Krista & Tyler

And People Think Math Doesn't Make Sense...

2012-01-19T20:46:00.001-07:00

1 + 1 = 3

12 weeks and counting...

15 weeks....take 1

15 weeks...take 2!

Currently, I'm at 16 weeks and change.
For those of you, who like me, hate 'week' talk,
I'm 4 months.
Gender Ultrasound: February 8th

Overall,

Funny story, but I'll save it for later.

Due Date: July 2

Funny story about that too....

That'll also come later.

Enjoy!

Oh, and since I sold my camera, you get lots of great phone pics!

Winter Daze!

2012-01-12T19:14:00.001-07:00

Well.

So much has happened in the past few months,

I have totally fallen out of 'blogging!'

One weekend in November, we randomly decided to move.

Tyler pointed out that it wasn't that random -

we'd looked for a place we loved for over a year, on and off.

We finished Ty's first graduate class semester,

finished applying for graduate school,

and had finals.

Then, came the move.

It didn't take long,

but I still haven't unpacked my clothes.

Go figure!

Then, 4 days of work,

and bam!

Off to Delaware.

Christmas was amazing! I hope you saw the video I posted on facebook!

My family was so surprised to see us!

It was totally worth it!

We had dinner and lunch with friends,

celebrated NYE in Philly

by watching fireworks,

and toured DC.

We did so much,

and it was the prefect vacation!

We even drove 45 minutes to get our favorite summertime dessert!

So many more things to come...

but here are just a few pictures of the vacation.

Can I just say its so lovely to have a best friend to travel with?

To hang out with?

I love Tyler...he's practically the best.

And, my family loves him a LOT too,

which makes my day.

My favorite Smithsonian - the art is so refreshing!

Aren't you just yelling for me to fix the angle? haha I am too. Oh well.

Why don't we use this as the White House?!

Love the French inspiration...

We walked the entire 7-8 mile loop.

I'm so glad I put Dr. Scholl's in my boots!

I might just print this one....

Could they have made this monument any cooler?

This is probably one of my favorite things to see in DC.

So amazing.

The WWII Memorial.

I took these pictures for my grandpa.

He rarely talks about the war...

but when we're alone, sometimes he opens up.

Listen.

Eventually, I'll crop out this fence...haha

And the random looking wine-tasting event going on.

Again, the WWII Memorial.

They did such a lovely job!

My temple.

I love it.

Julie, Me, Addison [Julie's little 4yr old! So cute!], and Mare!

Chad, Me, Addison, Tyler

Jules & Mare.

Mare had us up to Philly to watch fireworks!

On the East Coast,

they shoot fireworks off of bridges, barges, etc.

Then, they sync the video footage to patriotic music,

so while you ring in the New Year,

you can watch fireworks from the entire eastern sea board.

Mare lives right on the waterfront in Philly,

right after the Benjamin Franklin Bridge -

such a great location!

We had the best time!!!!!!!

Thanks so much Mare!

In other good news,

I'm way closer to picking out a camera.

THANK THE STARS

I'll be back...

2012-01-08T21:27:00.001-07:00

Soon. Promise.

2011-12-03T11:23:00.000-07:00

I watched this video earlier this week.

I tried to think of what I would do.

I thought about that last week - I decided I would sing "Silent Night" versus crying.

But, today, one of my favorite people has died.

He meant a lot to me.

He was a friend, then a Bishop, and finally a co-worker.

He always laughed.

Always smiled.

Taught me that the reason we have jobs in this life is simply so we can support our families.

He helped me to receive my endowments.

Through his guidance, I married by best friend for eternity.

He was a friend.

He got me my favorite job/internship.

He would come to offer me a smile after a meeting, dropping by the lab and waving hello!

I owe him so much.

His wife's example over the last few weeks has carried me.

She has been upbeat and faithful.

I am inspired and touched.

I have lost a great many people in my short life already.

I thought it would be easier, by now, to say this.

But.

Its not.

God Be With You Till We Meet Again, Bishop McNeil.

Another Camera Post..

2011-11-22T20:11:00.002-07:00

Ok.

I own a Nikon.

I am thinking of switching to Canon.

Thoughts?

I simply feel like Canons take better pictures without as much effort. haha

And, a friend mentioned that the lenses AF with all models, and they're cheaper.

I'm selling my Nikon D5000.

Now.... what to get next?

-i posted on fb, so any comments, anywhere, are awesome-

New Book

2011-11-17T15:31:00.000-07:00

I read a few good books lately, and you should too!

1. The Heart of Rachel - this is probably my favorite. It talks a lot about marriage, in the most interesting way.

2. The Woman in White - this is a murder mystery, but set in the time of Jane Austen. Dull? Not even close! I could not put it down!

3. The King in the Window - This might already be on "my bookshelf," but its so cute that I just felt like mentioning it once again.

The End

Hair Dilemma.

2011-11-14T20:59:00.000-07:00

I've noticed that as I've gotten older,

my spelling has gotten worse.

Is that even how you spell dilemma?

Anywho.

Vote away:

1. Dark hair again?

2. Highlights?

3. Pretty sure I'm getting fringe.

Suggestions?!

ps- decision by the end of the week. i'm going nuts.

Chocolate dream in a mug...

2011-10-22T13:19:00.002-06:00

Thanks, Rach.

I loved this!

So did Tyler.

perfect midnight snack!

esp since it takes less than 5 mins...

Insights.

2011-10-20T21:12:00.002-06:00

Trust

Today I made a big decision. I moved without clearing it with the world. I made a life changing, game-deciding choice. That choice was to be true to myself. I suppose I had never looked at myself and ask what I wanted. I have always looked outward. I aim to please. I do not always succeed, which makes life challenging.

I went to a challenging high school, one where academics were supreme. I was raised in a home
where education was valued. All of these things are motivational and orient the student for success.
Internalizing the value of grades to determine the value of self is unfortunate, but common. In college, I found myself in a familiar environment. The college I chose, however, did not reflect my focus on academia. Something was different; it focused on something more. Regardless, I chose to study hard, become incredibly stressed, not focus my energy on relationships, and instead, lead an unhealthy lifestyle, both emotionally and mentally. Sports were a rescuing outlet. I found myself graduating from college engaged, to someone who took the time to understand and then unwind me. He had plenty of patience. He had immense love. And I had secrets.

Secrets of not being able to love myself. Secrets that kept me from smiling all the way. Secrets that kept me from happiness because I could not measure up to an immeasurable standard.

I had never lived for anything but the grade, the job, the promotion, the expectation. After 3 years of
blissful marriage, something is changing.

Feeling as though I was not achieving my potential, I determined that I was to apply for PA school. I was excited, dreaming about the increase in income, the prestige, and the notoriety that I would receive for again accomplishing another goal-oriented task, related to academia. Did making this decision make me happy? Why would I stop to ask?

He had seen me through school when we were first married, taking 25 credits per semester. I did not stop to eat, sleep, use the restroom, exercise, or hang out with friends. Over the 3 semesters that I was in school, he lessened my abrasive studying ethic and helped me to unwind. My overall scores in classes dropped only 2%. This was tangible. I could feel a difference. I could see a difference. People looked at me differently. Happiness was again starting to squeak through the tiny holes in my façade of academia. Graduation occurred, a job procured. What a joy to just work and then come home! At first. Then, it got hard. But, I learned how to fill my time with hobbies, which I had never been able to do before. I learned about cooking, baking, sewing, crafting. I learned about friends, photography, and balance. For the first time, I did not feel guilty for having fun. Relief. Love of self.

Years passed. Two. Back to school – taking prerequisites for PA school. I had been here before, before we were married. The Lord had given instruction for me to peruse another course of interest. But now, years later, things must be different! I had learned so much in my last program – surely this was the knowledge that I needed to help me in PA school this time around. I signed up for courses. Bought notebooks, textbooks, new pencils and pens. Found the messenger bag, and packed myself around the campus when I wasn't working. Filled with the joy of learning, I shot off into the first chapter. And all was well.

Subtly, a gloom crept into my world. Starting on the outer edges, I could see it only faintly in the
periphery. Days passed, and I grew to match this gloom. Overwhelmed; anxious once again about not
being perfect. Loathe of self.

He could see me slipping. He knew to interfere would be fruitless. I had to make the decision. I called
my dad and worked through a series of interfering thoughts that kept me bound in fear. Fear of
disappointing others. Fear of being seen as less than __. If I did not accomplish this goal, I would be
worthless, in my own eyes.

My dad brought me back to reality. Helped me to remember my priorities. I found peace in that
moment. That night, He and I went for a drive and I revealed to him my decision and asked if he could and would support me in it. He sighs. A giant sigh of relief. He had been waiting for me, patiently. We felt combined, whole, united. Again on the same page. No more PA school.

A glimmer of happiness pushed a piece of the gloom on the periphery off the edge. Gloom knew the tide was changing.

A few more days went by. I needed ice – my teacher had changed the syllabus without giving notice and a new chapter had been added to our exam and cold caffeine was the only way I was going to get through the night. Called a friend, who has known us since we were first married. I ran over, she asked about the stress, I explained briefly, and then she offered to bring dinner the following evening. Dinner? Why? One look, not given purposefully by her, gave me the final clue. She remembered. She remembered.

I remembered.

I went home, studied, and within 4 hours, I realized again what needed to be done. He came home.
Brought dinner since I had not taken time to eat since lunch. 9-10 hours. See the pattern? I chatted with him about the craziness of the night and we laughed. Then, he and I began to earnestly talk as the lights were put out around the house. The lamp above the bed gave a rosy and calming illumination to the room. Blankets wrapped around us; anxiety and fear gave way to tranquility and calm peace.

“Do you think I should drop this class?” I asked, anxious a little. I explained my doubts in myself and my future. “What will the children think? So and so has a MS degree and I…”

“Only have 2 degrees and you’re brilliant,” He said.

My gloom gave a shudder…struggling to hold on.

“Do you think you would be happier?” He asked, concerned that I would not see the pattern repeating.

“I know I would be happier. But what would I tell other people? I would feel ashamed, but I know that I need to do something different.”

