Kari y Roberto

halloween time

2011-11-09T16:22:00.000-08:00

I made a Minnie Mouse dress for EmmaJane for Halloween, I was looking forward to this for a long time, one of the first things I said when I realized I'd have a baby this Halloween (when I was maybe 4 months prego) was "What is she going to be??" I also already have next year planned...having children is already so much fun! Can't wait for the rest!

Life.

2011-11-04T19:27:00.001-07:00

So I'm sitting in our car outside of a restaurant after wolfing my food down because my baby was screaming tired/hungry and I ran out to nurse her.
While that was a little whiny of me, I have to say theres nothing better than being the one and only thing your baby wants at all times. This is life, and it's wonderful.
On that note, here are some pictures of late.
1. Rolling onto our side like a big girl.
2. Halloween day
3. Getting into the spirit
4. So fresh and clean after TWO baths (pooped in the first one)
5. Sleepy mornings.
6. Sneaky baby grabbing everything I put into the cart at target.
7. Sitting up so well waiting for food.

Favorite phase.

2011-10-21T12:55:00.001-07:00

I see now why so many people say ages 3-5 months are their favorite age. This munchkin is brightening our lives with each bulldog cheek look.

Utah

2011-10-02T20:47:00.001-07:00

We're currently on our first vacation with baby in utah. We're staying with our dear friends Jeris and Suzanna for now and will then be in a hotel while Robert's at a training for work.
So far we've: discovered a new trick of sticking our tongue out (emmajane that is), seen the fall leaves on the Alpine loop, eaten at Ruth's diner up in emigration canyon, seen lots of Williams that live in Utah, I met the rest of the Finnish Kirsi's and today we visited temple square during conference while catching up with friends aaron and krystal, who we haven't seen in so long.
Still on the agenda: thrift shopping at DI (my long lost love), eating at the lion house pantry, visiting temple square lots more, me shopping with my sis in law, and kissing emmajanes chunky cheeks lots more.
I know I could never live here, but so far utah has been great!

Disneyland lovin.

2011-09-20T11:16:00.001-07:00

(how can you not love this little chunk??)

Now that are passes are finally good again, (curse you SoCal Select) we've been taking advantage with our new bundle in tow!

Our first Disney visit as a family, had to get the "1st visit" pin for EmmaJane, she'll thank me later. (p.s. don't I look so first-time-mom greasey in this picture? cute.)

Listening to the RagTime piano with Dad, and loving it.

First carousel ride!

Family photo-op!

Sleeping on our way out with one fist in the mouth, and one ready for back-up.

love this girl.

EmmaJane lately

2011-08-27T03:43:00.001-07:00

...according to my camera phone.

Miracles do happen.

2011-08-14T09:30:00.001-07:00

Starting last week my awake every 2-3 hour during the night baby turned into a awake every 45 min - 1 hour baby. I was hopeless, confused and very emotionally sleep deprived.
Thursday I saw her doctor for vaccines and when I told her of this, that I had yet to see my 6 week old baby sleep any longer than 2.5-3 hours at a time, she hugged me out of horror...and for the bags under my eyes.
EmmaJane must have heard us because that night at 3am I woke up convinced something was very wrong. Why? Because it had been 5 hours since I put her down...without a peep.

And as a result I had this to wake up to, this picture shows her double chin better than her smile, but you get the idea.

I understand this post was very first time mom boring of me...but it really was that amazing, I promise.

Blessin' the babe.

2011-08-08T14:59:00.000-07:00

EmmaJane got blessed by her father on August 7th, 2011. It was bt far the best moment thus far in being her mother. When Robert took her from my arms and walked with her to the front of the chapel with a crowd of family and friends who we love, I was overcome with gratitude for the priesthood and these wonderful things Robert is able to do for our little miss. It was a very proud moment. Here are some pictures from the day!

Sleep.

2011-08-02T22:36:00.001-07:00

Somebaby stayed awake for 5 hours and now will only sleep snuggled up to her momma.
I can't decide if I love or loathe this more.

Just decided, love.

Just wish I could function on no sleep.

First night out.

2011-07-30T02:40:00.001-07:00

When I opened up my birthday present back in March and saw that Robert had purchased tickets to see Mary Poppins just 3 weeks after my due date I was both smitten that he was already planning date nights and already scared to leave my baby at such a young age.
Luckily EmmaJane was born a week early so the age part wasn't a huge factor in my nervous mind.
But we're happy to report both mother and child survived.
And Mary Poppins is such a fun play to see. The "step in time" number actually had my full attention, thus it was my favorite, the rest was great but a certain baby had me slightly preoccupied. Its like everyone says you'll worry the whole time and I kinda believed them...but like I really did worry the whole time, not to mention the physical ache.

Nonetheless, All in all a successful evening.

I figured it out...

2011-07-27T21:11:00.001-07:00

This girl does not do well with swaddling, this is one of her favorite sleep positions.

Honey dew

2011-07-27T20:35:00.001-07:00

So get this, EmmaJane is going to be 4 weeks old tomorrow. That means the main task I will have for myself tomorrow will be coming up with some cute way to start taking her monthly portraits. I feel like a giddy silly mom when I think of things like this and what she'll be for halloween (eeeeee!!!!).
Though I'm still preoccupied with trying to get into a routine and squeezing in naps at any and all points of the day, having a baby girl is so much fun.
Did I mention shes smiled at me a few times now, while AWAKE. Yes, I teared up, I mean it was the first reassurance that this little chubby baby that I love so stinkin much and am so sleep deprived for actually loves me back. Amazing feeling.

Also I haven't figured out how to add photos on the blogger app, so sorry this post is a little boring.

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Introducing...

2011-07-10T16:48:00.000-07:00

Now that things are calming down a LITTLE bit, I thought I'd share with you all our greatest joy!

EmmaJane Lynn Williams
was born on June 30th, 2011 (6 days early!) at 3:24am
weighing 6lbs 4oz. and 18.5 inches long

Here are some pictures of her first week of life:Heading home!First walk with her papi! Playing after work

Still at the hospital, all happy and milk-drunk.

We are so happy she's finally here, she sure did surprise us!

My water broke on Wednesday June 29th around 9am. After many calls to mothers, husbands and finally the doctors office, we were told to go to labor and delivery (scariest words anyone has ever said to me). Once at the hospital they did some tests to see if it was actually my water that broke, and it was! So around 2pm they started me on pitocin, seeing as I was only at a 1, and had been since the previous Thursday. My nurse kept having to crank up my dosage because I was "looking too good" as she said, AKA I wasn't feeling anything.
Around 8pm, my contractions started hurting, bad. I'd say I felt about 15-20 really awful ones before I thought I should get checked. Luckily, the nurse that started my pitocin came back after a long hiatus with a different nurse and she could visibly see that I was in a lot of pain, compared to the last time she saw me. So she checked me and eureka! I was a 3-4, which meant epidural time. Like every birth story, I couldn't get my drugs right away so I was given stuff in my IV that passed me out for the next hour, which I didn't mind. My epidural did come, which was the most interesting feeling, it didn't hurt, it was just...interesting. It started working right away, but I got the shakes big time, it just felt like I was freezing and really nervous at the same time.
And my nurse told me to get some sleep so I can have energy to push that baby out, but yeah right. Everyone slept but me. How could I? I was about to become a mother, I was about to meet the little girl I had spent 9 months dreaming about.
Anyways, my doctor surprised me and came in around midnight to check me again and I was a 9! He was shocked considering my progress was so slow the last time he saw me (before my epidural). He was also very tired, EmmaJane was going to be his 5th baby delivered that night!
I tried to "sleep" some more and my nurse came in and put me on oxygen because the babies heart rate kept dropping with each contraction. So as you can imagine I really couldn't sleep after that.
Around 2am, my nurse came and we started doing some minor practice pushes. We did this for about an hour and she gave me a good 10 minute break and then it was time to kick everyone out and start pushing for real. So we did. And let me tell you, if I had actually written down a detailed birth plan, it would've been everything my nurse did for me. She let me progress well after I was 10cm dilated, she waited until I felt the pressure to push, she stretched me out to reduce tearing, she was beyond motivating when it came to pushing. And she was really funny. Imagine pushing a baby out and a little Filipino lady saying "Girl, I lazy, I want this baby out in 4 pushes, I no have time for this." It worked, 7 pushes and a call to the doctor later, out came EmmaJane!
Of course I cried. and cried. and cried. and well, so did she.
They cleaned her on top of me and took her away for about 2-3 minutes while they finished up stuff on me. and then I held her skin to skin for the next 2-3 hours, I loved it so much. The best part was this "golden hour" Hoag does, where no one disturbs you and baby and daddy for the first hour after she's born, it was so special, I recommend it. She calmed down right when I held her and I recognized all her little kicks and wiggles just like when she was inside of me.
We only spent 1.5 days in the hospital due to good health in both me and EmmaJane!

