Audrey and Andrew

Puppy Names

2011-05-24T19:14:00.000-07:00

The afternoon the puppies were born I called Andrina to let her know. The conversation went like this:

Andrina: Hello?

Me: Hello Andrina, this is Auntie Audrey.

Andrina: Hi.

Me: Guess what!

Andrina: what.

Me: No, really guess!

Andrina: uuuhm, I don't know!

Me: Opie had her puppies this morning!

Andrina: OH!

Andrina: MOM! OPIE HAD HER PUPPIES!

Andrina: When can I come see them?

Me: I don't know yet, I will have to talk to your mommy.

Andrina: What are their names?

Me: I don't know, how about you name them!

And there you have it.

Andrina has named the puppies.

(all but fat head, I named him.. mostly because he has a fat head, but also because my grandpa bob used to call us that)

They are also in the order of birth.

So adorable.

Want one?

we're gunna get there soon

2011-05-19T02:19:00.001-07:00

I am so am so amazing.
Seriously.

Andrew's email account at St. Cloud state was being deleted due to the fact he is no longer a student there. So we had to create a new one. With the upcoming wedding and all we decided we would just create a joint email account... mostly because I am sick of my old one. It was great in high school and all, but lets grow up now.

It was late, I had to work the next day.. I was staying up.. we had just made a run to the cities (and all day affair) got our engagement photos done (AMAZING)..
I was pretty pooped, but we HAD to get it done. His account was being deleted that very next day.
Mind you we had few weeks notice..

I was super excited, and got ahead of myself..
again, I was tired.

So now we have two accounts. One because we had already emailed a very important person and we will deal with deleting it later. And the second one because I screwed up the first one.

ameister@gmail

It works for both of us (Andrew, Audrey in case you didn't get it!)
of course that was not available.
so we added numbers...
I had the perfect ones in mind. The upcoming wedding date. Month and Year.
Like I said.
I . Am. Awesome.
0530
perfect right?!?

except

we defiantly ARE NOT getting married in 21 days.
guess who didn't figure this out until my lovely mother pointed it out to me the next morning?
yep.
BOTH of us. SAD.
I had already created and AWESOME new blog and everything.
ameisters.blogspot.com
I loved it.
I had to delete it.
It was connected to the wrong email account.
An email account that is being deleted ASAP.
Oy.
I thought that by deleting it I would have released the URL into the internet heavens free to be used again by me. Guess again!

I hope that when we delete the wrong email account that THEN I will be able to use that. Until then I will continue on this. One would say that I could just come up with another one. Nope.
I. Don't. Want. To.
Most likely it will come down to me waiting until I delete the email, trying it again, and failing. Then and only then will I accept defeat and come up with something stupid. Blog.com suggested andrewandaudrey.blogspot.com. No Thank You. I could do aameister.blogspot.com and sound like we are recovering alcoholics. No Thank You. I really don't want numbers. oy.
Maybe if it doesn't I can make a plea to the internet blogging gods to release the URL and give it back to me.
maybe.
Until then I will keep updating you on our oh so wonderful lives.

Here is one for you.
Sit back and enjoy.

********************************************************

May 18th 2011

Andrew and I spent the later part of the day hanging out in St.Cloud, something we have not done in a LONG time. If we are not working, we are not driving anywhere. Unless of course it is for wedding stuff or a cute little Gross baby.

So for us to go into St. Cloud to just hang out is kinda a big deal.

We packed up Roque and a very pregnant Opie and headed off.

After a quick stop at the vet (a few follow up questions regarding Roque) we were off!

First stop,

FOOD.

After working an overnight, and going straight to bed until noon, showering and getting ready, a quick nap in the car, I was STARVING.

Jimmy Johns was lunch of choice and since it was an amazingly beautiful day we headed to Whitney park to walk the dogs.

We headed to my work to visit some friends and patients then headed of to the only stores that allowed pets. Petco and Petsmart. My two favorite places.

We were on the hunt for some halters for our awesome dogs. They pull to the point of hacking.

Right after we headed to Calvary Frisbee golf course with our friend Jerry.

18 holes with lots of sunshine and happiness.

Oh and walking.

Lots and lots of walking.

Remember how Opie is Prego?

She did great. Walked all but like 10 feet.

Then we went to dinner.

They sat in the car.

Why did I tell you about my whole day.

so I can tell you this...

as a result....

5 puppies.

FIVE!

two girls

three boys

...

I think it may have been all that walking.

not but 5 hours after we arrived safely home Opie started panting like crazy.

We walked those babies right out of her.

No worries.

She was a bit overdue.

We thought she would not allow Roque to be around her during or after delivery... let alone around or touching the puppies, but she did.

It was freaking adorable.

let me show you.

Eventually Roque got right down into the middle of the action and was helping Opie clean puppies.

awww...

It was such a long night but so exciting! We can't wait until the eyes are open and they start waddling around!

want one?

seriously.

Puppies??

2011-04-28T16:34:00.000-07:00

Yep.

Opie is pregnant.

We are thinking about 6 weeks along, give or take a week.

She is due around May 15th - again, give or take a week.

I guess we will get about a weeks heads up.. when she starts producing milk.

I love the puppies, the mess though... that's Andrew and Opie's department.

Fat Girl.

Seriously.

Opie is SUPER cuddly right now.

Its her raging hormones.

I love it.

For a while she has made underneath our bed her hangout/hiding spot and lair.

We just blocked it off yesterday.

I think she is mad, or depressed.

now she just lays there staring at the boxes that keep her from her sanctuary.

Its sad, and a bit pathetic.

She also groans every time she moves, its pretty awesome.

I get to cuddle and play with these cute puppies for 6-8 weeks,

then (hopefully) hand them off to loving people in exchange for some green.

Puppy anyone?

My whole heart for my whole life

2011-03-29T19:51:00.000-07:00

Four months and eighteen hours until one of the greatest days of my life. And things are going great!

We have a florist, no a GREAT florist for many reasons. 1-They are right down the alley fro the Ballroom. 2- She is creative and really easy to work with. 3- I got what I want at a really reasonable price.

We have a caterer, the food is not all picked out.. but we loved what we tried.

My flower girl and nieces dresses are here, and oh so adorable!

My shadow band is done and paid for, and looks great with my ring!

We have a Photographer, who is amazing.

We have almost decided on a DJ.

I'm not as stressed out as I used to be. I would stay up thinking about everything I have to get done, and how much money it would take and how/when I was going to accomplish all of this. And now I sleep like a baby.
Don't get me wrong, we still have a lot to do, its just not as daunting.

I can't wait to see all the people we both love in one big room sharing our day with us!

Roque, Roquer, Al Roquer, Alberto

2011-03-12T21:34:00.000-08:00

The first day we had Roque.

We just happened to be walking around the lake with Opie when a girl came up to us asking if she was the one that was at the pet store. Nope, had her a while! She said there was a long haired little boy there, and that he was so sweet!

I had to have him!

Andrew said no right away.. but at this time I was crippled and on crutches and I got my way.

We raced over there, and asked about him.

The stupid place didnt even remember they had him, he was on the side wall of kennels.

And he was on sale.

Why?

They said he was ugly.

well they were wrong, he was adorable, and cheap.

They lost out on such a good sale.. because I would have bought him anyway.

So we got a super good deal, and took him home right away.

but..

When we got him we didn't realize he was sick.

Well kinda, he puked on the way home, and drooled for what seemed to be forever.

We thought he wasn't used to being in a car and summed it up to be carsickness.

wrong.

The poor little guy had kennel cough, and laid around like this for nearly two weeks.

We had to rush him to the vet one night because he wouldn't stop drooling or hacking/puking. I felt so bad for the little guy. We found out that night that he hates needles, and cried the whole time.

He also would hardly eat.

After taking him to the vet, she suggested we wait for a bit, and if he got worse then she would test for kennel cough. Andrew and I tried waiting, but two days later we called her (on our way to Duluth, with the puppies) and told her we are certain kennel cough was what it was. She sent a prescription to the Walgreen's up there (I didn't even know I could get it from there!) and we started him on that right away.

At first it did not go well at all.

And the meds were barely working.

So I called again, and she prescribed something different.

Oh and by this time Opie started coughing too.

Awesome.

The second medicine we gave them smelled like butterscotch and they both loved it.

Opie would even sit pretty for it.

She also hated him the moment we brought him home.

But with my persistence and a bit of force I got this picture, and she grew to love him.

So did we.. well Andrew

And now little Roque is 1! and almost as big as Opie.. although much harrier and cuddly then her, and crazy submissive. But we are working on that.

Look, I KNOW they are "just" dogs, and kids are waaay better and blah blah blah. But right now, I don't have kids. So I am just going to enjoy them, baking them treats, and blogging about them.

Just think how awesome of a mom I will be!

Beautiful morning, sad day

2011-03-11T14:42:00.000-08:00

I will be the first to tell you that I hate winter. I only enjoy it from when it starts, until just after New Years. After that it can go away. But here in Minnesota it likes to stay nearly year round. I hate the cold, I hate the ice, I hate the sand and snow that get into my car. I hate how my car gets dirty so freaking fast.

At this time of the year there is very few things I can say I like. Sledding-which only happens once in a while, if not just once. My very pretty hats and scarves. And this...

I loved my drive home this morning. It was so beautiful. I wish I would have been able to capture the sunrise, but it was a bit cloudy in Milaca. I absolutely love the frost on trees, it makes everything look so clean and peaceful , and definitely put me in a good mood on the long drive home despite the horrific things happening in Japan and all over the different coasts. I could not even begin to imagine what it would be like to have your world shaken down around you, then to have it washed away. Such sadness and pain. The anticipation of what is to come has got to be the worst. Not knowing when and if a tsunami will hit.. one of the scariest things. I just hope that through all this people will pull together and realize there is much more to life then fancy things, and status and that its about family, friends and enjoying life as much as possible.

Running in circles

2011-03-10T00:02:00.000-08:00

Today was a good day.
Shopping, lunch and a long long nap.
I loved it.
But mostly I love Meister.
He made the day so wonderful, just being around him.

We have such an amazing relationship. It really helps that we were friends first. (However short the friendship was prior to dating). Being around him makes me happier then I could imagine.
Gross huh?

**

As always I am constantly working on wedding.

Tonight its Save The Dates.
They look so awesome, and I love that I only have to enter in the addresses and they do everything else.
And I must say, I really am a crafty person. But I think this occasion I may just sit this out. Not completely of course. I have a few little projects that I am working on... but I love, and will love, not having to stress the details of certain things.
a) Flowers, centerpieces, decor. Yes I could do it myself, yes I would enjoy it. AT FIRST. Have you ever made Christmas cards? They are so fun to create and do yourself. For about the first 5. And let me tell you.. when you are sending out over 100.. they lose the novelty and quickly become a chore. Something I really do not want for the wedding.
b) Food. I am so excited I don't have to worry about when something will be ready on time, or how one of my family members is slaving over a hot stove when they should be enjoying the company of the ones they love and cherish the most. Catering really is the answer. For me at least.
c) Music. There WILL be a DJ. I do NOT want to worry what to play next, if people like it, and who will make sure the "first dance" goes well. That is a professionals job. Not mine, or my friends/family. If only My dear buble could show up.
d)Addressing. I HATE it with a passion. And someone else is going to do it for me. And its going to look good.

