Merry Christmas One and All!!

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I am planning on having one myself!

I just wanted to write a little about this year so far, 2008. Some of my favorite memories from this year are:

1. Grand Canyon. Our first official trip with Sarah Marie. How could I forget the long drive to Arizona with a little 8 month old?! Sarah took the drive pretty well considering. She didn’t, however, like to be alone in the back seat of the car, so either Jordan or I had to ride in the back with her. As soon as we got to the Grand Canyon Sarah was better, mostly because she was out of the car! Perhaps she gets claustrophobic like Nana…? Justin and Lindsey met us there the following day and they we were off to explore the Canyon. It was beautiful there, flowers were in bloom, the weather was nice (although the wind blew often), and the sun was out. A complete change from SLC that still had snow on the ground! We didn’t explore down into the Canyon, I was afraid to take a baby down on the steep, narrow trails, but we did see every lookout point we could. My favorite moment of the trip: Sarah falling asleep in her backpack and snoring!! Cutest moment ever!!

2. Cottonwood! How could I possible not mention the most wonderful place in the world?! Sarah’s very first trip to heaven on earth. The weather was perfect for doing pretty much anything! 4-wheeling, hiking, and we can’t forget fishing! Luckily Nana watched Sarah Marie while Jordan and I fished, but Sarah did join me a few times. I am a fish-aholic—mom’s word. Sarah took a ride on the toonee with Nana, Dada, Mama, Auntie Liz, and Cousin Abby. It was great fun. When Sarah spent time in the cabin it didn’t take her long to find the stairs either. That little munchkin just wanted to climb! Do I have a mountain climber on my hands?! Sarah also tried her first bite of fish. She didn’t eat a lot, in fact only a bite, but she did eat it! Yeah for Sarah! Later on the trip we hiked to Dead Lake (Slide Lake is the official name). Sarah enjoyed sitting behind Dada and eating cookies. Her face was messy, her clothes were messy, but she was as cute as ever when she fell asleep with caked on cookie all over her chubby cheeks! What a moment to remember!! Not to mention, this trip was also Sarah’s first 4-wheeling ride with Dada! Yeah!!

3. Bear Lake. Second place on earth to be!! Sarah only had 3 or trips there this year, but all were a blast! We spent Memorial weekend at the lake, only to be frozen stiff!!, but it was great fun. We played on the swings and cards inside. We later went again in June and spent a fun weekend at the beach with the family and Daisy Mae. Daisy loves, repeat, loves the water!! I can’t get my dog out!! Daisy played fetch, dragged in anything she possibly could, wanted to ride in the boat (which she couldn’t), and followed us everywhere we went. Sarah enjoyed playing on the sandy beach, tasting a few seashells and rocks here and there, and playing with cousin Abby. For Sarah’s 1st birthday we went to Bear Lake with Nana, Bompa, Uncle Jon, Auntie Roo, Auntie Liz, Abby, Uncle Mike, Uncle Adam, Auntie Roo, James and Martha (Jordan’s cousin and wife), Phillip, Luke, and Lindy (their kids), Grandma Resch, and Great-Grandma Opal, Uncle Robert, and Auntie Anna, Meghann and Richard, and of course Mommy..whew…I think that is all who came!! We played on the beach all day, I made an under the sea cake, we had a piñata, presents, cake, and Bompa’s famous homemade icecream!! It was a beautiful day and everyone had fun playing in the sun. This is bound to become a tradition!!

4. Sarah’s first steps. Wow, that was a doozy! I never thought Sarah would all of the sudden stand up and start walking! We were at Great-Grandma and Grandpa Harris’ home playing with cousin Colin (my cousin Nicole’s son) and Sarah decided right then and there she was going to walk from the couch to the coffee table. I was watching Sarah and Colin play while lying on the ground and I turned around to see what Sarah was doing and walla! she was taking her very first steps!!! I freaked out and she fell on her bottom, but I scooped her up and kissed her, congratulated her for walking, and set her back down to see her take another 7 steps or so!! Yeah for my little achiever!

5. Sarah’s first two-word sentence. Sarah spoke her first two words together in October. One Saturday morning I woke up, changed Sarah for the day, and set her down to put on some socks. Daisy came walking in her room and Sarah squealed with excitement since she loves Daisy Mae to death, and said “Doggy-doggy!” I smiled and motioned for Daisy to join us. I patted Daisy on the head and Sarah followed suit, and added in “Good dog! Good dog!” My mouth dropped open and I stared at her in wonder and then added, “Yes, Sarah. Daisy is a good dog…most of the time.” We all know Daisy has a little devil in her that tells her to be naughty, but overall my beast is a great dog and takes care of Sarah too (or so she thinks by licking Sarah’s face that it is really cleaning her up and doing me the favor.) But, what other dog would allow a little baby-potential-monster climb on her back and ride her like a horse?! Sarah was right; Daisy is a good dog.

6. George. Sarah’s favorite stuffed animal Nana gave her while Jordan and I were on the deer hunt. Sarah clings to that monkey like her life depended upon him. He is her security blanket, so to speak, and she holds on to him for hours while we drive up to Nana and Bompa’s home in Logan. Even when she is hungry in the car she doesn’t drop George to eat with both hands. George is her little lovie! Heaven forbid we lost him, I wouldn’t know what Sarah would do without him!!

7. Stuffed animal kisses and nothing for Mommy or Daddy! Sarah loves animals. It doesn’t matter if they are t-rex or a tame lamb. Every animal toy she sees, and sometimes live ones as well, gets kisses and hugs from Sarah. Mommy and Daddy though, well, we get nothing. So, Jordan and I have resolved to “steal” kisses from Sarah. She’s too little to tell us no, so we pick her up and smother her with kisses! Her chubby cheeks need just as many kisses as the stuffed animals do!! Needless to say, Daisy Mae gets more kisses from Sarah than I do!! I think I just may be a little jealous!

8. Stake Musical. A project a year in the making has finally come to pass! Yeah!! I wrote the script and came up with a story line about accepting others for who they are and not changing who you are to be accepted. I incorporated songs from different musicals into the script, changed lyrics here and there with Anna’s help, and presto!...we had a start. Little did Anna and I know this was only the beginning. We sought approval from the Stake Presidency and 4 months later we heard back from them with an astounding “yes, let’s do this!”. Anna and I are still ecstatic that something we created is in the works and others are just as excited to do the show are we are! We have a cast and now we have a lot of practicing ahead of us.

