I Got You Babe

Grandma

2012-01-23T21:13:00.001-07:00

Today was the funeral of my last living great grandparent, grandma Zola Mariam Alger Larsen.

She was 98 and I loved her. My earliest memories of her include perfectly manicured hair, those grandma glasses, dresses with lacy collars and the best yellow apples I have EVER eaten. Her and grandpa lived in Manti only yards from that beautiful temple, and when we visited her house I was always excited to sneak a glimpse of the portal toilet they kept next to the guest bed. She was born amongst horse and buggies and probably died with her 4G smart phone next to her bed. THAT is amazing. SHE is amazing. What a life and what a legacy.

As we sat awaiting the family prayer, I was overcome with a feeling that I have never had at a funeral before. I have experienced the peace that attends the passing of a family member or friend, but today I was invigorated. After Uncle Leon finished the prayer, I was nearly moved to a audible cheer as I was overcome with the feeling of victory and confidence; victory for a life so gracefully lived and confidence in the promise of eternal life.

The service was touching, sweet, and full of the Spirit of the Lord. It was an honor to learn more about my sweet grandmother and visit with family that I have not seen in years, but even more wonderful was the reassurance that she lives on. I was moved to tears not because of sadness, but because of joy. Though not as many as I would have liked, I love that I have the memories that I do with my wonderful grandmother. I love the promise of eternal life in which I will sit with her again and make even more memories. I love the picture of her standing with my valiant great grandfather once again reuniting with her family and friends. I love the promises of the Restored Gospel.

"And I soon go to the place of my rest, which is with my Redeemer; for I know that in him I shall rest. And I rejoice in the day when my mortal shall put on immortality, and shall stand before him; then shall I see his face with pleasure, and he will say unto me: Come unto me, ye blessed, there is a place prepared for you in the mansions of my Father." (Enos 1:27)

I love what I know.

Kill 'em with Karma

2012-01-19T15:53:00.003-07:00

I work in a very dramatic industry. Almost daily I "talk people off the ledge" and keep them from "jumping out the window". I'm being serious. It's a delight, really.

Anyhow, there is a specific "lady" in the corporate office that takes the histrionic cake, blows it up, and smears its remains on her face as a sort of melodramatic war paint, and, completely unbeknown st to me, I fell from her good graces on a certain Tuesday (I know this because a coworker informed me that she is telling people that I "don't know a hole in the wall from my own head.") Now, I know I shouldn't give her distaste for me much weight because I'm probably just her Nemesis of the Hour, but I still find it unsettling that someone out there dislikes me for no reason at all. Come on, if you are going to detest me enough to talk crap on me, at least do it for a quality reason. Unfounded annoyance is a waste of every one's time.

So, I was sitting at work being annoyed about her orneriness and on comes a swift and wicked bout of stomach flu. I was miserable, but I needed to stay at work for at least a few more hours. To give my coworkers relief from my moaning (I believe that moaning actually alleviates the pangs of the flu), I decided to take my lunch break and nap in my car. After resting up, I headed back towards the parking garage stairs and heard a raspy scream and a deep thud. Unable to move much faster than a geriatric shuffle, I got to the steps as quickly as I could. When I arrived, the sight in front of me was nothing short of pathetic.

(artist's rendition...actual steps)

That same cantankerous coworker who libeled and defamed me was now laying in a pile of her own self on the hard concrete steps. I'm not proud of what happened next (I am throwing it out to my diminished mental state), but after giving her a good 3-second stare I simply and slowly stepped over her. Luckily my conscious kicked in and I turned to her and asked if she was okay. Apparently she had slipped on the icy steps (the stairs are covered and heated . . . ) on her way to a doctor's appointment. The devil on my left shoulder told me to apologize and walk on, but the angel on the right won out this time I an offered to walk her to her car.

We shared a 3-minute linked arm embrace to her car and then she was on her way. It's now been a couple weeks, we've eaten lunch in the same room, but we have not even breathed a word of this experience. I'm resolute though because I may not know the difference between a hole and my head, but I was there in her pathetic and embarrassing moment of need. There's no price you can put on that . . . this visual is enough.

I'm considering her killed with karma.

PB Loco

2012-01-17T17:04:00.001-07:00

Resolution trashed, but I'm back.

So, you may know that I have this unhealthy addition to Peanut Butter (I capitalized it because I give PB the respect it deserves). I've come to terms with it, but not enough to fix it.

The other day I was home alone for about an hour so I began reviewing my to-be-viewed DVR'd shows and came across a new episode of UNWRAPPED (an AWESOME show from the Food Network. It's like a marriage between those fascinating how it's made clips from Mr. Rodgers and FOOD. Genius) entitled Peanut Butter Bites. First I gasped then I ran upstairs and made myself a Peanut Butter/Chocolate Dipper in preparation to settle down with no distractions. The next 22 minutes changed my life. As Marc Summers was running from factory to factory showing the inside scoop on all things Peanut Butter, I got more and more excited . . . then it happened: PB Loco!

Marc introduced a restaurant chain known as PB Loco: an ENTIRE cafe/restaurant dedicated to PEANUT BUTTER. I nearly drooled and even blushed a bit watching them unveil their PB Concoctions. I DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU to check out the menu.

MENU!

I'm specifically intrigued by the following menu items:

BACON . . . and PEANUT BUTTER. Who'd a thought? . . . PB LOCO did! I could kiss its creator on the mouth!

After already planning my next stop to its founding store in Phoenix, AZ, I did a little further research to discover that PB Loco just couldn't swim the swamp of recession and closed its doors last year. . . I had a moment of silence, but was quickly rejuvenated by the idea of PB LOCO FRIEND DINNER NIGHT! Read it and weep, the Gregans will be hosting a PB LOCO DINNER NIGHT (details to follow. You gluten frees are welcome to tag along, we're a GF Friendly household)

Get excited because this is gonna be AWESOME!

I'm gonna change the world

2012-01-10T22:39:00.001-07:00

I just don't quite know how yet.

"God is eagerly waiting for the chance to answer your prayers and fulfill your dreams, just as he always has. But he can't if you don't pray, and he can't if you don't dream. In short, he can't if you don't believe." -Jeffrey R. Holland

Welcome to Real Life

2012-01-09T23:02:00.000-07:00

This is what I have had to tell myself over the past couple of days. I DID set a goal for daily posting, but I have already failed...

HOWEVER, I am moving on with REVISED REALITY! Allow me to define this reality: though I may not post daily, I AM recommitted to the blogging world. I even have a few great posts pre-written in my head!

So don't be let down, be EXCITED! This way you get more substance per post, ya know?

Allow me to post a picture to hold you over.

This has got to be one of the greatest pictures I have seen in a long time. I LOVE my Little Ladies!

For now, I'm going to bed. I tired and my stomach still hurts a bit.

Good night.

...

2012-01-06T21:38:00.001-07:00

No one deserves to be sick on a Friday.

Monkey See, Monkey...Breast Feed?

2012-01-05T20:30:00.001-07:00

I knew my Little Lady was a quick learner, but this takes it to a new level.

Fancy Nasty (that's right, she calls her "Fancy Nasty") sure is getting the 5-star treatment.

You've GOT to be Kidding Me . . .

2012-01-04T18:39:00.000-07:00

Aspiring doctor or pissed off papa harboring a stomach flu inflicted 2-year old?

It breaks my heart to hold my sweet daughter while she vomits AND it breaks her heart that her DADDY had to braid her hair back out of her face - I gots no skill in the lady hair department and momma and baby have been banished from the bedroom.

We've all been vitamined, watered, essential oiled, and watered again.

Here's hoping that our little ladies both come out unscathed from this little bump in the road.

Women's Lib

2012-01-03T19:31:00.001-07:00

She makes her own decisions, got it.

Welcome to my life.

Outcast

2012-01-03T00:25:00.001-07:00

Disclaimer - after midnight posts still count for "a post a day". Got it?!

World, my guitar. My guitar, the world.

Now that you have been properly introduced I can explain our relationship. It is a relationship of mockery, really. My guitar sits in the corner, the dark, dusty, lonely corner and mocks me of what could have been.

But let's start at the beginning...

I have always wanted to learn to play the guitar. From an early age I always thought it to be so awesome. Some of my earliest memories are of my father sitting in the front room on a Saturday morning playing his guitar along with whatever was on the radio. I never understood how he knew what to play, but he did and he did it amazingly well. I have always envisioned that I would offer my children this same Saturday morning memory. Also, as I grew up it appeared that all the cool kids learned to play. I remember a particular night in Jr. High. A new kid had just moved in and a group of kids invited him to a party we had that night. The party was going great and I was doing the best I could to send out the "vibes" to the woman of my dreams. Then just when I felt she was starting to feel the heat, it happened - that damned new kid pulled out his guitar and played his love ballads. The girls in the room were like moths to a flame; a new, exciting, NOT ME flame. I was pissed, threw a little fit and left the party early. One day I WOULD be one to pull out my guitar and draw the ladies away from HIM with my siren song. This was my vow.

So how did I pursue this dream, you ask? Well, I didn't. As puberty played its last few jokes, I took on more of the "funny, smart, kind, yet . . . special spirit" identity (when I say "special spirit" I mean zitty, slightly greased, and rotund kinda fella, ya know). And while the other Gaston-types plucked away on their love harps, us "special spirits" focused on our lasting and meaningful social skills rather than our peacock strut.

Then...

