Our Journey Together

Eviction Notice....

2012-02-07T17:57:00.002-07:00

Well Baby.. you received your eviction notice a week ago but have not moved out yet. That's okay, but we can't wait to meet you. Tomorrow night (Wed 2/8) we go in and start to be induced.. perhaps you already know this and are planning a surprise for us this evening. While schedule wise, tomorrow night is better for Dad.. we would prefer for you to come out on your own.

I went to the doctor's today and they did a stress test to monitor your heart rate and any contractions that I may have been having - none! Gigi joined us at the doctor and was so excited that we also got an ultrasound to get a peek at you. The fluid levels look good and the placenta is at a 2... we don't want it to be a 3. But that just means that it's time to join the world.

I finished hanging up items in your nursery last night so it feels like a nursery now - not just a room of baby stuff.

We love you Baby and can't wait to meet you!

PS- for some reason, I'm now thinking that you're a boy! Who knows, but I initially thought girl and now I'm thinking boy.

DUE DATE - 40 Weeks

2012-02-02T14:48:00.003-07:00

How far along? 40 Weeks and still pregnant. We go to the doctor in the morning and he'll check to see if I'm dilated and if there is any progress yet. He may do a small procedure: stripping the membranes (google it) to help start labor and we'll set a date for me to be induced - probably no later than next Thursday!

Size of the baby? Baby weighs 7.5lbs and is approx 20 inches long - about the size of a mini watermelon

Maternity Clothes? Oh yes! There are still a few non-maternity stuff that I can wear, but that's getting pretty limited

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? All the time- I love watching my belly move with the Baby

Labor Signs? I'm in pre-labor.. meaning I'm having contractions but nothing constant or would make me think that I need to start timing them. The hospital bags are packed, my Dad is in town, and we are ready any day now!

To add to the symptoms from last time: my feet are super swollen. I only have 2 pairs of shoes that I can wear to work and neither fit great. They leave my feet with marks where the water has been pushed elsewhere. My weight is fluctuating anywhere from 3.5 - 5 lbs from the beginning of the day to the end (yikes!). I'm starting to feel some contractions, but they are not strong nor are they consistent.

Sleep? I toss and turn a lot now and waking at least once a night to pee. I miss sleep and can't wait to sleep on my stomach again

Cravings? Not really - my sweet tooth continues.

Symptoms? See above for more ... Baby has dropped some and my acid reflux was doing much better but it has returned

Exercise? Haven't been able to get that in

Weight Gain? More than I care to admit - 33 - 35 lbs.

Best Moment of the Week? Nana and Mom made us some amazing yummy frozen food for after Baby arrives. I'm so thankful that they did this for us. Nana made Beef Stroganoff, Cranberry Chicken, and pasta sauce with meatballs and sausage!! Mom made Chili, and Chicken Enchiladas. I love that our family is helping to keep us fed.

My Dad and Richard put together the bookshelves I got for Christmas and they look great. So thankful they were able to do that before Baby arrives. Now I can start to organize the shelves and make our front room look more put together.

39 Weeks

2012-01-27T14:38:00.002-07:00

How far along? 39 Weeks and 1 Day

Size of the baby? Baby weighs 7lbs and is approx 20 inches long - about the size of a mini watermelon

Maternity Clothes? Oh yes! There are still a few non-maternity stuff that I can wear, but that's getting pretty limited

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? All the time- I love watching my belly move with the Baby

Sleep? I toss and turn a lot now and waking at least once a night to pee. I miss sleep and can't wait to sleep on my stomach again

Cravings? Cookies

Symptoms? Baby has dropped some and my acid reflux was doing much better but it has returned

Exercise? Haven't been able to get that in

Weight Gain? More than I care to admit - 33lbs. My weight jumped this last week by ~4lbs. I'm retaining much more water and my ankles are very swollen. I will say that I usually don't eat before my doctor's appointment, but I did today - so that may account for some of the gain - but definitely not all of it. The doctor seemed a little worried at first and did a few additional little tests but didn't see anything that would raise concern - most likely just water.

Best Moment of the Week? We finished our baby class last night and graduated. I think we both feel about as prepared as we can at this point.

37 Weeks = FULL TERM

2012-01-16T09:58:00.003-07:00

How far along? 37 Weeks and 4 Days

Size of the baby? Baby weighs 6.3lbs and is approx 19 inches long - and I'm definitely running out of room. I'm at the uncomfortable stage.

Maternity Clothes? Oh yes! There are still a few non-maternity stuff that I can wear, but that's getting pretty limited

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? All the time- I love watching my belly move with the Baby

Labor Signs? Braxton-Hicks contractions are now a normal part of my day. I've had maybe 1-2 true contractions, but nothing to get excited about.

Sleep? I toss and turn a lot now. And waking at least once a night to pee. I really didn't do this early on in pregnancy, so this is a new (and not so great) thing. I love sleep. Once I'm up it takes me up to 2 hours to fully fall back to sleep so this momma is tired!

Cravings? Back to Mexican and sweets!

Symptoms? I got some relieve this week.. Baby has started to drop (visibly so) and thus my acid reflux is much better - but I'm still tired of dealing with it

Exercise? At least once a week

Weight Gain? 28-30 lbs (yikes) but right on track!

Best Moment of the Week? These last 2 weekends were filled with baby showers and we feel beyond blessed and loved.. and a little intimidated. We cannot believe how generous our family and friends are - we got almost everything that we need any anything else we can get as we need it (bottles, mainly). Dad and Jen came in for the shower as well and we loved getting to see them again - it means so much to us that they flew out for the shower. Next time we see Jen we'll have a little one for her to meet :)

I love seeing Rich's reactions to everything. He seems to be getting more and more excited (and overwhelmed). He wanted to take inventory last night of all the baby items and he gets really excited and cute when going through everything. He has been a super-stud of a supporter... he took my mom to get some final things for the baby yesterday which I am so appreciative for since I had to work.

35 Weeks - Christmas and New Year's Recap

2012-01-01T09:22:00.003-07:00

Happy New Year's! We spent the evening at my Mom's house and celebrated a bit early .. I was le tired! So we were home and just finished brushing our teeth at midnight then off to bed! We're fun like that.. ha! We're planning on a games night tonight and we'll do our new year's predictions as well. I'm excited to see what everyone said last year for the predictions!

How far along? 35 Weeks

Size of the baby? Baby weighs 5.25lbs and is approx 18.1 inches long - and I'm definitely running out of room. I'm at the uncomfortable stage. Feet are swollen and sitting removes any extra space that there may be left in there. But only 5 more weeks - I can do that!

Maternity Clothes? Oh yes! There are still a few non-maternity stuff that I can wear, but that's getting pretty limited

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? All the time- I love watching my belly move with the Baby

Sleep? I toss and turn a lot now. And waking at least once a night to pee. I really didn't do this early on in pregnancy, so this is a new (and not so great) thing. I love sleep

Cravings? Back to Mexican and sweets!

Symptoms? Acid reflux.. still. I'm really getting tired of dealing with it

Exercise? At least once a week

Weight Gain? 24-25 lbs (yikes)

Best Moment of the Week? It has been a great few weeks. Dad and Jen were here for Christmas and we spent many evenings with them. Then we celebrated Christmas with Rich's family and then at my Mom's house with that side of the family. This year Rich's Dad joined us for Christmas and I truly enjoyed having him there with us. We've made great progress on the nursery (thanks Mom and Rich!) and now I only have to add decor to the walls. For Christmas, I got many great gifts, one of which included gift cards to IKEA - so we bought 4 bookshelves yesterday for the house ... so excited to put them together and get the completed feel in the house.

Happy New Year Everyone!

32 Weeks with Photos(!) & Thanksgiving re-cap

2011-12-08T09:00:00.006-07:00

More pictures are below - but here is a comparison of some points throughout my pregnancy:

Holy Cow! I cannot believe that we have only 8 weeks before meeting Baby!

For Thanksgiving this year, Rich and I flew out to see my dad and Jen. A great trip and no issues on the plane with baby! The doctor had me take a children's aspirin before the flight to thin my blood and Rich let me have the aisle seat so that I could get up and walk during the flight. With his long legs - that was very nice of him to do :) Have I mentioned just how great my husband is! He's everything I could ever want. Dad grilled the turkey again and it was as moist as ever - Jen made her "nasties" (mashed potatoes) which are truly fabulous! We had all the traditional fixings and loved every bite.

The semester is finally winding down for Rich and after next week, he won't be so crazy with school! Perhaps we can start talking baby names and getting the nursery more in order. We're having his graduate student colleges over on Saturday night for a little Christmas get together - so I've been decorating, baking cookies, and now I just need to clean the house so that it feels more presentable.

Ok the 32 week update:

How far along? 32 Weeks

Size of the baby? Baby weighs 3.75lbs and is approx 16.7 inches long.

Maternity Clothes? Oh yes! There are still a few non-maternity stuff that I can wear, but that's getting pretty limited

Gender? Surprise! Although my Nana is claiming that we know Baby's sex and are not sharing (haha!) I promise - we don't know. I couldn't keep that a secret.

Movement? All the time- I love watching my belly move with the Baby

Sleep? Not great, but it could always be worse

Cravings? Pears! Those have recently become a favorite - though they have to be soft and juicy

Symptoms? Acid reflux.. still. I'm really getting tired of dealing with it

Exercise? At least once a week

Weight Gain? 21-22 lbs (yikes) - I go to the doctor tomorrow and will get a true amount

Best Moment of the Week? I've had many good moments this week - but decorating the Christmas tree with Rich was definitely my favorite!

25 Weeks

26 Weeks

27 Weeks

28 Weeks and Baby's first wedding!

29 Weeks

Thanksgiving - 30 weeks

31 Weeks!

29 Weeks and Birthday!

2011-11-17T14:21:00.002-07:00

I'll update later with pics, but I shouldn't use the excuse that I haven't taken the 29 week pic yet to not write this. I want to have this to look back on a remember my pregnancy.

