Holiday Parties

December 12 was my work Christmas luncheon. I absolutely love my job and the people that I work with. I feel very blessed when I think back about how everything seemed to fall together and put me there. Anyways... this year the luncheon was held at Ruth's Chris Steak House.

Basically the best, most expensive dinner you'll ever have. (Or, in my case, lunch). It was a delicious lunch and if you are looking for a place to celebrate an important event (anniversary, Valentines), I highly recommend it. Much to Brad's dismay, my office doesn't invite spouses to the lunch. Sorry Brad!

On December 13, Brad and I drove into downtown San Francisco for his work Christmas party. It was held at Fort Mason, which is a former military base that has been converted into a multicultural center. It is a beautiful location, sitting right on the San Francisco bay with a beautiful view of the city, the bay, and the Golden Gate Bridge. It was a fun night, and I got to meet a lot of the people that Brad works with.


Since this was the first time we had actually driven into the city (we usually take BART), we decided to drive past Union Square on our way home. With our trusty GPS in hand (early Christmas gift- thanks Mom and Dad!) we were confident we could find it without turning onto a one way street or a bad part of town. And we were successful! The Christmas tree and decorations were beautiful! Unfortunately, we weren't quick enough with the camera to snag a picture.

Thanksgiving Week

The past week was quite the whirlwind. It began last Thursday night when Brad and I drove to Utah to attend the funeral of two close family members. Although the reason for our trip was sad and tragic, we were grateful for the opportunity it gave us to spend time with family and reflect on the blessings of eternal families. Brad was able to see cousins that he hadn't seen since before his mission (over 5 years) and I was able to meet them for the first time. We will be heading back to Utah in just a little over 3 weeks to spend Christmas with the Hardcastle's and we can hardly wait.

Last Monday we hopped back into the car and began the trip back to SF. We kept tabs on my family (the Urry's) because as we were traveling I-80 to get back home, they were traveling I-5 to meet us for Thanksgiving week. Brad and I beat them home by a couple hours and were able to get the house ready for when they arrived. We started off the visit with a trip into the city to visit Alcatraz, Pier 39, the cable cars, etc. We were nervous that the weather wasn't going to cooperate, but it turned out to be a perfect day. It was overcast, but not windy or rainy. We really got lucky! Here are some pics from Alcatraz:





Wednesday Brad and I went back to work for the first day in about a week. We were very grateful to our bosses that gave us time off with such short notice to allow us to go to Utah. While we were working my family explored the Jelly Belly Factory in Fairfield. From what we heard, they highly recommend it.

Thanksgiving was a long day! My mom and spent most of it in the kitchen, while the boys spent it watching football and going to the movies. Brad invited a friend from the ward, Jim, to spend Thanksgiving with us. I was a little nervous about how we would all fit, but it turned out fine. We had a yummy Thanksgiving and no one complained about the tight space at the table!





Friday, we went out to explore some more! We drove to the Golden Gate Bridge and then went up into Mill Valley to the John Muir Redwoods. It was beautiful! Brad was sick, so he couldn't join us, but we got a year pass to the Redwoods so we'll be back again!











(Remember Ross's broken foot? He is in a walking cast for it, hence the wheelchair)

We finished up the trip with: recording messages on tape for Bryant (Elder Urry), "Dan in Real Life", "Elf", homemade kettle corn (thanks mom!), and some sweet foot massages from Taryn. What a trip!


After we saw my family off yesterday morning, instead of following our "strict orders" to rest (sorry Dad!) we decided to decorate the house for Christmas. Priorities, right?




It has been a busy busy week, but we've loved every minute of it. We were reminded of just how important family is and are grateful for the unique chance we got to see both of them so close together. Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday too.

What a week!

In the past 8 days I have:

1. Driven to and and from Utah (10 hours each way)
2. Hosted my family here in SF for Thanksgiving week
3. Cooked Thanksgiving dinner for 9 people
4. Visited Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the John Muir Redwoods
5. Lived with 8 people in a 2 bedroom townhouse
6. Worked 1 day and gotten paid for 6 :)
7. Spent time with both the Hardcastle and Urry families and been reminded how important family truly is.

