Aaron, Charlene and Sam, Our Little Miracle

Update and Some Bragging

2012-02-03T14:09:00.000-07:00

Sam is now 6 weeks old! He is growing so fast and I am loving every minute!

He still gets lots of visitors. We had our niece J'neen over for dinner with her awesome boyfriend, Marc. J'neen is the oldest Sperry grandchild and Sam is the youngest. (For now) We ate a yummy dinner and played 'Imagine If...'. We had so much fun and can't wait to do it again.

We adore J'neen!!!!

Sam and I have such a great bond! I tell him all the time, I'm his best friend, and I think he agrees! Here are some pictures from the last two weeks.

He loves his Mamma!

The last time he wore the outfit he came home in! :(

One Happy Boy!!! :)

Nap time, which he won't do without the teddy bear from Ryan :)

We are so blessed to have Sam in our lives. It's amazing how 7 years of pain and disappointment have vanished! We have learned a lot in the last 6 weeks about ourselves.

Sam is so amazing! He sleeps so well! He is sleeping about 6 hours a night and takes one long nap during the day. He loves to eat and now that we know what formula he can keep down he eats a lot more! He drinks 6 ozs. a feeding. I started adding rice cereal to a couple of his bottles, especially is last one. He is so much happier and LOVES it! He is happy and healthy and that is all we ever wanted!!!! :)

(Warned you there would be bragging!!!)

1 Month Already!!!!

2012-01-19T17:14:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that 1 month ago I was sitting in the hospital, waiting to meet me little boy! It has been a great month with ups and downs. (He's been all the ups!!!) I can't complain at all with the little guy!

-He sleeps though the night...well at least 5 hours! (And now in his cradle, which I have a hard time with.)

-He is so cuddly!!!!

-His back is ticklish!

-He sleeps though noises!

-He only cries when he's hungry!

-He's started smiling at me!

So serious

The only frustrating thing is throwing up, but only if I nurse. So its bottle feeding only now, which really bothers me. He is very healthy though and is about 10lbs now!!!

We love this little guy so much!!!! He has brought so much joy into our lives!!!!

Once a Mom...Always a Mom

2012-01-13T22:18:00.001-07:00

I have loved the last 3 weeks of my life, in fact it's been the best 3 weeks of my life! But I could not have done it without my Mom! She has been my maid, cook, taxi, nanny, and my hero! She has come over almost everyday to help me in some way. She brings me breakfast before work, or comes over at night to bathe Sam for me. She's done my laundry and some grocery shopping. Has cooked us many meals and feeds Sam so I can eat. I haven't felt overwhelmed at all and I know it's because my Mom has helped me so much! I know that if I had to I could do it all on my own, but I am so grateful that I don't have to!

I am so glad that I live so close not only so she can help me, but so that my kids can have a great relationship with this wonderful woman! I truly have the worlds greatest Mother!!! Thank you so much Mom and I love you tons!!!!!

New Years and a visit from the Stringham's!

2012-01-02T17:18:00.000-07:00

What a year 2011 was, and we were kind of sad to see it go, but we also hope that 2012 will be just as awesome! We actually stayed up this year! Our friend Ryan came over with an awesome dinner and hung out with us. (Andrew came too, and left about 11) We watched movies and World's Dumbest and played some poker. Quiet and mellow, but what do you expect from new parents! :)

Sam with 'uncle' Ryan! :)

This is how Jon feels about the baby!

On New Years Day, we were able to spend some time with the Stringham's! (Cousin's to my Dad) We love the Stringham's!!! Sam also got to meet Great Grandma Brown for the first time!

Sam with Grandma Brown :)

Cousin Leslie with Sam and Juliet

Sam with Sam :)

Some of you might remember this post: "What's in a name?" Where I explain how we picked Sam's name. This is the Sam I was talking about! :) Is he not super cute!!!! :)

These pictures were taking a couple of days before New Years, but it's still the Stringham's :)

Sam brought Sam some very special stuffed animals, Puppers and Hammy

This is Emma-Rose, Sam's older sister. She is so good with babies! :)

And this is their Dad, John. We just love John and we were so glad we got to visit with him!

We hope that everyone had a great New Years and that 2012 is a great year!!!

The New Love of Our Lives!

2011-12-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

We didn't want a Christmas baby, so we decided to be induced on December 22. (Although, I think he would have come that day anyway.) We kept thinking he would be early on his own because he had been acting like it for months now. But, he didn't and in we went on the 22.

Last pregnant photo, 39 weeks and 1 day! Off to the hospital!

I am going to try and keep this short and not too detailed, but no promises! We got to St. Marks Hospital at 8:30 AM. They checked us in and set me up in the labor and delivery room. They finished the paper work and hooked up the IV. Almost right away, my doctor, Dr. Yamashiro, came in an broke my water. They added pitocin to my IV line. Things were moving a long great. They had to turn the pitocin down because I was progressing really well on my own. I actually went longer then I thought I would without an epidural. (Aaron and I were a little shocked!) At around 7:00 PM I was finally at a 10 and started pushing. I got a rhythm down really fast and didn't mind pushing at all. After an hour, my doctor came in and explained that the baby's head was facing to my right and couldn't get passed my pelvis. He had tried to turn it a couple of times but he would just put his head right back. He said that I could keep pushing for another hour or call it and do a c-section. However, if after another hour, we were still at the same point he was going to call it. I decided to keep pushing, so I did for another 45 minutes. I asked if there was any change, and there wasn't. So I called it and decided to have a c-section. As soon as I said it, no time was wasted, and they left to get the room ready. I had Aaron, Dad and Bryant give me a blessing. Aaron suited up and they came in and wheeled me to the operating room. (Side story...while being wheeled in the bed, I asked where the E.R. music was. They all laughed and started talking about why they can't watch hospital shows. So I started humming the theme!) They drugged me up some more and got everything ready. Aaron sat next to me and held my hand but wanted to watch and they told me he could so he stood....still holding my hand. Within minutes, I heard crying and they brought him over for me to see really quick and then took him to the warmer, which I made Aaron go with him. (Aaron's job once he was born was to stay with him the whole time.) Once he was cleaned up, Aaron brought him over to me and sat next to me. I couldn't believe how fast the nurses and doctors worked. The next thing I knew we were back in the labor and delivery room. My whole family was there (except Elisha, who had to work).I loved having them there, except they all held him before I did. Aaron could tell I was getting upset and finally was able to get him back and brought him right over. As soon as he was in my arms I started crying. He just looked at me. Started to look at his hands and was rubbing one, when he grabbed my finger and wouldn't let go! That's when I started weeping. I couldn't believe that after 7 years, he was finally here and in my arms already showing affection for me! Here are some pictures. (Everything happened so fast that we forgot to bring the camera with is in the operating room.)

Me after pushing for 1 hour and 45 minutes and having made the decision to have a c-section.

Samuel Aaron Sperry

7 lbs. 15 ozs.

21.5 inches long

December 22, 2011 8:05 PM

We had a lot of visitors while we were in the hospital! Unfortunately we didn't get pictures of everyone, we were so overwhelmed and over the moon that it wasn't always a thought.

Sam and Aunt Elisha

Sam and Uncle Quinn

Sam and Grandpa Brown

Sam and Uncle Bryant

Sam and Nana Brown

Sam and Mommy the next day. (I look more tired the 2nd day then the first!)

Sam is already a Mamma's boy! :)

Sam and the proud Daddy!

Jena came and took hospital pictures and I can't wait to see them!

Sam and Pappas

Sam with Mammas and Pappas

3 generations!

Sam and Mammas

Our first family photo and first Christmas!

All buddled up and getting use to being home.

I think he likes it with us!

Sam and Daddy sleeping! Already best friends!

We have truly been blessed and couldn't ask for a better baby. We really feel the Lord has blessed us with such a good baby because we had to wait for 7 years! He eats and sleeps really well! At night he sleeps for 5 to 6 hours without waking up to eat. (And letting me sleep!) When he is awake and not eating, he is very alert and has to know what is going on around him. My favorite thing is, when he is crying all I have to do is pick him up and he stops.

So that was not really short, sorry! And I feel like I am leaving things out!

Day 30 - Something you could never get tired of doing

2011-12-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to think I shouldn't have done this till after the baby's here. Between being super pregnant brained, sick, tired, and having a super short attention span I find answering most of these hard. I can't pick just one thing and for today's I can't think of something because of my short attention span. Nothing holds my attention at all!

But, before I was pregnant, and I am sure after, something I could never get tired of is crafting! I think maybe because there are so many different things I can do, or because it is something that I get to create and becomes apart of me. Some of my favorites are painting, scrapbooking, making cards and making holiday decorations.

Here are some of my favorites!

Day 29 - Your biggest Pet Peeve

2011-12-03T20:30:00.000-07:00

Being OCD and super organized, I have a few pet peeves. But I think I would have to say one of my biggest is things being left opened, especially cabinets, closets, and doors that are normally closed. In high school, my best friend Jake, use to run around the kitchen opening cabinets and I would run behind him closing them...it drives me crazy. Of course he had to show my husband, who loves to tease me, and still does it to me on occasion. I am positive he will end up showing our kids and the cycle will never end!

Day 28 - Your favorite moive

2011-12-02T13:02:00.001-07:00

I am much more of a TV watcher than a movie. Not that I don't enjoy movies, I just love TV. Here are some of my favorites....again, I can't pick just one!

Who doesn't love the Princess Bride!?!?! It has something for everyone!

I love the music in Hairspray and really enjoy this movie!

I always laugh though Anchorman! Perfect movie to watch when you are in a mood to laugh at stupid humor!

And even though this got horrible reviews, All About Steve is one of my favorites. I love Sandra Bullock and think she is hysterical in this movie!

Day 27 - A picture of you last year and now and how have you changed since then?

2011-12-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

This one was hard to find a picture of me last year. (oops!) But I did find one.

Right after getting my hair cut and colored

Me a few weeks ago. Sorry no new picture this week...I've been sick and still am :(

We'll start with the obvious....I'm pregnant this year and wasn't last! My hair is longer, and lighter. (Although I haven't had it colored since last year...the color we did was suppose to fade into my natural color! I have the best hair stylist in the world!) Anyway, I think my face has thinned out a little. Other than that, I don't really see any more changes.

