EDWARDS

I guess it's time for a post since it's been a year...

2011-05-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

Waiting for Aunt Casey after her wedding.

Two sweeties in their matching PJ's

Pretty cool cat.

Stella is going to be a painist if you can't tell. She loves to play everyday.

Todd and I after a rousing day of dirt bike riding at Ashland motocross track. Yes I RODE.

Sweet Stella's One Year Old Pictures

2010-09-23T14:53:00.000-07:00

Stella is ONE! One year of life, TWO Parties.

2010-09-09T09:46:00.001-07:00

This was Stella's birthday party in Utah. She loved her presents but mostly, her cake.

We had a little swim party before which was very fun!

This was Stella's party in Iowa. I made her a lady bug cake and it was darling!

A close up of the hand crafted cake.

The aftermath...

She loved crawling all over her presents. She has been so entertained ever since her birthday. All of the new toys are the best! We had a bounce house in the back yard but I forgot to take pictures of it. I made about 400 gyoza with Heather and it took us 2 days. That will be the last gyoza party so I hope everyone enjoyed it. It was a TON of work but we had so much fun.

MY MOTORCYLE VICTORY. This one's for Syd.

2010-09-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

This is too exciting for words. Ok, I will try. Well, it all started as a dream. A dream to kick Todd's butt on a motorcycle. Here's how it went. We had a huge family dirt bike race on 110 motorcycles. We went in races of 1 on 1 and I beat two girls in order to get into the final heat. Then, I was up against Todd and his cousin Zack who are both very seasoned riders. Lets do the play by play.

Here I am FLYING over a jump. Really the picture doesn't tell the story. I maybe had 1 inch of air.

This is Sabry and myself. Sabry crashed and ripped up her arm. Ouch.

HERE I am in the finals. See me in the lead!!! At the top I am holding my lovely trohpy. Champion.

Stella was enjoying a ride of her own. She is getting so big!

Our DC Vacation and a Preview to Stella's Easter Photo Shoot...

2010-04-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

This is one of many pictures to come of Sweet Stella in her Easter Dress. So Pretty!

This was a very big day. Stella's first pony tail. There were maybe 3 hairs in it but it held! She had one hair that was like 3 inches long that she's had since she was born. Her dad calls it her "lucky hair". Well, it was very dramatic because when Todd pulled out her pony, her lucky hair came out!!!

In front of the White House. Such a fun trip.

At the Lincoln Monument. Stella was an angel the entire trip. We walked from morning til night and she never complained. She just hung out in her stroller. What a cutie!

Todd's mom knows our Congressman so we got to visit his office and he arranged a private tour of the Capitol for us.

In the UNDERGROUND tunnels to get into the Capitol. So Mission Impossible.

At the Air and Space Museum. One of my favorite spots for sure.

Ha ha ha.

Stella enjoying a lovely nap with her toys.

This was Todd's pose at his Dealer Academy graduation. Wow is all I can say.

Stella's head is so... advanced... that she can wear big girl headbands. Ha ha the baby ones don't fit her. She was letting off very loud gas during the graduation and at all the quiet parts. Very lady like.

Our Trip to Utah

2010-02-02T17:26:00.001-08:00

Stella and her new cousin Grayson. So cute. Stella was sick almost our entire trip but finally got better toward the end so they could be around eachother a little bit.

Stella looks very... full in this picture. Ha ha she loves her life of eating and playing.

Little cousin is very tired.

Stella loves her auntie Casey.

Stella learned to hold her head up for a very long time while we were there. Then, the night before we left, she pulled out the big guns and rolled over!!!!

We went and saw Betty Jeanne. Stella loved visiting with her. I miss you!

Since Daddy was gone on New Years Eve, Stella and I had to kiss eachother. So, here is our New years eve kiss. She hated it.

Me, Brighton, and Tiana with our 3 babies. We all grew up together and then had babies at relatively the same time. So fun.

Stella and sweet cousin Camryn. Stella looks like she wants to eat her for lunch!

A little cousin reunion at Aunt Karyn's. Thanks Tia for putting it together. I love you guys!

One massive catch up...

2010-02-02T17:12:00.000-08:00

Here we have Stella with her Grandma Jody looking very marvelous in her favorite pink sweater and hat. Grandma gave her this outfit and Stella loves it! She can only love the hat for about 5 seconds though. ha ha

Stella is learning to play and LOVING her toys. This is the first go around in her sassy jumper and she is looking a little sassy if I must say so. She is going to be walking so soon with all of the practice her toys are giving her!

Stella and Mom are best friends. Really she is like, stop pushing on my cheeks!!!

Stella played Baby Jesus in the Edwards Family Nativity. She wore her grinch outfit and looked very sweet.

Beautiful Thighs.

She was almost too big for the cradle.

The entire wild bunch. It is always fun to get together!

Blessing Day and Santa's lap

2009-12-07T13:55:00.000-08:00

This was on Stella's blessing day. She looked so pretty in a dress that has been worn for 5 generations in the Edwards family by all the girls. Very special!

Stella's debut with Santa Claus. She loved it! I had to put an oversized bow on her head because she was wearing all boy colors. I had to have her in her grinch outfit though for Santa.

Long Overdue... and Thanks to Megan

2009-12-03T21:57:00.001-08:00

This is Todd and Stell napping together on Thanksgiving. Todd wore himself out in a grueling paintball game and Stella ate herself into exhaustion.

Hooray! Stella Chose the right.

A family split down the middle. Thank you Stella for knowing what's best for you! I do NOT want to pay out of state tuition

Pre-Halloween Pics and practicing sitting up.

2009-11-03T20:01:00.000-08:00

Stella sitting with her Great Grandma after whom she is named. Very sweet and one of the few moments she was not hysterical in her costume.
Big Chicken
Full body shot looking very exhausted.
Best Buddies
Whoa WHOA getting the hang of it...
VICTORY!!!!
She is so so so sweet.

The latest

2009-10-09T15:58:00.000-07:00

Alright folks here it is: I have been the WORST blogger lately because Todd and I have moved once again! We are now totally in our new house and there is not one thing put away yet... Life is INSANE right now. Being a new mom and trying to get a new house all organized is a lot for me. Especially with mother so far away... I wish she was here so bad. I will take pictures and get them posted as soon as possible. Love you all!

Photo Shoot 2

2009-09-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

Miss Stella and I decided to do a little photo shoot of our own. I say the pictures turned out pretty cute... but then again, I don't think she could take a bad picture. She is too adorable. Enjoy!

Photo Shoot

2009-09-21T11:03:00.000-07:00

Bath Time and darling pics...

2009-09-04T18:41:00.001-07:00

I tried to take these pictures without the binki but when I would pull the binki out to take the picture, she would make a very ticked face so I just had to leave it in. She is the most precious girl.

