Little Lady update.

Not So Funny

So last night, I finally gave in and agreed to watch "Funny Girl" with the wife. She has been wanting to get me to watch the "classics" for some time now, I needed a break from papers/presentations/powerpoints, and she needed a good Friday night. SO, we did it. (ACTUALLY, we started it on THURSDAY night, but I fell asleep. HOWEVER, those are just minor details, really.)

You know, for the most part, I really enjoyed myself (sorry grandpa Fred, I thought she did great). I laughed and even got a little excited when she started singing:

"Don't tell me not to live, just sit and putter. Life's candy and the sun's a ball of butter. Don't bring around a cloud to rain on my paraaaaaaaade."

HOWEVER, why didn't someone tell me that the ending was going to be CRAP? Complete CRAP!? I mean, come ON, Fanny Brice got the SHAFT.

It got me thinking. When I watch "classic" movies , I watch them for a reason. I watch them because they are NOT reality. I watch "classics" because truth prevails, the badguy is put to justice, and life problems are resolved in 2 hours and generally with song, dance, and even lots of lights. Why does Fanny (or Mr. Arnstein for that matter) think they can change that? Why do they think they can defy the connotation of a classic? Thus, allow me to draft a letter:

Dear Megan, love of my life,

I agree to watch your "classics" as long as their endings don't completely blow. I require at least that degree of consistency and reliability in my life.

Your loving husband and life companion,

Greg

What DREAMS may come..

I am a vivid dreamer. Everything is VERY real in my dreams. Sometimes they are wonderful and happy, other times they are so sad and heart-wrenching, that I wake up crying. This morning was one of the latter experiences.

I dreamt that one of my dearest friends died and that I was at the funeral, sitting int the foyer, and an absolute mess. For some reason I was not in the congregation, I was wandering around the church aimlessly, (might I add that it was the coolest church I have ever been in! Soo many secrets and winding staircases.) listening to the service being projected from some imaginary speaker that followed me everywhere. As I roamed a million memories came back of this person. Of the way the have changed my life and helped to make me the person that I am today. Sadness set in as I realized that marriage, schooling, and careers have made it harder to not be as close or build as many memories. The heartbreak was so real that when I finally awoke I had to text them just to make sure they were alright and knew just how much I love them.

As I sat there, waiting for a reply, I was overcome by joy and gratitude that there are still chances for me to continue our relationship and build memories in this life. Fortunate for me, I love their spouse also and couldn't be more thankful for how eternally happy they have made my dear friend. It has me reflecting upon ALL of my loved ones today. I am forever grateful for the memories, the lessons, and the way you have changed my life for the better!

Until NEXT Year

Dearest Gregory,

Thank you for allowing me to be a very important role in the celebration of your day of birth. I promise that next year I will blow your mind with my AMAZINGness. I will include chocolate frosting AND LARGE Ghirardelli chocolate chips on top.

Sincerely,

YOUR annual German Chocolate Birthday Cake

Little Lady update

Like Mother Like Daughter.

Dear Mother Dearest,

The day has come when I fully understand what you refer to as, "a few moments of peace and quiet." Today while trying to use the restroom by myself, my little lady followed me from her bedroom to the bathroom. I shut the door on her, for the first time since she was born. She proceeded to talk and jabber at me through the door. So very many memories came back of me doing the exact same thing to you while you tried very patiently to obtain a few moments of peace and quiet. My dreamlike state was broken through when I realized that her jabbering turned into very upset "yelling" and crying. She was mad that I dare shut her out of my life, even if for just a few moments; and then I realized... I now understood how you felt and what you meant by "please, just let me have a few moments of peace and quiet." I apologize for the countless times I have followed you into your bathroom and continued jabbering on while you patiently listened as I interrupted your quiet time. I also apologize in advance for ever doing it again... I will try to refrain. I do have a confession though, I receive much joy from knowing that there is a possibility that my little lady will love and look up to me the way that I do to you! I hope to be so lucky!

To Eternity and Beyond,

Your Baby Girl

My NOT-so-Triumphant Return

Miss me? I miss you. Why? Because I find something so therapeutic in the notion that I can regurgitate my perceptions and opinions and goings on in this digital drop-box known as a blog, and you just have to sit there and take it (OR, better yet, leave comment). SO, allow me to heave my most recent thoughts.

I have been bummed the past couple of days. In fact, the first day I bordered pissed off. Well rather, the first day I was bi-polaring from perspective to pissed offedness. Yesterday, I was bummed. Today, I am still bummed. Tomorrow, I anticipated bummed with a touch of the HAPPY FRIDAY (That ALWAYS seems to make things better). Saturday, well on my way to recovery!

Why, you ask? Allow me to explain.

About eleven months ago I heard about an awesome career opportunity known as Teach For America, and organization dedicated to closing the achievement gap within America’s schools. It was a two-year commitment teaching school in inner city districts. I was PUMPED. I have always wanted to teach and one of the programs was back in the South. This was going to be a perfect opportunity for a couple years before I went back to school to get my graduate degree.

