.:shannon:.

.:reflecting:.

2012-01-19T15:44:00.000-07:00

I am laying awake, completely unable to sleep, and find myself reflecting over the past several years...the ups, the downs...the good and bad...a tearful journey down memory lane. All the things that have happened to me and others that are very dear to me. Lessons that I have learned, and taken away from experiences, good and bad. Losing a sense of who I am, and the amazing feeling of finding myself again. Laughing until your stomach hurts, crying until your head aches....so many emotions that one person doesn't realize they possess. Realizing that if others are able to make such enormous impacts on your life, maybe, just maybe, you have impacted somebody else's life in one small way or another. Never knowing who is watching you and your example from a distance. Finding out that Dorothy had it right from the beginning, "There's no place like home." Sometimes we go through things in our life that teach us more about ourselves then we wanted to really know. I know for me, this is one of those times. I can honestly say I am at a point in my life where I am continually learning about myself and the people around me. The more people I meet the more I learn about who I am and the kind of person I want to be. I am who I am and I am sorry if that isn't enough for some people but I think that if I tried to change I would no longer be recognizable, to myself... the biggest tragedy there is. I have loved in my life and I have hated and I think both have taught me so many valuable things about human nature, but more importantly about myself. As much as I would like to not feel anything because it would be easier that way, how could I truly live? As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn't supposed to ever let you down probably will. You will have your heart broken probably more than once, and it's harder everytime. You'll break hearts too, so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You'll fight with your best friend. You'll blame a new love for things an old one did. You'll cry because time is passing too fast. You'll eventually lose someone you love...So, take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you've never been hurt, because every sixty seconds you spend upset, is a minute of happiness that you'll never get back. Life's too short to spend looking back and dwelling on the past, what's done is done...look forward and see what the future has in store for you....Make your life what you want it to be for yourself, and start now. There is no time like the present. You are what you make yourself to be.

.:january 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:24:00.007-07:00

In January, I got a text message from my cousin Audrey asking if I would be interested in joining the Relay for Life committee! I was so honored that they would ask me to do so and couldn't wait to start getting my hands dirty with such a great cause!! With my family's history of cancer, (especially my own dads battle) I jumped at such an amazing opportunity!! I am now the Sponsorship Chair for the Relay for Life Committee!

.:february 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:24:00.005-07:00

The biggest news of February was that I got a new job!! I started working for the HTC Team at Marketstar!! I switched over teams and couldn't be happier! Working with great people and for a great company!! I love it!

.:april 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:24:00.001-07:00

My buddy Shane came up for Easter...I told him to do some tricks on the trampoline for the little kids to watch...next thing I know, Shane had blood dripping down his face...he had hit his head on the frame of the trampoline...nothing a little super glue and a bandaid won't fix..right?? (sorry if you're squimish!)

.:may 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:22:00.007-07:00

At the beginning of May I went up to Pullman for the Annual Chipman and Taylor Classic Car Show. One of my favorite things that I miss from my days up there! Of course, I got too caught up in visiting with everyone to take pictures...oopsies! :)

Towards the end of May we had our very first Sommers' Family Reunion. We went up to Heber Valley Girls Camp and had a blast...despite the snow. :) We did zip lining, minute to win it and sang campfire songs. Never a dull moment with the Sommers' family....never! (all of the pics loaded out of order, but you can figure it out!)

Our cooking and clean up crew

Minute to Win It

On the top bunk making sure everyone stays in line

Raising the Flag

Family Skit Night

Minute to Win It

Finally a somewhat warm day

Seein' what we can see

Our family flag

Playing the cardboard/washboard in our family band

Trying to get warm!

Zip Line

Minute to Win It

Snow at the end of May during the kids' scavenger hunt

Family skit

Telling one of my funny stories, I'm sure!

This goes to show just about how much I like doing dishes...

Minute to Win It

The Whole Family!

Proof that my dad was once too tall for something... :)

The men building the fire

Campfire songs!

.:june 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:22:00.005-07:00

June wasn't a very exciting month for me, but my dad and I did manage to go on a hike up to the 'M'. My dad got some new hiking boots for Father's Day (he bought them for himself) and he wanted to break them in. So away we went! With my dad being on chemo, we had to go a little slower than usual. But he made it to the top! I was so very proud of him!! (I have more pictures somewhere, I'm sure of it!)

The flag that my Grandma Jo put on the mountain by the 'M'

Just playing with the shadows

.:july 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:22:00.003-07:00

July was an EXTREMELY busy month!! Started off with a Relay for Life Softball Tournament...which happened to fall on the same day as an all nighter volleyball tournament. Did I manage to play in both you ask? Yes, yes I did! And it was a blast!! This was followed by the Fourth of July and then right after that I was off to Tucson, AZ for my friend Ashley's wedding! I had such a good time in Tucson. We went and visited Tombstone, AZ and saw the re-enactment of the OK Corral and Wyatt Earp. Then the wedding was the next day. It was such a beautiful wedding and day all around. I met some amazing people while I was there and hope that we stay friends for a long time!

In Tombstone, AZ

I was determined to get my picture with a tall as can be cactus..found one!

With the bride and groom (Ashley and Eric) don't mind that my eyes are closed...

With one of my favorites, my friend Ashley

After getting back from Tucson, I went to the Journey/Foreigner concert, talk about a blast!! I love me some Journey! And then came Pioneer Day. Barry had planned a hike from the top of Big Mountain to Mormon Flats. Just my dad, Barry, Cameron and myself. We had such a good time! I love those boys! Not to mention the fact that it was a beautiful hike!! And to round out the 24th, we went and watch Tara's son Jason race motocross at Rocky Mountain Raceway and they finished off the races with quite the firework show!

Jack and I at the races

The track...Jason sure can ride!! That kid is amazing on a bike!

For Pioneer Day, Barry had an idea that we should hike from the top of Big Mountain down to the Mormon Flats, in remembrance of the Pioneers. So off we went, just my dad, Barry, Cameron and I. We had such a good time just talking and walking along! It was such a beautiful hike!!

Starting off on our hike, at the top of Big Mountain

All of us just leaving the house (sorry they are out of order)

Some of the way down the hike

Our dad told us to wave to him...yes, we're still his little kids!!

The view from the beginning of our hike

Our view at the end of the hike

The last thing I did in July was a week long business trip in Seattle. We had such a fun time! I have to say, I work for one of the best companies around!! If you know me, I don't like seafood...while on this trip, I managed to try: lobster, sushi, crab, salmon, shrimp, oysters and more...I was brave, but I still don't like it! :)

My view during the day while in Seattle...

Me giving my presentation. I was nervous as could be, but it turned out pretty okay.

Meagan and I during one of our breaks

About to try an oyster....I was stoked, as you can tell... :)

.:august 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:22:00.001-07:00

So, at the beginning of August I decided I needed a change, and if you know me, my changes come in hair colors....I decided to be bold with this one and go red...it took a lot of getting used to...and a lot of up keep!!!

On August 9th we got a call at our house looking for my mom saying that something was wrong with Grandma Jo and they were waiting for the ambulance to come and pick her up. My dad and I jumped in the car and drove straight to the hospital. (my mom rode in the ambulance) Once we found where they had my grandma in the ER, I had to go and wait in the waiting room. It was too hard for me to see her there on the bed being worked on with such a frightened look on her face. She had had a massive stroke and could no longer talk at that point. They took her into surgery promptly and we were there until about 6am waiting to hear. Once she was in the ICU we were able to go in and see her. She couldn't talk, but there was something about being in that room with her that she let us know that she knew we were in there. The hardest part was meeting with the team of doctors as a family and deciding what the next steps should be, but it was very calming to feel in the room that everyone was on the same page as my mom and her siblings left to talk and make the final decisions. On August 11th we were able to transport my grandma back home and get her in her own bed and have one last family gathering. We all took turns going in and holding her hand. She passed about 10 minutes after the last grandchild left. She had held on for everyone that was coming in from out of state to get there. She went in her very own peaceful way. I honestly don't think that she could have planned it any better. She was such an amazing woman and she has left quite the legacy. What a beautiful reunion was had in heaven as she was able to embrace my grandpa and aunt Jennifer once again!! She is missed every day, but we all can't wait to be with her again!! Love you Grandma Jo!

Grandma with Ashley and I, one of my favorite pictures!

