A dad named Josh

Come Run (or walk) With Me!!

2011-10-04T20:37:00.001-06:00

Something EXCITING is happening this Saturday, October 8th. Click on this link http://www.bluebellcornmaze.com/ to get the details quick or you can read through my rambling post below. :)

Kristin the friend here. I know, I know it has been forever since there was a post or tiny bit of an update. That is part not having any fundraisers to share, part my own neglect, and part respect for Josh and Kristen. I don't really think it's even possible for Kristen to make writing updates a priority right now. The Baumgartens continue forward in their struggles and always with an attitude I know I personally could not possess if the tables were turned. Their beautiful family continues on and that does not mean things have been easy or getting easier. I wouldn't say that at all but no matter what they move forward as a strong and loving family unit. Sorry none of that provides any kind of actual update. The next time I talk with Kristen I'll ask about an update for this blog and if there is any update she wants shared. But until then I have something I hope you'll do with me....

Come to the Bluebell Corn Maze this Saturday, October 8th and have a great time. So the amazing family who owns the Bluebell Corn Maze decided to start an annual 5K benefit run (this is the first year) and at the last minute has organized what I know will be an amazing 5K run/walk. I've done the 5K thing before and I KNOW this will trump running the streets of Vernal. I mean we'll be running through fields, around gorgeous old barns, and around the corn maze! I think it sounds one of a kind and I can't wait. Obviously I should have posted about this ages ago. I'm so sorry!! But it is not too late for you to join the fun with me. The registration is $15. All of that amount will go to the Baumgartens for medical expenses and you'll get a t-shirt and ticket to the corn maze!!! There is all kinds of fun things going on there from the pumpkins, hay bales, goodies, and obviously the maze.

Okay who is with me??? This will be a blast for you're whole family whether you participate in the 5k or not. Click on this link http://www.bluebellcornmaze.com/ for registration, directions, and more details.

On my mind...

2011-08-04T21:10:00.000-06:00

New blog post about the 5K... click here

JULY 30th!! Amazing Raffle Items!! (posted by Kristin the friend)

2011-07-24T16:46:00.006-06:00

Derby for Donations is coming up this weekend!

$1 = 1 ticket

$5 = 6 tickets

Buy tickets NOW at Subway in Vernal

until July 30th when tickets will be

for sale at the fair booth 9am-3pm.

Derby for Donations Raffle Items:

Signed Jazz Basketball

Al Jefferson Jersey

Signed CJ Miles Picture

Signed Ronnie Price Picture

Signed Al Jefferson Picture

Remember the AMAZING quilt donated by Helen

Smith last year and raffled at the 2010 fair??

This year she made 2 and

they are GORGEOUS!

Thank you Helen!!!

Professional made quilt for girl, size 44" x 52"

Professional made quilt for boy, size 44" x 52"

Nicole Smith (Helen Smith's daughter-in-law) also

wanted to help. These women have HUGE hearts!

She owns a jewely business Darling Gems and

donated this handcrafted necklace, earrings set.

Look up Darling Gems on facebook!

Thank you Nicole for caring about people

you've never met.

It is a Turquoise Jasper necklace with a hand

wired pendant, beads and clasp

Matching Earrings!

GORGEOUS! Look Nicole up on

Facebook! "Darling Gems"

Drawing will be held July 30th at 6:00pm

during the Derby as part of the

fair at Western Park.

Buy some tickets!!

All $$ will go to the Baumgarten and

Parslow families of Vernal.

Do not need to be present to win.

Questions email kristinsbaldwin@gmail.com

Life is an Adventure: Helping and Healing

2011-07-22T02:18:00.000-06:00

I know that I said I wouldn't be posting on this blog anymore, but this is Kristen Baumgarten. The Kristen married to the Josh that this blog was created for. I wanted to share a new blog that I started in memory of a friend who lost his battle with cancer two years ago. There is a scholarship benefit 5K run/walk being held in his honor.

Just to spread the word: I started a new blog: click here: Life is an Adventure. Check it out and you won't be disappointed. (Especially if you have been affected by cancer in one way or another.)

This is what I posted:

I am starting this blog in honor of my good friend Josh Graham. I want to promote a 5K run/walk in his honor. He was my bishop, my boss and most importantly a friend (like an older brother).

I looked up to the advice he was always willing to give and inspired by is unwavering faith and positive outlook on life. I admired the way he spoke of his sweet wife and children. I admired his ambition and perseverance.

(By the way, just as some little fun facst: his oldest son, Keaton has turned into more than just his father's son. It makes me feel nostalgic to watch Keaton's personality, features, and passion for life. Christian carries his moral and sense of righteousness that he so gently teaches my own sons, and Celesta carries her father's love for the Lord. Lizzy, well, they don't get much cuter than that and that sweet two-year-old knows that her daddy is with Jesus. What an amazing knowledge for such a young baby. It says a lot about their mother, right?)

Even after a complicated cancer diagnosis, he was willing to offer his time and talents to the Lord as a bishop. His time was relatively short but had a huge impact on the members of the Vernal 9^th Ward. He gave his every energy to the Church and magnified his calling.

This man was outstanding in the community as he worked as the director for the Can Do Crew teaching and training those with special needs to develop the skills they need in order to find opportunities to contribute and work in the community. Two years after his passing, the members of the crew still love Josh and affectionately refer to him as “Boss.” They watch down the street where his sweet family lives to look for his truck and to just remember and hold on to the relationships they had developed with him.

His motto as he began his journey with cancer was “Life is an Adventure.”

That passion and spirit is being spread to others through scholarship opportunities offered in the “Life is an Adventure 5K run/walk.”

This year is the second annual event and will be held at a larger scale with sponsors and the Utah State University Extension here in the basin to enable new adventures to those just embarking on them.

The not-for-profit event is being held in Josh’s memory during the month of his birthday. The event last year was healing and inspiring to say the least.

To the many of you who have experienced the devastating diagnosis of cancer through a family member or friend, I promise that this event is an opportunity to turn a challenge into a blessing. It is an event for the whole family that gives back to the community in a way that is unique from other events.

The preceding words are not in vain. They are from personal experience, and I want to reiterate with all sincerity that I know Josh is watching over and pleased with what is being done in his honor. He truly believed that our lives were each their own adventure and that we should take whatever came our way and face it head on with the attitude that it was just that: an adventure. A new opportunity to learn and grow and experience something new in life: something to draw us closer to our friends, family and Heavenly Father.

This year the event is much more ambitious than last year, and we plan to start a committee to help with the particulars. If you are interested in helping in any way, please contact me at jbaumgarten@ubtanet.com.

So many of you have asked what you can do for us in our particular situation. (Which I hope you don't take in the wrong way, I am certainly not trying to exploit our own trials, only trying to express my sincerity.) Right now, this is my passion. This is what I want help with. I want this event to be successful to help someone new embrace life’s adventure through education.

Life really is and adventure.

Helping.

Healing.

P.S. You can register for the event at:

http://www.active.com/page/event_details.htm?event_id=1957691

Subway Uintah County Fair Events and Raffle!

2011-07-18T12:07:00.003-06:00

has teamed up with the

Uintah County Fair & the Utah Jazz to bring you the

Jazz Bear and Jazz Dancers

Subway's 1st annual

"Big Foot Eating Contest"

Uintah County Fair

July 30th, 1:00 pm

Western Park Amphitheater

Visit http://www.uintahcountyfair.com/food.php

to see official rules and regulations.

Come get up close and personal with the Jazz Bear and Dancers

for a photo and signature session.

Uintah County Fair Derby

July 30th, 6:00 pm

Western Park Arena

Come watch the Derby and the

"Beat the Bear Race"

The Bear will be handing out the prizes for the

"Subway Derby for Donations" Raffle!!

MORE DETAILS COMING SOON

on this raffle to benefit the Baumgartens

and Parslow families of Vernal.

- Posted by Kristin the friend

Quilt Winner and Successful Rodeo Weekend Fundraising

2011-07-11T16:37:00.000-06:00

Kristin the friend posting. :)

Mary Hatch Gata of Vernal was the lucky winner of this beautiful quilt raffled as part of the booth for the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo. Isn't it gorgeous!! Congrats to Mary and her family. :)

There were many other quilts, items, and baked goods also sold and raffled as part of this fundraiser. I want to say THANK YOU to all the amazing people in Josh and Kristen's ward who organized, participated in and executed such an amazing fundraiser. What wonderful people we have here in Vernal!! If I receive any other pictures from the event I'll be sure to post them.

Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo Booth July 6 - 9th

2011-06-16T08:12:00.001-06:00

Kristin (the friend) here sharing fundraising info on behalf of the Baumgarten's friend Kassi Luck.

If you've never been to Vernal during Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo you are missing out!! Come this year and I hope to see you there. :) http://www.vernalrodeo.com/

WHAT: Fundraising booth during the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo

WHEN: July 6 - 9th

WHERE: Booth on the County's lawn, 150 East Highway 40

CONTACT: Kassi Luck 435-790-3111, kassi_ray@yahoo.com or leave a comment on here with your contact information

HOW YOU CAN HELP: There are a few ways:
(1). We need lots of delicious goodies to sell as "Bake Sale" items. Please sign up to donate something!!
(2). Any items(blankets, crafts, etc) donated can be sold/auctioned/raffled at the booth.
(3). We still need volunteers to help run the booth. Kassi has a sign up sheet so contact her.
(4). And of course it would be wonderful to have any and everyone visit the booth to show your support and get a few goodies!!

Thanks to the Amazing Price for Life Foundation

2011-06-15T14:41:00.001-06:00

I(Kristin the friend) attended the Restless Heart concert last Thursday night and learned about an amazing foundation set up here in Vernal called the Price for Life Foundation.

This foundation was set up just recently by the family of Dale Price who lost his battle to cancer this year. In his memory a charity golf tournament was held last Thursday June 9th at the Dinaland Golf Course. They generously chose the Baumgartens as a recipient of the money raised during the golf tournament. The Price family plan to make this an annual event to benefit other local families suffering from cancer. Thank you does not say enough to this loving and oustanding family. I am humbled and amazed by their example. Thank you Price family!

Donations were also received during the Restless Heart concert that night and Restless Heart committed a portion of their sales that night to Josh's family as well. The music and show was beautiful and I'm so glad my husband made me go. :)

Thanks to everyone who participated and showed their support during these events. I wish I knew more to share about these amazing events and the generousity of those involved. Again I say thank you and I pray you are abundantly blessed for all you do and continue to do for those affected by cancer.

Eliza

2011-05-19T09:04:00.002-06:00

The day that Eliza was born Kristin, the friend, and I(Sha) went up to the hospital to see the little angel. I almost felt like I was intruding, it felt like sacred ground. Every birth feels that way to me. Babies are so newly sent from our Father's arms and the veil is thin. This was different. Josh had had surgery just a few weeks before. He was sick and seemed so fragile. The uncertainty of his diagnosis and treatment was scary, making their emotions fragile as well. As I walked into the room, I felt love. When I looked at baby Eliza and held her I fell in love with her too, as was clearly written on Kristen, Josh and Grammy's faces already. As Kristen held her I saw peace. As Josh held her I saw joy. That is what Eliza has brought, love, peace, and joy.

Even though this year has been one of difficulty and trial, there has been a bright ray of sunshine in the Baumgarten's daily lives-Eliza! (Not to say that the boys haven't been also, but this post is about her) As Kristen was getting ready to have Eliza I asked her if she was excited. She said that she was excited for her to come but thought that the timing was way off and wished she could have her without all the chaos and uncertainty of Josh's diagnosis and treatment. I remember thinking the same thing and my heart broke for them.

But now, at least for me, and I think Kristen would also agree, the Lord's timing of bringing Eliza was perfect. Crazy to think that He would have known huh?;) This little girl has brought so much love, peace, and pure joy into her family's life and those around her. I have been privileged to witness the special bond that she has with each member of her family. When she is around they light up and love eminates into the room. It is precious to say the least.

A week ago we celebrated Eliza's first birthday. Again, I felt privileged to be there, to capture it, to witness the love that she brings and that all have for her.

Many thanks!!

2011-05-18T11:19:00.000-06:00

Kristin (the friend) here. I've had lots of people tell me they had a great time at the Creative Trends fundraiser last Monday and say "thanks" to me which is absolutely misdirected. The only thing I contributed was sharing the information on facebook and on this blog. The THANKS goes to many people but most of all Lindsey Hackford, her mother, grandmother and family for countless hours planning and executing the raffle, bake sale, cutathon, and getting the word out to make the fundraiser a success. I know a little bit about the work that goes into something like this so THANK YOU!!

The ladies at Creative Trends also put in hours of energy, support in planning, and giving hair cuts all day on Monday.

Max and the crew at BBQ'd for the DELICIOUS pulled pork sandwiches, chips, and drinks. Many local businesses and community members donated amazing items for the raffle and the list goes on. I am not surprised at the generousity of all these people because that is simply the kind of people that they are. I AM amazed however at their humility and insistance that it was no big deal and not a sacrifice even though I know many hours were given. I am thankful for these many examples of service and Christlike love who insist that any time, energy, or donation is a privelage to give. This is all about showing the Baumgarten family love and support. Thank you to everyone who has offered that in any way.

To finish up I wanted to include this message from Kristen Baumgarten's parents:

"Thank you again to all who contributed or in any way had anything to do with the "Cut a Thon" and all of the other fund raisers. Thankyou!!! And may God bless you always with what each of you need for your Christlike efforts on behalf of our kids. YOu are in our prayers! Prayers of gratitude! (SEems we say prayers of gratitude a lot.... It feels good!)thank you..... Bill and Laurie Kremin"

AWESOME items being raffled this Monday, May 16th!! Plus, come for lunch and bake sale. Mmmmmm.

2011-05-13T17:59:00.004-06:00

Lindsey Hackford, her mom GayLynne Case, the ladies at Creative Trends, and many more have been hard at work getting ready for the Fundraiser coming up this Monday. CLICK HERE for all the details. Now that I've seen the AMAZING items being raffled(pictured below) I am getting extra excited. Please come have a yummy lunch(you have to eat anyways!), and check it all out Monday, May 16th in the Kmart plaza in Vernal, outside Creative Trends. The pics below(taken with my phone) are just some of the things being raffled. I'll list what I do not have pictured at the bottom.

$1 per ticket or $10 for 11 tickets

Max from BBQd will be selling lunch from 11am - 1pm,

donating all profit to the fundraiser.

Cookies, Cinnamon Rolls, Goodies Galore!

We need more sign ups for the Bake Sale! Can you bring something?

Call GayLynne Case 435-789-6083 or 435-219-3067

------------------------------------------------

Raffle Items:

*Queen size quilt donated by Melanie Watts/Creative Trends

*Childrens Books Basket including 25 brand new children's books(Scholastic favorites like "If you give a mouse a cookie") donated by Amanda Redden

*Sun Hat donated by Bitter Creek Books

*Bear Figurine

*Blue Purse donated by What a Girl Wants

*Jewelry(in the small white box w/ purple ribbon) donated by Bridal Affairs

*Car Seat Cover(orange, green, and blue polkadots) donated by Nickole Hansen

*Scentsy Warmer and Scents donated by Shawna Laroque

*Dinosaur Gift Basket donated by Dinosaur Gift Shop

*Blue Purse(same as shown above) donated by What a Girl Wants

*Greatest Glory Vinyl Sign donated by Lime Leaf Vinyl

*Bird Wall Decor

*White and Black Purse donated by Wonderland Purses and Pearls

*Holiday Decor

*2 Adarondak Chairs donated by Lowes (picture below not the actual chairs and not necessarily the same style. Just an example from Lowes.com)

Also being raffled:

*2 Quilts donated by Kari and Kami Rousch

*2 Large Candy Baskets donated by Little Sweet Pea

*Gift Certificate and Basket donated by Merle Norman/Senses

*$100 Walmart Gift Certificate

*Gift Certificate to Amore Italian Restaurant

*Patio Lantern donated by Duke Holmes

*Product Basket donated by Creative Trends

*Creative Trends Gift Certificates

*Fabric Frenzy Gift Certificate

*Paint Your Heart Out Gift Certificate

*2 Full Body Streamline Massage Gift Certificates

*Maurices Gift Basket

------------------------------------------------------------

If I've left out or messed up any info let me know!

HOPE TO SEE EVERYONE THERE!!

