Carrie and Jon

Halloween

2011-11-03T21:34:00.001-07:00

We had a blast this Halloween! The girls both dressed up like Minnie Mouse... they were adorable!

While I was making Kate's tutu I couldn't get her out of it, but on Halloween night she wanted nothing to do with dressing up! Emma on the other hand loved her costume... sucking on Minnie's bow kept her perfectly happy!

We finally convinced Kate to put her costume on and off we went trick-or-treating. Emma was happy, as usual, Kate was having a great time but wanted to stop and eat her candy after each house. After about 10 houses she was done and wanted to come home- which was fine with us because we were not looking forward to the sugar overload. We finished the night off by going up to Grandma and Grandpa's house for some yummy chili!

Emma's Blessing

2011-06-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

It was Emma's Big Day on Sunday! She got blessed by her Daddy. He gave her a beautiful blessing... for the part I heard (Kate was frantically searching through our church bag for water during the blessing).
It was so fun to get her all dressed up in her beautiful dress! After her blessing we went to Jensen Park and had brunch. It was great to spend the day with our families. Jon and I have been blessed to have such great families who support our little family in everything we do!

"Momma, Dada I want temple"

2011-03-29T14:02:00.000-07:00

These were some of Kate's first words when she woke up on Saturday morning. As her father it was music to my ears. So what do you do when you live in Utah and your daughter request to see the temple? Of course you take her to see your Family's temple.

Carrie and I figured it would be great to take her to the Ogden Temple since it will be closed down for remolding for a while. Since it was a bit chilly Carrie and Emma stayed in the car while our Niece and I took Kate around the temple grounds. We got some pretty cute pictures of Kate.

I only hope in 20 years Kate is still saying "Momma, Dada I want temple".

adorable...

2011-03-16T09:30:00.001-07:00

Emma is such an adorable little baby. We are loving every moment with her!

Our Girls

2011-03-03T05:14:00.000-08:00

We are the luckiest Mommy and Daddy... we have two darling little girls! Kate is already loving being a big sister.

Emma Rae Hendricks

2011-03-02T13:20:00.001-08:00

9 Months

2011-02-25T14:54:00.001-08:00

So my fun sister wanted to come take some pictures of this HUGE belly I've been supporting for the last few months. The last 9 months have flown by, but I think I just might go crazy waiting these last few weeks! I apparently am not a good waiter:)
I have LOVED being pregnant, and am so thankful that I have had this opportunity.

Pure Love

2010-09-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I was having one of those days. I was feeling sick, inadequate, and all around just crappy.

I sat down in the rocking chair and had a good hard cry.

Kate walked up to me, reached up for my face, and wiped away my tears with her little hands.

Then she climbed up on my lap and hugged me as she patted my back.

She is a perfect reminder to me of the pure love that our Heavenly Father has for each of us.

I am so thankful for my little Kate.

Kate's Big Surprise...

2010-09-01T08:58:00.000-07:00

In March Kate is going to become a BIG SISTER!!! We are ALL so excited...
When Kate turned one, we started filling out our paperwork for adoption. After much prayer and fasting we received the answer that I needed to pay closer attention to my food allergies. I stopped eating the foods that I am allergic to, including my FAVORITE BREAD. Although it was hard, it only took a few months to get out of my body, and we were pregnant!
We feel so blessed to have our darling Kate, we know that we needed her to be part of our family. We also feel so blessed to be experiencing the whole pregnancy thing! Yay for miracles!!!

this girl...

2010-07-21T08:34:00.000-07:00

I love this girl...

she makes everyday so much fun!

The Attack of the Purple Ape

2010-07-12T11:17:00.001-07:00

When I was younger, Santa brought me a giant purple ape. I loved this purple ape... he was fluffy and cute!
Over the years, I have kept some of my toys from when I was little, and yes, I kept the purple ape.
Last year I decided it was time to get rid of some of my toys, so Mr. Purple Ape was put in a yard sale.
When my nephew saw the purple ape, he ran up, grabbed it and said, "I totally have to have this!"
So, I gave him my purple ape.
This year, we were getting ready for another yard sale. We were at my brother's house visiting, and he said that he had something to donate to our yard sale. He brought out the purple ape. I tried to talk him into keeping it, but alas, it came home with us and was again put in the yard sale.
To my surprise, the purple ape didn't sale at the yard sale. Jon thought it would be funny to give it back to my brother... in a little more creative way. He got our the duck tape, and attached the purple ape to my brother's work van.
My brother found the purple ape, removed him, and thought it would be funny to give him back to us in a MORE creative way.

Sunday morning we walked out and found the Purple Ape attached to our satellite on top of our house...

Needless to say we laughed super hard, then went to work planning the next attack of the purple ape!!!

My Daddy

2010-06-18T10:14:00.000-07:00

This past week I've thought a lot about my Dad and all of the amazing things he has taught me throughout my life.
I read once that you can tell a man's true character by the way he handles a trial. Throughout all of my Dad's sicknesses and health issues, he has never questioned why-he has such faith! And although he is sick a lot and tired all the time- the thing that he hates most is not seeing his kids each and every day. He still goes to baseball and soccer games, even though he has to sit in the car. He still attends school performances, even though he has to mask up before and scrub down afterwards. He continues to teach me that family is everything!
Yesterday, he found out that he has to do another round of chemo, another stem cell transplant, another few weeks in the hospital... the discouraging thing about this process is that they basically have to kill you to keep you alive. My Dad is strong- the cancer might make him sick- but he has taught me that it can't effect his love nor his faith.
I don't think my Dad will ever know the love and admiration I have for him. He is my my hero, my biggest fan, and the best Daddy I could have ever asked for.

Basement

2010-06-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

We finally finished our basement last month! We are loving spending time down there. We did a lot of it ourselves, so it took a little longer but it was worth the wait!

I did the paint, and Jon built the cabinets next to the fireplace and all of the shelves in the closets. We framed and did a few other things ourselves too.
I have loved decorating it!!! Here a a few things that I have put up downstairs. I love the family wall, it's my favorite!

This is a picture of Sylvia's hands with Kate. It's the only time she was able to hold her- we cherish that moment so much!

We even have a spare bedroom with lots of extra space, and a craft room for ME!!!

Kate has her very own toy area, she is in heaven!

Yay for extra space!

Bald?

2010-05-06T22:08:00.000-07:00

My dad started his chemo treatments today. Last night we got together and Jon gave my dad a beautiful blessing. Before the blessing the boys decided to shave their heads to show Grandpa how much they love him. So, all the boys in our family are bald... or at least have really short hair. When I asked one of my nephews what he was going to tell his friends he said, "I'll tell them that I love my grandpa and he has to go through cancer so I shaved my head to support him!" I love my family!!!

i am a mother...

2010-04-25T20:08:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks I have thought a lot about being a mother. I became a mother because of the incredible love of another mother. Each day as I hold Kate I am reminded of the love that made it possible for me to become a mother. For a long time I didn't think I would ever have the blessing of being a mother... but I do, and I cherish every moment!

You are the poem I dreamed of writing,

the masterpiece I longed to paint.

You are the shining star I reached for in my ever hopeful quest for life fulfilled.

You are my child.

Now with all things I am blessed.

One Year?

2010-04-16T13:44:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Kate is already one! She is the best little thing...
Recently she has found the dishcloth drawer and the tampon drawer! This morning she realised that the toilet paper actually comes off the roll! She also learned that it is so fun to rip into little pieces!

Life with her is full of excitement! We love her so much...

i'm loving this...

2010-03-25T10:48:00.000-07:00

Jon is such a good Daddy, and Kate adores him. All day, everyday, Kate walks around saying, "Da-da, Da-da..."
I love listening to them play as Jon gets Kate in the bathtub. I love listening as they giggle while Jon chases Kate down the hall. I love watching Kate cuddle with him as he rocks her to sleep.
I'm loving this man and our little Kate!