This is fresh out of the bath and she LOVED it. Bath #1 didn't go so well, we got her out of the tub into her towel and as I was carrying her to my room to get her dressed she went to the bathroom (yes both versions) all over me... ha ha so she had to go in for another dunk.

My little Chicken in her cute towel. So flipping adorable!

Stella's Favorite Spot

2009-09-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

This is Miss Stella's favorite cuddle spot. She could sit there all day. Too bad Dad has to work... it's ruining her fun.

Even More... ha ha She's too cute I have to!

2009-08-31T13:46:00.001-07:00

Sleeping so peacefully today in her little buzzer chair. She had a rough night last night. I think she had a tummy ache. It was so sad! She cried and cried and finally she fell asleep after Grandma held her for about 40 minutes to calm her down. What will I do when she leaves???!!!

I am lucky to have a husband that is so helpful. So far he has gotten up everytime I have to get up during the night just to help me get set up to feed her and get her burped and back asleep. Then he goes to work for 14 hours. He is the best husband and Dad in the world.

Tell me this is not the most hilarious picture in the world!!! Every once in a while she gets really zoned in on staring at something and she gets this hilarious look on her face. I love it. Also in this picture I asked her how old she is and she help up 4 fingers for 4 days old... it's because she's advanced already. My little genius baby. I love her!

And even more...

2009-08-31T13:38:00.001-07:00

Getting in some good awake time with Grandma and Grandpa. She loves them so much. Grandma is still here helping me with everything. It is so nice to have her here. She is cooking, cleaning, and helping me during the night. It is SO nice!!! I am so lucky. Dad has already left and Stella already misses him. We love you!

Stella and Auntie Casey. Casey and Stella became best friends while she was here. Casey helpmed me for 3 weeks and it was the BEST thing ever to have her here. I will miss her so bad til I get to see her again in a few months. Love you Case

More Pictures!!!

2009-08-31T13:30:00.001-07:00

Time to go home from the hospital. So precious.

Todd looks slightly drugged in this picture... probably from not sleeping for 72 hours straight.

Grandpa and Stella snuggling.

Grandpa and Stella holding hands. Such a sweet picture.

Home From the Hospital

2009-08-30T10:55:00.000-07:00

We are finally home from the hospital and so happy. She has been such a joy to have in our home. She never cries except when she is so hungry and she can hear my voice. Ha ha she is so sweet. I caught her sucking her thumb today!!! I have done everything to keep her from starting that habit but she has a mind of her own. She loves her binki so much she can't stand it. Casey left yesterday and Stella already misses her. Stella also can't wait to meet Aunt Jenny this Wednesday!!! HOORAY! I haven't seen Jenny in almost 4 months and I miss her so bad. Stella is so excited to meet you.

Miss Stella LaRae Edwards

2009-08-27T19:21:00.000-07:00

Stella LaRae Edwards arrived yesterday August 26th at 5:04 PM weighing 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 inches long. It has been such an awesome experience which I will tell you all now... (First I need to say, I will probably update this post a couple of times since we are still at the hospital and constantly being interrupted...)

Ok it all started on Tuesday. I went in for my last Doctor's appointment and I was dilated to a 4 so she said it could be any day now. My induction was scheduled for Thursday but she told me it might come sooner. So, immediately following the appointment, I started having bad contractions but spaced pretty far apart so I wasn't too alarmed. Then, they started getting closer and by about 10 pm I was quite a bit of pain. By 11:30 pm I started timing contractions and they were anywhere from 3-5 minutes apart for over 2 hours so I went and got Todd and he took me to the hospital at 1:30 AM. They monitored me for about an hour before they decided whether or not they would keep me because they were booked but turns out I was definitely in labor. So, I continued on with worsening contractions and at 5:30 AM they put in my epidural which surprisingly wasn't bad. It's scary just because you know that it's the biggest nastiest needle ever but it doesn't hurt. The THREE I V's they had to put in me were a hundred times worse. The epidural got going and I was not feeling contractions and thought I was home free. Then the complications started...

The epidural slowed my contractions so they had to start pitocin. I was dilated to an 8 by probably 11AM or so but stayed there for about 4 hours. Also, poor little Stella wasn't responding well to anything. She kept having scary heart rate dips. Part of the problem is that I have very low blood pressure normally and the epidural made it lower and it slowed her heart rate. Then the pitocin made it even worse. Basically, I was responding badly to the epidural and she was responding badly to the pitocin which was the only way to make the epidural possible... so we had a problem. My low blood pressure could only be ok when I was laying flat on my left side. No incline, no laying on my back or right side... thus she never moved down far enough to get me dilated past the 8. So then I was told that if in 2 hours she hadn't moved down, we would have to do a C Section. I was really scared. I had been in labor for over 14 hours and it was very nerve wracking for both Todd and I. Todd was amazing though. He kept reassuring me that everything was going to be fine and he kept me calm. All of a sudden, Stella changed her mind and moved down VERY fast and she was ready to go. By this point, they had already turned off the epidural and pitocin because the baby couldn't take any more. I was lifting both my legs just fine and was no longer numb...

So, the nurses called my Doc and told her that the baby had moved down and she said, "ok I will be there in an hour go ahead and start pushing." Apparently, most first time women have to push for a while and she figured that because I was so exhausted from being in labor for about 18 hours it would take me a while... Clearly she was unaware that due to my 14 years of hard core Opera training, I have exceptionally developed muscles in my abdomen. Her office is 30 minutes away from the hospital to make matters more exciting. So, I sent Mom Dad and Casey out for the pushing since Todd and I just wanted it to be us and we had only pushed for less than 10 minutes when her head was almost out. So the nurses called the Doctor in a panic who was thirty minutes away and we had to wait with NO epidural through 30 minutes of contractions without pushing... It was rough.
Finally she arrived though and it only took two pushes to get the rest of her out. She was so beautiful. It was funny because she was screaming her head off and Todd said something to her and she instantly calmed down and her eyes shot open looking for him. She loves her daddy. She will be asleep and if he comes in and starts talking it wakes her up. I love it! Anyway, that is the birth story. So worth every second. She is the most beautiful thing both Todd and I have ever seen. We love her so much.

