Monday, December 29, 2008
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Baby Rude's (Almost) 1st Christmas
The holidays are a time for family and I'm excited that our family will be growing in the near future! David and I had an original "three-year-plan" when we got married. We wanted to wait until we had been married for three years before we had children. Well, three years turned into four, and then we started really talking about it seriously. I think he was ready long before I was, but I just wanted to be SURE that it was the right time. I mean, having a baby is a huge life-changing event in my mind.
There were so many things to consider, but when it came down to it, what were we really waiting for? =) ...and now it seems like all I'm doing is waiting - I am so excited to meet our little guy! This will be the last Christmas for just David and I. Next year, we'll have a tiny Rude crawling(?) around, chewing on ornaments(?), and trying to sneak a peek at the presents. It will be such a joy! His due date is sometime in April (originally the 22nd, now the 10th, we'll see what they pick next...) so he'll be born just before our five-year anniversary. I'm looking forward to enjoying these last couple of months alone with David as we prepare to welcome little Rude into our family.
I'm convinced he's adorable already!

Merry (almost) 1st Christmas Baby Rude!!!
There were so many things to consider, but when it came down to it, what were we really waiting for? =) ...and now it seems like all I'm doing is waiting - I am so excited to meet our little guy! This will be the last Christmas for just David and I. Next year, we'll have a tiny Rude crawling(?) around, chewing on ornaments(?), and trying to sneak a peek at the presents. It will be such a joy! His due date is sometime in April (originally the 22nd, now the 10th, we'll see what they pick next...) so he'll be born just before our five-year anniversary. I'm looking forward to enjoying these last couple of months alone with David as we prepare to welcome little Rude into our family.
I'm convinced he's adorable already!

Merry (almost) 1st Christmas Baby Rude!!!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
More Fluffy Precipitation
It seems like the snow has been a permanent part of the landscape around here. On Monday we felt that we had been cooped-up in the house for long enough and decided to venture out into the arctic chill. I'm a chicken about driving in the snow (or even being a passenger, for that matter) so we decided to take advantage of TriMet. We walked to the MAX stop near our house to find that because of frozen switches, the train was not in operation this far north. We took a shuttle bus to Gateway and then caught the train to Lloyd Center. There were a surprising number of people there - doing last-minute Xmas shopping and probably just wanting to escape cabin-fever!
We are ready to be out of the house!

We're not taking a car out today!

I can still see my feet!

Making my way to the MAX station.

Outside Lloyd Center.

Waiting for the MAX to take us home.

We're happy to be back to our cozy home!
We are ready to be out of the house!
We're not taking a car out today!
I can still see my feet!
Making my way to the MAX station.
Outside Lloyd Center.
Waiting for the MAX to take us home.
We're happy to be back to our cozy home!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Mrs. Domestic for a Day
Sometimes I wish I was a bit more of a "Martha Stewart" - type. It would be fabulous to take out fresh-baked desserts with homemade oven mitts in my perfectly organized kitchen. I would feel grand to be surrounded by the scent of my custom candles as I wrote in perfect calligraphy on my personally-designed Christmas cards while snuggled under my hand-stitched quilt. My guests would be impressed by my whimsical decorations and various craft projects, as much as they would be in awe of my perfectly landscaped yard and abundantly productive garden. Alas, I guess that's just not me...
However, I was pretty proud of myself earlier this week. I managed to get all my store-bought Xmas cards addressed and sent out, and included a cheesy photo in each one that I forced David and Tucker to take with me. I also felt pretty clever and domestic when I made some fun treats to take to my office Christmas party on Thursday. I found a picture of some "candy sushi" online and thought I might give it a try. It was fun!

Filling the tray with goodies.

The finished product!
However, I was pretty proud of myself earlier this week. I managed to get all my store-bought Xmas cards addressed and sent out, and included a cheesy photo in each one that I forced David and Tucker to take with me. I also felt pretty clever and domestic when I made some fun treats to take to my office Christmas party on Thursday. I found a picture of some "candy sushi" online and thought I might give it a try. It was fun!
Filling the tray with goodies.
The finished product!
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Sniz-oh!
I'm sure everyone in the Portland area is sick of hearing about the snow (I know I am!) I just have to share my report though, and maybe some pictures. I think we are on day 10 now of the Winter Wonderland, but at least we haven't been stuck at home for all of it. David is always excited to drive in hazardous conditions and he says our little Hyundai actually handles pretty well (good thing we bought those new tires!) I don't really mind staying home and doing indoor stuff but David gets a little cuckoo after awhile. As long as we have electricity and can stay warm, I'm content!
Yesterday we took Tucker to the big field near our house to get some exercise. He bounded through the snow and ice and had a jolly good time. As far as dogs go, he's actually kind of a wimpy one (he is mostly poodle, afterall.) He's often startled by harmless noises and will get spooked by things such as his own tail. For these reasons, it was a bit surprising to us that he took such a liking to the snow. He goes crazy in the stuff! Young Tuck has been running and pouncing and eating the beautiful fluff. When we finally make him come in to defrost, he sits by the back doors and wistfully watches the flakes falling in the yard.
David with Tucker at the field.

This pup is ready to run!

Look at his energy!

