tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18391382972480275952024-03-13T02:11:50.040-07:00Our Life In This BlogShane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-80206337357701682182013-08-11T13:01:00.000-07:002013-08-11T13:01:42.336-07:00Life, Babies & Nutrition<div class="MsoNormal">
Holly Smokes! It has
been a year since we have updated this blog. A text from my Mom this past week reminded me
that this blog was still here.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Most everyone we hold dear follows us on Facebook so I haven’t
felt the urge to write anything out. We
live very transparent lives. I
understand some feel we are crazy for living our lives this way but it works great
for us. We tend to ignore any of the
whispers. We have enjoyed keeping our loved ones connected to us, even if
sometimes we don’t feel connected to them.
I suppose this blog might be a great avenue to tap into, we’ll see how
that goes this coming year. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This past week an individual we have come to love as family
passed away. Our hearts have been aching
for the family he has left behind. Death
can often times become a reminder of just how short life really is. At the funeral my best friend, his daughter,
read from a journal of memories. It touched my heart that he left these
memories for his family. I started to
think of how different the world is now from the generations before us. Technology has not only shifted the ways
we can connect but also what we can leave for our kids to know us by. I often thought how cool it would be to have
known my ancestors better and thankful for the few pieces I do have of them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Shane is still working for Hoovestol. This company is contracted with the post
office and Shane works Wednesday through Mondays from 3:30 am to about 2:30 pm.
It is a job we do not take for granted since he is home every night and many
times pulls a better income than other truck drivers who have to stay on the
road for months at a time. He is also
working anywhere between 20 to 30 hours for HTC Trucking. This is a company he owns with his parents
and sister. They are currently running 4
trucks out of Cedar and employ 4 full time people, including his Dad. Most of any profit is being left in the
company, including any salary for him, so there isn't much of an income from it
at this point. HOWEVER, Shane is getting
good use of his bachelor’s degree in business.
He runs all of the books, manages employees and helps his Mom with finding and negotiating
loads. He also takes care of various miscellaneous
things which most people don’t think of when having to run a business. We see
this as an investment in our future, not only for us but for our children. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Shane and I treasure the time we do have together since we
tend to work overlapping shifts and rarely have the same days off. I am also on the lookout for some part time
work I can do from home. I am currently working
about 30 hours per week at TurningLeaf and still love every minute of it. Everyone knows it’s my passion in life, so I
won’t go on and on. However, I would
like to start doing some things from home to help prepare for growing a
family. It is no secret we have been trying to start a family. I would like to be home part time when that
day arrives, which is why I have slowly been shifting my hours in St
George. We have no idea how it will all
work but trusting God does. It is also Shane’s
hope that someday he can shift into running HTC full time and we can then set
our own hours. It’s very important to both of us that we have
the ability to travel as much as possible, especially to Idaho and Wisconsin where
a large portion of our family resides.
We have come to believe that we create our future by the steps we are
taking now. </div>
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Our fitness and healthy living attempts continue. We are by no means perfect at it but learning
it’s not about being perfect. We tend to
make at least 3-4 dinners per week that I would consider healthy. The rest either consist of left overs or unhealthy
dishes. Breakfast and Lunch more often than not are on the Healthy side. For me personally, the food
aspect of living healthy has been a huge challenge. I LOVE treats and pretty much anything with
sugar finds its way to my mouth. I feel
like I have finally gotten the fitness piece down. I work out in some form almost every day and
have been working with a personal trainer 3 times per week. The bottom line, however, is that you can
work out all you want but without shifting the diet, it’s almost impossible to
move forward. I have played with the idea
of going back to school to become a registered dietitian. WHOA!! I KNOW!! Where
did that come from? Well, it comes from
my obsession of improving not only my own quality of life but others too. This
one area of my life, nutrition, keeps kicking my butt!! Working in the Mental Health field has taught
me that most people who enter the field have done so because they are in need of
help themselves or have had a loved one who suffered with Mental Health. For me, I need help with nutrition and it is
always something that completely fascinates me. Do I always live what I
learn?!? NOPE! BUT, everyone that hangs out with me on Facebook knows I am
always posting something about fitness, nutrition or helping others. Why not combine them all?<o:p></o:p></div>
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I could write an entire post about our trip to Alaska so I am going to save that for later. Hope I do it soon though before I forget some of it. I have a few friends who keep a travel blog for this reason. Sure wish I had done that. For now, I will just leave a few of my favorite pics of Shane and I from that trip.</div>
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Well, I suppose that is enough for now. Sure hope I post more than I did in the last
12 months. Much love to everyone!<o:p></o:p></div>
Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-48095968594810435772012-08-08T23:43:00.001-07:002012-08-08T23:45:24.398-07:00Past 8 Months... Saving it all UP!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Ok, to keep in alignment with my previous posts, it’s probably time for an update.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">I am trying to remember all the events that have gone on this year, so far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most good but a few sad.. Please forgive me if I forget something important.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">FIRST AND MOST IMPORTANT!!!!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our dear friend ZAC and his buddies returned home from Iraq just in time for Christmas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were so excited and happy, not only for him but for his wife Brylee and the entire Nixon family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We really missed him and it was a tear filled reunion as Shane and I waited with family and friends at the airport here in Cedar City.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been so awesome to have him back home safe and sound!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shane’s family had another lose in early February with his Mom’s Sister passing of cancer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It really has been a hard few years for the family. I was thankful I was able to meet her several times over the last few years and she is missed by the entire family!!! <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">My Dad and Step Mom came for a visit in late February.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was so awesome!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was here for his birthday and we just loved every minute of it. Shane took time off for his visit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We went to the parade of homes in St George, snowmobiling and a trip out to The Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to find a Dog to rescue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was so wonderful for both of them to be here as we found our dog Copper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have to say it’s one of the best visits I have ever had with my Dad and Sue and I can’t wait for them to come back soon!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">We went back a few days after their visit and picked up our newest family member, Copper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was torn about getting a Dog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I was worried we would not have enough time to take care of him and that our schedules would leave him home alone too much.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT, something else shifted this year for us… Shane’s work Schedule.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you read the last post I put up, you can be reminded how much I was</span> <span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">struggling with it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shane has since been shifted to a set schedule that runs Thursday morning to Monday afternoons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He has off on Tuesday’s and Wednesdays.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No more shifting back and forth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He is home every night and I couldn’t be happier about it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only drawback has been that Shane has to get up at 3am on the days he works but it is still better than before and he no longer has overnight runs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I tend to work from home on Tuesday’s which has been so nice! (I work for a pretty awesome company!).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I also tend to work a lot on Saturdays so it makes up for any time off I take with Shane during the week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s been a blessing and we are not complaining.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">In April we took a trip back to Wisconsin for my Niece Addie’s 1<sup>st</sup> birthday party and also to meet my Sister’s newest addition Jason Jr. along with my good friend Laura’s new baby boy Jude.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were so happy to get back to see as many as we could.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is never enough time on those trips and although I LOVE them, I always feel a little sad that I can’t get everyone in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wish more than anything I could invent a teleport!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="font-size: large;">J</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shane and I are plugging away at giving our back yard a much
needed facelift.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most follow us on Facebook
and have seen my constant pictures. (Yes, I know between Copper and our Yard, I
post a little too often.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT don’t judge
too hard, our biggest Facebook fans are my parents who wish we lived
closer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I like to give them a taste of
our everyday life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So until my Dad
starts texting and upgrades his phone to get pictures… Facebook will have to
do! LOL) <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Our friends Aaron and Jessi have come to stay with us a few
times now this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The second visit
came in June and Aaron so kindly helped Shane install a sprinkler system into
our dirt pile.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>By then, we already had
our patio poured and our block wall was in the process of being put up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since then, we have brought in 4 loads of
dirt and have maybe 2 more to go?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
will all depend on if we decide to get the garden area filled this year or
next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are hoping to lay the Grass no
later than September.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The yard projects
we have decided to put on hold are the decorative concrete path leading to the
fire pit and the fire pit area itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
am getting A LOT of ideas on Pinterest so it should be fun to see what we
actually go with in the end. We purchased some patio furniture and have been
enjoying it A LOT!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love coming home and
sitting on the back porch and enjoying our mountain view.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">In May I made my first attempt at the Insanity program sold
by Beachbody.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made it 30 days and I am
pretty proud of myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have found
since I started that program I have been more active and have really started to
enjoy working out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I plan to go back to
the Insanity program and finish out the remaining 30 days this winter sometime.