Also. If I have asked for your address. PLEASE get it to me asap. I need to get these to you.

My darling, you look wonderful tonight.

2011-03-09T01:13:00.000-08:00

I don't like it. One bit.

I feel like it has consumed my life.

I don't want to make decisions. I want them to be made for me!

Only 4 Months 21 Days and 23 Hours before I become Mrs. Meister.

Whoa.

Well,

Enough about that.

***

Today I woke up at 2:00 pm. Late, I know. But when you have worked an overnight like I had, and then not been able to fall asleep until 9, that's a bit too early.

Why may you ask did I wake up that early?

To take these two darlings sledding. Not a picture from today (because I am a bad auntie) but they looked about the same. Adella was not, and has not been a fan of sledding. Yet. She only went down with me once, while saying the whole time "no, no, no, no". Did I listen? Nope! She liked it a little I am sure.
We had picked up Andrew's little brother Matthew up from school and brought him along. I tell you, best idea ever. Andrina is one active little girl, and I was so tired, that well Matthew was heaven sent! They ran up and down that hill more than I wanted to count. Of course we took Roque and Opie with us, and Andrina chased after them to her hearts content. We found the dogs LOVE snowballs, and after getting them would carry them off to be torn apart. I loved watching that.

After they played to their hearts content we headed back to Grandma B's house for some hot cocoa. YUM. I swear, it can come out of a canister, packet or what have you... my mother makes some good cocoa. You should try her home made stuff. She is amazing.

I really love those girls. I love being around them as much as I can, and I can't wait for little Axel to join the fun! The downside, being around them makes me miss my other nieces (Nelyana, Zaniyah, and Annabelle) so much more. I think they should all move here, we can live on the property dad has for us, we can call it "Braman Row" and be able to see each other all the time. And of course, live happily ever after.
It sounds good to me.

I shouldn't be awake right now.
Really.
It's 3:15 am.

Good Grief.
Good Night.

Cinema Ballroom

2011-02-15T20:30:00.000-08:00

You are going to love this place.

I do, so very much.

The date is coming up so soon! 5 months, 14 days, and 17 hours!

CRAP!

Over by the "bar".. where the tables will be set up

View of the second floor balcony.

The back wall (with mirrors) and the red wall will be covered in fabric as well.

The bar area..

Upstairs behind the wall of mirrors.

This red room will be a kid room the the families kids..

The balcony back room and view.

The drapes along the far wall will be closed.

Balcony

Where part of the tables/ chairs will be set up

Wall of curtains. I LOVE IT.

outside!

I cannot wait until the day comes. Its going to be so pretty and amazing.

♥

5 Months 28 Days 11 Hours

2011-02-02T02:27:00.000-08:00

I have lots to do, and not a lot of motivation. There are lots of decision, details and money that has to happen in the next little bit. 5 months is not a long time at all. Heck 5 months ago we got engaged and that seems like just yesterday. I'm freaking out just a bit. I have a guest list made up, hopefully no one was forgotten. Invitations have to be made and sent out pretty soon, and I have not even started. When does it start to get warm? Because we still have to take engagement pictures and Andrew doesn't do well with taking pictures in the cold, we tried. I need to win the lottery.

The night shift is kicking my butt. Mostly on my days off. Don't get me wrong, I really like not having to be at work every single day, but my sleep schedule needs overhauling. I should have gotten up today at like noon so I could sleep at night, but I didn't. I dragged myself out of bed at 3:40 and now I am wide awake at 4:20 AM. Sick. Really I should be scouring over websites for caterers, Photographers, Florists, and trying to find somewhere to do our invites through. Procrastination. I am a pro. Too bad this is one thing that will go very badly if I do just procrastinate. I need a game plan, or a free wedding planner. Where is David Tutera when I need him?

So long, I am off to plan a wedding.

And these, well they are for my enjoyment.

But you can enjoy them as well.

♥

It's official! We have a date!!

2011-01-26T22:13:00.000-08:00

After searching a million places online, picking a handful that met our criteria, and then numerous trips to the cities to look at venues ( hold onto your britches here..) we have finally decided on a date AND a place. Shocked the pants right off me I can assure you that! It all happened within minutes. About a week ago i had emailed the coordinator for the venue inquiring about some dates that were available. And as of today had still not heard back from her. A little annoyed i called and asked to whoever i was talking to to just tell me. I got three dates, looked at what worked for us, and picked! Literally all happened within about 10 minutes, which if you know me, is very rare. I hate deciding on things.

Are you ready?

Save this date! Black it out! Don't allow anything else to happen on that day. Ok?

The date is:
Saturday, July 30,2011

The venue: Cinema Ballroom in St. Paul mn! Be there!!

A change.

2011-01-15T01:39:00.000-08:00

I'm a sap for the tear jerking chick flicks.
Not just for the love story.
But for what it reminds me.

Life is short, and oh so precious.

True Love is stronger than anything, intense and everlasting.

Remember only the good.

I feel like I should watch these types of movies everyday, at least one. So as to remind myself that I should be living in the moment, enjoying every second, and everyone in it. I know.. it sounds so cheesy, and unrealistic. But what else is there? What is the point of having a bad day? What's the point in trying to have more than someone else, to be better then them.

My goal this year is to find good in everyday, and to focus on that. To not say or dwell on the negative thoughts or feelings. To find love in everything.

Life is so very precious and can change in an instant.. And I for one no longer want regrets.

Wishing, and hoping, and dreaming, and praying...

2010-12-28T19:46:00.000-08:00

I wish my dear Meister was home tonight.

Then I would be able to show him all the things I bought today for the wedding...

well the bridesmaids.

He could also help me pack.

But most of all. I could see him.

I hate his overnight shifts.

I Hate...

2010-12-27T10:58:00.000-08:00

School loans
Searching for a venue
Bitter cold
Money
Slushy snow
Early mornings
My messy apartment
Job market
Rude people
Styling my hair
Bills
Movie theaters

..............

Not knowing what is to come.

Opie's is 1!

2010-12-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

Baby Opie

Big girl Opie!

Call me lame, or crazy, I really don't care.

I made a cake for Opie's 1st birthday! 

Technically her birthday is tomorrow (12/10/2010), but Andrew and I work

so we celebrated today!

I found this really awesome recipe online and they gobbled it up!

I carved the 1 from a carrot! And enjoyed every minute of it!

It smelled so very good, but I was not about to try it!

*****

And of course I bought them stockings!

Andrew and I don't really do our own stockings yet, even though I REALLY want to.

So I spoiled my dogs.

Get over it. You know you wish you were so lucky.

Please oh Please!

2010-12-09T13:34:00.000-08:00

Dear Michael Buble,

Please come sing at my wedding.

For free.

Love,

Audrey

Venue

2010-11-21T14:40:00.000-08:00

I found somewhere I like.

Correction.

KIM DUKE found somewhere I like.

Actually I LOVE it.

It's called "Cinema Ballroom"
The building used to be an old movie theater, and has been turned into a Ballroom and Salsa dance hall.

It is so awesome.

Part of the balcony and Reception area- which will look VERY different.

Overlooking the Dance/ Reception floor

Receiving room/Kids room.

Of course the room will look completely different.

I love this place!

Dreaming of a white Christmas

2010-11-17T08:27:00.000-08:00

2010 tree.

Red/silver

I know its not even Thanksgiving yet, but I frankly don't care.

I love Christmas and I want to be able to enjoy it as long as possible.

I wish I had more decorations, but in time I will.

And, it can snow now.

I mean really snow.

But just once.

I have Christmas off this year!

I better not be sick.

Last year I had to work, and ended up having to call in sick.

Christmas with the Meisters was not very enjoyable for me last year.

I hardly remember it.

This year better be more enjoyable.

I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and get to spend it with those you love.

♥

Wedding Blues

2010-11-06T17:35:00.000-07:00

So. Who wants to plan our wedding?! You
can for free!!

I don't like the decisions I have to make
right now.

I don't want to have to weed through a thousand venues to find one that is a decent
price,

AND what I am looking for.

I don't want to choose the colors, I don't
want to choose the center pieces.

I want to look at photos and say "yes,
that's what I want, make it happen".

Where is a free designer when I need one?

And I want Michael Buble to sing at
my wedding.

For free.

I'll never stop loving you

2010-10-21T22:51:00.000-07:00

Before & After

I love this ring.

He is so amazing, and did such and amazing job.

The change was slight but made a world of difference.

No more ripped gloves.

No more scratches... well sometimes.

No more not having it.

It's all mine.

so there yah go.

and no,

there is STILL no date set.

♥

October 2, 2010 ♥ 8 years

2010-10-06T18:52:00.000-07:00

It was such a beautiful day, warm when the sun was out.

Once again, I had to have Andrew explain things.

Twins Won!

After the game we tried to figure out what we wanted to do. Since we ate at the game, we decided food was not next. Instead we went to a park near the cities called "Wirth Park" where we went hiking for an hour or so. Inside Wirth Park is a place called "Eloise Butler Wildflower Garden". Inside we walked around enjoying the fall colors.

The sign outside the gate of the wild flower gardens, I thought it was hilarious.

And

Last

but not

least.

While we were in the gardens I got this.

We stopped to sit on the only bench that was in the sun, and chatted about where we should have dinner.

Then he turned to me, and said "I know you have been waiting for this for a long time, I would get down on one knee, but its muddy" , "Will you Marry Me?"

I said yes, of course!

Beautiful isn't it!

Andrew designed it, and did an amazing job. I love it.

The only problem is, the prongs on the outside that make such a beautiful design on the side rip my gloves at work, and scratch people. Including myself.

Friday I give the ring back to D.J. Bitzan so they can fix that little problem.

It has a slight euro shank band which makes it spin on the finger less.

I love it.

There is no date set.

♥

Dream a little dream

2010-09-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

Yep, we are going again!

We have been talking about what to do for our anniversary for a while now, and could not come up with anything. We really wanted to go to Taylor's Falls, but the weather probably wont cooperate with us at all.

We thought about the Renaissance Festival, but we have been there before.

We have not been to the new TWINS stadium, and when we move we may not be able to go.

So, if you have or know of where to get cheap tickets let me know!

*~*~*~*~*~*

AND a VERY Happy Birthday to my beautiful nieces!

Andrina, I cannot believe you are 5! You are such a joy and so fun to be around

Nelyana, 3! I can't believe you are getting so big so fast! Please stay little. It seems that because you are so far away you grow so much faster.

Zaniyah, woo hoo! Your 1! But, same to you. Please, for me just stay that way. You are too cute! And too far away.

