Monday, December 14, 2009
...professional reception pictures...
these images are copy righted by Bridgette Marie Photography. Please do not use them for any other purpose than your viewing pleasure. thanks.
...profession rings and the cake pictures...
these images are copy righted by Bridgette Marie Photography. Please do not use them for any other purpose than your viewing pleasure. thanks.
...professional flowers and decor pictures...
these images are copy righted by Bridgette Marie Photography. Please do not use them for any other purpose than your viewing pleasure. thanks.
decor was done by my wonderful mother.
...professional temple pictures...
these images are copy righted by Bridgette Marie Photography. Please do not use them for any other purpose than your viewing pleasure. thanks.
...professional balboa pictures...
these images are copy righted by Bridgette Marie Photography. Please do not use them for any other purpose than your viewing pleasure. thanks.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
MORE WEDDING PHOTOS
Friday, November 27, 2009
...engagement story: hers...
i know i have been a complete slacker when it came to blogging about how we got engaged! forgive me please. bry's version of this story is much better than me seeing as there is a little background information about events i had no idea about before the engagement. i'll have him blog about it to. and don't worry it will be a great deal shorter than what i write (girl vs. guy).
it was august 13th. about 2:00 pm. the fourth day of the kindergarten year. mary our secretary comes in the room. we are in the middle of a math lesson on using unifix cubes as math tools. i'm teaching one to one correspondence (one cube to one letter in our name). mary nicely let's me that marianne (our principal) would like to see me. apparently i am needed in the office for a parent emergency. she let's me know that it must be solved before the end of the day.
i'm thinking... OMGosh (that's for you bry) what could have possibly gone wrong. its only the fourth day of school and i'm already having parental problems?!?!? i'm new at this school. did i do something wrong? did i yell at someone? did i forget something in the beginning of the year packets?!? AH! "ok kids, play with the unifix cubes. i'll be right back. listen to mrs. mary. and if you are good i will give you class points when i get back."
*****%%*$#$ this is me trying not to freak out on my way to the office. i'm going through every minute of the last four days in my head. i'm telling myself it's really nothing. i'm fine. i haven't done anything wrong. what could this parent possibly be that upset about that it couldn't wait until after school? is marianne just giving me a heads up so when i take the kids out i don't get eaten alive? going through the kids that go to parent pick up. nope no issues yet....
... enter the office. wow that was the longest walk to the office i have ever had. when i get there i'm directed to patty's office. phew, at least its only the assistant principal's office. can't be that bad right? patty is on the phone. i can hear the operator on the other end letting her know that the number she just dialed is no longer in service and to hang up and try again. she let's me know that there has been an issue with the little ones that have heart conditions in our school and that she'll be with me shortly.
i continue to go through every scenario i can in my head. the office seems to be in a hustle every where i look. grace is answering the phones which seem to be ringing off the hook. patty is coming in and out of the office with lorriane the school nurse tracking down emergency cards and health records. i'm not sure what is going on but i'm sweating and getting hot.
after what seemed like forever... mary came back in. she let me know that she is having management problems in my room. knowing my class, i'm not surprised at this point. once again it's only the fourth day of kindergarten. they still get out of their chairs whenever they want, talk out like they are the only other person in the room besides me, amongst many other things. sigh. "i'm coming. patty i'll be back in just a sec."
as we walk back to my room, mary hands me a big blue note and says that i'm going to need this as i walk back. "what?" read the note. duh jen. so i read the note as i walk to my room (i'll have to add a picture of the note later):
"As you return to class, Miss Lee,it was august 13th. about 2:00 pm. the fourth day of the kindergarten year. mary our secretary comes in the room. we are in the middle of a math lesson on using unifix cubes as math tools. i'm teaching one to one correspondence (one cube to one letter in our name). mary nicely let's me that marianne (our principal) would like to see me. apparently i am needed in the office for a parent emergency. she let's me know that it must be solved before the end of the day.
i'm thinking... OMGosh (that's for you bry) what could have possibly gone wrong. its only the fourth day of school and i'm already having parental problems?!?!? i'm new at this school. did i do something wrong? did i yell at someone? did i forget something in the beginning of the year packets?!? AH! "ok kids, play with the unifix cubes. i'll be right back. listen to mrs. mary. and if you are good i will give you class points when i get back."
*****%%*$#$ this is me trying not to freak out on my way to the office. i'm going through every minute of the last four days in my head. i'm telling myself it's really nothing. i'm fine. i haven't done anything wrong. what could this parent possibly be that upset about that it couldn't wait until after school? is marianne just giving me a heads up so when i take the kids out i don't get eaten alive? going through the kids that go to parent pick up. nope no issues yet....
... enter the office. wow that was the longest walk to the office i have ever had. when i get there i'm directed to patty's office. phew, at least its only the assistant principal's office. can't be that bad right? patty is on the phone. i can hear the operator on the other end letting her know that the number she just dialed is no longer in service and to hang up and try again. she let's me know that there has been an issue with the little ones that have heart conditions in our school and that she'll be with me shortly.
i continue to go through every scenario i can in my head. the office seems to be in a hustle every where i look. grace is answering the phones which seem to be ringing off the hook. patty is coming in and out of the office with lorriane the school nurse tracking down emergency cards and health records. i'm not sure what is going on but i'm sweating and getting hot.
after what seemed like forever... mary came back in. she let me know that she is having management problems in my room. knowing my class, i'm not surprised at this point. once again it's only the fourth day of kindergarten. they still get out of their chairs whenever they want, talk out like they are the only other person in the room besides me, amongst many other things. sigh. "i'm coming. patty i'll be back in just a sec."
as we walk back to my room, mary hands me a big blue note and says that i'm going to need this as i walk back. "what?" read the note. duh jen. so i read the note as i walk to my room (i'll have to add a picture of the note later):
Don't be surprised to see,
All your students lined up in a queue,
They have important question for you!"
uh, still confused. i finished the note as i got to the door way. at this point i'm thinking that this is some sort of initiation for the school. they are "family" like so i was thinking that this was something they do to new teacher. boy was i wrong!
when i looked up i saw all my kids holding these giant letters above their heads:
when i looked up i saw all my kids holding these giant letters above their heads:
my kids were so excited! robyn (my mother-in-law) video taped all the kids and asked them some questions. we'll have to post that as soon as we get a chance to breath. it was cute. bry also got all the kids a pair of zoo animal scissors for helping him ask me to marry him. best quote from that part "i've always wanted a collection of scissors." love it. the kids LOVED their scissors.
after bry read them a story and we packed up to go home. perfect way to start the year.
that night we celebrated robyn's birthday at Nick's. yummy italian food. we got engaged on robyn's birthday. courtney and austin (bry's sister and brother-in-law) had gotten engaged on steve's (my father-in-laws) birthday. so it seemed fitting. to be honest it just happened to work out that way. and were happy it did!
after bry read them a story and we packed up to go home. perfect way to start the year.
that night we celebrated robyn's birthday at Nick's. yummy italian food. we got engaged on robyn's birthday. courtney and austin (bry's sister and brother-in-law) had gotten engaged on steve's (my father-in-laws) birthday. so it seemed fitting. to be honest it just happened to work out that way. and were happy it did!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
registry information
Here is where we are registered:
Bed Bath and Beyond # 11326230
Crate and Barrel # 4378447
Target
Dottie's Kitchen (coming soon)
Bed Bath and Beyond # 11326230
Crate and Barrel # 4378447
Target
Dottie's Kitchen (coming soon)
our beginning: his
the beginning: his story
My side of the story…
There I was breaking my neck trying to keep up with all the new names being read over the pulpit. You see, the first Sunday of a new ward is like a squirrel in the fall gathering his winter’s supply of acorns…it’s nuts! Prime scheming time. There had to have been 50 names read that day. For those of you that have ever been in that situation before you know how awkward it can be to be introduced in front of 300 people…inner monologue ‘Smile. Don’t make eye contact with anybody, especially Cute Girl sitting next to Handsome Guy. Hands in the pockets or at my side? In the pockets for sure. Take a quick peek at Cute Girl, check Handsome Guy, sup dude. I wonder if the people behind me have noticed my male patterned baldness. Okay pal read the next name already!’ But how entertaining it is when you’re not the one being introduced! I couldn’t keep up with how many there were. Every guy knows that’s the time to scope out the babes without being too obvious. After about 25 names and feeling like I was center court at Wimbledon, this cute little Asian girl stood up named Lee. With a flower in her hair she smiled, that was it. I didn’t catch her last name but I didn’t care. I knew all I needed to know. Lee was cute and she was the one.
It would take me a few weeks to muster up the courage to talk to her. I remember one night pointing her out to one of my friends, ‘there’s that cute little Asian girl, I think her name is Lee.’ He told me that if I didn’t go talk to her, he would. Something about the thought of approaching her made me nervous. I didn’t want to mess up my chances by saying something stupid. Finding the right opportunity was the hard part. She was always talking to guys, always. Not just one, but two or three at a time.
My ‘right’ opportunity came during a game of knockout. She was towards the back of the line and her arms were full of mixing bowls, if any of you reading this know Jen that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Without even thinking of anything to say after, I stuck out my hand and said ‘Hi. I’m Bryan.’ Now this was stupid for 3 reasons. 1. Her arms were full which made it difficult to shake my hand. 2. Who shakes hands? 3. I was in the middle of an intense game of knockout, nearly lost my place in line, and pretty much just left her hanging as I got back in the game. I know you’re thinking ‘heaven forbid you lose your spot in a knockout line for talking to the girl of your dreams!’ Come on, I’m pretty competitive as Jen can attest. I’m still working on that…Needless to say that didn’t make me feel like I made a good first impression and I drove home that night convinced that I had blown it.
