Totally random story here...
Last Saturday, Phil and I were having breakfast at home. We glanced out our front window and notices our neighbors across the street had quite the crowd gathered in their garage around a stack of coolers. A couple of seconds later, one of them reaches into the cooler and pulls out an octopus.
Then they cut off some tentacles and threw it in a turkey fryer.
You just don't see that kind of thing everyday.
And a random fact, Elvis was a twin. His twin brother was born 35 minutes before him stillborn. You learn some amazing stuff from Vince Vaughn movies. Four Christmases is awesome for many many reasons. (especially the taboo game scene)
Love, Mrs. Janney
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Relaxing
Our laundry isn't folded.
The house needs to be vacuumed.
The bathroom could stand to be organized a bit.
I haven't done any Christmas shopping.
Or Christmas decorating.
We had sandwiches for dinner.
I haven't worked on any baby hats since Saturday.
...
But I am pretty relaxed. :)
Drinking chocolate, 16 and Pregnant, a great book that is getting really good, and my bed.
Relaxing.

Love, Mrs. Janney
The house needs to be vacuumed.
The bathroom could stand to be organized a bit.
I haven't done any Christmas shopping.
Or Christmas decorating.
We had sandwiches for dinner.
I haven't worked on any baby hats since Saturday.
...
But I am pretty relaxed. :)
Drinking chocolate, 16 and Pregnant, a great book that is getting really good, and my bed.
Relaxing.
Love, Mrs. Janney
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Livers are important! Prayers Requested
Not sure if I have mentioned this in the past, but Phil's family had quite the family emergency in the beginning of August. Pretty sure I have mentioned this. Time for an update I guess...
Phil's dad's liver started bleeding one night in August. After being rushed to the hospital and life-flighted to another hospital, we found out he has Liver Cancer (heptacellular carcinoma to be more precise). They removed about 40% of his liver to get rid of the tumor. The treatment plan has basically been to wait and see if it comes back. The liver doesn't really take chemotherapy very well so it can be more harmful than helpful sometimes.
He went back in for a MRI before Thanksgiving to see if he had any new tumors (a sign of how aggressive the cancer really is). They found another tumor, but it is a tumor he already had that they missed the first time around. The plan of action was to go and cut off the blood supply to the tumor to kill it that way. That was supposed to happen A couple weeks ago. During the procedure, they found for some reason that they couldn't totally cut off the blood supply to the tumor, so plan B was to cut off as much blood supply as possible and use some chemotherapy directly on the tumor. So that is kind of where things are. He is just trying to heal from that procedure and deal with some of the lovely side effects of chemotherapy. I don't think they are as bad as full chemotherapy like some people have to have, but it definitely isn't a walk in the park either.
We are so thankful that Phil's dad is even still alive. I mean, if things had gone even a little bit differently in August, he probably wouldn't be here anymore. It is just another reminder of how much your life can change in a matter of seconds. I honestly think Phil's brother, who died in a car accident almost 4 years ago, was up in heaven, keeping his dad safe. Not everyone may believe that but come have a conversation with my about my sister and 2 oldest nephews and you might understand why I believe in gaurdian angels.

Anyway, we are heading back there for Christmas with Phil's family. Historically, his parents and I haven't gotten along that well. I don't know why. I'm as charming as a kitten. :) I honestly wonder sometimes if it isn't a geographical miscommunication or something.
So... Here is a list of prayers I am requesting:
- For the healing of Phil's dad.
- That is procedure and the chemotherapy work together to get rid of his liver tumor.
- No more liver tumors.
- Good guidance and knowledge for the team of doctors working on Phil's dad.
- Patience and comfort for Phil's mom. Between losing one son in a car accident and the other son to me, I think she might think the worst sometimes.
- Comfort for Phil.
- And finally, patience and understanding for me.
Thank you for the prayers! I hope everyone has safe travels for the holidays!
Love, Mrs. Janney
Phil's dad's liver started bleeding one night in August. After being rushed to the hospital and life-flighted to another hospital, we found out he has Liver Cancer (heptacellular carcinoma to be more precise). They removed about 40% of his liver to get rid of the tumor. The treatment plan has basically been to wait and see if it comes back. The liver doesn't really take chemotherapy very well so it can be more harmful than helpful sometimes.