Day 26- A photo of somewhere you've been to

2011-11-30T17:11:00.000-07:00

Another tricky one for me! I've been to a lot of places. I only need 10 more states to see all 50! Plus I've been to several places in Canada being half Canadian! So here are some pictures of me in different places! :)

Nashville, TN

San Francisco, CA

Nauvoo, IL

Disneyland!

Nova Scotia, Canada

Washington DC

I love traveling and seeing new sites and eating at new places. I've been to a lot more places than this. Some of my favorites are: Nashville, New York, Nova Scotia, Washington DC, Maine, and Seattle

Day 25 – What’s in your purse?

2011-11-29T11:51:00.000-07:00

Well, right now, there are a lot of candies and snacks! I have my appetite back and I can eat a lot more! (I think Sam has dropped!) My wallet of course, which has the drivers license, debit cards, rewards cards, health insurance cards and my grandpa's obituary. Also in my purse, keys, chapstick, change, tissues, and couch drops. (Well, since getting sick.) There really isn't a lot in my purse right now, because I wasn't suppose to be carrying anything heavy, so I cleaned it out.

Day 24 – A photo of something that means a lot to you

2011-11-29T11:43:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry I didn't post yesterday. I've been under the weather, and being pregnant makes that so much harder! So I will do two today :)

So I didn't read ahead, because I would have put Sam here instead of something that makes me happy. Aaron and Sam mean everything to me! But I am trying not to repeat myself in the 30 day challenge.

My dog Zeus means a lot to me! He is my favorite of the 4! (But don't tell the others!) And I can tell he loves me so much! Not a day goes by that he doesn't show me how much he loves me and wants to be with me. I think he will have the hardest time when the baby is here.

Day 23 – 15 facts about you

2011-11-27T19:13:00.000-07:00

No I didn't forget yesterday's post, I just didn't like it. It was write a letter to someone who has recently hurt you. 1st, I don't feel that this is the place to do that, and 2nd, I couldn't think of anyone! :)

So now on to today's! P.S. I hate writing about myself.

1- I have lived in 3 states: Massachusetts, New Jersey and Utah

2- I only need to visit 10 more states to have been in all 50!

3- I love Disney movies!

4- I am very OCD and a clean freak, but I am not a germ-a-phobe

5- All of my movies have to be in alphabetical order

6- I have enough crafting/scrap booking stuff to fill a room

7- I have even more Christmas stuff!

8- I love fire

9- I love to cook and bake

10- I'm a big M*A*S*H fan

11- I love puzzles

12- I don't eat pig...except bacon

13- We go to the Forgotten Carols every year

14- I rearrange the kitchen a lot

15- I love vanilla coke

(That wasn't too bad with hubby's help!)

Day 21 – A photo of something that makes you happy

2011-11-25T11:17:00.000-07:00

Another hard one! I So many things make me happy! But I think what makes me the happiest right now is this little guy!

With the way things are going, he could really be here anytime now! :)

Day 20 – The meaning behind your blog name

2011-11-24T11:04:00.000-07:00

Aaron, Charlene and Our Little Miracle

Well, the meaning behind the name. First off, I wanted our names, so you know who you are reading about. 'Our Little Miracle' is referring to Sam. After 7 years of trying to have kids we feel Sam is our miracle. We are over joyed to have him join our family and we are getting more and more excited for his arrival!

Day 19 – Another picture of yourself.

2011-11-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

Perfect timing for this one! We just had our 7th Anniversary pictures taken. If you have been reading my blog for a while, you know we do this every year. This year we were a little late, but I am excited to have some snow pictures! These pictures where taken at Draper Park by Jena Vanderelburg. She had us laughing the WHOLE time! Here are some of my favorites!

Day 18 – Something you crave a lot

2011-11-22T18:13:00.000-07:00

Not fair for a pregnant woman!!! J/K...Actually, I haven't really had cravings.

I will say that right now, I can't get enough of Hot Chocolate! It's just something about this time of year I guess. Aaron says I make the best hot chocolate, maybe a little too hot though. I always mix it with French Vanilla Coffee Mate (the powered form) and then add milk.

Day 17 – A photo of you and your family

2011-11-21T11:57:00.003-07:00

This photo is a couple of years old and now minus two. (Soon to be two anyway) We are getting a new one done this summer!

L-R: Tricia, Elisha, Bryant, Mom, Dad, Aaron, Me, and Andrew

Here is my "other" family...the Sperry's. This photo is even older, but it's hard for this many Sperry's to all be together. As you can see a whole lot more! And again two missing. (Soon two to be anyway)

Top L-R: Aaron, Josh, Nick, Nathan, Vance, Stieven, J'neen, Kayden, Jereme, Rod, Nina, Trent, Quinn
Middle L-R: Me, Melissa, Shauna, Kaye(Mom), Ron(Dad), Lyndee, Wendy with Isabell, Julianne with Kyler
Bottom L-R: Raetchel, Madi, Laurra, Holli, Jason, Kenley, Kaleb, Max

Day 16 – Your celebrity crush.

2011-11-20T12:56:00.000-07:00

I have the hardest time picking just one for any of these music, TV, celebrity posts! But I made myself pick just one for this post.

Adam Levine! He is the lead singer for the band, Maroon 5.

I love him not only because he is so good to look at, but because I also love his singing voice!!!

Day 15 – Something you don’t leave the house without

2011-11-19T11:16:00.000-07:00

When ever I go anywhere, I try to bring with me as little as possible. I hate carrying things and hate having to worry about them. The one thing that I can not leave the house without though is my wedding ring! I don't usually wear it around the house, but if I leave without it I feel naked and like a big part of me is missing. Now, I know that I am married with or without the ring, but I feel like Aaron is with me all the time when I am wearing it.

Day 14 – A TV show you’re currently addicted to.

2011-11-18T10:38:00.000-07:00

Here is where you all can judge me. I've said it before, I love and I'm addicted to TV! I love getting lost in the stories and making a connection with a character. I also love stupid reality shows to make me laugh and forget the real world for a bit! Now, I will say that in the last month, I have had a really short attention span. (Something else I blame being pregnant on!!) So here are the few shows that keep my attention right now....but I watch and love many more.

Psych....if you aren't watching you are really missing out! Best show on TV!!!!

I love World's Dumbest! Always makes me laugh!

Once Upon A Time....I love this whole idea and the story caught me from the beginning!

Day 13 – Your favorite musician and why?

2011-11-17T13:54:00.000-07:00

YEAH! I love music and was excited for today's challenge!!! :) But I had a hard time picking one. Mainly because I like different kinds of music, so I picked two.

I'll start with the obvious....Vanessa Carlton! I still remember the first time I heard her. I was with my dear friend Diana and we were driving in a bad storm. She had been telling me that I need to hear her song, "A Thousand Miles" and that I would love it. All of the sudden, it came on! And she was right I totally feel in love!

My obsession, as some call it, just grew from there. I got her CD and learned as much as I could about her. The more I learned the more I admired her. Not only do I love her voice, but learned she wrote all her own songs. And to top things off, she plays the piano while she sings! From there, I also learned that she is a ballet dancer and loves dogs! She just released her 4th CD, which she did all her own. She again wrote it all and cut it all. She went old school and didn't record digitally. She also didn't it without a record company.

Check her out at http://vanessacarlton.com/

The other I just love is Brad Paisley! And who wouldn't! Isn't he so cute! But seriously....talk about talent. His songs are always so cleverly written and he is quite the guitar player. I love listening to his lyrics. Here are just a few....

You had some of the best times
You'll never remember with me
Alcohol, alcohol
-Alcohol

You can blend in in the country
You can stand out in the fashion world
Be invisible to a whitetail
Irresistible to a redneck girl
Camouflage, camouflage
Oh, you're my favorite color, camouflage
-Camouflage

Someday I'm gonna be famous, do I have talent, well no
These days you don't really need it thanks to reality shows
-Celebrity

When she's layin' on my shoulder on the sofa in the dark
And about the time she falls asleep so does my right arm
And I want so bad to move it 'cause it's tinglin' and it's numb
But she looks so much like an angel that I don't wanna wake her up
Yeah I live for little moments
-Little Moments

To learn more about Brad check out http://bradpaisley.com/

Day 12 – A photograph of the town you live in

2011-11-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

I found this one kind of boring...sorry. I also couldn't find a good picture of the town I live in. So here is the sign of West Jordan.

I do think that when most people think of West Jordan, they think of Jordan Landing. So I thought I'd add a picture of that too.

We love living in West Jordan and are so glad to be back!

Day 11 – What’s in your makeup bag?

2011-11-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

I don't keep my makeup in a bag unless I am traveling, but here is it.

I love the Neutrogena healthy skin line, so for my base, powered and blush that's what I wear. But I am not really a fan of their eye color. I have lots of eye shadow and in many shades, but this is my favorite. (Mainly because it's the only one that Aaron seems to notice and compliment me on and every time I wear it.) It's made by Rimmel. And the mascara is Avon's wash-off waterproof. The thing with me and mascara is we usually don't stay friends long. Once I've worn a certain one for a while it no longer like it so I change brands and options often. I will say, this is the only waterproof one I've ever liked.

Day 10 – A photo of your favorite place to eat

2011-11-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Since I got pregnant, I have been eating a lot of Italian food. (Baby loves it!) But the good news is, so does this mama!!! One of Aaron and I favorite places to go has always been the Macaroni Grill! (Remember this blog post about Our 4th Anniversary!!)

My favorite dish has always been the fettuccine alfredo, but they have changed their menu, and the sauces isn't as creamy. But they also have so many other great things!!!!

Day 9 – A photo of the item you last purchased.

2011-11-14T11:49:00.001-07:00

I am a HUGE Disney fan! It's so hard for me to pick a favorite, because I just love so many and there are so many different kinds.

