the "seattle" schienbeins

Happy Halloween

2010-10-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from the Seattle Schienbeins, everyone!

Dylan, with his newly missing teeth looking fierce!

Sweet "Pumpkin Head" Rowan, the MOST adorable nephew EVER

...

2010-08-13T22:04:00.000-07:00

this has been a impossibly tough week.

emotionally draining for lots of reasons...too complicated and frustrating to sit down and explain.

but also exceptionally difficult because people we love dearly are also struggling.

where would we be without the endless ocean of support of our friends and family?

catastrophically lost, I'm certain.

but we press on, hopeful that the coming days and weeks will be filled with good news and positive change.

Already behind...

2010-07-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

we staycationed this year instead of hitting the road this year...and it was a LOT of fun.

our great pals, The Montgomerys, staycationed with us this year and we decided to divide up our days so that each of us planned one whole day for the whole group.

I chose for us to be tourists in our own city...breakfast at Portage Bay Cafe in South Lake Union followed by a trip on Ride the Ducks, a food tour of the Pike Place Market, dinner at Stell's and dessert at Simply Desserts. so, yeah, we basically just ate all day. ;)

On to the ducks!...(photos courtesy of Erich since he was sitting by the "window")

The Space Needle (across the street from the Duck Launch)

One of the MANY Starbucks we saw on our journey...Cha-Ching!

Along the waterfront for awhile and this is what Erich snaps a picture of.

Qwest Field-Home of the Seattle Seahawks and the Seattle Sounders

Safeco Field-Home of the Seattle Mariners

An old ivy-covered building in Belltown

A dude with a rad 'fro

A closed Seattle institution...The Lusty Lady

The Pink Elephant Car Wash, which we learned is the oldest drive thru car was in America

Heading into the water at Lake Union...and also where we found our next home

Seattle skyline from the middle of Lake Union

Gasworks Park

Experience The Music Project - across the street from the Duck launch

the ginger-haired bully sitting in front of Josh who we all would've gladly thrown overboard.

On to the food tour of the Pike Place Market!

The tour is through Savor Seattle Food Tours

Our stops:

Spring Rolls

Hot Mini-Donuts

Smoked Salmon

"Never Believe A Man With A Pink Umbrella"- Pike Place fish mongers

Our tour guide...with his pink umbrella!

Seasonal local fruit

Clam Chowder and Lobster Bisque

Piroshkies

Homemade Cheese on Homemade Crackers & Spicy Mac 'n Cheese

Crab Cake bites

Me in my natural environment...doing karate in a "bamboo forest". one of the many pieces of public art in Seattle

$10 bouquet from Pike Place

Josh & Teresa at the musical fountain at the Seattle Center

Erich & me

we weren't sure if we'd be too full from the food tour to have dinner afterwards, but it turns out that the combination of small samples and all the walking equals massive hunger! we decided to head to Stell's, across the street from SPU (where I work). Stell, the owner, is always working and is such a sweetheart. oh, and the food is amazing! (no pics...too busy eating and talking!)

last stop was Simply Desserts in Fremont to grab some desserts to go. we knew that by the time we got back up to the lake house that we'd be ready for sweets.

stuffed, happy and exhausted we all hit the sack...it was a great day!

visit with the "portland" schienbeins

2010-06-26T21:40:00.000-07:00

so one of the most A.M.A.Z.I.N.G things that happened this past year is the birth of our nephew, Rowan James Schienbein. Rowan's parents are Erich's brother, Thomas, and Thomas's wife, Monique.

his birth story is pretty amazing. the fact that Rowan is here today alive and well is a testament to Monique's diligent and selfless bedrest for what seemed like forever. And Rowan was still born at 33 1/2 weeks.

but this baby Schienbein is now healthy and growing like, well, a Schienbein.

the whole fam came up to Seattle today and we got to visit for a nice long time. (mmm, sweet baby smell)

we love our Uncle Erich and Uncle Erich is smitten with us. what a pair!

Rowan met the Montgomerys today...here he is with Teresa just before peeing on her. awe.

Uncle Berto came up to see everyone, too! it was a pretty big day!

did I mention today is the first day of my week-long vacation? hallelujah! can't think of a better way to have kicked this vacation off.

love, Love, LOVE you, Rowan! thank you for coming to visit with us today!

when's the best time to turn over a new leaf?

2010-06-21T08:14:00.001-07:00

I'm the type of person who likes to attempt to start new routines at milestones, like at New Year's or on a birthday. I don't know. There's something about picking a meaningful day to start something new that has always appealed to me. You know, like starting to write in a journal, cutting out fast food, going to bed at a descent hour, and (gasp) working out.

Now, for those of you who know me well, starting something new doesn't mean that I ever, with any consistency, keep doing it said new thing. But I'm always hopeful that someday I'll develop that discipline gene.

Well, here I am, at 30. I've got that itch again to start something new again. I'd love to be in shape and feeling like I'm doing something good for my body. Heck, I'd just love to be able to tell my doctor that I'm exercising regularly, and not be lying. I'm hoping that this time, with the help of some friends, that it will have some staying power.

I, Stacia, am going to be doing C25K at lunch time, 3 days a week.

After you've stopped rolling on the floor in hysterics, let me explain my logic.

Yes, I've never been a runner/jogger/speed walker...but I aspire to be someone who can take off for a jog and really enjoy it. And since I'm doing it with a couple of co-workers at lunch time I feel like there will be some accountability to keep at it.

Here's hoping that this time next year I'll still be going strong.

(this'll be me soon...minus JT)

where to begin...

2010-06-17T20:57:00.001-07:00

I'm 30.

This seems as good a point as any to start. Yes, it's my birthday today and I am no longer in my 20's. Is anything different now? Hmm...

It's been over a year since I blogged last. Remember? (or just scroll down) My folks were getting on a plane for Africa for their 2 year adventure, and I was, frankly, a mess.

Well, I got over it.

And lots has happened.

Seems like more than I can tackle in one blog post. So we'll take it a little bit at a time, which will allow me to weed out the many less-than-exciting parts of the last year.

But for tonight let's just start with I'm 30.

and I had what could arguably be the B.E.S.T. birthday I've ever had.

To begin, I was greeted this morning, on my drive in to work, by my frontline rep co-workers who had all gotten up super early to decorate the Fremont statues in honor of my birthday.

I was SO surprised! I am usually one of the first people in the office and was so touched that they had all gotten up much earlier than usual to surprise me with this! All I can say is that I work with the best team in the world. So, you will all be receiving official "thank you"s, but here's a shout out to my peeps: Carlie, Donna, Whitney, Alicia, Rosanna, Kevin and Jon!! You all are amazing and I feel so honored to get to work with each of you every day.

As if that wasn't enough, I got to work to find that my cube had also been decorated to commemorate the big day! (Thanks to Carlie, Alicia and Christi!)

(oh, did I mention there were Top Pot donuts, too?!?)

All day I was greeted with heartfelt birthday wishes from co-workers and students. And I was productive! Unheard of...

I had the perfect birthday lunch at Stell's with Whitney...cheeseburger, onion rings and a mixed berry milkshake. Perfection.

Spent the remainder of the day answering the question, "What are you doing tonight to celebrate?", to which I replied, "My husband and I are going to dinner at 13 Coins".

Or so I thought.

Cut to the end of the day and me waiting outside for Erich to pick me up from work. He had gotten stuck in traffic and was running a bit behind.

Or so I thought.

We head out on the road and I notice that he misses the turn to head downtown towards 13 Coins.

"Babe, we're supposed to turn here."

"No, we aren't."

"Yes, but 13 Coins is that way."

"Well, we're not going to 13 Coins."

Oh.

Now, I'm baffled.

But, wait, this is how we get to Matador.

"Are we going to Matador?"

"I don't know...are we?"

He can be incredibly infuriating.

Once we finally found a parking spot, we hoofed it to Matador to find one last surprise...a party for me!!! WHAT?

As I glance around the table, I am floored by the outpouring of love from friends from all parts of my life. Josh & Teresa, Jenn, Sara, Shauna, Carlie, Kristin, Bri, Rosanna and Donna. Truly amazing.

And is there a better way to end the day than with a Matador Cadillac Margarita and happy hour nachos with the most incredible group of friends that a gal could ask for?

Why, yes. You could then be treated to a lot of laughs and an Orange U Glad cupcake from Cupcake Royale.

Seriously, though, guys...you made this transition into my 30's the most amazing day, when I wasn't expecting it to be much different from the rest. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Know that it meant more to me than any of you will ever know.

With all the love that I have (which is a lot),

Stacia

today's the day

2009-06-20T08:53:00.000-07:00

today I'm driving my parents to the airport so they can board a plane and begin their new lives (for 2 years, anyway) in Kenya.

their bags are packed (FULL), papers for their new house here in Lake Stevens have been signed, the car registered in Washington State and Erich's name added to the title, and now I'm sitting here typing, waiting for them to get to our house so we can caravan down to the airport to say our teary goodbyes.

and my heart is breaking.

...it may or may not be time...

2009-05-18T09:30:00.000-07:00

...to make a commitment to myself to go to the gym regularly, starting 2 months ago.

I am officially wearing office-appropriate slacks today that I used to have to cinch with a safety pin at the waist because they were too big. And by "used to", I mean less than 6 months ago. And by "cinch", I mean folding over an inch at the waist. And by "were", I mean, well, were.

I'm not completely unhappy with my size, although when you're 28, going on 29, you are not supposed to "grow into" your clothes. I mean, I'm not a toddler with hand-me-downs. It isn't cute anymore.

On the bright side, the pants are comfortable and no longer have a hideous "pleat" on my left leg. Although, one unsightly pant leg is better than an extra 10 pounds, right?

It's a good thing I didn't cancel that gym membership...

How is it May already?

2009-05-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

Is it just me, or has this year been flying by too quickly?

It feels like every time I check a calendar, another month has passed me by in a flash. The fact that we haven't blogged in 3 weeks is complete maddness to me! Where is the time going?

Before I know it, my parents will have moved out of their home in Bakersfield and will be driving up to Seattle. We'll be expecting them around the beginning of June and will have them to ourselves (mostly) for a whole 3 weeks before they fly out for Africa. In that short span of time, we will look at houses/property, hopefully find them a home church, transfer a car deed, and suck the marrow out of every precious moment we will have left with them.

The future is so uncertain, as I guess it always is. But they are hoping to make a 2-year commitment in Africa. 2-YEARS!! A lot will happen in that period of time, and if time flies by like it has so far this year, I guess the 2-years won't seem like that long. But how much will our lives change in that small span of time?

Look at Scott & Lorie...had their first son and getting ready for their 2nd in that same amount of time! How strange life will be if we're lucky enough to experience the same in our lives. Can I fathom having TWO children while my parents are living on a different continent?

How can life go on without them around?

I suppose these are all questions I should have been asking myself long before I arrived at this time, but I'm thinking them now...obsessing really.

(sigh)

Junior Is Back!

2009-04-14T20:21:00.001-07:00

Thats right and I'm soooooooo happy!

...posted by erich since my wife is slacking a bit this week.

it's a beautiful, miserable day

2009-04-05T16:29:00.000-07:00

Remember last week when I said I was going to try the homeopathic local honey remedy for my seasonal allergies? I was skeptical, but had high hopes from being spurred on by Farmer Jon, my wholistic, naturpathic co-worker and Joshua, my fellow allergy sufferer.

Josh is the one who scored these honey sticks from his local grocer for Erich & me which I took faithfully every day this week. One stick in the morning with my vitamins, english muffin and cup of yogurt. And I tried to let the honey be enough.

At first, I think maybe my body hadn't gotten used to the honey being my single defense against the onslaught of harmful allergens in my environment. But I stook it out, hoping against hope that the honey would work it's magic and free me from my never-ending nasal drip, explosive sneezing and habitually itchy eyes.

And maybe I need to keep taking the honey to help in the battle against my misery. But after days of disruptive allergy symptoms I resigned myself to the fact that I need reinforcements. Today was a beautiful day so we opened up the windows and the sliding glass door to get a nice cross-breeze through the house, but much like my good friend it didn't come without a price.

And wouldn't you know it doesn't seem like it's made much of a difference.

I am still feeling miserable.

Nothing a long, hot bath, a yummy cup of tea, some clean sheets and an early bedtime won't fix.

I'll keep you updated if I find that the honey becomes more effective.

Happy Spring Time, everyone!

breakfast 2.0

2009-03-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

I woke up like a shot this morning at 9:15 before Erich...very unusual for me. Usually I'm asleep for hours LONG after he's up and started the day. I decided to take full advantage of this unique circumstance to make us a breakfast that we don't take time to enjoy much anymore. These days we're lucky to get a bowl of cereal or the occassional carton of yogurt (if we have any). Besides that, Erich faithfully cooks us dinner just about every night of the week...I very rarely cook for the two of us anymore.

Perhaps inspired by V for Vendetta which we watched recently, I decided to make us Eggies in a Basket and bacon (mmm, bacon).

Throw in a cup of coffee, a glass of juice and some grapes and it was a pretty delicious way to start the day.

Ready or Not...

2009-03-29T01:38:00.000-07:00

I'm not even ashamed to admit that Erich & me and our good friends Josh and Teresa just spent a GOOD 2 hours playing hide and go seek in the dark at their house.