Cue: Mission and a two-year delay.
Cue: Dating, work, and school
Cue: Marriage, finances, and responsibility
Cue: Being too busy for my own good, but secretly loving it
Cue: A friend that THREW free lessons at me, but I never really was able to take them
Cue: A father who bought me an entire library of HowTo Guitar CDs that I never have time for
Cue: ChildREN
Cue: Life

That catches me up to today and the current state of my relationship with my guitar. . . which is pretty much non existent. No happy ending here, at least YET. It is still on my dreams list, but right now the thought of taking it on kind of overwhelms me. Maybe when the current dust settles and before the next storm arises I will surprise myself and learn a few songs.

So why blog on this, you ask? Well, for starters I believe that addressing our problems/concerns is step one. Two - I like to be reminded of my "life list" and that there really is a "too late". Three - I needed to post.

Here's to fulfilling dreams and never giving up.

Banner Blow Up

2012-01-01T22:21:00.000-07:00

Emmalee has been talking about Olivia since the day we told her that Megan was pregnant. In fact, for a two year old, Emmalee grasped Megan's pregnancy remarkably well. It's like Emmalee knew this was coming. She has talked about what she will look like, what she will like to sing, what she will like to eat, the color of her eyes, and how she was going to teach Olivia the finer points of potty training and princess etiquette. Emmalee would grab Megan's belly and talk, kiss, and sing to her baby sister. She has been nothing less than elated to meet her little sister.

Megan and I talked about if this fascination would last once Emmalee actually met her baby sister, but from the moment they first met it was apparent that Emmalee was HOOKED. Their first meeting was more of a reunion than a initial greeting. It was a sweet experience that I will never forget (thank you cousin Cherie for capturing this moment so beautifully).

Emmalee is the perfect big sister and consistently reaffirms that "I's will be hers protector because hers is fragile." Emmalee is in love.

HOWEVER, we got our first whiff of sibling confrontation tonight. This evening Emmalee walked into her room (which is now the GIRL'S ROOM) and noticed the new BABY OLIVIA banner that Megan received from her baby shower. Emmalee starred at the banner for bit, looked over at the frame with her name in it, back at the banner, placed her hands on her hips and exclaimed, "Baby Olivia's name is bigger than mine." Megan walked in on this moment and attempted to diffuse the situation by explaining that Olivia's banner is not necessarily bigger, but just to the side of Emmalee's frame. Emmalee did not buy this weak attempt and once again proclaimed, "Baby Olivia's name...is bigger...than MINE. SEE!?"

Megan had nothing to do but agree.

We may need to reposition the banner. . .

Resolute

2011-12-31T19:31:00.001-07:00

I'm keeping this short and sweet. 2011 was great, but I'm embracing change and I am ready for new, now, next.

As of today I am establishing only one resolution (more tend to creep in throughout January anyway), I will blog each day for everyday of 2012. It may only be one picture and/or one word, but I'm doing it.

That's all.

Happy New Year!

Oh, and baby Olivia is perfect, Megan is amazing, and Emmalee is the best big sister. Details and photos to follow. I'm too tired today.

Peace out!

I'm too exited to sleep!

2011-12-28T06:42:00.001-07:00

I've been awake since 5am after a night of waking up hourly to look at the clock. The hospital said they would call some time this morning letting us know when we could come in. That is like telling a kid that Santa may come any given night during December...

What a tease.

Late Night Snack

2011-12-22T22:50:00.001-07:00

Sometimes you just need a whole family, all in the same bed, late night snack. Our weapon of choice: cottage cheese with Chipotle Rice and Bean chips!...followed by a dance party, of course.

Sympathy Hormones? . . .

2011-12-21T12:51:00.001-07:00

You know what, sometimes men get sentimental and sensitive. GET OVER IT!

I came across this Youtube video while reviewing the TOP 10 YOUTUBE VIDEOS OF 2011. I was surprised that that it got to me like it did because I am really not an animal, specifically a cat, person. BUT it made me think about my adorable Emmalee Ann and my amazing wife. It also got me even more excited for our new little lady (who will be here in 7 DAYS!).

Maybe I teared up a little bit . . . you shut up! I DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU to not be touched by this clip. Go on, I DARE YOU!

Now allow me to end on this manly note:

Happy Wednesday!

BRING IT!

2011-12-19T16:29:00.001-07:00

You know when you were a kid and it was getting close to your birthday or Christmas and life took on a surreal, head-in-the-clouds kinda feeling? You know, when it seemed like everything else around you didn’t matter and all you could focus on was the big day at hand? I do, but this year it only has a little to do with Christmas and a LOT to do with the the 28th. . . the day my newest Little Lady will be born!

Almost from the day we were married I told Megan on a regular basis that I was destined to father a group of girls. I like girls. I can handle girls (I know, I know. I say that now . . . ) I know girls and it would be my honor to father all girls. In fact (and I hesitantly admit this), a while back I was changing my nephews diaper and was really taken back with what was staring back at me. Now what on the earth do I do with THAT!? Then I calmed down and remembered that I had about 28 years experience with such objects and all was well, but my momentary panic really threw me for a loop. (my Little Man, IF you are out there, don’t you worry, we’ll figure it out just fine.)

But really, can you blame me? I am infatuated with my Little Lady.

I am sorry to have to break it to you, but she is the most beautiful, intelligent, charismatic, caring, talented, witty, funny, busy little lady I’ve ever met. About 6 or 7 times a day I think about stealing her, but then I realize that SHE IS ALREADY MINE! I can’t believe how blessed of a man I am.

So here’s to you, Olivia Mae, you may now join the likes of your big sister and wrap your father tight around your little finger.

I’M SO EXCITED!

Gentlemen (and Ladies), start. your. engines!

2011-12-16T15:04:00.001-07:00

New Year’s Resolution: start blogging again . . . as of January 1, 2012. Expect a DAILY post and personal picture. That’s right, let the celebration BEGIN!

Now, get me excited by commenting and letting me know if you even check this blog anymore (I wouldn’t blame if you stopped . . . I did.)

My Media Mind-boggler

2011-08-22T13:05:00.001-06:00

When it comes to media, I am unfortunately brain dead. I love movies, books, and music, but I could forget their finer points and details within days, if not minutes. I see people with sponge-like brains that absorb and quote all sorts of media and I am immediately and WHOLLY jealous. I want that! (I just quoted from Napoleon Dynamite – one of the few arrows I carry in my quote quiver.) Along with my hairy, right-hand, ring-finger, mid-knuckle abnormality this is one of my insecurities. So much so that I tend to make media a lesser priority in my life (maybe my way of avoiding the pain of my media dementia). I love going to the movies, but make excuses that they are too expensive. I love music, but only talk about songs to myself while in my car. I love books, but feel so UNDERread that I busy myself with other tasks. It is sick, really.

BUT, ask me random trivia about either anatomy, mechanics, psychology, culinary arts, or . . . anything else not related to my current life and I could probably come up with a lengthy answer – none of which really serves me any real purpose, but is tucked in there tight just ready to explode all over the next random situation that presents itself before me.

Cake, eat it too . . . COME ON!

So while waving my standard of Invictus, I am usurping the helm of my life and altering my fate for the better. Step one, attempt to catch myself up on the great movies of the past two years (Megan, I am putting you in charge of the classics). Behold . . .THE LIST! (please feel free to critique and/or suggest addtions):

2010

True Grit
The King’s Speech
Iron Man 2
How to Train Your Dragon
Robin Hood
Dinner for Schmucks
Prince of Persia
Eat, Pray, Love
The Karate Kid
Secretariat
Chronicals of Narnia
Shrek forever after

2011

17 Miracles
Rise of the Planet of the Apes
Captain America
The Help
Super 8
Limitless
Water for Elephants
Midnight in Paris
Rio
Green Lantern
Thor
Soul Surfer
Jane Eyre

Also, please feel free to list the BEST book/series you have recently read (Careful, huge book lists excite me . . . then overwhelm me.)

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

READY . . . . GO!

I’m a MONSTER!

2011-08-18T16:32:00.001-06:00

My wife and I do not do well with mess and/or clutter. If we find ourselves getting a little snippy with each other, it’s a sign that we should probably get a cleanin’. The past two weeks have been put us to the test, yet we’re surviving . . . barely.

Exhibit #1: This is what our bedroom looked like within only an hour of being home from vacation. . .

Our bedroom flooded while we were gone. THUS, we’ve been living in the front room until it is fixed by the HOA. Emmalee thinks it is a two-week slumber party. We are slowly going mad. Side sad – but funny – note: The two gentlemen showed up this morning to work on the basement until one of them shot himself in the leg with a nail gun and ended up in the hospital! I think the repairs may be hindered. Life.

I have not been myself lately. In fact, I have kind of let myself go. So much so that today I realized that I had dropped the ball on a secret I have kept quiet for years; a secret I was convinced I would take to my grave. A secret even I tried to forget; however, it’s too late now. The proverbial cat has climbed out of its bag . . . and I will no longer contain it.

Now revealing this is big for me. Why? Because I’ve hidden this for years. I never wanted anyone to see it because it disgusted me so much. I’ve been hindered and held back by this abnormality for far too long. Today it ends. Today I let it all hang out. Today is the day I look my oppressor in the face, reclaim him power over me, and proclaim “SCREW YOU!” Today is the day I WIN!

Behold . . . my monstrosity.

