Life is One Big Adventure

Call Me Dead Eye!

2011-10-21T08:13:00.001-07:00

I shot my first DEER! I can hardly believe it. I have been trying to get one for 5 years and last week I finally did. I think Ben was more proud and excited than I was. I stalked up on it and hit it with one shot at 330 yards (like I said before dead eye). I have to say I am pretty proud of myself, I along with Ben and our good friend Bart had to pack it out uphill under the full moon.

Overall, I have to say the best thing about this whole experience is that I was with Ben doing something we enjoy together. I can now officially say I am his hunting buddy.

Packing out the deer

Fall

2011-09-26T09:19:00.000-07:00

I Love this time of Year the leaves changing all around, and the weather is perfect. I have a lot of fun things going on this fall and I can't wait to share them with everyone.

I wanted to post some pictures of the last few weeks of summer but for some reason I can't get them to upload I will have to have Ben help me and post later.

I hope you are all enjoying this fall weather.

Grandma

2011-08-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

It has been forever since I posted anything I guess because I couldn’t find words for how I have been feeling. On July 11, 2011 our family suffered a huge loss, and although she was very sick it was hard to let her go. I am so thankful that I was able to spend her last hours sitting next to her surrounded by loving family. As sad as I am I know she is in a better place free from all of her pain.

Grandma, I will miss sitting around the table drinking coffee and chatting about everything and anything.

Love you G-ma

Gwendolyn Ann Green Oakden

“Hug ‘Em All”

Loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away on July 11, 2011 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born on December 8, 1938 in Tooele, Utah to Bush Lawrence Green and Ruth Thomas Edwards. She married William C. (Bill) Oakden, Jr. on March 8, 1959 and was blessed with three loving children. Her children, grandchildren and great -grandchildren were her pride and joy and she loved them with all her heart. Gwen was adored by all that knew her and always had an ear to listen, she was a confidante to many and always made you feel special. Her laugh was contagious and her smile could light up a room. Our Mom left behind loved ones that will miss her dearly, her husband Bill, her son William C “Bill” (Suz) Oakden III, Vickie Oakden and Becky (Casey) Valdez; her grandchildren Casey (Annie) Valdez IV, Brittney (Ben) Jones, Brandy (Tyler) Raleigh, Corey (Kelly) Sweat and Leslie Sweat; eight great-grandchildren Brooklyn, Paige, Olivia, Jayson, Tianna, Christian, Wyatt and Casey V that is on his way; nieces; nephews; brothers Clifford Green and Vern Green; sisters Ruth Atkinson and Jo Hayes; and many friends who she considered family (including her blue-eyed daughter Laurie Mace) and special friend Jeanine Casper.

Mom will be reunited with her mom, dad, sister Gail Green, brother Tommy Green, and grandson, Billy.

Our Summer So Far!

2011-07-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

The Jones house has had a fun filled summer so far and we are just getting started! I love summer the smell of fresh flowers fills the air, swimming and hanging out on the patio. I feel like it was a long time coming, but now that it is here we are in full swing.

Ben and I decided that I would quit my job and stay home and help Ben with his job. He has been really busy at work and it has been nice that I can get the little things done for him so he can focus on the important things with his job. I love being “retired” and I am able to spend some great quality time with my family.

Here are some pictures of our latest adventures.

Bow & Arrow

My Cute Mom and Me

Some of my favorite girls

My Sis

Brandy Double fisting it

A day at the pool

Brooklyn Ray (First time taking the boat out)

Paige, Tyler, Olivia & Brandy

It is hard to tell in this picture, but while Olivia was on the tube she feel asleep. Paige is our little dare devil she kept telling Grandpa to go faster and do turns.

MOM

2011-05-08T09:03:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

See this women she is the best lady in the world. She would do anything for anyone and is always there for me. Mom thanks for all that you do for me I don't know where I would be if your were not in my life. I hope to one day share with my daughter the bond that you and I share

Love you Mom

Finally a post!

2011-01-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

Sorry people I have really slacked these past few months on blogging. I have been really busy working and trying to put the house in order. I promise I will blog more this year.

2011 has been full of fun days so far. Ben has been traveling a lot for work, but was able to take a break and ski Mount Baker a couple of weeks ago with a few friends. I had the pleasure of Watching Olivia for the weekend. We had a great time relaxing, learning to use the stairs and bonding with Aunt Britt. I love being an aunt and am excited for August when Casey and Annie will welcome baby #3.

Here are a few photos from the last couple of months.

Arizona Football game with Mom & Dad

Elk Wintering in our back yard Bow and Arrow not very happy about this, But it is very cool to see everyday.

Merry Christmas

Brooklyn Ray

Olivia

Paige

Ben Snowboarding at Mount Baker

As I mentioned earlier I will try and post more often :)

Who Grows Big Pumpkins?

2010-10-07T20:01:00.000-07:00

The Jones family does. We planted Giant Pumpkin Seeds this past spring and we really did end up with giant pumpkins. My pumpkin weighted in at 150 lbs and Ben's at 140 lbs I was so excited when I ended up with the biggest. Ben is determined to beat me next year. Sorry babe not going to happen.

