Becca and Josh

2011-10-19T09:31:00.002-06:00

Coming Soon to a Party Near You:

....as long as he can get over this nasty hand, foot & mouth. Poor lil' guy. (has anyone else's kids had that? It's awful! any advice????)

Oh, and in case you were wondering, I made it 13.1 miles! I did it! Faster than I expected, but I still know I can do better the next time. My knee hurt, but it held out, thanks to some help I had (from above).

Wish Me LUCK!!!!

2011-10-12T08:18:00.001-06:00

My half marathon is on Saturday.

I am so nervous that I have recurring dreams that I'm running in the race, and 4 miles in, I realize I forgot to put my shoes on, and then I also realize I forgot to wear a shirt...

I have also developed a bad case of 'runner's knee'. I blame it on the crazy roller coasters at Knott's Berry Farm. (we had soooo much fun on vacation last week! I may even post about it in a year and a half.) So now, I may or may not cross the finish line crawling. But I'm going to finish. Unless I really do forget to wear a shirt.

Blame it on the....

2011-07-19T13:31:00.000-06:00

Remember my 30 Before 30 list? I am writing to tell you that I've done nothing on that list.

But. I am working on that. My wonderful neighbor and friend, Whitney* (check out her running blog here) has ~~pressured,~~ no, ~~threatened~~, I mean CONVINCED me to run a 1/2 marathon in October. As in 13 miles. As in 12 1/2 miles more than I can run. This can only mean one thing.

I have lost my mind in my old age.

I will tell you a story about the one time I tried to run a 5K and I wore bad shoes and I got a bleeding blister and lost 8 pints of blood, and lost the race to the following individuals: 1. My 80 year old husband with a bum knee (he was waiting on knee surgery at the time) 2. My 52 year old mother in law (but to her credit she is always fit) 3. Our friend Kam, who happened to be pushing his 5-year-old twins in a stroller. I think I finished in something like 42 minutes. Please don't judge.

I hung my head in shame for 5 years.

So, now, in an effort to prove that I really am not old enough to enter the alzheimers rest home down the street from my house, I am setting out to finish this thing. Josh even let me get new running shoes (since I was still wearing ones that had been destroyed by Kona... they had most of the sole left on them!)
Pretty, huh!:

So, as a non runner, I am going to need all of the advice/help/encouragement/threats/bribes from everyone. What should my diet be like? I hope I don't run with my butt sticking out. Or maybe I am supposed to? If I make my palms flat will I really run faster? What about music? If I die during the run will they just kick me over to the curb until the race is over? See, I don't know anything. Please help.

*As a side note, I think it's important for you to know that Weston is in love with Whitney's daughter, Katie. He'll probably ask her to prom next year.

5 YEARS!!!

2011-05-19T15:55:00.001-06:00

On May 18, 2006, Josh and I looked like this:

Ah, we were so young, innocent, naive, full of energy, and probably a little bit dumb...

Please note that by the time this picture was taken we had both melted a little bit -- it was 92 degrees the day we got married, which in fact still holds the record for the hottest temp. on this day in Utah...

This was due to the fact that Josh and I are so sizzling.

And then:

24 e.r. visits

1 college degree

1 new house,

at least 10 gallons of paint

2 new (to me) cars

1 dog (I miss Kona, :( but don't tell!)

3 car accidents

2 beach vacations (really? that's all? Now I am sad!!!)

1 cutest-but-most-demanding-child in the world

20 gray hairs (not mine, please I'm still a baby!)

3,400 diapers

and 5 years later....

We look like this.

And that my friends, is what marriage has done to us.

Eyelashes

2011-04-13T12:17:00.000-06:00

Reason #15 Weston was supposed to be a girl:

He is ridiculously pretty.

Is it normal to be jealous of your son's eyelashes? Because I am. Insanely jealous.

And if that's not normal, I'm not even going to admit that I secretly try to teach Weston how to put on mascara, just so I can see what it looks like.

Girly Man

2011-03-01T16:10:00.000-07:00

Oops -- was I supposed to post in February?
(I used to think I would be posting great, entertaining things several times a week. Then I told myself that I had to entertain the world at least once a month. Then I sat down on the couch and didn't get off for a year.)

My son thinks I'm the bees knees.
He loves to use my makeup brushes and put on headbands and wear my shoes.
He also puts on lotion and hair product and swings his hips when he walks.

Josh does not like.
If Weston gets any more girly, I think Josh will secretly try to give him up for adoption without me knowing.

But I think it's cute.

Waaah.

2011-01-30T17:33:00.000-07:00

Who needs tropical vacations when we can have surgery???

We L-O-V-E to spend any extra cash on Josh's 80-year-old broken body. After all, we have to keep his flawless exterior looking, well... flawless.

So, since Josh has spent his week like this:

Weston has spent his week like this:

Oh, and I've spent my week curled up in the corner in fetal position crying just as much as Weston. But Josh failed to get a picture of that, seeing as he only has one arm. Can anyone say mom/wife fail?

Does it make me a bad person that I am reeeeeally looking forward to Weston going to daycare tomorrow? Does it make me an even worse person that I'm thinking about leaving him there for a few weeks and/or trading him for one of her easier children???

Here's to improvement this week.

{insert new year's title here}

2011-01-05T14:38:00.000-07:00

I feel like I will be left out if I don't post about the new year and the hope it brings. So this is that post.

Except for mine is more exciting because I am posting this:

{my apologies to those who didn't get a Christmas card in the mail. I still love you all.}

Continuing on...
My weird but totally adorable husband has never believed in New Year's Resolutions. So for a while, I gave up on having my own because he refused to encourage me. (I think he was just afraid I'd accomplish mine and he wouldn't... so competitive!!!) But for some reason this year I'm trying to ~~get off my lazy butt and do something noteworthy~~ remain hopeful and optimistic about my future.
So... how am I going to do this? My friend Tasha inspired me to make my very own 30 before 30 list. Because, let's face it, I am turning old this year. Sob. And the worst part is, I've only done 2 of these things. I'll keep updating this post as the months go on -- and see how much I can get done this year!

My Very Own 30 Before 30

(p.s. these are not in any order of importance.)

(p.p.s. don't judge on any of these -- encouragement is appreciated! :)

1. Grow my hair out long

2. Own a bicycle
3. Go surfing
4. Complete my Bachelor's Degree
5. Help Josh find a new job
~~6. Meet the Governor~~
7. Start/ work on my family history
8. Finish my basement
9. Become debt free
10. Don't eat sugar for an entire month
11. Swim with dolphins
12. Complete a 1/2 marathon
13. Learn how to knit and/or crochet
14. Travel to Hawaii
15. Wear a fancy dress to a fancy party
16. Go white-water rafting
17. Sell a photograph
18. Get a new stamp in my passport
19. Take a yoga class
20. Attend a temple session in a temple outstide of Utah
21. Visit Jaylene in Georgia
22. Go to Disneyworld!
23. Play a round (18 holes) of golf
24. Sew curtains for my house
25. Record a song in a studio
26. Win a contest (I don't even care what it is!)
27. Take Josh to Washington D.C. and New York City
28. Go skydiving
~~29. Join a real choir~~
30. Become a better cook and healthier eater

Anyone that can help, inspire, encourage me in my goals? Does anyone have a list of their own?

'Tis The Season

2010-12-06T10:08:00.000-07:00

I always have the best intentions to blog more. But then life happens and I don't get it done. But here I am! So everyone should be overwhelmingly happy. It's okay to even do a cheer right now. I know I just did. And now I will share some priceless gems of information. Or useless gems of information -- however you look at it.

--I always know Christmas season is on us when I can turn on the TV to any channel and Elf is on.

--I also know it's Christmas season because I don't get to watch Elf, I get stuck watching Yogi's First Christmas. (Anyone that has seen this show -- am I alone in wanting to strangle Cindy Bear and her stupid Mistletoe song? Gag!!!)

--Our ward split I think about a month ago. Having to make new friends is giving me anxiety. Help!!!

--Before the ward split, I was really enjoying my ward calling as "semi-active lady who sits in the back row with a screaming child". I felt I fit the role perfectly. Dang split. Now I've been put in the primary presidency. What? Kids? What am I supposed to do with them? They have tiny hands and it weirds me out. Plus they don't think I'm funny, and that's hard on the ego. Oh Heavenly Father, I hope you know what you're doing, because I certainly don't.

--The rumors from the old ward must have spread that Josh is still mentally challenged because he can still enjoy his calling as "semi-active dude who sits in the back row with a screaming child". No fair.

--Yeah, see how I mentioned screaming child twice? Weston hates church. Actually I think he just hates us in general. He's all smiles and happy when he goes to daycare, but by the time we get him home, he throws at least 8 tantrums. Someone tell me this is a phase? Either that or we have a real diva on our hands. Great.

--Weston is getting close to walking! He usually takes a few steps and then forgets the moving-the-feet part and falls on his face. I think he thinks he is supposed to fly.

--Okay I exaggerated for dramatic effect. Weston doesn't hate us all the time. He actually loves us. Well, he loves Josh. He loves to clap his hands, get so excited and squeal for "daddy" when Josh walks into the room. He does say "mama" too, but we just discovered he's actually not referring to me at all. He says "mama" when he wants food. Yeah, I see all I am good for. That's also hard on the ego.

--Also among Weston's vocabulary: "uh-oh", "ball" (his first word), "pa-pa", "good boy", "yeah", "dog", "see ya" (which comes with a really girly hand-wave) and I think "bottle" (ba-ba). Oh, and the word he does direct at me? "Go away". Great, thanks, Weston. I really am feeling like mom of the year here.

--I made a goal last year (I actually make this goal every year) to run 500 miles. In 2009, where I was pregnant for 9 months out of the year, I got pretty close to my goal. This year, I have made it....wait for it.... 19 miles. Yes, that is all year, not this month. Now, quit your judging and just help to get me motivated! I am a lazy disgusting sack of potatoes.

--Does anyone have any ideas for inexpensive Christmas gifts? Blame it on mom brain but I've got nothing up there. Please help!!!!

--Speaking of Christmas, I have had the opportunity to be in Lex de Azevedo's Millennium Choral Society for the past several months. I L-O-V-E singing again! We are putting on a concert for his "Gloria" work on Friday, December 17th and Saturday, December 18th at the Provo Tabernacle. You should come. Because if no one shows up, my already shattered ego will be even more destroyed.

And that's all I've got today. I know, shame on me, I don't even have an adorable picture to go along with the post. I'm saving the element of surprise for the adorable Christmas cards I just designed and ordered!

Time Flies...

2010-11-12T13:18:00.000-07:00

I have officially been the worst mother for over a year! I can't decide if this is worthy of a plaque or a trophy...

It's true, Weston is ONE!!!! I dont' know how this happened. I refuse to acknowledge that he is getting older. So I am going to force him into his newborn clothes for at least a month until the truth sinks in. (it's by doing things like this that I become the worst mother of the year. Not that I'm trying to give away my secrets...)

In reality, Weston can't even squeeze into 18 month old clothing. It must be all that protein powder we've been feeding him. (crappy mommy secret #26)

On the morning of his birthday, he woke up and asked for the keys to the car. Next week he'll probably be bringing some girl home, and we all know there's not much time left until he's having kids of his own. Sniff. My little baby, all grown up!

Many thanks to all of those who attended his awesome Halloween Birthday party on his birthday! We thought "time flies" was the perfect theme. Plus, since I have never finished decorating his airplane nursery (crappy mommy secret #9) it was fun to put all of those cute ideas to life.

(go ahead and comment on how ridiculously cute his invites are. I like to pat myself on the back when things turn out right -- it doesn't happen that often for me!!!)

My fun, talented, AMAZING friend, Tasha, did all the planning, organizing, decorating and set-up while I sat back and had an anxiety attack over frosting the cupcakes. Check out Tasha's fun blog here:

DIY-ing to be Domestic

Because Tasha is sooo amazing, Weston's awesome airplane party was featured on Catch My Party! Click on that to see all of the details from his big day.

Seriously, folks, isn't she amazing? I truly am blessed to have such wonderful friends/adoring fans of my son. Either that, or Josh has been threatening a lot of people. Hard to say.

Josh's sister, Katie, was in town from DC. She was nice enough to make Weston's cute birthday cake! We all know I don't have that kind of talent. Thanks, Katie! Josh's auntie was also in for a visit from New Zealand -- we were so lucky that she was here for his birthday, and also that she made some tasty "lolly-cake" (I still don't think I truly understand what that stuff is...)

Since his party was such a big hit, I think I'll probably have to start planning for his #2 birthday next month. I do believe we'll be hosting his next birthday party at the senior center/ insane asylum where I'll for sure be by this time next year....

Just in case you missed me.

2010-10-14T17:24:00.000-06:00

I apologize for the withdrawal symptoms you all must be going through from me not updating the blog.
I'll buy you a diet coke for the side effects.

I have a story:

I have a hilarious younger sister, Andie. She, being the youngest of 7 girls, is destined to grow up with all sorts of issues. But she sure is cute. (Is it just me or does she look like me much?)

When she was 2, Evelyn and I trained her to pick up the phone by saying "I'm dead sexy".

When she was 3, she watched Jurassic Park every night before bed with my dad.

When she was 4, she learned how to do Tai-Chi (I don't know where... no one taught her, just something she picked up) and we exploited her in front of everyone that came over.

When she was 5, her favorite color was black and she was obsessed with witches.

At some point in her early childhood, Andie won the award for the Queen of DRAMA. (psssh, she did NOT get that from me...) I remember her having to do her Saturday jobs once when she was little. Her Saturday jobs consisted of things like "write a happy note to your sister" or "fluff the pillows on the couch". Nothing like the jobs I had when I was a kid. Spoiled much? She was complaining that her jobs were toooo hard and she didn't want to do them. She began unconsolably crying, and suddenly clutched her chest. "I'm having a HARD-attack" -- she said.

She still is that funny. And dramatic.

Anyway, this story has two morals:

One -- I think I have had like 8 "hard"-attacks in the last two weeks. Can someone throw me a bone here? Whine.

Moral two: I took thought of this story after taking photos of my A-Dor-A-Ble Son last week for his birfday invitation. And then I died of a heart-attack. My child is too good looking. And I'm not even just saying that. (I hope you got the connection there... that's the way my brain works)

All of my posts revolve around my son. Just in case you didn't know.

