Elliott and Alisa.

Keeping Busy

2012-01-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

I've noticed that pregnancy ages your body about 10 years. Or at least it aged mine. I knew with my first pregnancy and postpartum recovery that most other 20 year-old's with the same quality of health and living as I had once easily enjoyed did NOT physically feel 30 or even older. I did, and maybe that was because my body was, according to statistical and "world" viewpoints, not quite to that baby making age. 30-year-old pregnant women, do you feel 40? Did you? I've noticed that diet, exercise, hair appointments, and fresh clothes, do not snap you back into that pre-pregnancy self alone (or in my case, do not keep you looking relatively refreshed throughout your pregnancy).

Here are a couple of helpful and fun things that have made this go around much more enjoyable, and much easier, and I expect them to have a similar effect on my second time being postpartum:

Because my eyes have aged.

Who ever really knows with eye creams, right? I can tell that those dark circles of mine have lightened but maybe it's because I want to believe it. Still love it, still worth a try, still feels oh so good and tingly when I apply.

Because my skin has aged.

Certainly my favorite out there, and I hear they sell it at Sprout's! With Beckett, I bought some super fancy stretch mark oil and, because it was so expensive, used it sparingly (oops!)--though I still went through two bottles. It didn't work (though, with first babies-- and first babies that are nearly 10 pounds--who knows? It might not have regardless of my application frequency). Because of the inexpensive price, I apply this daily and liberally, and it has kept my belly as smooth and clear as a Buddha statue's. Plus, I have used it for 5 months and still have a quarter left.

Because my body has aged.

Look at that girl, so comfortable and secure while pumping her breast milk. That's going to be me. Count on it. No repeats of falling asleep while pumping in the middle of the night only to be startled awake by the feel of "spillage."

Because my feet have aged.

My baby/Christmas/necessity gift. As smooth a ride as ever and just as durable. Wish I would've just bought this stroller initially (and a separate carseat and lightweight frame) instead of falling victim to the whole "travel system" marketing trap that almost all new moms are prey to.

Maternity Pictures

2012-01-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

[Taken at the Provo Orchards, December 2011]

I owe a many MANY thanks to the wonderful Stacey Smith and her incredible photography skills.

Might As Well

2012-01-09T20:34:00.000-07:00

Beckett playing with Elliott's 20-year-old McDonald's play sets in Utah. They don't make 'em like they used to--and it's an absolute shame. Yes, he's eating the plastic cheeseburger--boy's gotta get some protein in him somehow!

As soon as I finish this post I'm off to Taco Bell--so I'd better get typing because I'm HUNGRY NOMNOM. Today was what "we" call a "Taco Bell Kind of Day."

It started off with a speeding ticket.

I didn't know the officer was behind me until he literally honked at me. Literally, honked. Am I pregnant or what? When I looked up and saw a motorcycle cop with his lights on, my first thought was, "Am I in his way?" When I changed lanes and he followed I figured... "Not exactly."

He was very surprisingly//unusually//refreshingly nice (some may argue an oxymoron) and didn't ticket me as high as it was supposed to be. He actually laughed when I said that I didn't even see him (apparently he was just "sitting there") much less how fast I was going.

I then went to Trader Joe's (with hormonal pregnancy traffic ticket tears). Reaching the front of the very lonnnng checkout line and while being rung up, I realized that I had left my wallet in the car after pulling it out for the ticket. I ran through the parking lot wielding my 30+ pound child and took a frustratingly long amount of time to find said wallet. In that period of time, Beckett found the tube of Skittles I was using to bribe him to climb into his car seat and dumped it out. All over the car. Finally finding my wallet, I heaved my child ("children" if you count the preggo belly) back through the parking lot only to have my phone fall out of my pocket in the middle of the busy street and the back fall off.

Finally reaching my car with my groceries the day progressed in a similar manner with minor instances of Beckett tantrums and fellow Target customers' rudeness-es.

The day grew comically awful. It was all I could do to laugh and perhaps it was even a tender mercy that a crap storm occurred right after the ticket to take my mind off the hard blow. That, and I actually had to stop off at Elliott's school before TJ's where he took the ticket right out of my hand and told me to not give it another thought, worry, or feeling of guilt. He would take care of it, and I knew it.

Baby two comes a month from today. I am excited, I am wanting him here, I am ready to get this show on the road since I'm losing enough sleep as is, it would be nice to be able to return to being a back sleeper again for when I do get it.

But for now, I am off to Taco Bell. Wow, only a month left of that too and then I will return to my normal dejection of ~~all~~ most food that is "fast."

Christmas in Utah

2012-01-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Stocking stuffers. There is a picture out there of Elliott making an uncannily similar facial expression and holding a pair of sunglasses as well.

Smooches from Kris.

On the the Trax headed to Salt Lake. My new favorite picture of Elliott and Beckett.

New Christmas Jammies

Singing to Nana with his new microphone. Beckett opened a present a day from Nana leading up to Christmas. He is impossible not to spoil.

Christmas Eve 2011

I never thought I'd be a big "Utah" person, as in taking part of that "culture" within the Mormon culture. Neither of us really had close family there until Elliott's parents moved up a year and a half ago. I had only been up to their home once to visit (Christmas 2010) before this past Christmas. Each time we leave to come back to Arizona, I miss it just a bit more. The endless game nights, fun movies, and to die for food (both homemade and takeout) don't even scratch the surface of why Nana and Papa's is quickly becoming one of my favorite places to visit. I so miss them--even Wilma and Weimaraner--and their warm home and am already dreaming about our next visit (with baby no. 2)! And I will admit, that I am pretty jealous of the weather (minus the inversion) and restaurants--both very important things to a pregnant girl.

What's The Time? Diaper Time.

2011-12-09T14:43:00.001-07:00

We forgot we're having a baby in two months--from today,exactly.

Black Friday sparked a little bit of interest as to the potential deals on strollers, toddler beds, crib mattresses, and the like. Literally, we hadn't bought a single thing for this baby until 11 weeks before his arrival date--with the exception of a few warm newborn clothes and a replacement Hoolie. The procrastination (which, thanks to online shopping, ie Amazon Prime) hasn't been a bad thing. The less I think about it, the less overwhelmed I get and stress about it, the less cortisol gets spiked in my unborn child's veins--though I have been stressing about a name since day one. Still nothing. Because all of this baby prep has coincided with the holidays, my Christmas present will conveniently be a double stroller (kills two birds with one credit card)--it is certainly nothing to complain about. I do hope I have enough energy for two boys. I am quite confident I will, actually, it is rather the question of being able to utilize my energy in an efficient way (several intriguing parenting books were purchased on Amazon in the last two weeks as well). Regardless, this little baby will have quite the treat coming into our family as the second baby: he doesn't come home to two loving parents alone, he gets a Beckett as well.

And that's a pretty sweet present for both of those boys.

Beckett eating one of his favorite breakfast foods. He gets it from me. I have more boxes of cereal in my cupboard than Jerry Seinfeld. I eat, on average, two bowls a day (with plenty of skim milk).

Slightly unsure of his Sunday shaving cream predicament. His leg tan line hints at once over-worn shorts that eventually became short shorts.

The Holiday(s)

2011-12-07T14:14:00.002-07:00

Because a few of us leave town for Christmas, my parents have creatively and thoughtfully decided to combine Christmas and Thanksgiving this year and last in what has been deemed a sort of "Thanksgivmas." The annual and beloved Turducken is served, presents are unwrapped, and family time is enjoyed.

After what seems like years and years of serving up Turducken for Thanksgiving, my dad has become a master at preparing and dissecting it artfully onto a platter so that each type of bird has its own display. He is a veterinarian so really, no surprise. Honestly, it's probably my favorite holiday tradition. Not just because it is absolutely to die for (hello, cornbread stuffing), but because when I tell people what I'm doing for Thanksgiving, "Turducken" is inevitably mentioned and jaws drop at the seemingly fabled dish.

My sister, Anna's, two little darlings, Ryan and Eliza. They are hysterical and full of energy.

My parents newest cat, Tommy, (a 'she'). I say newest because they have gone through a good 15-20 cats over the years (not all of them work out). See, they're crazy (slightly creepy) cat people. I say that affectionately but also because I'm right there with them. My entire family is. I have been dying for another cat and my Dad supportively encourages me in my disappointment to keep trying and asking until Elliott budges. No dice yet.

Beckett admiring his new "Dance Baby Dance" CD from Grandma. It's essentially children's songs put to techno music. We put it on during the car ride home that night and he stayed awake the entire time bopping his head right along. Classic. That kid loves to dance to anything with a beat (don't tell him Santa is bringing him a "Let's Rock Elmo")! I do enjoy celebrating this "unique" holiday with my family. It is a fun and full day that we look forward to every year.

Next up? Nana and Papa's in the snow for Christmas. And yes, it will just be Christmas. No other holidays will be combined to prevent even more confusion than already likely exists after reading this!

Baking with The Bosch

2011-11-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

Remember I said that Elliott got me a Bosch Mixer for my birthday? I love it, and was determined to not let it be another item of mine that I neglected simply because it was "there" and would be "there" whenever I want to use it (so why rush)? Such is the case with my guitars, and my keyboard (one day a piano will replace it!), and--well I can't think of much else right now so I don't feel as bad as I thought I would! Success. I also knew that with baby 2 coming (let's get some names brainstorming here, ok?) that my time would be severely limited and I would be in constant "damage control" mode for a few weeks/months until I developed a steady routine. I have 3 months off of school and decided that instead of traditional "nesting," which I failed at with the last pregnancy, I would just focus more on the few crucial things I knew would be hardest to develop a habit of doing once the baby comes. SO, I have been working out several times a week. I have been allowing myself a little more down time. And perhaps most astonishingly, (for me at least) I have been making food. Preparing menus, searching recipes, and planning weekly grocery shopping trips to Target and Trader Joe's have made life a little more refreshing and quite honestly, fulfilling. I think the words I used with Brianne were, "I'm practically a real grown up now." Though I do make quite a few dinner meals from scratch, I'm much more enthralled by sweets and breads. I have yet to view baking as "addicting" or "therapeutic," but more so as rewarding and a labor of love. And I'd hardly consider myself a baker per se. I need to bake a little more consistently to say, "Oh, what do I do? I bake among other things (then list those other things)." Over the past week or so I have made:

Famously quick, quick french bread.

Cocoa Crinkle Cookies

The holy grail of breads (and four hours + two shopping trips later I GET it) the softest, butteriest crescent rolls ever

Not to mention an oatmeal, coconut, chocolate bar recipe that tasted so good as dough but baked into a bland granola bar. Sad.

Nonetheless, it is the holiday season, so what better time to get that bake on, right? I mean, the crescent rolls are for Thanksgiving tomorrow and I made the french bread just because, but also just because if the infamously temperamental crescent rolls didn't turn out, I'd have a backup. Looking at my hodge-podge of food pictures, I thought, "Why am I rambling on and on about food besides the fact that I'm pregnant?" Then I remembered (since I'm also very forgetful whilst pregnant) that, the first bread picture is literally just that--the first bread that I have made. Ever. I really don't count the dinner rolls I randomly made one careless Sunday afternoon several years ago WITHOUT a mixer. This is all because they had too much flour and became hard as rocks as soon as they cooled. Most ended up in the garbage. But last week, I baked bread, like a real grownup. And it felt great. Probably not unlike a sewer who makes their first whatever or a knitter who knits their first whatever. Baking bread not only made me truly reach the next level of love for my Bosch, but it spurred me on to develop another productive and "healthy" (subjective) activity in my life. On Black Friday (well, beginning tomorrow night since it's a two-day process), I will attempt another famous Brennan recipe--Sweet Sweet Cinnamon Rolls (do you like that the names I'm giving these baked goods are entirely made up or heinously embellished)? Bake on pregnant ones. Not to mention bake for pregnant ones.

Ham and Rolls.

2011-11-21T14:38:00.002-07:00

Hamming.

Do you like that cool cheese stick I drew? It's his favorite food.

I used color time as an opportunity to go over colors (HELLO) and a few letters. One of Beckett's favorite shows is Blue's Clues--especially since it comes on around the time his absolute favorite show, Go Diego Go! comes on. Conveniently, Blue's Clues helped him really learn and sound out "BOO!" (blue); not unlike the way Go Diego taught him how to say "NO" (he doesn't recognize the difference between "No, a kayak doesn't help you climb the mountain," and simply, "NO. NO. NO."). Over it. Rosie Perez could learn to say "No" in a less obnoxious way though. Oh well, again, over it. Can't really get upset. I say "No," more times a day than "Click La Camara." BACK to "Boo..." When Beckett was scribbling with the blue crayon he didn't seem to be too aware of the color he was using (understandable from a first-timer) until I drew a little blue paw print and the "BOOS BOOS BOOS!" began nonstop. It was good to have that coloring moment before the tantrums began all throughout the afternoon and evening. Beckett is a baby of balance, fortunately. Well, I can't even say that. He is a baby of positive and almost undeserving imbalance. Though he has a rough and spastic 12 hours, it comes on day 7 of Rotavirus (courtesy of Nursery during sick season). Again, it happens. Over it, baby stays home from Church for a few ~~weeks~~ months? Lesson learned. It was only fitting that I asked Elliott to add Beckett and me to his gym membership for a month on day 1 of Rotavirus (thinking nothing of his runs). I've been once. Without Beckett. On a Saturday (the intent being that if I took Beckett with me during the week I could fully relax and indulge on the weekends). It happens and it is fine. I am avoiding the real test of possibly joining the many women who pull their A's out of bed at 5:30am because that's what it takes. It probably wouldn't be such a bad thing anyways. Especially since I JUST went to Bed Bath and Beyond today to purchase some brand new jelly roll pans for my cinnamon rolls this week... Not to mention cooling racks as well for the cookies and crescent rolls I will also be making.

