The Bama Belle & Her Beau

Chinese New Year 2012

2012-01-28T19:35:00.000-08:00

My friend Jennifer owns a Chinese restaurant named the Dragon Isle. One of our newest yearly traditions is to go for Chinese New Year.

For Chinese New Year's two dragons come to the restaurant, drums are played and the dragon dances around the tables. If you feed the dragon money you will be granted good luck for that year (and I must admit it has worked for us)!

This year Rob was able to go with us since last year he was in New Jersey...

Also Bran, Dave and Mr. Coopster...

Carole and our sweet friend Diane came as Carole's date (Alma came with us last year)...

As well as Sarah, Emerson and Dawson (we missed Chris, but he was at work).....

And we brought first timers Heidi and baby Logan (his daddy was at work too)....

As well as Jared and a very pregnant Cassidy (who is due to have baby Graham any time now).

But unfortunately as soon as the dragon showed his not so cute face Cooper decided to do the same thing he did last year....

Scream to the point that he had to be taken out of the restaurant!!!! Hopefully Cooper will have better LUCK next year!!!

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR

Vineyard Vinyl is the Best!!!

2012-01-09T10:21:00.000-08:00

Brandy has an adorable friend, Kristy, that has her own vinyl business. So when we moved into our new home I enlisted her help in decorating Cooper and Graham's bedroom and also the playhouse we had built for them in our family room. I think they turned out so cute that I had to share them on my blog!!

Since we lived in Hawaii (Brandy was born in Honolulu and IS Hawaiian you know) we decided to decorate the grand kid bedroom in a Hawaiian theme.

Kristy made a palm tree for us.....

...and surf boards with every ones name on it.

She did not make the Haleiwa sign (in case you have not been to Oahu, Haleiwa is home to the best shave ice on the Island - minus the kidney beans of course). We bought the sign on our last trip!

I found this pillow on line and it was a must have to complete the room - don't you agree??

For the playhouse we decided to go with a fire station theme since we have (or will have shortly) two little firemen running around our house. I think Kristy did an AMAZING job designing this!!!!

If you are interested in having her help design anything for you check out her etsy site, Vineyard Vinyl. Her prices are reasonable and she does a great job, as you can tell!!!!

Happy 2012!!!!!!!!!

2012-01-01T14:32:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year's!! Well as you can tell I have not been the best at blogging this past year (in my defense we have had a VERY busy year) so I thought I would give you a recap of what has happen with us during 2011.

In February we celebrated Cooper's 1st birthday! He is definitely the light of his TamTam and Poppa's world.

Cooper having his birthday cupcake

In March we went to Disney World with Jared and Cassidy. Unfortunately I did not take any pictures so I have none to share with you. It was Cassidy's first time so we had a blast! Also in March I went with Rob to San Diego - him for business and me a little sunshine!

In May we put our home on the market and it sold after FIVE short days of being listed and we closed the loan 14 days after we listed it. Fortunately the couple who bought it were kind enough to let us rent it back from them for the month of June while we decided exactly where we were going to move.

We lived here for 24 years

The first of May (a day after we put our house up for sale) Rob, my friend Myrna and I went to Alabama to surprise my Mom for Mother's Day. Myrna and I spent the week in Alabama but Rob was only able to spend a few days before flying back to Utah (and phoning me in Alabama to tell me we had sold our house).

Rob and Mother - we sure miss all the beautiful trees and "green" they have in Alabama

Me and my brother

Myrna with Amy, Hollis and Sarah Todd standing in my Mom's front yard

The end of May we went to Hawaii with our wonderful little family to celebrate Jared's completion of his Master's Degree and mine and Rob's 32 wedding anniversary. We rented a condo on Waikiki and had a blast showing Cassidy around our ole stoppin' grounds. Unfortunately Cooper was not a fan of the ocean or the pool - that is definitely something we have to work on with him for our next trip to the Islands!!

Standing in front of the King Kamehamehai statue in Honolulu (thanks Mel for taking this picture)

The kids in front of Chinaman's Hat

In June my adorable niece Amy, her husband, Todd and three kids came to visit us. Amy had been once before but her husband and kids had not so we delighted in showing them our beautiful state and the surrounding areas. In one week we went to Yellowstone, Jackson Hole, Snowbird, the Salt Flats, Park City, the Copper Mine, Temple Square - well to say the least it was a busy, fun week for us and it was also a wonderful distraction for me to keep my mind off our upcoming move!

In Yellowstone Park

Standing in front of the Salt Lake Temple

After we took my niece and her fam to the airport we came home and loaded up the moving vans and moved in with Brandy, Dave and Cooper for the next four months while we built a new home in South Jordan, Utah. South Jordan is an up and coming area in the Salt Lake Valley, close to both our kids (we actually "like" our kids and love being close to them).

Also in June, at Father's Day dinner, Jared and Cassidy announced that we were going to have another "light" come into our home! They are expecting a little boy the first of February. We are so excited for baby Graham to join our family and to have another little one to spoil (isn't that what grandparents are suppose to do???).

Cassidy 8 months pregnant

In July I went with Rob to Mt. Laurel, New Jersey which is the headquarters for his company. It was the most boring week of my life since there is not much to do in Mt. Laurel or the surrounding area. I have assured Rob that I will not be going back with him again ( I even told his boss in New Jersey not to plan on us EVER moving back there, even though George really thinks I need to give it another try)!

In September Rob and I went to Phoenix for a few days and stayed at the Biltmore (it is a beautiful resort). Once again business for him and "sun" for me. It was a great trip!

Arizona has the most beautiful sun sets

In October we went to Ft. Lauderdale (yes, business/sun) but unfortunately there was NO sun for me! It rained the entire time we were there. We had a room on the beach and I got to lay on the bed and watch the rain pound the sand for four "glorious" days.

The first of November we moved into our new home. I have decided that moving is hard work and I don't think I will be doing it again for a very, very long time! I don't know what I would have done without Brandy because she has pretty much organized our entire house (when Rob can't find something I always suggest he call Bran). She has missed her calling in life - she really should be a professional organizer because she is really good at it!

Our new home

The week before Thanksgiving my Utah "adopted" Dad past away. He had experienced some health issues and memory loss for the past few years but his death still was very sudden. I had the honor of being with him as he left this earth. Rob was asked to conduct and speak at his funeral, I spoke at the funeral and Jared and Dave were pallbearers. It was a hard week emotionally.

Celebrating Alma's birthday at his favorite restaurant, HoHo's

I was ready to boycott Christmas this year and be a Scrooge and not put up any decorations, but once again my little chicklets came to the rescue and made our home bright and festive for the holidays. I know I have said it many time, and you will hear it many times in the future, but Rob and I were blessed with totally amazing kids (that includes Dave and Cassidy) that help us so much.

Christmas morning - as you can tell Santa spoiled us!

Graham even had his own stocking and Santa left him gifts as well (can you imagine what it will be like next year when he is actually here)!

Cooper did not know which toy to go to first....

...but I think he really liked the drum set!

So as you can tell 2011 was a busy year for us but it was also an exciting year. I am so blessed to have the most amazing husband in the world and the most supportive kids on the planet. And I never realized that being a TamTam could be as much fun as it has been. I am grateful that Rob, Jared and Dave all have great jobs, that we have had no major health problems, that we are blessed with supportive friends and family and most of all I am grateful for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Happy 2012 to each and every one of you that may read this!!!!

Labor Day with the Olsen's

2011-09-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well I really getting ahead of myself - here I am blogging about Labor Day and I haven't even blogged about Memorial Day (and we had a pretty exciting Memorial Day if you ask me, but that to come later). For the past several years we have started the summer off by renting a condo and going with the fam to Park City. Well this past Memorial Day we had "other" places to be so we decided to end the summer by going to Park City for the Labor Day Weekend. Usually the boys take off and go golfing and play tennis but we decided that a switch-a-roo was in order this year. So the girls got up early on Saturday morning and headed to Swiss Days in Midway while the boys stayed behind and took care of the Coopster. In addition to Swiss Days, we went to the outlet malls, strolled Main Street, ate at some wonderful restaurants, had some delicious home cooked meals prepared by Bran, watched movies and just relaxed! It was a delightful Labor Day Weekend!!!

We reminisced about when we came last year- Cooper was only three months old and just laid there! This year you could not let him out of your sight!

Of course TamTam and Poppa thought Cooper needed a special treat for this mountain resort (oh how we love spoiling our little boy) and what better than his own ATV (or as the southerners say - mule)....

...which he enjoyed driving on the slick wooden floors of the condo.

On our trip to Park City next year we will have a new little one around to entertain us. Look how he/she is growing in his/her beautiful Mom's belly. On a side note Rob and I were talking and I mentioned how nice it would be if Cass and Jared had a little boy since we have so many "boy" toys. My sweet husband informed me he had no problem buying little girl toys and that he would be thrilled if he had a little granddaughter to spoil too!

A New Chapter in the Life of Rob and Tammy

2011-09-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

For the past few years Rob and I have discussed moving but the time just never seemed right. This past spring the subject came up again and for the first time we both felt that it might finally be the right time to sale our home of 24 years. We put our house up for sale on Thursday, May 5th and then I left for Alabama two days later. On Tuesday, May 10th Rob called me from Utah to say that we had a full price offer on our home. Yes FIVE days after our home went up for sale it sold! EIGHTEEN days after we put our home up for sale we closed the deal. Fortunately the people who bought it were kind enough to let us rent the house back from them until July 2nd. And even kinder were our wonderful daughter and son-in-law who have allowed us to stay with them while our new home is being build in South Jordan, Utah. We will miss our old home and wonderful neighbors but with how quickly our home sold we KNOW that we were suppose to move. We are excited to see where this new chapter in our life will take us!
Right before they started digging.

Our home is currently ready for Sheetrock and the anticipated move in date is the middle of October. I will try and get some pictures to post of what it looks like now! By the way I have decided that packing up a home that you have lived in for many, many, many years is absolutely NO fun. There is no way we could have done it if it had not been for our kids coming over everyday for weeks helping us and the help of our wonderful neighbors and friends. We are so blessed to have such amazing people in our life.

A Mother's Day Surprise

2011-09-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

It has been 32 years since I have spent Mother's Day with my 81 year old Mom so this past Mother's Day I decided that I wanted to fly down and surprise her. I persuaded my dear friend Myrna to participate in this little covert operation with me. Rob was in New Jersey the week prior to Mother's Day so the plan was for him to meet us at the airport in Montgomery on Saturday, the day before Mother's Day and we would drive down and show up on her doorsteps! And fortunately everything went according to plan (thanks to the help of my sister).

Rob was only able to stay for a few days, but Myrna and I spent the entire week entertaining (or maybe I should say being entertained by) my Mom.

We took her to get a pedicure. Of course she had to tell Junior exactly what to do!

My Aunt Wonnie and Uncle Jimmy came up and spent Mother's Day with us and then we went to Dothan one day and spent the day with them.

We went and watched Sarah Todd, Hollis and their friend Daisy play ball. It was sooo hot!

We visited with my brother Sherrill....

....and then my brother Cyril and his wife Linda took us out for a delicious dinner.

My sister also took a day off work and we went to lunch and did some shopping but for some reason I did not take a picture that day! It was a fun trip and I am grateful that I got to spent some time with my Mom and my amazing siblings! I sure miss living close to them.

Royal Wedding

2011-08-11T17:43:00.000-07:00

Okay friends, this might be a little early but it's time to mark your calendars. Consider this your Save the Date for the loveliest, most royal wedding ever!

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Selin

invite you the to royal wedding

of their daughter

Emerson

Cooper

son of

Mr. and Mrs. David Jesperson

on June 30, 2035

Cooper and Emerson prepared for their big day while watching the Royal Wedding with a few of their friends. Ahh, young love!

If you know me you should know that I loooooove to have parties and I look for any reason to have a get together with my family and friends! So when the Royal Wedding rolled around this past spring I decided what better occasion to pull out the hats and have a little tea (in my case hot chocolate) party and to start preparing for the 2035 wedding (nothing like a pre-arranged marriage)!!!!!

The grandmother and aunt of the groom

The Mom and TamTam of the future groom

The groom-to-be and his mom.

Our future in-laws.

The whole gang.

My son, the Professional!

2011-07-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a while since I last blogged but that is due to some major "life" changes we have made (which I will blog about later - but I have to go in chronological order).

Rob and I have always commented on what great kids we have and they just continue to amaze us with their accomplishments. So with that being said I want to update you on what is happening in the life of our favorite son!!

