Sam and Laura

My amazing sister

2011-01-30T17:07:00.003-07:00

Yes, I have been on a major blogging hiatus, and no, I am not suddenly going to start posting frequently again. But I am writing on behalf of my older sister, Rachel. She and her husband, Ryan, have been unsuccessfully trying to have kids for some time now and have been actively pursuing adoption as well. For years I harbored the misconception that if you use an adoption agency, the agency finds a baby for you. Through my sister's experience, I have discovered that is not usually the case. The agency they are using encourages prospective families to spread the word in all ways possible because it is usually through word of mouth that families get connected with birth mothers.

Let me tell you a little bit about my sister. She teaches high school, holds a very time consuming position in our church, and runs a non-profit in her "free time." She is wonder woman! But the thing I love most about Rachel is that she is not only impressive, she is also real. She is loving, kind, and generous, and she always has her eyes open for anyone that might be lonely or sad. I can attest that my sister is truly one of the most amazing people I have ever met and will be a phenomenal mother. Please keep her in mind if you happen to cross paths with anyone considering adoption.

Rachel is an English teacher and describes everything much better than I can. She frequently writes posts about her thoughts on adoption (as well as many other posts, often very amusing) on her blog. The address is fyionrachandry.blogspot.com. Their adoption profile is available here if you would like to read more about them and see pictures.

Thanks in advance for any help you can give us! Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Why I love teaching

2010-05-22T23:44:00.003-06:00

Some of you may know that I am working at a tiny, alternative, private high school/tutoring center right now. Let me tell you what that really means--a place for extremely wealthy, extremely messed up kids.

While most of my kids are actually pretty good, I have one that makes me want to pull my hair out. Literally. He is a suicidal, manic depressive eighth grader with straight F's who has already been suspended three times this year for fighting and coming to school high. Oh, he also hates his parents vehemently, lies continually, and cheats flagrantly. He's a real peach.

So you might be thinking that this post should be entitled "Why I hate teaching" . . . Not so. Working with him every afternoon has given me the rare opportunity to get a glimpse of the sweet, funny, real Quinn underneath all of the "issues." This is certainly the exception and not the norm, but I love when it happens.

He came in on Thursday determined to be a butt head. He hadn't done any of the make-up work he was supposed to, got kicked out of his dad's house, and was suspended for the third time. I braced myself for a torturous hour of forcing him to do history worksheets one problem at a time. Then, while perusing his lengthy list of missing assignments, I came upon an assignment to write a love sonnet. I couldn't resist. Even though he looked at me like, "You can't be serious," I persisted. By the end of the hour, we were cracking up and having a genuinely great time together.

Want to see the finished result? It may not have ten syllables per line or keep the same tense throughout, but I am proud of him. I think it is pretty darn clever!

My Love Sonnet

My true love has hair like silk,

I love to see it blow in the breeze.

It's black as night and white as milk,

I love to see you play among the trees.

I love how you have so much energy,

You can always make me smile.

The sight of you fills my soul with glee,

I can't stand not to see you for awhile.

You are a shining star.

Just to see you makes me weep.

Without you I would probably be stuck at some bar.

I love it when you chase sheep . . .

Of all the things that are precious to me,

I could never survive w/o* my border collie.

*Yes, his final draft said w/o :)

And that is why I love being a teacher! Days like that make all the crappy days worth it.

You gotta love sisters

2010-05-06T09:43:00.000-06:00

Rachel came and visited me a few weeks ago and just so happened to witness (actually be a critical part of) one of the more embarrassing moments in my life. And, in typical sister fashion, decided to write about it on her blog! Gosh . . . how nice of her.

Anyway, now that the embarrassment has past and I am able to laugh at myself, I thought I would share the joy with you. Anyone in need of a good laugh? Want one at my expense? Go ahead--I give you permission. Check out Rachie's post (she is a writer and tells it much better than I could). Enjoy!

A very overdue post

2010-04-11T16:43:00.003-06:00

Our last visitors (at the end of January) were Sary and Cal. But, when he heard they were coming, my dad couldn't resist coming too! It seems silly to post about something over two months late, but we had a blast, and I want the record for my sake. So bear with me.

We spent the week . . .

Playing at the beach

Eating delicious frozen yogurt

Can you believe that look on his face? "Um, why is no one feeding me that yogurt?"

Chowing down on Mexican food

Cal went nuts over the re-fried beans and rice. He couldn't get enough of them!

Exploring Seaport Village

Meow! That's my very own sexy sailor giving me a smooch.

Taking a harbor cruise

Sam was in heaven to be out on a boat . . . Callum was not!

Enjoying scenic Balboa Park

Gawking at exotic animals in the zoo

And snuggling!

Sarah will probably not be pleased with me for putting up this picture, but Cal looked so sweet that I couldn't resist!

This one's for you, Amy!

2010-04-03T00:21:00.001-06:00

I have been way out of the blogging loop for awhile. Amy keeps reminding me to post things for her "sew-and-tell," so I figured it was about time I got my act together. Here you go, Amy . . . a conglomerate of sewing projects from the past month or so.

First, my nephew turned one! I decided to make him a birthday onesie (but couldn't resist sending along a little propaganda while I was at it).

Want to see it in action? Pretty darn cute if you ask me!

I also made this apron for my cousin's birthday. She is a baker extraordinaire, so I thought she needed another sassy apron for her collection.

She is a good sport and let me take pictures, even though she hates them. Doesn't she look cute? Too bad her shirt was the same color as the tie . . . makes it kind of hard to see. But you get the gist.

