Shane + Kenzie

we are family.

2012-01-19T21:11:00.002-07:00

FERGUSON FAMILY PICTURES, JULY 2011

STRATFORD FAMILY PICTURES, AUGUST 2011

set backs & still moving forward

2012-01-15T22:49:00.000-07:00

A week ago I went in for another surgery on my right TMJ and a tissue graft for my gums. One of these days I'm certain this will all be behind us, but for now I'll be slurping on smoothies and dreaming about chewing anything once these three weeks are over...
On the upside, there are so many great things happening in our lives. Shane has officially graduated with his RN degree from Weber State University, and we just found out that he successfully passed his board exams. Shane was approached by a manager at Intermountain Medical Center and asked if he would be a nurse there before he had even applied for the job, and he will be able to still work in the OR - just what he loves most. He is continuing his education and will earn his BSN in December. I can't even express how proud I am of this guy...nursing school was no easy experience for either of us, but HE got us through it with flying colors.
Currently we are in Newport Beach California enjoying the hues of blue and green all around us. We were lucky enough to tag along with my parents to their timeshare to give Shane some time to relax after graduation, and allow me some time to heal and not be swarmed with teaching and my calling right after my operations. What a wonderful way to relax together!
Shane and I have been commenting about how abundantly blessed we have been lately...it is clearly obvious to us that the Lord has a plan, and when we give, so will he. Trials will be followed by blessings - of this we are sure because we have experienced it over and over throughout our 4 1/2 years of beautiful marriage.
We love you, our family and friends, for uplifting us during every set back...it's you who help us to keep moving forward with a skip in our step and our chins held toward the sun. Thank you!

Finding our own 'Happily Ever After'

2011-12-26T12:24:00.000-07:00

Let love be your shelter. The world is noisy and confusing at times, so make a home that is a haven, a peaceful place where you can listen to your hearts and savor the comfortable closeness you share.

No matter how busy your days may be, make time for yourselves. Hold hands. Unwind. Surprise each other. Find little chances every day to show you're grateful to be partners, to be friends, to be married.

Life is not perfect. You will make mistakes. But each time you meet life's challenges together, you will grow wiser, stronger, and surer of your love.

Cherish your yesterdays...they are irreplaceable souvenirs of your journey through life. Make memories that will bring back smiles and sighs whenever you look back. (Look back often!)

Look forward, too.

Dream together. Plan together

Make promises to keep.

Believe in your tomorrows,

Because tomorrows are what forever is made of.

(AUTHOR UNKNOWN)

Falling behind

2011-12-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

Currently I feel like my life has been tossed into a washing machine! It's been a CRAZY filled month.
Our ward of 500+ members split. The split was hard for me...I am not an individual who embraces change well, and I was worried about how the primary children in our ward would be affected by the change too. I prayed for peace and comfort not only for me, but for them; I felt an overwhelming sense of the spirit as I asked my Heavenly Father to bless each of them with my love.
Less than a week later Shane and I were called to meet with the Bishop where I received a new calling in our newly split ward. The spirit was felt so strongly in that little room as I was asked to serve as the new Primary President. I knew that the feelings I had felt throughout the week for those cute children were from my Savior, and I felt so blessed to be able to serve them. Since I was called, I have been overwhelmed at the way the spirit has guided my thoughts and actions to serve... my counselors and secretary are such amazing women who uplift and support me every day, and have already worked countless hours dealing with the changes that happened in Primary from the split.
If any of you have been in Primary before, you know that December is the BUSIEST month of the year! So many changes need to be made and put into effect; theme boards need to be updated, new ideas for the upcoming year need to be planned, classrooms need to be decided, TEACHERS need to be decided (which was incredibly difficult...since I have become the President 14 new individuals have needed to be called), teacher training, nursery training, new binders, Christmas gifts, birthday gifts, etc etc etc. It has not been easy. Because of the ward split so many changes had to be made to primary...instead of 2 sharing times, now we only have one. But because of that, we had to be sure we had enough classrooms, and how would the children react to being in one sharing time together? They've never had to do that before... How would we do our opening exercises being combined? Oh yes, and I forgot to add that my sweet husband was realeased as the Young Men's Secretary to be our new... SCOUTMASTER. Yes - I cried when he received the calling, however, I couldn't think of anyone better for the job...I just need to prepare to see him even less than I already do!
The amazing part of all of this is that through all the hustle and bustle to get everything ready for 2012, I have felt my love for each of the children in our ward grow every day. The Lord truly works in mysterious ways, and I feel so blessed that I have so many children to make my life feel a little more complete. They bring SO much joy to my heart! I pray that they will always know of my love for them, and that I can be an influence for the better in each of their lives.

our very expensive kitty...

2011-11-28T22:29:00.001-07:00

Our adorable kitty, Duke, had to have emergency surgery one week ago today. Sunday at 3:00 am, poor Duke became incredibly ill. He couldn't keep anything down, even one tiny sip of water. I was pacing around the house trying to figure out what was wrong when I found a little piece of ribbon that looked like it had been chewed on one side. By Monday morning I took him into the vet. The vet couldn't see anything from the x-ray but because we figured he had eaten ribbon he knew that Duke needed surgery...fast.

They rushed my poor, sick kitty into surgery where they shaved the fur off his belly and opened him up. The vet found a rib sized ribbon that had rolled itself up and became lodged in his small intestine. If it hadn't have been found Duke would have died in only a few days from a bowel obstruction.

It was very difficult for Duke to move for the first couple of days, but his medication made him so sweet! He was obsessed with his hairbrush, and all he wanted was to be pet...over, and over, and over again. The really hard thing about it all was that we couldn't hold him easily...but we were so glad that he was okay!

My parents took Dundee for a few days so Duke wouldn't be wanting to run around the house playing. Once Dundee was home, he and Duke played non stop! They must have really missed each other because I have found them touching noses multiple times since they have been back together.

I feel so blessed to have these two adorable animals in my home and in my life. I never imagined life would be the way it is right now - but I love it. Duke and Dundee give Shane and me so much love and laughter and fill our home with SO MUCH happiness.

experience the magic...

2011-11-28T21:40:00.001-07:00

OF NUTCRACKER!

The Sheriff and her possy

2011-11-25T14:56:00.001-07:00

For Happy Halloween 2011, my deputy was caught at work...all night. So my possy and I were left to fend for ourselves... even though my voice was barely beginning to come back from having a nasty cold.

(I even had a stranger ask if I had smoker's syndrome because of my voice. Um...what? weird.)

Ah...the possy. They sat and waited as back up each time I opened my door for ghosts and such. The townspeople sure got a kick out of my babies.

Although Duke wasn't too partial to his adorable outfit...

Dundee sure thought he was HOT STUFF...

As for me? I just felt darn lucky that I could see and hold this adorable buggy on Halloween!

more work don't hurt nobody

2011-10-23T22:24:00.003-06:00

unless you don't get paid for it that is!

Shane was paid for 24 out of the 72 hours he worked last week... because 48 out of the 72 hours were spent precepting for nursing school. Shane has worked very hard to earn his RN and he is finally at the tail end of finishing school! He just has to endure 3-4 more weeks of working full time, with no paycheck. In my eyes, it is all worth it! Shane is getting AWESOME training by precepting in the shock trauma ICU at IMC. It was such a blessing that he was chosen to be in this ICU because there are so many patients that have endured life or death accidents and who are in need of critical care. Shane's eyes have been opened wide to how delicate life truly is, and he is now starting to understand the depth of his own injury 2 years ago.

Currently, Shane is back at the hospital working a 7 PM - 7 AM precepting shift, then working again from 3 PM - 11 PM. (Keep in mind this guy has to commute 40 minutes just to get to work!) I am so proud of him and hope that I can give him all the support he needs during this tiring time of his life...

What he REALLY needs are some extra hours in the day for homework, and SLEEP!

Dance is more than a way of movement...

2011-10-11T10:23:00.002-06:00

It's a way of LIFE.

The body...

Says what words cannot.

At times we may fall,

But we know how to pick ourselves back up again.

The work is most often aggressive, but the reward is BLISS

We can always look to the sun

even on days when rain clouds gather.

And if the rain does fall...

We find no need to wait.

Dancers need SPACE

to EXPRESS, MOVE, & CREATE

Dancers find inspiration from seeing,

But discover it through experiencing.

It isn't ever easy

But the effort made is always worth it

And no matter which direction we turn,

Dancing always faces us toward HEAVEN.

*Special thank you to Marla Lofgreen, Debbie Webber, and Clytie Adams' School of Ballet for helping my passion come to life through photography!

my farm

2011-10-04T19:17:00.001-06:00

As many of you know, Shane and I are the proud parents of one handsome goldfish - Gus, and one adorably feisty kitty - Duke. To add to the mix we recently adopted an incredibly smart and lovable dog - Dundee.
I wasn't ready to be a dog owner. I never expected to be a dog owner. I was already overly concerned about smells and extra hair in my house. However, Shane and I have known Dundee ever since he was a puppy, and as much as I may not have realized it, even I had secured a special place in my heart for him. Because of certain circumstances, Dundee wasn't happy in his home anymore. Both my family and Shane's family worked together to find what home would best suit this almost 2 year old sheltie...it boiled down to either my Mom and Dad, or us. Shane and I immediately knew what we needed to do, and we haven't viewed our decision with one ounce of regret since that day.

We were worried however; how would Duke react? How would I train this dog to stay off of my sofas? Could I handle the smell? Here's how things are:

*Duke and Dundee have surprisingly become friends - no kidding. Just today I caught them sleeping RIGHT next to each other. They easily respect each other's privacy and don't become jealous for attention. Who ever knew a 2 year old cat and 2 year old dog could get along so well?

*I told Dundee ONCE to not get on the sofa. BINGO.
*Dundee is NOT a smelly dog. I didn't think this was possible! Plus I have scentsys, candles, and oil burners to make a meat market smell GREAT so as far as I know, the smell hasn't been a problem.
*My sweet sister made the transition much easier by surprising us with all of our very favorite treats, including goods for our kitty-cat. I LOVE MY SIS. She is the most thoughtful person I know.

So, if you ever feel like visiting a farm (without the smell and mess that is...) you are more than welcome to our home! We may not have human children in our home just yet, but our animal babies give us fantastic company... oh how we LOVE that!

And we sure love this puppy of ours...

slipping through my fingers

2011-09-12T14:53:00.000-06:00

I have made my way into the basement more than once to carry upstairs that one measly, halfway filled box of fall decorations that I own, only to find that I just haven't had the mental strength to do it. This could be because I have no desire for decorating my house season by season, or because I am just NOT ready to LET SUMMER GO. The signs of autumn are in no doubt already approaching, and with them my hot summer, sunny filled days are slipping through my fingers. I have found my mood a little less than optimistic as I feel the cool morning air, or watching as the dim sun climbs into bed earlier than usual. I just didn't get enough of days packed with swimming, walks with Shane in shorts and flip flops, sun-kissed skin, popsickles on Sunday afternoons, and barbeques outdoors in the late evening.
When Shane and I were dating I asked him what his favorite season was. He thought for several minutes as he stared up into the cold winter sky...finally he replied, "I can't pick just one.". I pried and prodded, feeling slightly annoyed that he couldn't make this decision. He went on to explain to me what he enjoyed about each and every season, down to the miniscule details. When he asked me the same question, of course I stubborly responded, "SUMMER. hands down. no question.".
My sweet husband still just can't find it in him to 'number' the seasons from favorite to least... and that's exactly what I LOVE about HIM. Yes, I might always have a sweet spot in my heart for summer, but what's so wrong about autumn, or even winter? If Shane can love it, so can I... and to be completely honest, no matter what the temperature is outside, days spent with my love always feel warm.
I adore that.