In approximately 11 weeks, we'll meet Baby - I'm so excited and very much at peace about being a mommy. I took a class this week about breast pumps and decided that I want this one: Medela Pump-In Style. This will probably appear on my/Baby's Christmas list. At approx $260, it's not cheap, but since I'll be going back to work full-time it will be worth it. I also learned about nursing bras and tanks and holy cow.. there is a lot of stuff that you need for breastfeeding.

Okay - weekly (aka whenever I remember) update

How far along? 29 Weeks

Size of the baby? Baby weighs 2.5lbs and is approx 15 inches long.

Maternity Clothes? Yep - maternity pants are nice and comfy! I got some awesome shirts for my birthday despite saying I didn't want clothes ... very happy that my mom didn't listen to that :) I really enjoy feeling like I look cute with the bump and new/nice clothes are a way to do that!

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? All the time - Baby kicks and moves like a rockstar. We had a doc's appointment this week and Baby's head is already down and will probably not move from there! I noticed last night that my tummy was starting to feel tight - as though I'm running out of room, so I'm sure I'll be growing lots more in the next 2..5 months. I've noticed that there isn't enough space between my belly and the steering wheel to put items such as the muffin plastic when I grab a muffin for breakfast

Sleep? Not as great recently due to a bad cold and acid reflux

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux.. still.

Exercise? I'm still getting a few times a week in

Weight Gain? 18 lbs - right on track

Best Moment of the Week? A busy couple of weeks - Baby was in their first wedding: Krista got married!! My b-day is tomorrow so we've been enjoying family time and birthday cake! I got some good work done in the nursery, though I still have a long way to go - starting felt good.

Update - Week 26.5

2011-10-31T09:33:00.002-06:00

How did I miss week 25 and almost 26! Yikes!! Not that excuses are okay, but we've been going through quarter close at work, so I've been working a bit longer than normal.

How far along? 26 week, 4 days

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 1 2/3 pounds and is approx 14 inches long. From my weekly email:

"Baby may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. Baby's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when Baby's born and takes that first gulp of air. And Baby is continuing to put on baby fat."

Maternity Clothes? Yep - though I'm still rocking some non-maternity shirts

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? YES!! Richard felt Baby move for the first time last night. He had really been wanting to feel Baby and hadn't been able to for the last 3 weeks. So we were going to bed and I thought I felt a little kick so I grabbed Richard's hand and put it on my belly and we just relaxed for a few minutes and Baby started kicking!! They were the biggest kicks I've felt yet. So glad that Richard was able to feel our baby.

Sleep? I've always loved to sleep and that hasn't changed.

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux :(

Exercise? I'm still getting twice a week in - I need to work on taking walks in the evening when it's nice outside

Weight Gain? ... I think about 15 lbs (according to my scale at home). We go back to the docs in 2 weeks so we'll find out then.

Best Moment of the Week? Richard getting to feel Baby kick!

Pregnancy Update - 23 weeks - ish

2011-10-11T13:38:00.007-06:00

Okay, so I missed last weeks posting.. mostly on purpose. I had a doctors appointment so I though I would wait until after then to update. Doctors report looks good. Belly is measuring at 25 weeks (totally okay) and Baby's heart rate is still fast but perfectly normal :) I also feel like my belly has truly popped! I'm kicking myself for forgetting to take a 22 week pic, but the comparison of 21 weeks to 23 weeks shows the pop-age, see:

21 weeks

23 wks

24 weeks

On the sad note - I gained 7 lbs!! Yes, I know I'm supposed to gain weight - I'm pregnant, but 7lbs in 4 weeks = too much! I should be gaining at about 1 pound per week, so it's back to focusing on eating healthy while making sure myself and Baby are getting the nutrition that we need. It also doesn't help that I'm in the middle of quarter close so not able to workout. New goal - try to improve that. Step 1 - I went to the office gym during lunch today .. and it felt great! I can just tell that I haven't worked out in a week - all my muscles wanted to move and be worked. It was just a short workout, but better than nothing!

Okay - on to the weekly stats (which are really more for me to remember points along the way)

How far along? 23 week, 5 days

Size of the baby? Baby weighs just over 1 pound, is over 11 inches long (thanks baby email for being so precise, not). Total weight gain for me = 15lbs (per the doctor), 12 lbs (per my scale at home).

Maternity Clothes? Oh yeah! Maternity pants are actually really comfortable! I can also wee why women get stuck wearing "mom" jeans with the really high waist - all my pregnancy pants are over the belly so I'm getting used to something there.

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? Definitely feeling little movements - feels like bubbles in my belly.

Sleep? I've always loved to sleep and that hasn't changed.

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux :(

Exercise? None last week, I failed! But I did do 30 mins on the elliptical today during lunch.

Weight Gain? See above :(

Best Moment of the Week? My Dad was in town and I got to spend some great time with him. He's planning on being here for 3-4 weeks around the time that Baby is due! So excited that he'll be here to meet his grand-baby rather than us having to call to tell him.

2011-09-30T11:23:00.002-06:00

Picture now change from a different fruit weekly to monthly.

How far along? 22 week, 2 days

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 1 pound (no more ounces here), is 11 inches long, and is starting to looks like a miniature newborn. I think I've gained about 10 lbs thus far.

Maternity Clothes? Oh yeah! I'm getting what I can out of pre-preg pants but I really can't fit into most of them.

Gender? Surprise!

Movement? Definitely feeling little movements. Baby seems to move the most in early afternoon right after lunch.

Sleep? I've always loved to sleep and that hasn't changed.

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux :(

Exercise? I'm doing Zumba twice a week and trying to walk as well.

Weight Gain? Up another pound - 9lbs to date.

Best Moment of the Week? I was so good and didn't peek! Richard and I have started separate baby name lists and we'll compare when we're done. I have no idea where he's keeping his list and I don't go through his stuff, so its safe as long as her doesn't leave it out.. if he does though, that will be a test of my self-discipline. I can't wait until we compare lists to get Baby's possible names picked out.

Picture update - I'm a slacker and forgot to take on this morning. Great American Beer Festival is tonight, so tonight a photo probably won't happen. No worries though - I'm not drinking, I'm just going to hang out with the Sis, K, Richard, and other friends.

21 Weeks

2011-09-23T10:42:00.002-06:00

How far along? 21 weeks

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 12.7 oz and is 10.5 inches long. I think it's odd that the sizing comparison people say that a banana is larger than a cantaloupe. Maybe length wise, I'll buy it, but not weight-wise.

Maternity Clothes? Yep...work pants no longer fit so I'm rocking the bella band since the sale at a maternity store doesn't start until Monday. I can still wear some pre-pregnancy shirts.

Gender? Surprise! I had a dream about baby this week and what we named baby.

Movement? Definitely feeling little movements. Baby seems to move the most in early afternoon right after lunch.

Sleep? I've always loved to sleep and that hasn't changed.

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux :(

Exercise? I'm doing Zumba twice a week and trying to walk as well.

Weight Gain? Up another pound - 9lbs to date.

Best Moment of the Week? I picked up a baby name book at the library and it was HORRIBLE! Some of the names in the book were terrible - Greek Gods... yea - not a baby name. So I returned that book and grabbed 4 more and am having much better luck.

Half-Time ... 20 weeks

2011-09-15T11:05:00.003-06:00

Updated 9/16/2011 to add 19 & 20 week photos below

How far along? 20 weeks (HALF WAY!!)

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 10.5 oz and is 6.5 inches long (crown to rump) or 10 inches long (crown to heel). Apparently how they measure baby changes this week.

Maternity Clothes? Yep... I've had trouble getting into work pants this week, so I'm officially wearing maternity pants today. Shirts are still pre-prego shirts. (What are your thoughts on the term prego? I have days I love it and days I don't)

Gender? Surprise ... We had a bbq this past weekend and lots of people gave their guesses. Overwhelmingly, people think its one sex over the other.

Movement? I was having a mild cramp yesterday and was pushing on my tummy and someone pushed back!

Sleep? I've always loved to sleep and that hasn't changed.

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux :(

Exercise? I'm doing Zumba twice a week and trying to walk as well.

Weight Gain? I moved the scale this week and forgot to check, but as of last week I've gained 8 lbs.

Best Moment of the Week? Hospital tour last night. We're trying to figure out which one we want to deliver since we have 2 great choices near-by. Holy cow there are so many things to remember. We were definitely the least pregnant there last night. I kinda felt like I was intruding and didn't below since I was so much further behind the other moms-to-be. We definitely prefer to have lots of research under our belt so we can make a decision.

19 week photo

20 Weeks!

20 weeks again

19 Week & Doctor Update

2011-09-09T16:28:00.002-06:00

I'm gonna start off by saying that we love our Doc! So glad I asked a friend for a recommendation. He's great to work with and always in a good mood. He is genuinely happy to see us when we come in.

How far along? 19 Weeks, 2 days

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 7.5 oz and is 16 cm (~6 inches) long. Baby is definitely taking after his/her Daddy ... long and skinny! Baby's femur is measuring a little bigger than 20 weeks while head and belly are measuring at 18 weeks, 6 days... so the average is right where I'm at.

Maternity Clothes? Good shopping trip with my momma & sista last weekend to the outlets and got some good maternity clothing. I'm still wearing non-maternity shirts since the style works well with pregnancy and pants that were big before are TIGHT. I'm still wearing them, but you'll find with them un-buttoned a lot if I don't have a bella-band on.

Gender? We'll let you know in February! Based on the reliable old wives tale our doc told us today, since the heart-rate is 153 it's a girl. According to the wives tale, over 140bpm = girl, under 140bpm = boy. See how scientific is that? HA! I'll wait and see.

Movement? I'm not feeling too much, though based on very mild cramping I guessed the baby was more on my right side. From the ultrasound today, baby is more on my right side and is SUPER active. Richard tells me that in a few weeks I'll be wishing that I wasn't feeling the baby as much.

Sleep? still awesome!

Cravings? Not really.

Symptoms? Acid reflux :( and some forgetfulness.

Exercise? I'm doing Zumba twice a week and trying to walk as well.

Weight Gain? We're a little split on where I started. My scale at home shows 2 lbs lighter than the docs, so total weight gain is 6-8lbs. 4 lbs since my 13 week visit! I didn't gain anything from 9-13 weeks, so I was happy to see 4 lbs today!