* He completed his MBA degree

* He received a promotion at work - he is the HR manager for the entire company

* He took and passed the Professional and Human Resources Exam (equivalent to a CPA for accountants)

* He was elected as the Secretary and Web Master for the Society for Human Resource Management/Salt Lake Chapter (SHRM)

* He was hired as a teacher for DeVry University

* And one of the most exciting...for me that is....he is a Dad-To-Be!!!!

The above accomplishments are not bad for a 26 year old!!! We are so proud of Jared and his accomplishments and Cassidy for the support she has given him.

My "sweet" little Coop!!

2011-04-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

Cooper had a new experience....his very first sucker compliments of Auntie Sarah.

And of course he loved it (you can tell he is eating it like a pro)!!!

But I made sure his Mom wiped him over really well before he was allowed in my car!!

Hubba Hubba

2011-04-04T18:45:00.000-07:00

Twice a year our church has a men's only meeting on Saturday night for all boys 12 and older. It is a special time for my boys to attend the meeting and then go out to dinner without the girls while we girls go to dinner and play. This year Brandy, Cooper, Sarah, Emerson, Dawson and I went to dinner and then to the mall shopping. Brandy and I were shopping for a "hot" swimsuit in preparation for our trip to Hawaii in May. We would try on the swimsuits and then model them for Sarah and the kids. Emerson and Dawson were getting tired so Sarah decided to leave early so she could get them home and to bed. On the way to the car Dawson said to Sarah, "Cooper's Mom is hubba hubba." Sarah said, "So you think Brandy is hubba hubba"? He said, "Not Brandy, TAMTAM is hubba hubba." Sarah explained to Dawson that I was Cooper's grandma not his mom. And he responded, "She's NOT a grandma!!!!!!!!!" Well to say the least this little four year old has won my heart for life!!!!

Happy Birthday Jared

2011-03-08T15:37:00.000-08:00

We can't believe our heads

(we're starting to see green)

Jared's turning 26

so join us in the fun!!

When Jared saw Cooper's cute birthday invitations he decided he could not be outdone by his one year old nephew who has a birthday the day before his, so a few days later we received an invitation from Jared with the above text on it!! So in keeping with Cooper's birthday party theme, Jared was thrown a big, green, 26th birthday bash on February 13th!!!

The menu consisted of green poppy seed chicken, green au gratin potatoes, green beans, green rolls, green salad, green tapioca pudding, green pistachio cake and green powerade zero to drink. On green apples were attached facts about Jared as a baby.

We dressed in green clothes (all but cute Cassidy and she forgot - can you believe that????)

Brandy wore her "Savers" spring line of stylish pants, while Dave was GQ in his "Savers" green jacket and green socks and Cooper was just plain cute in his "Carter's" green vest.

Of course Jared was showered with gifts but none were green in the form of cash! Sorry Bud!!

Happy Birthday to the best son in the whole, entire world.

Happy 1st Birthday Cooper Kaleb Jesperson

2011-02-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

We can't believe our heads

(we're starting to see red)

Cooper's turning one

so join us in the fun!!!

Well it is hard to believe that our little Cooper turned one on February 12th! Where did this past year go? For his party his Mommy and Daddy threw him a "color" themed bash. Everyone was ask to dress in red clothes, the decorations were in red, and the yummy food was also red! Of course Cooper did not care much about the adorable decorations, the food or the gifts but he sure loved the attention he was given by the adults and the kids that he got to play with.

Cooper with his birthday cupcake (it was his Aunt Mert from Alabama's famous red velvet cake recipe)

He had a blast playing with Tyce, Dawson and Emerson (she did not want to play fireman with the boys though).

Poppa and TamTam having a little make out session!!!

Of course we had to have our picture taken with the birthday boy (notice our red clothes)!!

Brandy did a wonderful job decorating (all the decorations were homemade of course - my talented little daughter)...

...and she even gave a prize to the one that came dressed in the most red. We all agreed that Carole won but Jared definitely came in second.

Cooper has been such a great blessing in our family. He warms our hearts by a simple smile or reaching those chubby little hands out to us for a hug or just to be held. We cannot get enough of the little toad (even though he prefers Poppa over TamTam when Poppa is around). Being parents to Brandy and Jared was a totally awesome experience and we can already tell that we are in store for some more amazing and heart warming experiences with our grand kids.

Happy Birthday Cooper!!!!!!!!

Chinese New Year

2011-02-20T21:17:00.000-08:00

My good friends family owns the Chinese Restaurant, Dragon Isle, which in our opinion is one of the best Chinese Restaurants in Salt Lake City. Chinese New Year has become an event that my family looks forward to each February at the Dragon Isle. On Chinese New Year the restaurant has two dragons that come and you can feed them dollar bills so you will have good luck during the coming year. The dragons meander throughout the restaurant while loud drums are being played in the background. It is an entertaining evening and one that we were looking forward to taking little Cooper to for his first time. As you can tell he was not to sure what to think as it began.

Of course Jared and Cass were excited for the entertainment and the FOOD!

Rob was out of town so Brandy was my dining companion!

Then the fun begins......

Cooper goes over to feed the dragon.....

....and the more he watched him

...the more he decided that he DID not like it!!!

Maybe next year will be better for Cooper!!!

Roaring 20's

2011-01-23T18:39:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Lisa!!!!!!!!!!

What's a good idea to do when you leave your teenage years behind and turn 20.....well have a roaring 20's party of course! When our cute little friend Lisa turned 20 her sweetheart of a sister threw her a SURPRISE roaring 20's party and it was a blast!!!! Everyone was asked to dress in their 1920's attire and show up for a little "Charleston dancing", "mobster story telling" and some "mock prohibition drinks" and of course we could not turn the invitation down.

Jared came more as a "newsies" character than a mobster and Cass was a very sweet 1920's gal!

Coop was dressed like his Uncle Jared while his Mom and Dad where very typical 1920's.

Rob and I were the epitome of a 1920's mobster and his lady, don't you think????

Here is a group shot of all the styling ladies.....

....and the good looking men!

Well of course you can't get a group of mobster's together without at least one "HIT".

RIP Jared.

Thanks to Lisa for a having a birthday and to the Selin's for putting on one "swinging" party!!

"I'll be there for you...

2011-01-20T18:35:00.000-08:00

...cause you're there for me too." I don't know how many of you watch or have watched the television show FRIENDS which aired in 2004 that is about 6 friends that live across the hall from each other and are constantly there for each other. Well I been blessed to have two friends that are always there for me too. And even though we live 2300 miles apart they have still always been there for me!

I went to a rural elementary school and before I started the sixth grade I decided that I wanted to transfer into the city school for my middle school years instead of going to the rural school like my brothers and sister had done. Sixth grade is hard enough, but it is even harder when you have NO friends but I was blessed to have this girl with long, dark hair befriend me and begin a friendship that has lasted forty plus years! Gayle is the most thoughtful person I know. There is never a holiday that goes by that I do not get a card from her, she remembers every birthday with a gift and whenever I am sick or going through difficult times she will send something to cheer me up.

When Gayle and I started our senior year of high school this bubbly, cute, brown hair girl transferred into our school and she fit right in to our little group, so we went from being two best friends to three best friends. Debbie was the talented one of the group - she made beautiful cakes and had one hot husband (did I fail to mention she was married to the sweetest guy in the entire world). My senior year of high school was a blast thanks to these amazing girls. In August after graduation in May I headed out west to go to college and Gayle and Debbie stayed in Troy but even with me being miles away they were still there for me.

A few years ago Debbie and Gayle's husbands gave them tickets to come to Utah as a Christmas gift. It was so much fun having them here! They both have amazing husbands!!

We went to Alabama when Brandy was pregnant with Cooper and my sweet sister hosted a tea in her honor. It was so much fun having Gayle and Debbie take part in this exciting time in my life. By the way Debbie is now the Grandmother to an adorable little baby boy and Gayle is working really hard on getting her kids married so she can join our "Grandmother's Club".

When we were in Alabama this past summer we allowed our husbands to join one of our little "get togethers". I sure love these wonderful friends and am so grateful for a friendship that has span the years and the miles.

Merry Christmas!!!!

2010-12-26T19:14:00.001-08:00

Rob and I were extremely blessed by Ole Saint Nick this year. The biggest blessing we have is our two amazing children, our handsome son-in-law, our beautiful daughter-in-law and our precious little Cooper. Being able to spend time with them is the only present we ever want or need!!

It was so much fun having Cooper the Elf join our family this year. He was not an awful lot of help handing out the presents...

....but he sure loved playing with the present he received!!

Being together with family to celebrate the birth of the Savior is what Christmas is all about!!

Merry Christmas everyone and Happy 2011!!

December at a Glance (thus far)

2010-12-24T07:28:00.000-08:00

December has been a busy month so I will update you on the highlights.

* The first of December Rob gave his notice at Wright Financial Express and took a job with Marlin Business Bank as the VP/Chief Risk Officer. This is a great move for him with a company that has tremendous growth opportunity. The headquarters is located in New Jersey so he will be spending a week a month in the Garden State.

* I followed suite and gave my notice after working six years for Alta Internal Medicine. In October our private medical office was purchased by HCA and I was not comfortable with the direction the office was going and decided I would rather work full time for Olsen, Jesperson & Company as a wife, mom and TamTam.

* December 8th I had back surgery. Because of my scoliosis the lower part of my spine is pushing on the nerves causing me severe back pain. The surgery involved the doctor going in and severing the nerves by burning them. This was a much more painful procedure than I had ever imagined. The surgery usually takes about 45 minutes but because of how bad my back is it took twice as long. Also the recovery has been much longer than I had planned (but then again I had only planned on it taking a few days)! As of today I am two weeks post surgery and am still experiencing alot of pain. I had a dear friend that was dieing of cancer and she always said "Act the way you wish you felt" and I have tried to follow her motto and not whine about the pain.

* The Friday before the surgery I was able to get together with the wonderful women that I worked directly with for a Christmas party. It was fun to laugh, play games, eat a yummy meal and get to know each others "other half" a little better.

* Rob's family has always gotten together Christmas Eve so for the past 8 years (since Brandy got married) my kids have not been able to spend anytime with the Olsen family during the Christmas Season because they get together with their in-law's Christmas Eve. So this year they had a family gathering prior to Christmas so our entire little family was able to attend.

* Pain or no pain there was no way I was going to miss the Christmas Party with the cute ladies that I go to lunch with once a month. Brandy and Cooper were even invited to join the festivities.

* Christmas would not be Christmas if we did not get together with Myrna and Ernie, Grandma Carole and the cute Selin Family (we thought it was funny that Dawson was calling Carole Grandma)! We were also so excited to have Lisa (Sarah's sister) join us this year. Rob's sister mentioned that they had a young couple who had become apart of there family and it made me think that we all seem to "adopted" special friends to become part of our own individual families. I couldn't imagine our little family without Grandma Carole, the Selin's and the Floyd's. We are so blessed to have them in our life!

* Well that brings us up to Christmas Eve. This year Rob and I are beginning a new Christmas Eve Tradition. It will just be the two of us and we are looking forward to a nice relaxing day of going to a movie, dinner and preparing for Ole Saint Nick to arrive tonight. So to one and all a very Merry Christmas from our home to yours!!

Christmas Gift Ideas

2010-12-13T06:33:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for some Christmas gift ideas I have the perfect place for you! Brandy's etsy shop is having a sale on all beaded jewelry! On top of the already low prices she is also offering10% off to all of my friends...pretty cool huh? Just enter the code Tammy10 when you are checking out and you will automatically get 10% off your purchase. Brandy can also gift wrap anything purchased from the "SALE Beaded Jewelry" section for no extra charge. Check out her sale items here. As Brandy's mom I've been the lucky recipient of many handmade jewelry items from this shop and I can promise you everything is made with quality materials and lots of love. Happy shopping and merry Christmas!

I love these wood bead necklaces because they go with practically everything!

I have several of these beaded watch bands. They are like a bracelet and a watch AND they are interchangeable.

You can get necklace and earring sets that perfectly coordinate.

This long necklace can be worn two different ways and can also work as a chunky bracelet.

Dangle earrings anyone?

Brandy loves these stud earrings because they are cute and she doesn't have to worry about Cooper grabbing them -- perfect for the fashionista mom on your list.

Greatest Blessings!