Can you see it! Don’t look away. Isn’t is HORRIBLE!? Right there on my right-hand ring finger. Two long, repulsive, random HAIRS! Thick, dark, grow-as-fast-as-a-damned-weed HAIRS! They DISGUST me! (There used to be three until I plucked the life out of one of them). I have traditional succumbed to their demands and plucked them regularly, but apparently the flood has distracted me. Like a thief in the night they have sprouted on me and grown out of control.

Regardless, there you have it.

Life Checklist - Liberate yourself from hideous secret: CHECK!

2011-08-10T01:35:00.001-06:00

Little Lady update! About FREAKING time!

It’s not even NOON . . .

2011-07-26T11:39:00.002-06:00

. . . and my day is AWESOME!

6:00am – Woke up early and did me a little P90X XSTRETCH! Unlike the other P90X disks, this workout is welcoming and a peaceful, early start to the day.

7:30am – My daughter woke up and immediately declared: “Daddy, let’s put on a show, lay on the couch, and snuggle!” So we did!

7:55am – I kissed by bride goodbye and headed to an appointment with a new doctor. New doctors make me a little anxious. I always want them to be great, but not all are created equal. This doctor was GREAT!

9:00am – It was amazingly sunny outside!

9:15am – Went to the dentist. From an earlier post you will know how I can feel about the dentist . . . but NOT TODAY! My gorgeous wife was there to greet me, the hygienist didn’t over talk (in fact, she just let me lay there with my eyes closed), and the dentist was quick and EASY. NO CAVITIES!

9:45am – It was STILL amazingly sunny outside!

9:55am – Got gas at Smith’s Marketplace (I LOVE this store!) and got an amazing gas discount!

10:00am – easy commute to work

10:30am – got into work with NO mean emails and THESE TWO gifts on my desk!

My work is doing the new WALKaDAY fitness program. It includes a new water bottle and a PEDOMETER. I don’t know why I am so excited about the pedometer, but I AM! LOOK OUT Mall Walkers. My pedometer and I are ready to powerwalk your A outta here!
A coworker generously surprised me with 101 ESSENTIAL BONSAI TIPS. We had a conversation a while back about my aspirations to become proficient in the ways of the Bonsai. I think it will be a great side hobby while at work; HOWEVER, I have yet to get started. She left a note indicating that she believes in dreams and wants to help jumpstart mine. What a thoughtful measure. I will be heading to Cactus and Tropicals very soon to pursue my dreams!

10:35am – I took the next link off of my 2011 COUNTDOWN TO SUN VALLEY PAPERCLIP CHAIN!

1:00pm – I will be headed to the Rec Center to get my swim on with the old men (Between the mall walkers and Rec Center Walruses (that’s what I like to call them) I am just around the corner to breaking my OWN hip!)

5:00pm – Headed home to see my beautiful wife and little lady. Anticipating that it will still be sunny.

What a DAY!

Facebook Frustrations

2011-07-25T15:38:00.002-06:00

(Disclaimer: To be read with a light-heart. When it comes to trivial things, I am not to be taken too seriously . . . unless I state otherwise.)

I like Facebook . . .

. . . and I don’t have a problem saying it either. I enjoy that Facebook offers me unique, low-commitment friend connections/supplements and digitized “open mic” opportunities. I like that I can casually peruse people’s pictures and update MYSELF on the happenings in their life as much, or as little, as I would like. I like that I can make funny, bold, or random comments on friend’s statuses. I like seeing where my friends are “checked in” at. I like telling people where I am “checked in at”. I like to see which two of MY friends are friends with each other that I normally would not have been aware of. I like posting my thoughts on Facebook. I love when people comment on my thoughts. I accept Facebook for WHAT IT IS and I enjoy it!

I will now make a small list of things that I DO NOT like about Facebook?

The DOWNPLAYED Facebooker. I roll my eyes at people on Facebook that downplay how much they like Facebook. You don’t have to like it as much as me. You can like it MUCH MORE than me; however, you are on Facebook for a reason. Whatever it is, OWN IT! No one is judging you.

The PUBLICALLY-ELUSIVE Facebooker. I have PERSONALLY AGREED to add you as a friend on Facebook. We may not be the best of friends, but I have chosen to add/accept your Facebook Friendship. DO NOT act weird around me when we see each other in person. I am not expecting a hug (nor do I want one), but at least look at me, wave, and say “Hi Greg. Good to see you.” Acknowledge what you know. Hiding it just makes things so awkward and you WILL promptly be Facebook DE-friended.

The WHINY Facebooker. We all get out our frustrations. It helps reminds each other that we are all human. It keeps us in check. HOWEVER, run your posts through your social filter at least twice before posting. Maybe your never-ending rants are starting to drag us all down.

The EASILY-OFFENDED Facebooker. It’s Facebook, people! It is a semi-public arena in which MANY different people from MANY different walks of life can mingle, and YOU are the puppet master! (aka, you are the one allowing which people invade YOUR semi-public arena) If you do not approve of someone else’s opinion/thoughts, remove them. It’s that simple. I have removed a few people (and their opinions) that I felt were outside of what I wanted to spend my time on. There is no point in harboring ill will against me yet maintaining me as a Facebook Friend. If you don’t, it will most likely result in a PUBLICALLY-ELUSIVE moment and I will remove you anyway. Remember William Ernest Henley’s INVICTUS: “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.”

That felt good to get off my chest.

In case you were wondering, I have similar thoughts on Fast Food and television.

I’m a little Obsessed

2011-07-24T17:06:00.002-06:00

I wish I could capture the essence of my adorable little Emmalee Ann and share it in a post. You would fall in love.

She is only 2, but she is witty, funny, compassionate, smart, emotional, and a MOTOR MOUTH. Her little brain can comprehend big thoughts. She makes jokes, writes songs, creates dances, and narrates elaborate tales (most of which includes her, Rapunzel, as the mom and whomever else is in the room as Eugene, the daddy – go watch Tangled). Her vocabulary and sentence structure is extraordinarily accurate, yet hilarious.

She struggles with her personalized tenses (i.e., “Mine must go skipping right now. Mine too happy not to.” and “Mine thinks I’m so fancy in this new princess skirt”) She is well aware of her options and her ability to set them. (Me – “Emmalee, can I have a hug?” Em (head tilted and face squished) “Um, mine sorry. Not today.”) In fact, she just asked me to meet her in her room. Upon my arrival she announced that she had laid out all of her “beautiful clothing options.”

She is very neat and orderly. She LOVES all things princess. In fact, her princesses participate in approximately 4 bathtub parades per week.

She is a little obsessed with Keva Juice and the term “oopsie doo".

She likes expensive, yet classy things.

I am a little obsessed with my Little Lady.

Weekend Warriors

2011-07-18T19:37:00.001-06:00

This weekend Megs and I took to the road with Beth and Steve and set our coarse for sunny ST. GEORGE!

We began our ROAD WARRIORHOOD with the best of intentions . . ., but then needed a break about 45 minutes into our journey. (Unfortunately, the idea and hindsight of the road trip ends up being more exciting than actually driving itself.)

We made our first stop at the Red Barn. That’s right, it’s a red barn in the middle of nowhere that sells random sweets. Why wouldn’t we stop?

Then OFFICIALLY began the three hour drive. We laughed, I napped, Steve and Megs talked about and analyzed their favorite songs, we overate extra tart dried cherries and Sun Chips, we pit stopped in Cedar, and then we laughed a little more.

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We pulled into St. George and set our priorities . . . we drove straight to Benja’s Thai Cuisine! We indulged ourselves on Green Curry much spicier than expected, sushi (even I had a piece), ginger chicken, and spring rolls. We learned how to appropriately Soy Sauce our food and split our chopsticks from Steve and Beth escaped an early, laugh-induced death.

We checked in Beth’s family Cottage, took a late night stroll through the golf course, laid down on the tee box of hole #9, gazed at the stars for approx. 22 seconds, began screaming as I was hit directly in the face and we were under a foreign attack, took another 3 seconds to realize it was the rainbird sprinklers, ran to safety, laughed so hard I almost vomited, dried off, walked home, talked for hours, then went to bed.

After about three hours of sleep, I took an early-morning journey to pick up our FIRST Bountiful Basket. It was full of great fruit, veggies, and a couple things I have never seen before. The morning was full of omelets, fudge from the Red Barn, lounging, more laughing, and a little of the Wii. (If you look extra closely, you will see Steve’s approval of me taking his early-morning head shot.)

Chillaxin’

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The afternoon was full of the pool, sunbathing, a failed attempt at a back dive, more sun, and YES even a trip to go get our feets did. (you’re only judging me if you have never had it done before. Consider yourself double-dog dared! It MAY just be the best thing you’ll ever treat yourself to.)

After another relaxing evening of Brick Oven, A GARBAGE BAG FULL of pebble ice, movies, and more late-night laughter we turned in.

Sunday we lazed it up, watched more movies, cleaned, and prepped for another 4-hour drive home . . . BUT not before I took the scoot for a test drive.

Scootin’

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Moral of the story . . . it’s fun to have fun with fun friends in sunny, beautiful weather.

The Rabbit Test is . . .

2011-07-12T12:51:00.002-06:00

. . . AFFIRMATIVE!

(I’ll leave it up to the good folks at M*A*S*H to explain the rabbit bit)

That’s right, we are gonna have ourselves a new BABY and we could not be more excited!

When: The end of December/first of January

Where: Hopefully in a comfortable hospital bed

What: TBD

How: Mind your own business!

Now, I could have told you the same way Meg told me, but I will spare you the gory details. Curious? You want to know? Tell you NOW!? Okay pipe down, I’ll tell you.

