Quote of the Day

"The three grand essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for."

--Joseph Addison.

Holiday Cheer!

Merry Christmas everyone!

I just wanted to wish my friends and family a very Merry Christmas!! I'm home for the holidays, and it is so nice.

I hope you all are enjoying your holidays as much as I am.

Holiday Gingersnaps

I'm going to do some holiday baking today. I love to bake, but usually only bake during the holidays. I'm baking these for my co-workers today. This is my mom's famous "King Size Gingersnaps" recipe. She always made these during the holidays when I was a child. They bring back happy memories!

"King Size Gingersnaps"
1 3/4 cups flour
3/4 cup sugar
1 egg
1/4 cup light molasses
1 Tablespoon soda
1 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon ginger
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Measure 1 cup sugar and mix remaining ingredients. Sprikle sugar on waxed paper. Shape dough into 1 1/2 inch balls and roll in sugar. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake 12-15 minutes. Yum!

Stress Relief...Finally!

Tonight I am enjoying a night in. I just got home from having a yummy spaghetti dinner with my aunt Nanci. Tonight is the first night in a long while that I haven't had papers to write or math homework to complete. I'm watching a tv show that has been waiting for me all week, and then I'm taking a bubble bath! (complete with a glass of wine, like in the picture above) I know I have Christmas cards to write, and people still to shop for but I'm taking it easy tonight. I think I've earned it!

Holiday Traditions

I'm taking a quick study break to share some holiday traditions with you. Growing up, my sweet mom would give my sisters and I a holiday ornament every year. We would put our initials on it and hang it on the tree. Then, when we get married, we will have enough ornaments to hang on our first Christmas tree together.

Another tradition is, every Christmas Eve my dad reads us some holiday children's books. My favorite one that he reads to us is called "The Cajun Night Before Christmas" by Jenny Jackson Moss. It's truly a treat to hear this story, because my dad reads it with a very southern accent.

I think holiday traditions can bring families together. What are yours?

My Grown Up Christmas List

Dear Santa,

Here is my grown up Christmas List. I have been good this year.

1) A watch
2) A new outfit
3) A kiss underneath the mistletoe
4) Peace on Earth

I'll be sure to leave milk and cookies.

Love, Kenna.

Random things about me...

I recently had some inspiration from my best friend Mary's blog(www.krisandmary.blogspot.com) and her "Random Ramblings" post. This got me thinking, and I have come up with some random things of my own.

First, my dream job. A friend asked me what my dream job was, and I first thought of teaching, but now I'm not so sure anymore. I didn't know what to tell him. After some thought, I think my dream job would be a children's book author. I remember reading countless books to my preschoolers during story time, and thinking "I could have written this, why don't I write a book?!" So, this is a goal of mine that I would someday like to accomplish. I think this stems from my childhood love of books. Often times you could find me curled up and reading and also begging to be read to. Reading and writing are loves of mine.

Sleep. I am one of those people who needs a good 7 to 8 hours of sleep a night, every night. If I don't get this, then I get emotional. I also think that any sickness, such as colds and flu can be remedied if you just go to bed.

Dogs. I am a dog lover, and always have been. Growing up we had a dog, or a few at time and they became companions and friends. I especially love Terriers, Labs, and Golden Retrievers. We had the first two growing up, but the Golden Retriever love stems from the show "Full House" and the dog Comet I think. I used to watch that show growing up and always wanted a Golden Retriever. haha.

Food. I'm not a picky eater at all! I'll try anything once as long as it's not too spicy. I think the most common meal I eat is chicken, brown rice, and vegetables. I know I'm boring and need to branch out! I also love Mexican food and Sushi.

Color. I love the color red. It's so warm and vibrant. If you were to see my bedroom, you would know this about me. I also love spring colors.

Flowers. I am a lover of all flowers. I think they are the most beautiful creation, and I doubt there's a flower that I don't like! I know some guys think flowers are a lame gift, but I'll take them any day! I even got my floral certification several years ago after being inspired by all of the darling corner flower shops in Boston. I'd like to get a side job as a florist to be able to use this skill. My all time favorite flowers are pink tulips. I also love roses for how they smell and the significance they have.

The beach. I think this place is one of the most perfect of God's creations. Growing up, we would travel to Clearwater Beach, Florida. If you were to ask me what my "happy place" is, this comes to mind.

Fear. I'm terrified of deep water, and will not go in it! This stems from playing with cups during my swim lessons as a child. I never did learn how to swim.

Organization. Despite my best attempts at organization, I am truly a pack-rat. It's a battle I deal with daily, but I'm working on it!

Friendship. After an extremely shy childhood came my social butterfly years in high school. Now, I'm somewhere in the middle. I have a handful of dear friends. I choose deep friendship with a few rather than being acquaintances with many.

Sisters. I have two beautiful sisters, one older and one younger. A friend asked me if I have "middle-child" syndrome. I definitely do not. I enjoy being in the middle!

The Perfect Holiday Recipe

I'm going to share a holiday recipe of my mom's. It's the perfect thing to bring to your holiday parties. I made this on Thanksgiving(my family is weird, we don't like pumpkin pie) and it is to die for!!