I Descended, A Dusty Gravel Ridge...

2011-11-10T14:19:00.001-07:00

There is something to be said about staying in a Ghost Town, which is precisely the state assumed by the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek before and after ski season. Venturing around the "Village," are many shops and restaurants preparing for their annual re-opening upon the return of the snow season at the end of November. We encountered a similar experience when we visited on our Honeymoon in May 2008. At one point, the hotel valet said to us, "You have the place all to yourselves, everyone left after the weekend." As intrigued as we now are as to the stark contrast of being there during peak season, we felt a little spoiled being able to go anywhere (that was open) without a wait as well as wandering around the resort with seeing only a few other guests.

There is also something to be said when it comes to going on the same getaway vacation after having children and feeling as if your body has aged 10 years instead of 3.5. The afternoon we arrived at Beaver Creek, I crawled into bed at 3pm and didn't get back out until 7 the next morning. I asked Elliott to order Domino's instead of taking me out. The previous two nights before leaving, I spent awake (packing and prepping) past midnight with only a few short hours of sleep in between. During the trip, I was popping fiber gummies and heading to the gym (see the second to last picture of my view from the elliptical) instead of gorging and loafing. Believe me, the after effects of such indulging (whether or not I'm on vacation) are intensified when pregnant. On our second to last day, I woke up with a migraine, nausea (sparing the details) and body aches and wound up soaking in a warm bath... at 5am. Thus, we actually didn't end up going to our "happy place"--Glenwood Springs! Slightly heartbreaking (I wanted to see Doc Holliday's grave), but on the other hand--we relaxed. In bed. Curtains open revealing the constant snowfall. All day. Now, I am certainly the last one to complain about my "hard vacation" because it was nothing short of liberating and relaxing. Just--insightful. Slightly awakening. And most of all, amusing to note the differences between 18 and no kids, and 22 with one and another on the way. It was great, and it taught me a thing or two about the vacation side of vacation--not the "doing" side of vacation. I miss it already. On a different note the hotel's premier restaurant (as in, we opted to just get dessert instead of a full meal there premier) hosts Thanksgiving dinner. I think one of these years, we will take our boys, ski a little (maybe not so much me), and vacation the holiday away.

On a related note to that note, the dessert we got was unbelievable. It was a goat cheese brownie (have I mentioned how goat cheese is my favorite cheese? Really, it is.) drizzled in salted caramel, served a la mode. Heaven. Actually, most everywhere we ate in Colorado was heaven. What we missed out on doing activity-wise, we certainly compensated in the food area (I mean, Cap'n Crunch French Toast)?!

Hallow-haunts the Sequel Pt. 2

2011-11-02T09:25:00.003-07:00

He looked like a baby off to a Rave. Elliott took the light bulb concept and ran with it. Beckett and Lily stuck together while the older kids went ahead. They are certainly the sweetest pair and knocked on doors (repeatedly until they opened) together.

I absolutely loved the Lines Family's 50s costumes--I don't think I said it enough that night. Family themes are absolutely the way to go and I don't know if Elliott and I will ever be able to stop coordinating our outfits with our children... Until they reach that "certain" age maybe. But maybe by then they will realize how fun it is to match, right?! Well, at least between now and then, we will most definitely be squeezing in this costume after new baby boy joins the action:

Hallow-haunts the Sequel

2011-10-29T16:09:00.001-07:00

Last night was the annual ASDOH Boo Bash--our last one ever! It is a bittersweet thing but Elliott is only 7 months away from graduating dental school and nothing can be more sweet than that.

Do you like our fantastically homemade costumes?!

Beckett is a lightbulb, Elliott is a plug and I'm an outlet. And yes, the plug and outlet were engineered to "plug in" (with the end result being a glo stick wearing light bulb of a baby).

Get the metaphor?

Oh, and please take notice of Elliott's even more perfect teeth (I didn't think that was even possible for him) but the braces are off and I can't get enough of his smile. His teeth are pretty much what drew me in like brilliant white tractor beams when I first met him (that and the red hair, of course).

Beckett was quite the lucky boy yesterday, having the opportunity to frequent TWO bounce houses in a matter of hours. The first one (below) seemed a little too daunting so he hung out on the steps (after spending the most painful hour waiting for the bigger kids to go inside) but we ~~nudged~~ forced him into the second later that night and he seemed to enjoy rolling around and being bounced by the other kids. At least it seemed like an efficient way to help toddlers learn stability and balance!

At Claire and Lily's lovely Montessori, they held a fall festival and Beckett and I were able to come with Brianne. It was "crazy hair" day as well (in case your were so concerned about the extremely long and bending spooks coming from Beckett's head) Aside from the outdoor carnival, there was an awesome reptile presentation inside and Beckett was able pet his first giant iguana and Burmese Python. Ahh yes, I remember the first time I pet a Burmese Python, no I really do! It was pre-tty cool.

Elliott and I are busy planning for our upcoming trip to Colorado--our happy place--and will do nothing but embrace the snow and cold. And let's not forget Beckett's first time Trick-or-Treating on Monday. Perhaps the parent costumes will stay at home though...

Say Click, Take a Pic

2011-10-24T14:19:00.000-07:00

My good friend Jessica and I attended a free photography workshop in Gilbert on Saturday. The class focused on taking your camera from "auto" to "manual" settings, and I was beyond impressed at how thoughtfully they presented the techniques in an understandable and thorough way. Of course, I forgot a notebook to write tips and techniques down but never fear, I did have my camera to take a picture of the whiteboard. Special thanks to Jake Johnson and his crew for putting on this great and more than affordable class!

Jessica diligently practicing her photography skills. They said if we wanted to use the pictures of the model they provided, we had to ask her and get the rights etc. etc., but Jessica looks like a model and so I figured she would be just as photo-friendly--though I didn't ask her for the rights to use her picture. Whoops. We'll have to work out a contract later.

In other news, Elliott and I are soon to begin working on our homemade (it's evolved into tradition) costumes this year for the annual ATSU Boo Bash, not to mention Beckett's first time going Trick-or-Treating this year.

Home.

2011-10-12T13:16:00.001-07:00

Elliott's "Welcome Home" cookie pie we made in my new Bosch. I did the "Welcome" and Elliott did the "Home Elliott." It was a team effort and a divine cookie in looks (clearly) and taste-- thanks to the best chocolate chip recipe on Earth (courtesy of Trevor and Brianne's dental school cookbook). Key ingredient: butter.

Elliott just returned home Sunday night after being in North Dakota for 6 weeks on a dental rotation. It was less than exciting for me, despite the fun week spent up there in the middle of it. I was talking to my good friend from school today (who is also married) about the little things in marriage that make it everything it is for you. It's not the anniversaries, the gifts, the trips, the money made and spent. It's getting excited to cook and bake together. Watching our shows that have been filling up the DVR over the past 6 weeks because I refused to watch them alone. Making plans for after the rotation was over including family dinners out, upcoming date nights, and of course, park trips with Beckett.

In my Tests and Measurements class that I took in July for my Master's Program, we discussed life activities that individuals with impaired IQ's would not be able to aptly perform (i.e. drive, hold a job, etc.).I, feeling slightly snarky and less inhibited since Brianne was taking the class with me shouted out, "BEING MARRIED." The professor laughed and said "No." To which I simply replied, "Well, I live my marriage every day!" He had to stop the class because he was still laughing and said, "No. Nono. But I've certainly never heard that one before!" I'm sure Brianne reallllly appreciated being associated with me that night. It was a fairly goofy and unplanned comment and I too, laughed at myself. While it certainly didn't fit into the category we were discussing in class (and I understand that all walks of life can be in happy and successful marriages), I have thought of that night several times and reaffirm to myself, "I really do live my marriage everyday." It is something Elliott and I work at constantly, and yes I know that we have "only" been married three and a half years. However, we listen to and are receptive of one another. We openly express our values, priorities and goals. We have tools that will prepare us for the road ahead, despite the unknown. Developing these tools took years and continue to benefit from evaluation refinement; What's working here. What's not.

I often think of a comment my dad made when he was Bishop several years ago in reference to a BYU devotional given by Spencer W. Kimball , "Most any man and any woman can be happy and successful in a marriage together if they respect each other and apply the Gospel in their lives (President Kimball referred to it as, 'if both are willing to pay the price')." It is a loaded statement I know, and I have often speculated its validity. However, time and time again I have thought of it while observing the marriages of those I know as well as my own and it rings true in every aspect (though understandably, there are many who have different standards and religious beliefs, but have successful marriage and those should be valued and respected just as much). It's a perk that Elliott and I naturally click together so well, but that really is only half of it.

The Farm (Part 2)

2011-10-08T16:25:00.002-07:00

For my birthday, Elliott surprised me with a night at the Twin Oaks Resort on the shores of the gorgeous Lake Metigoshe (in addition to THIS)! I had never heard of it either. I really am a big fan of isolated beauty and hidden wonders (New Zealand??), and this place was no different.

Jonny, Krista, and Pam very thoughtfully took care of Beckett for the night then met us up at the lake the next day for fishing. Max was a lot of fun to watch as he patiently and intently held the pole. He even had a few promising and exciting bites, but time would not allow us to stay too long.

Beckett wouldn't let Elliott or I stay too long either, and we decided to take him back to our room for a bath (or swim?) in the whirlpool. Funny thing about a lot of these Midwestern states: iron water. I had never heard of it either... too. Aside from the startling sight, it's not really gross but... kind of like the harshest of any hard water you've heard of or felt. It actually started to stain some of the boys' clothes with a rust color before the plumber came. That's when I learned about a fascinating little product called "Iron Out."

Beckett and Max in Nana's and Papa's unisex treehouse--complete with roof hatch. Couldn't get enough of the camo juxtaposed with the pink. It was certainly one of the coolest treehouses I've ever been in.

Max loving Nana's "magic pumpkin patch" courtesy of the Bottineau, North Dakota Wal Mart. Beckett is of that age where a pumpkin will still topple him over so you throw him a gourd and let him have at it, but Max is a fun glimpse into the world of boys as their world only becomes that much more exciting as they become more aware of what's going on. The past few days of cooler weather have made me think of nothing but The Farm--now if only Arizona could jump on board with some greenery.

Park Baby

2011-10-06T21:01:00.001-07:00

Yesterday marked the first day (ever) of park-season for our house. Beckett is a busy body, as I'm sure most other little toddler boys are. He is carefree, and gets the giggles out of most anything; happiest when he has some music to dance to or some food in his mouth--really, he's an easy-to-please, Doug Heffernan kind of boy. Beckett has taken to "finding his true voice" lately. It is not yelling, shouting, saying "No," it is screaming so sharp and high pitched that only dogs should be able to hear.

It's important to recognize your victories, big or small, which, for me, primarily consist of keeping my "cool." After days of being worn down by THE screeching, the cool was lost. Calm "pleases" were turned into harsh imperatives. Relaxed hands were turned into clenched fists. Looking down at my son changed to leveling my face mere inches from his. All the while, my sweet toddler was giggling, not out of animosity or cruelty, but because he just loves to play and interact with most anyone in most anyway. In a single swoop it seemed as though he was out of the tub, a towel briskly wiped over his little frame, and he was put to bed; damp body, wet hair. I told him I loved him but that This, has got to stop and that I was at the end. As I walked out, I heard him blow me a kiss.

The door was shut and I was too irritated my "157 Days Without A Freakout" counter had just zeroed out (yes, that's a made up number), that I didn't return his gesture. I stewed, I pouted, I remained frustrated, I justified: I'm pregnant, my husband has been gone for 6 weeks (yeah, true story), and quite frankly, I'm young and still in the "first-time" mom stage. I thought, absolutely those are valid, and absolutely I should cut myself some slack because I have been a stellar mother the past 6 weeks and take complete pride in it. I then thought, when the fallacies of human life take place, all too often do we justify and say "Do better next time," without correcting this time. It had been 20 minutes since Beckett had been down, and I refused to let his night be soured by a lesson I am still learning (though really, not much sours this boy). I opened his door to find his eyelids in that twilight period moments before slumber takes over. I picked him up, blanket and all, and quietly apologized before singing, "My Favorite Things" to him in the rocking chair.

