{ THE HOUSE OF BUNKER }

Jimmer and the Jazz

2012-02-02T16:11:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night we went to the Jazz game against the Sacramento kings. It was lots of fun and Brian was all excited because he got to see Jimmer play. I had heard about Jimmer but didn't really know who he was or anything { i know, big shock! } but I can now admit I am a fan too.

It was neat that even though Jimmer played for the opposing team how everyone cheered for him when he came out at the beginning and whenever he made a basket. We cheered lots too :)

Highlights included a yummy dinner before-hand in the basement of the energy solutions arena, watching a poor guy in the audience get pelted with silly string by the jazz bear, obviously watching Jimmer play, and seeing some seriously cute girls dance, making me miss it more than ever.

Thanks for taking me out on the town love. Also thanks to such great friends who got us the tickets because they knew Brian really wanted to go. You are seriously the best.

picture { sneaker } inner

2012-01-24T16:08:00.000-08:00

The other night while Brian and I were out I was { attempting } to take a picture of what I thought was just us. Today I was wondering if any of them turned out when I saw this! What the heck? I almost died! That creepy smile, gazing into my camera!!! HAHAHAHAHAAA!

Our lazy weekend

2012-01-15T15:22:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Nan

2012-01-05T16:11:00.000-08:00

To the lady who put grand in grandma! Glad we could spend your special day together. You just get better with time :)

The happiest of new years

2012-01-04T15:26:00.000-08:00

We celebrated new years at the Bunkers house this year and it turned out to be lots of fun. The kids had the traditional fireworks and sparklers and some { Bunker Busters }from long ago even made their debut.

It was a beautiful new years night and made me reflect on all that happened to us during the year. It was a big year for us and one that helped us grow in so many ways.

We experienced fun by: making and spending time with new friends, late night backgammon tournaments, trying new things, planning a weekly date night, getting out more in the beautiful outdoors, many trips to the cabin, going on vacation to coronado and to see family, traveling and taking beautiful pictures with our new camera, spending time together doing creative things and creating new traditions of our own.

We accomplished by: Brian deciding to go back to school, and starting at Weber University! Hooray Bri! Reading lots of new books, blogging more about our lives, getting into a workout routine and dropping a few lbs, becoming healthier and more informed on my health and the adventures that lay ahead :) , making journaling a habit that stuck, having a much more organized home, and schedule.

We grew by: going through the centerville storm and filing our first home insurance claim, patching our own roof and doing repairs, having to lose a special loved one, strengthening our marriage and our testimony's by spending time on what matters most, learning to be ready for life and what may come.

We learned that: life goes by quicker than you can imagine and it won't stop or slow down just because you are busy, spending time with loved ones and serving them is pretty much all that matters, there is always time for a prayer of gratitude, the world is beautiful and one should spend a good amount of time in nature finding out why, that there is a plan for everyone and finding out what that plan is can sometimes be tough but so worth it.

This year was a big year for us. I don't really think I knew how big until I sat down and read my journal about the last year and everything that happened. I am thankful for everything that happened last year even though some of the things that happened I would have never chosen to go through. I know 2011 will always be a year Brian and I remember and we look forward to 2012. It will be a big year for our family too and I can't wait to see what happens.

We love all of you so much. Happy 2012 friends.

The cartoon version of myself. . .

2012-01-02T15:20:00.000-08:00

I was taken quite by surprise when our IT team posted this for the new year. It is some of our staff turned into cartoons/avatars! I have never been turned into a cartoon before, I kind of like it!

Can you guess which one is me? haha!

I am at the bottom with the wavy hair and fur collar. My company does really cool things with DNA and can help you find your ancestral past! For more info go here.

{ Happy Birthday Dad }

2011-12-29T14:42:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dad! You are the best "Delta Nu" I know!

Our very own { not so little } natural disaster

2011-12-16T15:18:00.000-08:00

Last week I had my own wizard of oz experience when the wind storms hit our little town of Centerville.

The winds howled all night, none of the three of us got any sleep. I kept dreaming of the house blowing away and the roof floating off, and the storm sucking us out into the dark.

Walking outside in the morning i didn't even recognize parts of my neighborhood. I knew the winds had been strong, but I never expected to see the things I did.

Signs twisted like taffy, fences toppled like toothpicks, and trees pulled right out of the ground.

Our own little house weathered a little damage but we felt so incredibly blessed as we saw the damage others had endured. We lost a few sections of fence, some shingles, screens and gutters, and power for quite a while.

Once I made sure our house was secure, I went to head out for work and realized my car had a flat tire with two nails. Brian had to come to my rescue and attach my spare.

I feel that between pop dying, this happening and the holidays coming out of nowhere, I am still trying to catch my breath. I am keeping my fingers crossed nothing else happens for a while!

God be with you til we meet again

2011-12-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

You know. . . I don't think there is anything in life that can prepare you to lose someone you love.

I sure wasn't prepared, and don't think I will ever be used to this sort of loss, these random tears and moments of sadness and heartache.

The morning he passed away I felt shock. I don't think my brain actually allowed me to accept what was happening until it was all over, which I completely appreciate. I don't think I could have done it otherwise.

It was a busy week mixed with many different emotions. We hurried to prepare for his funeral and worked late into the night on displays, his obituary, calling relatives and preparing our talks for the funeral. It has been the most spiritual period of my whole life and although we were trying to cope, I wouldn't trade the experiences of that time for anything.

I stayed at my moms an entire week. I was afraid of what would happen to me emotionally if I left the comfort of her home to go and try to tackle my own life. I guess we all felt we would have a better chance of getting through it if we stayed together... so we did.

