Kelsey and Eric

Um... it's been a while

2012-02-07T10:36:00.001-08:00

So apparently we were really busy in the Fall and Winter! Thanks Emily for taking our wonderful Christmas photos.

Reader's Digest Version:

We hosted Thanksgiving at our house, my sister-in-law/best friend had a baby boy, we went to Disneyland with Steph, Jon, and Chase, Christmas was super special, in January we visited our amazing and wonderful Point Loma friends in California who just had a baby girl (and we went to Disney again), I visited my Sister, Jason, and Ace in Vegas, and then we did some house projects! Somehow we found some time to work in there. Eric gave me a Nook Color for Christmas, so I've read 12 books since December 25th. Whoops! We both read the Hunger Games Trilogy and we are looking forward to seeing the movie in March.

Oh and in the meantime, I became addicted to Pinterest and obsessed with a television show, Downton Abbey. I have found some great decorating ideas on Pinterest and could probably re-pin things all day if I didn't have clients e-mailing me. Sorry to those of you I introduced to both Pinterest and Downton Abbey.

Upcoming Events:
- Eric's sister Christina is set to have Baby Ryan on the 9th (tomorrow), so we are excited to meet him
- Going to see Wicked
- Brophy Hockey finals
- 80's prom 30th Bday party for our friend, Jen
- Ace 1st Birthday party in Vegas
- A visit from Britt, Bobby, and Bryn
- NYC and Pennsylvania in May

Hopefully we can get back to Disneyland and Kansas too! Please feel free to come visit us. We love having visitors.

San Diego

2011-10-04T16:15:00.000-07:00

We took a mini-vacation with Cortney, Jason, and Ace and my parents to San Diego in August. We rented our own little beach house on Mission Beach. It was wonderful!

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Kansas Friends

2011-08-14T00:05:00.000-07:00

Our good friends, Keith and Ragan (and their beautiful, smart, hilarious kids) came to stay with us. It was so refreshing to be able to spend time talking, playing games, night swimming, shopping and watching movies. It was one of those times when I felt extremely blessed that Eric and I are able to make our own schedules. I am very upset with myself because I didn't take very many pictures, but I did get Eric going for a train ride with the kiddos. We also went on the carousel at PV Mall, and I even was able to stomach it for one ride. I still don't understand why I can ride a rollercoaster over and over but can't go slowly around and around... thinking about it kinda makes me wanna ralph.

Anyways, it was wonderful to be able to spend some quality time with them... we have some hilarious stories and great memories. Eric was affectionately dubbed "Taco Mayo" on his last trip to visit them in Kansas and hopefully will keep his nickname for years to come. I miss them tons and hope we can head to Kansas to see them soon.

Kids Club 2011

2011-07-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

This year, I taught 50-60 (3rd and 4th grade) inner-city girls at Kids Club at Neighborhood Ministries. I had LOTS of help from student leaders, otherwise it would have been crazy. The kiddos would come every day for two weeks from about 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. We would go to worship, have class, and then had activies/field trips. I had a great time teaching the girls about making good choices... and ultimately making sure they knew that Christ chose to die on the cross for each and every one of them. Keep praying for them... every day they are bombarded with choices that most of us don't have to face. Please pray that they keep choosing to do what they've learned is right.

Vegas (video of Ace)

2011-06-15T13:50:00.000-07:00

Eric and I went to North Las Vegas last weekend to hang out and to watch Ace while Cort and Jason had some fancy Air Force stuff to do... Cortney took a couple of pics. I MUST find my camera! Ace is so cute and we love him. Ace LOVES to kick is feet, so I am talking to him about soccer in the video below. He loves having conversations.

Easter 2011

2011-05-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

It seems that I'm only blogging about Holidays, but Eric and I seem to only NOT work when it's a major holiday. We finally moved into our new home, and despite some plumbing issues, we LOVE it. We were able to swim in the pool (before the 70 degree weird, awesome, wonderful weather returned), and we were also able to host Easter for both sides of our families. It was a great day to celebrate the fact that Jesus is ALIVE.

The best news is that my nephew, Ace Jacob, was born on March 23rd. He is SO beautiful and wonderful, and I miss him. I was able to spend some time in Las Vegas after he was born, and they came for our Easter celebration, so we are trying to see him as often as possible. Cortney is a FABULOUS mother, and I am so very proud of them.

Enjoy some photos of the past few months. Thanks to my sis for sending these photos.

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Murrietta/Fankhauser/Armijo Christmas

2011-01-11T16:03:00.001-08:00

A digital scrapbook by Smilebox

Walker/Young/ Murrietta Christmas 2010

2011-01-04T13:17:00.000-08:00

I am a giant in my family :) Grandpa cut my head off!

Me, Mom, and Cort (and Ace)... Ellie smells something she wants to open.

We had a great time celebrating with my family! We are so blessed and are looking forward to the arrival of Baby Ace! Isn't Cortney's baby bump awesome?

More pictures of the Murrietta side to come!

Birthday Fun

2010-10-04T12:46:00.001-07:00

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Vegas Vacation

2010-09-28T12:16:00.000-07:00

Eric and I went to see my sister and Jason in Vegas and had a great time! We went to see "O" and I showed them my amazing Farkle skills. We ate at Mon Ami Gabi at the Paris and it WAS YUM-MO. We also swam and Cort hosted a Gold Canyon party for her friends! It was very fun and relaxing, and we can't wait to see them again.

Also, Cortney announced that they have a baby on the way! We are SOOOOO excited.

Our friends just welcomed twins, and another friend had her second little boy, so we are very excited for them as well!

Our newest venture

2010-09-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

I am now an Independent Gold Canyon Demonstrator! I am pretty much obsessed with their products, so I decided to earn some income from that enthusiasm.