In true Beckett fashion, while resting his head on his teary-eyed, pregnant mother, he burped. Loudly. Then 2 minutes later he burped again. Then, as if knowing I wanted to make up for the kisses lost earlier, he kissed me smack on the mouth over and over again all the while repeating "MMMUAH! MMMUAH! MMMUAH!" I think I have been especially blessed to soon be surrounded by three boys in my house. They do and will always calm me, gently correct and teach me, level me, love me. Plus, it probably will take three males to balance out the hormones of this one female.

The Farm (Part 1)

2011-10-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

First S'mores

Getting some much needed help blowing out my candles on my Oatmeal Birthday Cake. Heaven.

The lawnmower ride wiped away Beckett's tears. I may have bumped his head with my bulky camera lifting him up to Elliott.

A "Foodie" at heart.

Wilma.

I had never been to Pam and Jay's farm in North Dakota and heard nothing but quaint and peaceful stories about it. The Brennan brothers have been "stationed" there for quite a while on a dental rotation (have I mentioned enough how exciting it is for Elliott (and Jonny) to finally be in his last year of dental school)?! Krista and I, along with our lot of children, were able to go visit our husbands. The weather and greenery were perfect. It's such a healthy place--well, despite a few unfortunate bouts of sickness. Though I may like to be the sort of person with one hand on the city and one on isolation, the seclusion of the farm was eye opening to realize that there are indeed places where your children can run through the fields without fear of cars, strangers, crowds, etc. (well, mind you there are a few wild animals out there), you can have campfires only feet from your front door, and you can see the night sky, clear as...day? Yes, the farm was a good visit. It was a good break. It was a full house. It was a wonderful birthday. And it was a good place to feel truly, undisturbed and quiet.

PS, did you watch Conference this past weekend? I actually found myself watching a little more than falling in and out of sleep. Maybe it helped that I didn't make orange rolls this time. I'll have to test this hypothesis in April by making orange rolls and seeing if I can't pay as good of attention. We couldn't believe it when President...Elder... Cook's name was called to speak next: go here to watch.

Brothers

2011-09-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

I am having another boy.

I can NOT wait.

Now the visions ensue of two little boys wearing matching shirts at Disneyland, two little boys going hunting with their Dad, two little boys being dragged through department stores with their mom for back to school shopping (refusing her every desire to have them match some more), two little boys on little dirt bikes, two little boys going to sports practice, and two little boys with matching sack lunches for school (I know I could swing that) and, of course, two little boys going to the same sweet Montessori preschool.

I know, accompanying those visions are two little boys making two huge messes, two little boys pulling each other's hair out, two little boys screaming at the top of their lungs, two little boys kicking the seats in front of them (anyplace) in addition to kicking each other, and two little boys becoming a little too attached to their video games and TV time.

I know, though, that I have the best husband who is a good example of a good brother; and who has a brother that is the same.

The Brennan Brother's celebrating Christmas 1990. When I took the picture out of the album, the back read, "What could be sweeter?" in, what I'm assuming to be their Grandmother's handwriting.

Pre-Pre-Preschool

2011-09-14T12:58:00.001-07:00

Beckett is not quite 18 months old yet, and, while he is just shy of the halfway point until he starts preschool, I thought it wouldn't hurt to explore one of the most fascinating and sweetest Montessori schools in the Valley. I'll keep the name just between me and me as two of Brianne's girls still attend. Trevor and Brianne invited me to their girls' open house and I simply couldn't resist (remember the Master's program "window shopping")? I'm a sucker for just going to "check it out." Beckett was in heaven. Outside was a hilly grassy area where he let loose to run around, in one room were children and puzzles everywhere, in another coloring, and in another, constructive toys and activities that enforced some aspect of learning. In actuality, all of the "works" that Beckett played with were purposeful in one way or another. Super cool.

The future of education frightens me. I think it's one of the reasons I am doing the School Counseling Master's program instead of the Community Counseling one. I want to look and challenge education in the face and take, as well as enable youth to take, a more proactive stance towards preparing for the future and its infinite possibilities. Regardless of where my life after this program takes me, it has already been worth it if simply to enforce the need for me to be involved in--though not controlling or overbearing--and facilitating of my children's educational decisions and post-high school ambitions. Beckett you deserve the best. You too, baby-coming-soon (we find out the gender tomorrow...thoughts)?

Beckett likes to employ a "dead weight" tactic on his pregnant mother (do you like how the child-inflicted guilt has already started)? Regardless, I don't let it fly, but by the end of the night, my arms won't always let me pull him back up the second his body starts to go limp. This baby is 27 pounds of food--that he's eaten over the course of his lifetime. It's not as frustrating though when there's tons of puzzles and activities to catch his attention to move to the part of the room where children aren't being threatened by a little blonde boy slapping his hands on their displays and activities.

Beckett reading his favorite type of book with textured pages.

I know, I've been pretty "meh" in regards to blogging lately. I promise the flavors of "Crumbs" are still rich enough in my mouth to still do a review. There's a few other social commentaries (perhaps unwanted) I'd like to make and life updates I'd like to share. The past few weeks have caused me to be employed by a few more obligations and responsibilities than I am used to. When that happens, even in my free time, I don't feel too much like blogging and don't really watch TV. I suppose it's hard for me to get out of the busy mode at the end of the day and convince myself that I actually can wait until tomorrow to finish or do something. I have taken up napping on the weekends and that has been nice. Why wouldn't it be?

Friday Favorites-Songs

2011-08-26T14:15:00.001-07:00

This list was a hard one to make (I know, rough life, boo hoo) and I'm not fully satisfied with it. I would most certainly make a list of only-Beatle songs but perhaps that will be for another Friday. I had pizza today, it was well deserved (thanks to ASU Library Storage)! School starts next week and I am less than thrilled for some reason. I enjoyed my relaxed class in July followed by a relaxing three weeks off and now feel spoiled. This 8-week session will more than likely be coupled with long nights, long commutes, and long hours of homework. It's what I asked for and what I want and I'm sure come Monday, will appreciate something new to keep me busy--or to give more life to my routine, depending on how positive I plan on being. Either way, here's to just reaching the halfway point (credit-wise) with my Master's program! Who knows how a second baby will affect the plan, but I look at it much differently than I did during my undergrad, kid-free time at ASU; passing up opportunities to travel, be at home, go out with friends, etc.--anything--for school. The priorities have flipped now, (though no, I will not skip out on class to hit it up on Mill Avenue) primarily in family life and the desires, but obligations that lie there. That's the way I like it and it has been a good self-help way to exercise anxiety control and time management. If I have a sick *contagious* child and can't attend class (such was the case several months ago) I am ok. If I have advanced plans to visit family in another state, that comes first. If I have a newborn, a toddler, a c-section recovery, and a husband finishing up dental school, I won't balk at the idea of possibly postponing a class or an entire Master's program, and I certainly wouldn't want to be anywhere else than home--not even school. I believe in taking your education, in whatever arena it may be, as far as you can, but never hesitating to place family life first and foremost.

Us in California last week. Elliott is not a big picture person, but is a good sport and, to his credit, was a little more smiley as the snapping and clicking wore on. Like his bic'ed hair? Yeah, it could take a little getting used to but I'm doubtful it will stay this... shiny... for long. He got his top braces off Wednesday (I missed the ball with another photo-op there) and his perfect teeth are no longer hidden behind the wire.

Songs to keep me sane:

Bixby Canyon Bridge-Death Cab for Cutie
First Day of My Life- Bright Eyes
What Sarah Said-Death Cab for Cutie
Pitseleh-Elliott Smith
I'll See You In My Dreams-Joe Brown
Brand New Colony- The Postal Service
Old Friends/Bookends Theme- Simon and Garfunkel
All These Things That I've Done-The Killers
Snails- The Format
Pablo Picasso- Citizen Cope

The Land of Sun and Fun.

2011-08-24T09:38:00.003-07:00

For my super sweet nephew, Brennan's birthday, Brianne, Elliott and I (and Brennan, of course) ventured off to the land of sun and ocean where we basked in perfect weather, fresh air and strippers (unfortunately, but more of that later). The main purpose of our trip was to see one of our very favorite bands, Death Cab for Cutie perform at the famed Greek Theatre. Please give them a listen, and don't base judgment off "Meet me on the Equinox" from the Twilight album because that song is truly sub-par. Want some recommendations for good songs to check out? Ok! ((I Will Follow You Into the Dark--I would think is their best known, Cath, Bixby Canyon Bridge, Lack of Color, Death of an Interior Decorator, A Movie Script Ending, and SO many more)).

Ignore the creepin' couple to the right.

On Saturday, Elliott and Brennan had the opportunity to get used and abused by some of the most insane rides on the planet. I won't lie, I love roller coasters. It took me many, many years of bribing, forcing, goading, etc. etc. by my family to go on any ride remotely intense, but I can now say that driving away from Six Flags was slightly painful as I am pregnant (rollercoasters mean shaken baby syndrome in utero) and know that Brianne and I would most definitely have enjoyed screaming right along side our boys. However, I know we had an equally as wonderful a time shopping--it's Los Angeles, it doesn't get much better--and eating. Oh, remember how I obsessed over wanting to try Crumbs? Yeah, I did. It was slightly overwhelming. So many emotions. Please expect a hideously dramatic blog post without any pictures of my own because we devoured those cupcakes like THAT. But, find out how they match up to Sprinkles later.

Can you spot Brennan? Looking very pint-sized under that A.

Brennan: Happy, Elliott: Happy, Brianne and Alisa: Unhappy. Texting our SOS and Goodbyes to loved ones while riding a bus in Los Angeles.

After getting back from Six Flags, we knew we wanted to spend our last night relaxed, and full of food. Wanting to branch out, we decided to put our name down at a restaurant with an hour wait and look for other possibilities. Apparently the restaurants that were just "a little ways down the road" ended up being 2 miles down the road (meaning, the way back would be UP the hilly road). When no acceptable restaurants were found, we made several failed attempts at hailing a cab, Elliott got in a slight tiff with a crazy cab dispatcher on the phone, and we proceeded to just stand there dumbfounded at how we possibly ended up in this situation. Of course, us not being your typical public transit riders, did NOT notice a "bus stop" sign only a few yards away until a bus actually stopped at it. All at once, we raced on and I think Elliott dumped whatever cash he had into the slot for the 5 minute ride up the road. We made it to our initial restaurant where we had put our name down "just in case." We walked back in after the ordeal, dejected, a mere 5 minutes before time. Apparently a lot can happen while waiting for a dinner reservation. The bus ride was still, "the best $6 ever spent on the trip."

I really do have a new-found love of the beach. It is calming and never gets old to people watch and look into the distance as far as you think possible. It was a perfect way to end our trip (regardless of my camera battery dying shortly after getting there, shameful). Oh to live to closer, but the few and far between trips really make the experience better. But still... oh to live closer. Another great trip down, and I know so many more to go. Oh, and the strippers you were wondering about? Apparently our supposedly and seemingly nice hotel was part of a benefit called "It's For the Kids." Confusing, considering the people who were apparently part of it. Elliott looked it up after returning home and none other than Hugh Hefner's picture pop up. The premise was, "Partying for a Purpose" and our hotel served as some sort of waiting area for people traveling back and forth from a certain scandalous mansion to "Party for a Purpose." Classy. I'm sure "the kids" will appreciate it.

Bowling for Busyness.

2011-08-15T16:06:00.002-07:00

Elliott and I went bowling on Friday night. We don't bowl, as shown on the above picture (Elliott's score was a 110 and mine was a 118--my best EVER). Well, Elliott did almost hit 200 on his first game--the natural athlete he his. I know he wasn't letting me win though. Right? This week will be a busy week, which makes me happy since there's still two weeks (thankfully) until school starts. Elliott leaves for a little time in a little while (appreciate the vagueness?) for a clinical externship and I hope that this "busyness" momentum will last long enough for me to not go insane while he is away--or at least remember that not all weeks are busy so appreciate the ones that are, and the ones that aren't! We are going to California soon where I am determined to finally sample "Crumbs"--the only place I think *could* hold a candle to Sprinkles. I know, I haven't mentioned that place in a little while. Surprised? Elliott and I have been off of sweets for quite some time. Actually, Elliott has been "off of sweets" and I'm tired of getting sick from not having anyone to share my sweets with (thus eating it alllllll by myself). I haven't been to the beach in the summertime in years, literally. I've never been much of a beach person, but have always been more excited to go since being with Elliott, he loves it and I do too now. Everything's just a little more exciting and fun with him.

Friday Favorites: Restaurants

2011-08-12T13:28:00.005-07:00

A little dazed (and probably heat stricken) at the splashpark. This little Foodie will make the perfect eating companion--especially when more of those teeth come in.

Can't wait to put him in this thoughtful and very fitting present from Brianne.

