Larren and Amberly

What do you know??

2012-01-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

Two months into 30. Today, I found a *grey/gray hair. Tomorrow I'll probably have osteoporosis.**

*I stared at both spellings for 5 minutes. Now I can't remember what spelling I usually use...whose brilliant idea was it to have two choices for one word?

**Just kidding, universe! Don't jinx me, k??

On another note, 2 weeks into YOA (read previous post if you're confused, people) and it's already a household name. Yesterday, I was really stressed/bummed about something and Larren said, "YOA, babe. YOA!!" He's so smart.

So hey 2012...impress me.

2012-01-03T14:27:00.000-08:00

I’ve always told myself that if I ever become a stay-at-home mom, I’ll still be the kind of mom that gets ready and looks cute everyday so that her husband is excited to come home. Well, if Christmas 2011 is any indication of future behavior, I want to apologize to LPK right now. My uniform consisted of sweats, t-shirts, and white ankle socks. I know what you’re thinking—ankle socks? Don’t worry…they were never exposed. For all anyone knew, the socks I donned were socially acceptable knee-length. No makeup, of course, and hair in a bun. It was just the right combination of apparel that would confuse those that saw me. I’m sure people were saying:

“That lady (I’m 30 now…but don’t call me ‘woman’) must be SOOOO busy! Her day must be so hectic, for she seems to be sporting attire that one wears to bed. Good for her, fitting in her errands in her jam packed day!” “That girl must be on her way to the gym…what a sport! Working off the Christmas pounds!” (And if you are the kind of person that only needs to work off what you gained at Christmas, get the hell out of here.)

What can I say…I like to keep people guessing. Truth of the matter is, besides a few doctor’s appointments and a spa day with a friend of mine...we had NO plans. And it was nothing less than fantastic. Okay, I did break character (that character resembling someone who teaches gym) when we went to church, and on New Year’s Eve when we went out with friends. (PS, we spotted Pierce Brosnan up at Sundance…he was smoking a cig on the patio, which was unfortunate because not only was it FREAKING A cold, but he is looking a little less 007 and a lot more 0075.)

So on to the real reason for this post! 2011 was a great year…there were obviously ups and downs, as every year brings, but when you’ve got your BF by your side and a 5 pound dog in your lap, great jobs and a house over your head, what’s to complain about? Alas, I was ready to say “SO LONG” to 2011 and welcomed 2012 with open arms. I always love the feeling of the new year…it’s refreshing. New changes, new goals, new events.

I’ve decided that 2012 is going to be Year of Amberly. Now, for those that know me, I have enacted YOA in previous years. This is not a new thing. Apparently I like to focus on myself every year…which is either really good because it shows that I know it’s important to better myself...or it’s really sad because I have to keep doing it. Whatevs.

YOA 2012 goals:

1. Be healthier: While leggings are probably the most comfortable 80s style to make a comeback, it’s quite difficult to confuse people into thinking you’re not wearing the same pants from yesterday. Or the day before…And my daily wear of tunics or what I call “flowy shirts” (copyright Amberly Kingsford 2010) probably has some people wondering if my baby is due any day. Which, hello…it’s not because I’m not prego.

2. No more guilt. Oh.my.gosh. I did a post a while ago about knowing who you are and making your decisions for yourself. Needless to say, I’ve come a long way, but it’s still freaking hard, man! I feel like a lot of things I do are still driven by how I think others might view me if I don’t do them. What’s weird is it’s not my family and friends’ opinions of me that I worry about, because I feel like I’m pretty real with them and don’t pretend…it’s more like people at work, church or in my neighborhood. How dumb is that? So maybe my VT partner hates me because I never initiate going (I could do a whole post on my thoughts of VT), and maybe my neighbors get store-bought goodies when they move in instead of homemade ones. Who cares, right? (Confession: I love my VT partner so I hope she doesn’t really hate me. And I will admit that I did buy a few neighbors stuff from Shirley’s bakery and then pretended I made it by putting it in my own pan and heating it up in the oven. Big whoop.) The moral of the story is that I need to do whatever I can and WANT to do, and not feel guilty about it!

3. Eat out less: This one is haaaaaaaaaaaaaard. I freaking hate cooking, okay? You should see my mom or my sister try to tell me how to cook something…I’m sure I look like a deer in headlights. While I’ve made progress in training them to write ingredients and directions down instead of spewing them at me in 30 seconds, the following conversation still occurs and is enough to make me rip my hair out:

Mom: The recipe also calls for (insert random ingredient here).
Amberly: Okay, but how much?
Mom: Oh, I don’t know, Ambie. I usually just put in a bit.
Amberly: Mom! What’s ‘a bit?’ You know you can’t say that to me because I don’t know what that means.
Mom: I don’t know, I don’t follow a recipe, I just make it.

Sigh. Let’s hope that 2012 actually gets some function out of my new PINK KitchenAid mixer, rather than solely using it as a décor object.

4. Start a new blog. More on this later…but the moral of the story is that I’ve had lots of people tell me I need to start a niche blog, rather than just this blog that is all things Amberly. I’m still working on the format and what I want the blog to be like…so stay tuned. And yes, it’s more than just my husband telling me this because he has to be nice to me. It’s actually quite a few people, including some strangers. And I may not even do it…so freakout.

5. Stop obsessing: I have actually become quite an obsessor. The kind of obsessing that can keep you up until 4:30 a.m.! It can be anything from “What am I wearing in the morning?” to “Are they mad at me because I said/did whatever it is?” It drives Larren caaaraaaazyyyy. I need to stop obsessing over things I can’t change (look…we didn’t add a bay window in the kitchen when we built the house…what can we do now? Go back in time?) and move on.

6. Be on time for things: So apparently I’ve decided that my work day starts at around 9:30. Which means I’m rolling (literally…which is why I’m in leggings) out of bed at 8:30. Useful tip: if your day is awesome because you successfully “ran the gauntlet” i.e. didn’t get noticed sneaking in late…me thinks it’s time to get your A out of bed earlier. So far, so good. (I know it’s January 3 but we gotta start somewhere, m’kay?)

Okay, I think that’s enough over-sharing for now. Talk amongst yourselves.

Christmas card? We're legit...

2011-12-12T22:37:00.000-08:00

We had a fantastic 2011 and can't wait for what 2012 has in store! Merry Christmas to all our family and friends, we love you all!

Amberly, Betty. Betty, Amberly.

2011-12-06T11:04:00.000-08:00

WATCH THIS:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdpMwp641Vo

If you're sick of hearing that I was on Jimmy Fallon...skip this post, because I WAS ON JIMMY FALLON!! For those interested, here's the story:

I LOVE Jimmy Fallon. He is freaking hilarious, and I knew I wanted to see him when we went to NYC for my birthday. I told a friend at work that I was going to get on that show, no matter what I did. Thank you, universe, for listening.

I called the show that morning to listen to the recording to find out who the guests were, because I was contemplating not going. It's kind of an all day thing, and we had tickets to see a Bway show that night and I didn't want to be late. When I heard the guest was Betty White, there was no turning back. I absolutely love her, and yes--I still DVR Golden Girls. Can't get enough of those broads.

Yes, I was chosen out of line at random. There were about 200 people in line to get their tickets and they pulled out about 25-30 people randomly and asked if they wanted to play a word association game and possibly be on the show depending on how well you did. Of course I said yes! I played a few rounds with the group (and kicked butt, I might add) and they told me to come back in another hour and they'd make up their mind as to who they were picking.

I came back and got in line to go into the theater when I saw the guy that had pulled me out of the line the first time. He walked right past me to the kid that was Jimmy's partner and pulled him out of the line. I looked at Larren and said, "I guess I didn't make it...oh well, now I can watch the show and enjoy it and not be nervous." Then the guy walks over to me and says, "So do you want to be on the show?" Umm...HELLO? Of course I acted cool and non-fazed as I said yes. He pulled us out of that line and we went into the theater where some guy mic'd us and gave us the rundown of what was going to happen. "Jimmy is really competitive and wants to win, but we're rooting for Betty...just so you know." Cool, no pressure...right? I mentioned to them it was my birthday, which they thought was great, and mentioned to Betty and Jimmy when the game was about to start.

I appear calm...but I WAS A WRECK. I don't think I really watched the first half of the show...I just sat in the audience (front row!) waiting for my segment. My heart was racing and my hands were sweating like CRAZY. Yes, the first round was rough. Once Jimmy said 'plane' I was so lost. I had no idea what the word could be so I was just randomly saying words. I know you feel uncomfortable for me while watching it but who cares? We came back to win it in the end and killed it, if I do say so myself. Little known fact...we played one more round. The word was "jogging," which I got on my first guess, so the score was 25 to 5, not 15 to 5 as it appears. The magic of editing. I guess "sausage" was a funnier word to go out on. How did I guess that??? SO CRAZY!

I always wondered what I'd say if I ever met a celebrity. I thought I'd be cool and not say any of those dumb things that people say to them. But forget that! I told Betty White that I love her. I said that I grew up watching her and this was a dream come true to meet her, especially on my 30th. She just smiled and said, "That is so great! Happy Birthday, Sweetheart!" I'm such a stalker. Anyway, it was SOOO much fun and I still can't believe it happened. What are the freaking odds?? Best birthday, EVER.

AND P.S. The camera adds 10 pounds? Try like, 100.

Halloweenies

2011-11-03T18:21:00.000-07:00

The Kingsfords did not dress up this year. AND we blew off the annual Halloween festivites at my work, unlike every other person in Utah county that knows someone who knows someone who can get them a wristband to get in. AND we didn't carve or even BUY any pumpkins (and Larren's unfortunate carving skills breathe a huge sigh of relief). But I'll be damned if our trick-or-treaters weren't greeted by the cutest bumblebee they ever saw.

He managed to make one little kid cry. Apparently the costume packs on about 50 pounds and a foaming rabie mouth.

It's too bad that Scootie hates being dressed in clothing. He's had this costume for 3 years, and he's worn it a whole 23 minutes total. He definitely does not take after me. I changed my shirt three times before work to coordinate with what coat I decided to wear today, and then my whole outfit before I went out again this evening. It's about options, people.

I only wish...

2011-10-12T14:44:00.001-07:00

that I had thought of this website before "Suri" did. Such is life.

http://surisburnbook.tumblr.com/

Observations at an Erasure concert

2011-09-29T23:39:00.000-07:00

Sequinned shirts: Give me more
Sequinned blazers: I can't handle it
Sequinned shirts + sequinned blazers: I just passed out
Tight T's: wear 'em
Glow sticks: bring 'em

If you're a man and your date is a girl: Look, I know you want to pretend that you're pissed she dragged you here (you're not). All you want to do is flip through the pics on your iPhone, desperately hoping to create the illusion that the content is better than the sight before you (it isn't). Now, stand up, smile, and sing "Oh L'amour" louder than me and my mom (you can't.)

If you're a man and your date is a man: No pep-talk necessary. You're having a blast. Now wrap that tribal tattooed-arm around your love a little bit tighter and let's.do.this.

I had a BLAST. Direct quote from me: "I almost cried when it was over." One of my favorite bands, EVER, and I'm not afraid to say it. Special thanks to my work bestie for remembering they are my fave and for letting me know that they were making a stop in SLC. Too bad that your extensive music taste and/or preferences does not include the melodious harmonies of this 80s musical genius...even if he has been known to wear a tutu.

Next steps: seeing the "skills" of his back-up dancers, I will be auditioning for future spots. They've been with the group for 25 years. Me thinks it's time for an upgrade. Good thing they didn't affect my obsession.

For your viewing pleasure:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aP4qV5wCX0I&feature=related

Zumba: The Ugly Truth

2011-09-15T10:08:00.000-07:00

1. Listen to your gut. You’ve told your mom, your sister, your cousins and your bestie NO when they’ve invited you time and time again. You know what you look like “dancing” and it's enough to ruin a relationship. Enough said.

2. Fantastic! In a class with 50 women and 3 men, one of the guys will choose the spot next to you. Oh, and he dances better than you? Icing on the WTF cake.

3. Location: back row. A strategic decision, great job. Unfortunately, the back row is the “front row” to the men’s indoor soccer league that begins warming up with 20 minutes of class to go. Kill me now.

4. Please tell me the woman in front of you that keeps turning around and looking in your direction is actually making sure she can see where her young daughter is playing in the back. Please.

5. Stopping mid-way through the song and throwing your hands up in the air, as everyone continues flailing about, is perfectly acceptable. It’s also acceptable numerous times as the night wears on.

6. More than half the class is Hispanic. You are a white girl from SPANISH FORK trying to salsa. Don’t kid yourself.

7. The woman to your diagonal left is wearing white stretchy pants. There’s nothing wrong with this. While stretching and warming up, you realize she isn’t wearing underwear. There is a problem with THIS. For the love, avert your eyes for the next 60 minutes.

8. Your mom loves you. She gave birth to you. Of course she’s going to tell you halfway through class that you’re doing a great job. She also follows that statement up with: “And who cares what you look like? At least you’re having fun!” Wait a minute…

9. Your hair is beginning to cur—FRIZZ along the edges and your scalp. This is not one of your best looks.

10. It’s over. You came. You saw. You Zumba’d. Now get the hell out of here before anyone recognizes you.

This little piggy went to the farmer's market...

2011-08-27T15:32:00.000-07:00

...and went a little crazy.

How grown-ups spend Saturdays

2011-08-22T12:34:00.000-07:00

What is that….tiny little speck of light? It’s so small, it looks like a firefly. Oh.my.gosh. It’s actually light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the massive undertaking that is…our yard. After getting a professional bid for $18k to do our yard (yes, my heart skipped a beat but we do have a half acre) we decided to take on the project ourselves and do as much as we could on our own. (With a little help from our experienced family and friends. We aren’t crazy.)

So yes, the picture above doesn’t look like much, but that is Larren and his brother, Craig, filling in the sprinkler trenches. They have been working their guts out the last couple of weeks, so kudos to them and especially Larren. His last few Saturdays have started at 6 a.m. to put in 50ish miles on his roadbike, followed by at least 8 hours in the hot sun in the yard.

Next steps…top soil, curbing, final grade, and (wait for it, wait for it) SOD!! We hear it’s actually not a bad idea to lay sod later in the summer/early fall before it goes dormant for the winter. Well, I hope so, because that’s the train we’re on and it’s not taking any detours at this point (I HOPE).

We have LOTS of plans for our backyard over the next few years, including building a pergola with lighting and a shed, a fire pit, a garden (don’t laugh, it’s MY vision here), lighting along the flower beds (which the boys laid wiring for when they did the sprinklers; how’s THAT for planning ahead?) and a large cement pad for outdoor seating (hopefully to be poured in the next couple weeks). We do love our neighbors (and their chickens) but Larren likes to walk around naked (JK, it's totally Scooter) so a fence is also on the list, but it depends on how broke we are next summer.

I do want to say, that although I’m excited…I don’t know the first thing about planting flowers. I have a pot of flowers on my porch that is always on the brink of death. The idea of spending a Saturday weeding my garden and flower beds seems sooo…like my mom. But she has a beautiful yard so I’m sure I’ll be taking pointers from her when I tackle that project NEXT summer. They are also giving us 3 pretty mature trees that they want to take out of their yard, so hopefully some insta-shade from the afternoon sun! Score.