I am having an open house at my mom's on Saturday, September 11th at 11 a.m. Please e-mail me at kelsey@flossystylishdesign.net or Kelsey.Murrietta@goldcanyon.us if you want to come. There will be a drawing for prizes (including custom Flossy Christmas cards) for those individuals who bring a guest.

Also, you can order from my website at www.mygc.com/kelseycandles.

The best way to get everything on your wish list is to host a party. I am trying to schedule parties weekly in the next couple of months since the Christmas Catalog is AMAZING. There are tons of items that anyone would love to receive for Christmas. I really want to get my new biz off to a great start.

Flossy Stylish Design is doing well! Thanks for your continued support. I am so blessed to be able to design your wedding invites, baby shower invites, baby announcements, graduation announcements, etc. I love having a small part in all of those big life events!

Don't forget to schedule your photo session if you want a family photo on your Christmas card. E-mail me for photographer options in your area. We have worked with photographers from all over, so even if you don't live in Arizona, please don't hesitate to ask for referrals.

Eric has started Brophy Hockey again, so we are getting excited for the season!

New Studio

2010-08-09T23:01:00.000-07:00

My mom and Emily Estfan of EME Photography recently moved into a new studio space for client meetings. It's awesome! Click HERE to see the photos that Emily took.

Homeless Landlords and Shamu

2010-07-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

We rented out our house and had to be out last weekend. It was SOOOOO hot. We couldn't have survived the move without Jon, Summer, Jason, Eric's parents, or my parents. THANK YOU! We are so blessed to have such amazing family and friends. Even Baby Chase helped! Thanks Vince and Theresa for allowing us to stay with you during this transitional/indecision time of our life.

Eric's Grandma Joyce went home to heaven at the end of June. She will be missed, but we know she is happy to be with the Savior that she so longed to see. It was nice to be able to spend time with Eric's extended family...

For the 4th of July weekend, we headed to San Diego for one of my BF's from Point Loma's wedding. Emily and Matt had a beautiful wedding and reception. We were talking and laughing so much that I didn't even have a chance to take any pictures! For the 4th of July, we went to SeaWorld with Steph, Jon, and Chase and Josh, Susie, and Anisa. It was chilly, but fun! We came home and had to work, work, work! We now have some time to sit back and think and pray about the next step...

A little reminder from the Sound of Music

2010-05-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

I don't want to copy Oprah with the whole "Favorite Things" thing, but sometimes when the dog bites or the bee stings, or if I'm annoyed with work or sick of thinking about wedding invitations, it really does help to remember my favorite things... these are items that make my life easier, shows that make me smile, etc.

Favorite Show
Glee--- It's amazing... I've always wished that life was a musical, and this show features amazing vocals and funny acting. Eric took me to the live show for my Birthday present... and it rocked!

Favorite Items #2 and #3

Floor and All-Purpose Cleaner from Gold Canyon-- they are safe and natural, and they smell delicious and work great!

Favorite Exercise

The P90X Plyo workout... I feel SO GOOD after I'm finished.

Favorite HGTV Show

Sarah's House-- she's amazing... she dresses well and has the most incredible job ever!

Favorite Shoes

B.O.C. by Born-- They are extremely comfortable and cute! I can wear them all day.

Favorite Makeup

Kirkland (from Costco) has paraben-free liquid foundation, concealer, and powder for around $15. Love it!

Favorite Skin Care Product

Usana Facewash, Body Wash, Lotion and Night Moisturizer... love it... been using it for years!

Favorite Pimple Corrector

Malaleuca Zit-Zap works really well and doesn't over-dry skin. Favorite Glass Cleaner
After trying everything from wipes to vinegar... I LOVE the kind from CostCo the best! It's called Sprayway glass cleaner.

House for Rent!

2010-05-14T11:16:00.001-07:00

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April 2010

2010-05-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

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2010 Thorne Cup Champs

2010-03-15T12:27:00.000-07:00

The Phoenix Polar Bears have won the Thorne Cup for the seventh time. It was fun to watch!!
Rick, one of our "roomies," was the MVP of the tournament.

They are also WSHL Western Division Champs, so they will be traveling to the National Tournament in Boston in a little over a week!

Congrats to the team and the coaching staff. Hoody can add this to a long list of accomplishments! What an amazing job!

Hockey is the coolest

2010-01-25T11:06:00.000-08:00

Come support the Polar Bear Junior A team this weekend. They are important games against the Boise Jr. Steelheads, so it's important that we have a big cheering section. The games are at Polar Ice in Chandler at 6:45 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights, the 29th & 30th. They are also playing at 11:30 a.m. on Sunday.

Also, Eric recently started coaching the Brophy Varsity Hockey Team. The cheering section seems to grow every week, so come join the fun! The game is at the Ice Den in Scottsdale on Sunday, January 31st at 8:35 p.m. They are doing AWESOME!!!

Goodbye 2009

2010-01-07T13:03:00.000-08:00

We went to a Coyotes game with some of Eric's family and mine on New Year's Eve. The game went into overtime and then to a shoot out and the Coyotes had to go and lose.

It was a fun game though! Baby Lily slept through the whole thing! Even through the annoying guy making weird noises behind us...

Christmas Slideshow

2009-12-29T16:53:00.000-08:00

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Christmas 2009!

2009-12-29T12:44:00.000-08:00

We had a really great Christmas 2009, and we hope that yours was wonderful as well.

We made gifts for each other with the Walker/Young side of the family, and I think it will be a tradition that sticks. It was fun to have the addition of Baby Lily to the Murrietta festivities as well. Both sets of parents went overboard again this year, but we really appreciate everything that they do for us!

