"I'm not the woman to blame..."

Let's talk award season...

2012-01-25T14:56:00.000-07:00

Jessica Biel-worst. I think she is so gorgeous, but the granny dress is just ug.

Salma Hayek-best. For once she picked a dress that was proportional to her small, yet curvy frame.

Jessica Chastain-worst. Hate the color, the hair, how washed out she looks. Bad, bad, bad.

Piper Perabo-worst. Just look at it. I mean, is this the same girl who was in "Coyote Ugly"?

Emma Stone-best. She killed it! I love her style. And she's a redhead as well, but she is anything but washed out here.

Jessica Alba- best. From the fake tan, to the dress color- i loved it all.

Julie Bown- worst. What is with the hair? On top of that, the sleeves make it look matronly.

Sarah Hyland- best. Her tv daughter did much better. The hair and the sash were perfect together.

Tilda Swinton- worst. Is this an alien? I mean seriously...

Helen Mirren-best. She is in her 60's! She looks simply gorgeous! Love, love, love

And so far the movies that have amazed me: The Descendants, My Week with Marilyn, The Help, (book is better in my opinion), The Artist, and Moneyball.

Hoping to be amazed soon by: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, We Bought a Zoo, The Vow, and The Lucky One.

Currently:

2011-12-03T19:24:00.001-07:00

I found this little gem on Danielle's blog and decided it could be fun. Here goes.

Obsessing Over: All the things I want/need to do in these next few weeks. I have a amazon cart full, some ideas in my head, and plenty of lists on paper. I want to do a "12 dates of Christmas" with the hubba and I am hoping to start tomorrow with breakfast.

Working On: my cooking and DIY skills. For turkey day, I made a fruit dip, a veggie dip, and my famous meatballs. I found an awesome recipe for DIY sugar scrub that is so cute and would make awesome stocking stuffers or birthday gifts.

Thinking About: All the movies I want to see! "Like Crazy", "A Week with Marilyn" and "Martha Marcy May Marlene." The Broadway theaters are calling my name.

Anticipating: putting the final touches on what is hopefully the end of our nightmare stolen luggage fiasco.
Also, changing my last name at the beginning of the year.

Listening To: the sound of Don Draper in the background. I have become "Mad Men" obsessed in the last week. Playing catch up on past seasons is so fun!

Drinking: about to pour myself some Skinnygirl Margarita, thank you for asking.

Wishing: good health for all those near and dear to me. The old saying is so true... "If we don't have our health, what do we have?"

Our honeymoon, in a hawaiian macadamian nutshell...

2011-11-29T22:16:00.001-07:00

We stayed at Turtle Beach in North Shore Oahu and walked along this...

where we got to sink our feet right here...

and Burke hiked to scary cliffs to take pictures of our sea friends...

and we tried to take a few self shots...

as we walked sacred grounds at waimea falls while looking at gorgeous flowers...

and had the BEST shaved ice at this well known gem...

even going back for seconds...

the little town of Haleiwa was so one of our favorites...

spent a lot of time soaking in the sun at our hotel pool...

and again at the local beaches...

had the best kahlua pork nachos at Ola (they filmed "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" here, and at our hotel)...

we went back to Margaritaville for a few days and indulged in happy hour...

and looked at the fishies in Waikiki...

All in all, we had a great honeymoon.

(I am leaving out the details of getting our luggage stolen on the first day of the trip from the trunk of our locked rental car, Pearl Harbor being closed due to filming of a movie, construction at our resort, price increases during the middle of our resort stay. Nobody wants to hear about those things anyway.)

thankfully...

2011-11-24T12:52:00.001-07:00

things to be thankful for on this shiny november day....

-the heated blankets and comfy fleece lounge pants

-family

-homeowners insurance for replacing all of our stolen luggage while on our honeymoon :(

-amazing food

-well paying jobs that give us all holidays off and paid

-pinterest recipes

-our nieces and nephews who fill our hearts full

-our health

merriest holiday wishes to you and yours!

love, the poulsons

How to celebrate...28 year old style.

2011-10-25T00:07:00.001-06:00

-buy yourself new shoes. Thanks hubba.
-buy yourself 2 new pairs of pants.
-eat a few too many sea salt caramels
-watch an entire disc of "freaks and geeks"
-really become obsessed with pinterest!

In no particular order- here are the glimpses from our wedding day...enjoy!

2011-10-21T23:42:00.000-06:00

glimpse...

2011-10-21T23:19:00.000-06:00

glimpse...

2011-10-21T23:10:00.000-06:00

another glimpse into our perfect day...

2011-10-21T22:59:00.001-06:00

I reccommend...

2011-10-19T19:33:00.000-06:00

Jack's Mannequin has been one of my favorite bands for the last 5 years.

They just released their new cd, and this happens to be one of my favorite tracks.

And if you live in the SLC, they are coming on my birthday!

I can't go. However, I think that our honeymoon to Oahu 3 days later, will ease my pain.

Invest your time...

2011-10-07T00:11:00.000-06:00

My new favorite show.

2 broke girls.

Monday nights. CBS.

(and i never watch anything on cbs)

Introducing...

2011-10-03T18:48:00.001-06:00

Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Burke Poulson

married in front of their immediate family and a handful of close friends

Friday, September 23, 2011

Log Haven, Millcreek Canyon

"I would like to have engraved inside every wedding band Be kind to one another.

This is the golden rule of marriage and the secret of making love last through the years."

-Randolph Ray

(for the record, I engraved Burke's with the legendary words of Bob Marley: "one love, one heart")

me time...

2011-10-02T18:07:00.001-06:00

I found this post on camilla's blog and decided I loved it so much that I wanted to hear what reccomendations and indulgences you have. Here are some of my favorite ways to spoil myself.
-all day netflix marathons while the hubba is at work. (and i watch corny things that I know he would hate, but they suck me in: felicity, family ties, whitney cummings stand up comedy)
-a great library book, hot chocolate and a big blanket on the couch while it rains outside
-summer night walks
-scoring really great deals at Forever 21 that don't leave me feeling guilty
-Sunday morning breakfasts at one of our favorite spots
-adding to my Itunes
-clean sheets and a freshly made bed
-picture taking and sharing

If you get a chance, take a look at camilla's blog here: http://www.camillaleila.com/. She is a amazing blogger with awesome recipes and beautiful pictures. How do you like to unwind?

things i {haven't} had to think about during this process...

2011-08-31T00:28:00.001-06:00

These really made me laugh. And I needed one.

grateful for them..

2011-08-27T23:12:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to very quickly say how lucky I am to have such great friends!
I am not a huge lover of bridal showers. Because I am having such a small, immediate family and a few close friends type of wedding, I feel so awkward about having them. But these girls understood my dilemma, and so, with mine and Burke's family, and a few longtime friends-
Jamie and Steph put the cutest shower together for me today and I know they both worked so hard!

Jamie made the yummiest food, got me the SWEETEST gift and even the most adorable party favors. I have known her since 7th grade and it is so amazing to me how this many years later, we are still so close and she knows me so well.

I can trust Jamie with anything and I love her so much.

She is truly the most wonderful kind of friend you could ask for.

Stephanie, I have known for about 5 years and she is always such fun to be around! Wether we are shopping, crafting, or eating, she makes me enjoy everything! She has such good advice and she is a great listener. Thank you Steph for the adorable decorations you did, and the crafty letters you made for Burke and I to keep. I am so glad we met and have stayed great friends!

Thank you girls both so much for putting your heart into a special afternoon for me! Someday soon I will be repaying the favor for you both.

I love you girls!

it could always be worse...

