Food for Thought

camera blues.

2012-01-24T16:30:00.000-08:00

Hi, Friends.

I'm sad to say that since I got my iphone I haven't pulled out my real camera.

It's actually depressing.

I love my iphone but there is something about taking out a real camera and focusing on the subject with a twist of the lens.

With that said, I pledge to myself to put the darn phone down and take some pictures with a real camera. I will start this coming weekend!

I'm headed down to Southern California on Thursday to visit my sister and friends. I'm really looking forward to getting away for the weekend!

I have been feeling a bit blue the past week or so. Not sure what's up but I think this might be the trick to pull me back...

Disneyland, good food, beach time, 75 degree weather, etc...

Bring it on!!! =)

to be brave.

2012-01-12T11:12:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking about my goals for 2012 a lot lately. I'm not big on the new year resolution but there is definitely something to starting new and fresh...and making some changes in ones life. With that said, I figured out something that I really want to change in myself.....

I want to stop being afraid!

I'm afraid of so many things...

I want to live my life and not be so afraid to fail...afraid to speak up...afraid to go after the things I want.

I'm 25 freaking years old...It's time!

I really like my life. It's comfortable. In all aspects.... I have a good job, a wonderful boyfriend, I'm able to do fun things....I'm very content.

I don't want to be content. I want to discover myself and the things I'm good at and I feel the thing holding me back from this self adventure is that I'm afraid. It's kind of a strange feeling.

I'm sure I'm not alone. A big part of my fear is that I'm shy. Always have been. I'm an introvert and I like to observe others but it's time to break out! =) I found this article while browsing the web...some good tips.

So there it is. My main goal for 2012 is to be less afraid, more outgoing, less shy, and to discover my passions in this little life of mine. I'm going to be BRAVE (my definition of that anyway).

Also I want to:

-travel more ( will get into more details later)

-save money

-learn my camera more and take more pictures

-be nicer to those i'm closest to

-drink more water

NYE.

2012-01-02T14:53:00.001-08:00

We had an awesome time we had in Reno bringing in 2012! What a year 2011 was that 2012 better step it up to compete. We started off the night with a big group dinner at a sushi restaurant, then went downtown to watch the fireworks at midnight, then to my cousins boyfriends house for a house party.

I hope everyone else's new year eve was just as nice.

Happy 2012!!

2011: a year in review.

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's here again.. a new year! They say when you get older the years go by faster and faster.. and I'm going to have to agree. 2011 went by fast!! I would say that it was the year that I first felt grown up. Sure I have been paying my own bills for awhile now but there was just something about turning 25 that made it seem so real.

Take a journey with me as I look back at my year. =)

(please this took forever! haha)

January: Started off the new year with good people and a fun night. Then a few days later my friend, Leslie and I drove down to Orange County to spend a few days with my sister, Erica. As soon as I got home I came down with the worst cold of the year. Then a couple days later my darn hard drive crashed.... that was fun...NOT! All in all, i would say it was a good way to kick off the new year.

This photo made it onto photobomb.com too!

February: For being short month I sure did a lot. I went to Nashville, TN for the first time. My friend asked if I wanted to go so I said yes without giving it much thought! My sister and her boyfriend came up from LA for a visit. We had super warm weather followed by a huge snow storm the next week. I also spend the weekend in the bay area with my friend Leslie. We saw Avenue Q in SF and hung out in the east bay.

March: We celebrated Anthony's 23rd birthday with a big party at our place. We also went up to Weaverville for a cousins wedding. I traveled to SF with a co-worker to see Rock of Ages the broadway musical. Also had a fun girls night, several date nights, and most exciting we booked our flight for Costa Rica!!

April: Spent the first weekend of April in South Lake Tahoe with a group of friends. Ant and I found our backpacks that we took to Costa Rica. Attended the Red Light ball. Also, celebrated Easter with family. April was mostly getting ready for Costa Rica and being super excited!

May: The month started off with a scary doctors appointment that ended up being fine.

We took family pictures and I saw Zack Brown Band in concert. This month was one of my favorites because Anthony and I went to COSTA RICA !!! When we got back from Costa Rica we met up with my sister and her boyfriend in San Francisco! Anthony and I had an awesome vacation! It was tough to come back to the real world.

