Saturday, February 13, 2010

Happy Birthday Jennifer!



It all began with her. From there my mom would have 9 more children, but Jennifer set the bar!

My oldest sister Jennifer is one amazing woman! She has always been a good example to me, in every aspect of her life. She was a good girl, obedient to her parents, helpful to her siblings, and the best example of a disciple of Christ. I have so many fond memories of my friendship with my sister.

I loved dancing around the "pretty room" while Jennifer played the piano.

Jennifer let me go to a sleepover for our cousin Debra with her, even though there's a good 7 year gap in our age. It was there I received my first (and ONLY) perm. Jennifer taught me the running man and the rodger rabbit dances that night as well, changing my life forever!

One time Jennifer let me stay up and watch Far and Away with her and her friends. I still remember sitting really still and quiet so that she wouldn't want to send me away. I didn't want to ruin the good thing I had going. You know it's special if it got me to sit still and quiet!

I also remember when Jennifer came home from college once and took me, just me, to go see Forrest Gump in the movie theatre. When you have 9 siblings, going anywhere alone with someone is pretty special.

While I remember these few moments, there are countless more experiences with Jennifer, experiences where she gave of herself, sacrificed time and energy for my sake. I love you Jennifer. I'm so grateful to have you as a sister and friend.

Love,
Tanya

Jennifer: Click on this link birthday to watch your Birthday video.

Monday, January 04, 2010

New Year's Resolutions

I had a great year in 2009. I was able to compete in a national service competition in Kansas. I had a lead role in a professional play. I graduated culinary school! I went on a cruise. I lived by the Atlantic Ocean. I got pregnant, which was a big dream come true. I completed a culinary internship. I moved to Utah Valley to join the rest of my world. Tom and I have of course had loads of fun together, as we always do. For 2010, I'm hoping to keep the ball rolling and check some other things off the list. You know, it's a shame it's in list form because the journey really is half the fun. But lists have their place in the world. I LOVE lists. Plus, I'm hoping that if I write them down, and send them out to the blogging universe I will have a better chance of accomplishing my new year's resolutions. So here are some things I plan to do this year:


1. Book at least 12 catering/craft services gigs this year. I'd like to average one a month, but I know some will have more than others and January's going to be busy, what with having a baby and all.


2. Have a baby. I like to put a few things on my list that I know I'll be able to cross off.


3. Learn the entire Beyonce's "Single Ladies" dance and perform it for whoever will watch. I wanted to learn it last year and never did. I don't think people would have enjoyed watching me perform it pregnant, though.

4. Be healthy enough to perform Beyonce's "Single Ladies" dance in the customary leotard and high heels.


5. Read 6 novels. I'm not usually a slow reader, but I know I'll have a lot on my plate with the new world of being a mom, so I'm trying to be realistic.


6. I have a cookbook idea. I should at least be able to get a rough draft written. Plus, there's a lot of at-home research I can do to make sure the recipes work, etc. So, I will write the rough draft of my cookbook. More details to follow on the actual idea.