A little help to stop any confusion in its tracks

2011-05-13T16:34:00.003-06:00

Kristin "the friend" Baldwin here. :) The simularity between my name and Kristen Baumgartens name has caused some confusion. I've been the author of every single post about fundraisers on this blog. (Link HERE to a post I wrote about approaching Josh and Kristen about fundraising in the beginning.) Because my name is also Kristin and my last name starts with a B there have been some readers who assumed or thought Kristen and Josh were posting about fundraisers. Not the case, ever. It has always been me posting but I'd like to do something to alleviate confusion so I need your help. What variation of my name could I use that would be perfectly clear? I would post a picture but I've had so many people comment that I look like Kristen or actually think that I am Kristen Baumgarten that that may be a lost cause as well not to mention I don't have any current pictures of myself really....oh wait I do! I'll add it to this post just for kicks. Flashing my face around isn't my idea of fun but anything to stop the madness! I don't think we, Kristen and I, look enough alike to be mistaken as sisters or especially as each other but I swear it has happened more times than I can remember! Also, isn't my little girl adorable?!?

Anyway, for the first time in my life I am wishing I had a middle name to go by! Anyone want to dub me a special nickname for when I post to this blog that NOONE could be confused by?? Seriously. Give me some ideas and I'll start going by it when posting on here. I don't really have any nicknames set in place unless you count Porky(which traumatized me for life as a 6th grader), Montana(simply because that is where I am from), and Scof(a short version of my maiden name). Any better ideas?? I'd rather not have to relive my adolecence but I wouldn't fault anyone for taking advantage of the easy Porky jab. Just know I've been doing pushups and will gladly use my new superhuman strength to retaliate. ;)

Dear Anonymous

2011-05-13T11:00:00.000-06:00

*I (Kristen Baumgarten) am posting this here as well as my personal blog for reasons that are obvious to anyone who continues to read...*

Dear Anonymous Commenter:

Thank you for your honesty and candor. I realize the opinions you expressed are real and I honestly can see your point of view. You are clearly a regular reader of this blog and so you know that I do not hold back a lot of what I am thinking and/or feeling. Please allow me to explain my point of view with the same candor as you shared yours. (Also be assured that this will be the last you hear of this from me. I will not discuss this with others as I am not sure who you are, and you are clearly someone who knows me well).

To start, I would like to apologize to you and anyone who may share your feelings that you feel my blog has been an attempt to seek pity, sympathy or financial help. It has certainly not been meant to be so. I certainly do not remember having ever posted asking for someone to send me money, to feel sorry for me or to dwell on our family’s circumstance.

I started my blog in 2007 as a way to share stories and pictures with family members who are miles away and may be interested in the on-goings of our household. As of late, (as in the last year or so) it has turned into more of an emotional outlet where I have been able to sort through my feelings and therefore have used it as a source of healing.

Since I am not convinced that my initial reasoning for starting my blog even exist, I will be changing this blog to a private status for my eyes only. I still find writing to be therapeutic and I choose to continue to use my blog as an online journal. I realize that you know my family and details of our circumstances and so I will not attempt to sort through who may or may not be offended by my emotional posts. I will leave this post for a week or so before I change the status as to give you a chance to find and read this.

Please be assured of these three things. (I also posted these on Facebook in case you check that more often than Blogger):

#1 we have repeatedly been humbled and in awe at the way family, friends, and community have reached out to us in the last year. It has been a humbling experience and hasn't necessarily been easy to be on the receiving end of service and financial support.
#2 we've never asked for or solicited any of the fundraising efforts. Those who have taken the initiative to organize a fundraiser in our behalf humble us. Those who have quietly supported us outside fundraising events humble us. We hope all those who have done either, know that their efforts are greatly appreciated. I understand how it may be confusing considering many blogs concerning fundraising have been posted on the dadnamedjosh blog by one of my dearest friends who shares the same name as I. Her profile/username happens to be kristin and mine is joshandkristen. Our individual posts show our profile/usernames respectively. To avoid further confusion, I will no longer post to the dadnamedjosh blog.
#3 to our knowledge we haven't "done" anything to cause Josh's GBM cancer or my Multiple Sclerosis. We have each actually been diagnosed and see specialists at the University of Utah and Huntsman Cancer Institute. We are not perfect and while our diseases may be punishment, I hope that they have been given to us as a chance for us to draw closer to our Savior.

We have not used our trials as an excuse to use the good will of others. With the exception of my immediate family and closest friends, I have tried to not ask for help in any respect. It is hard enough to accept help when it is offered. It is very hard to recognize that I cannot do it all on my own, but let me be the first to admit that I know I cannot.

Please accept my sincere apologies for what appears to be an abuse of the good nature and kindness of others. I recognize that we have used more than our quota of goodwill and will keep that in mind as this time during our health trials continues.

Sincerely,

Kristen

To anyone who may be concerned by this letter:

I am really ok. I have had the night to sleep on this information and I realize that it’s ok. We went to the temple last night and I was left with the peace found there before I read the comment that led to this post. This morning, I have found comfort in the words of a song by Laura Story called “Blessings”

“We pray for blessings. We pray for peace; comfort for family, protection while we sleep. We pray for healing, for prosperity. We pray for your mighty hand to ease our suffering. All the while you hear each spoken need, yet love us way too much to give us lesser things. What if your blessings come through raindrops? What if your healing comes through tears? What if a thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know you’re near. What if trials of this life are your mercies in disguise?... When friends betray us, when darkness seems to win we know, the pain reminds this heart that this is not, this is not our home…. What if my greatest disappointments or the aching of this life is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy? What if trials of this life the rain, the storms, the hardest nights, are your mercies in disguise?”

Thank you!!

2011-04-29T13:33:00.011-06:00

Kristin "the friend" Baldwin here.

I wanted to offer a big thanks to EVERYONE who helped and contributed to this fundraiser. I especially want to give a shout out to Gina McCurdy(one of the busiest people I've met) for organizing and executing it. I am excited to get my pizza kits and even more excited to drool over my friend's order that included cookies. Mmmmmmmmm.

CutAThon/Raffle and BBQ on May 16th

2011-04-04T11:52:00.001-06:00

WHAT: CutAThon/Raffle and BBQ!
WHERE: Creative Trends Salon in the Kmart shopping center
WHEN: May 16th
CONTACT: Lindsey Hackford (435)790-7549, (435)790-7549 or find her on facebook
DETAILS: Max from BBQ'd will be there selling his yummy grub! mmmmmmm! There will be a RAFFLE and BAKE SALE. RAFFLE TICKETS FOR SALE AT CREATIVE TRENDS SALON, OR BY CALLING LINDSEY HACKFORD $1 A PIECE OR 11 FOR $10!!
ALL TO BENEFIT THE BAUMGARTENS :)
HOW TO HELP: DONATE items to raffle, BAKE yummy treats to sell, COME get a cut, some lunch, goodies, ENTER the raffle, and SPREAD the word. :)

Being those hands

2011-03-30T00:22:00.005-06:00

(This is Kristin Baldwin posting. Since Kristen and I share the same first name it gets a little confusing so up front I thought I'd clarify :)

I started this post over a month ago and it finally feels like the right time to post it and ask for your helping hands again. A year ago, almost to the day, the Baumgartens received the news that Josh's MRI showed a brain tumor. That day began a new season of life for Josh, for Kristen, for Kimball, for McKay, and for Benson; the season of radiation, chemo, prayers, and cherishing moments. Sweet baby Eliza only knows this season of life. Just the other day Kristen was telling me how Eliza is right at home at the Huntsmen Center and loves her visits from the nurses and Doctors who have watched her grow over the last 10 months. I'd better stop writing about those kids because I love them like family and this last year those sweet boys had too much reality mixed in with their precious boyhood.

This blog was set up by friends because of Josh's diagnosis of brain cancer, glioblastoma multiforme. But I am posting today about Josh's beautiful wife Kristen.

Kristen has MS. Can you believe it? Read that again. Kristen was recently diagnosed with M.S., Mulitple Sclerosis [a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system (CNS), which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision. Today, new treatments and advances in research are giving new hope to people affected by the disease.] (Click HERE to link to Kristen's post about her diagnosis)

So M.S. Really?!? REALLY!?! The emphasis on REALLY!?! is not so much meant to be negative as much as I'm being real. If you know Josh and Kristen or have only just learned about them on this blog then you know they are the best of people, the best that I know of. For them both to be diagnosed with life debilitating diseases with no known cure is in my book unbelievable. Do I really need to explain why even more than before they could use your helping hands?

Here is what I am asking. Think about how you could help. Think about who you know who are in a position to help. Are you in a position now or will you be in the next few months to put together and execute some kind of fundraiser? A bake sale, a garage sale, a lemonade stand? It could be anything and anytime. Let your kids brain storm and do it. They will get so much more out of it than whatever time and effort put in. Dollars and cents add up. Just imagine how the dollars and cents in bills would add up with one parent fighting for life with cancer treatment and one parent taking on a lifetime of MS treatment. Any idea you have and any amount donated WILL help. Go for it!

Isn't it amazing that in the last ten months this blog has had nearly 16,000 visitors? Of course many of those are the same loving friends and family eager to check up on Josh and his beautiful family on a regular basis. Isn't it also amazing that hundreds of people, from strangers to the Baumgarten family to their closest family and friends, came together in so many fundraising efforts during a recession and challenging financial time in the Uintah Basin to help with Josh's treatment costs? If you have followed this blog I know you've been touched as I have time and time again as Kristen and Josh have expressed their faith in Jesus Christ and their gratitude and awe for the love and support shown them.

Now let's be honest. If a member of your family began to experience serious health problems and was diagnosed with cancer would you be prepared financially? What if that person provided the primary income for a growing family? I can only speak for myself and I KNOW that my husband and I would be sunk. If we both needed lifelong medical treatment there is no word to describe how much more than SUNK we would be.

Here is how I feel. Josh deserves the best medical treatment available to him and more. He is getting it, for a pretty penny yes but thankfully he is getting what is available. Kristen deserves the best medical treatment available to her and more. Thankfully she is getting the best medical care currently available for MS. I have not seen what their monthly costs are for Doctor visits, treatment, prescriptions, etc and I never plan to but I would bet my very life that if we only knew our jaw would drop and I for one would probably need some air. On top of that I know that it is Kristen's hope that she'll be able to explore all natural treatment options available to her and Josh in addition to their medical care. One she mentioned was $5,000 just to have the initial consult and preliminary tests done. $5,000 just to be tested? Yikes is my first thought but can you really put a price on health, time and quality of life? Natural options are cash only as you would guess. I desperately want to get some cash in their hands so when the time is right these hopes can become the reality for both of them.

Anyone can donate using the paypal link in the upper right hand corner. It is completely safe and even if you only have a few dollars you can still use this option.

Please share this blog with your friends list on facebook, your email list, or whatever form of communication you use most. We are in a recession folks. I know exactly what that means for us average people but we can all do a little can't we?? For some that little bit might be just sharing this blog with others; an act of kindness that only takes a few minutes. And there are some people out there in a position to do a bit more than a little so help me spread the word and reach them.

The Baumgartens have never asked for any fundraising or help in this way but I know they have been the answer to the prayers of many, including myself and I would guess many of you. This is one way we can try to lighten their unimaginable burden and perhaps be the hands of God in answering their prayers.

Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of

the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Matthew 25:40

Back from vacation to massive laundry, marathon cancer appointments, and making it home

2011-03-20T19:56:00.002-06:00

We flew back from California last Sunday, and after some debating decided to send the boys home with my parents since Josh had appointments starting Monday morning.
Again, no secret as to how much I LOVE laundry, and one of things that gives me anxiety about going on vacation is the fact that our family is growing and I have to do laundry EVERYDAY to keep it from getting out of control.
We came home with EIGHT loads of laundry. Count them, yes, eight loads for a six day vacation. I managed to squeeze one load into another load since there wasn't another washer close by. But, all the loads got done at the same time and I decided that in my next life, I want to have multiple washers as to be able to do massive amounts of laundry at one time. Maybe it's my lot in life to open a laundromat where I can reserve a row of washers just for me.

See? Doesn't that look like heaven? The chance to get it all done at the same time?

Monday while Eliza and I were waiting for Josh to get his lab work done, we met the most awesome people. One man with colon cancer and mets all over was positive about his Stage IV cancer, and ironically his F-bomb cancer shirt didn't offend me the way the F word usually does. In fact, as bad as it sounds, it was relatable, and I got a kick out it. I told him and we got talking. He is awesome. Dov, you inspired me. After meeting you, I will never be the same. I met a guy, Max, with melanoma who is hopeful at the opportunity to be in remission, two more women, one who is a cancer survivor and one still battling. I also met a woman who has just barely been going through all the emotion and trauma that comes initially with her husband's cancer diagnosis. I literally saw myself in her eyes. Lou, if you are reading this. You are not alone. I hope you are feeling better than you were a week ago. My heart goes out to you. I KNOW exactly how you're feeling. It isn't easy. Our hearts and prayers are with all our new friends from the Huntsman. I particularly want to share one blog from Carri, who is a cancer survivor hoping to adopt. Please check out her amazing blog!! It is called From Healing to Hope.

Here are some cutie pie picture of Eliza watching all the action and later waiting patiently at the Huntsman's infusion waiting room. Poor baby is going to think that hospital and clinic are her second home especially with all the attention she gets every time we go. They have watched her grow and when they know we are coming, there are always a handful of specific nurses that come to see her.

Watching our new friend Dov as he was talking to his mom.

Passing the time reading a book.

Monday night, Josh had an MRI and then Tuesday morning an appointment with Dr. Colman and staff. Then, that afternoon he had an infusion for the Avastin study. The appointment went well. Josh's MRI didn't show any changes which means we can chalk up another few months for stability. I am pretty sure that every time we go Dr. Cohen and Dr. Colman are more and more convinced that I am a complete nut-case, but seriously-- I can not silence my concerns. Remember how I said that I am not the quiet type? I think it embarrasses Josh, but I am not sorry for it. He is my husband, and it is our family, our children, our life, our future.

I want to live a long and happily-ever-after life with Josh. I have never noticed so much how wonderful it is to see a couple in their golden years sitting together at church or walking down the sidewalk hand-in-hand. I guess I always took it for granted, as I felt that it would inevitably be Josh and I one day. Now when I see it, I notice the sweetness and rarity (especially with divorce rates perpetually on the rise). My hope is that one day I will be able to sit in church with my aged husband, admiring his gray hair as he puts his arms around my hunched shoulders. In an effort to achieve that, I have to make sure that the doctors are aware of anything that might be relevant. If that makes me a nut-case and embarrassing: so be it. Despite all my questions, the reality was that he is still stable. And, ultimately, no change is good news.

After our long couple of days at the Huntsman we were finally able to come home. It felt so good to finally be in our own home and sleep in our own bed. As great as vacation was, I was happy to be here. Probably more-so because the laundry was all done! ;)

The Healer

2011-02-28T23:33:00.000-07:00

I keep getting asked how I feel.

Really, I feel like crap. (Hmm... I use that word often and hate it when my kids use it, so I guess I better rethink that particular part of my vocabulary. But for now, substandard just doesn't seem to deliver.)

In all honesty, I do feel a little better after three days of steroid infusions than I have felt in the last six weeks. I still have two more infusions, so hopefully things will just get better. It all started with the annoying vertigo that just wouldn't and hasn't gone away.

Several symptoms have been added to the vertigo. It was getting to the point that I felt like I was declining everyday. I still feel like a crazy person, but the steroids are helping. The numbness on the left side of my lower face is gone. And while my vision is still often blurry and peripherally double, I can at least see peripherally out of my left eye now. No more big black block. My mouth still feels like I have been to the dentist on the right side, my cheek is still a little zingy and I am not remembering things as well, but at least I am walking a little more normal. I am not stumbling as much. At least not like the day I fell down the stairs with Eliza or when I went in for another MRI and the technician asked if I had taken something before I went. Oh brother! Did the thought not occur to him that I was coming in for another MRI on my brain only two weeks after the first one? In his defense, I did run into the wall!!