After a few random but seemingly pre-planned sightings I started to regain my confidence in talking to the cute little Asian girl. The brief moments we had let me know that I still had a chance with her. I wanted to ask Jen out and I knew I had to do it quick. The problem was how.
I was under a lot of pressure from the other woman in my life, my mother. It was Christmas time and I wanted to host a dinner party for my friends and the Santa’s Little Helper of their choice. For two weeks straight my mom and I did something every day like working on the menu, decorating, and ironing the table cloths. She goes all out. Putting so much time into party prep I had neglected all social activities and had still not asked Jen to be my little helper. I was warned if I didn’t ask her soon then I might be too late.
I found out Miss Lee was going to a certain Classy Christmas party and thought that would provide a great opportunity to ask her. So I did all could to look classy and headed to the party. I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to ask her out and it was making me kind of nervous, especially when I found out she was running late. I just wanted to get it over with! My friends wanted to leave but Jen still hadn’t shown up and I couldn’t let another day go without asking her. Enter Christmas Wish List. On the back wall of the party hung a giant wish list upon which several people had written out there heart’s desires to be wrapped up under the tree. I grabbed a marker and went to town, ‘Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee!’ and included my phone number instead of my name. Suspense! I was quite proud of my wish and anxiously awaited the response.
Merry Christmas! She said yes!
The next six days were a very long six days. Garland strung with lights and cranberries in vases occupied any and all free time. I just wanted to see Jen. I knew she liked to cook so I asked her to come over the night before to help. It was great and only made me more excited for the dinner party. Jen gives great details about the food prep night and the party so I’ll spare you the repetition. The party was fantastic, no detail went unnoticed, and the date…well, let’s just say Christmas came a few days early last year!
My side of the story…
There I was breaking my neck trying to keep up with all the new names being read over the pulpit. You see, the first Sunday of a new ward is like a squirrel in the fall gathering his winter’s supply of acorns…it’s nuts! Prime scheming time. There had to have been 50 names read that day. For those of you that have ever been in that situation before you know how awkward it can be to be introduced in front of 300 people…inner monologue ‘Smile. Don’t make eye contact with anybody, especially Cute Girl sitting next to Handsome Guy. Hands in the pockets or at my side? In the pockets for sure. Take a quick peek at Cute Girl, check Handsome Guy, sup dude. I wonder if the people behind me have noticed my male patterned baldness. Okay pal read the next name already!’ But how entertaining it is when you’re not the one being introduced! I couldn’t keep up with how many there were. Every guy knows that’s the time to scope out the babes without being too obvious. After about 25 names and feeling like I was center court at Wimbledon, this cute little Asian girl stood up named Lee. With a flower in her hair she smiled, that was it. I didn’t catch her last name but I didn’t care. I knew all I needed to know. Lee was cute and she was the one.
It would take me a few weeks to muster up the courage to talk to her. I remember one night pointing her out to one of my friends, ‘there’s that cute little Asian girl, I think her name is Lee.’ He told me that if I didn’t go talk to her, he would. Something about the thought of approaching her made me nervous. I didn’t want to mess up my chances by saying something stupid. Finding the right opportunity was the hard part. She was always talking to guys, always. Not just one, but two or three at a time.
My ‘right’ opportunity came during a game of knockout. She was towards the back of the line and her arms were full of mixing bowls, if any of you reading this know Jen that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Without even thinking of anything to say after, I stuck out my hand and said ‘Hi. I’m Bryan.’ Now this was stupid for 3 reasons. 1. Her arms were full which made it difficult to shake my hand. 2. Who shakes hands? 3. I was in the middle of an intense game of knockout, nearly lost my place in line, and pretty much just left her hanging as I got back in the game. I know you’re thinking ‘heaven forbid you lose your spot in a knockout line for talking to the girl of your dreams!’ Come on, I’m pretty competitive as Jen can attest. I’m still working on that…Needless to say that didn’t make me feel like I made a good first impression and I drove home that night convinced that I had blown it.
After a few random but seemingly pre-planned sightings I started to regain my confidence in talking to the cute little Asian girl. The brief moments we had let me know that I still had a chance with her. I wanted to ask Jen out and I knew I had to do it quick. The problem was how.
I was under a lot of pressure from the other woman in my life, my mother. It was Christmas time and I wanted to host a dinner party for my friends and the Santa’s Little Helper of their choice. For two weeks straight my mom and I did something every day like working on the menu, decorating, and ironing the table cloths. She goes all out. Putting so much time into party prep I had neglected all social activities and had still not asked Jen to be my little helper. I was warned if I didn’t ask her soon then I might be too late.
I found out Miss Lee was going to a certain Classy Christmas party and thought that would provide a great opportunity to ask her. So I did all could to look classy and headed to the party. I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to ask her out and it was making me kind of nervous, especially when I found out she was running late. I just wanted to get it over with! My friends wanted to leave but Jen still hadn’t shown up and I couldn’t let another day go without asking her. Enter Christmas Wish List. On the back wall of the party hung a giant wish list upon which several people had written out there heart’s desires to be wrapped up under the tree. I grabbed a marker and went to town, ‘Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee!’ and included my phone number instead of my name. Suspense! I was quite proud of my wish and anxiously awaited the response.
Merry Christmas! She said yes!
The next six days were a very long six days. Garland strung with lights and cranberries in vases occupied any and all free time. I just wanted to see Jen. I knew she liked to cook so I asked her to come over the night before to help. It was great and only made me more excited for the dinner party. Jen gives great details about the food prep night and the party so I’ll spare you the repetition. The party was fantastic, no detail went unnoticed, and the date…well, let’s just say Christmas came a few days early last year!
Saturday, October 10, 2009
the beginning: his story
My side of the story…
There I was breaking my neck trying to keep up with all the new names being read over the pulpit. You see, the first Sunday of a new ward is like a squirrel in the fall gathering his winter’s supply of acorns…it’s nuts! Prime scheming time. There had to have been 50 names read that day. For those of you that have ever been in that situation before you know how awkward it can be to be introduced in front of 300 people…inner monologue ‘Smile. Don’t make eye contact with anybody, especially Cute Girl sitting next to Handsome Guy. Hands in the pockets or at my side? In the pockets for sure. Take a quick peek at Cute Girl, check Handsome Guy, sup dude. I wonder if the people behind me have noticed my male patterned baldness. Okay pal read the next name already!’ But how entertaining it is when you’re not the one being introduced! I couldn’t keep up with how many there were. Every guy knows that’s the time to scope out the babes without being too obvious. After about 25 names and feeling like I was center court at Wimbledon, this cute little Asian girl stood up named Lee. With a flower in her hair she smiled, that was it. I didn’t catch her last name but I didn’t care. I knew all I needed to know. Lee was cute and she was the one.
It would take me a few weeks to muster up the courage to talk to her. I remember one night pointing her out to one of my friends, ‘there’s that cute little Asian girl, I think her name is Lee.’ He told me that if I didn’t go talk to her, he would. Something about the thought of approaching her made me nervous. I didn’t want to mess up my chances by saying something stupid. Finding the right opportunity was the hard part. She was always talking to guys, always. Not just one, but two or three at a time.
My ‘right’ opportunity came during a game of knockout. She was towards the back of the line and her arms were full of mixing bowls, if any of you reading this know Jen that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Without even thinking of anything to say after, I stuck out my hand and said ‘Hi. I’m Bryan.’ Now this was stupid for 3 reasons. 1. Her arms were full which made it difficult to shake my hand. 2. Who shakes hands? 3. I was in the middle of an intense game of knockout, nearly lost my place in line, and pretty much just left her hanging as I got back in the game. I know you’re thinking ‘heaven forbid you lose your spot in a knockout line for talking to the girl of your dreams!’ Come on, I’m pretty competitive as Jen can attest. I’m still working on that…Needless to say that didn’t make me feel like I made a good first impression and I drove home that night convinced that I had blown it.
After a few random but seemingly pre-planned sightings I started to regain my confidence in talking to the cute little Asian girl. The brief moments we had let me know that I still had a chance with her. I wanted to ask Jen out and I knew I had to do it quick. The problem was how.
I was under a lot of pressure from the other woman in my life, my mother. It was Christmas time and I wanted to host a dinner party for my friends and the Santa’s Little Helper of their choice. For two weeks straight my mom and I did something every day like working on the menu, decorating, and ironing the table cloths. She goes all out. Putting so much time into party prep I had neglected all social activities and had still not asked Jen to be my little helper. I was warned if I didn’t ask her soon then I might be too late.
I found out Miss Lee was going to a certain Classy Christmas party and thought that would provide a great opportunity to ask her. So I did all could to look classy and headed to the party. I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to ask her out and it was making me kind of nervous, especially when I found out she was running late. I just wanted to get it over with! My friends wanted to leave but Jen still hadn’t shown up and I couldn’t let another day go without asking her. Enter Christmas Wish List. On the back wall of the party hung a giant wish list upon which several people had written out there heart’s desires to be wrapped up under the tree. I grabbed a marker and went to town, ‘Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee!’ and included my phone number instead of my name. Suspense! I was quite proud of my wish and anxiously awaited the response.
Merry Christmas! She said yes!
The next six days were a very long six days. Garland strung with lights and cranberries in vases occupied any and all free time. I just wanted to see Jen. I knew she liked to cook so I asked her to come over the night before to help. It was great and only made me more excited for the dinner party. Jen gives great details about the food prep night and the party so I’ll spare you the repetition. The party was fantastic, no detail went unnoticed, and the date…well, let’s just say Christmas came a few days early last year!
