The Ellsworth's

Pretend Headboard

2012-01-23T15:17:00.000-08:00

So Jon and I have never bought bedroom furniture and I keep begging and begging. So instead of trying to beg, I used a few odds and ends I already had and made a wall hanging instead. It turned out great and works for now until we move again!! All you need is fabric, hot glue gun, and styrofoam. Super easy and SUPER cheap! My kind of decoration/craft.

Currently

2012-01-09T12:03:00.000-08:00

Currently
By: Ashlyn

Listening- Anything by Adele (I love her!)

Loving- Chocolate.. of course!

Thinking- That I need to go work out tonight, but instead I think I will go meet my hubby for dinner! :)

Wanting- A new pair of UGG boots to keep me warm in this winter cold!

Needing- A break already from school....oops wasn't it just Christmas break?

Go ahead and copy and paste into your BLOG and tell us your CURRENT thoughts. Love ya!

A New Year....A New Blog Post

2011-12-30T20:53:00.000-08:00

So I was in Arizona and I had 3 people ask me why I haven't updated my BLOG in SOOOOOOO long. Since March my life has been so busy. With a new church calling as Young Women president, added responsibilities at school, and trying to find time to be with Jon... my life has flown by and there are many things that I have neglected. One being my blog. So now with the New Year happing in one day, I have made a goal to get back to blogging. So hope you are all ready to hear more from the Ellsworth's, because the Ellsworth's are back!!

What Every Teacher Wants!

2011-03-15T09:45:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone I want let everyone know some of my pals from the teaching world have an AMAZING website with tons of fantastic ideas for every grade level. Head on over to their site and enjoy their creativity!!

My Holiday Snob Friends

2011-03-13T15:12:00.000-07:00

I have a couple of girlfriends from my ward here in Colorado who have started an ADDICTIVE blog! They started hosting a craft night each month where they choose a craft and invite a few fellow crafters and we get together and craft and talk! I have so much fun with these girls and now that they have a blog, I wanted to share their "snobby" ways! In fact just in a few weeks I have won two items for St. Patrick's Day from their blog. Dottie and Glitta are the cutest and snazzy girls on the planet. Please get addicted to their blog and you too will become your own Holiday Snob!!! The link to their blog is http://www.holidaysnobs.blogspot.com/

They do cute shoe glam for the holidays. I won these shamrocks and can't wait to show them off this week to my 1st graders!!

I was the lucky winner of this fun banner. When I found out I won, I had to put my purse down cause I was heading to Hobby Lobby to buy the stuff to make it. Now I don't have to!

I'm famous now!

2011-03-10T12:25:00.001-08:00

You're A Special Little Spirit

2011-03-06T18:46:00.000-08:00

A young lady who ended losing one of her precious babies to anencephaly like Jon and I's baby had, sent me this beautiful poem and I needed to share this with you all. It touched my heart and I know even if you haven't lost a child you will still find meaning in this.

You're A Special Little Spirit

"You're a Special Little Spirit" the all great Master said,
As he gently caressed the curly blond hair of the Little Spirit's head.
"You need to go to Earth to spend some time, you know,
A place I send most Spirits to be tested, to learn, to grow."
The Little Spirit, in sadness, slowly bowed her head,
And from her eye a tear did steal and down her cheek it shed.
"Don't you fret now little one, I won't let you stay too long,
I'll bring you back to help me here,
You'll hardly know you've been gone.
You're my choicest Little Spirit, you're the apple of my eye."
And he wiped the tear and gently kissed
His Little Spirit goodbye.

"I'm back," the Little Spirit whispered
as she climbed onto her Master's knee,
And the Master said,
"I told you, you would not be long away from me."
And then, the Lord, He noticed still
another tear welled in her eye.
"Why are you so sad, Little Spirit,
Whatever should make you cry?"
"I'm glad I'm back," the Spirit said,
"but Master you must surely know,
When your angel came to get me, I didn't want to go.
I know you said you needed me
and that I'd be gone the shortest while,
But Lord, couldn't I have had a little loner earthly trial?"

The Master let the Little Spirit slip down from His knee,
He firmly took the little hand and said, "Come walk with me."
The Little Spirit and her Lord walked slowly hand in hand,
As the Master explained Her special part
in the great and marvelous plan.
"Now Lord, I don't mean to argue,
I understand you need me home.
But I left in such a hurry,
I left everyone hurting and so alone.
I didn't let my earthly parents know
how much I loved them so
I was much too small to tell them,
Lord, how will they ever know?
They feel they've been cheated, and in a way so do I.
Not getting to share any more than we did,
how can I ever tell them why?"

"Little Spirit, I know your heart is heavy
with the message you need to share.
But you need not worry anymore,
I'll watch over your loved ones there.
I'll send them loving comfort as a strong and helping hand.
I'll content and give peace to their aching hearts,
so they will understand.
The Little Spirit looked up at her Master and said
"Thank you for explaining it to me,
And could you please tell them I'm safe and happy
and that someday they'll be here with me."
"Yes." said the Lord with a smile and a nod,
"I'll tell them all that I can."

Then the others came to see the Little Spirit,
as the Lord let go of her hand.
He said, "I'll tell them you're pure, as pure as Heaven's Gold,
that I needed the warmth of your perfect soul
to keep Heaven from getting cold."

Ugly to Fabulous

2011-02-05T08:13:00.000-08:00

So since we moved to Denver we had this old chair that went with a previous kitchen table we once had. We used this chair by our desk. Well the leg kept breaking and we would glue and nail it back but it kept happening. We didn't want to go buy a new chair and thats when we came across an UGLY old natural wood chair with marker writing all over it sitting by our dumpster outside our apartment. When no one was looking we took it and began thinking what we could do with it. Well as you can see we turned it into quite the fabulous chair. I love it!!!
BEFORE

(And this wasn't the exact chair because we forgot to take a picture before we fab it out. So I found one that was close but it still doesn't do it justice)

AFTER

Cheers for 2011

2011-01-01T18:14:00.000-08:00

2010 was a crazy year for Jon and I. As we celebrated New Years Eve last night and brought in the new year we remembered all the heartache, loneliness, and sadness we experienced. Without a doubt 2010 was our hardest year yet. We started out 2010 being seperated by 600 miles while Jon started our Denver adventure. I had to stay in Arizona to finish out my teaching contract. It was so hard being away from Jon for 5 months. I will NEVER do that again! We then got together in the summer and found out that we were expecting our first baby. We were delighted by the surprising news and couldn't wait for February 18th, 2011 to come because thats when we were going to meet our little girl! Things took a turn for the worst in August and after being 13 weeks pregnant I had to end the short journey I had with our little girl. That was the hardest thing we have done. But it has made us grow so close and realize the wonderful things we have. We are grateful to have a little girl waiting for us in heaven and know she has touched our hearts in ways that we can't even explain.

2010 wasn't a complete downer. We had highlights as well. Jon started graduate school at University of Colorado Denver studying healthcare administration and accounting. We moved to a great place and have made wonderful friends in Denver. I found a teaching job and count my many blessings for that because as many of you know teaching jobs are not being found in this economy. So we can't say nothing great happened this past year. But we do know that 2011 will bring us joy and we both have a good feeling about this great new year that is upon us. We look forward to hopefully getting another opportunity to have another baby and for the chance to love that boy or girl with all that we have. We will find out where Jon will do his residency in 2012 so we can plan our future. We also plan on travelling a bit to see family and friends. We also know that 2011 will bring surprises and we can't wait to see what it has in store for us. So here is to 2011and the wonderful year it will be for us and for all of you! Cheers!!

Christmas Greetings from the Ellsworth's

2010-12-24T10:57:00.000-08:00

Surprise!!

2010-12-18T18:35:00.000-08:00

Last week Jon paid a visit to my school and brought cookies for my class. I thought nothing of it and then he started playing hangman with my class. The other 1st grade class, my principal, and my aide all came in. I was very curious to why they were also visiting. Then Jon put on the board a hangman message for me. He told the class that only I could play. So I started guessing letters and then as I figured it out I was speechless I looked around feeling nervous and sweaty and read the message out loud, "Mrs. Ellsworth, surprise you are going to Phoenix tonight!" I was so excited. My kids were confused and all they could say was how good I was at Hangman! :)

So we jumped on the flight and as soon as we landed the birthday partying didn't end until we flew home that Sunday. He got all my great friends together Friday night at Cafe Rio and surprised me with a party. Great friends, and good food! Then I got to go birthday shopping with my mom. Good thing my mom had an extra suitcase for me to take home. Then we also got to meet some new babies! We got to meet our niece Haylee Jo who is a month old and then Mason Heal. We are so excited for both our family and friends with new bundles of joys. Of course we got to spend some good time with our close friends the Romneys and play with their adorable one year old twin girls. They made us laugh and also made it hard for us to leave. But of course the time came that we had to leave but I was so grateful to spend the weekend with friends and family. Jon did it again this year and made my birthday really special.

He had also planned to take me to the Melting Pot on my actual birthday Dec. 14th but unfortunately while at school that day I started feeling really sick. So I came home and went straight to bed and we rescheduled for a few days later hoping I would feel better. It didn't go away but we still went anyway and enjoyed our time. But I'm home all this weekend laying low and trying to kick this crud I have! Yuck! Bad cough, sore throat, tired, everything! But I want to say thank you to my amazing Jon for planning an incredible birthday. Everything was great and Im thankful I got sick after it all was done! :) It was a great 27th birthday and will hope that my 27th year is full of birthday wishes for a better year than last!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-24T17:45:00.001-08:00

I have so many things to be grateful for and I thought in the spirit of the season I would mention those things that are most important to me and that I am indeed thankful for.

*I'm thankful for my loving parents. They both have been a huge inspiration to me and have always been there when I needed them most. Randy and Rebecca you are the best!

*I'm thankful to be a teacher. There is no other career where you can make such a huge impact in children's lives and have fun while doing it. I love what I do!

*I'm thankful the gospel in my life. I'm grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

*I'm thankful for my great health and to be able to do so many things.

* I'm thankful for friends. I have some of the best friends in the world and I am lucky to have them each in my life!

* I'm thankful for 6 beautiful and talented nieces and nephews. I love you Logan, Sydnee, Kolton, Skylen, Zander, and my newest niece Haylee Jo!

* I'm thankful to have a guardian angel watching over me in heaven. I love you baby girl!

*I'm thankful for two amazing sisters. You have been there for me when I have needed you the most and have been examples to follow. I'm proud to be your baby sister.

*And, most importantly I'm thankful for my wonderful husband Jon. You are my everything. You have been by my side through thick and thin. We have grown so close these last few months and I'm so proud to be lucky enough to have such an amazing companion for all eternity. I love you!

What's going on?

2010-11-21T17:22:00.000-08:00

So we have been pretty busy here in Colorado and I have been HORRIBLE with updating my blog. Here is a peek at our lives the last few months.

1. Back in October my family came out to celebrate my Mom's 60th birthday. We had a great time at a million dollar cabin in Breckinridge.

2. They added to my Girls Camp Director calling in Young Women to now I'm a YW advisor over special events including girls camp, YW in Excellence, and New Beginnings.

3. We dressed up as cowboy/farmers for Halloween. Actually I'm not quite sure what it was that we were!

4. I received a $1,000 teaching grant to buy a document camera and projector for my classroom.

5. My two LARGE ovarian cysts have disappeared into thin air! :)

6. My vitamin levels including my folic acid (which was the big one from our problem in August) is where it should be!

7. We can start trying for a baby again! :)

8. I finally got through Young Women in Excellence planning and we conquered it last week with a wonderful spiritual evening for both the girls and their parents. I'm so glad its over though!

9. I became an aunt to another beautiful baby girl. Haylee Jo Ellsworth was born last week. It's Jon's side of the family first grandchild. Congrats Jake and Kara.

10. My first graders did a great job with their Thanksgiving play. Glad that is over too! :)

11. I started putting up my Christmas decorations yesterday. I love this time of year and even though we are in an itty bitty apartment I still managed to make it look great!

12. I'm looking forward to 5 days off this week!!

13. My parents are coming out for Christmas and I CAN'T WAIT to see them. I've been missing my Arizona friends and family!

