Favorite Aunt Kami

2009-11-14T20:56:00.004-07:00

Love life as it is, not as you want it!

The Power of Music

2009-08-15T07:47:00.002-06:00

Fill My Soul With Peace
(Text and music by Rob Gardner)

Lord, wilt thou fill my soul with peace, That pain and sorrow there might cease? Let songs of praise and of glory fill my ear, And may thy holy spirit linger near.

Lord wilt thou fill my heart with love, Oh, That I may see thy realm above? Oh let my soul ever there commune with thee, That I may know what thou wouldst have me be.

Lord, wilt thou purge my soul of doubt? Oh, That with thine angels I may shout Hosannas to thy holy name, And with the saints of old my mansion claim!

Lord, wilt thou fill my soul with peace? That I may soon return to live with thee.

Crazy Idea???

2009-07-25T17:58:00.007-06:00

So, I have been thinking about re-decorating my room for awhile. I didn't really want to spend any money, so I thought, I will just switch bedspreads with the guest bedroom and see if that gives both rooms a new look. Well, it did, but then I was at Costco and found the cutest brown and blue towels...and yes, it lead to a whole new look!

BEFORE...

and... AFTER

Am I crazy...a blue wall??? I was going to paint the wall chocolate brown, but with the brown drapes and the dark bedspread, I didn't want to feel like I was living in a dungeon, so hence the reason for the color blue. I promise that it looks better in person. I would love to hear your comments...good choice...bad choice? Many thanks to my sister Kristi for going shopping to a million different stores...and to my brother Tyler and Sister-in-law Nikki for your fabulous paint job!

Happy 4th of July!!

2009-07-04T01:25:00.001-06:00

My parents came down from Montana to spend the weekend with their 3 children that still reside in the state of Utah vs. the other 4 that live in Arizona, New Hampshire, Virginia and Florida.

On Friday, we had fun spending the day at the Gateway.

Kristi had recently purchased a yearly pass to DiscoveryKids, so we let Addy play their for a while. It actually is a pretty cool place for kids and there is so much for them to do.

The visit to the Gateway would not have been complete if we hadn't let Addy run through the water. She absolutely LOVED every minute!!

We went to lunch and ended the day with an ice-cream cone! Perfect for a hot summer day.

The morning of the fourth of July. Yes, Kristi, you are a nerd for making your family wear matching shirts from Old Navy...he! he!

I don't have any photos, but we also had fun going to movies (i.e., My Sisters Keeper - tear jerker!, The Proposal - loved it!) and having a BBQ and playing games. Yes, of course the momster won at 5 crowns...Jen, where were you to hold your title??? Thanks Mom and Dad for spending the weekend with us!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple

2009-06-11T01:06:00.000-06:00

My mom, sister and niece had the opportunity to go through the Oquirrh Mountain Temple openhouse. The Temple is absolutely beautiful and if you have not had a chance to go through, I would highly recommend it.

I have always had a dream of being married in the Salt Lake Temple, but on this day there was something about this Temple that made me possibly change my mind. Could it be because I was able to watch it be built, that it is basically in my backyard or that I have an awesome view from my house and I love to look out my window each night and see it glowing on the hill? Hmmm...only faith, patience and hope will answer this question.

The joy of a child. Addy, I'm not sure if you will remember this day, since you are only 2 and 1/2, but it was such a great experience to walk through the Temple with you and hear your cute comments, such as..."ooohhh sparkles", pointing to the oxen and saying, "hi, what are you doing down there?"

Tyler & Nikki's Wedding

2009-05-23T23:45:00.000-06:00

My brother Tyler was married on May 23, 2009 in the Draper, Utah Temple. The day was absolutely beautiful.

Who didn't get the "black & white memo"...just teasing mom...you look great!

*WEDDING LUNCHEON*
My sister's and mom (yes, I take no credit) did an amazing job on the wedding luncheon. Way to go girls!

Eclairs, cream puffs, hand dipped strawberries, brownie bites...the dessert table definitely rocked!

Tyler & Nikki's Wedding

2009-05-23T11:30:00.011-06:00

*RECEPTION HIGHLIGHTS*

Jen and Griffyn...you both look so cute!

Abby and Maiya I can't believe how fast you two are growing up. You are such beautiful girls and I love you so much!

Cutting of the cake.

Cache joined right in with all the single guys and so desperately wanted to catch the garter...unfortunately, the kid next to him dove and caught it.

