Welcome to my Blog

Starting Up!

2009-07-20T08:13:00.000-07:00

As most of you already know last week I was in Maryland at a photography workshop. We did many exciting things one of which was creating a blog for our business. You can check out mine by clicking here.

Exciting Things!

2009-07-15T13:05:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday I arrived in Maryland and since then have been interning under the oh so fabulous, Kristen Leigh, and learning with fellow interns Irene and Jessica! We're having so much fun!! I hate sneak peaks but I'm doing one anyways. Here's a first look at exciting things to come!

Four Teenagers

2009-07-03T09:39:00.000-07:00

Anna's birthday isn't until tomorrow but last night we celebrated! I can't believe that my youngest sibling is a teenager! And Mom and Dad can't believe there are four teenagers in the house at one time!

Ellen was the self designated "decorations coordinator" for the event. She did a great job! Maybe you should consider that as a job?!

Do those M&M's look different to you? They're strawberry peanut butter flavored! My first reaction was..."Ga-rooooosss!!! Who on earth would eat those?!" But I tried them and they weren't half bad. They won't ever be as good as regular M&M's, but they're tolerable.

Birthday Girl!

One of God's most precious gifts... close friends!

So the Gabriella and Mariah are super creative and came up with a fantabulous [I like making up words ;)] card for Anna.

They used candy for to fill in words of a poem that they made up!

Happy Birthday Anna! I'm so excited for all that the future holds for you! Trust God, surround yourself with close Godly friends, follow your dreams, listen to Mom and Dad [they hold your college tuition money in their hands!], and be yourself! I love you!

Portrait Session

2009-06-29T15:58:00.000-07:00

Meet Seth

He's five

Love those eyes

He loves to play baseball, football, and soccer

The End!

Our Adventures in Colorado

2009-06-12T21:53:00.000-07:00

I'll start off by saying we were there for one of the two weeks because a kid at the camp got the Swine Flu and the Health Department said everyone had to go home. Ellen, Dad, and I felt fine the entire time, and never got it.

Anyways, onto the good stuff. The camp far surpassed anything I could have imagined. Here are some highlights:

-Friendships. Despite the fact that we were only there for a week Ellen and I both quickly clicked with a group of girls. They felt like long lost sisters. We've been able to keep in touch since Summit and I love that! Everyone was really focused on Christ and it was such a great atmosphere to be able to share about my faith at the meal table, in the rooms, and classroom. I hadn't met any of these people before and yet it was so easy to start conversations and get to know them. I also had a great small group, that I loved sooo much and had alot of fun getting to know!

-Studies. We had amazing classroom instructors. Summit offers the best of the best, and boy oh boy do they know their stuff! We had a lot of classroom time and even though I was typically tired my brain was like a sponge trying to soak it all in.

-Landscape. Colorado is God's country, end of story. Seriosuly though if it wasn't such a long ways from our house I'd move there. Even though it was mostly rainy while we were there, I enjoyed spending time outside and looking at the magnificent mountains.

-Olympic Training Center. We got to tour the Olympic training center near Denver area. I love love love the Olympics and so I enjoyed looking at the training centers in person. Someday I'll go to the real Olympics... someday!!!

I'm excited because our Summit t-shirts are coming in the mail soon. Also, because Ellen and I are going back to Summit for two weeks this August for the last session. I was a little apprehensive just because our first experience was so amazing and I don't want to go back and be disappointed but I think I'm making the right choice.

Three trips to Colorado in ONE summer! Wow... I'm blessed!

I'm in Michigan and don't have any have Summit pictures on my computer but will get some on Facebook soon.

Family Session

2009-06-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

This afternoon I did a photoshoot for some family friends! The rain held off and we had a wonderful time at a park by our house.

It's About Time

2009-06-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

This post is longer than most but so much has been happening and I don't want to leave anything out!

Summit was even more wonderful than everyone said it would be, besides the fact it got cut short [that story will be in a different update, sorry for the cliffhanger]. It was so beautiful in Colorado and if it wasn't so far away I would move there.

I wanted to bring the mountains home to replace the mounds of dirt or "hills" we have here in MN.

Earlier this week our family dressed up, and went to the "Chanhassen Dinner Theater", to see "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers." It was a blast! The food was delicious, we had great seats, and the play was very well preformed and incredibly funny!

No, my eyes aren't normally this dark; red-eye reducation just got a little caried away.

Steak, potatos, and veggies? Yes please!

We were basically on the stage. It was great!

Add it to the history books, as of June 4th, Dad is 50!!! It's official both of my parents are "over the hill." We celebrated Dads birthday by surprising him at work with his other employees, Mom made a special dinner [of his choice], and we went out to see the movie, Earth.

Dad chose steak for his birthday dinner. Steak twice in one week = a good week!

Ladderball! That could come in handy at my open house if it doesn't rain ;)

We've got a busy week coming up. Uncle Brian, Aunt Judy, Sarah, Timmy, and Jared are coming on Thursday to help with graduation prep!!! Can't wait! Also, the day after my graduation party the family is leaving for Michigan for our annual two weeks vacation. The family has been doing a ton of work helping to prepare for the graduation party. I'm sooo thankful!

They've all been very faithful watering our brown lawn as well the new grass seeds we just planted.

Please ignore the quality of these pictures, the small digital camera we have is from the stone age and needs an update!