Best Moment of the Week? Seeing Baby on the ultrasound and hearing Baby's heartbeat for the first time. I'll admit I was a bit giddy this morning before the appointment to see the baby. I'm truly amazed at how much the baby is growing and I love seeing the growth from appointment to appointment.

I'll have to take one later and add it. I forgot to last night and the cats were having an all out WWE match this morning so I got distracted. It was the funniest thing, I went downstairs to break it up since Richard was sleeping and Nahla was screaming and Khan's fur was literally flying everywhere. It looked like something out of a comic.

19 Weeks Today

2011-09-08T17:03:00.002-06:00

Officially, we;re 19 weeks today! However, I'm going to wait until after the doc appointment to update so that we have more official stats.

I hope Baby is modest tomorrow during the ultrasound. We wanna wait until b-day to see if Baby is a boy or girl....

18 Weeks

2011-09-01T10:02:00.004-06:00

I'm adding a few more categories than before below.

How far along? 18 Weeks

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 7 oz and is about 5.5 inches long.

Maternity Clothes? Definitely right in between still. I think I'm in the stage where I just look fat as opposed to pregnant. I've noticed that the belly is more defined when I where dresses vs pants though.

Gender? We'll let you know in February!

Movement? No big movements this week. Occassionally at night I feel a little, but not much

Sleep? ..is great. I just want more of it.

Cravings? Nothing new here - sweets and Mexican!

Symptoms? Ok.. I'll admit it.. I'm getting a little forgetful at times.

Exercise? I'm doing Zumba twice a week and trying to walk as well. We went to the pool on Saturday which involved more reading than swimming, but I got some exercise in there too!

Best Moment of the Week? It was a really good week. Mom & G finished painting the baseboards in the nursery, we went stoller/car seat shopping because Babies R Us is having a sweet sale if you bring in an old car seat. We didn't decide on anything, but I feel like we're getting close to deciding. I tried on some maternity clothes with a friend and found a dress for a wedding I'm in come November. We also went to see Les Miserables last night and I loved it! They re-did the whole set/staging from when I saw it probably 10 years ago and it looks great. Wow.. that was a busy week!

18 weeks - Please ignore the mess in the background! It was late and I was too tired to straighten. Confession - I forgot to take a 17 week photo (oops!)

Because I forgot to add them a while ago - here are some of the ultrasound pics:

13 weeks - you can really see babies teeth, spine, and fingers. I think baby may be sucking his/her thumb here, but not sure.

10 weeks - first doctors visit 7/5/11!

Week 17 - With Belly Pics

2011-08-25T13:31:00.003-06:00

How far along? 17 Weeks

Size of the baby? Baby weighs about 5 oz and is about 5 inches long. Last week the weekly update said that baby was about to start a growth spurt and man o'man baby did just that. I can't get enough sleep. Every night this week, I've gone home and taken a little nap or just laid down for 20 mins.

Maternity Clothes? No change from last week - I'm still holding out. I've borrowed a few pairs of pants from my mom since we're about the same size but she still has some that will work. I've also borrowed some shirts from her!

Gender? We'll let you know in February!

Movement? I think I felt a little movement the other night while going to bed. I felt something that I've never felt before so that must be baby, right?

Sleep? ..is great. I just want more of it.

Cravings? Sweets and wanting to bake. I haven't done any baking, just have the desire .. maybe some zucchini bread is in my future with all the stuff from the garden.

Symptoms? Ok.. I'll admit it.. I'm getting a little forgetful at times.

Best Moment of the Week? Feeling the baby move!

13 weeks

14 Weeks

(Pretend you see a 15 week photo... it's on a different camera)

16 Weeks

17 Weeks - I haven't taken one yet.. so you'll just have to wait :)

Week 16 Update

2011-08-18T09:59:00.002-06:00

It's Thursday, so that means a weekly update:

How far along? 15 Weeks

Size of the baby? About the size of an avocado and about to start a growth spurt

Maternity Clothes? Still holding out. I've borrowed a few pairs of pants from my mom since we're about the same size - so I raided her closet for a few of the slightly bigger pants she has... I forgot how many of the same work pants we have. I guess the same great taste my mom has didn't pass me up.

Gender? We'll let you know in February!

Movement? Nothing yet. Supposedly some women can start to feel their baby at 16 weeks - but not me.

Sleep? ..is great. I just want more of it.

Cravings? Muffins! It drove me nuts yesterday b/c the cafeteria had closed all the breakfast items by the time the craving came around, so I waited patiently and went to Kings after work (and only ate 1 of the 4 muffins I bought). I've also been craving bad Mexican food, not the good stuff, but the bean burrito with cheese type of stuff.

Symptoms? None.. though Richard says I'm starting to get "mush brain." I don't buy that

Best Moment of the Week? Not baby related, but catching up with friends I haven't seen in WAY to long. Loved getting drinks with the ladies (them = beer, me = shirley temple, what? can't I enjoy a pink fruity beverage too). Oh yeah, we got our cameras back from my sis who borrowed them last week. SO... that means I can actually download the pics on there to share.. think weekly baby bump pics that don't really look like I have much of a bump :)

15 Week Update

2011-08-11T09:25:00.002-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How far along? 15 Weeks

Size of the baby? My weekly baby update says baby is 4 inches long and weighs 2.5 ounces - about the size of an apple!

Maternity Clothes? Not quite yet. My pants are getting a little snug in the tummy, but I'm holding out as long as possible.

Gender? We'll let you know in February!

Movement? Nothing yet. In our last ultasound at 13 weeks, we could see the baby sucking his/her thumb.

Sleep? ..is great. I just want more of it.

Cravings? My sweet tooth has been kicked into high gear. I'm trying to subdue it with grapes and other natural sugars to be more healthy for baby.

Symptoms? I'm one of the lucky ones and haven't had any true symptoms - Richard is getting all of them for me. He's eating like he's 16 again and has nausea anytime I feel a little nausea.

Best Moment of the Week? My mom and Richard painted the nursery! It was a baby boy blue because the people we bought the house from were having a baby boy, but the room never really fit us. Now the neutral color makes the room feel more like us. I can't wait to really get things set up - though we'll wait for a while, we still have 6 months to go!

A Little Catch-up and Announcement

2011-08-11T09:04:00.002-06:00

Hey All!

It's been a while... so let's do a little re-cap of the last year, shall we? Bullet format of course because I like that:

- We met G's new boyfriend (we'll call him K) and loved him. He came to our annual CU vs CSU football BBQ and fit right in. Richard realized just how much he missed having another male in the family when we were all hanging out. He loves my Dad, but we rarely see him.

- Our best man's wedding in northern New York. Right on the lake. Beautiful... a little chilly, and a little early to see the fall leaves of the east coast (bucket list item for both of us).

- We flew to Chicago to celebrate my Dad's marriage to J! We love J and I especially love how happy she makes my dad. They fit well together. Only problem is her job is in the Chicago area - so we don't see them as often as I'd like. They do come out a few times a year and I love that :) While out there I think we became the CRAZY Colorado family (think car bombs, my Dad's first, and other shots)

- Thanksgiving in Mexico!

- Christmas at home with family. We've kept our Christmas Day visiting to 3 locations and think we're finally figuring out how to manage all our family and adopted families. I say adopted b/c Richard has many families from his childhood who are like sudo-parents and we continue to be close with.

- January - May = Busy season. I don't remember too much (haha!) but did decide that I could not do another one. I miss my life/friends/family too much.

- Mid February, K tells me that he has a travel request for Richard and I. I also need to help distract G so K and my mom can go shopping together.. thinking bling yet?? They got engaged!!

- Crazy auntie week! My mom's sisters are amazing women with vibrant personalities. When you get them all together it's craziness that we LOVE, so whenever they come to visit, we dub the week - Crazy Auntie Week. Lots of cards are played, laughter laughed, life lived, and a few bottles of Crown Royal are drank.

- Job changes - both of us and both ultimately good, but we're still waiting to see some of the good.

- And last of all...... We're Pregnant! Baby B is due to arrive 2/2/2012.

Freedom and Beauty

2010-07-06T08:55:00.002-06:00

This weekend Hub and I were chatting and somehow we got on the subject of weight (for about 3 mins max). Richard as always weighed less than me so I've never really openly shared my weight with him. Since we got married, he's added a few pounds (so have I), but I still out-weigh him.

Anyway... this weekend I told him my weight. I'm not proud of it and want it to be different, but telling him made me feel so FREE! And his reaction made me feel more beautiful then ever:

Him: "You weight what? That's not possible"

Me: "yep, it's true"

Him: "where do you hide it?"

Me: I just smiled, knowing that my husband is absolutely amazing!

Letters to Me

2010-07-02T11:15:00.002-06:00

I'm joining the bandwagon that a saw on one of the blogs I enjoy - Letters to Me.

Dear Sara (age 3):

You're a new big sister. Help mom out and as your sister grows pick on her less. She'll be your best friend before you know it.

Dear Sara (age 10):

You're going to get glasses this year. Please look in the mirror before picking them out. You once thought they were cool, but you'll learn that you REALLY miss being able to see without them. Oh yea - they don't make you look like a dork nor do they define you as one. Be your own person. And remember to Laugh often!

Dear Sara (age 11):

Welcome to middle school! Warning - it sucks and you hate it - but you do well in school. You'll get your first visit from Aunt Flo' the first week of middle school and Mom will be out of town. I know it's embarrassing to ask Dad to take you to the store, but he'll do it and you live through it. PLEASE don't start trying to shape your eyebrows on your own. It will be a disaster and you'll spend years trying to get them to look right. Tell your parents you love them more! You'll start to notice boys in the next few years. You don't need them - focus more on cultivating your friendships. Laugh often!

Dear Sara (age 16):

Your driving! Remember to always turn on your headlights at night (you escape that ticket, but it's rather embarrassing). You're more of a homebody and you love to spend time with your family. Your parents will worry that you don't have friends or a good hobby and will suggest you take flying lessons. You love it, but can't seem to shake the motion sickness. Enjoy the flights, but know when it's time to quit. You have a great group of friends - spend more time with the girls developing the friendship - the boys will fade throughout the next few years. Laugh often!