This list can probably never be finalized. It depends on where I'm at in life (i.e. what I'm craving when I'm pregnant or when I allow myself to indulge anytime I want (those days ended when a nearly-impossible-to-defeat set of love handles decided to "join me at the hip"). As you can see from below (and judge from my list of movies) I'm easy to please. I think food doesn't always have to come from high-end restaurants to be just as satisfying as a homemade, or quick take-out (or fast food?) meal. So here you have it, my current favorite places to eat:

1. Houston's (food doesn't always have to be fancy but... everything comes together here. Perfectly).
2. Bandera (same restaurant group as Houston's but a more Southwestern style. I don't go here enough)!
3. Costa Vida (I fit so nicely into the Mormon stereotype, but those salads is GOOD, overly popular or not).
4. Pei Wei (You get much more bang for your buck here than at P.F. Chang's but... I don't frequent either enough to know if the varying menu's are worth varying restaurant picks. Correct me if I'm wrong? I'd love to know).
5. Taco Bell (I'm pregnant. It happens once a week. When I'm not pregnant, I won't touch anything from here without a grimace).
6. Carrabba's (the Margherita Pizza and The Johnny make an addicting combo to share).
7. Firehouse Subs (I am not a sub person. Apparently that was just because I never had warm, hearty subs from Firehouse. The meatball and brisket are enough to turn any Vegetarian back to meaty side of life).
8. California Pizza Kitchen (MUCH better than "Sauce." So much to choose from)!
9. Wetzel's Pretzels (again, I have never been so simply satisfied with food than I am by this place. I can devour a cheese pretzel and an unsalted order of pretzel bits before Beckett can finish his one bitz. Sorry Beckett. I've cheated you out of many a bitz).

10. Chipotle (Yuck. Am I really saying that? I typically am a MAJOR opponent of that place. The overwhelming cilantro and EVERYTHING tasting the same. Everything. However, ever since slowwwwllly warming up to the chicken and steak tacos (which somehow taste different--Elliott thinks I'm crazy) it has been a budding addiction. Just the tacos though... Everything else is well... Still yuck to me. I'm going tonight)!

I do have to say, last night Elliott and I ate at the locally popular "Flancers" where I ordered "The Perfect Prickly Pear" chicken sandwich (the picture opportunity was eaten but go HERE to see someone else's). It's not a whole chicken breast, but rather chunked... I'm usually wary of any sort of poultry that isn't shaved (it has a tendency to be too dry for me). Anyhow, they marinate this chicken IN prickly pear sauce giving it a light pink color and it is GOOOOD. Very very rich and the fries didn't live up to their fame, but I was shocked at this new food discovery. Again, like the subs, I'm not a sandwich person. I figure I can make a decent and satisfying sandwich from home. After last night, however, I know no sandwich I make would be nearly as satisfying as Flancer's! PS, we had the pizza there once and I can't even remember what it was (which is rare since I have a BIG thing for pizzas from different restaurants). What I'm saying is, go for the sandwiches.

WOW I'm PREGNANT!

What Else Could I Possibly Need?

2011-08-11T13:34:00.004-07:00

"25 percent of young American women would rather win America's Next Top Model than the Nobel Peace Prize."

I recently read this article and thought about it. A lot. I think it could probably be titled "How to Talk to Girls, Little and Big Alike." Instead of forcing you to read the article right this very second, its premise lies in shifting our "small-talk" and "ice breaker" conversations with little girls (who all really do look so sweet and cute in their own way) about their appearance to their interests and activities. I started reading the article and rolled my eyes. "I am NOT a feminist in any way," I reaffirmed to myself. I nodded my head along with Bloom as she contested about giving compliments on looks,

"What's wrong with that? It's our culture's standard talking-to-little-girls icebreaker, isn't it? And why not give them a sincere compliment to boost their self-esteem? Because they are so darling I just want to burst when I meet them, honestly."

Then I read the rest and admired the presented points. The article is not feministic in the least, it is another valiant call to circle the wagons around our youth. I thought to the new women I meet at Church, at a party (since I'm SO popular and get invited to SO many har har), or at any function. I usually step into conversations with a fast-paced introduction of, "ILIKEyourHAIR!" And I really do, I have made a conscious effort to be genuine in my comments and compliments. But it is still a relatively quick and superficial scan of the person. NOW. I will still tell people in my awkward way, "ILOVEYOURTOPDIDYOUGETITATANTHRO??!Oh...you didn't?" I will still tell my five nieces and other sweet girls I meet just how darling and cute they are if I so please. I will still secretly wish for a compliment here or there (or everywhere). I will still buy my bag, my top, my skirt, and mentally tally the nods and compliments, feeling excited and honestly grateful for such nice faces who greet me. I truly truly appreciated this article though. It has caused me to alter my intentions of compliment-giving and conversation-starting. I always need to be a little (LOT) more thoughtful in my way of speaking and instead of sputtering out a genuine, but perhaps empty compliment because I am nervous, I will listen a little more and be patient for the real girl (or guy perhaps?) to come out behind the clothes and appearance.

"Teaching girls that their appearance is the first thing you notice tells them that looks are more important than anything."

Friday Favorites

2011-08-05T13:52:00.004-07:00

I make lists to keep me sane. It's actually something Elliott and I have in common. I don't mean the typical grocery (which I do make) or to-do (which I should make) lists. I like making lists of my favorite movies, my favorite shows, my favorite books (even if they are all children's books), my favorite eateries, my favorite candy, etc., etc., etc. It's kind of like my version of knitting or needlework. It keeps my mind busy and is oddly enjoyable. SO here is my first list that I've made 10 times over: my favorite movies. I actually had it up to 50, solid, films, but it was done on a writing notepad app I had on an old phone and disappeared when it was wiped for re-sale. Shameful. Some of these movies are quite shameful too, actually. Oh well, different loves for different reasons. I'm sure this isn't even my "real" list, but I worked with what my memories had.

1. A Hard Day's Night (1964)

2. Help! (1965)

3. The Sound of Music (1965)

4. The Notebook (2004)

5. Forrest Gump (1994)

6. Pay It Forward (2000)

7. Life Is Beautiful (La vita è bella) (1997)

8. Roman Holiday (1953)

9. The Count of Monte Cristo (2002)

10. To Kill A Mockingbird (1962)

11. The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

12. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

13. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989)

14. The 40-Year-Old-Virgin (2003) Even edited, this movie makes me laugh harder than no other.

15. The Color Purple (1985)

16. Awakenings (1990)

17. Hook (1991)

18. Stranger Than Fiction (2006)

19. Beauty and the Beast (1991)

20. October Sky (1999)

21. Cinderella Man (2005)

22. Nacho Libre

23. Dead Poets Society (1989)

24. City of Angels (1998)

25. What’s Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)

Honorable Mention: Mystery Science Theatre 3000: Overdrawn at the Memory Bank (because Elliott is probably disgusted at my list enough, this would likely put him over the edge).

I am loving this sequence of events. M&M's then M&M crash. Beckett loves Kacey. And M&M's. Hopefully he loves Kacey more though...

Dear One

2011-08-03T13:49:00.000-07:00

(In C-section terms, that means closer to the 7th)

Remember how I said I wanted a February baby because I am over-obsessed with months like a crazy person?

Elliott spoils this princess.

Birthday Day

2011-08-01T08:05:00.001-07:00

TODAY Elliott turns 26.

We went to Benihana's on Saturday to celebrate. Ever been? It was fantastic, I wish our chef would have accepted tips in his little hat, it held so much. On our way out to eat, we checked the mail and in it was Elliott's passing score on the NBDE II (congratulations to both Brennan brothers as they both passed). It made the night that much more enjoyable and we didn't mind if we did venture out for some teppanyaki.

Do you like that I'm eating his free birthday ice cream?

It's ok, he did have a bite or two. I made sure to get chocolate, since he's not a big chocolate fan (to lessen the temptation and all). Wasn't that nice?

I have been beyond impressed with Elliott's dieting, self-control, and motivation and keep wondering, "Where were you when I had to drop a pound or 50?" It's ok, no bitterness there, I promise; it's his birthday! Regardless, he is still motivating me now to eat healthy and cook from home. A little bit of planning on our shared Cozi shopping list and meal planning app has made it fun to stay in, eat better, and go to sleep without feeling so blah after the meal. I promise I wasn't paid to say that.

Back to the real deal here: Elliott is the best. Most people say that. Well, a lot of people get distracted by his manly and full beard and talk about that first but that's because they think it's the best too. I have been begging Elliott to let me make his mom's oatmeal cake for tonight, but he and I both know we would eat half the thing in one night. And the other half the next morning. Alas, today could very well be one with me following Elliott around eating his free birthday restaurant goodies and perhaps hoping he'll take a bite or two to lessen the guilt. Ok maybe I won't after all the scorn I know I'll receive, but I would want him to do the same if I were seriously dieting. We have a special relationship with our food. It's another thing I love about Elliott. I know regardless, today will not be complete without some messy kisses from Beckett (who just learned how to give them and what "KISSES!" means) as well as some messy kisses from me. I'll have a lot of food on my face, remember?

Elliott hard at work grilling our turkey burgers.

The look on his face is one of sheer motivation to grill--not crabbiness.

Butterfly in the Sky

2011-07-21T14:09:00.002-07:00

I don't like to read. Elliott doesn't like to read. Well, I think that we do like to read, actually. We've both bought and read books and enjoyed them. We've also purchased several books with the intentions of reading them. The intention is still there, it's just lower, much lower, on the priorities list than the average person's intentions to read. Those people actually do follow through with their intentions. I know, sad sad. I do, however, LOVE children's books. I could have bookshelves and bookshelves filled top to bottom with hardbound, soft cover, plush, board, pop-up, lift-the-flap, pull-the-tab, and the family favorite, touch-and-feel, children's books. I could read them all day. I think I read so many books in elementary school (chapter and picture) that I got enough of a boost throughout my upper education to save me in times when cliff notes, skimming, and BS'ing were all I had in a paper or group discussion. I think all of life's most fundamental lessons can be found in one children's book or another. Today I received my copy of "Everybody Poops" in the mail. I bought a copy off of Amazon for my potty-training nephew and thought, "Well I know I'll need a copy for myself." Regardless of any interest Beckett may have, I love this book too much to not place it in my house where childhood memories of giggles can surface each time I open the cover.

I constantly see Beckett with a book in his hand, "Goodnight Moon," "Baby Touch and Feel Farm" (and Christmas gift from Nana and Papa), and of course his usual collection of Sesame Street board books. Today it was "Waiting for Cookie," a book where Cookie Monster learns patience (though not very well, in this reader's opinion). Beckett is flipping through them while a show is on, hardly paying attention to the images on TV. He is pulling them off the top shelf of his bookshelf to create a suitable pile on the ground for him to pull from when his current book will not do anymore. I'll pull him onto my lap and start reading the pages, allowing him to turn them of course. This is simply not enough for the boy who wants nothing more than to get every ounce of doing and being in during a single day. Hopefully this will mean a more revved up enthusiasm for reading. Which, for the record, I may not be in a position to say this as I am severely lacking in the habitual aspect of reading, but I really don't care much for the Kindle's. I'm a fan of the etextbook for iPad, but not much else. Maybe it's just because I like having and getting stuff now and then... and often. And when I want a book for one reason or another, I like the thrill of going to the store, wandering through the aisles of Barne's and Noble, smelling the fresh pages, and finding my book. I like closing the cover and hearing the audible "thud" when I place it on the coffee table. It's a "thud" sound because if I actually get through a book, I feel as if I've just run a marathon and am proudly collapsing on the ground... Or in this case, a table.

Gritty Baby.

It's Diet Time

2011-07-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

Last week Elliott chose today, as the first day of the rest of his healthy eating life. He finished part 2 of his dental boards yesterday (yay!) and now won't have to devote nights and weekends to studying and fast food (though the food part wasn't really that "burdensome"). Yesterday I went to the ever-trusty Trader Joe's to pick up some healthy eats, and he went to GNC for protein powder. Of course, though we both continue to make strides towards eating healthy, that certainly doesn't mean we can't still watch one of our favorite shows, "Man vs Food." Please think back to THIS post. I was an even less consistent blogger than I am now, and didn't post a follow up, so you can look to the picture above for that. Elliott didn't finish the 6lb burrito (and neither did Adam Richman) but we still had tons of fun in Vegas, and he really did look great in his pink, "Certified Weenie" t-shirt.

So, I suppose it was NO surprise that when we sat down last night to watch the Las Vegas episode of "Man vs Food" that Elliott's picture pops up. Yep, the camera briefly scrolls down the "Weenies Wall of Shame" and there he was. He couldn't have been prouder of himself--and neither could I.

Scroll down to this picture:

Blurry quality aside, it is the Brennan Brother's in the middle of their successful attempt at dominating "The Big One" at Venezia's Pizzeria last week. The two of them consumed a 24" cheese in 52 minutes. I know, I thought it was cute that they unintentionally wore matching Google IO t-shirts too. Regardless of this new and promising diet, I think seeing himself on the paramount of food shows has spurred Elliott on to aspire towards bigger and better food challenges. I think we'll need a MUCH bigger bottle of Tums at our house.