Time to thaw-out!
Yesterday we took Tucker to the big field near our house to get some exercise. He bounded through the snow and ice and had a jolly good time. As far as dogs go, he's actually kind of a wimpy one (he is mostly poodle, afterall.) He's often startled by harmless noises and will get spooked by things such as his own tail. For these reasons, it was a bit surprising to us that he took such a liking to the snow. He goes crazy in the stuff! Young Tuck has been running and pouncing and eating the beautiful fluff. When we finally make him come in to defrost, he sits by the back doors and wistfully watches the flakes falling in the yard.
David with Tucker at the field.
This pup is ready to run!
Look at his energy!
Time to thaw-out!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Zoo Lights
It is truly a Winter Wonderland here in Portland this week! The snow is beautiful and I enjoy observing it from an indoor location. I'm not a fan of driving at any time, but when there is even a chance of slickness, I'd rather just stay on my couch with a cup of cocoa and a good book. Unfortunately, my job cannot be performed from my couch, so David must be my trusty chauffeur. I will regale you with more about the snow in a later blog (and share some pics when I get them off my camera.) Now, back to the title topic...
Last Friday we had the treat of going to see the Zoo Lights for the very first time with our friends Shaun and Jessica. We bundled-up and drove out to the Westside with expectations of a small crowd. I was surprised how many people were out in the snow/rain/cold at night - many of them with small children! Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable time strolling through the zoo and pondering how high the electric bill must be. They had some great displays and it was a swell way to get into the holiday spirit. Here are a few pics from the evening...
There was a pleasant glow along the pathways.

These are some of the "animals" on display.

There's nothing quite like a hug from a person dressed in a semi-creepy Polar Bear costume!
Last Friday we had the treat of going to see the Zoo Lights for the very first time with our friends Shaun and Jessica. We bundled-up and drove out to the Westside with expectations of a small crowd. I was surprised how many people were out in the snow/rain/cold at night - many of them with small children! Nevertheless, it was an enjoyable time strolling through the zoo and pondering how high the electric bill must be. They had some great displays and it was a swell way to get into the holiday spirit. Here are a few pics from the evening...
There was a pleasant glow along the pathways.

These are some of the "animals" on display.

There's nothing quite like a hug from a person dressed in a semi-creepy Polar Bear costume!

Monday, December 15, 2008
You Mean I'm Supposed to Shop BEFORE Christmas?
So I guess Christmas is just next week. 10 short days away... I thought I was prepared for this! We got our tree and lights up weeks ago, and the snow is here now, but I really thought I had more time! Guess who hasn't purchased a SINGLE Christmas gift yet this year?
To be fair, it is important to note that David and I agreed to have a scaled-back Christmas this year. With David only working part-time for now and the loss of my job looming in the future, it just makes sense to be frugal. Plus, we've never really been ones to break the bank over "stuff." We've had the opportunity to make donations to different charities and to volunteer our time with some great programs (that have been really fun) so I definitely feel in the holiday spirit. It's just kinda' weird that our tree has a big empty skirt underneath (if you don't count the dead pine needles.) I've told my family that we're just going to do small (read: inexpensive) gifts this year, and we don't feel obligated to send something to every half-cousin or nephew-in-law, so that makes things simpler too. I guess I should have planned ahead a bit more and devised some creative homemade gifts to knock everyone's socks off with my cleverness and skill. I guess there's always next year. ...or is it too late to take up needlepoint?
For your holiday enjoyment, here is a picture of Tucker (our dog) supervising David as he decorates the Christmas Tree.
To be fair, it is important to note that David and I agreed to have a scaled-back Christmas this year. With David only working part-time for now and the loss of my job looming in the future, it just makes sense to be frugal. Plus, we've never really been ones to break the bank over "stuff." We've had the opportunity to make donations to different charities and to volunteer our time with some great programs (that have been really fun) so I definitely feel in the holiday spirit. It's just kinda' weird that our tree has a big empty skirt underneath (if you don't count the dead pine needles.) I've told my family that we're just going to do small (read: inexpensive) gifts this year, and we don't feel obligated to send something to every half-cousin or nephew-in-law, so that makes things simpler too. I guess I should have planned ahead a bit more and devised some creative homemade gifts to knock everyone's socks off with my cleverness and skill. I guess there's always next year. ...or is it too late to take up needlepoint?
For your holiday enjoyment, here is a picture of Tucker (our dog) supervising David as he decorates the Christmas Tree.