I hope to provide progress pictures in the next month(ish) but in the meantime, I leave you with this vision: I’m on the patio, sipping an ice cold bev that may or may not include an umbrella and/or a bendy straw. I am reading something of some sort (probably people.com on my ipad). In the grass, you see a tiny, fluffy, frolicking bunny-esque looking character, AKA Scooter/Scootie/Scootie Pie. And, of course I didn’t forget Larren. He is there…he appears to be mowing the lawn, but one can never tell, visions can be so blurry.

Seven.

2011-08-11T09:56:00.000-07:00

Today is our anniversary..seven years! Normally, we are not the type of couple to post mushy messages or stories on FB or the blog. I know a lot of people are, and that’s fine, but we just aren’t that type of couple. But considering that today is our anniversary and I woke up to silver boxes from my fave store, and Larren woke up to: “Will you roll over? You’re snoring.” I felt it necessary to let him know that this day is very important to me.

I feel incredibly lucky to say that I’m married to my very best friend, and I truly do love him more today than the day we were married. We have had our fair share of UPPPPPS and DOWNS (I’ll say that I account for 67%), but I can’t imagine the journey with any other person. I am pretty sassy (so he says) and I can be a lot to handle. I definitely met my perfect match 8 years ago and I love that every day, all I want to do is hang out with my bf. I would say that I can’t wait for the next 50 years, but I am afraid of wrinkles…so: I can’t wait for the next Botox-filled 50 years.

Loved you once,
Love you still,
Always have,
Always will.

Which way to the weight room?

2011-07-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was at my bf's house down the street, as I usually am when LaRonnnnn is out of town. Which, he sadly is lately with his new job. Anyway, her husband decided to take their little boy over to his mom's, so we were kid free. We were instantly excited! Girl's night!

One problem.

We wanted to go out to dinner, and we were both in sweats. We were kind of past the point where you can just change back into your clothes you wore that day. Like we had almost committed to our leisure attire and passed the point of no return, you know?

"What are you going to wear?" I asked. "Umm...I don't really want to change. I just want to wear this." she said. I agreed. My favorite pair of faded black cropped sweats and whhhellow t-shirt were ON this bod. Then it dawned on me. "Let's just stay in what we're wearing. We can pretend that we just got done working out."

Problem solved.

Don't you KNOW who I AM?

2011-07-20T15:41:00.000-07:00

I have a friend at work who is pretty opposite from me. We usually have really great conversations because we see both sides of the topic, and it’s interesting to hear each other’s view, although I’m usually right and am just humoring said friend. JK. Or am I?

Today’s topic was “what age are you when you really figure out who you are?” Personally, I think it’s somewhere around 25-30 ish. Emphasis on the ‘ish’. Which reminds me, the meaning of ‘ish’ is a whole other post I plan on tackling. Said friend and I have talked about that as well.

Back to the point. There are definitely exceptions to this age range, as you have to allot for late bloomers. Someone is always late to the party but you generally arrive around the same time. This conversation got me thinking, though. What does it really mean to know who you are?

I am almost 30. I know. Cue the tears now. But don’t cry for me too long, Argentina. My name is Amberly and of course I will celebrate my first 30 years with more than a Hostess cupcake and a trip to the Olive Garden. And a list of wants from Nordstrom, conveniently emailed to my partner in crime. Plans are in the works. Also, the big day is November 28th, for those of you who wish to send me some sort of sentimental greeting. This is huge to me, btw. Alas, I digress. Where was I?

Right…so, given my age, if someone asked me today if I know who I am, I would say…for the most part, yes. What goes into me saying this is probably different for everyone, but here’s a few areas I’ve identified as key in knowing who you are:

1. You live your life for you. I don’t mean you should ignore what your spouse/significant other wants and only do things for yourself. What I do mean is that the decisions you make in your life are exactly that, yours. You shouldn’t make them based on what you think other people think you should do. I’ve seen this pattern regularly with people I've known, and I think it's pretty prevalent amongst the majority of people. I think it’s one thing to not want to let those that love you down, but I think there comes a point in your life where you have to say: this is my life and I have to make decisions based on my happiness. After all, at the end of the day, you are the one living it.

2. You don’t care what other people think about you. I think if this were a test, I would score negative 20 points in this area, because I have always been the type of person that cares. As my girl Jules from Cougartown would say, GAC. Guilty as charged. (By the way, that show is NOT about cougars picking up younger men. If you’re not watching it, you should. It’s HILL.AIR.E.ASS.) I worry what people say about me, if they like me, etc. But I pretend NOT to. That’s the weirdest part. And then I obsess later about what they must think. I think I’m getting better here, though. Of course I’m not advocating that you let all caution out the window and you don’t care about others feelings towards you. You have a reputation to uphold, after all. I’m just saying that you shouldn’t let the fear of what others think dictate your actions. This could go hand-in-hand with item 1.

3. “This is the true story about when people stop being polite, and start being real.” Yes, Real World on MTV was my first introduction into reality TV, and I haven’t stopped the obsession. Although now I’ve switched to anything and everything that Bravo produces. (Except for any of the chef shows. Not interested. Although I’m pretty sure Curtis Stone wants me to have his child. I will definitely keep you posted on that.)

I do agree with the general idea that you should be real. Once you get to the point in your life where you feel like you can be real with those around you, and stop putting up a front, you’re golden. This means: stop being fake. I’m not really interested in ‘surface friends.’ You’re either “in” or “out” with me, buddy.

I could go on and on, but I think those are the most important. When I look back at myself over the years and when I thought I knew who I was and what I wanted, I’m slightly amused. And of course, I'm still figuring it out. And I’m sure at 35, I’ll read this post (or my assistant will read me this post while my stylist finishes my hair so that my makeup artist can get started) and I’ll laugh and think I still didn’t know what the H was going on.

Headache

2011-07-12T11:16:00.000-07:00

This is what my cute summer beach hat gives me...I think I seriously must have a larger than normal head because this also happens to me when I wear headbands.

Anywho...my big head and I are off to Powell! At least I'll be soaking up the sun...in a very skin cancer/wrinkle prevention way...

In the words of SJP from Sex and the City...

2011-07-10T21:25:00.000-07:00

Hello, Lover!

The off-limits/PSYCH room

2011-06-22T11:34:00.000-07:00

When I was growing up, we had a front room off the entryway that was always off-limits. We couldn't sit on the furniture, and my mom was very particular about the vacuum lines in her peach carpet, in that she wanted to see them and not foot prints. I always swore that when I had a house, you would be able to sit in every room, lay on whatever you liked, and vacuum lines? Please.

Then I grew up...and built a house...and now...I have an off-limits room. I kind of feel like everyone should have one, if possible. All the other rooms in your house have to be functional, and have to be cleaned before company comes over. Not this room. No one uses it, so it psychs your guests out into thinking you have a totally orderly and spotless house, because it's the first room you see. Yes, sometimes I stare at this room because I'm that in love with it. Someone came over the other day to look at the piano. They stepped on the rug and I had to pretend like I wasn't having an inward seizure as I stared at their dirty feet. It was the longest 2 minutes of my life.

I LOVE my piano. I almost re-painted it a different color because I wasn't sure I was into it when I was done, but once the room came together, it became my favorite peice in the room. It sounds lovely when I play the whole two songs I have memorized on it. I need to buy piano books...stat. Enya and Fur Elise are getting a little old.

FYI: I hate posting any pics of any projects or rooms in my house because I don't want to be another BRAG BLOG...but considering that I posted on this a few months ago when it was unfinished, I wanted to show the finished product. (I have, at any given moment, 5 million design ideas running through my head, 5-6 active projects, and a lot of times, I never feel like the project is finished. So this is my redemption.) Also, given that only close friends of mine read this blog and know me, it shouldn't be bragging, right?

It's always so bright in here...I love it...when I'm walking by, of course, and NOT sitting on the couch.

No one is allowed to sit on this couch or lay on these pillows...

2011-06-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

I guess I'm a sucker for a cute face.

Travelling: Thoughts by Amberly

2011-05-03T20:06:00.000-07:00

Having just returned from somewhat of a vacation, I felt the need to share some thoughts on travel.

1. Be sure to pack your entire closet. Sure, you end up wearing the same outfit every day, but it's about options, people!

2. Airport does not equal PJs and or/sweats. I know, I know. Everyone seems to be doing it. But it's like Carson Kressly says, "If you want to feel like you just rolled out of bed and are wearing pajamas, then stay in bed in your pajamas." But, if you happen to find yourself flying somewhere like Italy or France, I will allow the occasional Juicy jumpsuit. I know...so cliche, right? One of THOSE girls. But when you've been flying for almost a day...even Carson will have to admit that you WILL be sleeping on the plane, so it's best to at least be in somewhat fashionable leisure attire.

3. Crap, I just parked the car and the shuttle is coming. Do I run? Nay. I am not a gazelle, I never run, unless someone is chasing me. And even then, I'm sure to be dead because it takes me probably 30 minutes to run a mile. I digress...another shuttle is coming in 3 minutes. Relax. But fyi...don't relax too long. The heaters in the shuttle stations don't work, they just pretend like they are as they click away on their little timers.

4. Ear plugs. Ear plugs. Ear plugs. Do you want to know what it's like to share a room with Larren Kingsford? Watch "Trains, Planes, and Automobiles." I'll give you one guess which character he plays in that movie out of John Candy and Steve Martin. HINT: John Candy.

5. Workout clothes. Who are we kidding? You won't workout...they just take up prime suitcase real estate for the clothes you will be buying at H&M. Although...now that Utah is getting an H&M, you just might use those workout clothes, right? Let's be real, here.

6. Your bottles containing liquids always explode. I know, you already wrap them in their own grocery sack, away from your clothes and other items, and they STILL explode and get all over. Yes, you're up to 2 grocery sacks now...but let's try 3 next time. Cross your fingers.

7. Never, and I repeat, NEVER is McDonald's a good idea. I don't care how big of an emergency you feel it is...how late you've gotten to your destination...how desolate your surroundings seem and that giant yellow M appears to be a beacon of light in the encompassing darkness of night. No McDonald's, EVER. This is NOT a happy meal.

8. Continental breakfast. Sure, your hair is in a bun, you have on men's sweats, no make up or a bra, but you are UP before 10 a.m. on vacation! You get down there and you eat that bowl of Frosted Flakes with pride. Okay, and a side of fruit because it cancels everything else out that you eat for the rest of the day.

9. Pretend to be local. Don't you EVER take that map or GPS out in public. I don't care if you're in Chicago and you're supposed to be in Houston. You pretend you're supposed to be there, duck into a shop, and review your location. Memorize it. Okay, you're off! Look how cool and local you look!

10. Don't sleep on the plane. Just don't. Look, I know you're tired because you were out the night before and got one, I repeat, ONE HOUR OF SLEEP before you had to head to the airport. But if you do sleep on the plane, you will do that awkward head bob before eventually falling into a deep sleep with your head back and your mouth WIDE OPEN, and the person who is supposed to love you is laughing at you and tells you about it only after you've woken up and have to face your stewardesses and airplane neighbors. For the love, drink a Dt. Coke and stay awake.

"Um...I wouldn't dare do it..."

2011-04-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

I have been dreaming of taking on this project for a few years, and I finally did it! I stalked KSL for a few weeks and found the cutest piano--just the right amount of character and the perfect size for my front room. It's almost 100 years old and still belonged to the original family. The lady who we bought it from had taught piano forever and had taken great care of it and tuned it regularly. All the keys worked and the insides were good. It was pratically a steal. Before:

After:

The reader will please note that I did this entire job myself, including disassembling all the parts with all the little screws. "Yes, Larren, I'm keeping track of the screws!" The reader will also note that Larren was not too happy when he was called in for reinforcement because I couldn't figure out how to put it back together for the life of me. "Where the ___ are all the screws?"

So yes, although I did this myself, Larren vacuumed out all the cobwebs (I almost had a seizure and ran around the house) and the mice pooh (surprisingly, no seizure). And how cute is my seat cover? I reupholstered it with a staple gun and fabric from Ikea of all places. That place has been so good to me lately.

I didn't plan on it, but it's totally Tiffany blue. So now I'm living in my own Pavlovian (sure, sounds like a real word) experiment, except instead of a bell, it's a piano key that sends me drooling for over-priced jewelry that I will never wear because I love gold, but must buy because I never know when I'll be invited to hang with the Real Housewives of New York in the Hamptons to play tennis and brunch.

So there you go. You either love it or you hate it. The reaction has been very positive but there have been a few oldschool peeps that all but faint when I mention I'm painting a 100 year old piano blue. They quickly recover and say, "I'm sure it's fabulous...I just wouldn't dare do it." So the room is slowly but surely coming together. I need to exchange the rug on the floor for an 8 x 10 (but same print), get a chair for the corner you don't see, end table, floorlamp, paint the walls above the wainscot, and get new pillows. Does it ever end?? This is where I need advice, though, so hopefully my friends are still reading my blog. I don't know what colors I want to accent with--like with the paint and the pillows. I'm loving the yellow with the piano but that's as far as I've gotten. This room caused Meltdown of 2011 a few weeks ago, so hopefully someone has some ideas and will save me from emotionally eating my way into 300 pounds.

a roMANtic moment...

2011-03-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

Picture it. We are winding down from the weekend, in our PJs, and lying in bed. (Relax, we are fully clothed, the lights are on and we are on opposite sides of the bed. This isn't that kind of blog).

ANYWHO, my DVR knows how I like things and tries to keep it interesting, so it has surprised me with an old episode of Oprah that I haven't yet seen. I didn't even ask it to. What a PEACH! So, there I am, watching a woman being proposed to by her boyfriend, and I'm carried away by the moment and I start crying.

I look over at Larren. He is crying, too! HOW ROMANTIC!!

...but, this tender moment is not so, my friends. You see, my husband is (unfortunately) watching Jackass 3 on his laptop and laughing so hard, he's crying.

Sigh. So close...yet so far.

And now I must go, as I'm sure Larren's brain has either exploded from laughing so hard, or he is putting on a speedo, assembling a go-kart, and looking for something "stretchy," about to re-enact the Human Slingshot.

L.O.V.E.

2011-02-23T13:55:00.000-08:00

I love me some Downeast (home department ONLY, thank you...I'm sorry, but I've seen enough people wearing the same outfit as me in Utah County than I care to mention, no matter how cute their stuff is. My eye might WANDER when I'm near that section, but I don't let it get carried away). Anywho, I have been semi-involved with this beaut for the last few months. In case you can't tell, it's a pale gold silky fabric covered with a darker gold velvety pattern. Yes-it's fabuloso. (Spanish for fabulous.) I first spotted it in November and thought-I must have you. Which isn't an uncommon thought for me when it comes to clothes/food/you name the vice. JK. At least on the food. JK again.

I digress. ANYway, given that I didn't have a living room, not to mention, my own home at the time, I took a photo of it and committed it to memory. Over the months, we've seen each other casually. Sometimes it shows up in the Draper store, sometimes in Orem, sometimes not at all. Sometimes it has friends and sometimes its solo. This weekend, I decided to make it official and FINALLY bought it. I mean, it has to be a sign. I cannot escape this chair no matter what I do, right? I'm practically doing it and Downeast a favor by taking it off their hands. It now resides in my living room.

Last night, I sat across the room and stared at it for 10 minutes. I lurve it.

Scenes from an Italian Restaurant...

2011-02-18T21:20:00.000-08:00

The place: Harvest Restaurant in Lehi.
The date: Valentine's Day, 2011.
The players: 30 of my closest 'friends.'