This is your LIFE

2011-09-09T16:37:00.000-06:00

fall in love. believe in magic. LAUGH EVERYDAY. find a passion and PURSUE it. look with optimism to the future. learn more. create. never GIVE UP. give someone a reason to SMILE. spend time with family. be HAPPY. FORGIVE even when it's hard. smile often. try new things. work hard. follow your dreams. tell stories. ADMIRE someone. make TIME to enjoy the SIMPLE things in LIFE. embrace change. be NICE to EVERYONE. TRUST in yourself. LIVE in the MOMENT...live for today. be understanding. keep your PROMISES. share. think of OTHERS before YOURSELF. listen to your parents. say I love you. be your BEST SELF. say please and thank you. DREAM BIG. eat great food. be thankful, be grateful. DANCE often.

be true to who you are...

be YOU.

I'll take what I can get!

2011-08-25T18:16:00.004-06:00

Shane and I only had three weeks of summer together before school started... at first I had a terrible attitude that three weeks was such a measly amount of time, but before I knew it we had plans every single day to do something FUN. I had been able to create such valuable memories with my love in the past few weeks than I had during the entire year!

On one of the days we took some friends out boating...

Kenzie & Rachel

Although this picture doesn't show it, we were flopping around like goldfish out of water... WOW.

Shane...my MR. INCREDIBLE

Oh yes, I had to prove to Shane that no matter how hard he tried to get me off...

I STAYED ON THAT TUBE!!

Really it was just that I was terrified of the tiger muskies eating me alive... but hey, it worked! ;)

Welcome, baby angel

2011-08-12T10:20:00.004-06:00

Halo Serene...

7 pounds

18.5 inches

Grandma, Aunt Kenzie, and baby

baby and Mommy... Nina

Look at that adorable face!

Grandma and baby

Happy family... Nina, Eric, and baby Halo

Eric (my brother), Me, and Halo

It is hard to try to explain with words how touching it has been to have this baby here. Nina allowed me to experience so much of her pregnancy, including being at the ultrasound where we found out that Halo was a girl. Eric and Nina have been so good to allow me to be a part of their experience...it has filled a small void that my own heart has been yearning to fill.

Baby angel,

On Christmas Eve I heard the incredible news that you were on your way... my whole body was filled with excitement, so much so that it poured out of my eyes! As tears ran down my cheeks I noticed that Uncle Shane's did too; we were so happy for your Mommy and Daddy to have you...you were a miracle for all of us. As you grew stronger I thought of you... I wondered what you would look like, what kind of personality you might have... I yearned to hold you and tell you how much I loved you.

The night you arrived my heart grew. The moment I held you my love grew.

You are a very special one, Halo...

You are our very own baby angel.

I will love you to the heavens and back...always.

Unexpected Adventure

2011-08-07T23:15:00.003-06:00

Since Shane was finding his own adventure at scout camp a few weeks ago, I found some for myself! My oldest brother invited me to go hiking up Bear canyon early on a Saturday morning because Shane was gone. 6:30 AM rolled around on Saturday and Cory (my oldest brother), Danny (my other brother visiting from Texas), Mat (my brother in law), me, and Dundee, Griswold, and Fletch (a shelty and 2 golden retrievers) prepared ourselves for the hike.

It was gorgeous! About halfway through we came to a jungle. HUGE ferns were growing everywhere (most of them taller than ME), and the trail could hardly be seen!

Eventually, despite our unpreparedness, we all decided that the hike would only be worth it if we could go all the way up to the radar towers. This picture is showing the last tiny bit of the hike UP (it seemed straight up) to get up to the trail leading to the towers.

Almost there!

Made it! (Cory, Me, & Griswold)

I can now say that I have hiked up to Francis Peak and all the way back down! It was a challenge, but it feels so darn good that I did it!

7.27.2011 = 4 YEARS!

2011-08-02T10:54:00.002-06:00

Our anniversary started off with Shane riding up into Snow Basin to arrange the most beautiful bouquet of wild flowers for me... Shane is so sweet! That arrangement of flowers meant SO much more to me than if he had run to the store and bought some just like it!

That evening Shane surprised me with dinner at The Roof in Salt Lake. We had $96 saved up in our piggy bank...a perfect amount to spend on an incredible dinner spent with an even more incredible man!

We then took a stroll around temple square...

Then relaxed by the water fountains to watch other couples just beginning their lives together. We saw three couples taking wedding pictures and one girl get proposed to!

We then wanted to go up to the roof of the Conference Center. We hopped on an elevator with another couple who were visiting from China. None of us could figure out how to get up to the roof! (we also didn't know that the elevator requires a certain "key" to make it up there...) The couple we had just met seemed sad that we couldn't figure out how to get up to the roof, so we had them follow us to find someone who could take us there. We eventually ended up with a VIP tour of the top of the building! Most people don't get to walk and see what we were allowed to see. It was so fun, and at the end of our tour, our new friends gave us each a penny to make a wish into the fountains. What a fun way to finish out our anniversary date!

I feel so blessed to have Shane to share eternity with. We have had our fair share of trials over the past 4 years (resulting in health insurance paying over $100,000 for us), but each of those difficult experiences were accompanied by many, many blessings. What an amazing experience it is to spend every moment with the person you are madly in love with!

Now let's just keep our fingers crossed that the wish Shane and I both made with our pennies at the water fountains comes true...soon!

xoxo

My Best Friend's Wedding

2011-07-28T18:54:00.002-06:00

Debra has been one of my very best friends since we were in the same kindergarten class over 17 years ago, so you can imagine what an incredible treat it was for me to support her at her wedding on July 22. My mom accompanied me to the sealing and luncheon, and Shane was able to spend the entire night with me at the reception...it was such a beautiful and fun day!

Look at that BEAUTIFUL dress!
Carter, Debra, Debra's Mom, nephew, and Dad

Debra and Carter...they just adore each other.

Karlie, Sidney, me, Debra, Franki, Kiera (and little baby girl!), & Jenny.

At the reception I was able to visit with Katie and Abby... we also went to elementary, junior high, and high school together. Katie now lives in Chicago and I haven't seen Abby since high school so it was very fun to see them and hear about the wonderful things they are doing with their lives!

Carter, Debra, Kenzie, & Shane

I feel so happy that Debra found such an amazing guy to spend eternity with. It is so clear how much he loves and cherishes Debra, and I don't know if he will ever realize how important that is to so many people!

I LOVE YOU DEBRA!

our summer hasn't been uneventful...

2011-07-26T18:25:00.005-06:00

We have had tons of fun!!

We began our 4th of July holiday by hiking up Adam's Canyon. We experienced beautiful scenery, but even more beautiful was being able to spend that time with Shane!

Also in July we happily enjoyed the annual family vacation at Bear Lake. Boating, swimming, band-aid tattoos from my latest excursion at the doctor, bike riding... and my personal favorite, dancing on the deck with my love while the sun set over the lake.

Here was something new... I have been dying to visit this place for YEARS. Shane took me to Utah's very own,

HOGLE ZOO!
And I must say, I had more fun than I had even expected!

The bird show was INCREDIBLE. I never knew I could be so fascinated by flocks of doves and roosters, and it was amazing to see some of the more exotic birds. Shane and I learned so much during that 30 minutes!

Ah, the armadillo! I was so excited to see one of these cuties. It was my FAVORITE animal as a child, and I think it still might be...just look at that awesome little creature! (he was a little nervous...hence the head buried in the sand...)

And of course... the giraffes. Always a crowd pleaser.

It was really exciting to see mommy elephant with her baby, Zuri. Little Zuri would mimic everything her mom would do. It was so precious.

We also stopped by to say hello to a few of Duke's family members. We apologized for not being able to take them home with us because we know Duke would just LOVE having them around! Oh well, I guess we can visit often enough, right?

Well this summer has been much different from the other 3 summers Shane and I have spent together as a married couple. We have finally been able to actually enjoy playing together without ending up in the hospital with some sort of terrifying injury!

Hmmm...maybe I should go find some wood to knock on...wouldn't want to ruin our chances of FINISHING out the summer the way it STARTED! :)

Beautiful Bryce Canyon

2011-07-07T15:21:00.008-06:00

In June Shane and I went camping down South to Bryce Canyon National Park with two of our greatest friends, Mike and Rachel. Shane and I had both been to the park and fell in love instantly with the beautiful natural formations, but neither of our friends had been there so we knew that it would be a perfect trip!

We arrived in the park at 1:00 AM and COULD NOT find a site to set up our tents. After searching in the dark for an hour, we settled on sleeping in the car at Ruby's Inn parking lot (hmmm... ghetto? yes.) Keep in mind there were all four of us packed in there!

"Wall Street" hike on the Navajo Loop trail

Just coming out of the Navajo Loop trail

Can you find the statue of Queen Elizabeth?

Back at camp, eating our DELICIOUS tinfoil dinners. This was a first for Rachel... she loved them so much I worried that she was going to eat the rest of ours! ;)

Starting Day 2 of hiking

Awww... how sweet

Cute Rachel and Mike, enjoying the little bit of shade we could find

'Inspiration Point'

Shane, Kenzie, Rachel, & Mike at 'Bryce Point'

You can see how far we hiked on Day 2! Shane is pointing to our campground, and I am pointing to 'Bryce Point', the furthest place to hike in the park. GO US!

After dinner on day 2 we went exploring on part of the 'Rim Trail' just a few steps away from our campsite. We saw some pretty amazing things while the sun was setting!

Shane & Kenzie

Rachel and I climbed into a small archway that looked out over the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. It was also a drop off... fun!

And no vacation would be complete without Shane testing his limits and scaring both Rachel and me HALF TO DEATH... but hey, he's one adventurous fellow and I've got to hand it to him that he kept his balance despite the cliff he was hanging over.

Day 3, on our way out of the park...

On our drive home we stopped to do one more 6 mile hike called 'Calf Creek'. It was HOT and very SANDY but very worth it because we made it to....

THE MOST AMAZING AND BEAUTIFUL WATERFALL!

The hike was SO worth it.

Mike, Rachel, Kenzie, Shane

What a wonderful vacation spent with wonderful friends. We laughed our hearts out all day and had a blast together. Now we need to decide where to go next, if you have any suggestions let us know!

Grand Canyon (Shane and I haven't been)

Arches National Park (Shane and Rachel haven't been)
Mesa Verde (Shane and Rachel haven't been)

One of the nights at Bryce Canyon Shane and I went out late onto the Rim Trail and looked up at the diamond-filled sky. Everything was full of such beauty, and it was impossible to not thank our Heavenly Father for creating such masterpieces for us to enjoy!

Once Upon a Time...

