The Hut of Huntley

Magic Mountain

2012-01-25T07:11:00.000-08:00

The last stop on our LA trip was to Magic Mountain. A Six Flags Park on the outskirts of LA. We thought it wouldn't be that crowded.

We were right for maybe the first two hours.

After that we got really used to waiting in line!

The rides were really amazing . I have found that the twirly ones make me feel sick to my stomach.

This was my favorite one. It turns you 360 degrees, there is wind, music and fire. It is really neat. This was our first and last ride we went on. It was by far the best ride we have been on.

Can you believe we get to ride on these?

It was a good day, except that we spent 7 hours at the park and only rode 6 rides. It is still no Disneyland and it never will be!

Christmas Day in LA

2012-01-22T14:01:00.000-08:00

I am going to be honest. I have not been in the mood to blog, or really make any account of our happenings in the last little while. I don't even want to be doing it now but Brent so lovingly (and annoyingly... mainly annoyingly) reminded me that I have a lot to catch up on. So here is LA Day 2.

Now last year when we were in Copenhagen during Christmas, it was miserable, because everything was closed and it was FREEZING! I was worried that LA was going to be a repeat but man I was wrong!

First, we went to Chinatown!

We arrived fairly early and only some of the shops were open. Luckily as the morning progressed many more opened up!

The Chinatown Gate Entrance

In China Town we saw a million different shops with these baby turtles. They were only $5.00 for two and you better believe that I was totally tempted. We didn't think Caliah would enjoy having any siblings!

This is the Disney Music Hall. It wasn't open so we only got pictures from the outside.

This is something that felt oddly familiar in Chinatown! The tent like shopping reminded me of what it was like to shop in the China Town in Budapest! I loved it.

Art in Little Tokyo! Yes, there was a little Tokyo.

Brent enjoying the feeling of being back in Japan... well kinda.

Isn't it a gorgeous day in LA?

We ate lunch in a Little Tokyo. It was a lot of fun to eat really authentic food again.

Then we went to the Trash Towers. Long story short is that this immigrant started building these towers. It took him around 40 years but they are actually pretty incredible.

A statue in the park.

Look at that Tower!

Brent just had to see the donut from Iron Man. To bad it wasn't open.

Then it went to the Canals. They were really beautiful and I would love to have some property on one of these canals.

Very Pretty

Then it was time for Venice Beach. I love playing in the Ocean. Something just feels right about it!

I ended up getting soaked but it was totally worth it.

On Venice Beach there was a lot of really crazy things to look at (including a Medical Marijuana Doctor!) Looking at the two-headed turtles made me feel terrible.

Colorful, hippi, sinful Venice beach.

Brent also really wanted to find the outside gym. Since it was Christmas day there was really no one there working out at all.

It was a successful Christmas day, and honestly I didn't think about it being Christmas once!

Christmas Eve in LA

2011-12-27T18:20:00.000-08:00

After a very fun morning opening presents we headed off to LA! The first place we stopped was the Griffith Observatory which has amazing views of Hollywood.

I would love to say that this was a PERFECT trip, but I felt like this...

miserable!

Luckily, Brent was good at having fun despite me not feeling great!You can barely make it out but there is the Hollywood sign in the background. We found this as we were walking to the Griffith Observatory.

A gorgeous sky from the observatory.

You can actually see the Hollywood sign a little bit better here!

The views from the top of the observatory was really amazing! What a great man who will plan a whole vacation in less than a week to make sure we have an amazing Christmas.

After the Observatory we went to the Holocaust museum. Since we have actually been to a concentration camp this was a little more lack luster for us than it might be for others. Although it wasn't quite as impacting as Auschwitz we were both surprised at the fact that the US made legislation to keep Jewish immigrants out.

After that we went to the Tar Pits. Yes, there are actual tar pits in the middle of LA. You can see the tar pit behind Brent.

Aren't these trees amazing?!

Who knew my tracks were so big? No wonder I have a hard time finding shoes!

Bamboo was everywhere. I am pretty sure Brent would take some of this home in a heart beat!

At the art museum there were statues of all the chinese zodiacs. Since I was born in the year of the rabbit!

Brent was born in the year of the rat! There were some other ones!

There were also lamp lights. This place was really fun!

Brent took a lot of pictures.

While I played a fun game that involved swing from one light lamp to the other. It was really fun.

At the end of the day we went down to the walk of fame. Can I just say that I wasn't that impressed. Brent and I just aren't that into celebrities! I do enjoy Matt Damon though, and we were able to find his footprints and hand prints.

Brent with Jay Leno's star. We walked almost the whole thing and this is the only one that interested him in the least.

We were really excited to be there and see everything. I wish I would have felt a little better but it was a great Christmas Eve anyway! Thank you Brent for planning such a wonderful day!

Christmas (EVE) Morning

2011-12-24T22:13:00.001-08:00

We were suppose to go to Oregon for Christmas but sometimes the airlines just don't like to have affordable tickets. So instead of going home for the holiday we decided to go to LA for the three day weekend!

This made Brent super excited to move Christmas morning one day!

Here is our haul!

Can you believe it?

Brent is the king of wrapping items! He wrapped up a gift card with a old school video game so I wouldn't figure it out! Isn't he the most amazing?

Brent opening his favorite present!

STARCH! Just kidding, well it is starch but not his favorite present

Brents mom sent us Stockings! There is always fun stuff in the stockings! She gave me a scented eye mask that is so amazing, it makes your eyes tingle forever. I opened that and then I was content to just sit there!

Brent got: A NEW COMPUTER! 3 white shirts, work socks, world travelers map, bike, griddle, starch, bread pans, spatula's and a huge stocking from his mom!

Mallory got: 2 pairs of pants, shirt, eyebrow waxing set up, really nice shampoo and conditioner, 60 gift card for shoes (thank you for the puma's Brent!), 2 other pair of shoes, and a BOW AND ARROWS!!!!

It was an amazing Christmas and I think Brent and I both ignored the budget this year. After a big breakfast we were off to LA!

Our First Christmas Tree!

2011-12-04T14:59:00.001-08:00

Four years.

That is how long Brent and I have been married and I am now willing to admit, we have NEVER had our own Christmas tree. This year was different though. We saw and artificial one at Lowes, but it way a little to expensive for us :( So I took to the web and found one that was considerably cheaper but also considerably "dinkier."

Either way we set to decorating our tree.

A big thanks to Christi and Mama Huntley for getting up the "Standard" Ornaments. Since, we haven't had a tree before we hard to buy enough to make look luminous

I thought all the kids visiting would want to help decorate but my nephew Micheal was the only one who could feel the magical Christmas. Everything was pretty "Glitter" filled so Micheal and I were covered by the end of it!

As you can tell, we may have had more ornaments than tree! (Don't you LOVE my Spoon collection in the background. I actually have another 14 spoons and need to get another case!)

The final product.

I really like having a tree. It is small and overwhelmed with ornaments but I love the feeling and warmth it brings!

Great Start to a Wonderful Holiday SEASON!

Red Rock Canyon

2011-11-27T15:56:00.001-08:00

On Saturday we got sick of sitting inside so we decided to get out into nature! Off to the Red Rock Canyon! I have got to warn you that if you come out to visit we are likely to take you here because it is AMAZING!

At the visitors center I decided to ride the lizard! I think this could be the next big form of transportation!

On reason we love Red Rock is because you get to basically climb all over a bunch of cliffs! Of course Brent has to hang off one. Our 7 year old nephew wanted to try, it was hard to explain to him why Uncle Brent got to act like a reckless doof and he didn't :)

Thank Tyler for taking a cute picture!

Everyone hiking. I really love to climb but I am a cautious climber. I think it is because for how tall I am I have pretty small feet, so I don't have as much supporting my heights (that and I am a total klutz and fall a lot.) It is because of this that I sit and scoot down whenever I feel uncomfortable. Either way I get to where I want to go!

Josh and Tyler would tend to just disappear and then show up 100 feet away on some huge rock! They swear they fight but I really didn't hear to much of it while they were here and none while they were on the rocks!

The king of the world!

All the Hikers! Grandma and Grandpa decided to stay on more solid ground and Christi was home with a really bad head ache!

Sometime Brent will say "Hey that is a great shot. Mallory go stand there." In this case he told me to go sit but I think it is a nice picture anyway.

That was only one stop along an 11 mile drive. The second was into a crevice. This is probably my favorite place in Las Vegas. In the crevice there are trees, sand and quiet. I just love being so secluded. It is really easy to just feel at peace in that situation.

Everyone enjoying the hidden Crevice. Although the park was WAY crowded no one else was in here, it made it so much more fun.

At out last main stop Josh took off hiking just to discover that everyone else was to exhausted from hiking all over to keep going. He was pretty bummed since this was one of the easiest place to climb really high into the trees. I was a little bummed to but an exhausted 7 year old doesn't lie.

Brent took a million amazing pictures, but I like the memories more than the cool landscapes, so I may have him to a blog with some of his favorite landscapes he took.

I must say this was probably the highlight of the weekend for me! It was such a great feeling to get out and get moving! It made me feel less guilty about everything I ate too!

Coca Cola Factory

2011-11-27T15:34:00.001-08:00

While the family was down for Thanksgiving we decided it would be fun to go try the "Around the World" Tray at the Coca Cola Factory. It is a tray with 16 coke products that are sold in other countries, but NOT in the US.

Since the factory is down on the strip we had to walk through the MGM to get there from where we parked! While passing through we saw the Lions! Of course they were sleeping. You could also take a picture with a lion cub but it was $25.00. I was pretty tempted though!

The tasting was fun. Everyone generally liked the first tray and generally HATED the second tray. Brent and I were excited to find that they change out the flavors every so often! This is nice because it means we can take people to do it and not get bored!

Eventually, the sweetness of the soda was overwhelming I pretty much quite! Even a small sip was to much for me!

On our way out we saw the Polar Bear was taking pictures! It was free so Tyler, Josh and I took advantage.

The bear touched my back when I fist got up there and I have to admit it was weird. This was an impressive costume! the mouth, eyes, neck, arms and legs all worked so it made the bear really realistic.

Of course on he last picture the bear bite my head! Can you tell how red I am? It was really funny and even though we had seen him do it to other people it still manages to be funny every time!

I really enjoy the coca cola factory. Of course they have a ton of over priced merchandise, but it is nice they have some cheap activities too!

My First Thanksgiving!

2011-11-27T15:11:00.001-08:00

This will be the first of four posts about Thanksgiving! This was my first time cooking, and we were lucky enough to have Brent's parents, sister and brother in-law (+ three kids) in town for the event.

Now onto the dinner!

I am not going to lie, I hated 99% of the cooking. It was just such a chore. It was so much money, and so much work for 20-30 minutes of enjoyment? I don't get it! I don't even like turkey and all the fixings that much, I told Brent our family may have to adopt a new thanksgiving tradition. I was thinking it would be fun to just have each member of the family choose 1 item of food they are most thankful for and prepare that to create a meal. That way we can at least each food I like.

Luckily, my lack of enthusiasm for the task still lead to a great meal for everyone. They were so nice about how the food tasted. I decided that all you need to have a great Thanksgiving dinner is butter and sugar.

Now for a few things I am thankful for this year:

BRENT! He is always my number one thing that I am grateful for. no other man could put up with me AND deserve me all at once!

My family. No matter what's going on I can always expect love and teasing from my family. I am so grateful for all the support and realistic outlooks they provide me with!

Our house. We are so lucky to finally have a little home which reflects my taste and is a place of peace and calm (sometimes!)

My experiences. I have seriously lived such an incredible life! Looking through past blogs and pictures I have really been given a life of fun, adventure, and excitement. Although it is not every second it is sure more than I deserve and I am grateful that I have been able to have lived through everything I have!

Valley of Fire

2011-10-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

The Las Vegas adventure continue! We are of course trying to get out and enjoy what Vegas has to offer. This weekend we ventured about an hour north to explore Valley of Fire. It is a park filled with Red Rock!

The Red Rock is red because it is iron rich soil..

I really enjoy climbing on the rock. It is the most fun, but with 14 miles of park to explore it was a little to much to explore in one day.

It was pretty great weather out. You would never guess that it is the middle of October.

Brent and I always wonder how these holes erode away when they are shielded by other rock.

This is a small ledge that I tried to climb up but when you have short legs and a long waist you can't always reach the right foot holes. Brent made it to the top but I ended up twisting my ankle so I climbed down after half way.

This is the white dome. It is white rock instead of red.

This is a basin that can hold water for months at a time. You could hear the flies and bees and insects at least ten feet away. It was super gross.

All over were carvings from Indian Tribes. No one knows that they mean so anyones guess it welcome!

