Ben and Merridee

One Year

2011-04-22T21:19:00.001-07:00

I can't believe its already been a year. Parts of it were the slowest of my life, but I still can't believe how fast the time went. I have been filled with more emotions in the past year than I ever have before: frustration, anger, confusion, gratitude, desperation, resentment, sorrow, but most of all love. I realize my year's experiences have changed me, and I don't exactly love the feelings that I've had, but I have learned just how much you can Love someone.

We miss our baby every single day, but are so grateful that we had him in our lives for a short time, and I cannot wait for the day I get to meet him again.

BIG Changes!

2011-01-13T17:17:00.000-08:00

Some of you may already know, but for those of you who don't, We've had a few BIG changes lately. In APRIL ben is going to play BASKETBALL for the Manawatu JETS in New Zealand...He is very EXCITED! He'll be there until JULY, then he'll come back home. He's wanted this for a long time, and has worked very hard to get it. I just accepted a new job in Same Day Surgery at Intermountain Medical Center, I start January 24th. The BEST part is that I WON'T have to work any nights, weekends, or HOLIDAYS!!! I'm very nervous but also VERY excited to make a change. I will miss all of my friends at IMSU, and am grateful for the experience of working in such an amazing place.

Grateful

2010-12-20T14:10:00.000-08:00

This past week Ben and I were thinking of all of the things we are GRATEFUL for. We've been blessed with so many TENDER Mercies from the LORD.

I am grateful for: *The Past 4 years I've had to spend with BEN, and the ETERNITY we have to look forward to (It was our anniversary Last Thursday) *The experience of becoming a MOTHER and feeling LIFE inside me, even if it didn't last as long as I would have liked *FAMILY- I can't imagine life without them and their SUPPORT *Friends- I have made so many good FRIENDS working on the Infant Unit, they have seen and supported me through some of my darkest hours (same with Ben and My Family) *Deanna and her being KIND enough to give us her 2 extra Tickets to the Mormon Tabernacle CHOIR Christmas Concert....David Archuleta was AMAZING! *That our server Messed up our order so Ben got a 16oz STEAK for the price of an 11oz *The respect and REVERENCE 30,000 people give the PROPHET when he walks in the auditorium *PEPSI, and that it cures my anxiety (too bad I am quitting, AGAIN) *For the Lesson My GRANDMA gave me in making DIVINITY, which also makes me grateful for Electric Mixers! *Last But not Least, Jesus CHRIST and the ATONEMENT, that through him I can have the opportunity to raise my SON someday!

I Hope you ALL have a VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Pain

2010-08-08T20:20:00.000-07:00

Spencer W. Kimball Said "Being human, we would expel from our lives physical pain and mental anguish and assure ourselves of continual ease and comfort, but if we were to close the doors upon sorrow and distress, we might be excluding our greatest friends and benefactors. Suffering can make saints of people as they learn patience, long suffering, and self-mastery."

Pain stayed so long I said to him today, "Be gone!

I will not have you with me any more!"

I paused there, startled at the look he wore.

"I who have been your friend," he said to me,

"I who have been your teacher- all that you know

Of understand love, of sympathy,

And patience, I have taught you. Shall I go?"

He spoke the truth, this strange unwelcome guest;

I watched him leave and knew that he was wise.

He left a heart grown tender in my breast.

He left a far, clear vision in my eyes.

I dried my tears, and lifted up a song

Even though he tortured me so long.

By: Anonymous

Karson's Story

2010-04-27T09:32:00.000-07:00

On January 11th, after trying for 2 years, we found out we were having a baby. I was convinced for the next 12 weeks that it was a girl, and Ben that it was a boy. I wasn't sure if he wanted a boy so badly that he had talked himself into it being one, or if he really thought is was. On April 19th, just over 18 weeks, we found out that we were in fact having a boy! We were so excited, we went to the store and Ben picked out a couple of pairs of basketball shorts so he could dress just like him. While I was driving home from work early on the 21st, the name Karson popped in my head. We had never talked about it, but something in the name just felt right. Later that day, I went into preterm labor. It was a terrifying experience, knowing from school, that it was just too early and there would be nothing they could do. I kept asking why it couldn't have been 3 weeks later, and he may have had a chance to be around longer. I'll know all the answers to my questions someday, but I'll have to wait a while for now. In the early morning of the 22nd, Karson was born. Fortunately he had already passed, so he didn't have to struggle. He was the splitting image of his dad, with the exception of his nose, which came from me. He was 9in, 6.8oz. We looked up the average size of a fetus at 18 weeks, and it said 6.5in long, so he was long, with broad shoulders, just like his dad. We decided to take Karson to Monroe, and have a small graveside service for him. We buried him next to his great aunt Carole who was also just a baby when she passed. Having a small service provided us with some of the closure we needed, and also left us with comfort knowing that he was among family in a peaceful place. Following the service, we began to be curious of the meaning of the name Karson. After looking it up, we learned that it means "free man." We both feel like this is an appropriate name for our baby. He won't have to endure the pain of the world we live in. He will always be free.
Family Picture
Karson and his dadI had cut all of the fabric for Karson's baby blanket the day before he came, so I had my mom make a couple of smaller ones with his fabric so we could swaddle him, and keep him snuggled.
We want to thank all of our family and friends. We couldn't make it through this difficult time if it wasn't for your support and prayers. We are still receiving flowers from family and friends. Each one brings new smiles to our faces. Thank you, they are all beautiful....