2010-11-23T18:23:00.000-08:00

As I have been preparing for Thanksgiving I have been reflecting on some of my greatest blessings and when I think of blessings my thoughts always seem to go to my family. I know you hear me speak about my immediate family ALOT but I also have a pretty amazing extended family. When I was growing up our vacations always consisted of going to Florida to visit my Mom's family or going to Georgia to visit my Dad's family and to be honest I never minded that (but then again I didn't know any different). My parents instilled in me a great love of family and for that I am thankful. When I married Rob I expressed my desire for my kids to be close to my family even though we lived thousands of miles of away and my sweet husband has done everything in his power to make sure that happened. This past summer we headed south with Bran, Dave and Coop (we had to introduce him to the Alabama folk)!

This is a four generation shot - Bran, my Mom, Cooper and myself.

I have two brothers and one sister but trying to get all four of us together for a picture very rarely happens. Below is my brother Sherrill and my sister June.

This is one of my Mom's sisters that I spent many a summer visiting in Florida. She is a hoot! According to Jared, she never stops talking!!

This is my one and only sister and her husband. You can tell that Coop loved spending time with his Auntie June and Uncle Bennie.

Below is a photo of my Dad's family. They are a super close family and every time we go to Alabama they travel from miles away so we can all get together (they will never know how much I appreciate that). My Dad had three brothers and two sisters, but now there is only the girls and one boy left.

I am so grateful that Rob and the kids have gotten to know each of these wonderful family members that have had such an influence in my life!

Happy Thanksgiving All!!!

Halloween!!!

2010-11-04T17:58:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween and look forward to it each year. For the past several years I have had a Halloween party complete with costumes, scary foods and equally scary decorations (well as scary as I get)!! I was so excited for mine and Rob's costumes this year --- we were Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy. Rob was such a good sport to wear his Raggedy Andy costume (he even wore it to work and won the award for most original costume).

We felt honored that Sue Sylvester and Will Schuester from Glee would honor our little party with there presence...

...and Roy Rogers and Dale Evans also stopped by with Trigger!

Of course our party always has a variety of attendees - in addition to Ann and Andy, Sue and Will, Roy, Dale and Trigger we also had Peter Pan, a beautiful butterfly, a nurse with her injured patient, a couple of zoo keepers with an adorable tiger, an evil witch, but the most glamorous attendee we had was the one and only Audrey Hepburn. I can hardly wait until next year to see who attends!!

The Blue Man Group

2010-10-16T13:08:00.000-07:00

Rob is on the advisory board for D & B and this past week they had a board meeting in Vegas. Since Rob had a gorgeous room at Caesar's Palace for the entire week Bran, Dave, Coop and I decided that we would tag along and play while he worked. Part of his meeting included dinner at The Venetian followed by the Blue Man Group and D& B was kind enough to include us in this activity.

After the show we had back stage passes to see the Blue Man Group up close and personal. As you can tell this Blue Man was getting just a little to close for my personal comfort!!! And you can also tell that Rob was not coming to my aid!!!!

Now Dave on the other hand was not letting Bran get far away from him and you can tell from the look on this Blue Man's face that he was not to happy about that!!!

I am in love...

2010-09-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

...with the cutest little boy in the whole wide world!!

Happy Birthday Bran!!

2010-09-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

28 years ago today at 12:26 AM (Hawaii time) one of the two of the greatest blessings in mine and Rob's life entered this world - Brandy Rachelle weighing in at 7 pounds 61/2 ounces and 21 1/2 inches long. Bran has been a joy to us since the day she was born. Here are a few facts you may not know about our little girl.
1. She was born with a hip socket that was not totally developed and had to wear a brace for the first 6 months of her life.
2. She was born in Honolulu, Hawaii thus she is Hawaiian!!
3. Bran loved her Aunt Eva and Peggy but had a hard time saying there names so it was always...Eggy and Peggy.
4. She was chosen as the most Outstanding Senior Girl in her Senior Class.
5. She is an incredible daughter, sister, wife and mother!

Happy birthday to our little bundle of joy!!!!

Happy Birthday Rob (just a little late)!!

2010-09-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

The 7th of July is the day we celebrate the birth of my wonderful husband! Every year I try to persuade Rob to have a birthday party with his family and friends (since I love parties) but every year he politely declines and says he just wants to spend the day with me and the kids. So this year for his birthday we went to Outback Steak House with the kids and mini Coop and then came home to a delicious cake made by his sister (it has become a tradition that Rhonda makes him his favorite German Chocolate Cake each year and I think that is the one present he looks the most forward to)! So I thought I would share some interesting professional facts that most people probably don't know about my sweetheart (most of you already know that he was a long hair, drummer that shot himself in the stomach teenager, but fortunately he grew out of that).

1. Rob's nickname is the "Professor" given to him by his peers in the business world because of his knowledge of credit/risk management.

2. Rob has authored the #1 selling book on Measures of Performance for the Credit Research Foundation

3. Rob was interviewed and quoted in Business Week Magazine this past spring.

4. Rob is on six national boards and one local board

5. Rob is a sought after speaker for credit conferences all over the country

Rob and Utah Senator Bob Bennett

I am so proud of all that Rob has accomplished in his career. He is a wonderful husband, father and provider. HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY SWEETHEART!!!!

July 4, 2010

2010-09-15T06:40:00.000-07:00

I know it is September and I am just blogging about our 4th of July trip! Please be patient with me as I continue to get caught up on all our summer activities. As most of you know mine and Rob's hobby is traveling. We love to see new parts of the country and there is no better time to do that than over a long, holiday weekend. This year for the 4th of July Brandy and Jared had plans with the in-law's so Rob and I decided to visit a place that we had never been before. There is a lodge located about 90 miles east of Salt Lake City called Daniel's Summit Lodge and we decided it was time to check it out. Rob picked me up from work on Friday, July 2nd and we headed straight up to the Lodge for our new adventure.

The Lodge reminded me alot of Yellowstone and with it was surrounded by beautiful wild flowers and there was even a bear waiting at the entrance to greet us (well maybe it wasn't a real bear but there was still a bear). Since the Lodge is in the mountains the temperature was much cooler (which is nice in July) and there is nothing better than the fresh mountain air to breath. This is what Rob and I consider camping - why would anyone want to sleep on the hard ground when you can have the "camping atmosphere" and sleep on a real bed with a nice warm shower and a flush toilet?

Our room looked out into this meadow with all these beautiful flowers It was very rustic and there was even no cell phone reception (actually that part was devastating for us since we are both attached to our iPhone). We also discovered that if we go again that we should take DVDs to watch (since there is very little to do and the television reception is not the best) and to bring plenty of food since the only available store/cafe is the small one located at the lodge.

One day we took a little side trip down to Midway to a restaurant I have been wanting to eat at called Blue Boar Inn. The food was okay...

...but the restaurant was absolutely beautiful.

I could have sat at the restaurant all day and soaked in the beauty!

We had a wonderful, relaxing 4th of July in the beautiful mountains of Utah! We would highly recommend it to anyone!!

Father's Day 2010

2010-09-09T20:39:00.000-07:00

I think that if you would ask Brandy and Jared they would tell you that they have the most amazing Dad in the world. He has always been there for the kids and would do anything they wanted or needed. He never missed a program they had a school, dance recital or soccer game. He is one dedicated Father and also in return he is one loved Father and husband. This Father's Day was his first one as a Poppa and he loved every second of having his little Cooper shower him with slobbery kisses and he didn't even mind the hugs and kisses from Bran and Jared!

Rob is the only boy with four sisters so he really never felt like he fit in with all the "estrogen" flowing in his home but he never doubted the love that his Mom and Dad had for him. He has fond memories of his Dad going on scout outings with him and teaching him handy man skills (which I am very grateful for).

My Dad has been gone for 15 years and I have missed every second of his absence. My Dad was not perfect by any means but he always had time to "sit and visit" and loved to be surrounded by his family. A week before he past away of cancer Rob had to leave Alabama and return for work in Utah while the kids and I remained in Alabama. Daddy knew it would be the last time he would ever see Rob (in this life) and he told my sweet husband as he walked out of the door, "you take care of my TamBo." I hope Daddy knows that Rob has done a great job of taking care of me and his two little fishing buddies.

I am so blessed to have had these wonderful Father's in my life.

(P.S. No wise cracks about my hair style - this picture was taken in 1987 and it was in style then!!)

Getting to Know You!!

2010-08-29T21:29:00.000-07:00

Rob's two nieces have special young men in there lives and we have been anxious to get to know them (especially since one of them will become an official member of the family in 20 days). So there is no better way to get to know someone than to have them over for dinner - right??

Here is cute little Ashley...

...with her cute friend David (aka little Dave to me).

And equally cute Miss Sarah who will become...

...Mrs. Austin Ross on September 18th.

Of course Jared wanted to make sure Austin and "little" Dave would fit in with him and "big" Dave so the young men were instructed to come prepared for a hot and sweaty game of basketball and I think that by the end results they both past the test!!

Facet Denervation

2010-08-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I have suffered with back pain for a long time and over the past years it has gotten where I can't stand or walk very far without severe pain. I have been on a pain management program, tried cortisone shots and still had extreme back pain, so the doctor decided the next step was to see if a facet denervation would help give me some relief. Facet denervation is where they sever the facet nerve, which will give you pain relief for about 9 - 12 months before it regenerates itself. In order to determine if I was a candidate on August 10th they did a medial branch block on the facet nerve to see if that eased the pain. For 24 hours I had to monitor my pain on an hourly basic and if I had pain relief then I would qualify for the surgery. Fortunately for me I did have pain relief, faxed my 24 hour pain diary to the doctor and he contacted me and we scheduled the surgery for August 27th.

Well yesterday I show up at the hospital, get in my cute little hospital gown, get my IV put in and the doctor comes in to discuss the procedure before I go into the surgery room. I mentioned to the doctor how much better I have felt since the medial branch block on the 10th and the doctor (who reminds me of Doogie Howser because he is so young looking) said well if you were my relative I would say lets not do this procedure until the block wears off which could be a week or three months. He went on to say that surgery is invasive, has risk and if you have relief from the block then lets wait until the pain returns before we do the procedure (he also apologized that he had not contacted me to see how my pain was doing since I saw him on August 10th). I have always liked Dr. Giovanellio but I have even more respect for him now - have you ever heard of a doctor sending a patient home when they are ready to be wheeled into the operating room!! To say the least I was very happy and ended up going shopping yesterday instead of having surgery!! I know I will have to have the procedure sooner or later but later is better than sooner - right?!?!?!

Memorial Day 2010

2010-08-25T06:30:00.000-07:00

The past several years we have started the summer off by going to Park City, Utah for Memorial Day Weekend with the entire family. We rent a condo where we can all stay together, we play games, watch movies, eat lots of yummy food and just enjoy spending time together. Rob and I are so blessed to have kids that enjoy spending time with us and we definitely enjoy spending time with them!!

Aren't Rob and I just the cutest couple you have ever seen???? I sure love him!! We returned home from Amelia Island on Thursday (where the temperature was in the 90's) and left for Park City the next day (where the temperature was in the 60's). We went from shorts and tee shirts to long pants and jackets within 24 hours! I just love spring in Utah - NOT!!

This year we had a new family member join us - our adorable little Coopster!

Coop was on his very best behavior for our weekend getaway. He got to participate in everything but golfing with the boys and tennis with his Uncle Jared and Daddy (maybe next year he will be ready to participate in those activities). This was his first experience at Red Banjo's Pizza on Main Street in Park City (sorry Coop has his back to you)!

Coop loves his Uncle Jared and if you want to know a secret I think he has won Uncle Jared's heart big time!!

And Coop thinks his Aunt Cassidy is pretty hot (he whispered that in my ear of course).

It was soooo much fun having Cooper along for our Memorial Day Weekend Getaway. Park City is one of our favorite places to go because it is only 30 minutes away, there are some great places to eat, outlet malls near by, you are in the mountains, and most of all you are away from home!! We are already looking forward to our Memorial Day trip with our little family next year!

I may be small.....

2010-08-21T18:58:00.001-07:00

....but I have my Poppa and TamTam wrapped around my cute little fingers!!!

Luncheon Group

2010-08-19T18:27:00.001-07:00

Many of you have heard me speak of the group of women that I join once a month for lunch - well this month one of the ladies in the group suggested that we come to her home for lunch. She lives at the top of Emigration Canyon (year round) and it is absolutely beautiful! There were squirrels and chipmunks running around in the yard and she constantly has raccoons, moose and deer stopping by to visit her. Now as much as I was loving the animals, she really dislikes them because they totally destroy her yard and flowers!

