The Man and The Man's Wife

Momma's Got a New Ride!!

2012-02-12T22:11:00.000-08:00

Maybe after we figure out how to strike it rich.

Singing To My Baby

2012-02-12T22:06:00.000-08:00

Practice.

2012-02-11T16:24:00.001-08:00

Sometimes I miss this...and now- it's wishful thinking for my students.

This about sums it up...

2012-02-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

She's a "Balla", Shot "Calla"

2012-02-06T12:23:00.000-08:00

"I'm ready to go play!"

Watching the Cougs with Daddy

She makes basketball look good!

4 Month Check-Up

2012-02-01T13:48:00.000-08:00

Today was Miss Clara-Boo's 4 Month Check up...

Here's what we found!

12.4 Pounds- 32%Percentile

24 3/4 Inches- 78%Percentile

16.5 Inches-Head- 81% Percentile

That's right- a tall, skinny, bobble-headed beautiful baby!

PS- we have a giggler now!

A Past Memory

2012-01-30T20:55:00.000-08:00

Ryan: Whenever I watch Pete's Dragon, it reminds me of elementary school and crayons.

(As you can see- we just recently watched Pete's Dragon! It's a Razzle Dazzle Day!)

Play Date with Kaleb

2012-01-25T16:44:00.000-08:00

Clara's and Kaleb's First Play Date!

(They kept holding hands, but I couldn't take the picture fast enough...too cute!)

He's got her back...they're good friends!

Two cutie-pies! These pictures might come in handy down the road!

Just sayin'....

Stylin'

2012-01-25T16:42:00.000-08:00

She is rockin' this outfit!

Bright-Eyes

2012-01-25T16:39:00.000-08:00

I love this Bright-Blue-Eyed-Bug!

3 1/2 Months Old.

Because...

2012-01-18T11:38:00.000-08:00

I love these blue eyes and chubby cheeks!

and...She's 3 months old now!

How we love our Clar-Bear!

Her Happy Place.

2012-01-18T11:36:00.000-08:00

Bottle.Blanket.Fire.Football.

Need I say more?

BuMbO

2012-01-18T11:32:00.000-08:00

Sitting in the Bumbo...What a Big Girl!

She's growing up too fast!

Belated Cravings

2012-01-13T10:30:00.001-08:00

Post-Pregnancy Craving= Key Lime Pie. Yum.

Happy Birthday!

2012-01-10T09:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday- to the best Daddy, Hubby, and Friend that we know! Love you lots!

I'm Dreaming Of...

2011-12-28T15:19:00.000-08:00

Leading the Music...

Football Field Goals...

Surrendering to Sleep...

Football Field Goals...Again...

Maybe a Manicure?

MeRrY ChRiStMaS

2011-12-28T15:09:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year!

For Aunt Suzanne

2011-12-28T15:04:00.000-08:00

Every Girl Needs Her Own "Red-Diva-Dress"

What's Up With Werther's?

2011-12-23T12:53:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to know- is it every elderly person's favorite candy? Since I started training at a different clinic, I now have a pocket full of Werther's Original Candies!

(I mean, it was my grandparent's favorite too...)

Do YoU BeLiEvE?

2011-12-20T17:42:00.000-08:00

Caution-Note to Reader: Text and Material May Not Be Suitable For Lil' Youngsters.

During this last week, I have been asked on several different occasions about when and how I "found out" about the jolly old man in the red suit. I recalled this memory:

As pathetic as this may sound...I think I was 11 or 12...maybe even 13 years of age when I discovered that Santa, was not Santa. I remember shopping with my parents and eagerly pointing out this cute, hairy, puppet that would walk around, bob his head ect...I wanted it desperately. Several weeks later, I was looking under my mom's sewing machine box to finish a pillow I had made (that's about the only thing I can sew...) and I saw the PUPPET! The one I wanted! The one I had asked for! I was so excited! I acted like I hadn't seen a thing...went on my merry way and waited for Christmas morning to arrive. It came- and as all of us girls rushed out to the living room to see what Santa had brought us, there it was. The Puppet. Sitting next to my stocking. Next to the candies and socks, that Santa brought. THAT SANTA BROUGHT! Wait a second...but I thought Mom had it under the sewing... but Santa brought...

So, there I was...a young, naive 12 year old- who really believed in Santa...I want to say that my heart broke a little at that very moment...

What have I learned since that that day? Many years later?

Believe. Believe and have faith in that which you can not see. Or who you can not see. He is there. Always there. Always listening and watching, seeing if we are naughty or nice.

He will be there Christmas morning, and every day after that...

Pretty Baby

2011-12-06T13:43:00.000-08:00

How I love my pretty baby...honest, to goodness I do.

Clara- 8 weeks.