Yes, they're the ones with the adorable 4 year old (crap! can he really be 4 already?). Yes, he loves playing Hide & Seek.

And yes, he had already gone to bed 3 hours earlier.

We were 4 grown adults playing this child's game for 2 hours. It was maybe the most fun I've had in a really long time. I'm not too bad a hider, if I do say so myself.

Note to self: be extra careful when being the seeker, especially when seeking in the dark, because you can come to know your friends a lot more than you might wish to.

rainy seattle daze

2009-03-28T15:24:00.000-07:00

get it? daze? days? hilarious.

It's springtime here which means lots of rain (which I love) and lots of allergies (which I don't love at all). I've been reading a book about how to best prepare your body for pregnancy (yep, I'm reading a book) and there's been lots of information about over-the-counter medications that can seriously disrupt fertility, including some antihistamines. So of course I'm completely paranoid and trying desperately not to do anything that might add to the list of reasons why we might not get pregnant.

I'm on the homeopathic track to wellness. I will (hopefully) stave off my allergies with local honey. At first I thought it was a total crock, but when you think about how honey gets made, especially in your own region where the pollen bees use is likely the same pollen that is giving you fits it actually makes sense.

I'm going to give a try this week and will let you all know how it turns out. I'm hopeful that I won't spend this allergy season with a raw, chapped nose and red, UNBELIEVABLY itchy eyes.

Oh, and also that we get pregnant soon!

St. Patty's Day

2009-03-17T18:16:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patty's Day, everyone. Hope you're all celebrating the day in a safe way...

To be honest, I had completely forgotten about St. Patty's Day until I went to the Orthodontist office this morning where I was ceremoniously pinched repeatedly for not wearing green. Fun!

Just another day at the office, though nearly everyone was well-coordinated with a splash or two of green...everyone but me. I made a lame attempt at participating by putting a fabric flower clip in my hair which had a dash of green in it (you really had to squint and be looking closely to see it), and that's only because I had absent-mindedly thrown it in my purse last week. No real effort to play along.

And then I remembered why I LOVE this day. Erich sends me a text around noon (like he usually does) to see if there's anything in particular I want for dinner (which I never do)...by the way, how awesome is it that my husband has dinner ready for me every night by the time I get home from work?!? Then he asks..."how does corned beef sound?"

Um, SUPER AWESOME FANTASTIC is how it sounds!

And here's what was waiting for me when I got home...

But look who did remember to wear green today! adorable...

home again

2009-03-08T21:52:00.000-07:00

...and I am JUST getting out of bed.

We got home last night around 9:30 last night and crashed. I wasn't feeling good most of last night and all of today so I'm just getting up to check email and watch some Sunday night Animation Domination before heading back to bed.

Trip to Bakersfield was really good and will blog about it soon.

For now, there's just enough time to snack on a few Thin Mints and snuggle with the hubby before heading back to bed.

(sigh)

Bakersfield or Bust

2009-02-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

It's 8:30 on a Saturday night and Erich & I are headed to bed. This isn't totally unusual for us because we're both incredibly old-at-heart (and Erich wakes up crazy-early for his job), but this time it's for good reason.

We're getting up and heading out the door tomorrow morning at 2am to hit the highway headed to Bakersfield.

We'll get there sometime tomorrow night and spend the whole week with the folks and a couple of friends.

Can't wait!!!

I'm (apparently) 14...and I think I'm okay with it

2009-02-25T21:20:00.001-08:00

wanna know how you know you're young at heart? staying up until 1:30am to finish the final installment of the Twilight series, Breaking Dawn...AND on a school night, no less.

I'm not even all that embarrassed to admit it. and, yes, the movie is on our Netflix que.

Now I'm looking for a new book to read. Suggestions, anyone?

*edit* apparently, I didn't have the "real" cover for Breaking Dawn...my apologies to anyone who may have been offended by my mistake.

take two

2009-02-21T20:05:00.000-08:00

I've been feeling exceptionally guilty about not posting for over 2 months now. I know that there are those of you who check our blog for updates on what we've been up to.

Well, the truth is, we haven't really been up to much lately.

Regular life stuff...you know, work, eat, sleep, repeat. But this regularity has been punctuated by the occassional birthday celebration, holiday party, and snow storm.

Recently, Erich and I have been preparing to get ready for a trip to Bakersfield to spend a week with my folks. For those of you who might not know, they have been readying themselves for a HUGE move to Africa, Kenya to be more specific. Initially, they planned on heading overseas in early April, but an unexpected rotator cuff surgery for my mom has pushed back their departure date til June. Nevertheless, and perhaps in light of this, we'll be heading down to Bakersfield to help Dad and Mom do some packing up and, well, give me an opportunity to say goodbye to Bakersfield. Truth of the matter is, once my parents return from Africa, they will likely move up to the Pacific Northwest, and it will be hard for us to have reason to make the long trek down south as often. It bums me out to think of the dear, dear friends I have there who I feel will drift further and further away once my parents make their big move. But all the more reason why I am so thrilled that they are here on blogger for me to get updates about. I hope they feel the same.

Anyway, we're back, and will be posting updates with more regularity. I promise this time.

but for real.

ugh!

2008-12-02T22:27:00.000-08:00

I'm so sorry to those few of you who check in on this blog for updates on what's going on in the lives of the Seattle Schienbeins.

We've actually been pretty busy in the past couple of weeks with lots of exciting and fun surprises (don't worry...none of which is a pregnancy!).

I will try to post about all of the exciting goodness, but I guess I didn't really realize how difficult it would be to work a 40+ hour a week job, work out occassionally, spend quality time with the husband and friends and find time to blog.

To live, or to blog? hmm.

But I promise to try and blog soon...for serious, though.

The.Most.Amazing.Husband.Ever.

2008-11-15T09:24:00.000-08:00

So Erich and I were lame last night and couldn't wait until our anniversary to give each other our presents.

I don't have enough time to tell you what he got me, but all I can say is my husband knows me better than anyone on the planet and got me exactly what I wanted but didn't ask for.

Going down to Portland today to celebrate the bro-in-law's birthday with him and his AMAZING wife, but will tell you all about it when I have more time.

Stay tuned!

I suck.

2008-11-13T19:39:00.000-08:00

It's been exactly one month since my last post.

And it wasn't even my post.

I wish I had something interesting to report...but life is just chugging along for we Schienbeins.

I promise that the moment something exciting happens, you'll all be the first ones to know!

A Great Performance!!!

2008-10-13T18:40:00.000-07:00

Bravo Marcus!

posted by Mr. Schienbein

Yummy deliciousness...

2008-09-28T13:45:00.000-07:00

Tired of the same old scoop of ice cream for dessert? Crazy for chocolate? Have I got the receipe for you! Thanks to Nigella Lawsonof the Food Network, I give to you Chocohotopots...

1 stick plus 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
4 ounces semisweet chocolate
2 eggs
3/4 cup superfine sugar (I just put 3/4 cup regular granulated sugar in a food processor for a couple of seconds)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Place a baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 400 degrees F.

Butter 4 ramekins with 1 tablespoon butter.

Either in a microwave or in a bowl suspended over a pan of simmering water, melt the dark chocolate and 1 stick butter, then set aside to cool a little.

In another bowl, mix the eggs with the sugar and flour with a hand whisk, and beat in the cooled butter and chocolate mixture. Divide the mixture between the 4 buttered ramekins. Bake for about 20 minutes, by which time the tops will be cooked and cracked and the chocolate ooey-gooey underbeath.

Place each ramekin on a small plate with a teaspoon and serve. Make sure to warn people that these desserts will be HOT!

I found this recipe to be simple and able to whip up in a snap. So fast, you don't have time to think about all of the butter you're about to ingest!

But seriously...if you love chocolate, you will absolutely fall in love with this recipe!

I hope you try it out...it is SOOO good!

Seahawk Magic

2008-09-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

I had a really great opportunity to go to the Seahawks game against the Rams last weekend. A good friend of ours, Marcus, was invited to sing the national anthem, and he killed it. It actually brought tears to my eyes how amazing he sounded...I was so proud!!!

The view from our seats

Bri, Jenn & Jacob

(tear) My favorite player from last season was Josh Brown who wanted more money and left the Seahawks for the Rams. I've never heard such loud boos!

Jacob had completed a triathalon earlier that morning so he wound up catching some zzz's.

Tiffy, Jenn, myself & Bri...all hopped up on garlic fries and Bud Lites

It was such a fun time...I truly love these ladies!

Oh, and the Hawks won too, so that was the icing on the cake!

Erich's little heroes...

2008-09-25T18:32:00.000-07:00

Erich's helping coach a pee-wee football league this fall...and I gotta tell ya, there's not much that's more adoreable than 9, 10 & 11 year olds playing football.

Oh, except for Erich interacting with them. That's pretty cute, too!

So far, they're 2-1 and playing pretty good. I have my favorites...Matthew, the happa with a heart of gold; Nathan, the other asian kid who practices so hard be throws up in his helmet but keeps playing; and Calvin, the tiny co-captain who has more spirit than the rest of the team combined.

Go Lake City Braves!

Photomania...

2008-09-25T18:08:00.000-07:00

It's been a long time, I know. I have no excuses except that life has been crazy and I've been too tired to post. But, per Christie's sweet insistence, I've dragged my sorry butt off the couch to post some pics about life in the past month...

First off, Anna's wedding spectacular. I didn't take as many pictures as I thought I'd taken, but here's a small glimpse into the wedding weekend.

First, for Anna's bachelorette party, we had a low-key night with a few close gal pals spent enjoying mexican food and margaritas before going to see a late night showing of Mamma Mia! Anna is a huge ABBA fan and really wanted to see this film together, but up until a couple of days before the festivities we weren't even sure if it would still be in theaters. Luckily for us, it was and we had a blast! Singing along, dancing in our seats, laughing hysterically at how obnoxious we must've appeared to everyone else in the theater...it was perfect.

Just a few of the gals (from left to right) Emily, Danae, Anna, Melissa & Abbi

Me & Abbi

Emily & me

Anna getting ready before the rehearsal & rehearsal dinner

Myself, Anna & Emily

Emily making it happen

Finally the big day arrived and Anna was anything but nervous. Emily and I spent the night on a mattress in Anna's living room and were startled awake when Anna screamed "I'M GETTING MARRIED TODAY!!!" She headed off to have coffee with Eric to spend valuable time together and exchange gifts before getting ready for the rest of the day. The gals started arriving to get ready and visit...that's when time started to fly by. Before we knew it, we were all dressed and heading to the Daughter's of the American Revolution mansion to take pictures. In the blink of an eye we were headed to the church to watch this amazing couple take their vows in front of family and friends.

All the while Anna was composed, excited, giddy, and calm. I was amazed. All of the planning she had put into the day and everything went off without a hitch. And she looked beautiful.

The blushing bride

All in all, it was an honor to stand by her side on one of the most important days in her life.

I love you, Anna!!

Tuesday Wedding-Tastico

2008-08-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

My best friend Anna got married last night.

And it was harder than I thought it would be...emotionally, that is. In fact, just thinking about her all dolled up in her gorgeous dress and veil makes me a little weepy.

We're both all grown up now. Married ladies with families of our own.

(sigh).

*pictures to come later

Tagged!

2008-08-16T11:15:00.000-07:00

Bare with me folks...this is my first time being tagged...and truth be told, I broke out into a mild sweat when I found out as I'm finding it difficult to think of things to say about myself. Some people just seem so much more interesting than me...well, here we go anyway....

Here are the rules...

1) Share 7 facts about yourself on your blog, some random, some weird.
2) Tag 7 people at the end of your post by leaving their names as well as links to their blogs.
3) Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1) I've decided to put the seemingly "morbid" one first just to get it out of the way. I have always had a weird sense that I would die young. I don't know where this comes from (perhaps my being supremely clumsy as a young child), and I don't have any real purpose for thinking so, but when I turned 21, I was a little bit surprised that I was still alive. I've never had a specific feeling about how I would die; feelings more so of dying from a freak accident like getting hit by a bus or having a plane's engine fall from the sky and crush me rather than from an illness or act of violence, but there it is. I know I'm weird.

I can say that this lurking feeling has perhaps given me a deeper understanding of the importance of telling and showing my family and friends how supremely important they are to me and loving them completely with no inhibitions. After all, we never really know how long we have on this earth, do we? Might as well use the time we have been granted to make sure the ones we love know it without a shadow of a doubt.

2) Probably one of the quirkiest things about me is the way I eat my food. It may be the only OCD thing about me (you should see my messy and disorganized house), but I eat the various items making up my meal one at a time. Generally, the order is as follows...

a) Salad (fruit, green, or otherwise)
b) Entree
c) Side dish (veggies, starches, etc.)
d) Dessert

I finish them completely before I move on to the next. It doesn't always happen in that order, but sometimes (if I've given myself too much of one helping) I don't get through all of the parts of the meal. It's a truly depressing thing to be excited about the potatoes au gratin, but being already too full to eat any of them. The only meal where I can mix n' match my meal components are at Thanksgiving. mmm, pumpkin pie....

image courtesy of Kevin Sanchez / Getty Images file

Sometimes people don't notice this about me until it's been pointed out to them...but they always think it's weird.

