and you said it was like Christmas

Regan finishes his last final at 9 am tomorrow morning. (Actually, its a take home final so he might be done before that but it has the be turned in by then.) And I am SO excited for it all to be over. It feels like Christmas Eve and I am getting GIDDY.

On an equally happy note, I found that picture that I wrote about last year. (The one that inspired me in a way that no other painting had before.) So I thought I'd post it. Like I mentioned last year, when I initially looked at it I wasn't immediately overwhelmed by the actual art (which may sound rude but art is subjective so I think its ok- plus I thought the dogs seemed out of place from the nativity scene that I imagine). But two years have passed and this image has just stayed with me. When I think about the events of that Holy Night I feel an overwhelming sense of peace and hope and joy. And that is exactly what I think a Nativity painting should do to a person. And now, it is definitely my favorite Christmas depiction. Every time I look at it I remember these special feelings I had and I love it all over again.

what i was doing 5 years ago today

counting down

We are really looking forward to doing this again in a few weeks:


Here's hoping these last two weeks just cruise on by...

T minus three days

Once upon a time I was a lowly college freshman having the time of my life in the dorms. Being the naive nineteen year-old that I was (…alright, I was still eighteen for the first 3 months but I was going for a little alliteration.) Anyway, being the naive nineteen year old that I was, I signed up for the worst class of my life. It was literally the bane of my college existence. Even worse than when I took statistics 2 years later (but most likely that was because this came first and was much more shocking.)

So yes, I signed up for accounting 200. That wonderful class, as my brother described it, “as the one that you only have to go to 8 times in a semester”. And we were going to take it together. How fun. But the problem was four fold:

1. We were also taking another class together that overlapped with the eight times/semester that we were supposed to go to Accounting, so therefore we missed the first half of the class on those days. Or at least those days that we remembered that we actually had to go to class.

2. That I was a freshman enjoying all the freedom that comes from living away from home for the first time and really didn’t have time for nonsense like watching 2-hour DVD lectures when I could be staying up to go bowling at fat cats at 11 pm. Or watching movies on someone’s laptop outside. Or ice blocking at Rock Canyon Park. Or having dance parties in the basement. Or obsessing over dumb boys.

3. I was never very good at forcing myself to do unpleasant things anyway. And I quickly found Account 200 VERY unpleasant.

4. My brother didn’t seem to be having a hard time with it. Nor did he cry and moan about it like I was wont to do-so I figured it couldn’t end that badly.

Needless to say, it did end badly. After I skipped out on watching the lectures for oh, 2 months, or so, I got a little worried when the second test came around. I hadn’t done particularly well on the first test when I had actually tried to listen to the professor (albeit on the fastest speed possible.) And after doing poorly on the second test I really felt like all hope was lost. There was no way I would ever catch up. And I only tried half-heartedly on the third test. I can remember going to a five-hour review session one Saturday morning at 8 am. (8 Am!? On a Saturday?!!? That was unheard of around where I lived.) I’d gone to Preference the night before and stayed up until about 3 am. My brain was all fuddled and I only got more desperate and hopeless as the session went on and on. And on. I can remember going outside during the break and calling my mom. “I just don’t understand! I’m just so tired…” I cried. And the last thing I wanted to hear was to go to the teacher for extra help. I was too embarrassed for that. Admit that I needed help? Never. I was just a freshman and that was far too embarrassing. I think I left the review early and went to take a nap. A nap always makes my problems go away.

I think I must have felt renewed or something because by the time the final came around I decided I was going to give it one last-ditch effort. I really had no other choice in my opinion. So I got myself to the library and there I sat for 14 hours straight, watching the lectures I’d missed, going over hand-outs, and telling myself “you can do this.” I felt like I had gotten to the point where I could at least sit down at the testing center and not cry…and hopefully feel like I had made some sort of effort. And I actually thought that I understood what I was trying shovel into my head. I even felt proud that I stayed in the library that long. That I focused that hard. Don’t get me wrong- I did study quite a bit and very regularly for my other classes that semester. But they were ones that I mostly enjoyed and they came more naturally to me. I could have studies American Heritage for hours! The saddest part of it all was that in the end I still didn’t do too hot on the final. What did you expect? What about Clayton you ask? They turned the lights out on him when the testing center was closing- he filled in the last ten bubbles in the dark- and still scored higher than me.

So what is the point of this story? Well. I’m not exactly sure, I guess. I’ve just been thinking about it this week. And it was a while before I felt like I could talk about that experience. I still cringe just a little when I hear people talking about balance sheets and debit and credits and all that. In fact, Regan is learning accounting type stuff for one of his classes and that is partially what brought the haunting memories back.

I was remembering how I spent all those hours at the library and how at the time I thought it was the craziest thing ever. Then I realized the other day that Regan does that all the time. Like most days of the week. I don’t know how he does it. But, I am glad that he does. Even if it means I have to entertain myself most nights, I am happy to do it because I really do appreciate his diligence and discipline.

I was also thinking that in the end, the class was over and I went home for Christmas break and mostly forgot about it. After four months of stressing and crying and having that dreaded nagging feeling… it ended. It was not the best ending but my life went on. So, I guess I want to make a toast to Regan’s finals. Being over. And I know for sure that they are going to go better than mine did my freshman year.

and so it begins

You know the let down you feel when you get home from a really fun trip or a day off and then you realize that you have to get back to your regularly scheduled life? I was feeling it last night. Big time. We made the trek back from Richmond yesterday morning and it wasn't long before I started to feel that familiar dread that accompanies the last night before you go back to work.

So, I got to work doing some things I love most: I curled up on the couch and watch Jane Eyre and then when that was over a blasted my Christmas playlist while I pulled out all of our Christmas decor (which actually didn't take that long.)

I'm so happy that my favorite season for celebration is back again. It felt like Christmas the whole time I was in Richmond even though we were celebrating Thanksgiving; my mom had already trimmed the trees (all three) and even put Christmas pillowcases in my old room. I've always thought that the holidays should just be lumped into one anyway. I'm comforted by fact that Regan's finals will be over in 3 weeks. (You can do it Regan!) Oh, and we have that fun trip to UT to look forward to!

FYI, our gourmet Italian Thanksgiving was a roaring success, our resident chef really out-did himself, in my opinion. I'm still dreaming of Denton's pumpkin ravioli. mmmm mmmmmm. And Regan has been raving about the turkey ever since.

And now, I'm off to start doing all those official Christmassy things I love to do... and I'll be really happy when I have Regan back from the dungeons of the library to enjoy it all with.

Happy Holidays!

24 on the 24th!