Summer Fun!

2010-08-08T17:50:00.000-07:00

These past two weeks we have had some summer fun. Last weekend we went to Lagoon for Chevron day and this weekend we had Brooklyn and Paige up for the Wasatch Fair days. Wells Fargo had the stage coach in the parade, so Paige and Brooklyn were able to ride in the parade. We had so much fun having a slumber party with the girls. As Brooklyn put as I was driving them home this afternoon "Why must all Fun Things Come to an End"

Thanks Brooklyn and Paige for coming up and spending the night with Uncle Ben and Aunt Brittney.

On our way to Lagoon! The sun was in her eyes

First Ride The kid Swings

Fun With Grandpa

Wells Fargo Stage Coach

On the Tilt a Whirl at the fair

Meet Arrow!

2010-07-28T19:57:00.000-07:00

We got a new Puppy that is full of energy! We already love him so much and are adjusting to having a new member of the family. Welcome to family Arrow!

Here he is trying to be like his Brother

Snuggling with his Donut Chew Toy

William C. Oakden (Little Bill)

2010-07-12T18:29:00.000-07:00

WILLIAM C. OAKDEN IV

William C. Oakden IV "Billy" Our precious son, grandson, nephew, brother, fiancé, father and friend tragically passed away on July 9, 2010. He is now in the arms of our Savior. He was born on February 21, 1980 to Kelly Oney and William C. (Bill) Oakden III in Salt Lake City, Utah. He enjoyed camping, fishing, all sports and being with his family and friends. His world revolved around playing with his son, Christian and teaching him to play sports. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. He is survived by his father Bill (Suz) Oakden; four year old son William Christian Oakden V; fiancé Celena Roll; sister Leslie Sweat; brother Corey Sweat; grandparents Bill and Gwen Oakden and Carolyn and Julian Dicks; uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Preceded in death by his mother Kelly Oney and grandmother, Lilly Hofhines. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, July 14th from 7:00 until 9:00 at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake. His ashes will be inurned later at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, Salt Lake City. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made for his son in the name of William Christian Oakden V, at any Wells Fargo Bank location. Online condolances may be offered to the family at www.starksfuneral.com

This week has been a hard week! My cousin Billy died on July 9th. These past few days as our family has gathered I look around and thank the lord that we have family to love and hold on to during this hard time. Life is so short and we often forget to tell the ones we love that we love them. I think about growing up and how much we loved to get together with the cousins running around being kids. I loved those days and I know Billy did as well.

Billy, I know you are in a better place, free from pain. I love you and will always remember you.

As Annie posted on her facebook page

“Love is stronger than death even though it can't stop death from happening, but no matter how hard death tries it can't separate people from love. It can't take away our memories either. In the end, life is stronger than death.” -Unknown

Olivia Michelle Raleigh

2010-04-24T17:47:00.000-07:00

Olivia Michelle was finally born April 12, 2010. I say finally because it felt like I had been waiting for her for so long. What an amazing experience it was to be there the day you were born. My love for you is so strong, probably because we share the same name :0

I LOVE YOU OMR

Bonding with Aunt Brittney

So Beautiful!

The Dirty 30!

2010-03-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

Happy 30th Birthday to the best husband. I hope you have a wonderful day.

Were Back!

2010-01-09T16:08:00.001-08:00

Ben and I have officially moved back to Utah. Washington was a wonderful place to live, but Utah is where our hearts have always been. I am so grateful Ben works for a company that cares about our quality of life and happiness. We are now looking for a house and hope to be settled soon.

Snowshoeing in Heber

Welcome to the World Hudson Warner

2009-11-26T09:49:00.000-08:00

On November 11 my beautiful Nephew Hudson was born. I have not meet him yet, but I already love him so much.

Ben is so excited to have a nephew, he has already loaded up on the camo and is planning his first hunting trip.

Here is a picture I received when he was a few days old

Guess What...

2009-11-26T09:44:00.000-08:00

We are Moving back to Utah! We are so excited to be back close to all of our friends and family.

More details to come

Loves

The Big 50

2009-11-26T09:29:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my dad who is turning the big 50. I hope your day is filled with lots of fun and laughter. I wish I could be with you today to celebrate.

California

2009-07-29T15:13:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Ben and I were able to take a little trip to California for a friends wedding. We flew in a couple of days early and stayed in Monterey. On Saturday we went to the Monterey bay aquarium, if you are ever up there I highly recommend it we had such a great time seeing all the fish and wildlife. Sunday we drove down the coast to Cambria, on our way there we had noticed on a lot of the shores were seals. We thought it would be cool to stop and get a picture of all the seals, as we walked up we saw that they were elephant seals. After talking to a man from the friends of elephant seals foundation seeing them is a rare event. They only come to shore twice a year once in the winter to mate with the females and in July to shed the rest of the time they are out in the ocean.