14. And wow I made it through a hole list without mentioning Jon's life. He is doing great too! He is a trooper I tell you putting up with me all the time! :)

In October We Remember Those Gone Too Soon

2010-10-12T18:30:00.000-07:00

Today I read a status of a friend of mine that stated that "In October we remember all babies born sleeping or whom we have carried, but never met or those we have held, but could not take home or the ones that came home, but didn't stay."= I quickly posted it to my facebook and sat at my computer chair and just sat in tears as I prayed to my Heavenly Father to let my baby girl know that I miss her so much. Having her be a part of my husband and I's lives has changed us so drastically. We appreciate the littlest of things now, and we cling to each other more than ever because of her influence. Its been two months since our little girl returned back to heaven. Our lives are so different. Now I think twice when people ask, "Do you have any kids?" or "When are you guys going to start a family?" We have started our eternal family that will be together forever because of the plan of salvation. I am a mother even though I cannot hold and take care of my little one right now. The Savior is doing that for me until I can do it for the first time when we meet.

When I was pregnant back in July, my doctor said we would find out the sex of the baby near the first of October. Jon said we had to wait till his birthday on October 12th (which is today) because that would be the best present he could ask for. WEll things changed but he still has te best present he could ask for even though she isn't here to wish him happy birthday herself. I love you sweet baby girl! And for those of you reading this post please remember those friends or family members or even yourself who had a baby who was gone too soon!

We are still alive!

2010-09-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

After a hell of a month of August (and yes I will use that terminology because it really was the worst month of mine and Jon's entire life) we have made it to a new month. September has already brought us better days and we are thankful for that. School has kept Jon and I very busy. Jon goes to night school Monday-Wednesday and we never see each other because he leaves before I get home from work and im in bed snoozing before he returns. We sometimes have Thursdays together. However lately it seems like I have had school functions or Jon has had dinners and study groups on that day. So we love our weekends because we actually get to enjoy each other's company. I've been getting used to the 1st graders. Its amazing the difference between 1st and 2nd grade. I have learned to have more patience and enjoy puppets by teaching these 6 year olds! We have teetered on the decision to buy a new car and trade in one of the Ellsworth's mobiles. We will have to buy used but are wanting a SUV that would be a good snow car. Especially since my school is out there! We've looked at 4-runners, highlanders, grand cherokees, hyundai santa fe, and the lexus rx300. We don't know yet which to buy and who knows if we even will. You know how men are... One moment they want to do something and the next it isn't a good idea. I will continue to keep my fingers crossed though. As far as the baby issue goes. Many have asked when can we start trying again? Well, my OB and my High Risk OBGYN want me to wait 2-3 months because I need to get the extra doses of folic acid into my system to help with the neuro tube defect of anencephaly that our little girl had. So we will hope that we will have a healthy baby boy or girl someday soon!

Gone Too Soon

2010-08-09T17:07:00.000-07:00

“I will not leave you comfortless. … Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:18, 27.)

Our little angel was sent back to it's heavenly home early this morning after 12 weeks being with me. Words cannot express the feelings and emotions that Jon and I have had during this past weekend. It all started as a routine 12 week doctor visit to my ObGYN. She had found two right cysts on my ovaries during the 1st visit and she had ordered us to go and get an additional ultrasound from the radiology department Thursday evening. We followed what she said because we wanted to make sure the cysts weren't growing bigger and going to hurt me or the baby. While getting the ultrasound, Jon and I new something wasn't right but we continued to pray that everything would be okay. We were told to go home and that our doctor would call Friday morning with the results of the ultrasound to determine if the cysts had grown. Friday morning we received a call from the doctor and she mentioned that the cysts were now a minor issue. Now she was concerned because the ultrasound was showing either water on the brain or an undeveloped brain/skull from a condition called anencephaly. We were then sent to a high risk OB who would do another ultrasound to determine if in fact those were the case. While in that doctors office Friday afternoon we then found out our precious baby had in fact an undeveloped brain or what is called anencephaly. We both cried right there in the doctors office because we didn't know what to think or what was going to happen then. The doctor walked us through what the condition was and informed us that even if the baby continued to grow the brain wouldn't develop fully and therefore would die in the next few months. We had no other choice for my health or the baby's but to schedule a D & C to terminate the pregnancy at 12 1/2 weeks. After a weekend of heartbreak, anger, sadness, tears, frustration, prayers, and blessings we returned the precious angel to heaven and we felt much better after surgery today. While in recovery I felt like I had this weight lifted off my shoulders. Like a weekend of pain was now gone and I knew then that our angel was now looking down on us as a guardian angel. I'm so thankful for the knowledge of the plan of salvation. Jon and I know that we will see our first born baby one day in the celestial kingdom and our entire family will be together forever. So, until we meet again Little Angel remember your Mommy and Daddy love you so much and are thankful to have you!

Guess what?

2010-07-27T15:16:00.001-07:00

Yes it's true this time that the Ellsworth's are expecting a new addition to their little family! We are so excited for this bundle of joy and can hardly wait until February. After trying for a year, and nothing happening it was to my surprise when I tested positive. Everything looks great. They did find two larger cysts on my right ovary that they are watching. I have had the usual morning sickness. It was really bad at first but after learning how to handle it, and making sure I was ALWAYS eating, things got better! I'm starting to feel much better now that I'm in my 10th week. I know it will get better from here on out. Now I just can't wait to see if its a Baby Boy Ellsworth or Baby Girl Ellsworth. I think its a boy, and Jon thinks its a girl. Guess we will see in October!

Feeling Refreshed

2010-06-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted anything since my move to the Mile High City. So, I thought I would do one now and update you on all my new things going on in life besides living in a new state. Colorado is absolutely beautiful. The weather couldn't be anymore beautiful. Its sunny and nice during the day and we get these killer thunderstorms with tornado warnings at night. It's be so great to be with Jon again. I thought it would take time getting use to things again, but it has naturally been easy and wonderful to have my husband again! We found a brand new apartment right at the border of Parker and Aurora. So its in a great location and the best part is I can walk to Target. That is bad for Jon though lol! I went out to my school which is in Elizabeth and got keys and started dejunking my classroom. The room is great and even has windows. Which is a huge thing for me cause schools in Arizona don't have windows and they feel like jails! It will be a nice school. Different but I think it will be good. I've gotten to spend time with my oldest sister Erika and her family. It's great living close to them cause I haven't lived in the same state as Erika for like 15 years. So it's nice to have her and my two nieces and nephew nearby! I've gotten back into my running and eating nothing mode (well not nothing but I'm not eating sugar, fatty fried foods, and limited carbs). I feel great and want to get back into the shape I was in February when I did this. I also have a goal to finish the Book of Mormon by the time I go visit my family and friends in Salt Lake. Thats one month to read the entire book of mormon. 17 pages a day. So far so good. Well as you can see Denver is a great new start for Jon and I. We are refreshing our lives and loving the Mile High City!

The Best Job Ever

2010-05-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

What other job will you work everyday with children and make differences in a couple dozen children's lives a year? What other job will you make such a close bond with other teammates and staff members? What other job do you get to feel appreciated by parents and family members of those you teach? Only a teacher can appreciate these great things every single day.

I have had the best 4 years as a teacher at 3 wonderful schools. I have met the most amazing people along my journey. I have made a very special place for all the 99 kids that I have taught in 2nd and 4th grade. My teaching began as a whirlwind. I graduated college and got married a month later. A month after that I started teaching for my very first year! That year was great but it was blurred because I was trying to stay above water. I was getting used to married life and teacher life all at the same time. I then moved to Arizona and began teaching 2nd grade at Brinton Elementary. I was able to stay there for the longest stretch of my years of teaching so far. A big two years! WOW! I learned so much from those teachers I worked with. I also made some great friends that I will keep for the rest of my life. I think I grew the most during those two years and I developed into a true teacher during my stay there. Last year against my wishes I was moved to Hale Elementary. I was moved due to lower enrollment at Brinton and somebody had to go. Unfortunately I had the least experience and I was pushed out. I luckily had kept in touch with an amazing woman name Sue who wanted me to come work with her two years prior but the path didnt lead me there for some reason. But last year it did lead me to Hale to work with Sue and her amazing staff. I made lifelong friends with the people I worked with. I connected with my kids more than I had before. I fell in love with the close knit community and the parents that served in my classroom. I fell absolutely in love with the hidden diamond in the desert that Sue Marshall the principal calls it. Nobody really knows where Hale is but those that do, know that it is the greatest school on Earth! So even though I went there not wanting to, I now know that there was a reason because it was the best year of teaching I've had.

I have had the two most emotional days as I said goodbye to my 24 amazing students, gave farwells to my amazing teammates and principal whom I love dearly, and closed the door to a classroom that I called home for the last year! I will miss Hale so much and those that have touched my life. I am excited for my journey to Colorado and know that no matter where I am teaching, it doesn't matter because I have the best job ever because no matter the school or place, I get to meet wonderful teachers and do the thing I love most... teach precious angels!

Girlfriends are priceless

2010-05-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what it would be like without the best girlfriends in the world? I tend not to think of that because without my friends I would be lost and without everything. My friends and family are my everything. When I moved to Arizona I moved into a small ward with the greatest group of girls who were so inviting and welcoming from day one. I remember meeting Casslyn, Nicole, Celeste, Amber, Brooke, Scarlett, Lindsay, Shannon, and many others. These girls were the most talented girls I had ever met. They did everything and many had kids in addition to everything they did perfectly. I found my spot with the Fairway Groves crew and then one Sunday a new girl moved into the ward. I was immediately connected to Colleen and since that day I met her we were best of friends. Colleen is one of the most amazing women I have ever met! She does everything and does everything well! When she wants something she goes and gets it. I think I grew close to Colleen because our husbands got along so well! Many times while with the Heals we would get laughing because me and Colleen's husband Dallas were just alike and would poke fun of everyone and then Colleen and my hubby Jon were more quieter and naive! We have had good times with the Heals and we will forever call them friends and hope to see them often while in Arizona or when they move to Washington.

After living in Mesa, we bought our house a few years ago in Gilbert. We moved into another great ward where everyone again was very welcoming. I didn't find my place in this ward as easy but it happened eventually. I met another great group of women including; Chelsi, Sarah, Sherrie, Jessica, Lindsay, Amy, Tatum, Becky, Andrea, and many others. These girls were so much fun! We hung out often and did some great Meadowview girls night outs! Then while serving with our spouses in primary a few of us girls got close. I met another incredible friend Brittani and from then on I knew I had met one of my best friends that I will have forever. I haven't had a friend who I am more like than that girl. We laugh and have so many things in common from our diet coke addiction, costa vida cravings, to our skipping church problems :) Britt is such a great girl and an amazing mom. I have watched her while spending these first few months with her beautiful twins and she is an incredible mother. I know we will keep in touch with Brittani and Brandon. Hopefully we can move back to Arizona so we can be close neighbors again!

There are friends that you have had since grade school. Serena, Emily, Amorette, Julienne, Chloe, Erin, and Amy will always be my closest friends. I love and honor these girls and I love that we have been through it all together. We went from little barbie doll lovers, to geeky movie makers, then end as team ugly members! I love you girls too and I will forever call you my best friends forever!

My sisters are also my closest friends. These two girls know everything about me and know every secret I have. Tiffany and Erika are so great and I look up to both of them so much. I feel honored to call them my sisters. We have always gotten along and the older we get the closer we become. No matter if I live close or far away from them I know I can count on them to listen and to help me when I'm in need.

Friendship is one thing that I believe everyone needs in this world. Friends make you wake up in the morning. Friends help bring a smile to your face. Friends are those people closest to us that we can tell anything to. Friends are the people we want to be with! I love my friends and I will forever consider each of you my dearest and loving friends!

My Dream Home

2010-04-22T19:35:00.001-07:00

Since I am no longer living in my house, I often times miss decorating my own space. Everyone has a dream house and hopes that one day they will get that home in the future!

My dream kitchen would be a place where the family gathers and hangs out together. It must be open to the rest of the house. It will be near a HUGE great room.

I want a bedroom one day that has HUGE windows that look out on a bunch land!

and a place to relax and unwind.

One Day I will have a precious daughter to doll up a cute nursery for. I just love girly girl things. I cant wait!

Look what I found inside my Easter basket!

