Tyler & Amelia Johnson

August 2011 - Colby's Birth Pictures

2012-01-14T16:15:00.001-07:00

After his bath - They had to wash his hair several times because he had SO much of it.

With Dr. Tutt

Mom holding Colby for the 1st time. It had been a long 2 days. I look pretty exhausted! And drugged!

After 5 long days in the hospital, Colby (and mom and dad) were WAY ready to go home!

August 2011 - Colby's Birth Story

2012-01-14T16:15:00.000-07:00

So, along with having a baby in the month of August, I also switched jobs (careers, actually). I was so incredibly sad to say goodbye to my favorite people ever at Rollins & Petersen Orthodontics, but it was a huge blessing in our lives for me to be hired by Gilbert Public Schools as a sign language interpreter. It had better hours, summers off, more money, and health insurance benefits, all of which were quite important since we had our little boy on the way. I started at GPS on August 10 and just 13 days later, gave birth to the most precious baby. Here is the story (if you don't already know it):

So, my body broke out in a crazy rash just a few days before Colby was born. It was the most uncomfortable thing and didn't know if I could have lasted until Colby came on his own. After a hospital visit on Saturday, August 20 to see what the mysterious rash was, we left with no answers since all the blood work results came back normal. I did, however, receive a steroid shot to the booty, which seemed to help a bit. Dr. Beck (the doctor on call that weekend) said that I would need to be induced on Monday though, since we had no idea what this rash was or what was causing it. They had to wait until I was 39 weeks and 1 day. Plus, Dr. Tutt (my actual doctor) would be back Monday to see me and deliver our baby.

Monday morning, August 22, we were supposed to check in the hospital at 3:30am, but of course the rooms were full. We had both already taken work off so we sat around, very impatiently, for the hospital to call with a free room. That never happened, so we went to lunch and Target for some last minute things to keep ourselves busy. Finally, we went to Dr. Tutt's office to see if there was anything they could do to help us. At this point, the rash was unbearable. I was itchy all over and couldn't handle it anymore. Dr. Tutt wasn't in, but the front office girls suggested we just show up at the hospital and wait till they got us a room. So, we did!

We showed up at Banner Gateway around 3:00pm. Shockingly, they got us back in a labor and delivery room about an hour later and started me on pitocin. Because I wasn't progressing, they took me off pitocin and started me on cervidal. I was supposed to be on that for 12 hours, so I tried to relax and get some sleep before the big day. The next morning, Tuesday, August 23, they started me back on pitocin around 11:00am. They also got an epidural started for me. It worked for a little while, but eventually wore off (or as the nurses said, the needle moved, and I wasn't getting any medicine). They ordered ANOTHER epidural for me and again, it wore off. They said they've never seen anything like this before, where 2 epidurals moved and didn't work. So, needless to say, I was feeling a lot of the contractions and was very uncomfortable. Dr. Tutt kept coming in and checking on me, but things were moving very slow. They also told me that the baby was face up and had me start switching laying on my sides to get him to flip. I've never been in so much pain in my life and so exhausted since I hadn't eaten all day.

As it was getting later and things were just not progressing, Dr. Tutt finally made the call at about 9:15pm that we needed to schedule a c-section. I was completely terrified because this is exactly what I was afraid of. I did not want a c-section, but we didn't really have a choice, since I had already been in labor for about 30 hours. I was feeling every contraction as they prepped for surgery. It was the scariest experience of my life as I watched nurses and doctors rush all around me to get things in order and wheel me into the OR. Tyler had left to get scrubs on and fill our family in on what was happening. They had all been waiting in the lobby of the hospital for most of the day waiting to meet our baby. It was about 9:30pm when everyone was ready to go for the c-section.

At 9:51pm, our precious Colby Tyler Johnson was born by emergency c-section, weighing in at 7 pounds, 3 ounces and 21 and 1/4 inches long. Dr. Tutt said that Colby was extremely stuck in my pelvic bone and his bruised face showed that. He also said that even if things had progressed fully, Colby wouldn't have come on his own because my pelvic bone is too narrow to deliver. And we would have had to do a c-section anyway. I'm so grateful for modern medicine and a doctor who knew exactly what to do and when to say enough is enough. Although this was one of the scariest experiences in my life, it was also one of the most spiritual and life-changing experiences. Colby has changed our lives in so many amazing ways.

May 2011 - July 2011

2012-01-14T16:10:00.000-07:00

May 2011

We had our 4 year anniversary. With a new house and baby on the way, we didn't do anything crazy.
June 2011

Summer started and we spent lots of time at the pool, since I was getting quite large and it was bloody hot!

July 2011

We went to San Diego for the 4th of July. It was a blast and we enjoyed our last year of being at the beach without a baby.

January 2011 - April 2011

2012-01-14T16:05:00.000-07:00

January 2011

We were just getting settled in our new house when we found out we were expecting our first baby! WAHOO!

February 2011

We celebrated my golden birthday, 25 years old on the 25th of February.

March 2011

We celebrated Tyler's birthday on St. Patrick's Day.

April 2011

We found out on April 1st that we were having a precious baby boy. Even though I was REALLY hoping for pink, we were so excited to finally know what we were having. Tyler was especially excited to be getting his mini-me!

October 2010 - December 2010

2012-01-14T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well, since it has been WAY over a year since an update, I figured I would fill you in on what has been happening in our lives. Let's just say that A LOT has changed since September 2010. We will just do a quick month-by-month recap of events, then I will try to keep a better journal of our lives from here on out....

October 2010

We were supposed to close on our house mid-October, but because of stupid Bank of America, the deal fell through the day before we were supposed to move. Everything happens for a reason though. We ended up signing a contract for a brand new house that weekend instead. (The other house we were supposed to buy was 10 years old and needed all the flooring ripped out and lots more money put into it. So, in the end, it was a true blessing.) Our new house was a spec home and would be done being built by the time we were supposed to close around Thanksgiving.

November 2010

Thanksgiving time - So grateful for all our many blessings! We had lots to be grateful for. Our new house was almost finished, but we weren't quite ready to close on it, like we had originally thought. Darn!

December 2010

What a busy month! Drew got married, we moved the very next day, and 3 days later it was Christmas!

$25 & Under Boutique

2010-09-24T09:48:00.001-07:00

Check this out tomorrow! You won't wanna miss it! Bling Bling by Amelia will be there, along with OOPS! burp cloths and many other vendors!

NEW PRODUCT - Crochet Headbands

2010-07-31T18:40:00.001-07:00

Check out these precious crochet headbands for babies! Available in black, brown, white, light pink, and bright pink. Crochet headbands look great when combined with a gerbera daisy hair clip (3.5"), available in 12 different colors. Create any color combination for the perfect baby shower gift (alongside a blinged pacifier and OOPS! burp cloth, just an idea). Email me or comment if interested in purchasing. Crochet headbands won't last long at this amazing price! Check out these great deals listed below!

Crochet headbands ONLY $3.00 each if purchased individually

1 crochet headband & 1 gerbera daisy flower hair clip combo ONLY $6.00

1 crochet headband & gerbera daisy flower hair clip combo & 1 blinged pacifier ONLY $15.00

2010-07-23T14:57:00.003-07:00

Bling Bling by Amelia

(blingblingamelia.blogspot.com)

50 % OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Get your peony hair clips (5") for 50% off while supplies last. See post below for what colors are available. Hurry! Flowers won't last long... Email me NOW!

New Updates

2010-05-29T16:21:00.003-07:00

* New grad - Tyler

* New full-time job - Tyler

* New part-time job - Amelia

* New blog - Amelia

So proud of Tyler for graduating and getting a new job.

So excited to see what the future brings for us.

So glad to be back in the cheer scene and coaching 2 all star teams at USA Starz.

So happy to announce Bling Bling by Amelia is back via blog world.

Check out my blog at blingblingamelia.blogspot.com. All products and prices are listed there (flower hair clips, beanies with flowers, blinged pacifiers, blinged flip flops, ribbon tied flip flops). Just contact me! All products can be purchase at my mom's house. Just email me NOW!

AND THE WINNER IS....

2010-03-01T07:49:00.002-07:00

Better late, than never! Sorry for the delay!

The winner of the BLING BLING BY AMELIA GIVEAWAY is (by random drawing)....

ASHLEY HATCH YOUNG

Email me at tylerameliajohnson (at) gmail (dot) com to claim your prize. Thanks for playing. Others who entered the contest can receive 25% off any orders through the end of March. Thanks again!

BLING BLING BY AMELIA GIVEAWAY!

2010-02-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, it is time for a BLING BLING BY AMELIA giveaway... Here are the rules:

1. Post on your blog about my Bling Bling by Amelia giveaway.

2. Include a link to my blog on your post about the giveaway.

3. Leave a comment on this post with your name and email, so I know you entered the giveaway.

4. Check back to this blog on February 25 (my birthday) to see if you won!

Winner will receive $25 in Bling Bling by Amelia merchandise (your choice of product)! So get posting about Bling Bling by Amelia and enter this awesome, FREE giveaway!

PEONY FLOWERS & BEANIES

2010-01-29T16:00:00.000-07:00

Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas were all amazing! I'll spare you the details, but all were spent with family and friends.

The reason for my lack of blogging: busy with work (my day job) and my new adventure with Bling Bling by Amelia. My items are now in Glitter Box at SanTan Mall and I just received new product, shown below.

The peony flowers are available in the 9 colors shown below, are about 5.5" each, and are $5.00 each. The cotton beanies come in sizes for infants and toddlers, have a 5.5" peony flower on them, and are $12.00 each. They are randomly matched colors, so contact me for specific orders. Contact me if you are interested in any flower clips, beanies, pacifiers, or flip flops! Thanks!

Stay tuned for a giveaway involving my Bling Bling items! It will be worth it!

$25 & Under Boutique - This Saturday!

2009-10-19T08:15:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, October 24th, from 12:00 - 5:00pm there will be a different kind of boutique going on. All the vendors will be selling items that are $25 & under. I will be one of the vendors featured there. All the items listed below on my blog will be available for purchase at this boutique. Plus, I will be taking custom orders for flip flops as well. There will be a lot of awesome vendors there, so come see us! And make sure to pass the word along. :)

Dreamy Flowers

2009-09-30T22:10:00.001-07:00

Here are the new, dreamy flowers! The flowers are 3.5 inches wide. I have 4 flowers in each color available, and there are 12 colors total. Below are pictures of the flowers. The flowers can be bought as pictured for $2.50 each or with BLING (15-20 clear rhinestones) for $5.00 each. Email me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com to call dibs on the flowers. First come, first serve. I have a limited quantity on hand, for the time being. Check them out!