And to all three of you:

I am so lucky to be your auntie. I love showing everyone that will look pictures I have of you. You all have such amazing personalities and I can't wait until I can see you all again.. Hopefully all at the same time!

Please stay little.

Love, Auntie Audrey.

Fair

2010-09-16T08:37:00.000-07:00

Once again Andrew and I went to the state fair.

We figured it may be one of the last ones we get to go to since he is having to look for a job out of state.

The day we went was perfect. The morning was a little breezy and it warmed up to a good temp by the after noon. I think we were there for 9 hours-which was a major accomplishment considering I was still gimping around, and Andrew had pinched a nerve in his back the night before.

I don't think I could ever get tired of the state fair. I LOVE the people watching, and the awful-for-you-but-so-good food. My goal this year was to actually eat something from a stick. Did I? Nope! I was going to get in line, but it was a long long line. And I just settled for something else. I can't quite remember everything we ate there, but we did come home with an awesome handmade vase from Poland-on sale- because that's how I shop!

After walking for hours we decided to sit for a while in the arena. Stinky. I wanted to see a horse show, but we were not sure if we came on the wrong day, and we didn't want to sit through the stinky cow part. We sat for as long as we could, and left. People came in there eating and drinking. EWW. The smell that fills that place is FLOATING COW POOP. And your eating it.

YUM.

This is what happens every time we get into the car, however long/short the drive.

He is kinda like a baby, in the sense that if I want him to nap, I put him in the passenger seat and go for a drive. I think he has even fallen asleep on the way to the grocery store.

I love that boy.

By the time we got home my feet were soo dirty. I wore my lovely comfortable Chacos (if you don't have a pair you are truly missing out) and I think my feet attracted all the dirt from the fair.

I hope we are here next year to go, if not wherever we move better have something on a stick!

In my mind we can conquer the world

2010-08-24T08:58:00.000-07:00

Today is so beautiful.

The wind is blowing a wonderful cool wind in through my open windows and doors.

I just wish we had more like these.

I am not a big fan of summer, or winter.

I love fall, and spring. But mostly fall.

Andrew and I have been pondering what we should do for our 8 year anniversary.

(yes, it is a month and a half away)

We thought about flying, driving, or taking a train to Chicago.

Money doesn't approve of that.

So in state it is.

Taylors Falls has been catching our eye lately and we are trying to decide what to do.

I personally would love to go there the night before, or early that morning, and canoe down the river 2-3 hours, then walk around enjoying the day. Finishing off with a dinner cruise on the river.

Sounds and looks lovely right?

Andrew doesn't agree.

Well, he does.. to a point.

His problem is the weather.

We have no way to know if it will be nice enough to enjoy a canoe trip in the beginning of October.

Have you been on the river that late in the year?

Is it FREEZING?

The cruise isn't the problem at all, in fact I hope the leaves are changing around that time.

It's really my favorite time of year.

I just don't know what to do.

Were not set on this quite yet. We love exploring MN and would love to know of anywhere else that we could enjoy the wonderful outdoors without pitching a tent and not showering. Looking more for a day trip.

I would LOVE your suggestions.

Keep in mind we are not looking to go to Duluth or the Cities.

Been there,

done that.

Meet Roque

2010-08-10T14:08:00.000-07:00

We had planned to get Miss Opie a boyfriend after winter, making whoever we bought about a year younger than her. The age difference wasn't too big of a deal. They are just dogs.

That was our plan until one day when we decided to go for a walk around the lake with Opie.

A girl nearly ran up to us asking us if we had gotten her from the pet store.

Actually she said HIM..

apparently she was there yesterday and there was a dog that looked just like Opie, and she had thought we had bought him.

Well hearing that there was another long haired miniature daschund in St. Cloud perked up my ears!

It is so hard to find them, when we looked online before we had Opie, the only ones for sale were over 75 miles away.

I BEGGED Andrew to go with me to the pet store.

and I won :)

My friend and coworker Ashley was with me, and Andrew had a friend from work with him as well.

At first the girl working there (a complete idiot) told us that the only daschunds they had were red short haired. We almost walked away when Andrew found him against another wall.

He was soo adorable!

They thought he was ugly.

And made him over 1/2 off.

Their mistake.

We got a killer deal for him.

And he is super super sweet.

Opie likes him.

But hates him at the same time.

Mostly when we are giving him attention.

Thank goodness we didn't wait a year! I can't imagine how she would have been then!

He is soo tiny!

On our way to Milaca.

Please note the ADORABLE pink bows I made Opie.

(everyone always thinks she is a boy.. even with the pink collar)

She really wants nothing to do with him sometimes.

She'll come around.

his face is much darker than hers- makes him look like a boy

She hated this. Each time we tried to make them lay next to each other she would get up and run away.

At this point I think she was so tired she just gave up.

After Sleeping 8 hours he slept 3 more.

This little guys sleeps alll the time.

He loves to cuddle.

So do I.

******

FOOT UPDATE

In a boot now!

the day after getting that awful cast I was having a hard time walking and pain in my ankle.

I called, they probably thought I was whining.

I got my way though.

AND

When they took off the cast I asked to see it, looked inside and found a ripple of cast.

These guys rock.

But I still won.

We just can't win.

2010-08-03T08:38:00.000-07:00

Yes, this is cast #3

We went in thinking I would be walking out with a boot. WELL I guess boots are not as fitted and would cause rubbing on the back of my heel. Which apparently is bad news.

They fit me with a walking cast.

This one is heavier.

AND

They had to stretch out my foot/tendon.

Not a good feeling.

Wanna see the incision?

Okay.

Very pretty isn't it?

Looks the same as last time.

The big black lines are marker.

I like to think that they drew them before, and used them to make sure I was put back together right.

It still looks a little swollen to me.

My right leg is smaller in size then my left.

But the left will get its chance to thin out, just give me a few weeks.

The difference was a little astonishing.

The doctor said I could go back to work in about a week.

Then I have to work for 2 weeks to get my vacation.

That's right,

I was 80 hours short.

This whole process has taken longer than we anticipated.

I am not loving it at all.

AND

on top of this

Duluth hired someone else.

Its like we aren't going to get a break at all.

Even though we really need one.

School loans are coming due soon.

The next semester starts soon.

Since Andrew isn't a student at SCSU he would have to be hired on as "staff" in order to keep working with his professor. That would mean that they would have to pay him a lot of money. Which they don't want to do.

We are frustrated and a little angry.

He sent his transcript to the lady in Duluth 3 different times, the last being about a week ago.

Guess who emailed him today asking for the same thing.

AND

Not but 5 minutes after sending it he finds out that they have already filled the position.

Anger pretty much describes how we are feeling today.

Numb does as well.

All other Histotechnician jobs are out of state, at least the ones with the most potential.

Opie of course is oblivious to everything.

I wish I was her.

your love is all I need

2010-07-31T22:00:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we FINALLY went to see the Gross' new house!

I wish I would have gotten a picture of Adella's reaction to my cast, since she herself had just gotten out of one a few months ago.

Concern, fear, and utter distaste. She wanted nothing to do with it for quite a while.

Opie wasn't allowed inside.

A. They don't allow dogs

B. She might piddle

C. She may chew on something

So we smuggled her in inside a large purse of mine, and stuck her in the garage.

It went great until she barked at the neighbor, so we brought her in and threw a little something on her.

Adella's diaper.

She was so mad at me.

Andrina loved it.

She was convinced she could see Opie "going to the bathroom" in her diaper.

Adella couldn't figure out what the heck her diaper was doing on the dog.

And it gave us all a laugh.

Adorable isn't it!

******

Tuesday I get my cast off.

I can't tell you how excited I am.

The incision has been itching for the last 3 days.

At least with the other spots that itched they would go away.

This one is lasting all day.

I don't want to know what my leg hairs will look like.

3 weeks is a long time to go without shaving.

I made sure to shave the day of the surgery.

Right now I imagine its a jungle

I may need to bust out a weed whip.

Nice picture in your head huh?

At this point in the game I REALLY don't want to get the other one done AT ALL.

In fact, the thought of it makes me want to crawl in a hole.

I would love to tell the doctor that I was kidding, and the other one is fine.

Too bad he has already seen the x-ray.

At least I will have two weeks of working between the two.

But

I REALLY don't want to go under anesthesia again.

I hated waking up.

My eye lids would not stay open, even though I really wanted them to.

I almost cut my cast off last night.

In fact I think I begged Andrew to help me.

I told him we would super glue it back on when we go to the doctor.

He didn't buy it.

Showering, Opie, and a Tree.

2010-07-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

Not an easy thing when you have a cast. I have this great thing called a "Shower Bag".

Saved my life.

When we went in for a cast, I noticed one of the drawers was marked as such.

I had to have one.

The nurse just said they would bill my insurance.
awesome.

Basically there is a hole at the top where you put your foot into.

It some how stretches out around your cast, and tightens around your leg.

Best invention EVER.

well, as well as the shower chair.

(I just may keep that forever)

The Bag

Apparently you can swim with these?! You just have to let out all the air.

The little black squares are grippers..

It's far too big.. Kinda a "one size fits all" - ADULTS

I think you could fit a small child in there.

Really.

****

Lately Miss Opie and I have had some time to bond.

And play.

For my dear sister Emma who is freaking out at this point.

The toy is clean.

It was just washed.

simmer.

(Love you!)

We have spent many hours playing fetch and sleeping.

She has been an awesome little entertainer these few weeks.

Too bad she can't get me things.

We should work on that.

Maybe someday she will be able to make me lunch.

****

There has been all sorts of construction going on around Lake George.

I have not had a problem with it until today.

You see, there is this tree.

Its HUGE in every sense of the word.

I would say its a good hundred + years old.

They are cutting it down.

It's so sad.

I would love to have petitioned in some way,

anything short of chaining myself to that tree.

But I didn't.

It wouldn't have helped.

Its so old.

We have had to watch it get torn down limb by limb.

There is still the trunk and the branches off to the right.

It should be gone by tomorrow.

It makes me angry and sad all at the same time.

I am not considered a "tree hugger" in any sorts.

I just find it completely frustrating that they cannot work around the TWO FEET that the tree sticks out at the bottom. The TWO FEET that is "in the way" to make a road.

There used to be a road there, before it was torn up. And I think it was just fine.

If any of you have seen the house we live in, you know it is HUGE all by itself.

The tree is like our house stacked on its self 2 1/2 times.

Am I too worked up about this?

I just feel it is wrong to get rid of something that has been around for so long.

The itching continues

2010-07-23T21:34:00.000-07:00

Well no boot, I have a cast.

I don't love it at all.

I like the colors,

and that's about it.

I begged the doctor to just put me in a boot.

I even said I would pinkie SWEAR I wouldn't walk on it.

He didn't want to pinkie swear.

I am stuck in this for two weeks.

My leg still itches, and I can't itch it.

I did however itch it A LOT while the wrap was off.

