it's a wonderful life

Celebrating our independence!

2011-07-05T17:10:00.001-06:00

Shocking, I know, but here's a little tease making you think I'm back again... Don't get too excited! :)

The fourth wknd seemed to be filled with fun filled activities: a waterpark; Mexican food; boating; fireworks; movie at home; church; walks around the hood; BBQ at a friends; another movie; taking my little sis to carnival games; lunch BBQ; tennis; 4 fourth BBQ dinners (don't worry... Only ate at one) and more fireworks then followed by our own fireworks!

I'm grateful for this country and the freedoms we have to be able to enjoy life and live it to it's fullest. I'm happy I was able to celebrate with fun loving friends. I didn't have my camera, but here our a few shots I do have! God bless America!

Grateful for health!

2011-03-07T22:24:00.003-07:00

So it's obviously been a while, and even longer since I've gotten pics off my camera. When I came upon this photo from Christmas Eve, I couldn't help but post it in gratitude for health. Working where I do, I'm constantly reminded of the gift of life and how precious it is. Work is one thing and then when it hits in your own home, it adds another element. I've counted my blessings a lot recently.

Heritage

2011-01-10T17:28:00.001-07:00

I'm grateful for my heritage and the legacy they have left to follow. As I hung these pictures (given at Christmas by my parents as per my request for pics of the grandparents) I thought of the amazing qualities each person had.

My parents and grandparents are inspirational. How lucky I am to be blessed by their unconditional love, hard work, faith, devotion and charity.

As another season is near to close...

2010-11-27T20:17:00.005-07:00

Starting off... not frozen!

2nd half warmth! Thank goodness for hot chocolate!

frozen victory!

Utes struggled in the beginning, but made big plays when they needed to and came through to victory. Yeah for the "W"!

Rock on...

2010-11-16T20:15:00.001-07:00

One thing that always brings happiness to me are smaller venue concerts. If the performer is the size of an ant, I'd rather just listen to their cd, unless it's outside in a relaxing park, in the warmer months.

I was able to join some besties last night where we were able to rock out to Lifehouse and their openers- Alyssa Bernal and Kris Allen (from an American idol I didn't watch, but for those who were curious! As always, Lifehouse put on an amazing show.

Kris Allen

Kris Allen bandie

Jason Wade- lifehouse

I will be deaf from this happiness one day, but it's worth it... I hope!

breakfast cereals

2010-11-05T00:22:00.003-06:00

My department at work decided to be breakfast cereals... we won 1st place for the group contest! what's cereal w/o a spoon, cptn crunch, snap, crackle, and pop, milk, honey bees, cinnamon toast crunch chef, trix rabbit, toucan sam, and wheaties!2 of my best buddies. yes... i put the costume together... i did not buy it already made.

Had to add this! A guy in my department decided to be the cowboy for the the crazy painted horse that sits outside of work. I loved it. Made me laugh all day. We had to get some pics with him and his horse!

supporting my roots

2010-11-05T00:16:00.003-06:00

I'm so glad when the suns are in town, glad as I can be! It's hard to pass up an opportunity to see my boys when they are in town, so my buddy Sean and I geared up and went to the jazz home opener... suns went home with the W. Wahoo!

rainy days

2010-11-05T00:05:00.004-06:00

it had been a while since j and i took off for a small adventure. one sunday evening, we headed up the rainy canyon to enjoy the ride, company, weather, and beauty around us... and why not finish off the adventure with drenching oneself!

Fall

2010-10-24T12:43:00.001-06:00

One reason I love fall besides the leaves, ciders, pumpkin everything, spirit of change in the air, festive parties, etc. is football! I took along my sweet friend Ashlee and we endured the constant rain and cold as we cheered on my utes. I love great weather games, yet fun to spice it up with a little craziness!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Take me out to the soccer game

2010-10-19T22:36:00.001-06:00

It's been great getting to know my lil Sis from big bros big Sis. She's such a delight. Since I don't have lil tikes of my own, it's been fun to have her around in life and have someone to "care" for. Hard to explain, but it's been great so far and I'm looking forward to good times ahead. This weekend we went to the Real soccer game. We had a great time. She consumed a whole bag, yep whole bag of cotton candy plus some of a snowcone. Big sisters can let that go, right?!

Surprises in the day

2010-10-19T11:28:00.001-06:00

Brighten the mood in every way! :) I was greeted by these little goodies when I got in to work. What fun! Next up... Paying it forward! Who's day are you going to make a little brighter today?

Meet William

2010-10-18T15:51:00.001-06:00

Lil' "will" as I call him, born to my Sis Melanie and her hubbie oct. 11. Can't wait to meet him in person.

Greetings

2010-10-06T16:25:00.001-06:00

My lovely sister greeted me at the door with her delicious homeade filled cupcakes. I'm thinking I'll wipe out of my memory how many were consumed over the weekend. On down to my room was my traditional birthday balloon awaiting my arrival with my favorite swedish fish attached at the bottom from my mom. Deliousness was consumed the following afternoon as the fan headed to famous daves for my birthdy lunch. Thanks for the warm welcome and making me feel special on my day!

Celebrate

2010-10-01T07:46:00.001-06:00

Today I am celebrating the blessing of amazing people in my life. Thank you for always being there for me.

I came home to a nice surprise last night. Pedals leading from the door into my decorated room. You lovely ladies know how to make a girl feel special and make her day. Thank you!

once in a while

2010-09-27T23:40:00.006-06:00

you need a break, right? but, here is a new post! i'm not going to play catch up, as a lot has been missed, but maybe you can figure out some missing pieces along the way!

This last weekend I had the opportunity of going to Boston for a conference I applied to go to on my own free will. It went along with my profession of child life. The conference was amazing and well worth the whirlwind trip. I left slc Friday at 730pm and made it to Boston at 5am. I got ready for the day at the awesome airport facilities, then stepped foot outside to capture Boston in it's wee hours as I had until 9am when the conference began. I think I was the bums alarm clock! I took many pics along the way, but those are on my camera... you'll have to enjoy my few phone pics.

I love Boston's richness in history. I walked by the graveyard where many politicians are laid to rest. It was crazy to see people such as Paul Revere and John Hancock to name a few whose names were engraved upon the headstones. I saw the house of where the Boston Tea Party was held. There were so many buildings with rich meaning and I enjoyed reading the explanations and all that had gone on as I walked along the freedom trail that day. You can't leave the Boston Red Sox out of history! :) After my galavanting along the freedom trail, I made headway to Fenway Park to see the holy giant. Following that my free time was spent and off I went to the amazing conference of life is good playmakers. It focused on how to implement playfulness and joy in the lives of children who have experienced trauma and/or illness of any sort. If only everyone could attend a conference like that... the world would be a better place. Here's to me attempting to make a dent in it!

I was back on the plane Sunday at 5pm and in slc at 930pm. Loved it and can not wait for AZ next weekend... high school reunion here I come!

a peek at the 4th weekend

2010-07-06T23:49:00.007-06:00

Yeah for family being in town on a holiday! My sister Melanie and her clan were in Bountiful for a few days with her in-laws before they headed out with them to Bear Lake. I was able to snag some time with them before they took off.what's a 4th without a little parade... Annabelle loved it. I don't know how she didn't get clobbered with all the other kids charging for free candy... salt water taffy= apparently the cheapest candy out there because that's pretty much all there was!sistas!... In case you couldn't tell!we also stopped by the cemetary to pay a visit to Joshua, my nephew's grave. He is Caleb's twin. It was nice and tender to be there with the family. After the parade in Centerville, I headed to the pool with my friend Ashlee. We cleaned ourselves up and met up with others for a nice quaint dinner with more friends at Normandie's in Holladay. Following our 4 course meal, we headed to my house to get front row seats to the Holladay fireworks. It was the perfect location. We sat on my balcony and the fireworks were shot off in the field right across the street from me. We had purchased some sparklers that they called "color sparklers" at the stand... stay away! These things are explosive! I have quite a nice burn which people at work today even asked me what it was... not to mention a few added layers in my hair from it being singed off due to another particular flying off said sparklers... sketch!