Leaving

2009-05-16T15:49:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow morning Ellen, Dad, and I leave for a two week worldview camp [Summit] in Manitou Springs, Colorado. I'm excited to leave, be in the mountains, and become equipped for whatever the future holds. I know the next two week will be filled with fun, learning [70 hours of classroom!], new friendships, and many surprises! Pray for safe travels, and eagerness to learn. I'm sure I'll have many updates for you when I get back.

Where I'm Headed

2009-05-14T07:54:00.000-07:00

For the last few months I've been prodded with one particular question. But it's not only me, it's all 2009 graduates. The question... "What are you doing next fall?!" At first this question didn't bother me but as the school year has come to a close and graduation is quickly on it's way I'm being asked this even MORE and we'll just say it's getting old. So here's a blog update to answer a few of the common questions.

Where are you going to school? The Association Free Lutheran Bible School [AFLBS].

Where is it located? Plymouth, Minnesota. Roughly 20 minutes from my house.

How long will you be there? 2 years.

Are you living at home? No. Not only is it required that I live in the dorms but, Joel has begun making plans to move his drum set into my room.

How did you find out about the school? The Bible school is a part of The Association Free Lutheran Congregations [AFLC] which is the denomination our church is a part of. I’ve also known about the school for awhile because many of my friends have gone there.

Is it really expensive? No. It's roughly $9,000 a year including room, food, classes, etc...

Why did you choose this school? Because, my Christian faith is very important to me and I want to focus on God two years before I continue onto another college. Some of the credits I earn will go towards my future degree, but my main purpose isn’t the academic credits it’s diving into God's word and drawing closer to him. Another reason I want to go is to find strong Christian friends. This may sound a little cheesy, and you many be thinking... "Go to college to find friends...?!" But here's the deal. Friendships are really important. I was talking to a friend yesterday and there were a few seniors from our church last year that have fallen away from God in a big way. Why? Because of the people they're hanging around. Sure I could find strong Christian friends if I didn't go to this school, but I know that by going to school with them and constantly being in the Word we'll be a lot closer, and I also know that these are friendships I'll treasure for the rest of my life. Woah, that was a long answer...

Who will you be rooming with next year? Her name is Brianne she is from North Dakota and I've know her for roughly 2 years. She's super fun and we're both really looking forward to rooming together! Next year will be her second year.

What’s next after AFLBS? After two years there, I’ll get an art degree for photography. Also, possibly a minor in some kind of web design or something. This is just the tentative plan and knowing me, will probably change within the next 2 years. God willing, photography will start coming together soon, and I'll have a business up and running within the next two years. I'm starting a business at age 18 and our country is in a "economic spiral downwards!" I try convincing myself that I'm crazy but it's a dream and what kind of person would I be if I didn't run after my dreams?

So that's that. If anyone has anymore questions leave them in the comment box and I'll be sure to answer them!

I know I'm not supposed to be fearful, but...

2009-05-11T12:07:00.000-07:00

...Joel's Driving! Is it just me or does this scare anyone else?

I don't know why he has such an angry face. Maybe it's the fact that he doesn't like his picture taken. All I know is that he loves driving TOO much [at least that's how Ellen, Anna, and I feel]. At least once a day he's begging Mom or Dad to take an unnecessary library run, or trip to the grocery trip, just so that he can drive.

This picture is even scarier. Mostly because he's driving MY future vehicle!!! I hope it lasts to the fall.

Lately he's been asking my parents if he can drive out to Michigan when we go in June. The family has voted:

1- Yes
3- No's
2- Maybe

Never Done

2009-05-11T06:28:00.000-07:00

Although Mother's Day is over a mother's work is never done. I'm sure moms everywhere can relate to this comic although true rendition of the day in the life of a mother.

Click Here!

Details Details Details

2009-05-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

A week from sunday I leave with Ellen and Dad to fly out to Colorado for a two week worldview camp called, Summit. I'll return on May 30th exactly two weeks before my big graduation party. In the week before I leave for Colorado I have made many lists [ I LOVE LISTS] detailing everything that needs to get done. Everything from renewing my license, finishing up a college application, doing math\science, shopping for summer clothes, to finish planning my graduation party.

Meanwhile, Mom had been gently prodding me with questions... What kind of food? Color schemes. Invitations. Guest lists. Decorations. Games. The list of details goes on and on. Yesterday I said,

"Enough. I don't care what happens you make all the decisions!"

I hate making decsions. If I can barely plan a graduation party without going crazy there's no way I'll make it through months of wedding planning in a few years [I hope my future huspand\mother-in-law lets me elope!].

So much to do so little time is what I've been thinking lately.

Here are a few quotes I found about time, I really liked them!

“Don’t count every hour in the day, make every hour in the day count.”

“You can't change the past, but you can ruin the present by worrying about the future”

“Lost time is never found again.” -Benjamin Franklin

Speaking of wasting time... what am I doing up at 11:40 pm... WRITING A BLOG! This was not on my todo list. Funny how things like blogging and facebook mysteriously become priorities when they shouldn't be, isn't it?!

My Guinea Pig

2009-05-04T20:01:00.000-07:00

Considering that I'm into photography, I'm continually looking for models, someone I can practice on. Fortunatly, I don't have to look far since I have breathtaking siblings who will model for me. This is my sister Ellen.

Gorgeous. Wouldn't you say?!

Sister #2... Anna. Coming Soon!

