The Johnson's

Handsome Little Man

2010-02-19T15:02:00.001-08:00

I love my boys!

2010-02-16T10:24:00.000-08:00

My wonderful boys spoiled me for Valentine's Day.

I came home to two beautiful bouquets of flowers. Gorgeous rainbow roses from my amazing hubby and a beautiful arrangement of pink flowers called hyacinthus orientalis from the cutest little boy in the world, Brayden.

I thought they were too pretty not to share!

5 Years and counting....

2010-02-01T16:56:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 3rd will be the 5 year anniversary of the day that I was diagnosed with cancer.

On that day I felt:

Frightened

Angry

Defeated

Exhausted

Shocked

Sorrowful

Depressed

Fearful

and

MORTAL

Now, 5 years later I feel:

Hopeful

Full of Love

Fortunate

Powerful

Relief

Lucky

and

STRONG

Even though there are still days where I feel the feelings at the top, I realize that they are few and far between. The feelings that are on the bottom are what I feel everyday of my life.

I have a new found respect for life and for who ultimately gave it to us, our Heavenly Father.

I also have much love and devotion to the person who gave his life for us.

Our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Without them I would not be here.

I am eternally grateful to all of my family and friend for all that they have done for me in the hardest 5 years of my life.

I love you ALL with all of my heart.

Brayden + Ice Skating = Major bruises!!!

2010-01-30T11:42:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we took Brayden ice skating for the first time.

It was truly the funniest thing that we had ever witnessed.

In the hour and a half that we were there, we probably only went around the rink 3 times.

Brayden fell about every 3 feet, but he continued to get back up and keep trying. I think he knew that he would get hot chocolate as his reward! It was a blast none the less!!!

We may have to find a new winter Olympic sport to start training for.

Let's just say that we don't have a Scott Hamilton or Apollo Anton Ohno on our hands.

Mike showing off his MAD ice skating skills!!!

Radiation

2010-01-06T09:24:00.000-08:00

About three weeks ago I went down to San Francisco to recieve my radiation treatment. My wonderful father accompanied me for the week. He was kind enough to take me to radiation everyday and then go play around the city. It was fun to just hang out with my dad for a week, just me and him. It had been a long time since we had done that. During our week there we were able to go to the King Tut exhibit at De Young, stroll Fisherman's Wharf (where we made our ritual trip to Hooter's - for the wings, of course), shopping and just walking around town. I even got him to watch Twilight and then go see New Moon at the theaters! We also had a blast watching one of our favorite shows, The Biggest Looser, while eating popcorn, candy and chips.

As for the radiation part, everything went as planned. I went in everyday for a session that lasted only about an hour and fifteen minutes. Much easier then my last treatment, which was two and a half hours of treatment a day! My dad took some pictures of the Cyberknife machine and the wonderful techs that took care of me. The machine actually looks like something that came out of the Star Wars movies. Cyberknife is amazing. The beam of radiation is very small and very precise. That's why they had to make me the mask to hold me in place. I'm not allowed to move at all. It's really not that bad. On the ceiling are cool blinking stars and they played any CD that I wanted to listen to. So, everyday I got to lay down for over and hour and just listen to John Mayer and Ingrid Michaelson. It was sort of relaxing in a way, but I am glad it's over with!

I just loved the name of this boat. It was a good reminder for me.

My dad outside of Bubba Gump Shrimp.

Being bolted in by my favorite techs!

Let it SNOW!

2009-12-14T15:08:00.000-08:00

Saturday morning we woke up to a beautiful blanket of white, powdery snow! After finishing our traditional Saturday morning breakfast at Ihop, we put on our gloves and hats and played in the snow. Our amazing next door neighbors came out to play with us and we all made a huge snowman. Watching Brayden and Clarence wrestle in the freezing snow made my heart melt. They play so well together and it makes me wish every day that Brayden had a little brother. Until that day comes, Brayden has found a great friend in little Clarence. We are so grateful to have such wonderful neighbors!!!

Cancer Schmancer!!!

2009-12-04T11:10:00.000-08:00

Well, I really don't know where to begin. I think that this is one of the hardest posts that I have ever had to make. In my short 26 years here on this earth, I have come to the realization that life never really goes how we would like it to. You can do all the planning and preparation for the life that you want to one day achieve, but in the end our plans and His plans are completely different.

In the beginning, my plans consisted of graduating from high school, going to college to become a dental hygienist and then one day go on a mission for my church. I thought that after I did all of those things that I would come home, get married, have children and live my life the way I wanted to. Well, as you all know, that didn't exactly happen. And I'm glad that they didn't. I met my amazing husband my freshman year of college and we married shortly after. Not too long after that we were blessed with an amazing son (a little sooner then we had originally planned). I'm truly grateful that my plans didn't take place and that Heavenly Father's did. I know that he know's what's best for me, even though I might not necessarily like it. I love my family so much and if things had gone any different, I wouldn't have them.

Of course there are many moments in life where we question the guy up above and ask why we have to go through the trials that we do. But I know, without a doubt, that there is purpose behind it all. Without trials how would we grow? How would we learn?

My biggest trial came about 5 years ago. I was 21, a fairly new wife and a brand new mother and I was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma. The very first question that popped into my head was, "Why me? Why my family?" I just couldn't wrap my head around the situation. When you think about cancer, you automatically associate it with death. And I did. I cried myself to sleep many nights wondering if I was going to leave my beautiful baby boy without a mother, my husband without a wife and my parents without a daughter.

For the next 2 1/2 years I went through many surgeries, chemo and radiation. It was the hardest time of my life. I had to give up a lot of things in order to get myself well. The hardest one was the care of my 2 year old little boy. I have such a wonderful family, that they all got together and helped take care of him for me. But to this day it is still hard for me to think about. I didn't get to do all of the things a new mother gets to do with her toddler. I had to sit back and watch it all happen. But I know it's what I had to do in order to get myself healthy again. I had to make sacrifices. Everyone in my family had to make sacrifices.

Now it's almost five years later. I haven't had treatment for over 2 years and I have been doing well. The cancer looked as though it wasn't doing anything, almost like it was dormant. Things were looking great. Well, I went in for scans this last October and found out that my cancer has returned. I have a spot in my spine where all of my hardware is. It's small, but it's there.

I've now got myself back into fighting mode. Meagan vs. Cancer Part II: The Battle Continues!!! I start Cyber Knife radiation on Monday. I just want to get in there and get it taken care of. I've decided that I'm going to be better about chronicling my life, my treatments, feelings and whatever else it is that I plan on doing. So, if you ever wonder what's going on with the Johnson's or me and my treatment, just check the blog. :-)

I have to say that I've learned many things along this insane path that I've taken. I have met so many wonderful people along the way. As much as these trials are horrendous, they have definitely strengthened my relationships with the ones I love. It has made me realize the important things in life and to try to let go of the all the stuff that doesn't really matter. I'm eternally grateful for such a kind and loving husband who works so hard for our little family, for an amazing son who, every time I look into his eyes, makes me realize that there is a Heaven and a God above. I'm thankful for such wonderful parents who sacrifice all they have - time, talents, energy, love and money - to make their daughter not only healthy, but happy. I'm grateful for a little sister who always makes me laugh and who truly is and always will be my best friend. I'm so blessed to have such wonderful family and friends to take care of me and help me through these difficult times. Without all of you, I wouldn't be here today. I love you all.

So, the fight continues. I will beat this. I know I can.

All my love and thanks,

Meagan

Being poked and proded

Not too happy, due to them having to stick me 3 times in order to get my IV in.

Poking and prodding again!

Trying out the new mask for radiation.

CHEESE!!!

This is how I have to lay for radiation. It lasts for about 2 hours a day, for 5 days. My great friend, Amy, made me some awesome CD's to listen to so I don't get too bored!

CT scan

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2009-11-25T14:52:00.001-08:00

Eclipse!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-24T09:56:00.000-08:00

Only 7 more months! I will be counting down the days!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pumpkin Patch

2009-11-24T06:38:00.000-08:00

Halloween Overview

2009-11-23T09:38:00.000-08:00

Cute little Cowboys!

1st place prise for Best Costume

Yes, I did make Mike dress up as a bumble bee. What a trooper!

Matt, Jen, Jonah and Caleb

Buzz and Woody

Adorable little Caleb

CrAzY! cRaZy! CrAzY! Life has been nothing but CRAZY!!! I'm finally taking the time to sit down and post! I know we're only a few days away from Thanksgiving, but I felt it was important that I post some adorable pictures of my little Brayden from Halloween.

Because of all the "buzz" around Toy Story 3 coming out, we thought it would be great if Brayden dressed up as Woody. Let me tell you...he mad the cutest Woody out there! He even won Best Costume at his school's pumpkin festival. He was so excited! His trophy, which is a skeleton holding candy, is still on his nightstand.

Halloween this year started out with attending our ward's pumpkin festival. Seeing how Mike is our ward's new young men's president, he was in charge of creating the haunted house. I was bummed that I wasn't able to go through it. I was running the photo booth and wasn't able to step away long enough to go through it. I heard many wonderful things about it. The young men did a great job with keeping it spooky, just enough to keep children from crying!