Brownie Trifle:

1 brownie mix, prepared as directed.
2 boxes of chocolate mousse, prepared as directed.
1 pt. whipping cream, whipped (DON'T use cool whip, use the real stuff)
2 heath or score bars, crushed (you can use peppermint too, for more color)

Prepare brownies and mousse. Crumble brownies in the bottom of a really pretty trifle dish. Cover with a layer of chocolate mousse and crumbled score bars. Add a layer of whipping cream, and repeat layers. End with the whipping cream. On top, decorate with raspberries, strawberries, mint leaves, peppermint chips, or chocolate swirls, whatever you think is pretty.

I promise you'll be famous at your next party!

What would you do?

I was at work today when the topic of time came up. We were all discussing what we would do if we had a bonus hour added to our days. Immediately, most of us said sleep. We all work the 6:00 am shift, and my that is early especially on cold winter mornings. So, I think I would opt to sleep in until 5:30 instead of waking at 4:30. But then I got to thinking "how boring is that?" I would have nothing to show for my extra hour. So... in the end I think I would spend that extra time with friends or family and get out and do something fun!

The benefits of consigning.

Every time I put away clean laundry, I always think that I need to clean out my closet (which is overflowing) and consign some items! My closet was so full that I had clothes draped over a chair. It was such a mess and I finally did something about it. Since my mom owns a beautiful consignment store, The Wandering Wardrobe (www.thewanderingwardrobe.blogspot.com) I consigned them with her. There are many benefits to consignment. We all want to save the earth and be more green, and consigning is as green as you can get!! It's basically just recycling your clothing. Everyone also likes a little extra cash in their pocket. At the Wandering Wardrobe, consignors earn 50% of what sells. Some of my mom's customers call their consignment money their pizza money. The process is easy, quick, and painless. The Wandering Wardrobe does it all for you. All you have to do is make sure it's clean and in great condition, and drop it off. Once you're in the store, you might just find a treasure or two.

The Wandering Wardrobe is located in a beautiful historic home at 511 South Main Street in Springville. (801) 489-3893.

Thanksgiving Pictures

Hi friends! I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! I had such a wonderful time with my dear family. I definitely ate too much!! I just wanted to tell my friends and family that I'm thankful for them this year, and always. I thought I'd share some pictures.

Thanksgiving Favorites

I'm going to share my 7 favorite things about Thanksgiving. Hopefully you'll comment and tell me yours.

1) Saying what we're thankful for before we eat.
2) My Grandma Dolly's homemade stuffing recipe that my mom makes.
3) The Macy's Thanksgiving day parade.
4) There is usually a dog show on after this that we love to watch.
5) Turkey and cranberry sandwiches the next day.
6) Putting up the Christmas decorations the next day.
7) Having the whole family together even if it's just one day.

"An Attitude of Gratitude."

There was a great message in church this morning that I thought I'd share. My pastor was talking about giving thanks. When we choose to have "an attitude of gratitude" our lives can become so blessed. He encouraged us to keep a gratitude journal and jot down the things we are grateful for everyday. It doesn't have to be big, in fact the little things might just be the most significant.

When we acknowledge what we are grateful for, many things happen in our lives. We are more likely to help those in need, we have fewer health problems like colds or the flu, we have less sadness and depression, we attract like-minded people, and more blessings come into our life.

My Favorite Things About Winter

I'll be the first one to admit, that winter is my least favorite of all the four seasons. It can sometimes just be so cold and dreary and driving in the snow is no fun. But, I was thinking today that there are many things I do enjoy about this season and I thought I'd share.

Sitting by the roaring fire.
Flannel sheets.
Chai tea and apple cider.
Skiing on a sunny day.
Snowshoeing.
The holidays.
Christmas decorations.
Polarfleece.
Sweaters.

3 for 5

Members of my church community (www.k2thechurch.com) have joined in a global movement to provide clean drinking water to people all over the world. The idea is simple: invite 3 friends to give $5 each to unite a community of 20 million people to help provide clean water to millions of people in the developing world.

Did you know that more than 1.1 billion people lack access to safe water and 2.6 billion people lack even basic sanitary facilities. It is something that we in America never think about. We just turn on the faucet, and there it is ready for us. Diseases caused by unsafe drinking water and inadequate sanitation remain humanity’s most serious public health threat, causing 80% of the sicknesses in developing countries and annually killing between 2 and 5 million people, mainly young children. Lack of water and sanitation also causes other problems, such as lack of education, nutrition, environmental health, and gender equality.

So, what do you say? Are you with me? To sign up, visit www.3for5.org to place your email in a mailing list. 3 for 5 will contact you in 2009. Search "3 for 5" at www.youtube.com to watch an inspiring video.

Go Utes!!

I'm taking a break from writing a paper to cheer on the Utah Utes!! The big game starts today at 4:00. I am having dinner and watching the game with my friend Marianne, who just happens to be a big BYU Cougars fan. This should be interesting!!

Really?