2010-04-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

So the Wednesday before Easter I was fast asleep getting my rest for the busy field trip the next morning when at midnight I heard, "Ash.... Wake up!" I kept saying in my sleep, "What? WHAT? What do you want?" Much to my surprise my husband was standing next to my bed trying to surprise me. I wasn't waking up to easily and then finally I woke up and saw someone standing there. I was still partly asleep because I didn't yell and freak out because some strange man was in my bedroom. I sat there asking, "What is going on?" Finally when I realized it was Jon my response was, "Get over here and let me touch you to make sure I'm not dreaming!" Nope, I wasn't dreaming and my husband was there before my eyes. I then yelled and started jumping up and down! Jon came to surprise me Easter weekend and it was the best weekend ever. Jon visited family and friends Thursday while I was at school. Friday I took the day off and hung out with Jon and we shopped around San Tan Mall, I got a pedicure, and then we met our good friends Brittani and Brandon for some dinner at Chillis and baby time (as Jon calls it) holding their adorable twin girls. Then Saturday we watched conference and had a BBQ at his grandparents. Jon joined the guys in his family for priesthood, while me and my sister-in-law Kara did some shopping and ate yummy Cafe Rio. Then Sunday we laid low, watch conference with Jon's family then came to my parents and celebrated Easter with my parents and sister's family. It was a great Easter and like I said it was the best Easter surprise I could've been given!

A Mile High Spring Break

2010-03-20T16:28:00.001-07:00

Last week I spent my Spring Break in Denver visiting my long distance hubby. We had such a blast being lazy TOGETHER. Together is the keyword because since we see each other once a month we don't care what we do, all we care about is being together. It was an amazing week. We didn't do too much but we had a blast laughing TOGETHER! Our week included sleeping in, becoming pros at Tony Hawk Pro Skater, and eating out and shopping tons! I love Jon so much and it has been so hard being apart for these 6 months but I am SOOOO excited to move to Colorado. That place is beautiful and I can't wait to start our next chapter in our life.

Okay so Jon is renting this 400 square feet ghetto apartment and I couldn't resist showing off his bachelor pad. He trully is living it up at "Hella Terra" (its called Bella Terra but that's what Jon calls home). What do you expect for 400 dollars a month? Right?

This is the lovely kitchen. I can basically reach across the entire length of the kitchen.
The security in this place is top notch!

This is the entire apartment. He has room for a full size bed, small desk, tv stand, and loveseat sofa. I am embarrassed with how messy he is without his wife picking up after him. (Excuse the towels laying out to dry all over in the picture)

Again where is that maid that does his cleaning and laundry? Oh yeah she is still in Arizona. :)

Basically there is no room for me in Hella Terra. We better hope and pray we find a better place and a good job for me so we can move out of that hole!

Having some fun in the bachelor pad's bathroom. Again where is that maid fairy to clean his messy place?

Baby Ellsworth

2010-03-02T19:04:00.000-08:00

And you are wondering why Jon and I haven't had kids yet? This is the reason!

PS. I bet my post title made lots of you curious thinking I was pregnant with Baby Ellsworth. Not yet!!!

2nd Honeymoon

2010-02-17T19:38:00.000-08:00

So this past weekend I was able to go visit the love of my life in Denver. It has been the longest 6 weeks of my life without Jon. We had so much fun together and just cherished every moment we had. He planned the entire weekend from shopping, exploring downtown Denver, to dinner at Rodizio Grill, breakfast, and lunches, seeing my sister and family,riding the lightrail everywhere, to even taking me to a movie (for those of you who know Jon, he hates going to the movie. So it was big of him to take me to Valentine's Day). It was the best weekend and I didnt want it to end. I can't even explain what this long distance phase we are going through has done for our relationship. It is the hardest thing to go through and I would never have anyone go through the same thing. However, it has made our relationship so much stronger and you realize just how important your love in your life really is. You appreciate each other and the things you do together even more than before. I love you sweetheart and there's only 23 more days till I see you again!! I can't wait!

Gone and Single

2010-01-17T18:12:00.000-08:00

So it has been a week since Jon moved to Denver and it has been so hard. The first few days I sobbed and sobbed. I told Jon when we decided to do this that I would be so tough and it would be easy. I thought he would be the one having the hard time, but I was totally wrong. I guess once your love is gone you realize really how much you love them. It's been quite an adjustment to not have him around all the time. Our relationship now consists of a few phonecalls each day talking about what we did today, and monthly visits back and forth. It will be rough but I know we will get through it. Jon has been very positive through it all. He has been the tough one. The first day or two I thought he was going to break down but he did so good and he continues to have such a positive attitude. Im thankful for that cause it helps me move on and push forward. I'm also thankful for my wonderful family and friends who have helped Jon and I through this. My sister Erika and her family who live in Denver have taken Jon under their wings and have entertained him and taken good care of him. My great parents have also taken good care of me. They have been great hosts and I thank them for letting me live with them for the next 5 months! My friends have been the BEST through it all. They all call and invite me to do things even if that means being the third wheel with their husbands and families (Thanks Britt!!) I love my friends and family and I'm thankful to have you all. So it will be a long 5 months but because of them and a great husband to look forward to seeing again soon, I will get through it!

I HATE moving!!!

2009-12-29T14:58:00.000-08:00

You know there are not many things in life that I hate....except moving! Jon and I have been married not even 4 years and we have moved every year atleast one time. You would think it would get old! Plus, these moves aren't easy moves since they seem to be moving farther and farther away. We will now have lived in 3 different states in our 3 1/2 years of marriage! I thought I would vent and take a break because while venturing out on my 4th trip to Home Depot to get MORE moving boxes, the cashier asked if I was moving and I answered, "Yes..." with a moan and she so perky said, "Oh moving is soooo much fun. How exciting!" I rolled my eyes and as I pushed my basket to my car in the parking lot I mumbled to myself, "So much fun my ____ (insert a bad word here). Who in the right mind thinks moving is fun?"
BEFORE

AFTER

Better late than never

2009-12-17T17:36:00.001-08:00

I have been so busy with packing and the thought of being out of this house in 2 weeks has nearly put me over the edge. So, I never got Christmas cards out to everyone and I promise to do it next year. So please enjoy this and hope you all have a very Merry Christmas! We love you all!

26 Candles

2009-12-15T16:17:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to ME! Yes, on Monday I celebrated my 26th birthday and it was a great one. Actually it was the BEST birthday ever! Jon decided to go all out this year. A few months back Jon started talking about this HUGE surprise that he had planned for my birthday. Those of you who know Jon, know that it is hard to believe him sometime or to take him serious. So I shrugged it off and didn't stew on it too much. As it got closer Jon kept talking about this HUGE surprise and he starting telling me clues. He said it was going to TOP all birthdays and I would probably cry when I found out what it was. I began weighing all the possibilities. Was it a vacation somewhere? A new puppy? A really fancy pair of shoes? Were we going sky diving? Was I getting a new car? He actually made me think it was each of these somehow. Well a week before my birthday Jon had time off from work. He stated that he really didn't plan anything and that he probably should start working on something. This is SOOOOO typical Jon. So then I was kinda bummed out cause I was looking forward to my HUGE surprise. But now there wasn't going to be one. Thursday came before my birthday and I came home from work. Jon wasn't home and the house was spic and span. That brought a smile to my face but I was still sad. At 6:00 p.m. there was a knock on my door. I heard Jon outside saying LET ME IN! I walked to the door saying, "SHUT UP I'M COMING MR. IMPATIENT!" much to my surprise when I opened the door Jon was standing outside along with my best friend Emily and her little boy Christopher. Jon had arranged for her and her baby to come for the weekend to celebrate all the way from Utah! I WAS SO EXCITED. I first stood there in amazement not saying anything but then I screamed and jumped up and hugged her. I couldn't believe it. So yes we were able to spend time shopping, watching movies, trying out yummy restaurants and just catching up since we hadn't seen each other in awhile. I thought Jon was done with his surprises but then Friday came. He had been spending time with his cousin who is in the hospital and he called to tell me he wanted to meet for dinner at Red Robin. He was craving and whiskey river hamburger. Emily and I got ready and headed out to meet him at 6:45. Well we were running late like many girls do when Jon called me freaking out cause I was 10 minutes late. I kept saying, "Calm down... we will be there shortly." When we got there I realized why he wanted me to be on time because Jon and about 20 of my friends were hanging out waiting for me! They all surprised me for my birthday! I stood there again amazed with nothing to say, except, "Emily why did you let me come to my own birthday party looking like this?" I had even done my hair for the day and wasn't dressed up like I wanted to be for my own party. Oh well we had tons of fun anyway!!

The entire birthday weekend was fabulous. My boy Jon is so amazing! I want him to know how much I love him and am so thankful for what he did to make my 26th birthday so special. Thanks to Emily as well for coming all the way out to hang with me! I had tons of fun girl! Thanks also to my friend Colleen who helped Jon with the surprise party at Red Robin. You rock!

Where has the time gone?

2009-12-03T16:47:00.000-08:00

Wow now that it has been almost a month since my last post, I thought I should atleast let everyone know we are alive and doing well! We have been crazy busy and it isn't going to get better... in fact the craziness is going to get worse for the next little while. So what have the Ellsworth's been up to? Well we had my family in town over Thanksgiving to surprise my Dad for his 60th birthday. We had a huge party for him, we had family pictures taken, and we ate two Thanksgiving dinners. Don't worry we manage to get some pre-christmas shopping done too! Now that Thanksgiving has passed we are now moving right along with the Christmas season. This year Christmas is a little different for Jon and I. This is the first Christmas that I didn't pull out my 15 boxes of Christmas decorations. There is no wonderful gingerbread tree to stare at. There is no amazing Christmas snow village to awe at, and there are no wonderful garlands hanging anywhere! Instead they all sit in the boxes stacked high in the garage awaiting the day in just a few weeks where we move yet again! It is really hard for me to not set up Christmas and even harder to know I have to say goodbye to my husband for 6 months. It is starting to hit home and I'm really scared and emotional if anyone brings it up. So this Christmas is going to be really hard but I have to keep my spirits up and enjoy the time with Jon and our friends and family nearby because next year we won't have an Arizona Christmas.

To keep everyone updated we are moving out of our house December 31st and the house will go up for rent through a rental company. We will load the moving truck and Jon and his Dad will head to Denver around January 6th. I can't believe this is all happening so fast! But, I am excited to move there and to be near my other sister and start a new adventure somewhere new. We are pretty good at that. What do you think?

N is for a bunch of NONSENSE

2009-11-10T14:55:00.001-08:00

I don't have much to post and that is why my posts have been few and far between. Here is what is on my mind lately. It is a bunch nonsense thoughts if you ask me. But its is what is on my mind. Enjoy!

1. Can't wait for So You Think You Can Dance tonight.
2. I wish I were as talented as those dancers.
3. I really need to get back to the gym.
4. I have no energy.
5. Why do my 2nd graders wear me out so much?
6. Am I getting old?
7. My birthday is in 34 days :)
8. My cleaning isn't getting done as I sit here
9. What do I want for Christmas?
10. What it is almost Christmas?
11. Wow I better get my act in gear.
12. I am nervous to live alone for 6 months without my hubby.
13. I am going to miss my husband like crazy while he is in Colorado.
14. I am super excited to move to Colorado.
15. Jon and I are gypsies I decided.
16. We don't settle long enough in one place to call it home.
17. My lunch today was horrible.
18. I am excited to have tomorrow off of work.
19. Finally I live in a place that allows teachers to have Veteran's Day off.
20. What should I do with my day off?
21. Maybe I should get my cleaning done now so I can play tomorrow.
22. Good idea
23. I am very behind on all my tv shows.
24. If I don't get caught up on Flash Forward everyone is going to ruin it for me.
25. Is it time for bed yet?

After School Tutoring

2009-10-24T19:54:00.001-07:00

I wanted to advertise to my friends and families who read our family blog that I am starting after school and Saturday tutoring for children who need extra support in phonics, reading, writing and mathematics. If you know anyone or if you could put my name out there that would be extremely helpful. You are more than welcome to give out my email or phone number to those interested. Thanks everyone!

M is for we MIGHT want to bring our snow gear!

2009-10-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

Here we go from this....

To this....

As some of you know... I believe it is safe to say that we are moving to Denver! Jon got accepted to Texas A&M, Tulane and University of Colorado Denver. We have chosen Denver because it seems like the best fit. We also have my wonderful Sister Erika and her great family there. We will be there for probably 3 years atleast since Jon has decided to get a dual masters degree. One in Healthcare Administration and another in Accounting. Jon and I are really excited to try somewhere new for awhile. I have always loved Colorado, though my thinned Arizona blood may freeze while there!