Our next big event was Brayden's school's pumpkin festival. I'm an active participant in PTA and have offered to run the festival the last couple of years. Let me tell you - it's quite a task. And if any of you know me, you know that I am the biggest procrastinator. I think that sometimes I work better under stress. My husband loves me in SPITE of this quality!!! He was a trooper and helped me out with whatever I needed him for. My sister was my other saving grace. She helped me set up and decorate. She even stayed throughout the entire festival to serve food and help out in the kitchen. At the end of the night, we were all exhausted and grateful for it to be over.

Halloween night was fun for us also. We had been in Monterey for the weekend, but made it up in time to go trick or treating with little Jaxson. Brayden and Jaxson made the cutest cowboys ever. Halloween was great, but I'm grateful it's over!!!

SCANS!!!!!!!!

2009-10-28T09:35:00.000-07:00

My scans are tomorrow and I'm feeling a bit nervous. But, to make it all better, we are going to spend a couple days in Monterey and in Petaluma. I can't wait to see my favorite oncologist and all of my favorite nurses! So.....S.F., here I come. I kicking cancer's a** and takin' names!!!!!!!

2nd Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest

2009-10-24T21:24:00.000-07:00

We have now made it a tradition to have a pumpkin carving contest with my family. The rules are as follows:

1. NO, and I mean NO, tracing of stencils or copying of any kind.

2. Only allotted an hour and a half.

3. Pumpkin must be gutted and cleaned before arrival.

4. Creativity is a must!

A hillbilly and a vampire!

Brayden and Grandma Donna carving pumpkins. This is the first time in my G-Ma's life that she has ever carved a pumpkin herself!

Mike was automatically disqualified for the following reasons: 1. He used a stencil! 2. He went way over our time that was given. (Should have started earlier, Babe!!!)

The final pumpkins - 1. Meagan - Mike Wazowski 2. Jen - Skull 3. Brittney - Shish-ka"boo" 4. mom and Dad - Mr. Spider 5. G-Ma and G-Pa - Classic pumpkin 5. Peter - Basketball 6. Uncle Matt and Auntie Jen's "Winker", which was carved in under 10 minutes!!!

Judging of the pumpkins

My handsome boy with adorable Kenna

And the winner is...Meagan Johnson and Mike Wazowski!!!

Jaxson and Jonah

Our Judge for the night

Mike's cool Mummy pumpkin and my parent's Mr. Spider pumpkin

Cute little Jonah!

What a fun night we all had! Can't wait to do it again next year!!!

My Little "Edward"

2009-10-21T17:37:00.000-07:00

Last week we drove up into the gorgeous mountains and went to Apple Hill. I had my camera with me, like always, and decided to take some fun pictures of my handsome, little man. Because of my obsession with Twilight, my first thoughts went to.....EDWARD (of course)! So I set him up in the tree (like Edward is in the movie Twilight) and started snapping away. He definitely is going to crush some girls hearts when he gets older! He is and always will be my little "Monkey Man"!!!

Yeah Daddy!!!!!!!!

2009-10-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

Our wonderful husband and daddy received a new calling a couple of weeks ago and we couldn't be anymore proud. Mike was called to be the Young Men's President of our ward. We know he's going to be a fantastic leader and a great friend to all of those young men.

As a mother of a young, impressionable 6 year old, I couldn't be more stoked! I can't wait for Brayden to be around all of these boys who are working towards getting their Eagle Scout, receiving their Duty to God award and most importantly, preparing to serve a mission. I think it's just what we need for not only ourselves, but for our little boy who is an only child.

Yeah Daddy!!!!! We know you'll be fantastic! You always are!

Love,

Brayden and Mommy

(P.S. - I had to put up all of the silly pictures. You know they're my favorite!)

Valley of the Temples

2009-09-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

Here we are at the Valley of the Temples. It is a Buddhist temple on the North Shore of Oahu and is one of our favorite places to visit on the island. It is very peaceful and serene and has the most gorgeous views of the mountains. It is always a fantastic place to see.

Brayden ringing the bell.

"Shaka"

Buddha

Brayden felt the need to look extremely close to Koi fish in the pond and fell in head-first by doing so. Even his poor, little camera got soaked. As you can tell, he wasn't very happy.

The "Autograph" Tree

Still not happy because he's still wet!

Turtle Bay

2009-09-21T12:18:00.000-07:00

On the north shore of Oahu, there is a beach called Turtle Bay. On this beach are about 10 large turtles that live in the shallow waters. Last year when we were there, the turtles were on the beach sunbathing and we weren't allowed to touch them. When we arrived at the bay this year, all of the turtles were in the water and we were allowed in with them. Brayden was so excited to get in with them that he got in with all of his clothes on. Luckily, they dried quickly afterwards. Brayden was totally enamored by all of the turtles and that he was actually allowed to touch their shells. We all had an amazing experience with these magnificent creatures.

Dole Plantation

2009-09-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite things to do on Oahu is visiting Dole Plantation. They have the largest maze in the world shaped like a pineapple. Last year we didn't finish the maze due to children and heat exhaustion, but this year we were able to do it. Mike was determined to finish. We got through the maze in 1 hour and 1 minute. The record is 7 minutes - crazy, huh?!?! I'm glad that we did it because it made my adorable hubby very happy.

Brayden's favorite part of our visit to Dole was the Pineapple Express. We hopped on the train and toured the plantation to see how the pineapples were planted and harvested. Here are some pictures from our fun, little day -

YEA!!! We finished!

Mike and Brayden planning out route through the maze.

Which way to go?

I loved seeing all the different fruit planted throughout the plantation.

Beautiful Oahu.

Hawaii

2009-09-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

This past week we were able to go to HAWAII for a much needed family vacation. We spent the week bathing in the sun, swimming with the fishes and touring the island to see everything it had to offer. It was a week filled with fun and excitement, but also paired with much exhaustion. We did so much, so fast, that it's actually hard to believe that we did it all in one week. I thank my dear, sweet hubby for working as hard as he does so that we could go on this fabulous vacation. I am grateful that Brayden gets to have these opportunities while he is young so that he learn about different places and about cultures that are so unlike our own.

There will be many posts with many photos. So, I hope you all bare with me because I am stoked to record and share all of these experiences with you. Hope you enjoy.

Our first day was mostly spent traveling. We left Reno at about 5 am Thursday morning so that we could be to our flight in Sacramento by 9 am. Instead of going to bed early the night before, I decided to stay up. For some odd reason I couldn't sleep, so I stayed up getting all of the loose ends tied up. Let me tell you that I was exhausted!!! Anyway, we arrived in Honolulu around 11 am and went straight to the Ko Olina (the resort that we stayed at). We spent the day grocery shopping and swimming and ended the day with a gorgeous sunset as we relaxed on the beach. That was the end of day one. More pictures to follow!

ALOHA!!!

2009-09-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

In less than 72 hours, we will be on our way to the gorgeous island of Oahu. Swimming, snorkeling, shopping and sun bathing...can life get any better than that? Hope everyone has a great time at school and work, he he he. Peace, love and sun screen!

Oh, so tired!

2009-08-26T19:56:00.000-07:00

Here's our not-so-little Nigel taking up our entire bed. He is one funny pup. Also, check out Mike's cool UPS tan in the background.

Weddings, Weddings and more Weddings!!!

2009-08-18T09:39:00.000-07:00

Mike's sisters, Katie and Kylie, both got married these past few weeks. They were beautiful brides and both had very different and unique weddings. It took a lot of planning and effort to pull them off and we all worked together and did it. Did I mention that they got married two weeks apart?!?! But somehow we still did it! Here are some photos of their big days...

Our little family at the Temple

Katie and Travis - They were married July 24th at the Reno Temple

That entire day they did not take their eyes off one another

Gorgeous!

The Beautiful Bride

Steve and Kylie were married August 8th at the Reno Temple

The Wedding Party

Us Beautiful Bridesmaids - We had fantastic RED heels that were to die for!

The Handsome Groomsmen

Our little family again!

Congratulations to Travis and Katie and also Steve and Kylie. Welcome to our cRaZy family boys. Enjoy every minute of your eternal marriage! Love you guys!

Sunday Nights at the In-Laws

2009-07-29T13:17:00.000-07:00

Because of the craziness of planning two weddings, Mike's mother enlisted the help of their cousin Natalie. She stayed at the Johnson's home for over a week, helping with planning, decorations and making all three of the bridesmaid dresses. Amidst all of the wedding hoopla, we were all able to set aside some good ol' family time by learning the art of Pole Dancing. Natalie is a pole exercising instructor (and yes, she is a member) and was kind enough to not only bring her pole, but let everyone have a try.

Here Mike is being taught by our pro, Natalie.

The correct way to slide down the pole...

and the not so correct way.

Here is how Mike ended up. He does get a gold star for a valiant effort!

Matt working on his Flagpole move. Not so bad, right?!?!

Travis doing his own moves. Don't you just love the black socks?

Even Dad got on and gave it a try.

Don't tell anyone, but I think he actually enjoyed it!

Steve actually held on the longest. Good job, Kid!

We even let Brayden try to do it. He may need some practice though.

Thanks goes to Natalie for such a fun Sunday evening. I do have to say it was kind of odd to see a stripper pole in my In-Law's living room. It was quite fun and crazy none the less!

Our Little Nigel

2009-07-27T10:13:00.001-07:00

We have a new little addition to our family and his name is Nigel. He is only 8 weeks old and is an English Bull Dog and Pit mix. He is very mellow and very good with Brayden. He evenhas Mike wrapped around his little paw. He is the perfect pup for our little family!