8 Weeks

2011-12-06T13:36:00.000-08:00

Clara is 8 weeks old today! We can't believe how fast it has gone!

Clara is 10 lbs. and 23 inches long.

30%-weight. 70%-height. 80%-head

She is starting to smile and "talk" more. Loves music and cuddle time.

Still eats like a champ! We Love our Lil' Hiccup!

Clara's First Flight

2011-12-06T13:29:00.000-08:00

Clara's first flight with Mom to California.

She was a perfect angel on the airplane!

Fun with the lil' girlers!

I was so happy to attend Katie's and Emma's Dance recital! Brava!

Thanks Sorensen Family for a wonderful trip!

A Happy Camper.

2011-11-27T14:55:00.000-08:00

"Thank you for being a part of this special day! I am so happy and blessed to be with family and friends! I love you!"

Clara's Special Day

2011-11-27T14:46:00.000-08:00

Clara's Special Day.

The Happy Grandparents and Parents.

Four Generations.

Thank you for sharing this day with us.

We love you.

Clara's Blessing Day

2011-11-27T14:37:00.000-08:00

Clara's beautiful dress, made by Grandma Norby.

She was an angel while being blessed.

GIVE THANKS.

2011-11-23T21:30:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for-

An incredible husband- who is my best friend and love of my life.

Our sweet baby, Clara. Our world is brighter with you in it.

Family and Friends that are ever so supportive and loving.

Maestro- even though he's smelly, he still melts my heart when he sings with me.

Late night feedings with Clara- now that I am back to work, I cherish this quiet time to bond with her.

Employment for Ryan and I (especially me starting a new position that will allow me to be home 4 days of the week)- being self-sufficient is a blessing.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ, and the endless blessings that come from living it.

Ryan's truck that refuses to give up- small repairs are manageable.

Music- it expresses what words can not.

"Count your many blessings, name them one by one,

and it will surprise you what the Lord has done."

ReD oR bLuE?

2011-11-20T13:24:00.000-08:00

Sunday Best

2011-11-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

Clara is dolled up, dressed in her Sunday best. I love dressing this lil' girl up!

Don't you just want to kiss those adorable cheekers? She is getting so big!

OnE mOnTh

2011-11-11T08:47:00.000-08:00

Our lil' Clara is one month today! Here are a few updates on our sweet Hiccup!

Still has the hiccups. (Mama does too.)

Loves the sound of music.

Has smiled once...not due to gas!

Burps like her mama, toots like her daddy!

Is a cuddle bug...I love this!

Is 20th percentile for height and weight, 70th for her head!

Is keeping her mama's blue eyes...so far.

Eats like a champ- 4 ounces!

Starting to follow with her eyes-recognizes voices.

Has her daddy wrapped around her finger! Her LONG Piano fingers!

We Love Our Clara! She is such a blessing!

Our New Callings

2011-11-04T14:51:00.001-07:00

From the moment this angel was placed in our arms,

we knew our lives would be changed...for the better.

I am completely and eternally in love with this man and this sweet lil' girl.

I never knew how incredible this calling would be...I am humbled that God would give me this gift and the opportunity to be a mother.

"As a child of God, I've learned this truth...a Family is Forever."

A Few Favorites.

2011-11-04T14:37:00.000-07:00

We love this bundle of joy. Clara, you have stolen our hearts.

SpOoKy sKeLeToN

2011-11-01T10:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

CoMiC cLaRa

2011-11-01T10:26:00.000-07:00

"Don't disturb me...I need my beauty sleep."

"Let's Get Ducky"

"Perrrrrfectly Cute"

"Chillin' and Relaxin' "

BaTh TiMe

2011-11-01T10:21:00.000-07:00

Not her most favorite thing...but we are getting there.

Saturday = Game Day

2011-10-22T16:37:00.000-07:00

I predict....... BYU 52 - ISU 0

We Won!!!!!!

56 -3

Sleepy Time

Clara Cougar Cub!

2011-10-14T17:41:00.000-07:00

Rise and shout- the cougars are out!

Eternal Companion

2011-10-13T04:10:00.000-07:00

There are so many feelings and thoughts that I want to share, and so I will try not to overload the blog with posts...but this, I need to write down before I forget...

As you might have read in an earlier post- I had decided to opt for an epidural (which I know now, to be a heaven sent miracle med for sissy girls like me...). I could not feel a thing- and I kept giggling on how hard I would concentrate on moving just one toe, or my foot...nothing would happen. As my labor progressed and I needed more help to move, adjust, and prepare for birth, I had a realization and a better understanding of charity, companionship, and a positive attitude.