Actress in the House

2009-04-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday the youth of our church had a fundraiser: The 2nd Annual Mystery Dinner Theater. Six kids in the youth group, including Ellen, have spent the last few months memorizing their lines and practicing their parts. Finally, on Saturday we all arrived bright and early, decorated the basement, setup the stage, cooked the food, and welcomed all the guests. Everyone in the play played their parts perfectly, and no one forgot their lines. The premis of the play centers around a church bake sale, and a mystery arises when a duplicate loaf of "Lillian's famous date nut bread" appears.

The play was filled with humor, smart remarks, and suspense! Here are a few pictures.

Prizes for the audience fit the bake sale theme in the play!

Creative decorations hanging from the ceiling

Bright yellow flowers can brighten any church basement!

Ellen's character was incredibly sassy and sarcastic... she fit the role perfectly!

Ellen was found guilty of making the dulpicate loaf of bread, here she reads her final statement:

The day was a huge success. We all had a ton of fun and we able to raise a lot of money for camp this summer.

Chef Julia [kinda]

2009-04-11T11:13:00.000-07:00

You must understand something. I don't cook. A few months ago Mom left for a few days. After eating pizza for breakfast, lunch, and dinner I was eager to eat something else. So one morning I made, or attempted to make, pancakes. Easy, right? Not so much. Not one turned out. They were either gooey or burnt.

Cooking has never really been my thing. But this past Thursday Mom asked me to make supper. She was rushed, tired, and stressed. The last thing she wanted to do was make dinner. Without thinking I blurted out, "YES, I'd love to make supper!" A second later she was gone and I stood in the kitchen thinking... "What had a I gotten myself into?"

In the end, much to my disbelief, everything turned out! I don't think any cooking adventure of mine has ever turned out so well! The meal was a sucess.

My one mistake. Forgetting to take the butter off the hot stove! Half of it melted before I noticed it.

Hit and Miss

2009-04-05T21:02:00.000-07:00

There haven't really been too many "misses" this week, just the weather.

Hits

-Family from Michigan is here! My cousins and their four kids are visiting until wednesday. We've been to many parks, the zoo, MOA tomorrow, and a museum on tuesday. I'll post pictures later this week!

-Deep conversations. I love getting to know people, not just chit-chat.

- Lately it's just dawned on me how blessed I really am. Life goes so fast and this past week I was kind of able to just stop and be thankful for everything.

We saw this plant at the Zoo on Saturday. I don't know what it is about it, the uniqueness, color, or shape... but I just love it!

Gamer

2009-04-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

Our family loves games. Monopoly, Risk, Scrabble, Cards, Checkers, Phase 10, Apples to Apple, the list goes on and on. We have a game closet in the basement and it's continually overflowing! A year ago, our friends brought over a game called Bananagrams. Not long after playing we were hooked! We bought it for Mom on Mothers Day, and since then have played it during many family game nights. The game is a cross between scrabble and a crossword puzzle, but there's speed! I'd highly reccomend buying this game! For all you facebookers out there, there is a free online version that you can play solo or with friends!

Yes, I'm addicted

2009-03-30T14:07:00.001-07:00

Mondays are my least favorite day of the week. Maybe because it's the end of sleeping in, no more weekend, the beginning of school, and a schedule. Whatever the case, I always look forward to Fox @ 8:00... 24! I've never been much of a TV show junkie, with the exception of American Idol and The Biggest Loser [Yes, you can make fun of me!]. But this year, the family, except Mom, always goes downstairs with our homework and see how Jack saves the world every week!

Anyone else care to share their TV show addictions?

New Installation

2009-03-27T15:29:00.000-07:00

Lately the creative juices haven't been flowing, thus resulting in the lack of blogging. But this lack of creativity has forced me to start thinking and I've decided to start a weekly post I've named, Hit & Miss. Basically, just a high and lows of the week. So here's the first installment:

Misses:

- The weather. A week ago, I busted out the flipflops, short sleeve shirts, and began putting coats and mittens in storage. Minnesotans everywhere had an extra skip in their step and a bigger than usual smile on their face due to the extra sunshine. But, on Wednesday the temperatures dropped down into the 20's and yesterday I looked outside to see a dusting of WHITE covering the ground. My response has been, denile. I haven't brought out my coats or mittens. Instead braving the "frigid" temps by choosing to wear my flipflops. It's been worth it, but I do want the sunshine back.

- While I didn't get to watch American Idol either Wednesday or Thursday, due to the night change [grr... Obama]. I was saddened to hear that Michael Sarver got kicked off. I liked him and am sad to see him go so early.

- Have you ever felt a surge of inspiration to do something? And when you've felt this surge its the only thing you think about or talk about with others? Well, I got a surge of inspiration regarding my photography. I want to start my own business. But I feel stuck. I need to learn more, but I'm at the point where I can't do it on my own anymore. I need an internship. I need photoshop or something. But most of all I need money, money that I don't have right now. I hate when money becomes a road block to your dreams. I guess I'll just have to wait and be patient. Someday, that's what I keep reminding myself, someday.

Hits:

- On Thursday morning, a school day, I slept in until 10:30 [I'm usually up at 7:45ish]. I was able to sleep in because mom was gone early in the morning and wasn't able to come downstairs, bang on my door, and make sure that I was awake. Nevertheless, it was much appreciated! I love sleeping!

- Yesterday I went shopping. I haven't been shopping in months and I had a great time, especially with the great deals I found. At Maurices I found a pair of cute brown pants for $8. I also found a shirt, regularly $20, marked down to $4. I love sales!