I guess back in the 1920's people carved out these cabins for travelers crossing the expanse. They were really neat.

Here is what happens when I decide that I am done having my picture taken. Brent loves the camera and usually I am fine, but I just wasn't in the mood.

The Grand Finale! Elephant Rock! Looks like an elephant right?!! The sign took us on a half mile hike. When we got there we realized that we could have gone 100 yards up the road and been there!

It was a great way to spend the weekend. I love exploring but we hope to focus on just a few trails next time so we can take our time!

Swearing in

2011-10-24T19:46:00.000-07:00

While I was away in Portland, Brent received the results that he passed the bar and was officially sworn in as a lawyer. Well I wasn't there for that so when the chance to go to his actual swearing in ceremony you bet we were there!

Brent at the venue, the lighting is weird because of the cool chandeliers!!! Of course, we didn't get a picture of them.

Did you knwo that a swearing in is considered a Special Session of the Nevada Supreme Court? I didn't know that but all of the State justices were there! It was kinda fun to watch the Chief Justice take control of everything. Most of the speakers kept it short and sweet! I am grateful for that!

After the speakers the roll call happened! Brent standing as his name was read.

Applauding everyone who helped the new attorneys get to where they are now. I always appreciate this, because Brent did all the work but I feel just as much closure in this ceremony as Brent did!

The actual swearing in! Short and Sweet! I wish I were there for Brent's real one, it was so much more personal.

A welcome to the bar. Each speaker stressed service, and I couldn't agree more!

The reception was just refreshments. We went to Buca Di Beppo's for dinner. It was so amazing and just what we wanted to celebrate this final step!

Can you believe law school is finally behind us?! Neither can I! I feel so blessed at all Brent and I have received during this process. We for sure did not get here alone, and are grateful for every single person who contributed to our physical and especially mental well-being during this time! Our goal now is to start giving back what we were given!

Concert in the Park

2011-10-19T20:32:00.000-07:00

Ten days in Portland was kinda rough. The first week was a little boring but the second week made up for it! One of the teachers needed to fly home for the week so I got to teach that entire week! Teaching is always stressful and fun!

I arrived in Vegas Friday night, and Brent already had plans for Saturday! Turns out that a local radio station hosted a concert! The first band was 100 Monkeys a local Vegas band. They were pretty fun to listen to, and I even considered buying their C.D. Except I didn't know where to get it at!

Despite it Being mid-October it is still in the high 70's, so they only way I was going to enjoy myself was by staying the shade. We went with our friends Erin and James (with daughter Jadie), who agreed that shade was the only way to go!

Erin, James, and Jadie! Jadie is so adorable!

James bought a watermelon and lime lemonade and Jadie had to have some. She ended up dumping the ice all over herself. I think she was just trying to keep cool!

The main act that we went for was Colbie Ciallat. I have her album and really enjoy the mellow sound. She was pretty good but she wasn't much of a performer. We thought she would play her guitar the entire time but she only played it for the first song.

Justin Young, the guy playing with her, was super impressive. He played the entire time as well as did harmony with her. He can sing surprisingly high. I would really like to hear more from him!

Brent enjoying the show!

Enjoying the show!

We tried to get a picture of us with Colbie and Justin in the background but there was a girl behind us who recorded her ENTIRE performance, so we didn't really get the a good angle. I was impressed with the arm muscles on that girl, to hold her I-Phone the entire half hour!

It was amazing to get out for a couple hours on Saturday! I am determined to find fun things to do every weekend. Erin and James are great examples, they are so active and I am going to be as well!

Weekend Fun in the Rose City

2011-10-14T20:50:00.000-07:00

My parents decided to go to Egypt instead of inviting me to come the decided to call in a favor and asked me to fly to Portland an hang out with Kalen while making sure that everything at the schools went smoothly. Well 10 days in Portland isn't quite the same as 10 days in Egypt, but I was planning to make the best of it!

On Friday Brent flew out to spend the weekend with me. Usually when we are in Portland we are with family and busy, so we were excited to play!

With a city like this who couldn't be excited to do a little exploring!

First, we went to Saturday Market. I never think I am going to like anything there, but I ALWAYS find several things I would love to have!

I did find Hair Feathers that I really wanted to get but Brent told me I wasn't a bird and that he didn't really care for the feathers. I guess I was meant to remain ground bound. I am pretty sure I was meant to be in the water so I just hope that scales never become popular, because I might not be able to say no.

After Saturday Market, I took Brent to Powell's Book Store. It is a Block of glorious books! Brent wasn't sure he would be into it, but he turned out to really enjoy it!

Powell's is always an adventure! And then we were off to the Chinese Gardens. Seriously, this place is amazing. It is a city block in the middle of downtown Portland, and it is seriously an Oasis!

It is designed as a Chinese Noble Man's Garden. There a lot of different structures that the noble man and his family would use. The Garden was meant to be incorporated into the life, not just looked at from time to time.

Through out the Garden there we stone (like the one to the right of Brent) whcih were formed by running water eroding them into unique forms. Looking at one from bottom to top is suppose to be the mental equivalent to climbing a mountain.

Here we are enjoy the Garden. These pictures are much harder to take with the big SLR camera, but the pictures turn out a lot better.

Weeping willows were all over the place!

More cut out rock!

I loved the large ponds because they had a ton of Koi fish in them. We also had a pamphlet that shared with us some of the philosphy used in the creation of the garden. Yin and Yang are one example. Did you know that Yin is the moon and Yang is the water. They are suppose to be opposite forces that end up complimenting each other and influencing nature.

I like this picture because you can really see how this garden is in the middle of the city! You see the Pagoda and the large brick building behind it!

After a fun day in Portland I convinced Brent to go to Papa Haydn's for desert. I got the Boccone Dolce. It is an amazing melt in your mouth desert with chocolate, melt in your mouth layers, fruit and whip cream. It is my favorite but it is NOT for everyone.

(Side note: Seriously I have some major bags under my eyes. I have been sleeping a ton lately but I continue to be exhausted! I may have to start wearing a little make up if this becomes a trend!)

Brent got a Hazelnut cream cake (not the technical name). He has a hard time saying no to anything Hazel nut! Both of our deserts were REALLY delicious but in the end they were too sweet to finish, luckily that is why they had to go boxes!

Brent was only able to stay through Sunday night (I mean someone has to make the big bucks!). It was a short period to fly him out for but I am so glad he came. It was a great way to break up the ten day sand get me out and exploring the city I love.

Brent and I agreed that Portland is wonderful because it is small enough to explore but has all the character and charm of a larger city. I am really grateful that he and I enjoy getting and out being active together! I wouldn't mind if one of us hated eating out though.... I think that would help us in more than one way ;)

Brent Passed the Bar!

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

After 4 years of being dirt poor, 1 Bachelors Degree, 1 LSAT, 4 Applications, 30+ Classes, 9 Re-locations, $25,000 in Tuition, 12 Foreign Countries, Numerous Essays, Countless hours of studying, 4 Days of the Bar Exam, and Over 2 Months of Waiting....

Brent has Officially Been Sworn in as a Lawyer!

I am mostly sad to see this chapter of our life close. It has been an amazing adventure and I could not be more proud of what Brent has accomplished!

There will be an official ceremony that we will attend, and I will blog about on October 21,2011!

Mariners Game

2011-10-09T10:07:00.000-07:00

Finally, the moment of truth! The whole reason we came to Seattle! Mariners!!!! Brent and I arrived early, so we got to walk around the stadium and look at all the little exhibits!

This structure has 1000 bats, which represent a perfect batting average!

Look at me making the catch at the wall. Okay I couldn't look more fake, but still!

Brent makes this look amazing! You can tell he is a natural!

This is guy was the voice of the Mariners, who recently passed away. Brent looks like he would be right at home being a sports caster!

While we were looking out over in the outfield Root Radio started throwing out shirts. The announce couldn't hear me but some persistent fan next to me made sure I got a shirt! Thank you Strangers!

After the third inning they come out and sweep the dirt. Well 5 of the sweepers did a dance! It was TERRIBLE which made it MORE MORE amazing!

The whole group! Thanks Brent for taking this picture!

A famous shot at the game, we always have to take one!

The game was great! We ended up winning 4-2! There was a home run! I don't think I had ever seen one, so the game turned out to be wonderful!

Pike Market and the Gum Wall

2011-10-05T08:58:00.000-07:00

Finally, we worked our rainy way down to Pike's Place. It is a huge market place that is famous for fish throwing. This is just one little chunk of it. It is actually a few stories high and has a couple different turns!

There were fun things to look at where ever we went but we were never tempted... mainly because we didn't have any room in our suitcases. Brent told me that he really likes my hair in this picture, I guess fizzy is really a great look for me!

This is the shop that is famous for throwing fish. I caught them throwing some but Brent was distracted and missed it. Since it was past mid day we were really hungry. Instead of having a meal we actually got little items from vendors and shared. I love eating like that. We probably spent about the same, but we got to try a lot more fun stuff!, like a chocolate hazelnut pastry and a delicious meat filled pastry with amazing mint sauce.

We did have to walk back to the car because we forgot our pack of gum, and found this little statue. The arm is mechanical and hammers up and down all day.

From there we went down to the harbor but there wasn't much to see but a few little things that were worth it!

After the harbor I called Audrey because Brent really wanted to visit the Gum wall. Turned out it was back at Pikes Place Market. Look at this wall!

Of course we contributed! Brent said it started at a protest for waiting a long time for the theater.

I guess a lot of people don't like to wait.

After we finished up we drove down to Auburn to visit with Toren and Audrey for an hour. It was really fun to be out of the rain and just catching up with the family. I seriously want to live close to Audrey because she so so amazing! I am pretty sure we could have a lot of fun together. Little Austin was asleep but woke up just as we were leaving. He was super bashful when he came down but that little boy as to be one of the cutest three on the planet! I could have stayed for a few more hours but it turns out Brent was pretty excited for the Mariners game, so we reluctantly left.

Space Needle and Experience Music Project

2011-10-03T18:59:00.000-07:00

Where is the most famous tourist spot in Seattle? THE SPACE NEEDLE!Before we actually got to the needle we went to Kerry Park, which is known for its amazing view of Seattle downtown! Imagine this on a beautiful clear day!

After the park we drove to the actual space needle. I like this shot because you can actually see the water drops on the lense. Brent was not happy about that, but we were in the rain so I guess it happens!

Next to the Space Needle there is the Experience Music Project. It is an amazing building but Brent and I really had no interest of actually going into the exhibits, so we just walked around inside and out.

I liked this outside structure.

The Music Experience building with the Space Needle in the background!

A front view of the Music Experience building! Seriously how awesome is this building. I have no idea how an architect can dream up and make something like this happen!

Final picture of the Space Needle.

On our way back to the car we ran into saw these duck vehicles. They are amphibious so they go strait from street travel to water travel.

The Space Needle is cool but like most of the biggest tourist attractions I still kinda think it is overrated. It was nice to get to check it off the tourist list!

Gas Works, Lenin and a Troll

2011-10-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

In Seattle they have a couple different parks that are totally unique. One of them is the Gas Works park. It used to be an old gas refinery. They closed it down but left all the equiptment.

Signs were everywhere telling us to not climb on the material. Apparently, we do not read very well.

I swear I am more tan that this picture is implying!

I liked all the bright colors. The chose a very fun palate of colors. you can see some purple in the background of this picture. I will they had little plaques explaining how everything worked at one point or another.

Gorgeous view of Seattle!

After that we went to visit a statue of Lenin. I guess the story goes that someone purchased it and brought it back from Russia. This statue is true to communist form. We saw A LOT of communist art work while we were in Hungary and it look pretty similar to this.

Some may ask "What does "this" mean?" Well communist artwork is suppose to inspire a sense of community, hard work, and equalization. Since Lenin was the leader of the Soviet Communist Party, typical art would consider it odd that he is in a walking position with average work clothes on. This suggest that he is a common man. It is also very typical to see communist art work combined with some sort of rock structuring. As you can see Lenin is coming out of stone, this suggest that his pathway and his will are unbreakable even when compared to the solidarity of rock. These are things that we saw a lot in Eastern Europe so it was kinda nice seeing some familiar looking pieces.

If you are wondering I did not google my analysis, it was all my own which is why it could be WAY off! Needless to say, it is pretty controversial to have in Seattle since the US has never supported communism or its propaganda.

Once we were finished looking at Lenin we went to find the Troll that was featured in the movie 10 things I hate about you! They were doing construction right next the the Troll but had it opened for people to climb on. I was trying to see if they carved out his nostrils, and they did.

This thing was GIANT! In his hand he had a full VW bug!

Brent just relaxing. you can see the VW bug, and the construction much better in this picture!

