the elders

Surprise visit to Utah

2011-08-05T20:15:00.000-07:00

Wow, I feel like it's been a long time since I've blogged! My entire life is consumed by Drake (which I love), so the majority of my pictures are of him. I hardly ever post on facebook because I don't want to be that person who posts about their kids all the time! I feel like nothing I would say would be all that interesting... "Drake is rocking on his hands and knees now! Only a matter of time before he crawls!"

So, I've decided I can post as much as I want about Drake on my blog since it's like my journal in many ways! So be prepared!

Utah

Me, Dan, and Drake took a weekend trip to Utah to visit Dan's mom and family the weekend of the 24th. The 24th, which is Pioneer Day, is a holiday in Utah, so we felt it would be perfect to visit. Dan's mom hadn't seen Drake since he was just a week old, so we were really excited. The trip was such a blast, and we really needed to get away. Drake got the chance to meet Dan's mom and Trent, Colton and Raquel (Trent's kids), Carissa and her family, Annie and her family (Riot is just 10 days older than Drake), and also see uncle Ben again. He also met Dan's grandparents. I barely held Drake the entire time we were there... everyone wanted to hold him and play with him! I felt like Drake got so much attention that his little personality bloomed on that trip. He really loved everyone so much... makes me wonder if we should move to Utah in the future?

I love that we live in AZ around my family, however, they are all in the growing family stage, and that means Drake does not get attention showered upon him. Dan is the oldest in his family (and the favorite ; ) I might add), so naturally, his first child will get loads of attention! Plus, Dan's family is very gregarious, full of energy, and loving, so even Annie who has a new baby spent time holding Drake a lot of the time. It was really nice to just sit back and watch Drake interact with everyone in the family. I'm really hoping we'll be able to spend Christmas in Utah this year!

Here are a few pictures from the trip...

I grew up with this picture in our living room. It is one of my favorites. In the conference center, which we took a tour of, they had all original paintings. I had no idea this one was so huge!

Drake and his cousin Riot (Annie's baby). These boys spent most of the time together.

Dan is holding Riot. I just love the online editing website picnik. I could spend hours playing around on that site!

Temple square

Drake slept on my chest both flights to and from Utah. I heard taking off and landing hurt babies ears, so I nursed him on takeoff, and he fell asleep, slept the entire time, and didn't wake up until we were down stairs at the rental car area! It took Drake a little more time to fall asleep on the flight home, but he eventually zonked out.

My sweet boy...

My stripling soldiers. This is one of my favorite stories from the Book of Mormon.

Sick boy

Drake had a fever for two days a couple of days ago. I thought that maybe he was teething, but he is still toothless! His little body must have been fighting off something. Even though he had a fever, he was still a happy boy...

This is my makeshift playpen on our bed that I made with pillows. I don't think it will last for long!

I kept Drake cool with a moist washcloth on his little forehead. He was really still when I put it on. It must have felt really nice. It is scary when babies have fevers. I would wake up to him next to me with burning hot hands and feet touching me.

I'm glad he's all better now!!

I can't wait till we get sealed to Drake in the temple <3

The SLC temple is so beautiful!

Picnik

Here is some evidence that I spend way too much time on picnik...

Pregnant nice vampire

Pregnant evil vampire!

2011-05-09T13:03:00.000-07:00

My first mother's day was wonderful! Church was great, except Drake did not want to sit in my lap, and he was a very wiggly boy. But he looked oh so handsome in his new church outfit. I was a little disappointed in our bishopric for not doing anything special for the mothers. I had never been in a ward where they do not hand the mothers a rose, or something sweet after sacrament meeting on mother's day.

This has been the first mother's day where I am not a complete emotional wreck. My thoughts are always about my own mother, but this time around I am a new mother myself. I only wish to be half the mom my mother was to me. She is the greatest example I know of what a mother should be. Mom was my best friend, and I cannot wait to see her again.

On Saturday morning, Dan woke up hours before I did and was very quiet. I didn't hear any video games or guitar, and I was very curious as to what he was doing. When I woke up, there was a trail of starburst all throughout the house. One trail led to Drake's car seat on the floor, and there was a hershey bar underneath. The other led to under the couch where my favorite candy, fun dip, was stuffed. And the last trail led to Drake's nursery where I found a bouquet of spring flowers, a card, and Eclipse. Dan doesn't think he is very creative or romantic, but he proved himself wrong!

On Sunday after church Dan took care of Drake for me, which included changing all his diapers. I told Dan I would like the house to be nice and cool for mother's day (it is always too hot for me most days), and that I would like him to watch Eclipse with me. I read my book quite a bit when Drake took his nap (I'm reading The Host for the 3rd time), and after Drake was asleep for the night, I had to write and turn in a paper (which was a drag...it was about historical and scientific perspectives on homosexuality. Blah!).

I absolutely love being a mother. It is my favorite thing I have ever done in my life, and it is my life! I have zero complaints about it, and no regrets. It is so much fun to watch your child grow and discover his personality. I cannot stop kissing my baby's chubby cheeks and nuzzling his little neck. He has started to giggle (mostly at Dan...jealous). He touches my face with his warm little hands. Sometimes when he's asleep at night, I'll tiptoe into the bedroom just to lean down and put my head near his; I love to see his out-of-proportion body sleeping there: his big head (which has started to bald), small shoulders, big diaper butt, and dimply short legs. I kiss his forehead and smell his sweet milky breath. I am totally enchanted by him, my little boy.

Happy mother's day to all you mamas out there!

straw hats...

2011-04-21T12:02:00.000-07:00

I just had to get this little easter hat for Drake. He smiles at himself in the mirror when he's wearing it!

Drake is such a happy boy!

My boys...

drake's blessing day.

2011-03-08T18:19:00.000-08:00

Dan gave baby Drake such a beautiful blessing. Drake was so good before and after the blessing; smiling and cooing at me and Dan. He got a little upset at his hiccups during sacrament, so we had to get up and stand next to the doors for a while. When we got home, family came over for a little luncheon.

Toward the end of the luncheon, Drake was so exhausted from being up all day with the excitement. He didn't like the bumbo very much. He sure did look cute in it though!

All in all, the day was perfect.

I love this little boy!

Belly pictures

2011-02-24T09:09:00.000-08:00

For the longest time, I didn't have any way to post my pictures because Dan lost his USB cord. Well, a couple of days ago we finally bought one! So now I can post pictures that I wanted to long ago.

This trip to Huntington was a little rough because I had morning sickness, and nothing sounded good to eat. For those who know me, that is my favorite part of the vacation. I was barely pregnant here.

For my 26th birthday, Dan and I stayed at a resort, went to The Melting Pot, and Dan took me shopping! I think I'm 4 months pregnant here.

It's funny to look at these and see how I'm not showing very much at all. At the time, I thought I was getting so big!

This was when I started to really poke out.

Here I am, about to pop. Towards the end, I had bad swelling! My legs and feet were embarrassingly huge. That ornament is a plumeria ornament my sweet mom brought back for me from her anniversary trip with dad to Oahu. It is special to me.

Pregnancy was horrible at first because of the nausea and the acid reflux, but that soon went away (the nausea at least!). When I first felt little flutterings in my belly I was so excited because I finally felt like I was pregnant, even though I wasn't showing yet. I felt so thick in the beginning months, I wanted to show so badly because I didn't like how I just looked fat! I always thought it was funny how in the movies, the pregnant women said, "I'm so fat!" all the time when they didn't look it. Well now I know what they meant because you just feel fat!

It's exciting when strangers look at you, smile, and say, "How far along are you?", or "What are you having?"

Hearing the heartbeat at the doctors always brought me such relief and always put a smile on my face.

Seeing the baby at the ultrasound appointments was so special because I could actually see the little guy moving in there!

People always asked me if I had any cravings during my pregnancy. I never did. I ate a lot of grapes and ice cream, but I didn't crave them necessarily. I have more cravings now that he is born, and I am breast feeding. I can't get enough Squirt soda.

One of the perks I noticed right away was being blessed with an ample bosom, as you can see in the 2nd picture. Hello!

I really missed lying on my stomach and flat on my back. It feels so good to now!

It's a weird thing not to be able to see your feet.

The baby kicks began to get pretty violent there at the end. Something was constantly wedged in my ribs on the right side, which got pretty painful. Oh yeah, and the constant urge to pee was torture.

It was all worth it because I got this little boy.

Catching Up

2011-02-23T22:57:00.000-08:00

It's time to catch up on life! My baby Drake is now 8 weeks old, and I am the happiest girl in the world. So, I will start with Thanksgiving... just three months ago.

Thanksgiving

I remember Thanksgiving well. I was in some serious pain because I had eaten too much. Room in the stomach is very limited when you are 7 months pregnant!

Baby Shower

My baby shower was so fun! We had yummy food and treats, and even hot cocoa! It was so nice of everyone to come.

Mickey made me this diaper tower/cake, and I am still using these diapers to this day! Thanks Mickey!

The shower was at Christine's beautiful home. Christine, Connie, Jenny, and Mickey did such a great job throwing the best baby shower ever. I'm glad my two favorite girls, Abbey and Stella, were able to come to my shower as well.

"D" Day

Here I am looking refreshed before Drake was born. I had only been in labor for an hour or so. My water had broken around 10:00 pm while Dan and I were watching Rambo II. The movie selection was not my choice! This was taken down stairs before they took me up to the nice Maternity area. The nurse behind me gave me the most painful experience in my life. It was worse than everything combined during the whole labor and delivery. I shiver just thinking about it. She checked me to see how much I had dilated and effaced. That's all I gotta say about that!

And here I am after delivering Drake. Notice the haggardness? I was in labor for 12 hours total, and pushed for 45 minutes. Soon after I got into my room before Drake was born, I was given the epidural, which didn't even hurt at all. Connie and Christine slept in the room on the floor, poor souls! The nurse kept coming in to change my positioning so that the numbness was distributing evenly throughout my lower body, so I didn't get a very good nights rest either. Dan was snoozing on the couch. Christine had to leave to drop off her car, and we were worried she would miss Drake being born, but she made it! Connie and Dan had each of my legs (since I couldn't feel anything), and Christine was taking pictures. It is so hard to push out a baby! I was not prepared for that. Maybe it was extra hard because of Drake's hair!

My beautiful, healthy baby boy. Words cannot express how life changes and becomes so much sweeter after you become a mother.