There I was breaking my neck trying to keep up with all the new names being read over the pulpit. You see, the first Sunday of a new ward is like a squirrel in the fall gathering his winter’s supply of acorns…it’s nuts! Prime scheming time. There had to have been 50 names read that day. For those of you that have ever been in that situation before you know how awkward it can be to be introduced in front of 300 people…inner monologue ‘Smile. Don’t make eye contact with anybody, especially Cute Girl sitting next to Handsome Guy. Hands in the pockets or at my side? In the pockets for sure. Take a quick peek at Cute Girl, check Handsome Guy, sup dude. I wonder if the people behind me have noticed my male patterned baldness. Okay pal read the next name already!’ But how entertaining it is when you’re not the one being introduced! I couldn’t keep up with how many there were. Every guy knows that’s the time to scope out the babes without being too obvious. After about 25 names and feeling like I was center court at Wimbledon, this cute little Asian girl stood up named Lee. With a flower in her hair she smiled, that was it. I didn’t catch her last name but I didn’t care. I knew all I needed to know. Lee was cute and she was the one.
It would take me a few weeks to muster up the courage to talk to her. I remember one night pointing her out to one of my friends, ‘there’s that cute little Asian girl, I think her name is Lee.’ He told me that if I didn’t go talk to her, he would. Something about the thought of approaching her made me nervous. I didn’t want to mess up my chances by saying something stupid. Finding the right opportunity was the hard part. She was always talking to guys, always. Not just one, but two or three at a time.
My ‘right’ opportunity came during a game of knockout. She was towards the back of the line and her arms were full of mixing bowls, if any of you reading this know Jen that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Without even thinking of anything to say after, I stuck out my hand and said ‘Hi. I’m Bryan.’ Now this was stupid for 3 reasons. 1. Her arms were full which made it difficult to shake my hand. 2. Who shakes hands? 3. I was in the middle of an intense game of knockout, nearly lost my place in line, and pretty much just left her hanging as I got back in the game. I know you’re thinking ‘heaven forbid you lose your spot in a knockout line for talking to the girl of your dreams!’ Come on, I’m pretty competitive as Jen can attest. I’m still working on that…Needless to say that didn’t make me feel like I made a good first impression and I drove home that night convinced that I had blown it.
After a few random but seemingly pre-planned sightings I started to regain my confidence in talking to the cute little Asian girl. The brief moments we had let me know that I still had a chance with her. I wanted to ask Jen out and I knew I had to do it quick. The problem was how.
I was under a lot of pressure from the other woman in my life, my mother. It was Christmas time and I wanted to host a dinner party for my friends and the Santa’s Little Helper of their choice. For two weeks straight my mom and I did something every day like working on the menu, decorating, and ironing the table cloths. She goes all out. Putting so much time into party prep I had neglected all social activities and had still not asked Jen to be my little helper. I was warned if I didn’t ask her soon then I might be too late.
I found out Miss Lee was going to a certain Classy Christmas party and thought that would provide a great opportunity to ask her. So I did all could to look classy and headed to the party. I wasn’t quite sure how I was going to ask her out and it was making me kind of nervous, especially when I found out she was running late. I just wanted to get it over with! My friends wanted to leave but Jen still hadn’t shown up and I couldn’t let another day go without asking her. Enter Christmas Wish List. On the back wall of the party hung a giant wish list upon which several people had written out there heart’s desires to be wrapped up under the tree. I grabbed a marker and went to town, ‘Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee!’ and included my phone number instead of my name. Suspense! I was quite proud of my wish and anxiously awaited the response.
Merry Christmas! She said yes!
The next six days were a very long six days. Garland strung with lights and cranberries in vases occupied any and all free time. I just wanted to see Jen. I knew she liked to cook so I asked her to come over the night before to help. It was great and only made me more excited for the dinner party. Jen gives great details about the food prep night and the party so I’ll spare you the repetition. The party was fantastic, no detail went unnoticed, and the date…well, let’s just say Christmas came a few days early last year!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
more maps
California Reception Site Map: (address can also be found along the right side of the home page)
Click Here
Arizona Reception Site Map: (address can also be found along the right side of the home page)
Click Here
Click Here
Arizona Reception Site Map: (address can also be found along the right side of the home page)
Click Here
Saturday, October 3, 2009
our beginning: hers
Here is our beginning according to yours truly:
So I guess some would think that our story started with the letter to Santa requesting a date with me as the one thing they wanted for Christmas. But little do most know that my side of the story started a month or so before that.
I started to attend the Scottsdale 3rd Ward in September of 2008. The first week I was contacted by the executive secretary to meet with the bishop. That night I met with the bishop. The following Sunday I met with one of his counselors to receive a calling. My calling: FHE leader. Little did I know at the time that this would be a tool in meeting my future husband! I tell you it was divinely inspired.
A month or so later I started seeing a guy in the ward. He shall remain nameless (not for any reason, just because). I remember seeing Bry at an FHE activity and just loving his smile. I couldn’t stop staring at his perfectly straight teeth. I was mesmerized. Me being the insecure person, I know we all are sometimes, thought that he wouldn’t want anything to do with me. So I focused on Nameless Guy (I hope you aren’t offended if you are reading this).
One ward FHE, I was talking to Nameless Guy and setting up a date when I looked up and saw Bry playing shoot out with some guys in the ward. I can’t remember if he bumped into me or what but I remember trying to play it cool and ask him “I’m sorry, what’s your name again?” I knew his name. haha. But it was an excuse to talk to him. “Bryan.” Right. Bryan. Well to make a long story short Nameless Guy moved back to Utah suddenly and that was that.
So I set out on a new mission. I wanted to meet this boy with the perfect smile and I was about to use my church calling to do it. I was feeling a need for a change and decided to change my hair. So Monday night after returning from Utah I went to work in Tom and Ashley’s bathroom. I came out sassy black and blonde panels.
I was in a sassy mood and gave sassiness to Bry that night at FHE. That is when I found out the horrible news. The news that made me re-think this whole mission. I found out that night that Bryan was a Ute. A Ute, that is right. He had attended the one school that really got me going. How was this ever supposed to work? That night I also told him that we couldn’t be friends. Wow did I eat those words right up.
I continued to concoct different ways and different activities to have our groups combine for FHE. Annie please don’t hate me for doing this! Corrine, bless her heart, came up with the best activity yet and she didn’t even know it! Our groups combined to go to the Tempe Symphony at Gammage Theater at ASU. I had most of the tickets for the event that night. We all gathered outside of the theater. I waited. I over heard someone mention that Bryan was running late and that he had a couple of friends with them. I volunteered to wait outside for them with tickets. I made sure to have a set to give that was in our section. Haha. Lame I know.
Well…. Everyone basically ended up waiting outside. Bryan arrived. I chickened out in trying to sit next to him and moved across the row and took a seat. Chris, Jeff, and Dave had fun eating all the candy we could find in my purse. If you know me, you know I always have snacks during activities (i.e. church, movies, football games, etc.). I looked down the row and there bry is sitting next to a really cute girl. I was kind of bummed.
Then it happened. I was set on not liking her just because she was where I wanted to be. Haha. Real mature. When I got a “pssst.” I looked down and the girl said, “Jen I just LOVE your shoes… where did you get them?” I couldn’t hate her then. My lovely zebra shoes! MacKenzie is a doll and I love her.
During the second act I got a nice little note on the back of the program letting me know how lame BYU was. And that the Utes this and the Utes that. We started passing notes back and forth. It was really fun to get saucy with him about the rivalry and have it all be in good fun. I started to like him more and more as the night progressed and his sense of humor started to come out. I don’t think I heard a single song that night. I was too busy listening to the wheels turn in my head about what to do next.
Finally it was over. We all proceeded outside to visit. And enter The Other Guy. The Other Guy and I started chatting about playing tennis. Any time I got the chance I tried to include Bryan in the conversation or at least try to send the message of who I really wanted to talk to. It ended up being helpful to us getting together—The Other Guy. He asked for my phone number to get together and play tennis. And so did Bry. I didn’t get his number though. Just The Other Guy’s. Great. Sigh. I tried to keep the evening going by suggesting we all head to the I hop across the street for a snack. Strike. No such luck.
Oh well. That was fun while it lasted. Or was it just starting? Obviously that question is already answered by the fact that this site even exists. Back Story: Bry had gone out with my now roommate, who wasn’t my roommate at the time that we lived together. That will come into play later. Keep that in the back of your mind.
I was pleasantly surprised to get a text a few days later during lunch from a number that I didn’t recognize. “IT IS HIM!” I remember my stomach dropping. I was so excited. We text back and forth for some time. And later he sent out one of his witty and clever text to the tennis group that he coordinated. The message said that I should come and play tennis and that I should invite this other roommate to come with me. Now, I’m thinking, “Great he is totally using me to get back with her.” I didn’t want any part of that. When I got home I asked her if she wanted to come. She declined the offer and said that I should go anyways.
My wonderful sister offered the best advice to me as I was discussing the situation with her. I will forever be indebted to her (for many more reasons than this). She told me “Jen, GO! Boys don’t ask girls to play sports with them for the competition. They ask them for other reasons. Duh!” So just when I was about to bail out, I decided to dust off my racquet and gear and go. Sigh. “I am going to completely humiliate myself.”
Off I went to my first Tennis Thursday get together. It had been a while. A LONG WHILE since I had picked up my racquet. And it didn’t help that I wasn’t very good to begin with. Ha ha. Thanks to Rob, Bryce, and Paige I was able to at least hit the ball. Enter in The Other Guy AGAIN. He was there. Chatting it up with me. I ended up play with Bryan somehow; go figure against The Other Guy and some other guy.