We both cashed in our 'Get out of Vday Jail free' cards this year, and thus, at 2 p.m. on 2/14/2011, had nothing planned or bought for each other. We (read: 99% me and 1% Larren) had gone on a BR and J.Crew binge the week before, so we were set as far as "gifts." (Dear Amberly, please enjoy this beautiful _____ {insert button down/blazer/etc}. Love, Amberly.) But we had to go out on Valentine's Day, right? Isn't it a rule? Our go-to favorite restaurants were totally booked, so we ended up at Harvest Restaurant at Thanksgiving Point. We had never been before, so why not today?

I liked it, Larren didn't. Blah blah blah. Let's get down to the important information. Have you ever really looked at couples out on Valentine's Day? It's quite comical. Before you get upset and think: But we LOVE going out on Vday, know this: I LOVE going out. What can be better than having other people cook for you and zero clean up? But you have to admit, it's kind of funny looking at everyone around you: EVERYONE is a party of two and there are no kids in sight. They're all wearing and acting their 'best.' Next year, pay attention. First off, we were SURROUNDED by a handful of other couples and we were THISCLOSE to eachother. I think that's why I actually was able to examine the couples in our midst and decide who was forced to participate in this awkward ritual. I haven't ever had to whisper my conversation for an hour or been close enough to lean over to the couple on my right and tuck in their napkins. It was a great icebreaker, I didn't want them to ruin their ensembles, but not something I'd like to do often. Now, to meet our crew:

Note: Names have been changed/made up to protect the slightly awkward.

Dirk and Melody: These guys were out.on.the.town. Dirk was ready to show Melody that she could have whatever she wanted. He is care free. In love. Appetizers....check. Main course...check. Dessert...check. Feeding eachother...cheeeeck. Check....yes, checking it and checking it twice. I'm going to throw Dirk a bone and say that he probably wasn't wearing his glasses. Or he was trying to memorize the receipt so as to lock this magical night in his memory. With the waitress standing right there. And we were sitting 6 inches away, as well. "Umm...what is this? We didn't order that...." "Uh, yeah, that was her salad." "Oh, right...but this other thing, we didn't order..." After several minutes, Dirk finally handed over his credit card and they boxed up everything left on the table, except the tablecloth. I hope she at least held his hand on the way out.

Tom and Nancy: This is my seasoned couple of the evening. They are older, and Tom, with his salt and pepper hair, reeked of years of Valentine's Day practice. He had called ahead and had the restaurant place a couple of flower boquets at their table so that they were ready and waiting when they arrived. Tom breezes in a few steps ahead of her and waits for her to see the display. He is wearing a leather jacket, which I forgive him for, not because of his obvious attempts at a romantic evening for Nancy, but because he is old and doesn't know better. Nancy pretends that she's used to this flower business and just smiles and sits down at the table. Nancy...you vixen. Well played.

Harold and Debbie: Harold and Debbie, a couple in their early 50s, didn't speak. Once. At least not that I saw and given that I was 10 feet away from them, I think I am the authority on that one. I believe they deserve an honorable mention here, though, because they didn't seem to like eachother but still felt compelled (i.e forced) to celebrate.

Steve and Stephanie: I'm kind of mad at Steve-o because he obviously didn't give Steph enough notice that they were going out on the town tonight. If he had, she would have had TIME to iron that button down shirt AND button down floor length khaki skirt. Steve is also sporting a leather jacket, similar to Tom's. Do I forgive him? Nay. Let me just go out on a limb and say that unless you're a man on a motorcycle or a woman following the latest fashion trend {guilty}, is the 90s look really keeping you warm? Me thinks no. Steve also suffered from Awkward Eye Contact Syndrome. In other words, he doesn't know that when I happen to glance over at him, wondering WHY he hasn't taken off that 'coat,' and we lock eyes, when I look away and then look back to make sure he's also done the polite look away, it's AWKWARD if he's still looking. And still awkward the second, third, and fourth time.

So there you have it. Something tells me I will participate again next year, and I hope the scenery and cast are just as great.

For the kids: Scenes from an Italian Restaurant is a reference to Billy Joel's song of the same name. Just helping you out. I don't even like that song, but "Piano Man" happens to be on my top 10 list. Also, his daughter, Alexa, looks EXACTLY like him--it's him with a wig. Life isn't fair sometimes.

things I'm obsessed with right now...

2011-01-25T22:16:00.001-08:00

I, for one, am sick of seeing fugly socks and flipflops in my last post from MONTHS AGO, so just a quick note on a few things I'm loving right now:

1. Scooter. This is obvious, you may say, but let me just tell you that my dog has an insane effect on people. Young, old, cool, dbags...he is a lover and will get you . Example: my velvet tufted sofa was (FINALLY) delivered today! (note: it's beautiful...fabulous...and hella uncomfortable. But I digress.) The kids (they were my age and under 30, therefore, 'kids') that delivered it were definitely 'bad boys.' Nickle sized gauges in their ears and all. They probably had sleeve tats. Which, if you know me, is not a bad thing, I'm just trying to paint a picture for you. Anyway, Scooter had them at hello. It was adorbs/cute/slightly weird watching a Jesse James wannabe coo: "Heyyy puppyyyy...".

2. Parenthood. Not the act/profession/role, but the actual show. I'm all caught up on Season 1 and loving Season 2. ESPECIALLY because my boyfriend, John Corbett, is joining the cast next week. You may remember him from Sex and the City. Carrie really screwed that up and I guarantee she will regret it, but it may not be until SATC part 5. I know that I, for one, have forgiven him for his reeeeediculous role in Serendipity.

3. Mumford and Sons--how I did NOT know about these guys until now, I'm not sure. Their album, Sigh No More, is turning out to be one of my faves of 2011. Yes, it's still early in the year, but every girl (and man) needs some angry/mellow/kick A banjo in their life. Check them out-they are fab.

4. Socks on wood floors. The new house has hardwood floors throughout (minus the bedrooms) which has led to the abandonement of walking all-together. I pretty much act as though I have Wheelies on at all times. LOVE IT. It's kind of like that scene from Risky Business with Tom Cruise in the 80s...you know, where he has on a dress shirt, boxer shorts and tube socks and he's sliding across the floor playing air guitar? That's me. But you shouldn't know what I'm referring to because it's rated R so you shouldn't have seen it. (Of course I saw the edited version. Der.)

I could go on...

When camping happens to good people...

2010-10-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

6 years...

2010-08-11T19:09:00.001-07:00

updates--finally!

2010-06-01T10:51:00.001-07:00

Hi! Remember me? I'm Amberly, and this is my blog. And I've TOTALLY neglected it for the last few months. I understand this and have come to terms. But let me explain what I've been up to.

First, we sold our house and moved in with my parents! AHHHH! Crazy. Our house sold fast and we couldn't be happier with the outcome. We just never felt at home in the area we were in, and wanted to live closer to AF/PG. Soo..J&J have us in their basement and it's been pretty awesome. My sister and her fam live right next door so it's been a lot of fun hanging out the past month. Scooter stays at Aimie's during the day, where he and Mocha tear it up while we are all at work. Larren and I wondered once what he does all day when we're at work, so we set up a video camera. He pretty much slept on the LoveSac from the moment we left until he heard the garage door opening at the end of the workday. So, it's nice for him to have someone to play with during the day now, and Aimie loves when he throws up on her rug. (She just called to inform me that had happened...ew.)

I started a new position at work! After 3 years of Account Management, I decided I was ready for something new and I now work for our training/education department as a Project Coordinator. I know that means nothing to you reading this, but trust me--right up my alley and I super love it. It's a way fun team and never a dull moment so I'm VERY happy with the outcome.

The all girls bike ride I did last year, Little Red Riding Hood, is this weekend. I decided to try for 100 miles so wish me luck! Aimie wasn't able to participate this year so I'm going solo. So if you happen to be in Logan and see some girl with a flat tire or her chain off her bike...that's me. Cross your fingers that doesn't happen because I will be S.O.L if it does as I've NO CLUE how to fix it. I'll just wait for the support crew and bat my eyelashes and get back on the bike.

I started a spray tan business! It's called Glow and I'm now accepting appointments. If you got a Facebook request from me to become a fan of it, you should do it because it makes me look popular and legit. :) My website is still a work in progress but it's www.akglow.com. I'm mobile! That's right...I come to you like those girls on Sunset tan, but I'm way cooler and come with half the drama. So if you feel like you don't want skin cancer or wrinkles from baking in the sun, but want to look tan, call me!

That's all for now. I will have more updates later from Little Red and Larren's annual motorcycle ride with his bro, Craig. They are leaving next week so our blog will start to look fun and alive! Stay tuned!

For my sorority sisters...

2010-02-10T21:53:00.000-08:00

Maybe these girls are onto something...

http://fashionista.com/2010/01/no-frumpy-cornells-pi-phi-forbids-american-apparel-leggings-gross-plastic-shizzz/?img=1#imgs

Does Home Depot offer Couples Counseling?

2010-01-01T22:19:00.000-08:00

I think I'm onto something here. They totally should...for couples that are new to renovation, and one half of that couple rhymes with Bamberly. (I'm a little high strung and head strong, but I am FUN, dangit!)

Sometimes, I get random ideas. Random idea of December 2009 was to makeover our guest bath with a classy and feminine motif. I was hesitant to blog about this because I didn't want to look like I was bragging, but holyyyyy cowwww. This was SUCH a project that I have to post about it so that everyone I've discussed the project with can see that we actually survived (barely) and it's finished.

Before: Eh.

After: Hi, I'm totally fabulous and remodeled. Come on IN!

I have to highlight these two pics of the cutest dresses that I found in a store in Park City. They were my inspiration for colors, etc.

We put up beadboard, painted it purple (frosted plum, to be exact), painted the vanity and put on a new marble top, framed the existing mirror, and tiled the floors. I absolutely ADORE those floors and their old fashioned feel with the small b&w tiles. Shout out to my bro-in-law, Jodie, for all his hard work. He is a tile guru and we are in debt to him for his fab work.

So there you go. It only took one month, 3 trips to Home Depot, 17 fights, 3 1/2 Amberly meltdowns, several (ahem) swear words, and a partridge in a pear tree. :)

Golden birthday

2009-12-12T20:47:00.001-08:00

That's right...the golden birthday--28 on the 28th. I wonder if I'll stop announcing the big day once I turn 30...and if I'll ever age past 29 when asked my age? :)

The day started off with a mani and a pedi, and Larren decided to embrace his feminine side and go with me. The girl working on him told him that he had the best hands and feet of most of her clients. My girl didn't tell me that...but HEY. I Ped Egg, okay? (It works.)

Lunch at my fave place, Cafe Rio, followed with dinner at Happy Sumo and the lights at Temple Square with my family. It's becoming a tradition each year to go, at least for me and Larren, but the last few years my family has also come. I just love Christmas lights and it's very nice of the church to go to all that trouble for me, and for all those strangers to show up to celebrate with us.

The fam minus Ashley-she had to work and she forgot it was my birthday anyway.

We rode Trax to and from Temple Square. I think these two girls love being in the spotlight as much as I do....what fun we will have in their teenage years...

I can't remember where Addi got this pose...but it's becoming her signature, so Zoey and I decided to join in. I look like I'm yawning.

We had icecream cake at Aimie and Jodie's. Here I am showing off my awesome shirt. Aimie hates it but I had just told her here that she could borrow it anytime, and I wanted to make sure Larren had an unobstructed view. I have Aimie's name for Christmas...I wonder how she feels about tropical wildlife now that she's had a few weeks to think about it?

Yes! I blew out all the candles on the first try...let's eat.

Thanks to all my family and friends for making this a great birthday! Love you all!

Belated Halloween

2009-11-21T22:38:00.000-08:00

I am REALLY starting to love Halloween. As always, Omniture goes totally crazy. This year, our department's theme was 80s movies, so we chose Star Wars. I was Princess Leia, but the modern day 'cute' version. No way was I wearing that bathrobe dress she wears in the movies. :)

Me and Larren--I forgot my belt at my desk but you get the idea with the costume. I wasn't doing much moving that day...it was TIIIIIIGHT.

As far as trick-or-treaters, we ended up eating most of the candy we bought for kids in the neighborhood, but we made sure that Scooter was in costume to greet the ones that did show up. He was NOT diggin' it.

Also, here is a link to show you how crazy Halloween truly is at work. You have to watch it to believe it. Enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=det0khhzfJs

Kappa Delta Reunion 2009

2009-10-30T20:44:00.000-07:00

Every October, Kappa Deltas across the nation celebrate our founding on October 23, 1897. My years in KD were some of the best of my life, and the friendships I made are still strong. So of course, every October, a group of us get together and hang out like old times.

Me, Mary, and Lysh kick off the weekend's festivities in SLC. Don't let the smiles fool you. We were freaking cold.

Bevs and Bedazzlement. Enough said.

Saturday was the actual luncheon in Logan. We had a great time catching up with current members, as well as members from the 70s and 80s even! Afterwards, we toured the house and were able to see all the upgrades they've done since we've been gone. (How did we live there in the summer with no AC?!)

Mary, Lysh, me, Carly, Erica, and Bethany in front of the KD house.

After reading the KD Journal from our years in KD to the current members, and almost peeing our pants, (seriously, I was laughing so hard-my face was on fire and I was sweating) we headed to the unfinished room. It's COVERED with KD names spray painted on every inch of the walls and ceiling. I'm pretty sure that my name is in that room a hundred times, but since I couldn't find it...I figured that it was time for an update.

High on spray paint fumes.

What trip to Logan would be complete without a tour of the old campus? Here we are, on top of the "A." This is where people kiss each other on a full moon at midnight to become True Aggies. Now, I've been known to love me some kissing...but I totally boycotted this tradition in college. And I turned out just fine...so there.

Yes. This picture was staged. Yes. We are ridiculous. And yes. We are fabulous. Don't find us. We'll find you.

Dinner at Hamilton's before hitting the town. We will always remember Brad...our waiter. I think he thought we were cougars, so we made sure we told him that we were only a few years older than him and very fun.

No explanation necessary.

I had so much fun! I can't wait for next year...but I think it's okay. Logan needs that long to recover from AOMFT 2009...no...no? :)

serious.as.a.heart.attack.

2009-08-23T20:24:00.001-07:00

i went camping this weekend. enough said.

I heart NYC

2009-08-19T20:28:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, we went to NYC. We didn't get many pics, but I don't really think anyone reads my blog anymore (dang Face Book...you little Vixen), but I will post them anyway. We had a lot of fun...we saw The Lion King, 9-5 with Alison Janney (love her) and ate some fabulous food. I also sweat my face off in the humidity. But...I still heart NY and always will. Don't forget--Working Girl is my all-time favorite movie.

Here is me at Katz Deli, eating their famous pastrami on rye with mustard:

Here are how many times it takes Larren to get a picture of me...he doesn't get just how to get that perfect blog picture. Instead, he just shoots and then laughs his head off at the result.

This one, the second, is his favorite. He slapped the table. He does that when he laughs really hard.

I'm assuming there are others husbands out there like mine--that don't speak 'blog.'

Larren-outside Katz Deli.

Canal Street, where I bought...a few things...look, I can stop anytime I want to. Really, it's under control.

And last...this is for my brother-in-law, Jodie. He calls Scooter "Prince" and says that we baby him and his paws don't touch the ground. Scooter gets anxiety anytime I get out my red suitcase because he KNOWS we're going somewhere, and he isn't going with us. He is on my heels and just wants me to pick him up so badly. It drives me nuts and I end up getting really mad at him.

