Meet my BFFs: Rebecca

Steve and Rebecca (+ baby bump!) this year on her birthday in Palm Springs (at the top of the mountain, hence the coat.)

Happy (belated! :( ) birthday Rebecca! I can't put into words what a jerk I feel like that this is two days late. A combo of temperamental internet, poor planning, and committing myself to too many other things that kept me away from the computer are to blame.

One thing I can tell you about my sister is that she'd never be writing a paragraph like this one, because she is one of the most organized, punctual people I know. Even being a mom of two (soon to be three!) she's just got it together. I don't want to make anyone feel bad, but she's really one of the best mothers I know. She is blessed to be at home with the kids and really makes the most of it. They're always going to museums, the beach, play dates, the pool, etc etc etc. Her kids are well behaved, happy, and well mannered.

She is the kind of person who you can just count on. She will never commit to something and then not follow through. She is honest, fair, and has no guile. She would never even consider doing something that would cheat anyone out of anything. She stands up for what's right, makes her home a place where the Spirit always resides, and welcomes everyone. She is easy to please, easy going, and happy to just be with her family. She's unpretentious, patient, and just plain good. She's real. She has her priorities in order and has her head on straight. I can't even tell you how many times when talking about my sister to friends or other family I've simply said, "She's just got it together." There's no other way to put it.

I love you Rebecca, and hope you have had a wonderful birthday week. Thank you for your constant example which makes me want to be better. Thank you for raising such wonderful kids who bring me happiness I've never known.

And to anyone else who's reading this, I'd link her blog but she's private, so feel free to leave your happy birthday messages on my blog for her to see!

Ryan and Megan this year visiting the flower fields in Carlsbad.

An oldie but goodie. My mom, Rebecca, and me celebrating her birthday in 2006 at my grandparents' in Rexburg.

Describe your perfect day.

Sleep in, perfect weather, uncrowded Disney Land with the family, everyone is happy, kids in bed early, hang out with Steve.

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose?

LOST

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

I'm pretty much an open book, so I'm not sure???

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

Steve coming home from work!

Who's your celebrity crush?

Has always been Tom Cruise (since Top Gun.) Brad Pitt is up there too though.

What's one of your favorite childhood memories?

Family vacations and time with grandparents.

What's one of your guiltiest pleasures?

Chocolate.

If you could change one thing about the male race what would it be?

??? I asked Steve if he could think of something that I have complained about and he said, "Make them less hairy." Haha, Steve barely has any hair, but he knows that was an issue with people I dated in the past.

What's one of your favorite things about living in southern California?

The weather!

What's your favorite part of being a mom?

Watching the kids discover and accomplish new things.

What book(s) are you currently reading?

Just my scriptures.

What's your favorite comfort food?

Sugar and bread.

If I gave you $100,000 with the stipulation that you couldn't save it or invest it, and had to spend it within a week, what would you do with it?

Maybe buy two new cars, since we have had car problems with both lately, a big TV and entertainment center/home theater, give some to humanitarian aid or family/friends in need.

What is a piece of modern technology you could not live without?

Cell phone, computer.

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

Maui.

What book should be required reading for every American?

I know it sounds cliche, but the Book of Mormon.

You've been married for almost nine years. Is there anything that still surprises you?

Yes, but I can't say it out loud. :)

You're killing me! Maybe you should email me your answer. :)

You've got two round trip tickets to anywhere in the world. Where do you go and who do you take?

Europe and Steve.

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, which one would you go to?

U2

What's one of your biggest pet peeves?

Flaky, lazy people.

If you had an hour all to yourself, how would you spend it?

I might relax or I might clean/organize the house, or I might run errands, or I might make some phone calls...the possibilities are endless!

What three material possessions do you value most?

Home, cars, cell phone.

What are you looking forward to?

I'm always looking forward to something, but try to enjoy the moment too. Kids grow up way too fast!

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

Traveling the world (aren't we all?), serving a mission with Steve, watching grand kids grow.

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

Steve, my kids, Ricks College, my parents/grandparents, and Carole Brown.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Study harder in school.

