Fun With Wylee

You're the One

Quick wrap-up:

How could I forget to write about Emmitt Otter?????? Jon and I finally watched it on New Year's Eve day. How is it possible we've found each other and that we both love this movie?? It was meant to be, as Hanz said during our ceremony. We sent one to Hanz and Family for Christmas, but haven't heard a report back on it. I'll have to make a phone call...

We redeemed our voucher for free Penn and Teller tickets and last night was our show. We had a great time, and who can beat free???? Something different, lots of laugh. Great show.

I do realize I love TV. I watch too much and get easily addicted to new shows and have a slew of shows that I "have to watch". Well, my life just got a little simpler. We finally got a DVR!!!!! Okay, let me rephrase - we finally got a DVR we could get to work!!! Heather actually got me a TiVo last year, but we could never make it work at our place because we don't have a home phone number. Soooo.... since Cox offers one at only $10/month, it was a must to have as the new TV season starts up and I start school at the end of the month. Woohooo!!! Sooooo exciting. Well, for me at least... but I think Jon will love it once he gets to watch all of his games and Discovery shows whenever he wants.

And one final item. Don and Jane gave us a fun puzzle of Las Vegas in our batch of Christmas goodies. We finished it in a couple days - 3 sessions to be exact. Pictures of our progress below. It has led us to purchase 2 more puzzles mostly because they were on sale. I'm not sure we have the time to dedicate to any more right now since our lives were basically put on hold while we were working. Kinda sad.

Apple Cake!

The second try at Nanny's apple cake this year was successful. Enough so that I made two of them! And as good as it is hot right out of the oven, Jon says it's always better the second day after the apples' juices have a chance to sort of permeate through it. I have to agree with him.

Whispering

We've decided to use some of the Dog Whisperer's techniques in trying to get our dogs a little bit more respectful in some areas. Of course Sarge is pretty much the perfect dog except when it comes to OTHER dogs. He can't stand them and it's always a struggle on walks when we encounter other furry friends. Wylee is not exactly the most friendly pup either, but will submit a lot easier than Sarge will. Not to mention the fact that Sarge is 5 times bigger and 3 times stronger (yeah, Wylee's pretty strong :) ).

It's been a little difficult for them - and us. But with plenty of practice and consistency, we're sure we can make it happen for both of them. It basically comes down to them becoming submissive and realizing we are their pack leaders. And it also involves US realizing we are their pack leaders. Not as easy as it sounds, but we're confident we can make it happen!

Here's Sarge looking at us and seeming to say "oh yeah? We'll see who the pack leader is around here!!"

A whole lotta nuthin'

The past few days have been WONDERFUL for Jon and I. I had a 4 day weekend after deciding to take Friday off for what I considered a much-deserved break. Jon had Saturday off, so we've spent the past 3 days just hanging out with nothing to do.

A huge blessing for myself has been that the pain and discomfort I've been experiencing due to indigestion has all but gone away. The only explanation is that it was due to stress at work - and there's been plenty of that for me the past 8 weeks or so. Jon had me start a cycle of Prilosec and I tried my best to stay away from spicy or acidic foods for 2 weeks. I feel 100 times better - I am SO thankful! It's been the perfect medicine this weekend to have a whole lotta nuthin' to do. I have no idea what to expect out of work the next few weeks, but nothing could be as bad as the last 2 in particular.... right????

Friday I accomplished the only goal I had set for myself for the weekend which was to take down all of the Christmas decorations. I was correct in my prediction that I was READY to have all the stuff gone as soon as possible after Christmas. It was enough. I went to the movies and did a ton of laundry. Nothing too exciting, but wonderful to have time to do on a day off.

Saturday Jon woke up and took the dogs for a run. He's gotten into the habit of taking BOTH dogs and assures me that Wylee and his little legs do just fine on the longs treks. Jon's already lost a bit of weight and is happy to see his pants fitting easier. He loses weight so easily, it's sickening. We treated ourselves to a fun lunch at Islands but pretty much did nothing for the rest of the day except continue to clean the house. Texas played that day, and though it wasn't a guaranteed win early on in the game, Texas came through, which allowed Jon to be in a great mood. Our neighbors came over for a visit that night and she helped me work on my admission paperwork for the University of Phoenix. My class will start January 31st! I just need to decide for certain on a major.

Sunday we woke up and watched Harvest online. We have to get out and start looking for another church but it's hard to get motivated. We took yet another day to do as little as possible except for watch a few movies and get In-n-Out as our last meal of 2006. We watched the Times Square celebrations, then switched over for local Strip coverage. We love where we live because it has allowed us to go out the past two years to the sidewalk in front of our unit and watch the fireworks go off from at least 4 of the casinos. Fun stuff. Oh yeah, and I beat Jon at Trivial Pursuit Pop Culture 2... AGAIN. :) He put up a fair fight, though.

Today Jon made a great big breakfast which was such a treat and very very yummy. And a tradition in my house growing up was always the Rose Parade. I'm a little disappointed in the options for coverage where we're at - all the networks just want to plug their shows and constantly show commercials. I miss KTLA!!! Thankfully the Travel Channel showed an extensive pre-show done by KTLA along with the same broadcast and hosts I'm used to seeing. Even though it was the encore broadcast and I still had to put up with commercials... it was better than nothing. Love the Rose Parade. And we took the opportunity of our day off to go to Bed, Bath, and Beyond and use our gift certificates so we could buy our new pots and pans. And man, are we glad we waited! The set Jon wanted offered a free $50 pan with purchase and with our coupons, store credit and gift cards, we were able to buy a few additional items and only paid $1.47!!!!!!! We love it when that happens!!!!

Currently, we are sitting here watching USC beat Michigan in the Rose Bowl. It's the 3rd quarter and I have every confidence in my team. My USC sweatshirt should probably be laid to rest very very soon, so it would be nice for this season to go out with a bang. Then I can treat myself to a new "Rose Bowl Champions" sweatshirt! (And maybe Wylee, too!) :)

Happy New Year!

