What's mine is Rad

Love it or Leave it

2009-07-06T16:23:00.011-06:00

Every time I see our country's flag, I stop and ponder, sometimes even cry. The flag is a symbol of our heritage, our freedom, and for me, a reminder of my blessings. I was never one to get too excited about presents. While other kids couldn't wait for Christmas or their birthdays, I always loved the fourth of July. It meant family, homemade ice cream, fireworks, and my favorite- our neighborhood parade. It wasn't like the Grand Parade here in Provo. WE were the parade. Kids with their bikes decorated with patriotic streamers, toddlers being pulled in wagons by older siblings, and being dressed up like Betty Ross or the Statue of Liberty. We all walked around the block singing songs and cheering. We weren't cheering at the sight of expensive fireworks, a pretty float or the mayor riding in a cool old car. We cheered because we were happy, free and safe.

It's been 16 years since I walked around that block, cheering. Somehow, I haven't forgotten why I cheer after the national anthem or when an F-16 soars across the evening sky.

The celebration this year lasted a total of 16 hours for Rad and I. The alarm clock sounded while the sun was still rising. The only thing on my mind was why we stayed up so late. Curse you Jimmy Fallon. I dragged Rad out of bed and we left without grabbing breakfast, heading for the balloons. I had never seen the balloon launch. Very few things (if any) are worth waking up that early for. We arrived at 6:45 am just in time to see nothing. The last balloon had already lifted off and they were now climbing higher and higher into the clouds.

I was disappointed but my waking up was not in vain. We met Chelsie and Shawn at Macey's grocery store for a free french toast breakfast. Just when I thought I wouldn't get an up close view of the balloons, one came creeping up behind the Macey's, preparing to land. It seemed to come within inches of the roof, and only millimeters away from a light pole. I imagined it being pierced by the pole or thrown off balance only to crash right on top of us and smother us to death, but the expert balloon guy somehow steered clear and made a perfect landing, just feet away.His crew was already there waiting to help and within a few moments, he was exchanging passengers and was in the air again. I got to see a lift-off after all!Good thing this 8 year old was there to help pull the balloon to the ground

It was the most gorgeous morning. Maybe they are all that beautiful but I've never been up early enough to enjoy them. It's true that the light is fantastic for pictures! I also managed to catch shots of many of the other balloons throughout the morning.All the patriotic balloons in one shot

I loved these colorful balloons

Stoppin off for some Del Taco??

After breakfast, we headed over to the parade. We got amazing seats on a round about and Rad and I read out of The Giver until the parade began. We enjoyed the sunshine...and of course some rain. After the parade, there was time for a nap and then off to a barbecue with Rad's family at noon. Rad's mom, Julie, gave us these bracelets and I read them over and over in my head, just to let it sink in. USA, Love it or Leave it!

Most people take it for granted that we have the freedom to leave our country, to travel and explore. There are some who aren't so fortunate...and I'm with the bracelet- If you don't like it, go somewhere else! If you don't have $$ to leave, I'm sure our country will give you some after you fill out some forms. But I consider myself very lucky to live here and to have been born here.

After the BBQ we had a second nap time and then made delicious homemade ice cream, using my $3 electric wooden ice cream maker from DI (returned to working order by my talented husband). After indulging on Butterfinger Vanilla, we drove up to the Provo temple to watch the fireworks with Chelsie and Shawn.
While we waited for the show to begin, I sat and pondered my bracelet once more, and it was then that I noticed something written on the inside. I turned it inside out to reveal the hidden message.

Wow. I'm Speechless.

One Down, Eternity To Go

2009-06-26T10:08:00.009-06:00

Rad and I celebrated our One Year Anniversary last Saturday. Can I tell you all how fast it goes? As far as I am concerned, until you hit year 5, you are still newlyweds- but I'm glad, cause I love being a newlywed. It's exciting, flirtatious, sweet, it's roses from our garden in the hand of my sweetheart coming through the holes in the stairway banister beside me. Can this feeling just never go away? Or does it have to? Does marriage have to be hard? Maybe it's all part of our learning and growth.