9. My book. Yes, that is right, I wrote a book. I started the book when I was pregnant with Sarah Marie. I had this vivid dream one night about two sisters, who had complete and utter respect for each other, but were sister’s nonetheless, who lived in the small town (or valley) of Star Valley, WY. Set at Cottonwood. Go figure I could write a book about two sisters, who in the dream resembled Becca and me quite well, who one wanted out and the other wanted to stay put forever. This dream was so vivid, it lead to me writing a book based on it. It is a science-fiction young adult book. Aunt Nola, bless her heart, helped me edit the book. Anna, bless her hear too, read the book five times over or more and helped me clear the story line as I went, edit, and give me advice. I also love hearing her speculations as well!! Now I am in the process of finding a literary agent who likes my book enough to see it get published. The industry is harsh, finicky, and tough, but I really believe my book as something special about it and has a lesson for everyone to learn (not that I am biased or anything).

10. Jon left on his mission. My little Jonny-boy brother graduated High School and moved on quickly to leaving on his mission. Wow, time flies! Jon was dropped off at the MTC October 22nd preparing to learn a new language (Cebuano). Jon left for the Philippines the Saturday before Christmas and is now in Carcar, Cebu, Philippines. He loves the people, is embracing their culture, and says “he is a babe-magnet” because he is blonde and blue-eyed. We learned before his mission that fair skinned, blonde, and blue-eyed people were the most desirable in the Philippines. So, I think Jon just may be running away from girls on his mission and not the other way around. Jon, however, is a pretty darn good looking blonde if you ask me. It must run in the family.

11. Aiden. My older sister Liz welcomed her second born, Aiden Robert Kempe. He was born July 23rd, 2008 at 11pm or so. He was born a little sick, but after staying in the hospital for a week he was ready to come home. I went and visited her then, a week later, and Sarah and I met Aiden for the first time! He is so cute, and still is! Liz loves repeating my famous words, “You better watch out Liz, Aiden is eye candy!” Needless to say, my words are still ringing true today. Aiden is going to be a little football star and Mike couldn’t be more proud.

12. Christmas. This was Sarah’s second Christmas, but one she actually could open all the presents by herself. Although, she was going really slow so I had to step in and help. Sarah got all her clothes from Auntie Liz (I am grateful for hand-me-downs!!) so Sarah had a Christmas full of toys and movies. Santa brought her a rocking horse, that gallops, neh’s, and moves his head. Sarah loves rocking on him. Nana and Bompa got Sarah a 4-wheeler! Yeah!! Now she can keep up with Daddy. I got clothes, a new purse, and had family surround me (which is all I really ever needed). Jordan got a new car stereo because his pooped out a while ago. It was a great Christmas spent with family and friends. Sarah even went sledding for the first time! Bompa, Nana (who stayed in the car), Auntie Roo, Chubbs (Becca’s dog), Daisy Mae, Daddy, and I were all there to witness Sarah’s first sled ride down the mountain side. We didn’t stay long, but the time we were there was worth it.

As you can tell, we had a wonderful year filled with great memories. Sarah has grown from a baby into a full blown toddler. I love my little girl and husband so much and thank the Lord every day that they are here to share my life with me. What better gift could I have than my family forever? I firmly believe it is nothing. God bless everyone and I hope you too have had many happy memories through this year and I wish everyone the best in 2009.

Sarah meets Santa

Sarah met Santa last night at Jordan's work party. She didn't scream or cry, more just stared. She's so cute with her big blue eyes!! Who could resist giving her what she asked for (via mommy of course). Sarah wants a rocking horse, so hopefully Santa brings it for her! One that she can grow into as well so Sarah stops riding Daisy around like horse.

I had my work party this last Saturday at Lamb's Grill and Cafe downtown. It was wonderful! The atmosphere was great, the food was great, and everything was just nice. Recommend for a perfect date night out, or if you are in charge of coordinate work parties like me, perfect place to go!!

Temple Square Lights

Last night Jordan, Sarah and I went to see the lights at Temple Square. They were absolutely beautiful! Sarah loved looking at all the lights! She was reaching out to them, waving at people she didn’t know, and being as cute as cute can be. This year they put a resin nativity scene on the reflection pool! Can you believe it? It is so cool, I had to take a picture!

Sarah was bundled up warm, of course, because it is so stinking cold here! She looked so cute in her pink hat and pink mittens. Everyone was whispering how cute she was as we walked past them. But who wouldn’t?! Look at what a cute little white Eskimo she is!!

Sarah has also found her pook-a-newy (belly-button)!! It is so cute! She will lift her shirt up and "beep" her own pook-a-newy! It is so adorable! I caught some on video, but she wasn't into it once I got my camera out (go figure!!). So, it is a cute feed, but it takes some egging on for her to "beep" herself.

*Twas the month before Christmas*
*When all through our land,*
*Not a Christian was praying*
*Nor taking a stand.*
*See the PC Police had taken away,*
*The reason for Christmas - no one could say.*
*The children were told by their schools not to sing,*
*About Shepherds and Wise Men and Angels and things.*
*It might hurt people's feelings, the teachers would say*
* December 25th is just a ' Holiday '.*
*Yet the shoppers were ready with cash, checks and credit*
*Pushing folks down to the floor just to get it!*
*CDs from Madonna, an X BOX, an I-pod*
*Something was changing, something quite odd! *
*Retailers promoted Ramadan and Kwanzaa*
*In hopes to sell books by Franken & Fonda.*
*As Targets were hanging their trees upside down*
* At Lowe's the word Christmas - was no where to be found.*
*At K-Mart and Staples and Penny's and Sears*
*You won't hear the word Christmas; it won't touch your ears.*
*Inclusive, sensitive, Di-ver-si-ty*
*Are words that were used to intimidate me.*
*Now Daschle, Now Darden, Now Sharpton, Wolf Blitzen*
*On Boxer, on Rather, on Kerry, on Clinton !*
*At the top of the Senate, there arose such a clatter*
*To eliminate Jesus, in all public matter.*
*And we spoke not a word, as they took away our faith*
* Forbidden to speak of salvation and grace*
*The true Gift of Christmas was exchanged and discarded*
*The reason for the season, stopped before it started.*
*So as you celebrate 'Winter Break' under your 'Dream Tree'*
*Sipping your Starbucks, listen to me.*
*Choose your words carefully, choose what you say*
*Shout MERRY CHRISTMAS ,
not Happy Holiday !*
Please, all Christians join together and
wish everyone you meet
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Christ is The Reason' for the Christ-mas Season!