Jon will be moving all our things to Denver in December which is literally just around the corner. He will begin school in January. I will continue to teach here in Mesa and move out to Colorado the end of May or beginning of June.(I will miss the winter thank heavens) May seems like so far away since I won't have my husband around me. Depending on if we sell our house or not, I will be that living at home with her parents girl until June. My parents will love that. I actually won't mind not having to clean my house for awhile! I hope Jon will be able to live without me. He is the biggest baby out of the two of us about being away from each other. It will be way hard for both but in the long run its what we know is the right thing to do.

Watch out Colorado.... The Ellsworth's are headed for you!

L is for Let's Hope People Come Visit Us In Colorado

2009-09-23T18:27:00.001-07:00

This past weekend Jon went and interviewed at the University of Colorado Denver's MBA program for a Master's of Healthcare Administration. He did so great in the interview the president of the school of business called him an hour after the interview and said, "We want you!" So yeah our first acceptance! It sure feels good. Jon has been working hard and we are both so happy it is finally paying off. Jon had a great time in Colorado. He bragged to me everyday about the beautiful weather they have. Yes I am envious since it is still HOT here in Arizona and it's almost October. He was able to visit my sister Erika and her family. They are hoping we choose Colorado because who wouldn't want us living by them. Duh we are the coolest people in the whole world!!

We are still awaiting a few more acceptances from other schools but I have a feeling in my heart that Colorado is the place for Jon and I to move on to our next step of our journey called life. We are so sad to leave our wonderful friends and family in Arizona whom we love and adore. But we may be back and it's only for 2 years. We have some BIG decisions to make though now. I have to decide if I am going to move out there with Jon in January or if I will finish out my teaching contract here in Arizona and meet him in May. I am torn. I do not want to be away from Jon for 5 months but I also don't want to terminate a teaching contract halfway through the year. Plus there are no guarantees I will have a good job in January if I move out there to Colorado. We will just have to keep praying and looking for answers! Thank you everyone for your love and support! Continue to keep us in our prayers!!

K is for Keep This In Mind

2009-09-19T10:59:00.000-07:00

SATAN'S MEETING
Satan called a worldwide convention of demons.
In his opening address he said, "We can't keep Christians from going to church"
"We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth...."
"We can't even keep them from forming an intimate relationship with their savior."
"Once they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken."
"So let them go to their churches; let them have their covered dish dinners, BUT steal their time, so they don't have time to develop a relationship with Jesus Christ.."
"This is what I want you to do," said the devil:
Distract them from gaining hold of their Savior and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day! "How shall we do this? his demons shouted.
"Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds," he answered...
"Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow."
"Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work 6-7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford their empty lifestyles."
"Keep them from spending time with their children."
"As their families fragment, soon, their homes will offer no escape from the pressures of work!" "Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice."
"Entice them to play the radio or I-Pod whenever they drive." To keep the TV, DVDs, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their home and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly."
"This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ."
"Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers."
"Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day."
"Invade their driving moments with billboards."
"Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogs, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services and false hopes."
"Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines and TV so their husbands will believe that outward beauty is what's important, and they'll become dissatisfied with their wives. "
"Keep the wives too tired to love their husbands at night."
"Give them headaches too! "
"If they don't give their husbands the love they need, they will begin to look elsewhere."
"That will fragment their families quickly!"
"Give them Santa Claus to distract them from teaching their children the real meaning of Christmas.."
"Give them an Easter bunny so they won't talk about his resurrection and power over sin and death..."
"Even in their recreation, let them be excessive."
"Have them return from their recreation exhausted."
"Keep them too busy to go out in nature and reflect onGod's creation. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, plays, concerts, and movies instead."
"Keep them busy, busy, busy!" "And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences."
"Crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Jesus."
"Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the good of the cause." "It will work!" "It will work!"It was quite a plan!
The demons went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get busier and more rushed, going here and there. Having little time for their God or their families. Having no time to tell others about the power of Jesus to change lives. I guess the question is, has the devil been successful in his schemes? You be the judge!!!!! Does "BUSY" mean: B-eing U-nder S-atan's Y-oke?

J is for Jon's Grad School Update

2009-09-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

Well many of you are asking what has been going on with our application process for graduate school. We put in our applications to schools that begin Spring 1010 semester. University of Colorado Denver, Texas A&M and Tulane University are the ones we are waiting to hear back from. We want to live in Denver because its absolutely beautiful, similar to Utah, and my sister Erika lives there. Texas is the cheapest option because tuition is almost half of the other schools and the cost of living is a lot lower. And well Tulane is in Lousiana and that says enough! That wouldn't be my 1st choice... okay not even my 10th choice!! The problem we have though now is that we could wait and apply to some higher ranked schools for the healthcare administration programs but they don't begin until fall 2010. So its up in the air. If we do get into Colorado then do we go and get going on the two year program or wait a year and see if we can get into some bigger name schools. Jon is worried that for competitive reasons a bigger name school may be a better choice because he will be fighting for a fellowship after he recieves his MBA. AHHHHH!! So many decisions... If it were up to me fully I would choose to just go to Denver and get going on it. I hate the thought of putting it off a year! That is just one more year we have to wait!!

I is for INSANE couple of weeks

2009-08-20T18:11:00.000-07:00

Insane Reason #1
I am sorry I have had a pause in my A-Z posts. With school starting my blogging and facebooking has not been so great! I have been spending countless hours getting ready and surviving through the first two weeks of school. I am finally unbarring (that doesnt seem like its spelled right)myself from all my to-do's in the classroom. But I am still healthy and loving my new class! I am exhausted and I am sure after my immunity gets shot I will get sick within time!

Insane Reason #2
So last Friday Jon took his GMAT for the 2nd time and his INSANE studying the last 8 months and $1500 Kaplan study course paid off. WE got a better score than we expected and now we could go to more schools than we thought. Here we were thinking we would only have to choose out of two or three but now our lives just got more complicated. So where do you think we should go to school? Let us know by leaving a comment. The choices are.... University of Colorado Denver, Arizona State University, University of Washington Seattle, Texas A&M, Tulane University in New Orleans, University of Minnesota, University of Alabama, or University of Michigan?

H is for Hale Heroes

2009-08-07T20:15:00.000-07:00

This past week I have been getting ready to start another great year of teaching. I am still teaching 2nd grade but I did change schools over the summer break. I am now teaching at Hale Elementary School. I look forward to the change and I'm staying positive that the sadness of leaving my old school will turn into a memory. I included pics of my new room where I have spent MANY hours working. Enjoy!

G is for Grandmother

2009-07-31T08:07:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking lately about the wonderful people who have made an impact on my life and there have been so many! One is my Grandmother Cleo who is no longer here but she continues to make that lasting impact while she is in Heaven watching over me! A Grandmother's job is so special. Love, smiles, visits, and hugs are all part of her job description. Ever since I was a little girl we would make drives down to Payson, Utah where Grandma Cleo lived. We would often times sit and visit with her and she would always comment how cute we looked. I always remember her liking all our shoes and clothes! She would always say, "I wish I could wear things like that at my old age!" She had quite the sense of humor and we would end up laughing for hours with her. We would then end up either going to lunch at the local drive ins or restaurants in town or we would drive into Provo for shopping and some lunch. Grandma loved shopping and chatting.

Even though the visits have gone away and my wonderful grandmother has passed on, she still visits me all the time as my guardian angel! Thinking of her makes me get through my trials and teaches me to love my life. I love you Grandma and I miss you so much!

F is for Four, Four, and Four

2009-07-22T07:26:00.000-07:00

Four, Four, and Four Tag...

1. Four places that I go to all the time: The Gym (LA Fitness), The Mall, Joann Fabrics, and Hale Elementary

2. Four people who e-mail me (regularly): My Dad, My mother-in-law, Facebook, and Forever21

3. Four favorite smells: My scentsy scents; Grapefruit blossom, Wasabi Ginger, Sunkissed Citrus, and Coconut Lemongrass

4. Four other places I would rather be right now: On a shopping spree at the Mall of America, Italy, Bahamas, and Australia

5. Four people who love you the most: My hubby, my mommy, my daddy, and my sisters Tiffers and Ka Ka

6. Four TV shows I watch: Grey's Anatomy, So You Think You Can Dance, One Tree Hill, and Bachelor/Bachelorette

7. Four of your favorite candies: Sour Patch kids, swedish fish, snickers, and Flipz (are those candy... They have chocolate on them)

8. Four of your best friends: Emily, Serena, Julienne, and Amorette

9. Four pet peeves: when people drive slow in the fast lane, when people leave things out on the counter or in places. There are places for things. Why not put them where they go instead to leaving them out?, when a student doesn't listen to the instructions you give and then says, "Teacher I don't get it." and finally when my hubby leaves his dishes with food or drink still on them in the sink!!

10. Four Favorite Disney, Pixar, or Dreamworks movies: Shrek, Beauty and The Beast, Cars, and Madagascar

E is for Enjoy

2009-07-20T10:44:00.000-07:00

"When you dance, your purpose is not to get to a certain place on the dance floor. It's to enjoy each step along the way."

Today's ABC's post is a short and simple one. I am full of gratitude this day for the things in my life. I have a wonderful life full of happiness and love. I have an amazing husband whom I adore and love. I am a part of a wonderful family who loves me no matter what. I am a friend to many of those who I share life with. I am healthy and strong. I have a great career where I make differences in children's lives. These are among many of the things I enjoy about being me.

D is for Dating Drama

2009-07-15T15:50:00.000-07:00

Okay so I have been OBSESSED with the Bachelorette this season and for my A-Z posting I thought it would be fun to take a poll. I'd like to know who you want Jillian to choose this season, Ed or Kiptyn. Leave a comment and we will see who the crowd chooses.

I personally think she got rid of my favorite Reid. You could tell he really loved her but just had a hard time expressing it in words. He was devastated when he left and I was too! :) But if I had to choose from the two left, I would choose Kiptyn. I have liked Kiptyn from the beginning but Reid started to win my heart over half way through the season. There is something about Ed that I can't stand. Maybe it was those green shorts! YIKES!

C is for College Days

2009-07-11T18:06:00.000-07:00

Okay I thought it would be fun to post pictures of college and to share the memories I had at UVSC in Orem, Utah. I went to UVSC all 4 years and loved every minute. I made new friends and met interesting roommates. I dated lots guys some good, others bad but the days in college shaped me into who I am today. I would never trade the precious friends I have to this day that made my college experience the best ever!

B is for Blogging

2009-07-10T08:34:00.000-07:00

Blogging has become one of my favorite things to do in the whole world. Everyday I check facebook, email, and of course get the updates from all my friends in the blog world. I love how me and my friends and family can keep in touch through blogging. When we live all over it's hard to see each other and find time to call each other on the phone. So I am indeed thankful for the wonderful discovery of blogs. I am addicted!

A to Z Thoughts by Ashlyn

2009-07-08T14:39:00.000-07:00

So I wanted to do something a little different since lately I haven't had much to BLOG about. So what I am going to do is post something we have been doing or a thought each week or every other day that goes with each letter of the alphabet. We will start today with A.

A is for Arizona
Arizona is such a wonderful place and I think its a good start to my A-Z Posts. We have been in Arizona for two years and we have loved it since we moved here. Everyone asks why we like it and how do we live with the intense heat in the summer? Of course my answer is that we adapt to it. We do things inside during the summer months and do ALOT of swimming to keep cool. Its alot like winters in Utah. They are miserable but you get through it. Plus you make up with the 3 months of bad heat for 9 months of BEAUTIFUL weather! Its hard to think we may have to leave next year and go to another state to finish up Jon's schooling. He is applying to graduate schools all over the United States. So we will see where we end up. But for now Arizona is our home and we love it!

Hot Pink Candy Buffet

2009-06-29T16:28:00.000-07:00

Just a few weeks ago I had a bridal shower for my friend from school, Melyssa. I wanted to do a fun candy buffet where the guests could fill up treat bags with all kinds of pink, white, and black candy. It turned out so cute and I promised some friends I would post pics. I am also loving my new vinyl lettering that I am doing! Let me know if you want something made. Im not really doing a business but I do special orders for friends and family of course!

Team Ugly Retreat 2009

2009-06-21T19:16:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my girlfriends came down to Arizona to have a team ugly reunion! We were nicknamed Team Ugly by two of our boyfriends in high school (I don't know why they called us that but it has stuch since then). We had tons of fun. We started out tubing down the Salt River, saw the movie "The Proposal", went swimming, went shopping at Scottsdale Fashion Square, ate some good pizza and pizookie at Oreganos in old town Scottsdale and laughed our pants off. I was exhausted today when my girls went home but I had so much fun and I hope we continue doing this yearly. Love ya girls!

