Check out this day

As a part of my birthday festivities (more on that later) we spent the afternoon in the city with some of the most perfect weather I have seen. Granted, it was very cold - but picture perfectly beautiful

Please note: jumping pictures inspired by Brandon & Michelle. Cuz lets be honest, it is always appropriate to jump in your pictures. :)

My reasons for loving this man are beyond words. Now that we're married, everything just feels right; like we're exactly where we were always meant to be. Being married is just like I imagined it would be, only a thousand times better!

I love you honey. Thanks for the birthday surprises.

Way behind

Somewhere between New Years and today I've lost control of my life. My laundry is just now being done after more weeks then I care to mention. I've been living out of the dryer for more days then are acceptable in any country. We've been eating frozen pizza and cereal for dinner for almost a full week now. My house hasn't been picked up, let alone cleaned, and I've been out of milk for several days. I've almost stopped blogging entirely - thus forgetting all the funny things I had planned to jot down and eventually share. I'm mad at the 8th graders and wish science wasn't a subject. I'm mad at the school district and their empty promises. My New Years resolution to eat healthier and loose a few inches has been re-set about 5 times. I'm pretty sure I'm getting sick. And the cold sore on my lip is at it's peak of annoyance.

Other then that, I attend a swimming class in the evenings, coach the YW volleyball team, and got a new pulsating toothbrush which is a step up according to the packaging. I am a juicing manic - pretty much juicing everything possible. Fruit mixes are always winners, stay away from beets for sure! Bleh.

So there you go. That's why I haven't been blogging. I do have a few thoughts - maybe tomorrow I'll get them posted.

A little side business

Okay, so - I've been digitally scrapbooking and publishing my life for the last 5 years now. Something that I really LOVE to do. In fact, I love it so much, I have run into quite the problem - I don't have enough pictures to scrapbook. In fact, I make layout pages before events even happen just because I love it so much. Thus, my new idea.

With some encouragement from my friends and family, I have decided to try my hand at offering a "photo organizing" service where people send me chunks of their photos (either an entire year or just a single event) and I will organize it into a hard cover book and have it published for you. I am just hoping there are oodles of people in the world who love taking pictures of their family, but they end up in files on their computer, never to be seen again. Or maybe they are printed out and just slid into a plain photobook. Maybe my love could be of some use for these kinds of people. Maybe someone out there in cyberspace will see my blog post and think, "now that sounds like something I need".

Here are some sample pages I have created for my own books.

A website is under construction and we are very much in a beginning stage. But I have already worked on a few books for others and am ready to take on the world (if you will). So, an invitation, if there is anyone out there who is interested in putting their pictures into books that can be shared for generations to come, send me an email (or comment) and I will be happy to send you more information regarding this service. We'll see if it goes anywhere.

Dreams in Disney

Actually, they weren't dreams at all...we did in fact make a trip to Disneyland. Surprised? You shouldn't be. After a potential offer to meet some friends there fell through, we decided that a trip was still necessary to maintain our sanity. This time around we decided to invite the McKeans to enjoy a little magic with us. The days were filled with the usual non-eventful paraphernalia. Loads of candy, laughs, off-season lines, Toy Story Mania love, ice cream, churros, and pictures.

How can people not love this place? The off season is certainly the best, not only because the crowds are limited, but also because the Haunted Mansion isn't all Jack Skeleton-ized. My favorite. It was sure fun to spend some time with my old high school friend Sarah and her man. We really had a fabulous trip. Thanks for asking.

And now, a photosampling of our trippy trip:

We made it through the parks fairly quickly; hitting all the rides by the end of the afternoon. Disneyland is still by far my favorite park - I just simply adore it there.

A stop to see the mouse was definitely in order being that our travel buddies hadn't been to the park in over a decade. I was disappointed in Mickey's behavior to Matt. A little standoff-ish, trying to get the attention of Sarah. I was annoyed because all they wanted was a good "family" photo with the mouse, and he was being really, weird.
But he posed well for me so I am happy with that.

California Adventure is under a ton of construction with the new park additions. Cars land is going to be a real hit when it opens next year, a trip we will most definitely be taking. The weather was simply perfect; so much so that I told Mark we were going to retire in Southern California. I am surprised at how much I miss my life there.
Toy Story Mania is still my all time favorite ride. And Matt and Sarah seemed to like it too which was a bonus when I wanted to wait in line 5 times to ride it. I may not get the "Best Today" score like I use to, but I love seeing my number as the "best in Vehicle." Tender.

And I hate this ride. It appears Sarah did too.

We are sorry we missed out on visiting friends this time around (Heidi and Sara) but know I did think of you as we drove past the 91.

Next Disney adventure on the list? Disneyland Marathon. eeek

Ten Lessons

Things I've learned my 3 days of substitute teaching.

