My Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy, Life!

And my life will change...forever ;-)

2009-10-02T22:51:00.001-07:00

It's after midnight. I can't sleep a wink. I know I should be sleeping right now. I should be enjoying every amount of sleep that I can get and enjoy, since my nights of peaceful sleeping will soon come to an end. ;-) But alas, I'm too excited to sleep.

My life is about to change. I'm about to fall in love all over again - not only with my husband but with my new son. Troy Robert Ka Haku Justus is about to enter this world, enter our home, and enter our hearts, forever. His precious birth mother, Nicole, is in the hospital at this very moment, and will be induced this day at 8am. How appropriate that this miracle will happen on General Conference Weekend, when the spirit of the Lord comes into the world through the mouthes of his Prophet and Apostles. I couldn't have asked for this to happen on a better weekend. This precious little miracle coming into our lives, and we owe it all to Nicole and her family. We owe it to the birth father and his family, especially his beautiful mother who has become like a second mother to me. What would we do without them? We love them all so much. We've only known them for a month or so, but we love them unconditionally. There are no words to possibly describe how we feel at this time. What can I say? Bob and I have yearned for children for many years now. Our hearts have ached, our empty arms ache because there is no child in our home, no one to love or spoil. We love each other so much, and have nobody to take care of except ourselves. Then this precious family finds us, and chooses us, and they will eternally bless our lives by giving us their special child. What sacrifice! What love! They are simply amazing people to do this for us, for this little baby boy. They are amazing!!! The love and gratitude that fill my heart for them cannot be properly expressed. I am so happy, I can't explain my emotions. Yes, my life is about to change, and for the better.

These are the feelings of an adopting parent. ;-) They are unexpressable...

Thank you so much God for this gift. Thank you Nicole for this precious miracle. I promise to love and cherish OUR son forever. We will always care for Troy. He will be the top priority in our lives. We will love him more than you will ever know. He will know about YOUR love and your sacrifice that has blessed him with a good home, and with an eternal family. I promise that he will love and admire you, his birth parents. He will know what you have done for him, and one day he will take you into his arms and thank you for giving him his life, and his parents, The JenBob. ;-)

Thank you to Bob for being the most wonderful husband - you will be an amazing father like this world has NEVER known. Only I will know of the privilge it's been to be your wife. And finally, to my son, I love you, Troy Robert. You are the miracle I've been praying for, aching for, and I cannot wait for the moment when I can hold you in my arms, look into your eyes, and call you my baby boy.

I am so blessed. God is good.

Happy Happy Joy Joy~

The ramblings of a Super Gorgeous husband...

2009-06-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Just had to share this post that my husband left on his blog to celebrate our thirteen glorious years of marriage. He is clever... he is cute. He is also loopy and insane. You gotta love him!!

The Beginning of "I Love You…"
“We don’t know the moment when love begins,But we always know the moment when love ends.”-Harris Telamacher(L.A. Story)

If you haven’t seen the movie, do yourself a favor and see it. That’s it. That’s my plug for the film “L.A. Story.” I won’t say anymore about the movie. I would like to address this quote, as it is one of many that this movie offers for those who listen while watching movies.Since I first heard Steve Martin’s voiceover lay down these words, I thought that they contained infinite truth and abundant wisdom. That was before I fell in love with Jen. Now I know that with some love, one can mark the beginning, and hopefully never the end.

I had seen her, watched her talking with friends, and I couldn’t help but notice how she looked in her pink jumper. What can I say but that I had a bad case of the smitten kitten? But that was not love. Smite, even deep smite of the heart, does not equal love. Only love is love…accept no substitutes.

I remember the time and place when the smittenness of my heart morphed into love. It was across a Subway counter in Littleton, Colorado. Jen worked there, and I had a part time job hanging out and watching Jen work. Now before you call me a filthy stalker, let me just say that we were dating, and I had to spend as much time with her as I could because I had plans to leave the country for a few years. So it’s cool…simmer down…she was ok with it.

Like I said, she was working and I was watching her work. In a lull, a brief moment, we leaned across the counter to sneak a little kiss. It was a peck on the lips, nothing more, but it unlocked a new world. Everything changed, and I realized it at that moment. As we parted, I wanted to tell her that I loved her. I mean I really loved her and I knew it.

Before I could even draw breath to give power to those words, she said it first. I was relegated to an “I love you, too.”

It felt lamely given, but held no less truth than the phrase “I love you” without the “too” attached to it. That was it. That was the beginning of the “I love you…more” war. Though my “more” came out strangely sounding like “too”, it was true.

“We don’t know the moment when love begins,But I do know, Jen, that I love you more.”-Bob Justus(Just now…this blog)

Happy Father's Day, Daddy...

2009-06-21T15:38:00.000-07:00

I have a special daddy that I love...

He is a barrell of sunshine. Whenever he walks into a room, the dark clouds fade away and the sun shines with his smile.

He is funny. When he is around, there is light heartedness and nobody in the room is frowning.

He is spiritual. He taught me about God, and helped me to gain a strong testimony of my Savior. He radiates with the spirit.

He is unique. His name is Verne, and nobody in this world laughs like him. ;-) He has talents and shares them with the world. Everyone longs to be his friend.

He is a comfort. When I was afraid, he'd smile and hold my hand, and I knew right away that everything was going to be okay.

He is my best friend. I love him with all my heart. No words could possibly describe him. He is my daddy. ;-)

I have another Daddy. He is now in heaven. Not a day goes by when I do not picture his face next to Bob and I, and I miss him so much it hurts. I long for the day when our eyes will meet again, we will hug and never have to be seperated. Our relationship is eternal. I love you JD Justus. ;-)

I have yet another Daddy. He sent me down to earth. He loved me so much that He sent His only begotten Son to pay for my sins. He is perfect, and He blesses me every day of my life, even though I am not perfect. I also long for that day when our eyes will meet, we will hug and never again be seperated because our relationship is also eternal. I love my God, my Heavenly Father. Because of Him, I am a happy happy joy joy girl....