He was one of my best friends. I spent every Wednesday by his bedside eating, watching old western re-runs, and laughing about old memories. I always looked forward to his laugh and the light in his eyes when he saw you walk into a room. I loved his hugs and his selflessness towards everyone he loved. I loved watching him serve my grandmother. I loved the way he looked at her, after all these years. You would have thought he was 20 years old again, seeing her for the first time. I loved his patriotism for his country and the way he always thanked the soldiers. I loved him for bringing nan and I breakfast when I would sleep over, and for picking out one of his shirts for me to sleep in. I loved the integrity with which he lived his life. I loved the beautiful pictures he took and the incredible way he saw the world. I loved our friendship, which out of everything I miss the most I think.

I feel so much for my dear mother who has lost her dad, and for my sweet grandma who has lost her soulmate.

I couldn't go through this without the gospel of Jesus Christ. Knowing what he did so that pop and I could be family for eternity makes this experience take purpose for me, and allow me the peace and comfort that I will see him again.

I love you pops.

Grandma & Grandpa's 60th Celebration

2011-11-28T14:10:00.000-08:00

Grandma and Grandpa Siebenhaar celebrated 60 years of marriage a week ago. They threw a rockin' party downtown at Chuck-o-rama complete with treats, lots of food, and plenty of good german company :)

Each of their children gave a speech and it was so cool to see how much of an example they have given their children to follow their footsteps in marriage.

My favorite moment though was when grandpa got up to speak and said that 60 isn't that big of a number. He said they have been together for 21,900 days and that is alot! He said you have to take marriage one day at a time and to try your best each day to try and make your husband/wife happy.

He said that the hard times in marriage are what have brought them the closest and that it is so important to see the good in every experience.

My goal is to have a 60 year anniversary someday and I hope that I can be as happy as they are in life. I admire so much about these two people and I am thankful for such amazing grandparents who have lead by example.

In loving memory. . .

2011-11-21T14:43:00.000-08:00

Donald Green
"Put your shoulder to the wheel"

Donald Green, 86, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully on November 21, 2011 in Draper, Utah.

He was born on January 23, 1925 in Wendell, Idaho to Bartholomew Lanna Green & Florence Monica Sticka; the youngest of 4 children.

Don spent his wonderful childhood learning the important values of hard work & perseverance which he applied to all areas of his life. Growing up he enjoyed playing the trumpet, fishing & hunting with his dog, "Coke", camping, skiing, geology & rock collecting.

He attended photography school and later went on to achieve a degree from the U of U in Metallurgical Engineering Technology with a 4.0 GPA. Don served his country during WWII as a medic at Presidio in CA and also at Fort Douglas in Salt Lake City giving shots & keeping medical records.

It was there that he met and fell in love with his sweetheart, Belva Alice Maxwell. They were married on January 4, 1946 in Peoa, Utah, and later sealed in the Salt Lake temple on June 16, 1955. Don was romantic & wrote her sweet love notes, took great care of her and served her as long as he could do so.

They had five children; 3 daughters and 2 sons. Don was loving & supportive. He spent time doing fun activities with his children &; taking them on great family vacations.

He worked many years at Kennecott Copper and later started his own photography business, "Don Green Photography". He loved taking pictures and was well known for his aerial, mining, industrial, commercial photography and large scale prints.

Later in life he enjoyed traveling to many continents with his sweetheart and taking beautiful pictures of the world around him. Scenic shots were his favorite.

Don was affectionately known as "Pop" or " Poppy" to his grand and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his dear wife Belva, sons Dr. R. Don Green (Hilary Huong Le), Richard (Amber) Green, daughters, Sharon (Mike) Kirk, Sheila Brown, Pam (Steve) Siebenhaar, 14 grandchildren, and 17 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Lawrence, Clarence and Mildred. We will miss his joyful laugh, talented mind, and loving countenance.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude & thanks to the staffs at Highland Care Center, the Beehive House in Draper, Curo Healthcare and everyone else who worked so lovingly to serve him in his last days, and lastly to the special friends he made during his stay. Thank you for your friendship & love.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 26, 2011 at the Winder 2nd Ward, 1361 East 4000 South. Friends may call from 6-8 p.m. on Friday evening at Goff Mortuary, 8090 S. State Street, Midvale, Utah and 1 hour prior to the services, at the church. Interment, Murray City Cemetery.

We will miss you poppy. . .

Sundays with Enid

2011-11-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

Feel better soon pops

2011-11-10T14:26:00.000-08:00

Pop isn't doing so well right now. He has been really sick lots of times, but I don't think I have ever seen him this sick before. He isn't up for much right now and I miss his wonderful personality and how he would joke around about his problems.

He would sing, "Nobody knows the trouble I've seen, nobody knows my sorrows", then he would look up at you with a straight face to see how you were perceiving his song, and then break into laughter.

I hope he gets better soon. It's no fun at all.

Erin and Travis { Tie the Knot }

2011-11-04T16:12:00.000-07:00

Erin and Travis have been married for just over a month now so I figured I should get to posting about it!

Their sealing was so wonderful and it was the first one I had been to since my own. It was so special to be there and Brian and I noticed that it took place in the same room as ours.

Erin already felt like part of the family before it was "official" and it was so fun to dream up wedding ideas together. Our taste is so similar and dreaming up possibilities was so much fun this summer at the cabin. She is an incredible girl who I can't believe how lucky I am to be cousins with.

The luncheon took place at the jsm building and they had planned an amazing reception in my aunt and uncles backyard that was threatened by the rain. After an hour it stopped and we moved the party outside.

Highlights included the boys " decorating " trav's car, sneaking back for fourths and fifths of the to-die-for food, and court catching the bouquet like she always does.

I am so thankful for this { growing } family of mine and for the close ties that bind us together. We always have a great time together and erin and travs party was so fun to celebrate them and their union.

Congrats you two. . . Cousins forever!

the average pictures were taken by me and the amazing pictures were taken by elizabeth kate photography!