Here is my last purchase! :)

Day 8 – A song to match your mood

2011-11-12T18:01:00.000-07:00

I love music, but I am having a hard time matching my mood since it keeps changing. (I blame being pregnant!) So, I decided I would match the weather!

It's Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas

Ev'rywhere you go;
Take a look in the five and ten glistening once again
With candy canes and silver lanes aglow.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Toys in ev'ry store
But the prettiest sight to see is the holly that will be
On your own front door.

A pair of hopalong boots and a pistol that shoots
Is the wish of Barney and Ben;
Dolls that will talk and will go for a walk
Is the hope of Janice and Jen;
And Mom and Dad can hardly wait for school to start again.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas
Ev'rywhere you go;
There's a tree in the Grand Hotel, one in the park as well,
The sturdy kind that doesn't mind the snow.
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas;
Soon the bells will start,
And the thing that will make them ring is the carol that you sing
Right within your heart.

Day 7 – Your dream wedding

2011-11-11T11:03:00.000-07:00

Every little girl dreams of her wedding. The gown, the ring, the hair and the flowers. I was no exception. But life is funny isn't it! Once I found the man I wanted to spend the rest of my life with, all that seemed less important. All that mattered was that I was going to spend the rest of my life with the person I wanted to and loved more than anything! I won't say I had my dream wedding, but I did marry the man of my dreams! :)

The trellis behind us, my parents made for their wedding! :)

The rings and the flowers....always wanted daisies!

Having most of my Grandparents there meant a lot! (My other Grandfather couldn't make it down from Canada.)

The cake! Seriously so delicious!!!!

Now, I will say that my dream wedding always included the temple. But not every thing goes as planned. Thankfully we did make it to the temple and made our 5th Anniversary so special! Not only can we be together till death, but now for all eternity and that our children will forever be sealed to us.

Day 6 – A photo of an animal you’d love to keep as a pet

2011-11-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

Ever since I was a little girl I have always loved giraffes. I think it started one winter when I was little, I had a lot of ear infections and the doctor told me I had a giraffe in my ear and "pulled" one out of my ear. Silly I know! Ever year we go to the zoo, and I can't wait to see them, but always wait till the end! (Saving the best for last of course!) One year, one of them even got close enough, that we petted it. I just think these animals are beautiful and in their own way very graceful.

Day 5 – A photo of yourself two years ago

2011-11-09T11:49:00.000-07:00

This was almost exactly two years ago. I was making crab-apple jelly with Mom and Tricia. Feel like I haven't changed that much since then! :)

Day 4 – Your favorite photograph of your best friend

2011-11-08T15:50:00.000-07:00

I am having a hard time with this one! I don't have a lot of friends. For me, it's about the friendships I have and keeping them strong, not about how many friends I can have that aren't there for me. And it's hard for me to say best friend. I have a handful of friends that mean the world to me and that I would do anything for and I know that I can count on them, near or far.

This is Cherilyn. We met in 2nd grade in New Jersey. We still talk to each other all the time and talk each other though our hard times. I can always count on her positivity and cheerfulness!

This is Jake. Jake and I first met in the summer of 1999, when he help Bryant and I break into our new house because we hadn't been given keys yet. We became instant friends and were attached at the hip all though High School! We still are the best of friends, but sometimes I think he is better friends with Aaron now than me! :)

This is Diana. We met in Science class in 9th grade. One of my first memories of her is dissecting a baby pig together for extra credit, but neither one of us could do it! I wouldn't say we became best friends right away. It wasn't until I moved into the ward that we started to build a relationship. But I would say that we are closer than we have ever been!

This is Morgan. She is also from New Jersey, however, we met in Utah. We both worked at a chiropractor's office. It is such a small world, only 11 people worked there, and two of us from NJ! Morgan is so much fun to be around! She loves life. Even more important for me, she is level headed. She helped me though the hardest time in my life and helped keep me level headed. I don't know what I would have done without her. I was sad when she moved back to NJ, but we keep in touch and she has already made a trip our here to come to a baby shower for me!

And of course the best friends I could ever ask for! My family....Mom and Dad aren't in the picture :( I know that I can always count on them for anything! And I am especially grateful for the man standing behind me! He is truly the best friend I have ever had and so glad that I can be with him for eternity!

Day 3 – Your idea of the perfect first date

2011-11-07T18:27:00.000-07:00

I'm a pretty simple girl. I don't need anything fancy or expensive to make me happy. I get excited finding a penny on the street!

A perfect date for me is anything that involves eating and laughing! I just want to have a good time. A picnic in the park, dinner and a movie, bowling, mini golf....anything fun and simple.

My first date with Aaron was just that. He had to work at night, so we actually had a morning date. We went to IHOP for breakfast, where we talked and laughed. (He says he feel in love with me there!) Then we went mini golfing, but since it was January, we went to a mall that had an indoor, black light course. Now this was almost 8 years ago, so I don't remember a lot, but I do remember laughing and lot and not wanting it to end. (And in a way it hasn't!!!)

Day 2 – Tell us about your job

2011-11-06T11:54:00.000-07:00

I am currently working as a Nanny for a family with 3 kids. (But only for a little bit, then I will be a full time mommy!) I will not put their names or pictures for the privacy of the family.

The oldest is a 5 year old girl. She just started kindergarten and I think she is loving it!

The next is a 3 year old boy. We are working on potty training, and he gets so proud of himself when he makes it!

The youngest is a 8 month old boy. He is so sweet and loving, and smiles all the time.

When I get there at 7:30, I help getting the oldest ready for school. Then around 8:15 we take her to school. Getting the 3 kids in and out of the car is the hardest part for me being 7 months pregnant. And I only have room for 3 car seats, so they are pretty cozy in the back! When I get back with the boys, the baby takes a nap. Most mornings I then get the 3 year old ready for the day. Then we watch a movie and color. He is also learning his shapes and is learning quickly. I give him a snack around 10. At 10:45, I wake up the baby and we go get the girl from school. Then when we get back I prepare lunch. I usually feed the baby first and let him play in his highchair while the others eat. Then at 12:00 I put the 3 year old down for his nap and at 12:30/1:00 I put the baby down. This is when I get to spend time with the girl. Now, the bigger I get, the more tired I become, so she usually lets me take a little nap, and she lies with me watching a movie. She likes to have some quiet time, but it "too big" to take a nap. When I get up, we color or she goes downstairs and plays. When the boys get up, we try to play a game or do some sort of craft. We do that till 5:00 when mom gets home.

30 day blogging challenge

2011-11-05T10:02:00.000-07:00

I thought November would be a good month to do a challenge. I've been wanting to do one of these for a while now, but never found one I liked. Then I finally found one I wanted to do, but it was right before me moved and I knew we wouldn't have the internet for a while. But I also knew I should do it before Sam comes, because I will be a little busy! ;) So here it is!

Day 1 – A photo of yourself and a description of how your day was.

Me today, at 32 1/2 weeks! Only 7 1/2 weeks left!

Well, my day is just getting started, but so far it's been good. We got up early to have our yearly family photo. Aaron and I have gotten a picture every year around our anniversary even without kids, so we will always have those memories. We were a little late this year, but it was fun to have pictures done in the snow, since there is never snow in August! We finished painting Sam's room last night, so today we could put in the new hardwood floor. Right now, the room has a gross blue carpet. Hopefully we can get it in without too much stress on Aaron, and ME! Other than that I plan on taking it easy today, maybe a trip to the grocery store.

Baby Shower #1

2011-10-22T19:24:00.000-07:00

So, I was only going to have one shower to make it easy on both my mom and mother in law, but my MIL decided she wanted to do her own. So today, my aunts and mom, threw me a wonderful shower! It was my family and friends.

I was very overwhelmed with the love I was shown. My aunts even had the shower catered! I was in shock!

Now I brought the camera and planned on taking a lot of pictures, but once people started showing up, I totally forgot. So here are pictures from the beginning of the shower!

The food!

Grandma (Great) Brown holding my niece Juliet

My friend Katie who I haven't seen in 7 years!

Sweet Linda from the ward

One of the coolest people ever! Jen!!!

My sister and our crazy cousins!

The loot!

When I got home, I unloaded everything to get a picture. I just started crying! I couldn't believe how loved his little boy is already! My heart is full and I am so grateful for the people in my life! A big thanks to everyone who loves me and my son. It was more than I deserve.

General Conference :)

2011-10-04T20:03:00.000-07:00

General Conference is one of my favorite weekends of the year. We usually go to my parents and the boys build models and the girls scrapbook. (I finally finished Aaron's mission album!!!!) Anyway, the Saturday afternoon session, I wasn't feeling too good and my feet were swollen, so I stayed home and lied in bed to watch. I started falling asleep when Neil L. Andersen started his talk. Right away, I knew it would be the talk that was just for me, so I sat up. I cried all the way through and wondered why this talk hadn't been given when I most needed it. But as I listened more, I realized that I wouldn't have listened. I was too bitter and frustrated. I am so grateful for this church and the blessings that I have received. And I hope and pray that the words shared at conference will be remembered by all.

You don't have to listen, I posted it more for my sake so that I could listen to it when ever I need it.

This is what 27 weeks looks like....

2011-09-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

Found the camera, didn't realize that I went 7 weeks without taking a picture! And boy did I grow!!!! The funny thing is, I thought I was big at 20 weeks. And the scariest part is that I haven't really reached the baby getting fat stage!

Other than being sick, I am loving being pregnant and feeling Sam all the time! Getting sick was hard, mainly because I can't take anything to feel better. But Aaron has been a rock star in taking care of me and working on the house. (I'm so lucky!!!)

Update without pictures

2011-09-17T18:43:00.000-07:00

Sorry, no pictures...the camera is still packed and being looked for :) But I wanted to add an update since I am VERY pregnant brained and forget things way to easy right now.

My cousin, Ruth, was married to her sweetheart, Alex, in August. (Great month to get married!) It was a beautiful outdoor wedding in the mountains. (Forgot my camera) We are so happy for them and glad that Alex is a part of our family!

