LauraLee's Spot

Charting the Path to Civil Rights

2012-01-16T10:17:00.001-07:00

Today we celebrate the birth of Martin Luther King Jr. He led marches and movements that continued the civil rights movement. I deeply admire Martin Luther King Jr., but I think there is another person who charted the path that Martin Luther King Jr. continued on. To me Thurgood Marshall opened so many doors in the area of civil rights. He argued more cases before the United States Supreme Court (32) than any other lawyer and he won 29 of those cases. Just to name a few:

1. School integration from primary to graduate schools.

2. Overthrowing "white primary" election policies.

3. Overthrowing the legality of race restrictive covenants in neighborhoods.

4. Defended and won the rights of civil rights demonstrators.

5. Brown v. Board of Education: Demolished legal basis for segregation in public schools.

6. Browder v. Gayle: Bus segregation ended, ending the Montgomery bus boycott.

I am thankful to all people who stand up for what they believe is their right. The power to voice your point of view to the government and be heard is what makes this country great! I am thankful Martin Luther King Jr., and countless others who did this through marches, protests, gatherings and so forth. I am grateful Thurgood Marshall for recognizing laws that diminished civil rights and fighting for those rights through the legal system. We would not be where we are today without his efforts!

http://www.thurgoodmarshall.com/speeches/tmlaw_article.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thurgood_Marshall

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2012-01-01T15:50:00.001-07:00

The days following Christmas are more of a family celebration for our extended family. On December 30th we enjoyed a great dinner together and enjoyed a gift exchange!

The kids love to play together, especially in the basement and Grandpa and Grandma's House!

Mom did extremely well all week with the events. She loves having family around but it does make her sleepy...

For new years eve we had our annual family white elephant party and as always it was a great success! Kris and the kids played a little basketball, shirts and skins. He was a little out numbered and Alyssa had to help him out!

The older nieces are growing up so fast! In fact for Alexis' white elephant they threw a bachelorette party! She was a good sport about it!

There were several funny white elephants including Hefier's Happy Place, Jimmer Ferduck, Cory's dolls, Muppets vs. Sesame Street, and Grandma Bellows as leader of team Jacob and Jacob as team "Bellaows!" This party is a highlight of the holidays for me!!! What a great family I have!

Merry Christmas, December 25, 2011

2011-12-25T18:51:00.000-07:00

Larsens

Gillespies

Grandpa and Grandma Bellows

Hortons

Gillespies

Christmas Lights

2011-12-11T19:07:00.001-07:00

Kelly, Deah, and I went to the festival of trees on December 3rd. We ran into the Hortons and decided to join them on a trip to temple square. Here are Marcus, Quincey, and Caleb on Trax.

I took some fun pictures of the Hortons. I am so glad we ran into them.

Deah was hesitant to come because she did not have a coat that matched. Needless to say we talked her into it.

Kris and Michelle came up for family night on December 5th and we enjoyed another trip on the train and the beautiful Christmas lights!

Claire was dressed nice and warm and Josh had an awesome hat!

We had fun with the giant nutcracker in the Joseph Smith Building...

...and took great pictures in front of the tree!

Kris has a great love for the ZCMI windows that have not been decorated for many years but this year Kris found one with some "great" decoration! I have a great family!!!!!

Rocky Mountain Thanksgiving!

2011-12-04T16:19:00.001-07:00

We enjoyed a beautiful thanksgiving with the Lecheminants in Parker, Colorado

Julie prepared so many great foods during our trip, even though Jeff got the credit!

The weather was 65 degrees on thanksgiving day so we enjoyed the beautiful day in the park with the kids.

Julie completely out did herself with an amazing thanksgiving dinner and with help from her little helper!

Dad and Mom gave into the tryptophan more than once on the trip.

The kids came and enjoyed the pool at the hotel.

Trey planned a white elephant party while we were there. He gave Dad, his Grandpa, snakes! Grandpa does NOT like snakes!

What an amazing vacation with amazing food and incredible family! We love the Lecheminants!

Temple Grandin

2011-11-04T21:33:00.003-06:00

I had an interesting opportunity this week to drive Temple Grandin to Logan, Utah as part of my work at the Disability Law Center. She is an amazing scientist that designed more humane slaughter houses for cattle. She has autism and is a wonderful advocate for being your best self. A movie about her life was made by HBO, starring Claire Daines, it is well worth watching!

It was interesting to have the opportunity to talk to her one on one and I learned she does 100 sit-ups everyday. This is 99 more than I can do! I am grateful for unforgettable experiences.

Here is her website: http://www.templegrandin.com/

Kerri's halloween Party

2011-11-04T21:15:00.000-06:00

Kerri threw her annual Halloween party on October 30th. We enjoyed some very creative dishes and

... even better costumes!

Dad handed out candy and the kids had a ball!

Witch Festival

2011-10-16T16:31:00.001-06:00

The girls and I went to the Witch Festival at Gardner Village,

We had a great time and Deah met her dream guy, well something like that.

It was a lot of fun, but there were a ton of people there!

They did some fun set ups with Witches, I loved Witchy Poo!

Cole's Baptism

2011-10-10T15:18:00.001-06:00

Cole was baptized on October 8th! I can't believe he is actually old enough to be baptized and I am so glad I could be there to celebrate this special day with him.

We had a luncheon afterwards. There was candy on each table. As you can see, Josh creatively placed all the candy on his table in his pocket. Very smart!

Fun pictures with Kaitlyn, Alaria, and Saige. What a fun day! Congrats Cole!

4.2 Points, a Rudy Moment

2011-09-18T16:44:00.001-06:00

So I found out this week that I did not pass the Utah State Bar Exam. You have to score 270, I scored 265.8. That's right, I missed it by 4.2 points.