Jess and I cooked up some dinner for Melanie and family on the actual 4th. It was Annabelle's birthday on the 2nd, so my dessert was a birthday cake for her.

creative james.

It's true... I'm horrible at blogging!

2010-06-29T12:25:00.001-06:00

So how about I cheat and have you look at my friends posts to see what I've been up to! :) its just a game of catch up! like:

http://jessa-ann.blogspot.com/2010/06/give-me-open-road-wind-in-my-hair.html

http://jessa-ann.blogspot.com/2010/06/one-saturday-afternoon.html

http://tyandlyndsgardner.blogspot.com/2010/06/tylers-birthday-bash.html

http://tyandlyndsgardner.blogspot.com/2010/06/memorable-memorial-day.html

http://brittnjacob.blogspot.com/2010/05/cinco-de-mayo.html

I promise promise promise the next one will be my own and so exciting!!! Thanks j, Britt and Lynds for your hard work on my blog today! Hahaha...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Dear Dad,

2010-06-20T01:41:00.002-06:00

I can't even begin to express the amazing man that you are. The never ending care you provide for our family is remarkable. You're first priority has always been to make sure everyone else has been taken care of. You are very detail oriented, never missing a beat of what your family needs and the steps necessary to complete them. You're certainly one of the hardest workers I know... truly. Whether it is family needs, work, scouting, church callings, rotary- you put forth your full effort and somehow manage to keep life all balanced out... not quite sure how you do it! I do one thing and I feel like life is crazy! It's very admirable of you. You've been an example of finances, living within your means, secular and spiritual education, dedication, and passion. I really can't recall you speaking an ill word of anyone and you're always willing to serve others around you.

Most importantly dad, you've been an example of how to love and keep loving, serving our loving Heavenly Father and being worthy of his blessings, honoring your priesthood, loving your family, speaking kindly, and staying focused on the main goal of eternal life.

Thank you. Thank you to you and mom for the constant love you send my way. Thank you, for all that you have done for me- you've set the bar pretty high for the types of guys I date (maybe that's the reason I don't date?).

You're amazing... never forget it. I miss you.

Love,
Kris

Since Spain...

2010-06-13T22:41:00.003-06:00

I have kept very busy. I have yet to find a weekend where I haven't been out of town.

I got in, went to Eden a few days later for Memorial Day Weekend. Went shooting for the first time in my life! Went to hang with a bestie (who else but my holiday buddy!) in Ptown where we went to a friend's BBQ for lunch, followed by a BBQ I held for dinner.

Logan was the next weekend where Mel, Kirk and I hit up some delish Mexi food, went to a farmer's market, a cheese factory to seek out some squeeky cheese, getting their garden ready... ok, so I took the passive approach on that one, but not intentionally! When my body wants to sleep it wants to sleep! J came up to get a break from Ptown and so we all went and got pizza, did church and then BBQ up a delicious dinner.

This past week, I've been in AZ for a Child Life conference for work. I was able to get in some family time, along with many enriching classes that have re-energized me and have given me some new ideas to apply in the coming weeks. Lucky for me, it was in AZ so I got to see the fam, save on hotel costs, and have a mix of work and the fam. What fun!

Some pics from the eventful past: bbq at my pad

j and i's excursion to provo lake

j in the sunset

first time shooter!

i wouldn't be too scared of this crew...

{more pics to come... ok, hopefully! We all know how good I am at getting around to it! Maybe you'll get another link to a web album! :) }

Alright... some none foggies

2010-06-13T22:23:00.002-06:00

For those of you that would like to see some non-foggy pictures of spain, and haven't seen them all already, follow this link-

http://picasaweb.google.com/ktarh2o/WhereSSalida?feat=directlink

and find an overload of unedited, unorganized pictures... sound enticing?

I had great plans of putting together some pics for the blog, but since their aren't friends taking siestas and me blogging for something to do while they were doing so, I haven't quite found the time since so put some non-foggy, taken on my phone camera of the real camera's display screen... enjoy!

The enchantment of Segovia

2010-05-23T16:39:00.001-06:00

Segovia is a beautiful city, filled with amazing architecture, castles, tradition, shops, and once again... Food!

The alcazar castle and aqueduct were breathtaking, along with other historic buildings. We went in the castle to see it's inner charm as well.

I love barcelona, but it is so packed with people that i feel it drowns out being able to notice their culture. Culture and tradition intrigue me as I can sit for hours just enjoying all that's going on around me.

In Segovia, siesta was definitely in full force as most shops were closed down for a good part of the day. As we ate our dinner, (we had to wait until 8 for them to start serving it) we were the only ones around eating a meal. I felt the whole town was out socializing one with another, sitting for hours on end drinking and eating their tapas. Segovia is a very classy town. Everyone out was looking very sharp.

Paella redeemed itself as I was served an amazing mixture of seafood and meats on top of the rice. The dish we had in Barcelona tasted like rice-a-roni with little seafood on it, yet this surpassed that... Now I see why people like it. I'm glad I gave it another try!

... Madrid tomorrow! Churro place San gines... Yes please!... And church while we're at it. :)

It's tomorrow and I'm going to bed but I'll update u on Madrid when I get back to the states probably!!! :)

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Segovia Spain

The end of Barcelona

2010-05-22T02:12:00.001-06:00

Last night, we hit up a club to enjoy the night life in Spain. Kind of crazy... Spanairds don't even start getting to the clubs until 2/3 in the morning and rock the night away until 6/7 in the am! Most are free until 2 as that's the popular time to go. Is that why they invented siestas?!!

We rolled in about 1 and stayed until about 430. It was a great time. Sad though- we got to the hotel to find Brent had either lost his ID & credit card or had it pick pocketed... Not sure. So we went back to the clubs we had been to and no luck. :( went to bed about 6 and had to check out by noon so it was a run on little sleep day... Not suggested by those grouchily impaired by having little sleep! :)

we walked through a lot of shopping areas and then headed over to gaudi's park. Wow... That place is amazing. It's incredible of all he did and yet he went bankrupt. So sad. His work is amazing. The park is quite a hike up a hill, but it's well worth it.

We then found a quaint restaurant and ate a pleasant dinner. Meals in Spain, at least Barcelona, are traditionally served first with bread, then your choice of 2 entrees, followed by dessert, all for about 6-10 euro.

This dish above was my favorite- caneloni or something?...
Course 2 was meatballs with squid.

And yummy flan for dessert... Not a flan lover usually, but this was delicious!

The others needed an Internet cafe, so I roamed around a nearby grocery store... Weird I know, but I find foreign grocery stores very intriguing!

Tonight we went to a "magical fountain" show that was gorgeous! A man would have been nice to have there... Maybe someday I can take one back!

I absolutely loved Barcelona. It was a very pretty, clean city. They are out every night spraying down the sidewalks and you see street sweepers all throughout the day. A few creepers way late at night... But that's what Brent is for! :)

So since I wrote this... We've since taken an overnight bus to Madrid to take a short train ride to Segovia for the day. While waiting for the train, we had a little of this:

See you in Segovia!