2009-10-03T20:43:00.000-07:00

One Sunday afternoon we went for a ride. There were wallabies everywhere. The previous Sunday, Ben's aunt Shelley and her family counted 174 on the same ride we went on. There are 3 in the picture below, you can kind of see that they are right infront a someone's house. This one actually had its pouch open with NO joey inside, but the picture is kind of gross, so I did this one instead. We saw the joey go 1/2 way inside, then come back out again. It is crazy!

Here are Josh, Ben and Michael riding on the Brisbane ferris wheel. It was pretty scary- I won't lie.

These are Ben's cousins Josh and Danielle, and their dog Scamp, Who is highly adored by the whole family.

Mike and Shelley Malouf- Ben's aunt and uncle. They were kind enough to let us stay at their house for a week. The whole family is very nice.

Brisbane temple- has an incredible view.

The View

This is the Ferris wheel we rode. You could see all of the city plus more!

Right through the city, there is a man made beach. It was very nice. There were BBQ grills along it for people to use. We actually went there for a BBQ on our last night there. We had a very good time.

Moreton Island is about 1 1/2 hour ferry boat ride away from the city of Brisbane. We went there and snorkelled the Wrecks. There were hundrends of fish.

This is Surfer's Paradise. It is on the Gold Coast. The waves were so fun to play in. They were one right after another. I could definitely see why it got its name.

While we were in Melbourne, we got to go to a Aussie Rules Football game. Which I must say is far more entertaining than American Rules! Ben was cheering for Collingwood, but they lost miserably!! It wasn't even close. We were lucky enough to get seats on the 4th row! It rained and was cold, but it was still pretty fun.

There were about 90,000 fans there! It was lound the whole time.

This is in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Unfortunately, not everything had started booming yet, but it was still beautiful.

Lots of different Colors everywhere.

Kookaburra

One lady told me that 1 bulb for the orange flowers cost 20$---They were everywhere. Good thing the Royals are Rich!

We drove down Great Ocean rode which was so Amazing.

We had a really Great time, and feel very fortunate to have been able to go. Hopefully it won't be long until we can go visit again. I met lots of Good people and had fun seeing a little of what Ben's life was like before the move to The states. There are many more pictures on Facebook, so if You want to see more Check it out!

UpDaTe!

2009-08-18T23:36:00.000-07:00

1- 4 Weeks until AUSTRALIA!!

2- We're ExcITed to go to MoNRoe for Brecken's BaPTIsm

3- Ben is now working at GoLD's GYm

4- We Got a NeW car is April ---its a HyUndAi Sonata

5- I cLEaneD and OrGanIZed our home for 10 hours yesterday

6-I'm starting SChoOl again on Monday

7- I'm About to BuSt out the smell of FaLL for my ScENtSy!

8- We decided to CAnCel our CAblE--It HasN't been Easy-- We miss the DVR!

9- We turned in Ben's ImmIGraTioN papers, so hopefully that's out of the way for 10 YEaRs!

10- LiVing on the 3rd FLooR is getting ReAllY OLD!

Hope You're All doing Well!

CoWAbuNgA!!!

2009-07-17T14:48:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I had my 3 older nieces come stay at my house. While they were here, we went to Cowabunga Bay. It was tons of FUN! We bought the 4 hour passes, and that was plenty long. Everyone was tired and ready to go right when our time was up. McKennaLaineeBrecken
This is the huge bucket of water that they drop about every 5 minutes. It drenches anything near it. For those of you who can remember the game, It feels just like you're running around a mouse Trap board. There are large buckets all over, and kids can tip them and soak the people walking below it. It was really fun I think you all should go try it at least once-

2009-07-07T02:27:00.000-07:00

For FATHER's Day this year we went to LAGOON to meet Ben's family. We had a BIG lunch, took pictures, then enjoyed the rides. We had a GOOD time even though it RAINED all day, but had to leave EARLY so I could go to WORK. On the 4th of JULY i got put on call and didn't even end up working at ALL! My friend CHAR invited Ben and I to come play games with her and family, and then to go to the Murray FIREWORKS. We had lots of FUN. Thank You Char. I love the 4th of July, it is one of my favorite holidays, right after Christmas (which is coming soon). We also decided to have a Sausage SIZZLE with our friends the FIEFIAS' followed by swimming. However, the guys decided they didn't want to go, so it was just Gina and I in the pool. But we had fun anyways.

