Jeff and Shanna

Jen's History

2012-01-24T20:27:00.000-08:00

This is an excerpt of my sister's "YOU.S. History" paper. It was split into chapters to tell her life story, in the third person. She is such an awesome girl and I know she will go far in the future with whatever she decides to pursue.

Chapter 6: And I was like, baby, baby, baby, ohhhh.

In February of 2011, Jen received the greatest news of her life. Her oldest sister Shanna who had been married 4 years at this point, was expecting a beautiful baby boy in September. Jen and her family's lives were consumed with the unborn infant, and every conversation seemed to involve baby names, future things to do with the baby, and not to mention the endless marathons of TLC's "A Baby Story" or Lifetime's "One Born Every Minute" meant to prepare my anxious sister for the miracle of life. Jen was her sister's self-appointed "baby manager", which included the duties of watching way too many birthing videos, shopping for the most fashionable baby clothes, and attending all of the doctor's appointments. Jen's sister, Shanna, is a type-1 diabetic and also suffers from Crohn's disease, another chronic illness, so Jen was often in attendance at appointments with her high-risk doctors who gave her the job of monitoring her sister's diet and helping her when she was too tired. Shanna's poor husband probably felt left out as Jen took of the role of all things baby but he saw how excited she was for her big sister and let her have free reign. Now amongst all this baby talk, there was also talk of a wedding as Jen's other sister, Stephanie, was engaged to be married on July 8th. It was definitely an adventurous year for the Gauger family and Jen imagined that this year's Christmas card would practically write itself with all the hooplah going on. But there was one thing Jen didn't imagine and that no one in the family expected. On July 7, 2011, Jen drove her ever-expanding sister to a routine check-up with the high risk doctor. The two were their normal, or rather, abnormal, silly selves throughout the whole car ride and the waiting room. When they arrived, Shanna's blood pressure was measured and found to be at sky-rocketing levels and they were sent to the triage center. Jen sat down by the window next to her sister's purse and tried not to worry as her sister lay in the hospital bed, just 5 feet away, in one of those hideous beige gowns and waited for the doctor to enter the room. The nurse came in to check the baby's heart rate...unsuccessfully. She grabbed the doctor and he came in with the ultrasound machine. Jen watched as the doctor moved the machine up, down, and all around, seeing her beautiful nephew but hearing an absolute deafening silence. The doctor explained that at some point between Shanna's ultrasound the previous day and that moment, the baby's heart had merely stopped beating. The words the doctor spoke came on unusual sound waves, waves that seemed to take entire minutes to crash upon her ear drums and even longer to be processed by the brain. Here, Jen sat and stared at her oldest sister, the one she had always admired and idolized, refusing to believe that this was happening. She rationalized that the God she had faithfully believed in her whole life would not and could not let this happen. She had witnessed her sister in the hospital so many times that she could not accept this, she tried to argue that the doctor wasn't fully trained, that the machine was malfunctioning, that this was all one horrible nightmare. But it wasn't. That day will remain as clear as the ocean on a Hawaii beach for the rest of Jen's life. She will never forget the way her sister was absolutely still until her husband arrived, nor the sounds of the cries she made as her husband came to her side, the memories of the tiny casket and the unworn baby clothes will never fade but will remain forever etched in her mind. But as life tends to do, it continued on, Stephanie's wedding was the next morning and it was too late to postpone it all. Shanna would remain in the hospital and deliver her unblinking child two days later while the rest of the family would be posing for pictures with the bride and groom, trying so hard to get just one honest smile, trying so hard to be happy at a time where it just wasn't possible.

Chapter 7: I get knocked down, but I get up again, you ain't ever gonna keep me down.

In the past year alone, Jen has felt the bitter sting of pain and the immense joy of blessings and realizes how much these recent events have shaped her present and will shape her future. Currently Jen spends her days at Antelope High School, her nights at home watching the Game Show Network, and her weekends with her siblings. She happily lists her two older sisters as her best friends with her brothers-in-law at a close second. She has come to realize the truth in the master cliché, life truly is unpredictable. Sometimes, your friends change, sometimes, you change, and sometimes, things just plain suck. But Jen has adopted a new theme song by Chumbawamba as well as the mantra that while every day may not be good, there is something good in every day. She looks forward to the rest of high school and then college in the fall of twenty-thirteen with the memories and scars of her history leading her to a bright future knowing that if she gets knocked down, she will get up again, because there ain't nothing gonna keep her down.

Boston 7.9.11

2012-01-04T19:32:00.000-08:00

I've been wanting to share my favorite photos of 2011.

Boston would have been 6 months on January 9.

Mama's Boy

Daddy's baseball buddy

Happy 2012

2012-01-04T19:20:00.000-08:00

2011 was a rough road for us and we are looking forward to new adventures in the coming months:

I start my last semester of college on January 23
Jeff is job hunting while still working for UPS and he turns 28 in March
We fly to Texas in 44 days for our Western Caribbean cruise to celebrate Grandpa Woody's 80th birthday

Christmas was wonderful, we got to spend lots of time with family. My aunt, uncle and two cousins from France visited for two weeks (and they may have convinced us to visit them in July!). Another uncle and his family visited from Hollister and Jeff's brother and his family visited from Chico. It is wonderful to have family near and far.

We are so grateful for our Savior who was born to save us all. May you have faith, hope and love for the new year and always.

Graduation

2011-12-01T10:08:00.001-08:00

Jeff graduated with his bachelor's degree in Business Management on May 21, 2011 from California State University-Sacramento. We are all so proud of him. Now he is busy filling out job applications to see where the future leads us.

Disneyland

2011-11-16T18:50:00.000-08:00

We went to Disneyland last week and had a blast. This is a fun video we took of my favorite ride- California Screamin'.

Shanna and Jeff about to go on Jeff's favorite ride- Star Tours

Trapped in a toy box

Shan and Mickey

Birthday Fun

2011-11-06T17:58:00.000-08:00

Love these girls. So glad we could have a fun birthday weekend together!

Before the whipped cream smashing

After the whipped cream was smashed

The culprit...Steph is going down

Lucille's BBQ-November 4

I got spoiled this weekend with hanging out with my family and eating lots of yummy food for my birthday! We went to Lucille's BBQ for dinner on Friday night. Then Saturday morning began with breakfast at the Original Pancake House in Rocklin. Saturday night ended the festivities with cake and ice cream at grandma's- and a lot of sisterly bonding.

My actual birthday is today and it has been nice and quiet, with church and a fireside to go to. Jeff made me dinner and some very delicious funfetti cake cookies. Yummmy. Thanks to everyone who wished me a happy birthday and celebrated with me.

Funfetti cookies! Yum Yum

Happy Sunday!

2011-10-30T23:09:00.000-07:00

We have been busy the last couple of months. I started school in August and will graduate in May 2012 with a bachelor's degree in Child Development. Jeff finished his Business Management degree and graduated in May from Sac State. We joined a softball league and had lots of fun on our team, "Freaky Friday." We played for a month and a half every Friday night, and finished 3 and 4. We went to Hawaii in April and Colorado and Utah in July. My sister got married! We went to our family cabin for Labor day. We are going to Disneyland in two weeks and can't wait for our family cruise in February! I will turn 26 next week and can't believe how fast time goes. We are so blessed, even amidst everything we went through this Summer and continue to go through.

HAWAII 2011

Kauai- April 2011 with Jeff's parents

Jeff, Shan, Steph and Austin at Sacramento temple-

July 1, 2011

Jen, Mom, Steph, Austin, and Dad- July 8, 2011

Families are Forever

COLORADO-JULY 2011

Cabin-Labor Day 2011

Twin BFF's- Amanda and Jen

Shan and Jeff in Big Trees-September 2011

We know the Lord hears our prayers and has sent people in our lives to uplift and teach us. We couldn't be more grateful for the support and love we have from everyone around us- near and far. We are learning more intently what faith is as we go through the difficult trial of losing Boston. We are, somewhat reluctantly, learning that it is His will and not ours. We enjoyed every second of general conference and had so much hope in the future as we listened to the Prophet and Apostles. One of many of my favorite talks can be read here.