3) I've been working out pretty consistently now 4 days a week for 4 months with a personal trainer. I think I may have been watching too much of The Biggest Loser, because I expected the results to be staggering at this point. Granted, I'm not working out 8 hours a day or having my diet regulated as rigorously as the contestants on that show, and I also realize that I don't have as much weight to lose as them either, but all the same, I'm slightly more than surprised that I've only lost a total of 6 pounds and an 1 1/2 inches off of all of my measurements.

I hate being "that" person who is so surprised that it takes an ass-ton of work to lose fat, because I pride myself on generally understanding how the whole process works. I mean, I've pretty radically changed my diet and am keeping track of everything with a food journal, I'm taking vitamins and supplements and hittin the gym pretty hard. I understand, too, that I'm building muscle that will help to burn the fat and that this is the reason that I've not lost "weight"... Blah, blah, blah...

I'm just ready to be in shape and look like this in a bikini, already...

darn you, Jessica Biel!

4) Most likely inspired by the many incredibly talented photographers that I feel fortunate to know, I have taken up a very amateur interest in photography. I certainly don't think that I would have an interest in pursuing it as a career (mostly because I just don't think I'd be that good), but I would like to have a basic knowledge of digital photography and editing so that I can begin to capture my life in photos. Especially when Erich and I start our family, I'd like to feel comfortable with photography so that I can inundate all of you with fabulous pictures of our offspring! For now, I stick to what I know, and what my I feel my little point-and-shoot can capture...

beautiful flowers in blossom at SPU

my good friends Marcus & Tiffany's beautiful new son, Blake

Paris, in Las Vegas, on our honeymoon

Erich likes to sleep with his feet outside of the covers, and I think his feet are adorable!

our little friend Dylan on a particularly crisp and colorful fall day last year

the centerpiece at my dear friend Tiffany's baby shower

5) My parents have announced that they're going to be moving to Africa. Kenya to be exact. For those of you who may not know, my parents have been missionaries for over 30 years who currently work with an organization called International Christian Ministries. For quite some time now they've been managing the administrative side of ICM here in the states (Bakersfield to be precise), but at this point in their lives, they would really like to be in the field so that my dad can fulfill his dream of teaching African students. They're planning on being ready to move by April of next year and are hoping to make a 2 year commitment.

I know, right?

If I'm being really honest, I selfishly don't want them to go. First off, for my entire life my parents have been missionaries, but we've never not lived on the same continent. I'm more than a little concerned about them being so far away, especially considering that Erich and I are hoping to start trying for a baby sometime next spring. Earlier this year there was some very serious political infighting in Kenya that resulted in many people being left without homes, and for a great many of them, without their lives. Things have since settled down, but I am just worried about them living in that region.

But on the other side, I am completely thrilled for them that they're taking advantage of such an amazing and unusual opportunity. I am excited at the thought of Erich and I visiting them in their home in Africa someday, getting to witness firsthand the group of people who have touched their hearts so dearly in the last couple of years.

Oh, and I forgot to mention that when they move back to the States, they'll more than likely move up to the Pacific Northwest which means no more Bakersfield. I'm caught between being ecstatic that they'll be closer to us & our kids and being sad that I won't have them as an excuse to visit good friends. Oh, how life changes...

the folks when they were super young

6) I would like to state for the record that my uber-good friend Melinda and I discovered Ricky Martin before he became huge with the latin invasion back in the '90s. See, I grew up in a house without cable, but one channel we did get was the local spanish channel. During the summer of 1998, Melinda was living with me and my folks and we would watch copious amounts of this channel in particular where we would wait with baited breath for his music video to play. What can I say? We thought he was hot.

7) I am still head-over-heels, super crazy in love with Erich. Can't-see-straight, stay-awake-to-watch-him-sleep, miss-him-terribly-when-we're-apart, every-other-thought-is-of-him, crazy in love. True, we're technically still newlyweds since we got married December 1st, 2007, but we'd been dating for 3 years before that. We're best friends (awe) and do pretty much everything together. Even still, when I'm on my way home from work during the week or he's coming home from work on Saturdays I still get little butterflies in my stomach in anticipation of seeing him. I hope it never goes away...

the hubby & I out recently...notice the new haircut!

So that's it folks. Hope you learned something new (and weren't too bored!).

I now tag...

1) Tiffy-because she's new to blogging and needs to introduce herself!

2) Danielle-because she & I have a lot in common and I want to know more about her!

3) Carlie-because she's crazy and I know whatever she reveals about herself will be entertaining

4) Brenda-because I used to basically live at her house when I was younger and haven't gotten to catch up with her in awhile

5) Karen-because she has a beautiful daughter and a charming life in Chicago that I want to hear all about!

6) Jenn-because she was one of those gals in high school that I wanted to be just like...so cool and sweet...in fact, I STILL want to be like her!

7) Scott-because, well, I miss the guy and would like to know what's up!

Okay folks, get to it!!!

I guess?

2008-08-06T12:49:00.001-07:00

You Are An ISTJ

The Duty Fulfiller

You are responsible, reliable, and hardworking - you get the job done.

You prefer productive hobbies, like woodworking or knittings.

Quiet and serious, you are well prepared for whatever life hands you.

Conservative and down-to-earth, you hardly ever do anything crazy.

In love, you are loyal and honest. If you commit yourself to someone, then you're fully committed.

For you, love is something that happens naturally. And you don't need romantic gestures to feel loved.

At work, you remember details well and are happy to take on any responsibility.

You would make a great business executive, accountant, or lawyer.

How you see yourself: Decisive, stable, and dependable

When other people don't get you, they see you as: Boring, conservative, and egotistical

What's Your Personality Type?

I won!!!

2008-07-20T11:51:00.000-07:00

This sweet woman just made my day!

On her 200th blog post she hosted a fun little competition (well, a drawing, actually), for which the winner would receive a fun prize. And would you believe it? I won!

Special thanks to this tasty little nugget for contributing to my win!

And thank you, Christie, for entertaining me daily with sweet stories of your adorable family!

We have a new sister!

2008-07-06T18:43:00.001-07:00

The blushing bride, Monique.

I'm so excited! I've always wanted a sister, and now I have one...and an amazing one at that!

We drove down to Portland on Wednesday night, June 18th, with our really good friends Berto & Jenny...they're family, really. What usually is a 2.5-3 hour drive took us 5...needless to say, we had a lot of fun along the way. Thomas was waiting outside for us when we finally showed up at his townhome around 10:30pm, totally goofy and wired. We spent the next two days in a flurry of activities and errands leading up to the big day.

Highlights for me were getting to spend some quality time with Jenny, mostly laughing and reminiscing, but also having serious talks about life, love & our searches for happiness. We also did some major sales-tax-free shopping, which is always a great time.

It was also really fun to have all 5 of us under the same roof again. Eating together, playing video and card games, and generally doing a lot of laughing. A LOT of laughing.

The wedding itself was beautiful, located at the Heritage House in Wilsonville, Oregon. Surrounded by hazelnut orchards, the Heritage House has beautiful, lush gardens which served as the backdrop for both the ceremony and reception. It was sunny and hot with an occassional cold breeze.

The ceremony was very traditional with lighting of the unity candle, readings and classic vows, but was punctuated by a very spirited choreographed dance by most of the bridal party and a few extra cousins to Queen's "Somebody to Love". Oh, and it was hot outside.

The reception was filled with dancing, yummy buffet food, beer & wine, laughter, cake, more dancing and more wine...oh, and the heat. There was also the heat.

We stayed until after the sun had set, our feet ached, our bellies were full and our backs were wet with sweat. Needless to say, we slept really soundly that night.

It was such a special day getting to watch Thomas marry the gal of his dreams and getting to welcome an amazing woman into our little family. We did it with some of our closest friends by our sides, all of us with smiles on our lips and tears in our eyes.

Monique and Heidi (a bridesmaid) sippin on some cocktails at the bachelorette dinner.

Thomas, the groom (on the right) and Berto, the co-best man (on the left) dancing up a storm.

Jenny & myself surviving the blistering heat, and lookin fine!

Berto & Jenny groovin (aren't they adorable?)

Monique performing a choreographed dance and lip syncing "I Love You, I Do" (from Dreamgirls) for her new husband...SO cute!

In what has become a new tradition in our family, Berto merengued with the bride,

which is not an easy feat in a wedding dress...trust me!

Kelly & Don, mother and father-of the bride.

Dale & Tanya Schienbein, our Canadian cousins who made the trek down for the wedding.

Connor, one of Monique's little cousins, who was a total dancing machine. Seriously, this kid did not stop!

These were the table name cards that Monique made. Each table was the name of a location that was meaningful to them as a couple. Our table was Karkeek, which is the name of a local park where Thomas proposed. Aww...

This is their beautiful and delicious cake. It tasted like layers of banana bread with buttercream frosting...SOOO good!

Thomas and Monique are spending their honeymoon in both England and Ireland, how fun is that?

Congratualtions to you, brother & sister. We are so excited for the life you will be sharing and cannot wait to spend many holidays and other life milestones together!

***

By the way, I realize that there are no pictures of Erich, but I SWEAR he was there. He always manages to sneak out of the shot...sneaky husband!

Finally...

2008-07-04T08:06:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the delay, folks. I've been super busy with working out and work and trying to stay cool in this wave of muggy/hot summer Seattle weather (YUCK! Give me clouds and rain any day!).

Here's a few photos from my birthday (June 17th) this year...

Even though I'd only been working in the office for 2 weeks, my co-workers still decorated my cubicle on my birthday and ALL signed a card for me. SO sweet!!!

Melo & Shea who joined me for my birthday celebration at the Crab Shack on the Seattle waterfront later that evening for dinner. Mmm...crab legs, oysters, clams, potatoes & corn cobs...buttery goodness!

It took them over an hour to seat us on a Tuesday night...we were all so hungry by the time we finally got our table, and we all thought Josh was going to break down and actually eat a Crab Shack employee...

Teresa, I'm sorry for this but I think this picture of you is hilarious! In her defense, she had no idea I was taking the picture of her while she was eating her bread...she looks so angry!

The Husband and I gorging ourselves.

All in all, it was a great birthday. And for once, I finally do feel a year older.

Here's to being 28!

***

I have TONS more pictures to post from Thomas & Monique's wedding, but it won't likely be until Sunday evening after my return from Yakima with Anna for her 1st (of many!) bridal showers!

Thomas & Monique's Wedding Weekend Adventure

2008-06-23T08:20:00.001-07:00

We got home yesterday afternoon exhausted and hayfever-ridden, but feeling very joyful and blessed with the addition of Monique to our (slowly growing) Schienbein "clan".

Pictures and fun stories to come!

phew

2008-06-13T16:58:00.001-07:00

I have successfully survived my first week back in the working world...

I am exhausted.

My days start really early with personal training sessions at 5am, 4 days a week. Then I rush home to shower and change before hitting the road to get to work on time. I spent the majority of this week cramming my (tired) brain with a TON of information. Appears as though my job requires me to have a certain degree of knowledge regarding every aspect of Student Financial Aid/Accounts. That's A LOT of information, people. Then there's the commute home which I forgot can be so incredibly aggrevating.

Fortunately for me, I am in love with my new job. EVERY aspect. From my co-workers, who are all so encouraging, supportive and funny; to the benefit package I'm entitled to as an employee; to my supervisor who couldn't be more patient or sweet; to the actual work itself...including the interaction with students and parents. I feel like I was made for this job (well, once I'm able to wrap my brain around all the info).

PLUS, I'm on campus again with my best friend from college, Anna, for whom I am the matron-of-honor in her upcoming August nuptuals. It's so great to have lunch together and chat about upcoming wedding-related projects, and to have such a major member of my support system just a matter of a couple of buildings away.

If that's not enough, every night this week when I came home from work, Erich already had dinner ready and on the table. He did all our grocery shopping for the quarter on his one weekday off, AND did a number of loads of laundry. Am I the luckiest gal in the world, or what?

All in all, though I'm exhausted from all the running around and getting adapted to my new environment, missing spending precious time with both my husband and my couch, I'm overwhelmed by feeling supremely satisfied and blessed.

First day of work!!!

2008-06-05T12:44:00.000-07:00

So I have the best job already...I can tell.

The people in my office are all so friendly and welcomed me right away even though I wasn't in the office very long today.

I'm stoked because the training period for this position is a month...a month! The past couple of jobs I've had have been trial-by-fire type situations, so I'm super excited to be trained thoroughly before I'm left to my own devices.

Part of the reason the training is so long is because of the massive sheer volume of information that I have to learn which brings me to the third reason I'm already in love with my job...I'm at home right now, changed into pjs ready to do some hard core reading. AND I get to stay home tomorrow too and keep soaking in all of the info!

Alright, time to get cracking!!!

(Thanks to everyone who thought of me today as I started my first day...I think it's going to be a great fit!)

It's possible that I'm about to rock your world...

2008-05-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

A post by a good friend reminded me how much I like, no, LOVE shopping online. I love doing it from the comfort of my home, sitting on the couch with my socked feet on the ottoman, watching tv in my pajamas with a steaming cup of tea in one hand without the crowded stores, parking lots, dressing rooms, never finding what I want in my size, standing in line at the checkout and rude or impossible to find store clerks (even though I have a special place in my heart for those who work retail). And even though I am crazy about the holidays (I honestly start to crave holiday music around July), and enjoy the cold and bustle of downtown shopping during that time of the year for the experience alone, I do NOT love shopping for Christmas presents among the crazed and panicked shoppers who MUST have this or that item and don't care who they have to trample or offend to get said item. So Erich and I do a great deal of online shopping and mostly through Amazon.com (most of our family and close friends have wish lists through this amazing website, so shopping for them is a breeze!)...that, and my dear, dear husband is slightly agoraphobic (by my diagnosis) and would rather chew off his left arm than go to the mall.