With Grandma and the doll she made me...one of her hundreds of porcelain dolls she made

Just Grandma and my doll

The day after Grandma died was the Relay for Life walk. It is an all night walk around the track at the high school. Our team decided to go on with participating, because we didn't have much else to do while the family was still in the funeral planning stages. Since Johnny and his family had driven up to say goodbye to my grandma, they joined our team as well. It was nice to have so many of us there walking and doing our part in helping find a cure for cancer, and in essence supporting our dad, he is the reason that we relay! Our team ended up making about $650 that we were able to donate, talk about such an amazing feeling! (Being the team captain and a Relay committee member, I failed at getting any pictures of the event)

Another part of August is the good ol' birthday....26!!! It's so crazy to think that I am so old!! I had originally planned to take the day off work, but with the family events, I ended up working. Johnny, his family, mom, dad, Barry, Katie and Jack all met me for lunch at Maple Gardens, yum!! When I got home the family was pretty spread out with all of the other goings on, so Barry and Katie came and picked me up and we went and hit a bucket of balls at the golf course!!

To round out the month of August, Cameron and Tammy welcomed their new little one Eliana! (followed by another trip to Washington for me for a weekend wedding, again, no pictures!)

.:september 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:21:00.003-07:00

At the first of September was the big University of Utah/BYU Rivalry Game!! Our office made it into a weeks worth of activities, including decorating our cubicles. Our entire team just happens to be Utah fans, so we went all out!!

So, I made a fort out of my desk....

The boss...he didn't appreciate my fort as much as I did

In case you didn't know...Utah won the game 54-10

Meagan and I proudly represented every day of the week!!
Here's just one of the days.

Around the middle of September our family friend Valeria along with her husband Carl and their cute lil girl Miriam came for a visit. We had a lot of fun showing Carl around our neck of the woods. We went up to Hardscrabble and shot guns and also hiked up to Ruth Lake in the Uintahs, we had a blast!

We had fun entertaining each other in the back of the van!

I would have kept her here if her parents would let me! She's as cute as they come!

Ruth Lake sooo pretty!

With Mia towards the beginning of the hike

Playing with the camera and shadows

Then everyone else joined in :)

With my mom half way through the hike

Provo Falls

All the girls

.:october 2011:.

2011-12-15T16:21:00.001-07:00

A little bit ago my shoulder started bothering me when I played ball, I didn't think much of it and just figured I would keep on keeping on....until my left shoulder started to have the same pain after a bowling incident. So off to the orthopedic surgeon I went. I was informed that I have what is called Multi-Directional Instability. Which means that my ligaments are longer than normal and they are unable to hold the ball in the socket in my shoulders causing the ball to roll over the lip and pinch the nerves every time I would hit the ball. My options were surgery with a year long recovery, or physical therapy. I opted for the therapy first and I am still working to strengthen the muscle around the shoulder to help do what the ligaments cannot. I hope I can play ball pain free again one day!!!

I thought that maybe the assistance of Dora the Explorers
best band-aids might help...fingers crossed!

WILMA!!! Every year my company does a a big Halloween party/carnival in place of doing something at Christmas time. They give away amazing prizes and have tons of fun things for the kids. One of my buddies went with me to complete the costume.

Sorry it's kinda dark. We forgot to take a picture
until we were leaving and in the parking lot.

Every year my Grandma Sommers has a girl's day where all of the girls get together and eat a yummy lunch and do a craft...this is something all of us look forward to every year! And this year Katie and I showed up, and we were wearing the same outfit!! Oopsies!

.november 2011:.

2011-12-14T16:44:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity of a lifetime when Barry and Katie asked me to help take pictures and be in the room with them when Mason was born...talk about witnessing a miracle!! He is the sweetest lil baby and I'm thankful to Barry and Katie for allowing me to experience such a miracle with them!

At the end of November, of course, we celebrated Thanksgiving with lots of yummy food and watching football...but this year we did something we haven't done in a looooong time....we built gingerbread houses!! I had a blast...it truly had been a long time!

.:december 2011:.

2011-12-14T16:21:00.001-07:00

The month of December is always crazy for our family! Birthdays galore and of course, the celebration of Christmas!! Other than the cold, this is one of my most favorite times of the year!! Our first stop in December was my dad's birthday. He has been through so much this last year, and I love him so much! I couldn't ask for a better Dad, especially considering I'm a daddy's girl! :)

I decided to take some of my vacation before the year was up and I lost about 40 hours worth of vacation. I was all prepped and ready to sleep in, when at 10:00 the night before my dad asked me if I wanted to go elk hunting with him the next day.....OF COURSE I DID! There went my plans of sleeping in, but I was so excited! I got everything ready and bright and early the next day we headed up into the mountains! We saw a coyote, wild turkeys, antelope, deer, bald eagles, golden eagles and TONS of elk...but unfortunately, we didn't get close enough to shoot any of the elk...maybe next time!

Looking out over the mountains up at Francis Ranch!

CAMOUFLAGE!!

CHRISTMAS!! We had a fun Christmas at our house. Just ma, pa and myself! I actually woke up pretty early for being able to sleep in! It was a good day though filled with yummy food, presents and family! You can't beat Christmas at my Grandma Sommers' house!! Two days before Christmas, Shari went into early labor with her twins. They were able to stop the contractions, but she was put on bed rest, so last minute on Christmas night, my dad, mom and I decided to go up there and help her out for the week. So we packed until about midnight and were on the road at 6am. It was a fun week with Shari and the boys!! I miss them so much and get pretty homesick when I go to visit! My sister will probably kill me, but here are some pics of her and her twins...

.:pictures:.

2011-01-20T21:37:00.002-07:00

apparently I am having computer issues, the pics that I uploaded didn't shrink down like I asked the uploader to do so...so, if you want to see the entirety of the pics, you're gonna hafta click 'em. Sorry for the inconvenience! :)

.:2010:.

2011-01-20T20:45:00.003-07:00

.:January:.

Other than celebrating the New Year...not too much in the month of January!

.:February:.

This was a fun month, my friend Alyssa, her husband Kellen and my friend Landon decided we should start hitting up some Jazz games....talk about a good time! We also went to Game 3 of the playoffs!! Such a blast!!

.:March:.

In March we had a girls get-a-way up in Heber City, it was so fun to just relax with the girls in the condo.....

.:April:.

In April I decided to change up my room and make it more....'mine'....here are the before and afters!

.:May:.

I went to my first professional soccer game...ReAL Salt Lake, wow, I definitely didn't think that I would get as into the game as I did...but it was really fun! Thanks to my cousin Drew for introducing me to such fun!!

.:June:.

As I said back in the January 2009 post, Flying J had filed for bankruptcy, so I was fortunate to stay on with them as long as I did, but at the end of June I got a job with a company called Marketstar, which is a third-party marketing company and I would be representing the client SONY. Bring. It. On. Also, we did some camping and playing with my buddy Shane and my cousin Drew...yep, FUN!

.:July.:

July was a pretty crazy month just trying to learn all of the new things at a new job, but I loved what I was doing and the people I was working with, so it made it all pretty easy!

.:August:.

For my birthday, Tasha and I planned a little trip to Rock Springs to see one of our favorite bands Lifehouse. Her husband Josh and my friend Landon came along for the ride...we had so much fun!!

.:September:.

SEATTLE!! I was having a stress out moment and called my buddy Simi and decided to randomly buy a plane ticket and go up and visit him for a long weekend in Seattle!! We had so much fun just doing touristy things around the city! It was so good to see a friend that I hadn't seen in a few years! Thanks for the adventure Simba!

Also in September, we learned that my dad's cancer had come back after 8 years....talk about a hard pill to swallow. Lucky for us, we have an amazing dad and he was positive and helped us all cope...talk about someone being a real hero!! This news included the fact that he would have to have surgery in November, followed by Chemotherapy. The poor guy had a long long road ahead of him, but he held his head high and had the positive attitude!! SLY Dad!

.:October:.

Meagan, Cathy, Kipp, and I decided it was time for a lil break, so we headed down to a ReAL game, followed by a fun night in Wendover!! Thanks ya'll for such a fun time!!

.:November:.

For dad's last weekend before surgery, we decided we would do whatever he wanted to do, so we went to the Airforce museum and looked around, and then watched "How To Train Your Dragon" at home. It was a good time!!

Shari and Johnny both flew in for Dad's surgery, it was nice to have everyone here as a family at such a critical time. Dad's surgery went very well, and the doctors were very hopeful. Dad was recovering pretty well, so for Thanksgiving both Shari's family and Johnny's family came home...talk about a full house! But it was soo fun to have everyone together again, it had been awhile!

.:December:.

This month was pretty low key in the Sommers' household...dad was recovering really well though, so we are thankful for that!! That was truly one of our Christmas wishes!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS!

.:2009:.

2011-01-20T20:13:00.005-07:00

.:January:.

