I am thankful for EVERYONE.......

It is literally with tear-filled eyes that I write my last "thankful post" for the month.  You may think it is a cop-out to thank EVERYONE, but I truly am grateful for EVERYONE.  After reading my former thankful posts, I have come to realize that everyone I have encountered in my life has affected me somehow.  From the store clerk who gave me a compliment to my teacher who taught me how to french braid, to the ornery lady in a long line, to the beggar on the street, I have been affected.  I will be forever changed by those who have made my life easier and by those who I struggled with........perhaps it is during these times of struggle where I can chart my biggest growth in life.  So, here is a shout out to the world for changing my life!  Thank you!

PEOPLE

I am thankful for doctors, nurses, etc.

Today I am grateful for doctors, nurses and everyone in the medical field who make living in the United States a blessing.  Brady fell on his head after slipping on the ice at school today.  We took him to the E.R. where he received a CAT scan and great medical attention.  I am not only thankful for medical personnel, but I am thankful for all service workers who make living in the United States so safe and great.  For example: our mail"woman," firefighters, policemen, garbage man, U.D.O.T. (Yes, even them), dentists (you know I am truly grateful if I mention dentists--I fear them), etc., etc., etc..........

God bless the U.S.A.!

BRADY IN THE EMERGENCY ROOM WITH A CONCUSSION   

I am thankful for a living prophet

I am grateful for a living prophet on the earth today. I am grateful that the Lord still communicates through his prophets in our day.  I am grateful for the example of our prophet and the leaders of our church--when I listen to them I am ALWAYS moved to be a little better.  Thank you!

PRESIDENT MONSON, PRESIDENT EYRING, PRESIDENT UCHTDORF 

I thought the picture below was quite funny....

I am thankful for the people of Mexico (and for cousins-in-law :)

I am thankful for those that I taught on my mission and for my mission companions.  All of my companions were from Mexico (except for Sister Pack) and I learned so much from them.  They taught me about humility, working hard, serving others and having faith.  I have never met a more giving people than the people in Mexico and they have faith that can truly move mountains.  I am grateful for those that I taught on my mission because they had the courage and faith to follow the Savior.  Tracy Hill Smith was one of these.  Tracey was an exchange student from New York--what are the chances of meeting her in Mexico?  We gave her the discussions in English and after a series of true miracles, she decided to be baptized.  After her baptism, she returned to New York and then served a mission to Argentina.  Below is a picture of Tracey, her husband Jason, and Elizabeth Michele (love the name :) after they were sealed in the American Fork Temple.  Tracey and her family live in Saratoga Springs and Tracey and I work at American Fork Hospital together as nurses.

TRACEY HILL SMITH

I am thankful for ancestors

Today I pay tribute and give thanks to the many ancestors who have paved the way before me.  Below is a picture of one of my ancestors: Eliza Cusworth Burton Staker.  Eliza is an example of strength and courage.  She was a member of the Martin Handcart Company and she traveled as a single mother with her children.  She crossed the Sweetwater River many times taking each of her children across-she was very independant.  I can't imagine being a single mother........period........but I can't imagine being a single mother pulling your own handcart across the plains.  She and her children were numbered among the survivors of the Martin Handcart Company and her amazing story is told at Martin's Cove in Wyoming.  When I think of her, I feel like I can do anything.  Thank you, Eliza, for your great example of love and courage!  I am thankful for ALL of my ancestors and for their lives and legacies.  I can't wait to meet each of you..........actually, I would rather wait a little while longer.  :)

I am thankful for my Savior

On the one day of the year where we are supposed to be the MOST grateful, I am MOST grateful for my Savior and Heavenly Father.  My Savior is my friend, counselor and example.  He has held my hand through many trials of my life and carried me through others.  Because of him, I can live forever and be forgiven of my (many) sins.  To him, I owe everything and without him, I am nothing.  I know our Heavenly Father literally hears and answers EVERY prayer and I know I am a daughter of a King.

I love my Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ--and today I express my deepest and most heartfelt gratitude. 

I am thankful for aunts and uncles

Where would I be today without cackling laughter, great food, jokesters pulling coins out of my ear, or relatives who squeeze me to death?  I'll tell you where I would be.............not as happy as I am today.  I simply adore my aunts and uncles--they have taught me so much.  I love laughing with them and learning from them.  So, here's to you, family!