Feeling encouraged, I explained that I knew I could make the choice and stand by it. I felt that my
priorities were changing. I wanted to work to support my family and have a happy countenance. I knew myself well enough to know that being in school with my current mental attitude would undo all of the progress that I had made within the past year and a half. Gone would be the love of self. Gone would be the happiness of creating something from scratch. Gone would be the ability to support as well as I could someone who deserved all of that support.

If I continued with this class, I would undo all of my progress:

Academic progress < personal progress.

Personal progress > academic progress.

Simple equation, harsh reality, over T.

T = time.

Time remembered gave me the strength to overcome my biggest battle yet – the war I was at with
myself.

Sleep took us. Morning woke us.

I woke up, overjoyed. Just happy. Simply happy. No reason at the break of my dawn, just happiness. As I awoke more fully, I felt the gloom slip past the borders of my periphery. The sunbeams of happiness dashed the dreadful dream to pieces. I was at peace with myself.

Never before had I made this type of decision and been so rewarded.

I wanted to tell everyone! Shouting at early morning hours will surely not bring joy to others, and as
much as I have changed, I still aim to please a little.

I called the institution of higher education, explained my plan. Called Tyler, and as I sat at the computer, with the cursor hovering over the “Drop Class” button, I asked, in a pleading tone, “Will you give me the go ahead?”

“I give you full permission. Ready, set, Go!” He cried.

On ‘go,’ I gave the button a mighty click.

Victory was mine.

___________________________________________________________________________________

I wrote this just a week or so ago.

I'm still trying to hide in my apartment...

Not really, but you know what I mean.

I find a lot of happiness in doing what I know is right for me.

I love watching people decide to go back to school,

I love watching them conquer the difficult tasks.

Most of all, I love watching people follow their dreams.

I'm finally learning to follow mine.

Chicken and White Bean Stew

2011-10-18T22:19:00.001-06:00

So, dinner tonight was delish! I have to share this recipe with you. I thought about taking pictures, but didn't. Oh well. It is quite simple and cooks in the crock-pot! High or low. Which means, you can make this fast or slow!

Chicken & White Bean Stew - Better Homes and Gardens

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into pieces (1")
2 tsp ground cumin
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbs olive oil
2 10-oz pkg refrigerated light Alfredo sauce*
1 15-oz can white kidney beans, rinsed, drained
1 cup reduced-sodium Chicken Broth
1/2 cup chopped red onion (I used a white onion)
1 4-oz can diced green chilies, undrained
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup shredded cheese
Fresh parsley, or the dried herb for a garnish

*I use a to-die-for homemade Alfredo sauce, if I do say so myself. I substituted this homemade sauce for the 2 pkgs of Alfredo.

Alfredo Sauce:
1/2 cup butter
8 oz of cream cheese
1 cup half-n-half (do not use fat free!!!! fat free keeps things from mixing into a smooth solution)
1/3 cup Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Pepper to taste
Herbs after if you'd like
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter. Once butter is almost melted, cut up cream cheese and add it.
- Once butter and cream cheese are mixed well, add the Half-n-half, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
- Take off burner once its sauce-like and set aside to let it thicken.

Stew Directions:
1. Sprinkle chicken with cumin and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Cook chicken, half at a time, in hot oil until brown, or cooked completely. Place chicken in a crock pot.
2. Make Alfredo sauce here if you're using mine, or one of your own!
3. Stir in Alfredo sauce, beans, broth, onion, chili peppers, and garlic.
4. Cover and cook on low heat setting for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-2 1/2 hours. If desired, sprinkle each serving with cheddar cheese and parsley!

*Options:
I would consider adding tomatoes, chopped, to the stew at the end of its cooking time - maybe 5 minutes before you're ready to serve. I think they would taste great. If you don't like tomatoes, add some tabasco sauce. Tyler can't live without it.

I hope you like it! Its perfect for the fall! Add "You've Got Mail" to your background music and you've got one perfect fall afternoon ahead of you! Oh, and the Serendipity Soundtrack.

Happy fall!

shooting sarah

2011-09-22T12:15:00.004-06:00

I love these.

For more, check out the album on flickr.

What do you think?!

Sneak Peek!

2011-09-21T22:46:00.000-06:00

Lovely, isn't she?!

Thanks, Sarah, for being my model!

Just a little peek at my photog session with Jalene!

Thanks you guys!

[unedited, but just you wait!]

My Farewell to Arms...

2011-09-13T21:12:00.000-06:00

The dawn is breaking,

a light shining through.

What are we doing?

Shufflin' to the new routine.

You see,

changes are happening around here.

Goals have been made,

written on the white board,

and are attempting to be conquered.

-take a deep breath-

everything works out.

it always does.

it always will.

Its sorta like being one of the

NKOTB.

And, we're back.

Back at it.

Hittin' the books.

Am I crazy?

Does anyone recall,

with clarity, mind you,

how I act during the "school-season?"

I'm insane.

Forget living.

I live to study.

This semester,

I'm trying new things.

Working a full 7on/7off,

[that's old]

while going to school online.

Harmless, right?

hah.

SO.

Preemptive strike on stress:

1) Daily scripture study, personal + couple

2) Exercise 3x + a week

3) Set a routine

4) I started looking at the budget again

(the budget = as much stress as school)

5) Maybe plan out a meal schedule?

(enter wishful thinking)

6) Keep breathing.

7) Pray.

Remember that entire post I dedicated to faith?

Ironic that now its being tested?

I think not.

More, I think the Lord has a sense of humor

and a plan.

A plan that will make me stronger,

more balanced,

more faithful.

More diligent in His service.

More fervent in prayer.

And so it begins.

Glasses Case!

2011-09-07T23:55:00.000-06:00

Isn't this a darling idea?

I love her blog, and her tutorials are awesome!

I found this little ribbon on a wedding invitation,

so I decided to always have it with me!

[weddings always make me happy!]

I hand stitched the ribbon, since I decided to add it

after

I had already sewn the entire thing.

haha

What do you think!?

Painting Project!

2011-09-06T19:37:00.001-06:00

I know I've been a big tease,

not posting my projects!

Well, I finally cracked.

Here is the first one!

I found this on the side of the road,

after midnight,

with Tyler and Paul.

We put it in the back of the Murano,

under the cover of darkness,

and away we went!

I should have taken a before picture,

but Paul has a before video that he might remember to send me!

It used to be black (on the metal pieces)

and the people before us did something...creative.

They took foam poster board,

spray painted it red,

and then sewed it onto the back of the frame.

I had to use my seam-ripper to get the dang poster board off.

I grabbed some cheap spray paint,

and painted over the black for the first few coats.

Then, I grabbed the Krylon white spray paint,

gloss finish I think.

And bam!

It looks so much better!

We sold our dishwasher (we never used it)

and then I rearranged my entire kitchen to make room!

Its so nice to have this piece.

Especially since its no longer red and black.

[my entire kitchen is white + wood for the moment]

Stay tuned for the sewing projects!

The Australian Takes America by Storm

2011-09-06T18:09:00.000-06:00

My bro-in-law, Paul.

Remember how he came to visit us?

Well, he just happens to love Wal-Mart.

And he loves everyone there.

I'm sure this girl was freaked out. haha

But, Paul needed a picture with everyone!

He shook their hands,

he videoed their encounter,

and he told everyone, "Welcome to Wal-Mart!"

This guy loved Paul.

Maybe I'll find a better picture.

haha

For more information about why Paul loves Wal-Mart, get this:

In Australia, there's a 40% income tax. 40%! Are we serious?!?!

So, after you pay 10% to tithing, and 40% to the gov,

you're bringing home 50% of what you make.

Minimum wage there is $19 (about).

How crappy is that?

So, when Paul came to America,

we went to Wal-Mart everyday.

Can you blame him!?

Next, family game time.

Naturally, whenever Paul + Wendi + the girls come into town,

everyone gathers.

We'd better, considering its a 24 hour travel day.

Wade has to read the rules so Scott won't cheat..

haha jk!

Snorta was the first game that they played! So funny!

Next, they played Shooting Ducks.

Both are stellar!

Iris + Tiia

2 of my favorite nieces!

Tiia is such a great niece - she and I go shopping together,

because she is the fashion guru in my life.

I'm still rocking polos and birkenstocks.

Tiia puts me in cute dresses and tiny belts (via botiques),

etc.

You'd have to see her to believe it.

She's amazing.

Iris.

Need I say more!?

She was born 2 months before Tyler and I were married.

I've been working really hard since then to get her to think I'm the best.

I'm slowly succeeding!!!

This is my SIL Jennine.

She's my lifesaver.

I love her.

Tiia and Iris are hers, along with 3 others.

They're the only grandkids here in the States.

And we love all of them!

ps - i'm in a current love-hate relationship with my hair.

too long? too red?

blah.

And, I didn't really get ready. Don't look too close. haha

Jennine and Lauren attempting to feed Ryan, Jennine's youngest.

She's redoing their basement while taking care of 5 kids.

She knocks down walls,

re-plasters,

paints,

etc.

How. Does. She. Do. It?

Ryan, loving veggies.

Or, something. haha

Tiia + Gus-puppy.

He looks like an Ewalk. (how do you spell that?!)

And, he loves me.

Every time we come to see Ty's parents,

he just jumps all over me!

Ah, I love attention. haha

1. Ryan tries to grab Paul's ear... Micheal-Lee loves it.

2. Attempt number two....

3. Got him!!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ty's Birthday Dinner - Rodizio Grill

Paul + Tyler = hilarious

How awkward is that picture?

bahaha.

The boy + I

Trio.

Paul.

We wish you guys still lived here!!!

We miss you!

Hope to see you in January!!!!

Love, Krista + Tyler

Exercising Faith

2011-08-29T15:07:00.001-06:00

Recently, a friend asked me some questions about faith. I thought a lot about it this morning as I made preparations for dinner/treats/etc, and my morning was a lot better for having started out the day by pondering the doctrines of the gospel. I thought I would share with you what I discovered this morning.

I listened to most of the General Conference talks this morning from April Conf. to help get some ideas rolling.

One talk, by Steven E. Snow entitled, "Hope," caught my attention.