Today is the first day of 2007 - whew, time has flown!!! We had quite a year! I'm planning on writing a belated family "Year in Review" letter to send out in a couple of weeks - anticipating some news in mid-January that will kick start that letter. But before that, here's a list of just a few things that happened in 2006:

1. February - Jon and Sarge picked up and moved to Las Vegas! Of course, the road trip on the way was half the fun of getting here. 24 hours of driving was not the highlight, but Holly was most excited to stop in Winslow, Arizona on the way!

2. May - We're engaged! Jon asked me to marry him and we promptly set a date to be married in Las Vegas 10 weeks later. Just enough time for everyone to make their plans to come into town. We didn't get too many complaints, though since we had changed our minds and scrapped our original plans to elope ALONE in Antigua.

3. July - We're married! We had the perfect small backyard ceremony. Low in stress, high in fun and friends. We felt so blessed God had brought us each other and had the perfect day to celebrate that.

And PLENTY of other big news along the way, including Jon's college football team (University of Texas) beating Holly's team (USC) in the championship game at the beginning of the year, a few illnesses, a trip to the emergency room for both Jon and Sarge, a lot of fun shows and concerts, and best of all lots of laughs.

What a year 2006 was. We're not sure how we can top it in 2007, but we're sure going to have fun trying!!!

Merry Christmas!

I have a lot of catching up to do! We were both sick last week - Jon stayed home from work and I came home early one day. We've both slowly recovered. Just in time to head to California to celebrate an early Christmas at my sister's place on Saturday. Our family pulls names, so it was fun to see what we all got from whoever had us. Jon got his new razor and Band of Brother DVD set he had wished for from Kevin. I got a fantastic pink candle and Old Navy gift card from Fred- woohoo! Does it get any better? Of course Camden was overwhelmed with all the presents he got from Mimi and Poppy and Auntie Holly and Jon Jon.

Mom and Fred left to head back home and the rest of us headed over to the Irvine Spectrum to get out of the house and try to get Camden to burn some energy. He got to ride the carousel with dad and Auntie Holly and Mom took him on the "big wheel" much to Dad's horror. We made it through safely, and Camden did a great job of making Auntie feel at ease-- especially at the high parts. And I found out today he told Kevin's mom that I was scared and I cried. Funny kid. We came home and said goodnight to Camden and the four of us played one of my gifts to Wendy - Trivial Pursuit 80's edition. Finally the girls were redeemed after their sorry loss to the boys at the last game (I Love the 80's) because we kicked their butts!!! My advice to anyone looking for a rematch: Don't mess with the Winslow gals and their 80's music knowledge. Finally a use for all of that stuff stuck in my head!

We got to sleep in the next day and said our goodbyes and had lunch with Hedder. Jon was thrilled that she gave us a gift card for Bed, Bath and Beyond so he could put it towards a new set of pots and pans that we've been waiting to get. yay! Then we went over to Harvest for the 4:00 Christmas Eve service and really enjoyed being there at a familiar place that felt like home - for me at least. Great to see Hanz and Debbie and their girls... along with everyone else of course! Made the drive safely home and picked up the pups and came home and CRASHED.

I was so excited for Christmas this morning that I woke up and could not fall back asleep, so I woke Jon up--and I've been exhausted all day! We opened presents - he got me a gorgeous "right hand ring" just like the kind I was looking at when I was looking at engagement rings. We need to get it sized and I can't wait to get it on! I made Nanny's apple cake this morning, but it wasn't exactly right because I used whole wheat flour in an effort to be a little more health conscious. Doesn't work and I need to re-make because you can't skimp on things like Nanny's apple cake. :) I'll try again this weekend, though Jon said this batch was just fine. (It wasn't). We love to go see the Belagio's conservatory decorations, so we got dressed and headed down there. It was awe-inspiring as usual, and from there we headed to Lake Las Vegas to see the Christmas decorations. Not much to see there as just about everything was closed, but it was still a great outing. And that's been pretty much our day!! Mostly enjoying the day off.

Last week we received our gifts from Jon's parents, which they asked us to open early so we could enjoy them. We discovered gift cards to Target, Buca di Beppo, AND Bed, Bath, and Beyond - which guarantees we have enough to look for a nice set of pots and pans. Such a blessing and we're looking forward to treating ourselves thanks to them. Along with a huge puzzle of Las Vegas that is guaranteed to begin as soon as the Christmas decorations are put away and we have a little more room. Can't wait!!

I've been putting in a ton of hours at work and Jon had an exciting week last week (great news!!! - hopefully more information on that SOON!) so we're pretty exhausted these days.

We hope everyone had a fun Christmas like we've had. And of course we must remember what Christmas is all about and celebrate the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. The greatest gift of ALL. Tons of pictures posted below. Enjoy!

Camden and Kevin on the carousel. Camden was VERY focused.

Sisters!! She's getting a belly finally!!

Soon to be big brother and mommy.


Cute guy at the Bellagio.


That tree was amazing surrounded by TONS of poinsettas.




At Lake Las Vegas.

Looks like a real Italian street!

Birthday Boy!

Yesterday was Jon's 31st birthday! I tried to make the day very special and memorable for him. Unfortunately for him he had to work in the morning (7am - yuck!). But fortunately FOR ME it allowed me a few hours in the morning to arrange for a few special surprises.

Because we celebrated with Brad Paisley last week, I didn't get him anything big and exciting. But I DID get him his own "Stinky" (feather pillow) so that he would stop stealing mine every night! :) I think he liked it. I also surprised him with a ton of balloons and his very own cupcake cake all decorated for him. He was tired, so we took a nap, then got up and got ready to go where he requested to go for his birthday: The Rio buffet! He's so easy to please! We stuffed ourselves pretty good, then wobbled out and drove to Red Rock to catch a movie. But we got there a little late, so we killed 2 hours people watching and trying to continue to digest our dinner so we could sit through the movie comfortably. We saw "The Holiday" and really liked it. Very cute movie.

