Doctor, Doctor....Mr & Mrs MD

A Day of Thanks

2010-11-25T21:24:00.000-08:00

To borrow from the words our beloved President Monson:

Accentuate the Positive
Eliminate the Negative
Latch on to the affirmative
Don't mess with Mr In-Between.

Good advice then, good advice now. This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right.
We can lift ourselves, and others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative though and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude may be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the most noble of virtues.

How wonderful to have a day focused on giving thanks.
How much I have to be grateful for.
The most amazing, loving and kind husband
An incredibly loving and supportive family
Darling nephews and a beautiful niece
A faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ
The ability to share my testimony with those I meet and work with
The opportunity to assist others at a time of great need and pain
The chance to perform surgery
Fabulous friends
A warm home
Plentiful food
The chance to experience all that living in LA has to offer
Good health
Frequent visits home to Utah
Co-workers I am going to be crushed to no longer see everyday
SHOPPING!!!
Accessories
Vacations
Grammy's stuffing and gravy
Starbucks hot chocolate
Pinkberry
Cafe Rio
The Utah Jazz
Christmas tree with glistening lights
Flowers
The sound of waves crashing on the shore
The smell of peppermint and bubblegum (not together)
Bubble baths
The advanced technology I can't imagine living my life without
Back rubs
Pedicures
Fashion magazines
My red hair
Baseball hats
Sleeping in
Naps
Dansko clogs
Slippers
High heels
I-tunes for my I-pod
Surprises
Kisses
Snow
Wakeboards
Reality TV
The sound of laughter
Happy tears
Lipstick
Freckles
And the list goes on and on....
I am grateful for a day of thanks

Thursday

2010-11-18T09:26:00.000-08:00

It is a Thursday morning.

It is 9:27AM and I am still in bed listening to "Regis and Kelly"

in the background.

I have worked about a gazillion hours in the past week trying to

"restore the flow".... I am on vascular surgery and working furiously

to try to save patients limbs from poor blood supply.

Funny how these emergencies always tend to present to the

ER late in the evening...

However, all these late night emergencies have earned me a day off

in the middle of the week!

I almost don't know what to do with myself...

Oh wait...is that my pager I hear???

Yes, for the 5th time this morning

not including the 2 direct phone calls.

Maybe it would have been easier to just go to work.

Grammy Char's Surprise 75th Birthday

2010-09-28T10:19:00.000-07:00

I was so lucky to be able to arrange my schedule to fly to Utah for a weekend in June to be there for Grammy Char's surprise 75th birthday party!

I boarded a flight at 7:00AM on the day of the party in sweats, flip-flops and a baseball hat with the plan to arrive in Utah at 10:30AM, go straight to Aunt Mindy's to ready myself and then off the park for the 2:00 party. I arrived in Utah on-time, and waited and waited and waited for my luggage to come off of the carousel however to no avail. It is now 11:15 and I head straight for the Delta luggage customer service counter only to be told that my suitcase was placed on the flight after mine and would arrive at 1:00PM. I was distraught and angry to say the least as I had arrived at LAX in plenty of time to check my bag. After a heated conversation with the agent and being threatened to have security escort me out, I was left with few choices. Kenzie had kindly driven down from Ogden to pick me up, but I had to send her back home to finish helping set up for the party. I headed off to the nearest car rental counter to get a car and then off to Gateway Mall to shop away my frustration find something to wear should my bag stay MIA. Part of the frustration of the missing bag included a priceless baseball signed by former Dodger players that Todd had gotten for his Dad's birthday...silly me for checking anything of value! Back to the airport and finally my bag appears at 1:45PM. I frantically drive as quickly as I dare to Ogden and ready myself in about 10 minutes flat as the party has already started and I have missed the great surprise of Grandma's arrival.

As I reach the pavilion, Grandma's back was to me and she was busy talking to other party-goers. Cannon tugs on shirt to get her attention and tells her someone wants to say hi....ME! I had called Grandma earlier that day as I was stranded at the airport waiting for my luggage and had a long conversation about LA weather and how work had been that morning and how sad I was that I had an emergency case that afternoon instead of being able to spend the day with Todd. Oops, guess I was lying about my whereabouts!!!

Me and Todd's parents

Yeah...the baseball!

Enjoying some snuggle time with my sweet Creed!

Sisters...minus Jocelyn.

Sure love these girls!

Two of the very most thoughtful, caring, righteous and wonderful men that I know!

After the party at the park, we then had a BBQ for the family.

Delicious food, a spirited game of kickball and a water fight...so much fun!

Strong like bull Wolthuis Girls holding our brother!

Oops, not for long...Johnny on his way down!

Brady cheering us on...how goofy we are!

I couldn't ask for better siblings!!!

Mommy and Daddy....and of course Uncle Lorin and his infamous "bunny fingers"!

Singing Happy Birthday to Grammy!

Best Dad in the World!

Trying to get a picture with my precious nephews and niece...about as good as it can get!

Me and My Princess Paisley!

I think Jocelyn and I fared the worst at the end of the water fight...

And we tried to avoid it!

I was fortunate enough to be able to stay in Utah for most of Sunday and attend church and enjoy a fabulous Sunday dinner cooked by Mom. We took Johnny and Brittney to the airport and then had some time before my flight so we headed to Temple Square. We were able take a tour of the Conference Center roof-top garden and marvel at what the church is able to create! And then it was back to LA for me...

Happy Anniversary!!!

2010-08-20T18:31:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Todd and I are celebrating our 11 year wedding anniversary today. I t seems like just yesterday that we were sharing our first kiss by the WHS tennis courts during a Halloween stomp as sophomores in high school! What absolute utter joy that you have brought into my life...more that I could have ever dreamed possible! Heavenly Father has truly blessed me with the most amazing and wonderful husband imaginable and I would be utterly lost without you! You sacrifice so much on my behalf...and I know that it is not equally returned! You never fail to provide for my needs whatever they may be. You go out of your way to cook, clean, do errands, grocery shop and ensure that the laundry is always done despite how busy you are. You carry me to bed when I am absolutely too exhausted to walk the short distance from the couch to bedroom, never forgetting to get my alarm set for the next morning. You allow me to stay in bed and answer intern and resident endless pages and phone calls all through the night even though you may be on call the next day. You are loving, kind, thoughtful, supportive, a worthy priesthood holder and exercise that power within our home, and despite how tired or stressed you may be feeling, you never fail to bring a smile to my face when all I want to do is cry...and if I do cry, your supportive shoulder and listening ear are always there! How blessed I am to be your wife. If asked to make a list of the qualities I hoped and looked for in a husband, my best list would have fallen very short of the man that you are. I love and adore you more than I ever imagined possible! You are the love of my life!!!!!

The Other Side of the Knife

2010-08-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

I have been struggling for months with my right hand.

Excruciating pain.

Numbness.

Electric shocks shooting up my arm.

Weakness.

Having to use my left hand to assist my dysfunctional

right hand while operating.

Painful steroid injections into my wrist by my sweet husband

at home late at night while I whimper and cry.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

After the injections were no longer helping and operating had become

just too painful to bear, I decided it was time for more definitive action.

That's right...surgery for the surgeon.

Me waiting to be rolled back to the operating room.

And yes, I look drugged because I was drugged...versed to be exact!

The Aftermath...still drugged and showing it!

Post-Operative Day #8.

Swelling improved.

Bruising significantly better.

Signs of "hum...what happened...suicide attempt gone bad" diminishing.

My surgeons post-op instructions to me: use sparingly,

NO OPERATING X2 WEEKS.

My own post-op instructions: use at will,

whimper as needed, operating 6 days later!

Kauai 2010....CONTINUED

2010-08-03T21:08:00.001-07:00

Days 7 and 8

Friday morning the Wolthuis klan and Grammy Char went tubing down the old canals that had been used to water the sugar cane fields. We spent 3 hours in "delightfully tepid" water streaming down narrow canals and through caves. We had an absolute fabulous time!!! The brother-in-laws kept everybody entertained tossing each other from their tube, splashing and making a ruckus!

After our tubing adventure, we hiked to these hidden lake where you are able to cliff jump and ride the most incredible tree swing! It took some of us...me...a few moments to convince myself to jump. Others...Brady and Cannon...showed no fear leaping off the cliff without a second thought!

Brady mid-backflip!

On my way down...you bet I have my nose plugged!

Jocey mid-jump with Daddy watching!

Cannon truly loved cliff jumping!!!

Saturday morning we all worked to pack and clean the condos in preparation to leave.

Of course, I had to have a picture of the island's endangered species...roosters!

Mommy and Grammy outside the condo...I love these gals!

The entire group...how blessed I am to be a member of this family!

We then traveled to the southern part of the island through the tunnel of trees and to the spouting horn.

Then it was off to the airport and back to reality.

As we were eating lunch that afternoon, Todd got a call from the airline that the plane we were supposed to connect on in Oahu was having mechanical troubles and would we mind taking a later but direct flight...IN FIRST CLASS...um, let me think about that...YES!!!

Jocey modeling all of our straw hats...

Todd is such a sweetheart and helps haul all of my things....

here he is modeling my straw hats, and the purse and carry-on he always lugs for me!

Brady and Laurel enjoying first class...and the space it provided for Paisley to sleep easily on the floor underneath them!

Jocey and Mommy enjoying our lovely meal!

Daddy Warbucks traveling the way he deserves!!!

Thanks for a fabulous vacation!

Fabulous vacation...sad it had to come to an end!

And last but not least, congrats to Brittney on winning the

"MAY I" PLATE...game well played!!!

Kauai 2010....CONTINUED

2010-07-28T13:24:00.000-07:00

Day 6

Thursday morning was spent snorkeling

at Tunnels Beach.

We all had a great time admiring the

beautiful coral and fish.

That afternoon, we went on a catamaran boat cruise

of the norther part of the island.

Jocey is all ready to see the fishies!!!

Paisely not convinced she likes the sand and water...

Larry, our boat guide....

Grammy catching some zzz.... along with the waves!

After we got dropped at shore, we had to wait in the pitch black

for the cars to come and get us...man was it dark!

Good think we had each other as we were left there

waiting for over 30 minutes!

Kauai 2010....CONTINUED

2010-07-28T12:41:00.000-07:00

Day 5

We spent Wednesday on a zipline through the treetops of Kauai.

We had an absolute blast!!!

Although it was quite scary taking that first step off the platform,

we all really enjoyed ourselves.

Thanks to Mommy and Grammy Char for staying home and watching the kids.

After the morning of zipping, we all met for pizza

in town and then couldn't resist another stop

for the delicious Hawaiian Blizzard Shaved Ice!

Kauai 2010....CONTINUED

2010-07-05T19:11:00.000-07:00

Days 3 and 4

Monday was spent traveling around

the island sight-seeing.

We went to several rivers and waterfalls....

the scenery on this island is amazing!

Cannon is Todd's buddy...

Cannon was so excited when he saw

they were wearing the same shirt!

Oh how I love this lady!!!

Daddy and Creed hanging out while the rest of us hiked.

Oh how I love this little lady...

Couldn't ask for a better Grammy than this!!!

Beautiful waterfall that we were able to hike to the top of...

Us from the top of the waterfall in the picture above...

Colton was a trooper and hiked down a

steep and scary hill to get to the waterfall!

What was even more frightening was watching

Brittney hike and slide her way down the hill!

A little glimpse of the hill...

Todd borrowing little Creed's hat after a long day in the sun!