That was heaven.

my cast

So do you remember how on Toy Story how Andy signed the bottom shoe, or foot of his toys?

Andrew did...

Does this mean he owns me?!

Oh well..

Its hard to tell in the picture but my foot was turned in a little bit when they put the cast on, and some how it was too big. I could fit my fingers past the knuckles inside. We didn't realize it at the time, and went on our way. That night I had some pain on the top of my leg in the shin area. I just figured it was normal and tried to ignore it. The next day I tried elevating it in different positions, ice pack on the heel, toes, back of the knee and on top. I even tried to stuff an ice pack into the large space between my leg and cast. I decided to just call and see if they had any other tricks I could try. The nurse seemed worried and told me that I needed to come in that day. My wonderful mother basically dropped what she was going to do for that day and come to take me there. (she also had to get a Rx from Walgreen's) So we went and they discussed if they should / should not take the cast off and put on another on. I really didn't care what they did, as long as the pain went away, because frankly I wanted to chop my leg off.

My Second Cast

They decided that the only way to get rid of the pain was to take the cast off. Originally I wanted the pink on the first one to be small like this second one.. the girl just didn't get what I was saying. I decided to go with a color, the first one looked too much like a tube sock. I have no pain from this one and I am enjoying the colors. In fact, I even went out and bought new nail polish just to "go" with the cast, not matching colors, just complementing bright colors. I still have yet to have someone sign the cast but I think Andrew will be the first again,

and I am sure it will be just like the first.

As the days go on I think I am getting better at using the crutches, then I nearly fall. I am not graceful, I never have been. But now I have one foot to stand on and two "sticks" assisting me. It's fairly comical to watch, and a little scary. I am slow, and when I am outside, even hotter. At least it's not winter, and I am not trying to do this on ice.... I know your picturing that now. Your welcome for the smile, or the laugh.

Good night.

Recovery

2010-07-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

Two days before surgery I went and got a pedicure.

It was heaven.

And she did such a good job! I love how they look.

The day of surgery they wanted me to remove it. But with the doctors permission I kept it!

Little did I remember or realize they would slather my pretty little toes in iodine.

The white turned yellow and looked awful.

I just took the paint off today,

and honestly I was a little sad.

but

Andrew says I can get them done again...

we shall see!

Left foot.. not cut up yet..

Little yellow looking too...

Right foot.

Lovely isn't it?

I have this beautiful wrap until tomorrow at 8:30.

We get to see what the incision looks like.

I think Andrew is more excited than I am.

I pray they don't put a cast on.

Now a boot, I can handle that.

A boot you can take off to shower, itch and shave.

Cast, not so much.

After tomorrow we may know when the next surgery is.

Or we have to wait another week or two.

I hope not

It's boring here

Well when Andrew is at work and no one is here.

I think even Miss Opie is bored with me.

She wants to go for walks, and well that can't really happen when its just me.

Today she brought her leash into every room I was in. She has never done that before. At first it was really cute, but then I felt really bad. She wants so badly to run around, but lazy ol' me is holding her back.

No wonder she loves Andrew a bit more than me.

My foot itches and I can't itch it.

I may go crazy.

Haglunds Deformity

2010-07-14T07:45:00.000-07:00

Right heel

Left Heel

Tomorrow (Thursday July 15) I am having surgery to correct the "pump bump" on my right heel. They will go in, move my Achilles tendon and grind down the bone. Because they have to move such a large tendon the healing process will take 2-3 weeks, but because I have one on each heel it will take longer. Two weeks after my first surgery I will go in and see how much the right has healed, if the doctor is happy with that one, then I will have surgery on the left.

Exciting eh?

I hope that the first one does not take long to heal, if it does then my 5-6 weeks of recovery

turns into 7-8 LONG weeks.

I can't afford that

From the side it is hard to see how far they really stick out. Let me show you an aerial view..

Sexy huh?

After working at Country Manor for almost a year and wearing tennis shoes for 8 hours+ I started to feel some pain from these little bumps. The only way I can describe how it feels is: Put a marble in the back of your shoes, even a half a marble... And proceed to walk around for 8 hours. In those 8 hours you must include bending, squatting, at at times speed walking. Trust me, my the time you are done you will want to cut your leg off. Its not just pain in the heels, that bone pain can shoot all the way up to your knees. Its lovely.

So now we count down. I have no idea when I am to be there tomorrow. They will call me some time today and tell me when to get my sorry butt in there.

I hope its not early.

I have never had surgery, or been put under.

I am not looking forward to that, or anything else for that matter.

Your more than welcome to come hang out with me during those weeks off!

You have my number.

*for more information on Haglunds click on the title "Haglunds Deformity"

SCSU Graduation

2010-07-13T07:22:00.000-07:00

The excited spectators!

I didn't get a picture of Andrews parents or Grandma Judy, but they were there!

There were so many people stuffed into that arena. I would say about 100 were standing. I guess, like us, they didn't follow the "bring only 6 people" rule. Oh well! Unfortunately we were told not to cheer when our graduate was called. Josh and I really wanted to, but decided not to after a look from mom!

After all the grads came in we began searching for Andrew. And when everybody looks like the same little dot, its a difficult task. But mom actually found him first! After that I tired to get close up shots, I only got one good one. the bottom left pictures are of the "practice" arena where the grads got into line and then walked into the bigger arena. No, we did not find Andrew in that mess of people.

After reuniting with my grad we took some pictures.. Josh decided that he was just going to take some random ones, and well they turned out pretty good! I love most candid shots, and the bottom right is my favorite!

a look back at Easter

2010-07-09T12:51:00.000-07:00

Just going through pictures and I realized I never put up the few pictures I have of Easter!

Enjoy!

It was fairly chilly here in MN on Easter, even Opie had to bundle up. You know she looks so cute in that little sweater! Andrina and Bethany started a little competition to see who could gather the most eggs. I think we all helped Andrina win! Apparently Easter is Bethany's favorite holiday and she really wanted to hunt out those eggs. Andrew and I had fun trying to come up with different eggs. I think we managed that! Andrina had some stickers and gave me the "opie" one, requesting that I make one for opie. I of course obliged! I think the blue one is my favorite. Rubber bands. I will be using that method again!

I can feel your heartbeat for a thousand miles.

2010-07-08T09:02:00.000-07:00

Isn't he good looking!

Once again my wonderful sister Emma let us use here and her skills for pictures! I think she did such an amazing job, once again! Those of you who know Andrew like we do, you know he hates to have his picture taken. And that it is really hard to get him to smile and look relaxed. I figure practice makes perfect and that slowly he will get better! We did get quite a few really awesome shots!

Since it was a Sunday and we were all dressed up anyway she took a few shots of us... awww! I have said this a thousand times, I think she should start her own business. I would help! I already advertise for you Em!

Here are more beautiful pictures!

Awesome you say? She can do some for you! Theses are just plain ol' flowers. Imagine what she can do with your face! Just call her..

Prices subject to change according to your status in her family.

Happy picturing!

We should never gamble

2010-07-07T09:44:00.000-07:00

The Mayo is no longer an option.

Seems they are not looking for a histologist.

The search is on

Nothing worth anything ever goes down easy.

2010-07-06T07:40:00.000-07:00

I love this boy.

And

I am so proud of him!

(that sounds like I am his mother!)

But I am.

He has graduated!

There was a time we both thought that his schooling would never, EVER end.

Now that he is done with school the job hunting has begun.

It may be stupid, and maybe a little reckless, but we are banking it all on one place.

Rochester.

On June 26th he submitted his application to the Mayo. We are still waiting. Impatiently.

There is a glimmer of hope though! The other day Heiko Schoenfuss (an old professor of Andrews, and current boss) told Andrew that he got an email from the Mayo asking Heiko if they could somehow set up a system where he "grooms" people to work there. Little to they know he has already been doing that! Yesterday Heiko sent an email back telling them about Mr. Meister, and forwarding on his application to those who can get him hired there.

My fingers, toes, and eyeballs are crossed.

And the anticipation is killing me.

Andrew seems calm, me on the other hand am a wreak waiting for a call.

All the prayers and finger crossing you can offer are more than welcome.

Opie "Optimus Prime"

2010-04-08T07:40:00.000-07:00

Miss Opie

Her little self!

She is adorable isn't she? This little dog stole my heart the first time I saw her.. Andrew really loves Dachshunds and I really like long haired dogs. Well this little one was the best of both worlds! I was sold because of her ears. I really love those things. The first time I held her she licked my chin and put her head down on my shoulder..again I was sold! She really has been the best dog ever. She loves to cuddle on both of us. Last night while watching a movie she would not settle down until some part of her was touching both of us.. very odd.. but at least she doesn't have a favorite! Today I have seen the scared side of her. The house next door is getting re-shingled and the noise scares her, along with the bunch of men out there working. At 7 I took her out and she immediately ran back to the door. I had to physically stand between her and the guys before she would do her business. The other times I took her out today she ran to the furthest part of the lawn, paws on the edge, and went again. Its been really funny to see her freak out like this, other than the fact that she wont eat while all this is going on. Because of this little dog I have been outside more than not this spring. And to be honest, I'm loving it. Andrew and I used to go on walks, at least around the lake, at least once a day, and now days I don't see much of Andrew due to the end of school coming so quickly. (of which we are all very excited for!) If you have not met Opie yet we would love to see you, so get on over here.

Little Miss Adella

2010-02-27T11:18:00.000-08:00

First off I would like to wish this cute little bug Happy 1st Birthday! We Love You!

By far the cutest little bum in the world!
I could hardly get her to hold still, then Grandma Gross gave her mini M&Ms..

The best cake ever! Em, you did such a good job!

The Adorable hats Emma made!

The little freak!

Andrina used to do this when she was little, never thought it would something each Gross child would share! I guess we are all just little freaks-in our own little freak show!

again,

Happy Birthday little one!

Yes, I am that far behind!

2010-02-15T09:07:00.000-08:00

Princeton Zoo, and Milaca Corn maze!

My dad was picking up some cows from a farmer in Princeton and we decided to tag along!

Little did we know we where visiting the local zoo! They had 4 wallaby's, Canadian swans, and two types of deer! We have had a baby deer at my parents house before, but not as many, and not just hanging out with us. It was so awesome! They had all sorts of other animals.. too many to count! I thought it was funny to see Kevin trying to pet the very deer he shoots at!

We later stole Andrina and took her to the corn maze in Milaca. We decided to do the longest and most difficult maze, which only took us about 35 minutes. When we got out of the maze they had a small "petting zoo" and jumper castles. Andrina immediately went jumping, it was the idea of riding the horse drawn wagon that got her outta there.

There was a small tent that had a corn box.. we must have spent a half hour in there and came out with corn hiding everywhere. Once Andrew showed Andrina that corn flying through the air was funny, she just couldn't stop!

more corn...

Petting zoo, and the wagon ride...