Her are few members of our luncheon group. Three of the ladies were not able to come.

Can you imagine waking up to this every morning. In preparation for winter she will board up the porch you see in the background (it goes all the way around the house) because snow will go to the roof and will not melt until June.

This is what she looks out her living room and sees!

Thanks Maria for the wonderful lunch and for opening up your home to all of us!!

Amelia Island, Flordia

2010-08-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

As most of you know Rob is the VP/Chief Risk Officer for Wright Express Financial Services (the headquarters is in Portland, Maine). At Rob's company they reward 40 employees each year who have done an outstanding job with an award called President's Club. As part of winning President's Club you receive an all expense paid trip for you and your spouse. Well my sweet husband was one of the recipients this year and we had the opportunity the end of May of going to Amelia Island which is located about 30 miles outside of Jacksonville, Florida. If you have never been to Amelia Island - go!!! It is a very laid back place (probably not the best place to take teenagers who want to be on the go constantly). The beaches are beautiful and there are some amazing golf courses.

Our room looked out right onto this beach. We would go to bed and wake up hearing the crashing waves - what a relaxing sound!!

This was our "Island Hopper"/transportation around Amelia Island. There was a place outside of the hotel for you to park it and then whenever you wanted to go someplace you would just come out of the hotel, jump on it and away we would go. It was alot of fun, slow, but fun!!

In the middle of the Island there was a little village of shops. This blue building behind Rob is actually a Chico's! Since I am a shopper and Rob is not, he sat under these beautiful trees and got caught up on his work email (yes he is a workaholic , but if he wasn't I guess we would not have been on this trip) while I browsed.

As we cruised around in our Island Hopper this is some of the beautiful scenery we saw.

A special thank you to my amazing husband for working so hard to support our family and for winning this fun trip! I am so proud of him and all he does for me and our children. I love you Rob!!!!

Mini Coop at 6 Months

2010-08-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Today is our little Cooper's six month birthday. It is amazing what joy he has brought into our home in such a short amount of time! Below is what he looks like at 6 months old and below that is what his Mommy looked like at 6 months of age. Do you see any resemblance??

Mother's Day

2010-08-09T06:30:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day this year was extra special for me. In addition to being honored by my awesome kids and husband and having a wonderful Mother and Mother-in-law to honored, it was also the day that Cooper was blessed in our church. There is nothing more that a Mother could ask for than to watch her grandson be blessed by his wonderful Father and to see my sweet husband and son in the circle as this blessing is being given - this was truly the best Mother's Day present I could have ever received! And to make it even closer to my heart Cooper wore the same outfit that his Uncle Jared was blessed in 25 years ago. I am so blessed to have the wonderful family that I have!

Cooper on his blessing day.

Four generations....
...Bob & Maurine Olsen, Rob & Tammy Olsen, Dave & Brandy Olsen Jesperson, Cooper Jesperson

Chandler, Arizona

2010-08-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

The first of May Rob was invited by Experien (a commercial credit bureau) to speak at their annual conference that was being held at the Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Arizona. Since there had been no sign of spring here in Utah at that time, I quickly volunteered to escort Rob to sunny Arizona and hang out by the pool while he did his thing. It was a great trip for me (poor Rob was in meetings all the time) because I finally got to warm up after a long winter and got caught up on some reading.

Under the tree is where I spend my days reading with the pool boy bring me my soft drinks whenever I wanted them....it was really a rough few days!
Our room was on the bottom floor so I could just walk out the door to the pool! And for those of you that have never been to Arizona it really is a desert like this picture indicates!

Petty Experience

2010-08-05T06:49:00.000-07:00

As I have said many times before you can tell how busy I have been by how often I update my blog, so since life has been super crazy at my house I am really behind on posting. I have decided that I have to catch everyone up on what has been happening with us and I am starting with Rob's Richard Petty Racing Experience that took place this past April. Rob is on the D & B Advisory Counsel (D & B are a commercial credit bureau headquartered in New Jersey) and they have several meetings a year that Rob attends. The meeting this past spring was in Orlando and the conference activity was going to the Richard Petty Raceway and actually driving the cars at top speed 8 laps around the track. Of course this was right up Rob's alley (he may come off looking like Mr. Conservative but in reality he is Mr. Rowdy)! After getting all dressed up in the fireproof driving attire he climbed in the window and "smoked" everyone! He was very proud that he reached the highest speed in his group of drivers and I have warned him several times since that he better not reach that speed with me in my Toyota Sienna Van!!

Stay tuned because I promise more postings are coming!!

Aloha!

2010-04-28T21:41:00.000-07:00

We were excited to have our friends Bruce and Margie from Laie, Hawaii come visit us while they were in Salt Lake City. I had the joy of working with Margie when we lived in Hawaii 28 years ago. She and Bruce started dating while we worked together, got engaged and married and Rob I were fortunate enough to be invited to participate in all the wedding festivities - Rob was even the photographer for the wedding! Now 4 kids and a little gray hair later they are still as much fun to be around as ever! We have been able to visit them on our trips to Hawaii but this is the first time they have visited us and it was a delight having them in our home!

Mom - Another Project?!?!?

2010-04-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

Several months ago I was asked if I would help with the advertisement for our Stake Relief Society Women's Conference that is going to be held the end of May - Janice Kapp Perry will be the guest speaker. I needed to make 160 invitations to take around to the ladies that live in our neighborhood so I called upon my awesome husband and kids to help me with this assignment. So after having our first grilled chicken and corn on the cob of the season we sat down and started our project of cutting, folding and assembling and below is the results of our labors. It was a fun project done with the best company in the world! I am so lucky to have such a supportive family that will help out with what ever project I throw at them!

Of course after the "card making" was over Jared and Dave had to have a manly game of basketball since they had been doing girlie stuff for the past few hours! While they played basketball Grandpa and I got to cuddle with our cute little Cooper. Life is great at our home!!

Easter at the Olsen's

2010-04-09T20:55:00.001-07:00

Easter has always been a special day for me. I have such fond memories of gathering with my Dad's extended family for a potluck dinner, Easter egg hunt and playing with my cousins all while dressed in my new Easter frock. We have tried to make Easter a special day for our kids but this year Jared made it special for us when he walked in with STRAIGHT hair. Jared inherited his Mom's curly hair, so for fun Cassidy straightened it with her flat iron which gave us all a big laugh. So who do you think he looks like with his straight hair - Mom or Dad?

This year it was also exciting to have Coop with us. This cute little smile came on his face when his Mom walked in his sight - it melted all of our hearts!

Aren't they the cutest little family?!?

Easter would not be the same without the Selin's joining us (we really missed Ben and Des this year because they have spent the past four Easter's with us) Here they are going through their Easter baskets that the Easter Bunny left at our home.

Of course the Easter Bunny left Coop his very first Easter basket. The yellow duck is a miniature version of a duck that his Mommy got from her Aunt Eva twelve years ago.

Jared and Cass with their Easter basket. Brandy and Jared have had the same Easter basket since they were tiny and each year they put it out so the Easter Bunny can fill it

We still can't get over his straight hair. Take a good look at it because it will probably be the last time you ever see it!!!

Happy Birthday Cooper!

2010-04-09T19:32:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that today is Cooper's two month birthday! The time has gone by so fast and we have loved every second of it. Cooper is a delight to have around and we could not imagine our family without him.

Here is a picture of Cooper with his two very best friends, Emerson and Dawson.

He looks so big sitting in his Bumbo chair! He would only sit up for a couple seconds before he would fall over, but he sure looked cute for those couple seconds.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY COOPER KALEB JESPERSON!!!!

The Olsen Clan

2010-03-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

In December we celebrated Rob's Dad's 75th birthday. Even though all but one of Rob's sisters live in the Salt Lake Valley we have a hard time getting the entire family together. Below is a picture of the Olsen clan minus a few!We were color coordinated....

Red - Mom and Dad Olsen

Green - Eva (the oldest child) and her family

White - Rob (the second and only boy) and his family - Cooper was in his Mom's belly

Blue - Rhonda (the third child) and her family - her oldest son's wife and 3 kids were not able to come from Kentucky

Orange - Rowena (the fourth child) and her family - her son and his family were not able to come from Boise, Idaho and Mandy's husband was not there (since this picture Mandy has had twin girls)

Black - Lisa (the baby of the family) and her boys

Rob with his Mom, Dad and sisters.

This is all the grandchildren but one. There are also nine great grandchildren (that includes the three new arrivals).

All because two people feel in love....we have this wonderful family!!!!!

We love our kids and little Coop...

2010-03-06T10:19:00.000-08:00

... and are darn proud of them (as you can tell by all the pictures).

These pictures were taken when he was 8 days old by a cute girl named Carrie Shin Pace.

Aren't they the cutest little family you have ever seen???

Cooper Update

2010-02-28T22:07:00.001-08:00

Below are pictures of Cooper taken Sunday, February 28, 2010. It is hard to believe that he is 16 days old already! He went in for his two week check last Thursday and weighed in at 7 pounds 8 ounces and 21 inches long (75 percentile for height and 25 percentile for weight). He is going to be a tall, skinny kid just like his parents. It is amazing how in 16 short days he has wrapped us all around his teeny, tiny fingers!

Our Mini Cooper

2010-02-18T19:02:00.001-08:00

Here is little Cooper at 6 days old!! Who do you think he looks like??

This is his "poop" face and yes that is exactly what he was doing when this was taken!!!

How can you not love this little face - don't you just want to kiss those cute cheeks?!?!?

HApPy ValEnTinE's Day

2010-02-15T19:17:00.001-08:00

Since Coop couldn't have chocolates for Valentine's Day, Grandpa Rob and TamTam had to get him a Valentine's shirt to celebrate the day. Isn't he a little stud muffin?!?!?!

Shhhhh...

2010-02-14T09:17:00.000-08:00

Dave had gone home to shower, Bran was asleep and Grandpa was on Coop duty. This is what I walked in and found.......both sound asleep!! My cute big boy and my cute little boy - I love um!!!

Happy B'day Jared & Little Coop

2010-02-13T20:55:00.001-08:00

Today is my little boy's 25th birthday. Man, where has the time gone? If Coop turns out to be half the young man that Jared is my daughter will be a very lucky Mom. Jared is an incredible son and Rob and I feel so blessed to be his parents. Happy birthday to my son, my son!!

In addition to being Jared's birthday it is Coop's "two day" birthday. When we arrived at the hospital this morning Dave said that we needed to take more pictures of Cooper because he had changed since yesterday so below are his two day old pictures! I am not prejudice or anything but he is really the cutest, sweetest little baby I have ever seen, and yes Grandpa and TamTam are totally smitten with him!! Soundly sleeping!!

How precious.

Mommy and Coop

Love the hair!!!!

Dave did his hair so he would be "stylin"!

Our Little Super Coop

2010-02-13T07:16:00.001-08:00

Cooper Kaleb Jesperson

2010-02-12T08:05:00.001-08:00

Holding my TamTam's finger! She sure loves me!!

Arrived February 12, 2010 at 7:31 AM. Weighing in at 6 pounds and 13.4 ounces and 20-1/2 inches long. My TamTam and Grandpa think I am the cutested thing they have seen since Uncle Jared was born 25 years ago tomorrow!!

HAPPY 2010

2010-01-07T06:57:00.000-08:00

As we start the New Year I have been reflecting on the great blessings that I have been blessed with and have decided that the GREATEST blessing I have is my family. I have a wonderful husband that loves my unconditionally, a daughter that is truly amazing, and a son that is a true example to all. And to top that off Brandy married a wonderful man and Jared married a sweetheart of a girl. What more could a wife and mother want?

Happy 2010 to each of you and may you take the time to reflect on your blessings!

My handsome son and his cute wife!

My beautiful pregnant daughter and her "freezing" husband (we are looking forward to seeing our first grandchild in only 6 weeks). Don't you love the heart over her tummy!

My whole little family (don't I have a cute husband). How many families would go outside on a freezing day and take pictures just to make Mom happy? My family, that's who!!

December Greetings

2009-12-28T15:57:00.000-08:00

December has been a fun month for us! We have been able to spend time with family and friends, we have had plenty of mouth watering (and calorie laden) goodies to partake of and we were showered with wonderful gifts from ole Saint Nick.