- Speaking of surges of inspiration, I had another when I woke up this morning. But this time it wasn't about photography. Cleaning! My room hasn't received much attention from me lately, so it was about time. I took out all my clothes, and got rid of the ones I don't wear anymore. I cleaned out my closet, and am in the process of organizing all my cosmetics in the bathroom cabinets and my bedroom. I'm finishing putting pictures up on my wall too.

Happy Friday! Enjoy the weekend.

Giving up the Habit

2009-03-06T13:23:00.000-08:00

A little over a week ago I gave up pop for lent. In the past I usually either pick something to give up that really isn't that hard to give up, or I quit halfway through the 40 days. But not this year! So far, its been hard not to drink pop, especially when its either sitting in front of my face or being offered to me. I know by next week I'll be used to not drinking it, and it won't be so bad. I just have to remind myself why I'm actually doing it, and thats to remember Jesus and his sacrifice. Remembering that makes it so much easier to give up pop!

Did anyone else give up anything for Lent?

Outdoors

2009-02-23T17:50:00.000-08:00

I'm not a really outdoorsy girl. But when I have the oppurtunity to go outside and take pictures, it's a different story! I so often get caught up in the busyness of life, and taking pictures lets me focus on the basics of life, and capture God's creation. I'd encourage everyone to find something, anything to help them to slow down, take a deep breath, and just relax. This life goes by so fast and I think its so important to stop every once and awhile to just refect. For some it's taking a walk, reading a good book, sipping a cup of coffee, and for me it's taking pictures!

random things pt 2

2009-02-19T10:55:00.000-08:00

13. I eat my spaghetti without red sauce, and my pancakes without syrup.

14. I wear pants all year long and hardly wear shorts.

15. I enjoy looking at random people's blogs.

16. I'm a commited Vikings fan even though they never win and only ruin Minnesotans hopes for the Super Bowl.

17. I order off the childrens menus when I go to Culvers.

18. I don't like the thick head bands that girls are wearing these days... espcially the plastic ones!

19. I think groups like the Jonas Brothers, Taylor Swift, and Miley Cyrus\Hannah Montana are overated, and don't deserve their fame!

20. I think people way overedit pictures in Picnik and make them look dumb.

21. I enjoy watching the Biggest Loser, and yes, I do get laughed at and made fun of by my family.

22. I enjoy playing pointless games on the computer like Minesweeper and Solitaire.

23. I don't like roses and I hope my boyfriend never buys them for me.

24. I like gold more than silver, and pearls more than diamonds.

25. Sometimes I take showers at midnight [this happens about once a week]!

Good Fortune, Okay Maybe Not

2009-02-17T15:39:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago our family was over at our friends house having a birthday party. There were bowls of chocolate everywhere, and being the sucker for sugar [especially chocolate] that I am, I had a few. Okay I lie...I had A LOT! But seriously it's so much fun reading all the messages inside, and of course... simply eating the chocolate! Well in at least three of the chocolates I got the same message! Is that not a sign or what! I wonder what this means?

Well for all of you reading this and thinking, "oh no!!", Julia is becoming "new age" well...I'm not. I don't believe in these messages, or in the little fortune cookies at Chinese restraunts, but I do enjoy reading them.

***By the way... this blog is obviously going under some major reconstruction! Stuff is being moved around quite a bit, but hopefully I'll eventually get it all figured out!

Surprise in the Station

2009-02-05T12:13:00.000-08:00

The Goal: to make an advertisement for T-mobile.

The Cast: 400 trained dancers, dressed up as normal people [business men, grandma's, etc...]

The Location: Liverpool Station at 11:00

Prep Work: 8ish months of training

The Final Result: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VQ3d3KigPQM

My favorite part: The random people joining in to dance, and everyones reactions!

There are other movies telling how people felt; isn't it amazing how something so simple can just turn someones day around?!

random things pt 1

2009-01-28T09:32:00.001-08:00

So on facebook everyone has been posting 25 random things about themselves. I decided to blog my 25 things because I haven't blogged lately. Enjoy!

1. I love lists, and will write something [I've already accomplished] down just so I can cross it off. It makes me feel good.

2.I enjoy polotics.

3. I like the smell of sharpie markers.

4. I'd rather be hot than cold.

5. I play my music loud in the car with my windows up, even in the summer.

6. The first thing I notice about people is their hair and smile.

7. I'd prefer cleaning the toilet to vaccuming.

8. Custard from culvers is WAY better than ice cream!

9. I really like mirrors and have 13 in my room.

10. I listen to Christmas music all year long.

11. I don't have my ears pierced but buy earrings if they're on sale. I can't ignore a good deal :\

12. I love conversations in the dark.

I'll post the rest another day!

standing up for those without voices

2009-01-21T21:02:00.000-08:00

I recently heard about this piece of legislation that is trying to be passed, it will promote abortion and take away any and all restrictions that are currently exist. Here is a forwarded e-mail I strongly encourage you to read and e-mail or blog to your friends!

Dear Friend,

I'm writing to let you know about a terrible piece of legislation called"The Freedom of Choice Act" (FOCA).

FOCA would establish the right to abortion as a fundamental right (likethe right to free speech) and wipe away every restriction on abortionnationwide.

It will eradicate state and federal abortion laws that the majority ofAmericans support and prevent states from enacting similar protectivemeasures in the future.

Please read the expert analysis by Americans United for Life (AUL) and sign the Fight FOCA petition at: http://www.FightFOCA.com

I strongly encourage you reading this to sign the petition, and stand up for the millions of tiny little voices that will never be heard. I signed the petition on Sunday when there were 450,000 signatures, it is now wednesday and there are 500,000 signatures, but the number will only continue to grow if you join the cause and sign the petition!