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

The Gospel

Meet my BFFs: Brad

Brad's first visit after I moved to New York, 2007

It's Brad's birthday!  It would surprise few to mention the fact that Brad and I are close.  When we were younger we were always in different phases of life (he was the cool high schooler, I was the annoying kid sister in elementary school always looking for a ride.)  However during the window of time when Jason was on his mission and Rebecca was living in Boston, he and I were both college students in the Mormon belt, and got to know each other better as friends, and have only gotten closer as time went on.  We share a lot in common, mostly our senses of humor.  You can often find our whole family at the dinner table, and Brad and I will be hunched over our plates with tears streaming down our faces, which are beet red from laughter.  Everyone else will be looking at us either confused or just rolling their eyes.

Maybe the only thing we don't have in common (as you may already know) is our dedication to our favorite professional sports teams, which just so happen to be bitter rivals.  If you could read emails and texts exchanged between us from April-November (and even sometimes during the off season) you'd see a whole lotta trash talk.

One of Brad's strongest qualities I admire is his huge heart.  I can remember from an early age Brad always had a soft heart.  I can even remember as far back as when I didn't go to school yet, and one particular morning when all the other kids in our family were leaving for school, I was so sad and started to cry because I didn't want them to leave.  Brad being the tender guy that he is gave me a quarter and all was made better.  (Guess I was easily bought even in the early years.)

Anyway, even though all my family is out west, as well as Nadia's family, I'm selfishly grateful to have Brad, Nad, and Mad just a four hour bus ride away.  Brad is so great to always see me whenever he's in town on business, and they're always so welcoming for me to come stay with them at any time.

Happy birthday Brad!  My love for you has only grown as I've watched you become a husband, and more recently a father.  You continue to to amaze me with your talents, willingness to sacrifice for your family, and never ending love.  (Not to mention, I love you because you're freaking hilarious.)  :)

What do you do?

1. Husband

2. Dad

3. Serve

4.  a. Sell medical devices

b. Boston Red Sox Fan

Describe your perfect day.

Sleep in.  Southern California, 77 degrees, beach, clear skies, good food, whole famdamily over for dinner at the house.  Maybe watch a good game at night.  No phone.  No email.  No blackberry.

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose?

ESNP Sports Center and catch The Soup during commercial breaks.

(Mmmm, I love me some Soup!)

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

I like to draw, but suck.  Wish I played an instrument.

(Lies, he's a great artist, just never shows anyone anything.)

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

A good run, but on the 364 other days of the year something greasy, followed by something sweet.  When that fails, Nad always is there to pick me up.

Who's your celebrity crush?

Female: Marissa Miller

Man crush: Dan Patrick

What's one of your favorite childhood memories?

Sports with Dad and Jason.  Fishing with Jason.

What's one of your guiltiest pleasures?

Snowballs, and maybe rap.  I mean, am I gonna listen forever?

If you could change one thing about the female race what would it be?

That's a no-win.

You've been married for over five years.  Is there anything that still surprises you?

How little I know.

If there was one year you could go back and relive, either to make changes or just because you had so much fun, what year would you pick and why?

Probably second or third year back from my mission.  It was a lot of carefree fun and I would make a few changes.

What's one of your favorite things about living in Boston?

Great city, great sports, great people, great feel.

What's your favorite part about being a dad?

Seeing the hope and love in her eyes and countenance.

What book are you currently reading?

Just finished a good one, The Expedition, and just picked up The Bourne Identity.

If I gave you $100,000 with the stipulation that you couldn't save it or invest it, and had to spend it within a week, what would you do with it?

Buy a hacienda...is real estate an investment?

What is a piece of modern technology that you could not live without?

Crackberry

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

Is Rome, Austria, Costa Rica, Havasuppai a place?

What book should be required reading for (every American) everyone?

Jesus the Christ

(Parentheses around original question.)

You've got two roundtrip tickets anywhere in the world.  Where do you go and who do you take?

Egypt, Nadster

What three material possessions do you value most?

Journal, picture books, MJ autograph

What are you looking forward to?

Closing the next deal.