The wedding in Cambria was beautiful the bride and groom looked amazing. We are so happy for Gabby and Brandon to start their lives together.

Lake Powell!

2009-07-09T10:51:00.000-07:00

Warning lots of pictures!

As our family vacation this year we decided to go to Lake Powell for a week of relaxation. We had such a wonderful time hanging out and doing whatever we wanted.

Thanks fam for a wonderful time.

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Tulip Festival

2009-05-20T11:57:00.000-07:00

My mom came up for a visit so we decided it would be fun to go to the Tulip festival. I was a little disappointed because not all the tulips had bloomed yet. We still had a great time walking the fields going to La Conner, shopping and eating some yummy food. Thanks mom for coming up and visiting.

Tulip Angels

Yard Work!

2009-05-20T11:17:00.000-07:00

While Ben was out of town a couple of weeks ago I thought it would be nice to get some yard work done so he didn’t have to do it over the weekend. I guess I didn’t realize how hard it is to dig up grass, take down a fence and pull up blackberry bushes. By the end of the week I thought I was going to die, yard work is hard and I was exhausted. When Ben came home all he had to help with was planting the flowers. I must admit I am pretty proud of myself for doing all that hard work.

I didn’t take any pictures before but here is the end product.

Bow, he loves being outside

Proud Wife!

2009-04-28T10:00:00.000-07:00

I have to blog for a minute about how proud I am of my husband.

Last week Ben was promoted as Client Executive for Defined Contribution. This is something Ben has wanted for a while and I’m glad to see his hard work paying off.

Ben I am so proud of you and I know you are going to rock your new role.

Congratulations babe!

Dexter

2009-04-06T16:22:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my cousin Dexter came up for a visit. It was so much showing him around Washington. We did so much while he was here and he was in luck, because the sun was out all weekend. On Friday we headed to downtown Seattle where we did the underground tour and pike’s market. That night we went to our favorite Sushi place where Dexter bet Ben to eat a raw oyster after about an hour Ben finally ate the oyster. We had to hear the rest of the night that the oyster made him sick, Dex and I laughed for about an hour. Ben was able to hang out with us on Saturday and we kicked off the day with the MS walk and then went Geocashing on Gig Harbor. Sunday before he left we went to the Space Needle and then over to Alki beach to walk the board walk. I am so glad he was able to come up and can’t wait for the next time. He is such a good teenage boy, and I can’t believe how fast he is growing up.

Thanks for the wonderful weekend Dexter. Love you

Building a fire in our backyard

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVE!

2009-03-05T15:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday! I hope you had a wonderful Birthday. 29 and still counting, I am so lucky to have you in my life.

Cheers to many more Birthday's.

Loves

Mt. Baker, New Dishwasher & Leavenworth

2009-02-20T10:50:00.000-08:00

As you can see we have had a busy couple of weeks. It all started Super bowl weekend we went up to Mt. Baker with one of Ben’s co-workers. We had a blast at their cabin. It was so fun to get away for the weekend. Ben & Justin went skiing for the day while Erin and I stayed back at the cabin with there cute little man. The skiing wasn’t very good but the boys still had a blast.

Ben Stretching after a long day on the slopes

I can ski!

You know your cool when you keep you helmet & goggles on inside

That next week I went to turn on the dishwasher and wouldn’t start. Stupid dishwasher! I had to take all the dishes out and wash by hand, and if anyone knows me I hate dirty dishes I can’t sleep if I know that we have dirty dishes in the sink. I felt like I was always washing dishes. I never realized how many dishes we used in one day. Last week we went out and finally bought a new dishwasher to have delivered and installed, but when the installers came they informed me that they could not install the dishwasher because the new water hose we bought would not fit from the sink to the dishwasher. They said they could come back later when we purchased a longer hose. Are you serious, I could not wait any longer so Ben and I decided that it wouldn’t be that hard and we would do it ourselves, boy were we wrong. After six hours, two trips to Home Depot and me getting my fingers smashed we finally had a new dishwasher. Note to self next time we will just pay to have them install it even if they have to come back.

The old dishwasher

The finished product!

This year it was Ben's turn to plan Valentine’s weekend, we had a little wrench thrown in because of the dishwasher but still had so much fun. Friday night we went to a really great restaurant and had a romantic dinner. Then Sunday morning we got up early and headed to Leavenworth, it is a little Bavarian town. We had so much fun, looking in all the little shops and eating some yummy food. I loved that it was snowing it really made for a great time. I can’t wait to go back this summer, for white water rafting, biking and all the fun outdoor activities.

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart." --Helen Keller

Great Husband!

2009-01-29T18:49:00.000-08:00

I Just wanted to hurry and say I have the greatest husband in the world. Two weeks ago he came home from a business trip and informed me that he would be gone all the following week including the weekend. Knowing that I would be all by myself over the weekend, he called my sister and set up for her to come up and visit for the weekend so I wouldn't be by myself. I loved that he thought of me and I had a wonderful weekend with my sister.

Love you babe

4th Photo

2009-01-22T17:54:00.000-08:00

Okay so I was tagged by Kathy, here you go Kathy

Miss you

Ok here are the Rules....