We started our December off with dinner at Carole and Alma's. The past few years they have had us over for a tree decorating party. Carole provides a delicious dinner and then we all work together putting up her tree. It is a fun evening where the guys get to use their brawn and the girls their decorating talents!!

On December 19th all of Rob's family got together to celebrate Rob's Dads 75th birthday party. All of the family was there but one grandchild. As soon as I get pictures back from the photographer I will blog some of the evening

Christmas Eve we had Rob's parents and two of his sisters and there family over for dinner. I am not sure why but none of us thought to take pictures!

Christmas Day the kids showed up about 11:00 and we opened presents, played WII, napped, had a yummy dinner and then played some more. Below are some pictures from Christmas Day.

Jared waiting his turn to open a present!

He got tired of waiting and decided to give Cassidy a hair cut!! Silly boy!!!

Brandy is much more prim and proper than her brother!!

We decided that it doesn't take much to excite Cassidy - just give her an insulated lunch box or a potato masher and she is thrilled!!

Dave is struggling with who to support - Auburn or Alabama, but little Cooper will be toasty warm in this Auburn blanket and hat!!

Cooper is not even here yet but Santa still brought him this cute fire engine full of goodies - think he is going to be spoiled????

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from our family to yours!!!

October and November Happenings

2009-11-30T08:22:00.000-08:00

I have said it before but you can definitely tell how busy I have been by how often I update my blog. It seems like the past two months have gone by in a blur!! October started off great but went down hill very quickly. October 5th we found out that our little bundle of joy that will be arriving in February is going to be an adorable little boy. We are so excited for his arrival. But two days after this announcement Dave's (our son-in-law) mother past away unexpectedly. It was devastating news to his family and all that knew his amazing Mother. Then a week after that I came down with the flu - the doctor said it was H1N1. Fortunately Rob had a business trip planned that week so I did not have to worry about him getting sick so I got to spend the week home alone in bed. A week after I recovered from the flu guess what happens - I come down with pneumonia! By the end of October I was so tired of being sick!

As most of you know I love Halloween and even with Rob encouraging me to cancel my annual Halloween bash, I decided sickness or no sickness the Halloween party must go on!! So Halloween night we were joined by the Blues Brothers, a Wal-Mart greeter, a 60's girl, a beautiful princess, a rock-n-roller, a doctor and her cowboy, Jon and Kate, a couple of hippies with their lady bug, a baker with his bun in the oven, a monkey and a dinosaur. It was definitely a different group of people to have all together in one house, but it sure was fun!!

Once Halloween was over I started getting ready for Christmas. We planned to go to Alabama for Thanksgiving to move my Mom from the house that she had lived in for almost 60 years in the country into a home in town so I wanted all my shopping done for Alabama so I could take it with me. In addition to Christmas shopping I also wanted to get my house decorated for Christmas before we left so thanks to the wonderful elves in my life (named Rob, Brandy, Dave, Jared and Cass) we were able to get all that done by November 16th.

Rob and I left for Alabama on November 21st and spent a busy week helping my Mom get settled into her new home. It is a beautiful home and we are so excited to have her in town with neighbors to help keep an eye on her. Below is a picture of her new home.

While there I got to spend some time with my cute little niece Amy.

Below is a picture of me, my sister June and my Mom on Thanksgiving Day. Aren't we the cutest?!?!

I am so grateful that Rob and I were able to go to Alabama and help get my Mom settled in her new home. It was a very tiring trip but also a very rewarding trip for us. But most of all we are glad to be back in our own home!!!!!

Little Tams

2009-10-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

We have lived in our home for 22 years and during that time we have watched little Tammy Thompson grow from a cute little 18 month old with pig tails into a beautiful young lady. So with her first little one due in December Brandy and I (along with the Hortin girls and Roslyn) decided to give her a baby shower. It was fun to reminisce about her growing up years (she lives in Nebraska now so we don't get to chat very often), to see her with a little baby belly, to visit with all those that attended the shower, and to see the cute things she received for little Walker or Caden (they haven't decided which name yet). We are excited for the arrival of her little boy and only wish that she still lived across the street so we could spoil him like we all spoiled her when she was little!

Amazing Friends

2009-10-05T19:37:00.000-07:00

I have been blessed to have amazing friends from all over the world. A few weeks ago my friend from Iran married the man of her dreams. She had always wanted a beach wedding so she chose the beach of Bear Lake to be married on. Below is a picture of my dear friend Roshan and my dear friend Emma (who is from the Philippines) on Roshan's wedding day.

These women are great examples to me and I am so grateful for there friendship!!

McDreamy

2009-09-20T14:17:00.000-07:00

I have been a fan of Patrick Dempsey, commonly known as McDreamy (and star of Enchanted and Maid of Honor) for a long time. So when I heard that he was going to be racing at the Miller Motorsports Park for the third year in a row and we were offered free tickets to the race I was more than happy to go!! So on race day Rob and I drove out to the racetrack with Rob excited for a great race and some amazing pictures and me excited to see my big screen heart throb. Once arriving we get a program, found some great seats and then I proceed to read the program that I had just been handed. From the program I found out that Dempsey's car was a Mazda RX 8 and it was number 40. Then the farther I read in the program I discovered that McDreamy WOULD NOT be racing (something due to a movie he was working on and couldn't get away for the race) but that his team mates would actually be driving the shiny silver #40. Well my heart was crushed and I had no desire to even walk over to the pit (where if he would have been there I would have been able to get a picture of that cute face) but my sweet, even cuter husband, went over and took some pictures for me while I stayed in my seat and pouted! Even without the owner of car #40 there it was still a great day spent with the love of my life and watching seventy men act like boys as they drove around a track for 2 hours and 45 minutes in loud, fast cars. And I must admit that after watching them I had just a little desire to get in one of those loud, fast cars and go for a little spin myself!!

The Dempsey car - #40

Don't you think it resembles McDreamy just a little?

OUR LABOR DAY JOURNEY

2009-09-10T20:46:00.001-07:00

We started the summer off by going to Park City for three nights with the whole fam over Memorial Day weekend. So with summer coming to a close we decided there would be no better way to end it than to go to Vegas for three nights with our kids (plus we got a great deal on a condo)! So last Saturday we all piled into the van and headed for our first stop along the way - Beaver, Utah where we had the best french toast in the world at the Paradise Restaurant. After filling out tummies we headed to our final destination - the Marriott Chateau just off the strip in Vegas! Dave's brother lives in Henderson, Nevada so he was able to get us free tickets to Nathan Burton (a magician) who was a amazing to watch (the best part of the show was when they had Dave come onto the stage and dressed him as a woman. Unfortunately they would not let us take pictures so we do not have any proof that this actually happened and Dave would probably deny that it happened if you ask him!) His brother also got us tickets to an impersonator named Larry G. Jones. I fell in love with his show and would highly recommend it to anyone. And the best part is that he is from Opelika, Alabama!!

We were able to shop, went to the Hoover Dam, did a little swimming, napped, watched some DVDs and did A LOT of eating! We even went to Serendipity 3 for a yummy frozen hot chocolate (my cousin Michelle had recommended it own her blog). And of course Jared and Dave were able to get in a game of basketball with Dave's brother and his friends. It was a great three days spent with our little family. Brandy and Dave commented on the way home that this would probably be the last trip that we would all be able to take in one vehicle because when the baby comes there will be to much baby paraphernalia to fit in the van with all the rest of our luggage. The realization hit that our family trips will be totally different come February but we are excited for this new little addition that is coming into our family and all the changes he/she will bring.

Rob didn't take any pictures so I have none to post of our Labor Day trip but just know we had a great time!

The End of a Tradition

2009-09-09T07:47:00.000-07:00

Rob and I have been blessed with amazing neighbors. For the past 10 years (except for the few occasions that we were out of town) we have hosted a Neighborhood Fourth of July Party. It is great being surrounded by our neighborhood family, having great food, fireworks, volleyball, basketball, and yes even waterballon fights while celebrating this wonderful country that we live in. Before the kids were married they helped us prepare for this big event. But since they have moved out it is just Rob and I preparing to have 50 people at our home and it has become alot of work. So this year when we were setting up Rob and I both came to the conclusion that it was time to end the Olsen Fourth of July Neighborhood Party. So as we end this tradition, I am already thinking of what new tradition I can start so I can spend time with my neighbors!! Below are a couple pictures from our final party!

Kenny and Marie are the best!!

We have been getting together for the 4th of July since before Kenzie and Caden were born!!

These are the best backdoor neighbors that anyone could ever have!!

As you can tell the women in the neighbor really like to talk!!

The Thomson's are a true blessing to our neighborhood!

All In A Name!

2009-08-24T15:17:00.000-07:00

Can the world really handle another JARED???

Jared still occasionally gets mail at our house. This past week he received a letter from a little girl on his mission that he had not heard from in several years. He was really close to her family when he served in the California San Jose Mission. She wrote that her Mother had recently had another child and that they had named the baby boy after Jared. Jared was thrilled! As we all sat around talking (Brandy, Dave, Jared, Cass, Rob and myself) it came out that Dave had a family that had named there newborn son after him on his mission, that Cassidy had a family that she use to babysit name a baby girl after her, that Brandy got her name from a little girl that Rob knew on his mission, my name came from the Tammy movie and Rob was the third generation of Robert's in his family (you can tell with Jared's name that Rob did not want to have a fourth generation)! Isn't it interesting how we get our names!!

TamTam and Rob

2009-08-21T21:19:00.001-07:00

I have always told the kids that I will "tell them" when I am old enough to be a grandmother and then they could consider having kids. Well I guess they got tired of waiting for me to get old enough and decided that Rob was old enough (you know he is MUCH older than me :) to be a grandpa because for his birthday in July Brandy and Dave gave him a package that contained a cute little baby onesie that said "Worth the Wait" on it! To say the least we are all very excited. Even though we have known since July 7th Brandy had asked that I not blog about it until she had spoken personally with all the people she wanted to tell so finally this week she gave me the go ahead to blog about the exciting news. Her official due date is February 21 (Uncle Jared's only request is that the "little rug rat" doesn't come on his birthday which is February 13th). And since this is our first grandchild Rob and I get to decide what we want to be called. I have always said that I want to be called TamTam (Dave already calls me that) and when we asked Rob he said "ROB". I have a feeling he will change his mind though!!

Brandy was able to go to Alabama with us in July so she could tell all her Alabama relatives in person. June (my sister) held a little luncheon in Brandy's honor with the most adorable cake topped with a sleeping baby. All those in attendance wrote advise for the Mother-to-be.

I have also decided that in addition to showers for the Mother-to-be that there needs to be a shower for the TamTam-to-be because this little bundle of joy is going to be expensive for me since I have to set up a nursery at my house, get a car seat, stroller, diapers, man the list goes on and on!! Do you get the sense that we are just a little excited for the arrival of this little one!!!

Chicago

2009-08-16T11:40:00.000-07:00

Every other August Rob has a Credit Research Foundation Meeting (he is on the Board of Trustees) in Chicago. Rob is in meetings pretty much the entire time so when I go with him I get to site see all by myself. So a few years ago we took Brandy and Dave with us so I would have someone to shop Michigan Avenue with (it is a shoppers paradise) and to share the sights with. So this year we invited Jared and Cass to come along and be my touring companions. I had a great time showing them around a city that I love. I would move to downtown Chicago in a heartbeat (if I had experienced a winter there I might have a different opinion).

The architecture of the buildings in downtown Chicago is amazing.

There is no other place that I know where you can go and get spit on by a real Chicagoan and have it feel as cool and relaxing as it does than at Millennium Park.

The Godmother of Chicago - Ms. Oprah Winfrey's studio.

I have already told Brandy and Dave and Jared and Cass that when they have a little girl that TamTam will be taking them to Chicago to the American Girl Place store. You can have your doll's hair done, ears pierced, they even have a hospital for dolls that have broken limbs, you can have lunch with your doll and last but not least you can buy matching outfits for you and your doll.

We went on a Mobster Tour of Chicago where we learned all about the mobsters that use to run the Windy City (by the way did you know that Chicago got the name the Windy City not because it is windy but because Chicagoan's really like to talk).

Jared and Cassidy went to the top of the Sears Tower and went out on the glass platform. Not me - I kept my feet firmly on the ground!!!

Can't wait for a return trip!!

