Derek and Kandis

Photos!

2011-10-06T22:20:00.001-07:00

Guess who is getting a new camera?! Yay! and in honor of this great news I will be hold a fall extravaganza-Saturday the 15th and 22nd 30 minute family photoshoots for only $50!!! Cd of all images. Just in time for Christmas cards! Email me to reserve your time slot KjoEsplin@gmail.com or call 801.860.0338

Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-05-07T07:31:00.000-07:00

HE DID IT!!! Derek is officially a graduated and I couldn't be more proud! It was a very fun day with family and friends. Pictures to come soon.

Surgery

2011-05-01T21:02:00.000-07:00

Just after Valentines day, our work had a big basketball tournament. Derek played with some friends from his branch. During the first game he jumped and some kid kicked his knee in a way it was not suppose to bend! He went down! He couldn't stand on it. Every time he tried to go back in it would give out on him. So for the next week he limped around thinking he had twisted it. Finally nearly a week later when the swelling wasn't going away I convinced him to go see a doctor. Her first reaction as soon as she came in the room was "Wow! That looks painful! What'd you do?" Not a good sign. Anyway an MRI later and we found out he had a complete tear to his ACL and needed surgery. All went well and he's in physical therapy a couple times a week but recovering well.

The battle wounds...

(a week or 2 after the surgery)

Where's your kneecap?

And then a couple weeks ago I woke up with pink eye! In both eyes, and then I managed to scratch my left eye so it wasn't getting better. I looked like those cartoon red evil eyes for a couple weeks.

We were quite the pair, him limping around and me with red eyes.

This was after a week of drops when it was supposed to be better. It had been worse...

I know, I know, he wins the pitty party .

Welcome to the family!

2011-05-01T20:57:00.000-07:00

We would like to introduce all of you to the newest member of our family! Balloo! He is our blue beta fish. He's the happiest fish ever. He will even dance for his food when you go to feed him. We are such proud parents.

Once there was a snowman!

2011-05-01T20:33:00.000-07:00

Once there was a snowman, snowman, snowman....

Once there was a snowman...

Tall, Tall, Tall!

In the sun he melted, melted, melted, in the sun he melted....

Small, small, small!

Seriously we made this awesome snowman and less than 3 hours later he had already fallen over and started to melt. :(

St. George trip

2011-05-01T15:54:00.000-07:00

For conference weekend we went with the family to St. George. It was great break from school and work and we got some MUCH needed sun! I seriously believe my Vitamin D levels were depleted. Thanks Allen and Heather for letting us all come use your home.

So we didn't even coordinate this, but when we got there my Uncle Mark and Aunt Jeanette were in town. And Uncle David, Aunt Rebecca, and Rachel were driving through on their way to drop Rachel in SLC. So we saw lots of out of state cousins as well.

This is the beautiful sunset that greeted us on our way down....I could already tell it was going to be a fabulous trip.

See how excited we were?

Colby and Brody got some Grandma lovin'

Porter and Brody sure love each other, I have the cutest nephews.

Brody and me goofing around in the car, that kid seriously cracks me up!

We headed to the St. George Temple to take some photos

And we got to go see Uncle Marks GIANT horse. Seriously that thing is massive. Looks huge in the photos (compare it to the 6ft tall men in the photo)but is even larger in real life.

Uncle Mark's pride and joy.

You see the hat in the back? Barely peeking over the horses back? Allen is 6' tall and he barely came to the horses back.

Where have they been?

2011-02-05T21:37:00.000-08:00

You all, I'm sure, have been asking yourselves..."Where are Kandis and Derek? And why don't they update their blog?" Well its your lucky day! I finally took the time to download a few pictures and here are a few highlights since last fall when I last did a real post (oops!) They are out of order so sorry but that's just how it's going to be!

P.S. HopeKids project is still happening but we're holding off til Easter so I can capture those families in their Easter best. Plus less sickness going around and hopefully a better turnout. So donations are appreciated ;)

My wonderful Grandpa gave us tickets to go see a Jazz game! So much fun to actually be in the stadium rather then watching on TV. And of course they won!

Go Jazz!

Enjoying the halftime show (ok half-time was lame but a good chance to take a pic)

Our seats we basically next to Ryan Seacrest! Awesome I know!! We are now BFF's with him and he says I have a great chance of being the next American Idol!

See there he is-the one the arrow is pointing at. I tell you we were right next to him.
(ok maybe not but that really is him. He was on a date with some girl from Utah that I hear is on dancing with the stars, I forget her name.)

A couple of the pics from Christmas morning...

Derek's sister Kathrina gave him this totally awesome Xterra mouse pad! Isn't it great?!

Here we are (Don't judge us!! We had just woken up and hadn't finished getting ready and weren't in our own beds/bathroom)

Check out our amazing gingerbread houses!

Amazing?! I know!

This is Derek's ^^^ You'll notice there are 3 stories and a balcony and covered porch it has an underground garage (ok only in theory) and a rooftop pool ;) He had way too much fun there was even some sanding of the graham crackers to get pieces exactly right. But it truly was a masterpiece.
This is mine^^ I went with the cute smaller charming cottage look.
Can you tell our tastes? This is the ongoing argument...a nice new home or an older one with charm oozing out the front door. One day when we actually get a home this may be a real issue :)

We went bowling with my old roomates and their spouses...

The chicas...

Cute us!

The dudes!

We had tons of fun hanging out with the old gang. We seriously need to do it more often!

Sharing time...

I made this "Gratitude Turkey" with my Primary kids for sharing time.

Each hand represents a service they were going to do that week to show gratitude in the spirit of thanksgiving!
Such an amazing holiday!

Derek turned 28!!!

And what 28 year old wouldn't want a Lightning McQueen cake?!?!!?

Made it myself-aren't your proud?!

Kandis is 27!!!

We had a joint birthday party with my besties!
(Adam's b-day is just 2 days after mine)
So we headed to the Brickoven for some delicious pizza

Steve REALLY liked his M&M cookie!
What a goof!

Don't mind the pasty whiteness Derek just makes me look whiter then I actually am-I swear!
I guess I better get used to it since our children are bound to be darker then me. No I am not making an announcement just sometime in the distant future.

Sam and Me

Jess and Carson-sorry its blurry

Steve and Adam-now that's true bro-love

Went to my Family's for Thanksgiving dessert and more birthday fun!
Here is me with Porter-He loves me! I could kiss those cheeks all night!

Rocky got a new bumper!! Now he rides down the road saying "check out that nice back side!"

Halloween night we had Chyanne and Cory over for scary movies
(So I Married an Axe Murderer...hehehe)

Check out my Halloween 80's Kandis! Awesome! Like totally!! Oh how I would have rocked as an 80's teen!

And we ate scary treats!

I know they look so real you may be asking yourself "Kandis what have you done!"
But have no fear they are only Oreo Balls of Goodness. And if you have never had one you have to try it! To-die-for!

For Halloween we were invited to a masquerade party by my friend Stephanie...