I love my husband so much, and I long for the day when he will become the father of my children. Then someday they can bring him breakfast in bed instead of me... ;-)

I love my fathers... Happy Father's Day... ;-)

Grateful for Babies, families, Tornadoes, and Size 8's

2009-06-08T16:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am indeed grateful for all of these things that were somhow included in my Sabbath Day Activities yesterday. ;-)

First of all, hubby and I woke up early to attend the blessing of a new baby - belonging to my chiropractor and his adorable wife. They are such wonderful friends, and they now have two beautiful baby boys, only a few months apart. (Hey, they're newleyweds, what can they say? LOL~) They are such a unique family - part Catholic and part Mormon, with their strong faith in Christ bonding them together. I'm happy to be included in their lives. After the sacrament meeting, they treated us - along with more of their friends and family, to an amazing breakfast at a small restaurant before my hubby and I were on our way to a family luncheon with Mom Justus and crew. ;-)

That's where we were when the Tornado struck down...only three miles away from where we were standing. My husband got amazing photos, and we were completely mesmorized by this incredible sight. Thank goodness nobody was badly hurt or injured - it ended up touching down on a mall, flipping over cars and doing significant damage. It was incredible. Mom Justus was so cute as she ordered all of us to come inside. ;-) But we couldn't move, for that would mean tearing our eyes away from the sight of mother nature. It was spectacular!!! I always wanted to be a storm chaser when I was young...and I still find myself enthralled by Meteorology. I think it's time to take a class!!

We had slight hail damage to the top of our car, and a crack in our windshield, and from the size of this hail in my hand, you can see why. ;-) It was amazing!!!!

Anyway, the electricity went out, and we couldn't light candles due to Grandma's oxygen. So we ate by the light of the window. Personally I thought it was wonderful. The storm ended, the electricity came back on....we visited a bit longer - then hubby and I were on our way to another family party. My brother in law celebrating his 20th - I mean, his birthday. ;-) We watched TV with them, enjoyed cake and ice cream and more partying with my side of the family. And with all of this fun, I was struting around happily enjoying my new jeans - my size 8's - which I haven't been able to wear since my early 20's. ;-) Bob and I have had certain pants hanging on our walls for months which we've called our goal pants. Yeah....we were both wearing our goal pants yesterday, which actually have a happy spell placed on them, I dunno. But we were kinda giddy! Anyway, I am extra proud of my hubby and all the work that he's done. He inspires me to do better.

Yes, I am truly grateful for all of these things, my family and all of my many blessings. Life is good ;-) And now I can begin my new life - trying to acheive my new goals, staying at home to take care of my house and FINISH MY NOVEL!! Write...write...and then write somemore. ;-) I'm also going to pick up a couple of books on meteorology. (Am I spelling that write, I mean, right??)

Yeah... life is good!!! Wouldn't you agree?? Happy Happy Joy Joy!!

Congrats to my handsome nephew "Little Bob"

2009-05-25T20:06:00.000-07:00

Little Bob's "Bill Parcells" moment ;-)

Little Bob opens his presents.

...and gets lots of affection from his adorable sisters, Jordin and Jordan (long story, don't ask right now, LOL~)

Wow, what a trip!! I am soooooo happy that my husband and I were able to fly to the East Coast and be there for our nephew, Porter, who celebrated a very special event in his life - his high school graduation. ;-) I cannot believe he is already a young man. It seems only yesterday he and his sister were riding around on my back playing "Horsie." And now, look at him. He is so handsome and so much fun to be around. I am impressed by him, his knowledge and his sense of humor. I always called him "Little Bob" because he reminds me of my husband, not only in looks but in their sense of humor, the entertainment factor. ;-)

We had such a great time. Our family flew into Baltimore, drove into West Virginia, spent an entire day riding the metro and playing around in Washington DC, visiting with family and friends, and sightseeing. We walked, and walked and walked and walked. It was such a fun trip - too short for all the fun things we wanted to do, but fun nonetheless. Annie rode on the back of Greg's motorcycle. Greg accidently backed into our rental car (LOL~) Porter got ice and water dumped on his head by a bunch of his girl friends. We lost the key to our hotel which had twenty dollars in it (ouch!), and the Nuggets lost game three. But it was all around a fantastic weekend, one I will never forget. I am lucky to be a part of this incredible family. I love them all, with all my heart. More pictures to come...

Happy Happy Joy Joy!!!

Celebrating mothers...

2009-05-09T21:45:00.000-07:00

......and I have the best mother's ever. My mother who gave me life is one of the most important people in my life, and not to mention my best friend. The mother who gave life to the man who is currently giving me life - also priceless!! ;-)

This was a glorious weekend to celebrate both my "mommies." We took my mom out to a seafood restaurant with my other family members and had a fun party, and not to mention the best food ever! I stared at each of my family members sitting around the large table, and my heart filled with great love and gratitude for each of them. I couldn't possibly get enough of them, nor could I take enough pictures. If it wasn't for my mother, we wouldn't all be siting there together. ;-) I love her for that, and so much more. Thanks Ma!

And today an eternal family was made at the Denver Colorado Temple as my mother in law was sealed to her mother and her baby sister for time, and all eternity. It was a special day for celebration, and celebrate we did. I couldnt get enough of them either. If it wasn't for my mother in law and her family, my precious husband would not be here today. And without him, I would be nothing. That's all I have to say about that. It was a beautiful day together and I will never forget it. Thanks Ma!

See how blessed I am?? ;-) Life doesn't get any better than this. If Heavenly Father gives me the priveledge and joy of being a mother someday, I hope and pray I will be as good a mother as my own mommies, and all the other good mommies I know. ;-) And that's all I have to say abou that.

Biggest Loser Goosebumps

2009-05-05T21:18:00.001-07:00

Bob and Jillian - the Biggest Loser stars. I love them so much, especially Jillian.