Friday, December 12, 2008
Preggo Pic
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Stretchy Jeans and Citrus Fruit
You may have guessed from the title of this entry that I am going to write about pregnancy. It really is the strangest thing - being pregnant I mean. Currently, I am enjoying every moment of it, but some of the early stages have not been so fun. Allow me to reflect a bit...
The day I found out that we were expecting, I couldn't contain my excitement! We had only very recently decided that we were finally ready to entertain the possibility of adding a new member to the Rude family, and then it was suddenly a reality! I took the at-home test during my lunch break and already had a feeling that I knew what the results would be. Sure enough - the line was definitely there! I hid the evidence in the bathroom and planned to surprise David that night. So much for that idea... He got a cut on his hand and went digging around for the antibacterial ointment and came across the test. I heard him in the bathroom ask confusedly, "um...what does this mean?" I raced into the bathroom and said, "it means we're going to have a baby, and it was supposed to be a surprise!" I was really too excited to care about him finding it, and we could talk about little else that night besides the fact that WE were going to have a CHILD - crazy!
As my pregnancy progressed, my excitment never faded, but sometimes my joyfulness did. Morning sickness really stinks. I know I didn't have it as bad as some women do, but basically I felt like I was a helpless seasick blimp for several weeks. Although I only actually vomited on a few occasions, I felt like I was in a continuous state of nausea for days on end. I would generally make it through my workday without serious incident (eating saltines and drinking water like a madwoman) and then immediatly crash on the couch for a nap each evening. I had to eat something every 2 hours to avoid feeling miserable but not many foods sounded good. My sense of smell was crazy-sensitive (helping trigger more nausea) and my digestive system was all messed up too. The fatigue was what shocked me the most though. I could hardly stay awake at my computer, driving, hanging out with friends, - anytime really. Thankfully, these symptoms started to decrease around week 15 and by week 18 or 19 they were gone.
The second trimester has been wonderful! Sure my body is feeling uncomfortable and none of my clothes fit, but I get to feel the baby moving around now and we've been able to experience the wonder of ultrasound. It was hard to distinguish "baby" movements from other bodily movements early on, but around Thanksgiving time I was sure that those jabs were coming from tiny fists and feet. Now I've got a regular little party animal. It doesn't matter what time of day or what I'm doing - there's a lot of movement going on in there! We had two early ultrasounds at the doctor to confirm the pregnancy and check the heart, but our 20 week ultrasound was really something amazing. First, we found out that we're going to have a boy! He really is the most precious thing I have ever seen. He was making little chewing motions with his tiny mouth, he waved his fingers for us (and gave us the thumbs-up sign - cool kid already), he streched his legs, and tapped his little foot. We got to see all his vital organs and I'll admit that I cried as I watched his beating heart. It is so small and fragile, but it's beating strong in his tiny chest. I can already tell that I'm going to be one of those super-protective moms, sorry everyone. *sigh*
Time is already going so quickly, I just know this little boy is going to arrive before we know it. I'm trying to enjoy every moment while I can, and very much looking forward to welcoming him into my life. In the meantime, I'll wear my stretchy jeans with pride and ignore the jokes about how many oranges and grapefruits I manage to consume! =)
The day I found out that we were expecting, I couldn't contain my excitement! We had only very recently decided that we were finally ready to entertain the possibility of adding a new member to the Rude family, and then it was suddenly a reality! I took the at-home test during my lunch break and already had a feeling that I knew what the results would be. Sure enough - the line was definitely there! I hid the evidence in the bathroom and planned to surprise David that night. So much for that idea... He got a cut on his hand and went digging around for the antibacterial ointment and came across the test. I heard him in the bathroom ask confusedly, "um...what does this mean?" I raced into the bathroom and said, "it means we're going to have a baby, and it was supposed to be a surprise!" I was really too excited to care about him finding it, and we could talk about little else that night besides the fact that WE were going to have a CHILD - crazy!
As my pregnancy progressed, my excitment never faded, but sometimes my joyfulness did. Morning sickness really stinks. I know I didn't have it as bad as some women do, but basically I felt like I was a helpless seasick blimp for several weeks. Although I only actually vomited on a few occasions, I felt like I was in a continuous state of nausea for days on end. I would generally make it through my workday without serious incident (eating saltines and drinking water like a madwoman) and then immediatly crash on the couch for a nap each evening. I had to eat something every 2 hours to avoid feeling miserable but not many foods sounded good. My sense of smell was crazy-sensitive (helping trigger more nausea) and my digestive system was all messed up too. The fatigue was what shocked me the most though. I could hardly stay awake at my computer, driving, hanging out with friends, - anytime really. Thankfully, these symptoms started to decrease around week 15 and by week 18 or 19 they were gone.
The second trimester has been wonderful! Sure my body is feeling uncomfortable and none of my clothes fit, but I get to feel the baby moving around now and we've been able to experience the wonder of ultrasound. It was hard to distinguish "baby" movements from other bodily movements early on, but around Thanksgiving time I was sure that those jabs were coming from tiny fists and feet. Now I've got a regular little party animal. It doesn't matter what time of day or what I'm doing - there's a lot of movement going on in there! We had two early ultrasounds at the doctor to confirm the pregnancy and check the heart, but our 20 week ultrasound was really something amazing. First, we found out that we're going to have a boy! He really is the most precious thing I have ever seen. He was making little chewing motions with his tiny mouth, he waved his fingers for us (and gave us the thumbs-up sign - cool kid already), he streched his legs, and tapped his little foot. We got to see all his vital organs and I'll admit that I cried as I watched his beating heart. It is so small and fragile, but it's beating strong in his tiny chest. I can already tell that I'm going to be one of those super-protective moms, sorry everyone. *sigh*