My Grandma Haslam had been paralyzed from the waist down for 17 years- and for 17 years, my grandfather took care of her-every day-neither of them complaining. Lifting, carrying, bathing, changing, caring for...very difficult tasks, especially for those in their elderly years- they exemplified the ways of what eternal companionship should be. Their love for one another, their dedication to one another, through good and bad-no matter what-, and attitude of gratitude for one another...it was a very tender moment for me.

So, as I laid there helpless in the bed, having my sweet companion care for me, and cheer me on, in one of the hardest and most difficult things I have ever faced- I knew that I could not have done this task without him. It was physically and emotionally impossible.

I was so thankful for the epidural, but even more for the tender mercy that I learned from it.

Our Work And Our Glory

2011-10-11T21:18:00.000-07:00

Clara Margaret
October 11, 2011

5:10 pm
6 lbs 11 ounces

19 inches

Kelli is doing great, baby is healthy, and I, Ryan was right there holding a leg watching every second. I even cut the cord. Might as well call me Dr. Norby.

One More...

2011-10-09T08:46:00.000-07:00

One more cm...that's the only thing I'm asking for. Just one more. 5 days of continuous contractions, 4 visits...one cm could change everything! Please just dilate! Pretty, please?

Forget-Me-Not

2011-09-25T08:14:00.000-07:00

I was deeply touched last night by the parable of the "Forget-Me-Not" Flower. I will never look at this sweet flower the same way again. Here are a few excerpts from that talk...

"As a child, when I would look at the little forget-me-nots, I sometimes felt a little like that flower—small and very insignificant. I wondered if I would be forgotten by my family or by my Heavenly Father.
Years later, I can look back on that young boy with tenderness and compassion. And I do know now I was never forgotten.
And I know something else. As an Apostle of our Master, Jesus Christ, I proclaim with all the certainty and conviction of my heart and soul—neither are you!
You are not forgotten.
Sisters, wherever you are, whatever the circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you, with an infinite love.

Sisters, there is something inspiring and sublime about the little forget-me-not flower. I hope it will be a symbol of the little things that make your lives joyful and sweet. Please never forget that you must be patient and compassionate with yourselves, that some sacrifices are better than others, that you need not wait for a golden ticket to be happy. Please never forget that the “why” of the gospel of Jesus Christ will inspire and uplift you. And never forget that your Heavenly Father knows, loves, and cherishes you.
Thank you for who you are. Thank you for the countless acts of love and service you offer up to so many. Thank you for all that you will yet do to bring the joy of the gospel of Jesus Christ to families, to the Church, to your communities, and to the nations of the world."

—President Dieter F. Uchtdorf

What I'm Looking Forward To...

2011-09-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

Every woman has their opinion on child-birth. I have mine. "One Epidural, Please."

I Get Weepy...

2011-08-26T05:15:00.000-07:00

I've realized that I have inherited a trait from my mother, which she in turn inherited from her father...I get weepy- a lot. (Grandpa said that his tear ducts were placed too close to his bladder...very fitting statement in this stage of my life...) I get weepy over a variety of things- whether it be sad, happy, frustrating, ect...only, I think when you are pregnant, it is manifested ten-fold.

I Get Weepy-

*When I indulge myself in wonderful food, like- Raspberry Dutch Babies, Red Robin Onion Rings, Italian Sodas, Calamari...

*In the middle of the night when my back and calves hurt so bad that I can't sleep.

*When I picture Ryan holding our little girl for the first time.

*When I can't breath because "Baby Hiccup's" foot is stuck in my rib- but then I get even more weepy because I know that she has been doing the Truffle Shuffle in my tummy for the last hour. "Dance, baby, Dance!"

*When I see miracles happen because of the faith, love and prayers of so many.

*Knowing that I am blessed beyond measure.

*Listening to my hubby practice his ABC's singing like Kermit the Frog...I know baby will love it.

*Thinking about how wonderful family and friends are...I love them all so much.

*When I don't get enough sleep and craziness has taken it's place.

*When I forget my own zip code while trying to gas the car up, all the while explaining to the attendant that I don't have a stolen debit card...I just need to put my pin in, because remembering 4 numbers instead of 5 is much easier on this pregnant brain of mine..."momnesia" rocks.

*When I realize how much Heavenly Father loves and trusts me enough to send one of his little ones for us to care for...

*Wondering if I can be a good mother and wife...and then I get weepy again knowing that with my sweetheart and the Lord by my side- I Can Do ANYTHING.

Kelli's Belly is Full of Jelly!

2011-08-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

Who's my friend? Lil' Baby Girl Norby at 32 Weeks...

Daddy-Daughter Bonding Time

2011-08-08T19:34:00.001-07:00

With baby getting bigger and more active- we like to take time to stare, poke at, and talk to my ever growing belly. (No pictures yet...I'm not that brave to post...) Last night- a conversation between Ryan-Baby-Belly-and myself went a little like this...