After the waterfalls, we stopped to see an old lighthouse.

After hiking and sight-seeing the day before,

Tuesday we headed back to the beach.

Johnny and Brady surfed, the rest of us boogie-boarded.

We all enjoyed the beach, water and sun.

Paisley enjoyed a snack of goldfish crackers dipped in sand...yummy!

This looks like it belongs in a magazine...gorgeous!

The boys had a blast playing on the beach...

Dad just "hanging loose" and watching us fools battle the waves!

Grammy trying to stay out of the blazing rays of the sun!

Brady taking a break from surfing...

Love this picture of Laurel...

is she naked behind that board...

I'll never tell!!!

What a way to spend the day!!!

Wolthuis Family Fun...Kauai Style 2010

2010-06-20T16:01:00.001-07:00

How lucky are we...the entire Wolthuis Clan, including Grammy Char but minus little Crew, were able to spend the first week of June living it up in Kauai! We traveled from LA, SLC, Portland and Boise to enjoy a week in paradise! We had an absolutely fabulous time...thank you Dad and Mom for all you did to make this week possible!

DAYS 1 AND 2

After an early morning that started with rounding at 3:00AM, Todd and I along with Dad, Mom, Laurel, Brady, Princess P and Jocelyn all headed to the airport for an early flight. We all arrived first and took advantage of the time to get 2 of the 3 rental cars and head to Costco for a food run. One by one the others arrived and the vacation truly began.

We spent the first day just getting settled in and enjoying the pool at the resort.

The second day was spend lounging at the beach and relaxing...just what the "doctor" ordered!

16 people = lots and lots of luggage!

Here we are waiting for the mini vans...

Todd wearing all of the leis awaiting us at our condo.

Todd presenting Johnny with his lei...

including the double-check kiss!

By the look on John's face, I think he is rather enjoying it!

Hanging out at the pool...

These boys were the best travel companions...

plus not to mention, they never failed to entertain us!

We sure loved our time with the DeVries boys!

The gorgeous beach of Kauai!

The Albinos of the group...we love our sunscreen!

The white girls sandwiching the one that tans...

we have to pose the question...is she truly our sister???

After a great day at the beach, enjoying a BBQ by the pool.

We sure loved having little Creed with us...

Todd getting to practice up his baby skills!

Harbor-UCLA Graduation Dinner 2010

2010-06-20T15:39:00.001-07:00

The Annual Harbor-UCLA Graduation dinner was held a few weekends ago. It is always so nice to be able to sit and talk with people from work outside of the hospital. I really feel so blessed to work with such wonderful people...after all, I do spend more time with these folks than I do my own hubby!

Todd and I at the dinner

Anisa Buck...she will be my junior resident for 20 weeks this next year!

Some of the girls of Harbor General Surgery!

Dr. Belzberg (attending at Kaiser) and Armen (my co-resident)

I have learned more from my time with Dr. Belzberg than almost any other person!!!

After I would spend a day operating with Dr. Belzberg, I would come home to tell Todd how much I am in love with him...he is the best!

The Harbor-UCLA General Surgery Chief Residents 2010-2011

Horray...my last white coat of residency!

The end is near!

HAPPY FATHERS DAY!

2010-06-20T15:24:00.001-07:00

Dad and Mom's most recent visit to LA

Zipline in Kauai

Weekend trip home for the NCAA Basketball Game

Happy Father's Day Dad! I truly have the most wonderful and fabulous father in the world!!! He is so kind, thoughtful, adventurous, funny, witty, generous and giving. I have always admired how generous Dad is to not only his own family but also those he knows and may not know. I pray that I may be able to help those around me in the ways that he has! He sacrifices so much and works so very hard to provide for our family! Thank you for providing for our most recent vacation to Hawaii...oh that time and those memories are priceless! Thank you for your testimony and true love of the gospel and the way you honor your priesthood and have always blessed our home! You are always able to bring a smile to my face with your quick wit and humor! I appreciate more than you know your sympathy and understanding when I am frustrated with medicine! I love and appreciate you more than words can express! Thank you for being the best father ever!

How Do You Measure A Year

2010-06-13T17:04:00.000-07:00

525,600 minutes
8448 hours
325 days
52 weeks
1 year

Yes folks, its true.
One year of residency left.
What is that I see???

I believe they refer to it as a light at the end of the tunnel.

The tunnel of torture, misery, hell they politely refer to as a surgical residency!

Utah Here We Come...

2010-05-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

September 15, 2009: Todd submits his fellowship applications

November 2009: Fellowship interview offers arrive

December 2009: Todd begins the long 3 month process of fellowship interviews

April 30, 2010 at 4:15AM-->After being given strict instructions from my husband the evening before not to check the internet and that he would call me later that morning once he received word as to where he had matched, I of course disobey and check the internet in hope that the match results are available this early in the morning. University of Utah...really? It is early, are my eyes playing tricks on me??? Blink, Blink. University of Utah!!! Rush with the laptop into the bedroom, place it on Todd's belly and begin to poke him until he responds.

ME: "Look honey, LOOK!!! You matched at the U of U."

Todd: "What, huh? What time is it? Hey, I though I told you not to look....U of U...really, are you sure???

ME: "Yes...look...WE ARE GOING HOME!!!"

Yes, Todd has matched at the University of Utah for a fellowship position in Total Joint Replacement (hip and knee joint replacement).

Needless to say....WE COULD NOT BE ANY HAPPIER! Todd will begin his training August 1, 2011. We will both complete our residency training in LA in June 2011 and be able to move together. I am currently starting the job hunt for a surgical practice to join somewhere between Ogden and Salt Lake.

We feel so very blessed as had he not matched at the U of U we would be faced with living another year apart...something we have already done once during our marriage and were really dreading the prospect of having to do again.

We are so very grateful for these past six years and the fabulous experiences that we have had while living in San Francisco and LA! However, we are thrilled that we will be moving back home for good!

Happy Mothers Day!!!

2010-05-09T13:50:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers Day to every mother...I admire all of you so much. Your life is more challenging and difficult than most will ever recognize. You work 365 days a year, 24 hours a day without rest or complaint. Your lasting influence on us all is immeasurble!

I would like to take advantage of this special day to honor my precious Mother and Grandmother. How blessed I am to have these two fabulous women in my life!!!
My mother's example of service, unconditional love and kindness know no end. Her support is endless...she has always made me believe that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to and never let me give up even when things were tough! I treasure my phone calls with her and I drive to and from the hospital. Everyone in her presence is made to feel of their importance to her! She is loved and adored by all those who come in contact with her more than she will ever know! Thank you for being the absolutely best wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend and giving us all something to emulate.

My Grandmother is truly one of my most treasured friends! She is always able to make me smile and laugh even when all I may want to do is cry. How I love that regardless of where we may be in Ogden, without fail we will see someone she knows and stop to talk. There is not a bad thing that anyone can say about this remarkable woman. She is the ultimate example of love, kindness, service to others, hard work and sacrifice. She has a love for the temple that permeates to all of her children and grandchildren.

I can only become half of the woman that my mother and grandmother are, than I will have succeeded in something in this life.

And to my dear sisters who are mothers...thank you for sharing your children with me! How I love all of them more than you can imagine! I admire you and the amazing mothers you are! Thank you for setting such a good example for me...I will have a lot to live up to someday!

Laughter Is The Best Medicine...

2010-04-27T19:19:00.000-07:00

This past weekend, Todd and I were sharing funny experiences that we have had during our residencies. The more we talked, the more things came to mind that I truly don't want to forget...after all, some days it is only these funny experiences that keep you from breaking down and crying. So, I have decided that my blog will help serve as a journal for me to remember these times...

---ME to the patient in the ER on my very first day of internship: hello Mr. ---, I am Dr. Grunander. What brings you to the hospital today?

Patient: ok, really. I want a doctor.

ME: sir, I am your doctor. What is bother you?

Patient: no, really. I want a real doctor....

---ME: Intern, please go and consent Mr. --- for his hernia repair and mark his leg on the side of the hernia.

Intern to the patient: Mr. ---, I need you to sign the consent form for surgery.

PATIENT: but I am not here for surgery.

Intern: Yes, you are having hernia surgery.

PATIENT: but I don't have a hernia

Intern: Yes, you have a groin hernia and are having surgery today...hey, why are you eating breakfast, you are having surgery today.

PATIENT: but I have pneumonia, I DON'T HAVE A HERNIA

ME to the Intern (after 20 minutes have gone by): What took you so long???

Intern: The patient forgot that they had a hernia and were having surgery, kept insisting they had pneumonia. It took a little convincing, but the patient signed the consent form and I marked the leg. Funny though, I remember it being a big hernia and this one wasn't very big...come to think of it, this guy is African-American....

ME: our patient is Hispanic....who did you convince to have surgery.....that is not the right patient....he actually signed the consent form....GO BACK, TELL THIS PATIENT THEY CAN EAT AND FOR THE LOVE PLEASE FIND OUR PATIENT!

---Nurse (with a strong accent): Doctor Megan, Doctor Megan your patient is not breathing, patient not breathing...

ME: What??? What??? CALL A CODE BLUE, GET THE CRASH CART, I AM COMING!!!

Nurse: Oh Dr. Megan, don't worry, patient already dead.

---ME to the intern: Please consent the family of the patient in bed #2 for a trach and PEG

Intern (with strong accent): what is this trach and PEG that you speak of?

ME: ok, seriously, get consent for trach and PEG

Intern: can you spell that? What procedure is this? What? What? I don't understand.

ME: ok, now time for someone that can speak English...get someone else.

------ME to trauma patient: hello sir, I am Dr. Grunander. I am the trauma surgeon on call. So you have been stabbed in the belly. Were you stabbed anywhere else?

Trauma patient to ME: what, you are my doctor? How old are you?

My trauma patient in the next bed to my current patient: I know, she told me she was my doctor too but frankly I don't believe it....she looks like 14...

ME to both of them: OK, thank you for the flattery but I am 29....and yes, I am your doctor so quit talking about me and let me take care of you!

Sorry if this is not amusing to many of you...but there will be many more to come!

Belated Happy Birthday to My Hubby!!!

2010-03-20T19:52:00.001-07:00

Happy 32nd Birthday to my amazing husband! Thank you for being the fabulous man that you are! Thank you for tolerating my craziness...and loving me in spite of it! Thank you for your endless love and support...I would be absolutely lost without you! Thank you for you patience and tolerance of my ridiculous schedule...as demonstrated by your birthday post that is 10 days late! Thank you for being the laundry and cleaning fairy...I can't image how I would ever have clean clothes without you! You are truly the best and my life is better because of you! I treasure every moment, day, year with you...and love you more and more!!!

The Sexy Man during his track days at Weber State.

Nice bum, where you from???

Quite the card shark...

And never fails to bring a smile to my face!

The Inevitable Fashionista...

Who says you can't wear socks and dress shoes with a swimming suit?

Hauling my luggage at the end of vacation...

I think he secretly likes wearing a straw hat!

Another vacation, more luggage...

a little less enthusiastic...

Enjoying a baseball game with Daddy!

Always studying to be the best physician he can be...

"Enjoying" a day at the beach!

On Todd's actual birthday, we were lucky to have Johnny staying with us while on some business in LA. I got home rather late that night just in time for my visiting teacher to get her (in the crazy that is my life, I had forgotten to call her to try to reschedule). We then had to watch the end of the Weber State basketball game as they gave up a huge lead to lose the Big Sky Conference Championship which didn't make any of us WSU alums all to happy. When we finally got over our disappointment, we headed to a new restaurant by our house and enjoyed great pizza (Todd's absolute favorite food) and pazookies.