God Bless!

Silly Sayings

2009-01-16T22:11:00.000-08:00

Lawrence Peter "Yogi" Berra (born May 12, 1925) began playing baseball in local American Legion leagues, where he learned the basics of play as a catcher. After rejecting an offer from the St. Louis Cardinals he signed with the New York Yankees in 1942. In addition to being a famous baseball player, Berra is famous for his tendency to malapropism [definition: an act or habit of misusing words ridiculously...] the English language in interesting ways.

For example:

"The future ain't what it used to be"

"A nickel ain't worth a dime anymore"

"We make too many wrong mistakes"

"Our similarities are different"

"Nobody goes there anymore because it's too crowded."

"I didn't really say everything I said"

growing older

2009-01-06T11:57:00.000-08:00

This past saturday I turned 18!!! I welcomed in the day at 12:01 am with some family and close friends! I woke up later that day, around 10:00, to find the house decorated with streamers, balloons and notes! Dad took me out to lunch and I spent the afternoon relaxing and watching football! That evening friends came over to celebrate!

It's hard to believe that I'm a "adult". I can buy cigarettes, vote, starting dating :) , no more curfew [not that I had one before], and be tried as an adult in court, just to name a few. It felt weird getting stuff like a laundry basket, closet storage containter, extension cords and other stuff as presents for my dorm room this fall! But I enjoyed it! I'm glad to be an adult, and I'm enjoying more responsibility and privledges...so far!

Aaron & Michelle: Married

2008-12-28T11:32:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Aaron and Michelle tied the knot! I'm so excited for both of them, and had a blast photographing their day! Have fun in Mexico!

So...

2008-12-15T11:47:00.000-08:00

Why do I live in Minnesota?

Fyi... click to enlarge picture and see minnesota ;)

Oh Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

2008-12-01T13:41:00.001-08:00

Yesterday, Dad and the three girls headed out to find a christmas tree. We're not the adventurous family that goes out and chops one down, but thats probably good since we have a hard enough time picking one out a select few. We were at the "tree lot" for who knows how long [it felt like an eternity since it was so cold]. But after a million questions, "What do you think about this one? Is it to round? Is it tall enough? Is it to short? How much does it cost? ..." We finally found the perfect one!

Ellen was freezing, I mean look at her ear.

Nonetheless, it didn't keep her from being a clown in front of the camera!

Ever since I was little I can remember going and getting the tree. But the best part was the free little candy canes afterwards.

Before

After

Contemplations

2008-11-26T20:04:00.001-08:00

I think it's easy on holiday's like Thanksgiving, to either get caught up with the mountains of food, or by making a battle plan on how to attack the next morning of shopping. But in the end that's not the point, it's to be thankful. Sometimes I think its funny that we have a day set aside to be thankful, since we should be thankful everyday. It's almost an excuse to take a day off of work and school or something.

Nonetheless, I'll be exceptionally thankful tomorrow... it will be almost a year since we discovered Dad had cancer, and now he's been cancer free for six months. But there's so much more! Ellen started driving this year and nobody died, speaking of death my car hasn't died yet either. We've had food on our table everyday of the year, I've survived half a year of school classes, and I have amazing friends and family who love and support me at my best and worst moments. But even if I didn't have any of those things I would still be thankful because I have my Savior who is with me all the time, listening to my every need and being patient when I'm not.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Doughboy

2008-11-25T15:48:00.000-08:00

Ellen found this a few weeks ago and shared it with our family. I hope you enjoy it as much as we have!

Please join me in remembering a great icon. Veteran Pillsbury spokesperson, The Pillsbury Doughboy, died yesterday of a severe yeast infection and complications from repeated pokes to the belly. He was 71. Doughboy was buried in a slightly greased coffin. Dozens of celebrities turned out, including Mrs. Butterworth, the California Raisins, Hungry Jack, Betty Crocker, the Hostess Twinkies, Captain Crunch and many others.

The graveside was piled high with flours as long-time friend, Aunt Jemima, delivered the eulogy, describing Doughboy as a man who "never knew how much he was kneaded."

Doughboy rose quickly in show business, but his later life was filled with many turnovers. He was not considered a very smart cookie, wasting much of his dough on half-baked schemes. Despite being a little flaky at times, even as a crusty old man, he was still considered a roll model for millions.

Toward the end it was thought he'd raise once again, but he was no tart.

Doughboy is survived by his second wife, Play Dough. They have two children and one in the oven. The funeral was held at 3:50 for about 20 minutes.

I feel like rambling...

2008-11-09T13:33:00.001-08:00

So Friday night Joel and Anna both had slumber parties [different parties]. Not gonna lie, it was kinda weird with just Ellen, Mom, Dad, and I at home. We had some friends over, and watched the movie: What About Bob ... very funny! Although I enjoyed the extra quiet and peace around the house, its good to have them home again.

On Saturday, Dad had a radio interview, and Ellen and I tagged along for the fun of it! Later that afternoon I babysat, from 4:15 until 6:45, and I got $25 bucks, AND it was only one kid. Can't really complain about that... huh?! My friend Rachael, was in a high school play called, Guys and Dolls. That started at 7:30 and it was a ton of fun! It was preformed very well, and I was able to catch up with a lot of friends I haven't seen in a long time!