Dear Sara (age 18):

Off to collage. Please try to release your grip over everything and not be so controlling. Make friends with the girls in your hall. You'll regret that you never got close to anyone. That boy (you know who), please don't spend to much time with him. He'll hurt your heart. Even though his actions do not match his words - he will hurt you and you'll feel like you wasted your time and will carry that scar into the future. Laugh often!

Dear Sara (age 20):

Take the job! You'll gain great experience and meet the man who you will fall head over heels for. Enjoy this time. It's the best summer of your life. Laugh often!

Dear Sara (age 21):

You're intuition is correct - in June your parents will announce that they are getting a divorce and have been "separated" for the past 9 months. Yes, they hide it very well. Lean on your boyfriend and be there for your sister. It's okay to grieve this divorce and you need to. Laugh often!

Dear Sara (age 24):

This is a big year for you. You got engaged last summer and couldn't be happier. It was a great move to move in with mom before you get married as you'll be able to buy a house. You get married this year. As your planning the wedding, stick to your wants and take care of telling people what needs to be told early! It will save you many headaches in the future. The wedding is beautiful. For pictures, don't hold the back of your dress because you don't want it to get dirty or wet (it rains that day by the way, but clears up for your ceremony and pictures) - you'll wish you did in the future. Laugh often!

New Learnings of Marriage

2010-04-04T21:28:00.003-06:00

During the last 3 months, its been busy season for me. Which means a minimum of 11 hour days but really more like 13-14 hours, so my time with Richard has been limited to the 15 minutes after I get home in the evenings before I crash from exhaustion and any weekend time that isn't filled with other commitments. We are ready for a vacation!! but more on that soon....

This weekend while talking with my family, Richard mentioned how hard it has been on him to not have me around in the evenings. I think I knew this in the back of my mind - but wow, I hadn't really considered it. I've been too busy trying to get through the week to see the light at the end of the busy season tunnel, that I missed this important aspect. Last year, while we were living together busy season didn't really affect us. Since we moved into the house in March, then I traveled for 2 straight weeks, we didn't miss out routine b/c we didn't have one. Since we hadn't lived together before, there was no missing the other in the evenings. This year has been a whole different story: now we've become used to making dinner together, playing with the cats, and watching some re-run, or Big Bang Theory (LOVE that show!!) Richard put it great tonight - it's almost like we have to re-learn eachother every week and re-establish our routines. So now I'm pondering how to be a wife first, then an auditor?

We've done really well with having a weekly date night - just us! Spend some time together discussing our weeks and what's going on in the world that we live.

Richard did mention that this year has been harder b/c there are joint decisions that need to me made and with me not around in the evenings and unavailable during the days to chat on the phone, it has been tough. Add to that, that we're both exhausted on the weekends. If I don't have to work on Saturday, then its the cleaning and chores around the house that need to be done.

I have to say though, my husband is amazing! He takes care of me and the house in ways that I don't necessarily notice and for that, I am greatly appreciative.

How do people have time for jobs and families? Gosh, we've both pondered what life will look like when we're ready to be parents... its a ways off, but pondering.

On a happy note - we've booked our 1st Anniversary trip to Europe! My mom is incredibly generous and donated miles for us to use to get over there. So we're going to Paris , Prague and Rome! We both so desperately need a vacation!

Christmas Time is Here

2009-12-23T13:19:00.003-07:00

(Not my house, nor my tree)

Merry Christmas!

We've almost finished all the shopping and wrapping and are looking forward to the days ahead spent with Family. I think we've finally got the schedule nailed down and it doesn't look too horrific!

Christmas Eve Day:

Good family friends - Richard is really just another one of their kiddos!
StepDad-in-laws' sisters' party! - should be a good time with good peps

Christmas Day:

Home - just us to start. We are newlyweds! and want to relax a little. I'm thinking a nice breakfast together and then presents... of course the cats will want to play
Grandma D's - Richard's mom's side of the fam
Philip & Teresita's house - Richard's dad's side of the fam and other good fam friends
My Nana & Boo's house - My Mom's side of things

Day After Christmas:

Hockey game with Dad and Jen to celebrate with them!

This year we bought an artificial tree - 9 feet tall, LARGE diameter, and multi-colored lights! I love(d) it. But didn't realize how big the base was until after we put it up (oops - sorry honey). We loved it for the first 5 minutes - until the first strand of lights went out, unlighting the entire tree -- my BRAND NEW tree. So we went with it. It was only at the bottom and if I just bipassed that strand, the tree would light. Then a second strand went out - right in the mid-section of the tree. Sad day.

So after Christmas (since I want it up for Christmas), we'll be returning the tree, getting a full refund and then trying again. Perhaps there will be some good clearance trees?? If not, there is always next year!

What are your plans?

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-11-23T14:57:00.002-07:00

Thanksgiving this year is a first for us ... both as a married couple and as I experience the effects of newly divorced parents with one now living in another state. So we're going to Chicago and we're bring my sister along with us. Looks like the weather will be decent (for Chicago in November) and we're excited to see the city and Dad's new diggs out there.

We'll be doing the traditional Thanksgiving dinner and seeing the city, but other than that - really no plans. I hope to have a restful trip so that I can return to work refreshed and ready to hit up busy season! Richard NEEDS the break from school. We're not even bringing our computers so there will be minimal temptation for either of us to work :)

A little list of things I'm thankful for this year:
-Richard
-Getting all our wedding photos (it took a long time, but I just ordered an album)
-The love of family and friends
-My new computer (LOVE IT)
-The house ... even though it comes with an evil HOA
-Good books that let my mind escape to an alternate world

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Snow!

2009-10-29T11:20:00.002-06:00

This is my backyard and the front of my house today after 26 inches of snow! I can't remember the last time that we got this much snow so early in the season.

Richard woke up early yesterday (and for him that's HUGE) to shovel the driveway for me so I could get to work on time. Then we both did 2 shifts of shoveling this morning and then again this morning. I opted to make today a work from home day! But Rich had to go to class.

Love the beauty of the snow!

My Husband ... The Farmer

2009-10-06T11:29:00.003-06:00

Quick shout out to my husband ... his hard work out in our garden all summer long, we now have over 225 tomatoes! and 12 Green Peppers!

Richard worked tirelessly out in the garden, watering, providing vitamins, and singing lullabyes (.. well maybe not). He loves to garden and we are totally reaping the rewards. I wish I had been thinking and taken a picture of him and his garden before we harvested. The tomato plants were over 6.5 feet all and eventually due to being top heavy all fell over. With the cold nights last wewek and more expected this week, we decided to harvest over the weekend.

Did you know that to help tomatoes which are not ripe to ripen, you're supposed to wrap in newspaper and put them in a cool, dark area??? Really! When Richard told me this, I had to call BS - they're plants and plants need the sun, right? Nope - I was wrong. But then again I was raised in a house full of black thumbs.... my Nana can grow anything, but sadly that wasn't passed to Mom and well Dad hates all things dirty, including dirt for gardening. So no gardening happened at my house.

Last night, Richard shared with me a favorite treat of his from childhood - Fried Green Tomatoes. No, not the movie - the actual frying of non-ripe tomatoes. Yummy!

Recent Reflections

2009-09-03T12:10:00.003-06:00

In the last week, I feel as though many people have asked us "how's married life?" Well its good - but it is really no different. If anything, we spend less time together than we did before we were married. Not because we don't want to be around eachother, but because we are more secure in us. We get to hang-out together often - and I love it! Our schedules don't always allow us to get to see the "best" of the other, but I love what we do get.

I love kissing a still sleeping Richard every morning before I leave for work, getting home first and starting dinner or doing something around the house, kissing him goodnight as he watches the game or reads his textbook. I used to love going to bed in the darkness of my bedroom, but now, I almost need the light on - cuz I know he'll come to bed and turn it off. I know that he'll check that the door is closed and locked and for some reason, that makes me feel safe.

So looking back on our 2.5 months of marriage - I know that I long for our marriage to be one that honors eachother and the values we share together. I think we're doing that well now and I pray that we continue to do so.

Rich starts school this week to get his master's degree. I'm so proud of him for starting the jounrey, but we both know that we have years of classes, projects, and finals ahead of him. While I can't speak for him, I think we're both standing at the base of this mountain wondering what it will bring. We know that it can be done, but it's a long climb, especially with one class at a time. He will have to put in the hard work required to pass while working full time. I can't do the work for him, but I find myself wondering how I can ease some of the pressure/work/stress that comes from taking this on. How can I support him the most in this new stage of our live together?

Oppsites Really do Attract

2009-08-06T12:57:00.003-06:00

Point in case: He LOVES thunder storms and I strongly dislike them... thunder scares me. It always has and always will.... especially when I'm home alone at night! I sometimes wonder how I married a man who absolutely loves thunderstorms and lightning and rain and hail and tornadoes!

But really I look at us and I true think opposites attract each other - without even knowing it. Subconsciously, they are what we're not as thus make a good partner in life.

Some of our opposites:
-He's tall (6'4") - I'm short (5'4")
-He's got dark brown hair - I'm a blond
-He's from the city - I'm from the suburbs
-He loves science - me accounting (okay we could argue both are math related)
-He's a dog person - I'm a cat person, but we'll get a dog one day
-He runs OUTSIDE during a thunderstorm - me, well I'd be under-the-bed if I wouldn't get made fun of for the rest of my life
-I'm uber organized and clean, he's not quite as much (but I'm like OCD)

and my current favorite: Sometimes I want/need change - Rich hates all change

When we moved in -
Rich - "Are you sure this is where you want the couches?"
Me - "yes!"

And last week:
"So I think I want to move the couches around..."

Yep, that's me. I like to re-arrange furniture every now and then. Especially when I move into a new place. You have to feel it out to see if it "feels right." So, right now, it doesn't feel right.

We haven't yet moved the couches :)

Honeymoon!!

2009-08-06T12:51:00.002-06:00

(note: this was supposed to be posted mid July... and when I went to change the date, it pushed it back to 2008 -- YIKES)

Was fabulous!