Happy Birthday Babe...I love you!!!

Much Needed Rest and Relaxation in Utah

2010-02-14T17:10:00.001-08:00

I was able to spend a week in Utah during the month of January. Time with family, playing cards, getting my hair done...it was just what this tired girl was in desperate need of!

I flew in late on a Sunday evening after having completed yet another dreaded trauma call.

Monday was spent playing cards with Grammy and Mindy. I was then able to meet Carl at Weber State and use his educational discount to buy a new laptop as our computer literally blew up right as I was leaving LA. I have since been heaven with my new Mac....so happy to be able to iChat with the rest of the family now!

Tuesday morning was spent in Park City having breakfast and shopping with one of my dearest friends whom I met in medical school...how grateful I am for Alissa's friendship! I was then able to spend the afternoon getting beautified as mom and I both had our hair done...oh how there are few things better!

Wednesday morning Mommy, Grammy and I hit the road to travel to Idaho to spend some time with Jocelyn and Emily. We met Jocey on the BYU-I campus and had a nice lunch with her...although she may say she was tortured as Grammy and I tried to hit on every college-age guy for her! We also visited the Rexburg Temple. It was then off the Emily's house and some priceless time with my precious nephews!

Jocey and I at the Rexburg Temple...

Me, Jocey, and Grammy at the Temple...

I couldn't get enough of the little man...

Crew was able to amuse himself by walking around in my high-heels!

I adore this little boy!

Little Crew is just too cute for words...he really wanted to go to school with Cannon.

He put on Cannon's old cleats without socks, got his coat and backpack and went out to wait for the bus....so adorable! When he couldn't go to school, he decided to entertain himself by shoveling the snow.

On Friday, Mommy and I were able to meet Grammy, Devin and little Ashlynn for lunch. We then met Daddy that evening for dinner and I was able to spend a fabulous night with my parents!

Mom couldn't resist documenting the garbage can run with me in my dress pants and high heels...don't know how they do this every week!

I flew home on Saturday morning and spent some much needed time with my sweet hubby!

The week went by all too quickly...oh how I love every minute that I am able to spend back home in Utah.

24 hours of Christmas in Utah...

2010-02-01T18:02:00.001-08:00

Todd and I were fortunate enough to be able to travel to Utah for a mere 24 hours to celebrate a belated Christmas with our families! Although the visit was short, I have come to realize how priceless that time spent with family is...although, Todd may argue that the inflated cost of our airline tickets did not equate to "priceless" memories! After spending Christmas day on trauma call, I arrived home without having slept in 34 hours only to quickly throw a travel bag together, shower and make our way to the airport. I easily slept the entire flight to Utah. Todd and I were met by Dad and we were able to join the Wolthuis-Herbert Christmas Eve party which had been delayed until December 26th so that we could be there. Good food, fabulous company, the "Must Be Santa...aka Snotty Nose" song and the left-right game filled the evening. Here are a few pictures of the much fought-after prizes up for grabs during the game...

Grammy Char with her reindeer antlers

Aunt Emily with her personally autographed picture of Dylan...this was greatly fought over and Jocelyn was the ultimate winner. The picture now sits in her room at BYU-I.

Daddy with his ornament full of live worms...nobody fought for this one!

Johnny channeling his inner-Donny!

Mommy ended up stealing this winner of a gift!

The big kids growing anxious for their turn for presents....

Cannon stole the antlers from Grandma-Grandma...

Todd couldn't resist borrowing Cannon's antlers for a quick photo-op!

Much of our time in Utah was spent enjoying our precious niece and nephews that we see all too infrequently...Thanks Emily and Laurel for letting us borrow your children!

Oh how I love and adore all of these sweet babies!!!

I just can't get enough of them!

Todd and Cannon enjoying a little Sunday football...

Sunday was spent enjoying more time with the Wolthuis family, being inspired by Dad's Sunday School lesson, a quick visit with the Grunander's who unfortunately weren't feeling well but luckily Todd had spent the weekend before Christmas with his family while in town to interview for a fellowship spot at the University of Utah, and then it was time to head back to California for another day of trauma call.

Oh how much we love our families...the holidays just aren't the same unless they are spent at home. Only one more Christmas and we are home for good....HOORAY!!!

Happy Birthday Daddy...Better Late than Never!

2010-02-01T16:54:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to the most wonderful father! He is the most loving, generous, smart, dedicated, witty, funny dad. How blessed we are as a family to have him. He is the hardest worker and never thinks of himself, always giving everything possible to those around him. He never fails to be able to make everyone in the room smile and laugh because of his quick wit. I treasure so much being able to talk with him about medicine and know he will always understand my fulfillment and frustration. He is continually sacrificing for his family, including allowing Mom to travel to visit all of us while he works. However much he will miss her while she is gone is secondary to what he feels his children need from our Mother's visit. I treasure the time that he is able to spend with us in California! I am so blessed to have a father who honors his priesthood and observe him use it in our home many times while growing up and still today. He was my constant traveling companion to watch Todd run for Weber State which we both truly enjoyed...especially Todd since he was easier on him after a tough race than I was! I know Todd considers him a second father as well as a dear friend...and I couldn't ask for anything better! Thank you Dad for being you....WE LOVE YOU!

Reflection on the Year....Past and Present.

2010-01-05T09:57:00.000-08:00

It is funny how the changing of a date can bring so much reflection on things past, present and future. However, I am going to jump on the bandwagon and document my hopes for the New Year....

The Past Year:
--Completed a very difficult year of fellowship at Cedars-Sinai and subsequently passed my Surgical Critical Care boards. Many times throughout that year the thought of quitting more than crossed my mind. However, how grateful I am for the lessons learned (medical and not) and finished what I had committed to do.
--Celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary...oh how blessed I am to be married to the love of my life and best friend!
--Able to spend time with family and friends, including numerous trips to Utah, visitors to California, and a fabulous trip to Mexico with the hubby.
--Have the ending of residency even more in sight as Todd and I have starting meeting with groups to discuss job opportunites and Todd starting the process of applying for fellowship.

The Upcoming Year:
--GET PREGNANT!!!
--Todd will match into a fellowship
--Todd and I will become chief residents
--trip to Hawaii in June with the entire Wolthuis clan
--sign a contract for a job
--be a better missionary and example to those that I work with
--look for opportunities to serve those around me
--lead a more Christ-like life

An Attitude of Gratitude

2009-11-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

To borrow from the words our beloved President Monson:

Accentuate the Positive
Eliminate the Negative
Latch on to the affirmative
Don't mess with Mr In-Between.

Good advice then, good advice now. This is a wonderful time to be living here on earth. Our opportunities are limitless. While there are some things wrong in the world today, there are many things right, such as teachers who teach, ministers who minister, marriages that work, parents who sacrifice, and friends who help.

We can lift ourselves, and others as well, when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative though and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude may be numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the most noble of virtues.

As life is what it is, I ofter find myself bemoaning my life and my current circumstance. However, during this season of Thanksgiving I reflect on the countless things that I have to be thankful for.

I am grateful for my husband: All of those who know Todd are able to appreciate the wonderful man that he is. I thank my Heavenly Father daily for blessing my life with his love and companionship!

I am grateful for my family: I truly have the most fabulous and loving family! How thankful I am to have been born to the parents I have and for my siblings and extended family...I couldn't ask for better!!!

I am thankful for the gospel: As I interact daily with people who are not blessed with the gospel in their lives, I feel guilty for not sharing more openly this most precious gift that I have. I am grateful that so many people are intrigued by "Mormons" and feel so comfortable in asking me about my beliefs and this gospel. I pray that I may be the example that helps lead someone to investigating and accepting the gospel one day as I know with all of my heart that it is true!!!

I am thankful for the opportunity to be a doctor: More days than not, I am often rather disheartened and unhappy with my career for a number of different reasons. I am more tired that words can express and often feel unappreciated by the people I work for and those I take care of. However, I think back on the day that I opened my acceptance letter to the University of Utah School of Medicine feeling that it was one of the happiest days of my life. I am grateful for all those who made it possible for me to attain my education and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity I have to change people's lives and help them many in their greatest time of need.

I am grateful for my temporal blessings: Although I often complain to Todd that I am anxious to live in a house, how selfish I am for these feelings. I am grateful for the wonderful roof I have over my head, the food in my fridge, and the car I have to drive. We are blessed with the ability to go out to dinner, to go shopping, to go to movies and sporting events, and to fly home to Utah frequently. In a time of recession, how grateful I am for my job and a husband who works so hard to support us.

I am grateful for good friends: As excited as I am at the prospect of moving to Utah when residency is completed, I do feel sorrow at the dear friends that we will leave here in California. Todd and I are blessed with many wonderful friends from both church and work that we love and appreciate.

This list could go on and on, as it is truly endless. How thankful and grateful I am for all of my blessings!!! I hope that I can adopt an unwavering "Attitude of Gratitude" and recognize my blessings, big and small, daily.

Cancun---A week in PARADISE!!!

2009-11-24T09:07:00.000-08:00

Todd and I celebrated our 10th wedding anniversary albeit a little belated in Cancun, Mexico this last October. We had a fabulous week of doing absolutely nothing but sitting by the beach or the pool, pampering ourselves with a day at the spa, eating about 5 wonderful meals a day and catching up on some much needed time together!!!

Here we are...off to paradise!

Our room..."Happy Anniversary"

Dinner the first night at the resort...over a pool, sunset beach in the background!

Our room's sitting area...

Beautiful day at the beach...

Beware...may need your sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of these white legs!

How an albino takes a nap on the beaches of Mexico...

Todd just kept adding layers as the sun starting setting and I was in its burning rays!

The lazy-river pool we spent hours enjoying!

The view from the hot-tub that was in our room...

Our private roof-top pool for just our room!

View from the balcony of our roof...

Todd enjoying our private roof...

"I am never going home!!!"

Another wonderful lunch...

Good sun and shade, good non-alcoholic daiquiri, good book...who can ask for anything more!

We seriously ate all day long between meals and room service...still trying to lose the 5 extra pounds that came home with me!

Oh how I love this man!!!

Enjoying the hammocks that hang over the lazy river!

Our pool and balcony at sunset...

As our trip was coming to an end, we felt that it would be a crime to travel to Mexico and not take the opportunity to visit Chichen Itza, the famous Mayan ruins a few hours away from Cancun. We were able to arrange a tour through our resort and we were sure glad we did! However, after about 5 minutes the albino girl was sure melting in the 118 degree Mexican sun!

In front of the Mayan "spa baths"

The Mayan water hole...

The serpent heads at the staircase...

On our way back to the city of Cancun, we stopped at a natural water hole that you hike 1/2 mile straight down from ground level to get to.

We are half way down the stone staircase...

A view from above...

Todd just as he is ready to hit the water from the jumping platform!

What a fabulous vacation spent with the love of my life!!!

Vacation to Utah...

2009-11-09T18:39:00.000-08:00

Yes, another week off of work == another visit to Utah.

Along with being able to spend much-longed for time with our families, Todd and I were also able to meet with physicians, administrators and recruiters from McKay-Dee Hospital and discuss future job opportunities.

Even more exciting was the blessing of having Laurel and Paisley visiting from Pittsburgh!!!