But, I digress.

Awhile ago I was doing some shopping online looking for shoes for my wedding (that's the excuse I use, but truthfully I just love shoes...I think I might actually have a problem) and stumbled quite by chance on an amazing website. They only sell shoes (womens, mens and childrens) and handbags (oh, the handbags!), but it is the most comprehensive, user-friendly, reasonably-priced, magical website EVER!

First of all, they have

FREE OVERNIGHT SHIPPING!

There is even a counter on the webpage that tells you how much time you have left in the day to put in your order to get your purchase the next day.

Secondly, if you're looking for something specific there are many different search options to narrow down your choices including style or category, specific brands, color family, size, width, heel height and price range. And you can select more than one option at a time (example, white pump in a size 8 1/2 or 9, with a heel height of no more than 1-1 3/4", 2A width, and preferrably by Steve Madden or Chinese Laundry and under $100). It couldn't be easier.

Thirdly, let's say you find a pair that you think look cute but want to get a better look at. Click on the picture and you will be whisked away to an area where you can see images of the shoes from every conceivable perspective...you can even scroll your mouse over the picture itself and see a close-up view of whatever area of that shoe (or handbag) your cursor is over. This is also the area of the website where you can select to add the item to your cart, save for later, email a picture (and information) of the item to yourself or others, or even have them email you should your size become available.

Fourth, let's say you get the shoes next day and they're the wrong size...

FREE 365-DAY RETURN SHIPPING!

I believe they only do credit and not cash returns, but still...that's pretty freaking awesome!

So check it out and let me know what you think of the site. But if you're like me, you'll be in shoe and handbag heaven!!!

Fruity goodness...

2008-05-25T12:26:00.000-07:00

Our friends the Montgomerys came over yesterday for our weekly Saturday game night & catch-up time. Yesterday was really gorgeous, and marked the first day of the season that the pool in our complex is open. So Dylan and I spent a little bit of time with our feet in the water (the pool is heated and was the PERFECT temperature!) before it became overrun with other residents. We also spent some time kicking around the soccer ball on the lawn outside of our building. It was a really fun afternoon.

Whichever of us hosts the day figures out and prepares dinner for everyone. So since they were coming up to our place to check out Wii Fit (which is a total blast...working out was never so fun!), Erich made chicken and cheese-filled tortellini with peas and bacon in a pesto alfredo sauce and I figured out dessert.

I took a trip to the local Thriftway to get some inspiration and found some really lovely, reasonably priced seasonal fruit and a premade Bavarian pound "tart" cake. So, I thought I'd try my hand at a mixed-fruit tart.

I started by taking the cake and adding a thin layer of apricot preserves as a base for the fruit. (In the future, I would probably take some of the reserved juices from the strawberries and saturate the cake since it ended up being a little on the dry side.) I then added a layer of Fat-Free whipped cream (note to self: be sure to take out of freezer at least 30 minutes before trying to assemble). Next was the fun part...arranging the variety of fruits in a pretty fashion. No real rhyme or reason. I used all fresh fruit; strawberries, blueberries, kiwi, plums, seedless green grapes, and raspberries.

To add a nice shine and a little bit of sweetness, I combined 1/4 cup of the apricot preserves with 2 tablespoons of water in a small saucepan and brought it to a boil, stirring constantly, until the preserves are melted. Then I brushed the top of the tart with the sauce giving it a lovely glisten.

All in all, it was the perfect ending to the first of many beautiful summer days.

What kinds of desserts are you all falling in love with?

I got it!!!

2008-05-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! I got the call today offering me the position I interviewed for on Tuesday and I'll be starting work Thursday, June 5th!

Better savor these last couple of weeks at home...

YAY!!!

It's a nail-biter...

2008-05-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

I have an interview today from 11-12:30 at my alma mater, Seattle Pacific University. It is for a Student Financial Services Representative and is a job I think I'd really like...but I'm nervous.

Incredibly nervous actually...

I haven't worked a really real job since July of last year and feel a bit rusty.

Here's hoping!

********************Update********************

I think the interview went well but won't find out till the end of the week (at the earliest) or the first week of June (at the latest). I'll let you all know when I find out!

So it's been a little while...

2008-05-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

I'm lame.

I spend between 30 minutes to an hour each day checking other people's blogs, catching up on what's going on in their lives, melting with each post about their children's recent adorable-ness, and being envious of the enormous photographic talent out there in the world. I get antsy when I see that someone hasn't updated their blog in awhile, and feel (neurotically) left out of their daily comings and goings.

So I thought that the least I could do was update our own page since it's been (gasp!) over a week since the last post.

I spent the majority of last week at our good friends Marcus and Tiffany's house painting their nursery in preparation for little Blake Steven who is due to be born in a scant 4 weeks (ack!). For those of you who might not know this about me, I actually really enjoy painting...the whole process. Imagining an overall change for a space, picking out coordinating colors, the tools, the cutting, the rolling, the touch-ups, and especially the finished product. So when Tiffany asked me if I would consider helping them get the nursery ready for Blake's arrival, I was more than happy to oblige. I didn't get any pictures of the room (none that are good enough to post anyway), but the room turned out really lovely. I think it's going to be a wonderful space for Blake to grow up in and I was so happy to be a part of the whole process!

My future sister-in-law, Monique, had her bridal shower on Saturday at The Painted Plate in Olympia which is an adorable store where you can purchase bisque-fired pottery pieces and glaze them yourself. The party didn't start until 7:30pm so my good friend Jen and I drove down to Centralia to visit with friends of hers from college, Michelle and Neil, who are both teachers there and who have recently brought their own little bundle into the world. His name is Owen, and he just turned 2 months old...and boy, is he adorable!
Their house was custom-built by Neil's stepfather and it is AMAZING! It sits on top of a hill that overlooks the entire Centralia-area. We could actually see the rain move across the town and head right for us...it was beautiful.

They also have a sweet little dachsund name Winnie who is just a hoot. She craves lots of loving (as you can see in the picture below). What she loves best of all is to sit on your chest with her neck in your face so you can give her zerberts. She could just sit there all day long...too funny!

After a really fun time meeting and hanging out with that adorable little family, we headed up to Olympia for the bridal shower. I used to really be into ceramics in high school and then took some additional classes in college, but that was over 5 years ago so I was a little rusty. But the idea for the shower was really cool. In lieu of a gift, each attendee was to come prepared to paint a piece of pottery for Thomas and Monique. Everyone was given a 4-inch square tile that would eventually end up as the frame for the mirror in their guest bathroom. We were given some loose perimeters regarding color (primary blue and green) and theme (frogs), but mostly left to paint whatever we liked. Now, I don't think I'm terribly creative, and I'm really glad that Thomas and Monique have a sense of humor because this is what I came up with...
(ha, ha...poop)

Jen and I wanted to do something else for them so we decided to paint a plate for them. A very long time ago when Erich and I were first dating we had gone to dinner at Cucina! Cucina! where they give you crayons and encourage you to draw on their paper tablecloths (classy!). I sketched a rough cartoon drawing of Thomas that I thought was so funny that we still have it hanging on our refrigerator today! What better than to eat off that face! So Jen and I painted the rim of the plate red and yellow stripes and I tried to recreate my cartoon rendition of Thomas...what do you think? (Oh, by-the-way, Thomas made an appearance at the bridal shower, but it wasn't co-ed)
All in all, we had a really great time. Erich and I miss Jen & Berto (Jen's boyfriend) terribly since we used to hang out all the time when we lived in Wallingford. So it was a real treat to spend such a fun day with her (the margaritas and wine helped too!).

Remember Baskin Robbins?

2008-05-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

It is a super sunny, beautiful day in Seattle today so Erich and I got dressed and (gasp!) went outside for a walk. We crossed Bothell/Everett Hwy into the Sheridan Beach neighborhood and drooled over the gorgeous homes that are along the Lake Washington waterfront.

On the way back to our car we stopped in Baskin Robbins for some yummy ice cream. Sorry the picture is so blurry...I wanted to snap the picture and start eating as quickly as possible before it melted all over my hand!

Shown is a scoop of World Class Ribbon (vanilla and chocolate ice cream with ribbons of caramel throughout, on top), and York Peppermint Patty (peppermint flavored ice cream with miniature York patties throughout, on bottom).
If you haven't been in awhile, I highly recommend stopping in this summer. It's a great place for reminiscing and people watching...oh, and the ice cream is pretty darn good, too!

Jenga & Breakfast for Dinner

2008-05-04T13:57:00.000-07:00

Last night we had the Montgomery clan, Melo & Shea, and Kara over for some MarioKart, Mexican Train, Jenga and breakfast for dinner. I spent a good part of the morning and early afternoon tidying up our small abode and rearranging items that live on our kitchen countertop. *Sidenote* We have a stainless steel sink with what resemble rust stains that I can't seem to get out...any suggestions?

When people finally arrived, they all basically congregated to the living room to play MarioKart (which is totally fun, by the way). I started making "dinner" which consisted of pancakes, bacon, link sausage, and omlettes...how awesome is having breakfast for dinner?!?

The group started to dwindle and eventually Erich, Josh, Teresa, Kara and myself played a round of Mexican Train and snacked on queso & chips and watermelon. Then, we broke out Jenga!

We all started to fade so Josh and Teresa collected a sleeping Dylan...

...and we crashed.

This is my brother...

2008-05-01T20:53:00.000-07:00

Those of you who know me (and I assume everyone who reads this does) know that I have an older brother, JB, who is a merchant marine. I do my best to describe what this means, but truthfully I have no idea. To the best of my knowledge, it means he works on a boat doing boat-related things...it's hard work, I know that much, but I couldn't say exactly what it is.

Well, he just posted a few pictures on his myspace page from his current stint in Saipan. I don't know if this picture is doctored or not, but it's definitely my new favorite of him. He is who he is and I love him for it.

Exposearoonie

2008-04-29T16:05:00.000-07:00

So I've been "participating" over the last 10 weeks in a photography challenge managed by EmilyPie, an amazing photographer. I'm a total amateur but photography has really begun to interest me.

Well, EmilyPie & Ashley have put together this AMAZING website called Exposearoonie which will be the new host of our weekly photo challenges. There's a link to it on the right hand side of my blog and I encourage any of you reading to participate too...or just check it out and vote for my submissions! (ha, ha)

So here is my submission to the first week's Exposearoonie challenge: Self-Portrait. I took it sitting down on the balcony of our condo today when the weather was particularly lovely.

Thanks to any of you who check it out!

I heart macro

2008-04-28T13:55:00.000-07:00

I took these on our walk through Lincoln Park, signs that the Pacific Northwest is finally in full spring bloom. Yay!

Saturday Afternoon at Lincoln Park

2008-04-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

We spent Saturday afternoon with the Montgomery family (like we usually do). But this time we went outside! That's right. It was a lovely day, sunny and cool, so we packed up a picnic, grabbed some blankets and a frisbee and headed to Lincoln Park in West Seattle by the waterfront.

Me & my honey.

Josh & Teresa

Dirty face.

Superman!

Someone got tuckered out from the hiking. Note the sand everywhere.

Dylan took this picture of me just before he threw my camera in the sand.

Dylan scraped his knee pretty badly from running around the "beach" (rocks covered in sharp barnacles). He kept shrieking, "I'm bleeding!!!"

We were all slightly more than winded when we finally climbed the last of the steps that lead down to the beach from the park. But we piled into the car, stopped for slurpees and spent the rest of the night playing Mexican Train and Spades. It was a good day...

Day 12...the long drive home

2008-04-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

I woke up early to hit the highway home. I must've been excited to get home to my hubby because I woke up with my first alarm from my phone (I generally set 3 alarms, sleeping through the first two and hitting the snooze feature on the third alarm for an hour or so). I packed up quietly and loaded my car and was on the road by 4am.

Now, I will admit that when it comes to driving I don't have a lot of patience with other drivers. But come on. I mean, how hard is it to use your blinker, people? It's just right there! And it's not a part of your car that is just a suggestion from your car manufacturer. You're supposed to use it...particularly if you're planning on cutting me off repeatedly over the course of 200 miles of highway.

Also, let's talk for a minute about the left lane. Imagine what a beautiful world it would be if all people recognized and obeyed the "left lane is for passing" rule. And when I say passing, I mean actively passing...not seeing a semi truck 1/2 mile up the road that you will want to eventually pass. In addition, if you're planning on driving the SAME speed as the person in the right lane, then there really is no need for you to be occupying space in the left lane. Particularly if you're driving 5 miles under the speed limit. I'm just saying, is all...

With every mile I got closer to home and my husband so I took as few stops as possible. After a quick stop in Portland to drop off some gifts to Thomas, I hopped back on the road for my final stretch to Seattle.

When I finally got home, I walked in the door to find my husband in the kitchen making gorgonzola topped steaks with mashed potatoes and sauted mushrooms. He'd bought me flowers (lilies, my favorites) and a beautiful new vase along with lit candles. He'd gotten out fresh pjs and a clean towel for a quick shower before dinner...such a thoughful husband!