The troll was one of my favorite stops! I am still not sure why the troll is there, but I will more people took advantage of unusual art spots!

Seattle Parks

2011-09-30T09:21:00.000-07:00

Saturday and Sunday were relaxing but Monday was a day to get things done! Brent decided that he wanted to be tourist in Seattle! It was a great idea and I was totally excited, until I looked out the window and saw a steady downpour of rain. that is when I became less excited about the prospect of walking around outside all day.When we were in London is rained, but since we were in London it was exciting, not daunting. Despite the rain we took off for Seattle!

Our first few stop were Parks, which is exactly what I wanted to do in the rain ;)

Carkeek Park was the first place we went. Brent said this park had a great view of the Olympic Mountain range.

I am sure he is right but because of the overcast sky we couldn't really see anything.

At the Park there were some funky statues. I really liked tis one.

The park was right next the the oceans. I was tempted to jump on in, but decided against it.

I loved the funky algae covered rocks on the ocean side.

Another statue in the park.

The second park we went to was the Golden Gardens park. Half the park was beach and the other half was harbor. We saw a class of scuba divers swimming back and forth between the two.

Perhaps our flash was a little to bright?

The parks were really fun. It was hard to do anything but get out of the car and look around and then go to the next place. We plan to do the parks again in the future when it is nicer so we can actual hike and enjoy the surroundings!

Seattle Trip!

2011-09-27T22:04:00.001-07:00

Once a year we try to make it up to Seattle with Brent's family and watch some Mariners Baseball! This year we were pretty lucky to have the same chance! We arrived late Friday night and were so tired we decided to go straight to bed! It was a good decision.

Saturday and Sunday were comprised of relaxing! It was really nice. We went to Bucks for lunch on Saturday. Sean said that Buck's is a pretty famous spot for good seafood. I got a cup of clam chowder and it was sure tasty!

Later that day we went to Zach, Mel's son, soccer game. It was nice to watch a soccer game. I am not a really big soccer fan, but it was nice just to see all these boys working so hard!

After church on Sunday we went to a farmers market, down on the Harbor. Brent did a wonderful job taking some artistic photo's.

Here we are at the harbor.

Brent with his mom at the Farmer's market!

Sean had Brent and I sneak Mel some wonderful flowers. Flowers are SO inexpensive at the farmers market. I told Brent that is we lived there he would have to buy me some every week they were so beautiful!

Another wonderful artsy photo. I like how the buoys kind of look like Chinese lanterns.

The Gateway to the water. I really liked the framing of the walkway.

Saturday and Sunday were a really nice relaxing time. We spent a lot of time with the family, just catching up. We also watched the movie Hanna, and I wasn't to impressed. The weather was a great Northwest windy, drizzly, gorgeous green!

Johnny Rocket and The Silverton

2011-09-14T15:11:00.000-07:00

After driving the car all the way back from Portland (by myself) it was nice to have a day to recoup. On Friday evening we went out with Erin and James, who had just moved here to work at the same firm as Brent.

We went to the Silverton Casino and ate at Johnny Rocket's. It is this 60's style diner. James order a sampler plate with mini hamburgers and hot dog. Jadie, Erin and James 14 months old daughter, really enjoyed the hot dog. James also got a yummy dark chocolate strawberry milkshake. Jadie, took that milkshake down! James looked away for about a minute until he realized Jadie had drank about half of it!

Here is the Ketchup they gave me! Isn't it just the cutest little face?

Since the Casino is mermaid themed, you get cool features like this! Those tanks are full of Jelly Fish! The tank changes colors too.

The Silverton also has a really amazing Bass Pro Shop. I am thinking it is bigger than Cabella's. Here is James and Jadie looking at a fish pond.

Brent just fitting in with the wild life.

Isn't this a really cute little cub! He was really kind to let me pet him!

Erin and James playing Wii hunting. It is pretty much the only form hunting I endorse.

Overall it was a really fun time. We saw the mermaid again, but Jadie pretty much started crying at the site of her! Going out with James and Erin is always a good time and I think we plan to do it again very soon!

Labor Day in Portland

2011-09-13T20:50:00.000-07:00

I have been travelling a lot lately. It started out with Utah, then San Diego and my third trip was to Portland over Labor day!

I have three major reasons to want to see my family all the time...

Those reasons are Austin...

Brody...

And Braden (apparently I didn't have a photo of him from Portland.)

One of the favorite past times of all three boys was this... getting food out of every possible source. I believe Brody had a fudge-cicle for breakfast one morning. Austin didn't like the cold so he would get any other type of food he could.

Austin set his sights on basically every animal in his sight. He was even daring enough to hug Itty Bitty. The old cat put up with it decently, but you could tell he was close to showing Austin who was boss.

Over the weekend we did a lot of fun, relaxed things. I bought a car, and Maren and Blake bought a van. We watch the first BYU game (which was torture since they almost lost), and we celebrated Toren's 30th birthday!

Since we didn't want to share the cake with the kids, we waited until they were all in bed! After singing Happy Birthday, Braden came down. He told Maren "Mom, can I stay down here? It is just soooo boring up there (in bed)." Braden is such a little negotiator, but with something so cute it is no wonder Maren let him stay.

He sat on Blake's lap and just chattered to himself for a good hour! He was adorable!

Toren requested that my mom make the famous chocolate cake, with no additions... and that is what he got.

Portland was a great relaxing trip, and since we purchased a new car I was able to drive it home. It was a turbulent ride where I way overdosed on 5 hour energy to stay awake. Although I had a hard time sleeping, I was able to drive safety home!

Thank you to my Aunt Patty who let me take a day of rest in Utah. I got a great chance to catch up with them and see some friends!

Overall this was a great great trip. I love having such a wonderful family!

India Parade

2011-09-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

So it is pretty pointless to remind everyone that I am attempting to find where I fit in Vegas. To help in this endeavor Brent has found so community activities that we thought it would be fun to participate in. Our first activity was for the India Independence Day Parade.

We arrived only a few minutes before the parade was suppose to start. The streets were practically empty so I was a little concerned that we had either missed it or it wasn't actually going to happen.

For some reason the Porta-Potties were very funny to me

It says "PORTA JANE: BECAUSE JOHN CAN'T AIM!"

Since the Parade was running late we ran across the street to grab a slurpee. Did we need to sugar or calories? Nope, but it was delicious anyway!

The parade start with a woman who had the most annoying voice. She seemed to like her own voice more than anything else. Despite the annoying announcer we were able to see some beautiful native dress. The multiple colored outfit in the middle was all sparkles! It was gorgeous!

The parade turned out to be less than lack luster. Here is suppose to be a famous Indian Warrior...

These four girls were cute. They would dance with the four pieces then them combine them to make the shape of India. They did a nice job.

Here is what a typical "float" looked like. It seemed that ever region of India was suppose to have a float but no one want to actually make one, so it ended up being people from that area just walking down the street.

These girls were a great source of culture. They were actual Indian dancers. Not as impressive as more professional Indian dances I have seen but it was fun to watch either way.

Out of the whole parade there was one float and here it is.... Yes, I was unaware that Elmo, Sponge Bob, Yurtle the Turtle, and other characters were actually native Indians... crazy.

In short, the parade was a bust, but it was fun getting out there to try something new and different, and I think we will be trying these type of social experiments more frequently!

Car Show

2011-08-29T21:19:00.000-07:00

In San Diego I had an epiphany of sorts... Even If I am not a fan of Las Vegas it is where I am living so I might as well try to enjoy it!

My first step was quitting my job... which I did... Next, was getting involved in the community!

Brent found a classic car show that kicked off our community events. It was free and actually pretty cool! Brent loved taking some artistic photo's.

Here is Brent's favorite car. A Shelby. There were 6-7 of these in a line and Brent would have been more than happy to take any one of them home!

Can you tell I was about to head to the gym? This is a classically restored Bug Van! It had wall paper and all the little doodads to boot! I could have crawled in and really enjoyed the ride!

Brent hates handing over his camera, but I insisted on getting proof that he was actually there too! What a stunning car next to such a handsome man!

Overall there was about 150 cars. Since it was free we were able to walk around and look for about 30 minutes before heading off to the rest of our day!

San Diego Part Three: Harbor and other

2011-08-19T22:15:00.000-07:00

San Diego was such an amazing trip. Saturday night we went into a little cove place next to Sea World and had hot dogs and s'mores! Man Brody got good at throwing things into the sand! I am always surprised at how well Evelyn and Devin (Kara's kids) are at entertaining themselves!

The Hostess and Host! I really like this picture and you can just barely see Kara's 7 month Preggers if you look really hard!

Braden had to go to the bathroom and no one wanted to take him, so Doug and Blake taught him the way of the man... Pee on a Tree!

Sunday we relaxed and BBQ'd in the park. Church was a lot of fun too. I learned an interesting fact about the Portland Oregon. Ships will travel 100 miles in land to dock in the Portland Harbor because Barnacles can not live in Fresh water and will fall off. Ships save a ton of money, time and resources by making the trip to Portland to get rid of these free loaders.

Monday, the boys went snorkeling. They went into caves. I really wanted to go but would have felt really bad since Brent had already encouraged me to quit my job to stay longer. We met them at the beach and played! Doug and I again ventured out into the waves to go Boogie Boarding. I caught a few good waves but because of an under-toe we weren't really allowed into the best waves.

Doug then took Maren and I to see some Leopard Sharks. Apparently, thousands of pregnant Leopard sharks swarm this particular beach because they enjoy the warm water. While they remain there they can reduce them gestation by almost a full month! Maren is terrified of sharks so she stood back, but directed Doug and I to where they were congregated! I saw them, but I wasn't good with the snorkel mask. Doug actually touched one!

That night Maren, Kara and I went out to dinner and a movie. We saw Stupid, Crazy Love and ADORED it! Dinner conversation was great! I love listening to two women who have such fun, loving, stable relationships and am glad that others struggle with similar things that I do!

I am so grateful to Kara for inviting and hosting us for the entire weekend! She did so much work and made it look effortless!I wish that one day I will be able to plan such amazing vacations for family and friends!

SO THANK YOU KARA AND DOUG! I AM TRULY BLESSED TO KNOW YOU!

San Diego Day One: Boat Ride

2011-08-19T21:28:00.000-07:00

After we got done looking around the Marina it was time for the boat ride! We went on the North tour which showed us all the Naval points. It was a fun ride but I couldn't hear to much of the tour guides explanations. It wasn't to important to me because I was really there to play with the kids and family!

Maren and Brody enjoying the view and wind. When we first got to the top deck there were several people taking up chairs and the outer edge. Luckily, Maren is a Type A personality and didn't mind asking some people to chose. The people who relocated were really kind and enjoyed looking and the adorable 4 kids in our group!

Blake and Brody. Look at how excited Brody is! When I saw him last April he seemed so grumpy but he was really delightful all weekend.

Kara Devin and I. Kara is 7 months prego and still looks absolutely amazing. She is also impossible to keep up with! I love Devin's face! It looks like he is being forced to enjoy himself!

After a while Braden and Evelyn were done looking at boats and buildings so I took them to the second floor and we danced. It was really fun playing with these two. Even better is after I was done dancing after 15 minutes they were more than happy to dance together!

The boat ride was a lot of fun. I always enjoy boat rides, it makes sense since they are water based! More to come on San Diego so stay tuned!

San Diego: Day One and Morning Two!

2011-08-19T21:19:00.000-07:00

When Maren told me she was going down to San Diego to visit our cousins Kara and Doug, I just knew I had to come along. Man was it a wonderful weekend. Kara had everything planned out so I just had to be ready at the right time!

The morning after I arrived in San Diego we all went on a bike ride close to the air force base. It was a nice easy bike ride. I am really glad because I am not a rider of any sort. The views were really nice but I am sorry to say I didn't get any pictures. if you check out Maren's blog here, you can see the ones that were taken.

After the bike ride we went to the beach. I can't say this enough: I was meant to be a mermaid. Not only can I pull of the whole seashell outfit (I am just guessing I can), I just adore the water in any form! The kids had a blast playing. Blake and I built a sand castle and then Braden promptly destroyed it! He was very patient while we made it though.

Doug taught me how to find sand crabs. I didn't even know that there were such a thing, but now I would say that I can actually find them all by myself, although it took the better part of the afternoon to learn. I can't wait to show Brent how to find them.

Then Doug and I went body surfing. It wasn't very warm but the water felt fine after only a few minutes. I got tossed around pretty bad, but I would rather do it every day than live as far away as I do. Kara was such an amazing planner she has nearly convinced me to pick up and move just to be closer to her and her wonderful family!

That evening Kara hired two baby sitters so all the adults could go to the temple. I have heard that the San Diego Temple is considered one of the most beautiful, and now I understand why. We accidentally went to the Spanish session, so it was a lot of fun trying to get comfortable with the headphones!