2011-07-03T21:05:00.006-06:00

There were two casts of cute green grasshoppers, one cast of sunshining beauties, and one darling little Christmas tree that danced their way on the stage for Clytie Adams' 2011 Recital.

(Fables: "The Grasshoppers and the Ants", "The Sun and the Wind")

And of course, the recital wouldn't have been nearly as much fun without my sweet neice, Savanna, who played the Christmas Tree in the story of "The Little Match Girl". I was fussing over her the entire time as if I were her mother! Poor thing... but she was absolutely ADORABLE! I couldn't help myself! ;)

I don't ever want to forget how blessed I feel to teach at such a wonderful ballet school. I get to work with such amazing little children who fill my world with so much sunshine, not to mention the amazing teachers who have all become best friends and mother figures for me! I know that I have the best job in the world... :)

Just Dance...again!

2011-06-13T22:15:00.008-06:00

I am SO happy that I was able to be a part of a dance performance in April of this year. It was a lot of hard work and it was so fulfilling to push myself to my limits again. I met amazing people, and made friendships that I will cherish forever.

"FINAL EXAM"

"AGGLOMERATION"

"I AM"

Thank you to my greatest fans who came to cheer me on in my old dancing age! Mom and Dad Stratford, Melanie, Madi, Mom and Dad, Nina, Amy, Aunt Marla, Annie, Brooke, Savanna, and my love - Shane... it meant the WORLD to me to have your support, I love each of you so much!

Taking a break from blogger...for a bit

2011-05-23T12:08:00.003-06:00

See you soon!

04.01.2011 was my birthday

2011-05-02T17:15:00.008-06:00

I am not fooling, my birthday fell on the beloved holiday for all pranks to be unleashed... and I LOVE IT! Besides the regular teasing and pranking that goes along with having four older brothers, April Fools Day was always designated just for celebrating my birthday. The only tricks played on me were the candles on my birthday cake... when I was young I could not figure out why I wasn't powerful enough to blow them out!

Most people may say that birthdays lose their sense of excitement and valor with each year added on to ones tally, however, I tend to enjoy each new birthday with more vigour as I reflect upon the ups and downs of the past year, and look most forward to the year to come. It's like reading a good mystery book... you never quite know where and when the book will take a turn for the better or worse, yet either way, it becomes more exciting. :)

Shane was going to be taking me up to the family cabin for the weekend, but before we left I needed to see a few of my favorite people! We went to the park with my sister and her family (including the adorable dog, dundee) after which we enjoyed our favorite soft serve frozen yogurt, Yogotogo. Then we stopped by the bank to see one of my best friends, Rachel!

We thought it would be funny to take a picture right outside the men's bathroom... I think you'd agree with me when I say the picture doesn't exactly scream FUNNY... ;) However, Rachel is by far the funniest friend I have... she is from Georgia and just moved here a few years ago. I will always love her feisty southern accent and positive attitude about life... she has been such an amazing friend for me!

Then up at the cabin my cute mother in law gave both Melanie (Shane's sister) and me matching outfits!

A couple weeks after my birthday Shane and I were able to see Ballet West's performance of Bolero and it was AMAZING. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time! I am so grateful for a husband who will take me to ballet performances and never complain about it one little bit. I know that he does it just for ME...

And I just love EVERYTHING about him!

Funny how things change...

2011-04-06T13:07:00.006-06:00

When Shane and I were first married we discussed what material "things" would make for such great gifts for our 5th anniversary. As our 4th year of marriage is fast approaching I have reflected upon those wishes - desires for material possesions. Those un-practical, yet exciting ideas of gifts have no meaning to me now...and for the past two years I have only had one dream - one wish - and at least for now, I am still reaching for that shining star in my sky.

In the meantime, as I wait (sometimes not so patiently) for my fairy-tale dreams to come true, I have been able to share in sweet moments with my sister in law as we found out together that she and my brother would be having a beautiful baby girl...that calm little baby that seems just as much mine as she is theirs. I get to spend every waking moment counting my blessings for a husband who makes the tough times more than just bearable; a man who lets me cry, and holds me close as our hearts cry together.

Some days I awake to cloudy skies, some to sunshine...and on the days that I watch the raindrops fall on the pavement outside my window I think about the entire bag of tulips that I planted with my sweet one a short seven months ago. Those flowers embrace the rain and also reach tall for those sunny days...they need both to grow beautifully.

So, I choose to embrace the rain.

I choose to welcome it to my seemingly eventless life,

and thank it for making my life

more eventful...

more enjoyable...

more BEAUTIFUL.

Apples, onions, and lettuce too

2011-03-04T23:33:00.007-07:00

Up until two years ago, I had never been able to bite into an apple, or eat a hamburger without the onions and lettuce sliding right back out. But two years ago today (March 4th) all of that changed! I was able to have major reconstructive surgery on my upper jaw. I will never, ever be able to forget the long-lasting effects of this procedure because I am able to experience them every single day, and I feel so blessed that I had such an amazing team of doctors to make my life even more beautiful than it already was. I wanted to post a few pictures (just a tiny few), and some facts that I had written down not long after my operation about the surgery and recovery.

You can see just a bit from this picture how my teeth had begun to go crooked. They also flared out, and I had a large overbite.

Here I am ready for surgery, March 4, 2009. This was after 2 years of braces and a gum graft surgery to prepare me for my big jaw operation. It is crazy to compare pictures from my wedding day, to the day of surgery, and after!

Right after surgery

How I was fed for a couple weeks after surgery

7 days out of surgery... I remember feeling like I had a tootsie roll inside my top lip!

And here I am with my wonderful husband one year past the surgery. The comparison is incredible!

Here are some of the things I wrote down about my surgery not long after it was done:

**My surgery lasted 1 hour 45 minutes in which I had the post set in my lower jaw for my tooth implant, had my upper jaw removed, a wedge of bone cut out, then replaced and put back together with 4 plates and 18 screws. Crazy...ouch.
**I was asleep for a long time after surgery (because of my anxiety the anesthesiologist was surprised at how much medication was required to keep me asleep!)
**Once I woke up and sat up, my nose bled and bled and BLED. It was so frustrating because I was so numb-so as I tried to clean the blood off myself I couldn't because I had no clue where the blood was at. I ended up throwing up blood 3 times through my banded-shut mouth. :(
**My diet consists of medication after medication and about 10-15 cc's (about one tablespoon) of juice.
**I crave to talk with Shane...not being able to express my feelings through words is hard. It is tiring.
**I am amazed at how this recovery is seemingly easy despite the incredible difficulties. I have experienced an outpouring of love and service, and I know that has helped me heal. I couldn't ask for a better husband. I can't believe how gratefully and willingly he has served me! I love him with all my heart - can't wait to give him a big KISS someday! I can't wait until I can smile and laugh too. :)

***

My looks changed subtly, but they did change quite a bit. My nose is different, the muscles in my cheeks sit higher on my face, and my chin is more prominent. The entire shape of my face is different!

My teeth haven't budged one tiny bit since my surgery.

Just a few months ago I actually took my very first official bite out of an apple.

I will sometimes eat one piece of flat lettuce through my front teeth to feel the sensation of my front teeth actually getting through something so tiny...it is so amazing to me, still.

I feel so grateful every day for the experience that I had... I feel so blessed to be able to eat normally!

The thing that makes me smile...

2011-02-22T18:32:00.004-07:00

Him. Just hiking on a clear, sunny, snowy day...

with him.

I love you Shane...thank you for making my world turn round!

xoxo

Sunny California!

2011-02-15T13:44:00.003-07:00

In January I was able to spend an entire week in sunny Newport Beach California with my mom, sister, aunt Marla, aunt Debbie, and cousin Tara. It was fun to have a "girls only" trip filled with lots of laughter! We were able to do so many things from shopping, sunsets at Victoria Beach, playing Phase 10 at Newport Beach, cooking at the condo, going out for world-famous king crab legs, and a whole day (open to close) at Disneyland! Most of the pictures of all of us are on my mom's computer, but here are a few that I snapped while enjoying the vacation:

Kenzie & Brooke...so happy to be in SUNSHINE!

The night we checked in to the condo...look at that GORGEOUS view.

Brooke & Me at "Toy Story Mania" just ONE of the MANY fun rides at Disneyland. Our family LOVES Disneyland!

Victoria Beach

Kenzie & Brooke at Victoria Beach

Brooke, Kenzie & Mom watching the sun set at Victoria Beach

It was so nice to escape from our cold, sunless weather and head west to find some warmth... but it was also so nice to come home to the warmth of my husbands arms.

Thank you SO much Dad for the much needed vacation!

I might be going crazy...

2011-01-24T23:01:00.003-07:00

Tonight I had a suggestion from a friend to make french toast for dinner.

We had one egg in the fridge...one egg, just for me, to make my french toast.

I removed a bowl and placed it next to the sink. I cracked the egg, and let it slip so perfectly and gracefully down the disposal. I then proceeded to carefully set the cracked egg shell into my bowl. I picked up my fork to whisk up the egg.

It was then, and ONLY then, that I realized I was about to whisk an egg shell, as my perfect little egg sat so perfectly down the drain.

I love french toast.

Even more, I love a good hearty laugh.

1.11.11

2011-01-12T12:50:00.002-07:00

What a day to have a birthday! Most of our family were able to get together to celebrate one of the greatest men on earth...my Dad! My mom made it so fun - chili and bread sticks, homemade brownies and frosting, and homemade cheesecake (Grandma Ferguson's recipe) with berries.

Brooke, Mat, Cory, Nina, Eric, Michael

Holly, Kenzie, Mom, Bryce (holding baby Eric)

Easton, Todd, Dad, Nyle

Lauryn, Savanna, Tyler

Because Dad's birthday fell on 1.11.11, I thought I would share 11 'I love you's' about my Dad:
1. He always came (and still does) to every performance. Dad's applause could always be heard first, and louder than anyone else's, simply because he felt so proud.
2. Staying up into the early hours of the morning to help with math homework was a regular routine, because quitting was not an option.
3. Teaching me how to appreciate the simple things in life, like a good piece of homemade bread and jam.
4. For being the world's greatest handyman. Somehow, Dad even knew how to fix every broken heart with only a few words and a warm embrace.
5. Turning little things into a science project for the mind. 'Look at the difference between the composition of this dirt, in comparison to that dirt...what makes it that way?' This is exactly how Dad thinks every minute of every day, I just know it. He is SO SMART!
6. Dad knows the answer to every question...NO MATTER WHAT. But Dad doesn't just answer the question, he answers it with the wisest of words.
7. For respecting and openly loving my Mom every minute of every day. Watching the way he treated her made me realize what every woman deserves in a companion, and it always encouraged me to be better, so that I might have the chance to marry the best (and I sure think he is :)..).
8. For listening to me when all I needed to do was talk. For holding me tight when all I could do was cry.
9. For making dinner time, family time. No phone calls were answered, and no work was done. It was all 8 of us, great conversation, and amazing food every night. (With a little bit of bickering from Brooke and me over who got to sit next to Dad... :))
10. Always caring so much without seeming protective, even though I know that's how he feels inside! But no kidding Dad, I can't thank you enough for caring. If you didn't care, I wouldn't be where I am today.
11. For saying "I love you" EVERY TIME we talk.
---
Thank you Dad for allowing me to fall, for picking me back up, and for knowing me well enough to carry me when I couldn't carry myself.
I love you.