11 months...

2010-03-09T15:53:00.000-08:00

She's everywhere!

2010-02-25T21:09:00.001-08:00

Kate is EVERYWHERE!!!!! She has found a new love for her closet, the Tupperware drawer, my recipe drawer, my sock drawer, the bathroom, the heat vents, the front door, under the table..... the list could go on and on.
So, by the end of the day I am exhausted from chasing her around, trying to work, and trying to keep our house somewhat clean.
Even though I go to bed exhausted each night... I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. This mommy thing is better than I ever imagined!

Grandmpa Stoker

2010-02-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

This is my dad and Kate's buddy known as Grandpa Stoker.
He is a fighter... and a survivor.
He has survived 2 failed kidneys,
one kidney transplant,
one heart attack,
one stroke,
one arm cut off...the list could go on and on and on.
Earlier this month he was diagnosed with Cancer. The treatment consists of a stem cell transplant and kemo. He and my mom have to be isolated for a month or more while he is going through his treatment.
To most grandparents this wouldn't be such a big deal. But my parents see their kids and grandkids nearly everyday. We are setting up blogs and learning how to do the web cam thing so that we can still see each other each day.
The doctors warned my parents that the treatments will be really rough on my dad's body. But what the doctors don't know is he is a fighter and a survivor.
Today is Grandpa Stoker's birthday. I feel so blessed to have him as my dad, and that Kate has him as her grandpa and buddy. He is the most unselfish person. He is always doing things for everyone else, especially his kids and grandkids.
When I was little I thought my dad could do anything because he was my hero. Now that I'm older, I still think that my dad can do anything... and he's still my hero.
My Dad
..Kate's buddy
...a fighter
....a survivor.
That's Grandpa Stoker!!

Kate's New Love...

2010-02-11T10:11:00.000-08:00

Kate loves books! YAY!!!

And...she also loves the dishwasher...

Infertility...

2010-02-05T15:57:00.000-08:00

Last night we were reading scriptures as a family. Jon was reading, and I was trying to entertain Kate. She was board with her toys, her books, and her Mommy- all she wanted were my scriptures. I grabbed a stray paper out of my scriptures; she crumpled, chewed, and ripped the paper, then got board with it too so she gave it back. Afterwards as I was cleaning up, I looked at the paper that she had been playing with. It was a note that I had written on a few years back. It told of an experience that I had one Sunday in Relief Society. I remember that Sunday so well. It was the Sunday that I cried the entire time during Relief Society, the Sunday that I came home and bawled like a baby, the Sunday that I truly realized that Infertility Sucks!
That Sunday the lesson was on Motherhood. I always cringed when the lessons were on motherhood, but I always tried to think of my wonderful mom, and it made it much better- not this Sunday though.
This time the teacher started out by saying, "raise you hand when I say a group that you are a part of..." she then proceeded to say "who is expecting a baby, who has young children, who has children at home, who has older children..." and so on. Every person in the room raised their hand BUT ME! She went on with her lesson explaining that all of us are mothers. I'm sure that she made the point that even if we don't have children, we are still examples to other children. But I didn't hear that.
...I felt like there was a spotlight on my head.
...I felt like someone just slapped me and reminded me that I wasn't a mother!
The sweet teacher was just trying to have a good introduction to her lesson. But it made me hurt more than anything. Instead of listening to the rest of the lesson, I sat and cried. As I cried I wrote my thoughts on this little slip of paper.
That day was one of many that I cried. I cried because my arms were empty, I cried because I was sure that I wasn't good enough, that's why Heavenly Father wouldn't let me be a mother. I cried because I thought that I didn't have enough faith, and that's why I wasn't able to have children.
Now that I can look back, I understand why I have to struggle with infertility. It's still not easy... but I would do it over again and again for my little Kate.
Last night as I read that little slip of paper, I was so thankful that I am a mother. I was so thankful that I have a beautiful little girl who was placed in my arms because of the selflessness of her birthmother.
Infertility is something that I would not wish on anyone. But because of infertility I have Kate... and that makes if all worth it!

Baking with Mama...

2010-01-23T09:39:00.000-08:00

When I was younger I loved baking with my Mom and my Grandma Rasmussen. I still love baking, and I love that Kate enjoys it so much already. She gets so excited when the mixer starts going! She usually kicks her little legs and says, "Mama, Mama..."

We were baking bread the other day, I had given her the measuring cup that I used with flour to play with. I went to give her a measuring spoon when I noticed that she had flour EVERYWHERE!!! She is such a funny girl.

Free Canvas Picture

2010-01-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

So, I've been wanting to get some of our pictures printed on canvas for our basement, but canvas printing is blasted expensive. I found this late last night and thought I'd pass it on.
Go to canvaspeople.com and you can order a free 8X10 canvas print. You have to pay shipping, but it's a ton cheaper than paying for the canvas.
Yay for free things!!!

Sister...

2010-01-14T06:10:00.000-08:00

This is my cute, but really crazy, much older sister! She is really the best sister that anyone could ask for. She is always the person that I can count on and when I talk to her, I always feel better afterwards.
When I was working, she would come help me in my classroom and bring me cokes! Now that we both have kids, we get to hang out a lot. (Well, when all of our kids are well that is) It is so fun to spend time with her. I love her more than she'll ever know. She is such a great mom, an amazing sister, and the greatest friend!
I love you sis... Happy Birthday!

2009

2010-01-03T20:06:00.000-08:00

Our year in fast forward...
January- We were contacted by Shaina and another birth mother. We were SO excited!

February- We tried to keep busy... to keep our minds occupied. We started our basement to keep busy.

March- Almost went crazy waiting...we didn't take any pictures.

April- Kate was born. Shaina took her home. We cried, fasted, prayed, and went to the temple a lot that month.

May- Kate was placed with us. We found out that Mom Hendricks had only a few months to live. We adopted Kate! Mom Hendricks only lived 3 weeks. She passed away on the 31 of this month.

June- Enjoyed every minute with Kate!

July- Camped as a family!

August- Still loved every minute with Kate! She saw her first fireworks show!

September- Kate went on her first 4-wheeler ride.

October- We left Kate with Grandma and Grandpa for a long time while we went to a BYU game. Kate loved hanging out with Grandma and Grandpa.

November- We became a FOREVER FAMILY!

December- Loved celebrating Christmas as a family!

Merry Christmas

2009-12-22T13:38:00.000-08:00

2009-12-17T15:30:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

We love you mom and dad!!!

My baby is growing up...

2009-12-10T18:29:00.000-08:00

Kate is already 8 months old. Wow! I can't believe how big she is. She is the best little girl ever!

Do it yourself?

2009-12-06T20:00:00.000-08:00

So, we are kind of the 'Do it yourselfers'. I figure that if I can save a buck or two, it's totally worth my time.
We've been working on our basement for a few months now. We're onto painting. We got a few bids for paint, but I figured I could do it and save some money. So I did...

After looking like this for almost a week straight I'm wondering if it's worth it. When I'm finished and I have extra money in the bank because I did it myself, I'm sure I'll say it was totally worth it. But for now...I'm just not sure.

Forever...

2009-11-21T23:07:00.000-08:00

Forever...that's a beautiful word!

Today we went to the temple to be sealed as an eternal family. We got up extra early to be sure that we had everything ready. Kate was absolutely perfect! She slept on the way to the temple, she played with the little ladies in the nursery, and she left her bow on the entire time!!! When they brought her up to the sealing room she looked like an angel.

Throughout the sealing, she was so happy. She kept looking at the sealer, then at the chandelier in the sealing room. It was as though she knew exactly what was going on.

After the sealing we went to our church where Jon gave Kate her blessing, then we had a luncheon. Jon did a beautiful job on the blessing.

In the blessing he told Kate that the adversary has worked extra hard to not let her be part of our ETERNAL family. He told her that our Savior made it possible for us to be an ETERNAL family, because with the Savior all things are possible.