Linda and Mike Carlston

Karon and Clair Oldroyd

Larry and Peggy Staker

Scott Staker

Cathy and Bryant Bench

Lynn and Judy Reid

I am thankful for cousins

I am thankful for all of my cousins who helped make the memories I have in my head.  Where would I be today without memories of "Jail," Mary Poppins, Gilligan's Island, Walking to the Cafe, Tractor Rides, Basketball, Dart Boards, FHE nights and that blasted Barbie Mansion (with awesome elevator) that the Carlston girls had that I coveted my whole growing up years?  So, here is a shout out to my peeps (a.k.a. cousins) for helping me feel like I belong to something bigger:

Carrie, Kevin, KrisTina, Cory and Kenneth Carlston

Troy and Jody Oldroyd

Mike, Matt, Megan and Mindy Staker

Jeff, Stacy, Amy, Danny, Ryan and Jason Bench

Debbie and David Reid

I am thankful for Mission Presidents

I am grateful for President and Sister Robison who taught me so much while I was on my mission in Mexico.  President Robison always tries to do what is right and he is consistent--you always know he will choose the right and follow the Savior.  Sister Robison was like a mother to me on my mission.  I love her sense of humor and I knew she loved me.  Thanks to both of you for helping to shape my life.

 LOWELL AND KATHY ROBISON

(Aren't they cute grandparents?) 

I am thankful for my illustrator

After weeks and days and days and weeks of work, Carol has finished the illustrations for our new project coming out in the spring.  She did all of this work while being a mother to many boys and she had a little baby boy tugging at her skirt.  I am so grateful for her and the miracle that brought us together.  Here is a picture of Carol and a "sneak peek" of a picture in our new book.

 CAROL SHELLEY XANTHOS (Cool name, huh?)

I am thankful for TOFW friends and TOFW speakers

I did not write a "thankful" post yesterday because I was at "Time Out for Women" with 10 ladies from my ward--it was amazing!  So, I am going to do a "double post" and thank the ladies I was with this weekend and the inspirational speakers that spoke to us (I will include their pictures when I get them).  Here is a picture of my peeps at the TOFW conference in SLC:

This is why I am thankful for these ladies from left to right:

(Robin, Dena, Tracy, Jen, Lori, Jenifer, Me, Chris, Carianna, Linda, and Kristina)

ROBIN is very approachable and she is full of kindness.  I think she is everyone's friend because she is so likeable.  Robin has a gentleness about her that is so endearing and calming.

DENA was introduced to us last night-she was a friend of Tracy's, but she fit right in.  She has the most beautiful smile-WOW!  Colgate commercial, here she comes!

TRACY is our Laurel adviser, but she is also my friend.  Tracy just makes you happy being around her because she radiates happiness.  Tracy has a contagious laugh and is a great interviewer/listener.

JEN is a joy to be around because she is real--she doesn't try to put on a show about how awesome she is (even though she is).  Jen has MANY Christlike attributes and is fun to be around.

LORI has more talent in her little finger than I will ever have.  Lori is stalwart and always tries to do what is right.  She is a great listener and lets others shine......even though she is a beacon of light.

JENIFER is so adorable because she has an innocence about her.  She has a humble way that makes her so loveable.  I love Jen because she dares to try new things.

CHRIS is a great example of love and service.  She always thinks more of others than of herself.  She has a great sense of humor and is a great homemaker/mother.  She strives to better herself everyday.

CARIANNA is capable and stalwart--you always know you can depend on Carianna.  She is very generous and is always doing acts of service.  You can feel that she is firm in her testimony.

LINDA is truly concerned about you and your life.  She knows more about people than anyone because she asks!  She doesn't let the "little things" get in the way of the things that matter most.

KRISTINA is transparent and is willing to open her heart and love to others.  She freely gives compliments to everyone and makes them feel like a million bucks.  Kristina is tender and sweet.