Maui Pictures

2009-12-13T16:07:00.000-08:00

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My one Thanksgiving photo

2009-11-30T07:55:00.000-08:00

Our digital camera broke, so I took this with my phone. I think Eric's mom has a better one, so hopefully I can post that one later.

Eric is holding his new niece, Lily... and Pudge LOVES babies, so he is making sure that Eric is doing everything correctly.

We bought a digital camera on Black Friday. It's an Olympus and I'm not sure what I think about it yet! I will test it out in Hawaii this week and see what I think!!

Gift Ideas!

2009-11-19T08:02:00.000-08:00

I love Thanksgiving! It's my mom's favorite holiday, and I am starting to agree. On Thanksgiving, you have the anticipation of Christmas to come, great food, time with family, and hopefully time to reflect and give thanks! Eric and I have our own tradition of waking up super early on Black Friday and going shopping together. Last year, we stood in line to buy my parents a Wii!

I am doing Christmas gift ideas on my website blog... www.flossystylishdesign.net.

Hopefully you can find at least one helpful idea! I post them to get myself in the giving spirit. The wisemen brought Baby Jesus some pretty cool gifts, so hopefully we can give in the same spirit of love and adoration... not only to our loved ones, but to the many people who are struggling this year.

I'm hoping that a lot of the gift ideas can come from local vendors and businesses, so if you have any ideas, just leave them in the comments section!

I hope that everyone can enjoy the anticipation of the upcoming holidays. It's a little easier now that it's cooling down in Arizona!

Welcome Baby Lily!

2009-11-09T13:14:00.000-08:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

2009-11-05T13:36:00.001-08:00

Halloween 2009 and Gpa Clark's Bday

2009-11-05T12:38:00.000-08:00

We had a fun weekend! My mom had a beautiful party for my grandpa in their backyard, and it looked amazing! We had a great time eating my mom's delicious food, making s'mores, and chatting by their fire pit. The dogs had fun too!

Eric and I were Bella and Edward from Twilight for Halloween. I had Melissa dye my hair brown on a whim, and it worked well for my costume. We made Eric's face white and vampire like :) We had fun with friends at our casa, carving pumpkins and eating yummy food. We had a ton of trick or treaters this year. The doorbell wouldn't stop ringing! Jen took some of the photos from the slideshow. Thanks Jen!

Eric's sister, Christina, had her baby on November 3rd. Liliana Grace was 9lbs 7oz, 21 inches long. She is perfect! I will be posting a slideshow of photos very soon! I am a proud Aunt!

It's November 5th and in the 90's here in Phoenix. I had to wear dress clothes to a meeting, and I immediately came home to put on my SHORTS. I love it, but I'm ready to wear sweaters with my flip flops. And maybe a scarf if it drops below 55.

Kati and Matt's Wedding Week

2009-10-14T21:43:00.003-07:00

See the slideshow below!!! My best friend since 3rd grade, Kati, married my friend Matt (I've known him since I was a little tot) in McPherson at their church. They had their reception at the Kansas Cosmosphere. IT ROCKED! It was a brisk Kansas day (COLD) but we still managed to have some professional photos taken outside. I thought I my toes were going to fall off, but they survived! Mostly because I wore fuzzy airplane socks while assisting Kati during her bridal portraits. Most of the photos that you see in the slideshow below were taken by one of the other bridesmaids, Melanie! The slideshow of the wedding photos can be seen at http://www.gbpweddings.blogspot.com/. Dustin and Larry did an incredible job! Kati's parents were wonderful, and her mom spoiled us bridesmaids!

Eric drove the bridal party around, so that was fun! There is a photo of him taking his eyes of the road (gasp) to pose for a pic with me. There are also a couple of him with his yummy Arlene birthday cake. I had her make a bday cake for one of the hockey boys, and we carried it on the plane to bring home! It was the hot topic of the Wichita, Denver, and Phoenix airports. I have attempted this once before, only because Kati's mom brought me one on one of her visits. We are still enjoying it! YUMMY. We had it for Eric, at the wedding, and now in Phoenix. Can you imagine how WONDERFUL it is?!

We started our Kansas excursion in Parsons by visiting Keith and Ragan. I am dumb and didn't take any pictures of their adorable house or children. We had a BLAST with them and miss them so much!

Enjoy the slideshow below!

2009-10-14T21:43:00.001-07:00

Vegas Baby!

2009-10-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

My childhood bestest friend, Kati, was married this past Saturday, but before her big day, we headed to Las Vegas at the end of August! We chilled by the pool, went dancin', and had manicures. Kati's mom even shipped us amazing bags filled with good stuff. It was a fun weekend!

August!

2009-08-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

I had to post this! Pudge and Ellie like sitting in a chair and looking out the bedroom window. Pudge will sit there forever! I had to find him a pillow so that he could lay down to look!

My sister came to Phoenix, and the only picture I have was taken from my phone! It's very sad. We had a blast though... we stayed at Montelucia and were pampered in their spa... we sat by the pool, we swam, we watched movies, went to the D-Backs game... all sorts of fun stuff! It was very sad to tell her goodbye, but I am looking forward to seeing her in KS in October for Kati and Matt's wedding!

Summer, Theresa, Monica, Aunt Dawn, and I just gave Eric's sis, Christina, her baby shower for Liliana Grace, so I will post pictures of that, along with ones from the other baby showers. Good stuff!

Make sure to check out the many blogs we have! I just posted a teaser of the new Flossy Tumbleweed stationery line at http://www.flossystylishdesign.net/!