2011-08-25T15:31:00.000-06:00

So the last few days have been quite the emotional drainage for me. On Tuesday I got up, felt a little tingle near my lip, and then went about my morning. I got my brows waxed and when I got home to start getting ready for work, I looked in the mirror to see blisters forming on my lip. Now, I have very sensitive skin as you may have seen in my post a year ago about the spider bite. This was worse. Not only was it right in the middle of my bottom lip, my skin has been so crazy with breakouts lately that this was just the icing on the cake. I didn't mean to be a barbie, but I NEVER get cold sores, and I am getting married in 4 weeks. Saturday morning I was supposed to be having my makeup trial but I had to reschedule due to the cold sore virus. I called in sick. The next morning, my lip had swelled and I was now getting worried. I need this gone- like yesterday. I called in sick again (luckily if you call in up to 5 scheduled days in a row it only counts as 1 sick day), and Burke took me to the insta care so I could get something. My lip was gross, big and itchy and it was driving me mental. The doctor took one look at me and knew instantly that I needed some medicine to take down the swelling and cut the virus time down. I know stress causes these, but come on. I have so much going on these last few weeks that how could I not be stressed? As I have been at home today praying that this medicine kicks in by Saturday, I have been blog hopping, and found this
http://aurajoon.blogspot.com/2010/08/jack-johnson-gave-me-hivesim-okay-with.html
Oh my gosh! It really could, always be worse.

what appears in our kitchen....

2011-07-28T21:43:00.000-06:00

thank goodness for photoshop....

2011-07-28T21:36:00.002-06:00

and our amazing photographer Cherilyn.

These aren't the final choices and they haven't been edited yet,

but while looking through the disc of images, I loved these.

We took them at the top of the downtown library and a few on the steps of the McCune mansion.

I am so excited to see the fully edited ones and I even want to take more so we can wear different outfits and have a different location.

I also learned that:

a- I am very awkward when asked to pose for pictures.

b- i have incredibly long monkey arms.

c- my teeth rival julia roberts (and that is not a good thing)

d- i need a tan like whoa!

But other than those things,

love them!

Stephanie dear...

2011-07-28T21:15:00.001-06:00

Is my awesome friend who I have known for about 5 years. She is awesome for a lot of reasons, but mainly because on Sundays we like to go to dive flea markets and wash our worries away with sushi and sake.

So here's to friends you know you can always count on for a good laugh, great advice and someone to force you to go to the gym.

Come home soon Steph..... I couldn't tell you the last time I made it to the gym.

Meet the Poulsons...

2011-07-28T21:07:00.000-06:00

Mattie (2) and Zoe (almost 4)
Jenny's daughters

me and the girls at the Layton parade
July 4th

Mattie and her sass. I love this little bean. She is too cute for words. Burke picked her shirt-
it says "being this cute is exhausting"

Burke's mom Paula and baby Kaylyn Olivia
(Lindsay's little girl)

Burke's gorgeous sister Lindsay with her son Christopher and her neice Mattie

Christopher and Tillman (Meggan's first baby)

Burke, his mom and Kaylyn on her birthday at Snowbird

Little lovebug Kaylyn

Burke and Tillman

Tillman baby love

Mommy Meggan and T-man relaxing for fireworks
Meggan is Burke's little sister

baby feet

Meggan's hubby Derrick and his baby boy

This is Burke's uncle Cal (who looks so much like Burke's dad Doug)
sandwiched between Meggan and Jenny (Burke's oldest sister and mom of Mattie and Zoe and soon to be Milo)

Seriously, do they really get any cuter than this???

Thomas family

The Snows
Spencer and Jenny
who we love and miss and wish they lived soooo much closer.

Burke has a truly wonderful family and I am so lucky to be a part of it.

wedding registery...

2011-06-23T22:44:00.007-06:00

Burke and I have decided that instead of the necessary and traditional type of wedding registery, we have instead opted to fulfill our childhood toy dreams of getting the things we always asked for, but for some reason, never recieved.

Oh, and we've also chosen that instead of living in a house made of bricks, we will now be living in a fort made of blankets.

And ps- seriously Candyland? What kind of child does not have this game? Me- I had a skip it.

hi. my name is amber and i'm addicted to taking iphone pictures.

2011-06-20T23:44:00.006-06:00

don't you just love this face? we sure do. keep scrolling, our obsession (okay my obsession) gets worse.

my goal is to read 1 book per week this summer. so far my favorites have been "the help" and "one day". i'm open to your good suggestions for the rest of my summer.

grandma and baby kaylyn. oh my gosh this little bitty thing is the cutest! I adore her

uncle and baby love

memorial day baby snooze.

burke and his "best friend" tillman. how cute that an uncle calls a nephew that.

i love the sunflower market! feta stuffed green olives!

randi's bridal dinner.

and the cupcake that i made the night before that turned out so adorable. until, i discovered that ring pops will melt if you put them in a enclosed cupcake carrier. dang.

i know. i'm obsessed. he's not even my kid.

but who wouldn't love a little tot that can pull off a davy crockett look? (is that the guy's name? i am drawing a blank)

burke at fiesta fun.

i took my mom to elizabeth's tea shoppe and it was so dainty. i highly recommend it.

my bf got married and she was stunning of course.

the end.

Randi and Sean...

2011-06-13T20:32:00.005-06:00

I once met a friend at Costco, some 9 years ago..

who, in turn, met her Mr. at Costco.

My sweet friend married this goofy groom on Saturday, June 11.

And we all came to show them our love and support.

And to celebrate their special day.

The day they would remember on anniversaries for all the years to come.

So here's to Mr. and Mrs. Patience.

Thank you for the years of friendship.

Of sharing our first home away from our parents.

For all our travels, dinners, movies, date nights, and laughter.

I feel so blessed to have been there as you spoke your vows and

walked down the aisle.

(in these killer heels too!)

(our rings)

"I'll take the good times,

I'll take the bad times,

I'll take you just the way you are."

-Billy Joel

28...

2011-05-12T13:39:00.000-06:00

Happy (almost) "Burkeday" to my very favorite guy.

To celebrate you, we are taking a mini weekend getaway with this little guy...

and we all know how much you love him.

Probably just as much as I love this...

Hope you have a wonderful birthday babe! And here's to many more together!

Love, your gir gir

wedding day inspirations/a big mistake

2011-05-03T14:52:00.003-06:00

we just tried to pick up burke's wedding band from sierra west jewelers and they engraved the wrong one. not even the same type of ring (he ordered tungsten, this was titanium), ours was brushed- this was shiny and it wasn't even the correct size. and they wanted me to drive all the way back to orem to get the right one! not happening! anyway, we "supposedly" have the right one ordered and on it's way.

here's hoping :)

where do you like to eat?

2011-04-26T00:43:00.002-06:00

Sometimes I have a hard time choosing where I want to eat. So if you ever need some help, here are my suggestions:

*Sandwiches*- Jimmy Johns or Firehouse Subs

*Thai or Indian*- Thai Spice or Bombay House

*Italian*-classy-Trio, not so classy but darn good- Spaghetti Factory

*Cafe type eateries* -Food for Thought or Cafe Normandie

*Mexican*-Morelia's or Cafe Rio

*Sushi*- Happy Sumo

*Pub Food*- MaCool's Irish Pub House

*All American*- Porcupine

You should get the app urbanspoon if by some unlikely chance you don't have it. :)

Week In Review

2011-04-26T00:35:00.003-06:00

what a sweet little life to be grateful for....

Happy Earth Day

2011-04-21T21:56:00.004-06:00

In celebration of Earth Day here are my top 10 tips for living greener:-Pay your bills online.

-Take reuseable grocery bags to the store. I keep mine in the trunk of my car so that I always have them handy. I also use only one bag when I go shopping at the mall and put all my purchases in it. (Bonus- you can use them for a trash can liner later!)

-unplug your kitchen appliances. With the exception of my microwave and fridge, every appliance in my kitchen remains unplugged until I need to use it.

- wash all your clothes in cold water. trust me, they still clean just as well.