Haircut....Short!!

So, I got a haircut today on my lunch break. I told her not to cut it shorter than my shoulders, but to style it differently than what it was because I felt like I needed to pull out of the "high school" style (really long and kinda blah!). So, I said go for it and I wouldn't be mad. I'm not mad, or sad, or anything really right now. Just kind of numb. But, I do like it. And my hair grows back really fast, so no frets, if I end up night liking it I will grow my hair out again. So, here's what it looks like!

"Fa-la-la-lah, la-lah, la-lah!"

Ok, so that was an odd attempt at trying to convey singing in the title of this post. All well, I tried. I am so excited for Christmas!

Okay, so looking at the sweet innocent face of Sarah Marie you'd think she was a good little baby. Well, she is most of the time...

Sarah is already being a stinker-roo and trying to open her gifts. I haven't placed them under the tree, in fear I'd come home to scraps of paper everywhere and Anna dead underneath the wrapping paper, so I've hidden the gifts in a room Sarah's not allowed in. However, last night I had some youth over to practice for the musical and Sarah conveniently found the gifts and wanted to open each and every one of them. Well, she's a cute stinker that's for sure. Christmas this year will be exciting, especially because Sarah gets the whole "rip and shred" concept of wrapping paper.

Oh, I also joined Facebook after much prodding from some friends, so you can find me there as well under Natalie Resch.

Christmas Tree Decorating

Finally, some pictures! I love my new camera, it is so cool!! Here are some pictures of Sarah helping me decorate our tree this year and also the tree mostly finished (we have a star on top this year).

Every year we collect an ornament, so when Sarah gets married and leaves home she will have enough ornaments for her own Christmas tree. My parents did this for me and my siblings and I love pulling ornaments out every year and remembering when I got them and what they each mean to me. Some are more special than others, of course, but they all hold a very special place in my heart. I hope Sarah feels the same way when she's older. This year we all got snowmen ornaments.

What traditions does your family have when decorating the Christmas tree?

My Birthday

So. my 25th birthday was on Sunday. Wow, I feel so old. Not as bad as last year though, I think it was because I had a newborn my last birthday and boy, did that make me feel old. Well, I take comfort knowing Jordan is 2 years older than me and I have no room to complain. I've come really far for only being 25. Most women my age don't even own a house, let alone are married (lest they live in grand-olde UT).

My parents gave me great seats to the Jazz game on Friday night and for the first time in my life I had to look up at the jumbo-tron! I was 6 rows away from center court and I was so close I could hear everyone talking! I never realized how skinny b-ball players are! They look so big on TV!! They are scrawny men with chicken legs!! Ok, not all of them, but I was surprised at how many were!

Jordan also got me a new camera! Hallelujah! I love it! I've been forgetting to bring my camera into work to upload my new pics, so bear with me. I will get photos soon and videos! We decorated our tree on Sunday and I have some cute pics of my baby girl helping mommy hand ornaments. Sarah is such a doll, I can hardly contain myself!

Thanksgiving was great! Justin and Lindsey came up from AZ and my Mom and Dad came down from Logan. Jordan's family joined as well and we had a total of 11 people with Sarah. It was a lot of fun and bless Jordan's soul, he cleaned up the entire meal, including dishes!! I knew I married him for a reason!

I hope every one's Turkey day went as well as mine! I am looking forward to Christmas this year with Sarah. She is already so cute, I can't wait till Christmas morning to watch her open gifts and think the best part of them is the box!

Gearing up for Turkey Day

So, I am getting ready for the big Thanksgiving Day this year! It is at my home and Jordan's family is coming, my parents, and my brother Justin and his wife Lindsey from AZ. It will be a lot of fun, but man, oh, man, a lot of work!! So, Jordan is working nights this week and his mornings are filled with cleaning the house (fun for him, but hey, it's his family). He was the one to invite my family along, so he is cleaning this year. He's a good sport about it and I am so glad I married a man who knows how to clean, I mean, really clean. The Lord knew what he was doing when he sent Jordan my way, that's for sure!! I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving! Safe traveling to those who are going elsewhere this year!

Memories...

As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot...anything you remember! Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty cool (and funny) to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you!

Twilight!!!

So, I went to Twilight at the midnight screening and can I say...WOW!!!! AMAZING!!! LOVE IT!!! I am a really critical person when it comes to books I've read and adapted to film. Everyone in the entire cast did a phenomenal job!! They, of course, had to change a few things (like things being said in different scenes) to save time, but I still loved it. Can I say it again? Loved it!! Go see it if you love the books! Rob Pattinson who plays Edward did a great job of playing the incredible difficult role of a complex Edward. Kristen Stewart who plays Bella was so much like the Bella I imagined it makes me speechless! All I can say is this, how much longer before they film 2 and 3? I can't wait!!! Go see the movie and you won't regret it!

Stake Musical Auditions

Stake Musical auditions went great!! I am so excited about the entire show! I wrote the script and found the music, Anna, of course, added in her two cents of what songs she thought would be fun--and I fit them into the script nicely.

Everyone we called back was great! We had a fun time learning a dance to Footloose and singing Broadway songs, and acting out scenes for a cold read from the script. I was amazed at the talent in my Stake. Wow, that is all I can say.

Anna and I deliberated for a bit after call backs, but within in an hour or so we had our leads figured out and our supporting leads. This musical is going to rock! Sis. Breeze (our Stake Choreographer who is a professional dance instructor) is practically choreographing the entire show for us! Anna is the music director, I am the director, and obviously we have a choreographer. I am thrilled! I will keep you updated as the show progresses.

Logan Trip

We went to Logan for the weekend and had an absolute blast! We went hiking up Springhollow in Logan Canyon and went rock hounding. Of course Sarah didn't understand the whole looking for cool rocks thing, and frankly neither does Jordan, but dad and I liked it. Mom did too. I found a really neat, practically whole piece of horn corral! Dad is going to polish it up for me and make it into a necklace!