This morning Ellen and I taught sunday school class for 2 year olds! So much fun! It's a big highlight of my Sunday mornings. The kids are always so excited to learn about Jesus, and some of the funniest things of my week happen on these mornings. We had five extra minutes at the end of class today, and had a "dance party" with bubbles :) I guess you probably wouldn't call us a "normal" class!

Right now, I'm in the basement watching football [GO VIKING'S], and I'll probably take a nap before youth group tonight! Sunday's are my favorite day of the week!

Problems

2008-10-26T21:20:00.000-07:00

So we have two computers in the house. Our basement one has all 2,000+ pictures [some of which aren't backed up], all our homework assignments, etc... Earlier this morning it broke down, and we can't get it to work! Hopefully we'll get most of our stuff back.

Nonetheless its a good reminder to not trust in the things of this world because they will fail. I'm sooo glad that I believe in a God I can fully rely on all the time, he's trustworthy, and has my best interest in mind!

leaving

2008-10-17T13:17:00.000-07:00

this weekend i'll be gone at a youth retreat. i'll be back sunday and i promise a "real" update to come sometime next week! have a great weekend everyone!

here are some pictures ellen and i took, during a photoshoot yesterday. i love fall!!!

life

2008-10-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

Recently life has been a roller coaster, and I can barely hang on. I'm ready for my roller coaster ride to end, and life to proceed as normal.

the cause of craziness:
-SAT prep
-catching up on science
-applying for jobs
-planning sunday school
-getting chores and school done before a weekend away
-photography

i'll try to get some football pictures of joel up sometime before i leave this weekend.

Beauty Distortion...

2008-10-01T21:31:00.000-07:00

... and people wonder why girls look in the mirror and think they're not good enough. They are looking at unrealist and "fake" beauty, that not even models can fully match up to.

[If theres problems with the video go to the URL instead, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XF66Ku4a9U .]

Backyard Theater

2008-09-28T19:35:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we gathered at a friends house for the second "drive in" movie theater of the summer. weather couldn't have been better, it really was the perfect night. We had burgers, and lots of junk food. There was a raffle and we watched a John Wayne movie [I can't remember the name]. Some of you might be wondering how on earth we set it up, well we used a projecter from my Dad's work, and hung up a kingsize sheet. The host, also works as a DJ and had all the sound equitment necessary! Here's some shots from the night [espceially the details, they make everything so memorable].

Back in the day....

2008-09-25T10:57:00.000-07:00

... we all looked a little different.

striving to live a life of truth

2008-09-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

Look at that question. Soak it in. Meditate. Ponder. Try to comprehend it.

Do we as christians really believe what we believe is really real??? Honestly do we?

Sometimes I think I do, but do I really truely live out what I say I believe in my day to day life? I wish I could say yes but I can't and I honestly believe that very few Christians can honestly answer yes to that question. Simply because, if we did believe that what the Bible says is really real, we wouldn't be the kinds of Christians we are. Our lives would be radically different and we'd be making a concious day to day choice to change things and people around us. Thoughts?

WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO?????

2008-09-21T17:37:00.000-07:00

Basically, people want or have [I'm not sure which] to give Civil Rights to APES in the UK. No Joke! Check out the links below for the entire articles.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/5058986.stm
http://www.usatoday.com/news/offbeat/2008-07-15-chimp_N.htm

Living in a whirlwind

2008-09-17T19:22:00.001-07:00

So lately I've been posting a lot of photo updates, as great those are, they don't allow me to tell you whats been going on in my life. So that is the purpose of my post below; to tell you what I've been up to:

On Monday nights, my dad is leading a bible study called the truth project. We've only had one week so far, but I'm really excited about what will come from it. The material is radical, new, very biblical, and life changing. If you ever get the chance to be a part of a Truth Project bible study I would whole heartedly recommend it!

Tuesdays include 3 hrs of co-op classes. I have a speech and leadership class.... I hate it. Well, not the class, but speaking. Hopefully by the end of the year I'll be a better and more confident speaker! I also have a Writing class. My teacher is very organized, and her teaching style targets my learning style.

On Wednesdays I have another writing class, and in the afternoons I spend time at church preparing for youth group, and earning money for youth retreats.

Thursdays are pretty laid back. Sometimes I have random babysitting jobs at night. I usually am doing homework and other school subjects during the morning and afternoon.

Fridays are my favorite days of the week! I finish up school in the morning, and spending the afternoon doing whatever. At night Joel usually has a football game, either that or I'll have friends over.

Saturday's always seem to fill up for our family. Anna always has a soccer game, and Joel sometiems has a football game. Mom enjoys "entertaining". So we almost always have a family friend over for a "game night" on Saturdays.

Sunday mornings start early for me because I teach sunday school. Ellen and I are teaching the 2 year old sunday school class, what an adventure!!!! Last week was our first week and the word that described it best was, chaos! No one was sitting still, kids were crying because they missed their parents, there was playdough on the floor\peoples shoes, pretty much everywhere except the table! After returning home from church, I spend my afternoon taking naps [yes "naps" is supposed to be plural ;)] and watching football. I justify my laziness, because a day of rest is required by Jesus in the 10 Commandments [Exodus 20]. At night I'mbe leading a bible study for 9th-12th graders, focused on worldview, leadership, and apologetics.

So thats what I've been up to lately. Busy? Yes, but thats a good thing!

I'm excited for this coming weekend. On friday the family is MAYBE going to see McCain and Palin speak in Blaine [near our house] and on Saturday we are hosting a youth party!