Thrifty Craft Project

2009-06-17T16:56:00.000-07:00

So in Arizona we have a boutique that sells the cutest things however it is a little spendy. Most the time when I go into Orange Patch I see things I like and I tell myself, "Oh I could make that for a fraction of the cost." But most the time I never get around to making the things. Well this time I did! My sister and cousin got these cute calendars from the store but I told myself I wouldnt pay $170 for the thing. So.... I made one for ALOT cheaper! In total my magnetic, wipe off calendar cost me $22. Awesome huh? Plus, its so cute!!

The $170 magnetic board from Ala Board which is sold at Orange Patch

The $22 magnetic board made by Ashlyn :)

Why I Love My Man

2009-06-14T18:16:00.000-07:00

Three years ago on June 15, 2006 I married my best friend. It was what I thought at that time the best day of my life. However now that it is 3 years since then I have realized that everyday is the best day of my life cause I have my Jon Boy! I have made a list of the 10 things I LOVE about my man.... Enjoy!

1. The natural hard worker he is
2. The way he loves kids - He will make the best Dad someday!
3. His goofy personality
4. The way he calls me Frank (I don't know how he thought of that nickname)
5. His Determination
6. The love that he has for the Gospel and being a strong Priesthood holder in our home.
7. How he can eat 10 packages of oreos and still remain skinny (I envy him for that)
8. His hot butt (Its my favorite physical characteristic of his-I first noticed how Hot it looked in his "good" jeans)
9. His cowboy self
10. Last but not least I just love Jon. Everything about him is amazing and I am so happy to have spent the last 3 years f my life with him... I know the best is yet to come!

Love ya baby!

Operation De-clutter

2009-05-26T13:39:00.000-07:00

Working full time makes it very hard to stay on top of my wife and homemaker duties. Luckily I have a job where I get summers off and I can organize and go through everything! I love it! For some reason I get a natural high from dejunking and garbaging things! Now I have to do this closet, drawer, pantry, room garbaging when my better half is at work :) You see Jon loves to collect everything and nothing ever has a place to be put. So as you can imagine after a year of it I go crazy seeing piles and things just thrown in random places! Nothing brings a smile to my face like when I look at my beautifully organized closets and storage spaces! I still have a lot to do but it is only my first day of my summer vacation! I better get organizing, I only have 71 more days of summer vacation!

Goodbye Brinton

2009-05-20T18:46:00.000-07:00

I will miss this 2nd grade class so much! This group was my best so far! Each kiddo brought so much for our wonderful community! Tomorrow is my last day with them and I am dreading it! It is so hard to give them up to a new teacher! They were all mine and I want to keep them under my wing forever! I love each of them so much and I hope they grow up to be wonderful individuals! It is also always the hardest when you are leaving the school as well. I am sad to leave my wonderful Brinton home. I have made some amazing friends who will stay lasting friends forever! I will go back an visit but it will never be the same! I love you guys!

I Love This, I Love This Not

2009-05-15T17:07:00.000-07:00

What I love: sleeping in on Saturday mornings

What I don't love: Doing housework on Saturday mornings

What I love: Having the summers off of work

What I don' love: Spending my summers off in 110 degree weather

What I love: Scrapbooking

What I don't love: My messy craft room that never seems organized

What I love: Shopping

What I don't love: Not having any money to shop with

What I love: Mexican Food

What I don't love: Chinese food ... Well I like PF Changs but other than that no thank you. After being in China I wont eat any of that again!

What I love: Being with my hubby

What I don't love: Doing honey chores FOR my hubby :)

TAG... Your turn if you are reading this!!

It's Official!!

2009-05-11T19:42:00.000-07:00

Yes it's official.... No I am not pregnant even though Jon thought the title of this blog made it sound like I was announcing something like that! I wish I were but I am not. Anyway.... I got news today that I got the job at Nathan Hale Elementary teaching 2nd grade! I am super excited and ready to take on the new adventure!!!

Another great reason teaching is the best!!

2009-05-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

Eenie.. Meenie... Minie... Moe...

2009-05-02T09:05:00.000-07:00

So long to this....

I will miss my friends and family at Brinton Elementary. I have spent my last two years there and have grown to love an appreciate everything about that lovely school. Now where am I going? I should find out by this upcoming Friday. I have interviews with these three schools that I chose.
Nathan Hale Elementary

Zaharis Elementary

or...
Las Sendas Elementary

All great schools and they have 2nd grade openings! Wish me luck!

I will miss you Room 14!!!

2009-04-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I was informed by my principal that I wouldn't be returning to Brinton because they have to move one teacher to another school in the district. To decide who goes they go based off seniority and I unfortunately was that person! When she broke the news that I was for sure being obliged I was overwhelmed with emotions because the last two years teaching at Brinton Elementary have been amazing years. I have taught two wonderful classes who inspired me as a teacher! I have made wonderful friends with the teachers and staff members I work with. When I first moved to Arizona I didn't think I would be this sad to leave but of course I only have 19 more days to enjoy the time as a Brinton Bear! I don't know what school I am going to yet or what grade I am teaching! I just wanted to thank all my friends and the wonderful parents and kids at Brinton! What a wonderful place to call home! Love you guys and I will trully miss you all!!
*The picture was taken today at field day! We all look warn out from being out in the hot weather! But oh well they still are the cutest class in the whole world, and I hope they know that!

An Ellsworth Update

2009-04-22T18:02:00.001-07:00

Sorry ya'll I have been so bad with blogging! I don't have much going on in life except that I never really did update people that Jon didn't get into graduate school. We are going to continue trying next year and hope for the best! We were both disappointed because we were ready to get on with our life. We took the house off the market and now are just going to stay put for a year atleast!

As far as my job next year, that is all up in the air as well! As many of you know many districts in Arizona are cutting HUGE numbers of 1st, 2nd and 3rd year teachers. Most of these are excellent teachers with great ideas! Luckily Mesa didn't cut me and I still have a job (cross your fingers for me, cause you never know). The only problem though is that Mesa does this thing called obligs. When schools enrollment goes down they have to move teachers around. Well unfortunately my school is losing one teacher in 1st grade. That means who ever is the least experienced in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grade has to be relocated to a school with openings. Again another unfortunate spot for me to be in cause that person happens to be me :( So I have been so emotional since one week I didn't know if I even had a job and now this week I have a job but I have to give up everything I love at my school!

Jon keeps telling me to be thankful that I have a job because things could be a lot worse! I could be those 1500 teachers in Arizona who were laid off!

Happy Easter!

2009-04-11T20:49:00.000-07:00

I think Easter is such a happy and bright holiday!! Jon and I got released from Sunbeams and so I wanted to make them a special treat for our last Sunday with them, which happens to be Easter Sunday. I have to brag about my cute creations because I think they are so dang cute! Anyway these are my cupcake easter baskets!! I just wanted to share my cute idea! Hope everyone has a great Easter! Love you all!

It's Time To Prepare

2009-04-04T23:09:00.001-07:00

BEFORE

AFTER

About a month ago our Bishop challenged 10 families in our ward to live off their 3 month food supply for 10 days. These families followed the council of our wonderful Bishop and last week they reported to the adults of our ward at our 5th Sunday combined meeting. Jon and I have both been telling each other we needed to get preparing our food storage but both have kept putting it off. After hearing these great families and how prepared they are, it made us really feel a prompting that we to needed to be prepared for troubled times that may lie ahead. So I know it doesn't look like much but I am starting out slow. Being in Arizona makes food storage a bit tough to find storage space. You can't store it in the garage like other places because of the heat. We also don't have many basements here in Arizona so its like a game finding space. Luckily, I have lots of cupboard space in my kitchen and I was able to clear a few cupboards and start storing there. Our plan is to use the pantry and cupboards for the food storage part. We are storing water under beds in all bedrooms. I will use a guest room closet to store all other neccesities like laundry detergent, paper towel, shampoo, soap, toilet paper, etc. Like I said it isn't much now but I will build at it little by little!

I think I love going grocery shopping now to see the great deals and what I can buy for our storage!! I found killer deals today on all this!! Yeah!

Softball Pros

2009-03-28T22:34:00.000-07:00

Back in January a P.E. teacher from my school was recruiting couples to play in the city co-ed softball league. Being stupid I opened my mouth up and said, "Jon loves softball and always wished I would play. I won't tell him since he would die to play! But, I won't play.. I can't play.. I don't know how to play!" Well without really consenting my friend Mindy the P.E. teacher signed us up anyway. 5 other teachers and spouses from our school signed up. I was so scared. I had never played sports before! I was always the dancer who cared more about what she looked like, sports were never my thing. Until now I guess! Little to my surprise I have actually found an enjoyment for this sport. I have gained more self confidence for myself, Jon and I have got to spend time doing something together, and my sport abilities have gotten much better! After 6 weeks of playing, my batting skills have gotten better. I can now hit and make it to 1st base. I have only made one run for my team this season which is pretty pathetic, but we are talking about me here! Anyway, it has been so fun and I am happy Mindy ended up signing us up. I need to practice catching now cause I still dodge the ball instead of catching it. I will have to keep practicing for next season!

S is for Sassy

2009-03-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

Tagged By Aubry...
If you follow my blog and want to play, here's what you do. Leave me a "comment" that you want to play and I'll assign you a letter. You are to share with us 10 things you love... that begin with that letter. Then you play it forward and peeps will in turn leave you a comment and you can assign them a letter and on and on......Come on and play!

My letter is "S".........here are the things I love that begin with "S"!

1 I love being silly. My family thinks I am the entertainer!

2 I love sour patch kids. They are sour then sweet!

3 I love shopping. Just put me in a mall and I am in heaven!

4 I love sleeping in. It doesn't happen much, but when it does, it's the bomb!

5 I love a sexy man named Jon. Gotta love those muscles!

6 I love the sunshine. That is probably why I love Arizona. It is always sunny and warm here!

7 I love spending time with my family and friends. My family and friends are very special to me. I love being with them and I hope they know how much I love them all!

8 I love teaching second grade. I love my kiddos. They are my life and I love my job. I forget most days that I actually get paid for it!

9 I love scrapbooking. If I had all the money in the world I would own and live at Scrapbooks Etc.

10 I love my new sport of Softball? Okay so I couldn't think any more S things. I have started a co-ed team with Jon. Let's just I am the best right fielder ever!

Now, play! Leave me a comment & I will assign you a letter! Have fun!

My Precious Grandma Cleo

2009-03-11T14:54:00.000-07:00

On Monday evening our loving grandmother, mother, and friend was taken from us. My Grandma Cleo was in an unexpected car accident and past away later that evening at the Provo Hospital from trauma to her heart and lungs. As hard as it is to loose such a special grandma like she is, I am so happy she is in Heaven with our Heavenly Father and she is happy to be back there. I am very thankful for the Plan of Salvation and that I know I will see my grandma again! She was such an amazing woman and many would agree. She loved being with her family and friends. She enjoyed looking and painting the wonderful mountains from her window. She was also a huge NBA basketball fan. There are so many blessed memories we have of our Cleo. I will miss you Grandma and please know I love you so much!

Thank you to all of you who have been here for support. I appreciate all that everyone has done for me and my family. Thank you again!

Girls Weekend to Denver

2009-02-23T17:58:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago my sister and mother surprised me with a ticket to go with them to Denver to see my other sister Erika and her family. We all went this past weekend and had a total ball! We didn't want to come home this morning, but all good things have to come to an end. However we made lasting memories with the small time we were together. It is so hard living in seperate places because the kiddos grow up so fast and we cherish the time we have with them! Here are a few highlights of what we did over the weekend.

Friday - We woke up and got ready and took Logan my oldest niece to the orthodontist and spent the afternoon shopping a bit at Target and other places. We then met Eric my brother in law for dinner at my favorite Denver hot spot 3 Margaritas. Of course we ended the night playing Phase 10 our favorite game as sisters!

Saturday - Woke up and went to breakfast as girls; me, my sisters Tiffany and Erika, and my mom Rebecca to little french place. Yummy!! Then we hit Park Meadows mall for shopping at Nordstrom, Forever 21, and many other places. Warning- Never go shopping with the Steadman girls, it is a killer long day with us shopping maniacs! We then went home ordered pizza and spent the night in our pjs playing Karoke Revolution and Phase 10! I have not laughed that hard in A VERY LONG TIME!!! Hey Erika and Tiffany I have bad news to tell you! Ha Ha!