So here we are, parents. We can't believe she's ours!

Easter Best and Baby-Moon preview

2011-05-03T14:35:00.001-07:00

We had a really good 4 day weekend exploring the central coast last weekend. I miss it. Alot. Which is kinda surprising considering there's not much to do up there besides what we did. But really, I think I just love vacations with my husband.

Robert at Hearst Castle.

Me barely fitting into a funny phone booth in Solvang.

Easter Sunday/30 week bump picture. She's-a-gettin big folks.

you get the car, I'll get the night off.

2011-03-18T12:19:00.000-07:00

(that lyric reminds me of being younger and falling in love...)

For my birthday Robert got me 3 pairs of tickets to see shows at the OCPAC. First on the list was Wicked the day after my birthday! I'd been wanting to see it since we went this time...

(July 2008 - one week before we got engaged. We look miniature.)

I've been loving the soundtrack ever since so I was super excited Robert bought us tickets to see it.

and the night before he made me my favorite cake in the whole world, and even let me lick the bowl.

It was a really great birthday thanks to mi Roberto.

oh the belly...

2011-02-14T14:27:00.000-08:00

I am officially growing...in more than one place, naturally. Isn't that always the number one complaint from pregnant ladies? Sorry I'm so cliche.

But it really is fun, now that my baby is almost the size of a cantaloupe! That's crazy folks.

I'll be 20 weeks on Wednesday (Half way! Can I get a "what-what"?), and now I feel officially able to purchase items for this little gal coming our way before we know it.

I so thought I'd be better about the weekly belly pics...but I'm just not, and that's ok.

I also didn't anticipate the whole can't bend over without the baby getting really angry at me thing happening so early, I can barely put socks on still.

Good news #1? She's been kicking up a storm! It makes me so happy. Last night she got me really good as I was reading, it made me jump a little, more of that to come I'm sure.

Good news #2? It's Valentine's day and I've been feeling SO good lately, so good in fact that I've been able to eat dinner both Saturday and Sunday without gagging...what this means for Valentine's is a wonderful Disney date with my Valentine and being able to truly enjoy our last kid-free Valentine's day!

I'm really happy today. Love my husband. Love my baby.

Life. Is. Good.

and now that we know...

2011-02-09T11:33:00.000-08:00

...that this nausea causing bubble, sometimes almost bowling ball like shape in my belly I love so dearly is a GIRL, things are suddenly moving along. It's nice that this piece of knowledge, that it suddenly starts moving so fast when you find out what you're having, is actually true. No offense to other pregnant ladies, we are all different, but I was really hoping to lose the nausea, etc. by at least 16 weeks. Alas, today I am 19 weeks, and still get the pukes occasionally.

But really? who cares? This little girl is ours and she will be forever. When I think about the relationship I have with my mom and that my sisters have with my mom, I start to cry (ok, ok, I'm hormonal, I know). But she is so special to me, I can't wait to meet her...like really, really can't wait. But then again I can...I keep having nightmares that I'm going into labor at 20 weeks (which in my dream is not the scary part) and I have NOTHING ready, seriously scary.

ok the real reason?

2011-01-13T15:05:00.001-08:00

OK so the real reason I haven't blogged since October (who am I?) is because in early November we found out we're having a baby! Thus for the past 15 or so weeks nothing has interested me more than babies and not being sick anymore!

Now for details

I'm 15 weeks as of yesterday, which makes me due on July 6th.

Back in late October when my grandfather passed away, I started getting really hungry, I just felt like a bottomless pit. So I took a test one morning - got a really obvious YES, snuck back into bed (I took the test at 3am, I couldn't wait ok?!), and not so patiently waited for Robert to wake up. When he did I just leaned over and said, "Well, it says I'm pregnant." Not your "we're having a baby I Love Lucy special" but it sure did wake Robert up as I believe his reaction was "huuuhhh??" in a grunting awake sort of way. I think it's right up there with "Will you marry me man?" (true story.)

So for the next month and a half I became a recluse, stopped running (I don't want to talk about it.) acquired a taste for 3 breakfasts a day (6am, 7am, and 8:30am), and would rather not remember Thanksgiving 2010 for the rest of my life - not the company, well yes the company of one gummy bear baby in my belly making me crazy miserable.

We announced the pregnancy to both our families on Christmas, Robert's family (some of them) on Christmas Eve, and my family on Christmas. Everyone is really excited, and now that everyone knows it has me actually believing I get to have a baby! A squishy little love of my own.

We get to find out if it's a boy or girl on February 7th, Robert really wants a boy, therefore I think it's a boy, but we'll see if we get surprised! This will be grandchild #50 for Robert's mom and grandchild #6 for my mom!

"Morning" sickness is a million times better since Thanksgiving, but I'm still not 100% out of the woods (2nd trimester, where are you?). I'm emotional, cry at the drop of a hat in church or to any movie. And I really like candy - combine that with not running and well, gross.

It's crazy to believe that one little crush I had on a guy in my ward has now turned into us making a babe. told you I was emotional.

October? You MUST be joking.

2010-10-14T13:36:00.000-07:00

So it's October. But I'm using the excuse that it's still almost 80 degrees everyday as to why time has slipped away from me as of late. Remember the days I felt the need to express myself internet-ly just about everyday? Gone they are my friend, but I really want these memories so I'm trying.

So here's a bunch of mumbo jumbo (in NO particular order):

August 2010 - we went camping! Just down in O'Neil Park (between Irvine and Rancho Santa Margarita). We went with Brent, Linnae and Kirsi, it was so fun!

October 2010 - with family in town we picnic'd at the park and then headed down to the Shaw's Cove tidepools. I hadn't been there all summer which is so sad because I love this place and it's so close!

September 2010 - We've had a few lovely Autumn nights like this at Disneyland.

July 2010 - Paris. I wish I could relive this moment a few million times a day.

July 2010 - Paris again (hey pictures in order, woo!). Jardin du Luxembourg this time. sigh.

October 2010 - same night as tide pools. This is my husband jumping into the water as I watch from a distance, a sure to be trend in our marriage if we ever get our beach house. ;)

September 2010 - Robert's progress back then on creating my dream patio (not kidding I've always wanted a grassy/brick patio and/or driveway, who knew I'd get it so soon?) You should see it now! I have one amazing husband.

August 2010 - I went to visit the P family in Fresno! Here's B looking cute at the water park.

Momma, me and seester J looking super cute after a wet and relaxing day. Water parks are always the highlight of my summers.

It was a long and hot day and N didn't stop the whole time, until now.

Don't you love that B took time to smile but is still watching the TV?

August 2010 - We went to a few angel's games this year! Here's us (don't mind all my chins) and the Adams our good friends/neighbors.

July 2010 - Little N turned 3! That is just crazy.

September 2010 - Momma got one of those "give a day, get a day" tickets for Disneyland before they were gone so we were excited when September finally came (the month we planned to go) so we could go use it! We rode the carousel twice...and I think she wanted to do it more.

On the tram and so excited! It was seriously one of our best monthly dates to date! Love you mom!

A train is not the place...

2010-10-08T16:38:00.001-07:00

...to have personal phone conversations about how you broke the news of your divorce to your 4 year old son. oh and she just called her girlfriend to talk about what they'll wear "out" tomorrow. oh my heart is aching...

Lumber Jack husband.

2010-09-17T19:36:00.001-07:00

Saturday Morning.

2010-08-30T08:40:00.001-07:00

OC fair

2010-08-13T15:11:00.001-07:00

We ended up going to the fair sorta last minute, just the two of us, it was so fun...I always forget how much fun we have at anything when it's just the two of us!

baby chickies!

Robert's favorite was the big garden area

We paid $1 each to see this HUGE cow, and it was worth it, I was shocked. It looked at Robert and Robert literally ran out. Hilarious.

so cute.

Our indulgent treat of fried Australian Potatoes - a fair must from now on.

On the big high in the sky swing thing, we were so scared we couldn't stop laughing.

fried snickers was more like a breaded snickers. Don't recommend.

That was our fair experience, it made it really feel like summer. Besides the fact that it was about 65 degrees the whole time. Summer, please come out and play?

know how.

2010-08-05T15:34:00.000-07:00

circa summer 2008.

what is there to know?
all this is what it is
you and me alone
sheer simplicity

Finland!

2010-07-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

As of Tuesday Robert and I have been home from our wonderful 10-day European vacation! We started it off in Finland for 6 days with Robert's mom and sister Kathy. The last 3 days were spent in Paris, but that'll be on the next post!

Here's some highlights from Finland! (p.s. for those who don't know, we went to Finland because that's where Robert's mother is from, aka Robert is 1/2 Finnish and there's still family there!)