He went back in for a MRI before Thanksgiving to see if he had any new tumors (a sign of how aggressive the cancer really is). They found another tumor, but it is a tumor he already had that they missed the first time around. The plan of action was to go and cut off the blood supply to the tumor to kill it that way. That was supposed to happen A couple weeks ago. During the procedure, they found for some reason that they couldn't totally cut off the blood supply to the tumor, so plan B was to cut off as much blood supply as possible and use some chemotherapy directly on the tumor. So that is kind of where things are. He is just trying to heal from that procedure and deal with some of the lovely side effects of chemotherapy. I don't think they are as bad as full chemotherapy like some people have to have, but it definitely isn't a walk in the park either.
We are so thankful that Phil's dad is even still alive. I mean, if things had gone even a little bit differently in August, he probably wouldn't be here anymore. It is just another reminder of how much your life can change in a matter of seconds. I honestly think Phil's brother, who died in a car accident almost 4 years ago, was up in heaven, keeping his dad safe. Not everyone may believe that but come have a conversation with my about my sister and 2 oldest nephews and you might understand why I believe in gaurdian angels.
Anyway, we are heading back there for Christmas with Phil's family. Historically, his parents and I haven't gotten along that well. I don't know why. I'm as charming as a kitten. :) I honestly wonder sometimes if it isn't a geographical miscommunication or something.
So... Here is a list of prayers I am requesting:
- For the healing of Phil's dad.
- That is procedure and the chemotherapy work together to get rid of his liver tumor.
- No more liver tumors.
- Good guidance and knowledge for the team of doctors working on Phil's dad.
- Patience and comfort for Phil's mom. Between losing one son in a car accident and the other son to me, I think she might think the worst sometimes.
- Comfort for Phil.
- And finally, patience and understanding for me.
Thank you for the prayers! I hope everyone has safe travels for the holidays!
Love, Mrs. Janney
Friday, December 10, 2010
Egg Sammich
These little guys belong to my brother and they LOVE egg salad sandwiches.

Especially the little guy, David. He is a funny kid. I am actually pretty surprised either of the boys like egg salad because it isn't something I usually think of when I think of kid food. Peanut Butter and Jelly, yes. Cheetos, yes. Fish Sticks, yes. Egg Salad, no. You can ask him any day what he is having for lunch and he will say, "Egg Sammich." Even if it isn't true, it is his wishful thinking. His daycare teacher told Stephanie, David's mom, that he would eat his entire lunch everday if she sent him and egg salad sandwich. Obviously Stephanie isn't going to send him an egg salad sandwich everyday. That's a lot of eggs for a little guy.
Since Phil was going to be at the Blazer game last night and I was planning on going to the gym, I decided to make some Egg Salad so I could have a quick, non-cereal dinner when I got home. I had never made Egg Salad before, but decided to make it like Deviled Eggs and it turned out SO YUMMY! I used 6 eggs and between Phil and I, it is already gone.
I had it for dinner last night and for my lunch today. And it brought an extra smile to my face thinking of this guy...

My "Egg Sammich" was yummy. Can't wait to see these boys again. :)
Love, Mrs. Janney
Especially the little guy, David. He is a funny kid. I am actually pretty surprised either of the boys like egg salad because it isn't something I usually think of when I think of kid food. Peanut Butter and Jelly, yes. Cheetos, yes. Fish Sticks, yes. Egg Salad, no. You can ask him any day what he is having for lunch and he will say, "Egg Sammich." Even if it isn't true, it is his wishful thinking. His daycare teacher told Stephanie, David's mom, that he would eat his entire lunch everday if she sent him and egg salad sandwich. Obviously Stephanie isn't going to send him an egg salad sandwich everyday. That's a lot of eggs for a little guy.
Since Phil was going to be at the Blazer game last night and I was planning on going to the gym, I decided to make some Egg Salad so I could have a quick, non-cereal dinner when I got home. I had never made Egg Salad before, but decided to make it like Deviled Eggs and it turned out SO YUMMY! I used 6 eggs and between Phil and I, it is already gone.
I had it for dinner last night and for my lunch today. And it brought an extra smile to my face thinking of this guy...
My "Egg Sammich" was yummy. Can't wait to see these boys again. :)
Love, Mrs. Janney
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Hair Salon Harrassment
Since the holidays are rapidly approaching and because we will be in Virginia around the holidays, I decided I needed to head to the salon for a little hairstyle maintenance. There is a high liklihood that I will be meeting quite a few people from Phil's past and I want to look my best. Not to mention, I haven't had my hair done since before the wedding in May (that's seven months people), so it was definitely due.