Take Me Out to the Ball Game!

2009-07-06T10:12:00.001-07:00

My New Love

2009-07-02T19:41:00.000-07:00

Today I got myself a little something. A gift from me, to me. A little self-indulgence, as you will. Today I bought myself a beautiful camera.

I love taking pictures. I carry my camera with me wherever I go, so I thought that it was only fitting to get one that I would love with all of my heart and soul. One that I could pour myself into and be able to capture every waking moment, especially of Brayden. He is my muse.

All I want in the world is to be a photographer. To hopefully one day start my own business and yet still be able to stay home with my son. I figure I only get to live once, and I have come to close to the end to not take any chances. That is what life is about. I thank my husband for working so hard for our little family. He encourages me to do what I want to do. He is my inspiration and I love him whole-heartedly.

Thank you Mike for allowing me to start this new adventure.

Learning to Ride

2009-06-30T20:49:00.000-07:00

This week Brayden finally learned how to ride his bike. I know, I know. I am a terrible mom for waiting this long to teach him, but at least he caught on quick. My dad took him out to a parking lot by our home (because idiot people like to fly down our street) and taught him how to ride in about 30 minutes. Now Brayden rides like a pro!

Free Summer Fun

2009-06-29T17:02:00.000-07:00

Last Friday we met up with Matt, Jen, Jonah and baby Caleb to play in the water fountain at the movie theatre. The boys had a great time running through the water and hitting around the Cars beach ball. Brayden loves playing with his little cousin Jonah. They get along so well. The best part of our fun outing was that it was free! You can't beat that!

26th Birthday

2009-06-28T19:01:00.000-07:00

So Monday was my 26th birthday. I really wasn't all that excited because now I am just that much closer to being...gulp...30!!! The day was pretty fun though. I was able to go out to lunch with a good friend, go shopping, get my fingernails and toes done, have dinner and cake made for me, and the best part of all - presents!!! I received a lot of great things, but the best was the beautiful Eternity pearl and diamond necklace from mu adorable hubby. There is a long story behind the necklace, but it was the greatest and most beautiful gift. My hubby sure does know how to spoil me!

Me and my Papa

The "Girls"

Me and my Best Bud!

This picture explains how I really felt about my birthday!

Fish Follies

2009-06-13T10:13:00.000-07:00

What the heck is up with our fish? We got these two fish in February for Brayden and they are the two weirdest creatures ever. Their names are Fu Man Choo (if you look at the orange one, it looks like he has a moustach) and Johnny Cash. After every feeding, we find that they like to float upside down. For the longest time we thought that they were dying and we came very close to flushing them down the toilet. We did some research on the internet and found out that we were giving them too much food and that they were just like us humans, trying to relax after eating. Good thing I didn't flush them.

My Last Day at SNCA

2009-06-13T09:55:00.000-07:00

For the last five months I have worked for Sierra Nevada Cardiology and Associates. After 6 years of being home with Brayden and four of those years being sick with cancer, I thought it would be a good idea to test the water and work for a little bit. I jumped right in and worked 5 days a week from 8am to 5pm. The first couple of weeks I thought I was going to die. My entire body hurt and I found that I was constantly exhausted. But as time went on, my body got stronger and I discovered that I could do it. I meet some amazing people in that office and was pretty sad to go. They had a big pizza party for me on my last day and also gave me a bouquet of the most beautiful flowers. I know that I will miss all of the girls at SNCA, especially my mother, who works downstairs in their cath lab. But I am excited to spend the summer at home with my little boy. I have the rest of my life to work, but Brayden will only be a little boy once.

Jodi - who was like my work mother

Cheryl and her sad, little face

Medical Records Department

Kerri, me, Nicole and Jeannine

This is Nicole - my partner in crime

Tee-Ball

2009-06-08T21:28:00.000-07:00

Our first season of playing tee-ball was a fantastic one to say the least. We were able to survive the season with only one injury and the desire to come back next year and play again.

Brayden's skills improved immensely. He had a great coach and by the end of the season every one of the kids were hitting off him and not the tee. He also had them sing Take Me Out to the Ball Game after every game and practice, which was my favorite.

We did have our off moments though. On team picture night, right before pictures (of course!), Brayden got hit in hit face with an aluminum bat. The bat hit him in the mouth and caused his teeth to puncture his lip. We had blood everywhere! It was all over his white pants, shirt, hands and face. Lets just say that those pictures are classic! The poor kid has a fat lip, blood all over his clothes and a dazed look on his face. That picture will forever be proudly displayed in our home.

Some of my favorite times watching Brayden was when he would get bored and pick the grass. He would make giant piles out of it and occasionally throw it at the other kids. We would also catch him drawing in the dirt. Classic Brayden!

It was so exciting to our little Bray-Bug play the sport that Mike and I love so much. I hope that he grows up with a love of the game and the desire to continue to play - because it makes for some great entertainment!

Kindergarten Graduation

2009-06-08T20:45:00.000-07:00

Our little boy is all grown up. He has graduated from kindergarten and is now on his way to being a big first grader. Brayden has a brilliant, little mind and an even more energetic soul. We love him so much and are extremely proud to be his parents. Congratulations to our little bug. We love you Brayden.

Baby Bryce and Baby Caleb

2009-05-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

We welcomed two little sweethearts into the Johnson Family in the last two months. Bryce Richard, whose parents are Brooke and Aaron, was born March 4th. He weighed 7 lbs 3 oz and was 19 inches long. Caleb Danny, whose parents are Matt and Jen, was born April 26th. He weighed 10 lbs 1 oz and was 22 inches long. Caleb was even two weeks early! Both boys are absolute sweethearts and we love them so much. We are proud to be called their Uncle Mikey and Auntie Mae Mae and are so blessed to have them in our ever-growing family.

Caleb Danny Johnson

10 lbs 1 oz

22 inches long

Bryce Richard Johnson (Making funny faces)

7 lbs 3 oz and 19 inches long

Galena Creek

2009-04-27T17:28:00.000-07:00

How to Poop at Work

2009-04-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

We've all been there but don't like to admit it... We've all kicked back in our cubicles and suddenly felt something brewing down below. As much as we try to convince ourselves otherwise, the WORK POOP is inevitable. For those who hate pooping at work, the following is a Survival Guide for taking a dump at work.

*CROP DUSTING* When farting, you walk really fast around the office so the smell is not in your area and everyone else gets a whiff, but doesn't know where it came from. Be careful when you do this. Don't stop until the full fart has been expelled. Walk an extra 30 feet to make sure the smell has left your pants.

*FLY BY* The act of scouting out a bathroom before pooping. Walk in and check for other poopers. If there are others in the bathroom, leave and come back again. Be careful not to become a FREQUENT FLYER. People my become suspicious if they catch you constantly going to the bathroom.

*ESCAPEE* A fart that slips out while taking a pee or forcing a poop in a stall. This is usually accompanied by a sudden wave of embarrassment. If you release an escapee, do not acknowledge it. Pretend it didn't happen. If you are a man and standing next to the farter in the urinal, pretend you didn't hear it. No one likes and ESCAPEE. It is uncomfortable for all involved. Making a joke or laughing makes both parties feel uneasy.

*JAILBREAK* When forcing poop. several farts slip out at machine gun pace. This is usually a side effect of diarrhea or a hangover. If this should happen, do not panic. Remain in the stall until everyone has left the bathroom to spare everyone the awkwardness of what just occurred.

*COURTESY FLUSH* The act of flushing the toilet the instant the poop hits the water. This reduces the amount of air time the poop has to stink up the bathroom. This can help you avoid being caught doing the WALK OF SHAME.

*WALK OF SHAME* Walking for the stall, to the sink, to the door after you have just stunk up the bathroom. This can be a very uncomfortable moment if someone walks in and busts you. As with farts, it is best to pretend that the smell does not exist. Can be avoided with the use of a COURTESY FLUSH.

*OUT OF THE CLOSET POOPER* A colleague who poops at work and is Doggone proud of it. You will often see and OUT OF THE CLOSET POOPER enter the bathroom with a newspaper or magazine under their arm. Always look around the office for the OUT OF THE CLOSET POOPER before entering the bathroom.

*THE POOPING FRIENDS NETWORK (P.F.N.)* A group of co-workers who band together to ensure emergency pooping goes off without incident... This group can help you to monitor the whereabouts of OUT OF THE CLOSET POOPER and identify SAFE HAVENS.

*SAFE HAVENS* A seldom used bathroom somewhere in the building where you can least expect visitors. Try floors that are predominantly of the opposite sex. This will reduce the odds of a pooper of your sex entering the bathroom.

*TURD BURGLAR* Someone who does not realize that you are in the stall and tries to force the door open. This is one of the most shocking and vulnerable moments that can occur when taking a poop at work. If this occurs, remain in the stall until the TURD BURGLAR leaves. This way you will avoid all uncomfortable eye contact.

*CAMO-COUGH* A phony cough that alerts all new entrants into the bathroom that you are in a stall. This can be used to cover-up a WATERMELON, or to alert potential TURD BURGLARS... Very effective when used in conjunction with a SHIRLEY TEMPLE.