Go to your album where you store your photos post your 4th photo in that album. No exceptions!!!

Here is my 4th picture, it is the day Paige my beautiful niece was born. Paige has such a cute little personality I have loved watching her grow this past year. She is always excited to see me when I come to visit she always has open arms and plenty of kisses. Love you Paige!

Okay now I get to tag four people and they are Lauren, Annie, Brandy, and my mom

Making Sausage

2009-01-20T18:22:00.000-08:00

So as many of you know Ben and I love to hunt. We decided last year that we would save up all of our duck and make sausage out of it. Yesterday Ben and I pulled out all of the duck and made homemade sausage. We had a blast grinding the meat and making the sausage, it was so nice spending the afternoon together learning something new. We decided that this is going to be a annual thing, can’t wait till next year…

Clam digging!

2009-01-20T17:57:00.000-08:00

I just have to start out and say I am one amazing clam digger. Ben, Jordan (Ben’s brother) and I went clam digging and although it was really cold and windy we still had a blast. I was amazing that night I dug up seven out of the nine we got. Ben thought he knew what he was doing and left me to do my own thing. Boy was Ben wrong I was pulling them up left and right. Jordan, you should have stayed with me. J I finally found something I can beat Ben at and have not let him forget it. Here are some pictures from that night.

Here comes 2009!

2008-12-31T10:23:00.000-08:00

As 2009 is coming near! I wanted to say goodbye 2008 and hello 2009. We hope that 2009 treats us a little better than 2008. Here is a re-cap of our bad luck this year.

1. Bow shatters his leg due to his mom throwing him from the four wheeler 25 weeks of pins and physical therapy.

2. Ben backs into a pole while in a rental car (Ouch there goes our insurance)

3. Ben gets ticket for not yielding for three seconds before turning right (stupid photo cop)

4. Ben gets speeding ticket on the way home from hunting.

5. Ben gets into another accident thank goodness it was not his fault.

Looking back on all these things, I can see that they weren't too bad (except for Bow's leg). We made a lot of memories in 2008 and we look forward to 2009 and what this year will hold for us

I thought this picture was funny of Ben so I had to post it.

Loves

Christmas Cheer!

2008-12-31T10:00:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful time in Utah I loved that it snowed and we had a white Christmas. We were so busy while we were their, but loved every minute of it. Ben and I started the week out by going to look at lights at Thanksgiving point, it was a blast being with Ben's family and listening to Lucy come up with funny things to say.

After Mass on Christmas Eve we headed up to my Aunt and Uncles house for our annual ValDez Christmas party. We had such a wonderful time laughing, drinking and catching up with all of our family (I miss them so much).

We split up Christmas this year, the morning was spent with Ben's mom who made a wonderful breakfast. We were glad that Grandma Syphus decided to join us it was really nice spending time with her. Thanks Mary for the wonderful time at your house. Then we headed to Megan's to meet up with Ben's dad and Wife for the afternoon. The evening was spent with my family eating dinner and opening up presents.

We decided that we should leave early because of bad weather and good thing we did we got stuck in Ontario Oregon and had to spend the night until they re-opened the highway. Had we left when we were going to we still wouldn't be home, They shut down highway 84 right after we went through on Sunday. We made great memories driving to and from Utah and both Ben and I decided that next year we will fly.

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

Utah here we come!

2008-12-19T11:12:00.000-08:00

Bags packed, presents wrapped, Bow packed all we need is for the weather to get nice. We planned on leaving for Utah today, but the weather here has been so bad. The news said last night that it hasn’t snowed this much in Seattle in almost 18 years. Wow! I woke up yesterday thinking I was already in Utah

Last night the weather got really bad, the roads were like a huge ice skating ring and then it started to dump and disaster hit Seattle. I had dropped Ben off at work that morning because I needed to take the truck in to get some work done. Around 5:00 he called and said to come get him, I jumped in the truck thinking this thing can get anywhere. Next thing I know I am sliding down this big hill by our house and into a ditch I go. Every time I tried to go anywhere I would fall farther down. I called Ben and the minute I heard his voice I started to cry. I didn’t know what to do and he had no way of getting to me. Our nice neighbor (that I had never meet) saw what had happened, so he ran over said don’t move I will get help. His wife and a few others came to my rescue and got me out. The only bad thing is I couldn’t turn the truck around so I had to reverse all the way back down to my house. Once at the house I checked the truck no damage (thank goodness). I went inside and what do I do? Call my dad he always makes things better. Ben ended up finding a ride, but the road into our neighborhood was closed so he had to walk in about two miles in a suit and dress shoes. What a trooper, by the time he got home he looked like a snowman because he was covered in snow. I am so thankful nothing serious happened and we both made it home safe. Now we are just waiting for ice to melt so we can get out of out neighborhood.

After Ben warmed up he was like a kid begging to go outside and play in the snow. He wanted to take the Ranger out and spin donuts. He was so cute out there laughing so hard. I took a video but it is really dark. He ended up helping three other people out last night they slid into the same ditch as me. Thank goodness for the ranger.