Summertime Excitement

2009-08-05T12:22:00.000-07:00

July was an exciting month! My mom and I flew to McPherson to finalize Kati and Matt's wedding plans! It was crazy with one meeting after another! I was able to see Kati and Matt's new home. I love it. It's beautiful and has giant trees and a big yard. Matt had to take Kati's car apart because there was a smelly dead bird stuck in it (see photo below). Kati has to drive on country roads for her job and unfortunately birds are attracted to her car for some reason. It was so nice to see them, but so hard to leave! Good thing I'll see her soon for her bachelorette party in VEGAS! Wohoo!

We also helped my cousin, Hannah, re-decorate her room. My mom planned it out and picked out everything, and it turned out SO CUTE (of course). We were able to celebrate Gracie's birthday and eat yummy Arlene Anderson cake! We took Zach and Gracie to the Salina mall and played glow in the dark mini golf and arcade games!

THEN, Hannah and her brother Tanner flew out to AZ with us! Tanner was hilarious from the beginning. He wanted to ask the security guards in Wichita if they would allow him to bring his "guns" on board while flexing his biceps. Hannah, my mom, and I had fun getting pedicures and going shopping. Tanner had is senior pictures taken by Emily Estfan. We also watched a Diamondbacks game from the TGI Fridays in the park! So fun! Tanner even survived a hike up Camelback Mountain with Eric. Not only did he survive, he beat the other guys up the mountain! We went swimming in our neighborhood pool too! I was extremely sad when they had to go home.

I am going to post pictures from the Summer Baby Showers too, so watch for that! Cort is coming on Saturday! YAY!! Oh, and let's not forget Eric! He went to Canada and Chicago for hockey stuff. He is staying busy of course. Make sure you refer him to anyone who is purchasing a new home. He is the best loan man in the whole world! Pray for his Gma Joyce and her health!

I love May

2009-05-23T07:58:00.000-07:00

We've had a fun May so far! We have been busy with work, and we love it. For Mother's Day, we went with my parents to the brunch at the Farm at South Mountain. It was delicious! It wasn't too hot, and I loved being outside. Eric's parents came over for dinner that night, and it was really nice to just sit and visit (and watch hockey).

For my birthday, we were thinking about going to Disneyland, but we both had so many work distractions that we didn't have time to figure out the details, so I told Eric that I wanted to take the day off and do all of my favorite things. Eric took me to Starbucks in the morning and then to get a massage and manicure. I went to the Jurlique Spa at Firesky Resort. They used PARABEN FREE lotions and products for my manicure. I was really excited. I wish I could go there weekly! My mom picked me up from the spa, and we went to check out the new West Elm and Williams Sonoma Home store. THEN, Eric took me to see Ghost of Girlfriends Past (I love movies). We went to Capital Grille for dinner. It was amazing and delicious. They had a birthday card on my table with little rose petals and birthday confetti.Then KRIS ALLEN WON AMERICAN IDOL. Seriously, it was an amazing day. We watched the show at my parents' house with my Aunt Nancy and Uncle Bob, and we were all very excited. PJ of La Dolce Pesca made a new favorite cake of mine... it is spectacular. It was so cute and was the perfect way to end the day!

We don't have anything planned for Memorial Day. We are taking it easy and going with the flow! We hope everyone is having a great weekend so far!

Green Thumbs?

2009-05-11T17:13:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my parents came over to help us landscape. I'm not sure I inherited the farming gene from the Walker family, but only time will tell. We planted some pretty roses, hibiscus, bougainvilleas, plants, and an orange tree! Oh, and we planted strawberry plants. I ate one and it was delicious. Small, but good!

Thanks to the 'rents for their hard work. I think my dad injured himself.

When we were young...

2009-04-16T11:28:00.000-07:00

My mom and grandma found some funny pictures while my parents were moving a couple of weeks ago, so I thought I would share. I included some of Eric when he was a kid as well! They crack me up.

Happy Birthday Cort! Today is my older sister's birthday! We had pretty sweet hair back then.

My dad and I... I think at one of my birthday parties.

Eric when he was five :)

I guess I always knew I was going to be an Arizona girl.

Eric and Jason looking ornery.

Flossy Giveaway

2009-03-27T12:56:00.001-07:00

I'm doing a custom notecard giveaway. Visit http://www.flossystylishdesign.blogspot.com/ for details.

Though I walk through the wilderness, Blessed be your name

2009-03-25T10:12:00.000-07:00

It has been a tough week... a busy week... a week of wrestling with the core of who I am and what I believe. I am thankful to have a strong husband who lets me cry and mourns with me over a friend's loss of a child... a friend/business acquaintance he's never met.

I realized that faith isn't as tangible in the good, sunny, beautiful times of life. It's easy to have faith in the good times. I realize that faith and the stuff of the heart shines through in the crappy, sad, dark times. You realize how strong a person's faith is in those crappy times.

I encourage everyone to read the blog of CJ Bergmen. I've never met CJ, but I work with his wife who is a wedding photographer. She took a lot of the photos for my business website. I have always known her to be strong, honest, and full of joy. I considered her a friend after only a few times of working with her. Please read their blog. You have to scroll down to the bottom to hear their entire story. I encourage you to read all of the posts from the past week. This couple is the real deal... the definition of faithful followers of Christ. They experienced the loss of their baby Titus... and used it as a opportunity to encourage others and to share their faith.

I run into people all over who know CJ and Renee in some way. After the memorial service, Eric spoke of how that little baby boy has already had more of an impact and witness for Christ than most of us have had our entire lifetime. I want to have even an ounce of Renee's strength and faith. Please read their story. It's not easy to take in, but it is important. It makes me ask myself how I would respond, how my marriage would respond, and if I'm standing on a rock or in sinking sand. Take time to admire their strength and faithfulness.

www.cjbergmenmusic.com/wordpress

Couches for Sale

2009-03-11T17:14:00.000-07:00

Call us if you are interested in our couches. We are redesigning my office and moving the couch downstairs, which means we no longer need our chocolate brown couch and love seat. I am kind of sad to let them go, but we must make a change.