After thinking about those words, I've decided that that sums up my testimony... with the Savior ALL things are possible!

I'm eternally grateful that He made it possible for us to be an eternal family. I know that if we live worthy, we can be TOGETHER FOREVER!

My brain... have you seen it?

2009-11-19T11:36:00.000-08:00

I've lost my brain... have you seen it?

Last month I got my bill from questar gas. It said that I was late on my payment. If there's one think I'm kind of a fanatic about, it's paying my bills on time!

So, I called them. They had not received my payment. I looked into it, and it hadn't come through my account, so I repaid it.

This month, I received my bill, and it said I was late again. But, it said they didn't receive my last 2 months payments.

For, sure there was a problem.

So, again, I called them. I told the nice lady on the phone that I knew that I had paid my bill. I jumped online to my bill pay, and I said, "I'm looking right at my bill pay from my bank. I paid it on November 6 and also on October 5. There must be something wrong with your system because I am paying my bills!" At this point I was a little ticked. Then, I looked over on the bill pay line where it says who you paid. "Crap! I paid qwest instead of questar gas. Oops!"

We canceled our Qwest account a long time ago, and here for the past 3 months I've been paying them.

I have officially lost my mind!

It's official...We're a Family!

2009-11-16T22:02:00.000-08:00

Today we were made a legal FAMILY! We went to court today. It was kind of weird, because we've been a family for more than 6 months now... but, we had to have a judge say we were a family before it became official.

Our Judge was great. When he said, "I too feel that it is in Kate's best interest to be part of your family, and for you to be her parents..." I cried!

When our caseworker explained that we were great parents, and that we've bonded with Kate perfectly... I cried!

And when I saw our amazing families and how much they love and support us... I cried! So many of our family came to support us. Grandma and Grandpa Stoker were there, Aunt Amie came, so did Aunt Rhonda with Makynzee, Wyatt, and Sidnie. Uncle Burt rearranged his whole travel schedule to be there with Aunt Charlise. Grandpa Hendricks was there(and we felt Grandma Hendricks' sweet spirit), Uncle Erin, Uncle Bill and Aunt Allyson were there too.

The whole time our attorney was questioning us, Kate was squealing with excitement. It was so cute how excited she was. In the middle of her babbling, the judge said, "it's apparent that Kate has much to say on this matter. She wants to be on the record too!"

Today was a very important step in making us an eternal family! We can't wait till Saturday!

"Where did she come from?"

2009-11-15T11:50:00.001-08:00

Today in primary, we were talking about things that we are thankful for. We sang songs, then the kids would guess what I was thankful for in the song that we sung.
We had just finished 'I love to see the Temple,' and they guessed that I was thankful for temples.

I told them about Kate, and about our very exciting week that we have coming up with taking her to the temple.

One little boy raised his hand and asked, "So, she's adopted?"
I said "yes."
Then he raised his hand again, "so, where did she come from?" He asked.
"Heaven" I responded very quickly.
"No, I mean what country did she come from?" He questioned.
"America." I told him.
"Oh, that's why she looks so familiar!" He said casually.

I was almost on the floor giggling!

The little boy who said this is one of my favorites in the neighborhood. He is a doll, and so genuine. It's awesome to live in a ward and neighborhood where people really love and care about each other!

Our Family..

2009-11-12T08:07:00.001-08:00

Amie- Thanks for the fun pictures!

7 months

2009-11-10T06:27:00.000-08:00

Kate is 7 months old already. WOW! Time has just zoomed past. She is still cute as ever! She is eating everything, she moves like crazy, and she's started to pull herself up. I'm almost crying, my baby is growing up.

We are so excited for next week. Monday we have finalization with the Judge. Then Saturday we go to the temple to be sealed as a FOREVER FAMILY!!!
I can hardly wait. But as I have learned... good things are always worth the wait!

The Miracle of Adoption

2009-11-04T20:26:00.000-08:00

November is National Adoption Month. So I decided to ponder the miracle of adoption in my life.

Many of you know our story... because I'm not one to keep my mouth shut! But what you might not know, is that we saw the hand of the Lord in our lives. He worked incredible miracles to help us become a family.

Here is our journey of miracles...
A little over 3 years ago, Jon accepted a new job working for Zions Bank. He works all the way out in West Valley. When he said yes to the job, I thought we were crazy, but it felt right, so we did it. We figured if he could carpool it would be fine. So he found a great carpool, and work was going great.

In about August of last year, Jon's carpool fell apart. He sent out an email asking if there was anyone in his building who wanted to carpool. One lady (Mashelle) responded to the email.

Last year, at about this same time. Our sweet birth mother decided that she had hid
her secret long enough, and she needed to tell her family. She told her mom that she was pregnant. They were both scared and the only solution they could think of was abortion. (Just writing that makes my insides hurt.)

Her mom came to work, (it happens to be the same building that Jon works at,) she talked to her coworkers about her dilemma, and left early to take her daughter to the abortion clinic.

On the way home, Mashelle told Jon that a lady that she works with took her daughter to have an abortion. I remember when Jon told me about that. I cried. I didn't know the girl, or her family, but I cried. I felt connected to that baby.

A week or so later, Jon called me. He said, "remember that girl who went to get the abortion that I told you about?" He then proceeded to tell me that she wasn't able to have the abortion because she was 2 days too far along.

Mashelle ended up showing our profile to her coworker. She said that she didn't know if her daughter would be interested in adoption, but she would show her.

January 4, 2009. We received an email asking if our birth mother and birth father and their families could come to our home to talk about adoption.

Over the next 4 months, our birth mother chose us, then changed her mind over 15 times. She knew that she was carrying our baby. She knew that she wanted to give her baby the kind of life she wanted. But... her family had different plans. Her family pressured her so much.

The day before the baby was born, we took our birth mother to dinner. She told us that she was for sure that she wanted to place her baby with us.

We were ecstatic! When she was born, we went to the hospital, she was our baby...

When she decided to take her home for a week, I thought that I would die.

Then the second week was even harder.

The third week I wanted to give up. But I knew that this was our baby... and I couldn't give up for her.

The forth week I almost hit my breaking point.

Thursday of that week we received a call telling us that she was definitely placing our baby with us the following day. (That same night we received word that Jon's mom was passing away. The word Emotional can't even begin to explain our joy and sorrow that we felt.)

That Friday we were on our way out the door to pick up our baby, when the phone rang. Our birth mother's father told us that we needed to take the baby home for a week, and let our birth mother have a chance to THINK.

I was so blessed that I stayed calm as I talked to him. I calmly told him that Jon and I needed to talk it over. As I hung up the phone I went frantic. Luckily enough, we called our caseworker. We asked if we could come up to the agency. So I called our birth mother's father back, and asked him to meet us up to the agency.

On the drive up, I remember telling Jon, "This is where we draw the line. I can't spend an entire week not knowing if she's going to show up at our front door and take our baby away from us..."

When we got to the agency, I was bawling, and a mess. The supervisor asked me two questions, the first was "Is this your baby?" the second question came quickly because I looked at her like 'are you stupid?" She asked, "then what are you going to do to ensure that your baby becomes part of your family?"

We brought Kate home for a week, not knowing if our birth mother would sign her rights away or not. She relinquished her rights on May 15, 2009. Exactly a week after Kate had been placed with us.

As I look back on our journey, I can see that we were carried through it all.

From the smallest details of Jon working at the same place as our birth mother's mom. To the biggest details of our birth mother being too far along to do an abortion. We saw the hand of the Lord. He helped make us a family...

I am forever grateful for the miracle of adoption, for my miracle I call Kate.

Haloween

2009-10-30T06:27:00.000-07:00

A few months ago my sister came to my house with some red and black tights that she had bought for our girls. She had this grand idea to make costumes for them for Halloween.
At first I wasn't too thrilled- but as we started making them, I was way excited.
My sister is a creative genius! And together we are unstoppable!