I just read an article on WebMd about a new fad diet called the "Cookie Diet." http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/the-cookie-diet. I'm always looking for diet and health tips and I was intrigued as to how an individual can eat 5-6 cookies a day and lose weight. Apparently the cookies are filled with healthy ingredients and you're supposed to eat 5-6 of them a day in place of meals. Dinner consisits of a whopping 300 calories. The authors of the diet recommend that you eat about 800 calories a day and you'll expect to lose 2-3 pounds a week. Um...last time I checked that's called anorexia, my friends. A healthy goal when dieting is between 1200-1700 calories per day. Any nutritionist will tell you that it is really bad for your health to cut out entire food groups. This diet recommends that you don't consume any dairy or fruit. It is entirely lacking in whole grains and vegetables too.

I'm not a nutritionist, although somedays I think that'd be a really fun field to go into. I say if it sounds like a fad than it probably is. Moderation is key.

It's Coming!!!!!

My little sister Alyx and my best friend forever Mary got me hooked on the wonderul Stephanie Meyer Vampire series books. I'm so excited to see the new Twilight movie this weekend!! I'm looking forward to seeing what they did with the movie. Can't hardly wait!

A new Thanksgiving recipe

I have signed up to get email recipes from Weight Watchers. A tasty one came along and I thought I'd share. Why not try sweet potatoes this year? They are good for you and chock full of nutrients. I thought I'd bring these to my family's dinner this year. Of course, we'll still have normal mashed potatoes because it isn't tradition without those!

Here's the recipe:

Ingredients
3 medium sweet potato(es), peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks (about 2 pounds)
2 medium garlic clove(s), peeled
1/2 cup(s) plain fat-free yogurt, Greek-variety recommended
4 tsp sugar
1/8 tsp table salt, or more to taste
1/8 tsp black pepper, freshly ground, or to taste
Instructions
Place potatoes and garlic in a large saucepan and pour in enough water to cover potatoes. Set pan over high heat and bring to a boil. Boil until potatoes are fork-tender, about 8 minutes.


Drain potatoes and garlic; transfer potatoes and garlic to a large bowl. Add yogurt and sugar to bowl; mash until smooth. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Yields about 1/2 cup per serving.

Best of all, they're only one point per serving!

Recipe and picture from www.weightwatchers.com

Good-Bye JCC

Last Friday was my last day of work at the JCC. Due to financial and insurance reasons, I took a position at Discover Card.

I've taught at the JCC for almost two years. I grew to love the children in my class as my own. I developed great relationships with their parents and all of the wonderful and talented staff there.

It was a hard last day. My whole class gave me a big group hug, and during it I had tears streaming down my face. I will miss my co-teachers Pam, Anny, and Brandy so much. The Administrative team was so good to me, and I left on excellent terms. I will miss story-time, my favorite part of the day. I will also miss learning about the Jewish Culture and doing Shabbat every Friday morning.

It was my first day at Discover Card yesterday. It was definitely an adjustment starting work at 6:00 am. But, the upside of that is that I'm completely done with work by 2:00 in the afternoon with the whole day ahead of me! This will create some much needed study time. I will definitely miss the "family" style atmosphere of the J. Discover can't quite compare to that because they have over 5,000 employees, but I hope to make friends with the members of my team and recreate that family feeling.

I was sad to leave teaching because I want to eventually teach elementary school. With this new job I'll be able to pay my way through the rest of school and be able to live more comfortably. I guess doing what you love doesn't always pay the bills and I think I made the right choice.

I'm Thankful For...

My family has a wonderful Thanksgiving tradition. Every year we go around the table, and toast each other and say what we're thankful for. This is a wonderful tradition from my parents, and I hope to pass it down to my children someday.

I'd just like to share what I'm thankful for this year:

My family.

My dear friends, both far and near.

My health. I didn't have the best of health in 2008, but now I have it back and am so grateful.

My church community.

Children.

My education.

Nature.

A night out with friends, free from the stress of work and school.

Hummus

I've been doing a lot of cooking from my new Weight Watchers cookbook. I thought I'd take some of my favorite recipes and share them with you. I made a batch of Hummus and it's quite tasty. I pack it with carrot sticks and red bell pepper slices for my lunch. If you're following Weight Watchers like me, it's only 2 low points per serving!

1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas
1/2 cup plain fat-free yogurt
2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, crushed
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 tablespoon water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

In a food processor or blender, puree all the ingredients until blended, but still a little chunky.

November Blog

It's been a long while since I last posted.

To update--Mason is doing remarkably well! He's finally HOME after spending 26 days at Primary Children's hospital. He is truly a miracle!! If anyone needs proof that miracles happen, then read Mason's story! Thanks all for your prayers and support.

Like the rest of the nation, I was glued to the tv on Election Night. My roommate and friend Crystal and I both cried as Obama gave his speech. We both feel so hopeful for our country.

Things are going well in my life. I have crazy busy 14 hour days Monday-Thursday so that's why I haven't blogged in a while.

I plan on blogging at least once a week. I've been doing some healthy cooking, and will post some recipes for you to try.