State Fair 2009

I can't even seem to remember why I have not posted these pictures yet. We had such a blast at the state fair last year. In fact I am really looking forward to going again this year! If you are interested in going, let us know! Just the two of us have gone the past two years, and as much as we enjoy each others company.. we would love someone else to talk to! I miss those warm days, smell of good fair food, and the crowds! I don't think summer can come fast enough this year!

Lets take a walk

2010-02-14T21:24:00.000-08:00

Munsinger Gardens

During the summer Andrew and I try to get to the gardens as often as possible. When I was working at US Bank we would meet for lunch and walk through the gardens after having a quick picnic lunch. Now we try to go whenever its an enjoyable day out. At this time I was trying my hand out at nature pictures. My favorite is the rose with the dew drops. Looking at it now with it being so cold makes me so excited for summer! This summer we will have to try to make it there a bit more, since we will be moving sometime this year. I think the gardens being so close and the lake being just out my back door is what I will miss the most.

Great River Road

For Andrew's birthday I decided to take him to see Minnesota. We decided to take the Great River Road and see where it leads us. I found out while mapping our little trip that this road starts at the very tip top of the Mississippi and travels all the way to the ocean.. part of the trip is scenic while part is highway. We traveled through a part of the cities that was new to the both of us. Until we reached Psycho Susie's, where we had such an amazing BBQ pizza with my family at Christmas. Andrew had been craving it for so long, and so we decided to meet up with a few friends of his from Brooklyn Park and go there for dinner.

Before we went to dinner we had to reach our destination. We decided to travel into Wisconsin and visit Willow Falls. At first we took the wrong path and went to a Damn a ways up the river from the actual falls. When we found the right path we where amazed at the beauty of the falls. It was cold enough that the water seeping out of the side of the hill had little icicles, but warm enough that while walking we didn't freeze our hind ends off.

St. Croix River

Andrew has a friend from state that has peaked his interest in fishing, fly fishing to be exact. One of my days off they planned to fly fish in the St. Croix. I decided to tag along and get some reading in.. as well as taking in the beautiful fall colors. It was a bit cold, but I brought a blanket and bundled up while they fished a while. When I got cold I would take the hike to the car and back down. On my warming trips I was able to get these beautiful photos. One of my favorite things about living in Minnesota is the amazing colors fall brings.

October 2, 2009 ♥ 7 years

2010-02-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

I know in October I posted about our 7 year anniversary, well here are the photos! We had such a good time! We ate Dome dogs and said a far well to the dome with the Twins. It wasn't the last game there, but it was fan appreciation week and they had a lot of giveaways and acknowledgements to make. This was the first professional game I have ever been to.. And I couldn't get enough of it! I asked Andrew so many dang questions I am sure he grew tired of it! I have never been a sports buff, or even slightly interested.. and now I am hooked. It has taken me a while, but I finally can follow a game.. baseball AND football! I feel so smart! We where fortunate to sit around some pretty funny people, and spent most of the evening laughing at something they had to say-well yell- at the other team. We had pretty amazing seats, for the price I paid, and thoroughly enjoyed everything about it. I am thinking of making this a tradition.. Twins game on our anniversary. Just a thought!

525,600 minutes

2010-01-25T09:42:00.000-08:00

This year should be a good one! No new resolutions, just a lot of hope for what is to come. This May Andrew is scheduled to graduate with a degree in General Biology. With him graduating comes moving! I can't wait to move out of our small apartment. When we first moved in it was perfect. We didn't have much crap.. but now we do and well.. I have no place to put all the crap and well I am ready for a bigger place. We have no idea where we will be moving or where we will be working. I am waiting for Andrew to find himself a job, then I will find one, and hopefully we will be able to find an apartment close to one of those places. I am very excited and anxious about the future.. but I am ready for it.

I am currently liking my job very much. I don't know that I can ever say I LOVE a job.. I never like to be tied down or have to be somewhere. I never like to HAVE to go to work, and I think wherever I work I may always feel that way. I will go to work, sure, but I hate leaving home and leaving Andrew home when he doesn't have to work. With Andrew's new school schedule we don't have much time to spend together and lately, and when we both have the day off we normally have plans. We will get through it, I just am not enjoying it so much.

For the longest time I have enjoyed anything written by Nicholas Sparks. Every book he writes I snatch up and seem to finish right away. Anyway, he has two new movies coming out these next few months and I cannot tell you how excited I am! Each book that has turned into a movie has not disappointed at all. Message in a Bottle, A Walk to Remember, The Notebook, and now Dear John and The Last Song. I know some people seem to think that movies ruin books, I just think that they are a different take on the book. They have to take a very long book, turn it into a script and then make it only under two hours. Dear John comes out February 5th and I am very much going to be there! I would like to think that it is an early birthday gift to me!

Well I very much should get going. I have to get my laundry folded.. and dinner started. I hope you enjoyed the little inside to my life.. oh so fun!

Freaking Awesome Glasses

2010-01-02T14:52:00.000-08:00

I made Andrew model these, even though he really did not want to. These glasses made the lights stars... I held the glasses up to the lens of my camera, and to my surprise it worked! My mother made this amazing find and we all took our turn enjoying them! There are a second pair that would make the lights little snowmen.. but for some reason I didn't get a hold of them long enough to get a picture. I think that the tree looks amazing with the lights as stars. I just wish they always looked like that. Next year I will have to get a picture with the snowmen.. or from my sister?? Hope you took some with the snowmen!

Best find ever mom!

Christmas Eve

2010-01-02T13:05:00.000-08:00

Braman

Gross

FUN!

I had such and enjoyable Christmas this year. We spent Christmas Eve day at the Bramans.. from 9 AM to Midnight. The day was a blast and many gifts where received. We didn't do a huge Christmas dinner this year, instead we had Navajo tacos-which are the best ever! I think that we should make that a new tradition!

This year Andrina tore through presents like she was on fire! She did take time to ooh and ahh over them, but I think it was still pretty funny to sit back and watch the girl go. She even helped the rest of us get through opening ours so that she could get to hers a little faster. Adella seemed to be obsessed with the wrapping paper and would stick each piece in her mouth before moving on. I think she may have even swallowed some..

I think this Christmas was the most relaxing, even though I was sick. We did however miss the Brinaghs and Sims!

Hope to see you guys next year!

Oh Christmas Tree

2010-01-01T09:21:00.000-08:00

I decided to switch up the tree this year. The last two years we did a light blue and silver tree and I wanted something a little more festive this time around. I found the balls first and then found the beautiful poinsettia ball that I made as the topper for the tree. I also had to find the ribbon to go along with it. Needless to say... I LOVE the tree this year. Not sure if I want to switch it up again next year.. we will see..

So our birds (that we have not named yet) where out one day when she (the darker one) flew into the tree, where he followed. I took a few snapshots and then tried to get them out... but they refused.. so I left them for a while.. I figured that its the closest they would get to being outside. Oh and if you have any good suggestions for names let me know!

Turkey Day!

2009-12-31T10:03:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving this year was spent with the Braman and Gross Families! This year I made pies, rolls and drinks! My pies where not exactly hand made-but they where yummie! Well the apple pie was, but mom made most of it.. I just decorated it :) I made a blueberry pie which ended up all over Adella, thanks to a little help from me! The poor girl never gets to be messy.. so I had to hook her up. My favorite is the up close of her where you can see the blue sprinkle hanging from her hair, as well as all the blueberry she is covered in!

Once again this year we had an amazing meal. Dad is such a good cook, and we never know what kind of seasonings he will use. The turkey tasted fantastic and I believe my mother had a new recipe for stuffing- which was a hit. Every year we bust out mom's china to use for dinner. Each year I am reminded of how beautiful they really are. We go all out and make the place settings formal... small fork, large fork, multiple plates, goblets... one for juice and one for water. I just love the look of the table before we sit down to attack the meal. Also each year we place the ceramic turkey that Dad made in the center of the table. Some thanksgivings he is filled with stuffing, rolls, or other various foods... this year he was empty but was still a beautiful addition to the table. Oh and P.S. Emma, your face looks wonderful above the turkey..

This year I think I was more thankful for traditions more than anything. I love that we do pull out the china, and have a beautiful table set up. It makes Thanksgiving a little more meaningful.

tis the season

2009-12-12T08:54:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas. It's not just the gifts I receive, its the time before. I absolutely love shopping for gifts. If I could afford it I would my hundreds of gifts for everyone. However, I do not enjoy all the people that are making driving so insane! But I guess that comes with the time of year. I really enjoy finding gifts for people that they don't expect. I understand that it is easier to just go out and buy the few things that someone has told you they want.. but where is the joy in that? If I only give you an option for one gift.. then I know what is coming... I always want to be surprised by whats underneath the wrapping paper. I remember one year, when I was little, Bethany and I really wanted those nano pets.. One day when mom was out, Bethany and I found gifts from one of our Aunts. We peeked... and where excited to see it was just what we asked for! But on Christmas morning when we opened them again for the second time.. it was hard to show that same excitement.. we already knew what we got. I guess that we are not good actors because mom knew that we had opened the gift before hand.. or she already knew because she is pretty amazing like that. Anyway I remember feeling so lame for not being able to wait for Christmas morning when I would really by surprised. From then on I have always not wanted to know what I am going to get for gifts. Andrew on the other had wants to know exactly what he is getting. I don't really understand why. I personally think it makes opening gifts up less fun... but that's just my opinion. Am I the strange one?? Who knows. We already have our tree up, well as of a few weeks ago. I really wanted something different this year so I headed out to target to find something new. The last two years I have used light blue and silver on my tree.. the balls where light blue, and I used silver ribbon around the tree, a silver bow at the top, as well as a silver skirt. This year I found red, maroon, and black balls, gold and red ribbon and a poinsettia covered ball. Its adorable. I even picked up an extra thing of lights just to make it oh so much better! I wish I had enough decorations to decorate the whole apartment, but we hardly have room as is so maybe in the next place. I would have decorated outside, but when I did for Halloween our pumpkins got smashed. I didn't want some lame person to come and steal or break something of mine.

Anyway..

This year I am doing Christmas cards.. home-made ones too.. again.. I think, next year, I will be doing the easy ones. I have had even more people added to my list.. and its kinda become overwhelming. sooo please just get used to the stupid purchased ones... okay?

AAAAND back to Christmas! I love this time of year. Call me lame, but I do. I love the lights, the snow, the gifts, the giving, the family traditions, and most of all I still love Santa. That jolly little fat man still makes me smile, and hope that I have been good enough this past year to still get something from him. And as silly as that sounds, get this.. I still want to stand in line, tell him what I want and get a candy cane after... :) I guess there still is a kid in me.. screaming and kicking her feet whenever I walk by and don't jump in line.

I really want to be able to make it to the holidazzle this year. As cold as it may be, I feel like it helps me get into the season.. and unfortunately I feel like I have hardly this year.. and Christmas is almost here. I need to get on that..

well not much I can do about that..