JUNE: Kicked off summer on a high note! First weekend in June was cold and miserable though and also this years Relay for Life. The weather finally took a turn and I got to spend time at a friends house sunbathing. We might have had a whole pitcher of Sangria. There was a few family graduations. We also attended a fun event called the Solstice. A friend also hosted a themed party; Hillbilly front porch party! What a blast that was! =) Also got to spend some time out on the lake. =)

July: I got to attend a long time friends wedding before the 4th. It was lovely. I was having such a good summer but something had to bring me down to reality. I lost my grandma right after the 4th of July. It was hard. I have lost 3 grandparents in that last 2 years. =(

I celebrated a friends birthday by going out to a fun dance club in Sacramento then spending the weekend on her families houseboat. Talk about a good time!!

Anthony and I also went to Reno for my aunt and uncles luau party!

Also took a fun road trip down to So Cal to visit my Sis. (go back to july to look at the post...too many to link) That was the best time and one to remember!

And I'm still not done....

I also spent another weekend on a houseboat with Anthony's family. Lots of summer nights were spent walking around the farmers markets. And just really enjoying the season and taking in what my sweet town has to offer. I feel like I could keep going on about July! It was a good month besides the loss of my sweet grandma. RIP.

August: I believe August started off with going to the Eric Church concert with a group of friends. The following week was the annual Nevada County fair! Went to Downieville for the weekend for our annual family time. My grandpa likes to rent out a cabin and have us all enjoy it. This year he didn't get to stay because he had a minor stroke which was a real bummer. Anthony and I also went to a Rivercats game with Ken and Lacie. Many of the afternoons after i got off work were spent down at the River. This past August was a hot one!! The month ended with the Brew Fest! Basically 3 hours to try as many beers as possible. I can say that I didn't feel too good the next day. haha!

September: It's my birthday month!! And I decided a few months prior that I was going to Las Vegas for my 25th birthday! It felt appropriate! But first we celebrated labor day weekend in Reno with the family since it's a tradition! Then 2 weeks later a group of my friends flew down to Vegas for a long weekend! And boy was it.... we had a good time for the most part. Some drama, a few disagreements, but that's normal... especially when booze is involved. As soon as I got back I pretty much turned right back around to the airport. I flew down to Orange county for a Relay For Life event. It was awesome, motivational, and exciting! Definitely something to remember!

October: For my birthday Anthony got me tickets to two concerts for him and I to go to, Blink 182 and Incubus! What awesome shows! We had a date with my sister and her boyfriend at the pumpkin patch. And Anthony and I celebrated 5 years of coupleness. We celebrated in San Francisco. What a perfect weekend. Ended the month with a fun halloween party and then going to Reno for the Zombie Crawl!

November: I think November was low key. There was the day i took a drive to look at the lovely fall colors, went to a friends wedding which was beautiful, went to my sisters house warming party, had a busy and full Thanksgiving, hung out with all the family, and just really enjoyed the slower days of fall.

December: And here we are.... Christmas Tree hunt, Santa crawl, Christmas lights, family dinners, christmas music, baking cookies, my parents new puppy, seeing most of the family throughout the month, and enjoying every last day of 2011. My last day of 2011 will be spent in Reno bringing in the new year with my cousins, Anthony, and friends.

What a incredible year. I'm thankful for all the fun times I have had this past year.

I'm thankful for the things that aren't on my blog like my weekly lunch with coworkers, having a job, shopping with my mom, visiting with my sister, reading in bed with Anthony, random dinners at mine and anthonys families houses, movie nights with friends, random friday nights at the bar, and this list could seriously go on and on. I wish I could remember every detail of this year but I will live through the picture I do have and the things that stood out above the rest.

I hope 2011 was a good year for everyone... with the bad, the heartache, happiness, joy, laughter, and tears. Wishing a fond farewell and welcoming a new year!

Cheers, friends!

instagram.

2011-12-28T21:48:00.000-08:00

Now that I have a sweet new iphone.. I also have instagram!! (Duh)

Follow me if you would like...

@ashleykosher

I now see what all the hoopla is about! yay!