{ Happy Halloweeeeeeeeen }

2011-10-31T16:27:00.000-07:00

{ Happy Birthday Mom }

2011-10-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

{ Thriller at Kingsbury hall }

Thank you for teaching me to love and delight in simple things. Those things have made me the most joyful over the years. Thank you for your example to love and serve people. I learned so much from watching you my whole life.

Thank you for being the evil witch when we played snow white, so that dad could be prince charming and kiss me awake. Thank you for teaching us what happiness truly is and isn't. Thank you for years of amazing meals and treats and for teaching me how to navigate the kitchen.

Thank you for rainy day forts, flooding the sand box, and for summer naps and tomatoes on the back lawn. Thank you for teaching me to love dance and for investing in my talent. Thank you for being my best friend growing up, the one I laughed with, cried with, and couldn't wait to share my best news with.

Thank you for memories that make me smile.

Happy Birthday Mom. You mean the world to me.

On { top } of the world. . .

2011-10-28T13:33:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Brian and I headed out for a little adventure of our own to see all the beautiful fall leaves.

We packed a lunch and headed up to the skyline trail by the Bountiful "B" and borrowed the razor from Brian's parents.

We couldn't figure it why it was so busy until we saw everyone wearing camo and orange. Then we realized it was opening day of hunting season! We laughed and laughed realizing how out of place we were.

We rode very high on the trail until we felt like we were on top of the world. We stopped to hike around, and take some beautiful pictures that took my breath away.

I am really glad we got to have fall this year. It is so amazing to me to see everything change into vibrant colors and cool off for the winter.

A boy and { his } grandma

2011-10-21T16:46:00.000-07:00

One Sunday we went to visit Brian's grandma Enid who lives in Bountiful. We had so much fun with her, and are thankful she lives so close to us.

I love to hear her laugh and watch her sneak back rubs out of Brian every time without fail. { a skill I totally need to learn from her! }

{ Erika } gets married

2011-10-19T15:42:00.000-07:00

Our friend Erika just got married and we are so deliriously happy for her! Out of our group of friends from high school she is the last one to get married thus ending our single era.

As we were all talking about the last fifteen years it is so neat to see what we have experienced together as friends. Boyfriends, high school, sleepovers, road trips, missionaries, college, engagements, weddings, dance, children, christmas parties, girls trips, vacations and more! I honestly still feel like I should be back in high school with these girls and not the emerging adults we now are!

The last picture was taken after we all danced in Erika's surprise flash mob for her husband. He was so surprised and it was so incredible to dance with my best friends again.

We are so happy for you Erika! Steve is one lucky man ;)

General conference weekend

2011-10-10T16:21:00.000-07:00

We enjoyed General Conference so much this last weekend.

It was the best kind of weekend, so relaxing and filled with uplifting things. We stayed in our jammies and Brian made us a yummy breakfast as we listened.

In between sessions on Saturday we rode our bikes to a sandwich shop to grab lunch and enjoyed the fall leaves together.

Honestly, I wish conference was more like four times a year. It is such a blessing to hear from a living Prophet who leads and directs Christ's church. I adore him and the ways he speaks. So full of personality, service, the spirit and love.

Our favorite talks can be found here, here, here, and here.

Derby demo style!

2011-10-05T16:15:00.000-07:00

Our friends invited us to a demolition derby one summer night and we had a blast! I can't decide which was more fun. . . watching cars smash into each other or getting to snug their little one all night!

Jason aldean concert

2011-10-03T12:45:00.000-07:00

Brian talked me into going to the Jason Aldean concert last minute and I am so glad he did.

We have been wanting to see him in concert ever since we met and were able to score some amazing seats near the front. We like Jason Aldean so much because our first dance when we met was to one of his songs, and we have danced to pretty much all of them ever since.

It was our first concert in a long time too, which reminded us how much we have missed them! It doesn't get much better than live music, dancing, and cowboy boots too ;)

I think he is all we listened to in the weeks to follow!

One last ride. . .

2011-10-02T13:18:00.000-07:00

Every year at the end of the summer my heart fills with sadness because I know I have to wait the WHOLE winter AND spring before I get to come back here. Doesn't seem fair does it?

This year though, I swear went by quicker than any other year in history. Sometimes that is when getting older and having more to do gets a bit tough for me. If it were up to me we would spend our summers here. every. single. one.

We got to go on one last ride. There was no one on the water and it was so quiet as the sun was setting. We drove out to the middle and all jumped in reminiscing of all the fun we had that summer. I am sad to say goodbye, but I guess that just means I get to say hello again sooner.

The { Hunt } for Old Ephraim

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

My dad has been dreaming of going on a bear hunt for half of the summer and trying to persuade us to go with him for the rest of it.

This isn't just any old bear we were hunting for of course. . . it is the legendary Old Ephraim of bear lake!

We loaded up the machines and set out for our adventure. Along the way we saw many hidden beautiful places and even got free massages sitting in the back of the razor from all the bumps. I know, what more could you possibly want.

After many explored trails, lots of treats and being bathed in dirt we finally found what we were looking for. The monument for this huge bear who had once lived in bear lake was huge. They built it as tall as he was and taking my families picture next to it made me laugh a little. I couldn't imagine a bear being that big!

This all day trip was such a beautiful memory. It was totally worth it to see my dad grin like a little boy and jog up to the monument that he has been wanting to see for years.

Glad we found your bear dad. . . onto the next great adventure!

{ Fireworks } Extravaganza

2011-09-25T16:29:00.000-07:00

Like every other American I love to watch fireworks. I have seen some pretty amazing shows in my day, but to me the end of summer fireworks in Bountiful by Brian's moms house are the best I have seen.

His brother always goes early to get us good seats and the fireworks lasted almost 40 minutes!

I could have watched them all night but my favorite part was when Brian handed me the camera in the car. "Did you take pictures the whole time", I asked!?