Well, two days into working at Flying J, the company filed for bankruptcy, so the month of January held a bit of stress for me, but I finally was able to

to change my mindset and just 'go with the flow'. At the end of January my mom and I traveled to Pullman to watch Shari in the Women At The Well production for her stake. It was a short trip, but well worth it!!

.:February:.

One of my good friends from when I lived in Washington came to visit. The day that she flew in, I slid off the road on my way to work, freaked me

out!! But no damage was done to my car and we were able to have SUCH a good time!! Barry took us up Hardscrabble with his snowmobile and a tube, and apparently, that's all you need!! We had a BLAST! We also had a girl's night with Katie and her sister Nikki at Wise Guy's Comedy Club! Couldn't have asked for a better time with Ash!

.:March:.

In March was Shari and my trip to VEGAS! We had the best time!! Just walking around the strip, eating at buffets, relaxing at the condo, getting massages, eating at buffets, gambling, saw the Blue Man Group, taking pictures and eating at buffets!!! Thanks again Shari!!!

.:April - July:.

I can't think of anything too exciting that happened (c'mon...it was 2 whole years ago!!)

.:August:.

Like every year, in August I had my birthday, same ol' same.....

.:September:.

Back to nothing much of the exciting.

.:October:.

We headed to California to see my nephew Tyler get baptized. I can't believe how big all of my nieces and nephews are getting!! Congrats to Ty! I am so proud! (I can't find my pics from this trip....bummer, I know!

.:November - December:.

The usual holiday craziness that you can imagine in November and December....

.:My Sister, My Friend:.

2009-01-29T19:41:00.007-07:00

I'm sure ya'll might beg to differ....BUT, I'm pretty sure that I have the BEST sister ever, and there's no denying that!! With eleven years between us I kind of grew up with a vague hope that one day we would AT LEAST get along...well, she did me one better--she's my BEST FRIEND! As most of you know, I lived down the road from Shari for the last 6 years, and loved every minute of it. She has taught me so much over the years...more than she will ever know! She had to put up with A LOT having me as a little sister...I always wanted to be JUST like my big sister...but now more than ever I hope to become a small percentage of what she is--she is such an amazing woman! I wouldn't trade my time spent with her for anything in the world! To Shari: thank you for all that you've done, all that you share, all that you give, all that you are...but most of all-thanks for being you! I love you more than you will ever know! (and as for the Vegas counter at the top of the page..that is in thanks for my sister--for Christmas she got a trip for just me and her for VEGAS!! Which is the other reason that she is better than any other sister!) I LOVE YOU SHARI!

.:Help:.

2008-12-18T20:13:00.005-07:00

On Tuesday I was informed that the home of a family that I was very close to up in Washington had burned down on Sunday, December 14th, while the family was at church. There is little to nothing left of their house and due to the antiquity of their house, they were not covered by fire insurance. Due to the location of their home and the time that passed until anyone was made aware of the fire, there is little to nothing left of their home or any of their possessions. Currently local members of their Church as well as family and friends are assembling together to provide food, clothing, shelter and basic necessities. While this can help them to get by, they cannot do it alone. There is so much that can and MUST be done to help this wonderful family get back on their feet.Christmas is so very soon and what a blessing it WILL be to provide any amount of funds or donations to help rebuild not only their home, but to aid such a special family that has helped to touch so many lives. A bank account has been set up in the name of "The Mills Family Fire Relief Fund" only accessible by the Mills Family and Religious Leaders assisting the family. Any donations would be greatly appreciated. Donations can be sent to:

Bank of Whitman

Mills Family Fire Relief Fund

S. 201 Main, PO BOX 270

Colfax, WA 99111

This family has touched my life, and there will always be a special place in my heart for all of them. They welcomed me into their home as I was dating their son, and I stayed many nights with them at their home, since they lived a ways out of Pullman. They opened their home to me so thoughtfully when I came to spend time with their son. Breakfast was always waiting for me on the table before I had to run off to work in the morning, or fruit cut up and in a bowl to eat in the car if I was running late. They always let me sit in for their family home evenings, and treated me as if I was one of their own. I never entered their house without a hug, and I never left their home without a hug. They are probably the happiest people that I have ever met. And when I made mention of their loss, the response I got was: "It's okay. We're all doing fine." No pity, no anger. Just purely amazing people. Any little bit will help this amazing family get back on their feet. My love goes out to them in their time of need, especially as we approach this Christmas holiday. To the Mills family: Thank you for all that you are, and the example you exude, I love you all more than you know!

.:Finally:.

2008-12-18T19:54:00.005-07:00

I AM A WORKING GIRL AGAIN!!

After, probably the longest 2 months of my life, I went to work today! I am working at the corporate headquarters for Flying J Travel Plaza as the Internal Audit Administrative Assistant. Although, today wasn't the most exciting day, as it had a lot to do with orientation and just getting to know the company guidelines and just getting to know the people on my floor alone is going to take some time! I feel like a grown up all of the sudden having a "corporate" job. I have a feeling that I am really going to like it there. There is 5 guys in my department, including my boss, and they are a great bunch of people. But there are over 1,000 employees in our building, so that will take some getting used to, from having about 36 at the dealership, and knowing all of them personally, but I'm up for the challenge. I was paid a pretty nice compliment by someone that I met today. They told me that Stan, my boss, is really picky about who he hires, and that one of the positions in my department was open for 8 months before they hired one of the guys that I'll be working with! And he told me that he probably interviewed about 15-20 for my position, so although that is flattering, it is also a lot of pressure! It will be a fun new experience though! I'm buckled up and ready for the ride!

This is the beautiful building that I get to work in every day...(outside of this building is where I also got my senior pictures taken! haha It is really nicely landscaped!)

.:An Amazing Man:.

2008-12-01T14:32:00.002-07:00

Today marks the one year anniversary of the passing away of my Grandpa Johanson. As I reflect back on this amazing man's life, and the legacy he started that lives on through his own children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, it becomes more apparent to me that he is gone. Living in Washington for the past six years, I only got to see him about every six months, and now being home, it has hit me hard the he is in fact, gone. I miss the little chuckle he'd have as he was telling a funny story. Waiting in line for him to finish with the pepper at the dinner table. The wonderful hugs he'd always give. But most of all, I miss the sound of his voice when he'd say, "How are ya sis?" He was such a kind, gentle, loving man. He was such a hard worker, and did all he could, for as long as he could. He always stood so tall, in stature, but moreso in example! I don't know of any other man who would pursue a mission in their old age with the amount of trials that he had to face while in the field. He has shown us all a true definition of love, whether you were born into his family, or married in, you were one of his own from the first time you said hello! In everything he did, there was a lesson taught, whether you were young or old, you came away from your time with him, a more knowledgable person. Thank you Grandpa Jo for all that you have done for me, made for me, and shown me in the time that we shared on this earth together. A big part of who I am, is thanks to you. You are a truly missed man, but your legacy lives on, and the memories will never be forgotten.

I love you Grandpa!

Love,

Sis

.:Amazing:.

2008-12-01T14:08:00.002-07:00

I think that the Sacrament Meeting that I attended on Sunday was one of the most powerful ones that I have been a part of. After not getting much sleep two nights in a row, and knowing that I had a somewhat long day ahead of me, I wanted nothing more than to catch a quick cat nap during sacrament meeting. As Bishop Parry stood up to announce the meetings program, we noticed that there was nobody, other than the bishopric sitting on the stand. Bishop proceeded to tell us of his love of music, and just how powerful it can be. There is always a time in one's life where a song that you have heard repeatedly throughout your life, but in one certain situation, as you hear the song played, the words will really stand out to you and make such an impact, and it is an experience that you do not forget. Our Bishop asked us all to participate in the meeting, if we felt so inclined to share with the rest of the congregation our favorite hymn, and why, followed by the congregation singing one verse of that hymn. I have never been so moved in my life, as to sit and hear some of the stories that have changed peoples lives, the experiences that they have had, and that stick with them. I can't remember a time in my life where I had gotten goosebumps over and over for more than an hour. That is truly a feeling that I will never forget!

.:Mia Lucille Sommers:.

2008-12-01T13:59:00.005-07:00

Cameron and Tammy welcomed their second child on Saturday. Mia was born Saturday morning, weighing in at 7 lbs 5 oz and 19 inches long. She is such a sweet little baby! Mom and baby are both doing well, and are planning to come home from the hospital on Tuesday! You can see her picture on the hospital website: click here

.:Good Ol' Country Livin':.