I was a little nervous in anticipation of my birthday this year. 24 on the 24th is NEVER going to happen for me again. I've never in my life felt old (I guess that comes with being the youngest in my family) but with my nearing birthday I started to feel like time was running out. Does that qualify as a quarter life crisis? Cause in my mind, 24 marks my official embarking into the MID-twenties. And I've spotted some gray hairs the last few months. (And do I need to remind you all of the coldwater creek incident?)

But, I when I woke up this morning (at an all-together-too-early time to wake up on your birthday) I really didn't feel any different. Not that I expected to. In fact, I was mostly just excited because my getting older also meant Regan brought me breakfast in bed. He invented a breakfast quesadilla that was almost too good to be true. And, I guess the one perk of being the baby of your family is that no matter how old you get (or think you might be getting) you eventually realize that everyone else is still years ahead of you!

All in all -and despite having to work extra on my birthday (heh. How much longer do you think I can milk having to work on my bday?) I've had a very lovely anniversary of my birth (as my father-in-law would say). Thanks of course to all my wonderful friends and family for the happy birthday wishes, calls, texts, emails, etc. And most especially because of Regan, who always makes the day memorable. This is the fourth birthday that he has helped me celebrate. How crazy is that?

I took this next picture while I was talking to my mom this morning so I could show her the green sweater that Regan picked out for me. He also got me new running shoes and I just have to mention that he was SO patient while waiting for me to make a decision. I seriously am so obnoxiously indecisive. But he didn't mind at all (or at least he acted like he didn't.) I tried to tilt my head in the picture to include the gray hairs I'm sporting but I guess they don't photograph well... lucky for me.

When I got off of work we went out to dinner and then Regan took me to pick out a dessert. I think I chose the most decadent one they had at Fresh Market. We got maybe a quarter of the way into it. And that makes two nights of cake in a row (we had our friends over for pumpkin cake squares on Sunday night.) I think I forgot to make a wish when I blew out the candle... both times. Hmm, that's a bummer now that I think about it. Oh well, only 364 days until the next one...ps- Regan told me that I could say that he made this cake. (As in, he MADE it happen.) So kudos to Regan.

i thought this day would never come...

Hooray! It's FRIDAY.

I'm all too happy to kiss the longest-week-ever goodbye.

Just wanted to give a little shout out for my favorite team.

Win or Lose, I'll always love my cougs.
(Even if I'm still learning to love watching football.)

Happy Cheering!

ps- I'm eager to hear any reviews of twilight for those of you going to see it tonight!

baby it's cold outside

35 degrees to be precise. It's no wonder that I had a hard time getting out of bed this morning.

I've been really wanting to get an electric blanket but after this morning I think it could be my downfall. I'm pretty positive that I'd hibernate until Dec. 19th. (That's when Regan finishes his finals and we get to party.) 31 more days to go Regan!

This lovely picture is keeping me going today. I almost feel warmer just looking at that sun. Which I guess is a good thing since I'm not going to see it in real life today. I'm working LONG days all this week.

pictures from last weekend

Last weekend I went to Raleigh to hang out with my sister. On Friday night we went to High School Musical 3 and I kind of LOVED it. On Saturday night Clayton came down with two of his friends and I schooled them all in President's Scum (or something along those lines.)


Side note: my cube-mate just came over with her Coldwater Creek catalog and showed me several pieces in it that, according to her, looked like "Lindsay". I'm not sure what to do with that information. Perhaps I'll just file it away in folder marked "depressing'. (Right next to the time when the teen from Baby Gap told me that I should totally apply because they love to hire moms and older women.) And I digress...

Hope you all have a happy Friday!

another twilight post

Sorry for the non-fans out there. And for the record, I am not an obsessed fan. I consider myself a mildly interested consumer. I haven't even decided if I'm going to see the movie when it comes to theater because I can't imagine that its going to be very good. (Don't worry, I am sure I will see it eventually.)

Now that that is out of the way, back to my story:

Over Halloween at World Market they had some "Vampire" wine on display. It wasn't a real hot seller during my Wednesday night shifts but one night a girl spotted it and said she HAD to buy it for her Twilight Premiere Party. I thought it was funny, so of course I bring it up anytime anyone talks about the wine. (I, of course, have no intention of purchasing the wine but I did think it was kind of clever idea.)

This past Wednesday one of my co-workers stopped me in the middle of my telling this novel use of the wine (I'm so punny!) and my Twilight endorsement to say that she thought that as a Southern Baptist I couldn't read books about vampires and such. (Obviously, I haven't been very thorough in my missionary work. I guess I'm gonna have to work on that.)

I quickly corrected her, telling her that I am actually member of the LDS church. And while Mormons may not drink or smoke or swear, we LOVE us some teenage vampire drama. (I realize it's not just a Mormon thing- but there is a serious following from women in the church.) And if she were to read the series (like I may have suggested a few times in passing) she would know that it is not really about evil vampires... it focuses on the follow-your-moral-compass kind of vampires. That's a type of vampire, right?

And then I might have mentioned that the author was actually a fellow Latter-day Saint. Just you know, to set the record straight.

Suffice it to say, I might start having a hard time convincing people that I'm not obsessed with the books. I've read them once. And recommended them to a few people. And maybe posted arguments on behalf of a certain character on my blog a few times. And sometimes when I see a pregnant woman I imagine her baby clawing its way out of the uterus. No biggie.

confession

Okay, so basically... Regan and I snuck into Sam's Club today.
You know, just for comparison's sake.
_______________________________

We found there is nothing to compare.
Sorry Sam. Our hearts belong to another.

moving on. moving foward.

I thought McCain's concession speech was excellent. All the more reason why I am disappointed by his loss. I wasn't a true fan from the beginning but I felt like I grew to appreciate and admire him. And for the record, I truly did believe that Palin represented the conservative/family values that I only hope to find in a politician. I feel blessed to have been born into a country where I have the freedom to vote for my government leaders and I respect the democratic process that got us a new president-elect today. And now, I am done talking about the election.

As of this morning, I am going to work on this:

(and ps- can I just say that Obama really did have better

graphics and posters throughout this whole ordeal?)

Despite which party holds office in the future, I know America has a lot of hard times ahead (with the economy, national security, moral stances, inevitable natural disasters, etc.) but I'm not too worried. I feel like with the Gospel we can press forward and make it through. The most important thing is for us all to do our part to stand up for what we believe in and safeguard our families for the future. I am grateful for the hope I find in the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the knowledge I have of a loving Heavenly Father who looks after us all.

its almost over!

I can't believe that after two years of speculating, debating, and campaigning the election is going to be OVER. I'm almost sad. I can't help but wonder: What in the world will we talk about now? Will SNL still be any good? Is it too soon to start on 2012?