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

Travel: Walk the Great Wall/Explore the Pyramids

Accomplish: Run a marathon with kid(s)

Learn: Water ski barefoot

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

Nad

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Fight for everything.  Even the little things.

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

The gospel, and I'll always hate the Yankees.

Meet my BFFs: Elise

Jason and Elise

Hawaii June 2009

Today's Elise's birthday!  Boy did I luck out in the sister-in-law department (I guess maybe it has something to do with having awesome brothers with great taste?)  Elise has been a part of our family for three and a half years but even before it was "official" she felt like a sister.  My favorite memories with Elise are when she and Jason were dating and I'd come to Provo and stay with her and after Jason would go home we'd stay up talking and laughing.  I can always count on Elise to never get sick of my lengthy stories, and in fact she encourages them, especially dating stories.  

One of my absolute favorite things about Elise is I can always catch her eye when we're in a group setting and something happens that's awkward, weird, or just one of those "yikes" moments.  Every time, without fail.  Even when I don't think about it, our eyes just catch, and depending on the situation, we either laugh, shake our heads, or both our eyes just get huge.  Maybe you have to experience it, but it's a connection we always have.

I can also always feel confident that I can text Elise with any little gripe and she'll totally understand, whether it's when I'm sitting in the chapel and it's ten minutes after and we still haven't started, or telling her about something totally tacky someone said.  She just gets it.

I have to say, when reading Elise's interview she answered (for the most part) in ways I could have guessed.  I was surprised a couple times, but her answers reminded me why I love her so much.  With Elise, I always know what I'm going to get.  There's nothing too unpredictable.  She is stable, dependable, organized, and just, well, together.  What you see is what you get.

Lastly, I love love love that, just like Nadia is for Brad, Elise is absolutely perfect for Jason.  I used to think that Jason changed so much (in a good way) when Elise came into his life, but now I realize he didn't change at all, he just became a more complete and better version of himself.  The longer they are married the more in love I see they are, and really it's just pretty inspiring.  (If you don't believe how in love they are, just check Jason's facebook status today.) :)

Anyways, happy birthday Elise!  I love you! 

What do you do?

I am a teacher.  High school.  United States & World History.  Everyone asks me if it is scary.  It isn't.  The kids are really good & I actually love it a lot.

(Elise has some pretty awesome stories as well.)

Describe your perfect day.

Sleep in (this means until like 7am.)  Start off with a massage, mani & pedi.  Go to the beach (with Jason) for a few hours with a good book (or Us Weekly) in one hand & a huge fountain Diet Coke in the other.  Go shopping (alone) for a few hours with no budget.  Go to dinner with Jason at Ruth's Chris.

(I'm with you on shopping alone.  Love it.)

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, what would you pick?

Coldplay.  I have wanted to see them for years & years.  But you're off the hook because I'm going tomorrow.

If you only have time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose?

Law & Order.  The original.  No Criminal Intent.  No SVU.  Give me Jack McCoy.  All time favorite TV show.

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

I don't like group settings.  I would much rather hang out with one or two friends than in a group of 3-4+.  I tend to get shy & quiet when I am in big groups.

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

Taking a long nap on the couch & getting frozen yogurt.

If I gave you $100,000 with the stipulation that you couldn't save it or invest it, and had to spend it within a week, what would you do with it?

I don't need a week.  I could spend it in a day!  First, buy Jason a car.  Second, buy a new car for myself.  And if there is any left over, I'd buy some combination of clothes & shoes.

(Oh!  What kind of cars??)

What beauty product can you not live without?

Mascara.

What's one of your guiltiest pleasures?

Keeping Up With the Kardashians.

(Okay I SO did not know this!  I love that show!  So dumb but I think they are seriously so funny!)

If you could change one thing about the male race what would it be?

Hmmmm.  This is tough.  My exposure to males that I know really well is limited & I hate to make stereotypes, but I'd have to say that sometimes girls just want to vent & don't want advice or want their problems solve.

(So true.  I think every female agrees with you.)

You've been married for three and a half years.  Is there anything that still surprises you?  Or would you say you and Jason are perfectly predictable?

I don't know if I would say perfectly predictable, because you never know.  But we do mesh & know each other really well, so surprises are few and far between.