2008-11-14T13:36:00.004-07:00

Well, being unemployed can create some good boredom...even if you live in Morgan, (I know, hard to believe...) So, my dad was going to a class to get his concealed firearms permit, and asked if I wanted one and would like to come along. I thought, sure, why not?! (Not that I'm going to carry a gun all the time now, but I guess I have the option) So, after a 3 hour long class and managing to stay awake...I just have to wait for my background check to clear (fingers crossed, haha) and I'll have my concealed weapons permit! So, AFTER partaking in the class, my dad thought it would be a good idea to go and actually SHOOT some guns and get the practice in. We had a lot of fun! Valeria was in from Chicago, so she went up with us too...Barry and Jackson joined in on the fun...To all of you that thought I was such a city girl...I told you I'd prove you wrong!! :)

.:Last Day at Chipman and Taylor:.

2008-11-14T13:28:00.002-07:00

Well, Friday, October 31st was my last day at good ol' Chipman and Taylor. I am really going to miss that place, and especially the people. They treated me very well, and it was hard to say good-bye. A lot of tears were shed on the departure. The people that I met at the place will forever hold a special place in my heart! Thank you for all that you have done for me, and taught me! If only we could move the store to Utah!! :)

The beautiful flowers that Tom got for me, and my going away cake!

So hard to leave that place!!

.:Privacy:.

2008-11-05T08:47:00.000-07:00

I have thought about this for a couple of weeks, and I am going to be making my blog a little more private. If you would like to still check it my blog, you can send me your email address at shannon.sommers@yahoo.com, and I'll add you to the list. I will probably be changing it in the next week or so. I hope you are all doing well as the winter weather approaches us. Take care!

.:Find Yourself:.

2008-10-21T00:32:00.000-06:00

I was listening to my iPod tonight, as I was driving back from playing volleyball in Moscow, and the Brad Paisley song "Find Yourself" came on from the Cars Soundtrack. I was just about to skip to the next song, when I decided just to listen to it. I listened intently to the words, and was very pleasantly surprised. It, in a way, solidified my recent decisions, and the big move that I am about to make...I'm happy that I have finally found myself...sometimes we have to take our own road to get there, and it doesn't make sense to anyone else, but at some point we are able to find what it is we are looking for. Here's the lyrics to the song.
(The last verse is still a mystery in my life, but it will come when it's supposed to...I'm just patiently waiting! NO RUSH!!)

Find Yourself

When you find yourself

In some far off place

And it causes you to rethink some things

You start to sense that slowly

You're becoming someone else

And then you find yourself

When you make new friends in a brand new town

And you start to think about settlin' down

The things that would have been lost on you

Are now clear as a bell

And you find yourself

Yeah that's when you find yourself

Where you go through life

So sure of where you’re headin'

And you wind up lost and it's

The best thing that could have happened

Cause sometimes when you lose your way it's really just as well

Because you find yourself

Yeah that’s when you find yourself

When you meet the one

That you've been waitin' for

And he's everything that you want and more

You look at him and you finally start to live for someone else

And then you find yourself

That’s when you find yourself

When we go through life

So sure of where we're headin'

And we wind up lost and it's

The best thing that could have happened

‘Cause sometimes when you lose your way it's really just as well

Because you find yourself

Yeah that's when you find yourself

.:Plans Have Changed:.

2008-10-17T11:26:00.000-06:00

Well...The dealership had THOUGHT that they had someone to take over for me. Her first day was on Tuesday...Her name was Shannon, so that would be a pretty easy transition...right?! Haha. Well, she had a stroke at the beginning of the year, and brain surgery in July, needless to say, the whole job was a little too much too soon for her, and she decided that she shouldn't take it (not before trying to help me get a job with her old boss who now lives in Ogden). So, the dealership was kinda left stranded, and I felt bad for their predicament, so I talked with Tom, and decided to stay...but only a week and a half longer. Making my last day the 31st of October...which isn't all that bad, I guess. I still have trouble being here, and feel unmotivated. But I feel it was the best decision I could make without burning any bridges. So, to all of you in Utah...I'll be seein' ya the first part of November!

.:Whatever, Martha:.

2008-10-14T22:37:00.001-06:00

Shari and I are pretty good at making fun of television shows or movies as we watch them. So, we were thinking, we should create a tv show of us watching ANOTHER tv show and just doing our own commentary the whole time. Well....our worst nightmare has come true....!! As we were flipping through the channels tonight, we came across a show cleverly called, Whatever, Martha! and thought we'd check it out. Well, it's a show of two girls watching old episodes of "Martha Stewart Living" and making fun of it the whole time. Man, what is this world coming to...?!? WHATEVER, MARTHA!!

.:Red Barn Farms:.

2008-10-13T14:46:00.001-06:00

Well, I LOVE the fall! I love the colors! I just hope that we don't end up having too short of a fall. Saturday I joined Shari and her family and we went to a Fall Festival out in Colton, WA. They had so much stuff for the kids! It was really fun, although it made me a little sad to think this will be one of my last weekends in Pullman, with Shari and her family! :( I also managed to find a new boyfriend out there....he's a really good listener, and doesn't talk much...PERFECT! :) Hope everyone's enjoying the season as much as I am!

.:You Guessed It:.

2008-10-07T14:04:00.000-06:00

I'M MOVING BACK HOME TO UTAH!

After over five years of living in Washington, I have given work my 2 weeks notice and then I will be moving back to Morgan. My last day at Chipman and Taylor will be the 22nd of October. I am excited to make the move back home, but sad to leave the friends that I have met and learned from up here in Pullman. It's a good thing and I am ecstatic about the move. I will be seeing you all very soon!

.:A Song That I Wrote:.

2008-09-29T02:40:00.000-06:00

Comin' Home

Shannon Sommers

I never thought the day would come

As we hit the road with the risin' sun

My next chapter's about to start

And yet again my family's living apart

What does this journey hold for me

It's one of those things we just wait and see

Just don't wanna stay, but so scared to go

Is this right for me, just one way to know

There is no one there, I am on my own

Now I say goodbye- I am leaving home

He looked at me, he gave me a smile

A feeling that I hadn't felt in a while

He seemed so sweet and so sincere

I jumped right in and ignored the fear

He wasn't all that he had seemed to be

Not a man, but a boy-He wasn't meant for me

Just don't wanna stay, but so scared to go

Is this right for me, just one way to know

With no one here, I am on my own

Now we say goodbye, as I leave his home

I came and did what I needed to do

It took me more than just a year or two

I've been up so high, but oh, so down

Realized there's nothing like my own hometown

My things are packed, I'm ready to go

Back to the place filled with those I know

Just don't wanna stay, but so scared to go

Is this right for me, just one way to know

There is no one here, I've been on my own

As I wave goodbye, now I'm comin' home

Yes, I'm comin' home

I'm on my way back home

I love comin' home...

.:Quick Trip Home:.

2008-09-25T12:19:00.000-06:00

As most of ya'll know, my best friend from up here in Washington married my cousin Paul last Friday. Shari and I flew down for the party!! It was a whirlwind trip, but we had a ton of fun. Saturday we went up to the property in the Uintahs and played with Barry, Katie, Jackson, Tammy, Talmadge, Mom, and Dad. It was so much fun! Thanks for showing us a good time everyone! And a double thanks to Barry for the DELICIOUS dutch over dinner!! Mmm Mmm Good!! (with all the here and there we weren't able to get many pics, sorry!) Be back for another quick trip in a week!! haha

Me with Tasha's little guy Trenten. Just before I had to hold him for his 6 month shots...What a cute lil guy though!

My Best Friends Wedding! I wasn't to happy about catching the boquet! haha

One of my favorite childhood memories! Mount Baldy!! It was COLD!!

Nothing better than a photoshoot in a trailer...right?!?

.:A to Z:.

2008-09-16T15:33:00.000-06:00

A to Z

Thanks Tash!
A to Z
Let's see if you learn something new!
A- Attached or Single: ? Don't ask me, ask him!
B- Best Friend: Shari, Shareena, Tasha
C- Cake or Pie: Funfetti cake or banana cream pie!
D- Day of choice: Saturday please!
E- Essential Item: Phone, camera, flat iron...that list goes on...
F- Favorite Color: PINK, black, brown...
G- Gummybears or Worms: Worms
H- Hometown: Morgan
I- Indulgences:Ice Cream for sure!
J- January or July: July is nice and warm! (or hot!)
K- Kids: In the future. Everyone tells me it's different when they're my own....haha
L- Life is incomplete without: Family, friends, laughter and love
M- Marriage Date: TBD
N- Number of Siblings: 1 sister 3 brothers
O- Oranges or Apples: Apples if I have to choose
P- Phobias and Fears: spiders, snakes, mice...
Q- Quote: I have lots of favorites...
R- Reason to Smile: I like getting a text outta nowhere that you can't help but just smile!
S- Something new: Couple of shirts for the trip...
T- Tag: Katie! :)
U- Unknown facts about me: I write poems and songs that nobody has ever known about til recently
V- Vegetarian or Meat: Chicken.
W- Worst habit: I like too much sleep! Worry too much. Analytical.
X-rays or Ultrasound: ultrasound techs are brutal in the ER. When you gotta go and they are pushing down...not a good feeling. The X-ray tech told me to just flip her off when she was X-raying my broken finger! haha Gladly!
Y- Your Favorite Food: Shari's chicken alfredo, Phad Thai.