HERE ARE A FEW MORE PICS FROM THE CONFERENCE:

Mariama Kallon

Hilary Weeks

Dallyn Vail Bayles

I am thankful for Dr. Hoopes

Well, I wouldn't feel right if I didn't thank Dr. Hoopes today.  Chad had Lasik surgery today and I made the mistake of watching it--holy cow!!!  I was grateful for trained doctors who make eye incisions with three million dollar lasers--I felt like I was in an episode of Star Trek.  I also don't think I was the right person to escort Chad at this type of surgery because I was cringing every time they even came near his eye.  I don't think it helped when I told him to get a good look at me and the kids before we left our home just in case something went drastically wrong--probably not the best thing to say before eye surgery.  :)

I am thankful for great teachers

My list wouldn't be complete without thanking teachers that have made a difference in the lives of my children.  My children have had MANY great teachers, but the ones on this list have an extra special "something."  Here are a few of our all-time favorite teachers:

MRS. EMPEY

 Okay...this was Halloween (Mrs. Empey doesn't normally dress as a baseball player in class).  Mrs. Empey (Brady's 5th grade teacher) is one of those teachers that you pray your child gets-she has changed Brady's life this year.  Mrs. Empey has the largest class in the school, but you wouldn't know it.  When you walk in her classroom, it feels like a college classroom--the kids are on task and working with respect.  She has total control of the classroom--not by force or anger--but because of respect.  Brady's handwriting has improved so much this year.  I asked him why and he said, "Because Mrs. Empey expects it out of me."  Boy.......these kids will rise to the occasion when given the opportunity.  She really should be nominated as teacher of the year--she is amazing!!!

MRS. RICHEY

 Mrs. Richey has been "our" kindergarten teacher because she has taught Brady, Anthony and now Brynn.  Mrs. Richey has more patience than Job--honestly.  When I was the room mom for her one year, I had the kids fill out a questionnaire about her during "Teacher Appreciation Week."  One of the questions that I asked on the survey was, "What makes Mrs. Richey mad?"  The comments astounded me.  They had replied, "Nothing" or "She never gets mad."  Now that is a gift if you are teaching 5 year olds all day long.  She is patient and consistent--I love that!

MRS. WADDEL

I'm sorry her black feathers got in the way, but  Mrs. Waddel is anything but a witch.  She has taught Anthony, Brynn and Cate in Preschool and she is very loved by them.  When you walk into Mrs. Waddel's classroom, you feel peace, love and safety--what more could you want for your preschooler?  She has a gentle kindness that I hope to develop one day.  I wish every child could start their life with Mrs. Waddel in it.  We love you!

MRS. JENKINS

 I think Jandora Jenkins is more than a teacher-she is a magician.  Jandora has taught Brady and Anthony in Preschool and she has taught Brady, Anthony and Brynn how to read.  She has a gift for teaching children and it is truly because of her that my children read well--I give her all the credit.  When you look up organized in the dictionary, you will find Jandora's name next to it.  As I have watched her teach, I have tried to figure out what her "magic" with the kids is and I think she explains things so well and in detail to them, they know exactly what to do.  We are the biggest cheerleaders for Mrs. Jenkins!   J-E-N-K-I-N-S!  GOOOOO Mrs. Jenkins!  We love you!

MRS. WATKIINS

 Mrs. Watkins was Brady's 4th grade teacher and she made this list because she truly knows how to combine "fun" and "learning."  Brady loved going to school because she was highly entertaining and because he learned so much.  Because of her, Brady realized that learning is fun.  Mrs. Watkins is the first teacher to throw out a high five to the boys or joke with the girls.  We love you!

I am thankful for Young Women Leaders

Our Young Women Leaders

I just realized that I do not have a picture with just my YW leaders, so this is the best I could do.  I am grateful for leaders that love the girls and help me with my calling.  They are great examples to me and they each have a beautiful testimony of our Savior.

Let me do a shout out to my leaders:

Mary Miller, Beth Liechty, Andrea Barry, Kim Cahoon, Tracy Brown, Marianne Bezzant, Liza Fotheringham, Liz Eaton, Chris Olson, Jenifer Anderson, Debbie Severn, Lisa Smith, and Nancy Sparks.  Love you!

I am thankful for our Young Women

Our Young Women

 

 My "thankful list" would not be complete without thanking the Young Women in my life.  I am constantly amazed at their faith, good works and their love for the Lord.  After two major challenges under our belt, many of them are asking me for another one--whew!  These girls are ready to do hard things--they really are warriors.  I love and appreciate each one of them individually and I wish I could write what each one of them mean to me, but that would take the whole blog (as you can see from the picture, we have a lot of them.)  I simply love each of them--without limits!!!

