It's A Wonderful Life!

3 weeks..........

2010-06-30T16:54:00.000-07:00

And it's back to Home Sweet Home, USA! I don't know whats to come. But I'm packed busy for the first month or so. So much left to do here (packing, etc) and SO little time. What's next? New Zealand, Africa, Europe, Dubai?? I have NO clue. Maybe it's homebound for awhile. Decesions...Decesions!!!!!!!

Sultanas and Crust!

2010-05-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Today we were at the park for a picnic and I caught myself saying something my babysitter used to tell me growing up. (That's you Verla!) I remember sitting at the table and her always telling me that I had to eat my crust. No kid likes crust! (normal ones anyway) But why did I have to eat it? Because it makes your hair shiny. While we were at the park for a picnic the kids were protesting their sandwiches because usually to cut the crusts off I use cookie cuters. So no, they were not in a fun shape, AND they had crust. Then I told them if they eat their crust, it will make their hair shiny. It worked. Thanks for the long long ago childcare tips, Verla :)

Now to the sultanas. The girls were eating them, and I thought I'd have a few. I never like them unless they are in trail mix. I prefer craisins. But, after two I wanted to spit them right back out. They defenitley weren't these true California Raisins that were grown right in my "backyard" growing up:

I love Music

2010-03-16T20:34:00.000-07:00

Especially for a good cause :

It's FALL!

2010-03-09T15:33:00.000-08:00

First things first: I am officially staying in Australia an extra month. The new nanny can't come out til about 3 weeks after my original leave date, which means I get to stay! Even though I have that extra time. I still go home sooner than I ever want to. Reason I don't just stay? I feel like I'm getting old....so time to go home and start a career. The joys of being a grown up!

So it's been about 2 months since an update. I'm so behind on pictures everywhere. And I feel like time has slipped away. Here is for a quick update on what's been happening down under.

March 1- First day of Fall.(And no doubt it felt like it!) It went from such a beautiful day the day before, to cold, overcast, and rainy. The weather wastes no time down here! Not sure how I feel about this really. Because I now want to smell Pumpkin Spice candles, get the fall decor out, which would usually consist of Halloween and Thanksgiving. I want to smell Pumpkin Chocolate Chip cookies baking in the oven! Yet....it's about to be Easter. This is SO weird!

My life is as exciting as it can be looking after two and a half year old twins. I say "and a half" because something seems to change in that half a year. It's more like terrible two and a halves/threes. Although potty training is done and over with. I could not be happier! I had them done in about a week.

My brother in law was just out from Utah, for a business trip. Was fun to see him, catch up, and talk about family. Just knowing he was only around the corner, even though we were both working, was so nice!

We have neighbours next door who are from Provo, UT. Really??? Yes. It's such a small world. They have a 2 yo little boy who the girls have loved playing with.

I promise to try and be better. Next update may even be picture worthy! :)

My 2009 in pics

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2009 has been quite an interesting year for me, yet exciting and adventurous!

January: I was still living in Phoenix, and had been working for LifeTime Fitness. Continued my weekend hikes with the besties. Was good as can be!

February: Things had changed, and I ended up moving to Utah. Although, I LOVE LOVE LOVE AZ, it was not for the best at this time. I packed up, and one of my good friends joined me on the drive to Utah and helped me get all settled!

March: My job transfer with LifeTime went through, and off I was to join a new crew! Was the best thing I ever did.

April: I had been working at LTF for a month. Loving the "new" job. Although, not so much loving Utah. And quickly remembered why I left it, once I got stuck in a nearly a foot of snow, when it should really have been SPRING! I had started applying for nanny jobs abroad. 3 days later, was offered a job in Sydney!

May: I had missed my friends in AZ too much. Home I went, just for a getaway. Then to NYC with the nieces and nephews!

June: I started saying goodbye to friends and family near and far! Went from Utah to Idaho, to Utah, to Arizona, to California. Left my favourite team I had ever worked with. Planned and partied at my dad's 60th Birthday party. Saw realtives I hadn't seen in YEARS! And a few days later, I was on my way to Sydney.

July: First things first....I missed my absolute favourite holiday of ALL TIME! (4th of July). But had been getting settled in Sydney. Celebrated the girls 2nd Birthday.And trying to come to terms with the fact that it was WINTER in July.

August: Meeting new people. And just living it up. Nothing particular. Just a couple rugby matches!

September: Jen and Bryan (sis and bro in law) had come out for a visit. Bryan had a bussiness tip here, and his office happened to be around the corner! Spent lots of time with my sis, and showed her the place I oh so love! A day in history for Sydney. As it suffered one of it's worst Dust Storms, ever! I remember waking up to the smell of dirt, and looking outside and it was ORANGE as can be (as you see in the pics!) Weirdest and most Erry thing EVER. Was to be inside all day. As no one was meant to be out. Oh, um.......I dusted.

October: I went to New Zealand. Auckland. Had SO much fun. Went Bungy Jumping off the Auckland Bridge.(which 3 years ago you never could have paid me to do). I was so excited to do it............until I got to the edge and FREAKED out. But just did it, and now I want to do it ALL THE TIME. I loved, loved, loved it! Skydiving next? YES PLEASE!

November: Scored free tickets to a box at the Nickelback Concert (thanks Pippa!) Got all frocked up and went to the races. Then took a weekend away to Melbourne. Liked it, but defenitley prefer Sydney.

December: Beach. Boat. Pool. That's where I live, for it is SUMMER.and I LOVE it. Also went to see the Fireworks over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. SOOOOOOOOO many people. Sat for 7 hours waiting. So worth it.

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas, and has a happy and healthy New Year!

With Love,
Kim

It's True..........

2010-01-07T20:37:00.001-08:00

I am SO behind, but and working on a rediculous update. Meaning all of 2009, BUT in a nutshell.Needless to say, my blog is UNDER CONSTRUCTION! While you wait, I will leave you with this. A video that on of my best friends posted, and it gave me chills. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did!

Un-invited Visitors!!!!!

2009-11-30T13:45:00.000-08:00

You can either have a nice Spring breeze, and expect these to come visit. Or, you can not have either. Thing is by the time these HUGE cockroaches hit the doorway they die. But who wants to pick THAT up and throw outside. I have never been so disgusted in my life. These are the biggest and most hideous cockroacehs I've ever seen. Can't leave ANYTHING food wise on the counters at night. It will be covered. Supposidly, this is normal in Australia. Everyone gets them. I find NOTHING normal about this!!! I can't believe I even posted this pic. Sick! Not to mention the spiders. And the fact that we are supposed to check our shoes before we put them on??
On a better note: Today is officially the FIRST DAY OF SUMMER! May the beachin' it continue........

Outta Whack!

2009-11-04T18:39:00.000-08:00

It's Spring time here. And soon to be Summer. Thus my background. Though, I must say I am missing the feeling of fall. Halloween in Spring just didn't feel quite right. Christmas in Summer (100* weather at that) will be so weird. Nonetheless, I'm taking what I've got and enjoying it at it's best. Been beachin' it TONS lately!! And loving every minute of it. With Spring, comes the big races over here. Horse races. Everybody gets all "frocked" up and heads out for a fun day. That's next weekend for me. As I'm spending this weekend on the beach with my Canadian friends :)
Melbourne trip the weekend after that, Christmas party the weekend after that, "Nanny Night Out" the weekend after that, taking the Girls to see "The Wiggles!" the weekend after that, then Christmas. Why oh WHY no matter where you are, this time of year is always SO busy! I know I am oh so behind on pictures. But I will gather some to put up very soon. For now, I must go Soak up the sun, while I'm missing Fall.

Behind!

2009-09-14T05:28:00.001-07:00

I'm SOOOO behind on posting, it's insane. I mainly post all my pics on Facebook now. It's a lot easier, and just about everyone seems to be on there, so yeah. Life in Australia is absoluetly amazing. I get along so well with the family, and the girls are as cute as can be. Defenitley 2, but still cute! My sister and brother in law were recently out for a visit. My brother in law had a bussiness trip here, and his office happened to be located litteraly down the street from where I live! It was a lot of fun to have them in town, and SO hard to say goodbye. I had JUST adjusted to life here, and sometimes think seeing people from home happened TOO soon. But, I was counting down the days til they came, and LOVED every minute of it while they were here.
I feel SO incredibly lucky to be able to be here and have this experience. Sometimes on crazy days, I have to remind myself, that some people would give anything to have what I do!!

Here are a few pics from recent days!!

* It's Illegal to hold a Koala in the state of New South Wales (will be making my way to Queensland for that adventure!) But you can pet them!

* The other picture of of me and my friend Natasha and just myself at Bondi Beach. I LOOOOVEEEE it here in Australia. And being SO close to the beach just makes it THAT much better!

When I grow up......

2009-08-02T06:21:00.001-07:00

I always wanted to be a teacher. But once I figured out how much I HATE school, that SO changes. But only a little bit. There has always been this thought in my mind that maybe I will become a High School World History teacher. It'd be amazing! But along with that comes this list...that I'm contemplating for careers. Too many choices. And have NO clue where to go and what to do.

- The latest..... Police Academy. What's better than being a Police officer. It's not about the uniform. Not about the authority. But for me...about helping other people. Those in need.

- Beauty School...people always feel better about themselves when walking out of a salon. You just feel good. Or I do anyway. And how much fun would it be to chop off and dye hair all day??? Easy peasy.

- Daycare ... I've done this forever. It's what I know. That's why I wonder if once I get home it's time to move on? Sometimes I wonder. But at most times, I could not imagine my life not working with kids. In this type of job it is SO not about the money. Just the other rewards that come with it. The feeling. Some know what I mean. It makes everything you do worthwhile.

- Flight Attendant.... why would you not want to make someone elses trip more enjoyable? Get them a drink, or help them feel more comfortable. Maybe even taking their ticket at the gate. Somoene has to do it. And it is still one of the top things I TOTALLY want to do. Although I had the chance, the timing just wasn't right. If it's meant to be, it will happen again. I have no doubt about it.

-HS World History teacher....still an option. When I learn to love school. 4 freakin' years??? Kill me now!

Australia at last!

2009-07-13T05:16:00.001-07:00

It's been.....who knows how long since an update. Too long. I've made it to Australia. It's just as beautiful as it's talked up to be. Actually...better! I love love LOVE it here already. These pics are just from last Saturday night. Went out with these two girls I've met, and had a blast! Will post more pictures later. But, I'm blogged out for the night. This update continues pic wise, so keep clicking "older post" to see all the fun stuff. I forgot what it was like to have so much free time, to blog! Free time meaning, I only work from 7am-6pm now, instead of the 5am-11pm. Sometimes, I'm just not sure what to do with the time. As I'm meeting more and more friends, I don't think I have anything to worry about. Miss you all!

PS- Proud Aunt shout out. I have a new nephew as of 6/22/09 and a new niece as of 7/10/09. That makes for 15 nieces and nephews! Miss and love them all!

2009-07-13T05:09:00.000-07:00

Double Trouble!

2009-07-13T05:03:00.000-07:00

These are the twins that I now nanny. Cute as can be!

DOUBLE TROUBLE!

Meet Madeline!

And Imogen!

Cake Making

2009-07-13T04:59:00.001-07:00

I've always wanted to take cake decorating classes, and start doing cakes. I made my nieces huge Cup Cake cake for her first birthday, and decided I'd take up my own on my birthday. ( For those that don't know, I have a shoe obbsession, and limegreen and pink are my favorite colors!) My little nephew Lincoln decided to help as well....

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Happy 60th Birthday, Dad!

2009-07-13T04:40:00.000-07:00

California was a blast. While there I, along with help from the siblings threw my dad a 60th surprise Birthday Party. It was a lot of fun. My Uncle and one of my cousins from Alaska flew in for it. My Aunt and 2 of my cousins from San Fran. came down for it. All my siblings from Utah, CA, had come out for it. Defenitley missed my brother from AZ, as his wife was due with their 2nd baby ANY DAY! The pictures below are a mixture from my dad's surprise party, and just family in general. Also, our "June Birthdays" family party. June is a popular month for us : June 1 is my niece Lauren's Birthdy. June 19th is my brothers, June 22 is my dad's and my nephews AND my new nephews! June 23rd is mine. It made for a fun time. And one last Happy Birthday to Dad!

Family and Dad's 60th

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Cousins!

2009-07-13T04:19:00.000-07:00

It had been about five or more years, since I had seen any of my cousins. A few of them were down for my Dad's party, and I was able to see my other cousin in SF before leaving for Australia. It was so much fun. I miss them lots and love them tons!

Arizona June 2009

2009-07-13T04:13:00.000-07:00

So, on my way home to Cali, I made a stop in AZ. To see my best friends there, Nikki and Heather. And also of course, I stayed with my little Peyton and brother and sister in law. It was a lot of fun to see them. When I was there, I was hopping for another nephew. No such luck, but about 4 days later, Peyton became a big sister! While there, I got treated to Peyton's beauty Salon. Also, to find myself in a water war with her. But not nearly as much as her Grandma Bryce did! We also went on a night Rhino(4wheeler type thing) ride, and then went looking for "Scorpins" with a blacklight so her daddy could kill them! Luckily, they were all in the back ally, none at the house! I love that little girl to pieces, and miss he more than anyone knows! Talk about guilt trip: "Kimmy, why you going to Australia, don't you just want to stay in "fatcher" (Thatcher) with me? " Awwwww.

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New York City

2009-07-13T01:50:00.000-07:00

So, the week before I left Utah, went a little like this. Monday-Arrive home from NYC. Fri-Sun were spent in Idaho. Sunday I got home from Idaho- Friends over for dinner. It was a CRAZY week, but so worth it, and so fun. Here are a few NYC pics. I went with my sister that I used to live with there, and her family.While her and her husband were both at work during the day, I, took the 3 rugrats below out in the city. BY MYSELF. Double stroller and baby Bjorn. I'm sorry, but I refuse to stay in! Let's just say I've never been starred at so much in my life. Along with some of the crazy comments I got. Oh the city life! I also got to see one of my friends from London who is currently living there. Was SO fun, and I LOVE the city life. Had I not been coming to Australia, I probably never would have left NYC.

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This last pic was by accident, but if I may say so myself, it is freakin' adorable!

Good Times- Good Friends- Goodbyes

2009-07-10T21:48:00.001-07:00

Here are pictures, in no particular order. My work had a dinner for me. I also went to Idaho to see my friends Katy and Steve, before I left, and they just had a baby boy. There's a pic of me and Baby Stellar, and the blanket I made him. Got to see my friend Lindsay while I was there, who I hadn't seen since before her mission. Also I had fun seeing friends in Utah, whom all came for dinner before I left. The Mills', Smith's, Laucks, and (soon to be) Bolander's :) (How do you like the way that sounds Court ;) I also got to see Rheanna, before I left. I miss everyone loads already, but want to say to LifeTime Fitness friends..thanks for putting on the dinner. Riley's, Thanks for having me! Lindz, glad I got to see you! And everyone else, thanks for coming to dinner! (Must give a shout out to Kristie, for that REALLY YUMMY dessert!!)

2009-07-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

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Goodbyes

2009-07-10T21:28:00.001-07:00

Camryn's First Birthday

2009-06-15T17:24:00.000-07:00

Utah- Random

2009-06-15T11:57:00.000-07:00

Here are some random pictures of things I've been up to since in Utah. Mainly of the nieces and nephews. It was fun to be able to spend some time with them, as I didn't get to see them that often while living in another state! The flag pic is of my nieces Hope of America performance. I also got to see Becky ( a childhood friend of mine.) It had been WAY too long! And of course, I made a stop at the London market in downtown SLC. Spent at least $40, but was worth every penny of it, to have some of my favorite English snacks!

Arizona-May 2009

2009-06-15T11:41:00.000-07:00

In May I went to Arizona to visit one of my very best friends. I had been talking to her husband, so she had NO idea I was coming to town. It was fun to surprise her, and I WISH I had it on video. When I lived in Arizona, we used to go hiking every other weekend, with our good friend Nikki. So as tradition called, we went for a hike. It was a lot of fun. I was also able to see the girls I used to work with at the gym here. And 3 of them had babies the last few months. So I was excited to meet the little ones as well. And of course we hit up my favorite resturants. Buffalo Wild Wings, Macayos, and Nakama (best sushi i've had to this day!). I was also able to stop in and see my old nanny kids as well. The got so big, in such a short time!

Idaho- March 2009

2009-06-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

Katy's baby shower in Idaho. This is Rheanna and I. We took one of all three of us, which shall remain unseen. ( We weren't very smart and took it the morning we left. RIGHT when we woke up. SCARY!)

Sweet things!

2009-06-10T14:53:00.000-07:00

I LOOOOOVE Summer time. It's ALWAYS my favorite time of year!! But this is what makes it that much better....

*My daily Sonic runs. Route 44 Diet Coke with Vanilla, Easy ice.

*Chocolate Covered Cinnamon bears (Not only a summertime treat, but I'm on a kick!!)

*Snow Cones.....two or three a day please.

Thank goodness I get a free gym membership!

Oh the little things I will miss while I'm gone!!

2009-04-10T13:55:00.000-07:00

This is almost a year late, BUT better late then never. My best friend Katie and I made this bet in July 2007:

JUNE 2008 :)

2009-04-10T13:42:00.000-07:00

AUSTRALIA: Ready or Not, HERE I COME!

2009-03-14T21:40:00.001-07:00

Yes, It's true! Over the past week, I've been speaking with a family in Australia, regarding a nanny position. After Skyping with them 2 nights in a row, they have officially offered me the position and I could NOT be happier! They have 2 girls, 20 months old (twins) Imogen, and Madeline. So I will be keeping busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way. They received over 200 applications for their position. And I really have NO clue how out of 200 people, I'm the lucky one?! I'm more grateful than anyone could ever understand! If all goes well and as planned (visa approval, etc) I will be moving to Sydney, the first week in July. Everyone start saving those pennies to come for a visit! I can't wait for this new adventure to begin!

Does life get any better?!?!

Fresh new Start!

2009-02-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

So, I haven't blogged in almost 2 months now, and have absoluetly no excuses to give for it. I've started a well need whole new blog. And with that, I am giving myself a WELL needed fresh new start....I've had a major unexpected move to UTAH! All for the better. Not my first pick, but seemed right for the time being. Below, you will find pictures of my weekly hikes with 2 of my bestest friends ever in Phoenix! Along with a road trip pic or two, of me and my other best friend who drove up with me and helped me move SOME of my stuff here. The rest shall come very soon. For now, it's sitting in storage. again. Anyhow, the first morning we woke up, my car was COVERED. My friend found it hilarious at how pissed I was when I had to brush off all the snow. There it was. Reality of my new so called "home". The three girls are my very best friends in Phoenix, and I miss them all SOOOO much. Then I met some friends at Hard Rock the night before I left for a small dinner party. It was so much fun. I miss them all so much already. As much as I miss the SUNNY WARM WEATHER. But realize that Phoenix isn't going anywhere, anytime soon, so I can always go back! Then to Utah pics. The nieces and nephews were teaching the Wii ways. And then in one of the pics, I had to sneak little Lindsey a sip of Diet Coke. ( Sorry Jen, I had to teach her the ways!) My brother just left this morning with his daughter and wife. They came up to visit from AZ. I miss them loads already! I took tons of pics with my little Peyton. Hope everyone is well, and if you are in Utah, I look forward to seeing you sometime soon!Love,Kim

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New Blog on it's way!! Currently Under Construction!