On September 11, Bryant and Elisha, had their baby girl, Juliet. They left for the hospital at 6:00 AM. Bryant sent me a text which kind of woke me up. As I was reading, I had a contraction. And Sam was super active until Elisha was given an epidural. It was interesting. Mom thinks that they were saying 'goodbye, see you in December'. She is healthy and beautiful and both Mom and baby are doing great. (Camera was packed)

We are all moved into our new place. And we love it! (Even surrounded by boxes!) We actually feel like we are home. We have been having 'fun' painting and unpacking. We only have a few more rooms to paint. Our new place has 5 bedrooms and 2 full baths with another room unfinished by plumed for a bathroom. My favorite part is the laundry room and how much storage this house has. (The laundry room is huge!)

On to the fun stuff....the baby. Sam is doing great....right on track!!! I have gained only about 10 pounds and I swear most of that is him! He is going to be a big baby. He is moving most of the time and I love it. I swear he will be a goalie for a soccer team...he is always moving his arms and legs. His kicks are getting much stronger and he can almost kick my ribs. Aaron feels him daily now instead of the occasional 'big' one. We are so excited and are starting to feel the time crunch. He will be here in less than 15 short weeks, with lots of holidays to pass the time in between!

As soon as I find the camera I will post a new baby bump picture :)

A rare moment

2011-08-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

Zeus loves raw-hides. Jon and Bella do sometimes. (Most of the time Jon just watches one of them eat a raw-hide) Well, yesterday, they all had one and lied next to each other!!!! I love this picture....except for the carpet.

HALFWAY!!!!

2011-08-10T16:56:00.000-07:00

Here we are at the halfway mark!!! In just 20 short weeks we will be holding our little miracle!!!!

Not much bigger from my last, but feeling it! :)

It's A Boy!

2011-08-04T16:21:00.000-07:00

Introducing Samuel Aaron Sperry!

On Monday, I had a doctor appointment. We were sure hoping we would be able to tell what we were having. The doctor put on the ultrasound, and the baby was upside down. So we started with the heartbeat. (My favorite sound in the whole world!!!) Then we found the baby's bottom. Legs spread wide open, but with a hand holding on for dear life to the crotch. I couldn't help but laugh! Aaron said, "It's a boy! That's MY son!" So the doctor started shaking my belly to try and make the hand move. When the doctor stopped, the baby kicked me twice and then gave up and moved his hand. And it was no longer a question...it's a boy!

Today, I had the big ultrasound where they measure everything and make sure the dates are right and all that fun stuff. It was so exciting!!! They gave me a ton of pictures and even a DVD!!! :) Here are some of my favorites!

I love seeing my little boy!!! We are so excited. Aaron knew it was a boy and really wanted a boy. He is just beaming!!! :) I would have been happy either way, it has taken us so long, as long as it was healthy, but secretly I really wanted a boy.

"Anything Like Me"

2011-08-03T08:15:00.001-07:00

Here is a song from Brad Paisley...it's kind of how we are feeling right now and loving it!!! :)

I remember saying I don't care either way
Just as long as he or she is healthy I'm ok
Then the doctor pointed to the corner of the screen
And said "You see that thing right there well you know what that means"

And I started wondering who he was going to be
And I thought heaven help us if he's anything like me
He'll probably climb a tree too tall and ride hes bike to fast
End up every summer wearing something in a cast
He's gonna throw a ball and break some glass in a window down the street
He's gonna get in trouble oh he's gonna get in fights
I'm gonna lose my temper and some sleep
It's safe to say that I'm gonna get my payback if he's anything like me

I can see him right now knees all skinned up
With a magnifying glass trying to melt a Tonka truck
Won't he be a sight with his football helmet on
That'll be his first love til his first love comes along
He'll get his heart broke by the time he's in his teens
And heaven help him if he's anything like me

He'll probably stay out too late and drive his car too fast
Get a speeding ticket he'll pay for mowing grass
He's gonna get caught skipping class and be grounded for a week
He's gonna get in trouble we're gonna get in fights
I'm gonna lose my temper and some sleep
It's safe to say that I'm gonna get my payback if he's anything like me

He's gonna love me and hate me along the way
Years are gonna fly by I already dread the day
He's gonna hug his momma, he's gonna shake my hand
He's gonna act like he cant wait to leave
But as he drives out he'll cry his eyes out
If he's anything like me there's worse folks to be like
Aw he'll be alright if he's anything like me

Finally...A Haircut!

2011-07-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

So we got Zeus a while ago, but we he was sick for a bit and need updated shots before we could get him groomed. And then we didn't have money for it. Aaron got a bigger check and I had a $10 coupon! It was finally time!!!

Before :(

After!!! Now he looks like we care! :) He is so much smaller than we realized. Tricia came with me to pick him up, and when they brought him out, at the same time we both said, "Is that Zeus!?!" Getting a haircut is a lot of work for a dog, so he slept most of the day cuddled on my lap. I am having to work on separating him from me. He is super attached. He loves people, but doesn't want to be with them for long before he comes begging for me. He loves to sit on my lap which is getting harder for him, so he sits on my belly now! ;)

What's in a name?

2011-07-25T10:53:00.000-07:00

Next Monday we should find out what our little miracle is!!! (As long as the baby will show us!) We can't wait!!!! We have been asked a lot if we have a name picked out. And if you know me, then you know I do! I know that a lot of people don't say what names they are thinking of and wait to "reveal" the name when the baby is here. But that's not me! :)

If it's a boy: Samuel Aaron

We've had this name picked out since our honeymoon! I feel in love with the name Samuel when I meet Samuel Stringham. (He is the son of my Dad's cousin and his wife John and Jen) And I always knew that my first son would have his Dad's first name as his middle name.

If it's a girl: We will have to meet her! But we have 3 names picked out!

1st: Vanessa Joy

I always thought it was kind of wired when someone was named after a famous person. But find myself in the same spot. Vanessa Carlton is my favorite singer/musician. Not only can she sing, but she plays the piano in all of her songs and she has written all of her songs on 4 CD's! Now Joy actually is for my Nanny, Joyce, we just shortened it. I love my Nanny and wish I could see her more!

2nd: KimberLee Anne

My Mom has a cousin named Kimberly Anne, and I've always loved her. I would call her Kimberly Anne Allison Wonderland. (No one knows where I got that from!) It is very much a family name on my Mom's side. But I changed the spelling. Lee is a family name on my Dad's side. My Grandpa's middle name was Lee, my Aunt Maria's middle name is Lee and her daughters name is EmmaLee.

3rd: Allison Patricia

Allison Patricia was my name for most of my Mom's pregnancy and even when I was born. I didn't respond, my mom said Charlene and I turned and smiled, she said I picked my own name. Being pregnant made me think about names, and I thought, what if my Mom had the right name, but the wrong baby! (Her name is Patricia)

To Do List : August

2011-07-19T15:14:00.000-07:00

August is going to be a great month and I can't wait!!! Here is a list of exciting things to come!!!

- Find out what the baby is!

-Celebrate our 7th Anniversary!!!!!!!

-Find out the size of the baby

-Charlene starts a new job as a nanny to 3 adorable kids

-MOVE!!!! We are moving back to West Jordan!

16 weeks and Growing

2011-07-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

It's been an exciting week for us. I haven't seen a doctor since week 9 and we were starting to get worried. Nothing seemed wrong, but it's taken us so long that we just were paranoid. Monday was my first real appointment and I love my new doctor. He asked me if I wanted to know the gender if he could tell. I told him yes. As soon as he put the ultrasound on, the baby waved at us. :) It was so cool!!!! Then he saw the heartbeat. That is all I wanted to see! Just to know that the baby is ok and still growing! The baby was putting on a show moving around, but not will to show us what it is!

Top of the head and a hand...5 fingers :)

Looking right at us. See the two eyes?

I am growing fast! It is so cool! I am loving being pregnant! I still have tired days, but it's getting easier. I was able to enjoy a Jamba Juice yesterday and it was so good! Our next ultrasound in August 1st, and hopefully we'll be able to see what we are having. This baby has made our relationship so much stronger!!! In a month we will be starting the 7 year itch anniversary, but we couldn't be more in love.

Our Obsession....Psych!!!!

2011-06-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

First of all, we need to thank my brother, Bryant, for getting us addicted!

We have Netflix on the Wii, and decided to give Psych a try. We were hooked from episode one! There were 63 episodes (Season 1-4). And even with us both working at the time, we were able to watch all 63 in a matter of 2 to 3 weeks. It was all we thought about! We couldn't wait to get home to watch it. When we watched the last episode, it was a HUGH cliff hanger! I started researching to make sure that it wasn't the end. Season 5 had just ended and wasn't available yet! AHHHH! Well, it just came out, but not on Netflix, so I went and bought it! And season 6 starts this fall on USA!!!! I am so glad this show is still going strong and it is no surprise why! Not only is this show very funny and clever, but it is very well casted and written.

Shawn Spencer (James Roday) and Burton Guster "Gus" (Dule Hill)

What's with the pineapples you ask!?! Well, there is a pineapple in every episode, but gets harder to find! Check it out and see how many you can find! :)

Receptionist: There is a Lt. Crunch here to see you.
Burton 'Gus' Guster: Crunch?
Shawn Spencer: [enters, dressed in a Civil War uniform] Actually, I've been promoted. It's Captain Crunch.

12 Weeks!!!

2011-06-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

So yesterday I made it to 12 weeks!!! How it's been so far? Well, I am super tired! All I want to do is sleep. I did get sick to my stomach a lot, mostly around 2 AM :( Maybe that's why I am so tired! I haven't thrown up yet, but I hardly ever do anyway. I will do anything not to throw up! I can't eat fruit right now. Baby doesn't like it, but I want a Jamba Juice so bad! I've only had one craving so far....RAISINS! I was about 3 weeks long. And now I can't eat them!

Here's a picture of me so far....first off, the camera adds 10lbs! I don't always look so pregnant, it really depends on what I am wearing.

We can't wait to find out what we are having! ( I want to start shopping!!!)