Sunday - We all woke up super early and headed for Denver to my nieces Logan and Sydnee's state cheer competition! We were there all day watching and had so much fun cheering Peak Athletics on! My nieces are crazy talented being only 9 and 11 and already on level 3! They are way better then most high school and college cheerleaders! WAY TO GO GIRLS TAKING 1ST PLACE in their division! Good luck at nationals in New Orleans!

Overall the whole weekend was a blast! I didn't want to leave because it isn't very often we are all together. Thank you again Erika for letting us stay with you! Thank you Tiff and Mom for the ticket! I trully am grateful for the most wonderful family in the whole world! Love ya!

Draper's Beautiful Temple

2009-02-16T17:36:00.000-08:00

I was looking up information on the Draper Temple today and I got extremely emotional because of the importance of this temple in my life. I was born and raised in Draper, Utah until I got married. I am trully a Draper girl! I am so happy to see a House of the Lord built in my hometown. Now the people of Draper each day can look up on the mountain and see that beautiful sight above them. Its trully like looking up into heaven! Corner Canyon is such an amazing sight with the rocks and trees but now what a better sight it is with the Lord's house nestled into the canyon! I wish I could be there to see this temple be dedicated! However, I will someday go back and go through to do temple work in the Draper Temple! To those in Utah please take your children and loved ones through this beautiful place before it is dedicated. Take those that are less active or non members so they can feel of the spirit! I love temples! I am so happy to have them in my life. To have a place to go each week to clear my mind, and to feel the spirit each time! I have made it a personal goal to go each week by myself to the Mesa, Arizona temple. What a blessing it has been in my life and for Jon and I's life as a couple!

Watch this video on You Tube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WJ27w1OWu0

Will we be Washington Huskies next Fall?

2009-02-09T17:31:00.000-08:00

Jon flew out tonight to Seattle to interview for the University of Washington's MHA (Masters in Healthcare Administration)program. He will interview tomorrow and we should know by the end of the month if he gets into the grad program for Fall 2009! We are crossing our fingers that he does get in. I have been back and forth on wanting to move to Washington or anywhere for that matter. However, if it means Jon gets finished with school earlier then I will go wherever! If he doesn't get into UW then he has applied to University Colorado Denver and we should know about that one in March. Who knows where we will be living next year. Maybe rainy, vampire lurking Washington, beautiful snowy Denver, or hot and sunny Arizona. Wherever we end up I know we will end up loving no matter what!

Where did January go?

2009-02-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

I can't believe January is over and February is here! Wow, time flies when your having fun!! So to cover all of January and what happened in the Ellsworth home. Jon applied to University of Washington for the MBA program for Healthcare Administration. He got a call last week from them wanting to set up an interview, so he is heading out there next week. Cross your fingers cause the sooner he finishes the sooner our lives can begin!! Washington of all places may not be my 1st choice because of the rain all the time but one of my best friends Colleen who lives here in Phoenix is from Washington and we are hoping that her husband and her move back if he can get a job! That would give us 2 people we would know! Woo hoo!! Jon is also applying to University of Colorado Denver and we will see where that takes us! That would be my 1st choice because my wonderful and witty sister Erika lives there.

Jon and I are still teaching sunbeams here in our ward. We got a new batch of kids this last month and wow are they tiny! They have a hard time and cry the 1st 30 minutes but once they realize how goofy Jon and I are they warm right up! I love my ward. I have made lots of great friends and am so thankful to all you loving meadowviewers out there! Love ya!

Our house is up for sale just in case Jon does get into school. We want to have nothing holding us back so we can go. So far no offers but lots of people keep going through. Its hard to have it on the market, however its nice having it clean most the time!

I got a new sewing machine for Christmas and I have decided that I am going to take an adventure and make a quilt! My 1st quilt actually, and Im going to make two of them. Im going to make a baby girl quilt and a baby boy quilt. I want the practice and its something I will use and cherish with a little one someday!

Well everyone, I hope you are having a wonderful start to 2009. Time is rushing by so live every moment to the fullest! Love you all and miss you tons you Utah gang!

I'm taking a poll to my fellow teachers or not...

2009-01-16T16:13:00.001-08:00

Jon and I have decided that I will be returning next year to teach another year at Brinton at this point. Unless for some miracle Jon gets into grad school without a Bachelor's Degree Ha Ha!! Long story short... We thought Jon was graduating this summer with his BA but the ASU councelor made a mistake and he wont be finishing until this December hopefully. So that means we are staying in Arizona a little longer!! Each day brings new surprises so that is the plan as of now.

I know it is only January and it is a bit early to think about planning for next school year but I am the crazy one! I am debating on possible classroom themes for my 2nd grade class. I have had and loved my camping theme for the last two years and everyone comments on how great and wonderful the class is, but it is time for a change! So here is a list of ideas I have for my next year classroom... I would like opinions of your favorites! My two favorites so far are jungle and rock and roll. Let me know!

- Jungle/Safari Theme "Beware Monkeys are Everywhere in Room 14"
- Sports Theme "Team Ellsworth"
- Rock and Roll Theme "Rockin' Room 14"
- Pirate Theme "The Treasure in Room 14"
- Wild West/Cowboys Theme "Yee-Haw...Room 14"
- Hollywood Theme "The Stars of Room 14"

My Top Ten of 2008

2009-01-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

2008 was a great year and I had many great things happen to myself and Jon. I know 2009 will bring even more surprises! Enjoy!!

10. Finally broke down and got a sewing machine... Now I have to learn to sew!
9. It was the year of TWILIGHT. The long awaited movie came out and my sister, mom, and I went and saw it opening night!
8. I decided to start a BLOG to keep in touch with my family and friends from all over.
7. I was able to go to Utah and celebrate Mother's Day with my Mom. It was the first time since my wedding that all my family came into town to be with Mom.

6. I managed to stay for year #2 at my school and teach another year at Brinton. I am known for moving around, but not this year!

5. I started selling SCENTSY and am loving every moment of it!

4. Jon and I celebrated our 2 wedding anniversary! I can't believe how time flies.
3. I shot my first gun!

2. I travelled to China on a Dental Humanitarian trip with my father.

1. Jon and I bought our first home in Gilbert, Arizona.... and now it is for sell!!

We hope you had a great year in 2008 and that your 2009 is also full of many blessings! Happy 2009 everyone!

Scentsy Update

2008-12-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

As many of you know I have been a consultant for Scentsy for about 6 months now and am loving every moment selling product I truly love. I wanted to let you know I now have a Scentsy BLOG that will always be located on the right side of this blog but for those of you that haven't noticed it is; www.ilovescentsy.blogspot.com I will continually add new updates and drawings for great prizes. So let your friends and family know about Scentsy.

The month of January is an exciting time for you lovers of Scentsy. For anyone who hosts a party in the month of January you earn double rewards. For example lets say you sold $300 dollars worth of product at your party. As a host you would earn $45 toward any products and then 2 half priced items of your choice. Well in January you could double that! So instead you would get $90 of free product of choice and 4 half price items!! It can't get better than that!

Let me know if you are interested because January is filling up fast. For you in Utah and other places you can always do a catalog party and get orders that way and still be counted as a hostess. Let me know! Have a SCENTsational day!!

Gotta Love Christmas Time

2008-12-20T16:41:00.000-08:00

People running around everywhere, cold weather settling in, yummy smells coming from the kitchen, smiles from ear to ear on all the kid's faces, family greeting cards arriving in the mail of loved ones near and far, these are all the reasons I love Christmas. Now that school is out and I have time to notice and enjoy everything about Christmas. It trully is my favorite time of year.

Our new home was so fun to decorate for Christmas. I had so much room to put up all the decorations. It was great! I wanted to show off my decorations and not that they are that fancy but I love them!!

Jon and I want to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and we hope you enjoy the time spent with family and friends. Love you all!!

Relax...

2008-12-13T21:55:00.001-08:00

Well it is over!! Thank heavens! I nominated myself a few months to host my school's faculty Christmas party. I only did this to save the same two ladies from having to do it again! I didn't think that would be fair to have it at their houses again, and sense no one else volunteered, I thought why not? We have this new home that is barely lived in. Why not trash it? Ha Ha! Surprisingly it went very well and was a lot of fun! I can say that now that it is over and I can breath. It is hard hosting a party I decided. You have to be doing so many things at once and finally toward the end I just went outside and sat by the firepit to breath because having 60 people in my house was a little nerve racking!

However, I am so thankful to work with such great people. I have made many friends with my fellow Brinton Bears and there is no other school better to teach at here in Arizona!! (Hence I said in Arizona... I love you Pony gals!)

So my plan tomorrow to celebrate the start of my 25th year, is to be as this cat. I am going to simply RELAX...

Winter Wonderland in Arizona?

2008-12-08T15:33:00.001-08:00

Yes thats right I said it... It's going to be a WINTER WONDERLAND here in sunny Arizona this Saturday! There is going to be snow only in the Power Ranch community in Gilbert. I am advertising this great event because it is going to be so much fun for the kids. Once a year my community I live in hosts a HUGE event. They truck in 20 tons of REAL snow for the kids to play in. There will also be over 35 vendors selling great Christmas gifts, crafts, and yummy treats. I am actually one of those vendors selling Scentsy. So get out the mittens, coats, and sleds and come play in the snow this Saturday from 9:00 a.m.-1:00 at the Power Ranch Community Club House on Ranch House Parkway in between Germann and Queen Creek Road. We'll see you there!

Our Redneck Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T14:57:00.000-08:00

We had a great Thanksgiving break and spent most of the holiday weekend with Jon's family. His sisters and brother were all in town from Utah. We had tons of fun during the weekend eating tons of turkey, hitting the Black Friday shopping deals, being lazy, playing games, and the last thing we did Saturday was probably my highlight of the whole weekend. Thats right everyone Ashlyn shot a pistol, and rifle!

It was very scary since it was my first time going shooting. My family wasn't big into guns or hunting. We drove out into the desert near Queen Valley and found a place up against the superstition mountains and set up targets. Many of Jon's uncles, cousins, and friends joined us. It was so much fun!! It was a little hard at first but once I got the hang of it, I enjoyed myself. Jon and I laughed and laughed the whole time. Especially Jon's joke he tells everyone that I was going to hold the targets for everyone shooting. Ha Ha Jon!!

Overall we had a blast the entire weekend and I am so thankful for family and the great friends we have!! Next year maybe you can get a ticket to the gunshow!!

PS. Don't we all look hot in our plaid flannel?

Twilight Friday

2008-11-21T21:30:00.001-08:00

Like the rest of the world I spent my Friday night with a jam packed movie theater on the edge of my seat watching the much anticipated movie "Twilight." I will say this that I was very scared going into it because I didn't want the movie to ruin the love I got from all the books! I also did not like Edward from what I saw prior. That all changed about 5 minutes into the movie. That guy who plays Edward is PERFECT!! Oh my gosh I fell in love with Edward even more than before! He can watch me sleep or rescue me from a near death experience anytime!!

I know there are mixed reviews with the movie but I loved it and I give it two thumbs up!!

Twilight Tag

2008-11-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

Who Introduced you to the Books?-Laura Tanner-I remember her telling me about Twilight when it was just the first book and I told myself I was never going to read a romance about vampires. That was just not my style. Yeah now look at me.. I'm addicted

What Character would you most compare yourself to?
Probably Bella, even though I don't think I am really like her, I just want Edward to want me! Ha Ha!

What Character would others say you are?
Alice maybe? Who knows!

Team Edward or Team Jacob?-Team Edward forever!

Fav. Car mentioned in the book?
Edward's Volvo

How many times have you read Twilight?
Just once

Favorite Quote from the book?
"I love you... You are my life now!" and
"Hell's not so bad, if you get to keep an angel with you."

If you could have one of the powers the Cullens have what would it be and why?I like Alice's power to see things and know what is going on.

What is your Fav. part in Twilight?
The whole book is my favorite. Twilight is by far the best of the series!

Fav Cullen Sibling?Alice

Phoenix or Forks?
Well I live in Phoenix and so I would have to say Phoenix even though my good friend Colleen is from Washington and loves it there! Who knows both are probably great!

If you were Bella and you can't have Edward what other male from the book would you pick and why?-
Jacob because he has a nice body I would imagine

Would you rather be a Vampire or Werewolf?-
Vampire

Now it is your turn. I tag any Twilight addicts out there!