There is something to be learned from this. I have a special talent for retakes

Driving Test Utah - 2

High School Pictures - 2

ACT - 2

Driving Test Washington - 2

LSAT - 3

Ethics Test - 3

Utah State Bar - 2 (I hope)

In the movie Rudy, he practices with the team for years and only gets one play in the final game of the last season he is eligible. He keeps going, sometimes you just need to prove to yourself that you can do it. This is what I intend to do.

Hiking

2011-09-11T15:48:00.000-06:00

Sarah and I decided to reattempt a hike to Doughnut Falls Yesterday. We tried it in May but there was too much snow.

We made it this time with a few detours on the way, but it was well worth it!

A Change Will Do You Good....

2011-09-02T09:01:00.000-06:00

...I just did not know they all needed to happen at once!

New house

New job

New roommate

New dog

New office space

New ward

New season of Parenthood and Sister Wives (coming soon)

New football season

and renewed exercise plan!

Phew-

Handwritten Letters and Greeting Cards

2011-08-16T22:31:00.002-06:00

Sadly, I think we have lost something in the age of technology. I am getting ready to move and as I was cleaning out some things I found a box of letters and greeting cards from throughout my life.

I went through the box and found letters from brothers and brother-in-laws while on missions, greeting cards from grandparents here and some that have past away, cards from grade school friends and letters from my mom that I now cherish more than ever.

This card was written and mailed to me by my nephew. It makes me laugh, you can see so much about his age, personality, and the fact that his mom made him write it in the card (I don't know that for sure).

There is something to be said for writing things by hand and for receiving letters and cards written by hand. I am thankful that I was reminded of this.

Lark Rise to Candleford

2011-08-11T18:42:00.002-06:00

Summer television is so lacking that I often look for shows at, you guessed it, the library.

My roommate was watching Lark Rise to Candleford one night on PBS. I checked out the first season and found the first episode a little slow. But the more I have watched the more I have enjoyed it.

It is nice to know there are still programs on television that are clean and fun to watch. This is definitely one of them.

Climb Every Mountain

2011-07-30T17:02:00.018-06:00

We went on a hike to the first set of waterfalls on the way up Timp. It was hot but the kids were troopers!

Deah, Steph, and I went up with the kids and had a great time!

When we hit the waterfall there was still snow. Alysa decided to make a slide of it and we joined in.

Even I went down!

Of course coming down was a lot easier than going up and it was all worth it!

We got back to Aspen Grove and the rest of the family met us for an awesome dutch oven dinner by the Larsens and lots of fun!

Alaria took some great pictures of her dad.

We had so many friends, we ended up using all the tables and the benches as tables.

Claire stayed warm in a cute little sweater and Caleb got a wig stuck on his head, is that fun or what!

Fleas on Fred to Bugs in the Bed

2011-07-28T20:05:00.004-06:00

I use to play Fleas on Fred with the Anderson kids all the time. Little did I know, this game was just a preview to a future event in my life. I think Salt Lake City is trying to give me a hint. First we have the fire in December 2008, and believe it or not, we just found out we have bed bugs. My roommate kindly kept this from me until the Bar Exam was over and I am so glad. I know there is a Bed Bugs game but I don't want to play it so we have decided to get our apartment treated and then move out. More news is coming soon....

Something I Have to Watch...

2011-07-19T19:34:00.001-06:00

...as I continually bomb bar exam practice tests!

A

Great Summer Breaks

2011-07-13T21:58:00.034-06:00

My life has been consumed by bar exam study, but I was not about to miss 4th of July fun with family that started with a backyard sleepover July 1st. Mom really liked the tent!

This is the first time in four years that the Lecheminants were able to join us. Avrey looked so cute in her P.J.s but she was sleeping inside.

Grandpa made snow cones for all the kids, which they loved!

Andy kindly took kids on motorcycle rides which Kaden loved!

We enjoyed Smores and family time in the backyard.

I woke everyone up at 6:00am the next morning to go to the balloon launch. They, as always did not like me waking them up but we loved the balloons this year!

The Darth Vader balloon was very cool. The kids liked having their picture with Darth but I think Kris enjoyed it the most.

Kris took a really "attractive" picture of me at 6:30am. But I thought it was really funny.

During the day, on July 2nd, it got really hot so the Hortons set up a huge slip and slide and the kids, including Kris, had a blast!

In the evening we had a BBQ before the Stadium of Fire fireworks. Kerri got a mix to make homemade Cream Soda which I put together with help from Avrey, who was fascinated with the dry ice.

We ate popcicles and waited for the fireworks.

On July 3rd we took family pictures because everyone was here. This is just Grandpa, Grandma and the 23 grand kids. Below are the parents getting them to smile. Too funny!

I took some pictures of my own, of the five oldest grand-daughters who are growing up way too fast!

Quincey and Kylie

Cory, Grandma, and Caleb

Dads and Daughters; Jeff and Avrey, Spencer and Afton.

The following weekend Andersons were in town so I headed back to Hortons for a sleepover where Quincey and Ali painted my nails.

Cory was talking lots a smack to me the whole time he was here and finally I let him have it. Needless to say the battle continued all weekend!

The kids enjoyed popcicles, then we headed to Spanish Fork to go see the remodel Larsens have been working on in their house. Ali found a nice wig at the Larsen house.

They have done so much work on their house and it looks great. Painting, flooring, and remodeling cabinets. So much work and all done by the Larsens.

Larsens took us to a shave ice place in Spanish Fork which was so good on a hot summer day! If I have not said it before, I have a great family!

Summer Fun

2011-06-29T19:31:00.013-06:00

On Saturday Kelly, Melinda, Deah and Emily came to Salt Lake for fun and of course I needed a study break so we went downtown.

We ate dinner at the Blue Iguana and then walked around Temple Square and City Creek.