It has been a tiring, busy, fun-filled week. More details and pictures to come.

And now for the Hardcastle's

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Look at those Urry kids ;)

I thought this was too cute to pass up. Nice moves Ross!!
Better watch out Spencer... Hardcastle elves are next!!

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Picture fun

I envy people with photography skills. I have no talent when it comes to taking photos, I can never "capture the moment" or get the right angle, etc. And don't even try to explain Photoshop to me- it's a lost cause. However, there is hope for me! I just discovered this fun website that helps edit your photos. It's really simple and easy. The site is picnik.com

I decided to play around with one of our wedding pictures from our open house in Utah. It was a beautiful snowy night and I love how this picture turned out! I think I might have to play around with a few more...

We voted!

Have you?

Proposition 8 and Zions Camp

As you can see to the right, the time is running out to vote. Lauren and I spent our Saturday sticking door hangers on voter's doors and assembling "Yes on Prop 8" signs. It has been amazing to see how much time and effort the church has put into this initiative. As silly as it sounds, I can't help but think of Zions Camp. Many were called to do something that they didn't quite understand. In the end, those who listened to the prophet and obeyed his every word were blessed.

Last night at our Stake Conference, our Stake President shared some experiences that he has had with the Brethren in helping with the Prop 8 initiative. On a conference call, Elder Ballard told all of California's Stake Presidents that every time Elder Monson sees Elder Ballard he asks him, "Russell, are we going to win in California?"

In a few days we will know the outcome, but even if Proposition 8 doesn't pass the opportunity to serve and fight for something so important has already brought our little family countless blessings. Again, both Lauren and I have thought about the outcome of Zion's Camp. Maybe proposition 8 doesn't pass and we went through all this to refine us and makes us better. But what comforts us most is the knowledge that Christ is at the head of this church. Come what may, we will be blessed for following the prophet of the Lord.

Halloween Trunk or Treat

Last night was our ward Halloween Trunk or Treat... and it was really fun! Brad and I were in charge of a couple of games and enjoyed helping all of the adorable little kids win the coveted (plastic) prizes. Later, Brad really enjoyed scaring them all as they came to stock up on some candy.

Last night was also the first time in a very long time that we actually dressed up for Halloween, and the first since we've been together. So here we are, straight out of the 1920's.



We had a great time! Unfortunately, I woke up this morning feeling pretty sick. I'm hoping it's just a 24 hour thing, because come 7:00 tomorrow morning, weekday life is calling.

Chicken Noodle Soup and an Apron

There really is no excuse for the lack of updates here... except that there isn't too much to report.

On conference weekend, Brad and I were feeling very culinarious (is that a word?) and made his mom's famous homemade chicken noodle soup and some yummy homemade rolls to go with it. It was delicious! We even made the noodles (that's the secret ;) Here is Brad right before we ate, I apologize for the bad lighting but it took us longer to make the meal than we expected and it was dark before we ate! But it was well worth the wait.




Saturday was the relief society's Super Saturday activity. There were so many cute things that I wanted to sign up for, but I just limited myself to one and it took the whole 6 hours! I made an apron! The pictures aren't the best, but I think it turned out really cute for being my first sewing project since I made my brothers some pajamas over 6 years ago. I was feeling so ambitious that I even cut out the fabric to make a second... we'll see how long it takes to actually get made!


(Again, ignore the awful lighting)


I made my own bias for the apron... it took forever but added a touch that store bought couldn't have

Other than that, we are both staying busy with work, callings, and Prop 8. In fact, as I type Brad is out delivering yard signs to people that he called earlier tonight and said they are voting Yes and that wanted a sign.

I got a haircut last week, which doesn't exactly sound like "blog-able" news, unless you know me. As Susie can attest to, I am very meticulous and protective of my hair. I was so spoiled having her so close and accessible (and free) for the past two years, and I have been so nervous to look for another hairdresser out here. Well, I found one... and she cut my hair... and I like it! It's not the same as Susie but it will do. Maybe I'll put a picture up next time.