What on Earth?

2009-06-01T18:42:00.000-07:00

Tonight while we were on a car ride, we saw this. It made me so nervous! They kept circling the draper, sandy and cottonwood heights area. With every circle they got lower and lower until they were maybe 1000 ft from our roof. They may have been l0wer. Everyone was outside wondering what was going on, and getting a little nervous. One man thinks he saw the airforce one symbol on the side. I'm not confinced, but I am wondering what on earth was going on!

Sorry its been too long, we'll do an update sometime soon!

We're Going DOWN UNDER!

2009-03-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

We have been talking about going for a while now, but the tickets are paid for and we're going in September! Ben is so excited, I'm pretty sure he was crying. I can't wait to go. I'm excited to see everything, and really excited to meet Ben's friends and family. Last week I went with to the Scrapbooking Expo and found some really cute Luggage. The bows are my favorite part.

6 Random Things-

2009-03-16T22:09:00.000-07:00

Rochelle was kind enough to tag me since I've done it to her a couple of times. She told me it was pay back, not because she really wanted to know anything about me:) Well not in that many words.

1- Post the rules on your blog. 2- List 6 random things about yourself. 3- Tag 6 people at the end of your post. 4- Let each person know they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1- I am currently trying to grow my nails out. My right hand is longer than the left and I'm really thinking of chopping them off. Can't stand it!!

2-As you may have seen my previous blog, I am trying to quit drinking Dr Pepper. Well after I broke that habbit, I switched to something a little stronger- Pepsi- Mmmmm

3-Everytime I see a crouton I think of my nephew Brigham. Whenever I have a salad with croutons on it, he steals them before I can even get one! Lepord skin makes me think of Lainee, Books remind me of McKenna. I find myslef looking for good books for her frequently. Pink and John deer remind me of Brecken, and anything cowboy has Miles' name all over it.

4- I'm so sick of my car. I want a new one real, real bad. Something bigger than a Saturn. Shouldn't be hard to find.

5- I think it is fun to make Ben learn songs to sing with me, like Nick and Jessica's Baby its cold outside. He doesn't love it so much.

6- I should be doing homework. I'll do Anything I can to procrastinate until the VERY last minute.

Now I tag- Annie, Laura, Katrina, Jackie, Jill (mom), and Matea

PAY IT FORWARD!

2009-02-28T16:16:00.000-08:00

The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice--for you! This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:
1. I make NO guarantees that you will LIKE what I make! (I can only hope)
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It WILL be done this year.
4. You have no CLUE what it’s going to be … it may be cards, a bookmark, something delicious or a complete surprise to you (and me!) … who knows?
5. Most importantly, you MUST offer the same deal on your blog - the first 5 people to comment on your blog get something made by YOU!

Happy Birthday!!!

2009-02-08T18:45:00.000-08:00

He still had a Hulk shirt until about two weeks ago when I chopped it up for my blanket. :)

Today Ben turned 24! I think he had a good day- We started partying on Thursday. We've had tons of friends and family over. Thursday he went to a Jazz game with Brother-in-law Rickie (it was his Birthday too) Friday we went to a Grizzlie's Hocky game. First time- it was FUUUN. There were many fights, broken sticks, and I think a guy even knocked out his front tooth. Ben's only complaint- the refs stopped the fights. Saturday we had Lunch with his family at Texas Road house. And today we've just stayed home and enjoyed. We went to sacrament with our friends the FieFia's. It is a Tongan ward. We didn't understand much but still felt the spirit as soon as they started singing. It was so Pretty!!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BEN!!!

Something New

2009-02-03T13:46:00.001-08:00

So I have been wanting this picture of the Manti Temple for so long! I finally decided to buy it. I just love it. Up in the corner, it says the Dedication date and that it was done by Lorenzo Snow. I think it is really pretty.

By the way- the air quality up here as been sooo Bad. I'm sure you've all seen it on the news. One night we went into the Jordan River temple, and when we came out, it was so bad you couldn't even see Moroni. And it only got worse. I think its great for Ben's asthma.

Australia Day 2009

2009-01-26T18:19:00.000-08:00

G-Day everyone and Happy Australia Day!

Merr' is at work, and before starting my nightly homework assignments I thought I would record how I was feeling especially homesick today as I was reminiscing over the 16 or so years I spent growing up in Melbourne.