"Yeah, he said grinning. "For your blog. I knew you would want to blog about this so I tried to get some good pictures you can use."

I love those moments where I swear both of us are smiling our silly faces off.

I love fireworks, but the fireworks between me and this boy of mine are my favorite I think :)

{ Raspberry } Days

2011-09-19T16:14:00.000-07:00

Raspberry days is a long standing Siebenhaar tradition. This year was a first for Brian and we have never been able to come together before because it is on his birthday weekend.

Festivities include a parade, a night-time boat show, fireworks, contests, and our all time favorite, the craft fair. We had a great time wandering the booths in search of something fun and quirky to take home.

We ate so well that we spoiled our dinner that night. None of us were hungry because of the Navajo tacos, refillable sodas, fresh barbecue, scones, kettle corn and snow cones! But boy was it delicious.

Happy 24th Birthday Wonderboy!

2011-09-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

It is pretty mind boggling to think once upon a time we were 4 and 6 and that it has turned into 24 and 26. I hardly know where the time goes sometimes.

I still remember you in your ninja turtle jammies coming to wake me up in the morning to go watch mario bros with you. You have always made me laugh and smile.

I love that you email me songs that remind you of me, that you are always trying to make us laugh, that you are always trying to be better, that you always have something fun going on, and I love that you are so loved by others. I love that you would rather have a barbecue at moms than go out for your birthday.

Thanks for always being so excited to see me and for giving us the biggest hugs. I have so many great memories of you and I am excited to be a part of your future ones. . .

Happy birthday little brother. You are so loved.

Our first taste of Coronado

2011-09-10T14:42:00.000-07:00

So we have these fabulous friends who tell us about their adventures in Coronado every year and how beautiful and amazing it is.

When we went to visit family in Cali for labor day, we decided to spend a day in Coronado and boy was it not enough! We should have taken their word for it and planned to stay an extra day.

The beach was so warm and empty and the views were incredible. While Brian was napping I took a long barefoot walk along the beach just snapping pictures and taking it all in. It was amazing how close the seagulls let me get to take their pictures too!

We brought some boogie boards but the water was pretty chilly. That didn't stop me though. Brian took a gazillion pictures of me out in the waves getting hit again and again. They are pretty hilarious. Too hilarious to post on the blog. You might fall off your chair laughing :)

After we went exploring the hotel del coronado. We heard some ridiculously cool stories about the hotel from locals and even got to ride in an old fashioned elevator with an operator and cage and everything.

By the time the sun was setting we had made up our minds we would be back and this time for more than a few hours. Coronado is truly one of our new favorite places.

The big 30!

2011-09-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

My parents just celebrated 30 years of marriage last week. I am so thankful for my parents and for their amazing example of marriage and for teaching me by example what it takes. I have learned so much from them and can hardly wait until my three years turns into 30.

Congrats to you mom and dad. xoxo.

back in { los angeles }

2011-09-07T14:42:00.000-07:00

Jenae and Shane's temple sealing

2011-09-05T14:17:00.000-07:00

My sweet cousin Jenae was sealed to her husband at the temple last month. It was special to attend their sealing and feel of their love for one another. Their kids are truly adorable and we had a wonderful time.

Congrats you guys! We adore you!

Knock, Knock

2011-08-19T15:38:00.000-07:00

{ Birthday } Dinner

2011-08-12T15:33:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Brian's birthday last week by having dinner at our favorite steakhouse. It was an incredible dinner and as always we enjoyed every last bite.

The manager approached our table to see how our meal had been when Brian shocked us all by saying, "This is such a fine establishment. . . It's like eating at Nordstroms!"

I think I laughed for five minutes straight.

Thanks for making it so easy to love you dearest! Happy Birthday!

{ Scout } Camp 2011

2011-08-04T09:32:00.000-07:00

Brian and I got up earlier than we have all year, to take our boys to scout camp up at camp tracy last week. We had an awesome time learning new things, earning merit badges, trying out new skills, observing wildlife, getting dirty, and wearing ourselves out!

Our boys really enjoyed the experience and we did too. I think after we all went home and took a nap!

{ Family Reunion }

2011-08-04T09:22:00.000-07:00

One thing is definitely for sure. Us Germans know how to party!

Bentley { After } The Holiday Weekend

2011-07-14T15:39:00.000-07:00

Scenes from the Fourth { 4th }

2011-07-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

Photos by Erin Tramel

{ Mud Brothers }

2011-07-14T15:23:00.001-07:00

Taken: July 4th, 2011
Time: Dusk, after four wheeling all day
Location: Patio in front of bath house
Reaction: Mud is the new black :)

{ Sparkle Sparkle }

2011-07-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

The lovely and talented Erin { my lucky lucky cousin's fiance } took these incredible pictures of us at the lake this weekend. They are so fun. I have always wanted to learn how to do this and now I know! I am totally framing these and putting them in the cabin.

{ Hiking } we will go!

2011-07-09T22:34:00.000-07:00

Brian and I got called to Scouts a few months back. It has definitely been a change for us, but a welcome one at that with all the energy and laughs these boys provide week after week.

I will be honest, I was sort of terrified about being put in scouts because I don't really have the slightest idea about boys, what they like, or anything scouty for that matter.

Turns out it isn't as hard as I thought! Our boys like to be active, I like to be active, they like to eat yummy treats and so do I, they like to learn new things and I do too!

This week we needed to go on a day hike for one of them to receive his arrow of light award. Brian and I planned to take them together but last minute he had to do something for work so I was left to take them alone.

I have been on many hikes in my lifetime but this one was truly different. I loved hiking behind them hearing them experience everything and laughing at jokes along the way. I think my favorite part was being asked a serious question about nature every five minutes and all their young faces seriously believing I knew the answer. Bless their little hearts.