Ryan: "Baby. (Cupping his mouth and pressed up against my belly like a megaphone.) Baby. If you can hear me...give me a tap or kick.."

Ryan gets a few kicks and taps from baby...I'm giddy just watching this interaction.

Ryan: "Baby. If you love me...give me another kick or tap."

(My stomach starts to growl...)

Ryan looks at me and jests- "I think she just farted."

Me: "No honey, that was my stomach growling."

Ryan: "Nope, I think she farted...she's her daddy's girl."

I still giggle thinking about how much fun these two will have together!

I Am Satisfied.

2011-07-18T21:29:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I had date night this evening- Harry Potter 7.2

I am so glad that my questions were answered (even after the movie by my sister, Marisa).

I still can't get over the power of friendship in this movie. My faith was restored in Prof. Snape, just as I had hoped...along with Malfoy. I am most definitely going to finish reading this series.

Pregnancy Quirks- Part 2

2011-06-14T18:25:00.000-07:00

I had a friend tell me that the more kids you have-the less brain cells you keep, therefore, causing "mom-nesia"...yes, that's right. You start to forget everything- even how to talk!

Example 1: Totally forgetting your own phone number.

Example 2: Saying "cartment pomplex" over and over...but really trying to say,

"apartment complex"

Update on baby "Hiccups"- Either she is a ninja warrior or she loves kickin' it in mama's belly!

(I love feeling her move- and...even hiccup! Like mother like daughter!)

Best feel good moment today- a co-worker asked if I had been losing weight! (Not in the belly of course) but honey- that comment would make any 22 week pregnant woman feel good!

Last but not least...just because I went to the bathroom 10 minutes ago does not mean that I won't have to go again...like- NOW!

PS- I love me some good ol' air conditioning...

HaPpY 3 YeArS, PaRtNeR.

2011-06-07T10:41:00.000-07:00

Happily married for 3 years! I love this Cowboy of mine!

And I know our lil' Buck-A-Roo will too!

NickNames-

2011-06-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

I mentioned in an earlier post that I am having issues with hiccups. Well, after 2 years of working at the hospital, the director of our lab finally spoke to me yesterday while passing each other in the hall-

"Well hello, Hiccups- how are you liking the new lab set-up?"

(Did he actually call me Hiccups?) "It's an adjustment, but we will get used to it..."

"So- do you always have hiccups or is this a new thing?"

"Oh, it's new- just a perk of being preggo I guess..."

So- my nicknames at work have gone from KelKel, Norby, Norbs, to- well, you guessed it- HICCUPS.

The Big Question?

2011-05-23T17:49:00.001-07:00

Does BYU come in pink and white decor for a baby's room?

A Wonderful Week.

2011-05-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

Experiencing Disney World- for the first time. Kennedy Space Center. Sea World. Florida Sun- and Humidity. Tuckered out Tikes. :)

fLoRiDa FaMiLy FuN!

2011-05-22T10:56:00.000-07:00

Thank you to my wonderful parents and family for the fantastic Florida get-a-way reunion! Love you so much!

Pregnancy Quirks- Part 1

2011-05-15T12:21:00.001-07:00

With this lil' "joey" growing like crazy...I am experiencing "hiccups" of my own.

Random, frequent, non-stop, through-out the day hiccups have caused many to help me try to cure my problem.

Hold your breath.

Eat a spoon full of peanut butter.

Think of bananas.

Have someone scare you.

Drink a glass of water as fast as possible.

The list goes on and on...

So- what are some of your cures for hiccups?

PS- I can't wait to feel the hiccups of the baby...it could be quite the duet!

A Letter From Mom.

2011-05-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

Last night- when we returned home from Boise, I came upon a letter that my mother sent this week...I was deeply touched and wish to share the last paragraph with you.

"My most fulfilling job has been a wife and a mother- I think you need to constantly be a magician to pull tricks out of your hat to help each child feel loved, to help them communicate with you as well as others, to help them find their strengths and talents, and to feel successful in all of their endeavors. This job has been the most stressful, joyful, fascinating, challenging and rewarding of any I have ever had..."

I can't thank my mother for all that she has taught me, sacrificed for me, and done to make me feel so loved. I hope that I can be the mother that she has taught me to be.

Happy Mother's Day to Our beautiful mothers- Gwen and Paula. We love you.

Defy Gravity.

2011-05-08T08:29:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I were finally able to celebrate our "Valentine's Gift" this weekend- a matinee showing of Wicked in Boise. We met up with my parents and saw this spectacular show! I couldn't contain myself- but I did promise Ryan that I wouldn't break out into song with the cast! Bravo! It was wonderful!