-resuable water bottles. i also bought a brita pitcher which i love love love. purified water just tastes better.

-buy local. (in the summer I love to go to the downtown farmers market)

-use your recycle bins! at work, at home or in public.

-replace your lightbulbs with compact florescent ones. they last longer and often times cost less. most manufacturs or even rocky mountain power give you instant rebates when buying green!

-buy less cleaning products and live toxin and chemical free by using good ol' lemons and water to clean. it works for everything!

-drive the speed limit. it's simple math- less gas, means less stress on our planet.

Oh and ps- I'm not perfect. I still speed, use paper towels and have to shred tons of paper at work that could easily be recycled if it wasn't for stupid hippa laws. I feel guilty about that.

Crushed....

2011-04-18T21:47:00.005-06:00

Boyish good looks and that "aww shucks" kind of appeal. Minka Kelly is girl crush worthy. I fell in love with her when I became obsessed with "Friday Night Lights" and quite honestly I just think she is the most gorgeous girl! How do I look like that?

James Franco. "127 Hours"-enough said. Wait, actually he is amazingly smart. I want to read his book, "Palo Alto". And I thought he did great at hosting the Oscars. Sue me. Girl crush #2- Burke can attest to the fact that if there was one movie I watch over and over again, it would be "500 days of summer". I want Zooey to take me shopping , sing her little folk songs in the car while road tripping with me, and teach me to be just as super cool as she is. Love her!

Ryan Reynolds. Who doesn't love this guy? He can make you laugh and he is awfully good looking in that white tee don't you think?

I once was OBSESSED with a little show called "One Tree Hill", and even though I haven't watched it for years, I imagine it sucks now except for the fact that Sophia Bush is on it. Once at work, a girl told me I looked like her and it made me secretly giddy the rest of the day. I wish!

My biggest crush of the moment has to be this guy though. Only 5 and a half more months until we will be Mr. & Mrs. Poulson!

Serendipity NYC May 2010

April Obsessions...

2011-04-17T19:49:00.003-06:00

I have a lot of blogging to catch up on, but until i can fill you in on everything that's going on right now, here is just a tidbit of what has been on my mind these last few weeks.These Badgley Mischka shoes. I adore. Wedding? That is the only time I will ever consider paying this much for shoes. They are classic and it is a once-in-a-lifetime afterall. Is it not?

I would cut my hair again if I could look as cute as Carey Mulligan. Love the style. Slightly rumpled with a braid. For now, I am following the melting trend of the moment and my hair looks more like hers... just wish my bod and face did too! :) Justin Timberlake she is way too hot for you anyway!

I love fresh fruit in the summer and raspberries are my all time favorite! Make it worth it for yourself and get a big flat of them from Costco for a steal.

Have you heard of Jewelmint.com? Well let me tell you it is amazing! Every month I get to pick from their newest jewelry collection and nothing is over $30!!! Including shipping and handling!

So far I have 5 different pieces and almost all of them have been gold (surprisingly). This month's selection was these fab amethyst earrings designed by Rachel Bilson. I love them and what's even better is that 50% of the proceeds on these go to a great charity which you can read about here:

http://www2.invisiblechildren.com/split_screen

Hope you all have been having a great spring so far! I will be posting more exciting things and lots of pics to come!

peace and love

1 year later....

2011-02-21T16:01:00.002-07:00

Burke moved into my condo roughly a year ago today (and just about 3 months after we began dating- yeah, yikes!), and here's what we've come to learn about each other.

I am a tidy girl. When it was my own mess, it was fine and almost invisible to me. Now every glass left in the sink, every pair of socks left on the floor drives me crazy! We still don't make the bed except for that rare occassion.
I really need to learn to cook. BUT, lets be kind because I have used the crock pot many a time now, and even the broiler. Wow, even typing this I know it sounds pathetic.
We are both bed hogs and as soon as we get a bigger place, we are getting a king sized bed. Don't let anyone fool you, kings are much much better than queen.

Good news though, that poster that's been sitting against the wall on the ground since he moved in and we had to rearrange some things, finally got hung. All it took was a 5 minute trip to home depot, and the 10 seconds of figuring out where we liked it best.

Our romantic date night -3/2/11. Listen.Love.Dowload.You're welcome.

2011-02-21T15:50:00.001-07:00

here's what we've been up to...

2011-02-15T12:53:00.004-07:00

Becoming even bigger gleeks. If you haven't seen this show yet, do what the picture says-join the club. Our favorite character has to be Brittany. Hands down, best one liners!

We celebrated the blessing of our nephew Tillman, and the birth of our niece Kaylyn.

I loved the feeling of seeing these two babies be brought into the world (not literally-i wasn't present for the births), and feeling like I truly can now call myself Auntie! Burke is an AMAZING uncle, and watching him with kids always reminds me what an outstanding father he is going to be someday.

We've chosen a date for the wedding! It will be on Friday, September 23 @ Log Haven in Millcreek Canyon. We are doing a very small and intimate ceremony and dinner there. We will be married in the evening outside in front of the waterfall and have dinner with our immediate families on the patio afterwards. We picked that time of year, and venue location because the fall colors and outdoor feel suited our personalities the best. To see what I mean : http://log-haven.com/. I also already have my dress, and a deposit was made on our honeymoon! Oahu, Hawaii http://www.turtlebayresort.com/. We are so very very excited, and as soon as we know more wedding details we will let you all know. How crazy is it that next month the wedding will be 6 months away??? I don't know how people plan these lavish, really choreographed weddings. I just do not have that kind of energy in me!

Also, Burke is going back to working nights. He got a kind of promotion that is basically allowing him to run the floor at night, and he is in charge of his own crew of people instead of being part of a team of supervisors. I am so happy for him! He is the hardest worker there and I know in no time he will be climbing up the ladder even more. The hours wont' be the most fun, but unlike my schedule, his hours will be the same consistently.

Here are a few other things we have been obsessed with lately:

Episodes of "2 and a half men". Say what you will about Charlie Sheen, but that show is fuuunny!
Going to the gym. It took some time to get me motivated, but thanks to my girl Steph and introducing me to the sauna, I can now hold out for a full 90 min workout! I'm nowhere near the shape I want to be in, but at least I have some time before saying "Aloha."
Netflix. I have so many good selections on their way.

ps- we didn't do much to celebrate v-day yesterday (except an amazing as always, dinner at Zupas), because we are celebrating this weekend! Sanctuary day spa-we will see you on Sunday!

smile. these put one on me.

2010-12-29T14:45:00.005-07:00

-lunch from normandie. I want to recreate their butternut squash soup. -an extra day off on a holiday week so I can veg out on my couch and enjoy every second of it. -Burke bringing me home a Arizona iced tea today. -upcoming plans that make me start organizing 9 months ahead of time so that I can enjoy every inch of summer and this part of life that we will never get back. -everyone's adorable holiday photo cards lining my fridge. -a new dress for new years eve that I got on black friday for $20

our weekend off...

2010-11-15T18:19:00.009-07:00

started with our anniversary dinner up Emmigration Canyon at "Ruth's Diner."

So delicious, but I must say, much more of an atmosphere when you can sit on the patio in the warmer months.Burke got us a room at the Little America hotel where we lounged around at the indoor pool and hot tub. So relaxing! Aaaahhh Once in a while I do put effort into getting ready, believe it or not. I do think the ruffles make me look bigger, but that's ok. I love this dress in the winter with tights and boots, or in the summer with some cute flops. Gracias Target!

We stopped to have on the way to dinner to grab some drinks and let me say how excited I was to find these! I love the blackberry, peach and raspberry lambic. They are belgian beers that I was introduced to at the Bayou, and since I am hardly much of a drinker, these are my favorite things ever!

I loved the quaint feeling of the hotel. They gave us actual keys, (not the plastic cards that every hotel uses these days.) It made me happy to see this old tradition still being used somewhere.