Time is already going so quickly, I just know this little boy is going to arrive before we know it. I'm trying to enjoy every moment while I can, and very much looking forward to welcoming him into my life. In the meantime, I'll wear my stretchy jeans with pride and ignore the jokes about how many oranges and grapefruits I manage to consume! =)
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
She's Ba-ack!
I recently had the urge to start writing online and remembered that I had this long-lost blogger account chilling on the web. Well, here I am back at it again! We will see if I can remember to update this thing regularly (or if I have enough excitement in my life to warrant those updates...)
For now, I think I will work on fixing-up my page, and then I'll focus on the content. 15 Days Until Christmas! (in case you don't have a countdown already.)
For now, I think I will work on fixing-up my page, and then I'll focus on the content. 15 Days Until Christmas! (in case you don't have a countdown already.)
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Oh yeah... I have this Blog...
Ooops, sorry guys. I guess MySpace has taken over my life. This is where I am these days:
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=61457509
Hope that works. See you on the flip side!
http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=61457509
Hope that works. See you on the flip side!
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
The Month I Like to Call "April"
Phew! It hasn't been a month yet since my last post. I was a little worried when I logged in... I don't want to be one of those people who just leaves an old outdated Blog just rotting in Cyberspace.
Well, it's April now. To me, it's sort of a ho-hum kind of month. Spring is still trying to drag along but it's not as new as it was last month, and summer isn't really trying to make its appearance yet. All the college kids around here are excited because this is the last week of classes. Next week is finals week and then the lucky seniors get to Grad-u-ate. (*sing-song voice*) Nothing like that for me though, I'll still be working after they're gone and the new freshies make their way here. The old 8-5, though consistent and good for paying bills, does get a bit dull and monotonous at times. (..redundant?)
What's new in my life, you ask? Let's see if I can come up with a few tidbits for you. Well, I forgot about April Fool's so I didn't play any sneaky tricks on any of my loved ones. Also, I am happy to report that I did not have any pranks pulled on me. (I'm not big on practical jokes, so the 1st of April isn't one of my favorite days.)
My guinea pig Rufus seems to be doing much better. After 3 trips to the vet and $300 worth of medical attention - he'd better be! I thought rodents were supposed to be low maintenace! His little neck infection seems to be reduced and he isn't scratching all his fur off, so I think that's a good sign. Plus, he is pleasantly plump now, and that's really the way that all pigs should be. =)
Easter Sunday was nice. Our church put on a special program for the kids and we had an egg hunt after services that David and I helped with. Our friends Shaun and Jessica invited us over for dinner which was nice since we didn't have any plans. (Side story: It's the night before Easter and as we're going to sleep I suddenly remember in a panic that I didn't get an Easter gift for David - not even a mushy card or chocolate bunny or anything! I try to act casual and whisper, "Hey sweetie...did you get me anything for Easter?" There is a long pause before he responds, "Why?" - he takes a good approach there. I hesitantly answer, "Because I didn't get you anything..." I am relieved when he confirms that he too is a bad spouse and neglected to buy me a gift. We're perfect for each other!) Back to Easter dinner now. It was delicious! Jessica is a wonderful cook and she went all out with a Thanksgiving-type spread. Her pnut butter pie is practically to die for!
Let's see... upcoming adventures for me... We are going down to Malibu for the Bible Lectures at Pepperdine University during the first week of May. I think we might make a stop at Disney's California Adventure. I'm such a kid, but I love theme parks. Also, our 2 year wedding anniversary is coming up on May 15th - crazy. I can't even believe it's been that long already! And yet, it kind of feels like I've been married forever. By the way, at what point do you stop being a newlywed? I kind of feel like I'm past that point now, but 2 years isn't that long when you consider people that make it to their 50th anniversary. Hmm...maybe about the 2 year mark is when you make the transistion into oldlywed.
Well, it's April now. To me, it's sort of a ho-hum kind of month. Spring is still trying to drag along but it's not as new as it was last month, and summer isn't really trying to make its appearance yet. All the college kids around here are excited because this is the last week of classes. Next week is finals week and then the lucky seniors get to Grad-u-ate. (*sing-song voice*) Nothing like that for me though, I'll still be working after they're gone and the new freshies make their way here. The old 8-5, though consistent and good for paying bills, does get a bit dull and monotonous at times. (..redundant?)
What's new in my life, you ask? Let's see if I can come up with a few tidbits for you. Well, I forgot about April Fool's so I didn't play any sneaky tricks on any of my loved ones. Also, I am happy to report that I did not have any pranks pulled on me. (I'm not big on practical jokes, so the 1st of April isn't one of my favorite days.)
My guinea pig Rufus seems to be doing much better. After 3 trips to the vet and $300 worth of medical attention - he'd better be! I thought rodents were supposed to be low maintenace! His little neck infection seems to be reduced and he isn't scratching all his fur off, so I think that's a good sign. Plus, he is pleasantly plump now, and that's really the way that all pigs should be. =)
Easter Sunday was nice. Our church put on a special program for the kids and we had an egg hunt after services that David and I helped with. Our friends Shaun and Jessica invited us over for dinner which was nice since we didn't have any plans. (Side story: It's the night before Easter and as we're going to sleep I suddenly remember in a panic that I didn't get an Easter gift for David - not even a mushy card or chocolate bunny or anything! I try to act casual and whisper, "Hey sweetie...did you get me anything for Easter?" There is a long pause before he responds, "Why?" - he takes a good approach there. I hesitantly answer, "Because I didn't get you anything..." I am relieved when he confirms that he too is a bad spouse and neglected to buy me a gift. We're perfect for each other!) Back to Easter dinner now. It was delicious! Jessica is a wonderful cook and she went all out with a Thanksgiving-type spread. Her pnut butter pie is practically to die for!
Let's see... upcoming adventures for me... We are going down to Malibu for the Bible Lectures at Pepperdine University during the first week of May. I think we might make a stop at Disney's California Adventure. I'm such a kid, but I love theme parks. Also, our 2 year wedding anniversary is coming up on May 15th - crazy. I can't even believe it's been that long already! And yet, it kind of feels like I've been married forever. By the way, at what point do you stop being a newlywed? I kind of feel like I'm past that point now, but 2 years isn't that long when you consider people that make it to their 50th anniversary. Hmm...maybe about the 2 year mark is when you make the transistion into oldlywed.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Almost Spring...
Did you know that Spring arrives in just 2 weeks? I am so ready for it, and that means that summer will be just around the corner! I guess I haven't posted since Christmas, and well, that was awhile ago. I do have to apologize to my adoring fans. I'm still alive, I just am not on the Internet very often. So sorry. I haven't even been reading other people's blogs, so I'm gonna' have to go get caught-up after I post this!
To be honest, I really don't know what has happened since December. Lots of stuff I suppose. I'll give ya the highlights I guess... David got a job back in January, and that was a giant blessing. He's working for CrossCut Hardwoods in NW Portland. He started there as a temp, got hired on officially, and then got promoted to warehouse lead - all in a matter of 2 months! Basically his job entails receiving and shipping loads of wood, driving a forklift around, stocking their supply store, and helping customers. He's always exhausted at the end of the day, but he's having fun, and I'm glad he's doing something he enjoys.
My job at Cascade is still going really well. I feel a lot more comfortable with everything now and have been able to reduce my "To Do" pile considerably. It's sort of a slow time of year for us right now, but things will pickup again this summer. We just had a recruiting weekend on campus during February which was a lot of fun. About 30 high school kids came to it and we toured them around Portland, took them rock climbing, spent an afternoon up on Mt. Hood (no Christy, I did not snowboard - I chickened out and played games in the lodge), and basically gave them the Cascade experience.
David and I got a guinea pig! (I know, I know - it's not a chinchilla, and it will never replace that place in my heart that I reserve only for chin chins, but we love him just the same.) The Wagner family purchased Rufus (the guinea pig) and then quickly discovered that their dog was not very compatible with him. Their terrier kept trying to hunt him and it became a stressful situation so they offered him to us. Of course I jumped at the chance to own an adorable little rodent! We have lots of fun with him, but we think a vet visit will be in his near future (more on that in a future blog perhaps...)
I turned 24 last month. It's a big one, I know. My birthday was nice. I honestly can't remember the details - it's been awhile (and I'm getting old, as I mentioned, hee hee) My mom came up and took me scrapbook shopping which is always enjoyable. David threw me a little shindig/Superbowl/birthday suprise thing. (Christy - you were a pleasant suprise!) The ice cream cake was super yummy too. =) Speaking of birthdays...David is joining me in the 2-4 category tomorrow. Happy Birthday Davey! I know, I totally robbed the cradle - a month and 2 days difference. Sheesh.
Okay, what else? Oh Valentine's Day came and went. We neglected to make any dinner reservations so we just had a nice candlelight at home. I think it was better than braving the crowds though. =) I got a nice pot of beautiful purple flowers at my office and a card and chocolates. Nothing too mushy, but just right. =) David just got chocolates and a card, I guess he scored more romantic points than me, but I made dinner so I think we're even.
We took a little weekend break to Seaside a couple weeks ago. We got a nice room on the beach (didn't really matter since the weather was pooey...) It had a nice fireplace, balcony, cable TV (a luxury for us), and a giant jacuzzi tub - so sweet! It was a relaxing mini-vacation, and we took advantage of the great shopping on the promenade and the outlet mall.
Phew, well that's the highlights clip for now. I should probably get back to work since I'm being a slacker this morning. I'll go check out what the rest of you have been up to and then get back to the files. Thanks for faithfully checking my site (despite the fact that I have been letting you down for awhile!) More later, I promise!
To be honest, I really don't know what has happened since December. Lots of stuff I suppose. I'll give ya the highlights I guess... David got a job back in January, and that was a giant blessing. He's working for CrossCut Hardwoods in NW Portland. He started there as a temp, got hired on officially, and then got promoted to warehouse lead - all in a matter of 2 months! Basically his job entails receiving and shipping loads of wood, driving a forklift around, stocking their supply store, and helping customers. He's always exhausted at the end of the day, but he's having fun, and I'm glad he's doing something he enjoys.
My job at Cascade is still going really well. I feel a lot more comfortable with everything now and have been able to reduce my "To Do" pile considerably. It's sort of a slow time of year for us right now, but things will pickup again this summer. We just had a recruiting weekend on campus during February which was a lot of fun. About 30 high school kids came to it and we toured them around Portland, took them rock climbing, spent an afternoon up on Mt. Hood (no Christy, I did not snowboard - I chickened out and played games in the lodge), and basically gave them the Cascade experience.
David and I got a guinea pig! (I know, I know - it's not a chinchilla, and it will never replace that place in my heart that I reserve only for chin chins, but we love him just the same.) The Wagner family purchased Rufus (the guinea pig) and then quickly discovered that their dog was not very compatible with him. Their terrier kept trying to hunt him and it became a stressful situation so they offered him to us. Of course I jumped at the chance to own an adorable little rodent! We have lots of fun with him, but we think a vet visit will be in his near future (more on that in a future blog perhaps...)