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building/Hotel Utah is celebrating 100 years and they had a lot of fun exhibits. This one showed the people that had stayed there, and of course we had to take Emily's picture with Bing.

Deah on the other hand was trying to fake a date with Heber J. Grant!

The Lecheminants came into town this week and we spent Wednesday at Temple Square. Kaden and Trey were doing a program for me outside the church office building.

Andy took us on a VIP tour on top of the conference center which was very cool. It started to rain really hard while we were on top of the building and Andy was having a little trouble getting the door open, but I have to say it made for a very funny picture.

Andy took us on a "VIP" tour through the conference center and we got the chance to see the center from the stage point of view. It was amazing!

After the conference center we went to the Beehive House and took the tour. Julie and I decided that the furniture today is just not what it use to be.

It was a very fun day full of surprises and I can't wait to do it again.

Waiting for Superman

2011-06-21T23:37:00.003-06:00

I have been on bar exam preparation overload so I decided to take a break tonight and watch a movie I have been wanting to see since its theater release. Those of you who know me know that I had it on hold at the Salt Lake Public Library and of course my hold finally came through.

Waiting for Superman is a documentary about the school system throughout the nation and some serious problems it is facing. As I started to watch the movie my first thought was oh great, another movie to tell us all how teachers are not cutting it and only some public, charter, and private schools are successful.

I was a public educator for eight years and now work in disability education law so I know there are problems but I really don't like it when we have these "the world is all wrong and there is no solution, except one, type stories."

How wrong I was about this movie. As the movie continued and as I watched the bonus features I realized that what the creator was trying to say is that we need to think outside the box, look at what is working and find ways to implement or duplicate it whether it be through districts or charter school systems. The only part that was not addressed in this film, though I think it is an issue that need a movie all its own, is the influence of family and community on the the student's future.

I am fortunate that I live in Utah where education, though lacking in funds, is valued with a 72% graduation rate in 2009. This movie is worth watching. It made me extremely grateful for those teachers I remember by name who changed my life forever!

www.waitingforsuperman.com

Visitors, Visitors, Visitors, I love Visitors!

2011-06-16T20:55:00.017-06:00

Kris and Michelle brought their kids to the zoo on June 3rd and since I live so close I decided to join them for the day. They had dinosaur animatronics all over the park and the kids loved them.

This dinosaur was spraying water and as you can see Cole was just waiting to get wet!

Kris made this dinosaur almost seem real.

Cole and Josh both put their heads in the dinosaurs mouth. I think Josh was a little more nervous about this than Cole was.

Ali became quite the model at the zoo. She is a cutie!

I had to take a picture of this elephant slide because it has been there since I was a kid, is still made of metal, and is still as hot as ever!

I was taking pictures in the playground at the zoo and of course Josh kept hiding from me. Needless to say I found him in a log!

I am not sure what to say about this picture but I think it is extremely funny! What a fun day at the zoo!

On Monday, June 6th the Larsens came to Salt Lake so of course we had to celebrate because it was Kerri's birthday!

We went to a local place called The Blue Plate Diner.

Kaitlyn got a pancake the size of her head and ate almost the whole thing!

We got Kerri cake and ice cream for her birthday and of course Alyssa helped blow out the candle because her birthday was just four days away.

And of course everyone helped in the eating. I love having visitors it is so much fun!

One final visitor came Washington, my roommate, Jessica Gardner. I don't have a picture of her but I have a picture of the great graduation gift she gave me below. She knows me well!

This Just Makes Me Giggle....

2011-06-02T18:40:00.000-06:00

Fully Loaded Weekend

2011-05-15T22:32:00.020-06:00

On Saturday we did the annual yard work event at Mom and Dad's house and had a birthday BBQ. Alexis earned her meal by pulling weeds!

All of the kids worked really hard pulling out weeds and...

...killing Potato Bugs.

It was a beautiful day for gardening.

By the end of the yard work Kris and Kelly decided to have a shovel dual. Who do you think won?

After the yard work and picnic the Larsens went to the temple and I hung out with their girls and we had a girl party. We went to the park and of course we painted nails.

On Saturday night I had a fun sleep over at Kris and Michelle's house. Sunday morning was Claire's baby blessing so it was fun to be able to hang out with them the night before and help in the morning as well.

We tried to take a fun family picture, I will not even try to explain this.

I took some pictures of Alexis and her boyfriend Casey along with her Great-Grandpa and Grandma Bellows. Grandpa and Grandma Bellows celebrated 68 years of marriage this weekend. They are amazing!

Claire is a beautiful baby girl with a lot of family that love her. What a great weekend!

Graduation Goals and Advice

2011-05-06T21:29:00.017-06:00

On May 1st Stephanie hosted a graduation get together with help from several family members. I decided not to attend graduation and instead agreed to this very nice party.

Cole created this card for me. He wished me a "Con- graduation" this was very creative!

The Hortons made me a great poster. Caleb was quick to point out that he is supporting the Cougars and Marcus tried to be kind and write "Go Utes!"

For my graduation party each person stated his or her full name and then gave me goals and advice for my legal career. Here are the suggestion I was given:

Mom: Be nice and good.

Michelle Gillespie: Watch the movie Tangled.

Dad: Make a lot of money so you can take care of me.

Kris Gillespie: Get someone sentenced with the death penalty and remember that love should be multiplied not divided. Legalize Marijuana. “KELLY IT’S YOUR TURN”

Grandpa Bellows: Grateful to have a Perry mason in his family and to get a discount on legal work. Don’t frequent all the bars.

Grandma Bellows: Don’t use Judge Judy as your role model.

Kelly Gillespie: Don’t go with everyone’s advice. Don’t move out of state yet, or ever.

Matt Larsen: Help the Horton’s store by buying Ute Shirts.