I was able to leave LA a few days before my dear hubby. I arrived in Utah on Saturday, September 26. I was met at the airport by Daddy, Mommy, Grammy, Laurel and Jocey and we headed straight to Provo for the BYU-CSU game. Thankfully BYU didn't disappoint (hard to believe this season I know) and provided a win!

Sunday is always a wonderful day when home. I was able to go to church and hear Dad's fabulous Sunday School lesson. It was then off to Devin's for a celebration of all of the September Birthdays!

Only our best sides please!

Sweet Sisters minus Emily.

Princess Paisley is requesting no pictures at this time...

Mommy and Daughters...we miss you Emily!

Mommy, sisters, cousin MaKenzie and Aunt Mindy...sure adore those beauties!

Monday morning I was able to meet with a surgeon at the Ogden Clinic to talk about surgical practice in Ogden. The rest of the day was spent playing cards and lunching, shopping, and meeting Daddy for dinner at Cafe Rio (no trip to Utah is complete without Cafe Rio pork)....what were we thinking...no pictures?

Me and my gorgeous Mommy!

Me and my beautiful Grammy!

How blessed I am to have the love, support and example of these two marvelous women!

Tuesday was spent meeting with the big-wigs from McKay-Dee...oh how I hope I can have a job there one day!!! Tuesday was also Christine's birthday and we were able to celebrate by going to dinner with Todd's Mom and Dad.

Happy Birthday Christine...beautiful flowers compliments of Jimmys Floral.

Wednesday was a bitter-sweet day as we had to bid farewell to Laurel and my Princess P. We stopped for lunch at CPK before going to the airport.

Me and my Princess...she really isn't scared of me...

She was really supposed to be mine...see the resemblance???

The best hubby in the entire world..at the most handsome!

How how I love and adore this little girl!

Mommy, Laurel and Me...

Wednesday night we were able to spend visiting and playing cards with our dear friends Bill and Heather...Todd and Bill were classmates in medical school.

The winning side of the table!

Don't frown just because you are losing!

Thursday was a day at the salon...mommy and I were able to have Auntie Emily beautify us. That night, the Grunander Family got together to officially celebrate Christine's Birthday. Enjoyed a yummy dinner at Timbermine!

Todd's Mom and Dad

The Grunander Clan

Friday was spent running errands and playing cards with Grammy and Aunt Mindy! Take-out, spoon me and the BYU-USU game filled the night.

Saturday I was able to meet with my sweet friends from high school, have lunch at Sonora Grill...a stop every time we visit and then it was back to LA for Todd and me....however, only to prepare to leave the next day for Cancun...more posts to follow.

Thanks again to our families and friends for another wonderful visit...I can count on one had the number of visits we have left before we are finally home for good!!! We love and miss you all!!!

10 Years of Truly Wedded Bliss!

2009-08-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that Todd and I are celebrating our 10 year wedding anniversary today. I t seems like just yesterday that we were sharing our first kiss by the WHS tennis courts during a Halloween stomp! What absolute utter joy that you have brought into my life...more that I could have ever dreamed possible! Heavenly Father has truly blessed me with the most amazing and wonderful husband imaginable and I would be utterly lost without you! You sacrifice so much on my behalf...and I know that it is not equally returned! You never fail to provide for my needs whatever they may be. You go out of your way to cook, clean, do errands, grocery shop and ensure that the laundry is always done despite how busy you are. You carry me to bed when I am absolutely too exhausted to walk the short distance from the couch to bedroom, never forgetting to get my alarm set for the next morning. You allow me to stay in bed and answer intern and resident endless pages and phone calls all through the night even though you may be on call the next day. You are loving, kind, thoughtful, supportive, a worthy priesthood holder and exercise that power within our home, and despite how tired or stressed you may be feeling, you never fail to bring a smile to my face when all I want to do is cry...and if I do cry, your supportive shoulder and listening ear are always there! How blessed I am to be your wife. If asked to make a list of the qualities I hoped and looked for in a husband, my best list would have fallen very short of the man that you are. I love and adore you more than I ever imagined possible! You are the love of my life..I can't wait to embark upon the next 10 years of our marriage!

Vacation in Utah...

2009-07-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

Todd and I were able to spend a fabulous week in Utah the first week of June...sad that it has taken me this long to put together a post.

Todd had gone to Utah a few days before me as his vacation started earlier. I was able to fly into Utah early Monday morning and headed straight for lunch with many of my mom's side of the family. Great company and good food...can't ask for a better way to start vacation!

Tuesday was spent enjoying the great outdoors of Willard Bay!

Brady showing off his wakeboarding skills...

Teaching Cannon wakeboarding...

Todd slalom skiing...yummy!

Wednesday was spend with more family and friends....lunch with Judy, Nicole, Mom and the sisters at Pelotons. We then went to dinner at Sonora Grill and bowling at Fat Cats with the Grunanders!

Dinner at Sonora Grill...so good!!!

Jennifer and Christine

Thursday morning I was able to meet with Trauma/SICU/General Surgery group at IMC to discuss future job opportunities. I then met Mom, Grammy and the sisters for lunch at La Ferovia. That afternoon I was able to meet with a general surgery group at McKay-Dee to also discuss future job opportunities while Todd met with an orthopedic group who is actively pursuing him to join their practice when he is done. Then, off for more fun at Willard Bay followed by pizza and cards with Grammy Char...what a fantastic way to spend the day!

Cannon was able to have fun in and out of the water!

Whose legs are more pasty white...mine or Jocey's???

Sadly, I think my leg is twice the size of Jocey's scrawny chicken leg...

Sunbathing Beauties...

Cute Crewy...just adore that little man!

Brady, Laurel and Cannon on the tube...

Todd was able to knock them off...

Friday morning Todd and I made the trip to the salon to be beautified by Aunt Emily...haven't been able to find anyone even half as good at doing my hair in LA! I was then able to spend the afternoon and evening with my dear friends from medical school catching up...oh how blessed I am to have such wonderful friends!

Saturday was spent lunching at Cafe Rio...a vacation must! We then spend Saturday night playing more cards with Grammy Char...absolutely one of my favorite past-times!

Sunday we were able to attend church, enjoy Sunday dinner and then off to the airport and back to work!

Thanks to the Wolthuis and Grunander families for making our visit so wonderful...you always pamper us and we really appreciate it! Can't wait for our next visit in October!!! We miss and love you all more than you can know!

Happy Birthday Emily...a few days late!

2009-07-09T21:01:00.001-07:00

Although my sister Emily's birthday was last week, I did want to let her know how much I love and admire her. She is the most perfect mother and wife..I am in awe of how she is able to keep up with 3 very busy boys, always cook a wonderful meal, her home could be a picture our of a magazine, all while serving her ward and neighbors endlessly!!! Happy Birthday a few days late...so grateful that you are my sister and my friend!

Harbor-UCLA and USC graduations

2009-07-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

Every year in June was are able to attend celebration dinners in honor of the graduating chief residents. Here are a few pictures from our respective program graduations...

USC Orthopedic Surgery Graduation

The "DREAM TRAUMA TEAM"

Danny (2nd year), Adam (chief), Nora (4th year and Todd's trauma chief this year)

Mike (Todd's co-resident) and his fiancee Judy

One of Todd's favorite graduation chiefs, Bobick

Another of Todd's favorite chiefs, Maddhov and co-resident TJ

TJ and Todd's trauma chief, Adam.

Harbor-UCLA General Surgery Graduation

The girls of Harbor General Surgery

My co-residents...Armen, Taryne, Cliff. Missing Matt...

The Famous...Infamous....flip flop of my trauma chief.

He would wear these with bootie covers while on trauma call and walk around the blood covered ER trauma bay....GROSS!!!

My co-resident and dear friend Taryne

Notice someone missing from my graduation dinner...Where is Todd you ask??? At the Angels baseball game sitting right behind the dugout...apparently tickets that just "couldn't be passed up." I think I deserve a pair of shoes for letting him ditch me...how about you???

Happy Birthday Johnny!

2009-06-30T19:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the best brother EVER! You are so sweet, thoughtful and caring...couldn't ask for a more loving and supportive brother! I treasure our phone calls and miss you tons! Sorry this is a day late...work, work, work...what can I say...

Mommy, Daddy, Jocey Come to LA...

2009-06-28T20:08:00.001-07:00

It has taken me a month to get this post completed, but I had to share my pictures of the recent visit of my Mommy, Daddy and Jocey that we were so blessed to have! I absolutely treasure the time that they are able to spend here in LA with us!

We had such a relaxing visit...starting with mani-pedis...even Daddy couldn't resist being pampered!

We spent the following day at Santa Monica Pier...sight seeing and riding the ferris wheel...

Cutest Parents EVER!

We were able to go to the Dodger--Angels interleague game on the only night the dodgers won!!

Downtown LA in the background

LAC-USC hospital in the background...Todd's home away from home!

Miss you all terribly...can't wait for your next visit!

Happy Birthday Grammy and Jocelyn!

2009-06-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the Best Grammy ever!!!

You are so beautiful, loving, kind, supportive and fun!!!

I miss you terribly and wish I was there to spend the day with you,

but know that I am thinking of you!!!

Happy Birthday Jocelyn! Enjoy turing 18 in Europe you lucky girl! You are beautiful, graceful, kind and thoughtful! I adore you and am so blessed to have you as my sister!

Happy Fathers Day!

2009-06-21T11:41:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day! I truly have the most wonderful and fabulous father in the world!!! He is so kind, thoughtful, funny, witty, generous and giving. I have always admired how generous Dad is to not only his own family but also those he knows and may not know. I pray that I may be able to help those around me in the ways that he has! He sacrifices so much and works so very hard to provide for our family! I am so grateful that he and mom are able to visit me in LA so much! Thank you for your testimony and true love of the gospel and the way you honor your priesthood and have always blessed our home! You are always able to bring a smile to my face with your quick wit and humor! I appreciate more than you know your sympathy and understanding when I am frustrated with medicine! I love and appreciate you more than words can express! Thank you for being the best father ever!

Happy Birthday Mommy!!!

2009-05-27T06:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to the most wonderful mother in the entire world! You are so fabulous...the most beautiful, sweet, thoughtful, loving, kind, righteous woman whom I absolutely adore! I wish that I was there to spend the day with you, but am so grateful for the time that I was just able to spend with you in LA and can't wait to get to Utah in just a few days! Thank you for all that you do for me...you are my best friend and I would be absolutlely lost without you! I hope that your day is fantastic because you only deserve the very best! I LOVE YOU!

How TIRED Can You Possibly BE???

2009-05-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

After an extremely busy call night on Friday, not getting home until after 2:00 PM, getting only a very short nap with multiple interruptions I was the picture of exhaustion this past Saturday. Todd had worked all Friday night and Saturday helping our friends move so he was tired as well. Saturday night we were able to drag our disheveled selves out the door in order to get some dinner and a few groceries for Sunday. It wasn't until we had been home for over 3o minutes that we realized that we had come in without any of the groceries...and the grocery store had been our last stop before coming home!!!

Oh well...at least all the food was still cold when we finally got it into the house and put away.

Happy Birthday Laurel and Brady!

2009-05-12T14:08:00.001-07:00

Happy Birthday Laurel (so sorry this a few days late)! Laurel is someone that I truly admire...she never thinks twice about choosing the right and is such an example of righteousness! She is SUPERWOMAN!!! I never know quite how she does everything she does and everything is always done to perfection! She is such a loving wife, mother, sister and daughter...and one of my very best friends! How blessed I am to have Laurel as my sister!!!