For a City that never get snow, our house sure got snow

Weekend!

2008-12-09T18:18:00.000-08:00

Ben's cousin Andy and his family drove up to Washington to visit us this past weekend. (I of course didn't take any pictures) We had such a blast with there cute boys Gavin and Max. They were so much fun to hang out with and kick off the Christmas season. Emily and I were able to sneak away on Friday and do some much needed shopping. It was so nice to have someone up here who likes to shop as much as I do.

On Friday night we went down to Bellevue Square to watch the parade of little drummer boys. I love going down to the square. You sing songs, have fake snow everywhere and people are so friendly. They were giving out peppermint lollipops which we all feel in love with. We even made Andy go to the store that night to get more for us. This weekend past by way to fast,but it was sure fun to hang out and spend some time with family.

Our little Trooper

2008-12-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

Bow is finally better! Bow officially had the last of his pins removed last Wednesday. I can’t tell you how excited we are that he is all better and we can now focus on getting his muscle back so he can one day run again. He is such a trooper, 24 weeks of pins sticking out of his let. Thanks to The Animal Emergency Clinic of Tacoma for fixing and taking such great care of Bow.

Christmas

2008-12-03T10:38:00.000-08:00

Can I just say I am so excited for Christmas! I can't wait to head back to Utah to see snow and spend some time with family and friends. Christmas time is all about being with the people you love, sharing memories and remembering what life is all about.

I am so thankful for the life I have, and what a great life it is....

I Just Wanted to Say...

2008-11-22T10:26:00.000-08:00

GO UTAH

I LOVE FOOTBALL

2008-11-06T13:51:00.001-08:00

Saturday I flew into Denver to meet up with my Dad, Annie and Casey to go to the Broncos game. Since the game was not until Sunday we thought it would be fun to go to the Coors plant and see how beer is made. Once we heard we would be getting free samples we were all pumped to go. The tour was really interesting and it was cool to see how the beer is made. I have to say Beer does taste better fresh.

On Sunday we headed to Invesco field early to see if there was any tailgating, much to our surprise they had lots going on. Annie and I decided we would show our love for the Broncos and get our faces painted. I was only a Broncos fan for one night, I still love my GREEN BAY. We had such a blast even though the Broncos lost maybe next game we go to the home team will win. Go Broncos or not.

Standing outside the Coors plant

One of our free samples, our other samples were much bigger

This picture is so funny, it is a beer holder

Annie's huge Margarita!

We are so cute

Thanks guys I had a great weekend and can't wait till next year.

Halloween!

2008-11-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

For the Halloween holiday Ben and I decided to celebrate in style, well not really but we had a great night staying in and handing out big size candy bars. I decided to make homemade chili, cornbread, and sugar cookies that looked like pumpkins with all the works. I have to say the chili was yummy. Earlier in the day Ben and I carved pumpkins, we had such a blast. Ben decided this year he would carve something different so he choose a squash. Ben was so excited to have the kids come for candy, but for some reason we didn't have very many and Ben bought 60 big size candy bars. We have two boxes left, good thing I am not a huge chocolate fan or I would be in trouble. Ben is worried he is going to eat them all.

I hope all had a great Halloween.

This is Bow's pumpkin, we felt he needed his pumpkin carved.

Who would of thought I am this amazing

Ben's squash, he has such a good imagination.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

2008-10-31T11:05:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a safe and fun Halloween.

Hello!

2008-10-15T14:37:00.000-07:00

Hello my fellow bloggers! Sorry it has been so long since I have posted anything, we have been really busy with everything and I have been lazy. Ben has been traveling quite a bit and I have been busy with school.
Here are a couple of things we have been up to. The girls in our family had our first annual girl’s weekend. Annie, Brooklyn, Paige, Brandy and my Mom traveled up to Washington to visit me. We had such a blast, we laughed went on many adventures and even traveled to the good city of Forks. It was amazing how the town has embraced all the Twilight fans. Ben and I went hunting this last weekend and although we didn’t get a deer we still had such a great time, we really miss hunting in Utah and hope to be back soon. Ben and I are so excited Bow goes into the vet tomorrow to get his last three pins out. We could not be happier and I am sure Bow is even more excited. It has been a rough 17 weeks and we are looking forward to working his leg so he can run again.
Here are some pictures from the last few weeks.

Ben chopping away

We had a Deer walk right through camp, while cooking breakfast

My cute sister's

The girls minus Brooklyn she was our photographer

Vacation

2008-09-12T10:51:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of weeks we have been on vacation. Our vacation started out in Colorado, Ben had a conference at Keystone ski resort so we decided we would go up early and play before the conference. This place is very beautiful we had tons of fun kayaking, mountain biking, swimming and playing Frisbee golf. While Ben was working during the week I pampered myself and had a massage, relaxed by the pool shopped. Here are some pictures.

Don't you love the lifejacket?

The view from our room.

Hiking in Keystone.

Great shot!