Baby Oh Baby

2009-08-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCING.... Ha ha just kidding. Still no news. Just a few days left though which is thrilling. I haven't been able to post ANYTHING because Todd and I are up to our ears in remodeling and thus our internet has been disconnected for a many weeks. So, I just wanted to get on and give a very brief update til I can take time to be more detailed. Basically our house has been in ruins because we decided to wait til the last minute to remodel our living room. What we thought would be an easy job turned out to be quite difficult when we discovered that our hard wood floors underneath the carpet were trashed when we had counted on them being in good condiiton. (the corner I peeled up looked great!) So, we had to have the wood floors completely redone. That took a couple of weeks. Then, Todd and I had a little disagreement over the color of paint for the living room so after an hour in the paint store, we finally came to a color in the middle of our tastes and ended up with the most HORRIBLE shade of Hot Orange Squash imaginable. As I was painting with it I had a mental breakdown and had to go buy all new paint. Ha ha bless Todd's heart for being such a patient loving husband. Now the room is about done with the exception of baseboards which Dad will be helping me with when he arrives next week.

For the baby update:
We are now at nearly 39 weeks with an induce date of August 26th which is a week from Wednesday. I am now dilated to a two... ha ha baby steps I suppose. We will see if I have made any more progress by my appointment this Tuesday. Casey is here helping me with last minute preparations and she is making me take long walks, swim laps, lunges, squats and eat spicy foods since she's hoping the baby will come a little early so she can spend more time with her before heading back to school. Casey makes for a lovely midwife. We are having fun and I LOVE having a full time friend to entertain me. It's so nice!!! This week we need to get Stella's clothes washed and ready for her to wear them. That is our task. Thanks to all of my loving relatives and friends, I have LOTS of clothing to wash. All darling too! I will post pictures soon. Love you all!

I just LOVE nature...

2009-06-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know, Todd and I have a cute little yellow house with a HUGE front yard. At one time, the yard was perfectly landscaped and had to have been beautiful. Well, the lady that lived here before us, got too old to do the upkeep so there was a lot of overgrowth when we moved in. For some stupid reason, I didn't feel overly concerned about the amount of work it would take to get the yard in shape. All I know is that Dad Gary just did all the yard work on Saturdays and never really complained so I thought to myself; it can't be THAT bad. WELL, it is! So, Todd works roughly 70-80 hours a week which makes it my responsibility to get as much yard work done as I can. (Bless Todd's heart for mowing the lawn every week because it's too hard for me). This is where it all started folks. Picture this:
We have a flower bed that is around 150 feet long and 5 feet deep (this means it's ENORMOUS). It was all overgrown with terrible bushes and weeds and everything imagineable. So I begin my quest and spend several days in these horrible bushes clearing everything out. Well, one particular day, I notice mosquito like bumps on my butt and belly. Then they start showing up on my legs and arms. So I figure I have chigger bites. It itched like the DEVIL and was awful. More days go by and they spread to my belly and EVERYWHERE til my whole stomach breaks out in hives and I feel on the edge of death. Well, after 3 different Doctor appointments the verdict is in: I HAVE POISON IVY. All over my body. How pleasant. The bad news is: it can't really be treated fully while I'm pregnant so the Dermatologist told me I will have it for a few months. It's so horrible everyone. Poor Todd has to hear my complaints day and night. Luckily, my OB put me on a corticosteroid pack that she felt would be totally safe and that is supposed to help so we'll see. Poor Stella. I hope she doesn't come out spotted with poison ivy. She is so sweet. She loves to kick all day and I love it. I can't wait to kiss on her and snuggle her. I am now 30 weeks along so only 10 to go! I hope the ten weeks go by really fast because I am getting too excited. I watched TLC's "A Baby Story" today and when they went to the hospital I was crying. Then when she got the epidural I was crying, then when the baby came out, you guessed it, I was crying my eyes out. I'm feeling a little nervous but mostly just so excited. I can't wait for Todd and I to bring her home and have our own little baby. I'm getting great practice being kept up all night between poison ivy scratching and bathroom breaks so we should be good there. That's all folks!

600 Pounds lighter. Did I say pounds? I meant dollars.

2009-06-11T19:57:00.000-07:00

Oh Pook. Today I was feeling a little down and decided I needed to get out and get myself some maternity clothes. Living in this strange Council Bluffs, I was sure there are no maternity stores around here but to my most pleasant surprise, I found some over in Omaha. Sorry but I'm not willing to wear Todd's T-shirts any longer. Also/Mostly they don't really fit me anymore but whatev. So I made my way out to West Omaha to do a little shopping thinking 200 bones ought to do it. Well, I was seriously mistaken and Todd has just come home from work which means: that in order to keep him from getting the computer and looking up our online bank history, I have to blog from now til I die so he will never know... ha ha ha. The good news is, I have lots of sassy outfits from here on out. Why doesn't Banana Republic have a maternity store? Wouldn't that be the best? Alright well, that's all for now. Wish me luck!

PS Mandy I am still so sorry you didn't get an invite to the shower. I feel horrible.

28 Weeks and Counting!

2009-06-07T19:45:00.000-07:00

Isn't she adorable??? I love her so much. In every single ultra sound I have had, she always has her hands up by her face. It's her favorite spot. And this one was no different. That hand never really moved. What a sweetie!
I think she has my nose and chin... maybe Todd's mouth but I can't tell for sure. She is so pretty!
This picture is so sweet. She is so tired in there!
Yikes... here I am at 28 weeks 1 day. The baby weighs 2 and a half pounds and I have gained 30... What the crap? Where is the other 27.5???????
Alright we have FINALLY made it to 28 weeks... almost 30. Then there are only 10 weeks left to go!!!! HOORAY! Todd and I went to an appointment with a specialist on Friday and we got some awesome pictures. They do these 3D ultra sounds that are the BEST thing ever. It was so fun. Stella is already so cute I can't stand it. I had to take pictures of the pictures so they aren't the most clear thing ever but you get the idea. My stomach is getting pretty big and slightly uncomfortable. I am trying to keep the complaining to a minimum because I know it is going to get a LOT worse in the next 2 months. Yikes... Todd is tired of the pillows on our bed. He has 2 pillows and I have 7. That's right 7. And I actually have use for all of them. My arms go numb every night from sleeping on my side. I have seriously had it with not being able to sleep on my stomach or back. My favorite thing ever is when the baby kicks. It is so fun. She kicks like crazy during movies and then in the night. I think she has already established a schedule because it's always at the same times. Mostly any time I want to be sleeping she's awake. I love it. I am getting so excited that time is going so slow again. I had such a fun baby shower while I was home in Utah that I blogged about already and that only made my excitement worse! I have so many fun gifts that mother will be driving out in July. I can't wait to show Todd everything. We are so excited to be having a baby girl. We already love her so much and can't wait to meet her.