(more posts below)

2011...bring it on.

2011-01-12T12:25:00.002-07:00

To celebrate the ending of 2010 and beginning of 2011 Shane and I were able to vacation in St. George with our friends Mike & Rachel, Nate & Amanda, and Darin & Jen. A nice cold front blanketed all of Utah making it much too frigid to carry out most of our outdoor plans, however, it didn't take away from the fun we were still able to have.

Attending the temple, a little bit of mountain biking, little bit of tennis, not being able to see each other while soaking in the hot tub (we created SO much steam because it was so cold outside!), Rachel's famous fried egg sandwiches, playing COUNTLESS games of "The Office" clue, pizza, movies, bingo, one 499 piece puzzle (if you can believe it, we had a BRAND NEW puzzle, and one piece was missing! bummer...), shopping, church, one amazing Sunday dinner, and laughing so hard our stomachs hurt while watching our men battle it out playing the dance game on xbox kinect. SO, SO FUNNY.

You can't tell from this picture, but because of the wet clay dirt and sandy snow our bikes were filthy!

I feel so grateful to have such great friends... friends who are supportive, uplifting, and downright FUN. When we are together, it feels like family.

Thank you for helping us kick this 2011 year with a bang!

2011-01-10T15:58:00.005-07:00

Two days before Christmas, our furniture went from this:

To this!

Our new furniture is so comfortable and so beautiful, and the quality is phenomenal. Everything in this picture with exception of the brown ottoman is from a furniture store called Lofgren's www.lofgrens.com. Our console table and end table are both bamboo, our entertainment unit is walnut, and we were even able to choose our own fabric for the sofa, chair, and ottoman.

Now we just have to keep ourselves from buying more furniture from this place...we love it!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-10T14:56:00.007-07:00

I need to start off this post with yet another trick Duke has figured out on his own. Duke gets quite cold, and often times we will find him here:

On the bathroom floor, snuggled inside a bath towel! I was determined to figure out how he had done this one, so one night I watched as he wiggled his long body up the inside of the folded towel that was hanging on the towel rack. He then pulled it down with him onto the floor, then proceeded to army crawl himself to the opposite opening in the towel so he can poke his head out.

Maybe it's just that we're biased, but I just think our cute little kitty has become so intelligent!

---

During the month of December we invited one and all from our neighborhood to join us in seeing the lights and sights at Temple Square.

It was fun to mingle and enjoy the lights and hot chocolate and donuts out of the back of Shane's car with some of our neighbors. We feel so blessed to be surrounded by so many friends!

---

Also in December I was able to get four tickets to Ballet West's "The Nutcracker" for the price of one! What an enjoyable afternoon with Mom, Brooke, and Savanna. We were all captivated by the performance, and it was so fun to reminisce about Brooke performing as a buffoon and a soldier with Ballet West.

Brooke, Savanna, Kenzie

---

Christmas brought with it so much fun and surprises! Christmas eve is always celebrated with the Ferguson's, and my parents sure put on a spread of delectable food! My parents also devote a lot of time and effort into the Christmas gifts for all of the kids and grandkids...it is so exciting to see the look on every one's faces as they open their beautifully wrapped gifts.

This is what Shane and I were blessed with this year:

A box of water wrapped inside a soft blanket. Can you figure this one out? Let's just say we can hardly wait to not have faded clothes from the washer, spots on our dishes and faucets, and dry skin and hair...thank you a MILLION Mom and Dad!

---

On Christmas Day Shane and I headed up to the family cabin with Mom and Dad Stratford to help clean it for the renters who would be arriving later on in the evening. Now this may not seem like a fun Christmas Day task to many, but we're talking about MOM STRATFORD and ME here. We LOVE to clean! So it ended up being a fun afternoon spending time with just the four of us. After cleaning we drove up to Shane's sister's beautiful home in Mountain Green to have Christmas dinner with the Stratfords. When it came time to open our gifts, Mom asked us to reflect about events from 2010 in our family. She pointed out that there were many heartaches, accompanied by many blessings, and that our focus should always be on the one person who allows us to grow and to learn... the person who gives us love willingly, no matter what the circumstance.

This beautiful picture of our Savior, Jesus Christ will always remind us to be grateful for the tough times, and to be content with the outcome... to look for those who suffer, and lend a helping hand... to remember all those in need, and offer a heartfelt prayer... to look all around us and recognize the beauty of ALL things. What a blessing it is to know that our Savior watches out for each of us, and that he wraps us up in his loving arms even when we don't realize we need his comfort.

---

We received one of the greatest blessings on Christmas eve when my brother and his wife announced that they would be welcoming their first baby in August... I have felt overwhelmed with emotion as I imagine their sweet family. What a blessing for all of us... the entire Ferguson family can't wait to meet this little baby!

xoxo

My eyes see red & white

2010-11-22T16:08:00.003-07:00

Nutcracker just the thing to bring in the right Christmas spirit... What an amazing opportunity I have to be a part of such a fantastic tradition of colors, of magic, of lights, and friendships.

Those candy canes were absolutely amazing, despite the 3 gals who ended up plagued by the stomach flu! Unfortunately I ended up with it too... and try as I might I couldn't perform the party scene for 3 of the 4 performances! Cute Shane, who does all of this just for me, still held his head up high and performed those 3 performances with my part-saver, instead of myself. He was AMAZING... I would dare say that Shane has more character because of that.

My goodness I love him!

Here are my silly candy cane gals...it was because of their individual strengths that made them absolutely perfect!

Susie, Abbey, Kenzie
Alyssa, Bryni, Emily, Kenady, Claire,
Skye, Ali, Courtney

Our 'Candy Cane' huddle

Hundreds of little bodies in costume, with smiles on each one of their faces... feeling the heat of the lights, hearing the applause of the audience, and sensing the complete joy and magic that Christmas brings.

Already looking forward to next year...

xoxo

Life and the balance beam

2010-11-15T20:55:00.005-07:00

Tonight I was able to go watch my little 6 year old niece at gymnastics. I watched intently as she practiced a series of steps on the balance beam. Slides, jumps, dips, balances on one leg... her cute little body with arms stretched out like an airplane did its very best to keep her on the balance beam. Occasionally she would lose that hard earned balance and fall. Each time she would quickly pick herself up and pull with all her strength to get her body back up on the beam. It looked hard. My muscles ached by just watching her struggle to get back up.

I thought a lot about her practice and how that's just how life goes. We all try our very best to walk that thin line of safety, of happiness, of success... but much of the time we lose our sight, (sometimes at no fault of our own) let go of our strength, and fall off the beam. While sitting on the ground looking at all those who are still walking a perfectly balanced line we tend to think that it isn't worth the difficulty of trying to get back up. It's too hard. But someway, somehow, we find ourselves pulling to get back on that thin line.

Savanna and I hopped into the car and I looked back at her while her quiet, and worn out eyes looked out into the night from the tinted window.

"My muscles feel so tired." She quietly stated.
"I think I need a treat."

Gymnastics is hard...just like life. But most of the time we do our best to muster up the strength to pick ourselves back up, even if it seems impossible.

I think you are right Savanna...let's go get some ice cream.

Together.

xoxo Savanna baby. I love you.

Perfect Imperfection

2010-11-06T20:19:00.006-06:00

At Nutcracker practices my dancers work hard memorizing their choreography so that once they are on the stage to perform, they can dance it with PERFECTION.

I delight in knowing that my dancers work so SO hard to achieve this goal... it is so fulfilling to watch from backstage as every toe is pointed, every hoop is moving in the right direction, and every sweet smile is in its place.

Today during practice we ran the dance... over, and over, and over again. When a mistake was made, back to the beginning every girl would march, hoping that in the next go around no mistakes would be made. They worked as hard as they always do, and I was impressed with their dedication.

After individual practice we combined with all of the other dancers for finale rehearsal. I knew my dancers would be perfect, because that's what we had worked so hard to achieve. When their turn came to dance, I was astonished at not only the small, but the very large and obvious mistakes that were being made... what was happening? I felt frustrated, and sad. They know this dance! They know their parts! Why is this not perfect like it was 10 minutes ago?!

As I stood around the other teachers feeling fumed, I glanced over at my dancers huddled back in a corner. Each of them looked so content, watching silently as the other dancers leaped and turned all about the floor. I quickly became overcome with feelings of guilt. "They ARE perfect" I thought. "They did exactly what I had asked of them - to dance their very best". To be honest, I wouldn't have it any other way.

After I gave each of the girls a high five and a wink, I drove home contemplating my internal behavior. My thoughts quickly turned to the Savior... the ultimate teacher. He doesn't teach expecting us to come out perfect. He wouldn't make us turn around and start over so we wouldn't make any mistakes. Our Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ give us the opportunity to make mistakes so that we may learn, we may grow, and so that next time, we can be better. We are only expected to do our best; to TRY to be perfect, not to BE perfect; and I think that's exactly why we all can feel of their love for us. How proud they must feel every time we serve someone in need, or kneel to pray in seeking for direction....

How proud I feel every time I see a smile, or witness the beautiful countenance on each dancers face. How proud I feel to be their teacher; to watch them stumble, to watch them grow, and see each of them finding their own perfection.

Perfection doesn't come in pointed toes or turned out legs. It comes in lifting our chins, stepping out onto the stage with confidence, and dancing our very, very best.

xoxo

sleepless

2010-09-18T23:39:00.002-06:00

There is just something so lovely about...

The smell of clean laundry
The tightness of the sheets at night
New socks
Open doors & open windows
Windex on mirrors
Burning candles
Feeding the ducks
Unique artwork
An organized closet
The sound of the rain
Toast with cinnamon sugar, late at night
Waking up to the sunrise
Letting tears roll down my cheeks without regret

And knowing that no matter where I am or where he is
I have his heart and he has mine

I like that feeling.

I miss you tonight my love...sleep is impossible to find without you by my side.
xoxo

9.10.2010

2010-09-09T23:31:00.005-06:00

HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY LITTLE BUDDY!

Some of the greatest things about you:

1. You're incredibly smart! You know how to turn on the lights in the middle of the night in order to wake us up and play.

2. You know how to cool things down. When it gets a little warm in the house, you just flip on the light switch that controls the fan, then lie on your back right underneath it and fall asleep.

3. Your meow is more like a squeak! Duke sometimes we can't even hear you when you need something... we know you are trying to meow because your mouth moves but nothing comes out!

4. Although your voice is quiet, your feet are not. We know exactly where you are in the house, anytime of the day.

5. You're very obedient when it comes to table manners. You always sit upright on the chair, and fold your arms at the counter! What a good boy.

6. You save us money on fly swatters. Not only do you make it incredibly amusing to watch while you body slam flies against the walls, but you also always catch them!

7. The way you snuggle at night, always next to daddy.

8. How you prefer to drink water. I think most kitties drink straight out of a bowl, but you like to drink it out of the tap...while it's running. It's so funny to see water drip from off your face!

9. You also love to play in water! If the sink is full of water, you'll bury your arms in it and then shake off your paws so the water sprinkles the mirror... it's fun to see those water spots, we think of you every time.