Nana pushed Sarah for part of the way and then Sarah decided she didn't want to be in her stroller anymore, so Jordan stuck her right up in his shoulders and carried her the rest of the way. The hike isn't a hard one, it is pretty easy, so it wasn't too much of a hassle not having our backpack with us to carry Sarah in. She liked playing with daddy's hair too, so it worked out good.

It was nice to get out of the city and into the mountains again. I miss Logan a lot and the seclusion it offers. There isn't one place in SLC you can go without having a million people there with you too. Unless, of course, you backpack in somewhere and you're high in the Unita range. With a baby that is really hard to do. So, going to Logan and hiking in places that aren't over crowded, and for the most part you are always alone with your group, is very nice. You don't have to worry about having your dog on a leash or worrying about other hikers on the trail and who has the right-of-way.

Sorry the pic is so dark, but it is a cute one of Sarah smiling on Jordan's shoulders. I took the picture facing the sun and my camera sort of sucks, so I ended up with a dark picture.

Anyway, after we went hiking we went back home and Sarah took a 3 hour nap! She had a lot of fun hiking, but she was exhausted!

After she woke up we took her to Madagascar 2, Escape to Africa. I saw maybe 10 minutes of the movie and Sarah wanted out. I had to take her out into the hall and walk with her the entire movie. Needless to say, Sarah isn't ready to sit still and watch any movies yet. I was just glad the movies was only an hour long. Any longer and I would've grabbed the keys from Jordan and took Sarah back to Nana's house to play.

We then went to dinner for my parents 31st wedding anniversary. They said they didn't want to spend it alone this year, since they spend a lot of time together now that they are empty-nesters, and wanted my sister Liz's family and Jordan and I to join them. We went to Iron Gate Grill and enjoyed a fun evening together.

Sunday was fun, but in church Sarah was a little squirmer! Now she is feeling better she doesn't want anyone holding her back. She wants to get all the wiggles out she can, so we only stayed for Sacrament meeting. Dad said he got the flu from his flu shot on Sunday, so he didn't go to church. I don't think he did, I think he was sore from working out in the yard on Saturday, but he was positive he had the flu. So, we ate Sunday dinner at Liz's house. I cooked it up at Mom's and then we took everything over to Liz's. It was yummy and fun to go to her house. We also got our Christmas card pictures done! Yeah! Here is a taste of how cute we all are together...

Well, I hope everyone else had just as good of a weekend as we did!

Sarah's Finally Feeling Better!

After what has seemed like a lifetime (at least in the eyes of a tiny, adorable babe) Sarah is feeling better. Her bouts with a "stomach bug"--that is what the doctor called it--are less frequent and she is doing a lot better in that department. Her diaper rash is also going away thanks to Auntie Liz's recommendation to use Burt's Bees Diaper Ointment (highly recommend it over Desitin!). Sarah is no longer screaming when you hold her, sitting down on her bottom instead of lying on her tummy, and can take a bath without a blood-curdling scream each time the water touches her bottom. Poor thing, her rash was an open sore covering half her tiny bottom, but now she is doing much better. I even got some sleep last night!! Yeah for me! I hope this stomach bug doesn't ail anyone else this season!!

Halloween 2008

Well, Halloween was a blast! Sarah was by far the cutest Ariel ever to exist! She is such a doll! We had a lot of fun walking around the "Trunk-or-Treat" at the park while Jordan gave candy out to kids at the car. Everyone thought our combo was great: Ursula and Ariel. I have to admit, we looked pretty darn good!

After we passed candy out and walked around the park we headed home for Uncle Robert's 22nd birthday party. We had chili and pumpkin squares while watching "Hocus Pocus". Later we watched "Ghost Whisperer" because Lynette is hooked on the show and had to watch the Halloween special.

On Saturday Anna and I pulled out the veggie garden while Sarah played happily in her porta-crib. It was hard work, but the relief knowing it is done is worth a thousand words. Then, I decided it was time to fold laundry...yuck! That and cleaning the closet are the two worst chores to ask me to do! I don't like doing them at all! Well, I did (sighs). But, something good came out of it. Sarah has learned how to blow kisses!

Sunday Sarah woke up ill. She is still ill today as well. I wonder if she caught something while out. It seems like it has been too long since she spent time with Nana to catch her cold. I think there must be something going around this time of year cause Sarah isn't feeling well at all, poor doll!

Daisy decided it would be fun to play with Sarah's balloon she got at the store on Saturday, so here is a funny video of my "blonde" dog. This is how we exercise Daisy Mae...

1st Place Winner!

I took 1st Place! Yeah! It was a close call this year at the work costume contest! It was a lot of fun. I can't wait to take Sarah out this year at the ward Trunk-or-Treat. I just want to show off our costumes!

Ursula

Pumpkin Carving

Well, we carved our pumpkins last night and you just can't carve a pumpkin and not light it, right? Well, since I am Ursula this year and Sarah is Ariel, we decided to carve Flounder on the pumpkin to stay with the whole theme of The Little Mermaid. Anna decided to do a classic Anna pumpkin, cute, scary, and a little bit of humor. Fun, isn't he?

Are you ready for Halloween? Sarah's costume is done, as is mine, and we're ready to be 'swimmin with the fishs' in our costumes. I'll be sure to post pics in the coming days.

Deer Hunt

So, Jordan and I are finally back home, whew! It was a lot of fun deer hunting, mostly because it wasn't freezing cold and we got to hike a lot. Meghann and Richard (my friend from childhood and her husband) came with us on Saturday and spent the day hiking and tracking with us. It was a lot of fun to have others with Jordan and me for a least part of the trip. This picture was taken near our cabin in Indianola, UT.

On Sunday we went to Jon's mission farewell. It was fun and sad at the same time. I am going to miss my little bro, but as I told Abby, 2 years will go by so fast it will seem like tomorrow when we see him again. Jon left yesterday for the MTC and is training/learning to be a missionary for the Cebu, Philippines mission. He is learning a new language and will be flying out to Cebu December 23rd and will miss Christmas this year...sad!! But he is excited and that is all that matters.