We saw them in a home my Aunt Nancy (Feelz Like Home) redesigned, and we went out and bought some for ourselves. They are two years old (in June). Let me know if you are interested!

All of my beautiful friends and family members who currently have a bun in the oven should check out my Flossy Blog. We had a super cute baby shower last weekend at The Boulders in Scottsdale. Also, Jenna's (Eric's cousin) wedding photos are posted on my Flossy website, so feel free to visit the site. The pictures are AMAZING.

The Shopping Mama

2009-01-29T12:54:00.001-08:00

One of my sister's friends (and a new favorite client of mine) has a really cute and helpful blog called The Shopping Mama. She blogs about really great deals and fun finds. Yesterday, she highlighted some thank-you notes that we designed for her son. She also said some very nice things about Flossy, so check it out! I know it's a blog that you will enjoy visiting often. I know I will!

Christmas Highlights

2009-01-20T11:54:00.000-08:00

Eric and I gave Mark and Christyna a puppet show.

The Murrietta/Fankhauser/Armijo kids and spouses gave Vince and Theresa a photo for Christmas. Theresa is trying not to cry.

I love my new hat. I'm also wearing a new robe.

Grandma Joyce opening her present we gave her.

Christyna, Mark, and Monica

Summer opening her Christmas present. I was wearing everything I received.

We love puppies.

Mom and Dad opening the Wii

Eric opening his Olympic Highlights

Cortney and Jason on New Year's Eve

Sisterly Love. My mom, sister, and I all wore off-white the day we opened presents.

Pudge and Ellie were sad the presents were gone.

Frosty, our tree, and our stockings

I know it's kind of late to be posting our pictures from Christmas, but better late than never.
We had a really fun Christmas this year. We were able to celebrate numerous times!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Eric and I have been watching Christmas movies every night, and the basic theme has been that presents and material things aren't as important as giving love and spending time with family and friends. I agree, and I look forward to the next few days of family time.

The wisemen brought really amazing gifts to baby Jesus, so I think the gift giving tradition is still important. I discovered that I show love through giving gifts, so Christmas is an exciting time for me. Presents don't have to be expensive or fancy... they just have to come from the heart.

I blogged on my Flossy blog about showing thanks and appreciation for the gifts we're given. I haven't done the best job of that in the past, so I wrote the Flossy blog as a reminder for myself. I hope that we can all show each other how thankful we are, not only for presents, but also for the precious time that we spend together.

Eric and I, and Pudge and Ellie of course, wish everyone a very Merry Christmas. It's such a special time to remember the Birth of our Savior. He truly is the reason we celebrate.

Go Polar Bears!!!!

2008-12-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

We have EXTREMELY exciting news. Eric coaches a 16 year-old travel hockey team and they had a big, important tournament in Las Vegas called the Silver Stick. They have regional Silver Stick tournaments all over and the winners of the region will meet in Canada for the national tournament. Eric's team came out on top of our region! It was soooo exciting, as the last two games went overtime. The Championship game was tied 1-1 after overtime, so they went to a shoot-out! It was crazy, but we came out on top. Our goalie did awesome under pressure! I felt very blessed to be able to be there to cheer them on. Canada here we come!!

The boys were champs off the ice as well. The team adopted a family for Christmas, so we went to Target to shop for them. I had a group of four of the players, and they cracked me up. We only had one threat to kick us out of the store, and the boys helped me by trying on women's shoes to see which ones looked nice. They each donated money for the gifts. They are a really fun group of young men.

Here is an article from the Arizona Hockey Union website. We now have a banner to hang at the rink and each of the boys received a pin and a medal. So cool. Eric received one too. There is a quote from Eric in the article below.

Midget U16AA '92sThe Arizona Hockey Union 92U16AA team captured the Silver Stick Western Regional championship in Las Vegas over the December 5th thru 7th weekend.

The team played three tough games in the round robin, finishing with two wins and one loss and earned a trip to the semifinals as the second seed in their bracket. On Sunday, they rose to play the California Heat and it came down to the wire, winning in over time 2-1. That wasn’t the biggest task of the day, as just five hours later they were to play in-state rival Phoenix Jr. Coyotes for the chance to move onto the Silver Stick finals in January. Trailing 1-0 with about 11 minutes remaining, they tied the score. It was to be a battle to the end as both teams were fighting for the go ahead goal. The game ended tied and made it through five minutes of over time still knotted at 1-1. Nine shooters later, the Union 92 team came out victorious in the shoot out and earned their chance to play in New Market, Ontario, Canada at the Silver Stick National Tournament.

Coach Eric said, “It was a tough weekend, but the boys battled and wanted to win this tournament. We came up short in one game on Friday where we fell apart as a team, but they learned from it and found a way to get it done today. They should be proud of what they’ve accomplished.”

It was a great weekend for the boys and Coach Eric (and parents too!). Everyone is very excited to be moving onto the finals in Canada over the January 16th thru 18th weekend.

Halloween 2008

2008-11-03T13:02:00.001-08:00

This year, a few close friends (and a few of their dogs) came to our house on Halloween evening after celebrating other places. Kati helped me get ready, and I think everyone had a pretty good time. Joel (my sister's brother-in-law and one of Eric's best friends) brought a pinata. So fun. I created a one hit rule after Melissa smacked the poo out of it. She is a master at hitting pinantas. I think it was her bumblebee costume. I didn't even try. I was scared. We had a plethora of cute costumes... everything from bacon and eggs to the Geico Caveman!