I am thankful for inspirational people

Sister Elaine Dalton

When I think of heroes, I think of Sister Dalton.  I met Sister Dalton at a training meeting in SLC and I have been her biggest fan ever since.  Sister Dalton has every quality that I hope to possess some day- she is kind, happy, positive, loving, fun, patient, accepting and has the light of Christ in her eyes.  When you are with her, she simply radiates love and she is a magnet with the Young Women.
I am a better person for knowing her.  Love you!!!


Diana Searle

   I heard someone once say that Diana Searle is the Lord's greatest cheerleader-and I believe it.  She is our Stake Young Women President, but she is more than that--she is a dear friend.  I don't know if I can think of a time when Diana isn't smiling or serving someone.  She works magic with the Young Women.  Diana is great to talk to and makes everyone feel like her best friend.  She loves the Lord and you can see it in her actions.  Love you!!!!


Connie Allen

 Her smile says it all--Connie Allen is a joy to be around and a true angel on earth.  Connie is Brady and Anthony's piano teacher, but she is also a great example for our family--and everyone.  One mother said she doesn't care if her children learn anything at piano (although they do), but she just wants her children to be with Connie.  She has a gift of making everyone feel like a million bucks and is dripping with love.  Not to mention she makes the best melt-a-ways I have ever tasted.  Love you!!!


Julie Lewis

Julie is a friend to everyone.  She has lived here half as long as I have, yet everyone knows her name because she is literally their friend.  Julie has a tender heart and never wants anyone to feel left out-she looks out for "the one."  Julie has taught this to her children and they are kind to everyone, too.  They make sure everyone has a friend and is included.  Thanks for being a great example to me and my children, Julie.  Julie is a creative genius and shares this gift with those around her.  In the picture above, Julie is supporting our Young Women at our Temple Walk.  Love you!!!!

I am thankful for the King Family and the Carnesecca Family

It is great when you get married because you get to double your family.  I have been extremely blessed to have married into Chad's family.  I am so thankful for each of them.  Here's why:

THE KING FAMILY

These pictures are very out-of-date.....sorry!

CORY:  Cory married Tara and so he was "married" into the Carnesecca Family as well.  Cory has a passion for life--fishing, hunting, you name it.  I love how he really gets excited and loves whatever he does.  Family is very important to Cory and he shows it.

TARA:  Boy, if Tara is on your side--consider yourself extremely blessed.  She knows the meaning of the words "true friend" and she will defend you 'til the bitter end.  I love that Tara has strong beliefs and she stands up for them.  She is not afraid to do what she feels is right no matter what the cost.  We need more brave people in our world like Tara.  She has been like a sister to me and I sure love her.

MORGAN:  You better watch the news because Morgan just might be the next president.  She is charismatic, happy and very smart.  It is very fun to talk to Morgan because she is so excited to talk with you.  She is a great sister and she loves to have fun.

WALKER:  Walker shares his father's passion for things--it is so fun to watch. Walker is quite funny and comes up with great "one-liners."  Walker is very polite and tries to do what is right.  He is Brady and Anthony's pal at any function.

HOLLAND:  Holland is actually "Holly Dolly" to me.  Holly can make me giggle because she is full of life.  Holland loves to be involved and loves her family.  She wants to do everything--she is going to need two lifetimes to do all that she wants to do.  :)

THE CARNESECCA FAMILY

ROBERT:  Robert is literally my favorite person right now because he was able to create a "computer miracle" for me.  For those of you who have had computer issues, you know that a computer genius is as precious to you as Moses parting the Red Sea.  Robert has always been there for me and my kiddies and for that I am grateful.  Robert is always helpful and loves his family.
MELISSA:  I think if Cate had her choice, she would probably rather be with Melissa than me.  Melissa is always trying to do things for others and she is so fun with my kids.  Melissa tries to do what is right and loves her family.
ELLIE:  I like to affectionately call Ellie, "Ellie wellie woo woo."  We have Ellie play with us quite often and so we know her very well.  Ellie has the most beautiful brown eyes and when she looks at me with them, she can have anything she wants.  Ellie has a contagious laugh and she loves to do it all.