To everyone who thought I wouldn't get use out of that baby sling I made last summer...it works for dogs, too.

Sandy Eggo

2009-08-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

We just returned from sunny San Diego with Aimie, Jodie and the girls. We had a blast. We obviously hit the beach a few of the days, where Larren and the girls showed off their boogie board skills, while I worked on my tan. Do you know I hate sand? If anyone has ever seen "Untamed Heart" there is a quote by Rosie Perez that is awesome: "You are like wet sand...in my underwear." You have to say it in her Brooklyn accent but it's fab for any ocassion where something is annoying...but I digress. Here we are...beach ready.

Aimie, Jodie, Avery Jo, Zoey and Addi.

Day one of our adventure we had dinner with my sister from another mister, Tiffany. She also works at Omniture but in the San Diego office. We managed to find a spot clear of homeless people setting up tents (I'm not kidding) to snap a photo in downtown SD after dinner.

One of the days we rented Harleys and drove down the PCH with Aimie and Jodie, and their friends Mishawn and Sheldon. Jodie used to have a motorcycle, and both Sheldon and Larren currently own their own...so what could go wrong for these experienced bikers? Here we are--about to embark on our journey.

And then...

....an impromptu stop along the way once Jodie's key remote vibrated off the motorcycle and fell to the ground, somewhere along the journey. Once he turned off the motorcycle, the weird keyless system wouldn't allow him to start the motorcycle up again without the remote. Here we are waiting for bike shop Will to make the 30 minute journey down to meet us with a new remote. Jodie (far left) is giddy with excitement as we count down Will's arrival.

NEXT...Larren was feeling left out and felt like he needed some attention, so he decided to leave his ignition on and ended up with a dead battery. After unsuccessful attempts to push-start the bike and 30ish minutes later, they found some nice young woman who gave them a jump. Note: do not ask a policeman for help when your battery is dead. They don't care and their response to you will include the word 'dude.' (This is California, of course.) Also, when you are being push started, maybe you should keep your legs on the bike, rather than flailing them around like an octopus. It's not helping the pusher. And lastly--have the girls hide while you search for someone-female-to help you with a jump. Flash your best smile and appear single...and BINGO. Vroom, vroom.

Of course we had to pose. And of COURSE both our helmets were pink. We.were.so.dang.excited.

One of the days while Aimie and Jodie took the girls to Legoland, and had a celebrity sighting of Napolean Dynamite, I might add, Larren and I drove up to LA and saw Skyler. I just love that kid. We have never had a chance to see him play, and having our own private mini concert at his house was awesome...even if Larren couldn't hear me above the ringing in his ears for the next 3 days.

What is SD without Sea World? Here I am...petting a sting ray. I think I posed for 10 minutes before Larren got this picture. The sting ray is probably long gone.

Me, Aim, Zoe Bug and Avery Jo, waiting for Shamu Rocks to begin. Avery isn't crying--she is probably just beside herself because Shamu is about to come out. She is a total Shamu groupie, I bet. Like those fans you see crying when they're at a concert. Zoey and I are smiling despite the fact that Larren had informed us of what we now call the "Shamu Conspiracy." Did you know there's more than one Shamu??? How I didn't know this and lived in ignorance the past 20 years, I have no idea. I also coined my new phrase to keep Zoey in line: "Don't make me go killer whale on you." Lots of fun had by all!

Velcro

2009-07-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

Who is Scooter, Mocha, and Avery Jo's favorite person? HINT: Not Larren.

Little Red Riding Hood 2009

2009-06-07T10:31:00.000-07:00

Random: I'm walking through the streets of Rome last October with my family (hey, I'm setting the scene for you, not trying to show off) and I looked at Aimie (my older sister) and said, "You know what? We should really get into road biking next summer. Wouldn't that be SOOO fun? We could be active and get really skinny." That is how Barb and Betty Biker were born...

Okay, so we're not your typical bikers. Getting started, we were more concerned about the 'cuteness' of our bikes, rather than function. We more more concerned about jerseys that were cool and spandex shorts that made our butts look good (I'm still looking), rather than worrying about the amount of padding they had in the seat to make our long rides comfortable. And that's okay. Just because we are more on the girly side, and still might look for the 'cute' in the sport, doesn't mean we don't love it and really enjoy getting out and going on a ride...

Our goal when we started this was to take part in our first ride, Little Red Riding Hood. It take place each year in Logan, Utah. It's one of only TWO all-female rides in the whole United States, and each year, it sells out. Over 2,600 women participated this year, and we were two of them. They have distances for EVERYONE...from 15 to 100. Aimie and I decided to give 67 miles a go...and we did it!

Here we are right before the ride started...all smiles and full of energy. This picture is deceiving...we had a little pre-ride drama in the morning. We got to the ride in plenty of time, but had some unexpected malfunctions. We're not sure what happened but one of my brakes was completely jacked up and we couldn't get my tire on without loosening the whole thing, which made it pretty loose once it was on; I had to pull full-force to get that brake to work, and by the time we got it 'working' all our 67 miler peeps had already left and they were announcing that no more 67 milers could go. I was so stressed...it sounds funny but I was almost in tears. I was so annoyed that I had been getting ready for this the past few months and had made it a goal to do it, and a random problem was going to make it so that we weren't going to get to ride in our group and have to ride in a shorter distance. To top it all off, my odometer decided that IT didn't want to work either--leaving me with NO clue how fast we were going, how long we'd been riding, or how far. But...I still had one good brake, and the other one did technically still work with a little extra pressure, so we wolfed down a bagel and banana and took off anyway.

This is me, about to cross the finish line...

I love this pic...this is Aimie, about to cross the finish line. Look at that enthusiasm!

The finish line! This ride is really cool because part of the proceeds go towards women's cancer research, so there is a pretty strong pink theme going on and they make it SOOO fun for all the women.

Yea! We did it. They had a huge celebration at the end...tons of tents up with yummy food--chocolate fountain, HELLO!--cute gear for sale, music, raffles, massages, etc. It was cool seeing all the people there, supporting their moms/sisters/wives/friends, etc. and really cheering everyone on and having a great time afterwards, celebrating. We will definitley do this next year; I've already let Aimie know we're in for the 100!

DC

2009-05-16T06:31:00.000-07:00

Yea! We finally made it out to DC and can cross that off our list of places to see. We had so much fun! We stayed with one of my BFs from my sorority in college, THE Mary McMullen (future mayor of San Diego, don't worry about it.)

Our first night we headed to Baltimore with Mary and 20 of her closest friends to see an Orioles vs Yankees game.

Me and Larren outside the stadium on Eutaw street...get it?

I will admit that the majority of the game, either Mary and I were talking, or making signs, hoping to get on the jumbotron. This one says "The KDs love the Os." Yeah, we lied. We were rooting for the Yankees, but when you're in a crowd that loves the Os, you'll do whatever for your 15 seconds of fame. Alas, no jumbotron. Whatev.

Here is Mary drawing a very detailed and easy to read mad of DC to help us on our journey. I am not worried.

We saw Mt. Vernon, Washington's estate. It was huuuge and so pretty. We saw where the slaves lived, where he was buried, etc. I'm very into history so it was pretty fascinating.

Larren and G dub.

He had his own dock...very impressive.

Mary McMullen Moonlight Monument Tour. Amberly: "Hey, my inlaws tell me there is a way cool tour at night called the Moonlight Monument Tour. We have to do that." Mary: "Save your money. I'll take you on your own private Moonlight Tour and tell you way more crap than the tour guide would."

Lincoln's was awesome, so impressive. Our all-knowing tour guide also pointed out the back of Lincoln's head was the profile of Robert E. Lee, watching over Arlington.

This was my fave-the Jefferson.

This was cool. I am kissing Einstein because Mary just showed us the coolest thing. If you stand on a certain point in front of him and talk to him, your voice is magnified as if you're speaking into a microphone, but only you can hear it.

We also had a capitol tour given to us by Joe, who is one of Mary's friends, but more importantly, strongly resembles a giant little boy. I apologize that I don't have pictures of Joe to back this claim up. It's also more important to note that he does not agree with my observation.

The dome inside the capitol. I've noticed that I have a thing for ceilings, as this is not the only 'ceiling pic' I took on this trip.

I also have 2 other sorority sisters that live in the area, Dethrow and Courtney. They came over for dinner and it was so fun to catch up! They haven't changed a bit and it was fun reminiscing about the old days. Okay, let's be honest (LBH in KD-lingo)....reminisce is not the word. Gossip fest? :) They did point out that I still say 'shiz' and thought that 5 years might clear that up...nope.

Me, Mare, Dethrow, and Courtney.

This is after I said "Okay....one more chocolate covered pretzel." Translation: "Seventeen more...I mean, they'll just go to waste, right?"

What trip would be complete without running into a median and completely tearing a hole in the side of your tire? Good thing we had Larren...and the nice man in slacks and a tie that stopped to help us! Note: Larren and his black hands tried to shake the man's hand at the end...but he politely just gave him 'rocks.' We laughed.

Outside the Archives. This was really cool--we saw the Declaration, the Constitution, etc.

I'm sorry--but I absolutely hate art museums. That might sound really ignorant but I just canNOT get into them...but the American History and Natural History were awesome.

I've never seen my closet nerd so happy.

All of you who KNOW me know that if I were an animal...I'd be a panda. The resemblance is eery. Sadly, we were unable to find any possums for Mary or yellow care bears for Larren.

The White House. My goal was not to see the president, but his very fab and stylish wife, Michelle. I call her Mishi. (She's fine with it.) PS: I didn't have to vote for Obama to love his wife...Republican friends, please calm down.

We also saw the DC Temple. This pose was for one purpose, and one purpose only: Mary's response. "SICK!" She said. Mission accomplished.

We had such a great time. The weather couldn't have been more perfect and the sights were amazing. Larren did point out that our last few vacations are not the relaxing kind and asked when our beach vacation is. We will have to plan that...except I have a small fear of the ocean...and I hate sand. But other than that...I'm in! :)

ConGRADuation!

2009-05-02T09:44:00.001-07:00

"Lots of people go to college for seven years."
"Yeah, they're called doctors.."

Well, he finally did it! Larren graduated yesterday from UVU (it will always be UVSC to me, a Utah County girl.) It did take him a few extra years, but considering that he switched schools, majors, and was working full time the ENTIRE time, it was bound to take some extra time. We are so glad he's done! It will be weird having him home every night...I'm a little nervous. JK.

We had a way busy day--graduation and then a small party at my parent's house. We invited family on both sides and then a few close friends and had Smokehouse cater it. It was complete with fab cupcakes from The Chocolate (soo good!) and cheesy graduation balloons, banners, plates, etc. I figured that you can only go cheese every once in awhile and get away with it, right? My parents worked so hard to get their yard all ready and de-winterized and it looked awesome. The weather cooperated for the most part--it sprinkled a bit before the party, but not during, but we ate on the covered porch just in case. It was still a little chilly but the guests were troopers and didn't complain.

I was in my element...in FULL party planner mode. I loved every second leading up to it and during. Most people stress about putting stuff like that together but I swear I was born for it and relish every little errand, task, detail, etc. Just call me J. Lo...from her Wedding Planner days. Also, I felt like I was celebrating a little bit, too...I have stressed about his classes and tests right along with him over the last few years.

Anyway, here are some pics of the grad for your viewing pleasure. (P.S. I hope he doesn't get mad but Larren has lost 40 pounds and looks amazing...wearing a dress all day didn't show off his figure so I had to brag about it here.)

Thanks to our families and friends for your support--we appreciate it and love you guys!

And one more....you know we had to have a family photo. (P.S...I realize that I have an Amberly pose...hand on hip. Whatev! It's my signature, I guess...).

By the way...it only took him 6 years...not seven. Thanks.

But...they were on SALE!

2009-03-27T22:10:00.000-07:00

I have a problem.

Ice vs. Hammer...who wins?

2009-03-01T18:31:00.001-08:00

If any of you missed the Event of the Century on Friday night, otherwise known as Vanilla Ice and MC Hammer reunited...STOP, collaborate and listen.

There I was, driving down I-15, when all of a sudden: "MC Hammer and Vanilla Ice!" says the UVU billboard. "What is this nonsense?" I think to myself. "Surely two of the (humor me here) biggest names in rap history could NOT be reuniting and gracing Utah Valley with their presence!" Or could they? Turns out, they could and they DID. And apparently, this is their one and only stop, which completely blows my mind...they must have A: owed someone at UVU a favor, B: got paid the "big" bucks (really, how much does Surreal Life on VH1 pay anyway?), C: become Mormon and wanted to place themselves in Mormon Capital of the World, aka Utah Valley. But, I digress...onto the big event.

Location: McKay Events Center. The crowd: a sea of 20-30 somethings, a large majority dressed in 80s gear and Hammer Pants that were obviously home-made. I've dressed 80s for Halloween enough to know that the D.I. does NOT have any of those left, so I appreciated their creativity and craftiness, having taken on a few sewing projects myself. Also, to my delight/amusement/horror, lots of spandex in a variety of colors for my viewing pleasure. I guess Hammer and Ice really bring out people's confidence.

Round One: Vanilla Ice.

LOOK: all black attire and full sleeve tats on each arm. I have to admit...I have a thing for the sleeve tats (I KNOW!), so he had me at "Hello UTAH!"

SET:

*blow-up skeleton arch from Walmart: CHECK

*900 water bottles to throw over the audience and drench them: CHECK

*scary a$$ dancing clown in a Santa suit: CHECKKKKK

PERFORMANCE: His performance was pretty short. Ice is sporting a harder, edgier look and music style. His songs are much more rap than "Ice Ice Baby" ever "was", but he only played about 4 or 5 of them. Rumor #1 that we'd heard: Ice refused to play his bit hit. Just when I'm starting to think that the rumors were true and he was only playing new songs, Ice says "Do you want me to go OLD SCHOOL?" Crowd goes wild. And then there's that familiar little beat...granted he did change it up a bit to be slightly more edgy to reflect his new style, but the crowd loved it. Did he stop there? No way Jose. How could you call yourself Vanilla Ice and NOT sing Ninja Rap? I never saw a more content crowd singing, "Go Ninja, Go Ninja, GO!" Ahh..perfect way to say goodbye, singing about the Ninja Turtles.

HIGHLIGHT: You'd think that with his reputation, he'd have been dropping 'f' bombs left and right, but that wasn't the case. No, Ice used words like "crap" "dangit" and "heck." Heck? He's Mormon for sure.

Round Two: MC Hammer

LOOK:

*blood red silk shirt and matching tie: GOT IT

*black leather Harley Davidson vest (that's right): HAD IT

*black Hammer pants: YOU KNOW IT

SET: uh...what set? After Ice's crew took down all his props, Hammer's didn't put anything up. Maybe he was going for less is more? (But FYI, Hammer, it wasn't.)

PERFORMANCE: Rumor #2: Hammer was bringing a choir. I'm thinking--okay, their shiny robes will be backdrop enough so maybe that's why there's no set? But, alas, no choir. But he did have a group of back-up dancers that were really good and fun to watch. But WTF Hammer? Must you end the song and run off stage, leaving us all in the dark for 2 minutes between EACH SONG? People went from chanting "Hammer" in excitement before he began, to wailing "HAMMERRRRRRRRR!" waiting for him to come back on each time. I'm thinking--are they changing costumes? Setting the stage? Deciding what song to play next? Get on the stage already so I'll stop smelling the delicious nachos the couple next to me has and thinking of a polite way to ask if they'll give me one.