Home Sweet Home

2009-06-07T19:38:00.000-07:00

I had the best time in Utah during my latest visit if you can't tell. I stayed for 10 days and this is what my sisters and I did for much of the time. It really doesn't get better than this! The only bad news was, those two dogs for some reason LOVE me even though I am allergic to them and can't touch them so they were jumping all over my lawn chair the entire time.
I finally broke down and bought a maternity swim suit as my old ones were looking less than flattering. Gross.
This is at a baby shower that my wonderful aunts threw me while I was there. I got a loot like you wouldn't believe! My mom is driving all of my presents out in July and I can't wait to see it all again. It was so fun to see everyone but I wish that I could have talked to you all more. I see everyone so rarely and I miss you!
My #1 fan and best grandma already. Grandma has already bought so much stuff for Stella. I think that she gave me as many gifts as everyone at my shower combined... ha ha she had done 3 HUGE baskets full of clothes, toys, 2 home made quilts, and the list goes on. I feel so lucky to have a mom that is so excited about our baby. My mom is coming hopefully the day before she's born (if everything goes as planned which it never does but dare to dream eh?) and then she will stay for two weeks. Todd will be going back to work probably a day or two after the baby is born and I think I won't really be too concerned about it if mother is there to help me and be with me. I'm so excited!
My two lovely crotch grabbing aunts. I love them both! The shower was at Aunt Karen's house and I know that it took a ton of work. THANK YOU!
My two wonderful sissies. It was so good to see them! I have missed them like crazy. The good news is, I think I talk to them more on the phone now than I did when I lived home. I talk to them both several times a day. It's really nice. I love you girls!
Tia, Kaylie and I all anxiously awaiting Trent's plane to land! He came home from his mission in Carlsbad California. I missed him like crazy while he was gone and we are best texting friends. I love Trent and I'm so glad he is home and had such an awesome mission!
Tia made some pretty sweet signage. She really went all out.
HERE HE COMES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Aunt Robie has never been so happy I think... It was definitely the longest 2 years of her life.
At his welcome home party later that night.
So this picture didn't really turn out but oh well. Casey is working for the Salt Lake Chamber being an event planner for the summer and so she gets us sweet tickets to events. This was taken at the Grand America Hotel at the "Giant In Our City" Award while I was home. It was really fun.

Normally, I would never have posted this offensive picture of myself but it's the only documentation I had of this fun lunch date. It was so good to get to see Trent for a few hours before I came back to Iowa. Also, I'm glad Casey came. She had a little flu but sacrificed for the team and came with me so I didn't have to drive alone. What a good sis.

Now, this is back in Iowa and so funny. Upon my return, I decided that I wanted to love sac brought up from the basement because we never use the basement and that thing wasn't cheap! Plus, it's my favorite cuddle spot. So, while Todd's friend Spencer was here visiting with his Fiancee Heather, I had them move it up. It was quite an event.

Yes, Spencer really is checking his heart rate. Gotta make sure he wasn't at risk of a heart attack or something. So funny. Spencer and Heather are moving to Council Bluffs in September after their wedding because Spencer is going to work for Todd's dad. How exciting!!!! Our first friends here! Ha ha except that we had to import them. Whatever we are so excited. We finally have people that will play games with us. We love games! A lot of people around here would rather drink though and we're trying to quit... ha ha.

5 months in Iowa and still alive.

2009-05-04T14:35:00.000-07:00

So I have been living here in Council Bluffs for 5 months and things are going well. I wanted to give everyone a little update on some facts and funnies about this place and what I'm up to.

1. I am selling lots of inventory for the Motorsports dealership on eBay. It's nice to be working and have a schedule.
2. One morning on my way to work, the local radio was doing a little morning show about taxes and they wanted people to call in and confess the craziest thing they have used as a write off. So this guy calls in and he is probably no more than 25 and has this awesome hic accent that you can barely understand and he claims that he wrote of his dentures. He said it "ma dintures". I cringed. Why are you 25 and have dentures?
3. There is only one lake in the area and it's called Lake Manawa and apparently it was overrun a few years ago by some nasty green slime. Ha ha and people still boat there. They now call it "Lake Mana-swamp" You keep boating, I'll keep my gynological health.
4. Todd takes me to Omaha on dates and I love it. It's just like Salt Lake. The further west you go, the nicer it gets and I really like being over there.
5. My front yard looks like a petting zoo of black and brown squirrels, rabbits and deer.
6. Here the only movie that has sold out in the last like 2 years is Fast and the Furious. Ha ha it's so fitting!
7. The people here are really nice for the most part. Very helpful and always wanting to chat. I like that.
8. I have heard tornado sirens twice while I've lived here and the season hasn't even really started yet. Very scary.
9. I still miss my sisters, mom and dad.
10. My belly is getting really big and I love it. Sometimes it scares me though. I love feeling our little baby kicking. She loves hearing piano music and when I eat orange juice.

I will add more to this post as thoughts come to me.

Thankful...

2009-04-19T20:06:00.001-07:00

Yes everyone it is true! I have the best parents in the world. While they were here in Council Bluffs visiting me and coming to see the Opera, they also bought Miss Stella her crib and dresser. She is so happy to have Grannies and Grandpies that love her so much already. I was dead set initially on a dark wood crib, but my Dad found this one and liked it so he showed it to me, and I loved it! It's just Stella's style I already know it. My dad, mom and Todd assembled it and I am thrilled! It looks so good.
Coming to life with Granny posing by her gift.
Little Stella's baby corner. I am getting more impatient now that I have everything for her. Look how cute the mobile is!!!! So adorable.
These are her first dollies. A doll and a little lamb.
This is the mobile and her bedding. The bedding is exactly what I wanted. I love it so much!
Yet another view. The crib is the best!
This is her dresser and changing table. The hanging thing is a diaper stacker. I'm not sure I will really use it but whatever, it's adorable.
These are some cute blankets. The pink one from mom and the other from a sweetie at Todd's work. This rocking chair is Todd's Grandma Edwards so it's kind of a special little chair.
This is Stella's little piggy from Grandma. I had one stuffed animal when I was little and if any of you know me, then you already know what it was! My pink pig that the Brewer's would throw in the fire place and pretend to light it on fire. Thoughtless dopes. This is the cutest pig ever.
Baby's corner... Not quite the baby's room because this room is also functioning as our guest room. Our house only has two bedrooms so they will have to share.

Saying goodbye. Always so sad! Their visits never last long enough. Thank you Mom and Dad for everything you do! I am so lucky to have you guys. I love you!

The Opera...

2009-04-19T19:52:00.001-07:00

Mother and Dad came into town this week to see me in Puccini's "La Boheme". It was fabulous! We had so much fun. I was a Coquette (fancy name for Hooker) and a Milkmaid. Lots of people came to support me and I loved it. Hopefully someday I will have a bigger role. It is a start though! I am over 5 months pregnant and it wasn't way too obvious. I will say my costume got progressively tighter every performance. Today was the last show and I am glad it's the last time I have to put on those costumes.