Saturday morning we went to the Marina, where the was military statues everywhere!

Brody did not really appreciate our rendition of this one! Maren and Blake did a really cute interpretation but alas it was not on my camera.

Brody was so cute playing on these statues. It looked like he was going to flip himself over but he didn't really get to that point... luckily.

Evelyn and Devin must have been here before because they walked straight up to this handrail station and slide down. Braden had to have a turn! It was really cute!

There was a ledge, over the ledge is a rocky cliff and then water. Brody really enjoyed sitting on this ledge.

He tried to make a break for the water a few times but he would always look back as if asking "so when are you going to stop me?"

Walking back to the Boat I saw that there were little black crabs walking all over the rocks! How cute are they?

Kara really does have a knack for knowing all the great places to take visitors, she stays and amazing hostess!

Four Wonderful Amazing Years

2011-08-19T07:47:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it?!?!? We have last Thursday was the 4 year mark for Brent and I. I am honestly astonished at how quickly these last few years have passed, and all the amazing opportunities we have had!

Before I get to how we celebrated I thought I would share my FOUR greatest blessings that we have received with since we were sealed in the temple FOUR years ago!

Brent and I both graduated from Brigham Young University with our Bachelors
Brent graduated from Brigham Young Law School with his Juris Doctorate, with no debt
We have traveled to 13 different countries and two Continents, with no debt
We have lived in two different countries and 4 different states

For our anniversary we decided desert was in order so we headed down to the strip. Max Brenner Chocolate Factory at Cesar's is where we decided to go.

Since we lived in Europe Brent and I have developed an obsession of sorts with Hazelnut, so when we saw there was a hazelnut milkshake we had to get it. It was REALLY REALLY good. They also had metal straws which I though was pretty neat. This is the best picture we could get of us together!

We also got churro's and chocolate fondue. The choloate was amazing but the churro's left something to be desired. I would have preferred they were a bit softer. The chocolate was so good Brent to a straw to it after we had run out of things to dip. I did this as well but I think the straight chocolate was to much for me.

Some people, however must really love chocolate because here is another item they sell. Talk about a chocolate injection!

After we finished desert we just walked around the casino. There was a really neat aquarium. Brent really loves stingrays, so this guy was his favorite.

From where we parked. Brent was hoping to get some more artistic photos of this view but none of them really worked out the way he was hoping.

Since we were travelling so much and I had classes to finish this wasn't our biggest celebration but it was nice to try something new and spend a little time together!

Utah Day Three: Sick on Sunday

2011-08-19T07:44:00.000-07:00

My weekend had been super amazing so far, and I was ready to spend Sunday hanging out with my Aunt Patty and Uncle Bob + Family, but of course what happens? At 5: 30 am I start throwing up. I guess Brent woke up and tried to ignore me until he heard me calling his name and he finally came in and gave me sympathy!

While everyone else went to church I laid on the couch trying to not get to nauseous, and failing.

This is how I spent most of my day...

Despite me not feeling well, Josh (cousin) came over to dinner with his new fiance (Melissa). Here is Jenny, Megan, and Linda (practically one of the family) at the dinner table. I didn't get a good picture of Melissa and Josh. I am chalking it up to being sick.

I did sit close to the dinner table and enjoyed conversation. I can say this: Josh did well. Melissa is really great (they are on the other side of Brent). Melissa's family is from El Salvador (I think..?) and they own a restaurant in SLC. I am really excited for both of them and I am sure they are going to have an amazing wedding and a wonderful eternal marriage!

After dinner concluded, I faced the terrible reality: I was sick and needed to drive 6 hours home... My Aunt Patty (who let us stay with them, and babied me through out the whole ordeal) game me two benedryl and so I basically passed out in the car. I am glad Brent is such a good driver because I only remember waking up twice the whole drive.

A trip to Utah was exactly what I needed. Las Vegas is not my type of city so to break away and see/spend time with friends and family was a really wonderful opportunity!

Thank you to all the people who spent time, helped, talked to and just hung out with use while we were there! A special thanks to my aunt and uncle who are always so willing to let us stay with and monopolize their time! They really go above and beyond to make us feel welcome in their home!I feel so blessed to have such a haven of comfort close to Vegas!

Utah Day Two:Baby Shower Madness

2011-08-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

It had been a mad two days up until this point and it was finally coming time to the whole reason I drove up to Utah! To throw a Baby Shower for one of my friends!

Here is the treats and decoration table! Notice the Diaper cake in the middle? I am still pretty proud of that. And it turned out to be a fun game. Everyone had 30 seconds to memorize everything on it. Only 3 people got that there was a bottle of sparkling cider in the middle. All of the guest said that it turned out really cute so of course I feel great for actually following through on making it!

The entire room! As per the norm, Brent was an amazing support. He put up with all my craziness through this whole situation. Primary rooms are so hard to decorate! They are just so utilitarian. I wasn't really pleased with how it looked but there was no time! We had wasted the day on much more fun activities than caring about how some streamers looked!

The soon to be proud parents! A shout out to Spencer for taking a normal picture. I am pretty sure Erica is pinching him because he is usually impossible to get a normal picture out of!

Instead of your normal games I tried to come up with ones that were less competitive and more collaborative and creative. One of the activities was to decorate a onsie in a theme relating to the family (travel, BYU, a mommy and a daddy onsie). Jessica and Jennifer did the travel one. They did an amazing job! When these two get together magic happens because they created a globe out of the entire onsie with rocket ships and planes on the sleeve and polar bears and penguins in the north and south poles! I am really hoping to get a similar when it comes time for me to have a shindig like this.

After the shower was over we all went out to Ice cream. Spencer, Phil, and Brent did join us for the desert party. I miss Macey's ice cream! $0.48 for an ice cream cone and somewhere to sit and talk!

Here is the group of girls I grew up with and remain friends today. Brent was making fun on me because I always sink down in pictures like. I can't help it if I am at least 6 inches taller than everyone else and don't feel like looking like a giant. You can't really tell here how much taller I am so go to the next picture...

Can you see it now? I am a lot taller. It isn't a bad thing but it is a thing so I shrink for pictures... I am almost certain if I didn't shrink we wouldn't fit in the same frame!

It was so nice to see everyone again. Jessica made this amazing Afgan for Erica. It was really adorable and I begged her for a similar one when it came my time, but of course I forgot to get a picture of it and that is a long way off!

Jennifer and I were talking about how we are all terrible at keeping in touch but when we are back together it is like nothing has changed, and we have been out of touch for maybe an hour or two. I really love these girls and wish that we won't end up all over the country... but I am sure we will end up all over the U.S. and the country will be more blessed for it!

Utah Trip: Day Two Afternoon

2011-08-08T21:43:00.000-07:00

It was sad to leave the Carlson's but I was hosting a shower that night and so we had things to do!

Driving back from Midway we realized how much we missed being out and about in nature. Passing Bridal Veil Falls we just had to stop. Brent had been dying to use his camera to get some more "artistic" shots. This is a really slow shutter speed so it captures the waters movement.

The walk is really short (like maybe 1/4 mile) but it was super nice to relax and enjoy each others company.

In the water at the bottom of the falls

Brent is pretty proud of this shot, minus the orange dot!

Here is the little watering hole. The water was FREEZING!!! I got used to it because I kept my feet in the water.

Below the falls. Even with the huge camera this picture still works!

This is the last shot we got before leaving! Brent is so wonderful at taking pictures. I am really glad that he has super productive hobby!
A bench we found. I think it was made for cuddling! What a sneaky idea by the designer ;)
Brent looking manly! He likes to look off into the distance. You never know if he is thinking about the mystery of the world or spotted a grizzly and is about to wrestle him down with his bare hands.

Another artsy shot. I am going to have to choose a few of these and have them enlarged and hung on our walls!

It was great getting a chance to stop and just meander around the falls! Being out in nature was super relaxing and hope to do this more frequently.

Utah Trip: Morning of Day Two

2011-08-08T21:39:00.000-07:00

After experimenting with the diaper cake, Kelly and Arvid were nice enough to let us stay the night! When we woke up, and the vacation continued by golf ball fishing! Kelly and Arvid's backyard is a golf course which means the little pond (and their house) are constantly being bombarded by golf balls!

Kelly said she loved fishing out the gold balls, and I didn't get it... until I tried it! For some reason seeing that little white ball, and then going after it is the perfect morning activity!

Kelly trying to teach me how estimate where the ball is!

Success! Once I got a hold of my first ball I couldn't be stopped!

Brent fished out a BYU ball! Kelly graciously offered to let us take the balls we rescued home with us. They have two huge bags full of them, but we thought they would miss their friends so we washed them and put them in storage!

For some reason, Kelly and I always knew we got along better than two people probably should and here's some proof that we are really alike! Our rings are reversed! I have a diamond with trillion sapphires on the sides and Kelly has a Sapphire with trillion diamonds on the sides!

Okay this realization might have been more to the random little things you notice when you are on vacation and don't have any other care in the world!

It was so nice to see Kelly and Arvid. I threatened to move back to Budapest more than a couple times and they were both sweet enough to pretend that they would love to have us there! I really miss these two!

Brent and I agreed that if we moved back to Utah when they were done travelling the world it would be like we have family right there! If you ever get the chance to meet these two and their family consider yourself a very blessed person! I know we do!

Utah Trip: Day One Evening

2011-08-08T21:17:00.000-07:00

After a relaxing dinner, catching up and playing some games Erica, her husband and kids, and David had to head back to Provo. That is when Kelly and I got to work! I was hosting a baby shower for Erica the next evening and thought it would be so cute to make a diaper cake!

I saw one of these at a trade show that Brent's parents were at and I thought it was such a fun idea! It turned out to be super easy too!

First, roll size 1 (or whatever size you think is appropriate) from the bottom to the top and secure with a rubber band. I bought a pack of 92 diapers and didn't use all of them.

Second, get some sort of a platter. I found a 16" pizza pan at the dollar store that ended up being the perfect size!

Third, in the middle of the pan place a bottle of sparkling cider (for the parents to celebrate with at the hospital), the surround the bottle with diapers. We did it three diapers thick and it worked out really well.

After you have the shape secure the bottom tier with a rubber band. The repeat for a second (2 diapers deep) and third layer (1 diaper deep.)

You can tell we were taking this very seriously!

Fourth, after all the layers are created and secured around the cider with rubber-bands take some ribbon and tie it around the center of each layer.

Finally, decorate! Use bows, pacifiers, rattles, nail clippers, bottles, picture frame (as pictured in my hand,) and whatever else you think the new mom could use! Kelly had such a great eye for this! I was utterly helpless with the bows! She made 5 and I made a measly 1!

Final Product: Diaper Cake.

I think it turned out really cute! Some instructions said to cover the diapers with tissue paper so you couldn't see the print but I think the color actually complimented the overall look.

I also used it as a game at the shower. Everyone had 30 seconds to memorize as much as they could. Only three people noticed the bottle of cider in the middle! I really liked the diaper cake and plan to do it again!

Utah Trip: Day One

2011-08-07T08:34:00.000-07:00

Can I tell you how bad I needed a vacation... I don't think I am effectively communicate it. I needed some time to just hang out with friends and family, which I did! Do any of you remember what happened when Brent and I went to Anncey? Check it out here if you don't. Either way this trip started out similarly. We took off Thursday after work and were excited to get in, get rest and start enjoying our day. Our car, however, had a different plan.

About ten miles outside Vegas our little white car broke down. After about two hours we were able to get it back home and switch into the truck. It sounds pretty standard but it was miserable. We ended up getting in around 2:30 and went straight to bed.

Then the fun began. The next morning Brent went to work and I got my hair cut by my friend Linda (who is amazing) and went to lunch with some friends After that I picked Brent up from work and we headed to Midway to spend time with our friends, Kelly and Arvid, from Budapest.

This is what I was most excited to do while in Utah, since we weren't sure if seeing them would work out! When we got that we were amazed at how gorgeous their location and house in Midway was.

For the first part of the evening we just relaxed with Kelly, Arvid and their children, Erica, David, and Scott. It was so nice to just sit on the back porch, admire the scenery, and catch up.

Brent did do a great job of getting some great pictures!

The pond in their back yard.

Their backyard is actually right next to a golf course so this pond is frequently full of golf balls. They taught us how to get them out. It is like fishing without the patience. So we really liked it!

Mom this picture is for you. Notice the green? This is how all of Utah looked to us. It is NOTHING compared to Oregon but it sure made me hate the orange and dirt of Vegas.

This picture was taken by Kelly and Arvid's son Scott. Look at what an amazing job he did!

