Memories....Comment, dang it!

This sounds fun!
1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you can come up with!2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you.I'm looking forward to seeing the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll trackback to your blog and leave one about you!

So busy

Life is just plain crazy right now. Ava is growing up so fast! She learned to crawl a couple of weeks ago and can now pull herself up to furniture. She keeps me on my toes constantly! The other day, she woke up and when we went to go get her, she was butt naked in her crib. She had managed to pull her diaper off and pee in the bed. But we couldn't help but laugh because when we went to go get her, she was on all fours just grinning at us. Some days, I feel like I just don't have the energy to keep up with her. She is quite the character. Very stubborn and opinionated, but I love her anyway!
Nate and I have been busy doing family history. We are taking a class, and it's so much fun. You just realize how much work there is to do for your ancestors. It's been fun researching them and learning more and more about our heritage.
Nate bought me a keyboard which is freaking sweet! I love it! Now I can practice the hymns that I'll play every Sunday. Before, I would try and get over to the church, but there is a rule that ladies can't be there without a Priesthood holder.... needless to say it was difficult sometimes to get over there. But now I can practice any time I want!
Nate had a job interview last week, so we're waiting to see if he got the job or not. I hate waiting for things like that. It stresses me out.

America

I love the 4th of July! It's my favorite holiday. I love going to the parade and being with family and friends. I love seeing fireworks and grilling on the BBQ. But most importantly, I love what America stands for. America is the greatest country on the planet. We have so many different cultures, opinions, religions, and freedoms here. I took a political science class last semester and learned more about our founding fathers. They were so inspired. It brings tears to my eyes every time I hear the Star Spangled Banner and see fireworks. I used to not be so emotional, but when my brother joined the Marine's, I saw America in a whole new light. He has told me of some experiences he had in Iraq, and I realized just how blessed we are. I am proud to be an American

10 years ago....

Maybe some of you know, and maybe some of you don't. 10 years ago, my little brother was diagnosed with cancer. He had a stage 4 tumor on the side of his face. Quite an experience, let me tell you. He had radiation for 6 weeks and chemotherapy for a year.... it has been ten years since he was diagnosed. He has been in remission for five years, and I feel extremely lucky to have him as a brother. We also are celebrating his 1 year anniversary from when he had a major surgery. He was in the operating room for about 9 hours and in ICU for 3 days and in the hospital for 11 days total. This wasn't his first surgery, but hopefully it was one of his last. Since the tumor was in his face, they had to radiate his entire face, which has caused some complications.... but that's a whole other story. I am so lucky to have him in my family. He has strength and courage beyond any mortal comprehension. I used to be upset and ask why he had to have cancer.... but over the years I can see that it was a good thing. That's where I gained my testimony. I saw miracles performed and saw how the gospel truly works. I saw the power of the priesthood heal his body when modern medicine couldn't. I gained a testimony of prayer, fasting, tithing, and most importantly, eternal families. It's because of that experience that I knew I wanted an eternal family and I knew I could never settle for anything else. I'm so grateful for my family and for all the good doctors that Nelson's had over these past years. Here's to you, Nelson....