Sunday evening we left Logan, Sarah was well with Nana, and returned back to the cabin to hunt. We caught the evening hunt Sunday night, but only saw doe. I was convinced there weren't any bucks near our cabin since I'd never seen them before. Just a whole lot of doe!!

Monday Jordan and I decided to hike about 6 miles through the mountains using animals trails as our own. It took us a good part of the day to hike down through the ravines, find a trail that actually got us somewhere, and carefully hike over fallen trees, streams, and ridges. It was a beautiful hike. At the first of the hike we only saw 6 doe deer, go figure, but we continued on. Later we saw 3 grouse, 2 woodpeckers, and plenty of other wild birds. Jordan and I had hiked in about 2 1/2 hours and were near the river flowing between two mountain sides when I smelled something very different (a mix between a rabbit and a wet dog). Suddenly in front of us there was loud crashing, breaking of twigs, and thunderous running. Jordan and I got out guns ready not knowing what was in front of us and continued to hike on. Moments later we saw the river and...two bull moose!!

Instead of pushing out deer we pushed out two moose! Not to mention bull moose! They are majestic animals and it was neat seeing them. But, I stayed as clear of them as I could. Jordan and I sat on the ridge for about 30 minutes before we thought we were safe. We began hiking down the mountain again and suddenly we heard twigs breaking near us again. We turned our heads and five feet away from us were both moose! Jordan calmly turned to me and said, "Where's the camera?" I slapped him hurriedly on the back and exclaimed, "Get moving!" He has never been charged by a moose as I have and doesn't know the danger they present. Moose have been known to be more lethal than bears in Alaska (something he didn't know until I told him why I wanted to get as much distance between me and them).

On the trail we also discovered bear scat. Jordan didn't believe me when I told him that was what we saw until we spoke to another hunter who hiked the same animal trails we did the day before and said his brother had seen a cinnamon colored bear in that area. Well, needless to say I had my gun ready in case we walked into the bears path. But, luckily we stayed clear of the bear and the bear stayed clear of us!

On Tuesday we decided to go to the top of the ridge where we began hiking down yesterday because that was were we had seen the large herd of doe. Richard also saw a buck on Saturday, but Jordan was hiking behind him and couldn't shoot through Richard to get the deer. So, we decided that was where our best bet would be to find a buck. We waited in the cold for two hours, watching both mountainsides carefully for any movement--nothing. Then, just as I had convinced Jordan to start heading back to the 4-wheeler, a herd of deer came running over the ridge, stopped and looked at us, and began running down the mountainside. I was behind Jordan to the side and when I saw the buck I couldn't shoot through Jordan. Jordan shot once and then I saw the deer appear to be running down, so I got my gun ready and just as I was about to take off my safety, the deer tumbled down to the ground. So, Jordan shot a 4 point buck and could "hold his head high" according to him. At first, I must admit, I felt bad for the deer. I know others who read this blog do as well. Well, let's just say he died very, very quickly without suffering because Jordan has good aim, and it is for the best since we are going to eat the meat and share with Richard and Meghann who also need meat. I am not going to post pics here because I know some are sensitive to these things, so if you want to see a pic just email me and I'll send one along.

All in all, that was our trip. I convinced Jordan to come home Tuesday instead of Wednesday so we could process everything and clean everything up before we had to pick Sarah up from Nana. We then saw Jon off to the MTC yesterday and I had to hold everything inside while he gave me his quick goodbye with his nervous smile. I know Jonny will be a great missionary!! I will keep updates of him posted here as times goes on.

Deer Hunt

So, Jordan and I are preparing for the deer hunt right now. He is really excited, I am okay about it, but I am going to miss my little bug. Sarah is going to stay with Nana and Bompa for a few days and I am really going to miss my little wiggle worm. I am already sad just thinking about it.

But, I am excited to be taking off a few days of work and just letting stress wash off of me. It seems like everything inside builds up until I'm afraid I'm going to burst. But, I hear that I'm not the only one that happens to as well.

So, this weekend is the deer hunt, my brother Jon's mission farewell (he is going to Cebu, Philippines), and leaving Sarah in Nana's trusting hands for a few days. Wow, this is a big step letting someone else take care of your kid for a few days even though you know they will be fine.

I hope Nana is ready to keep up with Sarah...she's a pretty fast mover!

Ta-Da! Sarah Walks!

So, on Saturday night while all the men, minus Jordan, where at Priesthood session of General Conference for my church, Sarah walked! All by herself! She was playing with my cousin Niki's son, Colin (3), and was standing at the couch and I guess decided she could make it to the coffee table by herself and off she went! Naturally I freaked out! I was lying on the floor watching the two kids play and Sarah took one, then two, and then three steps! I yelled at Jordan to come and watch, scared Sarah when I freaked out and she sat on the floor looking around to see what was making mommy freak out!

So we stood her back up and Sarah walked all the way to Nana! 4 steps! Then back to mommy! And then we decided she could walk to daddy so off she went to walk to Jordan. Jordan, however, was being sneaky! He kept scooting back! Sarah took 15 steps before Jordan stopped and grabbed her into a bear hug. It was so cute!! Yeah for Sarah Marie! I'm so glad I was able to see her first steps because I was working when she started crawling.

First steps October 4th, 2008 at 7:30pm, Grandma Harris' house in Logan!!

Walking Sarah

Well, Sarah walks with a walker! It is so cute! I've been practicing with her and one day she found her walker in the corner of the room, grabbed the handles, and off she went! She makes a "bbbbbb" sound as she walks like a car motor. When I was practicing with her I made the same noise thinking she would like walking if it was more like a game than work, and walla!, she walks! She walks all stiff legged. Watch the video and see if you agree with me!

Isn't my little stinker cute?! (Oh, I was playing a game as well and had to speak with an Irish accent (not a very good one I might add) so that is why I sound wierd!)

Mommy's Little Maestro

Well, Sarah began playing all sorts of keys on the piano last night while I was cooking dinner in the kitchen. When I realized she was playing too broad of a range of keys at the same time for standing on the floor and plucking keys out with her tiny fingers it was then I realized she had climbed the chair and began playing and singing (although not in the same key -- all in due time). Check out the video, it is cute!

Sarah's First Haircut!