*SHIRLEY TEMPLE* A subtle toe-tapping that is used to alert potential TURD BURGLARS that you are occupying a stall. This will remove all doubt that the stall is occupied. If you hear a SHIRLEY TEMPLE, leave the bathroom immediately so the pooper can poop in peace.

*WATERMELON* A poop that creates a loud splash when hitting the toilet water. This is also an embarrassing incident. If you feel a WATERMELON coming on, create a diversion. See CAMO-COUGH.

*HAVANA-OMELET* A case of diarrhea that creates a series of loud splashes in the toilet water. Often accompanied by an ESCAPEE... Try using CAMO-COUGH with a SHIRLEY TEMPLE.

*AUNT BETTY* A bathroom user who seems to linger around forever... Could spend extended lengths of time in front of the mirror or sitting on the pot. An AUNT BETTY makes it difficult to relax while on the crapper, as you should always wait to poop when the bathroom is empty... This benefits you as well as the other bathroom attendees!

SOME VARIETIES OF POOP YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF -

The King Poop = This kind is the kind that killed Elvis. It doesn't come until you're all sweaty, trembling and purple from straining so hard.

Bali Belly Poop = You poop so much you loose 5 pounds.

Cement Poop = You'd wish you'd gotten a spinal block before you poop.

Cork Poop (Also known as Floater Poop) = Even after the third flush, it's still floating there. How do I get rid of it? This poop usually happens at someone else's house.

The Bungee Poop = The kind of poop that just hangs off your rear before it falls into the water.

The Crippler = The kind of poop where you have to sit on the toilet so long that your legs go numb from the waist down.

The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang = The kind of poop that hits you when you're trapped in your car in a traffic jam.

The Party Pooper = The giant poop you take at a party. And when you flush the toilet, you watch in horror as the water starts to rise...

NOW EVERYONE TRY TO GO POOP IN PEACE...

The 70's are back!

2009-03-16T19:49:00.000-07:00

Last night as we were getting ready for bed, Brayden asked Mike a very serious question. It was a question that I often wonder myself. Mike had his shirt off and his bare chest for all to see. That was when Brayden asked this question, "Dad, is that an afro on your chest?"

The 70's are back and it's back in full force on Mike's chest. I think its about time we bust out the wax.

Brayden's 6th Birthday Party

2009-03-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

The "After" Photo

2009-02-28T23:49:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of Joey Gilbert after his fight against Jesse Brinkley. There truly are no words. Poor guy.

The Civil War

2009-02-28T08:49:00.000-08:00

Reno Bighorn's Basketball

2009-02-27T21:15:00.000-08:00

Brayden and Jaxson

Go Bighorn's

Oh, how I love The Soup!

2009-01-27T13:29:00.000-08:00

Quote of the Day

2009-01-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

When life gives you lemons, squeeze it in someone's eye and haul a*@!!!

Scan-tabulous!!!

2009-01-21T19:39:00.000-08:00

Last week, we headed to San Francisco for scans. The drive there was gorgeous! The weather was fantastic and there wasn't a cloud in the sky! We drove right to the hospital where I had a CT. Usually when I go I have a PET Scan first, which lasts about 2 hours, and then a CT. Because my last scans were so fantabulous, I didn't have to have the PET. I have come to the realization that CT's are actually pretty great. You walk in, get an IV and some contrast and then they shoot you through the scan in about three minutes. Let me tell you that I have come to love the CT scanner after having to do about every other scan known to man kind.

After the scan we walked right up to the UCSF Pediatric Cancer Clinic, where the amazing Dr. Rob Goldsby is located. (Here's a little side note: Dr. Goldsby's mom is a character actress. She has played in movies such as Joe Dirt, The Wedding Singer, Red Eye and was the little old granny who got it on with Stiffler in the closet in American Wedding. Crazy, huh?!?!) Anyway, we got the results about 30 minutes after the scan and discussed the results with Goldsby, aka "Homeboy". He told us that the spots in my neck have not done anything for almost 2 years. There was no change, no nothing!!! He proceeded to tell us that I didn't have to come back for one whole year. He looked my right in the eyes and told me that I was a walking miracle, that at a medical standpoint, I shouldn't even be here. He said he brings my case up to other doctors because he can't believe the progress that I have made. At that moment, my eyes welled up and my heart was full of gratitude. Gratitude for my Heavenly Father, the Savior, my family and especially Dr. Goldsby.

I know that Heavenly Father has been there with me since the beginning. I feel his love and presence with me everyt single day. He is the one to get me where I'm at today. I had heard people say the word "miracle" to me before, but it wasn't until I heard it from my Bishop and my doctor, that I actually believed it.

I am so grateful for all of my family and friends. This journey has been a long one, and at times I never thought that I would make it this far. But because of all of you and the faith that I have in my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, I am here today. I may not be totally cancer-free, but I have learned that you can live a long, healthy life with cancer. And that is what I intend to do.

What Cancer Cannot Do

2009-01-19T09:44:00.000-08:00

What Cancer Cannot Do

Cancer is Limited,

It cannot cripple love

It cannot shatter hope

It cannot corrode faith

It cannot destroy peace

It cannot kill friendship

It cannot suppress memories

It cannot silence courage

It cannot invade the soul

It cannot steal eternal life

It cannot conquer the spirit

It WILL NOT take me.

Silly Dude!

2009-01-14T16:51:00.000-08:00

Awhile ago, I was getting Brayden ready for school and after I put on his little green striped shirt and he told me this: "Dude Mom, I look like Steve from Blue's Clues." After looking him over, we went down stairs and turned on Nick for confirmation. Yep, he was right!

All I can say is "whoa"!!!

2009-01-09T15:15:00.000-08:00

Holy toledo!!! I just witnessed a crazy parent scream at Brayden's kindergarten teacher. He was screaming at the top of his lungs. I could not believe my ears. WOW, people are crazy!

Christmas

2009-01-08T09:54:00.000-08:00

Mitch singing Hotel California. Hilarious!!!

The "Guys" rocking out to "Livin' on a Prayer". We love Guitar Hero - World Tour!

All Brayden asked for was Geotracks, and he got a lot of them.

Dude, we got a Dell! Thanks Mom and Dad!

Brayden and Jaxson love Wall-E. Brayden got a Wall-E from his Auntie B and Jaxson got Evahhhhh!

You can't have Christmas without getting some Oakland A's stuff!

More geotracks!!!

Our little boy has been so good this year (well, there are always those ocassional incidents!).

Brayden told everyone that he looked like Hugh Hefner in his robe (of course that is what my dad told him to tell everyone)! Where are all the hot blondes???

Christmas is an amazing time of year where we get to celebrate the birth of our Savior. It is such a wonderful time for our family and we are eternally grateful to know that He lives and loves us! We hope that you all had a fabulous Christmas!

Christmas Eve

2009-01-03T19:45:00.000-08:00

In the Vaughn household, every Christmas Eve is spent at my grandparent's house. And every year we do the same things which consist of great food (ham, scallops, grandma's famous candy, and some veggies, of course), presents, and the always hilarious White Elephant Gift Exchange. Let me tell you that this year we had some flat-out hysterical gifts. Now, my family consists of very conservative Republicans, and here were some of the gifts:

My first picture is of my Gramps. Every Christmas day he and my Uncle Steve would wear Bah-hum-bug sweatshirts. So, it was decided that he needed a hat to go with it.

Barack Obama commemorative plate. Gramps continued to tell us that he was going to throw it out his front door like a Frisbee. Can you see the excitement on his face?!?!

The ever-so popular Barack Obama "Hope" poster, which came from the campus up at UNR (of course).

The best hat ever made. My dad said that he would take it to his bowling league and wear it whenever he got a "turkey"!

Jaxson and Brayden - although Jaxson looks like he is in pain.

Brayden and Santa.

Some grand kids and great grand kids.

Presents, presents and more presents!

Getting ready for Santa!

Sad day for Republicans!

2009-01-02T22:58:00.000-08:00

This year I decided that I would get more involved in politics and find out more about the candidates and where they stode on the issues. I have strong opinions when it comes to the sanctity of the family, how hard we work and where our money goes, health care, social security, goverment programs, etc. As you may well see, my vote went to the republican party with John McCain and Sarah Palin as the candidates. My mom, sister and I we privilaged to go and hear Sarah Palin speak on November 3rd (day before the election) about the issues and problems our country faces. I loved to listen to her and thought that she was wonderful. Here are some pictures of the event.

Sparks Hometown Christmas Parade

2009-01-02T22:43:00.000-08:00

This year we went to the Sparks Hometown Christmas Parade with our friends the Grover's. To put it nicely, it was terrible. We were so bored that we left about 20 minutes into it. The pictures of the kids were cute so I thought that I would at least post them.

Let's start by saying that the boys had more fun playing in the leaves and eating at Taco Bell than they did at the parade.
At least the tree was pretty.

Meg and Mallory

The boys watch the parade enthusiastically!

Winter Fun!

2009-01-02T22:33:00.000-08:00

Our little snow angel!

Brayden loves to write his name everywhere, especially in the snow.

Here's Mike throwing snow at Brayden. Brayden is tough. He took it like the little man that he is and laughed it off!

Hiking Rattle Snake Mountain

2009-01-02T12:21:00.000-08:00

Johnson Thanksgiving 2008

2009-01-02T11:38:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving we celebrated at the church. The Johnson family has gotten so large that easiest way for us to eat and all be together is at the church (although Matt hates it!). We had a fantastic dinner followed by even better desserts! I had made Pilgrim hats, bonnets and Indian feathers and everyone had to wear them. We had a fabulous time being with all of our family and friends!