Back 2 Scoo

2011-07-10T11:21:00.001-07:00

I was SO enthusiastic to change my makeshift whiteboard calendar from June to July. It meant the end of a horrid month and the beginning of a bright, new, opportunistic one. I say opportunistic because I finally had the opportunity to have a life. It wasn't until a solid 2 days after drawing up this calendar (with the help of Elliott who drew the patriotic doodles on the "4") that I realized my 31-day July calendar was really a 26-day calendar and that I had left out Saturday... But not really because "2" was in the right place, wasn't it? I thought, "Apparently, I already need to get back to school." Well har har har, my thought was heard by none other than Popo O'Brien--I'm sorry, is "popo" rude? I did capitalize it. It's all I can muster out right now. He pulled me over for speeding--I know, shameful-- on Thursday afternoon. After giving me the ticket accompanied by an unnecessary and trite lecture, he said, "If you haven't done traffic school in the past 2 years you can do that to make it all go away." That guy gets a big MEH from me. "Meh" in blog terms means he got a lot of other things out of me after I got home but they probably aren't blog, much less public, appropriate. I should have listened to my very hip African American studies professor who, at the end of class would ALWAYS say, "If you see the PO-lice, go da other way." That guy always got a big "MMMHMMM" out of me in my most soulful voice. Elliott was rather impressed with my turnaround as I got the ticket 1:30 pm Thursday and completed my online traffic school at 5:00 pm Friday. That crap just can't hang over my head for a single minute, much less ruin my Friday nite date nite by being on the "To Do" list.

My thoughts exactly.

In happier thoughts, did you know they make baby Pillow Pets? That was an UN-regrettable impulse buy. That little pillow inside of a baby's crib is a sight to squeal at.

We Commemorate Every Holiday With Food

2011-07-04T13:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Fourth of July

(Independence Day breakfast at The Egg and I)

From Our Cheeser to Yours

It Has Been Like This:

2011-06-30T13:26:00.000-07:00

A smashed, Sprinkle's Cupcake represents my current state.

Violated by the heat. Out of Commission. Deprived of anything that once made it look normal, cute. Too forgetful to take care of itself (ok, maybe it was I who was forgetful and allowed my precious cupcake to get ruined, but stay with me). Numerous opportunities for enjoyment crushed (by school).

Brianne has brought me several Sprinkle's cupcakes this month. It has certainly brightened my self-inflicted house arrest because of school (though she has been just as busy)! This was the first cupcake she saved me, I was running all over that day so I quickly shoved it in my bag, ran my errands in the 110 degree heat, and remembered it too late. Shameful. Poor little cupcake.

It was only fitting for this month. Only right.

Last week was Southwest's BIGGEST, and I mean BIGGEST, sale of the year: Their anniversary sale. Oddly enough, it is this shopper's favorite sale of the year. I stayed up until 11:30 on the last night of it panicked as to where and how we could possibly and reasonably take advantage of these steals. Flights to the East Coast, $120 each way (and that included non-stop to NYC & DC), flights to San Francisco $80. We started planning mock trips and creating Excel budget spreadsheets (though I refuse to talk about Excel anymore after my statistics class). Elliott eventually put the decision into my hands and I could have assaulted him for making the most indecisive person EVER decide such an important thing for her. I may have almost cried, like this is such a "hard" and "difficult" and "burdensome" thing, and then I slapped myself in the face. We had also thought back to Beaver Creek. We discussed the things we could do again, the differences of doing it in the Fall as opposed to Summer. Again, I may have almost started to cry being the excessively EXCESSIVELY nostalgic person I am, but HEY, Elliott was getting plenty sappy about it as well.

We will return to Beaver Creek this Fall.

Two days after booking our flight but not the hotel, we received the above little postcard in the mail. Yes, that's a picture of the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek reaching out to us as if they already knew our decision and were simply saying, "Welcome Back." Oh the magic of May still pushing me through June.

Beckett enjoying what apparently I only thought of as a mistake: visiting the outdoor mall park on a hot Saturday afternoon. Looks like it's indoor malls from now on--I certainly don't have a problem frequenting the Chandler or Scottsdale malls... Please mind his black eye. He pulled a blow dryer onto his face. Oopsie.

Wish Fish Wish

2011-06-20T22:08:00.003-07:00

Beckett looks like an owl in this picture. I was always told I had eyes like my Great Uncle, dark, and so brown they looked black. I think Beckett's are beautiful and deep. Beckett has a fascination with toothbrushes and on a given day, probably spends a good hour brushing his teeth. We didn't get a father's day pic of him and Elliott yesterday, and we didn't get one the year before either. Shameful. Definitely my least favorite unintentional tradition. For Father's Day, Elliott and I attended Church where they passed out root beer floats to all the men. Elliott and I spent our Sabbath resting (peacefully napping away the afternoon) and watching the Newlywed Game--a weekend favorite. I made egg salad sandwiches for lunch and he barbecued chicken for dinner. Something about a homemade meal on a Sunday makes the week start off extra right. Elliott is the best father and I never imagined anything less. He is my human holiday and Beckett's playground and comfort. I also granted Elliott one wish... Which he used... That night... I love the ideation of wishes and everything they mean and can mean if you wish it. They are selfless of the wishee and liberating for the wisher. Or is it the other way around?? Either way, my classes are just past the halfway mark and I can begin to feel the sun over the horizon. It's nice to say, "Next week, I'll be through." Until then, my dreams will remain un-restful and I'm sure a few more about my teachers and classmates will seep into my mind (seriously). I am trucking through June. I cannot wait for splashparks, pool times, sparklers, and more barbecuing in July.

Scorpion Master

2011-06-06T10:59:00.000-07:00

My "Scorpion Master" black light.

Elliott and I have taken it upon ourselves to become hunters of the night. After spraying our supposedly top notch scorpion killer, we spotted one above the dreaded bathtub (the worst location to trap them) a mere three days later. The next day, I drowsily drove to Lowe's (it was the day after I got my Wisdom Teeth out--I know,no driving allowed) and resentfully purchased a black light. We have made it a nightly bonding routine. I am the brave Raid and little bat holder, and Elliott is the really brave black light and big bat holder. We obliterate a good 1-2 scorpions a night. Yes, it is terrifying but profoundly rewarding in a vengeful sort of way. I'd like to get a picture of the neon glowing devil bugs, but we usually go out around 9:00 at night, and that is far too late for me to prep for a scorpion photo shoot.

##################################################

Today marks like the 5th first day of school since January. I just don't know how often I'll have a chance to post, what with my 4x4 classes (that is, 4 nights of 2 classes for 4 weeks). June will be made into a good month and July will just naturally be a great month.

Meanwhile, I have these albums to keep me company during my painfully long commutes:

New Foods, True Foods

2011-05-29T20:37:00.002-07:00

As if I haven't boobed about it enough through other venues, I got my Wisdom Teeth **unexpectedly** taken out on Wednesday. I went in for a cleaning since Elliott (and his other half, Jonny) were there observing for school, and instead, had x-rays taken and my husband enthusiastically insisting we go for it--hey, it was worth it. Trevor, with Elliott's assistance, was kind enough to do it and it was quite the ugly site at times (well, I only heard the cracking and crunching and drilling) but I can guarantee it looked even worse on their end. And no, I wasn't sedated. From the horror stories I've heard people tell me about their bad reactions and sickness from sedatives, I'm glad I wasn't. Ok, and maybe I didn't want to because I've never been "put under" before and have this slight fear of it. Yes, worse than my fear of shots, sutures, and the sounds of cracking, crunching and drilling teeth coming from inside my mouth.
Four days later, I am still on my pill cocktail of Vicodin, Penicillin, and Ibuprofen, but that's expected. I'm doing much better than I was this morning and I think it'll only improve. The fun and entertaining part of this whole ordeal has been my newfound diet (and increased crazy).

Jamba Juice's new Fruit and Veggie smoothies. After having Betty Crocker Instant Mashed Potatoes and Macaroni and Cheese for a few dinners, I decided to make the "healthy choice" and try Jamba's Apple 'n Greens smoothie (top left...hence "greens"). Yeah, you could taste the carrots, spinach, bell peppers, kale, spirulina and lettuce. It was a fun try but... I'll stick to our signature "Orange-A-Peel" in the future.

I've also had plenty of these:

Lastly, I just tried these little "Gems" from Target.

Fat Free, Gluten Free, and LOTS of Vitamin C.

To die for, but a little pricey.

Sadly this brings me to one of my many embarrassing stories that I am typically able to censor from public scrutiny.

I wrote a letter to the Jelly Belly company not too long ago. Care to read it?

Now.

I don't write letters to companies if I've been "wronged." I don't call to make complaints on people. I don't send dishes back if I don't like them. I don't return movie tickets. I don't like being a complainer because even if it puts a damper on my day, I don't need to spread it around, even if I feel "wronged," which, how often are we every really "wronged" enough to make a public fuss? Most of the time the person in charge will never know of your frustration and the poor guy trying to earn his $8.50 an hour doesn't need your guff (or in this case, my guff). I don't need "redemption." It's just too much.

Anyway, I feel very passionate about it (as if that's not dramatic enough) but perhaps, the Vicodin took over.

Recently, I was pushed too far by my Sunkist Gems. I emailed them--*gasp*! Please enjoy this glimpse into my ultra-paranoid and ultra-type A personality::

To Whom It May Concern:

Hi, my name is Alisa Brennan and not one hour ago, (Elliott reading this out loud bursts into laughter) I purchased the "Sunkist Gems" candy from my local Target store. I was skeptical about paying so much ($3.79) for a small bag of candy, but knew that the upstanding quality of Jelly Belly (combined with Sunkist) would give me my money's worth. I opened the bag to find an abysmal (YES IT REALLY WAS ABYSMAL)variety of flavors that left me very disappointed and feeling as though I wasted $4. I took a picture of all 22 candies for proof, (I really did, and organized them into a grid so that the quantity could easily be counted) but since there is no area to upload one, (there wasn't--they were rather cheeky in only allowing a submission form for FAQs on their website where you could only provide your email) will simply say that 7 candies were lemon and a staggering 11 candies were lime. 2 candies were orange and 2 were grapefruit. There were ZERO raspberry flavored--as advertised on the bag (I'm just prepping for my statistics class next week). If this were a bag of Skittles, I'd shrug my shoulders and accept the 77 cent loss. If I'm already paying $4 for a small bag of candy and get the least popular flavors (honestly, Lemon and Lime?) I would be much appreciative of a refund or a new bag. You have my email address and my Home address is:

(Insert My Home Address)

Phone: (Insert My Phone)

Now, I still love Jelly Belly and Sunkist products! I am just a bit disappointed that I paid so much for a product and got so little out of it. Thank you so much! Have a great day (do you like how I still want to be liked by the Jelly Belly Company so I say that I still love them?).

I think the Vicodin is talking a little too much on this blog.

Chillin' Out, Maxin', Relaxin' All Cool.

2011-05-26T08:33:00.003-07:00

How Not to Enter A Pool

I just love Elliott's red hair. No really, I put this picture up just for his hair. And the baby too...

Crabby.

My two sisters gave Beckett his very first pool for his birthday. It has been a complete riot. We love it. I also love that Beckett's one-year birthday falls at the beginning of summer so when I buy him a normal 12-18 month bathing suit, he looks slightly hood climbing into that pool of his.

Now I Don't Need No Wah-Wah's.

2011-05-24T13:42:00.000-07:00

It Starts With

2011-05-20T14:57:00.001-07:00

Him elbowing her in the ear (on accident...or was it? No, it was, that's not nice.)

He's not having it, she's not having it.

He shows her how it is apparently annoying to display affection by placing your arm across your loved one's waist.

Once more to get the message across.

And now you get something that resembles an anniversary photo.

Take one every year people.

Thanks Brianne, our official anniversary photographer.

Elliott and I went to the Melting Pot where I attempted to taste everything despite not being able to taste anything due to a severely congested nose. I kept eating their salsa by the spoonful to clear everything up. I even blew my nose into their nice cloth napkins (I know that's what they're there for, but really... Gross.) It really is a strange feeling to just eat everything in site, not being able to tell if it's rich, spicy, or gross, and suddenly have this sick feeling in your stomach. It's how we Brennan's do it, and what I could taste, was fantastic. It is definitely a fun place to eat. Here's to many more future anniversary dinners, photos that turn into photo shoots, and scandalous black curtains that isolate your booth from the rest of the restaurant.

As Long As You Are Here With Me-

2011-05-17T08:21:00.001-07:00

-This Will Feel Like Home.

Elliott and I on our Honeymoon in Beaver Creek, Colorado. We are standing on top of Glenwood Canyon at what we would perhaps consider our "Happy Place"--Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.

Oh to return soon. Today is our third wedding anniversary. I love this forever marriage of mine and this forever man of mine. Our lives have become much more comfortable, secure, and private. They have become natural and ours. I admire the ground we have covered over these seemingly short, but lasting years, and am only more prepared and excited for whatever will come and cause us to progress.