Our Baby Story

2011-09-17T22:23:00.000-07:00

I’ve always wanted to have children since I was little. I remember growing up playing house and thinking about my goal of becoming a teacher. I loved babysitting as a teenager and I enjoyed having a sister that was ten years younger than me so I could treat her like my own “daughter.” When I was nine years old, I was diagnosed with diabetes and Crohn’s disease in the same week. I quickly grew up and began dealing with health challenges I never thought I would be dealt. However, my goal of becoming a mom and raising children never faded. I knew I could do it. I began college and decided to major in child development- I felt that was the best path to fulfill my lifelong goal of being the best mom in the world (after my own mom of course!).

I began dating Jeff and could tell how important family was to him. Whenever the topic of kids came up while we were engaged he would always say he wanted “to have as many children as the Lord blessed us with.” He was intrigued with his little nephew, Isaiah, and I could just tell that raising kids with him by my side was going to be one fun ride! We married in March 2007 and life was busy. School and work occupied most of our time and quickly health problems arose for me. As much as I wanted to add to our family, I knew that my health needed to improve so I could have a healthy baby of my own. Health problems continued and looking back I am not sure how I got through each day. I was having monthly blood transfusions and not getting better. It finally came to a point where Jeff and I didn’t want to wait to have children any longer, we knew the Lord would provide the way for us to expand our family. So, we logged onto lds.org and looked for adoption options. Then we filled out the paperwork, met with our bishop and we were about to write a check when I got a weird feeling. I felt like it was almost too good to be true when I took a pregnancy test and saw the plus sign on it. On January 21, the first reaction I had was scared. I knew my health problems might pose a problem on our little baby so I made a doctor appointment with the high risk department and made a plan to be the healthiest I could be for our baby no matter what happened.

My stomach problems got incredibly better and my diabetes was difficult but manageable with the team of doctors I had. I continued taking my medicine and vitamins, I got healthier and felt great. I didn’t have a day of morning sickness and I slept great. My high risk doctors followed me closely and I faxed in blood sugars every couple of days so they could adjust my insulin levels. We found out at 15 weeks that we were having a boy and we thought the name Boston sounded like a great name for a cute little boy playing little league.

I got sick around 9:30pm on the Sunday before the fourth of July. I began throwing up and feeling awful. I had just entered the third trimester and I heard that is when morning sickness comes back. So I just figured I had morning sickness or food poisoning. I noticed more swelling than normal but I attributed that to the summer heat. Meanwhile, I stayed home and kept throwing up. I called Kaiser’s advice line and they told me I should be okay if I could keep food down some of the time. I stayed home Tuesday because I still wasn’t feeling great. Then Wednesday morning I had an ultrasound appointment. I was 29 weeks. Jeff and I went to Morse Avenue and saw our little guy with a heartbeat of 150 bpm. I was happy to see a heartbeat since I was so sick earlier in the week. I went to work after the appointment.

The next morning I had a high risk appointment in Roseville. Jeff was going to be at work, so I decided to take my sister Jen with me. I picked her up and off we went to the doctor. The nurse took my blood pressure and told me I needed to go to labor and delivery immediately. I wasn’t nervous yet, since yesterday’s ultrasound was normal, or so I thought. My sister and I joked the whole way to labor and delivery and I even told them I couldn’t stay long because my sister was getting married the next day.

They got me in a room and they gave me a gown and hooked me up with fetal monitors. The nurse began looking for the heartbeat and she couldn’t find it. I thought she was a new nurse and didn’t know what she was doing. She called in Dr.Zimmerman to check for the heartbeat and he looked over to me and said there was no heartbeat that he could find, he even called in another doctor to check. I told him “no, you’re wrong, my ultrasound was fine yesterday, his heart was beating.” And he looked straight in my eyes and said “your baby passed away overnight, I am sorry.” I was in shock, no tears, no frown, no screaming. I was silent and I was hurting inside but I still didn’t want to believe it. I wasn’t going to believe it. I needed my husband to tell me it was all a mistake. My sister was there with me in the room and my dad had shown up because my sister told him to come. Soon, Jeff came and didn’t know a thing. We have been in plenty of hospital rooms together while I have been the patient so this was not something new to us. He waltzed in and I was stone cold with my eyes focusing on a picture in the room. My family left the room and I burst into tears. I cried and cried and looked up to Jeff and said “we were so close.”

The next four days were a blur. I found out I would have to deliver my stillborn son and that my blood pressure was dangerously high- 195/120. I had developed severe Pre-eclampsia and would have to be hooked up to magnesium to prevent seizures and wait until after I delivered to have my blood pressure come down. My high blood pressure and condition had cut off the blood supply to my placenta and Boston wasn’t getting the blood he needed. I didn’t sleep unless I was knocked out through IV meds, I didn’t eat because I wasn’t hungry, I missed my sister’s wedding because I was in the hospital. The doctor’s gave me a day to think about everything that was happening and on Friday night they asked me if I was ready to go into labor. They gave me medicine to start labor and nothing really happened. I was then given pitocin and within an hour I went from a three to a ten. I got an epidural, it took three tries and didn’t really work because my body was so swollen. I felt the pain of contractions and labor but it wasn’t too bad. At 3:20am on Saturday, July 9 I delivered my sleeping son. He was 2 pounds 6 oz. and 16 inches long. He had long toes and a button nose. He also had lots of hair. I loved him the second I saw him, I knew he was mine and that I was a mother. We got to spend the morning and afternoon with him next to us. We were able to hold him and take pictures with him. It was the most precious day I have ever had. I could literally see Heaven in my little boy’s face. His spirit was with us in that hospital room.

I don’t know why tragic things happen to people or why this had to happen to us. Life has not been easy since our little Boston passed away. But we do have hope in the future, hope that we will see him again, hope that our eternal family will one day grow larger, and hope in the gospel. We will meet again and forever be joined in the eternities. Today is my due date, the date Boston was supposed to come into the world and bless our lives. However, we find comfort in knowing that he is in a better place and blessing the lives of others. We are grateful for the time we had with him here on earth and he will always be loved and never forgotten.

We love you Boston. Love, Mommy and Daddy

Today...

2011-08-14T17:24:00.000-07:00

Our Boston wall, done by Jeff's brother Phill.

Today has been a hard day- someone made me cry. I thought I was prepared for people saying things and I vowed not to get offended when it happened. But it was so much harder than I thought. I couldn't keep the tears from coming. Each day has it's ups and downs and yesterday was a great day. But I only know yesterday was great because I have had not so great days.

"For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my first-born in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must needs be a compound in one; wherefore, if it should be one body it must needs remain as dead, having no life neither death, nor corruption nor incorruption, happiness nor misery, neither sense nor insensibility." -2 Nephi 2:11

I know the atonement is real and the only person who knows exactly the way I feel is my Savior. This talk has brought me comfort lately.

"I believe that mortality’s supreme test is to face the “why” and then let it go, trusting humbly in the Lord’s promise that “all things must come to pass in their time." -Lance B. Wickman

Tiny Footprints

2011-07-24T11:43:00.000-07:00

These are my footprints,
so perfect and so small.
These tiny footprints
never touched the ground at all.

Not one tiny footprint,
for now I have wings.
These tiny footprints were meant
for other things.

You will hear my tiny footprints,
in the patter of the rain.
Gentle drops like angel's tears,
of joy and not from pain.

You will see my tiny footprints,
in each butterflies' lazy dance.
I'll let you know I'm with you,
if you just give me the chance.

You will see my tiny footprints,
in the rustle of the leaves.
I will whisper names into the wind,
and call each one that grieves.

Most of all, these tiny footprints,
are found on Mommy and Daddy's hearts.
Cause even though I'm gone now,
We'll never truly part.

“Dear Heavenly Father, I do not know how I can go on. I have nothing left—except my faith in Thee. I feel, Father, amidst the desolation of my soul, an overwhelming gratitude for the atoning sacrifice of Thy Son, Jesus Christ. I cannot express adequately my love for Him. I know that because He suffered and died, I shall live again with my family; that because He broke the chains of death, I shall see my children again and will have the joy of raising them. Though I do not at this moment wish to live, I will do so, that we may be reunited as a family and return—together—to Thee.”