2009-11-15T23:12:00.000-08:00

HAHAHA oh gosh! I didn't realize that the post I have been working on would post as the day that I made them! Now you can tell how long they REALLY sat there. Dang. I thought I would just look amazing and spit out two whole posts in one day! OH well I guess! ENJOY!!!!

This may be the largest blog ever

2009-10-11T19:49:00.000-07:00

I know I know I know..

Yes these are old pictures

Yes I should have gotten them up sooner

Yes I am slow

And YES

here they finally are.

Back when Bethany graduated we went out for dinner. Nelyana was so funny! She had some obsession with ice, sucking it off the table was the highlight of the night! She had Mac N' Cheese and after eating it with her hands she rubbed them down her face, and then produced the cheesiest smile ever! Love it!

We stopped by to visit Grandma and Grandpa's grave. It was a beautiful day, and it was good to have all the Braman girls back together again.

The many faces of us! I love the one with mom and bethany, and well Nelyana is just funny! Adella is always all smiles!

Mall of America! SO much fun!! I think Bethany had more fun than Andrina did on the Blues Clues ride! It took them a while before they could figure out how to go up and down-BUT they had a blast!!

Big Truckin!! I just love how Andrina drives! head out the window.. and horn blaring... of course if she could blare it! Nelyana faces are of course.. CLASSIC!! She should live closer I think..

** HINT - HINT **!!

Nelyana LOVED the train ride! She loved it so much she REFUSED to get off.. temper tantrum and all! I of course HAD to get pictures of the tantrum! Sooo Dang Funny!

AAAAAANNNNDDD the carousel ride! I think we went on it twice?! Nelyana and Andrina love it! I think Bethany did too... or she just got really dizzy...

2009-10-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

We stole Andrina and Adella from Emma while she went to a church function here in St. Cloud. I just love every moment I get to spend with them. Andrina makes each conversation so child-like and funny.. I roll with laughter everytime I am with her. Adella. Gosh she is getting big quick! I just adore that little bundle of chunk! I think we had them for like 5 JOYFUL hours. They really are amazinly good kids. I think the only time Adella cried was when Andrina tried to squeeze the life outta her...

All the many faces of Adella. That girl LOVES to stick out her tongue. The tird picture in on the top row.. I think she looks like Andrina when she was little. While Andrew and Andrina played at the park I sat with Adella trying to keep her from eating everything and ANYTHING. Really. That girl seems to have quick hands. A bug would be walking by, and she would grab it. I finally just let her eat her dress. I figured it was better than bugs.

That girl has GREAT FORM! She ran and ran and ran some more! I am sure it was based on the fact that Andrew was chasing her! She is such an adorable little girl and I just LOVE having her around! Everytime I see her.. if Andrew is not RIGHT next to me.. I get "where's Anew?" - Not a "hello Auye!" or even a "hi" she is always looking for him to play and to tease. Andrew wont admit it, but I think he secretly loves the fact that she asks for him before she asks for me! Oh well! At least she likes him!

ALSO...

These are the BEAUTIFUL fall flowers that Andrew got for me one day! We had run to the store to get some OJ.. we happened to walk by some fall flower arrangements and I casually mentioned how I would love some. After he picked me up from work I walked in to find these beautiful flowers sitting on the table! the rest of the flowers bloomed all around the same time, which made it even better! They have now lasted me for about two weeks! And are still looking beautiful!

7 years

2009-10-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

(Andrew and I at Bethany's prom)

*Quick side note.. for those of you who don't know-when Bethany went to prom she was assisted by her date "walker". Well "walker" was not as fun as she thought and we decided that we would help her out. Andrew and I never went to our schools prom.. but when Bethany needed help.. we were right around the corner ready to help. I grabbed my bridesmaids dress from Kim's wedding and Andrew's suit.. and off we went. Andrew was like her body guard.. while I was the photographer.. each time she went down.. he scooped her back up again.. he was really wonderful and I am glad Bethany had such a fun time!

Almost 8 years ago I met Andrew... on the school bus! Never thought that's where I would meet my boyfriend.. but I guess when you are not looking.. they show up.

The past seven years have been amazing. I wouldn't change anything.. well except for me being such a pain.. but I guess life would be different if certain things played out differently. I can't believe how quickly time has flown by, and I wish I could slow it down. There was a time when I thought I would never turn 18, or 21.. and now.. at 22 I wish I was back in my teens.

Now I know how quickly life can fly by.. so I am trying to live each day -hour by hour... soaking in as much as I can so that it wont pass my by.

To celebrate the 7 years that we have spent enjoying each others company we are going to go to a TWINS game! I really cannot wait! I have been waiting almost a month for this! I was super sneaky this year and got the tickets early, and got twins t-shirts. I just KNEW that I was going to finally be able to surprise him. You see- every time I get a gift for Andrew he somehow figures it out! It drives me NUTS. This time though I had him... OR so I thought. His birthday is October 10th, 8 days from now.. so I have been bugging him to figure out something to do for his birthday. Well a few days ago Andrew picked me up from work. We stopped to get gas, and as the car was filling up he started talking about how he knew what he wanted to do for his birthday-the only thing was... we would have to do it today, on our anniversary. He said he wanted to go to a twins game. Well after he said that my mind was RACING to come up with some reason that we couldn't go. Before I could think of anything I blurted out that the tickets where sold out. He replied with "no they are not, I just checked". WONDERFUL. then I sat there trying to tell him that the plans I told him ( a little white lie) of going to the science museum and hanging out in the cities cannot be changed. He of course could tell I was lying and figured out that I had already purchased tickets. ARGH! I was only a few days away from the big surprise! The one thing that he didn't know was that I had already bought the shirts.. of which I surprised him with this morning. Maybe next year I will be able to surprise him.. maybe... just maybe...

Well I am off to clean the house a bit- then off to the TWINS game! Cannot wait! They better win!! But I hear the dome dogs are good.... so I guess we win no matter what - right?

One step forward

2009-09-20T21:37:00.000-07:00

Bethany's Graduation!!

Congrats Bethany on your graduation! (Finally I know!) I know it seemed like it took forever, but trust me. One day you will wish you were back in school when like was simple! Trust me! But I am very proud of you and you looked beautiful! Love you very much! (oh gosh! I just realized you are the last of the girls to graduate! that means Josh is next! And I am getting old.

(ugh.)

Nina!

2009-09-20T09:14:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Andrina! I can't believe you are already four! It seems like those years have gone by in a blink of an eye! I think I have had the most fun and laughs in the last four years! You always keep us laughing with the funny phrases and faces. I feel so lucky to be your auntie and can't wait to see you again!

We love you very much!

Let's take a moment to go back

2009-09-18T20:27:00.000-07:00

Minnesota Zoo

Were going back to June.

With the last computer I was too scared to start putting photos on it.. I had a feeling I would lose them-so I didn't.

Andrew and I got to talking one day. We were trying to figure out what we were going to do the day that Heidi flew in for Bethany's graduation. We both had the day off, and had to drive his parents to the air port that morning. (they were flying to vegas). We had about 9 hours to kill, and in talking we realized we had never gone to the Minnesota Zoo. Correction. I have never been there. I have been to the Como Zoo plenty of times (mostly because it's free) but never the other. We figured it would take up most of the time, and we could figure out something else (like MOA :) - my favorite place) Other than the expensive admission, and parking prices.. it was overall a wonderful experience. I wouldn't say that I would go again-due to the prices-but we had a blast none-the-less. Plus it was a beautiful day!

It's been a long while..

2009-09-05T22:09:00.000-07:00

I really gotta get on top of updating this thing. I really wish my life was as exciting as everyone elses seems to be! I am constantly "blog-stalking" everyone else.. and loving it. I love reading all the funny stories about day to day life, and how funny little kiddos can be.

Well since my last blog we have returned that computer.. a Dell- of which I will NEVER get one again. The day it came we opened it up and booted it up... and it froze.. Which the other computer did too.. I was starting to think it was just us.. but how in the heck could the wall plug in and internet cord make it freeze?? Well after spending litterally hours and hours on the phone with dell, and getting transferred to a thousand different people we finally just decided to return it. We now have a computer through HP and I HOPE and PRAY that this one is the winner.. because I am really getting sick of not having a computer.

Class is over with now.. I tested out on the uhhhmmmm... July 31 (or 30th) and PASSED!! (WOO HOO!!) I have been working at Country Manor now for a little over a month and really enjoy it. I just wish I would be allowed to just sit and talk with the residents though.... unfortunatly the only time I have to do that is while they are sittin on the pot :) I love to hear the stories and tend to try to steal away a little time to get to know them. I learned the other day that one of the ladies there used to be a welder! Her husband (boyfriend at the time) was in the war and she worked on some ship yard welding the ships! I would have never guessed in a million years that she would have done something like that. I just love to listen to the stories and all the advice and knowledge that they have. There have been a few deaths since I have started.. and at first it was a little hard.. especially because he was such a kind and loving man.. and had such a wonderful family. I am not saying that it will get easier with anyothers that may happen while I am there.. but his being the first will stay with me I'm sure.

Moving on..

There was a day that Andrew and I were watching some television and came across some show about pet rescues. I slowly have become the type of person that never really wants indoor pets.. I don't want to have to deal with the smell, mess or sounds.. I really hate the hair.. I feel like it gets everywhere.. and some almost always ends up in my throat.. or maybe I just think it does. Either way I don't really enjoy it. Well anyway on this show some lady had posters up saying that she had lost her LoveBird. Well she ended up being reunited with this bird. I fell in love. Weird I know. I have always liked birds, and used to have birds.. and I guess that somehow I had forgotten that you can own birds. Andrew and I started talking about what pretty birds they are and how they are Parrots.. just little. (actually they are nicknamed Pocket parrots!) Anyway.. I had kinda forgotten about the birds until we went into the pet store at the mall and they had some! We talked about buying them, but realized how much they would be.. and I kinda just put it outta my mind. Well later that week andrew told me to hurry up and get ready we were going to go buy some! I was super excited and called my mum. She told us about the little pet store in princeton that had rescued pets and gave us the number. We called not expecting them to have any lovebirds-when in fact they had four! so we ended up choosing two, and we think one is a boy while the other is a girl.. It's kinda a crappy photo because its off my phone, but the one in front I think is the boy.. he is more of a lime green with more yellow, while she is more of a darker green. We still have not named them.. so please give us some ideas! I really don't want anything like "mickey & minnie, or bonnie & clyde" you get what I mean. I want them to "go" together .. but still be unique. yah get my drift??

Really not much else has gone on... I really need a maid! anyone know of a good free one?? After working long days and spending my days off with Andrew on "mini vacations" my house seems to never be clean. I could really use a good week off to just clean. :) or a maid (free of course) any takers?

dat dat da daaa!