Mixed Emotions

2011-05-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

What a day yesterday. I had another ultrasound. (9 weeks) Baby number 1 is growing like a weed and has a strong, healthy heartbeat. Baby number 2 stopped growing and no longer has a heartbeat. Such mixed emotions. We have tried for so long to have a baby and then when we found out it was two we were so excited. And to lose one, is so hard. We have already been so attached and so happy. I saw my chiropractor later that day and had a really good conversation with him and he was very comforting. And my sister, Tricia, said that now our baby has a guardian angel. Which I will always let our baby know. Baby number one will be so spoiled and loved and we are still so happy that there is still one.

Our Story Keeps Getting Better :)

2011-05-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am feeling very overwhelmed. Today I am exactly 7 weeks, and we had our first ultrasound. The first thing Dr. Blauer says is: "There's 2, what did we do!?!" All I could say is "WHAT?!" and I started to cry. That's when Aaron walked in. (I think I scared him) I told him it was twins and he just beamed!

Already they are so different from each other.

This is baby number 1. Looks like a little baby, and strong heartbeat!

This is baby number 2. Much smaller, and a smaller heartbeat, but a strong one!

I really couldn't be happier. I am still very much in shock and am aware that so much can still happen. But I have my amazing family and the gospel to get me though this. My dear cousin Jen told me this, "Heavenly Father knows what He is doing!!!! He keeps you wanting only to double gift you!"

Our Story

2011-05-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

So, if you haven't guessed yet by the ticker, we are pregnant! Due December 27th! (Best Christmas or Birthday present ever!!!!!) It's still really, really early but we thought Mother's Day would be the perfect day to tell everyone. It's has been a long 6 1/2 years. And I haven't been strong enough to tell our story until now.
Shortly after we were married we decided to not try, but not prevent it. After a year, we started seeing different doctors. Nothing was found, Aaron checked out and I seemed to check out. We didn't have a lot of money, so we couldn't really see a specialist. But last year Aaron's works insurance started to cover fertility treatments, so as soon as we found out I found a specialist. Dr. Blauer with Reproductive Care Center. My nurse there is Liezle who started working there in December. She is the biggest blessing I have there. She is so amazing and outstanding in her job. And when I go see her, I am her number one priority. I love calling her number and have her answer. I have been so impressed with her and wouldn't have made it though without her. We started treatments last August. It started with a bunch of pills. In February/March, we stepped things up and started the IUI process. I had to give myself shots and take a lot more pills. Then Aaron would go in, and I would go in 2 hours later and they would use a catheter....well you can figure out the rest. :) The first one didn't work, and it was really hard. We had told family and close friends of the process, and it was so hard to tell them it didn't work. So we did it again on April 6th. Two weeks after I was suppose to take a pregnancy test, but I didn't want to, I was too nervous. But Aaron really wanted me to, so I did for him, because he is apart of this too. When I saw the positive I almost threw up!

I went from feeling nervous to being super excited. I called Aaron to tell him, and could only cry. I have never been so overwhelmed with emotion before. We have been so disappointed so many times before, I had a hard time believing it. So I called the doctors office, and we scheduled a blood test. I stopped by after my half day of work. On the way home, I talked myself out of it. I figured there was a mistake and that they would call and tell me it was negative. My nurse called, Liezle, and told me my levels were 150. I asked her what that meant. She laughed and said anything over 100 is a positive! We waited about a week before we told our parents and my siblings, since they were all so involved and kept asking us. But we had to tell others because we can't keep our excitement in! We know that the first 3 months are the hardest and higher chances of miscarriage, but I also have seen that there isn't a safe date. Aaron and I are so excited and can't for this new chapter in our lives! Aaron is convinced it's twins or more because of the IUI and all the fertility drugs. He also thinks it's a boy/boys because of the Sperry curse. (Every baby conceived in Utah was a boy!) I don't know how I feel. I just want a healthy baby, and really can't feel if it's one or more, or a boy or a girl. I sometimes wonder if something is wrong since I haven't had any dreams about it, and I have heard so many stories about woman knowing they are pregnant before because they had a dream. I know that is silly, but I already have pregnant brain!!!
I also want to take this time to apologize. I had a hard time saying congratulations to anyone who got pregnant or had a baby. I wouldn't go to baby showers or blessings because it was too hard for me. I am sorry I wasn't there, and not strong enough to support you. So I want to send out a huge congratulations to everyone in the past 6 1/2 years who had a baby! :)

Meet Zeus

2011-04-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

Well we did it! We got another dog! His name is Zeus and he is a year old. He is a Maltese/Poodle mix. These pictures where right after a bath, he has some tear stains that we can't get out. We are going to get him groomed as soon as the kennel cough has cleared up.

He is so much fun and basically the perfect dog! Unlike my other dogs, he doesn't lick a lot, he love toys, and loves to cuddle. He is already my best friend and follows me everywhere.

PS....Grandma doesn't know!

Music

2011-04-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't been my self lately as most of you know. I rely on music to help me though things. And we are friends on facebook you know that I have been listening to the Mamma Mia soundtrack a lot! There is song on there that has really helped me and I thought I would share it with you.

SOPHIE:

I have a dream

A song to sing

To help me cope

With anything

If you see the wonder

Of a fairy tale

You can take the future

Even if you fail

I believe in angels

Something good in everything I see

I believe in angels

When I know the time is right for me

I'll cross the stream

I have a dream

COMPANY:

I have a dream

A fantasy

To help me through

Reality

And my destination

Makes it worth the while

Pushing through the darkness

Still another mile

I believe in angels

Something good in everything I see

I believe in angels

When I know the time is right for me

I'll cross the stream

I have a dream

I'll cross the stream

SOPHIE:

I have a dream

I'll cross the stream

I have a dream

Bella

2011-04-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

Not much going on that I want to blog about. And I haven't been taking any pictures really. But I did get some of Bella over that last couple of days. She is so funny, and will find a place to lie down anywhere! Here are just a few...

In between Aaron's feet.

Kind of in her pillow :)

And my favorite...in one of Aaron's gun cases!

(Don't you love the shag carpet! One of the many reasons I can't wait to move!!!!)

2011 Goals/Plans

2011-01-25T12:47:00.000-07:00

I have never been one for making goals and when I do, I ~~hardly ever~~ never follow though with them. I guess I'm just not a very motivated person. Last January, Aaron and I had family goals, all of which were "put on hold" because of the events of my Grandfather. I wasn't going to set any this year because the #1 goal just never happens. So this year we have one goal...to get a house! And we are working really hard on it!

But as for me personally I have been thinking about what I want to do this year to better myself as a person, friend, daughter, sister and most importantly as a wife. The number one thing I want to work on this is to stop using the word "if". It is very much a negative word in my vocabulary and I need to remove the negative in my life. My other 'goal' is to find a support group for couples who are going though what we are going though. To get out of my 'slump' there are several things in my life that I need to change, such as moving, but also surrounding myself with people who understand what I am going though and won't judge me for it. Another thing I am working on, is looking at other peoples blogs and facebook status less. I love blogging and facebook, but it very much adds to my depression.

As much as I hope that 2011 is going to be the year, I need to be realistic and at the same time stay positive. (Which is really hard but something else I need to work on)

Wendover Weekend

2011-01-17T11:02:00.000-07:00

Since I will have to work weekends for awhile, we decided to take a short trip to Wendover just to "get-a-way" without having to go too far. Not too much to do there. But we had a king-size jacuzzi suite! The jacuzzi tub was huge!!!! For the most part we didn't even need to leave to casino/hotel.

I only got two pictures of the trip and they were of the drive there. Aaron wanted me to take a picture of the man made tree. (It is the only tree around for miles!!!!)

Our friends, the Cotner's, watched our little dogs for us. I think they had a lot of fun playing with their 2 dogs and their little boy Colton. Colton was so sad when Bella left he even climbed in the kennel with her! :)

Birthday Fun

2011-01-10T10:49:00.000-07:00

Last night was just what I needed. We celebrated my birthday with my family. Mom made me Grampy's fries and Bryant and Elisha made this awesome, Marvin the Martian cake!!!!

They also brought 3 Wii games for us all to play. Micheal Jackson expirence, Just Dance 2 and Dance on Broadway! It was so much fun! Even Mom and Dad got into it!!! MJ was my favorite and the next game I have to get!!!!

In a slump!

2011-01-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

Sorry guys, but this is a depressing post. Because I am depressed. So, if you don't want to get depressed, or if you will get offend STOP READING NOW! My life hasn't turned out the way I'd planed for, but I guess whose does, right!?! Usually, I love my birthday, but this year it was just a day to remind me I am another year older without what I really want. I am told over and over again that there is still time and that I am still young. But the older I get, the more I worry and the more depressed I become. And my living situation isn't helping me at all. We have no room, no privacy and someone who is trying to be our mother. I am normally a very positive person, however living with someone who is negative all the time, really gets to me and is adding very much to my depression. Yet when I talk about moving by the end of this summer I get grief from members of my family and I feel that it's because then they would have to help out more and they don't want to. In order for me to get out of this depression, I need to do what is best for me and not worry about what others think. How is getting our own home a bad thing?! We have put our life on hold and sacrificed a lot to move in here and take care of my Grandma. And I can't do it anymore! I'm sorry, but I just can't for my own sake. I want a good relationship with my Grandma, the way it use to be, but I can't have that living here. I didn't write this to offend anyone, but I did warn you. I don't want sympathy or advise, I just needed to vent and get my feelings out.

New Year and New Toy!!!

2011-01-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

We had a very mellow New Years, since it was snowing so bad all day New Year's Eve, we decided to stay home and play Mario Kart!

Now my new toy! Aaron hates shopping for me and since my brithday is coming up, I told him I wanted a new computer and that I would go get it with him so he would be off the hook! I LOVE IT!!! It is an hp all in one, touch screen! I didn't realize how much I was missing out on in the blogging world! (And the internet world all together!)

Sorry about all the crap in the backround! I was also eating soup!!! :)

Merry Chirstmas

2011-01-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe another Christmas has come and gone! This year it didn't really feel like Christmas. I don't know if it was because our family had such a hard year, or if it's because I could decorate. We did go buy a little tree and once the presents started going under it, it didn't look so sad.