Wheee!

2010-09-08T10:16:00.003-06:00

My blog is the most neglected blog on the planet.

Funny -- my house is also the most neglected house on the planet. As is my pantry, my laundry, and especially Josh. Just putting that out there.

Moving on -- we had a wonderful Labor Day celebrating Erica's birthday with my family! Carter and Weston had too much fun on the swings. Oh, I love those boys. Have I mentioned that Carter and Weston are best friends? Because they are. I am so lucky to have a sister so close (EV PLEASE DON'T EVER MOVE!) with a little boy Weston's age so they can grow up together. Yeah, that was gushy. Don't judge, I'm in a sentimental mood!

But now it's your turn to gush -- about how seriously adorable these kids are! They don't make 'em any better than this!

Tough guy vs. Girly Man

2010-08-16T15:10:00.000-06:00

Weston has an adorable cousin and best friend:

CARTER.

He is adorable. And a genius/ninja. He's a tough guy -- just look at that mohawk!!! (you can read about him here on Ev's Amazing Blog)

Carter does not like Weston to forget that he is 10 days older and tougher (is that a word?)than him. Weston does not like anyone to forget that he is a whiny little girl. (Remember Alice from my last post? Yeah... her)

Enter Exhibits:

The baby punch:

Carter was a little upset when Weston showed up wearing the same outfit. So like any tough guy would, he showed Weston that tough guys don't wear matching outfits, that girly men wear matching outfits. Weston then did what he does best. Whine.

Takedown #1:

We got together in St. George for their cousin Lydia's blessing. Carter was a little upset that Weston's head is now bigger than Carter's. So he told him to get out of his personal space, yo. Weston, high-centered on his giant belly, whined. And tried to squirm away. But was unsuccessful. Whine.

Takedown #2:

We thought they were playing nice. But then Carter had to show off his superior crawling skills. Weston was in his way. When the shove didn't work, Carter had no problem showing Weston what's up. What did Weston do? He whined.

"Mommy, help me!"

Should we change his name to "WUS-ton?"

But really, don't let it fool you, these guys love each other! Weston's baby lard will soon turn into pure muscle, as he's working out at the gym 3 hours a day and on a high-protein diet. If that doesn't work, maybe we'll try some steroids. And THEN, he'll show Carter who's boss...

(This photo also demonstrates another problem... See the pointed toes? Weston thinks he is a ballerina. Or a mermaid. Hard to tell...)

Not Your Best Moment...

2010-07-10T19:07:00.000-06:00

I love this kid...

I don't think I'm just being a blissfully unaware parent when I say he is absolutely adorable.

Here's a shocker -- Weston got all of his good looks from Josh. (Or the mailman. No one will ever know.) Sometimes I am sad when I realize (and/or get told 5 times a day from everyone that sees me with him) that he looks nothing like me.
However...
Because I have an 'overload' problem when it comes to taking pictures of Weston, we have at least 5000 photos of him since he was born. And every once in a while, in those photos, I am reminded of what Weston has inherited from me.

His ability to step into bad lighting...

I'm sure you've noticed how un-photogenic I can be by now. And as handsome as Weston is, sometimes I fall on the floor laughing at what I get on the camera. I blame myself.

And now, Weston's debut of some of his least proudest moments:

And we'll start with Weston being his alter-ego,"Alice", as we like to call him. Sometimes he is such a prima donna! I'm pretty sure he was crying in French when I took this. Look at those stuck-up pinkies in the air!

I picture him making a noise like "durrr"... Yes, I know my son's belly is so big that it keeps all limbs from touching the ground. It's like a little baby teeter-totter. Weeeee!

He also got his brains from me. Good boy, way to get in your leafy greens for the day. I'm so proud of you right now.

This is what we call the "turtle face". He does it all of the time. It also comes with sound-effects (he sounds like the plant from Little Shop of Horrors. "Feed me, Seymour").

And then there's the "tongue":

Yes, I know you have polynesian blood already. I am very aware of your abnormally large tongue, but thanks for showing me. Again.

And our all time personal favorite:

We mentioned to Weston that he should model for Gap Baby. He had a better idea. Here he is practicing auditioning for the cover of the new "little tummies" laxatives for babies. Sometimes it sucks being all stopped up, doesn't it... Either that or he's trying to get the part in an asian baby ad. It's hard to tell.

But all in all, at the end of the day, he's still my adorable, chubby, daddy's-boy baby. Oh gosh, I love him. As do all of the ladies. And he knows it.

"Heeey, ladies. No, this body is all-natural. I really am that good looking."

2010-06-07T21:32:00.002-06:00

Hey Mom! I wanna steak!!!

Last week Weston's first installment to his million-dollar smile made its appearance. What a cute little bugger!!! He'll be eating prime rib in no time.

My sister, Carrie, has moved in with us for the summer. I'm so happy!!! I feel like I have octopus arms now, and can actually get things done! Who knew I could sit on the couch and have dinner get cooked at the same time! Oops, I think I just admitted I am lazy and sit on the couch while I order my younger sister around the kitchen....

Also among our accomplishments this last week -- Josh passed a monster of a kidney stone (which he named Young Obama, because, in Josh's words, it "causes pain and anguish"). However, I don't have a picture of that nasty thing. You're welcome. Weston's tooth is just so much cuter.

Sadly, I have no noteworthy accomplishments of my own. I live vicariously through my boys.

2010-05-18T09:27:00.005-06:00

whoah -- 4 years!

Today I have been married to Josh for 4 long, happy,

(did i mention long ??)years!!!

{insert extremely sappy, gushing post about how wonderful being married to my one and only has been for the past 4 years}

And then after that mush part, I think I'm supposed to post a picture of us 4 years ago beginning our wedded bliss. Except, we were WAY better looking back then and I don't want people to see how marriage has aged us(mostly me)! Thanks a lot, Josh, I blame my haggard looks all on you! :)

So instead I'll just post a ridiculously cute picture of Weston. Because that's what everyone wants to see anyway.

Anyway, back to the whole anniversary bit -- 4 years, really? How did that happen? It seems like yesterday I was just meeting Josh, and trying to swoon him while in my drug-induced state from my tonsillectomy (it's good that shortly after, he became in a drug-induced state from shoulder surgery and I was able to claim him for my own before he knew any better) -- yes, if you want to know our humble beginnings, just ask sometime. That was a good summer.

And now we are, in the perfect marriage. I mean, really, perfect. I don't know how I got a husband who never leaves the toilet seat up, who never makes me cook a meal, who never leaves his beard shavings in the sink, and never, ever, EVER cuts one loose in front of me...

.... Okay so he does all of those things.

But I love him and don't mind any of that stuff. That's marriage, right? And now with 4 years under my belt, I've become quite the expert. With that said, this is

what I've learned from being married to Josh:

* all it takes to keep Josh happy is some kool-aid in the fridge and some gummy worms in the candy jar. (seriously, why was I wasting years trying to make him happy in other ways? things have been so much simpler since i figured this one out)

* It's not about winning an argument. It's about making him think he's won. And that, my friends, is victory.

* Christmas morning is not Christmas morning without Yogi Bear's first Christmas. Every year. For the rest of my life. (I think next year I will have it memorized)

* Save the drama for your mama. So, you're bleeding out of your eye/having a seizure/just broke your arm/are writhing in pain from kidney stones? No biggie. I won't freak out. We'll go to the hospital after I stop at McDonald's for a hot fudge sundae.

* So I want to watch TV? I have five choices: The A-Team, Pardon the Interruption, Scooby Doo, auto auctions, or the news.

* Fake tears do not work on Josh. Neither do real tears, actually. The best way to break through his hard outer shell into the soft gooey center is to entice him with:

a. bbq pork, b. pillsbury crescent rolls, or c. a trip to the beach.

* Which brings me here: a vacation is not a vacation if a beach is not involved. And that brings me to the next lesson:

* do NOT come between a man and his ocean. I have come to accept that i come second next to the beach. And that is OK.

* He needs a new shirt? Can't decide which one? Oh, wait, get the blue one.

* Need to get his attention? Show up with a large orange hi-c from McDonalds and he's all yours.

I give myself 1, maybe 2 more years until we reach utter perfection.

2010-05-10T10:20:00.005-06:00

My "Mommy's Day"

What a weird thing to be a mommy! To think, last year on Mother's day we told Josh's family we were going to have a baby! And now, here we are, with our 6 month old little "Toa". Love him.

My VERY FIRST MOTHER'S DAY EVER was not the hype I had it planned out to be in my head, (you know, endless pampering, breakfast in bed, Josh suddenly getting over his fear of feet and giving me a heavenly foot massage as I eat strawberries...) as I went up to Thatcher to spend mom's day with my mom and he stayed home. :( BUT when I came home, Josh had some surprises for me. My favorite was my gift card to the buckle:

Don't judge the awful picture taken with my cell phone. If you squint or go cross-eyed it makes it easier to read. But if you are afraid of getting your eyes stuck like that, I have transcribed it below:

"Dear Mommy. I love you Thank you for changing my poopies and feeding me.

Please don't buy 'mom jeans'. Get something nice.

Love Weston"

(Yes, that is Josh's real handwriting. I Love him.)

2010-04-25T20:01:00.000-06:00

"We're going to try this new thing called jogging.

Or maybe it's 'yogging'. It could be a silent 'j'."...

I have been in a blogging SLUMP lately! So, after many whines and complaints -- mostly from myself -- I am BACK! But I have soooo much to write about -- josh's broken arm, my fabulous trip to Ohio to meet my niece, Weston, of course, my adventures as a democratic delegate (yeah, you heard right...) and the list goes on! so instead of writing about ANY of that, I will just show you a picture, and then tell you some of the things I think about during the day...

Does this not crack you up or what! bah ha ha -- I may be a bad mother for torturing my son like this and then laughing at him... Anyway, here are some thoughts:

-- My butt called -- it told me that I need to take up running (yogging?) once again. But I really hate it. I am not a runner -- my face doesn't sweat really well so instead it turns beet red when I work out/run/exert more energy than walking up a flight of stairs. Then people think I am maybe having a heart attack and that is embarrassing.

-- I had a dream a while ago that Kona ate through her skin and died. Man, her food allergies annoy me. (she keeps me up at night with her scratching and now it is haunting my dreams!!!) It really traumatized me!!!

-- Josh's brain spots also annoy me. Most particularly the migraines that they cause. Stupid spots.

-- My favorite thing right now is Weston's pj's that are just a shirt and pants/shorts. I LOVE when his little belly hangs out and I get to blow raspberries on it!

-- I have an uncontrollable addiction to almond joys right now! I must be stopped!!!

-- Dear Weston -- will you grow dark curly locks already?

-- Man, i look hot in my new leather jacket. Sizzle. I probably should buy a motorcycle now to complete the outfit.

-- Weston's new 'vocabulary' of sounds: dadada, gagaga, hi (whispered), and blah blah blah. that one is my favorite. If only he knew what he was saying.

-- He also has developed a banshee screech. Seriously, kid? Ouch, my eardrums are bleeding!!!!

Well, that is all for now. Miss you all!!!

2010-02-25T08:00:00.001-07:00

KONA

our first child

Today is Kona's (made up) 2nd Birthday. For her birthday, we are going to let her sleep on our bed, eat at least 2 pairs of my shoes, steal our dinner off the table, and lick Weston's head.

Wait, she does that every day anyway...

Those of you who haven't met our (insane) dog are missing out! These are just some of the tricks she knows:

She works on the laptop

she SMILES

she WINKS

And if you haven't seen her play catch through the stair railing, you are really missing out. This is her making a basket in the sconce. 2 points!

Before Weston was born, she helped us prepare for a child in the following ways:

*waking us up multpile times at night
*whining/crying. It's nothing new to us.
*cleaning up puke (she has a binge/purge problem)
*not being able to go places at night for the inability to find a sitter
*getting used to not doing what we want to do, but what she wants to do
*cleaning up after her. Seriously, you should see how quickly she can destroy a tennis ball.

Even through all of her craziness, she is still part of our family; and not to mention she adores Weston:

(she gets mad at me if I let him cry for too long, she cleans up his spitup -- i know, gross, right??? -- she gets sooo excited when he comes home from daycare)
It will be fun when they're best buds growing up!!!

Also, maybe one day she'll calm down!!!

(and also maybe one day I'll clip her nails... I'm a bad mom)

2010-02-12T22:39:00.002-07:00

Sending a little love your way for Valentine's Day.

This kid got over RSV in a hurry just so he could pose for some photos for mama! What a champ...

Seriously, yeah, he's that cute in person too.

Other than his nasty 'stank eye'. Hopefully it will be better by tomorrow.

2010-01-24T19:58:00.003-07:00

M.I.A.

I know you've missed us as of late...

I've been busy trying to convince my child his parent's aren't crazy.

This is my favorite face of all. Does that make me a bad mom that I think he's adorable when he's pretending to be sad????

I'm back to work full time. Sob. Weston likes babysitter Jenny more than he likes me -- more sobbing. But other than that, we're still enjoying getting used to our new, dull life as a 'real' family... okay, so we were dull before we have a kid, I just use him as my excuse for going to bed at 9 now...

2009-12-13T19:55:00.002-07:00

December???? Really???

Being a mommy eats my time. The sad thing is, I don't know that I really do anything, but not only have the days gone by quickly, the MONTHS have gone by quickly! Little Chief is now 6 weeks old (what!!!) and as tall as a 2 year old, probably. Now that he is on Prevacid he has become somewhat more happy, which makes me somewhat more happy!

Nothing else has changed, being a mommy also eats away at any form of exciting life I once had. However, I did want to post and say that I posted for the first time on my 'photography blog'!!! So check it out here:. A big thanks to my cool brother in law Jake for designing my logo. I'll have a real website at some point in my late 20's? In the meantime, enjoy the cutest picture ever of some adorable boys.

2009-11-27T09:03:00.002-07:00

ENCYCLOPEDIA OF WESTON COMMUNICATIONS

Good thing I've got this all figured out, huh!!!

2009-11-14T17:22:00.002-07:00

Being a mom means I now get to brag about how cute my child is all of the time, right? Because he is really cute. And by really, I mean like so cute he makes me cry when I think about how cute he is.

Actually, I cry at everything now. What the heck???