Red, Brown, Yellow, Peach, Light Pink, White, Bright Pink, Light Blue, Black, Light Purple, Cream, Orange

New (& Old) Bling Bling Hair Clips

2009-09-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Old Bling Bling Hair Clips - $2.50 each

Here is a list of the colors & how many of each are remaining:

Green - 7

Yellow - 10

Light Pink - 5

Light Blue - 3

Purple - 2

Fuschia - 8

Blue - 10

Light Purple - 9

New Bling Bling Hair Clips - $4.00

Here is a list of the colors & how many of each are remaining:

Light Purple Polka Dot w/Clear - 12

Turquoise Polka Dot w/Clear - 12

Brown Polka Dot w/Clear - 3

Pink Polka Dot w/Clear - 13

Blue Polka Dot w/Clear - 12

Red Polka Dot w/Red - 9

Brown Polka Dot w/Brown - 8

Bling Bling Pacifiers - $8.00

(Sorry the pictures aren't great... It's hard to take pictures of BLING!)

Email me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com to call dibs on these Bling Bling hair clips & Bling Bling pacifiers. First come, first serve! Bling Bling items can be picked up at my mom's house (Romney's) or mailed for an additional charge. Hope to hear from lots of you! Thanks!

Pictures of new DREAMY flowers coming soon... Check back! You won't want to miss it!

Much Needed Update... Cali, Car Wreck, Cancun!

2009-09-29T20:00:00.001-07:00

Here is an update on what we have been up to:

We have both been extremely busy working & Tyler is going to school (graduating May 2010... YAY!). Here is an updated family picture from our trip to San Diego in July with Tyler's family. We had a great time & loved having the week-long break from reality...

A couple weeks ago, we were rearended in my car and it was totaled. We were sad to say goodbye to the Lancer. I drove that cute, red car for 4 years and loved it (especially since it was paid for - thanks mom & dad). But, alas, we said adieu and recently got a new car. We love it, but Tyler gets to drive it the majority of the time. Oh well! Someday I'll get used to the new car. So far, I still give myself whiplash when I hit the brakes... a little bit touchy.

I just got home from Cancun last weekend. We went for "work" aka a trip just for fun. The doctors were so generous to take our whole office (20+) girls to Cancun for a few days. We stayed at an all-inclusive resort & had the time of our lives. We visited Chichen Itza, the amazing Mayan ruins & one of the Seven Wonders of the World. I'd never been to Mexico before, but loved every single minute of it. The beaches were gorgeous & a good time was had by all. Thanks, Dr. Rollins & Dr. Petersen! I really work for the best doctors. At the beginning of the summer, I started a new position at work as the financial coordinator. I love it! It keeps me VERY busy. I really love where I work & who I work with & for. (Oh yeah... And I got my braces off two days before the trip to Cancun. It was a sweet week for me!)

Stay tuned for an update on BLING BLING... New colors of clips, old colors of clips, and new DREAMY flowers! I can't wait to share!

BLING BLING!

2009-06-22T19:04:00.002-07:00

With school being OVER and a little more time on my hands... BLING is back! I won't be making mass quantities to have on hand at all times, but I will be taking orders for flip flops and pacifiers {cutest shower gift ever - along with OOPS! of course} and making more clips here and there {which I will post as I make them}. Let me know if you are interested. Email me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com or tylerameliajohnson (at) gmail (dot) com. I'd love to BLING for ya! You know you need some BLING!

Clips starting at $3.00 each

Flip flops starting at $15.00 per pair for kids, $25.00 per pair for adults (BYOFF... Buy Your Own Flip Flops - Just bring them to me to BLING!)

BLING FLIP FLOPS

2009-06-12T12:59:00.003-07:00

I have BLING flip flops that are already made (used for samples in the past) that I'm wanting to get rid of. They are priced very, very low. If you are interested, just leave a comment or email me at tylerameliajohnson at gmail dot com. Here is what I have (ALL LITTLE GIRLS SIZES):

Size 10/11 White Old Navy flip flops w/clear rhinestones ($15.00)

Size 8/9 Silver Old Navy flip flops w/clear rhinestones ($15.00)

Size 8/9 Black Old Navy flip flops w/clear rhinestones ($10.00)

Size 8/9 Gray, Silver, & Pink Old Navy flip flops w/gray rhinestones ($15.00)

FINALLY GETTING CAUGHT UP.....

2009-06-11T16:21:00.004-07:00

Oh my goodness.... The last few months have been CRAZY BUSY, to say the least. Sorry for not blogging. I hope to be better. Here is what we have been up to....

In January, Tyler & I went to the sand dunes. It was my first time going and it was freakin' windy and freezing cold. Needless to say, I looked like Ralphie from "A Christmas Story" all bundled up. It was lots of fun and hope we will go again when it cools down. We gotta use that rhino more often since we are the proud owners of it!

In February, Tyler & I went to Disneyland and California Adventure for Valentine's Day. It was a fun trip for us. It poured rain the first day, so we got our money back (which we still have 2 adult one-day park hopper tickets that don't expire until 2012, if you need some). But, the next day was perfect, so we hit up both theme parks all day long. It was a short weekend trip that we both needed badly.

In March, Tyler & I, with the help of MANY people (which we are so very thankful to), made our move from our first house to my parent's house. It was bittersweet, like my last post said. We are so grateful for my parents and the opportunity we have to live with them. It has been such a blessing so far and we have loved it! Goodbye orange house! We will miss you!

In May, I FINALLY GRADUATED FROM NAU! YAY! I graduated with a Bachelor's in Organizational Communications. I got to wear the special gold cords for graduating Summa Cum Laude (aka I graduated with a 4.0 GPA). It has been quite the semester, and I'm so glad to finally be a college graduate. I'm so grateful to my parents for allowing me to get my education while I can. I'm so lucky to have a college degree, especially with the economy we are in. I love the job I am at right now with the orthodontic office. In fact, I just got promoted to do the financial position, which I'm so excited for. I'm also going to be working on getting my substitute teaching certificate this summer so I can start substituting in the fall on my days off. We took the trek up to NAU in Flagstaff for my graduation. It was a fun little day trip. Thanks to all those who supported me on my special day, especially Tyler! Next year we will make that trek again for Tyler to graduate. I can't wait until we are both done with school. It will be such a relief!

Finally, on May 25, we celebrated our 2 year anniversary. I can't believe I have been married for 2 stinkin' years. Crazy! We just went out to lunch and went shopping on our anniversary. It was a fun day off, since it was Memorial Day. I'm such a lucky girl to be married to such an awesome guy! Love you!

Until next time....

CHANGE = Bittersweet! (Picture-less Post, Sorry!)

2009-02-06T13:09:00.003-07:00

So, I just arrived home from my last day of work at Pulliam Custom Homes, Inc. It is such a bittersweet thing for me. I've worked for them for 2 years and have loved it. They treated me awesome and were so flexible with my schedule and extremely generous. But, with the economy in the hole, general contracting/home building is just a scary field to be in, as I'm sure you know.

All that being said, I start my new job on Monday at Rollins & Petersen Orthodontics. We (Tyler and I) seriously count our blessings that I was able to find another job while I was still employed. We realize how lucky we are that we both are employed with awesome companies.

In addition to a new job, we will also have a new address in about 5 weeks, which is just another blessing from Heavenly Father (and apparently He answers prayers all at one time at our house). Tyler and I will be moving in with my parents in a few weeks to save some money so we can hopefully buy a house when he graduates next spring. We are SO VERY grateful for my awesome parents and their serious generosity in allowing us to move in and disrupt their quiet, empty house. We are also extremely happy that Tyler's mom and dad will be temporarily housing our little pup while we live with my parents. They rock!

In summary, Tyler and I are grateful for awesome jobs and awesome parents.

Change is a good thing!

The End!

Notary = Me!

2009-02-06T13:07:00.003-07:00

In case you ever need anything notarized, I am a public notary! Just thought I'd let you all know...

By law, I can only charge $2.00 per notary. I'll hook you up for free... Just a little service I provide! You're welcome! :)

Bling Bling Colors Remaining....

2009-01-01T14:00:00.002-07:00

I've had some people ask me what Bling Bling hair clip colors I still have in stock... Here is a list of what I have left:

5 red

13 yellow

2 pink

12 light pink

5 purple

14 light purple

9 fuschia

15 blue

7 light blue

1 navy blue

11 green

They're just $4.00 each now! Get them while you can. Once they are gone, they are gone! Just email me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com to order! Thanks!

FOX10 NEWS STORY LINK

2008-12-30T09:15:00.003-07:00

For all that missed it... Here is the link for the news story about my dad! (By the way, I think they did a GREAT job portraying my dad's story. I was very impressed and pleased! Thanks FOX10!)

http://www.myfoxphoenix.com/myfox/pages/Home/Detail?contentId=8163407&version=2&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=VSTY&pageId=1.1.1

Fox10 News Internship

2008-12-29T12:14:00.004-07:00

Well, I promised that I would update with a "news" story. So, here it is:

My internship at Fox10 ended a few weeks ago. It was the best experience and I loved meeting all the news people at Fox10. (After all, they are practically celebrities to me, the news buff.) But, I am glad that I won't have to wake up at 3:00am two days a week. That wasn't too fun. But, I am grateful for the experience and hope to possibly work in the news business later in life.

So, while completing my internship, I took advantage of the hook-ups that I had. I made a suggestion that they should do a feature story on my dad's medical situation.

Surprisingly, they LOVED the idea and back at the beginning of November, this lovely reporter, Laura Sambol, came to interview my mom and dad at their house. (I was present, of course. It was such a cool experience to be a part of it all.)

The story will be on tonight, Monday, December 29th. It will be their feature story in their "Only on Fox" segment in the 9:00pm news hour. Please watch it and tell everyone you know to watch it. It tells the story from the beginning to where we are at now. We are hoping with this news coverage that someone will be watching that can help my dad get better and back to the things that he wants to do. We all want our dad/grandpa back to his normal self!

My mom posted a reminder about the news story as well. Check it out here:

http://stuphfromsteph.blogspot.com/2008/12/set-your-dvr.html

** I will be putting a link on this blog tomorrow once the story has been aired for those of you who aren't in Arizona or miss the story. **

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T08:53:00.003-07:00

Merry Christmas from Tyler and Amelia (and our UGLY Christmas sweaters)!

P.S. I know you love our sweaters... You can have one too! Check out CVS - Just $6.99!

Have a great Christmas!

Another Holiday Boutique...

2008-12-17T10:17:00.002-07:00

HOLIDAY HOME BOUTIQUE
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20th

8:00AM - 4:00PM

2121 EAST LAUREL CIRCLE, MESA 85213
(around Gilbert and McKellips)

BLING BLING BY AMELIA WILL BE THERE!

BLING BLING HAIR CLIPS - ONLY $4.00 (while supplies last)! WHAT A DEAL! 50% OFF!

Make a great stocking stuffer!

BLING BLING FLIP FLOPS - By custom order only! Price depends upon flip flops. Must supply own flip flops.

HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! (There will be about 10 other vendors there as well!)

BLING BLING INVENTORY SALE!