After four MRI's, three blood draws (for various tests), two appointments with specialists, a lumbar puncture, and the input of five of the Huntsman Cancer Institute's tumor board neurologists, it is pretty certain that I have Multiple Sclerosis. (Here is a little information video for a quick MS 101) Fortunately, early treatment is the most successful. The treatment options are mind boggling in and of themselves, and there are so many alternative treatments to consider as well. There is help. I will be fine. I am anxious to feel a little more like myself again and not so pathetic and crazy. (Because that is really how I feel, aside from the symptoms being super annoying, I have been frustrated that I couldn't just make myself get up and live normal everyday life. I would think long and hard about whether is was worth it to get up and shower and fix my hair and then feel worse later in the day. Lame, I know. I wish I could explain it better, but really the best way I can explain it is that I have felt like, note the afore mentioned, crap.)

A huge part of my struggle has been that it feels like my kids deserve better. They deserve to have one healthy parent. One who isn't "neurologically diseased." I think the worst was after the day that the double vision in my eyes became more permanent. I had spent the majority of the day lying on the couch. Josh was putting the kids to bed and explaining that I was sick and didn't feel well. Kimball started to cry. He was really upset and worried that his dad was going to die and his mom was going to die and that there would be four kids living alone in our house and that he wasn't big enough to take care of Eliza. Not only is it sad to hear his concerns vocalized, but to know that such a heavy burden was weighing on his little seven-year-old shoulders. He shouldn't have to carry that. None of my children should.

Still, even in saying that, I am reminded of the distant feeling I had in the temple after learning about Josh's tumor. I was told that it would be hard, that it would hurt, but that ultimately... everything is in His hands and that it would be okay. Christ is the Healer. He is the one who can heal us from physical infirmity (if it is according to the Lord's will) and He can heal our aching hearts when life is hard. That is His purpose. To be our Savior.

I am going to post another song. "The Healer," was written by one of my close friend's twin sister. The CD is called, Praying for a Better Day by, Tari Van Tassell. I looked it up and you can buy a download here.

I know that I keep talking about songs and putting them up on my blog, but really... music is one of the best ways to feel the Spirit, and it has been healing to me in so many different ways. Please take the time to listen to this song. You will not be sorry. It strengthens my faith and testimony of Jesus Christ every time I hear it. In recent weeks, it has helped me to see that while a complete physical healing may not be possible, a spiritual and emotional healing is really what I need. (I spent the time to make the video myself, googly eyes and all, so... go easy on me! It was the only way I could figure out how to get the actual music on this post.)

She gave to us, and wants to give to you! Don't miss out!

2011-01-25T23:23:00.000-07:00

I have an amazing friend that has an awesome photography business. We have known each other for like a gazillion years and she has always been very talented! I love her guts!
When all of the craziness happened with Josh, she reached out to us and offered to take our family pictures and to GIVE us, yes I said GIVE us her top package. She also designed our Christmas cards for us (which were beautiful). She has just launched her new blogsite and is offering a to-good-to-be-true giveaway!!! You have to hurry to her website and check it out. You won't be disappointed. She does a great job and I get compliments on the pictures she did of my boys almost 3 years ago ALL THE TIME!! Check it out!

amyjophoto.com

I am not the quiet type

2011-01-06T22:12:00.000-07:00

I thought since I mentioned Josh's MRI was on the 4th, that I better post. I haven't had the greatest week (due to a handful of things) and I hope that won't reflect in tone of this post.
Josh's MRI was on Tuesday morning and then we met with Dr. Cohen and Dr. Coleman at the clinic later that afternoon to discuss Josh's well-being and the scans. We left the office feeling good and confident. The verdict was another stable month to chalk up to success.
Wednesday morning Josh had an infusion where we received the formal MRI report that stated change in two different areas and that they looked like disease progression. So, I went into survival mode. I started reading all the other reports to compare the wording, compare the jargon, compare the emphasis of previous scans. After finding consistencies in specific phrases and words I was able to gather what was a description of location or what was the name of a part of the brain. I understood well enough to know what the report said: They (the radiologists) believe the tumor to be growing. I was confidant that my first understanding of the report was right.
You better believe I was on the phone dialing the nurses to ask them about it. I told them:
"I am not the quiet type to just wait around for something to happen."
I told them I didn't want to be naive, that I don't want to be caught off guard, and that I always wanted to hear the absolute truth even if it was ugly.
The nurse assured me that she would have the doctor call me back. Hours passed. No phone call. I called again and left a message but then had to leave. Dr. Cohen called while I was gone. Ugh.
I called and left another message this morning before I had to take Eliza to the doctor. (Poor sick baby) While I was gone the nurse called. I called. Finally later this afternoon I heard from both Dr. Cohen and Dr. Coleman. They agree that the places the radiologist flagged has changed, but feel it is not significant enough to call it tumor progression. They said they don't use that particular series to diagnose progression, and they would just watch it at his next scan in 10 weeks. They couldn't say it was nothing, but felt Josh is "essentially stable." I am now of the opinion that stable and essentially stable have two different meanings.
So there you have it. A bunch of ambiguity and uncertainty. Conflicting reports and a not-so reassurance from the doctors. The positive side is that, at least for now, the doctors feel like it is not progressing, and that is good news.

Held

2011-01-02T23:42:00.004-07:00

This song was posted for me on Facebook by a sweet friend who I have had the privilege of knowing for about 23 years. I can't help but think of our own circumstances. And then of those whom we have met since Josh's diagnosis last year. I was heartbroken to learn that a woman who I looked to as our beacon of hope passed away, and I can't stop thinking about the family who is aching for her now. I can't stop thinking about another couple, (who are the same age as Josh and I) struggling with the same disease and yet who are coping so well, and teaching us. I can't stop thinking about my friend who I talk to EVERY day who lost her husband about 18 months ago and how she has taught me so much. How strong she is. How sometimes praying feels ambiguous, but that someone REALLY hears. How sometimes life seems so unfair, but yet we are all being held in His hands.

Meet the tumor, thank you

2010-12-29T21:08:00.004-07:00

First, I am posting a picture of what the tumor looked like in November and then maybe I'll post another one after Josh's MRI next Tuesday.

Secondly, I hope that you will indulge me in reading my Christmas letter. I tried my best to send it to everyone who has helped us, but so much of what has been done has been anonymous and, let's face it... I am not perfect and after I used up all I had ordered, I kept thinking of more people I wished I had sent them to. So... this is also a late Christmas thank you.

No duct tape and silly putty!

2010-11-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Josh went to the ENT today and he assured us that there wouldn't be any major complications from the perforated septum. Surgery, like I had read on the internet, would most likely be unsuccessful. But, they can put a shunt/splint thing there if needed. For now, he is just going to try antibiotics. I can't say enough how impressed I was, again, with this doctor. (He is the same doctor that took care of poor Benson when we went through all the crazy ear infections, tubes, mastoiditis, and then the PICC line.) He went above and beyond to make sure that we understood what was going on, how it may or may not be related to Glioblastoma, and even took an active interest in our family and our situation. So... everything is what it is. Not a big deal, in the grand scheme of things.

So, while I did dream that Josh had a hole in his nose, I guess I won't be trying to fix it the way I did in my dream: with anything I could put my hands on- including duct tape and silly putty! Ha! (Seriously, if only you all could visit my dreams.)

Josh has another round of marathon appointments on Tuesday: MRI, blood work, Dr. Coleman, infusion! Here we go again!

Perforated Septum

2010-11-16T22:54:00.002-07:00

Something new to add to my list of things that make cancer dumb (aside from the obvious):

A perforated septum. What's that? Well if you stick your finger in your nose... haha... you are doing it now, aren't you? You can feel a membrane that separates your nostrils, right?

That is your septum.

Josh no longer has one. It's just a gaping hole. He told me there was a hole. I didn't believe him. I got out the flashlight and looked in his nose. Sure enough. Big hole. Nothing separating his nostrils. Holy crap! I had to google, of course and found out that it is called a perforated septum and that it is rare but can be caused by trauma (like his surgery), cancer (which he has), or Avastin (the drug he may or may not be getting as part of a glioblastoma study).

Awesome.

The upside? He says he can breathe better. Ha!

The ironic thing? I had a dream probably a week ago that he had a hole in his nose.

Follicu-whatis?

2010-11-09T08:21:00.000-07:00

Before I get to the actual post, I just have to post these pictures of Eliza for two reasons:

1. Um, they are adorable and of course I want to share them. My friend Mindy took them and just brought me the disk the other day.

2. My camera is broken and so I honestly haven't had pictures to post. I have an AWESOME video camera (Thanks Lindsey) but haven't figured out how to upload the videos to the computer. Until recently, we didn't have a computer with enough memory to do so. I am sure it's not hard, I just need to take the time to do it. So, these pictures are to spruce up all the boring text!

So... first things first: JOSH UPDATE

Josh had another MRI on Tuesday, October 26. Dr. Coleman said that it looked nearly identical to the scan a month ago which means that his tumor is stable. He also let us know that stable is the best you can ask for. Glioblastoma is aggressive enough that those diagnosed will never be in remission. So... stable is successful. We will gratefully take it! He just finished another round of Temodar (chemotherapy) and has been officially off the Dexamethasone (steroids for swelling) for a week. So far so good. No seizures, no drastic change in coordination. He does have a random rash all over his body (arms, legs, torso). It drives him nuts. It not only itches, but is painful. We found out is called Folliculitis. It seriously looks like chicken pox. We actually wondered if it was either that or shingles. Hmm... what do ya know? Random rash that sounds made up. After reading what wikipedia has to say, I am not convinced that it is said Folliculitis, but it does say that malignancy can cause it. So... maybe it is. Dumb cancer.

That being said life is normal-ish. I continue to be impressed with a couple of families going through the same illness. When I read their blogs I realize I have a lot to work on and that I am grateful I have their examples. I've been using blogger as a journal, I just hope that I haven't made myself out to be a big whiney-pant. I feel like I should apologize to anyone who has read this blog and been annoyed by my relentless purging. Writing has proved to be very therapeutic for me, but I realize I should try harder to be more positive and focus more on my boys, my baby and our everyday lives. Please accept my apologies for past posts.

Halloween was a lot of fun because we had Joseph and Martha and their family come and visit. We had a great time visiting, playing games, and taking the kids to the pumpkin festival and trick or treating. My mom always has an awesome Halloween dinner for us. It's been the same ever since I was a little girl. Dinner in a Pumpkin!! I told the boys that is what we were having and this was the following conversation between Kimball and myself:

Kimball: "Mom, so then what is it that we are eating?"

Me: "I just told you, Dinner in a Pumpkin."

Kimball: "I know, but what is it called?"

Me: "Kimball! I said, Dinner in a Pumpkin. It's dinner cooked inside a pumpkin."

Kimball: "I just feel like you are ignoring me. I want to know what it is called."

Me: "I think you must be ignoring me. It is called din-ner in a pump-kin."

Kimball: "Mom, I am saying that I want to know what the dinner is called in a pumpkin."

Me: (after wiping egg off my face and feeling sheepish for not listening and actually hearing what it was that he was really asking) "Sorry Kimball. It's yummy rice and meat and sauce and stuff."

He was satisfied.

McKay has (until his haircut on Saturday), been sporting a new 'do. He told me one day that he thought Kimball looked good but, he "didn't look any good." I think he is a handsome little devil and told him so. The next morning he told me he wanted his hair fixed different. I obliged, and if it makes him feel more confident, why not??? I try to compliment him often and tell him how handsome I think he is or how much I like the outfit he picked out. I had NO idea whatsoever that I would be dealing with this particular kind of struggle in self confidence with THREE boys. I have to remind myself to tell him that he looks awesome, or handsome, or great... because when I look at those eyes and that smile- I see BEAUTIFUL! (That, of course, is not manly and if I slip and say it, he is quick to remind me that he CAN'T be beautiful because he is a boy.)

Benson is doing great, and with the release of Toy Story 3, we have had a bit of a break from Harry Potter visiting our house 24/7. I have to say that after almost a year of not being sure as to whether we are being graced with the presence of Harry or Benson, this week or so of sans-Harry has been strange. It's almost like I don't know what to do with myself since I am not constantly drawing scars, searching for wands or fixing glasses! It had become part of my daily routine! Ha! He still loves me to snuggle him at bedtime and wants me to sleep with him. That actually just means that he wants me to lie down next to him and tickle his back. He has also become as much a fan of Lime Ricky's as myself. He is always asking if we can go get one. It's great. It's kind of turned into "our thing."

Eliza is six months old today. Can you believe it? Because, I can't. She was rolling over so good last night. She rolled from her back to her belly and then to her back. She did it over and over and over. We have proof on video! Do you think she would do it today? Not a chance. It's just like a month ago when she rolled from her belly to her back four times in a row and then only once or twice since then. I guess she is content to just be. She is such a little cutie and smiles all the time. She is a good baby and continues to be a constant joy and comfort in our home. Night time is still a struggle, but I keep reminding myself that it goes so fast and to not wish it away. These six months have already flown by. I wish she would stay my baby for longer.

Help Me to Believe

2010-09-20T02:11:00.002-06:00

I (Kristen Baumgarten) updated our personal blog again, and decided that I would copy and past to this blog as well. There may be suggestions that I don't want to miss out on!

A new worry has plagued my mind. Well, not just one... I am also worried about GBM in the spine (once again, too much googling) but there is just one that I seriously need to address. My boys.

They are smart. They know what is going on. They understand that their dad is sick and that he has a tumor. They know that he goes to Salt Lake for medicine. They also know that sometimes people die. Ever since Josh had his first seizure (yes, he has had another since my last post) the boys keep making comments and asking questions about if their dad is dying or going to die.

How do you answer that? I have told them that he is going to be okay, but I know that isn't good enough because all three of them keep commenting. For example:

Kimball was emotional tonight. He was worried that his dad would keep having seizures and that he would die before we could go on vacation. He said, "He is our very first dad, and we don't want another dad."
On the day Josh had his second seizure (last Tuesday) McKay asked, "Is Dad going to die because Heavenly Father needs him like he needed Josh Graham?" (Josh Graham was a friend, our bishop, and my boss. We all loved Josh and miss him)
Friday after I drove Josh to work, Benson must have forgotten that we had taken Daddy to work because he was looking for him and said, "Where's Dad? Did he die?"

The truth is Josh and I both have decided that we must accept whatever the Lord's will and understand that in doing so, we will be able to find the peace and strength we need to be able to endure. Josh is better than me. I just want answers. I don't like feeling like things are up in the air. However, I KNOW that I have felt the quiet peace that comes from knowing the Lord is in charge and no matter the outcome everything will be alright.

As adults, with a life of experiences, we still struggle to understand that this life is given to us, and that we need to be okay with just letting go. So, how do you explain that to little boys? They are smart, yes. They have felt the Spirit. I know they have. I have been privileged to witness their sweet experiences. But they are still little boys. I wish that I could protect them from the harsh reality that we are facing. There are no concrete answers that we can give them. No absolutes in one direction or the other. Just that we are doing everything we can, but that ultimately it is up to Heavenly Father. Ultimately, Heavenly Father knows how their dad can best help these boys grow into righteous, stalwart, honorable men (which is something we pray for daily). Heavenly Father can work mighty miracles. He can see the big picture, and we are given so little and must extend our faith. It seems like such a hard lesson, a burden really, that doesn't seem fair to place on little boys.

So tonight, I am contemplating the best way to be honest and fair but to somehow protect them. We have plans to discuss it for Family Home Evening. I guess I have about 16-17 hours to figure out what the Lord would have me teach them.

When I was in seminary, I had an awesome teacher. Brother Kunz wrote lots of songs and used them in his lesson plans. The songs he wrote all had stories behind them. The one going through my head tonight was about a family who had a son injured in a terrible car accident. To the best of my memory (which may not be so great, given that it is nearly 2 am), the lyrics go something like this:

Help Me to Believe

As I kneel beside his bed, I think about the blessing on his head.

They were the words my Father gave to me. Help me to believe.

I know he hears and answers prayers, when we call him he is always there.

He promised miracles would never cease. Help me to believe.

And help me to put my trust in Thee. Hear my plea, please comfort me.

And help me see-- Miracles never cease. Help me to believe.

As I see him sitting there, I know his life is in our Father's care.

In his eyes I see his faith is complete. Help me to believe.

If I knelt at Jesus feet, He could heal my son so easily.

But I know his power works through me. Help me to believe.

And help me to put my trust in Thee. Hear my plea, please comfort me.

And help me see-- Miracles never cease. Help me to believe.