I've had goosebumps all night long. I absolutely love this show!!! I watched it alone while Bob attended Scouts. And I watched it again when Bob came home. Yeah, I didn't make it to bed on time, but that's okay. I'm still in tears and goosebumps over the whole thing, and I just have to say how much I love watching this inspiring show. The contestants have been fun to watch, and I've been so jealous of their progress. I've never been so inspired to lose weight as much as I have this past year, thanks to the show. THANKS BIGGEST LOSEER!!!

I've somehow managed to lose over 30 pounds myself, and I hope only to continue on a downward spiral. ;-) My husband and brother in law have also lost 20 pounds each, and I am so proud of them!! We are determined in this house to be healthy and happier. Life is good.

Quick summary: I've been having a really great month with family and friends, and getting my Spring cleaning done. The house is organized and fun!! I've decided to take a huge risk and leave my full time job in order to complete writing my novel and work part time somewhere down the line, hopefully a bookstore. I'm not sure if I have what it takes to be a writer, but I'm going to try. There's gotta be talent buried somewhere inside of me, right? And I'll never know unless I try. So here I come, and baby - keep your fingers crossed for me.

"Song of the Piano Man" - coming soon to a bookstore and library near you. ;-)

I've also really gotten into Basketball these days - the Denver Nuggets are playing in the playoffs and they are doing awesome!! They've been fun to watch. So GO NUGGETS! And I don't mean chicken.

And have I told you how much I love the Biggest Loser? Well, I do. And with that, it's time to end this quick entry and work out! hee, hee! Later!! ;-)

Wishing General Conference Weekend could last forever...

2009-04-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

My new favorite apostle: Elder Jeffrey R. Holland ;-)

With the passing of my old favorite, Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, and after carefully pondering all the talks presented to me over the past weekend, I've decided that his talk about the Savior affected me the most. ;-) Not that all of the other talks weren't great, mind you. And not that I don't love all of the other apostles. But for some reason, I always tend to have my favorites of everything I see in my life LOL~ Anyhow, he has risen to the top spot in my heart. I saw him live at a Woman's Conference in Provo one year, and his strong testimony has remained with me ever since. He is the man! ;-)

I love being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I look forward every year to the two General Conference broadcasts that we get to watch on TV, broadcasted live from Salt Lake City. With these talks from our Prophet and Apostles, my life is truly blessed, and I walk away from the experience feeling happy and uplifted, like I can accomplish anything. It's a wonderful feeling!! I will make it last forever.

I love my Savior! I love my family and my friends. I love this gospel, and I will strive to live my life so that I may be worthy someday to gain eternal life. ;-) ;-)

Follow the prophet!! He knows the way, and this picture shows us how he knows! ;-)
Happy Happy Joy Joy!!

As the years go by...

2009-03-28T21:14:00.001-07:00

I keep geting younger and younger and even younger ;-) And my handsome husband keeps getting cuter and cuter - and even more cute!!! I had such a wonderful birthday today, thanks to him and our amazing families. There are no words to express how how I feel. I am the happiest, most lucky girl in the entire world. And that's all I have to say about that... for now, anyway.

Happy Happy Joy Joy!!!!

More photos and stories to come. ;-)

You gotta love March ;-)

2009-03-25T19:21:00.000-07:00

Rachel and I... sisters and buddies for eternity!!

Here we are, gathered in our home on the night of the Oscars. ;-) Yeah, we had fun. I think I ate too much! And I think it's time to buy some new furniture so that we'll have room for people to actually sit when they come over.

March never fails to be a busy and fun month. I guess that's my excuse for not blogging so much this month - busy, busy, and even more busy! March has always a month of parties and fun for the JenBob. We celebrate four different birthdays between both of our families, and of course we have to have a special party for each and every one. ;-) After all, the worth of all souls are great in the sight of the Lord, right?

These next pictures were taken at my mother in law's birthday celebration. She turned 30. ;-)

Mom and Annie... ;-)

Larry and me. (Larry and I, rather) I am so proud of my brother in law, we call him "Bubba." Don't we look like brother and sister? I've always been so happy to be called his sister, and he has always been such a special friend to me. This month he's begun a diet program called Slim for Life. Yeah, I'm super proud of him! We've always tried to encourage him to loose weight. Only this time he didn't need any encouragement, he took the initiative himself! ;-) I know he is going to do this. And I can't wait to watch his progress.

More parties and pictures to come!!!!

Another cold, February night...

2009-02-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

...and here we are, chillin' at home in our usual, comfortable positions: In the living room with our lap tops. Bob sitting at the floor near my feet, and me on the couch, wrapped in my favorite Elvis blanket. ;-) We're either writing in our books, playing cards or goofing around on Facebook- which includes chatting with friends, kidnapping, or farming. Routine...routine...yawn, yawn, and we're getting kinda bored being stuck in the house.

Is it Spring yet??

This month has dragged on and on...and not much has been going on, which is why I haven't posted that much. Both hubby and I have been sick, but luckily I didn't have to miss any work. Unfortunately, he missed a week. Before we got sick, we had a special assignment for ourselves - and that was the fun task of watching all of the movies that have been nominated for Academy Awards this year, and picking our favorite one. I love going to the movies and ordering a huge ice-cee!! It never gets boring. So far we've seen four movies of the five: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (thumbs up!), Frost Nixon (thumbs up!), Slumdog Millionaire (Ten thumbs up, my favorite!!!), and The Reader (Thumb not quite so far up, good movie with fun plot, but way too much of Kate Winslet naked! More than I needed to see.. LOL) Now we have only one movie left that we hope to see this weekend: Milk. It will make watching the Oscars this coming Sunday so much more fun! ;-) Don't ask me why I enjoy watching this so much - I love to see the glamourous Hollywood actors/actresses come out in their fancy clothes so I can judge them. Kinda fun.