Richard and I made a deal about a year ago, that whenever we got married, I would plan the wedding and he would plan the honeymoon.... and that the honeymoon would be a surprise. So on June 11, we were married and it was everything that I've always wanted. I felt gorgeous, Richard was extremely good looking in the tux (I wasn't sure about the black shirt with white tie ... but it was awesome) and we had a blast. We got to see friends (went to fast) and got to swing dance ( I didn't keep my frame well but we had fun), really it was perfect. From the feedback we've received everyone also had a great time ... but people always tell you that. Then that night we got hooked up at a local hotel, the Omni... with Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries.

The next morning, we did what any new married couple would do.... went home and mowed the lawn! I know romantic, right? But it needed to be done before we left and we always do it together. It also gave us (read Richard) time to finish packing and prepping for the honeymoon.

SAT AM - we go to the airport and I find out we're going to Tampa, FL. I'm thinking, really Tampa? Why Tampa of all the places for a surprise honeymoon. But I keep my thoughts to myself cuz who knows what Richard has planned...

We arrive in Tampa, get on a shuttle bus and head downtown to our hotel. During the shuttle ride the driver is asking all kinds of questions and I learn that no, we're not in town to go on a cruise, while we are here for the beaches we're staying just about as far away from them as we could get and we didn't rent a car ... interesting honey!

So we go to a nice dinner that night since it is our honeymoon and all... there Richard breaks down and tells me that we are in deed GOING ON A CRUISE!!!! And not just any cruise, but a Western Caribbean 7 day Cruise to Grand Cayman, Belize, and Isla Roatan, Honduras! Couldn't have been a better place for our honeymoon.

We just got on the boat and thy handed us drinks!

Cruising around on the boat, checking things out

We spent much time sitting in these chairs, reading, napping and laughing

Dancing in the club :)

Port #1 - Grand Cayman Island

We went snorkeling here ... look how clear it is.

Port #2 - Belize

Sharing a Coke over lunch

Mayan Ruins of Belize

Port #3 - Roatan Island - Honduras

Our favorite!

Swimming with Dolphins

Kisses

More Dolphin kisses

The best beach EVER!

Last day on the boat

Every night at dinner our steward would make a towel animal, but on the last night we got a heart. He must have figured out we were honeymooning.

My favorite animal of the trip was the monkey - he was awesome!

Florida Aquarium - We spent our last day here until we had to go to the airport. It was an amazing honeymoon! Way to go Rich!

We're Back!

2009-07-01T12:13:00.008-06:00

I've started to write a post detailing our honeymoon - but I've been doing it in my free time at work and I don't have any of the pictures here. I've also decided that posts without pictures are boring, so you'll have to wait for the honeymoon detail :)

We've officially been married for 20 days!!

Our wedding was everything that I could have dreamed and then some. We had a blast! I felt gorgeous and knew by the way Richard first looked at me that he agreed. Richard looked amazing in his tux. Almost everything went according plan with some minor changes, of which, I barely took note of. I married my best friend! Who cares about anything else? I don't have the

(at our reception)

wedding pics yet but thankfully Kath took some awesome shots (and shared them via FB), so I'll leave you with some of them until I post honeymoon details (like how I'm not giving anything away). If you have pics from the wedding, I really want to see them.

(Yep, he dipped me!)

(Officially Mr & Mrs)

Swing Dancing

2009-05-13T11:45:00.002-06:00

It all started with a friend at my old work asking me/us to go dancing with him, before Richard and I even started to date. This friend went all the time and was really good, so I mentioned to Richard, if you go, I'll go. And as we were both beginners we could learn together - so that's what we did. We would meet at a local park-n-ride, then take one car to Denver (to save on gas). This was another time that we were able to spend time getting to know one another. I truly feel that car rides are a great time to talk to one another - other than traffic, there are really no distractions. It was on our car rides down to the Merc that we talked most about life, dreams, ambitions, and stories from childhood. Richard was always anxious to share new music with me and we found that we never ran out of things to discuss.

(Not Us - though maybe one day)

Since then, Richard and I have always loved to swing dance together. When we first started dating every Sunday night was swing dancing at the Mercury Cafe. As we prepare for our wedding, we decided that we really need to practice and get back in shape, so we're back at the Merc on Wednesday nights for their beginner lessons. It is also a great way for us to relieve stress and to spend time together, reminiscing the good ol'days.

5 Weeks and Counting

2009-05-08T15:48:00.006-06:00

Yesterday marked 5 weeks to the wedding. Both very exciting... but also kinda stressful. I made the mistake of looking at my checklist of things to do and got REALLY stressed out. It's just all those little things that add up. So please help me - if you haven't sent back your RSVP - please do... we won't be offended if you can't make it - we just need to know, so don't let that be the reason to net sent it. And if you can make it - by all means let us know so that we can fully prepare to celebrate with you .... If you didn't pick up the gist - just send them back sooner rather than later.

On that note, it has been interesting to see people's response cards. For people who have recently planned or are currently planning, they put the names of everyone who will be attending. Then there are people like Richard - who just put there own name then say 3 people are coming. While that's fine and all - but that person will be receiving a phone call "so its you and who are you bringing - can you please spell that for us." Because the last thing that you want is to spell someone's name wrong. It happened to me at a wedding once - Sarah - not Sara, was put on the card. It kinda made me sad. So as I'm picky about my name, I don't want to mess others up. Okay - I'll step off the soap box (for now).

A new stress for me - the rehearsal dinner. Even before Richard's mom passed away, we had always planned on doing/planning the rehearsal dinner ourselves. She lived in Oregon thus making it hard to plan and his Dad really didn't seem interested. Richard has really handled the details of this - but it dawned on me today that we should create a guest list. We knew we wanted just immediate family and bridal party - but that leaves a lot to question: Step-parents, girlfriends/boyfriends, husbands/wives, children, dates .... wow that is a lot to ponder. Holy cow - I think I'm gonna need some wine.

So with 5 weeks out - I have my 2nd/final dress fitting tomorrow, trying to break in my shoes (thats a whole other post), and then do the little things.

Oh yeah -Happy Mother's Weekend to all the moms! In my family we don't just celebrate days - we make weeks or weekends out of events. I guess you could just say that we love our family. So I leave you with my Mom, Nana, and sister. All amazing women!

A Friend's Journey

2009-05-07T10:13:00.002-06:00

I was cruising around one of my favorite social networking sites and found that a friend of mine had a link to this blog.

A group of women, my friend included, are going to Sierra Leone this summer to work with children and the blog is how they are raising money for their trip. They are holding an auction where people can bid on everything from paintings, to gift cards, to even shower money for the team. The auction is open from today (5/7) through Sunday night at 8pm (MST). I think this is such a cool way to raise money and get people involved and excited for their trip.

It's really happening

2009-04-14T14:37:00.002-06:00

We got it .... the first RSVP to the wedding!! It seems that receiving that in the mail really helped me realize that the wedding is 2 months. I loved that I got to be the one to open the mailbox last night and see it in there....I'm not sure Rich is as excited about it as I am. I can't wait to check tonight.

On a different thought - I was making our traditional green bean casserole for Easter dinner at Nana's this weekend and Rich says "You should have extra bought ingredients. That way we can make more..." Who knew he liked the casserole that much! Luckily for him I did get the family size and we have leftovers. I'll be adding this recipe to the "list" of foods we can easily make and both really like. It was so nice to be cooking in my kitchen this weekend in my home, though it did really make me feel like a grown-up, especially with Rich outside working on making the yard look good. Dog urine and poo which is not picked up is NOT good for the yard -- thank you precious owners! We also have this weed which Richard has never seen which has infested most of the back yard. He says it'll take 2-3 YEARS before it looks the way he wants it to.... Really?? Its a yard... grass grows... well I trust that our (cough**his**cough) yard will be the best on the block when he's done.

Wedding Update

2009-04-10T16:38:00.002-06:00

Family invitations are out! YAY.

We just got our tax return(s) this week and have some plans for what to do with it ...
- bedroom furniture :) I would love to get this sooner rather than later, that way I can free up some space in the closet for Richard to put his shoes in the shoe spot. I also think it will help to have a finished look in the room.
- new fence :( not really wanting to spend $$ this way, but we desperately need a new one. I can home last night and one panel was completely off the posts.
- Other home buys: Lawn mower - someday soon

Busy Season is in Full Effect

2009-03-20T12:13:00.002-06:00

I love my job, but right now I'm ready for March 31 to be here. Most of my clients have March 31 filing deadlines and that means my life is rather busy. In the past 5 weeks, I have been in Raleigh, NC, Anderson & Indianapolis, IN, Pueblo, CO and Boulder, CO working on various audits. During this I have found a new love for being at home.

Speaking of home. Our house is great. We still have boxes everywhere, unpacking to do, furniture to arrange, and cleaning, but we love it. Rich said its starting to feel like home for him and I once my traveling subsides, I will feel at home as well. Last weekend we did what true homeowners do - yardwork. Rich wants to start a garden but we have weeds all over the back so he was busy trying to pull them out. I was busy in the front with racking the wood pellets which blow out of their area in the wind. We know we have a lot of work a head of us before getting the yard in the condition we want it - but it's something he enjoys. While yardwork isn't my favorite - I view it as an investment in our house and I'm willing to do my share of the work as it's only fair.

This weekend I hope to do some much needed cleaning throughout the house. Last night was my first night to really use the kitchen and man-o-man, to continue with the previous owner's not cleaning - the inside of the oven is a disaster. I've never actually cleaned an over, so I'll be learning this weekend. If the house doesn't burn down - it'll be a success.

(Disclaimer - yes the first time I really used the kitchen was this week, but this week is also my first week of not traveling, so I'm really not that much of a slacker. I will say that Rich has cooked for me 2-3 times already).

Pictures - I would love to post some, but Rich has them all on his camera and I haven't downloaded them yet. Hopefully soon.

I have to say, I love coming home to my soon-to-be husband in the evenings.. especially when he has a glass of wine waiting as well :)

February 2009....

2009-02-27T17:20:00.002-07:00

Excluding the last 3 days of the month, February 2009 will go down in our books as the worst month EVER!! There is much to say about this month, but without clearing it with Richard, I'll keep it generic.

1) Death = suckage... even if you know it's coming.