A true chocoholic

2010-03-18T00:56:00.001-06:00

It's official. I am a chocoholic.

It has certainly never been a secret that I love sweets, but I am finally beginning to understand the depth of my addiction thanks to these bad boys. I LOVE Cadbury mini-eggs. More than anything else (even chocolate covered almonds), I can't stop eating them once I start. In fact, I am given bags by friends every year who see them and "think of me." That tells you how often I talk about them. :) So you can imagine my glee when my sister-in-law, Christine, sent me the link for those cookies last Saturday. I made them Sunday . . . they were gone by Tuesday.

They say the sign of an alcoholic is drinking before noon. What does it make me if literally one of the first things I think about when I wake up in the morning is where to find my first treat? I start WAYYYYY before noon, I assure you.

Two birthdays!

2010-03-09T23:52:00.000-07:00

I was going to title this post "Our birthday bashes," but neither of us really had much of a "bash" this year. Both of our birthdays were pretty laid back.

Sam turned 27!

Sam is lucky because he had a little cutie to celebrate with this year (and doesn't the little guy look just thrilled?)

My birthday was marked by a momentous occasion--Sam made a cake! All by himself. :) And I have to admit, it was DANG good. I am sucker for funfetti.

I live here

2010-03-08T12:33:00.000-07:00

I have these moments when I look around and think, "Oh my gosh. I live here! People pay tons of money to come visit for a week, and I get to live here!"

To celebrate Valentines this year, Sam blindfolded me and drove me out to Coronado. We went on a fun bike ride, walked along the beach, and had breakfast at an adorable French cafe. It was 75 degrees on February 15th! Isn't this gorgeous?

All of the houses on Coronado are adorable. I want to live there someday.

I will never get sick of living near the beach.

Overlooking downtown from the island (the lighting isn't great, but you get the idea)

That's right . . . I live here. :)

Secret Cupid

2010-02-14T08:00:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite family traditions growing up was "Secret Cupids." A week before Valentine's Day, my mom would set up a store in her bedroom, and we would each draw a family member's name out of a hat. Throughout the week, we would leave that person little surprises. Then we would all try to guess who our secret cupid was on Valentine's Day (and be just shocked at the results).

Although it is pretty obvious who Secret Cupid is now, Sam and I still have fun celebrating this way every year. This year though, a different S.C. sent me something in the mail and stole the show . . .

Talk about the cutest cupid of all!!! Sorry Sam, but how could you compete with that?!?

Ode to the World's Cutest Grandparents

2010-02-10T23:45:00.002-07:00

Our second set of visitors was my precious grandparents. I feel so lucky to have such loving and spunky grandparents that I get to see so often (but not often enough)!!!

We didn't take many pictures during their trip because it raised every single day they were here. Total stink! But I did want to include some of my favorite pictures of them from Christmas.

One night Granny and Grampy came over all dressed up, but Granny wanted to get comfy before we played games so she borrowed some of our clothes. Doesn't she look tough in Sam's Navy OCS t-shirt? They are pretty hard core. And I just can't get over her in my gray and pink sneakers. Pretty hip, eh?

And I think Gramps is pretty handsome in Rachel's girly apron.

We did, however, get one stellar video while they were in town. This is Josh (my cousin's hubby), Granny, and I doing the "shuffle off to Buffalo." Not bad for an 80 year old lady!!

Grand Central Station at the Webb's

2010-02-09T23:30:00.003-07:00

We have had a TON of visitors over the past month. Just listen to this . . . Nick, Amy, and their cute kids came first. Then my grandparents. Then more Nick and Amy. And then Sary, Cal, and my dad. Last Wednesday was the first day I have had totally to myself since December 22nd. Phew! It was quite the whirlwind month, and now I am sad that all my visitors are gone. (Oh yeah. And that's why I am pretending Christmas and New Years never happened as far as blogging goes. No time to blog this month and now I am just past caring.)

One trip at a time though. Amy first.

With Amy and the Snoogs, we . . .

Played on the Coronado beach

Hit up the local taco stand (YUM)

Went to visit Shamu

Rode some silly kid rides at Sea World (good thing Aunt Laura isn't prego and could go with them!)

And explored the tide pools at La Jolla cove.

All in January!!! Oh, I just love it here. Who else wants to come visit now?

My "reveal"

2010-01-15T06:04:00.001-07:00

I was supposed to reveal all of the Christmas gifts I made this year for my sister-in-law's Sew and Tell celebration last week, but, shocker, I didn't get around to it in time. Better one week late than never, right?

My brother-in-law, Logan, is an AMAZING chef (more on that to come . . . ) and a med student, so he always cooks in a shirt and tie. I decided he needed an apron for Christmas. So I hatched a plan to make him a "manly" apron (as manly as they come at least, which is not very), a "sassy" apron for Sarah, and a matching bib for Cal. But when I couldn't find any patterns girly enough for Sarah, I decided to create my own.

What do you think?

I think she likes it!

I also made this for myself, but it isn't nearly as exciting. :)

But it IS reversible. So fun!

What do you think?

2010-01-13T00:17:00.002-07:00

Should I take the beginning belly dance class I saw advertised through San Diego Community College Continuing Ed program? I couldn't believe how cheap it is (and yes, I realize that may be a reflection on the quality). It would be a lot more fun with a friend . . . anyone interested? :)

MEOW!!!

Meeting Baby!