All-in-all, I think it was a fun day for him! You know, except for the working part. It was the first birthday of his we got to spend together, so I tried to make the most of it. Pics below!!


With his hat! Hadn't shaved yet....


Cupcake Cake. He's 31, not 37. It's a 1, I swear.


Cute.

Make a wish!


At the buffet with his favorite meal - dessert!


At Red Rock, waiting for our movie to start and for our bellies to deflate!

Sneezing, Playing Dress-up, and Silly Sarge

I came down with a good bout of allergies beginning on Sunday. It's actually a mild case compared to what I've dealt with in the past, but apparently living in Vegas for a over a year now is beginning to strengthen me a little bit. I still feel like my brain is leaking out my nose and probably by tomorrow I will be ready to trade in my nose for a new one that is not red and raw. I feel pretty good for the most part - just congested and sinus pressure which makes me sleepy. Hopefully I start feeling better soon. I really hate waking up with a sore throat after having to breathe through my mouth all night.

Saturday night was my company's Christmas party. it was at Red Rock Resort, which we really love. We had a fun time, and as always, Jon was a good sport while we spent time with all the people I work with. Of course, he got to touch base with a few people he used to work with as well. And he LOVED the food. Here is a picture of us from the night:




Here are a couple of pictures of Sarge being a weirdo. We know how much Don loves these pictures.



This is one of Sarge's favorite places to lay. We're not sure why he loves to stick his head under the bed, but it apparently makes him happy.


Sarge sat in this position for a few minutes. It looks as though he's about to lie down but he got stuck. And that's how he stayed. Weirdo.

Baby, you are the world

Jon's birthday is Saturday. We don't have any real plans, except to spend the remainder of the day together after he gets off work. The rotation of Saturdays wasn't kind to him, so he's got to wake up early on his big day.

We did get to celebrate 9 days early. I treated Jon to go see Brad Paisley, aka "My Man" as Jon calls him. My favorite thing about getting him the tickets was when I was asking questions about who he might want to see if we went to a show for his birthday. I said "there are tickets I want to buy you for your birthday, but I want to make sure you really want to go because they're kind of expensive." His response was, "is it like, Brad Paisley big, or what?" I couldn't believe he used it as a comparison to determine if he'd want to go, so I blurted "well, it IS Brad Paisley". So that was that.

We had a really great time. Until I met Jon, I hadn't listened to country since high school. I've mostly enjoyed getting back into it, though it's still weird to me. Brad's music is great and his live show is a lot of fun. And a bonus for BOTH of us was that Carrie Underwood opened the show! She sings AMAZING live, I couldn't stop being impressed by her.

It was a late night on a work day for us, but well worth it. Fun to do something different and to celebrate Jon's birthday doing something he really loved. By my calculation, his birthday has already lasted about 3 weeks and it hasn't even happened yet! I hope he keeps that in mind next time mine rolls around. :)

The big 3-6!!!

This big congratulations is a week overdue but I still want to acknowledge the 36 years of marriage of Don and Jane Hanes!!!! It was officially a week ago on November 22nd. Unfortunately I don't think it was a wonderful celebration due to Don's root canal, but it doesn't make the date any less significant. And we hope to see them soon!!!




Speaking of anniversaries, today is mine and Jon's 4-month anniversary as a married couple! I realize we have all sorts of silly dates we recognize as "anniversaries" but 4 months ago today we said our "I do"s and committed our lives to each other forever and ever. We look forward to celebrating 36 years together like Don and Jane... minus the root canal, hopefully.

Birthday Boys

Today is Thanksgiving and we have SO MUCH to be thankful for. We had a wonderful day full of all the usual eating, laughing and football. Camden is at an age where he is so hilarious and says the funniest things. It's such a fun time.

Last night we celebrated both Jon and Camden's birthdays a little early while we were all together. Jon got a birthday pie (pecan) with candles, and Camden got a very delicious chocolate cake. Though when told to "blow", he blew his nose instead of his mouth. Easy mistake when you're 2.

Both boys had fun opening their presents, though there was a little more screaming and jumping up and down on Camden's part. Poor Jon is faced with sharing his birthday with our favorite little boy, but he proved himself very selfless and gracious and willing to share the spotlight. Plus he got pecan pie!

Fun time had by all! Though we wanted Camden to wait until the morning to open one of his games that was going to take quite some time to set up, so we snuck it away when he was distracted by something else. It brought a few of us to laugh to the point of tears when he kept turning around looking for that other box, seemingly saying to himself "but I know there was another one!! It was right there a minute ago...!" His little 2 year old memory is pretty good, we had to admit.

And it's not until right now as I'm posting pictures that I realize we didn't even take one of the birthday boys together. Heck, we didn't even take one of Jon.... At least I have his actual birthday to make up for it in a couple weeks.

Our Boys

Since we don't have kids, our worlds revolve around the dogs. Seems they've been extra-entertaining lately. Which could also translate to higher maintenance. Sarge still has the occasional accident in the house and the times he does prove to have no logic, so we've almost stopped trying to figure it out. We endured a bit of drama this week with trying to find Wylee a new bed. With new couches arriving on Saturday, sleeping on the couch is no longer an option for the boys - even if it was never an option to begin with, it's out of the question now. Wylee's second favorite spot is UNDER Sarge's bed, which leaves Sarge no other logical option (according to him) but the couch... and round and round we go... Never did I think buying a dog a bed would be such an ordeal. The only thing I can compare it to is the story my stepdad tells of taking his son to go buy a new "wubby" (blanket), where they had to "test" each and every blanket based on how it felt and fit in his tiny hand. The same goes for Wylee and how he determines comfort and fit. We've tried 3 and failed miserably each time. Though we have gotten some good laughs with each attempt watching him try to squeeze himself into a bed we thought was plenty big as we stood in the aisle discussing the pros and cons. For full disclosure, I must say that we might have found a few beds Wylee would have found completely suitable, but they did not pass the Jon and Holly test of ugliness. The saga continues.... Included in the slideshow below are a couple of shots of Wylee trying to act comfortable in a bed we chose. Luckily for Wylee, we've saved the receipt and it is being returned.... We've also snapped a few of Sarge's alternative choices for sleeping spots. And, just because, we had a little fun with the pups today and got a good snapshot of Cooper's ears flipped over. It was hilarious at the time, and the picture still makes me laugh. If I could get Wylee to sit still enough for me to get a good shot of him, I'd post one of his ears, too. One day...