SIDENOTE: Hmm... I can't remember the rest. I tried to google it to see if I could find the lyrics. (I am getting really good at googling these days.) I just found out that he is teaching at BYU-Idaho. That's awesome. It sounds like his students enjoy his style of teaching as much as I did. One of the quickest ways to invite the spirit is through music, and he did that so often in our seminary classes. Anyway, that song is from his CD, I Believe.

Tonight, I feel like I am praying and pleading with the Lord to help me put my trust where it belongs: with Him. I am praying for comfort and faith. I am praying for the strength I need to be able to share it with my boys. I want to help them have faith, not fear. I am praying for the enabling power of the atonement to help me do something that I would not be able to do if left to my own means.

The good and the bad

2010-09-09T22:57:00.000-06:00

I (Kristen Baumgarten) am running out of invitations to my private blog, and so I am going to try harder to update on this blog so that people know what is going on with Josh. To be honest, there really wasn't a lot going on until last Tuesday, (August 31).
Josh had a meeting to go to and was up early getting ready for it. He stepped out of the bathroom and hit the floor. He was having a seizure. There was a lot of craziness, but eventually he was taken to the ER by ambulance.
The next day we saw the nurse practitioner for Neuro-Oncology and practically had to INSIST on an MRI. Neither one of us are complacent about the situation to go a long with the suggestion to wait it out. They found that there has been tumor progression (the bad news), and possibly some cell death (the maybe good news). They decided they needed a little more time to determine what exactly was going on, and we will go back for another MRI later this month.
Please don't think that because I say this over and over that it loses it's sincerity. We HONESTLY and TRULY appreciate what everyone has done for us. We have come to draw on the strength from the prayers in our behalf on a daily basis. We still pray for blessings to be poured out upon those who have reached out their arms to support and lift us up. We recognize that those are the arms that the Lord uses to answer prayers. Those are the arms he sends as proxy to his own. Thank you.

Update Coming plus note about the raffle

2010-09-08T15:44:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! Sorry the blog has been neglected. I've noticed there are still people visiting the blog everyday and want to tell you all how wonderful your support is. I talked to Kristen Baumgarten today and she told me she'll be posting an update on here very soon.

I also wanted to let everyone know that we had to draw a new winner for the raffle necklace. I've been unable to contact the gentleman whose ticket was drawn and it is likely he was making a donation rather than buying tickets and still has no idea about the raffle in the first place. Anyway, I tried to contact him through September 1st by phone and email without any response. So following the rules we established for the raffle a new ticket was drawn on September 2nd. The winner was Michelle Allred of Vernal who was especially excited since, according to her, she NEVER wins anything! So congrats Michelle!

Just so you know the fundraisers organized have all been completed and wonderful. You can still make a donation on this website by clicking on the DONATE button in the upper right hand corner. We are so thankful for the support that has poured out from all corners of the US. If you or anyone you know are still working on a fundraiser, let us know because we would love to help and can post any information on this blog to get the word out.

THANKS! And be looking for an update coming soon.

Thank You from the Kremins

2010-08-09T08:35:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to say a big Thank You again to everyone who has in any way participated in the fundraisers! I had no idea what the cost of Chemo and other things would cost our kids!! and thanks to many many willing and generous hands JOsh and Kristen have been able to keep their heads above water. Maybe one of these days, chemo won't be so expensive! Thank you again everyone. Please know you are in our prayers and we are so very grateful to you all!

Bill and Laurie Kremin

Raffle Winners!!

2010-08-07T19:54:00.001-06:00

CONGRATULATIONS JOIE MADISON OF HURRICANE, UT

YOU ARE NOW THE PROUD OWNER OF THIS GORGEOUS QUILT!

WINNING TICKET # 9893739

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

CONGRATULATIONS TIMOTHY FLANIGAN OF NEW HOPE, PA

YOU HAVE WON THIS FRESHWATER PEARL NECKLACE!

WINNING TICKET #9893415

Last chance to buy raffle tickets!

2010-08-07T09:37:00.007-06:00

RAFFLE DRAWING SET FOR
6:00pm TONIGHT!!!

LAST CHANCE TO GET YOUR TICKETS

*The ticket number and name for each winner will be posted on the blog tonight and they will be contacted.

*If the winner cannot be contacted by September 1st then a new winner will be drawn.

*The quilt and necklace will be mailed (or delivered if possibl)e to the winner anywhere in the US.

*Any questions email dadnamedjosh@gmail.com or call Kristin at 801-225-3946
*To learn more about the items being raffled click HERE.

THANKS EVERONE FOR YOUR HELP

TO MAKE THIS A SUCCESS!

Raffle Thank You and Alive After Five!

2010-08-05T15:37:00.000-06:00

TONIGHT

WHAT: Alive After 5 (raffle tickets will be for sale at a booth at this event)
WHERE: Western Park

05:00 PM - 08:00 PM MST
Local musical talent compete in a weekly contest for prizes. Public invited.

Having the raffle set up at the fair was a success and one that could not have happened without lots and LOTS of help. I hope everyone felt appreciated for their contribution but sometimes words just don't communicate how grateful we are. Well, the drawing is coming up this Saturday and there is over 1,000 tickets in the bucket!! I know everyone is crossing their fingers to win and I must say I am already jealous of whoever that may be. The quilt is AMAZING and the necklace BEAUTIFUL. We'll just have to see who the lucky winners are.....

That said there is still time to enter the raffle! Tonight we will be set up at the Alive After Five celebration at Western Park Ampitheatre at 4:30pm until about 6:30pm. It would be wonderful to have visitors come buy some tickets or just say hi. Also there is also a really easy way to buy some tickets right this very moment. There is a button to the right of this message that says DONATE. If you make a donation using PayPal then as a thank you, the appropriate amount of tickets will be entered into the drawing in your name. It's easy, safe, and obviously going to a great cause while giving yourself a chance to win something amazing. And while your at it please let your friends and family know about the raffle and how to buy tickets if they are interested. Thank you!

Booth at the Uintah County Fair

2010-07-27T08:26:00.007-06:00

We've sold hundreds of tickets for the raffle so far. Thank you to everyone who has participated! The date for the drawing has been set for August 7th. The wonderful people over the county fair have given us a spot to have a booth to set up the raffle at the fair. This is a great opportunity to make the quilt and necklace raffle a success but I'll need lots of help. We'll need someone at the booth all three days of the fair. I am planning on covering the hours on Thursday but will need LOTS of help for Friday and especially Saturday because I will be out of town. So I'm asking for your help by signing up for a time to be at the booth to manage the raffle. As people volunteer I will add their name by the time slot. Please email dadnamedjosh@gmail.com or call 801-225-3946 to sign up to help. Thank you!

WHAT: Raffle at the Uintah County Fair

WHERE: Western Park Convention Center, 302 East 200 South in Vernal

WHEN: Thursday July 29th - Saturday July 31st

BOOTH SIGN UP:
Friday July 30th

11:00 am - 2:00pm Laurie Kremin
2:00pm - 3:00pm
3:00pm - 5:00pm Rachelle Durrant
5:00pm - 7:00pm Tami Gross
7:00pm - 9:00 pm Kristin Baldwin

Saturday July 31st

9:00am - 11:00am Amber Hancock
11:00am - 1:00pm Rita Smith
1:00pm - 4:00pm
4:00pm - 6:00 pm Sharon Connelly
6:00pm - 7:00pm Amber Hancock

CONTACT: Kristin Baldwin 801-225-3946, dadnamedjosh@gmail.com

The Facts:

2010-07-14T22:19:00.001-06:00

I (Kristen Baumgarten) wanted to post on this blog to give anyone who might be interested an update.

We went back to Salt Lake last Wednesday to see Josh's doctors, and for an MRI.

So here's the latest:

Josh's tumor has shrunk by a little over a centimeter. It was 4.5cm and is now 3.4cm.
He finished another cycle of Temodar (chemotherapy)
He will start another cycle of Temodar in about 21 days from today
He will continue to receive an infusion every two weeks as part of the study he is participating in. (It is a double blind study, and we aren't sure if he is receiving Avastin or saline)
He will not have another MRI until September unless there is a need for one.
We are fine, just taking one day at a time.
We are still overwhelmed and completely humbled by all that has been and continues to be done for our family. We continue to pray for blessings to be upon each of you for helping us carry the burden.

"'Our family’s faith is in Jesus Christ and is not dependent on outcomes.'

...We do all that we can for the healing of a loved one, and then we trust in the Lord for the outcome."

-Elder Dallin H. Oaks

Let's Get Ready to Raffle!

2010-07-09T15:42:00.009-06:00

WHAT: Quilt/Necklace Raffle for the Baumgarten Family

This gorgeous, one-of-a-kind quilt was made and donated by Helen Smith, a long time family friend of Josh's parents Pete and Lyle Baumgarten in Virginia. She is by profession a long arm quilter. The quilt is on display at the Uintah County Library, 155 East Main in Vernal. The quilt's dimensions are 57 inches by 78 inches. Click HERE to see more pictures of the quilt and necklace.

The necklace was donated by Jerry and Cindy Sprosty, friends of the Kremin family. It is a freshwater pearl necklace from Indonesia.

COST: $1 per ticket or $5 for 6 tickets

To Purchase Tickets: Find a community member selling tickets. The list is below.

If you live outside the Vernal area simply email dadnamedjosh@gmail.com and tell us how you found this blog. You will recieve a reply email with details on how to purchase tickets. Or you can call Kristin Baldwin at 801-225-3946.

Vernal Community Members Selling Tickets
          Kristin Baldwin: kristinsbaldwin@gmail.com
          Sha Nielson: mnielson2@yahoo.com
          Colette Kremin at GBS Benefits: 1256 West 400 South #2, Vernal,
             435-789-9151, colette.kremin@gbsbenefits.com

Want to help sell tickets?? If you would like to help sell tickets please email dadnamedjosh@gmail.com to add your name to the list and help out! It would be great to get community members from areas beyond Vernal.

CONTACT: dadnamedjosh@gmail.com

We are inviting EVERYONE interested to purchase tickets regardless of where you live. The winner will receive their item by mail outside of the Vernal area. If you live outside of the Continental United States you can still purchase tickets or make a donation but you will need to help cover the cost to have the item mailed if you win.

Raffle Details Coming Soon!

2010-07-09T14:54:00.000-06:00

Quilt Raffle

2010-06-29T15:08:00.002-06:00

Love and support for the Baumgarten family has come from all over the United States and even other parts of the world. Several months ago I received an email from Helen Smith, a long time family friend of Josh's parents Pete and Lyle Baumgarten in Virginia. She is by profession a longarm quilter and planned to make a quilt for baby Eliza. At the suggestion of a friend she also decided to make a quilt to be auctioned in a raffle as a fundraiser and got to work on it. I received the quilt this week and it is GORGEOUS!! I can only imagine the hours of hard work and love that went into making this one of a kind quilt. Thank you Helen for your Christlike service and love for the Baumgarten family. The design of this quilt is the perfect representation of the people who have, in their own ways, reached out to Josh and his family. Thank you all!

WHAT: Quilt Raffle

WHEN: At least through the month of July

WHERE: TBD. The quilt will be displayed somewhere locally in Vernal. We should know for sure where that will be by July 1st or 2nd. More information to come.

DETAILS: 1 Ticket for $1.00 or 6 Tickets for $5.00

I need your help! A raffle is most successful when many people are involved in selling the tickets, spreading the word, and offering places and events for the raffle to be set up. So, if you are looking for a service project to do with your kids, your church youth group, or for yourself please join in helping.If you have resources that will help make the raffle a success please offer them! If you have any idea for upcoming events where the raffle could be set up please share! If you own a business and you have a spot the raffle information can be displayed please let us know! With such a beautiful item being raffled I know that together we can make this a success. Please contact me!

CONTACT: Kristin Baldwin, cell: 801-225-3946, text: 435-239-3881, email: kristinsbaldwin@gmail.com

Experience the Blessing of Giving

2010-06-24T22:25:00.000-06:00

Have you heard of UOWHO bracelets? Each little circle in the bracelet represents an act of kindness. When one act of kindness is performed, the circle can be pulled out and the bracelet can be passed on creating a chain of giving. Learn more at http://www.uowho.com/. The concept of UOWHO [as in 'You-Owe-Who?'] is simple, but holds a powerful message: make the world a better place, one Random Act of Kindness at a time!

These bracelets will be sold for $1 each during the DinaLand Triathlon at the Uintah High School track and field area. A portion of every bracelet sold will be given to the Baumgarten family. Come buy some for yourself, your family members, a youth group, girl scout troup, community club, etc and experience the blessing of giving!!

WHAT:        Get your own UOWHO bracelet!

WHEN:        Saturday, June 26th; 8:00am - 2:00pm

WHERE:      Uintah High School Track and Field area, Vernal

DETAILS:    Buy a bracelet for $1 - a portion of every bracelet sold will be given to the Baumgarten family.

CONTACT: Lynise Mason 828-8295

This Weekend: DinoLand Triathlon and Life Fair

2010-06-22T09:20:00.000-06:00

WHAT: DinoLand Triathlon 2010; Life Fair

WHEN: Saturday, June 26th

WHERE: Reed Fleet State Park; Uintah High School

DETAILS: During the Triathlon a life fair will be held at the Uintah High School track and field area. The cost is $100 for a booth and all of this fee will be donated to the Baumgarten family. The life fair will last from 8:00am - 1:00pm. A raffle is also being organized. Anyone who would like to contribute gift certificates or items to be raffled please contact Lynise Mason.

Contact: Lynise Mason 828-8295

Charity Softball Tournament this Weekend!

2010-06-22T09:02:00.004-06:00

WHAT: 11th Annual Men’s, Women’s & Co-Ed HIT-RUN-SCORE All-night softball tournament

WHEN: Friday June 25th, Saturday June 26th, & Sunday June 27th, 2010; 6/25 - 6/27

WHERE: Vernal, Utah Softball Fields

DETAILS: Come enjoy some softball action, drop off a donation, check out the raffle items, other goods, etc. Josh and his family are among the recipients of this annual charity tournament.

CONTACT: For more information call Jaime Feltch (435)781-6042

A heavy dose of surreality

2010-06-10T19:23:00.004-06:00

This is what I (Kristen Baumgarten) posted to our private blog yesterday.

Today was Josh's last day of treatment! There will be 28 days of "normal" life until he has to start another cycle of chemo. He will also have an MRI at that point to determine how effective treatment was. Until then though, I am so glad he will be able to rest more and be able to stay home. Although I just asked him what he thought he wanted to do tomorrow and he said that he thinks he will go to work!

Lately I have been feeling like this is all so surreal. It feels like the weirdest thing to realize that we are actually facing this. We are actually living this. This is something that always happens to other people, and it is always so upsetting and worrisome to hear their stories.

When my friend, Josh Graham, got sick I remember feeling the same way, thinking that it didn't seem real. It was SO hard to wrap my head around it. My heart ached for him and for his family. It just didn't seem fair, but I was amazed and inspired by his positive attitude and rock-solid faith.

Now, even though it has been a little over two months since my Josh was diagnosed, I am feeling that same feeling. I can't wrap my head around it. That surreal feeling was so strong at the Relay for Life during the survivor/fighter and caretaker walk. It was actually kind of hard and emotional. I just kept thinking: "I can't believe we are here doing this," and "How did we get here?" "How is it that so many people just randomly get thrown into this heart-breaking, scary, and yet faith-building/testing reality?" and "How are we among all these strong families and friends?"

This is just after the walk and I was feeling a little overwhelmed by everything. It felt so good to just have Josh put his arms around me and remind me that no matter what, everything would be okay.

Benson didn't want his daddy to go without him. He walked with him all the way around the track with all the other survivors/fighters. What a cute little man. He is such a sweet little boy.

This was the first time that we have ever participated in the Relay for Life, and even though we didn't participate in everything, I was impressed by how many people support the event and take the opportunity to honor and remember those who have experienced cancer in one way or another.

We have great friends who put a team together in honor of my Josh and in memory or Josh Graham. One of our friends that organized the team, brought luminaries for us to decorate. Because I thought what Kimball put on Josh's was so cute, I decided to take pictures of what we had done to remember them.

The first one is for Josh Graham and I just wrote just a few of the things that we remember and admire about Josh. (Toni, in case you read this, I hope you know how much we all loved your Josh and how I admire your strength. My heart still aches for you, and yet you set such a good example for me.)