What's your favorite comfort food?

Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup.

What is one trend you just never quite understood?

Those oxford booties that were popular a couple falls ago.  Hideous.  Oh.  I saw a pair of Tory Burch jelly shoes today at the mall.  If that catches on, I'm pretty sure that will be the winner.

(I don't care what you say, I love those oxford booties!  :))

What's one of your favorite things about living in San Diego?

The weather.  And being close to our family.

What book are you currently reading?

In the Time of the Butterflies.  I just started it...only about 8 pages in.

What is a piece of modern technology that you could not live without?

Google.

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

Grand Cayman.

What book should be required reading for every American?

Well, it isn't a book, but The Declaration of Independence.

You've got two roundtrip tickets anywhere in the world.  Where do you go and who do you take?

I'd take Jason.  Can I pick 3 places?  Okay, good.  For the history lover in me-Paris.  For the adventurer in me-Machu Picchu.  For the I just want to lay on the beach in the sun part of me-Phuket, Thailand.

(Those three are totally on my list as well.)

What three material possessions do you value most?

My wedding ring (because of the sentimental value), my computer (all the pictures), and my bed-our mattress & sheets are heavenly.

(A girl after my own heart.  A heavenly mattress and sheets are a must.)

What are you looking forward to?

The next 5 years.

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

1. See the above travel question.

2. Run a marathon.

3. Add more items to my bucket list.  (I really can't think of anything that I just have to do!)

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

I'm going to go with the easy answers here, only because they are so true.  My parents & my husband.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Your mom is totally right when she tells you to enjoy eating carne asada fries for lunch every day while you can.  Someday (read 21) you won't metabolize them and they will go straight to your hips & love handles and you will hate going to the gym.

(That Leslie, she is one smart woman!)

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

Complaining & worrying about little things are a waste of time.  Enjoy life.  Be grateful for what you have, spend time with people you love, & laugh.

Meet my BFFs: Maria & Britt

Britt, me, and Maria celebrating our birthdays

I am so excited to introduce you to my NYC BFFs.  

Brittany is a southern darling.  She's always got a piece of southern advice to pass along for any occasion.  She's the adorable girly girl that can hang with the guys.  She's an amazing cook, and one of the most compassionate, generous, and thoughtful friends I've ever had.

Maria is brilliant.  She spells success in every way possible.  She is wise beyond her years, and doesn't sweat the small stuff.  Truly an old soul.  She's the most level headed girl I've ever known.  She keeps me grounded, and inspires me to just be better.  

Both of these girls are always down for everything.  I can always depend on them and they never let me down.

They are my go-to girls, the top of my Fave 5, and anything and everything a girl needs.  They have been so supportive through so much, and I can honestly say I'm a better person for having them both in my life.  They have inspired me, lifted me up, cried with me, and made me laugh until I was on the floor in hysterics.  I can always count on them for anything I need, whether it's a shoulder to cry on, a friend to go out to eat with, or someone to keep me in check when I'm contemplating a bad decision.  (Or push me over the edge when I'm considering a pricey new gift for myself.)  

If I'm thinking of going out with an ex, I'll get the famous line, "What would be the point of that?"  If I'm considering buying an ugly dress, I'll get, "I don't like that."  If it's a date I'm rehashing that didn't go so well, or I'm wondering about something a guy said, there's no hesitation with, "That's weird."  They'll call me out when I'm being ridiculous, and carry me when I'm feeling low.  Never in my life have I had friends that can be so honest, in such a non threatening way.  I truly feel safe with these girls.  (Even when I try to escape the city and keep it a secret, they can always figure me out, and never get mad at me.)  :)  

They are my truest friends here, that really just get me.  They're angels in my life.  

In so many ways they are so opposite, but they go together like peanut butter and chocolate, which is why it made perfect sense to write their post together.  If you don't know these girls you need to get to know them.  I laughed and cried while reading their answers.  They are so SO Maria and Britt.

I love you so much darlings!

What do you do in the city?

B: I work in the fashion office at Macy's.

M: I work too much most of the time.  I eat a lot too.

Where's your favorite place to go in the city?