Our first night swim in the Baltic! Oh and this is at like 11pm, the sun doesn't set until midnight-ish!An old fort island called "Suomenlina" in Helsinki, Robert looooved it.
Shopping in Helsinki with my mother-in-law Eila and Robert's cute cousin Petra Kirsi, who lives in Helsinki.We went to a park called "Aulanko" it was SO pretty with tons of things to see and climb in Robert's case. Me next to an old wall at an old rock church we went to see, I loved how the moss and grass were growing on top of this wall, so neat.
Our last full day in Finland we spent the day at the lake house of a relative, Ritva and her husband, everyone, well mostly, has a lake house in Finland. Most of them don't have running water or electricity, true camping! Robert and his uncle Jukka walking down to a lake to go swimming, again around 10pm at night!
Robert striking a pose at his Mummi's house that we stayed at in Lahti, Finland for 2 days.
Getting water from a real fresh spring water well for the cabin for the day

me braving the outhouse at said cabin

the cabin.walking through Helsinki on our way to Paris!

To see more pictures check out the album I'm soon to put on my facebook page!

Fenn Photography

2010-06-16T09:54:00.000-07:00

Hey Utah friends!

My dear friends Natalie + David (as seen above)

of Fenn Photography are having a giveaway!

Check out their website for details

here

I mean look at their pup, how could you not want to enter their giveaway?!

on steroids.

2010-06-11T16:35:00.000-07:00

Do you ever log onto like WebMD and see these awful pictures of skin disorders as you're trying to diagnose a little itchy patch or something on your arm? And you find yourself saying, "Well that kinda looks like it, but I'm not that bad." Well...I wish I could say that.

NOTE: Don't try to save yourself money by shopping for lotion at the Dollar Tree.

This picture only shows about HALF of what's going on on my legs (just the lower half - thank goodness), oh and it's all over my elbows and creeping up my arms.

Blogs are like journals right? I wanted to document my first experience with hives.

The Friday before Memorial Day we got kicked out of work around 1pm and so we made a Disney Daytime Day out of it. I always forget how fun it is during the day!

We rode the canoes! and the best part was the little girl in front of me that was splashing me the whole time.

Squinty eyed Big Thunder Mtn. picture.

And just because I love our neighbors and their babies, here is Roberto with little P, isn't he adorable?!

Iron Man 2 afterall.

2010-05-14T19:36:00.000-07:00

photos of times passed.

2010-05-14T10:46:00.000-07:00

Maybe someday I'll love this blog again, until then, here are some photos of times passed, in reverse order, because that's how lazy I am...enjoy.

funny today.

2010-04-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

In emails back and forth with my husband/co-worker:

me: Yea, Staples stinks, you would think by now they would have figured it out.
Robert: Sometimes you just can't smell yourself, even when it smells like dog poop.

He said 'dog poop' because last night something wreaked in our apt and it
smelled like dog poop...Robert kept saying it was me! so sweet.

And, Robert yelled "No tricks Cesar!!" as we passed this sign on the way to work this morning:

We're psychotic and we think we're hilarious. and we love it.

provident living.

2010-03-23T14:49:00.000-07:00

I should probably watch this everyday to remind myself of the value of saving our money and to avoid over-spending on things we don't need...I think we can all be a little better.

by the way...

2010-03-12T12:26:00.000-08:00

did i tell you? My hair is healthy again and I'm in HEAVEN. This is my hair today, just washed this morning, no curling iron just a little twist here and there. It is a little uneven but that's because it was such a mess that more was cut off in some places compared to others. anyways, it makes me happy.

Oh and other good news? The red is fading so I should be able to go blonde in just a couple weeks. yipppeeeee...

it'll be good to be home.

Daylight Savings!

2010-03-12T10:41:00.000-08:00

I'm really excited about Daylight Savings time this year for 3 reasons:
1. I will get home from work before it's dark!
2. Because of #1 I will be able to go running more often at night!
3. It means longer days will soon be here a.k.a. SUMMER!

So do as Mickey says and set your clocks ahead one hour this Sunday!

friday night.

2010-03-05T22:04:00.001-08:00

(This picture has nothing to do with this post, but wasn't, I mean isn't, my husband the cutest?!)

Robert and Mike are playing Smash Brothers so I thought I'd take this moment of extreme boredom (Carly - you know where I'm coming from) to update our blog!

This week has been long for multiple reasons, let's put it this way, I made dinner on Sunday for some neighbors and the last few days that house has stunk when we've come home from a dirty dishes/trash can stank. So now that you all know I'm a wonderful homemaker, I vow to deep clean the house tomorrow morning.

Life is good though. Robert's been working hard to study for his upcoming PE exam (prayers would be nice!). For those of you who don't know the PE exam is the "Professional Engineer" exam - the one you have to take to become a real engineer, the real dealio, if you will. It's 2 days long in April, as of now Robert is taking a class every Saturday (that's like working 6 days a week + studying during the week) to prepare. So his life has been full lately, to say the least.

As for me (Kari that is, as if Robert has ever written in this blog, let alone read it regularly ;) ), I'm staying busy working and getting to know our new ward (I can still consider myself new if I've been here 5 months and have had limited social interaction with anyone outside my courtyard right??). I'm loving Woodcrest and all the friends we've made (see previous comment on those I've met in our courtyard). Working full-time in downtown LA is crazy, but I'm slowly getting used to it - someone please remind me why I quit my 20 hour a week job please? I turn 25 on Monday (whitegirlsaywhat??) so I'm having some heart palpitations about that, but I think I'll survive.

Robert still laughs anytime I mention painting the living room...but I'm making progress.
Our bedroom still looks like an empty, boring, bland, horrific dungeon...but I have a plan, I swear.
I'm learning to love vacuuming, but mopping is not coming on as fast (but I do love my new huge kitchen).
I found out last weekend that I should not have been using 409 on our wood-top (I swear it's like laminated or something) coffee table, so I've been worried about it ever since (see previous post of dishes not getting done and stinkin' up my house all week - and you'll understand why my wood still sits, un-pledged).

That's how we've been.

OK, the insults between Robert and Mike are getting louder...wish me luck.

red/gray/straight/curly...

2010-02-24T16:54:00.000-08:00

I most likely will be chopping some - a decent some - of this hair this weekend due to a year of self haircuts leading to an alarming amount of uneven and fried to a crisp (quite literally) ends. So I thought I'd document. Can you see where the hair just gives up at the bottom and lies flat? Thats quite the opposite of a natural reaction from my hair friends.

Also recolored the red last night, because why not keep it for a while longer, considering I may never go back right?

Opinions? I find myself yearning for the blonde in the previous posts...it will come back though, right??!

once a month.

2010-02-23T19:56:00.000-08:00

So I guess it's a new thing, I only post once a month? Well guess so.

In January we went down to San Juan Capistrano, this was a big deal to me because ever since Robert went down there when he first started his job (2+ years ago) he told me all about it, brought me back pamphlets and told me he'd take me there someday and he knew I would fall in love with it. So 2 years later...we made it.

we "donated" the $2 to the SJC Historical Society to tour the rickety old beautiful O'Neill house (as in O'Neill park, etc. etc.).

I love orange trees in front yards, def a requirement.

(this sign is really incriminating and makes it look like we went on Sunday . . . I promise we didn't.)

We didn't go into the mission...it was like $10! That's rich in our book...

After a stop at the new Lake Forest Cafe Rio (much to Robert's dismay - he is a loyal Costa Vida fan - but I'm still dreaming of that salad...) we stopped at Dana Point to check out the bay, I'd never been and was very, very impressed, Orange County has yet to cease to amaze me.

Also in January we had a Monday off (MLK Day) so we went to Disneyland because it was pouring rain. To Robert a rainy day = a disney day.

This is me, already soaked just from walking from our car in Downtown Disney to the Monorail in Downtown Disney (about a 5 minute walk), a bad sign (oh and I dyed my hair red - it's super bright here I promise it's calmed down).
The park was EMPTY and it stopped raining after a while, it was seriously heaven. But isn't it always? This night was not as rainy or empty, so we rode the teacups, not something I can tolerate very often... (oh and I told you my hair calmed down).and I was put in my place...they were crrraazzyyy fun.

Now that February is almost over we're just going to act like it never happened so I can again be on top of my blogging. Am I right or am I right? right. right.

hmmm...

2010-01-27T13:48:00.000-08:00

new years (can i still say that?) resolution:

pay attention in Sacrament meeting more.
get distracted by silly photo sessions less.

yes. robert is playing brickbreaker, knew you were wondering.

sappy

2010-01-08T12:36:00.001-08:00

Whilst stalking Paula Deen's house on Google Maps (don't worry I found it) I decided to check out the last few places I lived to see if they caught me outside or something (worried about big brother-esque shots of myself) and I stumbled upon this:

That's Robert's Mazda that is no longer with us. It's parked outside of his 17th street house.

