:: Curious Georges ::

New Family and New Blog

2010-06-02T15:09:00.000-07:00

We would love for you all to follow us in action!

http://jacksonsnaction.blogspot.com/

This Season Sneak - Wipeout

2010-05-27T14:22:00.000-07:00

So excited! I will be enduring the course Tuesday, August 31 at 8/7c on ABC!!!!!

Love Hurts 6-1 - Wipeout

2010-05-27T14:21:00.000-07:00

So excited! I will be enduring the course Tuesday, August 31 at 8/7c on ABC!!!!!

Angel Babies

2010-05-05T13:35:00.000-07:00

It was such a great day and a wonderful event to "walk for the steps they'll never take". I have such love for Ashley and Tyson! Team Tatum for life!

Angel Babies on Facebook

EXCITEMENT

2010-05-05T12:54:00.001-07:00

I am think I will burst soon! I am so excited! The 15th is SO CLOSE!

Right now all I can see and think is sunflowers...but I love it!

Charlotte is going to love spending so muh time with friends and family! Right now I am enjoying how sweet she is to everyone. Her sassy self is still very present but the tantrums and definace are lessening. She is very much in to taking care of stuffed animals. Giving them hugs and blankets, putting them down for naps and giving them a "Botta". She will sing to them and it just melts my heart. Who would tear up to the tune of "Head shoulders knees and toes" ?

The Annoucement :-D

2010-04-24T11:25:00.001-07:00

We look forward to celebrating with all of you!

Thank you to Crystal and Elke for making these announcements possible!!! I am so lucky to have such talented sisters!!!!

HAWAII!!

2010-04-18T11:05:00.001-07:00

Above is Hanauma Bay!

Charlotte did great on the flight home because #1 we had an empty seat for her #2 it included nap time where she slept for 2.5 hours #3 the dvd player was fully charged (The flight there was a different story and I choose to block it out)

View of Honolulu

Our paradise pool complete with water slide

View of Waikiki

Hike to the water fall!

Ver muddy and slippery

We each jumped about 4-5 times! So fun!

Charlotte and the Sunset

USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor

Happy Charlotte at the PCC

On stage at the PCC

The whole gang! (minus Dad and a sleeping Elle)

We look like triplets...I don't know what everyone sees.

Playing with Uncle Benson on the Pinapple Express at the Dole Plantation

Choo choo!

The water babies! They LOVE the water! Everyday..."Go play in the water? Go kick kick kick? Ok Mommy?"

Sea turtles! Blair's favorite!

"Where't the birds Charlotte?" "I donno"

"FISH MOMMY! FISH!!! Right there"

FINALLY!!!

2010-03-15T23:58:00.001-07:00

After lots of paper work and logistics...one year later...I HAVE MY DEGREE!

The Zoo

2010-03-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

So I have a confession. I do not like the zoo. It makes me sad. But, it was a beautiful day and I knew Charlotte would like it. And she did! She could live there with no problems.

She loved climbing around in the rainforest.

And she loved talking about the animals with her cousins.

She loved the elephants and said they were dirty and needed to take a bath in the water.

They were stinky.

Reptiles were the highlight of the day. When we made it through all the windows...Charlotte said "Oh no. All done. Its over. Oh no!"

These cousins were so fun to watch together.

She said in a high pitched voice, "Come ear bird. Come ear. Tweet Tweet."

My big girl!

2010-03-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

I am blown away with how big she is! Charlotte is talking too much and saying so many things. Some I don't know who taught her. Such as "Dogs are barking mommy. That scares me. Hurry inside mommy. Scary mommy. Mommy inside!" No joke.

She is such a happy girl too. She make me smile and laugh so much. She loves to snuggle and give loves and kisses. Sharing with her cousins usually works out well. Charlotte likes to do it most of the time. But, I mean, who really likes to share everything all the time?

There are definately defiant and stubborn times. I remind myself she is 2 and she doesn't scare me...I am the one making the rules around here. But she can be so direct and say, "Outside mommy. Boots and socks on, Ok? Jacket? Outside mommy. Outside. Ok? Ok mommy? Ok?" and then after I do what she says "Thank you mommy. Kisses. I wove you. Bye mommy. Outside." How do you argue with such adorable control?

Well, I have decided to start weining the pacifier and start potty training. What is holding me back? Oh I know...the fact that its easier for ME to give her a paci to soothe her and the fact the there are no poopy clothes/floors/furniture/cars for ME to clean up. I will do it...eventually.

May I help you?

2010-02-22T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Story

2010-02-20T10:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I know its late (1 month late) but I still want to share the story!
The story of our ENGAGEMENT!!!

I had plans to go up and visit my Grandparents in Bellingham in January and as Blair and my relationship progressed, we planned on driving down to meet his family in Gig Harbor. I also requested to go kayaking...after explaining to me that it was off-season for kayaking, I reminded him I am a tough woman and want to go. I had no idea he later planned on proposing on our outing.

We lucked out on weather! It was gorgeous and the sun was out the whole time! We went around Raft island and then headed toward Dead Man's Island. He told me about how there are legends of buried treasure and how he wants to find it.
You can barely see the kayaks the wonderful Himmers let us borrow. It was so much fun! We reached the island and were walking around. Blair handed me a shovel and I said...seriously? We are not really digging are we? He said, "Let's just look for some X's". On the 3rd X of sticks I found this...

It was a beautiful music box with the perfect ring inside!
I said "YES" and could not be happier!!!

I know that Blair was sent to me and is meant to be my husband for time and eternity! I will keep you updated on wedding details as they develop!

TUTU Party on 2-2

2010-02-11T15:03:00.000-08:00

Charlotte don't eat the bubbles!!!

"You give me your candy, Ok?"

Pretty little tutus all in a row

Yay for bubbles!!!

We threw a Tutu party for Charlotte's second birthday on 2-2! She had a blast blowing bubbles and playing with all her friends and cousins who were in tutus too!

I Lell in Fove

2010-02-01T00:36:00.000-08:00

I am so Happy!

2009-12-16T23:57:00.000-08:00

I think I have been nice this year. No. I KNOW I have been nice this year. I know I am not amazing and can always improve when it comes to being a good friend or family member. But, I just want to share that I believe I am as happy as I am right now because of a lot of factors, and there are a few that really stand out as the main reasons.

My family, which has new meaning to me, is amazing! Wonderful! Supportive! Patient! And oh so loving! My family includes many close friends who I cherish so much. I would not have made it through all I have with out them all! I have felt so much compassion for women (and even men) you have had to struggle on their own...without the support of friends and family. The holiday season is a time to pull those you love near and show them how much you care. I may not have monetary means to shower them with gifts...but I know someday I will be able to repay them for all they have done for me.

My testimony of the Lord Jesus Christ and the Plan of Salvation/Happiness! All my primary and youth leaders planted so much in my heart and soul...I will forever be grateful to them for their time and patience with my overwhelming personality. I have such a confidence in who I am and where I came from. I know I am a Daughter of God and I am of great worth! I have been brought to tears thinking of how precious my young women leaders are for instilling that in my mind. The church's youth programs are so inspired and such a blessing. I used to think I would be so intimidated to be a young woman leader (and I may be setting me self up for something) but now I would love to nail down the young women values in those girls and hope they will believe they are so precious in His sight! I am so grateful to have known what I am worth and what I am deserving of and where I can derive strength when there seems to be nothing left.