Rad has been planning a surprise anniversary for the past 4 months. He usually can't fool me... only because I sit and analyze every possible situation until I figure out what he's planning. But he was finally able to keep a secret. We drove up to Salt Lake City around 3 pm and checked in to the Grand America hotel and resort.

Our room was incredible. A spacious living room separated from the bedroom by beautiful french doors, a king bed with "down" everything, a huge bathroom with 2 separate vanity's, our own little box of amazing chocolates, and a balcony facing hotel gardens and east mountains.

Can you spot the indoor pool above?

One of the reasons I was not expecting it, is because I know how cautious Rad is with $$. But he's been saving and planning for this for a long time. After getting settled a bit, we drove a block or two to the Melting Pot restaurant. We could've walked, but why not add valet parking to the bill?

Neither of us had ever been there, so we were totally confused by the 4 course menu, but we eventually caught on. First, you pick your cheese to dip your bread, veggies, and even green apples.

Totally not our Merlot by the way, just a stock photo!

Second, choose your salad. Third (by this time I was nearing full) choose your meat platter. We had fillet minion, lemon pepper steak, chicken, and pork. You get a couple different kinds of batters to dip your meat in before cooking it in the oil (which you also choose).

Finally, the dessert course- which you must save room for. You choose your chocolate- we got the "turtle" chocolate mixed with caramel and pecans, and as you can imagine, it's to die for. Then you get a plate of cheesecake, brownies, strawberries, rice crispies and more to dip.

Good till the last drop!

We spent three full hours there- dipping, chatting, waiting for meat to cook... It was relaxing. Considering we dropped a hundred there, I don't plan on goin back for a few years, but it was totally worth it.

Here's our faces when we saw the bill:Retake- Rad says I look to Happy!Hmm.. Now I look....special
We woke up in our hotel room at 5am (talk about a downer) and left to take Rad to the airport. He flew to Philadelphia for a week long Metlife conference. I wish we would have been able to relax there for a few more days, but I am grateful for the mini honeymoon to spend some time together before he left. After dropping him off, I balled the entire way home as I drove 55 and watched the sun rise over the mountains. I am probably the only person in history who didn't have to slow down when I entered the construction zone on the freeway. I know it was so lame of me to cry, but it was the first time we have EVER been apart. I always make fun of people that make a big deal out of leaving their honey for a week, yet I was having a panic attack. In my defense, I am afraid of the dark and we have a huge house! But I am proud to say- I made it. He flys in tonight. I have been waiting to post this just so I could end it on a happy note.

Two glasses of Martinellis and the top tier of our wedding cake all ready to indulge.....

And the honeymoon continues.

Love-Hate

2009-06-19T09:23:00.005-06:00

...but mostly love

Does anyone else have a love-hate relationship with IKEA??? Even when I know I don't NEED something, like another apron for my collection, or a fly swatter to match my home decor, I want it so bad. "But it's such a good price," I always bargain with myself.

Rad HATES this store because you can't get in and out in less than an hour. I couldn't even walk that fast through the IKEA maze if I wanted to. But I still go there, even though I know they are forcing me to walk through the mad house and find things I really don't need and buy them just cause they are so cheap (and incredibly cute). I even still go there after being accused of stealing a $2 lantern (which I most definitely paid for) by an employee when I tried to return it without a receipt. He gave me my $2 after telling me that I was the one who had to live with myself at the end of the day. Don't worry guy, I go to sleep at night just fine. Go have a chat with the Home Depot bandits why don't you.

But the purpose of this post was to exclaim a find I found for a friend while exploring this dreadfully fantastic store:

Dearest Anine,

If I had $500, I know what I'd buy you. This.. because it is perfect for your growing family. You NEED it! And I want to come over and sit at it and eat a meal with you. Seats 10-14 people with 2 removable leafs. Think about it.. that's all I'm saying.

A Culinary Masterpiece

2009-06-15T15:30:00.006-06:00

A Delightful Addendum to the Previous Post

After reading my last entry, Rad asked if I could post about what an awesome cook he really is... since I mentioned the ONE time he's ever messed up in the kitchen. First off, I never thought his eyes would fall upon that post...ever. You see, he only reads my blog when I force him to (although there's no excuse to have belittled him like that). Secondly, I am very lucky to have such a culinary artist as a husband (no I'm not calling you feminine honey). Folks, it's true, my husband is a pretty good cook for a man--and not just with the steaks and potatoes, barbecued chicken and pulled pork burritos. Let's take for instance, the French Toast he made me for breakfast last Saturday.