Brady...what to say...he is absolutely hysterical. There is never a boring moment if he is around. He is a fantastic husband and father (excluding this past weekend)...I am so glad that he takes such good care of Laurel and my Princess! He is such a hard worker and has truly sacrificed to accomplish his goal of becoming a doctor...now if only I can bring you over from the dark side to the light of surgery!

Todd and I are definitely going to miss you guys...but are so excited for the adventures you have awaiting you!

Happy Mothers Day!

2009-05-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

I would like to take advantage of this special day to honor my precious Mother and Grand mother. How blessed I am to have these two fabulous women in my life!!!

My mother's example of service, unconditional love and kindness know no end. Her support is endless...she has always made me believe that I can accomplish anything I set my mind to and never let me give up even when things were tough! I treasure my phone calls with her and I drive to and from the hospital. Everyone in her presence is made to feel of their importance to her! She is loved and adored by all those who come in contact with her more than she will ever know! Thank you for being the absolutely best wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, and friend and giving us all something to emulate.

I can only become half of the woman that my mother and grandmother are, than I will have succeeded in something in this life.

As I have the blessing and the curse of speaking in sacrament today, I only pray that I can honor all of you as you so deserve...and get by with as few tears as possible...my husband is worried as I was crying just giving him parts of my talk!

MS Walk 2009

2009-04-30T19:58:00.000-07:00

I had the great opportunity of being able to participate in the
MS Walk 2009!

This the Wall Of Champions....names of those suffering from MS are placed on the wall!

I was able to walk with my good friend Kristy! The weather was beautiful...we could not have asked for better! It was so wonderful to walk with ~4000 other people in honor of those with MS. As always, some people were pushed in wheelchairs by their family and friends and I realize how grateful I am that Mom has not been afflicted in such a way!

At the start of the walk...

Along the way...

Thanks to all of you who donated to our team...I really appreciate your support!

Mom...you are the best!

Mamma Mia! and Easter in Utah

2009-04-30T19:38:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago my fabulous husband came home from work one evening and surprised me with tickets to Mamma Mia for the following week. We had such a wonderful time...dinner at Maggiano's (yummy Italian) and then off to the theater! The cast and music were so fun!!! Thanks babe for a great night!

Outside of the theater

From our seats...just off center and only six rows back from the stage...AWESOME!

The day after Mamma Mia I headed to Utah for the Easter weekend. Daddy, Mom, Laurel, Jocelyn and Princess "P" greeted me at the airport. We then met Brady for dinner. Mom and I were able to spend some time shopping at Gateway much to Daddy's delight while awaiting John and Brittney's flight to arrive from Portland.

Unfortunately, Todd was not able to fly out until the next morning and came straight from the airport after a 6:00 AM flight to family pictures...such a sweetie! We spent the morning at the Union Station having our family pictures...hope they turn out, still waiting to see the results!

See, family pictures can be fun!

We then all went out to lunch at Good Wood BBQ and had our annual Easter Egg Hunt at Grandma Chars...with a few weather modifications!

Dylan accepting money to drink a cup of soda that had been made by combining whatever soda was left in everyone's glasses...GROSS! But, he did earn ~$10 for it...and we all thoroughly enjoyed watching him do it!

Dad, Mom and Jocey enjoying the party!

Such a sweet picture...Colton and Cannon thanking Grammy for their Easter Egg prize money!

Crew-ee enjoying his Cream Soda...such a cutie!!!

Easter could not have been more special than it was this year. I am so grateful that we were all able to be in Utah for Paisley Jane's blessing. There is nothing I love more than being able to spend time with my family...not even shopping! How blessed I am...I hope you all know how much I love and adore you!

Princess "P"...what an absolute angel!

I think the look on her face is priceless...and very reminiscent of one her father would pull when annoyed at having to have his picture taken!

Can not wait until we have a picture like this with our own baby!!!

In the meantime, thanks for sharing Paisley with us!!!

A New Car Celebrated at The Melting Pot

2009-04-30T19:29:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a while since I had the time to upload pictures and post about what has been happening in our lives, so get ready cuz here I go...

As you all know, Todd was in a horrible car accident on the 405 freeway about a month ago. The insurance company was quick to total his car out...no shock there. However, to our surprise, once the insurance company determines that your car is past the point of repair you have 5, yes FIVE days to have a new car in your possession or any days past that you are responsible for the cost of your rental car. So, Todd and I were miraculously off on the same Saturday with 2 days left of our 5 day deadline...and off we were on the mission to purchase a new vehicle. Prior to leaving the house, countless hours were spent searching the internet. However, Todd and I had VERY different ideas about what kind of car he should purchase....but hey, are any of you surprised by that??? Much to our amazement...zero arguments, one car dealership with one test drive, and two relatively painless hours of paperwork and phone calls to the credit union in Utah and we found ourselves the proud owners of a new vehicle! As we then found ourselves with hours to waste away on a Saturday none the less, we headed off to celebrate with dinner at The Melting Pot....FABULOUS!!!

In the meantime...I have been in 2...yes TWO...small fender-benders within my parking garage within the last month! With the first accident, both of us were at fault (at least I think so), but Todd and I were forced to pay for the other car to be repaired..thankfully no damage to my car. The other occurred as I was pulling out of our parking garage and on to the street that runs in front of our apartment building where a tiny 1986 Toyota Terrcel was blocked from my view by a large Tahoe and I unfortunately hit the car....this time, insurance was involved as both cars were in need of repair. I must admit I have the most wonderful, understanding husband of all time!!! He was never upset with me either time and was only concerned that I was not injured. He did however, ask that I slow down and try to drive more carefully...you got it babe!!!

It is official that Todd and I have become "BAD LA Drivers". We can only hope that there are no more car accidents in our future as we have had enough the past month to last us a long time!

Stay Tuned...more posts to come very shortly...

Beck and Jer

2009-04-22T10:26:00.000-07:00

Please take note of the new button on my sidebar. As you ask yourself, "Who are Beck and Jer?"...let me share with you a little bit about them.

Jeremy was in my medical school class and is absolutely one of the most wonderful and kind people that I have ever been privileged to know. He and his family has faced some very difficult challenges over the past few years and yet have conquered them with nothing but a smile on their face. Now, he and his wife are trying to adopt a baby and add to their family...the have one son.

His sister-in-law is CJane, whom I know many of you follow and she has also blogged about them in which I agree with everything she has to say about them.
http://blog.cjanerun.com/2009/04/adoption-button.html

So, check out their blog...you never know how you may be able to help their cause...

MS Walk 2009

2009-04-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

In one week, I will be participating in the Walk MS 2009 in Irvine, CA.

I walk in honor of my mother. Check out my team webpage....For My Momma!

https://www.kintera.org/faf/donorReg/donorPledge.asp?ievent=287843&lis=0&kntae287843=4F09D901CED145D4A77E7E66B8D558AA&supId=253746926

Happy Birthday Brittney!

2009-03-19T13:26:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Brittney! So glad that you are my sister-in-law...and that you can put up with Johnny! You are such a sweet and fun girl and we are truly lucky to have you as a part of our family! Good luck with the rest of your boards!

A Picture Worth 1,000 Words...

2009-03-17T15:18:00.000-07:00

His former front bumper...had to be removed from the trunk for the picture.

A view of the driver's side...can you say "crunch"

Front end, driver's side

I don't think you are supposed to be able to see engine components from this view!

Tail end, passengers side...also a victim of the median!

The driver's side door would only open ~10 inches

The airbag that we owe much of our gratitude!

...notice the styrofoam on the floor.

Just a glimpse of the damage even the hub cab suffered!

Counting My Blessings...

2009-03-16T13:35:00.000-07:00

Todd and I are both suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after the events of this past weekend. He and I had met some friends in Long Beach to have dinner on Friday evening. We had both driven because at 7:00pm, Todd was still at USC having had his afternoon clinic run late and it was faster for him to meet me in Long Beach than to drive across town to me and then to Long Beach. We had a fantastic dinner and enjoyed the company of our good friends. We started our trek home heading north on the 405 a little bit after midnight. He and I were talking to pass the time. As we were just passing the LAX airport, we both noticed a car pulled off onto the right hand shoulder facing the wrong direction. Shortly after, a car in the fast lane quickly pulled in between me and Todd and quickly cut across all 4 lanes of traffic. As he did so, Todd had to quickly slam on his brakes which then sent him into a tailspin. Todd then proceeded to skid across 2 lanes of traffic and hit the cement median head on, bounce off and spin in a counter-clockwise direction hitting the back-end which then sent him spinning again to facing the right direction and skidding forward along the median. I was unfortunate to witness this all from my rear-view mirror as well as hear the distinctive sound of smashing metal. Todd uttered and moaned a few words following the crash and then the phone was dead. I was driving as quickly as I could to get to the next exit in order to turn around and get back to him. I had called 911 only to be put on hold for over 5 minutes while "waiting for an available dispatcher." Approximately 10 minutes following the accident, I was back to Todd and soon found that he was alright. It was still another 10 minutes before the first highway patrolman arrived and another 10 minutes before fire and paramedics arrived. The north-bound 405 was temporarily shut down so that the police could push Todd's non-functional car over to the right shoulder and await a tow truck. His car is totaled. Even more upsetting is the fact that the other driver got away, never even having stopped after causing this accident.

Todd is doing well. It is an absolute MIRACLE that he was not injured. He walked away with only bumps and bruises. I truly know that there were angels watching over and protecting him that night. How grateful I am for my precious husband, whom without I would be utterly lost.

Rental Car: $25/day
Price for a totaled 2006 Toyota Camry: $12,000
New 4-door sedan: $30,000
Watching your husband walk away from a horrific car accident: priceless

Happy #31 Birthday Babe!!!

2009-03-10T14:31:00.001-07:00

Happy 31st Birthday to my amazing husband! Thank you for being the fabulous man that you are! Thank you for tolerating my crazy...and loving me in spite of it! Thank you for your endless love and support...I would be absolutely lost without you! Thank you for being the laundry and cleaning fairy...I can't image how I would ever have clean clothes without you! You are truly the best and my life is better because of you! I treasure every moment, day, year with you...and love you more and more!!!

Here are just a few fun pictures of the birthday boy taken during the past year!

Playing cards during vacation to Utah...Todd cheats terribly!!!

Todd and Daddy at a Seattle Mariners game!

Todd's "heart" in San Francisco...

The always "Fabulous Fashionista"...at the pool in Seattle

His enthusiasm for my method of packing...and the endless luggage required!

Enjoying a day at the beach...reading the "Handbook of Fractures"

Again, with my luggage at the end of vacation...resorting to wearing my hat to get it all to the car!

MS Awareness Week

2009-03-03T13:47:00.001-08:00

March 2-8, 2009 is MS awareness week. All of you who follow this blog know someone who suffers from the disease...my beautiful mother. Although you would not know by watching her, this is something that she has had to deal with now for about 10 years. You will never hear a complaint about how or what she is feeling or struggling with. She will never let you know if she is tired or not feeling well. She is the first to volunteer to serve all those around her, never thinking of herself.

Every year at this time, 600 MS walks are held around the country in order to raise awareness and funding for MS research. I will be participating in the MS walk either in Utah or California this year. If possible, I encourage all of you to look into the walk in your area. You can walk with your family in honor of my mother and those others you may know who also suffer from the disease or serve as a volunteer along the walk route. I had the privilege of doing this a few years ago with my family...it was very touching to see those so stricken by the disease that they are now wheelchair bound, being pushed along the walk route by family and friends. How fortunate we are that my mother has not progresed to this point, and I pray that she never will.