B: Bryant Park

M: The temple-cheesy I know, but it is the truth.

(If you want a sweet story, ask Britt why.)

What would you do if you randomly had the day off work?

B: Go to brunch, shopping and then to a baseball game.

M: Sleep and then go to a matinee Broadway show.

(I think we need to arrange a day off sometime ladies.)

Living in NYC on a budget is tough; what's something on which you're willing to splurge?

B: Throwing parties and dinners for friends. Your friends really become your family here.

M: I have splurging problems.  I don't want to answer this.  :)  Whatever it is, it would cost $10,000.00.

(So true.  SO TRUE.  Hahahaha.)

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, what would you pick?

B: Upgrade me to front row at B. Spears and I'll be your bff forever!

M: Coldplay-I totally got screwed out of tickets once, so I feel like I deserve to see them and get really awesome seats.

(B, I'm working on it.  And Maria's story?  I've heard it.  She does deserve them.)

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose?

B: 24.  Jack Bauer is hot!

M: How I Met Your Mother.  Love that show.

(B-Indeed!  M-Still never seen an epi.  Perhaps once we're roomies again?)

What makes for a perfect date?

B: Preparation and conversation that leads to laughing.

M: If he genuinely makes me laugh AND I'm attracted to him.  I'm easy to please.

(Guys, are you taking notes?)

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

B: I change clothes at least 5 times a day.

M: I'm kinda sensitive.

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

B: Dancing and Ben and Jerry's coffee heath bar crunch ice cream.

M: Hearing my mom's voice.

Who's your celebrity crush?

B: Older- Daniel Craig

Younger- Shia Labeouf

M: I'm lame-I don't have crushes.  I'm not lying.  I can never answer this question and I hate it that I can't answer.

(Maria, I so knew this would be your answer.  When we find you that guy that makes you twitterpaited we'll know he's the one.)

What are your dating pet peeves?

B: Vague-ness... use your words, men.

M: When the guy thinks he is smarter than me...he has been wrong every time...every time.

(Seriously guys....did I mention she's brilliant?)

What beauty product can you not live without?

B: Urban Decay eyeliner. It stays on forever!

M: Moisturizer

If you could change one thing about the male race what would it be?

B: Nothing. I like them the way they are.  I just wish I could understand their thought process.

M: I would make it so they could actually use complete sentences when conversations get serious.

What's your favorite comfort food?

B: Any kind of southern cookin': mashed potatoes, fried okra, BBQ...

M: Mac & Cheese

What is one trend you just never quite understood?

B: Black nail polish

M: Capris-even though I gave in a little bit myself.

What's your favorite restaurant in the city?

B: Kittichai on Thompson St. Great atmosphere for dinner.

M: Shake Shack-lame but true.

What book are you currently reading?

B: The Alchemist and Girls in Trucks

M: Dandeline Wine

You've got two round trip tickets anywhere in the world. Where do you go and who do you take?

B: Egypt (I've been dying to go!), and taking Shia Labeouf...duh.

M: I would take my sister to Greece-she has always wanted to go.

What three possessions do you value most?

B: My journals, my music, my pearl earrings

M: Laptop, bed, iPod

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

B: Ms. Folsom, for instilling in me a love for music and all performance art.

M: Mr. Perkins, a high school teacher of mine that supported my decision to go to college at the age of 15.  He gave the best advice.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

B: Life is not a race, so stop and smell the roses.

M: Don't stop dancing.  You are actually quite good.  It will be your only regret.  Oh yeah, and you will get kinda fat when you stop.  True statement.

(So NOT a true statement!!)

In your opinion, what is the most overrated thing about the city?

B: The nightlife. Going out can be fun, but 9 times out of 10, clubs are ghetto and shady.

M: Oh...so so many things.  Ummmm....best food in the world....notsomuch.

(B, SO true!)

What is a piece of modern technology that you could not live without?

B: My iPod

M: Phone

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

B: "Kindness and compassion are never out of date or out of style."

M: I am a daughter of God.  He knows me, He loves me.

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

B: Venice, Italy.

M: Hawaii-on a mountain top with my family, looking at the ocean.