Our hope in the Atonement empowers us with eternal perspective. Such perspective allows us to look beyond the here and now on into the promise of the eternities. We don’t have to be trapped in the narrow confines of society’s fickle expectations. We are free to look forward to celestial glory, sealed to our family and loved ones.

In the gospel, hope is almost always related to faith and charity. President Dieter F. Uchtdorf has taught: “Hope is one leg of a three-legged stool, together with faith and charity. These three stabilize our lives regardless of the rough or uneven surfaces we might encounter at the time” (“The Infinite Power of Hope,” Liahona and Ensign, Nov. 2008, 21).

I really like this passage, because I think it does a great job in explaining why we need hope (because it couples itself with faith, etc).

Also, Alma 32 is an entire chapter about faith.
Alma 32: 21 states, "And now as I said concerning faith - faith is not to have a perfect knowledge of things; therefore if ye have faith ye hope for things which are not seen, which are true." I thought to myself, "What do I have a perfect knowledge of?" And, I couldn't find one thing that I have a perfect knowledge of - I have some knowledge about certain principles of science, of religion, of life even. But, none of my knowledge in these areas are perfect. Think about why we attend the temple. I definitely do not have a perfect understanding of that, which is why I need to return often - I can return and be taught by the spirit, so that my understanding and knowledge of God's plan of happiness will grow.

So it is with life - I need to return to my Heavenly Father often in prayer and in the reading of my scriptures. This will help me to exercise faith by asking Him questions about my life - faith without works is dead, right? So, faith without action is unprofitable. I can have faith that the church is true - but to know for myself, I must act upon the desire to know that the church is true. Faith needs to be constantly exercised. It may be small steps that build our faith, or large, intense spiritual experiences.

Elder David A. Bednar also talks about this last principle, in "The Spirit of Revelation." He mentions that those largely spiritual experiences are rare, and that those of quiet and ever gradual whisperings are more common. So it is with faith. Building your faith doesn't happen in one largely spiritual experience (for most people - see Paul in Acts for such an experience), but it comes little by little - line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little, there a little. Why? Well, I think it helps us to set a pattern of returning to the Lord - if we start while we are young, a pattern of turning to the Lord for guidance, forgiveness, and other such blessings, we will build our faith because He will send His holy spirit to testify to us that the things we learn from such experiences are true. As we gather these experiences, we can look back on our lives and see how our faith in Him has richly blessed us. Ultimately, it takes faith to seek the Lord early.

Faith is also a crucial element of the armor of God, "...take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day. Taking the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit." (Ephesians 6:13. 16-17) Just a quick lesson here. Notice the elements of the armor of God. Most of these are defensive weapons, to protect us against the adversary. Faith is used here to defend us - defend us from what? Perhaps from wavering in the gospel, perhaps from doubt, etc. The only offensive weapon, however, is the sword of the Spirit - which means our testimonies. Our testimony is the only piece of the armor of God that we can use actively to combat Satan and his evil forces. How do we build our testimonies? By exercising faith.

Anywho, I think I have also gained a testimony of why starting your day off with the scriptures is so important.

Circles were never so cool....

2011-08-24T03:10:00.002-06:00

Ty's friend Ethan.

Circus school.

Circles never were so cool, were they?!

I want to do this!

Paul's Sunnies

2011-08-24T03:06:00.000-06:00

Thanks for staying with us Paul!

We'll miss having you here!

-after seeing Captain America, circa 2am-

.holy tired.

now, its 3.

haha

gotta love it!

Family is wonderful.

Sunday Night Adventures

2011-08-21T23:05:00.001-06:00

Lollipops from Australia,

wax from Michelle,

and a willing husband!

Welcome to our Sunday Night Adventures!!

Sweet Verbena

2011-08-15T16:56:00.001-06:00

One of my new favorite blogs:

Sweet Verbena

Can't wait to show you my projects!

They include sewing, dumpster diving, and spray paint.

And, not in that order!

Happy Week On!

working

2011-08-09T23:26:00.000-06:00

I've been working on a few projects...

and I'm excited to show you!

It'll just be a few more days!

In other news,

Tyler is taking graduate classes this fall,

I'm working and taking classes,

and we're loving life.

Also, our BIL (bro-in-law), Paul,

is coming to stay with us for a few weeks!

He's in town from Australia!

Business as usual.

Look for pictures of our adventures!

2011-07-27T23:58:00.000-06:00

2011-07-27T21:37:00.001-06:00

Purchased two of these awesome wall lamps at Ikea today!

They sit above our bed, one on each side.

It makes our bedroom look...well, grown up!

I love that I can just reach on and turn the light off versus twisting!

They're beautiful!

Now...we're looking for a picture to hang in-between!

Oh, I love re-decorating!

Now to find a duvet cover that I like!

Of Things That Matter Most

2011-07-24T23:24:00.002-06:00

image here

Have you ever searched your heart for answers?

Has it turned you inside and out?

I've been at it for a week.

And, I've read this book before,

and the changes I made before were impressive.

Its just getting better.

I feel like I've poured my soul out.

To whom?

No one in particular.

Simply, I've been talking to myself...

something that an Apostle of God told me to do.

"The fourth key relationship is with ourselves. It may seem odd to think of having a relationship with ourselves, but we do. Some people can’t get along with themselves. They criticize and belittle themselves all day long until they begin to hate themselves. May I suggest that you reduce the rush and take a little extra time to get to know yourself better. Walk in nature, watch a sunrise, enjoy God’s creations, ponder the truths of the restored gospel, and find out what they mean for you personally. Learn to see yourself as Heavenly Father sees you—as His precious daughter or son with divine potential."

image here

This is the other book I've been reading this week.

Maybe I haven't just been talking to myself.

I feel that as I re-read these pages,

I can see myself struggling to become something more.

Something more than I am.

Progress is never easy,

but it is worth it, in the end.

2011-07-21T19:26:00.000-06:00

Some of our friends started a SLC eatery blog, and it looks awesome! I've been scrolling through the restaurants and I am so excited to go eat out! haha

Best part? They shoot for $10 and under/person... wow.

Check it out!

http://slccheapeats.blogspot.com/

Picture Posts

2011-07-12T16:07:00.001-06:00

Dear Reader,

Recent studies have shown that books without works,

aka picture books,

assist with learning and development.

The following 4-6 posts,

because I can't remember how many I made,

are all pictures.

I am currently not a fan of editing all of my pictures.

So, they're simply fresh, right out of the camera.

don't judge

Because that's how you would feel,

after getting your first set of fillings.

and your upper wisdom teeth pulled.

No gas.

Ouch.

Instead of sleeping,

I've run through the 1000+ pictures,

and pulled some for your enjoyment!

Enjoy your vicarious trips through

Portland

Vancouver

Bowen Island

and

Seattle.

Portland - Japanese Gardens

2011-07-12T15:52:00.000-06:00

Portland~The City of Roses

2011-07-12T15:39:00.000-06:00

Portland 1

2011-07-12T15:27:00.000-06:00

-DoubleTree Hotel Suites. Lloyd St. Stop. Amazing-

Never been more impressed with a hotel.

Service, cleanliness, fab location.

Go!

-they work really hard to make this sign accurate-

-tyler had to pull me out of this store-

this is my idea of heaven

-portland city grill-

this is no hamburger joint

get the peking duck - we drooled over it all night

30th floor - amazing views

Vancouver, BC

2011-07-12T15:11:00.000-06:00

Bowen Island

2011-07-12T14:49:00.001-06:00

Seattle

2011-07-12T14:37:00.002-06:00

-I spy people walking on the walls! Can you?!=

a glimpse of "c-eh' n-eh' d-eh'"

2011-07-07T23:34:00.003-06:00

a picture of

-canada day, vancouver, bc-

july 1, 2011

-bowen island, nw vancouver, bc-

july 1, 2011

persistence

2011-07-06T21:50:00.002-06:00

"You remember the Duke of Wellington was talking of the Battle of Waterloo

when he said that it was not that the British soldiers were braver than the French soldiers.

It was just that they were brave five minutes longer.

And in our struggles sometimes that's all it takes -

to be brave five minutes longer, to try just a little harder,

to not give up on ourselves when everything seems to beg for our defeat."

-Paul H. Dunn

Pacific Northwest!

2011-06-28T18:02:00.000-06:00

Well, the trip starts tomorrow!

1. SLC - Boise or somewhere in WA

2. Boise - Seattle

3. Seattle - Vancouver, BC

4. Vancouver - Kamloops, BC

5. Kamloops, BC - Vancouver, BC

6. Vancouver, BC - Portland, OR

7. Portland, OR - home!

Congrats to:

Rachel Loftus!!!

Marianne Denison!!!

Rachel Meyenders!!!

Lisa Romish!!!

We'll be sending postcard love to our lovely winners, and posting pics soon!

Wish us luck!

Fun Facts - Clues to Vacay Trip

2011-06-26T16:10:00.000-06:00

I realized that my hints about our trip were so vague, and Hikari actually guessed one! Hikari, send me your addy in Boston!

Here are a few more fun hints!!!!! Feel free to Google away and then leave your guess for where we're going!!

City Clues:

1. _______ 1919 was the first general strike in the country. 60,000 shipyard workers walked off their jobs. All power to the people!

2. ______________ hasn't had polling places anywhere in the state for over a decade. All voting is done by a mail-in paper ballot. (You can also drop your ballot off up until 8PM on election day at a drop-off point.) This state has one of the highest voting rates in the US!

[just leave a guess for a city in this great state!]

ps - Ty served his mission here.

3. This capital city, __________, is geothermally heated from underground hot springs.

4. Popular attractions in the city include Stanley Park, Granville Island and Robson Street.

(Hikari, this is right up your alley!)

Game on!!!!

Pre-Trip Purchase

2011-06-22T22:56:00.000-06:00

Just bought new boat shoes for the trip!!!

[sperry, top-sider. 70% off. thank you nordstroms!]

See below to guess where we're headed!!!!

We're going on a trip! Copy Cat Edition...

