These are a few of my favorite things...

I cannot believe how fast time flies! It's the Christmas season. What a joyous occasion to celebrate the Savior's birth with family and friends. I sit here tonight typing while I have our littlest cat, Meiko in my lap. It's times like these that make me happy I'm such a cat person, they really are wonderful creatures.

I haven't posted my latest receipes lately and it's such a bummer! I'll definately have to upload the pics in the next post, quite busy tonight, we are going tree hunting with my parents and then celebrating Rick's 26th birthday. Going to be a fun night...even with the chilly weather!

What I can post are some pictures from the Phi Sigma Sigma Alum Ornament Exchange. It was my first year going (have been an alumna since 2007) and I was very happy I went. Everyone was to bring an ornament of their choice (I bought mine at Pier 1, naturally) and a dish that would be entered in the best food contest. Our exchange was quite fun and entertaining, much stealing ornaments, "oooohs" and "ahhhhs".

I stole my ornament from Kara and felt so bad...but I really wanted them and so glad I took them lol. As for the best food contest, I entered a pampered chef chicken wreath that I have made in the past and it was a sure-fire winner (had to compete with Ashley since she made nutella crepes with strawberries...yum-o!).

All in all it was a fun event and I'm glad I saw some old faces...there was an announcement of a recent engagement and pregnancy (different sisters :D). So much fun!

Remember, Remember, the 5th of November...err 8th :)

So I'm so happy it's November! My favorite time of the year: fall. Have been cooking/baking up a storm and preparing for Thanksgiving! I've been taking some classes at our local Williams Sonoma store and they're been very fun and helpful. I think I will do brining for the turkey this year; found a lovely apple cider one. Super excited!

I hung out with the girls on Thursday night at Amanda's new house and we ended up visiting a new place, Cafe Crepes. Ordered this delicious nutella w/ bananas crepe and I just had to re-create it. I made it the next morning for Eric. It's a surefire win! Changed the receipe with adding a whipped cream glaze...for added effect.


I have also been working on our second bedroom, the den, or as Eric likes to call it "The Man Cave". Trying my hardest to make sure it doesn't look that way. Things have been coming together nicely, however apprehensive to set everything up since we plan to move wherever/whenever I land a job. Hate moving lol. Trying my hardest not to think about it. Nothing is set in stone, but I have been applying not out of town. Hopefully our prayers will be answered shortly!

October so far...

I was meaning to write a blog earlier this weekend but life happened :) Saturday morning I made Eric his favorite, Baked Apple Pancakes. I found the receipe in my Bon Appetit cookbook and fell in love. It's so yummy and so fun to make!

We had a very busy Sunday; went to Church, had grandma and grandpa Bryant over for pie and Kim and Daniel for dinner. For dinner I made margherita pizza and it was delicious! Next time though I'm going to transfer the dough directly onto the oven rack rather my pampered chef pizza stone. It was crispy...but not crispy enough ;) We enjoyed such a wonderful day but it ended up being so late for Eric to start on his homework.

Thursday of that same week, Eric started his internship at Kern Medical Center as a Research Assistant. I was really proud that he went for the position and there was a high volume of applicants. He was of select few. His job consists of doing respiratory research on patients, elbow constraints and SIDS research. He works in the ER and seems to be enjoying it all...even with doctors to my surprise. Friday he worked until midnight and I had to take a picture of him; his silly labcoat was the hardest to find in town considering many guys has his size. Who would have thought? I was a bit upset that the labcoat I bought for him last Christmas was too long from the hospital's standards, oh well he uses it for lab at school anyway.

I've been researching more about the CBEST and substitute teaching; while I've had preschool experience it's nothing like I would be doing for BCSD. I received an impression today while visiting the temple that I should try to do that for now. It's been rough on us, especially since this is our first year of marriage me not working. While I love the duties of being a housewife/homemaker, I want it to be on my terms. I miss work! Can you believe it? I miss being productive and being socially active in the workplace. Luckily I've been keeping myself busy with my church calling, volunteering any chance I can get and hanging out with good friends. The Lord has greatly blessed us and he keeps our heads held high during these rough times. I keep on telling Eric we should start a family with all my time off :) hahah that won't be discussed until next year. Oh well!

Oh, I almost forgot! We were BOO-ED last night while spending FHE at the West's (AND celebrating J's 19th!). It was super fun and we played the most outrageous game, "Bite the Bag". Instaneously laughter. We enjoyed our phantom goodies as well and thank you to whoever you are!

All I Want For Christmas

I know it's a bit premature, however I tend to forget these things and when mom asks, "What do you want for Christmas?" I can now refer to this!

This summer I went to go see Julie & Julia with my mom; I really want to read the book now and I think I may just pick that up today since today is such a wonderful day to curl up next to a good book. I've always been a fan of Julia Child; my mom used to watch her on the tele *yes I am going to use that word!* and I foundly remember this stalky, tall woman bumbling around the kitchen and drinking lots of wine. lol. Wonderful childhood, right? I remember those memories of tv, shopping and cooking. What else is life about? :)

Anyway, the movie was quite spendid and I never understood why I didn't have Julia's cookbook. So that is all I want for Christmas, Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking Box Set if possible. Thanks, Santa.

P.S. Tonight for dinner: Artichoke Chicken and Rice

1 to 1 1/2 pounds chicken breasts halves
1/4 cup flour
3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups converted rice
1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper or pimiento
4 green onions, chopped
4 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 1/2 cups chicken broth (use bouillon, canned, or base)
1 can cream of celery soup, low fat
1 can artichokes, quartered and drained

Preparation:
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Combine flour, cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Dredge chicken in the flour mixture then brown in the hot oil. Transfer chicken to the slow cooker. In the hot skillet, saute bell pepper, green onions, and mushrooms for about 2 minutes; add chicken broth and soup, stirring to combine thoroughly; pour over chicken. Stir in rice and artichokes; cover and cook for 5 to 6 hours on low. Serves 6.

The Married Life

We are married!!! It's been awhile since I have blogged, and oh have I missed it! I hardly doubt anyone reads my thoughts, but it's nice for me to have this posted and it gives me something to do while taking a break from searching for a job. Alas, I am still unemployed. It's been a blessing in disguise however, I have been quite the Suzy Homemaker if I do say so myself :) I have been making meals ever since we got back from our Honeymoon and I can brag that I have not duplicated one yet!

Last night we had shrimp with fetticine alfredo....with pumpkin whoopie cookies and pumpkin pie. Yes, lots to eat for breaking our fast lol. I think I'll post as much as I can with what is for dinner. I have been on my facebook, but this is nice, too. Possibly an electronic cookbook. hah.

We're Getting Married!

So much has happened since the last post! Eric proposed when we went to The City (SF), well actually in Oakland at the Temple! Since then it's been a whirlwind of dates, meetings, online ideas, invitations, planning, preparing and craziness. 27 days to go and certaintly counting!!

The wedding is less than a month away (August 8th!) and we couldn't be happier. Yesterday was my bridal shower and a beautiful one I might add. I am so grateful for my wonderful friends and family; they really did "shower" me with gifts! My bridesmaids were amazing and made everything so beautiful. I especially loved my cake!

Lots of family and friends attended; we received so many gifts, it's such a blessing. Our first home may be little but it will be ours. I'm really excited in decorating! Mom and dad got us our front load washer and dryer! Super excited to have those in full swing. We are truly blessed.

We're almost done finalizing things...we got all the big things done, just now the zillion little ones. Hopefully things go according to plan and at the end of the day what matters most is that Eric and I will be sealed for time and all eternity! I cannot be happier than to marry this boy, I've already invested in waterproof makeup for the sealing. I practically bawled my eyes out when he proposed so I'm praying that I am sentimental come sealing time, but not a waterfall lol.

I started a website for our wedding, just some info for guests who have lost their invite, have forgotten to RSVP and needs reminding, etc. I hope everyone can come celebrate our love!

http://weddings.theknot.com/pwp/pwp2/view/MemberPage.aspx?coupleId=9492304883891093

Memorial Day Fun

Even though I am not currently working, it was nice to observe a holiday :)

We ended up having a day full of fatty foods and swimming. Although I didn't get any pics of us in the pool...we're not exactly 5 years old anymore with such wonderful bodies, I was still able to get the sun I needed. LOL. The day consisted of turkey burgers (yum), a taco bar, homemade rootbeer (yes, a first for me) and homemade cinnamon rolls (told you it was a fatty foods day. Thanks, Rebecca).

All in all it was a wonderful day spent. Today I'm packing and planning for our trip to San Francisco. I am super excited for it, heard it was super cold. Time to bundle up in May. My 25th Birthday is this Saturday and I'm not too excited for it; I just want presents :D We're going to visit the Oakland Temple and hopefully do 2 of my family names!

I had a job interview last Friday after the week in Utah (I did a turnaround coming from Utah that Thursday night to Downey, CA around midnight...SUPER FUN.) The interview was in Newport Beach for the City of Newport as a HR Specialist. Why did I interview for an out of town job? Well, I simply can't find anything in town for HR. No one is hiring ironically for a HR Specialist in Recruiting. *sigh*. There are a lot of factors in play if I accept the job. I basically have to pray a lot for my answer on what step to take next in this chapter. Wish me luck...and pray! :)

It's hot as Hades

So last week, and into this week I've been ill. Wednesday night at 11:30 pm is when it actually started. My stomach hurt so bad and I was throwing up every 15 minutes until 3 am-ish. This continued each day; I was so nauseous and could not hold down even a sip of water. What did/do I have? Some crazy stomach flu that has adapted to my body apparently.

Today is not so bad, but I'm extremely sensitve to everything I eat and very tired. Eric's grandma, Nina Jorgensen passed away last week and tomorrow is her viewing and service at 9 am at the A Street Building. We were fortunate to see her a lot the past couple of weeks with Cory's homecoming and such. Eric and I visited her at the hospital twice and dropped by some yellow roses. I am happy that she is finally without pain and can be with Grandpa Jorgensen. She was a wonderful woman and fun to talk with; she'll be missed but we'll meet again :) We're going to Utah on Tuesday for the actual burial and I'm hoping I can make the car ride since we are no longer flying. I hope my stomach will be ok by then; been on a light solid/liquid diet the passed few days. Cannot tell you how much I crave burgers, pizza, sweets!

Speaking of sweets, yesterday (and today but it's the Sabbath) was Dewar's 100th anniversary. They celebrated with an all day event of games, prizes and free samples of their 8 new flavors of chews just for the event; they are peanut butter & jelly, pistachio, carmel pistachio, vanilla, roasted pecan, hot chili, george's special and grape. Of course we ended up getting pistachio (the best flavor in the world).
It was SUPER hot and I'm used to the heat (hey I've been in Arizona when it was 114 degrees at 11 pm!). But the air was more than humid, it felt like we were in an oven. I couldn't breathe!! Luckily Rebecca and her family were kind enough for me and eric to take a dip in the pool afterwards :)





I made these cute little candy bags for the YW today with my lesson on Reaching Out to Others. It says " A little spoonful of patience helps every friendship grow".

Utah...again!

Last weekend Rebecca and I (oh and plus Mateo, too) went to Spanish Fork, Utah to do some "special" shopping. The drive there is something I've never experienced and I can say it wasn't that bad! I luckily had a great driver and a little entertainer in the back seat to keep me busy and not go insane.

Driving through the canyon was fun and passing Las Vegas made me want to stop for some amazing buffet food (next time around). We stopped in St. George to see the temple since I remind you once again I have not driven to Utah before. The St. George temple is SO beautiful. I love the style of architecture and the presence it gives; very different from many of the newer temples.

After St. George we jumped right back in the car to continue our way to Spanish Fork. When we arrived in town, the moutains still had lots of snow! It was such a beautiful place; I can see why people decide to live there. It's only about 20 minutes to Provo and Orem; I could live there :) hah.

Anyway, we had a great time shopping: Rebecca is super woman and such a great friend. We had wonderful taco soup from her Aunt (so good!) and they were gracious enough for us to stay there for the weekend.

As all good vacations come to an end we headed home. The drive back was going pretty fast and we were making good time until we saw a sign that informed us of Hwy 58 being closed. Apparently there was a problem with the high winds and a windmill had wonderfully been projected off into the road. So instead of bearing some shards of metal into the car we were forced to take a detour. As going against my good judgement I didn't listen to the GPS (hey sometimes those little buggers are incorrect!) and listened to a certain someone instead *cough* not anyone in the car. We ended up going through Santa Clarita and headed back down the grapevine (I swear no trip of mine is ever without the grapevine!). This made our trip over 1 1/2 longer than expected.









All in all it was a super fun trip and I'm glad we went. Next time, if anyone has to take a detour from the 58, remember to take the 138 Avenue D...that will cut you across into Gorman and skipping the 5 North COMPLETELY. :)

Baptism

Today is the 4th year anniversary of my baptism into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I cannot believe it has been 4 years since that day! Time has flown by. I am grateful for the gospel and the blessings I receive each day.

My faith is strong and steadfast, but I still have more progress to reach. I thank my Heavenly Father each day for my testimony and for the power of the Holy Ghost. Amazing how the spirit talks to us when we are prepared and listening. I have been going through a rollercoaster lately this year and I believe because of my faith it has kept me not only afloat, but able to bounce back.

I have happy it is Easter weekend; reflecting more of the our Savior, Jesus Christ has been extremely rewarding. I am eternally grateful for his precious gift, his atonement. Because of him, I know things are going to be great.

New Calling

So yesterday I was called to the Miamaid Advisor in Young Women's. I am very excited for this calling; I can only recalling once ever going to YW when I was 16 with a friend. I converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints when I was 20 (4 years this April!). I never got to experience mutual or girls' camp.
I remember when Eric used to go to mutual or when Jessica went to girls' camp; I wished I could be part of it. Now I will live vicariously through these YM lol. I am really happy to be in First Ward and all the blessings that it has brought me. The support from my ward family is amazing and I really feel confident in myself with the gospel.
I have so many ideas to bring to YM; I want to make our own little blog for the girls. They have Mormal *lol such a funny name* coming up and we're going to do make-up day and all that fun girl stuff. It makes me happy since I never had any sisters; again, living vicariously through them.
I had a hard time falling asleep last night, went to be past midnight. I'm only praying that today will be a good day considering the odds are against me: it's Monday, I had less than 8 hours of sleep, it's new employee orientation. I better get going if I want to get to work early and start on some stuff before 8.

Anniversary

Saturday, the 21st was our 10th year anniversary; insanity. We have yet to be married but have been together for 10 years; to me that is an accomplishment. We've exercised our faith in the gospel and in each other that I am comforted to know the next 10 years will be a new adventure of wonder and fun.
We celebrated by have Dim Sum in Chinatown with my mom and my Aunt Jennie; I absolutely love Dim Sum. We went to my favorite place, The Empress Pavillion in downtown Chinatown. Dim Sum is a Chinese traditonal breakfast which is literally translated as "touch the heart". It is usually served from early morning to early afternoon. The dishes are in small portions and are served by waitresses pushing carts. Once a waitress approaches your table and you see something you like, you order the dish by them stamping a card. Dim Sum is super yummy and all I wanted for course was my Shu Mai :) D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S! Just looking at the pictures my mouth is watering :D
Afterwards of an amazing lunch, we went to Chinatown for a bit since my mom and Aunt have never been there together. It was nice to walk around and enjoy the day together. I like to do many things with the both of them considering they hardly get to see each other because of the distance; making new memories with my family is what I am trying to do more frequently. It makes me feel good and I love experiencing new things and showing them what I've discovered.
Eric and I later went to the Diamond District in downtown L.A.; yay :D Later we enjoyed a nice Italian dinner at one of my favorite spots in Sherman Oaks, Pomodoro. We had tickets to go see Lisa Hannigan in West Hollywood and we were both super excited. With the prominent gay atmosphere in West Hollywood, the show was at the Troubadour, which is right in between West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The show ended up not starting until 9 p.m.; which wasn't what we had orginally thought. The opener was Lisa's guitarist, Gavin Glass. He was such a wonderful singer and I really enjoyed his music. Lisa herself was amazing and Eric and I are now bonafide fans. The show ended after midnight and we were both exhausted; we still had to go back to Downey and get my mom who was at my Aunt's. We didn't get home until almost 3; I practically zoned out during Stake Conference, which I'm not too proud of. We had a fun time though!

Valentine's Day

So this Valentine's we (me and eric) were really busy with work and school that we didn't plan anything super special. Our anniversary (don't ask how long lol) is next week and we usually do something during then rather on Valentine's because of how crazy people are in Bakersfield with restaurants.

Eric surprised me with an amazing bouquet of roses and stargazing lilies at work and then took me to lunch on Friday to the Guild House. On actual Valentine's we got together to make dinner at my apartment and just have a nice, quiet night in.

Eric made me a wonderful card (as long as I have a card I am happy) that included a poem from my favorite poet, Pablo Neruda. I made him a card as well; it was a "love story" book of our lives and it included pictures.

We made Fettucine with cream sauce (anything that has pasta and cream I'll eat!). The cream was comprised of bacon (yes!), green onions, fresh basil, and cream (duh). DELICIOUS!! We poured Cherry 7Up in wine glasses and toasted (well we forgot that) to us. I also made for dessert his favorite, Snickerdoodles, but I was so busy cleaning that I forgot to check on them; needless to say some were more browned than others :D They were still good! I'm glad I still had my milk/white chocolate covered strawberries as a back up. All in all it was a very romantic and lovely evening; and I wouldn't have asked for anything more!

Sonnet LXXXI:

Rest with your dream inside my dream

Pablo Neruda

Already, you are mine.

Rest with your dream inside my dream.
Love, grief, labour, must sleep now.

Night revolves on invisible wheels and joined to me

you are pure as sleeping amber.
No one else will sleep with my dream, love.
You will go we will go joined by the waters of time.
No other one will travel the shadows with me,
only you, eternal nature, eternal sun, eternal moon.

Family

Today Eric and I went down to LA to see parts of my family. It was Christopher's 1st Birthday and my what a day he had! Christopher is my cousin Laura's son from my mom's side of the family. I am happy that I was able to share some time with family considering we're all not too far away from one another. Coralynne (daughter of my other cousin, Lisa) has gotten more and more beautiful each time I see her. She has a baby brother, Kai on the way (due April 12th) and has a lot to learn about sharing; she took it hard when everyone wanted to place their attention on Christopher when she wanted him all to herself.


Christopher has been walking since the end of the October of last year, so he has a huge running start from all his other friends! It was a beautiful day in LA; 85 degrees! So nice to get away from the cold in Bakersfield (who knew?!). Chris had a great time playing/eating his birthday cake. I'm sure glad he liked what his Auntie Kimi bought him, a T-REX from Build-A-Bear!

The drive there and back wasn't bad at all; too bad Eric always falls asleep on the car ride home...