j.a.c

Mani-Pedi

2012-01-27T13:58:00.002-08:00

Taitum loves getting her nails done just like mommy. The toes last much longer than the fingers but both look really cute when they're done. Having a little girl to do this stuff with is the best!!! I hope she always wants to be like her mommy!

Train

2011-12-10T15:06:00.001-08:00

I took the kids to the train the other day, It was great weather and we didn't have to wait in line forever. Who could ask for more? I think we'll go again soon.

I didn't think the kids looked that similar until I saw this picture! Twiners!

4 Months

2011-12-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

Gideon is 4 months and growing so fast - literally. I took him for his 4 month check up and here are his stats

Weight: 17 lbs 4 oz 88%

Height: 26 1/2 Inches 95%

Head: 41 Inches 28%

Where did this kid come from? Taitum was about this size at 1 year....

He is such a smiley baby and talks all the time, it's too cute. He's starting to sit up better (still assisted) and can play by himself for a few minutes longer. He grabs anything he can get his hands on and likes to hold toys.

He still needs a lot of attention and likes to be in the middle of everything. He is still sleeping great, although not as great as he use to but I'm not complaining. He goes down anywhere between 8 and 10 and sleeping until about 5 and then is up again between 7 & 8.

He loves his baths and knows it's coming when I get him undressed and start the bath water. He starts flailing around and kicking as fast as he can. He will turn his head to see the TV or computer and will watch Taitum wherever she goes. He loves to have his head covered with a blanket. Sometimes if he's being quiet I will find him laying where I left him with his blanket pulled over his head with arms and legs kicking wildly. When I pull it down he has the biggst grin on his face....crazy kid!

He's such a sweet baby and we are so happy to have him in our home...even when he's screaming at the top of his lungs.

My Buddy

2011-11-20T17:41:00.000-08:00

“My Buddy, My Buddy, Wherever I go, she goes, My Buddy, My Buddy, I’ll teach her everything I know…”

If you grew up in the 80's this may sound familiar...well it has been our life for the past few months. Taitum loved her baby before Gideon but ever since I had him it's been so much more. She takes that baby everywhere and does everything with her. If I'm feeding the baby, she's feeding the baby. If I'm putting Gideon down for a nap, her baby is going down for a nap. It's cute to see her so attached and interested in something.

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T16:21:00.000-07:00

Halloween was fun this year, Taitum actually knew a little of what was going on. Jared had school but that didn't stop us from enjoying a Trunk-or-Treat at the ward and then Trick-or-Treating with friends. I didn't get two creative with costumes this year but though they both looked cute anyway...I might be partial though.

Taitum @ 26 months

2011-10-28T08:51:00.000-07:00

A few things about Taitum at 26 months

went from saying "De De" to "More Please"

Learned how to open doors and stand on a stool to turn on lights

got her first 2 year molar

Things she says:

"It's hard to do"

"no mama, don't get into my stuff"

"I'll be right back" and puts her finger up

Likes to pretend she is going to the store. She will get her shoes on and grab her purse and head for the door.

Repeats everything we say, tells the boys (Garrett and his friends or Edmond and Charlie) and her nursery class what to do. "follow me"

Movies/shows she loves:

loves worldworld, monsters inc

3 Months

2011-10-26T14:26:00.000-07:00

Gideon is perfect! He pretty much sleeps through the night (7:30-7:45) and takes 2-3 catnaps during the day. He's a happy baby when he isn't screaming at the top of his lungs. All I have to do is look at him and he smiles - it's the best. I went back to work when Taitum was 3 months so I missed a lot of her first year, I'm excited to see Gideon change in the next few months and feel blessed that I'm able to be home with him.

A few thing I want to remember about this age:
-When I get him out of bed, his breath slows and he cuddles right into me - so sweet
- He loves taking a bath and splashing around
-Instantly recognizes Taitum and my face and voice

-Loves to be around people, if I put him in the chair by himself he cries until I bring him closer to us
-smiles, laughs, talks all the time, loves it when I place him on my lap and talk to him - we could do this all day

- Loves Patty Cake, laughs every time

- Wears 6-9 month clothes. Around 15-16 lbs

- Scoots himself both on his tummy and back - I can't leave him anywhere. He has now fallen off the couch and changing table. He has even turned himself completely around in his bed

- Taitum and I call him slobber boy- that boy can drool

Fall 2011

2011-10-24T15:29:00.000-07:00

We have made it a tradition to head up to Apple Hill every fall. It was a down pour when we got there but we still had a great time. The kids got to play in the rain and we didnt have to wait in lines. Who could ask for more?

Another tradition we are going to start is going to Bishop's Pumpkin Patch. It is such a fun place for the kids to ride the train, the hayride and see some stinky animals.

Perfect Morning

2011-10-24T13:55:00.000-07:00

We went for a morning walk to the park today. The weather was perfect and so were Taitum and Gideon. It was perfect until I told Taitum it was time to go, then we got some screaming and I had to force her into the stroller. However, I would expect nothing less from my perfectly stubborn little girl!

2 Months

2011-10-14T09:28:00.000-07:00

Gideon went for his 2 month check up a couple weeks ago. Here are his stats:

Weight: 13 lbs, 6 oz 86%

Height: 24 inches 86%

Head: 38 cm 12%

Such a sweet boy. Smiles all the time

Sleeps through the night. Has the loudest cry ever.

Loves Taitum and being held.

Baby Blessing & Taitum's 2nd Birthday

2011-08-28T09:27:00.000-07:00

My little cook

2011-08-24T12:50:00.000-07:00

Taitum is into play kitchens and tea sets lately. We sit up in her room almost every day and she makes me something to eat. It's fun to see her pretend.

Jenn took a few pictures of her the other day

Gideon

2011-08-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

Baby Gideon was born July 26 @ 8:47 am. 7 lbs, 20 inch

He is such a sweet little boy. He sleeps a lot and usually only wakes up to feed. Taitum has been so great with him. She wants him to come everywhere with us and lets me know when he's crying "baby crying". Thanks, I almost couldn't hear him wailing at me to feed him every hour. She doesn't want to hold him but is really great about giving him kisses all the time.

We took him to the dr 8 days after birth and he weighed in at 7 lbs, 8 oz and 21 1/2 inch long - he is growing like a weed!

I couldn't be happier. I am so glad he's here healthy, happy and out of my belly!

Happy 4th of July

2011-07-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

We had a great 4th of July. We spent the day swimming and hanging out with friends and family. We attempted to watch fireworks over at Jenn & Jay's but Taitum was terrified, maybe next year!

Happy 4th Everyone!!!

Weekend Away

2011-07-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

Jared and I enjoyed a weekend away, just the two of us! Jared found a bike race in Santa Rosa so we made plans and headed down for a much needed relaxing weekend.

I dropped Taitum off at the in-laws and then we headed down there on Friday after work. We enjoyed a quiet dinner at a local Italian restaurant and a quiet evening in. Saturday morning Jared did a Metric Century Bike Ride while I lounged around the room and went shopping in the local antique stores. We laid by the pool and had a quiet meal together - it was a perfect day!

On our way home Sunday, we stopped by the American Culinary Institute of America for lunch. The building was beautiful and our lunch was amazing.

Here is a front picture of me 9 months pregnant - luckily the shirt hides how large I've gotten!

While we missed our little girl, it was so nice to just enjoy a weekend without any responsibility before having another little one to always look after. I told Jared that vacationing every once in a while childless is a definite must!