Many people tell me I am so strong and that I always seem to know what to say and always made the right choice...I used to say "I don't know where it comes from because I never took a class on this." But I have realized (with the pointing out by Mama Farley) that I do know where it came from. It came from being spiritually prepared and stable. I knew what I believed and I strove to have the spirit with me constantly. I am no where near perfect...but I was taught and knew the Lord loves me and wants to bless me...so why say no to Him? Ask for his blessings and guidance and strive to listen to the direction he wants you to go. Soon you don't have go through the steps formally of stopping and praying. I used to HATE making DECISIONS. Now I meditate and contemplate and listen to the spirit for direction...but I have learned that the more consistently you "trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways and acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path." Decisions are easier and clearer. There is freedom and stress relief in turning to the Lord for guidance.

I know I never write this much but I have been feeling like I need to share with so many of you whom I love...my thoughts and my testimony.

Happy Holly-Days!

2009-12-09T11:43:00.000-08:00

Gwen Hawkins Photography

"Avoid the Maul"

2009-11-27T08:37:00.000-08:00

The Pier 1 sale is available for 3-days!Click on Laugh to learn about winning a trip to Disneyland! I want someone I know to win! So Everyone enter!

Click on Love to see our "Black Friday Ad" that lasts 3-days! (The Love and Laugh wall art is on sale for $4.99!)
Also check out clearance and other sale items!

Funeral Arrangements

2009-11-10T21:23:00.000-08:00

The Memorial Service for Nicholas David George will be Thursday November, 12th 2009 at 10 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ, located at 220 N Peach Ave, Clovis, CA 93612.

The Graveside Service will be Thursday November, 12th 2009 at 2 p.m.in Oakhurst, CA

Message about Nicholas

2009-11-06T23:59:00.000-08:00

Thank you all for your love and prayers. Those words seem inadequate, but are sincere. I feel so much love and peace. Thank you.

I know there will be so many questions, and I am sorry if some go unanswered. Nicholas was struggling with addictions. He has been in a downward spiral and sadly ended in his death. I will keep you informed of funeral arrangements, but right now we are waiting for a few things.

I want to share some things I know. There is freedom in forgiveness. The Lord knows us all and is mindful of our individual needs. We are never alone. The Atonement is such a blessing to us all. There is limitless love and mercy from our Savior Jesus Christ and our Father in Heaven.

I love you all and thank you again,

Holly

White & Dynamite

2009-11-01T08:41:00.000-08:00

Talking Charlotte

2009-10-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

Charlotte and her talking...she has a scratch from being the crazy girl she is and I have a bandage because I had a mole removed today :-) She was fascinated with her nose while watching herself. I will have to catch her saying "talk to you later" because that is my favorite thing she says!

Fives Tag

2009-10-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

I haven't been tagged since I first started blogging...its been over a year! So no complaining!

5 Things I Don’t Leave the House Without
1. Keys
2. wallet
3. cell phone
4. whistle
5. blanket and pacifier

5 Cartoons I Watched When I was Younger
1. Road Runner
2. Smurfs
3. Doug
4. Rocko's Modern Life
5. Animaniacs

5 Things that Terrify Me
1. Stress dreams about work where I am buried in ornaments!
2. HUGE 6- FOOT STING RAYS Swimming all around me!
3. Dreams where you are punching the bad guy and have no strength or voice to scream!
4. Car Accidents
5. Something awful happening to me or Charlotte

5 Things I Hate/Dislike that Everyone Else Seems to Like
1. i-PHONES!
2. Cold Shrimp
3. Shopping
4. Running
5. Scary Movies

5 Things I Want to Do Before I Die
1. Visit as many temples as possible
2. See all the places and art I studied in school
3. Design my own home
4. Be on as many games shows as possible
5. Referee Water Polo in the Olympics

5 Friends/Family I’ll Tag
1. Crystal G-U. (LOL!!!)
2. Krystal O.
3. Kiki C.
4. Hillary W.
5. Megan S.

Yay for October!

2009-10-11T22:24:00.001-07:00

HALF DOME!!!

2009-10-05T22:29:00.000-07:00

Who's up for Mt. Whitney with me next? It is on the bottom of the sign... 211 miles = only a few days of walking... ;-) Let's Go!

So this was a totally spontaneous trip! My cousin John Tree has been installing alarm systems all summer and was here in Visalia for a bit. One of his friends he worked with, Blair, wanted to do Half Dome. So they came to stay with us before they went up a couple of weeks ago but, they were not prepared to leave early enough to do it in one day. So they just stayed for a visit and decided to forego the hike. 3 weeks later when Blair was installing my parent's alarm system, we did some research and realized they take the cables down this coming Columbus day weekend. I had been wanting to go ever since they had come last time and decided it was now or waiting until next summer. So I said "I'll Go!" We all got set and cleared saturday to go! I was pumped! I barely slept I was so excited.

John, sadly didn't make as far as we would have liked and went back down early.

Blair and I were determined to finish and we DID!

I made people nervous with how close to the edges I went.

This is the view on the way down the cables! So steep and so fun!

The guy in from of me was from England. It was amazing how many people were from all around the world!
I did it and I am so proud of myself! I am even recovering way better than I thought I would. We left the car at 6:30am and returned by 6:30pm! It was amazing! One of the best days I have had in a long time! I had a smile on my face all day!

We had fun making these videos! Enjoy!

Great Friends!

2009-10-02T08:19:00.001-07:00

I am so thankful for my great friends the Christophersons! (and not only because they babysit and feed me) They are amazing friends! Supportive, Loving and they make me laugh. Check out her blog from yesterday!

Kristen is an amazing mommy and was such a huge help when Charlotte was first born! I am so glad to have their family in my life and allow me to be part of it!

Kristen and Charlotte when she was 5 weeks old!

Potty Practice

2009-09-16T18:21:00.000-07:00

Very embarrassing photos for when Charlotte is older :-D

Too funny not to share!

The Cast is Off!!!

2009-09-11T14:31:00.000-07:00

I know this is so super late...but here are the cute before and after pics of Charly's Cast and little arm.

This was a water proof cast and I was able to unwrap it myself. So awesome!

Disney World: Playing in the Park

2009-09-11T08:25:00.000-07:00

Well, Charlotte's cast did not keep her from doing anything and everything. Plenty of climbing and exploring everywhere we went.

Stairs were her favorite attraction at all the parks. Up and Down. Up and Down.

Until she was tired and stopped to smile :-D

She did great with showing me a toy, saying "Want it." and I would say "Give it kisses and put it back." She would and would then walk away happy. Soon I didn't have to tell her anymore, she walked around stores kissing toys and putting them back. They were the cheapest souvenirs ever.

The girls are running around in Spain in Epcot Park. They did so well together.

This was a really cool aquarium you could walk through after the Nemo ride in Epcot.

Winnie the Pooh Playground in Magic Kingdom Park. Charlotte would climb up the stairs and stand there and push the boys out of the way.

This fountain entertained the girls for 15-20 minutes. It was in America in Epcot.

Disney World: Playing at The Resort

2009-09-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

Playing with the phone was a daily occurrence. I had to unplug it because there was a quick button on it to call the Fire Department. She called them once and then it stayed unplugged.