The count down to the movie is on! Less than one week! Yeah!

One Night As a Rockstar

2008-11-01T16:36:00.000-07:00

INTRODUCING ASHLYN AS HANNAH MONTANA FOR ONE NIGHT ONLY....

People always say blondes have more fun. Well, Halloween 2008 was great being blonde for one night but I think I may have to disagree with the popular saying and stick to my original hair color. Friends and Family kept telling me I looked good as a blonde and I kept wondering if they were seeing straight!

I hope everyone had a SPOOKTACULAR Halloween! I have included a few pictures of my fun filled day as the popular rock star Hannah Montana, from signing autographs at a 2nd grade class, to partying all night at my sister's Halloween Bash! Halloween is never dull with us partiers down here in Arizona! We know where the good times are! Hope everyone had a good haunted celebration. Love ya!

Nothing New In Our Lives

2008-10-25T18:17:00.000-07:00

It seems like lately I have absolutely nothing to blog about for the blogging world. I wouldn't want to bore you with my everyday life. Well too bad, that is what you are getting today. Nothing great is going on. Jon is still working full time and doing full time school at night. We basically never see each other except for the weekends. Then we have tons of house work and yard work to do when we both have time and no work for once. School for me is great. The 2nd graders are starting to go crazy with Halloween around the corner. They keep on wanting me to tell them what I am being, but no one knows the secret! I will post pictures of the secret revealed on the 31st. Let's just say my 7 and 8 year olds will LOVE it!! Our new house is still great. If feels like no matter what I do or buy it still seems large and bare. But I guess thats what happens when you move into something larger than a rental you are use to. My parents just got down here to Arizona for the winter and it is so wonderful to have them close. My sister and I have taken full advantage of it. From my mom making me dinner cause Jon goes to school at night, having more friends to go hang out with, or to have another shopping partner are always bonuses of having family near. So to wrap things up, life is great down in the AZ. The weather is starting to cool down to the 80's and it feels perfect. We are still happy as can be and still so much in love. So for now goodbye from the Ellsworths!!

Power Ranch Community Garage Sale on Saturday

2008-10-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

For those of you who live in Arizona, I just wanted to advertise our community Garage Sale. We registered and noticed tons of people doing it so I wanted to let you all know! Some of you are great bargain hunters and love garage sales and some others like me never find anything. But hey we are selling a few things like a 3 piece bedroom set. It is the off white logs and very cute!! We couldn't fit all pieces in our spare bedroom and so we need to get rid of it and find something else. I am also selling one of my favorite things, my off white wood tv stand from our old place in Mesa. Again, if just didn't fit our new place. All the other things for sale are odds and ends. Anyway just wanted to let ya'll know!! Power Ranch is located between Higley and Power and Pecos and Queen Creek.

Eight is Great!

2008-10-14T20:40:00.000-07:00

A LIST OF EIGHTS

8 TV Shows I Watch:

-One Tree Hill
--Grey's Anatomy
---America's Next Top Model
----So You Think You Can Dance
-----90210
------The Hills
-------Lipstick Jungle
--------Gossip Girl

8 Things That Happened Yesterday

-Had a case of the Mondays
--Had my first day of Parent Teacher Conferences
---Made it through my first day of conferences without any angry parents
----Went to the gym and had a wonderful work out
-----Made myself an amazing breakfast bagel sandwich!! Yummo!
------Watched One Tree Hill
-------Organized a shipment of Scentsy products that came in the mail :)
--------Went to sleep in my cozy bed (ooh that sounds so good right now)

8 Favorite Places to Eat:

-Cafe Rio
--Cheesecake Factory
---Sauce
---- Rosas
-----PF Changs
------Got Sushi
-------Red Robin
--------Rafaels (the best mexican food in Utah)

8 Things I'm Looking Forward To:

-Halloween and showing off my great costume!! He He
--This weekend's garage sale
--- My birthday
----Christmas
-----Jon finishing school someday (Now I am thinking of things that may be far away)
------Having a baby
------- Being a stay at home mommy
--------Raising a beautiful family

8 Things On My Wish List:

-A puppy
-- A new desk for our office
---Entry way console table for my living room
----Tables and lamps for my family room (can you tell I moved into a new home and have no furniture?)
----- A Cricut machine
------A sewing machine
-------A brand new 2009 Mazda 6 (those things are so sexy!!)
--------A trip to Italy

That was fun, you should try it too!

A Day As Betty Homemaker

2008-10-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

So for those of you who know me well enough you know I do not sew. I have an experience and wonderful grandmother who was an expert sewer and her daughters never took on that trait from her. Hence the reason I never received that talent from my mother!! However, I am good at crafty projects but sewing nearly gives me ulcers.

Today, though I decided to give it a try. My friend Colleen came over and we started making panel curtains. After about 2 hours of just cutting the fabric and asking myself why am I making these when by now I could've bought and put them up in this time. We finally started phase one of sewing and I realized that I really do make myself sick when I sit by a sewing machine. It must have been the 7th grade Home Ec class that did this to me. I failed sewing!! I never got less than a B ever and yes I got an F in sewing!! But I made it through the sewing of 4 panel curtains without messing up too bad!! It wasn't as awful as I thought it would be either. I actually kinda enjoyed it after I got use to it. We will see the next time I get together with Colleen to finish these up. She was a trooper with me today. So thank you Colleen for putting up with my nearly caused ulcer from sewing. But for those of you who care, my curtains are actually going to be so cute!! I may go crazy and make more. I will get pictures up when I finish. Wish me luck!!

To our friends Chris and Emily

2008-09-24T17:18:00.000-07:00

Jon and I have two great friends who are going to be having their first baby next week (hopefully, cross your fingers). I wanted to write a few things about my best friend Emily and let her know she is going to be the best mother ever!! I know we do not live nearby Chris and Emily anymore but they will always be close to us. Emily and I have been best friends since we were itty bitty. It feels like it was just yesterday we would go over to each other's houses and play house with our cabbage patch dolls. I cannot believe that those plays days have now turned into reality. Emily, we aren't playing dolls anymore!! You are going to be starting your own family in a matter of days!! We are both so excited for you guys!! It breaks my heart that I won't be there for when little Christopher is born but just know I will be thinking of you. We love you guys and wish you both the best of luck. And for everyone else reading this if you don't know my friends Chris and Emily just know that they are both special friends to Jon and I. We love you!!

Scared for Pregnancy=Ashlyn

2008-09-14T12:02:00.001-07:00

Over the last few weeks I have been hearing too much about how it is to be pregnant, in labor, and the joys of motherhood. Because all of my friends seem to be having babies all at the same time it seems like I am the only one without a bundle of joy on the way. I have been to baby shower after baby shower every weekend for the last month. Everyone is having a baby!! Yesterday while at my friend Nicole's baby shower I sat with the pregnant girls and listened to them talk about the good and the bads of pregnancy!! I was quite entertained listening to the odd pains you get from pregnancy, to the crazy lady you become due to hormones. Wow, pregnancy and motherhood sure sound fun!! Yeah right! I love these girls to death that are having babies and I know that they are excited for their new addition to come in a few weeks. But being the only non pregnant one listening to the girls it made me reconsider being a mother so soon. I think Jon and I will continue to wait a few more years!! Ha Ha!! Sorry to those that are trying to get us to add a little Ellsworth!!

An Ellsworth Update

2008-08-31T16:19:00.000-07:00

I haven't done too much blogging lately because our lives have been so busy!! It seems like whenever the end of August and September comes Jon and I get so busy that we almost forget to take a breath. As you know school started for me and I am teaching 2nd grade again at my same school as last year in Mesa, AZ. My class seems to be okay but they have interesting quirks! Their individual quirks are stories themselves. If you need a good laugh let me know and I will humor you with the weird 2nd grade stories from room 14!! Jon also started school and a new job all in about two weeks of each other. He is working full time at Hanjin Shipping dealing with all the imports from China and he is going to school full time at ASU at night. We don't see each other much except for our daily together time which is getting ready in the morning and making out lunches together!! As the beginning of September came we both got excited because we knew Labor Day weekend was here! We didn't plan any elaborate vacations, family picnics, or anything to celebrate our long weekend off of school and work. Instead I got very sick on Thursday and spent most of my weekend wiping my faucet of a nose and hacking the nights away!! It's the best way to describe it. So, as you can see life at the Ellsworth Residence is quite eventful (NOT). However, we are looking forward to the upcoming months. I absolutely love fall in Arizona. It means the weather will cool down finally around mid October just in time for the best holiday Halloween. Don't worry Jon and I already have out costumes planned out for the Steadman Halloween Party at my sister's house. I am going to be launching my new Scentsy business doing many hostess parties. My parents will be back down to Arizona at the end of September and I can't wait to have them through the winter here. I also have about 5 friends having babies in the next two months. I am also planning the best shower for my girlfriend Colleen.I can't believe all the babies being born. I feel like I am the last out of everyone to have a little one. So the next few months even though life may settle down a bit, they will still be a lot of fun. I can't wait for fall to come!! Hope everyone is doing well! Love you all!

My Part Time Jobs!

2008-08-21T18:59:00.001-07:00

As if teaching 5 days a week for 8 hours (thats not including the additional hours I put into school and on a typical day I do not leave until about 6 pm) wasn't enough. I have decided to take on two additional jobs for the heck of it. I thought they would both be fun! I wanted to put my advertising out there in the BLOG world for both of my new adventures.

First, off I am going to use my teaching expertise and start after school tutoring for children 1st-6th grade. I will be helping in reading, writing, and math. If you know anyone who is looking for a tutor to help a child advance in school or to just better a skill please let me know.

My other part time job is also a Scentsy Consultant. I am now selling the newest and greatest thing in candles. These are wax burners that use a lightbulb instead of a flame. I wasn't going to do it but I had people asking me to do it and when I saw the fall/winter catalog I fell in love with all the new scents and warmers. It can't hurt to sell what you love! So, if you are interested in having a party or ordering from scentsy let me know and I can help you out! If you do have a party for you and your friends you get lots of free things from Scentsy and you get to have a fun time with your friends. Let me know!

Okay those are my only two new adventures in life. So now you can call me Crazy overworked teacher (slash) nightly tutor (slash)smell good seller! Ha Ha! Love you all!

Beijing, Bigger than ever!

2008-08-16T07:55:00.000-07:00

Wow, after one week of watching the Beijing Summer Olympics I have been in awe with the wonderful athletes the United States have! I have been so into these games more than any other olympics. I think even when the olympics were in my home state of Utah and I was able to go to many events and medal ceremonies, but nothing compares to the games in China. I know since I was over in China before the olympics started and I was able to see the olympic sites and be in the wonderful city of Beijing. That has also helped ignite by interest in these games. But the one thing that has captivated me this year are the athletes. They are amazing! First of one of the best athletes I have ever seen is Michael Phelps.
He is extraordinary! He is so captivating to watch while in that water. His speed and intensity for swimming is so amazing. Plus, may I add he is very nice looking! His upper body is oh so.... well what can I say? HOT!!
Another great sport that I have been watching is gymnastics. I know the U.S.A womens team had a rough time at first but Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liuken are great gymnasts. They have helped the team go very far in this competition. It has been great to watch the 16 year old be a team leader! These games are such and experience! I am so excited that the Unites States are doing great in these games. And just think that was only the first week of the games and we still have one mroe to go!! Yeah!!

Welcome to Ellsworth's Campsite!

2008-08-07T21:09:00.000-07:00

I have been so busy this last week with being back to school that my blogging has been terrible. I wanted to let everyone know I am alive, but barely! Yes, it was the first week back to school for teachers and the precious kiddos come back this Monday!! I have stayed pretty busy adding a bit to my room and I am very proud of the extra work I put into it this summer! I know each year gets better but this classroom is awesome! For all my teacher friends out there good luck on the first weeks of school! Enjoy my pictures of Ellsworth's Campsite!

So You Think You Can Dance Finalists are SICK!

2008-07-30T21:06:00.000-07:00

Oh my gosh I know I have posted about this show before. However, I just finished watching this week's episode and my mouth is still hanging low in awe with how seriously incredible these dancers are. I was a little heart broken last week when the best technical dancer Will went home because I didn't think he deserved to go. But, the 6 dancers left are AMAZING!! I don't even know who I would chose. I know that all 6 shined tonight but I absolutely loved Katee and Josh's numbers. It will be sad to see two leave tomorrow. So friends who do you think will win it? I can't even chose!