Together we came up with the entire outfit...
I think our girls look pretty darn cute!

Happy Halloween:)

Idaho

2009-10-13T14:45:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to Idaho. We go each year at this time to get potatoes. We started this tradition when we were first married. We usually go up to Jon's parent's home, then go and get them with his mom and dad. Well, this year we were on our own. This has been the first big tradition where Sylvia, Jon's mom, hasn't been with us. We really missed her. I never realized how much she did for this little tradition...
We knew that it would be a little tricky with just Jon and I getting the potatoes, and having Kate, so we asked 2 of our nephews to go with us.

We spent the night at my aunt's home, went to Bear World, then went and got potatoes. We had a really great time.
Kate hated her hat... But she had fun kicking and playing with her cousins!

Pooh Inititative

2009-10-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

There's a book called the Pooh Initiative. It talks about people, who when there is a problem do one of many things. Some just ignore it, or talk about it but do nothing, or call someone else to fix the problem. But there are a few that have the initiative to do something themselves!

Last night our backyard, down two houses, neighbor's dogs were barking. The neighbor's work all night and leave their dogs outside to sleep. Our house is perfectly positioned so we hear them REALLY good! They barked from about 12:00-3:00 am. I was going crazy! I was thinking..."I could get a gun..." At 3:00 Jon got up and said, "I'm going to go give those dogs a treat." I was thinking..."we could poison the treat... !"

So, Jon went and got 2 dog bones; drove around the block, talked to the officer who was there, (apparently one of our neighbors is the 'call someone else to fix the problem' kind of person), gave the dogs the bones, then drove home.

By the time he got back in bed the dogs were happily chewing quietly.

We're so glad that our Daddy has the initiative to do something when there is a problem:)

That's just one of the many reasons we love him!

Happy 5 years love!

2009-09-30T20:53:00.000-07:00

I love you Jonny Boy! Happy Anniversary. Thanks for being my best friend...

Not the brightest crayon...

2009-09-28T15:05:00.000-07:00

I sometimes tease Jon when he does something silly, telling him that he is 'Not the Brightest Crayon in the Box!'

Well, yesterday I did something that was truly 'not the brightest' thing to do.

Do you ever do something, then right after after you do it you think, "that was the stupidest thing I've ever done"?

Yesterday I was preparing for a meeting that is held here at our home. I was putting away the iron. I had Kate in one hand, and was attempting to wrap the cord around the iron with the other hand.
I was afraid of the iron touching Kate if it was still hot. So, because my hands were full I reached down and checked the temperature of the iron with my LIPS.

IT WAS STILL HOT!!!

Ouch... yea, stupid I know. So needless to say, I am applying lots of glossy lip balm!

Up in the night...

2009-09-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

Kate is an awesome sleeper! She always sleeps at least 8 hours, sometimes more. Last night she went down for a little cat-nap after dinner. When we tried to wake her up, she was dead to the world. She finally woke up at 10:30, and wanted to eat. So we got her ready for bed and fed her. I sent Jon to bed, and I sat and rocked my baby. After just a minute or two, she fell asleep, but I decided that I wanted to enjoy the moment.
As I was rocking my little Kate, I remembered the pain and emptiness that I felt for those years while we tried to have children. I thought of all of the sleepless nights prior to having a baby. I remembered so many nights when I would wake up bawling, wondering what was wrong with me. I remember sitting in Kate's room, before it was her room, wondering if my empty arms would ever be filled.
Sitting there last night, I felt so privileged to be Kate's mom. It reminded me of one of my favorite quotes...
"Everywhere in nature we are taught the lessons of patience and waiting. We want things a long time before we get them, and the fact that we want them a long time makes them all the more precious when they come."
~Joseph F. Smith

I love Daddy!

2009-08-29T21:14:00.000-07:00

This girl loves her Daddy!

Friday, Jon took us out. We went and got some chicken, then went to a fabulous park in Fruit Heights. We had a great time being together as a family. Kate had a ton of fun playing with her Daddy, and watching all of the other kids playing.

Thank you Grandmas

2009-08-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Kate has a new blankie.
It has twice the love- it's twice as good- because it was made by both of her grandmas.

As we were going through Sylvia's things. We found some things that she had bought for Kate. We found some clothes and some blankets that she intended on making, but she got too sick to start them.
One of the blankets was a little princess one. I brought it home and asked my mom to finish it for Sylvia so we could give it to Kate.

We are so lucky to have such wonderful mothers. And Kate is so lucky to have such amazing grandmothers. It's a blessing that we live so close to my mom that Kate is able to spend so much time with her. It's also a blessing that we are able to feel Sylvia's sweet spirit so often.

We love you grandmas!

Our little girl is growing up...

2009-08-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

Our little baby is growing so fast! We had her 4 month appointment today. She is now 16 pounds and 26 inches long.
Each month we take her picture next to a little bear. (We gave her birthmom a bear just like Kate's.) Then we post her picture on her blog. That way, her birthmom can look and really see how much she's grown.
As I posted her 4 month picture I wanted to cry, because she's growing so fast.
1 month

2 months

3 months

4 months

Basement and Kate

2009-07-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

Earlier this year, we decided that we needed a project to keep our minds occupied so that we didn't go crazy thinking about Kate (before she was born). So we started working on finishing our basement. We worked here and there, and made slow progress. We decided to do as much of it ourselves to cut the cost, so it's been a little slow! I'm so excited that we finally had drywall hung! It actually looks like a house, instead of a cement blah!
Hopefully, we'll be done with it by September or October.

Oh, and here are some cute pictures of our darling Kate...she's the cutest thing ever!

Girls!

2009-07-09T11:25:00.000-07:00

When I was little, my mom and her little sister would get together almost daily; they would clean, do laundry, and chat. While us kids played. We would always go and get candy bars, Slurpee's, and cokes. I loved hanging out with my cousins.
When my sister told me that she was pregnant, she said, "it will be so fun for us to sit and hang out with our little girls, just like mom and Aunt Chris did." At the time I thought that having kids would never happen for me, so I said, "yea, that's a nice dream."
Well, it has been a blast having little girls at the same time. My sister is an awesome mom, so it's been great for me to learn from her.

Yesterday we got together and took the girls' pictures. Then we spent the rest of the afternoon chatting, eating, and drinking our cokes!
The girls were great while we took their pictures. At one point, Kate leaned over and started chomping on Abbie's little hand!

I'm so glad that Kate has a cousin her same age- they are going to be best friends! I absolutely love sharing this fun time in my life with one of my best friends, my sister!

Our Birthmom

2009-07-03T06:15:00.000-07:00

Last night we had our first meeting with our birthmother, Shaina, since placement. We were so excited to see her. We absolutely LOVE our birthmom. She is such a great young woman. We met at Cafe Rio and ate and talked for about 2 hours.
When we walked in, Shaina came walking up to us and gave us both a huge hug. Then we showed her Kate and she held her for a long time. It was so fun to see the happiness in Shaina's eyes. While we were talking with her, I mentioned that she looks so good, she looks so happy. She told me that she is happy, and that she knows that she made the right decision placing Kate with us.
Shaina is amazing. She sacrificed so much because she loves Kate. We are so blessed because of that decision.
During her pregnancy, she took such great care of Kate; and the first month of her life, she took such great care of her too.
It was so good for us to she Shaina, and to see her happiness. While she was holding Kate, you could just see the love that she has for her. We are so blessed that she loved Kate so much, that she was willing to give her the life that she wanted her to have. I feel so overwhelmed to know that Shaina chose us! She chose us to be the parents of her baby. She chose me to be Kate's mom- because she trusts us to teach her and love her.
It is such a blessing for us to have such an unselfish friend! We love you Shaina...