Gotta love the bed head.

Some great smiles don't you think? Check out the videos at the end.

Swimming swimming swimming! They loved swimming, it was so hot and the water was perfect, so they never wanted to leave. They had this great step all around the pool that made it so easy for them to swim to it and climb up by themselves. Elle and Charlotte are such great swimmers.

She may not look happy but she asked to go down the slide a few times. I think she knew it was supposed to be fun but she was weary.

Teagan is such a water baby! Happy Happy!

Sweet Cousins

The resort had these high chairs for us and they also had pack-n-plays! So nice!

Fall at Pier 1

2009-08-31T11:33:00.000-07:00

Wel I have strep throat and was forced to take 2 days off of work. I am sad because I am still loving it at pier 1, and as much work as it takes to transform our store for the new season...it is beautiful! I am loving all the new candle scents and furniture. Check it out here.

Disney World: Characters

2009-08-17T16:21:00.001-07:00

Above is one of the many times we waited in line to meet the fairies and prinesses. Snacks and sillyness keep them occupied.

DW: Traveling

2009-08-17T15:25:00.000-07:00

Well we survived the puddle jumper from Fresno to LA for 50 minutes no problem on the way there, it was 6 AM and the girls were very out of it, Charlotte fell asleep on the descent.

Here the Girls are playing while waiting for our connection in LA.

A good before shot of her cast...before all the Characters signed it (I will do a post on that)

We came prepared with multiples of every toy because they all want what eachother have. (You can see Teagan's little arm pullin on Charlotte)

This book uses water to color the pages and kept Elle busy for 3 of the 5 hours.

My pictures of Charlotte sleeping got deleted. She slept THREE hours on the way to Orlando! The biggest blessing came when the seat next to me was empty on a flight that was over booked! I was also blesses with the same thing on the return flight!

Here is Elle sleeping on the way back to LA.

Teagan and Crystal snuggling and snoozing.

And this worked for about an hour on the way back to LA. She slept 2 hours. And read books and tried to escape down the eisle the rest of the 2 hours.

But we survived and were glad to be returning home to a place with significantly less humidity!

Charlotte slept the whole time on the way from LA to Fresno. All in all she made it easy enough to not traumatize me out of flying with her.

Flash Back

2009-07-28T13:22:00.000-07:00

All bias aside, she really was/is the cutest baby!!! I miss this stage :-(

Another Trip to Children's

2009-07-24T15:45:00.000-07:00

Well, she was outside in the backyard playing with Kadie (our dog) and she tripped over the little wheel on my dad's wheel chair and fell on the metal threshold and apparently her wrist broke her fall. My doctor sent me to the ER because they closed early on Friday and Children's put this soft cast on her until Monday when they can put a real one on.

She has broken her wrist, but after her nap she woke up normal and happy!
(Sorry it is sideways)

Climber and a Kisser

2009-07-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

Charlotte is climbing constantly and seems to believe if she doesn't look at us while we tell her "No" she doesn't have to stop. She is so funny and full of love...enjoy her kisses!

Activites at Camp 2009

2009-07-18T09:35:00.002-07:00

Well here are some more girls camp pictures for your viewing pleasure. If you could't tell I was over Activites and Crafts which we provided:
Crafts-Washer Necklaces, Fish hook bracelets, Hemp bracelets, Sharpie Tie-Die, Emroidery Floss Hair Wraps, and the ever so popular SPIN ART!
Activites-Zip line, repelling, archery, badminton, basketball, and Zoomba classes!!
All camp activity: Human Knot, Stocking theif, Mellow flight, Cheese ball toss, Find and eat gummy worms in a pie, Water sponge relay, Milk Jug Trivia and the Bonus round of Cricket Sundaes!
SPUNITY!!!=spirit+unity - through out the week girls were given rubber bands for participating with a smile or involving girls or cleaning happily - they were counted at dinner every night in exchange for charms to go on their Tiki Torch...the charms contributed to their points during the all camp activity.
All very FUN FUN FUN!!!

YW Camp Activites 2009

2009-07-18T09:35:00.001-07:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

How to make a Spin Art Machine

2009-07-18T08:50:00.000-07:00

I felt like this after completing this project!

Here is the first shirt I made.

A cute little one running around making a mess while you work will keep your spirits up.

Buy or use a box fan you have already.

Remove the grates.
Saw off the blades
Drill holes then screw on "L" brackets

measure the radius of the circle on the fan and draw a circle on the 1/4" MDF board

Center the Circles over eachother and screw it down through the small 1'x1' square and the large Circle.

IMPORTANT NOTE: the circle can not extend larger than the box fan-center of gravity must remain inside the peramiters of the box.

Use cardboard and cut 8" high strips to create a paint barrier. Duck (duct) tape worked best to secure the shirt to the circle...BUT fold the shirt with desired area centered (chest, side, back) and use masking tape to secure the folds on the back. (I tried all kinds of clamps-C,butterfly,clothes pins ect.--they fly off)

Turn fan on highest speed and squirt paint while spinning. If specific design is desired (star, peace, heart ect), squirt on first and then spin -try to center design.

And HOORAY a unique masterpiece! The girls at camp loved it and a lot of them got so creative!

Another day another dollar

2009-07-14T18:56:00.000-07:00

This is one of our new chairs we wll be getting at Pier 1 and I was in charge of rearranging all the upholstery today because....I am the new SALES LEADER!!!

HIP HIP HOORAY!

A raise and almost double the hours = more $$money honey$$

I also finally replaced my totalled focus with this gorgeous hunk of a car I have been dreaming of for years! I did it all by my self and got such a deal the owner of the dealership offered me a job...he said: "If you can sell me on this price you can sell anything."

2003 SATURN VUE
$6,700 out the door!!! Blue Book was $10,000!!!
Now who do I have to flirt with to purchase the home in this picture? ;-D

6 Girls + Timeshare = DISNEYWORLD FUN!

2009-07-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

I AM GETTING VERY EXCITED!!!!!!

I also can not wait until Monday to find out if I got the position of Sales Leader at Pier 1...I interviewed and now have to wait...FYI: You can join Pier 1 on Facebook!

YW Camp 2009

2009-06-24T09:40:00.000-07:00

There is camp from the top of the rock.

The amazing view.

We conquered the rock with little to no trail on it...it is mainly rock climbing.

As you can see here...no trail...just rock climbing.

It was so great! All the girls were amazing!

Singing camp songs on the way up was great!

This was the first day with all our camp shirts on singing the new MILK song!

More Precious than Rubies!

Pier 1 Update

2009-06-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

It really is an amazing sale! I had to tag everything and it was ALOT!

Gage Grandkids

2009-06-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

Left to Right/ Back to Front: Luke Draper, Rebecca Wisor, Anna & Renee, Kristi Pascoe, Abby Draper, Julia Coranado, Elizabeth Pollock, Crystal Gage, Beau Smart, Leah Draper, Benjamin Phillips, and Holly George.

CSUF Graduation 2009

2009-05-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

Oh, Happy Day!

School Update

2009-04-29T23:50:00.000-07:00

Here is some of my work.

This was a tenant improvement project for an actual existing facility called West Care. Above is my proposed design the area of remodel. Below is a rendering of The Director's Office and an ADA Sleeping Unit.