That's it for now!

Yes on Proposition 8

Since Brad and I made our move out to California we have been actively involved with getting the word out about Proposition 8. The passing of this Proposition is critical in preserving the divine institution of marriage. For those of your who don't know about Proposition 8 and what it represents, here is a short summary:

Proposition 8 is simple and straightforward. It contains the same 14 words that were previously approved in 2000 by over 61% of California voters: “Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California.” Because four activist judges in San Francisco overturned the people’s vote, we need to pass this measure as a constitutional amendment to restore the definition of marriage as between a man and a woman.

Proposition 8 will not hurt gays. In California, the law provides for marriage-related benefits to be given to civil unions and domestic partnerships. Proposition 8 does not diminish these benefits.

Failure to pass Proposition 8 will hurt children. If gay marriage remains legal, public schools will put it on equal footing with traditional marriage. Children will likely receive “age appropriate” information about sexual relations within heterosexual and homosexual marriages.

Failure to pass Proposition 8 will hurt churches. The court’s decision will inevitably lead to conflicts with religious liberty and free speech rights. Society will become more and more hostile to traditional beliefs about marriage and family.

Please spread the word and make sure you vote on November 4th. Get involved and make a difference, because you really can make a difference!

Please go to these websites for more information:

Protectmarriage.org
Preservingmarriage.org

Free Bag!

Go to this website to enter for a free bag!

handbagplanet.com

Our too-quick Weekend

Although we have absolutely no pictures to show for our relaxing but rather ordinary weekend, here’s how it went down:

Friday after work we went to dinner at The Elephant Bar. Brad and I have never been there before, and it was really good! Brad decided on a shrimp dish (after inconspicuously scoping it out at the table next to us). I actually tried a bite, but didn’t ask for seconds.

After dinner we finally picked up an external hard drive for our computer. We have wanted to get one for about a year now… ever since our computer up and crashed last October and we lost everything. Well, 11 months later, we got one! With everything being digital now- including pictures- you lose all of your memories when your hard drive crashes. I’m so relieved to know that if the computer were to crash again, our pictures and everything else is still safe.

We started out Saturday with a trip to the gym… followed by a stop at the donut shop for Brad. He immediately negated all calories he had burnt at the gym, but didn’t seem to mind one bit.

In the afternoon we explored Lafayette, a small town about 10 minutes southwest of Walnut Creek. We drove through the city and it was so beautiful! All of the streets are so green, covered with trees and bushes, and the country-style houses are just incredible. We drove up a street called “Happy Valley” (no joke!) and ended up right next to the reservoir Brad wanted to find. He has already planned his trip out there to try the fishing.

Sunday was another great day! Brad taught his lesson and I bribed the kids to like me better by bringing Peanut Butter Kiss cookies. (I think my plan worked.) Afterwards our home teacher came over and he and Brad talked about fishing. Apparently this Saturday is “Free Fishing” day… no license or fees of any kind. According to Brad, “I’m going fishing- NO MATTER WHAT!” I’m excited that he has found another fishing buddy, because he’s been pretty lonely without Kyle and Brian since we moved. Hopefully they have a successful trip on Saturday!

That evening we had our next-door neighbors, the Andrews, over for some Korean food. They are in our ward and have an adorable little 2-year old named Emmy. We have really enjoyed getting to know them! Brad was so excited to cook the meal that he would hardly let me help! We had spicy soup, “beef and leaf”, and mandu… with kimchi, rice, and pork on the side. All in all- the meal was delicious! Good job Brad!!

Today Brad started his newest project with Protiviti. He will be working on it for at least the next two months, and guess what? It’s only 3 miles from our house, about 3 miles from my work, and he doesn’t have to work until 9 am each day… just like me! We are so excited for the 3 miles commute, instead of his usual 45 miles.

I’m already planning early morning gym excursions… and Brad is planning noontime lunch dates. It will be great!

Utah here we come...

Brad and I bought our tickets to Utah for Christmas!