We tried all night to get a great picture of all of the grandkids...this was the best we could do...they simple didn't want to have anything to do with it...even with a bribe of gummy bears from Aunt Marcia!

Do you want to know what the grandkids were doing during the reception? Yep, running down the halls. Addy and Ally...silly girls.

Jaime and Thomas just chillin'

Thomas enjoying a piece of the wedding cake.

This picture says it all. It was long day, but worth every minute. Nikki, you are such a cute girl and we are so glad to have you as part of the family.

Family Pictures

2009-05-22T00:45:00.001-06:00

I am so blessed to have such an incredible family!

The joys of being a Grandparent!

I have this photo in my kitchen and on my desk at work and it truly makes me smile every time I see it. To my siblings...thank you for having such amazing kids and for allowing me to be a part of their lives. I love each of them so much and they bring me such happiness, especially on those days when I am longing for children of my own.

Congratulations to our ASU Graduate!!

2009-05-19T21:46:00.007-06:00

In May my parents and I traveled to Phoenix to attend my brother-in-laws graduation. Tyler was suppose to go, but decided that it wasn't a good idea the week before his wedding.

After we had scheduled our tickets, my sister called and said that they had moved Jason's graduation date because President Obama was coming to speak to all the graduates. We were disappointed. On our flight down we were about to land and then the pilot came on and said we were going to have to circle Phoenix for awhile to clear the air space so that the Airforce One could land. While driving out of the airport, we drove right past Airforce One. I must say, it was pretty cool.

Allison loves her grandpa!

Yes, Ally and I thought we were pretty cool in our shades!

Jason, I am so proud of you on this major accomplishment! Way to go! Thanks Kim and Jason for a fun weekend. Love you!

Happy Birthday...to me!!

2009-04-15T20:47:00.007-06:00

Since I am still single, I am typically not that excited about turning another year older because that means my dating age range increases...now I might consider dating someone who is 40...and holy cow that seems so old to me! Sorry to all of you that are around that age group. Anyway, this year, I had a FABULOUS birthday so I thought I would post some of the highlights.

A few days before, Kristi and Addy took me to dinner and we had fun sharing our favorite dessert...mmm...a blondie from Applebee's.
My incredible, amazing boss/friend took me to lunch...the food wasn't great, but we made up for it by going to ColdStone afterwards...yes, next time we will skip the food and head straight for dessert.
I SOLD my car!! What a fabulous birthday present!
My friend Aymee sent me flowers. I was so surprised when I was standing outside and saw the UPS truck driving up the street...I thought, how cool would it be if he were coming to my house...sure enough the driver jumped out and handed me a package, which contained flowers from Aym. You are the best Aymee!!
My Visiting Teachers/Friends took me out for dessert. At the restaurant they gave me the cutest homemade card (Alli, you are so talented), which had all of these amazing notes inside that they had collected from all my friends in my ward. I read them when I got home and cried because I truly felt so loved. Thank you so much Janelle, Alli, Sara, Allison, Shannon, Liz, Bill...I could not ask for better friends!!
My cute neighbor/friend Jill came over and brought me the cutest gerber daisy plant.
My family all called and wished me a Happy Birthday.

I feel so blessed to have such an amazing family and friends. Thank you to all of you for truly making my day. I love all of you!!

Saturday FUN!!

2009-03-28T21:52:00.009-06:00

Today I met Kristi and Addy at Seagull Book & Tape where they were having a pre-conference sale and the theme was "celebrating the joy of sisterhood." There were a ton of people lined up waiting for the store to open and while we were standing in line, Addy kept pulling my hand saying, "come on Kami..." we walked to the front door and she knocked on the window and kept saying "open, open." Everyone in line laughed and needless to say, she was quite the entertainer. As we entered the store we each received a free game, flower and chocolate...who could ask for anything better!!

Afterwards we went to Gardner Village and took some pictures. It was still a little chilly outside, but it was definitely nice to have the sunshine vs. the snow. Yes, we were freezing in the above picture.

I was practicing the one thing I learned in my recent photography class about lighting and I think this picture turned out amazing!!

Addy truly loves her momma!! Kristi, I think you both look so CUTE in this picture.

Oh, the favorite aunt. I love you Addykake.

After pictures we went to lunch at Red Lobster...yum!! I just happen to have my camera and was glad I could capture the moment of the way Addy stuck her fries in her ketchup.

We then picked up dessert and went to the park, which was Addy's favorite part of the day.

This little girl LOVES the outdoors!