These two are for a fictional project we were able to chose the location...I chose Bellingham/Seattle Washington. Above is the Interior Design office located on the 2nd floor. The top two floors (3rd/4th) are apartments. Below is a rendering of the 2 bedroom 2 bath. Oh, and if you were wondering the entire 2nd floor is offices (Pediatrician, Counselor, ID and Lawyer) and the 1st floor is Public (retail, market, cafe, restaurant). The 3rd floor has a fitness center for tenants and the 4th floor has an atrium.

I love my major!

P 1

2009-04-29T23:11:00.000-07:00

This is Post #100 and I am excited it is bringing the information to you all that I am working at Pier 1 Imports!

So far I love it! I get to shop with people all day, spend their money and go home with a paycheck. It is experience that will benefit me in a time that no one is hiring entry level Interior Designers. It is great part-time scheduling and working out great with school and Charlotte.

Speaking (or writing) about Charlotte, she is starting to have tantrum-bullying-screaming-hitting-throwing moments. Where do they learn this stuff? She used to go to the door and say "Aow-eyed?"--now she smacks the door and SCREAMS. What the heck? When I pick her up when she is doing something naughty, she tells me "NO" and smacks me in the face. Ummm, NO BODY has ever hit me (except for water polo players and viscous JT swimmers...the pool is a dangerous place I guess). Who taught her that??? What do I do? When will time-out be effective?

1 year Blog-Anniversary

2009-04-12T08:05:00.000-07:00

http://hngeorge.blogspot.com/2008/04/now-we-are-three.html

" I can not beleive it! "

( In the voice of TJ from little Einsteins)

I have been blogging for 1 year!

My biggest disbelief is how much Charlotte has grown.

She has gone from just finding her hands, to putting them to productive use!

Drinking through a Straw

2009-04-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

The other day Holly was letting Charlotte chew on her straw (which is what Charlotte usually does); the next thing we knew she took a big ol' drink!! Now she's a Pro. One more skill in Charlotte's repertoire : )

Piano Duet

2009-04-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

Elle and Charlotte are very fun to watch as they interact. Charlotte is social and affectionate (notice how she touches Elle's arm), while Elle is very indpendent and likes her boundries to be respected (notice the look she gives Charlotte after she touches her arm) . But, my favorite part of the video is Elle's cross-over finish.

Spoons and Playtime

2009-04-04T20:51:00.000-07:00

Charlotte is improving on feeding herself. Usually she likes to act like she's feeding herself while I feed her with another spoon.

Charlotte Loves to go outside and pull all the flowers off the plants and eat the buds shaped like a ball.

I have put her to work of course, I might need a smaller broom for our lessons to be effective ;-)

I love that she always shuts the door behind her...something she got from me and NOT her father. But, I have heard that a lot of spouses leave doors and cupboards open.

Doin' a dance.

Pondering something serious.

Being sneeky.

Such a big girl!

Graduation Pictures

2009-04-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

I am not purchasing any of these. I was not happy with them, I am going to have our friend Rachel Boyer take some when we take the girl's Easter pictures. But, even though the sash thing the had me wear is wrinkly I thought I would share...I am getting so excited for graduation! Can you tell?

Team DJ

2009-04-02T12:53:00.000-07:00

Our Charly Girl

2009-03-19T07:32:00.000-07:00

It's been warm and Charlotte asks to go outside whenever she sees the door. Above she had fun making a mess in the bubbles. Below she is digging in the dirt with sidewalk chalk...that's what its for, didn't you know?

She loves to talk on Uncle Benson's old cell phone, she says "Hi! Jiber jabber jibber"

She likes to lounge and talk on the phone, what girl doesn't?

Here is her new car seat. She is such a big girl!

These were her first pig tails! So cute!

Everything must be put on her head.

She must climb in to every nook and cranny.

So sneeky :-D

But she is our sweet Charly Girl!

Another new blogger

2009-03-12T12:26:00.000-07:00

Nicholas wanted his own blog because mine was too girly...I told him we could change it but he still wanted his own. I told him he needs to blog on our family one too and he said he would. So, enjoy the very eccentric, honest and interesting Nicholas.

In to the Nicholas

I'm a Big Girl Now

2009-03-10T20:03:00.000-07:00

We were required to create a business card and brochure with our resume info, for our senior show. I am so close to finished with everything. I still need to print, cut, paste, paint, mount, install and shop for a new outfit! I will start taking pictures of my progress now that I am not just sitting in front of a computer. Here is one of my perspectives, I do not know why it would not upload right side up. But, I hope this shows off my work a bit.

You are invited

2009-03-03T09:58:00.000-08:00

Grandma George

2009-02-23T08:36:00.000-08:00

We love you and we will miss you!

Our Baby Model

2009-02-14T13:18:00.001-08:00

We love Kangaroodle, a website with so many cute things.
It is owned and operated my Nona Angie's cousin Shelly.

She also owns a store in Bellingham, WA, called Bellingham Baby Co.

Charlotte is now featured on their main page! Check it out!

Sleep Sleep Sleep

2009-02-11T08:44:00.000-08:00

So I have to be honest and say that Charlotte has not slept longer that a 6 hour stretch since she was 6 months and started teething. For the past few months she has been waking up every hour to two hours. And what would I do to put her to sleep? I would nurse her and even though I knew she shouldn't be nursing at night, I thought it was easier for me to just feed her and then go back to sleep. But, man, I got sick of getting up every hour to two hours.

So I asked the advice of many mothers at church and in my family and remembered what I have read and what my doctor said...she needs to learn to put herself to sleep. So it was suggested to let her cry and go in every 10 minutes then every 15 minutes then every 20 minutes and so on...

Now, I am the JAN THOMAS SWIM SCHOOL TEACHER!!! I should be able to do this. But it is crazy different with your own, but I do know that she would survive crying and learn what she needed to learn. Charlotte lays down for bed and naps EASY! But, it was her waking up at night (which we all do multiple times, but we know how to go back to sleep) and thinking she needed me to go back to sleep.

So, Sunday night I decided it was time. I laid her down at 8:40pm and I did not nurse her to sleep this time, I nursed her then brushed her teeth, put on pjs, said goodnight to dad, said prayers and then I put her in her crib. One hour later she woke and Nicholas went in and rocked her back to sleep without me knowing! He came out and I asked him if her picked her up and he admitted he did, "Don't break the rules!" I said and he agreed.
11:15pm she started crying, and I stuck to every 10 minutes I would go in lay her down, tuck her in, tell her "I love you" rub her belly and bum and try to soother her a bit, then walk out and shut the door. THIS WAS SO HARD...at first! I was staring at my clock.
(which looks like this)

So, to distract myself I did laundry! (the laundry room below is beautiful-not mine-but ideal) She cried for 2 hours. 1:15am there was finally silence.

But, after hearing her scream for 2 hours I kept thinking I was hearing her cry. So I had the monitor turned down (no need for volume when she is screaming) and the red lights would come on if she was crying, so whenever I thought she was crying I would look for red lights and when there were none I knew I was imagining it. It was quite annoying to wake up to non-existent crying.
(those are my exact monitors)

But then 3:00am she started again and cried for 20 minutes (not screaming like the previous session), once she quieted down I waited 20 minutes before going in to check and see if she had a blanket and she stirred and cried again for 30 minutes. So Monday night I put her in her "Back to Sleep Sack" so I knew she would not get cold and I would not have to check again.