I'll try to be good and post some clear pics that aren't taken from phone, off a screen of a camera when I get back.. We'll see!

Espana style!

2010-05-20T11:41:00.001-06:00

The flamencos!

Those spanairds totally wanted me... Too bad! Ha.

Going for a dip in the Mediterranean!

A little recap from our futbol game last night!

Doing what we do best.

Cruising the streets

Time to eat! We at a really nostalgic bar. Loved the ambience.

The traditional pealla!

Giving him the time of his life...

(the pics are all blurry because I didn't want to take my phone to the beach so I took pics off the screen of my camera!)

Barcelona

2010-05-19T17:12:00.001-06:00

A little glimpse into the first few days of vaca-

A little bit of my old stopping grounds in NYC... Then off to Barcelona!

It's been a fun filled day. Jumped off the airplane; found our hotel; found and went on our bike tour that took us to all of the highlights of barcelona; ate some lunch... Don't know what one of my courses was but I ate it anyway; then after seeing so many soccer fans chanting about the city, we decided finding and getting into the game was a must! Definitely a highlight! US sports dont even come close to that intensity that lasts the whole game!

Food and bikes are on my camera, not my phone, so those may come later...

You better believe-

2010-05-17T17:05:00.000-06:00

I had my first lesson with fondant and loved it! The color scheme, wouldn't have been my choice, but all in all, it was great. It was just for fun to learn something new and then we had it for dessert the following day where we got together for lunch with friends.

lately I have...

2010-05-12T22:32:00.005-06:00

- enjoyed a lot of family time, as my bro graduated so I spent a lot of his last ptown days w/ him, as well as my fam coming in to town for his graduation!lots of food w/ the fam- pictured- Red Iguana- the AZ'ins gave it the stamp of approval; stopped at about every dessert place possible- we are a sweet tooth family; Italian restaurants- Gloria's and a pizza place; Guru's for a delightful breakfast... and sadly I'm sure there is more!

why is it not clear? oh cause it decided to snow on our y mountain hike... yeah shortsy girl's legs were a little numb and bright red- she took the hottest possible shower after.
who do you represent?
das familia
brother- I missed you the second you left.

I have also...

- received a few threats that if I didn't post, I'd be removed from their blog lists. Uh oh! You can thank them cause without them, this wouldn't be here.

- majorly taken a break from the blogging world- viewing and needless to say, posting.

- been planning a trip to Spain which has taken up a lot of time (I leave next week).

- MADE and TAKEN and EATEN my lunch to work for 2 straight months. Only cheated 1x- Cinco deMayo with the co-workers. Considering I used to buy my lunch EVERY day, this is a huge accomplishment! Be proud cause I obviously am!

- gone through an extremely growing time. I've comtemplated a lot, and have once again risen up for the time being.

- continued to exercise much patience as I wait for a few necessities (according to me :) )to come along in life.

and there you have it!

Why? Well for Easter of course!

2010-04-05T21:38:00.003-06:00

J and I are definitely adoptive fams to each other. We partied it up on Easter and had a great time.

A nice Sunday drive after conference turned adventurous as we decided to get out and take some pics... how much more perfect can you get with little bunny foo foo hopping the the forrest on Easter! After it all, I had a very wet bum, legs, back, etc... luckily for Jess having scrubs in her trunk, my car ride home wasn't miserable! {Maybe we had to take a lot of pictures so that we got just the right one} Happy Be-lated Easter!

Co-lon-os-co-py

2010-04-05T20:38:00.005-06:00

It was no April fooling when the first rolled around and it was time to get the all amazing colonoscopy. Yipee! Made even harder when my great co-worker left this deliciousness on my desk first thing in the morning the day before. For those of you that don't know, the day before is what they call the clense, where instead, you get to have this:

Clears all day. I have never had plain chicken broth and I never will again.

Then you get to drink this the evening before. You may hit up the bathroom once and think that wasn't that bad!... Then it hits you at midnight like a ton of bricks. Sick... guess you aren't sleeping that night. As if that's not bad enough, you have to drink another full jug of the syrupie nastiness at 4am... much harder to do at 4am than 5pm.

The best part, getting the sleepy medicine. Zonked completely out for what felt like hours, but really only minutes. Woke up to my sweet friend Heidi's voice. I was wide awake and feeling good. Didn't feel a single thing and it didn't feel like a single thing was done to me. On the way home, we stopped at Paradise Cafe... mmm. No more liquid.

Oh... and all results aren't back yet. So far, nothing major. If there's something wrong, you'll probably find out about it one way or the other. If you don't hear anything, no news is good news! :)

Dearest...

2010-03-30T21:05:00.009-06:00

random act of love- thanks for brightening my day when I looked down and saw I had eaten my sandwich into a lovely heart and then looked at its matching coke.

mom and dad- thank you for this bundle of a surprise. I love it. Yet, I love you and your thoughfulness more. Happy Easter.

mister rich man- if you have money to spare, would you please leave my dream for me on my driveway? And friends... if you ever buy my dream, don't let me see it... I would be real jealous... but then I'd get over it... eventually.

examples

2010-03-12T01:12:00.005-07:00

I've been lucky to have such wonderful examples in my life. I'm surrounded by amazing friends and family that have taught me so much. Lifted me up, sometimes even dragged me through the tough times, just so I could pull through and make it. I thank you all for that. If you are reading this, and you actually know me, I am talking to YOU!

The spotlight this time goes to my dear friend, j/jessa/jess/jessica.

I consider many of my girl friends sisters and j is definitely one of them. I've been lucky enough to know her for the past 7 years of my life. I've also been lucky to live with her for a lot of that time both in UT and NY, as she joined me in an adventure of a lifetime. She has been there for me through thick and thin and has never ceased to amaze me. She has such endearing qualities. She'll make an amazing wife and mother one day, as I have seen her compassion and support through the years. She is selfless and loving without end.

Growth is an amazing thing that all of us go through as we meet the demands of every day life. J continues to embellish life every step of the way.

This past week, she went through the temple. A group of us friends were able to go to St. George to support her in this step in her life. Thank you for being a great example in my life.

double tag... so i must!

2010-03-11T23:51:00.006-07:00

tagged once by j, tagged again by syd... guess i'm not getting out of this one! maybe i shouldn't check blogs for an even longer period of time! :) I bet they did it so at least there would be something new on here... it may just work. if i don't fall asleep by the end, i may post a couple more!

4 shows I like to watch
1. Suns
2. Utes football
3. Food Network
4. guilty pleasure- the hills- I don't know why!!!

4 things I'm passionate about
1. kids-- love them.
2. gyming it up
3. close ties to fam and friends
4. gospel

phrases I say a lot
1. a one word phrase- "fun" or "funny" after someone says something
2. for real
3. E
4. is this a joke... j- you know we've been roomies!

4 things I have learned from the past
1. You can plan life, but know there will probably be changes to your plan- self induced or not, and take you in a different direction.
2. parents are right
3. God knows you way better than you know yourself
4. You're never alone. Never.

4 places I would like to go
1. The orient
2. Aruba, Bahamas... come on pretty mama!
3. Northwest
4. Home to see the fam... again.

4 things I did yesterday
1. went to work
2. gym
3. showered/got ready/ate
4. watched a movie with a friend

4 things I'm looking forward to
1. having a family of my own to care for
2. moving up in my career
3. SuMmEr
4. the man of my dreams (does that count as something diff than #1?)