2011-06-21T20:58:00.001-06:00

For the 4th of July [mostly the proceeding week], we're going on a trip! I love an idea my friend has, so I'm going to copy~cat it here! [don't be mad rach! haha]

----If you guess one of the 5 places we're going, I'll send you a post card, from that location---

and!

if you already know where we're going - no guessing for you!

First, 5 clues:

1. We're driving from Utah.

2. We're going to 5 cities...4 of which I've never been to.

3. The drive will encompass 4 days of driving, 1 of flying, 1 overnight stay without our road trip buddies, and 1 flight back home.

4. Tyler and I are stoked to use our passports again!!

5. One of these cities was voted the most "livable" place a year or so ago....

[doesn't every city boast that?! haha]

So, game on! Guess away! So many pictures to come! Expect post cards during the 1st week of July!

Game runs until June 28th.....

Lake Blanche Trail
June 2011
~
I need to post about our hikes! All in due time...

Hope you're having a great week!

2011-06-16T01:15:00.000-06:00

Breathtaking.

More to come!

2011-06-08T20:58:00.000-06:00

My last week off looked a lot like this:

Farkle.

Picnic lunches.

Lounging in the sunshine, chomping chips + guac.

Chatting with the friends of the village.

BBQ every other night.

Thinking about my week on looked a lot like this:

Thanks to phone cameras,

your face can be washed out and look fat all in the same frame.

But, I actually like this picture.

Probably because I really love us.

No matter what.

I miss the boy this week.

Here's to cooking for real when he gets back.

we're definitely better together :)

Financial Plans?

2011-05-30T17:01:00.002-06:00

The other day, someone asked us to come to a financial planning meeting, where we'd get our finances analyzed, a forecast prepared, and additional advice regarding investing, etc - for free. So, because we 1) like the idea of free financial assistance from a trusted source, and 2) wanted to help this person, we said yes.

Now, I know I'm not a very exciting person. Ask my roommates from college. I studied. I played sports. Then, instead of eating or sleeping, I studied more. Stress was my constant companion. Well, when you're that involved in an affair with your GPA, you rarely have time to spend money. Hence, I didn't budget because I didn't spend. In fact, I came out of college with $0 in debt.

My parents are also extremely frugal. When gas was $0.87/gallon, we'd drive around to different grocery stores to save 10 cents on meat - an exaggeration, but not by much! My parents are great examples of living within your means. I've learned the distinct difference between needs and wants - I've known that since I could write my name.

I have regrets - not playing more in college, not relaxing and most importantly - I took myself too seriously. I'm a lot better at this now, but mostly because I married someone who helps me identify when I'm about to start down that path, and that pattern has led to a change in behavior. Thankfully!

But, I don't regret being financially responsible.

-Cue Financial Planner-

He looks at our numbers, drools over how much my company contributes to my 403(b), and loves how much we've done - we have no debt, etc. Great.

Then, he asks us about our dreams. [Remember, I'm a pretty dull person, apparently.]

I look to Tyler. He mentions that we'd like to start a family and own a home someday. [Please notice the word, someday.]

The planner begins to drill us - what about travelling all over the world? What about this, that, and the other things!? His son is traveling Eurpoe with his wife, he speaks 4 languages, and he's interning with the State Dept. in Albania or something.

I don't have much to say. I need more advice on investing, not saving for a trip to Europe, amongst other things.

Anywho, the guy eventually breaks my silent streak. He tells me I live in a box. [He isn't the first one.] I said thank-you. He's shocked. I mention to him that I believe in being financially responsible first and foremost. I have dreams, but I know that they're not the most important things in my near future.

He asks what they are - truthfully, I'd give anything to be a National Geographic photographer. Ty's an anthropologist - as he travels, wouldn't it be great to be a photojournalist for National Geographic!?

He grins, because he thinks we're getting somewhere.

In the end, he brings the discussion back to owning a house. [In my world, I would like to own a home within the next 10 years.] I once had a co-worker who told me that if I could, I should only take out a mortgage that was 2x what we made anually. The financial planner says, "Is your box even going to have windows?!?" [I love windows. And, that struck a nerve.]

I came home and cried and cried and cried.

What's wrong with me?

Now, this may sound a little self-serving, but I don't think that anything is wrong with me. I refuse to live like the other 98% of Americans. I don't want to keep up with the Joneses [did anyone else see that movie!?]. I mean, it'd be fantastic to live a lifestyle without worries. Oh wait! Being financially responsible allows me to do just that. However, that doesn't mean that I can just up and purchase anything, go anywhere at anytime - that sort of thing. Remember, I am somewhat intelligent - I know that debt will come knocking on my doorstep quickly [grad school, kids, eventually achiving my dream of owning a home, etc].

sigh

The kicker is: I would really die to visit the Myan ruins, the underground city in Jerusalem, travel through Italy, visit Ukraine, and backpack through all of Europe.

The difference is - I can do all of those things, but I don't have to do them now. I don't need those things.

My Ultimatum

I told the financial planner that I was an 85 yr old woman in a 25 yr old's body.

I plan on living frugally. I want to help those around me.

I don't need a new house tomorrow.

I don't need a $10,000 credit limit.

I don't need to travel everywhere before 40.

[even if I would love to]

I have a plan for my life.

I receive constant guidance for that plan.

From someone who knows what will bring me true happiness.

This plan is not the same for everyone.

That's why I live vicariously through so many of you.

I'm so grateful to friends who travel.

I'm so grateful to friends who experience life whim by whim!

I am not jealous; I don't disagree with that lifestyle.

I understand that the plan for you and for me are inherntly different.

Just like we are all different.

I don't particularly love it when others,

namely financial planner dude,

can't get their heads around that.

So, ultimately:

At the end of all things, I don't think that God is going to say with scorn,
"Why didn't you travel all over Europe?"

"Why didn't you buy that enormous house?"

"Why didn't you get a new car every year?"

"Why didn't you spend more money that you made so that you could impress others?"

I think that God will ask me:

"What did you do to build up my kingdom?"

And, I realize that the answer to that question is going to differ for everyone.

I find myself not knowing how to wrap this 'entry' up.
I just know I am trying to do my best.
That's all my dad ever asked of me.
That's what I'm going to try to give,
and this is a motto I could live by:

"It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live, remember that."

[HP #1]

1+1

2011-05-28T22:15:00.002-06:00

Just when I thought the world had run out of love songs...

Yahoo! wrote this article - I've siphoned a bit, but you can find the original article here.

'Following the "Idol" broadcast, Beyoncé's husband, Jay-Z, posted behind-the-scenes footage of his wife singing her new emotional ballad "1+1" in her dressing room. Accompanied by a pianist and her background singers, Beyoncé simply stands in front of a vanity mirror with her head humbly held low and eyes closed as she belts her way through the lyrics while her mother, nephew, and cousin, among others, watch in awe.

Jay-Z, who actually videotaped the clip, stressed the uniqueness of the stripped-down run-through. "This is the dressing-room rehearsal for 'American Idol,'" he wrote on his Life+Times website under the pseudonym Andy WarHOV. "'NO MICROPHONE. No effects."'

I love the raw version.

Its so much better than the produced one - can't you just feel the emotion?

the hills are alive...

2011-05-27T13:23:00.001-06:00

with the sound of music!

My next-door neighbor bought a piano,

moved 3 yrs later,

and gave it to me for free!

It had 11 broken hammers, 3 missing dampeners, etc.

A nice man named Paul fixed it for $150.

That, my friends, is a steal.

The living room is a little cramped, but hello.
We live in the projects.

And, almost everything in this room was free.

No complaints here!

Now, to get back to where my talent used to be.

Practice, practice, practice.

One day, I'm going to be besides myself

when I can play without the soft pedal held down through every song.

Cheers!

Hiking the Mountain

2011-05-26T22:10:00.000-06:00

Once graduation was confirmed, I decided we should take a hike!

And so we did.

To the top of my mountain.

I watch people climb this mountain daily, and I stare out at them

from my windows at work.

longing to be free.

haha

We reached the 1st of 3 peaks, and had a picture break!

My building is directly the the upper-left of Ty's left elbow.

Our home is just 2 blocks left of that!

Its so nice to walk!

[especially in under 7 minutes!]

It was the nicest day ever.

Thank you Utah!

Um, I happen to be quite involved when I read.

The day before, I had sat outside, reading "The King in the Window."

A great novel.

Well, I forgot that I had a hole across my left knee

in the jeans I wore while outside.

This burn was the result.

Yep.

One burn in one spot.

Just happened to be in the middle of my leg.

Nice.

2nd Summit!

We made it!

The Peak.

Oh my.

Seriously, its so high up!!!!!

Evaluating our progress....

I had to text/call my work.

I had a post-it hung up at work with my 2010 goals.

Climbing this mountain was one of them.

Everyone asked, asked, and asked, "Have you climbed your mountain yet?!"

I called them, waved, and I am now famous.

Candid shot.

Good one, Tyler!

Tyler, master of the mountain!

Pause.

Rock in shoe.

Sucks.

haha

This is the view from the 2nd summit, looking up!

That's where we were!

2nd summit, looking down at the 1st summit.

Man.

It doesn't look this big from the front!

We took a different path down the mountain.

We found a rock-wall!

Tyler....

'nuff said.

Pretty little grove/trail.

It was so much easier going down through this trail.

On our way up, we hiked directly up the mountain.

Like, at a 60 degree angle.

haha

Rewards:

beautiful views

amazing exercise

the best company

I am so excited for summer.

May 2011

Graduation!

2011-05-26T20:24:00.000-06:00

Congrats, Tyler!

You made it!

This boy is amazing.

He put me before him while I got my 2nd degree in Medical Laboratory Science.

Yes, I am a certified scientist! haha

He graduated on the Dean's List

[and a whole lot of other honors],

and this was after taking a year and a half off to put me through school!

He graduated with a major in Anthropology,

and minors in Middle Eastern Studies and Religious Studies.

He's brilliant.

We're applying for jobs all over the world.

Yes, world.

South Korea, Washington D.C., and Belgium.

Wish us luck!

Tyler, his brother Mike, and Mike's wife, Michael-Lee,

all graduated together, same college convocation, etc!

Mike is getting a PhD in Statistics/Epidemiology

and Michael-Lee, Summa Cum Laude!