Man of the Year

2011-05-04T15:42:00.001-07:00

This hunk-a-licious guy deserves the "Man of the Year" award. It has not been easy, for sure, for him to live with a sick, pregnant wife...but he does everything out of love and patience. He listens to me complain, cry, giggle, waits for the bathroom- because I am having to "go" every 15 minutes...he still thinks I am beautiful- even when I am kneeling over the much worshipped toilet. He makes multiple runs to the store for anything that will help me feel better. I think he is already in the running for the Best Dad of the Year...(Hang in there honey-5 months left...)

I love you, Ry.

cRaViNgS.

2011-04-30T12:57:00.000-07:00

What am I craving lately? For some odd reason- all I want is a good ol' tin-foil hobo dinner.

Greens and Fruits hit the spot more than ever...I love strawberries and oranges and enjoy salads or sandwiches for every meal.

I can't stand the smell and sometimes the taste of meat-

I will only take a bite or two if I have to.

Ironically enough- I don't like sweets right now. Well, they are just too...sweet.

We'll see if anything changes in the next few months.

Ice cream and pickles?

Harry Potter Follow-Up

2011-04-26T16:54:00.001-07:00

Ok. I am hooked. And, I cried, multiple times in movies 4-7, part 1. I don't blame this on pregnancy- I am sure that I would have cried anyway.

So- forgive me, if I butcher the spelling of names- but I just want to share what I am feeling and hoping for the end- 7 part 2. (Mind you- I have not read the books.)

I am secretly hoping that Professor Dumbledor makes a come-back, just like Gandolf in LOTR.

I have faith that Malfoy will change and come back to the good side.

I am so, so, so- deeply saddened by Professor Snape...enough said. I still can't figure him out.

I adore Dobby, the elf... And sobbed out-loud when he died.

Could Harry ask for better friends- they are so faithful.

I just want Harry to kick Voldemort's butt.

Conclusion...I think I know what books I will be reading this summer.

PS- I didn't know Edward from Twilight was such a hunk in Harry's Land...who knew?

HaRrY PoTtEr

2011-04-21T10:03:00.000-07:00

I've never really been in to Harry Potter...I was a Lord of the Rings fan. But, through the years, I have seen bits and pieces of some of the movies- never really seeing them all. I think I could like them- even grow to love them. This morning, I woke up to Ryan handing me the Harry Potter years 1-7 DVD set- telling me, relax, go watch, and enjoy. After battling this cold and flu- I think I will. Thanks RyGuy. I love you.

Harry Potter- ready or not, here I come!

Cool

2011-04-06T17:53:00.000-07:00

She's Got A Mean Left Hook.

2011-03-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

I love most things about my job. I occasionally share my fun events of the work day...the good, the bad, and the ugly. Yesterday, I went to draw an elderly woman, around 70 years old. She was obviously having a rough day...and when she finally realized what I was doing, after I explained several times, she brought her fist back and popped me right on the side of my face! Then of course, the cursing and yelling came...I quickly grabbed my things and left the room. Not quite the successful draw, but in regards to my hormones- I didn't cry...

well, at least not in front of her.

All I have to say- she sure introduced the element of surprise with her left hook...

I would have hated to see her nasty upper cut.

Coming in October 2011

2011-03-14T17:18:00.000-07:00

Will the Norby genes prevail and will a boy arrive, or will the Haslam girls dominate once again? Wait and see for this new arrival, coming in October 2011.

Craw Fish!

2011-02-24T17:21:00.000-08:00

Ryan's brother Darren and his sweet family flew into Utah last night from good ol' New Orleans. On their way to fly out- Darren picked up fresh craw fish, crab, and shrimp-packaged it up, and caught their flight. We met them at his in-laws' home and cooked up the yummy seafood goodness! Wow- that southern seasoning had a kick- it was Boy Howdy Amazing Good! Thanks Darren and Amy for sharing this Cretaceous Treat!

A Yummy Snack.

2011-02-24T17:16:00.000-08:00

I love these granola bars. I highly recommend them.

JIMMER

2011-02-19T13:53:00.001-08:00

I think it's safe to say that we love Jimmer-maybe my hubby more than me...

And I can't wait for March Madness!

Bring on the bracket!

Kellina

2011-02-13T22:25:00.000-08:00

Meaning: Its source is Ceallach, and Irish Gaelic name meaning "strife, war"

Origin: "Ceallach"

Narrative: Alternate interpretations of Ceallach range from "bellicose" to "church- goer." The Scottish place name kelly, possibly derived from Pictish expression referring to the holly tree, is another possible influence.

The Kelly Song

2011-02-13T22:21:00.000-08:00

Kellina, it is I who loves you!!!

2011-02-13T22:00:00.000-08:00

P.S. I Love You.