After we finished dinner and catching up there was just enough time to play a game or two and then Erica and her family, and David had to head back to Provo. It was great meeting them. I got along with all of them, which only makes sense since I am such good friends with the person who raised them!

Keep checking back to see how Kelly and I entertained ourselves later that evening!

Ding Dong the Witch is Dead!

2011-07-30T21:01:00.001-07:00

Which witch you ask? The Stupid Bar Exam.

Yes, it is finally done. It was a long four days. Sean, Brent's brother, was kind enough to rent Brent a room right next to the UNLV campus where he could be only 5 minutes away from the test and really be in the zone. I got one phone call a day to let me know how he was an how he was doing.

Overall he feels really good about the test. He says there is just really no way to know. He feels good and I am sure he did wonderfully! He did get the luxury of going out for lunch every day!

Luckily, my mom was in town to keep me company. I feel really bad because I was (and still am) a little ball of stress. I know the bar is stressful on the person taking it but it is also stressful on the people living with them. I tried to make Brent's pre-bar life as "without worry" as possible. Obviously I am not perfect especially since I have been having a hard time adjusting to the move, location, job, school, cars breaking down and a few other things. I am sure my mom thought I was just miserable, I know she did because I was sick of being around me!

My mom came down to take care of her little nest egg. I can really say that my mom is the best handy-man I know. She came in and fixed up just about everything that needed to be done! She did have to take some homework with her, but even that she has finished and now needs to get it set up!

One of my biggest blessings during this time was being called to serve in the Young Women. I can honestly say that I work with an amazing group of girls! At 12 and 13 they already have such strong testimonies of our Heavenly Father. They are so open to learning and letting me become part of their lives. I have never seen a group of teenage girls get along so well either. The leaders have been really welcoming and have let me just jump in and participate. I am really glad that my Heavenly Father let me work with such wonderful people!

So in the two days that Brent has finished the bar, he has kinda hopped back and forth from different hobbies that he enjoys. I can find him reading, checking baseball stats, and watching videos to learn more about his camera with in a ten minute time frame!

I am glad the bar is over so we can get back to normal, but to be honest, I am not sure either of us knows what this new normal is.... Wish us luck on the journey!

Coca Cola and Fountains

2011-07-04T22:12:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we did a lot of Strip walking (LV strip people!) and so when we headed back out Saturday evening I was a little nervous. Luckily, Anne, Brian and their daughter Cora (who are LV natives) and they brought some new fun things to the table!

The first thing we decided to experience was "AROUND THE WORLD" from Coca Cola. At the Coca Cola factory on the strip they offered the "Around the World" which is 16 different cola's that they make from around the world.

We purchased one for the 6 of us and it turned out to be just right! They gave us a little sheet telling us the name of the drink as well as the country it was from.

Everyone about to enjoy on this wonderful treats!

Brent and I enjoying this treat. It was so hot and I really look like it is a million degrees out too!

I like most of the drinks, except the one from Italy that EVERYONE hated! It was called Beverly and I am not sure that anyone actually buys that one even when they are in Italy.

This is what happens when the around the world is finished! I can't wait to have other people over to try this! It is a great way to spend an hour.

On the way out there was a Picture Coca Cola Bear. He was nice but the eyes would blink and it FREAKED me out! Cora was not thrilled with him either! She got a sticker out of it and was then pretty thrilled.

One of the few places on the strip that actually lives up to the hype is the Bellagio Water Show. We have been three different times and each time it is a different song with different choreography. I really enjoy it and will be happy to accompany anyone to one of those shows!

Here are family pictures of everyone in Attendance.

Brent and I!

Erica and Spencer

Brian, Anne and Cora!

After the show, we decided taking the tram back to our parking lot was a better idea than walking! We walked through a casino to get to the Tram. It had amazing decor. Brent and I decided that we really need to go to one casino and walk all the way through it. I think it will provide some great date nights when Brent actually has some time!

At the metro show I made everyone be one of the wall guys. I said that they would be happy once it was blogged. I think they think I am crazy.

It was a great night on the strip. I really enjoyed hanging out with Erica, Spencer, Anne, Brian and Cora. I am sad Erica and Spencer couldn't stay for longer and that Anne and Brian will be leaving back to Law School in August!

A Berry Birthday and Lazy Sunday!

2011-07-04T21:43:00.000-07:00

There are two things that I love more than others: Lazy Sunday's and BIRTHDAY's!!! One Sunday the 3rd was Spencer's 24 Birthday and a lazy Sunday. Spencer had purchased an entire bag of frozen barriers and requested that I use all of them for his birthday.

Always up for a challenge I made a very Berry breakfast of waffles and eggs.

After church we really took advantage of the "lazy" portion of the Sunday.

Well some of us, Brent continued to study for the Bar hard! He has been working hard all the time.

Erica and Spencer watching some television. It took a million shots to actually get one of Spencer looking normal... well as normal as he could.

I had a relaxing day preparing a Berry rich meal. I made a great Berry salad with a raspberry vinaigrette, and a nice Berry syrup that I drizzles over some yummy chocolate torte (which was purchased at Costco.)

For Desert Everyone request Berry milkshakes. I was more than happy to oblige, except we didn't have a Blender! With a mixing bowl and a handy attachment I was able to make some milkshake goo.

Spencer started work at the capital on Tuesday, so they headed home on Sunday. We did get in a few fun games of Mr. X! They are always welcome back to stay as long as they would like!

Sam and Terri Anne: Day 3

2011-06-30T07:06:00.000-07:00

Sam and Brent had decided that Sunday would be a great day to go admire the wonderful landscape that our Heavenly Father gave us! So we went off to Red Rock Canyon.

We are staring directly into the sun. Chloe was the only smart oe to actually look away!

Here is some of the rare beautiful landscape. Yes, I will openly admit it: I find VERY few redeeming features in the desert, but when you throw a little Green into the equation Even the desert can be pretty.

Terri Anne was such a good sport. While we were all out climbing on the rock she would watch and play with Chloe (who I am pretty sure wanted to be out there just as bad as we did!)

Brent and I climbing around. I always think I am not adventurous until I see something I can climb on and then I AM OFF! I loved it! Brent and I plan to go back to climb higher when it cools down a bit and when the Bar is finally over!

Although I love to climb I am not nearly as fast as Brent and Sam. They were usually 5 steps ahead of me, but I always caught up.

I think this is a very cute family picture. Terri Anne is pregnant in this picture, I hope I can look that good when it comes my time.

Family Picture at one of the overlooks. Can you tell Chloe looks tired?

At another stop along the 7 mile drive we found these hand prints which had been left by earlier civilization. Notice that my hand is hovering over one of the prints... Brent didn't think that was necessary I guess! There is one in the middle of us that you can see really well!

Two boys atop a cliff... Probably not a good idea! Luckily, thy both have amazing wives who are willing to be the voice of reason!

This is a tree we found on our drive. 1 Trillion points to anyone who can name what kinds it is!

Very nice view as we were headed out of the park.

Red Rock Canyon was pretty amazing. It felt so good to be out in nature and just enjoy fresh air and just enjoy this beautiful earth. Our next national park that we will be going to will be the Ring of Fire! I am hoping it is as much fun!

Sam and Terri Anne: Day 2

2011-06-30T06:59:00.000-07:00

Saturday Morning was great. Mainly because I did nothing! We all laid around until about 11:00 am and then decided that we were ready for the pool. We have a neighborhood pool and I was pretty excited to go and see what it was like!

There was a great spot that was only 6 inches deep! It was great for Chloe who could walk around all by herself!

The adults were a little more hesitant to get in! Sam had already jumped in and insisted the water was FREEZING, so Terri Anne and I decided to wait until we were burning to get in, which didn't take to long!

Chloe loved playing with the balls! So did Brent and Sam. There was this little squishy baseball that Brent and Sam played with for a good hour. Once I got in, I was delighted to find it was only cold for the first five minutes and then it felt AMAZING!

There is the little ball that Brent and Sam were skipping back and forth to each other. Chloe just wanted to play so bad!

That evening we went back out to the Strip! This is in Cesears Palace. It was pretty neat. Brent said he thought it was cooler than the Trevi Fountain (JOKINGLY OF COURSE!)

Family picture at the Bellagio. Chloe hated not being able to see everything.

We worked out way down to Treasure Island because they had a free show. Turned out be a bunch of cute girls dressed in... well not very dressed at all. They were suppose to be Sirens, but I think someone found an excuse to dress them in nothing. The story wasn't great but a few of the effects were! This Fire was SO HOT!

Chloe and I just hanging out. I decided that I am not a crowd person. I would much rather walk all by myself than with a million people. You are probably saying "who wouldn't?" and that would be a very good question.

After the TI show we went and watched the Volcano explode at the Mirage.

It was another nice cool night on the Strip. there were a lot more people, which made it a lot more stressful for me. Just a warning for anyone who comes to visit: We are more than happy to go to the strip again but it will have to be on a week night or you may just get dropped off and picked up!

Terri Anne and Sam: Day 1

2011-06-27T18:08:00.000-07:00

We are finally starting to feel settled and so it is only fitting that we have friends to come and visit us in our new home. Well luckily our friends Sam and Terri Anne (accompanied by their adorable daughter Chloe) came down for a visit.

Friday night After we got off work and had some dinner we decided to do half of the strip!

Before hitting the actual strip we had to go to the mermaid show. Every half hour in a large fish tank a mermaid would magically appear.

She would do magical trucks, blow kisses and just be and amazing presence. Chloe was smitten. The mermaid also seemed pretty smitten by Chloe as well! She got a lot of attention from the mermaid and the crowd! I pretty much decided this is my dream job and since she is wearing a full body wet suit I am pretty sure immodesty is not even a concern. I am seriously considering applying!
We then headed to New York... well New York on the Strip. It was so bright and alive!

Sam, Terri Anne and Chloe on the Brooklyn Bridge
Since it was about a million degrees out (which translates to about 90 degrees) we kept going in and out of the buildings. Terri Anne and I agreed that if we lived a different lifestyle the chandelier club would be our hang out of choice (or the clubs were more wholesome I should say!). It was really beautiful.

WE were working our way down to the Bellagio for the fountain show. We made it just in time (although it was a REALLY LONG walk). the song was "I am Proud to be an America" I thought it was a weird song choice for the location but the choreography fit the song perfectly.
While Trying to decided whether or not to just turn around and call it a night (It was 10 pm and Chloe refused to sleep in the stroller!) we were bombared by a street magician. Sam and I ate it up! It was really neat. I could figure out some of the stuff but not everything. I know he does it for money... but NONE of us had any cash whatsoever. I felt bad, but he stopped us so I figure he ran the risk. If I see him again I will tip him though because he did provide a good ten minutes of fun!

On the walk back Chloe finally gave in. I love this daddy daughter shot. Terri Anne and Sam are great parents and it really shows when Chloe is so fun to be around even though she is so so so tired!

Our final stop was M&M world. It was four stories but all we need was the Wall of M (my name not theirs) It was 13.99 a pound but sometimes you have to indulge.
So I got a mixed bag of peanut, peanut butter, and pretzel M&M's. It was $4.00 but a great treat for everyone to share on the drive home.

Our feet hurt so bad by the end of the night but I was glad to finally see the strip (this was my first real experience with it!) WE chose to only do half and then do the second half the second day (post to come!)

Remaking the house: Dresser

2011-06-06T07:13:00.000-07:00

Lately my life has been pretty... Boring. I have been doing everything I can think of to try and get this house set up but no matter what I do it never seems to be enough. One project that I just recently finished was remaking a dresser I purchased on craigstlist. I spent $15.00 on the actual dresser.

I took everything out to our side yard, disassembled the hardware, and then got to spray paint ready to go! I spent $9.00 on spray paint.

This is my first spray. I was really nervous because I didn't want to sand down the wood. It would have been a lot of work, and I wasn't expecting miracles here but the more expensive spray paint did its job famously!

You can tell I had just gotten done at the gym and wanted to finish this before I went up and actually got ready for the day!

After I spray paint the entire thing I waited 6 hours and then moved it upstairs into the bedroom. It took me forever to get hardware that I thought would work okay. I also could not find the correct screw length for the life of me and had to go back and get 3 different packets of screws before they finally worked!

I spent $18.50 on hardware (more than I thought it would be!)

I really like the way it turned out. I had to repair a roller guide and a few of the drawer bottoms were falling out but overall I really think it looks nice.

I should have probably sanded it down but this dresser is a great fit for what we need it for!

Total cost: $43.50

My 24th Birthday

2011-05-29T22:25:00.000-07:00

My 24th birthday, what is there to say? I woke early, a half hour earlier than normal. Brent had set his alarm early to get up and make me breakfast. He, however, rolled over and went back to sleep and I hit the shower! When I got out though he did have breakfast waiting for me!