None of us makes it through this life without problems and challenges—and sometimes tragedies and misfortunes. After all, in large part we are here to learn and grow from such events in our lives. We know that there are times when we will suffer, when we will grieve, and when we will be saddened. However, we are told, “Adam fell that men might be; and men are, that they might have joy.”

I testify to you that our promised blessings are beyond measure. Though the storm clouds may gather, though the rains may pour down upon us, our knowledge of the gospel and our love of our Heavenly Father and of our Savior will comfort and sustain us and bring joy to our hearts as we walk uprightly and keep the commandments. There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us. My beloved brothers and sisters, fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.

-From an excerpt from Thomas S. Monson's talk, "Be of Good Cheer"

Boston Lee Cardenaz

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

Because we know you care about us, we want you to know that on July 9, 2011 our wished for baby passed quickly through our lives. We are saddened, but we know that we will see him again. You can help us through this difficult time by letting us talk about our sorrow when we feel the need, allowing us to cry when we want, and not pretending everything is okay when it's not. We are grateful for the atonement of our Savior and our testimonies of the plan of Salvation. We are a forever family through temple blessings. It will take time, but with your support we will make it.

*Graveside services will be held next week.

Moments that Matter Most

2011-06-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

SECTIONALS!

2011-05-01T18:27:00.001-07:00

Guess who is going to swim sectionals?! This gorgeous girl...and she is going to rock it. Jeff and I have loved going to her meets and cheering her on. She always does great and she is ALWAYS improving her times. We love her and are so proud of her. Way to go Jen!

P.S.- Baby boy is doing great...he is now the size of a soda can and I am halfway through the pregnancy!

His Sacred Name - An Easter Declaration

2011-04-18T21:33:00.000-07:00

Aloha!

2011-03-26T21:06:00.000-07:00

This year has gone by so fast already and has brought great blessings. Life is going wonderful-we leave for Hawaii on Wednesday (same day as our 4th wedding anniversary), my health has been improving each day, Jeff graduates in May and we are expecting a little baby boy in September. Miracles happen and we are so grateful to be a part of them each day. Life is good... and we are a forever family!

Happy 2011!

2011-01-01T13:06:00.000-08:00

Shanna and Jeff at the North Highlands Community Center

Glow Pretzel by Jeff

Nice stache'

T.M.I...nuff said

This made me smile

2010-12-16T20:28:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas!

New York

2010-12-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

For Shanna's 25th birthday, Jeff told her that he would take her to Boise, Idaho for a birthday getaway. Meanwhile, the sneaky Jeff actually planned a whole trip to New York City. We, along with Jeff's mom Stephanie, left Sacramento on Thursday, November 4 and arrived in Seattle in the afternoon. Our next flight was going to Newark, New Jersey with a "stop" in Boise. Stephanie works for Alaska Airlines and we were able to fly stand by with her flight benefits. Stephanie even got the clerks at the counter to announce that our flight was stopping in Boise so I wouldn't know that we were going to New Jersey and not Idaho. We arrived in Newark at around 2am on November 5 and Shanna still was clueless about what was going on. Finally, after landing and being asked if she was going to New York or New Jersey she figured out she wasn't in Boise...you would almost think she was a blond. Jeff pulled off the best birthday surprise ever. We got off the plane and stayed the night in Newark. In the morning we took a taxi across to New York City. We checked in at our hotel, the Millenium UN Plaza Hotel located at 44th Street between First and Second Streets. We loved the city and we saw so much- Grand Central Station, Chrysler building, Rachel Ray studios, NYC library, three famous skating rinks, Times Square, Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial, Ground Zero, Rockefeller Center, Magnolia Bakery, Tiffany and Co., Central Park, Manhattan temple, The Plaza Hotel, Apple store, FAO Schwartz, Empire State Building and more! We loved it all and we already want to go back. Such a great birthday memory.

Christmas Cards

2010-11-23T20:05:00.000-08:00

I love the holidays-the crisp, crunchy fall leaves, the smell of cinnamon and freshly baked cookies, the family togetherness, the Christmas cards and reconnecting with old friends and the Spirit of Christ make me so happy. This year has brought a lot of change and I can’t wait to share some new pictures and a little update in our Christmas cards this year. I’ve made my cards in the past but because of a great deal from Shutterfly I am going to use one of their templates this year. I am super excited to choose a cute Christmas card and have Shutterfly take the stress off of me (especially with finals creeping up). Not only am I using them to do my cards this year, I am also creating a scrapbook of our trip to New York. If you’re a blogger and want to check out this deal go here. Check out their awesome cards here.

The Well

2010-10-17T14:29:00.000-07:00

Most weeknights after class you will find Jeff and I hanging out here. To be completely honest, I go more for the entertainment than the exercise. I get on the bike, turn on the Food Network and life is good. I watch other people put on the calories while I am working them off, it really works out nicely.

Apple Hill

2010-10-09T18:16:00.000-07:00

Today we went to Apple Hill with the Fruits and we couldn't have asked for better weather. We drank some really yummy apple cider, watched the fish jump out of the pond, went on a hayride, watched 'R' ride a pony, picked out pumpkins, had tri-tip sandwiches, picked apples off the trees, had "Denver Dan" (who is actually Apple Al) put delicious apples on our thumbs, and tried some very yummy sour cream apple pie with a crumb topping. Such a fun day, we love the Fruits!

We become what we want to be by consistently being what we want to become each day.

2010-10-07T20:31:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I enjoyed an uplifting and "sweet" weekend watching General Conference and eating these 'oh so delicious melt in your mouth cinnamon rolls' every chance we got. Go here to read one of my favorite talks. Happy Fall!

2010-09-05T19:49:00.000-07:00

We went to the River Cats on August 27th. We had delicious tri-tip sandwiches and Big Spoon yogurt. Go River Cats! 11-3

Cabin Trip

2010-09-05T19:30:00.001-07:00

For our last weekend of freedom before school started (Aug. 20-22), we went to the Jarman family cabin in Arnold and we brought Rick and Nicole. We spent some time at the lake, played with Lincoln Logs and kicked it old school with Sega Genesis. It was nice and relaxing!

Snowboard Bench

2010-09-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

Jeff decided to put some old snowboards to use by making them into a bench. He recruited the help of his brother Rick and together they cut the wood, stained the wood and screwed down the boards. It looks fantastic.

Dillon's Beach

2010-09-05T18:46:00.000-07:00

From July 22-24 Jeff and I stayed in Dillon's beach at a beach house with my family. It was a lot of fun and Jeff even braved the chilly water of the ocean. We were celebrating my grandparent's 50th wedding anniversary. My grandparents are such good examples and they truly love and support us.

Utah

2010-09-05T18:44:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I went to Utah from July 9-12 and stayed with Phill and Jeannine. We had a blast with Isaiah and Chase the whole time (and all the adults too). Jeff's grandparents flew in from Texas and lots more family came too! We went swimming, saw Toy Story 3, ate some good food, went to Salt Lake, celebrated three birthdays and squeezed in a visit to Lehi to see my uncle Jim and his family. We can't wait to see everyone again.

Here is what we have been up to during April and May...

2010-05-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

CAR ACCIDENT

I was in a bad car accident last Saturday where a car rammed into my passenger side at 40 MPH. Our Nissan Sentra is totaled but I am okay. It was scary and intense but I know someone was looking out for me to have walked away from such a bad scene.

TORN MENISCUS

Jeff injured his left knee at work (UPS) and just found out he has a complex tear on his meniscus (the cushioning on the inside of the knee). We learned today that he will have to have surgery to have the tear cut out. The healing takes anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months. Looks like he has new summer plans!

WE MOVED!