1. I hate Middle School.

2. No amount of classroom management techniques can control a class lacking teacher management.

3. I hate 6th graders most.

4. I like that I don't have to go to the meetings.

5. It's super weird hearing the kids talk outside the classroom about "having a sub today"...and that being me.

6. I miss having my own classroom.

7. Over planning, although helpful, is sometimes stressful because I'm not sure what really needs to get done.

8. Agenda's are underused in classrooms.

9. Spelling counts.

10. Bring a book; you'll be bored for most of the period.

Watch Out People...the Morrell's Want to Go Photo Pro!

So...Kaylinn and I both share a common love and interest in photography. There is just so much that you can do with it and being that the rest of my family took the painting and artsy stuff, this is a great way for me to be artisitc. I just wanted to show off some pictures that we took or were taken of us by someone else that we have preofessionalized. With a little more practice I might seriously consider doing this as a side gig....


(Waterfall in Oregon)


(Wedding Before)


(Wedding After)


(Before)


(After)

Ok...so maybe not pro...but we think we can at least make our photos look pro....love it.

A new chapter

Lots of things have been going on in our little world over here. Thought I might take a moment to update you on a few things.

Our bathroom renovation project have been coming along nicely. We're happy to report that we now have a working toilet in the master bathroom, professionally installed by my man. We are taking on the great project of cleaning out the tile to prep it for grouting and sealing. And we are ready to install the vanity that has been sitting in our garage for the last 2 months. Very exciting. We are having the shower doors installed by real professionals which is sort of a luxury in this adventure and we hope we are stunned at their beauty like we were stunned at their price.

Mom is moved into her house; mostly. At least the boxes are in the garage and the beds are set up. My sister, bless her heart, spent the better part of her trip down here organizing closets and kitchens and rooms until she was blue in the face. Dave is here now redoing the electrical to meet the dreams of my mother. Hopefully the roof doesn't come down as her wishes seem a little bigger then they should be. But my brother is a genius so he'll make it work great I'm sure.

I have decided to finally leave the temp position I've been filling these past 6 months to go back to the classroom. I have been hired as a substitute in the district near my home and am hopeful the work is enough to keep me busy. Plus it will get my foot in the door at the district in hopes for a full time position next year. Fingers crossed.

My younger brother was diagnosed with leukemia just 2 days before his last semester of college was to start. He has been in the hospital in Salt Lake for the last week receiving treatments to stabilize his white blood cell count. Things are looking good as they make plans to return to the Bay Area for further treatments. That has been quite the speed bump in our family as we all feel like we've paid our cancer dues with Dad. I guess we were wrong.

I guess that's about it for now. Just busy with life which has been filled with good things. We really are so blessed.

Holiday Season

The holiday season is now over. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly it seems to end after weeks of anticipation. And the thought of returning back to work and 'life' is enough to suck the Christmas joy right out of you! So in a final effort to bask in the warmth of Christmas one last time, here is a little snip about how we spent the days.

We decided to stay home alone again this year. Santa's visit is always an interesting thing, for the 2 of us, who sleep in the same bed, but we managed to pretend we didn't know when he arrived. Even when he smashed a few things around in the dark. Mark was up bright and early like any school boy would.
Even our little tree seemed to brim with gifts. Included in the packages were new PJ's, Sunday shoes, a wheat grinder, tools, jewelry box, earrings, and the fabulous Juicer! Can you believe it? A little fact about me: I have been watching the Jack LeLalanne juicing infomercial for - I don't know - ages, only wishing I could juice someday. And now I have one. I immediately juiced everything in my fridge. And continue to do it. Delightful. The rest of the evening was spent just relaxing, watching movies, and lounging around. A perfectly merry Christmas.

Now it is a new year. Resolutions are flying wild as people prep up to be their best selves for the next 14 days. I have always loved goal setting and "resolutions" on a more frequent basis then I care to admit. Thus, New Years Resolutions are kind of a big deal to me. Granted, I only completed maybe 40% of last years resolves - I am committed to being better this year. Plus, I'm really excited about most of them which makes me think I'll be successful in completing them. I've listed a few here to satisfy your curiosity.

Grow a Fruit Tree-yes. And let the record show I set this goal BEFORE the juicer but now it makes the need that much greater. Who doesn't love fresh lemonade? Seriously.

100% Visiting Teaching-I can't say I'm the worst visiting teacher in the world, but I most definitely have room for improvement. This year I resolve to visit a few sisters in my ward each month without missing. Since I'll be in this area for a long while, I might as well stop playing the "in transit" card.

SF project-I can't disclose what this is here but lets just say I am super excited about it and have already started.

Participate in a physical activity-By this I mean be part of a group of people doing some sort of physical stuff. I really love running and have a lofty goal to run the Walt Disney World Marathon held every January. Anyway-a marathon-that's a physical activity. Or a volleyball league. I guess I have sort of accomplished this goal because I have signed up for a bi-weekly swimming class for the next 3 months. Signing up is one thing, but to complete it, that is another.