I am thankful for The Reid's, The Jackmans and the "H" Family

Where would I be without my entire family?  They have always been there for me and always will.  I am grateful for sister-in-laws and brother-in-laws.  I think one of life's greatest treasures are nieces and nephews--they make me so happy.  Here are a few reasons why I am thankful for my family:

THE REID'S

KIM:  We already know why I am grateful for him (see other posts)

NAN:  I am grateful for Nan because she is always looking out for "the one."  At any family function she is trying to make sure everyone is okay and happy.  Nan is a great mother and is always up for an adventure.  Not to mention, Nan is at a 3/4 family blood level-she had a ceremony and everything.  :)

JESSICA:  You have to be grateful for someone who shares your birthday and you will always have a special place in your heart for them.  Jessie was born on my birthday, so we are "lucky" gals.  Jessica always tries to do what is right and she is so kind to others.  She loves to be with her family and she likes to plan family functions.  I love when she stays over the weekend at my house.

JACOB:  I used to affectionately call Jake "Jake-ee Baby," but now that he is a teenager, he doesn't care for that name.  :)  Jake is so funny-his laugh cracks me up.  Jake likes to have fun and we have had may laughs on the tube pictured below.  Remember "Loser Ride" Jake?  Even though he is a tough football player, he has a soft heart and he can play poker with the best of 'em.  :)

THE JACKMAN'S

ERIC:  I can barely remember a time when Eric wasn't in our family--it seems like he has been with us forever.  Eric has truly been like a brother to me.  I remember when he would let me steer the steering wheel when I was only in 4th grade--WOW!  That day he won me over and he still does!

LORI:  Yep.....still grateful for her--see her post below.

KRYSTLE:  Krystle was my shadow when I was little and I thought she was partly mine.  When Eric and Lori would leave our home and head back to Logan with Krystle, I would go lock my bathroom door and just cry.  Krystle is my buddy......there, I said it.  She has filled my life with laughter and joy.

I appreciate that even though I fed her red cream soda when she was a baby, she still loves me.

BRETT:  Yes Brett, even though you are "married" in to the family, I consider you one of ours.  If you read my "funny list," Brett's cousin is Melanie--small world.  Brett did not fall far from the tree because he is a funny one, too.  I love how great he is with my kids.  To them, he is a rock star.

TREVOR:  I have learned a lot from Trevor.  I love how humble he is and how he NEVER takes offense when someone corrects him.  He usually says, "Yeah, I need to work on that."  I hope I can develop that skill one day.  :)  He loves the Lord and you can see it by the way he treats others.

KASSIDY:  I am amazed at what Kassidy has to face at her school in California, but she has remained strong.  She has a very funny sense of humor and likes to make others feel special.  When we were in California, my girlies couldn't wait for Kassidy to get home from school to play Barbies with them and/or babysit them.  Thanks, Kass!

THE "H" FAMILY

(Himelright/Honeycutt Family)

LANCE:  Lance hasn't been with our family very long, but I appreciate what he has taught us.  My boys are enthralled with his love of airplanes.  I think Lance may have more hobbies than anyone this side of the Mississippi (I have always wanted to use that line-I did it!)  Lance tries to do what is right and has taught his boys how to be all boy. :)

TAMMY:  Tam, I know you are not grateful for this picture.......you have told me before, but it is the only one I have of ALL of you!  :)   (See Tammy's thankful post)

COURTNEY:  I think Courtney is very brave--she dares to try new things.  Courtney has so many talents and she uses them to the best of her ability-not many people can say that.  Courtney is a great sister to her little brothers and she is an animal on the soccer field!  :)

CAYSON:  If you could look up the definition of "All Boy" in the dictionary, you would find Cayson's name right next to it.  Cayson runs like a football player and likes sports a lot.  Cayson makes me laugh because he will never let me love him to death--he thinks it's funny to run away from me.  One day I am going to catch him and smother him with kisses!

COLBY:   Colby might be the "smiliest" baby I have ever seen.  He simply smiles all day long.  I am thrilled that he is the newest addition to our family.  I think he has the talent of sucking every finger on his hand at the same time--WOW!  :)

I am thankful for friends who make a difference in my life....

This "thankful" list goes out to the women (girls) in my life who have made me be a better person, helped me to rethink bad decisions and supported me in good ones, stood by me through tough times and are friends that I look up to in so many ways.  These are women who I owe so, so much for their amazing examples and true friendship.