After five wonderful days we headed back to Seattle for two days to take Bow to the vet and pack for our next trip. We flew into Utah and drove down to Lake Powell, it was such a blast. The weather was perfect the water was perfect and the company was great. Ben’s mom, sister and her family along with a couple of friends all came down. We did a lot of fishing, swimming, and wake boarding and just about anything else you would do at Lake Powell. What a great time I can’t wait for next year.

She is so cute!

Happy Birthday Princess Lucy

2008-08-22T09:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Lucy!
Tomorrow our beautiful niece turns 3. She has such a funny personality, I love that you like to dress up like a pretty princess and go out fishing. We hope you birthday is everything you dreamed of.
Love you
Uncle Ben, Aunt Brittney & Bow

Fun Couple of Weeks!

2008-08-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

The past couple of weeks have been so much fun. My parents came out to visit us and I must say we had a great time laughing and exploring Washington. On Friday we decided to take them fishing for Salmon and dog shark. We had a great time my dad was definitely the winner on the most caught fish, he caught about a dozen sharks every time he would put his pole in the water he caught something. My mom decided not to fish and instead wanted to take pictures which she did and she ran out of battery early in the day. J At the end of the day right before we were going to get our crab pot, I landed my first ever Salmon I was so excited that I about passed out. I had always heard they were fighters, but I could barley hold the pole up. Once we got the fish in we headed back to the dock while my dad and Ben went to fetch the crab pot about an hour away. At the dock this nice guy who works for the DWR said he would clean the fish for me. I was happy about this because I probably would have gotten sick and passed out. After the boys got back we headed home to have my dad’s famous crab boil (famous to me anyways) and Ben cooked up the Salmon. The food was great and the Salmon was amazing.

My Huge Fish!

My mom holding the only Crab that we caught, as you can see it is missing a claw.

On Saturday we went down to the horse track to watch the horse's race. Neither Ben or I have ever been to a horse track and we were excited to see what it was like. With my Dad’s help he showed us the ropes and in no time we had the betting thing down except for Ben and I kept calling it voting and not betting but we were informed very quickly that we were betting and not voting (woops). My dad could see that we were sucking it up picking the horses as we kept losing so he sat with us and showed us the ropes, after that we started to actually win back some money. The very last race we all went in on one horse my dad had a feeling so we went for it, and guess what we won. I again forgot my camera and didn’t take any pictures. I sucked this weekend at taking pictures.

Thanks Mom and Dad for coming up, we had so much fun.

This last weekend Ben’s dad and his wife Cathie came up to visit. It was nice getting to know Cathie and we had a wonderful time. We decided that since last weekend was so much fun fishing we would take them. The weather was perfect, but the fishing not so much. Randy was the only one who caught anything and of course he caught two dog sharks together, when we pulled them up they were a tangled mess. The highlight of the afternoon was that Ben dropped his pole in the water we have never seen him move so fast to save his pole. He had his arm in the water before we even knew what was going on, after he grabbed it and we knew what had happened we laughed for quite a while.

The next day before we took them to the airport we went and hiked the falls. It was so amazing and a lot of fun. I can't believe how beautiful the Waterfall is. It was quite humid but the hike was fun we messed around and had a wonderful time. At the bottom of the falls it so pretty and the spray from the waterfall felt really good.

Randy's awesome catch

My amazing jump! I'm ready for the olympics.

Reenacting how he dropped his pole in the water

Happy Birthday Brooklyn Ray!

2008-07-25T10:18:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy Birthday to the cutest 4 year old I know. I can’t believe that you are already 4. You have grown up so much and I am thankful that I am your aunt. Hope you have a wonderful day.
Love,
Aunt Brittney & Uncle Ben

Deadliest Catch

2008-07-12T14:30:00.000-07:00

Ben and I went fishing/crabbing for our one year anniversary. We only caught the bottom of the ocean and two crabs that we couldn’t keep. Even though we got stumped it was still fun to be out on the water spending time together. Thanks babe for such a wonderful year and can’t wait for the years ahead.

Pulling up the Crab pot

The awesome crab that we caught

This is the Sea Anemone I pulled up from the bottom of the sea

I made Ben hold it

Poor Bow!

2008-06-26T16:06:00.000-07:00

Our dog Bow has had a bit of bad luck. On Saturday Ben, Jordan and I were four wheeling with the Ranger, Bow was sitting in the back of the bed and on our way back to the truck he was bounced out and shattered his Femur. I was driving and tried to avoid a bump so he wouldn’t be tossed out and instead turned to hard and threw him out. We knew the minute he hit the ground that he hurt something, he was crying and trying to stand up. We made it to the Vet about an hour and half later to find out he shattered his femur and was going to need surgery. He had the surgery on Monday; the surgeon had to insert three plates and about a dozen pins to hold it together. He is hoping he won’t need any more surgeries but only time will tell. We were able to bring him home yesterday and he is resting and recuperating. He is in it for the long haul he won’t even be able to use his leg for another 12 weeks. To top off the whole weekend when Ben went to pick up Bow after the accident bow nipped him in the ear, we took him to the hospital after bow and they cleaned him up and taped it back on. I feel awful for what happened and praying for a speedy recovery for both my boys.