2011-02-13T16:39:00.000-08:00

Ryan. I love you. Not just because you are just so gosh darn cute, and super strong and brilliant-but because you are you. Really- you always ask? Really. Happy Valentines Day.

Love, Kelli

Life Is...

2011-02-07T13:22:00.000-08:00

Life is too short to...
Take it for granted.
Hold a Grudge.
Miss out on Opportunities.
Not Love Someone or Something.

Life is about...
Taking chances.
Falling in Love.
Making Friendships.
Forgiving Others.
Making Goals-and Achieving Them.
Loving an enemy.
Serving Others.
Laughing at the funny parts, and learning from the rest!

Live your life with no regret. It is never too late to make things right. Live your life and love it.

SwEeT tReAtS.

2011-01-30T10:09:00.000-08:00

These lil' cake bites could change your life...and your waistline. They are to Die for!

Thanks Marisa for the Birthday treats!

He's Part of the Family.

2011-01-26T09:06:00.000-08:00

It made me feel so good when my lil' niece Kate asked her mom,

"Is cousin Maestro going to come to Florida with Uncle Wyan and Aunt Kelli?"

That's right my furry lil' puppy...you are a part of the family!

Vocal Pedagogy At It's Finest.

2011-01-26T08:59:00.000-08:00

My sister Marisa was telling me that her son, Jon, was singing the famous, "If I were the King of the Forest" from The Wizard of Oz, but couldn't quite get the fast vibrato at the end. He informed her, "That's because I don't have a lot of fat on my throat..." Marisa then asked, "Do you want to call and tell Aunt Kelli that?" He instantly replied, "No, that's ok."

After all my training and pedagogy classes...I think his explanation is the most logically, and well, entertaining! Thanks Jon!

a SoNg To SiNg.

2011-01-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

To all those who help this "birdie" fly and sing...thank you.

Guess Who's Having A Birthday?

2011-01-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow- January 10th- my Lil' Love Bug is having his 26th Birthday!

Ryan- You are the Man- SuperMan too. Happy Birthday!

New Years in Idaho

2011-01-05T13:05:00.000-08:00

With my parents recent move to Challis, Idaho, we decided to make a trip up there to see them at New Years.

Small town-big history.

A view of Thompson Creek Mine, where my dad is now the HR manager.

We were lucky enough to get a tour of the mine and open pit, thanks to Mike!

We had a great time with the Haslams! Lots of games, good food, movies, and wonderful conversation. Hope everyone had a fabulous 2010, and a great New Year's Eve!

Secret Revealed.

2010-12-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

While a friend and I were at a retirement home yesterday evening to perform Christmas songs- an elderly gentleman stopped us and asked a very interesting question:

"Do you ladies wear heels?"

To which we replied:

"Yes, on most occasions..."

"Well, my wife wore heels all of her life, and even at the age of 80, she had the legs of a young lady."

There you have it girls- the secret to having good legs has been revealed. If you want the nice legs of a young lady when you're 80...WEAR HEELS.

After this conversation, I couldn't help but picture this... Thank you "FRAGILE" ITALIAN LEG LAMP MAKER...we aspire to have legs like this!

SwEeT SiNgInG iN tHe ChOiR

2010-12-19T21:00:00.000-08:00

A very sweet lady in my ward offered me two tickets to Saturday night's Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance with David Archuleta. What a wonderful night it was- beautiful music, dancing and readings- spending time with my wonderful mother-in-law, fantastic, yummy food! I enjoyed every moment! Bravo! Merry Christmas!

SaY wHaT?

2010-12-09T20:22:00.000-08:00

Best quote of the day from Work:

From a doctor to a patient (who just received some laxatives for a surgery later on that day...)

"Well- have a great time with those bowel movements today...see you around lunch time."

Should those 2 statements really go together in a run-on sentence?

Obviously this doctor has never done the prep work for a colonoscopy...Great time? Yeah right.

Ah Ha! Moment at Work-

I am kind of glad that I don't have the gift of tongues or interpretation...I can pretty much tell

when a patient is swearing at me in Spanish, Slavic, Sign Language...

I just have to remember that I am the one with the needle.

Early Resolution.

2010-12-02T09:37:00.000-08:00

I have decided to do my New Year's resolution a little early this year.

Eat Healthier-Exercise-Lose Weight.

I have only been at this for 5 days- but I am feeling pretty good about my decision-

Day 1- Pumped and motivated- healthier choices, counting calories, watching portions, pilates.

Day 2- Really missing my sodas, sore from 45 min. pilates.

Day 3- Dying for sugar! I want my chocolate and diet coke!

Day 4- Not as sore- my craving for sweets subsiding...

Day 5- Enjoying my daily pilates (it's calming...) and I am not craving junk food as much!

Wish me luck!