Memorial Weekend

2011-06-01T17:33:00.000-07:00

We tagged along with some friends to Santa Cruz this past weekend to do some camping. Jared and I are not big into camping, actually this is only the second time we have gone in the 6 years we've been married. The weather was cold and rainy most days but we did get one good beach day in. Here are a few of the highlights...we had such a great time, we might just make this a family tradition!

We loaded up the car and Taitum was ready to go.

We ventured out the Boardwalk in Santa Cruz, it poured rain but we still had a great time people watching!

The rest of the time we hung out at the campsite and enjoyed the beach!

Taitum's first powdered donut - of course she loved it!

Beach day!!!!

Taitum was so great, she would fall asleep anywhere - even in the restaurant. It made camping so much more enjoyable.

Heading home! Family picture by the Camping Sign

OPEN HOUSE

2011-04-06T21:00:00.000-07:00

House of Thread is having an open house Wednesday, April 20th from 7pm-9pm. Check out the flier below or http://www.houseofthread.blogspot.com/ for more details.

Everyone is welcome, please let me know if you should have any questions.

17 months

2011-01-31T10:36:00.001-08:00

So Taitum is 17 months...where did the time go. I love her so much, I can hardly believe she's mine! She's a crazy little girl, she loves to dance and run around the house. She is in the process of getting 4 molars which is a nightmare but we will get through it. She is so sweet and always gives her daddy big hugs and kisses when he comes home from work - she loves him so much!

Here are just a few pictures of her and a list of the words she can currenly say

Please
orange
more
mama, mommy
daddy
yes
no
dolly
doggie
banana
eyes
uh ho
ouch
shoe
hi
this
baby
papa
froggie
thank you

She can also make the sounds for the following animals

elephant
dog
cow
growl
chicken

House of Thread

2011-01-27T14:48:00.000-08:00

My friend Tiffany and I started a clothing boutique called House of Thread. Check it out at http://www.houseofthread.blogspot.com/ and let me know what you think. If you are interested in purchasing anything leave a comment or email me.

Thanks!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-16T13:45:00.003-08:00

Taitum was a clown for Halloween - not one of those scary clowns that everyone is afraid of...just a sweet little doll faced clown.

Apple Hill 2010

2010-10-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

One of our new family traditions (as long as we live in Sacramento) is to venture up to Apple Hill every fall to get their amazing apple donuts and home grown apples. The last time we went it was rainy and cold, this year it was a blistering 90 degrees!!! Regardless of the warm weather we had a great time.

Here is a picture of Taitum getting her first taste of carmel and ice cream. Yummy...she was a big fan, if you can't tell from the last picture -so happy!!!!

Happy Birthday Taitum

2010-08-28T22:17:00.000-07:00

Taitum turned 1 on Saturday. Who knew I would have a one year old, weird. Here are some highlights from the big day.

I'm not big into having a huge party for a one year old, or so I thought. When it came time I couldn't just let the day pass without a celebration. We had an end of summer BBQ including birthday celebrations for Taitum, myself and my niece Jennifer (Taitum's is the 28th and Jennifer and I share the 29th).

We had lots of family and friends over which made the day fun! We had hamburgers, hotdogs, a pinata, volleyball, cake and more.

Being the crazy mom that I am, I made a very low sugar cake for Taitum and spoon feed it to her. I know, way to let her get crazy on her birthday. She only took about 3 bites and was done, I wasn't about to have her get all messy just for three bites! ;)

The boys and their daughters.

(Jayson & Mara with Jared & Taitum)

The birthday girls

I also took her for her 12 month check up and here are her stats:

weight: 19 lbs (20%)

Height: 25 1/2 inches (55%)

Head 17 1/4 inches (25%)

She walks with the help of us or while holding on to something
Says "Yes", "Hi", "Mama", "Edmond" (or a version of it), "Dada", "Banana" (kindof)
Barks in a high voice when she sees a dog
Loves to be where Edmond is
Already throws tantrums
Cuddles while she drinks her bottles
Loves swinging
Dances whenever she hears music

I never imagined having a child would be this much fun or this rewarding. I love spending time with her and feel blessed every day that she's in my life. Jared and I are lucky parents to have such a sweet, loving daughter.

5 Years

2010-08-16T21:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Jared, it's been an amazing 5 years. After all the highs and lows, buying & selling our first house, moving to Las Vegas and then to California, countless trips, putting you through school twice, having a child and so much more I love you more and more with each passing day. I couldn't have picked a better person to go through life with. I love you!

The Three Stooges

2010-07-16T09:26:00.000-07:00

Not only do these three live and play together, they are starting to look alike too. Jessica and I found an awesome deal on PJs at H&M the other day so of course all the kids had to have them. Taitum loves playing with her two cousins - she smiles and laughs whenever she sees them!

Things that move

2010-06-25T21:27:00.000-07:00

Taitum has started enjoying things that move.

9 months

2010-06-09T21:24:00.000-07:00

Our daughter in 0-60

9 month update

Weight 16 lbs, 9 oz - 10%
Height 28" - 40%
Head 17" - 25%

This girl is crazy! Here's what she's up to now

Crawling all over the place (started May 26)
Pulls herself up to a kneeling position, almost to a standing position (started June 8)
Eats bran muffins, hummus and still likes the tofu
Talks all the time, actually puckers her lips while talking - so funny!
Flexes her pecs and grunts over and over again - also super funny!
Throws her toys and then gets mad at them
Says Mama and Dada
Smiles when she see's us and cries when we leave
Still hates to lay down in the bathtub
Has been sleeping through the night

Bath Time

2010-05-28T12:51:00.000-07:00

Taitum finally graduated to the big bath. She enjoys splashing around but hates it when we lay her down to wash her hair. Her favorite bath toys are Star Fish, Yellow Duck and Sting Ray.

We appreciated her covering herself up for the pictures - what a modest little girl!

Isette

2010-05-26T20:55:00.001-07:00

We have been truly blessed to have Isette in our lives. She is so sweet and takes such good care of Taitum. I wasn't set on her from the beginning but when all other options fell through we decided to give her a try. Every time I drop Taitum off and I see how excited she gets to see Isette I know we made the right decision. Isette cares for her like a grandma and treats her like she was her own. Thank you Isette for all you do for us.

As a side note, I found Taitum sleeping like this in the car on the way to work. she is such a little lady even when she sleeps.

---also please note, the water bottle is T's toy, not our trash! :)

8 1/2 months

2010-05-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

Taitum is 8 1/2 months! She is so stink'n cute and so much fun!!! Here's a few things she's up to these days:

Waives hello and good bye
Eats all sorts of things from Cheerios, Avocados, Cauliflower, Butternut Squash, Pancakes & Tofu
Almost crawling
Watches everyone and everything, especially other kids - a very intent/observant little girl
Still loves to sleep in the car to and from work
Sleeps from 8 pm - 6/7 am with getting up only once in the night
Has two bottom teeth
Understands the word "no" to an extent
Kind of says Mama, Dada
Loves to cuddle at story time - favorite books; Boynton's "The Going to Bed Book" & "But not the Hippopotamus", "Duck & Goose".

(Man, Jared and I need some sun, I look frightening!!!)

(Pictures courtesy of Jennifer Galmeister :))

Monterey/Carmel

2010-04-30T12:23:00.000-07:00

One of the benefits of working at a hotel is that I get to stay at them. A couple weeks ago we ventured down to Monterey & Carmel. We started out at the Monterey Hyatt and were bumped due to high occupany to the Highland's Inn. Hey Hyatt, you can bump me any time you want! The rooms were renovated, the staff was professional and the views were awesome.