So... I got a new calling in my church a couple of weeks ago. I was called to serve as the Stake Primary Secretary, meaing that I will be in charge of all the NURSERIES in the stake. (Wasn't I just released from the nursery? LOL~) Nobody heard me when I said I'd like a break from other people's kids. ;-) Okay, so I was only slightly overwhelmed with this new task, as you can tell, but I accepted the call anyway because I know it's what the Lord wants me to do. I can never get away from the kids and the nursery, and I guess I never will. Must be God's fun way of letting me be a parent - observing other people's children from the outside looking in, and being an influence for good this way. I love the kids, and look forward to serving them this year. I also hope I can serve my husband and my family by giving us a child of our own. Still crossing my fingers on that one! ;-)

Anyway, not much more going on. We got rid of the birds, finally!! ;-) The cat is certainly bored now, but it's alot more quiet and peaceful up here. I won't miss them much...although I'm sure I'll think of Tahoe once in awhile. (Thanks to Dan!!) Oh, and we had a family dinner last Sunday night with Bob's family, (thanks for the lasagna, Larry!) and we are eagerly planning our trip out to West Virginia this May - to watch my nephew Porter graduate from high school. I can't wait to travel there and see Greg's family again - we've missed them so much. Porter has grown up so fast - he is more handsome than ever. It will be a great time. Annie stayed with us awhile that evening and played around on facebook under my profile. We played a joke on Greg and told him she had skipped a period. Meanwhile, he freaks out at the idea that his younger, single sister is suddenly pregnant, and we tell him that she went straight from Math to Science. Yeah, it was pretty funny. Guess you had to be there.

Okay, enough for now, you'll all caught up to date. HAPPY HAPPY JOY JOY till next entry... ;-)

Happy Superbowl Sunday!

2009-02-01T18:03:00.001-08:00

...and not looking very good for the Arizona Cardinals, unfortunately. I really wanted them to win the superbowl this year. However, it's looking more like Pittsburgh will take the title. Bummer!

Oh well, that's the name of the game of football. You win some, you loose some. And I'm trying hard not to cry. I've always been a big baby though, and I never fail to cry when football season is over. Get over it Jen!! ;-) Anyway, today has meant so much more to our family however than just football, the most beautiful sport ever invented. My mother, hubby and I went to church with the O'Brien family so we could participate in special gospel ordinances with them. We are so proud of Grant - for today he was ordained to the office of a priest in the Aaronic Priesthood, and my husband had the honor of laying his hands on Grant's head to confer this upon him. Grant was able to pass the sacrament for the very first time and he did a wonderful job, nervous as he was. Then our little nephew Ryker Jonathan O'Brien was blessed in sacrament meeting by my husband, and Johnna bore her sweet testimony. It was a spirtual day, one I will never forget. Mom went crazy with her camera, so I will add pictures she took this week. Johnna and I were giggling cause we could see the flash of her camera in the halls. My older sister Heidi also came with her family, and we bumped in Laura and Leif and family in the halls who were just finishing their sacrament meeting in the same building. It was so much fun to see everyone.

This is my favorite picture I took of our happy gathering in the church foyer. Look how adorable Ryker looks - I love the way he's looking at cute little Shori.

After church, we met back at Johnna's house where Grant cooked us a fabulous meal and we watched the first half of the superbowl with them. Austinn entertained us with his fun, goofy personality and we took turns holding Ryker. Now we're home watching the final half of the superbowl, rejoicing with the family spirit we feel. My family members are truly the bestest friends I've ever had. ;-)

And with that said, there will be more to come. Tomorrow is Groundhog day and so the month of February begins. Happy Happy Joy Joy!!!

Bob and Grant and the Savior - feeling the love!!

When all I wanted was to make dinner...

2009-01-27T17:25:00.000-08:00

...life dished out other plans. ;-) And it didn't include dinner in any way, shape or form.

So my kitten really loves to watch the parakeet. In fact, she drools all over him, constantly. Tonight I come from work, all ready to surprise my hubby with a real dinner (for a change), and as I'm pondering the situation, I hear a loud crash coming from the den. Horrified, I stare at the bird cage on the ground, all the s**@@ included with it, and the bird attempting to escape it's hungry predator. (Come on Lixy, it's not like I don't feed you or anything!) Meanwhile I can't stop either one of them, and who knows what kinds of words are coming out of my mouth (Please don't tell anyone, Darin! ) Bird is freaking out all over the living room, can't catch him. Can't stop the cat. I trip and fall, and hurt my leg (clutz!!) Got something in my hand, can't remember what it was. I hollar for Darin to come upstairs and catch the darn thing. I'm simply a mess, and to make matters worse, I start to cry. (um, baby!)

Um, why am I writing about this? Not exactly sure. ;-) Just an interesting Sylvester and Tweety moment in my life to remember that I'm sure I'll laugh about later. (Did Sylvester EVER really get to catch Tweety??? I'm not sure.) I feel so horrible for my husband. Instead of coming home to a loving wife with an amazing dinner, he comes home to this freak-a-zoid with messy hair, a sore leg, crying, no dinner, and bird crap all over her. Freezer is broken, and wife can't even fix the ice machine by herself. Hubby shakes his head, asks if wife wants Subway for dinner. Why the heck not? Wife isn't a very good cook anyway. ;-) And even if she were, she doesn't feel like cooking now.

Poor Bob. Husband may think I'm a freak...and hubby just may be right!

Well, thankfully for me, Hubby is kinda a freak too. ;-) In a good, handsome way of course. Here are twenty five random things he wrote about his life on facebook yesterday. He is too darn cute sometimes for his own good, I just had to share:

1. I hate television...and watch it all the time.
2. I like to paint pewter fantasy figurines.
3. My journal is not first person linear, but rather I write scenes from my life...a creative non-fiction extravaganza.
4. I speak fluent Spanish (thanks to 2 years in the Dominican Republic.)
5. I have been living with and treating Multiple Sclerosis since 1998.
6. I listen to classical music in the car to keep me from exploding with road rage.
7. I am happily married to my Jen...the smartest think I have ever done in my life.
8. After 20 years...I am still in school. My current degree program is towards my teaching certificate. I want to teach the fourth grade.
9. I have worked for the past 10 years for AT&T as a circuit design engineer and a circuit tester.
10. I was on the top of the World Trade Center in November of 2000. I didn't know it could be my last time.
11. I love swimming in Waimea Bay.
12. I love sushi, but will only eat it on a coast. How fresh can the raw fish be in landlocked Colorado?
13. I write the word "love" a lot in lists like these.
14. I have a cat named Lixie (actually it's Galaxy) and a beagle named Bella (actuallly its Belatrix.) We had to put our siamese to sleep...her name was Luna. If you can't tell, we name our animals after celestial objects.
15. I like to watch Days of Our Lives because of Josepsh Mascolo. When I saw him playing Stefano DiMera, I knew that they had a real "bad guy" in the line up.
16. My favorite movie, after all these years, is still So I Married an Axe Murderer.
17. I have played every Final Fantasy game that has come out.
18. I have two blue parakeets...does anyone want a bird?
19. I refer to myself as a Judeo-Christian Buddhist, because I think that is good Mormon is all of these things.
20. I sold my dad's home in a weekend last year. I was surprised it didn't stay on the market all summer long.
21. I have decided that I don't like the food so much in Montreal. I expected better.
22. I married a mathematician who has evolved into a writer.
23. Since my father died in 2007 my hair has gone from dark with distinguished silver temples to white with streaks of pepper. Fortuneately Loreal makes my natural color...and every six weeks I apply it. Vanity, thy name is Bob.
24. I am in the worst shape of my life. My aerobic workouts are marred by the fact that MS has weakend my left leg. I tire quickly, and just have a hard time working out. Still, every day, I ride the recumbant bike and workout with light weights and a body ball. 25. My favorite college team is Michigan. Not because I went there. No, but I would if I could drop it all right now and go back to school full time. I have been a Wolverine fan since I was 10. Something about the maize and blue caught my attention. GO BLUE!

(Why didn't he put number 7 first?? kidding...) The way I'm feeling now, I will second number 18 for him!!! Hope everyone's dinner plans go better than mine...

Till next entry~

Burrrrrrrr....it's COLD!

2009-01-27T10:29:00.000-08:00

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow~ And I'm back to work!! ;-)

Bummer...

My heart is full on this Tuesday afternoon. I've come back to work after a very long and glorious weekend of being home where I belong, cuddled in my cozy room with my laptop, completing the final draft of my novel. I can't believe I'm almost finished. I was so happy, I thought I'd died and went to heaven. Then I woke up this morning and realized that it wasn't my reality, and I needed to go back to work.

Bummer...

But life goes on, and money must be made. ;-) It's been FREEEZING cold here in Denver, and I'm really hating it. I've never looked so forward to Spring as I am this time around! (I'm such a wimp, I hate driving in the snow, even in my four-wheel drive "Buddy", as I've named my fore-runner). Anyway, I got a new calling at church on Sunday, a calling that I never knew even existed. I'm the new primary baptismal coordinator for the eight years old that will be baptized this year. I'll get to help plan their program, fill the font and such things as that. Pretty darn cool eh? Not particularly demanding, but so much more relaxing than being in the nursery each week, I must say. I'm also thinking alot about my friends - two of my special friends in particular who got pregnant not too long ago, (who both had their last baby on the exact same day, by the way) and they have both miscarried recently. Bless their hearts. My heart and prayers are with them at this time. As much as I've longed for a child of my own, I'd rather remain childless and lonely than suffer the pain and anguish that both of them have gone through and have been feeling recently. I feel so helpless, wishing I could do something to take away their pain. All I can do is send hugs and kisses their way, and pray... but it's never enough.

Bummer...

Life is too crazy sometimes, isn't it??

Well, not much more to report on this week. I've been spending lots of time on facebook, reconnecting with old friends and being able to see what's going on in everyone's life. It's an addicting sight, and I love it!! Email has never been so easy ;-) Last night Bob and I took the boys over to their mom and Grandmother's house and we had a family home evening dinner. This will be our new tradition this year - once a month gathering for dinner. It's a tradition we should have began months ago. It's a special time to bond, eat and discuss the gospel and our lives with one another. It was a grand, yummy time and I will look forward to all our dinners in the future. ;-)

With thoughts of food, I will end this entry in order to eat my lunch... Happy Happy Joy Joy!!
Till next entry~~

The New President Says...

2009-01-21T08:11:00.000-08:00

HOWZIT!!! ;-) I thought this picture of our new President was pretty cute. Yesterday was the innaugaration day (I don't think I spelled that right LOL~). It will be interesting to see what change will take place in our country now. Whatever the case, he is my new president and as a devoted and proud citizen of the United States of America, I will sustain and support him in this new role. History in the making? Only time will tell.

Congrats Obama!! ;-) Whaz' up, braddah! Aloha and welcome to the presidency.

Just another manic Monday... ;-)

2009-01-19T10:44:00.000-08:00

But Happy Martin Luther King Jr. Day!! ;-) This is always a special day.

Unfortunately, no holiday can be taken today for me. No "marade" for me to attend. Too much work to do here, grrrrr! Nawww, that's okay, I love doing my internet work - when they leave me alone and let me DO my work, that is. Today we had a long, dragged out meeting informing my National group that, pretty much, we are going to be "babysat" for the next gazillion years of our careers here. Not only are we going to have a group "huddle" each and every day, they are going to start tracking EVERYTHING each and every thing we do, including time away from our desks. Twice each day the managers will "drop by" to see how we are doing, at a specific set time. Moan and groan, and gag me!! One of the gals actually rose her hand and said, "What if we have to go to the bathroom?"
Ummm, duh!! ;-) I can't help but laugh at all this. It's going to take more time to track all these things than it would to get our ACTUAL work done.

What are we, FIVE????

Oh well. It cracked me up - hence, this documentation of events for my day. However, the sun is shining outside, I'm earning money, and I still love my job. I can sit at my desk and listen to all my cassette tapes and CD's. I can play on the internet at work, and keep up with all the fun I have on facebook. I have good health, and fun, cute friends around me. Therefore, life is good. ;-) No complaining allowed.