Congrats to all of you!!!!

happy face

2011-05-26T20:13:00.000-06:00

I've made a few discoveries this past month. And they've been the best!

I must preface with a personal struggle.

Acne.

I've beat myself up for as long as I can remember for not being pretty.

I used to not be able to walk down the driveway without makeup on,

to get the mail from the mailbox,

because I hated how I looked.

I've tried everything.

Neutrogena, Clearasil, Clinique.

Acutane.

[worst ever]

Proactiv-made it worse.

I've tried hand soap - that works well, actually.

Birth control.

You name it.

I've tried it.

And, its been a long struggle to love myself despite this enormous,

and oh-so obvious flaw.

hard

I have come to terms with myself.

I told myself, looking into the mirror w/o makeup

at BYU-I,

that one day, I would make a beautiful wife.

Someone would love me.

Despite it all.

Now I have that.

And better, I'm learning to love myself.

I would like to announce a few things that I've finally discovered,

that create a happy face!

[besides dropping the intense self-loathing haha]

These are 2 of my favorite, current products!

doTERRA Facial Cleanser & Oatmeal Soap

-the facial cleanser is kinda interesting.

Get this - you wash off your face [get rid of makeup; at least this is what I do], dry it,

then you rub a dime-size of the cleanser all over your face and neck.

Its melaluca and peppermint, and it feels like cream!

Then, once its rubbed in, you wash it off with hot water, and a washcloth.

Wow. It leaves your face feeling so...bright!

It doesn't dry you out, make you oily, etc.

Just perfect.

-oatmeal soap

this I found at WinCo.

My co-worker pays $8 a bar.

I paid $0.93

Oatmeal is used for people with sensitive skin [uh, yah. that's me]

This is the best way to start a new regimen!

It smells like an oatmeal cookie in a way.

And, it exfoliates!

This is a happy face!

-can you tell I've just come home from work?

iPod still in, scrubs on, and tired!

Next.

I'm running a clinical trial on myself.

I wear Este Lauder "Double Wear" makeup.

That stuff doesn't even come off when you're swimming in Lake Powell.

Seriously.

[I am taking recommendations for new cover-up/foundation if you have any!!]

So, scrubbing it, washing my face all the time, leaves me dry.

And I have combination skin.

Dry here, oily there.

I've used all sorts of facial lotions.

[see references above!]

My sister recommended the Clinique you see before you.

I'm having limited success with that, but I still love it!

So, my friend Emily recommended something interesting!

I put a few tbs of olive oil in that clear bottle,

4 drops of Frankincense Oil, 4 drops of Melaluca Oil

and wha-la!!!!

Best facial moisturizer ever.

You would think that it leaves your face oily.

You would be so wrong!

I was delighted!

The other bottle I have pictured is called "Purify."

This one is a knock-out.

You know when you have a large zit that you'd like to leave?

One drop of this onto it and bam! Its gone.

Even if you've already picked it.

It zaps it. Good-bye!

And that, my friends,

leaves me with a happy face!

email me if you have any questions!

lilbebedoll19@gmail.com

?

2011-05-20T18:19:00.000-06:00

well.

we are alive.

things i have yet to blog about:

tyler graduating

hiking the mountain

temple trip today

amazing steals on BR dresses

job hunting

doTERRA

and soooooo much more.

But, it finally started shining right now - as in sunshining. I can't be held responsible. The sun is touching my face. I promise to come back...someday.

.spring is in the film.

2011-04-27T21:13:00.001-06:00

Jen and I took a sunshine break at work today.

We both have the same camera.

She teaches.

I listen.

We click.

Sigh.

Go back into work.

-70 degrees today and th, snow on fri-

utah weather is a fickle lover.

I can't wait to edit these, esp the b&w.

The colors are going to be inspiring.

Thanks Jen!

bad day - funny story

2011-04-26T22:58:00.001-06:00

Saturday.

Stressful.

Excited, but stressed.

I was on my

Get it?

Woke up all night long.

Un-comfy.

Do-able.

Cramps.

Worst.Ever.

So, when I woke up at 11:30,

I decided to get ready.

Minus the electircity that was no longer working in our building.

[which is why I woke up at 8 to do my hair. and fall asleep on it again.]

Then, I made a trip to Target.

Bought Easter supplies.

3 stupid indie rock girls annoyed me.

[hello. bad cramps + pms + stupid girls? yah. no.]

Left.

Got home.

Did chores.

SO excited to paint my nails.

Open nail polish.

.......

no brush.

-enter bitterness, resentment, anger, and need for chocolate-

called Kels.

head back to Target.

.....

Get to Target.

Exchange nail polish.

Always checking from now on.

-you should too!-

Kels goes to try on a bra, I shop for cute new underwear.

Answer a phone call,

find cute underwear,

end phone call,

Kels comes out,

purchases are made,

and we scream about funny things all the way home.

...

I run to show Tyler my new underwear!!!

I'm so excited.

I rip open the package,

start taking out the first pair of underwear.

I unroll,

keep unrolling,

and finally

.................................

[ i bought the size 9. see size charts for comparison. i'm not even a size 5 on their list.]

I guess I was feeling pretty bloated.

Just one of those days.

.essential.

2011-04-25T23:29:00.000-06:00

I finally did something I thought I would never do.
I started a business.
Best part?
The product sells itself, because it actually helps people.
None of this "mumbo-jumbo" in a pill,
timeshare,
or high monthly costs.

I'm no expert, but I've seen them work.
When I heard people talk about it, I felt that it could help me,
and help people in my life that struggle with health problems, weight loss, etc.
To me, that's worth all the money in the world.

.........

Have you ever heard of Essential Oils, by doTERRA?

Well, I know some of my friends/readers on here absolutely love them.

Hello.

Have you met me?

I'm about as western medicine as they come.

I work in that field.

Oils?

What are they going to do?

Is that like snake-skin oil?!

Well, I have got to tell you.

They are like freakin miracles in a bottle.

I've watched my friends overcome asthma, morning sickness,

weight-loss (as in they lost some!), and much much more!

I borrowed their textbook from a friend, and oh my.

The organic chemistry is fascinating!!!!

[not that anyone else cares...haha]

We had a class, and some great friends came along:

Emily and Cassey taught the class - they are so great.
I work with Emily - she and I are the western medicine junkies.
Her story is so hilarious.

This is the best part about classes - you can sample the oils,
find which one works for you,
and then purchase something if you want.
I like that these classes aren't pushy.
And, no timeshares :)

I ordered a family physician kit,
which contains the 10 oils we talk about in class.
My friend Katy uses them for morning sickness.
I used one for Ty called DeepBlue for his muscle aches from breakin.
He's feeling good so far :)

Anywho, a big thanks to my friends who came tonight!!

Eliza loved it.
Every minute of it!
Her mom, Sarah, is way more Eastern Medicine than I am.
Sarah said, "Krista?! You're looking into doTERRA?"
haha
She didn't believe that I'd ever do this!

A big thanks to Sarah, baby Eliza, Kelsie, and Shae for coming!
And to Emily and Cassey for teaching/hosting!
I'll post more about what essential oils are in the future,
but tomorrow is my first day on for work.
Bedtime!

If you're curious, I posted my link below.
Feel free to leave comments/ask questions!

http://www.doterra.myvoffice.com/kristahaus

My First...

2011-04-09T14:50:00.001-06:00

CAR!

Ok.

I am very excited to announce the arrival of Thor, my very first car ever.

He's sleek, silver, and fast.

Roomy, comfy, and pimp [if I do say so myself].

I cannot tell you how rewarding it is to save up for something!!!

This is my second grown-up purchase!

I am quite thrilled!

We are loving it.

And even better were the people we bought it from.

We're totally BBQing with them later in the month!

A new car is great; new friends are better.

Well, almost :)

-2006 Nissan Murano-

.reality.check.

2011-04-02T20:10:00.001-06:00

All time fav.

After seeing this, I don't know why people still listen to Brittany Spears. No offense, but really? You'd pass up real, soulful music for washed out Spears?

Reality. Check.

-wished I had known she was coming to SLC for a concert-

I. Love. Adele.

Conference Cake

2011-04-02T20:00:00.000-06:00

My Grandma Sanders invites us all up to her house for the afternoon session of General Conference - but you have to get there at noon to have dinner! Its such a fun gathering, especially for someone like me who grew up without grandparents, cousins, aunts, and uncles [and no, I'm not capitalizing those correctly - its my week on].

Bummer of a deal - I have to work. Not a huge surprise, but I do get Easter off this year! Here's to 1 holiday off! haha

Anyway, Tyler called my grandma and asked what he could bring to the festival/dinner. He was assigned cake. As its Saturday night, guess who's making the cake?!

MB, I know you love cake, and this one is simple - totally beneath your usual repertoire, but you must try it!

And I give you: the old but new,

Conference Cake

Filling:

2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 cup chopped pecans - ew. I do not do nuts in cake. bleh. or ice cream. or cookies. -shudder-

Glaze:

1 1/2 cups confectioners' sugar
2 tablespoons milk
2 tablespoons lemon juice

Cake:

1 package golden cake mix
4 large eggs
1 cup sour cream
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup water
1/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Directions

For streusel filling, combine all ingredients and set aside. Blend glaze ingredients and set aside.

For cake:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Combine cake mix, eggs, sour cream, oil, water, sugar and flour in a large mixer bowl. Beat at medium speed for 3 minutes with electric mixer. Pour 1/2 of batter into a greased 13 by 9-inch pan. Sprinkle streusel filling on top and swirl the filing. Spoon remaining batter evenly over filling. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in pan 25 minutes invert onto serving plate, cool completely.

For glaze:

Combine sugar, milk and lemon juice in bowl. Whisk until smooth. Drizzle over cake. [hint: if you're not looking for an overly powerful lemon zest flavor, take the lemon juice back a notch to like 2 teaspoons.]

Let it be known that I would rather have pie than cake, but this cake is soooooo good. I lick the cake batter right off of the spatula. oooo my. And, just so you know, this recipe has been on the back of the Duncan Hines box for a million years. Totally comfort cake!

And why, you ask, are there no pictures?