Here are some of the sad, frustrating, funny, surprising, and semi-interesting things that we have discovered in the past 2 weeks (he really is that old already? Wow...)

-- Weston has back hair. I fear he is part wolf. I knew he would be a manly man -- I mean, he has sideburns too -- but really? Back hair? If this stuff doesn't fall out soon I'm taking him to the spa to get a nice wax job.

-- Weston, as cute as he is, is sometimes a horrible baby. Yes, I said it. I love him, BUT he screams all but about 5 minutes that he is awake, he poos way too much, won't burp after he eats and will only sleep if someone is holding him. I'm hoping these dark circles under my eyes are not permanent. He also refuses to eat like a normal baby. He HATES my boobs. It made me feel like a huge failure as a mother at first, and still does most days, but I guess I'm getting used to the pump...

-- Josh is the most amazing dad! Take that, all you non-believers!!! He hasn't even tried to slip any nyquil in his bottle yet! :) I laugh daily at Josh's fathering skills, and seriously can't imagine a better daddy. Josh takes care of late-night feedings and I am able to get more sleep. Oh that man has a spot in the celestial kingdom just for that!

The day after Weston was born, the nurse asked Josh to change his first diaper. I laughed so hard I probably peed the bed as Josh put on the rubber gloves to handle his son. Josh has figured out which side of the diaper goes in front now, and it only takes him about 30 minutes to change a diaper. It's an improvement.

During one of Weston's late night crying-just-to-annoy-us fits, Josh was holding him and singing 'twinkle twinkle little star' to Weston. Only, he changed the words -- "twinkle twinkle little star, how I wonder what you are... you eat all day, you poop all night, your diapers give me quite the fright..." He also hums the circus-theme song on a regular basis, don't ask me why. Where did I find this guy? He is the best ever.

-- Kona is absolutely amazing with Weston! She just wants to sniff him all day long, but has not tried to eat him yet. She has eaten about 8 of his binkies though, which is a huge tragedy as those are our lifeline in the hours Weston is awake.

--um, what is up with my child-bearing hips? I guess, since my feet are now normal-sized (hooray!), at least one of my chins has disappeared and I can lay on my stomach, my body had to give me something to cry about! Waaah the giant hips! Go away!!!

--Who knew it would take so long to take care of a baby every day? I am always surprised when I look at the clock in the morning after I feed him, change his diaper about 8 times, make him listen to michael buble so he will stop crying, and learn that it's actually not morning, but 1 in the afternoon and I haven't showered yet. Oops.

-- Maybe it's the part-wolf, but Weston is seriously very advanced for his age. I'm telling you he smiles -- it's not gas, and it's super cute! (he has dimples!!! ah my life is so great!!!) and he also crawls if you put him on his stomach, true story! Well maybe not so much as a crawl as a slither clear across the changing table, but still, it's amazing.

--do all babies have a turtle-ish neck? It is crazy wrinkly and weird. But I still like it.

-- I love watching Weston right before he wakes up. He starts moving his arms and legs like he is doing the back stroke and will do that for about 20 minutes before he decides it is time to cry for 2 hours.

I alway naively thought I'd be a semi-good mother, and am learning that I am a crappy mom! This is hard! Good thing he has at least one sane parent to hold it together. Hopefully over the next few weeks I'll be able to figure this kid out a little more. but yeah, back to the whole point -- he is really, really, REALLY cute.

2009-11-06T14:43:00.004-07:00

Weston Kelly Lund

10.30.09

Yes, it has taken a week to get this blog updated with our BIG news. And by BIG, I mean 8 pounds 10 ounces, 21 1/2 inches big. Weston arrived, to our surprise, last Friday night (10 days early -- still giant!!!) at 7:36 p.m! Who knew I could love anything as much as this guy! So far, Weston has 3 jobs: eat, sleep and mess. The eating and sleeping parts seem to confuse him, but he is messing like a champ -- he may even win a medal.

For those interested in a 'birth story' -- I can sum it up in 3 words: Thank You Epidural. The recovery is going slowly for me, and I pretty much fail at being a mother about 18 hours of the day... BUT we're getting there. And I couldn't imagine it any other way.

2009-10-23T15:50:00.003-06:00

HEY YOU GUYS!!!!!!

I don't blame this post on pregnancy as much as I just blame it on being partly crazy, BUT in the last few months, my dreams (all of which are nightmares!!!) have been plagued with horrible images of our child looking like this:

Seriously, what is wrong with me!!!! I even find myself adding to my prayers at night "and please let little baby get his father's looks and not Sloth's..."

I know I should be hoping that he comes out healthy and strong, being able to see, hear, breathe, etc., and I do hope for that -- but I also am petty and worry about really strange things, like:

-- What if he inherits a recessive squidget gene and only grows to be 5'1"? How will he get the ladies, especially if he inherits a recessive baldness gene? Will our son live with us until he is 35?

-- Is he going to come out with old man (the horseshoe) hair like Josh had when he was little?

-- What if he gets my butt? That suppleness (josh calls it my latin surprise, kristen calls it the 'muffin butt') might be a little awkward on a dude.

--What if he is as dumb as bricks? I will blame that on Josh? Again, will he live with us until he is 35?

--Or what if he is smarter than me by the 3rd grade? What good will I be to him then?

--If he inherits Josh's long "islander" toes, and my long fingers, will learning how to crawl and walk be a real challenge?

--What if he is no good at sports? Josh may disown him!!! Seriously, we are counting on him to be a lefty so we can ride the gravy train!!!
--Is he going to inherit my craziness? Because there's too much of that in our house already.

AND besides the baby and his gene pool, I also worry about my mothering skills:

--What if i am holding him and walking up the stairs and accidentally trip (it happens quite often) and fall on him and squish him and his eyes pop out? Seriously, I think that!!!

-- Will Kona think he is a chew toy and chew off his feet while I am sleeping?

-- What if I bring him to work one day and then forget him and leave him there all night? I have done that to my phone, and I really, REALLY can't live without my phone...

--What if my looks scare him and he cries everytime I hold him? It's happened with many children in the past, no lie!!!

Most days I really think -- whoah, what have i done to myself... This whole mom thing is going to be rough!!

But as long as he really doesn't come out looking like Sloth, I probably should be counting my blessings!!!!

2009-10-18T12:28:00.003-06:00

My Guinness Book of World Records Entry:

Yes, I am quite possibly the world's largest pregnant woman alive. No, we are sure it's not twins. He may have had a twin at one point, which he swallowed, and is now a giant toddler growing inside of me. He may or may not have a full set of teeth and chest hair when (if) he comes out.

Besides the normal reasons of being excited to have a baby -- can't wait to cuddle him, smell his baby-ness, fall absolutely in love with him in every way possible, and more ooey gooey mush, I have a few personal and selfish agendas to having this baby OUT. They are as follows:

-- I can't wait to only have one chin. Actually, I'd settle for two chins. But this five chin thing (I may have 6 by next week) has GOT to stop. It's embarrassing.

-- Sausages for toes and cankles are OUT this season -- it's time I had some normal size feet that can fit into heels.

-- Not that I ever really enjoyed painting my own toenails (that's what little sisters are for!) I can't wait to reach them with ease, without grunting.

-- I am a stomach and a back sleeper. How I miss that dreadfully. And even if I'm actually missing out on the whole sleep part, I really can't wait to at least lie on my stomach for a full 10 minutes.

-- Pants with zippers and button flies. Need I say more.

-- I can't wait to JUMP again. A few months ago I attempted an 'agile' move from a boat to the dock... it did not go so well. Somehow my body didn't go up in the air as planned -- it was more of a trip over the side of the boat into the water. I think when he is out I will call on my childhood roots and attempt to get from one room in the house to the other without touching the floor and only jumping from one piece of furniture to the next (I know you all did it when you were young too, no judging!!!)

-- Oh blessed waistline, I hope you are still there waiting for me somewhere... As well as my belly button.

-- Not that I don't enjoy falling out of my bed every morning on purpose, it will be nice to just sit straight up and daintily/gracefully put my feet over the edge and get out like a normal person. As giant whale-sized as I am, I am surprised I haven't crashed through the floor with my attempted 'acrobats' at escaping the bed. Not to mention the plethora of pillows I surround myself with just to get comfortable!!! I am sure Josh will enjoy having more than 1/10th of the bed as well.

So with that said, I will be holding my breath until Josh Jr. comes out. I wish it would be tonight.

2009-09-03T20:52:00.003-06:00

Welcome Football Season!!!

As I absolutely HAD to have a steak tonight (it's true, it was not a want, it was a NEEEEEED) we decided we could go out to eat to celebrate the start of football season! Ah, who can think of a better way to spend a Saturday than screaming profanities at our television!!!

And now, as Josh watches the Utah game, I get to spend my time editing photos from my favorite shoot so far:

Sara and Brady should have a million kids if they all look like him. He is too cute.

2009-08-30T20:11:00.003-06:00

An Update As Promised...

Prepare for a longie... I'm so sorry for those who endure this whole thing!!! I've let most of the summer waste away without letting anyone know about my fun adventures. Oops. So... illustrated by lovely pictures, here is what I've been up to over mostly the last month...

Jaylene and Steve came in from Ohio! This was the hi-light of my summer for sure. Most of us sisters (Minus Ev, sorry Ev!) were able to go with my grandparents on a drive up to Bear Lake to get a raspberry shake and then a hike around Tony Grove Lake. It was SOOOO much fun -- and ended in the funniest muddy adventure that made me almost pee my pants. Really, I was terrifyingly close...

This is me 2 weeks ago at 28 weeks -- I am much more giant now. Giant like a house. Or an elephant. I get asked all of the time -- when are you due, tomorrow? Sadly, I shake my head and say I have two months left. And then watch as eyes pop out of their heads. My baby probably will weigh 20 pounds when he comes out. Sad.

In July Grandpa Pete had his 80th birthday! We love and enjoy this man so so much -- if you're ever looking for entertaining UFO stories, he's the guy! I don't know what Josh and G-Pa were looking at, but it clearly was more interesting than whoever took the picture...

Summer means spending time with my fabulous sisters! I love these girls so much -- I've had several opportunities to go out and party with these clowns -- this pic is from our adventurous mini golf experience and YES i got a hole in one for reals. I am that good. Ev and Erica did not. They are terrible :)

Ev and I fear that we carry our babies in our new double chins. This is our way of concealing them.

I've also had many more adventures -- involving baby's first time out on a boat -- he really liked it. I liked it up until the point where I tried to jump off of the boat onto the dock and realize I have no grace, nor vertical jump anymore. I tripped and fell into the water. It was awkward.

Another key awkward moment -- ward temple night, which involved a 10 minute wardrobe malfunction -- and I was on the front row for everyone to see and enjoy... The cute temple worker that helped me came up afterward and asked -- "so is this your LAST TIME coming to the temple until after your baby is born?" Yes, that's right. I believe i am kicked out of the temple until November.

So many of my friends are having babies right around me! I am sad I did not post a picture of the fun baby showers I've been lucky to go to -- it has been so much fun to share stories with my preggo friends. Oh they're so cute.

I also DID go to the BE County Fair on Saturday night. I tried to conceal myself from spotting anyone I knew -- and for the most part succeeded. I had a good time playing with Brooke, Sara and Jill's cute kids.

This summer I've also had the opportunity to take many photos of beautiful people! Too bad I am keeping those secret and you don't get to see until they make their debut on my upcoming photography blog. But I have to make baby's quilt and other bedding first before I'm allowed to create that whole thing... Which brings me to the next part -- pics of baby's nursery coming soon! We did get it all painted (minus touching up the chair rail) and the crib and changing table are up! It's going to be so cute!!!

That's my summer in a nutshell. Josh is allowing me to put up fall decorations after labor day!!! He made me wait until October last year so I am happy.

2009-08-25T18:14:00.002-06:00

My parents are funny.

Yesterday was their 30th anniversary!!! Way to go! I'm so happy they've set an example of a lasting marriage and eternal companionship for all us girls to follow. They truly are great parents.

Above is a photo of them clear back in May when we told them they got to be grandparents AGAIN (after Ev had shared her exciting news). They are the most excited people in the entire world to be blessed TWICE this year with their first grandchildren!!! I seriously love them so much. And, while you can stay tuned for a greatly anticipated update post of what exciting things I have been doing over the last month since I posted last (I'll give you a hint -- it involves sitting around being a gushy pregnant woman and a lot of sleeping), I wanted to dedicate an especially gushy post to my parents for being SO GREAT!!!

Dad: I love how he makes up nicknames for everyone. All 7 of us girls have crazy and largely embarrassing nicknames that he calls us by (no I will not tell you!) and he also makes up songs about people. What a hoot. I won't post anything embarrassing about him, like how having 7 girls has made him crazy emotional and extremely tuned-in to sensitivity... Oops.

Mom: Wow, this little quiet lady is a crackup! When we were young and would ask her a dumb question, her answers were always entertaining-- example: "Mom, is dinner ready?" (after it's all set out on the table, clearly ready) she would say "Nope. This is all plastic food from your toy kitchen". and then we would say "mooooooooom" in that little annoyed sing-song voice, and then she would say "what? you ask a dumb question, you get a dumb answer!" Somehow I still ask dumb questions, though. Never learned.

Happy Anniversary, parents! Love you both so, so so much!!!!

And really, I promise to post again SOON.

2009-07-12T12:20:00.004-06:00

I L-O-V-E MY FAMILY!!!

Being pregnant makes me sappy. On a daily basis I am gushing to Josh about how great he is

to me and that I love him so much it makes my heart feel like it's going to burst... (unless I am hungry, then I am mad that he can't have dinner magically appear in 10 seconds... but whatever)

I guess since I'm all gushy, I feel the need to publicly display my crazy emotions -- I am SOOOOO blessed to have the family that I do have -- both my own, and the Lund family. They both are incredible!!! I am happy to be a part of both families for eternity.

And the last thing I want to publicly gush about -- I have been feeling SOOOOOO lucky that I get to be preggo with my sis Evelyn! She doesn't mind that I call her at least 4 times a day to ask weird questions, whine about my cankles, (it's true! I had cankles last week and it was traumatizing!!!!) cry about how my clothes don't fit and tell her my crazy dreams... She is a great sister. I can't wait to have our little boys be best friend cousins! Having a preggo buddy is fun. Plus, we are adorable.