*this is my submission to the PhotoPie Challenge...it's not terribly exciting but is sentimental as Erich got them since he knows I like Cucumber Melon scented candles*

So now I'm home, and glad to be so. I thoroughly enjoyed my road trip and the time I got to spend with friends and family along the way. Thanks to everyone who put me up and entertained me. I had a great time!!!

Day 11

2008-04-24T11:42:00.000-07:00

If you ever get a chance to stay with Michael & Melinda I highly recommend staying in their 2nd bedroom. It could possibly be the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in. The mattress itself is super comfortable, but then add flannel sheets (yum), a down throw (mmm), a quilt (yawn), and really plush pillows (snore) and you've got yourself a great nights sleep.

Mel made a wonderful breakfast and Michael contemplated going skiing. He ended up staying home and watching the Laker game instead. Mel and I decided to take a little sightseeing trip. As we were leaving the house she noticed that the truck had been parked under the downspout from their roof and a rather large icicle had formed on the front of the truck. I'm sure I've never seen anything like it. She said it's happened before.

I guess it's one of the hazards of living in the mountains. But I thought it was pretty cool.

We headed into town to look at all of the adorable shops. First stop was the coolest toy store I've ever seen. Very Babes In Toyland with old fashioned toys mixed in and amongst newer toys on a wall of old built-shelves. Even candy in jars on the sales counter filled with sour patch kids, assorted gummy bears and worms, jawbreakers, butterscotch discs and gumballs. The woman running the shop told us that they're eventually going to be expanding into the place next door which they're planning on turning into an old fashioned ice cream parlor/soda fountain. Fun, right?

We also went into a variety of shops in Truckee which is such an adorable town.

The main downtown strip is lined with buildings dating back to the 1800's, and filled with boutiques, cafes, kitchenware stores, and bars. It feels very much like something out of a movie.

My favorite store is a place called The Pharmacy (I believe) which was at no time an actual pharmacy. It used to be a theater, once upon a time, that Charlie Chaplan performed in. It's filled with fancy (and expensive) lotions and candles, lingerie and bedding.

After a lovely lunch and more window shopping Melinda took me to a spot in Truckee where you have a great view of the whole town.

We headed back to the house and sat back to watch Sweeney Todd (love it!). As it was getting on to 7pm, we decided to fire up the grill and have some burgers and grilled veggies. There's nothing quite as entertaining as watching Michael on the grill when it's 30 degrees outside.

We sat around and reminisced about the good ol days and even perused a couple of photo albums. But it got late and we all needed to get some sleep, so we said our goodbyes since I would be leaving before either of them got up. I always hate saying goodbye to Melinda who has always been the sister I never had.

Thanks guys for putting me up and letting me tag along on your weekend adventure. I love you!

Day 10

2008-04-22T12:35:00.001-07:00

I left Bakersfield bright and early (6:00am) after stopping by Starbucks for some fuel. Driving along Stockdale Hwy that early in the morning is something pretty amazing. With the windows rolled down the air is crisp and earthy. There aren't many other drivers on the road then so everything is really peaceful. I secretly love driving by acres and acres of fields while the sprinklers are on...something about the "click, click, click" that's so hypnotic and relaxing.

The only thing worth mentioning from this drive was my neverending search for the least expensive highway gas. I'd drivin almost all the way to Sacramento and was getting a little low (but not hurting) so I started checking out the prices...regular unleaded $3.97 (too high, I can do better)...regular unleaded $3.77 (better, but I bet if I head further north the price will keep coming down)...regular unleaded $3.67 (awesome, but maybe one more exit?). I pull off on the next exit (the gas light is now on so it's time to fill up) but I couldn't see the gas price from the freeway. And of course it would be $4.09!!! Serves me right for being greedy, I guess.

I made it to Truckee around 11:30 and drove straight to Michael & Melinda's new house. After big hugs we piled into the car to take Michael to lunch. He works at a Ski Shop (I'm not sure what the name of it is, but these two words are most prominent on their store front) and seems very much in his element. We ate lunch at the Dragonfly ("If I could have a salad with fries instead of lettuce, that'd be great") where the food was extra good but the service was a bit lacking. We weren't asked if we wanted anything to drink and so poor Michael had to drink water instead of the coke he so desperately wanted. It also took a half century to get our food which we all had to eat quickly so that Michael could get back to work.

Mel and I ran a few errands in town. Someone had to get all new makeup since someone caught pink eye. We cruised back to their house to hang out and catch up until Michael got off work so the three of us could drive to Reno for Michael's improv show. His troupe is Empire Improv and it was so much fun. I haven't had an opportunity to catch much improv since I graduated high school where it felt like we went to Comedy Sportz every week.

After some sort of miscommunication, I got the chance to play bartender that night which was kind of fun. Lucky for me the drinks everyone ordered had exactly 2 ingredients (rum & coke, crown & water, vodka tonic, etc.). I totally felt like Tom Cruise from Cocktail! Except without the flair or feathered hair...

I had such a good time that night and laughed (embarassingly) loudly on more than one occassion. They've got more shows in the future, Saturday nights at 8pm, I believe. So if you're in the Reno area and are interested in a great night of comedy, check out Empire Improv.

You've gotta love Reno too because after the show was over, we decided to get a bite to eat. We hit up one of the casino restaurants where you can get Breakfast, Lunch or Dinner any time of the day and with the most interesting people. I saw a woman with the most awesome hair ever. It was bleached blonde, well, somewhere between banana yellow and platinum, and SUPER frizzy. Her outfit was made out of lycra and her companion was sporting a very serious mullet. Only in Reno...

Oh, and it was snowing as we were driving home...aahhh...cold. Loving it!

Day 9

2008-04-18T18:38:00.000-07:00

Today I spent at home in my pjs just relaxing with my parents. We just lazed around eating and snacking, chatting and playing Mexican Train (which, if you've never played before, is pretty fun). It was the perfect way to wrap up my trip to Bakersfield and the best prep for heading back out onto the open road.

As a tribute to my time here in Bakersfield, I have decided to compile a top ten list of the reasons why I love my home in Bakersfield.

#10-Our house is on the corner. I always loved this about my house. We had a huge front yard, and for my whole childhood, a long side yard that was all lawn...perfect for slip 'n slides, water balloon tosses, and running through the sprinklers on a hot summer day.

#9-My parent's new pet...a stuffed cat. 7 years ago when our family cat, Cinnamon, passed away from a sudden and massive heart attack, a friend of my folks gave them a stuffed cat who pretty nearly resembled Cinnamon, who was a 30 pound long-haired Calico. I remember more than once walking into the living room on a visit home and seeing this stuffed animal on my dad's chest. He was petting it while reading a book and said it's been the best pet they've ever had. Never eats, poops, scratches or sheds. It cracks me up every time I see it.

#8-Steve and Gladys, our lemon & satsuma bushes. Both my paternal grandparents passed away when I was very young so I have very few memories of each. A number of years ago, my parents planted a citrus bush in each of their memories in our backyard...a lemon bush for my grandfather Steve, and a satsuma (orange) bush for my grandmother Gladys. Each year they yield a lot of fruit which my folks are able to enjoy with fond memories.

#7-Ceiling fans in virtually every room. I know that ceiling fans aren't aesthetically pleasing, but they sure are practical here in Bakersfield. Yes, the days are hot, but even summer nights can cool down considerably and I really loved having my window open at night to feel the cool breezes and hear the crickets and having my ceiling fan on low to circulate the air. Sometimes, even in Seattle, I wish we had a ceiling fan as I am always lulled to sleep by the low hum of the ceiling fan motor and a soft breeze on my cheek.

#6-Cinnamon's marker. When we moved to Bakersfield in the summer of '88, I was mourning the loss of my cat Mikey. We had had him in LA for a number of years until we began to pack for our move north and he suddenly disappeared. I was heartbroken. So once we settled in to our house, I pleaded with my parents to get me another cat. I remember the day I looked through the newspaper classifieds and was disheartened to find cats for sale for upwards of $100. I couldn't fathom paying for a cat! As it happened, the same day our new next door neighbor had found a small calico kitten that had gotten stuck on his roof and needed a home. My parents had me do the responsible thing and take the cat around the neighborhood to see if she belonged to anyone. No one claimed her and I was thrilled to have a cat again. We named her Cinnamon for her coloring and I loved her instantly. She, however, didn't take to us, well, ever. She was difficult, fiercely independent, and a real bully...but I loved her nonetheless. When I was a junior in college I got a voicemail from my parents saying Cinnamon, who was quite old and had arthritis in 3 of her paws (in addition to being at least 25 pounds) had, what they believed, to be a massive heart attack. In her honor, they placed a marker in our backyard so that we would always remember her.

#5-My parents' master bathroom. *swoon* This room is one of the reasons my parents bought our house in the first place. You can't tell really from the picture I've uploaded here but their master bathroom is HUGE. It's easily as big as, if not bigger than, our bedroom in Seattle. Tons of closet space with mirrored closet doors, a long bank of cabinetry with 2 sinks, a separate little room for the toilet, a shower that could fit 3 people easily, and a vaulted ceiling with a skylight. They just don't make 'em like they used to...

#4-My bathroom. My brother and I shared a bathroom (gross) for 6 years and almost immediately after he moved out I begged my parents to let me paint it. It was originally off white, everywhere. They resisted. In fact, I'm pretty sure they had their Sunday school class pray about it. They finally gave in. I was super into celestial stuff. So I picked a really pretty shade of blue for the walls and painstakingly hand stamped tiny cherubs and stars in gold paint on the walls. I found other cherub knick knacks to hang on the walls and pictures of cherubs that I framed. What's not pictured here is the dozens of tiny picture frames I made out of cardboard and painted gold with pictures of all of my friends which created a frame around the mirror. I loved being surrounded by my friends when I was getting ready for school in the morning and getting ready for bed at night. I can't believe after all this time (13 years later) that the bathroom still looks the same. Maybe they're waiting for me to paint it back the way it was...

#3-The big kitchen. I'm ruined for life because I grew up with a HUGE kitchen. My parents have updated the appliances, replaced the countertops and flooring and restained the cabinetry, but it has always been this large. I used to dance around the kitchen with the music blasting while my mother was cooking dinner (I'm sure, much to her chagrin) and during the holidays we could comfortably fit 4 people in there all cooking at once. There's a small bar on the other side of the stove which I think I ate breakfast at nearly every day of my youth. It is definitely the hub of the house and one where I have many of my memories.

#2-The pool. Ah, the pool. I used to live in this pool when I was younger. My dad would jokingly check me for gills and webbed fingers and toes at the end of each summer because I spent so much time in the water. I'd have to get a new bathingsuit every summer, not because it was fashionable, but because I'd worn it so often that the chlorine was starting to disintegrate the material. Oh, and my hair! It'd start to lighten up from being in the sun all day and then it would start to turn green from all the chlorine! We even had a ridiculously large floating mattress which had to have been the size of a queen bed which I'd lay on at night, covered with my towel, watching the stars. Though the thermometer today said 73 when I dipped my feet in the water, it was still too chilly for me to take a full swim. But I do love this pool and miss it in the summertime.

#1-My folks. With all the great things about this house, though, the thing I love most about coming home to visit are my parents. I really value our relationship now that I've grown up and we've become friends. I golf with my dad and shop with my mom, get advice on how to invest my money, and appreciate their partnership as I've begun my own marriage. I wish we lived closer so that we can be a bigger part of each others' lives and definitely when Erich and I start our family. I only got to see my grandparents a couple of times a year and I want desperately for my children to know their grandparents...the wonderful, generous, caring, compassionate, loving, funny, and wise people that they are.

*aren't they adorable?*

Tomorrow I head off to Truckee to spend a couple of days with my good friend Melinda and her husband Michael. We'll laugh a ton, no doubt, and enjoy their new home.

Then it's a quick pit stop in Portland before I head home to my husband, whom I miss desperately and love completely.

Day 8

2008-04-18T10:22:00.001-07:00

Today was nice and relaxing after the past couple of days. I was able to sleep in again (YAY!) after not sleeping well since before the wedding 4 1/2 months ago. Maybe all this Bakersfield sunshine and heat is plain tuckerin me out! Hopefully, once I get home to Seattle, the good sleeping will continue. There's nothing quite as painful as still being awake when my husband is waking up to go to work in the morning.

Anyway, today I was able to spend most of the day at my parent's house. I did a load of laundry (so I don't have to take a suitcase of dirty clothes home) and took my time getting ready for dinner at the Chambless's. My mom and I went to Gottschalk's so that she could purchase a Willow Tree figurine for a co-worker who is retiring and moving to Colorado. While we were there I couldn't help but puruse the baby clothes section (sorry, honey!). They were actually having quite a nice sale so I found these adorable onesies for the twins.

After we got back to the house, I took off to the sticks to Scott, Lorie & Henry's house for dinner. I stopped off at Trader Joe's to pick up 2 crowns of rolls for my contribution to dinner (on Lorie's suggestion...and they were SO good!). I had a few minutes once I got there to catch up with Scott, with whom time seems to have always stood still. We're always able to pick right up again teasing each other and hurling insults...you know, in a loving way. Soon Marky Mark, Christie & sweet baby Sam showed up. It was so surreal to finally meet Christie and Sam whom I feel I already know from blogging. Christie is every bit as sweet in person as I would've guessed and Sam is every bit as adorable. I got to hold him for awhile and get spit up on, but who minds a little bit of spit up when you're holding a precious child? Marky Mark is the same. Firing off question after question in true interrogation form to find out as much information about my life now in as little time as possible. Though he terrorized me as a child, I can see that he's grown up to be a pretty fantastic husband and father, and I couldn't be happier for him.