Our Boys' Slideshow

Ornamental

I have an ornament party I'm going to on Sunday night. Everyone must make 15 ornaments and they must be handmade. I am very proud of myself that I used no kit or pre-made anything. And that the idea came completely from my mostly uncreative brain. And I think they're pretty cute!!

Bingo Was His Name-o

I played bingo for the first time last weekend. I didn't win anything, but we had fun with the dobber and the dogs.

Midweek madness

This week has been a rough one for us all. I've been filling in for someone who's on unexpected medical leave indefinitely, working lots of overtime (yay, extra cash - boo, super tired). I'm spent and super stressed trying to get through each day with little direction on what to do for her job. Next Friday in my department is known as "Golden Friday" with the biggest shopping day of the year for Retail. Lots of activities and craziness going on, so no rest in my future.

Jon's work has slowed down a little and he was granted his 3-month raise. He's doing well there still, yet looking ahead to what's next. We have my Holiday Gala to look forward to next weekend at Red Rock. We always love going there and I got my dress on sale last weekend (gotta love 75% off!) so that is something fun to look forward to.

We thought Sarge was making progress, but he regressed one day this week, leaving me TWO surprises mid-day. Still trying to figure out what it is that's making him use the living room as his personal toilet but haven't gotten very far. Just lavishing cookies on the both of them when they go outside. Frustrating, to say the least.

Next week is Thanksgiving and we both have to work every day but Thursday. But Kevin, Wendy and Camden are coming in on Tuesday (yay!). I wish I could be off at least one day so I could spend more time... we'll see! Not planning on baking too much this year (yet!), but we'll be celebrating Jon and Camden's birthday Wednesday night so that will be nice. We may try to squeeze in the Switchfoot show after Camden goes to bed but I think we'll have to play that by ear. It would be nice to see Drew again, so I'm sure we'll make it down there at some point.

Life seems crazy these days and will only get crazier with the holidays, I think. I'm considering pulling out the decorations this weekend but I'm not sure I can stand them for 5+ weeks. Last year I was ready to put everything away the day after Christmas. I looooooove Christmas. But I love having my house put back together, too.

'til next time!

Cars, Jars, and National Parks



I'm a little behind in updating this blog, so I'm going to give a quick recap. I had every intention of updating last weekend after our couple of days of fun. But life has kind of gotten in the way this week.

Last Friday night I raced home from work, took care of the pups, then raced down to meet Jon at work so we could zoom over to Mandalay Bay to catch Jars of Clay at the House of Blues. I had purchased the tix a few months ago because they were cheap and they're a band we really like. It was a good show and great music. And overall a great time just to get out and do something different.

Saturday morning we woke up early, loaded up the pups and some roadtrip snacks, and began the drive up to Zion National Park. It was a beautiful drive and we enjoyed making our way up there. It's an incredible place, and we are looking forward to going back. We took a few wrong turns and ended up taking "the long way" there, but now we know for next time and hopefully we'll get to spend a little bit more time. I became a little "car crazy" by the end of the day. The dogs had a blast taking a dip in the river, sticking their noses in gopher holes, and getting stickers in their feet-- (okay, so maybe that last part wasn't so fun) and were completely exhausted for the drive home.







As for "cars", Jon and I went to the SEMA show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. It's a HUGE trade show of car stuff. Everything you could ever want. Jon and I both took the morning off work and went downt here and walked around for a couple hours. I mostly followed and watched Jon look around and drool over all the fun stuff. I did enjoy seeing the new Civic Jon has told me about. It's pretty cute.




All in all, a great couple of days. It was a sad ending with the news of Lucy, but each day gets easier. It's been a week now and we still miss her like crazy.

Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds....


Little Lucy has finally been relieved of her pain. She has been suffering quietly for who knows how long, and today she finally feels pain-free for the first time in a long time. She has always been "the good dog" and wants nothing more than a warm lap and all the affection you can spare. She's a very brave little pup and has aged twice her years the last two weeks. To say it was a hard goodbye this morning is an understatement. She will be missed for a very long time and it will be a hard adjustment without her around. Sweet, sweet girl.

It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood....

And another day with nothing too exciting to report. Jon has been diligently working on his assignments for his 2nd class. It's a lot of work, but will be so worth it in the end. And he's doing such a great job on his work--despite how boring the class and material is. I'm very proud of him.

Last week Wendy and Camden were in town. I was fortunate enough to take a day off of work to spend with them. Unfortunately, our big outing of the day was the pumpkin patch and it turned out to be a bummer. It was way too windy, so the rides were a no-go. In fact, they shut the place down as we left. But we had a great couple of days as always. And, as always, Auntie Holly took tons and tons of pics. Camden is getting the hang of this "melting Auntie's heart" thing just by saying my name... "An-tee Howwy" Too precious. Every time I see him, I'm amazed at how much he can talk and what he has to say. He even told me a story. It went something like this.... "One day. Window. Trash truck. Backwards. beep, beep, beep..." Such a great story. (He's obsessed with trash trucks). And the kid is in love with "Jon Jon". Proof being that the first night Jon walked in, Camden looked at him for a second, then shouted "JON JON!!". Mind you, he had had no encouragement from any of us about who he was, and he hadn't seen Jon Jon since the wedding, 3 1/2 months prior. Camden also couldn't wait to show Jon Jon his new Halloween costume, and even raced to put his (very hot) boxing gloves on. Too cute, that kid.