2009-07-24T16:13:00.000-07:00

Well we have our computer!!
Classes are almost over. Only one more!... and its more of a review day. I am pretty excited about the test now. I can't wait to pass it! I have been orientating lately and I am ready to be on my own! I am working on the rehab wing and really enjoy it more than I thought I would. The first day that I was there was very overwhelming and at first I did not like it. I actually was in tears by the time I got home. Which has never happened to me! I think I had just gotten used to the wing that we had trained on (pioneer village) with our instructor and it was just a lot of change in one day. In rehab people are coming and going and are there for various reasons. At first I thought it would be impossible for me to be able to remember all of the names because of how many people leave.. but because I was running around answering call lights, I was able to learn names-and a little about them! Keep your fingers crossed that I pass!

Everything else is going well. Andrew is still working at Trimpac and actually got a second job working at the school. (St Cloud State University) He is working with his professor creating slides of some fish from Hawaii for his professors research. He really likes it and is actually pretty good at it! Summer is flying by, and I have a ton of pictures that I will post soon!

Just keep waiting

2009-07-07T15:49:00.000-07:00

It's been a while.. and its going to be a bit more. We had our computer, then it broke, then it was fixed, then it broke.. and the cycle went on and on and on.. until we were sick of it. We were able to return the computer and are now in the process of getting a new one. So until then I am stuck trying to use the Internet off of my ipod touch.. which if you have one, or have used one.. you know that it is not the best for blogging! I have a ton of pictures that I want to up load and so much to write! The photos go all the way back to Bethany's graduation. I am not sure when we will have the new computer.. but I know that it is coming with a printer! There will be no need for the trips to the library after that. Class is going good... Clinicals started a while ago and I have enjoyed that. I will be able to start orientation (which means MONEY!) on the 17th if all goes as planned. I was supposed to test out on the 23rd, but because they were so full they gave our class (of 10 people) our own day.. the 30th. Hopefully I will be able to pass the test. So far I have done very well on all the quizzes that my instructor has given - only missed one question total! anyway - by the time that is done I will hopefully a computer!

changes changes changes

2009-06-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

A week ago (May 20th) I had an interview set up wiht Country Manor Health Campus. I was interviewing for a CNA position where country manor would be paying for the class. I had to wait for the results of the background check before I knew if I got into the class-which if you get into the class you are hired. On Friday I recieved a call from the lady I interviewed with and found out that I got into the class! I am so very excited for this. This is just one step closer to where I want to be. -which is either a Radiology Tech or Ultrasound Tech. When I left US Bank the job that I was going to was only going to be a "stepping stone" to the CNA class. It was something that was going to be very temporary. The hours were more flexible than US Banks. Well I was going to be working and taking the class, and hopefully having some time to spend with family and Andrew. Well now I don't have to worry about work! I was let go from MBP today. At first I was worried about how bills were going to be taken care of, I was never upset about losing the job. In fact I was unhappy with where I was working at the time. Before I worked there I did not know about what went on there and how it was run-I wont go into it on here but there were many things I did not feel right about. So needless to say I was elated when I found out I got the job at Country Manor. I am actually really grateful that I don't have to try to do both. I honestly don't know how Andrew can go to school full time, and get nearly 40 hours at work. He is truly better than I am. Now I can focus on the class and make sure that I pass the test at the end-or else I wont be working there!

So many changes are going on-But all of them are good!

CORRECTION

2009-04-03T06:36:00.000-07:00

its been 5 years.. I am a little off :)

Robert Jennings Reimer

2009-04-02T07:25:00.000-07:00

Last night I couldn't sleep.. so I began reading Grandpa Bobs journal that Uncle Todd made copies of. First off, thank you so much for making those.. I learned so much about Grandpa, and Grandma. He has inspired me to be better at keeping a journal... one that is not online. I love this picture of the two of them. They both were so happy in their life. And what an amazing life that was! Grandpa loved Grandma so very much... and I think he made sure she knew that everyday. He often mentioned how getting married to her was the smartest thing he ever did and that every trip they took was another honeymoon. What a wonderful man to have been married to! I also found that he recorded their story on cassette of which.. if any one knows where they are I would love to hear. After 6 plus years (due to the fact that ALS took his voice first) I have found I cannot remember the sound of his voice. I remember, even while he was sick and unable to speak, he would sit and watch M*A*S*H*. I imagine he knew every episode from beginning to end. I used to sit with him while he watched it.. even before he was sick.. and he would always tap your leg, point at the screen.. and laugh. That laugh of his was enough to make me giggle... and thankfully ALS did not take his ability to laugh. He was generally a quiet man.. and would often tap your leg and point when he wanted you to look at something. I have many memories of riding with him and being tapped on the leg and my attention looking out the window at either a plane, bird or something he thought I should see before we passed by it. Driving.. his favorite pass time. I think if it were physically possible he would have traveled the world via road. It's so sad that they are both gone, but I am sure they are enjoying each others company, as well as Aunt Sandy's and all those that have gone before them. What a welcoming party we will have one day. I am so honored to have had the opportunity to get to know this amazing couple.. and to call them my Grandparents. I just wish the whole world would have been able to get to know them as much as I was able to.

Trans Siberian Orchestra!

2009-01-27T19:54:00.000-08:00

My very last post of the day! Andrew's parents invited us to go with them to see this! And I am so glad they did! We bought our tickets at a seperate time and ended up sitting a little ways away from them .. they had a better view... but ours wasn't bad either! I loved the light shows! At times there was so much going on .. all the lights dancing around it made our heads spin but it was so enjoyable! I think my favorite part was at the end. When two of the guitar players ran from the stage to the other side of the Excel Center and stood on the smaller stage as it was lifted into the air! Andrews favorite was well... the sparkler shower.. it looked pretty awesome! YOU can't really see it but when the guys were lifted there was fire that was shooting out above them. It was so hot we felt it where we were sitting! We were in the middle of the two stages.. It was such a fun and memorable night!

2009-01-27T19:47:00.000-08:00

As we were heading back from the reunion we decided to stop at "Bear Country".. waay fun! I'm sure you can figure out what kind of animals you see here! My favorite little bear was the one that looks like he is smackin his little bear buddy! He is also the one that looks like he is being helped into the hollow log! He was such a cutie! Enjoy!

2009-01-27T19:39:00.000-08:00

Alrighty! These are just a handful of the picutres that were taken while on vacation this past summer at the RJR Family reunion. Lets get to explaining them! First picture is of the view we had off the porch at the campground we stayed at just outside Yellowstone National Park. It was so beautiful and peaceful there.. until the Bramans and Brinaghs showed up! and moving to the right... We drove through Bear Tooth Pass.. and I MUST say what a sight! I will have to create another collage that has some of the amazing views. Anyway at the top of all the mountains we stopped to let the car rest a bit from luggin our rears around. It was insanely windy up there! as you can see from our hair and shirts being slicked back! The enormous rock hill behind us will be talked about in a bit! To the right Andrew and I in front of a beautiful waterfall... yes we know.. we are cute! haha.. Sweet sweet Nelyana and the pouty lip... We were parked waiting for the rest to look at some of the views and Lauren decided to put Nelyana on the dashboard. Now for all of you who are freaking out.. do not worry.. this dashboard was huge. Nelyana hates to be away from Lauren or Chris.. which is understandable ... but come on girl you were a foot away! I just love that little lip! Below Nelyana you will see some Elk! They didn't care that we were there.. they just wanted some food! To the left is a hot spring that was bubbling. It was so awesome to watch it bubble and burp! Next to the burping spring would be the ever so cute Bethany and the ever so tall Joshua! I can't believe how big he has gotten! He is WAY taller then I am! To the left you will see Mount Rushmore. We didn't go in because well by that time we REALLY wanted to just haul butt and get home. Above the men is Nelyana! I was able to steal her for a bit and entertain her with Auntie Bees purse! we were able to snap some really great pictures! To the right of Nelyana is another hot spring. It looked so nice... makes you wanna jump in! Below the men is Ol' Faithful... she took forever to spew! moving to the right.. a buffalo that stopped traffic in Yellowstone.. he was HUGE! To the right of the monster of a buffalo is Andrew and I again! this was also taken at the top of Bear Tooth Pass.. VERY windy and VERRRY cold! To the right of our frozen bodies is the dang cute Nelyana again playing with items from Auntie Bees purse.. I believe she drooled on about everything! Thanks Bee for the entertainment! Below the little drool monster is a wild puppie! haha.. to the left Andrew.. the map king.. and below him.. if you look close enough you will see a chipmunk! To the left is Andrew... now back to the huge hill of rocks.. well Andrew decided he should climb it. By the time he got to the top he was freezing and when I snapped this picture he said the cold wind had made his eyes water! to the left of my crying Andrew would be and Ice burg. It was so strange to see green grass, flowers.. and snow all at the same time! We had such a blast!

Stir crazy in the car!

2009-01-27T19:15:00.000-08:00

This was to and from our family reunion in Montana. We had a very long drive there and back . ( and Andrew and I are SO grateful you let us ride with you mom and dad!) Alright.. Lets get the explainin goin.
First picture.. andrew in the blanket and hat. He HATES getting his picture taken. SO we try to take them as often as possible! this was one of his many attempts at hiding. Really andrew.. just get used to it!
Second picture. (going to the right) Bethany and Andrew.. Honestly don't know the story behind it... but I love the face andrew is making! so funny!
Third picture... all thanks to bethany and her lovely photography skills. Yah probably can't tell but I was fairly stuck. There is only so much room between the seat, a pillow and blanket under my butt and the top of the car.
Bottom left picture... classic bethany! I loved this one. We had so many pictures of this type of pose! She was trying to be the Beast.. from Beauty and The Beast. Oh the things that girl thinks of! Middle bottom. JOSHY! I didnt get many pictures of this little craze. I know Bethany has many on her camera of him cheezin it up. And last but no least the back of the bus. SOOO Dang funny! "Very Special People Inside Please Dive Safely" HAHAHA I want to ride that bus. I hope that next reunion we will all be together squished in the van making more memories and takin crazy picutres. LOVE YOU GUYS!!

2009-01-27T18:52:00.000-08:00

And we're going back!

2009-01-27T18:48:00.000-08:00

This is long and over due! Back in October we decided that for our 6 year Anniversary ( I know SIX years!!!) we would head up to Duluth and spend the day there. I really wanted to see all the beautiful fall colors and see the water, ships and shops. It was such a nice day out! We got there sometime before noon and decided that right away we needed to have Ice Cream! It was a little windy and slightly cold but we ate it anyway! Its becoming a tradition... no matter what the weather is like. ( Although I think next time we will be going when its warm!) After the cold Ice Cream we decide we should see what the aquarium was like. Little dissapointing to be honest. There were a handful of fun fish.. but a bunch of ugly ugly fish. I guess they HAD to be there because they are native to the lake or something like that. They did have some divers go in to feed and clean the tank.. which was pretty entertaining. The fish apparently love when the divers come (who wouldnt! People from the heavens bringing food .. and cleaning!) the fish would let them hug and dance with them. The kids that were there loved it! Right behind where Andrew and I stood watching was another animal.. didnt realize what it was until I stared at it for a while (read the signs audrey.. read the signs.... ) It was an OTTER! he was really cute and I snapped a few of him sleepin. We then decided to walk the paths along the water and down to the light houses. Our day was cut short because we ran out of things to do. Unfortunatly we ended the day early because we ran out of places to stay warm in. Enjoy the pictures!