4 things I love about winter
1. It being over
2. A few months closer to spring/summer
3. the stillness during snowfall... as long as I don't have anywhere to be.
4. Christmas

4 things on my wish list
1. best hubbie in the world before I'm 30- I hope the man upstairs agrees... if not, (sigh) i'll keep having patience. (best for me of course... don't get all competitive)
2. to be able to adopt-- if I don't get a husband soon, I may just jump ahead to this one!
3. to be a better example
4. stay grounded for life, head on straight, with an eye towards the ultimate goal of eternal life.

4 people to tag
1. Mel
2. Mom
3. Nicole
4. Lisa

to the Betty Crockers of the World...

2010-02-21T19:46:00.006-07:00

I SALUTE YOU!

Today was quite the rough day in the kitchen. It began with me CRAVING homeade rolls at church today. I asked my one friend if his mom would be making any today and if so, if he could steal one away for me, that was a negative on the making part. I asked my other friend if she was going home today for dinner and she said no... dang it! The thought did cross my mind that maybe it wouldn't matter if I went to the store to get some Rhodes rolls at least... well I resisted that temptation (sigh of relief mom). So, I got home and decided to attempt it myself.

Well, it started with the yeast I had being expired by 2 yrs... shows how often I make yeast rising things! So I tested out the one WHOLE packet in the water and it was alive, yet... oops... I was only supposed to use a tsp, not a packet! So I threw it out and had one last packet. It wasn't as active as the other, but I decided to proceed. I put it all together and let the bread maker do the work. Well, so I thought! I went to check on it after it had been going for an hour only to find it was only kneading about half of the mixture together and the rest was around the edges. Boo. So I kneaded it together... didn't really work. I decided to roll up the toughness into balls and see what would happen... well, it's been a few hours and so far... nothing.

So to make myself feel better, I set off to make some cookies. The other day I bought the laxy man's cookie packet, you know the just add water type of a thing, so I thought no mistakes could be done here. I mixed it all up, scooped them all perfectly onto the pan and into the oven they went. 10 minutes later, wabam! Looking good! Looked like perfection. Then, I go to take them off the pan and what the, the bottom looked diseased!!!! Ugh. I put it back in the oven to see if it would fix itself. In this event, a cookie flew off the pan to the bottom of the oven.

Cookies still messed up, hard rolls are not rising, and I am sitting here writing this as a nauseating smell of a burned cookie in the bottom of an oven surrounds me.

And I wonder why I eat out so much!

fUn iN tHe SuN

2010-02-18T10:17:00.005-07:00

This last weekend, a couple friends and I decided to pack up and head to az for some fun in the sun and the added bonus of seeing the fam. The weather was perfect, even the whole drive down. We cruised around with the car windows down, jamming to tunes as we drove all over town. I couldn't have asked for anything better.

A strong start to the new year...

2010-01-27T13:18:00.007-07:00

wendover... bear lakesnowboarding grand prix... jazz vs. nets gamesuns game... skiing moguls qualifiers

Life has been filled of fun and goodness thus far in twenty ten. It's been busy, thus leaving me time away from this.

January proved to be quite the sporty/adventurous month.

Scrapbook?

2010-01-08T17:24:00.003-07:00

My amazing sister, Lisa, is so talented with scrapbooking and she is so successful at it. She has her own scrapbooking business, Scrapbook Circle, and a blog where she shares her creative ideas. I'm always amazed in what she does.

Her most recent post melted my heart. I just love her little kiddos and it was so fun to get to spend so much time with them, in such a small amount of time over Christmas.

Love you sister.

two thousand ten... 2010

2010-01-02T23:31:00.007-07:00

(at bear river lodge with friends- full of food for kings and queens, games, sledding, snowmobiling, hot tubbing, and plain out good times.)

2009 is not who I wanted to be and is now luckily my past.

I'm ecstatic for a new year, a new me.

To 2010:

My main goal for this year is to lose myself in others- join a service organization, NO gossiping, writing notes of endearment at least once a month.
Read the Book of Mormon cover to cover- learn more about the gospel.
Be clean in words, thoughts and deeds... and my room.
laugh more, frown less- surround myself with positive things and people- I know what brings me down, so no more of it.
Learn a new hobby.
Allow myself to make commitments and trust once again- be open and work for it.

Who said?

2009-12-29T21:33:00.003-07:00

Who said that Arizona can't have a white Christmas?! This may not be the white you are expecting, but it was enough white I needed for a little bit of fun Christmas morning!
So yep, you got it. I am the crazy one in the family (every family has one, and I've discovered mine is me!) because I made everyone go out in the "bitter" cold to get a picture. They were obviously not as excited.

Well folks... proof. Proof that it does get down to some freezing temps to put some AZ whiteness to the ground and cars... not the roads. The best kind. AZ is special. :)

wishing you a

2009-12-24T20:22:00.001-07:00

VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS! May you feel the love of the Savior daily in your life.

a perk...

2009-12-20T23:56:00.002-07:00

is the fact is takes me 30 minutes to get to resorts with "the best snow on earth." I headed up to Park City Saturday to get my first ride of the season in... I was way rusty, yet still had fun. ahh the beauties when it's not on the road, yet providing you with fun. a little where's waldo, but santa.

santas were seen everywhere! can you find this one?

Devin wanted me to go down to Provo after to go Christmas shopping. I told him I hadn't planned accordingly in my attire to do so. He said it couldn't be that bad... judge for yourself! If I were shopping in Park City, I'd be normal, but happy valley might not be so accepting.

Christmas Business

2009-12-15T17:50:00.006-07:00

The last couple of weeks have flown... probably because there has been so much to do. A little glimpse of what's been goin on:

- I went to Life is Wonderful with a good friend Brady. It was a production by a dance company, Odyssey, that went through the different acts of the well acclaimed movie.
- Festival of Trees is always a must... the trees are extravagent, gingerbread house madness, and don't forget... the delicious cinnamon rolls and scones you eat as you walk around looking. This year, I went with a group of friends from work.

- What's Christmas time without Ugly Sweater Parties? So, I was clever this year, went to the elegant D.I. and went to the BYU section (ah hem... cause they're ugly) and sported it at one of the most BYU condensed crowds there is.

- My works holiday dinner was fun. It was at a lady's house in my department that lives in a charming home.

- A group of my close friends/old roomies came over for a holiday spectacular- dinner, gift exchange, games, and a movie. I just love them and I am glad we live semi-close to be able to do it again and again.

it's been a year.

2009-12-12T23:23:00.003-07:00

a little pic from my drive last year

it's officially been a year since I packed up and moved away from ut, gearing up for my city dreams. anniversaries are fun as they allow you to look back and reminisce on all that has gone on. a lot has gone on in this last year. probably one of the most trying, growing experiences of my life.

i am one lucky girl. to see what i have seen, to experience what i've experienced, to have taken away what i no longer needed, and to prove dreams do come true.

christmas cheer

2009-12-01T00:26:00.005-07:00

So I got in the Christmas spirit and decided it was about time to have some grown up decorations around... so I headed to Roberts and left a happy girl. Everything was 1/2 off! Maybe I'll get to the upstairs sometime. I have put a centerpiece on the table for now to spice it up a little!

May this season bring everyone love, joy, and peace as we reflect on the Savior and his birth! I'm glad to have these reminders as I walk out of my room this Christmas season.

Thankful

2009-11-29T18:09:00.004-07:00

For:

my family

friends

gospel

christ and his atonement

a job that i love

a great place to live

food

sports and entertainment

vacations

being surrounded by love

to live in a free country

a prophet, apostles, leaders

an amazing education
for little prayers being answered every day

a little spotlight...