2009-12-27T21:34:00.001-07:00

How could you resist visiting this little cutie? Isn't she precious?!? When I got a phone call from my sister-in-law, Christine, asking me to join her in San Francisco and then drive down to Monterey to visit my other sister-in-law, Cat, I couldn't say no. In fact, I invited myself to stay almost a week longer so that I could hang out with Cat and her kids. (Thanks, Cat for putting up with me!)

My favorite thing of all was just to hold Baby (she doesn't have a name yet) and chat with Cat.

Unfortunately, I got really sick on one of my first days and spent a large amount of the week doing this . . .

But, despite being sick, I still got to see Matt's school Christmas play

and witness Matt losing two teeth!

Thanks for an awesome week, Cat! Can I come again sometime?

What a Snoog!

2009-12-09T20:14:00.002-07:00

I am trying to get caught up on my blogging, so some of the upcoming posts may be pictures from quite awhile ago. That being said, they are still cute and I want a record of them, so forgive the tardiness.

At the beginning of November, Sary called me pretty stressed out. You know the best thing about being unemployed? I could do something about it! She needed a fairy godmother, but instead she got . . .

Cinderella!

We had fun just hanging out, making jewelry, cooking, going out with Auntie Muriel, and, OBVIOUSLY, cooing over Cal.

Buddies

Cal loves to press his forehead against your face. Those are "Cal kisses."

What a big boy!

I miss you guys! Can't wait to see you for Christmas.

Too good of a cause to pass up

2009-12-08T22:08:00.004-07:00

Many of you may have already heard about this cause from my sisters, but with it being gift buying season and a cause is near and dear to my heart, I thought I would put in my two cents as well.

Remember the orphanage in El Sal that Sam and I volunteered at last summer? Well the most recent pair of volunteers just so happened to include an amazing photographer who spent all summer trying to capture the spirits of the residents. See for yourself . . .

Aren't they adorable? Well, they created a calendar from the pictures and are selling them to raise money for the Hogar. They are only $15 and 100% of the proceeds go directly to the orphanage. So if you want to help these cuties and see them everyday as a reminder, you should contact me. Or you could pull a George Costanza and give your friends and family's gifts to someone else . . . Only a real someone in this instance. :)

I've joined the club

2009-11-29T13:32:00.003-07:00

You know those girls who have a weakness for men in uniform? That never used to be me. Then I married Sam.

MEOW! I love those dress uniforms.

Here we are all gussied up for Sam's graduation, but I have had to come to terms with the idea that he will always out-dress me at fancy functions from now on. I guess he can be my arm candy. :)

No more hotel

2009-11-27T16:27:00.006-07:00

When we pulled back into San Diego for good Wednesday after spending three months in the world's most claustrophobic hotel, I rejoiced. I gazed lovingly into my full sized fridge, spun with outstretched arms in our second bedroom, intentionally dirtied more dishes than necessary just to have the joy of sticking them in the dishwasher, and strongly fought the desire to lay face down on the dining room table from the sheer joy of not having to eat three meals a day on a loveseat anymore. Then reality hit . . .

Sam: "We should probably clean this place before putting everything away. It is pretty dusty."
Laura: "Clean?!? Oh crap."

As I grudgingly got out the 409, I found part of me wishing I was back in Port Hueneme, conveniently vacating my room at approximately 1:30 everyday for housekeeping. Sigh. The grass is always greener on the other side.

I can prove it . . . I'm the real deal.

2009-11-26T21:51:00.001-07:00

I know, I know--I haven't blogged in like a month. I go on kicks and just haven't felt like it. Maybe I will start being better and maybe I won't. But here is one for now . . .

That's right, people. That is my name on the official group fitness schedule!

I got my group exercise certification (actually months ago but I have been putting off posting), and I taught classes up in Port Hueneme for the past couple months. Woohoo! I have now taught Step, Pilates, Weight Training, Zumba, and even started a Hip Hop class on base. I LOVED IT! I have to say that my favorite class to teach was Zumba Gold, aka. Zumba for senior citizens. Hilarious. There are about six little old ladies (and I mean probably late 70s or early 80s) that would come to shake it on Friday mornings. Awesome. My goal: be the spunky when I am 80!

Now I just need to find a job down here in San Diego.

Have a "Hard Core" Halloween!

2009-10-31T14:46:00.013-06:00

A few weeks ago (don't ask me WHY they had it so early), the base had a big Halloween party. Everyone in Sam's training class was supposed to go in a united theme--the 80s. Really creative, I know. So instead of being the typical, side pony-tailed aerobics instructor type, Sam got his own idea.

(Side Note: Many of you probably don't know this, but Sam gets SUPER into dressing up when it is his own idea. If I try to force him into a costume of my own creation, he is not so interested. But when he comes up with the idea, he runs with it! )

Another thing you may or may not know about Sam, he is a HUGE music buff. So he decided we should go as Slash and Axl Rose from Guns 'n Roses. I was shocked by how many people actually recognized who we were. I guess that just proves that I am not really a child of the 80s.

For some reason, the picture of Axl that we used as inspiration won't link into my blog. Annoying! But Sam drew the tattoos exactly to match, and I really did look just like the original picture (minus the fact that he was topless--meow). We decided the cigarette was too nasty to include, even if it would make Sam more authentic. :)

HAPPY MOLE DAY!

2009-10-23T15:22:00.001-06:00

That's right, folks. It is October 23rd . . . Mole Day! Today is entirely devoted to celebrating that fabulous number, 6.022 x 10²³. For those of you non-chemistry lovers out there, a mole is a number similar to a dozen. You could say you have twelve donuts or a dozen donuts. Same with a mole. You could say you have a mole of atoms or 6.022 x 10²³ atoms. Lovely, isn't it?