The second is for my Josh and Kimball wrote a message for him on the back. The picture is of Josh throwing a ball with Kimball.

Before I put this post to rest, I have to post a picture of my baby. Eliza is one month old! Seriously? It's not fair. I hate that time goes by and they grow out of the newborn stage so quickly.

She actually has a little cold right now, and because she is still so tiny I took her in to the doctor to be sure that it was just a cold and that everything was fine. The doctor reassured me that she is fine, and we just have to wait for the virus to run its course. The fun part of the visit was that I got to have her weighed and found out that she is now 7lbs 11oz!! Way to grow Eliza! Holy smokes! That's a whole pound and two ounces since she was born a month ago.

Here she is just chillin' in the swing. See how her hair still sticks up all over everywhere? Benson says, "She meeds to fix hers hairs!" He is so cute about making sure I know when she needs me. They all love her so much. McKay is always so good to be sure he gives her a love and probably could never hold her enough and Kimball sings to her about how much he loves her and will always protect her.

Yard Sale/Bake Sale this Friday and Saturday!!!

2010-06-01T08:25:00.004-06:00

WHAT: Yard Sale/Bake Sale, ALL to benefit the Baumgarten family

WHEN: Friday June 4th 10:00am - 5:00pm and Saturday June 5th, 8:00am - whenever everything's gone!

WHERE: Katie Morgan's home, Vernal 9th Ward Member
                          653 W 200 N in Vernal

WHAT YOU CAN DO: Come on June 4th/5th!! DONATE items to be sold! BAKE(or buy;) some goodies for the bake sale.

CONTACT:    Katie Morgan at (801)415-9689
                                     Email: kmorganmama@gmail.com
                                  Sha Nielson at (435)790-5192
                                     Email mnielson2@yahoo.com

Last Call!!

2010-05-27T14:48:00.000-06:00

The month of May, with all its wind and crazy weather, has FLOWN by. Two fundraisers are coming to a close in a few days so here is a final reminder of what they are and if you have a minute please visit their website to say THANK YOU!!!

WHAT: MARY KAY Fundraiser

WHEN: Now until the end of the month. Order accepted through May 31st.
DETAILS: Alicen Taylor Independent Mary Kay Beauty consultant is donating 40% of your purchase price to the Baumgartens.
HOW TO ORDER: Order online at www.marykay.com/ataylor24, call Alicen at 435-789-8992, text 828-8416 or email ataylor24@marykay.com.

Kyle Ashworth began his fundraising effort the beginning of April and finishes on June 1st. He committed to give $500 for every home he sold before June 1st. That is coming pretty quick so there isn't enough time for new clients to be part of his fundraising effort but this is the perfect time for all of you to help say THANK YOU to him for his generous and heartfelt contribution. Visit http://www.vernalhomefinder.com/!

Never enough ways to say THANKS!

2010-05-24T14:13:00.000-06:00

There probably isn't a proper way to thank everyone for the amazing things being done for the Baumgarten family. This isn't the first and surely won't be the last post trying to say THANK YOU for what has been done. In the last few weeks there have been more fundraising events.

The ladies at Sending Smiles and all the people who bid on the items that were auctioned are angels. Most of the people involved are perfect strangers to the Baumgartens and some are even clueless about where Vernal is, but they showed their love anyway. What amazing examples of selfless service. THANK YOU ALL!!!!

The owners and staff of Basin Sports and Marsen Furniture are an excellent example of the GIGANTIC hearts of people in the Basin. Obviously, not every business can reach out and help every cause. To all involved in the fundraising efforts at these businesses last weekend THANK YOU for your love and support!!!

The rummage sale was a great success and a lot of fun! THANK YOU Coldwell Banker Aspen Brook Realty, Inc. for the time and effort to put this together. Every minute of your precious time and effort is appreciated!

A daddy daughter moment.......

2010-05-22T22:32:00.003-06:00

My fingers may be small,
but I can still wrap daddy around them.

SATURDAY: Coldwell Banker Rummage Sale

2010-05-21T20:04:00.000-06:00

WHAT: Coldwell Banker Rummage Sale/ Quilt Raffle

WHEN: Saturday, May 22nd; 9:00AM - 1:00PM

WHERE: 1340 West Highway 40 in the Coldwell Banker parking lot, just East of the movie theatres

DETAILS: Come to the sale. Enter the quilt raffle. Donate items to sell. If anyone would like to donate items for the sale please drop them off at the Coldwell Banker office anytime Monday through Friday between 9:00AM and 5:00PM. If you have items to be picked up please call Angela Walker or Jennifer Hawkins. A picture of the quilt will be posted later this week.

CONTACT: Anglea Walker at 435-828-3770 or Jennifer Hawkins at 435-828-4198

A Sincere Thanks

2010-05-21T08:21:00.001-06:00

The Baumgarten family in Virginia wants to express our deepest gratitude for all you have done for Kristen and Josh the past 2 months. Words cannot express how we feel being over 2,000 miles away and reading about all the fund raisers, service projects, and love expressed for our children and grandchildren living in Vernal. May the Lord bless you. All our love, Pete and Lyle Baumgarten and Family

Half way there!

2010-05-19T07:23:00.000-06:00

Tuesday was Josh's 15th radiation treatment, and since he needs 30, he is half-way there! The best part is that he is still feeling pretty good. Yes, he has lost hair and yes, he gets really tired. But, he hasn't gotten sick and thanks to the radiation van that takes him to Salt Lake everyday, we have been able to try and maintain a "normal" family life. He is still in good spirits and positive about treatments, traveling, and everything in between.
Once his radiation treatments are done, he will have a "cooling period" for four weeks followed by another MRI and a shorter cycle of Temodar (the chemo). The MRI will determine how successful all this radiation and chemo have been on the tumor.
Everyday is a new day and a chance for us to be grateful for life and for all of you who have reached out to us in one way or another. Not a prayer is spoken that we do not thank our Heavenly Father for the acts of kindness, the service, the financial support, the well-wishes, the prayers in our behalf. We pray that blessings will be upon each of you for what you have done for us. We pray that in someway, someday, we might be able to reach out and show the same love and support to others and that we will never forget how humbling this experience has been.
With much love- Josh, Kristen, Kimball, McKay, Benson, and Eliza

Relay for Life: Team Ad Astra - To the Stars

2010-05-17T13:12:00.008-06:00

"The American Cancer Society Relay For Life represents the hope that those lost to cancer will never be forgotten, that those who face cancer will be supported, and that one day cancer will be eliminated." -relayforlife.org

WHAT: Relay for Life

WHEN: June 4th and 5th

WHERE: Uintah High School

DETAILS: Team Ad Astra - To the Stars has made a goal of raising $1000. This money is given to the American Cancer Society for cancer research's fight for a cure. Tami Gross and her sons Kiersten and Kiley know and love the Baumgarten family. Josh was their Young Mens Leader at church for several years before the Baumgartens moved out of the 9th ward. They formed this team in honor of Josh and in memory of other close friends who have lost their battle with cancer. They have 9 team members who have also been affected by cancer and are part of relay for life's fight for a cure.

CONTACT: Tami Gross at 435-790-4490 or Mindy Smith at 435-781-1515
click here to visit the Team Ad Astra page

How You Can Help:

Click here to

Donate to Team Ad Astra

Join Team Ad-Astra

Buy a Luminary

Team Ad Astra invites everyone to purchase a luminary bag for $10 that can be decorated and dedicated in honor or memory of someone affected by cancer. The bags can be decorated however the purchaser sees fit and the luminary will be displayed at the event. It will be part of the luminary ceremony at 9:00pm on June 4th. All are welcome to participate! The bags must be decorated and returned to a member of Team Ad Astra no later than May 27th to be displayed and part of the ceremony. They would love to have a section of luminary bags for Josh as a show of support and love for he and his family. Call Tami Gross at 435-790-4490 or Mindy Smith at 781-1515 to purchase a luminary bag.

Raffle Tickets:

Raffle tickets are also being sold and can be purchased from any Ad Astra team member or other teams participating in Relay for Life.
1 for $1 or 6 for $5.

What is Being Raffled:
3 month membership to Curves
1 month free lessons and uniform to keep from Unbroken Circle
Tickets for a family of four to a Salt Lake Bees Game
3 free days of Handy Man Service from K&W Handy Service
Tires and Rims from Dan's Tire
1 Adult and 1 Kids punch pass to Vernal's Rec Center
8X10 Autographed photo of Kyle Korver with jersey and basketball
8X10 Autographed photo of Andrei Kirilenko with jersey and basketball
Flaming Gorge Lodge overnight stay with dinner breakfast and raft rental
Years supply of milk from Meadow Gold.

The buyer can choose which prize drawing to enter.
Donations or sponsors can be made to my team Ad Astra - To the Stars (Kiersten picked the name he is taking Latin can you tell?) online at uintahrelay.com (search my name or team name to make donations or sponsors) or call Tami Gross at 435-790-4490 or Mindy Smith at 781-1515.

To see other team pages or to learn more about Relay for Life in the Uintah Basin, visit http://www.uintahrelay.com/

Drink and Never Thirst by Liz Lemon Swindle

2010-05-16T12:15:00.000-06:00

"The story of the woman at the well holds a particular interest because it speaks so directly to all of us. There are times in each of our lives when we stray from the path leading back to our Heavenly Father and need to know there is a way back home.

"In the story of the woman at the well, the Savior invites the Samarian women to drink of the living waters. She mistakenly thinks Jesus is speaking of the water dripping from her jar. It is only as she sits at his feet and listens to His words that she comes to know Jesus is speaking of the spiritual waters of repentance.

"It was Jesus who gave rest to the woman's troubled soul that day, and it is He who continues to give rest to a troubled world. He stands ready to forgive if we will but ask, and He continues to show each of us there is always a way back home."

-- Liz Lemon Swindle

Helping Hands: Basin Sports

2010-05-14T14:42:00.003-06:00

WHAT: Basin Sports Baumgarten Benefit

WHEN: Saturday, May 15th, Open till Close

WHERE: Basin Sports, 511 West Main in Vernal

DETAILS: 10% of all sales will be donated to the Baumgarten family

CONTACT: Phone: 1-888-246-4867, E-mail: customer_support @ basinsports.com

WEBSITE: www.basinsports.com

Come get equipped to enjoy the great outdoors while showing your support of the Baumgarten family!

Helping Hands: Marsen Furniture Outlet

2010-05-13T21:56:00.004-06:00

WHAT: Marsen Furniture Outlet Baumgarten Benefit

WHEN: Saturday, May 15th; 9:30AM - 6:00PM

WHERE: Marsen Furniture Outlet; 40 N 500 W, Vernal

DETAILS: 10% of all sales will be donated to the Baumgarten family

*note: if you haven't been in to Marsen you should take this chance to check it out on Saturday. I own a fabulous couch(like the one above) and comfy lazyboy from Marsen and am a 100% satisfied customer!

Message from the Family

2010-05-13T21:15:00.002-06:00

From Our Family.....We are Kristen's parents, Bill and Laurie Kremin. How in the world can we ever thank you enough???? We will be loyal to your businesses though!! And we will give back to this community!! We so appreciate this help!! Josh and Kristen are very appreciative! You guys are the BEST! Thank you a million ten trillion times! With all of our hearts thank you! The Kremins

Thank you Subway and Channel X94!

2010-05-13T16:32:00.000-06:00

Saturday's SINK the PINK event was an absolute success. The golfers were more than generous and everyone had a great time! Kristen's Aunt Collete and Uncle Mark Kremin represented the family and accepted the check for the money raised on their behalf.

The pic above is the X94 crew and Scott from Subway, myself and the Kremins

I doubt we can say THANK YOU enough to Charlie, Scott and everyone who made this event possible and a success but I'll try anyway.

Helping Hands: Rifle being raffled by Nikki Kempton and family

2010-05-11T15:18:00.001-06:00

WHAT:    A new Weatherby Vanguard 270 short mag rifle with a Nikon BDC scope is being raffled to benefit the Baumgarten family. The rifle picture above is not the actual rifle but a stock photo of a Weatherby Vanguard Synthetic rifle from weatherby.com. The scope picture is not the actual scope but a stock photo of a Nikon Slughunter BDC scope from nikonsro.com.

WHEN:    Through July! The raffle winner will tenatively be announced at an event related to the Uintah County Fair. When those details are available they will be posted on the blog.

COST:    1 ticket for $10.00 or 6 tickets for $50.00

CONTACT:    Nicci Kempton at 789-4423 to purchase tickets or learn more!

Little Princess

2010-05-09T18:00:00.004-06:00

I will let the cute little girl speak for herself.;)

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-08T22:33:00.002-06:00

Sweet baby Eliza

Weighing 6lbs 9oz

Measuring 18 3/4 in

Born at 9:00am on Saturday, May 8th

....and she already has daddy wrapped around her finger.

Mom and baby are doing great. Look for more pictures soon!

Saturday May 8th, 8am - 2pm: Make a stop at the Dinaland Golf Course

2010-05-07T22:36:00.003-06:00

SINK the PINK

Vernal's Dinaland Golf Course: 675 South 2000 East

8:00AM - 2:00PM

Get a t-shirt and Subway coupon

just for participating!!

Everyone wins in this fundraising competition. Every participant will get a cool t-shirt and a coupon for a free Subway breakfast sandwich. You pay $10 and get 3 chances to make a putt on the putting range. Make a putt and keep going in the competition. The grand prize package includes a new BBQ grill and valuable gift certificates! ALL the money earned will be given to the Baumgarten family. Come help a great cause.

All Ages Welcome!

Any Skill Level!

Fun Guaranteed!

To the highest bidder!

2010-05-07T08:53:00.008-06:00

Once Sending Smiles posted the items being auctioned, I had one reaction: Are You Kidding Me?!?! The items are, in a word, AWESOME. To someone with zero crafty abilities I am amazed at the cute hand made items being auctioned off and the women who so willingly donated. I was also surprised at how low the bidding start prices are. The auction closes Saturday night at midnight. This is the perfect opportunity to find that perfect gift for yourself, your kids, or a friend and every penny you pay for the item will be given to the Baumgartens. Everyone wins. :) click here to go visit the Sending Smiles website. Here is a peak at some of the items if you still need convincing....

A message from Josh

2010-05-06T18:35:00.000-06:00

I want to express my thoughts of sincere gratitude to all in the Vernal/Roosevelt and surrounding communities in Utah, even in other States in this Great Nation, America, in which we all live in...each of your charitable thoughts & donations all in the spirit of brotherly/sisterly love has profoundly changed my life in ways that only strengthen my resolve to overcome this cancer by faith in Gods healing power through His Son Jesus Christ, and return this same service of love to my community.
Thank you Kristin for your example of love for our family in all that you have done and continue to do...contributing/sacrificing many long hours of your own family time because of the love you have for your friend, my wife - Kristen. I want to thank all of Kristen & my friends/ family who came together to help lift the burden of organizing and putting together her baby nursery, and countless other acts of kindness around the home. Please accept my sincere love to each of you and may Gods blessing be upon all who have participated in this miracle of Gods tender mercy for our family.

I Love You!

Josh Baumgarten

Subs for Service Success

2010-05-06T18:27:00.000-06:00

You've heard the term "standing room only" - well that practically describes Subway today at lunchtime. What an amazing community we live in. The Baumgartens are loved and supported by so many. I know it was a bit overwhelming for Kristen today when she looked around and realized she knew literally every person there having lunch, eating cookies, and running crazy with balloons(mostly kids....mostly). Thank you all for coming and showing your support. Thank you to X94 for teaming up with Scott and getting the word out. Thank you Scott and the Subway crew who worked so hard to put this together and undoubtably worked overtime today(and still are!) to make this a success. From the very bottom of my heart thank you all. I found myself in tears more than once as I looked around. The Baumgartens continue to express their awe and appreciation for all everyone is doing. THANK YOU EVERYONE!!!!!

PS- If you are reading this on Thursday before 9pm there is still time for you to head to Subway and get some grub, cookies, or make a bid on the Jazz memorabilia!!! Bids can be made on the Jazz memorabilia until Saturday at 2pm when the winners will be announced. For more info on the items in the auction CLICK HERE.