Thanks Mom for your example of service and gratitude. Thank you for teaching me to always try to look outside of myself to those around me. I hope that you know how much I love and admire you!!!

Desperate Times Call For Desperate Meausures

2009-03-02T21:10:00.000-08:00

During a recent visit home to Utah to attend the funeral of Todd's Grandmother, I was suffering from a horrible cold. However desperate times call for desperate measures...and I was desperate not to miss out on my Precious Princess Paisley. So, when a dish towel and clothes pin offered a way to cuddle my sweetie, I couldn't resist!

Look at that pearl bracelet...already, a girl with a taste for precious jewels...I think she is already taking after her favorite auntie!!!

Ila Jane Grunander

2009-02-22T13:06:00.001-08:00

Our dear, sweet Ila Jane Grunander passed away on February 17, 2009. She had not been in the physical health that she desired for the past few years and we all recognized what a struggle that was for her. Despite not feeling well, she always greeted you with a smile and hug. She always was eager to hear about everything going on in our lives. And she never failed to ask how my parents were doing. There is definitely a great loss in the Grunander family, but how grateful we are for the time we had with her and the influence that she had on all of us.

Todd and I were fortunate to be able to leave work on such short notice and travel to Utah to be with his family and attend the viewing and funeral.

Todd and his Grandma

Me, Todd and Jennifer

The Grunander Family

Our precious Grandpa Grunander

Vacation...HOORAY!!!

2009-02-15T09:10:00.000-08:00

I just finished a much-needed 10-day vacation. I was able to fly to Utah on Friday, 2/6/09 and spend the following week with my fabulous family. My mom and Laurel met me at the airport and I was FINALLY able to introduce myself to Princess Paisley (this is what I have named her). We meet Daddy, Brady and Jocelyn for dinner at Cafe Rio...I have to eat here every time I am in town because I literally crave the pork! The rest of the evening was just spent hanging with the family at home...

Princess Paisley and me catching a little shut-eye that night...

Saturday was dubbed "Daddy Day"...the rule was that we were going to let Daddy plan the day...however, with all us girls you can imagine how some of the day was spent...that's right...SHOPPING! We ate lunch that afternoon and then shopped while waiting to see the movie Taken.

Laurel and the Princess enjoying lunch...

Sunday was such a great day. We were able to go to church and have a fantastic Sunday dinner thanks to Mom and her outstanding cooking. That night we visited with Judy, Bart B., Jared and Ashley and their boys...so fun!

Me and the Princess after church...

There was nearly a fight between us and the Primary presidency about who got to hold Paisley during the first hour of church...sadly, we didn't get her until Sunday School.

Monday we drove to Idaho to spend the night with Emily and the boys. We had a blast just visiting and singing to the IPod on the drive up.

Jocelyn always entertaining us!

Mom trying to maintain her sanity while driving through the snow and listen to my music!

The Beauties...

The Princess slept the entire drive...such a darling angel!

Once we got to Idaho Falls, we headed straight to Johnny Carinos for dinner.

Cutey Crew-boy!

Emily, Greg and the Boys...thanks Greg for letting us invade!

We then headed home for a night of "The Bachelor"...Greg came home from playing basketball, saw us all in his bed and made a beeline for his friends house...

The next morning we hung out at the house and played with the boys and then hit a few boutiques before lunch and the drive home.

Cannon demonstrating how he can "fly like Superman"

Never a dull moment with this little guy around!

Two of my very favorite boys!

Wednesday morning was spent playing cards with Grammy Char, Mindy, Lorin (thanks for playing hookie to join us), Aunt Emily, Mommy, with Laurel and Paisley meeting us a few hours in. Devin joined us for a quick lunch. That night my mom and I were able to go to the Laker-Jazz game with my parent's season tickets. As you can imagine, none of the brothers-in-law were very happy to hear that the tickets had been reserved for ME! Mommy and I had an absolute blast! Plus, just being that close to Kyle Korver is fabulous...man is he hot!!! And best of all, the Jazz were victorious! I may live in Los Angeles, but if you are a Jazz fan it is worse than kissing your sista to cheer for the Lakers. Plus, we have a few Clippers players that we have gotten to know who live in our apartment building so we gotta cheer for them...

Brady demonstrating his "football hold" for baby Paisley

Teaching Princess Paisley the wonders of Internet shopping. I have already informed Brady of her very appropriate Princess name addition and that she will be treated as such.

Me and my Mommy...isn't she gorgeous!

D-Will shooting a free throw near the end of the very close game...

Kyle....I Love You!

Kyle....I Love You Even More!

Boo.....

Evidence of a hard-fought win!

Thursday I spent the day getting my hair done (thanks to my wonderful Aunt Emily I am a "true" red-head once again and that nasty blonde that is starting to take over is just a memory). I then was able to spend the evening with my amazing medical school friends Amber and Alissa....oh how I miss not living closer to them!

Friday morning we went to Salt Lake...you guessed it...a little more shopping. We then enjoyed lunch at the Cheesecake Factory and then off to LA I was headed....however, not back to work. My wonderful, adoring, perfect husband whisked me away to a resort in Newport Beach Harbor for a romantic Valentine's Day celebration. Once getting to the hotel, we couldn't face leaving after enduring the Friday night LA traffic so we had a wonderful dinner of room service in bed while watching the 3-point and Dunk contest as part of the NBA All-Star weekend.

Only in Newport Beach do the parking meters along the side of the road accept credit cards.

Saturday we slept in, ate a wonderful breakfast, and watched movies in bed. We then journeyed out to see "Confessions of a Shopaholic" and enjoy a walk on the beach at sunset.

Sunday morning again was spent sleeping in, watching movies and eating a great breakfast. Then it was back to reality and back to LA.....

Thank you Babe for letting me go to Utah for a week without you and spend some much-needed time with my mommy and daddy, sisters and of course Princess Paisley. Thank you for being the most wonderful, amazing, loving, adoring husband that you are. I am head-over-heels in love with you and become even more so everyday!

Fabulous Friends!

2009-02-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

When I reflect upon my time in medical school, it isn't the studying or rotations that come to mind. My first thoughts are always of my precious friends Alissa, Amber and Rebecca (left-->right in the picture above) without whom I would have never survived those difficult yet delightful four years. We all quickly became friends early into our first year. The library to much unhappiness always knew of our presence as we couldn't go more than a few minutes without laughing about something or other. I still remember fondly studying pharmacology during the spring of our first year and the sayings we made up to remember the drug...what it treated...mechanism of action...side effects. A table full of candy and snacks while trying to study 8-10 hours a day for 6 weeks while preparing for Step 1. Learning the ins--and--outs of physical exams while each taking our rightful turn as the patient. And let us not forget to mention...the oh so often and always needed shopping escape!

A few weekends ago my dear friend Amber was able to visit from Utah. Amber is in her last year of OB-Gyn residency and will be starting a laparoscopic gynecology fellowship in Michigan this summer. She is truly my shopping soul-sister! I miss her dearly but treasure the time we do get to spend together when I visit Utah and when she can make an escape to Cali for a shopping excursion.

Amber arrived on Friday afternoon. I was able to share her first Pinkberry experience...glad it lived up to the hype! That night Todd, Amber and I drove to Sherman Oaks (30 minutes north of LA) to have dinner with our good friend Rebecca and her husband Dave. Although Rebecca lives only ~45 minutes away from me, it is all too infrequent that we see each other.

Alissa...we missed you! Can't wait to see you while I am in Utah soon!

Rebecca, Amber and Me...

Todd and Dave

Saturday morning Amber and I were up early and on our way to Orange County to go shopping at the mecca they call South Coast Plaza. Two shopping divas and seven hours of uninterrupted shopping (not a stop was made to eat or use the bathroom) and still about 1/3 of the mall was left unexplored. We then hurried home to relax for a short time and then we were off to Santa Monica with Todd to enjoy dinner at a great Italian restaurant along the ocean front.

Sunday we spent the day talking and reminiscing to the evenings of nicknaming all of the potential wives on "The Bachelor" while watching an episode from this current season. And then all too quickly, it was time for Amber to return to delivering babies and removing those uteruses now misbehaving.

Thanks for taking the time to come visit...can't wait for my visit to Utah soon!

Happy Birthday Daddy!!

2009-01-24T12:51:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday to the most wonderful father! He is the most loving, generous, smart, dedicated, witty, funny dad. How blessed we are as a family to have him. He is the hardest worker and never thinks of himself, always giving everything possible to those around him. He never fails to be able to make everyone in the room smile and laugh because of his quick wit. I treasure so much being able to talk with him about medicine and know he will understand my fulfillment and frustration. The memories from our family vacations are priceless...and how grateful I am for his continued generosity to our family in providing for trips together and for visits to California. I am so blessed to have a father who honors his priesthood and observe him use it in our home many times while growing up and still today. He was my constant traveling companion to watch Todd run for Weber State for which we both truly enjoyed...especially Todd since he was easier on him after a tough race than I was! I know Todd considers him a second father as well as a dear friend...and I couldn't ask for anything better! Thank you Dad for being you....WE LOVE YOU!

The look on his face is fantastic...

Countless hours have been spent shopping with 4 daughters...many of which he has financed and never complains about!

G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S

2009-01-15T17:15:00.000-08:00

3 days and 2 nights without sleep while trying to keep 1 critically ill patient alive including 3 separate codes during one of which emergently opening the patients abdomen and completely emptying his entire small bowel and part of his colon onto his belly and shocking the Cedars ICU nurses and residents as they had never seen such a thing before and this is the result:

In the "in-famous" words of my sister Emily: Don't hate me because I am beautiful.

Hope you enjoy this glamorous view into the life they call "residency".

And yes, this is how I looked the last 36 of the 60 hours at the hospital.

Christmas...at both of our HOMES!

2009-01-03T19:45:00.000-08:00

Todd and I had a WONDERFUL Christmas! He and I both worked on Christmas Eve day, but were able to spend the evening together. We went out for a quick dinner at CPK and then opened presents with each other. This year, Todd and I have been able to earn extra money working moonlighting shifts, so I was able to spoil my most fantastic husband...something in years past he has given up in order to provide me with fabulous presents!

Our Christmas Tree

He was given clothes (not so exciting for him), a new IPod, and his most prized gift...a Playstation 3!

Showing off his "loot"

Todd never fails to surprise me...I had received a very nice purse for my Birthday/Christmas. However, he let me do some shopping and even went so far as to wrap the things that I had bought for myself. He then hid a small box under the Christmas tree skirt that he gave to me later in the evening...beautiful black pearl earrings that match a necklace he gave me for my 30th birthday! He is the best gift-giver ever...all husbands should be so good!

We then spent the remainder of the evening watching the classic holiday movie...Lampoon's Christmas Vacation!

We both worked Christmas morning and then spent the afternoon listening to Christmas music while preparing a turkey dinner that we were blessed to share with our sweet sister missionaries. They shared a beautiful Christmas message about the Savior and brought an amazing spirit of peace and gratitude into our home. The rest of the evening was crazy...we did laundry and packed to leave for SLC early the next morning. There was much anxiety and stress as we learned at 8PM our time that the SLC airport was closed due to snow and it was unsure as to when it would re-open. Todd and I decided we would get up and go to the airport for our 6AM departure and prayed that the runways would be clear....PRAYERS ANSWERED!