While in Monterey on Friday Jared went to Sea Otter and Taitum and I ventured down to the park. We enjoyed some puffs while we watched the geese play in the pond and the occasional dog walk by.

Our friends Doug & Rebecca joined us in Carmel Friday night and then the fun really began. We went to the State park to see Sea Lions, made smores at the hotel firepit, enjoyed the 17 mile drive and just soaked in the warm sun!

Watch out Carmel, I fell in love with you and will try my hardest to make a visit back soon.

Bike Race Season

2010-04-19T16:40:00.000-07:00

Jared has entered into bike race season. If you didn't know, Jared LOVES biking and bikes and racing and bikes!!!

The first race was a couple weeks ago and unfortuantely he had a DNF - his stem came loose and he didn't have the tools to fix it. I'm sure he'll have better luck next time - at least he looked good while riding!!!

6 Month Photo Shoot

2010-04-13T21:00:00.001-07:00

Taitum got her 6 month photo's taken, they turned out so great! You can view some of them at www.alysonkayphotography.com/blog/?p=574

Easter Bunnies

2010-04-09T14:00:00.000-07:00

Here's what we woke up to on Easter Morning...Thanks Easter Bunny (you know who you are), so nice of you to come visit us!

Isette (Daycare Lady) gave Taitum a cute little bunny for Easter. I found her sleeping with it the other day. It's the first stuffed animal she has really had a liking to other than "Fran" the owl that hangs from her car seat.

Conference

2010-04-04T20:09:00.000-07:00

Have the soothing voices of General Conference ever done this to you?

Daddy Time

2010-04-02T14:49:00.000-07:00

The other day I took a couple shots of Jared playing and reading to Taitum. I think this might be one of the best things about having a child - watching my husband with her. Who could ask for more - my two favorite people enjoying eachother's company!

Tooth

2010-03-26T20:40:00.000-07:00

Taitum had been acting a little fussy and on March 26 we found out why. Wednesdsay March 24 I noticed a little something extra in her mouth and then on Friday March 26 it popped through! Her first tooth!

Pictures of this first tooth are still to come - it's hard to keep her little tongue away!

6 Months

2010-02-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

Taitum is 6 months already!!! I can't believe how the time is flying. She is getting so big and can do so many more things

Here are her stats

13 lbs, 11 oz (10%)

25 3/4 inches (40%)

She gabbers all the time
Sits up by herself
Loves her feet
Still doesn't love her stomach but will stay on it for a minute before giving up and falling asleep
Eats rice cereal, prunes, peaches, beans and avacodo
Rolls over a little more
Smiles and laughs
Definitely knows who her mom and dad are
Plays and loves her toys so much more

We are so blessed to have her in our lives and love every second we get with her.

Happy Half Birthday Sweetheart!

Adeline & Taitum

2010-02-24T21:19:00.000-08:00

Amber and I met up for Sushi while she was in town. It was so good to catch up and compare stories of our little girls who are only a day apart. They were great until the end when Taitum had a complete melt down.

Tahoe

2010-01-24T20:33:00.000-08:00

We went to Tahoe with B & Jessica, Edmond, Charlie, Tiffany, Allan and Abigale.

We hung out in our condo, Jared went snowboarding and then we took Taitum out snowshoeing...I think she liked it.

4 months

2010-01-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

Our little girl is 4 months old...where has the time gone.

12 lbs, 8 oz

24.5 inches

I'm amazed at how quickly she's growing. Here are a few things she can do:

Sit up in her Bumbo seat
Stand, balance on Jared's hand.
Roll over - well, just once
Play with her feet
Take her pacifier in and out of her mouth without help
Cry a lot louder
Wear 0-3 month clothes
Laugh and smile all the time
Sleep without being bundled up

Two days this week she ran out of milk at Isette's house so I broke down and we gave her some rice cereal. She was so excited for it, she tried eating the bowl. While the result right after was that she crashed...it only lasted 3 hours and then she was back awake at 11:30 pm. One of these days we'll get to sleep through the night again.

Christmas 2009

2010-01-05T20:12:00.001-08:00

We went to Utah for Christmas. It was so fun to spend time with family and friends. I took my camera however, forgot to take very many pictures but here are a couple I remembered.

She was such a good little traveler. She slept pretty much the whole way there. Note her awesome fohawk - I think that's what helped her travel so well. ;)

We spent Christmas Eve with Jared's family.

Here is taitum with her uncle Jimmy and the wonderful woman she is named after Grandma MarVell Searle.

The rest of the time we spent with my family

Three Generations, my mom,Taitum and I

We also got to relax a little. How cute are my two little sleeping angels

Day at Jenn's

2009-12-22T09:23:00.001-08:00

Taitum spent the day at her aunt Jenn's yesterday. We can tell she has fun when she's there because she'll be so cute and talkative the rest of the night.

She was so good at Jenn's that her 5 year old daughter Abbey came up with a plan "You can leave Taitum with us while you go to Utah and then pick her up when you come back!"

While that sounds tempting and the drive would be a little easier, I think I will take her with us...I would just miss this little girl way too much!!!

Santa

2009-12-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

Viva Las Vegas

2009-11-19T14:47:00.000-08:00

Jared had a conference in Las Vegas this week so Taitum and I tagged along. We spent time with friends and hanging out in the hotel watching TV. It was a great trip

Taitum did awesome on her first plane ride. She slept the whole way to and from Las Vegas - what a good little traveler.

Getting ready to board the plane.

Enjoying people watching at the New York, New York while Jared and I enjoyed a slice of pizza.

Hanging in our hotel room

The many faces of Taitum

2009-11-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

Taitum is 10 weeks old (2 1/2 months) and is getting to be so much fun! She is smiling and so interactive these days. here are a few pictures of her cute little face.

I love this little girl!!!

Blessing

2009-11-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

We had the opportunity to bless Taitum today. Some of my family were able to come up and join us for the blessing and Lee and Annette were able to join us over the web cam.

Jared did such a great job and I love that he has the power to give our little girl such a sweet blessing for the life ahead of her.

I am a truly blessed individual

The All"Road" trip

2009-10-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

This Journey begins with a boy and a dream, this dream is to own many toys, especially German crafted automobiles. The Infiniti was getting up there in age and mileage, so I had Amber drink the coolaid until she agreed to get a new car. But what car would we get that would be the One car, the do it all multipurpose machine of machines, that is both sexy and useful. There could only be One and this my friends it is, a 2004 Audi Allroad 2.7T. This is a work of art and am very dissapointed that they stopped bringing them to the US in 2005.

So, we found the perfect one for the perfect price, the only problem, it was in Ohio. I convinced the guy to meet us in the worst place I have ever been to, Omaha Nebraska. Those who know me know the personal hatred I had towards the wretched place but for this car I would go anywhere. I suckered my buddy Justin into a 3 day Journey that would include the flight there and the ride back. He decided to take it upon himself to be a great navigator and found a bunch of stupid places for us to stop and enjoy some of the unglyest parts of the good ol US of A. First stop, right here in Omaha.

Ladies and Gentlemen, I present to you, the Worlds Largest coffee pot. It actually is just a water tower Sapp Bros. uses as their emblem. First stop. Bust, my amazing navigator failed to get us off the freeway in time to stop to see it up close.