Kristi thought she would lay down and enjoy the sunshine, but everytime she did, Addy would jump on her. What a character! Thanks for the fun day Kristi and Addy. I love spending time with both of you.

FOR SALE!!

2009-02-02T18:39:00.008-07:00

I know this might be a wierd post to some of you, but if you are in the market for a fabulous used car, this is your lucky day!! After nine incredible years, I am deciding to part with my "Black Beauty." If any of you would like to purchase her or know of a great owner, please let me know.

Just the facts...

Year - 2000
Make/Model - Toyota, Camry LE
Mileage - Roughly 105,000 ...my sister owns a 1999 and has over 200,000...you gotta love Toyota's.

Tires - 4 brand new tires were placed on the car 20,000 miles ago and should last another 60,000 miles.
Regular maintenance (i.e., oil changes, etc.) has been performed.

Only one owner and the interior is fabulous!!

Did you miss me???

2009-01-14T21:32:00.002-07:00

Okay, I know, that I have been a complete slacker when it comes to updating my blog. Enjoy the new posts!! Hopefully, I will be a little more up-to-date in 2009. I will be going private, so if you would like to continue viewing my blog, please send me your e-mail address. Thanks to all of you that keep your blogs current. It is fun to see what is happening in your lives.

Christmas in Montana - Part II

2008-12-25T20:30:00.000-07:00

Christmas Morning!!

Cache was so excited to open his presents.

Ally and Abby posing in front of the Christmas Tree.

I have so much LOVE for all my nieces!!

Addy's modeling her new hat that she received from Aunt Jen.

So cute, cute, cute. Great job, Jen!!

Grandpa loves his grand-daughters as well. You gotta love the poses in this picture...nice job girls.

Smoothie Extreme!!

Smoothie, this one is for you...we missed you, Jamie and Thomas and wish that you could have been with us.

The Phoenix crew all bundled up. Yes, Kim had to buy coats, gloves, boots, snowpants, etc. so Abby and Ally could fulfill their dream of playing in the snow and making snow angels.

The nieces and Cache being pulled in the sled.

T-roy and Griffyn all bundled up and ready to play in the snow.

Abby making a snow angel.

Grandpa pulling all the kids in the sled. What a work-out!!

Oh, you only think we are posing for a picture. Hmm...what is behind my back???

Could it be SNOW????

Snowball fight!!! Ha! Ha! I got you Dadster.

What a memorable Christmas!! Thanks everyone for a great Christmas. It was fun to spend time with everyone. Florida and New Hampshire crews we wish that you could have been there...you were definitely missed.

Christmas in Montana - Part I

2008-12-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

Ready, set, brace yourself for a crazy drive to Montana. Tyler and I had fun talking, singing, laughing and praying we weren't going to slide off the road.

Okay, so Tyler was priding himself that he had the BEST windshield wipers ever and that he hasn't had to change them in 2 years. Hey, Ty, I hate to burst your bubble, but I think it is time for some new blades...you might be able to see...but your passenger would like to see as well. :)

Yea! We made it. Welcome to Grandma and Grandpa's House.

Burrr....Montana is COLD!!

Happy Birthday Addy!!

2008-12-18T19:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Princess Addy. It was fun attending your birthday party!!

Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T19:29:00.000-07:00

This year Thanksgiving was at my house. Instead of focusing on the food...thanks mom, it was delicious...I spent all my time and energy trying to impress my guests with a fancy table setting.

So...what do you think? Not too bad for an amateur. I had so much fun decorating the table and can't wait to do it again.

It was a small bunch, but we had a great time.

Thanks Tyler, Nikki, Dad and Mom for making this day wonderful. I am so grateful for an amazing family and for all that I am continually blessed with in my life.

Halloween

2008-10-31T19:19:00.000-06:00

What a cute clown!! Yes, the "baby" has to go everywhere with little miss Addy. This year for Halloween I went with Kristi and Addy trick-or-treating at the Mall. At first Addy didn't really understand the concept, but after visiting a few stores and seeing that all she had to do was hold up her "pumpkin" and say "trick-or-treat" and she would receive CANDY, she caught on very quickly.

Enjoying a sucker for the very first time and having fun throwing pennies into the water fountain.

Pumpkin Time

2008-10-13T18:53:00.000-06:00

For family home evening I went with T-roy, Jen, Cache and Griffyn to the pumpkin patch to pick out a pumpkin. Cache loved being a silly boy posing for pictures in front of the tractor.