Sarge had a rough week with using the living room carpet as a toilet this week. We're pretty sure he was upset with us about something, so we've tried very hard to make him a happy pup again. So far, so good. Wylee's eyes are still a bit weepy, but I think they're getting better. I'm trying my best to keep the place vacuumed and dusted in order to aleviate everyone's allergies a little bit. Today was an exciting day of deep cleaning one of the sofas that Sarge has taken to. After today, no more Sarge on the sofa.... even though he's not allowed in the first place. We've walked in on him on more than a few occasions curled up on it. Oh well... he's hairy. It gets EVERYWHERE. I'm trying to accept it and move on.....

It might take a little more time.

We've got our four pumpkins, (2 big, 2 small) but nothing more in the way of Halloween/Thanksgiving decorations. I'll try to work on that. Almost time to bring out my cinnamon and spice candles! yay! I love Christmas time.

I haven't been experimenting with new recipes like I should be as a newlywed. Most times it seems as though cooking with all the fancy things is just more expensive than buying it pre-made. I'm still trying to fall in love with cooking... That will also take a little more time. But Jon hasn't had too many complaints with anything yet. As long as I keep the cupboard stocked with the generic sugar-free fruit punch powder mix that he says reminds him of the Vacation Bible School punch, then he's a happy camper. So easy to please. Lucky me!

I suppose our only bit of excitement is Folicle News. Due to an incident with his clippers dying, Jon bic'd his head. I hadn't seen him like that in a long time, so it was quite a surprise. And me, being a dutiful wife wanting to please my husband, dyed my hair blonde after he told me he liked me better that way. Worked out nicely with my sister being in town since she is the only person I will let touch my hair--much to her dismay, I'm sure. She did a fabulous job as always and thankfully Jon is very happy to have me blonde again.

Til next time!

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

We're up!

Welcome to our webpage! I promise to try to keep this updated as often as there is something interesting to post... and sometimes when there's nothing interesting to report.

Well, we've been married 2 1/2 months now. I've officially changed my name to "Hanes" everywhere from my Drivers License to my paychecks. Somehow doesn't seem fair that the women have to do all the work in changing their name. I think I support the "both sides changing their names" idea more and more. But it's all worth it!

Our entertainment at home is the dogs. Our "children". Whether it's Wylee constantly trying to get on our laps, or us vying to be the one Sarge chooses to give a lick to (it's always Jon). There's never really a dull moment. Our latest enjoyment has been watching the two dogs figure out ways to distract the other away from the bone chew toy. Sarge even plays "fetch" just to get Wylee to run after something, so then he can turn around and lay down with the bone while Wylee is still chasing the ball or whatever it is... The oddest part of this ritual is that the plastic bone has been laying around the house for months and months practically untouched. Yet now it's become hot property and the thing both of them want most of all. Very strange. Hope you enjoy the slideshow above!

Last night we had a great birthday dinner to celebrate my 28th. Friends, family and great food. What else do you need??? Went home with big stomach aches.

Ketchup

Time to play catch up on all that is going on.

Little Holly is here!!!! Holly Maria Devine was born on Tuesday, September 12 at 4:50am. She made her entrance weighing 6 pounds, 14 ounces, looking exactly like her daddy! I couldn't be more excited even if I tried. I got to meet her on Saturday and she is the sweetest little girl. Pictures coming soon...

This weekend also provided the opportunity to hang out with The Thumb and it was absolutely wonderful. I did my best to hang on to the title of "Funnest Auntie" by bringing gifts that he had a great time with. Took tons of pics and videos, which I'm sure will also be posted soon. Such a smart little man who knows so much at 21 months. Amazing. He must get it from ME!

I think I'm officially finished changing my name. One more credit card and various mailing lists I think is all that's left. But at least DMV and Social Security know who I am now!!!!

Brian got to go see Dave at The Gorge and I didn't. Whatever, Brian.

Jon and I celebrated our one-year anniversary of meeting each other/being a couple with an "Anniversary Extravaganza Weekend". It was over the Labor Day weekend and Friday night we treated ourselves (with the help of a gift certificate) to dinner at Mix at the top of THE hotel at Mandalay Bay. Fancy shmancy and very yummy. Then we went to Jon's night of the weekend to go see Ron White. Hilarious, even if it was his second show of the night and he was already pretty wasted. Saturday night was my night, and we went and saw "Love" by Cirque du Soleil which was absolutely amazing and so much fun. I think my favorite was "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". It's a don't-miss.

Jon's back in school, getting further on his Criminal Justice major. Yay! Some fun things in the not-too-distant future for him that we're really excited about. I'll keep you posted!

We're having a great time. Yes, marriage has its ups and downs, even after only 1 month-and-a-half of being hitched.... But it's a wonderful ride and I wouldn't trade it for the world.



Even if he does like me better blonde.

Ketchup

Time to play catch up on all that is going on.

Little Holly is here!!!! Holly Maria Devine was born on Tuesday, September 12 at 4:50am. She made her entrance weighing 6 pounds, 14 ounces, looking exactly like her daddy! I couldn't be more excited even if I tried. I got to meet her on Saturday and she is the sweetest little girl. Pictures coming soon...

This weekend also provided the opportunity to hang out with The Thumb and it was absolutely wonderful. I did my best to hang on to the title of "Funnest Auntie" by bringing gifts that he had a great time with. Took tons of pics and videos, which I'm sure will also be posted soon. Such a smart little man who knows so much at 21 months. Amazing. He must get it from ME!

I think I'm officially finished changing my name. One more credit card and various mailing lists I think is all that's left. But at least DMV and Social Security know who I am now!!!!

Brian got to go see Dave at The Gorge and I didn't. Whatever, Brian.