Our first place :)
2007-2010

We live closer to Sac State now. Our whole apartment is the size of our old master bedroom, but we are nice and cozy and having fun! Jeff only has to commute 5-10 minutes to work, rather than 40 minutes. And he walks to school from home. We couldn't have been more grateful for the opportunity we had to start the first years of our marriage house sitting for such great friends, the Bassett family. It was something that has blessed us immensely and we will never forget their kind service to us.

RANDOM

Jeff has been super busy with school, and he finishes his last final tomorrow for the semester.
I have been wearing my welcome out at Kaiser, still trying to adjust medicine for my stomach problems.
We celebrated my sisters 19th birthday and I am still trying to believe that she is that old.
We took pictures for Mother's Day...
We went to a Rivercats game and had some fun in the sun.

Happy 3rd Anniversary...

2010-03-30T20:28:00.000-07:00

Breakfast in bed
Shopping
Bowling
Hot date at Benihana's
Drive Ins

Each day gets better with my best friend.

Things I'm Grateful for this week...and always

2010-02-03T20:34:00.000-08:00

• Doctors (who know what they’re doing)
• Pain Medicine (it works like magic)
• Blood Banks (GIVE BLOOD, it saves lives-it saved mine)
• A flexible job and caring boss (love my dad)
• Medical benefits through UPS (my drug benefit saved me $2,789.10 on my new medicine and my hospital stay was FREE)
• Drugs (not the street ones…the doctor ones that make me feel better and keep me alive)
• The most supportive and understanding husband, family and friends

This week has been a rough one. I have Crohn’s disease, which is a chronic disease that affects my intestines and lines them with ulcers, resulting in severe abdominal pain and many other not so fun things. I went to the hospital last Wednesday very weak with a dangerously low blood count. I ended up staying five days and getting a blood transfusion. My hemoglobin was a 6.7 and normal ranges from 11-15. I am now a firm supporter of giving blood, and while I can’t donate my own blood, I urge everyone who can to donate blood. My health issues continue to remind me of how blessed I am each day and what a wonderful support system I have around me. Thank you for the visits, the prayers and the sincere get well wishes.

The Best is Yet to Be

2010-01-13T16:18:00.000-08:00

"The past is to be learned from but not lived in. We look back to claim the embers from glowing experiences but not the ashes. And when we have learned what we need to learn and have brought with us the best that we have experienced, then we look ahead and remember that faith is always pointed toward the future. Some of you may wonder: Is there any future for me? What does a new year or a new semester, a new major or a new romance, a new job or a new home hold for me? Will I be safe? Will life be sound? Can I trust in the Lord and in the future? Or would it be better to look back, to go back, to stay in the past? I call out, Faith is for the future. Faith builds on the past but never longs to stay there. Faith trusts that God has great things in store for each of us and that Christ truly is the "high priest of good things to come." -Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

2009-12-13T16:11:00.000-08:00

How to Have a More Worshipful Christmas

Replace some holiday decorations in your home with reminders of Christ.
Politely decline requests that will take you away from family.
Play more Christmas music.
Donate gently used items to a thrift store.
Go Christmas caroling.
Avoid mad rush shopping times.
Say thank you as often as possible.
Schedule a night to help another person or family.
Call someone you normally wouldn't to wish him or her a Merry Christmas.
Delegate some holiday preparations to children or other family members.
Trim the gift list.
Simplify a traditional activity.
Find quiet time to pray.
Write down great memories as they happen.
Set and stick to a holiday budget.
Forgive a grudge.
For more ideas go here.

Sneak Peek...

2009-12-12T02:03:00.000-08:00

Drop me a note if you want a Christmas card!

Up Close and Personal

2009-12-12T01:41:00.000-08:00

Watching and listening to the Nets next plays...

Christy and Charlie Fruits-Charlie was in basketball heaven!

Shan and Jeff

Nets coach and player...nice size difference!

On November 27 Jeff and I went to the Sacramento Kings game with friends and family. We had a great view and had tons of fun! The Kings rocked the house against the New Jersey Nets. The Nets coach was a little crazy on the court, but I suppose thats why he was fired 3 days later... oh and the fact they hadn't won the last seventeen games.

Missing the hubby...

2009-10-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

Jeff is in Alabama for 11 days for a mission companion's wedding. Bring on the chocolate, the shopping and the HGTV channel...

Conference Buns

2009-10-13T22:00:00.001-07:00

Jeff and I were really excited to watch Conference a few weeks ago. We love listening to the talks and feeling inspired to do better and be better and serve more. I decided this time that I would try making some of Tammy Scott's famous cinnamon rolls, and try to make it a "semi-annual" tradition when we watch General Conference to have them. These are homemade delicious wannabe Cinnabons that melt in your mouth and should only be eaten every six months because they are so sweet and you can really get carried away with eating them all! Thanks Tammy for your delicious recipe and all your help with getting the ingredients! It is a pretty intense recipe, but well worth all the effort! If you want the recipe, let me know.

Bye Bye Summer

2009-10-03T15:59:00.000-07:00

Summer is over and fall is here! The air is turning crisp and I am getting the urge to bake...or at least attempt it again. Maybe this year my cookies will turn out? Probably not.

School started on August 31 and ever since then life has been a blur. Jeff is taking 15 units and I am taking 12. He is working 4am to 9am at UPS and then going to school and I am working 8am to 3pm and then going to school. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday nights are class and Wednesday night is mutual. Wooo what a load...but I can honestly say I LOVE IT! I am 29 units away from my BA in Child Development, which I am aiming for next Fall to graduate with Jeff. My house has never been cleaner and my health has never been so...healthy! I am sleeping better than a baby and working harder than most adults (ok...maybe not so much).

I would be lying if I told you it was all because of me that I have been so happy and energetic. I am really putting every day in the Lord's hands. There is no way I could do what I am doing without the Lord's help. He has blessed me with things I didn't even know I needed. He has blessed me with confidence in my educational abilities, He has given me opportunities for my self esteem to increase, He has calmed my fears and brought balance to my life, He has quieted my anxieties, He has brought opportunities for growth in ways I never would have imagined, He has stifled my temper. I am trying not to let harsh judgments or cruel criticism linger in my thoughts, I am focusing on the things that matter most, I am a better driver, I am a happier person, I am truly becoming the person that the Lord wants me to be. I am setting goals and accomplishing them, I am reading scriptures every night and finding similarities with me and Nephi, I am talking to my Savior and my Eternal Father in a very real way and asking for help with my faults and weaknesses and every day life. Surviving this semester has meant sacrificing my time and hobbies and really focusing only on the things that have an eternal consequence- my family, the gospel and my schooling. When there happens to be a night that I don't have something going on, I find myself feeling unproductive. There is always work to be done and I have learned this in a very few short months. Whether it is serving others or serving the Lord, we should always be anxiously engaged in a good cause.

I am grateful for the lessons I learn when I don't even expect them. Life is good and I am happy.

Oregon

2009-09-03T23:41:00.001-07:00

We went to Brookings, Oregon at the end of August to pick up my grandma in her motor home. It was a quick weekend trip and our last trip of the Summer. We had a lot of fun and the weather was beautiful.

Summer Grillin'

2009-09-03T22:35:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to finally make a decent meal that included meat that wasn't chicken. I actually used the BBQ for the first time and the meat came out tender and delicious. It was pork loin that I marinated and grilled for about 12 minutes. I thought I would document this moment, just in case it never happens again!

Yummmyyy!

Summer fun in Seattle

2009-08-09T21:45:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I flew to Seattle on Saturday a few weeks ago to check out downtown and have a fun day trip before school started. Jeff's mom went with us too (thats how we got to fly...thanks Stephanie!). We checked out the World famous "Pikes Market" and went to the Space Needle. The fresh flowers at the market were gorgeous and the people watching was a lot of fun.

Jeff and Shanna in the city

Space Needle Mt. Rainer from the first class window

Summer Fun

2009-08-08T23:15:00.000-07:00

Melissa Burk (aka Beekers) and her boyfriend David invited us to go boating at Camp Far West Lake a few weeks ago. It was beautiful, we got there just as the sun was setting. A little chilly, but we still got in the water and went swimming.