2009-11-16T22:05:00.002-07:00

Nope... it's not their anniversary, just a moment in time I feel the need to tell these two how grateful I am that I was placed into their loving and nurturing care 28 years ago (I guess if you want to get technical, it was long before that.)

These are two people in my life who have never let me down, and even at times when I'm sure I've let them down, they have carried me through with love and compassion.

If I've ever questioned love, I can look to these two and see that it still exists. I know they've never stopped loving me. Their love towards me is definitely unconditional. Life has had it's craziness and they have always been by my side. They've supported me in all my ideas and goals even if it may have not been something they would've voted for.

These two know how to give and give and give and receive little. They are amazing and I love them dearly.

embracing my favorites

2009-11-12T18:36:00.008-07:00

-Billy's

-scrabble, dominoes, cards, etc. being played in the parks

-central park and all it entails

-corner flower shops

-walks in the city, vast architecture

-richness of culture

-creperie

-walks on the brooklyn bridge

-sporting events

-street dancers

-uniqueness

i miss you already...

chopped time

2009-10-26T00:17:00.001-06:00

Why not go a "little" shorter right?

weekend 'o fun

2009-10-18T22:48:00.003-06:00

roadie to Idaho! It was a very quick visit, yet so fun!i met these 2 friends on the cruise i went on. i stopped in Pocatello on the way up to Rigby to say hi to one who's receptions i couldn't make it to a few weeks ago. Then I headed on up to go to Cara's reception which was fun to see her.the highlight of my fast trip was getting to see my dear friend that I haven't seen in at least 3 years. we had such a great time together... i wish we had more time. her little boy was so fun. we kept trying the timer thing but he was so crazy it was distracting and didn't work so well!i drove back to ut the next morning. later in the day, i baked up some delicious pumpkin blondies (or as the people as the bbq renamed them to pumpkin redheads) and a salad for a bbq with some other cruise buddies.heidi came along for the good time.mediterranean cruisers! (minus the bald man)that night... some friends and i went off to a masquerade. the masks we hard to normally see out of, so they didn't last last on our faces.

but, we still rocked out.

Last Wknd = mom and dad

2009-10-18T22:33:00.002-06:00

well they came in for a funeral so that's not so fun, but i was happy to see them. since mom wasn't able to eat her cupcake i got for her when she visited, i got them some more!before they headed out to the airport, we were able to go for a drive up the beautiful millcreek canyon and see some fall leaves changing (pics were on their camera) and then got a bite to eat at the delish Normandie cafe. Their dessert choices were decadent and tasted heavenly.

ugh... i thought these days were over

2009-10-11T17:47:00.002-06:00

I was wrong... we have now caught 4 in 24 hours. This is sick. What do I do? This house is nice so I thought, but this, this is just too much.

I have diposed of my first 2, and hopefully my last 2 mice ever.

After fun comes, well, not so fun.

2009-10-06T21:15:00.004-06:00

Suddenly on Sunday, a cold threw itself on top of me. Usually there is a warning... nope. Not this one! It gave me no time to prep, no time to remedy, nothing! Monday was no bueno (If that's even correct, I don't know). I got off work and went straight home to put on the sweats and snuggle into bed. I did make my way out of bed to make me some dinner. Before the cold was thrust on me, I had gotten ingredients to make roasted asparagus (rosemary, olive oil, shallots, and mushrooms). I pumped it out, sick and all. It was delicious, accompanied with Bear Creek's potato soup. Nice and simple.

There were plenty of leftovers, which I ate today, but had no taste on my palate. Sad. I hate how when I am sick, I crave food, but then it is tasteless in my mouth. No point to eating right?! I know, I know mom, I need to eat to get the nutrients yada yada, but really, I might as well eat mush all day cause it all tastes the same anyway!

The only blessing of being sick... I've been stuck at home=studying majorly for my big certification exam. With all bad, there is always good!

But, I am done being sick!

I heart visitors...

2009-10-06T21:08:00.002-06:00

Since I no longer live in the Big Apple, visitors are hard to come by, unless of course, it's general conference time! I was so excited to get to spend time with my cousins Amy and Katie. They were only here a few days, and I was blessed to see them on both of those days! How lucky am I?! We all went to conference together Sunday morning and joined up with more cousins- Sheryl, Steve, Aaron, and his wife Angela. I love family and the strength they bring to me in my life.

Yep...

2009-10-02T15:12:00.004-06:00

it's true. Oct. 1 did happen! craziness. yet, besides the dementia, i do still feel 19 (and perhaps dress like it too?). life is the spunk you make of it and i sure had a rockin day.

little b-day presents:
-walking out the door bright and early to work to find a warm cinnamon roll and signs hanging, wishing me a happy b-day.
-there was snow on people's cars and lawns the morning of, just a 1/2 mile up... but none was to be seen on my yard or car! yay!
-light traffic for once! It was rush hour and normally it'll take at least 40 min, but i got there in 20.
-i didn't have to park on the roof. i car pulled out just as i was pulling in.
-a good day at work... despite the fact no one knew it was my bday!
-a nice dinner at a mexican food restraunt downtown slc with some long time friends.
-bowled it up with quite the turnout of friends (i don't know what shells they all came up out of, but hey! they were there and we had a jammin time til 1130 last night... then i had to call it a night cause oldie had to get to bed to be at work at 730 this morn!
-a lovely, lovely day.

(i realized a lot of pics were taken with the same peeps! hopefully others will give me their pics, then i'll have more of a variety to update on here!)

2009-10-01T23:58:00.001-06:00

28!

Naughty or Nice Party...

2009-09-28T01:36:00.002-06:00

lookin a little nice...

then taking part in the naughty.

I'm so glad...

2009-09-28T01:28:00.004-06:00

when mom comes to visit... glad as i can be! yep... a sign and all.

grub time! Pat's BBQ in SLC- featured on Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives or whatever it is.the ribs were de-to-the-licious!

i miss you lewie!

Weekend 'o Fun

2009-09-21T21:32:00.002-06:00

what would a fair be without the farmer's animals.the gang... this is us right before the magic carpet ride.

yes... we tried to find the most fair 'esk food and ended up with a fried pb&j

funny that the fair bring out the craziest things.

The weekend started Thursday with the fair. Friday- Mom time. In visiting to go to her cousins reunion. (pics to come) date time- Scumptious italian dinner with a guy from the cruise i went on. Saturday- more mom time after her shindig. More eating. Utah and Byu games. Cabin time- went with friends from the cruise to meet up with another cruise friend visiting from texas- smores, sprinklers, hot tub. Sunday- french toast, pumpkin picking, looking out over the scenic view. Driving home through the canyon. Going to church with friends visiting from Logan. Making them dinner. Hanging out.

Now THAT is what I call a weekend! Wahoo!!! Funny how everything always falls into one weekend. I couldn't even make it to all the events. Quite the change from a few weeks ago.

"feeding" the homeless...

2009-09-12T12:11:00.003-06:00

So I go to feed the homeless this morning... and the dude below gave me the job of being guard to their pantry. Apparently I looked buff enough to keep the theives away. It wasn't quite what I was expecting when you think you're going to be feeding people. I never saw one homeless person.

This was the view I had! Ha! I was grateful for the servicable act though of filling in wherever I could. The dude kept praising the Lord for my services. I kept joking with him when he'd check in on me periodically about me being guard. He told me "oh, we need a guard!" and then shouted with his might, "cause Satan's demons are BUSY!"