Jon and I celebrated our one-year anniversary of meeting each other/being a couple with an "Anniversary Extravaganza Weekend". It was over the Labor Day weekend and Friday night we treated ourselves (with the help of a gift certificate) to dinner at Mix at the top of THE hotel at Mandalay Bay. Fancy shmancy and very yummy. Then we went to Jon's night of the weekend to go see Ron White. Hilarious, even if it was his second show of the night and he was already pretty wasted. Saturday night was my night, and we went and saw "Love" by Cirque du Soleil which was absolutely amazing and so much fun. I think my favorite was "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". It's a don't-miss.

Jon's back in school, getting further on his Criminal Justice major. Yay! Some fun things in the not-too-distant future for him that we're really excited about. I'll keep you posted!

We're having a great time. Yes, marriage has its ups and downs, even after only 1 month-and-a-half of being hitched.... But it's a wonderful ride and I wouldn't trade it for the world.



Even if he does like me better blonde.

Ketchup

Time to play catch up on all that is going on.

Little Holly is here!!!! Holly Maria Devine was born on Tuesday, September 12 at 4:50am. She made her entrance weighing 6 pounds, 14 ounces, looking exactly like her daddy! I couldn't be more excited even if I tried. I got to meet her on Saturday and she is the sweetest little girl. Pictures coming soon...

This weekend also provided the opportunity to hang out with The Thumb and it was absolutely wonderful. I did my best to hang on to the title of "Funnest Auntie" by bringing gifts that he had a great time with. Took tons of pics and videos, which I'm sure will also be posted soon. Such a smart little man who knows so much at 21 months. Amazing. He must get it from ME!

I think I'm officially finished changing my name. One more credit card and various mailing lists I think is all that's left. But at least DMV and Social Security know who I am now!!!!

Brian got to go see Dave at The Gorge and I didn't. Whatever, Brian.

Jon and I celebrated our one-year anniversary of meeting each other/being a couple with an "Anniversary Extravaganza Weekend". It was over the Labor Day weekend and Friday night we treated ourselves (with the help of a gift certificate) to dinner at Mix at the top of THE hotel at Mandalay Bay. Fancy shmancy and very yummy. Then we went to Jon's night of the weekend to go see Ron White. Hilarious, even if it was his second show of the night and he was already pretty wasted. Saturday night was my night, and we went and saw "Love" by Cirque du Soleil which was absolutely amazing and so much fun. I think my favorite was "Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds". It's a don't-miss.

Jon's back in school, getting further on his Criminal Justice major. Yay! Some fun things in the not-too-distant future for him that we're really excited about. I'll keep you posted!

We're having a great time. Yes, marriage has its ups and downs, even after only 1 month-and-a-half of being hitched.... But it's a wonderful ride and I wouldn't trade it for the world.



Even if he does like me better blonde.

These Boots Were Made for Walkin'

I splurged on a pair of $50 sandals on Sunday at the Rack. I would normally NEVER do this, but they were super comfortable and I could get by with wearing them at work, even though they were technically flip flops. And I always need comfy black sandals, so I justified it by saying they were a "good investment".

Everything was fine... until we went to Target (my favorite store ever) and I found a pair of equally as comfy black sandals for $4.50. I kid you not. 4 dollars and 50 cents for an even BETTER pair of shoes - no flip flop resemblance.

Needless to say, I'm taking the $50 pair back.

Oh yeah, and I went back to Target and bought 2 more pair. Can't beat clearance, baby!!!

These Boots Were Made for Walkin'

I splurged on a pair of $50 sandals on Sunday at the Rack. I would normally NEVER do this, but they were super comfortable and I could get by with wearing them at work, even though they were technically flip flops. And I always need comfy black sandals, so I justified it by saying they were a "good investment".

Everything was fine... until we went to Target (my favorite store ever) and I found a pair of equally as comfy black sandals for $4.50. I kid you not. 4 dollars and 50 cents for an even BETTER pair of shoes - no flip flop resemblance.

Needless to say, I'm taking the $50 pair back.

Oh yeah, and I went back to Target and bought 2 more pair. Can't beat clearance, baby!!!

These Boots Were Made for Walkin'

I splurged on a pair of $50 sandals on Sunday at the Rack. I would normally NEVER do this, but they were super comfortable and I could get by with wearing them at work, even though they were technically flip flops. And I always need comfy black sandals, so I justified it by saying they were a "good investment".

Everything was fine... until we went to Target (my favorite store ever) and I found a pair of equally as comfy black sandals for $4.50. I kid you not. 4 dollars and 50 cents for an even BETTER pair of shoes - no flip flop resemblance.

Needless to say, I'm taking the $50 pair back.

Oh yeah, and I went back to Target and bought 2 more pair. Can't beat clearance, baby!!!

Let's all go to the movies

We watched a few movies this past weekend. It started out bad with "War of the Worlds" on Friday night. Not sure how this movie ever got made (again) or how Steven Spielberg directed it, but this movie made no sense and was pretty worthless. Even the special effects couldn't save it for me. And Tom Cruise definitely didn't help matters.

Next was "Little Miss Sunshine" on Saturday afternoon. Knew I was going to love it, and I did. Absolutely fantastic, super funny, and so heartwarming without being overboard. At all. It was so so so so so so so great. Still laughing about it.

And lastly was "Always" on Sunday afternoon. I have LOVED this movie since it first came out and was so excited when Jon said he would watch it with me. Turns out he loved it too. Hard to go wrong with Holly Hunter, Richard Dreyfuss, and John Goodman. "Girl clothes!!!" Love it...

He's also managed to rope me into Miami Ink and I've done the same with him and Project Runway. We're hooked on both. Too bad we usually prefer to go to bed before they actually come on. We're such old people already.

Let's all go to the movies

We watched a few movies this past weekend. It started out bad with "War of the Worlds" on Friday night. Not sure how this movie ever got made (again) or how Steven Spielberg directed it, but this movie made no sense and was pretty worthless. Even the special effects couldn't save it for me. And Tom Cruise definitely didn't help matters.