KARI TRAVELLER

 Let me just start off by saying that Kari could have made my "funny list" because she is a hoot!  But, she is on this list for many reasons.  Kari was one of the first neighbors/friends that I met when I moved here.  Kari and I have been through a lot together--babysitting kids, rolling eyes at each other at church :), and giggling at just about anything.  Kari made this list because when I think of the word "STEADFAST," I think of Kari.  She ALWAYS does the right thing no matter what the stakes.  She has a gift of keeping everything into perspective.  She is a natural leader because knows where she is going.  Kari is a wonderful listener and she is probably one of the best mothers I have ever met--she is fun, smart, a great homemaker and she teaches her children to obey and do what is right.  Kari and I see "eye to eye" on just about everything, so we relate with each other very well. She has taught me so much about just being a great person.

Love ya, Kari!

  

LYNDI CALLISTER

If you were to ask my kids who their 2nd mother is, they would say, "Lyndi--for sure."  She truly has been a 2nd mother to my kids.  I wish she could raise my kids because when I think of the words "PATIENCE AND SERVICE," I think of Lyndi.  Our families were back door neighbors for years and we shared a gate between our two homes.  Anytime there is a gate between two neighbors, it's code for "We're tight friends."  Lyndi and I talked with each other almost every day for 10 years--and our children played together almost every day for 10 years.  It was the type of friendship where we left our doors open for our kids to run back and forth to our homes--it was Mayberry.  The Callisters moved this summer to Tennessee and it truly has been like a death for our family.  But, on a happy note, I am writing about Lyndi because she is one of the best people I know.  She is ALWAYS serving the Lord and serving others.  She remembers EVERY birthday, every event and every story.  After she moved, I told Chad I might have to talk to a shrink and go on a antidepressant because Lyndi was my sounding board.  :)  We wore similar outfits one day and so we made a cheerleading pose in the picture below.

Miss you, Lyndi!  Love you!

 KAZIAH PACK CHANG

Kaziah and I met each other in the Missionary Training Center.  We were both going to Mexico on proselyting/nursing missions and she was my first companion.  The first day we met each other, we were crying in the eatery because of laughter--she is another funny one.  When you are in the MTC, there are a lot of funny things you can talk about.  :)  Kaziah was a wonderful missionary and she is an even better friend. When I think of the words "CONSISTENT AND RESILIENT," I think of Kaziah.  She has taught me a lot about getting back up when you get knocked down and keeping a happy, positive attitude through life's journey.  Kaziah has a smile that can light up a room.  We have been through a lot together and I have learned SO much from her about life.  She will always be dear to my heart for all that she has taught me.

Love you compita chula!

JENNY TERRY CALL

I have known Jenny since the 4th grade.  We were in the same schools growing up and church wards together--we pretty much grew up together.  We played together when we were little, we were co-captains of the volleyball team our Senior Year of high school and we were roommates at USU.  In the 25+ years that we have known each other--playing together and even being roommates--I can honestly say that I have never seen Jenny be angry, mad, mean or say a bad word about anyone.  SERIOUSLY!  When I think of the word "LOVE," I think of Jenny.  Jenny is kind to everyone and everyone loves to be around her.  I have often told Chad that Jenny is the most Christlike person I have ever met.  I hope I can be filled with her same love and happiness one day.  When I picture Jenny, I picture her with a smile on her face.   She truly is one in a gazillion.  

Love you, Jenny! 

I am thankful for funny people

Okay, this might be my favorite post EVER because I LOVE funny people.  There are so many funny people in my life, but the ones who made this list are people who are the "spew your milk across a room" type of funny.  So, if you have made this list, please consider yourself distinguished, honored, immortalized and definitely one of my favorite people on the earth.  Chad thinks I may put too much emphasis on if someone is funny or not because one of the first things I say after I meet somebody is, "They were funny," or I say just the opposite when we get in the car, "Boh.....ring."  I have thought about his accusation and..........nope..........funny is the new black!  :)

P.S.  If you are not on this list and you think you are funny, it is because you are on or will be on another "list."  Your turn is coming!  :)  I had many friends/family that overlap in many categories.  

Stay tuned!