I turned 24 last month. It's a big one, I know. My birthday was nice. I honestly can't remember the details - it's been awhile (and I'm getting old, as I mentioned, hee hee) My mom came up and took me scrapbook shopping which is always enjoyable. David threw me a little shindig/Superbowl/birthday suprise thing. (Christy - you were a pleasant suprise!) The ice cream cake was super yummy too. =) Speaking of birthdays...David is joining me in the 2-4 category tomorrow. Happy Birthday Davey! I know, I totally robbed the cradle - a month and 2 days difference. Sheesh.
Okay, what else? Oh Valentine's Day came and went. We neglected to make any dinner reservations so we just had a nice candlelight at home. I think it was better than braving the crowds though. =) I got a nice pot of beautiful purple flowers at my office and a card and chocolates. Nothing too mushy, but just right. =) David just got chocolates and a card, I guess he scored more romantic points than me, but I made dinner so I think we're even.
We took a little weekend break to Seaside a couple weeks ago. We got a nice room on the beach (didn't really matter since the weather was pooey...) It had a nice fireplace, balcony, cable TV (a luxury for us), and a giant jacuzzi tub - so sweet! It was a relaxing mini-vacation, and we took advantage of the great shopping on the promenade and the outlet mall.
Phew, well that's the highlights clip for now. I should probably get back to work since I'm being a slacker this morning. I'll go check out what the rest of you have been up to and then get back to the files. Thanks for faithfully checking my site (despite the fact that I have been letting you down for awhile!) More later, I promise!
Tuesday, December 27, 2005
Merry Christmas!
I hope that everyone who reads this blog had a very Merry Christmas - I know that mine was really great! Last week David and I went up to Spokane and visited his family. There was still some snow on the ground up north, but no new flakes fell while we were there. The boys all went skiing one day during our stay, but I'm glad I didn't join them because it was rainy and slushy the whole time. Besides, I got to spend some quality time with my mother-in-law. We went and ate at the Mongolian Grill and did some window shopping together.
David and I spent Christmas morning at our own apartment. He was just like a kid and woke me up early to open our presents to one another. I didn't get the new car and new bedroom set I really wanted, but I was pleased with all of my gifts. (note: I really did not expect those large presents anyway...) We then went to the Christmas service at our church. The kids put on a really cute performance (they all did so well!) and David and I had a reading part during the program too. After church we made some yummy omelets for brunch and then took a long winters' nap. (just like the Christmas poem says we ought to do) We then played with some of our presents and had Eric and Niki over to watch Eight Crazy Nights and play games with us.
On Monday, we braved the malls to exchange some gifts and take advantage of all the great clearance deals. (In case you're curious, we are stocked with Xmas wrap and ribbons for the next several years!) Later this week we will be going to visit my family and will join in our annual Christmas party with all of my extended family too. Man, it really is nice to have such a long holiday break!
David and I spent Christmas morning at our own apartment. He was just like a kid and woke me up early to open our presents to one another. I didn't get the new car and new bedroom set I really wanted, but I was pleased with all of my gifts. (note: I really did not expect those large presents anyway...) We then went to the Christmas service at our church. The kids put on a really cute performance (they all did so well!) and David and I had a reading part during the program too. After church we made some yummy omelets for brunch and then took a long winters' nap. (just like the Christmas poem says we ought to do) We then played with some of our presents and had Eric and Niki over to watch Eight Crazy Nights and play games with us.
On Monday, we braved the malls to exchange some gifts and take advantage of all the great clearance deals. (In case you're curious, we are stocked with Xmas wrap and ribbons for the next several years!) Later this week we will be going to visit my family and will join in our annual Christmas party with all of my extended family too. Man, it really is nice to have such a long holiday break!
Monday, December 19, 2005
So About that Movie...
I'm gonna' have to go see The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe again because I only got to see the first half of it. It's a funny story really...well, at the time it wasn't so funny...
David and I took the youth group to see the flick on Sunday evening. We got to the theater and David was waiting outside for one of the kids who was going to be late. I took the other five teens inside to get seats. We entered the crowded theater and found 4 seats together. A couple of us sat in the those while the others searched for more seats. One of the kids went back out to get some nachos and I thought that another kid, we'll call him "Gus," went along with him. Anyway, the previews started, most of the teens had seats, and the one kid returned with his liquid-cheese-covered chips. A little bit later, David and the last teen came into the theater and joined us. We were ready for the movie to start! Except for one small problem...no one knew where Gus was.
Our group looked through the theater and then David left to search the whole building. I stayed in my seat and tried to watch the movie, but I started getting distracted when Gus' parents arrived and started looking for Gus in the theater too. Then I noticed security personnel roaming about and finally several police officers patrolling the aisles. At this point, I gave up trying to watch the film and joined the search party in the lobby. We were really worried because no one knew where Gus was. They started reviewing the security tapes and I was imagining all the things that could have happened to him. I started feeling guilty for not keeping better track of the kid. Did he get abducted? Was he hiding from us? Where the heck was he?
Well, we waited in the lobby and kept searching all the theaters until our movie ended. We searched the crowds of people as they exited, and suddenly we saw Gus making his way out! Get this, the kid had been in the front row the whole time! He didn't even know that we were looking for him and didn't notice the search party that kept walking past him (not to mention the fact that we never noticed him!) *sigh* So at least the story had a happy ending. Although, I really need to go see the movie again - this time without any kids!
David and I took the youth group to see the flick on Sunday evening. We got to the theater and David was waiting outside for one of the kids who was going to be late. I took the other five teens inside to get seats. We entered the crowded theater and found 4 seats together. A couple of us sat in the those while the others searched for more seats. One of the kids went back out to get some nachos and I thought that another kid, we'll call him "Gus," went along with him. Anyway, the previews started, most of the teens had seats, and the one kid returned with his liquid-cheese-covered chips. A little bit later, David and the last teen came into the theater and joined us. We were ready for the movie to start! Except for one small problem...no one knew where Gus was.
Our group looked through the theater and then David left to search the whole building. I stayed in my seat and tried to watch the movie, but I started getting distracted when Gus' parents arrived and started looking for Gus in the theater too. Then I noticed security personnel roaming about and finally several police officers patrolling the aisles. At this point, I gave up trying to watch the film and joined the search party in the lobby. We were really worried because no one knew where Gus was. They started reviewing the security tapes and I was imagining all the things that could have happened to him. I started feeling guilty for not keeping better track of the kid. Did he get abducted? Was he hiding from us? Where the heck was he?
Well, we waited in the lobby and kept searching all the theaters until our movie ended. We searched the crowds of people as they exited, and suddenly we saw Gus making his way out! Get this, the kid had been in the front row the whole time! He didn't even know that we were looking for him and didn't notice the search party that kept walking past him (not to mention the fact that we never noticed him!) *sigh* So at least the story had a happy ending. Although, I really need to go see the movie again - this time without any kids!
Sunday, December 11, 2005
Month-long Summary
I wasn't too quick with that Thanksgiving update I guess... We did have a great time visiting both of our families though. We spent three days with David's family first. His parents moved to Spokane, WA and we got to see their new house and help them unpack a little. Then we went and stayed at the Elkins Resort in Priest Lake, ID for Thanksgiving. His family (extended family - grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, nieces, nephews, etc.) got together in a big cabin to celebrate the holiday. (And when I say cabin, I use the term loosely because this thing had 7 bedrooms - it was so beautiful!) Lots of good food was had and we even saw a little snow. We were a bit disappointed though because we brought all of our snow gear and there wasn't enough to go out and play in. No snowmobile fun for us...
After our Idaho trip, we drove down to Philomath to visit with my family. They are currently remodeling their house (okay, so they've been working on it for years and years...) so things were in an upheaval, but we had a nice relaxing time. My mom went crazy baking pies and various types of bread and we played lots of games. David went with my brothers to watch the new Harry Potter movie, but thankfully they let me stay home and hang out with my sister. (I apologize if I offend any HP fans, but I'm just not really into it that much.)
Now it's December and I can't believe that it's only 2 weeks until Christmas! That means I only have 14 days to get all my Xmas shopping done. (Yeah, that's right, I haven't started yet...) I'm excited that I will have a week and a half off for the holidays. David and I are planning to have some time with both of our families and also to continue some new Christmas traditions of our own. We got our tree about a week ago and had a fun time putting up all of our decorations. We still don't have any presents under it, but I'll work on that in the next couple of days.
My new job is still going well. I think I am done with weekend training for awhile, and I'm relieved that I will be able to catch-up on some things now that I know how to do them. The stacks were getting pretty large for awhile there... Speaking of work, I got to hang out with some old co-workers last week (not that they are old, but it sounded better than saying ex-coworkers, for some reason.) We had Chinese food at a restaurant near the old CU branch when it was downtown, and then saw Walk the Line. I would recommend the movie - I thought it was really good. I had seen a documentary about Jonny Cash awhile back and it seemed like this film was a pretty accurate portrayal of his life. And Joaquin and Reese can really sing - I was empressed! Tonight we are taking the teens to see The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe and I'm excited about that. I really liked the book and the film looks very well done. I'll let you know what I rate it!
After our Idaho trip, we drove down to Philomath to visit with my family. They are currently remodeling their house (okay, so they've been working on it for years and years...) so things were in an upheaval, but we had a nice relaxing time. My mom went crazy baking pies and various types of bread and we played lots of games. David went with my brothers to watch the new Harry Potter movie, but thankfully they let me stay home and hang out with my sister. (I apologize if I offend any HP fans, but I'm just not really into it that much.)
Now it's December and I can't believe that it's only 2 weeks until Christmas! That means I only have 14 days to get all my Xmas shopping done. (Yeah, that's right, I haven't started yet...) I'm excited that I will have a week and a half off for the holidays. David and I are planning to have some time with both of our families and also to continue some new Christmas traditions of our own. We got our tree about a week ago and had a fun time putting up all of our decorations. We still don't have any presents under it, but I'll work on that in the next couple of days.
My new job is still going well. I think I am done with weekend training for awhile, and I'm relieved that I will be able to catch-up on some things now that I know how to do them. The stacks were getting pretty large for awhile there... Speaking of work, I got to hang out with some old co-workers last week (not that they are old, but it sounded better than saying ex-coworkers, for some reason.) We had Chinese food at a restaurant near the old CU branch when it was downtown, and then saw Walk the Line. I would recommend the movie - I thought it was really good. I had seen a documentary about Jonny Cash awhile back and it seemed like this film was a pretty accurate portrayal of his life. And Joaquin and Reese can really sing - I was empressed! Tonight we are taking the teens to see The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe and I'm excited about that. I really liked the book and the film looks very well done. I'll let you know what I rate it!