Cache played soccer this year and at one his games it was raining and everyone had umbrella's, except him, so for weeks he prayed and prayed that he would be able to get an umbrella. Well, I heard this story and so I said, Cache...I have a surprise for you...he followed me to my trunk and inside was a brand new umbrella that I had recently purchased at a garage sale for .50 cents. Yes, I am STILL the FAVORITE aunt. :) As you can see from the pictures, he would not put it down the entire night.

Don't you just love the "Listerine" umbrella?

Love is in the air...

2008-09-21T20:17:00.006-06:00

Hey family (and those that know Tyler) meet Nikki LittleJohn. Tyler has been holding out on us (I can't imagine why?) and been dating her for a month or two. Tyler and Nikki joined us at Temple Square today and I happen to snap some shots of the two love birds.

Nikki, you are a beautiful girl and it was so much fun to finally meet you. Make sure Tyler treats you like a queen and spoils you rotten. he! he!

What a CUTE family!!

2008-09-21T19:36:00.013-06:00

This evening I met Troy, Jen, Cache, Griffyn, Tyler and Nikki at Temple Square where we had a fun time walking around and taking pictures. The weather was perfect and I loved spending time with my siblings. Thanks to all!!

Every time I see the Salt Lake Temple I am simply amazed by its beauty. I am so thankful for the early Saints and everything that they sacrificed so that we might be able to enjoy this holy place.

What a cute little family.

Griffyn...you are simply too CUTE.

I LOVE this picture.

My buddy...Cache, it was so much fun spending time with you.

Simply too irresistable for a 3-year-old little boy!

Thanks for being such a great friend and sister, Jen.

Yes, this was Cache's reward for being good and smiling!!

P.S. - Jen, there are so many other cute pictures. I will definitely make you a CD.

So much fun...Really!

2008-09-20T13:56:00.002-06:00

Okay, so normally this is not something that I would blog about, but I had so much fun at my "Relief Society Super Saturday" that I thought I would share with you the fun things that I made.

Are these not the cute magnets!!

Beautiful picture of Christ with "The Living Christ" in front. I used this as part of the table decorations for my R.S. lesson on Sunday and it was the perfect touch.

File folder games...Abby, I am sending these your way to help you get ready for kindergarten.

PVC pipe??? Little kids hold these "telephones" to their ear and talk into them when they are learning to read and it helps them to enunciate the words better. Addy has already tried one and she LOVED it so much that she would not put it down.

It was another success with Cache (nephew) too!! At first he wasn't sure what it was all about, but once he tried it, he was hooked. Cache, your such a character...

Yes, some of my friends in my ward were laughing at how many projects I signed up to do, but hey, for the most part I finished all but one (file folder games)...great success!! Not only were the projects fun to do, but it was fun to get to know my neighbors a little better.

Beautiful in Everyway...

2008-09-19T20:05:00.008-06:00

Today, Sept. 19, 2008, my cute friend and co-worker, Kim was married.

Kim, your wedding ceremony and reception were absolutely beautiful in every way...just like you. Thank you so much for inviting me. I loved seeing how happy you were the entire day...and I hope that this happiness will continue throughout your marriage. You are such an incredible person and I am so glad that we are friends. Have a blast on your honeymoon!!

The Boy's cake...

and the girls cake...so cute!!

My niece (Addy) couldn't resist playing with all those John Deer "toys".

Now this is a kid who loves chocolate...especially M&M's. Without any prompting, when we sat down at the table for refreshments, Addy stood up on the chair and helped herself to the "edible" centerpieces.

Kim, I loved the cheesecake; however, it appears that your centerpieces were much more appetizing to my niece. Thanks for sharing.

Oh, is your Summer Break Over??

2008-09-07T20:54:00.013-06:00

A few weeks ago before school started, Kristi made the comment that I had never been to her school. I decided to be a nice older sister and check out what she has been talking about for the last few years and boy was I simply AMAZED!! If you want to know where all our tax dollars went...keep on viewing.

Welcome to Sunset Ridge Middle School!!

This school has tons of quotes all through out. I loved the entry way which states, "Every worthwhile accomplishment, big or little, has its stages of drudgery and triumph; a beginning, a struggle, and a victory" -Gandhi

Can you only imagine in a few short years. Gangster Addy...he! he!

Mrs. Johnson's computer lab.

Mrs. Johnson's Foods Lab.

Mrs. Johnson's Sewing Lab.

Little miss Addy, hanging out in the big poof chair, which I am sure Kristi relaxes in while her students are hard at work.