3 FUN fundraisers in the next few days!!!

2010-05-05T10:06:00.007-06:00

#1. What: Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner at the new Subway in Vernal

When:    Anytime on Thursday May 6th. TOMORROW! A group of Josh and Kristen's friends will be there at 12:30pm. If Kristen is feeling up to it she will be there too. Please JOIN US!! Or you could plan to get lunch from there for your office. Make it that special day you all go out together!
Details:      Subway's Subs for Service Day - 10% of all sales will be going to the Baumgartens
                   Jazz memoribilia auction - the last bid I heard for the basketball was $1000!!! Come see it and make a bid on it or the signed Jazz pictures. The bids on the pictures start at $15. More info and pictures.
_________________________________________________
#2. What: Visit the Sending Smiles Website and view the items being auctioned

When:    Thursday May 6th - Saturday May 8th(closes at midnight)
Details:       All the money earned from the auction will go to the Baumgarten family. Check out all the gorgeous, hand made items being auctioned. Click here to go to the website.
_________________________________________________
#3. What:     Stop by the Dinaland Golfcourse for the SINK the PINK fundraiser

When: This Saturday, May 8th. Come anytime between 8am and 2pm.

Details: ANYONE can stop by and participate. Pay $10 for 3 chances to make a putt. Those who make it can continue in the competition and the winner will receive a prize package including a NEW BBQ Grill!!

Every participant will receive a t-shirt and a coupon for a free Subway Sandwich!!! All the money raised will go to the Baumgartens. Come have fun and help us make this a success!!! Click here for more details.

Another Way to Help the Baumgartens

2010-05-04T03:05:00.002-06:00

I know that many of you are already helping the Baumgartens in many ways. However, as a young parent myself, I find that there are many things that can become incredibly overwhelming, even without the burden of sickness.

I realize that there are accounts and fundraisers that have been set up in their family name. I'm grateful that the costs of medical expenses are being addressed. However, I would like to help their family in various ways that may lift some different burdens and allow their family to spend as much time together as possible. I plan on organizing about one service per week. This week, someone will be coming to clean their home before the baby comes.

I know that many of us who live out of town want to help, but don't know how. Some of you may have time constraints due to work/family. Let this be the opportunity to help! If you are willing to make a donation of even $5, I can assure you it will be put to good use (skip the Wendy's drive through this week!) For those who donate, I will update you weekly on what service was provided. Please include your email address.

Please send payment through Paypal using the following email address: thepaulks@comcast.net

Or, if you feel more comfortable, it can be sent via mail to:

Lindsey Paulk

3686 S Flanders ST

Aurora, CO 80013

If anyone has any good ideas for services, feel free to email them to me. Also, I'm looking for any family pictures that anyone may have. Please send them to me via email.

My next project is to send Kristen and Josh on a mini date so that they can enjoy each other.

Thanks for all of your love and support-

Lindsey Anders Paulk

Mary Kay Fundraiser Extended!

2010-05-03T13:01:00.000-06:00

Alicen Taylor has extended her fundraising efforts through the month of May! Anyone who places an order for this fundraiser will be giving 40% of the price they pay to the Baumgarten family. This is a great opportunity to buy the health and beauty items you already need and use while helping ease the financial burden on the Baumgarten family. The other day I picked up some mascara from Alicen because I had run out and figured I might as well support this fundraiser than just give my money to the store I usually buy from.

Remember, Mother's Day is this Sunday!!!

Call Alicen(435-789-8992) to see what items she has in stock that your Mother will love.

Or click here to place an order online and support the Baumgartens while pampering yourself.

Thanks everyone for all you are doing!!

"In Memory of Josh - In Honor of Josh"

2010-05-01T16:46:00.001-06:00

In Loving Memory of Josh Graham

(Toni Graham and Kristen Baumgarten)

In Honor of Josh Baumgarten

(Celesta Graham and her Grandpa Richardson)

The Graham family and the Baumgarten family have been friends for years. Josh Graham lost his battle with cancer on July 14th, 2009 being survived by his wife Toni, sons Keaton and Christian, and daughters Celesta and baby Lizzy. Toni and Kristen have been a support for one another and continue to be. Toni is an avid runner and wanted to do something special to honor her Josh and Kristen's Josh. She had t-shirts made and organized a group of family and friends to participate in the 5K this morning. Amazingly enough Kristen showed up(one week from having her baby!) to support the Graham family and her husband Josh and walked the entire 5K. It was a special thing to be a part of. Me miss you Josh Graham and we are fighting for you Josh Baumgarten!!

Subway Subs for Service Details!

2010-04-30T08:48:00.001-06:00

(Contributed by Scott Giles, Vernal Subway owner)

Thursday May 6th we are holding a benefit for the Baumgarten family. Both Vernal Subways are going to donate 10% of Thursdays sales to the Baumgarten family. The Vernal Subway will also be holding a silent auction for several Jazz memorabilia items. (The following images are not the actual pictures being auctioned off)

2010 Official Utah Jazz Autographed basketball Starting bid is $450

Autographed picture 8x11 Jerry Sloan Starting bid is $25

Autographed picture 8x11 Carlos Boozer Starting bid is $25

Autographed picture 8x11 Mehmet Okur Starting bid is $20

Autographed picture 8x11 Paul Millsap Starting bid is $15

Autographed picture 8x11 Ronnie Brewer Starting bid is $15

The auction will go until May 8th. You can call Scott Giles @ 435-219-9306 or X94 @ 435-781-1100 to bid on the Jazz memorabilia. All Jazz memorabilia can be picked up at the Dinaland Golf course Saturday May 8th at 2:30 pm.

Subway has also Teamed up with Charlie at X94 to sponsor the 10th Annual X94 Golf Tournament.

The Golf tournament is $50 per golfer and part of the entrance fee will be donated as well. During the golf tournament Channel X94 will be holding their first annual putting contest,

"Sink the Pink"

Sink the Pink entrance fee is $10
All proceeds will be donated to the Baumgarten family.
Each contestant will receive a Sink the Pink shirt and a free breakfast Sandwich from Subway!

You will have three chances to sink the pink golf ball to move up a bracket. The winners of the Sink the Pink challenge will win an assortment of prizes.

Any donations will be greatly appreciated!
T Scott Giles
Owner/Director of Operations
VWM, Vernal, & Wasatch Sub LLC
http://www.mysubways.com/
scottgiles23@gmail.com

Another successful fundraiser!!

2010-04-29T12:56:00.000-06:00

Last Saturday a friend of the Baumgartens, Mindy Smith, held her own fundraiser for them. She is a brilliant photographer and used her talent to have an all day marathon photo shoot fundraiser. Above is a picture of my two kids during our session. She spent 20 minutes with us and yet I have a dozen pictures I will treasure forever. She gave every penny to the Baumgartens and it was a success. To put it into perspective she spent at least 10 hours of her day Saturday doing mini photo shoots and will have spent at least that much time editing and preparing the CDs for those who booked sessions in the days since(and is still working on that end of it all).

I know you didn't want me to make this a big deal Mindy but I have to give a SHOUT OUT to you. Thank you for sharing your talents to the benefit of others.

And if you are looking for a Basin photographer visit her website and give her a call!! 781-1515

Update.....barely

2010-04-28T01:00:00.001-06:00

(Submitted by Kristen Baumgarten 4/27 and used with her permission. Josh starts radiation and chemotherapy today in Salt Lake City. Let's all remember them in our prayers.)

I know that a post is long overdue. It is just that every time I get started I have to stop because all of the emotion that I can safely tuck away comes flooding to the surface. There is so much that I can write to just get out of my system, but I am afraid to let it out. I am afraid that I won't be able to keep it together to function as a wife and mother or to just be able to make it from one minute to the next.

That being said, we did go to Salt Lake last week for appointments. Marathon appointments is what they should call them. They line up several people to talk to you and you end up being there for hours. Tuesday was long. Wednesday was longer. In a nutshell, they all wanted to make sure that we understood the diagnosis (glioblastoma multiforme) and what to expect. Treatment starts this Wednesday, April 28.

There was a lot of information, a lot to absorb, and in the end we realize that it doesn't really matter what experiences other patients have had. Yes, their diagnosis might be the same, but the Lord's plan for them is not.

Josh (who of course has much more faith than I) told me that he decided on the night we found out he had a brain tumor (before we knew it was cancer) that he had to put is full faith in the Lord. He decided to have faith that if it was the Lord's will to sustain his life, then it would be sustained.

He told me that was all that mattered and that it was our job to open our eyes to the big picture, to maintain an eternal perspective. We have to take comfort and hope in the fact that the Lord is in charge and is capable of making miracles happen.

So, then in the middle of the night when he tells me that his arm, leg, and face are numb I have to remind myself that overall, Josh isn't scared. I have to remind myself that everything will be ok. I have to turn my thoughts to the outpouring of love and support that we have been shown. I have to immediately say a prayer of gratitude for the goodness inside everyone around us. So many people who have made miracles happen. People who have given time, talents, resources, hearts and minds in our behalf. So much to be thankful for. So much to make me realize that I don't have the luxury of dwelling in the flood of fear. There are evidences all around us, through all of you, that the Lord is aware of us and of our needs. He sends those around us to share their love, to wrap their arms around us and remind us (or me) to put our faith in God.

So again, thank you for everything that is being done and for the constant reminder, which I have sincerely needed.

Get Jazzed for Subway Subs for Service!!: Today's Helping Hands (4/27)

2010-04-26T22:51:00.002-06:00

What:     Get Jazzed for Subway Subs for Service

When:    Thursday, May 6th from 7:00am until closing at 9:00pm

Where: Subway Restaurant Locations; 1205 West HWY 40 and 1851 W HWY 40 in Walmart

Details:  10% of all sales made on May 6th in either Vernal Subway restaurant will be donated to the Baumgarten family. There will be a silent auction for AWESOME Jazz memorabilia including a BASKETBALL SIGNED BY THIS SEASON'S TEAM as well as signed photograph's of fan favorite's Carlos Boozer, Memot Okur, Jerry Sloan and more!! The winners will be announced at the Channel X94 golf tournament on May 8th.

Scott Giles at Subway has given 110% support to the fundraising efforts for the Baumgartens. It has really been astonishing to me. Please come in to Subway on May 6th and enjoy your favorite sandwich and make a bid in the silent auction! Photos of the items being auctioned will be posted as soon as they are available. This is sure to be an event your entire family will enjoy being a part of!! Just one more thing to say:

GO JAZZ!!!

A Matter of Clarification

2010-04-26T16:16:00.002-06:00

My heartrate spiked when I first learned of Josh's brain tumor. I'm Kristen Baumgarten's friend Kristin Baldwin. I immediately felt upset and as cliche as it is all I could think was "this isn't fair." I have to be honest I wasn't thinking about Josh(sorry Josh! I hope you understand) I was thinking about Kristen - my reliable girlfriend, my friend who experienced motherhood in much the same way as I was, my friend who could laugh with me or cry with me or grumble with me. My friend who on the outside looked perfect and always put together but was an honest vulnerable one-day-at-a-time woman just like me! Over the next week I felt helpless to help my friend - what could I possibly say or do? How could I ever act like I have any idea what she must be going through? Finally, I realized I just couldn't. My friend Sha and I were desperate to help. So what could we do?

This blog. The fundraising efforts. The calls for help. To anyone who has wondered:

Neither Josh nor Kristen asked for any of it.

In fact, I have to say I was a bit of a bully about it because I know Kristen. As sure as I know she is incredibly humble and grateful for the love and generousity shown them, I also KNOW she would never have asked for a penny from anyone. Does that mean there wasn't a need?? Absolutely not. I also KNOW that there was a genuine need for financial help. The Baumgartens are a hard-working young family. Self-sufficient is perhaps the best way to describe them. A year ago they acquired financing to buy a beautiful new home and there was a plan and a budget. They had no idea what brooded on the horizen. Who could have known the economy would affect the oil industry the way it has? Who could have known a new home could lose so much equity in a single year? Who could have known the bread winner and provider for the family has advanced brain cancer, news of which would arrive about the same time sweet baby #4 was due?

I'm a little unsure how all this will sound when you read it but I had to make sure one thing was clear: The Baumgartens have not asked for anything and like anyone it has been overwhelming and a challenge to accept the generous money and donations given. To anyone visiting this blog I thank you for your support, love, and caring towards the Baumgartens. So many friends of the family as well as perfect strangers have reached out and shared their love and support. THAT is the point. Not to put their life and trials on display. So please continue to do what you're doing and extend your love and support because I believe in Karma. At one point or another we will ALL need a helping hand. For any questions or comments or suggestions for the blog or fundraising efforts please contact me directly. 435-823-3946.

DinoLand Triathalon: Today's Helping Hands (4/26)

2010-04-26T10:30:00.002-06:00

DinoLand Triathlon 2010 to be held June 26th has pledged a portion of their proceeds from the triathalon and surrounding events including a Life Fair to the Baumgarten family. Plans are still in the works and more details are to come. In the meantime consider participating in the Triathalon! There is a Sprint course(swim 1/2 mile, bike 13.1 miles, and run a 5k) and an Olymic course(swim 1 mile, bike 27 miles, and run a 10k). For more information or to register visit the website www.dinotri.com or contact Mark Mason, mmason@macu.com.

We want to create some teams to participate in the Baumgarten family name. If you doubt your ability to complete a full Triathlon yourself please consider joining a relay team. These teams could be 2 or 3 people who break up the different phases of the race: Swim(1/2 mile), Bike(13.1 miles), and Run(5k or 3.1 miles). If you are interested in being on a team and completing either the swim, bike, OR run portion only please contact me at kristinscof@hotmail.com. If we get enough people interested we will form teams to participate as a show of support to the Baumgartens. Adding your name to the list is not a commitment so please get your name on there even if you are just interested but still unsure. Thanks everyone!!!

"Vernal has to be one of the very best towns in the world, full of great people."

2010-04-25T21:47:00.006-06:00

(The following is a message left by Kristen's Grandma Kremin and the quote below is a quote I know the Baumgartens love and live by. The picture is of the Vernal, UT LDS Temple, © Rick Satterfield.)

"Angel" is an appropriate name for ALL who have been so kind and loving to help these wonderful kids. We, all the rest of their family, thank you all, from the bottom of our hearts. We all are praying for the best possible end to this nightmare. Vernal has to be one of the very best towns in the world, full of great people. -Grandpa and Grandma Kremin

Words to live by

Men and women who turn their lives over to God will find out that he can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace. Whoever will lose his life to God will find he has eternal life.

-Ezra Taft Benson

Angels here on earth

2010-04-24T14:27:00.001-06:00

What a wonderful day! Thanks to everyone who came and supported this fundraiser. There were so many generous donations given, including tie dyed shirts to sell along with all the goodies. The support from all the soccer families as well as those who came because they heard about the fundraiser was just overwhelming. Thanks to X94 for spreading the word to the awesome listeners in the area, we loved having you come! Thanks to Subway for donating the yummy cookies. A huge thanks to all the other AWESOME drinks and goodies donated to sell. I would walk away for a few minutes and come back to new items like donuts, Hi-C, and t-shirts. Your generousity means so much. Nothing went to waste!! Thanks to George at Covers and Camo for taking pictures, donating supplies, stickers, balloons, and signs. Most of all is a big thanks to Dalton, Bodie, Ashley, and their angel mother Lisa for all the hard work and unimaginable thoughtfulness that went into this. It's like Laurie(Kristen's mother) said, "they are the angels here on earth." It was so special to have Josh and his family stop by. There were hugs, and tears, and smiles. It truly was wonderful. Thank you all for your support and check back soon for an update on Josh and his treatment plan.

Reminder for tomorrow, Saturday June 24th

2010-04-23T20:00:00.000-06:00

Dalton, Ashley, and Bodie are at it again!!!!!

What:     Lemonade/Subway Cookies Stand during the AYSO Youth Soccer Games
Where:   Vernal Junior High Fields 1000 W Main Street
When:    Saturday April 24th, 9:00am till it's gone

What you can do:    Contribute lemonade, soda, anything to sell(drop off at event or call 823-3946), come buy a drink and some delicious Subway cookies(3/$1)!

Click here for the story of these awesome kids!

What: Marathon Fundraising Photo Shoot Day.

When: Saturday, April 24th all day

Contact: Melinda Smith 781-1515

For prices and details click here.

What: Mary Kay Open House

Where: Alicen Taylor's home

When: Saturday, June 24th 11:00am-4:00pm

Details: This open house is for Alicen's regular customers but anyone is welcome to attend. Just mention the Baumgarten fundraiser and 40% of your purchase price will be donated directly to the Baumgarten Family Fund. Place an order online here if you can't make it to the open house. For more info click here.