Our home page is set to http://www.msn.com.au/ and it is my window to my home from up here in the United States. It has all the news programs and sporting updates you need from Aussie Rules Football to 60 minutes. I just watched a segment on how thousands of people from all over the world chose Australia as their country of citizenship. There were kids singing the vegemite song and congregations singing waltzing Matilda, not to mention dozens of yobbos spontaneously yelling "Aussie Aussie Aussie! Oi Oi Oi!"

So what do we do on Australia Day? Well it is an anniversary of the arrival of the first fleet in 1788, the unfurling of the British flag at Sydney Cove and the proclamation of British sovereignty over the eastern seaboard of Australia.

Like the 4th of July celeberations in the United States, we have parades, people become extremely patriotic and the menu mainly consists of 2 things: Snags and Beer.

I am very grateful to have lived in the United States for the past 5 and a half years, however It has been the hardest thing I have ever done. But I recieved the blessing of serving a mission in Columbus, Ohio and I fell in love with Merridee and she was brave enough to marry me! If only I could take her home to Melbourne so she could see how beautiful it is and enjoy 'the serenity'. I just know she would love it there. Hopefully that isn't wishful thinking and it can become a reality some day soon! Maybe I can win the lotto and move any of her willing family members there so she would be more willing!

I've included some youtube links for entertainment purposes, nothing like a good laugh!

Also a few quick trivial points:

Australia is the largest continent occupied by one nation and it is the least populated.

Population is approx. 20 Million (just under the population of Texas alone!

Australia is the only english speaking country to have made voting copulsory in federal and state elections. Statistically 95% of all citizens vote, the other 5% cop a fine!

The secret ballot box-the most prized symbol of democracy-was pioneered in Victoria (the state I am from) in 1856.

Australia is one of the most governed countries on Earth with one politician for every 20,000 Aussies.

The first life-saving club was founded in Sydney, NSW in 1906.
Microsurgery, the bionic ear and the pace-maker were all founded in Australia.

So even if you plan on living here forever, make sure you at least make one visit down under! You won't regret it! Hooroo...

http://video.msn.com/video.aspx?mkt=en-AU&brand=ninemsn&vid=bdee4adc-ac2b-43dc-bb44-0756fd8c1d5b - New citizens

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZGxG6r6I7i4 -A recent Vegemite commercial

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8jp-vn-HiM - Delta Goodrem's "Lost without you"

We recently saw her and she is amazing!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X_hqosNvv5E - Aussie Rules Football

http://maps.google.com/maps?q=29+the+seekers+cres.+Mill+Park&split=0&gl=us&oe=UTF-8&ie=UTF8&cd=1&ll=-37.650733,145.062618&spn=0.007169,0.013733&z=16&iwloc=addr&layer=c&cbll=-37.652168,145.062492&panoid=6ZtraIU1fu2PE5KlAcXH3g&cbp=12,174.85822805597195,,0,5

This link is a picture of the house we lived in back home in Melbourne.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzvQdcBTQmM - Aussie version of Jingle Bells

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy_TB6onHVE - this will get you there!

http://www.ausinternet.com/ettamogah/aussiewords.htm - Common Aussie Slang

If you can't click on the URL's then just copy and paste them up the top on your browser!

My sister and I when we were young'uns, and me at the zoo in Columbus.

Short and Dark!

2009-01-16T15:26:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally did it. I had had it with my hair, so I got a new do! Short and Dark!

Don't mind the wet spot in the middle of my back, It is from her washing out the coloring.

My New Project

2009-01-13T22:37:00.000-08:00

This is my T-shirt quilt I'm working on. I'm really excited that Ben gave me a sewing machine for Christmas! I haven't used it yet, but I have big plans for it. I've been wanting to make a blanket like this for a long time. These are most of the shirts that mean something to us. We just didn't want to get rid of them, so we figured "why not put them in a blanket?" Hopefully it will turn out well I don't know much about sewing yet, but I can't wait to learn. Ben was pretty Bummed that I chopped up his hulkamania shirt, but I convinced him he was too old for it, and that the yellow would add a lot to the quilt.

Christmas

2008-12-29T22:01:00.000-08:00

This year I was suppose to work on Christmas Eve and Chirstmas Day. I got lucky though. I worked half a shift on Christmas Eve (1-7:30 pm). I was so sad because I love Christmas and it just wasn't the same not being with family. But Ben and I had a good night. We decorated a Gingerbread house, ate a nice dinner, opened our new Pajamas, and exchanged our gifts. Ben got a X-box, and I got a sewing machine. We stayed up until 1:30 playing Indiana Jones Lego game on the X-box (because I accidently got playstation games instead of X-box, and the indiana Jones game came with it.) Then I decided since I had to get up in four hours it would probably be a good thing to go to bed. At five o clock, I got a call from the Charge Nurse saying they didn't need me to work, and that I was being cancelled. I was so happy! Neither of us could go back to sleep, so Ben suggested we leave for Monroe right then. We threw some clothes together and headed out. The roads were good for about 10 miles, then THE storm hit. The roads were crap, the sky completely white, No snow plows, people off the road all over, But our little saturn made it at a whopping 25 miles an hour. We were there in time for breakfast! Later that afternoon, we had dinner at Ben's mom's house. It was the first time in a while that all of the kids were together so it was nice. Then later that night we had dinner at my parent's house.