Ahhh...the life of Mrs. Johnson.

Good luck with School this year Kristi!! It was fun to see your school. You are an amazing teacher and I know the kids are learning a ton from you.

Hawaii

2008-09-07T20:01:00.014-06:00

Ko Olina Beach

Sunset at Ko Olina Beach.

More beautifulness!!

On our hike to Waimea Falls. Such cute boys!!

Amazing flowers...isn't this the coolest picture.

Don't you wish we had these flowers in Utah?

Sea Turtles...so cool!!

Ahhh...the life of a sea turtle...to hang out at the beach all day.

More beautiful scenary.

Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay...so much fun!!

Thanks Lauren & Ramie for your amazing hospitality. Lauren you were an awesome tour guide and it was fun to see you and how much your boys have grown.

Thanks for the invite Ellen and as I promised...no incriminating photos were placed on this blog.

Future in Photography?

2008-07-20T19:07:00.012-06:00

The other day, I decided to pull out my camera and see if I could take some "professional" shots. See below and let me know if you think I should "quit my day job." He! He! I know this will only be a hobby for me.

Adeline, you are such a poser...you truly are a Johnson. If any of you would like to volunteer your kids to be photographed, let me know. I need to save my $$, but the next thing I would like to do is to purchase photoshop or even a Mac computer...as I hear they are the best for photography.

Griffyn's Baby Blessing

2008-05-11T20:59:00.008-06:00

Today, Troy blessed his beautiful daughter Griffyn LeAnn.

What a cute Dad...

and a cute mom...

and a CUTE FAMILY!!

Griffyn, as was mentioned in your blessing, always remember how much your grandma's, grandpa's, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc. love you and will be here to support you. You are such a sweet baby and a blessing to your parents and we are so glad to have you in our family.

Florida - Last Day

2008-05-10T20:39:00.002-06:00

As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end...

Memories of Florida:

1) Maiya, where do Grandpa and Grandma live? "Hannah, Montana...nope it's Helena, Montana...no its Hannah Montana."

2) One night Maiya said to Grandma, "Grandma, you can have water and I will have a diet Coke."

3) Playing games such as good choice/bad choice, eye spy with my little eye, quiet game, etc. with Maiya.

4) Hailey's beautiful smile.

Thanks Todd, Kendra, Maiya and Hailey for sharing your home and spending the week with us. We had so much fun and can't wait to come back.

Florida - Day Seven

2008-05-09T09:16:00.001-06:00

Little Miss Poser...yes, Maiya had her sunglasses and was ready to have another fun-filled day.

Welcome to Animal Kingdom!!

This is a picture of the huge tree of life. It was amazing.

Enjoying the safari ride.

Animals on the safari ride. Well, you might think this is an odd picture to end with, but this is where the camera battery died. We tried to use Todd's camera, but his battery died as well. Just our luck!! We could tell we were at the end of our trip.

I think the Animal Kingdom was the favorite park of the week. We had so much FUN enjoying the Lion King and Finding Nemo shows, eating lunch, eating ice-cream, dancing to the drums and just simply enjoying the beautiful weather.

Florida - Day Six

2008-05-08T09:08:00.001-06:00

At Maiya's pre-school they had a special Mother's Day presentation. It was so cute because Maiya would go around and say, "only Mom's, Grandma's and Aunts are invited and no Dad's or Grandpa's."

Maiya and Mrs. Kerri reading the special place mat that they created for Kendra.

The little presentation included muffins and juice.

Just above Maiya's head is a picture that she colored of her mom (Kendra). Great job Maiya.

I love this picture. Happy Mother's Day Kendra!! You and Todd are so blessed to have such amazing little girls.

Welcome to the Magic Kingdom and the crowds of people!!

Enjoying the teacups.

Maiya relaxing...actually posing...in Minnie's House.

Hailey was a trooper the entire week. She is such a great baby. Todd was also amazing for watching her and allowing us to go on the majority of the rides.

Getting ready to go on the ride "It's a Small World."

We only stayed a few hours at the Magic Kingdom because it was HOT and too CROWDED. We all agreed that this was our least favorite park to visit.

Florida - Day Five

2008-05-07T09:06:00.000-06:00

After two days at the parks, we decided to take a day off and just relax and go shopping. Yes, these are two of my favorite things to do. We went to downtown disney and were able to find some cute things. Our favorite store, of course, was the Ghiradelli chocolate store because they gave free samples. Mmmm...