So to celebrate mole day, I decided to do a little real-life chemistry. I cleaned all of the rust off my beautiful chrome handlebars and fenders with aluminum foil. Yep, no fancy products needed. Rust is just oxidized iron, so I wet some aluminum foil and scrub, scrub, scrub, looks like new. The aluminum acts as a reducing agent to get rid of rust.

Now you see it . . .

Now you don't!

Go for it! Do some chemistry today, even if it is just pouring vinegar on some baking soda and watching it bubble.

Sew and Tell Numero Dos

2009-10-23T15:11:00.000-06:00

I did it again! I successfully sewed something for Amy's "Sew and Tell." I followed the free Amy Butler Nigella Yoga Bag Pattern.

I LOVE this fabric and part of me wishes I had done something with it that I would carry more often than my yoga mat. Especially because this pattern was a pain and I made a lot of mistakes. Oh well. I daresay that I can find other stuff I like too.

I can definitely see how this is addicting. Sam asked if I am going to need a new bag for everything I own soon. The answer--yes.

Sew and Tell

2009-10-16T05:30:00.001-06:00

My sister-in-law hosts a "sew and tell" on her blog every Friday, and I finally have something to contribute. Hooray for sewing my first bag ever and only having to call Amy once. I figured out everything else on my own (admittedly using google a few times). I am pretty proud of myself.

The glorious product:

Outside

Inside

What do you think? I think I will modify the pattern a little next time, but this was a good place to start.

My losing streak

2009-10-15T11:50:00.005-06:00

That's right. I am a a natural loser. I enter all sorts of door raffles, giveaways, you name it, and I never win. Then there are those freaks out there (-cough- Amy) who win everything they ever enter. So not fair. I did win a door prize ONCE at the American Chemical Society teachers' luncheon--a chemistry demo book. The way I reacted, you would have thought I won a car. I was that thrilled.

So here I go again to try to win another giveaway on my cousin Amber's blog. If Amy is my sickening sister in law, then Amber is my sickening cousin. :) She has a Halloween goodie box up for grabs, and I want it. So here it goes . . .

My favorite Halloween photo--the KILLER Yzma pumpkin Sam and I (fine, mostly Sam) carved last year.

1. What is your all time best Halloween costume?
When I was in Kindergarten, my mom made me an awesome princess riding on a horse costume. I wish I had a photo with me. My legs were the horse's two front legs. So cute!

2. What is your favorite Halloween tradition?
Busting out the Halloween bows my mom made us and the decorations on October 1st.

3. What is your favorite Fall tradition?
Stuffing my face with pumpkin chocolate chip bread--over and over and over.

4. What is your favorite book?
I can't pick favorites!!! But probably the whole Harry Potter series, East of Eden by John Steinbeck, and To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee.

5. Name 3 great things that happened to you today.
I just woke up thirty minutes ago, so sleeping in until almost 10 should definitely count! But yesterday Sam and I went thrift store shopping for Halloween, and Sam surprised later last night me with a frosty. YUM!

6. What is your all time favorite dessert?
Hot brownies straight from the oven with ice cream on top.

7. Tell me something you look forward to doing in the next month.
Meeting my new niece!

8. Tell me something you are going to give someone else for Christmas.
The only presents I have picked out are for people who read this blog. So I am pleading the fifth. All I can say is that maybe I will use my new sewing skills . . .

Love at first sight DOES exist

2009-10-12T14:52:00.000-06:00

I had been searching on the internet for months to find the perfect bike. Then I saw it--and I knew. We were made for each other. A beautiful pink and silver beach cruiser with speeds. (Those of you who aren't in the market may not appreciate how unusual that is.) I LOVE IT! Aren't we a perfect match?

Costume Contest

2009-10-10T17:04:00.003-06:00

My sister, Sarah, is hosting a costume contest on her blog. The problem is, I don't have access to the family photo albums with photos of all my my mom's masterpieces. So this is the best I can do . . .I was Tiger Lily (a fabulous costume made by my mom for Sarah), and Sam was a cruise boat captain. (Please note the skin tight turtleneck from the ladies' department and fake cocktail--he is a good sport.)

Although this has to be my favorite costume Sam has ever worn. He hopped on one leg for HOURS!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

Playing catch up

2009-10-07T23:30:00.001-06:00

So I busted out my camera for the first time in awhile the other day and discovered some stuff I never posted. So here it goes . . .

The best thing about our current location--only 1.5 miles to the beach, baby!!! And it is a perfect bike ride. That's right, be jealous. It isn't as nice of a beach as the ones in San Diego, but it is a lot closer. The one annoying thing about this beach is that it is covered in seagulls (and I still haven't forgiven them for pooping on my head a few months ago). So I found this too irresistible to pass up.

Also, as I mentioned in the post about my dad, Sam had to spend a week out in the middle of nowhere doing "hard core" field exercises. Well they commissioned him about a million pounds of combat gear (seriously), and I couldn't get over how anyone could even walk in that much stuff, let alone dodge bullets. Sam got a kick out of me trying on his armored vest and gigantic helmet. Notice the crotch protector? I got a kick out of that.

I LOVE HALLOWEEN!

2009-10-03T18:35:00.000-06:00

Seriously. I know everyone's real favorite holiday is Christmas because of seeing family and all that jazz, but I think my very close second is Halloween. I start wearing the adorable Halloween bows my mom made us girls on October 1st. And you know what? It makes people smile for the whole month. I remember one year in high school that I wore one every day of the whole month. (I am not that extreme anymore.)