Work was normal until lunch when Brent brought me cake and after lunch I received a second cake at work! By the end of the day I was CAKED-OUT!

After work we went to Dinner at BJ's which came Highly recommended for good reason! I had the deep dish pizza and a side salad while Brent opted for a sandwich with fries (they messed up the fries so we got two orders!)

Brent brought the presents to dinner. He gave me three but one did not arrive in time!

First present was Cotton Candy Perfume. It is my favorite. I am not one for smelling like a slower but if I can smell the wonderful fragrance of cotton candy all day you bet I will! Maybe next they will invent a French fry perfume... or bacon...

Just chillin' at dinner! We ate outside and it was REALLY windy. I had my hair wrapped up and tucked into the back of my shirt and it still got into my face the whole time!

After dinner they gave me a free chocolate chip cookie with ice cream! The wind blew out the candle at the exact same time I did... I guess I will never know if my wish came true!

SECOND PRESENT! I have been talking about this for YEARS and Brent delivered! He purchased a day at the SPA for me! So next Saturday I will be engulfed in a day of Massage, Facial, Pedicure and Hair Cut! I am so excited I can barely contain myself! I had an inkling he would get this for me but then I really thought he had decided not to! He tricked me all right!

After an Amazing dinner, we headed home. Brent was insistent that he made me a cake. I knew this couldn't true because he hasn't had hour to string together to bake a cake! So when I got home I was pretty surprised to find this...

He had found the time to go to the store and get 7 different types of cake to make on MEGA CAKE! These cakes are my favorite so he got a German Chocolate, Red Velvet, Mud Dog, Chips Ahoy, and Mint Chocolate cake. I was so full at that moment I couldn't even think about eating a bite.... The next morning however Brent might have found me...

I didn't end up eating the whole cake but I did make it through the red velvet and German Chocolate layers (my two favorite) before throwing it away.

Yesterday, I took advantage of my spa day. It was amazing to be pampered so much! The massage was intense. I have been working out and she took the liberty of finding all the lactic acid in my body and stirring it up! It hurt, but in a good way. I had never had a facial before so that was a fun new experience. My hair cut was really nice. I decided not to change to much but to just maintain the length and give me some fun new layers.

All in all this was a great birthday! At 24, I am blessed with way to much for my own good! I am so glad that I have such an amazing husband who loves and supports me (from travelling the world, working out, reading compulsively, to eating cake at 7 am, and all my crazy talk about going back to school!)

I have a feeling 24 is going to be a good year. It will be hard to top 23 though!

Our New Home!

2011-05-19T21:42:00.001-07:00

Our little piece of Paradise! Here is a post about our new home. I have posted a TON of pictures (at my dads request, since he technically owns it!) I hope it is enough. Here is the outside!

Another view!

Here is the downstairs from the dining area section(back of the house). On the right is a door that leads into the garage, and to the left is a door that leads into a coat closet. If you look for the door to the left of the stairs, that is the downstairs bathroom.

Here is the downstairs bathroom! Pretty basic, but I like it!

Here is the dining area. To the left is the kitchen but we had plumbers working on it so no pictures yet!

Here is the whole downstairs, taken from the switchback halfway up the stairs. Gorgeous right? Now we just need some furniture!

Here is the stairs from the top. The switch back was not that bad for getting the couch up the stairs!

Here is the upstair landing. We haven't set up anything yet.

Here is another view from the back cut out corner. In the door on the left is the laundry room, and the one on the right is the guest bedroom!

If you go up the stair and take a left to the very first door you will find this! Our Laundry room! It is wonderful!

Okay so here are three of the four doorways in our upstairs. I will number them 1, 2, and 3 from left to right. The Laundry Room is Left of door number one.

Door number 1!!! This is the second bedroom. Taken from the doorway. To the right is the closet, to the left is the window!

This is the window in the Guest bedroom

This is the closet in the guest bedroom

This is door number 2. The guest bathroom!

Finally in door number 3 is the bedroom!

On the right side you can see that we have a lovely balcony!

This is VERY close to our neighbors! This is basically how all the houses we saw are! Caliah loves being outside!

This is our bedroom Balcony! Caliah is making an appearance! She is loving the new house!

Here is our bedroom. On the right of this photo there is a balcony, and to the left it is vanity, bathroom, and closet. Don't worry there are pictures but I like to try to give you some orientation.

Here is our vanity. On the right of the vanity is the shower and bathroom, on the left is the closet.

This is our upstairs closet. It is directly across the vanity from the bathroom. We have so many clothes, it is INSANE!

This is our bathroom! It is a shower and tub combo, and the toilet is to the right of the shower.

Here is the tub. I have refused to take a bath at any apartment we have lived at up until this point. I have actually already taken a bath here! AMAZING!

This is the downstairs coat closet.

This is the back patio. To access this, simply go out through the dining room sliding glass door! All the boxes are the empty one's that we have unpacked!

This is behind the house. So technically, this is my backyard. Notice how the air conditioner separates one of the side yard from the other one? This backyard is not exactly made for entertaining!

If you are looking at our house this is the right side.

If you continue Right the is the side yard. That back gate though it for the neighbor. Notice the little door on the side? That is a storage unit underneath the stairs!

And Finally, this is the Left side of the house. The gate is currently broken, so that back yard is ours!

So here it is! I hope that it was coherent enough to give everyone a good idea but I am so tired, there could be a lot of mistakes! Sorry!

Moving

2011-05-09T00:02:00.000-07:00

The move. Less that 24 hours after graduation we packed up and moved. It was intense. 80% of everything we owned was already in boxes so we rented a u-haul and packed up the rest.

I included this picture to show you how good of quality the pictures are with Brent's new camera.

Brent's mom was great at helping up clean everything up!

We have a steam mop but to be honest they do not really work all that well. I put down some cleanser (which you are not suppose use with the steam mop) and we clothe skated around and the floors got like a million time cleaner. We had to get inventive but eventually we managed to get it all cleaned.

After it was all clean Brent left for Vegas, and I left for Oregon! I have no pictures of my trip but Brent took a couple.

Brent did so much! He unpacked our entire u-haul trailer into a storage unit and checked into a hotel until our house closes.

He also took Caliah. He is up for sainthood for doing that! She has been doing a really amazing job at not being to annoying.

While Brent was starting a new job/life in Vegas, I was in Oregon Hanging out with the Family. I had a great time spending the weekend with family. The house got pretty full since we were only missing Brent, Blair, and Blake. I love seeing the family, but I am such a needy person and just miss Brent to much to be gone from him very long.

We had all the boys! so here is the break down....

Austin: SUPER SMILEY. He is a really happy baby, and amazing at manipulating his parents to let him stay up late! He loves riding on your shoulders and I would do anything to see that little boy smile (although it doesn't take much)

Brody: He is more pensive and reserved than his Brother. He keeps to himself more but it a great observer of the situations around him. He would wake up every morning pretty early which ruined his Mom's sleep but I don't blame him. I never sleep well when I am somewhere new either!

Braden: Man this is the age that I love the most! Braden was great. He is so curious about everything and although he takes a day or two to warm up he really is willing to learn and be interactive when it comes to anything. He was so much fun to watch and interact with. He is a smart little boy and I can't wait to see what mischievousness he gets into in the future!

Fond Memories:

Mallory: "I love you Braden"

Braden: "I love my mom"

While Maren was sleeping Braden helped me fix the car, pack my bags, read stories, play games and clean. Whenever he got bored he entertained himself. Amazing little boy.

Shopping spree with my mom. We went to the outlets and she took me in and finally got me started on a "professional wardrobe!"

Enchanted Forest with Braden We went through the rabbit hole and at one point he was to scared to continue. Luckily he was willing to sit on my lap and scoot until we heard grandma's voice.

Having Austin on my shoulders with his little hands grabbing holding my hair to balance himself! It was amazing.

Austin acting like a little angel from 7:00 pm until 10:00 pm because he knew one wrong mood and he would be in bed.

Sharing countless oranges, puddings and other assorted foods with Brody through out the entire week.

Watching Shark Tank with the Family. Man none of us our in the business world but we surely enjoy watching people who are beg for money!

It was a great week for me, and Brent managed his first week of work! I am always happy to get back to Brent but I always start counting down the days to the next family reunion!

Chatching Up: Graduation

2011-05-08T23:05:00.000-07:00

It has been nearly a month since I have blogged, so I figured it was time to play catch up since basically everything has changed. So here is one in the many line of "Catch up" Blogs.

Brent's Graduation:

Well we (meaning Brent) did it! He finished Law School. He didn't have anything he really wanted from me, so I promised him a good lunch out where ever he wanted. He chose to go to a Shabu Shabu house. This is classic Japanese. They slice very thin meat and you dip it twice in a boiling broth (imagine the sound effect "Shabu shabu") and then you eat!

This was a very interactive meal. We all enjoyed creating our own broth, adding the spices, cooking the veggies, and meat, eating rice and then adding noodles to make a soup for desert!

It took about an hour and a half to eat everything. We got the lunch special for everyone and it was more than enough food! I couldn't believe it!

We also tried the Kobe Beef. Kobe Beef is considered really special since the cows are treated really well. It was delicious but the fine things are lost on me! I couldn't taste a difference.

Brent Parents! Brent's Dad really enjoyed this place! His mom and I asked for a fork, and then WE also really enjoyed it!

Brent and I. He did a great job helping me figure everything out.

We walked around campus for the last time, since we both left Saturday morning.... EARLY! then it was off to Graduation.

SO ANNOUNCING THE 2011

J. Reuben Clark Law School Class of 2011

Over 150 students.

All of the speakers were pretty good except the Key note speaker. She said that the biggest issue Brent's class will have to deal with is the fall out of the research currently being done about the carrying capacity of the earth... ya I am not so sure how that is.

Brent with the dean! He has a hood on and everything! Apparently, he has a red robe because Harvards colors are Red, so if Brent ever dons the robe again his will be black.

We took some pictures around campus! We are so grateful to Brent's Parents. They got Brent a very nice Nikon D 3100 camera with two lenses! We are talking a $1000 dollars worth of dream camera! Brent was blown away.

They have been so supportive through these last four years, words can not even express how amazing they have been!

And here he is. I am so proud of what he has accomplished. He has worked very hard through these years and although he never complained about it being hard I know that he is relieved it is over. I know this was the first step in the plan that our Heavenly Father has set up for us and I am so glad Brent had the strength and testimony to dedicate the last three years to this!

I am so very proud of him.

To be honest, the past three years was not as hard as I was expecting. Everyone talks about Law School as if it is amazingly difficult but Brent and I really enjoyed our time. We were given some great opportunities to stretch, grow, explore, and sacrifice and I am really glad that we did, but overall I think we could have done it again.

In fact, I am would rather do two more years as "students" than enter the real world. I was good at student life, who knows what I am going to do with real life!

Wish us (mainly me!) luck!!!!

Conference Breakfast

2011-04-09T19:26:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite celebrations we missed while we were in Europe was our Conference Breakfast Tradition. Usually, we get together with Sam and Terri Anne for Sunday morning conference and make breakfast and then listen to morning session. This time, however, Terri Anne was out of town so we had the pleasure of having Sam over for BOTH sessions!

Menu: Omelets, hash browns, sausage and OJ

I wasn't even allowed into the Kitchen while they were cooking!

The outcome! Sam is an AMAZING omelet chef!

The boys always enjoy themselves WAY to much!

After an amazing breakfast I cleaned the kitchen as Sam and Brent found other employment....

Pretty awesome huh? The made 4-5 of these and then built battleships and castles.

While they were goofing off I was in charged of making dinner... HOMEMADE PIZZA!!!

The dough took about 3 hours because I was trying a new recipe.

After an amazing afternoon session we got to enjoy the spoils of my hard work!

The best part of our tradition is getting to listen to conference together. I always like to hear what stood out to other people and talk about the messages that we have heard.

The food isn't bad either though! I am hoping people will come visit us every conference weekend so we can keep this trend alive!

Brent Extra Curriculars

2011-04-09T19:03:00.000-07:00

Man, what can I say about Brent. He is smart, funny and has about a millions hobbies. This boy could entertain himself for years with the hobbies he currently has AND he is finding new ones everyday. I can barely keep up!

Lately, two have taken up the majority of his time. First is his inter-mural flag football team with his law school buddies! There last game was this past Wednesday.

I usually skip it because after working, going to the gym, cleaning and everything else I do... I am tired. Since it was his last, however, I made and appearance!

They ended up losing the game. Brent said there were to many guys there and it was FREEZING so when he was waiting his turn he just wanted to get warm and therefore he didn't have a good game. I am guessing this is pretty accurate since it looked like no one had a good game.