Maiya wanted to be just like Aunt Kami and Grandma and have a purse, so we bought her a cute Minnie Mouse purse.

Florida - Day Four

2008-05-06T08:49:00.000-06:00

Maiya had school and Kendra had work, so for the first 1/2 half of the day we enjoyed spending time with Todd and Hailey.

Todd and Kendra are surrounded by orange trees and they have a fruit/vegetable stand a few blocks from their house, so Dad decided to have some fun and go pick some oranges.

Getting lathered up with sunscreen for our big day at Studios (formerly known as MGM).

Maiya, just before going on HollyWood Tower of Terror. Kendra said she just had to try it once and if she didn't like it, she didn't have to go again until she was 8. Looks like Maiya won't be trying this ride for another 4 years.

Just outside the Rockin' RollerCoaster. Yes, our brains were spinning after riding this ride and I don't think I will be riding it again...sorry, Kendra...but hey, atleast I tried it, right.

We enjoyed watching the production of Beauty and the Beast.

Grandpa bought Maiya a Minnie Mouse Belle...she LOVES it and has taken it everywhere with her.

Maiya...you are so goofy!! We had fun trying on all of the different hats.

Pirate Maiya.

Even Hailey got into the action.

Another fun-filled day!! And yes, we can't wait to go back.

Florida - Day Three

2008-05-05T08:22:00.021-06:00

WELCOME to EPCOT!!

My hair and humidity do not mix very well.

Maiya had fun visiting the butterfly farm.

The flower gardens were amazing.

Welcome to CLUB COOL. This was a fun shop where you could try all of the different kind of Coke around the world. My favorite was Costa Rica.

Cheers!!

Mmmm....cherry coke!!

Oh Canada, Oh Canada.

While in France we went in different perfume shops and were able to smell some awesome fragrances.

Of course, leave it to me to pick out the treats. Yes, we bought two of these giant rice crispy treats.

Princess Maiya and Snow White. Maiya looked so CUTE in her Cinderalla dress.

Princess Maiya and Belle.

Character dining...Maiya and Aurora.

Yes, the Dadster thought he needed to have his picture taken with Jasmine.

We enjoyed dining with the princesses and a fabulous Norweigian meal. Thanks Todd and Kendra for introducing us to this restaurant.

Epcot has a new ride called "Test Track" During the ride they do all sorts of things to test the safety of your car (i.e., anti-lock brakes vs. regular brakes, etc.). At first Maiya was scared to go on the ride, but when it was finished she ran back to her Dad, who was waiting with Hailey and said, "Dad, that ride was AWESOME!!

After the ride you can check out all of these cool cars. Yes, this was a convertible saab...only in my dreams would I own this car.

I just had to include this picture. After Test Track we played a game at the "fire house". The goal of the game is to compete with another team to see who can put out all of the fires in the house. Well, the "Johnson" team ended up losing and needless to say, Maiya does not like losing so she cried and cried because she wanted to win. Todd and Kendra are trying to teach her how to be a graceful loser and that sometimes all you can do is give it your best.

We had a blast visiting Epcot and can't wait to go back and see those things that we were not able to see.

Florida - Day One and Two

2008-05-03T08:08:00.002-06:00

DAY ONE was spent traveling. We had a 2-hr delay in SLC because our arriving plane was delayed and before arriving it hit a bird, so they had to make sure there were no mechanical problems. We finally made it to Todd and Kendra's house at 12:30 in the morning!! Yes, from start to finish it took over 13 hours...I guess it beats driving.

DAY TWO we attended church, enjoyed relaxing at Todd and Kendra's beautiful home and taking a walk around their neighborhood.

A New Do

2008-04-15T21:52:00.002-06:00

Kristi...before her haircut.

Marcey is in my ward and has the cutest salon in her home.

Kristi holding her 10-inches of hair that she is going to donate to "locks of love."

Wow...what a cutey!! Kristi, I love your new hair-do. Now, the next step is to help you learn to use a round brush...he! he!

MS Walk

2008-04-12T21:11:00.011-06:00

There are certain people that come into your life and you know that they were sent for a reason. On this beautiful spring morning, Debby, Kristi, Adeline and I were able to support Ellen and her family in the annual MS Walk.

Go Northern Star Team!!

Is this not the cutest picture? The love that Ellen has for her grandkids is simply amazing.

Yes, I was picture happy...okay, I am putting the camera away.

Kristi and Adeline admiring their medals.

Debby is an awesome co-worker and friend.