Even the locks were cute! I know, totally weird that I took a pic of this.

Not since I have been on a cruise have I had a chocolate left on my pillows for bed.

How freakin' adorable right?

Goodnight kiss

The next morning we got up and enjoyed their famous breakfast buffet before heading home to relax and enjoy our lazy weekend at home. Sometimes when the weather is lackluster, there really is nothing better for me than to drink hot chocolate, eat soup, read curled up in a blanket, and watch movies curled up with this guy.

Out from hiding

2010-10-04T17:58:00.002-06:00

So, officially I am out from hiding. Not that I really was, but I understand that I basically fell off the face of the planet when Burke's dad passed. It wasn't that I was avoiding anyone, I just had so much emotionally going on between the two of us, that it kinda took over everything. Anyway, I am back now. Here is what I am blogging today- I called in sick this morning. So far, I have accomplised quite a bit. Honestly I could of gone to work, but sometimes being home and crossing things off my checklist while it rains outside is quite comforting. I love FALL! I love Halloween, October, my 27th year of life (3 weeks from today), and most importantly it is sweater and boot season people! I have never been much of a shorts girl, I have always loved my boots, jeans, sweaters and dresses with tights. I am holding out on the shopping though, and concentrating on "rotating my closet." Aimee always laughs at me when I do this, but it is the best way for me not to get stuck wearing the same things again and again and it helps me resist the urge to go out and spend. Things I am seriously loving right now also include: *Glee! I love this show! The musical numbers are on my ipod, and even Burke will sit and watch it with me. My favorite character is Brittany. She epitomizes the typical blonde cheerleader. If there is anyone left on this earth not watching yet, tune in- I promise it's worth the hour. *Reading books. I went to the library and checked out "The Shack", "Magical Thinking" and a Diablo Cody book. (She wrote the movie "juno", one of my all time faves.) Has anyone read "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" ? I hear many good things. Let me know your opinion on it, or give me some other good picks to check out. *Burke and I have almost been dating a year. November 15th is our date. Not sure what we are doing but we took the weekend off, so I have a few ideas. Possibly involving the Little America buffett and a couples massage. Hmm, wish I could get more creative. *Eating better and becoming craftier. After checking out these blogs http://afoodiestaysfit.com/ and http://chrisandstaceysargent.blogspot.com/, I have become inspired. Even though these blogs are public, and I found them through a mutual friend, I always feel weird about blog stalking them. Oh well. Ok my peeps, that is all for now. I promise more blogging soon to come, and new pictures. Love to you all! Ambs

God Bless Him

2010-08-02T22:48:00.004-06:00

This weekend was supposed to be fun. I had tickets for a concert for us, we had a suite up in Park City to spend the weekend with my family. Oh no. I got home Friday evening after getting an adjustment and massage at the chiropractor only to notice below my eyebrow what felt like a very tender pimple. Ya know, the kind that is still under the surface of the skin but feels painful to the touch?

Well, I woke up Saturday morning to get showered and head to my other job, looked in the mirror, and discovered a hugely swollen, beat red eyelid! I'm talking so swollen that I literally could not see my eyelashes (and I have long eyelashes), and my tearduct. So I called in to work to tell them I would not be able to make it in, took some benadryll to hopefully help bring down the swelling, and fell back asleep. All day long I slept and looked. Slept and looked. Took more benadryll and Burke checked and checked on me. At 7 pm, I said screw it, and we headed to the Insta-care on our wonderful Saturday night. First Insta-care did not take my insurance, so on to the next. Doc inspected it,and sure enough- a spider bite! So so gross, and it probably looked to people that I was a victim of domestic assault because of the swelling. I could not open my eye more than a slight slit. So, get a Rx for an antibiotic, and head over to Wal-mart thinking it will be the cheapest place to fill it, and because knowing that Costco would actually be cheaper but is now closed until Monday, giving it our best shot. No. Wal-mart is now closed. (I knew there was a reason I hated that place.) So, head over to Walgreen's, where they have posted that they are now closed and the closest 24 hr pharmacy is in Draper. Get to Draper, some genius employee asks how soon we need it. Pretty damn soon buddy, or I am going to just put a patch over my eye like a pirate. Take the meds and wake up Sunday morning only to see that this thing has gotten worse before it will get better. Alas, we missed out on the suite, the concert, the Park City air, and I was bummed.

But, this guy was the best. He dealt with my crabiness and kissed me and cuddled me even when I looked like Sloth from "Goonies."

BOY DO I LOVE HIM! Thanks babe, you really are the best.

(and no, I won't post any pics from this horrid occurence- I was pms-ing so the ones he took only made me cry, and he nicely deleted them.)

The Color Code...

2010-08-02T19:24:00.003-06:00

So for my new job (http://www.imbeautifulsalon.com/), we were given the 45 question quiz to decipher our personality color. Now, I cannot remember whether or not I have ever taken this quiz, but I now know that I am a "blue". Blue traits and qualities are as follows:

motivated by altruism (doing nice things for others)

seek intimacy

crave being understood

need to be remembered and appreciated- TOTALLY ME!

directed by a strong moral code- def me as well

Burke also took the quiz (I checked out the book from the library after seeing it had an entire section on relationships). He was a white.

motivated by peace

need kindness (sweetest guy I have ever known. LOVES animals/kids)

prefer a quiet strength

like to keep a low profile (this is so true, he doesn't like to go anywhere new unless I ask)

independent

The book was so dead on with us and our personalities. Even to the point where it talked about how I like things done in a certain way and by a certain time, while he never rushes and prefers to take things as they come. It truly was one of the most enlightening and interesting things I have read in a long time. So.... you should check it out!

"Perhaps the greatest social service that can be rendered by anybody, to this country and to mankind, is to bring up a family." -George Bernard Shaw

2010-07-25T13:37:00.006-06:00

Day 1- Burke and baby Ashlyn at the stairs plant, up Big Cottonwood Canyon Zalia Camryn not only asked to wear my dad's glasses, the following day she made him do push ups for our entire group. Only Camryn could get away with that!

Her older sister Jordan singing and Jaiden in the background

I noticed Zalia had a thing about putting her arms up whenever she was getting her picture taken. It was as if she was saying "Yes, I am the star of this show! And I will make sure you know it!"

The following day at Millcreek Canyon, the Dunford clan arrived and I was reunited with my sweet, shy little Kaitlyn. She is too cute!

Camryn. The cutest thing she said was "I can remember Berg (Burke's) name because it's like Iceberg, and it's quite easy to remember. " LOVED that!

Cousin Love

Bobby (Brandi's bf), Bran, baby Ash

McCune

Tammi, Stacy, Gma Barbara, Renae, Paula, Sharron

Kaitlyn loves her Brandi!

My arm began to get tired, and baby was sleepy, so Burke stepped up to the plate and she fell asleep on his shoulder.

Karina, Paul and Jordy

My favorite! I saw Kaitlyn go back to get marshmallow after marshmallow at least 10 times. But who could say no to her sweet face? Good thing I'm not a parent- I would be such a sucker!

recently snapped pics...

2010-07-21T19:44:00.005-06:00

we went hiking to silver lake, and Burke fed a squirrel

and looked very cute wearing his hydration pack.

He even packed our lunches.

Our little friend Mason and his mom Katie came over for a swim.

Mason loves Burkey and prefers to watch cartoon like this:

I love our time together. He makes my heart happy.

Fourth of July

Cheers to a summer full of great days...

2010-06-21T20:34:00.002-06:00

Days like this one make me realize how lucky I am to have him.

Sunday was truly just a great day, and I'm looking forward to many more.

Hope you're all having the time of your lives this summer!

In a New York minute

2010-05-16T10:34:00.003-06:00

The trip is over. Far too many photos to upload. Amazing food. Amazing. A LOT of walking! A multitude of sites to explore. Not enough time to do it all. Hopefully, someday, we will visit you again, NY.