Could your husband survive?

2008-07-28T21:47:00.000-07:00

I know my man couldn't survive. Could yours?

THE NEXT SURVIVOR SERIES

Six married men will be dropped on an island with one car and 3 kids each for six weeks.Each kid will play two sports and either take music or dance classes.
There is no fast food.Each man must take care of his 3 kids; keep his assigned house clean , correct all homework, and complete science projects, cook, do laundry, and pay a list of 'pretend' bills with not enough money.

In addition, each man will have to budget in money for groceries each week.Each man must remember the birthdays of all their friends and relatives, and send cards out on time--no e-mailing.Each man must also take each child to a doctor's appointment, a dentist appointment, and a haircut appointment.He must make one unscheduled and i nconvenient visit per child to the Urgent Care.

He must also make cookies or cupcakes for a social function.Each man will be responsible for decorating his own assigned house, planting flowers outside, and keeping it presentable at all times.The men will only have access to television when the kids are asleep and all chores are done.The men must shave their legs, wear makeup daily, adorn himself with jewelry, wear uncomfortable yet stylish shoes, keep fingernails polished and eyebrows groomed.During one of the six weeks, the men will have to endure severe abdominal cramps, back aches, and have extreme, unexplained mood swings but never once complain or slow down from other duties.

They must attend weekly school meetings, church, and find time at least once to spend the afternoon at the park or a similar setting.They will need to read a book to the kids each night and in the morning, feed them, dress them, brush their teeth, and comb their hair by 7:00 am.

A test will be given at the end of the six weeks, and each father will be required to know all of the following information: each child's birthday, height, weight, shoe size, clothes size and doctor's name. Also the child's weight at birth, length, time of birth, and length of labor, each child's favorite color, middle name, favorite snack, favorite song, favorite drink, favorite toy, biggest fear and what they want to be when they grow up.

The kids vote them off the island based on performance.The last man wins only if...he still has enough energy to be intimate with his spouse at a moment's notice.
If the last man does win, he can play the game over and over and over again for the next 18-25 years eventually earning the right to be called Mother!

After you get done laughing, comment and tell me what you think! Could your guy survive???

Crunch Time

2008-07-26T07:10:00.000-07:00

For many of you fellow blogger friends, I know you feel the same way when it gets closer and closer for school to start. AHHH!! I cannot believe school is starting in two weeks!! Yikes! This summer has flown by and I am so happy with how it went. I would say I travelled much more this summer than I have any other summer while teaching. It is not typical to spend a few weeks in China!! However, I call myself a slacker this summer because I hardly went into school and did things over the break. Years prior I was in there almost every week. It feels good to take a good long break and enjoy my vacation.

After returning back from Utah this past week, I thought it might be good to go into school and see what needs to be done. Well come to find out I have been a HUGE slacker. All the classrooms down my hall and where I looked, look almost done!! Yikes that is when I knew it was time for me to kick my butt in gear.

I love going back to school! Like others of you I am sure you feel the same as teachers. You get to start over each year with a new set of everything. It is a great change. I am excited to start next year. I think I have a great group this year with only 22 kiddos. That won't last long! I am continuing my Ellsworth Campsite throughout my classroom which I just love. I have done some cute things with the theme. I will have to get some pictures up soon! Good luck to my other teacher friends both in Arizona and Utah. Your crunch time is getting closer!

One Word

2008-07-21T20:08:00.000-07:00

ONE WORD TAG!! -- its kinda hard to only think of ONE word!

1. Where is your cell phone? near
2.Your significant other? amazing
3. Your hair? curly
4. Your mother? loving
5. Your father? greatest
6.Your favorite thing? Jon
7. Your dream last night? paradise
8. Your favorite drink? coke
9. Your dream/goal? family
10. The room you're in? study
11. What makes you happy? family
12. Your fear? snakes
13. Where do you want to be in 6 years? mother
14. Favorite snack? cookies
15. What you're not? famous
16. Chocolate? sometimes
17. One of your wish list items? puppy
18. Where you grew up? Draper
19. The last thing you did? ate
20. What are you wearing? pj's
21. Your TV? lifesaver
22.Your pets? none
23. How many kids do you want? 3
24.Your life? wonderful
25. Your mood? excited
26. Missing someone? badly
27. Your car? civic
28. Something you're not wearing? shoes
29. Favorite Store? Target
30. Your summer? travelling
31. Your favorite color? red
32. Your favorite word? believe.
33. When is the last time you laughed? lately
34. Last time you cried? yesterday
35. Who will/would re-post this? Melanie

TAG TO ANYONE WHO READ THIS..

Remember The Memories?

2008-07-17T22:21:00.000-07:00

"We do not remember days; we remember moments." ~Cesare Pavese

I saw this great memory sharing idea on my friend Natalie's BLOG and wanted to share it with all my friends and family. The directions are below. Enjoy!

Here are the directions:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a wonderful memory about you. It is a great way to remember the great moments in our lives.

Footsteps In The Sand

2008-07-14T16:06:00.000-07:00

If my dreams could come true, paradise would be on a boat somewhere in Lake Powell!

Having a Sand-sational Time!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

Our Lake Cruiser

Skylen + Chance = Cutest Couple Ever

Bahama Mama

Beach Bum

I Love The Sand In My Toes, And In My Ears, And Up My Nose

Sink or Swim?

A Day At The Beach With Grandpa

Watch Out Lizard, Your Ours!!

Captain Zander!

My Last Summer Travels

2008-07-09T14:25:00.000-07:00

To celebrate and enjoy my last few weeks of summer break I am heading to Utah for a few weeks. First off my sister's family and I are driving to Page, AZ where we are meeting my parents and another family we are friends with at Lake Powell. We will be boating, wake boarding, tubing, sun bathing, and enjoying time with family and friends from Thursday to Sunday night. Then I am catching a ride to Salt Lake with my parents and chilling there for a week and a half doing who knows what. All I know is I am getting out of 115 degree weather. Even if it is 80's and 90's in Utah. Anything will seem cooler than here! I will stay plenty busy up in Salt Lake shopping, seeing movies, eating at my favorite resturants, and of course seeing my good friends and family. I will post pictures I am sure later!! Ciao!!

Dance Obsession

2008-07-08T14:54:00.000-07:00

Along with the Bachelorette, this summer I have been obsessed with the TV show, "So You Think You Can Dance." I try my hardest not to miss an episode. I love to see all the different styles of dance and what each dancer brings to the dance floor. This season is unbelievable. The talent this year is incredible!! I can't decide which is my favorite but I can't get enough to Twitch and Kherington, Courtney and Gev, and Katee and Josh. I hope I am not the only lame one out there obsessed!! Gotta love dance!!

Red Hot 4th

2008-07-06T13:00:00.001-07:00

Jon and I had a great holiday weekend! We started out celebrating Independence Day with doing a bit of manual labor (Jon likes to call it that). I call it brutal yard work. Imagine Ashlyn doing yard work. I know kinda crazy!! Especially in the Arizona heat at noon time. YIKES!! No, it wasn't THAT bad after I complained to Jon I was suffering from heat stroke. Jon kept telling me, "You're not dying... Keep going!!" Believe it or not we finished trimming my parents yard at about one in the afternoon. I guess I made it through knowing that it was my parents yard and it needed some TLC since they are in Utah for the summer. However, the one great thing about the yard work was that I got a pretty good tan!

After cooling off from our manual labor excitement we headed to do shopping for Jon. He needed some shoes for work. We lucked out and found many pairs of shoes for an unbeatable price. Gotta love the bargains!!

Now it came time to actually celebrate the 4th of July and we went over to my sister Tffany's place and had a yummy BBQ with hamburgers, 7 layer dip, fruit, baked beans, and all the other 4th of July BBQ essentials. We then cooled off with a dip in her new swimming pool. The kids had tons of fun with Uncle Jon and Aunt Ashlyn partying on the holiday weekend.

The rest of the weekend was way low key. I sat around Saturday and relaxed while Jon went to work. I hope everyone had a great 4th of July! Love ya!

BLOG UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2008-07-03T22:05:00.001-07:00

Hey guys just so you know I am playing around with this new program and so it is taking me awhile to get things put together. Sorry if it is a mess! Oh well! Enjoy!

Scrapbooking Fun

2008-06-29T09:56:00.001-07:00

Last night my sister Tiffany and I had the best time at the scrapbooking all nighter at the best scrapbook store in Arizona, Scrapbooks Etc. We spent 6 power hours cutting, glueing, placing, tying, and enjoying our masterpieces. It was a lot of fun and I am now going to become a crazy scrapbooker. I liked to scrapbook here and there in the past but with teaching and life I never found the time or space. Now that summer is here I have the time. Plus, we recently moved into our beautiful home and I am in the transition of making one of our bedrooms into a sheek and lovely scrapbooker's paradise. I am very excited and I hope it turns out great. Any ideas on scrapbooking/craft rooms cheap finds, don't hesitate to tell me!

High School Memories

2008-06-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

HIGH SCHOOL TAG

1. Did you date someone in high school? Yes... My senior year I dated Ryan Magaraci.

2. What kind of car did you drive? I started out with the cutest red honda civic but I got in a bad car accident my senior year (that wasn't my fault) and then replaced that ruined car with a 2002 silver civic, that I am still driving today!! Yeah!

3. It's Friday night, where are you? We were probably either at my house watching a movie in our theater, doing pranks with our guy pals, or chasing boys! :)

4. Were you a party animal? I loved to have fun!

5. Were you considered a flirt? Yes

6. Were you in band, orchestra, or choir? Nope

7. Were you a nerd? No

8. Did you get suspended or expelled? I never got in trouble in school. I was an angel but after school is where I enjoyed life! Ha Ha!

9. Can you sing the fight song? "A-L-T-A Who do you appreciate?" Okay that isn't it. Apparently I don't know the Alta Fight Song. I remember them singing it at all the games though. Does that count?

10. Who were your favorite teachers? Mr. Friesnect (I don't know how to spell) and Mrs. Hughes. Oh and that crazy sewing teacher!

11. Where did you sit at lunch? In someone's car or mine and we would always go out to lunch

12. What was your school's name? Alta High School

13. What was your school's mascot? Hawk

14. Did you go to Homecoming and who with? Yes, Mike Burningham

15. If you could go back and live it again would you? I don't know if I would relive High school cause it is such a petty game. But, I would love to go back to college. I LOVED COLLEGE DAYS!

16. What do you remember about graduation? Wearing a silver gown... That is sad I barely remember much.

17. Where did you go for your senior trip? Hawaii with Liz and April

18. Have you gain weight since then? Yeah.. Who hasn't?

19. Who was your prom date? Casey Ruff

20. Are you planning on going to your reunions? If I am in Utah I would love to.

21. Who were your best high school pals? Serena, Emily, Amorette, Julienne, Chloe, Liz, April, Amy, Erin, Bryn, Mike, Nate, Duff, Ryan, Shane, Justin, Emily H., and Nicole.

22. Do you keep in contact with people from high school? Most of them. My best friends I talk to often!

THIS TAG IS FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO REMEMBER THEIR HIGH SCHOOL DAYS!

Birth Control 101

2008-06-22T12:55:00.001-07:00

My sister Tiffany and her husband Eric needed a weekend getaway to relax. Jon and I were more than willing to take the kids while they go and enjoy themselves. We had so much fun this past week with Skylen who is almost 5 and Zander who is a 1 1/2. We started the babysitting on Wednesday afternoon and first went to the puppy story at San Tan mall and got ice cream. Then Thursday Jon had school and so I took the kids to the Power Ranch park where I live and they played in the shooting fountains and fed the ducks. Friday Skylen and I had a girls day and we went to lunch at Chilis and then went and saw "Kung Fu Panda" (which by the way is a very cute movie). Then yesterday which was Saturday we went swimming and to dinner at Jon's parents house.

The entire weekend was a huge party! The kids had fun, Jon and I got good birth control, and mommy and daddy enjoyed themselves in Cantalina.

I Love You Babe!

2008-06-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Today is a special day because we get to celebrate our wonderful fathers and Jon and I get to also celebrate our 2nd wedding anniversary! It has been the best two years of my life to have my wonderful Jon by my side. Everything about him makes my heart still skip a beat even after two years. He trully is my love of my life. We have been through a lot and I don't know what I would do without him. He is the best husband, friend, son, and brother anyone could have. Every year we share together gets better and better. I just wanted to say very quick, I love you babe and thank you again for everything you do each day for me and us!