10. You try so very hard to climb trees, and your getting better. But you do make sitting out on the porch much more amusing when you run, jump on the tree trunk, then slide all the way down because you just can't hold on.

Duke we LOVE you. We have been ready to build our family for awhile now, but most of the time life doesn't exactly go as we hope or plan. Thank you for being such a joy in our home, you turn every sad or stressful day completely upside down!

You make my heart melt, just like daddy does.

xoxo

2010-09-01T21:49:00.001-06:00

As I sit here folding laundry I feel overcome with emotion at the blessings that surround me.
A wonderful husband; friends to care for, and who care for me too...
It makes me wonder - does everyone else in this world have a moment to feel their heart swell and eyes fill up with grateful tears?

I hope so.
What a good feeling this is.

oooooh boy.......

2010-08-03T20:33:00.003-06:00

Friends, family, and journal
I am so sorry we have left you in the dust,
How rude of us!
It is now time to attempt to cover up the past few months
With a few words
And some new posts below.

Yes, Shane was accepted to Nursing school for the fall! We are so delighted and couldn't be happier with this blessing.

I finished up another successful year at the ballet school. I taught the cute Bells (cast A), Lost Penny (cast A & B), and Pretty Girl (cast B). All of my dancers worked SO hard and were absolutely magnificent in the recital! I couldn't have been happier with their performance.

After 3 1/2 years as a bank teller and lead teller, I was finally pushed to interview for a promotion. After no preparation I was offered a job as a personal banker. It came as a surprise, but after many prayers Shane and I realized it was a blessing.

The calling to be a Young Women's Advisor is COVETED in the church, therefore I was very sad when I was released! I LOVED my mia maids, as well as the incredible leaders I served with. But I have come to love my new calling as the Primary Presidency 1st Counselor. I am able to serve with three great friends who teach me and uplift me EVERY DAY.

Shane has been working on the 'general team' at IMC for 1 1/2 years. He was recently given a huge compliment and asked to join the 'cardiovascular team'. He is now working in surgery on the heart patients. It is stressful, but he is learning and loving it SO much!

We welcomed our new nephew Nathan Scott, and new niece Emily to the family. Both healthy and both CUTE! Can't wait for 2 more nephews on the way!

BLESSINGS, BLESSINGS, BLESSINGS. We know that we have been in our Heavenly Father's care, and we are so grateful. There are so many who are struggling and suffering with this economy, and our prayers are with you always! We love you!

xoxo

We're going to miss you too!

2010-08-03T20:05:00.002-06:00

Awhile ago, Shane and I were called by our Stake President to serve as a Ma and Pa for our Stake Pioneer Trek. We were so excited to have this opportunity to spend four days with kids from our area up in Martin's Cove...we knew that it would require good spiritual and physical preparation on our part, and we couldn't wait for the adventure.

We planned, prepared, and prayed for months. Shane and I wanted this to be an unforgettable experience for our 'family' on trek. We wanted our 'kids' to have the spiritual experience of a lifetime! The time spent together at the temple and on our knees in prayer was much needed time for the two of us to spend together...it felt so good.

The day before trek after I dropped off our buckets of belongings, I came home to find Dukie like this, snuggled under our already made bed. I'm sure he sensed that we were leaving! My brother Eric and his wife Nina always kittysit Duke whenever we go out of town, so I packed up Duke's things and we headed to their house to drop him off. It always feels so good knowing he is in good, loving hands!

On our 3 year anniversary, July 27th, I woke up at 2:00 AM feeling SICK. I figured I was just experiencing a mix of extreme excitement and anxiety, so I tried to brush it off. We arrived at the church to meet our family at 4:00 AM, and I was still so sick! All while meeting our 'kids' I was in and out of the restroom, hoping that my illness would pass. We all boarded the yellow school buses, and I wasn't quite sure that I was prepared for the seven hours of bus ride we had ahead of us!
By our first stop, I had to get off the bus because I was so sick. I slept in a car for the rest of the way to Martin's Cove, leaving Shane with our eleven (may I say, AWESOME) teenage 'kids'. Once we arrived, I didn't feel well enough to even sit through the video presentation about the sacred ground we were on. Once again a leader escorted me to the car to rest while everyone else trekked for the next 4 hours.
I tried to eat, and I tried to drink but I couldn't! I felt embarrassed to say anything because I figured the sickness would pass. 4 hours later, Shane and the medical crew found me in a miserable state...I hadn't realized that I was as sick as I was. They gave me a shot and hooked me up to an IV and quickly pushed 2000 CCs of fluid in me. I was carried to bed, and sadly, we were taken home the next morning.
Although I didn't have an opportunity to meet our 'family', that's the only thing Shane could talk about for days. Our 11 'kids' were amazing; they all got along with each other, they were prepared, and they kept their prayers with me the whole time.
All I could think of were the pioneers...how did they do it? They were sick, and I'm sure most of the time they felt absolutely awful, but they had the determination and will to push on. Their faith in the Lord kept their heads above water. We all have a little bit to learn about our ancestors, and just my two days of feeling miserable dressed in pioneer clothing, I learned a lot about them. I gained a testimony of their faithfulness to the gospel.

Maybe that's why we were called, maybe that's the answer I needed.

Although we were heartbroken, it was lucky we came home. After eight days of feeling sick, I'm thinking it's just about time to feel better!

Let's play Doctor....

2010-08-03T19:44:00.002-06:00

Here are a couple pictures from jaw surgery #6! On March 30th I had surgery on my left TMJ joint during which Dr. Austin found a large bone spur that had worn completely through the tendon. It felt good to finally have an answer, and get it fixed!

Dr. Simmons who is a friend and co-worker of Dad's, and also one of my friend's Dad, was my anesthesiologist, and he was amazing. He cared SO much for me and checked on me so often.

I think I am finally becoming a little more brave when it comes to IVs (I hope!). I went to sleep just fine, but woke up at the end of surgery with the intubation (sp?) tube still down my throat! I managed to stay calm and after just a few seconds (which felt like an eternity) they pulled the tube out so I could breathe. I later found out that during cases that have to do with the mouth or jaw, it is necessary for the patient to wake up completely before the tube can be taken out; otherwise, if the tube is taken out too early and complications arise, forcing the tube back down would damage the entire surgery. I am SO glad I didn't have that!

Dr. Simmons, Dad, Kenzie, Shane

Again, a huge thank you to my family and friends who have prayed for us and my silly jaw! Although it seems to frustrate many people, I have come to realize that I am grateful for having the opportunity to endure through the complications. The patience that I have practiced has been needed for me; Mom always said that patience was a virtue, and even though it took me 22 years to understand that, I think I finally do! These surgeries have also helped me over my fear of hospitals, needles etc. I knew that someday I would need to get over that hump, and I am almost there.

RACE FOR THE CURE

2010-08-03T19:25:00.002-06:00

Trudee Peterson....

do you know her? If not, you are sure missing out.

I have been lucky enough to work with Trudee for the past 3.5 years, and every minute has been a complete treasure! She and I would open the bank with each other every morning, so the two of us had at least 30 minutes every day of just US. We would talk, vent, and laugh all while soaking in that early morning sunrise. I cherish Trudee almost as much as I adore my own mother.

A few months ago, and at a very young age, Trudee was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was all heartache and heartbreak, but she didn't let those things get in the way of her amazing attitude. Shane and I, as well as a few of my other co-workers and the Peterson family signed up to run the breast cancer awareness race for the cure in support of Trudee and the millions of other individuals who suffer from this disease.

It was such a neat experience; over 17,000 participants arrived, and feelings of hope and love seemed to be floating everywhere!

Shane, Kenzie, Mike, Rachel, Jen, Darin

As a tribute to Trudee, our shirts said:
"Sometimes you have to do things you don't want to go..."
(no this is not a type-o :) )

"TRUDEE'S TRIBE"

Trudee has endured her chemotherapy treatments with a smile, and is now completing radiation. She is doing very well, but our prayers have, and will continue to include Trudee and her family!
WE SURE DO LOVE YOU!

2010-05-08T12:17:00.004-06:00

"You did not come into this world to fail. You came into the world to succeed. You have accomplished much so far. It is only the beginning. As you move forward on the trail of life, keep the banner of faith in self ever before you. You may not be a genius. You may not be exceptionally smart. But you can be good, and you can try. And you will be amazed at what might happen when in faith you take a step forward."

-GORDON B HINCKLEY-

Every time I read this quote I think of you my love, and I want to say congratulations on making into nursing school on your first try! We all believe in you and know that you work very hard...you have made giant leaps of faith since that dreadful day 9 months ago.

You are and always will be #1 in my heart...I love you!

2010-03-30T17:19:00.005-06:00

Surgery number six,

Now hopefully I'm fixed!

Much to Dr. Austin's surprise,

A bone spur was found right before his eyes.

Wore a hole through the tendon,

So it couldn't do much mendin',

But after surgery and 6 weeks of healing,

Back to normal I'll be...

wow, what a good feeling!

Thank you for your love and prayers in my behalf...I am so grateful that I followed the prompting to get this surgery done as soon as possible.

Much love!

xoxo

My Mama...

2010-03-28T00:34:00.002-06:00

After reading a friends post about being a mother, I was overwhelmed with emotion as I thought about my own mother...
Starting with Monday, the past week has not gone down in the record book as one of the smoothest, greatest, or happiest. It was filled with slimy oysters (yuck), and nipping crabs (ouch).
Thursday was a particularly difficult day and as I was on my way to go home for lunch I called my Mama. She was busy doing this and that, but of course she didn't hesitate one instant to invite me over to eat lunch with her. As I walked in the door I saw sitting on the table a hot bowl of clam chowder and broiled cheese bread with my Mother walking toward me, arms outstretched. She held me in her arms as I shook and trembled with emotion...as we stood next to the table she didn't utter a word, but magically she seemed to take away from me all my fear, my heartache, and my insecurity.
Since that day I have pondered about the hundreds of other similar occasions that my Mother and I have shared. How is it that with one hug, or one look, she seems to know everything? She knows how I feel, and how to fix it...every time.
How grateful I am for my Mama.
I love you Mom,
Always have,
Always will.
xoxo

More of Ecuador

2010-03-19T19:08:00.003-06:00

Here are just a few pictures from our medical mission in Ecuador. I apologize, but they are in backwards order! Enjoy!

The patients are brought here to recover after surgery. Only some of them are able to go home with some medication, and the ones that do get medication only take home a few tylenol. Each guardian of the patient that received the medication was always wide-eyed with gratefulness.

Here is a picture of Dr. Rob Ferguson and Shane in one of many surgeries. In this surgical case they were fixing a deformed hand. Their operating room had no windows, no air conditioning, and no working equipment (including tables). When you walked into the room it looked misty from the amount of humidity that filled it.

These are the doors to the operating rooms. Every door in the hospital looked very similar to this! From the inside of the doors bunches of peeking eyes could always be seen through the broken glass.

The little girl wearing pink pants (Derineya) was able to have surgery done on her cleft palate during the medical mission in 2009. She and her family were at the hospital all week giving love to families there. One afternoon Derineya came searching for me in the hospital...once she found me she took my hand and led me outside. She then pointed to a drawing done with the sidewalk chalk I had given her. It was a big heart and inside it she had written, "KENZIE, LOVE YOU". Her mother said in Spanish that it had taken her all afternoon to figure out how to say it in English. Words can't explain how that made me feel!