What book should be required reading for every American?

B: The Travels of a T-shit in a Global Economy by Pietra Rivoli

M: To Kill a Mockingbird

What are you looking forward to?

B: Graduating 

M: Vacationing in Europe!

(Britt is not only full time employed, she's also a student at the prestigious FIT.)

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

B: Learn to make a Hawaiian quilt, travel to every continent, live a life that will inspire others.

M: Run a marathon, take a safari trip to South Africa, kiss all my grandkids' chubby baby cheeks.  I still want to be around to meet them all.

(B, you can check off number three.  M, I'll help you next year with number two.  And perhaps we can help each other with number one?  It's on my list as well.)

Meet my BFFS: Nad

Nadia, Madeline, and Brad

aka "Bradialine"

It's Nadia's birthday today!  Hip hip hooray!  I got to thinking about it, and even though all my siblings, and in-laws, have blogs, they're all much more humble than I, and rarely will talk about themselves.  I think this is so sad because, well, they're all really cool.  So to honor Nad on her birthday, I thought I would interview her so you all could learn a little more about her.

When reading her answers I found myself laughing out loud one minute, and tearing up a little the next.  This is exactly my relationship with Nadia.  When we get together we're always laughing, however at times we can have very deep conversations that might make me shed a tear or two (in a good way) and leave me always feeling closer to this sister-in-law of mine whom I'm so blessed to have in my life.  (Good job picking such a great one Brad.)  :)

Anyway, I hope you enjoy reading Nadia's interview as much as I did.

Happy birthday Nad!  I love you!  (And to everyone else, a happy 4th of July!)

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day would consist of being surrounded by the people I love. Of course, we would spend the day at my summer home in Greece, swimming and sailing in turquoise water, then lunch with the locals and off to the Hellenic Festival, for theater and dancing…

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, what would you pick?

Until a few days ago it would have been Michael Jackson – without a doubt. Now that that’s not an option, I still love Brit. So I guess Brittney Spears.

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose? 

TMZ

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

I hate surprises, I know it sounds weird. It’s not like I don’t like the “surprise I got you a gift, for no reason” it’s the surprises that need planning – visitors, trips… also, I’ve realized half the time I don’t even know what I want, so I’m very hard to buy for. It takes a special person to know what I will like.

(Except of course visitors from New York showing up on your doorstep, right?:)

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

A cozy blanket and a good movie or book.

Who's your celebrity crush?

Bear Grylls but that’s no surprise. Sooo I’ll add another - Christian Bale.

What beauty product can you not live without?

Just one?? How about 3 - Mascara, lip stuff and lotion

What's one of your guiltiest pleasures?

I’ll give you two, one for the tummy and one for the funny bone. See’s Chocolate and Katie and Peter, if you don’t know it you are better off – trust me.

If you could change one thing about the male race what would it be?

I wouldn’t mind if they took a little better care of their feet. A quick pedi wouldn’t hurt.

You've been married for five years. Is there anything that still surprises you? Or would you say you and Brad are perfectly predictable?

Well, of course there are always surprises. I think on the outside looking in we are pretty predictable, but we have our little quirks just like everyone else.

What's your favorite comfort food?

Carbs – Is that a food?

I love bread, potatoes…all that stuff. And I’m always up for a lil Mexican Food. LOL, for real I LOVE Mexican.

What is one trend you just never quite understood? 

Skinny jeans for guys …

(Amen!)

What's one of your favorite things about living in Boston?

The Red Sox, not just the team but the games, the players and the people who cheer for the team. Those people make the Red Sox who they are. The people here are amazing. If you have never been to a game at Fenway Park I highly suggest it. It’s an awesome experience whether you like the teams that are playing or not. 

What's your favorite part about being a mom?

Being a mom is the thing that brings me the most happiness I have ever known. One of my favorite things is seeing the world through Maddie’s eyes. Everything is so new and exciting.

What book are you currently reading?

Beyond the Myth: The Story of Joan of Arc (plus a few others on the side.)

What is a piece of modern technology that you could not live without? 

Computer (we have a love hate relationship) oooh and my camera!!

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

Costa Rica - The Rain Forest.