One hiker warned us about a rattlesnake they had seen { miles } ahead, so around every turn the boys thought they heard rattlesnakes and would run down the trail together. I was left breathless from laughing almost every time I saw them takeoff after "hearing" a rattle.

It was a fantastic day with beautiful scenery and lots of good times.

{ Erin + Travis }

2011-06-30T16:43:00.000-07:00

This week my cousin Travis got engaged to the adorable Erin! We are so tickled for them and can't wait to have her join our family! She already fits in SO well! Congrats lovebirds. xoxo.

Guess { who }

2011-06-30T16:40:00.000-07:00

Guess who just drove home from Oregon, a little richer and never wants to do summer sales again cause he missed his family so dang much!?!?!

THIS GUY!!!

Haha! I was waiting for the perfect moment to use this picture. Love you Ty!

Dreaming of this place today. ..

2011-06-24T15:42:00.000-07:00

Nan and Pop, fathers day bbq

2011-06-24T15:38:00.000-07:00

We are so glad Nan and Pop could come out for a fathers day barbecue. Mom prepared an exceptionally delicious dinner and we ate out on the patio in the perfect weather. We love you guys so much!

Bentley and the bee sting

2011-06-24T15:37:00.002-07:00

While on our nightly walk this week suddenly we heard a buzz and Bentley took off like she had seen a ghost. She was obviously hurt so we carried her home and then laid her on the kitchen table under a bright light to inspect the damage.

I was lucky to find the stinger and pull it out before it could hurt her any more. But I am telling you, it was pretty tough to find a stinger on a little paw the size of a nickle covered in fur.

She has been whiny the last few days but I think she is starting to feel better. Poor girl.

Cupcake run with Courty

2011-06-24T15:37:00.001-07:00

Cakewalk bakery downtown SLC. It is a vegan cupcake shop with gluten free cupcakes. We discovered this after we had eaten a few already. You would never know. They are scrumptious.

Summer flowers

2011-06-24T15:37:00.000-07:00

Ich liebe mein vatti's!

2011-06-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

For all you non German folks :) That means I LOVE my fathers!

Happy Fathers Day to men worth celebrating!!! You mean the world to me and I can't imagine my life without you and your wisdom in it.

Thanks for all the advice, service, laughs, hugs, interest, love, and care in our lives!

Nan on the swings

2011-06-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

{ HELLO, HELLO!!! }

2011-06-17T15:50:00.000-07:00

I am involved in an exciting new project that I think you will like. It is a new fashion and beauty website for Utah. You can see it at WWW.UTAHFASHIONANDBEAUTY.COM

I will like you if you go and see it.

I will love you if you follow it and like it on facebook.

I will be freaking ecstatic if you tell your friends about it too!

Just kidding, I obviously adore you anyways, but I would really like to hear what you think.

We will be posting spotlights, fashion advice, how to's, giveaways, sales alerts, local deals and steals, featuring shops and lots more!

I am so excited about this possible new chapter in my life and the possibilities! Thanks a million! xoxo.

{ Meditation }

2011-06-17T15:49:00.002-07:00

I can't think of a better place to go think and sort out life's mysteries.

{ Little } ones

2011-06-17T15:49:00.001-07:00

Look what we spotted on our bike ride in garden city. Aren't they precious? I wanted to run snuggle one but I don't think the mom would have liked that too much. I got hissed at for getting a little close to snap some pictures.

All of us sat on the banks and watched them for a good 20 minutes. It was bliss to watch the parents take care of their little ones and watch the babies playfully jump into the harbor.

I am so glad I was raised to appreciate the small and precious things in life and to appreciate natural beauty in the world. I enjoy it so much.

{ Napping } runs in the family

2011-06-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

I know. But I couldn't resist snapping this pic. I swear sunday naps are one of the best things in life, and it is nice to have someone to share them with.

{ Birthday } Girl

2011-06-17T15:48:00.001-07:00

My birthday was incredible this year. Not in the big blown out of proportion kind of way, but in the feeling content with my life, happy, and realizing more what is important kind of way.

I always thought I would freak out a little getting older every year, and a do a little, but I am finding just the opposite out. I am in the very exact place I should be doing the exact things I am doing. I find it hard to believe sometimes that my life will just continue to progress and I will become more and more happy as the years go by.

I have this friend who is incredible at writing in her journal, { you know who you are chick :}, and she is always inspiring me do keep one. Well over the last year I have kept better journaling habits than any other year and I am amazed how much my thoughts and actions have grown just in one short year of time.

It is an incredible thing to look back on things { you } have written and see yourself change. I finally get what she is talking about and I love it.

Thanks to all of you for the bundles of phonecalls, texts, emails, birthday cards in the mail, presents on the porch, facebook wishes, and love over the years. I am truly blessed to have so many special people in my life and I know my life is better because you are in it.

The week ended with a new summer dress, some twinkly vintage earrings, red velvet cake, homemade cafe rio salads, walks on the beach and lots of good times.

I am soooo ready for 26... bring it on :)

{ Bike } ride

2011-06-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

Brian and I have become quite the avid bikers lately. We took my parents along for the ride and saw some incredible scenery.

They have the most amazing bike trail along the road in Garden city and it is only 10 miles. It was the perfect ride on the perfect day. Not too hot or cold.

{ Candy buttons }

2011-06-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

The other day I was just getting ready to get in the shower when I heard the doorbell ring. I figured it was UPS or someone so I ignored it.

Then the doorbell rang again, and again, and again, and again.

By this point I was running to grab a robe and get the door. When I opened it, it was a little girl in our neighborhood with her hands behind her back.

I asked her if something was wrong and she just smiled and pulled out some button candy from behind her back and handed it to me.

"I know you really really like these misses bunker so while I was at the dollar store I saw them and thought about you and got them for you with my own money."

I about teared up right there on my porch in my robe!