Our trip started off as a failure, the coffee pot we missed, and it sucked, and this chicken was supposed to be some huge monument at Lee's Chicken in Lincoln Nebraska. We had to at least stop and check out the local scene. It was ok ck but the onion rings were awesome.

The extremely large Virgin Mary Statue in the middle of nowhere in Nebraska/Wyoming, not sure where now that I think about it. It was next to some trailer park on the side of the freeway.

We found that Sinclair is a very popular gas station in the Mid West, there is even a town called Sinclair with, you guessed it, an oil refinery, but no gas stations.(?)

I think this pyramid was build for some brothers that ended up going to jail for fraud, but anyhow, RANDOM!!!!
Peep the clearance on level 4, we had to put in 4 as soon as we hit dirt to check it out, 8+ inches!!!!!!

You can barely see the Audi in this pic. The Lincoln head in Wyoming, a monument for the old freeway before I-80.

Welcom to Little America Wyoming, home of the Worlds Largest gas station and the stuffed Pengiun. It has a hotel and truck stop attached. It is a great place to fill up and get some candy for the road, next stop, Taco Time. Hmmmm.

We crashed in Utah so we had to stop by Park City to ride the slides and the new coaster. The coaster is sweet and I recommend it to anyone. It is really fast and the ghetto seatbelt adds a bit of danger for you. Justin videoed the whole thing and just about lost the camera in one of the fast turns. This was the first sign of pretty landscape since we left Cali and then back to the desert tomorrow.
(These pics are on the slides)

The random tree in the Salt Flats.

Hello from Wendover Nevada and home of the Worlds Largest mechanical cowboy.

A shout out to Amber from Nevada. We always check out the sweet rigs and this Peterbilt was nice; two tone with full fenders through the back and straight stacks. (taken from my rear view mirror)

Prepare yourself to meet the Worlds Largest stuffed Polar bear, and yes you guessed it, in Elko Nevada.

I miss the Price is Right.

Ever seen this place on the side of I-80? Creapy! We had to explore and it was not fun, the whole place is just scary. This guy started building this place and would pour cement over the structures to make it sturdy. It is pretty interesting and is now an Indian Monument.
For more info visit www.thundermoutainmonument.com.

This is the old man with his grandkinds

There it is in its natural element...

Me in my element, road trips are not fun with me.

And we are Home! Pic of the new ride with baby and baby' mama.

Angel? I think not!!!

2009-10-27T19:40:00.000-07:00

I put Taitum in her little seat while I showered this morning. She was being so good, not making a peep. "What a little angel" I thought, until I got out and saw this...

Photo Shoot

2009-10-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

I got the photos back from Taitum's photo shoots. I love them!!!

10 days old

5 weeks

Craft Time

2009-10-14T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm not really into crafting but I went to Enrichment the other night and learned how to make Tutus and barrettes for Taitum. I think they turned out pretty cute!

Snow Bunny

2009-10-14T14:26:00.000-07:00

The weather here in Sacramento has gotten a little cooler so I decided to get Taitum something to keep her warm. Here she is in her new cold weather outfit...it's a little big but definitely kept her warm on our walk the other morning.

Surprise Visit

2009-10-04T12:31:00.000-07:00

Taitum and I were just returning from an apt on Wednesday when I saw a car pull into our driveway. That looks like my parent's car...wait, it is! My parents decided to surprise us and come for a visit.

I had planned to get some pictures of Taitum on Friday so my mom went with me while Jared and B took my dad shooting. Of course they had to play with and clean their guns before putting them away.

We also ventured to oldtown Sacramento to check it out. It was nice to get out and see a little history.

Both of my parents have enjoyed holding and spoiling little Taitum, she's going to be sad when they are gone.

Thanks for coming to visit Grandma and Grandpa...we loved to have you come visit.

We love you!!!

Happy Birthday Jared!

2009-10-03T13:01:00.000-07:00

Jared turned 30! It's been a lonely month being 30, I'm glad he's joined me!

We spent the day with my parents, he went biking and then we all went out to dinner to celebrate.

Jared is my best friend and has been an amazing husband and father. I am so lucky to have him in my life, I look forward to spending the next 30+ years together.

Happy Birthday!!!!!

Falling from the Sky!!!

2009-09-30T21:24:00.000-07:00

So Amber told me last year that I could go sky diving for my birthday, but I never had anyone to go with. So, when my buddy Justin told me he and his girlfriend Mary were going, I invited myself to tag along.

13,000ft. time to open the door and guess who's the lucky first person out. My instructor just told me don't hold on and fall out when he said to. I was like what??? That is all I do? It happened so fast and all the sudden the wind is so loud and in your face that you really forget about all that and just hang out up there.

This one the camera girl was holding onto my hands and spinning us like mad. It was pretty cool to see the control they have up there.

He let me control us and do some spirals when we first opened the shoot, then he took the reigns and landed us by sliding in on our butts. Sucks man, grass stains, beats a broken leg or wrist though.

It was amazing, Amber's jealous and wants to go now so I will get a second chance.

The pics are embarrassing I know.

3 Weeks Old

2009-09-18T17:29:00.000-07:00

So I can't believe she is already 3 weeks old. We went to the Dr yesterday for her check up and here are her new stats:

Weight: 6 lbs 13 oz

Height: 19 3/4 inch

Head: 34 cm

A few of my favorite things about this sweet little girl:

How she resembles a little baby bird when she's hungry
The noises she makes when she's trying to wake up
The look on her face when she's content
Watching her sleep so peacefully
Her perfect little feet - and I don't even like feet! :)
Her soft skin
Her crazy hair
The way she lays on my chest and cuddles with me after she eats

A few things I could do without:

Poop in her bath water
Peeing on me multiple times while I am changing her - unlike a little boy, her pee runs everywhere and gets everything in it's path wet!
Sleepless nights
Crying for hours in the evening and I can't fix it
So much more laundry, so much more often

The past 3 weeks have been challenging and have offered very little sleep but I wouldn't take them back for anything!

Enjoying time in her swing

Getting ready for a walk

Sleeping - I guess that's obvious

Baby Taitum Has Arrived!!!!!

2009-08-29T19:59:00.000-07:00

So here is the picture of me days before Taitum arrived. Wow, didn't I get large.

I went to the Dr. on Wednesday and he said nothing was happening and that if she hadn't come by 41 weeks we would come up with a plan. Well...luckily no plan was necessary. Thursday night 8/27 I started having contractions around 8:30 pm and then around 10 pm I started watching the clock...every 3 minutes. 1:30 am on Friday morning 8/28 we headed to the hospital and were admitted by 3:30 am.

Everything was going well until I decided to get an epidural. I have low blood pressure but when I got the epidural it plummeted to 65/40 and the dr's and nurses freaked out. My chest started to close, I couldn't breath, I started to throw up and the baby became stressed. They stopped my contractions so that the baby could recover which slowed down my progress. Around 8 am they tried the epidural again, it only worked on half my body....so fun! I seriously don't know how women go all natural...doing it only half way almost put me over the edge!

They decided to give me some Pitocin which sped up my contractions and I moved along really quickly from there. At 12:00 pm I was ready to go and had her by 12:42 pm. While the labor was a little painful, Jared and I now have a new baby girl.

Taitum MarVell Cooley

August 28, 2009

Born at 12:42 pm

6 lbs, 5 oz

19 inch long

She is such a sweet little girl who sleeps during the day and cries at night. We love her and are so excited that she is here and healthy.