A Day Out on the Field

2008-09-06T16:10:00.000-07:00

The sun was shining, and a small breeze kept the day from becoming humid. There couldn't have been a better way to start off Anna's first soccer game of the season! The girls played hard, and their efforts paid off, they won the game 6-1. I always look foward to these Saturday soccer games. Most of the other families on the team have been longtime friends of our family, and we all have a blast cheering on the girls or "The Mighty Mice" and simply joking around and chatting on the sidelines!

Aaron & Michelle - Engaged

2008-09-01T18:39:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had the oppurtunity to shoot Aaron & Michelle's engagement shoot. We had a great time wandering around Centenial Lakes, and got some great pictures to show for it. I'm so happy for you both, and can't wait for your wedding in December! Congrats!

planning planning planning

2008-08-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

Recently, and good friend of mine and our families became engaged! She is planning a wedding in December, and asked if our family, and some other close family friends would help to plan the big event. Of course we said "Yes". I couldn't be more thrilled and honored to be apart of their special day, but boy oh boy do we have alot to do! I'm looking at all the wedding planning lists online, and man there is a lot of prep! Especially if you're planning it only four months in advance. I'm shooting their engagement pictures next week, which I'm especially excited about since I love photography, and it will give me the oppurtunity to practice, enhance my portfolio, etc...! Anyways... I've always kidded my parents, especially Mom, about elopping instead of having a ceremony, and I think helping in the planning process is only solidifying my idea. Plus its cheaper, who can argue with that!?

Fredricks Kids - Anytime

2008-08-15T21:19:00.001-07:00

While in Michigan I was asked to take pictures of my cousins kids, and I was more than happy to oblige! And while the kids weren't thrilled about the whole picture taking ordeal, or smiling period, we were able to get a few fun candid ones.

Like I said above, the kids weren't thrilled about pictures, and if this isn't proof enough I don't know what is:

Anyways, the photoshoot was a ton of fun, and I hope that I'll be able to do many more in the near future!

In Full Swing

2008-07-07T22:27:00.000-07:00

It's already July! I can't believe it. The last two weeks have passed all too fast. We've been in Michigan at the cottage, and then at Grandma's for a few fun filled days, and after that we ventured onto Iowa for the Fourth of July [ Anna's Birthday], and to visit my grandparents. Now we are home, I'm able to sleep in my own bed, and just relax... its wonderful!

Hopefully all your summers are going as well as mine is, I'm so blessed!

neighborhood fun

2008-06-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

This morning Mom hosted a party for all the Mom's in the neighborhood and their kids! They came around 10:30 and for the next three hours, we enjoyed good fellowship, a scavenger hunt, yummy food, and outdoor games! [I'm not sure why all the pictures have in awkward places, I tried fixing it, but nothing happened :\]

[she didn't end up getting hit by the waterballon, but it was a close call!]

wiping off the cobwebs

2008-06-06T21:57:00.000-07:00

For all of you wondering... no i haven't completly forgotten about this blog! Life has been fabulous, but incredibly busy! Our yearly adventures to Michigan and the cottage is nearing, and the entire family is eagerly awaiting its arrival! Schools done. The recent weekends have filled with graduation parties, and BBQ's in the backyard with our new patio furniture. On Sunday Ellen and I leave for Worldview Camp at Norwestern College, for the week. Many of our weekday nights, are spend at a ballpark watching Joel play baseball. And on Tuesday we celebrated Dad's 49th birthday! I'm also spending my spare time in my room reading a romance and mystery novel by Dee Henderson called, The Rescuer.

I'll try to get on here once more before camp!

It's her sweet sixteen...

2008-05-20T07:46:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ELLEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

M&M's, Softball, and Mothers Day

2008-05-13T20:08:00.000-07:00

The last few days have been busy, but enjoyable! Friday we had some friends over for dinner, and then I enjoyed a relaxing evening with Mom and Dad, since everyone else was gone [baseball practice\babysitting]. We ended up cleaning up the garage for part of the time, but it was still fun.

Saturday I slept in, and then headed off to meet some friends for a bridal shower. It was great, seeing old friends, laughing, and eating all kinds of goodies! A day really can't go wrong when you get to eat puppy chow, carmel brownies, cheesecake, and peanut butter M&M's all in the same afternoon! Later that night we had some family friends over, and Mom made a delicious Mexican meal, similar to Chipotle! She even made homeade tortillas!

On Sunday it was sunny instead of raining and ended up being a beautiful day [minus the wind] to celebrate Mothers Day. I taught my last 2&3 year old sunday school class of the year, and it was a ton of fun! I love all the kids in my class, and hope to have most of them again next year. After church, we took mom on a picnic, and then explored the trails at a local park. The rest of the afternoon was relaxed, and I finished the day with a movie, and a bowl of Twix icecream!

Monday morning and today, we had our homeschool testing, but tomorrow will be our last day! Then I'm done with school, except for the math and other things I have to keep caught up on during the summer. I've also been doing alot of work in the backyard. Anna and Mom are both working on the garden, and I'm excited to see what they'll come up with. I just got back from a softball game tonight, and am finally starting to feel my toes again! It was freezing! Everyone was in blankets and winter coats. I guess thats Minnesota weather for you, huh?!