Z- Zoo Animal: Giraffe

.:First Step:.

2008-09-16T13:03:00.000-06:00

Well...I FINALLY got a chance to start working on my portfolio. Things have been a little crazy here with Shareena's wedding, and getting ready for a quick trip home, but I managed to sneak Shari's kids away for some pics while they went to town, and framed a few and surprised Shari with them. Here are a few of my favs!

(I haven't gotten PhotoShop fully installed, so they're not edited at all!)

.:There's Just Something About Going Home:.

2008-09-15T12:43:00.000-06:00

There's something about coming out of Weber Canyon and looking up and seeing the "M" up on the mountain, that's when you know that you are finally home, and it is such a good feeling! I have four days until I get to see that "M" and the time just will not pass soon enough! I'm just excited for that feeling of being home!

.:An Effort to Help My Sister:.

2008-09-11T00:08:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone. I have decided to set up a blog in efforts to help my sister in her adoption process, and along the way keep everyone involved informed of their progress. Please check it out, and if you can, help! :) Thanks to everyone!

http://waitingforourangel.blogspot.com/

.:Shane:.

2008-08-25T12:42:00.000-06:00

One of my really good friends that I have known since I've lived up here, just returned from his mission in the Cape Verde islands, off the West Coast of Africa. I drove over to Seattle for the weekend, so that I could be there for his homecoming, and see some other good friends for the weekend. So much was going on that I was able to only escape with one picture of the weekend!! Oh well! It was so good to see Shane!! Ya don't realize how much ya miss someone until they come back, but at the same time it was like he had never left! Love that kid! (even if he has turned over to the "dark side"...he's going to BYU! Not the right kind of Coug, that and being raised a Ute, I wasn't allowed to like BYU! haha)

.:Hand in Hand:.

2008-08-20T12:27:00.000-06:00

So, Shari and I had made the sign in book for Shareena's wedding, and she asked me to write a poem to put on the last page. This is what I came up with...Just thought I'd share it with ya'll!! Give me any feedback! Thanks!

.:Hand in Hand:.

Each individual journey starts at a very young age

Ever changing and growing with each turn of a page.

You always think you know what it is you're looking for

When someone the complete opposite walks through the door.

They sweep you off your feet, and steal your stubborn heart

From that moment forward, you don't like being apart.
As you study this person up close and from afar

Knowing full well they exceed where you once set the bar.

To you this committment is for all eternity

And so it begins, this amazing, worthwhile journey

Kneeling at the alter, gazing in each other's eyes

The love that consumes the room is really no surprise.

Looking down this new road, at the beginning you stand,

With the one you love standing by your side, hand in hand.

~Shannon Sommers Aug. 18, 2008

.:BiRtHdAy:.

2008-08-18T00:34:00.000-06:00

Well...it came and went...the big 2-3! (Johnny thought I was turning 21! haha) And low and behold, it all started at 12:01am with a Happy Birthday text from Jared...I left it at that, knowing that I had to be to work early because my new secretary had the day off, and I needed to get some sleep at some point...so, bright and early I got up and started getting ready for work..Shari kept calling because every year it's her goal to be the first to tell me happy birthday...(she's yet to succeed! haha) But, hurrying to get ready, and running a little late I didn't have time to talk to her, so, I called her back and talked to her on my way to work. Well, I got to work and Geoff was having a personal crisis so with that, and my secretary being gone...I was basically by myself in the office...kinda boring! haha The fingernail of the finger that I broke got ripped off in a freak candy bin accident, and I hit my elbow real hard on the corner of my desk. But onto happier things! haha My phone kept going off constantly, it's nice to have those that you love let you know that they are thinking of you on your birthday, and can take a second to call or text...a simple thing but it means a lot, especially since the majority of them live pretty far from me! I was pretty bummed leading up to my birthday, because for the last five years Shareena and I have done really fun things to celebrate birthdays, and so I was pretty sad that she couldn't be there for my birthday. She has always gotten me pink roses on my birthday too... Even though she couldn't be here, she didn't let me down...I was so surprised when I got a delivery of flowers from Shareena! They are so pretty! White daisies and of course, pink roses! Thanks Bean!! I love you!

Like I said, I had lots of voicemail that came in throughout the day. Johnny had called, as well as Tammy and Talmadge, Mandy, I got your message, thank you!...Ashley Jo's message cracked me up though...as I said, I was in the office by myself, so it was pretty quiet and I started listening to her message and just starting laughing out loud really hard, and everyone was looking at me like I was crazy!! Mom sang happy birthday to me while she was in the middle of JCPenny, and Dad called me at work and we talked for a bit, I had to cut it a little short since I had to answer phones...Geoff, my manager, with all that he had going on that day, he was still really sweet and got me a card with at gift card to Old Navy and brought me my favorite drink from Starbucks! Shari and the boys came in and brought me a really neat plant (hopefully I won't kill it cause it's really cool looking) and some new lounge pants that I love! along with some new hair product! Thanks Shari!! I went to lunch with a friend, Cassie, we decided to go on a picnic...it was actually really fun, and it was just nice talking to her! On the way back to work I had to stop and renew my driver's license...why don't those pictures ever turn out good? I swear!! FINALLY, 5:30 rolled around and the real party could begin! haha I was just excited cause I could finally call people back! I called and talked to Johnny for a bit, it was so nice to catch up with him, and Tammy, I tried to call you guys back, but couldn't track ya down!! Jared had told me earlier that he was going to pick me up at 6 and to not dress too comfortable (he knows that I'm pretty quick to put on the shorts and tank after work, especially with this heat we've had!) So, I hurried and got ready, and Jared came and picked me up...he was dressed in a shirt and tie and brought me a pink rose! It was really sweet (he had thought that the 15th was on Thursday and had gotten a limo to take us to dinner, but when he realized it was on Friday, they were booked and he couldn't get one for Friday, so no limo, but the thought was soooo sweet!!) We went to dinner, and he said that the rest of the night was up to me...we were trying to figure out what to do, and for me, I have ALWAYS done dinner with Shari and her fam on my birthday, and I wanted to spend time with them too, so we called them up and told them that we wanted them to join us for huckleberry shakes at Cougar Country (best shakes ever!!) We look forward to huckleberry shakes every summer, and when I was driving to work that morning they had put up the sign that they were finally here! (It really was my birthday!! haha) After shakes, we decided to just go back to my place, I wanted to watch the Olympics and see how Lindsey did in her race, plus Jared had to get up pretty early for work, and he has an hour drive home...All in all, it was a great day!!! I still love birthdays, and not just mine! So, thank you to everyone who let me know that you were thinking of me on Friday, it means so much!! I love you all, and will see you soon, I hope!!

(the pics that Shari took turned out better, but these will do until I get them from her!)

.:My Next Big Adventure:.

2008-07-30T10:45:00.000-06:00

With always having a LOVE of Photography, something said by someone, not realizing the impact that he had, and very thought provoking conversations with Shari, I have decided to start my own photography business. I am very excited to start this journey.

Being passionate about photography is in my nature. I have always had a fascination with art and imagery. I see passion, drama, truth and beauty in every moment. I can only hope to translate that into my work. As a photographer, my goal is to create stunning photos. I find a sense of fulfillment in this art that I don’t find anywhere else. All of my passions influence and affect my photographs. I am a hopeless romantic with a flare for style and glamour. I hope that in working with me, my clients will feel at ease, and they might even walk away with a new friend. I don't look at doing photography as a "job", but more of an obsession. I can only hope that I can gain inspiration and bring a dream of mine to life.

Now, I need your help...I am torn between a couple names for my business, and/or any suggestions you may have...there is a poll box on the side of the blog, so if you could choose which one you like best, or submit any ideas that you may have either by commenting on this post, or emailing me back.

Thanks to everyone for their input, and most of all for those of you that inspire and support me in all of my decisions. You have all had some sort of impact on the decisions that I make! I love you all more than you know! Thanks again, Shannon

.:Writing:.