Being a Mom

2009-07-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

So, being Kate's mom is the best! She is such an amazing little girl. We absolutly adore her.
Because I am having so much fun being a mom, we decided that I would stay home next year. So I quit my job, and I am currently hoping to find a job that I'll be able to do from home.
It was a lot harder to quit than I had imagined. I love teaching- so it was really hard to give it up. It was hard to write my letter of resignation, to clean out my classroom, and to put all of my cute teacher stuff in storage for right now. But, I know that it's totally worth it!
I am so thankful for our little miracle we call Kate. She has blessed our lives so much! Every time I look at her, I feel so blessed to be her mom.

Cute Abbie

2009-06-17T17:32:00.000-07:00

My sister had her baby this morning. She is such a darling little girl. Each time I would talk to Kate about Abbie, she would get a huge grin on her face. I think they're going to be pals!

Obituary

2009-06-03T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sylvia Hatch Hendricks loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend returned to her Heavenly Father after her battle with cancer May 31, 2009, at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City.

She was born May 13, 1940, to William Ray and Beulah Taggart Hatch in Idaho Falls, Idaho. Sylvia grew up on a farm in the outskirts of Idaho Falls. Her father called her his favorite tractor driver. On the farm, she learned to work hard, be humble and to serve others. She implemented those values throughout her life by quietly going about and doing good.

Our mother had the great and rare opportunity to travel and live abroad because of her father's employment in the U.S. embassies. She lived five years in Terhan, Iran, and graduated high school there. She loved to travel and appreciate the beauties of the world.

After her stay in Iran, she continued her education at Brigham Young University and graduated in nutrition science, and she completed dietician training with a master's degree at Mass General in Boston. She used her training employed at National Institute of Health and various hospitals in Utah and Idaho to help support her family. Later in life, she also worked as a special education assistant at Rocky Mountain Middle School in Idaho Falls. She had an amazing gift for working with children and loved helping them achieve their full potential. Helping others feel valued and loved was one of her tremendous talents.

Her family was her greatest joy and priority in her life. She married Dennis Kay Hendricks in December 1966 in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple. They were blessed with six children. Sylvia was a devoted mother and friend. Sylvia loved to serve others. She was active in the LDS church where she held several leadership positions and blessed the lives of many people. She enjoyed the years that she worked with the cubs and 11 year old scouts. Several Scouts received their Eagle Scout award due to her motivation and influence. In addition to Scouts and service, Sylvia had many interests and talents. She enjoyed handiwork, camping and was an avid sports fan. She coached 16 T-ball teams and won six city championships.

She is survived by her loving husband; her children, Bill (Allyson) Hendricks, Erin (Jenefer) Hendricks, Kara (Jason) Reid, Stacey (Matt) Goodman, Jonathan (Carrie) Hendricks and Jeremy (Heather) Hendricks; 14 grandchildren; and her siblings, Mary Lou Mellor of Spokane, Wash., Val Crapo of Idaho Falls, Jane Bush of American Fork, Utah, Bill Hatch of Portland, Ore., and Pat Nelson of Orem, Utah. She was proceeded in death by one granddaughter, Rylee Hendricks.

Funeral services will be at 1 p.m. Friday, June 5, at the Idaho Falls West Stake Center, 2040 Brentwood Drive. Friends and family may call from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday evening and from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. prior to the funeral services at the aforementioned church. Graveside services will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 6, at the Alpine, Utah, cemetery.

We love you Mom

2009-05-31T13:44:00.001-07:00

Dear Sylvia,
Thank you for loving us so much. You were such a wonderful Mother. We had hoped that Kate would have more time with you, but we are so thankful that you were able to hold her and share in our joy when she was placed with us.
We are so sad that you are gone. But we know that we'll see you again.
Thank you for sharing your faith and testimony with us. Thank you for living such a good life and for teaching your children to do the same.
This morning as you passed on, Dennis said that your greatest desire was to live eternally with your family. We promise to do our best so that we can live with you forever.
We love you with all of our hearts.
Jon, Carrie, and Kate

Baby Kate

2009-05-25T10:03:00.000-07:00

So Jon and I are loving the Mommy and Daddy thing. Kate is the best little baby. She sleeps about 5-6 hours every night, she doesn't cry much, and she only poops when it's Jon's turn to change her (thank you Kate!).

She loves cuddling with Daddy, playing dress-up with Mommy, and talking!

This past weekend we went up to Idaho. Jon's parents are moving down to Lehi, so we went up to help them. Jon's mom started treatment for her Cancer so she is really sick. Our job was to take care of her, and drive her to her new home. I have to say I was super scared to do this. I could just picture Kate screaming, and Jon's mom being so sick. Well, I'm happy to say that the trip down was perfect. We borrowed my parent's Tahoe and so Jon's mom laid in the back and slept most of the way, Kate was in the far back, and she too slept the entire trip.
While we were in Idaho I decided to go and visit my cute cousin. She recently had a baby a month before Kate was born. Kate loved playing with him!

we're a happy family...

2009-05-16T14:39:00.001-07:00

miracle in progress...

2009-05-12T11:46:00.000-07:00

Last week, we were told that our wonderful birth mother had decided to place her beautiful baby with us. You can only imagine our excitement when we heard this. We rushed to get everything ready.
When the day of placement came, the birth mother (with the help of her family) decided that she needed some more time. But this time, she wanted us to take the baby. Yup, you heard right. She wanted us to take the baby, and her to continue to think.
At first, I was shocked, hurt, and scared. I was for sure that I could never do this.
Jon and I kneeled and prayed.
We pleaded with the Lord.
We wanted our miracle. After we were done praying, the supervisor at LDS family services asked us if we believed that this was our baby. My reply was, "we have been through h--- and back for this little baby, of course we believe that she is ours." (I wasn't in a very good mood that afternoon)
Well, after some advice from LDS family services, much praying, and a TON of faith.
We decided that we would trust the Lord, and take her home with us, even though her birth mother hasn't signed anything to make it legal.
So here she is...

This past few days have been so emotional. We LOVE our little one so much. It's so fun having a baby to fill our hearts and arms.
However, I am always wondering about the what if...
what if she decides to take her back...
I have worried so much that I can't eat or sleep. I have a stomach ache all day, everyday.

So, I'm asking for your help. Please join us in praying for our miracle to happen. Please pray for our sweet birth mother to have courage to sign and make placement official. Please pray for her family, that they will be more supportive of her. And please pray for our beautiful baby, that she will be able to stay with us forever.

I cried...

2009-04-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

Today I stayed home and cried.
I cried because my arms are empty.
I cried because my husband's heart is broke.
I cried for our birth mother who wanted us to adopt her beautiful little girl.
I cried for her parents who won't support her decision.

I'm still crying...

Prayer

2009-03-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

Tonight I searched for my keys to the church...

Asked myself, "what if I lost them? Oh, CRAP!!!"

Searched for a long time..........

Decided it was time to pray.

While praying, saw my brown bag that I use to take to church.

Came in the closet.

Found that brown bag.

Found the keys.

Heavenly Father HEARS and ANSWERS my prayers!

Tender Mercies of the Lord

2009-03-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

Our life has felt like this the past few months...

But, the Lord is so mindful of us. In our deepest of sorrows, the Lord sends his love through those around us. Sunday, we had so many friends stop by to see how we were. It was a testimony to us that the Lord is aware of us. He knows how to succor us in our time of need.

Weekend Getaway

2009-02-14T21:46:00.000-08:00

Jon had told me that he wanted to take me out Friday night instead of Saturday so that we could avoid the rush of Valentine's Day. We headed out to dinner as soon as he got home from work. BUT instead of dinner, Jon took me to the Grand America.

What a sweet husband I have. He planned this weeks ago. He packed our bags the morning before and put them in the trunk, so I had no idea!

It was so nice to go and get away just for a night. We have had a crazy past month... so it was great to go and not think about anything but us!

Thanks Love for this perfect Valentine's Weekend! I love you!!!