And do you think living in a hotel over the holidays was gonna cramp my style? Think again! I am not sure housekeeping knows what to think of my orange lights all over or my Halloween decals/towels/etc. :) (I couldn't take a good picture--sorry)

I also brought my mom's sewing machine back to California with me so that I can learn how to sew in all my free time. My first project--Halloween purse! I mean, just look at that fabric--how could I pass it up?

Guess who has the best dad ever?

2009-09-20T23:18:00.001-06:00

ME!

I called my dad last week to whine that Sam was going on field exercises for a week and leaving me in the stupid hotel by myself. (I wouldn't mind so much if we were in San Diego, but I don't know a soul at Port Hueneme yet, so I was feeling sorry for myself.) Next thing I know, I am flying to Denver for the whole week!!! Funnest. I get to hang out with my dad, my beyond adorable grandparents, and my two best friends. Doesn't get any better than that. Ok, fine . . . maybe if my sisters were here. But I am not complaining.

Thanks, Dad! I love you.

The Pros and Cons

2009-09-16T13:06:00.006-06:00

We moved up to Port Hueneme a few weeks ago so Sam could begin his training up here. We are staying at a hotel on base for three months and it has its pros and cons.

What I miss about San Diego. . . (in no particular order Amby)

1. Fiji Yogurt--my favorite of the new "fat free yogurt" craze (any Seinfeld fans out there? Yes. I think it is too good to be true as well). They don't have any up here. Dang.

2. Girl's night in my ward with divine treats and Project Runway. I had never seen it before but I got sucked in.

3. Amber and her boys!!!

4. Going to the beach every Saturday (especially when combined with above). See photo for proof of fun and cuteness.

I promise I had clothes on. Awkward.

5. My large, spacious apartment. Especially my full sized fridge, oven, and kitchen aid mixer. That is the worst thing about this place--the kitchen! We have a half sized oven that is a relic of the WWII era and a college dorm sized fridge. What the?!?

What I don't miss . . .

1. Cleaning the bathroom. Best thing about living in a hotel? MAID SERVICE. So nice. The only thing she doesn't clean is the kitchen.

2. Having to drive everywhere. I ride my bike to the gym, post office, grocery store, doctor, etc. Very pleasant. (More on my bike to come)

My feeble attempt at creativity

2009-09-11T13:17:00.011-06:00

I once went to Michael's during a big sale with my crafty sister, Sarah. As she coveted the scrapbooking supplies, beads, ribbon, and other craft goodies, I stood there wishing she would hurry up. She quickly informed me that I am boring because I have no hobbies. My retort? Nu-uh . . . I read. :) And it's true--I read A LOT. But then I find myself seeing all the women around me expressing their creativity through sewing or making cards or designing jewelry and I feel like a total lame-o.

Then I bought a hat with potential to be adorable but just a little lacking. So I decided to try being creative. You know what? It was fun! And somewhat addicting.

I know the flower is a tad too large, but it is on a pin so I can remove it and make something even better. Give me a break--it was my first attempt.

I decided to try it out on a headband too! Sam told me that it was cute but then hestitantly added, "Is everything in our house going to be covered in flowers soon?" Ha!

The buttons are actually an adorable hot pink, but the bad light made them look red. Grr.

So there it is. Admire it. Pat me on the back. Somehow my sickeningly creative sister-in-law made me promise to post this for her "sew-and-tell" with all her crafty blogger buddies--embarrassing!!!

Want to make one? Just follow this tutorial. Although, let's face it . . . I would rather you didn't since now i can make them as gifts. I'm just saying.

Fun in Monterey

2009-09-10T00:16:00.003-06:00

Sam and I took a side trip on our way to Port Hueneme to visit Sam's sister Cat and her family in Monterey. You all know how I despise car trips, but the extra 6 hours there and back weren't so bad with Sam driving the entire way and the breathtaking scenery along the coast! (He is such a good sport.)

Isn't this gorgeous? And this wasn't even the prettiest stop--it just happened to be one where we could pull off for pictures.

The weather was perfect and we spent the day exploring Fisherman's Wharf and Cannery Row (be jealous all you fellow Steinbeck lovers out there).

The marina at Fisherman's Wharf. Sam LOVES sailboats.

But the best part of all was just hanging out with Cat, Mark, and the kids. They have lived in Okinawa since Sam and I started dating, so I am just now really getting to know them well. And I love them!!! They are so fun, and I am glad we get to see them more often now. Honestly, how could I not love these cuties?

Ethan even sleeps in this hat :) And he puts his "treasures" (aka. trash) in the tiny pocket on it.

Matt is a sweetheart who is always willing to give big hugs.

Awesome speech!

2009-09-08T22:37:00.001-06:00

I never watch long videos on the internet, but this one was SO worth it! It is the speech President Obama gave today that was broadcast to all kids attending school in America. It was wonderful and inspiring, and, as a teacher, I wanted to give him a standing ovation.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/A-Message-of-Hope-and-Responsibility-for-Americas-Students/

More fun in the Buff

2009-08-21T13:17:00.005-06:00

Question: What could make an awesome trip even better?

Answer: A cute, little fattie and another sister!!!

Sary and Cal joined us a few days after I arrived. Don't ask me how this is even possible, but he has gotten cuter! Don't believe me?

Bet you do now! I know I am making a weird face but doesn't he look precious? We took this picture to highlight the cool shoes I bought Cal. What a stud.