Sarah Marie had her very first haircut! She was so good too! I thought for sure she was going to melt down and cry the entire time, but nope, she was better handled than me! I think I was more apprehensive than she was! She went to Cookie Cutters, they specialize in little tike haircuts, and sat in a pink car, which she tried to drive, and watched Pocahontas. It was a really good experience. Not to mention, I learned a really cute way to do Sarah's hair!

Sarah also had her 1 year pics done a week or so ago. She is such a doll! I had to add this photo in. I love it! She just has this classic look about her, don't you think? Thanks Auntie Liz for another perfect photo of my babe!

Sarah is also learning how to walk, but isn't quite there yet. She is trying though! She is so tall that it is hard for her to walk. She shuffles, stands by herself, and can walk with you with one hand. but doesn't dare do it by herself right now. Here is a video of Nana trying to help Sarah learn how to walk. Oh, and Sarah growls when she is upset, mad, or frustrated (you'll hear it in the video). I suppose it is better than throwing a temper tantrum, right?! Thanks Nana!!

Sharing

Sarah has learned how to share her toys! It is really cute. She will have something in her hand, like a toy, and if you say 'Can I see that?' or 'Share with me' she will pass the item on to you! It is so adorable!

Sarah isn't walking yet, and I think this is a blessing in disguise. At least that is what her pediatrician said. But, Sarah is a little climber! Thanks to her Bumpa's genes that is. She climbs onto everything! From chairs, to couches, to on top of her arcade table toy!! She once even climbed out of her highchair at Bear Lake and onto the table! Yikes! I think I have an adventurer on my hands!

Sarah went and got her 12 month shots last week and the Doctor official told me she wasn't 'huge' just 'big'. He measure Sarah twice because she was so tall!! She measured at a whooping 32" placing her in the 99th percentile in height! He said she is looking at being 6 feet or taller when she is full grown! I guess I better start looking for a good swimming and volleyball couch now!

She weighed in at 22lbs 4 oz placing her in the 70th percentile for weight. Which why he said she wasn't huge, just big. He said her proportions are good, but doesn't want her height to get to ahead of her weight. But as everyone can attest to, Sarah is an eater! She eats more than me!! Then again, I am on a diet.

All in all, everything is going great with the Resch family right now. We are heading into the fall season and preparing for the fun holidays ahead of us. Sarah is going to introduce herself as Ariel for Halloween, and I'm following the theme and am going to be Ursela. Jordan, however, isn't gracing us with a costume this year--as usual.

What about you? What are your costumes for this year?

Sarah Marie's 1st Birthday!

Sarah has officially turned 1! She is so big!! She didn't quiet understand the whole birthday party thing, but she was glad to have cake and ice cream!

Bumpa made a wonderful, creamy homemade ice cream for Sarah's party. I made a cake, with Megs help, and decorated it for her 'Under the Sea' party.

It all started with a fun game of water volleyball. Everyone enjoyed and had a wonderful time! Abby learned how to play, with Karina's help, and enjoyed tossing a water balloon back and forth. Phillip and Luke (Jordan's cousin Jame's kids) enjoyed playing as well. Everyone enjoyed a yummy BBQ dinner and then dug into the cake. Of course Sarah had to blow her candle out (with everyone's help) before she could dig right in.

Isn't she cute?! Sarah dug right into her cake, both hands (of course!). She didn't understand why the cake didn't come off her hands when she tossed them up and down. The frosting made everything stick! But, she loved it and wanted more--but I spared her a tummy ache and guided her to more healthier things--like presents!

Sarah's first present was a book from Mommy and Daddy. Sarah loves books! She can sit on the floor with a couple of books at her side and she will flip through each of them and 'read' to herself. It is so cute!! She loves to flip through all the pages and look at them. When I get home from work she has me sit down with her and read books, well, her choice of book about 5 times over. But I don't mind--I am an avid reader as well so having a daughter who loves books just makes me jump up and down with excitement! Anyway, when Sarah opened her first gift she didn't want anything more. She wanted me to read her the book before I moved on. So, that is what we had to do with each book! She got about 5 or 6 books and had to 'read' them all.

Sarah got plenty of other wonderful gifts and she thanks everyone for the PJ's, clothes, and toys! She loves them all!!

After cake and ice cream we all enjoyed a pinata! Of course Sarah enjoyed watching--her coordination isn't up to speed with the other kids just yet. Abby was second to go after Luke. Phillip next (who hit it hard enough some candy came out!). After the kids had their turn, the adults got to try! Jon attempted, but failed to make a break. Then Roo tried, got a good hit, but didn't knock it down. Then came my turn. I didn't think I was going to hit it, but I swung hard and the pinata burst open spilling candy everywhere!

All in all, it was a fun birthday party, weekend at Bear Lake with beautiful weather, and a great time! Sarah had fun sitting on the beach with Nana and playing in the sun! I finally got to wakeboard after a two year break! I am a little sore, I admit, but it was a blast! I was glad everyone was able to come up and enjoy some time together taking a break from the stresses of life! Thanks everyone who came!!!

Sarah's 1st Birthday!!

Well, a year has come! Sarah will be one this Thursday!! I can't believe how quickly it has all gone by. Soon she will be running around, talking on a cell phone, and driving! Scary!

For Sarah's birthday we are planning on going to Bear Lake and spending the weekend there. We're going to have a BBQ on the beach on Saturday for Sarah's birthday party. We're going to have some games and treats. I am pretty excited. I know Sarah won't remember this party, but everyone else will! Since the party is at Bear Lake I have decided on an 'Under the Sea' theme. I think it is going to be a lot of fun!!

Sarah is so close to walking! I can't believe it! But, I am glad she is preferring her crawling right now. I know as soon as she decides to walk I am in a load of trouble. She already climbs, I can only imagine the trouble she is going to get into once she can walk!

I will write more once Sarah's party has come and gone. I'll be sure to post pics as well. I hope everyone is planning on a fun weekend! I am!

Indianola

Hello All~

I know it has been a while since I have written. I have just been so busy in life that I didn't take the time to write. Shame on me, I know, I know.