Mother and I. I already miss her so much! I loved having her here but it's quite traumatic when she leaves me.
The best parents ever.
My supportive sweetie. He is so loving to sit through Opera's for me!

These are pictures of my coquette outfit. Not super attractive from up close I suppose. I have no waist but whatever. All for a good cause! And the wig is slightly offensive looking. Shall I go red?

This is my Milkmaid outfit. This one is pretty cute I think. A less crazy wig also. I almost died of heat stroke in these outfits. It was so HOT onstage. It was really fun to be in a main stage production. Quite different than college...

Today...

2009-03-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

I feel very homesick. I miss my mom, dad, sisters, BYU Singers and cousins. The BYU Singers reunion is this weekend and I hate that I'm missing it. I started singing with Opera Omaha today and it was really nice to get back into a singing routine. However I will say that a group rehearsal just is NOT the same without my favorite group of people and my favorite Dr. Staheli. I have been too spoiled. I want to go clothes shopping for my new baby but my shopping partner Mother is too far away. I wish she were here too "ooh" and "ahh" over things with me. I think she's the only person as excited as I am and what fun is it to shop by yourself? I wish she was here. I miss you all!

Some very lovely news...

2009-03-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

Hello dearest loved ones... so there is some lovely news for us all to know. Todd and I found out that we are having a baby girl! YAHOO!!! While I was in Utah, I went with mother to Fetal Foto so that mom could see the baby since she never gets to see it in Iowa. They made us the best 10 minute movie I have ever seen and it was so fun. My mom couldn't sit because she was too excited. Anyway, I'm only 4 months along but the pictures and movie were so obvious they could tell it's a girl. We were nervous about trusting the girls at Fetal Foto so we took the pictures to my cousin Michelle who reads ultra sounds and she said that indeed it is very clear. (Don't be alarmed I made sure they didn't tell us what it was but instead, seal it in an envelope for me to take home and open with Todd.)We are so excited! The baby sucked her thumb the entire time and was the cutest thing I've ever seen.

Prego Woes...

2009-02-27T09:46:00.000-08:00

For those of you with a weak stomach... stop right here. Alright so since I'm alone here in Iowa, I need to share these experiences with my friends so readers beware! I have had a semi rough pregnancy with severe nausea. It makes it so I can't sleep at night and it's terrible. So, the Doc put me on Zofran and I was sure I was healed. This was roughly two weeks ago that I began taking this blessed pill. Well, turns out, this pill also stops you up if you know what I mean. I have had SERIOUS bathroom problems since I started taking it. Therefore I am on day 12 of NOTHING. My doctor and I chatted about this and she told me to take this crazy oral laxative and I took it about ten minutes ago and I'm awaiting the results in fear. FEAR. She also told me to plan on staying in for a minimum of 8-12 hours. Now we can all wait together. I'll keep you posted.

Picture Tag by Jodie

2009-02-25T13:07:00.000-08:00

Ok I love tags. They are so entertaining. So the 4th picture in my 4th folder is this beauty... Todd on his mission running through a lovely field of weeds in Ashton Idaho. Ha ha ha love it. I think he is running back from slapping a cow on the buns. Or baptizing it. It was 8 alright?

Sweet new job...

2009-02-25T12:46:00.000-08:00

Alright so I thought that between my picture posts I would inform everyone of my latest news. I start singing for Opera Omaha on March 21st which should be super fun. I figured I won't be showing by then so I didn't bother telling them I'm prego. That may have been a mistake as I am already sticking out just a pudge. Awesome. I am also starting work in 2 weeks at Classic Chevrolet updating and managing their website. Do I know how to do that you ask? No it wasn't really part of my education as a Vocal performance major but I better figure it out before I start. Yikes. It will be nice to get a schedule going because I get a little bored these days. I am very excited to be pregnant. It's so exciting I can't even wait for the next few months to zip right by. I am coming to Utah to visit this Monday and I hope to see all my loved ones!

Pics

2009-02-12T11:10:00.001-08:00

Those are the only acceptable pics at this point. My bedroom is in shambles right now but I will clean and post tomorrow. Also the electricians are ripping apart our living room and kitchen so I will post those pictures later also. They should be done today. Love you all!

2009-02-12T11:06:00.001-08:00

These pictures are of Mother's bedroom. Finally got most of the boxes put away. Beautiful bedspread if I say so myself. Does everyone love the blue rug? It's so in right now.

More pictures

2009-02-12T10:58:00.000-08:00

Ok this is a picture of our front yard... Todd thinks I am going to be mowing this at 7-8 months pregnant. HA. No gracias.

Drumroll Please...

2009-02-12T10:48:00.000-08:00

Ok So it's no where near done... obviously. The room that is closest would be the bathroom. We put in marble floor and shower thanks to Todd's brother in law Ben. Plus had all the walls skim coated because they were disgusting and unpaintable, then we painted and the only thing waiting is the cabinets need to be painted (obviously they are hateful blue) and then we are putting in a second sink. Love the bathroom!

Finally...

2009-02-12T09:14:00.001-08:00

Alright so I take all of the proper preparations for posting pictures (meaning digging out all my chords in boxes and figuring out how to do it) and I get all ready.... and the camera dies. So, it's charging and I will be posting the pictures in a few short hours.

WELCOME TO...

2008-12-28T15:41:00.000-08:00

Well folks, we have arrived. I have been far too busy for blogging as of late but I finally got a minute to sit down at the computer. We got in on Dec. 19 and were able to move right into our beatiful yellow house. It is so cute. It sits up on a hill and has a super long driveway. It has a forest in the back yard and a whole acre of beautiful grass in the front yard. I will be putting in a garden as soon as it's warm. I absolutely love it. The outside of the house is bright yellow. Fresh bright yellow so it doesn't look old or anything. I will post pictures asap. The inside needs a little help... a sweet old lady lived there for 60 years and she took pristine care of it but she LOVED blue. Baby, easter-egg, and powder blue. Everything is a shade of blue: ceiling, carpet, countertops, cupboards, floor, wall paper, closet doors, rugs, EVERYTHING. Therefore, we are working on a few remodels. It is so nice because everything in the house is new and in such great condition.

It has indeed been a very emotional few weeks. My family came here to help us move in and when they left I thought I was a dead woman. I could not stop crying. Then the next morning came and I was feeling better. The good news is, I feel so excited to go home and for them to come visit me. It also makes me feel way more grateful for my mom and dad. Especially my mom. It's hard not having her around all the time when I need her. I do get to talk to her on the phone though. I always considered myself so independent til I moved away. Now it's a HUGE adjustment. I've realized I am definitely a momma's girl now. I miss them all so much! I miss my sisters. I haven't really had much of a chance to miss Casey yet since she's been here visiting. WAHOO. She moved me in, stayed for a few days, left, and then flew back 4 days later. I love her! So far the weather here is deathly cold. I will have to get used to that one. It's pretty bad. I'm learning my way around. It's hard to be in an unfamiliar place and not know my way around anywhere. Thank Heavens for GPS. Love it. I love having my own house. Todd has been so sweet to me since we got here. He is the best.