2008-07-27T18:42:00.000-06:00

One thing that I don't think that most people know about me, is that I like to write...it's my way of expressing myself and my emotions...I have been doing so for about six years now, and seldom share with others what I have written...I'm going to try to let people in a little bit more...I wrote a poem about my dad shortly after he had major surgery removing a large tumor, being very scared and unsure of what my family's future had in store (this would be when I first turned to writing as a release 6 years ago)...Unfortunately I cannot seem to find it and it makes me so mad! So, I gathered my thoughts today and came up with something similar...

.:The Other Superman:.

There is a man-he is called Superman
And of this man I am his number one fan.
I'm not just going along with a fad
Because this Superman's name is simply Dad.
Always standing so big and so tall
But when you're little every thing's big after all.
Doing all he could to keep us all at ease
Wanting nothing, but all of us to please.
Then all of the sudden we got a phone call
Dad is sicker than we thought after all.
A man who rarely even caught a cold
Now making sure as a family we would not unfold.
Quickly I found it hard to be home
All of the sudden I felt so alone.
I find myself praying with all of my might
Please don't let this be MY Superman's kryptonite.
The tumor is bigger than they had thought
I can now feel my stomach turning into a knot.
How can this happen-this can't be his only chance
Because at my wedding I want my daddy dance.
Moving from panic quickly to prayer
I look to my left and see my Superman laying there.
He has always stood so tall and so strong
This must be a dream, it just feels so wrong.
He finally came home, but the days just seemed longer
Quietly observing him daily, he slowly got stronger.
The years have past and just looking you wouldn't know
What my Superman has been through, with just a scar to show.
Father by day, Superman by night
The best example to me has won this fight.
So many followers a Superman has had
But mine will always be the man I simply call Dad.

.:Memories:.

2008-07-21T17:21:00.000-06:00

--THE RULES--
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.
PRETTY FUN HUH---HOPEFULLY YOU PLAY:)

.:Oops, I did it again:.

2008-07-16T21:19:00.000-06:00

Just bought plane tickets to U - to the - tah in September...Ready, or not, here we come....!

I feel like I'm buyin plane tickets like they're goin' outta style!! Oh well, definitely worth it!!

See ya'll again soon!! :)

.:Utah trip: July 2008:.

2008-07-12T17:48:00.000-06:00

Last day (July 8th):

Katie had to work, so mom was watching Jackson, since I fell asleep the night before during the movie I didn't get a chance to say goodbye to Cam, Tammy, and Talmadge, so, Mom, Jackson, and I walked over to their apartment to say goodbye real quick...which was a bad idea apparently, Jackson DID NOT want t0 leave his cute little cousin...back home to pack real quick and we headed down to Ogden...we went to dinner at Lucky China or something, where Jackson wanted to play the claw game over and over...finally we ate some lunch, then made our way to the Aerospace Museum...I love going there with Dad and hearing the neat stories about the different airplanes, and their purposes...The time came, and we were off to the airport...my flight was scheduled to leave at 5:35pm, so after some negotiating, I convinced Dad to drop me off at 4! (He likes to make sure you have plenty of time to get through security! haha) Well, turns out I had more than enough time! My flight to Seattle, where I was supposed to have a 2 hour layover, kept getting pushed back, and then eventually cancelled...So, I had changed my flight to go through Portland, well, as luck would have it, that flight kept getting pushed back as well, so, I finally boarded a plane in SLC at 9:20pm...I arrived in Portland at 10:20pm and had to wait there for and hour and a half before finally getting onto a plane at midnight, and arriving in Spokane at 1am to find out that the airline had lost my luggage! Looks like we coulda caught that movie ya didn't think we'd have time for Dad!! haha

Day 5 (July 7th):

I ran over to Nielsen's to chat with Susi for a bit in the morning, and then Katie and I were off for the day. We went down to Lehi so that I could see a doctor for my anxiety, which has gotten worse in the last few months, and then back to Layton to do some quick shopping, a chiropractor appointment, and then back home for some Papa Murphy's pizza that Katie and I picked up while we were out and about... The doctor appointment was such and amazing experience, I let Katie sit in on the therapy session, and I discovered a lot of things about myself, and my family, and hopefully I will be able to better cope with my anxiety. Mom and Dad just remodeled the bathroom in the hallway, and I wanted to get her some new accessories to put in it, so we hit every store we could think of, but didn't have much luck! Finally, at our last attempt we found it! (Isn't that how it always goes?!) After we got home and quickly transformed the bathroom, we had some pizza and just talked about my experience earlier that day...Katie and I had picked up The Bucket List while we were out too, so we threw that in, I didn't make it far, but it had been a long and emotional day for me... As we were arriving at my doctors appointment, Mom called and told us that Jackson had taken about 7 steps, and after we got home, he walked a couple of more times for me, and I was able to capture a bit of it on my camera...He is getting so strong and coming along so well! I'm so proud of that little guy!!

Day 4 (July 6th):

I was ripped out of bed and told that Aunt Debby would be at the house in 15 minutes to pick us up to go to Linsey's baby's blessing in West Haven, so I quickly got ready and ran out the door, Deb got us there rather quickly, but we were still alive, so it was all good! It felt good to be at home where I was able to go to that kind of a family gathering, I do miss the convenience of being around for that! We went to the park by Linsey's house for a quick bite, then hurried back to Morgan so that Mom could teach her lesson. We made it for most of Sacrament Meeting, and then off to Mom and Dad's class...I love sitting in on their class and listening to them teach! Although, the one time I was asked a question, Katie had distracted me by asking what we were having for dinner....haha I headed home after Sunday school to take a nap while everyone else finished out church, so that I didn't have to nap while they were all at the house, besides, I had already gotten my 3 hours in, right?! After dinner, Katie and I pulled out the DDR, SingingStar, and Guitar Hero...we got Dad to do some DDR and Guitar Hero...Now that was a site to see!! I have a video of Dad doing DDR and if he'll let me I'll post it, or post it and wait til he finds it! haha And then my cousin Paul came up so that we could make a video for the bridal shower that I was going to be throwing for Shareena the weekend after I got home! We had such a good time making the videos, and laughed so hard! We were pretty tired, but managed to still be creative with it, or so we thought anyway! :)

Day 3 (July 5th):

Bright and early Dad, Katie, Barry, and I hit ol Round Valley for some golf...I wasn't sure how I would do because my finger still wasn't doing too well, but I couldn't not go golfing while I was home...I did relatively well considering I was missing a finger...Not to mention that Dad and Barry made me look a little better too, haha, they both had some struggling rounds, but even Tiger has a bad day! After golf Tasha and her sister MacKenzie came over. It was soooo good to see Tash! I miss her so much, and I got to see her little boy Trenten for the first time. He is such a cute little kid! I'm so happy for Tash and the wife and mother that she has become! She wasn't able to stay for very long, but it was still good to talk to her. So, Drew and I went to Larry's Spring Chicken Inn for some lunch, and then I wanted to go to the cemetery to see my Grandpa Johanson's head stone, I hadn't seen it yet, and it was beautiful! We wandered around for a bit and took some pictures by Grandpa Sommers' grave as well. It was just a peaceful feeling to visit those that have influenced your life so much, and have passed on...I got home and prepared myself for Grandma Sommers' annual steak fry! She usually has it later on in July, but her nephew and his family from Virginia were in town visiting, so we all got together. I love when family parties happen when I'm in town! It is such a wonderful oppurtunity to see everyone and their little growing families! It's weird to see all my cousins and siblings raising their own families now! That night we went to Cam and Tammy's to play some games that I had brought down! We had so much fun and laughed so hard! It was definitely a night to remember! It reminded me of how wonderful of a family I have...they are hilarious to be around!