My sweet sisters, who are always there for me. Thank you Connie and Christine!

One of my favorite moments after a baby is born is when they get their first bath. They almost always cry. Drake stopped crying when his hair was being washed, it was so cute! He was really enjoying it. He still loves it to this day.

We were in the hospital a couple of days extra because the doctor was worried Drake had an infection in his umbilical cord. They had to put an IV in his poor little arm and keep him in the nursery to give him antibiotics. All the blood cultures came back normal, thank goodness. Because we stayed for a few more days, we celebrated New Years in the hospital. Christine brought a bag of goodies for me and Dan including Martinelli's sparkling cider. Thanks Christine! Baby Drake was my first kiss of 2011.

Welcome home baby!

Family Pictures

2010-11-30T18:45:00.000-08:00

Here are a few of the individual family pictures that we took when we were taking the Webb family pictures. Thanks to the magic of editing pictures, I was able to make myself look a little less like Courtney Love and a few pounds lighter!

We can't wait to meet Drake and hold him in our arms!

Halloween 2010

2010-10-29T15:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, it's about time I update a little so that we all don't have to keep looking at that freaky kid! These pictures were taken from facebook, so they are not the best quality. I have more that I just haven't uploaded to my computer yet. But for now, here are a few.

Me and Dan were invited to a housewarming/halloween party a couple of days ago. It was a murder mystery, so we all had to dress like our 1920's character. Dan was Jon Jacobs, the murdered man's best friend, and I was Bob Bucks, the murdered man's accountant. We all had to be in character, so we were acting pretty much the whole night. I gotta tell you, I suck at acting! I guess I wasn't feeling the character very much! And I didn't really know the people there very well. Dan was taking his role very seriously. I would go over to him and try to talk to him and he'd ask, "Are you in character, or my wife right now?". I got a kick out of that! Dan looked so cute in his little gettup... like a newsie! I won best costume... I think people liked my shoes, which you can't see. They are my Betsey Johnson black and white shoes that I love so much. The hat was pretty sweet too. It was a fun night!

Watch this!

2010-09-21T17:31:00.000-07:00

This kid is so creepy! I think he must be a midge because he's so weird looking!
I don't know Connie, maybe we should post our Land Down Under lip-synching video to youtube. What do you think; )

It's a...

2010-08-25T09:34:00.000-07:00

BOY!

Boy oh boy what a surprise.

I convinced myself that it was a girl for sure.

Dan claims he always knew it was a boy.

I have never seen Dan so happy: )

baby boy's profile

Baby boy's name will be

Drake Lee Elder

Above is a picture I am going to paint for the baby's nursery. It will set the theme of his room nicely!

I am 4 months along (19 weeks).

Baby is 10 oz and in perfect health.

I think that I can feel him move but I'm not sure.

What a little miracle it is to grow a baby in my belly: )

So long, XS

2010-08-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

When I first started this blog in June 2007 I had just been hired at XS Salon and Spa. I loyally stayed with them for over 3 years through endless rumors of closing, bouncing paychecks (mine never bounced), down sizing, and new hires. When I got hired there, mom was still alive (but not the same b/c of the accident). XS was a place for me to forget about the world and my life. I really did love it there, and I loved everyone I worked with (which is why I stayed so long). It was a sanctuary for me in many ways, and I will always be grateful that they hired me years ago. So, when I came into work on a regular Wednesday, it came as a huge shock to find out they really were closing for good... the next day! Thankfully, our Salon Manager got in contact with a newer salon/spa and got a lot of us in there. I thank my lucky stars that they needed an Aesthetician... otherwise I would probably be unemployed right now! All of the XS employees received a printout of their clients and phone numbers... mine was 23 pages! For 2 days I had Stephanie (who was my lifesaver) call all of my regular clients and let them know where I was. Salon G. Literally right down the road from XS. My clients have been coming in to see me, thank goodness, and I have been pretty busy (considering it is summertime=slowtime). It has been a very smooth transition.

Salon G is like a breath of fresh air compared to XS. Don't get me wrong, XS was a beautiful place, but Salon G is so bright and airy and cheery. It was time for a change. Everyone should come in and see the place!

RIP XS

Pregnancy

2010-06-15T15:32:00.000-07:00

I gotta admit... I do not like being pregnant. I have been told things get better the 2nd trimester, so I am looking forward to that! I have morning sickness. Not just in the morning, but all day. Yep, I feel like a cancer patient going through chemo. Hopefully by week 13 (I am at week 9) the morning sickness will go away like everyone is telling me it will! The other thing people do not tell you is how uncomfortable being pregnant is. Now, I knew I would be uncomfortable like at month 8 and 9, but I never expected to be uncomfortable right now! Never mind the fatigue and the feeling like a weakling... I'm talking about the aches and pains from things growing bigger! I know I should not complain... especially since I am lucky to have a baby growing inside of me in the first place! And I know it will all be so worth it in the end. I just want this dang morning sickness to go away. I've already lost 4 pounds since getting pregnant. Nothing under the sun sounds good to eat. I never know what to make for dinner (resulting in Dan starving). I just have to snack on whatever seems good at the moment. Here are some random things Dan runs to the store for so far...

The Velveeta is the only thing that I can seem to stomach more than once. The Lucky Charms are a no go since I threw them up on Sunday. And I am enjoying some Puff Cheetos as we speak. Do you really want to hear something crazy? I don't even want candy anymore! Sweet stuff never sounds good!

So at 9 weeks, my uterus is the size of a grapefruit, and the baby is the size of a large grape. Come on baby, grow, grow, grow!

My little poppy seed...

2010-05-20T13:52:00.000-07:00

This is the size of my little buddy inside of me: )
Me and Dan are soooooooo excited, and we can't wait to find out if it is a boy or girl.
But for now, my little poppy seed makes me tired, and for the last two days, nauseous.
Bring it on!

DISNEYLAND ADVENTURES

2010-05-02T23:18:00.000-07:00

TO CELEBRATE OUR FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY (YAY!), DAN AND I TOOK A NICE LITTLE TRIP TO CALIFORNIA!

WE SPENT 3 DAYS IN DISNEYLAND/CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE AND HAD A BLAST!

WE HAD SO MUCH FUN...

HOW DID WE NOT GET TIRED OF THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH, YOU ASK?

(DAN'S GOT ME STICKING MY TONGUE OUT NOW)

WELL, FOR ME...

COTTON CANDY OF COURSE

(AND CHURROS, AND ICE CREAM, AND CARAMEL APPLE...)

FOR DAN, MONSTER ENERGY DRINK...

...AND TURKEY LEGS

WE ALSO HAD OUR FUN WITH TAKING FUNNY PICTURES...

(THOSE ARE DAN'S BEAUTIFUL EYES BEHIND THE MASK IF ANYONE'S WONDERING)

DAN WAS SUPER EXCITED TO GET A MAD HATTER HAT...

(GUESS WHAT DAN IS GOING TO BE FOR HALLOWEEN THIS YEAR. YEP, THE MAD HATTER COMPLETE WITH THE PINK LIPSTICK AND WHITE EYELASHES. YESSSSS! PARTY AT OUR HOUSE)

AND JUST WHEN DAN STARTED TO GET BORED, WHAT DID WE DO?

THE MALI-BOOMER!

(THE LINE WAS ALWAYS LESS THAN 10 MINUTES, SO WE RODE THIS RIDE AT LEAST 6 TIMES. WHY WAS THE LINE SHORT? BECAUSE IT'S A TORTUOUS RIDE THAT SHOOTS YOU UP AND DROPS YOU!)

THE WHITEWATER RAFTING RIDE WAS PRETTY COOL TOO

BUT WE GOT WET

(MY HAIR GOT WET... I SHOULD HAVE BEEN SMART AND WORN A HAT LIKE DAY ONE)

FOR OUR ANNIVERSARY DINNER, WE ATE AT THE BLUE BAYOU

THE FOOD WAS PRETTY GOOD, AND WE DID NOT FEEL TOO RUSHED BY OUR WAITRESS. SHE WAS VERY NICE. IT IS A MUST TO GO AT LEAST ONCE IN YOUR LIFETIME.

OH, DISNEYLAND

I LOVE YOU

DAN TURNED 29 ON MARCH 16TH!

BESIDES GETTING CAPER, I GOT DAN A BBQ GRILL

WE HAD AARON AND LAURA OVER FOR SOME STEAKS

AARON AND LAURA GOT DAN TICKETS TO A SPRING TRAINING GAME

THANKS GUYS!

DAN'S THE BEST HUSBAND IN THE WORLD! I'VE NEVER HAD SO MUCH FUN WITH ANYONE IN DISNEYLAND MY WHOLE LIFE!

First Year Anniversary!

2010-04-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe how fast time flies. For our first year anniversary, Dan and I went to California and spent 3 whole days in Disney Land and California Adventure. We had so much fun! On our actual anniversary, we ate at the Blue Bayou in Disney Land. That's the cool restaurant that's inside Pirates of the Caribbean! I have fun pictures to share, but this one will have to do for now...

Look how serious Dan's face is! In the ride you had to aim your little laser gun and hit targets to accumulate points. As soon as Dan saw that I had 30,000 points, he really got down to business!

One of my favorite parts of amusement parks is to see the pictures that were taken during the ride. Whoever invented that was a genius! We laughed pretty hard when we saw this picture.

Here we goooo...

2010-04-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

Weeeeeeeeeee!

**SHIELD YOUR CHILDREN'S EYES**

HAHAHA!

GREETINGS

2010-02-26T13:07:00.000-08:00

It's time to catch up!!

Let's start with the most recent...

Valentines Day was a little weird because it was on a Sunday. But, we had a great day nevertheless. We picked up our new puppy Caper! We also ate smores in our backyard. The fire got a little out of hand... The fire pit might just be for coals, oops!

Introducing the newest member of the Elder family...

Isn't he the cutest? We love him so much! This was taken at the dog park we picked him up at. The breeder was competing in a dog show.

AWWWW

He's actually a really good puppy. He's never had a #2 accident in the house. He is super quiet throughout the night. And he's SMART! The only problem we're having is him chewing on stuff. If you go to Blockbuster on Power/Baseline and rent 'Boondock Saints' you'll see what I mean! He's still getting use to Harry... a dog breeder told me once they get use to each other, Caper will love Harry and protect him! Can't wait for that!

