as well as his friend Matt (who also entered the MTC with Trevor) and his family for brunch at Mimi's before dropping him off. My mom, Kelsey, and I went to brunch with them and Brandon met us at the MTC. As we were getting ready to drive into the MTC we saw tons of missionaries. We kept an eye out for my cousin Eric who is also there but had no luck finding him, though everyone had many moments where we thought we saw him! It will be an exciting 2 years for them!

The Big Reveal!

2009-06-10T19:08:00.000-07:00

I have been keeping a HUGE secret for a LONG time!

Last Saturday I revealed the secret to my parents and thus the World! I had a surprise for them sitting on the counter. This is what they walked into find:

One look and my mom wanted to know why I put mustard on a cake!

I told her to take a better look and that it was not mustard (it was gold frosting). She still did not understand why I put Mustard on a cake!

And then she got it!

She was so excited she proceeded to have me call everyone in her family and if I had to leave a message she yelled in the phone to call back right away it was "AN EMERGENCY!" --Sorry Dale, Karen, Heather, and Kyle!

Any guesses???

Thank you Jana for helping me put this together and for all your wonderful advise! And also for taking some great pictures!

Luau!

2009-06-10T19:02:00.000-07:00

Rose,a friend from work- daughter graduated from high school and so in following their family tradition they had a huge Luau for both her (Chelsea) and her cousin Jayce. It was so fun and great food! After dinner they put on a great show since they are Hula dancers! What a great start to summer!

Race For A Cure!

2009-05-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, May 9th my friend Tina and I did Race For A Cure for Breast Cancer Awareness. It was awesome! It was a 5k (3.2 miles) and 18,000 people were in it! It was amazing to look ahead and behind and see a sea of people. It is definately something I want to do again!

I did it in Memory of 2 friends: Kara and Elizabeth. Tina did it in Celebration of her friends Phyllis and Mary.

Tina and I at the starting line.
A picture of the skyline with the Salt Lake Temple.
The Skyline with the Capitol.
People lining up to start.
Looking back on a sea of people halfway through.
Tina and I after the race in the Gateway. Tina is holding the sign that lined the raceway with her friend, Phyllis's name.

Tina will be sending this sign to her friend who is a survivor!

A Day Off!

2009-05-10T18:29:00.000-07:00

I had the day off Friday because they needed me to work Kidscare Saturday night. I thought it would be great because nobody would be home and I could get some things done. Teach a class, do laundry, clean my bathroom, clean my room, get my car fixed, car wash, fill the gas, and clean the house- to name a few.

Wrong! The car got fixed, there was confusion as to when and where the class I needed t teach was, taught the class--we ran for 45 minutes, work had a problem, car got washed, chased a poor little dog down busy 1300 East (never caught it but don't think it got hit...), went to fll the gas and realized a Yellow Jacket was building a hive inside the gas tank cover (I am sserious--see below!), station attendant was scared of bees and did not want to help me, he the sprayed bug spray to kill the bee on my just washed car, let the dogs out in the wrong places--dogs got out. And that is to just name a few of the things!

All in all... I am better off going to work!

Easter Egg Hunt!

2009-04-20T17:03:00.001-07:00

Throughout the year my mom saves any money she finds in the wash and then does a huge Egg Hunt with the money and gift cards. In years past these hunts have been brutal! This year was way calm! We had all the cousins and spouses, nieces and nephews that live in Utah join us! She has a small hunt for the kids then let everyone else go! It was fun!

The two princesses help hunting for eggs!

Man can those eggs hide!

Whitney checking for eggs!

Allison was so excited to see what she got!

The gardner has not come yet this year so the eggs where VERY well hidden in the grass!

Heather looking so cute!

Kallie loves Aunt Jan!

Everyone waiting to start!

Dale was helping the kids!

Cisco!

2009-04-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Since I spent the weekend dowtown helping with Salt City Internationals, a large karate tournament hosted by our school, I was not home when Cisco arrived. Cisco is our new colt that was born just after 10pm on Friday, April 17, 2009. Oakley the mom tends to have her baby's when nobody is watching. Of course my mom called to tell me the good news about 11pm.

She told me it was a girl and was so excited to finally get a filly. When I talked to her about 40 minutes later she said we had to find a new name because it was really a boy! Guess someone needs to get their eyes checked??? Anyways he is way cute. I took a couple pictures however he likes to stay in the shade!

Easter Sunday!

2009-04-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

This year for Easter we had lunch as a family and did Easter baskets. Brandon's girlfriend- Whitney and Kelsey's boyfriend-Zane joined us. It was fun to just hang out and mom took advantage of the time before dad got home to do all her little games she wanted to do like an egg dying contest... No one plays games with her and it drives her crazy!

We even did an egg hunt for the dogs (Surprised?!?!)

It was Whitneys birthday on April 10th so we also had cake and ice cream for her!

Family Dinner!

2009-01-24T19:37:00.001-08:00

The second Sunday of each month mom has a family dinner for eveyone that is around. Since there are a bunch of cousins that live in Provo, we have a ton to fun together!

Ahma, Abba, & Joy's Visit!

2009-01-24T19:19:00.000-08:00

Everyone in deep conversation Ally loved her ice cream!

Ally loved her Oreo!

Kyle ate something BAD!

Abba and I

I interrupted Dale's concentration on eating!

Mom, Dad, Ahma and Joy

Kyle enjoying his ribs

Ahma, Abba and Uncle Bud

Mom

Joy

Ahma enjoying her shake

Abba and Uncle Bud enjoying a Strawberry Shake

The weekend of January 17th Ahma, Abba, and Joy came to visit. They met the family Saturday night at Brick Oven in Provo for dinner. Dale & Karen and family, Heather and Kyle and family, our family, Katie and Christopher and family, Adam, Trev, and Sandy all came.