Shortly thereafter Sarah Jane & Ryan arrived. It's always so much fun to catch up with these two. We chatted about teaching and got to hear some really hilarious stories of students and co-workers. Ryan always manages to find himself in the most unusual situations which lends itself nicely to great stories. In any case, it's always nice to visit with friends who haven't changed completely just because they're adults. We still laughed at the same poop and fart jokes...

Finally, David showed up to round out our crew. I just adore David. He has always been a kindred spirit of mine, and though we didn't get nearly as much time together to talk, I still thoroughly enjoyed visiting with him in the context of our old group of friends.

We sat down to a wonderfully prepared dinner of chicken from the grill, roasted potatoes and a great spinach salad with tomatoes, and gorgonzola (and rolls!). It was such a fun time of fellowship and remembering old times. Christie even made snickerdoodles which we completely devoured forcing Lorie to bust out some chocolate chip dough from the fridge.

Eventually, we made our way back into the living room to watch The Office (which had a sweet moment that Lorie and I totally 'girled out' over) and 30 Rock ("We count those votes too"). But it was getting late, and soon it was time to say goodbye.

I always hate saying goodbye to my friends here because I never know when I might see them again. Especially with my parents thinking of eventually making the move to the Pacific Northwest, it breaks my heart to think that I wouldn't have an excuse then to come down and visit them. I'd love for my children to be friends with their children, but as life goes on, it seems to get in the way of these hopes being realized. But I really enjoyed myself last night and even thought as I drove home that I think I'd be able to eventually get used to the weather and live here if it meant getting to see these friends more often. I dunno. I guess for all of my youthful 'big talk' about NEVER moving back to Bakersfield, the valuable realtionships I've been able to maintain with life-long friends can soften those hard edges.

Thank you, Chamblesses, for opening your home for our little reunion last night and for graciously feeding all of us. Your generosity of heart and home made it a night to remember. I'm so glad to have blogger to keep in touch and up to date with all that you have going on in your lives. Know that I think of you all often and with much fondness...

I love you all!

*I regrettably didn't get any pictures of last night. Between the chatting and the eating I didn't grab the chance to take my camera out...and truthfully, I was pretty intimidated to take pics with my little point and shoot in the presence of both Lorie and David*

Day 7

2008-04-16T22:56:00.001-07:00

Today was all about hanging with my folks. And we had a really great day together...

Both my parents had some work to do earlier in the morning at the office which was fine since I slept in again. By the time I was up, my mom had come home to take me to lunch at The Country Rose Cottage & Bistro which is a really sweet little house on H Street where a lot of antique stores are located. It's been around for over 60 years boasting that nothing but a new bay window in the living room has changed since they've been open. It is a really quaint older building filled to the brim with knick knacks and tea sets. They sell specialized lotions and soaps, teddy bears and special teas. It's the kind of place that would serve as the perfect backdrop for a bridal shower or a birthday tea party for little girls.
My mom and I both had raspberry iced tea (delicious!), half a turkey croissant sandwich with cranberry sauce and cream cheese, and a cup of cheesy potato leek soup. It was the perfect lunch and very reasonably priced. We had a great time chatting and just spending quality time with each other...something we haven't been able to do in quite some time. Sometimes a gal just needs her mom and I've got a really great one.

After lunch we met my dad for another round of golf. We headed back out to Buena Vista Golf Course, this time with my mom who graciously agreed to tag along and drive the cart. We didn't get started until 1:15pm, so it was already a bit on the warm side (you all know what a wuss I am when it comes to heat) but there was a nice light breeze that blew through every once in awhile. I was able to hold my own a little bit more this round and tried my best not to mooch off of my dad's superior shots. I even got a couple of pars all by myself! About 3 holes into the front 9 we were joined by a couple who had caught up to us. Eric, the husband, is a really seasoned golfer who has done a fair share of golf lessons and was able to offer me some very valuable tips along the way. Christine came along for support, a new golfer who has yet to make it onto the course. We played with them for the remainder of the front 9 and then agreed to get together for another round on Friday for some more tips.
On the back 9, I finally started doing better...hitting my drives straighter and farther, chipping my ball onto the green rather than over the fence, and sinking some very impressive puts. That didn't last terribly long. I joked with my mom that it takes me 9 holes to warm up, then I'm really good for 2 holes and then I start to suck again. My dad blamed it on taking too many practice swings before I finally took my shot. I blamed it on the sun. Either way, by the time we finally eeked our way through the final 18th hole, you could stick a fork in me...I was done. In fact, the mere act of typing this blog entry makes me cringe with each keystroke. But we had a really good time together as a family, "enjoying" the sunshine, sharing some laughs, and making new friends.
What could top off a day like that? Chicken taquitos from Baja Fresh...mmm.

Can't wait til tomorrow!!

Day 6 (well, yesterday)

2008-04-16T09:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was SO fun! I had a chance to hang out with Lorie & Henry for most of the afternoon and had the best time.

After sleeping in until 9-ish (YAY!), I headed out to the sticks where the Chamblesses live in their gorgeous and comfortable home just in time for Henry to wake up from his nap. He was a little shy at first (who isn't right after a long nap?) and wouldn't take his eyes off of me ("who is this chick? and what's she doing here?"). But after a little while he warmed up and was a total joy for the rest of the afternoon. Lorie says he was on his best behavior, and I think she was relieved to have such a content baby for the afternoon. We met David for lunch at Sequoia Sandwich Company for really yummy sandwiches (and a healthy heaping of carrot cake!). We even ate outside as the sun is still shining brightly, but the temperature has dropped considerably to be in the comfortable 70's. I love this brother/sister combo...they're so honest, so real, so funny, but with so much love. It was a real treat to spend time with both of them and see the truly amazing sibling bond they have developed together. It was also SO good to see David (who I'm pretty sure I haven't seen since M&M's wedding 4 years ago...and even then, only briefly). We were friends through church from elementary school through high school and even moved up to Seattle at the same time but lost touch. Yet, it feels as though little time has passed (don't you love it when that happens?).

After lunch, Lorie & the shrimp and I headed to Target (fun!) to have a look around. We managed somehow to leave the store without purchasing anything, which I consider a triumph...I don't know that I've ever left Target without getting something. By the way, Henry was a complete angel all the way through lunch and through the store. Being on his best behavior must've worn him out completely because on the way back to the Chambless home he passed out. That gave Lorie and I some time to just hang out and have a chit chat, getting caught up on each other's lives and just enjoying each other's company. I decided that Lorie is a truly amazing woman...managing a family and a household, participating actively in their church, maintaining close ties with her friends, and actually accomplishing a career that she is so passionate about. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little green with envy by the time I said goodbye.

I immediately hopped on the phone with my husband and told him that he was in big trouble.
He asked, with trepidation, "Uh, why? What'd I do?"
I replied, "Nothing. It's just that I caught the fever this afternoon."
"What fever?" he asked.
"Of the baby persuasion."
"Oh. Well, good luck with that."

I'm so excited that I'll have another opportunity to see this lovely family this week as I'll be crashing their weekly family dinner with Uncle Dave on Thursday where I'll also be able to meet Christie & Sam, and visit with old friends Mark, Sarah Jane & Ryan. Yay! It's about time for my 10 year high school reunion, and these are the folks I'd most want to see anyway.

It's times like these when I think I could really live in Bakersfield again, in a community filled with good friends from my past who knew me when I was younger (and still like me!) and love me today. But then I get in my car which is 95 degrees on a 75 degree day and remember why my body won't let me live here. I think I might be allergic to the sun...

Thanks, Lorie Henry & David for a really lovely afternoon! I love you guys!

Day 5

2008-04-14T17:20:00.000-07:00

Day 5? Wow...I've been away from home for almost a whole week and while I am having a total blast visiting with family and friends, I am truly missing my husband. It occurs to me that in the 4 1/2 years that we've dated (and now married) this trip might mark the longest stretch that we've been apart. It sounds so lame to say but it really does feel like a part of me is missing (cue the cheesy music). Anyway, I just wanted to say that I appreciate with every passing moment the truly amazing man whom I feel so lucky to call my husband.

That being said, today started early with a round of golf with my dad at the Buena Vista golf course in Taft. We hit the road at 6am, made a quick stop at Starbucks (yum!) and made it just in time for a 6:45am tee time. For the first 3 holes we played separately, with my dad destroying me. After another 2 holes where neither one of us did very well we decided to switch to a scramble, or best ball. What it really is is cheating. We each tee off but play off whoever's ball is closest to the pin, or has a better lie. Once we started playing this way, our score started improving immensely (duh).

I forgot to bring my camera in my haste to leave the house on time which I immediately regretted as the morning was really beautiful. In true Bakersfield form, however, the temperature started climbing quickly by the time we finished the front 9. It was also really windy which makes a sometimes aggrevating sport even more difficult and frustrating, particularly for a new golfer like myself. Needless to say, my dad and I saw a lot of the course, probably some areas that most golfers there never know exist. By the time we finished all 18 holes, around 11:30, it was 87 degrees and I was exhausted. And that farmer's tan I got driving down here is even darker...so, that's awesome. Between the two of us we shot an 86, which my dad tells me is a pretty respectable score.

After coming back to the house to shower and change clothes I headed to my parent's office to have lunch with them and had a chance to visit with some of their co-workers, who are all so amazing. My dad's administrative assistant is a fellow blogger's mother. She is the largest ray of sunshine...so personable and sweet, so expressive and sweet, so energetic and sweet, and did I mention that she's sweet? She helped throw my Bakersfield bridal shower last summer in the midst of preparing for her own son's wedding. It's always such a joy to get to catch up with her.

But the highlight of my afternoon may have been taking my dirty, filthy, windshield-riddled-with-bugs car to the car wash (talkin 'bout the car wash, yeah). The location on White Lane has a "happy hour" from 2pm to close where a car wash is $7.99. They washed the car, hand dried it, vacuumed it, and added new car smell. Now I have a sparkling clean car that smells new. Is there anything better?

My dad is barbequeing a pork loin and roasting potatoes for dinner and we've rented Enchanted and Stranger Than Fiction for later...I'm looking forward to a quiet night at home with the 'rents.

I am REALLY excited to get to spend some time this week with my good friends Lorie, Scott & Henry; David; Mark, Christie & Sam (hopefully); Colleen (maybe); and maybe even Ryan & SJ, whom I've been friends with since the third grade.

More on that later (and hopefully lots of great pictures)!!!

*sorry today was so uneventful...I promise to have more interesting posts soon*

**also, I will post my observations on driving, but later when my dad isn't watching last night's Simpsons**

Day 4...yawn

2008-04-13T22:31:00.000-07:00

I arrived in Bakersfield around 5pm today and spent a quiet evening with my folks...

I'll post tomorrow about my long drive here from Portland, but I would like to ask a question...

It is April, right? Not August? So can someone explain to me why it was 247 degrees today along the I-5 corridor? Great, I already have a farmer's tan and it's not even May yet...

Goodnight!

Day 3

2008-04-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

So, today was a little less hectic, but we still managed to get a lot done. The three of us went to "The Original Pancake House" for breakfast which was good, but not as good as Dean's yesterday. And, if I may, I find it bothersome this restaurant is a chain with locations all over the United States. How are we, the consumers, supposed to feel not knowing whether the location we are eating at is THE Original Pancake House or not? I have to say, not knowing this made the whole breakfast experience less enjoyable. Well, that and the group 9 high schoolers who came in just after we got our food and started spilling coffee all over the table and floor. Punk kids...

After breakfast we took a leisurely drive along the Columbia River to the Vista House in the Columbia Gorge which is a really cool museum/gift shop/look out over the Columbia River. The day was simply beautiful with crystal clear blue skies dotted occassionally with whispy clouds. I was able to get a pretty good shot (below) which I'll submit for this week's PhotoPie Challenge.

Oh, did I mention that the wind was blowing 180,000 miles per hour?
Thorougly windblown, we returned home to work on more wedding-related craft projects. Today it was assembling gift boxes for close family and the wedding party with a fun surprise inside (I won't ruin it for those who will be receiving them at the wedding, and who might be reading this blog). Monique is ridiculously crafty and SO creative, so each item is meticulously thought through and executed beautifully.

While we were working on the boxes, we had a visitor. His name is Larry and he's the closest thing to a pet that Thomas has. He is a 3-legged squirrel whom Thomas feeds on his back patio, and he's pretty stinkin cute. I think he was apprehensive to come too close since I'm a stranger, but I definitely noticed him perk his ears up when Thomas called out his name (too funny). The leg he's missing is his front left leg (which is hidden behind the branch in this picture), but he's very able and surprisingly fast when scrambling from branch to branch.
After all the excitement of the past couple of days, the three of us are pretty exhausted. I think the three of us will put on our pjs and watch Across the Universe till we all pass out.

Then tomorrow morning, hopefully no later than 4am, I'll say goodbye to my brother-in-law and future sister-in-law and head to Bakersfield...a scant 837 mile drive, which, according to Google maps, should take me approximately 13 hours and 15 minutes. I don't know how much picture taking I'll do along the way, and I might be too tired to blog tomorrow night. I guess we'll just have to wait and see if anything really exciting happens along the way.