Irish Blessing

2010-03-16T21:49:00.002-06:00

MAY YOU ALWAYS BE BLESSED WITH WALLS FOR THE WIND.

A ROOF FOR THE RAIN.

A WARM CUP OF TEA BY THE FIRE.

LAUGHTER TO CHEER YOU.

THOSE TO LOVE NEAR YOU.

AND ALL THAT YOUR HEART MIGHT DESIRE.

The warmth of the sun...

2010-03-16T17:25:00.005-06:00

has made me more than excited that spring is so near us. Here, a few things I can't wait for-

Burke playing softball. Granted, it will be on a actual team and not with his nephew in the front yard, but either way-he is just too cute for words.

A hot glue gun to hone some crafting skills and see what I can make instead of spending money on things I may or may not be able to easily duplicate. Shout out your fun (and easy please) ideas for me.

I love shoes. I am a girl. I want some wedges. These beauties are adorable and I will be hunting amazon.com religiously until I find a decent deal. I HEART NEW YORK! May 1-6. So beyond excited, and it will be something I will never forget!

Have any of you ever tried the ecotools brushes? They are so soft, amazing and the best part is they are completely eco friendly! Helpful hint: sign up for Ulta's membership (it's free), and they will send you coupons galore!

Saturday night a few of us tried this new downtown 24 hr cafe and let me tell you, it was so delish! Try it next time you need a southern food fix, a yummy meal after pulling a all nighter, or just like to try new places. Did I mention the prices are beyond reasonable? SCORE!

http://bayleaf-cafe.com/

I had no idea....

2010-03-04T22:00:00.003-07:00

how nice it is to have a fully stocked fridge, without half of it going bad due to the fact that I can't eat it all before the expiration date.

or, to not have a foot board on the bed. MUCH easier to make!

True joy may come from the fact that this lovely 47" found it's way to me. Real Housewives, Project Runway, Gossip Girl- they will all look much more crisp (and hopefully a little more humanly flawed) to me in HD.

Sometimes becoming an adult and making a life change creeps up on you faster than you could have even anticipated.

Good luck to my love.

I apologize in advance for vacuuming the bathroom floor and lint rolling my sheets every morning.

If you....

2010-02-13T20:13:00.004-07:00

are lucky in love too, make sure you tell that person EVERY day.

And, if you aren't so lucky as of yet, don't worry- being single is the most fun anyone can have until they meet the one who makes them un-single!

Cheers to you, and however you choose to spend your day!

If I had to steal one....

2010-02-05T22:42:00.002-07:00

I would take either of these guys in a heartbeat!

My friends have the cutest kids-

lucky

them!

filling my heart with happiness @ this moment....

2010-01-28T14:50:00.007-07:00

any and all Ingrid Michaelson tunes. She performed one of the best concerts I've seen in my life.

vintage pics of our family. this one is defintely a keeper.

this boy. reasons known to anyone who has witnessed my smile in the last 2.5 months. and finally, I cannot wait to take that car ride, plane ride, ferry ride, subway ride, all the way to NYC with you guys! You make me happy! If this is my face sitting next to you at dinner, can you imagine the grin I will wear for an entire week of dinners???? LOVE YOU!!!

4's

2010-01-09T11:54:00.004-07:00

4 tv shows I love to watch: -real housewives of the orange county -how i met your mother -brothers and sisters - modern family

4 things I am passionate about: -trying to live green - books -movies -good food

4 words or phrases I often use: -"sure pal" (said in extremely sarcastic tone) -"I love you" -"Bella/Bentley stop...." -"I should go to the gym today"

4 things I have learned from the past: -Jaegar and champagne on an empty stomach=having a awful New Year's 2007 - there is always a reason -no one is perfect -being an adult is harder AND more fun than anyone tells you

4 places I would love to go: -Spain -Greece -Costca Rica -Boston(hopefully soon)

4 things that happened yesterday: -Went to dinner with Stephanie and Burke -Got a much needed 9.5 hours of sleep and cuddling -finally bought a newer, better stainless steel garbage can -asked my manager if he had gotten a spray tan. (Indeed he did)

4 things I look forward to: -NYC with 3 of my most favorite people in the world -good homemade meals from the parentals -the fact that my fridge is so stocked up I can finally pack a decent lunch for a while -wearing my new Forever 21 holiday dress tonight! I freakin love that place! Such a steal

4 things I (try to) love about winter: -movies on the couch with hot chocolate when the snow falls -bundling up in sweats and hoodies for no other reason than it is really cold -holiday season -soup. I love soup, especially in a bread bowl.

4 things on my wishlist: -paying off credit card -getting together with Jamie and other friends -seeing "Youth In Revolt" or "Up in the Air" -health and happiness for the people I love

4 people I tag: -Aimee Lolo -Heidi Herway -Kirsten Dorius -Dawn Ogg

Keeping up with the Kardashians

2010-01-07T22:59:00.002-07:00

I am addicted to this show. Khloe makes me literally laugh out loud (alone in my condo.) Tonight, however my sweet mother made me giggle when she called me at exactly 10:00 pm.

mama: "amber, is something wrong with the kardashian mom? I've been glued to it since you had the channel on when you left"

me: "no, why? and why are you calling me about this right now?" (she's usually in bed by 9, so i seriously thought there was a real emergency)

mama: "because on the new preview they show kim with a sad face and something about how they don't think she is gonna make it"

me: "haha. yeah she finds a homeless dog and the dog is sick. Kris Jenner is fine."

mama: (sounding quite relieved) "oh a dog? ok I just thought maybe it was the mom. I mean a dog is horrible too though"

My dad is named after a cowboy.....

2010-01-07T21:11:00.004-07:00

I think it's fitting. Don't you?

(Stacy McCune- center cowboy)

Adios 2009, gracias for the following...

2009-12-27T20:44:00.003-07:00

my little bamers. always a true friend. really more like a sister.

sushi nights with emily. always calling my name. mmmmmm.....

500 days of summer/ the hangover.

blissful days spent alone at my pool, with a book and my ipod.

a early summer road trip complete with beatles "love", diet coke, st. george vintage shops and Kirsten D.

my mom and dad's new whirlpool washer and dryer.

michael j fox's book "adventures of an incurable optomist." love him, love family ties, forever my 80's icon crush.

for 26th birthdays spent with friends in SoCal, and @ the bayou. having your presence there was my present.

for this smiling, crafty, fun loving, giggly gal of mine- miss stephanie, I love you so.

even for the sad moments I lived through this year, and had to watch others move on from. Losing someone you love leaves you incomplete in a way you can never expect or fully recover from.

thankfully, I believe one of these people brought me him. I am delightfully in love.

San Diego w/ Shalee, Eric, Hogan

2009-10-19T11:52:00.003-06:00

I don't remember when I wrote it, but I like it

2009-09-02T12:05:00.000-06:00

Appreciating what I have… Sometimes, even the simplest things I should be grateful for, I overlook too often. Here are a few I pondered tonight. - I wish I had more patience. Instead of being annoyed by slow drivers, slow walkers, slow hours in the day, I wish I took more time. I shouldn’t always be in such a hurry. I could miss out on a lot along the way. - I wish I spent more time at home. I love living on my own, maybe to a fault. I like my own space, the quiet, the calm- just me. I constantly need to remind myself that I need to eventually get used to the idea of sharing a space with someone again. I usually go home 1-2 times per week, but really how much of that time is spent doing valuable things with my family. - I wish I wasn’t so hard on myself. Although in the deepest part of my soul I know that I have my own path and a different plan to follow, sometimes it is hard to not feel lonely when you feel like so many around you have already begun the rest of their lives. Here I am at 25, unmarried, no children, no degree (yet), and no crystal ball to look into to know when all of that stuff is coming. Life would be so much more relaxed if I could just see that. - At the same time I am grateful that this path I’m on hasn’t led me to being a teenage mother, divorced or in a job I hate. Things could always change, but I’m thankful I got to experience my adolescence the way it was intended for me. - I was once told by a psychic that I already have everything I need at this point. I don’t know how much I really believe in psychics, but when I really considered everything, what she said was true. I am surviving. I’m not homeless, hungry or without a car or clothes. I have the necessities of life, and that is what counts. - When I sit and dwell on things that I wish I could change about my appearance, I try to always take a step back. Maybe I don’t always have the perfect hair, maybe I am self conscious about my nose and chin (thanks to menacing young boys in school), but at least I have my health. My body has never been in any real harm. I can walk, I can run, I have both arms, I am never looked or gawked at for being different. The body is truly a blessing I often take for granted. - I should open my heart a little more. Sarcasm and independence can only last or be a companion to me for so long.

a writer who is too lazy to write will say it in pics

2009-08-09T13:04:00.008-06:00

Working the Midvale Harvest Days parade. Utterly useless day if you ask me.