Next was "Little Miss Sunshine" on Saturday afternoon. Knew I was going to love it, and I did. Absolutely fantastic, super funny, and so heartwarming without being overboard. At all. It was so so so so so so so great. Still laughing about it.

And lastly was "Always" on Sunday afternoon. I have LOVED this movie since it first came out and was so excited when Jon said he would watch it with me. Turns out he loved it too. Hard to go wrong with Holly Hunter, Richard Dreyfuss, and John Goodman. "Girl clothes!!!" Love it...

He's also managed to rope me into Miami Ink and I've done the same with him and Project Runway. We're hooked on both. Too bad we usually prefer to go to bed before they actually come on. We're such old people already.

Let's all go to the movies

We watched a few movies this past weekend. It started out bad with "War of the Worlds" on Friday night. Not sure how this movie ever got made (again) or how Steven Spielberg directed it, but this movie made no sense and was pretty worthless. Even the special effects couldn't save it for me. And Tom Cruise definitely didn't help matters.

Next was "Little Miss Sunshine" on Saturday afternoon. Knew I was going to love it, and I did. Absolutely fantastic, super funny, and so heartwarming without being overboard. At all. It was so so so so so so so great. Still laughing about it.

And lastly was "Always" on Sunday afternoon. I have LOVED this movie since it first came out and was so excited when Jon said he would watch it with me. Turns out he loved it too. Hard to go wrong with Holly Hunter, Richard Dreyfuss, and John Goodman. "Girl clothes!!!" Love it...

He's also managed to rope me into Miami Ink and I've done the same with him and Project Runway. We're hooked on both. Too bad we usually prefer to go to bed before they actually come on. We're such old people already.

Married and all that stuff...

I've decided I need to start blogging again. Writing is a great help to me and it's something I enjoy, and I miss recognizing the little odd things that happen to me and around me. PLUS, I can access blogger from work, which is a miracle considering they've taken everything else away. Something about a security risk... whatever. It's just people's credit cards, credit reports, bank accounts, and all-around financial well-being. Get over it, people!

So we've gone ahead and taken the big plunge, stuck the rings on each other's fingers, promised eternity, and said "I Do". The day was absolutely wonderful and truly a celebration of us and our relationship and future lives together. With only close friends and family there to join us, it was very low-stress/no drama and just fun. We even had two of my nephews in the pool while we got married. Sitting quietly on the step of course, but you get the idea. Some of Jon's family from Texas were there, and some of my friends and family from California, Arizona, Colorado and Nebraska were able to make it. So fun.

If you'd like to see the online photo album, just send me a note and I'll be happy to shoot it over.

Married life has been fantastic for the most part. I mean, we love each other endlessly and love that we are still kind of getting to know each other since we waited to have sex and waited to move in together until we were actually married. It was something that we were adamant about saving for our wedding night, and we are so glad we did. But we were getting shooe'd out of our own reception!! (I needed another glass of wine!)

We are reminded everyday that those two little words are not magic and life is not a fairy tale once you get married, no matter how much you try to keep it in God's plan ahead of time. Life has a funny way of throwing you curve balls and you've gotta adjust as they come flying at you. We're doing the best we can, though we know we can improve so we try to remind ourselves everyday of that.

I know--it's only been 3 weeks and I'm already talking about how hard it is. But it's reality and we're human. I once heard marriage described as taking two completely different people, raised with different families, probably in very different environments with different backgrounds and stories, and throwing them together and telling them to live happily ever after. It just doesn't happen in an instant. But we trust that with some work and lots of prayer, we're gonna get there. I'm learning how to be a wife and he's learning how to be a husband and a spiritual leader. Things we've never done before.

It's interesting, because we got married in the midst of two marriages falling apart around us. Two marriages that I was present for the exchanging of vows, the promises to love and to cherish, through sickness and in health, for better or for worse.... And in each of those it was one person who chose to opt out. Basically out of nowhere. Slap in the face. "I'm done". Two marriages that I never thought would last - one because they were so different, and the other because we thought she was "too good for him" (and he's my brother!). Both lasted at least 5 years, and through good and bad times. It was almost enough to make me feel guilty--with one of the couples, the wife is a dear friend of mine who came to my bridal shower right after her world came crashing down, and the other is my brother who is dealing with loving a woman who has decided she doesn't love him anymore. Having these two important people present and celebrating something so wonderful in my life meant so much, but it also was a big flashing neon sign informing me that things can go wrong. The other person can decide that life being married to you isn't fulfilling and they need to go find happiness elsewhere.

Of course, I don't think this is ever in the cards for Jon and I. Don't mistake me for being such a cynic that I'm bringing this up 3 weeks after my own wedding. Jon is who I'm meant to be with forever and we're in it for the long haul. Through it all. No going back. And my heart breaks for those close to me who are wondering where theirs went off track.

OKAY, well--WELCOME BACK TO HOLLY!!! haha... The purpose of this blog has not changed. I will still post the strange and unusual, however I am in a different place in my life now, so there will also be a few more gushy and gooey posts as well. Enjoy... Stop by often.

Married and all that stuff...

I've decided I need to start blogging again. Writing is a great help to me and it's something I enjoy, and I miss recognizing the little odd things that happen to me and around me. PLUS, I can access blogger from work, which is a miracle considering they've taken everything else away. Something about a security risk... whatever. It's just people's credit cards, credit reports, bank accounts, and all-around financial well-being. Get over it, people!

So we've gone ahead and taken the big plunge, stuck the rings on each other's fingers, promised eternity, and said "I Do". The day was absolutely wonderful and truly a celebration of us and our relationship and future lives together. With only close friends and family there to join us, it was very low-stress/no drama and just fun. We even had two of my nephews in the pool while we got married. Sitting quietly on the step of course, but you get the idea. Some of Jon's family from Texas were there, and some of my friends and family from California, Arizona, Colorado and Nebraska were able to make it. So fun.