I'm incredibly nostalgic. Miss that car, miss those times.

ho ho ho.

2009-12-28T19:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas is over :( The short vacay went by fast, and now Robert and I are both home this evening with stomach aches. No, not from too much egg nog (though I thought that was the cause last night after consuming 3 glasses of the artery-clogging holiday beverage.)...we're pretty sure we got some form of the flu that's been going around.

Anyways, here's how Christmas went for us

Robert was a wise man in the pageant. Spent lots of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with Rach-b-nach, my soon to be Hawaii Livin' niece. :(

The Adams' joined us for Christmas Eve, it was nice since we love them all like family :)

Robert amongst the loot post-opening presents. Completely forgot to take pictures during all the excitement!

Visiting with Momma...

Outside our front door on Christmas morning, Hope all your Christmases were just swell!

I'm married to a 30 year old.

2009-12-28T18:45:00.000-08:00

Robert turned 30 on the 18th of December, it was pretty darn exciting. I had been planning his party for a while so it was exciting that it was finally here!

The party was on the 19th, so on the 18th we got a chance to spend some time together, of course we went to Disneyland to get his free monies!

After grabbing the mula we went to get some dinner at the Storyteller's Cafe, mucho delicioso.

Then the party on Saturday. One of my requirements for me to throw this party was for me not to stress out...this was Robert's request, and I think I did pretty darn good!

Happy Birthday Babes.

thank goodness for Christmas baking...

2009-12-22T10:20:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday I was preparing a cake for Robert's birthday and my hand mixer broke. Robert bought me that hand mixer our first Christmas together...I was sad to see it go. And immediately panic-y when I thought of all the Christmas goodies I had yet to bake! How was I going to do it without my faithful little mixer buddy?

But my sentiments towards the broken mixer were soon turned around when I suggested we should just go use our Williams-Sonoma money from our wedding (I had been hanging onto it because who can justify spending $60 on a cookie sheet??) and just buy a KitchenAid already. You can imagine my shock and amazement when Robert said, "Ok! Get it!"

So as of last night I am the proud owner of this little beauty...

I'll admit, it was a tough decision between Buttercup Yellow and Lemongrass Green. But yellow has been good to me thus far...

Anyways, I will hopefully blog soon on Robert turning THIRTY and Christmas around the corner! But for now...

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Georgia on my mind.

2009-11-22T18:23:00.000-08:00

To celebrate our first whole year of marriage - and to really just take a much-needed vacation - Robert and I went to Savannah, Georgia...

I know, I know what some if not all of you are thinking at this point, "Why Savannah??" Well, I've always wanted to see the South and as prices grew higher and higher the longer we were indecisive about a trip to NYC...Savannah it was. And let me tell you, it was the best trip I've ever taken.

Here are some highlights:

This is Robert in Reynold's Square, it was the square right next to our hotel. (look at those trees!!)

All the iron work everywhere was gorgeous. This was my favorite.

In a square after our anniversary dinner, we ate at a restaurant called The Olde Pink House it was very fancy...I got the lobster.

One of our many times of wandering the city, this is the Cotton Exchange where they used to buy and sell the first cotton clothing.

We rented bikes one day to be able to get around the city better...this was one of those days I wish I could re-live everyday.

Paula Deen's Lady and Sons restaurant. I got the buffet. Best fried chicken I've ever eaten. Let's just say I had trouble standing up straight when we left.

Relaxing in another of the many squares. This is right before I found the ugliest, hugest bug on Robert's shoulder and we both jumped up and squirmed around like idiots. priceless.

The Atlantic Lake, I mean Ocean.

At Fort Polanski. It was a really neat Fort from the Civil War era. As I took this picture Robert had his hand outside in the shape of a gun and was saying "Boom, boom,boomboomboom..." classic.

Nice sunset over the Georgian marshes. It was strange seeing it set over something that wasn't an ocean. A nice change.

So that was Georgia. It was beautiful, it was relaxing. Mostly though...it was nice to be with Robert celebrating our first year of marriage and remembering our special day and our honeymoon and trying to relive it. Ok, enough shmoopyness. Savannah's awesome. go there.

what we been doin.

2009-10-24T16:09:00.000-07:00

New couch, new side table, same coffee table that finally feels at home.

1. Most boxes are unpacked but I have few havens in our apartment that I can actually sit in and relax knowing everything is where I want it to be. This is a long decision process for me.

2. We booked our anniversary trip finally! And we're going to Savannah, Georgia! I've ALWAYS wanted to see the South and it seemed the best way to actually relax on our little vacation. Points of interest I can't wait for: Riverboat cruise, Haunted Ghost Trolley tour, Horse drawn carriages, Antique stores galore, and Paula Deen's Lady & Sons Restaurant (yum.).

3. I can't believe we've almost been married a year...and when I say I can't believe it, I mean because it feels like we've always been married. And I mean that in a good way.

4. I'm working 4 days a week with Robert nowadays, it's fun being together alot!

5. My arms have been sore for 2 weeks from painting, yes painting. I am such an incredible wimp.

6. Robert's out eating El Torito right now for Ryan's bachelor party and I am sooo jealous.

7. In our little courtyard here we are surrounded by youngin's ages 4 and under and I love it, they're so friendly, we have a welcoming committee each night :)

8. Went to a Halloween party last night and did the 3 legged race and I was the first to fall face first, which therefore brought Robert down face first...his reaction? "Get up! We're gonna be last!!!" loved it.

9. Robert usually lets me do what I want when it comes to decorating, but a couple weeks ago he said, "Honey...we have alot of empty picture frames in our house." hint hint? I MUST search through our thousands of wedding pictures.

10. Our new laundry room is coin-op. This is already a thorn in my side.

distance makes the heart grow fonder.

2009-09-21T11:08:00.000-07:00

boy, they weren't kidding.

One question...will Wednesday at 8:04pm ever come??

Hope.

2009-09-18T12:19:00.000-07:00

Nie shared, and I can't help but also.

The gospel gives me chills it's so amazing.

click here: http://http//www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbsU3b2srQA

3.5 day weekend.

2009-09-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

This weekend was one of those weekends that I'm sure I will look back on when I have 5 little-tykes running around (5 or 7, not 4 or 6, I hate even number kids - which one is supposed to be the rebel middle child?) I will say "Seriously, how did we ever do that?"

I didn't take a single picture...but sometimes I think life is better sans-film and pure-memories.

It started out on Friday: Robert got home earlyish and we lazied around for hours together (a real treat) and then finally picked up a Pizza-Hut not stuffed crust but cheesy nonetheless pizza (not recommended) and headed to a park full of ducks! I loved them, until they started chasing me - not joking.

After we got some ice cream (Thrifty's gets their shipment of "Chocolate Malted Crunch" on Fridays...so we picked up a tub), and we watched our newest copy of "Miss Pettigrew Lives for a Day" one of my favorite movies by far. a must see.

Saturday: Robert surfed, I worked out, etc. in the a.m., Then we went to the Orange circle for the annual International Street Fair! We didn't buy any of the food but we walked in a few antique stores and fell in love with things we didn't buy...including a dresser I'm still mildly bitter about.

After that we stopped by the Adams' to say 'allo' and toured our soon to be digs (and now I have it all planned out) after that we headed to our Alma-matter of Huntington Beach to enjoy free Daphne's (Thank you Red Cross) and to see the new "Transformers" at the cheap theatre. We hadn't seen it because everyone said it was retarded, but honestly and truly...I was thoroughly entertained.

Oh! and I can't forget visiting my favorite Golden Spoon - the only one I know that still won't rip you off....

Sunday: Pretty regular, went to church, ate leftovers and then we went on a long walk in the back bay (near the nature center) and it was a TON of fun...also picked out our future home :)

Monday: On Monday we got up pretty early to meet our Bro-in-law and a few nieces and nephews at his boat in Huntington and we took it out to Catalina! I have to admit, I was not prepared for the speed, wetness and anxiety that ensued as we left the harbor, but I'm glad I toughed through it, it was a good experience for my wussy self. Once we got to Catalina others snorkeled while I stayed in the boat (the water was WAY to choppy OK?!) but luckily I talked my bro-in-law to taking us to a nearby cove where I got in the water and swam to land (my stomach needed some calming...) it felt good to get out of my comfort zone, it needs to happen more often.

After more snorkeling, etc we headed back home and my face is now evidence of me facing the sun all the way home (sunglass sunburn line: check.).

So that was the weekend. I had to write it down so that I can remember it and this summer in general. After all, our Disneyland passes are good on the weekends again, Water parks are no longer open every day and I'm seriously considering my next coat purchase...this can all only mean one thing, FALL. And I've never been more ready.

don't worry...