I only got hit once because I wasn’t paying attention. I was so nervous, I couldn’t do anything other than stand there. “What the heck is your problem? You look ridiculously stupid!” And that was the truth. You can ask him. I was feeling bad that we lost. I took my sorry stuff to a different court and began hitting back and forth with The Other Guy. I probably shouldn’t have done that (sending the wrong message) but it was helping me to relax because I wasn’t trying to impress him. I finally started to get back into the “swing” of things (bry that one was for you).
The night ended with me winning Around the World 3 times. I at least did that much. Then the awkwardness commenced with discussion of weekend plans. There was a big Holiday Party at a house in our ward. Lemme tell you these boys know how to throw one Classy Christmas Party. I confirmed with both The Other Guy and with Bryan that I would be there. I had to look not only good, but classy (not that that is hard or anything—classy not trashy). So it was off to pick an outfit for the venture. Enter in Ashley of the Ashley and Tom dynamic duo who saved me from being homeless in Arizona. We combined for what I would say ended up being a winner ensemble.
Saturday arrived. I spent too much time in front of the mirror. But I ended up being happy with the choice of outfit. A knee length herringbone dress and black turtle neck. Casual but dressy all at one time. Topped it off with red pumps. I love to wear black and white and add a punch of color with accessories. LOVE shoes. Then I added the poinsettia for the holiday affect. Around 9:00 I went to pick up my friends Laurel and Markay. We were fashionably late (the party started at 7:30). I got text after text from both B and The Other Guy. I was coming, hold your horses.
Upon arrival, we set down our contributions to the party and started out looking for people we knew, mostly just looking for Bryan. Shot some cute pictures with Megan and MacKenzie. I was nonchalantly scoping out the rooms for B. No luck. Kenzie came and told me that I had to see this wall at the back of the house. Being the crafty person that she is she lead me to these giant posters on the wall for which guests were supposed to write their holiday “wish lists” and letters to Santa.
Apparently it was my turn to write on the wall. I started to read the wall for inspiration when my eyes got caught up on my name… wait… what did that just say. “Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee next Friday” followed by a phone number. But wait, the phone number had been crossed out and replaced with a different number. A number I recognized. Not really the number I was hoping for (no offense). I had to read it again. And AGAIN. And all I could do was point and say “That’s me!”
I went up and put the phone number in my phone. I was elated when Bry’s name came up (I didn’t recognize his number at first). I pushed SEND. By this time everyone who had already seen the entry had come in to see what I was going to say and to listen to me call. I honestly felt like a million dollars that day. I was on cloud nine. It went straight to voicemail. “Hi this is Bryan….” Ah! I hung up before I realized it. Then turned around and answered a million “so who is it’s?” I turned back around to re-read the message when I felt two hand on each of my shoulders.
Then a voice. “So what do you say?” I turned around and that voice did not belong to who I was hoping it did, it was him, The Other Guy. I was trying to be as nice as possible. I thought it was kind of rude for him to take credit for something some else had done. Not super impressed. I politely declined saying that I already had plans (because I had every intention of telling Bryan yes and he did ask first). Ten minutes later I was present with another alternative date by TOG. Once again I politely declined.
A few minutes later I was prompted by the crowd to write a response. So I did. It went something like this “Yes. Dear Santa, I don’t need anything for Christmas I got everything I ever wanted (with an arrow pointing to his letter). And I really have gotten everything I have ever wanted and more.
After what seemed like forever, I saw him. He walked up to me and said “So?” And I said “What?” (smooth) “Are you available next Friday?” “Um, I have to ask my parents.” (“did I just say what I think I said, ‘I have to ask my parents?’ what?”). I was telling myself how stupid I just sounded. Really Jen? Really? Out of all the things you could say. Bounce back say something…. “Well I have to ask my mom and dad because they are coming in from California that weekend and we are supposed to do things together as a family. Can I get back to you?” “Uh, sure.” Phew. Wow.
We spent the evening hanging out with friends and just having fun. He looked SO good in his cream sweater and holiday tie. I was completely smitten.
The next day I did ask my mom. I told her the story and she said “Jen, of course you have to go out with him. GO OUT WITH HIM! You are crazy if you don’t.” So I did.
I had to wait 6 days until our date. 6 days! We text every day for most of the day (when appropriate at work of course). We chatted at night. 6 days. What the heck, let’s go out tomorrow! Could I wait until then. Let’s get this party started! And we did. Thursday he invited me over after asking if I was any good in the kitchen. Ha, am I good in the kitchen?
Upon arrival I met his mom and youngest sister. We both cleared any misunderstanding that may have come up about the Nameless Guy and my now roommate. We cooked ginger bread with lemon sauce, red hot candied apple slices, and wassle. Talked and headed home. Friday was our first official date. The Christmas party was a hit. Bryan invited some of his guy friends and the girl of their choice. Lexi and her friend Erin served us. Wonderful service.
And of course you all I'm sure are wondering what I wore to this Christmas shin dig to snag such a fella.
Well that is a good story in and of itself. I had asked Bryan what his favorite color was. I wanted to do something that showed that I was really interested in him and what he like. His response, “grass green.” Okay, grass green it is. With that in mind I set out on search for the perfect grass green shirt to wear to the party. It took me all six days to find it, but I finally did.
The evening was filled with laughter and just good company. We played the gift exchange game called Greed. I can’t remember what I won. I just remember laughing so hard while we played Catch Phrase. “Put the sandwich in the bag… in the bag” and “It’s made with ham…I know, A HAMBURGER!”
The guests left and the clean up began. We spent a few hours washing dishes and getting to know one another. I asked for a different shirt to wear while washing the dishes, as to not ruin my new silk grass green shirt. And tada… he produced his Utah t-shirt. I was about to commit the cardinal sin for a guy. Wow I must really like this guy. I changed into the t shirt and fought every urge to “accidentally” get food all over it. I even wore my four inch heels to wash the dishes so I could be a comfortable height to use the sink.
The evening went well into the early morning. I think we talked until three in the morning (didn’t have our first kiss until a week later so the night was definitely g rated). I drove home and crawled into bed. That night I had a “sleeping with the enemy” experience in the fact that I wore the U t-shirt to sleep. AH!!!! I still bleed blue. I will die bleeding blue. GO COUGARS!
And it’s been history since then. We spent every day together until I left for California for Christmas. Talked every day while I was gone and then continued to spend every day together until about the end of February/March. And fell in love.
the end.
Or
the beginning.
the beginning: hers
So I guess some would think that our story started with the letter to Santa requesting a date with me as the one thing they wanted for Christmas. But little do most know that my side of the story started a month or so before that.
I started to attend the Scottsdale 3rd Ward in September of 2008. The first week I was contacted by the executive secretary to meet with the bishop. That night I met with the bishop. The following Sunday I met with one of his counselors to receive a calling. My calling: FHE leader. Little did I know at the time that this would be a tool in meeting my future husband! I tell you it was divinely inspired.
A month or so later I started seeing a guy in the ward. He shall remain nameless (not for any reason, just because). I remember seeing Bry at an FHE activity and just loving his smile. I couldn’t stop staring at his perfectly straight teeth. I was mesmerized. Me being the insecure person, I know we all are sometimes, thought that he wouldn’t want anything to do with me. So I focused on Nameless Guy (I hope you aren’t offended if you are reading this).
One ward FHE, I was talking to Nameless Guy and setting up a date when I looked up and saw Bry playing shoot out with some guys in the ward. I can’t remember if he bumped into me or what but I remember trying to play it cool and ask him “I’m sorry, what’s your name again?” I knew his name. haha. But it was an excuse to talk to him. “Bryan.” Right. Bryan. Well to make a long story short Nameless Guy moved back to Utah suddenly and that was that.
So I set out on a new mission. I wanted to meet this boy with the perfect smile and I was about to use my church calling to do it. I was feeling a need for a change and decided to change my hair. So Monday night after returning from Utah I went to work in Tom and Ashley’s bathroom. I came out sassy black and blonde panels.
I was in a sassy mood and gave sassiness to Bry that night at FHE. That is when I found out the horrible news. The news that made me re-think this whole mission. I found out that night that Bryan was a Ute. A Ute, that is right. He had attended the one school that really got me going. How was this ever supposed to work? That night I also told him that we couldn’t be friends. Wow did I eat those words right up.
I continued to concoct different ways and different activities to have our groups combine for FHE. Annie please don’t hate me for doing this! Corrine, bless her heart, came up with the best activity yet and she didn’t even know it! Our groups combined to go to the Tempe Symphony at Gammage Theater at ASU. I had most of the tickets for the event that night. We all gathered outside of the theater. I waited. I over heard someone mention that Bryan was running late and that he had a couple of friends with them. I volunteered to wait outside for them with tickets. I made sure to have a set to give that was in our section. Haha. Lame I know.
Well…. Everyone basically ended up waiting outside. Bryan arrived. I chickened out in trying to sit next to him and moved across the row and took a seat. Chris, Jeff, and Dave had fun eating all the candy we could find in my purse. If you know me, you know I always have snacks during activities (i.e. church, movies, football games, etc.). I looked down the row and there bry is sitting next to a really cute girl. I was kind of bummed.
Then it happened. I was set on not liking her just because she was where I wanted to be. Haha. Real mature. When I got a “pssst.” I looked down and the girl said, “Jen I just LOVE your shoes… where did you get them?” I couldn’t hate her then. My lovely zebra shoes! MacKenzie is a doll and I love her.
During the second act I got a nice little note on the back of the program letting me know how lame BYU was. And that the Utes this and the Utes that. We started passing notes back and forth. It was really fun to get saucy with him about the rivalry and have it all be in good fun. I started to like him more and more as the night progressed and his sense of humor started to come out. I don’t think I heard a single song that night. I was too busy listening to the wheels turn in my head about what to do next.