Brent second hobbie is Ju Jitsu. This semester he decided to take a ju jitsu class at BYU. I thought it would be fun and encouraged him. Today, was his end of the semester tournament.

Stretching out...

In his GI...

The tournament was REALLY REALLY poorly organized. I was sitting around in the same chair for roughly 6 hours. This is what I was doing for some of it.

This is Brent's first fight. It was against a guy who was about 30-40 pounds heavier and had been training for 11 months (5 days a week).

I was super impressed because Brent kept this guy on his toes.

There were no rounds, it was a fight until submission. His first fight was over in about 5 minutes but Brent said he was exhausted after 20 seconds!

This is his second fight. There were roughly 5 hours in between and after calling him up to fight, he had to wait another 1.5 hours until he actually did. Any energy he had built up was gone after that wait!

That fight took about a minute until the other guy (who had also been training ALOT more than Brent) got him into a lucky Arm Bar.

Doesn't he look tired?

This kid is so willing to try everything. I am glad to announce that he is done fighting because the tournament was just not fun at all. He did really well and I am proud that he took the initiative to try something new!

Planetarium

2011-04-03T08:36:00.001-07:00

So yesterday Brent and I had the chance to go up to Salt Lake and visit with Jennifer and Jake, who were down going to a concert! We started off at Tucano's, which is always delicious! After a nice hour and a half of food we went over to the Clark Planetarium! I had never been there. This one only made money off of their shows so the rest of the exhibits were free!

Brent on the Moon!

Brent chillin on Mars

Me on the moon! Can you see the phone that is hidden? I was talking to my mom about our upcoming trip! I wonder if my mom realizes I am doing this type of stuff whenever we talk!

Brent is learning what the sun looks like from different planets! Did you know the further away you get the less bright it is? I know, I was surprised too!

In the gift shop! I really wanted both of these!

ALIEN GLASSES!

After some fun planetarium time we made sure to walk around the Gateway!

It was a fun filled afternoon! It is always fun doing something that is there but has been neglected! Thank you Planetarium for being free and AMAZING!

Festival of Colors Take Two

2011-03-28T21:54:00.001-07:00

With Brent's graduation coming quickly, I began to realize this life we are currently living is coming to an end. To commemorate that I "dragged" Brent to the Krishna Holi Festival Colors!

This is about 2 minutes after arriving. Last time I went with Jenny no one had their colors out until the throwing ceremony, but this time was different! Everyone had their colors out and we were hit before we knew it!

Along with Brent Jenny and Kathrine came too!

Before we jumped into the festivities we had to check out the animals. I had never seen a peacock with its feather extended, it was really amazing.

This is still before the throwing, but you can tell we are in the action now! It felt like Woodstock mixed with a rave

Brent, not shy about showing his true colors.

Here is what the chaos looked like.

Afterward. Jenny got this picture before I was fully smiling! At least my teeth aren't purple!

Katherine is COVERED!

This is what the temple looks like. I have been lucky enough to be there a few times, and usually it is a very serene place. Not today!

As we were walking to the car. They had throwings every two hours so we were able to leave after the second one and not fight traffic all the way home!

This is one of the festivals that I will really miss and have loved being apart of! I can not believe how lucky I am to live in a place that has something like this is so close. What a great way to do something different, inexpensive, and exotic!

5 K and Day Date

2011-03-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I did something I never thought I would do... I ran/walked a 5 k. now this may not be to surprising, I mean 5 k isn't that far but I really hate running probably more than anything. So why would I run a 5 k? Well at work they are having a "fitness Olympics". For every day you work out for 30 minutes you get 1 point and the "Olympics" ended with a 5 k which counted as 28 points. Well I am not one to throw away easy points so I participated.

It was really fun, my friend Mike and I set a good mixture of walking and running. I let Mike decide when we were running and walking. I hate running so when Mike would go I would be begging him to stop in my head!
After my 5 K and hanging out with work for a while it was time for day date! He packed an amazing lunch of my favorite foods! Salad, chicken salad with fresh bread, potato salad, and chocolate cake?! This man is AMAZING!

After so yummy lunch we felt spring in the air and brought out the bocci balls!

Rules of the Game: Throw a little white ball, then each player takes turns trying too get their larger colored balls closest to the little white one. The ball closest to the little white one win the person 1 point. If the second closest ball is belongs to the same person then they get 2 points!

Brent absolutely killed me. When it was my turn I was either an Olympian of unbelievable portions or the weakest person to ever grace the planet. It was embarrassing!
Overall it was a great Saturday. I got to feel good about accomplishing something new and then have some great time with my favorite person in the entire world!

Confession

2011-03-14T21:03:00.001-07:00

I have a confession... This is one I hope Brent won't log on and read.

Ready for it?

I am ready for another Foreign adventure. I know, I know we just got back from a 12 country sprint through Europe. I got to see the Ruins of Rome, Temple of Zeus, Platform 9 3/4, Auschwitz, The Vatican, Salt Mines, Small Canal Town in France, Cathedrals and so many other staples in history which was one of the most rewarding and stressful experiences of my life!

(IF YOU MISSED IT, CHECK IT OUT UNDER 2010 FROM SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER)

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It was amazing getting to see and experience those things but something very distinct was missing: The Natural World. Being surrounded by tall buildings was great but Brent and I really missed the beauty of the land. So yes, I am ready for another foreign adventure, but I have a little different place in mind!

NEW ZEALAND!!!!!

This scenery is amazing, the vast country side (as seen in the LOR Triology) looks amazing. It also houses the adventure capital of the world (Wellington) and being an Island I can only imagine outstanding beaches!

AND AUSTRALIA!!!!!

More Specifically the Great Barrier Reef. Who doesn't want to swim with the fishes, sea turtles and experience something so great it is seen from space?

There is my confession. I have seen the world, and I am addicted. Some of you may know it is a life goal to visit all Seven Continents (yes, even Antarctica) and I think I am currently ready to check Oceania off that list.

If Anyone has suggestions about where in the world I should head next I would love to hear about it!

Distractions:Racquet and Foosball

2011-03-07T20:07:00.000-08:00

Brent has been busy! He took the MPRE (ethics portion of the bar exam), applying for jobs, and trying to keep on top of school. He is being such a champ. It is hard for me to watch because there isn't any really way I can help besides being supportive AND providing many fun distractions.

One distraction is Racquetball! The Orem Recreation Center. Brent and I have always talked about playing so for his Birthday I gave him a date of competition!

Brent always talks about how his old girlfriend was terrible at Racquetball, so I had to step it up and prove I am way better than her in EVERY WAY!

Although I have only played once before in my life, I was pretty decent. I won the first round, Brent won the second round. Then we just messed around for a while!

It really got my heart rate going, and the next day EVERYTHING was sore. I couldn't move my eyeballs with out them hurting! I am pretty sure this is because trying to keep track of that little blue ball is pretty impossible!

The second fun past time I have taken and interest in is: foosball. It is huge at work. Blake (my brother in law) is amazing at ping pong because his work had a table and everyone played. My work is similar except with foosball. It is intense, and I am absolutely the worst person in the office.

Here are the rules:

Two teams of 2 people.

One 14 minute round

Two balls are inserted at once

Score both balls=1 point

Each team scores 1 ball=No points

At the end of the game you put 5 balls onto the table (ALL BALL). If you are down by one and score all 5 balls in ALL BALL you win!

I have been smitten with this game ever since I started being terrible, but I convinced Erica, Spencer and Brent to play with me at the Law School Foos Table! The actual table was pretty ghetto and could have used some love but everyone enjoyed it! Especially Spencer!

Brent has been working really hard, and I have been working so it is really nice to have some different fun activities to distract us from the stresses of life!

DOES ANYONE ELSE HAVE ANY GOOD DISTRACTIONS WE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT?

Over Eating?

2011-02-21T14:23:00.000-08:00

I have a new job, and exactly a week after starting I was convinced by Lianne (as well as Derek, Kurt and Mike) to attempt the 24 inch challenge! This consists of eating a 24 inch sub sandwich in under 30 minutes! To the victor went a T-shirt, picture on the wall, as well as free drinks for life!

It started out pretty good. I would say I even enjoyed the first 6 inches!

Joining Lianne and Myself was Trevor and Mike. Mike finished his in 7 minutes flat! It was amazing! I bet he could have done it again to! Trevor finished in 26 minutes.

I was feeling really good up until the halfway point and then the saltiness of the turkey hit me. Every bite I took I almost threw up, I was worrying everyone! Do you see that trash can behind me? I took the last few bites standing over it up in case.

Lianne did great. It took her about 28 minutes to finish. She also had turkey and said it tasted terrible as well!

I finally took off the remaining turkey and just swallowed it like a pill. Sometimes that is the only way to get it down!

There were no good pictures of me, but Kurt did get a nice long interview of me as the whole process went down!

In the end I finished 2nd, with 21 minutes 30 seconds! I got the T-Shirt and the picture, although I am not sure I will ever be returning to claim any free drinks! I didn't get a chance to tell Brent all about it before hand, so after he just said "Okay, so now we have to go back so I can do it too!" Funny thing is, my mom totally predicted that reaction!!!

Needless to say, I have been a little careless in my eating lately! The diet started yesterday and I want 5 pounds gone by April 1st!

BYU Basketball Game!

2011-02-13T14:30:00.000-08:00

Have you heard that BYU Basketball is actually fairly noteworthy this year? It is mainly because of a player named James Fredette (JIMMER). He is 6' 2" and looks like he should play tennis not basketball, but the kid is amazing! Since this is Brent's last semester we decided to go to one last game before he graduates!

We went with two of our friends, Sam and Terri Anne. They have an adorable daughter named Chloe. I love this little girl like she is my niece! She is so wonderful and she has such amazing parents. Unfortunately, she was uninvited to the game, but got to spend some quality time with her cousins!

At the game. The Marriot Center didn't really fill up until 3 minutes before game time! Sam, looking sharp as always!

I wasn't expecting and introduction like this! The white curtains fell and there was a movie, music and light show to get the audience stoked!

At the game!

This is who it was all about. he had a really hard first half and only scored 5 points by half time (he averages 30 points a game). In the second half BYU was doing better but Jimmer was still struggling. Finally, he hit a gorgeous fade-away 3 and it was like everything clicked. You could tell he was stressed but after that is was just natural looking. He ended the game with 23 points and BYU won 71-59!

I typically rush to the car to beat traffic but we decided to wait for the victory bell to be rung. We thought it was going to be the player of the game, Charles Abouo, but it turned out to be someone we didn't know, named Logan.

Waiting for the magic!

TERRI ANNE! IT DID TURN OUT CUTE!

The one and only Cosmo! He is a pretty impressive mascot!

Here is what we live next to! Europe sure did help us to appreciate nature more!

After the game, we made milkshakes and watched the office. The exhaustion was overwhelming.

It was great to be able to participate in BYU sports one last time! I hope we continue to do well, because it may make March Madness bearable!

What a Bum!

2011-02-13T14:24:00.000-08:00

Brent and I have been back from Europe for over a month now, and the idea of blogging still makes me shutter! Not only am I a little worn out, but I also feel that anything we are up to right now doesn't quite reach the coolness factor of Greece, Krakow and London. Well it is just time for me to Buck up, because some things have changed!

First, I got a job! I work for a company call property solutions. We design websites for property management companies. If you are every looking for an apartment complex online, you will probably stumble upon one of our sites. I really love it. The work is really interesting and just creative enough to not get to mundane. Everyone in the company is obsessed with foosball, so I play it on my breaks and usually during lunch. I AM TERRIBLE! Everyone is so nice to still be on my team, but one day I will be super good!

Second, Brent is still looking for a job, all over the US. The law market is really suffering right now, so if you feel inclined to pray that he can find something good I would appreciate it!

Third, Brent and I were just called to be Sunday School teachers for ALL the youth. Apparently, there is only about 8 of them!

Finally, Nope there really isn't a finally. I thought there was and yet there isn't!

We are slowly moving along, but I think Brent and I are both ready for this last semester to be over! Wish us luck!

Happy Birthday Brent

2011-01-22T20:27:00.000-08:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENT!

Yesterday was Brent's Birthday! He is officially 27 years old, but doesn't look a day older than 26!

Since I haven't been working I took a lot of time to plan out some fun birthday activities, unfortunately on last Sunday during church Brent started feeling sick. Monday was a holiday so he just stayed in but Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday were bad. Luckily, by Friday he was feeling a bit better, but not much!

We ended up going out with Erica and Spencer to Red Robin, to get Brent's fee meal, and then back to our place for presents and games!

The Birthday Boy with his oldest and youngest! I love Caliah's little face!

This is Brent's Present from Momma and Papa Forsberg. Brent has been wanting this game really bad!