A few shots from the past couple days.

christmas day.

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-08:00

Mine and Anthony's tradition since we have been living together is to lay in bed before getting up on Christmas morning and sing a couple Christmas carols. This year we tried but I kind of have a cold so my throat wasn't having it. Instead we just got up and cuddled up on the couch and opened gifts from each other.

Anthony ALWAYS spoils me. I get him a lot as well but he always out does me. What girl doesn't like that though?

I finally got an iphone! And a pair of Hunter boots! =)

After we were done, we got ready and headed over to his parents house. We opened gifts with his sisters and had a lovely Christmas breakfast. After a few hours we headed over to my aunts house. My dad and step mom were there along with a bunch of cousins, my sis, uncle and step sister too. We snacked and visited. We then opened up gifts. Its always takes a few hours for this activity because we all go one at a time to really show of our presents.

Later, Anthony and I continued on to his grandmas house for Christmas dinner. We had a nice time visiting with more of his family. After dessert, we played a large game of Apples to Apples.

What a day!

I hope every ones Christmas was just as lovely...

now to the new year.

christmas eve.

2011-12-27T19:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve.

We always spend it with my mom and step dad at their house.

When we were little we would have a dinner and get to open one present that night then the next morning we would wake up early and open all our presents, then we would leave and go to the numerous relatives houses for the rest of the day. Now that we are older and none of us live at home we have a Christmas eve dinner and spend the rest of evening there and open our presents that night. It's nice.

They got a brand new puppy too!! Her name is Zipp short for Zipporah. She is a great Pyrenees. She is going to be huge!! She is such a cute, mellow pup. I love her!!

Our sheep and goats.

YUM!

sweet pup!

'the kids'

My mom always gets a new Christmas ornament

My brother, excited about presents

christmas lights.

2011-12-24T11:00:00.000-08:00

Anthony and I went and looked at Christmas lights on Tuesday. There are few houses that we have to go to every year because they really go all out. It's amazing! I can't imagine how much time all of this takes!

We made it a date and got coffees at a local shop and cruised around listening to Christmas music.

Don't you wish Christmas time could be all year long?? But then I guess if it were it wouldn't have that magic feel to it. Le sigh.

The rest of my Christmas week included watching Christmas Vacation, drinking egg nog, wrapping presents, baking walnut snowball cookies, and being excited to open the mail box and get cards.

I hope your Christmas season has been wonderful! It kind of flew by this year but I hope you were able to enjoy it!

Merry Christmas!

victorian christmas.

2011-12-23T15:24:00.000-08:00

This is Victorian Christmas. A street fair held in Nevada City during December. I love going every Wednesday night.. walking around with a hot drink and checking out the little vendors and stores. Its the perfect thing to get you in the Christmas mood. Isn't my town so quaint? I freaking love it. And even though I dream of the big city this will always be home, a perfect one at that. =)

oh, christmas tree.

2011-12-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

This years short and stout Christmas Tree. Isn't it a cutie? I love having all the lights off and just working by the glow of the lights from the tree. Beautiful I tell ya!

I like to display Christmas cards I receive in my Tree. I feel like it's a good way to show them off. =)

Also, Do you like my star?? I made it 10 years ago probably. My new star I bought last year was too heavy for this little guy. So i had to revert back to my construction paper creation.

I would love to see everyone elses Christmas Trees. . .Leave a comment with a link to your post so I can see them!! =)

I think the rest of the week will include an evening of driving around town to see all the Christmas lights with a nice cup of coffee and Christmas music blasting in the background. And possibly a stroll downtown to check out Cornish Christmas again.

the crawl.

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-08:00

Santa Crawl 2011!

This is probably one of my new favorite traditions that come with December. You might remember this post from last year when we attended. It's an absolute awesome night.

This year I decided to wear an Ugly Sweater because I found a pretty awful one at a yard sale. Also, I'm wearing black leggings with red tights over them.... just so you know I wasn't walking around with my butt out. =) If you live close to Reno, NV or even if you don't... I say you should try going sometime. It really is an awesome time. Plus Reno has the cheapest hotel rooms ever.

Kim and I

My sister and I

Getting ready shot!

