Drive

When I saw that Ryan Gosling was starring in this movie, I knew right away I'd see it. I didn't need any other reason ;-) Walking out of the movie theater last night I wasn't sure how I felt about it - but I've decided that I liked it. My only words of advice would be not to go in with any expectations. There was very little dialogue, in fact, I don't even think Gosling's character had a name. Be patient, as the movie does pick up after its slow start. I LOVED the soundtrack, found some of the silent scenes awkward, and was stunned a few times by the extreme "action" scenes. (Feel free to substitute "action" with "violent".) It had a very indie feel to it and I think I'd only recommend it to a select few friends. Don't go if you're expecting Fast & the Furious part 12).

A weekend away...

As our trip to St. Thomas gets closer (15 days) we're all getting more and more excited. Brandon's mom is especially looking forward to this trip because it will be the first time she has left the states (aside from Mexico). So when she invited Brandon and myself to come to Tahoe for a long weekend to "discuss our trip and hang out by the lake" there was no way we could pass it up. We left Friday after I got off work and came home Monday evening. We had a very enjoyable, relaxing time.

Saturday morning Penny had scheduled a facial for me at a little Spa in town (early Christmas present for me!). I have to say it was one of the BEST facials I've ever had and just what my poor dry skin has been needing. If you are ever in South Lake Tahoe, or anywhere in Tahoe for that matter, make sure to see Trish Tomer at Bio Spirit Salon -- you won't regret it.

After my lovely morning, we took a walk through one of the gorgeous trails in Tahoe. There is something about being in the mountain air on a sunny day. It.was.beautiful.

I stole his sunglasses for the picture haha

There was also this underground area where you are actually standing at the bottom of the pond  (on the other side of the glass of course) and it was so neat!



Brandon and his mom Penny

We spent the evening sitting on the pier, drinking wine (and diet coke) and watching the lake. The next day was the Charger/Patriots game so we spent the afternoon at Riva Grill, a cute restaurant right on the lake that also had a big screen TV. The Chargers my have lost but the day was a successful one! That evening we had dinner with Harry and Donna (who own the two bedroom villa in St. Thomas and who were gracious enough to allow us to stay there in October). We talked for hours and hours about their favorite restaurants, shops, and must-dos while we're there. We're OFFICIALLY EXCITED and it really can't come soon enough. I dream of laying on the white sands with a pina colada and a book...it's the only thing getting me through the work days!

Frenchman's Cove - the resort we'll be staying at



I mean, come on!



Another Long Weekend

I took last Friday off of work for my best-friend Kandi's 28th birthday. As per our normal tradition, we spent the whole day together. We started off the day with VG's Donuts in Cardiff (which are, by the way, the best donuts known to mankind, I recommend you go there...soon) then we enjoyed one hour massages, pedicures, lunch at Garcia's in Carlsbad Village and then to the movies to see Don't Be Afraid of the Dark. We spent the rest of the evening torturing Brandon by holding our own karaoke session. (I've contemplated posting the video he took, but it might just be too embarrassing for public viewing.) It was a wonderful day and once again I felt so lucky to celebrate the day my best friend was born!

Happy Birthday Kandi Loren Brown!

The next morning Brandon and I went and picked up our sweet niece Bella. We just felt like she could use some special "auntie and uncle" time so we took her to Chic Fil A. Her mom packed her little backpack (which she felt very cool wearing) with a bib and some wipes. We enjoyed some yummy chicken and playing in the playground area -- she had a blast!

Ahh, I just love her!

Saturday evening we went to Kandi's apartment. She was hosting a dinner party and served her amazing lasagna AND I got to see Jordan, Kristyn and their baby Brooklyn! We played a little Mad Gab, laughed the whole evening and left with full stomachs and hearts :-)

The next day was the first Chargers game! We made our 7-layer bean dip and went over to my brother & sister-in-law's. The Chargers won, we got to stuff ourselves with amazing appetizers and spend time with close friends and family. I am officially ready for Fall!!

Brandon with Holland's baby Rio, and Amber (Brandon's sister) with Lia

By the time we got home from watching the game, I could feel a sore throat coming along and it struck full force that night. I wasn't able to go into work the next day and instead spent the day napping, drinking hot tea, whining and trying to do homework.

Lucy is a great napper

Wedding Memories...

With our one-year anniversary quickly approaching next month, I thought I would share a clip from our ceremony. Brandon's sister decided to film the ceremony with her flip video and I am sooo thankful she did because it's the only video we have! In hindsight, the one regret I have is not having our wedding day videotaped -- so thank you Amber for preserving this memory for us :-)

It's Friday...smile