2009-06-18T10:05:00.002-06:00

THE VERDICT IS IN!!!

I can't think of any clever and witty way (gasp!!!) to tell you that we are having a manly MAN!!! (that's right, he will skip right past the cute cuddly little boy stage) This was the FIRST time I have seen Josh show some excitement towards our child! He actually did a little victory fist pump in the ultrasound room! At that point I was embarrassed and told the doctor that I had actually just paid some guy off the street to come in and pretend to be a supportive husband, but clearly it wasn't working out and I needed to get someone a little less awkward. (Nah, that didn't happen. I love my Joshie.)

Also, it is a given: my boy will beat up Evelyn's boy (we saw his bulging muscles as he was training to be Rocky VII in the womb), as long as Ev's boy doesn't eat our boy first. :-) Josh has made it clear that now we know he is a boy, he WILL be left handed and he WILL be an all-star golfer/pitcher/quarterback, as well as a child star (watch out Gerber baby, Mister Lund is coming!!!) and within 5 years we will be riding the GRAVY TRAIN! I am okay with that.

I have now created quite the checklist (I LOOOVE my checklists) of things to accomplish in the next 4 months, top of the list, a NAME!!! We have an excellent last name and the possibilities of creating a rockstar name are endless. Here are our top choices:

(I KNOW I OVERUSE PARENTHESIS BUT PLEASE MAKE SURE TO SAY THESE NAMES ALOUD TO GET THE FULL EFFECT.)

** Leland Lee Lund (this one is a clear favorite)

** Finn Lund

** Scott Lund

** Ty Lund

** Nolan Lund

** Dillon Lund

** Cleveland Lund

Yes, our boy will get all the ladies.

and a p.s. down here -- if you haven't figured out that I am JOKING I am sorry. No, we would not name our boy any of the above. Even with his bulging biceps he would get beat up on the playground. We are funny.

2009-06-15T08:18:00.004-06:00

??????????????????

Wednesday is the day of reckoning!!! Josh still stands firmly by his position that if it's a girl we are giving her back (not to mention if it's a girl, he maintains she can't possibly be his, because he would NEVER create a girl!)

I honestly have no idea... I feel strongly that there's a 50% chance it's a boy??? But that's all I've got. No mother's intuition, no crazy dreams, nothing. I do want to know YOUR opinion though, what do you think?

Boy or girl?

And p.s., little baby offspring -- if you are shy, I may disown you, and punish you for the rest of your childhood. I cannot stand not knowing any longer.

2009-06-06T11:27:00.006-06:00

This is how I get to spend my Saturday:

I took a few photos this morning and am headed back for a second round of this adorable couple in about 20 minutes!!! I'm having so much fun!!!

2009-06-04T14:43:00.004-06:00

Good News Thursday

Today is Good News Thursday! Hopefully good things continue to happen through the weekend and my second wedding shoot EVER will go well on Saturday (it is impressive I still have hair and nails, I have been stressing out so much!!!)

In honor of good news thursday, I am posting this little guy: have you ever seen someone more fit to bring happiness an cheer? What a stud!!!

2009-05-22T10:18:00.005-06:00

Today is my birthday.

I love birthdays! How could one NOT like a day totally centered around ME??? :) Although I am dreading this whole new OLD chapter of my life, I especially love my birthday this year for a few reasons:

1 -- This is my birthday present to me:

Hooray new cars! Happy birthday, me!

2. Josh may or may not push me down the stairs for posting this, but it makes me happy. Last week Josh had knee surgery (again). This picture, however, tells a different story -- that he actually got surgery to become a lunch lady. I look at this picture every day and laugh. So I am posting it for everyone else's enjoyment, and that is a good birthday present to myself.

3-- We are going to the BEACH on Monday for an entire week!!! This is the best birthday/ anniversary present ever. My only wish is that my baby tummy would look more like a preggo belly and less like a spare tire. Come on, kid, can't you be a little more round or something in there??? I do hope no one mistakes me for a beached whale and tries to throw me back in the ocean.

Oh, yes, by the way, it was our 3-year anniversary on the 18th. I did not post some mushy anniversary post for the sole reason that I want to have a 4 and 5-year anniversary and did not want to upset Josh with my mushiness. But it's been a good three years. Really good.

There are many other reasons why I love birthdays, most of which have to do with my AWESOME family and friends!!! Thanks everyone for your wishes and love!

2009-05-11T08:03:00.004-06:00

Forget Swine Flu....

it's the EGYPTIAN FLU!!!

Aaah, it's an epidemic!!! As I have watched close friends and family become affected by this serious condition, I thought I was immune...

When I was 12 I remember coming home from school, and my mom was lying on the couch, not looking too well. I was an overly dramatic child, (possibly still am???) and after several days of coming home to my mom like this, I had a panic attack and was convinced that my mom was dying, that she had cancer or was possibly being poisoned by our water (I did not drink it for days). I broke down and with worry, cried to my mom and begged her to tell me what was wrong!!!

She said to me, "Becca, I have the Egyptian flu"... oh man, this sounded bad. She for sure was dying. I cried some more.

Then I asked her, "what is the Egyptian flu???"

"Well, you get really sick, and then 9 months later, you become a MUMMY!!

Here I am, 13 years later, and I've caught the FLU!!!!

Hooray!

p.s. we are still unsure if it is actually a baby, a chicken nugget or an alien, however, JR. will make his/her arrival sometime around Nov. 9th!!! Also -- if it is not a boy Josh says we have to give it back.

2009-05-05T18:38:00.005-06:00

What, you miss me???

I seem to forget to post. In my defense, I have been extremely busy with the following:

*** Jumping up and down that Ev moved back to Utah so now I have someone close by! Thank you for moving to P.G.

*** Taking pictures of this handsome stud: (girls, he's taken...) He is sending this one out as his graduation announcement. (kidding?)

*** Attending URKA's graduation, congrats! Since no graduation is complete without a giant pineapple....

*** Calling everyone I know to remind them that it is my birthday this month! I turn 19 finally! (Yes, 25 sounds horrible, so I've reverted back a few years in my maturity level for the next little while...) Actually, I've only reminded Josh every day that I demand angel food cake and a full 24 hours of pampering and exclusive attention from him.

Yeah, I really haven't been busy. Instead I spend my days daydreaming about the beautiful California beach -- I'll be seeing you soon!!!!

2009-04-14T20:54:00.011-06:00

Dear Jennae:

May I have your eyelashes please?

You have more than enough to share.

2009-04-03T11:25:00.006-06:00

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice...

Last weekend I got to spend a GLORIOUS day with my best friends from high school, Sara, Jill and Brooke. Jill just had the sweetest baby, Ruby, in February and asked me to take some pictures of her. I was SO nervous! BUT the photo shoot was a lot of fun, and I always enjoy spending time with a bunch of GIRLIES! Here's a little peek at Jill's precious bebe.

(hopefully you can actually click on the links to make the photos larger. I am slightly comput-arded)

NEXT: Lexi (brooke's beautiful daughter) was SO enthralled with tiny Ruby! Since Lexi is too adorably delicious to NOT take her picture:

I secretly wish I could've stolen them both and brought them home with me!!! Ah, my friends make good looking children!

2009-03-24T13:54:00.003-06:00

We're still here...

Here's an update on us:

Kona, besides being half satan, is half genius. Not only does she know how to get ice out of the fridge dispenser, she can now also open drawers and cupboards and eat anything inside, whether it's edible or not. Who knew I'd have to baby-proof my house for a DOG.

Josh is heading back to work full time tomorrow! Huzzah! (because we are pirates, we say words like that) He is still not sleeping and keeps calling me Maria, but he lied through his teeth to the doc so he could stop spending so much time with Satan-Genius.

Josh also won an award for having the WORST LUCK EVER this week. A big hats off to that.

I have been able to see some of my dearest friends lately -- oh how happy you all made me on Friday! :) This week is also filled with more dear friend reunions. I am so excited!

We finally got a real gym membership -- no more mooching off SLCC for me! Sadly, I am already panting by the time I walk up 0ne flight of stairs to get to the treadmills. Don't judge!

My new camera comes in the mail today! This is probably more exciting than a baby.

And also, check out my sister Ev's blog! She is making my life even more complete! LOVE YOU EV!

And lastly, I found this video today that someone sent me years ago. It is funny, and I wanted everyone else to enjoy.

2009-03-08T10:13:00.006-06:00

Back to the real world...

Now that I successfully infiltrated the scary world of high school once again and managed to win the hearts of millions of teens... back to life! Tour was... a little overwhelming, a little annoying and mostly tiring, but I could not complain about the 80 degree weather out in CA! I miss it dearly. Josh pretended not to miss me, but when I came home he was wearing one of my shirts that smells like me.... Okay that's a lie, but we can all pretend, it's a funny image!

Next, I must apologize for the lack of funniness in this post -- don't want to disappoint my eager 'viewers?', but I will blame it on the fact that I am hung over from entirely too much sleep this last week.

Before I left for CA I had the opportunity to spend time behind the lens with my good friends the Ireys -- Tawnie wanted some new pictures of them together (they've been married 5 years! Where has the time gone????), and Dan was a good sport and managed to smile and stay upbeat after working all night and coming straight to do the photos. Anyway, here's sharing how good looking they are!!

2009-02-23T12:59:00.005-07:00

Gonna Get my HIGH SCHOOL on!

As embarrassing as it is, I am EXCITED beyond words to head out to California tomorrow and "chaperone" (I use that term very, very loosely) for the Bear River High School choir/drama/orchestra/band/colorguard/ tour! I am leaving Josh alone to fend for himself and attend speech therapy all by himself like a big boy! (I have told him that he is training for the special olympics, and now he is excited as can be!) as well as try to take care of the devil's labrador. (also, we did take her to the vet, and it is confirmed, she is one-half Satan) My trip is two parts self-serving, as I will have an incredibly fun time pretending I am in high school again, only way cooler this time, as well as making Josh realize how helpless he is without me and that he will never let me leave his side again. To better prepare myself to hang out with high school kids once again (contrary to popular belief I did not graduate last year...) I have been polishing up my high school skills as follows:

*Using the word "like" well, like every other word.

*Working on my excited girl squeal. This can also be accompanied by short bursts of jumping up and down.

*"Oh my gosh, like did you see him checking me out? He thinks I am, like, totally hot!"

*Polishing up my texting skills. Using LOL and OMG in every day, real conversation is also okay.

*Working on my gossip -- and creating drama. e.g. -- "She said WHAT about you? I can't believe it. Whatev, her boyfriend is cheating on her anyway, it's true, I saw him."

*Listening to the top 40's stations so I can know all the words to the popular songs and sing along, loudly, to the radio.

*Accustoming my body to only 4 hours of sleep per night. This is a mandatory tour rule.

*Giggling. And then giggling a little more at my giggle.

*Bringing at least 32GBs worth of memory cards for my digital camera to document every minute of the trip, starting with the bus ride. I have also been practicing my "high school picture face", which involves looking as weird as possible.

*Practicing my new talking voice, which is 8 notes higher and 200 decibels louder than my usual talking voice.

*Buying graphic tees -- shirts that say "thugs need hugs", "I'm kind of a big deal" and "your mom goes to college" will be a basic staple of my life.

AND since I cannot embarrass myself anymore, I am also including, for your enjoyment, pictures from when I was actually in high school. And for those who are incriminated in these pictures... HA HA! You go down with me! :)

Brooke, Sara and I. Like, what babes. The guys wanted us.

I love these girls!

These two pictures are actually from when I attended choir tour to NYC!

(this one is kind of hard to see... thanks, oh faithful, trusty scanner at my parent's house!)

Also, I did not pick these pictures. I asked my sister to e-mail me some pictures of me in high school and this is what I got.

2009-02-08T13:24:00.006-07:00

Josh's Happy Place

The doctor gave Josh an assignment this week -- to help his brain heal, he needs to take it to a relaxing, happy place... So I made this photo for Josh. I can already see it working -- he has remembered my name for three days in a row! I laugh so much at this photo I try not to snort. It is that funny to me.

Josh polishing up his surfing skills that he never knew he had (he doesn't remember NOT being this good, so if it didn't look so fake, it could be real, right?)

And also, why do we not live on a beach? Would it be highly impractical to tear out the grass in our backyard and fill it with sand?

2009-01-12T14:23:00.005-07:00

Felt Great (???) in 2008!

Yeah, yeah, the new year's been here for 12 days, but 2008 was just so great we're still hanging on! 2008 was quite an.... adventure? I keep telling myself that the ups and downs of life make life into a fun rollercoaster, even if it makes you puke a few times along the way?

Really, 2008 was not that bad -- we don't regret a thing! Still, we learned a lot and Josh, amazing as it sounds, still loves me at the end! Here are a few of the highlights/things we learned in 2008: (and when I say "we", I mostly mean "me"...)

--Dogs are not as fun as children. They are, however, just as needy and expensive.

--Our new guard dog, Kona protects us from getting a good night’s rest, not having to buy new electronics, glasses, socks and other expensive items she keeps chewing up, and she is vigilant in making sure she eats more of our food than we do. She works 24/7 and is truly priceless. The best part is we got her for free. Wow, they really saw us coming...

--It is not a good idea to take your motion-sick husband go-cart racing for your anniversary.

--Prenatal vitamins do not grow babies. Hair and nails did not grow either. What a jip.

--Men who do not go to the hospital at least 8 times per year are not real men.

--Josh lost a portion of his memory in December. He now firmly believes he is single and brings dates home on a regular basis. Women only, any takers?

--I decided to capitalize on Josh’s memory loss by telling him that he works three jobs, and now he gives me all of his money to spend lavishly on me.

--Having more than one brother-in-law with the same name is not confusing, it is cool. Also, it gives me more excuses to come up with cool nicknames that way. Still waiting for Jakes #3, 4, and 5.

--Solving the mystery of “which auto immune disease do you have” is NOT cool, exciting or adventurous like a Scooby Doo mystery. Nor does it have theme music.

--Electing a President can instantly end world hunger, solve global warming and cure cancer.

-- Playing Mario Kart on the Wii for hours on end is NOT a waste of time. It teaches valuable driving techniques, such as having individualized insults when you electrocute or pass others, and throwing bombs BEHIND you as you drive.