I think noticing the details about someone is what makes all the difference. I am so impressed she has learned such a valuable skill at such a young age and that she spent her allowance on candy for me! She is too adorable.

I can't wait to get her back :)

{ Lake walking }

2011-06-10T16:19:00.000-07:00

Over memorial weekend at the cabin it was so rainy and cold that the moment it wasn't anymore we were all itching to get out of the cabin.

We took a walk down to the beach and it was lovely. But we did notice one SMALL thing. The rain has caused the lake to rise a good lateral 6 feet. For those of you that do not know lake talk :) that is { really really } something!

We tried to find the place on the beach that Brian proposed to me but it is covered up with water. haha! The rangers estimate it will go up another 6 feet which means we might have no beach at all this year. I love having a beach but I will take whatever I can get!

One thing that hasn't changed though is how beautiful it is up there. My goodness. I can believe it is a real place sometimes. The family had a great time exploring the area, looking for wildlife and running around in the dirt :)

It was so good to be up there for the first time in 9 months. Now if we can only get some sunshine up there I will be as happy as a clam.

{ Too much is too much }

2011-06-10T15:54:00.000-07:00

It has been unusually wet this year and Bear Lake was no exception. As we walked through the cabins in our area you could see the effect the water has had on everything. I think the scariest part was seeing the property sand-bagged and lined for the water! I am SO thankful that the city did this so that we had an undamaged cabin to come back to this spring.

I am thankful for the moisture we have received because I think Utah really needed it. However, now that it could start to flood places and people could lose their houses I think it is time for the wet weather to be done.

{ Centerville Sunsets }

2011-06-10T15:49:00.000-07:00

I have seen some pretty amazing sunsets in my day, but I have to say this one topped them all. I wish I could have taken a picture of the entire sky as I saw it because it was that breath-taking. We both stood outside until the color went away and it was gone. I just love beautiful things in nature.

{ Abbie's special day }

2011-06-10T15:47:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were able to be with my special cousin Abbie as she went through the temple. It was such an incredible experience and it was so nice to be there all together as a family. I imagine that is what it will be like someday :)

{ Snuggle Buddies }

2011-06-10T15:35:00.000-07:00

I couldn't get enough of these two snuggling over the weekend at the cabin! I think they are so adorable. Now if they would only snuggle me like that!

{ Reactions }

2011-06-07T21:01:00.000-07:00

So I have been thinking that I have been rather lazy lately at posting comments on all of your blogs. It's not that I love you any less, it's just that I am in the habit of reading, smiling, and leaving!

I will try to be better :) But if you are like me and come here and read posts without commenting I have done something to solve the problem!

A while ago I added reactions to my blog posts at the bottom near the comments section to see if I liked it or not. Well I do and it makes it easier for you to say what is on your mind by just clicking once instead of logging in, waiting, and taking more time to comment.

Don't get me wrong, I adore comments, I just know if all of you are as busy as me, you would rather click once to add your two cents than have to go through the above process :)

So give it a whirl. I think it is kind of fun.

{ No way I would knock at these doors. . . }

2011-06-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

You are brave Ty. . . Way braver than me. I don't have any idea how you sell all these people on pest control! The things we do for a little $$$ I guess :)

{ Bed Monsters }

2011-06-03T13:31:00.000-07:00

Not sure why she loves to bury herself so much, but I think it is too funny. Those little ears can pop out of my covers any time.

{ The best seat in the house }

2011-06-03T13:30:00.000-07:00

Pop has been pretty sick these last couple of months. He has endured so much and his health is not what it once was. All these events have hurt his spirit a little and have caused him at times to be very sad and down.

This has broken all of our hearts to see him go through so many tough things and to be away from home for so long. I know all of us have been prayerful of his recovery and for his happiness to return.

So you can imagine our surprise when we heard he had a very special visitor last week. A visitor despite his busy schedule had time to sit with my dear grandfather and spend an hour talking to him about life, and trials and memories. He was kind enough to tell him he would pray for him and left him with a blessing.

Talking with Pop after his experience, I know that at his old age he probably couldn't remember everything that was said but remembered the feeling of love in the room.

I know it has had an incredible effect on him as I have watched his countenance change from one visit to the next. He is less concerned with his struggles and more concerned with remembering his memories and the happy times in life.

I wish I could thank this dear man, for being such an incredible example of love and service and for spending time with someone who really needed his influence. I appreciate what he has done so much, and wish I could be so much more like him.

Here is one of his quotes that is my favorite. . .

"The principles of living greatly include the capacity to face trouble with courage, disappointment with cheerfulness, and trial with humility. " Thomas S. Monson

Thank you dear prophet. From the most sincerest place I know.

{ Missing } this brother of mine. . .

2011-06-03T13:29:00.000-07:00

According to my calendar Ty has been gone exactly one month. According to me it has been a month too long. But as you can tell from his pictures, it looks like he is having a blast. I am glad he is enjoying this experience to the fullest in true Ty style. I hope the next month goes super fast. We are super anxious to snug this boy again.

{ Beautiful } park city

2011-05-17T13:12:00.000-07:00

Some more of my favorite sights from our anniversary trip to park city. It was a { lovely } night and rained a bit. That was fine with us because it gave us the excuse to light the fireplace in our hotel room. We don't have a fireplace at home so whenever we get the chance to use one we take it!

We decided we need to head up there again soon and take a day to walk all the old main street shops. They have vintage galore and I was in heaven.

{ 3 year anniversary getaway }

2011-05-16T13:18:00.001-07:00

Brian surprised me by taking us up to Park city for our { 3 } anniversary. I like the way we do our anniversaries, it is kind of fun. Brian plans the odd years and I do the even ones. So far he has out done me a little but I don't mind :)

We had dinner at an { amazing } steakhouse called Ruth's Chris. The food was incredibly delicious and as always we ate it all up! I swear it was the best steak I have ever had. I am already craving another one but I have a feeling it will be a while before we get to go there again.