Our Gingerbread House ( Notice the smoke coming out of the chimney )

Here is Ben with all of his brothers

While we were visiting some of our friends in Richfield, Russ said "I guess you know you've made it when you own Guitar hero." I've been thinking a lot about that. I have been very ungrateful for all that I have been given. Ben and I have been Blessed with so much. Some people will never have the chance to even play guitar hero, let alone own their own x-box. SO, One of my New Year's resolutions this year, is to be more grateful and to realize just how much I have been blessed with.

This is what Christmas Is really about.

2 Year Anniversary!!!

2008-12-17T22:13:00.000-08:00

Just a QUICK intervention here from Merr's Dumbo Husband! I don't think "our son" (I'm naming him Sub-Zero) looks too bad! I think he is a combination of my little brother Blake and my Uncle Mark who lives in Canberra. I'm sure our kids will look just like the rest of the Miles Grandchildren though (to Merr's delight) :)
I hate to admit it, but once we had arrived home in Midvale I was happy to be there! It's such a long drive and it was hard to stay awake because Merr was cold and needed the heater on in the passenger seat, meanwhile the heater to me translated into little voices saying "Ben, you are in Hawaii lying down with a Strawberry Dacari (Virgin) and the sun is soo soothing it's making you sleepy!". Thank goodness we got home aye? I felt bad I couldn't buy you anything nice for our anniversary Merr but when I'm making million as a teacher (uhh) you'll get nicer things than free entertainment on the strip on the only snow storm of the year in Las Vegas and maybe we can afford to go to a show when they give you cutlery, what do ya reckon? I love you!
On the 16th, we had our two year anniversary. We decided to take a small vacation and catch some sun down in Sunny Las Vegas. Only it wasn't so sunny. We were actually there for a snow storm! Its just as cold down there as it is in Salt Lake City. Burrrr!!! We had a good time. I gambled for the first time, since I wasn't old enough last time we were there, lost three dollars (I don't know how people get addicted, they must win.) saw snow in Las Vegas, watch the Belagio water show, ate at the Tournament of Kings (I perfer to use utensils, not my hands) tried 16 flavors of the world (non-alcoholic) spent more money on a lunch than three whole meals put together (it was free thanks to the 3 hour long time share convention we went to.) Found out just how much money a Las Vegas Buffet cost (much to my horror) Ate M&M's infront of the Volcano at the Mirage, Saw how red lost his M in Las Vegas, did the gene machine and saw what our boys will look like (though Hopefully not) and realized how grateful we were to come back home to Utah. Its fun to leave, but always better to come back home.

Ben, Thanks for the last two years. Though not always easy, it was worth it. I'm looking forward to many more to come. You've been a great support to me, especially the last 6 months. You're my best friend and I can't imagine life without you. I Love You!!!

This is what our future son might look like according to the Gene Machine. Sorry it's blurry, I haven't hooked up my new printer/scanner yet, so it's a picture of a picture.

Here's a Slide of Our trip to Vegas, Enjoy!!!

2008-12-17T21:59:00.000-08:00

5 days and counting

2008-12-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

I have now made it FIVE days without a Dr. Pepper!!! For me, this is quite the accomplishment. I have tried to quit 4 times before, and the deliciousness of the cold liquid brought me back to it every time, but not this time. I'm quitting for good. Despite the horrendous Headache and the urge I have to drive to the gas station right now.

On another note, Ben and I made it through first semester with good grades and are enjoying having no school. Whoo Hoo!!!!

Elf Yourself

2008-12-06T13:11:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-01T19:55:00.000-08:00

While we were in Monroe for Thanksgiving, we went Christmas Tree hunting. It was very fun. The hills were a little steeper, muddier, and slicker this year than last, but it was still good. Since all we own is a Saturn, we brought it home Griswald Style. We couldn't get the saturn to go more than 70, but we enjoyed the long ride home.

Even though we got home at 1:00am, it didn't stop us from decorating right when we got home. I wanted to go to bed, but Ben was too excited, so we did it right then. Our apartment is a little small, and there wasn't much room for a tree, but I think we picked one the perfect size. It fit in the corner really well. I think it looks really pretty.