2009-08-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

the reason I haven't been blogging on this blog is not because I've decided to keep everything from everyone...nor that I'm too lazy to document our awesome lives. It's simply because...not a whole lot has gone on. :/

Well i guess we got a new car again...yes, it is the better version of our late hotred...haven't named her yet (don't want to get attached?) but she's pretty much the mother of Nona (my beloved Corolla) same color, same company, just bigger and fancier. Fancier because she has a back up camer, GPS, IPOD cable and Sunroof. This is her, but just dark blue, not black.

I like it.

Well I guess we did also have friends visit, Jeris and Suzanna were down for about a week and we enjoyed eating out, staying up late, freezing on the beach, laughing when Jeris broke that surfboard and did I mention laughing - these two are halarious - with them...no pictures though :/. But I'm confident on Robert and I's combined with Mike and Carly's efforts...we could have the Hobbs in California by next summer :)

Also, our good friends Ryan and Madison got engaged!!! It was the most exciting text message I've ever received and I couldn't be MORE happier for them...their wedding date is November 6th! I love fall weddings!! (duh.) Congrats you guys!

And now what we have to look forward to? WE'RE MOVING!! Just to Tustin but we're going to miss our little Newport Beach 1st Ward (and I'm especially going to miss our lovely Young Women :( ) but we're ready to live in a bigger and cheaper apartment (hallelujah.), also to be close to friends and family, and also a shorter commute to the train every morning for Robert and also a place with less cops, drug attics and poop (phew, that was alot of "also's"). We move into Mormon Manor a.k.a. Woodcrest apts in Tustin on October 3rd (Pencil it in, we'll need your help!), keep your fingers crossed that we get the apt. next to Mike and Carly and not the one in the corner! Oh and best of all, there's a Trader Joes within walking distance!

What I'm especially looking forward to is Robert's 30th birthday...not sure on the details yet, it's not a surprise party or anything (right...like I could pull that off??) but I promise good food, good punch, good cake, good smells, cute decorations and handmade invitations are all in the future. Friday, December 18th! Once again, pencil it in! It's still 4 months away but I figure it's like planning a wedding...

I really like this garland...of course it won't be pink.

Other than that, our 1 year anniversary is slowly yet surely (and will be here before we know it once we move) approaching and I am slowly yet surely re-introducing the idea of a cruise (Mexico of course)! I hope it happens!

Ok, ok so I lied...alot has gone on.

july, july

2009-07-22T10:59:00.000-07:00

July is passing quite quickly I must say...here's how we've been loving it:

Went to my first Angels game and was thoroughly impressed with the dining options. 4th of July was a good one, our activities included but were not limited to: Ward breakfast (there were no pancakes, it was amazing), buying fireworks (as documented above), BBQ at Robert's parents house (which also included trimming bushes-as documented below), fireworks, friends, family...You get the idea. Robert looked like a child in this BYU hat from the 70s. We started off our mini-vacay last Thursday by going to the circus! The elephants were my favorite, so adorable.After the show.

The next day we headed to Palm Springs. This is the first picture I snapped on our trip, we were walking from a parking structure to a movie theatre (to see Harry Plopper of course) and within 30 seconds we wanted to die, it was SO hot. This is Robert trying to act like he's having a good time, but really just wants to go sit in the hotel room all day - and we did. We loved our hotel...it was smaller than what we had anticipated, but it was perfect. It was decorated in a modern-Spanish colonial style. This is the floor in the lobby area, I had to document it for my future patio and/or sundeck someday. This is the door to our room, isn't it just gorgeous? The details in this place were killing me. The floor in our bathroom - it was concrete with ceramic tiles laid into the ground, again it killed me. My favorite part of the whole bathroom, the toilet paper holder. Ok but really look at it, it was SO beautiful. I want one. Other than me obsessing over the architecture, etc. we did some night swimming - the only time of day it was sane to be outside for more than 10 minutes. did some laying out - if you can call it that at 10 at night. I just liked this one of Robert, NOT of me.Lost on the way to IHOP, dang one-way streets. The remnants of the BEST fried ice cream I've ever eaten, Robert thought I was crazy for "mmming and yummming" while we ate it. Guess it hit the spot. All in all, Palm Springs treated us very well. We were sad to see it go, but glad to be back in weather that is under 85 everyday. I love you Newport Beach, I really do.

Also, not documented (for obvious reasons) was Knott's Soak City, it was nice to be wet all day in that heat, even though as we left we were completely dry by the time we go to the car.

And the question we kept asking ourselves "WHY would anyone live here permanently?" We understand the Winter/Spring houses but honestly...those people are nuts.

and now, moving on...

2009-07-13T13:26:00.000-07:00

So the good news is I'm currently making my list (and checking it twice-only 5 months to Christmas, not too early) but this is a summer list. Make that a summer getaway list...yes, it's true we are going away this weekend to beautiful Palm Springs! Mostly, I needed an excuse to wear a bathing suit all day (a summer requirement at least once a week) and feel like I'm actually enjoying my first summer as a newlywed!

So here I sit, making my list and even though it's only two nights, I find myself with a horrendously long list...

Finally being able to go on vacation does require me to bring all my favorite articles of clothing. right?

But no, we will not be taking our lovable hotred on this excursion...she's very sick. Thanks to the loser behind us on PCH on Saturday as we drove home. Turns out plugging in your headset is just as dangerous (if not more so) as talking on your phone sans-headset.

But these busted-car blues(if you weren't counting that was twice in one month busted-car blues) are nothing some 110+ degree weather, Soak City, lots of swimming and exploring a new town and new restaurants can't handle right? RIGHT. don't call us, we'll be on our romantic getaway! finally!

vroom vroom.

2009-07-02T21:50:00.000-07:00

So after work today Robert and I went to look at a car...1 hour later we were driving it away from the parking lot, bought and sold! It's exciting really, it's a hatchback like I wanted, all power (unlike my car) and cherry RED, which I kinda randomly love suddenly.

Here it is our new (to us) 2006 Pontiac Vibe - well this isn't ours, just a photo I found on Google:
We like her. Hot red, hot tamale, Hotrod...these are all names we're considering.

bada-bing.

2009-06-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

Convinced the hubbs to work the rest of the day from home and go with my on our YW hike up El Moro Canyon tonight...this is going to be a good night.

Also, how much would you all hate me if I drove a Scion XB? Are they too racer-wannabe-ish? They're so roomy and you can get them for decent prices...need opinions. UPDATE: I like the white ones best.

ALSO, about to eat a free taco.

all for now.

rough.

2009-06-19T15:49:00.000-07:00

this is Robert after a rough day, we got in the car to go rent a movie, but ended up at the beach instead and it was beautiful! The perfect break after a somewhat stressful day...let's just say we're now in need of a car. It was just SO good to see him happy, seriously, dipping his toes immediately awakened him and he was all smiles! I'm so glad he's ok!

There was a child who was born to be the one who comforts me

Who grew up strong and brave and holy, loves me rough and tenderly

Can it be understood the reasons why you belong to me?

lately shmately.

2009-05-27T16:12:00.000-07:00

Whilest in LA today for work, I met Robert for lunch and we went to Philippe's! I had seen the place on the Travel Channel's top 10 sandwiches in the US show...it's where the French Dip was invented and it was so authentic and fabulous. My now nausea has nothing to do with my gluttony this afternoon. Surfer man. I went to watch in the freezing cold April wind...he bought me Souplantation. Fair trade. This=proof that I got bored while Robert was surfing and decided to drown my sorrows in baking...hmm sounds alot like THIS afternoon.

Grabbing a bite to eat at the ole Farmer's Market, Disneyland, CA. This is post whole basket of fish and chips and pre riding California Screamin' right away and being the closest I've ever been to letting it all out on a roller coaster I've ever been. Needless to say, the large sized chocolate swirl cone from Catch-a-flave, didn't exactly remedy my situation.

a memory.

2009-05-23T09:15:00.001-07:00

Old picture off Robert's old, old phone. At Casa Verde, I like to think I won him over with my culinary skillz.
The summer before I met Robert he had black hair...ha.

6 month-i-versary!

2009-05-15T09:16:00.000-07:00

One of those wedding day moments, you know the ones when one of you say "Hey husband!" or "Hey wife!" it's all so exciting...

I seriously remember our 6 month dating-versary like it was yesterday, I remember being so excited that day because it was my longest relationship and I knew I was in love for good-even though neither of us had admitted to it yet. This was taken that summer of 2007...I can't believe it's almost been 2 years since then!

and yes I still wear that red-Asian inspired dress every chance I get, Urban Outfitters never disappoints.

So now here we are 6 months into being MARRIED as of today May 15th, and I'm already finding it hard to remember how it was to have to say good-bye to him every night and walk him to his car, or him walk me to mine and stand at our car doors and kiss and hug until it was 30 minutes later and we had to get realistic...because now it's more like, "You finish the Lakers game and tell me how it goes, I'm going to go read and then go to bed." aaahh...romance.