Bob and I bought a new toy over the weekend (as if the TV wasn't enough) but this was a purchase we couldn't resist, and it was nicely priced. We have a new recumbant bike that now sits nicely in the corner of our living room so that we can get our exercise and keep up our health WHILE we watch TV. That's a new rule in the JenBob home - if we can sit on our "tooshies" to watch an hour or more of TV, then we can take turns getting on the bike and saving our lives. Catch my drift?? Yeah, I'm really happy about that. I've lost 31 pounds and I'd like to maintain it, possibly loose more. What more need I say?? ;-)

I'm a happy, happy, joy, joy girl! This year is starting out so well. For the past few months or so, I'd been kinda down, feeling sorry for myself, wondering where my life is going. My head has finally pulled out of those clouds of self-pity, and the future looks brighter. So bright, I gotta wear shades!! Just thought I'd share...

Well, back the ole' grindstone. It's raining men!! Hallelujah!! (Sorry, that song is playing, and I love it LOL~) Till next entry then~

Happy Birthday, Ally...

2009-01-18T09:42:00.000-08:00

...and what a happy birthday party it was, indeed. My niece Ally is already six years old. (I can't believe how quickly the years roll by.) My sister Heidi held a groovy party for her and all her buddies at their home in Parker. Ally was so happy - she got her ears pierced the night before, and she was so proud to show off her new earrings. Here is a picture of Ally blowing out her sparkling candles. Isn't she a cutie? I'm impressed with the beautiful young lady Ally is turning out to be. It was such a blast to watch her and her friends! The kids broke a pinata outside, had cake and ice cream, and danced around in the living room to Ghostbusters. What a riot! Heidi is such a wonderful mother - I hope if I ever have children in this lifetime, that I can be the kind of mother she is. ;-) I took a picture of her surrounded with the kids - she is very good at teaching her kids to send thank you cards to those who bring gifts. I admire her so much. (And look how skinny and pretty she is! Golly, I love my sis!)

This is my favorite picture of Bob, Austinn and Ally at the party. I was happy Johnna and Grant came to the party, and I could see them two days in a row, since we hung out the night before with them at my mother's house. Austinn is four years old now and he loves to hang on his Uncle Bob's arm. (When I asked Austinn how old he was, he says "Four pounds.) Too cute!! ;-)

My sister Johnna really has her hands full now with the new baby. (And who wouldn't love to have their hands full with sweet little Ryker, who is such a good baby and hardly ever cries!?) I thought this was a really cute scene - how my mom fed Johnna so she could eat and feed Ryker at the same time. They crack me up!

It was an awesome party and a perfect way to spend our Saturday afternoon. After the party, we drove my Mom to her piano student's house so she could teach piano. (we were kinda late leaving Heidi's house, therefore my poor mom was late!! Oooops!) Anyway, we proceeded to spend our evening with Johnna, Grant and the boys. We watched a movie at our house, had dinner and spent time together admiring the new TV and playing with the boys in my Barbie room. (ha, ha!) It was the perfect ending to a perfect day, and a wonderful week. Here is a cute picture I took of Johnna and her boys. Golly, they are too cute! I sure use those words alot, don't I? ;-)

I love my family so much. ;-) More to come later! Till next entry~

Time flies when you're having fun...

2009-01-10T11:51:00.001-08:00

...and fun it's been indeed. This week has been so marvelous. I never wanted it to end. Who could ask for anything more? Turning off the alarm clock and sleeping in each morning. I really wanted to hide it in the closet, but I couldn't because then I wouldn't know what time it was in the bedroom. Not like I really cared about time. I had absolutely no cares in the world. It's been wonderful to stay in my home each day, cleaning and organizing, and most importantly writing in my book. (Can you believe I'm on my final draft now? It's about time huh!) If I could live this kind of life that I've had this week - for the rest of my life - I would never have a bad day EVER again. I'm young and gulible, so I really believe that too.

So anyway...on with the more exciting news. On Monday, Bob and I went absolutely crazy! Somebody better put us away for life! But when you do, please promise me that you will keep us in the living room so we can stay sitting in front of this: our new toy, and the newest addition to the JenBob clan...our new bundle of joy...and oh, do we LOVE it!!!

67 inches of glory. =) See how Bob beams with pride??

It is such a beautiful TV. I could stare at it all day long, I'm so in love. (Don't worry, one of them is Bob.) They came on Tuesday to deliver it, and Wednesday for installation. (Thanks Robert and Mike, even though you will never read this, you were both quite entertaining.) So far we've watched all four seasons of LOST, which is one of our favorite TV shows, and just a couple of other movies and football games. (And by the way, YEAH for the GATORS, you guys rock!! I knew you'd beat Oklahoma in the BCS championship game, Tebo, I just knew it!!) Anyway, it's been so much fun. Bob and I can hardly tear ourselves away. And look at all the space we will save in our living room. It's amazing. Yeah, we love it. It's our new bundle of joy that I didnt even need to deliver myself, and better yet, it doesn't cry or keep me up at night. (LOL~ yeah, very funny, Jen) Well, actually, it does scream every hour for me to watch it, and it does kinda keep me from going to bed on time...so I guess that was a pretty bad analogy =) Forgive me, but I've been on vacation, I'm just a little loopy.

Loopy and happy!! But now it's time to get back slowly into the real world of alarm clocks, showering, (ha, ha!) driving myself to work when I'm too tired to think, and wishing I could spend more time at home. At least I have a new fun bill to pay off now - it will certainly make going to work worth it in the end! Life is good.

Till next entry...Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy!!

Proud of my boys...

2009-01-04T12:13:00.000-08:00

...and who wouldn't be? Look how darn cute they are. Studs!!

Darin is on the left, and Larry on the right. Homeboys! Larry got a new suit for Christmas - complements of the Littleton Fifth Ward, and he wore it to church today for the first time. He looked so handsome and so proud, he couldnt stop grinning, and I couldn't help but take a picture of him when we came home. His smile was something I wanted to capture on camera forever. I love both of Bob's brothers so much. They live downstairs in our home, renting out the basement from Bob and I, and together they bring much light, love, laughter, (and not to mention crazy adventures) to our household. It kinda has that "Three's Company" type of feeling except that there are four of us, and nobody is gay. I wouldn't have my life any other way.