So we have a little device called the GT Xpress (As seen on TV). After spending hours watching the infomercial Friday night, we were inspired to actually use the one that we got as a wedding gift. The next morning, I sent Rad out to make us some french toast, another favorite breakfast food of mine, using the GT Xpress.
Meanwhile, I cleaned up the kitchen and watched out of the corner of my eye as each of the ingredients was added generously to the shallow dipping pan. Eggs, cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla, and finally, the bread. It seemed to be going alright, but then again, it wasn't over yet. While the battered bread was steaming inside the GT Xpress, I noticed the foulest of smells, and didn't dare comment on it... especially since Rad kept saying how good it smelt.

Fast forward to the eating part. I took one bite and threw it back up on my plate (charming, I know). Rad stared in shock, his fork hovering centimeters from his mouth. Was he trying to sabotage me for making fun of him? No, not like him at all. I knew the culprit almost immediately.
"You put paprika in the french toast!" I cried, literally.
"What? That's not possible!" he exclaimed, running over to the ingredients on the counter. "I swear I checked the label. See, it's Cin--" He trailed off. "Cumin," he sighed bitterly. "I guess I saw the letters C and N and just assumed it was the cinnamon."
I would not wish that evil upon anyone-- french toast a la cumin, except my own husband. Sadly, I could not convince him to take a bite of his masterpiece and I knew I was destined to face the agony alone. That horrid, bitter taste was on my tongue three brushes later. In fact, I don't know if I will ever feel the same way about french toast. To top it all off, Rad wouldn't even allow me to take a picture of the finished product, knowing it would only lead to future embarrassment.

My husband the chef. To clear the record, he's not an idiot and I hope I didn't give anyone that impression. His cooking far exceeds my own abilities. Heck, why do ya think I have him making the french toast in the first place. I'm no all star in the kitchen. Don't worry babe-- two bad incidences won't wipe away a year of positive achievement. Mind if we steer clear of breakfast foods though?

I am so going to be in trouble for this guys. Pray for me.

Today's Reflection- wish I was here again.. It's almost been a year!

Crepes & Butter

2009-06-10T12:32:00.015-06:00

I woke up one Sunday morning with a longing for my favorite breakfast food, the crepe- Thin, perfectly sweet and delicious. I nudged Rad out of his slumber, told him I was in the mood, and asked if he would do the deed. After a moment of hesitation, he rose from bed, eager to please his wife with her favorite breakfast dessert. I got lucky. Of course I knew he secretly agreed to do it because it would give him license to quote one of his all time favorite movie scenes for the rest of the morning, in a French accent. “Just say you like really really thin pancakes,” he says as he exits the room.

I dreamt of sweet smelling blossoms, cool breezes and cool buttery cream. I awoke to the sound of a whisk tapping a glass bowl and the sizzling grill preparing to make its masterpiece. Before returning to my slumber, I thought I should go check on Rad, after all it was his first time making my favorite dish alone. I usually prepare the batter while he helps with the cooking. I asked him how it was going and he said he had it covered and to go back to bed. Before I obliged, I noticed he was stewing over what to do with the butter. I hinted that he should melt it in the microwave before adding it to the batter. I returned to the bedroom to shower, with complete confidence in my sweetheart.

I emerged minutes later, taking in the divine smell coming from the kitchen. I went out and breakfast was done. They looked amazing, stacked high and thin, rolled into perfect golden cylinders with crisp edges and tender centers.

Rad made me giggle with the way he gracefully tapped the sieve of powdered sugar onto the crepes using a spoon. Not just any spoon either- a special spoon, only to be used for tapping.

I carefully filled mine with fruit and cream, rolled and topped them with syrup and dusted with powdered sugar. Heavenly. I noticed, although still delicious, that they tasted slightly different than usual.

“Honey,” I asked, “did you remember to add the vanilla?” His head sunk, as if he knew he was a failure.