New Years was fun. We went over to Christine and Jareds and had fondue and all kinds of different snacks!

A couple of weeks after new years, some of Dan's family came in to town for the car auction (Dan's mom Karen and her squeeze Trent, Trents kids Colton, Raquel, Dan's bro Ben and Trent's parents). We had a blast with them! I bumped into Cameron at the auction... and I wanted him to see us later on in the day when we were cruising around in the golf cart. I think he would've had a good laugh!

This is my dream car... does that make me a dike? NO! I'm like a Charlie's Angel; ) HAHAHA!!

CHRISTMAS WAS A BLAST!

Picking out our first Christmas tree, buying gifts for each other, making cookies and gingerbread houses... I love it all.

UTAH!

It was freezing in Utah, but it was so much fun. I love visiting Dan's family... they are the coolest people I know!

These are our ugly Christmas vests we wore for family pictures.

Daron (Carissa's husband), Ben (with a sweet olympics vest on), Karen and Carissa, Annie, Trent, Colton holding Gannon (Carissa and Daron's son), and Raquel. Kalen and Tayley aren't in the picture (Carissa and Daron's other kids)

A few pictures of Dan... so hot right now... Dan.

When we go to Utah, it is starting to become tradition to eat at Rodizio Grill! Delish Brazilian restaurant.

Here we are with Mario and his wife Sharly... love them!

Dan and Mario have been BFF's for a long time... Mario was in the car crash that Dan was seriously injured in. Mario can attest to Dan's 'brain scabs'.

We went to Utah in the fall as well. Dan's brother Ben got home from his mission, and also Dan's good friend (and previous roomate) Van was getting married too! Road trip!

Here's Dan and Van. Van and his wife Kim are the coolest!

We stopped at the Manti temple... I'd never been. It's so pretty!

Here's a little treat to make you smile...

Life is good

GUESS WHAT...

2010-02-11T14:36:00.000-08:00

We pick him up on Sunday!!

He's a Mini Australian Shepherd and we CAN'T WAIT!!!

thanksgiving weekend

2009-11-29T20:42:00.000-08:00

Well, to start off... Harry thought Christmas came early this year. That's why he brought a present for me and Dan into the house. A little mini gator! This lizard was huge, and it scared the crap out of me (Christine can attest to that... she heard me scream while I was on the phone with her!). GROSS!

Pre-Thanksgiving at Cameron & Jenny's house

This is baby Levi, who grows up so much every time I see him! I love babies!

We almost got the whole William's fam in this picture...

... and here's Luke. What a cutie!

Dapper Dan, my favorite person EVER!

Our first house guest was Dan's little brother, Ben. He recently got back from his mission in Uruguay. It was fun having him stay with us... and it was cute to watch Dan be 'big brother'. Too much video game playing for my taste, but I had time to blog!

We inherited my Dad's dinner table for a while that seats like 12! We call it our 'feasting table'... it's so rustic and HUGE. We've decided that next year, if we're in town, we are going to have Thanksgiving where we will have a huge feast. Complete with no utensils, renaissance music, lots of velvet... perhaps a jester? Goblets, and raucous laughter... maybe some ale or mead? Haha! How about some wassail?!?

I made us some bananas foster... mmmmMM!

I got this game that is actually pretty fun to play. It's called Hi-Bol... and it's a lot like ski ball. I'm not very good at it, but I will practice when Dan is at work. Haha!

Connie and the kids came over, and of course we had to play hi-bol with them!

Abbey got a 50 all by herself! This is her posing by the board. I'm not sure what she is doing with her hand! Some kind of claw, apparently: ) I love my princess Ab.

We went shopping at San Tan mall the day after Thanksgiving (Dan's bro had never seen an outdoor mall!) They had a snow machine...oooh!

It's snow! Not really, it was bubble foam: )

We didn't actually take pictures on Thanksgiving day... we were having so much fun, we forgot to! Dad and Mickey came over and ate with us on our feasting table... and then we went to see 'Old Dogs', and I laughed pretty hard in some parts.

Right now I'm downloading a TON of Christmas music... I hope I don't get noticed by the government and get arrested for downloading 'free' music! I'm so excited to decorate and get a tree!! We watched Elf tonight to start the holiday spirit: )

CHRISTMAS!!!

Halloween!

2009-11-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

I only have one picture of Halloween on my computer: ( I've been a 'blooser' lately... and I take full responsibility. The problem is that my camera broke, and Dan lost his USB cord, so I can't get any pictures from his camera either! It's very frustrating... you all know how much I love to blog! I still have ton's of pictures to post... from our trip to Utah for Dan's friend's wedding and his little bro coming home from his mission. I also have a ton of pictures that were taken on Christine and Connie's camera... I want those! Buuuut, unfortunately this will have to do for now!

Oh, I do have one picture from our Utah trip! This was taken at Bridal Veil Falls... a very beautiful natural waterfall that isn't actually in the picture: )

Jewel... How could I forget??

2009-08-03T13:31:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago Connie and I saw Jewel in acoustic concert at the Mesa Arts Center... I bought the cheap seats and when we got there I almost wished we took binoculars with us! We were happy to be there though... and I was excited to see Jewel! I had seen one of her concerts on TV one time, and I knew she put on a good show singing all her songs and talking to the audience a lot. The last concert Connie had been to was the Dixie Chicks like 10 years ago... so I made her go with me! PLUS, I told Dan I didn't want him to come with because he might fall in love with Jewel; ) I think he felt like he dodged a bullet!

As we were waiting for Jewel during the intermission, a woman came up to us and told us she was from Camel Country and that she had 2 seats down in the front and asked us if we wanted to go with her! YES! She took 2 other people, a husband and wife, and we got 90 dollar seats for 30 dollars!

Here we are, happy to be there in our cheap seats...

...and here we are in our front row seats!! I think you can see our excitement!

These pictures were taken in our amazing seats... our cheap seats were all the way up top where that man in the red shirt is standing.

Look how close we were to the stage! Connie said when she put my glasses on, she could see Jewel's eye sparkle! Haha! Side note: That guy in front of us with the hat on and his girlfriend were slightly annoying (to say the least)... the curly haired woman to the left asked them to keep it down (him and his girlfriend/wife were arguing), and I couldn't hear what he said to her... but he gave her a hard time. Even Gwen from Camel Country apologized to us because she took us down to sit behind annoying people. How did white trash people afford 90 dollar seats?

Jewel was amazing... at one point (or maybe several), Connie and I got a little choked up! I'd say she's right up there with Celine Dion as far as vocal range and sound. I LOVE JEWEL!

Married Life!

2009-07-28T08:48:00.000-07:00

Married life has been GREAT! Dan is such a good husband, and my best friend... and he's a saint for putting up with a demanding and slightly spoiled wife... spoiled with love; )

Dan is from Washington and Utah, so the heat is not his favorite!! But he's a trouper. Here he is at a pool party with a grilled steak in-hand (his favorite!). I am slowly breaking him of his habit of sticking out his tongue in all pictures... but he still looks cute!

Now because Dan and I got married so quickly, we didn't have much time to get a home. So, we stayed in my roommates house in my room for about a month (haha!), and while we were waiting for our house to close (we put offers in before we were married), Connie and Tim let us live with them! I'm not so sure it was fun for them... but it was sure fun for us (Laura Croft, Lego Star Wars and Indiana Jones, Star Wars marathon)! They moved Mike's crib into Abbey's room to let us sleep in Mike's room on an air mattress. We had a blast playing video games and playing with the kids... and now, Abbey and Mike love Dan more than me!! Mike said Dan's name before mine!!

Here we are having fun on my computer. I love how this computer brings families together! What a good investment; )

Dan's in the background playing the famous video game (Lego Star Wars is the BEST!!!! I miss it!)

Abbey and Mike with their favorite uncle! It's true!

Because Dan and I were living with the Merrills... the kids schedule and normalcy was askew. Abbey was very naughty!! Haha! (Sorry Connie!) Here she is in the 'time out' chair.

Dan on the air mattress

One night Dan and I made a gourmet dinner for everyone (Tim did the grilling though)... Dan is so helpful!

Yum! Shishkabobs!!

Oh, this was cute! Abbey and Uncle Dan were dancing... and Abbey was calling Dan 'my prince'! Look how happy she looks!

Our New Home!

I love our home! It was quite dirty when we moved in (we ripped out the carpet the first day), but we've been so busy cleaning, painting, scrubbing, bleaching, etc...

Here I am with incense our first night in our house... it was the only thing that cut the smell of yucky carpet. My dad came over and cleaned the hallway and bedroom carpet for us while Connie and Mickey helped me DEEP clean everything. Thank you guys!

Napping... in my house!! See the book beside me? Me and Dan have been reading 'The Eye of the World' series. On the way to and from California Dan read for us (we are on the same book... there's 11). Dan had me drive the whole time on our trip because he has bad luck with the law enforcement! We are obsessed with these books: ) NERDY! Haha!

This was taken before we saw Harry Potter 6!! Dan read the first book... and we bought the movie set and had a Harry Potter marathon. We love Harry Potter... NERDY 2X!! Hey, we haven't had TV OR the internet!

So, we have no fridge yet (except for a mini one that keeps turning our milk sour in 1 week)... can you say 5 dollar Little Caesars?!?

My cute husband playing the guitar... he's so good!!

House work!! We are in the process of scraping up the carpet glue on the concrete in our family room so we can stain it... and make it look cool!! It's a lot of work!

My marriage involves 4 people... Me, Dan, Harry... and Laura Croft. Damn Laura.

I have my Harry boy now!! Thank you Connie and Tim for putting up with my boy for over a year! Now, he's the king of the house... and already making friends in the neighborhood. Dan's not a cat person... but he loves Harry. He's been VERY cuddly... and the other day he snuggled in Dan's neck! He only does that with me! He loves Dan!! Look... he's smiling.

4th of July

Dan and I went up to Pinetop and Heber to enjoy the mountain air and cool breeze with my dad and his new wife Mickey for the 4th. Usually the firework show in Heber is phenominal... but this year it wasn't quite up to par!! 20 bucks to park for a less than 10 minute show:( It was nice to have a little get away and spend time with my dad and Mickey though. We stopped on the way to Pinetop to look over the Mogollon Rim... it was beautiful!

Isn't this little chipmunk so cute?!?