Lose Weight-Who doesn't make this goal right? The months before I met Mark I was in the best shape of my life. I was working out 5 days a week. Eating right. Taking care of my nails and hair. You know, the whole "attract a man" stuff. Now I am a little more behind then I wanted to be so a swift kick with a new year is just what I need.

Study the New Testament-So - announcement - I have had a church calling change. I'm now the Gospel Doctrine teacher. (what?) yes. Which is hugely intimidating and kind of makes me want to barf. That being said, I am really excited for the opportunity to actually study the New Testament. We've ordered a bunch of new study materials to assist in the endeavor. Although I'll miss the Young Women terribly, I embrace this change.

Finish the Bathroom-Ok, the house renovations projects are never ending. And probably all equal in size. But - this one is a little closer to being done then I ever thought possible. Check out our newly tiled bathroom! Yes ladies and gentlemen, these DIYers got the job done in just shy of 7 months. Now, it isn't finished yet. It lacks grouting, doors, a vanity, sinks, a toilet, paint, light fixtures, and all the knobs and buttons bathrooms require. But lets just focus on the tile right now. Its nice right!Ok. So there you go. We certainly look forward to 2011. We have great plans for the next 365 days and look forward to continuing to report to our imaginary readers.

Check Mate.

We went to WinCo this morning for donuts. It was 8:30am on New Year's eve so I wasn't entirely surprised there was a tremendous line for checkout. We grab our dozens and headed for the registers, which of course were crammed packed. We end up behind a few peeps who look like they have a few belongings, paying particular attention to slide behind the girl buying only lotion. (really, you came to WinCo at 8:30am for lotion? talk about your essential purchases.) Time ticks by slowly as does our patience. Not soon enough, it is finally the lotion girl's turn. Checker scans the item. Girl pulls out her CHECK BOOK!

Really 18 year old? Really? Who buys stuff with checks anymore? I hate that! And more then that, who uses a check to buy ONE BOTTLE OF LOTION. Are you kidding me. Oh no- it doesn't end there. The cashier needs to get something verified by the super so we wait as her light blinks to signal her need. In the meantime - another lane opens up and we dash over to pay and leave. As we are walking out the door, we see the lotion girl - get this - at the ATM, getting cash, to pay for her lotion. I figure her check didn't work so she went to the atm, used her CARD to get cash. Why didn't you just give your card to the lady? Ok - maybe it was an ATM only card, but oh my word! Seriously!

Kind of a big deal

I know I have said it before; my lack in reading anything is embarrassing. So the fact that I have finished 4 books in the last 3 months is kind of a big deal. I finished reading the Wizard's First Rule - an 820 page fantasy novel suggested by one of my Laurel girls. Pretty gnarly; especially the chapters (plural) where they torture him, but being that I finished it must mean it wasn't that bad. Then I read 3 Hunger Game series in the past 3 weeks. Really interesting story line. Easy to follow and create the images in your head. I liked it.

So there you have it. I guess I can read.

Thanksgiving

I realize our Thanksgiving festivities was somehow overlooked on the blog, which really is a shame because i really like to blog about our lives, But things have been busy and truth be told, I couldn't find the camera for a jaunt of time; hence the delay. (Is that considered a run-on sentence?) So without further ado - Thanksgiving:

We have been especially excited about living close to Mark's brother and family since moving up north. Thus we were thrilled when they invited us to join them for Thanksgiving. We started the morning with some ritualistic physical activity of which I was more of a space filler then the MVP but, fun was certainly had. The air was might chilly - I guess that was to be expected.
We enjoyed the majority of our afternoon with the Orchards at their home where 30+ loved ones gathered and the food of the season. Amber had prepared a turkey craft for all the kids, of which Mark and I participated just because it looked fun. And lets be honest, they were dang cute.

A Thanksgiving post would not be complete without a small list of a few of the generous blessing our Heavenly Father has blessed us with this year. Our dear family and friends have been so wonderful to know and socialize with. Our home that fits our needs perfectly. Food on our table, health in our bones, and money in our bank account keep our temporal needs and wants satisfied. Membership in the Church brings comfort, understanding, direction, peace, and true joy in knowing our eternal purpose. And lastly, a marvelous companion to walk this life with who just gets me.

Twas the Month of December, in two thousand ten.

When bloggers start wondering, "where have they been?"

We did have Thanksgiving, a blog yet to come,

up north with some family and other loved ones.

Came home to more work, not much to share there.

Church callings and "just life" with no time to spare.

The house is all Christmas-sy, smelling of spice.

It's been raining a lot, and that makes it nice.

Our holiday plans are right here at home.

As we send out our love through webmail and the phone.