JAMIE SAVAGE

This "funny list" would not be complete without Jamie Savage on it, but any "funny list" would not be accurate if Jamie wasn't the FIRST one on the list.  I don't know how she does it, but EVERYTHING that comes out of her mouth makes me giggle.  Sometimes she will say something and I will think to myself, "Did she just say what I think she said?"  Usually she said what I thought she said and then I spew my milk across the room because she is so funny.  Jamie will dare say what most people wouldn't and she gets away with it, well.........because she's so stinkin' funny!  Jamie, I know you are reading this and grinning ear to ear that you took the #1 spot because I know you put as much emphasis on people being funny as I do!  :)  From throwing game pieces to cooking like a "Savage," Jamie is a good time.  Besides being funny, Jamie is a dear friend/cousin (by marriage) and she literally makes me smile as I type this.  Thanks for being a ray of sunshine in my life and a piece of "humble pie."  

Love you, Jame!

KIRSTEN LINDSEY BERHAN

Have you ever had a college roommate that knows WAY too much about you?  That is Kirsten.  We were roommates at USU by default-we didn't know each other at all.   I remember the first time we saw each other in our apartment--I was wearing pink and bows (so she tells me) and she was dressed in a tank top and running shorts while wearing a red bandanna on her head.  I thought she was going to kill me in my sleep and she thought I was going to make her play barbies all night. :)  We definitely seemed to come from different solar systems, but after we got to know each other, we realized we were destined to become friends.  I can't tell you how many sleepless nights I spent in that college apartment because I was up all night laughing with her.  I will never forget going to a grocery store with her.  Kirsten was wearing a cowboy hat and so she decided to act as a cowboy that day.  After we did our shopping, she got in a shopping cart and held onto the rear bumper of my car while I drove around the parking lot.  While we were driving around, I thought it would be funny if I hit a few little bumps-just to give her a fun ride. :)  Little did I know that the little "bump" was a big pot hole.  After I went through it, I immediately looked in my rear view mirror and Kirsten and the cart were flipping end over end.  I slammed on the brakes, got out of the car and asked her if she was okay.  As she was lying on the ground, she started laughing and said (with a cowboy voice), "That horse bucked me off!"

JENEIL MORRILL

Jeneil and Mike were our neighbors in our first house after Chad and I were married--they were the BEST thing about the area we lived in.  Right, Jeneil? :)  One of my favorite things about Jeneil is that she has ZERO tolerance for drama or dramatic people in general.  She has probably one of the most "worry free" personalities I have ever met-and I LOVE that!  If I ever need a good "reality check," Jeneil is who I call.  She can do a darn good impression of..........anyone.  For Halloween this year, Jeneil dressed up as one of Warren Jeff's wives.  She had the hairdo, the dress, apron, the whole enchilada.  That is why she is my friend and why she is on this list--because of stunts like that!  :) I love to talk to Jeneil because her favorite thing to say when you tell her something is, "Dang!" and then she follows it up with a laugh.  I love it!

PHIL VANDIJK

Phil is a great friend from high school and our families are still friends today.  If you don't think Phil is funny, you probably don't have a pulse.  If I ever sent you a hilarious email, it more than likely came from Phil.  Phil is not inhibited by......anything.  He says what he wants to say and that is why he is loved by everyone.  We were Debate Partners in high school.  Our teacher had a cupboard full of used binders that we could choose from to put our papers in.  We found two old folders that had the church's logo engraved on the front of them.  We decided to use them as our folders because we figured we could use all the help we could get--it didn't help!  We were ridiculous debaters.......but we sure had fun!  Instead of sticking to the issues at hand, we would just make fun of the opposing team.  :) 

For Halloween this year Phil dressed up at "Bob Ross, the Painter Guy" as portrayed in the photo below.  Too funny, Phil! 

 

MELANIE MONTGOMERY BRENCHLEY

I affectionately call her "Canada Face," "Kermie Pants" or just about anything I want to.  :)  Melanie and I went through Nursing School together and it was because of her that I made it out with a little bit of sanity.  Whew--she is funny!  We had many late night study sessions that turned more into laugh sessions than studying.  They say laughing is healthy--thanks for increasing my life span, Mel!

KELLI KIRKPATRICK

Kelli and I met as nurses on Pediatrics at the hospital.  We worked the night shift together and boy..........those kids had some fun on our shift.  I am surprised our patients wanted to go home the next morning after the circus we put on for them that night!  Ha ha!  :)  I love hearing Kelli's stories because you can't believe they are real.......but they ARE!  One of my favorite stories about her was when she got her red hair cut and she thought she looked like Ronald McDonald.  If you get a chance, ask her to tell you any one of her life stories--they are hilarious!  The "Ambien" story is up there, Kel.