Here is Brent's present from me! It is a coupon for one day to racquetball and dinner or desert! I thought I was so creative because Brent is always wanting to play racquetball but when I gave it to him he just seem totally confused! I guess the amazing present that I thought I gave didn't really land!

Caliah gave Brent a new Gillette razor with 5 blades! His Mom and Dad made sure to send him a cute card and some spending money for new church shoes!

Today we went up to play with our friends Sam and Terri Anne! Bohnanza and fast scrabble are great ways to spend an afternoon!

Brent says he had a great Birthday weekend but he has been super sick so he has really done a great job humoring me! I LOVE YOU BRENT AND I AM EXCITED TO MAKE THIS BEST YEAR OF HIS LIFE!

The New Year!

2011-01-05T19:17:00.000-08:00

Happy NEW YEAR! I know I know, this is a little late, but I figure it is better late than never. Honestly, for the New Year Brent and I were asleep by 9:30 pm. Jet lag sucks. So I thought we would post a few of our Resolutions from last year and a few for this up-coming year!

Mallory 2010:

Travel to another continent- When I made that goal I had no idea that Budapest was even an option. It was really a huge blessing, and many blog post!

Lose 15-20 pounds and Keep it off- I am so proud of myself. I feel a whole lot more confident and healthy. Now I am trying to maintain and get toned, the battle is still not over!

Have 2010-2011 Tuition saved up- My goal to end lawschool debt free looks like it will be coming true! I am really proud of Brent and me! Even with Europe we were still able to pay for Law School without any loans!

Brent 2010:

Read 25 books- He more than accomplished this. We were both in a huge reading zone this year! It was really nice

Read the New Testament- President Monsen challenged us to do this and Brent took it to heart, I am still working on it!

Mallory 2011-
Read "Jesus the Christ", Take a relaxing vacation (sorry Europe was very high stress, but worth every second of it!), Visit 4 new temples,, and take and EMT Class.

Brent 2011-
Read the Old Testament, Read 40 Books, Stay under 193 lbs, 1 act of service a month, Take Mallory on a date 1 a month (no I did not put him up to this, but I am excited!).

I thought New Years Resolutions were really stupid when I was younger. I always figured if you wanted to change you could start anytime. Although that is true, I like having the New Year as a starting point. I set ten goals last year and I accomplished 7 of them, this year I am going for 8! Wish me luck!

Copenhagen: Day 1

2010-12-25T10:33:00.000-08:00

The biggest mistake I made on this Europe trip was choosing to go to Copenhagen... In the winter. Copenhagen looks like it is a beautiful town, and it really was but with my feet wet and freezing I was in no mood to see it! On Christmas, I dragged myself out to see the town and after about an hour in 15 degree weather, I was past my pushing point! I don't remember names of places, so it will basically be looking at pictures Brent took!

A Church Right by our Hostel.

Brent thought this was so funny. Every time we passed it he would laugh and make a comment. The funny thing to me is it was a milk billboard... Needless to say, we stayed away from milk just to be safe!

A statue next to the canal.

The frozen Canal. A lot of birds had found a place to make home! It looked really peaceful, and freezing.

This is a Castle now turned museum.

Another church, that we went inside.

AS we were inside people started to show up for Christmas Mass, as we were bundling up to leave it started... I was tempted to stay but we just snuck out. I don't think to many people noticed!

These are the Navy Housing (or used to be). They are really cute house! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing a ton of them all lined up in a row!

Another Church outside the Citadel.

These are the Palace Guards. In Copenhagen there are four Palaces, each built in a different time, but all identical.

Here is a shot of the middle of the Palace Octagon! Literally, it was an octagon and each of the four palaces were built around a different wall!

This is Brent's Favorite pictures in all of Europe! It is really pretty.

The spire in the background is spiraling to represent the Ascension into heaven. Well the Architect built it and then realized if two people were to sword fight up the spire, they would have to be left handed, no right handed. Since that is rare he considered his spiral a failure and killed himself!

This is a Coat of Arms that was inside the Justice, Legislative, and Executive building in Copenhagen. Copenhagen is the only city in the world where the three branches share a building!

Just so everyone understands how cold it was our wate froze solid while we were out there.

In total we probably walked around 10-12 kilometers. Honestly, the walking wasn't bad. The walking in deep snow, slipping and sliding, with freezing cold feet made it a miserable day. Brent and I had both had better Christmas's and at this point were ready to be home!

Ferney-Voltaire

2010-12-25T10:10:00.000-08:00

After a wonderful day of exploring Annecy, Brent and I were excited to spend a quiet day around the hotel. Instead of going back into Geneva we spent most of the day in our hotel room catching up on everything and mapping out what we wanted to do in Copenhagen.

We did, however, get out to see the town we were staying in, Ferney-Voltaire.

This was a charming little poster we saw!

The only church we saw in the town! It was pretty cute. It was closed, but we enjoyed it anyway!

The one noteable thing in Ferney- Voltaire is a Chateau. We hiked up to the Chateau. This hill was actually really steep. Brent is always surprised when I make it to the top with no complaints... how much of a wuss does he think I am?

The Chateau turned out to be closed (like everything else in the town!). It was really pretty and we wished we could have gotten a better look!

On the way back down we stopped by the Cemetery. This one was really neat. Since it was on a hill everything looked much more dramatic!

The saddest thing we found was a child grave yard. We have seen a ton of graveyards and have managed to never visit one. It was really sad.

Brent did find his grave stone! It is very cool!

I also found mine. I really want mine to have a little place for a garden built in! I really really enjoyed it!

We had a great time just taking it easy! We were only out for a couple of hours but in reality it was just what we wanted for the day! A great time exploring a little town, and a nice way to say goodbye to Geneva and France!

Awful Start to AMAZING Annecy

2010-12-23T05:05:00.000-08:00

FIRST ANNECY POST!!! THERE ARE 7 IN TOTAL BUT THEY GO IN ORDER THIS TIME! CHECK THEM ALL OUT!

Geneva ended rough. Running around a city you don't know is rough, but we figured out how to get to the bus station to catch our 7:40 am bus. So at 5:30 the alarm went off. We got up, got dressed, grabbed the camera, tickets and our lunch for the day. We walked the 25 minutes (we had to walk fast:( ) to catch our bus, once we got to our bus stop we discovered that stop was closed for a street market. We sprinted to the next closest bus stop and luckily, made it!

We took the bus 25 minutes to the main train station, just missed the tram we were suppose to catch but got on the next one, which was fine. When we got off the tram, we couldn't find the train station. We asked around and were told it was only a block away. I am pretty used to these type of hiccups now so it isn't to bothersome.

We were told we would catch the bus to Annecy, France, at the smaller train station in Geneva. Turns out the "smaller" one really meant deserted one. We tried to find someone to ask where we caught the bus but we couldn't find anyone. Brent told me to stay where I was and he would go try and find someone. I am used to this, he will usually jog about a block and come right back, but this time he left and 5 minutes passed and it was 7:40 no bus and no Brent. The ten minutes passed and I started to get worried that the bus would arrive and Brent wouldn't be back. Then 15 minutes passed and I was just scared there was no Brent, forget the bus! At this point I started yelling his name, like a crazy person. Another 5 minutes and I started to get little panicked. Did I mention Brent had all the money, passports and EVERYTHING with him. After 25 minutes alone in a dark foreign country I started to cry, trying to not look to crazy while I yelled for him. I was absolutely terrified. I had no idea what to do, or what I should have done if the bus arrived or how I would call my mom if Brent didn't turn up.

Just then a train pulls into the station and who hops off but Brent. I guess he had jumped on to ask for help, but the doors shut behind him and he had to ride it a stop before he could get back on another one to come back.

Needless to say, I was happy he was back, but was in no mood to even look at him. Less than 5 minutes after he got back, the bus arrived. It was 40 minutes late. It was a miracle because we were still able to catch the bus despite the international incident!

This picture is me on the bus still not being in a very photogenic mood.

Luckily, the day got better from there!

Enchanting Annecy

2010-12-23T04:50:00.000-08:00

#6 ANNECY POST

As I mentioned, Annecy was full of very picturesque views. Seriously, this is what you see in picture books except it is real, and all over the place, and not dirty! Here are some of my favorite pictures that were taken.

The Canal looking out to the lake.

Brent overlooking the rooftops as we were walking down from the chateau.

From the top of the hill next to the bascillica. A wonderful view of the swiss alps!

Brent and the swiss alps!

A wonderful little cove right of the main street!

A Swan, oh did I mention they have wild swans here? They were EVERYWHERE! At one point I looked in a canal and saw three swan butts because they were all diving for food!

The Canal that goes straight through town.

The Prison all lit up at night!

It was such a wonderful day. Everywhere I looked made me feel like I was in a magical place, or in a movie! It was such a wonderful experience!

French Food

2010-12-23T04:43:00.000-08:00

#3 ANNECY POST

Do you ever wak up knowing, today is going to be an eating day. No matter what you would like to do with your day, you will always want to eat more! Well that was our day in Annecy for me! Luckily, Brent was more than willing to accommodate me!

it started with a chocolate covered bear shaped marshmallow.
For Lunch we bought some sweet Bread and Caprius de deux. This cheese was recommended to us by Cade, our native french man. It was delicious, and we saved it for dinner the next night too!

Then we had to try a french pastry. This one was heaven. I couldn't pick out all the different flavors but I didn't have to! It was to wonderful to describe. I would love it if I tasted nothing else but that for a very long while!

Later we had dinner of Kebabs. We keep trying to match the ones we at one in Greece, but it just hasn't happened. I think we will need to make a return trip just to have the Kebab-y goodness again. They had a French Fry Spear. I refused to use my hands, because in france you use your French Fry spear to eat your french fries!

Later we caved and got two more pastries. The one on the right was our only mistake. It was pure, rich painfully thick chocolate. We both left with a stomach ache.

We had a lot of food. We did share everything, so we weren't eating to terribly, but we should have had two pastries less and a few fruits more. France is a wonderful place to eat, and although I do not like to splurge often, this one really was a great time!

Annecy: The Lake and Prison

2010-12-23T04:30:00.000-08:00

#2 ANNECY POST

The bus ride to Annecy was 1 hour and twenty minutes. Since I had been crying, I was in a daze, which Brent let me sleep off. I was actually worried about visiting Annecy because it is a pretty small town for spending 11 hours, which is how long we had until our bus home left.

It was suppose to be raining all day, but this is the weather we got! This is the lake with the mountains in the background!
I like to relax while Brent spends time trying to get the perfect "artsy" shot. When we are short on time I get worried but the whole day was just about relaxing!

Brent on the pier with a small island from the lake. I think the mist added so much to this morning view!

The gorgeous canal. There are two canal's that go through the town.

This is a view of the lake, through the archway.

The most famous item in Annecy is the Prison in the Canal. How gorgeous is this? I absolutely love, it! This town is totally picturesque.

Annecy was starting out as a really fun, relaxing day. We didn't have to much planned and it seemed to be okay!

Bascillica and Chateau

2010-12-23T04:16:00.000-08:00

#4 ANNECY POST

After exploring the Prison and the Lake, we climb a huge hill to visit the Bascillica. How perfect is this picture? What I really enjoyed about this day trip, is the lack of rush. Brent and I would just sit and talk for 15-20 minutes whenever we wanted to!

The inside was beautful. I am pretty sure that there was some sort of service going on, but if you turn of the flash and lay low you can get some pretty good pictures anyway!

Another monumental church interior. I love how each spire is different!
While we were climbing down.

This is the Chateau. We got there right as it was closing for its 12:00-2:00 pm break.

We didn't make it back up the hill, but it was an interior decorating exhibit inside, so we weren't missing out on to much!

The Chateau from the bottom of the hill! I love how it looks like it is coming out of the roof tops.
The Basilica and the Chateau were both beautiful and well kept. We were starting to really really enjoy France.

Annecy Church and Cemetary

2010-12-23T03:51:00.000-08:00

#5 ANNECY POST

On street level of Anncey there was another church.

This was painted on the wall next to the cross. Brent and I both have no idea what it is suppose me mean or symbolize! Any ideas?

This is the church. I love all the warm colors. Since it was in the 40's outside, a nice warm (looking) interior really lifted our spirits.

After the Church we headed over to the cemetary. This is my chosen grave. I love the simplistic lines.

This is the grave I told Brent would get if he dies now, mainly because plank of wood would be all we could afford after all of Europe!

This is Brent's chosen grave!

Why is there a little door on this one? Does a dog live in here also?

After the Cemetary, we began looking for a spoon, and a pen. At the Little Christmas market, I found a little Bracelet for my sister!

I can not explain how much of a wonderful day this was!