Love of my life.

Kid table
Mom and Dad Johnson
The Thankful Tree

Our cute, little family!

Brayden dancing away with his cousins.

Mom and dad Johnson with kids and grandkids!

Here is what we normally look like!

The Johnson Clan

Great Grandpa and Grandma Martindale with their 10 great grandchildren and two on the way!

Halloween 2008

2009-01-02T10:41:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos of our Halloween. Brayden was the cutest Batman of all!!!

Sad year for Mike and I. We had to retire the Spartan Cheerleaders. Some idiots thought that we were from High School Musical. Have they never seen SNL?!?!
Jaxson, Brayden and Ahlana at our ward Trunk or Treat.

Our awesome pumpkins for the Vaughn Pumpkin Carving Contest of 2008!

We had to do it free-hand and here is my masterpiece! Let's go OAKLAND!!!

Mom and Dad carving out bats!

Cute little Jaxson saying "CHEESE"!

Mike carving out his 49er's pumpkin, which won first place!

Brittney carving out Jack - The Pumpkin King!

Jaxson coloring his pumpkin.

Brayden and Grandma Donna decorating pumpkins.

Denny is Back?!?!?!

2008-11-14T20:01:00.000-08:00

OK, so did anyone watch Grey's Anatomy last night? All I can say is "tear"!!!!! I was so shocked that Denny was there at the end, just sitting so perfectly on Izzie's bed. I think that my heart literally skipped a beat. Oh, and then she was able to touch him, her one and only true love!!! I had tears welling up in my eyes and tried to hide them from Mike with no avail. I know that Denny has to be a figment of Izzie's imagination, but tonight as I lay my head to rest, I will think of them together in a perfect world. If anyone has any insights on last nights episode, please let me know. I need some understanding!!!

Picture Day

2008-09-26T16:42:00.000-07:00

I just thought that I would put up a couple of pictures of Brayden. Today was picture day and I thought that he just looked too cute. Of course I am biased - I am his mother ;-)

Wall-E

2008-09-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

Hey Auntie Steph - My mommy found a Wall-E t-shirt for me (FINALLY!). I just thought that I would let you know. Thank you for looking around for one for me.
Love,
Brayden

My Dear Mom

2008-09-24T22:37:00.000-07:00

Today my mom had surgery to remove her abnormally over-grown thyroid. Everything went very smoothly. She had the worst anxiety throughout the whole day, but still was able to find the courage to follow through with the surgery. Her thyroid had grown four times in normal size. It took about two hours to remove the entire thing. Now they are sending a sample of the mass to the pathologist to see whether or not it is malignant. The doctor told us that everything went very well and that we just had to wait for the biopsy report. I have a feeling that everything is going to be all right.

The night before the surgery, my amazing husband gave my mother one of the most beautiful blessings that I have ever heard. The spirit was so strong that even I felt comforted right away. It is so wonderful to know that the Savior knows exactly how we feel when we are in our own darkest hours. Not only did he atone for every one of our transgressions, but he also felt every bad and fearful moment that we have had to endure. He knows exactly how we feel and He gives us the strength to endure our trials.

I feel so blessed to have such an amazing husband who hold the priesthood. I love my hubby with all of my heart and am grateful for all of the sacrifices that he makes to be worthy of that power. I am also blessed to have such a wonderful mother who has been at my side during every part in my life, good and bad. I hope that I can one day be half the woman that she is. I am so grateful for the wonderful people that I have in my life. And to top it all off, I have the love of my Heavenly Father and the knowledge that I am a true daughter of His.

4-4-4-4

2008-09-19T17:12:00.000-07:00

4 jobs I have had -
1. Twisted Scissor Salon
2. Taught tennis lessons for City of Sparks
3. Dental Assistant for my uncle
4. Wife/Mommy

4 movies I have seen more that once -
1. All Austin Powers movies - YEAH BABY!!!
2. The Christmas Story - Thank you TBS
3. Every Disney-Pixar movie
4. Ummm - Can I say Twilight?!?! I know I will see that more than once!

4 places I have lived -
1. Wabash - the house I grew up in
2. Moonlit - the house I lived in before I got married
3. Hillview Terrace - Me and Mike's first apartment!!!
4. Our little, brown house in Sparks - We have lived here for almost 6 years

4 TV shows I watch -
1. Grey's Anatomy - Love IT!!!
2. The Office - At one point in time Brayden wanted to be Michael Scott. Also, I was Pam and Mike was Jim according to Brayden
3. Scrubs - Mike and I have all of the seasons on DVD and we watch them over and over
4. Criminal Minds

4 favorite places I have been -
1. Hawaii - Maui, Kauai and Oahu (going to Oahu and Kauai in 2009!)
2. Mexico
3. San Francisco - I just love it there - it is like our second home!
4. - Disneyland

4 people who I text -
1. Brittney
2. Mom and Dad
3. Jen
4. Mike, but he hates it

4 of my favorite foods -
1. I love my Dad's homemade chicken soup
2. Pizza
3. When I was on chemo it was potatoes and crystal light - don't ask me why
4. Chicken - anything with chicken

4 places I would like to visit -
1. Tahiti
2. Fiji
3. Spain
4. Australia

4 people that I tag -
1. Jen
2. Mallory - when she returns from Europe - I'm so jealous
3. Steph
4. Brooke

Team Edward or Team Jacob

2008-09-15T19:47:00.000-07:00

I am in love with the Twilight series!!! Call me crazy, but I think that I am actually obsessed. Right now I am in the middle of book 4 - Breaking Dawn and so far I love it. I just couldn't believe the turn of events. So, I am not going to go into specifics just for the fact that I know that some of you "weirdo's" out there haven't read it yet. I want to ask all of you other Twilight enthusiasts who you all prefer - Team Edward or Team Jacob? Which side are all of you on? Well, I would have to tell you that I am definitely an Edward girl. He is absolutely dreamy!!! In the movie Robert Pattinson was casted to play Edward and I think that he is exactly what I pictured in my mind. His facial features are practically prefect. Although, the kid who is playing Jacob is a cutie also.

So tell me what you think. Who do you love? But be sure not to spoil the fun and tell us how it ends. By the way, wouldn't it be fun if all of us girls had a Twilight party and went to the midnight showing for when the movie comes out?!?! I am thinking about it. But everyone would have to come in the Team Edward/Jacob apparel!!!

Friday Night Bowling

2008-09-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

We went to the Coconut Bowl and put in a few games last night. We had a great time, especially Brayden. Every time we go bowling with my cousin Mitchell, we play songs that drive everyone else crazy. It is tradition that we play the song Master of Puppets by Metalica like three or four times. Mind you, the song is about twelve minutes long of just hard metal! We now that everyone there hates it, but we love it!!!

My cute little Bray-Bug!!!
This is what you look like after a long twelve hour day!
My favorite cousin Mitchell and my sister's boyfriend, Peter.

Mitchell is actually the one who gets to fire off the cannon at the UNR football games!

Brayden and his "Gary"! Do you love Brayden's personalized bowling shirt!?!?
My cute little bowler!

A Kiss For Kindergarten

2008-09-02T17:51:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the day, Buddy. In the morning you go to school for the first time. A whole new world opens to you then. You are ready to meet it. You've handled your new kindergarten clothes so many times in anticipation of the day you would first wear them. And you've almost mastered tying your own shoes, except for the hard part - making the bow.

But I wonder how ready your mother is for this new life of yours? If I could, I'd hold you back just a little longer, close to me, where I can shelter your world and share your life.

Tomorrow when you take my hand for the walk to school, I will be the one who dawdles. "Just a few minutes longer", I'll tell myself, "only a few extra minutes to keep you all mine".

When we reach that door, you'll leave me, eager to join the others in the Kindergarten room. You'll walk through it without a backward glance. There I'll stand, wanting to shed a few mother's tears because my only baby has become a little boy. But I won't cry, I promise you I won't.

Instead I'll concentrate on being proud. Proud of you, and Daddy and me. Proud that we've made you secure enough, in five years, to stand on your own for a little while, before racing home to share the news of the day. How we've built so much security, I don't know. All we've ever done is love you.

I admit I'm a bit jealous. Tomorrow you will meet the ultimate authority. Soon you will tell me, with complete confidence, what has to be done because "teacher says". I must surrender part of my position to that other woman who is about to enter your life and your heart.

No longer will I know all of your friends. Diego and Preston and Hannah are old, familiar in our yard and kitchen. But tomorrow you will broaden your horizons and meet other children I shall know only through tales of the schoolroom.

You will soon learn to keep your own little secret as you master the art of making Christmas presents: the paper chains, the felt and glitter, bookmarks, the orange juice cans transformed with macaroni and gold paint to hold Daddy's pencils. And someone else's hand will help you do it.

But there is much for us to share this year, you and I. Over cookies and milk, you will tell me what "Teacher said" and "Michael did". And I will listen, enchanted as I view the world through your eyes.

It is hard to let go, my sweet son. For five years you have been my companion. Together we have surveyed the supermarket, devoured the dollar store and puttered our way through the plant shop. It won't be the same without your trusting hand in mine.