--Nieces and nephews are truly as good as they sound. Niece Hadley can also eat her weight in food on a regular basis. She is huge but still cute.

--If you’ve gotta work two jobs, get a second job where you work with teenagers who idolize you. I really can never run out of teenage dating horror stories to entertain the masses.

--Josh’s dirty deeds done cheap business, founded in March, is taking off. Selling alcohol to minors or getting rid of neighbor’s annoying pets are just a few of the services he provides. Cash only, please.

Although 2009 hasn't brought us sunshine and rainbows yet... we remain optimistic -- it's only a matter of time before Josh's superhero powers kick in.

2009-01-02T20:41:00.012-07:00

Just in case you missed us...

December was too busy and fun-filled (especially those hospital visits!) that I forgot to blog about them. But since no one's life is complete without some pictures of us (we are incredibly good looking, we know), here are a few good ones from the past month:

Don't judge the rock star tutu. It made all the difference.

No, PETA, making dogs wear reindeer antlers is not torture.

Josh finally agreed to have a photo taken with me. And both sides of his mouth ALMOST smiled. Merry Christmas to me!

Hadley: "Oh, uncle Josh, you're so dreamy!"

Josh: "Why yes, yes I am."

Our heads may be almost the same size. Those Lund babies sure like to eat! (I think she is staring at food off in the distance)

2008-12-16T09:51:00.002-07:00

Since that link doesn't want to work:

http://www.providentliving.org/ses/birthmother/searchprofiles/0,12268,2133-1,00.html

Go here instead.

Just do a search for SteveandJaylene (one word)

2008-12-11T15:30:00.006-07:00

All I want for Christmas...

My lovely sis, Jay-meister and her adoring husband, Steve-o have been approved for adoption!!! They would be the most adoring, wonderful parents. And that child would be spoiled rotten by the coolest Aunt ever! I want for Christmas/Valentines/Independence Day/Thanksgiving is a little niece or nephew ankle-biter, people! Is that too much to ask? Anyway, since I have adoring fans and blog-stalkers that span the universe, (and really, I secretly wish I did) I thought I would post a link to their adoption site --Go ahead, spread the word... perhaps you know of someone who is looking for them!

Wonderful Scott Parents To-Be.

2008-12-03T19:21:00.004-07:00

We must've been naughty this year...

Santa dropped off the devil's labrador early.

2008-11-08T13:30:00.003-07:00

Halloweeeeeen.....

A little late, but still the pictures are so cute! Not much to say about Halloween other than we had a great time! It was fun getting to hang out with our Hadley the monkey and Kaden (a.k.a. Tony Stark) Hadley looks more Lund-ish every day! Josh was the Trojan Man and I was

GiGi the kill for hire. Thanks again to Steve and Kristi for their fun party! Here are some pictures from the night -- I have more great ones but this is what you get.

Seth and Brittney, you guys are one hot pirate couple!

2008-11-05T13:43:00.005-07:00

Cynical in my old age, perhaps?...

I was reading through some old e-mails from my lovely younger sister and found this one she sent me over a year ago. Oh, what a sweet, sweet person Erica is! She always is positive and uplifting. Are we from the same parents? Really? My initial response to the e-mail was as posted below. (the original e-mail is in the regular type-- my responses are italicized and in green)

----- READ THIS VERY SLOWLY... IT'S PRETTY PROFOUND.Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine.

I got to thinking one day about all those people on the Titanic who passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back. From then on, I've tried to be a little more flexible.

Sometimes I get to think about all those people on the Titanic who ATE dessert, and when the Titanic hit the iceberg, all that jolting around made them really sea-sick. The movie doesn't depict all the dessert puke all over the boat, now does it...

How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't suggest going out to dinner until after something had been thawed? Does the word 'refrigeration' mean nothing to you?

If I had thawed something and was planning on cooking a delicious meal, and my husband looks in the kitchen, sees that I'm cooking and says "hey let's go out to eat" I'd be a little offended, since clearly he might be implying that my cooking sucks!!! Instead of this ingenious "refrigeration" word the author uses, I'd make my husband eat that thawed piece of meat, not cooked, just to show him how bad my 'cooking' can be.

How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you watched 'Jeopardy' on television?

If my kids have dropped in to talk, I'm getting a little worried since I didn't think I had any. But even more worrisome would be if I was watching Jeopardy.

I cannot count the times I called my sister and said, 'How about going to lunch in a half hour?' She would gas up and stammer, 'I can't. I have clothes on the line. My hair is dirty. I wish I had known yesterday, I had a late breakfast, It looks like rain.' And my personal favorite: 'It's Monday.' She died a few years ago. We never did have lunch together.

We can't eat lunch if our hair is dirty, how unhealthy! How does she not know that?

Because we cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our headaches.. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves when all the conditions are perfect!

I can't go to lunch next week, I've scheduled in a headache Friday between 11:30 and 7:30 -- sorry. Also, my hair will probably be dirty.

We'll go back and visit the grandparents when we get Steve toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the living-room carpet. We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of college.

It's true, Steve really does need to learn that whole toilet training thing -- especially since he's done it so much on the living room carpet that we have to replace it. Who needs a second honeymoon when we can watch Jeopardy in silence with our kids anyway?

Life has a way of accelerating as we get older. The days get shorter, and the list of promises to ourselves gets longer. One morning, we awaken, and all we have to show for our lives is a lit any of 'I'm going to,' 'I plan on,' and 'Someday, when things are settled down a bit.'

Do you want to know what else usually accelerates near the end? A roller coaster. Which is unlike this person's life, who we'll call "Ms. Regret".

When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure and available for trips. She keeps an open mind on new ideas. Her enthusiasm for life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes, and you're ready to trade your bad feet for a pair of Roller blades and skip an elevator for a bungee cord.

And also, Ms. "regretting not eating ice cream on the Titanic", skipping the elevator for the STAIRS is also not a bad choice.

My lips have not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's just that I might as well apply it directly to my stomach with a spatula and eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and bought a triple-decker. If my car had hit an iceberg on the way home, I would have died happy.

A triple-decker, really? One layer for each of your fat rolls?

Now..go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to......not something on your SHOULD DO list. If you were going to die soon and had only one phone call you could make, who would you call and what would you say? And why are you waiting? Make sure you read this to the end; you will understand why I sent this to you.

Well I'm waiting because you have forced me to read this to the end to understand why you sent this to me. Is it for a guilt trip? Because I'M not the one feeling guilty that I just ate a TRIPLE DECKER IN THE CAR.

Have you ever watched kids playing on a merry go round or listened to the rain lapping on the ground? Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight or gazed at the sun into the fading night? Do you run through each day on the fly? When you ask 'How are you?' Do you hear the reply?

I tried to gaze at the sun once, and then I realized I went blind. What a stupid thing to do.

When the day is done, do you lie in your bed with the next hundred chores running through your head? Ever told your child, 'We'll do it tomorrow.' And in your haste, not see his sorrow? Ever lost touch? Let a good friendship die? Just call to say 'Hi'?

I lost my sight, you idiot, not my touch. I can still touch.

When you worry and hurry through your day, it is like an unopened gift....Thrown away .. .. Life is not a race. Take it slower. Hear the music before the song is over.

What, our lives have theme music? I guess when the people on the Titanic were dying and throwing up, they got music. Man, they got dessert AND music too? Lucky.

Send this to everyone you consider a FRIEND. If it comes back to you, then you'll know you have a circle of friends.

OR you could send this to everyone you consider a LAZY SLOB who never calls you and you're bitter about it. Maybe they'll bring you ice cream later.

'Life may not be the party we hoped for... but while we are here we might as well dance!'

What kind of dance? Polka? Because I'd rather throw up on the Titanic.

2008-11-02T19:12:00.006-07:00

I Heart Lazy Sundays!

If I could pick a day that it had to rain all day, it would be Sunday! I've got to spend all day inside baking cookies and playing with Kona the Devil's Labrador, and even got a nap! (but only until Kona decided to eat my arm and that woke me up... dang.)

I also played around on the computer a little, wishing I had a monitor to our old computer so I could get all the photos off there and play with them!

Josh and I had a wonderful, busy Halloween -- pictures to come! We want to thank Steve and Kristi for throwing such fun parties every year -- we wouldn't know what to do if we didn't have an excuse to dress up once a year. Next year, our goal is to win best costume (most times we kind of put something together last minute, but I think we have next year planned. Josh will actually let us dress up to match, how exciting!)

Here are some pictures to leave you with:

Who knew that a man-made lake could look good? I snapped these photos while walking Kona at Daybreak Lake down the road a few days ago.

These are a few pictures from the family photo-shoot with the Atkinson family. They make me look good!

2008-10-27T10:22:00.005-06:00

"Girls Never Listen"

I love spending time with my two favorite kids. Last Sunday we had a birthday dinner for both Heather and Josh at the in-laws home, and Kaden and Kaysee were having a great time playing with Kona. I, in my camera prowess, was able to catch this shot:

The dialogue that goes with this photo was as follows:

Kaysee: Hmmm, let me think. I think Kona wants to play with the fish in the pond.

Kaden: No, Kaycee, Josh and Becca said that Kona can't go in the pond.

Kaysee: Hmmm. Yes, I will let her play in the pond with the fishes.

Kaden: (Sighs) Ugh, girls never listen....

2008-10-18T14:22:00.001-06:00

Happy Birthday To You...

This post is just a little late -- so what, I've been too busy to blog at home and upload pictures of this old man who also happens to be my husband. Ah, where do the years go?

Josh turned the big 2-7 on the 5th of October (which, f.y.i., is apparently the most common birthday in the world, who knew?) My parents and all the "illegal" sisters (that means anyone under 18, not illegal aliens, sheesh) came down to watch conference with us, and my mom made delicious lasagna for lunch/dinner. Next, the main food event: Josh's football birthday cake! I have been forced to cross off cake-decorating from my resume, because I am an awful cake decorator. It was a mess. But it was delicious and Josh gave me three points for cleverness.

Moving on -- I thought Josh's birthday post would be an excellent time to incorporate a tag I received from Sara. Many of you may not know my husband very well, so here are some funny quirks about him:

MY JOSH:

1. He will not wear shirts without a collar. True. He thinks he has a long giraffe neck, and will not wear a plain t-shirt. Who knew someone could be self concious about a NECK? Also, he has at least 10 blue polos. I think they are all the same color. He assures me they are completely different shades. If you think Josh keeps wearing the same shirt over and over again, he really doesn't. There are just 10 of them.

2. Josh will not swim in public pools -- for fear of floating poo (or "brown trout" as it is so affectionately called, sorry I know that is gross). Not even dip his toe in. Last summer when that whole crypto-thing came out Josh wore his "I told you so" face for at least 3 months. Along with his fear of public places -- his hatred for Disneyland. We went there on our honeymoon before our cruise and apparently his experience was so bad he will never return -- maybe he felt like he was babysitting the whole time, as I LOVE disneyland and was running and squealing everywhere? I actually forced him into going once after and he and his friend Jake literally whined the whole time... Really, he hates most public places, he's all phobic weird.

3. Josh is Uncle Sam? I have never met someone more patriotic! He really gets after me about my civic duties as a citizen-- yes I am voting next month --, wears his American flag tie on a regular basis and absolutely LOVES the 4th of July! Apparently we are naming all of our unborn children after Ulysses S. Grant -- as he is Josh's all-time hero (and to prove it, he bought a giant photo of him to hang in our house... ugh...)

4. Josh wears flip-flops at least 9 of the 12 months a year. He does not like shoes. To match his polos, he also has approximately 10 pair of the same flip-flop. I suspect he wears them to show off his freakishly long toes --he says they are his Polynesian heritage, made for walking in the sand-- even if it is 30 degrees outside. The only times he does not wear flip-flops is if it is raining or snowing heavily.

5. Another one of Josh's all-time heroes: Santa Claus. I must have had a bad experience as a child that I have blocked out of my memory because I find real-looking Santas creepy. Josh, however, is nuts about Christmas and Santa, cannot get enough of real-looking Santas, and even wishes we had a lifesize Santa decoration in our front entrance. (How creepy would that be? some fat bearded guy staring at me every time I come home?) We fight about this every year-- Santa vs. Snowmen. Josh insists that we send out Christmas Cards that look like this:

Hence, this is why no one gets Christmas cards from us, gross.

6. Josh watches cartoons every day. But not any cartoons, just old, "classic" cartoons. I wake up in the morning and turn on the TV to watch the local news (I should be informed says Josh) and it is always on some Cartoon channel -- apparently this is what he watches before he goes to bed. Our DVR is full of X-Men and Scooby-Doo re-runs. Every Christmas Eve (again, he really, really loves Christmas) we watch Yogi Bear's First Christmas and every October we start watching Scooby Doo Halloween specials. He may have just turned 7 and I mistakenly added a 2 in front of it? Oh, and also, he owns at least 10 Justice League action figures. And yes, we play with them.

7. I don't really know if this is a quirk, but it is something that cracks me up -- there is something about Josh that makes him incredibly attractive to other men. At any given time there are at least 3 guys out to make Josh their boyfriend. Several years ago some guy asked Josh to move in with him (the "perk" this guy used -- I have a shower for two!) Josh gets pretty uncomfortable when guys wink at him or make a go for his back side, but man, I crack up every time! Apparently, Josh is "pretty".

8. Josh talks in his sleep. And he is hi-larious (that is also one of Josh's things -- hi-larious is said just like that, with a pause in between the hi- and the -larious). My still all-time favorite, is when he told me so matter-of-fact-ly that aliens are more afraid of us than we are of them. Most of the time his sleep-talking comes with complimentary hand gestures.

I really lucked out. Josh also reminds me of that every day. How in the world did I end up with him? However it happened, it sure is entertaining every day! And for any of you who haven't had the chance to experience Josh in the full-extent of his funniness, COME ON OVER! If it's my cooking that scares you away, we'll order pizza.

2008-10-14T13:15:00.002-06:00

The Trax Chronicles

(this post was actually written several months ago and I forgot about it until now -- I thought it was still funny/awkward so I thought I'd share my story)

Sometimes I feel a bit more humanitarian when I get to tell people I ride the train to work. What a great thing! Before we moved to our new house, we lived right by the trax station, and now that we live so far away from downtown, it's just easier to hop on and not have to think about traffic jams.