We had quite the adventure. It all started when a police officer was going really slow behind us. We pulled over thinking we were going to get a speeding ticket and then the cop went around us. A couple feet ahead we ran into this:

Moral of the picture?
DON'T DRINK AND DRIVE

Once we got to the lake, Melissa and I were chillin' in the truck while the guys did all the hard work (ya know, getting the boat unhooked and putting fuel in it, stuff they actually enjoy) and then... we had a killer mud wasp attack! The wasp almost ate Melissa alive so I did what I had to do to save us and I threw the beach towel out the window (the wasp was on the towel). The boys didn't think it was as life threatening as we did, but then again they didn't see the wasp. It was a close call but we lived to tell about it... thankfully.

Then we went on the lake with David's speed boat and had lots of fun going so fast that we all had tears in our eyes. Beekers actually went so fast that David fell off the boat and this was her reaction...
and here is David waiting to be picked up...
and it turns out David just jumped off the boat to get a reaction from Melissa, silly boy!

We went swimming in the lake and almost got sucked up by an octopus, and then found out it was just seaweed. Almost another life threatening moment (but again the boys didn't seem to think so)!

Doobs+Beekers

Jeff loved being on the water and was very excited when he got to drive the boat.

Melissa and David

We had a great time! Can we do it again...maybe with a tube that has all the plugs!? Love ya Beekers!

Insulin Pump Update

2009-08-07T18:37:00.000-07:00

I have been approved for the insulin pump and it is in the mail-it should be here by Tuesday!! After that I have to go to training to learn how to use it. I am so excited that I have accomplished a long time goal of mine... I'll update more as I learn how to use it.

Flowers...

2009-07-15T18:25:00.000-07:00

Flowers at work really brighten a girls day...especially when they are hand delivered from her husband for no specific reason other than to say "I love you."

4th of July

2009-07-11T01:40:00.000-07:00

We have a 4th of July tradition, we go to Rancho Cordova's free concert and fireworks at Haggin Park. It was a lot of fun and just like last year, my cousin Miranda, was in the Guitar Hero competition. She got second place in the finals, which she was happy about because she couldn't use the first place prize anyway.Way to go Miranda!

Miranda on the right in the Guitar Hero competition.

Yes, that is really how lame I am, we have matching Old Navy shirts.

Waiting for the concert to start.

As tradition, we rode on the "Gravitron" but this year it was called "Starship 2000." As you can see, I was not a fan and this year may be the end of that tradition.

The afternoon and evening were a lot of fun and the fireworks were fantastic. I'm grateful to live in a free country where I can worship how, where and what I want. It is truly the land of the free because of the brave. Thanks to all those who serve our country and make a difference in our world. Hope you had a fun 4th too!

Class of 2009

2009-07-11T01:24:00.000-07:00

A week after we went to Jen's promotion we went to Steph's high school graduation. Steph is such a crazy girl with a lot of spunk and attitude! She has so many talents and skills. Right now she is signed up to start at American River College in the fall where she can explore her options and get a feel for what she wants to do when she "grows up." We love you Steph!

8th Grade PROMOTION

2009-07-11T01:07:00.001-07:00

Jeff and I went to Jen's 8th grade promotion last month. This is the big "good bye middle school hello high school" ceremony. For the most part it was great to be there and support Jen and realize she isn't a little girl anymore. We are ten years apart and sometimes I have a problem with remembering that she has to grow up, or maybe I just don't want her to grow up. The real entertaining part was seeing all the other parents with their balloons and flowers and gifts and tears. Some parents were pretty ridiculous- come on its 8th grade, it's not like the kids have a real choice in completing middle school. But I guess thats something I won't understand until I have a kid growing up.

Jen's Birthday

2009-07-11T00:52:00.000-07:00

My sister turned 14 on June 8. This means high school is just around the corner and dances have begun. We went to Red Robin for her birthday and then to grandma's house for cake and ice cream. She is such a great sister, even if she does tease me endlessly about my blog! Thanks for laughing at all my corny jokes and still lovin' me! Love ya Jen.

May 30, 2009

2009-07-11T00:19:00.000-07:00

Sacramento Temple

Jeff's youngest brother, Rob, got married on May 30 to Beth Durant. The wedding brought family from out of town and a lot of fun!

Rob and Beth Cardenaz

Brothers

COUSINS...

Brianna and Michael Bell

Jeff and Ryan

Steven and Bradley

Shanna and Hannah Banana

White Water Rafting

2009-06-23T22:46:00.000-07:00

We had a blast with the Davis family on Saturday. They called at 7:00am and invited us last minute to go white water rafting down the American River. It was supposed to be 95 degrees but the temperature ended up being only 85 and windy...but we still had a lot of fun. The boat didn't flip and we all lived to tell about it! It was a great family activity and we hope to go again.

Our First Date

2009-06-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

June 19th is the anniversary of our first date. Jeff and I went to the Rivercats game 3 years ago exactly as of Friday the 19th. So when I found out the Rivercats were playing again on the 19th this year I decided to get tickets. So we got to "relive the moment." We had a fun date night for sure... and this time Jeff didn't have to drop me off at the doorstep!

June 19, 2006

June 19, 2009

Finally...

2009-06-11T21:36:00.000-07:00

I didn't know I was going to rattle so many nerves when I put my last post up (HA HA, ok so maybe I had a little bit of an idea)! BUT to answer everyone's question- I am NOT pregnant.

I know I know, you're sad... But my good news is that I am going to get an insulin pump. I am a type 1 diabetic and do insulin shots. I give myself a shot of insulin before every meal and before I go to bed, which comes out to a lot of shots because I love food!

The insulin pump is about the size of a deck of cards and it would be attached to my body through an IV wire and it would deliver the insulin into my body with a click of a button. I would insert the tubing with a needle and then the needle comes out of the tubing but the tubing stays in my body... I would have to change the tubing about every 3 days. So it would come out to ONE shot every 3 days instead of multiple shots every day. So less pokes and better blood sugar control. Sounds great to me.

I have an "assessment" for the pump next week, which means they talk to me and make sure that I am willing and ready to use the insulin pump correctly and that I understand everything about it. These suckers cost about $8000 so the companies that make them don't hand them out like candy!

It's a major accomplishment for me because I have been working on getting the pump for a long time now and I haven't had much success- between being lazy, getting really frustrated with the nurses and feeling too overwhelmed/inadequate about it all has kept me from my goal until now. I knew I needed the pump if I wanted better control and a future family.

Good News

2009-06-08T23:01:00.000-07:00

I got great news from the doctor today...pics and details to come soon...

Wedding Weekend

2009-05-31T00:50:00.000-07:00

This weekend Jeff's brother got married. Rob and Beth had a beautiful temple sealing and the weather was wonderful. They asked Jeff to make the wedding cake since he took a cake decorating class in high school. Jeff has actually made all of his brother's wedding cakes. He is relieved that all his brothers are now married and there are no more cakes to be made! They take a lot of work, but he always does a great job. I am so proud of him and his talent for baking and decorating cakes.

Memorial Day Weekend

2009-05-26T04:54:00.000-07:00

This weekend we went to the Jarman family cabin in Arnold, CA with Jeff's parents. It was wonderful weather. We pretty much relaxed at the private lake and played games. We enjoyed getting away from cell phone reception and the internet for a couple days and taking in the beauty all around us.

Miss California

2009-04-20T22:31:00.000-07:00

Last night during the Miss USA contest, one of the contest judges, Perez Hilton, asked Miss California Carrie Prejean that since Vermont has now legalized gay marriage shouldn’t every state follow suit? Ms. Prejean had the courage to express her views and said, “Well, I think it’s great that Americans are able to choose one or the other. We live in a land where you can choose same-sex marriage or opposite marriage. And you know what, in my country, in my family, I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman. No offense to anybody out there, but that’s how I was raised and that’s how I think it should be between a man and a woman. Thank you very much.”

Ms. Prejean’s comments were cheered by the crowd, but a smattering of jeers could be heard in the background by a few who were incensed at her answer. According to FoxNEWS.com, arguments broke out in the lobby of the theater, with one man shouting, "I think it's ridiculous that she got first runner-up. That is not the value of 95 percent of the people in this audience. Look around this audience and tell me how many gay men there are." Is there an unwritten rule that Miss USA contestants must hold values in agreement with homosexual activists?