See Melissa's skills...

Ellie and Melissa were both bumblebees.

Pudge's hot dog kept falling off. His diet must be working.

Mookie was a dinosaur and had Barney Rubble riding on his back.

We are dog sitting for my parents.

Buster, Joel's dog, was a pirate, but he let Pudge wear his hat, so I didn't get a photo.

Decor...

Eric and I were Fred and Wilma and Kati and Matt were Betty and Barney... thanks to Kati's mom for making the costumes.

Shannon and Adam... it's a teddy bear in there.

Joel as the Geico Caveman

Tom and Jen as the Doctor and Nurse.

Ben and Jen go together like Bacon and Eggs

Isaac the Bee Removal Man and Melissa the Bumblebee

It was really great to be able to see everyone!

The Biggest Loser

2008-10-22T09:29:00.000-07:00

On the days that I don't want to drive to the gym... which is pretty much every day... I bought "The Biggest Loser Cardio Max" workout video. It's no Paula Abdul, "Get up and Dance" which is my favorite, but it's a good workout. My first crack at it was last week and, in the midst of the video, I'm thinking "This isn't too hard." The next two days however, my behind/legs/back hurt so badly I couldn't walk normally or sit comfortably. That was Level 1. Today, in about two minutes, I must attempt level two. I am blogging about this video for two reasons:

1. So that people hold me accountable of working out. It's about my health, my heart, my endorphins, my energy level, etc.

2. So that people know why I'm walking funny.

Pudge and Ellie do NOT like the workout video. They sit between me and the television, and sometimes they start licking my ankles and getting anxious. Hopefully this is just a phase until they realize that I'm not hurting myself intentionally.

Until next time....

Kelsey

You light up my life...

2008-10-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

I've been searching for the perfect yellow bedding since we moved in last June. We had a seriously cute blue and brown comforter that was soothing and wonderful, but it was becoming dingy and dirty due to our perfectly cute puppies.

I found this amazing set on wrapables.com but didn't want to spend the money. However, after searching for a year, I bit the bullet and bought this beauty (like my alliteration?). Walking into our bedroom makes me feel instant happiness.

We completed the look with the wall squares from Uppercase Living. My Aunt Nancy is a distributor, so let me know if you want to see a catalog. They go PERFECTLY with the bedding and with the entire room. On the opposite wall, we hung beautiful art from Ikea. We also bought long, chocolate brown panels for both sides of the window. I love it! We just need lamps and we're set!

Dine to Donate

2008-09-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

Come help Eric's hockey team raise money! They are having a Dine to Donate night at the 4609 E. Chandler Blvd. Applebee's on Wednesday, September 24th (Happy Birthday Summer!) from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. All you have to do is hand the above flyer to your waitress, and Applebee's will donate 10% of the bill to the team. Tell your friends and family!

San Francisco

2008-09-06T14:54:00.000-07:00

Tess and Britt jumping in front of the houses from Full House... we decided the blue one was Kimmy Gibbler's house and the yellow was the Tanner residence.
Amber and I near the Golden Gate Bridge

In a cute neighborhood... the five of us (Me, Tessa, Emily, Brittany, Amber)

On the Pier

Hanging on the Trolley (Amber, me, Emily)

Britt on the trolley... so cute

Britt and I... apparently it was windy or something went terribly wrong with my hair

On the Golden Gate Bridge

Eric and I flew to San Jose for his hockey tournament, and I met my Point Loma girls in San Francisco for a fun-filled Labor Day weekend. Brittany and I took the "Baby Bullet" train from San Jose to San Fran and decided we should walk to the hotel. It was a LONG walk. And we were pulling suitcases. We stayed positive and were only slightly frazzled upon arrival.

It was so refreshing to be able to spend time with Brittany, Tessa, Emily, and Amber and to catch up on everything. Tessa is heading back to Paris, so it was kind of sad not knowing when I'd be able to see her again. She was my roomie at PLNU for the year-and-a-half that I spent there. Sometimes I get really sad that I didn't finish my college experience at Point Loma, but last weekend made me realize how blessed I was to have been there for even a short time. They are all hilarious, loving, generous, and one-of-a-kind girls.

San Francisco is awesome because it's such a great workout to walk around everywhere. My calves were sore! Time to get back to the gym! We took some fun pictures. I even enjoyed the cranky, hungry, need a shot of espresso, I can't believe how small the portion is for the price, annoyed with the music selection moments. It was my first time in San Fran, and I loved it. Enjoy!

I am going to post individual shots later. Tessa took some cool ones.

Hannah's Visit

2008-08-20T07:58:00.000-07:00

My cousin Hannah... actually she's my cousin Stacey's daughter... so she's my first cousin once removed or something of the sort... ANYWAYS, my cousin Hannah came from Kansas to visit us in Phoenix. She stayed with my parents. It was a little warmish when she was here, but it stormed, so she was able to experience a monsoon. Not quite like a Tornado, but it cooled it off for a little bit. We had SOOOO much fun with her. She learned to put Eric in his place when he was being a weirdo. It was hilarious. You can tell she has brothers.

Hannah is turning into a beautiful young lady, and I was thinking about how I was in computer lab in middle school when I found out she had been born. It was seriously one of the most exciting days of my life. I waited in anticipation for her arrival into the world, and she did not disappoint. She is an incredible and fun girl. Hannah and her family are extra special to me. I miss them so much it hurts!

We did so many fun things when she was here. We ate at TGI Friday's at the Diamondbacks game... best seats ever! She stayed at a resort with my parents and we took all of the dogs. She and my mom shopped 'til they dropped. We had pedicures and manicures, Melissa cut Hannah's hair, and Emily did a photo shoot with her. AMAZING pictures. She is extremely photogenic. I had to hold back tears when I had to tell her goodbye, but I knew that she had the coolest family ever waiting for her back in Kansas :) Here are a few pictures from her visit. I will post a video that we took at the baseball game on my phone once I figure out how to do it.