The only downside is that they brought the heat with them. I swear it was a billion degrees in the Buff and Rachel's apartment isn't air conditioned--YIKES! Needless to say, that made us all a little grumpy and obsessed with finding things to cool us off and get out of that apartment.

We . . .
1. went on a scenic boat cruise on Lake Erie and the Erie Canal and then ate frozen custard and yaked on the pier.

Cal was fussy with us

but content with Ryan. That seemed to be the pattern for the whole trip.

It was there that I discovered that a sure way to make Cal laugh is to hold him up over your head.
Unfortunately, THIS is an all-too-frequent side effect.

2. got haircuts together and then spent the day shopping on a cute little street in Downtown. (Very Steel Magnolias-esque if you ask me.) But no pics to show for it. Boo.

3. had a picnic in the park. 4. Met some famous people--went out for BBQ with Deb and made breakfast with the Lemons. If you want the full scoop on these peeps, follow the links to Rachel's blog. (Highly amusing!)
And of course, we spent a lot of time just cooing over Cal and catching up. What a fun trip! I miss my sissies already!!!

While I was in the Buff . . .

2009-08-20T21:55:00.001-06:00

Last week I got to spend the whole week with my sissies in Buffalo. Funnest! (Rachie calls it "the buff" and it makes for some pretty funny/seemingly awkward statements--see above.) We don't get to see each other nearly as often as we would like, so we had to make the most of it. It was an action packed week!

The first few days I got Rach all to myself. So fun! I also adore Ryan, so it was fun to have him come along.

We . . .

1. Went to see a Shakespeare play in the park. It started to rain quite heavily halfway through, but it was still fun to sit there all wet and enjoy. We did wuss out and leave at intermission though. Can you blame us? I don't love Julius Caesar that much.

2. Went to Palmyra to see the many important church history sites there and go to the beautiful temple. It was very special to be in the place where Joseph Smith prayed and saw God and Jesus Christ.

3. Went to the drive-in movie and saw what was quite possibly the worst movie I have ever seen--G Force. Do NOT, I repeat, do NOT believe the hype. It is atrocious. But snooging in a truck bed filled with an air mattress and tons of blankets and pillows made up for it.

4. Went to Niagara Falls. It was SO COOL in person. I was amazed by all the electricity in the air and the mist it creates. By the time we left, it seriously looked like we had just stepped out of the shower.

5. Went to a quaint little town called Niagara on the Lake in Canada to do some window shopping and see an obscure musical. So charming! We also gorged ourselves on pastries from the local bakery. Yum!

As you can see, I am highly impressed by Ry's guns. Meow!

I really lucked out in the sister department. Don't you think? Love ya, sis! Thanks for a great trip.

Stayed tuned for Part 2 . . . Someone pretty darn cute joined us.

Why I hate the library

2009-08-07T15:30:00.003-06:00

I got into a habit in high school of wanting to buy all of my books rather than checking them out from the library. I love to write in my books (yes, even my novels) and make them my own. (Don't worry, Sam likes to inform me how dorky this is!) But I often end up buying books that aren't that good and then wishing I had spent that $15 on something I wanted to re-read. That in mind, I decided to start using the library again when we moved to San Diego. And now I remember why I made the conversion to begin with.

I am very involved in Salman Rushdie's Midnight's Children when I receive that annoying email--"You're materials are due in two days." What?!? I can't finish this 550 page, beast of a novel in two days! But then I see that wonderful link at the bottom of the email--"Click here to renew." Phew! I can renew it. Until I click the life-saving button only to discover that there is a hold placed on the book and I have no choice but to turn it in. So my options are these: pay a fine for each day it takes me to finish it or just go to the bookstore and buy it. Grr. Should have just bought it in the first place!

A stroll in the park

2009-08-05T13:01:00.001-06:00

We love living so close to Balboa Park! It is very pleasant to take evening strolls together after Sam gets done with work. The park has free concerts every week night and we have had fun going (even though it is usually clear from the quality of the band why it is free--case in point, a bunch of old men in Hawaiian shirts jammin' on guitars).

One cool area of the park is the cactus/desert plant garden. The plants look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book!
There is also a spectacular rose garden with HUGE roses in all different, crazy colors. (I am not at ALL a nature photographer, but you get the point of the unusual colors)

Nice shootin' Tex

2009-08-03T18:37:00.005-06:00

Prepare to be shocked:

I, Laura, the avid anti-gun person who swears there will never be a gun in my house, went shooting. Sam has a shooting qualification test next week, so he had to go to a shooting range once to practice (and I got dragged along). Now, since I know you are all wondering, I wasn't converted by any means, but it was kinda fun. I almost peed my pants when we first walked in because it was SO loud, but I got used to that. I never, however, really got over my trepidation of touching the gun.

Don't I look like a she-beast? (That is one of my friend's made up words to describe really manish women)

We call him the Terminator.

It may look like I am aiming . . .

but apparently not! I was not the best shot.

My new favorite treat

2009-07-28T18:48:00.003-06:00

If there is one thing all Westover women lack, it is self control. We are constantly GORGING ourselves on sweets--brownies, cookie dough you put in the freezer hoping that out of sight will be out of mind, fruit snacks for the nursery kids on Sunday . . . you get the picture. Well my latest junk food obsession is chocolate covered almonds. Something about the roasted nut dipped in rich milk chocolate is just SO addicting. I keep buying these big jars from Costco (even though every time I say it is the last one I will ever purchase) and then making Sam hide them from me so I don't eat all 3 lbs on my own.