2008-12-13T10:54:00.003-07:00

Bling Bling Hair Clips are on sale for just $4.00 each (originally $8.00).

Bling Bling hair clips will be $4.00 until all the inventory is gone. I have about 100 bling clips left. They make GREAT stocking stuffers!

Email me if you would like to purchase these at a great price. Once they are gone, they're gone! Get them while you can!

Also, you can custom order flip flops. Just buy your own favorite flip flops and I will charge you just my time and the bling. What a great deal! Email me to custom order.

Stay tuned for a "news" story! Coming soon...

She's Got It All Holiday Boutique

2008-12-02T09:47:00.003-07:00

I'll be there again! Bling Bling hair clips make the perfect stocking stuffer, along with a new pair of Bling Bling flip flops.

Don't miss this boutique! Note the new location and times. Hope to see you there!

Mindy Gledhill Concert

2008-10-17T09:37:00.002-07:00

Mindy Gledhill is putting on a concert next Saturday, October 25th, at Mountain View High School at 7:00pm. She has the most amazing voice ever. All proceeds from the concert tickets and sales of her CD at the concert will go towards the Nielson Recovery Fund and the Kinneard family, who lost their dad in the plane crash. Tickets are available at www.mindygledhill.com for only $15.00. Go support the Nielson and Kinneard families and hear an awesome concert.

Happy 1st Birthday!

2008-10-14T11:21:00.006-07:00

Happy 1st Birthday to Snickers!

All Good Things Must Come To An End....

2008-10-08T12:24:00.003-07:00

.... And so ends my quest to be a professional BLING-ER!

After about a year of BLING-ING, I am putting up my jewels. I can't really find the time to keep up with it, what with a full time job and full time school and my internship. It just isn't realistic and it might drive me crazy in the process.

So, to end this good thing, there's a SALE!

All remaining Bling Bling hair clips (left in my inventory stash) will be $5.00 each instead of $8.00. What a deal! So, just email me what colors you want and your wish is my command!

blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com

Thanks to the girlies who sport BLING on a daily basis! You rock!

(As a side note, I still have all the tools and material to create Bling Bling hair clips and Bling Bling flip flops and Bling Bling pacifiers... So, Bling orders can still be placed. I just won't be mass producing anymore. So, please, if you want to order, just let me know! I will be more than happy to assist you and give you a deal!)

So You Think You Can Dance Concert

2008-10-08T10:38:00.003-07:00

So, our awesome mom took us sisters to the SYTYCD concert last night... It was three hours long and jam-packed with dance after dance. I swear they practically did every dance from the season. The dancers were incredible and I loved every minute of it! Thanks mom! You rock! We love you!

Two Words To Describe The Concert -

Amazing & Chills!

She's Got It All Fall Boutique - THIS FRIDAY!

2008-09-30T11:42:00.002-07:00

Friday, October 3rd, 2008

6:00 - 8:30pm
(at Vicki Sherwood's house)

(if you don't know where that is...
e-mail Suzanne or Shalae at customerservice@shesgotitall.net)

Gear up for fall with Halloween & Fall decor, a new purse, clothing for the season, and more boutique-exclusive items including:

*She's Got It All products

*J Purses & Tees

*Denim Lovers jeans

*Jewelry by the Bead Diva

*Funky Bums - vintage tees for children

*Bling Bling Hair Clips by Amelia

There will also be a benefit raffle ticket sale - several GREAT prizes means SEVERAL WINNERS!

*All proceeds from the benefit raffle will be donated to the Christian and Stephanie Nielson Rehab fund.

Hope to see you there, even if you come just for the sake of donating money to the Nielson family.

* They will only be accepting cash & checks.
* No children please - babies are OK!

Happy Birthday Mom!

2008-09-16T10:36:00.022-07:00

Happy Birthday to the BEST MOM EVER! She really is (and if you know her, you would agree)! Here are 50 reasons why my mom rocks (because she is 50!):

1. Gave birth to me – DUH!?2. Has the cleanest house known to man, even if she doesn’t think so

3. Loves the color pink – any shade

4. Never leaves the house without makeup or hair done

5. Plays the piano and organ beautifully
6. Exceeds in her callings – whatever they may be

7. Makes awesome birthday cards/thank you cards/any card

8. Takes great care of my dad
9. Loves reality shows (almost) as much as I do

10. Writes Elder Drew probably every SINGLE day… maybe twice a day
11. Loves to read books 12. Wants to re-do her kitchen SO bad (anyone want to donate to the kitchen fund?)

13. Has an immaculate car

14. Loves to garden

15. Has enough Christmas décor for 12 families
16. Must have her manicure and pedicure biweekly… or else

17. Loves Café Rio salads18. Would NEVER move off of Harmony Avenue, UNLESS there was a street created for all her friends to move to (P.S. Her friends are AWESOME!)

19. Is the perfect wedding planner
20. Makes gorgeous flower arrangements
21. Creates the most ingenious handouts for lessons all the time
22. Makes yummy desserts and meals

23. Hates the color orange… and Halloween
24. Is an excellent, perfect seamstress

25. Must have her hair appointments scheduled out for months

26. Can iron like no body’s business – super crisp and clean lines (after 6 cans of starch)
27. Loves to play cards or dominoes 28. Has the best house décor

29. Is really, extremely organized in all she does

30. Always has a fancy technological tool that she doesn’t quite know how to use (iPhone, Mac computer, etc.)

31. Loves musicals
32. Very generous of her time and talent

33. Has the cutest grandkids ever
34. Can’t live without Diet Coke
35. Is an extremely clever blogger
(http://www.stuphfromsteph.blogspot.com/)

36. Throws the best wedding/baby showers with her friends37. Loves the Orange County swap meet

38. Spoils her family all the time

39. Taught me to appreciate music
40. Hates watching movies

41. Can wrap presents perfectly – with a perfect bow too
42. Hates animals
(God rest her soul!)

43. Makes pretty jewelry

44. Has awesome son-in-laws

45. Takes great pictures of events to remember

46. Is an easy person to talk to

47. Willing to do anything and everything for anyone

48. Loves Sonic ice
49. Never missed an event (game, recital, competition) of mine or my siblings growing up

50. Because she is MY mom! And she is the BEST mom!

HAPPY 50th BIRTHDAY, MOM! YOU'RE THE BEST! I LOVE YOU LOTS!

I'M THE NEWEST.....

2008-09-10T14:16:00.005-07:00

..... INTERN AT FOX10 NEWS!

That's right, yours truly will be working with Ron Hoon, Rick D'Amico, and Alexis DelChiaro on Monday mornings in the newsroom and Kari Lake and John Hook on Tuesday afternoons/evenings in the newsroom. I can't wait. I start on Monday. Wahoo!

You might think I'm a news dork....

AND I AM!

I LOVE THE NEWS!

And yes, I do know all their names at FOX10 News! They are my favorite for sure. I watch FOX10 religiously, in the morning while I get ready and either at 9:00pm or 10:00pm every night. I'm doing the internship for credit for school, but hope that it might turn into a real job someday. I'm excited to see what this new internship brings and what I'm going to learn. Wish me luck!

Side note: I practically have to buy a brand new wardrobe for said internship.... Apparently, jeans and t-shirts are not considered professional. Dang! Wish me luck in the shopping department as well. Business slash profesh clothes, here I come!

The Sweet Shoppe Outdoor Market

2008-09-02T09:58:00.005-07:00

The Sweet Shoppe will be holding its first backyard market THIS SATURDAY, September 6th.

It will be held at the Amos residence (2332 East Emelita Circle, Mesa 85204) from 10:00am - 4:00pm.

There will be raffles and giveaways going on all day.

Yours truly will have her BLING there, for all your BLING-ISH needs! (And there will probably be discounts on Bling Bling hair clips, baby pacifiers, and flip flops... You'll just have to come and see!)

Don't miss out! It will be a great day of fun shopping and socializing. See http://thesweetshoppemesa.blogspot.com/ for more details! Hope to see you there!

BLING GIVEAWAY!

2008-08-18T14:10:00.005-07:00

If you haven't checked my BLING BLING BY AMELIA blog or haven't received a comment about it, it's time for a BLING GIVEAWAY!

You could win a set of

THESE...

a pair of

THESE...

OR one of

THESE...

just for commenting on my BLING blog. So, comment away (at my other blog, blingblingbyamelia dot blogspot dot com)!

Contest ends Monday, August 25th! Spread the news!

Cali, Baby!

2008-08-11T14:22:00.005-07:00

Last week, we returned from a much needed, week-long vaca to San Diego with the Johnson fam. I won't overwhelm you with the nearly 100 pictures, but just a few to give you an idea of the fun we had at the Del Mar beach, La Jolla Beach, Carlsbad outlets, and tons of other fun!

We are already ready for next year's trip... And hopefully a trip really soon with the Romney side! Get better soon, Dad!

A LONG Overdue Post...

2008-07-22T11:12:00.003-07:00

It has been WAY too long since I last updated and lots of fun things have happened...

We went to the Diamondbacks game with Aaron and Chanelle - Thanks for inviting us! It was fun, even though we lost horribly. We had sweet seats! Thanks again!

Then we went to Tyler's Aunt Fernie and Uncle Dean's cabin in Strawberry in June with Melanie and Jake. It was nice to get out of the heat for the weekend. Melanie and I intently read Twilight (Amelia) and New Moon (Melanie) while the boys went on an adventure in the woods in the dark. We played games on Saturday night then went to the Natural Bridge on Sunday morning. It was pretty cool, even though I'm not an outdoors-y girl. And we made friends with a chipmunk/squirrel after feeding him a granola bar. He loved us!

Then, my awesome mom took Amanda and me to the American Idol concert. It was so much fun. It was more than 3 hours long of singing and rocking out. I loved it. For a better re-cap, check this posting from my mom... http://stuphfromsteph.blogspot.com/2008/07/idols.html. Her description matches mine and she has better pictures too!

Other than that, we have just been working and going to school, like always. Nothing too exciting, except for the fact that we are going to California this weekend for a whole week and can't wait! More updating to come when we return from a week of fun in the sun...

BLING BLING FLIP FLOPS & HAIR CLIPS

2008-06-17T13:57:00.007-07:00

Check out www.blingblingbyamelia.blogspot.com or see the information below regarding items and prices!

Bling Bling Flip Flops (Kid's)

Price: $30.00 per pair (additional price for adult sizes)

* Made with Old Navy Kid's flip flops and 148 real swarovski crystal rhinestones.

* Must be custom ordered by emailing me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com.

* Let me know size and color of flip flops and rhinestones wanted. Flip flops can be made within 3-5 days of order, in most cases.

*Hurry and order yours NOW for summer! Perfect fashion item for summer in Arizona.