Glasses

2009-02-06T15:34:00.000-08:00

I have worn glasses from the time that I was just little. The down-side is that I have crappy eyesight; the up-side is that I get to wear glasses! I love glasses. If I could, I would have a new pair for everyday of the week. Of course I can't because they are so expensive (down-side again... my prescription is horrible).

I haven't had new glasses in a few years so I went and got new ones! I love them.

adoption...

2009-01-21T15:31:00.000-08:00

Adoption is a miracle.
I have been thinking a lot lately about adoption. I have been praying more earnestly for our sweet birth mother... who is out there somewhere.

We have been waiting almost 2 years for this miracle to happen. Although it hasn't happened yet, I am so hopeful that it will happen for us soon.

In the Ensign in February, there are stories about adoption. I am amazed at the love that is centered around adoption.

I looking forward to the day when I can be part of this miracle- Adoption.

Happy Birthday Sis!

2009-01-14T15:59:00.000-08:00

It's my wonderful sister's birthday today.
Happy Birthday Sis!!!
She is the best sister that anyone could ask for. I remember when I was little, she would let me hang out with her and her friends, I thought that she was the coolest. Now that we're older, I still love hanging out with her.
She is so supportive and thoughtful. Not to mention that she is a creative genius!
I love her and I'm so thankful that I'm blessed with such an amazing sister!

Dancing in the Rain...

2009-01-11T05:58:00.000-08:00

Last night we had some new friends come over to our home. It was so fun to get to know them better, and to visit with them.
One of them told us a quote that he had found,

"life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain."

We are so thankful that Heavenly Father knows us...

He hears our prayers...

He has a plan for us!

Late Night

2009-01-10T10:47:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful holiday season! Christmas was a blast and New Years was great. The Friday before I went back to school we decided to have a late night with some of our nieces and nephews. We had them all over for pizza, games, and a movie. We played Wii and air hockey, then we got out the air mattress with all of our blankets and pillows for a movie. We have amazing nieces and nephews; they are darling and fun!!!
After most of our nieces and nephews had left, we cleaned up, and the 3 remaining nephews decided to start a new game, 'jump on JON'! Jon is so great with the kids... I'm not sure who had more fun; Jon or the boys!

A sigh of relief...

2008-12-22T12:46:00.000-08:00

Last year, on December 28, I fell and broke my leg. Two weeks later I got a blood clot. My doctor wanted to do these crazy big tests to see if I had something genetically wrong with me. I was sure that I didn't so I just blew it off
Then...
A few months ago Jon and I went to a fertility specialist. He said that the only way we would ever get pregnant was to do IVF. As we talked, we decided that we would wait till May to start the process. But, before we even began we needed to do this in depth blood test; it just happened to be the same test as my regular doctor wanted to do.
So...
Because I had to have the test before we could do anything with the reproductive specialist, I had the test.
Well...
A week ago my doctor called and said that most of the tests came back good, but there was one test. He said things like, "I haven't really seen anything like this..." and "I don't know what we're dealing with..." and "you need to see a blood and cancer specialist."

Needless to say, I've been an emotional wreck lately. I have found myself thinking, "what if I had cancer or some crazy blood disease and this specialist tells me that I have limited time to live." I have been reflecting a lot lately.
So, today we went to the specialist. I don't have cancer, nor a horrible blood disease. I actually found out things that will help me if I ever get pregnant.
HUGE SIGH OF RELIEF!!!

It's amazing how the Lord blesses me. When I fell and got my blood clot I thought that it was crappy luck. But, I'm realizing it was a blessing. A blessing because I'm learning things that will hopefully help me be able to have children.

So today I am so, sO, SO thankful for good health, for an amazingly supportive husband and family, and for my loving Heavenly Father who has a perfect plan for me!

Christmas Break

2008-12-19T13:44:00.000-08:00

This past month has been horribly busy. We haven't been home a lot; we work, sleep, work, sleep and do our church callings...
But all that is changing today because today was the last day of school!!! I love Christmas Break! It's one of my favorite times of year.

Some things happened this week that made me step back and really think about the important things in life. Although life has been crazy, and I have been looking forward to this break... I love my life and I wouldn't want it any other way.
I am so blessed to have an AMAZING Husband, wonderful parents, and many kids at school whom I love!
Life can't get much better!

Come what may, and love it!

2008-11-18T16:10:00.000-08:00

Last night for family home evening, Jon and I read Elder Wirthlin's talk form Conference, Come What May, and Love it!
In the talk he said...
"...whenever my steps led through seasons of sadness and sorrow, my mother’s words often came back to me: “Come what may, and love it.”

How can we love days that are filled with sorrow? We can’t—at least not in the moment. I don’t think my mother was suggesting that we suppress discouragement or deny the reality of pain. I don’t think she was suggesting that we smother unpleasant truths beneath a cloak of pretended happiness. But I do believe that the way we react to adversity can be a major factor in how happy and successful we can be in life.

If we approach adversities wisely, our hardest times can be times of greatest growth, which in turn can lead toward times of greatest happiness."
I needed to hear that so bad last night. Infertility has been a struggle for me, more so lately than ever before...
Last night Jon and I talked about what we had learned from this trial. We both decided that it has strengthened our testimonies of Heavenly Father's plan for us, and the Love that our Savior has for us. How blessed we are to know of a loving Heavenly Father, who loves us so much that he lets us struggle so that we can become stronger!

Peace

2008-11-05T05:55:00.000-08:00

We stayed up most of the night watching the election results. It didn't turn out exactly how I had voted... but I believe that good will always overpower evil. Then we searched for the proposition 8 results in California. Most reports said, "too close to call." At that moment, I was keenly aware of the power of Satan in the world today. These are his last days too. He is pulling out all of the stunts. That scares me for what is to come for me and my family.
Reading in the scriptures last night, I read...

And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.

Peace, be still... what a comforting message.

Black Island Farm

2008-10-28T16:30:00.000-07:00

We went to Black Island Farm with our family last night for FHE. It was fun to spend time with everyone. Here are some of the cute pictures.

Tagged

2008-10-28T15:45:00.000-07:00

So, I was tagged... twice with the same tag. I USUALLY DON'T DO TAGS. BUT... because two people tagged me, I figured I'd give it a try.

7 random things about me...
1. I love dishes. I have 7 sets.
2. I can do tongue tricks. Sometimes I find myself just doing them, when I have nothing else to do. Like now!!!

3. I take great pride in my cooking. I cry when I mess things up, and I think my Grandma Rasmussen would be so proud when things turn out. (She was an amazing cook)
4. I love the look of fields when they have just been plowed.
5. When I have to talk in front of people, (including my students) I first have a practice round in the bathroom in front of the mirror.
6.My husband clips my toenails because I hate doing it.
7.There is a small spider crawling up my wall right this moment. I can't reach it cause my ceiling is too tall. I HATE SPIDERS!

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

Every October, around Halloween, Jon's family comes up and we go to Black Island Farm for a pumpkin hay ride.

It is always so much fun to take the tractor ride out to the pumpkin patch, try and get the biggest pumpkin, then go play on all of the fun 'farmish' toys. Our favorite is the huge slide made out of hay bales and plastic. It is fun for everyone! We also love the corn gun. It is so fun to be with family!

Even the littlest ones had fun!

Who got the biggest pumpkin?

Yes- I believe it was Jon... way to go babe!

What's Next?

2008-10-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

A few years ago, Jon and I decided that we were going to try every avenue possible to have children. We had been trying for awhile, and we had prayed that Heavenly Father would bless us, but we knew that we had to do everything in our own power, and then have faith that he would bless us with a child. So, when we hear of new things that might help us... we are always willing to try.
About a month ago our dear friend Shirley brought us down an article in the paper. The article was about how acupuncture can help couples get pregnant. Jon looked more into it, and we decided that we would give it a try. Today was our first acupuncture appointment. I guess the acupuncture is suppose to help you become balanced.
I was a little scared to get it done, but it wasn't as painful as I thought. It wasn't the most fun thing I have ever done, but not bad.
So, we're trying the acupuncture thing for a while, and we'll see if it helps. And we'll keep praying that sometime, something will work for us.