On the first day at the hospital, hundreds of patients line up outdoors waiting to be seen by our team of doctors. This picture is taken outside the door to the clinic with one of our anesthesiologists (Dr. Butch Parker) walking out. Notice how tiny all of the Ecuadorians are!

We were so ready to get to work! This was our first day, getting ready to head to the hospital.

Our first few days we spent in Quito, the capital of Ecuador. Quito actually marks the center of the world, and here Shane and I are standing right on the Equator! It really was amazing.

This is outside one of the cathedrals in Quito. All of these people are homeless, waiting for food from the church.

Outside the presidential palace we came across this sweet little fellow! We asked for a picture and he willingly said yes :) Again, look how little he is!

On one of the days in Ecuador we took a day trip to a city in Otavalo with our friends, Dr Rob Ferguson and his wife Andrea, and also Heidi and her husband Dr Butch Parker.

Otavalo presents a big market every Saturday and Sunday. They sell a ton of homemade goods like necklaces made from acai seeds (above), carved gourds, weaved bags, wooden nativities, vegetables, meat, etc.

This was our view outside the window of our hotel room in Quito. Check out that traffic!

We made it to Ecuador! This was taken right as we arrived at our hotel in Quito at about 1 in the morning. We had to take those two blue bins which were stuffed with medical supplies with us on the airplane.

Thank you for your prayers while we were in Ecuador! We miss it and can't wait to go back.

Medical Mission Ecuador

2010-03-04T19:28:00.003-07:00

For ten beautiful days we were captured by the pure happiness of the Ecuadorians.
Hundreds of children, teens, and adults all traveled miles hoping to be cured of their deformities by our team of magnificent doctors...and even though only a fraction of those people were able to receive surgery, all considered themselves blessed to simply be seen by our American staff.

How is it that we can have everything, but have nothing at the same time? My heart was in shock as I watched those sweet, happy, pure, and respectful Ecuadorian people meander throughout buildings and roads without shoes, without food, carrying loads of goods to sell or babies on their backs...they are people with nothing, but have absolutely everything. The best part about it is that they know they have everything...they have a family, everyone is a friend, they have the sun, the rain...what else matters?

What else does matter I ask? Our fancy homes, the ten (or more) pair of shoes in our closet, the water that comes out pure and clean out of every faucet?
Not to the Ecuadorians...
LOVE everything.
keep a PRAYER in your HEART.
find a FRIEND in everyone.
discover a BLESSING everywhere.
be HAPPY for who you are.

As I step back and take a panoramic view of my life it is clear to see that material things tend to cloud cover the important things. Without needing to utter a word, the people of Ecuador have taught me numerous lessons... I will always be grateful for that.

keep love in your hearts...xoxo

Our little Dukie...

2010-02-05T11:18:00.006-07:00

We have a kitty that has MANY talents...

He climbs into Daddy's arms while he's praying...

Tests out the sleeves of Daddy's jacket to be sure they're warm enough...

Stays out of Mommy's way while she vacuums...

(Duke was so terrified of the vacuum that he hid underneath every pillow on the bed!)

Protects Mommy's make-up EVERY MORNING...

Sleeps like a CHAMP

(If you can't tell...)

And loves to bask and play in the sunshine every afternoon.

Shane and I love Duke so much we can't even believe it! It is going to be so difficult to leave him for ten days...I can't imagine how all those mothers feel leaving their children for even a couple of hours!

We love you Duke!

We ain't done yet!

2010-02-02T17:36:00.005-07:00

Five sugeries down but one more to go

this darn recovery is moving so slow!

Please jaw cooperate, let this one work

Because at this point I'm going berzerk.

Don't misunderstand, I love my new bite

but this little joint just isn't quite right.

March the thirtieth is the day,

I hope this is it, oh I plea and I pray!

Open it up, clean it all out

Then sew me back up without any doubts!

Pretty Please?

xoxo

What's your excuse?

2010-01-19T13:10:00.005-07:00

For the past three years, I have been a big supporter of public transportation. After Shane and I got married, he too jumped on the boat with me on the subject. For my birthday in 2008, I got a bike to ride to and from work...not only would it save some money, but I would be decreasing the amount of harmful chemicals that plague our earth today. Shane and a few fellow employees made use of the awesome carpool lane on the freeways on their commute to Murray and back. Shane also uses the Frontrunner train and UTA buses to and from school, all in hopes of making the small difference in improving our air quality. Shane and I also love to walk to church...just one more small way to prove that we don't NEED our personal vehicles.

This past sunday was cold. And foggy. And the air was filled with pollutants. And we were almost late for church. "Can we please take the car to church today?" was my plea to Shane. After just slight hesitation he agreed...with that crappy air it wouldn't be good to walk anyway. We hopped in the cold car and as we pulled out of the driveway we saw our friends, Marianne, Chris, and their adorable baby Camden, all wrapped up and WALKING to church. Shane and I looked at each other and knew we both had the same thought in mind... what was our excuse for driving to church? We live ONE BLOCK AWAY...it takes just as much time to drive as it does to walk! We complain about the smog filled air...well what did we think we were doing? Our friends live at least triple the distance away from the church, if not more...I hope they realize what an awesome example they have set for Shane and me. They walked to church when Marianne was overdue with Camden, they walk when it rains, they walk when it's hot, they walk when it's foggy, snowy, and cold.

We have NO excuse...

Help us reduce harmful carbon emissions...walk, bike, carpool, and make use of our public transit systems. We all want a healthy world to live in!

Surgery number 5...are we done yet?

2010-01-11T22:27:00.007-07:00

(Shane & I decided that it would be good to have this post for our records - not for sympathy votes! Thanks!)

THE LONG PROCESS GOES AS FOLLOWS...

JUNE 2007: Wisdom teeth are removed to open space for jaw surgery incision

DECEMBER 2007: Braces are put on to begin realignment of teeth

MARCH 2008: It is discovered that a tooth implant will be required to have complete function of mouth but there is not enough room for the gum advancement. A gum graft is required.

APRIL 2008: Gum graft on lower four teeth accompanied by a tongue clip is completed

JUNE 2008: Advancement for tooth implant begins

FEBRUARY 2009: Gum advancement is completed, date of surgery is set.

MARCH 2009: Tooth implant is fixated into lower right jaw bone; upper jaw is separated, shaved down, and fixed back into place with 4 titanium plates and 18 screws. Mouth is wired shut to help with healing.

MAY 2009: Return to work; begin to chew soft foods; upper teeth, lips and cheeks are still numb.

JUNE 2009: Braces come off!

JUNE 2009: New braces are put on...

JULY 2009: Beginning to regain normal smile.

OCTOBER 2009: Braces come off, again!

NOVEMBER 2009: MRI completed on left jaw joint to research why it is locked.

DECEMBER 2009: Left jaw joint is operated on to remove excess fluid.

JANUARY 2010: Jaw therapy begins, to be continued twice a week for the next six weeks.

While in recovery from my last surgery I supposedly requested a picture with my amazing oral surgeon, Dr. Blaine Austin. I have felt so blessed to have Dr. Austin be the one working with me...I will be very honest, the hardest part about all of this is having someone work on my FACE; my IDENTITY. I had so many questions...will I ever look the same? Will people still recognize me? It was difficult to put my trust into someone who would be dealing with the precious parts about ME. Before I went in for my maxillofacial surgery, I realized that Dr. Austin cared just as much about who I was as I did. I have been able to see Dr. Blaine Austin for almost 3 years now, and I feel lucky for that! He made a promise to me that he would try to calm my childlike fears of surgery and make me feel comfortable with the subtle changes in my face, my smile, and the way I can eat...I think the only thing that needs some work now is my fear of surgery!

Thank you to all of those who continue to support Shane and I in this seemingly endless recovery!

XOXO

A flash of red & white...throw in a little gray too.

2009-12-01T21:12:00.002-07:00

After Nutcracker auditions follow weeks full of hard work, sore muscles, and building new friendships.

I am the lucky teacher for the energetic Candy Canes...and it may just be my biased opinion, but wouldn't you say they are simply the best part of the performance? :)

These 10 girls worked harder than I've ever seen young dancers work...and every minute of the blood, sweat and tears was completely worth it.

And who wouldn't be able to applaud for such cute girls?

I enjoyed every minute of every practice and performance with these dancers...

I have also missed those monday nights and saturday afternoons being crazy with them!

Until next year...have sweet dreams of sugar plum fairies, soldiers, and sweet candy cane hoops!

********************************************************

Isn't this just the cutest little ball of gray you have ever seen?

He and Shane are best buds...Duke loves to help him with his homework (really just searching for some way to entice Shane into rubbing his little belly...)

After which he can't help but fall right asleep...anywhere he may be.

We sure do love you Duke...

Thank you for being such a fun part of our family!

xoxo

Meet Duke

2009-11-12T20:47:00.004-07:00

The newest member of our family!

Duke was born on 9.10.09

And had us captivated at first sight...

His quiet mischeviousness,

And calm, lovable personality,

Make him the perfect kitty!

Shane and I are so glad we decided to adopt little Duke...
he has been nothing but a little angel for the past 12 hours!

lots of love baby Duke...xoxo

I love the man he is...

2009-11-08T20:17:00.006-07:00

SURGICAL TECHNOLOGIST OF THE YEAR 2009

-SHANE STRATFORD-

My hubby holds many good qualities worth emulating...two of those qualities are his determination and love of hard work.

2009 has not been the easiest of years for Shane.

While working and going to school full time (which alone is hard enough) he took great care of me after my jaw surgery, feeding me, keeping track of all medications, and keeping me company while I couldn't talk or even give him one little kiss for over 8 weeks.

Soon after that tough time, Shane endured a much greater trial. During those 4 long weeks he never complained, and always kept his chin held high, looking forward to the day when he could return to work. Striving to keep his memory secure, he worked harder than ever to be the best surgical technologist he could. Despite all odds, Shane did just that. He exceeded the goal, just as he always has.

How blessed we both are Shane!

Thank you Moms and Dads for supporting and helping us through the thick and tear filled days...we owe many of our smiles to you.

Dad & Mom Stratford, Shane & Kenzie, Mom & Dad Ferguson

Shane sometimes I look at you and can't believe you are mine.

ALL MINE.

I love you to the stars and back...a million times!

all my love, xoxo

Just let it go...let it all go.

2009-10-23T22:56:00.002-06:00

Have you ever taken the time to be a kid again? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to practice the activities you were involved in as an adolescent? Have you ever thought about how much you miss it?

Well, I have.

I taught a ballet class tonight in the very studio that always brings back a flood of memories with every smell, every lightswitch, and every beat of music. As the last dancer walked out the door I began my normal nightly routine of closing up the studio...I flipped the lightswitches off, I picked up extra messes, and pulled my keys out to lock up. I stood at the doorway, looking back into that large open space, seeing images of me with my friends working up a sweat, learning, falling, and DANCING together.

Soon I found myself with a few lights back on... I slipped on my ballet shoes, and I DANCED. I know I may have looked ridiculous to anyone who may have seen me, but it didn't matter. During those few minutes I let myself go, I embraced the past. It felt so good to engage myself in something that I love...I still have so much passion over such a challenging sport.