Tomorrow I begin a new life, too. Back I go to the carpool. Each Tuesday, I will fetch you and your friends and deliver you home safely. The rest of the week, I shall watch for you as another mother brings you home to me. Then we will catch up on all that went on in school, a pair of old pals huddled closely over cups of hot cocoa.

Yes, I hate to see you leave behind the sheltered world of home and Mom. But, I will always be with you. Love reaches beyond he doors of schoolrooms, beyond the boundaries of neighborhoods, beyond time and places.

In the morning, I will help you put on your blue and brown argyle shirt and your crisp new jean shorts, and comb your hair just a little bit neater. And we will be on our way.

But tonight - tonight, for the last time you are simply my baby. And I hold you now at bedtime just a little longer, cuddle you just a little closer, give you one more kiss before saying goodnight. In the excitement, you don't notice my stealing that extra kiss. I need it for Kindergarten.

I love you so much, Brayden.

Love,
Mommy

Swimming at Auntie Cori's Pool

2008-08-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

San Fran, Sisters, Shopping and Scans!!!

2008-08-23T20:58:00.000-07:00

Britters and I went to San Francisco for a few days last week because I had to get some scans. So let me begin by telling you my expirence at my appiontment for my scans. Right as I was getting done with the PET/CT scan, the freakin' power went out. Thank goodness that I was out of the stupid tube before it went out. I know that there were other people there who were inside the machines when it happened and to top it all off, they had to redo the whole scan from the begining. So, I guess I shouldn't complain to much, at least I wasn't one of those other people!!! After that whole fiasco, I met back up with my sister who was across the street at AT&T park where she was watching the Giant's do thier batting practice. One of the players named Billy Sadler came up to her and started talking to her and then gave her a ball through the fence. I guess that baseball players can't resist beautiful, blonde haired babes like Britt :-) We then went to my appiontment with me oncologist whose name is Rob Goldsby. He is just awesome. I love the guy and he had just taken the best care of me through this whole ordeal. I have been very blessed to have him as a doctor.

After all of that boring doctor stuff, we went and got beautified at a local salon and then just did some mad shopping. I had a great time with my little sis! She always makes me laugh and just made the whole trip a blast. Oh, and by the way, my scans did come back great! I still have some spots in my neck, but they have not changed one bit. My brain, lungs, and heart all look great as well. Thanks to everyone for your love and support! I love you all!!!!!!!

Bay Bridge
Beautiful city of San Francisco
AT&T Park - Britt's ball from pitcher Billy Sadler
One of my favorite people in the whole world, Dr. Goldsby a.k.a. "Homeboy"!!!
The best place to eat - Cybelle's

Donner Lake - Part 2

2008-08-23T20:17:00.000-07:00

Mike, Brayden and I had so much fun at Donner that we thought that we would drag our friends along. Chris, Sara, Tracen and Logan were up to going with us for another sun-filled day at the lake. All we did was hang out on the dock. The boys seemed to love it and so did we. As you can see, little Logan was one tired boy by the end of the day. It was so nice to be with our friends who we love dearly. Sara and I have been friends for a very long time and it is so amazing to see out little boys play together. Watching them makes me feel like I am really getting old. It's nice when I can get together with Sara because I start to feel like a silly teenager again. She is my sister from another mister!!!Thanks Karrasch's for the fun day! We love you guys.

Bray-Bug!!!
Cute Little Tracen!!!
Lovable Logan!!!
Two Hot Mama's!!!
Little Buddies!!!!
Mommy and her 'Bubba's'!!
One really white dude!
Ooddles of Noodles!!!
Sweet little Logan all tuckered out!
Blonde babes!

Donner Lake

2008-08-23T19:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pictures of our week off. We went to Donner Lake for some hiking, swimming and shopping. I was a blast. Brayden has become quite the outdoor kid. He was hiking like a mad man!!! Then later that night we went to dinner at a place where Mike and all of his UPS buddies eat lunch. The place is called Zanno's and it has great pizza. We also found out that Truckee had an event every Thursday in the summer called Truckee Thursday's. They had bands playing up and down the street, craft booths and even a dog parade. We had a great time.

"Scanxiety"

2008-08-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I have to go down to San Francisco for a wonderful, fun-filled day of scans and doctor appointments. Every time these appointments come around I get what I call "scanxiety". I always feel as though I could vomit at any moment. I am starting to think that these appointments warrant some Xanex, don't you think? I have been lucky though. My appointments are now every three months instead of every 6 weeks. But still, it doesn't make it any less traumatizing. As of right now I have a couple of small tumors in my neck ,which have been radiated. They seem to not be doing much when it comes to growing. I just pray that it stays that way. So keep your fingers crossed and please keep me in your prayers. I know that it helps!!

There is one exciting thing about this trip. My sister, Brittney is coming with me and we are just going to do sister things. Of course we will start out our day with 3 hours of scans and about 2 hours of doctor appointments, but after that we are going right to Irving Street where we always get our pedi's and mani's. After that we will probably go out to dinner and out on the town. I just love that city. Of course during this trip there will be lots of shopping. We plan on hitting the outlet malls on Friday. I am totally pumped. Having her there with me and doing all of our fun stuff will take my mind off all of the cancer-schmancer stuff! I am blessed to have such an awesome sister!! I love you, Britt!!!!!!!!

Good Ol' Virginia City

2008-08-19T20:41:00.000-07:00

We were very lucky in the fact that Mike had all of last week off. I was just so thrilled that Brayden and I would have him all to ourselves for and entire week. We decided to stay in town and just do some fun family adventures nearby. So on this particular day we drove up to Virginia City. Brayden had never been, and I thought why not. I hadn't been to Virginia City in a very long time, since maybe high school, and I thought it was a lot cooler that it actually is. When we got there and started walking do the main road, I realized that every other place was a bar. Not really the kind of place that I would like my five year-old boy to hang out ;-) We did however go and pan for gold, walk through the beautiful chapel, and go to a museum. All in all we had a pretty good time. We did finish the trip with some yummy peanut butter fudge, which for Mike and I, was the best part of the trip!!!

Wild Waters FUN!!!

2008-08-13T21:40:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday, we went to our friend's (Greg and Amanda) daughter's birthday party. It was held at Wild Waters, one of Brayden's most favorite places on earth. Last summer Brayden and I had season passes, but we just didn't get them this year and I feel like we really missed out. Brayden is now finally tall enough to ride the bigger rides. He was a little nervous at first to ride them, but that went away fast. After that first time down he was ready to go again and again. He loved the Fire and Ice rides. He screamed like a little girl all the way down. My bigger boy loved the rides also, as you can see in one of the pictures below. Mike and Greg went on most of the rides, and they even got me to go on one. I am always nervous about those types of things because I am afraid that all of the metal in my back is just going to pop right out if I hit something the wrong way. Besides that, we had a great day at the park with our friends and family!

Look out world - Brayden's driving!!!!

2008-08-08T23:11:00.000-07:00

Big Pimpin'!

Where my girls at?
Brayden making sure that he runs it over just perfectly!
Notice here that there isn't a single cone left standing!

On Wednesday night I decided to let Brayden go out and drive his truck around the block. To say that Brayden's Ford Truck is his baby would be an understatement. It is his pride and joy. He even takes a towel and wipes of all the dirt on it when he is done driving it. As a little gift for Valentines's day, Nana got Brayden some orange cones for him to drive his truck around. We like to set them up like a course and make him drive in and out of them. Well, this night he had a different idea. He just wanted to run everything over. I do have to remind myself that he is a boy and that they like to destroy things. We then decided to put little pieces of wood on the ground so that he could run them over like they were speed bumps. He did have a blast and he is our little wild and crazy driver!

Our Sierra

2008-08-08T22:53:00.000-07:00

I just thought that I would put up a couple of pictures of our dog, Sierra. We got her at the Humane Society in February of this year. She is eight years old and super mellow. She loves to play fetch only indoors, don't ask me why!?!? Sierra is a funny dog. She loves the flash light, of course. If I have something that needs to be done, I just give the flash light to Brayden and not only does it entertain Sierra, but it entertains Brayden as well. The nice thing about her is that Brayden likes to play rough and she just takes it like a man. But I do have to say that it is nice to have another girl in the house. Sierra had just become another part of out little family!

Magic Carpet Golf

2008-08-08T22:40:00.000-07:00

My cute boys!
Hacho and Faye - The newlyweds!
Where's Brayden?
Mike looks like he's stoned in this picture! ;-)
Like Father, Like Son!!!

Last weekend, Mike, Brayden and I went out with our friends, Hacho and Faye. We went out to eat at the Olive Garden (Always a great place to eat!) and then we went miniature golfing. Here is a couple for pictures from our night. I found out that Hacho is pretty competitive, Brayden swings like Happy Gilmore and Jared Spoon always calls us when we are at Magic Carpet. He must have a sixth sense and know that we are there. It's just weird. Anyway, this was our last night out with Hacho and Faye because they moved to Colorado this week. We are sad that they left, but are happy to see them start their new lives together as husband and wife.

Naughty Boy!!!