Well yesterday I was feeling especially motivated in the fitness department, so after my usual cardio at the gym, I came home and put on a toning video. As I suffered through countless sit-ups, I saw something gleaming, calling to me from under the couch . . . a lid. I found them!!! So what do you think happened next? I ditched the sit-ups and dug in! Mmmm . . . delicious. I should do sit-ups more often!

Coldplay

2009-07-25T17:52:00.005-06:00

I definitely go on blogging kicks. I will have weeks where I want to post but have nothing to say, and then really fun weeks when I just don't feel like posting. Well, last week was one of those fun weeks and I am still trying to play catch up. So be prepared for a few post right in a row.

Last Thursday we went to the Coldplay concert! We both really love the band and were pumped to see affordable tickets. We had to sit on the lawn at the very back of the amphitheatre, but it was nice to have room to stretch out and relax. It was made even better when Coldplay came back to us! I have never seen a band do that before but it was a thrill for those of us at the back (especially the annoying high school groupies and drunk college students back there with us). We saw the technies preparing an area with guitars and stuff only about ten feet away from us, so we had to brace ourselves to be tramped. We were dead right. After being smashed, shoved, and having to punch some girl in the butt, we found a place to breathe. But here is our proof:

You can see sweat pouring down Chris Martin's face. Eww.

Just in case anyone reading this is a fan, here is a clip.

Take me out to the ballgame

2009-07-23T22:35:00.004-06:00

Sam was pumped to go to the Padres game last weekend and so was I. Why would I be interested in a long, boring baseball game, you might ask? One word . . . churros. I have a weakness for those delicious, cinnamon covered, deep fried goodies. They didn't have any at the concession stand near our seats, so I pouted through several innings until Sam went on a search to find me one. He took one bite, shook his head, and said, "I don't know why you think those are so good." Mmmmm . . . more for me.

Don't we look like fans? Sam found these "vintage" Padres shirts online.

I guess I should mention that my second favorite part of the game was the view. The park is RIGHT downtown and near the water--gorgeous!

Our "wild" andventures

2009-07-20T20:58:00.018-06:00

For my bridal shower in Provo, Sarah put together one of those videos where she asked Sam questions and recorded his answers in advance, and I had to guess his answers before they showed the video. Well, I am proud to say that I got them all right except the question, "What is Sam's dream job?" I said (very confidently too) to be captain of a ship. WRONG. His answer? A zookeeper. Um, excuse me? Apparently he is more of a closet zoo fanatic that he owns up to.

Well we now live one block from the San Diego Zoo, and Sam is in heaven. One of the first things he wanted to do was buy season passes. We have had fun going for just a few hours in the evenings when it is less hot and crowded. My favorites are the koalas--don't they look so snuggly? Cutest.Our memberships also get us into the Wild Animal Park, another zoo-ish place in Escondido where they try to make it more safari-esque. They mix some animals together in wide open areas and you ride around on a little train. I went a few weeks ago with Amber and her boys, and it was pretty neat. However, after being on a real safari, it is a bit of a let down. I mean seriously, that is a tough act to follow.

Somehow this . . .

Just can't compare to this!

Online Photo Class

2009-07-12T17:24:00.003-06:00

My sickening sister-in-law told me about a free online photography class, and I decided to give it a try. It teaches you how to manipulate your photos using photoshop tricks. Now these are just my first attempts and since I just have the free trial photoshop, I don't have many options for brushes, frames, and whatnot. But it is fun! Maybe I will get hooked . . .

Day 1: Adding a frame and word art

Day 2: Adding a brush (although I don't know why they don't call it a stamp--that's all it is)

Day 3: Creating a vintage look with sepia and hand tinting

BEFORE . . .

AFTER . . .

Funnest.

Some Like it Hot!

2009-06-28T15:56:00.004-06:00

Yesterday, instead of dealing with this:

Sam and I decided to do this!

We LOVE living so close to the beach. We spent the whole day on the beautiful Coronado beach (which is only ten minutes away--heaven).

The highlight for me was standing on the same beach where Some Like it Hot was filmed. I mean, come on, Marilyn Monroe once lounged on that same sand (and most of you know that I am somewhat of a closet fanatic). I just HAD to get a photo in front of the Hotel Del Coronado where the movie was filmed.

Aren't my white legs glamorous? :)

Friday Beach Day!

2009-06-27T19:12:00.003-06:00

One fun thing about moving to San Diego has been spending so much time with my cousin Amber, her husband Josh, and their ADORABLE kids. We hadn't seen each other in years, so it has been great to catch up. She is great about inviting me along to things, and I am all too happy to tag along!

Amber and the boys go to the beach every Friday with some friends, and I have tagged along twice. I LOVE being so close to the beach. Especially when I get to go with these cuties.

Um seriously . . . could little Dallin be any cuter? I don't know if you can tell, but he has sand ALL over his face (even in his hair).

Nathan and Jack--snoogs.

The proud mama.

Cookin' with the Oldies

2009-06-18T14:26:00.004-06:00

I seem to have a knack for hunting down activities that attract the older generation. I have been desperately trying to find something to fill my days here since I am jobless and friendless, and I happened to discover that community college classes in California are free! On a whim, I signed up for "time saving cooking" thinking that I need all the help I can get and maybe it would be a good place to make friends. So I spent four hours in class today, chopping veggies for the most delicious black bean and corn salsa in the world and listening to conversations about grandchildren and hip replacements. I was the youngest person in there by (at least) 40 years. I suppose the only people with four hours to spare on a Thursday morning are retirees. Oh well. It was actually still really fun and I am not opposed to hanging out with senior citizens. :)

Our new place!