I'm glad I kept Satan's demons out.

Laborious Free Day... Alone.

2009-09-07T23:54:00.005-06:00

Well, this weekend, is usually packed of something with a lot of people, but not this one! I spent it alone which seems to be happening a lot since being here in UT. Life has changed quite a bit since the last time I lived here.

When I left in Dec. I had a serious relationship with a dude for the 3+ years previous. That's obviously long gone, but I've realized, besides us and that group of friends, most of my other friends have moved on, gotten married or whatever it may be. Times have changed. It has been a VERY lonely time in life, yet I know REBIRTH is right around the corner. It's been hard work, a lot harder than it used to be I sware, but I've been putting myself way out there and I think I might be on the verge of making new friends... just not in time for the fun of the weekend.

I made a day of it though. For those that know me know I love the beautiful canyons I'm surrounded by so I headed up little cottonwood canyon, found myself a picnic area (um... maybe I ate my picnic food on the short 10 minute drive up because I was starving... oops! $5 lunch special at honey baked ham if you're wondering.), laid out my blanket on a rock next to a creek, surrounded by beautiful trees and scenery, and read (for my certification exam and then a church talk).

Maybe I got distracted a minute or two of reading my educational book and kept taking pics... it seemed more exciting! Nature is beautiful and so peaceful. I love it. Tonight, I shot up the grill, put my single turkey burger on, seasoned it up, make a lovely salad with spinach, strawberries, grapes, and feta, served with a diet coke, and ate it alone... until my roommate got home!

Dear summer please hold on for a while! I'm not ready for you to be gone!!! I LOVE YOU!!!!

the saying bff rings true...

2009-09-07T23:42:00.003-06:00

So, it is a great thing to think that all those bff heart necklaces, bracelets, or whatever it may be ring true for some people. Marni and I have been through a lot through the last 20 years (that makes me sick to write... only because I shouldn't be THAT old... sick, that's 2 decades!) Wow. Anyway, she was up in UT for a wedding, so we were able to get together and catch up. We went to deliciousness Kneaders for breakfast (I had the most scrumptious french toast) and talked the morning away. I haven't been to AZ since Dec. so it's always fun to see my AZ peeps.

Let the Season Begin!

2009-09-07T23:24:00.004-06:00

So maybe I felt like a little kid on Christmas morning, waking up on college football morning. I took my bro with me to the game. I was stoked. It was a happy ending.this guy never fails... there every game, dressed up, every year, pacing back and forth.let the games begin!!!!

the seats sure do have quite the view of the valley and the great salt lake. Sad, Dev and I realized a little late, we never got a pick of us there... Dev probably did it on purpose so that there was no evidence he was in enemy territory.

Wedding Bells

2009-08-23T13:16:00.006-06:00

The night before may have been a little crazy... yes, I ironed Jess's dress and shirt... no prob. I'm ironing mine, and all the sudden I see my skirt melt before my eyes... A hole went right into it. Panicked. Laughed. Teared Up. Became Ambidextrous. Made it Work. Went on to a beautiful day the next day!It was the big day for a bestie, Brittany.Here is 16 of the 19 bs maids.Buddies for life.A little pre-reception fun At the reception

Best wishes to J and B.

visit from the aunt and uncle

2009-08-23T13:08:00.004-06:00

Last Saturday and Sunday, I got to visit with my aunt Carla and uncle Jerry, as they were in SLC. It was great. We did a lot of catching up, eating, and played chicken foot (... of which I won). I just love them and I was glad to get to spend good, quality time with them!

Re-United!

2009-08-16T23:45:00.005-06:00

It's been fun getting back together with some of my besties... here are a few shots of good times. I need to take my camera out more often! It's been a crazy busy, last few weeks catching up with everyone. Sorry I don't have the pics to document!

Lynds and I with our scrumptious cupcakes, enjoying the outdoor nostalgic atmosphere at Diva's in Salt Lake. It was a definite night 'o fun filled with other fun things.

The night I got here, I went to eat at the Trolley with friends in Springville. I LOVE this place. Their salads are delicious!

Mel and Kirk did join up with us, but we didn't get the pic when they were there! :(

The first few days I didn't have a place to live so I stayed at Ashlees then Syd and Adam's, followed by Brittany's and soon to be Jacobs. I loved waking up to this note with Adam and Syd looking out for me... the best part I liked about it is what besties the husbands have become with each other. It warms my heart... quite the fun circle of friends I have!

Mel and Syd threw quite the great shower for Britt. I'm glad I ended up being able to make it to town just in time to attend.

My one and only True Love!

2009-08-16T22:57:00.005-06:00

the all loving, all encompassing, all deliciousness and scrumptious...

ChOcOlAtE cOvErEd CiNnAmOn BeArS! Oh how I've missed you terribly the last eight months of my existence and oh how glad and rejoiceful I am that we have been reunited.

One step closer to reality...

2009-07-28T22:54:00.002-06:00

Tonight, I made it to Kansas City. Tomorrow- U.T.A.H.

Gulp.
Excitement.
Hesitation.
Ready to Turn Around.
Friends.
Stress.
Fun.
Homeless.
Heartache.
Party Time.
Flashbacks.
A New Career Start.
Ahh!

Can you tell my head is spinning in circles?

Ready or not, here I come!

Sometimes you just don't know.

2009-07-22T01:08:00.003-06:00

Sometimes you get a phone call after you've forgotten it was an option.

Sometimes they give you 24 hours to respond.

Sometimes you think, alright, i'm doin this.

Sometimes life throws you a fast curveball.

In a weeks time, i'll have gotten a job offer, packed up, and will have started the trek across country to move back to S.L.C. Yep, you got it. Utah.

I have very mixed emotions. Utah is an amazing place, filled with amazing people, including some of my very best friends. I had thought that that chapter in my life was over, but apparently I was wrong!

I got a job as a Child Life Specialist, finally. So I'd be crazy not to take the offer. I am however, way sad to leave this place I have loved and have called home for the past 7 months. Everytime I walk outside, I look up, around, everywhere, to try to soak it all in. I feel like it's impossible to.

There isn't enough time! I don't feel ready for this, yet am pushing myself through it.

Dear NYC... I don't know if this is the end forever, but it was quite the amazing time while here. You'll never be forgotten.

Thank You.

Shakedown at the Majestic

2009-07-15T19:39:00.004-06:00

Some of our friends are in a band and made it into a competition to win a spot in a huge music festival in Germany. The competition was at the famed Webster Hall. They truly did an amazing job, but so did some others. They didn't win, but you never know, this could just be the beginning! We joined up with them for a pre-concert party with delicious pizza from Limbardis and fun people.

Yet another fav- concerts at venues. LoVe It.

So maybe...

2009-07-15T19:29:00.001-06:00

this was at about 2am. And maybe we decided to hit up the union square area joint, Artichoke, at about 1am. Maybe I had called at midnight expecting a voicemail telling me their hours, but when the man on the other end said they were open til 4 or 5 am, we laced up our sneakers and went out the door. Sloane and Rach are on their way out this week so last week/this night, marked the beginning of their leaving the city race to hit up all of those last places they haven't been.

The pizza was delicious. Sloane and I shared the Spinach/Artichoke and Rach and Jess shared the Cheese. I can't say it seemed so delicious when I was done and reality sunk in of what I had just done! Um... and I wonder why jeans are fitting MUCH tighter and I see my chubby face in pictures and think, what the.