Kerri Larsen: Try to distance yourself from the U of U, disconnect from it.

Deah Borders: Get a job at the Attorney General and find a date for Deah there. Don’t wear white socks with black pants or shoes.

Emily Burmester: Remember who you are and don’t smoke pot.

Andy Horton: Next time you sign up for a marathon, actually run it.

Stephanie Horton: Don’t forget to wear your gloves at the beach. Find a way to create less handicap parking.

Spencer Gillespie: Don’t hesitate to wear a power suit and defeat Rhome Zabriskie.

Angie Gillespie: Write a Will for everyone in the room and then have us guess who each one is for.

Alexis Anderson: Use the word “fabulous” in the court room.

C. Allen Cluff: Never give up on the library.

Thanks for the support and an awesome graduation party!

Eating Crow

2011-04-29T14:32:00.003-06:00

So I have to be honest, I have been a bit mocking of all the TV overload about this wedding. Everything from Kate's dress to what shoes the horses will wear. But I do have to eat a little humble pie and take my hat off to William and Katherine for building a relationship before getting married, for making sure they knew what they were getting into before getting into it (although I don't think you ever fully know).

It is also nice to see that marriage between a man and a woman, under God, is still highly valued. I hope they continue on a positive path!

H&M is coming!

2011-04-28T16:51:00.001-06:00

H&M will open first Utah store at Fashion Place Mall - ksl.com

A Deacon, A Fear, and A Hunt...

2011-04-26T16:14:00.009-06:00

A Deacon:

Last Sunday, April 17th, Caleb was set apart at a Deacon. I can't believe it, these kids are growing up way to fast. I am very proud of him.Of course we had to take a goofy picture.A Fear:

On Easter Sunday the family got together for dinner. Deah was holding Claire and she freaked out every time her binky fell out. This picture says it all.Thankfully Malia saved the day! Claire and Afton are two cute girls.A Hunt:

We had the traditional Easter hunt and candy line up...but this year Kris passed the responsibility of lining everything up to Keena. But he was quick to let her know he would take notes and critique her work. Needless to say she passed, I think Kris just wanted to get out of his job.HAPPY EASTER!

Moments to Remember

2011-04-19T20:02:00.004-06:00

I can't believe it, but today I completed my last day of classes. I still have finals and some papers to complete, not to mention the Bar Exam, but I feel this is a monumental moment and I am thrilled to enjoy the moment!

The Great Salt Lake

2011-04-18T15:17:00.009-06:00

I have been working in the environmental clinic as part of my law school experience. I was given the chance to ride air boats on the Great Salt Lake at the Bear River Bird Refuge.It was a great experience and as you can see I got to wear a cool orange suit. One of my law school friends, Ariel, and I went on the boats together. I gained a great deal of appreciation for the Great Salt Lake. It is a beautiful place!

Sharpay's Locker

2011-04-15T19:54:00.003-06:00

The Hortons enjoyed spring break this week. On Wednesday they came up to Salt Lake to spend a day. I had a few hours so I joined then for an inside tour of East High School, and you guessed it, we found Sharpay's locker.The Hortons have wanted to tour the High School Musical School ever since they found out I live just blocks away. I hope it was everything they dreamed. Either way I had a lot of fun with them!

Afton Gillespie

2011-04-11T21:25:00.002-06:00

Spencer and Angie blessed new baby Afton on Sunday. She is a beautiful little girl and we enjoyed a very nice lunch with them after her blessing. Thanks Spencer and Angie!

The Value of Non-Profit Organizations

2011-04-08T18:52:00.005-06:00

James Naismith invented basketball as a physical education teacher for the YMCA in 1891. Basketball is now second only to soccer as most popular sport in the world.

There is something to be said for non-profit and charitable organizations. A lack of funds often creates very innovative ideas.

As March Madness comes to an end I have a greater appreciation for the YMCA.

Tender Mercies, Mechanics Edition

2011-03-23T21:37:00.002-06:00

I was driving home from work today and all of the sudden my car started humming really loud. Then I felt something dragging under the car.

I knew Jiffy Lube was only a block away so I loudly pulled in and said I have no idea what is wrong but it is loud. The mechanic looked under my car and my exhaust pipe had split in two and was dragging on the ground.

Jiffy Lube does not do this kind of work but they put the pieces back together temporarily and gave me the directions to the closest mechanic at a Goodyear shop. They did not even charge me for the time.

The mechanic at the Goodyear store looked and listened to my car. He gave me two honest repair options and had the car fixed within an hour, without breaking the bank.

Talk about tender mercies, my car broke down in the city and not on the freeway or in an unfamiliar location. Then the mechanics I worked with were all very helpful and got me on my way as soon as possible without huge costs. Heavenly Father really watched over me today!

Everyone Needs to Take a Break Sometime

2011-03-21T21:48:00.023-06:00

This week was crazy busy but I had made plans to go to Moab and run the 5 mile run. The Lecheminants agreed to come over from Colorado and spend the weekend. The first night there we ate at my favorite Mexican place and explored the rock store, which Kaden and Trey loved!
Deah and I had both signed up for the race but we decided on the drive down not to run. Instead we spent the day in Arches with the Lecheminants and had so much fun.

It was not really cold, but the wind started blowing and it got cold fast.

Kaden did not like the sand in his eyes.

Trey was telling us all where to go, as you can see.

Julie got very cold, so she tried carrying Avrey in her sweatshirt. This picture is so cute, I love Avrey's face.

The boys loved the sand and wanted to play in it or put it in their pockets. They claimed it was pixie dust.

As you can see we wore Kaden right out.

We went to Sand Dune Arch. It is perfect for kids. Lots of sand to play in and rock walls on both sides so the kids can't get out. They had a ball.

Once again we wore Kaden right out.