I { seriously } can't believe three years has come and gone. We had so much fun together just being alone, with no cell phones, hooray!, and getting to talk and laugh about all our memories together over the years.

I am really glad we ended up together and that my life has ended up where it currently is. I genuinely wouldn't change a thing, and he is a huge part of that. I hope the next bunch of years don't go as quick, but I guess time flies when your having fun. . .

Thanks for the fabulous weekend love. I kinda wish every day was our anniversary so I could have you all to myself :)

{ Saturday morning }

2011-05-16T13:15:00.000-07:00

{ Sidewalk messages }

2011-05-16T13:13:00.000-07:00

This was a perfect way to start off our weekend. Thanks to our adorable niece. We love you too!

{ Cinco de cupcake }

2011-05-06T14:26:00.000-07:00

Cinco means five right? So that means I can have five cupcakes? Thought so :)

{ Birthday curry }

2011-05-06T14:20:00.000-07:00

This little tot just turned the big 20! I can hardly believe my eyes how quickly she has grown up! And no longer a teenager!

I took her out to lunch for her birthday and what do you think she wanted to eat?! CURRY!!! Oh it makes me laugh how we have rubbed off on everyone our Indian ways of eating! Haha! It was delightful to say the least and we had a riot.

I adore you so much Courty! I hope your 20th year is incredible! You are too special to put into words.xoxo

{ A typical weekend }

2011-05-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

This weekend we were supposed to spend with the Bunkers, but they were off to Canada, so we headed out to siebville for the weekend. It was the perfect kind of weekend, with nothing really important to do, and we enjoyed the heck out of it.

Highlights included a nap on the back lawn in the sunshine, imported food shopping at Pirate O's in Draper, mini horse watching at the farm, and thrifting for vintage spring dresses.

Seriously nothing could have been more perfect. I love the laid back feel of weekends. It is beginning to feel like summer my friends :)

{ Off to Oregon }

2011-05-06T13:56:00.001-07:00

This boy is off to Oregon for a few months to do summer sales. We already miss him like crazy and totally feel the void he has left in our home. I hope he makes tons of cash so that it is worth it! We miss you Ty!

{ An afternoon with Nan }

2011-04-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

Nan and I had an afternoon together while pop was at a doctors appointment and I decided to take her downtown and walk temple square. It was such a { lovely } day and we enjoyed ourselves so much.

I love seeing things through her eyes because she has different perspectives than me and it is neat to watch her reaction and hear her opinions. She loved meeting all the cute sister missionaries and smelling the beautiful flowers.

This place is very special to me and brings me peace during the difficult times in my life. It stands as a firm reminder that life's problems will pass but that there are { bigger and more important } things that will always remain.

I am thankful for Nan and for the opportunity to spend the day with her. I already want to do it again.

{ No boys allowed }

2011-04-29T14:12:00.000-07:00

Taken: April 22nd, 2011
Time: Dinner Time
Location: Girls night, PF Changs downtown
Reaction: I love you girls!!!

{ Like father like son }

2011-04-29T14:09:00.001-07:00

Taken: January 26th, 2011
Time: Early evening
Location: Elisha's wedding at old church
Reaction: You have no idea the amounts of joy this picture brings my little soul :)

{ Happy doggie }

2011-04-29T14:07:00.000-07:00

Doesn't she look like she is grinning? I think so. . .

{ German sunday }

2011-04-22T14:36:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we roasted German bratwurst over the fire. I seriously have had a hankering for summer and cookouts like this so I was in heaven. I swear that if I closed my eyes I would be sitting around a campfire at bear lake. I wish. If you have never cooked bratwurst over the fire before you are { seriously } missing out.

{ Megan & Cody say I do! }

2011-04-20T13:27:00.001-07:00

Our friends Meagan and Cody got married last weekend in St. George. It was incredible weather and we loved getting to see so many familiar faces and enjoy the celebration of their union.

Meagan made a gorgeous bride and I loved getting to share this special day with them. Their venue was the falls in St. George on the outskirts and had amazing views.

The night ended with a super fun dance party outside under the sunset. As Brian and I danced along with them we talked about how crazy it was that it has almost been three years since we did all of this. I can hardly believe it sometimes how the time has flown.

Congrats friends! We love you and wish you a marriage full of laughter, happiness and good times! Thank you for letting us share your special day :)

{ St. George and the Bear Paw }

2011-04-20T13:11:00.000-07:00

I have a special place in my heart for this little town. I went to Dixie State College in St. George for two years after high school, and in some ways this place feels like a second home to me. I have so many memories here and it was fun to share lots of those with Brian. We skipped town for a wedding and were welcomed with the sun! I was excited because back in salt lake the weather seems confused what season it is.

My roommates and I used to brunch at this amazing place called the Bear Paw. I forgot how huge the portions were and we weren't able to even finish half of it. As always it was delicious!

{ would you like fries with that? }

2011-04-18T15:02:00.001-07:00

In and out burger opened in our neighborhood during the summer last year. We finally braved the crowds { you should see how many people actually wait in line } and got a burger. The night we went the power was out in our city so we decided to go there for dinner. Yum-o!

{ Mini me }

2011-04-18T14:57:00.000-07:00

It is pretty hard to be smaller than Bentley. She is four pounds of furry goodness but it happened last week. This cute lady brought me this toy yorkie to work last week just to be sweet cause she knows we love em! And this is the photo evidence that Bentley actually is bigger than something. haha!

{ Fancy schmancy }

2011-04-13T15:46:00.000-07:00

I of course am referring to the desserts we ate in Vegas. Not me dressed up to eat them all! But if you thought we were both fancy I could easily forgive that . . . easy mistake :)

{ Recognition night }

2011-04-13T15:05:00.000-07:00

In Vegas we got to attend some award dinners for Brian and his company. We got to see lots of familiar faces and celebrate all these cute talented hardworking guys!