The new year continues, and so does the fun & entertaining world of the JenBob. Bob's grandmother ended up in the hospital Friday evening because she was having a difficult time breathing, but thank goodness she is doing okay and will be able to go home soon. Bob and Larry spent time with her on Saturday and gave her a Priesthood blessing. Meanwhile I finished the laundry, cleaned out our fridge and scrubbed it, vacuumed, and worked on organizing the bed room. I also visited the chiropractor and lifted weights while jamming to my favorite "Prince" tunes. =) It was a wonderful day. In the evening, Bob and I had a double date with our friends, Laura and Leif. =) We went out to a fun seafood restaurant and pigged out to our hearts content. We stopped at the new house that L&L will be renting the next year (what a gorgeous house!!) then closed our evening with Richard and Carla and the kids, talking in the living room, playing with the kids, and pigging out on Peanut Butter brittle.

It was snowing and freezing...yet we still stopped for ice cream. I think I have, like, the COOLEST friends ever!!

Here's Bob and I eating with our best friends at Joe's Crabshack. Mmmmmmm!

Isn't life wonderful? Yeah, it's pretty fantastic. I love my life~

Let the vacation celebration begin! Till next entry~
Happy Happy, Joy Joy!!

Having way too much fun...

2009-01-02T17:48:00.000-08:00

...and probably annoying my husband in the process.

One thing I love about the month of January is that I never fail to waste any time working on my New Years Resolutions. First thing this morning I was jumping around the bed, telling my handsome hubby to get up right away so we could hit the gym. After working out for half an hour (I love that eliptical!!) we went to Office Depot so I could buy new paper for my 2009 planner. Oh, and guess who we saw while there -standning in line?? Adele Arakawa, anchor from Channel Nine News - right there in front of us! I watch her every single day and I absolutely love her! Too bad I was all sweaty and dirty, otherwise I would have asked for her autograph. But being as I was, I was much too shy. So we simply admired her from afar, and gave the clerk a hard time about not recognizing her! (Silly boy!!)

Anyway, then we hit Subway for lunch and came home for the day. I love not having to work on Friday! I know Bob wanted to sit and enjoy his afternoon, but I was eager to take the Christmas decorations down outside. Then, after putting together my new planner and writing all the birthdays of my family and friends, for the next three hours I worked on my Barbie/Scrapbook room - getting it all cleaned and organized for the new year. And that was a project that I loved, every single minute of it. My goal was to get rid of anything I hadn't touched over the past year, and put everything else in it's place. This is my room, my special place, the place where my book will finally be completed. It's also the place I keep my Barbies and my scrapbooking things, all the things that make me Jen. =) I kept bothering Bob to come and see all the fun work that I've done! Bob, come and see all the trash I have! Bob, come and see all the things I will be giving away to Goodwill! Come and see! Come and see! Be proud of me, Bob! Love me!

Yeah, I'm annoying. Thank goodness Bob still loves me. At least, that's what he tells me. I hope he truly means it still...LOL~

Okay, so I'm happy because this is the second room I've organized in two days. You gotta love being a dork! I love it! =) I've been collecting Barbies since I was four years old, and now I have exactly 118 Barbies displayed in my room, the last time I checked. You're still thinking dork? LOL~I know, it's true. I'm just a big kid that refuses to grow up. I guess I don't really have to yet, being that I still have no kids of my own LOL~ This house needs one really bad, so for now I will play the role. =)

Yes, I love the month of January. Now it's time to chill and rest from my labors. Okay, so not really much labor for me, but I'm sure it's been for Bob. What's next on the list for tomorrow?? Not sure yet, but I'm sure it's something fun... =)

Yeah... I'm a dork.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXO~

New Years Celebration, The JenBob style

2009-01-01T14:32:00.000-08:00

Aren't we cute? LOL~ Here we are, toasting in the New Year 2009...JenBob style. We didn't have the appropriate wine glasses to use for the toast, I forgotten that I'd given them away last year to my sister. But that's okay, we still had the cheap, plastic hawaii glasses to use, and they were just as good.

And here's my mother and I, after we finished our midnight smooches with our handsome men. She is such a cutie, and undoubtedly has become, just over the past couple years, one of the best friends I've ever had. I can't remember the last New Years Eve that I didn't spend with her. It's been such a rough year for her, first getting the news that she had colon cancer, then spending the entire year fighting it with chemo, radiation, nasty surgery, and then even more chemo. She whispered in my ear last night that her body is completely clean of the cancer, and my heart just melt with the news. After such a long and painful fight, she has won. I can never thank the Lord enough for that. I can never thank the Lord enough for my mother, who has become so much more to me than just a mother...

So....my mom recently met the nicest man that she has been teaching the piano to. His name is Les. (She thinks he looks like Mel Gibson, but I'm leaning more towards Bob's handsome Uncle Fred.) He's very cute, and loads of fun. He loves football too, so I'm really hoping that someday soon he can break my mother in... ;-) So here they are together. Hubba Hubba Mom!! Score!! ;-)

We had so much fun last night, I'll never forget it. Bob and I finally went to sleep at 2am, and woke up to the sound of NO alarm clock!! ;-) We took the tree and other Christmas decorations down ( I didnt cry this year because I'm super glad the holidays are over LOL~) I'm excited for the new year to begin. I had a ball cleaning and doing the laundry. It feels great to be organized. Life is good...

Till next entry, (and there will be more this year, I promise!)
Happy Happy Joy Joy!!

Okay, so we're still up...

2008-12-31T23:59:00.000-08:00

...and partying on this first day of January, 2009. It's hard to sleep knowing that we have the next 13 days off and we don't have ANYWHERE to go! No obligations, no alarm clock, no anything. Just us, taking care of each other and doing the things we want to do.