For his own part, Hilton immediately cut a video blog where he ripped Ms. Prejean, referring to her in language so vile that it can’t even be hinted at by its first letter.

Ms. Prejean was named runner-up in the contest and today there was considerable discussion in the blogosphere about whether her answer might have cost her the title. Prejean told FoxNEWS.com that she had “no regrets” and was happy with the answer she gave.

We’re very proud of Ms. Prejean for speaking her mind in support of traditional marriage. She represented the silent majority in America and expressed a point of view that over 7 million California voters also expressed just last November. In fact, in the history of this issue every single state that has voted on it has voted to affirm traditional marriage.

The outcry from some activists in the gay community over Ms. Prejean’s comments are indicative of how far they will go to force their same-sex marriage agenda on society. Miss California is vilified by Perez Hilton in a video blog for respectfully answering his question, and gay men are shouting against her in the theater lobby. Yet we are supposed to take homosexual leaders at face value that if same-sex marriage were legalized they would never force this teaching onto children in the schools.

Thank you, Miss California, for knowing the truth about marriage and standing up for it, even when you knew that your honest answer may hinder your chances for the crown of Miss USA.

Sincerely,

Ron Prentice
Chairman
ProtectMarriage.com – Yes on 8

"Marriage brings greater possibilities for happiness than does any other human relationship."-Russell M. Nelson

2009-04-02T22:05:00.000-07:00

While we were in Utah we celebrated our two year wedding anniversary. It is hard to believe how quickly time goes by. Two years may not seem like a lot- but for those who know me, know that I rarely go two days without returning something to the store! I have commitment issues... but when it came to making an eternal commitment to Jeff there was no problem. I'm grateful we are together and for the strength he gives me to be a better person. He is my best friend no doubt. There's not a day that goes by that he doesn't make me laugh. He has a deep concern for me and my health. He has a gift for service and he is the most compassionate person I know. He's taught me more about myself than I ever thought I could learn. I love him so much and I get to spend eternity with him. Wooo hooo!!

For our anniversary, we got a framed picture of the Sacramento Temple. It is a great reminder of the eternal covenants we made with each other on March 30, 2007 in that holy place.

Utah for Spring Break

2009-04-02T21:37:00.000-07:00

We drove to Utah to spend time with Jeff's brother and family for our Spring break. They had a baby boy in February, Chase Sifuentes Cardenaz. We got to be there for Chase's baby blessing, went to breakfast at Ikea, lunch at Apollo burger, dinner at Applebee's, movies at the "MEGAPLEX", scored some good deals at D.I., went to the Jordan River temple, hung out with the Jarman clan, went to a fun park in West Jordan and watched our little nephews entertain us endlessly. Good times. Thanks Phill and Jeannine!

2009-03-22T13:50:00.000-07:00

Love you Mom!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-15T23:21:00.001-08:00

Valentine's Day was great! Jeff picked up a heart shaped pizza and gave me chocolates and a card, I made him white chocolate dipped strawberries and pretzels, and we stayed up until 4am watching movies (Sleepless in Seattle and Get Smart) and episodes of The Office. So fun.

Choices

2009-02-11T22:23:00.000-08:00

"We stand at the crossroads, each minute, each hour, each day, making choices. We choose the thoughts we allow ourselves to think, the passions we allow ourselves to feel, and the actions we allow ourselves to perform. Each choice is made in the context of whatever value system we've selected to govern our lives. In selecting that value system, we are, in a very real way, making the most important choice we will ever make. Those who believe there is one God who made all things and who governs the world by His providence will make many choices different from those who do not. Those who hold in reverence that being who gave them life and worship him through adoration, prayer, and thanksgiving will make many choices different from those who do not. Those who believe that mankind are all of a family and that the most acceptable service of God is doing good to man will make many choices different from those who do not. Those who believe in a future state in which all that is wrong here will be made right will make many choices different from those who do not. Those who subscribe to the moral of Jesus will make many choices different from those who do not. Since the foundation of all happiness is thinking rightly, and since correct action is dependent on correct opinion, we cannot be too careful in choosing the value system we allow to govern our thoughts and actions. And to know that God governs in the affairs of men, that he hears and answers prayers, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him, is indeed, a powerful regulator of human conduct."

-Benjamin Franklin

2009-01-25T21:42:00.000-08:00

One of our favorite things to do on Saturday morning is to go to Denio's farmers market. We have fun trying to find the best deals and the best looking fruit. We end up getting a lot of yummy fruits and vegetables. I made Zucchini bread today (with the zucchinis we got) and used the onions and garlic with dinner tonight.

*Lucille's BBQ***

2008-12-29T21:04:00.001-08:00

We got a giftcard to Lucille's BBQ Smokehouse in Rocklin and we went to eat there tonight. WE LOVED IT! The food was wonderful and the service was superb! We will be going back...

They bring you warm towels to wipe your hands at the end of your meal- oh so refreshing! :)

They serve your drinks in a glass jam jar.

And they have very good fruit cobbler... and some delicious ribs and pulled pork.

Christmas 2008

2008-12-27T12:06:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful last few days. Jeff surprised me with a thoughtful gift he picked out on his own. He got a new golf bag and I got the clock I REALLY wanted from my brother-in-law who pulled my name for Christmas (thanks Rob!!)My parents spoiled us with Wii stuff- we got Rockband and Wii Fit. We have been playing Rockband a lot and I love playing the bass and singing (as long as no one is really listening to me!).

We had fun watching our little nephew Isaiah open gifts and he was so excited. We were glad we got to see him and Phill and Jeannine from Utah. We ate so much good food made by both our parents and enjoyed the company of our families.

The day after Christmas I braved the crowds at the mall and went shopping with my two sister-in-laws and my mother-in-law. It was a madhouse. Jeff went out with his brothers and played 18 holes of golf. He loves golf and he was excited to use his new bag. That night we went and saw "Seven Pounds" with Will Smith. It was an interesting movie that really made you think. Jeff and I liked it.

On Sunday we were able to take time to sit back and realize how many blessings we have and think about our goals for 2009. We can always improve and become more like our Savior (and we are making it a goal to do that!). Happy New Year!! Have a fun 2009.

D&C 50:5

2008-12-19T23:41:00.000-08:00

"But blessed are they who are faithful and endure, whether in life or in death, for they shall inherit eternal life."

We have been truly blessed as we continue to put our faith and hope in the Lord. In the last week we have received two checks in the mail from Sac State and American River for refunds on tuition. We have had no idea we were getting these and we really don't know why we got refunded- I even tried calling the school and all they could tell me was that we overpaid. The Lord works in mysterious ways and I am so grateful that we are being watched over and blessed in so many different ways.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2008-12-11T23:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cards...

2008-12-05T05:39:00.000-08:00

Can you believe Christmas is so close? I am sending out Christmas cards soon and wanted to make sure I have updated addresses. So if you want a card, leave your address as the comment and I will delete it as soon as I save it! Thanks. Merry Christmas!

Isreal

2008-11-30T00:04:00.000-08:00

Jeff recently got a new toy- a six color silk screen press. Him and his brother have a t-shirt printing business called "Isreal." Jeff hasn't had much time to make shirts lately, but he was able to make some shirts tonight. Making silk screens and putting them on clothing has been one of Jeff's favorite hobbies. He starts off with a design on paper and then puts the image on to a transparency and then burns the image on to a screen and then puts the screen on the t-shirt and voila! Ok, so there are a lot more steps to it... but that's the basics. He has been having a lot of fun and if anyone wants something put on a t-shirt let him know, he would love to do it.

Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T23:35:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving I made my first turkey. It went so well and tasted very yummy (according to Jeff and a few brave taste testers- aka my family and Jeff's parents!). I brined the turkey in apple cider and it came out moist. I also made some pretty "sweet" sweet potatoes and my mom's famous "funeral potatoes." I found a recipe for a pumpkin dessert that had lots of butter, a cake mix and tons of sugar- what could be better than that? But despite all the delicious food, Thanksgiving is really about giving thanks. We have so much to be thankful for, the list could go on for days but here are just a few of the most important...