Like most things I jumped in head first without realizing how difficult the 2<sup>nd</sup>
half of the program would be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have
also purchased p90x which I have been excited to get back into as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless of what program I am doing at any
given time, it has been fun to stay active.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Most recently I have been training for a ½ marathon in November.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some coworkers got me motivated and it has
grown into a group of more than 20 people who have committed to either running
or walking the Snow Canyon 5K or Half Marathon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We are hoping in the process to raise a few dollars for the TurningLeaf
Foundation. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you are feeling so inclined
to help us get a jump start on the fundraising, please follow the link and donate
a few dollars for the cause.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I would get on my knees and beg but I am
trying to keep them healthy for the run. LOL.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We won’t hit the fundraising hard for a few more months but would love
to get a start on it now.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is the link, <a href="http://www.youcaring.com/fundraiser_details?fundraiser_id=4582&url=run2raise#.UArtkrR74LM.facebook" target="_blank">just click on this… share the love!</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">I am planning to write a blog down the road about how
TurningLeaf has changed my life and why I am such a big supporter of it,
especially now that it has a Foundation side to help those who have financial issues.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will keep that post for another time, since
this is already getting long. </span><span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;"><span style="mso-char-type: symbol; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">June marked the one year anniversary of HTC Trucking which
is a trucking company Shane’s parents have started after Shane’s grandfather
past away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has been a dream of Shane’s
to see his parents do this and we have been blessed to be a part of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has meant A LOT of extra hours by both is
parents and Shane but it will be worth every minute, as it will be setting up a
great future for the family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Currently
they have 3 trucks and are looking to add a 4<sup>th</sup> truck this
fall.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eventually Shane is planning to
shift over to HTC full time but it will be a few years down the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For now, it has been fulfilling to be working
on it part time and to see it grow so much in just this 1<sup>st</sup> year.</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">We just returned Tuesday from Shane’s family reunion in
Yellowstone Park… which also happens to be held the same weekend as my family
reunion every year. (I was so sad to have missed it) BUT, this year was extra
special for Shane’s parents because it was their turn to plan all the food and
the location of the reunion. We didn’t feel it was even an option to not go,
since it only happens every 9 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are 9 siblings in his Dad’s family and they all take turns putting
on the “party” each year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We spent a lot
of time cooking but JUST as much time visiting and enjoying everyone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I personally really enjoyed it, and especially
the time we got to spend with Shane’s Sister and Brother in law.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t get to see them nearly as often as
we would like and it was so fun to laugh and share stories!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aaron, Jessi and the Girls also came along
and it seriously feels like they are a part of the family. We are so happy they
came and enjoyed the time everyone had together!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Shane and I took a few days after the reunion to drive
through the park and head down to Jackson Hole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We had lots of fun while we toured the town and stayed at the Ski
Resort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who knew a ski resort could be
so much fun in the “off” season!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
spent our last night relaxing at a beautiful lodge in Bear Lake, UT.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I loved every minute!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">The next adventure is a trip back to Wisconsin this next
week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am running in the Dirty Girl Mud
Run with my Sister-In-Law while also visiting family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been pretty excited for this run
because it will be the first official event of many (I hope).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Seems to me, these types of events keep things
fun for staying in shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Staying active
is a new life goal of mine… I haven’t been perfect at it, but progress for
sure!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: large;">Well, like always this has gotten really long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wish I was better about keeping it updated
but I guess, as Shane has said, we are too busy living life. LOL.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Love you all and hope all is well with all
our family and friends!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-78838924974891521862011-11-15T01:44:00.001-08:002011-11-15T01:51:28.009-08:00It's Me... Just Call Me CRAZY!!!!!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">This is a very long overdue blog post. Blogging reminds me of when I was a kid and I always thought it would be cool to have a journal or keep a diary. I would write in it every day for about a week and then it would be months later before I made an entry. Always starting with “Well, it’s been a long time… “ Or “ Sorry I haven’t written” as if I was writing to a long lost friend. So this is no different I suppose. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, to keep to tradition, much has happened in the last few months. To name a few in no particular order… </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">A Wedding, A Cruise, A Halloween Reception, A Boise State game in Las Vegas, Several TurningLeaf Seminars, my Sister’s baby and a bundle of cousins having babies. …. And now a very much needed visit from my Mom this Thursday. She is staying 10 days. I am pretty excited and hope it will help with my homesickness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I could write all about all these things, especially the wedding but to be honest, it has felt like that’s all I have been talking about for the last year and so I am just going to share some random things. We will be getting our wedding video pretty soon, so watch for that. We plan to post it on here.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Most recently I have been having a hard time sleeping when Shane’s not home. For those that hang out with me on Facebook, this is not new news. I don’t keep much of my life a secret anymore. Find it has been liberating to just let it all out. (Ok, not everything, I wouldn’t want my entire Facebook friend list to hide me on their wall) BUT the sleep issue was really starting to become just that, an ISSUE! Shane is working a new schedule. He works 4 days on, 2 days off, 4 days on. That in itself isn’t bad but every other stretch of 4 days is an opposite shift. 4pm to 3am, then 4am to 3pm. He also, on his days off, tends to work random hours on the financials or a few runs for HTC Trucking. This new shift started shortly after we got married and we have finally found our rhythm. (I think) Let me tell ya though, I think I went through some sort of “Going Crazy” spurt. It really annoys me that we have to depend on sleep to function. When I WAS sleeping I was having crazy dreams. The kind that were so vivid you wake up wondering if it really just happened. Insomnia stinks. I feel embarrassed that I get it sometimes. It usually means I am letting my brain race and not letting go and resting. It can be a vicious cycle. The less sleep the more Crazy. Shane and I have had several discussions about what are we going to do if and when we have children. I feel bad complaining about my sleep when all the Mothers and Fathers out there selfishly give up sleep to raise babies. BUT it makes me nervous if I can’t even handle my own sleeplessness, let alone another’s life. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Speaking of Babies…. Now that Shane and I are married, we are getting the “Baby Question”. So, to be extremely honest with all of you that want to ask us, it truly has depended on the day. We have decided to revisit the idea in a few years. The baby itch has calmed down some now that I know it will be up for discussion later. Nothing ever needs to be decided in Stone. Unfortunately, It just won’t work right now with both our work schedules and while we are still climbing out of some remaining debt. I know one can’t ALWAYS plan these things but we would like to if we can. God knows we would never be upset by an accident. If that happens it will be Gods will, and what is the good in fighting God’s will? Just saying.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well, I guess this is it for now. Maybe you will see me on here tomorrow… maybe in a few months. Either way, I really hope everyone is doing well. Send us an email or two, tell us about life and what is new. We would love to hear from you. Who knows, maybe the next post will be from Shane. :)</span></div>
<br />Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-77922423340233973942011-07-24T12:18:00.000-07:002011-07-24T13:45:14.852-07:00My Struggle with Perfection<div align="justify">Ginger Writes, "It’s time for another blog entry… Why? Because I want to put off my workout! (Honesty will set you free... LOL) Shane is at work today so I am having a nice “alone” day today. Alone days are good sometimes. I enjoy them here and there. They allow me to gather my thoughts and reflect on life a little. It’s been a busy few months so it is nice to not have anything planned and have the day just for me. (Although if I had to choose it would be a day for both Shane and Me)<br /></div><br /><br /><p align="justify">So what’s new in the world of Shane and Ginger? Well, we have settled into our home in Cedar City. It’s been almost 2 months now. I have enjoyed seeing Shane almost everyday and have gotten use to the drive to and from work. I have the best Boss’ in the world, who have allowed me to work one day a week from home. I will NEVER take for granted that I work for the most amazing people in the world. Even on the hardest days, I still love my job. As for working at home, it is strange that I feel I get more done in that one day than I do sometimes at the office. The move to Cedar has been surprisingly enjoyable.</p><br /><br /><p align="justify">Shane is still plugging away with his current job. He loves the income and the stress free mentality but not so much the hours. He is home almost every night so we can't complain too much. He is also working his butt off to help with the new company his parents started. It is call HTC Trucking. He made the joke the other day that they named it after my LOVE for my phone. (HTC) BUT with all sarcasm aside it was named after his grandparents. Harold and Thelma Caldwell. I have been in awe watching the 3 of them (His parents and Shane) get this operation up and running. They now have 3 trucks and are in desperate need to hire drivers to keep up with the demand in loads. Shane’s Mom is a rockstar by maintaining loyal clients she has worked with in the past and they all seem to not care it is a “New” company because they love her so much. Some have even decided to go against their normal policy of not taking on companies less than 2 years old, just so they can keep working with her. It has been a blessing. The only real set back, so far, has been finding drivers in the Cedar City area. None of us would have thought in this economy it would be hard to find people to work. However, I don’t think it will be an issue too much longer, last week there were A LOT of people calling for the job. There were many people who didn’t believe they could do this. The competitive side of me is pretty excited they have proved all those negative people WRONG!