We are staying with Todd's parents for now because we have a water leak in our new house. Figures eh? The plumber comes tomorrow so hopefully we will be moved in soon. I love you all! I will post pictures as soon as I can. I want you all to see everything.

What does a music major actually do?

2008-12-11T17:54:00.000-08:00

Alright so whenever I tell someone I was a music major they always get a little look on their face like "You're so lucky... you didn't have to do real work." Thus I have decided to post some of the songs from my Senior Recital so every knows what exactly it was I was doing all of those years. The requirements of a Senior Voice Recital are to be able to give a 60 minute program of yourself onstage singing non stop with a pretty large audience. You are also to sing in all four of the romantic languages which are Italian, German, French and English. There are at least 4 people in the audience writing writing writing. These four people are staring at you, pen in hand, waiting for you to make the slightest mistake and if you do, you can see the pens flying over the paper from the stage. Spooky. I prepared for about 10 months to give my recital and it was a crazy amount of practice but I PASSED!!!! Wahoo. The bad news is, if you don't get a high enough score you don't pass and you can't graduate. But I did it! Which is why I have time to write this blog instead of studying for finals right now like my beloved, Todd, who is in his last semester.

So, look to the right of this post and click on the link and you can hear a few of the songs. I will post the rest later when I remember my password to the site. ENJOY!

Baby names. A subject we women just can't avoid.

2008-12-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

This is stupid but kind of hilarious. The other night Todd, Casey, Joel and I went to the Jazz game with some friends. You know that third quarter boredom that hits like a rock when you're in your seat and your diet coke runs out... Anyway, my creative juices started flowing around my brain and I came up with such a cute baby name. So I decide to tell Joel and get a valued opinion. Here's how the conversation goes (and he's sitting next to me).
Ryann: Hey Joel what do you think of this name for a girl... Rhett
Joel: What?
Ryann: Rhett
Joel: What???
Ryann: Rhett!
Joel: Red?
Ryann: NO Rhett!!!!
Joel: Wet???
Ryann: Wow. (Eyes back on the game. Sipping on my empty drink.)
Needless to say I will be choosing another name in order to save my future unborn (unmade) child from ever having this ridiculous conversation.

BULLS EYE

2008-12-03T11:56:00.000-08:00

So I keep forgetting to post about it. Probably because I have blocked it from my mind but I have to tell everyone. Just so you know, when I go to post something important, I first look for awesome pics online to augment my post. But this post is about KILLER DOGS and when I searched for the images, I almost cried. Therefore, I am not posting a picture to save you all the pain. I'm sure you can all image the following.

Picture this: Chilly night. Todd and I going to the mall. Dark outside. Got it? Ok. So we pull into the University Mall parking lot which is ALWAYS busy. So busy you hate going there. But this particular evening we couldn't avoid it. Todd needed a white shirt for Jenny's wedding. Hoorah! Anyway, we head down a parking row and park about 3 spaces away from a crappy truck that has an open bed with some roll bar things. So there are two killer dogs in this truck. One in the cab and one in the open back that is barely tied up with just a rope. Just a ROPE. It was the meanest dog I've ever seen. It was like a mixture of every killer hateful dog. Rottweiler, Bull Dog, Doverman, whatever else is a mean dog. Also when it would stare you down barking like crazy, the hairs on the back of it's neck would stand up and it would just drool thinking about eating your throat. So scary. So Todd and I rush past the truck but notice a security guard scoping it out. We were in the mall for probably 15 minutes and when we came out, there were two cop cars parking directly behind the truck and as we were about 5-6 yards away from the truck, the cop pulls out an orange RIFLE (the one with the bean bag pellets) and shoots the dog from about an 8 foot range. WHAT???????????? My initial reaction was to cry because I was so sad except for that the dog jumped out of the back of the truck and of course the rope around the neck easily broke and the dog escaped! A killer dog on the loose in Provo that is seriously cheesed off running to the nearest elementary school. I investigated further and there was a sizeable blood trail. AHHHHH. Then Todd got mad at me for taking pictures of the crime scene while the Police were trying to solve the mystery so we had to go home. Moral of the story: Don't bring your killer dog to a public parking lot idiot. I bet the owner is seriously pissed when he comes to find out that his dog has been shot, and also escaped and that he has a fat fine for being such a loser citizen.

Less Good News...

2008-12-02T11:09:00.000-08:00

Crap I am the worst picture poster ever. I got too busy last night going to the movie Australia and it was SO GOOD. Everyone go see it. The little boy is so cute I'm going to write him a letter and see if he wants to come live with me. But he has to always talk in that accent. Those are the conditions. Then, I watched Grey's Anatomy, Season 1 with my lover named Todd. I'm surprised that he likes the show so far. As soon as it starts getting sappy I think he'll like it less.
The bottom line is, I will get the pictures done today. I have to take them to get developed and put on a CD because it's the only way I know how. I am NOT technology savvy.

Good News...

2008-12-01T12:49:00.000-08:00

No I'm not pregnant. BUT, I am going to get all of mine and Todd's pictures over the last year developed today so I will be posting about our last year's fun. I know you all can't WAIT. ha ha

A Message From the Critics...

2008-11-25T12:22:00.000-08:00

TWILIGHT

IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN TWILIGHT AND ARE PLANNING TO SEE IT DO NOT READ THIS
So my sweet Dad bought everyone in the family tickets to Twilight, opening night at the Gateway. AWESOME. Everyone was so pumped, especially Todd and his brother Joel who accompanied my sister. (That's a whole different blog for a later date and time.) Ok so we go out to eat and have an absolutely lovely evening waiting for the show to start. My dad is the BEST and we all had so much fun. I still must say my peace/piece. The first awesome thing that happened is as the lights were dimming, my wonderful husband screamed in his manliest voice "Edward I love you!" Awesome.
-Initial Reaction from the Moment it Started:
What the hades is this music playing? Completely WRONG mood setter.
Some of my concerns as the movie went on go like this: 1. The first time Bella sees Edward in the classroom, I almost fell out of my seat laughing because it was so horrible. The music, lighting, and his reaction were like the icing on the anthrax cake of movie making. 2. When Bella and Eddie make out in her room and things get heated and all the sudden her pants are off? What just happened? Did I fall asleep and miss something? Nope she's just in her panties. 3. Bella and Edward had too many awkward conversations. She grunted every time she stammered to say something and I kind of wanted to punch her. And sometimes Edward seemed like he wasn't mentally all the way there.
OTHER THAN THAT:
I have to admit I enjoyed it. Bad music, Bad acting, bad budget, bad graphics-BUT IT'S SO GOOD!!!!!!!!!! So none of that matters. I love the story. I had so much hope for the movie. The second one will be better I think. I want to know what everyone else thought of it. Todd thought is was good for a low budget film and wasn't as painful as I make it seem. My mom LOVED it and she is usually very critical of movies so that's good. Jenny and I sort held each other between our hysterical laughing and it was awesome. Tell me what you guys think!