Christmas Eve, we went to a movie with the family, we saw Tangled, and we love it! It was the second time Aaron and I saw it, and we would go again and again! Then we went to mom's and did our Christmas Eve traditions. Then all the siblings headed over to Bryant and Elisha's to spend the night. But not much sleep happened. Again this year, the "in-laws" were first to fall asleep!

Christmas Morning, we went back to Mom and Dad's to open up our presents. We were able to spoil everyone this year and we had so much fun watching them open their gifts!

We surprised Bryant and Elisha and got them a Wii! Bryant screamed like a girl, he was so excited and surprised!

Dad painted this for Aaron. It was a picture Aaron took on his mission in North Carolina, after a second hurricane in a row. We love it!!!

Nanny sent us each a pair of these awesome Canadian mittens. They are so warm!!! And when you put them together, you make a full maple leaf!

I think for the first time ever, I am glad that Christmas is over. But I sure love spending time with my wonderful family!!!

This year's Christmas Letter

2010-12-21T11:40:00.000-07:00

If you didn't get a Christmas letter this year, it's becasue I don't have your address :) So here is what we sent out this year :)

Merry Christmas

from the Sperry's

What a year 2010 has been for us! Full of challenges, changes and adventures.

In July, we moved into my Grandparents house to take care of them. Run their errands, cleaning, some cooking and just be here in case something happens.

In August, I won Brad Paisley tickets from a local radio station! It was so exciting, I never win anything!!! I had no idea that winning qualified me to win a fly-away trip to Nashville, TN to see Reba and George Strait. Well, I won that too!!! So it was a quick trip, but Aaron and I had so much fun! We ate some of the best food in the world, did some site seeing, saw an amazing concert and got soaking wet in a southern rain storm!

In September, our Jeep's engine blew, so it was time for a new car. Because I have been driving my Grandparents Toyota, Highlander we decided to check out what else Toyota had to offer. We got a 2009 Toyota Corolla and we love it!

In October we started taking an oil painting class with my family. It was originally just going to be me, my Mom and Tricia, but it ended up being the whole family! We are having so much fun learning a new talent!

In November, Grandpa got really sick and passed away. This was the first of my four Grandparents to pass away. I've never had to deal with losing someone before and it is completely a new experience for me. But I am so grateful for the family I have and the knowledge that we will all be together forever.

Aaron: Has now been with Frito Lay for 3 years and finally has his own route. It's a lot of hours and a little bit of a pay cut, but it is really good for his career. He went deer hunting this year with both his family and mine. He came home with a huge 4 point and was so excited. There's nothing Aaron loves more then hunting, camping and fishing...well except ME!

Charlene: I got a job at eBay and is still in training. So far, loving it, but hating the commute! I went on a scrapbook get-away with Mom and Tricia in Park City this year and we had so much fun! I am working on Aaron's mission album. I haven't been able to craft as much as before, but I do find ways to squeeze some in.

We hope that 2010 treated you all well, and that 2011 will be even better! We are grateful for each of you and hope for only the best. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

To keep up on us all year check out our blog: www.thesperryblog.blogspot.com

PS...All three dogs are doing great and loving Grandma's yard!!!

One of my favorite songs...

2010-12-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

I love Christmas music! Nothing gets me in the spirit fast! "The best way to spread Christmas cheer, is singing loud for all to hear!" But there are so many really good Christmas songs that go under the radar. Here is one of my favorites. It is on Rosie O'Donnell's second Christmas CD and sung by one of my favorites, Jewel.

"Face Of Love"

until tonight

my heart was just half full

I'd never known the fruit which fed the soul

but now i see what may put to rest my longing

for i have seen, the face of love

the grace of god, the face of love

in silence i feared my heart

would remain words unheard

inside a separateness of skin

but now i know that the skin just veils the soul

for i have seen, the face of love

the grace of god, the face of love

so take my hand and knowing

with it i also give my heart

wanting never to be separate again

let eternity begin

if you were flame

I'd allow myself to be consumed completely

were you wind i would wish you pass through me

but now i know that the skin just veils the soul

for i have seen, the face of love

the grace of god, the face of love

This song has new meaning to me this year. I have really been missing my Grandpa, and when I am driving home at 11:30 each night, I sing with him. This is one of "our" favorites. Right before he passed away, he asked me to keep singing and now I feel that I should be working on that talent again.

Turkey Day 2010

2010-11-25T20:33:00.000-07:00

We had a very busy Thanksgiving this year! Aaron had to work a little bit, but was home by 10:30. So we went to see MegaMind with my siblings and Bryant's in-laws. They put us in the wrong theatre, so we all got free movie passes! Then Aaron and I went to the Sperry's for Thanksgiving "lunch". I forgot the camera :( We had fun playing with ours nieces and nephews! But we'll definitley need to see the chiropractor on Monday! Once we left there, we ran home and got Grandma and brought her to my Mom's for Thanksgiving dinner. WE ATE SO MUCH TODAY!!!!

Here are some pictures of the evening.

Andrei

Wendy and EmmaLee

Picking my cousin name for Christmas

Jackie, Me, and Robyn

Ryan and Dad

Double Trouble!

Aaron by the end of the day!

You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

2010-11-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

Thursday, November 18th 2010 was Grandpa Brown's viewing. It was amazing to see how many people came to pay their respects to their family member, friend, co-worker and teacher. Grandpa truly touched many people's lives.

Friday, November 19th 2010 was Grandpa's funeral. There was another viewing at 11:00 AM and again I was amazed by all the people. Sadly, not everyone got to see him. We had a family prayer and then we said our "final" goodbyes before they closed the coffin. (That was the hardest part.) Then we had the funeral at 12. It was a beautiful ceremony. Then we headed to the graveyard. (The next hardest part.)

Here are a few pictures of me and Grandpa.

"A Grandpa is someone you never outgrow your need for." -Unknown

Holding his first Grandchild

Temple Square

Taking me on some rides at Hershey Park

Grandpa has a picture napping with each of his Grandchildren :)

My 15th Birthday

My 16th Birthday

At our wedding

I love and miss you Grandpa. We'll be together again someday.

Grandpa Brown

2010-11-14T18:06:00.000-07:00

Today at 8:35 AM, Grandpa Brown passed away in his sleep. He will truly be missed but is in a better place and we know that we will see him again. We are grateful that he is no longer in pain and is reunited with his parents who he hasn't seen in over 50 years.

I love you Grandpa!

Over a Year!

2010-11-10T15:32:00.000-07:00

It's been over a year since I left my last job. And up until recently I haven't wanted to work. But I can't wait to go back! I got a job at....

I am so excited!!! I start this Monday!!!!

Halloween

2010-10-31T15:14:00.000-07:00

This year we went over to Bryant and Elisha's for some pumpkin carving. We started off by eating pizza and watching Hocus Pocus. Once we all had eaten, and Tricia had eaten 3 times we started carving pumpkins.

Mine, Tricia's, Aaron's, Elisha's and Bryant's

Mine up close

Aaron's up close

We didn't dress up at all this year. However, we did find the perfect costume for John! (He looks like he hates clothes, but honestly he LOVES clothes!)

For those of you who know John, know that he snorts A LOT! We call him a pig all the time! So when we found this pig costumes we just had to get it for him! He really does love it! (He needed to go potty when we took these pictures.)

10 Of My Favorite Things

2010-10-18T17:15:00.000-07:00

So my brother wrote a blog about 10 of his favorite things that aren't people. I loved the idea and had to write one myself. At first I thought it would be easy. But as I started thinking of what makes me happy that aren't people I wasn't sure what really makes me happy. That was at first...once I started writing I was more worried about only having 10! I am the type of person that once I fall in love with something, I become very passionate about it!

10 - Smartfood Popcorn

I just LOVE Smartfood Popcorn! When Aaron brings me home a bag I get so excited! The only problem is I can't stop eating it when I open a new bag! (So, I've asked Aaron to get smaller bags) My favorite part is licking my fingers when I'm all done!

9 - The Eagles (ROAD TRIPS!)

Now I love music! But The Eagles aren't even in my top 10 favorite singers. (I know what you're thinking!) The Eagles make me so happy! Every time I hear one of their songs I get so excited! I enjoy them so much because of the feeling I have when I hear them. They make me think of road trips! I love seeing different parts of the country. I only need 10 more states to see all 50!

8 - Pens

I have worked hard on my handwriting. Ever since I was a little girl, I wanted my handwriting to look like my moms. It doesn't look like hers (although I can forge her name!). I love my handwriting and I only write with pens. I love all types of pens. My favorite though is Pentel R.S.V.P. which I have a hard time finding.

7 - Stars

Stars reminds me that there is more to life then the time on this earth. This summer while camping I was able to watch a meteor shower. I was in awe! I am always amazed with the fact that most stars are burned out by the time we can see them. Stars are fascinating!

6 - Pictures

When talking about what I would save in a fire, the first thing I say is my photos albums. (That might be because I don't have kids) Looking at picture make me think of all the good times. (That might be because I don't take pictures of the bad times, but who wants to remember those anyway!) I love reminiscing and sharing memories.

5 - Thunderstorms

Oh how I miss New Jersey thunderstorms! I get so excited when it starts getting cloudy and raining. But then I remember I'm in Utah and it will be over in 15 minutes or less. But that aside, I love the smell, sounds and feelings of thunderstorms. They remind me of growing up and having to eat all the ice cream so it wouldn't melt in a power-outage.

4 - Thursdays

Thursdays have always been my favorite day of the week! Well, the more I think about it the more I realize I have a love/hate relationship with Thursdays. (At least right now because Thursdays are the hardest with my Grandparents.) But what I love about Thursdays is how close it is to the weekends, TV, and payday!

3 - Crafting

DUH! I wasn't going to put this here because of how plainly obvious it is! I just love crafting, making something with my hands. (Even though they give out on me sometimes.) I also love learning new crafts. I love knitting, scrapbooking, painting (now two kinds), making cards, and making jewelry (new!). I am always thinking of new things to make or looking at things to remodel!