Prayers Needed!

I just learned today that my cousin Roger's little 11 year old son Mason was hit by a car last night. He was riding his bike without a helmet when he was hit. The driver did not see him because of the sun. He was flown to Primary Children's hospital in critical condition. He is in the ICU right now with severe head injuries. The Hulce family could use your prayers and support at this tough time. Thanks friends.

September

We are half-way through the month of September. There's something about September that signifies a fresh start. I think this way because I'm a teacher, and school always starts in September. It's the second week of school at the JCC. All the classrooms have sharp new crayons, bright new markers, and art supplies. The children all have shiny new shoes, and are fresh faced and eager to be at school. The months of September and January are great months to make new goals. I've made a few myself, and am eager to get going with them. I will most likely be able to graduate from the University of Utah this spring. That's a huge accomplishment for me. I'd like to lose 15 more pounds. I've lost 55 so far, and I'm well on my way to my goal size. I'd like to create more memories and take more pictures this year.

First Day of School

I had my first day of school two days ago. I've been so busy that I haven't been able to blog about it yet. I'm only taking 11 credit hours, but with working full-time it is a lot. I have a 7:30 am class that I'll be attending Monday-Thursday. That sure seems early, but it's the only time that it's offered that I can take it. It will be a busy semester with math and statistics. If all goes well then I can graduate in the spring. I can definitely see the light at the end of the tunnel and I'm so excited. I know it's taken me a long time to get through with school, but I've learned quite a bit along the way.

My preschool children will have their first day of school next Wednesday. My co-teachers Pam and Anny and I are getting our classroom all set up. It looks darling. Today I spent my morning coloring name-tags with marker. I can't believe that I get paid to color!

Secret Lake

I went hiking last night with some girlfriends to Secret Lake, which is a few miles up Little Cottonwood Canyon. We had an amazing time, although we were freezing in our shorts and thin jackets. The air was brisk! We hiked up to the to the lake at the top. On our way we saw 12 deer, a bunny, and believe it or not, a moose! This was my first time seeing a moose and it was incredible. He was napping in a clearing. The beautiful wildflowers were in abundance! It was so pretty, and it really reminded me of how much I love our Utah mountains.

Breaking Dawn

I spent the majority of my day yesterday on my balcony reading Stephanie Meyer's final book in the series "Breaking Dawn." It is such a good read! I feel like I've been waiting all summer to get my hands on this book. Work felt agonizingly long today because I just got to the good part!

If anyone hasn't read the "Twilight" series yet-I guarantee that you will enjoy it. Even though it's geared towards teenagers, it's such a fantastic read!

If you've finished the book before me, please don't spoil the ending!

Happy reading!

It is what it is...

I had a doctor's visit with a specialist yesterday. I'm really feeling so much better, and so it was good to be at the doctor with no pressing and urgent problems.

However, we talked about my care and the probability of me going off of blood thinners. When I was in the hospital, they told me I may have to be on them as little as three months, or a year, or perhaps indefinitely. I went to my visit yesterday feeling optimistic.

I left the visit feeling really down. I have to be on them indefinitely. He went over the risks of going off of them and since my clot was unprovoked I'd have a 10% chance of having another clot in a year, and a whopping 40% chance of having one in 5-10 years. I just don't want to gamble with odds like that.

I immediately consulted my best friend Mary who told me that they keep me alive and healthy, and she likes me that way! I have to learn to look at it that way, but today I'm just feeling scared because they are so dangerous.

Drug manufacturers are currently making new and safer blood thinners. I hope that they come out soon.

I have to remember that it is what it is. Things always happen for a reason, and I have to remember that today.

Sugar

These days, because of my recent "lifestyle makeover" I've found that I can use all the help that I can get. I enjoy reading health and fitness books and magazines. I've recently come across some websites that I enjoy as well including www.weightwatchers.com, and www.self.com.

I recently came across an article about sugar that I'd like to share. I've taken a Nutrition class in college before but I never knew this. Your body digests sugar easily which causes your blood sugar levels to spike. The hormone insulin rushes in to lower it, and you're left with a low blood sugar level. This in turn causes most people to binge in order to raise their blood sugar levels again.

The article recommended to ditch any foods that have more than 10 grams of sugar. I took their advice and have been doing this. When I crave something sweet I'll have a piece of fruit because it has naturally occuring sugar and fiber. I've also cut out refined white flour products. You'd be amazed at how much sugar they contain.

"Think Like Your Cat!"

I was eating my lunch in the staff lounge today at work when the topic of this weekend came up with a co-worker named S. I told her that I was going to get my hair highlighted, catch up on laundry, and maybe go to the pool. Then I asked her what she is doing this weekend. She replies, "Taking a road trip to Denver to enter my cat and I into a game show contest!" Wait...what??! You'd have to just know her to appreciate this. She's totally fun. She's always up for anything. I guess there's a game show on Game Show Network called "Think Like Your Cat." The winner of the game show wins a million dollars!

The idea for this apparently started a few months ago when S took her cat to a cat psychic. (Yes..I know) The cat psychic said her cat would like a bird to play with, and would like to be entered into a game show contest.