The Best part of it was waking up to the smell of a REAL christmas tree. Pine, I LOVE it!

Twilight

2008-11-24T23:29:00.000-08:00

Well the BiG wait for TwiLiGhT is over! Ben really wanted to see it at 12:01 am. We looked in eVeRy theater in Salt Lake county and Provo County, there was NOT a single ticket left! But there were lines and lines of people waiting in line to get a good spot. We were LauGHinG because most of them had their BoOKs in hand and were reading intently. Yeah we wanted to see it, but not that bad. I actually got invited to go and see it with some of my fRieNdS from SeViEr VaLlEy. I had so much FUN. I hadn't seen most of them for 5 months or so. We started the night off with dinner at El Mexicano and then went to the theater. I didn't like the movie much. In fact, not at all. What I had pictured in my head was completely diFFereNt than the movie. I was picturing drop dead GoRgRouS vampires, not mediocre looking vampires. But the company was good.

This is Cassidy and I, her eyes make mine look brown. These are some of my favorite people in this world. Above is Nanda and Cherry. Cherry hates pictures. I tried to tell her it would just be better if she'd pose. She didn't listen, and she looks guilty of something. Sorry Cherry. Next time just smile!

Heres April and Julie, and everyone at El Mexicano.

Hey everyone,

ThAnKs For inviting me I had a Blast. It was good to see everyone.

Our Weekend

2008-11-19T10:58:00.000-08:00

We had a pretty fun weekend, and I know I'm posting about it a little late, but I worked the last three nights and couldn't find the time in between shifts.

On Friday night my little sister Miranda came over with Kiley Jensen and we ate pizza, watched a movie and played scene it (Ben and I won Easily)

Then on Saturday we went to Park City for Natalie's birthday. They were staying in one of their friend's, from Austalia, condos. She must be rich because it was very nice, and very expensive!

The Bath Tub which was as deep as a hot tub and almost as big

The Kitchen which has all kitchen tools you could need. And deep sinks.

This is Natalie, She is about to blow out the candles. She turned 27.

This is Ben and His nephew Gabe, Natalie's baby. Though he isn't looking like a baby very much anymore.

Then on Sunday, Ben got called to be one of the Gospel Doctorine Teachers. He is excited. I'm glad that somebody doesn't mind doing it, because I would be a wreck the whole week before I taught. I would have to say no to that one. I got called to type up announcements for relief society and will also do the spotlights on different women in the ward. I guess that means I get to buy a new printer!

Tagged by Jenna

2008-11-05T21:45:00.000-08:00

Jenna Tagged Me, So here goes!

8 Shows I like to watch...
1. Ugly Betty Followed by
2. Grey's Anatomy- Although I may have to quit watching this, because the whole lezbian thing is not my cup of tea. I'm quite disgusted with it right now.
3. Seinfeld- Every day of my life, something happens to me and I think, oh I saw a Seinfeld episode just like this! Like the time I was lost in a parking garage and couldn't find the car, it took my roommate Kelci and I over an hour to find it! No Joke.
4. Malcom in the Middle- Dewy and Reese are the Best
5. Law and Order-SVU
6. Wipeout- this was so funny. I laughed harder at this than anything else. If you haven't seen it, I suggest you watch next season.
7. American Idol
8. America's got talent. But I have to fast forward thru everything David Hasselhoff says becuase I CANNOT stand him.

8 Restaurants I Like...
1. Texas Road House
2. Cafe Rio
3. Winger's- but I hate the sauce.
4. Wendy's- Not sure if Fast Food counts, but I love the spicy Chicken
5. Pei Wei- Ben wants me to make sure you all know its Aisan:)
6. Applebees- Mmmmm
7. Cold Stone Kind of counts right? Because it is delicious and we love it.
8. Can't think of another.

8 Things that happened yesterday...
1. I did some homework
2. Ben slept in and missed half his class (but he didn't get home from work until 3 am)
3. I went with my mom to Tai Pan and Rodworks.
4. I blogged about my new Christmas Decorations.
5. I called in sick for work.
6. Ben was lifting weights and some random man walked up in front of him during a set and took his picture. ( I told him it is because he pulls the ugliest faces when he lifts )
7. We watched Get Smart- An extremely funny movie.
8. It snowed

8 I things I'm looking forward to...
1. I'm with Jenna, Eventually having a baby, But mostly looking forward to having 3 months maternity leave, and not working. I am also NOT making an annoucment.
2. Moving out of this apartment. I hate the 3rd floor.
3. Christmas
4. Decorating for Christmas
5. Ben finishing school
6. Me finishing school
7. Pay day- Friday
8. Thanksgiving, because I actually have it off this year.