"When You Need Direction, I'll Be The Guide. For All Time."

Dig it.

2011-05-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Beckett had his first Krispy Kreme donut. He was there last year, but was a wee bit young to have a donut. I'm certain this was the perfect way to come off from having the stomach flu... Right? Right. Here's to hoping he won't have a stomach ache.

He may be scrunchin' that face, but he really was feeling much better by then.

(Waiting in line last year for their 365 Cards (good for one free donut ~~and coffee~~ a day for a year). Ten-day-old Beckett is snoozing under the blankie.This year they made us donate $20 to charity and we got a 365 card plus 3 dozen donuts. Yeah, I wasn't in favor of this trip. I've officially had enough of KK. Sorry charity.)

::PS::

That picture reminded me that Elliott has had braces for nearly a year (his brother has them too now, go figure). He is supposed to get them off in December. We (mainly I) will have a celebratory party. I think I will have earned it. Speaking of parties; Elliott and I had a very special party last Sunday. We have parties all the time, actually, but they usually just consist of us two at home. This party was in celebration of us finally reaching the end of "The Sopranos" as it was airing on A&E. We shed quite a few tears, had several near-heart attacks, and stopped breathing numerous times over the course of the last several months, but we made it. Incredible show.

Left to right: Bruschetta with tomatoes and mozzarell', Chocolate Ganache Cake, sparkling grape juice (vino), pepperoni pizza, Italian sausages, Penne Arrabbiata, antipasto, and garlic French bread. We died and I didn't eat for a few days since I couldn't STOP being full.

Mother's D---YACK.

2011-05-09T09:58:00.000-07:00

Mother's Day Ranuculus.

On Mother's Day, a nice lady in Church walked over to sit by me in Sunday School, pulled the hem of my skirt down, and told me "it" was showing. (I'm not being sarcastic here, she was very nice to tell me).

Then, Beckett screamed and screamed in everyone's ears while I shoved his face with the ever-healthy cereal, Froot Loops with marshmallows.

I finally took Beckett outside where he, while I was talking to another nice lady, threw up his Froot Loops (with marshmallows) on the floor.

I supposed I may have deserved it, but I thought that having my underwear showing in public had already made it even.
I told Elliott that Church had been h-e-youknowwhat. And it kinda was. It was worth it though, to stick it out the whole three hours, even if it was for the sake of being able to take the same car to Church and leave at the same time (a rarity). I like driving with him. No distractions (we try to not talk on the phone when the other is in the car) and it can be fun to go somewhere, especially if it's home.

Today Beckett has the stomach flu.

I went to Wal Mart at 5am this morning to get some Pedialyte. Since I didn't have to wait in line for the Red Box, I also rented "Burlesque." Obviously, I will be Elliott-less tonight (as opposed to Eliot Ness tonight) but maybe I just like a little Stanley Tucci to make me laugh.

There are so many explanations for the above statements that would make you nod your head and go "I see now why," but I'm working on not over-apologizing or making too many excuses for myself. Maybe this was an excuse in itself. Oh well. "Baby Steps," says Dr. Leo Marvin.

You Made Me One.

2011-05-08T12:04:00.001-07:00

Thank you, Elliott.

Thank you, Beckett.

Thank you, Mother of mine.

Thank you, Pam.

I am not a mother by my own hand.

I owe it to many.

Especially my Heavenly Father.

Cinco de Mayo

2011-05-05T15:23:00.002-07:00

I love Cinco de Mayo; but really, I just love any excuse to have fun with the day and EAT. The lovely lovely lovely people at ASU Library Storage threw Beckett a birthday party today and combined it with Cinco de Mayo (and I do have to say it was Kacey's half birthday so let's throw that in the mix too)!

I believe that our friend Joel put it best when he said, "There's a sort of reverence for the Bell." Maybe Beckett was overjoyed to finally be reunited with the food he had all. during. his. time. in. the. womb.

One super talented guy made this koala piñata from scratch. Beckett wasn't having any part of it--refused a bat AND golf club!

Gotta love storage wrapping. Seriously, you gotta.

Clearly irritated at the little bubble bug for constantly zooming away from him.

Nothing Bundt Cakes "Bundtinis"

One Bundtini too many.

The other students working there said we weren't allowed to bring up Koalas anymore after today. I'm not quite sure how the Koala kwaze got started. No I'm lying, it's because of the fighting Koala video we all watched at storage and just couldn't let go of.

I'm more of a cat person, really!

¡Olé!

I absolutely cannot say how much fun I have we with these people. They are great and we ALL love "Baby Days." Thank you as always! Until our next party!

Beckett Turns 1.

2011-05-02T22:40:00.000-07:00

I have loved doing these monthly age posts, and they all have seemed to gradually build towards this day. This year has "lasted forever and ended so soon" as 2002's Mandy Moore would put it... Ok, so maybe baby Charlie and I watched "A Walk to Remember" together on Saturday. I had to take advantage of having a girl over to visit somehow!

Today, Brianne and Lily met us at Sprinkle's (where they are starting to recognize us AND where we clearly had to take some pictures)! I got Beckett a dark chocolate and a few others... three... for Elliott and I. One was free though, so really, it [should] even out. Did you know if you "Like" Sprinkles on Facebook they tell you secret words almost every day to get free cupcakes?

I couldn't help but tell EVERYONE who noticed Beckett that it was his birthday. He received lots of smiles, tickles, and even a free dessert. We made sure to have cake and presents early because of my class, and were still able to have a riot. Beckett, I'm glad you're the type of baby that has as much fun on his first birthday as the parents do.

Beckett it is hard to believe you are mine. It is hard to believe that one year ago I was doped and delirious in a hospital bed and didn't quite yet know you. It is hard to believe that yes, we really did get this lucky. It is hard to believe that the clothes, supplies, trinkets and items of sentiment we bought months and months in advance have actually come to be used by you, that they didn't indefinitely remain in their boxes set up in your closet. You are real, and you are here each day with more effervescence for life than anyone. You are inspiring and I am so purely and deeply in love with you.

Happy. Birthday.

Dearest May:

2011-05-01T09:25:00.004-07:00

You are here. Stay.

Tomorrow Beckett turns ONE.
Tomorrow Bella turns TEN.
Tomorrow Claire turns FIVE.

I do hope the girls feel better by tomorrow; once again sickness has plagued the Lines' home.

On Wednesday Jonny turns THIRTY.
On Friday Apryl turns TWENTY SEVEN.
Next Tuesday Ryan turns TWENTY SEVEN.
(and last Wednesday Anna turned TWENTY FIVE).

I love birthday marathon May (slash April).
I just love May.
I love the green.
I love the breezes.
I love Memorial Day pool-sides and movies.
I love barbeques.
I love that I always have school off (which makes it fitting for June when I'll have 4-nights-a-week classes for four weeks). Boo June.
And I love my wedding anniversary... Lest we forget.
If I ever have any girls, I may have to incorporate May into one of their names.

For Beckett's birthday I will, naturally, whisk him off to Sprinkles to pick out his very own first cupcake... while I pick out a few more for me. I purchased a "1" birthday sparkler from Smeeks to light for him. We will then go to CPK for a birthday lunch with Elliott. I have class tomorrow night and will have to cut the festivities short. Not to worry, we are having a Storage Birthday Party (and half birthday party for Kacey) on Thursday (piñata included) and on Saturday, will be having a combined family birthday party at Costa Vida to celebrate Apryl's birthday as well!

OHIAMJUSTSOEXCITED!

Enjoy your Sunday/Sabbath/Day of Rest.

Oh, and I love Mother's Day.

Easters

2011-04-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

I have always loved Easter. The pastels, the candy, the rolls with ham, the Church meetings, the beautiful weather. I think what I love most is how perfect of a day it always is to rejoice in the Savior's resurrection and can only imagine how beautiful that actual day was. Since it is my first Easter with a child, I kept reminding myself to remember the day's true meaning and to not get **too** carried away in the Easter baskets and candy with Beckett. It is never too early to teach children about the Savior, even at their youngest age. That way, they will never know an Easter without His presence.

We've been teaching Beckett how to clap. He does it masterfully during the most inappropriate moments (not counting this picture).

Easter firsts for Beckett and Charlie.

It's a devastating thing for a child to have their eggs stolen.

Easter cousins.

We decided that "Nacho Libre" would be our Easter movie and watched it last night. It's one of my favorite comedies. I've always thought of it as an Easter movie, actually, and I'm sure it's all because of the line:

"Do you not realize I have had diarrhea since Easters?"

Until next year.

All Together Now

2011-04-16T17:54:00.002-07:00

I haven't gotten my hair cut (slash thinned) since July. Watch out whoever cuts it next weekend.

PS, my poor diabetic trooper of a mother dined on ice water while we devoured ice cream. Shameful, I know.

Does anybody else besides us tear up every Sunday night while watching this? It is fascinating and inspiring to see how many small and large helping agencies are doing their own, simple, but meaningful contribution to the many low-socioeconomic neighborhoods in our country. Television and publicity politics aside, it's a very cool show and brings awareness to just how many non-profit organizations can benefit from volunteer work and donations, or even a simple, "Thank you."

Tiny TOMS.

I so can't wait to put these on Beckett. Yep, he's a full on walker and those Robeez, as darling as they still are, just won't cut it on asphalt during an Arizona summer. Heh, funny that I'm talking about TOMS, which is not unlike the purpose of Secret Millionaire. I'll be honest, I probably would have still bought them even if they didn't donate a pair to a child in need, but that's an added positive.

All You Need Is a Light Jacket

2011-04-13T12:42:00.000-07:00

As all of us Arizonians know, the weather surprisingly dropped a good 30-40 degrees over the weekend. It was perfect. How I have come to love the cold and despise the heat as an Arizona native. I used to be completely tolerant or "immune" as I like to call it. In fact, I used to love it. Over the past several years, however, many of my vacations have been to winter towns, and returning to the heat and desolation that is this desert is slightly... depressing (strictly speaking geographically). Perfect days like Sunday don't come often.

It reminded me of Miss Congeniality:

"Please describe your idea of a perfect date."

"That's a tough one. I'd have to say April 25th. Because it's not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket."

I agree with Miss Rhode Island.

Even as summer (and with it, the majestic month of May) approaches, I think park days will remain as a regular tradition. Only, they'll have to be intermixed with pool days so we don't dry up too much.

Happy Birthday Dad.

2011-04-08T20:40:00.002-07:00

Today my dad is 52.

HE:

Used to have 11 cats at once growing up.

Met my mother in Colorado (while attending vet school at CSU in Ft. Collins--a new temple site)!

Lives 2 blocks from the Phoenix Temple site (speaking of).

Used to hold state track records for the mile and two-mile races (even though it was 1977... still cool).

Once owned a rad Ford Thunderbird and would wash it with distilled water. It really was a pretty car, I must say.

Was the most penalized (but the best!) hockey goalie in his league during high school. Decades later, my jaw drops at seeing this guy ice skate.

Is a fully certified SCUBA diver who has achieved "Century Diver" status--meaning he has logged 100 dives.

Is an interesting guy, to say the least, and is very fun, funny, and loved.

Last year at the temple. I was 8 months pregnant and accidentally rammed my hand into a cactus and had to ward off obscenities and tears to smile for the camera.

Tomorrow we will all go to Mary Coyle's in Phoenix to celebrate (I have convinced Elliott to take me to "Last Chance" and "Smeeks" beforehand). My dad grew up in Central Phoenix (going to Central High School) and we have benefited from his knowledge of little restaurants brooming with the nostalgia of classic Phoenix. Sadly, Mary Coyle's will be closing in May, sharing the fate of so many established and seemingly timeless restaurants including Tucchetti's (home of the best pizza I will ever taste in my life--goat cheese) and Ed Debevic's. As dry and as urbanized Phoenix can seem to the unfamiliarized eye, it definitely claims some of the most unique and beloved shops and eateries around.

This all being said, happy birthday, Dad. Thanks for introducing us to so many special things in life; subtle and obvious.

Sunday Nite Laughs (Because All of Our Show's Episodes Got Deleted)

2011-04-03T22:20:00.004-07:00

Now this is my kind of stereotyping.

from.

One time when I was 16, my picture was in the Arizona Republic for being such a Beatles fan. I had bangs that I cut myself so that was cool. I need to get my act together and laminate that. You know, to preserve my 15 milliseconds of fame for the posterity. I also have my devotion immortalized in Sandra Day O'Connor High School's 2007 yearbook pages. Yeah, it took two pages to get the message across. I remember visiting with a friend after I graduated who told me that he and his girlfriend called me the boob girl because whenever she (who I had never even spoke two words to) wore her Beatles shirt, I would...apparently...stare at it and ultimately her boobs. Oops! I keep thinking I need to update my collection of shirts. I have 15 stuffed in a drawer, all too small now, naturally. The Beatles were my hobby growing up. I collected them, listened to them, loved them, learned about them, dreamed about them, and let everybody (well, at Church and SDOHS) know darn well who they were and that I would always be the number one fan. They were my passion and inspired me to do so many things. I have met a lot of people who do not receive their inspiration from music (but rather through other means, which is perfectly acceptable). They hum along until they turn the car or iPod off. I believe that I have turned down the music in my life a little too much because of the many, many things I have become caught up in, especially at a younger age. Fortunately, one benefit of having a painfully sharp memory is that I can remember it all. My feelings, my hideous clothes that attempted to look 1960s, my guitar and piano that seemed to only be able to churn out Beatles' tunes, my "shrine" that was a solid wall of nothing but memorabilia and magazine clippings. While it's important to grow up, to balance your life with what is relevant and important, it is just as important to remember what has contributed to your happiness, and what was so fun to parade around singing about. It is never too late to reinvent a passion. Oh, and in the middle of typing this, I found my paper. It is severely creased. Ignore my bangs and the fact that I actually said "drag."