Yea!! You made it!! In the 8 years that I have known Ellen I have never not known her not to finish a "race." She is an amazing example of perserverance and I have hope that things will work out for the best. Thanks ellen for your incredible example, love and support.

Family

2008-03-28T19:15:00.016-06:00

Thanks to a big surprise from Travis and Jamie we were able to have the entire family together for Grandpa's funeral. Although it was a little crazy and noisy we enjoyed spending time with each other.

Kim, Kami and Kristi...sisters forever!!

Todd, Kendra, Maiya and Hailey (Florida Family)

Kim, Jason, Abby and Ally (Phoenix Family)

Troy, Jen, Cache and Griffyn. (Murray Family)

Travis, Jamie and Thomas. (NewHampshire Family)

Kristi, David and Adeline. (South Jordan Family)

Grandpa and Grandma with all 8 of their grandchildren.

Maiya (4), Ally (2), Hailey (8wks), Adeline (15months), Griffyn (2.5wks), Cache (3), Thomas (1), Abby (4).

The entire Johnson Clan...yes, we are all a little nutty, but we have fun together. I am truly grateful to belong to such a great family. I love you all!!

Grandpa Nielsen's Funeral

2008-03-25T11:00:00.001-06:00

In Loving Memory: Grandpa Nielsen

2008-03-21T10:02:00.007-06:00

Today (March 21, 2008) one of my true hero's in life passed away. Grandpa had an amazing love for his family and considered his posterity (7 children, 45 grandchildren, 109 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild) his most valued possession. He taught me the importance of missionary, geneology, temple work and much, much more.

I am so grateful that 12 days before his passing I was able to spend time with him. On arriving at his bedside, he looked at me and said, "do you have a boyfriend?" I couldn't believe at 94 he still remembered what was going on in my life. I said, "no" and he said, "you continue to live a righteous life and increase your Temple attendance and you will find a husband." As tears rolled down my cheeks I told him I would put these words of wisdom to the test.
Grandpa made such a positive impact on so many lives and will definitely be missed. I love you Grandpa and am so excited that you are reunited with Grandma and your other loved ones.

Home Improvement Projects

2008-03-08T20:17:00.012-07:00

YEA!! Mom's in town, which means she can help Kami with all of her projects that require two people!!

It only took us 2-hours to put this thing together. Words of advice: 1) when you purchase an item on clearance make sure nothing is wrong with it. 2) metal bed frames are difficult to put together.

Believe it or not I was running out of storage room, so I decided to put shelves in my garage. I love them!! Now, I have room in my house for my food storage. Thanks mom for all of your help...I could not have done these projects without you. You are the best!! I love you!!

Announcing: Griffyn LeAnn Johnson

2008-03-06T18:22:00.008-07:00

Baby Griffyn was born on March 6, 2008 at 6:22 p.m. She weighed 8 lbs 9 oz and was 20 inches. She is so CUTE and has lots of hair.

T-roy was able to help deliver Griffyn. Way to go T-roy...you are going to make a fabulous doctor. Jen, how do you look so amazing after just giving birth??I was able to see and hold Griffyn 20 minutes after she was born...my reward for entertaining Cache while his parents were pre-occupied.

Home from the Hospital...two days old and still cute, cute, cute. We are so glad you joined our family.

In Loving Memory: Grandpa Johnson

2008-03-06T16:00:00.004-07:00

Today (March 6, 2008) Grandpa Johnson passed away. Although I can only count on two hands the number of times I was able to spend with Grandpa, I have fond memories of him. One of my most vivid memories was when we took a family trip to YellowStone and we stopped in Harlem to see Grandpa's ranch and ride horses. As we were leaving Grandpa slipped me a $20.00 bill (to a 12-year old this was a lot of $$) and told me to buy everyone ice cream. So cool!!

I also remember attending a family reunion and Grandpa pulled out a little white box, which contained a pair of horse-shoe turquoise earings. He knew how much I loved having my ears pierced!! Grandpa always told me how beautiful I was and made me feel so special. Thank you Grandpa, I will miss you.

A memorial service is currently scheduled for May 10th.

Ward Divided and a True Hero

2008-02-03T14:20:00.000-07:00

This morning Kristi and David were driving to my house to pick up Adeline, since she slept over last night and I received a phone call from Kristi saying, "were stuck and we need to use your snow shovel." I looked out my window and could not believe the amount of snow we received. My guess would be over two feet!! I do not own a snow shovel, so I called my neighbor Jeff and he immediately said, don't worry, I will be over in a minute. He was able to help Kristi as well as two other individuals who were stuck and then offered me a ride to Stake Conference.