Finally it was over. We all proceeded outside to visit. And enter The Other Guy. The Other Guy and I started chatting about playing tennis. Any time I got the chance I tried to include Bryan in the conversation or at least try to send the message of who I really wanted to talk to. It ended up being helpful to us getting together—The Other Guy. He asked for my phone number to get together and play tennis. And so did Bry. I didn’t get his number though. Just The Other Guy’s. Great. Sigh. I tried to keep the evening going by suggesting we all head to the I hop across the street for a snack. Strike. No such luck.
Oh well. That was fun while it lasted. Or was it just starting? Obviously that question is already answered by the fact that this site even exists. Back Story: Bry had gone out with my now roommate, who wasn’t my roommate at the time that we lived together. That will come into play later. Keep that in the back of your mind.
I was pleasantly surprised to get a text a few days later during lunch from a number that I didn’t recognize. “IT IS HIM!” I remember my stomach dropping. I was so excited. We text back and forth for some time. And later he sent out one of his witty and clever text to the tennis group that he coordinated. The message said that I should come and play tennis and that I should invite this other roommate to come with me. Now, I’m thinking, “Great he is totally using me to get back with her.” I didn’t want any part of that. When I got home I asked her if she wanted to come. She declined the offer and said that I should go anyways.
My wonderful sister offered the best advice to me as I was discussing the situation with her. I will forever be indebted to her (for many more reasons than this). She told me “Jen, GO! Boys don’t ask girls to play sports with them for the competition. They ask them for other reasons. Duh!” So just when I was about to bail out, I decided to dust off my racquet and gear and go. Sigh. “I am going to completely humiliate myself.”
Off I went to my first Tennis Thursday get together. It had been a while. A LONG WHILE since I had picked up my racquet. And it didn’t help that I wasn’t very good to begin with. Ha ha. Thanks to Rob, Bryce, and Paige I was able to at least hit the ball. Enter in The Other Guy AGAIN. He was there. Chatting it up with me. I ended up play with Bryan somehow; go figure against The Other Guy and some other guy.
I only got hit once because I wasn’t paying attention. I was so nervous, I couldn’t do anything other than stand there. “What the heck is your problem? You look ridiculously stupid!” And that was the truth. You can ask him. I was feeling bad that we lost. I took my sorry stuff to a different court and began hitting back and forth with The Other Guy. I probably shouldn’t have done that (sending the wrong message) but it was helping me to relax because I wasn’t trying to impress him. I finally started to get back into the “swing” of things (bry that one was for you).
The night ended with me winning Around the World 3 times. I at least did that much. Then the awkwardness commenced with discussion of weekend plans. There was a big Holiday Party at a house in our ward. Lemme tell you these boys know how to throw one Classy Christmas Party. I confirmed with both The Other Guy and with Bryan that I would be there. I had to look not only good, but classy (not that that is hard or anything—classy not trashy). So it was off to pick an outfit for the venture. Enter in Ashley of the Ashley and Tom dynamic duo who saved me from being homeless in Arizona. We combined for what I would say ended up being a winner ensemble.
Saturday arrived. I spent too much time in front of the mirror. But I ended up being happy with the choice of outfit. A knee length herringbone dress and black turtle neck. Casual but dressy all at one time. Topped it off with red pumps. I love to wear black and white and add a punch of color with accessories. LOVE shoes. Then I added the poinsettia for the holiday affect. Around 9:00 I went to pick up my friends Laurel and Markay. We were fashionably late (the party started at 7:30). I got text after text from both B and The Other Guy. I was coming, hold your horses.
Upon arrival, we set down our contributions to the party and started out looking for people we knew, mostly just looking for Bryan. Shot some cute pictures with Megan and MacKenzie. I was nonchalantly scoping out the rooms for B. No luck. Kenzie came and told me that I had to see this wall at the back of the house. Being the crafty person that she is she lead me to these giant posters on the wall for which guests were supposed to write their holiday “wish lists” and letters to Santa.
Apparently it was my turn to write on the wall. I started to read the wall for inspiration when my eyes got caught up on my name… wait… what did that just say. “Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee next Friday” followed by a phone number. But wait, the phone number had been crossed out and replaced with a different number. A number I recognized. Not really the number I was hoping for (no offense). I had to read it again. And AGAIN. And all I could do was point and say “That’s me!”
I went up and put the phone number in my phone. I was elated when Bry’s name came up (I didn’t recognize his number at first). I pushed SEND. By this time everyone who had already seen the entry had come in to see what I was going to say and to listen to me call. I honestly felt like a million dollars that day. I was on cloud nine. It went straight to voicemail. “Hi this is Bryan….” Ah! I hung up before I realized it. Then turned around and answered a million “so who is it’s?” I turned back around to re-read the message when I felt two hand on each of my shoulders.
Then a voice. “So what do you say?” I turned around and that voice did not belong to who I was hoping it did, it was him, The Other Guy. I was trying to be as nice as possible. I thought it was kind of rude for him to take credit for something some else had done. Not super impressed. I politely declined saying that I already had plans (because I had every intention of telling Bryan yes and he did ask first). Ten minutes later I was present with another alternative date by TOG. Once again I politely declined.
A few minutes later I was prompted by the crowd to write a response. So I did. It went something like this “Yes. Dear Santa, I don’t need anything for Christmas I got everything I ever wanted (with an arrow pointing to his letter). And I really have gotten everything I have ever wanted and more.
After what seemed like forever, I saw him. He walked up to me and said “So?” And I said “What?” (smooth) “Are you available next Friday?” “Um, I have to ask my parents.” (“did I just say what I think I said, ‘I have to ask my parents?’ what?”). I was telling myself how stupid I just sounded. Really Jen? Really? Out of all the things you could say. Bounce back say something…. “Well I have to ask my mom and dad because they are coming in from California that weekend and we are supposed to do things together as a family. Can I get back to you?” “Uh, sure.” Phew. Wow.
We spent the evening hanging out with friends and just having fun. He looked SO good in his cream sweater and holiday tie. I was completely smitten.
The next day I did ask my mom. I told her the story and she said “Jen, of course you have to go out with him. GO OUT WITH HIM! You are crazy if you don’t.” So I did.
I had to wait 6 days until our date. 6 days! We text every day for most of the day (when appropriate at work of course). We chatted at night. 6 days. What the heck, let’s go out tomorrow! Could I wait until then. Let’s get this party started! And we did. Thursday he invited me over after asking if I was any good in the kitchen. Ha, am I good in the kitchen?
Upon arrival I met his mom and youngest sister. We both cleared any misunderstanding that may have come up about the Nameless Guy and my now roommate. We cooked ginger bread with lemon sauce, red hot candied apple slices, and wassle. Talked and headed home. Friday was our first official date. The Christmas party was a hit. Bryan invited some of his guy friends and the girl of their choice. Lexi and her friend Erin served us. Wonderful service.
And of course you all I'm sure are wondering what I wore to this Christmas shin dig to snag such a fella.
Well that is a good story in and of itself. I had asked Bryan what his favorite color was. I wanted to do something that showed that I was really interested in him and what he like. His response, “grass green.” Okay, grass green it is. With that in mind I set out on search for the perfect grass green shirt to wear to the party. It took me all six days to find it, but I finally did.
The evening was filled with laughter and just good company. We played the gift exchange game called Greed. I can’t remember what I won. I just remember laughing so hard while we played Catch Phrase. “Put the sandwich in the bag… in the bag” and “It’s made with ham…I know, A HAMBURGER!”
The guests left and the clean up began. We spent a few hours washing dishes and getting to know one another. I asked for a different shirt to wear while washing the dishes, as to not ruin my new silk grass green shirt. And tada… he produced his Utah t-shirt. I was about to commit the cardinal sin for a guy. Wow I must really like this guy. I changed into the t shirt and fought every urge to “accidentally” get food all over it. I even wore my four inch heels to wash the dishes so I could be a comfortable height to use the sink.
The evening went well into the early morning. I think we talked until three in the morning (didn’t have our first kiss until a week later so the night was definitely g rated). I drove home and crawled into bed. That night I had a “sleeping with the enemy” experience in the fact that I wore the U t-shirt to sleep. AH!!!! I still bleed blue. I will die bleeding blue. GO COUGARS!
And it’s been history since then. We spent every day together until I left for California for Christmas. Talked every day while I was gone and then continued to spend every day together until about the end of February/March. And fell in love.
the end.
Or
the beginning.
I started to attend the Scottsdale 3rd Ward in September of 2008. The first week I was contacted by the executive secretary to meet with the bishop. That night I met with the bishop. The following Sunday I met with one of his counselors to receive a calling. My calling: FHE leader. Little did I know at the time that this would be a tool in meeting my future husband! I tell you it was divinely inspired.
A month or so later I started seeing a guy in the ward. He shall remain nameless (not for any reason, just because). I remember seeing Bry at an FHE activity and just loving his smile. I couldn’t stop staring at his perfectly straight teeth. I was mesmerized. Me being the insecure person, I know we all are sometimes, thought that he wouldn’t want anything to do with me. So I focused on Nameless Guy (I hope you aren’t offended if you are reading this).
One ward FHE, I was talking to Nameless Guy and setting up a date when I looked up and saw Bry playing shoot out with some guys in the ward. I can’t remember if he bumped into me or what but I remember trying to play it cool and ask him “I’m sorry, what’s your name again?” I knew his name. haha. But it was an excuse to talk to him. “Bryan.” Right. Bryan. Well to make a long story short Nameless Guy moved back to Utah suddenly and that was that.