</p><br /><br /><p align="justify">I have taken on a new workout program which also includes a Shake in the mornings and eating more healthy. Most of you reading this know this already because you hang out with me on facebook. My physical health has been a struggle my whole life. (Or at least since I was a teenager) When I say struggle I don’t mean that this whole time I have had a weight issue. My weight has fluctuated by 10lbs to 50lbs this whole time and even on the low end I have felt “Gross” about myself. It has been the emotional side of my body image that I have struggled with, not so much the weight. It is AMAZING to me now, looking back, to see pictures of myself over the years. There are some pictures I see and think “Wow, I look great” but if I reflect on how I felt at that time, I felt Fat and Lazy. How sad! It has really hit me the most since I have met Shane, just how hard I have been on myself over the years. Self image is HUGE! Since I have met Shane I believe I had put on about 30lbs. BUT for some reason, I hadn’t noticed as much as I would have in the past. I truly believe it was because I had spent those 3 years after I went through divorce, before meeting Shane, working on my Emotional health. There is a lot to be said for feeling emotionally healthy. I believe the first real moment I felt this shift regarding my weight and my emotions behind it, was when I went to pick out my wedding dress. My best friend Andrea was with me and although I was so excited to go with her and her daughter, I remember dreading it a little because at the time I was at my all-time high weight. BUT as I was trying on the dresses, I forgot about it. When I found the one that I would wear on my wedding day I thought to myself… “If I don’t lose one single pound, I am going to be just fine with it… I have never felt so beautiful in a dress” Had I been at this weight 10 years ago and tried on that same dress, I would have obsessed over being the heaviest I had ever been and trashed myself with Negative Self Talk regarding “How I could have let myself get like this.” It didn’t matter back then how much people told me I looked great, I didn’t believe them. I look at some of the pictures now and think… WHAT WAS I THINKING?, I did look great! The shift I have seen come over the last few years is that I feel good about myself from the inside and so it just doesn’t matter what my weight is anymore, I look great no matter what. That day finding my dress was a blast! Changing the way I see myself makes ALL the difference!</p><br /><br /><p align="justify">I have learned a few things since starting the “Insanity” workout DVD’s and also since I have started drinking the shakes in the morning. One, I have had to re-face a lifetime battle with Perfectionism. I am most certain many of you can relate to this. (Especially others in my family) If not, here is how it works… “If I don’t do something perfect, I don’t want to do it at all” My whole life has been this way. Another way to describe it is by sharing with all of you that I am a “LIST” maker. I have been my entire life, ask my Mom. If I miss one thing on the list… I am frustrated. Instead of celebrating all the things I have accomplished, I get upset over the one or two things I did not. Crazy, Eh? The logical side of me knows this is a very hard way to get through life. The emotional side of me is addicted to trying to be perfect. Now, over the last 5 years, I have hit this set back HEAD ON. I have been very lucky to have people in my life to remind me it’s ok to not be perfect, to not get everything done, to have bad days, to get upset with people and them with me, and to even express my frustrations of life. SO... this Insanity workout program has been another test of this life long battle and it ALMOST won. </p><br /><br /><p align="justify">Over a year ago I had tried to make it through another program called p90X. (made by the same company) I got about 3 weeks through it and missed a few workouts. That was it, I was done. I had no motivation to do it because I had already messed it up. I had lost about 10 pounds but quickly put it back on because I found myself discouraged I had not done the program exactly the way it was prescribed. Also about 6 months ago I found myself really wanting to take up running. This too was dropped because I could not find a way to train just perfectly. Just think of all the great things I am missing out on because I hold myself to this unreasonable standard!</p><br /><br /><p align="justify">A few months ago, I was determined to try again...I started with just drinking the shakes in the morning. I had again lost about 10lbs. I was excited and was ready to try a work out program but this time with “Insanity”. The first day was the “Fit Test” and to say it was one of the hardest workouts I had done, was an understatement. My body hurt so much the next day, I did not continue on. I then took a trip back to Wisconsin and stopped drinking my shakes and ate like crap… and guess what?!? I put on almost all the weight I had lost. BUT, when I got back home, I had a few good conversations with some close friends to remind me I don’t have to be perfect at it. So, I started it again. This time instead of seeing it as a 9 week program, I am taking it on as a program that has 55 workouts. If it takes me 9 weeks, GREAT, if it takes me 18 weeks, GREAT… heck, if it takes me ALL year, GREAT! I can not tell you how much this has helped me keep going. There have been a few days I just wouldn’t do the workout. BUT the next day, I was back at it. I am not doing it PERFECT and for some reason it has been a liberating feeling to not do it exactly the way it is supposed to be done. I plan to embrace this feeling and shift it into other areas of my life I am still struggling. The saying “Do your best, forget the rest” has come into my mind over and over... I am very grateful! </p><br /><br /><p align="justify">Well, this blog entry is getting pretty long, so for those who have been asking… the Wedding plans are still in the works but almost complete. We think there will be about 75 people traveling out to Long Beach to join us on our day. I am getting so excited to call Shane my Husband. Words cannot describe it. Of those 75 people about 40 of them will be going on the Cruise. It will be a moment in our lives we will never forget. We have also gotten a lot of responses from those who cannot make it and will be joining us at a St. George reception. We are still working out the details for it, so stay tuned. We feel so fortunate to have so many family and friends who want to be a part of our lives. I do not take it for granted. If you are still thinking of joining us in Long Beach, it’s not too late, send Shane and I a message and we can get you information. One of the wishes I had for our day was to be surrounded by the ones we love… there will be no greater gift."</p>Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-16475197587229446172011-06-10T12:40:00.000-07:002011-07-24T13:45:46.542-07:00Life's Bumps<div align="justify">Ginger Writes “Life has been a nonstop rollercoaster these last few months. The ride started at the end of April when I got the call from my brother, while I was at work, that my Step Dad was in the hospital and that it didn’t look good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>After I sat in the back group room and cried, I immediately booked a red eye to get back to Wisconsin.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The emotions I felt that day are unlike any I remember feeling. There have been mixed emotions over the years… as everyone feels w<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSQV3vFYinzUaIidaYYQzbFaRr7o-wjPo7foWpsJLsRP-iPccRC4Ax8EJETrOn2wF_bqapbQOayxQOq7gvxE_0zArxuALUgAPQs23g7XJC69vcwsFAiGPWMkCZP_DhEBOzGmiXx7iGcM/s1600/Mom+and+Don.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616686445296161458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnSQV3vFYinzUaIidaYYQzbFaRr7o-wjPo7foWpsJLsRP-iPccRC4Ax8EJETrOn2wF_bqapbQOayxQOq7gvxE_0zArxuALUgAPQs23g7XJC69vcwsFAiGPWMkCZP_DhEBOzGmiXx7iGcM/s320/Mom+and+Don.jpg" /></a>hen parents have remarried. But at that moment none of that mattered. All that mattered is that I wanted to get home to hold my Mom’s hand and to hopefully see him before he passed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"></span>I scrambled to get everything in place at work before I left. I was unsure how long I would be gone exactly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>But on my drive home I got another call from my brother that he had just witnessed his passing. I pulled the car over and again just let myself cry. My heart was aching for my Mom, she loved him dearly, as did I. More than I think any of us have ever accepted. I have been blessed to not have much death in my life. Most significant had been my Grandpa Dan when I was 15 and it was devastating and I never wanted to experience it again. Unlike Shane who I have learned has experienced a lot of death in his family, I just have been sheltered from it. During the week that I was home it was nice to be with all my family. I miss them a lot. Even though I wish it was under different circumstances.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Shane was able to fly out on a flight a few days later and stay with us the majority of the week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We both had some deep conversations about life and our future.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I fell more in love with him, even though I didn’t even think it was possible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>There is a lot to be said for someone who can give you a hug and make everything else not matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Shane does this for me. He grounds me unlike anyone else in this world can. <!--?xml:namespace prefix = o /--><?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p><br /><br /></div><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" align="justify">When I got back to St George a little over a week later, I was in “Catch Up” mode at work. I love my work. More now than I ever have. I was thrown back by the love and understanding I got when I returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I don’t know why I was thrown back by this, this is always true with my job. But it was a nice reminder that I am loved as a person not just for the things I do for the company. There are many shifts going on at work. In my mind all AWESOME! We are shifting our image and will be rolling out a new website, we are reorganizing and it has been refreshing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We have a lot of things in the pot and they are finally starting to come to life. BUT even good shifts come with stress. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"></span>I have always loved change. I thrive off it. I don’t know why, it is just a part of me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It always breaks my heart when I see people who are threatened by it and are resistant to change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have had to learn (again) that we are all different and all react differently to situations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In the last few weeks I have been able to calm my mind to accept that not everyone is going to like me for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have also learned (again) who DOES love me for me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>My boss made a comment to me yesterday that has completely calmed my soul over these changes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It was simply “You do not have to be perfect”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>In that moment I believed it and all the stress of these shifts became exciting once again. </p><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" align="justify">The other fun shift going on has been that I moved up to Cedar City over Memorial Day weekend. It was a bitter sweet move.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>At the same time that I was moving out, my friend Brylee was moving in because her husband (Zac) was being deployed to Iraq and she needed a place to stay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>We have all been sad but proud of him for this courageous sacrifice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It’s all that I could think of the entire weekend and the next week.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Zac has been a dear friend since I have moved to St. George. He has loved me and supported me through all the hills and valleys. When I moved here I believe he was only 15 and I took him on as a little brother and have watched him grow into this amazing man who I am so proud to call my friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I could go on, but the tears are forming and I know he doesn’t want us crying, so I will not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I am just simply going to say, that I love you dearly Zac!<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 202px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616689410011414386" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdqfWb2Z2uYxkP8WGuitn4RpreF3Xuj31Ll1_xQXkGPxbtfkNAxZLADAuW5hxYt-2sbjIh260sb8iG-9LsAdy-RivBbB2wSbndYw7_upGU9Bd3m_E-oFXm-CuMW2e8h0LzsQ_pvAsnKAc/s320/ZacsBBQ.jpg" />The move has been full of emotions. I have LOVED seeing Shane every single day. (except the one night a week he has an overnight run)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>He has also been my anchor for the shifts going on with work and it has been so wonderful to get home and tell him about my day and to be able to move forward hearing about his day too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>His parents have started a new company that became official this week. This company has been a dream of his since he was 14 or 15.