8 things on my wish list...
1. A trip to Australia
2. A new Car
3. My own House- So I can Paint it whatever colors I want
4. A job that pays MORE
5. That I wouldn't have to work Chirstmas Eve and Christmas Day- Not going to happen
6. Vacation anywhere!
7. Ben wishes for a job he likes that would pay him better
8. Move out of Salt Lake- The traffic sucks!

Now I tag Stephanie, Char, Rochelle, and Laura

New Decorations!

2008-11-04T17:57:00.000-08:00

I Love Christmas! It is my favortie holiday, I start to get excited for it in August. All of the stores up here have their Christmas Decorations out now, and I Love to go look at them. I could spend hours every day looking and love every minute. Last Saturday I hit a pretty good sell at Rod Works, and today my mom and I went to Tai Pan trading. I got some pretty cute stuff.

Ben Picked out the Santa Clause. I think He did a very good job. This is my Christmas Swag. It looks so pretty!

And of Course It ALL sparkles. If you know me well, then you know that if it Sparkles, I'll probably Love it. The Picture of the Snowflake Garland just doesn't do it justice.

Jazz Opening Night

2008-10-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

G'day everyone!!!

Well, Last night (thanks to Danielle Meacham) we got to attend the very fist home game for the Utah Jazz of the 2008-09 season! I have bugged Merridee for quite a while now to post the pictures on her blog but she is wrapped in her book Twilight...she has been in the first chapter for ages now so it can't be that great! So I thought I would give this whole blogging thingy a go.

When I was a kid and living in Melbourne, occasionally we would go to a footy match at the MCG, and we would always ride the train, so last night we decided to do the same thing which I felt added to the excitement of going. Also, yesterday morning Merridee went and bought a brand new camera for herself and so she was obviously trigger-happy with it. For example, here is silly picture of me on the train:

The Game it's self was pretty entertaining, they played the Denver Nuggets and won a close game. I was pretty neutral but found myself cheering more for Denver because I have always like Allen Iverson. Our Seats were amazing! We sat right behind where the visiting team runs out and could clearly see the expressions on the players' faces.

The most exciting part of the night was probably the players introductions, but before they did that about 20 US Military came out holding the biggest American flag I have ever seen and then expanded it as Country star Colin Ray sang the Star Spangled Banner.

It was the first night the Jazz had ever had lights out for the player intro's ands they had put in a brand new sound system too but the screaming of the near sold out Energy Solutions Arena overshadowed that!

Deron Williams and Matt Harpring were not playing due to injury and Carmello Anthony was not able to play for the Nuggets, but it was still a good close game!

So, I guess this will just about do it for the one and ONLY installment of a post done by me! Just wanted to say thanks again to Danielle, we had soo much fun!

Trains, Delta and Autumn Leaves

2008-10-07T12:52:00.000-07:00

For my Grandma Meacham's 87th brithday, a whole bunch of my family got together over the weekend to go on the Heber Creeper. It was cold and rainy, but overall was beautiful. The leaves were gorgeous, and we had a good time.

Then After the train ride on Saturday, we went to a Deta Goodrem Concert at Keys on Main. I had never really heard of her even though she has a song that plays on the radio all of the time. It is called "In this Life" She was good and we had fun. You will all have to watch for her. She was big in Australia for a while and is now trying to make it in America.

Here are Ben and his brother Josh with her after the concert.

On Monday we went up to Monorvian Park and had Matea take some pictures of us in the autumn leaves before they all fall off. Unfortunately it wasn't a very photogenic day for either of us. But the Leaves were really pretty.
We had a very full weekend, and enjoyed it very much!

Pride and Prejudice

2008-09-24T23:34:00.000-07:00

I talked Ben into watching Pride and Prejudice with me today. While he tried real hard to act like he didn't like it at all, I think he secretly enjoyed it just as much as I did.
It was so nice to finally have a day I didn't have to go to work or do homework. I slept in, then got to spend the whole day with Ben. I wish we could have more days just like it.

I've been Tagged

2008-09-05T23:32:00.001-07:00

20 YEARS AGO...
1. I was two and almost 4 months old.
2. Was the youngest child in my family with Miranda on the way.
3. Had been walking for only 1 year, 9 months
4. I loved singing "Cinderelli, Cinderelli, Cinderelli"

10 YEARS AGO...
1. I was twelve, and had just started 7th grade.
2. Was in Kirt Nilsson's art calss, and he made us make these yarn things. I think I made a tiger design. I hated that class.
3. I had just started Young Women's.

5 YEARS AGO...
1. I was 17, and just starting my senior year at South Sevier High School.
2. Ben's family moved into our family's ward, and lived just down the street.
3. I was driving the citation, with a pink fuzzy steering wheel.