Because:

1. I'm beat.

2. I'm reading Jane Eyre and I cannot put it down in order to pick up the camera.

3. I'm listening to Adele while singing/washing dishes/getting back to Jane Eyre.

4. Because you should make it yourself and enjoy!

Happy Conference Weekend!

loved the sessions today.

so fed.

blessed.

inspired.

hope you are too.

Samoas

2011-03-23T09:57:00.000-06:00

Two weeks ago our friends gave us some Samoas - you know, the Girl Scout Cookies? Well, I'm not a fan of coconut, but o my! This time, I was completely won over by the gooey chocolate/caramel combo that the coconut actually tasted yummy!

[When I was 8, I ate 3/4 of a 16oz bag of coconut. You wouldn't like it after that either. Ugh.]

- what I wore Tuesday. don't mind the futon being folded down... -

I kept dreaming about those Samoas long after they were gone.

I could taste them during my breaks at work - oh it was painful.

I decided I would just make them. From scratch.

Now I know why the make them in a factory.

If you'd like to try - here goes!

You'll need THIS link.

Begin.

First things first: Samoas are part shortbread. It doesn't take long, so make them using the following:

1 cup (2 sticks) butter, room temperature
115g (1/2 cup) sugar
250g (2 cups) all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Cream together your butter and sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add this to the butter mixture.

Finally, at low speed, add in the milk and vanilla.

Separate the dough into halves and wrap in plastic or store in tupperware. Refrigerate until the dough is as firm as a stick of butter.

***I left mine sitting in tupperware for 2 days, because I simply didn't have the time to make the actual topping part until yesterday. I'm so glad I waited. ***

If you've clicked on the link above, you'll have the actual recipe. I'm not trying to cop out, but its a lot of important wording. Read it all! She does a fabulous job of telling you what to do.

A trick I found: when you're rolling out the cookie batter, do use lots of flour! Its a good dough, so it can take a little bit more of the flour incorporation when rolling out. However, it really does get super sticky as it warms up, which means it'll start to not cooperate.

Roll out the cookie dough until 1/4" or 1/8" [a little thicker is better for later on down the road], and place the scraps right back in the refrigerator - I just kept using the original tupperware.

I didn't have a cookie cutter that was circular, so I improvised:

Can you find what I used? haha They're pretty hidden. I used a white circular apparatus that's used for something else and a mellon-baller. Yah. Right by the rolling pin.

Your house will get messy.

DO rotate the cookie sheet every 5-6 minutes as you cook. Smart.

I didn't have parchment paper, so I just used cooking spray, and they came off so smoothly and tasted great!

The aftermath for the "Cookie Making Part:"

Whew.

Take 2:

Samoas Recipe

For the topping, you'll need:
    •    225g (3 cups) shredded unsweetened coconut, toasted
    •    15-oz soft caramels (I recommend making your own if you have the time!)
    •    1/4 tsp salt
    •    3 tbsp milk
    •    8 oz. dark or semisweet chocolate

Prepare the dough according to the shortbread recipe. [see above]

--Again, I'm going to refer you to the link because she went through a lot of work to put her website together, and she did a great job!--

But here are my edited comments:

1. You're going to toast coconut on a cookie sheet for 10-15 mins. I recommend using a cookie sheet that has high sides! Makes it a lot easier to stir/flip.

2. If you're using hard caramels to melt, she recommends adding a little bit more milk. I missed that the first 5 times around. It really will make your topping go a bit further, and you'll be able to add that entire 3rd cup of coconut.

3. Also, hard caramels are sold in 14oz bags at my grocer's. I didn't even bother trying to count out an extra ounce. But, as I said in step 2, it will make your topping go a bit further! So feel free to add a few more and melt them down!

4. I used a knife to force the topping onto the cookie - man, that's something you just have to get the knack for. Its resilient stuff. You can always pop in back in the microwave for a second or two, just so the caramel is a bit more pliable. I didn't. I just fought with it!

Sorry for the crappy pics - but you have got to bust a freakin move when you make these!!!

5. I only broke one cookie. I suggest using equal force from underneath the cookie [where you're holding it] and from the force of the knife applying the topping - you do have to be a bit crafty in how you get the topping to stay on the cookie instead of on your finger.

Best part: when the topping hardens, you can handle the entire cookie to dip it in chocolate, so I guess its good that the topping is so resilient.

6. I placed the cookies, at each stage, on wax paper and put back in my fridge to cool/harden. My kitchen was a freakin sauna. Ah! So hot. haha And I was wearing a sweater. uhhh yeah.

7. Melt chocolate down and dip the cookie into the chocolate - I just held onto the cookie with my hands. MUCH easier than using anything like a tool. Plus, you get the extra chocolate :)

Let them cool, and do the next batch while they harden. I used "Candy Coating - Chocolate" which is like almond bark. Much easier to use than melting down chocolate chips.

See my broken cookie? Still worth saving :)

She recommends putting the chocolate in a little baggie, cutting off a corner, and then drizziling it over the cookie.

Warning: if the chocolate isn't hot enough, it won't drizzle out.

if the chocolate is too hot, you'll burn your hand trying to hold the dang bag. Ouch! haha

I cannot keep fighting with the pictures - so this one is sideways! Sorry! haha

Long post, but one I needed to record. Man. These take a long time, but taste soooo good! Let them sit a minute once you pull them out of the fridge, and then enjoy!!! So worth it! [maybe once a year!]

Backup Dreams

2011-03-22T17:50:00.002-06:00

This week Ty and I have "Spring Break" at the same time. For once, my week off coincided with his Spring Break. How awesome is that? Maybe we'll randomly go to CA again, like we did last summer!

-sigh. remember when my hair was that color?-

We've decided to plan for the Backup Dreams.

First things first. The Graduate School Dilemma.

-where do we go from here?-

pic from last summer

-Tyler, when forced to apply for grad programs [by me?! never!], told me he didn't feel good about applying. He's glad he did, b/c now he knows WAY more about it.
-I like to take advantage of every opportunity. And, if you know me, you'll know how much I love school. [Today I told my dad I wanted to sign up for Calc 1 again. He asked me if I would use it at work. I said, "No. But it would be fun to do over the summer!" Even he thinks I'm nuts.]
-We found out that we didn't get into grad school this year.
-The best part: how happy, giddy, excited, and at peace we felt! How funny?! Yeah. I thought so, too.

Seriously. I thought I would be so bummed out.

And I wasn't. Not even a little bit.

Its nice to know how right it feels.

Especially when you've been stressing about making 2 sets up backup plans.

"Do we move here, or wait? Do we have kids yet, or wait?"

Now, everything feels right.

That's better than the alternative.

By a lot.

I grinned from ear to ear, jumped up and down, the works!!

[So did Tyler haha]

Oh my. I cannot tell you what an answer to prayer it is to not get into a grad school yet.

And honestly, I'd never thought I'd feel that way.

Its nice to know my heart can still change.

Secondly. The Future.

-grateful that my future holds these people-

-I really dislike the unknown. That's really all.
-But, I love to plan.
-I planned a trip to San Fran, which we ended up not taking, but I loved every minute of planning it!! What's wrong with me!? [So, people have started asking me to plan their trips for them! I get just as much joy out of planning the trips as they get from going. Its a perfect set-up. I get to plan, they spend the money. Works like a charm! haha]
-We're thinking about buying an SUV.
-Oh. My. Heck. Are we serious? Have you ever spent an entire morning reading car reviews by consumers? Eek! I want to drive this now.
-Cars in the running:

1. Honda Pilot

2. Chevy Equinox

[just drove a 2008 - ah!!!!! so nice]

3. Nissan Murano/Rogue

4. Toyota Highlander

5. Jeep Compass/Cherokee

6. Acura MDX

[another favorite!]

7. Lexus RX300 or 350

[ok, not reasonable, but I still love this car. a lot.]

8. Hundai Santa Fe

The list could go on and on, but we're test driving lots this week.

Voice your opinions if you've driven, owned, or loathed one of these vehicles.

Remember, I need the following:

-Front Wheel Drive or AWD/4WD

-Sunroof [not a need, according to Tyler haha]

-Ok mpg

-ROOM

Yeah. That's it.

Third. Moving.

-We're looking for apartments. All over the Valley.

-Fun, b/c I like to plan.

-Sad, b/c I don't want to move.

-Regardless, change comes and moves things along.

Best thing about all of it?

1. It feels right.

2. Lots of friends having babies w/in the next few months!

This means Aunt Krista to the rescue!!! So excited!

3. A year of fun for Ty and I, since we'll both be working.

4. More opportunities to grow.

5. It feels right.

.just like this.

The Only Thing...

2011-03-17T21:53:00.002-06:00

The only thing that went right today was the hot water in the shower.

Thank heavens for indoor plumbing.

On the street where you live...

2011-03-08T19:10:00.003-07:00

This is the street where I live.

In March.

This is the accumulation of snow in less than 12 hours.

These boots were made for walkin', and that's what I tried to do.

See anything tasty? [made by Hostess..]

[totally reminded me of twinkies. and now i want some.]

I'm pretty sure an abominable snowman lives in there.

I bet he's under the age of 5.

Does this remind you of "The Goonies" at all?

1-eyed Willie. In ghost/snowman form.

Built before 9 am.

That, my friends, is dedication.

[or insanity haha]

Beautiful.

A video game character came out to play in the snow, too!

Can you find him?

[pac-man, middle left]

My darling friend, Amber, wrote this on Facebook before it snowed:

"I think if it's going to be allowed to snow, we should at least get another Christmas! The whole shabang... presents, Santa Clause, sugar cookies, and 2 weeks off work!!!"

Merry March Christmas, Amber!

[well, more like Merry Christmas to me. I get 1 week off of work...and I can eat cookies.... Close enough!]

The clear blue sky started to peak through on my way back...

The good firemen were out, getting ready to save lives.

[They must save alot, because they pull out and blare their sirens 5+ times a day. Oh, and 3+ at night, too.]

The path back to my house...

Lovely, isn't it?

[I still like it better when there are green leaves on the trees... hint, hint spring!!!]

My window + dead plant.

I can't remember whether that plant is an annual or a perennial.