CONGRATULATIONS MY SON, MY SON

2009-08-05T23:26:00.000-07:00

This congratulations post is a little late in coming. Jared graduated from the University of Utah in May and when we asked if he wanted a big graduation party he said no just dinner at Tepanyaki with the fam and that is exactly what he got - well that along with a big Craftsman stand alone tool box for his many tools!! We are so proud of Jared and his great accomplishments. He is a great son, husband (I hope), brother, provider, and example to all that know him. Plus I think he is pretty darn cute, but then I am a little prejudice!

The U of U Graduate...

....with his biggest fan club...

...and his adorable little wife!

Jared wants the big CELEBRATION to be when he completes his MBA which he will be starting here in a few weeks and I assure you we will have a BIG party (if that is okay with Cass) when he is done!!

Just a side note, Rob and I have had to swallow a lot of pride since we are both BYU Alumni to support the U of U, but that wasn't to hard to do since our daughter, daughter-in-law, son and son-in-law are all graduates of the U of U and they are pretty awesome people. Go Utes, unless you are playing BYU :)

The Good Ole South!

2009-08-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

I have so many fond memories of growing up in the south. Every Easter my Dad's family would get together at the Banks Community Center for a potluck dinner and Easter egg hunt. When we drove by the Community Center this trip I made Rob stop and take a picture of it! It may not look like much to you but it is full of memories for me.

We went to the cemetery where my grandparents are buried and we ran across this headstone that we all found interesting. Have you ever known an Indian Fighter before?

Going to the south would never be complete without a fish fry or shrimp boil. Well my brother went all out and did both for us this trip. For a shrimp boil you take your red potatoes, corn on the cob, sausage and shrimp and put in a waterproof bag (he used an orange bag) and put into a boiling pot full of water with a special seasoning (I brought some of the seasoning home so we could have our own shrimp boil since Jared wasn't there to partake).

It is definitely some good eatin!

Another "have to do" for Rob when we visit the south is to eat at the Waffle House. Here is a picture of me, Brandy and my sister-in-law outside the "high class" restaurant called Waffle House.

And last but not least my other brother! He is a sweetheart but he is also the biggest "REDNECK" you will ever find! I sure love him!

We had a great trip to Alabama. It was so much fun visiting with family, friends and reminiscing about days gone by. I miss living close to my family but I am so grateful that my kids have been able to experience just a little of what my life was like growing up in the true Heart of Dixie. Roll Tide Roll and War Eagle y'all!!!!!!

Destin and Panama City Beach

2009-07-31T00:01:00.000-07:00

Well as most of you know Rob is a big HARD ROCK CAFE fan. He has been to over three fourths of all the HARD ROCK CAFE'S in the world. But there was one that had eluded him for years and it was the one in Destin, Florida. So we decided to take a little overnight jaunt with my cute niece Amy and her kids to visit it and the great beaches of Panama City, Florida. The only thing that could have made our trip better is if my sister, brother-in-law and mother would have been able to go with us. Maybe next time!

The one Hard Rock Cafe that has finally been conquered!

My Aunt Elouise lives in a beautiful condo in Panama City so she had us all over to dinner.

This is just her patio so you can imagine what the rest of her home was like!

Oh, aren't we a cute couple. I sure love my husband!

Isn't this a romantic sunset!

The view from my Aunt's balcony.

Can't wait to go back!!!

Aunt Wonnie and Uncle Jimmy

2009-07-30T23:44:00.000-07:00

No trip to Alabama would be complete without visiting with my favorite Aunt and Uncle on my Moms side of the family. Aunt Wonnie and Uncle Jimmy still talk about when they use to change my diaper -- they even gave me a porcelain doll on this trip as a reminder of those "fond" memories! And talk about talking.....well that is what my Aunt Wonnie is famous for! You can't get a word in when she is around because she is constantly talking and that is what we love about her! They will be celebrating there fifty wedding anniversary in a few days and we sure wish we were there to celebrate it with them.

I thought this bird was beautiful sitting on the bird bath in my Mom's yard. Wish we had birds like that in Utah!!

Alabama Luncheon

2009-07-30T22:03:00.001-07:00

While in Alabama my sweet sister held a luncheon in honor of Brandy. She invited some ladies that are very special in our lives

Brandy and her cute little Granny Rachel

Brandy and her favorite Aunt!

Brandy, June, Amy and Sarah Todd

Me, Brandy, Hollis and my two BFF's from high school.

Brandy, Aunt Wonnie (my Mom's sister), Aunt Mert (my Dad's sister), Mother and our good family friend, Sis.

Brandy received plenty of advise from these wise women! Oh how we wish we lived closer to them all.

ALABAMA

2009-07-27T15:10:00.000-07:00

I have decided that my blog is an indication of how busy my life is. If I blog often, I am not very busy, if I don't blog often then I am really busy. Well we just returned from a great trip to my birth place, good ole Troy, Alabama. Brandy, Rob and I went down for a fun week of visiting with family and friends the only problem is that we did not have enough time to do all that we wanted to do! On the 9th of July all of my Dad's family (my aunts, uncles and cousins - anyone a Minnesota Twins fan because my cousins husband plays for them) got together for lunch and some reminiscing in our honor. Everytime we go home they always get together so I can see everyone - I sure love them!

In my Dad's family there were four brothers and two sisters. Three, including my Dad, have past away. Below are my two favorite Aunts (they are the most southern belles that you will ever meet - did you know there is a certain way to have your feet positioned when you have a photo taken - they educated me in the stance) and my studly uncle. Also in the picture is there two favorite nieces - me and my much "older" sister!

Below is a picture of my sweetheart of a brother and his wife (in the background are pictures of my cute daughter and cousins).

Here is Brandy and I with my sweet, sweet niece Amy. She is more like a sister than a niece.

There will be more pictures to come of our trip - I promise!!

Happy Father's Day

2009-06-21T15:24:00.000-07:00

Today is Father's Day and I have to tell my sweet husband how wonderful he is! He is the world's best father and husband. There is nothing that Rob would not do for me or his children. Work, church, and even his own interest take second place to the needs of his family. There have been many, many times that Rob has rearranged his schedule when the kids and I have needed him. Several years ago Rob had flown to Texas for a meeting. That same day I went to see the doctor because I had found a lump in my breast. The doctor was concerned and wanted to run test on it the next morning. Will you can never guess who walked into the hospital as I sat there dressed in my cute hospital gown that morning but my sweet husband. As soon as he found out he made arrangements to get on the first flight out, forgo his meeting and come back to be with me. What a man! We love you so much Rob!!!!

It's Been a While!

2009-06-18T15:54:00.000-07:00

The past several weeks have been crazy busy so I have not had a chance to update my blog. So sit back and get comfortable while I update you on the past three weeks!

The end of May we were given free tickets to go to the World Championship Superbike Races at Larry H. Miller Sports Park. I really did not want to go at first and suggested Rob get Jared or Dave to go with him. But since neither were available I went and it was AMAZING!. I have never seen motorcycles go so fast and I was awe struck to watch them go around the corners nearly laying on their sides. We also had pit passes so we were able to go into the pits and see how well maintained these motorcycles are. Each motorcycle went through 18 tires during three days or races. There were only two Americans in the races and the rest were from other countries.

Then June 4th was my 29th birthday and I was treated like a queen. My BFF's (Gayle and Debbie) sent me beautiful flowers and balloons and since I had to work on my birthday my little friend Carole sent me a gorgeous bouquet of flowers to work. I even received a phone call at work from one of my friends in Alaska (I really felt special). After work we (the family) all went out to dinner and they had a delicious cake and presents for me at the restaurant. I had a super birthday and really have been blessed for only being 29 :) .

We have had a lot of rain here and I am a SUN person. I need the sun to feel good and when it rains it makes my ankle ache double time. So last Friday Rob called me about 2:00 and said it is suppose to rain through the weekend so what if we go to Vegas. Of course that was fine with me so we were on the road to Vegas by 4:00 (doesn't take us long to pack). The weather was in the 80's, plenty of sun, and there were not a lot of people (by Las Vegas standards) so we had a grand time. We went to see Terry Fator (the ventriloquist that won You've Got Talent) and he was spectacular. On Sunday we had to get up early and head back to Salt Lake City because I had a fireside to speak at and Rob had a Baptism Preview to conduct, but being out of the rain for 32 hours was nice!

Also the girls and I have started an Etsy shop. An Etsy shop is an online handmade craft store. We have made alot of jewelry, cards, etc. to sell. So if you would like to purchase any of our handmade items go to http://www.justourstyle.etsy.com/ and once purchased we will mail them to you in a jiffy!

I have also been busy with my volunteer work at LDS Family Services. It has been amazing to learn of some of the child abuse that exist - it makes you want to hug your own kids a little tighter. I cannot imagine being a counselor and dealing with the abused or abusers.

Well that is a brief summary of what has been happening in my life the past few weeks. I am looking forward to nice, warm, rain free weather to arrive so I can do some yard work.

Our Daughter the Pro

2009-06-02T20:32:00.000-07:00

Today I got to go with Brandy to a production studio to watch her film a crafting DVD. In the DVD Bran does 10 segments showing how to make different paper craft items (different ways to wrap gifts, how to use glitter in your projects, how to make flowers out of lace to embellish your cards, how to make envelops to match your homemade cards, how to make these adorable paper butterflies, and five other crafty projects). For those of you interested in purchasing the DVD I don't think it will be available for several months but if you are a crafty person it is one you will want in your DVD library. She is definitely a pro and I am so proud of her.

P.S. She did not get her talents from her Mother or Father!!

A fun month

2009-05-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

May has been a fun month. We had a great trip to Hawaii (minus the lei rash), Rob and Jared put a new patio for me in the backyard (sorry it was such hard work boys), I received a beautiful watch from Jared and Cassidy for Mother's Day (thanks Connie) and a gorgeous necklace from Brandy and Dave (they know I have a passion for jewelry), we got to spend some time with Rob's family which we don't get to do very often, the weather started to warm up and then to top off the month we (the whole fam damily) went to Park City for four days to celebrate our anniversary and Memorial Day. I wish every month could be like this month has been!

My new patio installed by two patient men!

Enjoying our delicious Memorial Day hamburgers.

The women hard at work...hahaha.

Jared, the one that really did the work!

The fam (minus Mom - I had to stay behind to take photos) as they headed up the mountain to ride the zip line down in Park City.

Don't I have the cutest little family?!?!

We're Back

2009-05-15T20:00:00.001-07:00

Well unfortunately our Hawaiian vacation had to come to an end! We had a great time and I am so grateful for my amazing husband who planned such a fun, relaxing trip for me. I have the best husband in the world. On our flight back there was an older couple setting next to us. The husband kept catering to his wife's every need (getting things she needed from the overhead luggage bins, adjusting the air for her, etc.) and I looked at Rob and commented on how that looked like us - because Rob is constantly doing things for me. I am so grateful for the past 30 years that I have had to share with him and I am looking forward to spending another 30 years with this wonderful, sexy man!

I will never, never...

2009-05-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

... get another lei! There was some Hawaiian jewelry that I really wanted but decided to save my money for a project we are working on at home. Well I ended up spending the money that I would have spent on the jewelry on going to the doctor and getting a prescription for prednisone and cortisone cream for this awful rash from that darn beautiful lei! I will never, never be enticed by the beauty and smell of a gorgeous flower lei again! Mel promised to remind me the next time we are in Hawaii to NOT go near the leis - so don't forget your promise Mel!

ALOHA

2009-05-12T01:39:00.000-07:00

This was taken today after spending the morning at the pool. In the background you can see Diamond Head.

My goofy husband!

My wonderful Mother's Day Brunch with my cute husband!

The Hawaii Temple for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is closed for an 18 month renovation.

I just wanted to give everyone an update on our trip! We have had a wonderful time doing absolutely nothing!! We have lounged by the pool (the beach is only a stone throw away from the pool but we prefer the pool over the sand of the beach). Rob has done a lot on the computer and I have read two good books. We have done a little shopping and we have also driven around the island to the North Shore. We went to dinner with one of our oldest and dearest friends, Mel, and got caught up on what has been happening in Hawaii (he works for a Hawaii State Senator) and did some reminiscing about old times (he still remembers holding Brandy when she was a tiny baby) and of course he had to update me on one of my favorite locals - Dog the Bounty Hunter!