2) Kitty surgery = no fun on any day... 1 week after #1 above = even worse. Throw in 1am complications, emergency vet trip and Sara traveling == super suckage.

3) Busy Season - as icing on the cake - when I've been in town, its at least an 11 hour working day (no commute time included). By the time I get home, its not worth a trip to B-town for Richard as I'll just fall asleep. But I was only in town for 2 weeks. The other 2 -- leave mid Sunday, travel to east coast, work long hours all week, minimal alone time, and then come home LATE LATE Friday night. So I can officially say - WAY TO GO MOM!! I don't know how you do it every week and manage to still be nice to everyone.

4) HOME -- the good of the month! We bought a house yesterday :) And couldn't be happier about it. Super stressful along the way and we still have more to accomplish with moving and decorating - but it's ours. Yay us!!!

So I'll try not to kick February out the door too fast, but I'm more than ready for this month to end.

Welcome March.... and for me, that also means Pueblo, CO - here I come.

Houses....

2009-01-15T16:45:00.007-07:00

So we've spent the better part of the weekends for the past month or so house-hunting. We knew that we wanted a house that required minimal work on our part - painting and carpet, or minor repairs, but we didn't want a fixer-upper. We've seen houses and townhouses in every range on the spectrum, and there were some where we would walk in and then just turn right around and leave. Mostly they were in good condition, but some made me wonder if these people really wanted to sell their homes. We saw one house that had potential, but we couldn't really see the house because they had so much junk everywhere. We had walked upstairs to look at the master bedroom and the owner left a pillow or blanket under the comforter that made it look like someone was sleeping.... or dead. I was officially creeped out. Another house we walked in was clearly a fix-n-flip that ran out of money... seriously the walls were half one color and half another. It was like mid-roll, they just decided to stop.

I say all this to say that this past weekend, we found "the one." I loved it... it's cute, not too big, open and inviting.. and in our price range. Richard said he would be happy anywhere and that I'm the more difficult one to please with finding the "right" house, but I know he loved it too. So we made an offer... on Sunday night at like 11pm! That was a rush... and neither of us could really sleep that night. But they countered on Monday morning and it was right where we were hoping to end (okay.. well a little higher, but I didn't want to let it go with a difference of like 2k... really it won't make much difference in the loan) so we accepted and by 3pm on Monday we were under contract :)

What a roller coaster of a Monday .... so I'll leave you with a pic of what we hope will be our house.

A Hard Start ot 2009

2009-01-01T21:46:00.003-07:00

2009 thus far has not been filled the joy that we hoped. Last night, while ringing in the new year with friends, one noticed her boyfriend was not around and his car was gone. When we finally reached him on his phone, he told us he thought he had totaled his car. My friend ran to find him and luckily met up with him at the end of the block... the bad news - his face was bleeding rather heavily and we knew. The saga that followed was not fun, but to sum up, his car was in a ditch, Rich and I took a ride in the back of a police cruiser but it was only to help the officer as we were not in trouble... never the less, a new experience for both of us, and friend's boyfriend was in the ER with the local police looking for him. Thank fully Mom, was kinda enough to come pick Rich and I up since the risk of driving home all after that and 2 drinks wasn't worth it.

I didn't think that we could top that, but later today, we found out that one of Rich's friends from high school killed himself on Christmas. I never met him, but it saddens me. From the little I know, he had just lost his job and with his past, hope of a new job was non-existent. He also had a baby this year with his girlfriend.... and they broke up within the last months. I feel bad for his family and all his friends. Another friend of Rich's from high school is taking this hard. I can only hope that comfort is found for all.

So to all who may read this, I hope your new year is better than our has started. Here's to 2009... well a happy and prosperous 2009. Make sure to eat your black-eyed-peas since they are supposed to bring luck.

December Already??

2008-12-12T10:57:00.002-07:00

Man-oh-man... where has the time gone? Rich and I have been busy with planning and thankfully we are getting close to having most stuff done. And it's Decemeber. I love this time of year and the lights and cheer :)

We went to Trans Siberian Orchestra last week which is always a highlight for me. The lights, music, and excitement. I've gotten to the point, that it really isn't Christmas time until I see TSO. This year was extra special because Mom and Grace joined us. It was their first time seeing it, and their reactions made it more exciting for me. To add to that, the night was even better as we celebrated my mom's birthday. A milemarker in her life - but she probably won't want to be sharing that she just turned 25 (hehe.... well maybe not 25).

Updates from Rich's post:
We did decide on a florist -- but we still need to tell them.

We've also selected our officiant. What a character this man is! The Saturday we met him, he starts be telling us that if we're meeting with him, then we don't want a traditional wedding (true, we don't). He tells us his ideas fr our wedding and tells us about his past and who he is. After all that, we decided he's our guy: seems a little rough around the edges, but as warm and friendly as you can imagine! And his fee goes to his foundation that works in Latin and South American teaching people English and job skills (LOVE IT!!) and his tip for the day of the wedding.... a bottle of single malt scotch, no younger than 15 yrs... that's our kind of guy, so long as he drinks it after the ceremony.

Invitations - we found some cardstock we like and now have to think about wording for the invitations and perhaps try a few different printers... maybe even check out what Kinkos would charge. Definitely don't want to spend lots on money on something people will most likely throw away after the event.

Lots and Lots of Wedding Planning

2008-11-26T11:16:00.003-07:00

Sara wrote about our cake tasting a few weeks back. It was fun. After that, we had an engagement photo session that Sara won at a bridal show (I'll never make fun of them again). The photographer did an incredible job and we're going to use the company at our wedding. This is where I don't mind spending some extra money - photos are going to be our view into the wedding in the future.

Thankfully, Sara has been busy setting up appointments and looking at things online in her spare time. I've had trouble keeping up with everything.

Since the cake tasting and photo session, we've gone to two florists for quotes (still need to decide on one) , done some gift registry and have looked at all kinds of invitations. We need to decide how to do the invitations/stationery. Companies charge a lot of money to print things. We can buy patterned paper and print them ourselves. The trade-off is obviously the time involved. I'd rather spend my time doing the stationery at home instead of paying someone an exorbitant fee to do it for me.

Now is the time to be looking for and buying decorations too. Prior to Sara's busy season (Jan-Apr), I want a plan in place to set up and execute projects. Getting the materials now would go a long way toward ensuring success of those projects.

Wedding Planning Update

2008-11-05T16:59:00.002-07:00

This past Saturday was a huge day for us in terms of planning.... we picked out our cake!! Yummy! Thanks to Mom for joining us as we needed her opinion. Especially since cake isn't Richard's favorite thing. But we picked out some flavors that will please him (and me too!)

After the cake choosing, we had engagement photo's taken. We hadn't planned on doing engagement photos due to the additional cost and that we have so many pics of us already. But 2 weeks ago, I got a phone call saying we were chosen from a drawing I entered at a bridal show. We won a **FREE** Engagement photo session! So last minute (like last Thursday) we decided to have the pics done on Saturday cuz we knew the weather would be beau-ti-ful.. and it was. I was planning on wearing a cute little brown jacket over the shirt, but it was just too hot for that. I love that on Nov 1 in Colorado, we can have 70 degree days.

Our Little Niece is not so Little!

2008-11-03T16:55:00.004-07:00

Where did the time go? Really, I remember the 3:30am birth of Emma Jade on Oct 24 three years ago. It seems like yesterday and she isn't even my daughter. Rich was such a tropper for only having dated for a few months. He joined me at Bren's surprise baby shower, almost won the drink out of a bottle game and then stayed at the hospital with us through the entire 24 hour labor. I can't image what it will be like when we have kids - but until then....
Happy Birthday little Emma-Bug! Aunty Sara and Uncle Rich love you to pieces. You are such a little spitfire and you are so sure of what you want. You always make us smile. And while it hasn't been easy to adjust to being a big sister - you are doing a marvolous job.

You're 3!!!!

Halloween!

2008-11-03T16:51:00.002-07:00

Not a whole lot of time to blog, but here's us at Halloween. I was a witch and Ricky was V. We went to a party some of my co-workers had at their apartment. We had lots of fun and enjoyed our Crown & Cokes :)

First Snow of the Season!

2008-10-23T10:27:00.002-06:00

This week is a big week for me. I'm at my first client in Cripple Creek, Colorado and I saw my first snow of the season.

The first snow of the season is always a happy day for me, mainly because I know that Richard will stay up all night waiting for the snow to start. Since he's still in Boulder this week, and they didn't get any snow I know that he wasn't up all night waiting. When I awoke Wednesday morning though, I knew that Rich would have been so excited to see the snow out my hotel window and even though it's freezing cold, it still makes me happy. Rich is like a little kid in a candy store with the first snow and really any other big weather event - he gets so excited that the excitement spills over and fills me up too :) To my weather loving, fiance - I took this one in for you and knew you'd love to be up here with me.

Today our team is awaiting our client bringing in a 500lbs pumpkin! We can't wait to see it - even though we're not auditing it. It's just a little something different to add to the week here. Last night while at dinner at Rooster's, a very nice steakhouse for the little town, we met the mayor of the town. Quite a nice man but he could tell immediately that we were not from around here - dressed nice, no winter boots, and well we just kinda stick out like a sore thumb compared to the locals.

Hugs

2008-10-10T08:52:00.002-06:00

It is not uncommon for me to be told, "Wow, you give great hugs!" or something along the great hugs. I was thinking about why that was recently and recalled a memory long ago stored away:

In late middle school and into early high school one of my friends, Brooke, from our group of 4, became friends with Chelsea. So as young girls work, we were all "friends" with Chelsea. Chelsea was a very tall slender blond girl, who was always flirting with a new flavor of the week but I was never convinced that she really was or wanted to be friends with the rest of the group. As it was during our friendship we would all give eachother hugs, whether in greeting or just cuz someone needed a hug. But whenever I received a hug from Chelsea, it felt as though it was something she was being forced into. Her hugs were so light, it was as though she didn't want to touch us. Which gave the oppposite effect that I beleive a hug should give. I believe that after receiving a hug, the hugee should feel loved and cared for by the huger. It should bring them joy and if needed comfort. It should be welcoming. After hugging Chelsea, I would feel as though I wasn't good enough, as though she didn't like me, didn't want to touch me, didn't care about me. All the things a hug should never be. So it was then, I made a conscience decision, to give good hugs: Sqeeze tight, hold or a second, and take the time to hug my hugee. I never anyone to feel like I did after receiving a hug from Chelsea, when they receive a hug from me.