As far as what I remember from the wedding day? Waking up really early and really awake, yet really calm. My biggest concern being realizing that I was going to get married that day and making sure I had enough time to do my hair--and I did, both. Also, realizing on the way to the temple that I was leaving for Maui the next day, it was really exciting--Honeymoons are the best invention ever.

So Happy 6 month-i-versary mi Roberto, here's to many more 6 months of nights of reading in bed side by side, having sleepovers when you have to wake up at 6am and countless delivered pizzas. Love you babycakes.

I love this picture, it's like us walking into our future together...so corny, but it makes me get really teary eyed. I loved this day with all my heart and will always cherish it.

for the record.

2009-05-12T21:40:00.000-07:00

Robert and I's marriage also commenced the announcement of "All Williams are married!" as well. I posted it when my brother got married about the Simonsen's and Robert (and me) felt it necessary to point out that neither of us will ever have to go to a sibling wedding again.

So yes Roberto,

All Williams' are Married!

thank heaven too. Thanks everyone for not giving up too much hope on mi Roberto.

snow. glad i don't live in it.

2009-05-08T15:36:00.000-07:00

first time in snow together, it was glistening all over like something out of a claymation movie, but it was cold, and getting into my converse.

something that made me giggle a little.

2009-04-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

This morning I was in the gym in our complex, and therefore unavoidably watching CNBC and them talk about the 'Swine' as well as Chrysler going under...finally President Obama gets up to talk and this part of his speech made me giggle a little...

"For too long," Obama said at the White House, "Chrysler moved too slowly to adapt to the future, designing and building cars that were less popular, less reliable and less fuel efficient than foreign competitors."

...because it's like DUH. Does this bankruptcy really come as a surprise to anyone my age? Sure it's an American legend, but the cars are hideous and not practical whatsoever...they make the PT Cruiser for goodness sakes! This was bound to happen in this economy.

See...I watch the news.

All Simonsens are married!

2009-04-28T16:44:00.000-07:00

SERIOUSLY, my husband is so amazingly handsome. scruff and all.

This past Sunday, April 26th, marked the end of the weddings in our family (well, until the little ones grow up and get married...but we're not talking about that.)

Trevor and Daniaelle got married at the Fullerton Arboretum, it was SUCH a beautiful place to tie the knot, I reccomend it. They asked me to be their 'pseudo-wedding-planner' and I was thrilled!

The day was a little crazy, the only time I sat down for more than 2 minutes was during the ceremony. But I was thrilled to help, and I only needed one full day to recooperate.

putting flowers on the cake - the cake showed up 2 hours late, I felt like I was on a TV show.

Sneak peak of the bride and her maids(aka sisters) before the ceremony, I seriously love her family, they all seem very close like ours.Mike and Bethany waiting for the ceremony to begin...There always to be something precious about Olivia...this time it was her silhouette.Walking back as husband and wife (isn't the arbor so pretty??)

I had to add this blurry picture. Instead of dancing, etc they had a basket full of 'lawn games', and this is Nadia running around with a bubble-making-gun singing "Bu-bbles, buuu---bbblessss..." just after this picture I went to touch her head to give her a 'love pat' and my hand was covered in bubble liquid goo. I think she really enjoyed them.

babies babies everywhere...

2009-04-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

So I have two new nieces...

First is Kirsi, she's just over 2 months old but I just met her so she's still new to me, I can't wait for her to come visit us!On the day of her blessing, something about babies in all white that makes me melt.

And then there is my pseudo-niece Evie (pseudo because she's the daughter of Robert's life long friend Josh and they're practically brothers), she's not even a week old yet but I think I love her already, so glad she's finally here Kristen!

I stole this photo from Michelle, but I felt ok about it since that's my yellow sweater(of course) holding that little angel.

And for the record I know 4 other people who are pregnant. babies. they're everywhere.

pic-a-nic.

2009-04-18T16:05:00.000-07:00

it was nice. it took a while to find parking, we were starved.

Happy first really, really beautiful warm weathered day of Spring everyone.

bookcase.

2009-04-14T12:10:00.000-07:00

excited to go home so i can start recreating this out of my old bookcase my mom delivered to our apartment 2 months ago...

that's right. the thank you cards might have to wait, yet again.

Now if i only had a Tiffany Blue couch like that...

taggity tag tag.

2009-04-07T15:44:00.000-07:00

the tag: self-portrait now. don't change your clothes, don't do your make-up, just take the picture.

I miss my freckles.

I tag: Natalie Fenn, Kim Mays, Sara Doud annnnd Melanie Clarke.

considering.

2009-04-07T11:53:00.000-07:00

Robert and I are headed up to Utah on Friday (leaving at 4am, agh.) for our new niece's blessing! I cannot wait to meet baby Kirsi...or maybe mostly see Brent and Linnae as baby momma's and poppa's, this ones been a long time coming and I'm SO happy for them!

anyways, onto more important things, I've kinda fallen in love with these shorts from Shade clothing:

1. because I need knee length shorts 2. they're grey and 3. well i need knee length shorts

My question to my fellow momo ladies is, does anyone have any experience with shade clothing's shorts/pants? are they worth the $36.50? I'm thinkin of stopping by their store in Orem and want to know if it's worth bugging my husband to go there.

thanks lovelies.

a wedding.

2009-04-02T11:04:00.000-07:00

I never blogged about my sister's wedding and now that i'm back in the wedding spirit with my brother's wedding coming up in a few weeks I felt the need to share...

My sister got married on Halloween in Vegas, yes just 2 weeks before my own wedding date...but that's a story for another time.

Anyways my sister's wedding was more traditional than mine in so many ways, which is not what you would think by looking at us

I don't know why we're laughing, but I absolutely love this picture. (p.s. this was 5 days before entering the temple, last day in a sleeveless top! woo!)

The weather was beautiful that weekend and we enjoyed plenty of "girl time" in the hotel room before the ceremony getting everyone ready! But i couldn't believe how calm my sister was, she was just like whatever that looks good, let's just do this. But then 2 weeks later...I was calm too, almost too calm. I think we both were suffering from "I've been waiting too long for this to be nervous, I am beyond ready."

The ceremony was short and sweet and we had a blast afterwards at the steak house inside of the Treasure Island Hotel (also where we stayed)...

anyways it was a wonderful weekend, here are some more picturesthe bride and her bridesmaids(aka sisters), i loved loved loved the bouquets.Grammy (mother of the bride) and flower girl 4 out of 5. Robert and I after the ceremony, it was so exciting to realize this was our last trip as just boyfriend and girlfriend! Look at his hair! such a handsome little man. (p.s. why does it look like i'm gripping onto my flowers for dear life?)

sometimes...

2009-03-30T13:20:00.000-07:00

I can't believe he chose me.

Last night we went to a friend's house and watched old home movies of dirty little boys on various scout and Priest trips around the age of Robert being 17-18. Boy was he handsome, hands down I would've staked my claim.

Oh it makes me love it that much more.

and for the record: he's always been calm, collected and the stander-by.

ooga-chaka.

2009-03-24T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is one of my very favorite pictures from our wedding, it's my background on my work computer and when people see it, they often gasp out of awe. Thanks Dre, for making my co-workers gasp.

Tagging is for lovers.

2009-03-19T10:36:00.000-07:00

Took this from Miriam who wrote it lovelier than I did, but thus is life...

1. What was I doing 10 years ago? 10 years ago I just turned 14, was adjusting to my new home of Newbury Park, CA, loathing Sequoia Middle School and after school marching band practice for the Conejo Valley Days parade of death.

2.Things On My To Do list: Actually go to the doctor today and finish the YW message board.

3. Bad Habits: Biting my nails, eating dessert after every meal, watching DVR instead of reading my books.

4. Places I have Lived: Port Hueneme, Woodland Hills, Newbury Park, Provo, Huntington Beach and Newport Beach

5. Things Most People Don't Know About Me: I get sick about once a month, I'm terrified of the dark and the deep ocean, I think realizing "cool or trendy" people/things are dumb is the secret to happiness with yourself, I'd live in the South in a heartbeat if my heart could stand it, and I knew I'd marry Robert long before our first date.

I tag: Anyone who reads this (but especially: Sara Doud, Natalie Fenn, Mofo and Kim Mays)

It's Saturday.

2009-03-14T09:09:00.001-07:00

It's Saturday morning and doing something productive doesn't seem to be on my list today, much to my husband's dismay--but he's out surfing so I don't feel so bad. And there is always the ever-so important update on my last weekend's birthday activities...

Since my birthday fell on a Sunday we decided to celebrate mostly on Saturday which began with me hacking up a lung in the morning because i was still sick. But then Robert whisked me away (doesn't that sound magical...)to Disneyland for breakfast! And we actually made it!! We have tried a few times to get out of the house early enough to make the 11am cut off...but this time we did it.