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It has been so fun to hear the challenges and the progress they have been making in its creation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It has also been fun to have some insight with my knowledge of business to help in small ways. </p><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" align="justify">I have been feeling nervous about the hour drive to and from work every day. Surprisingly (and to what I believe will be Shane’s relief) I have enjoyed it. It has given me a time to prepare for the day and to then wind my mind down when the day is finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The only drawback has been the days I put 10 or 12 hour days into work, it has made it to be a very long day by the time I get home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Other than that, this move has been pretty darn cool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I thi nk Shane h as been more excited than me to decorate the house.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>The words he says are to make it “Homey”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>It has been a bachelor pad for years now… so far we have </p><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><div align="justify"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 191px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616683604103853634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVVshcWEp2IfL_vmvlBepnp2MtR8B5bbnwMApHe_UBx6qfvOT6MiZ95AEFCgSlbR3pFcREl4ihNkSRHpXb3q9d9ZuzcHqYg8YdGtZhNTGRYOIc8cKfci_kN-MqWCAyJrka-4orniR1DxM/s320/Guest+Room.jpg" />made a few minor changes and it has made a huge difference. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes"></span>The guest room is just starting to come together. We have a nice Queen bed ready for anyone that wants to come and visit!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>(My Mom gets first dibs, she is coming for the week on June 19<sup>th</sup>) </div><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><div align="justify"></div><br /><div align="justify"><br /></div><br /><div align="justify">Well, I think I have probably shared enough for one blog.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>I have much more to say, but I will save it for another time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>Till next time….”</div>Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-33778210551871916792011-02-16T00:28:00.000-08:002011-07-24T13:46:25.377-07:00Vacation!!! Oh how I love VACATION!!!!<div align="justify">Ginger writes "Vacation! Oh how I love it… I didn’t even know how much I needed it until I got back to work today and felt AMAZING! I am a believer in vacations, more than ever. It needs to be a priority in every person’s life. Vacations allow people to be more productive in all areas because it’s an opportunity to let go and relieve the mind of the stress that builds over time. A happy individual is a more productive individual and Vacations make me very happy.<br /><br />So, with that said let me share a little of my vacation with all of you that wish to hear about it. Shane and I took<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejbi8MxrjX7mbk_LgTcacQCxJIm-PH_6U6UWpqTKCcYo6yO0KqC7vhn51BD6xOTK0AOzLqCxHDZi0F4FCtYYI9kMrPFJMee_5Zv3WBpURkVHCa-ll7AEDjJRij8iZKt1GMVF_MBfO8Ao/s1600/Condo.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574218474818904018" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjejbi8MxrjX7mbk_LgTcacQCxJIm-PH_6U6UWpqTKCcYo6yO0KqC7vhn51BD6xOTK0AOzLqCxHDZi0F4FCtYYI9kMrPFJMee_5Zv3WBpURkVHCa-ll7AEDjJRij8iZKt1GMVF_MBfO8Ao/s200/Condo.JPG" /></a> a Thursday to a Monday off of work, not a full week, just 3 working days and I suppose since I didn’t make it into the office until 1ish today that it would make it 3 and a half days. But that is beside the point. We spent most of Thursday traveling and arrived in Orlando, FL that evening. We shared a condo with My Mom, Step Dad, Grandma, Brother, Sister (in law) and my adorable niece and nephew. I am officially sold on the idea of getting a condo for vacation. It was so nice to have a common area to visit with everyone and to relax.<br /><br /><br />I could give you all the play by play but instead I am going to share my feelings about it all. First, I cannot get enough of my nephew Elijah and his silliness. He says the cutest things that only a 3 year old (Soon to be 4 year old) would say. Every time I spend time with him I am reminded that life is too short to take anything too seriously.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdBkZOP3Fi1cvo6Dtr0Zo-NAhHadbwcy0OUFQJzzR213dvoDaan5INrYhTQRBENjqtRzbJk6coISnJhYipI6uW59YXyxyL1G-MbSPugepvXZaZAfZlKuIhmZhL0jovYgL2ke9xvZ0IqQ/s1600/Elijah.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 244px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 264px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574211039568606562" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAdBkZOP3Fi1cvo6Dtr0Zo-NAhHadbwcy0OUFQJzzR213dvoDaan5INrYhTQRBENjqtRzbJk6coISnJhYipI6uW59YXyxyL1G-MbSPugepvXZaZAfZlKuIhmZhL0jovYgL2ke9xvZ0IqQ/s320/Elijah.JPG" /></a> I am not sure I can count how many times he fell down or bumped his head and then quickly said.. “I’m Okay”… just in case anyone needed to know. Of course there were the times he was not Okay and needed a Kiss to make it all better.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1XT8ap1A6X1M5LjRYgbD-V3CEHL7weuUlYoKKWHq_iPugF-SA7bZ8Z_Evof5HPmanxYG4UwD17sD1IyOlRHNyW5QvoVZ3BCCXNzwLOVOHxJRWetSmr4rX4624cKnozgRFaXYv6KqWIFE/s1600/Emmie+at+AK+2.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574209142825953858" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1XT8ap1A6X1M5LjRYgbD-V3CEHL7weuUlYoKKWHq_iPugF-SA7bZ8Z_Evof5HPmanxYG4UwD17sD1IyOlRHNyW5QvoVZ3BCCXNzwLOVOHxJRWetSmr4rX4624cKnozgRFaXYv6KqWIFE/s320/Emmie+at+AK+2.JPG" /></a> Then there is my Niece Emmie, who has picked up from her big brother, that a kiss can make any boo boo better. She is at that cute stage where she runs a little faster than her feet can keep up and finds herself diving head first when she is not paying attention. Her Daddy or Mommy run to her rescue and she immediately needs a kiss. It’s like magic and she is smiling away! Oh, how I love those kids!!!! And the best news, there is another one on the way in April! Being an Auntie is the best! I could go on and on of all the cute stories…<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kBwA1f46gnvh-Js6FuMgA8-iVVFoeK1BYCUN_rJnRK-u7ACePFSjIGDuTQw-Ah8BB2M7R6qL0pajnvZAxy57syaj8A4FyePkLJNOweMmD4EqvuvaZzX-3EL3FTzbegO9ovX7WGfrgqE/s1600/Shane+and+Ginger+AK.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 200px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 150px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574217688661853890" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-kBwA1f46gnvh-Js6FuMgA8-iVVFoeK1BYCUN_rJnRK-u7ACePFSjIGDuTQw-Ah8BB2M7R6qL0pajnvZAxy57syaj8A4FyePkLJNOweMmD4EqvuvaZzX-3EL3FTzbegO9ovX7WGfrgqE/s200/Shane+and+Ginger+AK.JPG" /></a>My Bro, his wife and kids all went to the Animal Kingdom with Shane and me on Friday. It was cold at first but then warmed up enough to make it enjoyable. I was somewhat grateful for the mild weather since it kept the crowds down significantly.<br /></div><br /><p align="justify"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574211426905183458" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJf5_DeLrBxX28DI45UyjxrxvJ_stjP_BHLfTeyM28w92TaWsyOmgWzVCc9Il_3bNOuHYklXk1pg-tI0oIJY64DF-f2kmndoyQ9XbDvdGFp7u7txQcXzBsHFbIaOIXvEwl_zS1sFN3RgI/s320/Shane+and+Elijah+AK.JPG" />I am always hearing from family and friends who have gone in the past that it is the most crowded of all the Disney Parks. This day, it wasn’t so. I think the pictures I post on Facebook will tell the story of our adventures at the park. But to say the least, we LOVED IT!!! Got a lot of great video of the kiddos to treasure forever!<br /><br /><br />Saturday was our last day together with the family since everyone (But us) needed to head home on Sunday.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcZpF2r9iA_LpJj1k-sKJxHvFE3e4JWZ5xbK6vSldgM-sdUCQRG-149quUNbG7MppF-0BVGyqI5tmbFWFLt0a-MAC31BjsrUw0jdxKFaaxLXzaIj9aSK8S4OJqtMzw92sfXZJBV1KBBM/s1600/Josh+and+India+Florida.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 210px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 152px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574212728155000082" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMcZpF2r9iA_LpJj1k-sKJxHvFE3e4JWZ5xbK6vSldgM-sdUCQRG-149quUNbG7MppF-0BVGyqI5tmbFWFLt0a-MAC31BjsrUw0jdxKFaaxLXzaIj9aSK8S4OJqtMzw92sfXZJBV1KBBM/s200/Josh+and+India+Florida.JPG" /></a> So we left the kiddos with Mom, Don and Grandma to enjoy and went to downtown Disney to stroll the area. I just loved hanging out with my Brother Josh and his wife India. Reminded me of old times when I saw them more. I sure do miss them and enjoyed every second of it. We got the chance to talk a little bit about the half marathon we will be running in September. I should probably clarify... India and I will be running in September. We haven’t gotten the boys to fully commit but we’ll see what happens. I will be coming back to Wisconsin to run it and I don’t think Shane will be able to pull it off with his work schedule. But he has committed to run a few 5K’s with me to get warmed up for it.<br /><br />Sunday we said goodbye. I found myself tearing up because I see my Grandma’s the least of all my family. It was so wonderful to see my Grandma Lucy and it made me miss my Grandma Marian. I finally told my Grandma of my plans to name my first Girl Lucy Ella. It has been my plan since I was a young girl so if it’s in the cards I still plan it to be that way. My nick name on my Mom’s side of the family has been Ella and it just flows so nicely when it’s put with my Grandma’s name. You never know though… there may be no kids, there may be 5 kids, all boys, all girls… we shall see.<br /><br />So anyway, Sunday after we checked out of the Condo, Shane and I headed to Cocoa Beach to visit an old dear friend of mine (Drey) from Oshkosh. She moved down to FL in the last few years with her 4 kids and I was so excited to see them all. She gave us a very nice tour of the city and we were able to eat dinner at a restaurant on the pier. So awesome! It was during this time I got to know her kids a little better. It has been a very, very long time since I have met children under the age of 11 who had such amazing manners and social skills. </p><br /><p align="justify"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574221464233698754" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVRr0_8RyX532I84UqdBLC6poJ68SEcJ6NMWv0boHC1iiEasaXoEEwMs0wqXRGbJ6IT261u_5dFTovYnv8F7MTdr7NvGEih6KBrduoKRNeSeudMfV_z4Ef9rNT9Rs9p83VlkWiPrReic4/s400/Drey+Family.JPG" />They were so sweet and learning what they have all been through in the last few years made me want to just sweep them up and hug them. God keeps trying to tell me something by crossing my path with such amazing kids. OR maybe my clock is just starting to tick on me. Hahahaha. Who knows… I just know I enjoyed being with them all and was reminded once again that it is possible to go years without seeing or talking to someone and then to be reunited as if no time has passed. Drey, thanks for being such an amazing soul in my life, no matter when our paths cross. It is always so great to have friends who are nonjudgmental people and who are just loving and accepting of all things.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihokc1eluvZXX8mgEyZd2hWU6WyuRCYqu1Qll3Zqi_V6VO9S_iifshe20-10I6Uk0V9mXXkSgy9yR8KJH02tUz-610E7BKQ8e4Kb3JcwBhl33NNwlyXqZWQN1TQaVd5yvpNFtMaUuA8yk/s1600/Bird+On+Beach.JPG"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 230px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 168px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574213859877601634" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihokc1eluvZXX8mgEyZd2hWU6WyuRCYqu1Qll3Zqi_V6VO9S_iifshe20-10I6Uk0V9mXXkSgy9yR8KJH02tUz-610E7BKQ8e4Kb3JcwBhl33NNwlyXqZWQN1TQaVd5yvpNFtMaUuA8yk/s200/Bird+On+Beach.JPG" /></a><br />So Sunday was our last night in Orlando, we ended up getting a hotel near the airport and I was able to enjoy some alone time with Shane. I know I get sappy about him… maybe more than most care to read about… but this trip was again a reminder of why I am going to marry him. I am so in love with him and enjoy every minute I get to spend with him. I find myself being more at ease with him than with any other person in my life. I have shared every sin and every achievement in my life with him, some no others know about and yet he still just loves me because I am “Me”. He doesn’t want anything about me to change, nor do I of him. We are each individuals yet we flow together so nicely. So, before anyone starts heaving, I will just add once last thing… HE IS MINE, ALL MINE!