Our Savior, the gospel, temples, dedicated family, fun friends, the home where we live, education, good jobs, medicine, medical research and health insurance.

Reflections of Christ

2008-11-26T20:12:00.000-08:00

Jeff and I went to the Stake Center next to the Sacramento Temple tonight to see an art exhibit entitled "Reflections of Christ." The video speaks for itself- it was such a humbling experience. I know that my Redeemer lives.

Birthday Update

2008-11-10T23:01:00.000-08:00

Jeff and I and my parents all went to Oakland on Friday night and spent the night and then went to the temple in the morning. The temple was beautiful but it was cold and rainy so we didn't take the time to take many pics but we had a great time.

On Saturday we went to Jeff's parents house and his mom gave me my birthday present- a trip to New York!! We are leaving Dec. 5 and staying for a couple days! I couldn't believe it when she told me. I have always wanted to go to New York and especially in December with all the Christmas lights and the shopping- wow! It will be fun and pics will definitley be coming after the trip.

Thanks to all of you who left me special birthday messages or called me- it made me feel so special!

**UPDATE: Trip postponed until March 2009 due to crazy schedules and holidays!

Shanna's 23rd Birthday

2008-11-06T18:15:00.001-08:00

I had a fun day today. I got a huge bag of cookies on my desk when I got to work, I got to leave work a little early, I got to spend time with Jeff and my family, I got an adorable Coach purse and a really cute kitchen board to write on that says "Home is where I laugh the most and love the best", and my parents are taking us to Oakland tomorrow night and we are spending the night and going to the Oakland temple on Saturday since I have never been. I am sure "well loved" (aka SPOILED)! It was so nice to be able to spend my special day with my favorite people.

2008-11-04T04:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Election day! Get out there and get your vote on! YES ON 8!!

JFK on Mormons

2008-11-02T12:17:00.000-08:00

I love to hear political leaders speak of the great faith and accomplishments of the Mormons. Here is a speech given in the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City, Utah on September 26 1963
You can find it at archive.org search JFK on Mormons

Favorite Fall Food

2008-11-02T10:38:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite recipes to make in the fall when it is blustery and wet outside. It is so easy to make in the Crockpot. Enjoy!

White Chili Recipe from Dawn Teerlink

4 cans Great Northern Beans
3 cups Chicken Broth
1 Cube of Chicken Boullion
1 tbsp. Garlic Powder
2 Medium Chopped Onions
2 cans Green Chilies-4 oz. size (I usually only put 1 can in)
1 tbsp. Oregano
2 tbsp. Cummin
1/2 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
4 cups Cooked Shredded Chicken
1 Large Carton of Sour Cream
2 cans White Corn

Chop onions and saute in butter on stove. Add all spices to onions. Put in Crockpot and add remaining ingredients. Cook on High for 3-4 hours or low 8-10 hours.

Quote of the Day:

2008-10-27T21:34:00.000-07:00

I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The dye has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made; I am a disciple of Jesus Christ. I won't look back, let up, slow down, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure. I'm finished and done with low living, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tainted visions, worldly talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. I no longer need pre-eminence, positions, promotions, plaudits, or popularity. I don't have to be right, first recognized, praised, regarded, or rewarded. I now live by faith, lean on His presence, walk with patience, am uplifted by prayer, and labor with power. My face is set, my gait is fast, and my goal is Heaven. My road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions are few, my guide is reliable, my mission is clear. I cannot be bought, compromised, detoured, lured away, divided or delayed. I will not flinch in the face of sacrifice, hesitate in the presence of adversary, negotiate at the table of the enemy, ponder at the pool of popularity, or meander in the maze of mediocrity. I won't give up, shut up, or let up, until I have stayed up, stored up, and paid up for the cause of Christ. I must go till He comes, give till I drop, preach till all know, and work till He stops me. And when He returns for His own, He will have no problem recognizing me. My banner will be clear. -Henry B. Eyring

Christmas Pictures

2008-10-24T18:06:00.000-07:00

The other day we had a blast taking our Christmas pictures with Janea Greene. She is such a talented photographer and also a great friend. If anyone is looking for a photographer I highly recommend her... you can check out her blog here. We went to Old Sacramento and just went wild and crazy. Jeff sure made us laugh being his goofy self. Janea- you're awesome and very talented, thanks for everything.

Apple Time

2008-10-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

The other day we ordered 160 pounds of apples from an orchard in Auburn (thanks Melanie). Jeff and his mom turned almost all of those apples into delicious apple pies with soft flaky golden crusts. They spent all day yesterday making 20 pies and still have more to make. The warm apple pie smell reminded me of the holidays and it made me excited for Thanksgiving and Christmas to be so close. What a great Saturday!

2008-10-16T22:37:00.000-07:00

Most of you may not know this, because I don't openly admit it, but here I go... I am Celine Dion's #1 fan. Call me a cheeseball but I went to Vegas twice to see her at Caesar's Palace last year. And on Tuesday I went and saw her at Arco Arena with three very important people- my mom, my Grandma Carol and my Grandma Ranae. We had a lot of fun and the opening act was hilarious (Gordie Brown). Hopefully you can enjoy the pics even though you may not enjoy Celine!

2008-10-16T21:27:00.000-07:00

Jeff and I took a roadtrip to Utah for the first weekend of October to attend General Conference for our church. We had such a fun time. I love visiting Utah (but let's not talk about living there). I love going to Temple Square and I absolutely love all the craft stores they have and it is so much easier to find appropriate clothes that are cute.

Jeff had a mission reunion on Friday night so we left at 9:30am California time on Friday and Jeff wanted to get to his reunion by 7pm. We ended up rolling into Salt Lake at 6:30pm and we made it to the reunion by 7:45. Woo hoo how is that for good timing, and no speeding tickets either.

Some of the highlights of the trip were:

Eating at "The Roof"- it is a restaraunt on the top floor of the Joseph Smith building and it has windows surrounding it that overlook Salt Lake and the gorgeous temple and not to mention a fab buffet
Watching General Conference at the Conference Center while being in the same room with President Monson and the apostles (ok so it's kind of a BIG room...)
Going to Park City and shopping at the outlets
Going to the Salt Lake Temple and being sealed for my great great grandparents
Getting to stay and spend time with Phill, Jeannine and Isaiah (thanks guys, we already miss ya!)
Seeing Jeff's mission friends and President and Sister Ririe
Going to Uncle Jim and Aunt Michelle's house for a delicious meal and yummy dessert and spending time with the silliest cousins EVER!

2008-10-14T20:57:00.000-07:00

Bon Appetit

2008-10-03T00:49:00.000-07:00

Chicken in skillet

Sauce for chicken

Finished Product

Last night I made some very yummy Mandarin Chicken using Tari McDonald's recipe. Thanks Tari for posting it! It was very easy to make and it uses a lot of household ingredients so you don't have to make an emergency trip to the grocery store to get something you don't have in the middle of cooking (which I find myself doing way too often). Let me know if anyone wants the recipe and I will give you the link.

Forever Strong

2008-09-29T23:43:00.000-07:00

"Making right choices doesn't mean life will be easy, but easier."

Tonight for Family Home Evening we went to the movies and watched Forever Strong. It was a great movie with a good message (a true story too). It has to do with a Highlands, UT rugby team that is really close and stands for strong values. Check it out...

Cardenaz Cruisin'

2008-09-17T20:33:00.001-07:00

We just got back from our Carnival Cruise and Disneyland Adventure! We had so much fun with Jeff's family. We got to spend time with Michael,Stephanie, Rick, Nicole, Phill, Jeannine, Isaiah, Rob, Beth, Larry, Shirleen, Janie, Woody, Terri, Uncle Jeff, Ryan, Aaron, Laurie, and Uncle Mike. Family flew to Long Beach from Texas, New Mexico, Redding, and Sacramento to have a fun filled week in Mexico. The food was way too good and the weather was perfect. I had every virgin drink that was available and ate more sushi than should be allowed. Jeff got his "hip hop" on during Karaoke and I got my groove on at "Club Rex." We loved "Soarin' over California" and we sure screamed loud on "California Screamin." It was a vacation to remember and we can't wait to go again!