What book should be required reading for every American?

Oh man, I love to read! I cant possibly pick one. Follow the River by James Alexander, The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann Wyss and Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

You've got two roundtrip tickets anywhere in the world. Where do you go and who do you take?

Ummm, ok can I make a few stops with those tickets?  I would go all over Europe, Africa, Egypt, Greece and Peru (and I mean anywhere and everywhere.)  And I would take Brad.

What three material possessions do you value most?

My wedding ring, because it’s from my sweetheart. A life time worth of pictures; But most of all, recent gift from my dad that his dad (my Grandpa) had given to my Grandma at a very special time in their lives. Both my Grandparents are gone now which is part of the reason I value this more then anything.

What are you looking forward to?

Learning and having as many new experiences as I can, and watching my kids grow up.

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

Skydive, bungee jump and travel to as many countries as possible. I’m trying to talk Brad into “the ticket around the world” (and yes there really is such a thing.)

(I may join you on that round the world ticket, I've been checking those out as well!  I'm obsessed.)

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

My daughter Madeline. I’m not the same person I once was. Being a mom has changed me in a hundred ways, and I wouldn’t change any of them. Also my mom, I could go on for days about her but instead I'll just say, if I can be half the mom she is to me I will know I have given my kids the best of me.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t worry so much about what other people think. Take care of yourself and the people you love and the rest will work it self out.

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

I know that if I live this life to the best of my ability I can be with my family for all eternity. Nothing makes me happier than knowing the people I love will never be very far away.

Meet my BFFs: Aim Brow

Aimee and I met while we were living at the Ridge at BYUI in fall semester 2005. She lived above me and was one of those girls I saw all summer but never actually knew. All I could ever think was, "There's that gorgeous girl who's incredibly skinny, has amazing hair, and the best clothes." Little did I know we'd finally meet the first Sunday of fall semester and become instant BFFs over discussion of missionaries.

Aim rivals Mikey for my funniest friend.  You wouldn't really know it right away, as she can come off a little quiet at first, however once you get to know Aimee you quickly fall in love with her quick wit and random humor.

Even though Aimee and I were neighbors for only a year it seems like so much more.  We had the best times, and made so many memories over that year, and since then.  I could never choose my favorite (as I tried unsuccessfully to make her do, in the interview) because we've had so many amazing times.  I loved converting her to Gringo's and going for amazing gossip sessions, sharing ridiculous dating stories, talking on facebook in code, and discussing politics even though her super liberal views rarely have anything in common with my conservative beliefs.  We always find a way to disagree without having any contention.  We are able to learn so much from each other, and no matter how much time passes in between visits or phone calls, we always pick up right where we left off.  One of my favorite things is getting voicemails from Aimee.  Since we have a tough time getting in touch with each other frequently we've started leaving long voicemails for each other, catching each other up.  There's nothing like listening to a four minute voicemail from Aim.  I've saved many messages from her, and played them over and over, laughing every time.

I feel truly safe with Aimee Jo.  I can confide anything, and show her my truest self.  (Not to mention I can always count on her to make me feel justified in my spending splurges.)  :)  I can honestly say she might be my most supportive and nonjudgmental friend, especially when it comes to dating.  Aimee is a wonderful listener, and always there when I need her.  She's able to turn on her skills of therapy in a non threatening way, and I always feel like our conversations end with me feeling like I have so many answers I was looking for.

Aimee has such a huge heart, always looking to help out those less fortunate than her, and wanting to lift up her friends and acquaintances when they're down.  I love Aim so much, and am so blessed to have her in my life.

At Rigby Lake, most likely gossiping.

Where do you live?

Canyon Country, Ca...but as soon as I find an apartment in LA I will be moving (yay!)

What do you do for a living?

I am a Children's Social Worker for LA county.

What's your favorite thing you've done in New York?

Wow...it feels like I have so many but I've only been there twice!  Last year I went there on my birthday and that was pretty fun.  I ate at Chocolate by the Bald Man (in my track suit because my luggage was lost!)  It was amazing.  Great food, great company.  :)

What would you do if you randomly had the day off work?