Well, here is how it went.
Sunday night : 11-1 (2 hours) 3-4 (1 hour) 6am for 15 minutes
Monday night : 3-4 (1 hour) 6am for 15 minutes
Tuesday night: 6am for 15 minutes

I have every hope that tonight will be straight through the night from 8:30pm-7:30am. She is also waking up HAPPY like she used to 6 months ago!
Hooray for sleep!!!

Disneyland Birthday Trip

2009-02-04T10:20:00.001-08:00

It was a double birthday trip! Nicholas turned 29 on 1/30/09 and Charlotte turned 1 on 2/2/09. Nicholas got his free ticket and we used his birthday and christmas money to buy my ticket.

We love it DISNEYLAND and miss our annual passes. But we probabaly won't be going again for a while now that Charlotte is growing into a toddler and not so willing to sit in her stroller or be held. But isn't she so cute?

She absolutely loves her minnie mouse...I had to buy it for her as a birthday present and now she sleeps with it and carries it everywhere.

Charlotte LOVES music. It will catch her ear whether it is far away or in the background on TV. She is like her dad in that music is the first thing they notice where ever they are. She loved the TIKI ROOM! She would walk up by the fountain in the center and dance dance dance! People were clapping for her and she loved the attention. One woman said she was so much fun to watch that it made the show way more entertaining.

Charlotte's 1st Birthday

2009-02-03T13:31:00.000-08:00

We had lasagna, pizza, salad and lemonade.
Charlotte enjoyed her lasagna!

Of course we had cake too!

Charlotte was hesitant at first then dug right in to her first birthday cake!

Charlotte is defiantely a social party girl. She loved have so many cousins and friends to play with and give her all their attention. She had so much fun and slept very well that night! She loves all her gifts and is very grateful!

Beautiful Bellingham 2

2009-02-03T11:34:00.000-08:00

Urien Family BLOG!!!!

2009-01-22T15:25:00.000-08:00

HOORAY!!!

They have joined the blogging community!!!

Visit them by clicking their names below :-D

Crystal and Kevin

Elle and Teagan

4 Years and an eternity to go...

2008-12-30T21:31:00.000-08:00

I must say that it has been a crazy ride like white water rafting...all different parts of the river have been unique. Some times the river is so smooth you forget to paddle and relax, some times you have to work harder than you ever thought you could to get to where your going. Some times you have to do what your guide is telling you even though you don't understand why, but you trust them. Some times it is so much fun you shout for joy. Looking back you remember both the hard and hurt along with the fun and happy. It is a difficult trip but optimism, faith and hard work make it in to the trip of a lifetime.

I love Nicholas so much and I know he loves me (with out a doubt...who doesn't...just kidding ;-) We would not have lasted this long with out that love.

Standing Video

2008-12-27T21:32:00.000-08:00

She has been standing fro a few months now. She just stands up in the middle of the room unassisted. I am so excited to report that she took her first step on Christmas day!!! Friday she pivoted with 2 steps and Saturday she took 4 steps!
No video of that yet...and crawling videos to be uploaded.

FOR SALE

2008-12-27T15:19:00.000-08:00

$400

$200

$300

$500

$300

$350

So if you know anyone who is interested...let me know! They are on Craig's list.

DISNEYLAND!!!

2008-12-18T09:15:00.000-08:00

Charlotte loved Disneyland! It was inevitable really. The only parts she didn't like was waiting in lines with limited view of the world around her and the gaps in the parade when I wouldn't let her crawl in to the street. She was such a great happy baby! She usually is. The only things that went wrong the whole trip:

that both my mom and I forgot the battery charger for our cameras and both cameras died. So we have limited pictures :-(
I took my lanyard off, the one you see in all the pictures, so I could nurse Charlotte and left it on the bench near main street. Very sad. :-((

But, Charlotte's favorite pastime the whole trip was hands down...her reflection at the hotel.

oNe hUndrEd thINgs

2008-12-08T08:53:00.000-08:00

You have to copy the list and highlight the ones that are true about you!!
(I made all the ones I've done big instead of highlighting them...)

1. Started your own blog

2. Slept under the stars

3. Played in a band

4. Visited Hawaii

5. Watched a meteor shower

6. Given more than you can afford to charity

7. Been to Disneyland

8. Climbed a mountain

9. Held a Praying Mantis

10. Sang a solo

11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris

13. Watched a lightning storm at sea

14. Taught yourself an art from scratch

15. Adopted a child

16. Had food poisoning

17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty

18. Grown your own vegetables

19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France
20. Slept on an overnight train

21.Had a pillow fight

22. Hitch hiked

23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill

24. Built a snow fort

25. Held a lamb

26. Gone skinny dipping

27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice

29. Seen a total eclipse

30. Watched a sunrise or sunset

31. Hit a home run

32. Been on a cruise

33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors

35. Seen an Amish community

36. Taught yourself a new language

37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied

38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person

39. Gone rock climbing

40. Seen Michelangelo’s David

41. Sung karaoke

42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt

43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant

44. Visited Africa

45. Walked on a beach by moonlight

46. Been transported in an ambulance

47. Had your portrait painted

48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling

52. Kissed in the rain

53. Played in the mud

54. Gone to a drive-in theater

55. Been in a movie

56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies

62. Gone whale watching

63. Got flowers for no reason

64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma

65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp
67. Bounced a check

68. Flown in a helicopter

69. Saved a favorite childhood toy

70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial

71. Eaten Caviar

72. Pieced a quilt

73. Stood in Times Square

74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London

77. Broken a bone

78. Been on a speeding motorcycle

79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person

80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem

84. Had your picture in the newspaper

85. Read the entire Bible

86. Visited the White House

87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating

88. Had chickenpox

89. Saved someone’s life ( I like to think so with all the CPR I've taught)

90. Sat on a jury

91. Met someone famous

92. Joined a book club

93. Lost a loved one

94. Had a baby

95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit

98. Owned a cell phone

99. Been stung by a bee

100. Talked your way out of a ticket

Next on my list to do is :11,12,19,27,33,34,38,40,44,50,56,65,76,96

Cousin Pictures :-D

2008-11-19T13:30:00.000-08:00

Why is Grandma doing jumping jacks and singing?

My mom is so silly!

I'm cute and I have 2 teeth!
(her top 2 just came in 2 nights ago-oh yes it was fun! screaming all night is always fun!)

Whooo took my pacifier?

All these crazy adults? Which one to look at?

I guess Charlotte would rather look at the ceiling.

Sweet Teagan!

What? I'm just tasting. Is anybody watching?

See I am an angel!