“No,” he sighed. I laughed and told him they were delicious and I was the luckiest girl in the world to have such a talented husband, so willing to please his wife.

After all, crepes are no easy task for a man. They have to be delicately thin but not so thin they tear (too thick and they taste like a sponge), somewhat round, perfectly golden, and of course, the first one has to stay warm while you cook the other 10 to 20 individually.

I felt completely satisfied as we cleaned up..

That is, until I found this…

“Sweety,” I inquired, as delicately as I could, “What did you do with the rest of the butter.” Again I saw his head droop, and the same look of defeat swept over his face.

“I guess I accidentally put the whole stick into the crepe batter,” he muttered. He held up the recipe without making eye contact. “And it only wanted 2 tablespoons.” I smiled and creeped up onto my tippy toes to hug him, and my legs felt just a bit heavier as I did.

“Would you like crepes with your butter?” he joked, holding out the wrapper, and I knew I got lucky. Lucky to find someone who made me smile everyday.

Dessert Crepes

3 eggs

7/8 c flour

1 ½ c milk

2 T sugar

2 T butter, melted

1 T vanilla

In a bowl, whisk eggs. Add flour. Whisk until smooth. Add milk slowly and whisk again. Add sugar and then melted butter slowly and whisk.

Using only 2-3 T of batter, drop into oiled pan, tilt pan to spread batter across evenly. Flip and continue to cook until golden brown.

Keep in tortilla warmer between wax paper if available until ready to eat.

Makes 12 crepes

Recipe c/o Michelle Collett

Birthdays

2009-06-03T17:02:00.028-06:00

We celebrated 25 only 12 days apart.

Beautiful little Rad- He's still that same kid inside

Rad's Birthday was: Simple yet Enjoyable.

New Suit & Tie.

Xbox game, ipod arm band.

BBQ with high school pals.

Cake complete with 25 candles.

Jess' was: Extravagant & Nostalgic.

Little me- From 5 to 25 in the blink of an eye

It was my graduation trip slash bday present. It's been five years since I'd been home for my birthday. A lot has changed since then. Finally ready to re-live that day.

My 20th birthday- I knew this would be my last with her. We spent every moment together that day. One month later, we said our goodbyes.

Missing her, but found him.

San Diego. The temple was amazing- we had it pretty much to ourselves!

Family. We had a family party for all the may bdays, but I'm pretending it was all for me!

New shoes x2. (Rad is really good at shopping even though he hates it!)

New purse x2.

Thanks to My bro Shane & sis-in-law Josie, and of course their kids (Arick, Amie, Emily, Adam, Aaron, Ethan, Isaac & Evan.. Did I get everyone??????) for my rainbow purse. I have gotten TONS of compliments on it! Rad lovingly calls it my beach bag!

Old Town- Birthplace of San Diego, Founded by the Mormon battalion: complete with street performers and fresh salt water taffy

Disneyland (Of course free for the birthday girl!) with my sweetheart.. and churos.

Chels, I know what you are thinking- and yes you WERE closing your eyes in this picture. Thankfully I was able to use photoshop to take part of Mickey's ear and reconstruct your face.

Here's us... and chels & shawn (aka the twins)

The creepiest cruise around the world.

The most lifelike, talking, dancing, running, soccer playing robot in the world.

Altogether, 'twas a perfect day. No crowds or lines, perfectly cool sunshine, got to wear an awesome pin and was told happy birthday at least 100 times.

Magical.

New Beginnings

2009-05-16T10:54:00.019-06:00

I am no longer a college student. It’s going to take a while before it really hits me. I graduated high school 7 years ago, and a “high school student” was an identity I was glad to be rid of the second it passed. I’m not so sure I feel the same way about the title “college student.” It's made up my identity for the last 7 years. Most people rejoice the day they finish, but I couldn't help but feel something different. The same thing happened after I got my bachelors degree. I wasn’t truly overjoyed because I knew I wasn’t really done. I just knew that I had to go to graduate school… It was part of my path. I just didn’t know when my life would lead me there. I was waiting but searching.