HIGHLIGHT: Pumps 'n a Bump. That's right, just when you thought this lyrical genius couldn't bring you anything sweeter than "2 Legit to Quit" and accompanying dance moves, he goes and writes a whole song about his love for girls with big butts in a pair of pumps (or 'heels' as we now call them in 2009). Gotta love the Hammer.

And the Winner is...

Okay, so...who won? Duh. Vanilla Ice, aka Robert Van Winkle. Yeah, he has more of an edge, and he's always going to be remembered for "Ice, Ice Baby." But he definitely has talent and really tried to have a good time and put on a good show. He was very nice to the crowd and seemed really thankful for all the support. He even showed his softer side when saying goodbye, telling us all that family is the most important thing in this world, and started chanting "FA-MI-LY! FA-MI-LY!" I know, I know. I was in shock myself. But then I remembered that he's Mormon.

Time for an update?

2009-02-24T19:05:00.000-08:00

I have totally been slacking. I wish I could tell you that it was because my life is so busy and hectic, I can't even think straight enough to blog. But no...this is not the case, my friend. 2009 is officially the Year of Lame. Nothing too eventful has happened...so Meredith did us all a favor and got prego so we could throw her a baby shower. Go Mere!

L to R: Katie, Pam, me, Ju, Mere, Meagan and her baby, Olivia

We all made the trek to Salem to see Nadine, who is Julie's mom....okay, we went there for Meredith, too. Highlights include, but are not limited to:

1. walking in heels post knee surgery. They tell me I'm glamorous.

2. blog stalking...those at-home photo shoots are the best! Keep 'em coming people!

3. "It's like horticulture or something."

4. Pam, showing up an hour late, in her slippers, because she forgot about the party.

5. This is reserved for Julie...you know what goes here. "What a horrible idea!"

6. My official "List." I'll be prepared with topics next time, no more of this shooting from the

hip jazz.

Here we are blog stalking. I'm telling you...no one is safe. We will find you.

Cupcakes Katie made...that I couldn't eat...but aren't they cute? That little temptress...

Here I am, trying to pretend like Julie's present was also from me. I'm not moving. Take the picture.

The 3 pregos: Mere-7 months; Meagan-5 months (right Meg?); Julie-2 months.

That's all for now...see you in another two months...unless Katy J. gets pregnant. :)

Christmas Break = "Guitar Hero World Tour" Fest 2008

2009-01-04T19:48:00.000-08:00

Enough said.

Christmas Extravaganza

2008-12-28T20:44:00.000-08:00

Whew! What a week! I hope everyone had a great Christmas. Ours was fab. We spent Christmas Eve with my family. Christmas Eve has always been my family's big thing: my mom makes a big dinner and we open all our presents that night and Santa would come in the morning. Now that Santa doesn't make it our way anymore, we still open all our presents on Christmas Eve and continue with the tradition. It's getting more fun each year now that there are little kids running around--very chaotic but I just love all the noise. SO fun. I love this time of the year!

Aimie's youngest, Avery, is so stinkin' cute. She loves to pet Scootie and call him 'doggy' but it sounds like 'duggy.' She pets him and says "Ohhh...tooooot." (cute.)

My mom gives us 3 girls all the same things so that we each have one and she always does awesome. She usually gives us girly things/decorations for our houses and this year, she didn't disappoint. My favorite was this Santa that she made. She made all 3 of us one and one for herself. She is so talented. I'm afraid I didn't inherit that trait from her. I'm a bit worried...

Larren modeling his new jacket I bought him. He is SOOO easy to shop for but he says he can't say the same about me. What?! Clothes and shoes! And purses! And jewelry! So easy!

I love this picture. Every year, my parents give us money for Christmas as they have decided that it's easier to give us money and have us buy us what we want. This year, they psyched us out and gave us empty envelopes and said it's because of the economy. They said they were joking...but I am giving my sad face. (Also...I don't normally wear a million necklaces and bracelets, but Aimie and my mom hooked me up with the cutest jewelry for Christmas so I had to have everything on.) My mom gave us girls these necklaces with charms on them and mine and Aimie's had Eiffel Towers on them in memory of our Europe trip in October. I thought that was so cute.

Aimie got me the CUTEST little bracelet with all these little purse charms that open. She knows of my obsession for purses. She also gave me the softest blanket and a cute little Paris sign for our office.

Christmas Day, we packed up and headed over to Aimie's on our way up to Logan to see Larren's family. We had crepes with Aimie and Jodie and the girls and watched them open their presents. Santa definitely still comes to their house! :)

Larren's family has a fun tradition of a crab and chicken alfredo dinner so we made it in time for that and to open presents. They also read a different Christmas story each year and play board/card games together so those are some fun things that I've loved incorporating into our traditions. Here we are in our Christmas hoodies we gave each other. Scootie did NOT get one as Larren doesn't allow me to dress him.

Happy Holidays...on to New Year's!

Slack Attack

2008-12-12T22:51:00.000-08:00

I'm a little behind on my posts...

So my birthday was the day after Thanksgiving. Thanks to everyone who called, texted, emailed, and hung out with me! It was a great birthday and I always try to stretch it out as much as possible. :) I feel like most people hate or don't care about their birthdays while I am the TOTAL opposite.

Birthday morning, I slept in a bit and then Larren and I braved the Black Friday crowds and did a little shopping. I had been a shopoholic the weeks leading up to my birthday, so I was actually pretty tame that day even though Larren said I could buy whatever...but I was VERY good. Then, Aimie and Jodie and the kids met up with us at Biaggi's at the Gateway for dinner, and then we rode Trax to Temple Square. I just love all the lights and have spent many birthdays there. It was cold but we thought it would be a good idea beating the snow...little did we know it would be halfway through December and we still wouldn't have any, but oh well. It was so much fun. Larren and I love hanging out with them and always have a great time.

Larren got me a new camera for my birthday...so he had a fun time playing photographer for the night since our old one was ridiculous.

Avery stayed at home with my mom and dad since it was too cold and late for her. Jodie's neice, Ryree, came along with us.

Beautiful! We got married in this temple and it has always been my all-time favorite temple. I knew I wanted to get married there someday and just LOVED going there at Christmas. The lights at Christmas and the feeling I get when I'm there only amplify how much I love it.

The day after my birthday, I met up with Julie, Mere, Katie and Pam at Los Hermanos (highschool flashbacks!) for lunch. We had a way fun time catching up, as always, and again-I'm sure our waiter thought we were crazy and soooo loud, but whatev. Isn't Mere so cute prego??

This pic is not flattering, and although it's just of me, I have to include it because I can admit it's funny. The waiters sang to me for my birthday, and in true Amberly fashion, I loved every second of it, but my face was still on fire and I couldn't look at them when they were singing.

After I got home, we headed up to Logan and spent a few days with Larren's family. We had a great time with the whole clan. We were even able to catch an Aggie basketball game (my fave), which they won, of course.

It was a great holiday break and a fabulous birthday. Thanks to everyone! I wonder if I'll ever hate my birthday...maybe the big 3-0....

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T22:13:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! I hope everyone's was as great as ours. We were able to be with my family this year. Larren and I have been together 5 years now, and I've only spent 2 Thanksgivings with my family that I can remember--my mom had to work in the past. It was so much fun. Sometimes my birthday falls on Thanksgiving, but if not, it is always close. Since it's tomorrow, and apparently I 'guilted' my mom into showing me some b-day love, she got me a cake and everyone sang happy birthday to me. You all know I love the spotlight and I'll be the first to admit it, so of course I loved it.

Also, I love my mom to death, but she hates pictures--being in them, that is. So as far as yearly family photos go...we don't take them. (P.S. Meredith, I am working on her!) So when I can, I like to take one of us all. Thank you self-timer. Now that there are grandkids, it's hard! They are all over the place. This was our second attempt and Avery still wants to be on the move. Little Miss Busy Body.

Here is one of me, Addi, and Zoey. I love these girls to pieces! They never shy away from any photo opp, so I know I can always count on them!

All in all, it was a great holiday and it reminds me of how thankful I am to live so close to my family. They are the most important people to me in my life and I'm thankful I was born to such great parents and have an awesome relationship with my sisters, brother-in-law, nieces and nephew. Larren and I love you guys!

i need help...

2008-11-22T02:25:00.000-08:00

So...why are some of my pics on the right hand side big, and some are little? I am uploading them from the same place...?

Totally belated Happy Halloween!

2008-11-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

Hey Amberly, Halloween was 2 weeks ago! Yeah, I know...whatev...

Here are how the festivities went down:

The night before, we carved pumpkins at Aimie and Jodie's house. My pumpkin is the cute Tinkerbell. Aimie was on fire and carved Jack, the freehand "U" (they are die hard fans) and the "boo." Jodie carved Scooby Doo. I regret to inform you that Larren's did not make the porch pic, although it was on there when we drove away...mysterious. His stencil was a bunch of bats, and then turned into some freaky pumpkin face that looked like pumpkin roadkill. I am not aware of the whereabouts of that pumpkin as we speak. This kind of happens...his pumpkins don't turn out and then they just become the rejects that no one likes to look at, or they disappear. It's sad. But next year is his year, I can feel it!

Halloween at Omniture is freaking crazy. They go all out and every department decorates and everyone dresses up. The day is full of activities, and then from 3-5, families come and walk through both buildings and trick-or-treat. It's insane and this year, you had to have a wrist band to even get in. I'm talking MASSES of people. Our department's theme was Super/action heroes and we decided to go with Austin Powers. I was NOT about to dress as Felicity Shagwell or Foxxy Cleopatra once I saw their outfits, so I decided that a 60s go-go dancer was just fine and I'd look like I fit with the theme okay. My mom ratted my hair SO big (she wanted to go bigger but I told her to step away from the comb.) So many people asked me if it was my real hair. Uh, yeah...?

Everyone got what I was but there was one guy...I almost peed my pants laughin when he said--"Hey, you're a B-52! What an awesome idea!" Next year...

This is me just casually hanging out on the streets of London; about to make a call. (Except I heard that you should NEVER actually use these if you are ever in London because they're not phone booths, they're bathrooms. I totally just saved you from the grossest experience ever, right?)

Here I am in Austin's Love Pad. It was kind of funny when we were putting this together...we didn't really think about the implications of what the Love Pad is until it was already done...I just laughed because most people loved it but I'm sure there were a few moms bringing their children through that were like--WTF. We also would strategically place pillows in front of the screen on a few key parts. Anyway, we had a bubble machine going as well as a monitor playing the movie and theme music playing as people walked through.

Here's my team. L-R: Scott as No. 2; Ashish as a shark with frickin' laser beams attached to its head, Matt as GoldMember, Chris as Dr. Evil, me, and Zac as Austin. Yeah baby!

Aimie brought the girls, or should I say--Addi as a scary witch and Zoey as Shar Pei from High School Musical. Avery was Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz but she wasn't feeling well and was at home with Jodie (who was Emo; check out their blog for some good pics of Jodie with eyeliner and skin tight pants!) My mom also brought Crew, who was the cutest little monkey.

Hanging out in the Love Pad. We had a fun time but I'm glad it's over! It's a lot of work...now to start planning for next year...

DEPRESSION!

2008-11-07T23:38:00.000-08:00

My life could be over. No, not because Obama won. No, not because of the economy. Focus. It's because...get ready for it...LIPSTICK JUNGLE HAS MOVED TO FRIDAY NIGHTS. Do you know what this means people?! It's only a matter of time before my beloved semi-scandalous show is cancelled, since apparently, Friday nights are referred to as "The Graveyard" for about-to-be-cancelled shows.

I know that almost none of you watch this show...except my good friend and style guru, LT (are you almost in tears, TOO???)...but maybe if you just turn your TVs to NBC on Fridays at 9, even if you're not watching, we will fool The Man and Lipstick will survive.

Sigh...I'm reading postings on fansites to see if others are as sad as me. I'm sure that you are not suprised to discover that I am not alone in my endeavors to save Lipstick. Eskimo 913 says: PLEASE DO NOT CANCEL THIS SHOW! IT IS MY FAVORITE SHOW AND THE ONLY ONE THAT I TIVO! PLEASE PLEASE DO NOT LET IT GO! (He/She is obviously yelling, as this is all in caps.) And KeepJungle (clever, right?) says: I hope that this show DOES NOT get cancelled!!! It is hard to wait each week to watch a new episode!!!! I love the show!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (Look at all those exclamation points! She/he is freaking out as well.)

Larren is trying to be supportive. I called him yesterday to tell him the news. Do you know what he said? "That doesn't mean it's going to be cancelled. Lots of popular shows make it on Fridays." Me: "Really? Like what?" Larren: "Stargate SG1 ran for 10 years on Fridays!"

Stargate? Well...now I feel better!

Tag team back again....

2008-10-25T06:33:00.000-07:00

Bonjour! So we are back from our travels, and boy, are we beat! As I write this at 7 a.m. on a Saturday morning, I have already been up since 5:45. I am tired by 8 p.m., asleep by 9, and up by 5:30 the last few days! Trying to reset our clocks...

We had a blast! We got home Tuesday and my suitcase is still not unpacked and it looks like a tornado has hit my side of the room. It's a mess. I'm just SO tired and had to go right back to work, so I've been putting it off. I also got sick the day before we left. It started as a small cold...but it was not fun with 17 hours of flying spread over 27 hours on 3 flights and now I am slightly miserable and it's a full blown chest/head cold. But don't worry--that is not the only thing I brought home with me. Besides Larren's Italian ties and my 5 knock-off purses (i KNOW!)...we have some awesome pics!

I have so many pics to post, but we discovered how much we hate our camera while on our trip, so some pics are on my parents camera and some on Aimie's. I will wait until I have them all so I can post the best ones.

I missed blogging but guess what? We totally had internet so I kept up on everyone's blogs and was a faithful blog stalker. I am so proud of myself.

Okay, that's all for now. Stay tuned!

P.S. This picture...doesn't Larren look so intense? SO funny...I, on the other hand, was trying so hard not to laugh, as a stranger was taking this pic and I think he was caught off guard when Larren grabbed my leg. HA!

blog-o lame-o

2008-10-10T13:36:00.000-07:00

I know our blog is very lame lately, but we have been busy getting ready for our trip tomorrow. I will post pics and updates when we get back! Ciao!

I heart mom jeans

2008-09-24T22:27:00.000-07:00

The other night, I was putting on "Fashion Show" as Larren calls it. This is when I get frustrated with all my clothes and decide to pull out stuff that hasn't been in the rotation for awhile and try it all on--just to make myself feel better that I still have plenty of clothes that are still cute on me and still fit, and then I show Larren and make him give me his "honest" opinion. (For the record, Larren used to make fun of me for Fashion Show...but guess who does it now, too? Hmmm...interesting turn of events...).

For some reason, we hold on to a few pairs of clothes that we call 'camping clothes.' Why we do this is a complete mystery to me, as we have only been camping once the entire time we've been married, which was only the second time I've ever been (the first time was in Lake Powell, and that was heaven, so that didn't count.). Also, as you all know, I am not a camping girl. Campfire in the mountains...check. Roasting marshmallows...check. Tinfoil dinner...check. Bugs...no thanks. Sleeping in the mountains...are you kidding me? I want to live to see tomorrow, and neither the bear or the scary killer in the woods are going to take that away from me. But...I digress....