And. Elliott and I have found ourselves singing this song quite often around the house.

Veggies that sing and are ridiculously cute. I like.

Beckett Turns 11 Months. We Think.

2011-04-02T18:33:00.002-07:00

When I think of April, my chest constricts a little. A bit of PTSD if you will. Ok, let's not get too dramatic here. But really, I have a hard time thinking of last April. It's like when you have your alarm clock set to a certain buzzer and you hear that buzzer on someone else's phone or on the tv. It's all too familiar and elicits those same feelings of reluctance, anxiety, and brief shock at the sudden blare of that harsh sound though, it has no purpose anymore for the time being. It reminds me of Classical Conditioning.

Back to April. I was "worried" (for no reason) about being able to graduate. I had papers, discussion boards, tests, commutes, work. I had a baby coming; Due April 27th. Well, we did find out the week before that he was *technically* due the 29th. Whatever. He was coming and I was shy to meet him. Not worried about caring for him, not worried about losing sleep, not worried about loving him to death and back, not worried about breastfeeding (too many people ARE worried about breast feeding), not worried about how he would change my life. I was shy, bashful, and embarrassed. This baby didn't even know me and was about to be subjected to all of my motherly behaviors, one by one as I awkwardly wove them into my personality. Of course, little did I know, or realize. We've never been apart. Not really. Not ever. Thanks for being my guinea pig Beckett. It was inevitable, but here you are, once again, paving the way so that I might learn to be a little less crazier with each child.
Love. Loves. Loved.

Did anyone see President Cook (or is it Elder?) or hear his name on conference today? He was called to be in the First Quorum of the Seventy! We are all very excited for him and his family.

Playtime Pet Time

2011-04-01T16:13:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we went to my parents' house in Glendale where Beckett had a free-for-all with the cat, dog, and piano. He likes to be well-rounded. My Dad the veterinarian loves introducing his pets to Beckett though, by the hysterical looks on both Little Gray Cat and Harry's face, they didn't love it. At all. Such is the life of a pet with a baby (as opposed to a baby with a pet).

I am excited for the weekend. Well. It depends on how productive I am tonight with finishing my paper.

But I'm still excited.

I have a strange obsession with elapsed time (it contributes to my overly vivid and sharp memory). I measure the months in General Conferences. I find myself giving quite a bit of thought in regards to where I was 6 months ago (last conference, in October). I had made the last minute (almost literally) decision to apply to NAU's Master's Program in School Counseling. I was prepping for the GRE. I submitted my admissions application in between sessions of Saturday conference. Here I am half a year later, well into my cohort and classes, bumbling about a paper. Tomorrow, Beckett is a month shy of turning 1 (let the festivities planning commence). Six months ago he had no hair. Six months ago, I was fantasizing of the wonderful land of magic called Disneyland with the hopes of taking my husband their to convert him to the happy dream. Unbeknownst to me then, we would have the opportunity to go twice (and he has become a humbled admirer of the park). Last conference my bathroom was a dull white. Now it is a tranquil silver sage. Ok, maybe that doesn't matter but it contributes to the strange obsession! I am in awe of time and it's ability to apathetically pass by no matter what happens in life. Frightening, but assuring.

PS, Krista: can't wait to sign Beckett up for your fabulous piano lessons--even though it *may* be a few years down the road.

Bathtime and Babies

2011-03-31T14:08:00.002-07:00

Beckett and Lily share their first, and very splashy, bath.

I don't think Beckett will have the same trepidation towards the pool this year.

Baby Charlie's blessing last Sunday.

Don't worry, the Brennan Brothers aren't sourpusses, they just have BRACESSSTHSS.

Big baby.

Kneeling on the ground taking pictures of Beckett getting into the pantry. I pretty much can't, not, photograph him doing something. Trying to figure out "shadow issues,"I snap a picture of myself against the same background and don't realize until AFTER going through the pictures, that I put my chin in the formula powder. The ominous can to the left really should have clued me in.

Elliott and I have been watching the Harry Potter's. We are in the middle of the fourth movie. I can't remember what happens after that one, so it's been nice to have an exciting show to look forward to! We've also been sleeping a lot. We've been getting a solid 7-8 hours a night but can't seem to shake the slight sleepy feeling. We are pretty busy, I suppose, but I like to think of it as devotion to the slumber. A little too addicting I think.

A Taste of Honey

2011-03-22T15:08:00.001-07:00

I've been thinking about.

My impending workload for the upcoming weeks of school.

My completed Spring Break List (note the Beatle's magnet below)!

This pair of new UGG's I am bidding on over at ebay. I had hoped to wait for the Nordie's Anniversary sale, but I soon realized they are a one-season make. Boo. Anyway, I borrowed my mother-in-law's pair for an afternoon in Utah and fell in love. Clearly, she is one, fashionable mother-in-law too.

I am so excited for the currently ongoing "21 Days of Beauty" at Ulta. On Friday, they are selling Too Faced Lash Injection at $5 off. That's when I'll make my move.

This Song.

Ignore Drake. And the partying.

The thoughts of going "back2school" easily become nullified when repeated every 8 weeks. Different classes bring new faces and the uniqueness and fun of those personalities. Classes within my "cohort" bring familiar faces that make me grateful to get to see them for more than just a brief stint.

Before Spring Break started, Elliott and I made a list of everything we wanted to do and I'd say that we made a pretty good pair to get it all done. The list is finished along with the break and, subsequently, the school must start, exercise reconvene, dreams of Disneyland be tucked away for another time, and Elliott&Alisa slumber parties must be bumped to weekends only (we just can't be up at midnight all the time watching mockumentaries of Ke$ha on our phones). I always feel somewhat of a sense of loss when breaks and vacations end, but am usually eager for "real life" to start so I can power through (making an effort to still enjoy each moment) and eventually make it to the next break, knowing I will appreciate it much more if I complete my tasks. I enjoy and thrive on a busy life, though it's probably nowhere near as busy or hectic as most other's. I thrive even more on planning out the future and am very much so motivated when I have a visualized objective (short or long term) I'm working toward. It's not always a great "hobby" as I usually fall in suit with the phrase, "Don't put the cart before the horse." Regardless, I am an individual predisposed to impatience, and programmed with a personality to move, work, and progress.

Hence the reminder on my school notebook:

A Well Trained Boy.

2011-03-18T21:01:00.000-07:00

No babies were coaxed in any way, shape, or form during filming.

He just knows and LOVES his baths that much.

From Our Irish Heritage to Yours (and Even if You're Not)...

2011-03-17T13:00:00.002-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's.

I think we're celebrating by going to Pei Wei. According to some: Sprinkle's is just "too far." Plus I already went my "one time" this month. What are these impositions on Sprinkle's? Really, there shouldn't be any.

Just a Fine and Fancy Ramble to the Zoo

2011-03-16T19:22:00.004-07:00

Elliott and I had never been to the zoo together, much less taken Beckett (though, if we're honest, the kid really didn't care). As part of our Spring Break extravaganza, we went. Simple as that. The zoo is a pretty fun place to get a good leisurely walking workout on. Though sadly, but expectedly, many of the animals were either curled up or hidden away sleeping. As we left the zoo suffering heat stroke and dehydration, we were grateful for our brief moments of cool weather that morning and especially grateful for our ease in finding a parking space. Seriously, it was an animalistic sight in itself seeing cars circle around with nowhere to park, waiting to lunge any minute on an open spot. That peace being said, it was great and we saw most everything we wanted.

I so desperately wanted Beckett to be able to touch a sting ray that I may have accidentally, though unknowingly, dunked his WHOLE face into the pool for a quick second as I reached his hand forward. At least he touched it (don't worry, it wasn't with his face)! Plus, he was clearly DONE with the heat from the previous picture that I actually did him a favor.

Now, the initial drive to make it to the zoo started a good 9 months ago when the Koala exhibit came to town. Lucky for us, we made it just in time before they left to... another zoo? The Australian Outback? Meh, probably another zoo for future gawkers like myself.

We REALLY WANTED TO SEE THIS:

BUT INSTEAD SAW THIS:

We bonded, him/her and I. He/She looked at me; followed my every move despite the surrounding crowd. Maybe he/she knew I had been thinking about him/her for the past nine months. Maybe he/she knew we made a 3D model of his/her relative.
Maybe he/she just knew I had that special love for the koala.

But only when they fight.

Disney. Again.

2011-03-15T08:40:00.001-07:00

Brianne and Trevor invited us to Disneyland with them and the whole SmileLines staff this past week because that's the kind of dentist he is: awesome in every way.

We left Beckett (again)and had a marvelous time (again).

Our nieces and nephews were easily the most fun part of the trip--especially since they were old enough to actually ride things and walk. We stayed at Disney's Grand Californian just so that we could still enjoy the magic while we slept--though seriously, I was up at 4:30am jittery and excited because I WANTED MY DISNEY RIDES AND FOOD NOMNOM.

We got to spend so much time with Brennan and felt pretty cool he wanted to hang out with us. That boy is a riot and the sweetest around.

Max and Claire--stinkin' cute. PS, that Toy Story ride is incredibly fun and tension building. I JUST WANTED TO BEAT ELLIOTT!

Elliott and I clearly need some help with our background face awareness:

My face is just screaming a whole lotta MEH. Meanwhile, Brianne, you should be in some sort of dental ad. Convenient!

And boom goes the dynamite--speaking of, we learned that Claire knows all the words (and dance moves) to the "Dynamite" song (Taio Cruz). We also learned that Bella knows how to accessorize better than I can ever hope to.

Elliott calls out to his brother from the bridge on Small World. Kinda like Romeo and Juliet.

Party in the front.

Party in the back.

Party in the front.

Party in the back.

Thank you Trevor and Brianne, it was Unnnforgettable.

Photo Drive

2011-03-13T10:17:00.001-07:00

Beckett is learning about taking it slow with solids.

Yesterday morning--as in, 2:00 in the morning--we returned from our trip to Disneyland *sans* Beckett. It was the right decision. We had such a hysterical and fun time with everyone--more pictures to come soon.

Speaking of, yesterday I ventured onto Picasa to load a few pictures only to find that several folders--containing a combined 600-700 pictures were missing. I thought that Picasa possibly deleted them because I was running low on space (though I didn't think that was possible). I may have thrown a tantrum and cried a little. Elliott had actually neglected to tell me that he moved the pictures to a completely different un-Picasa-related folder, so my mini-heart attack subsided, but I stand by my tears and fit about the photos. Really, I have thousands of pictures, none of which are professional looking, but, they are mine and they are priceless. I have the same feelings of loss when I go on a vacation that isn't "Digital SLR camera appropriate" (i.e. Disneyland!) So many awesome opportunities when I find my hands immediately going L7 to create a pseudo Kodak moment. I decided from this last trip that I need to be on the look out for a great point-and-shoot to tuck away in my purse for times when the bulky camera just isn't practical.

Back to the actual point, we left California a night before everyone else so that I could attend the last day of my first graduate class (bright and early at 9:00am--caffeine please). My classmates are amazing, and it's unbelievably helpful and fun to be in a program with people who share similar personalities and goals. I'll be even busier with school as I will be taking two classes at a time for the next three months. In the meantime, I will still remind myself to sit back and smell the flowers (convenient, since Elliott bought me some yesterday) and enjoy my cookies a very good friend from school got for me to bring to our class potluck, knowing I would be home too late to make anything! They're Trader Joe's no less--how did she know, I wonder?! And yes, our teacher is a firm believer that potlucks should be held at the end of every course.

By the way, the cookies are best when eaten like Cookie Crisp.

Beckett Turns 10 Months, We Have an Experience

2011-03-02T14:20:00.000-07:00

And what the experience it was.

Beckett, we are still debating whether or not to take you to Disneyland next week. You can't walk yet, but you sure are perfecting that stand. You have like 15 teeth coming in all at once so you have been a bit under the weather, but so sweet and so happy still. You are large and slightly awkward, but perfect as is. Sadly, I didn't even realize that the cupcake I got had PEANUT BUTTER in it (a major no-no for babies)... So you can't have it.

Not that I really bought it for you since it would have taken you 6 hours to slowly mash it down, but still, it would have been nice of me to share.

Oopsie.