I think this is a great picture of Trey and,

I am not sure what to say about this picture of Kaden. He is such a funny kid.

When we got back to the hotel the boys said their feet hurt. No wonder, their shoes were full of sand.

After a lot of fun hiking and exploring, we "bathed" in the pool (I put bathed in for you Deah).

Avrey is such a sweetheart, but she is growing up way to fast!

The sand from the shoes was dumped in the tub. It is true what they say, you never seem to get rid of it.

Trey in his cool googles!

We decided to be brave an hike to Delicate Arch. I was so impressed with how well Kaden and Trey did. Kaden decided at one point that he was going to crawl there, that didn't last.

The wind at Delicate was strong but we made it and had a lot of fun a long the way. I am so glad I took a break and enjoyed family and friends!

GREEN

2011-03-16T22:31:00.002-06:00

Do you remember this famous St. Patrick's Parade!

Don't forget to wear your green tomorrow!

Ode to the Library

2011-03-12T19:35:00.011-07:00

In the 1980s I remember going to to the Provo City Library on 100 East in Provo. As I went down the stairs to the children's section there were black shoe prints leading the way. I always made sure I stepped on every footprint and I loved to check out 2-3 books.

Flash forward to 2011 and my love for the Salt Lake Library has increased more than I can express in a blog. My siblings are well aware that I get everything at the library, books, DVDs, and books on CD. Others talk about there Netflix queue and I talk about my library queue, but mine is free even though it takes longer sometimes.
The library has a book sale in the spring and fall where I have found such treasures as the Christy Minstrels records and Old School Sesame Street books.

If you have not been to your local library lately, I highly recommend it. There is no better free thing that I know of. Just follow the footprints and let the adventure begin!

Long Eyes

2011-03-11T21:43:00.004-07:00

When I was little I use to tell my family that I had long eyes that could see all the way to Disneyland!

One day, my mom asked how I got long eyes. I told her it was easy I just poured gas and water in my eyes.

I know you are thinking it is amazing that I am still alive today.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-03-09T19:56:00.002-07:00

That Easter candy is the best holiday candy on earth!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-03-07T20:48:00.002-07:00

It looks like this outside my house right now!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-03-05T22:02:00.006-07:00

Kris and Michelle had a new baby girl on March 4th, named Mariella!
She even smiled in a picture for me.

Kris was not getting enough attention so, he had a little cold but he claimed that he was practically dying. What a baby!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-27T01:09:00.000-07:00

I love this place!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-22T15:08:00.009-07:00

I taught first grade at Provost Elementary School for seven years and now...

Some of my first graders are at Timpview High School taking classes from my dad!
Time flies by too fast.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-18T18:04:00.002-07:00

My mom and all of my siblings worked at the Ream's Turtle at some point in our life.
My mom was a checker for several years.
My sister, Kim, met her husband Brad there.
Brad worked in the produce department.
Stephanie worked in the snack bar.
I was the nut girl and a checker for five years during college.
Kelly worked in the snack bar and helped me with bagging nuts over the holidays.
Kerri worked in the snack bar and helped me too.
Kris worked as a bagger, in produce and as a nut guy.
Julie and Spencer both helped me bag nuts over the holidays.

Too bad they tore the building down. No store puts up flags and big pairs of jeans quite like they did.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-15T20:43:00.001-07:00

I can almost dance as good as Elaine!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-13T21:42:00.002-07:00

Making Valentine cookies could be so much fun!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-12T22:33:00.001-07:00

I had this idea too! It is too bad that someone else acted on it first.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-10T11:38:00.000-07:00

I love doughnuts with sprinkles on top!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-09T19:38:00.001-07:00

I like to go snowshoeing!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-08T19:53:00.002-07:00

I have offered to play the recorder for ward musical numbers in previous wards. Funny, no one ever took me up on that offer.

I Bet You Didn't Know the Answers...

2011-02-07T20:37:00.007-07:00

1. Which one do I like the best?
The first Rocky movie is the best because it is the story of a man who needs to prove something to himself. He needs to prove that he can endure, stay standing, which is far more important than winning or losing.
Rocky III is a close second where a man loses confidence in his abilities and has to recreate himself.
2. Which one has the best music?
Without a doubt Rocky IV has the best music.
3. Which one is not a part of the series but instead a waste of time?
Rocky V. I tell most people that this is not a Rocky movie.
4. Which one was a pleasant surprise even though I had no expectation for it to be any good?
Rocky Balboa was better than I thought it would be. It helped redeem the series after the disaster of Rocky V. However don't have realistic expectations of this film, just watch it for entertainment value.
5. Where does the story end in my opinion?
It ends at Rocky III. Rocky IV is entertaining and fun but it tries to do to many things and recreate story lines from earlier movies.
6. What are some of the best movie lines from this series?
Hands down the best line in all the Rocky movies comes from Mic. He says: "You're gonna eat lightnin' and you're gonna crap thunder!"

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-05T20:02:00.003-07:00

I love this series of movies!

1. Which one do I like the best?

2. Which one has the best music?

3. Which one is not a part of the series but instead a waste of time?

4. Which one was a pleasant surprise even though I had no expectation for it to be any good?

5. Where does the story end in my opinion?

6. What are some of the best movie lines from this series?

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-04T22:08:00.001-07:00

I love cookie dough! Sorry to my gluten free family members.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-03T09:42:00.007-07:00

Today is Chinese New Year and this is the year of the rabbit. I was born in the year of the tiger. What year were you born in?
http://www.theholidayspot.com/chinese_new_year/zodiacs.htm

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-02T13:52:00.002-07:00

Today is ground hog day. Day of my favorite holiday and favorite movie. I hope you all get a chance to watch it.

I took my Bar Application in today. I hope I don't have to relive that experience over and over.