-Enter science experiment-

I'm testing Darwin's theory; we'll see if its fit enough to survive this winter or not.

Well, if it ever turns to spring, I guess.

Thanks for coming on a walk down the street where I live.

Shake! Shake! Shake!

2011-02-18T08:55:00.002-07:00

Don't Talk To Me...

2011-02-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

image here

"Under certain circumstances, urgent circumstances, desperate circumstances, profanity provides a relief denied even to prayer."

-Mark Twain

...because I'm trying not to talk.

Need something tasty for dinner?!

2011-02-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

You must try these: Baked Creamy Chicken Taquitos

Simply delicious.

Simply simple.

Best part? Mine looked exactly like her picture. That's my favorite kind of recipe!

Here's the recipe! [my revisions are to the side of the ingredients haha]
1/3 C (3 oz) cream cheese   [we used 1/3 less fat...the one that starts with Nuf... blah blah blah]
1/4 C green salsa     [in a tiny can at the store]
1T fresh lime juice [I didn't have fresh limes, so I just scraped out some lime with a fork - so good!]
1/2 t cumin
1 t chili powder    [I put in 2 sprinkles. I am a WIMP when it comes to chili powder]
1/2 t onion powder
1/4 t granulated garlic
3 T chopped cilantro [oh my. I barely used one T]
2 T sliced green onions

2 C shredded cooked chicken
     This is how I cooked my chicken: I put a frozen boneless, skinless chicken breast in a crock pot on high for 5-6 hours. I added 1 can of chicken broth, a 1/2 cup water, a dash of Mrs. Dash seasoning, 1 tsp garlic, and some onion powder [since I was out of actual onion]. Then, you just shred it with a fork. It is delightfully aromatic, and tastes amazing with this recipe!

1 C grated pepperjack cheese

small flour tortillas
kosher salt
cooking spray

Heat oven to 425. Line a baking sheet with foil and lightly coat with cooking spray.

Heat cream cheese in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds so it's soft and easy to stir. Add green salsa, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, onion powder and granulated garlic. Stir to combine and then add cilantro and green onions. Add chicken and cheese and combine well.
You can prepare up to this step ahead of time. Just keep the mixture in the fridge.

Work with a few tortillas at a time and heat in the microwave until they are soft enough to roll without cracking. It helps to place them between damp paper towels. Usually 20-30 seconds will do it. If you find yours are cracking when you roll them or come unrolled right away, just try heating them longer and try the paper towel thing.

Place 2-3 T of chicken mixture on the lower third of a tortilla, keeping it about 1/2 inch from the edges. [I used a cookie scoop. Very fun!]

Then roll it up as tight as you can.

Place seam side down on the baking sheet. Lay all of the taquitos on the baking sheet and make sure they are not touching each other. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or an oil mister and sprinkle some kosher salt on top.

Place pan in oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crisp and the ends start to get golden brown.

Dip 'em in salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or this dressing.

This blog is lovely! The recipe is linked above, and since, once again, we ate dinner too fast to take pictures, please love hers @ the top of the post! Try it out!!!

Valentine's Love

2011-02-14T15:42:00.000-07:00

Kindle.

Because that's what Love is all about.

We're pretty excited about it.

Thanks, Ty!!!

I love my Valentine's Day Present!

[I told Tyler that for his Valentine's Day Present, I'll let him use it hahahaha]

Orange-Ginger Chicken

2011-02-11T21:35:00.000-07:00

Ok, here's the dish that made my Thursday night a complete hit! And, it was completely picture perfect, but I ate it before I remembered to take any pictures... I hate it when that happens!

What You'll Need:
2 tsp Canola Oil - I used Olive Oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 scallions, thinly sliced - keep green and white parts separate * I used green onions
2 tbs grated ginger root (an absolute must)
1 tbs hoisin sauce or soy sauce
2 tbs orange juice concentrate

--I took out 2 frozen, b-s chicken breasts and let them thaw for a few hours before making. This is a time saver extraordinaire!--

-> What you need to know about ginger root:

This is what it looks like. Its sensationally aromatic, and very easy to use - it just looks intimidating. First, start by peeling off a portion of the outer-root. It comes off quickly and easily with the use of a potato-peeler [the same thing you use to peel carrots]. It will be yellow-ish on the inside - grate this! Then, a part of your cheese grater should have slightly smaller holes than what you'd use to grate cheese with; use that one; it has slightly bigger holes than a zester! [If you're like me, its the one you've never used before!] Grate the ginger and enjoy the fresh aroma! Its delish!

Make It 1-2-3!
1. Heat oil in a small, heavy-bottomed skillet over med-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper (I season one side, put them in the pan, and while one side is cooking, I season the other side so its ready to flip). Brown chicken on both sides, about 3 mins. per side.
2. Add scallion [or green onion] white parts and the ginger. Cook for 1 min, stirring. Add orange juice concentrate, soy sauce, and 1-2 tbs water. Bring to a simmer and cook until chicken is cooked through, about 3 mins.
3. Remove pan from heat, stir in scallion greens, and serve.

This is wonderful with rice, Noodle Stir Fry [this has noodles + veggies], or broccoli.

Let me know what you guys think of it when you try!!!!! Its my new favorite. Yum! Oh, and don't forget to post pictures!

Spring Transitions

2011-02-07T20:07:00.001-07:00

Spring Transitions by lilbebedoll19 featuring brown shoes

Covet Not? Yeah, right.

2011-02-07T19:29:00.000-07:00

I have found my interior design style. And I'm totally ok with being a poser. Enjoy!

Are we serious right now!?

1. I need that enormous tree [w/o hurricanes]

2. I need this simplicity

3. I need that light and airy feeling

You need:

1. the lettered cottage

2. velvet & linen

Amen.

Walking Home....

2011-02-07T19:20:00.000-07:00

This is what I looked like walking home Tuesday...and today.

[image from here]

When I got home...I felt like I looked like him!

[If you had curly hair, you'd understand the feeling!]

My snow boots made me feel like the Wicked Witch of the West.

Crumpled socks and all.

How was your Monday night?!

In other news, guess what?!?!? I just got this in the mail! Very excited!!!!

And lastly, have any of you seen this website?!

You may spend hours on there! But watch your checkbook! There are links on all of the items, telling you where to buy them, how much, etc! Oh my. I wish you could search under celebs, like Kate Middleton - b/c I still want that dang white coat! haha But I do love the one I picked... try it out! Maybe we'll link up by the end of the week!

Happy Week Off to me!

Quote of the Day

2011-02-07T16:10:00.002-07:00

“Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try” – Unknown

Swirly

2011-02-04T20:54:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel swirly?! Not like you're getting a swirly, and not because you're sick [which is why I felt swirly most of this week], but because you feel a little lost amongst everything that's going on, changing, moving?!

Well, that's how I feel today. Not in a depressing way - just a more retrospective, thoughtful, contemplative sort of way.

I feel a little lost, but not scared. I feel a little like a kite without a string, but without too much of a tempest to tear me apart. Just the right kind of breeze that's going to blow me to the next set of tree limbs, until I get rescued lol Yep. Just a little like a drifter.

But, I think its memories like this that help me have faith in this tiny journey - I'm not nervous, anxious, or scared. I'm totally ok. And I like it :)

Yep. Everything is ok.

Ryan James Hollingshaus

2011-01-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

Isn't he perfect?!

Newborns!

2011-01-27T22:48:00.001-07:00

When I went home to Delaware, my mom had started a new project! There's a program called Warm Up! America, and you knit or crochet hats for newborn babies in 3rd world countries. They're for premature babies, and you can drop them off at any JoAnn's. My mom showed me how to do it and helped me with this one! She did the tricky parts, like the beginning, and tied on the brown trim at the bottom.

This morning, I became an Aunt again!!!!! Little Ryan James Hollingshaus was born in Orem, and we are going to visit tomorrow! So.....

Look what I made!!!! All by myself! The pattern online is for tiny babies...Ryan was 9lbs 15 oz! So, I had to make an entirely new pattern...from my brain?!?!?!? Oh my. Hilarious. But, in the end, and after 3 movies....I made it.

[ps - I fast-forward through most scenes that I don't like....so, Moulin Rogue went by pretty fast (i only listen to the duets haha), Be Cool is hilaroius, and now I'm on the Princess Bride.]

I am pretty stinkin' excited! [and sore....haha] Praise is totally acceptable.

First Day Off

2011-01-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

Yep. Lots of things to do, and all I get around to is reading.

Well, I did work out for 45 mins and shower, so that's got to count for something!

Here's to the first day off!

Roses are Red.....

2011-01-23T22:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who didn't know, I took a trip home last week to surprise my dad for his 50th birthday! It was crazy fun, and since my family isn't big into pictures, I'll post the few I have later. But, just for fun, I wanted to post this one.

Isn't he darling? Ty bought me a dozen, long stem roses. Deep red. ooo. Sooo pretty! [which i then had to trim to fit in a tall, square vase, haha]

So, its pretty fun to be back home :)

The Best Thing I've Heard Recently....

2011-01-07T20:23:00.002-07:00

New Year's Day

2011-01-06T21:46:00.001-07:00

Temple Square Reflections

2011-01-05T21:38:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite "lights" at Christmas.

We're so lucky to live by Temple Square.

Salt Lake City Temple

Tyler loves his smile in this picture.

I like how I'm almost cross-eyed.

bahaha.

A reflection on the true meaning of Christmas.

So crowded that you couldn't hear the message audibly,

but the message always resonates within the heart.

Snapshot of Christmas

2011-01-05T21:30:00.000-07:00

The stocking that I made for Tyler:

Tyler doesn't have a stocking. Can you believe it!?

When living in CA, their roof got a leak and the attic flooded.

All of the Christmas things were ruined.

So, this year, in less than 3 weeks [one and a half of those working],

I made this stocking for Tyler.

I love it.

[don't mind him cheesing in half of the picture - I really wanted a close up of the stocking]

My parents bought us some really fun games for the holidays.

We returned the favor.