A special thanks to my parents who really went above and beyond in changing their lifestyle with eating healthier and exercise! You inspire me!

ThAnKfUl.

2010-11-25T10:23:00.000-08:00

While driving to my dear in-laws this morning, I reflected upon the last year- and all of the bLeSsInGs that I have received.

I am thankful for the power of FaMiLy. There is so much strength received within the bonds and love of a family. There is nothing greater.

I am thankful for my BeSt FrIeNd, CoMpAnIoN, HuSbAnD, and SwEeThEaRt...RyAn. He is my everything and I appreciate all that he does to make me feel beautiful and successful.

I am most ever grateful for the GoSpEl...the GoOd NeWs of Jesus Christ that helps anchor my life and give direction towards something greater.

I am thankful for MuSiC. For the way that it inspires, creates emotions, and heals the heart and soul.

I am thankful for the opportunity to WoRk- to provide for my family and become self reliant.

I am thankful for hEaLtH- and for the learned people who help solve problems to make a better way of life for others.

There is so much to be thankful for. Have a wonderful ThAnKsGiViNg.

Just a Bunch of Turkeys!

2010-11-20T16:51:00.001-08:00

I can't wait- all of these lil' gobblers will be here next Thursday for Thanksgiving!

I finally decided to be crafty and make place setting decorations for Thanksgiving!

Double Date Delight!

2010-11-20T16:44:00.001-08:00

We enjoyed our Friday night at the Jazz vs. Spurs NBA game

with Ryan's cousin Brody with his cute date- Lexi!

I wouldn't call these "nose-bleed" seats-more like...

sinus congestion.

I can still make this cutie blush!
Thanks for the great night out on the town!

Just A Lil' Scratch.

2010-11-20T16:32:00.000-08:00

When I came out from work- I found this beauty. Just a lil' scratch. No note. No one around. When security and the driver of the other vehicle finally showed up- we were able to work things out...after she explained that she never even noticed that she swiped my car. (The damage is worse on hers...) I waited for her to blame it on the "one-armed-man".

Positive note- Man, my parking job that morning was superb!

Maestro The Lion

2010-11-09T15:50:00.000-08:00

For those of you who voted to have Maestro be a lion for Halloween- you win!!

I LoVe FaLL.

2010-10-20T12:44:00.000-07:00

I love fall. I love the colors of the changing leaves. I love the smells. I love the chill in the air- still hanging on to summer, but summons winter to come. I love the harvest. I love the foods and tastes of the season. I love autumn. Please stay as long as you want.

JuSt A FeW MoRe.

2010-10-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

When we first saw this house- we had to move in because the bathroom was PINK and had DOUBLE SINKS! This was the 4 Haslam Girls' dream bathroom! Sunday mornings were better than ever! Now- it looks even more fantastic with all of the stone and tile work that Ryan did, mom and dad adding a fresh coat of "colored" paint!

"Stop Here"? I'm not quite sure if Sally or Marisa put this on the sheet rock in the garage-

but I am pretty sure that it had to do with something lined up with that dot and the Buick's hood ornament...

I could be wrong. But, I still get a chuckle out of it every time I see it.

HoMe SwEeT hOmE.

2010-10-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

For almost 20 years- this is the place that I called "home".

2315- This is what I will remember about you.

Thank you for keeping us safe, warm,

and for bringing family and friends together within your walls.

When we first put in our yard, we raked rocks, or "Rocked Rakes" for what seemed like days. After bringing up all of this river rock- we hauled it out behind our house-
just to be told days later to bring it back to put under the eaves of the house.
Was this cruel and unusual punishment? Mom? We thought so.
But now- we learned the value of hard work and making a yard beautiful.

This window well may just look like your good ol' regular run-of-the mill window well, but to us- you could find stray cats, baby birds, little mice, or late at night, a fallen Kyla trying to help put in a swamp cooler.

I loved our backyard. The hours that we spent talking and swinging on the porch, playing catch
(wearing down the grass from pitching...) Paiting and staining the fence. Learning to plant a garden. But what I loved most- This Globe Willow Tree. When first planted, it did not take and died- so we cut it down just to the stump. We later discovered that little stems and branches started to form, later turning into this beautiful tree.
So much strength and beauty can come from adversity.

Why Can't We Be Friends?

2010-09-26T09:47:00.000-07:00

Who wouldn't want to be friends with this cute pup?

Well, these ducks from our apartment complex don't.

Maestro loves people, new animals...he wants to be friends with everyone! With these ducks, he will wag his tail and come up to them, and they will go out of their way to bully him...

(it even sounds like they are laughing at him!)

Sunday Dinners

2010-09-18T16:04:00.000-07:00

During our visit with the Sorensens, we were able to have Sunday dinner with them. This brought back many memories with my own family, as each one of us got to share what we learned at church that day...