Bakersfield or Bust!

Day 2

2008-04-11T21:57:00.000-07:00

*Whew*

Today was a long day...a very productive and fun day, but long nonetheless.

I woke up this morning, very well-rested, around 8am and came downstairs to make myself a cup of tea. Thomas was already awake and watching tv so we had a quiet, lovely moment to chat. We eventually woke Monique and got ourselves dressed, and made our way to the small town of Damascus, about 25 minutes outside of Portland, where we had a truly amazing breakfast at Dean's Homestyle Cafe. This place has the really kitchy, country diner feel with customers ranging from Hell's Angels, to older gentlemen who are clearly regulars, to a foursome looking like they were on their way to tee time. I had a perfectly portioned breakfast of two eggs (overeasy), with 2 slices of bacon, and two slices of sourdough toast, complete with homemade raspberry jam and a great cup 'o joe.
Thomas and Monique had equally delicious and satisfying breakfasts (although mine was the only plate that ended up totally clean). We pushed our plates aside and got out their big box of wedding invitations...which, Monique and Thomas lovingly hand-made. Between the three of us we added additional invites to the rehearsal dinner to those family and close friends who will be included in their big day and sealed them all...155 of 'em! A sweet woman at the table next to ours warned us to beware that we could all end up dead from licking the envelopes...obviously a Seinfeld fan!
After we left Dean's we took a scenic trip to Aurora to drive by the location of their wedding ceremony and reception at the well-manicured Heritage House Garden. The garden itself is really beautiful and will serve as the perfect backdrop to their summer wedding and the entire estate is surrounded by a hazelnut orchard (mmm...hazelnuts...). I learned today that outside of Greece, Oregon is the largest exporter of hazelnuts in the world! You learn something new every day...

We dropped the invitations off at the post-office and headed home to work on the wedding favors. These are the sweetest little envelopes that Monique painstakingly stamped (198 of 'em!) which we filled with Leucanthemum x superbum seeds (aka. shasta daisies). Monique then sewed a little card to each envelope which reads...
She (cleverly) sewed the favors in long strands so that she didn't have to keep cutting them off the sewing machine each time, leaving us with long strands of these adorable favors. I volunteered to cut them apart while watching the new The Office and 30 Rock...I know David wasn't a fan, but I was so happy to have new episodes on that I'd have watched 30 minutes of either Steve Carrell or Tina Fey farting and been plenty entertained...
After we finished up the wedding favors, we headed to the other side of Portland to visit Monique's sister (Colette) and brother-in-law (Fletcher) and their newborn identical twin boys, Eli & Dane who will both be a month old on April 18th. This is (obviously) my brother-in-law Thomas holding both the twins (Dane is on the left and Eli is on the right). The boys are a pretty healthy size for newborns, but in Thomas's big arms look like tiny dolls. Adorable.We finally made it to dinner at Ruby Tuesdays at 8pm for a really delicious dinner...but all three of us were wiped (Monique looked like she could probably fall asleep face first into her chicken pot pie if she stopped moving for too long), so we headed home to crawl into pjs and get some good rest (of course, I had to blog about the day first).

But now I'm off to bed to rest up for more fun, wedding-related craft projects tomorrow! Stay tuned for an update of my adventure!

Road Trip!!!

2008-04-10T17:33:00.000-07:00

It's road trip time, ladies and gentlemen! I decided since I'm not currently employed that I'd treat myself to a little driving adventure. So I headed out today (after a long goodbye with my husband) and made the short jaunt to Portland to spend a couple of days with my brother-in-law Thomas and his fiance Monique. I've been told that I'll be put to work helping them do little crafty wedding-related projects (get invitations ready to mail out & assemble wedding favors) but I'm really just looking forward to spending time with them, drinking lots of tea and definitely laughing...a lot.
I'm planning on crashing here until Saturday and then making the long drive down to Bakersfield to visit with my folks and some great friends.

I've packed my iPod, huge book of cds, a sack full of snacks and a tank full of gas...

Stay tuned for more updates!

Ah...Springtime in the Pacific Northwest

2008-03-27T11:52:00.000-07:00

Someone forgot to tell Seattle that it's springtime everywhere else in the world. I love everyone's beautiful spring pictures for EmilyPie's photo challenge...and sadly, this is the best that I could muster. This is just what springtime means in the Pacific Northwest...rain, and lots of it.

*pay no attention to the dirty windows, please*

I'd complain more, but all this rain leads to a most gorgeous, lush, green summertime. I will, however, complain about the temperature. While in other places the temperature is a balmy 70 degrees, here in Seattle it is a brisk 39 degrees. Yes, people. 39!!! That's just 5 degrees above freezing!

Springtime my butt...

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

Edited 3/28/08

Now it's snowing, people

stop this train...

2008-03-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

*phew*

Have you ever had one of those days when you feel overwhelmed with a realization about yourself? Where it seems that your vision clears and you can see yourself for who you really are for the first time? And maybe it's something that you're not particularly proud of?

That was me today. Well, me over the last couple of months.

See, I've always been someone who looks forward. My mother likes to tell the story of how when I was 5 I just couldn't wait to be 6. Once I turned 6 I just couldn't wait to be 7 and so on, and so on. And I remember this. I remember being in elementary school and I couldn't wait to be in junior high. When I was a tween, I couldn't wait to turn 16 and get my driver's license. Once I had my license, I couldn't wait to graduate high school and drive out of Bakersfield. In college, I was excited to graduate and get a real job, get married and have kids. And now that I'm married, I REALLY can't wait to have kids. Heck, I can't wait to retire someday (the irony being that I'm currently unemployed).

I was kind of proud that I was so forward thinking. I've never been one of those people who hates getting older and lies about their age. I did make Erich promise me one child before I'm 30, but I've never put a timeline on my life other than that.

Then I got married. And had no job. Which equals lots of time to think.

I love John Mayer and listen to his album Continuum often. I really love all of the songs on the album, but one song in particular kind of pulls at my heartstrings whenever I hear it. It's called "Stop This Train" and is how he wishes he could stop life where he is, stop his parents from getting older and dying, stop the speed of life when it feels like too much. He even says he's scared of getting old, that he's only good at being young. And this song always makes me stop and think...is my life moving too fast? Have I been looking forward at the future and missing the life that's happening around me right now? After all, I will never get this time back. What happens when I'm 85 looking back at my life. Will I be disappointed that I didn't take full advantage of each moment in my life? Wouldn't that be terrible?

So, I'm trying to change. And change is hard. But I want to savor these moments in my present life, the sweet special moments I have with my husband before we have kids, all of the laughter and joy I share with my friends when we find time in our lives to be together, and even revisiting times I've shared with people from my past. I treasure blogger, myspace and now facebook for giving me an opportunity to reconnect with those who had such an impact on my life from childhood on. Like my friend Dan who was such a pain in my butt in high school, but without whom I wouldn't have been so competative with academically...I might not have graduated high school with the GPA I did had it not been for him. He also taught me humility and patience.

Or one of my college roommates Kaitlin who is literally the sweetest person I've ever known. We only actually lived together for one quarter in a cramped "triple" (what our university called cramming three people into a 9'x12' cinder block cell), but I think we probably laughed the entire time.
Blogging has allowed me to get to know the wife of Scott, one of my dearest friends from childhood.

His wife Lorie, is one of the most amazing people I have gotten the pleasure to know...and all over the internet. She's honest, funny, ambitious, creative, a doting mom, and if that wasn't enough, she's gorgeous too. I apparently was an intimidating jerk to her when she was younger and I couldn't feel worse about it. I was probaby too occupied being excited about getting older to be nice to the younger sister of one of my close friends (who I am also so thrilled to be back in touch with).

All of these are people that I regret not spending more time enjoying while I had the opportunity and so catching up with them now feels like, well, catching up. And I feel lucky to be having this realization about myself now rather than 40 years from now.

So, in the wise words of John Mayer I encourage everyone who might read this, "don't stop this train, don't for a minute change the place you're in".

*these are all senior pictures as I can't seem to find any of my other old pictures*

SO very funny!

2008-03-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

So if you haven't noticed, we've added a new blog to "our blogger buddies" called Stuff White People Like. It is SO funny. I try to read it to Erich every day and we always at least get a chuckle if not a full blown hysterical episode. Being white, we can usually identify personally with the items on the list...but we always at least know some white person who likes whatever it is that we read about.

If you find a second with nothing to do, check it out (and make sure you have enough time to glance through the other items on the list).

One of our personal favorites is #11...you'll have to see for yourself. It's basically the story of our relationship.

Enjoy!

I need to have my head examined...

2008-03-04T17:54:00.001-08:00

So Erich and I go grocery shopping quarterly, meaning we save up one long afternoon where we will go out and buy everything we might possibly need for the next 3 months. I don't think we really do it on purpose...usually we just completely run out of milk, eggs, butter, toilet paper, shampoo, toothpaste, etc., and then decide that it must be time to go shopping (rather than running to the local drug store or specialty store to pick up one item at a time).

Today was that day. We went to Fred Meyer because the past couple of times we've gone to Top Foods, we love the dry goods and produce, but the meat selection isn't great and the prices are kind of high. Having both worked at Fred Meyers, though, we tend to drag our feet shopping there since we don't like running into people we worked with (even though their prices are usually much more reasonable). We bit the bullet and even remembered to bring our reusable canvas grocery bags.

We typically do all of our dry goods and grocery shopping first, pay for it, take it out to the car and then come back in for the perishable and frozen foods (it's a pretty big shopping trip). Today it took us about 3.5 hours from the time we set foot in the store til we were driving out of the parking lot. Needless to say, by the time we got home, made a couple of trips to unload the car and unloaded the groceries, we were both tired.

All of this to qualify what happened next.

We bought a butter dish because both of us have grown quite accustomed to having room temperature butter in the morning for bagels and english muffins. Here it is...

Well, since it was straight from the store, I didn't want to just put a stick of butter onto it...it looked pretty dusty. So I reached for a paper towel to wipe it down and found this...

That's right! We ran out! But we went to the store and got more! Where did we leave those paper towels? Oh, here's where they ended up...

...Right by our pile of shoes. Well, that's not where the paper towels and toilet paper go! The toilet paper goes in the bathroom and the paper towels go in the laundry closet above the dryer! I'll just put it away...

That's better. Wait, are those towels in the dryer? How long have they been there? I should probably fold them now before I forget again.

Ahh, nothing better than folding laundry while watching Arrested Development. I just love that episode! Well, I guess I should put these away before I start dinner.

What's better than butter on mashed potatoes? I'll just get butter from our new butter dish. Wait, didn't I put butter in this earlier? It's still dusty, I should wipe it out with a paper towel. the paper towel holder is empty, we must've run out! Good thing we bought more today...

...I am seriously deranged...

*these pictures are a dramatization

Sadie, Sadie...Married Lady

2008-03-04T12:06:00.000-08:00

So my best friend, my maid of honor, recently got engaged to her sweetheart of a boyfriend on February 2nd. And they've decided to get married on August 26th. For those of you who just checked that date, yes, it is a Tuesday. This is just who they are...a little unconventional and very much original. They've already chosen the church where they will get married and the place where the reception will be held...both beautiful locations which will serve as the backdrop for my best friend's most important day. They've even already chosen and arranged for the flowers they will have at their wedding which will be a really lovely color palette and (again) unique.

(I'm intentionally being a little vague so as not to ruin the effect for those readers of this blog who will be attending this joyous occassion)

Well, anyway, Anna (the bride), her mother, and I went wedding dress shopping this last Sunday to see if we could find The Dress. We met at her apartment on Capitol Hill at 10am to have coffee & tea and a light bite to eat before her first appointment at 11:30am here. Pictured below is Anna trying to enjoy a cup of tea, some mini muffins, pear slices and gouda cheese (all of which she prepared for us), but truth be told, I think she was a little bit anxious about finding-or not finding-her wedding dress. I love the color of her kitchen wall with the black framed photographs behind her and the natural light that fills the room. It's not the best candid shot, but it's so meaningful to me as this is just a few short moments before she found what could be the dress she will wear on the day she marries her best friend.

We went to her first appointment (the same place where we bought her bridesmaids dress)...an adorable boutique on 45th in Wallingford which is just 3 blocks from where Erich's childhood home is located...tear. It was a kind of busy in the little shop but we were given the freedom to pick out as many dresses as we thought she could try on within an hour (and within the loose guidelines she had in her mind of elements of the dress she really wanted). She tried on probably 7 or 8 dresses before she put on a dress which, in her own words, "On the hanger looked like it would be really cool or a total disaster." But it was breathtaking on her. It fit her like a glove and just, well, screamed "Anna!" So she listed it among her top 3 and we headed down the street here for brunch, which was SO reasonable and SO delicious.

Her second appointment was at 2pm here (where, incidentally, I got my wedding dress). I think she wanted to go here for the experience more than thinking she would actually find her dress because this place is amazing. Funnily enough, the same gal that helped me helped Anna too so it was a fun little reunion. She tried on a number of pretty gowns, and one exceptionally glamorous gown, but nothing that moved her like the one at the other boutique. We attempted to go back to the other shop so she could try it on again, but they were too busy, so we'll have to do it another day.

But it was so fun and so special to be included in that day with her and her mom. We had a great time, lots of laughs, a few tears, and tons of memories. We'll see what she ends up picking in 5 short months...but irregardless of what dress she choses, I know she'll be glowing as she's walking down the aisle to marry the man of her dreams.

Don't blink or you'll miss it!

2008-02-27T10:44:00.000-08:00

Not bad, eh?

An afternoon at the driving range...

2008-02-26T20:00:00.000-08:00

So Erich and I decided at the beginning of the year to have a more healthy lifestyle, i.e. no more fast food, no more soft drinks, cut way back on candy and other sweets and start working out regularly. Well, we've done a really good job of sticking to our newer healthy eating habits but have yet to make a real routine out of going to the gym and working out. But we were determined to start being active regularly so we went to the gym yesterday and had a great hard workout. When we got home though, Erich got a message from the gym saying that his membership had expired but that they hadn't realized it until he checked in that day. *By the way, what kind of shoddy operation are they running that they didn't realize his membership had expired? If you were trying to run a profitable business, wouldn't you have reminders to be sent out to your members so that they stay members? Food for thought.*

Rather than go through the hassle of going to the gym and renewing his membership, Erich suggested that we go to the driving range instead. It'd be a great chance to get outside and hit a bucket of balls...something we haven't had an opportunity to do in a long time. So we drove down to Interbay Golf Center and got a jumbo bucket of balls.

Here's Erich getting ready to swing. The clubs he was using belong to Interbay and I think they are too short for him, but all the same he did a great job!

I tried uploading a very short video that Erich took of my swing...looked pretty good too, if I do say so myself...maybe didn't use my hips enough, but still...but it wouldn't load...I'll try again tomorrow...

And below is my submission to EmilyPie's photo competition for a macro photo. These are, of course, my golf clubs. Pictured are my five wood, four hybrid, six iron, sand wedge and pitching wedge. I held out filling out the rest of my golf bag until I get better at golfing so for now these will have to do...

Golf anyone?

Game Night at the Montgomery's

2008-02-19T13:42:00.000-08:00

So on Saturday we had our first ever game night at Josh & Teresa's house. In attendance were Josh, Teresa, Erich, myself, Berto, Jen, Melo, Shea, Zahra & Rishaun, most of which are immensely competative (my people).

We started out with a couple of rounds of Catch Phrase (original and music edition)...

Here's Erich trying to describe "Behind These Hazel Eyes" by Kelly Clarkson...and judging by the looks on Rishaun and Shea's face, not going a great job.

After a number of loud rounds of Catch Phrase we split into 2 different groups. Rishaun, Teresa, Erich and Berto played Tiles at the kitchen table and the rest of us played Egyptian Rat Screw and Bullsh*t.

We took advantage of the fact that we had 2 Wii Guitars and many of us took turns getting our butts handed to us at Guitar Hero...Jen & Berto are both freaks of nature when it comes to this game.

This is Melo and me.

Does anyone else think Scattergories gets harder the later at night you play?

The gorgeous Jen & me.

The whole gang.

It was such a fun night, I can't wait to do it again!

Happy Valentines Day from the Schienbeins

2008-02-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had as lovely a day as we did.

First, we went to Best Buy to get Erich his Valentine's Day present (he had already given me the third season of Gilmore Girls and I had yet to get him anything...I am an avid procrastinator).

We ended up getting him World in Conflict (a PC war game, yawn) and Endless Ocean (a Wii game about the, well, the ocean, yawn). But they were his presents to be enjoyed fully by him. While at Best Buy I picked up Say Anything for me...for $4.99!! Oh, Johnny Cusack, could you be more weird and adorable?

When we got home it was time to get cookin. I had an amazing, if not daunting meal in store and our tummies were growling. We feasted on Gorgonzola Topped Filet Mignon (cooked to perfection I might add) with a cognac reduction, garlic mashed red and yukon potatoes, and steamed green beans with lemon and butter. After we awoke from our food-induced coma (or, the "itis" for those who watch The Boondocks) we each had a slice of a decadent chocolate cake with strawberries and whipped cream! YUM!

I have literally enough energy to finish typing this blog before I pass out again...so hope you all enjoyed your day!

With much love and a full belly,

The Schienbeins

adorable...

2008-02-09T19:47:00.000-08:00

Homage to Sarah Bear

2008-02-08T19:06:00.000-08:00

This is Sarah Bear for those of you who don't know already. I have had her since I was 2 (which makes her 25) when my Grandpa won her for me at the Oregon State Fair. He felt badly because I had recently lost my previous bear, by the name of Bear, while our family was taking a boat ride. I was apparently inconsolable about the loss so my Grandpa felt compelled to replace what I had held so dearly. And I think it is probably safe to say that I haven't spent more than a dozen or so nights without her since then.

...yes, that's right, I still sleep with my teddy bear.

But in my defense, she's a pretty great bear. I remember when I used to be angry with my parents or my brother and I'd stomp into my room, slam the door and scream at her...she never screamed back. I remember being devastated in the fifth grade when my "boyfriend" and his family moved to another state. I threw myself on my bed and cried for hours on Sarah...she let me cry it out and cuddled with me when I finally fell asleep. I remember when I got accepted to SPU and had a "serious" chat with my mom about whether it was too baby of me to take Sarah to college...she came and met a lot of cool, new people. Now I'm married and thought that now that I have a real "bear" to sleep with maybe I don't need her anymore. Well, let's just say that I don't get to cuddle with her every night anymore.

I like to crinkle her ear with my fingers as I'm falling asleep...I find it immensely soothing.

But this has clearly taken a toll on them.

This is a particularly bad part on her face, just under her left eye where not only has the fur been rubbed off, but now the material is starting to deteriorate.

Quite awhile ago, Sarah developed a pretty nasty hole in her foot. A simple stitch wouldn't have closed it up properly so I decided to patch her up. It's not great, especially since you can't really tell that it says "love"...looks more like "lole" or "vove". But I think it's charming.

This is the most recent "scar". It is a hole that opened on the seam above her right eye which stretched all the way from the black of her eye to her ear...pretty devastating. So I did the best I could to sew it back up.

This is Sarah Bear doing what she loves best...watching Tivo'd shows with me and Erich. She's really an "inside bear".

Anyway, the reason for this homage is that we have decided to send Sarah Bear to the Teddy Bear Hospital to get all fixed up. It has been surprising to me how emotional I've gotten over this decision, especially since she's just a bear. But it's more than that, isn't it? For anyone who has had a special item, be it a baby blanket or a stuffed animal, a body pillow or an oversized sweatshirt, an item that has weathered failed relationships, midterms and finals, graduations, promotions and other lifetime successes and failures, isn't it alright to be slightly more than attached?

For me the problem is that I imagine in order for Sarah Bear to be fixed up she'll need to be dismantled and restuffed, with new "fur", eyes, nose and mouth. She wouldn't come back the same bear. She might look the same but she might not feel the same and she certainly wouldn't smell the same. Is it worth it? But almost every day I find a new hole or really worn spot on her fur that needs to be sewn back together or patched and I'm really afraid that one of these days I'll wake up and find her head has become detached from her body. This is a terrifying prospect.

So, Erich, my loving husband, started looking online for someone who might be able to fix her and found the Teddy Bear Hospital which seems like it's a trustworthy, successful organization who can help us. And we've decided that we will eventually send her in to get all fixed up so that we can have another 25 years with her.

I wasn't convinced until Erich looked me in the eye and said, "When we send her away, she'll be your bear. When she comes back, she'll be ours."

And I cried.

yummy...

2008-02-08T13:40:00.001-08:00

so I'm new to this whole blogger universe but I just found an amazing blogger...

I was googling "gorgonzola meatloaf" (my hubby and I are having a craving) and found "just recipes"...it's amazing! if you're thinking of making something special for Valentines Day, she has a couple of delicious looking desserts on her first page.

I hope you enjoy her as much as I do! (and please forgive me if this is old news...I'm just so excited!)

...sigh...

2008-02-01T19:21:00.000-08:00

does anyone miss Arrested Development as much as we do? remember what a smart, quick, witty, hilarious and original tv show this was? oh Gob with your hot hot magician moves to "The Final Countdown"...and George Michael with your confusing crush on your cousin...Maeby, with your curly hair and secret grown-up job at that movie studio...Buster with your "hey brother" and creepy shoulder massages...and my favorite, Tobias, with your "never-nude" cut offs...

we have been reduced to watching Canadian television in order to watch episodes (we own the seasons on DVD, but it's not the same). did you hear me? CANADIAN television. I'm humiliated that the Canadians are smart enough to re-run episodes of this brilliant show...where's the love America?

...sigh...tear...

Look what happened last night...

2008-01-28T08:45:00.000-08:00

it snowed!!!

I've not been sleeping well since just before the wedding, so I was awake when Erich left for work this morning at 5:30am (gross, I know). I was laying on the couch as Erich opened the front door and exclaimed, "It's snowing!". I scrambled off the couch and ran to the door (in my PJs) and was shocked to see about 2 inches of snow already covering the ground and no sign of the snow stopping anytime soon. So I took out the old camera around 8am to take some pictures of this beautiful sight around our condo complex.

The picture above is of my favorite tree. Yes, I have a favorite tree. It sits outside our back patio next to the pool and we have full view of it during all the seasons. It hovers majestically, greeting me each day as I stand looking out of our kitchen window. Clearly it is beautiful when the branches are bare except for a healthy heaping of snow. But it is equally exquisit during the summer when the leaves are lush and green, and it sways in the light breeze while neighborhood kids shriek and laugh as they swim. Autumn might be my favorite time for this tree, though, when it's leaves start changing colors...vibrant yellows and crispy oranges with hints of deep, dark reds. I guess we'll all have to wait another 9 months before we see that again...

...so for now, I'll drink my morning cup of joe admiring the winter wonderland that is my backyard...

Those Crazy Rabbids

2008-01-26T07:28:00.000-08:00

Josh, Stacia, Dylan, Teresa, Shea, and Melo(under Shea's leg)

doing some laundry in Rayman's Rabbids 2 on the Wii...

creepy...in an adorable kind of way...

2008-01-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

I was reading the latest blog entry by Lorie & Scott which has a video of their handsome son Henry laughing (adorable)...but for some reason our laptop decided to go into "standby" mode right in the middle of the video which, for a moment or two, just showed our new desktop display (below) with Henry's giggle in the background (creepy).

how seriously disturbing would it be if the Joker's laugh sounded like an infants? eww...

"It's a beautiful day...wanna go outside?"

2008-01-21T13:21:00.000-08:00

Erich came home from work at 8am this morning and woke me up to say that it is a beautiful day (which it is) and did I want to do something outside?

I stared at him blankly...asked him if he had met us before...and promptly pulled the covers back over my head...

silly man...

It's Tiles People!!!

2008-01-20T12:08:00.000-08:00

God bless our best friends Josh and Teresa...We try to get together every Saturday to play games (video, board and recently card too) and eat food that's bad for us, and catch up. It is always a good time, especially when the games get really competative and tense.

You might be wondering what the above image is...allow me to share my pride with you.

Last year, Teresa begged us to play "dominos" with her since it's a game she has played most of her life with her family (who are apparently extrordinarily good and, therefore, no fun to play with). I had never played "dominos" before, except to set them up in elaborate configurations just to knock them all down. So, begrudgingly, I agreed to play (I don't typically like to play games that I'm not confident I can win...it's a horrible character flaw and I'm not proud of it). But by some fluke (and after much trash talking on Teresa's part) I managed to win...and I was as surprised as anyone! I thought Teresa's head was going to explode!

Well, earlier in the evening I had mistakenly referred to "dominos" as "tiles" (maybe it's the Asian in me...who knows), which immediately threw Teresa into a fit as "tiles" is apparently never to be used when referring to "dominos". So naturally when I won, I declared that "dominos" would henceforth be called "tiles" until my victory was overturned.

I managed to avoid playing Teresa again until last night, very nearly a whole year after my initial victory. She had simply had enough of us calling the game she treasured so dearly "tiles", especially when we told the news to her family who were less than happy with what had happened. I sat at the table, washing the tiles, fully expecting a loss and a little sad that I would have to go back to calling the game "dominos" or "bones". We started the game and Teresa got an early lead, but I kept pace with her (surprisingly) falling a little behind in the third house until the third to last hand when I managed to lock the table for Teresa so that she had to pass. The next round my loving and supportive husband (who was also setting himself up for a position to win) put himself in a position to get a lot of points, which fortunately set me up to get a lot of points myself, much to Teresa's frustration. I was suddenly within striking distance of possibly winning the game...and Teresa knew it too. Suddenly it was all, "now wait a minute Erich...think about this...let's talk about this...I'm the loneliest number!"...but it was too late. Josh won that round keeping her from gaining any more points and putting me within 10 points of winning. Last hand comes and who wins again? Me!

And so "dominos" will be called "tiles" for another year...GLORIOUS VICTORY!

*Special thanks to Josh and Erich who helped make this win possible...

The Schienbeins Brave the World of Blogging...

2008-01-19T09:54:00.000-08:00

i've been wanting to blog since I found Lorie & Scott's blog but was too intimidated to begin...plus I didn't feel like I had that much to say. but I got married at the end of last year and am excited to spread the word!

here are some pictures from our amazing day...

all in all, it was the most amazing day of my life...the first of many to come!