Day 2 (July 4):

I woke up to Barry and Jackson coming over for breakfast. I was so happy to see them! It took a bit for Jackson to warm up but all it took was some serious jumping on the trampoline to get him to like me again...that and giving him treats when his mom wasn't looking, but don't tell Katie! haha Cam, Tammy, and Talmadge came over for breakfast too...nobody can pass up one of Dad's breakfasts!! We chilled at Mom and Dad's for most of the day, until Barry and Jackson had to leave to go to Katie's parents for their celebration, and Cam had to work...So, I made my way over to Grandma Sommers to visit with her, because even though we were having a party at her house the next day, I knew that I wouldn't really get to talk to her as much as I wanted because of the comotion of everyone being there. I had gotten her a deck of Cougar cards, and she told me that I couldn't mail them, if I wanted her to have them, then I would have to deliver them myself! So, I did what I was told...After talking to Grandma for a bit, I heard Barry and Katie pull up...Katie came around the corner pretty quick, I had been there a day and a half and hadn't seen her yet, she had stayed at her parents house because she was running in a 5K on the Fourth. So, we all sat and visited with Grandma...one of all of our favorite things to do! After a while we went back home to have a BBQ and when it got dark enough we would start lighting some fireworks...Cam was lighting them, and then he turned over the reigns to me...this was the first time that I was going to be allowed to be a part of the firework show! (I now see why they never let me, it took me a while to get the fireworks to light! Or maybe it was the lack of practice in lighting them...yeah, I'll go with that! :) After our own little show, we walked over to the elementary school to watch the city fireworks. I hadn't been home for the Fourth for quite a while, so the city show wasn't all that bad! (not that it was ever "bad")

Day 1 (July 3):

After 4-5 hours in the airport, I made it to SLC. Dad, Mom, Tammy, and Talmadge were there waiting for me! It was a nice to come out of the airport and see them! We made a quick stop at Subway to get some dinner, and then we were off to Lagoon...about a half hour drive, right?! Well, Utah traffic is BEAUTIFUL, and we made it to the gates of Lagoon about 2 hours later...Talk about a little built up frustration! Well, we got in there and off to roller coaster land we went!! I absolutely LOVE riding coasters with my dad! Not many old fold will ride em like he will! :) First ride we went on was call Wicked...and wicked it was! It starts off going straight up 90 degrees...but makes a quick change and goes straight DOWN at a 90 degree angle...yes, staring at the asphalt, plummeting to your death! It was the scariest ride that I think that I had been on! It was sooo fun though! We went on another new one that is called the Spider...that one gives ya a rush too! After we got off the flight Annette and her kids were there to greet us. I had promised Talmadge that I would take him on the "Dragon ride"...so, off we went and it was one of the funniest things to watch his face! We were able to hit some other pretty good rides, but seeing my dad after Rattle Snake Rapids and being drenched was pretty hilarious! I had never seen my dad's hair not done! We left Lagoon around 11pm, but don't you worry, the excitement wasn't even close to being over! We went to pick up Barry's truck which had mom and dad's new bed in it. So, we were following Dad home, and the wind from the canyon picked up the head board and flipped it out of the truck in the middle of the highway...we pulled over and mom took off across the highway...as she opened the door to get out, we heard the sound of a car running over the head board! Mom and Tammy ran over and drug the head board over to the side of the road! I would have helped more, but I was missing shoes because Mom was wearing mine! We got Dad to turn around, and we got the headboard back in the truck and strapped down, and then preceded to make our way home...I definitely had more excitement than I was expecting in being at home! It turned out to be an interesting, yet successful trip!

In closing:

Thank you all for taking out the time to spend with me while I was there! You all do your best to make it a memorable experience! You are all so wonderful, and I love and appreciate you so much! I hope that you all realize how much you mean to me! You are definitely the world to me!! Thank you so much again for a trip to remember and I will see you all again next time!

.:The best example I didn't realize I had:.

2008-06-22T11:29:00.000-06:00

As I said in my last post, I broke my finger pretty good, and I am still in a splint for the next, at least two weeks. Well...the finger that I broke is on my right hand, my writing hand...so I have been writing left handed for the last month, I have improved from a kindergartner to maybe a fourth grader as far as penmanship is concerned! You have to focus and concentrate so hard to write with the opposite hand to make it somewhat legible. A few days ago I wrote a five backwards and I got so upset! The frustration of knowing your abilities and seeing them in your head, and not being able to perform them as you know you can is very disheartening. Which goes further than writing...the everyday mundane things that you do, that you don't think not having one little finger to use would affect you all that much...but washing your hair, brushing your teeth, make-up, holding a phone, typing, etc...It seems that all things have been slowed down because of a measly finger being broken...As I was feeling sorry for myself the other day, it really got me to thinking that IT IS just a measly little finger...I can still walk, I can still work, I can still laugh, I can still play guitar hero...So what if I have to wake up a few minutes early to get ready...As I was putting things into perspective, someone came to mind...a special someone...my nephew Jackson.

Jackson Ray Sommers

As I thought about him, and the struggles that he has had, and the frustrations that he encounters on a daily basis, he still has a smile on his face. He has got to be one of the happiest 2 year olds I've seen. Just seeing a picture of him, or hearing his voice in the background makes me smile, from the inside out...Let alone when I am able to be in is amazing presence, I am the proudest aunt. Don't get me wrong, I love all of my nieces and nephews very much! There is just a very special spirit about Jackson that is always apparent! The amount of patience the he has, in a very impatient world is remarkable. When he is with his cousins and they are all running around, he just crawls his fastest to keep with them, smiling and giggling the entire time! And the amount of pride you can see in his face when he has his walker and can walk around is heart warming! I've always said that I hope the he will walk, and you look at his face and see in his eyes that he has faith that he will walk...He is always teaching all involved in his life quiet lessons, that you won't learn unless you sit and think about them...which has taken me two years to finally learn a lesson that he has taught me. Our Father in Heaven does not give us challenges that He knows that we will not be able to handle...so if my biggest challenge so far has been a broken finger and I can barely handle that...I can't imagine what a wonderful man that Jackson will grow up to be!! He gets stronger everyday, and because of him, my family's faith grows stronger every day as well... I know that there are many people out there that have struggles and frustrations on a higher level, and I cannot fathom having to deal with that, but I can only speak from personal experience, as I've watched my own family...Jackson has taught me so much, I can't wait to learn more! Although one of the youngest in my family, he is one of the strongest! Heavenly Father gave him the best parents possible! Barry and Katie have done such a wonderful job in raising this little guy! He wouldn't be close to this happy anywhere else! I'm excited to see the progress that will take place now that he is able to go to Shriner's Hospital! He knows no limits! I love all of my family very much and am so thankful to them for their love and support in return! I would be very lost without them! And to Jackson: Thank you for all of life's lessons! I feel as though I have failed you as an aunt, because I'm supposed to be the one teaching and helping you! You may be small, but you are one of my biggest examples in every aspect! I love you so much my little angel!!

If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together.. there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart.. I’ll always be with you.

~Aunt Shanni~

.:Skippin:.

2008-06-07T02:18:00.001-06:00

Sooo...Jairden and I were happily skippin along the river walk...

And when I'm just about to give the perfect smile to the camera, this dog, in his tie-dye shirt GROWLS at me...and anyone who knows me, knows that dogs don't necessarily top my list...

Anyhow, Shari and I thought that these pictures turned out to be pretty classic, so I thought I'd share them with ya'll...! Can't wait to see everyone soon! Loves!

.:It's Official:.

2008-06-02T23:46:00.000-06:00

I booked my plane tickets for Utah today...I'll get in Thursday July 3rd in the afternoon, and I'll be in town until Tuesday the 8th in the evening...I can't wait to see everyone!!!

.:Memorial Day Weekend:.

2008-05-30T13:51:00.000-06:00

For Memorial Day weekend I went and visited my friends Ashley and Kristen over in Camas, WA...About 20 mins north of Portland, OR...I had already had the trip planned, and then the attorney for the dealership came in and purchased a new car for his daughter that lives in Portland, so they asked me to drive the new Malibu over and pick up the Trailblazer that they would be trading in...which meant that I ended up not having to pay for gas for my whole trip, which was nice! Saturday, we went to a bridal shower for Kristens cousin, whom I met about 5 minutes before the shower...Then we went down to Portland to exchange the vehicles, and meet up with my cousin Grace that is living in Portland, and the four of us went to Applebee's for a very entertaining dinner, we had a ton of fun! As we were about to leave, we looked outside and it was pouring down rain...it was crazy! We headed back to Ashley's and threw in a movie to fall asleep to. Ashley's mom was in the process of moving, so Sunday, I told Ashley that I would like to help her mom, at least for a little while...we, along with Ashley's brother and sister-in-law, helped as much as we could...as the day was winding down, we stopped by Burgerville for a quick bite to eat before our last loads...the last load of the day was the fridge, we managed to get it up in the back of the pickup rather easily...as we were trying to unload it, Joel, Ashley, and I made a ramp out of two 2x12 pieces of wood. I was at the bottom of the "ramp" to make sure it didn't budge...well, needless to say...the ramp moved and the ramp, Ashley, and the fridge landed on my right middle finger. After icing it as much as I could stand, Ashley washed my hair over the side of the tub, and we got ready to go and do something else that night...we ended up at Shari's Restraunt, along with Kristen and their friend Ben...after a difficult meal, we were off to the 24 hour WalMart to play around...and then again, back to Ashley's to watch a movie...as the movie got over it was about 4 am, but we jumped in the car and went to visit some other friends..which put us going to bed around 6am...we're young, right?! Monday, we got up a little later, obviously, and got ready and went on a tour of Camas, did some shopping at Kohl's, and then grabbed a quick bite, and some ColdStone ice cream for dessert, and then I was back on the road, headed for Pullman. Well, after a full day at work, I went up to the hospital to get some x-rays on my finger, just to prove to my mom that it wasn't broken...After 3 hours in the hospital, I got the news that my finger is broken in 3 places, and not looking (or feeling) all that great...So, I'm in a splint, with a careful eye on some things that the doc told me to watch, or I'll have to get some surgery done. So, I guess Mom was right, it was broken, and it is definitely not fun to deal with, but oh well...such is life..all in all, it was a great weekend, and I'm so glad I was able to go!! (P.S. this was very difficult to type, just so ya'll know! haha)

Kristen, Ashley, Grace, and I at Applebee's

We convinced our waiter to help us out with a picture too

We tend to forget we have camera's until we are driving in the car...you'll notice

The girls at our best...about 2:30 in the morning

Saying goodbye to Ashley's momma

The beginning stages of the finger...didn't look all that bad yet

Icing my finger in a smoothie shop in Vancouver, WA...