Swimming and Day Care

2008-11-07T20:54:00.000-08:00

Today was the first time I had someone other than family watch Charlotte. (Yes Aaron and Kiki, I consider you family...but you knew that already) Well, I investigated the day care at out gym and felt okay about it. I really liked the idea of them being able to bring her to me if anything happened or if she was upset. I was just in the pool 50ft away. I also talked to a friend of ours that occasionally takes her daughter there and she said it was fine. Well, still slightly weary Nicholas and I took her in there today. I asked Nicholas to hold her while I signed her in, and the lady that works there reached for Charlotte and Charly went right to her. This was very unusual since just in the last week Charlotte has been uneasy with strangers. Charly has also been getting upset when I leave. Did she even whine or whimper as I walked away and waved goodbye? No. Did she get super excited when I came to get her like she was waiting for me? No. She was so comfortable there. In conclusion, for $2 Nicholas and I can go swim and do not have to worry about driving Charlotte some where and then picking her up, thus resulting in way more time taken out of our day. Thank you GB3 for thinking about parents and helping our lives be convenient.

...and the votes are in!

2008-11-05T10:07:00.000-08:00

Click on the "Proposition Results" link in my "Check it out" section on the left. It shows the voting results in each county and is really fun to switch through each proposition/presidential race and see how California voted. It is updated regularly as counties are reporting. CHECK IT OUT!

NINE MONTHS

2008-11-03T20:52:00.000-08:00

Well, nine months went by a lot slower while I was pregnant. I can't believe how close the little baby on my ticker is to that 1. Its madness how fast time flies! At her 9 month check up the doctor said she is looking wonderful and that we are doing great! Hooray! I have fooled her...just kidding :-D

19 lbs 10 oz and 28 1/4 inches long (one of you got it right on the poll) as for the other two votes...I too thought for sure she was over 20 lbs!!!
She will crawl but prefers to scream until you give her what she wants
Pulls up on everything
Walks along the couch
Walks while holding my hands
Stands alone
Feeds herself and sometimes uses her index and middle finger like chop sticks to pick things up.
Holds her own nuby sippy cup
Has expanded her vocabulary extensively to; mom mom mom, da da da, ba ba ba, smack smack smack, click click click, oo oo, ah ah (for reals, I think she is a monkey when she says oo oo oo, or ah ah AH) and plenty of sqwacking squealing and screaming. AND she will say bye bye bye bye. By far my favorite is when she whispers...I love it! It is the most adorable thing in the world to me. She will whisper when she wakes up. I finally pin pointed that it reminded me of parcel tongue from Harry Potter. Its real sneaky and airy whisper.
She waved for the first time at the doctors office for her 9 month appt...everyone was waving at her so of course she did it back.
Playing fetch with mom and dad is fun to throw something off the couch or chair then lean over and look at it...then look at us and then...back at it...then squeal-AH! She does have magical power because it always ends up back in front of her.
Her new favorite thing to do is swing! She always reaches back for the swing when I take her out. She LOVES it!

Of course she loves to dump everything out and make messes now.
She is such a good girl! (despite the messes) I love this video of her waiting to see the doctor...we only had to get her flu shot...which was nothing compared to last time and 6 shots.

I miss Krystal Club

2008-11-02T21:51:00.001-08:00

I was tagged...this only one word thing was hard...i like adjectives!

1. Where is your cell phone? ......charger
2. Where is your significant other? .....zonked
3. Your hair color? .....brown
4. Your mother? .....amazing
5. Your father? .....intelligent
6. Your favorite thing? .....food
7. Your dream last night? .....dreams?
8. Your dream/goal? .....house
9. The room you're in? .....bedroom
10. Your hobby? .....water
11. Your fear? .....vulnerability
12. Where do you want to be in 6 years? .....mom x3
13. Where were you last night? .....mom's
14. What you're not? .....weak
15. One of your wish-list items? .....teach
16. Where you grew up? .....FRESNO!
17. The last thing you ate? .....jello
18. What are you wearing?..... margets ;-D
19. Your tv? .....garage
20. Your pet? .....wish
21. Your computer? .....macy
22. Your mood? .....pooped
23. Missing someone? .....KRYSTAL
24. Your car? .....white
25. Something you're not wearing? .....make-up
26. Favorite store? ......target
27. Your summer? .....busy
28. Love someone? .....Charlotte
29. Your favorite color? .....indigo
30. When was the last time you laughed? .....movie
31. Last time you cried? .....weeks

I award the following people the " I love your blog award". And in doing so, tag them to complete the above questions with ONE WORD ANSWERS: Ashley DeWitt and Hillary Williams

BOO!

2008-10-31T21:31:00.000-07:00

Well, we weren't really scary at all...but we had fun dressing up. Charlotte's costume was $5 dollars at babies-r-us for Halloween closeout :-D She was so comfortable in it...she fell asleep twice as we drove around to show her off. It was lots of fun!

We also ran into "Marriage is between a man and a woman 'Yes on 8'couple" and some princesses.
Josh and Jonet Barlocker

Lindsay, Brooke, Shantay and Brinley

Tithing Blessings!

2008-10-27T11:49:00.001-07:00

My sister-in-law Joelle calls things that happen or free stuff you've desperately needed but were lacking the funds TITHING BLESSINGS. Basically blessings resulting from paying a 10% tithe to the Lord and His Church. Well I just had 2 in 2 weeks!

First: I have been wanting an excer-saucer activity center for Charly. She LOVES the one at my mom's and christopherson's. Well my neice has a little girl 1 month older than Charlotte and she was given 2 excer-saucers! Well Ryan & Joelle were wonderful enough to drive it back to clovis from riverside for us. Such a blessing for Charly and for us. Sometimes she just wants to stand and jump...which requires us to hold her. Well now I can stick her in and carry on with homework and housework.

Second: We used to have a commercial/business vehicle insurance because Nicholas commuted to Nor-Cal for work. Now that he is finally done teaching CPR and is getting a real job...I have switched the Focus on to my Progressive Policy.

Explorer ICW Monthly Premium (Focus only) - $284.94
Progressive Mothly Premium (Escort only) - $60.50
Total Previous Monthly Insurance : $ 345.44

NEW Progressive Monthly Premium
Escort and Focus - $216.66
Savings of $128.78

Linguistics Exam #1

2008-10-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

The hardest test EVER!!!

Topic #1 - 46
Topic #2 - 48

94/100

Hooray!

Tribute to San Francisco

2008-10-20T20:37:00.000-07:00

We have traveled to San Francisco at least 10-15 times a year...and have been tour guides many times. I have not been in a while and I miss it a bit. We wanted to live there for a summer, before we had Charlotte. Troy rented a flat from a student that went home for the summer. He loved it. He also did the same thing in Berkley the summer before that. The city has a lot to offer, we just don't want to raise a family there.

Prop 8 Post

2008-10-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

Smashed finger update:

2008-10-17T10:57:00.000-07:00

I have xray pics I will eventually share but I have yet to get my pictures off my new phone ...it won't sync my pictures for some reason. But, I was going to have surgery this last monday but due to my amazing self inflicted physical therapy I have shown good mobility in my finger and the doc believes it will heal fully functioning but will be slightly crooked. He will do the surgery if I want, but - remember the no insurance thing...well, I will save $5000 and deal with a working finger that is a little bent. I was never planning on being a hand model anyway, and as Kiki pointed out to me...my hand will forever be preserved because I already took pictures with my wedding ring and ring finger. OH, I forgot! I never told you all that Saturday night Oct 4th at 11pm I had my wedding ring cut off because my finger was swelling up around it. Crystal had a friend of a friend come out of the ER and cut it off for me. This guy (who will remained unnamed just in case he could get busted) literally saved my finger!
My poor wedding ring. I have high hopes for Fresno Jewlry Mart to fix my ring. It is after all Nicholas' Grandma's Ring. It will be fixed. I am determined.