2 - TV

Hi, my name is Charlene and I'm a TV-aholic! I know that some of you might judge me because I watch so much TV, but I don't care. I love TV! Here are some of my favorites. GLEE, M*A*S*H, ER, Vampire Diaries, The Office, and The Simpsons.

1 - My Dogs

It took me 21 years to get over my fear of dogs, and nothing makes me happier! I love when I make a funny noise and my dog tilts his head to the side. I think they make me so happy because dogs in general are so happy! I love going to Pet Smart and parks meeting other dogs. I have truly become passionate about dogs. I love learning about new breeds and learning about how to protect dogs from over breeding and puppy mills. I love dogs!

(I think my brother did a better job with his blog...I mentioned people!)

New Talent?

2010-10-14T12:05:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday I took an oil painting class with Mom, Tricia and Bryant. We has so much fun! This week Aaron and Dad thought they'd give it a try too!

Here's what we have so far :)

This is mine....now it doesn't look like much because when I went this week, the teacher forgot my book so I had to pick another one. At first I was really upset. But when I started working on a new picture it all started coming together!

This is Aaron's. He wasn't sure if he wanted to go. He worked a very long day and just wanted to come home and relax. But very quickly realized that painting was a great way to relax and he really enjoyed it! And I think it's turning out great!

Next week, I'll take pictures of the rest of the families! I think my family may have a hidden talent to oil paint! Now we just need Elisha and Andrew to start coming and see what they can do. :)

Canadian Thanksgiving

2010-10-13T15:43:00.000-07:00

I love Canadian Thanksgiving! Who wouldn't!? Another Thanksgiving meal!?!?! Heck YA!

We have made Canadian Thanksgiving In-Law and "adopted" family members Thanksgiving. It has been so much fun. This year Aaron's parents and Elisha's parents and Grandma came. Nolan, Ryan and Jake, Chante and Xander all came too. And my parents friends the Everett's came, but I forgot to take pictures after we ate.

Elisha with her Mom and Grandma

Tricia, Xan and Chante

Bryant and his Father-In-Law

Nolan, Jake and Ryan

Me and my Sisters :)

My In-Laws

This was also my first Canadian Thanksgiving as a Canadian!!!!

Fun Filled Weekend!

2010-09-29T11:18:00.001-07:00

So, before I won the trip to Nashville, I won Brad Paisley tickets! (WE LOVE BRAD PAISLEY!!!!!) The concert was last Friday night. He was amazing! He put on such a good show! My only complaint was the parking at Usana. We didn't even move for an hour!

Once we finally left Usana, we ran home and I grab my bags. My sweet husband drove me up to Park City to meet my Mom and sister, Tricia. I got up there about 1:30 AM. Aaron spent Saturday fishing with my Dad and Jake Wilson. I spent Saturday with my favorite girls scrapbooking! I am working on Aaron's mission scrapbook, Mom is working on Andrew's baby albums and Tricia was working on her baby albums. I didn't get as much done as I wanted, but it was so much fun!

Nashville!!!

2010-09-15T14:54:00.000-07:00

Aaron and I weren't able to celebrate our 6th Anniversary in August. He was gone the 2 weeks surrounding our Anniversary. However, while he was gone, I won a trip to Nashville, TN to see Reba McEntire and George Strait in concert. So we decided this would be our anniversary celebration! And what a way to celebrate!

Downtown Nashville at night, know as the Honky Tonk! :)

The view from the walking bridge right before we got poured on!

Us, soaking wet under the walking bridge!

The Bridgestone Arena where the concert was...it is HUGE!

LeeAnn Womack

Here comes REBA!!!!!!!

Reba with Melissa Peterman...I was laughing so hard during here skit! She is so funny!

George Strait

Me at Diana's Diner :)

We had such a great trip...short but great! Some of the best food I've ever had was in Nashville! We ate some where different every meal and loved it!

We have really enjoyed our last 6 years together! Though the good times and the bad times we have only become stronger. I love you Aaron! :)

Tired Aaron?!?!

2010-09-01T19:32:00.000-07:00

We have had a lot happening to us. The biggest thing being the car dying! Aaron was in Rock Springs, Wyoming last week for work. 10 minutes from Rock Springs the engine blew out. So, he had to spend the night in the Frito Lay bin in Rock Springs. My dad picked him up on Saturday and they went fishing at Flaming Gorge all day and didn't get home until 11:00 pm on Saturday. But Aaron had to work Sunday really early! When he got home from work this is what he showed me! He was so tired and out of it he didn't even realize he had 2 different shoes on!

I am so grateful for Aaron! He works so hard for our little family.

Sperry Time

2010-08-25T22:25:00.000-07:00

I don't seem to talk about the Sperry's very often...sadly, we end up doing more with my family. But, Aaron does have a great family and we do love them!

On Sunday, August 22, our nephew Jereme was ordained an Elder. He is now headed to Utah State for school. Congratulations Jereme! He was also awarded his Eagle on Sunday!

Rod and Lyndee and their 4 boys.

L to R: Kenley, Kayden, Jereme and Jayson

My father in-law Ron, Jereme and Rod

Lyndee, Jereme and Rod

Receiving his Eagle!

Getting everything ready for a yummy lunch! :) Aaron helped with the BBQ!

And some pictures of the some of the nephews. I could have sworn that I took more pictures of all the kids, but I guess not.

We had a great time! And we just want to congratulate Jereme again!

Family Campout 2010

2010-08-23T13:59:00.000-07:00

This year out camp out was August 12-15. We went to Current Creek and had a much more enjoyable time! :) It was such a relaxing trip and I think it was much needed by all! :)

There was lots of building, relaxing and playing with the fire!

There was lots of time to enjoy our favorite activities! (My craft will be posted on my craft blog soon and I forgot to take pictures of all the games we played!)

Of course, what camping trip would be complete with out lots and lots of yummy food! :)

All the boys in the family have a machete, but it was Mom and I who enjoyed them the most! We loved going and getting branches for the fire. Also, Mom tipped her first tree this year and ~~liked~~ LOVED it!

And like every year, the little pups come with us! This year, Aaron and I bought a small gate/kennel for them to stay in so we weren't tripping over their leashes. (And I don't like them being tied up) It was a great purchase!

We had a great camp-out and can't wait for next years! I am planning some surprises for the family already! ;)

My New Blog

2010-08-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

I created a new blog to journal our experiences while taking care of my grandparents. Check it out :)

http://www.grandparents101.blogspot.com/

The 24th of July

2010-07-29T16:29:00.000-07:00

We had such a fun 24th of July! But it really started on the 23rd. I invited all the cousins to sleep over. We set up a tent outside and played all sorts of games! Apples to Apples, Capture the Flag, Uno Attack, Mafia, and more! Everyone brought their favorite sweet to share, so we were all pretty wired! Then on the 24th, we played more games waiting for everyone else to come for a BBQ. We played Nertz, and Mow. (Two family favorites!) There was a lot of yummy food and great memories! I honestly have the best family!

Tricia, Emmalee, Robyn and Andrei playing cards

Grandpa home and eyeing the food! :)

Jackie and Robyn did a lot to help Grandma and Me get ready for the BBQ!

Making french fries!

Our master chef, Steve!

Time to eat! :)

And of course my hunny!!!! :)

In other news, we are doing well. We have finished moving into Grandma's, but still have a lot to unpack and such. Grandpa is doing really well being home. He loves having us around and is loving the dogs. They keep me really busy, but it feels good to serve.

Aaron and I started the HCG diet on Monday (the 26th). So far so good. We are starving, but it will only be for 3 weeks. I have lost 4lbs. and Aaron has lost over 10lbs!

I hope to start blogging again more often, and start crafting soon!

Grandpa Charlie Brown

2010-05-21T16:11:00.000-07:00

I have been very blessed in my life. I am 26 years old, and still have all 4 grandparents. I have always been close to them. (Even though we haven't always lived close.) I love my family and grateful to have such wonderful, loving grandparents. Both sets have been married over 50 years and have taught me great lessons for my own marriage.

My Grandpa Brown has been sick for a while now. Last week we had to take him to the hospital and we are going to have to find somewhere for him to live. And as hard as it has been for me...a spoiled granddaughter, I can't even being to imagine how my Grandma feels. Her whole life has been about taking care of her family. Her husband and 4 kids. Now she is alone. I go over everyday and make sure she is ok, but most of the time she is wanting to take care of me. She is a much stronger woman that I thought she was. I see her everyday talk to my Grandpa, and even when we can't understand him, she is clam and loving with him.

I am so proud of my family for coming together and helping one another. I love everyone so much. What's meant to be will be, we just all need to remember that we are family and we will all be together forever.

Me and Grandpa at my 25th birthday! I love that smile!

Richfield

2010-04-08T11:48:00.001-07:00

Richfield is one of my favorite places in Utah. My Grandparents use to take me down there on day trips. We would go down to the antique store and then eat lunch/dinner at the Little Wonder, which has a cute little store upstairs. Well, last Monday (April 5), everybody had the day off. (Except Bryant and Elisha) So we decided to take a trip down there! :) We had so much fun. On the way home we stopped at the Manti Temple. It is so pretty, it looks like a castle! (Yes the pictures are in the wrong order!)

My two "new" finds at the antique store! The dish fits in my living room perfectly! I love it! (So does Aaron!) And Aaron found me this hat! I love old hats! I started collecting them when I was a senior in high school. It all started when I was in the school play, Brigadoon. I didn't have any major role, but in the end, I got to wear a 50's style outfit, with hat and all! (And I got to keep the hat!) My new red hat is number 5 in my collection. :)

Please Don't Go

2010-03-29T18:20:00.000-07:00

This is what Jon does whenever one of use leaves though the garage. He hates it when one of us leaves. He will stay like that till we come home. Seeing him like this makes me laugh, but also a little sad. But the funniest part about it, is that when Aaron does come home, Jon will still stay with me and not really pay Aaron much attention. He just wants us all to be home, all the time.

I love how loyal our dogs are. :)

How did she do it!?!?!