2008-08-02T12:04:00.000-07:00

Funny story. Yesterday, Brayden was still not feeling well so I put him in his bed to rest and put on a movie for him. While he was watching his movie, I thought that I might as well get some work done around the house and I started cleaning out our office. I had the music playing and I was just cleaning away. Little did I know that Brayden had got out of bed, traveled down stairs and got my wallet out of my purse. Now, let me go back a little and tell you about the day before. We were watching a movie and Brayden had heard the ice cream man. He asked me if he could buy an ice cream sandwich and I told him that we had ice cream and popsicles and he could have one of those instead. (He really won't eat anything else right now because his mouth hurts so bad. ) I then told him that maybe he could have one tomorrow. Now, back to yesterday. After he got my wallet, he proceeded to go outside where he had heard the ice cream man. During this time I was still in my office working and had no idea that he had gone outside by himself. (We hardly ever let him go out in the front to play because we have a lot of speeders on our street. ) The next thing I know, I heard the front door close. I thought that maybe it was Mike and he was home early, but no. It was my five year old son coming up the stairs with my wallet in one hand, and an ice cream sandwich and a bag of change in the other. I had about $60 in my wallet and Brayden had give the lady a twenty from my wallet and came back with a little plastic baggie with all of the change. I the asked him where he went and he told me that he just went out and got himself an ice cream. I told him that he was in big trouble and that he knew that he wasn't supposed to go outside by himself. He then looked at me and asked, "Am I in time out, Mommy?". I was trying so hard not to laugh and he knew it. I then told him to just go to his room and eat his ice cream sandwich. Then of course I had to call my whole family and let them all know what he had done. What a little stinker!!! Oh, by the way, I did get the right amount in change back. Good thing.

I hate insurance!!!!! (Well, kinda)

2008-07-31T18:54:00.000-07:00

So this is what a sick child looks like. Poor little Brayden is so sick right now. A couple of days ago I babysat my cousin's kids so that he and his wife could go to the Reno-Tahoe Open because my uncle Ron was playing in the amature round. Brayden , Leighton and Scarlett played all day and had a good time, but after they left Brayden started to not feel so well. I felt his head and he was on fire. He then told me that his head and throte hurt. The poor kid was just in pain.

Yesterday I took him in to our family doctor. I found out that what he had was a virus and that there was nothing that they could really do and that he would just have to wait it out. To top it all off, our doctor heard a heart murmur on Brayden. He has had it since he was a baby, but it hasn't gone away yet. So now he has to go in for an ecocardiogram to make sure that it is still a functioning heart murmur. Isn't that just dandy?!?!

When I got home, I got right on the phone making appointments for Brayden's heart. Later I got a call back form the cardiologist saying that they called to confirm our insurance and that they had told them that Brayden was not on our plan. I then called the insurance company and they said that they had no record of our son. Mind you, we have had our insurance since we have been married and all of Brayden's appointments have been paid in full everywhere. After that lovely phone call I called Mike and I was balling my eyes out. I was so upset because all I wanted to do was make an appointment for my son. Anyway, to make a long story short, my insurance company is making me fill out an enrolment form for Brayden and also send in his birth certificate. So as of right now I still have no idea how all of Brayden's appointments have been paid for the last five years. It's a mystery! Don't you all just love insurance companies!?!?!

Loon Lake

2008-07-26T15:13:00.000-07:00

This last week, Brayden and I went to Washington with my family to go and visit some friends of ours. We did leave Mike behind (poor guy) because he had to work. So, Brayden and I packed up our bathing suits and drove 14 hours, in one day mind you, to a lake just outside Spokane. The lake is called Loon Lake and it is beautiful. The were trees everywhere and the water was warm and calm. We stayed in a cute cabin with our friends, the Pratts. Our families have been close for about twenty years now. Our friendship started when I was five years old. Brandon,who is my age, walked me home from kindergarten. Not to long after that did Brandon's mom become me and my sisters babysitter. It seems like everytime our families get together that we have to hear the story about Brandon and Meagan and how everything got started. But anyway, we stayed for about a week and a half. I can honestly say that we did pretty much did nothing but relax on the beach and play with all of the water toys. We stayed up late playing different games (my favorite being spoons) and we slept in late every morning. It was really nice to not have to do or worry about anything for an entire week. I do have to say that we missed our daddy and husband very much. Its just not the same without him! Here are a few pictures of our trip.

Brayden loved the jet skiis! It was really hard to get him to do anything else. He also loved to tube!My dad, Mitchell and BrittersGrandpa Gary and Brayden - Best Buds! Vogue! Vouge! Vogue!
Brandon and Brayden on the jet ski.
Brayden being burried - say that ten times really fast.
Jack, Brayden and Holly having fun in the sun. You can see the Hobie Cat Sail Boat in the background. It was awesome. At one point on the trip Mitchell and Brandon go it up on one plantoon and then tipped it over.
Here is Brayden and Will. They became good friends on the trip and got to play together almost every day.
Bucket Head! Here is our totally sweet sand castle.
Brayden loved to swim out to the dock and then just run and jump off of it.
Here we all are on our last day there, sad to go, but ready to get back home to our daddy!

Happy Birthday Dad!!!

2008-07-15T18:07:00.000-07:00

It was my dad's 50Th birthday a couple of weeks ago, so my mom, sister and I decided to throw him a surprise birthday party. We had it on Saturday night and it was a total blast. Here is a picture of me and my sister, Brittney. We posed like this on every single one of my mom's disposable camera's. I hope she gets a kick out of it.
We invited around 75 people to this bash, all consisting of my dad's family and closest friends.
Here we all are waiting for his arrival. I felt like I had butterflies in my stomach while I was waiting for him.
After he arrived, my mom, my sister and I all got up and said a few things about my father. My mom told everyone how my dad has gone to the blood bank every Sunday for the past two years where he donates platelets in my name. He does this because when I was going through treatment I needed a lot of transfusions and I was always in need of platelets. The blood bank has said that my dad has donated 88 bag of platelets which is equivalent to 150 blood donations, which in turn has saved 150 live and/or allowed 150 people to continue their chemo treatment. That brought tears to my eyes and many others when we heard that.
We also had a live bandi called The Recliners. The lead singer is my dad's best friend, Brad, who is actually the one with the guitar. The guy singing is a random person who sang like crap!. The band however was absolutely amazing!

Here are some family and friends cutting loose on the dance floor!
Here is my favorite cousin David! He got up a few times with the band and sang for us. In this picture I think that he is singing Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire. Rock On Dave!!!!
Me, Mom and Britt! Hey Mom - Love the wide open mouth!!!
This has to be my most favorite picture of all! This is my uncle Kenny wearing his wife's sweater and sunglasses!
Here is my awesome dad at the end of the night opening his gifts. I just want to say how much I love my dad and how grateful I am to have him as my father. He has been there for me in my darkest hours and I couldn't ask for a greater father, friend, and grandpa "Gary"! We love you Dad! Happy 50Th Birthday!

Happy 31st Birthday!!!

2008-07-15T17:36:00.000-07:00

This last week was Mike's 31st birthday. We didn't really celebrate to much because the poor guy had to put in a long, hard day at work. Because my dear, sweet husband works so hard for our little family, I am able to stay home with Brayden. So by the time Mike got home Brayden and I had a nice dinner made for him and a little cake (Brayden really did help me with the dinner and the cake. He is quite the little Chef!). I know it wasn't much, but it was a nice evening with just our little family. The rest of the night consisted of relaxation and watching our favorite TV show Scrubs.
The next day we continued our birthday celebration with a day of baseball. We left early in the morning so that we could see the A's play the Mariner's. I love this picture of Brayden. Look at those cute ears!!!
Before the game we were able to watch the Mariner's batting practice and the A's team do their stretches. But the best part of the whole day was Brayden. We were really close to one of the coaches of the Mariner's who was actually fielding balls from batting practice. Brayden yells, "Hey, Coach! Throw me a ball!" The coach heard him and waived his arms at him and told him that he could have the next ball. Well, the ball came and the coach then threw it up to Mike to give to Brayden. Now, for all of those who don't know Brayden really well, let me tell you a little bit about him. He is one active kid who has the energy of about 5 children in 1. He is very fun, loving and gets excited for almost about anything. So at that moment that Brayden gets the ball, he gets super excited and then decides play a game of catch and throw the ball back to the Coach. All of the fans in the stands and the players in the outfield got a kick out of it and were cracking up and cheering. The coach then got another ball and told Brayden not to throw this one back, that it was his to keep. After that the ball stayed in my purse so that there was no way of him throwing it out again. And that is our little boy for ya!!!
Brayden and his Major League Baseball!
Let's Go A's!!!

Awesome Art

2008-07-14T22:35:00.000-07:00

A couple of months ago Mike, Brayden and I went to Sacramento and San Francisco for just a fun little weekend away. I decided that I wanted to post these photos because I thought that they were pretty cute and funny of Brayden. I do have to say that any picture of my little man is adorable! During this trip we went to Golden Gate Park where they have this really cool art exhibit. I could have spent the whole day there, but of course when you have a very active 4 year old, your plans change fast. Brayden got bored of course and all he wanted to do is climb on everything. But I did get some really cute pictures out of it. My favorite is the safety pin with my little Bray-Bug inside of it. He is such a ham!!!!!!!!!!!!

I Kick Cancer's A@$!!!

2008-07-13T03:37:00.001-07:00

Visit PLANET CANCER

6 Flags and the A's

2008-07-09T12:40:00.000-07:00

Our awesome kid!
Isn't he cute?!?!
Peter, Britt, Jaxson, Mom and Dad
Shouka the Whale
Two tired tots!
AT&T Park
The greatest Oakland fans ever!!!
We won of course!
The most beautiful city in the world!
The best bread bowl in the world!