Nalco, Anadarko, and friends are finishing the Baumgarten's backyard this Saturday, June 24th. If you want to come help lay sod they start at 6am!! Any questions call 823-3946.

Hit-Run-Score All-night softball tournament: Today's Helping Hands(4/23)

2010-04-23T01:00:00.012-06:00

11th Annual Men’s, Women’s & Co-Ed

HIT-RUN-SCORE

All-night softball tournament

Friday June 25th, Saturday June 26th, & Sunday June 27th, 2010

Vernal, Utah

Your generosity this year will make a difference to the families of Mark Hatch, Ulene Smuin Jensen, and Joshua Baumgarten. We come to you at this time while new budgets are being formed to ask for your kindness in supporting our effort to help people within and/or from our own community. You can show your support by sponsoring a softball team, donating money, raffle items, goods, or services.

2010 Recipients

Mark Hatch is the Husband of Sue and father of RuthAnn Hatch, Mary Gata and Sara Fluckiger. Mark was born and raised in Vernal and has lived here all his life. Mark has always been involved with scouting and enjoys most anything involving the outdoors. Mark was employed at Perry Motor prior to being diagnosed with terminal bone cancer.

Ulene Smuin Jensen is the wife of James Jensen, and a mother to three small children Andrew, Ellie and Isabella. Ulene was born and raised in Vernal, and is the daughter of Lynn and Pauline Smuin. At just 36 years old Ulene was diagnosed with pregnancy induced cardio myopathy (heart failure). She currently relies on the L-Vad machine (artificial heart) to stay alive until a heart becomes to her for a transplant.

Joshua Baumgarten is the husband of Kristen (Kremin), and father of Kimball, McKay, Benson and awaiting his fourth child that is due in may. Josh and Kristen are raising their young family here in Vernal, where Josh provides their living working at Nalco. Josh is currently being treated for a brain tumor, that was discovered just a few short weeks ago.

Past Hit-Run-Score Recipients
(2009) Wayne Jenkins
(2009) Terry Harvey
(2008)Kayle Gardiner
(2008)Becky Erskine Gardiner
(2008)Al Stone
(2007)Shelly Slaugh
(2007)Debbie Pummell
(2007)MarShel Erickson Gonzales
(2006)Cody Anderson
(2006)Carolyn Anderson
(2005)Lexie Haslem
(2005)Deegan Harwood
(2005)Matthew Harris

Prior to this, donations were made to the Ronald Mcdonald house and family of Marie Dulen.
Our past successes would not have been possible without your generous donations and support.

Thank you in advance for your time and contributions to this effort. It takes the whole community to make a difference. Your generosity will be so greatly appreciated by all the families involved. Remember June 25th, 26th and 27th at the Vernal city ballpark, come and continue to support our efforts by buying a raffle ticket or something from our 24hr. Concessions. Remember, 100% of all proceeds are donated to these families.
If you would like more information regarding this effort, please contact one of the following:
-Misti Taylor (435)789-9998 (435)790-9903
-Jaime Feltch(435)781-6042 (435)790-2069
-Stephanie Gilroy (435)781-1542 (435)828-0088
-Suzan Guymon (435)781-1604 (435)790-3267
For monetary donations by mail, please make checks payable to: Hit-Run-Score: PO Box 1395 Vernal, Utah 84078 (receipts are available upon request).

*This information was submitted by Jaime Feltch.

Nalco, Anadarco, and friends: Today's Helping Hands(4/22)

2010-04-21T22:19:00.000-06:00

Nalco, Anadarko, and friends have come together to donate the dirt, sprinklers, and sod (not to mention installation) necessary to finish the Baumgarten's back yard. Josh is a valued employee of Nalco and works closely with Anadarko(Nalco provides services to Anadarko).

As a fellow mommy and friend of Kristen, this generous donation has great significance; now the boys will track in a lot LESS dirt and mud through the house! And that is a true blessing. This also means the family dog(named Kitty) will have a plush paradise to call home. Perhaps most important, the family can enjoy the coming spring and summer days rolling in the grass, playing catch, and enjoying each other that much more at home.

If you know anyone associated with Nalco or Anadarko please give them a HUGE thank you for this thoughtful act. To all who donated and helped, your kindness is greatly appreciated.

A special thanks is needed for Doug Harding of Nalco and Chad Perry of Anadarko. Many people were involved in this venture but these two men were especially involved in organizing and making it happen. So to you two: THANK YOU!!!!!!

Dalton, Bodie, and Ashley Capozza: Today's Helping Hands (4/21)

2010-04-21T01:00:00.003-06:00

Meet 12-year-old Dalton, 6-year old Ashley, and 10-year old Bodie. Maybe you've seen them around. They live in Vernal and have parents who work in the oil industry. Last weekend they decided to set up a lemonade stand to raise some money for themselves. The boys got the stand all set up and were doing great. Then Ashley brought out some cookies to sell that she had made herself(with a little help from Grandma). When they finished up they had earned themselves a fortune, nearly $100. Makes me think I should set up a lemonade stand!!!

Well their mother Lisa heard about the fundraiser today at Covers and Camo. She linked to this blog and read about Josh and his sweet family. As she was telling her family about the Baumgartens, a decision was made, and not by Lisa. The kids said they wanted to share their money with the Baumgartens. They thought it would be a nice thing to do and so they called George at Covers and Camo, informing him they would be dropping off some money to add to his fundraising effort today.

I don't know about you but I think these are some special kids. Clearly they are being taught at a young age to open their hearts to others and serve in their own way, even if it is just sharing your lemonaide stand money. I had stopped by Covers and Camo to thank George for all he was doing and that is when this family showed up to drop off the money. They didn't plan on being recognized or having their picture taken. They just planned on dropping the money off and that was enough.

Thank you Dalton, Bodie, and Ashley for your great example to follow. I hope the rest of us can be more like you and find our own ways, big and small, to serve others in their time of need.

And remember to HONK! when you see George outside his shop. I hope you love drilling but even if you don't give him a HONK! for his kind generousity today in donating his sales to the Baumgarten family. Thanks George!!!

Sending Smiles Fundraiser Details

2010-04-20T18:00:00.001-06:00

Sending Smiles has posted the details of their online auction fundraiser for the Baumgartens. Click here to go directly to their site for ALL the information. A summary is below.

The Auction will begin Thursday, May 6 and end Saturday, May 8 at midnight. Many talented women from all over the country will be contributing handmade crafty and trendy items to be auctioned off. All you have to do is visit the Sending Smiles blog anytime from May 6 to Saturday, May 8 at midnight and see if there is anything you want to bid on. The winners will be contacted within a few days after the auction closes. All proceeds will be given to the Baumgarten family to help with medical bills and treatments. So, here's the information on how to participate:

Send an email to SmilesForStrangers@gmail.com with the following information and AUCTION as the subject:
Title of Item donating
Short description (optional)
Picture of item
Retail Value

Web Address or Link to Etsy Store or Blog Boutique (optional-- if you have a handmade business, this is a great way to receive publicity, someone who bids but doesn't win may want to know where to get one!)

*You will be responsible for postage to send the item to the highest bidder, and they will contact you with their address when the auction ends.

Dates: Emails must be sent by Monday, May 3 at midnight. This gives you 2 weeks to create the item or items.
Thank you to all who choose to participate! Get started on your handmade goodies, and definitely check back May 6th to start shopping! I know this family will appreciate our help. I can't even image the stress and heartache of watching a loved one go through this, and the least we can do is lighten the financial burden a bit!

Covers and Camo Fundraiser Today!!!

2010-04-20T14:08:00.001-06:00

Fundraiser TODAY!! Get over to Covers and Camo. 40% of all sales will go directly to the Baumgartens. You've seen the t-shirts and bumper stickers around town(if you live in Vernal and maybe elsewhere too) and you know you want some for yourself too!! Or get some to give as gifts, especially if you have some conservative friends and family. lol ;)

Nothing says Vernal pride like some I love Drilling apparal. :) So get over to their store, call in an order to George or make an order online! Support the Baumgartens while getting something fun in return.

Store location and contact Info:

www.ilovedrilling.com
510 East Main
Vernal, UT 84078
Email: george@coversandcamo.com
Phone: (801) 472-6556

Crib Bedding Now: Today's Helping Hands (4/20)

2010-04-20T05:00:00.002-06:00

Crib Bedding Now would like to donate nursery items to baby Eliza.

Just visit cribbeddingnow.com and you'll see how lucky baby Eliza will be to have anything from Crib Bedding Now. SO adorable and so much variety! Crib Bedding Now is a basin business. Owner Alaina VanLeuven shares the following on the website:

"As a mom, I was looking for crib bedding for the birth of my fourth child. This was the first time one of my babies was going to have their very own nursery room. It was hard to find the quality I wanted at a price I could afford. I'm so pleased to bring you the Trend Lab product line. They have exceptional quality at very resonable prices. Face it, there is no way you could make these bedding sets for the same price, believe me I thought about it. When I factored in the time spent and the amount of fabric I would have to buy, it just wasn't in my best interest. Not to mention all the adorable matching decor and gift sets that tie everything together."

I LOVE these crib sets and all the cute things to go with them. Take a look around their site and be sure to leave a thank you for their generous donation on the contact us page.

Thank you Alaina for your generousity and showing some love to precious Eliza!

Sending Smiles: Today's Helping Hands (4/19)

2010-04-19T18:13:00.004-06:00

Sending Smiles has pledged to organize an online auction to benefit the Baumgarten family.

This blog is absolutely amazing!! The premise of it being a group of women from all over the country who come together and find ways to help others in need. Often the people they reach out to are people they have never met, as in the case of the Baumgarten family. Here's a quote from their blog: "I feel like this is something small we can do to help lift someone's burdens. There is no profit or gain, just a sense of peace for giving and helping in someway with the talents we were blessed with. I hope to be able to touch many lives as we send our "smiles" to those in need of a little cheer and happiness!"

I have never been interested enough to actually sign up to "follow" a blog. There are plenty out there that I check on when I have the chance but this is the first one that touched me in a way that I want to know what they are doing the moment they do it!

PLEASE visit their blog and see what they are all about. You will not regret it. In fact, their example of Christlike love may even change your life.

More details are to come on their online auction. Please leave them a comment on the blog to thank them for their generousity and contribution.

Words cannot express our thanks Kristi! We can't wait to help with the auction and see what you're doing next!!

Fundraisers this week!!

2010-04-19T08:23:00.000-06:00

This Week: Alicen Taylor Independent Mary Kay Beauty consultant is donating 40% of all sales from April 18th - 24th(THIS WEEK) to the Baumgartens. Order online at www.marykay.com/ataylor24, call Alicen at 435-789-8992, text 828-8416 or email ataylor24@marykay.com. I need a few basics and will be ordering from Alicen. Get your order in today to help the Baumgartens!!

TOMORROW: Covers & Camo is donating 40% of all sales made at the store location or online on Tuesday, April 20th to the Baumgarten Family Fund. This means any seat cover sales, installation charges, as well as any apparal sales made that day will be donated to the Baumgartens. Even if you can't make it in that day, call and your sale will be included.

Store location and contact Info:
510 East Main
Vernal, UT 84078
Email: george@coversandcamo.com
Phone: (801) 472-6556

Safe Passage

2010-04-17T22:49:00.001-06:00

"If there is a design in this world in which we live, there must be a Designer. Who can behold the many wonders of the universe without believing that there is a design for all mankind? Who can doubt that there is a Designer?" President Thomas S. Monson (Conference talk April 2010)
The painting is Mary's Heart by Liz Lemon Swindle

"Like children who have lost their way, Alone and comfortless we wander. Stumbling through woods that grow deep and ever darker, With no direction, we cry for help and hear our pleas echo through the canyons. Is there anyone who can hear us? Then, like a rushing wind, a voice whispers to our heart. And through tear-filled eyes, we see an outstretched hand, there to lead us home. Though swirling streams may block our way and slippery stones betray our feet, He leads us on. He knows the way, His feet are sure, And in Him we find safe passage." Quote accompanies Greg Olsen's painting titled Be Not Afraid, featured here.

Channel X94: Generous Basin Business of the day (4/16)

2010-04-16T05:00:00.004-06:00

Channel X94 has pledged to donate the proceeds from their annual golf tournament to the Baumgarten family. The Channel X94 annual golf tournament will be held this year on May 8th at Dinaland Golf course.

So here's the deal: it is $50 to register for the golf tournament. To register call the Channel X94 office at 781-1100 or call Dinaland Golf Course at 781-1428. Because Dinaland lowered the fee (after learning about the effort to help the Baumgarten family), $7 from every registration will go in the Baumgarten fund. While the tournament is going on, there will also be an ongoing putting competition. The SINK the PINK competition will be going on throughout the day and every dollar raised will go in the Baumgarten fund.

SINK the PINK

Everyone wins in this fundraising competition. You pay $10 and get 3 chances to make a putt on the putting range. Oh and by the way, the golf balls are pink. SOOO all you have to do is SINK the PINK to win. There will be prizes and yes, they are good. What if you are like me and it would take a miracle to make a putt from a foot away?? Well, you still win because every participant will receive a SINK the PINK t-shirt, a coupon for a free 6" sub from Subway and every cent you pay will be added to the Baumgarten fund!

Every year the Hall family and X94 crew, support and participate in cancer causes like Relay for Life. This year they had already made plans to incorporate a fundraiser into the golf tournament but had not decided exactly what cause to focus on. When Subway owner Scott Giles stopped by the X94 studio on Thursday, he shared what he had learned about the Baumgarten's story and his desire to help. Charlie and the crew were onboard immediately and knew they wanted the golf tournament's fundraiser to benefit this deserving family.

Charlie and his family were literally the first people I met on my first visit to Vernal. I knew they were good people then but in the last three years I've seen them reach out, serve, love, and give back to this community over and over again. Charlie especially is a man with a big heart and I'm so grateful for his support now in joining all of us who love the Baumgarten family. Though I've just recently interacted with Scott Giles of Subway, he has amazed me with his sincere desire to help in a big way. They are planning for great fun, great food, and great prizes for everyone who participates in the golf tournament and events leading up to it.

So please make an opportunity to thank them for all they are doing to make this a success. Visit the X94 website and give them a call, text, or email and say THANKS!!!

Thank you Charlie and the X94 family for your generousity, all you are doing and all you will do to for this wonderful family.

Subway: Generous Basin Business of the day (4/15)

2010-04-15T07:00:00.000-06:00

Subway has pledged to help organize, advertise for, and contribute to an upcoming fundraiser for the Baumgarten family. We'll update you with details as plans are made.

My family has always loved Subway. When we moved to Vernal we were relieved to see the Walmart had a Subway rather than a different restaurant that we were used to. If you are like me, you have a Subway card(or 2 or 3 of them). Visit their website to see their latest promotion for a free 6" sub. Definitely worth the visit!!

Next time you are in Subway please be sure to thank them for their contribution to the Baumgarten family.

Thank you Scott and the Subway crew for your generousity, caring, and yummy sandwiches!

Mary Kay Cosmetics Alicen Taylor: Generous Basin Business of the day (4/14)

2010-04-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

Alicen Taylor Independent Mary Kay Beauty consultant will donate 40% of all sales from April 18th - 24th. Order online at www.marykay.com/ataylor24, call Alicen at 435-789-8992, text 828-8416 or email ataylor24@marykay.com.

Okay ladies and gentlemen, we ALL use hair, skin, and beauty products. If you are like me it's easy to just pick these things up while getting groceries or household items at other stores; but here is a chance to purchase things you already buy but that will also benefit a local family. Mary Kay products are excellent quality and very affordable!! Even if you just need a new tube of mascara or some face lotion, nearly half of what you pay will go to the Baumgartens. Please visit the website and see for yourself the excellent products available from Mary Kay. They also make great gifts. I received a lotion/body spray/body wash pack as a Christmas gift and have absolutely loved it!! Visit the website and I promise you will not be disappointed.

If you place an order or know Alicen, please thank her for what she is doing. She is essentially donating her income for those days.

Thank you Alicen for your generousity and willingness to give!

SOOO Many Thanks!!

2010-04-13T19:14:00.000-06:00

What an overwhelming response when a baby is in need of a soft, safe place to sleep. I know there were many generous offers and every single one was so very appreciated. Some of Kristen's wonderful family members are getting a crib for baby Eliza.