It’s funny the way things all work out. 10 months after I graduated, I met Rad through a mutual friend at work. I suddenly knew. That was my purpose for waiting a year to return to grad school. I don’t think our paths would’ve ever crossed under any other circumstances. We were in completely different social circles with different interests. Even if we happened to spot each other from a distance while at the bookstore or a restaurant, it wouldn’t have worked. We were both weak at heart, broken, and unable to trust. Only a situation like the one that took place could’ve brought us together (see the post St Patrick's to read our dating story). I started grad school a month and a half later.

But why now, do I feel sad to be rid of the burden of the exams, papers, late nights and early mornings, not knowing how I will feed myself or pay rent next month? It’s the thrill, the challenge, and the accomplishment I will miss. The jokes from witty professors, the friendships, the pride that comes with achieving something I didn’t think I could. The spontaneity, the irresponsibility.. Yes, I know, those last two were a lie. Anyone who knows me will say I am anything BUT spontaneous and irresponsible. More like overachiever and psychotic perfectionist who never had any fun! Even still, it has been the most rewarding experience of my entire life. Why not go for a PhD if I love school so much? I’ve thought about it but I just know it’s not in the cards for me. My first priority is being a wife and mother, and I feel like I finally have the perfect job to be able to do that.

I will miss college life. And I will never again be a college student. Never cram for another test. Never run like heck to get to class. I guess I will have to live through Rad now.. too bad he graduates in 7 months. Do I hear MBA anyone??

This is the start of my new beginning.

Formerly a college student.

Today-A Professional.

Holding my thesis after finishing my defense

Some graduation pics...

What a difference a few years make.. from bachelors to masters
(Do not attempt to adjust your monitor- I really did gain 10 lbs in my face)

Me with my thesis chair, Dr. Channell

Yummy cake from Rad and beautiful flowers from Dad and Donna!

A play on words..or a 4th grade education? I'm gonna go with the latter.

Rad, My sweetheart.. I only hope I can show you the same patience, support and unconditional love you've given me the past two years. Halfway through my grad school when I was on the verge of breaking down, or maybe I already had, you stuck by me. You could've run and probably should've, but instead you gave me a ring.

Here's to new beginnings, ready or not.

The Scoop

2009-04-13T17:50:00.022-06:00

Here's the scoop on life lately-
Proposals, dresses, messes, presents, eggs, grubs & goodbyes.

Proposals: My baby sister Chelsie got one of these..

(Mine is the more tastefully sized ring to the left of the enormous rock!)

Which means she'll inherit one of these..

Sugar daddy??

And she'll also need one of these..

No peeking Shawn. Still on the hunt for the perfect one!

Messes: Our yard is in complete shambles after a water main ruptured 8 feet underground.

We will definitely need some of these..

But it was all fixed up quick thanks to a helpful father in law and some speedy plumbers!

Our 1st Easter together was wonderful. We enjoyed church and the sunshine. We agreed to just get one basket and buy a bunch of candy and fill the plastic eggs together. Half of the basket was mine and half was Rad's. But you know how it always goes with men and candy, after all, what's mine is Rad's. We also got each other separate little presents. I got him a tie that matches his awesome real silver and turquoise cuffs we got on our honeymoon in Mexico.

He got me this frog pillow since I love green.. and pillows. It's so soft and cute and the best part is, it folds and unfolds to suit my pillowing needs.

Eggs- We dyed eggs on Easter night. We got a surprise visit from Rad's nephews who helped us out with a few. It was so much fun.

Rad made the green and orange eggs with Indian drawings and our initials, JRC

Grub- Rad and I made an awesome Easter dinner- Smoky Jalapeno Chicken (served over glazed ham) with rice, rolls, and cranberry walnut salad

Finally.. the goodbyes-

Today was bittersweet- my last day at Timpview High and the end of an internship I have loved. I have really enjoyed teaching all my students and I truly hope and feel I have made a difference. Thanks a bunch Anine- I love you! And thank you to all my students who helped me realize my potential and made me smile each day. I hope to be back there soon acting wild and crazy with Mrs. Mack!

Last of All- Reflection of the Day
A week ago was conference weekend. Rad and I were lucky enough to go up for a session and we enjoyed beautiful temple square.