We have been coming to Hawaii every two years for about the past 15 years and over that time we have seen a lot of changes but this time there are a few things that have really stood out to us. When you use to get off the plane in Honolulu you would be greeted by Hawaiian music and the smell of plumeria trees. Well now when you get off the plane there is no music and the only smell you get is diesel fumes from the planes. Actually we have heard very little Hawaiian music during this trip and we really miss it. Another issue is traffic. Driving out to the North Shore use to be such a relaxing, beautiful drive but this time we felt like we were in rush hour traffic the whole way. What use to be about a three hour drive to drive completely around the island turned out to be about a five hour drive due to bumper to bumper traffic. Hawaii really needs to do something about the traffic congestion. And then lastly going to the International Market Place use to be one of our favorite things to do because your could barter and get some good buys but that has not been the case this trip. The prices are set and bartering is not an option! But even with these changes we will still be back because this is Paradise!!

Reminder to self....

2009-05-11T01:04:00.000-07:00

....do not get "lei-ed" in Hawaii (get your mind out of the gutter folks). Every time we come to Hawaii I am drawn to the beautiful, sweet smelling lei's and forget that my skin does not like them, not even for a few minutes. Friday night Rob bought me a plumeria lei and I wore it for all of thirty minutes and woke up Saturday morning with an awful rash around my neck. So after a visit to the pharmacy for cortisone cream, calamine lotion and benadryl I still have a ring around my neck that itches, is not pleasant on the eye and hurts when in the sun. You would think that after going through this several times in the past that I would have learned, but no not me!!

Happy Mother's Day to Me

2009-05-10T20:22:00.001-07:00

I have had a wonderful Mother's Day in Paradise. It started with my beautiful daughter (you all know she is Hawaiian by the way) calling me and waking me up. I guess she thought I would be up at 7:30 AM. After she woke us up we decided we should get up and get ready for the day! We had a delicious Mother's Day Brunch at the hotel full of many of my favorite foods (shrimp, fruit, whole pig, etc). After that my second born called to wish me happy Mother's Day. I am so blessed to have two amazing children. I am also fortunate to have my Mother and to have been able to talk with her today. She liked her Mother's Day present (we gave her a new family picture) and she even complemented me on losing weight (that's my Mom). Rob was able to have a brief conversation (she had company) with his Mom also .

So to all you Mother's out there HAPPY MOTHER'S Day. I will try and blog more about our trip later tonight (oh, sorry I forgot that it is night where most of you are). We are off to enjoy the sunshine and a little Hard Rock Cafe!

Just Another Day in Paradise!!!

2009-05-09T00:59:00.000-07:00

Yes my dear husband took me to our other home and the birth place of our daughter - Honolulu, Hawaii! Today has been a very relaxing day. We got up and went to Zippy's (a hot spot for the Hawaiians) for breakfast and then came back and went to the pool where we spent a good portion of the day - with me reading and Rob working on the computer (they have Wi-Fi in the pool area). Then this evening we went to the International Market Place (one of Jared's favorite places to shop) and did a little shopping and had dinner. After dinner we came back to the hotel and took a romantic walk on the beach (well if you call romantic Rob complaining about getting sand in his tennis shoes the whole time :) So until tomorrow.....Mahalo!

Where are we....

2009-05-07T22:58:00.001-07:00

...any guesses! The one thing I can tell you is that Rob made arrangements for a beautiful suite with an outstanding view. I have the most romantic husband in the world! The first person to guess where we are will get a surprise!!!!!! Happy guessing :)

New Adventure

2009-05-04T20:55:00.000-07:00

For the past two years our Bishop has not seen a need to give me a church calling - he has pretty much put me on a shelf and forgotten about me (even he agreed). So after alot of "asking" I finally gave up on having a ward calling and went out and found something for me to do myself. I am volunteering at the LDS Family Services Office 4 - 8 hours a week. I answer phones,input information on incoming clients, put together packets, pretty much anything they need me to do. The office I work with deals in adoptions, child abuse and marriage counseling. I have really needed something to boost me spiritually so I hope this does it. It is hard being forgotten by your own ward.

Happy Birthday Cassidy!!!!!

2009-04-30T19:55:00.000-07:00

Today was our wonderful daughter-in-laws birthday. We are so fortunate to have her in our family. We have known Cass since she and Jared were in the eighth grade. Brandy and I decided when Jared was on his mission that if he didn't marry Cass when he got home that he was going to be in big trouble with us because we loved her!!

And Jared gave Cass exactly what she wanted for her birthday - he received a job offer today! Jared received an offer from DWG and Associates. They are a general contractor for the government. He will be the Human Resource Assistant for the company and along with the job came a substantial increase in pay for this soon to be college grad. We are all so excited about Cassidy's wonderful birthday present!!!!!

First Birthday Party

2009-04-28T05:26:00.000-07:00

Saturday we were honored to attend the first birthday party for cute little Phoenix. The thing that makes me feel so old is that I have known his Mom since she was a little tyke herself in Georgia (I still feel awful about dropping those hot grits on your hand Kerra when you were little). There is nothing more adorable than a one year old blowing out his first candle (with the help of his Mom of course), opening his birthday presents (the bubble machine from Auntie Erin was the biggest hit) and hamming it up for the camera (he is going to be a heart breaker girls).
Happy first birthday Phoenix!!!!!

Phoenix is one loved little fella. Above are Aunt Erin, Mom, Phoenix, Dad (directly behind Phoenix), Uncle Jon, Uncle Jeremy.

FaMiLiEs ArE FoReVeR

2009-04-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

This past week my sister and brother-in-law have been here visiting from Alabama. My nephew (their son) graduated from Brigham Young University so they came out for his graduation. It has been so much fun having them visit - we have shopped, we have eaten, we have visited with extended family and friends, we have eaten, we had family pictures taken (thanks Jared Shupe), we have eaten (oh have I already mentioned that)! They left this morning and my house is way to quiet. I wish that we lived closer together because a sister is an awesome person to have around to play with, cry with and to feel loved by!

Last night we went to Tuscany's for a graduation celebratory dinner.

The studly men in our lives - Rob, Ben, Bennie, Jared, Dave, Ernie (the brother Rob never had)

And the beautiful women - Cassidy, June, Des, Tammy, Myrna (our blond sister), Brandy

Ramblings

2009-04-16T15:40:00.000-07:00

My ankle has been really hurting me the past few weeks so I made an appointment to see the physiatrist (a doctor that deals in skeleton/muscles/bones) this week. I told him I had decided that I wanted it amputated so I would no longer have pain but of course he did not think that was a good idea!! He gave me a cortisone shot which turned out to be a painful experience. My ankle has started to fuse itself together so he had a hard time getting the needle in the joint to insert the cortisone. He told me he would put me on Oxycontin or pain patches if I wanted but they are so addicting that I decided I would rather just stay with the Lortab and Percocete (I really feel like I am becoming a druggie - but numerous doctors have assured me that as long as you only take the medication when in pain you will not become addicted - I sure hope they are correct)! My only real option for pain relief is an ankle replacement but I am still to young to have that done (that is the only thing I am to young for - haha). I will continue to go ever four months for a cortisone shot.

My cute son is still looking for a job after being laid off from Larry H.Miller two and half weeks ago. As of today he has applied for 65 jobs. He has had several offers but they have been commission based jobs and he does not want that. If you hear of anything please let him know. After next week he will be officially done with all his classes at the University of Utah and will be the proud recipient of a Bachelors Degree in Mass Communications.

And my last rambling for the day is to say how lucky I am to have such an amazing family. Rob is truly the best husband a woman could ask for (he has been in Maine this week and I have missed him terribly). All I have to do is mention that I want something and he gets it for me (he even offered to go to the Dooney and Bourke Outlet in Freeport, Maine and get me a new purse this week - how many husbands would do that?). He is a great provider, a hard worker and the sexist man alive! And Brandy, Dave, Jared and Cassidy are unbelievable . They are always willing to help with any project we have going on (lately there has been alot), they are here for us when we are sick, they show us tons of love and they even still like taking trips with us (we are looking forward to our trip to Alabama with Brandy in July and our trip to Chicago with Jared and Cass in August). And in addition to these wonderful children we have our adopted kids the Selin's who are always here when we need help (thanks Chris for helping take down the fence on Saturday). So even with all the bad things going on in the world today our family is truly a blessed family. Last week we all went to the temple together (sorry you couldn't make it Chris) and setting in the celestial room surrounded by our cherished children we had the confirmation that all will be well, Jared will find a job, I will learn to deal with pain, Brandy and Dave will be parents and most of all that our family will be together forever. What more could you want out of life.

Easter

2009-04-13T07:51:00.000-07:00

Easter holds a lot of childhood memories for me. Easter was one of the few Sunday's when I was growing up that we would go to church (Mother's Day was the other Sunday that we went to church), I would always get a new Easter dress and shoes, the Easter Bunny would leave my Easter basket outside for me to find and we would have a big Easter dinner and Easter egg hunt (complete with the golden egg that contained money which I found three years in a row) with all my Daddy's extended family at a Community Center in Banks, Alabama. Easter is one of my favorite holidays and probably the holiday that I have the fondest memories of from my childhood. So even though our kids are married we still try to make Easter a special day in our family. This year we had 14 people join us for dinner (Ben and Des we are really going to miss you next year), we had an Easter egg hunt with candy filled eggs for the little tyke and regular candy bars for the big kids (you can't leave them out), the Easter bunny left baskets for everyone and of course a gathering at our home would not be complete without a sweaty game of basketball! It was an awesome day!

Before everyone arrived....

...after everyone arrived!!!!

Mrs. Easter Bunny!!

Brandy and Dave checking out what the Easter Bunny brought....

and Jared and Cass checking out their goodies!

Of course Dawson did not want to be left out.

Ben and Des after our Easter egg hunt!

Sorry there are no pictures of the Mr. Easter Bunny - he was busy taking pictures!!!

Boy's Night/Girl's Night

2009-04-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the night that Rob and I look forward to twice a year. It was General Priesthood Meeting (a meeting that our Church holds every six months for all men). Rob looks forward to spending the evening with Jared and Dave and I look forward to spending the evening with Brandy (Cassidy goes with her Mom and sisters). While the boys were at their meeting Brandy, Roslyn and I went to dinner, then to Carole's to help her with a little project and then home to work on our own project. (Last Priesthood Meeting Brandy was out of town for work and I really missed not having her to spend the evening with.) The boys, as usual, decided which restaurant they wanted to go to after their meeting and then attended Priesthood Meeting at the closest chapel to the restaurant. They will do anything to avoid the "after Priesthood lines" at the restaurants! Rob and I feel so blessed to have a son and son-in-law who honor their Priesthood and a daughter and daughter-in-law who are just totally awesome in all ways (yes we are prejudice and darn proud of it!).

HaPpY BiRthDaY DAvE

2009-03-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

Seven years ago (almost to the day) Brandy, her friend Kori and I went to lunch at Sweet Tomatoes. That little lunch date has changed our lives forever! While at lunch this handsome young man came up and asked for Brandy's phone number and after months of persistence on his part she finally agreed to go on a date with him. We are so grateful for this persistant young man and that he is now our awesome son-in-law. Happy 30th Birthday Dave (fondly known as Mr. Sweet Tomatoes)!! We love you!!!!!

One thing...

2009-03-27T15:36:00.000-07:00

...leads to another! About a month and half ago I decided I was ready to get rid of the Sunny Brook Farm Green that has graced our master bedroom and bathroom walls for the past five years. So after completing that project (which went really fast thanks to the kids help) my wonderful, perfectionist husband decided that he wanted to redo the guest bathroom. So for the past month each night and Saturday he has been working hard on this project (new tile, new hardware, new paint, etc,). Well then this morning he ask if he could take the van and when I ask why he informed me that he needed to stop at Home Depot on his way home from work and pick up some sheet rock. Of course I wanted to know what he needed sheet rock for! Now he has decided that there is a door that he wants to take out so after the bathroom is done he is starting in the guest bedroom removing a door. Will it ever end!!!!

P.S. HAPPY BIRTHDAY SARAH :)

Friends

2009-03-25T22:13:00.000-07:00

The past week I have had an intestinal infection and have been pretty much bed ridden. Yesterday I had to go and have another CT scan and when I came home I found this beautiful flower on my front porch with a sweet poem that my dear friend had written. It made me realize how lucky I am to have such amazing friends who truly care about me. This week I have had many friends call to see how I was feeling, a friend drove me to the ER, friends have called to see if they could bring meals in, a friend brought books in so I would have something to read, and a friend from work offer to cover my work schedule for me. I am so blessed to have each of these wonderful women in my life. I can't imagine life without friends.