Ben's Poor ear

100 Things

2008-06-24T09:10:00.000-07:00

Lauren tagged me so here are my 100 random facts about me. Hope you enjoy!

1. I Love to cook and I watch Food Network all the time.
2. I am going to school for paralegal and will finish in January.
3. I love to window shop and go about three times a week.
4. My favorite color to wear is either black or white, but I am trying to branch out.
5. I am an aunt to three beautiful girls and I believe that they are the cutest in the world.
6. I love going back to Utah to visit and play with my nieces.
7. I love hunting and fishing especially fishing and I go with my husband all the time.
8. I could fish all day, I love going on Puget Sound and fish for dog shark.
9. I am afraid of the Ocean
10. I love Lake Powell.
11. I love my Sirus radio and listen to either Country or Fox News channel
12. I love Country Music.
13. I hope to one day open up my own business as either a party planner or a Met market.
14. I love to clean my house and find it very relaxing.
15. I hate spiders and make my husband kill any that I see
16. I love to talk on the phone
17. I talk to my mom and sister at least twice a day every day.
18. I tell my mom all my problems because she always makes me feel better.
19. I had some anxiety changing my name at first, but love that I did.
20. Starbucks coffee is my favorite
21. Yellow is my favorite color anything yellow makes me happy.
22. I can’t wait to be a mom
23. I would love to live international.
24. I miss is going to Trolley Wing Company with the girls.
25. I have the greatest friends in the whole world and miss them so much.
26. I like to watch TV after a long day
27. I like to be in control and know what is going on at all times.
28. I am very nosey and will stop a conversation to listen to what people are talking about.
29. I love to people watch anywhere I go.
30. I love going to weddings and watching how happy people are.
31. I love sitting outside to think
32. I really like to hike it is so rewarding when you have reached the top.
33. I love watching football but only watch it sometimes because Ben hates it.
34. I have been a Green Bay fan forever.
35. Last year was my first time going to a professional football game and plan on going every year with my dad.
36. I love the smell of rain when it is hot outside
37. I always want people to be happy.
38. I hate conflict and will avoid it at all costs.
39. I am a pleaser
40. I am not a big chocolate fan, but I love gummy bears.
41. I don’t hang up the phone without saying I Love You.
42. I love the sound of little kids laughing, it brightens my day.
43. I quit my job last year to go to school full time.
44. I love Ice cream especially Cold Stone Cheese cake ice cream with strawberries.
45. I want to live in Park City when we move back.
46. I feel safe when bow my dog is by my side.
47. I love love love when people come to visit me in Washington.
48. I like showing people a good time when they come to town.
49. I am addicted to reading people’s blogs and get on at least two times a day to see what is new in people’s lives.
50. I love hot weather, the hotter the better.
51. It makes me mad that we are in the middle of June and it is still cold in Washington.
52. I love to swim and use to be a lifeguard.
53. I always worry that I am not a good wife.
54. I have to sleep on Ben’s side of the bed when he is out of town.
55. I have to always answer my cell phone and feel bad when I miss calls.
56. I check my e-mail at least three times a day.
57. I hold in all of my feelings until I feel like I am going to explode.
58. I love strawberries and eat them almost every day.
59. Ben and I really love our dog and spoil him rotten.
60. I hate spending money on myself but love buying people gifts.
61. I am addicted to Chap Stick.
62. I have just recently started to like fish and crave it all the time.
63. I love plain cheerios
64. I love bowling and use to be on a bowling team.
65. I love pedicures and feel like every woman needs them.
66. I hate being late to things and get really anxious when I am late.
67. I love my GPS and hate going anywhere without it, even if I know where I am going.
68. I get excited about the littlest things.
69. I painted my whole house and feel that I am pretty good at it.
70. I love fresh cut flowers and have them in my home all the time.
71. I love going to the farmers market and getting fresh produce.
72. I eat Mexican food at least twice a week
73. I could eat Olive Garden’s breadsticks and salad every day.
74. I eat bread with almost every meal and crave it all the time.
75. I am very shy when I first meet people, but once I get to know them I will talk there ear off. 76. I have a hard time making friends, but once I do they are friends for life.
77. I love broccoli and cheese soup
78. When I see someone cry it makes me want to cry and I think about it all day
79. I hate scary movies
80. My favorite TV shows are all the CSIs and Law and Orders.
81. I love to watch mysteries on True TV
82. Summer is my favorite season; it means flip flops and long hot days.
83. My best friend is my sister and miss her so much
84. I hope to build my own house one day.
85. Ben and I have a five year plan.
86. I have to write down my goals for the week or I don’t get anything done.
87. Ben and I sit down monthly to see what we have achieved on our yearly goals.
88. I love paying the bills; it makes me feel like I am contributing to the family.
89. I am not good at taking shots and gag every time I take one.
90. My favorite beer is Bud Light and Bud Light with Lime.
91. Ben and I feed the squirrels in our back yard.
92. I am going whale watching this summer.
93. I love spending time with my family and miss the family parties.
94. My favorite holiday is Christmas and my Birthday
95. I would love to travel the world
96. Ben and I love going to movies
97. If I had to pick between sweets and bread I would always choose bread.
98. I look up to Casey and Annie’s relationship, they always seem so happy.
99. I love taking pictures, but I am bad about printing them.
100. I feel like I have the best life.