Potatoes

2008-10-13T15:25:00.000-07:00

Every Columbus Day weekend, Jon and I go to Idaho and pick up potatos. Jon's mom and dad own some property that they lease to a man that grows potatos. Part of the lease agreement is that they and their families can get potatos when they are ready. So, Jon and I go and get about 1,000 pounds of potatos for our families.

When we go up, we stay over Friday night. At night we usually play games with Dennis and Sylvia. Dennis is horrible to play with, he is such a poor looser (I say that cause he usually wins me)!

On Saturday morning we always start by picking apples off of Dennis and Sylvia's big apple tree, then we go out to the farm and get potatos, then we go to Fiesta Ole for lunch. We've done this every year since we've been married... it's so fun! Thank you Dennis and Sylvia for spending the weekend with us... We love you!

Happy Birthday Love!

2008-10-06T20:32:00.000-07:00

It was Jon's birthday last Friday... big 31! Jon is an amazing man. I am so blessed to have him as my husband and best friend.
10 things I love about Jon...

10. He gives the best hugs.
9. He eats whatever I cook and loves it!
8. He has the cutest legs and feet!
7. He's so faithful.
6. He notices when I have a bad day and gets me flowers.
5. He has the best smile.
4. He makes me laugh.
3. He is an amazing listener.
2. He is so patient.
1. He loves me.
I love you Jonny Boy!!!

Relief Society

2008-09-28T09:07:00.000-07:00

I love Relief Society! I had the opportunity of going to the General Relief Society Meeting at the Conference Center. It was amazing to be there with women of such faith. After leaving the meeting, I felt so happy to know that I am a daughter of God. I am so thankful that I belong to Relief Society...an organization created by God for his daughters.

The Brick Wall

2008-09-20T08:34:00.001-07:00

Jon and I were talking in bed the other night. We were discussing our infertility, adoption, and such. Jon had said with our efforts to have children, it seems like we're going along great, that things are looking up, and then we
smack
right into a brick wall, and it stops us dead in our tracks and it hurts, oh how it hurts.
Our latest brick wall came 3 weeks ago. We were contacted by a birth mother who asked if we would adopt her 2 year old daughter. We were so excited! We replied saying YES! of course we would love that opportunity. Then,
we waited...
and waited...
and waited.
While we were waiting, I got impatient, so I thought that I needed to demonstrate more faith, so I cleaned the room where our baby would be sleeping. I cleaned the closet so that we would be ready, I even went out and bought her some clothes. Well, after weeks of checking our e-mail and answering machine hundreds of times a day, we're still waiting.
I pray that she will call.
I pray that she will email.
But, in the meantime, I'm trying to pick myself up from that awful shock of hitting another brick wall.
This brick wall was different...
it was more real than all the others...
and it hurts so much worse.

40 years

2008-09-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

It's my Mom and Dad's 40th anniversary. My parents are absolutely perfect for each other. My Dad loves to bug my Mom, and my Mom loves to get under my Dad's skin. A perfect fit! My parents are so amazing. They both are so kind and generous to everyone. They are fun and always put their kids and grandkids above everything else. They are amazing parents, I'm so lucky to have them! Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!

Back to School

2008-08-26T19:49:00.000-07:00

Well, I made it through the first two days of school. I forgot how bad my feet hurt these first few days. I guess it's a good excuse for another pedicure!
Jon and I have been seeing a homoeopathic doctor for our infertility. We did this huge test, and when we got the test results back, something just didn't seem right. Well, after a few phone calls, we found that the test was done incorrectly. I wanted to scream when I found out. I feel that every time we start something new with treatments or adoption, we hit this invisible wall. It's hard to get up and keep going. But I guess that's what life is all about, keep moving forward...even when it feels like you're walking through quicksand.

Just Us Girls...

2008-08-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday the Hendricks girls got together and we all had pedicures. Sylvia, Jon's mom, came down from Idaho-her husband was so surprised that she was coming 'just to get her toes done'. But what is amazing, this was her first ever pedicure and the first time that she had her toenails painted! We met the other girls in Highland, then went and got pampered! After our toes looked fantastic, we went to lunch. It was so much fun talking and laughing. It's always fun getting together with the Hendricks family- especially Just Us Girls! It was so fun, we have decided to make it a tradition!

Breakdown...

2008-08-06T10:12:00.000-07:00

Have you ever had one of those days? The days where you’ve just had enough. It reminds me of the straw on the camel's back… the one that is just too much to deal with. Earlier this year I fell and broke my ankle and sprained the other one really bad. A week later I found out that I had a blood clot, and a week after that my mom and I got in a car accident. Although everything was going crazy in life, I tried to be brave. It wasn’t until a few weeks later when I hobbled in and noticed that my window in my bedroom was broken…I lost it. I cried and cried and cried. I had had enough.
Sunday it happened again. This time it wasn’t any major battle. Just the regular emotions with infertility and not being chosen for adoption yet and my crazy body reacting to who-knows what; I walked into the bathroom to wash my face. And it hit. I have been washing my face 4 times a day lately hoping that I can help whatever my body is doing to make my face break-out; and nothing I do helps. I ran into my room and cried. I cried because I feel that no matter how hard I try nothing works. It was just one of those moments where I had had enough.
That night as I knelt down to pray I really wanted to cry and say WHY?!! But instead I just thanked Heavenly Father for my many blessings. I didn’t ask for a single thing, I just thanked. It took a while, and after I was finished everything wasn’t perfect… I’m still not a mom and my face is still broke-out, but I have so much to be thankful for.
I remembered a quote from Sister Hinckley…

“I have two choices. I can choose to be happy or I can choose to be sad. I choose to be happy.”

I hope that no matter what life brings that I will choose to be happy and thankful!

Montana

2008-07-28T13:25:00.000-07:00

Last week we went on a little 'ROAD TRIP' to Montana. We left Saturday night and stopped in Idaho Falls to spend time with Jon's parents. The next morning after church we hit the road. Sunday night we stayed in East Glacier. It was beautiful!

Monday we got up and went to spend the day with Jon's sister Kara. Her and her husband live on a ranch in Northern Montana. They were so kind to take us on a tour of their ranch...but I forgot my allergy medicine and I got allergies so bad. We had to run into town to the only little store there is and get some medicine. The medicine knocked me out. When I finally was a little coherent we went on a drive through Glacier National Park.

Although I felt like crap, it was fun to see the beautiful park.

Tuesday Jon and I went to Canada. We went to the temple in Cardston. Gorgeous temple!

We then drove to Waterton. In Waterton we saw a BEAR! We were so excited. Waterton is a beautiful place. I loved the lake with amazing mountains all around!

That night we stayed in St. Marys. Way fun little town! The next morning we hit the road again.
It was such a fun trip. Jon and I love taking drives together and although this one was really long... we had a blast!

Girls Day

2008-07-17T14:37:00.000-07:00

I love summer! I love that I don't have to shower till 3:00 in the afternoon if I want, I love that I get to take a nap during the day if I want, and I especially love that I get to go shopping with the girls!

Since I was little, we've always had a GIRLS DAY; we go shopping, go to lunch, and play all day. Although it's called a GIRLS DAY it's actually the girls and all of the kids too.

This year we went to Ikea and to Gardner's Village for our Girls Day. My mom, sister (Amie), sister-in-law (Rhonda), and I all went with the kids (Makynzee, Wyatt, Sidnie, Mason, and Marshal). My other sister-in-law (Charlise) usually comes with her boys, but she's at girls camp this week.
We had fun shopping and eating but the best part was spending time together!

One of our favorite stores at Gardner's Village is the Candy Shop. YUMMY! I think we spent more money there than in all of the other shops combined.