Ahhhh, what a life. =)

I was looking at my New Years resolutions from last year and smiling out loud. =) Normally I'm disapointed in myself because I don't accomplish those things that I desire throughout the year. Either I get lazy, or forgetfull - or sometimes I just stop caring altogether. Well, this year something different happened. I actually succeeded in a huge goal that I set for myself in Janary of 2007. I shed 31 unwanted pounds from my body!! =) It was a goal I had set for many years, and I finally proved to myself I could do it. So I just had to share. I found this picture that I took when I lost that first 20 pounds a couple of months ago, and now I've added 11 more. It gives me hope for this new year that I can accomplish anything my heart desires.

Look at me - what a trip, eh?? I normally hate looking at pictures of myself, but it's hard to take my eyes off this one LOL~ Okay, Jen, shut up and go to bed now. Well, here's to a brand new year, and making all of our dreams come true! (Clink the glasses!!) By this time next year, "The Song of the Piano Man" will be my first novel to hit the stores...Sounds good huh!! But hey, a girl can dream, right?? I swear I'm gonna make it happen. I am bound and determined.

Happy Happy Joy Joy!!

Happy New Year 2009!! ;-)

2008-12-31T23:18:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year to the JenBob! What a fun night of celebration we had with our family - my husband and his brothers, my mother and her friend Les, as we toasted to one another and welcomed in the new year. My mom is so cute - we celebrate together every year. I am looking forward to a new year. As fun as the holidays were, they were much too busy and stressful for me, so I am super glad they are over. It's time for a new beginning and I'm looking forward to a fabulous new year.

Goals and resolutions for this year?? Yes, it seems like in most years past I expect way too much of myself. But this year I will be more realistic in my goal setting. What matters the most? To be closer to my Savior, closer to my family, to build better relationships with my friends, and just be happy in everything that I do! Trust my life to the Lord's hands, and come what may.

Pictures and more celebrations to come. Right now it's late, it's time to kiss the family goodbye, turn out the lights and lay down my sleepy head next to the handsome head of my eternal companion. I'm on vacation this week, so I'm giddy and drunken with happiness and joy. Whatever in the world will I do with myself?? I am way too excited to find out! =) I will keep you posted.

For now, here's to the Happiest New Year ever!!

Welcome to the World, Riker!! ;-)

2008-12-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

What a happy weekend this has been. ;-) On Saturday morning, my nephew Riker Jonathan O'Brien came into the world. Both mom and baby are doing great - healthy and happy and strong. I didnt go into the delivery room this time (I've seen three amazing deliveries, all precious and treasured experiences for me, thanks to Johnna and Laura, but I think I'm done spending time in them observing - unless by some miracle I will be in a delivery room for a child of my own.) Anyway, my hubby and I went to the hospital today and spent lots of time with my sister and her beautiful family.

I am so proud of my sister Johnna. She is a strong, amazing woman and the most wonderful mother for her two boys. They are very lucky to have her. I admire her for all she has been through, and for making childbirth and motherhood look like a piece of cake. I'm excited to be an Aunt again, and I look forward to getting to know Riker.

Oh, and he is not allowed to grow up. He will need to be an infant forever and ever... he, he!!

Anyway, welcome to the world, Riker - and congrats to the O'Brien family!! You are all amazing. Bob and I dont know what we would ever do without you. Thank goodness families are forever...that way, we never need to worry about loosing them

Happy Happy Joy Joy!!

A time of thanksgiving...a time to rejoice!

2008-11-26T13:39:00.001-08:00

I had the day off from work today, and I've been taking some time to reflect on my life, and to ponder all of my blessings. I am grateful first of all for Bob... my husband. Yesterday we celebrated his 21st birthday (ha, ha!) . We had dinner together with his family (lasagna, his favorite!) and spent the evening laughing and enjoying our time together. All night long I couldnt help but stare at my husband's handsome face. What a precious man he is. We've been married for 12 incredible years. He makes me laugh everyday. He takes care of every need I have, physically, mentally, and emotionally. He gives me his shoulder to cry on. He blesses my life with the priesthood. He works hard to provide for our family, to care for his brothers, to be there for all of his family members. He never complains. He is strong. He longs for children of his own, and I long somday to provide that need for him. He is my strength and my all. Again, he makes me laugh every single day. He is my best friend.

I'm grateful for my family. I love my mom and my Dad. No matter how old I get, I still need them desperately in my life. They have loved and supported me. They have turned me into the woman I am today, a woman of great love and faith. They taught me well. My four sisters have been my greatest friends. I can turn to them when I need love and support, or simply a shoulder to cry on. I watch them, and I learn from them. I love how they each love the members of their own families. I love watching them live their lives, and growing more beautiful each day. My life would mean nothing without them. And I'm grateful to be an aunt for all of their children. I love each child as if they were my own.

I'm grateful for my in-laws. I never had any brothers growing up, and now I have seven of them, including the three men in my sister's lives. Like my own family, they have always been there for me. And I have a couple of other sisters whom I love with all my heart. Annie is my best friend, she listens and she cares. Mom and Grandma are just like my own flesh and blood. How I love them for letting me "borrow" their son and brother. The Justus family is truly my eternal family.

I'm grateful for my friends. I always have someone I can count on, through the good times and the bad. So many precious faces fill my head when I think of my friends, and they all know exactly who they are. The list would be too long. I love and cherish them dearly. I could never get through this life without my friends. I'm so thankful we are all in this life together, and we can all turn to each other in times of need. ;-)

I'm grateful for my pets. I'm grateful for my home, my church and my God. I am grateful to have a prophet here on earth. I'm grateful for my health, for my job, and for public transportation. I'm grateful for all my experiences on this earth, both the good times and the bad. Yes, I'm even grateful for the trials that push me, and shape me. It's a wonderful world, and I am truly a blessed person. These are my thoughts at this glorious time of feasting and thanksgiving.

Tis the season to be happy, to love and to rejoice. Happy Happy Joy Joy, and to all a very Happy Thanksgiving!