So I am involved in a busy, meeting-full day at work, you see, when Meg begins to call me over and over. I silence my phone and send her a quick text indicating that I will call her back in about an hour. She replies with THIS picture message entitled “will you call me back NOW!?” . . .

I left my meeting and called her back. . .

Break the Block

2011-07-10T13:33:00.001-06:00

I have blogger’s block . . . I REcommitted to blog, considered a few great posts, sat down to write . . . nothin’. I need the juices to start flowing. I need the ideas to translate to the computer. So, in an attempt to “prime the posting pump” I am presenting you, my dear reader, with my most recent phone photos (one of my favorite pastimes is to take random photos with my phone. I never know what I am going to do with them, but I still enjoy taking them.) Sit back, relax, open your mind to randomness, and enjoy!:

ONE GUESS on where this toilet it located! . . .THE CHURCH. I am serious. What a great way to simply “mark your territory”.

I went with some co-workers to a Greek restaurant in Sugar House to enjoy my first Shawarma. I love me some foreign food and enjoyed it thoroughly. They didn’t. They said that it was too different from what they remembered, but then again neither one of them served in Greece. Go figure.

If Diner’s, Drive-ins, and Dives visited it I guarantee I will love it! (visit Food Network Local to find Food Network approved restaurants around you!) This AWESOME calzone is from the Rusted Sun Pizzeria in SLC. EAT IT! I would also recommend Moochie’s Meatballs and Ruth’s Diner. . . I LOVE GOOD FOOD!

Dear Modern Civilization: This is a picture of the urinal at work. This is also a picture of the urinal that I was inflicted with a URINAL CONVERSATION at. . . this is a NO GO! GOT IT!? I will speak with you once I am socially presentable, washed up, and ready to look you in the eyes. Allow me my 45 seconds of peace. Allow me this time . . . conversation free. Thank you.

I’m the Cubmaster. (Are you listening to a Akella’s Call? . . . anyway) I was in charge of arranging this year’s Nature Hike. It was suggested that I coordinate with a fellow member of the Stake who loves the outdoors and would love to guide the hike. I wholeheartedly put the lives of all of my Cubscouts, their parents, their siblings, and myself in his able hands. All until we hiked up the RAGING river to THIS MOTHER FRIGGIN’ BRIDGE! . . . That’s right, a rickety, branch and twine, HANDMADE bridge that crossed the raging water of DEATH inches below . . . I stood in the middle and literally held the young cubscouts and children across. Mothers were crying, little girls were screaming, and I saw my life pass before my eyes. . .

I have a feeling that I will be released soon . . .

Our new family obsession: KEVA JUICE! Emmalee likes to get her own, got it!?

A poster of this guy is hanging on Chuck Norris’ bedroom wall. This may be the BEST sniper-shot I have EVER taken on my cell phone. I was in line at the bank and purposely stood within his personal bubble just to get him to turn around and look at me. JUST LOOK AT THE MAJESTY that is his handlebar mustache!

Truckers for Jesus! I couldn’t have been happier to run into this truck driver while battling traffic the other day (seriously, I almost ran into him trying to get my phone out!)

During my lunch break the other day I wandered on down to the Thomasville furniture store below my work. I took a jaunt around reviewing quality furniture options for my future home. I came across this virile bookshelf complete with sliding ladder. This sold, high-end craftsmanship would add a touch of strength, class, and beauty to your home for only . . . wait for it . . . $33,000! I am in the wrong business.

If the bookshelf is too rich for your furniture blood, you could scale down with this hand-crafted Crane sculpture for only $3,000. They have something for every budget! . . . If I happen to see this stationed in ANY of your homes be ready to be hit upside the head and then be solicited for a bit of “spare change.” Some people’s kids . . .

Though I cannot give you a precise reason why, Smith’s Marketplace is one of my favorite places to be. It just got EVEN BETTER now with delicious gelato that you can eat while you shop. If I ever go missing, look for my here.

Don’t tell Megs, but I am having a little side love affair with peanut butter and chocolate. I have always defaulted to Reeses until I came across THIS GEM of a treat. A small scoop of Skippy CRUNCHY PB dipped in a handful of Nestle Semi-Sweet chocolate chips. Judge me now . . . thank me later!

One of my new favorite restaurants is SIMPLY THAI in South SLC. They have amazing Thai cuisine that will leave you smiling the remainder of the day. While enjoying my lunch the other day we elected to finish things off with dessert . . . Sticky Rice with Mango and Coconut Cream Sauce . . . drooling, drooling. If you are in the mood for a culturally exciting, mind blowing party in your mouth, call me and we will go!

So, every man has to prove himself in varying degrees of life circumstances, right? I have a friend that insists that every man should have to kill and cook his own food at one point in his life. I can’t do that crap so I just watch videos of hunting and humane animal slaughter on Youtube, with my eyes half open. I believe that this fulfills that requirement. I have also discovered a new manhood test: Going into the Ward’s basement, standing inches away from this buffalo, looking him directly in his artificial, glass eye, and trying not to collapse and/or cry. I am getting better. I’m becoming a man; no, a warrior.

This was my lunch break the other day. The only thing that could have made this better? . . . peanut butter and chocolate chips on a spoon. Welcome to summer!

There you have it. Here’s hoping that this Breaks the Block and allows the posting flood gates to open! I have a few ideas in the works. You should should be excited.

I THINK I’m Coming Back . . .

2011-06-18T16:55:00.001-06:00

If there are any of you out there that still even CHECK this blog . . . I think I’m pulling it out of retirement.

Life is too funny, too rich, too dramatic, too unreal NOT to blog about it. Besides, I have all kinds of crap that I need to get out.

SO, if you are willing to help, let me know where I need to REstart my blogging. I need a few suggestions, a few ideas, and a few directions to get me going again.

. . . YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!

Newest love of my life

2011-01-14T23:31:00.007-07:00

I will eventually get to posting about Christmas, but we all know what a daunting task that is. So, instead of tackling that tonight, I will just show you my newest crush!

Meet Pheobe! She is full of life, so adorable, and as sweet and obedient as a 2 months old puppy can be!

I know what you are all thinking... and NO she is not mine. How could I handle 2 toddlers at a time?!... I can't. I am struggling through potty training one child the best I can. NO way would I add another one into that mix. However, when your 22 month old child answers your question "Emmalee what do you want" with "...Umm a baby sissor!" Maybe you should start thinking about making that happen for her. Seriously... I melted into a big old puddle on the ground and didn't have the strength to pull myself together after that little comment! Who is teaching my child about these things?... I don't even think I have explained to her what a sister is and that a sister is a girl. I smell foul play! Brooke?!.. Cheryl?!...

Ok.. I am sorry, I detoured. Back to Pheobs. Emmalee and Pheobs are the best of friends. Em rolls on the ground with her, kisses her, dances with her, and even likes to take her out to use the ladies room. I have yet to catch Em feeding her, which is good for Emmalee. Aunt Krista, who is Pheobe's Mama, would have a very stern conversation with Em if she saw that.

Pheobe is everyone's best friend! I love dogs! They are the most accepting creatures alive!

And this is what Emmalee and Ben were doing Christmas morning as we all snuggled and circled around the newest member of the family.... Never a dull moment with these two!

2011-01-06T11:48:00.002-07:00

I want to be good at blogging, really I do. I just cant seem to get the motivation to do so though. When I have free time I think of a MILLION other things that I need and want to do over blogging, but I always feel slightly guilty that the blog has been put in a corner.

So, here is my post to supress my concious... I blogged. It was meaningless, but I did it.

2010-12-23T11:39:00.000-07:00

Little Lady Update

2010-11-02T00:47:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update!

Falling for… FALL

2010-10-12T12:08:00.001-06:00

Warning: This post will not be about anything profound or important.. I just hate that the blog has not been updated in FOREVER. (And I secretly cringe every time I see that darn dental picture below. Lets get rid of it shall we?!)

I used to consider myself a Summer girl. Through and through. I LOVE Summer. I love to swim, NOT sunbathe. I do not like laying out. It bores the goodness right out of me. I love warm Summer nights. I love going on walks… sometimes 2-3 times a day! I love Summer clothes, food, activities, vacations, and of course the holidays. Summer reminds me of carefree, childhood days! It reminds me of Summer love. Which if you ask me, is the best time to be in love! I just LOVE Summer. Although I love Spring almost as much.. Summer has always been my Season.

BUT, this year I have fallen in love with Fall. I love the crisp air, changing leaves, the food, the HOLIDAYS, and the CLOTHES (especially the Little Lady’s clothes. I am DY-ING over her cute little tunic’s and stretch pants, paired with boots! LOVE LOVE LOVE!) I love the colors of Fall. I LOVE bundling up with Miss Emmalee and going on morning walks. I used to get anxiety from the Fall. That is when school started. And a little, well kept secret of mine is that I get anxiety when thrown into new situations. I am completely intimidated by meeting new people. I LOVE having wonderful friends and family. I LOVE being comfortable. I LOVE people. BUT, I do not like putting myself out there and having to prove who I really am. I just like people to KNOW me. Really know me. I love to spend hours talking to one person, rather than making the rounds to handfuls of people. I prefer in depth conversations full of emotions and stories, rather than skimming the surface. I used to get teased about how social I was… truth is, I just surrounded myself with social people who made it A LOT easier! Good thing I married the man I did. I didn’t think it was possible to marry a man who stayed in better contact with my friends, but he does! I think they secretly like him better anyway!