I am thankful for parents

I am thankful for my parents because they gave me my life.  They taught me how to work hard and to believe in myself.  I was taught to be grateful, obedient and I learned how to have fun.  I am grateful that I was raised in the LDS church.

WAYNE REID AND SHARON STAKER

I am also grateful for Chad's parents.  Because of them, Chad is the person he is today.  Chad's father passed away when he was only 38 (Chad was only 10).  From everything people tell me about him, he was amazing--everyone loved to be around him.  Chad's mom is a pillar of strength, yet she is a lady in every way.  She has taught me SO much and she has been like a mother to me.

CARL AND DIANE CARNESECCA

I am thankful for Sammy

I can't believe a dog is actually making my list, but after days of prayers, tears and searching for him (and after I slapped a 100 dollar bill down to get him out of the pound), he is home.  For this reason, I have decided that I better include Sammy on my "thankful" list.  :)

SAMMY

I am grateful for grandparents

I am grateful for wonderful grandparents who love me.  Even though most of them have passed on, I believe they are still near and continue to love me.

I am proud to be a Staker and a Reid.

GRANDMA AND GRANDPA STAKER

Grandpa was a quiet man with goodness running through his veins.  He loved to serve others and was a very hard worker.  My favorite memory of Grandpa was when he would laugh so hard that his false teeth would come out.  Grandma Staker loves life and at 90 years old, she hasn't missed a beat--she is still "with it."  Grandma is a great cook and loves to take care of others.  She has an adventurous spirit that I love.  My favorite story about grandma is when she licked a cold steering wheel while waiting for my grandpa to come out of the cafe on a cold, wintry night and her tongue got stuck on the steering wheel--too funny!

GRANDMA AND GRANDPA REID

 Below is a picture of my Grandma and Grandpa Reid.  Grandpa Staker was also a quiet man and he was very strong.  He loved his family and his grandkids.  Grandpa passed away when I was very young, but I remember when he worked on the railroads at night and he would blow the whistle on the train to let us know he was thinking about us.  Grandma Reid passed away when I was about 4 years old.  The two memories I have of her is when she let me blow out her birthday candles and when she let me wash the dishes when nobody else thought I could-or should.  Thanks for believing in me, grandma!

I am thankful for my brother and sisters

There are only a few people in your life who understand you completely--mainly because they were basically raised the same way you were.  The next people in my life I am grateful for are my brother and sisters.

Here's why:

KIM

Kim is my oldest brother.  Below is a picture of him goofing off--a favorite past time of ours.  Kim is very talented and has amazing abilities.  He likes to laugh, tease and have fun but he is very generous and would do anything for you.  He truly cares about others and tries to support my family whenever he can.  When he went on his mission, I was only in 1st grade.  I remember laying on our couch in Vernal and playing the song "Heartlight" (over and over) by Neil Diamond while I cried because I missed him.  Even though he called me the "Michelin Tire Man" when I was little (and gave me a complex), I still love him!  :)

LORI

Lori is my oldest sister and she lives in Palm Springs.  I think I would have to be on Prozac (Lexapro...sorry, Chad) if I didn't have her.  She is an amazing listener--not just to me, but to everyone.  She is one of the funniest people on the planet and she sure knows how to have fun--and travel!  Right now, she is bothered with a ringing in her ear and I am thinking it might be because I have talked her ear off!  :)  When Lori does something, she does it right.  She is very talented and tries to take care of everyone around her--including me! She took me everywhere with her when I was little. Lori says what she thinks and so you always know where you stand with her-I love that!  Even though she locked me outside when I was little in my underwear while laughing through the glass at me, I still love her!  :)

TAMMY

Talk about someone who understands EXACTLY how you grew up--that's Tammy.  We were "Bosom Buddies" when we were little and we literally did EVERYTHING together.  From tubing in the backyard, to walking across a very dangerous pipe with a ravine below, to having bath time memories (you know what I mean, Tam), and sleeping in the same room together-we were together.  I always knew Tammy was there for me--and she still is.  Tammy is the type of person who will do what you want to do instead of doing what she wants to do.  When we were little, I would say to her, "If you don't play what I want to play, I am not going to play with you."  So, she patiently played what I wanted and even watched Mr. Rogers with me.  She is a creative genius and is a hard worker.  Even though she punched my arm to see if it hurt after I got my Kindergarten shots, I still love her!