So I set out on a new mission. I wanted to meet this boy with the perfect smile and I was about to use my church calling to do it. I was feeling a need for a change and decided to change my hair. So Monday night after returning from Utah I went to work in Tom and Ashley’s bathroom. I came out sassy black and blonde panels.
I was in a sassy mood and gave sassiness to Bry that night at FHE. That is when I found out the horrible news. The news that made me re-think this whole mission. I found out that night that Bryan was a Ute. A Ute, that is right. He had attended the one school that really got me going. How was this ever supposed to work? That night I also told him that we couldn’t be friends. Wow did I eat those words right up.
I continued to concoct different ways and different activities to have our groups combine for FHE. Annie please don’t hate me for doing this! Corrine, bless her heart, came up with the best activity yet and she didn’t even know it! Our groups combined to go to the Tempe Symphony at Gammage Theater at ASU. I had most of the tickets for the event that night. We all gathered outside of the theater. I waited. I over heard someone mention that Bryan was running late and that he had a couple of friends with them. I volunteered to wait outside for them with tickets. I made sure to have a set to give that was in our section. Haha. Lame I know.
Well…. Everyone basically ended up waiting outside. Bryan arrived. I chickened out in trying to sit next to him and moved across the row and took a seat. Chris, Jeff, and Dave had fun eating all the candy we could find in my purse. If you know me, you know I always have snacks during activities (i.e. church, movies, football games, etc.). I looked down the row and there bry is sitting next to a really cute girl. I was kind of bummed.
Then it happened. I was set on not liking her just because she was where I wanted to be. Haha. Real mature. When I got a “pssst.” I looked down and the girl said, “Jen I just LOVE your shoes… where did you get them?” I couldn’t hate her then. My lovely zebra shoes! MacKenzie is a doll and I love her.
During the second act I got a nice little note on the back of the program letting me know how lame BYU was. And that the Utes this and the Utes that. We started passing notes back and forth. It was really fun to get saucy with him about the rivalry and have it all be in good fun. I started to like him more and more as the night progressed and his sense of humor started to come out. I don’t think I heard a single song that night. I was too busy listening to the wheels turn in my head about what to do next.
Finally it was over. We all proceeded outside to visit. And enter The Other Guy. The Other Guy and I started chatting about playing tennis. Any time I got the chance I tried to include Bryan in the conversation or at least try to send the message of who I really wanted to talk to. It ended up being helpful to us getting together—The Other Guy. He asked for my phone number to get together and play tennis. And so did Bry. I didn’t get his number though. Just The Other Guy’s. Great. Sigh. I tried to keep the evening going by suggesting we all head to the I hop across the street for a snack. Strike. No such luck.
Oh well. That was fun while it lasted. Or was it just starting? Obviously that question is already answered by the fact that this site even exists. Back Story: Bry had gone out with my now roommate, who wasn’t my roommate at the time that we lived together. That will come into play later. Keep that in the back of your mind.
I was pleasantly surprised to get a text a few days later during lunch from a number that I didn’t recognize. “IT IS HIM!” I remember my stomach dropping. I was so excited. We text back and forth for some time. And later he sent out one of his witty and clever text to the tennis group that he coordinated. The message said that I should come and play tennis and that I should invite this other roommate to come with me. Now, I’m thinking, “Great he is totally using me to get back with her.” I didn’t want any part of that. When I got home I asked her if she wanted to come. She declined the offer and said that I should go anyways.
My wonderful sister offered the best advice to me as I was discussing the situation with her. I will forever be indebted to her (for many more reasons than this). She told me “Jen, GO! Boys don’t ask girls to play sports with them for the competition. They ask them for other reasons. Duh!” So just when I was about to bail out, I decided to dust off my racquet and gear and go. Sigh. “I am going to completely humiliate myself.”
Off I went to my first Tennis Thursday get together. It had been a while. A LONG WHILE since I had picked up my racquet. And it didn’t help that I wasn’t very good to begin with. Ha ha. Thanks to Rob, Bryce, and Paige I was able to at least hit the ball. Enter in The Other Guy AGAIN. He was there. Chatting it up with me. I ended up play with Bryan somehow; go figure against The Other Guy and some other guy.
I only got hit once because I wasn’t paying attention. I was so nervous, I couldn’t do anything other than stand there. “What the heck is your problem? You look ridiculously stupid!” And that was the truth. You can ask him. I was feeling bad that we lost. I took my sorry stuff to a different court and began hitting back and forth with The Other Guy. I probably shouldn’t have done that (sending the wrong message) but it was helping me to relax because I wasn’t trying to impress him. I finally started to get back into the “swing” of things (bry that one was for you).
The night ended with me winning Around the World 3 times. I at least did that much. Then the awkwardness commenced with discussion of weekend plans. There was a big Holiday Party at a house in our ward. Lemme tell you these boys know how to throw one Classy Christmas Party. I confirmed with both The Other Guy and with Bryan that I would be there. I had to look not only good, but classy (not that that is hard or anything—classy not trashy). So it was off to pick an outfit for the venture. Enter in Ashley of the Ashley and Tom dynamic duo who saved me from being homeless in Arizona. We combined for what I would say ended up being a winner ensemble.
Saturday arrived. I spent too much time in front of the mirror. But I ended up being happy with the choice of outfit. A knee length herringbone dress and black turtle neck. Casual but dressy all at one time. Topped it off with red pumps. I love to wear black and white and add a punch of color with accessories. LOVE shoes. Then I added the poinsettia for the holiday affect. Around 9:00 I went to pick up my friends Laurel and Markay. We were fashionably late (the party started at 7:30). I got text after text from both B and The Other Guy. I was coming, hold your horses.
Upon arrival, we set down our contributions to the party and started out looking for people we knew, mostly just looking for Bryan. Shot some cute pictures with Megan and MacKenzie. I was nonchalantly scoping out the rooms for B. No luck. Kenzie came and told me that I had to see this wall at the back of the house. Being the crafty person that she is she lead me to these giant posters on the wall for which guests were supposed to write their holiday “wish lists” and letters to Santa.
Apparently it was my turn to write on the wall. I started to read the wall for inspiration when my eyes got caught up on my name… wait… what did that just say. “Dear Santa, All I want for Christmas is a date with Jen Lee next Friday” followed by a phone number. But wait, the phone number had been crossed out and replaced with a different number. A number I recognized. Not really the number I was hoping for (no offense). I had to read it again. And AGAIN. And all I could do was point and say “That’s me!”
I went up and put the phone number in my phone. I was elated when Bry’s name came up (I didn’t recognize his number at first). I pushed SEND. By this time everyone who had already seen the entry had come in to see what I was going to say and to listen to me call. I honestly felt like a million dollars that day. I was on cloud nine. It went straight to voicemail. “Hi this is Bryan….” Ah! I hung up before I realized it. Then turned around and answered a million “so who is it’s?” I turned back around to re-read the message when I felt two hand on each of my shoulders.
Then a voice. “So what do you say?” I turned around and that voice did not belong to who I was hoping it did, it was him, The Other Guy. I was trying to be as nice as possible. I thought it was kind of rude for him to take credit for something some else had done. Not super impressed. I politely declined saying that I already had plans (because I had every intention of telling Bryan yes and he did ask first). Ten minutes later I was present with another alternative date by TOG. Once again I politely declined.
A few minutes later I was prompted by the crowd to write a response. So I did. It went something like this “Yes. Dear Santa, I don’t need anything for Christmas I got everything I ever wanted (with an arrow pointing to his letter). And I really have gotten everything I have ever wanted and more.
After what seemed like forever, I saw him. He walked up to me and said “So?” And I said “What?” (smooth) “Are you available next Friday?” “Um, I have to ask my parents.” (“did I just say what I think I said, ‘I have to ask my parents?’ what?”). I was telling myself how stupid I just sounded. Really Jen? Really? Out of all the things you could say. Bounce back say something…. “Well I have to ask my mom and dad because they are coming in from California that weekend and we are supposed to do things together as a family. Can I get back to you?” “Uh, sure.” Phew. Wow.
We spent the evening hanging out with friends and just having fun. He looked SO good in his cream sweater and holiday tie. I was completely smitten.
The next day I did ask my mom. I told her the story and she said “Jen, of course you have to go out with him. GO OUT WITH HIM! You are crazy if you don’t.” So I did.
I had to wait 6 days until our date. 6 days! We text every day for most of the day (when appropriate at work of course). We chatted at night. 6 days. What the heck, let’s go out tomorrow! Could I wait until then. Let’s get this party started! And we did. Thursday he invited me over after asking if I was any good in the kitchen. Ha, am I good in the kitchen?
Upon arrival I met his mom and youngest sister. We both cleared any misunderstanding that may have come up about the Nameless Guy and my now roommate. We cooked ginger bread with lemon sauce, red hot candied apple slices, and wassle. Talked and headed home. Friday was our first official date. The Christmas party was a hit. Bryan invited some of his guy friends and the girl of their choice. Lexi and her friend Erin served us. Wonderful service.
And of course you all I'm sure are wondering what I wore to this Christmas shin dig to snag such a fella.
Well that is a good story in and of itself. I had asked Bryan what his favorite color was. I wanted to do something that showed that I was really interested in him and what he like. His response, “grass green.” Okay, grass green it is. With that in mind I set out on search for the perfect grass green shirt to wear to the party. It took me all six days to find it, but I finally did.
The evening was filled with laughter and just good company. We played the gift exchange game called Greed. I can’t remember what I won. I just remember laughing so hard while we played Catch Phrase. “Put the sandwich in the bag… in the bag” and “It’s made with ham…I know, A HAMBURGER!”