After waiting about 8 months, I began the extensive application process. The entire process could easily be compared, if not more extensive than, the application to a prestigious graduate school. Over the next three months, I filled out the initial application, wrote a few different letters of intent and ability, had OTHERS write letters in my behave, filled out multiple forms, had three sets of interviews, studied the program in depth, prepared and taught a group lesson, studied in depth the possible locations for relocation, and read multiple articles about the nature of the achievement gap in America’s schools. I was pumped and excited. And two days ago, I got the word that I was not accepted into the program. I am bummed.

This is just an employment opportunity. Why am I so bummed? I mean, come on Greg, get it together. However, in an attempt to get it off my chest, allow me to explain a couple of the reasons I feel bummed:

• I was PUMPED about his opportunity. The program fit me and I fit the program. I was ready to excel! This was not a lofty goal; it was going to be a great marriage, if you will.
• I felt I did an outstanding job throughout the entire interview process. I felt confident.
• I was SO excited to move back to the South for a couple of years and show Megs and Em the joy of Dixie.
• I had studied and prepare myself for this program for almost a year
• Though I have been applying elsewhere, it was a degree of “job security”. It was a main player in helping me focus my last semester of school.
• TFA offers outstanding opportunities for grad school grants and scholarships as well as career placement after the two-year commitment.
• Lastly, I felt so “good” about the entire process and organization.
  
  The worst part of it all was how I found out that I did not get accepted. I was sitting in class (my LEAST favorite class, none the less) and a fellow student raised his hand to make an announcement to the class. He had just been accepted to Teach For America and the entire class cheered. I, excited and confident, then logged on to the TFA website to check my status in anticipation of raising my own hand in excitement and announcing that I, too, had been accepted and was moving to Atlanta! . . . The first word I saw was “sorry”. I just starred at the screen for a bit, and then put my head down to gain a little composure.

So, after “the news”, I have spent hours and hours applying for more jobs. I have even spoken with CEOs and CMOs of prestigious companies, and nothing fruitful has turned up as of yet. So, the saga continues.

I am confident that I will succeed, just in a different light than I anticipated, but such is life.

Now for my plug. If you will, please be my eyes and ears to opportunities. We are looking to come back to Davis County for the time being. I would love a job in the Davis County/SLC County area, but would welcome any opportunity that allows me to provide sufficiently for my little family.

Thank you for being such great supporters . . . and for reading this never-ending rant!

Little Lady update.

Sorry this is all you get from me, but that is just how it is right now! And I am perfectly happy with that.

HELP PLEASE!

Okay, I know I really don't deserve your help, but I guaran-damn-tee you that once I am done with this thing called "college", I will be MUCH funner! 6 MORE WEEKS!!!

ANYWHO, please help me out with a class survey.

CLICK HERE

It is completely LEGIT and I needs to help. It should only take a few minutes.

THANKS!

Sorry ya'll, we have had NO desire to blog here in the Larsen household. Not that there are really very many people out there that read this, but for the 3 people that do, we are sorry.

Just wanted to let you know that we are happy, healthy, and well. Greg has 7 more weeks left of school at BYU, the Little Lady is a growing and learning machine, and I am.. well, just trying to do my best to keep my little family taken care of. So far, so good.

Littley Lady update

Little Lady update

Poor Kangaroo Legs...

Today I glued pieces back together from a book for the first time in my life as a mother. This was not just any book, it was Emmalee's Matthew Van Fleet's Alphabet book. We LOVE that book.

However, I think that the most interesting tidbit about this situation is that the pieces from the book were not ripped out by my child, nor any child for that matter... it was loosened by one of our very dear, curious, and might I add male friends. Maybe it is true that Men are just big kids.

Super glue worked like a charm, but the book is no longer in pristine condition, like I hoped it would stay for years and years to come. I was convinced that I could keep all books in tact and all toys sanitized at all times... Maybe if I can just keep the big kids away I wont have to revise my ideals.

P.S. Happy 6 months to my Little Lady!

Little Lady update

Dear Megan,

For my birthday I would like (to the reader: November 23. Consider yourself warned.):

#1

And

#2

#3

(My favorite book from the 5th grade)

#4

Take a look at those ATTACHMENTS!

#5

#6 #7

#8

Only for a week . . . or four

#9

My own backyard

with . . .

one of these . . . AND

one of these!

AND Last, BUT not least . . .

#10

(I hear these are kinda hard to come by . . . good luck!)

Humbly,

Your husband

Equation

ME!

My LAST Undergrad semester begins next week. WHAT? When did this happen? It seems as though just a few semesters ago I embraced that fact that I would be in school forever. Grandpa Greg (that’s what they call me at BYU. I am not THAT old, come on!) hobblin’ around the Y until a hip breaks or something, but no, it’s almost done.

Enter: Excitement, sadness, confusion, anxiety, anticipation, joy, relief, and even a little touch of “in yo face.”

Do you know what scares me even more, is the fact that I am supposed to “know” business and marketing. I am supposed to be “schooled” in these matters and be “good” and “professional” at them. I’m screwed.

However, even though I am screwed, I am excited for a fun and busy last semester. I am excited to figure life out. I am excited be a graduate of such an outstanding school.

Here goes nothin’.