Meggan, Stephanie and Me

Derek being the good sport that he is (hates this holiday!) even got all dressed up.

Doesn't he look sexy as a mysterious musketeer?!

New Blog

2011-01-04T13:38:00.001-08:00

We set up a new blog that we hope you will check out and participate in. We are testing the versatility of the ever famous Snuggie, a blanket with arms. We're trying to get people to send in pictures of them doing various activities in a Snuggie. Check it out!

Peace On Earth / Little Drummer Boy 2010 with Jack Black and Jason Segel

2010-12-15T09:44:00.000-08:00

Provo, UT Girls - BYU Divine Comedy

2010-12-09T19:25:00.000-08:00

Hope Kids

2010-12-02T21:31:00.000-08:00

So, 'tis the season for giving right?! Well I started wondering what I could do to make a difference this year? I wanted to make a difference in whatever small way I could.

I am a photographer, I have my BFA in Photography, I love to take pictures. I want my art to make a difference too. How could I, little ol' me, make a difference with my photos? Well Derek and I came up with this great plan! I want to take photos free-of-charge for families which, due to medical expenses, maybe can't afford professional portraits. I have a friend, Lindsay, who has been very involved with the organization HopeKids, and we have teamed up to do just that - take pictures for these families.

HopeKids is a fabulous organization!

HopeKids provides ongoing events & activities and a powerful, unique support community for children with cancer and other life-threatening medical conditions. We surround these remarkable children and their families with the message that hope can be a powerful medicine.

What a wonderful organization! I am volunteering with them to create a portrait day for these families. On January 15th we are going to get as many portraits done for these families as possible. These families have so much going on, some of them have exhausted all finances on medical bills, and spend countless hours in hospitals. This project makes me thankful each and every day for my health and countless blessings!

Why am I sharing this with you? This organization gives so much over and over again to these children and their families. Along with this Portrait Day, I am also looking to raise donations for HopeKids. I know this is the time of year where we spend all of our money and every charity is looking for extra support, but I hope you will support this cause and donate. Whether it is just a few dollars (or more :) ) I know it will make a great difference to this organization. I don't want to give out my address to the world of the internet so if you are interested you can donate online at Hopekids.org, or email or call me and I will get you my address to send me a check and I will give them all donations at the event in January.

Kjoesplin@gmail.com

Fall is in the air...

2010-10-24T19:29:00.000-07:00

So I'm a total blog slacker but wanted to share a few pictures of a couple things we've been doing, for anyone that hasn't given up on us eventually updating.

We at work participated in "Paint the town red" for the U of U football season. This is the mural Stephanie and I painted. Tons of fun! (this years theme was Home of the Utes)

We also went on a few Xterra off roading ventures, with Chyanne and Cory...

Krissy and Greg came to join us for pumpkin carving. And I must say we are carving pros! Check out how awesome they all turned out...

The process...

Our masterpieces....

Greg and Krissy's beauty...

The spooky results...

We went for a Sunday drive to see the leaves last week. It was absolutely the perfect time for them. Beautiful colors in every direction. Maybe its just me but the colors this year are so much richer then we've had the last couple years. Maybe because we didn't get snow yet and actually had autumn temperatures.

And my BFF Sam is having a baby-this is her with the adorable bedding she got for her nursery. Congrats Samantha!

And nothing completes a blog post better than a pic of us being goofy!

Thanks to all who still check up on our blog!

Weddings

2010-08-25T20:00:00.000-07:00

Kassie and Whit are officially engaged! Whit welcome to the family. Thanks for taking care of my baby sis. We love you both!

Cuteness

2010-08-24T16:02:00.000-07:00

Ok I wanted to share this cause I think it is great!
http://milasdaydreams.blogspot.com

And stay tuned to finally have some updates of what Derek and I have been up to-coming soon I promise!

Background

2010-08-02T21:18:00.000-07:00

Our last background apparently got discontinued or something because, suddenly, we had no background. Since we needed a new one, I decided to pick a nice sport-themed one. Let's see how long it takes Kandis to change it. He he he

Memorial Day weekend

2010-06-03T13:33:00.000-07:00

***A special thanks to all those who serve our country and protect our freedoms. May God bless you and your families***

We got to spend some time in good ol' Preston Idaho for the holiday weekend. Grandma Esplin was kind enough to feed and house us for a couple days so we didn't have to think about cleaning, yard work, or homework for a few hours. Nice and relaxing. Don't be too jealous, there was no sun up in Idaho either, yet always nice to get out of town.

And of course the farm is a beautiful place to take some pictures...

Check out those beautiful pink blossoms!

Derek's beloved truck. His Grandpa left it to him, and one day we are going to get it out of that barn and restore it to its glory days!

Funny!

2010-04-03T12:55:00.001-07:00

Desert Adventure

2010-03-13T20:36:00.001-08:00

Since I am a boring person who has too much homework, I don't really have anything exciting to write about. Most of my posts have been about cars so I thought I would switch it up and tell you about a recent trip we took - in the car.

Because the mountains around here have been covered in snow, we decided to head out to the west desert to see if we could find ghost towns and good views of the salt flats from some mountain peaks. We packed a lunch and met up early with some friends and then off we headed into the middle of nowhere, not too far from the Bonneville Salt Flats.

We left the freeway and headed across the desert into the distant mountains. It seemed like the only other living things within sight were cows that liked to stand in the middle of the road, especially around corners. As we headed into the mountains, the air got colder and the roads muddier.

As we exited a corner, there it was. Could this be the ghost town we were looking for? Nope. Well, it was what was left of this supposed ghost town. The lone house was definitely in shambles but based on the sheet-rocked walls and tiled floor, it was far from ancient. Still cool to look at.

A little further up the road, the hillside opened up into a huge open pit mine - quite an impressive sight. We played around in the snow for a little while, looking for some more ruins from the mining days. Unfortunately, the old house was the closest we got to a ghost town, but we did find some interesting signs of life...

We ate lunch in the canyon, overlooking the valleys west of Salt Lake City and then decided to head out and see what else we could find.

After some bumpy roads and more obstinate cattle, we got back to the freeway. As thoughts of heading home filled our minds, we saw it. Just across the freeway, a tall hill with a narrow gravel road heading straight up the side of it. A steep gravel road, and a good view at the top for some photo ops proved to be more tempting that being back at home and up we went. As my sister's face shows, it was actually kind of a lame hill.

Finally, at the top - Amazing Views of the surrounding desert. With the rays of sun breaking through the clouds. This is what we were looking for. Of course, the car wanted to be in the pictures too.

All-in-all, it was a fun trip. Close enough to home to be reached in a day, but far enough to feel as though we were light years away from anything - including school. We have a couple other adventures but I'll save those for another day - or another blog when Kandis changes her password to this one and doesn't tell me.

Hahaha

2010-01-27T16:03:00.000-08:00

OK I am not saying that what happened to this lady was funny but her response and what the criminal got out of it is funny! So this is from KSL news today...

Police said the 90-year-old woman had just left the building near 1400 South and 2200 East in Salt Lake City around 4 p.m. when she was approached by a man who said he would kill her if she didn't hand over her purse.

Police said the woman refused and told him to go ahead and kill her. He grabbed what he thought was her purse -- it was actually her scriptures -- pushed her out of the car and took off.

The woman suffered a few minor cuts on her head.

Baby Shower!

2010-01-20T19:24:00.000-08:00

Jessica and Adam are expecting a baby boy! Samantha and I threw Jessica a shower this last weekend, it was so fun to get together with all the O'town girls again and celebrate! Samantha thanks for all your hard work, and Ann thanks for letting us take over your house. Jessica you will be the cutest little mommy!

Porter Joe Robins!

2010-01-20T19:17:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the world little guy! My new nephew is here and he is the cutest thing ever!

He has the same middle name as his favorite aunt (ok Grandma too) and I know already we are going to be best buds! Don't worry bud I would be crying to if Dad was dressing me like a Y fan.

Happy Birthday Honey Buns!

2009-12-15T10:24:00.000-08:00

I have the most amazing husband and today is his birthday! A day to spoil, smooch, and pour out love for him all day long! Derek you are the greatest and are perfect for me! I love how you...
always make me laugh,
love to hang out with me no matter what I'm doing,
spoil me with kisses,
think you are hilarious (you are funny, but you get an extra big kick out of yourself sometimes)
tuck me into bed each night,
are a worthy priesthood holder,
can be OCD at times,
help me around the house,
are always so warm, you are a great personal heater,
think and tell me how pretty I am (even with the extra pounds as of late)
let me park under the carport so I don't have to scrape my windows,
always take the trash out for me,
love to snuggle,
how you tell me you love me each day,
listen to me complain and vent if needed,
want to spend as much time with me as possible,
how you think going to bed is boring cause we aren't talking (though a girl needs her beauty sleep)
how excited you get when it snows,
how you always try to keep me warm,
are always willing to go on photo shoots with me,
how you don't whine about watching my chic flics with me,
And the list goes on and on! You really are the greatest and I hope you know just how much I love you! Happy Birthday Derek!

2009-12-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

So I've kind of been in a rut lately. A scrooge like rut.

It all started when I wanted to put the Christmas tree up Thanksgiving night! I was super excited and feeling all the holiday cheer, I love Christmas time. BUT the tree wasn't at our house, we had forgotten that we stored it at my mother-in-laws. No worries right? She was coming down the next night to go to dinner and could bring it down with her, and she did.

So Sunday night we finally go it up and then went to get the decoration box...MISSING! I can't find my Christmas decorations anywhere! We checked Derek's Mom's again and opened each and every box in our entire house looking for them. Some time-probably during the move-they dissappeared! We didn't have a lot but did have the cutest stockings ever and some sweet ornaments that I'm way bummed about. We went to the store and bought some cheep basics to decorate with, but even those have sat on the floor and still aren't hung. So 2 weeks left til Christmas and I still have a bare tree sitting in living room and not a hint of Christmas anywhere else in the house.

GOAL-This weekend I am going to get them up and see if that doesn't help me feel more "Christmas-y"

On a higher note, we have gotten the chance to go to multiple Christmas events that help me forget about the missing decorations (at least until I'm back home with a bare tree.)

For my birthday Derek took me to the Utah Symphony concert. It was so nice to get all dolled up and have a night on the town. We ate at the Garden in the JSMB on temple square and enjoyed the beauty of the Christmas lights below. Then we headed to Abravenal Hall to the concert. It was Handel's Messiah, as a sing along. Now we don't have the music so we sang the songs we knew and sat back to enjoy the sounds of the symphony for the rest. It was a beautifully magical night. Thanks Honey!

Then our dear friends Samantha and Steve invited us to join them for The Forgotten Carols. I had heard the songs but never seen the entire production. It was great! Michael McClane was quite entertaining. Always nice to have a reminder of the true spirit of Christmas. Thanks Wayments!

We also got to go be in the conference center to see the First Presidency Christmas Devotional. What a magnificent production they put on. So many people piling into that building and beautiful Christmas trees and decorations everywhere. My brother and his girlfriend joined us for the evening. Always an honor to be the same building as a Prophet of God.

Maybe I'll make my Christmas cookies this weekend and continue the festivities...

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-08T09:28:00.000-08:00

You'll have to ignore the the "Taylorsville Branch" Derek made this for his work, he's pretty funny like that! Thought I'd share cause I thought it was hilarious! Don't forget to use your best broken english.

Happy Thanksgiving y'all!

2009-11-24T16:04:00.000-08:00

I spend most of my days dwelling on my problems and drama and forgetting that the Lord has truly blessed me. Oh how very grateful I am for this time of year to have extra reminders of all the blessings I enjoy each and every day. The list is never ending and hard to formulate into words, but I want each of you to know that I am grateful for you and your friendships. Thanks for loving us. Know that we love each of you! Happy Thanksgiving!

Now bring on the turkey!

Veteran's Day Quote

2009-11-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

Remain true to your beliefs and the best of how you envision America for our children, but don't live in fear and hate. Pick your battles for that which you hold dear, but remember that we are all brother and sisters and that certain realities never change over time, namely that "A house divided against itself cannot stand." On Veterans Day, please remember why we are here, and for the cause that we serve—the cause of freedom. We are the most powerful force for freedom on the planet, and it's because of the American family that we hold dear. Keep the light on for us, we'll be home soon. Remember the words of the Battle Hymn of the Republic, "As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free…" We are proud to be your American Soldiers.

God Bless America. MAJ DEAN ANGELBUER CAMP TAJI, IRAQ

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-01T20:11:00.000-08:00

Hope everyone's Halloween was as fun as ours! We were having a casual get together with a few friends, play some games and watch a few spooky movies. Derek doesn't like to hand out candy or dress up so costumes were optional...Like I said very low key. So when Derek got home from work we picked up the house and prepared some treats. Then suddenly a giant masked panda came running out or no where! Hahaha I was dying! "Mr. I don't like to dress up" had borrowed a hilarious over the top costume and surprised me. It was really funny! And everyone who came over ended up dressing up too! We had some great fun playing Apples to Apples and Outburst! Thanks everyone who made it so fun!

So we have here "Kung Fu Panda," an Indian and a Cowboy, A 70's B-ball player (with much too short shorts!) and a Boyscout (again look at those legs!) a Boxer, an 80's girl and an Identity Crisis (she used to have a bunch of "Hello my name is..." stickers) What funny costumes!

Check out those kung fu moves!

Hard to see but the tatoo is a replica of Mike Tyson's...drawn on myself (talented I know!)

Sumo anyone?

Watch out or you're going down!

Happy Hauntings!

2009-10-31T10:02:00.001-07:00

Let me also note that those carving kits are fabulous. I had never used one, why pay for a cheap plastic saw when I have a knife at home that'll probably work even better. Right? Wrong! Those little things were amazing-cheap yes, they bent quite easily. But with the pattern and the little saw they turned out better then I've ever done with any regular knife. I was quite proud of our creations myself :)

Tis the Season!

2009-10-28T11:48:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I hate winter and snow-but I don't really hate is as much until after Christmas. I thought yesterday's snow storm was actually beautiful with the giant snow flakes. Right now they are putting the Christmas lights on the trees downtown, and with a little bit if snow on the ground from yesterdays storm I have had Christmas songs stuck in my head all day! I love Christmas time with all the lights songs and generally happy people (at least if you stay away from shopping malls) I can hardly beleive it is creaping up on us so quickly but I am all for it! Now don't over look Thanksgiving in all the hype of Christmas for it is also a very great holiday, full of family food and birthday presents (for me at least) and did I mention the food-MMM!
Wanted to be the first to wish you all a very merry holiday season!

Hit and Run

2009-10-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

So the other night Kandis and I were talking to my dad in his driveway. While we were standing there, a car pulled up behind our car, which was parked in the street. Nothing unusual until the car pulled up and stopped so close behind ours that there was no room to walk between the two cars. This caught our attention. As the three of us watched, the car proceeded to smash into the back of our car sending the sounds of smashing metal and breaking plastic into the night air. This really caught my attention. I walked calmly (stormed) over to the convertible car and asked politely (screamed) what they thought they were doing. As I'm yelling at them to back up, the driver puts the car in reverse and backs up about an inch, then asks if that was ok. "No!" I yelled, "back UP!!". They finally did move the car... right into the back of ours AGAIN!

Finally, with both guys in the car running complex math to figure out how to put the automatic car in reverse and after hitting our car three times, they backed up. As I tried to talk myself out of pulling them both from the car and beating them (can't give Kandis another excuse to think I'm crazy), I bent down to look at our poor car...

Apparently the smashing metal and plastic came from his car but if you look closely you can see two little scuffs in our bumper - basically no damage but still annoying. "No big deal" the passenger says as he gets out of the car trying to shake my hand... there were words exchanged until the guy was in my face reeking of alcohol. I pulled my fist back and smashed him in the face knocking him on the ground... Ok, not really but that's what I wanted to do but I didn't feel like possible spending the night in jail. We yelled at each other for a while asI tried to get him to throw the first one and give me an excuse. I know, I know, there wasn't even any damage to my car but he was really annoying me. His car was smashed pretty good (he he he). It was all getting a little out of hand until my dad stepped in and calmly (for real, he was calm. Good guy) said that we could always call the police and have them sort it out - especially since they seemed nice and drunk for their evening drive. This got their attention. I said that it was a great ideas and walked to my car to get my phone as the guy followed me trying to stop me. I called 911 and told them what happened - two drunk guys driving around had hit my car - and gave the operator the license plate number as the guy tried to take my phone and cover his plate. I couldn't reach the keys to his car either, bummer.

Eventually the guy got scared and and jumped in his car. I had to move out of the way when they sped off, almost taking my door with them. When the officer arrived they said they hadn't found them yet but if they did they would let me know. Still nothing unfortunately. Since the license plate was from California the officer said they didn't have much to go on but they would send a California trooper to the address down there.

Most of the scratches buffed out and we're going to replace the bumper anyway so we can have an integrated trailer hitch, but it was still annoying. I'm just glad the back bumper on the Xterra seems to be nice and strong. This makes the third time in 2 years that we have been hit - twice we weren't even in the car and the third time we were stopped at a stoplight. Looking back, I should have had some fun and punched him or something so they didn't leave. I guess I know better for next time.

I think I am just going to buy a tank.

Blog Design Giveaway!

2009-10-20T12:42:00.000-07:00

http://creativeblogdesigns.blogspot.com/

Hey all! My friend Becky designs super cute blogs and is giving away a "Blog Makeover" for free. Check it out and enter yourself! Here's to hoping I win! (or one of you special people that I know so I can see the end result)

Where are all the mothers...

2009-10-19T16:33:00.000-07:00

So random thought but these are the things that go through my head. I must be watching to many Disney shows, or maybe it was the radio ads for Princesses on ice coming to town....

How come there are no mothers in the Disney Princess stories? The only one I could think of was the "Evil" Step-mother. What about all the other princesses? Didn't they have good mothers somewhere in the story? I think we need a good story that includes a mother. :)

Mo-town Philly back again!

2009-09-19T11:33:00.000-07:00

So my Manager at work had these tickets to the Boys II Men concert at the state fair that he gave to Derek and I! Totally awesome! I know, I know, you are thinking "I didn't know Boys II Men still existed" but they do! It was a sold out show! They are in their 19th year as a mo-town group and there are now only 3 of them but they have an album releasing in November or something. Anyway it was totally awesome! I had a blast dancin' and singing along and acting like a crazy teenager again. Derek didn't dance with me, but assured me he still had fun. It was like I was 10 all over again. I'm pretty impressed I still knew the words to many of their songs-just another testament that, though I can't sing, I'd still kick butt at "Don't Forget the Lyrics!" 3 middle aged men doing the same choreography and dance moves they learned when they were teens, quite entertaining!

Oh the excitement!

There they are...

Sweet moves yo!

That was awesome!

Even the Questar Gas man was there to join in the fun.
You know the tall skinny guy from the commercials?...The tall one middle top in the white shirt. He moved and I only had my camera phone but it's totally him!

Afterwards we stopped by the fair and saw the pigs...

This guy was HUGE!

Ahh the three little pigs...I wonder which one builds his house out of bricks?

For the beauty of the Earth

2009-09-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

I've been noticing lately just how lovely the earth all around us is. (Maybe its due to the fact that my camera is currently broken :( so I can't take pictures) But it just dawned on me the other day how many sunflowers there are in Utah. I know, I know-Derek tells me they have always been there, but I was driving down the freeway the other day and was amazed at how many there were-and everywhere! Made my traffic time a little more bearable and actually pleasant.
Have you see the sunsets lately?! From our old apartment you could not see anything but now we are higher up on the hill side and we often get to catch the sunsets on the way home. The other day it was "fruit punch" red, I had never seen it like that! Absolutely beautiful. I made Derek drive around the neighborhood to find the perfect viewing point.
And then yesterday just after the rain stopped I was staring at the majesty of the Wasatch Mountains. They tower over our home, and I see them everyday, but there was no smog and I felt like I had just walked out of an eye doctor with an updated contact prescription. They truly are beautiful and can't wait to see the colors change this fall! God truly blesses us each day with beauty and love all around!
Here's to hoping we all take a minute out of our day to take notice of this blessing and thank God for it.

Thank you!

2009-09-02T23:49:00.000-07:00

Kandis did a wonderful job planning our anniversary activities. We went go-cart racing at the Miller Motor Sports Park and then enjoyed some pampering with massages at a spa. Thanks Kandis for planning a wonderful anniversary. You did a GREAT job and it was awesome to be able to spend some time with you. I love you!

So in love!

2009-09-01T10:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Honey! I just wanted everyone to know how extremely in love I am with this man...

Two years of more love and joy then I ever thought possible! I can't wait for an eternity more!

Lions and tigers and BEARS! Oh my!

2009-08-28T11:30:00.000-07:00

While we were in Jackson we had a lot of fun seeing all the wildlife. We then got a little too close for comfort with a few grizzlies! It was totally awesome! Ok, scary at the time but since we survived, pretty dang awesome!

So each night we took the kayaks out just before dusk and did a river run. One night, just after pulling the kayaks out and heading back to camp, we noticed a lot of people pulled off to the side of the road looking at something. Of course we pulled off to look, we didn't want to miss out on anything exciting. So we pull off and Kathrina (Derek's sister) and I hop out to walk up the road and ask what everyone is looking at. As we are walking up the road I see something out of the corner of my eye running across the street, and honestly not that far from where all the group was standing. It was large, brown, and furry! Luckily everyone was looking the other direction or I'm sure panic would have followed. Kathrina and I immediately turn to each other and go, "that's a bear!" So we head up to the group of about 8 or so people, all gathered around talking and they are all looking out over this field at a second bear. Then you see the first bear (that we saw heading across the road) running full speed out of the bushes to where the second bear is. The 2 of them are out in the field, I'd say about 250 yards away, just playing with each other. They are chasing and rolling around and teasing each other. While all of us tourists are standing on the side of the road taking pictures and discussing how awesome this sight is. Well, it was getting dark and my camera was having a hard time focusing with very little light and no tripod, plus it broke a few days later so that probably factored in, so unfortunately I have only blurry pictures.

Suddenly the two of them turn and start running full speed at the road where all of us are standing! I know the one who crossed the road was like "Bro check out all those dang tourists, lets really give them something to talk about!" Suddenly Kim (Derek's step-mom) screams, "Run! Everyone get in your cars!" So the entire group scatters, my car is closer to where they are running than where I'm standing but I don't want to be there all by myself. The adrenaline is pumping so I run toward the car. Next thing I know, Kim is hopping in someone else's car - we don't know these people at all! It was pretty funny, she just hopped right in. So I'm running to our car run around the back of Wade's (Derek's dad) car (parked directly in front of ours) and suddenly I freeze between our car and Wade's. I can't see the bears any more! I don't know where they are because our car is blocking my view. I'm standing there trying to figure out if I should keep running to our car and hop in then I see Derek motioning frantically to me to get in Wade's car! I hop in the car and turn around just in time to see the bears come bounding around the back bumper of our car and turn to head in the bushes we are parked next to!! If I hadn't of stopped I would have run into them face-to-face!! Holy crap!

Now these bears weren't after anyone, just playing around, but still, if I had run into them and startled them or whatever I could have been a goner! IT WAS AWESOME! Hahaha trust me, I know I'm lucky and had someone watching over me but I survived and have a dang awesome story to tell now! Well, we watched them for a while longer (from the safety of the car) as they crossed the road one more time and headed down to the river. We found out from the ranger that those 2 are brother Grizzlies and their mom had just turned them out the year before. So they are young enough that they still tolerate each other and share the "turf", But give it another year and that encounter wouldn't have been as "playful." To see to Grizzlies play together and run around like that is not something many people ever see.

The next night we saw a black bear, but after the Grizzly encounter, this wasn't as big a deal (but they're much cuter, more like the kind you'd want to cuddle with). We saw moose and elk and eagles and all sorts of wildlife! Went up to Old Faithful one morning and the entire 6 hours we spent in Yellowstone we didn't see ANYTHING! Seriously, the only bird we even saw was dead. Hot pots were cool and all but nothing compared to running from a grizzly! It was an awesome and much needed vacation! Thanks Wade and Kim!

Jackson Lake

2009-08-03T22:20:00.000-07:00

And this is the beautiful lake where we spent the next week. Don't worry that I was SUPER sunburned after only the first day, and I was wearing sunscreen the entire time! Even Derek got red. Guess we haven't been spending enough (or any) time at the pool this summer-dang school and work!

Vacation part one...

2009-08-03T21:53:00.000-07:00

So before Jackson we headed up to Idaho and visited Grandma Esplin and few of the cousins...

Then it was back to the road on Monday for the rest of our trip into Wyoming.

This X-terra sure is coming in handy :)

We got slightly distracted when we saw signs for the National Oregon trail center and stopped by and ended up spending an hour checking out all the fun historical artifacts. Hey it was educational and appropriate for Pioneer week. Any one wonder why it took us like 7 hours to get to Jackson?!

Home sweet home

2009-08-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

Ok so getting unpacked and situated in the new place took a while but its finally coming together! Here are a few shots of the front room. This is the first time I've had the guts to hang my own art work on the walls so we'll see how that goes. I'd post a few more pics (like of my beautiful flowers out front which I had oh so much fun planting) but my camera is on the fritz and so we are sending in the lens for repairs, yet again :(

Still a few touches needing to be made, like repainting the hutch and coffee table. But it's starting to look like a home. Feel free to come by and visit anytime!

Trimmed and hemmed those curtains all by myself-aren't you proud?

Vacation

2009-08-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone (if there is anyone who still checks our blog), sorry we haven't updated in a while. We haven't really had anything exciting to write about... until now... Once we get the pictures, we'll put up a new post, but thought we should give you a preview of things to come. Keep checking back for stories and pictures of our nightly meetings with beavers, escaping death on the snake river, hugging black bears, and running from grizzly bears!

Moving time!

2009-06-09T16:22:00.000-07:00

Well I know I haven't posted much lately but I keep saying that I'll get my pictures from our Arizona trip all ready and post some (but I took hundreds, literally, I think I had over 300 pics!), and pictures of this and that because that's how I best express myself, Derek is the one who is good with the words. But that sure hasn't happened, its been a super busy few weeks! So hopefully someone still checks our blog!

Well our lease on our first married couple apartment came up at the end of April. We started looking for a place in March and tried and tried for 2 solid months! I was about ready to sign another lease- Dreading another year of hearing our neighbors blow their noses and the "elephant" who stomps around upstairs at all hours of the night, not to mention no one can ever get ahold of me cause there is zero reception in our place! But then just 3 weeks ago we found the perfect place! Ok maybe not perfect but as close as you can get and still be renting. It's a duplex in the Milcreek area where we have a TON more room and no one above or below us! We are so excited and will have everyone over as soon as things are put together. So after two years in the basement and a tearful good bye with my Young Women and ward we are moving on to bigger and better. Pictures to come soon.

Also wanted to remind everyone about RELAY FOR LIFE! Its this Friday night (12th) and into Saturday morning at This Is the Place State Park. We have put together a work team and will be there all night so come down to support donate and have some fun and food for a good cause. All funds raised go 100% to the American Cancer Society to help fight cancer. Please come down and support us if you can, or donations are still being collected online (see post below) Appreciate it!

Fight Cancer with Relay for Life!

2009-05-13T21:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Family and Friends,

I've decided to take a stand and fight back against cancer
by participating in the American Cancer Society Relay For Life® event
right here in my community.

Please support me in this important cause by making a secure,
tax-deductible donation online using the link below.

To donate online now, click here to visit my personal page.

http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLFY09National?px=11359158&pg=personal&fr_id=14933

Relay For Life® is a life-changing event that brings together more
than 3.5 million people worldwide to:

* CELEBRATE the lives of those who have battled cancer. The
strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight.
* REMEMBER loved ones lost to the disease. At Relay, people who
have walked alongside people battling cancer can grieve and find
healing.
* FIGHT BACK. We Relay because we have been touched by cancer and
desperately want to put an end to the disease.

Whatever you can give will help - it all adds up! I greatly appreciate
your support and will keep you posted on my progress.

Sincerely,

KandisEsplin

CELEBRATE and Double Your Money
Many employers offer matching funds programs. Your $50 donation
could turn into $100. Inquire with your personnel/HR
department to complete the paperwork required to get your gift
matched. Visit our Matching Gifts page.
http://www.matchinggifts.com/acs/

REMEMBER loved ones through Mosaic Of Hope
Create a moving memorial tribute to your loved one lost to
cancer or an inspiring honor tribute to your loved one winning
the fight against cancer. Visit the American Cancer Society
Mosaic Of Hope web site to build your own memorial or honor site
dedicated to your loved one.

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/DON/DON_2_Mosaic_of_Memories.asp?from=RFLFooter

FIGHT BACK by becoming a member of ACS CAN

ACS CAN logo

http://www.acscan.org/

You have the opportunity to make a difference and save lives by
becoming a member of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action
Network (ACS CAN). ACS CAN is the organization that allows the voice
of the cancer community to be heard. ACS CAN is a national
grassroots movement of people just like you - cancer patients,
survivors, caregivers and their families and friends who who are
dedicated to changing laws and policies to help people fight cancer.
You CAN take action. We CAN save lives. Together, we CAN
make cancer a top national priority. Join CAN today, at
www.acscan.org
http://www.acscan.org/

Check out the new ride!

2009-05-11T22:13:00.000-07:00

So Derek and I have been wanting an off road vehicle for a long time now. Well we found one that was too good of a deal to pass up, and so our Xterra was born! And of course we had to go check out the off road package this weekend. Thought we'd share some of the fun with you. You can hardly tell because she handles so perfectly but these were quite the rugged trails! She's a champ!

A hard lesson to learn

2009-02-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

So a few of you remember the night before my wedding-I was kind of a mess. I had been working non-stop on this cute DVD of Derek and I's baby pictures (you know the standard reception ones) I had scanned all the pictures and put it all together myself-I was quite proud. It looked great on my computer. It was going to be used for the luncheon and the reception.

So I had it done like 2 weeks early and didn't think twice about waiting to burn it. So around midnight the night before the wedding I put the DVD in and waited for it to burn, well much to my dismay (I hadn't ever used my DVD burner) I got an error message after waiting the 45 minutes or so. So I tried again...same error. It would take the time to burn it and go through the process but said error open completion and it was no good.

So at this point I am stressed to the max-taking it out on my poor dear brides-maids and soon to be husband. Who were all quite patient with me that night-thank you all! I was quite crabby! NO ONE could figure it all out. Well we ended up getting little if any sleep. Anyone who knows me well knows sleep is very important to me-my best friends had an interference plan for how they were going to handle it when I got ornery at the wedding. Which I am please to report didn't happen-even without sleep I was a delightful bride.

Anywhoodle, the other day I was doing a few things and figured it all out! Can you believe it-a year and half later! Well it was all in the type of DVD I was trying to burn it to, I had purchased DVD ram and I needed DVD-R. I had mixed emotions when I figured it out, I was peeved that I was that stupid and all the stress could have been avoided, and delighted because now I can at least take it off my computer and have a copy in my home. So anyone need a DVD? Cause I now know how to use my computer!

Picture Tag...

2009-02-21T11:31:00.000-08:00

Here are the rules...

Open your Picture folder on your computer.

Pick the 6th Folder

Select the 6th picture in that folder.

Post that picute on your blog...and the story that goes along with it.

Tag 6 others to do the same....

I was tagged by Kyra! Thanks-this was a fun one. Everyone that knows me knows I have a TON of pictures-I am a photographer after all. Though I recently have been burning all the photo's to disks so that other families aren't taking up my hard drive's space-so mostly they are my personal ones and one's of Derek and I. Can anyone even imagine how many pictures our future children will have taken of them! Wowser! So of the 5 or so picture folders I have I randomly picked on and followed the rules. So here it is...

Not to exciting of a story, for the rest of you but it is for me. This is Derek and I on our honeymoon! See that would be why I am beaming with excitement-I get to be with that adorable face of his for eternity! We were on a cruise of the Mexican Riviera aboard the Paradise vessel. Cruises are the way to travel-tons of food and a new destination each day! We had a blast.

I tag...

Samantha

Jessica

Charity

Heather

Kassie

Melissa

& everyone else who would like to it is quite fun!

Car Show!!

2009-02-04T22:21:00.000-08:00

I look forward to the car show every year, and this year was no exception. I was a little bummed that BMW wasn't there, but there were a couple others that kept me plenty busy. You know those surveys that friends send you sometimes, the ones that ask you what your biggest fear is or where you would like to retire? Well, I would retire to Germany so I could drive on the Autobahn all day and my biggest fear is that I will never own a Porsche. Here are a couple pics from the car show:

This is our next car so we had to see how we looked.

What do you think?

Someday... Me, the Autobahn, and this car.

Arizona Here We Come!!

2009-01-28T20:06:00.000-08:00

Hey friends and family in Arizona! We're planning a trip to Arizona in March and we want to see everyone. We're so excited to get away from this snow and into the desert sun. After visiting with everyone we plan on going to see the sights. We need some suggestions on what we should do/see while we're there. We know we want to see where Kandis grew up in Flagstaff and then the Grand Canyon; but what else is a must-see?

Blog slacker!

2009-01-17T15:17:00.000-08:00

So I know I've been a giant slacker and not updated forever, but things have finally gotten back to our routine so hopefully these will begin to be more regular. I hope everyone had a fantastic Holiday season and got to spend time with family and eat tons of Chocolate! Here are a few pictures from the last few months to catch you all up...

First off we can't forget about those amazing UTES! This picture is from the GIANT tailgate party our work threw for the BYU vs UTAH game. That was an awesome game in which we totally dominated! We then went on to prevail in the Sugar Bowl and become the only undefeated college football team. They even threw the team a parade yesterday (which happened to go right down the street in front of my work) with hundreds of people-I was impressed by the turnout...

My Birthday was the week of Thanksgiving, that's right I'm a whole 25 years of age now! I had been doing tons of pictures on every day off I had and just wanted a day of R & R. And that's what I got-yay! We slept in and lounged around for most the day and then to top it off with perfection Derek took my out to the Cheesecake Factory!! Yummy Yum Yum...

Here's us at the restaurant

Thanksgiving! If you know me well you know this is my ultimate favorite holiday! I love Turkey (LOVE it) and I always get presents-food family and presents, what more could a girl ask for? We had Thanksgiving with Derek's Dad the Sunday before, thanksgiving morning at Derek's Grandma's in Idaho, Thanksgiving day at my brother's and the Sunday afterward we had MORE turkey at his Mom's-I'm such a lucky/over stuffed girl. But I enjoyed everyone of those meals.

My Nephews and I played "Super Heros" all Thanksgiving evening-check out the rad capes-that's right my big head did fit, thanks spandex!

Oh Christmas tree! Oh Christmas Tree!

We of course can't invade Thanksgiving with Christmas like all the retail stores do, but as soon as I've had my Turkey, lights are green and its a go for putting up the Christmas Decorations! Not a lot of room in our apartment but the tree turned out fabulous (if I do say so myself)!

Next came more Birthdays! Colby's was the 2nd, Kassie's the 8th and Derek on the 15th! "Celebrate good times come on!"

Kathrina and Bea came down and made us dinner cause the poor birthday boy had to spend the entire day studying/taking his finals.

The three hole punch he was so excited to ask for!

Crazy People...

The other two birthday kids!

Gotta stick out the tongue if Mr. Potato Head does

These two were here for the cake

The Young Women and I celebrated the Holidays Utah style and went down the Temple square-just in time too, a week later it was stormy and FREEZING

Finally Christmas! It was a fun filled crazy day! Christmas Eve was spent in Park City with Derek's Dad and family-but unfortunately this photographer didn't have her camera with her :(

Christmas Morning was with Derek's Mom and Sister. Then we headed down to my brother's house-and hit the snow storm down there-wow that was a lot of snow, we watched 3 cars get dug out by tractors and then decided our next car needs 4 wheel drive! But once we made it to the house it was fun filled with food and gifts!

This was the first year in a LONG time that I got a Barbie in my stocking! I was 8 all over again and immediately had to get it out to play.

Bea left the next day for Italy so we got her a photo book to show off to her family

Kas and Tyson showing off the loot!

Brody was so excited about the new PJ's that he didn't care that he was tipping over his Batman chair-luckily Grandma was there to save the day.

Brody was in heaven as cars raced all around him-Derek was a little jealous.

Happy Birthday Derek!

2008-12-14T22:57:00.001-08:00

Happy Birthday Sweetheart! I hope you know just how much I love and appreciate you each and everyday! You are the greatest husband ever. Thanks for loving me the way you do. I'm so glad I have you FOREVER! Happy 26th Birthday old man! ;-)

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-10T16:48:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Input Needed

2008-12-09T22:04:00.000-08:00

So I have a question to ask everyone. If you were going to choose your Financial Advisor based solely off the type of car they drove, what would it be? Would it be a nice expensive one or a more modestly priced one? Just curious. Feel free to comment or vote in the poll to the right, or both!

Oh the things people do for fun...

2008-12-02T22:58:00.000-08:00

Sweet car video

2008-11-28T19:53:00.000-08:00

So Kandis has been really good at posting, and seeing that I have never actually posted I thought I might as well try it. I used to have a car just like the one in this video, and since my current car is not at all a sports car... videos like this help me remember the good old sounds. I'm kind of a car nut for those of you who may not know...

I'm not making it up...it's a real allergy!

2008-11-22T09:07:00.000-08:00

Christmas Survey

2008-11-21T19:45:00.001-08:00

1) Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Kandis - wrapping paper
Derek - gift bags
2) Real tree or artificial?
Kandis - Real! All the way!
Derek - Fake. Real trees are a kind of a pain to put up and clean up after.
3) When do you put up the tree?
Kandis - The day after Thanksgiving
Derek - Whenever Kandis tells me to.
4) When do you take the tree down?
Kandis - Once with my roommates we left it up until March and redecorated the tree for Valentine’s and St. Patty’s day.
Derek - Whenever Kandis tells me too (which apparently will be sometime in March)…
5) Do you like eggnog?
Kandis - Eew
Derek - Oh yeah!
6) Favorite gift received as a child?
Kandis - My Troll Doll
Derek - I think I’m going to have to go with a mountain bike.
7) Hardest person to buy for?
Kandis - My sister
Derek - My Dad
8) Easiest person to buy for?
Kandis - Anyone who tells me what to get them.
Derek - I like that answer, ditto.
9) Do you have a nativity scene?
Kandis - Not yet
Derek - Guess not
10) Mail or e-mail Christmas cards?
Kandis - I’ve never sent out Christmas cards before but my goal is to do it this year.
Derek - Looks like it’s time to buy an envelope licker thing.
11) Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
Kandis - Underwear that I had to unwrap in front of my brothers.
Derek - I can’t really think of anything.
12) Favorite Christmas movie?
Kandis - “Elf”
Derek - “It’s a Wonderful Life”
13) When do you start shopping for Christmas?
Kandis - Beginning to mid December
Derek - Don’t know if I want to admit this, but I have often found myself at the store on Christmas Eve day…
14) Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Kandis - Only white elephants
Derek - Not that I can remember
15) Favorite thing to eat at Christmas?
Kandis - More Turkey! It’s been a whole month since Thanksgiving.
Derek - I really like ham
16) Lights on the tree?
Kandis - Who doesn’t put lights on their tree
Derek - Yep. Light it up!
17) Favorite Christmas song?
Kandis - Silent Night
Derek - Any Finnish Christmas songs
18) Travel at Christmas or stay home?
Kandis - Home
Derek - Home
19) Can you name all of Santa's Reindeer?
Kandis - Heck yes!
Derek - Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner, Blitzen, and of course the most famous reindeer of all… Rudolph.
Kandis - You forgot Olive… Olive the other reindeer
20) Angel on the tree top or a star?
Kandis - Star. The Angels are usually creepy looking.
Derek - Star
21) Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas Morning?
Kandis - Christmas everything. I love this time of year
Derek - Peek on Christmas Eve and open them for real on Christmas day
22) Most annoying thing about Christmastime?
Kandis - Grumpy shoppers. Can anyone tell that I have worked retail at Christmas time before?
Derek - Spending money.
23) Favorite ornament/theme colors?
Kandis - Red and Green of course!
Derek - Red and green
24) Favorite for Christmas dinner?
Kandis - More turkey
Derek - More ham
25) What do you want for Christmas this year?
Kandis - My two front teeth
Derek - Snow, lots of it.

GO UTES!

2008-11-18T20:43:00.000-08:00

So I was just sitting here checking my email and my brother sent me a message on facebook inviting me to some anti-red week event (in honor of the Utah vs. BYU game Saturday) blah! But ironically being me I was sitting here in my Utah sweatshirt with my Utah pajama pants on dressed in all red! So we took a picture-it was funny to me!

2008-11-02T19:43:00.000-08:00

Well its been a few weeks since we've posted-really boring weeks so there wasn't much to brag about. I did get a new position at work-I'm now the assistant manager at my branch of the credit union-that was a big step for me but I'm loving it thus far. Halloween was fun, we actually got to sport costumes at work. I took complete advantage of not being forced to wear nylons (which yes I really do have to everyday) I was a swimmer and wore my swim cap, goggles, swimsuit (under warmups) and yes FLIPFLOPS! Those of you who know me know I would wear flipflops every single day if I could so this was quite a fun day at work for me. Derek dressed as a very professional AFCU employee-something about people not taking you too serious when you do loan for them while wearing tights and dressed like superman. We stayed home and had a cozy movie night and expected a few trick-or-treaters but our doorbell only rang once, so of course we ate all the candy ourselves-yummy!

If anyone is interested I am holding out my $30 photo opportunity through the end of the year. I work all week but am available on Saturdays (and at the Credit Union we get the silly holidays all off to)so check out the photo blog (kjophoto.blogspot.com) and let me know if you are interested!

Photo-op!

2008-10-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

Hey friends in Ogden, I am coming up on October 18th to do a photoshoot marathon. I would love to photography you and yours in preparation for the upcoming holidays. Babies, children, families, couples...anyone! I will do an hour and a CD of all the photos for you to print and use for $30. If you would like to join me please let me know and I will reserve a time slot!

Salt Lake Folk...If I have enough interest I'll plan a whole day or do an appointment with you too so please let me know.

I appreciate everyones support and hope to see you all soon!

Check out the photoblog... KJoPhoto.blogspot.com

***I've had a few responses from friends of friends but I need contact info for you, will everyone please email me your info at kandisesplin@yahoo.com-thanks! ***

Ladies Night...

2008-10-04T20:27:00.000-07:00

So I hadn't seen most of my high school girl friends in quite some time, but a bunch of us were finally able to coordinate a fun night of reminiscing and catching up. Thanks Carley for planning it! I had so much fun catching up and seeing everyone again, heck I hadn't even met Kate's baby. It means a lot to me that over the years and through marriage and children we have all managed to stay close and I still consider each one of you a dear friend. You are all beautiful women who I look up to and feel fortunate to have in my life.

Some of us still have a hard time smiling for the camera!

Memories...

2008-09-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

We were recently looking through some of our old yearbooks, back in the time when we first met. We liked the pictures so much that we decided to share them with everyone. Enjoy!

Kandis 1960

Derek 1960

Live your own memories at yearbookyourself.com

Scrapbooking...

2008-09-20T11:34:00.000-07:00

So I went with Samantha and Anne to the Scrapbook expo last night, oh boy that was an over load of fun stuff to work on. I think I like the blogging thing more though-less work. No I really do love to scrapbook but still haven't done any since I was married, and seeing how cute other people's scraping ideas I are I really need to get back into it. So if anyone wants to come have a scraping party let me know when and I'm there! (Kas, mom, sam, jess...)

1 year!

2008-09-07T20:58:00.000-07:00

So I put Derek in charge of planning our anniversary...and he did such a fabulous job that I think he may always be in charge of them! It was really great to have a special weekend to just get away and be us...

We went and stayed in a cute bed and breakfast Sunday night, and relaxed while it rained all night long. We woke up to what other than SNOW! Yes one year ago we were toasty on our wedding day and this year sure enough its snowing, but if it had been my wedding day this year it would not have been pretty (I break out in hives when I get cold). So we enjoyed the beautiful falling snow and relaxed until it cleared up later in the afternoon and we were able to go for a scenic drive and dinner at the Timbermine. Oh and we stopped at the site where Derek proposed to me-isn't he so cute!

Thanks Derek for all your hard work, I am the luckiest ever. I love you so very much! Thanks for a wonderful first year.

Turned out to be a cold but nice afternoon!

This is the very spot where we have a picture of Derek on his knee proposing to me-tender!

Our B & B

Morning blizzard-only in Utah do you use your AC and Heat in 24 hours

Our beautiful cake one year later-still looks pretty good and didn't taste half bad either.

special needs?!

2008-09-06T22:27:00.000-07:00

Ok I'm an idiot or something cause I cant get this to work. I tried the new blog looks and found some way cute ones but I cant get them to work! I'm really frustrated with my computer right now and I don't know if my layout is different cause I'm on a mac or what but I'd love to have a cute blog some day. Help!

Help...

2008-08-17T23:01:00.000-07:00

Ok so I'm new to this blogging thing and everyone else's is super cute and ours is lame so I need help. How do I get the cute backgrounds and extra fun stuff? Someone please train me in blogging 101!

Wii!

2008-08-17T22:37:00.000-07:00

So we went to Jessica and Adams for a fun night of BBQ and playing on the Wii-being a first time gamer you can see i wasn't too good. Thanks for a fun night guys!

Baby Grayson loves watching video games...

Monet to Picasso...

2008-08-02T16:40:00.000-07:00

So the UMFA (Utah Museum of Fine Art at the U of U) is hosting some very big artists works now through September, and I was fortunate enough to go see it today. It was amazing and I recommend everyone goes before it leaves our state-chance of a lifetime for most of us! I've always enjoyed art-historic and contemporary but seeing a Monet or Van Gogh in person is an entirely new experience. You see Van Gogh's on postcards calendars and prints in peoples homes but unless you go to see it in real life you will never appreciate those brushstrokes and techniques like you should-absolutely amazing!

Graduation!

2008-07-25T22:39:00.000-07:00

I finally did it! I made it through school and now am an official photographer-and what do you ask do I do with it? well work at the credit union still of course! JK i'm still working on that.

But the entire fam was so supportive and came out to see me get the diploma (I think they all wanted proof that I really did it)

My and some fellow photo major friends!

Bees Game

2008-07-25T22:32:00.000-07:00

Take me out to the ball game, take me out to the crowd, buy me some peanuts and crackerjacks....

For my brother Allen's Birthday the whole fam went out to the Salt Lake Bees game. Go team go!

Easter...

2008-07-25T22:29:00.000-07:00

So I know i am totally backtracking now but i'm on a roll.... This last easter Bryan and Catherine came over to decorate Easter eggs with us. Little juvenile you may say but hey we're still young at heart!

Zoo!

2008-07-25T22:04:00.000-07:00

Last month we took on the rugrats (my adorable nephews) and took them to the zoo! Tons of fun and Brody did not want to leave he loved those animals so much!

Welcome!

2008-07-25T20:52:00.000-07:00

Welcome to our blog! I created a blog a few months ago for my photography but now you can find out what Derek and I have been up to in our personal lives. These pictures are from the 24th of July Parade, before I turned into a tomato with my sunburn. Cathy joined us and we all had fun cheering on the floats. Our stake float (First Encampment Park) was looking pretty good and the young women and I had a hand in that beautiful masterpiece-yay!