S even went so far as to purchase a baby sling so that she can transport her cat easily. Hilarious!

Her weekend sounds like much more fun than mine will be. Now I'm sitting here wishing I owned a cat...

Dog Lake

My sister Erin and I went hiking up Millcreek Canyon on Saturday morning. We went up a trail to a place called Dog Lake. The hike was about 6.5 miles, and I was so proud of myself for completing it. It was so beautiful! The wildflowers were in bloom and the trail smelled of pine. I thoroughly enjoyed my morning, and it reminded me why I'm so happy to live in such a beautiful state with incredible wilderness opportunities. The only downfall of the day was that I tripped and fell and skinned my leg. I guess I had to have some battlescars. Erin and I both forgot our cameras, but I found this picture online.

Kappa Friends

I recently had a chance to see several Kappa friends again at Lindy and Ryan's wedding. Her wedding was at beautiful Log Haven, and Lindy just looked stunning. I'm so happy that my childhood friend was able to find her soulmate. It was so good to see Jessica and her sweet little girl Ara.

It's been awhile...

It's definitely been a while since I last posted. Things are going pretty well. I'm busy as ever teaching summer camp and going to school. My little sister Alyx moved in a few weeks ago, and it's going great. She is outdoors all day in the hot sun, and she's always just so beat when we get home. She's not used to working all day, and I think the camp is working her hard!

I restarted my exercise routine. I had to take a break when I had the lung clot because it hurt to much to breathe heavily. Then I got a horrible cold which lingered on for weeks. But, now I'm happy to say that I'm feeling much better and have restarted the exercise. I plan on working out at my work's fitness center Monday-Friday while I'm waiting for Alyx to finish camp. I've lost 45 pounds so far (woo-hoo!) but dread the thought of hanging on to the remainder. I feel like I've been wearing my current size for months. So, I'm stepping it up a notch!

In the meantime, I feel like I haven't seen close friends in a while. Give me a call, I'd love to do something!

Tikkum Olam!

This is the hebrew phrase that means "Heal the World." This is the JCC's summer camp theme. We are focusing on being green this summer. We are teaching the children to recycle and use less resources. We are also focusing on healing the world through our friendships and kindness to others. I think this is a great concept. What are you doing to heal the world?

Another Update

I have another exciting update to share. I recently changed my hours at work, so now I'm working 8:00-4:00. Camp K'Ton Ton starts in the morning. I got placed with my friend Gayle at work in her preschool class. I'm very excited about our summer together! We have 12 students in our class, which is a great size because it's not too big. We were busy preparing our classroom all last week.

I'm also looking forward to my fall teaching schedule. They placed me with Pam, who was "Teacher of the Year" this past year. That was quite an honor to be placed with her, and I'm really looking forward to learning some new teaching techniques. I told her that I want to learn all I can from her.

Another update is that Alyx moves in with me on June 9th. It's only a week away, and I'm very excited! We have been getting her bedroom ready for her. She will be a Camp Counselor at the JCC's Bernie Camp.

One of my best friend's Carole-Anne is coming out for a visit tomorrow. She'll stay with me for a few days. I can't wait!

The Utah Jazz!

The Jazz had a disappointing loss last night against the Lakers. They still had an incredible season, and it was fun to watch!

Getting back to normal

Hi friends,

I just wanted to update you. I'm slowly getting back to normal. I am working a half day today. My boss just told me that some of my co-workers donated some of their sick time so that I will have a paycheck. The kindness of my co-workers brought me to tears.

I just got back from the Thrombosis clinic, and my blood levels are right where they want them. The Coumadin is working. I've had to make some changes in my diet, for instance no spinach, brusel sprouts,broccoli, green tea, grapefruit juice, or cranberry juice for me. The leafy green veggies have too much vitamin K, which makes the blood clot. The juices could increase my blood levels. I also have to avoid ibuprofen because it could cause stomach bleeding, and we don't want any internal bleeding. I have to limit alcohol consumption, but that wasn't ever an issue with me anyway.

Thanks all for your support and your phone calls!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!

I just wanted to wish my mom a very Happy Mother's Day! I know this is a day late, but I wasn't near a computer yesterday.

Mom, you have been so wonderful and loving to me and I appreciate you so much! Thank you for being so attentive when I was in the hospital. Thank you for our conversation that we had yesterday. I love talking to you.

Thank you for making Erin, Alyx, and I feel special in our own way.

I love you mom!

--Kenna.

Home Recovering

I'm finally out of the hospital (I was discharged yesterday afternoon.) I came home to Springville to my parents house to recooperate. I'm feeling much better than before. I'm still really sore, but altogether doing okay. I even got to watch the Jazz game with my parents last night. Go Jazz!!

I just had a doctor's appointment this morning to check my blood levels, and remarkably, they have gone up from a 1.6 to a 3.1 which is actually a little on the thin side, so I have to adjust my medication accordingly. I'm on two blood thinners-one that I inject into my stomach, and another that I take by pill form.