D-VIlle

2009-08-02T14:25:00.000-07:00

So we finally made it to Downieville. The town is very small with a population of about 150. It is the MTB mecca of NorCal mainly because of the infamous Downieville Classic that hosts an insane amount of racers and fans. The main trail is about 18 miles of downhill single track. We rode the main 3 legs from top to bottom. The intro is a shuttle to the top followed by some very nice single track, then some fast double track with small water run offs that act as rolling jumps. The main meat of the trail is insane amounts of single track that roll you through the woods and back to the little town. Not too many picks but here we are.

We will be back again...

Baby Showers

2009-07-27T16:36:00.000-07:00

So I have the best friends and family who have been nice enough to throw me showers. Here are a few pictures from my showers this month.

Utah shower

Cooley Family & Sacramento Shower

Hyatt Shower

First Bike Race

2009-06-10T16:23:00.000-07:00

Jared and his brother B participated in their first bike race on June 10. It was cool to see how many people where there participating as well as those watching their loved ones race. Jared didn't get in line fast enough and missed his group by about 30 seconds but ended up 3 in his group...not bad for his first race.

I was so proud of him and glad that those fancy bikes he has are being put to good use!

Hmmm...should be interesting!

2009-06-06T11:29:00.001-07:00

I decided to see what our little baby Taitum is going to look like. Here are a some pictures of Jared and I as babies

Me - 4 months and about 2 years

Jared - Just a few months

Now comes the fun part...she could like like any of the following three - or nothing at all like any of them!

27 1/2 Weeks Pregnant

2009-06-05T13:37:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple pictures from last night. 27 1/2 weeks pregnant and feeling large. 3 months to go!!!

Memorial Day Adventure

2009-05-26T21:05:00.001-07:00

Jared and I decided to try Kayaking this Memorial Day on Lake Natoma. We met our friends Whitney and Ben there, unfortunately Whitney forgot her ID so we got a picture together however, didn't get out on the lake together. Maybe next time. We had a great time and will definitely go again. I think we found a new summertime weekend hobby.

Cake Decorating 101

2009-05-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

My assistant's birthday was on Friday and she asked for an Ariel Cake. I had a picture to go off of, I like mine better.

Melissa was pleasantly surprised and happy to see the creation.

The picture from a website

My cake A big thanks to Jessica and Annette for helping me!!!

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

I'm not officially a mother but Jared still offered to make me dinner. I love French Toast however, hardly ever get it. Every time we go anywhere for breakfast I want to order it and Jared reminds me that it's not the healthiest breakfast choice on the menu. I always agree with him, however, still wish I were eating it as I have my omelet made with egg whites. Well on Mother's day he asked if I would like French Toast for dinner...of course I said YES!

My mother-in-law was out of town so my father-in-law, Jared and B made Jessica and I breakfast for dinner. YUMMY!

I love you Jared!

It's a Girl!!!!

2009-04-21T21:06:00.000-07:00

So, we couldn't wait until August to find out what our little baby was going to be (mostly me, but Jared didn't protest too hard when it came right down to it). We went to the Dr. yesterday and it turns out we're having a little baby girl! Taitum MarVell Cooley.

While Jared was hoping for a boy, I can tell he is just as excited about a girl by the cute comments he makes. It's truly amazing to see how this tiny, 13 oz baby can be so developed with a little profile and everything.

Everything looks normal and healthy and they put my delivery date somewhere between August 31 and September 4. 20 weeks down, 20 weeks to go.

Las Vegas-Surprise Baby Shower

2009-04-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

We went to Las Vegas last weekend and it was so good to be back. It was the first time since we moved and I realized just how much I miss it.

We stayed with our friends Mark and Robin at Villa Valenta. The accommodations were 5 diamond, 5 star.

We didn't really have any plans except to see friends and hangout. We stopped by my old office at the Four Seasons to say hi to everyone. Unfortunately our flight was an hour late and so a lot of people had already gone home, so I missed them! That night we went to Cafe Rio with some friends from Jared's work and Mike and Karla. Of course Mark had to show off for the kids!

Saturday we got up and were just hanging around the house waiting for my friends Kendra and Michelle to stop by. We were sitting outside on the balcony enjoying the sun when all of a sudden some girls from my work came running out yelling surprise. I was so confused and didn't have a clue what was going on! Little did I know that my dear friends were throwing Jared and I a surprise baby shower. How sweet are they?! When we came inside and went downstairs they had everything setup so cute! We played games and ate lots. There are more pictures, this is all I had on my camera.

(From left to right back to front. Michele, Krystle, Robin, Me, Kendra, Mary Grace, Kim, Kathy, Sheila)

Thanks girls, it was so fun to see everyone and my first surprise party! I owe you all big time!

San Francisco

2009-03-27T14:57:00.000-07:00

US Bank was part of a Wine and Cheese auction in San Francisco so we went to support. The auction wan't that fun but the rest of our weekend was very nice and relaxing. We got to San Francisco early on Saturday and spent the afternoon shopping prior to going to the event. That night we had room service and hung out in the room. The next day we went to Fisherman's Warf and walked the pier. Such nice weather and a great weekend away!

Oops, Jared got 3 lbs of taffy at Pier 39...

Us enjoying the sun right before a magic show

Golden Gate Bridge

Alcatraz

Bikers

2009-03-08T19:40:00.000-07:00

Jared and I have been into biking lately...well Jared is always into biking but I've started to do a little since it started to be nice weather. Here are some pictures of Jared going to Target one night to pick up posterboard for me.

The past two Saturdays Jared and I have gone to Lake Natoma for a 11.5 mile bike ride. It's really fun and very pretty. This past Saturday B, Jessica, Edmond and Lee joined us. It was warm and sunny and I think we'll do it again next week.

3 1/2 months pregnant

Jessica & Edmond taking a break

Amber got knocked up!

2009-02-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh!!!! Amber got knocked up! What is inside Amber's stomach. Is it a baby boy? or baby girl? We will find out on August 31st!!!! Stay tuned...

Five, 5

2009-01-19T17:58:00.000-08:00

So I took this blog from my sister Kathleen. Hers was titled Eight, 8 but I couldn't come up with 8 things in each section so mine is Five.

5 things I am obsessed with right now...
1. Trying to get the smell out of our new apt
2. Eating healthy
3. Being happy
4. Looking forward to a vacation in April
5. Saving money, planning for the future

5 words or phrases that I use often...
1. Nu Uh
2. Totally
3. Seriously
4. I'm totally not exaggerating!
5. Bummer

5 shows I love to watch...
1. Prison Break
2. 90210 (pathetic I know)
3. LA Ink
4. The Unit
5. The Office

5 things I did yesterday...
1. Went to church
2. Went for a Walk
3. Fell asleep watching a movie
4. Cried
5. Laughed

5 Favorite Places to Eat
1. Nora's Wine Bar (Las Vegas)
2. Sushi Fever (Las Vegas)
3. Pei Wei (Las Vegas)
4. Utopia
5. Mountain Mikes

5 Things I am Looking Forward to...
1. Eating Pizza & Salad for dinner
2. The weekend
3. Spring and warmer weather
4. Being super skinny one day
5. A good night's sleep

Christmas at the Cooley's

2008-12-31T10:43:00.000-08:00

Jared and I stayed put this year and spent Christmas with the Cooley's. All the kids were there which made everything so much more loud and crazy!