Jeff and Hollie just recently traded in their Toyota 4-runner for a Honda Pilot and Jeff was having a blast driving through all the deep snow to Stake Conference. Hollie was holding on for dear life and I was thinking how do I get one of these vehicles??

At the end of Stake Conference they displayed maps that showed the new ward boundaries for everyone. My ward and another ward were split (this is the 2nd time) to create a total of 14 wards in the stake. I am still in the Legacy Ranch Ward and will continue to meet at 9:00 a.m. (yea!!), but will now be meeting in the really old church building on 60th West. It is always a bitter sweet feeling when a ward is split because you will miss those that will not be in the ward anymore; however, you will be able to become closer with your new ward because the numbers are smaller.

After church, Jeff continued to be a hero as he shoveled a widow's driveway, helped get the pizza delivery man's car unstuck...yes, I helped by driving the car as the guys pushed, and then he helped me shovel my driveway. Way to go Jeff...you're the man today!!

It is truly a blessing to have such great neighbors and friends.

President Gordon B. Hinckley

2008-02-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

"May the Spirit of our Lord accompany us and remain with us. We know not what lies ahead of us. We know not what the coming days will bring. We live in a world of uncertainty. For some, there will be great accomplishments. For others, disappointment. For some, much of rejoicing and gladness, good health, and gracious living. For others, perhaps sickness and a measure of sorrow. We do not know. But one thing we do know. Like the polar star in the heavens, regardless of what the future holds, there stands the Redeemer of the world, the Son of God, certain and sure as the anchor of our immortal lives. He is the rock of our salvation, our strength, our comfort, the very focus of our faith" (Gordon B. Hinckley, Ensign, May 2002, 90).

I am so thankful for the opportunity that I had to attend President Hinckley's funeral at the Conference Center today. Ellen and Richard, thank you so much for the tickets. There was an incredible spirit that was felt during these services. I am so appreciative of the life that President Hinckley led and for his amazing sense of humor and compassion to all. I left the funeral wanting to be a better person and serve others the way that he did.

Yes, I was on a date. Now, I know you are probably thinking, who takes a date to a funeral? I will admit it was my crazy idea, but in the end in turned out to be a wonderful day. Plus, it was definitely better than IHOP (inside joke).

Joe and I laughed, cried, cried some more and enjoyed a wonderful lunch at the Garden Restaurant. Although I have only known Joe for a few hours, I can already tell that he is an amazing person. Everyone, cross your fingers for a second date!!

Girls Night Out

2008-01-31T20:19:00.000-07:00

Marcie and I haven't seen each other in a while...well, actually we saw each other a few months ago when she cleaned my teeth; however, it's hard to have a conversation when someone has instruments in your mouth, so we decided to have a "girls night out" while Jake (Marcie's husband) was in school tonight. Sorry, Jake, you missed out on a fun party.

Thayne joined us as well and what a good little boy he was, especially for only being 2. Marcie, you are such a cute mom!!We kept Thayne busy by having him count the coasters...1, 2, 3...great job, can you count them again? Marcie, thanks so much for a fun night. We will definitely have to get together more often. Thanks for always making me laugh and for being a true friend.

A Trip to the Mall with Adeline

2008-01-26T22:42:00.000-07:00

Kristi, Adeline and I typically run errands on Saturdays. We have a lot of fun and Adeline does really well; however, Adeline learned to walk on her own a few days ago... and now, I think the days of her sitting nicely in a stroller are over as she has a similar personality of her cousin Abby and simply wants to run, fall down, jump up, run, fall down, jump up and run some more.

It is really cute, but exhausting for one aunt who now realizes just how out of shape she really is. Sorry about the video being taken vertical vs. horizontal.We had fun playing at the dinosaur playground while Kristi was trying on clothes.And in the end, we all left the mall ready for a long NAP. Thanks Kristi and Adeline for a fun day.

Sunday Night Baking

2008-01-20T18:02:00.000-07:00

Ready, set...BAKE!! Yes, everyone, Jen (and Cache) inspired me to bake!! I know, you can't believe it, but it is true...I have now used my oven for the 4th time since I moved into my house...which was over two years ago. Crazy, I know.

If you would like this recipe (Molten Chocolate Surprise), please visit Jen's blog. You can also see what a pro Cache is at making this dessert as well. Thanks Jen and Cache...I love you both!!