TheHappyBirthdayGirl.

2011-02-27T13:45:00.005-07:00

Dear Brianne,

I am terribly bummed and sorry I can't come visit you on your birthday. This whole sick thing has been SO irritating!(You probably can relate to that more than anyone with those poor sick kiddos of yours)!

At least we'll always have the swapmeet. By the way, you were so thoughtful to crawl under the nasty swapmeet table yesterday and grab Beckett's exploded snack container for me while I wiped the blanket of cinnamon sugar off him. Of course, had I just made a decision to buy/barter for that claw grabber, the whole table situation could have been avoided.

My only wish is that you get to enjoy some good downtime, some good Diet DP, and maybe a fresh Sprinkle's cupcake (for me). I have a feeling that YOUR only wish will be for the QT by your house to open up ASAP.

Hope your birthday is everything you wish for!

With lots of love, admiration, and endearment,

Alisa&Elliott&Beckett

Lemon-Honey Tea

2011-02-26T14:11:00.001-07:00

It's that time again. And again. And again.

Everyone is sick in Arizona because we don't know what to do with ourselves when temperatures go below the 70s. When I was pregnant, I couldn't take a lot (as in any) medicine to combat sore throats, congestion, and aches. I found a zippy little recipe online for lemon-honey tea that I just absolutely fell in love with and have quite often.

Mugful of Water (approximately 1 c.)

Microwave for two minutes (or boil for you holistic folk) then add:

.5-1 T. Sugar

1 T. Lemon Juice

2 T. Honey

StirStirStir and...

WOW!

Lemon Honey Tea.

Fresh, Flavorful, Therapeutic.

Original recipe found HERE.

Today Elliott, Beckett, Brianne, Brennan, and I ventured into the magical land of Apache Junction to go to a swap meet. Elliott was able to get a few handy tools there for dental waxing as per a recommendation of a lab tech at his school. In addition to accomplishing our mission, there were some impulse buys that consisted of Girl Scout Cookies (One box of Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs if you must know). As well as a few *interesting* ball caps, a 3D wooden Koala Puzzle (for my ASU Storage friends--we're Koazy for Koalas), a prickly pear cactus, a deck of cards, and a belt.

It was incredibly gross and crowded, but all the while still fun.

Hey, and at least now I know where to go for immediate girl scout cookies and half-price cacti!

Steadier Footing

2011-02-24T14:35:00.002-07:00

I came across this on another exquisite and inspiring blog I read and just had to steal it! I am one who responds quite well to little reminders, post-it notes strewn everywhere, motivational posters, the classic usuals. I think this would do well to have above my computer here in case I ever have a spaz attack about school.

So I would look at it everyday then. You who know me can say it.

TO MY FACE. RAWRRAWRRAWR!

Let's just read it, shall we?:

Elliott might be slightly hateful that I would even dare to forsake anything about our wedding day (though, he DID say that going to the Google IO Conference would MAKE. HIS. MAY! (as opposed to any other holiday--anniversary, first born's birthday, you know... meaningless events)shortly after which, I berated him with verbal hate of my own, possible thrown objects etc. etc.) but really. I came across... deliberately searched out... (whatever!) this stunning idea that I know I would have absolutely fallen for then.

Now, I am very much so a traditionalist, particularly when it comes to formal affairs. Though, what am I saying? I've been to maybe three formal affairs ever. I say this especially in reference to weddings. You have your classy invitations, classy dress, classy shoes (none of this new-age sneakers business), and classy cake. Well, if I could go back and do it all over again, I might substitute my cake--

(SEE MY CAKE? SO PRETTY AND SO MAY!)

For this type of "cake":

I really never liked the idea of wedding cupcakes instead of wedding cakes, but Sprinkle's makes it look so... chic?, That I would do it (with them) in a heartbeat.

PS: Please ignore Elliott's wedding ring on his right hand. He hurt the left ring finger (causing it to swell) in a rousing game of "dunkball" that week.

New Slang

2011-02-23T14:32:00.001-07:00

I will forever be spoiled by Baby Gap. There's no other place that makes clothes this cute without being *too* overpriced (or offering enough sales to combat the over-pricedness).

Speaking of overpriced, I've finally made a long-overdue decision to quit using Mac mascara and give Too Faced Lash Injection a try. A few bucks more than Mac, but SO much better, AND you get 50% more mascara.

I bought this on special last Fall and can't wait to finally bust out my Pinking of You this Spring!

I love these bars, the ones they sell at Costco run close to 200 calories so I stopped buying them. I recently read THIS article, which further cements my absolute devotion to fiber. Creepy for being as young as I am? Honestly though, do your body a favor. Especially you mama's and future mama's.

I don't get this ice cream thing I've been on, but I've found that the more "fancy" the ice cream, the less sick I'm going to feel. Figures. Anyway, perusing around Target (always a mistake), I spotted this fun find. This is perfect for us Arizona folk who want the taste, without the added "heat." And seeee? Coffee Free! It is pretty rich still so it might not be for everyone. I also tried the mini Häagen-Daz, "Dulce de Leche" and I was in heaven! Anyone have other recommendations for Häagen-Daz flavors? Oh... sorry Starbucks Ice Cream, forgot this was about you.

Elliott and I are in L.O.V.E. with Sandwich Thins! It has completely replaced normal sliced bread for us and is probably the greatest thing since. 100 calories each and so soft and doughy! Plus, you can get them in bulk at Costco for WAY less than Super Target... since I have no clue what legitimate grocery stores cost now.

P57 is amazing for those thighs and junk in and around the trunk, but I realllllly don't like the Kelly Ripa, super ripped look so I'm sprinkling in my go-to gal for workouts, Tracy Anderson, for arms and abs.

Seriously though, give both an honest try-- the entire workouts are still amazing!

I will always owe Brianne for letting me bum these videos off of her! Life changing!

For Kacey, who requested that I mention this movie the next time I'm feeling bored and make one of these lists because it was, "Her favorite movie of 2010." Uh. Um... Here ya go?! ;)

Ok, and I might as well mention my favorite movie of 2010:

It's my freakin' favorite movie every year. What did you expect, "Salt?"

Ok, if we're going to get serious then I'll say, "Shutter Island." Underrated, intensely good, and who doesn't love that Leo?

A Special Kind of Cupcake

2011-02-18T10:08:00.002-07:00

These cupcakes are the product of "Whipple Scrumptious Cakes." My fun friend Julie (whose maiden name is so awesomely "Whipple") knew of my cupcake fanaticism and decided to "whip" these up for me! Honestly, amazing. The fact that someone can create something so impressive looking AND tasting on their own is what culinary artists (and good cupcakes) are made of. The flavors were chocolate peanut butter with a peanut butter filling and vanilla with a cheesecake mousse filling. Now. I don't know much about cupcake fillings--that's a "Crumbs" staple and we all know I haven't tried them yet--but it didn't take me long at all to GET to know about cupcake fillings. Julie, your cupcakes were divine and I can't wait to experience more of your confectionery designs.

Thank you, thank you.

Everyone, please go on her blog, peruse a little, drool a little, and order some sweets!

Now, speaking of culinary artistry: get a load of Elliott's and mine's pre-Valentine's Sunday dinner:

Ok, nowhere near the caliber of the cupcakes, but pb&j's on heart-shaped Sandwich Thins we're pretty cute I thought!

My Funny Valentine.

2011-02-14T15:15:00.000-07:00

Beckett, your laughter is so perfect.

I know you know how loved you are.

Plus, I had to just take all of my Valentine's excitement out on you since your Dad is at school!

I love giving out Valentine's. I bought one for Beckett, one for Elliott, one for Elliott "from Beckett" and then one that had Chewbacca on the cover and went "Brrruuuuuuuuuurrr" when you opened it... Just because. I did end up returning that one though. This is Beckett's below: Can't get enough of the old fashioned business. "The Runaway Bunny" accompanied the card. I never read it before today and it nearly made me cry. I love the illustrations.

"If you become a bird and fly away from me," said his mother, "I will be a tree that you can come home to."

I told Elliott that tonight I wanted Wetzel's Pretzels because that place could practically be gourmet--they serve appetizers, main courses and desserts--they just happen to all be pretzels.

And I'm ok with that.

Elliott told me to "go for it," and I just might.

This is love, people. This. Is. Love. Your slightly overly particular food lover of a husband consenting to pretzels on V-Day.

Tomorrow is actually the "more special" day for Elliott and I (we celebrate our third anniversary of the day we got engaged) and I think we will celebrate sometime this week by going to Carrabba's. It's pretty much our "hangout" place. Not really... But we go there a lot and it's a HECK of a lot closer than Scottsdale so it's easily up on the list of food loves.

Like I said, I love turning any holiday into a week-long event. I live for it. They're just too fun not to.

February Sights and Smells

2011-02-07T13:31:00.003-07:00

I just love February. My second favorite month of the year, if you must know, and DON'T even ask me what my first is. Ok it's May, but you should know that. Ok, maybe you shouldn't, that's a little bratty of me to say. Really, I want a February baby. The air is crisp and cool, the month never feels dragging (you know, the whole 28 day thing) and Valentine's Day is just too fun. I am nearly halfway through my first class of my Master's program! Things are going pretty routinely and straightforwardly. As expected, not too bad AT ALL. Though, I still like to be my old paranoid self and ask thousands of questions and agonize over my ONE class. I once took 22 credits in a semester and never took below 18 in college. Still, I agonize over one. STILL! Anyway, the realization that I am overthinking it and need to smoke a mental j. sometimes (most times) since the class is fairly easy, has been therapeutic in itself. When I think of the end result I am motivated. Ecstatic. 2011 and 2012 will prove to be some pretty intense years for this family but I keep telling myself, "Really. Has 'it' ever been 'that bad?' Will it?" We all make mountains out of molehills and suddenly our lives are simply too busy, too stressful, and too taxing--to do ANYTHING. I think most of life's problems stem from internal factors rather from what actually happens to us. I'm preaching to the choir, of course.

Back to February. Elliott and I naturally celebrate February 15th more than the 14th as that is the day we got engaged. It would have been on the 14th had Shutterfly mailed Elliott his/MY photo book (with a big picture of him holding a ring on the last page) in time! I don't mind one bit. Prolonging the holiday season has always been a favorite past-time of mine.

Beckett Turns 9 Months; We Play.

2011-02-02T14:42:00.000-07:00

Beckett, you are a riot. Lots of loves, lots of kisses, lots of screaming competitions to see who can get the loudest (starting out verrrry quietly). My house will not be a quiet house. Ever. I probably won't always like it that way but... I started it and probably won't be able to stop it! "Beckkkh,"You love your Lily (who shouts your name so clearly when you come to play) and all the rest of your cousins! You are bigger than most babies your age and older. I like it that way since it means you don't mind when we wrestle and grit. You like your routine. You don't like to be spun around and tossed in the air. It makes you nervous. Swing time didn't look very fun for you either.

I can't wait to have you as my Valentine this year. Unless Lily gets to you first!

Overnight Sensation.

2011-01-30T12:54:00.002-07:00

On Friday night, Elliott and I went to our Super Target (I am forever spoiled and hardly go anywhere else to grocery shop) where I indulged in some "me" treats that I could enjoy in small portions instead of making a whole batch of cookies, expecting Elliott to share in the spoils, and he only has ONE. True story.

I tell you, the guy is not a sweets person.

Itching for a change in desserts, I picked up the adorable little $1 sized portions of the two goodies below and died. Honestly people, I am not an ice cream person. You know this! I am a straight up cupcake/Costco cake and cookie person. Sure, I'll dabble in the occasional Ben & Jerry's (again, I'm spoiled and only buy those since I'll never finish a gallon...anymore..) but ice cream tends to make me sick enough that I'll stop eating it for months at a time.

Well.

Here I am last night, sitting in my workout garb at 7pm while Elliott is at his soccer game. He wanted dinner before leaving and I knew it just wouldn't be fun to partake in such exciting sweets and not be able to share, so I ate my dessert early. As an exercise warm-up, I turned on an episode of Entourage and began to sample my small treasures.

Thirty minutes later, I finish my episode of Entourage and both of my mini ice creams.

Chewy brownies surrounded by caramel and thick, gooey peanut butter--never, and I MEAN NEVER, have I had such good ice cream since B&J's Cinnamon Buns.

Well, let's not forget this classy picture of me at Hillstone earlier this month as I'm inhaling the ice cream I mentioned we had in Newport. YES. It is HERE in Arizona! I swear that has to be Ghirardhelli chocolate sauce.

Divine.

Ten minutes after finishing my ice creams (and starting my second episode of Entourage), the stomach cramps ensue, followed by some more unpleasant biological occurrences. This was the food that sent my nutritional pyramid crashing. The whole weekend was a bust in terms of even remotely healthy eating.

And so it was; the workout didn't happen, but let me tell you what DID happen:

Those ice creams.

PS: Word on the street has it that the Brownie Chew Gooder is ONLY offered at Target--some ridiculous "exclusive" thing. So go there when you get it. Not if.