OutDoOr SumMer ConCerts

2009-07-15T19:18:00.003-06:00

at Madison Square Park. These are held every Wed. and they are so much fun. I could open my apartment window and hear the music coming from them, or best of all, stroll a few minutes down my street to watch it live. Despite the expensiveness of NYC, they really do an awesome job in the summer of free events all around the city.

I love the outdoors on a summer day, sitting, relaxing in the nearby park, and hearing talented people strum up a beat.

This has definitely been one of my favs.

Seeking Elevation

2009-07-13T22:54:00.003-06:00

A new fav... Highline Park in Chelsea is a park that is elevated above ground. It's above the busy streets and hustle and bustle. The architecture and landscaping were amazingly thought out as they converted an old subway line into a beautiful, intriguing , chill park. Not to mention, the views of the city and the Hudson over to Jersey are spectacular.

Sometimes LIFE is

2009-07-13T22:37:00.002-06:00

One BiG HeadAche!

Feeling lost. Direction as far as overall goal in life, but directionless for the now. Sometimes too many options. Sometimes none. Sometimes confused, often perplexed. Shocked. Hurt. Growing Up. DeCisions.

Yes, I enjoy life and love where I am at right now, but really, if I could choose, I'd be settled. It's been fun, but I am ready to bunker down. I wouldn't be moving around all the time like I have. I'd have a steady job that I LoVe, a family of my own, a true close group of friends right by me.

Dear Life... I am ready to grow up when you are, but if I have a say, please let it be soon.

absolute blast with Dev

2009-07-09T17:18:00.004-06:00

Thanks brother for the great times...

empire state, madison square garden, city view, wall street, grimaldis, yankees stadium, mets game, shake shack, black and white cookie, wimbeldon at rockefeller center, rockefeller itself, magnolias, nba store, lawn chair time in times square... getting dumped on, brooklyn bridge, flatiron building (in my hood), outdoor movie night at Bryant Park, little italy, lady liberty, ellis island, bike rentals in central park, and the broadway, Mary Poppins. So much F.U.N.

friends

2009-06-20T00:20:00.003-06:00

I have the dearest friends in my life.

Some from birth, childhood, the past and now- You have carried me through life's strife.

Though many are so far away,

Know I think about you each and every day.

Thanks for the laughs... I look forward to more!

Thanks for putting up with the dance moves that may make you sore!

If you're in one of those slumps,

put your faith in the man above and he'll raise you from the dump.

I want every day to be amazing for all of you.

I want you to love all that you do.

I pray that all your wishes and dreams mend together

and that you are happy with life beyond measure.

I could never thank you all enough.

NY hearts visitors!

2009-06-17T12:23:00.004-06:00

Long time friends Lynds and Ty graced us with their presence.
we lived it up- Brooklyn Bridge Grimaldis pizza (wasting time in line)

Times Square (with the infamous T.S. cowboy)

Magnolias

Central Park

Big Apple BBQ

and Ground Zero,

just to name a few.

Thanks for the fun guys! You are so fun to be around and great supporters in the adventures of life. Thanks for the encouragement.

Can't wait for Devin to come now in 4 DaYs!

Since this is National Food Month for Kris

2009-06-17T12:07:00.004-06:00

Celebrate at the Big Apple BBQ at Madison Square Park just down from my house. We had a great time!

Pitmasters were there from all over the nation, showing off their finest meat and side dish. sometimes I'd rather not see where the food I'm eating came from!There were tons of tents set up all over. Grills were a goin, music and entertainment was jammin... it was a good time.

sometimes I wonder why

2009-06-17T11:42:00.003-06:00

My pants are quite snug, and then I look back at my pictures from the month, and this is what I see: pickles

doughnuts

cupcakes

burgers and fries

ice cream with sprinklesand some bbq

Apparently, fun in the city for me = F.O.O.D.

Over Due Notice... yet better late than never!

2009-06-05T19:39:00.005-06:00

So on June 3, my parents celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary! These two people mean the world to me and yes, I may be choked up right now just thinking of it. In those 37 years, the family has expanded and has added so many amazing people... young and old.

My parents are the biggest givers I know. They give and they give and they give. They give: a shoulder to cry on; financial support; nurturing care; love without end; ongoing support; endless prayers and love; stalwart examples of living and loving the gospel; optimism in downer times; endless forgiveness; joy beyond measure.

To the dearest mom and dad ever... I LOVE YOU! Thank you for all you do...

National Doughnut Day

2009-06-05T19:22:00.003-06:00

If you know me, you know I'm not a fan of doughnuts... I can think of about a thousand other things that I'd rather eat before a doughnut. Don't know why... just has always been like that. But, freaking "National Whatever Days" seem to make you think you have to do it to be cool or you're missing out! So I gave in to the peer pressure and had a delightful jaunt with Rachel to the NYC Doughnut Factory. I must say, they definitely have quite the decadent menu choices of doughnuts.

I went with the carrot cake doughnut. Good choice. Rach went with the carrot cake and vanilla bean. Good Times...

Sometimes You Crave Peanut Butter...

2009-06-05T19:11:00.004-06:00

so you visit the restaurant Peanut Butter and Co. with the most divine menu of peanut butter shmears. I was debating between the Fluffernutter and the Elvis... I went with the Elvis. Took me back to elementary years. I went with friends Ashley and Jess. It was a beautiful afternoon, so we got it to go and ate it at Washington Square Park. Splendid afternoon.

Duck, Duck, .... Beach!

2009-05-31T15:39:00.005-06:00

me and my roadie girl takin off

crazy amount of lds singlesgot to meet up with singles from the cruise. there were 7 of us there! a fun little reunion! this was my boyfriend... i denied him, but he kept being my friend. i also played on a volleyball team for the tournament... we lost, but it was fun. I have sand burns to prove it!

our crew...

beachin it up!i made peeps stay up for the sunrise. court and i are the only ones that made it! do you see how wide awake i am... nutso! wouldn't be a party without some jammin and moves from the amazing kris!

goin for a cruise in the vw beatle! so fun.

the casa= mega times!

the house backed up to the ocean, so you looked out all those windows and there she was!some of the last remains from the house! we had such a great time... the toothpick game in the pool, family feud, basketball games, hot tubbing, running into the ocean in the wee hours of the morning... such a blast.

OBX or bust!

take me out to the ball game... go METS!

2009-05-31T14:16:00.006-06:00

For the non-yankee fan in me... gotta cheer for the other side! We had a great time in the new Citifield with 7 row tickets that we got for free!

they won in extra innings... it was so fun!

My new pad

2009-05-16T00:46:00.004-06:00

I've had some requests to see pics of the new place located in Chelsea of New York, New York. I am absolutely in love and feel like the luckiest person ever for this opportunity!

Feeling overwhelmed!!!

2009-05-16T00:35:00.003-06:00

So I started to blog about the most amazing trip! Then, I don't know if it's the fact that it's rolling into the 3am hour, or the fact I have about 1000 pictures to condense into one blog that was overwhelming... so I am thinking, for those of you not my friends on facebook... you better add me and see the condensed version of pics on there... which is still a lot! I just don't know what to do! Suggestions?

Eat a legendary NY black and white cookie-- Check!

2009-04-21T13:00:00.005-06:00

Alright, so I thought it was going to be the Mediterranean next, but I hit up another checklist item... eat a black and white cookie. These black and white cookies have been a part of New Yorkers since 1902. It has a cake like bottom with dark chocolate fondant on the one side and vanilla fondant on the other.

I was feeling a bit under the weather today and went to get some soup at a nearby bakery. The dude asked if the soup (italian wedding lentils) was going to be it, and then I picked up this cookie. The owner looked at me and said, "It's on the house. You look like you could use one today..." uh, thanks I guess!