This happens to me sometimes (when I call in sick ;) and I lay by the pool and read.

Living in LA on a budget is tough; what's something on which you're willing to splurge?

Pedicures, spray tan in the winter, and Mac makeup.  And shoes and handbags.  Okay I like to splurge.  That is why I'm still driving the same little green car my dad bought me back in college.  Haha.  But I've turned over a new leaf in 2009!  Not only have I cut most of those things out (Mac makeup excluded) but I am now putting away for a car.  At the rate I'm going I just might have one by 2020!  (Just kidding.)

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, what would you pick?

Hm...Radiohead or Beyonce...

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose?

Oprah and Biggest Loser are tied.  (Sorry ANTM.)

(Aim I have to say, I totally thought you'd go with ANTM.  And how did I not know we shared the same obsession for Biggest Loser???)

What makes for a perfect date?

A great make out...just kidding.  Um...doing something fun but not too cheesy, dinner at a great restaurant...and then followed by a hot make out on the beach (ok so I wasn't kidding.)

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

That I used to play water polo in high school.  I don't consider myself athletic.  Neither do my friends.

(I admit it, I'm totally surprised.  I thought you were just a hippie in high school.)

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

Chatting with a friend, or lighting some candles and watching Oprah on my chouch (half chair half couch.)  And of course shopping!

Who's your celebrity crush?

Pharrell Williams. So hot.

Who's someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

Well I would definitely say Rachel has.

(Likewise love.)

After the big haircut.  Aim came along to hold my hand, and was the best support.

What book are you currently reading?

Too many.  But the last one I started is called Thorn Birds.  I'm only two pages in.

What beauty product can you not live without?

ZOOMLASH

(A girl after my own heart.)

What's one trend that totally victimized you?

When we lived in Rexburg I think I fell victim to a lot of bad trends...I can't be held accountable for that portion of my life because the closest store we had to shop in was Wal Mart.  It was not my fault.

(I can promise you that Aim was always dressed to impress.)

What's your favorite comfort food?

Cupcakes.

You've got two roundtrip tickets anywhere in the world.  Where do you go and who do you take?

Africa, and I'd take Oprah.  Just kidding, I have been saying for years that I want to go to Africa but recently I have really been wanting to visit China, and I think I'd take my favorite travel buddies, Rae Hoe, TonEva, Gordon, and Shantay.

(I'm in!!  Let's do Hong Kong or Africa 2010!!)

At the NBC store during our spring break trip to New York: 

Shantay, Aimee, Jordan, me, Toni.

What's your favorite memory of the two of us together?

OMG.  This is so hard, but if you had a gun to my head and you were making me choose I'd say...wow this is so hard.  Can I name a few???  Ok...since we were just talking about it this morning, late nights at Danny's, skinny dipping, NY, riding in Cinco after hot tubbing, trying on church outfits at night, riding around in Alfie around the Ridge being crime stoppers, spin the bottle at Joshua Tree, and...I remember actually right after we first met in the hall of the Benson during church in the 49th ward she came up to my apartment one night (I think she caught me trying on church outfits in the mirror that night too) and brought me a card after I had just broken up with my boyfriend.  Rae is the best at card giving, among other things.

(None of this is quite as scandalous as it sounds...Aim, my favorite time after hottubbing was the time a certain nameless someone accidently dropped the f-bomb while singing along with Kanye.  And I was never the one trying on Sunday outfits, haha.)

Aimee and I with BFF Chelse the night of the skinny dipping, for which Aim's been in trouble way too many times.

On top of the Empire State Building.

What three possessions do you value most?

I don't have anything that valuable...but I guess I would say my semi-new grey handbag because it's been a great staple item lately, my new county badge (it makes me feel so official and reminds me how happy I am to have my new job,) and I guess my GPS because I wasn't really using it until I got my new job and now I am glad I have it otherwise I would be completely lost in LA.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

I would have told myself to avoid dating a few guys that I ended up dating!  What was I thinking!?

(Dodging bullets Aim, dodging bullets.  Besides, we'd be without SO many hilarious stories if you wouldn't have dated them!)

*Some questions stolen from Natalie.