So...I'm trying on a pair of jeans that are too big for me that have made the 'camping' pile --since apparently I only think you can wear outdated/ugly/too big clothing while camping-- and show them to Larren. He immediately starts laughing and says, "Oh my gosh, you have MOM Jeans!" I'm like, "What are you talking about? These are from highschool and they are Abercrombie & Fitch...they were very in style!" and he's like, "Go look at your butt in the mirror and the cut of those jeans...they are MOM jeans! You wore Mom Jeans in high school!" Me, wearing MJs? Say it isn't so! "No way, they are just too big now, that's all!" I said, running to the mirror.

While I did look in the mirror and did NOT like the caboose that looked back at me...I am left with several questions:

1. A&F wouldn't be caught making MJ's...or would they?
2. I pretty much dress Larren and he's pretty oblivious to style, bless his heart. So how does he know what MJs are? Are they that bad that even he would notice?
3. If this ridiculousness is true, and in fact, said alleged MJs are indeed, MJs....how did my friends allow this travesty to take place? How did you all roam the halls with me...laughing and smiling...knowing that someone among you was committing the ultimate sin...MJs!!!

WOTY

2008-09-23T20:06:00.000-07:00

Somehow, the spawn of Martha Stewart ended up with us all, in good ole SF, and we never even knew it! This WOTY award goes out to someone special--and she knows who she is. I have been harrassing her for months on end, and I think it's time that I publicly recognize her with this prestigious award. Let's just add homemade pie crust maker to seamstress, food storage organizer, scrapbooker, supermom, coupon clipper, food canner, (is that even the correct terminology?) recipe collector, etc.

This person will tell you that she only blogs about the cool stuff she does every once in awhile, and that really--she is nowhere near as perfect as we think she is...but I think it's time that she accepts her true calling in life as a lifetime member of WOTY. Do you know who she is?

Hint: her name rhymes with Baygun Swelson.

Baygun...don't you dare take this lightly. This is the first time this award has ever been given out. Please don't disappoint me--or Martha.

ONNSky

2008-09-15T17:20:00.000-07:00

So I have to put in a plug for my cousin, Skyler, and his band. (My highschool peeps will remember him.) He was in town this weekend playing a show and we were able to hang out for a bit on Sunday. His link is listed in my blog list under Skyler/ONNS. That link will take you to his band's website and you can hear his most recent music and learn more about his band, Oh No Not Stereo, based out of Hollywood, CA.

We had such a good time seeing him while he was here. He is just one of those people that you aren't around often but when you are, it's like you picked up where you left off. He is definitely living his dream and I am very proud of him (how motherly)...he is mucho talented. He has such a great attitude about everything and is just so chill to be around. Larren and I have a great time hanging out with him when we're in the same zipcode, which isn't often.

Love ya, cuz!

On another note...I wore my apron to cook today! YES! (I'm sure Meagan and Katy have worn theirs like a million times since they are WOTY. Duh. That's Wives of the Year.)

Bobblehead to Billy Idol

2008-09-10T22:25:00.000-07:00

Scooter got a haircut at the beginning of the summer. The lady that did it left him with basically no hair on his body, but plenty of hair on his head, making him look like a bobblehead. He was so embarrassed and hid for days. We've been growing it out since we like him a bit shaggier...but in the meantime, his head is way overgrown.

I know he looks scary because it's upclose...but here is our little punk rocker with his mohawk.

Old married people...

2008-08-20T21:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, I get it. Your hints are not subtle. My blog has fallen silent and boring. But seriously...we really haven't been doing much...at least not anything that has been worthy of the blog. One cool thing is that we celebrated our 4 year anniversary! So crazy. It's flown by...but it also seems like we've been together forever, but in a good way.

Larren, as always, was way cute and made it fun. He tried surprising me with flowers at work--but as you all know, I am NEVER surprised. I find out every single surprise ever planned for me. I don't know what it is--people just spill the beans, or I drag it out of people. Flower Patch called my desk and said they had a flower delivery for me but they were lost and needed directions to my office. :) Good one, guys. I got home and Larren had picked up sushi from one of my fave sushi restaurants and had arranged it all on the table, along with a cheesecake, my absolute fave. (And completely fat and calorie free...or so I pretended.) Since it was a Monday and we weren't in the mood for going out, he had also picked up the two movies we saw on our first date: Matchstick Men and Knight's Tale, so we had a good time hanging out in our sweats and watching movies. We decided that our Europe trip in October is our present to eachother. Good job hon!

Here is a special treat for those of you who have been dying to see my pink helmet Larren bought me...we took a ride through AF Canyon a few days before our anniversary while Larren's bro was in town. They say pink is very hardcore...along with a zebra shoulder bag. Very intimidating.

Melting at the Melting Pot

2008-07-27T22:26:00.000-07:00

So everyone probably knows that Syd is moving to Cali for the next year while Jeremy studies Dari. A bunch of us made plans to meet up for dinner at the Melting Pot on Saturday. Sadly, not everyone was able to come because of last minute family stuff, etc. but we had SO MUCH FUN!

Larren and I were going to be up in SLC shopping during the day, and I asked him if he'd just drop me off and go run errands or something while I was eating, and then come back, so we wouldn't have to take two cars. He looked at me like I was crazy. He's like--"Um...no thanks. I know how you are with your friends. You won't be done in under 3 hours, minimum. Social Amb will be on." He was right! True to fashion, we arrived at 6:30 and stayed until 11! Good thing he didn't drive me!

I feel like I see Meagan and Syd all the time now--due to our new domestic skills we've been honing in our sewing classes...not to mention keeping in touch by blogging. But I hadn't see Tiff since graduation (TOO long Tiffany!) so it was great catching up.

Some of the highlights include (of course) blog gossip (I read the comment Syd--laughed my head off), sweating to death (I was seriously so freaking hot! Was it just me?) and our waiter. He heard us talking about this person and that person and so and so's blog; I think he was trying to figure out if we were just crazy, or if all girls were really like that. I let him know that we were in our mid-20s and very mature. He tried not to hang around too much after that.

Thanks for a great night ladies--I am so glad these are happening much more often. We are actually sticking to our monthly committment. Yea for us! See you next month...or sooner...Syd? :)

Attention Mrs. Hansen...

2008-07-17T22:22:00.000-07:00

With the success of the baby slings behind us, we decided to embark on another sewing journey. This time...aprons. Meagan, Katy, Wendi, Sydnee and I were there, ready and willing. (Syd had to leave before the pic was taken). The class started at 7 p.m. and we were there until 11:30!!! Here is the thought process that went through my mind...

7:00: I am so excited! Fabric, friends, and fun!

8:00: Hmmm....I might be doing this for another hour. I should be close to done, right?

9:30: Seriously? I don't even cook!

10:50: It's 10 to 11??? Okay, I guess I'm all about random seams now...whatever holds this sucker together.

11:30: 5 hours to make an apron? I better wear this thing ALL THE TIME! Even while making a Hot Pocket!

I got home, walked in the door and Larren said--"That better be some apron!" And it is! It is way cute...just don't look too close. I seriously got lazy towards the end and started feeling hatred towards my darling apron. We had a really good time and I hope we keep doing fun little projects like this. I'm all about getting together for dinner with the girls to catch up, but it's also fun to do something creative once in awhile! And like Meagan said...even non-cooks need an apron. I can wear it while eating Bajio or something. :) Mrs. Hansen would be proud...I wonder if she'd give me a D+ in sewing now?

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-06T16:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend, we headed up to Logan to celebrate the 4th of July with Larren's family. Thursday night, we watched the fireworks they set off at the stadium from OUTSIDE the stadium (way better than dealing with the crowds INSIDE). I LOVE fireworks so this was fun.

Friday, the actual 4th, I met up with college BFF's Dewey and Lawlor (Kristina and Katie) at our old hangout, Chili's. (We missed you, Lor.) It was so great to see them...they each recently had baby girls and they are back to being skinny and cute as ever. I'm not jealous...:) We commented on how now that we're blogging, we feel like we actually do 'talk' to eachother and know what's going on. Even though we don't see eachother every day or talk on the phone, I still feel like we're in better touch than ever and it's so much fun to be up-to-date on the happenings in our lives. We had some great times in college...love those girls!

That night, we drove up to Inspiration Point, which you get to by going through Sardine Canyon and turing off in Mantua. It took FOREVER to get to the top, but it was SO awesome once we got up there. You're able to see Cache Valley, Ogden, SLC, etc. and we were able to watch a handful of firework shows from way up there in all the different cities. I included a pic of the overlook before the sunset that I stole from Larren's sister's blog. (Thanks Rach!)

The drive up there was so much fun, because Larren and I decided we wanted to drive the whole way in the bed of Craig's (Larren's bro) truck. We had a couple Love Sacs back there and some blankets...and it was cozy. Scooter didn't know what to think of it on the ride up (notice where he is laying in the pic I included) but eventually, on the ride down, he snuggled up under the blankets and went to sleep.

Saturday was the car show, where not only do you mingle with Logan's finest (picture Walmart but outside and 105 degrees) but I found my dream car, a red '69 Chevelle. It was for sale! We almost bought it...but decided $85k was a little too much for us. Yeah right...dream on. I don't remember what year the one is that Larren and I are in front of, but that one was also pretty sweet. I decided I was born in the wrong decade...but oh well. Later that night was the Cruise-In, where they block off Main Street and all the old cars drive up and down the road. It sounds so WT but it was way fun. I snapped a pic of the dream car as it drove away with my heart. Someday...

We ended the night with a BBQ at Larren's family's house. It was a great time and definitely one of my favorite holidays! Happy 4th!

The Worst Birthday EVER

2008-06-29T21:07:00.000-07:00

How did I end up at the spa on Larren's birthday, pampering myself...and him at home in bed? Read on my friend...

Friday was Larren's golden birthday--27 on the 27th. I had planned a few surprises and we had planned to take all of Friday off work.

Friday morning, WAY early--like 4 a.m. or something, Scooter randomly had to go to the bathroom, so Larren woke up to take him out. He walked downstairs and a few minutes later, I heard a loud crash. I ran downstairs and Larren was stumbling around and had knocked over a lamp and a bunch of wrought iron candle holders. He was like, "I'm so dizzy...I can't even stand up!" so he went back upstairs and I got Scooter and we went back to sleep. At about 10 a.m. when we decided to roll out of bed, Larren got up and immediately started stumbling all over the place and saying how dizzy he was. Then he beelined to the bathroom and dry heaved for like 5 minutes. At this point I'm thinking, he has the flu.

Larren LOVES massages so I had planned for him to get a massage and for me to get a facial at the same time that day. I didn't want to tell him the surprise, so I was trying to gauge how well he felt. He said that he didn't feel like he had the flu, but he was extremely dizzy when he stood up and his head was spinning, which made him nauseous. We decided to wait a few hours and see if it passed...it didn't. So...I had to tell him what I had planned and ask him if he wanted me to call and cancel it. He was way bummed and said that there was no way he could leave...but he wanted me to go still. Then when I got back, and hopefully after he'd been able to rest, we'd head out for dinner at Outback and a movie. He had been so excited all day for that.

So there I am...at the spa...getting my facial. I already feel guilty that I'm there before the facial lady drags me over to the makeup counter to put some of their makeup on me. Uh-oh. They sell Jane Iredell. I'm in trouble. It's like the best makeup--all mineral based or something--and not cheap...and I happen to love it. Well...it IS Larren's birthday...but I do need some more powder. Besides...Larren would want me to have it, right? I justify...

So two hours, new face, new powder...and less $$ later, I head home to pick up Larren. He tries to get up again, only to have the morning's routine repeated. It was obvious to me that he was going nowhere for the night. I ended up calling in Chili's to go...and we ate dinner and watched The Bucket List in bed because he couldn't even stand up. He was so depressed.

Saturday was exactly the same...all day in bed except for a quick trip to the doctor, where they diagnosed him with labrynthitis. It's a virus that you get from a bacterial infection, allergy, etc. Basically--a part of his inner ear is inflamed, which controls the balance of his body...which is now all thrown off and causing dizziness and unbalance. He has been complaining about earaches since he got back from his motorcycle trip (driving through all the altitude changes) so we think it started then. He got some pills and spent the rest of the day in bed.

To top it all off...he had to fly to San Francisco tonight for work tomorrow. He can't drive, obviously, so I had to drive him to the airport and he still doesn't feel 100%. I'm worried at what the plane's air pressure will do to his ear but he had a huge meeting tomorrow and couldn't cancel. He is meeting up with another co-worker in SF so they will shuttle him around...but isn't that so sad? I feel so bad for him...he had the worst birthday and weekend ever. I was excited to post about our fun weekend and put some pics up of the celebration...but we bascially wore PJs all weekend and lived in our bed.

Anyway...that's my (long and sad) story of Larren's birthday weekend...but we are going to Logan next weekend for the 4th of July, and have some fun things planned, so we're going to pretend it's his birthday revisited. Hopefully we'll have a better update and fun pics to show!

Alpine Coaster!

2008-06-24T19:13:00.000-07:00

This weekend, my sister and her family invited us to meet up with them in Park City for the day. Larren and I were already trying to decide on a fun place to ride the motorcycle for the day, so we were totally in. (We are seriously motorcycle nerds...I know...kind of embarrassing. Don't worry...I'm not going to show up in chaps.)

The drive up Provo Canyon was pretty and it's a different feeling on a motorcycle...kind of scary because you're so exposed, but also really cool because you're outside enjoying the sunshine and the wind is blowing on you...kind of something I'm not used to but like. (Except we probably smell like outside at the end...and I HATE that smell...and I have helmet head so I always bring a hat with me to put on when I take my helmet off...but moving on...)

We shopped at the outlets, of course, and rode the Alpine Coaster. It was way fun--it's like your own personal roller coaster car. These are the pics from the ride up. Zoey wanted to ride with me and Addi rode with Larren. You get in and it takes you to the very top of the mountain. It's slow going up and it's cool to look at the scenery...it was a pretty day and SO hot. You get to the top and there's an attendant that says "Release your brakes all the way!" And then you just FLY down the mountain and go around all these loops and turns so freaking fast. I have to admit that at times I thought we were seriously going to fly off the track...kind of scary but I had to pretend that I was fine for Zoey. Zoey and I were crying from laughing by the time we got done and she's like, "Can we do that again?" SO FUN!

Happy Father's Day!

2008-06-16T22:12:00.001-07:00

Sunday was obviously Father's Day and this post is a little late, but I wanted to tell my dad Happy Father's Day anyway! He is such a great guy and would do anything for his family...especially now that he's retired...HA! (basement, crown molding, backyard...we've employed him for at least the next 5 years). He is so funny and always happy, and loves to spend time with all of us.

We had a lot of fun...we ate dinner together and then hung out at my parent's house. My dad has always loved golf and when they built their new house, he made sure he had a small putting green. I've never been a fan except for driving the cart or just playing mini golf, but he was determined to teach me the correct way to swing. Larren even got in on the action and he absolutely hates golf...by the end we were semi-pro and kind of liking it. I made sure to include a pic of him so he'll believe it later.

Avery (Aimie and Jodie's youngest) was so cute...she also got in on the private lessons, and made a good caddy, collecting the golf balls after we'd finished our round...we had a good time and I love days like that with my family!