I lucked out and my hair stylist had an opening for today so I snatched it up. The stylist works in a little shop with just a few other technicians. When my appointment started, the two other stylists were free but their appointments came in during my appointment. So there I am sitting, having a delightful conversation with my stylist about our dogs, when a women getting her hair done (we will call her Crazy Lady for the purposes of this story) starts talking about the Oregon Ducks.
Disclaimer #1:
I am usually not a huge fan of Duck fans. My days on the OSU dance team and encounters with Duck fans has left me with a bit of distain for Duck fans.
Being that I was in public and not sure about the feelings of those around me, I decided to not say anything about Crazy Lady's loud boistering about the Ducks. That is, until she mentioned that she lives in Corvallis and then began talking about how rude Beaver fans and those from Oregon State are.
Disclaimer #2:
I believe when you are discussing your Alma Mater, you have the right to be protective. I have very little problem with Duck fans who actually attended the University of Oregon because you should be proud of the school that you have put money into and from which you received an education. Because I have a bachelors and a masters from Oregon State and since my husband is getting his doctorate from Oregon State, I feel I am justified in my protection of OSU.
Once she began talking about how rude people who go/went to Oregon State are and which is the better school, blah, blah, blah, I decided to speak up. Here's how the conversation went:
Me: "Did you actually go to U of O?"
Crazy Lady: "No, but my son did."
Me: "Just so you know, I have 2 degrees from Oregon State and my husband is attends OSU."
(Without skipping a beat)
Crazy Lady: "I bet you're a Republican too."
Me: Bewildered... "Yes I am."
Crazy Lady: "I knew it! I can tell just by looking at you."
I then changed the subject and continued talking with my stylist. She continued by bashing all Republicans and blaming them (me) for the current state of the nation. Last time I checked, Crazy Lady, we have a DEMOCRAT for a president AND because of the Electoral College and the fact that I live in Oregon, my individual Republican vote has not accomplished anything since I have been able to vote. Pretty sure the Govenor, the President, both Senators, and all the Representatives from Oregon are DEMOCRATS. So absolutely NONE of the nation's current problems are my fault.
I am not sure if it is because I am wearing red today or what but apparently, I SCREAM Republican. I didn't realize it was so obvious. I tried to shove my piles of money back into my pockets but I most of forgot a few bills.
I meant to tell her before she left that I hated the environment and loved guns or something before she left, but I didn't have the opportunity. She snuck out while I was under the dryer.
The salon staff and I all had a laugh after she left. The U of O stuff wasn't such a big deal. The Republican comment was kind of strange. The whole thing made for an interesting morning at the salon.
My hair looks great. :)
Love, Mrs. Janney
I lucked out and my hair stylist had an opening for today so I snatched it up. The stylist works in a little shop with just a few other technicians. When my appointment started, the two other stylists were free but their appointments came in during my appointment. So there I am sitting, having a delightful conversation with my stylist about our dogs, when a women getting her hair done (we will call her Crazy Lady for the purposes of this story) starts talking about the Oregon Ducks.
Disclaimer #1:
I am usually not a huge fan of Duck fans. My days on the OSU dance team and encounters with Duck fans has left me with a bit of distain for Duck fans.
Being that I was in public and not sure about the feelings of those around me, I decided to not say anything about Crazy Lady's loud boistering about the Ducks. That is, until she mentioned that she lives in Corvallis and then began talking about how rude Beaver fans and those from Oregon State are.
Disclaimer #2:
I believe when you are discussing your Alma Mater, you have the right to be protective. I have very little problem with Duck fans who actually attended the University of Oregon because you should be proud of the school that you have put money into and from which you received an education. Because I have a bachelors and a masters from Oregon State and since my husband is getting his doctorate from Oregon State, I feel I am justified in my protection of OSU.
Once she began talking about how rude people who go/went to Oregon State are and which is the better school, blah, blah, blah, I decided to speak up. Here's how the conversation went:
Me: "Did you actually go to U of O?"
Crazy Lady: "No, but my son did."
Me: "Just so you know, I have 2 degrees from Oregon State and my husband is attends OSU."
(Without skipping a beat)
Crazy Lady: "I bet you're a Republican too."
Me: Bewildered... "Yes I am."
Crazy Lady: "I knew it! I can tell just by looking at you."
I then changed the subject and continued talking with my stylist. She continued by bashing all Republicans and blaming them (me) for the current state of the nation. Last time I checked, Crazy Lady, we have a DEMOCRAT for a president AND because of the Electoral College and the fact that I live in Oregon, my individual Republican vote has not accomplished anything since I have been able to vote. Pretty sure the Govenor, the President, both Senators, and all the Representatives from Oregon are DEMOCRATS. So absolutely NONE of the nation's current problems are my fault.