Listed:

The Great Dalmudi [to the 'rents]

5 Crowns [to the 'rents]

Sequence Dice [my fav!!!! from the 'rents]

Rummikub [ a classic, from the 'rents]

I'm pretty sure this is the only picture of us together on Christmas lol

It was a crazy day at work....

My mom made this darling apron for me!

I don't have one and she picked some beautiful fabric/colors for this!

See that puppy on the chair? Same one that Tyler proposed to me with. Leo, the puppy, is obviously included in all of our festivities. He even wore jingle-bell antlers, thanks to Tyler. Ty's going to be a great daddy haha

More to come...

New Years Resolution

2011-01-02T00:08:00.000-07:00

Ok.

I realize I've been gone for a while.

Well, I just want to share one New Year's resolution, because I'm going to need your help.

We've decided to NOT EAT OUT. Ever. Again. [ok, not really]

We will eat out for anniversaries, birthdays, etc. Only very special occasions.

So.

The dilemma.

On my weeks on, its really hard to cook, starting at 8:15 pm.

Lets talk about freezer meals, quick fixes, templates that help silly people like me make and keep a schedule, etc. Simplify Supper is a pretty good website, but I don't know that their meals are tested through.

Ready, get set, go!

I'll even have you over for dinner if you help me out.

Thanks!!!!

Books Under Your Belt

2010-12-19T17:07:00.000-07:00

So, I'm a book nerd, to no one's surprise. Have you read more than 6 of these books? The BBC believes most people will have read only 6 of the 100 books listed here.

Instructions: Bold those books you've read in their entirety, italicize the ones you started but didn't finish or read an excerpt.

How about you!?

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6 The Bible
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte
8 Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott
12 Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulk
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
19 The Time Traveler’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald
23 Bleak House – Charles Dickens
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25 The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy [a favorite!]
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens
33 Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis
34 Emma -Jane Austen
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen
36 The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe - CS Lewis
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini
38 Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden
40 Winnie the Pooh - A.A. Milne
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
44 A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48 The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan
51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel
52 Dune - Frank Herbert
53 Cold Comfort Farm - Stella Gibbons
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens [favorite]
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68 Bridget Jones’s Diary - Helen Fielding
69 Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75 Ulysses - James Joyce
76 The Inferno - Dante
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray
80 Possession - AS Byatt
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte’s Web - E.B. White
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo [another favorite!]

Holiday Cards, Take 2

2010-12-18T00:34:00.000-07:00

I finally ordered my "holiday cards," since they'll arrive in mailboxes a little after Christmas!

It was a hard choice, choosing between 3 of my favorite designs,

but Ty liked this one [below] the best.

So, here's a holiday card for all of you in Blogger land!

Happy Holidays!

[ps - If you want one, send me your address!]

Hopefully they'll run another promotion like this next year - that way I'll be able to make this a tradition. I really hope our generation sends greeting cards. I loved getting them growing up. Here's to hope for the future!

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

[pss: for some reason, I could not post the description under the card. The formatting hated me. So, my friends, that is why you get 2 holiday card posts. Kind of obnoxious, but we'll get through it somehow!]

Holiday Cards

2010-12-18T00:25:00.004-07:00

Joyous Noir Christmas Card

Shop Shutterfly for beautiful photo Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

!

My Morning Routine

2010-12-07T09:13:00.002-07:00

You Don't Know Everything, But You Know Enough

2010-12-02T09:54:00.000-07:00

Thankful for my Niche

2010-11-30T16:49:00.003-07:00

My thankful post is a little late - but I've thought about it a lot lately, so I hope you'll find a bit to be grateful for within it, too.

I'm grateful for not being perfect.

While this might not be something we're in love with all the time, recently I've come to appreciate this fact. You see, I've spent the last little while looking at others and their amazing talents. I started to feel a bit down. I can't do that, I'm not as good at this, etc. [enter tiny portion of self-doubt] That's a pretty normal cycle for all of us to go through, I think.

Then gratitude stepped in.

I have to say that I'm thankful for people who are willing to share their talents. Whether its through blogging, picturesque inspiration, or great recipes that they've contributed, I am thankful that I get to learn from them. I learn more about beautifying my home; more about whipping up edible morsels; more about capturing the joy in the moment.

I am very grateful for the gift of "self" that others contribute to a selfish world.

Through those gifts of "self," I believe that we come to know ourselves just that much better. I still stress about not decorating my home to Martha's standards, but I am grateful for affordable housing + sturdy cinder block walls + limited space. I'm grateful to be young and daring. I'm grateful to have a spouse that encourages my every attempt. I'm grateful for free furniture from in-laws, friends, and the dumpster [haha]. I'm grateful that my marriage started out as humbly as it has. I'm grateful for those who've picked us up along the way, and shown us their faith through kind acts. I'm grateful for being able to still learn - I'm so grateful that I don't have to have it "all-together" yet. And, I'm grateful for those who have gone before, I'm grateful for those who are traveling with us along this road, and I cannot wait to help those that find themselves where we once were.

Its going to be a good ride.

The Wish List....

2010-11-21T17:13:00.000-07:00

This bed...

The brown boots....

The BOSCH!

Kate's White coat. Seriously, I love it!

Buckeyes!

2010-11-20T12:30:00.002-07:00

[peanut-butter + chocolate = heaven]

It all started out with a trip to Smitten Kitchen + a BOSCH.

Pretty sure I love that site more than life.

She featured these delicious treats a while back!

This is how you feel after eating more than 2.

Gloriously swirly! They're my new fav for Christmas treats!

Seriously, so easy, so divine!

You should check out the link, and try them out!

I'm excited to give these away for Christmas presents to the neighbors this year!

What are you going to make for holiday treats!?

Thank you Smitten Kitchen.

You are the staple of my kitchen.

I cannot wait to buy the cookbook!

Thank you Jenny & Andrew Shadel!

I definitely BOSCHed it today!

Heaven, indeed!

ps: when I made these a 2nd time [aka the last half of the batch] I used milk chocolate instead of semi-sweet. I think I'll use semi-sweet from now on :)

Christmas Cards + Thank You Dilemma

2010-11-19T22:41:00.002-07:00

So, I have a dilemma that I'll start out with. Its a bit swirly, so read it and feel free to share advice!

When Tyler and I were married, we flew out that same night on a red-eye to Atlanta, and then after a 5 hr layover, flew to the Virgin Islands [haha, I know]. Then, after a week in paradise, we flew straight to DE, spent 2 days there, and flew straight back for my first day of classes.

When our family helped move the presents from the receptions to Ty's parents house, the cards were all mixed up. So, unless the gift came with a packing slip, we never knew who got us what.

I've been debating on what to do for a while. I really wanted to thank people not only for the gifts that they gave us [because we never would have made it through our first year of marriage without them], but especially for the gifts of "self" that they gave us throughout the years. Seriously, I never would have made it through my teenage years without the people in my home ward, my college experiences, and of course, my YW leaders. How do you thank someone for that type of gift without being cheesy?!

Well, I've composed a Thank-You card that expresses that. We really wanted to use a wedding photo, but b/c our original photos [sucked] weren't delivered until Nov of that year, and I cried over them, I couldn't send them out. Now that Jalene, bless her heart, has given us beautiful wedding photos, I have the poem over-layed on a photo, making a card. I'm thinking postcard, but I do want to thank the people whose cards remained attached [Mrs. Swift for the beautiful glassware, Wade Haus + family for my favorite dishes, and Aunt Sue for the beautiful china from BBB, etc]. So, maybe a 2 panel card for those who I know gave me specific gifts, and postcards for the general thank-yous?

Now, there's nothing that I can really do about it. I feel like its better to be generally grateful than never grateful at all. So, I'd like to send them out during the holiday season [bc its soon, and I've already waited a billion and a half years to do it].

What do you think???

And, while you're musing over that, here's a great promo! Shutterfly is giving away 50 free Christmas cards for bloggers! Click here for the info! I'm so excited, because I've never sent Christmas cards and these are actually dang cute.

Here are the options they sent me in an email:

· holiday cards to http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards

· Christmas photo cards to http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

· calendars to http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/desk-calendars

· personalized mugs to http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts/photo-mugs

· birthday cards to http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/birthday-cards-stationery

· Christmas invitations to http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-invitations

· Choose your favorite product from our Cards & Stationery pag

This is my favorite today:

I would upload all of my pictures, but its slightly odd in the sense that you can only upload JPEG, not JPG files, which means I'd have to "re-save" all of my pictures to JPEG. So, be aware of that when you try and upload pictures! [I cooked my chicken a little too long today b/c of this craziness...go figure.]

Check out the deal, and send your advice my way!!!!

Enjoy :]

Sounds of the Day

2010-11-18T11:39:00.001-07:00

She is my entire playlist today. Enjoy!

ps: I think my Thank-You cards are in the final stages of construction...from my WEDDING.

Sounding Off - HP

2010-11-12T22:38:00.001-07:00

[image from yahoo.com]

Ok.

For those of you who are all jazzed about the new HP movie I just have a poll I would like you to take, considering the following information:

-There is a nude scene. Not one, but TWO.

-Harry in one (that kid is so into that right now; broadway, etc.), and he and Hermionie in another.

-Those parts, obviously, aren't in the books.

Now I'm all angry. I loved the books and want them as unadulterated [yes, I meant it] as possible. Boo. Really? Do all good things have to be ruined with some 'new-modern-twist?' What if I liked it the way it was?

Someone will undoubtedly say, "Well, its not like its full-frontal nudity!" Regardless, its lame. I was mad in every single HP movie up to this point because they left out the best lines, funny situations, etc. I know you can't write every single line into the movie, but I have the books memorized, for Pete's sake. What else is a girl to do?!

So, I want to know. What will you do!?
[and, if you don't feel comfortable sounding off via comments, just vote! --- see r-hand side of blog]

ps: try and keep your comments PG. haha

Thanks Rach!

2010-11-08T14:31:00.002-07:00

Rachel posted her famously easy headband tutorial! And I stinkin' love it! I hate headbands b/c they kill my brain! Esp right behind my ears.

Now, pain-free, easy-peasy headbands are here!!!!!!!!

Click here to enjoy the masterpiece!

ps: i used interfacing b/c i didn't have any felt. works great :)