I realized how good it is to just let go.

Just let it all go.

I did...

Now it's your turn!

much love, xoxo

A picture unloads a thousand emotions...at least for me.

2009-10-04T18:41:00.004-06:00

As I try to reflect back on the eventful night of July 7, I find it nearly impossible to control my heartfelt emotions.
After many sleepless nights filled with haunting scenes - flashbacks of living a complete nightmare, I am still struggling to overcome what I witnessed almost 3 months ago. Although these pictures don't seem to capture the emptiness and loneliness I felt that night and even weeks after, they are a reminder to me of the pain, the suffering, the lack of confidence, and most importantly, my feelings of love for Shane, no matter what happened or could have happened to him.

The moment Shane was hit an eggplant-sized subdural hematoma grew above his left eye. Because of the impact on his brain and the bleeding that occurred, he had no control over his body, his emotions, his words, thoughts, his memory...
everything.

All eight members of the soccer team had to hold his body as still as they could, attempting to overpower Shane's sudden excessive adrenaline. The image I have burned in my brain of this moment is too difficult for me to recall. Fearing for his life, the paramedics quickly contacted life-flight. I watched as my husband, not knowing who I was or why I was there, had his jersey cut off, IVs attached to him, became immobilized to a board and swiftly was shoved into a helicopter.
As I met up with him an hour later at the hospital he looked just like this...lifeless. He'd lay with his eyes half open, not focused on anything...not moving a muscle, not even a twitch. After a minute of this, he would burst into frustration, attempting to pull off every cord and every monitor as we struggled to keep him calm and explain, again, what had happened to him. Then again...lifeless.
Completely terrified, lonely, and lost...this is how I felt that night in the hospital. By three in the morning all family members were asked to leave, and I was left in a cold, dark hospital room staring at the person I had given my life to...the seemingly lifeless person who couldn't remember who I was from one minute to the next. I cried, I waited, I prayed.
I wanted to kiss the sun as it awoke, and as it peaked over the east mountains Shane opened his eyes and said...
"KENZIE..." What a miracle.
Although it was still unknown what Shane's injuries would do to our lives, he was okay...WE were okay.
After leaving the hospital Shane was able to come home. He slept for about a week straight, and wasn't able to do anything on his own. This is how he looked most of the time! Some of the bleeding on his brain drained down into his eye making it look almost black.

How grateful we are, and how blessed we feel for Brian's blessing during the complete nightmare we lived the night of July 7th. We both know that it is because of that priesthood blessing that Shane is not only here today, but doing incredibly well!

Thank you for your love, your prayers and your faith.
Thank you for all those times that you took my hand or picked me up off my feet and walked with me along this journey...
I could never have done it without you.

xoxo

PiCtUrE oVeRloAd!

2009-09-25T08:09:00.003-06:00

ReAL SALT LAKE SOCCER GAME

On July 24, Shane's dad took the family to the ReAL Salt Lake soccer game at the Rio Tinto Stadium. It was an awesome game! Little did Shane know at this time that the entire soccer team was aware of his soccer accident, and planning exactly what they wanted to do to lift my very own husband's spirits. Just a week after the game Shane got a surprise!

Yes...number 4 is Shane's soccer number...but what jersey is this?

A ReAL Salt Lake Jersey!! The co chairman of the team heard about Shane's accident and brought it to the ReAL team. The team decided that this is what they wanted to give to Shane...
An All Star jersey signed by each member of the team...
A ReAL Salt Lake soccer ball signed by each member of the team...
And a few other collectable items.
Shane just about died! It was so neat to see him recieve these gifts! Thank you ReAL!

BACKPACK TRIP TO THE WIND RIVERS!

(In backwards order...) Shane and I hiking out our last couple miles

The waterfalls were so beautiful! Shane fished both days we camped, and was successful! It was my first time eating fish and actually enjoying it...he must have known which ones to catch :)

On the second day we ventured out on a long day hike discovering many crazy things!

1. It is possible for 9 people and 1 small dog to boulder hop rocks the size of large cars right on the edge of a cliff! Over...and over...and over again...

2. There is a massive jungle located right in the rocky dirt covered Wind Rivers! I mean check out the...

3. MASSIVE MUSHROOMS! There were only about a dozen of these mushrooms (or should we say pumpkin pies?) lying right in the moist, mossy covered ground. Compare that baby to my foot! It's huge!

Me, Melanie, and Adrienne beginning our car size, cliff hugging, boulder hopping adventure

(It looks like the water is right off the edge of the rock we're sitting on...oh no, it's not!)

And here Shane and I are...CLEAN...and about ready to

experience another wonderful adventure! This was my first time ever backpacking and I was astonished at how much I actually enjoyed it.

The food was VERY tasty...really.

I discovered beautiful parts of this earth that I never knew could exist

I accomplished something I have always wanted to do

And the best part was being able to spend 3 full days with my love...

Now who would complain about that?

...xoxo...

2009-09-12T22:04:00.002-06:00

I must begin by saying I'm sorry,

I know our blog has been boring-not funny!

Suffered through trial, had lots of fun

Started back up at school, can't wait till we're done!

This has been our summer, autumn is falling near,

Hopefully we'll be back before the new year!

We're sorry it's been so long since any posts or pictures! We'll try to get some up as soon as possible.

(Hopefully before the fall semester is over!)

Much love, xoxo

mmm...I just love him.

2009-07-18T22:09:00.007-06:00

Through 10 long days we cried, we prayed, we waited, and prayed some more...

Through 10 long days we witnessed healing that was simply unheard of.

Missing the planned vacation with my brother and his wife was difficult, but during these 10 days it has been surprising how much I have enjoyed a much simpler vacation with my love! Eating simple things, playing simple games, taking simple walks...I have come to recognize yet again why I love Shane how much I do...it's because we can do nothing together and still know that we have EVERYTHING--each other.

After 10 days I can finally breathe, I can smile, laugh, and look at Shane with the confidence that everything is going to be okay. After 10 days, Shane is back to being the person I missed so much...himself.

After 10 long and simple days all I have to say is...

mmm...I just love him.

And how could I not? He is my everything, and life without him would be unlivable.

More pictures to come...my computer is having trouble downloading them :) xoxo

my thoughts...

2009-07-12T15:31:00.005-06:00

The past few days have been a whirlwind of tears and prayers...and sometimes when I think I'm finally becoming strong again my emotions hit me like a baseball bat and bring me back to reality. My fear has not left me, but neither has my faith.

The moment I laid eyes on the ailing love of my life, I clung onto the small threads of life as he was. I was shocked, I was terrified. Not knowing what to feel or think my mind was open to the spirit which guided me and held me up. There is a scripture in Matthew that states: "I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you." As the healing power of Brian's hands touched Shane's head I witnessed the power of the priesthood in abundance. How grateful I was for the purity and faith that I knew Shane possessed during that moment.

Life is fragile. Life can be terrifying. It can take you by the feet and drag you where it wishes...but in turn the Lord will pick you up by your hands and guide you where you belong. Through this trying time I won't let those words of the Lord leave my heart:

Kenzie,

"I will not leave you comfortless..."

I will turn to him.

keep Shane in your prayers...xoxo

The Lord's hand in ALL things...

2009-07-08T20:44:00.002-06:00

During the last 6 minutes of Shane's indoor soccer game Tuesday night he was seriously injured. After much trauma to his brain and a quick priesthood blessing he was life flighted to the hospital and found that his skull was fractured in three places and his brain was bruised with blood pooling heavily underneath his skin above his left eye. He was kept at the hospital to try to regain his consciousness as well as keep an eye on the amount of blood...if it began seeping into his brain Shane would be rushed into emergency surgery to drill holes in his skull to release the pressure. After many tears, and faithful prayers Shane survived the night well. He is not in great shape but is still being watched over carefully, not only by doctors and family, but the Lord as well.

Shane will be out of work and only allowed tolerable activity for the next four weeks.

Please keep Shane in your prayers. We have felt the power in your faith and know that if we do this together, Shane will be healed.

WE LOVE YOU SHANE...

120 hours of practice = 3 minutes of pure delight

2009-06-27T07:33:00.011-06:00

Who would have thought that these

CRAZY, RAMBUNCTIOUS & WILD

seven year old girls would turn out to be...

The most

BEAUTIFUL, GRACEFUL, & SWEET

seven year old ballerinas...

Sego Lilies-cast A

Sego Lilies-Cast B

Cherry Hill-Cast B

No matter how crazy they are, or how graceful they'll be,

they'll always be some of my favorite

SEVEN YEAR OLD BEST FRIENDS.

What a great experience it has been for me teaching these adorable girls in their pre-ballet classes at Clytie Adams' School of Ballet. I have learned so much about my LOVE OF DANCE and it has been so rewarding to share that with these young girls!

Can't wait for next year!

xoxo

Our neighbors may be having three babies, but WE'RE having...

2009-06-16T18:20:00.002-06:00

THREE BABY BIRDS!

Wish us luck with our first parenting experience!

xoxo

Interesting Anniversaries

2009-06-04T21:26:00.013-06:00

3 years ago today-Kenzie graduated from High School

1.5 years ago today-Kenzie was equipped with braces for the second time (Lucky gal!)

3 months ago today-Kenzie had surgery on her jaw

And what better way to celebrate than to spend the entire day with the man Kenzie loves SO much...and ending the evening perfectly by going to the temple together.

I love you Shane!

2009-05-27T22:33:00.008-06:00

WELCOME ERIC RUSSELL!

Sweet Eric was born on May 8, 2009 5:47 AM

weighing 5 pounds 14 ounces

19 inches long

My sister is now a wonderful mother to three beautiful children!

I love you Brooke...I couldn't have hand picked a better sister!

TARA'S WEDDING DAY

On May 21 Brooke, Mom and I were able to attend my cousin Tara's sealing. It was so fun to spend the day with just the three of us!

I don't think anyone would have guessed that Brookie had just had a baby less than two weeks earlier, do you? ;) You go sis!

FUN DAY, MEMORIAL DAY!

Shane and I along with our friends Mike and Rachel all went four wheeling...

Alright I guess it was a little more like MUDDING!

And it couldn't have been any more FUN!

See you next time! XOXO

Something that's on my mind...

2009-05-03T14:33:00.006-06:00

The day Shane and I were married a temple worker said something to us that we will never forget:

"The man may wear the pants in the relationship, but the woman chooses what pants he puts on every morning."

At the time the three of us laughed, but over time I have realized that there is a much deeper meaning of what he said.

I have thought a lot about this saying and today I have made the commitment to help my wonderful husband in choosing the "right pants" to wear each day!

I challenge you to do the same!

Happy choosing...xoxo

I looked out the window and what did I see?

2009-04-13T11:31:00.006-06:00

Popcorn popping on the apricot tree! AND...

FIVE GOOD KIDS, JUST AS ADORABLE AS CAN BE!

Easton, Nyle, Bryce, Lauryn, Savanna

My Mom and I, along with Holly and her kids (Bryce, Nyle, Lauryn) and Brooke with her kids (Savanna, Easton) all spent a fun day downtown. We headed to the JSMB to see the Joseph Smith movie which all five kids amazingly watched with harldy a peep! We then headed to walk the beautiful temple grounds. But no fun day in downtown would be complete without a splash in...