You're welcome to join us, you're all our dear friends.

And I'll update my blog when I find my camera again.

Merry Christmas!

Just Because

i am disappointed that disney raised the prices of their caramel apples. i feel it was sort of a stab against humanity. as if disney isn't expensive enough already. ten dollars for a big of goodness is overpriced. i enjoy cooking. i havn't been doing a lot of it lately, but i do like to do it and feel a sence of accomplishment when i put a well rounded meal on the table; slightly sad that there are not more people to show off my balanced meal to. flash mobs make me cry. don't ask me why, but when i watch them on youtube, i get a little misty. somthing about humanity coming together. tender. i've used the word humanity twice now. odd. i am on a serious sour patch kid crave. it is so bizzare. it has been extremely cold here recently. i realize it's not as cold as many parts of the world but 28 F this morning is too cold for me. i sometimes think about opening my own preschool. you know, be a teacher at home. ideal. then i think of the kids and realize it is probably not for me. i desperatly miss teaching. last night i dreamed about how much i missed it. i can't imagine this economy ever turning and there ever being a demand for my profession again. we're going christmas decor shopping tonite. with a new house and only apartment size decorations, no better time then now eh?

.the end.

A weekend Trip

Oh Disney how we have missed you. After a very spontaneous phone call from some delightful people, Mark and I were on our way to enjoy a little magic by the company who does magic best. And truly delightful it was. Stephanie and Brandon met us at a glamorous hotel establishment just a stone throw from the park where we enjoyed a very eco-friendly restroom policy. Let it be known that none of us followed the request posted near the toilet to dispose of our paper in the trash. Yes, we only stay in high quality.

Off to the parks we went along with 65,000 other magic seeking guests. Whew! I think working with the crowds was more exhausting then trying to make it the whole day. Our first day felt like the longest day of our lives. All starting with Mark jumping on the bed at an early hour questioning "why are we all still in bed, let's go!".


Needless to say, we were quite content riding the "easy" rides despite having a pregnant lady with us. *side note: not me*. The Mark Twain ferry boat has no line. That is right up our ally. I was lucky enough to hang out with Stephanie most of the day - which made the day turn more into a man-date, girls-day-out so it worked out well.

We made a point to wait in the 45 minute line to visit with Rapunzel; the newest addition to the Disney peeps. The entire line Stephanie indulged me in the true life behind the princesses which of course I was fascinated with. Sadly, the moment we left, the gentleman of the movie whose name I couldn't tell you if my life depended on it showed up and of course I was mad because I HAD to have my picture with "what's his name". Vital. Did we wait in line? No-we headed over to Mr. Toad's Wild Ride instead. Again, short line and Stephanie can ride. Double Bonus.

A few things we laughed at this time around were:

-"I don't like cotton candy. whew - glad that is out there"

-Brandon's amazing food consumption at Ruby's. Sidenote, that place was Delish!

-Indrillgestion

-Toy Story Mania and the new level. (what?)

-Pregnant wife = he-date, she-date

For a bunch of people who love the Disney, I think it was a very successful trip. Sadly, our trips to the parks are numbered as our connections dwindle. We still hold our hopes out that Cam will never leave and we'll get in on his dime next time around. A BIG shout out to our dear friends who thought of us to invite. We sure loved spending time with you. And Disney of course, we loved you too.

Sadly my picture taking efforts were less then par. I have so many pictures from Disneyland; how many times can you get a picture in front of the castle, or with the mouse, or standing in line before it is just all the same photo? Exactly.

Hoping to return in February.

Day ?: Fave photos of my best friends

I realize I've been more then behind in this challenge of posts. So here is another one - way behind. My favorite photos of my favorite ladies.





This little gem of a lady I met while at BYU. She was my first neighbor and ended up being my dearest friend. She and I share a love of travelling, celeb gossip, theater, Walmart, and eating out. Since we've left BYU, our girls weekends have been sparce but she never fails to make me laugh or give me good boost when I'm in need of one. A true friend.




This woman is like no other. She and I met while working in Florida in the Disney College Program. She from Oklahoma, I from California. She lived in the building next to mine and we worked totally opposite schedules. Proof that our friendship was meant to be. She is my favorite cruising buddy, has taugh me endless lessons on faith and trust in the Lord, is full of spirit and spunk, and my perfect example of living life with vigor. I love this woman and am forever greatful for our friendship.

This is my favorite picture of this lady. She is probably going to hate me for posting it. But she is by far my favorite friend. She has been with me through it all. Through messy bedrooms, akward friends, horrible fashion sence, terrible boyfriends, drastic haircuts, and everything in between. I couldn't imagine life with another sister and, quite frankly, am perfectly content with just this one. She is my makup artist, style guru, story teller, motivational speaker, laugh a minute, perfect friend.

I am truely blessed.