*************************

A few days before Christmas we made Gingerbread houses at Jen's house.

Jen getting the bases ready...

Jessica preparing the super glue sugar

Tanner & Conner drying the super glue sugar

Truman sawing away at his poor little roof

Here are some of our creations...

Truman's house

Jared & I's House

Tanner's or Chase's house, not sure

Also, since everyone was there we took a family picture. I think it turned out nice, even though I look a little cockeyed.

Happy 70th Birthday Dad!!!

2008-12-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

I was able to go home for my dad's 70th birthday on the 9th. We threw him a surpirse open house which hopefully he loved. A lot of family and friends show up, some we haven't seen in years, well I haven't. Thanks dad for the wonderful life you have given me, you are a great dad and an amazing example to me. I've learned so much and look forward to spending another 20+ years together!

I love you dad!

Crappy Day

2008-12-06T10:00:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was just an overall crappy day. Let me explain the series of events that lead to this statement;

Jared and I are currently looking to rent a house closer to work. We scheduled to houses to view yesterday one at 1:00 pm and one at 1:30 pm. I picked Jared up at 12:45 from his office and we were off. Suddenly we heard a loud noise and realized it was my front passenger tire. We pulled over to realize a flat tire. We called our Emergency Assistance company who said it would be an hour before they could come change the tire. While we waited we went into PF Changs to get some lunch and cancel our house appointments.

Once we have the donut on the car we drive over to Big O Tires to get it repaired. The worker said they just got a rush of people and that it would be an hour or so. Jared and I leave the car and walk the 10-20 minutes back to work. (Now as a side note, I am heading out to Utah today to see my family and surprise my dad for his 70th birthday). So I was scheduled to pick the car up at 4:00 and then get Jared so we could head to the Airport. At 3:15 Jared calls to tell me they can't fix the tire and that I am going to have to take a shuttle to the airport. So now I am in a rush. I walk the 10 minutes back to the car place to get my luggage and then head back the 10 minutes to catch a shuttle at the hotel. Just as I am walking up to the hotel I see the shuttle leave...WHAT, THEY WERE EARLY (side note again, I had asked the front drive at the hotel to hold the shuttle for me...this obviously didn't happen). So now I have to take a taxi. $50 later I am at the airport and ready to go.

I wait for my flight and about 15 minutes before we are suppose to board we are told the the fog is too thick and that my flight has been cancelled. So I go to call Jared and my phone dies...seriously?!!! I go buy a phone charger, $30, and call Jared to come pick me up. He is at home by this point (which he drove all the way home on our semi-flat donut) and now I have to find another flight out and wait the 45 minutes for him to pick me up.

At 7:30 pm we were back home having spent over $200, not seeing any of the houses we wanted to, missing dessert with my girlfriends in Salt Lake and glad the crappy day was over! I did get another flight out at 1:00 pm today and will still be able to see my family for the celebration! What a day!

New Thanksgiving Tradition

2008-12-06T09:46:00.000-08:00

Jared and I started a new Thanksgiving tradition this year. US Bank is a large sponsor for the "Run to feed the hungry" on Thanksgiving day. We got up at 5:45 am to head downtown and help with registration. Then at 9:00 am we ran the 5K race with the other 28,000 people. It was the first race Jared and I have done and it was pretty exciting to be there with all those people, supporting a good cause. The event rased $700,000!

Things I have done...and still have yet to do!

2008-11-26T18:51:00.000-08:00

The game is to leave in bold the things that you HAVE done. This really made me realize how many things there are in life to experience! Things I have done on this list...in bold:
1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to Disneyland
8. Climbed a mountain
9. Held a praying mantis
10. Sang a solo (In the car or shower only)
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Europe
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. Driven a Race Car
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill (So many days I would like to but haven't)
24. Built a snow fort
25. Been to a Rodeo
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon (No, but I'm running a 5K tomorrow...it's a start!)
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied (I hope this happens one day, doubt it though)
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelo’s David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa (one day)
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business (Someday!!!)
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job (ON A POST-IT NOTE NO LESS. STUPID SHELBY SHOES)
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London (The day we were there they weren't doing it!)
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating ( I watched the chicken get killed and then I ate it)
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone’s life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Lived with your in-laws

Apple Hill

2008-11-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

I've been dying to go to Apple Hill and we chose today to go...of course it was pouring rain!!! We went to a couple different farms, had some apple doughnuts, apple cider, hot chocolate, corn dog and steak sandwich...yummy!!!

It was pretty chilly and wet but a lot of fun!

Proposition 8 - Please Read!

2008-10-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

Failure to pass Proposition 8 will hurt children. If gay marriage remains legal, public schools will put it on equal footing with traditional marriage. Children will likely receive "age appropriate" information about sexual relations within heterosexual and homosexual marriages.Failure to pass Proposition 8 will hurt churches. The court's decision will inevitably lead to conflicts with religious liberty and free speech rights. Society will become more and more hostile to traditional beliefs about marriage and family. Over time, greater acceptance of nontraditional marriage will be demanded of all people. This could impact the ability of any religion to teach and practice its beliefs. Including adoption agencies.A YES vote will not hurt gays. In California , the law provides for marriage-related benefits to be given to civil unions and domestic partnerships. Proposition 8 does not diminish these benefits.For your information:On Friday, October 10th, 2008 a first-grade class took a field trip to witness a lesbian wedding in California . Click Here for the article from the San Francisco Chronicle.A father in Massachusetts was frustrated when his twin kindergartners were taught about homosexuality at school by the teachers. He insisted he be notified in the future before such things were discussed so he could pull his boys out of school.He was taken to jail. Click Here for the story.A Catholic adoption agency In the UK closed their doors because of the Government's new homosexual equality laws. The Equality Act forbids discrimination in the provision of goods and services on the basis of sexual orientation. The law was forced through Parliament last year despite past Prime Minister Tony Blair's recommendation that Catholic adoption agencies be exempted from the rules. Click Here for more info.Earlier this month judges in Connecticut overturned the state law (just as the judges in California did) to legalized gay marriage. This is not just an issue in California . We voted years ago to keep traditional marriage as the only marriage recognized in the state of California , 4 judges overturned our vote…and we need to fight back. That is what this Proposition is about. This is happening everywhere and the leaders of the church and others have warned that the outcome of California 's vote will affect the way the other states vote. So PLEASE…even if you don't live in California , put this on your blog or email this on. The internet knows no state line. You know contacts in California that I don't…and so do your friends. Please pass this on as it could eventually have an effect on everyone!November 4th: Election day. Polls close at 8:00pm. Vote by mail must be received by this time and can be hand delivered if necessary.

YOU'VE BEEN TAGGED...Here's what you do: If you feel this is an important issue I ask that you copy and paste this post...and post it on your blog. PLEASE keep it at the top of your blog through November 4th. which you can adjust each time you post under the 'edit post' option. The internet knows NO STATE LINE. You know contacts in California that I do not...as do your friends and their friends...and so on. Please do this. If not for your own children and the effect it could have on them some day...for mine! After you have posted this...email this to your contacts and TAG all your blogging buddies to do the same. THANK YOU!

Hair

2008-10-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

So...who thinks a perm is a good idea?

Belated Birthday

2008-09-21T19:29:00.001-07:00

My birthday was a few weeks ago and since we were moving on it, Jared decided to take me to Tahoe this past weekend to celebrate. We drove up yesterday and toured Tahoe City. It was fun to walk down main street and see all the shops. We stayed in a studio condo at Northstar..it was cute and within walking distance to all the shops and mountain lifts.