I've found that giving "great hugs" makes people happier. It cheers them up and it cheers me up in return to have made someone smile. I think our society often orgets about those little things that can make a person's day. So I use hugs to welcome people I know an care about, to help support my friends, and to show those I love, that I love them.

So my friends, Hug on!

Intro and Planning

2008-09-27T15:08:00.002-06:00

I've meant to post things here since Sara created the site, which I thought was an awesome idea. I decided today to do just that. I couldn't be more excited to begin a family with Sara. I'm excited to join her family and hope she's excited to join mine (more friends than blood, really). The place we're having the marriage ceremony is beautiful. Tux styles and colors were chosen, leading to the primary color being burgundy, which as Sara said looks really good with us. I thought I would wear more of it, but I guess that's not the way these things work...

We want to get registered for stuff and decided to start by taking pictures of things so we can look at them at our leisure and plan our future place out now. We started with the bedroom. Yikes! We have very different thoughts on what a bedroom should contain, let alone the style and look of it. Good thing we decided to talk about these things before registering. I'm glad Sara wants my opinion and isn't just choosing everything for us, even though I giver her a hard time while we're looking.

So we have a few ideas in mind for room themes and am working on negotiating what's in and what's out of our future bedroom. We looked through some kitchen things while we were out. That was much nicer - we have similar opinions on styles. We both prefer classic looks to dishes and silverware, things that will still look nice in 10, 20 and 30 years. Maybe a cafe theme for the kitchen? There's so much to look through and decide! It's all very overwhelming...

The week continued to be busy as we did some looking for wedding bands. I settled on a nice piece. Our preference for a classy/elegant look is in direct contrast to jeweler's attempts to put as much stuff into one ring as possible, be it the engagement ring or the wedding ring. So finding something for Sara proved to be a little tougher. We left with some ideas, but no ring yet for her.
The next night, we went to a presentation from a crystal/china company. It turned out better than I thought it would. We decided on some very nice cookware, knives, a casual china dining set, a couple of crystal glasses and some very nice toasting glasses! We'll start out good, that's for sure.

Amazingly, not every retailer has a good selection of bedding options, as we found out this morning. Too girly, thank you very much. It looks like we'll take a closer look at options from Location #1 before making a decision.

There's tons of choices to make still. One at a time...

Dress Up!

2008-09-26T17:23:00.002-06:00

When I was a little girl, I would always go into my mom's closet and come out wearing her heals. I LOVED getting all dressed up in her things whether fancy or pretending that I had to go to work. I always thought it so sophisticated to get to wear a suit to work and be a grown-up.

Now after 4 weeks working, I still feel like I get to dress up everyday and I still love it. Something about wearing heals and knowing that you look nice, always puts me in a good mood. It's also a big transition from my college days of jeans and huddies or whatever shirt I grabed from my closet. Not to say that I was a slob in college, I just always worn jeans and sneakers rather than dress pants and heals.

I smile every morning as I get off the 16th street mall bus and walk 1 1/2 blocks to my office. I'm still just a little girl at heart, playing dress up with Mom's shoes.

Job Update

2008-09-13T10:27:00.002-06:00

So I've just spent the last 3 weeks training with MP. Last week I was in St Charles, IL and was learning how to audit cash and accounts payable. A training that could probably have been done in 3 days rather than 5. They are working on re-vamping the training process, but in the end, I am a firm believer that you're not going to learn how to use a piece of software unless you are actively using it in the real world. It is there, that I'll start to learn what is overall happening and the short cuts. In a training room with 40 other people, you can only learn so much.

This week was my first full week in Denver! I LOVE taking the bus. I don't have to worry about parking, driving, road rage, or any of that other stuff. I just show up, get on, then either read or nap :)

We did more training but more applicable to the Denver office and more geared to what I would really need to know. Instead of having a partner who rarely actively uses the software teach us, we have a person a level above us do it and she knows her shit about the stuff. Everything was useful and practical.

All to say I'm having FUN!

And the color choice is...

2008-09-13T10:23:00.002-06:00

BURGUNDY for our wedding.

I realize that being a June wedding, burgundy isn't the popular color choice as it's more of a winter shade, but it looks good on both Rich and I and we think it'll look really classy :)

So now we have a date, location, and color..... now onto the smaller details.

My New Job

2008-09-05T15:34:00.002-06:00

So I know it's been a while since I last blogged. And in that time I have:
- Moved ... the cats love having another person to serve them and sleep on :)
- Started New Job
- Went to Des Moines for training.

So I'm now sitting in yet another orientation and well... I'm bored. Starting a new job while is fun, includes lots of little HR things and general training. I've now been an official employee for 3 days and really haven't gotten to get my feet wet. But that happens... it's really a learn as you go job. I do get to know to Chicago next week for more training, and when I say Chicago, I really mean close to it, but won't be able to go to the city at all. Anyway who knows what we'll learn so it could be fun!

Passed

2008-08-25T08:33:00.002-06:00

I PASSED the CPA EXAM on the first go around!! Couldn't be happier. That's it for now

Time for Travel

2008-08-11T09:31:00.002-06:00

I have now officially started the month of travel! It started at the end of July with a wonderful trip to Puerto Vallarta with my mom. It was a wonderful week spent reading and relaxing. Mom and I both needed time away and for us, Puerto Vallarta is paradise. We generally spent the mornings on the beach, then the late afternoons in the pool. We ate at our favorite places and never felt rushed around. I was able to read 3 books: Something Borrowed, The Red Tent, and Consent to Kill. I highly recommend all of them! At the resort, there is a little zoo with pumas, tigers, parrots, and monkeys. The puma's just had a little cub. He was so cute. We caught him one day stalking his momma's tail.

Now Rich and I are in Estes Park for a week. We'll do some hiking, reading, and some planning for the future. We're hoping to figure out where we want to get married and then set a date!! YAY! We're staying at the Worldmark up here, and we have both found it leaves something to be desired. Our "unit" is incredibly small and the "kitchen" is almost non-existent. It'll work and we'll still be cooking in the unit instead of always eating out.

We'll be off to San Diego next week for my cousin's wedding. So excited for them. I'm sure I'll blog more about the trip later with the fam. After that I have a week to move and get things set up at my mom's house before starting work. Wow, what a month. I think I need a nap and a glass of wine now.

Honeymoon!

2008-08-04T16:20:00.000-06:00

Was fabulous!

Richard and I made a deal about a year ago, that whenever we got married, I would plan the wedding and he would plan the honeymoon.... and that the honeymoon would be a surprise. So on June 11, we were married and it was everything that I've always wanted. I felt gorgeous, Richard was extremely good looking in the tux (I wasn't sure about the black shirt with white tie ... but it was awesome) and we had a blast. We got to see friends (went to fast) and got to swing dance ( I didn't keep my frame well but we had fun), really it was perfect. From the feedback we've received everyone also had a great time ... but people always tell you that. Then that night we got hooked up at a local hotel, the Omni... with Champagne and chocolate covered strawberries.

The next morning, we did what any new married couple would do.... went home and mowed the lawn! I know romantic, right? But it needed to be done before we left and we always do it together. It also gave us (read Richard) time to finish packing and prepping for the honeymoon.

SAT AM - we go to the airport and I find out we're going to Tampa, FL. I'm thinking, really Tampa? Why Tampa of all the places for a surprise honeymoon. But I keep my thoughts to myself cuz who knows what Richard has planned...

We arrive in Tampa, get on a shuttle bus and head downtown to our hotel. During the shuttle ride the driver is asking all kinds of questions and I learn that no, we're not in town to go on a cruise, while we are here for the beaches we're staying just about as far away from them as we could get and we didn't rent a car ... interesting honey!

We just got on the boat and thy handed us drinks!

Cruising around on the boat, checking things out

We spent much time sitting in these chairs, reading, napping and laughing

Dancing in the club :)

Port #1 - Grand Cayman Island

We went snorkeling here ... look how clear it is.

Port #2 - Belize

Sharing a Coke over lunch

Mayan Ruins of Belize

Port #3 - Roatan Island - Honduras

Our favorite!

Swimming with Dolphins

Kisses

More Dolphin kisses

The best beach EVER!

Last day on the boat

Every night at dinner our steward would make a towel animal, but on the last night we got a heart. He must have figured out we were honeymooning.

My favorite animal of the trip was the monkey - he was awesome!

Florida Aquarium - We spent our last day here until we had to go to the airport. It was an amazing honeymoon! Way to go Rich!

And the Studying Continues...

2008-07-24T14:59:00.004-06:00

So this week, I have been living in my Becker CPA review book for the Business section. Sorry I could only find a pic of the auditing book. Same thing though, just a red cover... Oh and for the non-accountants out there: CPA = Certified Public Accountant.

I can say that I cannot wait to be done taking the CPA exam. I'm almost entirely burnt out on studying and memorizing the material. The only thing keeping me going is that if I pass this next exam, I should be done with the exam portion of my CPA requirements.

I often wonder how those who are working and studying to take the exam do it. I can't imagine working 8 hours a day doing accounting then finding the energy to study. Given - I did work earlier this summer and found it hard to study. I was in an office where I could study some at work and the work wasn't all that challenging for me, so I still had some brain power left at the end of the day.

Good news though: I have for sure passed 2 of the 4 tests. I took one on the 14th of July and will take one next week. Assuming I pass, I'm done after next week (HOORAY!!) I've heard rumors that the grading time will increase so I hope to find out about the scores by Oct.

On the family front: my sister, Grace, and her boyfriend just got back from Mexico on Tuesday then were both in the ER last night from either Ecoli or Salmonilla... so G is home today sleeping and I'm playing the caretaker role of fetching prescriptions, turning on movies, and occasionally getting water for her. Not sure where they got it from in Mexico cuz we've never had an issue in the last 13 years or so of going down there...

Back to the great red book now.