We arrived sleepy but safely to Utah early morning on the 26th. We immediately went to visit with Todd's grandparents and then had a nice dinner and belated "Christmas Day" celebration with Todd's family.

My 4-inch high heels were not what you call "snow-friendly"

Todd with Grandpa and Grandma Grunander

Todd, Jason and Mallory anxious to open their gifts!

Cute picture of Jen, Heidi and Andrew....sorry, couldn't get it to flip the right direction.

Carl and Christine....thanks for a wonderful Christmas.

The evening of the 26th was spent opening gifts with my family. John and Brittney had also flown in that same day and it was so great to have everyone together!!!

What an angel...so beautiful!!!

Dad enjoying his new office chair and Colts shirt!

We were definitely spoiled...thank you Mom and Dad!

The 27th was spent with my family. All of the boys spent the morning playing basketball and trying not to kill each other. The rest of the day was spent in a fierce competition of Madden Football on the X-Box. The girls knew the better way to spend the day...shopping the after-Christmas sales (as if we didn't get enough Christmas presents already).

"Shopped Til We Dropped"

Shoes...always bring a smile to my face!!!

The Wolthuis/Herbert Clans were nice enough to delay the traditional Christmas Eve party until the 27th when we could all be there! Thank you everyone for waiting...it made Christmas!

Bart and Jared in the Grandad Bart Memorial Jumpsuit...belt not included!

Devin, Eileen, Gwen and Emily singing "Must Be Santa....Snotty Nose"

Cannon, Emily, John, Brittney and Elle with their presents for the Left-Right game...

Lorin with his present...a size 12 shoe...only 2 sizes too big. Too bad Devin stole it from you.

Todd couldn't have been happier than with his present...$5.

Emily showing off the gift she brought...a sleeve tattoo...

which Brady ended up with...and wore to church the next day!

As if the sleeve tattoo wasn't popular...the most prized gift of the evening was

Hannah-Montana wig...

What I would look like as a blonde...I finally fit in to the family!

"John-celyn"

You can't help but adore this precious woman!

Sunday couldn't have been better...sleep in, great breakfast, attending church, Sunday dinner, and visiting with both families.

Monday we went down to SLC to eat dinner and walk through Temple Square...oh how I miss living on first avenue and being able to see the Capital Building and Temple Square from our balcony! The weather was perfect, the lights were amazing, the company the best!

Jocelyn is always gorgeous...Cannon refusing to smile...oh how I love that guy!

Brady enjoying his gift to Laurel...the IPod touch.

Me and my FAVORITE brother!

Emily and Colton...oh how I love that guy!

The True Meaning of Christmas!

Of course we couldn't leave Utah without a day of cards/games and Cafe Rio, which is how we spent Tuesday before heading to the airport to return to LA.

Thank You to both families for making our visit so wonderful!! We are so blessed to have your love and support!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!

Away from Home on Christmas....

2008-12-22T16:41:00.000-08:00

What could be more depressing than being away from home on Christmas you ask???

Answer: Being away from home while working at a Jewish Hospital. No signs of Christmas to be seen except for a few lights hung on the side of the walkway connecting the employee parking lot to the main hospital...of which, only about ~1/3 of the stings actually light up...almost more depressing than if the lights weren't hung at all!

I did come into the ICU today to be greeted by a lighted menora celebrating the beginning of Hanukkah. So, I guess I will pull out my dreidel and join in the festivities....or maybe just go home and sit in front of my beatifully lit Christmas tree, look at my nativity set, listen to The Mormon Tabernacle Choir singing songs rejoicing in the birth of our Savior and reflect on Christ and His meaning in my life...

And yes, I will be away from home on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, however Todd and I will be celebrating and exchanging gifts on Christmas Eve and have the blessing of feeding our dear sister missionaries on Christmas Day (best way to spend the day if not at home in Utah).

How I spent my Thanksgiving....LA style...

2008-11-27T21:39:00.000-08:00

Todd and I spent this Thanksgiving in Los Angeles....and yes, we both actually had the day off and were able to spend it with each other. One of the residents that Todd works with was kind enough to invite us to have dinner with him and his wife's family. We were very excited for the prospect of a home-cooked meal since we both worked last year and enjoyed a late evening dinner at a restaurant. Todd grew up eating Thanksgiving at Snowbird and in recent years has just come to appreciate all that a Thanksgiving at home has to offer....especially the late night leftover sandwiches on yummy homemade rolls!

So, Thanksgiving morning came. I blissfully slept in while Todd went in to the hospital around 7:00AM to make rounds. Being the sweet, wonderful, adoring man that he is, he brought breakfast home with him which I got enjoy while still in bed! We left our apartment a little before noon to venture the 70 miles to Temecula, California, for our 2:00PM dinner. The first hour went well with very little traffic, however that all came to a screeching halt around 1:00PM ~15 miles outside of Corona, California. Over the next TWO HOURS we moved a mere FOUR MILES! By 3:00PM and still 35 miles away from our final destination with no end of traffic in sight, we finally accepted that a home-cooked Thanksgiving meal would not be our fate this year and we turned around and headed for home, arriving back around 4:00PM. After drowning our sorrows in half-melted pie which had been in the backseat of our car for our 4 hour journey to no where, we strapped on our feed-bags and headed back to the trusty Stinky Rose in Beverly Hills for the 400-clove garlic turkey and mashed potatoes that we feasted on last year!

Thank goodness for satellite radio and good tunes to pass the time!

"See...this is my happy, driving...I mean sitting...in LA traffic face!"

All that matters is that we were able to spend the day TOGETHER!

Hope that you all had a wonderful, home-cooked turkey with homemade rolls and left overs kind of Thanksgiving Day.

Two more and counting before we are home for Thanksgiving for good!

The Magic Number "31"...

2008-11-15T16:25:00.000-08:00

As most of you know, that last two birthdays have been quite traumatic for me. If asked my age and I know that you truly don't know...I will still respond "29"...very silly, kind of embarrassing, I know...sad but true! Maybe it is because I truly can't remember where my 20s went... aside from undergrad, medical school, residency.... Maybe it is because I can't justify feeling so old and tired...those 31+ hours in a row every 3 days aren't good for the mind, soul, or bags under your eyes.

However, I have a new-found love for the #31, my current age...

As of today, I have 31 months and 31 days left of residency...let the countdown begin!!!

Happy Birthday Crew!!!

2008-11-14T13:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Crew! What a happy, sweet and fun little boy that you are! Crew never fails to greet me with a huge smile and laugh despite the months that may go inbetween us being able to see each other! I can't think of a better traveler than this little guy! His face just melts your heart! And who can resist him when he says "stop" and "dog"...

Happy 1st Birthday Crew!

We Love You!

Is this what you call family fun???

2008-11-02T13:41:00.000-08:00

New lesson learned....
you can buy an airline ticket, get from Beverly Hills to Marina del Rey and a suitcase "packed", to the airport, on a plane and to Utah in less than 6 hours.....read on to see how I learned this the hard way...

Phone call from Laurel crying hysterically on Friday 10/24/08 afternoon around 3:30pm...
"I am really worried about Dad. His nurse found him in his office on the floor after trying to book a case and with slurred speech exclaiming he couldn't see and had arm weakness. Mom is taking him home right now, he thinks he just needs to sleep "IT" off (keep in mind this was all communicated by him with SLURRED speech)."

Me in the middle of the ICU trying to keep a patient alive..."WHAT??? WHAT??? GOING HOME??? He is having a STROKE....and at this point I am nearly having a stroke of my own....YOU AND MOM MUST GET HIM TO THE HOSPITAL RIGHT NOW...TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE!!! GO TO THE ER....DEMAND STROKE PROTOCOL BE INITIATED!!!"

In my own tears and hysterics, quick phone call made to Mom who thankfully at this point had somehow convinced Dad that he was going to the hospital to be checked out after receiving a frantic phone call from Johnny prior to me getting through.

Quick phone call to Todd who is performing a procedure with the following message relayed to him by an intern...."Your wife is on the phone....I think something is wrong because she doesn't sound so good. Father having a stroke...maybe??? Leaving you, going to Utah, doesn't know when she will be back." Intern to me..."I guess I will have him call you when he is done..." Gee, thanks for being so helpful....glad that MD degree is serving you well...

While trying to check in at the airport, quick phone call to the ER doctor arranging Dad's care....
ER doc..."So, I understand you are a physician and want to talk to me. Can you tell my your training background so I know at what level I can communicate with you on so you can understand what is happening?"
Me..."general surgeon, subspecialty training in trauma and surgical critical care, currently helping to run a neuro/stroke ICU. I am sure I can understand anything you need to tell me....after all I did finish intern year and that is likely YOUR level of understanding...."
As you can imagine, the remainder of our conversation was quite contentious....lesson to you ER doctor for your future safety....don't mess with a red-headed female general surgeon while you are working her father up for a stroke...

Several patient in the ICU actively trying to die, two interns on call in the ICU....still not quite sure how the patients ultimately faired.....

As I started this blog, I got on the internet and had an airline ticket purchased in less than 5 minutes, somehow managed to drive the 20 miles from Beverly Hills to Marina del Rey all while sobbing on the phone to Grandma Char and Emily, somehow threw some sort of clothing assortment into a suitcase in under 10 minutes (as you all know that is an accomplishment in and of itself for me as I usually take days to finalize my packing prior to leaving town), called a cab to take me to the airport and was on a plane arriving in Utah and to Ogden Regional Medical Center in under 6 hours.

My family and I are truly blessed as Dad's symptoms quickly resolved and he improved! He was even able to make the rest of us laugh about the incident that night while visiting him in the hospital...what would we do without our precious Daddy???? A question I never again want to contemplate!!!

I am so eternally grateful for the family that I have been blessed with!!! I have absolutely the best parents, siblings, husband and extended family on the face of the earth!!!! My siblings and I were able to all quickly pull together providing support not only to Dad and Mom but also to each other...although I do not tell you all enough, I love you so much!!! Grandma was able to calm me down enough to prevent me from having my own trauma while trying to get to Utah in such a rush! Todd was so wonderful in sending me away not knowing when I would come home and calling as often as possible to offer his love and support from a distance as he was not able to leave and come to Utah with me! What a peaceful feeling I am left with at the overwhelming support I am surrounded by! I must also express my feelings of love and gratitude for the gospel, the priesthood and the worthy men who honor it!!!

Dad, don't you think there are better ways of gathering your family together for a weekend of "family fun"???

San Francisco...A Trip Back Home...

2008-10-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Todd and I were able to travel from Utah to San Francisco and spend five days there while I attended a surgical conference. I absolutely loved the year that I was able to spend living there while doing my internship at UCSF. For me, this was truly a visit back home. My dear husband on the other hand, does not have such "fuzzy" feelings regarding the quick trips he would make to SF while completing his last year of medical school in SLC.

We flew out of SLC early Sunday morning during a wicked blizzard and arrived to beautiful weather in SF....October is the best time of the year there! We drove straight from the airport to Candlestick Park for the 49ers vs Eagles game. We had a blast! Our tickets were on the 5th row up from the 49ers home endzone. We were surrounded by crazy fans who have had those tickets for years! The game was awesome and exciting, however the Eagles ended up victorious...hard to be sad when you like both teams!

A view of the field from our seats!

Nice behind McNabb...I love him!!!

Coach Andy Reid...a fellow mormon and good guy

O'Sullivan back to pass...

Just enjoying the game and our surroundings!