While I know Jared would've rather been biking with these guys... he was nice enough to leave the bike at home and just settle for a gondola ride & hiking with me.

Thank you Jared...you represented my "Golden Birthday" well!

New Life

2008-09-21T19:04:00.003-07:00

So I have been in Sacramento now for about 3 weeks, how time flies. I have enjoyed every minute, going to the gym, swimming, watching 'Rob & Big' reruns and more...

I went to my first farmer's market. It was great to see all the fresh produce. Since we are currently living with the in-laws I don't really cook (not that I really did before anyway) and only bought some raspberries. They were so yummy!

Annette (Mother In-Law) and I went to Palo Alto/San Francisco one day...unfortunately we ran into this traffic at 2:30 in the afternoon, doesn't anyone work around here?!

Last Saturday we thought we would go on a bike ride. It was a nice paved path away from the traffic. B & Jessica brought their little boy Edmond and as you can tell he didn't like the carrier they had him in. Jessica was brave to ride with him on her lap despite all the looks from others on the path.

My two weeks of unemployment were fun...unfortunately it's back to the grind and I'm working full time again. Good bye Summer and free time...I hope to see you again soon!

Good Bye Las Vegas, Hello Sacramento!

2008-09-03T09:14:00.000-07:00

So Jared and I finally made the move and are now living in Sacramento. For those of you who don't know where that is, it's in Northern California. While we loved living in Las Vegas and were blessed with amazing jobs and the best friends, we have taken the next step in our lives and moved to Sacramento.

So first, all the amazing things Las Vegas allowed us to do over the past 3 years;
1. We bought our first house
2.. We saw a lot of shows & Concerts including; La Reve, "O", Mystere, KA, Love, Mama Mia, Blue Man Group, Phantom of the Opera, Penn & Teller, Lifehouse, Poison, Steve Miller Band, The English Beat...and we didn't pay for most of them.
3. We took a helicopter flight on the strip, we drove a race car and rode with a professional driver, we drove go-carts, attend a Nascar truck race, went to the National Rodeo Finals, and went indoor skydiving.
4. We stayed at the following Four Seasons, Scottsdale (twice), Aviara-San Diego (twice), Las Vegas, London, and Budapest
5.We went on an all expense (well mostly) paid trip to Europe for 2 weeks

We loved Las Vegas and will miss the excitement it offered as well as the great shopping and incredible Restaurants.

Now a little bit about Sacramento.

1. Interesting Facts: Sacramento is the Capital of California. The primary agricultural products of Sacramento are rice, tomatoes, safflower, corn, and sugar beets.
2. There are 7 television stations and 29 radio stations and Sacramento is known to flower lovers as the “ Camellia Capitol of the World.”
3. Community Information: Over 95 parks, 78 playgrounds, 45 theaters, 15 nine and eighteen hole public golf courses, and five private golf courses, 33 art galleries and museums, two major symphonies, three ballet companies, scores of movie theaters and live stage plays year round, 11 hospitals with a total of 2554 licensed bed capacity.
4. It is also home to the University of California at Davis, California State University, Sacramento, four community colleges as a well as four private colleges and universities, including two law schools.
5. Our annual events include the Camellia Festival, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Water Festival, Dixieland Jazz Festival, California State fair, and many more.
6. Home to the Sacramento Kings.

Good Bye Four Seasons

2008-08-27T19:26:00.001-07:00

So as some of you know, Jared and I are moving to Sacramento. My friend Robin gave me a good bye party at her house. A few friends came by to say their good byes and enjoy the food. Sorry about all the pictures of me...but hey, it was my party!!!
Robin, Sheila, Me, Amanda, Mary Grace, Tina
Robert, Kendra & Mark
Michele & Thalia

Mary Grace trying to throw me into the pool!

Charlie's Angels Anyone?

Poison

2008-08-23T10:05:00.000-07:00

Jamie and I went to the Poison Concert at the Pearl in the Palms Hotel last night. I had no idea that they sang all the songs they sing. It was awesome to see all those who are still stuck in the 80s...so sad! The lady/man (not sure what it was) sitting next to me had it's pants up to it's chest and feathered hair that looked like it hadn't been cut since the 80s.

As you can tell from the pictures, Jamie is pregnant. Everyone was telling her how awesome it was that she was there and what a miracle she was creating! I think she was the most popular girl there, even more than the girls who flashed the camera.

Poison you have a new fan in me!!!

Welcome Home!

2008-07-20T21:54:00.000-07:00

As some of you might know Jared and I shipped a box of our nice clothes to Budapest in hopes that it would get there before we did and that we wouldn't have to carry these clothes around Europe for 2 weeks. Well, just our luck, it never got to the Four Seasons. Instead, it got stuck in customs for 2 months. On Tuesday, we arrived home from work to find a package on our door step...how excited were we?!

It was a little banged up but everything was there and intact. We are so happy to have it back!

4th of July in Brian Head

2008-07-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

Our friends Mandy & Stuart invited us to Brain Head for the 4th. We did a few little hikes, Jared and Stuart went biking, watched fireworks, and went to the city bon fire.

Memories

2008-07-13T20:36:00.001-07:00

Here are the directions:

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn't matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you. If you don't want to play on your blog, or if you don't have a blog, I'll leave my memory of you in my comments.

Europe Trip

2008-06-17T21:41:00.000-07:00

Jared and I just got back from a 2 week vacation to Europe. We packed the 2 weeks full of exciting things to see. Due to me being totally anal, I put together a day by day schedule and made Jared and I both carry around a copy just in case. Our schedule was much more elaborate then this but a synopsys is as follows;

Europe Trip (May 24- June 7)

London May 25-27
Prague May 27-30
Geneva May 30-June 1
Budapest June 1-6
Vienna June 3
London June 6-7

Below are some pictures of our trip. There were way too many of them to post them all and I know there are a lot of them on there as is so please be patient.

Budapest, Hungary

2008-06-17T21:40:00.001-07:00

We arrived in Budapest around 9:00 pm, June 1. We had a car waiting for us to take us to the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace. We arrived and went to a welcome reception before we settled in for the night. The hotel was awesome!

The best part of the hotel was all the amenities we got. Here are just a few.

Monday we took a tour of the city. We went and saw the Opera House, Hero's square, the Budapest Statue of Liberty and a church. That evening we went on a boat cruise for dinner. Jared and I shipped a box out prior to our arrival and unfortunately it did not arrive so we had to wear some casual clothes we had. Luckily we weren't too casual for the event.

DINNER CRUISE

Tuesday we decided to take a train trip to Vienna, Austria, We went with our friends Robin and Mark. It was a 3 hour train ride which flew by. Jared's alergies were bothering him so if you think you see him sleeping in some of the pictures...he is. We got there around 10:15 am and left around 6:40 that evening. Even though we didn't have much time, it was worth the trip.

On Wednesday, we took a Tour to Szentendre - we toured the historic city of Szentendre, erected by Serbian, Delmatian and Greek families who found refuge here from the Turks in the 14th and 17th centuries.

It was a nice quite city. At the end of our tour, the Four Seasons greated us with chilled lemon sented towels. Nice touch!

That evening we went to the awards ceremony. The Four Seasons rented out the Modern Museum of Art near Hero's square. They treated us like royalty by having men on horses, red carpet, and trumpets to great us. We had a nice reception and then dinner that was amazing. It made all the hard work the year prior worth it, to be there with all the other President's Club winners was awesome.