Bling Bling Hair Clips

Sold Individually ($8.00 each) OR
in Brights, Lights, or Neutrals Collections ($35.00 for 5 clips)
* All Bling Bling Hair Clips made with 18 real swarovski crystal rhinestones, grosgrain ribbon, metal alligator hair clips, & velcro to avoid slipping out of hair.
* Many hair clips already pre-made and ready 24 hours after ordering, in most cases.
* Order your Bling Bling Hair Clips by emailing me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com!

BRIGHTS: Amethyst (purple), Light Siam (red), Fuchsia (purple-pink), Sapphire (blue), Rose (pink)

LIGHTS: Light Amethyst (light purple), Jonquil (light yellow), Light Sapphire (light blue), Peridot (green), Light Rose (light pink)NEUTRALS: Crystal (white), Jet (black), Black Diamond (gray), Montana (navy blue), Smoked topaz (brown)

Bling Bling Hair Clip Giveaway (SORT OF)!

2008-06-06T10:04:00.003-07:00

It's a BLING Giveaway (sort of)!

I figured if it worked for my mom, it could work for me too! I'm doing a Bling Bling giveaway, sort of.

For every person you refer to Bling Bling by Amelia (who actually orders something), you will receive one FREE Bling Bling hair clip.

(If you refer 30 people, you will receive 30 FREE Bling Bling hair clips!)

When you refer someone to Bling Bling by Amelia, at the time they place their order at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com, they must mention your name for you to receive a FREE Bling Bling hair clip.

Try it! It's the best way to get the word out about my new little company, Bling Bling by Amelia, and earn yourself some FREE BLING!

Happy Referring (and weekend)!

Just in Case....

2008-05-27T12:09:00.004-07:00

.... you don't check out my other blog, Bling Bling hair clips are on SALE through June 15th. Orders placed before June 15th are ONLY $6.00 per hair clip, instead of the regular $8.00 per hair clip. Colors are listed below. Just email me at blingblingbyamelia (at) gmail (dot) com to order. And please specify colors when ordering. Thanks!

BRIGHTS: Fuchsia (purple-pink), Light siam (red), Sapphire (blue), Amethyst (purple), Rose (pink)LIGHTS: Light amethyst (light purple), Jonquil (light yellow), Light sapphire (light blue), Peridot (green), Light rose (light pink)

NEUTRALS: Crystal (white), Jet (black), Black diamond (gray), Smoked topaz (brown)

Fitness Works - 3 Months = $20.00

2008-05-27T11:59:00.002-07:00

I can hook you up with a 3 month pass to Fitness Works (Higley and Baseline and/or Gilbert and Queen Creek) for just $20.00 - Just ask me! It's totally worth it. I'm so excited to start going to classes and attempting to work out for the first time in a long time (sad to admit)....

1st Anniversary Pictures

2008-05-27T11:52:00.004-07:00

So, I decided, as an anniversary tradition, we MUST take a picture for every anniversary and we MUST watch our wedding DVD (which I cry every time I watch it... I know, pathetic). So, we did just that this past weekend. Tyler surprised me with these lovely roses Sunday morning. They are even prettier now because they are starting to open up. But, you get the idea from the picture. We went to Tucson just overnight, to get out of town and relax. It was nice to be lazy and lay out by the swimming pool. We had fun! It's nice to have your anniversary near Memorial Day. We will always have the 3-day weekend to celebrate!

1 Year Anniversary (Already?)

2008-05-25T00:00:00.001-07:00

Love You I Do

(DreamGirls - Jennifer Hudson)

Never met a man

Quite like you

Doing all you can

Making my dreams come trueYou’re strong and you’re smart

You’ve taken my heart

And I’ll give you the rest of me too

You’re the perfect man for me

I love you I do

Mm I love ya

I’ve never felt

Quite like this

Good about myself

From my very first kiss

I’m here when you call

You’ve got it all

And confidence like I never knewYou’re the perfect man for me

I love you I doYou’ve got a charm

You simply disarm me every time

As long as you drive

I’m along for the ride, your way

I said it before

There won't be a door

That’s closed to us

Putting all my trust in you

Cause you, you’ll always be true, Oh I never could have known

This would be,

Oh you and you alone, yeah

Now for me

I know you’re the best

You’ve passed every test

It's almost too good to be true

You’re the perfect man for me

I love you I do

You’re the perfect man for me

I love you I do

What a perfect day, one year ago, May 25, 2007! Seriously, the best day of my life! Thanks so much to these two, my mom and dad, for making this special day absolutely perfect and making my wedding day a dream come true. I know that was a crazy week (graduation, wedding, etc.), so sorry! But, it was seriously picture perfect! Check out my mom's blog for pictures of the wedding decorations. To die for!

stuphfromsteph.blogspot.com

And thanks to our awesome families for being there for us on our special day!But, especially thanks to my amazing husband. Tyler, you are perfect for me and make me want to be better every single day. I love you so much!

Happy Anniversary! And to many more in the future!

NEW BLING BLING ITEM AND SUMMER SALE!

2008-05-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

Check out my Bling Bling blog for the NEW summer item and awesome SUMMER SALE! You won't regret it! Check out blingblingbyamelia (dot) blogspot (dot) com NOW!

Guitars and Birthdays

2008-05-20T09:24:00.008-07:00

Sunday, May 18th, was Tate's 2nd birthday and my dad's 52nd birthday. That's right, Tate was born on my dad's 50th birthday, just like I was born on my grandma's 50th birthday. We had a celebration at mom and dad's house, complete with cake and of course, GUITARS! Tate has this fascination with guitars (I still have no idea where it came from). But, he finally got a guitar of his own, so he and grandpa had a jam session together. It was so cute! Pretty much a priceless Kodak moment. See for yourself...

Only One More Year of This!

2008-05-20T08:47:00.003-07:00

Northern Arizona University

Spring 2008 Grade Report
Amelia Johnson - Undergraduate
My Grade Report

BIO 300 - DNA

Grade: A

Credits: 1.00

BIO 300 - Global Warming

Grade: A
Credits: 1.00

BIO 300 - Plants and Human Life

Grade: A

Credits: 1.00

HUM 371 - Humanistic Values

Grade: A
Credits: 3.00

SC 315 - Business and Professional Speaking

Grade: A
Credits: 3.00

SC 323 - Intercultural Communication

Grade: A
Credits: 3.00

COM 230 - Small Group Communication

Grade: A

Credits: 3.00

Current GPA

4.00

Breakfast of Champions!

2008-05-15T08:44:00.002-07:00

PLUS

EQUALS

BREAKFAST OF CHAMPIONS!

My Mom Rocks! That's All!

2008-05-12T10:18:00.007-07:00

So, I had a fab weekend in Cali with my sisters and mom. We drove there on Friday, went to the Orange County Market Place, got pedicures, and saw the Newport Temple on Saturday, and drove home on Sunday. A good time was had by all. It was tons of fun to just be with the girls!

The first find of the day... a sweet wallet to match her already stylish purse!

The best find of the whole trip... Guitar glasses for Tate, who can't seem to get enough of the guitar these days! Good job, Manders!

What posers! I love this pic!

Awesome (not white trash at all) hats! Amanda looks fantastic in the one that says "Jesus is my boss. Amen."

The hat all alone (and probably stayed that way all day long)

Another awesome (not white trash at all) hat!

"Cheaper than Costco... Cheaper than Walmart... We're just DAMN cheap!" = Priceless

All worn out from a day of shopping for 7 hours at the Orange County Market Place

Mom showing off a couple of her buys of the day, a sweet Elmo shirt and the guitar sunglasses for Tate. Rock on, mom!

Amber showing off her buys of the day

Amanda showing off her purchases, minus the fake tree in the back of mom's carMe showing off what I got at the swap meet (Apparently I had a black and red and white theme. I got a zebra purse with red, a red bling shirt, a white swimsuit coverup, and a black with cherries cover for my flat iron for traveling.)

After such a long day, we needed pedicures for sure... (Well, Amber already got one a few days earlier and so did mom. So, they got their eyebrows waxed and Amber got a manicure. Amanda and I got pedicures and my mom just had a foot massage. Awesome! I LOVE PEDIS!)

The two pregos (Amber was a trooper at 37 weeks pregnant, walking around all day at the swap meet. I was impressed!)

Eating at yummy Mario's (My mom is taking the picture, but is still in it in the mirror.)

In front of the Newport Temple... So pretty!

The flowers were SO pretty and could never be grown like that here in Arizona.

Let me explain this picture, briefly... We stayed at this same hotel MANY years ago and they didn't have TVs with closed captioning so Amber could watch and my mom wrote them a nasty letter about how they need to provide services for the hearing impaired because it is a law. So, we saw this awesome sign in the lobby when we were checking in and decided it was a Kodak moment. They probably added that sign after receiving the awesome letter from Steph Romney!

All in all, the trip was so fun! We had never had a girls trip before and I decided they need to happen more often.

Thanks mom for everything! And Happy Mother's Day (yesterday)! You're the best mom ever. I know you would do anything and everything for us without even thinking twice. You're not only the best missionary mom (like Drew said), but you're just the best, most awesome mom period! I love you so much! Thanks again for such a fun trip!

Ode to Craig Smith

2008-05-09T08:23:00.005-07:00

So, for many of you, you had Craig Smith as a Senior English teacher at Mesa High School. Sadly and happily, she is retiring this year after many wonderful years of teaching lots of punk high school kids. So, please join us all for a lovely get together/par-tay to honor this fab teacher!

When: Tuesday, May 13th from 3:30pm - 5:30pm

Where: Mesa High School Library

Be there to support an awesome teacher and bid her farewell to be her life's goal and wish and ultimate dream, a Chinese farmer! We love you, Craig! (Make sure to spread the word to others who may have had the awesome chance to have Craig as their teacher!)

Just a Reminder....

2008-04-22T08:24:00.002-07:00

Just wanted to remind ya'll about the bead party!!
Bring your moms, sisters & friends!

WHEN: THIS Thursday, April 24th
TIME: 7 p.m. 'til whenever {Come & Go}
WHERE: Amber Hansen's casa {email me to get directions...
amberleigh[dot]hansen[at]gmail[dot]com}
WHY: To make beautiful/cute necklaces, bracelets, or earrings. This would make a great Mother's Day gift, end-of-the-year gifts for teachers, or just because!

Check out www.beaddivas.blogspot.com
for ideas and samples!

*** I will be there selling my bling bling clips and pacifiers www.blingblingbyamelia.blogspot.com
AND
my mom will be there with her stinkin' cute burp cloths www.stuphfromsteph.blogspot.com ***

It's A Birthday Party

2008-04-21T12:42:00.005-07:00

It's another party.... And you're invited again! Come check out She's Got It All on their first birthday! And yours truly (ME) will have her Bling Bling Hair Clips there for your viewing and purchasing pleasure. 15 awesome colors to choose from! What more could you want? Be there on May 2nd. It will be so much fun! Make sure you mark it in your calendar and come with your friends, sisters, and moms!

We're Having a Party! YOU'RE INVITED!