The doctors found out that I have a genetic blood clotting disorder called "Factor V Leiden." This means that my blood is just more prone to clotting and I will most likely have to be on blood thinners for the rest of my life, which is kind of a daunting thought.

I would like to thank all my wonderful friends, family, and co-workers, and parents of the children I teach who have been so wonderful. Your hospital visits and calls cheered me up and speeded up my recovery. Your magazines, books, and flowers got me through the boredom of the hospital and I'm so thankful for that.

I'm meeting with my internal medicine doctor on Monday, and a Coumadin specialist on Tuesay, so I'll keep you posted.

Thanks friends!

A hosptial stay...

Well, I'm unfortunately blogging today from my hospital bed.

It all started Monday when I felt severe pain in left side of my back and stomach. It hurt to take a deep breath. I thought I had a kidney infection or kidney stone. I decided to go to the ER where they ran 9 hours worth of tests. They ran a two CT scans, and EKG, a chest x-ray, and lots of blood work. It turns out that I have blood clots on my lungs.

I'm doing fairly well considering. I'm feeling a little better than yesterday, and my color is better. I'm off the oxygen and off of my I.V.

I'd really appreciate your prayers at this time. I'm at the U of U hospital, and am up for visitors!

Thanks friends.

Running

I went to visit my sister Erin last night. She talked me into running a 5K race with her on July 4th. I'm nervous but excited! I hope I can do it, I haven't ran in quite some time. I used to run miles and miles and actually quite enjoyed it. (I was on the Cross-Country team in high school) I figure I have 2 months to work up to it.

I think it will help me lose the rest of my weight faster. I have lost 40 pounds so far, but have hit the dreaded platuea right now.

Any advice from you runners out there?

Breathing a sigh of relief...

I'm finally done with my final exams and papers! I'm breathing a sigh of relief. I hope I did well. Keep the positive thoughts coming!

Alyx goes to Prom

My cute little sis Alyx got to go to her very first Prom tonight! She went with her friend Devin, who we all adore. She even got to Promenade, which was fun to watch. Notice the pic of her placing her cell phone in her dress. That phone is glued to her at all times! That picture is so typical Alyx.

I'm right in the middle of finals week. I promise to post something when I'm done!
Wish me luck!

Quotes of the Day

I got these quotes from my cute little sister Alyx. I'm home for the weekend and spending some time with her today.

"This is how it works:
You're young until you're not
You love until you don't
You try until you can't
You laugh until you cry
You cry until you laugh
And everyone must breathe
Until their dying breath."

"Be who you are are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter won't mind."

--Dr. Seuss.

Week of the Young Child

Governor Jon Huntsman has declared April 14-19 as "The Week of the Young Child." We are doing several special things at our center next week. One of the activities is called "Treats and Tales" a name that I came up with and won the contest for at work! Each child brings a book and a treat to share with their parents. If you have a child or relatives with children go and celebrate them next week!

Walk Now for Autism

I just signed up for the "Walk Now for Autism" on May 3rd. I am going to be doing the walk with some co-workers from the JCC. They have named our team "Autism Schmautism." Catchy huh?

Autism is a complex brain disorder that inhibits a person's ability to communicate and develop social relationships and is often accompanied by extreme behavioral challenges. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in 1 in 150 children in the United States, affecting four times as many boys as girls. The diagnosis of autism has increased tenfold in the last decade. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown.

Autism is a cause that is very close to my heart. I am a teacher, and I have seen many children suffer from this disease.

I will be donating my time and money to this event. If you'd like to walk with us, please do so! You can sign up at: http://www.walknowforautism.org/utah our team name is Autism Schmautism.

If you'd like to donate, please go to this website. http://www.walknowforautism.org/utah/personal/kenna

Thanks friends!

A carrot, an egg and a cup of coffee..

This was posted on our staff room wall. I thought it was great! I thought I'd share.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled 3 pots with water and placed each on high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first, she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes, she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.

Turning to her daughter, she asks. "Tell me what you see."
"Carrots, eggs, and coffee." she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg.

Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled, as she tasted the rich aroma. The daugther then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" She asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a break-up, a financial hardship, or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot very, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gts hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level??

How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?

May you have enough happiness to keep you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human, and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

New Haircut!

I did it! Bethany cut 3 inches off last night! New and fresh for spring.

Soy Chai Lattes

I was observing two little girls playing in the housekeeping area of the classroom the other day. They were playing with a teakettle and cups. I was assuming they were serving each other hot chocolate. I went over and listened in. Come to find out they were enjoying "soy chai lattes!" Classic.

QOD

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder."

Let's Take a Vote

My bff Mary took me to see the movie "27 Dresses" with Katherine Heigl on my birthday back in January. Well, I loved her haircut in this movie. I think it is darling on her. After the movie, I cut two inches off of my hair, but I didn't dare cut much more than that. I am going in to get my hair highlighted tomorrow night. Should I just cut the normal half inch, or should I be drastic and get a cute haircut like Katherine's? Would a haircut like this be cute on me? Post your votes!