2010-03-15T11:36:00.001-07:00

2010 has already brought big changes and trials. The biggest one being that Aaron now travels for work. He has already taken 2, week long trips. This leaves me not only alone, but stranded at home, since we only have one car and he has to take it. I can't help be think of my Mom. Growing up, my Dad traveled all the time, and for weeks, sometimes months at a time. My Mom had two, three and later four children to take care of and she worked full-time. I know that she had to depend on friends and ward members, who became a second family to us. Now, I can in no way imagine what she had to go through. I don't have children and I am blessed enough to live next door to my family, but I can't help but wonder how she did it. I hate the weeks that Aaron's not here. I don't sleep well, I can't go anywhere, and I worry about him.

I hope I don't sound like I am complaining. We are very happy that Aaron even has a job right now. Frito-Lay is very good to Aaron and he likes what he does. And when he does go out of town, he gets a bigger paycheck! Also, the house stays cleaner! :) I just wish that I had something to do, or that someone would visit me. You can only talk to the dogs so much before you start going crazy!

Blogging Question!?!

2010-02-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

Kind of a stupid question, but I need help from my blogging buddies. How do you get 3 columns? Also, does anyone know how to create buttons?

Thanks friends :)

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard2_2.php#ixzz0eyZpUpqD

I DID IT!!!

2010-01-30T17:06:00.006-07:00

The time has come friends for me to create me own craft blog! Even though you all voted and said 'no', I had too. I visit many craft blogs and decided to join their world of sharing crafts. So check it out!

www.charlydanscrafts.blogspot.com

It is a work in progress, but I am super excited!!!!! :)

Read more: http://www.mylivesignature.com/wizard2_2.php#ixzz0eyZpUpqD

Friends

2010-01-24T20:43:00.004-07:00

Warning....Long Blog!!!

For some reason friends have been on my mind lately. I am not the type of person to have a lot of friends. For me it's about quality not quantity. In my life I have had a lot of friends, but have only stayed close with and call a handful to be my "best friend". Now every person I have called friend has meant something to me. (I don't use the word lightly.) But a friends come into your life for a reason, and that reason may be for a long period of time or a short period of time. I want to take some time to highlight and thank my closest friends. (They are in order of when we met.)

Cherilyn

Cherilyn and I met in Mrs. Wilson 2nd grade class in 1991. I was the new girl and very nervous. I don't remember a lot from so long ago, but I do remember Cherilyn. How could you not....everyone who meets her remembers her! Cherilyn and I became friends fast! We did projects together, confused teachers with our names and talked about boys. The hardest part about leaving New Jersey was leaving Cher. I have hundreds of stories I could tell you about Cher and I!!! Cherilyn was the only one of my friends to make the trip out to Utah and visit me, and I surprised her in New Jersey. We try so hard to stay in touch, but life happens. We still talk as much as we can and I look forward to the calls, no matter how short. (And I always talk like her for a couple days after we talk!)

Dianna

I met Dianna in Ledgewood 1st Ward in 1991. She is about a year younger than me, but we were fast friends. The worst sunburn I have ever had, I got from going to the beach with Dianna and her family! But I got to spend the whole week at her house because her Mom felt so bad and didn't want my Mom to know! After moving to Utah, when Dianna graduate she came out here to school at BYU and we picked our friendship right where we left off. Dianna was the Maid of Honor at my wedding and a year later got married on my anniversary! The following year we met up with Dianna and her husband, Dave, in Oahu, Hawaii! (We didn't plan it, we just both happened to plan Hawaii trips for our anniversaries, so we had to meet up!) They are our IHOP buddies! Dianna and Dave came out from Texas and supported us for our sealing.

Diana

Yes, another Diana. We met in 9th grade science class! (About 1998) I again was the "new kid" We weren't fast "best" friends, that didn't happen until I moved in the 18th Ward in West Valley. She lived right down the street! Diana and I have been thought a lot together. Boyfriends, heart-ache, and much more. Diana is the one who introduced me to Vanessa Carlton. Diana and I go see every Sandra Bullock movie together as close to the opening date as possible. A lot of what Diana and I have been though, I don't want to blog about. We have been though so much personal stuff together and has made us such strong friends because of it. I couldn't image life without her!

Jake

Oh Jake! Most of you know that Jake and I have been best friends since the day we met! Which in and of it's self is a hilarious story! Bryant and I were new to the 18th Ward and didn't really know anyone. We had Youth Conference and when Bryant and I got home Mom and Dad were gone. It was a new house to us and didn't yet have keys, so we started looking for ways to break in. We were on the side of the house when Jake rode by on his bike. He helped us break in. Dad was so mad because we didn't know this kid. Who would have thought that we would be best friends and he would just walk into our house when ever! Jake and I were inseparable all thought high school, where were one was so was the other! I was the one who made Jake sluff for the first time, and every time we sluffed we'd watch Shrek. Jake and I always talked about growing old together and needed hip replacements and oxygen takes, but there was never more than friendship. Because he was a boy, his friendship was very different then my other "best friends", but in a good way. Jake was always there when I needed him and never asked "why". He always has a laugh for me and knows how to make me smile.

Tanya
Tanya and I meet at Marriott some time in 2007. We didn't become fast friends, but she sure tried. (I was mad that our manager made her sit in the desk next to me because it was my friend PJ's who was on leave of absents) It became her permanent desk and our friendship took off! I have traveled with Tanya more than another friend....which is kind of sad because it was twice! Once to California and then to DC. Tanya and I have so much in common, the joke we have is "Which one's Tanya, which one's Charlene!?!? I don't know!?!?!"

I cherish all of my friends and couldn't imagine my life without them. Now, no friendship is perfect, I have had hard times with each of these friends, but when all is said and done we only become stronger. I wrote about these 5 because, like I said some friends come and go, but some stay with you for ever. I hope and pray that these amazing people will always be my "best friends". I hope that they know that I am always here for them. I also hope for the list t grow and I have more "best friends" come into my life. :)

Catch-up and Crafts

2010-01-20T09:09:00.005-07:00

Since my last posted we haven't been up to a whole lot. New Years we usually just stay home and spending evening together. This year we stopped by mom's to visit with my uncle Steve and cousins John and Jen and their wonderful family. We wish John and Jen lived closer so we can see them more. Jen made us this awesome sign! I just love it! I put it in the kitchen above the window....it matches the sunflowers perfectly! Thanks Jen!!!!

Aaron's brother, Nathan invited us over to play games with him and his family. His wife Melissa and their two boy, Nicholas and Joshua. We had a lot of fun and can't wait to hang out with them again.

We didn't have much money for Christmas this year, so I got crafty and thought of these letters all my self! :) I made the "BROWN" first, one for mom and one for my sister-in-law Elisha. Mom liked her so much she had me make one for our friends the Everett's!

I made this nativity for my mother-in-law. I was going to make her a "SPERRY" name like above, but the "P" doesn't stand! I figure it out though, because I want one! :)

Not much else has happened, I am another year older. I am now 26 and now in my "LATE TWENTIES!!!!" AHHHHH!!!! Where does the time go!?!?! For my birthday we got a Wii and Wii fit, I love it! (We also got Super Mario Brothers!) :)

Christmas 2009

2009-12-28T10:50:00.004-07:00

We had a wonderful Christmas! Christmas Eve, we went to my parents house for dinner and our Christmas Eve traditions which include hanging stockings, new pj's, the Christmas story, sharing talents, siblings memories, and focusing on the true meaning for Christmas, Jesus Christ. Then we headed home with all my siblings! We all sleep at my house on Christmas Eve! Aaron and Elisha were the first asleep...the 4 of us stayed up and talked and laughed till about 12:30! I love my siblings so much!

Tricia

Andrew

Mom and Dad Christmas morning

Aaron and I

Andrew, Bryant and Elisha

Mom and Tricia

Dad and Andrew

Christmas Morning Dinner was at Grandma and Grandpa Browns! We had so much fun!

We love Christmas and hope everyone enjoyed theirs as well!

25 Things About Me...

2009-12-21T20:02:00.004-07:00

I saw this on my friend Julie's blog and thought it would be fun since I haven't posted in awhile and don't have anything else to share or talk about!

1. I love animals...but mostly dogs! (And think Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the sweetest dogs ever!)

2. I am the oldest of 4, 2 brothers and a sister...and we are uncommonly close!

3. I love SLEEP and can never seem to get enough.

4. I absolutely hate traffic, there is nothing that makes me angrier!

5. I love crafting, and tend to surprise myself with my crafts!

6. I am a horrible speller and often change what I am writing because I can't spell a word :)

7. I love T.V.

8. I am a scrapbooker and cardmaker

9. I am really good at finding bargains and rarely pay full price for anything!

10. I only need to visit 11 more states to see all 50...I have only add one since being married, most of the states I have visited were when I was young.

11. I love to clean, but I don't clean toilets. My Mom told that to Aaron when we were engaged, and he has cleaned it without complaints!

12. I never iron! When the clothes are dry, I turn the dryer on again for about 10 minutes till there hot and I lay the clothes out on the bed, then when they are cool, I hang them up!

13. I have been married for almost 5 1/2 years!

14. I love Christmas and love decorating for Christmas. I even pull out Christmas dishes this time of year!

15. I have to have my Disney movies in alphabetical order!

16. I love gloves and scarfs! (but no hats...I look silly in them!)

17. My best friend is a boy...Jake Wilson...we have been best friends for 10 years.

18. I am VERY stubborn!

19. I am a very picky eater, but I love asparagus!

20. I go see every Sandra Bullock movie with my best (girl) friend Diana! (We try to go as close to the opening as possible!)

21. I am very organized and very OCD = don't touch anything...I will know! :)

22. I love my birthday! JANUARY 4TH!!! It is really my favorite day of the year!

23. I love getting cards/letters in the mail. (but never get them)

24. I love having friends over and hosting party's and get-togethers, but can't get anyone to come.

25. I have loved Marvin the Martin since I was a kid! I have over 200 items with Marvin, but bought maybe 3 of them....I said I liked Marvin once and friends and family took it from there!

So I tag who ever feels like do this...have fun! :)

RULES: Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 25 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it's because I want to know more about you.