Breadwinner

2009-03-28T18:00:00.011-06:00

Truth is, I used to think the word "breadwinner" meant the wife of the house. It makes perfect sense- a stay at home mom who takes her freshly baked bread to a bake-off and wins a ribbon for the fluffiest or tastiest slice of homemade goodness.
Turns out it refers to the person making the money to put the bread on the table, and beginning next week, it will be me! I accepted a job offer. And for all those anxiously wondering which job I took, here it is- I am working in Nebo school district as a speech language pathologist. I start next Tuesday at Spanish Fork and Springville High Schools. In the fall I will begin at a brand new high school in Mapleton called Maple Mountain High. Meanwhile, Rad is finishing his finance degree and we will hopefully be joint breadwinners by next year.

Here's the new school- almost finished

There's the school out in the distance surrounded by nothing but open fields and mountains.

Here's a picture of maple mountain- my new office view perhaps.

Someday I will tell my kids- "I worked at the high school when all this land was nothing but open fields and farms." They'll laugh and tell me that I'm so old. I will cringe because they're right.

And to celebrate the green month for the last time till next year- My favorite green thing today: My homemade green drapes!

count 'em: 1.......................... 2

3 4
(Also LOVE the green pillows and IKEA painting)

And.. the reflection of the day

Lake powell/Colorado river while driving to Arizona

My Current Ailment

2009-03-21T10:07:00.026-06:00

Oh yeah, that's why I loathe spring-- It's allergy season! I took one of those tests last year where they prick your arm 60 times and inject everything imaginable and I found out that I am allergic to cedar as well as Kentucky blue grass and Elm. Here they are:

These beauties which all reside in the same valley as I, can go under the category of "Green Things I HATE!!" But in all fairness, it's actually my bodies fault, not the plants. See, the pollen floats in the air and goes up my nose. My body, however, mistakes these types of pollen as foreign invaders trying to make me sick, and it attacks them. My white blood cells start producing an army of black belt fighters and my blasophils create a bunch of inflammation and release histamines which makes me itch like crazy. The war going on inside me makes me feel terrible and it takes all my energy. If my nose only knew that all the fuss was over some harmless air particles!

But here's the current issue I'm facing this week-- Is it a cold or allergies?

I feel terrible and look deathly
Runny itchy nose
Itchy eyes
Sore throat and guck back there
Congested
All the sleep in the world isn't helping
My verdict- It's probably a combo of both, but I really can't tell. I feel this way every spring.

One thing I'll never understand though is why my outdoor seasonal allergies feel better when I go outside. The allergists I've seen all think I'm crazy. But every year I notice that walking around and enjoying the pollen-y breeze sort of alleviates the symptoms. It could just be a temporary fix, only to come down on me later with 10 times the wrath. But it's such a gorgeous day, so I think I'll go lie outside. If only I had a good book.

But on a more positive note- I've been keeping myself busy in other ways besides feeling sorry for myself. It was my day off yesterday and I made my lovely sister-in-law Taralyn a birthday cake for her sweet 16. Promise I didn't sneeze in it!

Thank you to Channing for being my friend and mentor, and teaching me what a crumb coat is, so I can make beautiful treats such as this. I still need to work on my scrolls a bit more though!

My sweet 16th birthday cake was my sister Elissa's wedding cake from the night before. It's true- Everyone forgot my birthday. Does the movie 16 candles ring a bell? Thanks Lis.
The next week mom gave me this:

I hope someday my daughters will wear it and cherish it like I did.

The green month isn't over yet though folks, so I will post another one of my favorite green things.

Favorite green thing today: My place settings/napkins. They wash nicely too, which I promise is important.

And I almost forgot...