Our pretty toes

At the D-Backs game! Thanks for the sweet seats, Mom!

Eric and Hannah playing games at the restaurant

Hannah had about 20 people a day commenting on her amazing eyes (watch out for boys, Stacey and Mark).

From three jobs to two...

2008-08-11T21:24:00.000-07:00

I officially gave notice that I am resigning from my position at Moors & Cabot. I am really going to miss having Starbucks downstairs and my daily conversations with Andee. She taught me a lot about the business; but alas, I must strike out on my own and dedicate my time to Flossy Stylish Design, my invitation business AND to In Awe Weddings and Events with my mama. I am so excited for my new endeavor, so keep me in mind for Christmas cards, wedding invites, marketing materials, baby announcements, shower invitations, birthday parties... you get it.

My business website is under construction, but I will post more about that soon (hopefully). My last day at Moors & Cabot is supposed to be August 28th... then I'm off to San Fran for a girls weekend with my Point Loma ladies for Labor Day. Then I am coming home to work really hard at doing something that I love. I am extremely thankful to have a husband and a family who believe in me and support my endeavors.

I wouldn't say a "Blog Hog"

2008-08-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

She isn't a blog hog. Much to her dismay I have three other blogs that I post to...

All of which have various slants. Well the 1st and 3rd are definitely business related but the second is a little social experiment I am trying.

To daily stuff...Kelsey makes a mean chicken stuffed ricotta. Okay Trader Joe's made it but Kelsey can heat food up with the best of them. I do enjoy when she makes dinner, probably the highlight of most weeknights because I love food and especially anything she makes.

My goal is to improve this little blog so I think my next purchase will be a Flip Cam . I hope to start posting fun home videos here and then professional tips of the day. Should be exciting...at least that is the idea.

Thought for the day: Remember when you were a kid and 8:30 was such an early time to go to bed...Oh how I long for an 8:30 bed time. I don't think it will happen in the near future.

I'm a blog hog.

2008-07-31T07:42:00.001-07:00

So, Eric has only posted one blog. Granted, I can write them at work and he can't, but still. I wish I could post something fantastic. I want to post that we're moving to Hawaii, or we won the lottery, or we bought a new puppy and I'm naming it Mack or Bucket or something. Don't get me wrong, I feel totally blessed. I have an amazing family and fun friends, funny puppies, and a husband who makes me laugh out loud on a daily basis. I just don't feel very interesting right now. We are going to finish our bedroom so that's exciting. I'll post pictures of our new bedding once we order it. I know you're sitting on the edge of your seats with that one. Anywho, I was at Target and found that the Dyson purple pet vacuum was on sale. I still can't afford it, BUT someday... It's just so pretty in all of its K-State purple glory. I love cleaning supplies. And office supplies. OH... and school supplies.

I love my puppies and Eric too

2008-07-24T16:34:00.000-07:00

I had to share these pictures that I took last night. Our puppies crack me up. Ellie likes to lay RIGHT above my head, but while I was getting ready for bed, she snuck behind Eric to read over his shoulder.

I just practiced their commands, and I told Ellie to "speak" and she laid down instead. I think I need to make sure we go over their tricks a little more often. It made me laugh out loud. She must have been extremely excited for her treat, because she loves to "speak." Pudge likes to watch the Dog Whisperer and Animal Planet, so hopefully I can snap a picture of that soon. I know, I know... they're just dogs... but I think they're the coolest.

Favorite Things

2008-07-14T18:52:00.000-07:00

There are a few products that make my life so much easier. Some make it more fragrant... from the dogs' breath to the carpet! Some products iron out the wrinkles, take out the stains, or save me a trip to the video rental store.

Intrigued? I wanted to share my favorite products with all of you. I'm sure some of you already use a few of these, but consider this my ode to all of the great things that I use every day!

(These products are in no particular order of Kelsey's favoritism... if you don't like some of them... too bad!)

1. John Frieda Crystal Clear Shape & Shimmer Hairspray- it's inexpensive and it doesn't weigh my hair down... I use it in humid Florida and dry AZ. I can pick it up at the grocery store, too.

2. E Solutions Pedicure Foot Cream- the most amazing stuff ever. The gals at Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa sold me on it. I slather it on at night, and I haven't had dry feet since!

3. Mrs. Meyer’s Odor Removing Carpet Cleaner- They make their pet products with the organic and natural essential oils of Clary Sage and Chamomile to calm and soothe your pet. Their products are cruelty-free and environmentally friendly. They have all sorts of cleaning products for baby and for your home.

4. Usana HealthPak 100 Vitamins- Energy and Nutrition... pharmaceutical grade... the best stuff ever!

5. Downy Wrinkle Reducer- I hate ironing... especially when it's a zillion degrees outside. I use it for bed linens, clothes... it's awesome.

6. Apple TV- One of the brokers at work gave it to me, and I think he may regret it. We LOVE this thing. It links up to my iTunes, and we can rent movies, listen to our music, and create slideshows.

7. Horizon Organic Fat Free Vanilla Yogurt- Oh so yummy, fat free, and organic. It makes my stomach feel better, and I don't have to worry about weirdo added ingredients.

8. Uppercase Living- They sell words for your wall! I put my business name on my office wall. My mom has some really cute ones too. You can pick pre-made quotes or create custom designs. My Aunt Nancy is a sales associate for them!