We have such a giving and kind community and we want to thank you all for caring about the Baumgarten family and finding your own ways to show it.

I was thinking about baby Eliza and the fact that many people have asked what they can do or what the Baumgarten family needs. I, myself, have a baby and it donned on me. One thing is for sure, they will be needing diapers and the usual baby supplies.

One of my favorite gifts I received when I had my baby was a "diaper cake" - sound crazy??!?!? It is! But they are also so cute!! And I'm pretty sure it was made up of diapers that Sha's baby had grown too big to use - even better! So this may sound odd to anyone who is out of the 10 diapers-to-change-a-day phase of life but to those of you who are right there with me maybe you have some diapers that weren't used and will no longer fit your little tyke. If so, you could try your hand at a diaper cake for baby Eliza ;) Of course, there is no need to make a show of it; after all it will just end up with poop in it. So if you have wanted to know what might help, here is a simple suggestion; maybe some diapers. :)

p.s. I think it has been a little confusing that many of the posts on here are from a Kristin B. I am Kristin Baldwin not to be confused with Kristen Baumgarten. While the blog would greatly benefit from her writing skills versus mine, the requests for help, like this one about diapers, are actually coming from KristIn, not KristEn. Hopefully you'll hear from KristEn plenty too with updates on how things are going. Also, I will add that I know Kristen greatly appreciates everyone for their love and support. Thanks everyone and sorry for the confusion!

Covers and Camo: Generous Basin Business of the Day (4/13)

2010-04-12T15:36:00.000-06:00

Covers & Camo would like to pledge 40% of all sales made at the store location or online on Tuesday, April 20th to the Baumgarten Family Fund. This means any seat cover sales, installation charges, as well as any apparal sales made that day will be donated to the Baumgartens. Even if you can't make it in that day, call and your sale will be included.

Store location and contact Info:

510 East Main

Vernal, UT 84078

Email: george@coversandcamo.com

Phone: (801) 472-6556

Please visit the Covers and Camo website as well as the apparal website http://www.ilovedrilling.com/ to learn more about this quality business. If you visit George in his store, please thank him for his contribution.

Thank you George for you generousity and concern for the Baumgarten family!

Crib

2010-04-12T14:07:00.000-06:00

Baby Eliza will be arriving pretty soon, approximately 5 weeks, and she doesn't have a crib! The old one broke, and come to find out was on recall. If anyone knows of a a gently used crib or a new one (we wouldn't complain), please let me know.;) Thank you so much!

Sha (Kristen's other friend) mnielson2@yahoo.com or 435-789-6798

VernalHomeFinder.com: Generous Basin Business of the day (4/12)

2010-04-12T08:45:00.000-06:00

VernalHomeFinder.com would like to donate $500 to the Baumgartens for every home sold between now and June 01, 2010.

Click here to visit the VernalHomeFinder website. They are an area leader for housing in Vernal, Utah. They also serve the Roosevelt, Utah and Duchesne, Utah real estate market and are a preferred Vernal Utah Realtor company. If you get the chance, thank them for their donation and kindness.

Thank you Kyle and the VernalHomeFinder.com team for your generous donation!

Couldn't you just break your neck?

2010-04-11T00:09:00.000-06:00

(Contributed by Kristen Baumgarten and posted with her permission)

So, here goes. It might be long.

I am not even sure I will actually publish this. Maybe I will just type it out and forget it. I haven't been able to sit down and actually get it out. It's too hard. Too real. Too close to the surface to actually tell it publicly or semi-publicly. While I am almost 34 weeks pregnant and would probably never like a picture of myself, I love this picture of Josh. (Thanks Mindy, for being so generous and flexible with your time and for taking these pictures).

Many of you probably already know the situation, but in case you don't, or in case you've heard it from someone two or three or eight people down the line... here it is.

Because of a snowmobile accident in December, we assumed the symptoms Josh began experiencing in January were a result of injury. I still remember giggling to myself when Josh came home from a church basketball game complaining that his "game" was off. Seriously? If I had only known.

The fine motor function in the right side of his body continued to decline beginning in his hand and arm and progressing to his leg and foot. When he finally decided that it wasn't all "in his head" he made an appointment with a chiropractor who eventually referred him to another doctor.

After considering all the possibilities and researching online, we were convinced that he may have a C6 spinal fracture. Honestly, the website that Josh found was like a checklist for all his symptoms. Without mentioning his oh-so-intelligent internet findings to the doctor, the doctor came up with the same conclusion.
I was relieved. I honestly thought to myself, "Phew, he just broke his neck." I was horrified by the other alternatives. And a broken neck was something that could be fixed. A little surgery, a few screws to keep his head on his shoulders. NO BIG DEAL. Totally acceptable problem. (Ok, so I am not trying to minimize a spinal fracture. I am simply saying that compared to the other alternatives it was something I could handle.)

The initial MRI of his neck showed that his neck was great. No breaks. No fractures. No pinched nerves. Hmph! We were wrong and so it was time to do some more looking. The doctor ordered another MRI of his brain to just make sure there wasn't anything neurological.

After the MRI Josh made his way to work when he got a phone call to turn around and go right back to the hospital. The doctors wanted to talk to him. He couldn't get a hold of me and then realized he couldn't tell me he had to go back to the hospital. Somewhere in the process he texted me that it might be a stroke. My sweet, always-there-for-you dad met him at the hospital to find out it wasn't that either.

My sweet, always-there-for-you mom and sister met me at my house. Shortly after, my dad and Josh made it home. Josh hesitated and then told me that it was a tumor, but the nature was unknown so we would need to go see a neurosurgeon in Salt Lake. Our appointment was Monday morning. It was only Friday (March 26). We would have to wait all weekend long. All the agonizing weekend long. Too much time to think about the possibilities. Too many sleepless hours to just think and wonder and try to prepare for whatever the outcome might be.

We went to the temple. We found peace. We knew that whatever would happen would be the Lord's will and that He would make it alright.

Monday's first appointment was discouraging. I am pretty sure that if I ever see that doctor again, I might slip and while I am falling, my fist might find it's way into his nose. The one good thing was that he referred us to Dr. Randy Jensen at the Huntsman Center. It was a miracle that we were able to see Dr. Jensen, as it was his day off and out-of-clinic. A tender mercy.

Dr. Jensen was a lot more optimistic and scheduled another MRI for Thursday (April 1) and surgery Friday (April 2). The MRI included a processes called mapping. They basically make a picture of the brain that is so incredibly accurate that the doctor knows EXACTLY what the brain will look like before they even make an incision. The mapping is then used throughout the surgery with electronic nodes that send signals from the brain to extremities and vice versa. That way, damage is minimized if not completely eliminated.

Using this process, they were able to learn that the tumor was deeply integrated into the brain tissue and were only able to extract a small portion of the tumor. It's purpose would serve as a sample for the pathologist. While they were able to come up with preliminary results, Dr. Jensen assured us that we should not be overly anxious and should wait for the final results. More waiting. This time from Friday (April 1st) to Wednesday (April 7). This time Josh would be trying to recover and heal from surgery.

He received TLC from the Neuro Critical Care Unit and physical therapy and then from the Neuro Acute Care Unit.

Determined and strong, my sweetheart stayed positive, in good humor, and close to the Lord. Surprisingly enough, they decided to discharge him Sunday morning. Easter morning. They said he was doing so well there was no use waiting for test results in a hospital bed. The rest of his recovery could be done at home! We missed our boys. We were glad to come home. Glad to see them and get our loves and kisses from each of them. (Even if Aunt Emily is more fun than Mom or Dad).

Wednesday was the day the pathologist would have the final results. The tumor board would meet to discuss the results and best course of action. We hoped we wouldn't have to wait any longer to hear.

The initial tests were confirmed. Cancer. Aggressive cancer. Silver lining? It is brain cancer, which means it is isolated to the brain and didn't originate from another source. Still, it is a high-grade, aggressive cancer that has to be treated right away.

I knew it. Somehow I knew it. I keep thinking about how I wish he could have just broken his neck. How it would be so much easier to deal with, it seems like such a more simple fix. Easier than cancer. Easier than facing what I have feared most. Easier than trying to be brave and happy when I really just want to wake up and everything will be back to normal.

So, taking it one step at a time, we had to wait again to hear from the oncologist that would be over radiation treatments. Fortunately, they called Thursday morning. Unfortunately, our first meeting/consultation won't be until he returns from vacation.

SOOO... until April 21st we are on hold. At least Josh has some time to heal from surgery and we have time to spend with the boys. There, I did it. I got it out.

Now seems like a good time to mention that we have been incredibly humbled and overwhelmed by the love and support of the angels that literally live among us. So many phone calls, kind gestures, prayers, acts of service... every time we turn around there is someone waiting to show us their support. Tender mercies. Answers to prayers. Those who are willing to "lift up the hands which hang down" (See D&C 81:5, one of my favorites) It is more than humbling to be on the receiving end of so much LOVE. Josh keeps reminding me that this is what people are like. This is their nature. People are good, and kind and loving and want to help where they can. How can we ever express our appreciation and gratitude to so much support? We know what we can do will never be enough. We can only pray that the tender mercies we have been shown will be there someday down the road for each one of the angels who surround us everyday. We pray that we can be the ones who "lift up the hands which hang down, and strengthen the feeble knees." In the meantime, thank you. Thank you for recognizing what a good man Josh is. Thank you for recognizing his testimony, his strength, loyalty, work ethic, faith and so much more.

Sweet Reflections Photography: Basin Business of the day (4/10)

2010-04-09T21:27:00.000-06:00

Sweet Reflections Photography by Kari Morris has pledged a free 16" x 20" family photo to Josh and his family. Please visit her website to admire her amazing work. I promise you'll be impressed!

Thank you Kari for your generousity and caring about this family and our community.

Melinda Smith Photography: Basin Business of the day (4/9)

2010-04-09T17:36:00.000-06:00

Melinda Smith Photography has pledged to hold a fundraiser for Josh and his family. All proceeds will be donated to the Baumgarten Family Fund.

Okay everyone! Here is an excellent way for you to help the Baumgarten family while getting something high quality and a family essential in return. Melinda Smith will be having a marathon of mini photography sessions Saturday April 24th. You will get a professional photography session and you will receive a disc with your professionally edited images. Every penny of the price you will pay will go to the Baumgarten Family Fund. She is worth every penny of her normal fees but for this event she's giving a killer deal for her professional work.

Here's what you'll get:

$30 package: 5 images on a disc, professionally edited/high resolution. Print copyright released.
$50 package: 10 images on a disc, professionally edited/high resolution. Print copyright released.
$100 package: 25 images on a disc, professionally edited/high resolution. Print copyright released.

You'll only need to click here to visit Melinda's photography website to know this is an opportunity for you! Melinda will be booking as many sessions as possible on that day but the slots are sure to fill up quickly. If you are interested call Melinda now at 435-781-1515 or email bmatcsmith@gmail.com. If you don't reach her directly leave the following information: your name, phone number and email address if available, and type of session you are interested in(example family photo shoot, senior picture, newborn baby shots, etc).

Sessions are sure to fill up quickly so save your spot today. Thank you Melinda for your generousity and helping the Baumgarten family!

Calling all Basin Businesses

2010-04-08T23:26:00.000-06:00

The Basin. The people of the Basin. The businesses of the Basin. The statues of dinosaurs in the Basin. All are unique and some in that borderline quirky way; note the beloved T-Rex eating his watermelon and wearing his Huck Finn hat.

What makes the businesses of the Basin unique, however, is their unmatched GENEROUSITY. I have never lived in a place where customers are often treated more like family than pocketbooks. Already on this blog we've had several local businesses donate and pledge items to the Baumgarten Family Fund.

SO, starting tomorrow, we will be highlighting a Generous Business of the day. This will be a Basin business who has made a pledge to the Baumgarten Family Fund. We want to celebrate all the love and generousity this community shares and is now showing the Baumgarten family.

So check tomorrow for the first Generous Business of the day. Trust me: you won't want to miss the action!! I hope we truly can make it a daily post.

If you are a business owner or know a business owner who'd like to make a pledge please visit our Make a Pledge page. You could also call(435-823-3946) or email(kristinscof@hotmail.com) for more information. If your business has a website please include it so we can add it to the Generous Business Link List on the sidebar of the blog.

Thank you, everyone reading and following this blog, for thinking of this family and caring about our community!

Good looking family without a doubt!

2010-04-06T23:05:00.000-06:00

So I didn't have a chance to ask Kristen or Josh if I could put this pic up but I just couldn't wait for an answer. Just LOOK at this cute family. Sure Josh and Kristen look nice but I don't think I"ve ever seen Kristen in a picture or in person when she wasn't a hot mama and we all know the hubby(sorry Josh) just needs to be looking at the camera for it to count as great. Let's be honest, any smiles are just a bonus. What I love about this picture are the boys. When I say "the boys" I literally mean it as a name or title. To my 3 year old daughter and her cute little posse of girlfriends these three are daily referred to as "the boys" - as if no other boys exist. These three boys are heartbreakers in their own right, not to mention a joy to be around. If you can't tell, they adore their mom and dad. In fact, not counting Harry Potter or Optimus Prime I know there is noone they would rather be someday than their dad. I'm not just saying that either. On one occasion about a year or two ago, Kimball talked my ear off about how cool his dad is and how he can run like Iron Man. Now how can you argue with that??

At one time or another we ALL need a helping hand

2010-03-31T21:24:00.001-06:00

Anyone who knows Josh Baumgarten knows that he is a dad first.
He learned on March 26th that he has a brain tumor.
This blog was created by friends of both Josh and his wife Kristen as a support network.
We also hope to raise money to help with the stress of mounting medical bills.
We want their focus to be on Josh's recovery and excitement for baby Eliza's arrival.
Please explore this blog to learn how you can help and join with us in supporting this wonderful family!

To learn more about Josh's condition visit the Updates page.
The Message Board is where all comments and messages will be posted. To leave a message simply click here or on the comments link at the end of this post or any post on the home page and follow directions. Anyone can leave a message and we ask that you don't hesitate to do so. Every show of support is appreciated! Email kristinscof@hotmail.com for any questions or complications. Messages are not automatically posted so if you want the message to remain private simply write private before you begin your message. This way it will be sent to Josh and his family without being posted publically on this message board.

Two accounts have been set up as a way to make donations to the Baumgartens. One is located at Mountain America Credit Union and the other at Wells Fargo. For information on how to mail, drop off, or otherwise contribute to these accounts please visit the How to help? page. This page also shares alternative suggestions on how to help. Those who donate are welcome to have their donation recorded on the Make a Pledge page.

The Make a Pledge page is a place for us to celebrate the generousity and service shown the Baumgarten family. You can pledge anything you like. Here's some ideas:
   1. Donate an amount however great or small to the Baumgarten family fund. You can include your name or remain anonymous. You can include the amount or leave that out. Also feel free to personalize a message for Josh and his family!
   2. Organize a fundraiser. This could be a bake sale, silent auction, lemon-aide stand, walk-a-thon, or any idea you have! The sky is the limit and any amount donated to the Baumgartens as a result is so appreciated!!!
   3. Mail something. Could be a homemade card, giftcard to a store, something for the kids, or some cookies. Anything! These will be given directly to the Baumgarten family, unopened.
   4. Attend fundraising events that are organized. You'll be able to learn what events are coming up by checking the calender.
   5. Send your love, support, and prayers! Write a message on the message board.

Typically a pledge would be worded like one of the following examples:
   Example 1. The Snow family pledges to organize a bake sale for Josh and his family. We love, hope and pray for you all! Love, Joe, Shannon, and Cari.
   Example 2. Acme Contracters pledges $100 for Josh and his family. God bless.
   Example 3. Anonymous pledges a walmart giftcard for Josh and his family. I hope this giftcard can help with diapers or whatever else you may need for baby Eliza. Love and thanks for all you have done!

These examples would be posted in two places. The pledge would be posted on the Make a Pledge page and the message would be posted on the Message Board. Once you have made a pledge simply follow through by delivering your donation, organizing your fundraiser, or mailing your gift to the address provided on the How to help? page. If you decide to organize a fundraiser let us know the details so the information can be posted on the Fundraisers page. If you need help we can put a message on the message board asking for volunteers and/or help or call 435-823-3946.