And if you're a pass holder and have never eaten at the Carnation Cafe, like us, well you need to because this Cinnamon Roll was gooey-delicious and the Mickey Mouse Waffle wasn't too bad either. We rode a few rides
And mostly got sad that this was our last non-blocked out Saturday for the rest of the summer! Wretched Deluxe status...but we will stay true Disney.

That evening we went out to meet with some friends at Ruby's where I at the most delicious club sandwich and fries, no salad, because it was my birthday, well kinda.

After we played a pretty intense game of Cranium back at our apartment...

The next day was my actual birthday and we went to church and after church we may or may not have gone to get my $69 in Disney money because they wouldn't give it to me one day early...

And that evening we had some of our newest besties over for a boys vs. girls trivial pursuit match...which for some reason I have no pictures of...oh well, you'll have to take my word for it that it was very good, considering I was able to say things such as "It's my birthday, roll the dice!"...magical.

halarious.

2009-03-11T12:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this commercial this morning and I couldn't stop laughing/almost crying. It is SO sweet.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9A2Ap3DyvLg

remember that time...

2009-03-04T12:05:00.000-08:00

that we got married. and then was about to celebrate our 4 month-iversary and realized we haven't sent out a single thank you card.

so this is my apology to the world...they are coming, someday I will write all 250 and I will send them.

they're really cute...I promise.

testing...1...2.

2009-02-20T12:13:00.000-08:00

Little bored, so I thought I'd test my knowledge of the husband:

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen? Family Guy or Lakers

2. Does he play an instrument? yes, piano and guitar.

3. What's one food he doesn't like? Brocoli, anything too green-tasting.

4. You go out to eat and have a drink. What does he order? Water and a hanburger or ribs or somethin.

5. Where did he go to high school? John F. Kennedy high school (the first one to be named after JFK, he'll tell you that.)

6. What size shoe does he wear? yikes... i always forget 10?

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be? He's not a pack rat, but it would be boxes of expensive things "just in case"

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? superbird, moons over myhammy, bacon burger from chili's...it's a long list really. oh and def meatball sub.

9. What would this person eat every day if he could? Chocolate Lindt truffles...and we do.

10. What is his favorite cereal? Raisin Bran Crunch

11. What would he never wear? anything that's uncomfortable. even if i beg and plead because tight jeans look good on him...

12. What is his favorite sports team? LA Lakers (duh.)

13. Who did he vote for? McCain

14. Who is his best friend? Me of course. Then there's Josh, Troy, Ryan, BP, Dave, The twins, Matty Dedrick, Aaron, Eric V., Nick...again, the lists very long.

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do? Leave every cupboard open because i hate the sound of it crashing closed.

16. What is his heritage? Half Finnish.

17. What is something he would do if he wasn't working his current job? Working at Toyota and/or looking for a new job. we LOVE Railpros!!

Well by-golly I'd say I did pretty darn good.

a week of love.

2009-02-16T09:20:00.000-08:00

So Valentine's day this year was by far my favorite. I mean, don't get me wrong it would've been better if it would've been minus a cold and plus some iced heart-shaped sugar cookies...but, well, it did ok.

Last week Robert and I did our early v-day/christmas present and braved the rain (speaking of which, why won't it go away??) in Hollywood to see Phantom of the Opera!

The show was really a blast from my past because my mother absolutely loves this show, so it was one of the many soundtracks to our Saturday morning chores...it was really amazing. The rain made us spend too much money to ride the metro 6 blocks...but I was in heels and that walk was not looking fun. The metro was also a blast from the past...but it was wonderful making new memories on it.

Fast forward to one week later and it was real Valentine's day...it really was a perfect day. It started out with going to the gym together-which i love because it's more fun that way. Then, after my shower, Robert was gone! Silly sneaky snuck off to get me and my mom flowers and lots of other goodies-including a maple-old fashioned donut from "O those donuts" which I wish I had right now...Then rushing around and cleaning because my mom was on her way (i also loved this because I like a clean house)! We went for an afternoon session at the Newport temple-it was my first time there and it is SO beautiful, my new favorite place in Orange County for sure.

Then it was to Balboa for some expensive 18year aged balsamic vinegar (I've never looked so forward to having a salad at my mom's house before), old-fashioned taffy and giant now-and-laters (my personal fav)...oh and don't forget gawking at all the beautiful homes and ultimately getting depressed on our lack of funds.

Chili's brought ribs, chips and white chocolate molten cake...the best combonation ever. A couple bitter games of Blokus later, it was time to call it a night.

And now i sit on my day off avoiding going outside. The rain, the wind whipping through the pine trees, it's so daunting! I haven't even made it to the gym yet...but like that's really saying anything. I hope everyone enjoyed their day of love.

the cold days.

2009-02-12T11:20:00.000-08:00

For as often as I get sick (which is approx. once a month) I've learned to handle it pretty well. Yes, it kills me to sit at home with a million things to be done around me and I haven't a lick of energy to do them, but letting myself be lazy is rare, so I sit and enjoy my hours of HGTV.

Not only this but the hours of sleep on top of not being able to eat anything but apples and cereal make my body lean as it ever can be--a stereotypical girl perk of getting sick. but yes I really do think these things.

But soon I cannot handle it any longer and not being able to cook dinner, Robert almost without fail takes me out somewhere to eat some scrumptious fat food, because I'm sick and the diet goes out the window.

Putting on my sloppiest outfit and lowering myself slowly into the car all for that plate of fettuccine alfredo and mozzerella appetizer, is so worth it.

Last night this tradition lived on as we had to use our coupon at Maggiano's for $20 off a purchase of $50 or more...I ordered a 'shirley temple' for the first time in a long time, and it was delectable. And we still have dinner for tonight too.

So being sick sucks...but being pampered by your husband does NOT.

But the Lakers lost to boo-tah...and that still sucks.

I'm still cool.

2009-01-21T11:49:00.000-08:00

So yesterday as I was moseying on into Albertson's to return our redbox movie (which I had unknowingly left in the car) a young man approached me. Now I have to explain the last time this happened in this very same parking lot it was a similar 18 or something looking kid (I can say kid because I'm married now) who had approached me and was trying to sell me hair products--which I probably needed. Anyways, on this trip as the kid approached me I tried to avoid eye contact as I often do and suddenly become def or non-English speaking. But all he needed was money for the bus...ugh. I couldn't turn him down, I knew I had some change wondering around the bottom of my purse from Robert and I's new "cash-allowance" program (helps me maintain my thrift store addictions), so really giving this kid some change would help both of us. So I scurry around my purse, quick to cover the $10 bill that was about to pop out and find a $1 bill and hand it to him. Now because this kid was a kid and fairly well dressed in his what I think was a pretty darn new Billabong hoodie, I did not get the typical "God bless" as I usually do in downtown L.A., oh no this kid looked at that $1 bill (after all he had just asked for some "change") and with bright eyes said, "Thanks! You're cool..." it was SO satisfying, you can't even imagine. And thus some 18 year old kid made my day.
Later after telling Robert my story I said, "I just hope he didn't go buy cigarettes with it." Robert's response, "nah, probably just candy."
Which is fine by me.

we are lakers fans.

2009-01-03T09:07:00.000-08:00

My only beef with the staples center: they don't serve salsa with their nachos just cheese, but they were still alright.

and it was SO close oh man SO close, no not the game BOO-tah was sunk by those Lakers they were ahead the whole time, thanks to Pau-whose name i thouroughly enjoy saying. But it was close on tacos. you see they have this thing at Staples Center where if the Lakers keep the other team under 100 than all attending get a coupon for 2 free tacos...but just in the last 30 seconds BOO-tah shot a 3 pointer putting them at exactly 100. where they stayed. grrr...don't they know what those greasey things mean to me? ugh i was already planning our victory pictures but now all you get is this.
final score 113 to 100, Lakers. next time i'm sitting next to Jack.

A Birthday and Christmas with the Williams.

2008-12-31T09:32:00.001-08:00

Robert opening up his birthday gift.
Lakers tickets! I'm a good wife.
Boston Creme Pie for the birthday boy...
we got to be Mary and Joseph at the Christmas pageant!
Oh Chwistmas twee...
Rach-b-natch. my neice.
Bella was reading me her new Christmas book...i loved every mis-pronounced word.
Livi taking good care of her cousin.
We've really been enjoying our new location on the bluff over Newport Bay and the cold weather...i can't believe it but i'm actually enjoying winter.

a year in review.

2008-12-30T13:44:00.000-08:00

2008 was GREAT, i can safely say it was the best year of my life so far...
January:

-moved into 7312 Waterside Drive and discovered what is was to live in a real house

-started my current occupation at Lieberman Research Worldwide (LRW), which has brought me many blessings-aka rescuing me from the retail world.
Februrary:
-Robert took me out for a nice Valentine's at the Harborside Restaurant in Newport Bay.
March:
-I turned 23-eek. and spent the day with family at my niece's 6th birthday party

-also the fateful month i decided to run a half marathon.