A couple of weeks ago we decided to get out town and go to 6 Flags. It was a great weekend for us to relax and have some fun with the boys. We started our day at 6 Flags where we went on a lot of little kid rides. They boys loved it. I was surprised by Brayden because he didn't want to go on the kiddie rides, he wanted to go on the huge roller coasters. He just has no fear in him at all. Luckly he was to short for the adult rides, so we stuck with rides like Thomas the Train and all of the Looney Toon ones. We also went and saw most of the animal shows, absolutely loving the whale show. As you can see by the pictures, the boys were tuckered out by the end of the day.

Mike and I were able to leave Brayden with my family and we snuck away early to catch a Giants and A's game in the city. It was great to watch our favorite team crush the Giants and sweep the series. I do have to say though, I love AT&T Park way better than the Coliseum. That won't be for long because the A's are going to start building a new park soon and I am waiting in anticipation. It is going to be beautiful.

We were able to finish the night off with a world famous bread bowl at Fisherman's Wharf. I have to say that I love the city of San Francisco. It has truly become our home away from home. We have met the most amazing people that and hopefully one day, if I can talk Mike into it, we will live there. It may only be in my dreams though!

The Best Cake Ever!!!!!!!!

2008-07-08T23:09:00.001-07:00

So it was my birthday a couple of weeks back and a friend of mine made me the best birthday cake ever. If you don't already know, our family is major Oakland A's fans. You might even call me obsessed. I live for baseball and baseball season. Every October I get a little depressed because baseball season is ending and then football season starts and I am not a huge fan of football. Baseball is the greatest sport ever made and the A's are the best team ever made. I know, I know, they aren't that good, but give them a little time and they are going to win the series (not this year of course). But I can love under the best and worst conditions so that makes me an A's superfan! Thanks Amanda for the awesome cake. (If you want to see some beautiful cakes go to http://www.smandacakes.blogspot.com/)

We Love the 4th of July!

2008-07-08T22:27:00.000-07:00

My Cute Boys!!!
Mommy and her baby!
Kurt, Mallory and Carson Grover
Brayden covering his ears from the loud noises!

4th of July is one of my favorite holidays. I really don't know why I love it so much, but I really do. Mike and I have had this tradition of going down to the Nugget every year for the fireworks. We have done it every year since we have been married with the exception of one, which was when I was in one of my big surgeries to remove my cancer. I love that we live in a land where we can be free and have the right to chose whatever we want. I love that I can practice my religion and also to be able to share the gospel with others without any consequences. We live in a great nation.

This year was a fun one for us. We some of our family and friends over at our house for a barbecue. Of course, I forget to take any pictures of that. We had good old fashioned hot dogs, potato salad and a beautiful red velvet cake which was made by my friend Mallory. I wish I would have taken a picture of the cake because it was beautiful. It had a cream cheese frosting with blueberries and strawberries on it in a shape of a flag. Thanks again Mallory for the awesome cake.

After we stuffed ourselves with food, we went to downtown Sparks where we able to watch the fire works from a fairly close range. Brayden made me giggle. He hates loud noises, so he held his hand over his ears for the first half of the show and then realized that it wasn't really all that loud. Last year he covered his ears for the whole entire show. Maybe by next year we can go without the hands over the ears, or I may just have to buy him some earmuffs!

The food was great, the fireworks were great, the whole day was just great. We are truly blessed to live in this land. I am thankful for all of our service men and women who fight for our rights every single day. (That goes especially for my two military heroes, Dave and Joe - Thank you for all that you have done and continue to do.) We hope that your 4th was just as great!

Husband Tag!

2008-07-05T11:22:00.000-07:00

I was tagged by my friend Sara and I love this tag. It is all about my wonderful and handsome husband Mike. I will be tagging Jen, Stephanie, Brooke and Mallory.

1. What is his name?
Mike, Michael, Babe, Hun and of course daddy.

2. Who eats more?
No question about that. Mike.

3. Who said I love you first?
Mike. He said it to me in my car outside of his parent's house.

4. Who is taller?
Mike. I am a shorty!

5. Who is smarter?
We both take the cake on that one. Plus, it depends on the subject. Mike is a history nut and I love science and the human body.

6. Who is more sensitive?
Me, hands down. I'm a cry baby!

7. Who does the laundry?
I do the laundry mostly, but he does help me out alot.

8. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed?
Me

9. Who pays the bills?
Me

10. Who cooks more?
I do all of the cooking and that is only when I feel like it. All Mike likes to do is grill!
11. Who is more stubborn?
Me, always. Its that Vaughn in me.

12. Who is the first to admit that they are wrong?
Both of us.

13. Who has more siblings?
Wow, Mike definitly does. Mike has 6 sisters and 1 brother. I have 1 sister and 1 brother.

14. Who wears the pants in the family?
We go pantless ;-)

15. What do you like to do together?
We love to play with Brayden, lay in bed together and watch movies, travel to far off places, go to A's baseball games, go to San Francisco just for the heck of it, listen to great music, bowling, working on our house together, etc.

16. Who eats more sweets?
Me, of course! Brayden and I love the mini nilla waffers!

17. Guilty pleasures?
I have to agree with Sara. Strawberries and whipped cream!

18. How did you meet?
We met at a Halloween party. He noticed her and she noticed him.

19. Who proposed?
Of course he did! Thats how it should be.

20. What is his best features?
Mike has the most beautiful eyes. They are a sky blue and he has the longest eye lashes. But my most favorite part of my husband is his booty. He has a lot of junk in his trunk!

21. What is his greatest qualties?
He is the greatest man that I have ever known. He is the most kind, forgiving and loving person on this earth. He is the best father to our little boy and the greatest husband to me. He has seen me through that best and worst of times. He was there for me when my body looked some-what good and when I had hair and he was there for me when I was bald, throwing up and totally scarred from surgery. Words can't even describe how I feel about that man. He makes me laugh when I need to and when I am down and out he just puts his arms around me and holds me. I love my husband with all of my heart. I want to be the best person that I can be and do all that I can so that I can spend all of time and eternity with him. I love you Mike.

Wall-E - Two thumbs up!

2008-07-02T19:59:00.001-07:00

Today Brayden, Brittney and I went and saw Disney's newest movie, Wall-E. I have to start off saying that my dear, cute little boy did not want to go to the movies at all today, but being the terrible parent that I am, I made him. What kid do you know that doesn't want to go to the movies and be loaded up with popcorn, soda and candy?!?! After I told him that he would be able to get some Dibbs ice cream, he then decided that he would go. We sat down at the theaters with all of our junk food and enjoyed the movie. I do have to say that Disney-Pixar has never made a movie that I didn't like. I think that my sister and I wanted to go and see Wall-E more that Brayden did, but by the end of the movie Brayden was talking in Wall-E's voice. I do have to say that I think he loved the movie as much as we did. We gave it two thumbs up and when it comes out, we will be buying it.

A Night in Bulgaria

2008-06-28T22:17:00.001-07:00

Tonight was a first for me. Mike and I went over to Hacho and Faye's house for a nice Bulgarian feast. Hacho is from Bulgaria and Faye served her mission there (For all of those who don't know, Mike served his mission in Bulgaria too). So they decided that we would have a night filled with different Bulgarian cuisines. I do have to start out by saying that Hacho is quite the chef. He knows all the tricks of the trade and is fun to watch in the kitchen. The first item on the list was Moosaka. I thought that it was a lot like stew until I saw what the topping was. Moosaka is potatoes, ground beef, onions and tomatoes all sauteed together and spiced up with many different types of spices. Then you put a topping on it which consists of eggs, flour and yogurt. Sounds crazy right!?!? Then it is baked and ready to enjoy. I was nervous at first to have it, but it was actually quite wonderful. Yogurt in Bulgaria is very different then the yogurt that we have here. It tastes very salty. The next item we had was Tarator. It is sort of like a cold soup. It consists mainly of grated cucumbers in a yogurt type soup. You then flavor it with garlic, dill, vinegar and walnuts. It too was very tasty. The last thing that we had was my favorite, Shopska Salata. All it is is chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, red peppers and green onions topped with feta cheese, oil and vinegar. It is so yummy!!!

We had a great night with some great friends. We finished the night of by talking and looking at old mission photos and having fabulous walnut cookies. It has been so nice being able to hang out with Hacho and Faye and learn more about the Bulgarian culture. Mike and I cannot wait until the day that we will be able to go back there. I personally can't wait to meet the people that my husband was able to share the gospel with. The gospel is amazing and it is wonderful for how it brings so many people together. Thank you Hacho and Faye for the wonderful evening!!!
(Sorry, I forgot to take any pictures! I am a total goober!)

Hello Blogging World!

2008-06-26T20:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally did it! We are now current with the times and have started our own little family blog. I am so glad that we decided to do this because it not only keeps us in touch with our friends and family here but with everyone else who is away from us. I am going to try to keep this post as current as possible so that you can see all that happens in our lives. I am also going to be posting a lot of pictures once I figure out how to do it right. I hope that you all come back and continue to check out our blog. Also, don't forget to leave me a little comment if you would like! Peace, love and a pinch of glitter!!! - Meg