After eating and shopping the kids got to ride the little horses.

The 4th of July Family CAMPING Trip

2008-07-06T18:07:00.001-07:00

Every 4th of July, Jon's family has a big camping trip. This year we camped in Georgetown Canyon in Idaho. Jon has such a great family. For this camp-out everyone comes; aunts, uncles, cousins...everyone.

This is Jon's Brother and Sister. Another one of his brothers was there, but he was out fishing... sorry Erin.

Dennis was bugged one morning because we had dutch-oven breakfast instead of the normal pancakes. Dennis loves yelling..."Hot hotcakes, Golden brown, get 'em while they're hot."

On Saturday we had the big gift-exchange. For the gift exchange everyone brings a gift to exchange. We play this little game of exchanging the gifts, it is a blast. It takes about 2 hours, everyone has fun. I didn't end up with the gift that I wanted. It was a quilt that was made by the entire family in 1980 as a gift for Jon's Grandma Hendricks. Well, after the gift exchange Uncle Bill gave me the quilt. I was so excited!!!
On the way home Jon and I took a drive around to his Grandparent's graves. We ended up meeting an older relative of Jon's great-grandpa. It was so neat to learn new things about his grandmother and her family.
This was a great weekend! We love spending time with family; laughing, listening to stories, and playing! It was such a nice treat to learn more about our ancestors! What a great way to spend our 4th of July!

Tuesday "Tell All" Memories

2008-07-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

I got this from my sister's blog. I thought it would be fun! I hope you will play along.
Here are the directions:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Rocket Car Derby

2008-06-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

Last year at Scout camp, Jon and one of his scouts started talking about a great idea they had to have a rocket car derby. Well, after much research, and hard work- they had their rocket car derby. All of the boys (even the big ones they call leaders) created their own derby car. Jon drilled holes in the end of each car so that a rocket engine could be inserted. They built a track which consisted of cable, blocks, and foam. They hung the cars to the cable, and lit their engines. It was really fun to watch. Jon's poor car had some difficulties; it lost all of its wheels by the end of the night. But, everyone had a great time! Jon is a really fun scout-master. One of the moms told me, "Jon will probably be in this calling forever." I have to agree, he's probably in scouts for the long-hall. Oh well, he loves it- he loves his boys and has so much fun with them.

Happy Father's Day

2008-06-15T19:42:00.000-07:00

Today is a great day to think about the important men in my life. I've been thinking a lot about my dear husband. Although he's not a father yet-he will be someday, and he's going to make a great dad. Jon is the most patient and kind person that I know. He is so understanding and always goes out of his way to help everyone.
I've also thought about my dear Dad. I love this man...He is one of a kind! He exemplifies service and love. He has taught me so much in my life, but most important he has always loved me!
Another man I've been thinking about is my fun Father-in-Law. He is so fun to joke with! He and I love to tease each other, but at the end of the day we love each other. I'm thankful for the example that he has been to Jon.
I've been thinking about my relationship with my Father in Heaven today, too. I am thankful for his love and blessings which he gives me. I'm thankful that he loves me enough to test and try me. How blessed I am to know that I am a daughter of God! I guess most of all I've just been thinking how lucky I am to have great men in my life; men who I adore and love!
Happy Father's Day!

The Green Thumb

2008-05-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

Yes! We finally found our 'GREEN THUMBS'!
Jon and I grew up gardening with our parents and so when we got married we though we would try it out on our own. With my parents owning a nursery and all, I thought it would be a piece of cake. Well, let's just say in the past it hasn't been that beautiful. We always start out great, but by the time the weeds come, we run out of energy.

But we made a goal that this year was going to be different.

We started by getting new garden boxes. Then we mapped out our garden; we planned what we wanted to plant and where we would plant it. I'm excited to say that everything is growing!!! There is a new thing called square-foot-gardening. We had my brother and dad give us the HOW TO's, and presto... here is our garden. Jon even made me this great strawberry box!

Mother's Day

2008-05-12T13:09:00.000-07:00

Well, I survived yet another Mother's Day. Mother's Day is one of those days where I just want to stay in my pajamas all day, cry, and eat chocolate and drink an ice cold coke. But, I didn't, and I survived. We went to church, watched the Jazz game with Jon's parents, and had a picnic with my entire family. Yesterday I tried hard to focus on all of the wonderful mothers in my life. Especially my mom and Jon's mom. We have been so blessed. Our mothers are amazing!

Each year since we have been trying to have children I find myself thinking, "Maybe next year...maybe then I'll be a mother." Well, I have had many 'next years' and I'm still not a mother. The desire in me to be a mother is so real and strong. It's hard... on days like mother's day-I want to scream and say, "it's not fair." But, just when I feel that I'm going to break Heavenly Father strengthens me by wonderful people around me. My husband is amazingly understanding and patient, my mother is sympathetic and loving, my friends and huge supporters... I could go on and on about all of the wonderful people in my life who pick me up when I'm down. Thank you...

Here is Jon with his mom, Sylvia. It's always fun to have Jon's parents at our home. Sylvia is such a great mom. She is always willing to help in anyway possible.

This is my mom, Jerry, my sister, Amie, and me. I absolutely love these two! My mom is amazing. She is my hero. She is happy, funny, and so kind! I hope someday to be just like her.

At my parent's home we had our picnic. Jon and I love playing with our nieces and nephews. We love to jump, swing, and play baseball! Don't we have such cute nieces and nephews.

All of the kids love Jon! Here he is with one of our youngest nephews.

Jon's parents brought down their latest craze; it's called a trikke. Surprisingly enough it is way fun! I have to admit that I am pretty good at them, Jon on the other hand could use some practice. But, to give Jon the benefit of the doubt, we worked at my parents nursery on Saturday. It's really hard labor, and both of us were way sore when we were finished. So, I'm sure if Jon's legs didn't hurt so bad he'd be much better.

Waiting...

2008-04-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

Today as I was looking at Blogs I came across this poem.
Although we are still waiting and dreaming, I hope for the day when our many prayers will be answered and we will have our miracle.

We Dreamed Of You

We dreamed of you long before

You came into our world.

We dreamed about adopting

a little boy or little girl.

We didn't yet know when or where

or even if or how,

But we knew the child

we dreamed about

would come to us somehow.

The ocean of adoption has a

rough and tumble tide,

But we jumped into the water

knowing you were worth the ride.

And even though the journey

had some sad and stormy weather,

The prize was worth a million storms

when we were all together.

It's difficult to dare to dream of

becoming a father or mother,

When you can't control your destiny

and need the help of others.

That's why you're such a miracle-

you found us and we found you.

We dared to dream,

we dreamed of you.

We dreamed...and

YOU came true!
--Karen Burniston

President Monson

2008-04-26T17:50:00.001-07:00

My family belongs to the Utah Fancy Poultry Association, also called the Chicken Club. We have raised chickens as long as I can remember, and so we joined the Chicken Club so that we could show our chickens. A few years ago, President Monson started coming to the Chicken Club. (You might remember that he raises pigeons.) Well, after he was called as our Prophet, there was a chicken show. My dad, brother, and niece and nephews were getting ready to go to the chicken show. They asked Jon if he wanted to go, but we had a lot going on that particular Saturday, so Jon said no. When they got to the chicken show they got out of their car and walked in. As they were walking, my dad noticed President Monson walking next to them. He took time to get pictures taken with everyone. He also took time to look at the birds. What a memorable experience for my dad, brother, niece, and nephews to have met the Prophet of God!

Go Jazz, Go!!!

2008-04-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

Yea! Our Jazz made it to the Playoffs! We went to the third game with our good friends the Droges and the Woods. After a lot of screaming and cheering....they lost. Oh well, we had good fun, good friends, and a great time at the game!

WOW! Look at all of these fans! (And yes, if you hadn't noticed we ARE all wearing the same shirt....we do have amazing taste in clothing!)