"We're just ordinary people"

2008-12-03T19:43:00.000-08:00

So Christmas came a little early for me today! I had ordered the bare minerals make-up and it came today! I didn't even know it had come and andrew was at work. Well he had hid it and then when he got back from work he showed me where it was... I had been home with it allll day! rude, but cute. I can't wait until tomorrow when I get to beautify myself.

I start my new job on monday. I am so super super excited. Its so crazy that I am start a new life... not only the new job, but I get a discount at the fitness center that is in the same building.. so here comes a hot new audrey! Also *drum roll please......... * I am going to start taking classes.. for real! its going to be so new, crazy and exciting. I will only be taking a few classes at a time.. but still.. its something! I can't afford to go full time.. I am not rich. At least not yet. :)

again, not a long blog.. but informational! (my life really is that lame.. only two highlights... ) loves and hugs, Audg

Thank You Emma!!

2008-11-28T19:36:00.000-08:00

I really want to thank you for helping me out with my blog. Also for taking the time to do our christmas pictures. There are so many good ones to choose from and again, you do such an amazing job. Like I have said before.. you should start your own business. No lie. Oh and how is your shoe? still frozen?? Love you!

HELP!

2008-10-05T10:30:00.000-07:00

So I tried to use the website I stole from Heidi's page.. and well its not working for me! I even read the directions and I cant get it to work. The most I have gotten is the background I want.. but then it doesnt show my blogs!

The GREAT Minnesota Get-Together!

2008-09-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

MINNESOTA STATE FAIR!

A few weeks ago Andrew surprised me with a trip to the State Fair! I really wanted to go. Being as it was the last weekend we wern't sure if it was going to be busy... Turns out it was the busiest day of the year! We left without eating breakfast at 9:00 in the morning and drove down to the free parking that they have scattered all of the place where we rode a bus to the mass of people. I spoke with Heidi before we got there and she told me that I had to tell her everything we ate. Well I had a better idea! I would show you! ENJOY! ( Hope your not hungry after this! I know I wasn't!)We started out in a huge crowd.. this is just one of many pictures I have of the people.
Alright this was breakfast. I know.. let me explain. Andrew had asked me when we walked in if I had ever had a foot long hot dog. I hadn't... needless to say he was shocked. So thus the reason we had that very first.
This was just half the footlong and its a bit bigger then a regular hot dog. (After this we didn't eat until 4 because we were so full)
Kettle Corn.. for those of you that are like me and just LOVE this.. you would have enjoyed watching it being popped. It gets to a point were the man making it has to hide behind his giant rimmed hat to avoid the burning hot flying pop corn. They made us stand at least 5 feet back... oh was it good.. even if we just had a small sample.

Our next meal... pop corn chicken..strawberry lemonade and greenapple pop. YUM!
Unfortunatly I didn't get a picture of the actual food.. but this was such a good Gyro VERY hot though!
Also not pictured is the endless drinks and malts that we had... it was a VERY hot day! We spent most of it walking around and watching people. We saw some of the most interesting people there! At one booth you could have your hair done up in some wacked up color and style... here are some of the cool kids..
Another awesome item was the inside golfer ... I wanted it! You just pull the trigger with your finger and the mini golfer pulls back, when your release he swings and the mini balls go flying! Its AWESOME!
Dad This one is for you! I saw this and HAD to take a picture because you have this too! I don't think the guy was too happy that I took this picture..
And finally us at the end of the day.. Still happy after wandering around forever! I know you are probably thinking why I didnt have thousands of pictures of something on a stick... well we didn't eat anything on a stick.. Next year I promise... EVERTHING they have on a stick.. you will see..
LOVES!

Warm summer days..

2008-04-27T15:39:00.000-07:00

Oh those fun summer days when we could walk around without a sweater or coat... where are you?!? The weather here has been so crazy! We have had days where it has been close to 70 degrees.... 70 DEGREES!! Can you believe that! And now the past few days have been TERRIBLE.. at least in my eyes... On saturday I woke up and looked outside, low and behold... there was snow. Its like it just doesn't want to go away. I think that a majority of the months here are filled with that horrible horrible snow. All I wanted to do this weekend was go outside to walk, picnic.. or just do whatever! Not be cooped up in the house all day loooong. So snow on saturday and sun with cold winds today. What a glorious weekend! It was to the point today that it was a "sun shower" of snow.. Come on spring!! HURRY UP AND GET HERE! I am really done with the winter coats, hats and gloves... I even made a song..... * SNOW SNOW GO AWAY PLEASE COME BACK NEEEEVER... DONT COME TODAY, BECAUSE IM NOT READY TO SAY GOOOOODBYE TO THOSE GOLDEN RAYS OF SUNSHINE* Pretty cute huh! I should make it big!
So this is our new grill. Andrew and I went to glorious WALLY-WORLD the other day and I really really wanted to get a grill. We went and looked at a few of them and finally decided on this one! Its portable and pretty awesome I must say! When we finally decided on it I was SUPER excited... so much so that andrew thought I must be a guy.. it was pretty funny... So because we got the grill, OF COURSE we had to get some meat! We had hamburger, but we both really wanted steak. SO we went and bought some steak! But each piece was huge, so we cut them in half. And my goodness was the best steak I have EVER had! Andrew is now the only one that can cook my steak now. His was how he liked it, and mine was just perfect! Anywho... if your in the mood for steak, let me know!

Happy Happy Easter!!!

2008-03-22T16:42:00.000-07:00

Look at Mom's beautiful flowers! I really can't wait until it gets warm enough out that all the flowers grow and Munsinger Gardens is all beautiful again! Last summer everyday Andrew and I would take walks around Lake George, and occasionally we would have lunch at Munsinger. It was so nice to be able to have a picnic and then be able to walk around and look at all the beautiful flowers... It seems that the weather is playing games with us here. Last week it was beautiful, and then it just starts snowing for some cruel reason. I was just getting excited for the warm weather to come back, and then BOOM snow again! It's just not fair to play with me like that!> After work yesterday Andrew and I drove to Milaca to spend the weekend with family. We got to mum and dads and had a VERY good dinner, thanks to kevin.. I had fun playing with Andrina outside, she really wanted to go out and play with Sally and Tootsie. She saw that they were playing with each other and decided that she wanted to play too! So she began to throw snow balls at the two "dawgs" and yell at them. It was just too cute!
Anyway Happy Easter to everyone!

Happy Birthday to Bethany!!!!!

2008-03-18T19:40:00.000-07:00

Ok So I know this kinda late, but I lost the cord for my camera and well I just got this thing from best buy to transfer my pictures onto the computer. Anyway so here are the pictures from bethanys birthday. I hope your birthday was just amazing and I love you very much bee!

Bethany and her birthday cake! Mum and I made her cake. Its really awesome! The princess hats are ice cream cones covered in frosting and sprinkles! We all went out to have Chinese and then came back and had cake and ice cream at the Gross house. And then opened gifts!!!

As you can see Andrina had a lot of fun helping to decorate the cake. She got hold of the frosting and well.. I think you can figure out the rest. She really wanted to help with the sprinkles and writing "happy birthday" but well, we had already made a mess! anyway, enjoy!

Playing with money!

2008-03-13T16:11:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago Us Bank (where I work) put out this competition. See who can take a creative picture somehow incorporating the Us Bank logo. Prize goes to whoever is involved in the picture.. Whats the prize you ask?!?! $10,000.00, so my district manager Sharon Hess asked me if I could come up with some cute idea that would get us the money. I couldn't come up with anything that seemed original or even cute. So she decided that we were going to make a HUGE snow man, like 10 feet tall. So we went to work on getting this snowman made. Well the weather wasn't working with us and the snow wasn't sticky enough. So now we had to come up with another idea. One day my mummie and joshy came to visit me and we started talking. I told them about this contest and asked if they had any ideas. Josh of course had many! He told me that we should take money and stack it into the shape of the logo.. I didn't think that Sharon Hess would allow us to play with that much money, so I just set that idea aside. Well not but a few days later we were trying to come up with a good idea... and so I brought up Josh's idea and people loved it! So one of the days a few of us stayed after work and put it together. And I must say it turned out awesome! The people in the picture (from left to right) Shelly (new co-worker), Danelle, Sarah and Tyler (in back.. Tanya's kids) Tanya and Andrew. I was the one taking the picture.. I'm sure all of you are wondering how much money was actually used. Well in the beginning we weren't sure how much money we were going to need. So we just threw out a number... 40,000.00 to be exact. And so because I was "in charge" of this whole ordeal I had to buy the money from Todd (the vault teller) and make sure all of it got back to him. We ended up using only 8,000.00 in twenties and 1,500.00 in ones. The twenties were used for the U and S and the ones were used for the outside. Now just so everyone is clear... we did NOT do this during bank hours. We have too many weirdo's that would have sacrificed a limb or any other part of their body to get a few bucks.. so after hours only! any-who .. we are still waiting on the results of the competition.. I will let you know if we won!! although I'm not too sure.. there are some really awesome entry's too...

Missin those warm summer days!

2008-03-11T18:01:00.000-07:00

I really like this picture. If you notice the old couple in the left hand corner.. they are so cute! And I just love the look of the buildings on the coast line. I cant wait to go back there and just relax on the beach.

How I wish I were back in florida where it was so very warm! I am so excited that it is getting warmer here, and I am just praying that it will just keep getting warmer! If it goes backwards I don't think I can take any more cold!

Happy Birthday to me!!!

2008-02-11T19:58:00.000-08:00

So for all of those that I have not told.. Andrew is so very Amazing! Not only would some guys not even think about taking their significant other to a show, but actually enjoying it is another story. Well andrew did take me, and was excited to go.. ok so maybe not EXCITED to see the show, but excited for me to see the show. And my goodness was it amazing. I had so much fun there! This picture was probably taken in secret, due to the fact that you could not have cameras there. I really really REALLY wanted to take some.. but was in fear of getting caught. But some LUCKY person snapped this one when they were not being watched.. lucky lucky lucky. Maybe next time I will get one too... Anyway, we sat in the upper level on the left hand side in the two isle seats. And other than having limited leg room, which there was.. it was really good seating. There were a few rare times that the main characters would go to our left side of the stage, and we couldnt see them, but it was fine! And this second picture is of some of the dancers. The guy in white obviously is the main character.. and he was good at involving the crowd and keeping people laughing. I think everyone should see this at least once before they die. Its not all tapping, and dancing.. there is a story line to it... if you can follow it without words.. and some singing.. But very very good. and the time flew buy like no other! I wish it didn't end.... but all good things do come to an end.. just like this blog.

haha

The End...

again.. thank you andrew for the best birthday ever!.. <3>