T Minus 4 Hours

2008-11-21T15:51:00.000-08:00

TIL I SEE TWILIGHT. I just had to let everyone know. I'll blog about this when I return from the weekend.

Simple Weightroom Ethics. I guess it's harder than it seems.

2008-11-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

Alright friends. There is something I just have to say. So for my birthday this year, my beloved husband Todd bought me a 3 month personal trainer. Which I was thrilled about. So, there has been a trend that I've noticed around the gym during my solo weight lifting work outs. During my workouts I'm basically in the middle of the "muscle man domain" and I feel like they try to muscle me around. Meaning that if I'm walking toward a machine they want, they'll hurry faster to steal it from me. Just things like that. They are totally inconsiderate. I guess it's all those steroids and that overflowing testosterone from having so many MUSCLES.
WELL TODAY I WAS DONE WITH IT!!!!!!!
So here's the story.
I was working out on that machine that has the little pulley that can be moved up or down to the floor... usually one works out triceps on it.... Anyway, I had waited for like 2 minutes for this girl to get done with the rope thing that hooks up to it because the gym doesn't have enough of them. I sat the rope thing on a holder while I had another metal thing hooked up to it and my back was to it. So, I see these ridiculous boys with their sweatbands and their shaved legs and their spiked hair and too tan skin sneaking suspiciously around me. Well, when I wasn't looking they STOLE my rope thing I was using.
Normally, I would just be annoyed and figure out another way to do the workout. BUT NOT TODAY!
I was DONE with their antics.
So what did I do you ask?
I walked to the other side of they gym where they had set it up and I bent down and started taking it and one muscle fiber says to me "Uh, I'm using that" in his most annoyed voice. And I said very sassily "Yeah well I was using it when you took it from me. So thanks." And I took it and walked away with a smile on my face. No more will I accept their attitude. If you think you are so hot because you frequent the tanning booth, spend less time doing your hair and more time finding a girlfriend because we all know you and your bud are single.

If you like Twilight...

2008-11-12T12:11:00.000-08:00

Alright everyone. This blog is of utmost importance. Words cannot describe the awesomeness of this book. First, we need to get a few things out of the way.
1. This book may have the fizzle bomb in it like 10 times or something.
2. It has a somewhat sensual nature, but nothing your mom wouldn't enjoy. It's hard to explain-nothing sick but it makes you smile a LOT and you have to call your sister and read it to her on the phone because you love it so much.
I read Todd excerpts all the time and he pretends to think I'm lame but really he probably reads the books while I'm at work.
3. There may or may not be a steamy Teacher-Student love affair but the student is older and the teacher is way young so it's not gross. You will LOVE it.
4. I'm going to rate this book an 8th grade reading level which makes it pure entertainment. You don't have to re read any paragraphs by any means. Except for the ones with the kissing because they are too good to just read once.

With that said: It is better than Twilight! It is less sappy and more awesome. Twilight got a little too lovey dovey for my taste. Too much swooning. This book has more action, more awesome vampire tricks/powers, and more kissing! WHOO WHOO!
There are 4 books so far in this series and I have read them all and coming from someone who often prefers a good mag over a novel you have to trust they are good. I couldn't put them down! The books are only 8 dollars so you really should think about it. If you hate them, I will hold myself personally responsible.

CAT-this shout out is for you. You will like it.
Jodie- You will also like it.
Shelley-You will also like it. I know what books you read! ;)

It's All About 7

2008-10-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

7 TV Shows I Love To Watch:

1. Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders
2. Home Improvement-you gotta love brad!
3. The Office-any and every episode
4. Lock Up-Raw (that show keeps me out of jail because it's so scary.)
5. The Hills
6. Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency-this one should have been #1
7. Animal Planet anything

7 Things That Happened Yesterday:

1. Lifted weights with my personal trainer Kjell. She's the bomb.
2. Hung out with my sister Casey
3. Went to work and argued with ridiculous brain dead people all day.
If you don't want parking tickets, park legally.
4. Watched The Office
5. (the obvious) woo woo!
6. Talked to my friend Shelley on the phone. Love her.
7. Went to Best In Music. I love that store so much. I could spend hours there.

7 Favorite Places To Eat:

1. Cafe Rio-Costa Vida any day of the week
2. Baskin Robins
3. Wienerschnizel-so gross and so delicious
4. Olive Garden-Zuppa Toscana is the best.
5. Joe's Seafood in Las Vegas-the Salmon is amazing!
6. Anywhere that has Diet Coke
7. My own house when I make Chicken Taco's

7 Things I'm Looking Forward To:

1. Todd graduating and us starting our new adventure.
2. Moving to Iowa and being a grown up.... I think.
3. My mom coming to visit. I already miss her!
4. Starting a family
5. Celebrating Halloween tonight with Todd and my hilarious Dad
6. Jenny's wedding to Spencer Spenlick
7. Going to Las Vegas on Tuesday for the Scema Car Show.

7 Things On My Wish List:

1. To find a house that I love in my price range. And then to decorate it!
2. To hate chocolate.-Curse those Hershey's kisses
3. To find a good voice teacher in Iowa
4. To be able to give at least 2 free voice lessons a week.
5. That a third presidential candidate will just appear out of thin air.
6. I wish childbirth will be painless.
7. I will be in the Omaha Opera Company in the next couple of years.

In Vain

2008-10-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

Alright, normally I am opposed to South Park but this is too hilarious. The other night, it was on and it was an episode where Cartman gets frozen for a billion years or something and he gets defrosted in the far future. Well, in this future they only believe in Science which is where this fantastic phrase comes to LIFE. For some of us, there are phrases we do not say in Vain. I have a substitute that will work wonders. The latest and greatest phrase I came across during this episode which I am committed to using is: Drumroll please
"Oh My Science!"

Really in no particular order.