A view of the final score...high scoring and very entertaining!

The dejected team after a tough loss...

A view of Steve Young's retired jersey...man is he a hottie!!!

A view of the field from just below our seats right after the game...

Following the game, Todd and I drove around the baseball park and the financial district...our old stomping grounds!

Our old apartment. We lived on the 10th floor and had a

perfect view of the Bay Bridge and water from our living room!

While living in San Francisco, I was obsessed with Nob Hill....the view, the cable cars... Todd and I were able to stay at the Fairmont atop Nob Hill during our trip.

Monday was spent at the conference, but that night Todd and I walked down to Union Square for some shopping and sight-seeing. As most of you can imagine, Union Square was a place I spent much of my free time enjoying!!! On our walk from Nob Hill down, many begging homeless people were passed. One was even holding a sign, "Need a Hooker, please give money!" I was dying to take a picture, however couldn't justify contributing to his cause.

Right in front of Nordstrom on Market Street, an elderly man holds this sign and yells.

A similar aged man next to him has a sign about "sinful sex".

They have been there since we lived there...

The following pictures were all taken from the same street corner. Man I miss this city!!!

After our time shopping, Todd and I ate dinner at an Italian restaurant near our old apartment overlooking the Embarcadero and the Bay Bridge. I had my camera, but didn't stop to take any pictures.

Tuesday again was spent at meetings during the day. That night Todd and I met up with some of the other residents from Harbor-UCLA for a great steak dinner at Mortons in Union Square.

I became a true "city" gal on the trip down from Nob Hill.

I wore flip flops and carried my heels. Here I am in front of Saks...

We took advantage of the cable car to spare my footsies even with my

flip flops. I had always wanted to ride them and never did

the entire year we lived there!

The only "heart" that Todd leaves in San Francisco...

Being serenaded while waiting from the cable car after dinner.

Wednesday after the meetings finished, Todd and I drove out near the SF VA Hospital and to the beach. We ate dinner at a fantastic restaurant we found literally the night before we moved to LA...

A view of Golden Gate Bridge from the VA parking lot.

Quite the scenery to enjoy during the few spare moments you had to eat lunch!

The Cliff House restaurant and it's spectacular surroundings!

Thursday we spent time sight-seeing before heading to the airport.

The Golden Gate Bridge...

Coit Tower with Bay Bridge in the background from the top of Lombard Street.

Lombard Street...one of my favorite places in the city!

No trip to SF is complete without stopping at Ghiradelli Square for sundays!

One of our favorite parts about SF was our ward.

Who can forget the homeless people coming into sacrament, leaving multiple times within the hour to go out for a smoke in front of the building...

How about the man dressed as a woman who was never lacking comments to contribute to the Relief Society lesson...

The journey to get to church was also never without excitement.

One Sunday while Laurel was visiting, we had to brave the Gay Rights Parade...

Every Sunday we had to pass through the sinful city's perception of Eden to get to ours...

Now to our Garden of Eden in the wicked city...

The church sits on the corner of a neighborhood surrounded by apartment buildings.

The parking lot can only hold ~12 cars so it was always an adventure trying to

find street parking and get into church on time!

And of course, we had to drive by UCSF and SF General Hospitals.

On the little terrace you can see with the trees, the homeless people would sit and wait for you to through your lunch tray away and then go and eat whatever you had left on it. It only took me a short time to realize it was better to just hand off my unfinished plate than to make them dig through the trash for it. You also quickly learned not to eat from the salad bar after seeing the homeless people eating out of it with their bare hands...I didn't eat much when I rotated there!

The Bay Bridge and Embarcadero just a block away from our apartment...

No vacation is complete without documenting Todd managing our luggage...

Hey, I was gone for 2 weeks....what's a girl to do....wear something twice???

I truly have such fond memories of our year living in SF. I am one who leaves a small piece of their heart in the city. It was so fun to be back as a tourist and do some of the things I never got to do while living there. I can't wait for the next visit back!!!

Vacation to Utah...Continued

2008-10-16T20:32:00.000-07:00

The remainder of our time in Utah was met with much mixed emotion after the sudden passing of my Aunt Susan. My mom, Laurel, Judy, Bart and myself were able to spend some time grieving with her dear family as well as my immediate family on Wednesday, the day following her death.

That Thursday was a day of appointments....dentist and hair salon....both must-stops every trip home. What would we do without our dear Aunt Emily who keeps us all looking so good! Thursday night was a great dinner at Union Station with Todd's mom, dad, sister Jennifer and her darling little boy Ashton, as well as my mommy and daddy, Jocelyn, Laurel and Brady. So sad that I don't have any pictures, especially since I had my camera with me!

Friday was a fun day spent with great families! We lunched that afternoon at a place my family kept raving about right along the Ogden River with Mom, Grammy, Todd, me, Jocelyn, as well as with Jennifer and Ashton. The food and atmosphere, especially the company, was great...too bad it was too cold to eat outside and really enjoy the scenery.

How I do so love and absolutely adore these two fantastic, beautiful ladies!!!

On our way home from lunch we had to drive along Fruitland Drive and admire the handiwork of Laurel and Mom as well as a few men from the ward. One of the ward-members husband's has been deployed in Iraq for 18 months and arrived home to a welcoming flag-lined street!

18 flags in the yard, one for each month Brent was gone.

Unfortunately I don't have a picture the flags along the road....

Friday evening we had a nice dinner at my favorite place, Maddox, with Todd's family.

The Grunander clan...minus me

Saturday Todd and I were able to sleep in and then watch the BYU--New Mexico game with my mom and dad. We all had tickets to go, however Dad was on call and couldn't leave Ogden so we decided to not brave the cold, snowing weather and all watch it on tv. That night we had a great game of cards...too bad my husband has to cheat and win every time!!!

Mom and Laurel enjoying their good hands!

This picture isn't too far off from the truth...CHEATER!

While we played cards, Brady took the following poll:

"Who would you rather break their leg: Max Hall (BYU quaterback) or me???"

I think his feelings and ego were a little bruised when it was a unanimous vote for Brady to break his leg....and without question a very easy choice! Although, that was before this last BYU-TCU game. Maybe you should redo that poll, the answer my be different...

Sad but True...fell asleep at the table after the last hand of cards.

Thanks Wolthuis and Grunander families for all the great memories!!! Already counting down to the next vacation....December 26 isn't that far away!!!

Susan Wolthuis Williams

2008-10-08T20:29:00.000-07:00

My dear aunt passed away unexpectedly on October 7, 2008. She will truly be missed by her family and friends. She was a beautiful woman inside and out. She was a wonderful and loving daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. She was a shining example of Christ-like love. She knew what was right and always stood up for her beliefs. She was a peacemaker. She was kind, thoughtful and generous. My love and prayers go out to Richard, Richie and Julie and Ruby, Whitney and Steven, Micah and Chelsea.

Vacation to Utah...The Return to Sanity...

2008-10-07T16:12:00.001-07:00

After the past 3 weeks straight with no fewer than 4 calls/pages every night leading to an extremely tired and very cranky SICU fellow, combined with not having spent no more than 3 hours total with Todd in the past month, we are off on a week of vacation in Utah and it could not have come at a better time!

Todd and I left LA for home on Friday, October 3. No excitement on this flight unlike my last...Danny Glover sat in front of me last month from LA to SLC and was causing a scene fighting with the flight attendant about turning his phone off and taking out his earbud in order to listen to the rules about sitting in the exit row. Todd and I actually had a row to ourselves and within minutes I was asleep not to awaken until we landed.

Todd's dad picked us up at the airport and we headed to South Salt Lake for a visit with Ed and Ila, Todd's grandparents.

Three generations of Grunander men...

Saturday we enjoyed a nice day of conference. Greg, Emily and the boys were down from Idaho Falls and it is always so fun to be with their family.

Cannon and Crew were both sporting black eyes. Crew had pulled himself up to a chair and then fell hitting the corner of the chair. Cannon's story however is much more interesting. He was playing catch with two other little boys at Colton's last football games. One of the boys became angry when Cannon didn't throw him the ball, walked right up to him and socked him in the eye.

Although hard to see in this picture, the entire area under

Cannon's right eye is black, blue and an awful color of green.

The shiner Crew has looks more like bad purple

eyeshadow gone wrong all over his right eyelid.

We were able to give Laurel a baby shower on Saturday night while all of the men were at priesthood session of General Conference. We spent most of the afternoon preparing with all of the girls...it made me very grateful for my sisters and the fun we are able to have together. We quickly learned that any Martha Stewart recipe that Emily has shouldn't be used unless she has personally made the item at least once before. However, two cupcake and icing recipes later, all of the salads and desserts were delicious!

Emily never fails to be the life of the party.

Could little Laurel just try to look pregnant...she is 6 months along after all!

The shower was fantastic. It was fun to be with so many family members and visit. Laurel got some great presents....we all can't wait for little Paisley to make her appearance!!! Once all of the guests were gone, the stress of the day led Mom to hit the bottle!!! An intervention is currently underway, however with little success...

Now Jocelyn wasn't dressed this fancy for our party. She went to Fremont High's Homecoming Dance that night with her boyfriend Cameron.

Sunday was completely relaxing and peaceful again enjoying all of the General Conference talks. Todd traveled to Idaho Falls with his family to visit his Grandmother and Aunt.

We spent Sunday evening eating a wonderful meal of fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy thanks to my dear mom. Todd's friend from medical school and his wife were able to join us for dinner and our favorite past-time....playing cards with Grammy Char.

Monday my mom and I spent part of the afternoon in the DMV so that I could renew my license. I am proud to say that I have yet to get nor will I claim myself as a California resident by getting a drivers license there. The time at the DMV was quite entertaining as we joined the ranks of all of the finest in white trash that Ogden has to offer. You will be glad to know that Mom and I were the only ones in nice clothes, with a full set of teeth...our own of fake...and who didn't smell like smoke and alcohol. The best show was the illegal Mexican girl that spoke no English trying to obtain a license. She approached the desk and rattled off something in Spanish only to have the worker respond, "I don't speak Spanish." The same dialogue occurred a few more times before the Mexican girl finally called her friend up to the counter who spoke only a few broken words of English. Unfortunately for the girl, No VISA = NO LICENSE!

We then met up with the family for dinner at Texas Roadhouse and an evening of shopping with the girls. When we first ventured into the Newgate Mall...aka Ogden's only shopping area...I commented on how difficult it would be to leave LA shopping. However, I then discovered the shoe store with great high heels and flat, as well as the the deal of $17.99 for one pair and get the second for FREE. Two pair of shoes later, as well as a great purse and fishnet tights and I was reconsidering...

"Don't even think about eating a peanut.

These are mine, all mine!"

No trip to Utah is complete without a day of card-playing. Tuesday was spent eating junk food and playing cards until we dropped. Unfortunately, Todd killed us every game!

Emily was able to join in the fun from Idaho Falls via I-Chat.

Grammy, Aunt Emily, me, Aunt Jeanene and Mindy, Mom

We couldn't have asked for a better way to spend the initial days of our vacation...more posts and pictures to come!

Happy 5th Birthday Cannon!

2008-09-16T11:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Cannon!

C--charcteristics you can't help but love...miscevious, smart, funny, sweet, athletic, lovable!

A--adorable...who can resist those dimples and that smile!

N--nice to all those around him!

N--naturally athletic and determined!

O--outrageously fantastic big AND little brother!

N--never fails to bring a smile to my face, always greets me with a hug!