2008-04-15T13:26:00.010-07:00

FROM AMBER HANSEN'S BLOG (my sister):

I am {EXTREMELY} excited to announce that I am having a bead party at my house. You are all invited! Leave your kids w/ your hubbies and bring your sisters & friends. This is a fun GIRLY event. I have been to a few hosted by Kanoe Cummard and they are a BLAST! The choices & ideas are endless! Come join the fun! Here's the scoop:

WHEN: Thursday, April 24th

TIME: 7 p.m. 'til whenever {Come & Go}

WHERE: Mi Casa {email me to get directions...amberleigh[dot]hansen[at]gmail[dot]com}

WHY: To make beautiful/cute necklaces, bracelets, or earrings. This would make a great Mother's Day gift, end-of-the-year gifts for teachers, or just because!

If you want to order a letter charm for your necklaces, you can let email Wende at least one week in advance before the party so that she can have those letters available by then. Her email address is: ninfoster[at]cox[dot]net. I ordered an "A" for Addi & a "H" for Halleigh, for example, if you don't know what I mean. :o)

Check out this blog to see different cute items from Bead Diva: www.beaddivas.blogspot.com

Be there or be square! It will be tons of fun. Even if you just want to be there to socialize, there will be plenty of it. Email me or my sis if you are interested in coming. There will be some Bling Bling products there as well. You don't want to miss it!

Privity Boutique

2008-04-09T14:39:00.003-07:00

Check out my Bling Bling products (along with other stinkin' cute bling-y stuff) at a new boutique on the northwest corner of Lindsey and McKellips. It is called

Privity!

You won't be disappointed. I promise. Just check it out. Bags, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, shirts, jeans, shoes.... ALL BLINGED OUT! Check it out and let me know whatcha think.

Hours: Tuesday - Saturday

12pm - 6pm

Shameless Plug.... I Know!

2008-04-04T11:43:00.008-07:00

Now that the only boy is gone, this truck needs to be gone too. And since I have this handy-dandy blog, I'm going to post it on here too. So, if you know anyone looking for a sweet truck, look no further. Here it is:

2003 Black Chevy Silverado Single Cab, Short Bed Truck

* 4.8 liter, V8, 2 wheel drive

* Only 70,216 miles on truck

* In excellent condition, no problems whatsoever

* Asking $10,900.00 OBO (negotiable)

* Leave a comment or email me at tylerameliajohnson (at) gmail (dot) com if you or someone you know wants to buy it!

I Hope They Call Me On A Mission....

2008-04-03T11:07:00.003-07:00

.... is what my mom is thinking right now I'm sure. I think she secretly wishes she could go with Drew to Mexico City. He is officially a missionary now. Check out this super cute picture from my mom's blog! So tender!This is the night Drew, I mean Elder Romney, got set apart. What a handsome missionary! We will miss his sense of humor and quick wit for the next two years. Love you, Elder!

Old Colors.... New Colors! Check 'Em Out!

2008-03-18T09:30:00.003-07:00

Check out the old colors and new colors of Bling Bling hair clips at blingblingbyamelia.blogspot.com! Get your Bling Bling hair clips to stuff those Easter baskets this week! Only $8.00 each! Check out the other blog and email me at blingblingbyamelia@gmail.com! Thanks!

Happy Birthday to My Leprechaun!

2008-03-17T08:47:00.008-07:00

Today is my hubby's birthday! He is a St. Patrick's Day baby! He is the big 2-5 today (which means our car insurance goes down)! YAY! Here are 25 reasons why I love Tyler (in no particular order):

1. I love Tyler because he is stinkin' attractive - vain, I know, but oh-so-true!

2. I love Tyler because he married me.

3. I love Tyler because he honors his priesthood.

4. I love Tyler because he took me to the temple.

5. I love Tyler because he keeps me safe.

6. I love Tyler because he loves the beach and amusement parks.

7. I love Tyler because he loves the Suns.

8. I love Tyler because he loves Mexican food, almost as much as I do (and he made me put up with Matta's and still does at Matta's Grill).

9. I love Tyler because he can be ANYONE'S friend, really he can.

10. I love Tyler because he loved Maggie more than anyone in our family.

11. I love Tyler because he loves his nieces and nephews.

12. I love Tyler because he loves my family.

13. I love Tyler because he provides for our little family by working really, really hard.

14. I love Tyler because I know he is going to be an awesome dad one day.

15. I love Tyler because he has a strong testimony of the church.

16. I love Tyler because he would do anything and everything for me.

17. I love Tyler because he can grow a beard in one day.

18. I love Tyler because he absolutely loves car shopping more than anyone I know. (He's had 3 trucks since I've known him...)

19. I love Tyler because he is awesome at yard work (if only WE had a yard).

20. I love Tyler because he is way better at taking pictures than me.

21. I love Tyler because he is going to be a firefighter one day (we hope).

22. I love Tyler because he loves talking about his mission and experiences there.

23. I love Tyler because he makes me a better person.

24. I love Tyler because he loves Dr. Pepper, just like me.

25. I love Tyler because he was born 25 years ago on this green day!

(This was on the "It's A Small World" ride on our honeymoon and it is the St. Patrick's Day section. It is hard to tell!)

I love you, babe! I hope you have a great 25th birthday (even though it will be spent at work all day and school tonight). You deserve it though!! You're the best ever!

HAPPY BIRFDAY LITTLE BRO!

2008-03-12T10:50:00.005-07:00

It's Drew's 19th birthday today!

Happy Birthday Drewski!

Even though he picks on me sometimes (actually, all the time), I'm still gonna miss him when he leaves to serve his mission in Mexico City. We will all miss him! He rocks!

(These were the only pictures I had of Drew.... Sorry! To see a better tribute/more pictures of cute Drew, see my mom's blog at stuphfromsteph.blogspot.com.)

NEW BLING BLING BABY!

2008-03-10T11:27:00.004-07:00

Check out the newest Bling Bling Baby Pacifiers at blingblingbyamelia.blogspot.com. You might die! They're real cute (in my opinion, which might be bias, since I made them)! Here is just a preview.... perfect for Saint Patty's Day!

Pain is Beauty! Or So They Say....

2008-03-06T09:13:00.003-07:00

Last night, I had Chelsea (Allen) Lake tattoo my eyeliner. I was her original guinea pig during her week of training. I was her very first model and had her tattoo my eyebrows. Chelsea doesn't use a tattoo gun, like some other permanent makeup places. She uses a method called SofTap. I am so happy that I did my eyebrows and eyeliner. Apparently, I swell up like a champ! My eyes are way swollen today, but I'm a trooper and am at work anyway. Chelsea is awesome at what she does. She also does esthetician stuff too. Call her to get a consultation for permanent makeup (480-205-2472). She works out of Leah's salon, Salon Boutique, on Val Vista and Williams Field. Check out my pictures from last night right after we were done with my eye liner.

Bling Bling in Salon Boutique

2008-03-03T10:54:00.003-07:00

For those of you who don't see Amber's blog, I thought I would post the display poster she made for my Bling Bling hair clips. My friend, Leah Fitts, is starting to do hair at Salon Boutique (on the southwest corner of Val Vista and Williams Field) and asked if I wanted to display/sell my Bling Bling clips there. Of course, I accepted and asked Amber to make a scrapbook-y display for me. Here is the final product. She is too perfect! I love it!

Happy 22nd Belated Birthday to Me!

2008-03-03T10:42:00.006-07:00

The Romney family celebrated my 22nd birthday yesterday. My sister came through with her promise and made 22 funfetti cupcakes for dessert. Mmmm! I love those cupcakes. Some may say I am 5 years old. Oh well. I still love them (and so did Amanda, Brent, and Tyler). These pictures document my feelings and emotions as my family sang Happy Birthday to me. Wow! It was quite the rendition!

Thanks Mom, Dad, sisters, brother, and brother-in-laws! You rock!

$450.00 Richer...... Thanks Amos!

2008-03-03T10:18:00.004-07:00

Here is Amos.

He cost $50.00 on Thursday, February 28th, 2008.

He peed on everything. He barked and yipped.

There went Amos.

He cost another family (who drove up from Tucson with their two children) $500.00 on Sunday, March 2nd, 2008.

Have a nice life, Amos! You were fun while you lasted (not really)!

$450.00 richer! Yay!

Check Out My New Blog!

2008-02-25T12:47:00.003-07:00

Check out my new blog at blingblingbyamelia.blogspot.com!

There are new Bling Bling items on there!

Send your orders to blingblingbyamelia@gmail.com.

Tell all your friends and family about Bling Bling by Amelia!

Happy V-Day! To: Amelia, From: Tyler

2008-02-14T12:50:00.003-07:00

I was pretty impressed, to say the least!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day.....

2008-02-11T10:06:00.000-07:00

Last year for Valentine's Day, Tyler got me Midnight Pomegranate lotion, bubble bath, and spray. It smells real yummy!

But, Tyler knew the real way to my little heart was this all-time hit movie.... in DVD form (not the VHS version with a tattered case that the Romney family had treasured for many years)!

For those of you who don't know, Ferris Bueller's Day Off is seriously my all-time favorite movie. "It is so choice!" I became obsessed with this movie in my early childhood and my love of it has only grown fonder over the years. I have extremely fond memories of rockin' out with my crimper as a microphone during the parade scene as a very young child and quoting many lines from this classic movie! All Romneys quote this movie often and I think Tyler believes I am a sick human being whenever we watch this movie (which only happened once, I think) because I can literally quote the whole thing word for word. I LOVE IT! I laughed aloud at work while finding these movie quotes online. That is how disturbing my obsession with this movie is. If you haven't seen this movie, you must! I will make you! You can borrow mine I guess.

Cameron: Why'd you kick me?

Ferris: Where's your brain?

Cameron: Why'd you kick me?

Ferris: Where's your brain?

Cameron: Why'd you kick me?

Ferris: Where's your brain?

Cameron: I asked you first.

Ferris: How can we pick up Sloane if Rooney is there with her?

Cameron: I said for her to be there alone and you freaked.

Ferris: Now, I didn't hit you. I lightly slapped you.

Cameron: You hit me. Look don't make me participate in your stupid crap if you don't like the way I do it. You make me get out of bed, you make me come over here. You make me make a phony phone call to Edward Rooney? The man could squash my nuts into oblivion. And-and-and then, and then, you deliberately hurt my feelings.

So, I wonder if Tyler can top it this year.... We put a limit on our gifts for each other this year, only $20.00. We both have birthdays coming up and those are more important anyway! He already got me a present and it is hidden in our house somewhere. I haven't bought his yet, but I have an idea of what to get him. So, what are you getting your Valentine this year? Do share!

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

2008-02-05T09:51:00.000-07:00

One of life's simple pleasures.... Love it!

You Can't Complain....

2008-02-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

.... if you don't vote! Get out and do your civic duty. If you need help knowing who to vote for, I am always here to help!

