Spring Break

Another reason why I am such a fan of my profession. I get Spring Break. Granted, this particular year I don't get paid for it - I still have the time off which I love. This week is turning out to be full of "things-to-do" lists.

Things-to-Do #1: Finish Bathroom!
Okay, so its not exactly finished, but it is totally mostly done. And it is beautiful! A big shout out to my BIL who is an interior design genius and help me commit to a color. And now, presenting, my totally new and totally relaxing grey bathroom. Can you believe that we tore out this whole bathroom, and reinstalled everything! B-E-A-utiful. Comments of congratulations welcome.

The Before. Especially loved the pink accent tiles.

The during - well, the best I could find.
The New-and Improved.
I totally love the 2 mirror look. So sleek.


To-Do-List #2: Celebrate Mom's birthday.

Mom had her birthday yesterday and I sort of took the easy road and took her out to dinner rather then make it for her at home like last year. But I did get her a cute new shirt and jewelry combo and a recipe book for soups which I happen to love. Delightful

To-Do-List #3: Host Mikey

My favorite BIL is visiting for the week between his London study abroad and return to Provo. He is just such a delight. And I like having him around. We mostly just sit and watch Tyra Banks talk show and other lame daytime TV but it is fabulous.

To-Do-List #4: Finish Scrapbook(s).

So I have 2 Scrapbooking projects I am trying to finish. And I love it. Mostly because I get to have a creative outlet that produces a great result. And it is good for me. And I especially like to hear the satisfaction on the faces of those whose books they are. Perfect.

To-Do-List #5: Spring Cleaning Start

As my first year as a homeowner rounds out, I feel it is important to get in the spring cleaning chores while I am out of school this week. This includes a deep clean of several things that get overlooked during the year. The blinds, the oven, the cupboards; you get the jist. So heres to my music being a little too loud, and the lemon-y smell of goodness everywhere.

Overall - Spring break is turning out to be quite successful. Happy spring to me.

Just to catch up

A blog I follow updates ALL THE TIME. At least twice a week. And I love that. I use to be a frequent blog updater, but now I can't blog at work, which is a huge inhibitor in my getting stuff down. So - just to catch up.

--Our fence is finally in the building stages. Our neighbors set up the contractor; which was nice of them, and now we are seeing some progress. Of course the mammoth size snake that was living under the old fence was an unexpected surprise. I'd be okay if we don't see another one of those again.

--I am going through a sugar cookie phase. Weird right? I am CRAVING sugar cookies all the time. Now, a few months back when I was in this craze, I actually made the cookies and consumed them all too quickly. I suppose I am healing as I don't actually make them anymore. But man they are delicious.

--We are big reality TV fans. We've been following the usual popular shows, missing others I'll admit. Although we haven't been into American Idol or Survivor, we've got ANTM, Amazing Race, Top Chef, Deadliest Catch, Biggest Looser, and a myriad of Food Network challenges. We also are fairly large fans of Modern Family and Parks and Recreation. Most our evenings are fairly chill and include some kind of TV relaxing. It's a charmed life.

--I don't know how to feel about those blogs who clarify those pictures they take with their "point and shoot" or "iPhone". Because I am pretty sure all my pictures look like those which makes me feel like my photo skills are inadequate and are not going to document my kids life as beautifully as it should. I'm just saying - I don't care if you took your pictures with a Kodak disposable, had them printed, and scanned them with your hand-me-down scanner to get them on your blog, they are nice so be okay with it.

--I am loving my job again. This really is my perfect job. I love Love LOVE it. Too bad the school system in America is less then favorable and the value of the teachers work is, again, less then favorable. But I get to hang out with a lot of great students. Many of whom will go on to forget me; but I don't know how to explain it. It is just magic for me.

--I sold my college car. My RAV4 that I just loved. The cute little perfect fit for me. I felt like I was cheating on my family getting rid of her like that. And the knife in the heart was when the buyer changed my radio station to his Latin station and had it booming while we finished the transaction. (sad face). But it really was for the better. 3 cars with only 2 drivers really was a bit excessive.

--I've started Scrapbooking Mark's life. Yes! A big project I know. But I am in need of some inspiration for another book I am working on so I started. And now I can't stop. I just love the idea of our futures being able to see pictures of us when we were young. I am addicted to scrapbooking my life. I even sometimes have the pages done before the pictures are captured. So fun.

I guess that is it. Not really exciting eh? Now you know why I don't blog much.

2 Years Down....Eternity To Go.

On this, the 2nd anniversary of the happiest moment of my life, I felt appropriate to give a tribute to my amazing wife. She is the kindest, funniest, and best friend anyone could ever ask for. Here are some good descriptive words for her.

Selfless - We had some good memories this second year. A move to Northern California that would cause for her to leave behind a job she loved dearly, but did so without any complaint. She knew she may not ever teach again, but she also knew it was the right decision.

Creative - We bought our first house this year and have had to be more than open-minded to what we have needed to do in order to make it feel like home. Kaylinn has put her touch of creative genius into the upgrading of our house and has made it feel just as we had hoped.

Dream Driven - I love how she has dreamed of certain things forever and they always come true. A couple of weeks ago, we had determined that it was time to finally plant her lemon tree that she has always. On top of that we planted an orange and grapefruit tree. We took a train to Sacramento last weekend to celebrate our anniversary, something that she has always wanted to do. I just can't wait for what will be next. These little dreams have turned from her dreams to ours.

Loyal - I am talking about her friends here. She has reconnected with friends from the past that have presented to be beneficial for both ends. Last night we planned outings with some of them for the summer time. No matter what, she is always there for a listening ear and a word of comfort to those who are need. I love that about her.

Last of all -AMAZING- that is what she is. Every aspect of her character is determined to improve on what it currently is to what it could be. I always have respected that about her. Never content with where she is because she knows where she could be. I hope that in our eternities I can keep up with that!

Kay, I love you. Thank you so much for an outstanding first two years. It just makes me more excited for what there is in store for us.

Self...Great Day

Woke up. Sun shining perfectly. Worked out minimally, but still counts. Cleaned house to smell of lemons. Had music playing nice and loud which resulted in the sweep n' step. Very therapeutic. Conference talks. Stellar. Followed by grocery shopping with the hubby which is always a favorite. Sun still shining perfectly. Open the windows & blinds that have been closed for ages, and enjoy the breeze. Delicious lunch. Catch up on distant friends lives and their beautiful blogs. I feel blessed. Some of my favorite people visit followed by Rock Band gaming, girl talk, and Chili's. Self...great day.