Lookin' all rustic... that's my brawny man

Doesn't nature suit him??

Huntington/Newport Beach Getaway

We drove to California early Saturday morning (3am!) so we could relax a little on the beach! The Hurley U.S. Open surf competition was going on, so we wanted to catch some of that on Sunday. We left Sunday afternoon after a fun little vacay!

This picture is on the Newport Beach pier... we ate at SUCH a good restaurant called Rockin' Baja Lobster. YUM! It was hard for me to not eat at the Old Spaghetti Factory like tradition demands, but it was worth it!

On the Huntington Pier watching Brett Simpson win the U.S. Open. It was so crowded! There was so much traffic, and nowhere to park... we ended up parking 10 blocks away from the pier. Good thing it was nice weather and cute houses to look at walking to the pier... I even got to see Plumeria bushes in lucky peoples yard!!

Our best modeling poses; )

Walking along the Newport boulevard at night

Newport pier

Well, I am all updated! Yay!

Three months later...

2009-07-27T11:17:00.000-07:00

Wow!! I think that may be the longest I've EVER taken to post! There have been a lot of changes in my life lately to say the least... and It's time to catch up!

Okay... first things first. I am now Carrie Elder! I met Dan in December through my roommates I was living with at the time. I had just gotten out of a relationship that made me a little blue, and the girls invited me out to hang out with friends of theirs! That was the first night I met Dan, it was at Mattas Grill. We went to his house (and 6 roommates) afterwards and played Guitar Hero and Dan was getting his hair cut by one of his roommates... into a mohawk! After everything died down and a few people left, I was able to talk with Dan and get to know him a little. I remember thinking he was super cute and really nice!! He seemed genuinely interested in me, and he singled me out out of a dozen single ladies! I thought he was cool because he had a game on his cell phone that I love... Zuma!... and he was funny playing Guitar Hero. He got my number and we became friends on Facebook. I saw him a couple of other times when I went out with my roommates... once we went ice skating, and he was following me around! I think he was trying to make me laugh... and he biffed it pretty hard a couple of times! Haha! A few days later he asked me on a date! We saw 'Yes Man' and went back to my house and played around on my computer taking funny pictures. I really liked that I could be myself around Dan, and he made me laugh.

Our first date

Christmas came and went, and so did New Years. I was going out a lot with my friend Nikki to singles activities and parties... and that's where I saw Dan again! I was excited to see him because it had been a long time since I saw him last. He invited me to the party him and his roommates were throwing for the Super Bowl. I took Nikki with me, and it was SOOO crowded at their house. We left the party, and I took Nikki home. As soon as I dropped Nikki off, Dan texted me to ask if I was still at the party. I ended up going back to hang out with Dan... that's the night I got to know Dan a little better. I learned that his dad had died tragically like my mom did, and I felt an immediate bond to him! He told me about his family, and his mission, etc. We ended up watching a movie together, but I got no kiss (my nose was completely stuffed! I was getting over a cold. Otherwise, Dan said he would have kissed me!). After that night, we saw each other everyday. My roommates and his roommates took a trip to Show Low for the weekend... and that trip was when I started falling in love with Dan. We played cards, drove to my moms grave in the snow, ate out, got ice cream... we were inseparable! Everyone else was watching TV and dancing to hip hop music back at the cabin... and Dan and I were in our own little world!

SO, I will sum up this already loooong winded story! Over Easter weekend, Dan and I went to meet his sisters and mom in Utah (his little brother, Ben, is on a mission!). We stayed with his sister Carissa and her husband Darin (and their 3 cute little kids!), and we had a blast playing Guitar Hero with his ohter sister Annie. His mom and her boyfriend came over on Easter... and that's when we told all of them we wanted to get married! We were planning on getting married at the end of May.

Carissa pitching to Dan... I fell in love with Dan's family immediately! They are so fun loving and genuinely happy people. And I loved seeing Dan as 'big brother'.

Annie... she's a firecracker!!

When I got home, I was trying to plan a little ceremony (my temple marriage hasn't been cancelled with my ex yet... so we can't get sealed yet!). I was so stressed out because I was having to pay for everything out of my own pocket... and I'm poor! Planning a wedding is not very fun (I learned that with the one I planned before)... and a big extravagant wedding wasn't at the top of my list. When you've been married before, in a very unfulfilling unhappy marriage... and then years later meet someone who is perfect for you... little things like flowers, and invitations and cake don't matter as much! I just wanted to start my life with Dan!! Everything fell into place with Dan, taking me completely by surprise... I knew he was the one. Awwww! When we met with our singles ward bishop to tell him we wanted him to marry us, we wondered, "Why wait?!?" Bishop said, "I can do it Saturday". And that was that! I got a dress the day before, shoes the day of... got my hair done at work by my friend Afton, did my own makeup... Dan's cousin Aaron and his wife Laura got us flowers, and a cake (thank you, thank you, thank you!!)... family and friends took pictures for us (Dan's mom and sisters drove up from Utah that day!) , and we got married in our Bishops beautiful home!!

There you go... Mr. and Mrs. Elder!!

Dan's roommates. From left: Scott, Mike, Jared, Van, Adam, Jesse... and the pretty girl in the pink is Mel... the boys' friend from Utah who stayed in their house as well! Right after we got married, all the boys except for Scott moved away to work in the summer! Mel left to California as well.

TO BE CONTINUED!!

Dum dum de dum...

2009-04-22T16:50:00.001-07:00

...I'm a little busy at the moment, but will post soon!!

March Mayhem!!

2009-03-10T19:53:00.000-07:00

Sedona Day Trip

Dan and I decided to take a little road trip to Sedona... we both didn't realize that Sedona is BORING (full of old people and gays!). So, instead of going on a scenic hike in our flip flops or falling asleep at the lunch table... I had the fantastic idea of going on a helicopter ride to see the beautiful red rocks!!

Walking to our helicopter with the pilot... has anyone been to the sedona airport? It's pretty cool! It's on the top of a mesa!

Heck yeah!

I got to ride in the front!! I had the coolest view with the bubble window, and I even could see under my feet!

Poor Dan had to look out the side window : ( But this was his first helicopter ride EVER!

Tia Rosas with the Fam

Dan and me with his mexican pepsi and my henry weinhart root beer

Misty and Stella, Cameron blinking, and the mariachi man with the guitar... he deserves his own picture don't you think?...

Wow... he looks like he's in some pain! "Ey, ey, ey... I shouldn't have eaten that queso dip!"

Christine and Jared... what a lovely couple!

Stella enjoying my bracelet: )

Dad and his new squeeze Mickey

Uncle Lynn and Aunt Julee, Jenny and Cam, and Misty with Stella...

Me with Michael

After dinner, a few of us enjoyed some frozen yogurt... mmm!

Sorry Connie and Tim... for some reason I didn't get a picture of y'all!!

Wednesday Bowling Nite!!

Every Wednesday it's a dollar to bowl at the Brunswick bowling alley on Gilbert, and a lot of the singles go to have fun!!! Yay!

Me, Dan, and Forest goofing around... gotta love the fish lips!

We usually play 2 games: The first one is my warm up game, and the second means business! I've beat Dan twice now!

Day at the park!!

Lucky for me, I have Mondays off of work, and I get to enjoy my sisters and their kids on their excursions... HEY, lets go to the zoo before it gets too hot... you in Jenny?!?

Luke was goin' to town riding this little horse... it was cute:)

Wyatt and Abbey making friends at the swings...

Beautiful girl...

Luke is the cutest when he smiles for the camera: )

Hahaha! Connie, you're the greatest!!

Michael was loving riding the horse with mom... look at that little face!

Smoke and mirrors, birthday parties, and time and all eternity...

2009-02-22T10:54:00.000-08:00

DAVID COPPERFIELD***
This is Dan!! We went to go see David Copperfield's show at Gammage... pretty awesome! I especially enjoyed watching a car appear out of nowhere!

MIKEY'S 1ST B-DAY PARTY***
Here I am with birthday boy... Oh, how I love Mikey Mike!! He's getting so big!

Tim tickling Mike... cuuute!

Dad and Mike... love his new tennies Connie!

Me and Wy Guy... He's getting really mature Chrissy!

Lukey Luke... He's gonna break a lot of hearts!

Me with Princess Abbey

Jenny and Miss Stellas

All of us kids with Grandma Jeannie...

STELLA'S SEALING DAY***

Kathi, mom, momma, pretty lady...

2009-01-19T17:30:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been a whole year. I am happy for her... to not have to suffer in this life full of pain and trials. Till we meet again momma: )

She looked amazing this day... I think better than me! I remember helping her pick out this outfit and shoes... It was fun shopping with mom.

Mom loved being a grandma so much!! She always held the babies hand like that close to her heart.

Mom could always make me laugh with her facial expressions and things she said!

We were pals in Memphis when Wyatt was born... that will always be such a special memory to me. It was freezing in there!

Mom always made Christmas magical... I can't wait to have my own children so I can do the same thing.

Wyatt made mom a grandma first... she was so content holding him here.

Good ol' Westcor... I spent many a time in this office listening to her talk to her tenants. My favorite was Ken... Connie, remember Ken? The Chinese man who made her feel bad for him all the time? haha!

Haha! The Flava puff cotton candy... good times: ) We were playing Settlers too!!

Such a fun, young, beautiful grandma, wife, sister, daughter, mom, and friend.

I love you all

New Years! YAY!

2009-01-04T23:09:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years everyone! I love that we all have a fresh year to make it whatever we want to make it! 2009 will be a great year... I can feel it in my bones: )

New Years Eve

My friend Nikki and I at a singles dance party... my favorite things to go to. Yeah right! But hey, it's the new year... I need to get out of my shell, right?

I may or may not have had a few drinks by the looks of this picture... NEVER! I look like a turtle! A turtle comin' out of her shell... haha!

New Years Day

New Years day was so much fun! We all went out to shoot guns and ride little mini 4 wheelers...

Can any of you guess who I'd like to use these brass knuckles on? Don't answer, it's a rhetorical question: ) And don't flatter yourself if you think I'm talking about you... Yeah, you!

I miss you all... I haven't seen any of you since Christmas! I especially miss my Princess Abs, Mikey Mike, Wy Guy, Lukey Luke, and Miss Stella!!!!!!!!!!!! Let's all get together for dinner or something.