Reflection of the day: Beautiful flower in San Diego

St Patrick's

2009-03-17T21:19:00.008-06:00

Two years ago today, on St. Patrick's day in 2007, Rad and I met. There was nothing remarkable about that day. I went to work, got home around 7, showered and fell asleep while feeling sorry for myself. You know those lonely nights where you don't want to admit you have nothing to do on a Saturday night so you just lay down on your bed to rest for a moment and you end up waking up hours later still in your clothes with the light on? Yes, it was one of those nights. I had recently been through a big break up and was fed up with dating. The words of my friend Candice from earlier that day still rang in my head. She said (knowing how completely pathetic and lonely I was), "Hey I know someone you can date. There's a guy who lives in my apartments and he is really cute. His name is Rad." I responded, "Were his parents hippies or something?" (To answer that question, read the post 2 down). The conversation ended there and I really didn't think anything would ever come of it. After all, blind dates are just BAD. Anyways, I was awaken that night by my phone ringing and I almost didn't answer because I didn't recognize the number. It was Candice. She said, "Hey, a group of us are going bowling and you should come" and she whispered, "Rad's gonna be there!" For some reason I obliged and told her they would have to wait awhile (even though it was already after 10 pm) because I had just showered and had wet hair and zero make-up.

About an hour later, I arrived at their apartment and immediately upon walking in scanned the room for my blind date, Rad. Even though I had never seen him and I didn't know a single thing about him, I picked him out effortlessly. He was a handsome guy sitting across the room smiling and looking my way. I found out sometime later that right before I walked in, he and a friend had said "This girl better be hot- she's taking forever!" We headed to the Miracle Bowl. I did find him a little odd and not exactly my type.. at least he wasn't what I was used to dating.. which turned out to be exactly my type. At the bowling alley we exchanged exactly 5 words. I asked him where he was from, to which he responded, pointing to his shirt, "Norpro." (The following is a re-enactment)
I tried to sit near him while bowling but it never really worked out. That's the problem with bowling- you stand up and loose your spot. I did manage to give him a few high fives after strikes though. At some point I started break dancing which might have frightened him a bit. You'll have to ask him. After bowling, we all went back to the apartments and watched a movie. Although we sat next to each other, I couldn't help but feel like he was avoiding me like the plague. At the end of the night, I found it kind of strange that my date never got my number or really even talked to me. It was only later that I found out that he had no idea we were being set up. He thought I was just some random girl tagging along. I am actually grateful for that though, because it allowed him to be himself. Rad hates being set up (especially these days) and he would've acted extremely awkward if he had known I was sizing him up for marriage. He too was going through a difficult break up and it was good to take it slow. He did eventually get my number and call me... although that is a story for another day.
Here's us in our green. Rad is wearing a polo I bought him a year and a half ago, for only the second time cause he secretly hates it. Someone please tell him it looks nice! I bought those ears from the dollar store and am obsessed with them. Don't worry I'm putting them away until next year! I love green therefore I love St. Patty's. I'm truly sorry to all the Irish for turning it into our secular mockery of a holiday. I guess it's kinda like non-religious people celebrating Christmas!

My favorite Green item of the day in Lieu of The Green Month- My amazing Green Apple Kitchen Aid.

Reflection of the Day: Flying above the jungles of Mexico

Sib Stories

2009-03-14T10:35:00.024-06:00

Long before I met my Rad, there was my rad family. I love and cherish you all, even when it's hard to show. Don't worry, I know you love me too.
Here's a summary:

2 parents- One talented, giving, patient mother struggling to not pull all her hair out. One tender, hardworking father trying to find his place among all the "new" responsibilities

5 lovely sisters who (today at least) would do anything for each other

5 tough but sensitive brothers just trying to make it through another day

As of Today: (The following is subject to change as families constantly do)

7 have a spouse (soon to be more!)

7 have children (that I know of), There are 31-ish children between them all (I have been an auntie since age 5)

1 CRAZY family

Did we fight-- Of course, Hold a grudge-- no way. In the end all we had was each other. I'm talking about the end of her life. We held on with hope, faith, and laughter. I see us all slowly becoming who she hoped we would be, but more importantly, who we want to be. So I wanted to jot down some memories as they came to me. It's amazing how we can all laugh at them now!

So many stories to rehearse... I guess I'll start with this one. My brothers, either Chad or Ryan, had some friends who used to "relieve" themselves on the side of the house. On one occasion, I couldn't have been older than 8, I happened to go to my favorite play spot on the side of the house only to have a chance encounter with one of these fellows. I'm pretty sure he was so shocked he quickly put it away and made a mess on his plaid shorts. I proceeded to tell him that I was telling on him for ruining our purple flowers. Of course mom wasn't happy about it either. I recall her marching out there and using the term "animal" and reminding him that we do have restrooms inside the house.