3 YEARS AGO...
1. Ben had been out on his mission a little over one year.
2. I started school at SUU in Cedar City.
3. Went to a play at the Shakespearean (soorey eff speeling iz rong, I've only slept 2 hours in 36 hours)Festival with my roommates Jodi and Kelci. It was A Mid-summer's Night Dream.

1 YEAR AGO...1.
1. I had just started the Weber State extension RN program at Snow College.
2. Ben was working at Wal-Mart in the Dairy section, and also was a security gaurd at Sevier Valley Medical Center.
3. We had just moved into our apartment (which I miss- especially the rent price) in Richfield

THIS YEAR...
1. I graduated from Nursing school, and took a job at Primary Children's hospital.
2. We moved to Midvale.
3. Ben started school to become a High School Health/PE teacher.

YESTERDAY...
1. I got home from work at 8 am, and wasn't tired, so I watched Dancing with wolves. That was dumb, but I just couldn't stop watching it.
2. I needed a Textbook for some homework, and couldn't get it anywhere but at Weber state bookstore. So we drove to Ogden and bought "Nursing, the finest Art."
3. We met up with one of Ben's mission companions and his wife, John and Erin Near in Tai Pan.

TODAY...
1. Well since I'm only into this day one hour, I haven't done much. It was pretty much spent on typing this.
2. Later we will drive to provo so I can do a class project with some other people.

TOMORROW...
1. We'll probably go to Church.
2. Homework- since mine is due by tomorrow at midnight. I should probably start.
3. Then we'll probably sit there and watch a movie since there isn't anyone real close to visit.

NEXT YEAR...
1. I will hopefully own my own house. I'm very sick of this apartment lifestyle, not to mention the 3 flights of stairs to get into our home.
2. We would like to go to Australia, but we'll see how much money we have, since that's pretty costly.
3. Maybe we'll decide to have a baby. But maybe not too.

Back to School

2008-08-26T19:33:00.000-07:00

My sisters keep telling me I need to apdate my blog, but I feel like I have absolutely nothing to say. We hardly do anything fun. Ben and I just started school again. He has decided he wants to be a teacher, and I need my bachelors. I could be done, but decided to go back while I had some ambition. Even if its only a little. If I quit I'll never go back. Ben is in an immigration experience class, and it's his favorite. I guess there are people in there from 14 different countries, and someone from every continent. His teacher is very french. I'm glad that he loves school, because I don't. Although I'm very thankful for my education. Lots of people don't have the luxury so I'm very lucky.

I have a new Desk

2008-07-20T00:11:00.000-07:00

Since we moved into our new apt, we haven't had a desk. The sceen sat on a chair, and when I'd use it, I had to sit on the floor. Tonight in Wal-mart, I found a 20$ desk that is black and silver. We just set it up, and even though it is cheap, It beats sitting on the floor.
Ben Just started his new job at UPS. He'll be an unloader. He's gone every night, but I hope the benefits of the job will be worth it.
Not much new in our lives, so hopefully I'll have something more exciting to blog next time. And maybe some pictures too!

Father's Day

2008-06-14T23:33:00.000-07:00

We're at my parents for the weekend, and Miranda is speaking in church. She has procrastinated writing her talk until just now at 12:30 in the morning, 8 hours before she needs to go to church. She was trying to fill minutes in her talk, and suggested we sing my dad's favorite song, A child's prayer. We were all very reluctant, but somehow thought that if my mom, Kade, and I sang the high part, and Ben and dad sang the low part, it would work. Matea Refused to participate. We practiced a couple of times a while ago, and I was desperate for Matea's help on the high part so I called her. My voice was shaking, and I was choking back tears at the thought of singing in Public. Its is ok if I'm driving in the car. She still refused. So I finally talked Miranda into playing without a choir. Thank Goodness.

State Boards Over With!

2008-06-13T19:08:00.000-07:00

I finally took my states boards, and I passed!!! It was the longest day of my life. The test took me five hours, and was 265 questions long. But it is over with, and I'm finally a Registered Nurse.

Ben and I got moved to Midvale. We're almost done unpacking too. We are in a great location. Everything you can imagine is within a mile. Sometime, I'll get a picture of my apartment on here. Who knows when.

Blogging Bandwagon

2008-05-03T18:44:00.000-07:00

We have decided to start a blog. All of our friends and family are doing it to, so we will too. Not quite sure how everything on here works, but we'll figure it out.

I just graduated from nursing school!!! I'm finally done. All I have to do now is pass state boards, and I may never have to go to class again. It is a great feeling. I acceped a job at Primary Children's Medical Center in the infant med/surg. I'm very nervous, and exctied. Ben will start school this fall at Salt Lake Community College. He doesn't know what he want to study just yet. We'll be living in Midvale, the safe part. Moving day is May 23. We're really excited to start a brand new chapter of our lives.