9. Usana Skin Firming Lotion- Paraben free and skin firming. I don't have to worry about putting potential cancer causing agents on my skin. Did you know if you stand on a clove of garlic, you'll be able to taste it in a short amount of time? Our skin is transdermal people. What you put on it goes into your blood stream!

10. 3M Dog Dental Treats- They smell minty fresh, my puppies love them, and they don't make Pudgie barf.

11. Luna Bars- Nutz over Chocolate is my favorite. They are made with 70% organic ingredients and are low glycemic. Not to mention SCRUMPTIOUS.

12. Wet Ones- You know 'em... you can grab them on your way out of Target in that checkout section that has all of those little things you didn't know you needed. You need these. They take out stains, they're antibacterial, and they're not bulky, so you can take them wherever you go.

13. Febreze- It makes everything smell so great!

14. Dan in Real Life- I don't see how anyone couldn't love this movie. It shows the importance of family, forgiveness, love, and laughter!

15. Google- My answer to everything in life "Google it."

Catching up with Friends

2008-07-01T07:28:00.000-07:00

Ragan and Keith Schubert and their daughter Anna (and as Anna states, "Baby Amos who is in my mommy's tummy") came to stay with us while they were catching up with old friends in Arizona. Keith was the youth pastor on staff in Glendale while Eric was the young adults pastor. Eric was EXTREMELY excited to see Keith, and I think he's going through withdrawal now.

It was one of those weekends where I was extremely tired from the work week, but I knew that I was going to remember it as one of the best times we've experienced. I had so much fun playing hide and seek with Anna in Chipotle and acting in all of the mini plays that she directed based on Disney characters. She really liked playing with Pudge and Ellie, who have been sleeping non-stop since yesterday. Anna made me laugh out loud numerous times! She would sing to us in the car and pray for our food. She was instantly friends with everyone in the room. We traded names, so when Eric said, "Kelsey!" Anna replied with "What!". It was so fun to learn about their lives, to talk about the past, and to look forward to the future. Ragan is beautiful and glowing and thrilled about their first son. Keith is VERY excited about having a boy, and Anna will soon have another actor for her plays.

Our house seems quiet and boring now, so everyone should feel free to come stay with us or stop in for a visit. We miss them a ton already, but we know they fit in well with the wonderful people in Kansas. I think that Kansas produces pretty awesome families, and we can't wait to see them again!

Kelsey

Another Weekend

2008-06-22T19:35:00.001-07:00

Anxiousness sets in for us around this time on Sunday night. Usually it is because work seems so close and freedom seems so far. Mostly it is because we begin the week like we began last week. Nothing much changes, except for what you do with your little moments.

This past weekend we had a nice little dinner gathering with four other friends. It was a lot of fun. Kelsey and I spent the whole day getting ready for the dinner, we worked out, went to the store, laid by the pool (little relaxation), cleaned the house, made the dinner and then just hung out. It was one of those times when you get to just enjoy the company of your friends and fortunately for me a wife that is pretty sweet. It was really fun and the more I am married to Kelsey the more I enjoy entertaining people and entertaining with her. There is something in sharing a meal together and talking about nothing at all.

We then had breakfast this morning, worked a little bit and went and saw the "Incredible Hulk" on a recommendation from my co-worker Laurie. It was good and there were definitely tense parts to the movie. We are looking forward to this week, because though the week brings hard work, it is usually rewarding and more fun than sitting around doing nothing (I don't sit well.) So, we look forward to the last weekend in June and hope that we make headway this week to achieving our goals.

My thought for the week: Life is lived in the little moments. It may be the big moments we crave but it is the little moments we cherish. Live your life purposefully between the events others say will define it and you will have more definining moments.

Summer and Jason

2008-06-22T10:40:00.001-07:00

Eric's younger brother, Jason, married my new sister, Summer, in February. It was a BEAUTIFUL wedding! They are living in Washington now, and I miss them so much it hurts! I hope you enjoy these wonderful pictures. I love the portrait of Summer by herself! Gorgeous!

Emily Estfan of EME Photography took their wedding photos, and my mom coordinated! You can see Christa, the videographer in the first shot where I was putting on Summer's cute pink shoes! The wedding was at Troon Country Club in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Kelsey

Our Babies

2008-06-19T12:41:00.001-07:00

Okay, so all two of our comments demanded pictures of our puppies. Of course, I am happy to oblige. Pudge is the ruby (tan) one and Ellie is the tri-color (black and white) one. They are snuggly and wonderful. Pudge has recently taken a liking to our silk plants, and Ellie has a mohawk that cannot be tamed. Pudge turns his head when you ask him questions. One of the pictures demonstrates this. I think they are pretty special!

Kelsey

Comments

2008-06-19T08:33:00.001-07:00

If you want to leave a comment on our blog, click on the link entitled "0 comments" or "1 comment." Thanks!

Photobooth

2008-06-18T22:04:00.000-07:00

Kelsey was in our friends' wedding in March, (Sandy coordinated) and it was really nice. Stephanie and Jon had a photobooth at their reception, and it was a HUGE hit. We had some good times, and these are some of my favorite pictures of us.

Eric

New Blog!

2008-06-18T14:31:00.001-07:00

We wanted to have a blog so that our friends and family could keep up with us more easily! You all might not really be interested in what we're doing, but it gives me something to do at my day job.

Eric is coaching the Polar Bears with the Arizona Hockey Union... he'll post more later. I am crazy with my mom's biz, my invitation business, and at the stock brokerage. I will soon be my own boss... hooray! We enjoy married life, and we love our puppies, Pudge and Ellie. They are hilarious!

We want this to be interactive and fun, so feel free to leave comments. Eventually I want to start a Blog Bible Study where we discuss books online and stuff. Fun times!

That's all for now! Love you all!

Kelsey