After the dinner they rented out a club next to the hotel. Everyone went there to drink and dance. We had the place until 5:00 am. Needless to say, Jared and I didn't make it that late.

The last day, we rented bikes and toured the city on our own. It was so much fun and a great way to see the city. Later that night Jared and I went and saw the opera Don Carlos. Even though we didn't understand a thing, it was beautiful. If any of you are considering taking a trip to Budapest I would highly recommend it!

London, England

2008-06-17T21:39:00.000-07:00

London was rainy most of the time so we may look a little haggered in these pictures. Other than the pound being twice as strong as the dollar, we had a great time. We were able to stay at the Four Seasons in London which was nice to be somewhere familiar to start off our trip.

Prague, Czech Republic

2008-06-17T21:38:00.000-07:00

Prague was amazing. There was so much history and beautiful buildings to see. Everything was close enough that we could walk to it, we probably walked 6-8 hours a day on average during our trip.

Geneva, Switzerland

2008-06-17T21:37:00.000-07:00

Geneva was nice. Again, it rained every morning but then it would clear up in the afternoon. If we were to go to Switzerland again, we would go see the alps, however, Lake Geneva was pretty and we enjoyed the relaxing days we had in Geneva.

MOAB

2008-05-23T20:20:00.000-07:00

Zane and I finally made it to Moab, it was freakin' amazing. It was a short trip but we got in Amasaback and Slick rock. Not sure on the spelling. The first day we rode Zane found out why I ride platforms, we are not good enough to ride clips on technical terrain. We had a really good time and it was chill be be with my good buddy from high school. The riding was fun and we got a chance to catch up since he is busy being a dad and all.

Here I am, it looks more fun in person I promise.

After the ride we set up camp in the worst campsite in town and headed out for the best all you can eat pizza bar I have ever been to. I am pretty sure I over ate, but it was worth it.

Day two was Slick Rock, we were the first riders on the trail, it was great. I don't even think we saw anyone until we were on our way back to the main trailhead. Zane was a stud and loved every minute of it.

Kidney Stone

2008-05-13T22:11:00.000-07:00

I got my first Kidney Stone last on Saturday. We were in Utah visiting my family when I awoke from a nice sleep with severe pain. After a ambulance ride to the emergency room and a lot of pain medication it was determined that I had a 1 mm kidney stone. The cause of this stone is still to be determined, but luckily I think I have passed it and am on my way to recovery.

If I could give any advice, make sure you drink A LOT of water, it was the most painful thing I have ever experienced and wouldn't want any of you to experience it! Sorry I couldn't go to dinner McKelle, just talk to Kara, you will be glad you didn't come over.

Unusual Suspects

2008-05-13T21:58:00.000-07:00

Jared and I and our friends Robin & Mark attended a performance by the "Unusual Suspects". The learning specialist at my work use to be in a improv group called the Unusual Suspects and they decided to have a reunion show at the CCSN's Black Box Theatre. It was a lot like "Who's Line is it Anyway".

Finley did a great job, we had a good time!

Who says the desert isn't pretty

2008-05-01T18:36:00.000-07:00

The last few rides I have been on have been amazing so I thought I would share a few pics. Sorry about the pics I am no photographer.

I accidentally ran over this snake on the trail, not cool. I thought it was a stick until I was right on and had to just roll over it. I freaked and stopped a little bit past it to see if it was till alive, still alive and all coiled up, no rattle so I pulled myself together and rode on.It is really green this spring, if that is green to people.

This bike still amazes me, it rides like a dream and pretty much has saved my life many times.
This is how we do it!! Thanks REI, love the rack.

Boxing 101

2008-04-19T21:22:00.000-07:00

I got tickets from a client to go see the HBO Light-Heavyweight Boxing Fight tonight. The fight was for the title of World Champion in Light-Heavyweight. It was between Bernard Hopkins & Joe Calzaghe. Neither Jared nor I have seen a boxing match live before and even though I was a little skeptical, we had a great time.

We were given great seats, 12 rows from the ring. For the price of $1,500 per ticket, they better have been good seats.

Not only was this an exciting match, there were also lots of stars to gawk at. JayZ, Sylvester Stallone, Nigel Lythgoe, Whitney Houston, Sugar Ray Leonard, Governer Schwarzenegger, Catherine Zeta Jones, Bruce Willis, Simon Cowell, Jim Belushi, Tom Jones and many more. I tried to get good pictures of them, you are going to have to play a little game to see if you can find them.

So, in the end Joe Calzagne won the fight, even though he got Hopkins below the belt 3 times.

New York

2008-04-12T15:58:00.001-07:00

I just returned from a Sales Trip to New York. It was my first time to the city and I must say I loved it! The cabs/drivers are completely crazy, there are so many people walking on the street there is hardly room for one more and everyone looks busy. We were there from Sunday to Wednesday and while we worked most of the time we got a little site seeing in.

We stayed at the Carlyle on 76th and Madison, a 5 star hotel in the city - It was so charming and a great place to stay for my first time. Although, when I go back to the city again I think I will see that I was definitely spoiled.

Here are some pictures of my room. So cute

I loved the original hardwood floors

Here is the view out my window. New York has no unused space, there were buildings everywhere I looked!

Everything was perfect, including my initials embroidered on my pillow case.

Due to the short amount of time we had in the city, Robin humored me and let us go on a double decker bus tour. We thought it would be the best way for me to see the most amount of area as well as a warmer option then walking in the 40 degree weather. This was not Robin's first time so I'm sure it was boring for her but she was a good sport about it.

Here is us on the bus after walking around the city - don't we look pretty?

We were barely able to see Ground Zero due to construction. Here are a few pictures that I was able to capture.

A display of tiles, elementary kids made for 9/11

Ground Zero

On the last day of our trip we had a client lunch at the Pleasantdale Chateau in New Jersey. This is an old estate that they turned into a event center - so cute!

All in all it was a great trip both for business and pleasure.

Grave Yard In the Middle of the City

Central Park

Time Square

Note the blue man carrying a suite case with a garbage can on top through Time Square - Crazy!

Edmond's Baby Blessing

2008-04-02T21:51:00.000-07:00

Jared and I went to Sacramento for B & Jessica's baby's blessing last weekend. It was a short trip but fun non-the-less.

We went to Old Sac Town with Jessica's family. There was a candy store that said that we could sample everything that had a blue tag on it. We ate so much candy I felt sick. Don't worry, we didn't just eat it there, we brought $16 worth back home with us ( which was only a small bag).

We had such a good time, it is always good to see family.

Parenting after all

2008-04-01T08:42:00.000-07:00

You'll never guess who's having a baby. Jared and I have been secretly trying to get pregnant for the past 6 months and it finally worked. We are so excited to share with you all that I am due the end of October.

We're thinking of the following names; If it's a boy -Jonas or if it's a girl -Samantha

Guys Trip

2008-03-05T21:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome to beautiful Winter Park Colorado. Jeff, Zane and I had a little weekend away to enjoy the Colorado sunshine and snow. We were lucky enough to stay at his parents place in Winter Park, it was much nicer than our freakin house and they only go there for the weekends. The snow was a bit old and hard but the sun was shining so I couldn't complain.

We had the opportunity to do some backcountry with a free lift up. I was not so much a backcountry as a snow cat instead of a skil lift, all the same it was really nice and no one on the same run at the same time.