The guests left and the clean up began. We spent a few hours washing dishes and getting to know one another. I asked for a different shirt to wear while washing the dishes, as to not ruin my new silk grass green shirt. And tada… he produced his Utah t-shirt. I was about to commit the cardinal sin for a guy. Wow I must really like this guy. I changed into the t shirt and fought every urge to “accidentally” get food all over it. I even wore my four inch heels to wash the dishes so I could be a comfortable height to use the sink.
The evening went well into the early morning. I think we talked until three in the morning (didn’t have our first kiss until a week later so the night was definitely g rated). I drove home and crawled into bed. That night I had a “sleeping with the enemy” experience in the fact that I wore the U t-shirt to sleep. AH!!!! I still bleed blue. I will die bleeding blue. GO COUGARS!
And it’s been history since then. We spent every day together until I left for California for Christmas. Talked every day while I was gone and then continued to spend every day together until about the end of February/March. And fell in love.
the end.
Or
the beginning.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Monday, September 7, 2009
Airport Information
Ontario International Airport
Airport Code. ONT
Distance to Corona. Approximately 20 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 47 Miles
John Wayne Airport
Airport Code. SNA
Distance to Corona. Approximately 34 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 4 Miles
Long Beach Airport
Airport Code. LGB
Distance to Corona. Approximately 44 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 24 Miles
Los Angeles International Airport
Airport Code. LAX
Distance to Corona. Approximately 59 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 43 Miles
Airport Code. ONT
Distance to Corona. Approximately 20 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 47 Miles
John Wayne Airport
Airport Code. SNA
Distance to Corona. Approximately 34 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 4 Miles
Long Beach Airport
Airport Code. LGB
Distance to Corona. Approximately 44 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 24 Miles
Los Angeles International Airport
Airport Code. LAX
Distance to Corona. Approximately 59 Miles
Distance to Newport Beach. Approximately 43 Miles
Hotel Information
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Corona
1550 CIRCLE CITY DRIVE
CORONA, CA 92879
Phone: 1-951-479-4000
http://www.holidayinn.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/corca?crUrl=/h/d/hi/1/en/availsearch&rpb=hotel&start=null
Map from Ontario Airport to Hotel: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Ontario+Airport,+California&daddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE+CORONA,+CA+92879&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.966142,-117.570877&sspn=0.269364,0.44014&ie=UTF8&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (via toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&hl=en&saddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE,+Corona,+Ca&daddr=2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=32.939885,56.337891&ie=UTF8&ll=33.757085,-117.704715&spn=0.540043,0.88028&z=10
Map from Hotel to the Temple (non-toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&hl=en&geocode=%3BFcqTBAIdl5j6-CmfL-dCA9HcgDFA9qrbiSEnEw%3B&saddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE,+Corona,+Ca&daddr=33.85441,-117.794665+to:2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=32.939885,56.337891&ie=UTF8&ll=33.757085,-117.704715&spn=0.540043,0.88028&z=10&via=1
Map from Hotel to Reception Site: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE,+Corona,+Ca&daddr=33.8606558,-117.55028+to:1510+Taber+Road,+Corona,+Ca+92881&hl=en&geocode=%3BFS-sBAIdOFP--ClnbAeG-MfcgDFR6hH9WuMDEw%3B&mra=ls&sll=33.757085,-117.704715&sspn=0.540043,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=14&via=1
SpringHill Suites Corona Riverside Marriott
2025 Compton Ave,
Corona, California 92881
Phone: 1-951-520-0984
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ontcr-springhill-suites-corona-riverside/
Map from Ontario Airport to Hotel: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Ontario+Airport,+California&daddr=2025+Compton+Ave,+Corona,+California+92881&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=33.96642,-117.570585&sspn=0.269364,0.44014&ie=UTF8&ll=33.955891,-117.566071&spn=0.269396,0.44014&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (via toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=2025+Compton+Ave,+Corona,+California+92881&daddr=2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.76665,-117.712625&sspn=0.539986,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (non-toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=2025+Compton+Ave,+Corona,+California+92881&daddr=33.85441,-117.794665+to:2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=%3BFcqTBAIdl5j6-CmfL-dCA9HcgDFA9qrbiSEnEw%3B&mra=ls&sll=33.76665,-117.712625&sspn=0.539986,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=11&via=1Map from Hotel to Reception Site: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=2025+Compton+Ave+Corona,+California+92881&daddr=1510+Taber+Road,+Corona,+Ca+92881&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.855105,-117.540335&sspn=0.033714,0.055017&ie=UTF8&z=15
Hampton Inn Norco/Corona North
1530 Hamner Ave,
Norco, California 92860
Phone:1-951-279-1111
http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=ONTNCHX
Map from Ontario Airport to Hotel: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Ontario+Airport,+California&daddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=33.955891,-117.566071&sspn=0.269396,0.44014&ie=UTF8&ll=33.985502,-117.571564&spn=0.269302,0.44014&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (via toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860+&daddr=2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.872415,-117.548745&sspn=0.067415,0.110035&ie=UTF8&z=10
Map from Hotel to the Temple (non-toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860&daddr=33.84112,-117.832035+to:2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=%3BFeBfBAIdnQb6-CmD1Z5Z1dbcgDEQ1TfZiSEnEw%3B&mra=ls&sll=33.872415,-117.548745&sspn=0.067415,0.110035&ie=UTF8&z=10&via=1
Map from Hotel to Reception Site: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860&daddr=1510+Taber+Road,+Corona,+Ca+92881&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.845445,-117.537195&sspn=0.016859,0.027509&ie=UTF8&z=13
1550 CIRCLE CITY DRIVE
CORONA, CA 92879
Phone: 1-951-479-4000
http://www.holidayinn.com/h/d/ex/1/en/hotel/corca?crUrl=/h/d/hi/1/en/availsearch&rpb=hotel&start=null
Map from Ontario Airport to Hotel: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Ontario+Airport,+California&daddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE+CORONA,+CA+92879&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.966142,-117.570877&sspn=0.269364,0.44014&ie=UTF8&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (via toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&hl=en&saddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE,+Corona,+Ca&daddr=2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=32.939885,56.337891&ie=UTF8&ll=33.757085,-117.704715&spn=0.540043,0.88028&z=10
Map from Hotel to the Temple (non-toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&hl=en&geocode=%3BFcqTBAIdl5j6-CmfL-dCA9HcgDFA9qrbiSEnEw%3B&saddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE,+Corona,+Ca&daddr=33.85441,-117.794665+to:2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=32.939885,56.337891&ie=UTF8&ll=33.757085,-117.704715&spn=0.540043,0.88028&z=10&via=1
Map from Hotel to Reception Site: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1550+CIRCLE+CITY+DRIVE,+Corona,+Ca&daddr=33.8606558,-117.55028+to:1510+Taber+Road,+Corona,+Ca+92881&hl=en&geocode=%3BFS-sBAIdOFP--ClnbAeG-MfcgDFR6hH9WuMDEw%3B&mra=ls&sll=33.757085,-117.704715&sspn=0.540043,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=14&via=1
SpringHill Suites Corona Riverside Marriott
2025 Compton Ave,
Corona, California 92881
Phone: 1-951-520-0984
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/ontcr-springhill-suites-corona-riverside/
Map from Ontario Airport to Hotel: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Ontario+Airport,+California&daddr=2025+Compton+Ave,+Corona,+California+92881&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=33.96642,-117.570585&sspn=0.269364,0.44014&ie=UTF8&ll=33.955891,-117.566071&spn=0.269396,0.44014&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (via toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=2025+Compton+Ave,+Corona,+California+92881&daddr=2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.76665,-117.712625&sspn=0.539986,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (non-toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=2025+Compton+Ave,+Corona,+California+92881&daddr=33.85441,-117.794665+to:2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=%3BFcqTBAIdl5j6-CmfL-dCA9HcgDFA9qrbiSEnEw%3B&mra=ls&sll=33.76665,-117.712625&sspn=0.539986,0.88028&ie=UTF8&z=11&via=1Map from Hotel to Reception Site: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=2025+Compton+Ave+Corona,+California+92881&daddr=1510+Taber+Road,+Corona,+Ca+92881&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.855105,-117.540335&sspn=0.033714,0.055017&ie=UTF8&z=15
Hampton Inn Norco/Corona North
1530 Hamner Ave,
Norco, California 92860
Phone:1-951-279-1111
http://hamptoninn.hilton.com/en/hp/hotels/index.jhtml?ctyhocn=ONTNCHX
Map from Ontario Airport to Hotel: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=Ontario+Airport,+California&daddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860&hl=en&mra=ls&sll=33.955891,-117.566071&sspn=0.269396,0.44014&ie=UTF8&ll=33.985502,-117.571564&spn=0.269302,0.44014&z=11
Map from Hotel to the Temple (via toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860+&daddr=2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.872415,-117.548745&sspn=0.067415,0.110035&ie=UTF8&z=10
Map from Hotel to the Temple (non-toll road): http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860&daddr=33.84112,-117.832035+to:2300+Bonita+Canyon+Drive,+Newport+Beach,+California+92660&hl=en&geocode=%3BFeBfBAIdnQb6-CmD1Z5Z1dbcgDEQ1TfZiSEnEw%3B&mra=ls&sll=33.872415,-117.548745&sspn=0.067415,0.110035&ie=UTF8&z=10&via=1
Map from Hotel to Reception Site: http://maps.google.com/maps?f=d&source=s_d&saddr=1530+Hamner+Ave,+Norco,+California+92860&daddr=1510+Taber+Road,+Corona,+Ca+92881&hl=en&geocode=&mra=ls&sll=33.845445,-117.537195&sspn=0.016859,0.027509&ie=UTF8&z=13
Monday, August 17, 2009
holy blogamony
... yes it is true! bryan and i are officially engaged. i meant to write up the story this weekend... but there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in the day. i will get to it soon. please keep check back. thanks.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
...fourth of july...
Let freedom ring… its INDEPENDENCE DAY~ Fourth of July this year was great. It was my first week off from school. That in and of itself was an event worth celebrating. Hooray! (BOO to the fact that I am still waiting for a contract to teach in the Fall due to the RIF). Anywho, fourth of july is one of my favorite holidays. And as a matter of fact I can’t really think of a holiday that I don’t like, so… with that said… happy birthday America! This year I celebrated the fourth with bryan and his family.
Started the day with tennis! An American pass time? I have no idea where the sport originated… maybe Europe somewhere… like England? I dunno. No internet access at the moment to research the topic (on the plane to Hawaii). Haha. Acutally bry planned a tennis outing in conjunction with Wimbledon. Great idea bry. We played doubles with scott and dustin turner from the ward. 
I’ll leave the victors in the two matches we played up to your imagination. And as a hint I’m sure the victories went to the obvious team…=). I’m sure its not too hard to figure out.
After the tennis rendezvous I met up with Lee, Brooke, and Jen for breakfast. We are big breakfast fans. This time we experienced the most important meal of the day at a little place on Scottsdale road called the breakfast club. Lee, Katie, and I tried to eat there on a previous Saturday, but the wait was over an hour… I’m patient, but not that patient especially when I’m hungry.
Breakfast was yummy. The orders at our table ranged from yogurt and fresh fruit to a delicious omelet. We had an array of potatoes (potatoes o brien to hashed). I had a short stack of butter milk pancakes. They were mouth watering. Our next breakfast outing will be at a new place in Scottsdale called bacon. I’m very excited.
Next, was swimming at the bluths. That’s right… after stuffing yourself silly with potatoes and pancakes jump into your suit jen! Way to show off that meal. Loverly. Roxie (the bluth’s boston) started us off with a virgin voyage in her new pirate ship. She definitely ruled the high seas of the backyard pool. The ship later turned into a floating target as each member took turns practiced their chipping skills from the nearby lawn.
“wanna know the stupidest thing I did today…?” let’s just say their was a bruised tail bone involved with that line. I would like to say that the act that brought about said bruised tail bone was a complete success. 
Inside a fourth of july feast that could send your taste buds soaring like fireworks in the dark night sky was being created. Robyn and the rest of the bluth clan never cease to amaze me with their ability to entertain. The table was decorated with red, white, and blue metal pin wheels in red, white, and blue metal buckets. There was a flag runner and each cloth napkin was tied with a red, white, or blue party popper. And of course the ribbons were all of a patriotic nature.
Back outside the bbq was lit and the master bbq-ers bryan and his dad grilled up some Italian sausage, bratwurst, and chicken. They were teamed with a great pasta salad which has been a tradition in the family since the days in Chicago, a fruit tray with sweet fruit dips, and salad. I felt spoiled. 
We headed out to Surprise to meet up with Uncle Alan and Cenea and their family to watch fireworks. Alan has a construction site that was supposedly home to a great view for the fireworks show. And well its true! We sat about 100-150 yards from where the show was being executed. We set up our camping chairs in the back of the pick up truck, pulled out a cold bottle of water, and watch the sky light on fire. My rib cage vibrated through the whole show as the lights danced across the black sky. Best view in town. Hands down.
And of course we capped the night off with root beer floats and later with ESPNs Sport Center Recap. Gosh I love America. 
Friday, July 3, 2009
...officially arizona...
yes its true. i'm about give up my last physical claim to being from california-the license plate. ah! i gave up my california diver's license last august... i had a really difficult time handing the DMV lady my license. pathetic i know. i hesitated when she asked me for my current license. i thought of things that i could say (aka a lie) to some how keep from having to forfeit my license to the state of az. i went through a few stories in my head quickly, but before i knew it my hand was moving toward her with my license in tow. ah.... stop! stop! she snatched it before i could open my mouth. i may have put up a little tug when she went to grab it. a small part of me died that day. haha.
and now its time to give up the last little part of me that keeps me rooted as an "out of stater." i like that my car let's other people know that "i'm not from here." not that i have a problem with az. i did like that it made me more "normal" while i was in utah. i like that i didn't have to claim utah with my plates. but now its time to move on... how superficial am i?
internally i'm still fighting to keep my california plates. but in two weeks the fate of my car will have been decided. should i keep the california plates...? there are risks with having a az license and a-out-of-state car... aka a hefty fine... grow up jen. move on. right?
on that note, if i do have to give up my claim to "normalcy" i'm going to do it with some personality and go for personal/vanity plate. i've always wanted to... and this is the time to do it. bry, my sister, and i have been bouncing ideas back and forth. still need to decide. opinions are welcome... here are some choices so far... feel free to add any suggestions:
and now its time to give up the last little part of me that keeps me rooted as an "out of stater." i like that my car let's other people know that "i'm not from here." not that i have a problem with az. i did like that it made me more "normal" while i was in utah. i like that i didn't have to claim utah with my plates. but now its time to move on... how superficial am i?
internally i'm still fighting to keep my california plates. but in two weeks the fate of my car will have been decided. should i keep the california plates...? there are risks with having a az license and a-out-of-state car... aka a hefty fine... grow up jen. move on. right?
on that note, if i do have to give up my claim to "normalcy" i'm going to do it with some personality and go for personal/vanity plate. i've always wanted to... and this is the time to do it. bry, my sister, and i have been bouncing ideas back and forth. still need to decide. opinions are welcome... here are some choices so far... feel free to add any suggestions:
WCKDLVR (Wicked lover... as in the muscial)-mom is against this one =) my favorite
IBLDBLU (I bleed blue)... sadly i checked... and its taken...
i want to meet the person with this car
DGRENIFY (degreenify)
DFYGRTY (defy gravity)... DFYGVTY is already taken
BLEDBLU
IHRTOZ (i heart oz)
WZRD N I (wizard and i)
ELPHIE
SWNKFYD (swankified)
ASNTACO (asian taco)
JENBUG (my nickname from the fam)... sadly taken and i don't have a bug
LVSAUTE (loves a ute...hmmmm) goes great with the "Y" sticker on my car
BITESZE (bite size- a nick name from college)
IBLDBLU (I bleed blue)... sadly i checked... and its taken...
i want to meet the person with this car
DGRENIFY (degreenify)
DFYGRTY (defy gravity)... DFYGVTY is already taken
BLEDBLU
IHRTOZ (i heart oz)
WZRD N I (wizard and i)
ELPHIE
SWNKFYD (swankified)
ASNTACO (asian taco)
JENBUG (my nickname from the fam)... sadly taken and i don't have a bug
LVSAUTE (loves a ute...hmmmm) goes great with the "Y" sticker on my car
BITESZE (bite size- a nick name from college)
i'm taking any other suggestions.
Paige's suggestions:
SHRTSTF - short stuff
BWLNGQN - bowling queen
Paige's suggestions:
SHRTSTF - short stuff
BWLNGQN - bowling queen
Thursday, July 2, 2009
...meet me in california...
...i'll be there waiting for your call...cause you know in california there's something better for us all..."-Plain White Ts.
a couple of weeks ago Lee and I headed to california for a carefree weekend! earlier that week we just decided to jump in the car and head to the sunny state. it happened to be father's day weekend, so that worked out perfectly for me to spend the day with my dad.
our road trip started in the classic lee and jen date... with chick-fil-a. its our "chick" date. yum. we cruised to cali experiencing new tunes from the plain white ts (new to us that is) and fell in love with the song sunlight by them. we stopped twice to use the restroom. now i'm the type that goes for distance and doesn't stop unless its an emergency. however lee was fair enough and let me know about her only flaw for a road trip "i'm pretty much perfect with the exception that i have a small bladder." love you lee.
friday we spent the day shopping for swim suits and hanging out by the pool. lee experienced in-n-out for the first time.... and need less to say she was hooked after the first bite! we went back for seconds before leaving california. that night i met up with amy (!) and heather (!) to see the proposal. good flick. oh amy how i've missed you. good times. "my new phone made me all these friends"
saturday was filled with old friends as well. i met up with andy and quinn to eat dim sum with the grandparents and my dad. we caught up with lee and the democrat at south coast. "she's on your team" "she's my team... my team" andy and quinn had quite the time checkin out all the hotties at the mall.
after the sun decided to finally come out. we headed to the beach. the five of us read and took in the brief period of sunlight on the coast. it was actually perfect. "i love the sun... its probably not the best thing... but i just love the sun."
for dinner that night we went to a little place called TK burger. i opted out of the burger experience. wasn't feelin' all that great. stress related i'm sure. lee was all about the burgers this trip. chalk another one up for a tasty burger experience. i'll make sure to get in on that one next time.
i pretty much slept the rest of the night while aaron and lee hung out in the spa and watched walk the line. i was just overwhelmed and needed a time out. but had a good conversation that came at the perfect time to settle what i was feeling.
sunday i made breakfast in bed for my dad and my mom. i made yummy pancakes and eggs. for lee i made just pancakes because she doesn't like eggs. the sausage didn't get thawed in time. bummer. it has little pieces of pineapple in it. so good. oh well maybe next time.
on our way back we did make a stop at the rite aid in desert center. lee was feeling a cold come on and needed something to catch it before it got worse. she opted to try these chewable things... bad choice. "it started out tasting really good and then all of the sudden it was like chewing this chalky metal stuff" wow. she'll stick to the coldeez or however you spell it. i also introduced her to thrifty's ice cream! LOVE it. my favorite is chocolate malted crunch. yum.
so as you can see there is only one picture of all the adventures of that weekend. just one. but its a good one. love you lee. i'd road trip with you any time!
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