Move over, Martha!

2008-06-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars, folks. June 13, 2008 (oddly, Friday the 13th) was the day I gave Martha Stewart a run for her money...okay, not really, but great effort on my part, if I do say so myself.

My mom frequents this cute little quilt/fabric shop in AF that I saw has classes, and one of them was for the trendy baby slings I'm seeing everywhere (Syd!). I decided it would be kind of fun, and suckered Meagan, Katy, and Meagan's mom and sis, Judith and Wendi, to come along. It was so much fun!

Katy and I had massive anxiety the minute we had to fold our fabric in a certain way before cutting...but our instructor, Suzanne, was great. She never made me feel nervous or inferior and kept telling us that we were fine and everything looked great. We did sweat to death in that tiny attic room of the quilt shop (see beautiful pictures above...I am shiny face galore and had already sweat half my face off) and I believe Katy mentioned that she had "pit" to Suzanne...so funny! I don't think she knew what to say to that...

I told Suzanne she hasn't seen the last of us...we are planning on doing this again soon...we decided no more outings revolved around restaurants--we are now planning 'crafty' outings. Above is the 3 of us modeling our slings with our "babies" (they are our purses...notice mine is overly large, as usual). Thanks so much for coming with me...I had a blast with you guys! While sewing! Something that holds a human! Who knew?

Oh yeah...since Katy modeled hers with Ellie, I had to try mine out with my "baby" today. Scooter liked it...he actually relaxed and hung out in it for quite awhile!

WARNING: parents, in-laws, hopeful sisters-in-law: sewing a baby sling is not a hint, admission, announcement, nor future plan. It was simply something fun to make...don't get any ideas!

John McCain hearts Lifetime: Television for Women

2008-06-09T14:56:00.000-07:00

Picture it: Sunday, June 8th. Having actually gone to all 3 hours of church (yea us), Larren decided he needed to take a nap. I wasn't tired at all, but bored out of my mind. Where does a woman turn to in her time of need? I began to get depressed. Then...light at the end of the tunnel. I knew there was one friend that would be there for me. I flipped on Lifetime: Television for Women.

Luckily, they had just what I needed: a Lifetime original movie to zone out to and watch simultaneously (during commercials) with whatever crap was replaying for the 5th time on MTV. (I can't stop THAT addiction. Don't even try.) I'm not sure if any of you watch Army Wives, but apparently it's a show that is pretty popular amongst RLV (Regular Lifetime Viewers). If you know Lifetime, and I'm sure 99% of you reading this won't admit it, but you DO know it, you know that they cut to commercials every 30 seconds. So really, you only watch like 30 minutes of movie and 1.5 hours of commercials. But...I digress. Every 30 seconds, I'd see the promo reminding me that Season 2 of Army Wives was beginning right after my sap movie. Annoying, yes, but thanks for the info.

Just when I thought it couldn't get any worse...John McCain flashes on my screen. Wait-what...what is HE doing here? Well, he must be here for election biz, right? Wrong, my friend. So wrong. No...John was there for one reason, and one reason only: "Army Wives is a great show. I know; Cindy makes me watch it with her. Stay tuned for the debut tonight, only on Lifetime."

Johnny, Johnny, Johnny...are you for real? What has made you stoop to this level? We know you don't watch Army Wives! No one does! And I KNOW you were reading the queue cards...I saw your beady little eyes flicking back and forth!

You, too, can be chic like Syd Adams!

2008-05-25T15:30:00.000-07:00

So...I am still loving Syd's baby sling she had at dinner last week. I was at this little quilt/sew shop with my mom and older sis the other day in AF and saw that they are holding a class to teach how to make these things. The class is $12 and it's on Wednesday...which is a little short notice. I asked the lady if she re-teaches them, and she said if a group of 4 or more requests it, she'll teach it on-demand. Is anyone interested? That might be kind of fun...our own private sewing lesson for such a fashionable item...copyright Syd Adams 2008. The lady will measure you to your specifications and everything, and you pick out your own fabric...I thought it would come in handy for when I eventually someday maybe have kids, so if anyone else is interested...I need a few more peeps!

Hit the Road Jack!

2008-05-18T21:03:00.001-07:00

Well, they did it...Larren and his brother, Craig, began their 2,500 mile (roundtrip) bike journey today. This is them right before they left. (Please ignore construction city we're currently living in.) Notice Craig trying to look Hard A...chaps, bandana, and zero smile. And then there's my cute Larren--all smiles. He is so excited! Yes...I did cry when he left...well, sobbed is more like it, but I am VERY excited for them and a little jealous. I told Larren that I want to start going on 'mini trips' when he gets back. How fun would that be just to take a day trip somewhere on the open road with your husband? I don't think I could handle the kind of trip they left on today...and no one else does, either. They are planning on the trip taking about 10 days, and my brother-in-law, Jodie, has been teasing Larren and telling him he's crazy. He said, "See you on Wednesday!" I told Jodie that they WILL make it the full journey...just to spite everyone for telling them they won't! But they don't care--they've heard it all from everybody and are determined to make it. Larren called and they just made it to Colorado. He's going to be taking pics and e-mailing them to me so I can update the blog. He said I should find some little widget that shows where he's at on a daily basis--like a "Where is Larren?" and I said, "Well, I WOULD, if I knew how to freaking blog! I can't even change my dang template!" (I'm still ticked about that, btw. I told Larren that when he gets back, he needs to study up on blogging so that he can change my stupid template and add some cool little widgets, so stay tuned.)

Anyway, I will keep everyone posted on his whereabouts...hopefully he'll be sending some cool pics along the way (minus Kansas) and I will post them! Good luck again to them both; please be careful and have fun! Scooter says hi. Love you!

CLUB!

2008-05-16T22:24:00.000-07:00

This is a lame update...but I've been scolded that my last post is over 2 weeks old. So...this is what you're getting...

Yes, I'm posting at 11:30 on a Friday night....but I HAVE been out on 'the town' tonight. I met up with Mere, Syd, Katie, Katy, and Meagan in Orem at California Pizza Kitchen. We had a great time and pretty much closed the mall down talking all night. We eventually started getting the stink eye from Nordstrom associates so we made our way outside and then talked for another half hour, just standing outside Nordstrom's!

Highlights include:
*Syd and her chic baby sling filled with flour...okay, it was darling Greta.
*Mere's first kiss re-visited.
*Regrettable smooches? Meet Amberly, our big winner!
*Eating all our pizza and not feeling bad about it.
*The phrase, "Wait, who are we talking about? WHO is THAT?"
*"Could you turn the heat up...or turn the air down?"
*"Did you hear?" "Duh. I read it on their blog!"

I mentioned "CLUB" tonight...but I'm going to e-mail you all, rather than post on the blog...I don't have Syd's e-mail though...

Blog templates-wtf?

2008-05-04T10:30:00.001-07:00

I am ready to scream! How do you change your stupid template? I have been trying for an hour and I'm starting to feel really sub par in the blogging world. I found some cute templates on Suck My Lolly (horrible, horrible name). I download them and make the code changes or whatev, and then when I try to customize my blog, I get some message telling me I have to upgrade my template and will lose all changes. There's no option for me to even save the new one! Seriously...is blogging this hard or is it just me...

San Francisco Treat

2008-04-29T21:24:00.000-07:00

Larren was in LA for work last week, and was going to be in San Fran for work this week. Rather than have him come home during the weekend, we decided it would be fun for me to fly out to San Fran and meet him in between trips. We had a way fun time. We found this really cool hotel a stone's throw away from Union Square. It was like an old restored apartment building totally redecorated but still with that old time feel with hardwood floors, creaky stairs, and the slowest elevator in the world that only held 4 people MAX. (Seriously?)

Friday night we got in late, so we went to dinner and explored. It was cool staying so close to Union Square because we pretty much were surrounded by the hustle and bustle the whole time...I remember telling Larren we were NOT going to be able to sleep through all the noise on the street, but we were exhausted every night and sacked out the second we hit our pillows.

Saturday we got up early because I had major plans involving some serious shopping. Anyone who knows me knows I have an obsession with H&M, and of course Utah doesn't have one. Well, it doesn't matter because I am in the biggest fight with them right now--I don't know what their designers are thinking. I couldn't find one thing I liked. Larren was like--"What happened? You've been counting down!" Of course I'll give them another chance....but they better get their act in gear. :) Next, it was off to Chinatown where we pretty much browsed. They had some cool stuff but we're really not into the whole asian-theme decoration wise, so we didn't buy anything.

We then had the brilliant idea to walk from Union Square to Pier 39...which wouldn't be a big deal if it wasn't UPHILL! No worries...I'm sure everyone has to stop every block to wipe the sweat off their brow and take a breather, right? (Have you SEEN some of those SF streets?) Next it was off to Scoma's, which we'd heard was the best seafood. Let me preface this story by saying I have always told everyone and myself that I love seafood. I discovered on this trip that I have been living a lie for years...I HATE IT. We got there and all I wanted was a cheeseburger, but I was like, "Everyone is going to ask me what I had at this famous place, and I CANNOT say I had a flipping cheeseburger, even though I'm sure it's fabulous at $17." So I ordered ahi tuna, which I've had before. It came out smothered in all this sauce and...seared (so compeletely raw middle.) I took one bite and died. Even Larren was like-that sucks so bad. I was so embarrassed and didn't want to send it back because I'm just not like that...so we wrapped up half of it and put it in my purse and pretended I ate it! So I left Scoma's with a new take on life; I'm a seafood hater and all I really have ever liked is shrimp and the occasional halibut. I'm sorry to everyone for lying all these years.

Next it was off to Alcatraz Island for the night tour. That was pretty interesting; Larren and I like historical things like that so we enjoyed it and I included a pic of Larren cheesing it up in front of the cells, and also one that I thought was pretty cool--it's the view of SF from a little peephole within the prison. After that, I was still so disappointed about Scoma's that I decided I was eating at a chain and I didn't care what anyone said...so we ended up at Bubba Gump's where I ordered...shrimp and fries. :) It was cooked and fabulous. THEN...I had a little 'celebrity' sighting...Irene from Real World Seattle walked RIGHT BY me in front of our hotel. I totally forgot her name, and once I remembered, I thought she was too far to yell, "Irene! Steven should NOT have slapped you! How is your lyme disease?"

Sunday, we picked up Larren's rental car he needed for the week and drove across the Golden Gate Bridge. We had lunch in Sausalito at a little deli, and then drove back to SF and down Lombard Street before Larren had to drop me off at the airport.

It was a busy weekend but we had a lot of fun. One thing I do realize when on vacation is that there are some really cool cities/countries out there that are great to visit, but it also makes me realize how much I love our little life in Utah and how nice it is to be home!

Jim Nielsen retired? I don't think so!

2008-04-21T19:49:00.000-07:00

Have I really gotten to this point of my life--blogging about crown molding? I guess while everyone else blogs about their cute children and their sayings, etc., I will blog about something as boring (or so you think) as crown molding.

My awesome dad, who is now retired, has been hired by the Kingsford home to spiff it up. First item on the docket--crown molding. Why in the world we didn't pay to have this upgrade added before we moved in 7 months ago, I don't know. I think it's because we felt like we were going upgrade crazy. My dad put it up in the kitchen, front and living room, our bedroom, and office. It looks so awesome! I'm including some pics because I think he did a great job and I wanted to show those who've seen my house the finished project. I especially love the kitchen because it goes up to a point in the high ceiling, rather than just being a straight line.

I just want to say thanks to him for being so handy and so great. I had a cute pic of him hard at work (an action shot, if you will) but I don't know what happened during the synching of my camera. Next on Jim's docket...the basement! Not to mention a few other items I've since added to the list: fence, cement pad in the back...isn't retirement great?

Larren...Wildhog at Heart?

2008-04-05T19:55:00.000-07:00

Today was "Motorcycle Day," as Larren has been referring to it. He finally bought his brother's motorcycle...he's been talking about doing it for MONTHS and today was the day. We drove up to Logan to pick it up and the dream is now reality. He's been counting down for weeks, like it's his birthday. To commemorate the occassion, I had Cookies by Design make him a motorcycle cookie to celebrate (lame, I know...but you should have SEEN his excitement! Hello...what's Motorcycle Day without a motorcycle cookie?? Don't mind the missing wheel...Larren ate it before I caught him.)

Larren and his brother, Craig, have planned a motorcycle trip in May out to their missions. Larren served in St. Louis and Craig served in Arkansas, so those are their main destinations but they've planned a pretty cool route to see some awesome sights on the way. They'll be gone for about 10 days and to get geared up...they've both decided not to shave until then. Yea...how fabulous... :)

I'm very excited for him and hope that I don't regret giving him the okay in getting the motorcycle...he said he's buying me a pink helmet so I guess I'll be okay with it...at least I can be stylish while riding on the back...

2008-04-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

You Are Ariel!

Headstrong and fiesty. You have a mind of your own that's full of romantic dreams about the world around you. Exploring exotic places is your ultimate dream, and although you can be a little naive you'll realize that there is something to be gained from your family's wisdom.

Which Disney Princess Are You?

BFFs!

2008-03-30T20:00:00.000-07:00

Okay...I am still alive...just didn't have anything to blog about in our mellow lives lately! This week, though, we played "babysitter." My sister, Aimie, and her 3 girls wore Jodie down and they got this adorable Yorkie they named Mocha. He is the cutest thing you've ever seen and just tiny. They went out of town for a few days and he stayed with us. Being a new puppy he slept non-stop (when he wasn't chasing Scooter) and he elected Larren as his new BFF. They played halo together, ate together, and napped together. It really was quite the love affair that came to a sad end today when the Mattinsons returned home. I told Larren he can still visit and that Mocha will always hold a special place in his little doggy heart for him. Here is a shot I got of them during a cuddle fest while passed out on the LoveSac.

Going Private...

2008-03-19T22:06:00.000-07:00

So with all the talk about going private, I started getting a little worried. And, although we're not going private (for now) because I think it takes the fun out of blogging, I've taken precautions:

1. We changed our blog name. Hopefully you all know that and are reading this now. It's larrenandamberly.blogspot.com
2. I took off all mentions of our last name.
3. I took off all your guys' last names too.

I know most of you have thought about going private, and that's totally fine if you want to, just make sure we are invited to still blog stalk you. :)

The Red, White, and Guilty

2008-03-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

So Larren randomly got an envelope in the mail a few months ago from the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, a non-profit organization running entirely off of donations. The envelope contained address labels all made out with Larren's name and mentioned that a small donation would be nice. It tugged at his heart so he sent them like $20 or something. Hello! They're veterans....it's the least we (okay, he) could do.

Well, they must have known that they've got him where they want him because a few weeks ago, they sent him ANOTHER envelope of address labels. I remember him being stressed at that package and saying--"Do I just keep sending money? They're veterans! Of foreign wars!" For some reason or another, we didn't send more money and forgot all about it. Heartless, I know--but entirely accidental.