Will I be ready for Hawaii in March?

2008-12-29T20:00:00.000-08:00

P90X starting Thursday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Christmas Day

2008-12-27T13:27:00.000-08:00

Whew... I tell you what... this year has flown by! I must say, this Christmas was pretty nice. Being the first Christmas without Mom I just had to make some minor adjustments: Don't think about anything, don't really listen to Christmas music, and get through it day by day, hour by hour. I was kind of a scrooge this year, and I'm glad Christmas is finally OVER!! I can't wait till the new year... 2008 was the year of coping and being in survival mode. Hopefully 2009 will be the year of healing and peace... is it too much to ask for joy too? I might be pressing my luck!

Now, I know you will be cross at me, Christine, for posting this particular picture... you do look crazy though, and that's what I was going for!!

Here we are... the jolliest bunch of a-holes this side of the nuthouse...

It was fun watching Abbey and Mike open their presents Christmas morning... and then later on in the day, watching Luke and Wyatt play with their toys.

I know what you're thinking... no, we didn't plan everyone wearing blue! But we all looked dang good!

Do you notice anything strange about Christine? She looks like an amputee!! A beautiful one legged woman...

Our gracious hosts once again... I don't think you look like winos in this one, although Jared might be mad at me for posting this one?

This picture is hilarious... Mike's eyes look a little freaky because I did the red eye reduction... but his face is perfect for his outfit.

I'm glad Dad could eat breakfast with us and spend some time before he left for work... love you Dad. Here he is with Stella.

I couldn't resist busting some 80's moves with Christine's new quilted vest and my Lionel shirt...

Cameron and Stellas

Tim and Mike... thanks for the delish Christmas dinner Connie and Tim! It was fun watching Dan In Real Life too!!

Till next year...

The most enduring traditions of the season are best enjoyed in the warm embrace of kith and kin...

2008-12-22T21:30:00.000-08:00

We were suppose to go see the temple lights tonight... but because of the rain, we ended up going over to Christine and Jared's for some treats and hot beverages.

Our gracious hosts

Beautiful girls: Misty and Stella

The very photogenic Con Bon

Angel baby Mikey and Auntie Carrie

Buddha Lukey

"Do you know who I am? I don't know how to put this but I'm kind of a big deal... people know me... I'm very important. I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany..."

My favorite brother

I can't wait till our Christmas brunch!!! Love you all!

How do I get through the holidays, you ask?

2008-12-13T13:45:00.000-08:00

I'm joking of course! If you're wondering why that Cappy Morgans bottle is half empty... it's because it is used for bananas foster... one of our favorite desserts. It just happens to be my specialty!

Last night, Connie and Tim so graciously let old maid mooch Carrie come over and enjoy the festive tradition of decorating the tree. We had fun watching Elf...

Drinking hot cocoa...

... and goofing around.

(I see that finger Tim!)

Harry will always be there for me during Christmas... he's my boy!

Look how huge he looks! Haha!

Thanks Con and Tim... that was fun: )

Gingerbread houses!

2008-12-12T19:02:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving...

2008-12-04T19:59:00.001-08:00

... WAS GREAT.

DON'T I LOOK HAPPY?

JOHNNY, ME, AND DAD

A CANDID SHOT TO CAPTURE THE ESSENCE OF THANKSGIVING: )

ME AND THE PRETTIEST BABY EVER... STELLA

I was worried that this years holiday season was gonna be really depressing because it's the first one without the pretty lady... but I really enjoyed Thanksgiving. I spent most of the day at Johnny's parents house, and then we went to the Francom's and visited with Cam and Jenny, Christine and Jared, and my dad. We missed you Connie and Tim!!

It's stupid of me to expect these holidays to be depressing... I have such a wonderful family who love me, we are all healthy, we have the gospel and the church, and I have so many things to be thankful for! I'm thankful for Johnny too: ) The holidays were my mom's favorite... so instead of being sad she's not here, I will be happy remembering her and trying to be more like her.

CHRISTMAS WILL BE HERE SOON!!!!!! TIME TO BREAK OUT THE EGG NOG, CARPENTERS CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR, AND MANHEIM STEAMROLLER!

Abbey's Party!

2008-11-12T15:05:00.002-08:00

Princess Abbey

Luke and me

That's the present I got Abbey...

Sorry everyone, but it is her favorite; )

Prince Wyatt

It was so cute watching Abbey sing along to her happy birthday song... she really was happy: )

What a cutie!

Papa and precious Stella

The famous castle cake. I helped a few nights by covering those pillars with fondant. It's hard work!

Much better than the one you posted Christine! I look at least 10 pounds lighter in this one!

I feel bad I didn't get any pictures of Cam and Jenny, and Uncle Lynn and Aunt Julee... and everyone else I missed.

GOOD JOB CONNIE AND TIM... THE PARTY WAS AWESOME!

Halloween Party!

2008-10-26T12:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday night Johnny and I went to one of my coworkers Halloween party... It was so fun! We were going to go as old people, but I decided that I wanted to look somewhat attractive; ) Johnny's suit was his dad's wedding reception suit... and to complete his look, he even let me curl his hair to accomplish this feathered look! I was mostly excited to wear my killer boots and crazy eyelashes...

John-boy and his bunny

Far out

Can you dig it?

P90X

2008-10-16T11:53:00.000-07:00

Oh yeah baby!

I'm expecting this in the mail very soon... Christmas comes early this year...

Don't expect to see before and after pictures:)

I've heard so much about this P90X, I've decided to try it out. From what I hear, it sounds like it kicks your butt. I'm excited!

Rock Band Champs

2008-10-13T20:57:00.001-07:00

Last night Johnny and I played Rock Band with Connie and Tim... SO MUCH FUN! I laughed pretty hard at Johnny playing the drums and Tim with his vocal gymnastics: )

Here we are concentrating... The drums are hard sometimes!

...and here we are rockin' it!

Here's Johnny using his falsetto voice probably... Amazing: )

Connie and Tim really get into playing the guitar and singing... It's hilarious to watch... just look at Tim's face! This sort of shows you how funny Johnny was playing the drums. He was concentrating so hard! His back was straight as a board, his eyes were intensely focused, he had a death grip on the sticks, and his movements were very precise! He was good! Are you sore today Johnny?!? : )

Today when I got to Connie and Tim's house I got out of my car and could hear the distinct sound of the drum sticks... I knew there was a party going on inside... a Rock Band party: )

Ghoulfland...

2008-10-06T11:49:00.000-07:00

Watch Out!!!

This whole month of October I am doing makeup for the haunted house at Golfland... It has been super fun and easy... and I'm getting paid to do it! Here are my favorite looks that I've created so far...

I think my favorite one to do is the evil Jester. The insane asylum girl is pretty fun as well.

The majority of the kids acting in the haunted house are hispanic... and they are hilarious! When I do their makeup they all sit around and watch. They say stuff like,
"Man, who jumped you Carlos?"
Carlos: "Dude, nobody... I got this when I jumped the border man... those damn rocks, you know?"

Or how about "What do you say to a mexican who has 2 black eyes? Nothing... cuz he's already been told twice"... hahaha!

Yesterday I made the mistake of saying loudly, "Has anyone not gotten latex who needs it?" (Meaning the latex cuts and gashes). I heard a kid say, "Hey, I got latex" and then crack up. I walked right into that one!

More to come...

Updating...

2008-10-03T08:42:00.001-07:00

I've had no cool pictures to post lately... but it is Halloween season, and I will soon post LOTS of new pictures!

Here are a few just for the heck of it... Rock Band at Uncle Lynn and Aunt Julee's!

Catching up...

2008-09-08T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind on posts, which is odd for me! I'm constantly taking pictures for the sole purpose of blogging! Over the last few weeks I've been having a blast, doing all kinds of fun stuff... so here are some pictures!

These pictures were taken when I went on a short trip with Johnny and his sister Carli and her husband Kurt to Show Low/ Pinetop... beautiful!

Diamond Backs vs. The Dodgers

Carli and Kurt, me and Johnny... I love baseball games: ) The cotton candy was one of the highlights... especially watching Johnny eat it! Hahaha!

GO D-BACKS!

Arcades and Bowling!

2008-08-25T13:19:00.000-07:00

This last Saturday, Johnny and I went out on the town with Jared and Christine bowling at the newer Brunswick bowling alley. Because it's a newer place it is quite popular, and we had to wait for an hour for a lane. Luckily, they had an arcade to entertain us. They also have pool tables... we'll have to do that next time.

I'll have you know I'm an excellent marksman...

Las Bandidas

Jerrod "Danger" Williamz

Which one was the winner????

Game 1 winner!

Game 2 winner!

REMATCH? Who wants to come next time?!?!

Disneyland!!!

2008-08-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

What an appropriate picture to start this post! Space Mountain... I still think it's the best ride in D-land. I just love the pictures they take during the ride. Poor Johnny looks like he has arthritic joint deformation in his hands, and my fingers look freakishly long. We look like we took the handicap line. What I don't understand is how these people (like the girl behind Johnny) can smile and look totally normal, like they're not plummeting into the dark abyss.

Here we are waiting in line for Pirates. It was actually our first ride. This was before we almost melted away in the heat... it was hot! I like Tim's face behind my head.

Me and Johnny

Last D-land trip pose was with the pirates hat (see older posts). Next time might be mickey ears or something. Oooh, I liked the backpacks people were wearing that looked like Yoda riding on your back... kinda creepy, but amusing! Maybe it will be that next time. Another option is Chewey riding on your back... but I don't like that one as much. It's not really realistic... Chewey is like 8 feet tall!

I didn't get to spend much time with the kids because Johnny and I were park hopping between D-land and California Adventure... but I wish I could have been there to see their faces during the fireworks show. These pictures will have to do: ) Hilarious!

HIGHLIGHTS:

Soaring over California: One of the coolest rides ever! They spritz orange blossom and pine tree scents as you're flying over orange trees and pine trees.

Screamin' California: The beginning is the best... you start by counting down from 5 and take off super fast on a straight track and shoot upward.

Tower of Terror: It's super fun. I was screaming my head off... free falling is the craziest rush!

All the other rides were a blast of course, but these were my favorites!