My bruised finger. See it's just a little angled toward the pinky.

The concern was whether or not it would overlap my pinky too much. It does a little but he said it should not hinder my grip.

See...not too bad at all! Do you like my tan line from my splint?

Curious Charlotte

2008-10-17T10:29:00.000-07:00

Remember back when I said Charlotte needs to hurry up and get mobile so Nicholas would protect his things by putting them in the garage. Well, the light is beginning to shine through and he has put one turntable on craig's list and one palm pilot up on ebay! Hooray for progression!

"Take 2 down, pass them around,
98 things left to chuck out as junk!"

(just to explain background noise: Charlotte was watching Winnie-the-Pooh and Nicholas was in the Shower)

Beautiful Babies

2008-10-15T13:22:00.000-07:00

While we were down in SoCal for Nicholas' Aunt Julie's Memorial, we visited one of his friends from high school. She had a sweet baby girl 1 month younger than Charlotte name Ariella. It is amazing that Charlotte used to sit still like that a few months ago. Now she is a wiggle worm.

Broken Finger!

2008-10-04T18:06:00.000-07:00

I don't feel like undoing the bandage right now, but Charlotte is taking a nap so I have time to write. I will take another picture of the smashed finger later.
So, to begin...I took the HARDEST test I have ever taken...EVER...this morning. It is an online linguistics class and she made us take our exam on campus...on a SATURDAY morning! I am the second to last person to finish our 500 word essay exam and feel pretty good about my work (wrote over 600 words FYI). I open the door to leave and it shuts really fast and I put my hand up to catch it and my hand slid into the door jamb and SMASHED my ring finger. It looked FLAT. HOLY COW PAIN!!! Hypno-birthing techniques...out the window...it HURT! My teacher and the other guy in the room froze. That's right...I had to be the logical one and tell them who to call and what to do. LAME I KNOW. My mom came and got me and Nicholas met me there. Well, I iced it and due to our Medi-cal being canceled because of my winnings on Wheel of Fortune...we have no insurance. Luckily Fresno State has a health center that can x-ray and fix my fingure...I just have to wait until monday.

Positives:

It is my left hand.
my sister had vicodin from her postpartum.
I was able to finish my test and felt good about it.

Negatives:

It happened aftet the hardest test if my life...not before.
I missed my water polo games I was supposed to ref today.
It HURTS!

Symptoms

I can not straighten it all the way.
I can not bend the little knuckle at all.
Its swollen.
There are two huge dents where the skin is bruised and broken.
IT HURTS!

I will survive. Thank Goodness for Conference Weekend and I don't have to do singing time tomorrow.

Double Over-Time

2008-10-01T21:59:00.000-07:00

I missed my night class last night becaus both game I officiated at went in to over time. The boys even went in to sudden victory (AKA sudden death). It was very hot and the schools usually have water for us but they didn't yesterday. But I survived and live to tell the tale.
I have never had so many parents yell at me. I will tell you one major lesson I have learned, is to not listen to the crowd. They can yell at me all they want these days (I used to turn around and give warnings or threaten to have them escorted away) I just keep on blowing my whistle when I see fit. But the other referee put it perfectly when he said "You can't say either team didn't have a chance to win. They had their chance for 7 periods!"

This goalie below is my hero. Try scoring on that wing span!

This my dear readers is a foul! It is reaching over the offense and taking away their advantage. If this took place with in 5 meters of the Cage (goal), it would be a Penalty foul-which results in a one-on-one free shot against the goalie on the 5M line.

But this, this is just a part of the game. Can I blow my whistle for this? No. Sorry, I can't see this. If that player, that is getting a readjustment to his speedo, was trying to progress the game (such as swim to receive or give a pass, or shoot) and I could see he was being held from doing so, then I can call a foul.
I hope you enjoyed a small glimpse into the wonderful world of water polo.

Coming Clean

2008-09-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

The knot in my stomach knew it as I read Rebecca's blog...and it was right...she tagged me.

The rules are to grab your camera and take pictures of the following with NO CLEANING UP!

1- Kitchen Sink
This is Nicholas' area and he is obviously behind.

2- Toliet
Not too bad eh? (Also Nicholas' responsibility)

3- Laundry "Room"
I don't have a landry room really, it is a closet on my balcony.

4- Fridge
I know you love the JT swim school pics and how nicely I framed them ;-D

5- Your kids right now
She is sleeping and this is an old pic of her sleeping - before she woke up when I even thought about touching her doorknob...no way was I going to chance it.

6- Favorite Shoes
I wear them almost everyday and almost everywhere. (I know your all jealous of my lovely sea foam barf green carpet in our apartments-our unit is the only one that has it. It was the trial run and they didn't like it. but did they replace it...no. Oh and you can see glimpses of our green and white checkered composition tile in the kitchen and bathroom. Lovely.)

7- Favorite Room
There is my painting, free couch, my Macy (my mac laptop is named Macy), cell phone and monitor for sleeping Charlotte.

This is the other side of the room that is not so much my favorite. More like my stress headache daily. I am trying to get him to sell some of this stuff. Too much STUFF! Oh and Charly's play spot where she sits (still not mobile...i wish she would hurry and maybe Nicholas would protect his things by taking them to the garage!!! :-D I would love it!)8- Dream Vacation
EUROPE! All of it!

9- Closet
Well I don't hang up very many of my clothes, the ones that are hung I rarely wear, besides my skirts on sunday.

This is where most of my clothes are kept (and in the laundry sorter)

10- Self Portrait
MY hair actully looked good today...it wasn't even hidden under a hat :-D

I tag Ashley, Kristen and Ben! Time to come clean!

Charly and my Doll

2008-09-22T20:58:00.000-07:00

This was my Cabbage Patch Doll my Aunt Carla made!
I love this doll! I am so glad Charlotte likes it too!

Our New Phones

2008-09-18T21:24:00.000-07:00

Mine

His

Now we need one for Charlotte... Maybe this one!

I am an officer!

2008-09-17T18:03:00.000-07:00

I was elected Treasurer for our American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) Student Chapter at Fresno State. I did not really think I would get elected, there were 3 other ladies running. We had to give a speech and I guess I said all the right things. It will be something else to busy up my schedule but I am very excited! It will be an amazing opportunity and will look fabulous on my resume. I really enjoy being a member of ASID and look forward to working behind the scenes and learning a lot.

FIRST PONY-TAIL

2008-09-13T12:58:00.000-07:00

She totally beat her cousin Elle :-D

Speaking of Elle, she has a new sister!

Teagan Reese Urien
9lbs 9oz - 22inches
September 12, 2008

(pictures will be up soon :-D)

Charlotte and the Frog

2008-09-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

Mary and Dominique gave this frog to Charlotte when we went to visit-and she LOVES it! She has started bouncing/rocking and that is about it...no rolling over and no crawling yet. But, plenty on sucking and chewing on everything!
She has the longest yawn in this video...it was right before nap time.

Talkin' to myself

2008-09-13T12:29:00.000-07:00

I love my Beautiful Baby!

2008-09-13T12:08:00.000-07:00

Click on the middle one to enlarge it and
you can see her TWO TEETH on the bottom!