December 24-January 1

We can hardly wait for our white Christmas with the Hardcastles! :)

Tough as Nails

I just wanted to give a little shout out to my younger brother Ross. He is 15 and has already been through a lot of trials in his life, the largest of which was being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease a year and a half ago. Crohn’s disease pretty much sucks. Your entire digestive tract attacks itself. It causes intense pain, cramping, weight loss, and some other symptoms that are not appropriate for such a public posting, but you get the idea.

Well, Ross is constantly in a battle with his body. I have been so impressed with how he has handled all of the changes that this disease has brought into his life: restricted diet, physical activity, etc. Last summer Brad and I were visiting my family and he pulled out his $25 dollar gift card to Jamba Juice and handed it to Brad. Jamba Juice was Ross’s favorite place to go. He had gotten the gift card for Christmas but was in the hospital only 2 weeks later beginning his battle with Crohn’s. He hadn’t even gotten to use the card, and now couldn’t because he wasn’t allowed to eat seeds or fruit. I decided this would be equivalent to me being diagnosed with a chocolate allergy and being given an entire bag of Snickers bars… and just giving them to someone else. Yeah… that wouldn't have happened. This has been Ross's entire attitude to the whole diagnosis: go with the flow and stay optimistic.

Anyways… Ross decided he wanted to run Cross Country when he entered high school. Bryant did the same thing- running for all 4 years he was at San Pasqual. (I don’t know where these brothers of mine get this desire to run… it must come from the male side of the family because it definitely skipped me!) Last year’s running season went well, but this years hasn’t gone as smoothly. Ross has been really frustrated with himself because he is missing practice a lot due to Crohn’s complications (called “flare ups”) and foot problems. He is obviously not doing well in the races either… in his own words “Even the fat kid is beating me.”

Well… long story short (okay, not so short) Ross went to get an x-ray of his foot today because its been 3 weeks and it isn’t feeling better. The x-rays came back and the verdict was…………..



.........



.........


TWO BROKEN bones in his left foot. (Not to mention an extremely tight Achilles tendon in his right foot which will require physical therapy!)




Brad says its okay that the fat kid beat you in the race.

BYU vs UCLA 59-0

Just wanted to give a shout out to our BYU Cougars... we wish we could have been there in person to witness this momentous win! Watching it on TV was almost just as good!

Max, Austin, Harvey, Dennis, Michael, and Bronco: you bring joy to our September-December. Thanks for the great performance!

Monterey, Pebble Beach, and Santa Cruz

For Labor Day weekend, and for a joint birthday getaway, Brad and I drove down Highway 1 to visit Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Pebble Beach. We left Saturday morning and took our time driving down beautiful Highway 1. We stopped at beaches and lighthouses along the way. In Santa Cruz we enjoyed the beautiful weather and boardwalk. We didn't ride any of the boardwalk rides, but just enjoyed watching other people :) We went to a Sacrament in Watsonville on Sunday morning, and enjoyed the unique dynamic of the friendly ward. Sunday afternoon was spent driving the 17-mile-drive through Pebble Beach, walking the streets of Carmel by the Sea, and visiting Cannery Row & Downtown Monterey. Obviously, we could have spent a couple days in each of these places, but the quick visit was still really nice. Everything was so amazing and I loved watching the beautiful sunsets over the water. Monday morning we went down to Sunset State Beach and just read and relaxed before we headed back to reality...

All in all, it was a fabulous weekend! Here are some pictures of the scenery:

One of the beaches on Highway 1


Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk in the back


On our late night candy run Brad discovered his long lost favorite candy of all-time: Shockers. We could have gone home at that moment and the trip would have been a success to him.


A beach on the 17-mile drive


Pretty scenery!


Still on the 17-mile drive


The Pebble Beach Golf Course... this was as close as we could get as there was a tournament that day. Darn!


The most sea lions I've ever seen! They were everywhere we looked!



It was a great weekend, that went way too fast! We are looking forward to visiting Monterey & Carmel again!

I will be getting a lot more of this now:

Sleep... glorious sleep!!!