NO!

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I am not only bias because he is my cousin, but he really is the best candidate out there on the ballot. He has the best views on the war, economy, etc. He will change America for the better for sure. Get out there and vote today!

Bling Bling Colors in Stock (Almost)

2008-01-31T10:52:00.001-07:00

So far, I have received a couple of orders for these oh-so-stylin' hair clips. I put my first order in for rhinestones today. Just so you know, I have ordered the following colors:

amethyst (purple)

black diamond (dark gray-ish)

fushcia (pink/purple)

jet (black)

light rose (light pink)

light siam (red)

rose (pink)

smoked topaz (brown)

crystal (plain)

(There are only SO many colors you can choose from on blogger. Sorry! :) I did my best! See color chart below for more accurate colors. OH, I also discovered that between the two stores I ordered from, they don't offer all the colors on the chart. I found that chart on a random website. So far, we discovered that turquoise is not a real option. Sorry! Just ask and I can let you know if the two rhinestone places I ordered from have the specific color you want! Thanks!)

I will have plenty of extra rhinestones to make additional Bling Bling hair clips. Please specify what color ribbon you want when placing your order. (I can pick out the colors that match your rhinestones the best, or you can specify. Whatever works best for you!) Place your orders by Friday, February 8th to have your hair clips ready by Valentine's Day! What a cute little gift!

Email tylerameliajohnson@gmail.com to place your order!

No Such Luck for BLING BLING

2008-01-29T08:51:00.000-07:00

In my search for smaller alligator hair clips, I have failed. They only come in one size. In my own opinion, I think that the size of the clips would look perfectly fine on any little girl that actually has enough hair to hold it. Like I've mentioned before, there is a little piece of velcro in between the clips so it doesn't slip out of your hair. They aren't THAT big to begin with. In fact, they measure a little less than 2 inches in length. Let me know if you would like to order any.... tylerameliajohnson@gmail.com!

Bling Bling Rhinestone Colors

2008-01-28T14:04:00.000-07:00

Rhinestone Colors for Bling Bling Hair Clips

( I can get the rhinestones for the hair clips in these colors, plus any of these colors in the AB finish. The AB finish looks more rainbow-y. Hope you know what that means! Just ignore the bottom 2 charts. I only needed the top chart of the stone colors, but couldn't remove the other 2 charts. So, just pretend they aren't there! Thanks!)

More Bling Bling By Amelia

2008-01-28T10:08:00.001-07:00

Here is more Bling Bling for you to see.... Again, the pictures are poor quality because the bling is so blingy! :) I am looking into finding smaller clips for little girls too. Many have requested smaller hairclips, so I am on a mission to find some. I will keep you all updated when my mission is complete.

Thanks so much for your support! Remember to tell your friends and family!

Please send your orders (in any color ribbon and rhinestones) to tylerameliajohnson@gmail.com!

**** Hairclips are discounted in packages! ****

Bling Bling! By Amelia

2008-01-25T09:04:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am still alive! I know that I haven't posted in nearly a month. The holidays were super crazy! But, we had an amazing Christmas and New Year's. We were really spoiled by the Johnson and Romney families and loved spending time with our families over the break. I was in a real blog post rut. You all have been there, so you know what I am talking about. But, now I am back to introduce to you my new project....

Bling Bling! By Amelia

I am going to start making and selling these rhinestone hairclips. As you can see from the pictures, the clips don't photograph so well because the bling is so blingy. They are small-ish hairclips that have 18 real swarovski crystal rhinestones on them (2 rows of 9). The crystal rhinestones are on grosgrain ribbon. The hairclips are super cute and real blingy. I can make them in virtually any color of ribbon or rhinestones you desire. I just want to see if there is an interest and demand for them before I make 1,000 of them and then am stuck with 999 hairclips at my house. As you can see from the pictures below, they are alligator clips. In between the clips is a strip of velcro to keep from sliding out of your hair. This one I am wearing is white ribbon with clear crystal ab rhinestones.

These clips would make great presents for a friend, sister, little girl, or even for yourself! Pass the word along to all your friends and family! :) Thanks so much!

$5.00 per hairclip

in packages

for a discounted price.

Please email me if you are interested! Like I said, I can do ANY color!

tylerameliajohnson@gmail.com

And the Streak Continues....

2007-12-27T15:37:00.000-07:00

For my entire college career {approximately 3.5 years for those keeping track (and yes, I am on the 5 year plan)}, I have been able to maintain a 4.0 GPA (straight A's for those smart people who do not understand what a grade point average is). Let the streak continue (your tuition money is being put to good use, mom and dad)...

My Grade Report - Fall 2007

Undergraduate - Northern Arizona University

HIS 394 - Recent America
A

SC 321 - Nonverbal Communication
A

SC 351 - Interpersonal Communication
A

SOC 301 - Topics Contemporary Social Issues

Santa Came Early to the Johnson House

2007-12-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

Santa came early to our house this year, unexpectedly. We bought a little puppy last weekend. She is probably the cutest freakin' thing I have ever seen in my life. I totally fell in love with her the second I saw her. We went to look at her brothers and sisters on Saturday. I knew I wanted a little girl puppy and there were only two at this house. When we showed up, they actually had two different litters of puppies, eight weeks old and seven weeks old. The dad Yorkie got a little crazy and knocked up two moms. So, our little girl has half brothers and sisters too. It's so complicated, I know.
As we showed up at the house, a family was already walking away with one of the girls. So, I knew I had to make a decision quick. There was only one girl left, and she was actually much cuter than her sister. Her coloring was so pretty and different. Her sister was just plain black, but she was chocolate and caramel colored (hence the name Snickers, but she has no nuts!). Haha. Anyway, we knew we wanted to take her home, but we weren't prepared to take her that second. But, because she was so dang cute, I couldn't resist (and neither could Tyler). My dad and brother are totally in love with her too. It is so cute! She is so much fun to have at our house! I can't wait to get home from work to play with her. She is super cute, huh?! I just love her!

Name: Snickers Johnson

Breed: 3/4 Yorkie, 1/4 Poodle

Gender: Female

Birthday: October 14, 2007

Weight: Tiny (and she will stay that way)

You probably want one now too! And I don't blame you!

P.S. Her eyes really aren't blue. I don't know why they photograph that way. They are dark brown, I think. But, they are certainly not blue.

I Farted On Santa's Lap

2007-12-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=62SUfLfO6tM

This song is probably the funniest thing I have ever heard in my entire life. They play it on 104.7 KISS FM every morning and I die laughing every single time I hear it. Let me know what you think about it. (You might wet your pants! Seriously! Be really careful!)

"I Farted On Santa's Lap"

Mom made beans for dinner

You know I ate 'em all

She said come get your coat on

We're going to the mall

You're gonna visit Santa

And sit upon his knee

But all that I could think about

Was how not to cut the cheese

Waiting there for Santa

I thought that I'd explode

The gas bubble grew bigger

With every "Ho, Ho, Ho"

Tried my best to hide it

Thought I was doing swell

But when I sat down on Santa's lap

He hollered "What's that SMELL!!"

I farted on Santa's lap

Now Christmas is gonna stink for me

I farted on Santa's lap

Now I'll get $H!+ under my Christmas tree!

I asked him for a baseball

I asked him for a bat

I asked him for some ice skates

But I'll get none of that

I asked him for a lot of things

I'll have to do without

'Cause when I sat down on Santa's lap

I let one slip out

I farted on Santa's lap

Now Christmas is gonna stink for me

I farted on Santa's lap

Now I'll get $H!+ under my Christmas tree!

On Christmas Eve I snuck out of my bed

Without a sound

Went down to the living room

Just to take a look around

It was then that I saw Santa

Next to the Christmas tree

His arms were full of presents

And they were all for me

Put them in a pile

Got up to turn around

And blew a fart with such great force

Our tree almost came down

And so I'll always cherish

That special moment when

I realized even Old Saint Nick

Rips one now and then

I farted on Santa's lap

And Christmas didn't stink for me

I farted on Santa's lap

And Santa left one on my Christmas tree!

Thanksgiving... It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas!

2007-11-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

I know I am a little tardy on my posting... I apologize. But, just so you know, we had a fabulous first Thanksgiving together. It actually was really our first Thanksgiving together too. Last year for Thanksgiving, the whole Johnson family was at the dunes. I was one sad girl that Tyler was not here for that weekend, but we got to spend it together this year as a married couple. Who would have thought at Thanksgiving time last year that I would be spending Thanksgiving with my husband this year?!? CRAZY! Well, we did a lot of running around on Thursday for Thanksgiving. Our first stop was at Tyler's Aunt Fernie's house for the first round of food. Then we had to make an appearance at my Aunt Heather's house, but no eating was involved. Then, that night, we ate Mexican food at my parent's house so we could include my poor dad in our Thanksgiving festivities. Can I tell you that I want nothing else for Christmas, but for my dad to get better?! I would give back all the presents in the world for my dad to be able to be normal dad again. I think that wish for him to be better is on a lot of people's wish list this year and has been for the past 3 years.

Our first Thanksgiving at my aunt's house (Tyler hates this picture because his hand looks a little bit gay. What do you think?! A little bit fem... But, he is still so dang attractive!)

After Thanksgiving, we of course had to put up our first Christmas tree together. It was a team effort. Tyler's mom bought us the Christmas tree and decorations as a surprise. I was so stinkin' excited. All the decorations are so cute on our tree. I love it. I turn it on every time I am home just because I love to look at it. My mom's tree is approximately twelve times the size of mine. But, it's a cute little tree for two cute little people. I freakin' love Christmas!

Tyler stringing the lights...

...lots of lights...

In fact, it actually took six hundred lights (six strands of one hundred for all your math-illiterate people) to make this little tree look perfectly lit!

Then I put all the decorations and ornaments on. It was so much fun to decorate my own tree for my own little family. I loved it!

Tyler was attempting to get a few action shots of the decorating...

The Finished Product... What do you think?!

(Some pictures were taken with the flash on and some were taken with the flash off. I couldn't decide what looked best so you are getting lots of pictures of my stinkin' cute tree! Thanks Mona for the tree and lights and decor! It will be used for a few years to come, until we expand our family and house and have a need for a bigger tree to accommodate all those things!)

7 Random Things About ME

2007-11-20T08:46:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by Calli Ann Huffaker Overstreet,

so here you have it...

7 Random Things About Amelia Nathel Romney Johnson

1. First of all, my middle name is my maternal grandmother's first name. I was born on her 50th birthday on February 25th, 1986, so I have her first name as my middle name. (Amber carried on that tradition by having Tate on my dad's 50th birthday, so Tate's middle name is William, my dad's first name.)

2. I secretly (or not so secretly) wish I could still be a cheerleader. I cheered for four years in junior high and high school and fulfilled my life-long dream of being a UCA cheer instructor for three summers. I loved every minute of it and wish I could still do it. And because I am still close with my boss, Travis Neese (Arizona Idol winner) I still get to work at and judge cheer competitions, which still keeps me in the cheerleading loop and hopefully will for a long time.

3. Until I am forty years old, I will probably continue to be bitter that I never made the Euporea Dance Company at Mesa High. I auditioned two years in a row (my junior and senior year), made it through first cuts both times, and got booted in the final cut both times. And to this day, I still can't get over it! Maybe it's time to let it go... or not!

4. Mitt Romney is my dad's second cousin. So, yes, we are related to him. As my brother would say, "Mitt, '08!!!!"

5. I am IN LOVE with all shows reality. There can be a preview for a new reality show and I will think it is so stupid and that I would never, ever watch it. But, then the night of the series premiere or a new season, I am there watching it. I love reality shows!

6. I have been obsessed with Judge Judy since her show began almost twelve years ago. I used to DVR it when I lived at home and it would make my family so mad because they hated her. Now that I live on my own, I TiVo it every day. I love how she is so straight forward with people and makes them feel 100% stupid. I have probably seen every single episode, seriously!

7. I have never had a job where I didn't have hook-ups from other people. The first job I ever had was at Goody's Yogurt in high school (owners were brother in law and sister of my mom's best friend, Vicki Sherwood). Then the summer after I graduated, I worked for Universal Cheerleader's Association as a cheer instructor for three summers (received an application at cheer camp my senior year and made staff). I worked at my dad's office as a receptionist for a few months (obvious how I got that job). I was desperate for a job and Scrapbooks, Etc. was hiring so I interviewed there and got a job (both Amber and Amanda worked there before I did). The job I currently have is as an office manager for Pulliam Custom Homes (Pulliam's are friends with Tyler's brother in law and sister, Tyler and Kori Treece). So, I have been pretty dang lucky with jobs over the years!

Now I tag whoever wants to do this... Go for it!

One Word: Star-Freakin'-Struck

2007-11-16T08:14:00.000-07:00

I MET JENNY FROM

"THE BACHELOR"!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(I know you're all jealous and, quite frankly, you should be because it was fan-freakin'-tastic!)

Can I just say how hot Jenny is in real life?! And I don't mean that in a lesbian-ish way at all. She really is way hot! And apparently Brad thinks so too! So, Tyler and I had the wonderful opportunity to go to the Sun's game last night, obviously. And I wanted to get to the game real early because I secretly wanted to stalk down Jenny and take my picture with her. Well, to my surprise, all the dancers were out at different entrances, greeting people. And coincidentally, the entrance we walked into, Jenny was standing right there. I didn't even have to stalk her down. She knew I was going to be coming in that entrance and was standing there on purpose. It was totally meant to be. I was freaking out. Seriously! I was! I was so

STAR-FREAKIN'-STRUCK!

I asked Jenny if I could take a picture with her and she said sure. And being the dork that I am, I told her I was her biggest fan. Like, who says that?! I'm such a dork. She said thanks and laughed a little. Then I said, "No, really. I'm, like, obsessed." She laughed again. Then, Tyler took these two treasured pictures at the top of the page, and she told us to have a good time at the game. We said THANKS! And that was the end of that. Then, for the rest of the time we were there, I was stalking her every time the dancers came out to perform or do anything. I think Tyler was a little scared/annoyed of me at the game last night. I really did watch the game. We totally kicked the Bulls' butts and won, but it was close in the end. Anyway, after I met her right when we walked in, I was shaking for a good hour after. Am I pathetic?! I think I am. She is just a girl from a reality show. I can't imagine what would happen if I met a huge, ginormous star. I would make an absolute idiot out of myself if that ever happened. But, let's be honest, Jenny really is a huge, ginormous star, which is why I made a complete idiot out of myself last night. To me, reality stars are real Hollywood stars! That's all! I heart Jenny and "The Bachelor."

These are just two random pictures that Tyler took throughout the game of Jenny dancing in her designated crowd spot. She was right across from the section we were in, so I could continue to stalk her throughout the game. The pictures are a bit blurry, so you can barely tell that it is Jenny, but I know it's her (and if you are as obsessed with her as I am, you know in your heart that it is her, too).

I WAS THERE AND SAW HER IN REAL LIFE!!!

Wedding Bliss

2007-11-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

On Saturday night, we attended the wedding of Rosemary Amos. I went to high school with her, danced with her, and cheered with her. She got married in her parent's backyard and it was beautiful. The Amos' have a ginormous backyard and it was the perfect setting for Rosemary's wedding. After the ceremony, we had Joe's BBQ, which was delicious. Below are a few pictures of the guests who sat at our table. A great time was had by all!

This was our dinner table: me, Melanie, Jake, Melissa, Mark, Amanda, Brent, and Tyler - the photographer (By the way, do you think we all had enough Dr. Pepper that night??!! WOW! We were all a little tipsy after drinking that much.)

As much as we tried... and tried...

and tried... and tried...

It was extremely hard to get a normal picture of Brent, and this one isn't even THAT normal. Oh Brent! Such a weirdo! I had to ask Amanda if they had any normal wedding pictures with him always posing so dorky! She said only a few... Haha. Not so surprising!

Our bestest friends, Melanie and Jacob Veater

Melanie's parents, Melissa and Mark Larson

My mom would call this my "cheer smile." I just can't help it. It's my cheesy smile!

Matta's with the ENTIRE Johnson Fam

2007-11-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the ENTIRE Johnson fam went out to Matta's. Tyler's aunt from Mississippi was in town, so Grandpa Johnson gathered the whole family for dinner on Friday night at Matta's. (I don't think there is any other option for a restaurant to eat at when it comes to the Johnson's. I have had to conform my El Charro and Gecko Grill obsessions to Matta's, even though it isn't my absolute first choice for Mexican food...) Here is our large table with lots of people from that night. I bet the waitress who was assigned our table wanted to quit at that point. We tried to make it as easy as possible though:

A good time was had by all! Grandpa Johnson was really proud of his whole family there. I told him that he was the one who started this whole thing. Look how proud he is at the head of the table!

WE HEART AMUSEMENT/THEME PARKS!

2007-11-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

Along with the beach trips we took this summer, we also visited two amusement/theme parks from coast to coast. We went to Disney World in Florida on our honeymoon and while we were in California for the Johnson family vaca, we went to Knott's Berry Farm. I am such a sucker for amusement parks. I love going on roller coasters and crazy rides. I don't get scared of them at all or sick from riding too many. I think I found a love of amusement parks from going on so many vacations to Disney World, Disney Land, and Six Flags with my family growing up. Thanks mom and dad! Here are just a few (and when I say few, I mean lots) pictures from our summer amusement/theme park visits:

Tyler had never been to Disney World before, so I had to be the tour guide and show him around!

Our good friend, Mickey, looking our way in the parade at the Magic Kingdom

I think Snow White was hitting on Tyler, which is why she posed at the camera... He's all mine, Snow! Sorry!

Snow's friend, Dopey. He's our friend too!

"It's a small world after all, it's a small world after all, it's a small world after all, it's a small, small world... It's a world of laughter, a world of tears, it's a world of hope and a world of fears..." (Haha. Now you have that song stuck in your head for the rest of the day!)

Lovely dancers from "It's a Small World"

Italian restaurant at Magic Kingdom, similar to the one from "Lady and the Tramp" who are sitting right behind us

Tyler was convinced that Jack Sparrow on the "Pirates of the Caribbean" ride was a human being, but actually Jack just looked really life-like.

Right before entering "The Tower of Terror," which is probably one of my favorite rides of all time (Side note: When the Romney family went to Disney World many years ago, Drew lost his tooth on this ride and then swallowed it on the way down when the ride takes a huge drop. Good memories!)

In line for "Star Tours"

After the Indiana Jones show

At Epcot (We went there last, on our way to the airport, because we knew we didn't need to set aside time to visit. There is nothing to do at Epcot except take this picture in front of the big, silver ball.)

And we did partake of the scrumptious churros at Epcot. Can you tell I am way excited about mine??!!

The flowers at Epcot are also delightful.

Waiting in line for "Supreme Scream"

MMMMM..... Dippin' Dots!

On the boat ride with Tyler's sister, Kelsie (Kelsie's husband, Phil, took the picture because he was sick from the ride before and couldn't take another. Haha.)

Picture with Snoopy!

Hope you enjoyed walking down memory lane with me and my summer! Come again!

WE HEART THE BEACH!

2007-11-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I had the lovely opportunity to go to beaches from one coast to the other this summer. We went on our honeymoon to Florida, mostly to go to all the Disney World amusement parks. But, Tyler INSISTED that while we were there, we go to a beach on the east coast. And the rumor is true that the Atlantic Ocean is much warmer than the Pacific Ocean. We drove about an hour from Orlando to Cocoa Beach on Memorial Day. It was pretty crowded, but the perfect day to be at the beach. We stayed for a couple hours that day, and Tyler wanted to go back later that week. So, we did, but the weather was not necessarily beach weather. It was overcast and cold and windy. Nonetheless, we still had a blast both days. Here are some lovely pictures from Cocoa Beach, Florida (My cheeks still look swollen from my D-A-M-N wisdom teeth being taken out just a couple weeks before the wedding!!):

We also went to California towards the end of the summer with Tyler's family. They take a trip to California every summer and camp at one the camping sites near San Diego. This year we stayed at Camp Land on the Bay. I know I am not a camper, but this wasn't REAL camping. We had hot showers and running water and flushing toilets. We just slept in tents and cooked our food outside. We went to the beach every day, and I got FRIED the first day there. California has such nice weather that you don't even realize you are turning into a lobster. This vacation was a lot of fun and I am excited for next summer's trip to Cali. Here are some pictures from our sweet California trip (Tyler and I are lucky enough that our bosses let us have two weeks off in the summer, one for our wedding/honeymoon and one for the Johnson California trip. Thanks Treece's and Pulliam's!!!!!! We have the best bosses EVER! Seriously!):

If you have ever been to the San Diego-ish area, you HAVE to go to VG's. It is the best donut place I think I have ever been to... and I am a perfect judge of whether donuts are good or not. I'm a big fan. I think Tyler has about five shirts from this place. And now I have one too.

Tyler and I being gangsta in our tent on our sweet air mattress after a really long day at the beach. Notice how red my face is, kind of like a lobster...

Messing around with Tyler (a.k.a paparazzi)

Our campsite after it was all cleaned up. See you again next year!

And that, my friends, is why we heart the beach!

BUSTED!