Then Sunday mom woke me up from my Sunday nap to go to Heber to visit Uncle Bud. He and Abba were so cute together! It was fun seeing brothers laugh! After we met Dale and Karen's family and Heather and Kyle's family at Famous Daves for dinner. They even sang Happy Birthday to Tawny and Jamie.

2009-01-06T19:02:00.000-08:00

Some of our team members competed at the 2008 World Games in Sacramento for a week. Hanshi-my instructor-took 1st place (World Title) in Choreographed Fighting. Check out what he won with below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qElsP0yX17U

Corum-another blackbelt-took 2nd in 17- Choreographed Fighting

Congrats to Allstar Karate Team Members who all did awesome!

Christmas Eve!

2008-12-31T12:59:00.000-08:00

Every year for Christmas Eve we have dinner at Carvers. It is this great little resturant near us! It is also eveyone's favorite! So in following tradition we once again ate there! After we returned home to open our pajama's and read the Christmas Story. We finished the night with "Candles". It was a very fun and peaceful night!

Our Christmas tree! We all cut back again this year!

Dad and Dean (Brandon)

Kelsey, Mom, Me

The family!

Dean, Mom, Kelsey

Brunch!

2008-12-31T12:54:00.000-08:00

The Sunday before Christmas Brandon had to work. Since part of his job requires he have Brunch in the Foundry Grill (He works at Sundance Ski Resort, what the life!) Dad and I joined him. The Brunch is amazing! There is so much incrediable food and everything is delicious!

It was so fun to spend some time with both Dad and Brandon!

Christmas Letter

2008-12-20T22:01:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas 2008

Merry Christmas to all of our friends and family. I thought we would e-mail our Christmas card to all of you this year. This is a good time to catch you all up on what we have been up to.

Robert started a new job in March with Caffall Tile. He started as project manager and last month was moved up to COO. He has enjoyed this new opportunity and is learning about running this company and has discovered he has great taste in tile. He has been working on the Draper and Oquirrh Temple’s and 2 big condos in Park City. Rob was also called to the High Council in our church. He is giving some great talks in the wards he is over. So far nobody has fallen asleep in church during them. Wherever Rob is you will also find his best friend, Cutter.

Jan is still teaching science at Waterford school and loving every minute of it. She is still training dogs and riding horses. Shaquille, Parker and Cayman keep her busy and out of trouble. Last summer she took them and went to our cabin for a few weeks for a wonderfully relaxing time. That is truly her favorite get-a-way. She was in charge of the Ellsworth Family Reunion, which we had this summer at the cabin. We had a great time together and are looking forward to our next reunion. She is also enjoying her calling as Primary President. Her favorite is being together with her family. She has been able to take some memorable trips down to California to visit her family. One of the kids usually comes along. Life is busy and those moments are her treasures. There is truly never a dull moment in her life.

Krista is still working at the pediatricians at Alta View. She is extremely busy organizing their office and working at the front desk. She always has a good story to tell about a humorous experience she has had. Teaching karate is still a favorite of hers and keeps her busy at night. Krista is enjoying her new calling as Sunday School teacher of the 15 year olds

Brandon is working at Sundance and is the Regional Sales Manager for the state of Utah. What a great job he has at such a beautiful resort. He even gets to go skiing during his lunch breaks. He and some of his friends took a trip up to Washington State and then up into Canada. He had a great time and saw lots of great sights. He loves his bulldog Gus. Their favorite activity is watching football games together.

Kelsey is extremely busy going to SLCC and working toward going to nursing school. She just started a new job with in home care and is learning a lot taking care of people who need help. She is also working up at Alta Hills, working with her favorite love, horses. She is showing both of her horses, King and Cowboy in jumpers classes and getting them ready to go to California next March to show. She always has her little side-kick Annie (her little corgi) by her side. Kelsey is also excited that winter is finally here so she can start skiing again.
We are so grateful for this wonderful Christmas Season, to be able to reflect on what is truly important, the birth of our Savour, Jesus Christ. We hope you all have a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year.

Love,
Rob, Jan, Krista, Brandon, and Kelsey

Angel Statue Memorial!

2008-12-06T20:47:00.000-08:00

For any one who has read The Christmas Box knows of the Angel Statue the grieving mother goes to remember her child. This statue has been recreated and the original is located in the Salt Lake Cemetery. There have been 94 placed around the world and the 100 mark will be met next year. Each year on December 6th-National Children's Day-a memorial is held for families who have lost loved ones, especially children. This year marked the 14th candlelight service. There is always a speaker and a child's lullaby is sung followed by a moment of silence. Then every is invited to leave a flower (they even provide white flowers each year for everyone!) on the statue. We began going 3 years ago and it has been a great tradition and way to remember the twins! "Too pure, too lovely, to live on earth."--joseph smith

Santa Time!

2008-12-06T20:35:00.000-08:00

Every year Santa Clause comes around our neighborhood in a sleigh or wagon! It is so fun! The kids get to sit on his lap and tell him what they want for Christmas and get a treat! He has done this for years! This year my mom and I helped out! I drove ahead with Christmas music blaring from my car with the windows down and honking my horn alerting people that he was coming. My mom rode Parker behind to alert traffic from driving up too fast! We had some special visitors this year come with us for a bit--My cousin Katie and niece--Kallie & My cousin Heather and niece Alison. It was so cute to see the girls with Santa and watch them play together! (They were both having special Mommy-Daughter days!)

Look at the beautiful Draft horses pulling the wagon!

Auntie Jan and Alison on Parker (I am so mad I did not get a pic of Kallie riding!)

3 cousins and 2 daughters with Santa!

Mom's and Daughter's with Santa!

Look at the cute girls!!