I suppose, all things in opposition right?! However, I don’t think I will ever be as much in love with Winter as I am these three Seasons. It just WILL NOT happen. I need warmth. I need the sun! Snow is good for the month of December and part of January, then I am done. I need green!

2010-08-30T00:36:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update.

And with Good Reason

2010-07-10T15:31:00.001-06:00

I have been a little tired lately, thus I have not blogged. I have been working nights at the theatre, going to Lagoon with the wife and babe, installing ceiling fans, and . . . WORKING AT UNITED APPRAISAL MANAGEMENT!

That’s right, ladies and gentlemen, I gots me one of those job things! It has been quite a few months, stress, frustration, let down, excitement, low-keyness, and heart burn, but THE TIME HAS COME.

United Appraisal Management is the appraisal management division with Republic Mortgage in SLC. I am the Operations Manager. It may sound kinda boring to you, but it is actually quite exciting and I am pumped and ready. I started Wednesday and am working to get things in full swing.

I have so many thoughts and emotions going through my head and I am going to share those another day soon (I just finished running sound for the kids show at the theatre and my brain has turned off until I have to go back later tonight.)

So, until that glorious day, I bid you a fond farewell for now.

Dental Shout-Out

2010-06-28T17:05:00.001-06:00

I like pretty teeth, but I hate the dentist. WHY, you ask? Dentists (more so, their ASSistants) find pleasure in verbally assaulting you when your teeth DARE be anything less than perfect. AND they have the upper hand because your mouth is full of their fingers and you can’t respond or defend yourself.

Case-in-point: Last time I was at the dentist, the pompous assistant asks while haughtily scrapping away at my teeth, “So, how much soy sauce DO you eat? . . .” WHAT!? How in the world do I EVEN begin to form a response to such an asinine question? Cups per month? Drops per hour? ASSININE! (DEFENSE! I have relatively nice teeth and eat hardly ANY soy sauce, thank you very much)

The only other occupation that rivals this is a computer tech with their condescending lingo and personal jabs. Yeah, I WANTED that virus to find its way on my computer. OF COURSE, I LIKE it when my computer runs slower than molasses. I don’t care that I did not know to run an HK-3561 scan before I upload my Vex350. THAT IS WHY I AM ASKING YOU, you idiot!

I do NOT pay people for insults (they come so easily on their own). I pay you to shut your trap and clean my teeth!

Sorry, I digress.

SO, today I reluctantly ventured to the dentist. (It has actually been a couple years - you know, poor college students with no insurance - and I was a little anxious. Megs had gotten her teeth cleaned a month back and when I found out how much they charged her I almost hit the floor. SO, my sweet wife did a little investigation and found a new dentist in town that was running a new patient deal. $39 for exam, x-ray, and cleaning! She signed me up!) I walked in a put on my happy face. Long of the short . . . it was the MOST ENJOYABLE dental visit I have had since I could lay down and watch the train go in circles when I was getting my braces tightened. NO RIDICULE. NO JABS. Just a straight forward and honest exam, x-ray, and cleaning. Even though the dentist informed me that I have FOUR cavities to serviced (another story for another day . . .aka, my last dentist did not fix my last ones like he was supposed to . . .), he still did it with respect and dignity and gave me the benefit of the doubt. I walked out a happy man . . . then I realized how much cavities suck to have fixed.

KIDS, listen up!: When the dentist tells you to floss twice a day, he means it . . .

I am a big believer that good business deserved a BIG SHOUT-OUT! SO, . . .

ALPENGLOW DENTAL

Give ‘em a try.

Paternal Awesomeness

2010-06-23T23:35:00.001-06:00

So, Father’s Day . . . AWESOME! Wanna know why?

The Breakdown:

The day was started with a little French Toast con milk. Emmalee and I shared while watching a little MoMo (aka, Finding Nemo). We got ready and then off to my parents for lunch. We gifted it up and then we churched it up and went to Brooke and Dan’s (I WOULD have inserted a link to Brooke’s blog here, but then again she went “private” and stopped blogging . . .Guilt trip? Yes.) for little baby Eden’s blessing. We then did dinner at Meg’s parent’s house. Here, Meg convinced me to take a little fifteen minute sabbatical from Lent (FYI, this was the FIRST and ONLY!) and had me try half of each cupcake (chocolate chocolate, coconut, and lemonade cupcakes . . . it was worth it!), but don’t tell anyone. Went home and ended the night with a great summer evening stroll with my two favorite ladies. Awesome.

The Gifts:

So, my wife ROCKS and showered me (we “talked” about limits, but apparently she was deaf then) with awesomeness! In response to my earlier post entitled Mein Kampf, my wife retaliated with THESE!:

These are great books that help you in the “real” world of food. You know, when you are in line at Wendy’s, what you should REALLY pick over what you THINK is bad. (You would be shocked with a few of the things we have read. In a few cases, chicken is NOT the best way to go.)

AND THIS!

That’s right, Rocco Dispirito’s awesome cookbook! He has revamped come of our favorite recipes and made them calorically manageable! FOR EXAMPLE!

Figure friendly BBQ RIBS!

AND . . .

General Tso’s Chicken! I officially approve of this one!

AND . . . be excited! . . .

Jalapeno Poppers! I’m gettin’ all goose fleshy just THINKING about them!

FINALLY . . . drum roll please . . .

CHOCOLATE BROWNIES!!! Check out the stats on these:

If you are nice, maybe you will be the recipient of many of these recipes.

In additional to the above awesomeness, my wife also showered me with this:

A WONDERFUL Daddy and ME book that may or may not have made me cry.

and finally THIS gem that I CANNOT wait for!:

St. George getaway vacation! (My wife . . .she settles for nothing less that great deals.)

All-in-all, an OUTSTANDING Father’s Day. I am such a lucky and blessed man to have my wonderful and breathtaking wife and adorable baby girl. I could not a happier dad.

Wanted: Your 2 Cents

2010-06-21T00:13:00.001-06:00

From as far back as I can remember, I had my future planned. I was going to become a doctor. While in junior high/high school when each student was asked to explore career options, I always sat pretty with the idea that I had it figured out and I didn’t need to think of anything else. I took classes and certifications that put me on my path and everyone was aware of my aspirations. I went to and got home from Alabama, signed up for the pre-med program at the U and started on my path . . . then it all came to an abrupt halt. Through work, school, and a fair amount of consideration, those “sure” future ideas were gone. I became like a fish out of water, scrambling for some kind of direction. . . (insert long story here). . . Three years later, I was graduating for BYU in Business Management.

Dear life: sometimes you are exciting, but don’t make much sense.

And now here we are. And after THINKING I was set with my future plans, I find I am not so swift at this “what should I do with my life” thing. We are coming up on seven months since graduation and I am still in hot pursuit of one of those “career” thingies. One of those careers that seems to “fit” with who I am. After hundreds of applications and a couple healthy handfuls of interviews (I’ll spare you the gory details), we are getting close to needing to make SOME kind of decision. I have toyed around with a few ideas, but can’t really nail one down. I have an internal conflict between the apparent “stable” and “conservative” options and the ones that allow me to pursue passions. Not only do each have their pros and cons, but I find that I could love many aspects of each.

Once I was confident in my future, but now the details are so blurry, if visible at all. . . . HELP!

So, let me throw a few of these ideas up the flagpole and see if I get any salutes.

#1 – Business

I graduated in business management from the Y and I really loved it. I excelled in many aspects of my education and have some past experience that has taught me that I could love good old “industry” and I would be pretty friggin’ good at it . . . BUT WHICH industry? This is perceived as the “stable” and “sensible” option and I like that. It doesn’t seem to give much space for other life passions, but that is why we vacation, pursue, hobby, and dream, right? . . .

This option includes grad school in 3-5 years.

#2 – Production

This one institutes a bit of business, but a larger dose of creativity. I THINK I would love production (producer, manager, etc.) in the areas of radio/movies/television, but I am not completely sure seeing that I don’t REALLY know what the options are or what the scene is like. This may also included a big step in going back to school in an area I am not totally sure about.

#3 – Culinary School

I am being completely serious. Not only is this a passion, but I have the business to back it up. I would really enjoy this, but do I have the huevos to do it? Is it really a REAL option or is it just an exciting thought?

#4 – Surprise Option

The option I really don’t know about yet . . .

So there you have it. YOU DECIDE 2010! . . . I patiently await your opinions.

And the winner is…

2010-06-20T21:52:00.001-06:00

Happy Fathers Day to the bestest Daddy I could ever have asked for my little lady!

Curd Connoisseur

2010-06-18T00:21:00.001-06:00

I enjoy me some cottage cheese . . .and have all my life. I like my cottage cheese in many ways:

Straight up
with Salt and Pepper
On my salad with ranch dressing, cheddar, ham, croutons, vinegar, and pepper
in my lasagna
with chips (preferably BBQ kettle chips)
as a midnight snack
and (as my wife just discovered) with dill

I do not:

eat my cottage cheese with fruit . . .

So, where am I getting with this? I have something to say and I am going to say it to my good friend:

Kroger Cottage Cheese

Now, Kroger low-fat and I have been pals for years; HOWEVER, I may have to play the fair-weather card because he has some real competition coming his way. Let me introduce you to:

Great Value!

That’s right, good old GV, Great Value, aka WALMART brand Cottage Cheese! This crap is GOOD (why is it that NAME brand can’t hold a cottage cheese candle to GENERIC brand? Don’t know, don’t care).

So Kroger, you need to step up your game or you’re out! I’m not afraid to do it.