2007-11-07T09:11:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I babysat Addison, Halleigh, and Tate last night. When we got to Chris and Amber's house, they had pizza waiting for us, since it was "pizza night" for Addi's school. Amber also made a delicious salad that included pomegranate seeds (I guess that is what you call the little edible things inside a pomegranate). It was super yummy! Before they left for the night, Amber put Tate in his crib, which is located in the downstairs bedroom. The girls share a bedroom upstairs, which is painted super cute and could have been a part of my wedding. Anyway, about thirty minutes after Chris and Amber left, their sister in law came over with a friend to borrow some chairs. When they were leaving, I heard them laughing really hard and was confused why. They told me to come outside and stand on the porch. This is what I found:

BUSTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tate, who was supposed to be asleep about thirty minutes earlier, was just peeking his head out the front window. What a little stinker! It made me and Tyler laugh really hard. Of course we had to show it to Amber when she got home. What a little toot!

Inspired by Oprah

2007-11-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

WARNING: SUPER LONG POST COMING UP... PROCEED WITH CAUTION!

So, who doesn't get inspired by Oprah? I do not normally watch her show, but I do have a season pass to it on my TiVo. So, every once in a while, I will see what the topic of the show is and watch for a few minutes, only to later delete it. But, sometimes I get really into it and end up watching the whole entire show. And every time I do that, I end up crying, actually more like bawling. I know, I am seriously pathetic. But, do not even act like you have never cried watching an episode of this woman...

Anyway, on Monday's show, it was the Great American Haircut. Oprah had five celebrity hairstylists cut and style one hundred people's hair in forty-eight hours. Here are just some of the amazing makeovers that were featured on the show:

This is Eric, who hadn't shaved or cut his hair in three years.
This is Daphne. She is an English teacher, who lost two hundred pounds five years ago and has managed to keep it off since. I love her hair color in the after picture. I also love the sweet tat on her upper chest.

This is Rolanda. Don't you think her hair makeover made her look about twenty years younger? Crazy what a little hair color can do for your age.

This is Carol, who hasn't cut her hair since 1974. She was way overdue for a little chop-chop. They said they could take twenty years off her look with cutting her hair, not to mention more than twenty inches. What a HUGE change. Holy moly! And her hair is still fairly long.

Hillary Swank was on right at the beginning because she had been growing her hair out for six months, knowing that she wanted to cut it to donate to charity. She gave the following stats about women cancer patients:

** one in three women will be diagnosed with a form of cancer in her lifetime, meaning seven hundred thousand women will face diagnosis in just one year

** number one fear of sixty percent of these women is hair loss

** eight percent won't do chemo because of this fear of hair loss

After hearing these statistics, Hillary Swank thought to herself (and I thought the same exact thing),

"Here's my hair. Cut it off. Save your life."

So, she put her hair in two pigtails and had Oprah cut off eight inches of her hair. She came back at the end to show her new hairdo.

That is where I became totally and completely inspired to grow my hair out and then cut it off to donate to charity.

My niece, Addison, did the same thing here:

http://hansens2001.blogspot.com/2007/06/happy-birthday-addibug.html

Isn't is amazing and wonderful that a twenty-one year old can be inspired by Oprah Winfrey and her five year old niece?! So, I am officially growing my hair out so that hopefully in one year, it will be long enough to donate to a special charity for some woman I do not even know to have a special wig made during her difficult time, battling cancer and chemotherapy. What can Oprah inspire you to do?

How We Spent Our Halloween

2007-11-02T12:41:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I had a super exciting, scary, eventful, spooky Halloween evening that consisted of being at this place for the majority of the night...

For those of you who have not been fortunate enough to attend this fine educational institution, I will inform you that this is Chandler-Gilbert Community College, which is where Tyler and I both spent our Wednesday evening. Well, I was finished with school around 6:30pm because my teacher actually HAD a heart for those students who had children and wanted to trick-or-treat with them, which is why Tyler and I met at this fine nutritional establishment once he was off work and I was out of school for the night...

I was not such a perfect wife and chef on Halloween night as I was when I made the delicious Taco Soup... Sorry to disappoint you all. From Chick-fil-a, Tyler went to school and I went home to cuddle on the couch alone and obsess about the show that stars this stud muffin (and yes, even though I am a married woman, I can still think Brad Womack is attractive because I know you are thinking the same exact thing as you view this picture at this very moment)...

It was Wednesday night and I still had not watched "The Bachelor" from Monday night. I know, I am a slacker. So many shows to watch, so little time! And Amanda, my sister, wanted to discuss the details of said show on Tuesday, but I was not prepared to discuss the happenings of the meet-the-wacko-families episode. I LOVE this show and I LOVE JENNY! I really hope she wins, but you know how those editors are of reality shows. They make it look like one person is going to win all along, then all the pathetic viewers (such as myself) are utterly disappointed at the finale when he chooses the other girl that you hated. Then, you say you are never watching that show when the next season comes on, but once it premieres the next year, you are hooked yet again. You know what I am talking about? You know who you are! Don't make me name names! But, we know that you wish you would have been at school or watching "The Bachelor" on all hallow's eve. So, don't be jealous of how we spent our Halloween! Maybe Tyler and I should start planning our awesome costumes for next year's Halloween... NAH!

Ward Camp Out

2007-11-01T13:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, you are reading that right. Your eyes are not deceiving you. I, Amelia Johnson, went camping with Tyler for our ward camp out a few weeks ago. I know it is shocking news. It took A LOT of convincing, but we actually had lots of fun and got to know a few families in the ward better. But, don't you dare think that I am going to become an amazing mountain woman camper because I assure you I am not. I can handle the beach camping in California with Tyler's family and a camping trip every once in a while. But, I would not call myself a camper EVER, NEVER EVER! Thanks to my mother, I do not have a camping bone in my body. When I was supposed to go to Girl's Camp for the 4th year hike, I took a summer school class to get out of having to go. That is how much I hate camping. But, I knew when I married Tyler that I was going to have to branch out and be a camping woman every now and again. So, I was a good sport and went on the ward camp out with him, instead of making him go by himself, which he probably would have done. Tyler made everything perfect and comfortable for me since he knows camping is not my favorite thing. All in all, we had a pretty fun time and got to be out of the heat for less than 24 hours. So, enjoy the lovely pictures of a little place outside Payson called Flowing Springs.

Hanging at the Nichols' camping spot

Playing with the Nichols' super cute baby boy, Ethan, and trying to keep warm

More of the campfire scene with the Poll's, Johnson's (our next door neighbors and one of the six Johnson families in the ward), and Nichols' (who live around the corner from Melanie and Jake Veater)

More of the campfire with the same people (From left to right: Amelia Poll, Justin Poll (with some small child whose name I do not know), Mariley Johnson, Mark Johnson, Jens Johnson, Yolanda Nichols, Jaxson Nichols, Steve Nichols)

Our lovely personal camping area (with me brushing my teeth on the side)

Tyler thought he was being sneaky taking pictures of me brushing my teeth (with my SoniCare electric toothbrush in the woods) in the morning, but I knew he was right there capturing my sweet teeth brushing skills...

Peek-a-boo! I see you!

Overall, the camping experience was pretty fun, I guess. Minus the fact that Tyler forgot my Nike's on our bedroom floor and all I had on were flip flops. Good thing they have a mall in Payson (a.k.a. Walmart), where I found some pretty decent shoes for $20.00. We also had to purchase two pillows at "the mall" because those were forgotten also at our house. Next time we go camping, we will be sure to bring our whole entire house with us, just to be safe!

My Bestest Friend for 15 Years... And Counting!

2007-11-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

Almost two months ago, my bestest friend since first grade got married. I was so stinkin' excited for her and Jake to finally get married. Who would have thunk in junior high that Melanie Powers and Jake Veater would end up getting married so many years later?! NOT ME. But, I am so extremely glad that they did. They are so cute and perfect together. Here are a few pictures from their special day, compliments of my professional photographer husband:

And we are especially excited because these two are now our neighbors, not next-door though. We wish! But, we convinced them to move by us and they actually did! In twenty years, we are all going to look back at the first house and first ward we lived in and have SO MANY memories. Melanie and I are so stinkin' lucky that Jake and Tyler get along so well. You would think that they have been friends for just as long as Melanie and I have been. It is awesome! I love it! I am so glad that we all get along perfectly. It's fan-freakin'-tastic! I could never ask for better friends. Love you guys! You're the best!

Your Wish Is My Command...

2007-10-31T14:28:00.000-07:00

So, because my mom has not been to my house since Tyler and I opened our wedding gifts, approximately one week after we got married, and she does not wish to come see our freakin' cute humble abode, she requested that I post a picture of my ridiculously cute kitchen chairs that I just received back from getting cute-i-fied. So, your wish is my command, madre. Here it is:

I know what you are thinking to yourself right now... "Where the heck did Amelia get those stinkin' cute chairs? I want some just like it." Well, you cannot have any just like them because they are custom made and designed by my one and only mother-in-law. Tyler and I got the table and chairs from their family friends, Elaine and Bobby Williams, as a wedding gift. They painted the table and chairs black to match our home decor, my mother-in-law had these seat cushions made at Mesa Sales, and she gave them to me as a bridal shower gift. She brought home a bunch of samples of material for me to choose from and I picked this cute design. Good choice, huh? I thought so! So, after having them for a while in our house, the backs of the chairs were not holding up so well. They were a wicker-ish back and broke easily just sitting in the chair. So, Mona (the mom-in-law) had a brilliant idea to have the backs upholstered as well, just like the seat cushions. So, she spoke with her friend at Mesa Sales and he made our chairs cuter than they were before. I didn't think it was possible. But, here is the finished product! You wish you had them! Aren't they just so dang cute?!

Yummy in my Tummy! Mmmmm!

2007-10-31T10:17:00.001-07:00

So, being the awesome wife and chef that I am, I made this delectable, delicious soup for my extremely attractive husband last night for dinner. My mom supplied me with the recipe, which I believe originated from Karen Hatch. It is so yummy and ultra simple to concoct. I call it Taco Soup. The ingredients and directions are as follows:

Ingredients:
* 3 cans of beans (pinto, kidney, white, etc.)
* 1 can corn
* 1 can green chilies
* 1 can Rotel (I prefer Extra Hot to add a little spice.)
* 1 package Ranch dressing mix
* 1 package taco seasoning
* 1 can water
* 1 pound ground beef (or more)
* 1 medium onion (I omit this ingredient.)

Directions: Purchase all ingredients listed above. Get out the can opener. Open all cans involved in difficult process. Pour content of cans into an extremely large pot.

*** WARNING: This recipe makes enough to feed an army and more. ***

Brown the ground beef, then add the onion to the ground beef. Once cooked thoroughly, add meat and onion to the large pot of soup. Let warm on stove. Add cheese, sour cream, tortilla strips, etc. to top the soup. Enjoy!

P.S. Happy Halloween! a.k.a. the most pointless holiday known to anyone over the age of 12.

I've FINALLY jumped on the bandwagon... Dang!

2007-10-30T12:01:00.000-07:00

I know... I know... I know... I always said I was not going to start a blog. But, I cannot help it! I look at everyone else's, so I figure I have to create one for everyone else to stalk. Stay tuned for super, ultra exciting events in the Johnson family.