What arrives today? If you said address labels, you're totally wrong. You should've known that it was a huge envelope of blank b-day cards, thinking of you cards, thank you cards, and note pads--specifically sent to Larren for his convenient use...and all from the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States. Larren ran into the office and said "What do I do? They sent me more stuff! They just keep sending it!" I laughed and said--"I'm blogging about this!" What a dilemma he is in...on one hand--he could possibly be stuck donating for the rest of his life to escape the guilt of turning down the VOFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars, people)...and on the other hand--he could give up now before they start sending larger gifts. Either way, he does have a nice, blank 'Thank You' card to send them, expressing his gratitude for their generosity and an address label to put on the envelope. :)

BYOB 08...Ok..it was SFHS Reunion 08

2008-03-15T10:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had our big reunion that has been in the works for a few weeks now, but definitely has been needing to happen for years! Julie was in town and wanted to see everyone, and now due to the blogging age, word travelled fast and we were all able to see friends we haven't seen in years! Like I haven't seen Syd or Joni since graduation...lame-o! But considering we all keep in touch on our blogs now, I feel like I actually have been kept in the loop with most everyone, so that's definitely cool to be keeping in better touch.

Katie was nice enough to have us all meet at her cute house and we all were able to catch up and eat some yummy treats. (Thanks for the recipe Meagan...maybe I will surprise Larren and cook for once this century!) I was definitely enjoying them and joking that Kenny the Killer Trainer was going to sense I was eating bad and call me and seriously two seconds later HE CALLED. We were dying laughing...but he was only calling to cancel on me. (Don't worry Kenny...I didn't indulge too much and I'm going to go work off Meagan's poppy bread and the Reese's eggs now...maybe.)

I cannot even describe the noise level at Katie's...I had a feeling it was going to be pretty chaotic and it was--put a bunch of outgoing girls together under one roof and it was definitely crazy, but fun! It was so awesome to see everyone and next reunion is at my house...but only people with blogs are invited...so Syd and Joni better get on it! How's that for pressure!

Vegas: Gambling, Beatles, and...Danny Bonaduce???

2008-03-11T17:47:00.001-07:00

Well, we escaped Las Vegas, the City of Sin, relatively unscathed...but with a few less dollars than we showed up with (everybody relax..yes, we tempted Lady Luck and gambled a bit...but we remained sober and completely muscle-relaxer free all weekend.)

First of all, the Venetian was beautfiul. It was seriously one of the prettiest hotels I've stayed in...but very misleading. Having been to the real Venice, I can tell you it's not that clean and doesn't smell as nice...but both are fabulous, don't get me wrong.

The first night we went to the Blue Man Group which was pretty cool. They did a lot of random stuff and it was funny--probably wouldn't see it again but I enjoyed it and I'm glad we went. The second night, we met up with Larren's team from work (this was a work trip) at this ritzy restaurant in the Venetian. Guess who didn't get the memo that it was business casual? Ding Ding...me and Larren! Slightly embarrassing being the only couple in jeans, but eh-we got over it. At least we were in pretty nice clothes and not just sloppy t's with flip flops. We'll live. (Although I did obsess about it to Larren for at least the next 24 hours.)

Holy shiz though, the THIRD NIGHT. We saw Cirque du Soleil's Beatles LOVE...and it was probably the all-time best show I've ever seen. I'm combining every play, musical, Vegas show, etc. I've ever been to. You have all got to see it. I told Larren later that I was seriously almost moved to tears a few times because I was just so amazed at all the set designs, songs, acrobats...etc. It was that good. And this is coming from someone who isn't a Beatles fan.

How could the weekend have been any better you ask? How did we end it with a bang? Enter Danny Bonaduce from the Partridge Family, or...Random Celebrity Sighting 08, if you will. He just happened to be amongst those at the LOVE show, and as soon as it was over, Larren and I beelined it down to where he was sitting so I could stalk him on the way out. We filed out RIGHT BEHIND him and I wanted to ask him for a picture so bad. I just kept thinking, "Oh man, this would be so awesome on my blog! " but three things kept me from doing this: 1: the people in front of us had him take a picture with each one of them; 2: I used to watch Breaking Bonaduce on VH1 when it was on, and he is freaking crazy and I wasn't sure if he'd be cool with the picture, or fight me; 3: Larren said he was embarrassed for me that I was one of those crazy celeb stalkers.

All in all, we had a great time but we were ready to go home on Sunday to be in our own house with Scooter. Plus we were out of money. Lady Luck is a hooch.

Tag to anyone who reads this! YES!

2008-03-05T20:52:00.000-08:00

5 things on my list to do today:
1: Omniture Summit 08 at the Grand America (Lance Armstrong was our speaker! Not that I'm into cycling, but I like famous people. Hello, he's dating Ashley Olsen.)
2: Work out
3: Pack for Vegas
4. Read everyone's blogs :)
5. Cook dinner...JUST KIDDING! It was Cafe Rio and I am so over them now. (You were right Laura. It's finally lost it's magic and it's too many calories I have to pay for later with The Devil.)

5 snacks I enjoy:
1: Jerky (sodium schmodium)
2: For some reason, I don't love Reese's peanut butter cups anytime of year EXCEPT when they put out the holiday versions (Easter-peanut butter shaped as an egg; Valentines-heart; X-mas-tree, etc.) They almost TASTE better. It's weird.
3: Chips and salsa (especially from Chili's. I could drink that stuff.)
4: Nacho Cheese Doritos
5: Diet Dr. Pepper

5 Places I've lived: (get ready...I'm very diverse!)
1: Spanish Fork, UT
2: Logan, UT
3: Orem, UT
4: American Fork, UT
5: Eagle Mountain, UT

5 Places I've been:
1: Italy
2: Germany
3: Austria
4: Switzerland
5: NYC

What would I do if I were suddenly made a Billionaire: Quit my job, pay off both family's debts and give them some moolah to spend as they please; build a massive house for me and Larren , donate to some charities, go to the spa and freaking INDULGE, and for sure put some money away for a rainy day.

5 jobs I've had:
1. Jim's Amoco clerk (when life was simple and all I had to worry about was, "Do you want a 32 oz or a 44 oz?" or "Did you have fuel on pump 5?")
2: Waitress at Tony Roma's
3: Sales Associate and then Customer Service Rep at Dillard's
4: HP IPG Specialist
5: Omniture Account Manager

5 Pet Peeves I have:
1: close talkers (Why is this necessary?)
2: wind
3: people who don't signal
4: clients at work that will call me every 10 minutes if I don't answer, but heaven forbid they leave a voicemail.
5: walking on a hard surface floor and feeling little crumbs stick to my foot. Ew. Or to my socks. (Thanks, mom...I'm now a clean freak, too!)

5 Things you didn't know about me:
1: I have a massive phobia of camping toilets...the kind where you can see down into the pit. To this day, the funniest story Larren and I share has to be during our first or second year of marriage when he discovered this phobia first-hand.
2: I was voted "The Most Eligible Bachelorette in the College of Business" at Utah State my junior year. Not 'the smartest' or 'most likely to succeed.' No...basically- 'the most single girl you're not dating!' (I am laughing so hard...the interview...the photoshoot. Good times.)
3: I have always fantasized of being Melanie Griffith in Working Girl. Oh my gosh--all time fave movie; I always told my mom that someday, that would be me. It still could...I'm only 26 and she was at least 30 in that movie!
4: When I was younger, I could cry at the drop of a hat when I saw homeless people. My family used to warn me when we'd go places- "Don't look Amberly...ok, you're good now." I still hate seeing them.
5: I was in a rodeo in college. (Long story...it was a road trip to Arizona with roomies that is captured on film. I'll show you when you're older.)

The latest buzz...

2008-03-04T16:28:00.000-08:00

So...Ju told me to update my blog. Apparently not everyone wants to read last week's post over and over. Here is the latest, although not the most exciting, news:

1. Still seeing Kenny, or as I call him, The Devil. I informed him that one of the exercises he made me do last week was not cool and caused me a few days of lower back pain...I even had to take "a" muscle relaxer (refer to #2 for more info.) He was not at all phased and actually made me do the same exercise last night. That little...(seriously, Kenny, if you EVER find my blog and are reading it now, I really do like you. You are all muscle and no mercy.) OH! And he measured my body fat, which is always fabulous. :) No comment on the results.

2. About the muscle relaxer. Friday I woke up in the morning and seriously COULD NOT stand up for longer than 5 minutes without crazy lower back pain in a muscle I never knew I had. Larren had some leftover muscle relaxers from when he hurt his back awhile ago when we were moving, so he gave me a few and said, "Take 2 when you get to work." Okay, has anyone seen Larren? I'm not petite or anything, but the kid definitely has me by a few lbs. HE takes two. So what do you think two did to ME? Let's just say I was VERY relaxed and definitely caught a few Zs at my desk at work. I even got a ride to lunch as I was in no condition to drive, and I had a very restful night's sleep. Thanks Lar! (He felt bad later...after he stopped laughing.)

3. Larren has been looking at everyone's blogs, and informed me that I "need to get on it." Apparently, he was dazzled by your slideshows, layouts, and music. Help me, people!

4. We are going to Vegas on Thursday! I am so excited. I've been to Vegas so many times, but I realized the other day that I've never actually stayed in a hotel there. I've always either stayed in my parents time share or at friend's homes, so this should be fun. We are staying at the Venetian, and we've got tickets to Blue Man Group and Cirque du Soleil Love. So next week I should have better updates with wild party pics! (Muscle relaxers not included...)

5. SF Reunion 08 scheduled at Katie's. WOOOO! BYOB!*
*Bring Your Own Baby....unless you don't have a baby, like me...in that case...it's a surprise!

Kenny is going to kill me...

2008-02-27T20:46:00.000-08:00

Yes; I am blogging for the THIRD time this week (LT...you should be so proud!). It shouldn't surprise any of you--I generally talk a lot. No surprise. The reason for this blog/rant is that I am going to die. Today was the second day with Kenny, my personal trainer. And it's official--he is trying to kill me slowly and very painfully. Today was only the second day in what will be a very long 'relationship', seeing as how I've committed to seeing him 3 times per week for 6 months. Well...we can cross 2 sessions off the list. Only 70 more to go. And P.S...I'm not telling you all this like-"Hey, look at me, I'm so great, going to a personal trainer." Because, LBH (Let's Be Honest for anyone who doesn't speak Mary McMullen) I'm not going to one because I look like Jillian the Trainer on the Biggest Loser (I just LOVE her...very sassy). But...I digress. The real reason I'm writing is to inform anyone who is looking for me and hasn't seen me in a few days...I am dead at Anytime Fitness in Saratoga Springs and Kenny did it. Larren is probably watching MythBusters on the Discovery Channel so please call him as he will be somewhat worried.

On another topic, is anyone watching Lipstick Jungle on Thursday nights?! Please tell me I'm not alone! I have been waiting for something to fill the void 90210 left in my heart years ago...and I've found it! Don't pretend there isn't at least one of you watching it. I won't judge you; it will totally be our secret. I'm waiting.

About us...

2008-02-26T14:36:00.001-08:00

So, I saw this on Ju's blog and she said anyone who read it is pretty much tagged, so here goes:

How long have you been married? 3 1/2 years

How long did you date? 1 year

Who eats more? I'd like to say Larren but I've been know to give him a run for his money. Sad...so sad.

Who is taller? Larren

Who sings better? He doesn't sing unless it's to his punk music that he listens to OVER AND OVER. I wish this question was 'who dances better?' If you've seen either of us dance, you'd know that although neither one of can dance, Larren's is pure comedy, whereas mine is just sad.

Who is smarter? In English and Math, definitely me. But he is so smart with computers and technology stuff. I just don't get it and it's boring.

Whose temper is worse? I prefer 'Who has more sass?' In that case, ME. Larren is so easy-going and probably the only person who can put up with my sass and let it roll off his back or tell me when I'm being a brat.

Who does the laundry? We both do.

Who does the dishes? The dishwasher.

Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Me, if you're looking at it.

Who pays the bills? Larren.

Who mows the lawn? Just dirt for now...but I've never mowed a lawn in my life...so something tells me it will be him.

Who cooks dinner? Rumbi or Cafe Rio.

Who drives when you are together? Larren...but I might as well...I'm such a backseat driver.

Who is more stubborn? Totally me!

Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? I'm trying to be better, okay people?

Whose parents do you see the most? Mine; they live in AF and Larren's live in Logan.

Who proposed? Totally Larren-I am very old-fashioned.

Who has more friends? I still keep in touch and get together with friends I've had since middle school...so I would say me.

Who has more siblings? Barely Larren--2 sisters, 1 bro compared to my 2 sisters.

Who wears the pants? I KNOW Larren will say me but I swear it's equal! I like to say that we each have one leg in, but Larren will read this and say WHATEVER! :)

Scooter

2008-02-17T20:37:00.000-08:00

Do you remember my first post (3 days ago!)...the one when I pretended that everyone has been begging Larren and me to get a blog? Well, we are now old news, and Scooter (aka Scootie) is in high demand. :) People have been wanting to see him so here's a pic I took at Christmas. He was so ticked at us because we put this bow on his head and just laughed while he ran around trying to get it off. It's not a very good pic since I took it on my phone, but I think you get the gist that he's pretty freaking cute. He's now 9 months old and a fatty, weighing in at 4 1/2 pounds.

How we came to be dog owners: Larren begged for 3 years to get a dog. I was always very apprehensive since I'm allergic to dogs and cats--pretty much anything with hair--but I'd heard that smaller dogs like yorkies, shih tzus, maltese, etc. are great for people with allergies...but the drawback is they have to live in the house because they're not 'made' for the outside. I SWORE I would never have a dog in the house because I thought it was so gross...but last summer I finally gave in and we bought Scooter from the cutest little family ever who cried when he left. 6 months later, my allergies have never bugged at all, and we bathe him once a week so I've overcome my nervousness that our house would be covered with hair and smell like a dog. It's been totally fine and you wouldn't even notice we have a dog in the house...except that he follows me everywhere! It's so sad, Lar totally pushed for Scooter, and Scooter is just so in love with me and chosen me as his #1. Larren pretends like it doesn't make him feel bad, but he has been known on occasion to look at Scooter snuggled in my lap and say, "You know, she didn't even WANT you. You wouldn't be here if it weren't for me." Then Scooter licks Larren's hand and all is well again.

Okay! I'm blogging already!

2008-02-14T18:13:00.000-08:00

So after much peer pressure, we have now entered the blogging world...and holy shiz am I overwhelmed. I am amazed that we have had several people tell us to get a blog. People must be interested in our lives or something. (We are pretending to be popular.) Our blog is pretty lame right now but bear with me as I try to figure this out...

For our first post, let's talk about Valentine's Day...because it's today, you know. We decided to go shopping this weekend and buy stuff for our new house, rather than exchange personal gifts. But...I still wanted a small surprise, because I'm Amberly, and if you're reading this, you KNOW me. I decided that this year, I would be patient and NOT call him in the morning, trying to find out what he'd done this year. (He always does very well.) At around 3 o'clock, sitting at my desk at work, I still hadn't seen anything. No card...no e-mail...no flowers. NADA. So...I broke down and called him. This is our conversation:

Larren: What's up?

Me: Nothing...I just was calling because I'm sad.

Larren: Why?
Me: No one is my Valentine.

Larren: Have you gone to lunch?
Me: I just ate soup at my desk...it's too cold outside.

Larren: Maybe you should go get a drink or go for a quick drive.

Me: (very mopey and dramatic) Why? I'm just going to sit here and be Valentine-less.

Larren: (sigh) Just do it.

Me: Where should I go?

Larren: I don't care, just go!

So I walked out to my car and discovered it was FULL of balloons! I opened the door and they spilled out everywhere. Underneath them all was a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates...and a very mushy card. I just want him to know how much I love him; he is truly my soulmate and my best friend. Love you babe! I will be good next year--NO mopey phone call!