2009-06-08T15:09:00.004-06:00

When we saw a listing for a two bedroom apartment less than a mile from Sam's work and right on Balboa Park that was within in our price range, we braced ourselves for something truly ghetto. Seeing this posted in the (surprisingly nice looking) lobby, it didn't do much to raise our hopes:
But we were shocked when we walked into the apartment and found this:

We lucked out big time!!! We happened to be in the right place at the right time when the landlord dropped the rent and we nabbed it.

Now the funny thing about this apartment is that the landlady is an extremely quirky old lady who wanted to do some renovations to make it more "luxury." This sounds all good and well, but she really should have gotten some decorating advice from someone a little more hip. For example, she took out the tub shower and put in a nice glass one. The problem? She thought it would be nice to choose the glass with white, leaping dolphins printed on it. TACKY! So if you ever make it over to our place, don't blame me for the pervasive old woman influence. :)

But look at our cute street! We are really excited about living here.

ZUMBA anyone?

2009-05-28T21:36:00.002-06:00

Don't ask me what I was expecting when I went to a group exercise class at my local rec center in the middle of the day. I mean, who besides college graduates spending a few weeks with nothing to do at their parents' house can workout at 10 am on a Wednesday? Oh yeah--senior citizens.

Needless to say, I was a little surprised when I walked into the ZUMBA class to find lots of well beyond middle aged women ready to work it! (For those of you who may not be familiar with ZUMBA--it is a workout that combines latin dances with hip hop and aerobics. Not exactly what you would imagine the "silver sneakers" 70+ club being into.) My skepticism was quickly erased once the class started. Maybe the lady sporting the shiny, skin tight, stretch shorts with blue push down ruffle socks couldn't do all the moves the instructor was demonstrating, but she sure tried. And maybe the woman wearing the teal 80s jumpsuit with green swiggly stipes pulled up to her chest had to rest between each song, but she sure knew how to shimmy!!! Needless to say, it was probably the most fun I have ever had working out.

So the class inspired me. Seeing as I can't teach next year, I did some research - There is a ZUMBA instructor certification class near San Diego in July. I can see myself workin' it with some oldsters next year . . . Who thinks I should do it?

Officer Sam

2009-05-14T17:04:00.009-06:00

After three LONG months apart, Sam and I were finally reunited in Rhode Island for his Officer Candidate School Graduation a couple weeks ago. It is so fun to be reunited!!! That explains why it took me so long to post about this.

The night before graduation, there was a "Hi Mom" party (although truth be told, it was more of a hi wife/girlfriend party). We had to listen to a bunch of rather boring speeches, but during the drill instructor's talk, he surprised the graduates by screaming at them and giving their families a taste of life at OCS. They had to run in place and do tons of pushups while screaming back commands in perfect unision--very fun to watch. I was too slow with the video camera though, so you will have to take my word for it.

My hot navy hunk

With Sam's parents

The ceremony the next day was really cool. Not coming from a military family, I haven't experienced old fashioned ceremonies like that very often. Sam was fifth in his class, so he got to lead the "first platoon" and call out commands all through the graduation ceremony. He even got to wield a sword. :)

Sam is right up front with the sword at his side.

The proud wife who can't resist that Top Gun uniform. :)

I know this video is a bit long, but you can here Sam yelling commands at the end. He is the one on the end of the third row. All of the yelling after the first 30 seconds is Sammy. Funnest.

This is Sam's ceremonial first salute. After treating him like dirt for three months, the class drill instructor and chief now have to salute Sam.

The big move

2009-05-14T17:00:00.003-06:00

Sam got his final orders and we are heading to . . . San Diego!!! We are extremely excited. He has to report to Naval Medical Center San Diego on June 1st where he will be on the engineering team in charge of maintaining the gigantic hospital complex there. And hey, no complaints from me! That is in one of the best parts of San Diego, right next to the zoo and Balboa Park. Let's just say I will NOT miss scraping snow off my car on the way to school at 6 AM. Woo hoo!

Hip Hip Hooray . . . It's Graduation Day!

2009-04-28T20:13:00.001-06:00

Last week I graduated from BYU and it feels fantastic! Granted, I still don't have a job for next year, but one thing at a time, right?

(I somehow talked my sister-in-law Christine into walking with the dorky Physical and Mathematical Science majors. What a good sport!)

The building I spent WAY too much time in over the past four years.

Dad and Grammy came out for the festivities.

My friend, Michelle. She was the only other Chemistry Education major. Needless to say, we spent lots of time together.

I went to the big commencement with one of my best and oldest friends, Kristie. I definitely had deja vu of high school graduation!

My latest obsession . . .

2009-04-28T18:51:00.000-06:00

Last week I got to visit my ADORABLE new nephew, Callum. I married into a bunch of cute nieces and nephews, but this was the first one on my side. Let's just say that I am a little obsessed. Here are some highlights from the week . . .

Look at the little guy lounging. I discovered that he loved sitting in my lap when my legs were crossed. Sarah was very grateful to find a "hands free" holding position.

Goin' out on the town! Cal certainly looks excited.

Look at that grin and the hand on his forehead. Maybe my drama queen-ness rubbed off on him. (Let's hope not for Sarah's sake)

Glamor shots with Cal at the Botanical Gardens--doesn't he look thrilled :)

Snuggling with Cal in the mornings