The Gateway water fountains!

And a bit of ice cream... :)

Thank you family for such a fun day...Let's play again soon!

I'll always love you...

2009-04-01T22:48:00.007-06:00

Two years ago today

Two young lovers made a pact.

They said, "I'll love you forever, not only just this day...

And promise to only be yours if you'll also love me along the way..."

How gentle was the man,

Smiles filled the young girl's face...

Dreaming of a home, & someday raising a clan...

They prayed the Lord would help them with their plan.

Two years have gone by, side by side

And the two lovers keep their pact to this day;

They say, "I'll love you forever, I'll always be kind...

And promise to be only yours if you'll always stay mine."

Thank you Shane for allowing me the chance to be with you for eternity...

I couldn't have asked for a better birthday gift on that beautiful, cool spring morning when you held your heart in your hands and I gave you mine...

I love you.

Getting better and getting out!

2009-03-28T21:00:00.008-06:00

Hello! I'm sure you realize Shane and I still aren't up to much, but I thought I'd post a few pictures to try to give an idea of the changes that have taken place in my looks and in our lives the past two weeks! Enjoy!

Here I am about a week after my surgery. We all decided that it looked like I had received a botox injection of my upper lip... what do you think?!

Here I am at my first appointment since my surgery. My Doctor is cutting off the bands that were keeping my mouth held shut...HOORAY!

Shane and I are on our way up to his families annual vacation at the cabin...it was so nice to get out and be with the family for a day! (Botox slowly going away...)

I was lucky enough to have two of my friends come visit me! Rachel, Me, Shar

They even brought me a basket of "Happy Easter Goodies" to bring a smile to my insides ;) Thanks gals...you're the best!

The past two weeks I have made phenomenal progress. No more botox lip, and my chipmunk cheeks are diminishing quickly! I'm continuing to work on my smile :) Thank you again for all of those who have kept my spirits alive during this recovery...visitors, family, and friends have greatly made a difference!

Come visit again soon!

Never take smiling for granted!

2009-03-16T21:52:00.003-06:00

One thing I truly have missed...smiling and laughing hard. It's been interesting to try to find ways to express my happy emotions, and I hope that from now on, I'll never take smiling and laughing for granted!

SURGERY PHOTOS

2009-03-10T18:27:00.008-06:00

Before surgery...I was feeling great!

After surgery...not so great

Because my mouth is now banded shut, Shane has to feed me only liquids through syringes and IV tubing. After 6 days of this, I'm hungry!

My biggest fan club! Shane, & my sister's kids, Savanna & Easton
While Easty gave me loves...

Savanna brushed my hair and colored me pictures Here I am with my husband, Easton and Savanna 6 days after surgeryI am still swollen and bruised, but I'm slowly working on those things ;)

I love you Shane and mom for taking such great care of me...I know it's so much work but it never goes unnoticed!

Thanks for visiting!

2009-03-07T16:15:00.002-07:00

WOW, it has been quite exciting the last few days. This is Shane, and I thought I would just give all ya'll an update on how Kenzie is doing. She went into surgery on the 4th for her upper jaw that we have so patiently awaited. Everything went as planned. It was difficult for Kenz at times, but she is such a trooper. She stayed in the hospital for the night and came home the next day. She is so exhausted. Everything she eats is fed to her through a syringe, therefore she has been very weak from the medicines without a lot of food. I love her, and I know everything will work out great. She will have to fill you on the details when she is able to. Until then, thanks to everyone who has helped, you are angels working miracles. May God bless you, and please keep Kenzie in your prayers.

Snowmobiling...Wahoo!

2009-02-28T21:38:00.008-07:00

The past few days have been kinda crazy...mostly because we're preparing for my surgery. Although I'm very excited to get this over with, my nerves and anxiety are beginning to really set in! Luckily, I've already taken care of most everything...Marquessa is going to be subbing all of my ballet classes, and I feel so lucky to have her! Yesterday we were able to make up all of the recital dances so she can teach them to the girls, then after that Shane and I headed up to the hospital to get all my blood work and labs done to prepare for surgery. The rest of the day was spent finishing miscellaneous tasks...needless to say, it was a long, nerve-racking, and stressful day! So we were pretty darn excited to enjoy a nice beautiful day snowmobiling with the Stratford family today!

Me, Melanie, Mom Stratford (with a few grandkids) and Deanne

It also turned out to be a beautiful snowshoeing day!

Shane can even climb trees in snowshoes...wow! :)

SUPERWOMAN STORY
Hello, I am Shane, the lucky one married to Kenzie. Now, this picture isn't just showing that Kenzie can sit and look dazzling on a snowmobile, she actually rides it on her own. All the girls went out riding and came back with a fantastic story of Kenzie's superhuman abilities. The story went like this: Kenz and Melanie (my sister) were riding fairly close as they approached a large hill. Eagerly they started to climb, Melanie going first, when they both realized there was a cornice at the top. Being too late to turn around, Melanie slowed a bit just before she crested the cornice. The machine was thrown a little sideways making a very difficult landing. She stuck it out and glanced back, praying Kenzie had not followed her. Nevertheless, Kenzie came flying up over the cornice, the machine leaped into the air and began to corkscrew. Fearing the worst, Kenzie jumped from the snowmobile midair landing on the snow and began to slide down the backside of the hill. After a quick ten or more feet, she popped up and jumped onto the snowmobile while it was moving, just in time to steer clear of some rocks. Melanie, soon after that, said it was like a scene from the Warren Miller Movie. So, I just wanted to take this opportunity to say, wow... what a WOMAN!!! That a girl Kenz! I love you!!

WE DID IT!

2009-02-19T17:26:00.001-07:00

Shane and I are now officially home owners!! We closed this afternoon and we couldn't be feeling better about our decision. I'll post pictures of our cute apartment that we'll miss, and of our new home that we absolutely love!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHANER!!

2009-02-12T11:07:00.010-07:00

February 11th was Shane's 24th Birthday!! He still had to wake up at 5:30 AM for work at the hospital, but luckily he got off early at 5:30 PM so we could go out to dinner with the family.

I am so grateful that I married such a patient, respectful, fun, hard working, dedicated and handsome man that I have the opportunity of spending my life with...

I LOVE YOU SHANE--I look forward to celebrating an eternity of birthdays with you!

The unexpected is SIMPLY FABULOUS...

2009-02-04T21:20:00.004-07:00

Two days ago I met with my oral surgeon so he could check on my progress. I opened wide, the doc took one look and said, "Whoa, you're ready!" He said that everything looks more than perfect and I could go into surgery any day. My appointment turned from a simple check up to a 1-1/2 hour visit taking x-rays, digital photographs, and planning for the surgery. My mom was with me and the two of us were about jumping out of our chairs we were so excited! I think it caught my dad a little off guard that it came up so quickly (he's VERY nervous) but both of my parents have been more than supportive...I couldn't ask for anything more. I am so grateful that I am able to get my jaw fixed and actually be able to keep the middle of the sandwich in my mouth once and for all.
I'M GOING INTO SURGERY MARCH 4TH!!!

2009-01-12T17:59:00.003-07:00

What a GORGEOUS ski day!

Shane, Jeff and I went up to Powder Mountain to go skiing and we had a blast! Keith (Shane's Dad) was able to meet up with us part way through the day too and it was so fun to have him with us. The boys took me on a small "back country" run with tons of powder...it was my first time skiing through an ungroomed run! It was definitely a lot harder but I loved it...there's just something so magnificent about skiing through fresh powder-I couldn't even see my skis! I want to thank not only Shane, but Jeff and Keith for helping me keep up with their amazing ski skills and for continuing to teach me how to become a good skier. You guys are GREAT!

Here I am in all that powder...Where are my skis?! :)

Snowshoeing

2009-01-11T21:13:00.003-07:00

After Christmas (which was very MaGiCaL by the way...) Shane took me out for a snow play weekend. We first drove up through Ogden Canyon to go snowshoeing. It was beautiful walking through the fresh blanket of snow and underneath the snow covered trees. We wished we could have gone farther into the canyon but I had to go to the bathroom so bad and we decided that the trees weren't quite big enough to conceal me from public's view...plus the fact that I'd FREEZE! So we enjoyed a nice short jaunt up, then down the canyon and headed to the condo for a blissful bathroom retreat...

That evening we were pleased to go out to eat with May, Ty, Madi, Kevin, Bri, Britt, Mav, and baby Slater at Eat's of Eden, the family's favorite pizza place. Then a few of us enjoyed the hot tub later that night.

What a fun way to make the best of the season...Thank you Shane!

Kenzie and Shane...

Here is Shane with his snowshoes on...ready to hike!

SAY GOODBYE TO THE FALL!

2008-12-14T22:00:00.003-07:00

Shane and I hiked up in Ogden Canyon at the beginning of the fall. It was the first time in my life that I actually liked the autumn...and it's because I took the time to enjoy it! Shane seems to make the most of every season so it makes it hard to pick a favorite now...all through the late spring, summer, and fall we enjoy hiking, mountain biking, four wheeling, camping, swimming, picnics, reading books at the park, feeding the ducks etc... In the winter we love to ski, snow shoe, bring all our blankets into the family room to have a "slumber party", and year-round, we love to take walks at night...it gives us time to let the world go and really talk with each other. No matter how hot or cold, we love to be out.

So here it comes...WINTER! I'm actually excited because I know my husband will make the best of it for both of us!

Park City

2008-12-14T21:52:00.003-07:00

My parents and Shane and me went up to Park City and spent a weekend in their condo for my mom's birthday... It's located right next to the old Park City Main Street. We went out to dinner at Zoom, shopped at the outlets, and sat out by the fire at night...what a relaxing and fun weekend! It was great to be together, and it made it even better to spend some time with Mom and Dad Ferguson.

California...we love you!

2008-12-14T20:42:00.004-07:00

Oh how we love California! In November Shane and I were able to go back to California, this time to my parents condo in Newport Beach. It was beautiful! The weather was warm, the sun was shining...but the best part about it was spending lots of time with each other. We went to Disneyland (which I really do believe is the happiest place on earth) and the Aquarium of the Pacific which was awesome! We had SOOO much fun. This is a picture of us at the Newport Beach pier...so beautiful.

NUTCRACKER FUN...

2008-12-14T20:19:00.003-07:00

Shane and I, all dressed up and ready to play parents!

2008-12-14T20:10:00.004-07:00

Here are all of us crazy party women in The Nutcracker!

Jenny Barlow, Christy Perry, Me, Jennifer Hart, Marianne Moody

2008-12-14T19:59:00.006-07:00

For the past two years I have had the opportunity to be in The Nutcracker, performed by Clytie Adams' School of Ballet. It is such a blast! Shane does it with me...he was pretty "iffy" about the whole thing, but he told me if I ran in the Wasatch Back, he would do it. (I'm still not quite sure if I'll be able to do the running thing!) But this year was the first year that I was able to teach dancers for the performance. I taught the "Candy Canes" and they were so fun! We had such a blast learning together...I was pretty tough on them but in the end it was all worth it.