Heading Back to Colorado

2008-07-20T11:29:00.002-06:00

While we've been in Austin, Matt and my Mom split kitty watching duty. THANK YOU!! It was such a huge help to us.. and I know the kitties appreciate being fed daily.

This morning they wrapped up the conference and I packed up and prepared to head back home to Colorado. While Austin was fun to visit, I'm ready to be back home. I think next time I travel to this part of the country, I will be doing so November.

Yesterday I managed to leave the AC of the hotel and explore a little (pics to come). I headed over 3 or 4 blocks to a little Mexican restaurant that was highly recommended by locals for lunch. I sat down and asked for a coke. nope no coke served there, but they do have Blue Sky soda. So I had that but I think a coke would have tasted better. I had the enchiladas rojas - chicken. Good food. A great lunch if you're in a hurry as the food came out very quickly. After lunch I strolled another few blocks away from the hotel and walked back another the river front. They call it a lake here, but really it's a river. The previous night, Rich and I walked down to the river front by Congress St. Bridge to see the bats. At dusk these bats who live in the bridge by day come out to hunt. Amazing! We must have seen 150,000 bats, and they don't just all come out from the bridge at once. They flow out in a line at the banks of the river and fly just above the trees. Then eventually they spread out to eat. I'm so glad we took the time to do that.

Dinner last night: Fogo de Chao. Much like Rodezio in Denver and as we called it: Meat on sticks! Amazing dinner, but also a little more expensive then expected. But well worth it. It was Richard's and mine celebration together since we haven't really done that since our engagement, along with 5 others joining us. Fillet mignon wrapped in bacon would be the favorite. YUM!

Okay time to socialize with the other bloggers around.

Austin, Texas

2008-07-17T18:52:00.003-06:00

We're in Austin this week..... and well that being said... it's HOT!! I know it's Texas and supposed to be hot, but that doesn't mean that I have to like it. Really its the humidity that kills me. I can handle the dry 100 degree temps in Colorado, but add 85% humidity and I'm not a happy camper.

We arrived yesterday with no issues and took the bus from the airport to our hotel for a whapping $0.50. Probably the best money spent. We only had to walk about 2 blocks from the bus stop to the hotel and if I weren't wearing jeans, it would have been fine. Given the whole wearing jeans part, I was warm (see above) and thrilled once we hit the AC. How people live without it in the south, I'll never know. We checked in at both the hotel and the conference then decided that food had to be in our future. From many recommendations, we tried Iron Works BBQ. It was good BBQ but they didn't have AC and I overheat quickly so couldn't fully enjoy the meal. Walked back to the hotel and spent many hours online in the lobby. Much of which was spent talking with other bloggers attending Netroots Nation. I was interviewed for an XM type radio. I tried (HARD) to get them to interview Rich since he's really the blogger and I'm not so much but they wanted to hear from me. I don't really get involved with the political blogging, but the guy wanted to hear about the blogging I do, which led to this site, which led to me reading this post. Hopefully, I don't sound like too much of a dork.

Today, I spent most of the by myself while Rich was attending sessions at the conference. I joined them for lunch at a local mexican food place but otherwise stayed inside. I went to workout and was shocked that they charge to use the gym here. So I opted for the $15 for the whole trip instead of $10/day usage. I'm hoping this will motivate me to use the gym daily since I am paying for it. I also got chapter 1 of the BEC Becker CPA book studied. My goal is to get a chapter a day done so that I'll be ready for the exam on the 29th. Now, I think I need a martini...

Weekend of Fun...

2008-07-15T14:24:00.002-06:00

So this weekend, we made our down to Larkspur, CO for the Renaissance Festival. We chose a great weekend to go as it was only in the upper 70's and low 80's and found some great buys. We also found out some good friends of mine also just got engaged!! Congrats to Malea & Clark.

To start the day, Rich and I drove the 1hr-ish drive together and got to spend some time together just the 2 of us. We were able to talk about life and start discussing wedding details. Even though we have agreed that I'll plan the wedding and he gets the honeymoon, I still want his input on things as it is his wedding as well.

We found this great little stand: Garlic Festival, where they sell amazing spices made with... GARLIC. We highly recommend the jalapeño pickled garlic. Then made our way over to the steak on a stake place for lunch :) Yummy!! I also enjoyed cheesecake on a stick dipped in chocolate for lunch. While it was yummy, I don't recommend eating it in the heat of the day.

We did more than eat too.... Rich found a ring that he has been looking for to go on his middle finger. Somehow the cats have managed to steal his old ring and a replacement was needed. Rich also found a black cape. Another item which has been on his to get list for a while.

Sunday was spent studying for my exam on Monday. I don't feel confident that I passed, but I don't think I bombed it either... I guess I'll just have to wait and see.

Anyway, now we're off to Austin TX for Netroot's Nation over the weekend.

The Proposal

2008-07-10T11:32:00.004-06:00

It was a perfect proposal!

When we first started dating we would take walks in the afternoon at work. It was on these walks that we really got to know each other. As we would walk, he would always point out cool spiderwebs, flowers, butterflies, or other things that he wanted to make sure I saw. Over the years we've continued to take these walks in the afternoons when its nice outside.

So on July 7, Rich came by my office to take our afternoon walk. It was a little later than usual, but I'm always up for spending quality time with him. So we walked over to the park and sat under the gazebo for a while. He was being extra tender and sweet which wasn't all that out of sorts since he does that some days. Well it was starting to rain, so we decided to head back to the office. As we're walking back and he stops and bends over and says "hey Sara look at this" as he typically does when pointing out something and I'm thinking okay its raining, we're getting wet, and I don't see what your pointing at and have no idea what I'm supposed to be seeing, so I say "what am I looking at?" A typical response from me when I'm not sure what I'm supposed to see. So Rich is down on one knee "pointing out" this cool thing and then all of a sudden he turns back towards me and flips this gorgeous ring around and says "here" to get me to look at this "cool thing." I started freaking out.... he'll have to fill in the details, but breathing in shock, crying, smiling, etc.... Rich has this great speech prepared and of course I'm freaking out too much to really remember it all, but I got good parts and of course said YES!

Note: The pic was taken from my phone, so not the best quality. I'll try to get a better one posted later

Final Days...

2008-07-10T11:08:00.000-06:00

So not only did we get engaged this week (!) but it is also my last week as a student assistant. I've been working here for 3 years and it seems odd to close this chapter. It has been a GREAT student job: pick my hours, study when needed, and no weekends or evenings. Really it couldn't have been better. I met Richard here and have been able to see him almost everyday during the day since his office is about 50ft down the hall from my cube.

I've been looking forward to this day for some time now. I think I was really ready to be done here last summer after my boss left. I was left training both her replacements and then worked on an interesting project where I learned some linux and other useful skills to put in my toolbox. I had some projects to wrap up and did so last week, so now I'm just cleaning things up - my computer, desk, files...etc.

I will miss my friends here and really will miss lunches with the boys and randomly poking my head in Richard's office just to say hi. But this marks my step into the "real adult world." I'm done with school and am ready to begin my career. Before I do so however, I'm taking 7 weeks to myself of which I have to following plans: STUDY (2 more CPA's this month), pack and move back to mom's house for a year or so, travel to many places, relax, read a FUN book since I haven't had to opportunity in a while ... any suggestions? I loved the Vince Flynn series... anti-terrorism, CIA , could never really happen but an interesting story none-the less.

FAQ's

2008-07-08T15:58:00.000-06:00

Why start a blog?
I have been threatening to do so for a while now and this seems like a great way to start. Hopefully family and friends will be able to keep up on what's going on in our lives and with the wedding planning.

Who are you?
I just got my master's in accounting. I'm working on passing the CPA exam before starting my career as an auditor (I know, a scary word). I've already passed 2 of the 4 parts surprisingly and take the next 2 this month.
Richard does scientific research and LOVES his job. He is always pointing out cool weather things and is trying to teach me a little something about the thing he loves. His passion for life amazes me.

Where did you meet?
At work! I've spent the past 3 years working as a student assistant right down the hall from Richard. We met my first day there. My supervisor, Kim, was showing my the files where we kept all the information I would need and Richard was walking into work with his tray full of breakfast: eggs, bacon, and hash browns. I was immediately attracted to him and he says that I "was the hottest thing to hit the division" or something like that.

When did you meet?
March 2005

How long have you been dating?
Since June 2005

How did Richard propose?
Perfectly! When we first started dating we would take walks in the afternoon at work. It was on these walks that we really got to know each other and he would always point out cool spiderwebs or other nature points of interest that he wanted to make sure I saw. Over the years we've continued to take these walks in the afternoons when its nice outside. So on July 7, Rich came by my office to take our afternoon walk. It was a little later than usual, but I'm always up for spending quality time with him. So we walked over to the park and sat under the gazebo for a while. He was being extra tender and sweet which wasn't all that out of sorts since he does that some days. Well it was starting to rain, so we decided to start walking back to the office. So we're walking back and he stops and bends over and says "hey Sara look at this" as he typically does when pointing out a spiderweb. I'm thinking okay its raining, we're getting wet, and I have no idea what your pointing out, so I say "what am I looking at?" A typical response from me when I'm not sure what I'm supposed to see. So Rich is down on one knee "pointing out" this cool thing and then all of a sudden he turns back and flips this gorgeous ring around and says "here" to get me to look at this "cool thing." I started freaking out.... he'll have to fill in the details, but breathing in shock, crying, smiling, etc.... Rich has this great speech prepared and of course I'm freaking out too much to really remember it all, but I got good parts and of course said YES!

When is the big day?
No idea yet.... we haven't talked those details but we're thinking Summer 2009-ish

Just Gettin' Started

2008-07-08T15:28:00.000-06:00

Rich just popped the question on 7/7 and now we're starting our journey together. We both have known this day was coming for a while and have been anticipating our life together for some time. I could not be happier to get to call myself his fiance, knowing that I'll be his wife and he, my husband!

I've been threatening to start a blog for a while and this seems like the perfect opportunity. I've never been good at keeping a journal or diary, so we'll see if I actually keep up on things here. More to come later... promise. Perhaps an FAQ as requested by a friend.