Good news, my book that I wrote has already been asked to be seen by one literary agency. The great news about this was it happened within a 24 hour time frame of when I sent out my query letter. This is completely unheard of in the industry, so I was ecstatic! I should hear from other agencies within another 5-7 weeks from now. Hopefully I can get my foot in the door. I know rejections are to come, it is to be expected, but I am still thrilled nonetheless. Please keep me in your prayers! This could be my huge break!! I would love to see my book in print. That is all I am looking forward to is sharing my work with others and hoping they too like it as much as I do.

Sarah is taller than all get out!! She just keeps stretching!! Poor thing is going to be seven feet tall by the time she is five at the rate she is growing. Well, at least she will have to marry some tall guy who happens to be an NBA player so Jordan and I can have our retirement settled for life--right?! Sarah is just as cute as she is tall. I will have to post some pictures soon.

Over the 24th weekend we decided to go to our cabin in Indianola. It was very, very hot! We had a lot of fun despite the heat wave that hit us. We spent the later part of the afternoons sitting in the creek and splashing each other. Sarah enjoyed splashing us as well. It was very cute!

Daisy had a blast. The first day she wore herself right out and she was good for the entire trip! She swam in the creek, ran with the 4-wheeler, and searched for every type of varmint possible. Daisy is a true-blue lab. It was a lot of fun to get away from everything for a weekend and just relax.

My older sister Liz had her second baby, Aiden Robert Kempe! She had him July 23rd just before midnight. He was born face up and swallowed some fluids, so he is in ICU on a ventilator. But, he is doing well and should go home sometime later this week. We are all happy for Liz and baby! Especially now they are showing signs of good health.

Cottonwood!

We finally made a trip to our beloved Cottonwood! It was a lot of fun! It was so nice to get away from everything just for a few days...cell phones, computers, tv's, movies--everything! Nature really does have a healing power.

Sarah really enjoyed herself as well. She went on her first boat ride!! I was driving the boat and fishing at the same time, so Nana took it upon herself to hold Sarah while my hands were occupied. Sarah, obviously, couldn't be in better hands!

Abby also had a great time, even though Liz could only stay for a part of the trip. Her little Aden is due any day now and pretty soon Abby will have a little brother to take care of. We were all really glad Liz didn't go into labor while we were there, talk about what a story that would have made!!

Sarah also took her first 4-wheel ride with Daddy. Look how cute they are!! Sarah enjoyed the short ride her and Jordan went on.

Everything is so green this year! The winter was wet and long, something everyone needed. The mountains were beautiful this year, as you can see, and we saw several animals.

We saw a lot of deer come to the salt lick. One morning there was even a bull moose who came out of the willows for some salt! I saw an otter, or a mink, in the lake as well. It had the cutest face!! No beavers this year though, perhaps next year. We seem to see beavers about once every four years or so.

The fishing was great this year. I caught 9 fish in one day! And that was all in the evening as well. Of course I catched-and-released. The fish are still growing, so we didn't catch any really 'nice' ones. Not to mention, is almost spawning time and we always need more fish in the lake for next year.

We also enjoyed a hike to Slide Lake (or what we call Dead Lake) this year. It was full and beautiful as you can see. The hike was gorgeous as well!

We had a wonderful trip and I am sad it is over...as usual. I hope I am able to go again this year before the snow comes, but we'll see. I am planning on going on the deer hunt this October, so I might not be able to make it up to Cottonwood before then. But, there is always next year! I look forward to this trip year after year.

How was your July 4th?

Preparing for Cottonwood

So, we are really looking forward to our trip to Cottonwood! I missed it last year, so this year will be making up for it. I am also really excited to share this fun place with Sarah! I will update with pics after we go! Have a happy July 4th!

Fishing!!

So, I finally went fishing!!! It took long enough!!! We went up to Timpanogas, Silver Lake and enjoyed an afternoon fishing and relaxing in the mountains. I hadn't realized how much I missed it. I hadn't been fishing for over a year, something unheard of, because of all the events in my life. Now that Sarah is a little older it is easier taking her places. But, she still got filthy. I had a taste of how dirty Sarah will get at Cottonwood. I have to say, fishing with Daisy and Sarah is not the easiest thing to do. Daisy loves the water and loves to fetch, so I am sure you can make the connection. Let's just say I had a fish on the line till Daisy decided to join me. I was irked, but hey, such is life.

Jordan tested out his float tube and LOVES it. He told me I had to outfit myself before we go to Cottonwood at the end of the month. Well, I don't mind! I have wanted a float tube for a while now. That red dot clear out there is Jordan. A little surprising considering he is afraid of water!! I have rubbed off on him--I am a fish.

Sarah has taught herself how to play 'peek-a-boo' without mommy or daddy covering her. It is so cute! She was playing on the way home from fishing. Isn't she a doll?!

Sarah the Stander-Uper

So, I finally remembered to bring my camera with me to the computer. (Sighs) It took me long enough!! Isn't my little girl so cute!!! I can't believe how big she has gotten in the last couple of weeks. She just never seems to stop growing.

Sarah has also learned to shake her head 'no'. She doesn't know what it means, she just knows it makes everyone laugh. I have tried several times to catch this on camera, but she freezes up. She'll smile for the camera, but that is about it. So, here is what happened when I tried to tape her cute 'no'.

Tonight we are looking forward to a BBQ with our neighbors the Reinfelts. They are awesome and we love living next to them. I am sure when Sarah is a little older she will feel the same. Anna likes them too. It is so nice living next to people you get along with.

Last week Sarah and I went to Logan and spent some time at the farmer's market and also the Providence Carnival. It was a lot of fun! Sarah enjoyed watching cousin Abby on the rides. By this time next year I am sure Sarah will be tall enough for all the kids rides. She is already up to Abby's chest, and Abby is the tallest person on her t-ball team. Anyway, that was the update about last weekend...which was also very cold!!

Daisy still hasn't really figured out how to avoid...or what is the right word...hide from Sarah. Sarah loves to stand up! Even on Daisy. Daisy, however is a very social animal so she doesn't like to be in another room when someone isn't in there with her. So, if we are in a room close to one of Sarah's gates then Daisy will take the opportunity and 'hide'. Sarah doesn't mind, she still seems to find ways to get Daisy.

The other Sunday, Sarah was wearing her beautiful pink dress Nana gave her. I couldn't resist taking a picture. Sarah is so pretty in pink! Of course my front yard garden only has deep colors like red, yellow, and purple, so my pinks are all in the backyard. This picture was take nest to my variegated weigela that was in bloom (pretty, huh).