Watching the news, I'm just getting so anxious over it all. Haha, a few weeks ago I told Regan that I really felt like I could relate to the campaigners/candidates better than most, having run my own presidential campaign in high school. He had a good laugh about it (as did I) but I was only trying a little to be funny... I secretly kinda believe it in my heart of hearts.

Mostly, I think I'm just really going to miss all the commercials. Glad I at least have Christmas to look forward to (oh yeah, and that Thanksgiving holiday too).

Tonight I stopped by Target to check out the Halloween clearance and saw that they are hauling in all of the Christmas decor. I am so excited! I feel like it was just yesterday that I was checking out the after-Christmas sales. Time flies when you are... oh, I don't know... serving in nursery*? (Nope, that's definitely not it.) Well, whatever the reason- 'tis not quite the season yet but- it is coming soon!

i voted

And it was the worst experience of my life. Or at least a strong contender in the running.


Regan and I stood in line for THREE hours to cast our electronic ballot this morning. It was extremely inefficient and maddening. They only had 6 voter machines open at our designated location. About 2 hours into it Regan said he'd vote for whomever could get us through the line quicker. Ha! Looking at the polls tonight, I at least feel like my vote mattered in my state. We went out to lunch afterward (my purse will gladly take the hit to help the future of our economy!) and Regan said that if he had to waste three hours in the longest/worst line EVER he'd rather waste it with me than anyone else. Do I have a winner here or what? From now on I think I'll stick with absentee ballot.

On a happier note we had a Happy Hallowings party (with Hallowieners: aka lil' smokies) with some of our friends last night. Supposedly this is going to be an annual tradition? I ended up dressing as the pink panther, although my last minute costume made me look more like a pink mouse. Regan went as "apathetic." heh. It was a fun night although I'm still dissapointed that I forgot about getting a free "Boo-rito" at Chipotle. Guess there's always next year!

i've redeemed myself

Last night I made my trusty standby: homemade tacos. We love love love tacos at our house. It's really not hard to love them- especially if you have Tortilla Land's uncooked tortillas. They don't sell them at my Costco but lucky for us Regan made a trip to Utah last week and he smuggled some home in his suitcase. If you are lucky enough to have the uncooked tortillas in your neighborhood I really hope you take advantage of them.

Anyway, it's a good thing my tacos were so good because I BOMBED in the kitchen on Sunday. And not in the "I am the bomb" good way. Seriously guys, it was B-A-D. You are all shocked right? I'll admit to making my fair share of convenience dinners, over cooking something a little, undercooking, etc... but I really don't think I've had any major kitchen catastrophies in the 2+ years that I've been married-until now. Two rubbery chicken breasts + a failed attempt at substituting missing ingredients + freezer burned broccoli may not sound like the worst thing ever (I know I've eaten things that were grosser before) but in combination it left MUCH to be desired. And does anyone know how to tell if mushrooms have passed their prime? If dark spots are a bad sign, add that to my tab. oops.

Fortunately for my pride, I was the first one to acknowledge the misfortune. At first Regan tried to say he didn't notice the freezer burn. By the end we both just kept saying, "Man that was a really bad dinner." For some unknown reason we still choked it down but then we were "forced" to replace the lingering aftertaste with Blue Bunny chocolate ice cream. And that was almost worth the worst meal ever. Seriously people, get on the blue bunny train, already.

Any one else out there ever have any kitchen mishaps lately?

Have a Witchin' Halloween!

Time has slipped away from me and it has been nearly a month since I last posted. Oops!

I can't believe that Halloween is here and November is just around the corner. I love love love this time of year. I've been celebrating here and there... I dressed up for my ward

halloween party (Regan was out of town and missed out), made some Bewitching treat bags for some friends, and some pumpkin baked-goods for FHE last night.

My broomstick treat bags:

Me as a mime:

(the face paint turned out kinda scary...I had to work fast after getting off of work )

On a side note, I also got my hair cut again and its short. Even shorter than last time. Not sure if you can really tell in this picture... I was trying to fix my headband right as the picture took but this is the only picture that I wasn't doing a weird smile (also referred to as pinched face-by my brother Clayton) so I'm posting. I was a little unsure of the cut at first but Regan loves it so I feel okay about it.

i caved... and it was AWESOME

Three posts in one day. What is going on? Sometimes I just have a lot to say, I guess. (Sometimes I don't have much to say so I just repeat myself... either way, here I am.)

It all started when I got home from work, thinking I had just enough time to change my clothes, grab my apron, and head out the door with a pb&j. But low and behold, Regan surprised me with a semi-home-cooked meal. I was in heaven. So much so that I documented it:

Isn't he the best? I think so.

Because he was so thoughtful, I decided maybe I could run over to Costco on my break to pick up the Batter Blaster, after all I am a giver. Of course we had to try it out asap. AND oh my goodness the stars aligned on  this product. They are so easy and delicious. I don't think I could even buy all of the organic ingredients for less. I'm converted. 

if you prick me, do i not bleed?

Apparently, I am a novelty around the office. Some of my coworkers think it is amazing that I am the wife of a student AND a staff member. (What can I say, I'm great at multitasking. Have I mentioned that I kick box twice a week now too?) Although, I sometimes feel like for that reason I don't always get taken seriously.

Maybe it has something to do with the fact that when my coworker suggests that this is "the perfect career for me because there are colleges everywhere and I could easily work where ever Regan gets a job", I hide in a bathroom stall and cry. (Kidding. I save all crying for when I get home. Haha. Still Kidding. Oh man, now I'm having flashbacks to my childhood and my brother Denton saying, "Kidding. Just kidding about just kidding. No really I'm kidding... about kidding." And you wonder why I'm such a tortured soul.)

Ugh, please save me from that digression. (Fyi, still love you Denton, but those were rough times.)

ANYWAY, a faculty member saw Regan and me in the hall today and randomly asked me if I got a faculty parking spot, too. (As in, on top of every other 'perk' this place has?) I just smiled my overly excited/nervous smile (you know the one) and nodded like it was the coolest thing ever. And I was being genuine. At first. Then she told Regan that he should never let me go. Which is true, but I'm highly offended that my free parking pass is the asset she thinks I bring to the table. Really, it shouldn't be that shocking that I get to park in the Faculty/STAFF lot. I am a Staff member, after all.

Not long before this incident someone else asked me if I was getting benefits through the school. I mean really? I am a regular staff member just like everyone else. I agree that it is a perfect situation to have me working here whilst Regan is in school, (that is why I worked hard to make it happen) but I also don't think it should be that shocking that I landed such an opportunity. I mean, I think I'm qualified to be in my position, what with my college degree and all.