.:First Swings of the Year:.

2008-05-18T23:53:00.001-06:00

Shari and Brady got the boys some golf clubs...so we all headed out to the driving range to try them out...and then remembered that it probably wasn't our best idea...Poor people that were there! Haha My roommate Tiffany came along for the ride...Josh picked up on it pretty quick, I'm gonna see what he will charge to give Shari lessons...hahaha...I think that Jace will catch on, but struggle with the patience part..And as for Jairden...he got it the best out of any of them! I was standing next to him, and he swung and missed..yelled, "DANG IT!!!" threw his club down and stomped off...funniest thing I'd seen in a LONG time!! We did have a good time though!

What golfing should like like...

He got pretty into it, but managed to break all three of his clubs...

Shari....(don't tell her, but the ball is still on the tee...)

We start em out young...

Tiffany even got some swings in...

Josh quite possibly has a future in this...I was rather impressed with his golf skills...

Wow...Nice form Jace!! I'm sure that my dad is cringing right about now...

With three boys it was quite the task...we all left alive though...

.:You betcha...we still had family here:.

2008-05-18T23:33:00.000-06:00

We still had Cam's family in town...along with mom and dad...so for their last night we took them down to the river walk and to downtown Pullman to Lick's for some ice cream! We really enjoyed having family in our neck of the woods...it can get hectic, but what would time with family be if it weren't hectic...?

Little Jairden and Talmadge were inseparable...they just crack me up! They wanted to watch a show, so we sent them up to Shari and Brady's room, and they just looked so cute and small...

Cam and Brady barbequed some hamburgers and hot dogs for all of us...looks like everything's a go...

A picture of campus that I took that I thought turned out kind of neat...

Talmadge was worried Shari wouldn't make it up the hill, so he stretched out his hand and said, "I'll help you"...ADORABLE!

Almost to Licks...Mmmm...

.:Chipman & Taylor 20th Annual Classic Car Show:.

2008-05-18T23:19:00.001-06:00

The one time that I don't mind "working" on a Saturday..(except when the family's in town...) The car show is such a fun weekend...we have over 150 entries every year...we serve free hot dogs and coke...so I get to hang out in the coke trailer and serve everyone their drinks, and BS with everyone that stops by...it's really a fun event to be able to be a part of!

Jerry (the parts manager) taking a break from all the grueling work...

The boys enjoying the cars...

Penny and I serving up some Coca-Cola like you've never seen...

.:More Family:.

2008-05-18T22:46:00.001-06:00

Unfortunately, right before Cam and Tammy came up we got the news that our Dad's Uncle Ivan had passed away. He lived in Pasco, WA, which is about 2 hours from where Shari and I live, so mom and dad called to let us know that they, along with Grandma Sommers, Debby, Joanne, and Kim would be coming up to the funeral...so, Shari got a babysitter for the boys, and I took the day off work and Cam, Tammy, Shari, and myself went to Pasco to attend the funeral as well...It was nice to see family that we hadn't seen in a very long time, although it wasn't under the best of circumstances...After the funeral everyone came up to Pullman to see where we live and stay the night before making the long drive back to Morgan...Mom and Dad stayed and drove home with Cam and Tammy a day later...

It was a beautiful day for the funeral...

I made them pretend they liked each other...

Ketra, Shari, Me, Rachael, and Debby...she got in trouble for this....She had to sit at the kiddie table...

Sommers Rd. Located not far from Colfax, WA...on our way from Pasco to Pullman...We think people were looking at us funny...haha...

Grandma by Sommers Rd.

Grandma wanted to treat us all to dinner...so we had our own room at Thai Ginger...TONS of food, yummy dinner, thanks Grandma!!

Apparently no one wanted to sit down to talk...standing is the new thing...

At least Kim will look at the dang camera! Thanks Kimmy...

Some intense card playing...Mom slapped Tammy pretty good...Don't get her way when it comes to cards...

Grandma stayed up pretty late to get some cards in...It was soooo good to have family up here...a nice little change...

.:Family Visits:.

2008-05-18T22:07:00.000-06:00

Bring the fried chicken, and they will come...

Tammy and I right before the hike up to the top...

We Sommers' have a good support system...

Cameron and Talmadge at the half way mark...Talmadge is such a cheeser...

Cameron, Tammy, and Talmadge came up to visit us for a few days...It was really nice to see them...and to see how much Talmadge is growing and learning...and how much their family is growing...(they told they were expecting, and due in December)...I am so excited for them! The weather is finally starting to get a little better up here, so we were able to do some things out doors while they were here...one thing was to go to Kamiak Butte and have some fried chicken, and then hike to the top of the Butte and look over the Palouse...it's a beautiful view!

The four boys at the top of the Butte...

Talmadge and I overlooking the Palouse hills...

Some of the really pretty sunflowers we came across...

Absolutely one of the cutest things I've ever seen...

.:The end of a Season:.

2008-05-07T12:31:00.000-06:00

We had our end of the season volleyball party on Friday, May 2. It was good to see all of the girls again...We ate pizza, played volleyball in the backyard, (well, the girls did, Ashley and I sat back and watched, laughed, and took pictures...) Followed by some ice cream, a speech by Ron...Ashley and I made the girls some picture frames to remember the season by, and we took some pictures...As we were trying to leave the girls bombarded us with hugs, and made sure to get our numbers, double checking if we had text...haha They were a great group of girls, and I am going to miss them so much!! Wonderful memories...

.:Road Trip:.

2008-04-23T22:44:00.001-06:00

Just as we are leaving the Palouse...

Visiting Devil's Slide...

Tammy and Jackson...

Talmadge stopped for a second so I could snap a quick picture...

Like mother like son....CHEEEESE...

I have always planned out my trips home pretty far in advance...so when I called my mom on Monday and said I'll see ya Saturday morning, it kinda threw her for a loop! I think that she called me at least twice a day for the next three days to see if I was still really coming! But at 5:30pm on Friday, I clocked out of work and Ashley, Shareena, and I hit the road...Nine and half hours later, we were passed out in the bedroom at my parents house! We woke up to the smell of Dad cooking a delicious breakfast, and Katie and Jackson stopped by to say hi! My friend Blanche came up from Provo to stay and we just spent the time in Morgan and made the most of our day! Mom picked up some Chicken Hut chicken and the fam came over for some dinner and visiting...Of course went to bed waaaay too late and woke up waaaaaay too early, but hit the road and we were on our way back to good ol Pullman! Good trip!!

Blanche, Ashley, and I taking the grand tour of Morgan...didn't take long...

At the Morgan Park...not much else to do...

Almost home...we don't look tired at all, do we...

.:Momma's girls:.

2008-04-23T22:26:00.000-06:00

Mom came up to stay with Shari while Brady was gone to Asia for two weeks on business...we had a great time together! While she was here, we went and got some pictures taken of just the girls...since we didn't have time to do so when we had family pictures taken in November. My only advice...don't play digital Catch Phrase with Mom!!

.:Volleyball:.

2008-04-14T22:05:00.000-06:00

Our season began in January with 8 very motivated 7th and 8th graders! Our first tournament was up in Spokane, and the girls had us worried that it was going to be a rough season...I think that they were just testing us as coaches! Every tournament after that, they made it to the championship game, taking either first or second! They grew so much as individuals, and as a team! Their last tournament was Best in the West, up in Spokane, again...They went undefeated all day, with all games being very intense and close, but pulling it off in the end! When the championship game came around, we found out that we were playing the team that had given us the hardest time...after pulling off a win in the first game, they struggled in the second....but determined to win they battled as hard as they could in the third game and in the end they lost 15-13! We were so proud of our girls for not giving up and leaving their hearts on the court...they took 2nd out of 48 teams, which in our eyes wasn't bad at all...especially looking back at the very first tournament...