Me and free food lately, Carribbean last week, now Black and White this week! (At least this guy was NOT 50, hitting on me, and had a wife and kids)

So thank you man at "in between the bread"! The cookie was delicious! And it did make my day a little brighter!

and see ya for reals! time for the mediterranean!

2009-04-20T19:59:00.000-06:00

to do: dance it up in the city... check!

2009-04-20T19:54:00.003-06:00

It was a friend's birthday and she had her party at club prime in the city. A lot of people showed up and it was such a blast... note to self- NEVER wear high heels all day long, and then expect to last dancing... my feet killed not only that night, but the whole next day!

watch a band at a venue in the city-- check!

2009-04-20T19:25:00.002-06:00

I thought I'd add a few more things from last week.I love bands, i love venues, i love the city, i love cuties...
We met up with a lot of people we know, and cheered these guys on! (notice guy on left from the knickerbocker game)
with a band comes the afterparty, right?! Mmm... the creperie in the west village was absolutely delightful.some of the groupies. my crepe was the "famous crepe"- it had the works. strawberries, bananas, chocolate syrup, whipped cream, ice cream and what else?...

after hangin with the band, j got a bit tuckered out... it's rough hangin with the rockstars, taking an hour trek back, and wakin up 3 hours later for work.

p.s.

2009-04-19T20:11:00.003-06:00

I will be disappearing again... my sis is treating me to a Mediterranean cruise! I am off this Thursday and I am SOOOOOOO excited! I'm sure there will be quite the blog update soon enough of all of our adventures... Italy, Croatia, Turkey, Greece, and wherever else, HERE I COME! Wahoo!

on the road again to celebrate Easter at Mels!

2009-04-19T19:39:00.005-06:00

What's Easter without some egg searchin and candy stuffin?hmm... maybe i can coax my mom into getting me an easter dress in lieu of more grand kids! :)Let the fun in Blacksburg roll!

(yes, that is my toothbrush in my nieces mouth... that sneaky thing. she found it right after its use and couldn't get enough of it... i got a new one!)

Thank you Jorgensen Fam for the super fun time!

DC temple sittin it up!

2009-04-19T19:31:00.003-06:00

babysit duty 'r us! we were going to watch mel's kiddos while she went to my cuz temple sealing. then we had 4 more added on totaling 8! Wowzers. They were great for the first bit until they tried to convince us they go to the park in pouring down rain and got a bit stirk crazy from seeing everything at the visitors center. we attempted to go out in the rain... that lasted all but 2 minutes! Poor kiddos and poor sitters not knowin what to do!

the Quickest Roady Ever...

2009-04-19T19:20:00.003-06:00

Most of the trip was driving, but way worth it to see my sis and the fam for a bit! I wish it could've been longer, but J had to get back for work, and I had stuff I could be doin.

along with that... j and i did the quickest dash to some of the monuments the night we got in... i think we dashed around to 7 of them in 2 hrs... crazy. we knew the next day was going to be at the temple so we had to squeeze what we could in.

(pardon the water dots on the lense... grrr)

Internship Complete!

2009-04-19T19:10:00.002-06:00

So you wonder where I've been... well, I was taken over with getting everything wrapped up with my internship! I finished last Friday, and it's still been a whirlwind since!

They threw me a good-bye breakfast! Nothing like NY bagels... they brew em different here... really. They do.

one of my supervisors, the director, me of course, another sup, and the secretary.More of the crew...

the badge.
do I look excited?!! Everyone was so nice. They gave me gifts, a sweet card, and not to mention, the best internship ever! Straight from here, J and I were off to DC and VA for some family fun!

Meet the Knickerbockers at MSG

2009-04-19T19:00:00.004-06:00

Yep... you got it. You know the sports lover in me, so you know I was in heaven... even more in heaven when my previous (old news now) ward crush showed up and sat right behind me... heart started racing! Too bad I have become so awkward, like return missionary awkward, when it comes to flirtation since Jeff (whom is now engaged after dating a girl for one month). Ok, so I did pretty well with one dude since lameo, but sinceI think a spell has been put on me!

Pic did NOT give him justice...

i'm sorry... i'm back though!

2009-04-19T18:57:00.002-06:00

So life got a little crazy there for a while. Mainly because I was finishing up my internship and had a ton to do, then once that was over, I had a lot to catch up on! So my apologies! But, now, more info than you wanted to know!

ny water anyone?

2009-03-22T21:23:00.004-06:00

a lovely saturday in the city

2009-03-22T16:27:00.003-06:00

*a nice stroll around the upper east side... day dreaming of the home I'd live in. (the yellow one on the left hand side of this picture)
*stopped in at bare minerals to test out their make-up.
*went to sephora to get a in the mean time make-up item.
*walked by a wishful thinking restaurant of jean-georges... in my book it had said he left his formal dining to open this restaurant JoJo's... menu items and prices, not so non-formal! I'd be interested to see his formal dining!
*so away I went down into SoHo and walked the bustling streets of chic shops and vendors.
*ate some scrumptious sicilian pizza.
*went to the market nyc- it's a designer market of those whose items have yet to make it into the mainstream. it was a warehouse full of designers selling their clothing, hats, jewelry, headbands (yay!), handbags, etc.
*then off to the hat shop- "quiet dignity" all the way to "flamboyant extravagance. They custom make the hats so they fit you perfectly. The lady was trying to sell me a "reasonably" priced felt fidora for $225... um, yeah... I wish! They even send you away with the hat in an old-fashioned hat box.
*then I fought the annoying crowds of canal street to grab some things for friends... don't plan on going back there any time soon.
*off again... back uptown!
*stopped in at Dean and Deluca (a fine food emporium) to partake of delectable samples of breads, pizzas, food, cake, pastries... these said samples were none existant (maybe they discovered a book recommended this and that is why there was a plethra of people coming in to eat their samples!)
*on up I went and stopped in at Columbus Circle. I wanted to get some delicious fruit at Whole Foods, but decided I did not want to carry groceries in my ward activity.
*that said.. I headed further up to go to my ward's talent show. it was quite the display of an array of talents. It was a full 3 hour show!

My Day! Do you care? No, but thanks for reading!

Syd! Happy Birthday! We Miss You!

2009-03-17T22:01:00.002-06:00

St. Patty's Day!

2009-03-17T21:28:00.000-06:00

Tonight was full of goodness... green deluxe cupcakes that I picked up and Jess's green pancakes... not to mention our sweet outfits!

These People Mean The World To Me

2009-03-15T20:00:00.002-06:00

dad- supporter and dedicated
mom- nurturer and faithful

lisa- confidant and respectful

ward- creative and inspiring

michelle- adventurous and caring

melanie- giving and enlightening

bryce- spiritual and insightful

devin- peacemaker and devoted

kiddos- enthusiastic and exemplary

Thanks for all you do... I love you all. You mean more to me than words can express.

lets change the name on the shirt to "I heart Max Brenner"

2009-03-14T20:30:00.005-06:00

Chocolate lovers beware! This place is Amazing! Words cannot express the decadence and ambiance found within the walls of Max Brenner. It is mouth watering just thinking of it. Think of Willy Wonka, yet the adult version set within the walls of NYC.

The menu is amazing- crepes, waffles (pictured), fondue, smores, entrees, drinks, shakes, chocolate granita (pictured), and so much more. Words cannot express each breathtaking bite.

Get lost in exploring their dessert and drink menus and you will see what I mean!

(Lynds and Tyler, put this on your list!)