Well... I got the call last night. After three days of teaching seminary, they decided... drumroll please... that my class was unnecessary. Yes, with only two (yes, two!) students in the class, they have decided to have them attend the earlier class that has twelve kids.

What does that mean for me? I am officially the shortest lived seminary teacher in the history of the world. A whopping three days is all I lasted. And to be honest, I have no idea how people can do much more than that!!

Brad and I spent Labor Day weekend in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Pebble Beach. A new post and pictures for that will come tonight.

As for now, you can all stop feeling sorry for me, because my "term" is over!

Heaven Help Me...

This picture can only describe how I am feeling to an extent...

You know something is up when the 1st counselor in the Stake Presidency calls to meet you at your home on a Monday night...

As of next Wednesday I will no longer stay up past 10 pm

As of next Wednesday I will be up every morning by 5:30 am

As of next Wednesday I will be an early morning Seminary teacher

Like I said before... heaven help me!

Catch Up

We have been post-less for about three weeks now... with not much excitement to show for it. Here are the updates from the Hardcastle's:

1. Lauren went down to Escondido from the 7th-14th to help her mom recovery from shoulder surgery. While there she enjoyed many late nights watching the Olympic swimmers and gymnasts, and swimming with, playing with, and chauffeuring her siblings.

2. While Lauren was gone, Brad worked a lot. He also went to an Oakland A's game with his friend Bret and was asked to chaperone his first stake dance. Woohoo! When asked if he enjoyed himself at the dance, his response was: "I spent the whole night making sure people knew I was a chaperone and not one of the kids".

3. From the 5th-19th we did some house sitting for our Bishop. They have a beautiful pool in their backyard that has a picturesque view of the valley below. We spent a few evenings swimming, watching the sunset, and pretending we might someday live in such a lovely house.

4. Lauren started her job at the Law office on Wednesday the 20. So far so good... but it's only her 4th day. She is quickly learning the ropes and processes of preparing files for signing, sending deeds to the county recorder, acting as a witness to will signings, and mastering that darn 4-line phone.

5. Yesterday was Lauren's birthday and it was a great birthday weekend. It started off a little crumby, with her waking up on Friday to pink eye. Nevertheless, with eyedrops as her constant companion, she and Brad still had a wonderful evening. They went to dinner at a fun little Italian restaurant in downtwon Walnut Creek called Tomatina. Afterwards, they walked around downtown and finished the night with some frozen yogurt from The Yogurt Park. It was delicious! Saturday, they started off the day by walking precincts for Proposition 8. Afterwards, they went to the gym (woohoo!) and then had the missionaries over for dinner. Brad surprised Lauren with beautiful flowers and an electric massager for the foot and back massages that she so adores. They finished the night off with a movie and some Olympics.

Yesterday (Sunday) Lauren enjoyed many phone calls, texts, and well wishes for her birthday. Thank you to all who helped make it special. Brad’s birthday is on Friday, so to celebrate they are making the most of our three-day weekend and heading down south to Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Carmel. It should be lovely!

Well… not too exciting but that’s the update from here!

Rock City... and our city

Today Brad and I went to Mt Diablo State Park. The north entrance for the park is only about 5 minutes from our apt, so the short drive was nice! We drove to the summit and were able to see amazing views of our city (Concord) as well as Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Pleasanton, Danville, Antioch, Martinez, etc. Basically the entire Easy Bay! And supposedly a clear day you can see parts of Downtown and the Golden Gate Bridge... but unfortunately because of the fires, the air wasn't clear enough today. On our way out of the park, we drove to Rock City. This is this little area of rock formations that have grinding holes in them, originally made by Indian tribes. Those were neat to look at, but we had a lot more fun climbing the rocks! We took a lot of pictures because we climbed a lot of rocks, but when we looked at them after- they all looked the same! Oh well, we had a lot of fun there! Thanks Bret and Whitney for the tips!

Also, our weekend began on Friday with dinner and a temple session at the Oakland Temple with Bret and Whitney. The food was delicious, the company was great, and the temple, as always, was amazing. Here's us outside the beautiful Oakland temple: