In 2008....

1. I I was actually able to accomplish my new year’s resolution of losing 30 pounds. All I had to do was write it down.

22. My prince charming finally proposed to me.

3I I was able to go back to Canada finally for summer vacation.

I v I voted for the first time….in one of the most important elections ever.

I I I went out to the bars with my lady friends for the first time. Not as scary as I thought!

Th The invention of Grilled Cheese Nights…..good times!!

A At such Grilled Cheese Nights, I learned how to successfully dress like a tacky old lady.

I actually sold some of my paintings to strangers!

E Enjoyed a very spirited 8-8-08 on April’s birthday!!! Only happens once!

I I saw Patrick Marleau at the movies. He was going to see What Happens in Vegas.

C Casey and I learned that bad luck comes in more than 3s.

I Tried brussel sprouts and Thai food for the first time.

T Two jobs….not necessarily better than one.

I Did one of the most daring things….I got a second piercing in my ears. My Goodness!!!

Ju Jumped on the iPhone bandwagon……LOVE IT!!!

I f Fell in the shower, HARD. I cried, it bruised, I’m over it now.

I I actually allowed my hairdresser to highlight my hair, after always telling myself that I would always stay Au Natural.

S Saw Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban and Michael Buble in concert, not all at the same time obviously.

I I saw Joe Thornton’s butt! On television obviously, for a split second.

I I know how to make a mean Oatmeal Cookie, Malibu and Diet, and an Orange Morgan.

Pete the Dragon

This is what I have been working on for the past couple of days. All of the employees at UA get a manikin to decorate....this year was a dragon, last year was a lizard.

It was a lot of fun to do. They are all so unique and different....You should come by the store to check them out.

A Day in the life of.....

Me.

I wake up to this. The cat has dragged a leaf in from the garage and proceeded to shred it to little pieces, while also frantically running around the house......all while I am still trying to sleep.

A couple hours later, Casey comes home after an emergency root canal. He'd drugged, numb and sore....poor guy. I couldn't help but laugh though at his silly attempt at a smile.

And then.....the kitty....she sure does love her basket.

THIS IS ABSOLUTELY DISGUSTING & TRAGIC

I just cannot believe what I have read.....people in this world are monsters! This sounds like something that you would see in a Armageddon-type movie, where people are fleeing for their lives and trying to save themselves in the madness. But no....these selfish, greedy, materialistic people are simply trying to push their way through the crowds to get to TV's and other great deals on sale.

Just so sad....I really am shocked and cannot believe it. At a loss for words. This is exactly why I stay home on Black Friday.....no way I want to be involved in that madness at all.

Wal-Mart worker dies after shoppers knock him down

NEW YORK – A worker was killed in the crush Friday after a throng of shoppers eager for post-Thanksgiving bargains burst through the doors at a suburban Wal-Mart, authorities said.
At least four other people were injured, and the store in Valley Stream on Long Island was closed.

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. in Bentonville, Ark., called the incident a "tragic situation" and said the employee came from a temporary agency and was doing maintenance work at the store.

"He was bum-rushed by 200 people," co-worker Jimmy Overby, 43, told the Daily News. "They took the doors off the hinges. He was trampled and killed in front of me. They took me down too. ... I literally had to fight people off my back."

Nassau County police said the 34-year-old worker was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead at about 6 a.m. The man's name was not released and the cause of death was not immediately known.

A police statement said shortly after the store's 5 a.m. opening time, shoppers "physically broke down the doors, knocking (the worker) to the ground."

A metal portion of the door was crumpled like an accordion. Shoppers around the country lined up early outside stores in the annual bargain hunting ritual known as Black Friday. Many stores open early and stay open late, and some of the most dramatic bargains are available in limited quantities.

Among the bargains offered by Wal-Mart for Friday were Samsung 50-inch high definition Plasma TVs for less than $800.

Witnesses told the Daily News that before the store was closed, eager shoppers streamed past emergency crews as they worked furiously to save the worker's life.

"They were working on him, but you could see he was dead," said Halcyon Alexander, 29. "People were still coming through."

A 28-year-old pregnant woman was taken to a hospital for observation, and she and the unborn baby were both reported to be OK, said Sgt. Anthony Repalone, a Nassau County police spokesman. Four or five other people suffered minor injuries, he said.

Ellen Davis, a spokeswoman at National Retail Federation, said the group knew of no other incident where a retail employee has died working on the day after Thanksgiving.

Wal-Mart is working closely with police, company spokesman Dan Fogleman said.
"The safety and security of our customers and associates is our top priority," Fogleman said. "Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their families at this difficult time."

Happy Turkey Day!

First of all, I must say THANK GOD!!!! I am back, in the office......on my own computer! I have been without it since Obama was elected President. Casey and I are both relieved that we now do not have to fight over computer privileges....yes, I know, pathetic, but it did happen.

Had a wonderful Thanksgiving with my dad's family in Napa. We headed up there this morning, getting stuck in traffic of course, but Casey remedied that with a little.......singing!

After breaking out the Phantom of the Opera soundtrack....he seriously sang a wicked soprano version of Masquerade.....I could not contain myself .........

He just was THAT good.

So, once we arrived and mingled with the fam, Jason, Casey and I ditched the party to go kill some time at the movies. We saw Four Christmases, which I thought was a great way to start the Xmas holiday season! It was pretty funny in parts, but just ok as a whole movie. I can't believe it's that time of year already though. It still seems like Casey just proposed to me last July.

We had a delicious dinner; Casey's stuffing was a big hit. After looking through all the Black Friday ads and realizing that we STILL couldn't afford anything (hahahaha....well not really), I decided to make myself useful......

And learn how to knit! Here's my mommy showing me how to do some runs for a dish cloth she is making. I got so focused and involved that my hands started to hurt from having them so tightly strained around the yarn.....my grandma kept laughing at me sticking out my tongue in frustration....its supposed to be relaxing apparently!

All in all, another great Thanksgiving....much to be thankful for this year. :)

Finding my way in life.....

So I am trying to figure out what to do with myself. I shall be going back to school in the future, but what for?

I reached out to my trusty internet and found a quiz that would help determine which career field is best for me. I got to answer such great questions as, Would you enjoy.........

training animals?

caring for a large herd of cattle?
inputing data into a spreadsheet?
coaching a sports team?
casting people for movies/tv?

grooming pets?

counting money?

Sure, I'd love to do that last one....as long as it was my own!

It just made me realize that there are a BILLION jobs out there that everyone in the world is doing. Some have a choice, and some are not so lucky. Like the dudes that have to work at the sewage plants where water is recycled (I've been there and walked around....almost puked.) They probably don't REALLY enjoy their job....but it's a job. It could be worse.

Anyway, I am still undecided. The test determined that I was 90% fit for something in the creative field. Go figure.

Halloween Part 2

So, my computer is still broken, which is why I never got around to posting the additional pics that were taken by Casey and myself during Halloween.

I have turned Casey into what he would call........................... a lush. He has found A drink that he likes....which we have no idea what it is called. Orange juice, captain morgan and 7up....tastes like an orange julius to me. Delish!!!

And for all of you who KNOW Casey, he dosen't drink. Not to the extent of getting dizzy and singing at the top of his lungs. Well I was able to witness such thing. He's very talkative, and quite friendly!

Casey and I feeling the world spinning, while sitting on the couch

Casey belting out some Buble

Our version of Halloween Part 1

We were both so excited to get away from the city and just chill at the beach for Halloween. So right when we got there we ran off to the beach for a fun photoshoot.

I was just so excited to be there!

Casey.....being Casey. :)

But after a bit, he warmed up to the camera.... so silly.

I had to drag Casey over to the pond where the ducks roam, graze, swim...whatever ducks do. On our way, he had to show his respect to the Ducks (insinuating the hockey team that is).

I had to plead and beg Casey to get closer to the infamous geese. He hates these things and thinks that if he gets close enough, they will turn around on him and start to attack. Therefore, I had to show him....he has nothing to be afraid of!

He finally attempted to get closer but at the slightest movement, he turned to run away!

This was just such a great weekend.....it needs to be covered in 2 posts.... So



TO BE CONTINUED......

We've arrived!

The weather at the beach is actually quite nice now.... Overcast, but
no rain yet. I convinced casey to walk over to the dreaded beasts....
He actually got close enough for a picture.... And then ran away!

More to come later.

Inspiring

There is just something about the way he talks....and what he believes in....how he cares...how he listens....this moved me.

I can do anything....I was in a boy band.

Lonely artists

Why is it that some artists just don't know when to shut up? Well---I really shouldn't stereotype artists, so.....

Why is it that some people just don't know when to shut up?

Some lady called today to ask "an expert" a question. I guess I was the lucky expert of the day on acrylic paintings.

After talking to her for a good ten minutes, I discovered that.....

she has been painting for 20+ years.
she lives in santa cruz.
she buys a "shit load" of stuff from UA.
its " f$%^ing huge", and not on a stretched frame.
yeah....she swears a lot.
she started this particular painting in 1992.
she calls herself stubborn.
she wants to get her point across, without letting you get a word in edge wise- yet she wants
my opinion?
she is recently divorced, so has moved this particular piece twice.
she normally prepares her canvases with a mixture of gesso and modeling paste, in order to get
a smooth surface.
she has won awards for her previous paintings.
one of her canvases was sent to mexico, where a gentleman royaly "f$%^ed it up".
attempted to put this humongous canvas on the wall by herself, and dropped it several times,
but did not give up....because again, she is stubborn.
is at a hard time in her life right now.
is trying to get back into working again, so doesn't know when she will have time for this
painting.

Yeah....and that's a SUMMARY. I mean, come on lady, I have work to do! Just ask me what the problem is, how you can or cannot fix it, and I will gladly help you! I don't need a biography.

But it just goes to show you the type of people that artists are....eccentric, eclectic, interesting, creative.........and at times......lonely.

At least he tries...

So one of my biggest pet peeves with Casey is that right when he comes home, he plops down in his chair (which is right near the door in the living room) and takes off his shoes and then just throws his socks everywhere. Whenever I get around to cleaning up the house I may end up finding 6 socks or more that need to be washed.....GRRR.....

So Casey knows about my feelings on the situation. Instead of trying to actually put his socks into his hamper, where they will eventually get washed, he makes this........

He stuffs his socks into one sock, which ends up looking like a disformed/diseased foot. I just laughed when I realized what it was. At least he's trying.

We all have goals in life...

Casey just had to fish out the free snickers in the vending machine. Notice the intense focus and anguish on his face as he uses an old, twisted coat hanger.

Mission accomplished!!
P.S. Snickers bar was not harmed in any way during the process of this rescue. It was however, devoured by his boss after rescue.

Seriously?

Why do people have to be such f$#%ing irresponsible, inconsiderate retards?

Casey's car was broken into, which was parked by the side of our place. The shattered his driver's side window to go in and rummage through everything, only to take his ATM card. Which, they then drove off and proceded to the nearest Jack in the Crack, and 76 station to gas up onto there next low life adventure. Casey actually remembers hearing the sound of the glass breaking, and then a car driving off....but thought nothing of it. Unfortunately it would have been too late anyway.

So poor Casey, he has classes to go to, papers and tests.....with his car seat full of glass. I have to leave for work, while he calls his bank, the police, and the window repair company. Luckily everything worked itself out for the day....but it really bothers me and leaves an uneasy feeling in my stomach.

Luckily, I get to park my car in the garage....yes, I'm spoiled. But Casey has to leave his out all the time. What if they had actually stolen the car?! Thank God that didn't happen.....

It just pisses me off and frustrates me that we work our butts off, go to school and try to make a living for ourselves, when these crooks just come in and do as they please. In the end, we spend our hard earned money to repair a broken window that really never needed to be addressed in the first place, but thanks to your f#$%ers....there goes another $200! AAARRRGHHHHH!!!!!!

I need a drink.

Look what you're missing out on!!!

I love it when I get a client who has NEVER had a massage before. They usually get a gift certificate from a boyfriend/girlfriend who just wants them to try it.

First I love it, because I don't have to worry about being perfect. It's not like they are a seasoned veteran who knows just the right touch.

Second, not only will they make some very funny oohs and ahhs.....they end up leaving just so happy and relaxed and can't believe how fabulous it was.

Once you try it, you never go back!

Becoming a Blogaholic

I have just created 2 new blogs...one for my wedding and one for my artwork.

www.paintedchiartwork.blogspot.com

www.caseyalisha10172009.blogspot.com

Enjoy!

Emmys

Did you watch the Emmy's? It was kinda awkward at some points? Like when all the hosts were trying to just wing it!? WEIRD!!! But there were some great comedy moments from Don Rickles, Steve Martin and Jimmy Kimmel.

My favorite part was obviously Josh Groban's tv show melody ensemble thingie.....he was just so good!!!! With all those different accents and voices...true talent!

Venue: Check!!!!

We have finally come to a decision on our venue for the wedding! After almost 2 months of looking and number crunching, we fell in love with the Martinelli Event Center in Livermore, Ca. It is in conjunction with the Garre Winery which is down the hill from the ceremony/reception site.

This is the lawn and ceremony site that is to the left of the banquet room, where the reception will be held inside. I love the trellis with all the greenery hanging from it, and the view of the livermore hills and wineries is beautiful. It's so quiet and peaceful.

This is the courtyard area with a fountain and a fireplace. When these pictures were taken, they had everything set up for quite a large wedding, and the dance floor was placed outside. I am pretty sure we will have the dancing inside. I am pretty sure that I want to string lights across for a European/Tuscany cafe feel. I would also love to add places for people to sit and mingle since this is where cocktail hour will be right after the ceremony. At the end of the courtyard (in this picture) is the banquet room.

Its a very nice, spacious, clean room with great chairs (yes, the chairs were a big selling point for me) and plenty of space for creative imagination with decor. There are drop down screens to show picture slideshows and it is air conditioned or heated (which was a big selling point for Casey....coz God knows he needs to be comfortable!)

So this place is perfect for us. There is a lot of sprucing up that I would like to do to add my own flair...its just trying to figure out all the details.....but that's the fun part!!

So exciting.....now its actually starting to feel like I am going to get married! Yeah!!!!

Casey- "I'm the happiest fat ass right now."

So after going to tour another possible wedding location (things are looking up by the way).....Casey was about to eat his own arm. So driving through Livermore/Dublin area, we pull into the big shopping center off of 580. There is tons o stuff in there! A movie theater, Taxis, Mimi's cafe, Macaroni Grille, On the Border, Coldstone and Fuddruckers. Since neither of us had never been, and had always heard about it we chose.....

And boy what a trip that was. I have never seen that boy so happy and overjoyed over a burger and fries. I gotta say, they were pretty delicious, the burger was perfect size (since you got to pick between 1/3, 1/2..etc) and it was not greasy at all, the bun was perfect and toasted- we got the Southwest burger with bacon, pepper jack cheese and guacamole so the flavor was outstanding. And the fries/onion rings were great with either ketchup or this delicious jalapeno cheese sauce. I know, just about enough to give you a heart attach but yumm.........but no seriously....Casey would just not shut up about how great everything was! It was "the best decision we may have ever made"! And he kept referring to how unbelievably happy he was.....about being such a fat ass. It was quite a hoot to see.

I think he wants to move to Dublin now. (No, not seriously, but he was in heaven.)

WTF?

Why do you need to be 21 to go onto a winery's webpage?

Seriously.....you're not gonna get drunk by licking the screen? Either way, you can easily lie about your age to get into the site anyway.

For Shits and Giggles

Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?

I sleep with them closed, due to the fact that Thornton will push them open during the middle of the night which wakes Casey and I up. If I forget to close my closet door...oops! Mad Casey!

Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel?

Sometimes, if they are good quality or scents that I like.

Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?

Haha.....they are always un-tucked, but I am for sure a "sheet Nazi"....they have to be even on both sides, with no wrinkles and Casey can't be lying on top of them or otherwise I can't adjust them in the middle of the night.

Have you ever stolen a street sign before?

No I don't think so. Maybe when I was in junior high in little ole' Podunk P'ville.

Do you like to use post-it notes?

Yes, I use them a lot at work! But oddly enough have a hard time finding them when I want to! That place is so unorganized at times!

Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?

No, I don't use coupons.

Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of a bees?

Oh geez.....I guess the bees, even though i would hate dealing with all the stings/bites, but a bear could probably do some much bigger damage!!

Do you have freckles?

Umm, no. I have some small birthmarks here and there, but no freckles on my face.

Do you always smile for pictures?

Pretty much I am always smiling.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Oh, there are too many to list right now......a couple of them being rude customers, arrogant/oblivious "rich snobs" and messy people.

Do you ever count your steps when you walk?

No, I have better things to think about.

Have you ever peed in the woods?

Yes, I believe so, when i used to camp with my parents.

What about pooped in the woods?

Yes, see above answer.

Do you ever dance even if theres no music playing?

Well, sometimes, if there is music in my head.

Do you chew your pens and pencils?

Umm....I might bite, but not chew.

How many people have you slept with this week?

Just one, Thornton isn't really a person.

What size is your bed?

California King.

What is your Song of the week?

Hmm.....probably something michael buble/frank sinatra-ish

Is it okay for guys to wear pink?

Sure! Some of them can pull it off!

Do you still watch cartoons?

No...unless its an animated cartoon movie. Some of those are so great!

Whats your least favorite movie?

Ugh...probably Ghost Rider. That was awful....so awful that we turned it off in the middle.

Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?

I wouldn't tell you!

What do you drink with dinner?

Normally just water.

What do you dip a chicken nugget in?

Umm, I try not to eat those too much, but either BBQ sauce or ranch.

What is your favorite food?

Oh I have so many. As a category I would say Breakfast food. As a single item, I would say gnocchi. I dunno....it changes all the time.

What movies could you watch over and over and still love?

Probably Little Miss Sunshine. That movie cracks me up everytime, and I love the soundtrack.

Last person you kissed/kissed you?

Casey

Were you ever a boy/girl scout?

No

Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?

No

When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?

Umm.....probably in February...thank you notes from my birthday.

Can you change the oil on a car?

No...I usually have my dad or brother do it. Maybe they should teach me!?

Ever gotten a speeding ticket?

Hah, not yet....Casey thinks any day now.

Ran out of gas?

Nope, thank God.

Favorite kind of sandwich?

Mmmm....an italian combo on sourdough bread

Best thing to eat for breakfast?

Pancakes or french toast.....or crepes!!!!

What is your usual bedtime?

Lately 11:00....but I am trying to make it earlier than that.

Are you lazy?

I can be when I don't eat right or exercise.

When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?

Oh lots of things, an artist, a sunflower girl, a goth, superman, a nerd, britney spears.

What is your Chinese astrological sign?

I have no idea...I think an Ox.

How many languages can you speak?

Just one.....and I can speak a little french.

Do you have any magazine subscriptions?

Yes, Entertainment Weekly.

Which are better legos or lincoln logs?

I played with both when I was a kid, but now I would probably go with the lincoln logs.

Are you stubborn?

I can be I guess.

Who is better...Leno or Letterman?

I don't watch either that much, but I think Letterman.

Ever watch soap operas?

No, ick.

Afraid of heights?

No, unless I get close to an edge and just start picturing myself falling over, then I freak out.

Sing in the car?

Yes sometimes.

Dance in the shower?

No, ever since I fell in the shower one morning, I stay pretty damn still in there.

Dance in the car?

Hahah....yes.

Ever used a gun?

I have used my brother's BB gun.

Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?

Um, probably my senior portraits....but engagement/wedding pictures coming up within the next year!

Do you think musicals are cheesy?

Yes I hate most of them except Chicago, Sound of Music, Sweeny Todd and Moulin Rouge.

Is Christmas stressful?

It can be, but I try to not let it get that far. It is my favorite time of year.

Ever eat a pierogi?

Yes, they are delicious!

Favorite type of fruit pie?

Blackberry, Raspberry or Apple

Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?

Artist, Veterinarian

Do you believe in ghosts?

Not really....spirits and energy sure.

Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?

Lots.

Take a vitamin daily?

No, but I should. I have a hard time keeping habits like those.

Wear slippers?

When it is cold yes.

Wear a bath robe?

When I get out of the tub from a bath, or its cold.

What do you wear to bed?

A tee and shorts, or pajamas of any other kind.

First concert?

Kenny Loggins

Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?

Target

Nike or Adidas?

Adidas

Cheetos Or Fritos?

Cheetos

Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?

Peanuts

Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?

No

Ever take dance lessons?

In PE

Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?

Something in business, marketing or advertising.

Can you curl your tongue?

Nope

Ever won a spelling bee?

We came in second place.....a couple other times we came in third or fourth.

Have you ever cried because you were so happy?

When Casey proposed, I couldn't stop crying!

Own any record albums?

No

Own a record player?

No

Regularly burn incense?

Not anymore, used to a lot in highschool

Ever been in love?

Yes I am

Who would you like to see in concert?

Michael Buble, Josh Groban, Coldplay- I'd like to see them all again

What was the last concert you saw?

Michael Buble

Hot tea or cold tea?

Hot

Tea or coffee?

Tea

Sugar or snickerdoodles?

Snickerdoodles

Can you swim well?

Yes- well, it depends on what you consider "well"...I took 6 years of swimming lessons when I was a kid....that doesn't make me Michael Phelps, but I don't drown!

Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?

Yes

Are you patient?

I can be.....I also cannot be.

DJ or band, at a wedding?

We are going with a DJ

Ever won a contest?

I have won various art contests.

Ever have plastic surgery?

No

Which are better black or green olives?

Ick..neither.

Can you knit or crochet?

No, my mom has tried to teach me but I never picked it up.

Best room for a fireplace?

The living room.

Do you want to get married?

Yes I am!!! Hopefully within the next year or so!

Who was your HS crush?

I had boyfriends all through-out highschool, 3 to be exact, Dustin, Zach and Jay.

Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?

No....I am not a child.

Do you have kids?

Not yet

Do you want kids?

Yes, but not for another 4 years or so

Whats your favorite color?

Blue

Do you miss anyone right now?

I do....Johanne seems so far away.

An Afternoon in San Francisco

The morning started off with taking a look at 5 different venues in Fremont, Livermore and the Concord area, which 3 of the 5 were definite possibilities. I didn't take any pictures since they were pretty much "drive bys". But I will post more on them later after taking second tours....hopefully one of them pans out.

Anyway, we made our way into San Francisco, where we were going to meet my parents for dinner and the Giants game.

My parents don't really know their way around SF very well so after dropping off our car at the parking garage they were going to pick us up outside of the big Westfield Mall.

Surprisingly, Casey had never been to this mall, and he was just amazed with the layout. He wanted to go all the way to the top...yeah, he's such a little kid at heart. :)

He wanted to take this picture, but was really scared to drop his precious iPhone. Hah!!!

So after finally meeting up with my parents, navigating around town, my father getting furious at traffic, we had dinner at Scoma's. Now, not being a fish eater, this place just doesn't live up to the hype for me! I have no idea what is so special about this place....its not in a fancy location, its not luxurious, its crowded and the food isn't all that amazing...and they just charge you up the butt for everything!!!!!

So after dinner, we found our way over to AT&T park where we went to our CLUB level seats! Great seats and awesome view!

I barely ate much at Scomas...I was secretly pining for ballpark food!

The first food purchase was this delicious caramel corn....and I mean, it really was caramel corn! Dripping and oozing with caramel....sooooooo good!!!! Then I was of to find this great fried bread that I kept hearing so many great things about! And of course, I got it with Nutella

And....these are my warm nuts! Thank god I was able to find them! Casey and I walked all over the stadium trying to find them!!! They were totally worth it!

Grilled Cheese Night; Garden Tea Party

Every so often, the girls who used to/still work at UA all get together at Jaya's house for grilled cheese goodness. This time, a beautiful tent was constructed outside to have an evening Garden Tea Party. We were all supposed to dress up in costume...only a few of us did, but for those unable to, there was plenty of used old lady jewelry to go around!

We had plenty o' beads, bobbles, broaches, bracelets, pins and clip-on earrings to choose from.

Nimisha decided to put on everything that was made of wood. She is very earthy you know.

Annie chose every god-awful pin and broach she could find....she was the royal one of the group.

Jaya invited one of her dear chickens to the party, the poor thing did not wear the necklace for very long.

Rachel came dressed as one of the ladies who teaches at UA (one day this woman came into the store, wearing some tights similar to Rachels, and had a pink, lacy bra hanging out of her butt.) It was quite a hoot.

Johanne looked badass with all of her chains and Canadian earrings. Her hair just added to the flair.

And you could say that I went a little overboard. After putting together quite a mismatch outfit (because you know, some ladies seem to get dressed in the dark) and borrowing a delightful hat from my great friend Wendi, the mound and mounds of beads just added to the effect. AND! I smelled like an old lady too, after dousing myself in perfume!

So after playing dressup, we finally had the infamous grilled cheese sandwhiches. Mmm, delightful!

So after the booze had kicked in, we began story telling and started to re-arrange our jewelry ensembles.

Annie and I had quite a good time laughing.....

...while Johanne seemed content on the swing by herself. I think she was still hungover from the night before. :)

I think I was a little far gone when taking this picture....and Rachel can tell.

All in all, it was a great evening. I am a little unsettled this morning and these pictures are beginning to jog my memory. I don't think I have it on my camera, but I seem to remember lying underneath the stool/table at one point. I think I was just looking for a cozy place to lie down!

Wedding Venue search continues...

So Case and I headed off to Santa Cruz today....mainly to relax and head back to a couple spots that we visited on the day he proposed. Went back to The Crepe Place for breakfast, which was actually disappointing the second time around.....I think we will try a new place next time.

Earlier I had considered moving over to Santa Cruz because of the weather, being by the beach and all the healthy-ness......but I have changed my mind!!!!

Before heading to our Well Within spa appt, we walked down the main street in Santa Cruz, and I must say.....I was very surprised and creeped out by all the homeless people!! I mean, it was like 10:30 in the morning and they were everywhere, and very blunt and forward about it, not like they were just minding their own business.....they were all up in our business!!!! It just seemed so shady! I was trying to find this art store, and after walking around for a while, we gave up. The atmosphere was so hoboish...is that even a word?

So anyway, after the creepyness and the relaxing time in the spa, we headed to the Sand Rock Farm, which is a B&B in Aptos. Very cute but out of our price range. So we figured that we might be able to drive by one of our other possible choices, even though we knew that we would not be able to have a tour, since they were having a wedding today.

So off we went, trying to find this retreat center in the hills past Corralitos. We were told that it was six miles past the "famous corralitos meat and sausage" place. After climbing through some beautiful, yet windy hills....we start to realize how frickin far away this is......and we are low on gas!!! Do we quit and turn around? Coz god knows if there is a gas station out here in the middle of the redwood forrest. Luckily, we finally found the retreat center.

It just didn't toot my horn. Plus, on the way back down the hill I got car sick! And I never get car sick!!! I mean, I grew up in Pville and drove windy roads for 18 years!!! But this road was just super windy and very bumpy so that didn't help. We don't want our guests coming to the wedding sick. That's just no bueno.

So, two more places to cross off the list. All that is left now are a few wineries and a golf course location. Cross your fingers........hope one of them is a winner!

Engaged for about a month...any progress?

Well, yes and no. We still have not found a venue, or set a date. I have a general idea of what colors I might want for my wedding decor, and I am currently printing out invitation mock-ups. I have yet to try on any dresses, but I do think I have found my photographer.

I am not yet stressed in any way....Casey might say otherwise, but I really am just waiting until we can figure out the venue. Then, apparently...everything falls into place.....like magic!

Exciting News!

I obviously am late in updating this, as I'm sure everyone knows by now, but Casey and I are engaged! He asked me on Saturday July 26th, after a romantic day in Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay. I kept telling myself, "WOW, this is like the perfect day! Maybe he will propose today!? Naw....."

The ring is perfect, exactly what I wanted!

We have not officially set a date yet, but are looking at October 2009 or May 2010. We would like to have it in the Santa Cruz area or along the coast somewhere.

Wild Animals of the Cabin

Just some of the great nature and wildlife that grace the beach at the cabin.

I know this isn't really wild, but the butterflies are very chill. They will land on you sometimes!

These are known as the teenagers on the beach.

These are the babies....there were seven this year...and #7 would always trail behind, often getting lost, then later scolded by his mother. He even got stuck under the raft, but was rescued by me and returned to his family.

There was a nest of baby swallows underneath the dining room table. We had to avoid the area while eating dinner...which got really annoying sometimes. I mean, geez.....we are letting birds control our dinner time! About half way through my stay, they had flown the coop.