I am not sure if it is because I am wearing red today or what but apparently, I SCREAM Republican. I didn't realize it was so obvious. I tried to shove my piles of money back into my pockets but I most of forgot a few bills.
I meant to tell her before she left that I hated the environment and loved guns or something before she left, but I didn't have the opportunity. She snuck out while I was under the dryer.
The salon staff and I all had a laugh after she left. The U of O stuff wasn't such a big deal. The Republican comment was kind of strange. The whole thing made for an interesting morning at the salon.
My hair looks great. :)
Love, Mrs. Janney
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Family Recipes
I just realized tonight that I now know how to make recipes from both of Phil's grandmothers!
I can make deviled eggs the way his Grandma Janney made them. I learned from his Aunt Betty. Phil tells me they are pretty dang good. I have only made them twice but I plan to make them for our office Christmas potlucks.
Over Thanksgiving I learned how to make Coconut Cake the way Phil's Grandma Bloodworth used to make it. Phil's Uncle Van showed me (in actuality I stood in the kitchen and asked Uncle Van a ton of questions to learn how to make it. He obliged and didn't seem annoyed by me which is good). It was SO GOOD and I don't even really like dried coconut but I loved the cake. I am going to make it for my family's Christmas celebration.
I think this should earn me awesome wife points. And it is pretty much the only Southern cooking I can say I know how to do.
And I have to just put it out there... I can't tell you how to make either recipe. Family secret. ;)
Love, Mrs. Janney
I can make deviled eggs the way his Grandma Janney made them. I learned from his Aunt Betty. Phil tells me they are pretty dang good. I have only made them twice but I plan to make them for our office Christmas potlucks.
Over Thanksgiving I learned how to make Coconut Cake the way Phil's Grandma Bloodworth used to make it. Phil's Uncle Van showed me (in actuality I stood in the kitchen and asked Uncle Van a ton of questions to learn how to make it. He obliged and didn't seem annoyed by me which is good). It was SO GOOD and I don't even really like dried coconut but I loved the cake. I am going to make it for my family's Christmas celebration.
I think this should earn me awesome wife points. And it is pretty much the only Southern cooking I can say I know how to do.
And I have to just put it out there... I can't tell you how to make either recipe. Family secret. ;)
Love, Mrs. Janney
Monday, December 6, 2010
Semi-anniversary
Yesterday was our semi-anniversary. It totally DOES feel like we have been married 6 months, but in a good way. :). I have such a wonderful husband he totally gets me. We have had so much happen this year, it is nuts. December will probably also be a hectic month so we are hoping for a calm 2011.
We spent the evening helping to decorate my parents Christmas tree (since I am not putting one up this year), watching "It's a Wonderful Life," and drinking hot cider. It was great.
Then I came home and my migraine came back which kind of put a damper on most of my day today. Thankfully, the migraine subsided and I had an awesome evening with the husband: dinner, movies, and making hats for babies. :)
The hat count is now up to 10! I am so excited. And I heard from a friend who is a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit that they definitely use the hats which just motivated me even more to make them (Thank you Jessica!). Here are the latest additions:




This last hat is probably my favorite. I think it is too big for a preemie. And the craftsmanship isn't very good. There are definitely some areas that need work. But this was the hardest hat i have done so far. You had to count the entire time and it turns out I kind of suck at counting while doing something else (i.e. crocheting). But still... I think I will be making more of those.
I have a feeling tomorrow will be a super productive day at work. :) I feel good about it.
Good Night!
Love, Mrs. Janney
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
We spent the evening helping to decorate my parents Christmas tree (since I am not putting one up this year), watching "It's a Wonderful Life," and drinking hot cider. It was great.
Then I came home and my migraine came back which kind of put a damper on most of my day today. Thankfully, the migraine subsided and I had an awesome evening with the husband: dinner, movies, and making hats for babies. :)
The hat count is now up to 10! I am so excited. And I heard from a friend who is a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit that they definitely use the hats which just motivated me even more to make them (Thank you Jessica!). Here are the latest additions:
This last hat is probably my favorite. I think it is too big for a preemie. And the craftsmanship isn't very good. There are definitely some areas that need work. But this was the hardest hat i have done so far. You had to count the entire time and it turns out I kind of suck at counting while doing something else (i.e. crocheting). But still... I think I will be making more of those.
I have a feeling tomorrow will be a super productive day at work. :) I feel good about it.
Good Night!
Love, Mrs. Janney
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
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