Eighteen Things

2008-04-29T21:02:00.000-07:00

You know how everyone has those list of the things they want to accomplish before they die?! Well here's mine [no specific order]:

-Go to the Olympics
-Swim with Dolphins
-See a shooting star
-Sit in on a TV show taping
-Get married on an Island
-Go on a mission trip to a foreign country
-Meet a "real" President [other than my Dad]
-Have Kids
-Travel to Europe
-Learn how to Swing Dance [or any kind of dance really]
-Be apart of a Jury
-Stand under a waterfall
-Experience weightlessness
-Drive across America from coast to coast
-Sleep under the stars
-Learn to Juggle
-Drive a convertible with the top down and music blaring
-Stand in Arizona, New Mexico, Utah, and Colorado at the same time

So thats my list, its not complete, and I copied a few from a website I found while searching Google, but thats the rough draft! Hmm... I wonder how many I can accomplish?!

..dreaming of summer..

2008-04-28T10:36:00.000-07:00

Well all the snow and rain, has had me thinking about summer! I've been dreaming of sunshine, and BBQ's in the backyard, going to the beach, and falling asleep in the hamock in the backyard, going on vacations, and spending time with the cousins during our week at the cottage.

Here are some snapshots from last years summer fun:

Spring and Snow

2008-03-31T13:58:00.000-07:00

So it "officially" became Spring last week, but when I walk outside and see snow I'm not so sure! This morning in Minnesota there was a "Heavy Snow Warning". I think all this snow and cold weather is becoming quite rediculous!

FYI, If its July and we're still getting blizzards I'm moving to Hawaii.

Here's a few shots of snow [it might not seem like that much, but its only the afternoon and its still falling rapidly].

Can't Put It Down

2008-03-25T13:31:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been reading "The Truth Seeker" by Dee Henderson. I'm not typically one to be seen reading a book, contrary to everyone else in the family. But lately, its been a different story. Ellen started reading these books a few months ago, and LOVED them. So I thought I might as well give them a try. Nothing like a little clean romance and mystery to brighten this dreary weather we've been having the last few days, right? Well, I'm almost halfway done with this book, and if you're looking for a good Christian novel to read, I highly reccomend the O'Malley" Series! If you're a boy and not into all the "kissy" stuff maybe you should just stick to the Hardy Boys ;)

Digging It

2008-03-17T20:52:00.000-07:00

You know that feeling when you get a brand new "toy" and just can't put it down! Well, all of a sudden I have a new love for this blog! So prepare to be overloaded with entiries! I'll try to control myself :/

You know how people have those crazy weeks when "stuff" isn't going their way, and the days seem to drag on and on and it doesn't seem like the weeks gonna ever end. Well last week was one of those weeks for me! Here's last week in a nutshell:

-My car got in an accident a few weeks ago, and my mom took it to the body shop and it's way to much money to fix. But for now the duct tape on the the front it holding it together! We'll see how long that lasts!

-The tip of a metal pen in my car touched something wrong, and my radio\clock\random heating& air controls short-circuited and now none of that stuff works...! Well... thats not completely true, when it short-circuited the air conditioning was on so.... lets just say that now its permanately on and I can't turn it off. So i'm wasting a whole bunch of gas and I can't do anything about it! Fortunatly, I can still plug in my MP3 player and listen to the radio through that.

-Mom and Dad had to go down to Mayo Clinic on tuesday for chemo, and mom forgot to sign my papers for school before they left! So my papers are all past due by a week! Fortunately she can write a note and then i won't get points emliminated!

-I was constantly surrounded by sick people random days of the week, but God has spared my and the rest of the family from getting the flu, colds, etc...

-This past chemo round was really hard for Dad, and hes been exhausted and not feeling well at all! But fortunatly, he only has one more round to go and then hes done!

Lesson Learned....
The one thing that stuck out to me the whole week was this: Everytime I'd start to feel stressed, and want to complain. Each positive aspect of the situation would hit me in the middle of the face, and I'd realize just how blessed I really am! I'm hoping for a much better week this week, and I know it will be!

Snow, Sleep 'n' Sympathy

2007-12-01T09:57:00.000-08:00

For the first time today I was able to sleep until 12 noon. This is definately a first since the house is usually a flurry of activity, along with even the slightest sounds reaching my not so eager ears :/ But today was different, and I think I could easily get used to sleeping in until 12 noon every saturday! Have any of you noticed yet!??! IT'S SNOWING!!!!!! I couldn't have been more thrilled to see little white flakes speadily falling down into my window well! This definately brings my Christmas excitement level up to at least an 8!

On another not, most of you have probably already heard but last Friday my Dad went to the doctor and the doctors discovered a large lump in his stomache. He went down to Mayo Clinic on Monday morning and went through numerous tests. It was determined that the lump was cancer but our family is feeling very thankful and blessed since the cancer is very treatable! The treatment will start on the 12th and even though this date seems far off my Dad is taking full advantage of the oppurtunity to get his strength up and start eating healthier! The calls since last Friday have poured through our phone lines with at least two an hour [this has slowed down within the last few days], and I have witnessed many e-mails of support from people I don't even know! I have personally been overwhelmed by all the support our family has recieved, and I hope that a huge "THANK-YOU" will suffice to thank all of you who have prayed, sent letters, called our house with encouragement, etc...! Feel free to ask if you have any questions!

Well that's it for a much needed blogspot update, and now I'm off to go make snow angles in the backyard and get a steaming mug of hot chocolate! Feel free to leave a little love in the comment box and be sure to come back soon!

I Finally Got One

2007-08-27T19:46:00.000-07:00

I finally decided to get another blog. I had an Xanga but no one goes on there anymore so i decided to switch! I probably won't be on here to much but i'll check in every once and awhile to give everyone an update on life!