If you'd like to see the online photo album, just send me a note and I'll be happy to shoot it over.

Married life has been fantastic for the most part. I mean, we love each other endlessly and love that we are still kind of getting to know each other since we waited to have sex and waited to move in together until we were actually married. It was something that we were adamant about saving for our wedding night, and we are so glad we did. But we were getting shooe'd out of our own reception!! (I needed another glass of wine!)

We are reminded everyday that those two little words are not magic and life is not a fairy tale once you get married, no matter how much you try to keep it in God's plan ahead of time. Life has a funny way of throwing you curve balls and you've gotta adjust as they come flying at you. We're doing the best we can, though we know we can improve so we try to remind ourselves everyday of that.

I know--it's only been 3 weeks and I'm already talking about how hard it is. But it's reality and we're human. I once heard marriage described as taking two completely different people, raised with different families, probably in very different environments with different backgrounds and stories, and throwing them together and telling them to live happily ever after. It just doesn't happen in an instant. But we trust that with some work and lots of prayer, we're gonna get there. I'm learning how to be a wife and he's learning how to be a husband and a spiritual leader. Things we've never done before.

It's interesting, because we got married in the midst of two marriages falling apart around us. Two marriages that I was present for the exchanging of vows, the promises to love and to cherish, through sickness and in health, for better or for worse.... And in each of those it was one person who chose to opt out. Basically out of nowhere. Slap in the face. "I'm done". Two marriages that I never thought would last - one because they were so different, and the other because we thought she was "too good for him" (and he's my brother!). Both lasted at least 5 years, and through good and bad times. It was almost enough to make me feel guilty--with one of the couples, the wife is a dear friend of mine who came to my bridal shower right after her world came crashing down, and the other is my brother who is dealing with loving a woman who has decided she doesn't love him anymore. Having these two important people present and celebrating something so wonderful in my life meant so much, but it also was a big flashing neon sign informing me that things can go wrong. The other person can decide that life being married to you isn't fulfilling and they need to go find happiness elsewhere.

Of course, I don't think this is ever in the cards for Jon and I. Don't mistake me for being such a cynic that I'm bringing this up 3 weeks after my own wedding. Jon is who I'm meant to be with forever and we're in it for the long haul. Through it all. No going back. And my heart breaks for those close to me who are wondering where theirs went off track.

OKAY, well--WELCOME BACK TO HOLLY!!! haha... The purpose of this blog has not changed. I will still post the strange and unusual, however I am in a different place in my life now, so there will also be a few more gushy and gooey posts as well. Enjoy... Stop by often.

Married and all that stuff...

I've decided I need to start blogging again. Writing is a great help to me and it's something I enjoy, and I miss recognizing the little odd things that happen to me and around me. PLUS, I can access blogger from work, which is a miracle considering they've taken everything else away. Something about a security risk... whatever. It's just people's credit cards, credit reports, bank accounts, and all-around financial well-being. Get over it, people!

So we've gone ahead and taken the big plunge, stuck the rings on each other's fingers, promised eternity, and said "I Do". The day was absolutely wonderful and truly a celebration of us and our relationship and future lives together. With only close friends and family there to join us, it was very low-stress/no drama and just fun. We even had two of my nephews in the pool while we got married. Sitting quietly on the step of course, but you get the idea. Some of Jon's family from Texas were there, and some of my friends and family from California, Arizona, Colorado and Nebraska were able to make it. So fun.

If you'd like to see the online photo album, just send me a note and I'll be happy to shoot it over.

Married life has been fantastic for the most part. I mean, we love each other endlessly and love that we are still kind of getting to know each other since we waited to have sex and waited to move in together until we were actually married. It was something that we were adamant about saving for our wedding night, and we are so glad we did. But we were getting shooe'd out of our own reception!! (I needed another glass of wine!)

We are reminded everyday that those two little words are not magic and life is not a fairy tale once you get married, no matter how much you try to keep it in God's plan ahead of time. Life has a funny way of throwing you curve balls and you've gotta adjust as they come flying at you. We're doing the best we can, though we know we can improve so we try to remind ourselves everyday of that.

I know--it's only been 3 weeks and I'm already talking about how hard it is. But it's reality and we're human. I once heard marriage described as taking two completely different people, raised with different families, probably in very different environments with different backgrounds and stories, and throwing them together and telling them to live happily ever after. It just doesn't happen in an instant. But we trust that with some work and lots of prayer, we're gonna get there. I'm learning how to be a wife and he's learning how to be a husband and a spiritual leader. Things we've never done before.

It's interesting, because we got married in the midst of two marriages falling apart around us. Two marriages that I was present for the exchanging of vows, the promises to love and to cherish, through sickness and in health, for better or for worse.... And in each of those it was one person who chose to opt out. Basically out of nowhere. Slap in the face. "I'm done". Two marriages that I never thought would last - one because they were so different, and the other because we thought she was "too good for him" (and he's my brother!). Both lasted at least 5 years, and through good and bad times. It was almost enough to make me feel guilty--with one of the couples, the wife is a dear friend of mine who came to my bridal shower right after her world came crashing down, and the other is my brother who is dealing with loving a woman who has decided she doesn't love him anymore. Having these two important people present and celebrating something so wonderful in my life meant so much, but it also was a big flashing neon sign informing me that things can go wrong. The other person can decide that life being married to you isn't fulfilling and they need to go find happiness elsewhere.

Of course, I don't think this is ever in the cards for Jon and I. Don't mistake me for being such a cynic that I'm bringing this up 3 weeks after my own wedding. Jon is who I'm meant to be with forever and we're in it for the long haul. Through it all. No going back. And my heart breaks for those close to me who are wondering where theirs went off track.

OKAY, well--WELCOME BACK TO HOLLY!!! haha... The purpose of this blog has not changed. I will still post the strange and unusual, however I am in a different place in my life now, so there will also be a few more gushy and gooey posts as well. Enjoy... Stop by often.