Sadly, not everyone shares my love for Trax. Josh, for example, won't ride anymore. We once rode the train to a conference session so we wouldn't have to try and find parking downtown, and some guy was touching his butt the whole time since it was so packed, and that was just a tad uncomfortable for him. I've never understood Josh's distaste for riding Trax, after all, I don't mind sitting uncomfortably close to someone I don't know, and most of the time I just bring a book or my i-pod and people leave me alone. Even the time when I rode with a mental case all the way home, who quoted bible passages and Geoffrey Chaucer the whole way, and also asked me to leave my husband and be with him -- that wasn't so bad. The time when a fellow from Atlanta commanded me to smile, and when I did, told me he was going to call all his friends in Atlanta and tell them to move out here so they could see my smile wasn't bad either. It was almost flattering, really. I really enjoyed the hospital patient who showed me his motorcycle accident skin grafts ALL THE WAY UP HIS LEG (yes I mean all the way). And also, the teenage boys who tried to rob me, and who were very, very unsuccessful, they just needed my cell phone to call their moms, it was alright.

HOWEVER... This morning, I think my comfort level with the whole riding with strangers thing was just a tad breached.

I was miraculously early in getting ready this morning, so I hopped the earlier train, eager to get to work and prepare for a client meeting. I was relieved to see that the train had a few empty seats, and I was lucky to get one of the last ones. I sat next down to a kid who was clearly on his way to school, and clearly must have stayed up late studying, (or something like that) since he was fast asleep. I thought great, sleeping seat buddies are always the best, that way they won't bother me. I thought wrong. I should've realized when I sat down and I could smell his morning breath, even though his mouth wasn't even open, that this was my cue to leave. But I felt guilty for rushing to the seat before everyone else could get to it, and decided I'd just have to bear it. Then, suddenly, his hand fell from his backpack, and dropped right on to my leg. I thought for sure he'd wake up when he realized his hand was on some lady's thigh, but he didn't. I tried to wriggle from under it, but it just followed my leg clear to the side of the seat. I then, gently, pushed it off with my purse. It laid to rest, still touching my leg, on my side of the bench. Phew, that wasn't so bad, I thought. I guess, subconciously, he thought it wasn't so bad either, since his head then switched drooping directions over my way and hovered about an inch over my shoulder. His morning breath was now unbearable. I tried breathing through my mouth, and that just made it worse. I wondered if I could hold my breath for the next 20 minutes, after all I'd seen a magician do it on television. I started to get nervous that a big drop of drool was going to land on my lap, or even worse, my arm. I kept inching away further to the side of the seat; only half of my one butt cheek remained on the seat at this point. Oh, but that kid just kept on sleeping, his body leaning more and more towards me. I wondered if everyone else noticed my level of uncomfort, but no one did. Everyone was too busy applying makeup, reading books, or staring blankly, straight ahead, to notice my unease. I thought, maybe if I think about it hard enough, his body will just sway the other way, and his head would just lay gently on the window. I even tried nudging his body so it would just fall that way, but it just would come back, this time even closer to me. I couldn't believe how slow time was moving.

FINALLY my train stop was next! I lept up from my seat, and watched the kid almost eat the ground when I moved. He awoke with a start, wiped up his drooly face, and looked up at me. I thought for sure he'd be super embarrassed and maybe apologize, since I was embarrassed for him. But he didn't. Instead he gave me this wide, cheesy grin, and then closed his eyes and laid against the window.

I am okay with standing up from now on.

2008-10-04T17:05:00.003-06:00

My New "Skill"?

The Atkinsons spoiled Josh and I last weekend to dinner and play time, and let me use my new 50mm lens to take some family photos. As I was playing around with their photos this week, I became super sad this week at my lack of computer skills doing the whole digital scrapbooking thing. Any tutors available? Anyway, I feel at least a little accomplished at what I've learned all by myself today.

2008-09-27T15:51:00.004-06:00

The Joy of Parenting!

Well maybe not "parenting".... but close enough. Josh and I have expanded our family and now own a wonderful, crazy, very cute but mostly terrorizing 7-month old chocolate lab named Kona and we already love her VERY much --who knew it only took 2 days? It's a lot of hard work, but it's about time I had some unconditional love around here!

This picture cracks me up! This is her favorite toy

2008-09-21T18:51:00.004-06:00

Our Pretty Bedroom

Although I'm sure I'll change the room soon, here are the first ever pictures of inside our new home!

2008-09-19T10:52:00.004-06:00

OPTIMISM -- day dreamer more eloquently spelled

-- Mark Twain

I've had a fantastic week full of reflection and uplifting friends! On Wednesday I had the opportunity to go to the temple with a long-lost friend from college and we had such a wonderful time! She really helped me start putting things in perspective and realize all of the wonderful blessings my trials have been in disguise!

And first of all -- my wallet was found! I didn't write about this because I was waiting fore more people to feel sorry for me, hello!!!! A few days after it was stolen, (and after many, many prayers that God would just allow it to be sitting on my desk, unscathed...) I got a call from the bar down the street saying they had found my wallet in the trashcan of their bathroom! Gosh, I must have left it there after I got hammered... I am just so grateful that Heavenly Father does answer prayers! Hooray!

Anyway,

I have decided that although life really sucks sometimes, being optimistic about it maybe isn't that bad after all. My new goal in life is to turn all of those little "ick" moments into something good. For example:

THE BAD-- Josh hurt his GOOD KNEE! why, oh why. (let's pray for no surgery this time!)

THE GOOD -- Maybe I can beat him at tennis now that he can't run after the ball?

THE BAD-- Camera still gone, sniff.

THE GOOD-- If I have no camera to take pictures of, I can't have pictures to look bad in!!!

THE BAD-- Still not feeling great, doctors still can't pin it down.

THE GOOD-- "Mystery disease" can get me out of subbing in nursery.

THE BAD-- Have to go back to my second job next week.

THE GOOD-- Actually, it's not that bad. I secretly like having friends that are still in high school

THE BAD-- My house is a mess. How does that happen in just one week?

THE GOOD-- I've been practicing my manipulation skills all day -- Josh might just be tricked into wanting to clean it, even with only one leg.

THE BAD-- Someone, oh someone please help me decorate my house! I am a failure!

THE GOOD-- No one comes over to see it, I can keep my decorating failure to myself!

Actually, I finally got curtains for our bedroom! It is finished! I will take pictures (with my other camera, but keep that one a secret so it doesn't get stolen) and awe you with how good it looks despite my aesthetic ineptitude.

2008-09-10T08:22:00.003-06:00

PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN

Josh and I are SO happy to announce the newest US Citizen: mom Mary Lund! We're so proud to call her our little Kiwi-American! Now if we could just convince her to vote this fall...

2008-09-01T17:48:00.004-06:00

When it rains, it pours...

Today's rain seemed to be an echo of the way my heart has felt this last week. However, I also feel that after the rain comes the blessings of the rain... Now I just have to wait for the blessings.

It is kind of ironic that I just blogged about Josh's crime-fighting abilities -- they really need to kick in now! Friday while I was at work my office was ransacked and my wallet and camera were stolen! I feel so violated! What a pain it has been to cancel all my bank accounts and credit cards, not to mention I have to get new insurance cards, a new drivers license and library card! Not to mention I was only 4 stamps away from getting a FREE MEAL at Cafe Rio! So to whoever stole my life -- YOU JERK!

That being said, I'll move on. Josh is thrilled, to say the least, that football season has arrived!

Saturday we had some friends over to watch the Utah v. Michigan and BYU v. Northern Iowa games and we have started training Alondra at an early age where her allegiance should lie. If she isn't the cutest thing...

2008-08-13T14:37:00.003-06:00

I am DYING to blog about my cousin Cami's beautiful wedding, and especially my awesome, adventurous, oh so fun family vacation up to Park City this week, but first I need to take a nap, AND post some photos of my beautiful sister Carrie, who was a princess and let me take some 'Senior Photos' of her this weekend. I know I've already dedicated a special post to her beautifulness, but honestly, I can't help myself -- she is so photogenic! Take a look for yourself:

2008-08-07T18:45:00.004-06:00

My husband, the crime fighter!

Although I've had a great 2 weeks with loads of stuff I could blog about, I owe Josh a post from 3 weeks ago. Josh absolutely HATES the fact that I blog (and we won't even mention that I have a facebook for the sake of our marriage...) and mentions it on a regular basis that I am a shame to the Lund family name. But THEN, all of the sudden, 3 weeks ago Josh actually asked me (very politely even, it was impressive!) if I would commemorate a special post to his amazing skills. I am sure many of you know by now that Josh is amazingly good looking (that one is quite obvious, especially to him!), can swing a golf club like he was born with it, has super-human strength, may even be immortal actually, knows everything about U.S. History and can even hold his own in a fierce political debate. So I shouldn't have been surprised when Josh went and pulled off his crime-fighting stunt and, after much research and investigating (we're talking skills to impress C.S.I. here) he caught the guy who had stolen his $52! "Jose", as we like to call him, has been severely reprimanded by the police and hopefully his criminal ways won't continue where he is now. Josh has been feeling quite victorious about his snatch, even though he won't be getting his money back...

Josh, Mr. McGruff would be proud to give you an honorary crime fighting badge!

2008-07-21T08:27:00.005-06:00

The "KIDS" Question

It seems that since we've been married more than 2 years now, have a place of our own (finally!)and even more especially since the birth of our cute niece Hadley, we can't avoid the "kids" question. "When are we going to see a little Josh walking around?" "So now that you have a house, you're making a nursery for your Jr. Becca, right?" Usually, people get the usual answers to these questions from Josh, such as "Oh, crap, honey, did you leave baby in the trunk again?", "Picturing Becca as fat, hormonal and pregnant makes me throw up", or "Didn't you know, we have a kid, he's just ugly so we leave him in the closet". Usually people quit asking us after a while.

So for all of you wondering why after 2 years we don't have kids (gasp!), I've come to the conclusion that we're scared to death, probably because of the usual reaction I get from a small child. Case in point:

I really am that upsetting!

(This one may be my favorite, as I am getting the world's worst crusty. Who knew i could be so disgusting to a one month old baby!)

Sadly, though, I am not alone in my quest to be hated by all children. Our dear friend Kaycee (pictured with Kaden below) really took the opportunity to tell Josh how she really felt a while ago. Conversation was as follows:
Josh: "Kaycee, do you like the fireworks?"
Kaycee: "Yeah. You're ugly"

2008-07-09T13:27:00.007-06:00

Happy Birthday America!

Yes, the above photo is firework vomit. No other place than Taylorsville Days puts on quite the display, the grand finale this year was quite powerful!

I guess before I delve into my 4th of July weekend I have to report on the week before (Taylorsville Days). Ever since Josh and I dated we've made it an event to go, and drag Jami along with us every year! I love fireworks so, so much, and we had such a great time! Here's a photo of our love triangle:

Moving on... I must've known what I was doing when I married Josh, since we both happen to share our favorite holiday -- the 4th! There's not much I don't love about the 4th, one: it's in the summer, which is my favorite, two: you get the day off of work, which is also my favorite, and I love, love LOVE a good fireworks show! Then there's that thing about it being the greatest country in the world's birthday and whatnot...

This year we decided to really bring in the holiday with a BANG and spent the wee hours of the morning at the emergency room! I know, we really know how to party! Poor Josh and his 65 year old insides, I hope that he will be able to get better soon and quit it with the whole internal bleeding bit...

That being said, as we got home from the hospital at about 5:30 a.m. and then had a brunch at his parent's home, we really slept away most of our 4th of July holiday. And I'm not complaining one bit! The rest of the weekend we were able to spend a lot of time with Josh's family, with his amazing sister Katie being in town, our niece Hadley being blessed, and Josh's mom's birthday. Sunday brought yet another visit to the E.R. and really, at this point in our lives, I'm getting pretty used to it. Here are some pictures from our [mostly] fun and always

adventurous weekend!

The Lund kidlets. I am aware that I look like I've gained 240 pounds in this picture, and I'll blame it on the camera lens, yet I am so self-assured that I posted it anyway. I deserve a medal.

Being so cute must be hard work. Oh how I love her!

2008-07-01T08:18:00.003-06:00

OUR NEW PLACE!!!

We did it! We are now looking forward to being house-poor! I think this might make us semi-grown-ups. Yeah, that's scary.

I know, I know, our apartment was just so great, how could we ever leave these things:

1. Moldy, rotting bathroom ceiling. It's all the rage these days, I know you wish you had one.

2. 400 pound 4 year old living upstairs. At least that's how large he sounds when he jumps off furniture and runs around at 1 in the morning.

3. Kids target-practicing their golf swing with our bedroom window.

4. Neighbor that parks WAY too close to Josh's car every day.

5. 2 minutes of hot water.

Call us crazy, but we're thinking this owning thing might be an improvement!
And because I knew you were all wondering, YES we will be having plenty of parties. But you only get invited if you come help us paint our giant, 2 story wall! (Josh's neck is ALMOST tall enough to reach, but just not quite!)

2008-06-11T15:16:00.007-06:00

I've been tagged by a few people to do this and today I just feel like talking about Josh! Also, I am sad for him today, as while he is in charge of security at SLCC, he just so happened to get robbed there. Ironic? Maybe. Will he track down the guy and kill him over $52? Probably.

Anyway...

1. Who is your man? Joshua B

2. How long have you been married? After the first year is over, I think all the sudden it just feels like 80 years or so... At least that's what I think.

3. How long dated? A year

4. How old is your man? Outside, 26. Inside, probably 65.

5. Who eats more? How else would Josh keep his girlish figure if he actually ate? I eat for both of us, as well as our neighbors, our unborn children....

6. Who said "I love you" first? Actually, we've never said it to each other. Okay lie. He said it first, and he was gushing about it, too. How embarassing for him.

7. Who is taller? Josh is taller than me in his neck alone.

8. Who sings better? It's tough to tell when Josh gets his opera on during "happy birthday".

9. Who is smarter? Definitely Josh. He is a walking encyclopedia. Seriously, he knows everything. Go ahead, ask him.

10. Who's temper is worse? Mine, Josh doesn't have a temper. Unfortunately, when my temper rages, it does no good since he is bigger and can take me down anyway.