Wedding Video

2008-09-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

I was just having fun with pictures...

Clint's Birthday

2008-08-30T23:50:00.000-07:00

August 30, 2008

Sorry it has been so long since our last posting. Summer is coming to a close and the Fall semester of classes has begun. This last weekend our friend, Clint, came home for a visit from fighting overseas and we went to his BBQ/Birthday party. Jeff made this delicious lemon twist bread for the party. Yummmyyy... I am sure lucky that Jeff can bake, since I can't! At least I am working on the cooking thing right?!

This is Clint and his adorable dog, Frodo. This dog was the coolest little guy. I wish I got a picture of his face because he looks like baby Simba from Lion King!
We were so happy to see Clint (and Shahera) and we hope he gets to come home for good soon!

Twue Wuvv

2008-07-30T23:52:00.000-07:00

It has been a year and four months since we were married in the Sacramento Temple. I'm not going to lie- marriage is hard. It requires a huge amount of respect and personal concern for another, it requires selflessness and unconditional love. Marriage is dirty dishes, stinky towels, broken appliances, dusty shelves, unpaid bills and primary lessons. Homework must be done and dinner must be made BUT... to be able to clean the dishes, wash the towels, fix the fridge, dust the shelves, pay the bills and finish the primary lessons in between homework and dinner ALL with Jeff as my eternal companion is worth more than I can put into words. Jeff and I are best friends. I know that he gets irritable when he is sleepy and grumpy when he's had a long day. He leaves cupboards open and the toilet seat up, but I LOVE HIM! He gives me bear hugs at 3am, he watches sappy chick flicks with me (because he loves me not because he wants to!), he makes me waffles on Saturday mornings and leaves the light off in the mornings so he doesn't wake me, he takes me to the temple and reads scriptures with me, he works hard for me and doesn't complain. He makes me a better person, far better than I ever imagined I could be. Marriage is about growing and learning together everyday. I've learned a lot about priorities. It's not about looking good or being the cutest couple, it's not about having the house spotless and the clothes all washed every day. But it is about letting the Savior into our marriage and keeping our covenants with each other. I'm rich in love and life. How blessed I am forever!
P.S.- I love Jeff

Wiikend Fun

2008-07-15T19:50:00.000-07:00

This weekend we played with the Wii fit and I didn't know it at first, but Jeff was videotaping us. So as embarrassing as it is, it is darn hilarious as well. So for your viewing pleasure I posted the videos. Below is Steph playing the ski slopes game trying to weave in and out of flags while skiing down a hill. Listen to the sounds in the background and try and figure out how well she did... I was never good at hula hoops... and I am still not. Even on the Wii, I seem to make a dork of myself! But in the video I am trying the best I can so don't laugh too hard.

4th of July

2008-07-08T03:34:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th of July, it was a long day but it was sure fun! It began at 7am when we went to the temple and did baptisms for the dead. Jeff was able to be baptized for my grandpa Bart- my dad's dad. He passed away suddenly 5 years ago and it was great to finally do his work. These last couple weeks I have been feeling a strong impression to get his work done. His birthday is on July 5, so it was the perfect birthday present for him. My dad was able to stand in proxy for my grandpa's endowment later that day. What a wonderful day for my family. Families can be together forever.

From the temple we went to Haggin Park where they had a huge carnival with free concerts and bike shows. We went with Jeff's parents and we met my cousins and uncle there too. The kids had a lot of fun.

And then... we entered another dimension when we boarded the GRAVITRON! It is a roller coaster that makes you feel like there is no gravity. It was crazy and it made me want to throw up at first but after spinning so many times I got used to it! If you ever have a chance to go on the Gravitron, don't pass up the opportunity!! :)

The best part of the carnival was when my cousin Miranda kicked some trash and placed 1st in the semifinals for a Guitar Hero competition. And then she won second place for the whole competition. Thats right boys, move over we've got a new champ.

We checked out a free concert with "Hip Service." I have never heard of them before but they sang some classics like Love Shack and then mixed it up with Beyonce and Jay Z. I was excited since I don't get to shake my booty that often since YSA dances are out of the picture (I have been having withdrawals from dances ever since I got married!). It was nice to dance and attempt to sing my heart out- I don't think those around me appreciated it though...They also had a spectacular fireworks show that last 25 minutes with a grand finale! We are so grateful for the freedoms we have and the land of opportunity we live in. We are so blessed in so many ways.

Jeff's Accident

2008-07-03T20:05:00.000-07:00

How ghetto does that look? That white piece is actually styrofoam!

Crunch!

Jeff called me this morning to tell me he had been rear ended on the freeway going 60MPH. No worries- there were no injuries involved, thank goodness! He watched our bumper fly off as the woman hit him. Even though everyone is doing okay, our car's back end isn't looking too great! We are just really lucky everything is covered by insurance and no one got hurt. This is the second accident in less than a year- someone also hit our car while it was parked! So let the adventure begin with trying to fix our car...

Garden Update...

2008-07-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

Green Tomatoes!!

Tomato Plants

Our Zucchini Plants

Our garden is doing really well, we have lots of tomatoes popping up and our potatoes are even growing nicely! We can't wait to stop watching the veggies grow and actually eat something.

Elder Ballard Promotes Blogging to share the Gospel

2008-07-01T21:23:00.000-07:00

"This is your world, the world of the future, with inventions undreamed of that will come in your lifetime as they have in mine. How will you use these marvelous inventions? More to the point, how will you use them to further the work of the Lord? The Internet allows everyone to be a publisher, to have their voice heard, and it is revolutionizing society. The emergence of New Media is facilitating a world-wide conversation on almost every subject including religion, and nearly everyone can participate. May I ask that you join the conversation by participating on the Internet, particularly the New Media, to share the gospel and to explain in simple, clear terms the message of the Restoration. Most of you already know that if you have access to the Internet you can start a blog in minutes and begin sharing what you know to be true." -Elder M. Russell Ballard

Jeff and Shanna

Jen's History

Boston 7.9.11

Happy 2012

Graduation

Disneyland

Birthday Fun

Happy Sunday!

Our Baby Story

Today...

Tiny Footprints

Boston Lee Cardenaz

Moments that Matter Most

SECTIONALS!

His Sacred Name - An Easter Declaration

Aloha!

Happy 2011!

This made me smile

New York

Christmas Cards

The Well

Apple Hill

We become what we want to be by consistently being what we want to become each day.

Cabin Trip

Snowboard Bench

Dillon's Beach

Utah

Here is what we have been up to during April and May...

Happy 3rd Anniversary...

Things I'm Grateful for this week...and always

The Best is Yet to Be

Christ: The Real Gift of Christmas

Sneak Peek...

Up Close and Personal

Missing the hubby...

Conference Buns

Bye Bye Summer

Oregon

Summer Grillin'

Summer fun in Seattle

Summer Fun

Insulin Pump Update

Flowers...

4th of July

Class of 2009

8th Grade PROMOTION

Jen's Birthday

May 30, 2009

White Water Rafting

Our First Date

Finally...

Good News

Wedding Weekend

Memorial Day Weekend

Miss California

"Marriage brings greater possibilities for happiness than does any other human relationship."-Russell M. Nelson

Utah for Spring Break

Valentine's Day

Choices

***************Lucille's BBQ*****************

Christmas 2008

D&C 50:5

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Christmas Cards...

Isreal

Thanksgiving

Reflections of Christ

Birthday Update

Shanna's 23rd Birthday

JFK on Mormons

Favorite Fall Food

Quote of the Day:

Christmas Pictures

Apple Time

Bon Appetit

Forever Strong

Cardenaz Cruisin'

Wedding Video

Clint's Birthday

Twue Wuvv

*Lucille's BBQ***