Hear ye, hear ye

Each summer Meg’s extended family (we’re talking 70+ people) go to Sun Valley Idaho each year.

They have been going for, I think, the past 30-40 years.  It is a ski resort during the winter, and a beautiful getaway during the summer.  It really is a great time and filled with more tradition than you can shake a stick at . . . and we love it.

One such tradition is the annual migration of the men to the golf course.  And this is serious business, people.  Grandpa sets these tee times far in advance and your answer when he asks if you are going . . . is yes.  End of discussion.

Now don’t get me wrong, it really is a wonderful time and a BEAUTIFUL course and grandpa is so generous to have me go, but I am not what would refer to as a “good golfer.”

The past two years I have attempted to have the best time that I can and just relax, but I just would begin, after 18 holes, to boil over with a bit of anger.  I mean really, one may ask “how can one skinny ole stick, one small ball, and breath taking beautiful scenery cause so much anguish?”  I am not exactly sure why, but it can, damn it!

THIS year was going to be different.  THIS year I was going to come prepared.  THIS year I was going to have the experience that such an outstanding course demands. I signed up for the golf class at school, I was going to the driving range weekly and I even bought a book entitled “Making it to Par.” . . . well I had to drop the class, I never made it to the driving range, and I only read chapter one the day before we came out.  Even then, all that chapter taught me was to hold my club like I would hold a baby bird . . . I have NEVER HELD a baby bird!  I was in for it.

Well, I showed and was put into a group of three with my father-in-law (who just may be one of the most laid back people ever) and a cousin.  You know what?, I had a great time.  I didn’t do that hot, but I didn’t do that bad either.  I lost three balls, but I found three.  AND I only silently cussed like three times.  I really enjoyed myself and learned some great things.

SO, here it is.  I am once again committing myself to becoming a good golfer; technically,I have it in my blood and now I am going to do something about it. 

Now who wants to give me free lessons? . . .

Did You Know THAT? . . .

I claim orange to be my favorite color, but I really like blue and green equally as well.

I hate public nail clippers! Want me to talk bad about you? . . . Clip your nails in public.

I talk out my thoughts. I usually just open my mouth with all sorts of nonsense, but it all eventually comes together.

I would love to go to culinary school and become the Next Food Network Star (or IRON CHEF)!

I physically cannot look at someone while they are making a fool of themselves. (I am TRYING to fix this.)

Listening to my voicemail causes me anxiety.

Sometimes, I like the smell of sulfur.

I consider wealth the day that I can buy a brand new pair of underwear for each day.

I generally complain about things I really am not annoyed by.

I could eat Italian every day of the week, but tend to cook Mexican more often . . . uh?

I am not ashamed to say that I would love to live in Davis County for the rest of my life. I like it there!

I do not like fish or mushrooms.

I like riding my bike.

I am so exhilarated, yet scared by the idea of becoming an entrepreneur.

Though I am not really great, I am better at sports than I allow myself to portray. (Long, boring story)

I would find joy in becoming a professional errand runner.

I have about four different handwritings.

I love being outside.

(I cannot believe that I am about to admit this) I like the smell of my daughter’s wet diapers.

I love all seasons, but always begin to complain about winter during the month of March.

I aspire to be a better flosser.

I married well.

I really appreciate simplistic and beautiful things.

I talk to myself on a regular basis.

I text from the toilet.

I get excited by complicated things.

I complain about being an accountant too much.

I love to sound of paper being torn.

I think daydreaming is therapeutic.

One of my biggest fears is losing my memory just enough to know that I have lost memories. I have wonderful, and oddly detailed, memories.

I like the fact that my wife and I both have dark brown hair.

I find architecture, in all forms, outstanding.

I have never been snowboarding, skydiving, or rock climbing and would like to do them all.

I have a really wonderful family and group of friends.

I love when things are clean and tidy.

Though I always say I will fight it (and OCCASSIONALLY I do) I am driven to do little else but sleep when I am tired.

I prefer early mornings over late nights.

I will stress about forgetting things that should have been on this list.

. . . NOW YOU KNOW!

Campfire Consequences

Last week we went camping with my family to Trial Lake in the Uintahs. We have done this almost every year since I can remember and I love it. I love the relaxing, quiet atmosphere. I love the beautiful scenery and the fact that when you don’t change your underwear for three days . . . you are not the only one. I love sitting around the campfire, talking, roasting whatever is within reach to roast, and (on your last day) daydreaming of the shower you get to take within seconds of being home.

However, with such joys come consequences . . . CAMPFIRE CONSEQUENCES!

Consequence #1 – My hair STILL smells of campfire. After 7+ washes (one of which I used straight up Irish Spring bar soap which made my hair stand almost straight up) not much progress has been made. This MAY be the excuse I need to accomplish my life goal of shaving my head!

Consequence #2 – Laundry, lots of laundry. Now I may not have changed my clothes much, but as always I over packed. AND all that has to be done as well. Not only our stuff, but what seems to be the endless amounts of stuff you have to take when you have a baby.

Consequence #3 – We don’t have our own washer/dryer.

To mediate these consequences we decided to head to the local laundromat to get all 11 loads of laundry done at once. The washing went swell. All 11 loads in 25 minutes! The drying however, did not go as well. We now know that when the Mega Dryer says “7.5 Loads” it does NOT mean that the 11 loads you have is also acceptable.

After exhausting all our quarters and being hungry/ornery/tired we threw in the towel (literally) and headed home with a full car of wet laundry.

NOW, after getting more quarters, hours of laundry drying, hanging blankets out to dry on the fence, and even conning a good friend into letting us use her dryer so we could sleep on dry sheets, my dear wife is STILL hanging and folding clothes after two days.

Morale of this story: Don’t defy the Mega Dryer. The consequences are far too great.

Just hush up and let me vent, will ya?

Let’s face it; I am pretty much an open book. If you show even the slightest bit of interest in my thoughts/opinions/perceptions/experiences . . . I will tell you. AND NOW, with this blog, I can tell you without even receiving the queue. It’s wonderful. (AND I don’t have to suffer the reciprocated glazed look that says, “Greg, . . .UNCLE!” HEY, but I can take an honest suggestion and shut my mouth.)
So what does my current chapter have to say? . . . Not much really; a little blank and confusing. In fact, the chapter heading probably reads something like “Chillaxin’ at its Slowest” or even “Lost in the Wilderness”. Now this has nothing to do with the fun I have with the wife and babe, just my personal (mostly future professional) journey. I thought by the time I got a semester away from graduation my path would be clearer. It seems that everyone around me has more of a clue than I do. They have internships and future jobs. They have direction and resolve. Me? Not so much.
Now, I consider myself a semi-sharp kinda guy. I consider myself someone with some degree of passion and ability. I find myself to being capable of success. I can do this! No more whining. No more self doubt and pity. No more shallow expectations. Today I AM MAKING MY RESOLVE to quit being a dud, grab opportunity by the horns, and go for it. . . whatever it is. I am going to stop being ashamed when I don’t have a clear answer to “So, what do you want to do when you graduate?” I am going to find that path that brings me joy and latch on. (Now, I appreciate accounting, but JOY?, it is not) I am going to find that journey that brings me personal fulfillment and accomplishment. I am going to find that place in the world that I can make the most positive difference, and do it.
WISH ME LUCK! Send those good vibes my way and don’t make fun of me if I fall.

(Insert Eye of the Tiger music HERE)

Oh yeah, and here’s to better blogging. I read some posts from last year and they were so much better than this ninny crap I have been putting out lately.

Unwanted Confessions of a Postal Worker

(Today at the Post Office)

Dotty: May I help you (In a sad, deep, sullen voice)

Me: Media Mail to Pleasant Grove please.

~Dotty sulkily typing~

Me: So, how are you doing?

Dotty: You are the first to ask all day.  No good, not good at all.

Me:  I am sorry to hear that.  (limiting my response as to keep the conversation under control and Dotty tamed)

Dotty:  I have been sick ALL day and no one seems to care, but I just sit here and work through it.

~Dotty pauses, looks up, and coughs~

Me: . . .

. . .

uh, are you contagious?

Dotty:  No, its just all the medications they have me on now.

Me: . . . Oh.

Dotty:  And well, you know, the disease. . .

. . .

~uncomfortable silence and eye contact~

. . .

Me: Well, yeah sorry about that . . . Media Mail please.

~END CONVERSATION~

 

Despite popular opinion, I am not a priest and I illicit NO confession.

Default Face

To any of you out there who have wondered, I am NOT mad at you. That just happens to be my default face. You know, the expression that your face naturally rests in when you are relaxed? Some people are fortunate enough to have a bright and pleasant default face that makes you think “boy, they must have a really peaceful and fulfilling life.” THEN there is MY default face that makes you consider “man, why are his panties in such a bunch?”

SO, again, I am not mad at you. I am not grumpy. I am not annoyed or even slightly perturbed (well, I might be so just play it safe and cater to my needs.) I quite enjoy my life. I think it is swell.

This also goes to mention that if you see me relaxed with a pleasant look upon my face . . . it is an active attempt to look that way and you should be impressed.

Next, the “verbal smile”. It’s not a courtesy laugh, its a VERBAL SMILE.

Thank you.

You Decide!

A month and a half ago when I was finishing up the Spring semester.  Not only was I battling finals, but I was also battling the idea that I needed a break.  I needed a break and I needed it now. . . and I got it.  This past 6 weeks has been wonderfully relaxing and refreshingly distracting.  I have been able to sleep in and dink around in the mornings, even enjoying a little early SpongeBob with Em.  I have been able to get excited about our trip to Nauvoo next week and then camping and Sun Valley in the following weeks.  It has been nice not to think about school and homework and groups and pressing deadlines and professors and all the other craziness that comes with the business program.  I feel relatively at ease and I have been able to really let my mind relax.

HOWEVER (life ALWAYS seems to deal you a HOWEVER), I have REALLY allowed my mind to relax.  So much so that I have really not put that much effort into planning out the rest of my professional life.  I have not thought much about school, my LAST semester, an internship, or (the BIG one) a career.  Let’s face it, a business degree is a good degree, but a very VAGUE degree.  I am READY to succeed in something wonderful and exhilarating, but what EXACTLY I cannot quite pinpoint.

SO, here is where you step in:  HELP ME OUT!  Spread the love people and lay down your opinions!  WHAT SHOULD GREG BE WHEN HE GROWS UP?

Let me give you a little guidance:

• I enjoy people.  I need to work WITH, AROUND, and FOR people.  No desk slave here!
• I love organization and being busy.  And I’m good at it.
• I would appreciate a creativity allowance.  You know, being fun and fresh.
• I really would like a job where I feel I am positively affecting the lives of others.

So there you have it.  Go crazy and give me all you got.  I am throwing myself at you and would appreciate anything you are willing to give

Ready, Set, GO!

Little Lady update.

My Triumphant Return

Okay, so I am making a public committment that I am going to return to the blogging world. Not that you care, really, but I CARE! The wife looked at me the other day and informed me that she has been carrying the blogging load for long enough now and that I needed to get my rear in gear.
Rear is now geared.
Hold on tight, is going to be a WILD RIDE!

(Speaking of wild rides, click on the Love Food picture on the right to take a look at our new FOOD BLOG! That's right, a FOOD BLOG SUCKAS! I will explain it more later.)

ANOTHER Little Lady update! Aren't you SO very proud of me?!

Little Lady update

Best Daddy in the World!

Dear Dada,

Thank you for being the best Dada I could ever ask for.

Lots and Lots of Love,

Emmalee Ann

Emmalee is one blessed little lady to have the daddy that she has, and I am one blessed Mommy to have the husband I have. He cooks, cleans, does the laundry, entertains, and still finds time to provide for us! We love you.. to eternity and beyond! (The above picture is of Super Dad carrying the babe while doing laundry!)

Jaman William Davies

"There is no better exercise for the heart…
Than reaching down and lifting someone up."

On June 13th a giant heart was peacefully and unexpectedly called home in his sleep from a sudden illness into the arms of Grandma "Nice" and Grandma Colleen.

As the first hint of dawn gave birth to a new day, on April 9th 1979, Jaman's energy flooded into our lives to become our "son-shine". He bounced through childhood glowing from ear-to-ear, hurtling full light-speed through life; collecting friends at every turn and in each new adventure. His motto of "No Fear" permeated every play of his life; whether on the football field at Viewmont High School, on the basketball courts in Russia or on the streets of New York City as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

His entrepreneurial spirit revealed itself early as he could be found selling individual lifesavers to the neighborhood gang or, supplying his classmates' sweet tooth cravings from his junior high locker or making a steal of a baseball card deal with his bosom buddy-cousins; Spence and Chad. A grin on his mischievous face accompanied all transactions.

Everyone he encountered was embraced with "you've got a friend in me". Jaman and generous were synonymous. The shirt off his back was constantly disappearing. His ample size was never large enough to hold his enormous heart. J redefined "true friend". Consequently, "Da Boyz" reciprocally reinvented loyalty. They never stopped believing in him.

Jaman was a champion "runner": surprising his mother with rose bouquets after a fulfilling Costco "run", a lunch "run" for his siblings and any friend on "L-4", D.Q. "runs" 1 minute before closing, dollar-store "runs" with wide-eyed nephews, tool "runs" for a hard-working father", flower "runs" for a backyard wedding, 2 a.m. milk "runs" after Sports Center was over. He would literally have run to the ends of the earth for his family.

The title he wore best and most proudly was "Uncle". Hopefully he will write the "Uncle Handbook" and e-mail it to earth. Never were any children more loved. Their needs were understood and met by him in a unique way. He instinctively knew how to enter a child's world and connect eye-to-eye, heart to heart and spirit to spirit. Jaman understood that one of the few things that make it through "celestial customs" is relationships. Those are forever yours," Best Buddy"!

Jaman loved power tools, power naps, power drinks, power books, power work-outs, power prayers, power quotes, power scriptures and the power of his family who "of one heart" will love him to eternity and beyond!

He taught us volumes about: looking on the heart, walking forward, holding on, withholding judgment, choosing love, believing in the Light of the World and that the worth of souls is great in the sight of God.

J, the "best two years of your life" can now be resumed in a new mission field as you join your brothers, Elder Taylor in Atlanta, Georgia and Elder Jordan in Manchester, England- "chosen 'ere to witness for His name". Lay down your earthly "to-do" list to pick up a new one penned for you by a loving Father's hand.

Jaman was preceded in death by his grandmothers: Constance G. Leishman and Colleen W. Davies and his niece, Sarah Colleen Liljenquist. He is survived by his parents: William and Shelley Davies; his siblings: Brooke and Dan Liljenquist, Krista Davies, Megan and Greg Larsen, Elder Jordan Davies, Elder Taylor Davies and Matthew Davies; his nephews and nieces: Jacob, Grace, Nathan, Joshua, Benjamin and Emmalee; his grandfathers: Lowell L. Leishman and James G. Davies and a loving clan of uncles, aunts and cousins.

Little Lady update

Creativity RUT

I have hit a phase, if you will. You know the kind that you never want to hit, but somehow end up hitting anyway. My creativity is gone. Practicality wins over adventure and creativity... Always, well at least lately. In nearly every aspect of my life I feel as if I am lacking in the creativity side of my brain. My decorating is very SAFE, clean, but SAFE. My cooking (or lack thereof) is very safe; to the point of eating the same thing day after day. And don't even getting me started on my image. OK... get me started. My hair is the same as always, my makeup.. well, I barely wear it anymore, and my wardrobe are all SAFE. It really doesn't help when I look at dear friends blogs and see their creativity bursting from the screen. Oh sigh. Maybe I will find what I have lost, and sooner than later. Until then, wish me luck, send creative vibes my way, and for heavens sake don't loose your creativity mojo!

My life is GOOD!

Yes our 3 month old is still sleeping in our room, yes I still wake up at least twice a night to check on her and watch her breathe, and yes she sleeps ALL through the night without a peep! So what.. I am the Mom, I can choose where my little lady sleeps! At least she isn't finding her way into our bed every morning at 5:00. Just sayin!

This little beauty is the last thing I see at night and the first thing I see in the morning!

You all know you want a close up!


P.S. Aunt Brookie let us borrow this wonderful cradle, so that would explain why the bedding is blue. Brooke has 6 beautiful children, the last 3 are boys!

Little Lady update!

Oh Dorothy . . .

I really do have good posts in the making, but to hold you over I will let you in on a little secret . . . . maybe the Golden Girls makes me laugh and maybe I can quote some parts of some episodes and maybe I know all the words to the rarely aired, extended version of the opening credits . . .

So What?  Wanna fight?

Until then, let us all give a moment of silence to the recent passing of a comedic giant (literally), Bea Arthur.

Here’s to you Dorothy.  You will be missed.

AND NO (because I am sure you are asking yourself), I am not ashamed to admit it. I am quite confident that admitting my affection for the Golden Girls AND keeping my Man Card can be accomplished.

"And if you threw a par-tae, i-i-invited everyone you kneeeew, you would see the biggest gift would be from me and the card attached would say 'Thank You for being a frieeeeend!'" (This is for you BEF!)

I feel like a weight has been lifted off my shoulders.

a few of my favorite things..

As I was gazing out the window today, I became so thankful that Spring is finally here. It warms my heart and awakens my soul from the cold winter. I became extremely thankful for so many things.. and here they are, a few of my favorite things:

• Napping with my precious baby girl, while the sun flows through the window and warms her face
• Close hugs from my husband. I missed these while I was largely pregnant.
• SPRING... The blossoming trees, singing birds, shining sun, and overall smell is intoxicating and so good for my soul.
• Apples with peanut butter and honey..try it, you will never be the same!
• A great haircut. I love running my fingers through my hair after it has been trimmed, conditioned, and cared for.
• LAUGHING..I LOVE to laugh, it can heal almost any wound.
• Chewing spearmint gum and drinking a large glass of cold water
• Planting flowers with my Mom in her garden. I haven't done this in years, and I truly miss bonding with her through gardening. My favorite way to get a tan is by working in the yard.
• Game nights! I love to play games and am always up for them, even at 1 o'clock in the morning!
• MUSIC... I love music in almost all forms. I want to have an Ipod doc in every room of my house one day. Music is my language of choice.. All memories have a song to go along with them. When I hear a song I know exactly what grade I was in, what season it was, who my crush was, etc. .. it is an immediate blast from the past!

"It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!" ~Mark Twain

This quote explains Spring perfectly to me, you can never really explain the excitement and anticipation, but it is absolutely real and very tangible. Happy Spring! I hope you enjoy this season as much as I do!

Parks and Recreation

Today was a perfect day.  Today was Emmalee's first day at the park!  Not just ANY park, but Sugarhouse Park.  This park may not be much to many out there, but it has many great (and slightly scandalous) memories for Megs and I.  Today we spent a good chunk of the day in SLC at a dr. appointment and running errands.

Fact about Greg #235- He loves running errands.

I wore shorts and we drove with the windows down.  During our drive we talked about funny memories and future vacation plans.  It was one of those days in which I ALMOST forgot what reality had in store for me back at home.  Today seemed to just meander on by.

Anywho, the park was great.  We stopped by when the babe decided to need a bottle and a new diaper at the same time.  We took it all in.

We laid out the Harley blanket and did our regular routine.  I am pretty sure the babe loved it!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today was the epitome of summer in the park: runners, young love, and dogs on leashes.

 

 

 

 

 

There was even the classic Speedo-wearing sun bather in the classic spread eagle, back lying position. . . seriously.

 

 

 

 

 

Overall, great day. 

I am already planning our next like, carefree, errand filled day . . . after finals.

Our new hobby

Megs and I have found the PERFECT way to lose the baby weight.  I think we really got a knack for this!  Just thought you'd like a sneak peek.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Family Photo

Today was a great day!  Not only did I not have to go into work or do homework, but I went with my beautiful wife and adorable little lady to get our first official family picture.

Our resident photographer has become Kelly from GALLERY PHOTOGRAPHY!  He is outstanding.  Megs and I first met him the day we got our engagement pictures done (well he did Megs bridals as well) and we haven't stopped talking about how cool he is ever since.  As we got in the limo to drive away the evening of our reception, we both looked at each other and said, "wouldn't it be cool to be his REAL friends?" . . . a couple weeks later, at our first meeting in our new ward, we saw his family and him sitting a few pews in front of us . . . we had arrived!

Since then, he has photographed our family and many of our friends.  We have even become stalkers of his wife's blog.  Today, he has outdone himself.

Ladies and Gentlemen . . . my family!

 

I am one proud papa/hubby.

More to come . . . on the SECRET BABY BLOG!

Little Lady Update

Little Lady Update!

Death of an Ice Cream Salesman

It is 12:30 in the morning and I am still not asleep.  In fact, I have not gone to bed before nearly 1am for the past two weeks.  I dose off in class and sneak the 30 second nap at work nearly everyday, but I here I sit . . . blogging.  Why, you ask?  Well a little for the readers out there, but mostly for myself.  It makes me feel good and the fact that I have gone weeks without a post makes me feel a little pent up.  Now I know that guys aren't supposed to blog like the ladies, but SCREW 'EM.  I like it, and besides, I don't don't blog like the ladies.  Take THAT!

Anywho, here we go.

The other day I was driving home from work with the window down and the music up. (I was probably dancing and/or singing, but I don't care because I am off of work and get to go home to my amazing wife and adorable baby)  I like to take the "scenic route", as Megs calls it, and drove through a nice, all-American neighborhood.  I heard the Ice Cream Truck! and I got nostalgic.  Those were the days!  Summer, chores done, no homework, and Tang to our hearts content.  My sister and I would keep a coin stash close by the door so we could just grab and go.  We usually had to chase him down for a block or two, but it was worth the run.  I would get the Rocket Pop.  You know, the red, white, and blue popsickle with the ridges?  We would have it half gone by the walk home and eat the other have while laying on the grass.  My legs would then get a little itchy from the lawn so we would hurry and finish and go climb the tree or something.  These were the glory days!  THIS is the definition of childhood.

I want Emmalee to have these things.  I want her to know of this simple joy.  I want her to have this as part of her summers. . . . but just as I had that thought the "Ice Cream Man" came driving around the corner . . . DAD-GUMIT (I MAY have said something worse?)!  There he was, Chester the Molester, driving some nasty, old beat up van with some pictures on the side of ice cream you could buy at the store plastered on the side . . . GO AWAY!

Why did this man and almost ALL other ice cream men have to have ruined this memory and joy?  Why has this become the job of nasty men everywhere?  Has it become part of parole?  I HATE what has become of this simple life pleasure.

Here is what the Ice Cream Truck WAS. . .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And HERE is a MUTED version of what they have become. . .

 

 

Hella to the NO!

 

 

 

Sorry Emmalee, it seems as though this one is destined for the vault.  We'll come up with something better.  Promise!

Little Lady Update

Little Lady Update

Heaven!

Emmalee Ann Larsen = Absolute HEAVEN.

Well we are home and are now OFFICIALLY the parents of the PERFECT little lady.  Emmalee was born this past Monday, the 2nd of March at 18:26 weighing in at a healthy 8 lbs 10 oz and 19 inches long and we couldn't be happier.  The past few days have been full of joy, excitement, sleep deprivation, the occasional worry, laughter, cries, wonderment, and just pure heaven.

And just FYI, Emmalee is pretty much the PERFECT baby.  She sleeps well, she eats well, she works well with momma, she takes a binky, and even the occasional bottle.  She smiles, has even giggled, and has eyes you can fall into.

For a full listing of pictures see LITTLE LADY, but for the masses I will post one below.

. . .

This is going to be a GREAT weekend.

And if you didn't comment on my last post, then you are NOT allowed to know why.

Take THAT!

. . .

Classic Accountability

Their are rules of fatherhood that I plan on holding myself to: I will never make fun of my daughters, I will search for opportunities for adventure, and I will hold my kids accountable to the CLASSICS to name a few.  Which classics, you ask?  Let me give you a taste:  Kraft Macaroni and Cheese,  Big Wheels, Saturday morning cartoons, Saturday morning chores, chicken nuggets, bed-time stories, Kick the Can, piano lessons, summer road trips, and riding bikes.  HOWEVER, there is one that nearly takes the Classic Accountability Cake . . . . .

NINTENDO 64!

I LOVE the Nintendo 64!  I played it religiously when I was younger (specifically MarioKart, DK, and Zelda).  When I got home from my mission I inquired about the 64 . . . and it was GONE!  It was kiboshed by my father.  This changed me.  I felt abused.  So just after I got married I did what any sensible "abused" person would do . . . go on Ebay and BUY ANOTHER ONE!  A GREEN ONE!  (You should have seen Meg's face.  THAT was classic!)

Anywho, sadly with life's craziness and my severe lack of games, it just sat and collected dust . . . UNTIL LAST WEEK.  That's right, the Nintendo 64 has made its triumphant return when friend Bethany and her brother brought over a slew of games.  They included:

MarioKart 64.  Oh the joy that is this game.  I pretty much kick some major trash.  There are sides of me that come out during this game that very few have seen, but would do anything to witness.

 

There is still a fire in our eyes when my sister, Cheryl, and I talk about this game.  She STILL is the only one to consecutively beat me on this one.

 

 

This is Zelda.  Secretly, I have beat this game numerous times, but just kept going.  This one is a keeper!

 

 

 

 

And GoldenEye 64!  Don't tell me you don't remember Natalia.  The anxiety that this games breeds is nearly lethal, but you can never step away.  Your sight is on that Golden Gun and you will continue at ALL ODDS to get it.  Oh yeah, and the knife throwing is cool!

And OF COURSE the Donkey Kong listed above.  (I am trying to teach Megs how to love this game.  She is putting up a bit of a fight, but she'll give in once she sees the babe and I kickin' some major monkey trash!)

We are SO excited, but worry sometimes that we have what it takes to be good parents, BUT with our adherence to the classics, I believe us to be one step ahead.

Pleasantly Distracted

School has been busy, work has been getting crazy, the internship is new, the apartment is staying clean, errands are being run, people at school are doing stupid/weird/crazy things, random stories are in the making, we have stayed and played with family and friends, and generally we have stayed busy. 

And non of it really seems to matter right now.

Why? . . . because of THIS:

But for good measure I am also including this picture:

This is Megs watching a racoon, that's right, a coon eating catfood with its little hands at best friend Steve's house.

Little Lady update

Little Lady update

(aka, the new baby blog has a new post.)

Once you have sent us your email, we will send you and invite.  Click on the link and follow the directions.  Don't worry if you don't have a Gmail account (though I would recommend one, they're GREAT!).  It should still work with the email that you send us.

Our newest addition!

BLOG addition that is.  Okay, stay with me on this one.

We are more than excited to have our little lady and share with our family/friends all of her happenings, but many people now a days have decided that once they have kids that they need to go private with their blog as to keep all creepy people at bay.  Y'all, I am a little selfish and think to myself, "Self, we can't do this thing!"  SO, here's my response/solution.

We have created a NEW BABY BLOG!  This blog will be all things baby; baby pictures, baby stories, baby suggestions, and confessionals that I have NO idea what I am doing when it comes to this sweet little lady. 

SO. . .

greganfamily.blogspot.com will remain just as it is; a blog dedicated to the life of Megs and me.  This will be a public blog that I (and Megs, remember?) write/post pictures about the craziness that are our lives and perceptions.  Have you ever seen Everybody Loves Raymond? (one of our favorite shows).  In that show, Raymond explains how their show is about THEIR MARRIAGE and the children will occasionally step in and out.   I Got You Babe will continue to be about Megs and I and our little lady will step in and out.  We are THRILLED to have this little girl be a HUGE part of our lives, but will keep the details to the blog below.

greganfamily2.blogspot.com will be our SECRET (if you will) family/baby/picture blog.  THE CATCH!, this blog will be private.  IF you would like to see pictures of our sweet little lady, hear about her antics, generally stay in the baby "know", KNOW US WELL and WE KNOW YOU WELL, leave a comment or email me with your email address. 

She is ALMOST HERE!

THANKS! 

Mgmt Core - Section 1

This semester at school all of my classes were added by envelope, which means I have all five classes with the same people, same hour of the day, even same class room all day long.  Aka, Management Core Section 1.

This is nice and all, but can become a little monotonous.  Each day I sit in the same seat, next to the same people, same time of day . . . so on and so on.  I know this is how real work is, but you always expect something different from school.

Anywho, with so much the same I try all I can to either keep me occupied to interested.  The other day brought on these two events.

#1 - The Laptop case vs. The Man bag/purse

Every class has its crazy.  Our sits on the front row and makes awkward comments about most things.  I found myself getting really annoyed with him easily.  He just kinda got under my skin.  SO, I made a plan to find something each day about him that will help me laugh rather than complain.  The other day was THIS:

  This is Stan's (I will name him Stan for good-will maintenance sake) bag.  He bring it everyday with his regulars: books, laptop, snacks that have LOUD wrappers, a powdered drink mix that he makes DURING CLASS, and his NAIL CLIPPERS (pet peeve #, well what-ever number is HIGH UP THERE; clipping finger/toenails in public and letting your clippings just FLY ANYWHERE THEY PLEASE!)  Stan is convinced that this is a ethnic laptop bag, but I beg to differ.  Stan wears a MAN BAG and this makes me laugh.

#2 - OB Egg Drop.

My Organizational Behavior professor is smile-a-mile Bingham.  He has HR written all over him.  Last week we did a team building exercise in which we had ten minute to construct a contraption out of straws and tape that would protect an egg from a twenty foot drop.

This is ours.  It looked cool.  We named it  . . . well we didn't name it, but if we would have I would have named it The Eggmeister 3000.

 

 

 

We lost.  On the stinkin' first drop.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Oh, yeah and my new Marketing Intership desk at ESG.  On top of school, work, and new baby I do market research and strategy for ESG.  AND they allow me to do it for FREE!

 

 

 

. . . .

. . .

I just realized that this is not a cohesive post, but I have invested too much time into it to erase or modify it.  I am sorry.  Just accept me for who I am.