I tag Annie love ya!

Sturgeon Fishing with Jordan

2008-06-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

Ben’s younger brother Jordan came up to Washington for his birthday this past weekend. We had so much fun while he was up here. On Friday we went Sturgeon fishing on the Columbia River. Now I have heard Sturgeon can get really big, but I never knew how big. Jordan hooked an over sized Sturgeon and it took him just over an hour to bring it in and when he did I about had a heart attack that thing was so big. The pictures posted don’t give it justice. Our guide estimated that the fish was between 8 to 9 feet long and about 450 pounds, it is estimated that they live up to 250 years. Good job Jordan.

The beginning of the fight.

This is once Jordan pulled it to the surface

Way to go Jordan

Ugly thing

Jordan was not the only one fishing that day Ben and I pulled in our fair share, but nothing as big as Jordan’s. I can say that these things like to fight I had a hard time pulling in the 38 incher I hooked.

Ben and I caught one at the same time

The greatest husband!

Ben and Jordan

FURminator

2008-06-19T10:26:00.000-07:00

Okay so as most of you know Ben and I love our Dog Bow and most of you know I hate how much he sheds. A couple of months ago Ben and I were at a Hunting show and I saw a brush for dogs that is suppose to reduce shedding up to 90%. I wanted that thing so bad, but Ben said he could get me one for much cheaper. So last week Ben was putting in an order for Cabela's and being the husband that he is ordered me my FURminator. Well it came yesterday and I tested it out and to my surprise it works wonderful. I could have brushed Bow all day and still got hair. I love this thing; I brushed out so much hair I thought he was going bald. If any of you have shedding dogs or cats I highly recommend it. Here are some pictures.

It may not look like much, but it filled up half of a grocery sack

The Greatest tool!

My cute dog after being brushed

Turkey Anyone

2008-05-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Turkey hunting was such a blast! Ben and I had one of the best weekends up here since we moved, I think manly because I shot my first Turkey. I had a hard time at first trying to stay still; I was sitting on the ground leaning against the tree being attacked by red ants and hungry mosquitoes. In the late morning a turkey came in and boom I shot it. I was in such shock that I had actually hit the thing that Ben had to finish it off. I had shot a kill shot but Turkey’s are strong and that thing actually got up and tried to run. Thanks babe for helping me. Even though Ben shot a bigger turkey this weekend I think he was more excited for me because this was my first successful hunt.

Ben's Monster turkey

By the way Ben and I tried the turkey last night and much to my surprise it tasted just like the turkey you buy in the store. I was so determined that since it was a wild turkey it would taste different. Silly Me

Tulip Festival

2008-05-05T17:40:00.000-07:00

Ben's mom was in town for her Birthday and we decided to take her to the tulip festival here in Washington. Tulips as far as the eye could see. We had such a wonderful time with Mary and can’t wait for her to come back. Here are some photos of our fun weekend together.

Deceptions Pass

First post

2008-04-22T19:38:00.000-07:00

I thought that for my first post I would use one of my good friends survey so anyone reading this can get to know me. Hope you enjoy.

What is his name? Benjamin Jones or Ben
How long have you been married? 9 ½ months it feels like just yesterday.
How long did you date? 4 years before we got married
How old is he? 28, oldie
Who eats more? For sure it is him he is always hungry
Who is smarter? For sure Ben
Who said I love you first? I did and got no response, but then a few weeks later he said it.
Who is taller? Ben he is very tall
Who sings better? I do, but you should hear him sink in the shower J
Whose temper is worse? Mine sorry babe
Who does the laundry? I do, I don’t like the way he does it.
Who does the dishes? We both do, I wash he dry’s. I hate dirty dishes!
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I do but Ben sometimes likes to spice it up and switch.
Who pays the bills? We both do I like to think I am helping out in some way.
Who mows the lawn? Ben, I hate yard work it gives me a stomach ache every time I think about it.
Who cooks dinner? Mostly me
Who drives when you are together? Ben he hates my driving.
Who is more stubborn? I am for sure.
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Ben I am stubborn and hate to admit when I am wrong.
Whose parents do you see the most? When we are in town we try to split our time evenly.
Who proposed? Ben when we were duck hunting. So romantic!
Who has more friends? I would have to say Ben, but I have some great friends
Who has more siblings? We have the same
Who wears the pants? I would like to think I do.

I have the most wonderful husband and greatest life. I have a man who loves me unconditionally and I never knew I could LOVE someone as much as I love him. We are living everyday as an adventure and can’t wait to see what’s in store.