By the way, Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow so we can all hope for an early Spring!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-02-01T17:40:00.002-07:00

I can't Ice Skate. The people in this movie seem to be struggling too.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-31T20:54:00.001-07:00

I can sing like the chipmunks without using helium.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-30T22:31:00.000-07:00

My mom turned 65 today! Happy birthday mom, I love you!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-29T20:21:00.002-07:00

I became an aunt for the 22nd time this morning at 1:06am.

Afton Gillespie was born to Spencer and Angie weighing 7 lbs 10 oz. and measuring 21 inches long. She is a beauty and pictures will be coming soon.

Did I mention it is so awesome to be the aunt! All the fun and none of the work.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-28T22:35:00.000-07:00

I could be an aunt for the 22nd time tomorrow!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-26T22:06:00.002-07:00

When I was little I wanted to live on Sesame Street. I thought, if I broke the glass on the T.V. the people on Sesame Street would walk out of the T.V. and be in my house.

Lucky for my parents I never actually tried to break it.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-25T19:40:00.000-07:00

I love Walter's Wiggles!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-24T21:39:00.002-07:00

I have never had braces, a retainer, a bionator (that one is for you Spencer) or even a headgear. Sometimes I just miss the 80's.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-23T22:47:00.001-07:00

I teach the 11-12 year old primary class and it is basically the best calling in the church!

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

I went on a double date once with David B. and Ruby Haight.

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-21T22:08:00.001-07:00

I hate mashed potatoes and gravy!

I Bet You Didn't Know....

2011-01-20T21:36:00.003-07:00

I have moved

twenty-three times.

I wonder where the next move will be?

I Bet You Didn't Know...

2011-01-19T21:12:00.002-07:00

I have 63 first cousins. This is my Cousin Jethro. Yes, I really have a Cousin Jethro.

I Bet You Didn't Know....

2011-01-18T22:28:00.001-07:00

I can wear four spoons on my face. Now you are wondering why is this girl unmarried?

I bet you didn't know....

2011-01-17T22:11:00.001-07:00

I like Bon Jovi, you learn something new everyday.

Jacob Anderson's Baptism

2011-01-04T21:53:00.006-07:00

Andersons had Jacob's baptism while they visited over the holiday. The baptism took place on New Years Day. The hot water tank did not work so the water was heated by hand.
Brad, Kim, and Jacob.
Jacob and the Grandparents and Great Grandparents. Four Generations, amazing!

Thanks Andersons for holding the baptism here. It was great!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-26T21:04:00.014-07:00

The annual Gillespie Christmas Eve party was well attended this year. I am sure Grandpa and Grandma Gillespie look down on their posterity and feel the joy of such a wonderful family celebrating at this time of year.
Paul (Dad) and Aunt Trea with Spencer's little girl, Sadie.

Cousin Beetle (Emily) recently returned from her mission. Steph and I enjoyed catching up with her.

On Christmas morning Dad, Mom, Kelly, and I have a tradition of going to see all the families. It is my favorite tradition and the kids love to show us everything they received.

Cole is suited up for next football season.

Alaria did not want to be in the picture but we took it any way. She may have been a bit sleepy because they got up at 5:00am.

Alyssa received a latch hook kit. This brought back a lot of memories for me.

Kaitlyn got a drill so she would stop trying to steal the one from Matt.

Larsens had a great Christmas, and really helped us out when Mom became sick.

Sadie got a new kitchen and wanted Kelly to just keep playing with her.

Spencer got some fun Rudolph toys and I just had to get a picture.

Spencer and Angie had a great Christmas!

The Horton's home was our last stop. We had fun seeing all their gifts and watching Quincey set up the family for portraits. As always I am so blessed at this time of year!

No Parents Allowed

2010-12-26T20:50:00.008-07:00

Kris and Michelle had a work party, so I had a "No Parents Allowed Party" with their kids.
We made signs that said no parents were allowed and then we put our P.J.s on in the middle of the day.

We made gum drop Christmas trees and Cole made a gum drop ice cream cone.

We also frosted some cookies and put sprinkles on.

We watched Christmas movies and got very excited for the holiday. I should plan "No Parents Allowed Parties" more often.

Happy Pre-Birthday Kelly

2010-12-26T20:41:00.005-07:00

On December 21st we had a pre-birthday celebration for Kelly and celebrated Christmas as well. It was a great night!
Who can ask for better than red velvet cake...

Emily and Melinda enjoying pre-Christmas gifts.

Happy 35th Birthday Kelly!

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

Fun With Visitors

2010-12-12T13:30:00.014-07:00

Gillespies and Larsens both came up to visit me over the last two weekends and had dinner.
We got on Trax at the library and rode into temple square.
Alaria was quick to tell me the pay phone at the Trax station was her favorite part of the night.

There is a great model of the Salt Lake Temple in the South Visitors Center. I would highly recommend going to see it.

The huge tree at the Joseph Smith Building was beautiful as usual.

Saige told us all, numerous times, that the lights are "pretty" she is so cute.

I got a great picture of the nativity with my great new camera.

The Gillespies were exhausted by the end but they loved having treats.

Alyssa and Kaitlyn loved the Nutcrackers in the Joseph Smith Building.

We had a ball and I can't wait for next year!

Classic Moments with Kim, Brad, Steph, Kris and Alexis....

2010-12-03T23:34:00.001-07:00

January 2011!

2010-11-30T17:33:00.002-07:00

I love this show and I can't believe it is not on again until January 2011! Oh well, I guess this means I have to do my homework!

Thanksgiving Best and Worst 2010

2010-11-26T13:40:00.006-07:00

Best!

Kelly makes pie for the first time,
Mom and Dad get to lick the bowl,

All the pie I can eat!

Worst!