<br /><br />Monday was another travel day. We didn’t land in Vegas until 7:30 which is 10:30 Florida time. We were very tired. BUT I was excited to get to the hotel we booked there because Monday was my Sisters Birthday and she so happens to live in Vegas. We met up at the Excalibur and had dinner with her and her husband and spent some time together after. It was really awesome to see them. We don’t see them enough considering they only live a few hours away. It was a nice reminder that Shane and I need to get down there more and visit.<br /><br />Monday was also somewhat of an anniversary for Shane and I. (and of course Valentine’s Day). You see Shane and I met and started dating on January 9th, 2009 but we didn’t officially consider ourselves an item until that following February 14th. It was that day that Shane finally got the nerve to kiss me after many dates and well… the rest is history, we have been together ever since. (By the way, it was him waiting those many, many dates to kiss me that made me fall for him… it’s rare to be courted these days and he is always such a gentlemen)<br /><br />So that brings me to the end… so till next time, thank you to everyone who takes the time to be a part of our lives, we don’t take it for granted and are very thankful for all of you! " </p><br /><p></p>Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-60574420896967336362011-02-04T21:56:00.000-08:002011-02-05T08:31:01.240-08:00A Story about Shane and Ronald Reagan.Ginger Writes "Today I am going to share a story about Shane. (Aaron, I don’t think this is the type of story you are looking for, so I will warn ya now so you are not disappointed, this is not an embarrassing one. I will share something embarrassing soon, I promise) <br /><br />Today while I was at Wal-Mart I was checking out and noticed the special edition of Life Magazine featuring Ronald Reagan. Now, anyone that knows Shane knows that he is Shane’s hero. So, I got him a copy. While I was in the car driving I thought of our 3rdish date or so where we started talking about politics. And well, anyone who knows me knows I can’t hardly stand the topic. Sure I have opinions and what not, but I find I get frustrated very easily with people’s intolerance of each other’s opinions and politics is a sure way to learn about people’s judgmental side. It doesn’t matter what your views are, if you can’t respect others opinions, it drives me nuts! I have many friends on both sides of the fence who I respect dearly so if someone is degrading or dehumanizing a person based on a political view, it makes me ill. <br /><br />So, here came the scary, yet necessary date where we learned about each other’s political views. A sure deal breaker for either of us if we found that we could not tolerate the way the other viewed this sensitive subject. I wish I could remember the EXACT conversation, but at some point I tried to crack a joke about actors running for office. (Everyone should know this does not bother me, I was just trying to lighten the conversation) and almost immediately I saw a look of sadness in Shane’s eyes. I thought, well that’s weird, I was just kidding. But he then went on to tell me that he really liked Ronald Reagan and didn’t see the issue with actors running for office. I quickly shifted the subject to something else (Cause that’s what I do regarding political discussions) and we carried on with our date. I found out sometime later that this little 2 minute discussion about Ronald Reagan ALMOST was a deal breaker for him. (He denies this, but I know otherwise) Thank goodness we had many other discussions on politics later and he then knew exactly how I felt. But what SOLD me on his Love for Ronald Reagan was what he told me later in the evening. When I asked him why he liked him so much Shane said “Because he genuinely loved his wife”. Here I was waiting for him to go on some conservative rampage about all the great things Regan did, but instead it was simply because he loved his wife. It made my heart melt and he probably didn’t realize at the time, but he scored major points on my “I am going to hang onto this guy” meter. <br /><br />Since then, I have found I can talk to Shane about anything political even when we disagree and I NEVER get frustrated with him. He is the most respectful person when it comes to politics yet he is never, not once, afraid to share how he is feeling or his personal views on a subject. I have learned a lot from his ability to have an opinion without getting worked up (Except you Devin… haha, jk) But really, even when he has a heated debate with someone it is just that, a debate and then everyone moves on. No hard feelings, no lost respect, no words later about what an idiot that person was for having a different opinion than him… just a couple of people sharing their thoughts on the world. I hope over time I can become a little more like him. Share my thoughts and feelings on the subject, but for now.. I will just say… Shane you are my hero."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-3399049411843431382011-01-31T21:25:00.000-08:002011-07-24T13:46:54.074-07:00Taking Up Running! Really?!?<div align="justify">Ginger Writes “I am really starting to get excited about running a half marathon. Yep, that’s right. Sounds like it will be late August or early September, Not sure where yet and I can’t fully explain why I would be excited about running, I am NOT a runner. I am hoping to be working out the details in a few weeks while I am in Florida. BUT, I am going to do it! I purchased a book online for Rookie Half Marathon runners and by what I can gather I need to at least spend the next 8 weeks to prepare for the training. Yep, pre-training for the actual training. I almost laughed myself right out of my seat when I read that. According to this information I need to be able to run for 25 to 30 minutes straight before beginning the REAL training. Now, I have several friends who are marathon runners. You can’t live in St. George and not have friends who are marathon runners. I am hoping to sign up for the many 5K’s that pop up around here to help prepare for it.<br /><br />So what else can I say? I am starting to learn that I need more than just losing weight as a motivation for working out. I need to be working toward something. It couldn’t come at a better time since I am trying to prepare myself for the wedding in September. The best part is that I don’t really care what size my dress is as long as I feel I am healthy. This is a shift that came over the last few years as I have learned to just love myself the way I am. Shane has been a big part of that. A day doesn’t go by that he doesn’t tell me how beautiful he believes I am. In some ways (Don’t tell him) I feel so comfortable with myself and my body, I haven’t had a motivation to get back in shape. BUT, that has now changed with the thought of working towards a fun life goal. I have always wanted to run a marathon. I never really thought I could do it though. Maybe by running a half marathon I can decide then if a FULL marathon would be realistic. If it is, I will plan to run the famous St. George Marathon. It will have to be in 2012 since I will be on a FUN Cruise during this year’s run.<br /><br />Ok, I think I have rambled enough… Goodnight everyone!”</div>Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-4697492627472973572011-01-27T10:38:00.000-08:002011-01-27T10:39:25.167-08:00It's Been Way To Long...Ginger Writes "Well, It’s been since August since I have posted anything on here. Part of it is that so much has been going on I get overwhelmed wondering if I can get it all in a post. I also start to wonder.. do people really want to read about our lives? BUT, I finally decided to stop worrying about it and just start typing to see what comes out. If you are reading this now, it’s because you want to, not because we have forced it on ya! Hahaha. <br /> <br />Currently, this week, life is pretty calm. Shane and I are gearing up for a trip to Florida on the 10th to visit My Mom and Grandma. I am excited because by coincidence my brother and his wife are also going at the same time. They will be there for the whole week and we are meeting up with them on that Thursday. I am so excited to give my niece and nephew a great big hug and kiss. I don’t see them as much as I wish I could. It’s going to be awesome and I can’t wait!<br /><br />My Mom and Step Dad came to visit in September. Wait, maybe it was October. Wow, I can’t believe I can’t remember which month! Well, anyway, they stayed at Shane’s parent’s house and we had a blast! I enjoyed every minute of it! It was fun for my two worlds to collide and for everyone to get to know each other. Only thing that would have made it more perfect is if Shane’s Dad could have been there. He was on the road that week so we missed him dearly. <br /><br />The end of 2010 brought some tears and sorrow. Shane’s beloved Grandfather passed away. We were grateful we were able to get up to Idaho to visit him in November, but it was a difficult several months for his family. The passing of a loved one is always so hard. I personally have not figured out how to deal with loss. I am not sure anyone ever does. My biggest fear in life is losing the ones I love. My heart went out to everyone involved. We went up to Idaho for the burial, and although it was nice to meet more of Shane’s family, I sure wish it could have been under different circumstances. It was pretty amazing to see so many people at the graveside service. A quick scan counted more than 100 people in attendance. Shane and I will be blessed to touch even a fraction of the lives his Grandparents did, and I wish I could have gotten to know them better.<br /><br />Christmas came and went. It was simple. Shane had to work so I spent the day with my “Other” family. The Nixons and the Taylors are always so good to me and I feel so grateful I always feel at home with them. I did, however, get to have a late, late dinner with Shane and his parents and then we spent time at their house exchanging presents. It reminded me of the late nights at my Dad's house with his family and I found myself a little home sick. I enjoyed every minute of it and LOVE the family I will be marrying into. <br /><br />New Years was AWESOME. Shane did not have to work that night so we had ourselves a little party with our friends. We had TONS and TONS of food and games, it was so much fun!! It was our first official New Years together since last year he had to work. I really loved getting a midnight kiss!<br /><br />The first week of January I made my final payment on a piece of debt I have been paying off since I moved away from Wisconsin. It was the last piece holding me to my past and well, I gotta say, it was such a great relief to see the check clear the bank. Shane and I had ourselves a mini celebration with a trip away to Zion’s. Zion’s is probably my favorite place on the entire planet, so to say the least.. IT ROCKED! Of course, I still have some of my own personal stuff I am paying off but I am on track to be 100% out of debt before the Wedding in September. Shane and I have had several people ask us why we are having such a long engagement and this is the main reason why. I always told myself if I ever got married again I would be out of debt before it happened. Not that I wouldn’t marry Shane if I still had debt but it is going to be pretty sweet to actually see something so important to me happen. I am very blessed to have a few things in my life contribute to getting out of debt. First, SHANE… he has let me use his Jeep for some time now and there is NO way my precious 98 dodge neon would have survived the many trips up to Cedar City and back. It takes a real Man to give up such a cool car to drive around a Neon. The second are Dean and Andrea. When I made the decision to move out of my apartment and in with them, it came when all of us needed help financially. It was a WIN, WIN for everyone. BUT it has been the biggest contributor to paying down what felt like a never ending pile of debt that would haunt me forever and ever. I have learned my lesson for life… with the exception of maybe one more car and then a mortgage, every purchase from here forward will be with cash. If I don’t have cash to pay off the card I make the purchase with (Because everyone should still use reward cards) I won’t have it. PERIOD! <br /><br />I have saved the hardest thing to type about for last. If you have made it this far without falling asleep, beware that what I have left to share is sad. When I met Shane 2 years ago, he told me he had an awesome yellow lab that was unlike any other dog I would ever meet. I could tell he truly believed this but it was on our 2nd date, where we saw the movie Marley and Me, that I got a real understanding of the love he had for his doggy. He spent a good portion of the end of the movie trying to hide that he was tearing up. I must say, that even though he was embarrassed by these tears, for a 2nd date.. I was impressed. I didn’t get to meet Shane’s dog Kobe until several dates later when we went snowmobiling. The picture I currently have as my profile picture on facebook is from this first meeting. He enjoyed the snow and the excitement of getting to go somewhere in the back of Shane's Jeep. This was also the first time I met Shane’s parents and I could tell they loved Kobe Dog as much as Shane. I hadn’t fully learned what was so special about him on this first meeting, but I know I instantly loved him. He was friendly and sweet, and loved a great belly rub! Over the last two years I have learned firsthand exactly what Shane told me on our first date. Kobe Dog was the best doggy ever! He just loved everyone and every person who crossed his path. Everyone was touched by his gentle eyes and soul. A few weeks ago, Kobe Dog was not doing well. He wasn’t eating and having a hard time getting around. It was heartbreaking. Everyone was praying that he would come out of it but after a long, long night of no sleep and watching him in what seemed like pain… the very hard decision came to let him go. There were a lot of tears. I won’t get into details, because I am not sure it is my place to share them, but I can say it was one of the hardest things I have ever witnessed to see my future husband lose his bestest friend he ever had. Shane loved this doggy with all his heart because this doggy loved Shane with all his heart. It was an unconditional love that can only be given by a doggy. I have never seen anything like it, nor do I think I will ever see it again. Kobe Dog WAS the most special doggy I have ever met and he will be dearly missed.