I hope everyone has a great Father's Day weekend! Jordan, I am sure, will.

Weekend Fun

So, it has taken me a while to write again. I left my camera at home, so no pics today. I will be sure to update with pics as soon as I can.

Sarah is just as cute as ever! She is standing up all the time now. She stands up on Daisy, the couch, chairs, and the piano. She even can reach the keys because she is so tall and plays the piano for us! It is really cute! I have an adorable picture of her jamming out on the piano. Perhaps I have a Mozart on my hands...hmm?

Jordan and I have started on our basement. After years of saying we were going to start we finally have. I am glad too. I need an office space for all my Private Quarters things. Right now they are hanging out my room taking almost my entire side of the room. It will be nice to have my space back again and not sharing it with catalogs and such.

Jordan and our neighbor kid Adam planted 4 trees in our yard last Saturday. One red maple and three eastern red buds. I just have to wait a few years for them to mature and I will have one good looking yard. That is the hard thing about building a home--landscaping. I will have to take a pic of my yard so everyone can see what we have done. I love my front yard, my backyard is getting there (we want to add black lava rock all around the perimeter of the house and fence). Give my plants another few years to mature and we are set! How is everyone else's yards coming along?

My veggie garden is doing really well this year too. I have been cultivating lettuce for the last couple of weeks. I think in a week or two I will have some peas as well. Yum! Sarah will enjoy those just as much as me. I hope you all have fun plans for the weekend! I goin' fishin'!

Life Reminders

Yesterday a man from my ward was suddenly killed in a motorcycle accident. He wasn't disobeying any laws, in fact he was driving under the speed limit, when he hit a deer on 1300East in SLC. He had a helmet on too. But his life was still taken. He has left behind a wife and 7 kids, the oldest 14 and the youngest 18 months.

It is sad that this sort of thing has to happen to make me remember how precious this life really is. I can't say I will die tomorrow or the next, but I think we should live our lives as if it could. We really never know when our time may come. I can only hope I will be around long enough to see Sarah grow old. Jordan and I have always prepared for the worst--we both have life insurance policies--but it would still be devastating nonetheless.

Well, that being said I just want to let you all know I love ya! Truly I do, otherwise I wouldn't have passed my blog website on to you!!! God bless everyone of you and your families!

Bear Lake Fun!

Bear Lake was actually nice this weekend. Monday was rainy, but that was it. It was partly cloudy the rest of the time, so when the sun was out it was really nice! Sarah had a great time on the swings. She cooed, laughed, and giggled. Isn't she cute?!

We also played with Abby and Auntie Roo on the huge playground Uncle DelLoy made last summer. Abby loved going down the slide and pretending to be a horse. Auntie Roo was just glad to be with her two cutest nieces this weekend. Sorry you missed out Adam!!

It wasn't warm enough to go boating, unfortunately, but we enjoyed a good game of soccer. Mike and Becca were on a team and Jon, Jordan, and me were on the other team. I think it was fair considering Jordan doesn't play soccer at all. Jon and I won, but only because I held Becca down while Jon scored. Hey, fair is fair in family and soccer...right?! All in all, a great relaxing weekend at the Lake. I hope there are plenty more to come this summer!

Gearing up for the weekend...

So, I am ready for a long, repeat long! weekend. I need the break from all the stresses of the world. So even though this weekend is going to be crappy weather, I am still looking forward to freezing my rear off at Bear Lake with my family. Hey, there is heaters, so there isn't a problem! Now the time has come to pull out all the family group games, pop some popcorn, and be prepared to laugh about silly things (mainly because Jonny is brilliantly hilarious!).

Sarah is also going to enjoy her first trip to Bear Lake! Get ready baby, this is not be your last! I missed a lot of trips to Bear Lake last summer, due to bed rest and the pregnancy, so I am determined to make up for it this year. I am ready to break out the wakeboard and fly! I hope your weekend is just as fun!!!

Also, thanks to those who are reading my book! Any and all input is welcome. If you read this little note and want to read my book, let me know and I will send it to you. (It is YA sci-fi)

Getting Ready for Memorial Weekend

So, I am so excited to be headed out for the weekend! We are headed to Bear Lake. This will be Sarah's first official trip to Bear Lake with Nana, Bumpa, and the rest of my family! I am sure Daisy is going to have a heart attack finally being able to swim again after a very long break (since I was on bed rest all last summer).

Also, Jordan is so proud of himself, he has taught Sarah to say "da-da". It is really cute. But now, since she is always saying "da-da" he is dubbed the dirty diaper changer because Sarah is asking for him. Fair is fair, right?! Now, since he feels bad that she isn't saying "ma-ma" he is trying to teach it to her. Well, fair is fair in love and war. And so the war of Sarah's vocabulary shall begin! At least she started signing before speaking, not that she really knows what "da-da" means. Right now she is just saying it to say it. Although, I must admit, it is really cute.

Sarah is Crawling!!!

Well....well...Sarah has finally joined the ranks of the crawlers! Last week, May 7th, Sarah decided it was high time to crawl and stop rolling as her means of transportation. After all, she is a little thrill seeker and crawling is quicker than rolling. Not to mention, everything is at a different eye level and so much more interesting!

She is so cute! Here is a video of when she was first learning how to crawl, that is why she looks like she is struggling just a little. Now...well, just watch out she just might crawl all of over you!

Also, for Mother's Day we went and visited Nana in Logan. It was a lot of fun and we were glad to have almost everyone there. Justin and Lindsey live in PHX, so it wasn't like they could drop everything and come, but we missed them all the same. Here is Sarah pretty in purple in Nana's garden out front.

It was nice to have dinner at Liz's home. She is so pregnant! Her belly is really cute too. She is one of those really cute pregnant women who the rest of detest because we just looked fat. Well, at least that is one positive thing Liz can remember about her pregnancy.

Sarah also has a cold, poor thing. This time she is coughing. Anna got a cold at work and passed it on to Sarah. I feel for her! She is cranky and sleepy most of the time now and I know she must feel miserable. Poor Sarah.

Otherwise, nothing new is happening on Resch lane. Just coasting along. I hope everyone else had a wonderful Mother's Day!