Oh and GV, don’t be lookin’ all cool. One mis-step and you’re TOAST!

. . . I like my cottage cheese.

3 years ago today…

2010-06-14T21:52:00.001-06:00

I married this man. My BEST friend. My Eternal companion. My other half.

The day was PERFECT! Full of light.. in SO many ways! The Temple was such a beautiful experience, full of family and friends…and the grounds could not have looked anymore amazing.

Photographer? Perfect. Videographer? Perfect. Florists (My amazingly talented Aunt Allie)? Perfect. Food? Perfect. Cake (yes it gets its own category)? Perfect. Band? Perfect. The Venue (My parents backyard that they slaved away in FOREVER)? Perfect. What more could a girl ask for. It is still the most PERFECT day to me. Nothing went wrong, I had absolutely NO worries.

Highlights from the day are below!

Oh.. did I mention that we danced the night away? Under the stars? Yes, we sure did!

It truly was perfection! That is how every young bride should feel… and I STILL do!

Sorry for the image overload… but believe me, I have A LOT more I could and WOULD have posted!

Mein Kampf

2010-06-13T11:13:00.001-06:00

I have a struggle. Well, its more of a complaint, but it FEELS better when I call it “My Struggle”. . . that way, I have more of a right to kvetch.

Caution: KVETCHING AHEAD!

Over the past 5 months, I have done what I can to make healthy dining choices and it has paid off wonderfully. I feel healthier now than I have in a long time and I wouldn’t trade that for anything; HOWEVER, I have – in turn – developed an eating disorder, of sorts, when it comes to foods I eat while in my home. The disorder: a simple and boring repertoire of foods I eat on a consistent basis that I cannot seem to break myself from though I want to desperately.

The culprits:

Low-fat yogurt
Low-fat cottage cheese (I prefer low-fat yogurts and cottage cheese)
Turkey sandwiches on whole-wheat
Slim-Fast
Eggs
Orange Juice
Lean Cuisines
Cereal
Fruit

Each time I go to the grocery store, I am CONVINCED that I am going to expand. I AM GOING TO GROW! I walk down each isle completely open minded to finding great foods to make great dishes. (I watch Food Network religiously to find awesome new things to make at home.) Then it hits; JUSTIFICATION. “Oh, that will take too long.” “No, no, that will make me fat again.” THE DISORDER!, it takes over. It causes me to forget all the great ideas I have and pick the boring. Then, as I am checking out, I realize I have nothing special. Nothing to break the status quo. Nothing that is going to cure me! . . . I drive home in shame.

HOWEVER, what I find MOST FRUSTRATING is that is has not always been this way. I used to make good food at home. I used to be exciting and people looked forward to what I made for dinner. I used to have good leftovers and it seemed as though I couldn’t cook fast enough to keep up with the ideas that I had.

Apparently, thus enters the need to be eating healthier. . . Catch 22, y’all.

I require a healthy redemption . . . heck, even the occasional indulgent redemption. . .

HELP! My posterity deserves better!

2010-06-11T11:40:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update

I HAVE A DREAM . . .

2010-06-10T10:07:00.001-06:00

. . . about once every 3-6 months that is so terribly vivid and real than I wake up in sweat and with a racing heart. This morning was just such a morning.

Specifically, I have been having dream that includes THIS individual:

I am being SERIOUS! I dream that I am with my family in some foreign city during a big city-wide celebration. Thousands of people are outside and awaiting a big announcement . . . Then it HAPPENS! We hear a thumping in the distance that gets louder and louder until the T-Rex appears and all hell breaks loose! People are screaming and running everywhere. I panic and try to get my family together, but we get separated. No matter where I go, the T-Rex follows. I find cover for a bit and wait in silence . . . THEN HE STRIKES!

And OF COURSE, I can’t run fast in this dream so I have to jump over obstacles to confuse him. Then it all comes to an end just before I get attacked . . . when I wake up. I look over at my wife and kiss her and check on my baby. Take about 10 minutes to recompose myself and go back to sleep hoping it does not happen again. (That’s the one benefit of being me, I can sleep or go BACK to sleep after almost anything.)

So, I HAVE A ~~DREAM~~ NIGHTMARE, and it blows!

UPDATE!

2010-06-09T11:02:00.001-06:00

YET ANOTHER Little Lady update!

Caution: She is VERY cute and you will want to go swimming.

2010-06-06T10:47:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update

Mercredi Gras

2010-06-05T11:23:00.001-06:00

For you non-French speakers, that translates to FAT WEDNESDAY!You heard it here first, I am starting yet ANOTHER round of L.E.N.T.; however, I began my celebratory eating on Wednesday, it puttered around throughout Thursday, and finally my pious period began and I ashed myself on Friday. THUS, I am in full-blown lenting.

Lent \’lent\: : the 40 weekdays from Ash Wednesday to Easter observed by the Roman Catholic, Eastern, and some Protestant churches . . . and Greg . . . as a period of penitence and fasting

Now, my Lent only includes sweets, added refined sugar, sodas/non-all-natural juices, and white breads/pastas/rice, but it is Lent none the less. It is a great excuse to kick SKINNY 2010, Phase II, into place.

So, there you have it and YOU are going to help hold me to it! I have already turned down Pineapple Dole Whips, world-famous cupcakes, as well as M&Ms and chocolate grahams (for those of you who really know me, turning down M&Ms is a big accomplishment).

Oh, and I forgot, I am FORMALLY asking you to JOIN me! But only if you are not too scared. . . Let me know if you are in.

Official LENT Rules:

Begin TODAY (or whenever you FIRST read this) and goes through FRIDAY, July 16, 2010 (This will be our Phase II’s GOOD FRIDAY).

Culinary Celebrations of Accomplishment begin no sooner than SATURDAY, July 17, 2010.

LENT restrictions include, but are not limited to:

No “sweets”

i.e., cakes, cookies, candies, puddings, other confectionaries, and icings.

No Sodas/Non-ALL NATURAL juices

this includes NO diet drinks or sports drinks

only ALL NATURAL juices allowed

No white bread/pasta/rice

only 100% whole grains

. . . Go ahead an alter SLIGHTLY any of the above “restrictions” as to get you to join!

Riddle Me This . . .

2010-06-04T10:24:00.001-06:00

Can one jinx a JINX? Answer: kinda, but not totally.

Jinx TAKE ONE:

Flag Day, June 14, 2007, the day I married my beautiful bride (We did consider a May wedding for about 30 seconds, but then Megs started to sing that song from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers . . . They say when you Marry in June . . . and that was out the window.) It was a near perfect day, all until we were dropped off (quite literally 'dropped off’ by our limo driver. Plug: DON’T use GLW Formal Affair. Not cool, not cool.) at the Grand America Hotel for our wedding night. We, Megs in her breathtaking wedding dress and I in my tux, were walked in and up to the counter to check in . . . and they couldn’t find our reservations. The SAME reservations that were verified TWICE. They looked at us, AT MIDNIGHT and CLEARLY having just been married, and said, “Sorry, maybe you could walk across the street to the Little America and stay in one of their rooms.” I replied, “Maybe you could get a shuttle over there . . .” They did . . . twenty minutes later. Talk about a rain on our parade. Plug: The Grand America can kiss my butt.

Jinx TAKE TWO:

June 14, 2008: Our FIRST ANNIVERSARY. We were in Nauvoo (we are kinda like junkies) having just celebrated with my grandma as she received her endowments in the temple. My family left on the 13th and headed back to St. Louis to catch an early flight the next morning and Megs and I stayed that night to celebrate our anniversary. The day was beautiful, but started to rain. We were hearing reports of record flooding further north up the Mississippi and headed our way. Water levels were rising at an alarming pace and bridges across the river were closing one after another. After weighing out the pros and cons, we made the decision to leave that night (ended up being the right decision because the entire place flooded) and head to St. Louis before we were stuck. We stayed that night . . . in the same room with my parents. That’s right, with my parents. Foiled again.

Jinx TAKE THREE:

June 13, 2009. We were in Park City shopping at the outlets in preparation for our second anniversary. On our way home, We got a call from Megs sister, Krista. This would end up being some of the most heartbreaking news we had every received: Megs older brother, Jaman, had been battling a severe case of the Swine Flu and had just been taken, by ambulence, to the hospital and had most likely passed away. We hurried home and packed our things and drove the longest one-hour drive of our lives to Centerville. On that drive we got the news that he had passed away. We spent that next week with family, packing up J’s things and preparing for the services. I think we snuck away to Wendy’s or something like that for our celebration, but it didn’t matter that year. . . We miss you J.

Jinx TAKE FOUR:

June 2, 2010. We were in hot pursuit of breaking the jinx, thus we celebrated a couple weeks early. TAKE THAT JINX . . . kinda. We had a gift certificate to the Armstrong Mansion and Megs made the reservations. We had the night all planned out: Emmalee would have her FIRST SLEEPOVER at Meg’s parent’s house (deep breaths Megan, deep calming breaths), we would have dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, go to a movie (first time with only us two . . . ever), and then back to our room; however, first things first, we checked into our room. After pulling up, taking our stuff in, giving our information, and checking in, Megs handed the lady our gift certificate. She looked at it, put in the information and said, “Thank you and enjoy your stay.” Seeing that we still had nearly $80 remaining, Meg asked for the remainder in a gift certificate. The young girl looked at us blankly, got on the phone with a manager, got off and said, “Sorry, we don’t do that.” . . . Excuse me!? You don’t “give change”. “Um, I could upgrade your stay” . . . “No” we say. “I am sorry then” she says. “Here are your keys back. Don’t book us in. Where is your manager?” we say. “She’s out for another couple hours.” she says. “We’ll be in touch” we say.