Silly Slide Show

2008-09-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

Ben tagged me!

2008-09-04T12:08:00.000-07:00

4 Random Things I Like About My (significant other):

Eccentric
The best dish washer
Artistic
Loves Jane Austen

4 Movies That I Can Watch More Than Once:

You've got mail (favorite movie)
Ever After
Benny & June
The Music Man

4 TV Shows That I Watch:

Amazing Race
Wipeout
Bones
SYTYCD & American Idol

4 Places I've Been:

Bellingham, WA
Kauai, Maui, Oahu, Hawaii, HI
Acapulco, Mexico City, Mexico
New York, NY

4 People Who Email Me Regularly:

Hillary
Aunt Cathy
Jahn Trutna (Water Polo Referee Schedules)
Nancy Brian, Silvana Polgar, Vivian Coats (My Fresno State Insturctors)

4 Favorite Foods:

Mashed Potatoes
Brussel Sprouts
Pasta
Cheese

4 Places I Would Like To Visit:

Bellingham, WA
Greece
Prague
Australia

4 Things I'm Looking Forward To In The Next Year:

Charly's 1st Birthday
Graduation for Nicholas
Graduation for ME!
The Present Month (December is Birthday, Christmas and Anniversary)

4 People I Tag:

Ashley
Hillary
Kacey
Aaron & Kristen

I'm the man & he's the woman

2008-08-29T20:55:00.000-07:00

No joke. I am sitting next to my loving husband, as he reads the Twilight books. That's right. I have not had those books in our apartment, I have never had any desire to read them. I don't like to read...especially when I have to read boring stuff for school. (I do like reading about Interior Design though.) I used to in high school, but I just can't sit and read anymore, I have a hard enough time reading the scriptures...forget novels.

This is not the only situation that we have role reversals. When we got married we joined our book collections. I had all the "Kate" books (by Cheri J. Crane) and a few of Anita Stansfield books. (Both LDS authors) Wouldn't you know it that now we have 2 of each and then some from Nicholas. Of course, everyone has heard of Jane Austen. Well, my husband has taken courses in college on her writings. He has a gold plated compilation, as well as each individual book. You might have guessed it already but, he has all the movies too.

Now, don't get me wrong, he loves Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. He's not all woman. But I love the softer side of my sweet Nicholas ;-D

A few of our attracting opposites:
I Like sports-- he doesn't (only gymnastics)
He likes all sorts of music-- I like the radio
I like building things-- he likes buying things
He loves shopping-- I don't
I love the sunny beach-- he loves an overcast one
He likes a fan on all the time (365 days) -- my eyes and skin drys out
I like to keep driving-- he asks for directions
He likes scary movies-- I don't
I like figuring out how to fix cars-- he doesn't
He likes to talk on the phone for HOURS-- I don't
I like to get my hands dirty-- he despises it
He likes to keep his clothes CLEAN-- I could care less about spots

BUT, we both love the outdoors, camping, swimming, family time, meeting new people, being with close friends, eating, traveling and of course our Baby Charlotte :-D

Water Baby

2008-08-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

She loves her bath time and swimming!

This video is great because it sounds like she says "Hey!" back to her dad at the end.

Morning Monitor

2008-08-24T09:55:00.000-07:00

Charly has been spinning around in her crib during her naps. I will come in and she is all the way in the corner, up-side-down with her face in he blanket and feet sticking out, or sideways like this.
Charlotte talks to her feet and friends on her crib bumper EVERY morning! She will wake up and talk for at least 30 minutes before she starts getting fussy. She is such a happy girl :-D

Car Accident!

2008-08-23T09:55:00.000-07:00

Last night we were in a car accident. We are all fine. My elbow and wrist are sore but I am fine with that considering it could have been much worse. We were in our 93 escort instead of our 2003 focus. I was turning left onto maple from shaw (where I have turned left my whole life) going to my parents. It was going to be our first date since Charlotte was born. Well, my arrow turned green and I turned right by the 7-eleven there. Then I hear Nicholas say "Holy Crap" and WHAM (that horrible awful car accident sound). Then he asked me, "Holly, did you run a red light?" and I said "No, it turned green." He turned it to a crazy protective papa bear and started yelling at the people in the other car. Of course they say I ran the red light...but I KNOW mine turned green. I am just so thankful we are all okay. Especially Charlotte...she wined after the hit but I think she was just scared. I want to take her into her doctor Monday just to make sure. Hopefully all turns out alright.

Family Pictures July 2008

2008-08-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Bellingham

2008-08-20T11:20:00.000-07:00

This is the view from Nona and Papa's deck! Gorgeous.

Charlotte did very well on her very first airplane! She was very social and loved seeing all the people.
She also took a nap both ways :-D

Seattle was very beautiful too! The Space Needle gave us a great view and the weather was perfect.

Charlotte did some driving while waiting for dad in a Seattle Record Shop. She even knew how to shift.

We took a history cruise around Bellingham Bay and it was Gorgeous. The Sunset on one side and the moon rose on the other.

Canoing on the lake only 10 min away from their house was my favorite part and wished I would have done it longer and more than once.

Charlotte was always a happy girl. She did get congested and had some rough nights but during the day she was happy happy! Gianna and Ava loved playing with Charlotte and she always enjoys attention from anyone.

It was Grandpa who held her the most. Whenever she was not eating or sleeping he would request to hold her. She liked pulling at his chest hair and making Papa wail. He loved having a baby around. I loved having a Grandpa around!

Charlotte's Half Birthday

2008-08-02T20:38:00.000-07:00

Well, today was full of busy nothings. I watched Owen and Liam (Herb & Kelly Kellogg's boys) while she went to a sealing. Charlotte has had a cold and has been congested and she knows she can not eat or take her pacifier if her nose is plugged up. The problem is that even after I saline & suction and she is clear, I can not get her to latch on when she is starving. So this morning, with the boys wondering why I was torturing Charlotte and she has learned the arching her back so you can't move her defense...I planned a sneak attack and put her in the "football" position and she latched right on. But, then I thought she would go to sleep...no, she decided to play in Liam's crib for an hour before she went to sleep. She has just started that this week and I have surrendered due to the fact that she is occupied and happy. Meanwhile, I visited with Kelly while Charlotte finished her nap.

Next, I decided to spoil my self with a slushy from sonic (seeing it was happy hour and all). Then I picked up Nicholas (who had been at seminary in-service all day) and we went all around town. This cute little hang out "Lolli Cup" where Nicholas found his new favorite drink. And Target. I thought multiple times Charlotte would fall asleep in the car. Of course not. As soon as we arrived home around 5, with plans to go to a reception at 7:30, She wanted to eat and the I layed her down and she fell asleep-after playing for 10 minutes-no problem. :-D I knew she would wake up anywhere between 6 & 7. She cried at 7 and ate and stayed asleep. I was not about to wake her up and have a sick grumpy girl at the reception. So instead, here I am writing a blog about the nothings that happened today.

In addition, I believe this is the longest blog I have written, and I apologize it is quite uneventful. Yet, I know someone will read and understand what stage of life I am in. I love the beautiful girl the Lord gave me to learn to take care of, and I feel so blessed to have the opportunity to be her mother. I can not believe it has been 6 months! Oh how excited I am for the eternity to come!