11. Who does the laundry? It's a collective effort, usually ending up in Josh finishing, or at least that's what I'll say so I can blame him on the missing socks.

12. Who does the dishes? Whoever doesn't cook. But since we both don't cook, I let it rest on Josh's shoulders. After all, I'm too busy playing mario kart to do the dishes, and he knows that.

13. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Josh staked his territory the first night we were married and I'm pretty upset about it. So I try to sneak over there before he comes to bed, but then he just pushes me off. Darnit.

14. Who pays the bills? I usually write the checks, although Josh is the one who incurs them! Dang hospital bills!

15. Who has bigger feet? Josh's toes are bigger than my entire feet, probably. Which he says is genetic -- all those islanders have to have long toes for walking on the beach.

16. Who has longer hair? Me!

17. Who is better with the computer? Josh types with three fingers. That's all.

18. Who mows the lawn? Boo for not having a lawn! For sure we'd fight over it!

19. Who cooks dinner? Malt O' Meal. That's right, we're having chocolate marshmallow mateys for dinner tonight!

20. Who drives when you are together? Josh drives at night, I get too paranoid, even though he hates driving my car, since it feels like a hover craft. And also, he won't let me drive his car. Ever.

21. Who pays when you go out? We usually tell the waiter that the table next to us agreed to pick up our check and then we RUN out of there! Nah, I pay, my debit card is prettier and I like to show it off!

22. Who is most stubborn? Our donkey.

23. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Josh has never been wrong once in our marriage, true story. I've really got to work on my arguments.

24. Whose parents do you see the most? It's a toss-up, but probably his, as they live just right here.

25. Who kissed who first? After Josh gave some corny line about my eyes being so beautiful, he kissed me. I can't believe I let his line work! Man, I was a sucker...

26. Who asked who out? I tricked him in to asking me out. He felt bad for me, I was drugged!

27. Who proposed? My dad probably convinced Josh to propose to me. They love him more than me.

28. Who is more sensitive? Josh only cried when his dog Fozzie died. That was it, ever. I cried when I dropped the remote and was too tired to pick it up.

29. Who has more friends? Even for having social anxiety, Josh still manages to be loved by everyone. No fair.

30. Who has more siblings? ME!!! And I love them!

2008-06-04T08:33:00.007-06:00

Happy Birthday To....

Apparently I'm a nerd and I can't stop theming my posts! This one is my birthday post! I first wanted to thank all my wonderful friends and family who wished me a happy birthday on the 22nd! It was a great day, and unlike last year, I was lucky to not spend it in the hospital!!! That's how much Josh loves me! Unfortunately I told Josh what I wanted to do for my birthday was go see Indiana Jones, and man was that stupid. So I guess it's my own fault for getting a stupid birthday wish. My favorite present, though, was that Josh actually let me take a picture of us! Enjoy. This is me at 24, don't look closely, I'm sure I'm getting wrinkles and saggy skin.

Next, we were ever so lucky to get invited by Seth and Brittney to go down and celebrate Brittney's big 2-3 on Monday (June 2nd)! We had a great time and really enjoyed the "Roberts" version of Happy Birthday. We fit right in, I think!

And it's true, I saved the best for last. I'm going to say this in big words hoping it can somehow convey my excitement in this statement:

I'm an AUNT!!!!

That font just wasn't big enough... "Largest?" Bah, I don't believe it.

I've been waiting probably 80 years for this moment to happen, and I didn't imagine it would be so wonderful! Jayson (Josh's brother) and Heather gave birth to a healthy, BEAUTIFUL baby girl, Hadley, on Monday (again the 2nd, she must've known it was a good day for birthdays!) and I can't even express how much I love her already! I know that is so corny! I am sure I'm the favorite aunt, after all, she did make a squeaky noise when I held her! Monday was just full of little miracles. One I'm glad I witnessed: Josh actually likes Hadley AND he wanted to hold her AND he didn't drop her! He deserves a medal, or maybe a trophy. Here is a picture of our beautiful niece -- I'll upload a few more maybe tomorrow. I can't wait to go visit her again!

2008-05-15T10:14:00.003-06:00

DISCLAIMER:

Those not listed in the below post are still LOVED and FAVORITE. I just don't have any pictures with you from lately, which means we need to do something together SOON. (Hint, my birthday is next week and I love having visitors! I also bake cookies for people who come to visit!)

2008-05-15T09:37:00.011-06:00

MY FAVORITES!

I have to admit, I get a little self-conscious trying to start a blog post, feeling a little like I'm back in 10th grade english and I can't figure out that perfect start to my essay! So pardon my inability to string a bunch of thoughts all together into one coherent "post"...

Anyway, I've been wanting to make a special post ever since it became my FAVORITE month of the year! Since it is my favorite month, I wanted to share with everyone some of my favorite people, who have brough sunshine into my life this last month!

First on the list, in honor of my bro-in-law Jake graduating, I have to say he's one of my favorite people! I'm a big fan of his french toast! Here Jake is in all his splendor, in his coolest "shants" ever and his flame apron. What a stud!

My family, of course, is always a FAVORITE! I've been able to travel up North quite often in the last little while, and I've been so grateful for the love and support they've been giving me! They even dare to be seen in public with me when I'm told I have a fat neck, now that's dedication! It feels great to always have best friends in my wonderful sisters. We've had some crazy and fun times lately! If only Jaylene was close to spend time with us too! We miss her oh so much.

(I'm like Nancy Kerrigan on the rollerblades, seriously!)

I was so blessed in high school to have such good friends, and I'm so lucky that I am able to keep in contact with so many of them still! It's so great to get together and see the many accomplishments in their lives and be blessed with their friendship and laugther still! And sorry Brooke's head is chopped off -- that's what we get for putting the camera on the playground?

Also my favorite, Erica's Farah Faucet hair! She is setting off fire alarms all over, baby, she's so HOT!

You would also think that Josh would be on my list... Well, he's not. And that's only because he is really only my imaginary husband and I can't EVER get any pictures of him, nor does he dare be seen in public with me! I guess, he can still be a favorite...

And lastly, my very favorite, is Evelyn, a.k.a. Deb. Here she is, slowly raising her fist to her chin, thinking of floating with seahorses.

2008-05-07T19:56:00.006-06:00

The future Mr. and Mrs. Atkinson!!!

I have had my next post planned out since I got to see some of my best friends in the world this monday (I guess that makes me obsessed when I plan out days in advance what I'm going to post about) BUT I was just uploading some pictures from my camera when I came across these beauties and couldn't help myself and jumped ahead to post this. Lexi and Hayden have won my heart forever. Brooke and Sara, you girls are experts in the cute kid department!

Maybe in 20 years or so Hayden will have a Cousin Lund, eh?

2008-04-14T20:37:00.002-06:00

THEY GROW UP SO FAST!!!

And why did she steal all the good looks?

I still remember when little "Carita" was a teensy toddler, dressing up like a princess, sippy cup in tow... And now she's all model-esque and grown up!!! Carrie, you make me proud.

2008-03-24T14:37:00.001-06:00

Happy Spring!!!

I am probably the happiest girl alive now that it is officially SPRING! And I hadn't realized it had been a month already since I last posted. Here's a quick summary (since I know all two of my blog stalkers are really curious) of what's gone on in the last month: (more pictures to come)

* I survived a week without Josh! He went away for business (it makes him sound so important and professional) and I actually started to get used to sleeping by myself again -- don't tell him that, he'll get excited and think he's actually allowed to sleep on the couch!

* I took pictures of my first wedding! (maybe only wedding?) Candice and Zach (I did their engagements a while ago) got married the beginning of March and I was SO nervous, especially since the weather was quite grim that day, but things went okay and I hope they like the finished product. Here are a few previews:

* My little sisters are growing up! Carrie went to her junior prom and looked GORGEOUS -- I swear it was last year that I was in high school and she was like 9 or something. And Andie turned 10 on the 16th of March! We had a fun birthday party with all of her friends - she is a cutie patootie.

* I cooked a real meal for my in-laws and they didn't die! On Saturday night I came home and Josh informed me that he had invited his parents over for Easter dinner and that I would be cooking a pot roast -- I guess he figured it was easy and I couldn't mess up. I think I got so nervous it made me sick! I woke up violently ill yesterday morning but I still didn't get out of cooking. The fire alarms only went off once, and surprisingly the meal was good! It's true, I've let it all go to my head. Hopefully I only have a few ulcers from the stress.

* Josh and I have started a new game -- we like to make bets! Sadly, Josh is too smart and figured out that when I bet him outrageous sums of money (like $100 to eat a piece of pineapple) he wasn't really winning anything since I'd just tell him that it was in the bank and he could use it to pay our bills later, so now it's become fun to bet for other things. When I win my beach cruiser bike in May (and I KNOW I'll win) I'll let you know what I did to get it.

Now that it's springtime and I am officially done hibernating, I have a million and ten things I am sure I'll accomplish in the next little while. On the top of that list: Go Golfing! I know this sounds weird, seeing as I don't really even golf. Josh gave me a set of clubs for my wedding present and has taken me to the driving range a few times over the past two years, but I think he gets embarassed when I keep missing the ball. Honestly, who does that. But my goal this spring is to get good enough that I could play at least 9 holes with him!

2008-02-21T09:05:00.001-07:00

What a Week!!

I wanted to make a special post about the past week in my life -- which would be titled something like that, "life". To celebrate new life, our good friends Kam and Rosie had their baby (although 7 weeks early) and Alondra is doing well! She is so tiny (just over 4 pounds) but oh so beautiful! I am absolutely in love with her.

And to cherish the life of one who has left us -- Josh's uncle Cory's wife, Aunt Layna, passed away last Friday, at the young age of 37.

She will be missed and we are keeping her two boys, Dylan and Jordan, in our prayers.

Our Valentines Day was pretty mellow (and I probably could dedicate an entire post on my feelings towards the dreaded commercial holiday) but Josh, even though I begged with him to not do anything, as usual, spoiled me and it was good to spend quality time with him. He also surprised me with calla lillies, which were absolutely beautiful. (I could also dedicate an entire post on my loathe for roses and my happiness that he remembers things like that!)

Besides these events, our lives (Josh and I) remain pretty usual and boring. I've been busy training two new paralegals at my office who I totally adore and am excited to work with people I can share common beliefs and values with for once! Josh is still on the hunt for a job (slowly but surely?) and SURPRISE, he actually cut all of his curly hair off, hoping it will help him in the search... I have never seen Josh with a short haircut since I've known him, so it is going to take some getting used to. Josh hates it though, so I doubt it will stay short for long. I'll try to get pictures while it lasts for those who want to see how handsome my hubby is! (Josh tends to shy away from the camera so it might be while he's sleeping or something...)

Also, we miss our friends! Please come play with us! Our wii is getting limited use right now and we still haven't had anyone besides our friend Jake enjoy a home cooked family meal on our nice new table! So come on by!

2008-02-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Ev, I am now cooler than ever for actually being tagged. And thanks to being so busy at work that i have actually given up and am now officially slacking on everything, I have time to do this!

A- Attached or single: Attached. Even though Josh wishes I wasn't so much.
B- Best Friend: A nice nap. And tomorrow, maybe Josh.
C-Cake or Pie: Both, but not mixed together.
D-Day of Choice: Nap Day. When Josh is president he'll make it official, after he makes my birthday a federal holiday.
E- Essential Item: My wedding ring. It also is my backup weapon if I don't have a can of mace around. I'll poke your eye out.
F- Favorite Color: Green (Ev you are such a copier!)
G- Gummi Bears or Worms: Worms!
H- Hometown: Elwood, Utah.
I- Indulgence(s): Dark chocolate truffles with raspberry filling. I know, it sounds so romantic and it is.
J- January or July: July! January will be taken off the calendar when Josh is president, too.
K-Kids: Josh is allergic, sadly.
L-Life is incomplete without: Naps. I'm kind of stuck on that today, since that's all I want to do.
M- Marriage Date: May 18, 1900. At least that's how long it feels like I've been married, but it only was in 2006.
N- Number of Siblings: 6 sisters and one Ev. Which is better than a sister. And 5 in-laws.
O- Oranges or Apples: I have to cut up my apples into little pieces, but then I love them.
P- Phobias or Fears: I am extremely afraid of falling to my death.
Q- Quote(s): I can't quote it, but it would involve Jennica being absolutely sure that there are 25 hours in a day.
T- Tag Three: I'll just tag myself three times.
U- Unknown Fact About Me: I have an obsession with checklists. I LOVE making them just to check stuff off. It makes me feel like I actually accomplish things every once in a while. So far on my checklist for today: Waste time at work: check.
V- Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animal: Mmmm meat.
W- Worst Habit: I am a whiner. It is awful. As Josh would say: "waah".
X- X-Rays or Ultrasounds: Cat scan. My tumors probably wouldn't show up on an x-ray.
Y- Your Favorite Food: chicken and pasta with a lemon butter herb sauce.
Z- Since I haven't had my nap and there is no Z, I have no creative juices to make one up. But whatever it was, I choose zebra.

2008-01-28T20:44:00.001-07:00

MY NEW TOY!!!

I was asked to take some engagement pictures of my sister's brother-in-law Zach and his fiance, Candice. I decided that since I have already passed my prime and am getting uglier by the minute, what better place to be than BEHIND the camera all the time? Josh caved in to my whining and let me indulge on a new CAMERA so I could pretend that I'm pro. I actually was pleased with the way the photos turned out, despite weird lighting and me being so nervous! It probably helped that Zach and Candice are quite the attractive couple. Here are a few of my favorites:

I also snapped this one of the beautiful temple on my way home

Hooray for cameras!

2007-12-19T11:49:00.000-07:00

I tagged myself?