We left completely boiling on the inside, but laughing all the same. Here we were, trying to outsmart the jinx and we got screwed. To sum up the rest, we went to dinner at the Cheesecake Factory, which was AWESOME. If you have never been, GO and get the Orange Chicken and REDVELVET CHEESECAKE for dessert.

After dinner, all prepared to perform a little verbal judo on the manager, they agreed to give us back the “change” in a gift certificate and we stayed the night. All in all, it ended up being a great night.

So, to sum it up. You can’t totally jinx a jinx, but then again, maybe we don’t want to. It gives us something good to talk about. So here is to June 14, 2011. BRING IT ON!

Ghetto Food

2010-06-02T08:04:00.001-06:00

At least that is what my wife calls it. Ghetto food, we all have it and adore it. Well, I HOPE we all have a little in our lives. What is this “ghetto food”, you ask? Allow me to explain:

Ghetto Food: \ˈge-tō ˈfüd\ a nutriment in solid form that has become isolated, especially in conferring inferior status

Clear as mud? Let me throw it at you in commoners terms: Bologna with mustard dots, cheese and pickle sandwiches, Burger King breakfast, Malt-o Meal, Crinkly Noodles . . . (drooling, drooling). Ringin’ a bell?

Ghetto Food: The random and simple, but amazing foods that each of us grew up with in which our neighbors and friends think are weird or even repulsive. . . GHETTO FOOD!

That’s right, ladies and gentlemen, I am a lover of ghetto food. Growing up in my family, we had our own unique blend that included (at the very top) Bologna with Mustard Dots. Simple and easy recipe, really. Take a piece of bologna and put in on a side plate. Cut into small 1/2” squares and dot each piece with a little French’s Mustard. Enjoy. (Complemented nicely as a side dish to homemade Mac-n-Cheese.)

We may also add to that list some Malto Meal (served in a small bath of milk and sugar and to be served with toast–which MUST be divided equally-this is an important step as to keep the family peace) and Burger King breakfast to be consumed while watching a little early morning Little House on the Prairie. No better way to begin 4th grade than with a little Sausage Biscuit con Laura Ingalls.

Megan also entered our marriage with her list of GFs. Hers include Crinkly Noodles (we called them Macaroni and Caca Soup at my house) with cheese and Cheese and Pickle Sandwiches toasted under the broiler.

While we find it of critical importance to pass these traditions along, we will also strive to create a few new ones of our own. In the running include: Santitas with Franks RedHot, Orangesicle Jell-O, and Malibu Chicken. We would also like to entertain yours.

HOMEWORK!

What is YOUR favorite Ghetto Food? What really makes you tick (while making other dry heave)? Please leave your submission via comment. (And don’t just secretly read this blog and NOT leave a comment. That is lame. I have a sitemeter that says A LOT more people read this blog than comment. AND I can even tell where you came from. That means, I know who you are and that you did not complete the homework assignment. So don’t be lame. Comment.)

You may now start.

2010-05-31T00:30:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update!

Slow and Easy

2010-05-29T17:35:00.001-06:00

I really like blogging, but I suck at it lately. I have found out that it is a lot like exercising; if you ease into it and start seeing results than you get all excited and do it on a regular basis. Once you are in the groove, you stop doing for other people and do it because you like it and it makes you feel good.

BUT then there is the flip slide. You know, the side that you start with all kinds of motivation and energy, dive in deep, get exhausted too fast, and then think “I don’t want to do this tomorrow . . . or the next day.” So you don’t.

I shall get back into blogging simply and slowly SO today you get a few pictures. Maybe one day you will get the explanations behind them. . . maybe.

Easing back in.

I graduated and it was anticlimatic yet awesome all at the same time. Not the choirs of angels or slow motion victories that I had imagined, but pretty great none the less.

We went to the Tulip Festival down at Thanksgiving Point in April. It was therapeutic and we barely missed an amazing hail storm .

One day, Megs and I would like to live here. Only for a few years, but we would like to do it.

I am 150% in love.

Stories . . . and one day I will look back and laugh, right?

I’m kinda the “odd job” king, but I then again I think it is fun.

Hobbies in the making. Some slower than others.

I wanna go . . . bad.

The End.

Traditions in the making?

2010-04-27T15:52:00.001-06:00

I have been REALLY into baking lately. Maybe my crafty, home-maker side has finally come back after a nearly 2 year sabbatical (it began with the moment I found out I was pregnant. I figure I was doing my own kind of “baking”) OR it is my way of vicariously enjoying delicious baked goods without actually consuming them. Either way… I enjoy it! Hopefully those who are the benefactors do also. I secretly have hoped, as a planned out treats for holidays, that they would become a tradition. Something that everyone asked for EVERY year!

With this being said, I thought that for Easter this year I would take upon myself the role of creating Bunnies, Easter Eggs, and Chicks Cake POPS! I had no clue what I was getting myself into, but I knew that the outcome WOULD NOT DISSAPOINT. Well… I dare say they did. My hours and hours of hard work, tedious details, precise measurements, and a few cuss words (in my head of course!) somehow did not present the masterful masterpiece I had anticipated.

I had planned to make 3 different flavors of cake. Mint chocolate for the bunnies, Yellow for the chickies, and lemon for the eggies. BUT, after seeing that 1 batter of cake= 40 cake pops.. I decided to only do 2 different flavors. So, lemon and yellow it was (I had already mixed up the batter for those.) I also thought that it would be GREAT if the pops were just a little bit bigger than suggested… so I made them bigger, let them set, then attempted to dip the over-sized pops in melting chocolate. I quickly learned that there is a reason the pops are only supposed to be quarter size balls. SO.. I deconstructed, re-rolled, and re-froze them.

As I waited for them to set up I got all of my decorating goodies ready to go! This is the step I was the most excited for! Well… after dipping for HOURS.. I was not quite as excited as I had once been to decorate. I found that with each chickie beak and bunny ear that I “glued” into place my spirits were lifting. I was completely ready and happy to begin the decorating of the eggs! I began applying the extra melted chocolate to the eggs and rolled them different colors of sugar. Nothing stuck. So, I tried again. NOTHING. I started to loose hope and panic that these were not going to be ready for Easter morning. I ran down the the nearest grocery store and bought some Karo Syrup, got one of my tiny, unused lip brushes and began painting the eggs with Karo syrup then dipping them in the colored sugars. Worked like a charm. Only problem is I was up until 2:30 doing this.

Now, you can imagine that after all of this that I was pretty excited to see how my little pops were accepted! The verdict was… NOT WELL. I found one of my half eaten chicks in the garbage. So, I think it is safe to say that next year I will NOT be making these, and this has NOT become an Easter tradition. I am sure I will come up with another crazy idea to try out next year though!

So… with further ado.. THE cake Pops.

*Setting up in freezer

*Drying after the melting chocolate bath (Notice how the clock says 4:41…. This step was scheduled to be COMPLETED at 12:00.. Ughh)

*Finished product. I do have to say that I LOVE how the bunnies and chickies are playing hide-n-seek!

*Here is a better view of the detail work

*And this is what made it all worth it!

Sweet Home Alabama

2010-04-23T12:07:00.001-06:00

If I would have seen this video before I left on my mission, I would never have believed it. In a wonderful kind of way, it makes me feel at home.

I miss Alabama . . .

Man Things

2010-04-20T17:55:00.001-06:00

Summer = Man Things. Exciting, dirty, outdoor, use-your-hands, make you sweat and smell like dirt and oil Man Things. The kind of things that make you feel worthwhile, capable, and filled slightly with adrenaline. Allow me to make a list of just a few of my favorite summer Man Things:

Mowing the lawn
Building/assembling furniture
Sawing things (most anything)
Golf (I am still not good at this one, but will be one day)
Random fix-it projects around the house and yard
Dump runs

The ULTIMATE Man Things are those that allow you to do a combination of any of the above list. Last week, I was able to do get in an outstanding combo.

My best friend, Andy (aka BEF), is in remodeling mode. He and his wife bought Andy’s grandma’s house last year and are working hard to bring it into the 21st century. A few weeks back, over an outing to the Taco cart near Sear’s in SLC, he made comment to me that he was going to get someone to switch out his old electrical outlets and replace them with new GFI outlets. I could just feel the excitement of Man Things creep in. “I’LL DO IT!” . . . and I did. It was great and it revived my motivation that was in “It’s winter and I live in Provo and don’t do much” hibernation.

This motivation lead to the recent removal of THESE:

Well not THESE exactly, but similar tin awnings that adorned Andy’s windows. Hip in the 70’s, but (sorry Granny) not so hot no mo.

And the dismantling of THIS:

Our load was large and we were ready hit, none other than, THE DUMP! Butter my butt and call me a biscuit, I was PUMPED! I hadn’t been to the dump since last summer and I could just hear the seagulls flying overhead and smell the years of rotting garbage. Then something terrible happened . . . A few of our local Hispanic friends (aka, el amigos) randomly pulled up and asked “Tin for free?” Caught completely off guard, Andy said yes and within 4 minutes they had every last piece GONE! My Man Things combo died . . . BUT not for long. Andy’s parents were utilizing the joy that is Free Spring Cleaning Dump Week and needed some additional help disposing of old mattresses, a couch, gardening things, and a porch swing. The next day, Andy and I answered their call!