Kerri got hit in the nose,

I have no idea,

and well it's Marcus so what can you expect!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Famous Family

2010-11-22T17:28:00.001-07:00

Can't Get Enough Grub

2010-11-22T15:38:00.010-07:00

The Larsen's were in Salt Lake on Friday and came by to go out to dinner with me and then play some games at my house.
Of course I had to take them to Cowboy Grub and use my great new camera. As you can see we had ribs with the biggest bone you have ever seen. Saige really enjoyed it.
Kerri took a ride on the horse....

The kids loved the merry-go-round and the balloons...

but Matt kind of hogged the balloons!

We had a great time. My favorite quote of the the night was when I said, "I love having visitors because then I get to do fun things." Alyssa responded, "You don't have very much fun do you." Oh the innocence of youth!

After dinner we came to my house to play Scene It Disney. The girls thought it would be a good idea to have a sleepover. They said they would all sleep in this chair. As you guessed, that didn't happen.

Temple Grandin

2010-11-12T20:33:00.002-07:00

Claire Daines played Temple Grandin is a brillant way. Temple Grandin is autistic and she sees things in a very visual way. She was able to graduate high school, go to college and complete her PhD.

She is known for work done in the cattle industry that creates a more humane slaughtering methods.

I truly admire people that step up the challenges life gives them do amazing things.

If you get a chance see this movie.

Where did October go?

2010-10-29T21:21:00.005-06:00

This month has been so busy and filled with wonderful things. Deah went to the temple to receive her endowments this month and I was lucky enough to go with her. It was a great experience.
After the temple we had treats at the Horton house where we met up with Lecheminants who were visiting from Denver.

Avery is so cute!

Lecheminants made a trip to Salt Lake and came to visit me and of course you know I had to take them to Cowboy Grub. Trey thought it was called Cowboy Drug and he was quick to tell me that drugs are bad.

As you can see we had a lot of fun!

Bell Canyon

2010-09-18T21:46:00.006-06:00

Deah and I Hiked Bell Canyon tonight.
The leaves are starting to change color and it is beautiful.

I just love the outdoors!

Jam and Bread

2010-09-15T19:32:00.004-06:00

I have tried many a time to make bread from scratch but something always seems to go wrong.

Not this time, I was determined to make a loaf of whole wheat bread from scratch that looked and tasted good.

Four hours later it finally worked. Here is to not giving up!

I figure if law school does not work out I always have alternatives.

2010-09-11T23:53:00.000-06:00

Gillespie Family Reunion

2010-09-06T22:37:00.008-06:00

We had a lot of fun at the Gillespie Family Reunion thanks to Dad and John and Dorothy's planning. Not to mention the willingness of the Kellys to host us all. This picture of Kerri and Saige turned out so cute.
Lots of cousins, aunts and uncles enjoyed each other sharing stories.
Alyssa won the jelly bean guessing contest, LUCKY...!

As always we loved the pond!

It was a little cold but Brian kept up a good fire that Keena and Grandma Enjoyed.

Kelly, Malia and Quincey.

Things I Love About Fall

2010-09-02T20:57:00.005-06:00

I love the changing colors of fall....
I love that I am starting my third year of law school...

I love that Senor Chang returns September 23rd....

I love football...

I love Rocky movies all year round, but really who doesn't?

Washington Vacation

2010-08-11T18:56:00.028-06:00

I spent the first week of August in Washington at the Anderson's home with the Horton and Gillespie families.
Everyone loved the pool and I loved Alaria's outfit.

Kris had to save Steph multiple times in the pool. I just wish she would learn to swim.

We went and picked raspberries and blueberries. Later on I made raspberry jam.

We enjoyed a picnic in the park and a Mariner's Baseball Game.

It was a lot of fun and the weather was great!

We had a "special" celebration for Kim's 41st birthday including a talent show, pin the moustache on Brutus, balloon art, a pinata, and a very scary clown.

Kim had three special cakes as well. The food all week was wonderful!

I really wanted to hike while we were there so I took everyone on a hike called Twin Falls. It was beautiful and I loved hiking in Washington again.

The older girls planned a girls night for painting nails and watching Girls Just Want to Have Fun. I wanted to follow up with Newsies but Steph and Michelle would not have it.

Of course one night we made tortillas and mostly ate the dough.

Josh had so much fun he fell asleep sitting up. It was a great vacation. Thanks again Andersons!

Rocky Mountain High...

2010-07-25T20:26:00.013-06:00

I had the chance to spend the weekend with the Lecheminants in Parker, Colorado.
It was fun to see where they are living and have a chance to play. We went to see Toy Story 3 on the first day I was there.

Then we had a picnic in the park and went to a fun farm close by.

Avrey would not let me take a picture of her so I got some funny ones instead.

She is a beautiful girl.

Trey and Kaden were great tour guides through the farm, even though Kaden did not feel very well.

They had an olden days school house on at the farm. Trey was the perfect teacher.

Julie and I saw this sign and thought it was funny. There were similar signs throughout the farm but most said please do not feed the animals or pet the animals. We liked this one because it just said please do not. We felt all kids could take a place under that sign.

Jeff decided to show Avrey the cow...

The cow was more than happy to say hello! Thanks Lecheminants for an awesome weekend! I love you guys!

Free Floats Please!

2010-07-20T23:28:00.012-06:00

As many of you know I'm all about free stuff. In fact I am in love with the Salt Lake Library much to my sisters Stephanie and Julie's chagrin. So when I found out all the Days of 47 Parade Floats would be on display at the South Towne Expo Center for free I invited family and went to check it out.
Kris and Michelle came up on Monday night for family night and we had a ball! I am sure you can tell by the look on Josh's face.

Leave it to Kris and Cole to find the only cow pie on any of the the floats and then...

Put it on their head.