Don't worry, I take it all in stride. I really do enjoy my job (most days) and am so grateful to have it. More than anything I think people are just trying to comment on how smart I am for getting the proverbial "Man" (who is bleeding me dry) to work a little quid-pro-quo for me. (And who says I haven't picked up a thing or two hanging around these legal types?)

not much going on at work today

Except for the fact that my Snyder's pretzel snack bag birthed a conjoined pretzel baby. And that does not happen everyday, my friends. (oh no! McCain is rubbing off on me. Must stop watching political debates before bed...)

On an unrelated, side-note: Has anyone out there tried these things? Regan is dying to try them but I am having a hard time believing that they are really going to be all that great. The jingle is catchy, "Make a better breakfast faster... Batter Blaster!" But there just seems something inherently wrong with the idea. (Cue Regan's sales pitch: "What could possible be wrong with getting organic pancakes instantly for 9 cents a pancake... etc etc etc."

I guarantee my homemade waffles are better but he is relentless. And usually he is all about homemade-everything (Cue my mom: "former life, former life") so maybe I should just take advantage before the novelty wears off.

nursery

This week marks the one year anniversary of me getting called to serve in the nursery of my ward.

Some days are rough, especially at the beginning, (all the crying makes my ears ring) and I have to drive home in silence. And there was at least one occasion when I told Regan I couldn't talk about the experience afterward; I seriously needed a Valium. But, as the months drag...I mean go... on, and the little kids get a little older, it gets more and more fun.

I like to complain, but I know that I will be really sad if/when (please be when!) I leave. Besides the fact that I'll have to trade toys and snack time for Sunday School, I think I would miss not getting to hang out with my little friends. For the past few weeks Regan has been subbing as my assistant and those weeks have been the most fun for me. He is so funny with the kids and they love him. I keep telling him I am going to request him as my regular helper. He doesn't really like to hear that. Siiigh.

It is hard to know if any of them get anything out of our two minute lessons but I feel blessed to get to share these children's first experiences in the church. If nothing else, my testimony that we are children of a Heavenly Father, who loves us, has been strengthened this past year.

Rumor has it that there is a new Nursery manual out... I'm SOOO psyched.

the economy is going to pot

And I'm kind of scared. I feel like my goal this year has been to learn how to live a more simple (and meaningful) life. I've really tried to define my needs vs. wants and realize where true happiness comes from. And this is something I battle with DAILY. Is anyone sick of me talking about this yet? I kind of am, but I'm also obsessed so I just can't stop.

I'm trying to live within my means; some weeks I do better than others. All of these goals I had were for us to try to "get by" while Regan is in school but lately I've been forced to think of the (at least temporarily) failing economy and the impact that has on our future. It's a wonder I can sleep at all at night. (No really, it is. Insomnia is rampant in family tree... knock on wood, so far I've been untouched.)

I'm so grateful that the church has made provident living a priority in gospel teachings so that I can learn to be prepared when the nation is facing less prosperous times.

Today, our bank sent us a little pledge of things we should all be doing to be able to declare our financial independence. I LOVED it. I'm going to print this baby out and stick it on my fridge. Fo shizzle. I really love ING. And, because I love you all (and want you to be equally independent) I will share:

this is so ugly

I've tried really hard to make my blog "pretty" and I think this is totally going to mess up the ambiance of my layout but I couldn't not post this picture.


Regan killed one of these this morning. It was in our shower. I'm really sad to report that this is not the first time we seen one of these in our apartment. I can't even confidently say that it is the twentieth. (uugh! I know.) I still can't figure out how they are getting into our bathroom. I keep asking Regan this but he says we can't try to understand it...we just have to kill them. They are hard to catch because as you can imagine, with those legs, those guys are fast. Like Usain Bolt fast. Regan has made me swear that if I see one when he is not home that I will kill it and not just pretend that I didn't spot it. (What? They're gross.)

i'm dying to

get on What Not to Wear. I think the mortification might be worth the $5K shopping spree + trip to NYC + Carmindy's make-up tutorial. Any one want to "secretly" nominate me?

Or maybe I should plan a trip to China and have the Banana, JCrew, and Anthro catalogs recreated. Is that PC?

Fashion show, fashion show, fashion show at lunch!

Soooooo happy that The Office is back on tonight.

Last season was not my fave (and totally upstaged by 30 Rock, in my humble opinion) but I'm hoping season 4 can redeem the show. I have high hopes for tonight's episode. I guess I'm just a glass half-full kinda girl. And really, we all know that Kelly Kapur never disappoints.

book club!

I'm not actually in a book club. But if I were to start one tomorrow, the book I would choose is "It's All Too Much" by Peter Walsh. You know Peter from TLC's Clean Sweep? (Love that show, btw.) He's also been on Oprah, saving the world one pack-rat at a time. Well, he just so happens to have a book.

I stumbled across the book one day during my routine distraction of choice (aka, web browsing.) So I hopped right over to my library's online catalog and requested the book. My notice for pick-up came in the mail yesterday and viola! I'm well on my way to learning the psychology of consumerism/hoarding. Which, interestingly enough, affects more people in more ways than you might think.

One big point that Peter writes about in the book is how our society has become preoccupied with consumption and accumulation. He calls it the "stuff epidemic." Here is a little (ok, long) excerpt that struck me:

"We live in one of the most prosperous nations on earth, and we measure our success by material accumulation. Everywhere we look we are encouraged to buy more. Love your kids? Prove it by giving them the best clothes, games, sports paraphernalia, or the latest video game system. Just got a raise or a better job? Time to show if off with a bigger TV or a flashy new car or more (and expensive) clothes. In two-income families where there's barely time to relax, we try to find happiness by buying more stuff. Everywhere we turn, we're told that more is better. We super-size our food. We buy two for the price of one instead of buying one at half price. But for many, it has become clear that instead of bringing happiness and peace of mind, all this stuff is stressing us out and alienating us from our families, our partners, our dreams. Sure, some stuff does improve your life. Of course it does. Who can argue with a comfortable home and a nice car? But where do you draw the line? Did you know the size of the average new house in this country has grown almost 50 percent in the last thirty years? And all this while the average family size has declined. With more space has come the urge to fill it with more stuff. Unfortunately, more stuff doesn't guarantee greater happiness. And when happiness doesn't come, you buy more, thinking that's the answer. Instead of bringing you closer to the life you want to live, your stuff starts getting in the way." (p. 28)

I haven't finished the book yet, but one thing he stresses is that the issue isn't the 'Stuff' itself. It is our relationship to that stuff. He tells the people he helps that you have to start by imagining the life you want to live. It's about keeping stuff that makes sense in your life--your real life--not a fantasy of what was or what could be. 'Stuff' is secondary to who you are and that should be reflected in your home.

I think I just had an Aha! moment. Note to self: stop wasting time and money on things that do little to enhance my quality of life. Actually, my aha moment might be that I think I could really dig going into a person's house and making them throw out the crap and spruce the place up. Think Peter needs an intern?

it came!

Yay yay yay! My first subscription to Real Simple came in the mail this week. Regan got me a subscription for our anniversary because he knows I like to keep it real. And I'm simple. And cause he said being married to him was Real Complicated... but I guess they don't make that magazine.

I love this magazine so much and I am so happy to have 12 uninterrupted months with it. Thanks, Regan! I'm already so inspired. One of these days I'm going to have a perfectly organized house, free of clutter and any sort of stress. But until then, I'm putting off cleaning my bedroom, doing laundry, and washing the kitchen floor for one more night so I can soak up all these good tips. I've got to study y'all. I need to do it right!

is it too early to quit?

Haha. Just kidding! Kind of. I always hate starting any new job and having to learn the ropes but it wasn't that bad last night. A little boring, yes. But my apron sure is cute. (Yes, it's just plain black but I still kind of love it.)

Standing behind the cash register watching another girl ring up all the customers really put a damper on my idea that I would be "playing store". I felt like I was five again and yelling at my brothers: Let ME play! I looked at the clock about 30 minutes into my shift and almost had heart failure. Luckily, it turns out that the clocks at the register are 20 minutes behind.

Once I finally got to ring a few people up it got better but really cashiers should get to have a stool. And a magazine because apparently Wednesday nights aren't that busy in retail land.

My favorite part was at the end of the night when I walked around and straightened things. I found sooooo many cute things that I would love to buy. And it turns out that I hate people who put things back in random places across the store. And I'm feeling guilty for all the times I've done that myself (which happens to be a LOT.) Must be cosmic payback.

Half way through the night I did begin to question what I was even doing there and why. But, I think I'll stick it out, for now.

new job= a free apron +all the manner schnitten i want

I start a new part-time job tonight. I figured it was about time to get a new one; I seem to be on a semester schedule for starting new part-time jobs. My latest applications had landed me a position at World Market. I only have to work one night a week so it should be pretty fun.

I used to love to play "store" in my room when I was little so I figure I'll like this at least as much. Of course, I am mostly excited for the apron they are going to give me. I'm a sucker for a new apron. I'll do just about anything.

Plus, I'll get to keep my eye on all of the cool products and then pounce with my discount when I good sale comes around. The goal is to not spend more than I earn which is going to take some discipline considering retail never pays all that much (and I already spotted several things I would like to take home, just in the time that I walked from the front of the store to the back to have an interview and fill out my paperwork.)

I think Regan is almost as excited as I am for the gourmet food section. Our friends just introduced us to an Austrian treat they sell there called "Manner-Schnitten" which is almost as fun to say as it is to eat. Not sure if it's considered gourmet in Austria but Oh my goodness, it is sooo sooo sooo good. To get the best you really need to get the 'Haselnuss-crème mit feinem Milch-Schokolade'. (haha. how's my german, denton?)

So anyway, wish me luck!

i've gone through the change

ew. not like that, silly.

After a lot of trial and error: I changed my template! Finally. I've been meaning to do it for FOREVER but have had a hard time deciding what I wanted. (Surprise.) I thought I better acknowledge the change in a post since everyone is using Google Reader these days. So, here it is, at least for now.

i know what you are thinking:

"Awwwwwe, cuute!" That's what I'm thinking too. I forgot about this picture until I stumbled across it again today. We are going to have the cutest kids someday. Don't you agree?

I probably need to brush up on my punnet squares but I'm convinced that all of our kids will be toe-heads. I guess that's ok with me. As long as they bleed blue. Go cougs!

September 11, 2001

It feels like so long ago that the attacks on the World Trade Center completely changed America. On the one hand I am grateful that it seems like most of us have been able to move forward and carry on. I guess it is a testament that time heals all wounds. Part of me knows that it would be bad to really forget, to feel unaffected. So today, I wanted to remember that day and how it affected me, at the very least.

I was in homeroom when I heard about the first plane crash; I was a Junior. I was wearing a I Love NY t-shirt that I had gotten in the city just two weeks before. I had been in the World Trade Center then, too. I remember walking down the hall and some boy made some comment about the irony of me wearing that shirt that day and for some reason I felt embarrassed. There was a lot of confusion and speculation. There were rumors that the father of one of the teachers at my school worked in the World Trade Center. I remember feeling relieved that no one I was close to was in NY. We watched the news in 4th period and that is when we saw the second plane hit.

The news was on constantly at my house for the next few days and I was absorbed in it. Although, I couldn't take my eyes off the screen, I knew could move on from what happened with little changing my day-to-day activities. Sometimes I almost feel like I shouldn't be allowed to say that it affected my life when I think of all the people who were in NY that day or whose family and friends were there. Those people who survived the chaos, the lack of information, the constant "why me?" were the ones who were allowed to do that. But I know now that somehow in many ways it changed my life forever, too. I can't pinpoint it exactly (besides the obvious changes in airline regulations which seems too slight to even be worth mentioning) but I think it changed my way of thinking, even if only subconsciously. There was life before 9/11 and there was life after 9/11 and both were very different.

I felt especially comforted to hear the words of the Prophet during the next few days. And as I reread his words today, I feel the same.

"God loves us. He loves his children and he will provide for us. I have no doubt of that. We face terrible sorrows. None of us can understand the enormity, the tension of those on those planes, for instance, who were headed for crashes. None of us can understand those, the feelings of those innocent people in those buildings, which were taken down. But with all of that, for those who are left, for those who are wounded, I bring you a message of peace and hope and comfort. That comfort which comes not from man, but from God Himself, who is the father of us all and who loves us...But I have no doubt, none whatever, of the fact that life is eternal, that we are immortal beings and that when we step over the threshold from this life to the next, it will be for those who do that, a pleasant and uplifting and wonderful experience...

I have an absolutely solid faith concerning the eternity of life, concerning the fact that we're all sons an daughters of God, regardless of our religious persuasion, regardless of our nationality. We're sons and daughters of God.

He expects good things of us. He expects us to live lives of accountability and the right kind of pursuits, not to be destructive, not to be evil, but to rise above these terrible things and depart ourselves in a manner that will bless mankind and bring to pass that peace which all the world longs for. "

President Gordon B. Hinckley on Larry King Live.

my life is so hard... except not really

That's right, I had a bad day today. I don't even want to go into the details of the day because I am SO over it so I'll just leave it at that. 

But even if I did list out each reason of why I thought it was a bad day, most of you would tell me to get over myself and quit being a sissy 'cause life could be a LOT worse. So I'm going to go work on that now. 

The ironic thing is that the part of my day that I should legitimately be able to complain about didn't really phase me. (I'll credit that to Regan's purely glass-half-full mentality.)  At nearly the end of my bad day Regan called me to say that his car was broken down. Not only was I not even surprised but I wasn't frantic either, like perhaps I had good excuse to be. We got it towed and we'll figure out the rest tomorrow. 

The silver lining of this all is that I realized that every once in a while I might just have a rotten day, I'll get in a good cry (maybe go get a diet coke), and then I'll know that the day has to end at some point and that things are bound to look up tomorrow. 

So here is to a brighter tomorrow. I'll drink to that.

when the cat's away...

...the mouse goes to work parties stag.

When I was a Jr. in high school I was all alone one day, it was a school holiday and my parents were out of town or something (it should be quite obvious by now that I have a failing memory) but I was really excited because I decided to go to a movie. Alone. The movie was lame, and I was the only one in the theater but it was one of the most exciting things for me. I don't know how to explain it, I'm sure it sounds crazy.

Anyway, the point of that tangent was that Regan was double-booked with work/school stuff tonight so I braved going to my work party sans my better half. Aren't I a brave little toaster? I actually was a little nervous; I don't go to many functions like that alone. Even before I was married I usually dragged a roommate/friend to any social event I wanted to go to. It was kinda weird to go alone but I'm kinda geeky and I like to do stuff by myself every once in a while. It makes me feel independent and empowered. Or something. And, I genuinely had a good time socializing outside of the 9-5. AND there was an open bar which is totally awesome. Haha, just kidding! But I think could have filled my tank with amount of diet coke I drank. Which might explain why it's almost 12:45 am and I'm still twitching.

And in case you are wondering, Wake Wives was fun too. We met at Kernal Kustards, (place in town that sells gourmet popcorn and custard. Creative, huh?) and it was fun to catch up with some of the girls I haven't seen since school let out and meet some of the new wives.

And since I'm giving you a blow by blow of my life, I also went to costco. I bought milk, bread, and a watermelon (but not spinach because it was on the outs). Is TMI a side effect of too much caffeine?

As my niece, Leo, would say, "I'm out."

baby cash

Reg and I drove to Charlotte yesterday to go to my cousin's baby's blessing. Stephanie and Chip's baby, Cash, was too cute in his little white suit with matching blue cummerbund and tie. We thought Charlotte was beautiful, I'm glad we finally made it down to see where they live.

It was fun to get to see my favorite girls while we were there, even if it was just for a few hours. Bonus: We scored some Trader Joe's green salsa (best EVER). Gracias Chels for stocking us up.

Congrats Chip and Stephanie!

p.s. completely off the topic, BUT does anyone think i should get bangs? this picture makes me think i should try it. my neighbor/friend/hair dresser has said that i should but i'm such a chicken! i've gone as far as pinning my hair to try and visualive it... but still, i'm gutless. i'm almost positive that as soon as i do it i will regret it. i'll probably just continue talking about it for the next few months (like i have for the past few months) and then still not do it.

ok, I'm done

And now we can talk about it. I'll just say that I liked this MUCH MUCH more than the previous three. I thought the ending was a little too perfect, but I still really enjoyed it. I no longer hate Bella and I will finally admit that I'm glad that Bella chose Edward over Jacob.

Wishing I had some other good book to go home to tonight... oh well. At least, I have Wake Wives!

best day of my week

And not just because it's Friday. That's nice and all but add a fabulous/easy lunch on a Friday and you've got a winning combination.

Earlier this week I rekindled my love affair with my george foreman. I am as shocked as the next guy. I didn't foresee pulling that thing out for a LONG time. I bought it during my sophomore year at BYU when I was first starting to really cook for myself everyday (or every other day. or every other other day.) Then I got burned out on it because is a PAIN to clean. And I'm lazy. (Suz: Former live former life!) Regan can attest to the fact that I am anti hand washing things; I like to put EVERYthing in the dishwasher. 

But this week, Regan and I have been making homemade panini* and as you can imagine, I am totally smitten. (With the sandwiches.) A few times we have used some fancy bread from Fresh Market but really even my regular wheat bread from Costco does the trick. They are so easy to make and clean-up. I couldn't ask for more. I know its not a novel idea but you know how I hate always trying to come up with meal plans.

Here's my Equation:

A thin layer of Classico pesto sauce on one slice of bread

+ a handful of spinach

+ two slices of tomato (yes, I'm even having the tomatoes)

+a sprinkling of grated cheese

+ shredded chicken (if its a fancy night) or deli sliced lunch meat (on a regular day)

= Heaven. 

I'm a simple girl. If you couldn't tell, it really doesn't take that much to make me happy.

*Btw, I just learned from wikipedia that panini is the plural form of the word. Singular form: panino.  Huh. I never knew.

Drill Baby Drill

I didn't watch the whole Republican National Convention last night. Shame on me, I know. I was lame and reading Breaking Dawn. (I just started it so don't post any comments PLEASE. I was shocked when the library sent me a notice that my time on the waiting list was up. I guess it's the demographic of my county. The people here just aren't quite as excited about vampire love as the rest of us.) But I did catch the end of the convention which I assume was the most important part. 

And I was really excited by Palin's speech. (Although, maybe not as much as my brother or this guy. ) I thought her delivery was excellent and the content substantial. 

Even though I liked her sassy jabs at Obama, my favorite part of the entire night was when camera cut to a shot of Palin's family and there was cute, little Piper Palin licking her palm and smoothing her baby brother's wispies. Hysterical. Oh, and Cindy is just looking so classy these days, don't you think?

And does anyone else wish you could just do this when people start spouting off stuff you don't want to listen to? 

All in all it was excellent and I am really geared up to support this election. I credit that to Palin. Drill Baby Drill! (Btw, have I mentioned that I met McCain back when I was campaigning in Vegas in 2004? Just thought I'd toot my own horn.) 

my designs on a dime

Here are a few of the projects that I was working on while Regan was in UT a few weeks ago. I think I am most proud of the wall art... done by yours truly (with a little help from my equally talented spouse.) In retrospect, computer paper really isn't the best medium for water color paintings but whatever. It works. I probably shouldn't tell this but I love a good deal too much not to: I got all four frames for $2. Amazing. We actually did the paintings one day while we were in Richmond and I had a need for releasing some creative energy.

I can remember when I was in HS I used to get to the point where I felt like I just *NEEDED* to craft something. I don't really get those same urges as often these days... I like to blame it on all that cooking I do. Haha. Sometimes I really like to get those creative juices flowing but somehow the monotony of "what should I make for dinner?" annihilates the urge. I guess I didn't do as much cooking, or thinking about cooking, while I was in RIC because one day I had the urge to paint these beauties. I've affectionately named the grouping Big Poppy: (these hang in our hall bath)

(And I realize that the paintings look a little crooked in this picture, but they are not. It's your eyes. You should really get that checked out. Also, if you aren't impressed with my artistic abilities- shame on you. I'll blame it on my camera quality.)

ANYWAY, I also stained this table that I made my junior year of high school. I found it in my parents attic while we were living with them for the summer. My conversation with Regan went some thing like this*:

Me: Oh, look at this table! I think I made it.

Regan: Really?

Me: I think I did. I kind of don't remember but I think I made it in high school.

Regan: Wow.

Me: No, Regan, I think I actually made this! I mean, who else would have made it? I think it was my final project in wood shop. No, I remember now. I did make it! But I never finished staining it because I thought that I might want to paint it red and then I was afraid of painting it red and hating it. This is MY table!

Regan: This is really good. I can't believe you made it. (Then he really checked it out... you know like tapping on it and stuff.)

Me: I know! It was a lot of hard work, but I did it. I am so awesome. This table is awesome. And now we can have a coffee table. For free!

And there you have it. We weren't really looking for a coffee table. And I don't even really love oak. But when you realize that you forgot that you even made a table and then you stumble across it in your parent's attic and remember that it was in your car when you got pulled over for having expired tags on your car (so it should definitely fit on the slightly larger car that you drive now)... you don't really have much of a choice.

*Obviously, when a girl can barely remember that she made something totally awesome and useful--she's not going to remember something small like the actual details of a conversation that took place about that totally awesome and useful thing. But I think I captured the mood of the discourse pretty well.

I'm a little bummed that I forgot to take the before picture my table sans all the stain and finish... but c'est la vie. Now if I can just resist the urge to put my feet on it.

Keepin' it Real since 1981

As you can tell, August is a busy month for our little family of two. And yesterday was one of the best days of the month because Regan had a birthday! 

We celebrated with some presents, a trip to the gym, a stop at Fresh Market to pick up some gourmet food, and some Olympics. We topped the night off by having some friends over for cheesecake + cherry topping.  (I got the recipe from Martha Stewart and it turned out pretty good, esp. for how easy it was.)

Happy B-day Regan. I'm glad you were born. 

Guess who's back?

Welcome back,  welcome back, welcome back!

Hahahaha. This picture cracks me up every time I look at it. 

And yes, I am bored at work today. 

And yes, I have had FAR too much time on my hands this week. 

And yes, I do need to work on my photoshop skills. 

But you get the point. Enjoy!

Best Two Years

This song came on as I drove to work today. Naturally, I blasted it for my entire commute. Too bad my commute only lasted 2/3 of the way through the song. I looked it up once I got into my cubicle this morning because I thought it was a good theme song for the day. (And you know I can't resist a good theme song on Repeat. Especially since I've been working on my 'moves' in my Zumba class at the gym... LOVE that class.)

Because, (drum roll please) as of today, Regan and I have officially been married for two years. HOW CRAZY! I feel like I blinked my eyes and here we are. Although the time has flown by, I can't believe all that has changed in our lives.

On our anniversary last year we pulled into our new town at 10 pm at night and Regan was to start school two days later. We had no idea where we were going to live, what our new city was like, where I would work, etc. The whole thing was definitely scary although a little exciting, too. Little by little we've been making this place feel a little more like home. When I think back to how things have turned out so far for us I am amazed at how blessed we have been in so many ways, probably more than we deserve. I am so grateful that I have Regan in my life and I hope he never leaves me alone for a week again. haha, jk. But I am looking forward to picking him up from the airport tomorrow. 

I think the 2nd year has been even better than the first. Here's to a billion, trillion more!

Sweatin' with the Oldies

I swear Richard Simmons was teaching the class I went to at the gym yesterday. I thought I was going to a class called 'Burnout' but some how I ended up in step aerobics. I've been to all different sorts of classes before but I usually pass on the step aerobics but I decided to give it a go since I was already there and the class was starting. My instructor wasn't wearing the tank top and he didn't exactly have the same hair-do but everything else was spot on.

The entire time I was trying not to laugh as I attempted to V-Step, mambo in the back, travel the world, skip turn, straddle up, straddle down, etc. The class only had 6 people in it and I was by far the youngest and least experienced.

The best part was at the end, when I was putting all of my gear away, the old guy next to me told me not to worry because they had all been doing this for a long time. (I guess he must have noticed that I was a little slow when it comes to learning choreographed moves. Or maybe he just saw me take a pass every time they did the the skip-step. I'm sorry but I just didn't like skipping around my bench!)

While the class was very entertaining, I think I'll try a new yoga class tonight instead.

Three Dog Night had it right

`Cause one IS the loneliest number. This morning (at 5:00 AM) I shipped Regan off to visit his family in UT for a week. Don't worry, I'm not sitting at home bawling my eyes out. (Not yet anyway. heh) I am going to miss having him around for the next 7 days but I am really excited that he gets to go see everyone and maybe get a little Cafe Rio at some point. He deserves a fun trip after all the hard work he has done this past year. I know he is excited to beat everyone at badminton, eat all of his mom's good food, and get reacquainted with the mountains. Have fun in Zion, Regan!

As I crawled back into bed this morning at 5:30 AM I realized the silver lining to my new-found independence. A whole bed to myself without interruption really isn't too bad every once in a while. In fact,  I think I might just use his pillow too.

I've got a few projects on my to-do list while he is gone, including but not limited to: organizing the office (again), doing some light decorating (this one never really goes off my list), staining the coffee table I made in high school, trying out some new classes at the gym, and watching lots and lots of dumb girly movies. Now if only the whole work thing didn't get in the way of all my fun. Siiigh.

ps- nice picture, huh? haha, I've been playing with the camera on my new work computer all morning. I'm IN LOVE with this MacBook Pro.

If you can can can

We went peach picking with my brother Denton and his family a few weeks ago. It was a blast. Now I am just wishing that we had picked more. Highlight of the day: Regan lifted Leo up to pick some peaches off of the highest branch of a tree and she dropped all the peaches on his head. I might be alone in this but I thought it was SO funny.

Then last Saturday we went to Denton's and he taught me how to can. It was so fun, and I am now all about it. I can't wait to have a garden. I'm ready to invest in my very own canner. Or at least I am at the point where I actually have a desire to own one. Who knows how long it will be before I actually bite the bullet. (Remember how long it took me to get a new crock pot after that whole saga?)

Oh, and maybe Regan is the only one who has heard me say that I want a popcorn popper for the last 8 months... but I got one! Turns out my dad had a spare. I could die happy.

4th of July

We missed going to the annual balloon launch in Provo this year but we still had an excellent Independence day. Here we are at the Richmond canal where we went on a little tour of the river district. (Not pictured is me deciding to follow Regan down a grassy hill, taking a fall, and exposing myself to all on this cute little boat. Nice.)
As you can see my mom had a raucous time on the cruise.


Of course we had to get a "girls" picture...notice my mom sporting Regan's shades, I thought it really completed the picture.

After the canal we came back to my parents for a cookout. I attempted to make Regan's mom's layered jigglers. They didn't turn out quite as perfect as her's (surprise) but not too bad for my first attempt, I thought.

Happy Birthday Whitefish!

Update

I found a job. Horray! I can't believe that I found a job so perfect for such a short amount of time. Briefly, I thought I was going to have to go back to NC to work at my real job. (My boss found some work for me, which was totally nice, but I was dreading being there by myself and driving back and forth every weekend.) But, somehow things have a way of working out at the last minute for Regan and me. You'd think we'd be better with the whole patience thing. (We're getting there.)

Actually, I just finished my first week and so far so good. I am "babysitting" for a family that lives like a mile from my parents house. I say "babysitting" in quotes but the family has three girls: twin ten year-olds and a twelve year-old... so its not really babysitting. More like, hanging out, making sure they do their chores, and driving them to whatever fun activity we have planned for the day. It is so much fun. So far we have gone to the pool, ice skating, the library, and the park for a picnic/mini hike. Today is baking day... we are going to walk to the grocery store and then make homemade pizza. I may just decided to never go back to my other job.

Regan's job is going well, too. It sounds like he has gotten to do some cool stuff. Today he is at the prison... he told me not to be too surprised if he doesn't come home. Everyday I am amazed at how different his days are. I am sure it is a welcome change from classes.

Oh, while I'm in the mode of updating, I guess I will mention that I started wearing my retainers again... haha, yes I know you were all dying to know. It was pretty rough the first couple of nights because my teeth have shifted quite a bit... but the jaw pain that I was having has mysteriously disappeared, so that is good. I'm still not any better at talking with them in... but I think I sound THO THO THEXY. I just feel like I am getting so in touch with my middle school past. Hanging out at Skate Nation, wearing retainers, spending lots of time with 5th and 6th graders, etc. (Did I mention that they are also girl scouts? We can REALLY relate.)

We Moved!

Okay, we didn't really move... more like we are on an extended vacation. Except that hopefully we will both be working. Regan started working today for an attorney in Richmond and it sounds like he is going to get a ton of hands-on experience. I'm not positive what I will be doing...still working on that. We moved in with my parents yesterday and we are both excited to be doing something new. And I'm also excited because my parents have cable : )

Of course I am looking forward to my usual stops:

The Byrd Theater. (Though the seats may be slightly uncomfortable, you can't beat a $2 movie... with an opener that features and organist that emerges from beneath the stage!)

The "fancy" Arby's as we like to call it. Yes there is such a thing. And yes, they do have hedges trimmed in the shape of animals in the parking lot. I haven't been back here my last few visits but I feel like it should at least get a shout out on the blog.

Monument Avenue. That's all I have to say about that.

Pony Pasture. It is a rite of passage for all those who come to visit, I think.

My alma mater... gotta stop by good ole Mills E. Godwin. Or at least take a jog on the track...

Stony Point Mall. Okay, this is a picture of some other random child I found on google (scary, I know) but it looks similar to some pics I had of my nieces that got deleted off my computer so I figured it was ok to borrow. Evie turned 3 yesterday so we are having a party at the mall for her today. The fountain at SPM is really fun... for kids, not so much for me. I just like going to Anthropology.

Short Pump Town Center. Its funny that I'm excited for the malls considering I don't have any extra money to spend right now... but it will be nice to have an Apple Store nearby. And of course I always love to stop in at H&M.



Ukropies! I love love love going to Ukrop's any time of the day. Best grocery store ever. (Although, I will say that my Harris Teeter is close in the running b/c it has much better sales.) Except that I think Ukrops is more than Just a grocery store. The cafe has such yummy food and their desserts are my favorite. I tell everyone how great Ukrop's is but you really can't fully appreciate it until you go there yourself.

Wish me luck on my quest to find summer employment!

OBX 2008

We had such a fun time at the beach with my family. It was a major bummer coming home and having to get back to reality. I wish we could go on a permanent vacation.

Some highlights (in no particular order):

1) Probably my favorite conversation of the week was on the first night when I was sitting in the living room with Denton and Leo. Leo was telling me that she liked math and Denton told her she should show me her math skills. Leo said ok and then turned to me and said "Twenty" in this hilarious-dramatic- almost seductive voice. I laughed about it all week long.

2) Burying the kids in the sand... and Regan too! (Sorry, Regan jumped up just before his picture was taken b/c one of the kids accidentally kicked sand into his mouth :)3) Braving the freezing water at the beach. It wasn't so bad by the end of the week, or maybe we just got used to it. Next time we want to bring boogy boards. I know you are dying to see pics of Regan and I at the beach but I couldn't find any of us from and when we went with the kids and although we went several other times, we never brought our camera. We also didn't take our camera when we went to the light house and met some really nice Mennonites. (Also a highlight.) Maybe next time?

4) Making "the best chicken tacos my dad has ever had". I don't have a picture of the tacos but here is Clayton making the salsa.5) Taking the beach cruisers for a spin with Regan (it has been YEARS since I rode a bike and yet I could still do it!) and now I totally want to buy a bike- with a bell and a basket. I do have a picture of me on the bike but I have not uploaded it... I'll have to add that one later. Or maybe you can just imagine it.

6) Playing Big Booty, the strip game, and mafia... ok, not really mafia, I guess... but I felt like I should just put it down to document that we did it. But mostly, just getting to hang out with my crazy family.7) Taking this hilarious picture of Evie during the road rally:
8) Getting to play with all of my nieces and nephews and getting to meet my newest niece, Tess. By the end of the week I was even getting used to waking up that early : )9) Watching Felix try to play anyone and every one at Chess. (Here he is teaching 2 year old Maddox how to play.)10) Girl time.
11) Thanks to Clayton, I realized that I forgot to add "Johns" to the list. Not necessarily the best milkshake I've ever had (although definitely one the of pricier) but getting to hang out with Clayton is always a good time. We went here on Saturday afternoon and by that time most of my family had already started for home. We spent the last afternoon/night hanging out and talking with Denton, Marissa, Clayton and his friends which of course was a nice way to end the very eventful week.
I can't wait for next year's reunion!!