Gallivan Center on Thursday nights.

Starring Little A and Kiki and our shades.

I miss my sweet little Kato Potato already. To send her safely to Boston we rocked out to "Scripted Apology." Thanks for the memories Kathryn Mayeda. They include the following:

1) giving me nasty glares before you knew me

2)Being my date twice to the Christmas party @ work. You were the prettiest I ever had

3)tutoring me in math, and both of us vowing we would never do that again. Some friendships just weren't build to withstand a quadratic eqation.

4)Going to Seattle with you. I will always remember that trip and you wiping your expensive sneaks off everytime we crossed the street.

(Seattle, WA May 2008)

I loved the faces of Kato and Brett in these pics.

Yellow was the color of the night. Those heavy rock goth types really dig a lady in it.

Josie, me, Dawn

It was so great having Dawn and her cute family here for a while.

It makes me really miss all the family cruises and vacations we all used to take.

I took a lot of flak for this headband-I wore it more than once so obviously you can tell those opinions really hit me hard. Jack's Mannequin. It was totally worth the $75 tix to see this band so close. Hats were a neccessity for that extra 2 weeks I went w/o a color or cut. We took a much needed road trip. Complete with lots of diet coke, pool time, and excess spending.

They Call It Love, Love, Love

2009-07-02T16:45:00.002-06:00

My favorite extended family members were recently in town for a visit. It was so wonderful to have time to spend together. I LOVE LOVE LOVE them so much! And from birth, my "Uncle Ted" has been more like a second dad than a favorite uncle. We miss you guys already! Love, The McCune clan xoxo

nice seats

2009-05-17T14:55:00.003-06:00

Thanks to my dear old dad, I got 4 tickets to the SL Bees game Friday night. I love a good baseball game in the summer. I get the usual hot dog, chips, drink and to finish- dippin' dots! It was a good time, and I brought my friend Aimee and her family. Samson, the little one, is my future hubby. We sat third row from 1st base, so it was pretty awesome!

"The Format"...

2009-05-17T14:46:00.004-06:00

is a band who has a song I love called "On Your Porch", and guess what? After 2 dreadful summers of not having a completed porch, mine is finally done! I asked Santa for my deck to be tiled this summer. I know technically I don't really have a porch, but still, now that it's complete I feel like I have my own little oasis out there! I am so excited to set up my George Foreman outdoor grill, and stretch my legs out with an iced tea. (I'm trying to rid myself of the diet coke habit). I know the pics are a little dark, but it's a new camera and I still haven't figured out all the features. Hey, give a girl a break!

Jamie Michelle Johns

2009-05-17T14:28:00.006-06:00

What to say about my little Bamers?

We have been friends since 7th grade gym class, when I accidentally grabbed her forrest green jansport backpack thinking it was mine.

We share the same middle name even.

We have dated best friends (ugh) , roommates (hey Dave!), and have been there for each others dating distasters and horror stories!

She is one of my bffs, and a truly wonderful human being. I cannot imagine how much fun I would have missed, had she and I never met.

I especially love her terms of endearment to me when I try to pay for her birthday dinner or movie ticket "Shut up idiot! You are retarded!" Aww- So sweet! :)

Jame, I'm so glad our friendship survived 2 different high school, different colleges, different cities, and even a whole different country. You truly are the greatest friend! I love you to pieces!

HAPPY 25TH BIRTHDAY IDIOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The epitome of a good mama bear

2009-05-08T20:31:00.005-06:00

What to say about a mama bear who has done so much?

A mom who held me inside her belly for an extended 10 months.

A mom that even after her long shifts at Pony Express, would pick me up from preschool and take me to a movie matinee of "Smurfs."

A mother who made sure I always got to lay down with my pink cuddly, and later kept in safely bundled in a chest to show my kids someday.

My mom never ceases to amaze me. She has been given many, many challenges in her 49 years. She has lost many people she loved, and she has been scared when life took a turn and she was diagnosed with Lupus. She never complains, she never asks "why me", never cries about things beyond her control. She handles her every situation with a smile and positive additude, always trying to find the best in things.

She is my best friend, and I hope one day I can grow up to be just like her.

She is the epitome of generosity and unconditional love.

Loving it!

2009-04-26T12:11:00.000-06:00

I love all these things right now!

These headbands that I bought last year at the farmer's market and never wore, are now in current roatation. I like them better with my shorter hair, and I can wear them all day without getting a headache (BONUS)

any trendy thing I could ever need- on a budget. not sure if I have ever seen a price tag over $40

red velvet mini bundt cakes. the. best. thing. ever. these little bags have helped me save $ and am actually now able to eat my produce before it goes bad too quickly for me to get to it. they are livesavers! and finally, I cannot wait for the perfect 80 degree weather. I will take a book, blanket, my ipod and some snacks to sugarhouse park and just chill!

... and she had a lovely weekend

2009-04-26T11:02:00.001-06:00

Last summer and Thursday nightSome pretty scenery on our hike through Neff's Canyon This self photography crap kinda sucks. I hate stretching out my arm and seeing it in every shot. However, isn't Kirsten a cutie? I feel for these poor guys. The new 90210 has the anorexic girls. It wouldn't be so tough sitting through a photo shoot with those little twiglets! KIDDING We "had it our way" at 2 am with a BK kids meal

The bathroom in Harry O's was apparently where it was at that night.

As awful as the sicko guys at that club were, it is always fun to hang out with one of your longtime buds! Ok , it's been a while since I blogged. Here's the rundown on my sweet 4 day weekend.

Thursday evening- Emily and I went on our usual weekly date of sushi. We tried a new place called Ichiban. I LOVED it! I'm not sure, but it looks like they have restored an old church and converted into this restaurant. There was beautiful stained glass windows, high arched ceiling, and a colorful fish tank all for our viewing pleasure. It was really good sushi too. We tried the Lotus, Vegas, and Dynamo. All delicious. Also, we decided that since on Tues nights they have 1/2 price sushi, we are adjoining that with $5 movie night at Jordan Commons. I am learning to budget better people, this recession is forcing me!

Friday- got a bid on labor for tiling my deck. My mom found this guy in the newspaper. I was eerily suspicious of having a stranger in my house after the Craiglist killer! My mom felt guilty after I told her that she should be worried and perhaps search my condo if she hasn't heard back from me within a few days. Luckily for sweet mama, the guy was totally normal (i think?), and I rewarded her with a $1 movie of " He's Just Not That Into You." Granted, I hadn't been to the dollar movies in a long time, but the sound qualilty is worth less than my dollar. They got new comfy seats though. Upgrade.

Later, Kirsten and I took a hike through Neff's Canyon. I knew the weather was going to get bad later in the weekend, so I wanted to hurry up and go! As much as I despise our long winters, it is so great being able to drive 10 minutes and go for a scenic hike. After we worked up our hunger, we devoured Cafe Rio, complete with the best dolce de leche cake! Mmmmm....