<br /><br />So with that, I will end this post. I hope to start blogging some more and hopefully it won’t be a list of events to catch everyone up and put you to sleep. I have decided that I won’t be afraid to share my life in this blog, cause when I do, I feel more open and free. So here we go.. 2011 here I come! AND Aaron, if you made it this far, I promise I will post some fun stories of Shane for your personal enjoyment… hahaha. Just don’t tell him I said that"Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-26444738754647919672010-08-29T20:07:00.000-07:002010-08-29T20:09:40.876-07:00Our VacationShane writes:<br />Ginger and I took a few days to recharge the batteries and to visit with some awesome people. The first leg of our trip took us to Bear Lake in northern Utah for my family reunion. We got to Bear Lake Friday afternoon and met up with some cousins that I haven't seen in a very long time. It was great to re-connect with them. We had a Luau style dinner with pork, pineapple, numerous pasta salads, and sweet desserts. Unfortunately, just as we were starting dinner, mother nature was starting to brew up a very nasty windstorm. You know, the kind where branches fly off trees and bash you in the shoulder. The wind got so bad that many trees ended up falling over completely. This created havoc for the tent campers. It was a bummer that the weather ruined our plans for a fireside visit, but it all worked out as my Dad's brothers and sisters and in-laws all crowded into our tiny KOA cabin. It was a blast and we had a very nice visit.<br /><br />Day two saw us wake up at 5:30 (yeah, AM. ON VACATION!!!) to get to the SLC airport to catch a flight to Milwaukee. We drove from Milwaukee to Elcho, WI where Ginger's family reunion takes place every year. This was my first trip to northern Wisconsin, and it is beautiful. I just don't understand why they don't grow corn there?!? (Sarcasm) For those who have never been in the upper mid west, it is very very green and very thick with trees. And corn fields as far as the eye can see. And flying over Minnesota, I noticed that when they say land of 10,000 lakes, they aren't kidding. It was a very pretty drive. We had a great time visiting with her family on Sunday and headed back to Milwaukee Monday morning. We were able to get in a good visit with her brother and her Dad and their significant others Monday night. I flew out Tuesday morning to return home to work. Ginger will have to fill you in on the rest of her trip.<br /><br />If you will indulge me for a minute and let me get sappy, I would like to say that I am very thankful for second chances and for God's grace. This trip was a very stern reminder to me that things happen for a reason and as long as we believe, then our poor decisions don't need to result in unhappiness. Everything in my life has happened for a reason and I have had some major ups and downs, but I have absolutely no doubt in my mind that the woman by my side was intended to be my life partner and I am extremely thankful for her and am humbled by her. Thank you Lord for blessing my life and Thank you Ginger for being my best friend.Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-55012557400007344832010-06-19T13:33:00.000-07:002010-06-19T14:57:30.559-07:00Stuff... and Wedding Plans!!!Ginger Writes "Over the last few blogs Shane and I have posted, several people have mentioned that they have been unable to leave comments on the site. If anyone is interested in leaving a comment they must have a google account, which is free. (there may be some other ways, but I am not sure of them) After you have a google account you can sign in and make comments. You can also follow our blog by clicking on the link in the middle of the right side of the page under "Followers". <br /><br />Shane and I have been doing well. We have been really concentrating on paying down our debt. It has at times been frustrating as we think of our families far away and want to visit more often. However, in the long run we will be able to make those trips more often if we get our butts out of debt. I am personally about 6 months away from finishing some mutual debt I have with Chris (My Ex Husband) and then a few months out after that to have ALL my debt paid off. We have finally decided to wait on getting a new car to replace the NEON until it completely, 100%, dies. In the mean time we are saving for the down payment for when that time comes. I can't even imagine what it is going to feel like to have no debt at all. Although it won't last for long (Shane has a mortgage I will take on with him when we get married and then a car payment unless the NEON lasts forever or we save enough to just pay cash before it dies. Highly unlikely but definitely ideal.)<br /><br />OH, Did I just say... When we get married??? Ok, it is pretty well known for many that Shane and I have been in the process of setting up a wedding date. Although it is not official (Because Shane is being responsible about the purchase and so the ring is not on my finger yet... I did get to pick it out though) We have set a date for September 25, 2011. We are planning to get married in Long Beach, CA and will be taking a cruise to different parts of Mexico immediately after. We have played with the idea of waiting to post a blog until it is "official" but we want EVERYONE that would like to come to have enough time to save so here I am writing about it. We will be getting more information out about this event within the month. I have been gathering addresses to send it out when we have it. SOOOOO, if anyone has not yet gotten us their address please email it to me or Shane, send a Facebook message or text. I have put a few posts up on Facebook asking for addresses. Thank you to everyone who has responded!<br /><br />So, that is it for right now... I hope everyone is doing well. We love hearing from everyone and what is new in your lives, so send us a message!"Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-3319928074723314372010-06-07T10:13:00.000-07:002010-06-11T08:15:25.140-07:00The Simple Things in Life -Ginger Writes "About to start my work day but wanted to blog about a very simple act of kindness this morning that MADE my day!!! This story starts on Saturday when I spoiled myself by purchasing a CD (Regina Spektor – FAR). While I made my drive up to Cedar City late Saturday night I listened to the whole CD. In fact it was perfect timing that as I pulled into Shane’s Driveway that the last track (#13) was finishing. Well, this morning, I got into the Jeep to head back down to St. George and as most CD’s do in a car player, it continued to play. #14 started to play and I thought “ I thought this CD only had 13 tracks…” a bonus track was starting to play and I was thrilled!!! What was very very odd was the song “Somewhere over the rainbow / What a wonderful world” by IZ was playing. While I listened to the song I was remembering a few weeks back how I told Shane I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this song and that I loved IZ. I smiled as I listened to the song and it brought back memories of my trip to Hawaii with my Girls Laura and Anne in 2005. It was very aweseome. BUT then the song ended and another song by IZ came on! I thought to myself… how weird that Ragina would put IZ on her CD as bonus tracks. But then simply thought nothing more of it, other than that I hit the jackpot with this purchase considering I loved both of these artists. The CD then stopped and so I started it over again, thinking I was going to rehear the entire CD. What happened instead was another IZ song came on. I drove for a few minutes really, really confused. I started to realize this was not my Regina CD, but a different one. I pushed the eject button and out popped IZ – Facing Future Album. My eyes started to tear up as I realized Shane must have snuck the CD into the Jeep and coordinated it just right to start playinig on track #14, my favorite song by IZ. There is no way Shane could have know I had just purchased that other CD and that this other CD only had 13 tracks. I called him immediately and thanked him for the nice surprise. It is the little things in life that bring me great, immense joy. And also the weird coincidences like track #14 being my favorite song that make me appreciate this amazing life and the amazing people who are in it, especially Shane who has completely surprised me by showing me I deserve to be loved unconditionally."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-25006931543332121642010-05-26T20:29:00.000-07:002010-05-26T20:36:51.153-07:00"The Only Thing We Have To Fear Is Fear Itslef....And Heights."Shane writes (finally):<br />I took a step in overcoming one of my biggest fears over the weekend. I have been wanting to hike Angel’s Landing for quite some time, but have heard horror stories and have seen countless (ok, 2 to be exact) news stories about people slipping and falling over the edge. I have heard firsthand accounts from people who have gotten to the Scout Lookout and turned back for fear of heights. Then there are those individuals who have the balance of a cat and the courage of a lion who have made it to the top. Ginger is one of these people. I admire that.<br /><br />Well, every adventure begins with the first step. So we set out to conquer the 5 mile round trip 1,500 foot incline. And what a beautiful hike it was. The Southern Utah breeze proved to be very welcome to keep our bodies cool as we made the trek. It was a sunny and the scenery was, as it always is in Zion, unspeakably picturesque. Zion is my favorite place to hike. I admit that my travels have been limited and I have yet to set foot in the Appalachians, the Alps, Yosemite, and on and on. But there is a reason why Zion attracts upwards of 3 million visitors a year from all around the world. It truly is Heaven on Earth.<br /><br />The hike up was pretty tough as we worked to awaken our apathetic winter muscles and tried to keep our lungs from exploding. Once we defeated the switchbacks and got to the Scout overlook, I looked ahead and saw the first chain part of the hike. At first I thought to myself, “It doesn’t look as bad as I thought it would be.” Only .5 of a mile from the top of the cliff, I started to feel the excitement that I was going to make it to the top without a problem. Then came the act of actually climbing the rock face and holding onto the chains. We got about a tenth of a mile before my fear started taking grip. Now, here is where I would like to use the wind as an excuse for my vertigo setting in. It was a very strong breeze on an exposed rock face. However, when I saw a couple of 12 year olds making the climb, I realized that this excuse would not fly. I finally came to realize that I was going to have to admit defeat and accept that I was not going to totally overcome my fear of heights on this particular hike. So, we descended the rock and took a little apple break on the welcome flat surface of Scout Overlook. <br /> <br />There is a spot on the overlook that has a railing so you can walk right to the edge of the cliff and overlook without falling the deadly 1,000 feet. At this point my vertigo was so bad and my heart was racing so much that it took all I had to approach the railing. I stood for a couple of seconds and took in the unbelievable view and the ant-sized people and matchbox sized buses. Then it became a little overwhelming so I backed away and sat down on a nice level rock looking toward an uphill slope. You can’t fall uphill, right? But I kept looking back as Ginger was taking pictures over the railing and I got that queasy feeling in my gut. Then, I saw and elderly couple standing to the side of the railing and peaking over the edge. They were at a part that was totally exposed to the fall. As they approached the edge, the wife kind of stumbled and the husband grabbed her arm to help her keep her balance. I could just see them falling over the ledge. I had to turn away because now my fear was no longer for myself but for them.<br /> <br />Luckily, there were no falls that day. And I learned that I need to quit letting my imagination run wild and “create that scenario” as Ginger would say. I understand all of this. But I have also realized that fears are best confronted by taking baby steps. I look forward to working a little more on my fear of heights, but for now I am glad to have my feet on level ground.Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-16940080205586639952010-05-26T13:33:00.000-07:002010-05-26T11:54:48.577-07:00Twisting of Truth is Still A LIEGinger Writes "I talked to an old friend this morning!! So awesome!! It's been almost Ten years. I LOVE hearing from old friends. I continue to be floored by the rumors that started when I moved to St. George and even more sad to hear who started them and continues to spread them. My only explanation for gossip is insecurity with self. Twisting of the Truth is still a lie!! I have been there, I have told my share of lies over this lifetime, and so I am choosing to understand instead of being angry. Life has gone on and I am thankful for those who decided to love and support me through a very dark period of my life and spoke to me directly to calm their imagination. I definitely learned who my true friends are and made some more in the process! “No accurate thinker will judge another person by that which the other person's enemies say about him.” Napolean Hill. It's true I feel hurt this morning, hence this post, but good comes from all things. I will ALWAYS believe that. Thank you dear friend for getting back in touch with me and being brave enough to ask me questions!"Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-21453997168584912902010-04-16T13:33:00.000-07:002010-04-16T19:05:36.432-07:00The joy of the LARPSMy work day has come to an end. Lots going on in the last week or so. Anna (One of TurningLeaf’s office assistants) has been in Hawaii all week and although I always adore and appreciate her, I now adore and appreciate her even more. I have been working the front desk all week and have been reminded of the many tasks that come with it. Thank you Anna for all you do day in and day out! You deserved every second of that vacation!!!!! I pray you come back refreshed and renewed!<br /><br />Shane and I are doing well. We see each other a few times per week. On Tuesday he asked me if he could come down and take me on a date after work Wednesday and of course I said “YES”!!! Unfortunately I found myself so tired when he got here I felt like just laying around doing nothing. Those 5:30 workouts have been catching up with me. The weather was too nice to sit inside so instead of hitting a movie or laying around on the couch we went and purchased a blanket from sears and laid in the Washington park for hours just talking. We found ourselves watching a group of people putting together a LARP game. For those of you who don’t know what LARP stands for it is simply.. Live Action Role Playing. This is where participants physically act out their characters’ actions while in costume. I immediately thought of the movie Role Model. (Although a little over the top for my taste, still a really funny movie) Shane and I found ourselves quite entertained by the situation. What we also found interesting was the other group of young men making fun of the LARP Gaming. They entered the park from the other end with their remote control car and immediately poked fun from a distance. We watched the dynamics of it and I was reminded of the middle school years of feeling awkward and trying to find my place. There was one boy who just kept laughing and pointing. He even took a picture with his cell phone. Shane and I kept watching from our cozy blanket under the trees while the two groups lived life through their own eyes of seeing the world. I found it reassuring that after about an hour the group of young men poking fun had now wondered over asking questions and even joined in. By the time we left them, we were all having a blast. I love that the simplest things in life bring entertainment into the world. I am now thinking I want to go to one of those renaissance fairs this summer. Life is GOOD!!!!!!Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-87893084478887545762010-04-04T21:40:00.000-07:002010-04-04T21:41:48.874-07:00Fork in the RoadGinger Writes "Shane and I spent Friday together... Hung out in St George, did some shopping and then came back to Cedar City to start organizing the garage for our upcoming yard sale. We went through a lot of my boxes and it stirred up a lot of memories. I am floored at how much emotion can be placed into objects. We put a lot of these objects into the "Yard Sale" pile and others threw away. I felt a little like those people on the show Hoarders when asked to part with something.... Pure Terror. As if I am about to lose something. It was emotionally draining and by the end of the night we were both ready to just collapse. The next day I was driving back down to St George and realized my mind was still on all the stuff in the "yard sale" pile. This is what started me back in on some thoughts that have been racing through my mind for weeks and then the remainder of this weekend. I have come to several of these moments in my life where a choice needs to be made. In the past I have been very Black and White about these choices. Very this way or that way! And I realized this weekend I am about to do the same thing again. Not with my stuff which triggered all these emotions.. But with the relationships in my life. I feel blessed that I recognized this before I made a "Black or White" decision because I love what my life has become. And instead of shifting it yet again just because I see myself in a fork in the road... I am going to add to my life instead. I know I am being very vague on what I mean by all this.. But the point isn't really what the situation is rather then the lesson I learned this weekend. Why shift away from a good thing when I can embrace many good things. There are times when I think "Here comes a fork in the road" where I have to make a choice. When really it is an opportunity for me to take both roads at the same time because all along they are running right next to each other. The trap I am going to start to be more aware of is how I justify in my mind the road I rather take by degrading the other road. It is not necessary and only blocks the truth of what is really there. I am grateful for this blog. To be able to send my thoughts out into the universe! Who knows if any of it makes sense to anyone else. But it makes sense to me, so that should count for something."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-16902354117519834852010-03-28T10:28:00.000-07:002010-03-28T10:42:17.144-07:00It's Sunday and I have Ants in my PantsGinger Writes "What to do today? So many options, its days like today that drive me a little batty. Shane is driving today so I am down in St. George, but I am tempted to head up to Cedar City to start sifting through the garage for our yard sale that we are trying to put together for May. I am amazed at how much I have purged out of my life but also amazed at how much is still sitting in boxes. Over the last four years I have purged tons of stuff with each move and have donated a lot to Good Will (Deseret Industries for the Utah crowd) When I first moved here I had an entire U-Haul full of stuff. I am certain it is cut in half by now. To save money (In our pursuit to be debt free) Shane and I decided to get rid of the storage unit I had most of my stuff in and use his garage instead. So now we are planning to do another “Purge” of items (Both his and mine) and put the money aside into a fund to use for new furniture someday. My black furniture that I have had for over 10 years is being used in the Nixon’s house and I have to say it has held up beautifully considering all the moves it has been through. 6 total. Every time I tell people how old it is they are amazed. So, when the time comes to sell it, I am sure it will raise a few dollars for our cause. <br /><br />Andrea and I worked out this morning and did the Kempo X DVD. I have decided it’s one of my favorites now. It’s mostly boxing moves but I feel all sweaty and accomplished when we are done. I am very uncoordinated and have not yet gotten the moves down very smoothly. But hopefully over time I will start to do better at it. Tomorrow will be the start of the 3rd week. I haven’t lost much weight yet But my pants feel like they are fitting better. I am hoping the theory that muscle weighs more than fat is what is really going on. Hahaha. Time will tell. I am sure it is also not helping that I haven't shifted my diet much. One step at a time. Shane took some before pictures for me last week. I am thankful because I need some motivation. The fact that my back is almost back to normal has been the biggest motivation. If I don't lose one pound and have the new found flexibility that has come with this program.. I will still be happy.<br /><br />Alright, so time to go take a shower and head up to Cedar. I will work on the garage, throw in some laundry , work on a new side business that my sis has me involved in (More to come on that) and then make Shane some dinner. (2nd time in two weeks, that’s a record of some sort.)"Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-91581268775973920892010-03-26T06:08:00.000-07:002010-03-26T06:32:40.522-07:00P90X update and stuff5 ish in the morning is starting to not be so bad. Like anything else it takes some getting use to. Day 12 of P90X and I am feeling pretty good. My back is doing much much better. (Thanks John) There is still a tightness that is there that has prevented me from fully doing the AB ripper X portion of the program but I have been modifying the moves to help relieve the strain. I am determined within the next few weeks I will get through all the moves on that particular portion. The part that has really hit me hard is the stretching of my legs. I am not to a place "yet" where I can keep my legs straight when I sit on the floor and reach for my toes. That really bothered me and has motivated me to do extra stretching every day with my legs. I can remember when I was a kid and all of that came so easy.. At the time I thought nothing of it and took for granted the flexibility of my body. I am determined to get back to that place but this time be grateful and aware how easy it is to lose it. <br /><br />I have not fully modified my diet but am still going strong with staying caffeine free. I have slipped a few drinks of Shane's sodas here and there but for the most part this is the longest I have gone without it and I am pretty proud of it. I have been trying for well over 6 years to cut it out of my diet and have failed every time. Not fully sure what shifted this time but getting through the withdrawals and feeling the way I do now has made a big difference in not wanting to go back to it. <br /><br />My dear friend Laura is coming in a week and a half from Wisconsin to visit.. I am pretty excited about it and keep getting gitty. We are going to head over to Zions and do some hiking around. I just love that place and its going to be fun to hang with her there. I have had family out this way recently but its going to be awesome to have a wisonsinite who I have been friends with for over 16 years out to visit. <br /><br />Well, Till next time... Hope everyone is doing well.Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-3007894110435239262010-03-22T19:18:00.000-07:002010-03-22T19:20:00.338-07:00A Weekend of ReflectionGinger Writes “Shane and I had a blast this weekend. Lots of good meaningful talks and sharing with good friends. (We definitely wore ourselves out) Every day I spend with him I fall more in love with him. I have never been so grateful in my life to be given a second shot at love in this way. I have learned so much in the last four years and grateful for the time I have had alone to learn who I am and what it is I want and need out of life. I am in a solid place and somehow God has brought me together with someone who was seeking the same answers. It’s indescribable. It is no secret that my work helped me through these 4 years and will continue to help me through many more. It is a combination of God and TurningLeaf that has prepared me to Love myself unconditionally and in turn to have someone in my life who loves me just the same.<br /><br />Reflection can be a rewarding process. I took this 3 day weekend since Shane had today off and I finally got the opportunity to spend more then one evening with him. I have also needed some time away from work to refresh and renew my spirit. There are AMAZING shifts going on at TurningLeaf, yet even good stress is still stress… right? I have wanted to shift into a new way of seeing it all. I was reminded of a few things over the weekend. I am surrounded by the most amazing people in the world, both in my personal life and my work life. Which, at times, spill over into each other. It is true I would not have it any other way. I have come to realize that I have everything I need in this moment in life. Not to say there is nothing left to work towards or to look forward to. But having this weekend to relax and ponder has helped me notice the small things in life and the small things about the people I work with that I truly adore. At work, I am surrounded by something I feel is rare. We all have our strengths and we have our weaknesses yet we all love each other dearly through hard times and good times. We each seek the good in each other and share a common goal of growing the company to help others… and to grow within ourselves at the same time. I laugh everyday and even sometimes cry. And through it all I am loved just the same. Over the years many of our clients have also become dear friends. I look forward to the smiling faces and the stories of growth that come as a result of the services we offer at the facility. It can be hard work but at the end of the day I sleep well knowing that I am apart of something bigger than myself surrounded by many who see life the same way I do. <br /><br />Shane and I agreed when we first created this blog to limit our discussion on politics, religion and work. (NOT Sports as Shane will lead you to believe… so watch for more sports blogs from him) So I will limit my future blogs from this subject of my work. But we would both agree that it is defiantly the tools we have learned and will continue to learn that have kept us feeling strong and safe in our relationship. And for THAT I am eternally grateful I work there and will continue to work there for a long time to come. And I feel fulfilled and renewed for the new shifts moving our way.”Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-5413906013345067192010-03-22T17:38:00.000-07:002010-03-22T17:55:53.956-07:00SpoiledShane Writes "Ginger and I had a very action-packed and fun weekend that left me with a migraine for the better part of the day Monday.<br /><br />The weekend started with a cold but very fun camping trip in the Virgin River Gorge with some good friends. We took a little hike Saturday evening as the sun was going down and built a campfire and grilled some hot dogs. When we woke in the morning, the wind was blowing and the cold cut right through. We broke camp and went to Mesquite for a little lunch in a park, then said goodbye to our party. Then, off to St. George to get cleaned up and go to a very yummy dinner consisting of ribs, sweet potatoes, shrimp pasta salad and asparagus. The dinner was shared with a very awesome family whom we are grateful to be in the presence of. <br /><br />Next, time to separate Kobe from his buddy Duke and head home. Needless to say, a warm and comfy bed was very welcoming. That is, until 3:00 in the morning when I awoke with the worst migraine I have had in about ten years. The rest of the morning was filled with very short micro-naps interrupted by intense burst of pain and nausea. I finally rolled out of bed at about 11:00 and came out to join Ginger. The couch was my destination for the next few hours. But, I was not eager to get off the couch as I was being spoiled. Ginger rubbed my headache away and got me lunch. Then, we just sat around and relaxed. And to top it off, she made me a very delicious dinner-Chicken Alfredo over angel hair pasta and Texas toast. This is the first opportunity I have had to sample Ginger's home cookin' and I must say-I am in LOVE!!! I sit here and type this with a full belly and a diminished migraine. Just don't tell her that. Maybe I can get another head rub out of this :~)Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-29442441922980825572010-03-16T21:38:00.000-07:002010-03-16T22:02:41.108-07:00Bring it on!!!Ginger writes "I am excited that Shane and I will be going camping this weekend and even more excited that my back will be fairly up for the trip. Shane has been working like a crazy man the last few weeks and this trip will be so good for us. First camping of the new year!! We will be staying at a camp ground in the Gorge, which is so amazingly beautiful. It is only about a 20 min drive from St George which is one of the many reasons I love this place so much! I am also excited to spend some time with Shane's good friends. I have heard lots of stories of good times, it will be nice to create some new memories with them all. We will post some pics for everyone's enjoyment. <br /><br />My P90X adventures continue. I am doing it with my Best Friend and since she has to take her son to school and head into work by 745 (or maybe it's 7:15) We have been getting up really early to get our hour "plus" workouts in. I am indeed impressed by the program. It has kicked my butt so far, but well worth it! I know I will make it the full 90 days and excited to see the results. They suggest on the program to take some before and after pics, so I will see if Shane can help me with that this weekend. One week in shouldn't be to bad. Maybe if I feel brave enough I will post them after the 90 days. I am not sure I will have the same type of results as on TV because I am not following the nutrition guide but I am aware of what I am putting in my mouth and drinking lots and lots of water. I have noticed that some of the before and after pictures of the people on the website are after they do 2 to 5 rounds of this program. So, that was a little discouraging... BUT the fact that I am even exercising in the first place is pretty exciting for me. <br /><br />Ok, off to bed. I shouldn't be up this late in the first place. Workout in 6 hours. At least I get to take a nap afterward. My BFF doesn't, so I refuse to complain."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-64515333104896625622010-03-12T09:39:00.000-08:002010-03-12T10:13:12.844-08:00Help me stay accountableGinger Writes "The weekend is quickly arriving; I thought I would take a few moments before I start my official work day to write out a few updates. My back is still giving me trouble. In fact it has felt like it is getting worse. BUT I was reassured today by Dr. Sorenson that this is normal. (I noticed I have been spelling his name wrong, he is not related to Shane and it is spelled “SON” at the end, Shane is “SEN”) So anyway, he gave me some exercises to start doing to help build up my back. And in a few weeks I should be feeling some great relief. I will be starting that right away.<br /><br />Katy (My Niece) is coming up this weekend from Vegas, Shane and I are meeting them in Mesquite tonight and she is staying for the weekend. I am pretty excited!!! We are hoping to hit a few movies. Her passion for the movies seems to be similar to mine and for that I am very grateful. It will be a blast. I was planning to wait until Monday to start the Power 90 program (Still waiting on the bands in the mail) but I might see if she wants to start with me for the few days she is here. I am pretty motivated, even more today when I got on the scale this morning and hit my all time high weight of 185. I know it is all relative to each person, but for me this is unacceptable. The last time I hit 184 it through me into a workout kick and I lost 35lbs. So, I am determined this will be the same. It’s no wonder I am having back issues. My body is yelling at me for not taking care of myself.<br /><br />So here is my question of the day. Why is it when we know what we need to do to feel better, we put it off. Why do we continue to maintain old habits we know slowly kills us everyday? I wish I had the answer to this question because there are so many things in my life that fall under this category. I finally feel like I am starting to recognize them and fight to shift them, unlike before when I knew, but justified all the reasons to ignore them. Like drinking Caffeine when its proven to be one of the worst things for PCOS. But yet even now with Caffeine, my mind is still fighting me. Everyday I am craving a Diet Coke, when my physical symptoms are now passed. Those types of things are psychological. It is amazing just how powerful our minds are. The last 4 years I have overcome a lot of emotional triggers in my life, and feel relieved to be more grounded emotionally. So now I am going to take on the physical stuff with the same motivation. The fun part now, is I have Shane to do this with me… The timing of him coming into my life can only be described as "God Sent". So, Bring it ON!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />I will keep you all updated on the progress. Like I said in my first blog, sharing is what will keep me accountable so if you have read this far… thanks a million times over for your support!! If I have learned one thing in the last few years, it is to NOT keep your struggles to yourself. Your family and friends are waiting to help."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-48727867385029347722010-03-11T17:19:00.000-08:002010-03-11T17:20:03.540-08:00A blog from Shane - Month of MarchShane writes: "After receiving numerous inquiries as to why I have yet to contribute to this blog, I have decided to make my first entry. After mulling it over, I decided a good thing to blog about would be the month of March.<br /><br />What's not to love about March? Old man winter is finally making his lethargic exit and God's creations are springing back to life. It is nice to wake in the morning and hear the cheerful song of birds as they migrate their way to northern climates. Who doesn't love to look outside to see the sun shining on the green mountains and red rock of Southern Utah? And what is not to love about college basketball in full swing? It's March Madness time and I am giddy with the prospect of winning the bracket challenge yet again. I am the reigning champ and have absolutely no intention of passing the crown this year, although Ginger or my parents will try to make you believe one of them will be able to dethrone the King of the Brackets. As I write this blog, I am firmly perched in front of the TV doing some last minute studies on particular teams of interest.<br /><br />Oops...I realize now that I told Ginger I would not write about politics or sports in our blog. Sorry sweetie. I had to get that jab in there. Alright, time to shift focus on other reasons to be excited about March. When you reside in an area of immense beauty such as we do, it excites the mind and heart to think of the plenty of adventures that await us in our own backyard. Will Angel's Landing finally be conquered by a man with a great fear of heights? Ginger seems to think so. We shall see. March and April are among my favorite times to hike in Zion. It is not too hot but warm enough, and the tourists have yet to make their exodus to our heaven on earth.<br /><br />I am excited to take Kobe to Navajo Lake and do some camping. I am relieved that there are not many feirce storms remaining in the season to interrupt a nice day at work. And I am antsy to get a little spring cleaning done in the house and the yard.<br /><br />It is definitely a great time of year. Grass starts to turn green, flowers start to bloom, the smell of BBQ fills the air and children playing and laughing brings joy to the heart. And this nasty virus called cabin fever starts to get quelled. Finally, Spring is here!!! Stay tuned for what I hope to be frequent posts exhibiting our passion for life."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-41015675387608326292010-03-09T19:02:00.000-08:002010-03-09T19:05:49.506-08:00Answers for the Lower Back PainGinger Writes "I finally have some answers for my back issues. Today I was having a really bad morning with back pain and was thankful I had an appointment scheduled to have some x-rays done. I took them to Dr. Sorensen (A dear friend of mine who is also my chiropractor) and he explained to me I have two compressed disks and arthritis in my back. He showed me on the x-rays and I was at least relieved to know it’s not all in my head. I wish I could remember word for word how he explained it all. I remember him saying the disks were at about 40% of the space that it should be at. I have to say, I am a little frustrated to hear I have arthritis. At 29? For Real? But the good news is this is all treatable. I am going to be seeing him 3 times per week for the next 4 weeks in addition to starting the power 90 program. I have been waiting to start until I knew exactly what was going on, but John (Dr. Sorensen) gave me the go and explained it was a great program to help me build my core muscles to support the shifts he will be making over the next 4 weeks. So…. Monday is the day I will be starting. No more putting it off. I am sure by then my bands will have arrived in the mail. Watch out Shane… I am about to catch up to ya… We are well on our way to active lives."Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1839138297248027595.post-30651551109011104122010-03-05T23:50:00.000-08:002010-03-08T10:35:45.919-08:00My Power 90 (P90X) thoughtsGinger writes "Shane and I have been on this kick to get in shape. So far he is doing very well. Almost every day he is texting me that he is off to the gym. And me.. Not so well. I definitely have good intentions but I have not yet taken the plunge. I would like to say I have a good excuse, like my back still causing me all sorts of heart ache yet I know that its my lack of exercise which has caused my back to give me so much grief to begin with. On my trip back to Milwaukee I borrowed Josh and India's power 90 DVD's. So today after yet another trip to the Chiropractor and a decision to get some X-rays done.. I also decided to get on the P90X website and order up some equipment. (Bands and a heart monitor wrist watch) I am determined to start this program and work to be more healthy. I want to do lots of hiking this spring and this back issue has to go!!! So stay tuned, I plan to start as soon as my items arrive... And this blog is going to be my way to hold myself accountable. If I can quit Caffeine, this shouldn't be so hard... Right??"Shane and Gingerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05009850617491198893noreply@blogger.com0