This particular Sunday, Emma (8) shared that she had the "Tithing" lesson for the 3rd time! She just couldn't understand why we needed to repeat the lesson over and over... just pay 10 percent...how hard is that!?

Then the conversation went like this...

Kate, who is 4 years old: So- Aunt Kelli...do you talk to God?

Me: Why, yes- I do. Do you talk to God, Kate?

Kate: Yup, (chomp, chomp on a grape), and He talks to me too.

Me: Really? What does He say to you?

Kate: Oh, just stuff...like, how to love people.

Me: That's pretty awesome, Kate. Prayer is a special way we can talk to Heavenly Father.

Kate: I know. That's why I do it.

I never realized how incredible Sunday dinners were- until I got to see it through a little one's eyes.

What will your Sunday dinners bring to the table?

WiCkEd FuN!

2010-09-09T14:32:00.000-07:00

While you were away...we had some wicked fun!

Fun food and games at John's Incredible Pizza-

much better than Chucky Cheeses!

Making Grandma Norby's Famous M&M Cookies!

Haslam Girls- Do you remember this? Setting up our Barbie Townhome.

3 Stages of Sarah- Crying herself to sleep. Thinking about letting Kelli hold her. All Smiles!

Thanks so much for the wonderful time! We love you, Sorensen Family!

WiCkEd SuRpRiSe.

2010-09-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

I think these were the results we were looking for. Total SHOCK.

A WiCkEd SeCrEt.

2010-09-03T21:09:00.001-07:00

Operation "Wicked" commenced yesterday- bringing Ryan and I out to surprise my sister in California. The Plan- (which was flawlessly schemed by my brother in law Paul) Make a surprise visit to my sister, watch the kids for "date night", all the while- Paul packed Marisa's bags and headed up to San Francisco to see Wicked for her birthday. Keeping this a secret for 2 months was a killer- especially for me, a Haslam girl...but I am so glad that we did it! More details and pictures of our now, not-so-secret operation to come!

Norby's look how cool we are!!

2010-08-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

http://norbyco.com/contact.html
Norby Company 3805 108th AVe. N.E. Bellevue, Washington 98004-7697

http://www.norbysonline.com/

245 hwy 60 east Lake Wales, Flordia 33853
http://norbysgreatsteaks.com/

Norby is a robot from a series of science fiction books for kids. First book was 1983 Norby, the Mixed up Robot.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norby

Thank you, Lake Powell.

2010-08-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Kehl Family and Good Ol' Lake Powell

for a much needed vacation, and a little tan too.

Good Family. Good Food. Good Sleep. Good Urgent Care*. Good Water.

GOOD TIMES.

*A little trip to the Page, AZ Urgent Care never hurt anyone...just a good ol' sinus infection.

What I Love About Road Trips...

2010-08-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

Ryan and I have made a few road trips this summer- and I absolutely love them! To give a little background why I love them so much- before I ever got married, I knew that I would have to make at least one road trip with the guy I was dating to make sure I could put up with him, and him with me- (I tend to be a bear when I get really hungry, or crazy silly when I am tired...) Needless to say- Ryan passed- with flying colors! Maybe I passed too? :)

What I love About Road Trips-

Queen is always on our play list.

Ryan always gets an ice cream on at least one leg of our trip...I get one too, of course!

It's about the only time I really get to hear Ryan sing!

We can talk about BYU football, for hours on end.

I'm not the only one who has to make a few potty stops now-

Ryan lets me drive...or take a nap.

Getting 30 mpg!

Seeing friends and family!

Spending time together. Quality time. In a little car. Priceless.

Cheers to you Ryan- to many more fun and exciting road trips! Love you!

Grateful for Grandma

2010-08-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Ryan's Grandma Skinner returned to her heavenly home. I feel so blessed to have been able to get to know her more this last year and to feel of her love and passion for her family and the gospel. She will be missed.
Things that I have learned about Grandma-
She was a wonderful mother and grandmother. Great cook! Made beautiful afghans- quite the seamstress. Loved the "Gift of Gab"! She loved, loved, loved her family and friends...especially her grandkids.

We Love You Grandma Skinner- Thank you for all that you have done.

God Be With You Til We Meet Again.

4th of July Weekend 2010

2010-07-05T18:40:00.000-07:00

Great. Marvelous. Camping.

The Three Amigos

2010-07-05T18:39:00.000-07:00

These Guys Rock. Thanks Erick and Lynlee and Steve for a great weekend!

Food Glorious Food

2010-07-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

Ryan made some fabulous crepes for our first night at the cabin...umm, umm, good!

*I'm not afraid to admit that Ryan is a better cook than me...by far. Hands Down.