Saturday- what a bum I was that day. I relaxed and vegged out on the couch. Caught up on some reading of "Wicked", and also found some very vintage episodes of 90210 that I could not pass up. So old, we are talking Brenda didn't even know Dylan existed yet. Oh, and Brandon's hometown girlfriend slept with him- in his parents house!!!

Later, Emily called and we went out to Park City to Harry O's. Luckily, my awesome friend Janet got us in the VIP line for free. Good thing, because the whole bar scene just reminded me that it's really not my thing. The guys were gross, the drinks expensive, and my shoes killed me after standing for a few hours. Oh well, it was still fun to laugh about.

Sunday- well this morning I got up and did the usual. Checked my facebook, charged my cell phone, called my mom, and sat down to blog. I plan on going to the gym and getting in a sun session. Tomorrow I plan to get an oil change.

Thanks for being so bored you actually read this. :)

Sick of being sick

2009-04-04T19:32:00.000-06:00

I have come down with the cold. I went home early Tuesday and Wednesday and took vacation pay for the rest of the week. I have literally not been able to do a thing. I cough and cough, can't ever breathe out of both nostrils, and yet my nose runs. It has given me a headache. The only things I have done are pay bills online, read mags, do laundry and grocery shop. I am not kidding! The only thing I left the house for were those, and even that was a chore. I literally sleep my days away. This is awful. I guess the good thing is that the weather isn't warm yet, so I don't feel like I am missing out on much. Maybe I will start my new book about Jon and Kate and their "Multiple Blessings" Probably not-I feel a sneeze, cough and a nap coming on.

Happy Birthday Kirsten Dorius!

2009-03-30T21:11:00.003-06:00

Top Ten Reasons I Love Kirsten!

#10- She has not shunned me for my love of chocolate covered gummy bears like so many other have, and in fact even helped me to located them when i was in DIRE need one night.

#9- She is so excited to see Jack's Mannequin with me that we are paying an obsene ticket price to the concert, considering the main reason we are going is the opening band.

#8-We both love accessories. Bright shoes, hippie headbands, and our favorite sanuk sandals!

#7- We also share a fondness for the spray tan, Urban Outfitters, and a mutual crush on Paul Rudd.

#6- Our go to dessert dish- the cupcake! Yum

#5-She danced in the rain at Bob Dylan

#4- She is always down for a road trip. Anytime, anywhere, any place. Jackson Hole, see ya soon!

#3- She writes a good blog. Highly entertaining and truthfully, it's quite smart.

#2- We almost died together in a pilates class. No really, we almost died.

#1- She is so hot, she can wear a moustache and still pull of looking like Sophia Bush! HAPPY BIRTHDAY KIRSTEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

Swoon...

2009-03-19T22:13:00.001-06:00

Tomorrow's Friday- you know what that means.

Taylor Kitsch is dreamy.

Peace.

DOD (dear old dad)

2009-03-18T22:13:00.001-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DADDY-O!

Thank you for being a terrific father and husband, and someone who taught me the love of a good Jimmy Buffett song! You have always let us know we matter in this world!

Here are a few favorite memories of mine:

"Amber, you are gonna learn how to ski and you WILL like it!"

Taking us on hike through the fiery furnace and then having to experience the cold stares of a 11 year old after my legs fell between two bolders, and I silently cursed you out.

Not so silently cursing you out on the Space Mountain.

Teaching me how to rightfully grip a golf club. The few times I have used that while mini golfing, it has always impressed fellow competitors.

I love you pops!

Just a few short days....

2009-03-12T20:37:00.000-06:00

It will be spring. But until the temperatures of the SLC accomidate me to my liking, I have to make due with other things to keep me nice and toasty. I have an obsession. His name is Taylor Kitsch and he is on "FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS". Oh is he dreamy. I know nothing about the comic book character Wolverine, but just because he is going to be in that movie, you can be sure I will pay my $7.50 to see it. Every single FNL episode is actually awesome, and I love all characters. But the writing is amazing! Seriously, I do not remember a show I have liked this much since "Arrested Development" (which by the way, George Michael Bluth finally came to his senses and will now be in the movie version! HOORAY!) Anyway, if anyone is looking for something good to watch, I highly recommend this show. You can get all the episode online at nbc.com or you can borrow them from me.

P.S- my future husband is the one kneeling down in front!

"a heart can be broken, but it still keeps beating just the same"- fried green tomatoes

2009-03-10T20:08:00.001-06:00

Comfort- something or somebody that provides relief from pain or anxiety. Someone very close to me is gone. It’s the harshest reality in the world when you hear that someone you cherish and love is so ill that there is no chance of improvement. I feel guilty for all the times I thought to call her, and instead became preoccupied with something else. I wonder if she passed away thinking I didn’t care about her. And that’s the worst part of it all. I wanted to try to remember all the things she taught me, but the truth is, I would never remember everything. Ginny was such a presence in my life. Since birth, she loved me like her own child, and she never faltered to leave me with some of her southern wisdom. She was always willing to do whatever she could to make me happy. She would spoil me rotten, but never let me forget that I needed to be grateful for everything in my life. I only wish I could have written down every single piece of advice or clever thought she had. Sometimes, life is not fair. I know this is one of those times. Although I am definitely not a religious person, I am a spiritual person and I honestly do feel some sense of comfort knowing that God has given me one more heavenly creature to look out for me. I will never be able to meet another individual as inspiring as my aunt Ginny. She was one of a kind. Anyone who ever came into contact with her knows this, and if you weren’t lucky enough to be one of those people, well at least now you know that Ginny existed. She was wonderful, she was kind, she was noble and strong and she will be forever missed.

melts my cold heart~

2009-02-16T21:12:00.001-07:00

Brett, my dear friend, (and ever the gentleman), dropped these GORGEOUS yellow flowers off for me, along with huge chocolate covered strawberries. What a bright, beautiful arrangement that greets me as I walk into the door everyday!

My sweet/naughty little Samson gave me a valentine! He is the funniest and most precious little thing ever, and I loved it!

What is this holiday really about?

2009-02-12T22:37:00.000-07:00

For me, it was about getting to wear my cute little apron and baking up some sweet treats for my fellow employees and my best buds! Who cares if you're single when baking an awesome treat like this means getting to use your new cupcake carrier (a true blessing- the icing never smears off! It's so handy!). I wanted to make my favorite red velvet ones, but instead opted for the cherry chip cake with pink vanilla fosting and sprinkles!

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

p.s- Dad, I still expect my single rose that you get your daughters every year. Love you!

absolute nap heaven!!!!

2009-02-12T22:30:00.001-07:00

Ok, I am a poor college student but I am so thankful to have a job at Costco this week.

This was a display couch that I was considering buying at the original cost of $500. When we sold out and only had this display one left, my friend Aimee spotted it for me and got me to convince asking my warehouse manager if I could get it for a discount because some child had written all over it with pen. He agreed to sell it to me for a steal! $300! It is microfiber and the pen came out with just a rag and some cleaning spray! After I found some muscular men to lug it up to my third floor condo, I settled down for a nap. And let me just say it was absolute perfection!

Brandi Nicole - February 1,1990

2009-02-01T17:35:00.000-07:00

To my little sister,

Remember when you were little and I used to pinch the little bit of baby fat on your arm?

Remember when you used to cry for me at the window as I walked to the school bus?

Remember when we would steal each others clothes and makeup?

Remember that I did your makeup for your first high school dance?

Remember when you called nail polish- paul nailish?

Thanks for the memories! I love being your Sissy!

Obsess much?