Newport Beach

2008-08-18T11:11:00.000-07:00

I'm so sad my vacation is over... now it's planning time (and saving time) for the next one. I realize I need a vacation every 4 months. High maintenance? I don't think so; )

This trip was very fun. Con and Tim drove out with the kids Sunday morning... and I flew out Sunday evening. We rented a beach house for the week, and just relaxed at the beach everyday. Everyone else (Jared and Christine fam, Cameron and Jenny fam, and my friend Johnny (the guy I'm dating: happy Christine?!? : )) came out on Thursday. Friday we went to Disney land! And Saturday we spent the day at the beach. Here are a few pictures...

Here I am reading the new Stephanie Meyer book Breaking Dawn at Newport Beach... good book!

This picture is hilarious! We were joking that Connie was in the pipe of the wave: ) The waves seemed huge at the time... but they look really puny in the pictures. I only boogie boarded that one day. When everyone else came to the beach on Friday (Thursday for Jared and Christine), they all hogged the boards so I couldn't go out any more: (

The lifeguards were super busy saving people from the riptides. It was kind of scary when they would develop. Here is Tim looking back on the action.

Baby Mikey and me: ) He was an angel on this trip.

Connie and me

Abbey and me

I had worn my new converse to the airport without socks and totally thrashed my heels! I had a heck of a time keeping sand out of the wounds... and the salt water killed! Liquid bandage was a lifesaver... even though it stings like a mo fo!! I had Sponge Bob Square Pants band-aids on my heels this day. Connie was laughing at me... I was in some serious pain.

Every beach shop had these funky glasses... and a lot of kids were wearing them! Weird.

Tim, Con, me and the kids rented bikes and rode down to the Balboa Pier. We ate at the Ruby's there at the end of the pier... it was so good! Doesn't Mike look cute in his bucket hat: )

More to come...

Funny Picture

2008-07-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

I noticed this in the background of a picture of Jenny, Cameron and Mikey. Dad was yawning, and his head looks so weird! It looks like it was stretched... but I swear I didn't tamper with it!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2008-07-21T20:57:00.001-07:00

Dad's 50th Birthday was so fun! Dad and Jackie really out did themselves with the BBQ ribs, baked beans, and potato salad... mmm! It's always fun to have family around, and enjoy each

others company.

We had the Hunsakers...

Dad, Jackie and Christian...

Jenny, Cameron and Mikey...

Baby Stella...

Me, of course...

Timothy and Connie...

And last but not least... Abbey!

What a great party. This night was also a night of hilarious pictures. I have a really funny one of the very photogenic Jenny that I really want to post... but I won't! I'm not that mean; ) We had a good laugh looking at it! I will post a good one soon.

Love you Dad.

4th of July

2008-07-05T18:50:00.001-07:00

The 4th of July was good this year! We had good food, good company, and made good memories. The only thing missing was good fireworks! It was really windy and a little stormy (lightning and thunder), so we decided not to risk it.

I BBQ'd with Connie, Tim and the kids before Tim had to head off to work:( Then we headed over to the Francom's home for another BBQ. I'm still not sick of BBQ. Spencer, the birth mom to Jenny and Cam's Stella, and her family were over as well. We had a good time talking and enjoying each others company.

Afterwards, Connie and I watched Napolean Dynamite and fell asleep on the couch at her house. It was a low key, relaxing 4th... and I enjoyed every bit of it!!!!
Tim gets a 9 for perfect form, but loses a point for unpointed toes.

Cute Kids

2008-07-01T21:19:00.000-07:00

Pretty little lady Miss Abbey

Little Rascals Wyatt and Abigail

Lukey Luke

Angel baby Mikey snoozing

Jenny and Stella

My favorite boys Wyatt and Luke (Michael's my favorite too)

Baby Stella's Baby Shower

2008-06-26T22:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight was Stella's shower, and she got so many cool things! It was so fun to finally see Jenny have a baby shower! Here are a few pictures from the festivities...

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER

THIS CAKE WAS DELICIOUS... LEMON... MMM

AUNT CONNIE AND BABY GIRL

THAT PICTURE IS OF JENNY AND THE BIRTH MOTHERS HANDS... JUST TO CLARIFY: )

BABY AND ME

CUPCAKE AND ME

What a cute shower... it was perfect: )
You were missed Christine. You're probably somewhere in the ocean scuba diving right now!

LOOK WHO MISSES ME

2008-06-25T17:22:00.000-07:00

Connie and Tim have been kind enough to house my little Harry for me while I live with Dad and Jackie. Whenever I come over to their house (every day!) he acts a little cold towards me for a while. He doesn't purr when I pick him up and hold him, and wants down quickly. However, after a few hours he warms up and cuddles with me: ) That is what I love most about this darn cat... he's so cuddly! Usually cats stop being like this when they grow up... but Harry... he's just as lovey as the first day I brought him home.

Thanks Connie and Tim! Despite the claritin, allergy eye drops, cat hair, and scratches sustained by miss Abigail they still take care of him for me! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

At least he hardly uses his cat box and chooses to go outside... that's a plus! : )

Birthday Season Is Approaching...

2008-06-20T10:12:00.000-07:00

You can't tell me that doesn't look like me!!

Pride and Prejudice

2008-06-05T20:35:00.000-07:00

Pride and Prejudice has got to be one of my favorite movies... so I decided to read the Jane Austen book. I bought the book many, many months ago and read a few chapters here and there... but never really got into it. If anyone has read it, they would know it's kind of difficult to read! Especially if you get the annotated version (it takes twice as long to read with all the interesting facts and definitions). But, I must say to all who tries... Don't give up! The book consists of 3 volumes. The first volume is the hardest to read. The second and third are the best! I can't put it down now! It's so good! It is so much better than the movie as far as reading Elizabeth's thoughts (as well as Mr. Darcy's)... It is twice as enjoyable to picture them in my head when I'm reading. And I know it's nerdy, but I listen to the movie soundtrack on my ipod when I'm reading... It adds to the emotion: )

This is how I get my kicks since I lack any kind of romance in my life!! Now I need to get another romantic book to read before August (when Breaking Dawn comes out) because I'm almost done! Any suggestions? Jenny recommended Something Borrowed in Hawaii... I really liked it. I'm open for everyones ideas... keep in mind I like my books a tad steamy; ) Hehehe.

Blue Sky Holiday

2008-06-02T13:37:00.000-07:00

I finally got my water proof disposable camera pictures today... here they are! I am a little disappointed in the quality... oh well: )

Kaanapali Beach

Cameron and Jenny cooling off in the Sheraton pool

Water slide at the Sheraton

Close-up of my face: )

Cameron and Jenny

Pull ups under the bridge. FYI: This is the top that snapped open to expose my girls.

Nice Guns!

It looks as though I got sunscreen in my eye!

Giant turtles at Black Rock!

TILL WE MEET AGAIN MAUI....

Don't Worry, Be Happy

2008-05-22T01:14:00.000-07:00

Wow... my how the days go by! It almost isn't fair. Yesterday was our last full day in Maui. Although we don't leave until 10 pm (I think), today is still a little tainted because it's our last day here! When will be my next trip? Two years, like last time? More? Less? A girl could go crazy wondering. I will be back... this I know for sure.

Not much has happened... just a whole lotta sun, shopping, and good food: ) That's what I call a vacation! Actually, I lied. Something did happen... but we'll have to wait until Jenny posts it on her blog. It's hilarious! Sarah, Derek, Shane, and Meredith Tuesday night to go back home. It's been just me, Cam and Jenny. We switched where we are staying. Instead of the 3 bedroom Papakea condo, we are now in the Maui Sheraton at Black Rock (it's on Kaanapali beach!). Mom would've loved it here... the room has an ocean view. I could see her sitting on the balcony with her half smile and her chin raised up looking out at the ocean. It was her "relaxed" and "this is livin' it" look.

So, our resort has such a cool pool! Instead of renting a cabana on the beach, we stay on the grounds on the lounge chairs on the grass. We choose chairs at the edge of the pool and just a stones throw from the beach. How relaxing! Waiters walk around routinely to ask us if they could get us drinks. Virgin Pina Colada's for me, please. Thank you. : )

Yesterday was pretty hot. All three of us got sun burned... even Jenny, who according to her, never gets burned! Our favorite thing to say here is, "But I put sunscreen on!" It must have came off with our sweat. Cameron says today will have to be a 50 and sit in the shade day... meaning 50 SPF. I finished my book, so I will have to get another one in the Borders at Whalers Village... that's what I'll do today. I don't want to go!

Mom's Kapalua

2008-05-19T13:33:00.000-07:00

Mom under a plumeria tree at Kapalua in 2005

Greetings from Maui!

So yesterday we spent most of the day at the Kapalua grounds. Kapalua is where I stayed the first time I ever came to Maui with Cam and Jen and my mom and dad. I think it is the prettiest in Maui. It has beautiful exotic pine trees called "Captain Cook pines"... they aren't like normal pine trees. Kapalua has a cove beach that we hung out at yesterday. We snorkeled in the turquoise ocean and relaxed on our rented lawn chairs under the shade of our rented umbrellas. I'm reading Stephanie Meyers new book "The Host"... it's pretty good... but not as good as her others (so far). We are all getting very golden... and a little red (some of us ; ).

When our belly's rumbled with hunger, Cam and Jen and I hopped in our Jeep and drove to Kapalua's Honolua store. It's a cute little store with a little coffee shop (the iced latte with coconut syrup is to die for), and a deli and gift shop/convenient store. We ordered sandwiches and ate outside under the shade of a huge tree that would never grow in AZ (like most of the exotic plants here). I got the BLT: ) I will be back to get it again next time we go to Kapalua beach!

After we ate, we drove to where we stayed with my mom and dad years ago. We stopped where my mom loved to come to and enjoy the view. It is so beautiful... pictures don't do it justice! Kapalua reminds us of mom. I'm so glad I got to experience Maui with her. Every flower I see reminds me of her... that's pretty much every second of every day! : ) What a great vacation.

I'm in love with Maui!!

Busty Blonde

2008-05-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

Aloha! So yesterday was a fun day... we hung out at Kaanapali beach almost all day. Poor Cameron got sun burnt... he's very upset about it. Apparently he's never gotten burnt in Hawaii. We rented snorkel gear before we headed to the beach. Me, Jenny, Jenny's sister Sarah, her husband Derek, and their friends Meredith and Shane all walked down to black rock to snorkel. As we were getting in the water, I was facing the beach trying to put on my fins. I had my disposable camera and mask/snorkel in one hand, and I was bending over attempting to put my fins on with the other hand. I was facing the beach because the force of the waves make it almost impossible to successfully put fins on. As I was bending over, I felt a sort of snap as my bikini top flipped open exposing my boobs! I flashed the entire beach! I have no idea how fast my reflexes were... I could have been standing there in shock for a long time. I covered myself with my free arm and hand and quickly turned around towards the ocean where Jenny, Sarah, and Meredith were getting in the water. I was yelling "help, help, help!" so everyone was looking at me! Bad idea... I think people thought someone was drowning! The girls quickly came to my rescue and fastened the top for me (it had broke, but not all the way... it did later on in the day though. Luckily I was wearing a cover up by then!) In the confusion, Sarah and I both dropped our fins and they were washing out to sea... they had to rush and get them before they were gone. I don't know how many people saw my boobs, but I know for sure an old man and a young kid did because the old man was laughing and telling the woman beside him what had happened, and the young kid yelled out to us. I'm not sure what he said. The old man hightailed it out into the water with his snorkel gear. He overheard Sarah say "you probably extended his life for a couple of years!" How embarrassing. Oh well, those people got a show. What a nightmare!

Beautiful Hawaii

2008-05-16T10:09:00.000-07:00

Aloha! I am here in Maui! Thanks to my allergies, I can't taste or smell so it's not quite complete yet: ( What's Maui without the smell of the ocean, sweet plumeria, BBQ, and banana boat suntan lotion? Hopefully I will be able to taste today : ) I also don't have a regular camera... I had to buy a disposable one at the grocery store last night. It's water proof though... lots of fun!

Last night we ate at Hula grill. It's right on Kaanapali beach. There was live music and the lava flows were flowing. We will be back to eat there for sure! I'm not sure what our plans are today, but I'm positive the beach will be in the equation (and Hula Scoops coconut ice cream). That's the beauty of Maui... no stringent plans, just relax and enjoy. I will post more soon...

Adventures in babysitting?

2008-04-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, so maybe it's not the time to post right now when I'm so angry... but I have nothing better to do right now.

I am over at a girl I work withs home babysitting her 4 kids (all boys). Overnight babysitting... yeah, that's right. It has been a nightmare!! I have been to the point of tears all freaking day. As I type, the 2 eldest boys are sneaking their gameboys (like I can't hear them!) when they should be sleeping. Their bed time was suppose to be 7pm! When the clock hits 9, you better believe I'm bustin' down their door and yanking those gameboys out of their hands.

First of all, these kids are the devil. Secondly, I NEVER want to watch anyone play Wii again. I had to watch them cry, pout, scream, hit, slam doors, violently throw pillows and the controller (once at me), and hide under beds because of the damn Wii for 6 straight hours. I actually had to pry the controller from the 2nd to oldest death grip.

I've been texting Christine and Connie, and my roommate Tiffany so I can let off a little steam so I don't snap. Oh, I bet their parents are a-crackin' their heels and laughing hysterically right now. The girl told me they hadn't been away overnight for 2 years... now I understand why. She hasn't even called to check in... not even a text!

Just so you know ahead of time, I don't want to babysit any of your kids for like 10 years... mmmmmmkay? I also don't want my own for like 15 years. Yeah, it's been that bad.

Question for everyone:

When they ask me how they were... I'm telling them, "They were horrible, and I don't want to make you feel bad, but you need to take me off your babysitting list"

Q: Is that appropriate? I still have to work with this girl.

SIDE NOTE: Mission Gameboy COMPLETED : ) He actually tried to hide it from me.

CAUTION PROFANITY CAUTION PROFANITY CAUTION PROFANITY

These little effers better go to bed, or I'm going ape shi on their a's.

These are injuries sustained while playing Wii. I could've been the lady with the black eye... but I wouldn't be smiling.

This is what I'll be dreaming of tonight....

Catching Up

2008-04-14T14:41:00.000-07:00

EASTER 2008
Easter was a lot of fun. I am happiest when I'm with the ones I love the very most! I get so excited when my family has a get together planned. On Easter Sunday, however, I fell asleep at my apartment and woke up many hours later... 1 or 2 hours late for our family dinner!! I was in charge of the rolls and dessert. Well, at least we all enjoyed the strawberry shortcake I made! Sorry about the rolls guys! I'll make it up to all of you next year:)

Jenny, Connie, Christine, Carrie!

Here we are laughing at Cameron's legs. People try to bum ciggies from him because he apparently looks like a smoker! He blames it on his "smoker legs".

My favorite people ever!

BABY MICHAEL'S BLESSING DAY
Baby Michael is the sweetest, cutest little man ever!! I'm so glad I get to be blessed to be an Aunt! I think my niece and nephews are the cutest in the whole
world! I never knew this kind of love existed until I became an Auntie... I can only imagine how magnified it will become when I'm a mother! I can't wait to meet Cam and Jens baby in June! Then I'll have 2 nieces!!! I better enjoy this while it lasts (having no kids, and enjoying the stress free life of an Auntie)!
By the way, the breakfast was delicious! Mmmmm.
Here's handsome boy in his blessing suit:)

My home gurls!

I don't mind these kinds of eggs...

2008-03-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

It's stupid to start a diet before Easter candy comes out! What was I thinking?

I know, I know... my teeth are getting a little dingy. And don't mind the 3 o'clock shadow.

HAPPY EASTER TIME! :)

I HATE EGGS!

2008-02-29T09:42:00.000-08:00

YUCK!

South Beach Diet Blues

2008-02-29T08:12:00.001-08:00

I'M GOING TO MAUI IN MAY!! I'M TAGGING ALONG WITH CAM AND JENNY... AGAIN: )

Okay, they didn't have many magazine covers to choose from... I wanted a Shape magazine cover, but no such luck.

This picture was taken on the Kapalua beach in Maui about 4 years ago. I don't look like this anymore, hence the South Beach diet misery. The diet sucks all the enjoyment out of my life, but in return hopefully is sucking all the fat out of my body! We'll see if this diet helps me look like I am 20 again, otherwise people will most definitely think I have a really realistic fat suit on in Hawaii in May.

Do me a favor, and don't offer me cookies, cake, candy, any kind of carbs, or even fruit: ( And have pity on me... don't eat them in front of me! It's only been 4 days! How sad it that?

2008-02-29T07:34:00.001-08:00

Kate Hudson?

2008-02-12T14:18:00.000-08:00

YIKES!

So, it wasn't my intention to go strawberry blonde... but, because my hair was so dark, I have to get lighter in phases! Phase 1! It's a little embarrasing: (

LATER ON TODAY...

It's amazing what a little bit of makeup and hair product can do! Muuuch better: )

2008-02-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

SUSHI!

2008-01-31T13:44:00.000-08:00

I have discovered that I like sushi! My favorite is the vegas roll. Here's the crazy part... it has eel in it! It also has cream cheese in it as well... so it's sweet and creamy. Yum! I usually just play it safe and get the california roll, but I like the vegas roll better. You should all try it!

Hey Pretty Lady

2008-01-27T07:34:00.000-08:00

This is one of my favorite pictures of my Momma... She was the funniest, prettiest, sweetest, most loving lady in the whole world, and I'm going to miss her VERY much.

I take comfort in knowing that she is free from her body here on earth and she is a beautiful angel in heaven. She sacrificed long enough to heal all of our hearts. I thought I'd never say this... but I'm looking forward to dying so I can be with her again : ) Till we meet again pretty lady!

I love you Connie, Tim, Abbey, Christine, Jared, Wy, Lukey, Cameron, Jenny, Dad, Uncle Lynn, Aunt Julee, Misty, and everyone else!

YO HO!

2008-01-18T08:37:00.001-08:00

I think one of my favorite rides is Pirates of the Caribbean... and if anyone hasn't gone since they re-opened the ride~ you're missing out! It has Captain Barbosa, and of course Captain Jack Sparrow in the ride! Jack Sparrow was very life like... it was like Johnny Depp was right there, I almost could touch him :)

Another favorite ride, actually...my very favorite ride, is Space Mountain! We went on it 3 times! Everyone had to have the chance to ride in the front at least once! The ride is NOT as fun unless you are in the very front seat! Believe me on this!

First of all, during the ride... bits of wet stuff hits your face if you are not sitting in the front. I don't know what it is... but it's disgusting! Once something went in my mouth! Secondly, if you aren't sitting in the front, you have peoples heads and arms obstructing your sight. The whole point of the ride is to see the stars whizzing around! Third, when you are sitting in front, it is much much faster and thrilling. And fourth, when you are sitting in front, it's like you are flying:) It is the best because you have a full view of all the stars, AND, bonus: it is extra thrilling when you think your head is going to hit into the gleaming track in the darkness!!

I am not sitting in the front, therefore I do not look very thrilled:)

I was very disappointed to see that The Haunted Mansion was shut down temporarily:( But, there's always Indiana Jones! We went on that one twice. Indy was also very life like... which I enjoy very much!

Michelle (nail tech), Christina, Nikki, Juanita, and Carrie!

In case all of you are wondering... how did they ride on so many rides twice, even three times? Well, it's because we went through the handicap lines... which is much, much better than the fast pass. Much quicker. Christina has knee problems, so she had a motorized cart! She could take up to 6 people with her. I am now officially spoiled. People gave us the evil eye all the time... but it was worth it! We didn't even have to wait in line for more than 10 minutes!

The only downfall to Disneyland is that I am such an old lady now... my feet hurt a little, and I got hungry and grumpy:) So mental note for next time... wear more comfortable tennies, and bring more snacks! FYI: The clam chowder bread bowl in the New Orleans district is not up to par anymore! Instead, go to Bengal BBQ right across from Indiana Jones... YUM! Oh, and don't waste your time on the Small World ride... it is sooooo boring! And we had to wait even in the handicap line for at least 30 min!

I LOVE DISNEYLAND!

CALIFORN- EYE- AY

2008-01-16T19:31:00.000-08:00

I'm back from my California trip! It was so much fun... I went for product knowledge and anti-aging facial training for work at Yonka headquarters. Yonka is the product line we use at XS. I went with 3 other Aestheticians I work with, and one nail tech. Even though it was a work trip, we managed to have a little fun. We went to Disneyland, and we went out for dinner and some fun at night. One of these nights, I met my dream man...