Brian won District Manager of the year for his region and was the highest district in the company for overall sales and gross profit. He works so hard for his company and loves his job and it was so fun to see him get recognized for it!

I love you dearest. I am so proud of you and all that you accomplish. You are so amazing to me. xoxo.

{ A room smarter than I am }

2011-04-13T13:37:00.000-07:00

We were fortunate enough to travel to Las Vegas for Brian's annual sales summit for his company. He did really well this year so I was lucky enough to go with him! They always take really good care of us and put us at this beautiful place called the M resort. It is about 15 miles away from the strip and is a lovely hotel. Apparently it is really high tech and I laughed as I tried to figure it all out. Here are some of the highlights:

When you first walk in there are no light switches right by the door like you would think there would be. Instead you see this little slot for you to put your room key in.

As soon as you do all the power in the room turns on. I thought it was pretty clever and had fun taking the key out and watching it turn all off then putting it back in and watching it all turn on.

Then you have the bathroom.

The bathtub had this little shade in front of it. I pressed a button on the wall and then it opened leaving the glass clear so you could see this view of the strip from the bathtub.

Yes I totally took a bath and looked out the window. . . But only before I walked outside and checked that you couldn't see in first!

Then as I was getting ready I clicked a switch in the bathroom by the sink and my mirror turned into a television. Fancy that!

Don't mind all my stuff. . . I am a messy little traveler.

But pretty funny huh? I thought so. I felt pretty clever for figuring it all out. I had never seen anything like it. Brian being all techno savvy like he is loved it all.

{ Room service }

2011-04-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

One sleepy morning in Vegas we ordered room service. Spendy, but oh so worth it. I would be lying if I said we didn't polish it ALL OFF :)

{ Twinners }

2011-04-06T15:23:00.001-07:00

Taken: March 18th
Time: Lunch time
Location: Draper Utah Subway
Reaction: They say everyone has one.

{ welcome spring }

2011-04-06T15:19:00.001-07:00

Glad you made it. I was beginning to wonder. . .

a { look } into the past

2011-04-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

My dad works for our church and for a division called the Bishops Storehouse within the welfare department. Due to all the natural disasters and such that our world is going through they are opening up a huge new warehouse. Over the weekend they did a photo shoot depicting the pioneers and the welfare system. It was pretty cool to see these pictures and imagine them in their new place :)

I bet this is what the pioneers looked like crossing our frozen valley back in the day. My dad was in charge of loading up and bringing the wagons and supplies. I love that he works and does something that he loves. You are cute daddy. xoxo.

{ The Vertical Diner }

2011-03-31T15:52:00.001-07:00

To my delight. . . Court and I are making this sisterly lunch thing a monthly occurrence. Today was her choice and she picked a tiny vegan diner. Her and I are both NOT vegan but gave it a whirl anyways and were pleasantly surprised. Our food was { incredible & healthy } and it was a super upbeat place to go. Sure do love this girl and our new tradition. If you had to guess if we had a blast in my one hour lunch break. . .

You would be correct

let them eat { wedding } cake

2011-03-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

family highlights of the wedding. . .

{ E + D } = The Davidsons

2011-03-29T14:09:00.001-07:00

My cousin Elisha married her love Drew in January. It was such an incredible day filled with lots of emotions. I balled all through the ceremony as I thought of how much she has grown over the years. She is no longer the little girl I used to put makeup on, or dance with, or pull around the beach every summer at bear lake. She is a beautiful woman now and all grown up. I can hardly believe how time has flown. I sure love you lee lee, congrats on your special day. xoxo.

{ Last minute touches }

2011-03-28T17:25:00.000-07:00

Taken: January 26th, 2011 by photographer
Time: 5 minutes before wedding ceremony
Location: Brides dressing room, old church
Reaction: Elisha you are lovely my dear. . .

{ baby } hungry at dinner

2011-03-28T17:17:00.001-07:00

This is what happens folks when my family gets their paws on an infant. Enough already . . . I can take a hint!

A big { family } dinner

2011-03-28T16:57:00.000-07:00

Elisha and Drew tied the knot! This is the night before at their large family dinner. It was super fun and my favorite kind of night! Good food and company :)

{ Sisters lunch }

2011-03-01T15:01:00.000-08:00

This gorgeous sister and I lunched in Sugarhouse today at our favorite spot. She knew I was incredibly busy so she surprised me by driving all the way up to meet me. She even paid for lunch since I forgot my wallet too! Today was filled with lots of hugs, laughs and good times. I love you Courty! Thanks for the highlight of my day!

The { art } of winter wear

2011-03-01T14:27:00.000-08:00

Feelings of Washington D.C.

2011-02-28T14:33:00.000-08:00

I have dreamed of coming to this place my whole life and I am so happy that because Brian worked so hard at his job, I was able to see it all. We loved the culture, and the beautiful history on display. We loved that reminder to always be thankful we live here. I love that the whole city is centered around statehood and government. I love that everywhere you travel in the city, you can see the monuments. I love that D.C. is so reminiscent of the past. I love the old houses, the Georgian feel towards everything. I loved it all.

Road block

2011-02-28T14:25:00.000-08:00

One stop on the bus tour was a look at the Vice Presidents house. It was big with lots of security.

As we were sitting there waiting to turn a bunch of cops blocked the whole road off and waited.

Fifteen minutes went by and we saw an entourage of black suvs. Inside was the Vice President himself returning home for the night.

I thought it was pretty cool but I guess road blocks are just a part of every day life for D.C. folk.

As soon as the cars next to us saw the police section off the road, they put their cars into park and pulled out a book to wait it out! It's hilarious how some things are totally normal in different places.