I'm leaning toward a new haircut because my hair is very long and thick. It takes a very long time to blowdry in the morning. Lately I do it in the same three ways, and it's not looking so cute these days. I'm really bored with it, and end up doing it in a messy bun or pony tail half the time. I think I could have fun with a haircut like this, and it could look professional for work.

Let me know what you think!! Should I keep my hair long, or cut it?

A disgusting day at the J...

So, it has been a disgusting day at the J. Last week we found out the we have an infestation of head lice in the Early Childhood Center. We had to send 3 children home. Today 6 more children were sent home. It just keeps spreading, and it is not contained to one classroom. All of the staff are horribly disgusted and fearful that we too might get this nasty little parasite! We have all worn our hair up in buns, and been quite diligent at cleaning our classrooms. We've had to bag up all the dramatic play costumes, and housekeeping couches and props for the next ten days to hopefully kill it. The bikes had to be taken away on the playground because the children cannot wear the helmets.

I went out and bought special tea tree oil that I brush through my hair each day that is supposedly a preventative measure. (the tea tree oil shampoo was sold out, as each staff member and parent has stocked up)I also heard that lice like clean hair, so I've been using lots of product. Wish me luck as I do not want lice!

On a much happier note, the pool is being filled today! Summer is just around the corner!

Happy Easter!

Happy Easter!

"Praise be to the God and Father our Lord Jesus Christ into a living hope through the resurection of Jesus Christ from the dead into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade-kept in heaven for you who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvaton that is to be revealed in the last time."

1 Peter 3-6.

I hope you all had a joyous day with family and friends!

Happy First Day of Spring!!

Spring is in the air today!!

Welcome to the first day of my very favorite season!! I love everything about this season! I adore spring clothing, especially the bright colors, flip flops, and capri pants. I enjoy brightly painted toenails. I like patio dining and driving with the sunroof open. I love all flowers, but pink tulips are my favorite flower and I love seeing them in bloom.

This week I had a hey day with spring projects for my preschoolers. We made "popcorn popping on the apricot tree" and sang the song to go along. We made pussy willow trees out of q-tips, and today we are making flowers out of brightly colored tissue paper. Then the children can give the flowers to their moms.

On a very happy note, I just found out that my dear cousin Ashley just gave birth yesterday to a healthy baby boy Aaron Matthew. Congratulations! I'm so happy for
their little family.

Things I'm Grateful For Today

Things I am Grateful For Today:

Sweet Sweet Sunshine!

Spring is in the Air! We are finally able to take our children outside to the playground and they so need it. All the teachers and children have been so tired of the large motor room. I actually had a child say "I'm hot." today. Oh, that is music to my ears!

Anti-biotics: After being sick for 3 weeks with a horrible cough, I finally went to the doctor. Turns out I had bronchitis. The anti-biotics and inhaler fixed me up in a week and now I feel like a new person.


A tutor aka my brother in law Joe. He helped me do well on my economics homework assignment and helped me prepare for my test that I will have next week. I couldn't have done it without him. Thanks Joe!

Prayer. I am a firm believer in Prayer. I think that any issue we are having in our lives we just need to intrust in a Higher Power. I am so grateful for this each and everyday.

Bright colors. I was feeling a little drab this morning, so I put on a bright orange and purple shirt, some lipgloss and feel like a whole new person!

Friends. Mary, my bff, I love you so. I don't know what I'd do without you. Crystal, thanks for reading astrology and being a dork with me last night! I'm also so grateful for my new little group of friends I've made at K2, we've had such fun together.

Family. I love you so. You are my rock.

Dogs. Huhni and Luhki, you brighten my day. Abby, I love your little grunts! I love to go love on her whenever I visit Mary and Kris. Apparently I am her favorite too. She always ends up in my lap.

The mouths of little people. According to one of my favorite students Isabel, I am her best friend forever. She invited me to go to Disneyland with her tomorrow. I am packing my bags! :)

The ABC'S of Me.

Monday, March 10, 2008

The ABC's of Me
(I'm jumping on the bandwagon...)
A - AUTHOR? Anita Schreve. Children's Author: Judith Viorst.


B - BEVERAGE? Ice Water.
C - COLOR? Red.
D - DOG OR CAT? Terrier dogs. I currently am obsessed with Sealyhan terriers. I so want one.
E - ESSENTIAL ELECTRONIC? My laptop
F - FRUITS OR VEGGIES? Both
G - GAME? Phase Ten and Yahtzee
H - HOME STATE? Utah
I - INDULGENCE? My mom's trifle
J - JANUARY OR JULY? hmm, both... January for my birthday, and July for my all time favorite holiday.
K - KIDS? 14 right now although none are biologicially mine
L - LIFE AMBITION? Travel across America. I'd like to see all the states. Thanks to my parents, I've seen many of them.
M - MIDDLE NAME? Jean
N - NUMBER OF SIBLINGS? 2 beautiful sisters
O - OCD TRAITS? None, I tend to gear more toward the pack-rat side!
P - PHOBIA OR FEAR? I am very afraid of deep water. I could not swim to save my life.
Q - QUOTE? I love quotes! There are so many favorites I don't think I could just choose one Here's my quote of the day: "A teacher's purpose is not to create students in his own image, but to develop students who can create their own image. " ~Author Unknown
R - RETAIL ESTABLISHMENT? The Gap, Ann Taylor Loft, I'm also a huge fan of bargain shopping so I adore consignment shops as well namely my mom's The Wandering Wardrobe, and my aunt Nanci's Easy Street.