My brothers were all very fond of hanging out with their friends in a spot up near the mailbox although I'm not sure why, out of all the places or houses they could "hang out," they chose our mailbox. Sometimes it seemed like they were having full on parties with half the high school up there. Anyways, I always loved to sing although I never was very good. One night when I was about 9, Chad was hanging out with some friends in their spot and he asked me to come out and sing to them. I was probably spying on them anyways. I wouldn't put it above me-- I LOVED to tattle. Anyways I came out and they all stood around the truck and listened to me sing Selena, Dreaming of you. Talk about a bunch of pansies.

Don't worry, I have plenty more where this came from for all those that I failed to embarrass today! I love you all and wish we were all together right now. What do ya say we meet up at that old gray mailbox on McClelland? I'll bring the wacky cake, Jenny- bring mom's brownies, Chelsie- bring the lemon bars, Logan- you bring the peanut butter cookies. For heaven's sake someone bring some meatloaf and the rest of you, make one of those giant "dining room wall" signs.

Here we all are: Tiffany, Jenny, Shane, Spencer, Chad, Ryan, Logan, Elissa, Jessica, Chelsie (click pic to enlarge)

And again with Dad (click to enlarge)

And for the Month of March- My fav green item of the day:
My Laundry Room counter tops and retro floor

Reflection of the day: Spring is creeping up on Utah- Creep quicker already, it's mid-march! I took this one driving south on I-15 headed to vegas

Rad

2009-03-12T22:29:00.026-06:00

I recall a conversation between Rad and I that went something like this.

Did you ever get made fun of for your awesomely strange name?
Yeah, all the time. But I would just tell people my parents were hippies and I had two sisters named sunshine and waterfall.
Hmm, you sure showed them. So what's the story behind the name?
My full name is Jonathan Rad Clark. I was named after 2 family friends, Jonathan and Radavon Vusucivich, who are brothers, from Serbia-Montenegro. This may also be a good time to tell you that we have to name one of our sons after their father, Risto.
Alright then, but I'm picking the rest of the names.

A name is just a name after all, and it's the spirit inside that brings it to life. So whether it's Rad, Radley, Radavon, J. Rad, Radical, Radica (a hybrid of our names) or any of the other nicknames, to me, he's just sweety, sweet pea, honey and lover... no matter what.

Rad, little Rad, and Jon

I am posting a picture of one of my favorite green items every day this month to celebrate St. Patty's. I will also post a picture or "reflection" of the day every time I make a post using pictures I've taken to celebrate all the fun and interesting things I've seen and done over the years. Enjoy!

My favorite giant bowl I painted at my first trip to color me mine way back on one of our first dates

Reflection of the Day: Gorgeous pink flamingos at the zoo- the ones that are really pink eat more shrimp, its true!

Green

2009-03-11T17:10:00.008-06:00

So I may not be all that "green" in the environmental sense (In my defense I do try to recycle and I don't purposely litter) but I am addicted to the color. I see in green, I think in green.. It's my inspiration. It gives me energy and life. It makes me smile. My house is a shrine to it in fact. Don't believe me? Ask my sweet husband Rad. He has very patiently put up with my green fetish, although I secretly think he hopes I will outgrow it sooner or later.

Why green? First off, I love trees, grass, nature. I may end up living in the desolate land of Arizona someday, so I am taking in all the green I can right now... not that I am dissing rock lawns or anything. I Grew up in perfectly sunny, warm and green Southern California, hearing my mom say each morning, "What a gorgeous day!" That was her though--enjoyed every moment of her too short life. I on the other hand took for granted the monotonous perfection of each sunrise and sunset. I sure do appreciate it now. I have lived in Utah for the past 7 years and sure it's great, it's even green, but the summers are too hot and the winters are too cold and don't tell me you don't know what I'm talking about. Still beautiful though. A ten minute drive and I'm hiking underneath waterfalls, in 15 minutes I'm on the slopes in wintry heaven, and of course, nothing beats the 5 minutes to the I-15, one of the only freeways in Utah. So beat that California.............................I guess I am a little bit green.
My Beautiful, green laptop. The very thing I am typing on right now.