So I've been secretly hoping for the day that I became cool enough to get on someone's tag list... Apparently I'm still not that cool. How sad! I keep seeing all of these fun posts on the whole 7 interesting facts about me or whatever, and I thought, wow, I hope someone tags me because that looks like it could be fun/challenging/fill up a lot of empty time at work to do! So I decided to be totally like the girl that invites herself to people's parties and I tagged myself? Anyway, here are 7 interesting (okay maybe not interesting but I put a lot of work into this!) things you may or may not know about me!
-

1. I am part hypochondriac. Serious. Josh makes fun of me for it, but I really do think I have a lot of rare and unusual (and some deadly) diseases. When I get headaches I get worried that I might have a brain tumor and they won't find it until too late, or if I am feeling sick to my stomach I worry that it might be a parasite or a tapeworm. Sometimes I really feel like my blood actually hurts, and then I think I probably have some rare blood disease and will start bleeding out of my ears or something. I know, I'm retarded! I also don't go to the doctor, though, unless I myself can diagnose what I think I have (or if I'm actually dying, maybe). If I just haven't been feeling good for a few days and there's no logical explanation in my mind as to why, I figure the doctors won't be able to figure it out either, so why waste my $10 copay?
-

2. I have this thing for vampires. Okay wow, I might stop now, I'm starting to sound like a creep! And no, it's not because of the Twilight books, either, and no, I am not secretly crushing on Edward. It all started when I saw Underworld on TV and I just decided that vampires (as long as they are nice vampires and only drink synthetic blood?) are pretty cool. I always want to buy a pair of fangs for Halloween, but I never have.

3. I have REALLY vivid dreams, pretty much every night. I can always remember my dreams, at least for a few hours. Maybe I'm having visions, I haven't decided yet. I usually wake up and tell Josh, 'I dreamed about this last night, and such and such happened', and he just stares at me wondering where my brain comes up with that crap. It might have something to do with my brain tumor? The only thing that bugs me is sometimes my exes or old enemies appear in my dreams and ruin my good night's sleep.

4. I've got this weird memory thing, maybe part photogenic or something. I rarely forget where I put something, and Josh loves it, since he loses his stuff all the time. He can ask me, "hey have you seen my sweet glasses?" and I can say "yeah I saw you take them off and put them in this really random place while I was distracted doing something different". It also comes in handy working with my scatterbrained boss. His client files will always be completely messy, but if he needs something he just asks me if I've seen it and if I have, I know exactly where it is. This also could have to do with my brain tumor? (yes I make fun of myself for my weird hypochondria)

5. I can't handle bad food smells. I'm sure this is pretty common with a lot of people, so I don't attribute this to a brain tumor or anything. If someone even ASKS me to smell the milk to see if it's gone bad, I will start gagging just thinking about it. We don't eat leftovers at my house for this reason -- If I open the fridge door and something doesn't smell right I won't be able to eat all night.

6. I go through phases of fetishes -- it's true, I get sick of things pretty quickly. I'll never be one of those people that has an absolute favorite band since I was 5, a favorite movie, or a favorite restaurant, even. A while ago I ate a sandwich at this little restaurant downstairs, the Atlantic Cafe, and it was delicious. I craved it for weeks. And then suddenly, I moved on to craving soup from Skool Lunch down the street. A few years ago, for a few months all I spent my money on was Nike shoes on e-bay (which are sweet and I actually still love them) Just when I think I've decorated our bathroom the way I like it, I decide I'm sick of the towel colors and I want something different. Luckily we are poor so I don't get to indulge on my fetishes, especially as often as they come and go!

7. I am an extremely quick typer. I used to be really bored when I was a receptionist and would take typing tests just to see how quick I could go. Now, my boss will e-mail me a letter that is all ready to be sent out, all I have to do is copy and paste it onto our letterhead, but I still will print it out and type it, just because I don't want to lose practice. Every once in a while I get a side job typing pleadings for someone in prison or something, and I often feel bad billing for the work, as I enjoy myself so much while I am doing it! I dream of becoming a court reporter one day, as a truly perfect day at work would just consist of me typing to my heart's content.

---

YAY for tagging myself! I want to tag Evorama, Krissy and Brittneth (that's Brittney and Seth's celebrity name!)

2007-11-29T10:38:00.001-07:00

UPDATE

I know i haven't posted anything in a while, and I can't find my camera, so I can't even make this post exciting with good looking pictures of Josh and I. But I thought I'd just post an update here, mainly for Kristen, because I know how curious she is about my oh so exciting life! :)
This November has really been pretty uneventful. I got a second night job because I'm crazy, but I'm also embarassed about it and I don't like people to know where I work. I will say, though, that I work with a bunch of younglings and I am like the old maid they come to for advice and knowledge. (Hey, at least they think I'm wise!) The whole reason I decided to get a second job was because we hadn't sold our third car yet, and then BAM a week after I started working, it sold! So now we are happy! I still haven't gotten rid of the job yet, I'm too afraid to quit...
Thanksgiving was great! We had dinner at the Lunds on Wednesday night, Josh's mom is an excellent cook! I made a banana cream cheesecake that I was really nervous to bring, since Mary knows I'm not really a cook and has to feed Josh at least on a weekly basis to make sure he's actually eating something that tastes good, but I thought my pie was really tasty! Josh liked it too! We didn't have Thanksgiving at my parents, so we got to sit around all day and do absolutely nothing!
Josh and I are getting really excited for him to be done with school NEXT WEEK! Well, I probably am more excited than he is, because I am just imagining the money we'll save on gas -- the drive up to the U gets expensive 4 times a week! I also am excited because I got him a really cool graduation/Christmas present on e-bay and I can't wait for him to get it! Oh how I love online shopping. Which reminds me. Since I didn't post a Thanksgiving post, I thought I'd share with you a few things I'm grateful for:

1. Josh -- duh! Well, maybe I'm just putting him down because I didn't everyone would think I was a horrible wife and didn't appreciate my husband. Nah, really, I love him so much and am grateful for him every day. After all, who else would carry me to bed every night after I fall asleep on the couch -- I swear I'm narcoleptic! He also makes some delicious pancakes and looks pretty darn good in his Sunday clothes.

2. My wonderful family!!! I've been so blessed with six great sisters, and so far 3 great brother in laws. Who knew I could get along with that many people!! (Okay so I really get along with everyone, right?) I got to take my dad out to lunch yesterday, he came down with his Madrigal choir, who sang at Temple Square, and it was just such a wonderful experience to get to spend the day with him. I am lucky to share such a close relationship with my dad. Unfortunately I also share his round danish face. How sad.

3. Did I mention online shopping ????? With my crappy night job, I pretend to not have time to actually go out and go Christmas shopping, but maybe it's more of the fact that I like to procrastinate at my real job and hunt for bargains online all day. Who knows.

4. Skool Lunch! Today is Turkey Enchilada soup day, and my mouth has been watering since I realized that last night! I don't know how else I would get through the cold months without delicious soup on Thursdays. Which reminds me that I am grateful for our furnace that works most of the time (usually we have to pick between furnace or warm shower... it's a tough decision).

5. My church calling -- I know it might sound stupid, but I'm the relief society pianist and I absolutely love it. Besides the fact that I have my very own old lady fan club (they tell me I look sexy every week, I haven't decided if that is disturbing or not yet...) I find myself actually taking the time now to sit down and play my piano -- I have to make sure I play those hymns perfectly so my fan club can tell me I'm sexy AND talented! It's been a small blessing -- while I practice the hymns, I think it helps me bring the spirit back into my heart after working for the devil all day! (I have come to that realization that as I sit at my desk and destroy families all day (divorce) I really am working for the devil, as in these last days it's apparent how he is attacking the family!) I still love my real job though, (not my fake night job), and I am also grateful that I have a great boss who thinks I'm great, too. (No, he won't be reading this, I really meant that!)

2007-11-02T09:07:00.001-06:00

This October has been so great! After Josh and I got back from vacation, we have been so busy that I haven't posted anything! Jaylene came out to visit from the Phillippines and gave us great news that her and Steve are moving back to the states! They will be in Columbus Ohio in January for Steve to go to graduate school at OSU! Next, the four of us older sisters got to be together as Erica went through the temple for the first time

and then a week later her and Jake tied the knot! Their temple sealing was beautiful, and we know they will be happy forever! I am glad to have ANOTHER brother in law named Jake! Sadly my camera was dead, so I didn't get any pictures from the temple, only from the reception that night.

I am just waiting for Erica to get back from her honeymoon to Mexico so I can get the ones I took on her camera! It has been such a great month for family time, and I have really been able to count my blessings and be grateful for the wonderful family that I have been blessed with!
Earlier this week I skipped out on work (even though I was sick anyway) and went to frightmares with most of my sisters! We had a lot of fun acting stupid and just spending quality time together.
Then Halloween came! This Halloween was extra special because Josh and I found out that we get to be aunts and uncles! His brother Jayson's girlfriend Heather is expecting a baby in June and I am very excited, this will be a first to me! After we had our annual clam chowder dinner at the Lund house, we went to Steve and Kristi's Halloween bash! I was excited to go, since Josh and I didn't even dress up last year -- we were boring married people! This year Josh was a cowboy and I was a boxer -- although everyone told me I just looked like a battered wife! Sad!

I thought I would put the link to my facebook album so if you want, you can enjoy all of my pictures from this month!

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=67486&l=a171c&id=730245429

2007-10-18T16:22:00.000-06:00

NEWPORT, CALIFORNIA

Josh and I FINALLY got away on a vacation! For his fall break we decided to take off to California with our friends Jake and Michelle.

We had a fantastic time, we spent most of our time at the beach, soaking in the rays. I was once again reminded of my husband's luck in having polynesian genes and how the sun loves him... and how the sun hates me and my fair skin. What's the deal? Josh has never even heard of a sunburn!

After hanging around in Newport for a few days, we decided to go Disneyland. I have decided that Josh is agoraphobic (he doesn't do too well with crowds!) so he didn't have a lot of fun at Disneyland. I, on the other hand, was so excited for my favorite ride, the Buzz Lightyear shooty thing. It was really busy the day we went, so we didn't get to do much, but I at least had a really good time.

I thought the whole trip was perfect and we have decided that we're going to go to the beach at least once a year from now on! Maybe next time you can join us on our new tradition.

2007-10-15T13:26:00.001-06:00

Oh Krissy, I've never been tagged before to do anything, so this is very exciting! In all of my 23 years, I am not sure that much has changed, (josh says I still act 5) but we'll see.

1. When I was younger my mom made a lot of our clothes, so they weren't anything fancy. But I do remember that in 3rd grade I had some sweet stirrup pants - you'd wear like three pair of socks scrunched over the top. It was awesome. I also wore a lot of Ev's clothes, she always had cuter stuff than me!

2. I own too many things from Express! I find myself realizing that my work pants are actually more comfortable than jeans, so I don't have very many jeans anymore! I have a weakness for shirts that I can wear to work, and I am lucky that Josh has allowed me a budget of buying one per month. It is excellent.

3. Back in the day I LOVED power rangers! Jen Robertson and I would watch it together pretty much every day.

4. Now... gosh I feel like all we do is watch TV! I have to say my favorite is probably Heroes. I even dream about it, maybe it's because I wish I was part super hero.

5. When I was younger, my favorite music was anything on Q99 - best radio station ever! I remember when Jaylene and I cried when all of hte sudden one morning it was gone! I developed my love for Smashing Pumpkins at an early age, and alwasy had fun listening to Ev's MC Hammer tape!

6. Now I still love my Smashing Pumpkins best of CD, it will probably be my favorite ever! I guess it depends on the day and my mood what kind of music I listen to. Butch Walker is always a favorite, though.

7. When I was younger, my favorite food was strawberries. My daddy even planted my own strawberry patch out back just for me! (Okay, so I shared...)

8. NOW I still love fruit, but especially raspberries! I also crave chicken paninis from the Atlantic Cafe by my office, they are delicious!

9. When I was little, I was afraid of being kidnapped, my parents dying, spiders and falling off a cliff.

10. Now I am afraid of our upstairs neighbors, (I swear they've killed before... but that's another story) getting wrinkles, still spiders.

EV you should do this, I want to hear what you have to say!

2007-09-15T14:04:00.001-06:00

SUMMER'S OVER...

So I've decided I'm a little bit sad today that Summer is pretty much all over! Summer is Josh's and my favorite time of year, and somehow every year it seems to go by even quicker! We always say we are going to do a million things each summer, but then when it comes, we are always way too busy. It also doesn't help that Josh is an accident waiting to happen, so somehow every summer we spend time in the hospital together... bonding moments for sure...

My favorite parts of summer this year were:

1. Sara and Brady's new addition, Hayden Atkinson. He already loves me (well, okay, who wouldn't...) He's probably about as close to my own kid I'll ever get and I'm going to spoil him rotten!!! (Really I'm sure we'll have kids one day... in a long, long time...)

2. Our wakeboarding trip - we only got to go once this year, but Josh did great, and I got to show off a nice faceplant on video. I know, I know, I've got mad skills. Feel free to make fun. But only after you commend me for (sort of) getting some air!

3. Not having to wear shoes! Since Josh's polynesian genes somehow make him wear flip flops 10 out of 12 months a year, I am always happy when summer comes and I get to quit wearing socks (and shoes when I'm home, for that matter). I remember when I was little I used to run around without shoes ALL THE TIME, I could've walked on hot coals, nails, bees, you name it. I had sacagawea feet. Don't worry, I don't have a picture of my feet. Even though my toenails are darn cute.

4. Baseball games - One of our first dates was a Bees game (that is quite the story in itself) so I like to think that we go alot to reminisce about how we fell in love or something... but somehow baseball games are so much fun - sitting out on the grass, only paying attention to the game when you want to, the firework shows after the game... oh, it's all worth it.

5. All of the Weddings! I've had so many of my friends get married this summer, and it's been so much fun! It's always a good excuse for us girls to get togher and act like we're still in high school. I love all of my guys' wives, they are fantastic! Hooray for more friends! This picture is from Steve and Kristi's wedding, sadly the only one I had my camera attached to me. Sorry, Seth and Brett, I guess you're just not as cool!

2007-09-08T08:51:00.000-06:00

URKASAUR AND THE JACKAL

We are all so excited that little sister Erica is getting married! Jake is a great guy, even though now we have to be like "Erica's Jake" and "Evelyn's Jake" -- it gets confusing! Ev and I got to take their pictures for their announcement last week, it was really fun! Boy those two are photogenic!

2007-08-17T10:54:00.000-06:00

Well, here we are, the Lunds... new at this whole blogspot thing. We've been married since May of 2006 (that's 15 months now) and we still like each other!
We are living in Midvale, and are always lonely for company, so come see us! Josh just found out he passed his Social Epidemiology class (only he would've gotten a better grade if he would just let me do his homework for him!!!) so that means he will graduate in December! Life is great and fun, and we both can't wait to see what adventures wait ahead for us!