S - SURGERY? Gallbladder
T - TIME OF YEAR? Spring! I adore everything about it. The tulips, capri pants, flip flops, pastel colors, Easter, drving with the sunroof down, patio dining, you name it! I also enjoy fall.
U - UNUSUAL SKILL? I'm a very fast typist. I'm not sure if that's unusual.
V - VEHICLE I DRIVE? Nissan Maxima
W - WORST HABIT? Procrastination, among others
X - X-RAYS? uh, yes
Y - YEARS OLD? 25
Z - ZODIAC? Aquarius

Oh Happy Day!

Anyone of you who is a good friend of mine, knows that my dear little sis Alyx was a counselor-in training last summer at the JCC. She was living with my sister Erin and her husband Joe last summer. I would pick her up everyday and take her to camp as I would go to work, and then take her home in the afternoon. As it turns out, this summer she gets to live with me!!! I am so thrilled about this new turn of events! Alyx has the wonderful opportunity to be an actual camp counselor this summer. I am currently living with my good friend Crystal and we just happen to have a third bedroom. We worked out all the logistics, and Alyx will be moving in around the first on June. I'm really looking forward to spending some quality time with my sister and just doing basic things like making dinner together,taking walks, and spending time at the pool after work and camp. Plus, Alyx is going to teach me to swim! Yes...I don't know how to swim. I'm terrified of deep water. I have been ever since I was a little girl and played with cups in the pool instead of payed attention to my swim lessons. Both of my sisters are beautiful swimmers, and were both on the swim team. I'm a little anxious to learn, but there's always a first time for everything.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!

I hope you are all having a great day and wearing green!! I am a lover of all holidays, and definitely get into the spirit of this one. I wish we could celebrate this holiday at work. As a preschool teacher, I keep thinking of all the amazing green art projects I could create with my children! There are so many fun story books I could read to my class too. We don't celebrate St. Patrick's Day at the JCC. We didn't celebrate Valentine's Day or Halloween either. It was hard for me at first, but now I have gotten mostly used to it. We only celebrate Jewish holidays here.

We are in the middle of celebrating Purim, which has been fun. Purim is the joyous holiday of the miraculous escape of the Jews from annihalation some 2,400 years ago in Persia. We had a Purim Carnival yesterday that I volunteered at, and all of the kids came in fun costumes and went on a treasure hunt.

Tiggity Tag!

Saturday March 15, 2008

TiGGiTY TaG
5 things I was doing 10 years ago:One Trying out for drill team. I made it! Some of the most fun years of my life. Two. Enjoying high school. Three. Getting way excited get my drivers license. Four. Hanging out at Lindy and Crystal's houses. Five. Playing the piano everyday, I was getting pretty good at this point.

5 things I was doing 5 years ago:One. Still working on my degree. Two. Working at Bath and Body Works. Three. Rooming with sweet Mary in the KKG house. We had such fun together!! Best friends to this day! Four. When I knew I wanted to become a teacher. Five. Got really involved in Kappa.

5 snacks I enjoy: One. Green apples. Two. String cheese. Three. Goldfish crackers. Four. Weight watchers fudgesicles(only 1 point!) Five. Yogurt.

5 things I did yesterday: One: Taught preschool. The kids dressed up in Hawaiian gear from the beach prop box and were loving every minute of it. Two. Took a quiz. Three. Made yummy chicken and a spinach and tomato salad. Four. Went grocery shopping. Five. Read.

5 jobs I've had:One. My first job was a runner at a law firm. Two: Clerk at the Wandering Wardrobe for my dear mom. Loved it! Three: Playground monitor and After school teacher at Rowland Hall St. Marks School. Four. Director of Hourly Care at the Jewish Community Center. Five. Preschool Teacher at the Jewish Community Center.

5 things I would do if i had a million dollars: One. Build a house. Two. Take my family to the beach. Three. Travel, travel. Four. Pay my parents back for my college education. Five. Write a children's book.

5 things I hate doing:One. moving. Two. Blow drying my hair. Three. Cleaning the toilet. Four. Driving in rush hour traffic. Five. Listening to stupid people.

5 biggest joys of the moment. One. My family and sweet Huhni and Luhki. (pictures to be posted later.) Two. My dear friends. Three. K2 the church. It has blessed my life immensely. Four. Weight Watchers. 34 pounds lost to date!!! Five. Sweet sweet sunshine. (although it is currently a blizzard outside!)

Tagged: Mary, Jess, and Alice and whoever wants to play!

New to the blogging world!

Hi friends and family! I'm new to the blogging world! I just thought I'd give it a shot. Many of my friends have their own blogs, and it's so fun to read them and stay in touch. I hope to post on here as often as I can.