Tuesday, November 22, 2005
The New 8-5
I know that I haven't written in awhile, but I have an excuse! ...At my new job I don't have hours and hours to spend on my blog, ebay, Craigslist, etc, - like I did at my old job. I am really enjoying working at Cascade though. It's a little bit weird to be back after being a student here for 4 years and then being away from this environment for a year and a half. (although I just live down the street from the campus...) Anyway, I think it's fun to be back and my co-workers are great! (That's a shout-out to all of you that read my blog, and for the FTCU homies - I do miss our fun times...don't think I have forgotten about you! ...and I'm still up for the tattoos if you are!) I still haven't learned everything in my position yet, but I'm working on it and having a good time. Yeah, enough about work...
I am very excited that it's Thanksgiving time! I get a five day weekend which is fabuloso. David and I are driving up to Spokane to stay with his parents tonight (they just moved there last week) and then we are heading to Priest Lake in Idaho to spend a few days at a big cabin there with all his relatives. We are hoping for lots of snow 'cause we are bringing all our gear and there is rumor of snowmobiles. After some fun in the Spud State, we are driving down to Corvallis to see my family too. (There will not, however, be any snow or rumor of snowmobiles there...) I'm sure we will have fun nonetheless. I'll give y'all a full report when I get back!
I am very excited that it's Thanksgiving time! I get a five day weekend which is fabuloso. David and I are driving up to Spokane to stay with his parents tonight (they just moved there last week) and then we are heading to Priest Lake in Idaho to spend a few days at a big cabin there with all his relatives. We are hoping for lots of snow 'cause we are bringing all our gear and there is rumor of snowmobiles. After some fun in the Spud State, we are driving down to Corvallis to see my family too. (There will not, however, be any snow or rumor of snowmobiles there...) I'm sure we will have fun nonetheless. I'll give y'all a full report when I get back!
Tuesday, November 01, 2005
This Just In!
I almost forgot to share this tidbit of information! I will be starting a new job next Friday. Cascade hired me to be the Office Manager in the Admissions Department. I am really excited to start and will share more about it when I have actually begun.
Yard Work, Animal Print Clothing, and Wet Seats
I had a "vacation" last week that was fun. David and I drove up to Couer d'Alene, Idaho on Saturday after I got off of work. We stayed there until Wednesday and helped David's grandparents get ready for winter. We took in all their yard furniture and ornaments (seriously they have more fancy crap in their yard than anyone I know!), pulled up all of their seasonal plants, recarpeted their boat trailer, and chopped some wood. Then we went and helped them out at their cabin on the river. We brought in their boats and dock awning and then repeated the chore of dragging in all their yard knick-knacks. After all the work was done we got to have a couple days break there.
Halloween has come and gone yet another year. David and I joined a couple of parties, carved a crazy pumpkin, and ate our share of candy. We decided to dress up as cave people, and David crafted us some costumes out of a furry leopard fabric. I wore a bone in my hair and he wore a nasty long black wig. It was pretty stone-aged.
It seems that some theives decided to celebrate the holiday by trying to steal my car. When we went out to leave for work this morning we noticed that my passenger side window had been smashed-in. It was raining really hard and the inside of the car was getting pretty soaked. The meanies ripped out my stereo, took apart the steering column, emptied the glove compartment, and threw stuff around in the trunk. Thankfully, it doesn't look like they took anything (not that there was anything worth it in there anyway...) And I have the bestest husband ever, because he took care of all the mess and replaced the window all himself. He's pretty awesome.
Halloween has come and gone yet another year. David and I joined a couple of parties, carved a crazy pumpkin, and ate our share of candy. We decided to dress up as cave people, and David crafted us some costumes out of a furry leopard fabric. I wore a bone in my hair and he wore a nasty long black wig. It was pretty stone-aged.
It seems that some theives decided to celebrate the holiday by trying to steal my car. When we went out to leave for work this morning we noticed that my passenger side window had been smashed-in. It was raining really hard and the inside of the car was getting pretty soaked. The meanies ripped out my stereo, took apart the steering column, emptied the glove compartment, and threw stuff around in the trunk. Thankfully, it doesn't look like they took anything (not that there was anything worth it in there anyway...) And I have the bestest husband ever, because he took care of all the mess and replaced the window all himself. He's pretty awesome.
Friday, October 28, 2005
Google Fun
Jamie had a brilliant idea (as she generally does) and I have decided to copy her...I went to Google and typed "Carrie needs" into the search bar. These are my favorite results:
Carrie needs more than deep-breathing exercises. (from the book Sharks, Jellyfish, and Other Deadly Things)
Carrie needs a nice, hot bath. (from a discussion about the Stephen King novel, "Carrie")
Carrie needs to change and adapt to a more adult style now. (Isn't that true!? - from an American Idol debate regarding the infamous Carrie and Bo.)
Carrie needs to get to the hospital, but they're blocks away. (from an episode of Sex in the City)
Carrie needs to return too. (according to 44% of those surveyed about Days of Our Lives)
Carrie needs to go home. (Mmm-hmm, that one is true - from another website about the American Idol star, but I think I should personally take this advice - I'm out!)
Carrie needs more than deep-breathing exercises. (from the book Sharks, Jellyfish, and Other Deadly Things)
Carrie needs a nice, hot bath. (from a discussion about the Stephen King novel, "Carrie")
Carrie needs to change and adapt to a more adult style now. (Isn't that true!? - from an American Idol debate regarding the infamous Carrie and Bo.)
Carrie needs to get to the hospital, but they're blocks away. (from an episode of Sex in the City)
Carrie needs to return too. (according to 44% of those surveyed about Days of Our Lives)
Carrie needs to go home. (Mmm-hmm, that one is true - from another website about the American Idol star, but I think I should personally take this advice - I'm out!)
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