2008-10-10T14:59:00.000-07:00

Things I would rather be doing than working right now:

1. Watching "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" with a giant bag of Kit Kat's.

2. Making counterfeit bills. You know, BENJAMINS. Not just any old bill.

3. Watching "E! top 10 Political Sex Scandals" I'm sorry but I am obsessed with the blue dress!
I hope they sell it on E-bay. I'll go as high as 10 pence.

4. Singing the "Knowlton Colt" anthem from elementary. "Hamburgers, Hamburgers,
FRIES TO GO"

5. Running for President. I have a sweet idea for a new and improved Healthcare system.

6. Lunching with Sarah Palin and finding out how the crap she gets her hair so SHINY.

7. Living the life of the character Nicholas Cage plays on the National Treasure movies. That is
my FANTASY! I just want to break into Buckingham Palace and steal the Queen's DESK!

8. Watching any episode of "The Office". Seriously any episode will do.

9. Ooh... also, living the life of Helen Hunt on Twister. And Bill would be played by Todd.
And we would just chase tornado's in our giant truck everyday and kiss under the overpasses.

10. Hmmm... ten. This one better be good. I think I would... YES! Be reading any kind of
sensual Vampire book. Preferable geared toward high school teens like the House of Night
novels I'm reading right now. They are so good! If anyone loves a pervy but not hookery
books-PG16 I'll say, give me a call and I'll direct you.

Spook-a-look

2008-10-10T13:18:00.000-07:00

YES! My favorite time of year has arrived. What is more fulfilling then paying anywhere from 15-30 dollars to get chased by a man with a fake chain saw? They are so LOUD that it's worth it. The good news is, tonight I have convinced Todd to take me to the CASTLE OF CHAOS on a date. More good news is, you have to sign a waiver so they can physically assault you and you have to wear old clothes so the BLOOD doesn't stain your nice clothes. The anticipation is killing me. Apparently it's the scariest one in Utah. The following quote is taken directly from the website:
and I quote:

"The Ultimate-X-Scream will mess you up for life!". Yes, it is THAT scary. What is scarier than a fat man dressed in a doctor outfit with fake blood spilled on his uniform, chasing you with his PRODDER!

This brings me to a new topic of discussion:
Anyone looking for some dirrrty entertainment for this Halloween season? And I don't mean dirty in any sense of the word. I mean Christina "dirrty". If you are, I highly recommend "The Howl" at Utah State. You can go as a Newborn if you so desire and wear nothing but an umbilical chord. Lucky you. This is also the place for you if you are looking for some underaged hotties. All the high school girls flock to this hormone charged event. And there are A LOT of athletes just waiting to take you home to their house, I mean dorm where they can woo you on their twin sized bed with sheets that haven't been washed probably since their mom dropped them off. Sounds good eh?

Beary Scary

2008-07-10T19:12:00.000-07:00

I am going camping this weekend and that means only one thing. It is time to psych myself out over the possibility of being malled by a bear and remaining awake through the entire attack. Last night it took me several hours to fall asleep because I kept thinking of how I would protect myself from the grizz. And then it came to me. So today I made Todd take me to a sporting store and buy me two mace guns. I will keep one at my feet and one around my neck. I will let you all know if we return safely. It will be a sweet trip. We are going to run the green river on pool floaties and camp our little hearts out. Tents and all. Thank heavens I bought the "Adam and Eve" Sleeping bags. You do the math.

So long

2008-05-31T15:49:00.000-07:00

DUNN, DUNN, DUNN.... It has arrived. Summer. Headed to Lagoon? Don't forget that attending the theme parks can make us very aware of our "health". Before anyone heads out to the theme park for the summer, I wanted to remind us all of that creepy fear that your lap bar won't go down as far as you would like, or even as far as the person next to you. Does anyone else suffer from this fear? Maybe it's just me and if so, disregard this post. But I don't think I am the only one. Back to the old game I suppose, SUCK IN and push with all your might!
Happy coaster riding!

Twister anyone?

2008-05-29T20:34:00.000-07:00

Yes it's true. And by twister I don't mean the flirtatious game (junior high favorite). How everyone loves to touch each other. Todd and I are currently in Council Bluffs Iowa, where there is a crazy tornado watch. Yikes! I hope we make it. We will be here til June 10 while he brings in the dough and I... what do I do here?... well, nothing really. I sleep in, shop, attend the famous zoo (2nd largest in the nation or something), and what have you. I planted my first flower pot the other day. That was exciting. I got chased by a bee today. A real doozy.
I also just returned from Kansas city this afternoon. Todd took me there to attend "World's of Fun" amusement park. It was way fun. There's more to do out here than you would think. THANKFULLY! I think running from tornadoes is by far the most exciting and, I think I hear the sirens... so I'm OUT.

The Brood

2008-05-28T15:31:00.001-07:00

This is the whole brood of the Edwards kids. They are the most fantastic kids on the planet earth and to this date I can't think of one single child that is more devious and cunning then Jack (front and center with the tipped pirates hat) No one knows how to work Grandma Edwards like Jack. For those of you who were wondering Todd and I will be adding to the clan in due time so everybody ease off the pressure cooker! Not to fear our kids heads will be the largest out there that just means that they'll have bigger brains and be harder to beat in a head butting contest. Who has the last laugh now!

Ah The Good Life

2008-05-28T13:55:00.001-07:00

Life is good here in Iowa but I do miss home. I am trying to give a little life to the blog so here are some pics!

Todd you are so wonderful!!! You are so loving...you are now so pooooor!! He is such a good husband. In case some of you can't read the fine print...that little sticky note is a nice sum of my student loans which Todd lovingly and selflessly paid off. Oh Honey you are so good.
Camping with the crew in the dead of....yes winter. This was not a mistake at all.

GRADUATED!

2008-05-12T16:07:00.001-07:00

I finally graduated. Five years later. I love it. Todd graduates in December and then we're moving to Iowa. That is a whole separate blog. I was going to miss the commencement and everything but I decided to go after all and I was glad. Now I have a degree in Vocal Performance and I'm not sure what I will do next. I ended the year with the BYU Singers tour to Southern California and it was a great experience. We traveled by bus for 2 weeks all over and sang at schools, hospitals, performance venues and even a place where children who have been removed from their homes live. It was a great experience. Let me briefly thank my family especially my Mom for all the support they gave me through the million years it took me to finish my degree..also thank you to my loving husband Todd for his support!

Welcome to the Blogging World

2008-02-19T20:32:00.001-08:00

Hey Everyone who loves and cares about this blog. My awesome sister Jenny came to stay for the weekend and taught me all the tricks and trades of the blogging life. So forgive me for the lack of updates and fun stories. I promise from here on out to be a more faithful blogger. RIP Old Ry and Todd cause we're here and we're new at blogging! Thanks Jenny for the love and support and training.

Pics soon to come!