My stake made a float which I voted for. The entire float was made of blankets that will be donated to humanitarian aid. The stake made 1,700 blankets total.

On June 20th Kerri came up with her girls and we had a girls night out viewing the floats.

The girls had balloons made for them.

Alyssa got a flower hat and Kaitlyn got, you guessed it, a kitty.

After the floats we continued our girls night at the Mayan. The divers came to our table and wished Kaitlyn a happy birthday. It was great fun! Have I mentioned that I have a great family.

Red Rover and a Whole Lot More

2010-07-10T20:57:00.011-06:00

We had a picnic in the park on July 9th before Andersons headed back to Washington. Kelly got all the kids to play red rover and they had a ball!
Saige is growing up so fast and had fun at the picnic. What a pretty girl!

Grandma Gillespie had fun with the kids on the playground and even went down the slide.

After the park we went to the Horton's for a movie night. It started to rain so we came in and I played with Ali and Quincey in the playroom. Good thing no pictures were taken of me in the dress ups!

I slept over at the Horton's and when we woke up we did some old journal reading and then Marcus came upstairs in a very interesting outfit.

Then Jacob made two...

Cory and Caleb made four boys in the boxers.

The End

Fourth of July

2010-07-04T21:33:00.014-06:00

The Fourth of July Weekend was once again filled with Gillespie Family fun, starting with the sleepover in the backyard.

We roasted marshmallows in the backyard and slept in tents. As always Spencer and Kris were both spazes.
Grandpa made snow cones and Cole loved the tiger's blood.

The kids became pretty sleepy but they were going like crazy all night.

Anderson's drove down for the week and we enjoyed having them at the sleepover. At 6:00am we headed to the balloon festival on the Fox Field.

The wind was bad so very few balloons inflated, but as always we had fun together.

In the evening we had a fun picnic and then went to the park to play kickball before the fireworks!

As you can see, two full days of fun with very little sleep fills the kids with so much feeling. I love my family!

The Soloist

2010-06-28T21:40:00.003-06:00

I watched this movie tonight and I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. This movie made me think about mental illness and how to best support those who have a mental disability.

I really enjoyed the movie and I now plan to read the book.

Alyssa Larsen's Baptism

2010-06-26T19:51:00.008-06:00

On June 26th Alyssa was baptized.

Four generations strong.

Matt and Kerri did a great job!
What a special day for a special girl!

Mormon Mission Biz - CNBC.com

2010-06-16T09:45:00.000-06:00

Mormon Mission Biz - CNBC.com

Alexis' Graduation

2010-06-14T20:05:00.013-06:00

Alexis graduated on June 11, 2010. Kelly, Mom, Dad and I went up to Washington for the event. Andersons were busy preparing for the graduation so we took a drive to see Snoqualime Falls.
It was very full and beautiful.

They have remodeled the grounds around Snoqualime and it looks great!

Alexis' graduation was at Safeco Field, where the Seattle Mariners play. Kim was well prepared to get Mom through the crowds. Overall it was a really successful evening.

We took a few pictures with Alexis before her senior all night party. Kim and Brad did not have a lot of time because they chaired the senior party committee and did an amazing job. Alexis, Brad and Kim left after pictures and did not return until the next morning around 5:00am.

Cory turned 11 on June 11th as well. Everyone was very focused on the graduation so I made a cake for Cory and we threw a mini-Party during the senior party. We had cake and Cory introduced me to the movie Tommy Boy.

The weather on Saturday, June 12th, was beautiful. We enjoyed the pool and the sunshine.

In the evening we went into Seattle and picked up fruit at Pike Place Market. Kelly also wanted to go to a doughnut place she had seen on the food network. We went and the doughnuts were great!

Before leaving on Monday morning we took so pictures of the divas. Needless to say it was an awesome weekend with the Andersons.

What's New at the Zoo...

2010-06-05T22:35:00.009-06:00

Kris and Michelle came up to the zoo today. After I finished my shift at the temple I met up with them and enjoyed a fun evening.
We liked the gorillas...

Who makes the best monkey face?

This elephant sprayed water on people. Josh sat on it and got so excited when it sprayed!

After the zoo we went to eat at a place called Cowboy Grub. It was a lot of fun. The kids could ride this horse and a merry-go-round for free so of course we had a rodeo!

The food was great and we had a lot of fun. I love to have visitors!

(I am not even going to try to explain this picture)

Grand Opening of the Horton's Store, Seven Circles!

2010-05-31T09:33:00.002-06:00

2010-05-31T00:08:00.003-06:00

It all started when I watched season 1 of Lost in the Fall of 2009. I was hooked and watched faithfully all the way to "The End" on May 23rd.

It was funny to watch people and the media review the final episode. There was a very fine line, people loved it or hated it. Kind of like the way people feel about Neil Diamond.

It will come as no shock to anyone that I loved the ending even though everything was not answered or clarified. But I tend to be that way about shows. For example, I love Alfred Hitchcock movies like "The Birds" and "Vertigo." If you have ever seen either of these movies you know that the ending does not bring closure and there is something about that which is exciting to me.

The moral to this story is that "Lost" is not for everyone. If you want everything to make sense in the end this show is not for you. The show lives up to its title, so if you watch it be prepared to be lost!

Life Can be a Day in the Park

2010-05-08T22:12:00.013-06:00

For my birthday I held a picnic in the park. Grandma and Andy did a little joy riding and ...

...got pulled over by Officer Spencer for not wearing a helmet. It was so funny.
Two amazing men in my life!
Alyssa and Kaitlyn

Keena found this cat in the park and became a bit crazy about it. She chased it the rest of the night.

Kelly and Spencer

Alyssa, Cole and Marcus

The best grandparents in the world.

Quincey

Mom, Steph, and Grandma

What an awesome family I have. I love these guys!