April:

-I ended my 5 year love affair with myspace. and was able to get selfish for once.

May:

-I ran a half marathon! (an accomplishment that is far our of my reach these days :()

-I also "graduated" (happy to say that picture is actually valid now)

June:

-I don't remember much from June besides being engulfed in Diet Mtn. Dew and seeing alot of these folks-who i do miss

July:

-the 4th was fun riding around on bikes and taking naps

-and who can ever forget the best surprise ever (well until a week later) WICKED!!

August:

-ENGAGER! (that was the one week later surprise of a lifetime)

September:

-I started my last semester at CSULB

-We threw my sister her bridal shower

October:

-I had my bridal shower

-My sister got married in Las Vegas on Halloween! such a great weekend!

November:

-I recieved my endowments :)

-and the WEDDING!! and the most perfect one ever if i do say so myself, the weather was hot just like the summer wedding i always wanted but i was able to use the fall colors i love! when i was changing out of my wedding dress at the end of the night i got sad...i didn't want to the day to end!

December:

-Robert turned 29! (secretly can't wait to plan his 30th birthday bash for next year!)

-our first Christmas and the returning of lots and lots of wedding gifts!

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

twitter-pated.

2008-12-14T16:58:00.000-08:00

No idea how to actually spell twitter-pated. but i am! We just got our pictures from the wedding back from Dre and holy canole I am so happy!! Here's one of my favs:Turns out i love weddings...not just mine.

the man of my dreams.

2008-12-05T09:22:00.000-08:00

it's amazing what marriage does. My mom made the comment a few days back that me and my sister both just look different since we got married. Like we're content and settled. and I owe this contentment to this guy:

this is a picture of Robert from my 22nd birthday, we had been together only a little over 2 months. Its fun to look back at that time and now really realize that he is officially forever mine. Back then it was just a "i know someday." but now it's i KNOW.

ok this post is way shmoopy. But i just love him. Happy almost 3 week-a-versary Roberto.

a few more for your enjoyment (or mine):

We were talking last night about us in high school, and if we had been in high school together if we would've liked each other. and we decided i would secretly like Robert because he was a good guy who didn't like any girls, therefore i would want him badly. But me, being the punk-rock princess i was would not openly like him but continue to date the losers i did. This made me realize how lucky i am to have gained the testimony i have to follow the straight and narrow so that Robert and i could be together. and now i can continue to grow into the woman he deserves. for this i am grateful.

Honeymooners.

2008-12-01T16:11:00.001-08:00

Ok here it goes, Maui Waui:
We got to our hotel just in time for the perfect Hawaiian sunset.
There were all sorts of birds and parrots and even African penguins just chillin everywhere.
Our first morning at the most delicious breakfast buffet ever.
Robert's first time in a Hawaiian ocean and it wasn't even that warm...or blue :/
Lazy.

YES even I went snorkling...and completed my Hawaii goal of seeing sea turtles! So many beautiful plants!

My first pizza buffet...and it was worth all 5 pounds.

Robert always raves about all the good food he ate in Brazil and Cane Juice was one of them so I def had to try it...again, totally worth it.
This is about 1 minute before Robert cut open his hand and toe...and yes he did trip because i had screamed and he was coming to rescue me :)

The Road to Hana.

The first of many stops to see a waterfall, it was so green and wet!
I was not the biggest fan of these signs.

i look angry, but he looks REALLY cute.
just drivin' by another beautiful waterfall...
Black Sand Beach!
Seven Sacred Pools!
Robert swimming for the waterfall in the pools.
Proof that i got in too.
Saying good-bye to the Hyatt...you were so good to us :(
We found another place to dip our feet on the way to the airport at the Iao State Park.
and it just happened to be absolutely gorgeous.

yes, I washed my hands in that sink.

finally, the saddest moment ever, waiting for our shuttle at the rental car place to take us to the airport and back to California...:(

all in all it was the PERFECT wedding and the PERFECT honeymoon...and now we're ready for the PERFECT Christmas!

on being married.

2008-11-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

it's tired in here.
and i thought waking up was hard before, now i have the most snuggly comfortable person right next to me every morning...the perfect excuse to not get of out bed.

I'm feeling sick today...and cold. so here is to unproductive work time:

1. How did you meet your spouse? First Sunday in Pierside ward...introduced by biz.

2. Where did you go on your first date? we ate dinner at chili's and went to Bella Terra to see "stranger than fiction" (2 years ago this friday!)

3. How long have you been together? 1 year 11 months.

4. Who eats more? no comment. ok ok, often it's me :/

5. Who said I love you first? he did! we fought about it for like a week before i finally pinned him down until he said it!

6. Who is taller? him, 6' vs. 5'6"

8. Who is smarter? oh him for sure.

9. Who does the laundry? so far i'm trying to...but he is very VERY helpful, so it's equal right now :)

10. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? He does, his surfboards are on that wall.

11. Who pays the bills? he does, except for my automatic bill pay.

12. Who mows the lawn? the groundskeeper in our apt. complex.

13. Who cooks dinner? i try to...he does alot too, and i think he's better than me.

14. Who drives when you are together? it's equal, we both hate driving. he'll drive if its raining, i HATE driving in the rain.

15. Who is more stubborn? me. grrrrrrrrrrrr..........

16. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? ummm i'd like to say this is equal, but he probably is.

17. Whose parents do you see the most? his they live close, although my mom does like to make the trek down here pretty often.

18. Who kissed who first? I KISSED HIM! booya.

19. Who proposed first? He did!

20. Who is more sensitive? me for sure.

21. Who has more friends? him for sure. not only did i get 11 new brothers and sisters...but there's about 10 pseudo-brothers on top of that. love it.

22. Who has more siblings? him. 11 vs. 4.

23. Who wears the pants in the family? well he wears pants more often. so i'd say him. and thats the way i like it :)

attacked.

2008-11-07T09:56:00.001-08:00

what boggles my mind is someone searching the internet for peoples blogs on prop 8 just to say very hurtful and angry things in their comment box. Really? How grown up is that? Everyone is entitled to their rights. I'm so over-saturated with this prop 8 stuff...I just want to live my life as a practicing LDS wife to be.

so yes, I am really glad prop 8 passed. and I'm not sorry.

p.s. this entry is in reaction to a comment some anonymous person posted on my entry in celebration of prop 8...it hurt, they reached into my personal life and tried to attack it. But no one is going to take me away from how much i love him and this gospel.

28 days.

2008-10-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

Crunch time. No literally. I'm trying to slim down a bit so I don't have to sneak out of the hotel room every morning in Maui to go run in their gym...I'm going to be on vacation, plus I don't think Rob will allow this.

thoughts of late: I was thinking this morning how being engaged to Robert is amazing. Then I also started thinking how the only real different feeling is that there is actually a date and end in sight of our single life. Then that made me realize that being with Robert for these past almost 2 years is alot like one big engagement time, just that for most of it I refrained from talking/thinking about it because it would just drive me crazy wanting it so bad. So all in all being engaged changes a few things, but it wasn't like a huge shocker that I was getting married because I have known that for the past almost 2 years. More just like, yes this is the right time for this now...I guess that's a sign. mint 2 Bee.

I got my petticoat in the mail yesterday, finally, then I realized in came from Hong Kong. I think that is so cool.

Our apartment=boxes everywhere. My bedroom=wedding stuff and clothes everywhere. My life=haven't done homework in a week. life is good.

53 days.

2008-10-01T13:30:00.000-07:00

I was going to wait the 53 days until we are officially husband and wife to use this blog, but Roberts away on business the next few days, and I am getting more and more pathetic.
First is my fear that something awful will happen to him now that he is so far from me being able to protect him, as if I could.
Second is the overwhelming aching my arms and legs feel everytime I think of holding him, knowing it just isn't going to happen today.
2 more days...Then the nostalgia sets in. I walked across to get some lunch today and passed the movie theatre, the smell of popcorn will forever remind me of date nights with Robert, which are seriously the best memories of my entire life.
There's also the undying need to live August 1st over and over and over again. This is the day we got engaged. we went for a hike to the golden gate bridge, we ate an amazing lunch. He popped the question and I cried for 3 hours. we ate ice cream and walked around the most beautiful city...seriously it was the most perfect day.
So one more semester at school that will fly by as my time is consumed with wedding details and I've already mapped out all my weekends dedicated to different projects.After this, I wish for time to be crystal clear, I'll be able to work and leave my work AT WORK and spend the rest of my time nuturing, caring and loving Robert.This is what i want. I cannot believe that this is what i have.
side note: birth control is the worst thing ever.

p.s. that top picture is of me doing the dishes when rob and i had only been dating like a month and i made him dinner for one of the first times. i like to think thats when he knew.