THIS IS JAY

We all know I have the hots for Kenny G, and I've always said I was gonna marry a rock star...

A grunge Kenny G is way better than the real thing in my opinion. Plus, the veiney neck and forehead are totally disgusting... hello!

Just kidding... but Jay was really funny, and he told me I was pretty... of course I'm gonna like the guy! : )

Enough about Jay...

DISNEYLAND!!!!!!

They're back!

2008-01-10T09:49:00.000-08:00

Imagine this...
Walking into Fry's (or whatever supermarket you frequent), and spotting colorful packages in the novelty/holiday section. Could it be? Yes! The conversation hearts are back!
The toothaches, headaches, and stomach aches. You know it's true... but do you still buy them, and can't stop eating them? I know I do.

Smiling through the pain... Pain of addiction.

Connie had a head start with the candy... the bag was half empty when I arrived.

Our pink tongues. Notice the teeth marks in mine... that's cool!

The scene of the crime. Don't I look like the freaky muppet on Dark Crystal? Or, Connie thinks I look like Chris Tucker from Rush Hour 3! Haha!

Happy New Year!

2008-01-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

Hostesses: Carrie Webb and Tiffany Olsen

New Years was so much fun at Tiffany and my apartment! What a perfect way to bring in the new year... FONDUE! I hope everyone had as much fun as I did! This year is going to be the BEST!

Me and Dad

Cam and Jenny

8 months along Connie was having pregnancy heat flashes! Thanks for helping me Con Bon!

THE BAG GAME

The winner is... Tiffany!

CHRISTMAS CARD

2007-12-09T21:06:00.001-08:00

Here is our official Christmas Card! Ellie looks like she's demented! We are so pathetic... we put the camera on the timer thingy for this picture: ) That's why my hair looks in disarray... I was rushing to my seat for the shot. Hahaha! Harry was pretty pissed at me too.

Yes, you are correct... I did change my hair once again! It's darker! And I don't know if you can tell, but I tried to fix Harry's eyes in photo shop. They looked really scary!

New hair... new woman!

2007-12-05T14:35:00.000-08:00

FEELING THE HOLIDAY BLUES?

2007-11-24T20:18:00.000-08:00

WANTED:

DATES FOR DURING THE HOLIDAYS. WOULD BE NICE IF MY ROOMATE TIFFANY HAD SOME TOO. HOOK US UP!

"Christmas time means laughter, toboggan in the snow..."

2007-11-24T19:32:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Christmas Tree
I am looking forward to my first Christmas alone... Well, not really alone. I have moved into a place with my friend Tiffany and her puppy Ellie. I just barely brought Mr. Harry home with me on Thanksgiving... he won't leave my room, poor boy. We have already decorated our Christmas tree, and most of our house. It's going to take a while to decorate it fully, but it is one of my favorite things to do! Our Christmas theme is candy land, sugary gumdrops, gingerbread houses, cupcakes galore, etc. I love it!

Here is Connie in my kitchen. It is painted pink: )

We have a huge brown wall (which we will paint pink damask over, and the hallway is green)

The delicious truffles and cakes are not real...that is on our dining room table. I am painting a picture for our dining room... it's gonna be so cute!

We will be having a house warming party, just so you all know! Fondue, anyone? And also, I am open to using the place for the Maui trip planning meetings.

Hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving!!

HALLOWEEN

2007-11-02T11:16:00.000-07:00

aLL hAIL cLEOPATRA!

hERE IS cHRISTINE AND mE. cHRISTINE WAS A CAT, BUT SHE IS SPORTING cONNIES gEISHA WIG.

i DIDN'T ACTUALLY DO ANYTHING ON hALLOWEEN DAY, EXCEPT FOR WATCH A SCARY MOVIE AND EAT SOME PIZZA! hOWEVER, i DID GET DRESS UP AND TO GO TO aBBEY'S 2ND BIRTHDAY PARTY AT THE PARK THE sATURDAY BEFORE. bEFORE THE PARTY, cONNIE CAME IN TO MY WORK AND GOT HER GEISHA MAKEUP DONE BY ME. sHE LOOKED GREAT! uNFORTUNATELY, SHE WAS TOO BUSY TO TAKE A PICTURE BEFORE IT GOT MESSED UP AT THE PARTY! i DID TAKE A COUPLE OF PICTURES OF HER MAKEUP WHEN i FIRST PRACTICED ON HER.

tHE DAY OF tHE pARTY WITH HER mAKEUP ALREADY mESSED uP! iT WAS PRETTY hOT OUTSIDE!

hOW dO i LOOK wITH bLACK BOBBED HAIR? i THINK i MIGHT kEEP THE lOOK: )

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ABBEY!

2007-10-31T08:51:00.000-07:00

Today Miss Abigail is 2! She is my favorite little girl, and I am going to miss living with her. However, I'm not sure if she will miss me that much... she already has her own bathroom now, decorated with leap frogs and lilies! Not to mention, the upstairs is now transformed into a big play area! She is a lucky baby girl because she has such great parents! And pretty soon, she will have a baby brother, Michael! Have fun in Pinetop with your Grandma and Grandpa Merrill, Abbey! I love you!

Tats

2007-10-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

I'm running out of ideas for posts! Good thing Halloween is around the corner. These tattoos are from a set of 3 books I've read... Twilight, New Moon, and Eclipse. I'm wearing Edward, Connie has on Jacob, and Abbey has on a lovely flower. Tim wouldn't wear the Bella one... we were trying to talk him into wearing it on his chest. Right by his heart. FYI: The books are really good. READ THEM!

Bernie Mac... Bernice Mac?

2007-10-05T22:56:00.000-07:00

I gave a facial to a woman who looked like Bernie Mac today... complete with facial hair.

CALIFORNIA DREAMIN'

2007-10-01T22:51:00.001-07:00

LAGUNA BEACH

My friend Tiffany and I spent the weekend in Newport Beach, California. It was perfect in every way! Except, of course, for the confusing freeway and road system there! I no longer trust Mapquest and Google Maps. They gave us the most confusing directions ever! There wasn't even a 91 South. It doesn't exist! I can't tell you how many times we turned around on the way there.

ELLIE

Ellie got the most attention out of all 3 of us. We strolled her around Fashion Island, in Bloomingdale's, in Coco's for breakfast, etc. She went everywhere we went!
NEWPORT BEACH SUNSET

Hopefully in a few years I will have someone standing with me in the sunset pictures next time. Sooner than later?

Need I say more? If in Newport, it is a must to eat here. We even got seated in the trolley!

WE ALSO RENTED CRUISERS AND RODE ALONG THE BOARDWALK, ATE BUBBLEGUM ICE CREAM, WATCHED THE HOLIDAY IN OUR HOTEL ROOM, AND MADE FRIENDS WITH THE VALET BOYS. WORD OF WISDOM... DON'T EVEN BOTHER STOPPING AT THE OUTLETS ON THE WAY HOME. G H E T T O! THIS WAS AN OFFICIAL GIRLS TRIP... THE FIRST I'VE EVER HAD (NOT INCLUDING FAMILY). IT WAS COMPLETE WITH A NATALIE IMBRUGLIA SING ALONG ON THE WAY HOME!

THE TAG THINGY

2007-09-27T10:06:00.000-07:00

4 JOBS I'VE HAD

Candle Dipper:
It was really cool. In the Shannon Southpark mall in Georgia, a lady made tons of money making customized fancy candles with many layers and colors. I got to dip the candles in all the colors, and then hand it to her to carve and twist while it was still soft. She let me make one once, but she didn't let me keep it!
Janitor:
I was paid 20 bucks each Saturday to clean Sentry Fire & Home Health... my grandpa's store in Lakeside, AZ. It wasn't that bad, but the men's bathroom was disgusting! I shall never forget it.
Caterer:
I would help cater tennis matches for Cafe Pig in Peachtree City Georgia. My job was to ask the old farts... "Ice tea or water?". That was it!
Spray tan girl:
When I worked for the Las Sendas Athletic Club as an Aesthetician, one of my services was spray tanning (like an airbrush). I once had an old man come in, and he stripped down to his saggy, dingy tighty whities. If I wasn't careful, I might have seen something I didn't want to!

4 MOVIES I COULD WATCH OVER & OVER

The Holiday:
This movie lifts my spirits! When I first saw it in theater, I would catch myself smiling like an idiot the entire time! Also, what single girl (or any girl for that matter) doesn't dream about going on vacation and finding the perfect man for you who looks like Jude Law!
Pride & Prejudice:
The one with Kiera Knightly, not the A & E one... although, that one is good too.
Memoirs of a Geisha:
That culture fascinates me. Also, it's one of those epic movies where the heroine actually ends up with the hero she loves.
Aeon Flux:
I know it's Sci-Fi... but I love it! It's so cool!

4 PLACES I'VE LIVED

Fort Campbell, Kentucky
Peachtree City, Georgia
Katy, Texas
La Jolla, California

4 OF MY FAVORITE PLACES TO VISIT

MAUI! I would say Bora Bora, but I like Maui Better... It's the USA!
Disneyland... or anywhere in California with the ocean nearby.
New York City
Vancouver, B.C.

4 FAVORITE DESSERTS

Bananas Foster:
I'm getting pretty good. I don't almost catch the house on fire anymore!
Pazookie from Oreganos:
The white chocolate/macadamia nut one.
Chocolate Fondue:
Strawberries are the best with it.
Dump Cake:
Christine, you've opened my eyes!

4 FAVORITE DINNERS

Tacos:
So much flava!
Chicken Parmigiana:
My Speciality!
Homemade pizza with olives on it and fresh garlic butter on the crust!
Beans and Cornbread:
I add a little more sugar in the cornbread.

4 WEBSITES I VISIT DAILY

Every one's blog:
I get sad whenever I visit yours Cameron and Jenny!
Yahoo:
I always have emails from the Relief Society Presidency. I am the Secretary... I'm busy as a bee.
B of A:
To see what damage I have done.
Google:
I'm always googling.

4 HOBBIES I HAVE

Read:
My favorite to do. I'm getting better at gradually reading the book instead of reading it all within 1 to 2 days like a maniac!
Draw/Paint:
Sorry Cam, Hopefully I'll finish your birthday present by Christmas! I can duplicate simple pictures for anyone who wants me to. Nothing too difficult though!
Shop:
Hehehe!
Watch Movies