Advantage

2009-03-17T18:46:00.000-07:00

I finally found an advantage to Rob being in the Bishopric. On Saturday Rob received a phone call from Jared and Cassidy's Bishop. Bishop Smith said that he was calling on behalf of the Stake President who was planning on issuing Jared a calling the next day. Since Jared had only been in the ward for a few months the Stake President wanted the Bishop to check with a member of Jared's former Bishopric to make sure he was worthy of the calling. Bishop Smith said he could think of no one better to contact than Jared's father since he was in the Bishopric. Bishop Smith went on to say that Jared was being called to the Elders Quorum Presidency and that it would be nice if Rob and I could be present the next day for his setting apart. So to the surprise of Jared and Cass, Rob and I showed up at their church on Sunday. And to make it even more special for Rob, Bishop Smith invited Rob to join in the setting apart of Jared. We are so proud of Jared, his worthiness and his desire to serve. We are equally as proud of Dave and his service as the Young Men's President, Brandy and her calling in the Young Women's Presidency and Cass and her work with the Young Single Adults. It is amazing the joy that children can bring into your life.

Etiquette

2009-02-27T20:32:00.000-08:00

When Rob was first diagnosed with diabetes it was a very sensitive subject for him. He became a "closet" diabetic. If I ever brought it up when we were with friends I would get a swift kick under the table (and those kicks hurt sometimes). Finally I convinced him that it was not something to be ashamed of and instead of being silent on the subject he should help educate people about diabetes and diabetics. So when I ran across a pamphlet that discussed diabetes etiquette I thought it would be a good topic to pass along to others so they would know how to treat a diabetic.

Diabetes Etiquette

1. DON'T offer unsolicited advice about my eating or other aspects of diabetes.
2. DO realize and appreciate that diabetes is hard work.
3. DON'T tell me horror stories about other people with diabetes you have heard about.
4. DO offer to join me in making healthy lifestyle changes.
5. DON'T look so horrified when I check my blood sugars or give myself an injection.
6. DO ask how you might be helpful.
7. DON'T offer thoughtless reassurances.
8. DO be supportive of my efforts for self-care.
9. DON'T peak at or comment on my blood glucose numbers without asking my first.
10. DO offer your love and encouragement.

Presenting .....Rob!

2009-02-22T16:17:00.000-08:00

(This is the picture Rob gave me to post with this blog. Yes, it is acutally him in his youth.)

Rob has been tagged by his big sister Eva. So being the good wife I am, I am making him sit down at my computer and answer the following questions (plus I want to know his answers). So here he his - my sweetheart!!

My eight favorite shows

1. The Unit

2. Life

3. The Mentalist

4. The Amazing Race

5. American Idol

6. Dirty Jobs

7. Myth Busters

8. Americas Funniest Videos

Eight things I did yesterday

1. Helped new neighbors move into their house

2. Installed lights over the kitchen sink

3. Installed a small flat screen TV in the bathroom for Tammy to watch while she soaks in the tub

4. Went shopping for and purchased a new chair for the living room

5. Hung pictures on the wall

6. Straightened up the yard

7. Purchased tile to install in the basement bathroom

8. Visited Brandy and Dave

Eight things I am looking forward to

1. Longer daylight hours

2. Summer

3. Surprising Tammy with our 30th anniversary trip

4. Visiting family in Alabama

5. An improved economy

6. Spending time with the kids

7. Visiting Israel

8. Spending eternity with Tammy

My eight favorite restaurants

1. Tepanyaki

2. Hard Rock Cafe

3. Morton's

4. Dragon Isle

5. Tuscany

6. Good Wood

7. Chili's
8. Zinn Bistro

Eight things on my wish list

1. Never disappoint Tammy

2. Be dog less (any takers)

3. Never be "tagged again"

4. Good health for all family members

5. Politicians that understand and vote on behalf of their constituents

6. Fast food restaurants with employees that understand what you ordered

7. Rain in the valleys and snow in the mountains

8. Increase my carbon footprint

Eight people I tag

I don't feel putting spray paint on people is a good thing, so I am skipping the tagging.

We have amazing.....

2009-02-20T06:12:00.000-08:00

kids! Last Saturday Jared was over and we mentioned to him that on Monday (President's Day) that Rob had the day off and that we were going to paint and do some remodeling in our master bedroom and bath. He volunteered his and Cassidy's service since they both also had the day off. Then on Sunday we were visiting with Brandy and mentioned our plans for the next day and she also volunteered to help us. So last Monday the troops all arrived and helped turn a several day project into a day project. Dave came after work and helped Rob hang mirrors, medicine cabinets, etc. And our sweet little adopted Mother/Grandmother wanted to make sure we kept our strength up so she brought Subway Sandwiches for lunch. That night Rob and I were discussing how blessed we are to have such a wonderful little family that is always so willing to help. We are grateful that Families Are Forever.

I have been Tagged

2009-02-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

Brandy tagged me with some "get to know you questions" - even though I think she knows me pretty darn well. Here is how it works. First - post the rules on your blog, Second - answer the six questions about yourself, Third - let each person you tag know by leaving a comment on their blog. So here goes.....

1. My eight favorite shows

The Today Show
American Idol
ER
Oprah
Life
The Mentalist
What Not To Wear
Jon and Kate Plus Eight

2. Eight things I did yesterday

Went to lunch with some friends
Went to Costco
Visited with Carole and Alma
Talked with Jared on the phone
Met my new neighbors
Watched American Idol with Aubrey
Bought a new Comforter from TJ Maxx
Started reading a new book

3. Eight things I am looking forward to

The surprise anniversary trip Rob has planned
Summer
Redoing my bedroom and bathroom
Becoming a TamTam
Having new neighbors
Seeing if my pick wins American Idol
Finishing the book I started
Going to Chicago in August

4. My eight favorite restaurants

Olive Garden
Chick Fil A
Chili's
Red Lobster
Carver's
Red Robin
Zinn Bistro
Cracker Barrel

5. Eight thinks on my wish list

Remodel my kitchen
BMW
Go to Israel
Lose weight
To be pain free
To be debt free
Happiness
A new bedroom set

6. Eight people I tag

Sonya
Kristin
Connie
Shannon
Darla
Kerra
Betty Ann
And who ever else wants to play along

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JARED

2009-02-13T21:52:00.000-08:00

Today is my little boys birthday. Happy 24th birthday my son, my son!!

Super Bowl Sunday

2009-02-10T07:24:00.000-08:00

For the past 10 years Super Bowl Sunday has meant party time for the Olsen's! And this year was no different. Dave and Brandy were kind enough to host the Super Bowl Party at their home. We had great food, great company and a really exciting game to watch.

Of course I don't think a Super Bowl is complete without a project for the girls to work on so here are some of the girls setting at the table working on a scrapbook project. A special thanks to Brandy, Connie, Cassidy, Sarah and Shannon for helping me with this project for Dorothy's kids.

I thought this was a cute picture of Jared and Michael's backs (they wanted to be close to the little smokies and chips).

This is what Dave did the last 10 minutes of the game - paced back and forth!

Chinese New Year

2009-02-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

If you have never experienced Chinese New Year you have missed out on a fun time. My friend owns a Chinese restaurant so each year she lets me know when her restaurant will be celebrating Chinese New Year (Chinese New Year is different each year - usually the end of January or first of February). This year we invited thirteen of our dearest friends and family to celebrate with us. The restaurant has two dragons that come and dances around amongst the tables. The legend is that if you feed the dragon a dollar bill you will have good luck for the coming year. Everyone at our table came with dollar bills in hand so we are all planning on having a great 2009.

Dawson was so cute feeding the dragon dollar bills. As long as his Mom had her arm around him he was fine but as soon as she moved it he reached for it - he needed that security!

Don't we have a handsome group of friends!!

The cute Chinese lady is Jennifer. The name of her restaurant is Dragon Isle and it is our favorite Chinese Restaurant in the Salt Lake Valley.

Sleep Glorious Sleep

2009-01-28T06:56:00.000-08:00

My body has always been the type to require a lot of sleep and if I don't get enough sleep I either get sick or get a migraine. I need at least 8 hours of sleep a night to function during the day, unlike my sweet husband who pre-diabetics could get by on 5 hours of sleep a night. Well the past month sleep has totally escaped me. I can be dead tired and go to bed at 10:00 PM and will be wide awake by 1:30 AM. I have gotten where I dread bedtime because I know that I will not be able to sleep. I have tried taking a warm bath before bed, lavender on my pillow, last night I even took two Tylenol PM before I went to bed and I was awake ALL night long. I would love to go to bed and be able to sleep for eight hours straight! Any suggestions?

In Memory

2009-01-27T20:22:00.000-08:00

In loving memory of my friend that always made me feel like I was the most special person in the world.

Dorothy Ann Carlin 1932 ~ 2009 Our Earthly Angel, Dorothy Ann Carlin, age 76, left us Friday morning, January 23, 2009. Born May 25, 1932 in Orem, Utah, a daughter of Eva Leath Batty and Glen Dewey Lockhart. Married Warren I. King; later divorced. Married the love of her life, Richard P. Carlin on April 21, 1965, and together raised their nine children. Dad passed away March 4, 2002. Mom was a faithful member of the First Congregational Church where, for many years, she and Dad served the youth and young-at-heart as Chefs of Camp Fellowship. Mom loved cooking, camping, entertaining family and friends, crafts, shopping, playing Bridge, coaching her daughters in girls' softball, and watching the Utah Jazz. But most of all, Mom loved her family. She was full of fun and mischief, passion for her children and grandchildren, love for friends, and a genuine joy of life. She is survived by children: Dennis (Cyndi) King, Kevin (Julie) King, Melanie Christiansen (Michael) Miller, Ken Carlin, Nora Oki, Tara (Brent) Bunkall, Cheryl McCormick and Sean King; 23 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Also, a sister, Bonnie Jean Sundeaus; sister-in-law, Betty Rae Lockhart; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents; her husband; brother, Glen B. Lockhart; sister, Lenore Zindel; son, Ricky Carlin; and son-in-law, Craig Christiansen. The family gratefully thanks the dedicated staff at CareSource, with heartfelt appreciation, to Laura and Vanessa for their tender and compassionate care of Mom, and to Nancy for her concern. "A whisper of an angel your words will be, the glory of an angel your light shall be, our new guardian angel you will be" Funeral services will be held Monday, 11 a.m., at First Congregational Church, 2150 South Foothill Drive. A viewing will be held Sunday, 6 - 8 p.m. at McDougal Funeral Home, 4330 S Redwood Road, and Monday at the church, 10 - 10:45 a.m. Interment, Valley View Memorial Park.

Just My Luck

2009-01-23T16:54:00.000-08:00

Today I had to go into work for a few hours. Barb, our nurse practitioner, looked at the boil on my face and mentioned that she didn't think it had gotten any better and that she wanted me to have Dr. Roberts look at. He took one look and said - you have MRSA (a staph infection that doesn't respond well to antibiotics). So after work off I went again to the pharmacy to pick up another prescription. I hope this works because I am getting tired of this!!

Oh happy day!!

2009-01-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

So Thursday morning I woke up with this big red swollen spot on my cheek. It was not a pimple (I definitely know what that feels like). By Saturday morning it had turned into a sore and Rob was ready to take me to the Emergency Room (no way was I going to the ER for a red spot on my cheek). So today when I went to work I had one of our doctors look at it and was informed that I had a boil which is a localized infection deep in the skin. She proceeded to tell me that left untreated it could turn into a staph infection or even worse MRSA - I must admit that did scare me just a little. So as soon as I got off work I headed to the pharmacy to fill the prescriptions that ended up costing me around $100.00 all for a red spot on my cheek. Oh happy days!!!!

My own personal Borg!

2009-01-15T15:53:00.000-08:00

I have the most amazing husband in the world. Five years ago my hunk a hunk of burning love got severe pancreatitis. As a result of the pancreatitis Rob became a diabetic. For the past several months Rob has not felt well - he was like the Energizer Bunny with his batteries run down. When he went to the doctor in December Dr. Roberts told him that his pancreas had totally shut down and strongly suggested that he go on a diabetic pump, which Rob was totally opposed to. Well after the past month when all Rob could physically do was get up, go to work, come home, go to bed (when your blood sugar is constantly going up and down it makes you really sick and drains you of all energy) he decided it was time to take the plunge. He is now the proud owner of a diabetic pump, the most sophisticated pump on the market. So now not only do I have an amazing husband, I have a husband that is a Borg - half man, half machine - and he is sexier than ever to me!!