THUS, Dump Run!

You may not understand it, but I don’t care. I love the dump. I have loved the dump for years and love it even more each time I go. I love the sounds and even the smell. My name is Greg Larsen and I love the Dump.

Going to the dump with the right PERSON is as important as going with the right EQUIPMENT. You see, if I went with just any other old stick-in-the-mud type personality, I wouldn’t have enjoyed Dump Shot Put like I did with Andy. This TV made for an excellent target. . . . PS. I made the first bulls-eye.

There are also RULES to the dump. Such as, DON’T throw away your Preach My Gospel manual! It just ain’t right.

ALSO, don’t try to pull a fast one on the Dump workers when showing them your ID to get you in. On run #3, we put Tracy to the test by showing her my CENTERVILLE license. She gave us a stern “no”, but then we congratulated her on a successful ID check. She didn’t laugh.

All-in-all, I think the Dump is swell and valiantly holds a Top Ten spot in my Favorite Things About Summer list. Here’s to you Dump.

Vicarious Indulgences

2010-04-14T23:20:00.001-06:00

Picture some of your greatest indulgences. Picture a dense, moist chocolate cake with rich chocolate frosting. Picture a hot and cheesy Chicago-style pizza with sausage and fresh tomato marinara. Picture the best thing you have ever eaten, EVER, and picture yourself eating it right now.

Picture yourself walking into the mall and walking out with everything you even THINK you want. Think of new furniture and that cool new electronic you really want. Think of leaving tomorrow for your favorite vacation spot and spending two full weeks.

Think of your greatest indulgences . . . then INDULGE. Over the past couple of months, Megs and I have been able to do this on a consistent basis. We want it, we indulge it. . . vicariously. . .

Vicarious: \vī-ˈker-ē-əs, və-\ Experienced or realized through imaginative or sympathetic participation in the experience of another.

That’s right, we indulge vicariously. Let me explain:

Over the past few months, Megs and I have really made an attempt to make healthy decisions. This was kicked off by our annual observance of Lent in which we give up all things sugar, soda, and fast food. This then lead to a fairly structured regiment of daily foods that obviously did not include most of life’s AMAZING and craveable comfort-style foods. So, how have we coped? . . . Food Network. Ina, Giada, Bobby, Paula, Guy, the Neeley’s, Throwdown, and DDD to name a few. If you think hard enough, you can ALMOST taste it.

While awaiting “an income”, our observance of the budgets are bigger, hairy, and more ominous than before. Though we’re kickin’ it frugal style, we still pine. So being, my wife has come up with an affordable way to rectify this want: online shopping and the delete button.

Last week I walked in on Megs finishing up yet another “shopping spree” at BabyGap.com in which she racked up a bill of over $800.00. At this same moment, Megs hit the “delete all” key on the screen, took a deep breath, and sighed, “There, I feel better.” She did this same thing three days later. . .

Finally, we LOVE to travel . . . well at least we like to TALK about traveling. Megs and I have a detailed itinerary for about 15 different and awesome vacations we would like to take one day. Like, we have already sacrificed our large, future estate for the opportunity to travel the globe with our children. So, how have we recently and vicariously filled this void?: 2am, a very sad 13 month old getting her molars in, two desperate parents, and strong desire to spend a week back East.

Just driving past the airport, watching all the people come and go, guessing on where they have been and where they are going just seems to do it for us. Its almost like we are going somewhere . . . rather than just back home. Airport=refreshing past time.

So, there you have it. Take all of these things, sprinkle a daily dose of Jillian, and you have our life. It may not be a glamorous life, but it’s our and, for now, it does just fine.

Voodoo Momma Juju

2010-04-04T23:45:00.001-06:00

Okay, I could waste everyone’s time by explaining why I have not blogged in a while, but that is officially LAME. Long of the short . . . I’m back.

So, the other day I was playing with my adorable little lady . . . this is her.

We were in her room playing with her toys, dancing to the B-52s, and generally just enjoying ourselves . . . when I came across THIS

No no, look CLOSER . . .

Does this alarm you as much as it did ME? . . . Well it should have. Why, you ask? . . . two points: Hogle Zoo and VOODOO!

Think about it, a couple months ago at the Hogle Zoo . . . the zebras . . . GONE. Last week, the giraffe . . . DONE FOR. And I think it is all Emmalee’s fault. How? VOODOO. My little lady is mystically “shutting the door” on these poor animals.

Needless to say, if I were a tiger or frog at the Hogle, I’d be sniffin’ my food real good before my next meal.

2010-02-03T13:33:00.001-07:00

Little Lady update

He Done! Hallelujah

2010-02-03T12:38:00.001-07:00

Since the husband has lost the drive and desire to BLOG, I will post the most recent and joyous of news for him!

TADA! Now, I am just working on getting it framed!

P.S. Don’t you love how patriotic he is?! Kinda reminds me of Karate Kid! Greg is most surely a starter of trends… you just wait.

Catch UP

2010-01-16T10:13:00.003-07:00

It has been a while since I posted. A lot has happened. In fact so much that it hurts my head to think about writing it all down. So, I will use bullet points to help get myself through, what feels like, a daunting task.

Greg graduated… I don’t really know how to convey all of the emotions felt about this topic. BUT, there is and was MUCH joy! He will be in charge of telling you all about it.
We moved. UH… I don’t know how or what to say about that topic either. We received much help, whether it be packing up my ridiculous amount of dishes, glasses, and platters, babysitting the “un-packer”(maybe I should expound… Emmalee IS a professional un-packer. She thinks that by removing what I have just placed in the box she is being tremendously helpful! I didn’t let her in on the secret that it indeed was not helpful, because she was so proud of herself!) cooking us a DELISH meal (Thanks Leni!) or moving all our HEAVY furniture into our new “home.” THANK YOU. THANK YOU. THANK YOU. You made the “6 days before Christmas move” a whole lot easier than it ever could have been!
Christmas! There is a topic I could probably go on and on about! Christmas with Emmalee was so much fun. I feel like it was the first year in a LONG time that I got into Christmas a good month before it even came. I listened to Christmas music BEFORE Thanksgiving. I was able to attend ALL of the family Christmas parties (a grand total of 8!) I wasn’t worried about WHAT to give everyone, I took care of all that well in advance. It almost felt like a Christmas from my childhood again! Loved it! Emmalee was ALL about playing with her cousins and clapping for them as they jumped up and down about their gifts! She was SPOILED… of course, but we are very thankful for wonderful family who loves her so very much!
The New Year has brought us some low key days, while Greg is in constant pursuit of a job/career. It is nice to have him home. To cook with, exercise with, and giggle with.

Ok, somehow I got through that. I know it wasn’t much and not as entertaining as Greg, but nonetheless I struggled with the task. Don’t be expecting much of a post from me for a while!

2009-12-14T17:03:00.000-07:00

Little Lady update.

Not So Funny

2009-12-05T10:55:00.005-07:00

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..

2009-12-04T09:42:00.004-07:00

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

2009-12-02T17:20:00.004-07:00

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

2009-12-02T17:09:00.001-07:00

Little Lady update

Like Mother Like Daughter.

2009-11-12T12:31:00.009-07:00

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

2009-11-12T10:08:00.004-07:00

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!

2009-11-11T14:23:00.000-07:00

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!

2009-11-02T13:42:00.003-07:00

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!

2009-10-21T01:28:00.002-06:00

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.

2009-09-29T13:12:00.001-06:00

Littley Lady update

2009-09-11T11:11:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update

Poor Kangaroo Legs...

2009-09-02T11:42:00.003-06:00

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!

2009-08-31T11:45:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update

Dear Megan,

2009-08-26T16:08:00.008-06:00

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

#1

And

(My favorite book from the 5th grade)

Take a look at those ATTACHMENTS!

#6 #7

Only for a week . . . or four

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

2009-08-24T12:15:00.009-06:00

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

2009-08-16T22:07:00.001-06:00

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? . . .

2009-08-14T10:39:00.003-06:00

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

2009-08-13T08:57:00.002-06:00

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?

2009-08-12T11:47:00.002-06:00

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

2009-08-03T22:36:00.001-06:00

(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

2009-07-28T09:53:00.002-06:00

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!

2009-07-23T22:22:00.001-06:00

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!

2009-07-20T12:35:00.001-06:00

Little Lady update.

My Triumphant Return

2009-07-09T14:18:00.002-06:00

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.)

2009-07-01T19:04:00.001-06:00

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

2009-06-30T14:17:00.001-06:00

Little Lady update

Best Daddy in the World!

2009-06-25T22:36:00.004-06:00

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

2009-06-24T14:34:00.001-06:00

"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.

2009-06-24T14:32:00.001-06:00

Little Lady update

Creativity RUT

2009-06-09T16:02:00.004-06:00

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!

2009-06-02T15:49:00.005-06:00

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!

2009-05-12T13:16:00.000-06:00

Little Lady update!

Oh Dorothy . . .

2009-04-29T22:53:00.001-06:00

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..

2009-04-21T23:43:00.005-06:00

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

2009-04-07T22:05:00.001-06:00

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

2009-03-29T22:07:00.001-06:00

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

2009-03-26T01:05:00.001-06:00

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

2009-03-23T01:06:00.001-06:00

Little Lady Update!

Death of an Ice Cream Salesman

2009-03-23T01:01:00.001-06:00

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

2009-03-09T08:24:00.001-06:00

Little Lady Update

Heaven!

2009-03-07T19:05:00.001-07:00

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.