2009-02-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have mentioned before that I have a slight obsession with vaccuming my bathroom floor every morning before I leave. This is a illness for me. I cannot stand having stray hairs anywhere. My sheets, shirts and jackets, and especially the floor all have to be lint rolled or sucked up! After going through some photos, I discovered this gem. I am probably 4 years old, and am pretending to vaccuum as my mother watches on so lovingly. The best part is, you can tell my hair had been in those pink sponge curlers and I have a white puffy dress on. I loved the look of a 1950's housewife even then.

{something to ponder}

2009-01-26T14:02:00.001-07:00

Ok, I don't really want to say that these are my new years resolutions, because well it"s now the last week of January. So instead, these will be considered my new goals just to better myself for no particular reason. Maybe if they are blogged, it will be more of a constant reminder for me to do them! #1)- Start prepping for my early mornings! Let me be honest, I am a tardy girl. Sometimes it's 5 min, sometimes 15, but rarely am I ever early. So I am going to try and set out my clothes, vitamins, and pack my lunches all the night before. #2)- Spend more time with the fam. I really do love my family very much, so I need to do more than just the weekly laundry ritual with them. I miss my mommy-daughter dates #3)- Take more pics. Mostly because I do so many fun things, and always carry my camera but rarely take it out of my purse #4)- Write more! That one is plain and simple, but considering I am going to major in journalism, I find in my free time I never write for pleasure. Maybe this blog will be helpful to that. #5)- go to the gym at least 3 times a week. I figure three is good, three is half. I like my sleep and dvr too much to promise much more. And yes, I did go this morning!

cousins-in-law sometimes make the best friends

2009-01-22T17:57:00.000-07:00

Here's to my west coast Aimee!

Thanks for letting us stay with you, I am so glad you are my family!

Pack is going to kill me for this......

2008-12-23T18:05:00.002-07:00

But oh well, I don't think he will see this unless i show him, which most likely I will.

For his bday, we went to Wendover. He is a gambling fool, and actually he won me $50 in blackjack just by telling me exactly what to do. I quit while I was ahead the $50. Yeah, I know, Im crazy like that.

Anyway, we spent the night up there and by the time the boys finally got back from winning and losing all their money and decided to retire to the room, I had been asleep for hours. We shoved 7 people into 2 beds, and when Pack's arm underneath me became uncomfortable, I moved it. Here is the picture of Pack after he turned over and decided to cuddle Marcy, the girl on the other side of him, and his friend Austin's gf.

And yes, that is Austin the boyfriend on the right, I am out of bed laughing hysterically and taking the picture!

2008-12-23T17:56:00.000-07:00

Look at Aimee. Could she be more excited to be in santa attire?

I think not

Pack's work Christmas party @ the Grand America

oh yeah, i cut my hair a while ago...

and p.s- i got my way cute skirt at the one and only fabulous

TARGET!

Kato, my potatohead, and Seattle tourguide

Aimee and I at our company Christmas party

Don't worry... I haven't left

2008-12-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hello, hello! Ok so since Aimee has been telling me that it has been much to long since I have posted anything, I am here to update "the woman to blame". Let's see, what has been happening- oh yes on November 19, 2008 I totalled my Nissan Sentra that I purchased my senior year of high school, brand new. It had been paid off only since June 2007, so I was quite distraught when the insurance company called to inform me (the day before Thanksgiving, mind you) that my car was DUNZO!!!! I had a rental for about a week, then I got the ultimate reward of driving the 1990 Toyota 4Runner my family bought when I was in FIRST GRADE! Oh yes, Granny Barbara has been using it about the last 5 years and it still runs with only 173k miles. WOW did it feel great being in that thing. All kidding aside though, I had never been in a wreck, so i was just grateful to have something to drive at all. I did finally get my new car on Thurs Dec. 11th. It is a 2007 Mazda 6 and I am very happy with it! I apologize to everyone for being such a heinous beeyotch the last month! I love you all, especially my papa who always remembers to help me with everything because even though I am 25, I am still his Amber Michelle. (He picked my middle name) Anyway, I will post a pic of the new car soon, but it is too dark right now here. I want to wish everyone the HAPPIEST OF HOLIDAYS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

yearbook yourself (and die laughing)

2008-11-18T23:40:00.000-07:00

2008-11-18T22:53:00.000-07:00

My 6 Random Things.... i was tagged by Aimee 1. I am a completely OCD with having a clean bathroom floor. I think it is so disgusting to have strands of hair on the bathroom floor, so I admit that I vaccuum my bathroom every single morning after doing my hair. The worst part is, I will risk being late to ensure that I have hairless tile. 2. I don't get crushes on Brad Pitt or Matthew Shirtless. I crush on guys with a sense of humor. Zach Braff, Michael Cera, and Paul Rudd (my numero uno) 3. I truly believe that Jimmy Buffett lives what he writes. My dad always told me he listened to him because he sings about having fun, getting drunk and being on a boat. I am a parrothead! 4. I am the only one in my family who cried when we moved from our old house in Sandy. Lived there from 1-18. Memories....like the corners of my mind! 5. I truly think I would give up having a car before giving up good meals like sushi, or thai or even just sweet potato fries from Arctic Circle. 6. I look at people.com every morning before work.

{random pics of what i did this year}

2008-11-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

Remember Jordan Kaufman, everyone? Ahhh... my first little love

Said goodbye to Lacee as she left for the Big Apple (without her I wouldn't have found my condo), then welcomed her when she came to visit!

Seriously looked like the worst ninja ever!

I left this pic tiny for a reason. I was a prom queen last year for Halloween in Arizona. It was all they had left that was my size and it was so awful walking around like that! JUST NOT ME!!

Emily and I driving and goofing on July 4th doing a little hike in St. George Emily, Joshua Radin, me, Kelsey

Met him after his concert- so nice! Listen to his stuff- trust me

i just think the pic speaks volumes of why we have fun at work Emily and I having our usual "date" of sushi and a movie This is Amy, me and Kelsey @ Jack Johnson

friends since middle school

Rockin the Vote!

2008-11-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

So this year is the first time I registered to vote. I don't consider myself a very political person, but it was so exciting to put my ballot in. I feel so blessed to be alive in this country at the time we are seeing our first African-American president elected into office. No matter if you consider yourself red or blue, liberal or conservative, one thing is very clear to me after last night- I AM PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN! We should all be so thankful to live in a country where we have a choice, and we use our right to be heard, and appreciate all the freedom this wonderful country!

sisters

2008-11-03T15:34:00.002-07:00

Aimee is really not my sis. I do love her much, but she has 3 wonderful sisters of her own. (From what little I know of them.) In particular, her littlest sister Starlyn. She is the one who is lucky enough to be able to call Aimee a sister, and Sam and Zach her nephews. So just to clarify, I have a lovely 18 year old sis named Brandi that I adore. Aimee is just the fun icing on my work cake.

Halloween '08/ My 25th Birthday

2008-11-01T13:30:00.000-06:00

So at work Aimee and I dressed up for Halloween. I think we had more fun taking pics of ourselves than anything else. She is so much fun to be around, and even though we pick on each other and argue (jokingly) every day, I love her dearly and truly think of her as the older sis I never had! Love ya Aims!

And later that night, I changed out of my "ninja wear" and drove to Herriman to eat chili with Aimee, Chris, Zach and Sam. I met up with the boys as they were trick-or-treating around the neighborhood, and dressed as the Hulk and Iron Man.

And on October 25, 1983 I was born. So to celebrate my quarter century of living, my friends took me out to dinner and drinks while we listened to the Spazmatics, my fave 80's cover band.

I am so happy to have such fun and loving friends. They really are the coolest kids ever, and they are all mine!

What the hell am i doing?

2008-10-30T21:20:00.000-06:00

It's kinda weird to not have a blog, but look at everyone elses. So in order to avoid having those awkward feelings, I am going to give this a shot. Also, a lot of people ask "what does a single, 25 year old, non-LDS girl living in Utah have going on in her life?" Hmmmm....stay tuned!