The Cups turned Green this year. Last year they were red! On the back of the cup you could fill it out with your name and check either Naughty, Nice, or Undecided. I marked undecided! =) I ended up being pretty nice that night though.

Ran into a group of our guy friends that were all dressed up as Candy Canes. Great idea!

The Girls of the Night! Brit, Heather, Kim, Kyla, and myself.

I ended up not getting very many pictures once again. I wasn't carrying a purse. My sister was holding onto my camera in her purse and we got separated at one point and then she ended up ditching out a little bit earlier then everyone else.

Some highlights of the night:

-Starting really early at 5pm and going until 2am.

-Walking around with a huge group of us... around 15 people. (Not pictured.)

-Singing Jingle Bells while walking around outside and having lots of people join in. AWESOME!

-Hanging out underneath the famous Reno Arch and having people throw marshmallows all over the place. Having them get stuck to your shoes is another story....eww.

-Seeing some really creative costume ideas. It's not all about the santas! And planning a group costume idea for next year!

-Having an awesome late night snack at a restaurant called Hash House a go go. Yummy food. And that's not the alcohol talking!

-Having a nice little buzz the entire night and not waking up with the slights bit of a hangover. SCORE!

And that concludes Santa Crawl 2011. Can't wait for 2012! woot!

family tree.

2011-12-12T17:42:00.000-08:00

What a fun past two weekends it's been.

I'm officially in the Christmas mood! Tonight when I got home from work I started wrapping gifts and poured myself a glass of sparkling apple cider...in a wine glass of course. All while listening to Christmas music (duh)!

Not this past weekend but the weekend before we went out to Reno with the family to get our Christmas tree. Remember how I said I would take pictures....well this is all i got.

And to be honest... Anthony took these pictures. I FORGOT my nice camera. I was so bummed.

It was crazy that there was practically no snow... because last year there was a ton!

The other hours of the weekend were spent eating way toooo much sushi for a friends birthday, indulging in chocolate martinis, and being lazy with the family.

Is everyone ready for Christmas? You know we are less then 2 weeks away.. which is absolute madness. I have a few gifts to buy still but I did a lot of online shopping this year. I'm going to get back to wrapping presents now. I hope everyone had a great weekend.

Stay tuned for scenes from this weekend....

BB update.

2011-12-01T18:43:00.001-08:00

What's been going on with me lately according to my blackberry...

Bought this Lucky Brand bracelet for myself while trying to Christmas shop for others. The plus side is I had a gift card to Macys... so it was free. Isn't it pretty??

Grocery Shopping. Spending way too much on food. But saving $70 dollars while doing it too! Pretty good deal. Fyi, I just made a bomb dinner with that spaghetti squash.

Pretty drives home from work.

What's up with these weird animal fur hats? I don't get it but my sister and I had fun trying them on at H&M.

Yummy leftovers from Thanksgiving for breakfast. Apple Crisp. mmmmm...

Well it's been a week since Thanksgiving. It was an awesome 4 days off from work just simply for the fact that I had 4 days off from work. ha! Lovely dinners, family time, hanging out with friends and cousins, Christmas shopping (not on black friday mind you), and sleeping in!!

Last night, again no pictures, I went to a Clint Black concert (80-90's country musician) and it was a local concert! He played in our little town! It was a pretty fun time! I wish I would have brought my camera in with me but the security guard told me that we couldn't...so i ran back to my car to put it away then of course I see people taking pictures. figures.

This weekend I'm headed to Reno for our annual Christmas tree hunt with a big group of family and friends. This will be the 6th year that we have been doing this tradition! I hope to come back with some rad photos because as you can see I didn't take any this past weekend during Thanksgiving. =( my bad...

I hope you have a fabulous weekend! Doing anything fun?

weekend roundup.

2011-11-21T18:18:00.001-08:00

This last weekend was good. Most weekends are good but this one especially.

Breaking Dawn was pretty darn good in my opinion! There was one really cheesy part that i laughed a lot at and thought they could have done something different (when the wolves are 'talking') but other then that they did good. Now we must wait a whole year for the last part. *le sigh*

On Saturday I attended a friends wedding. I love weddings. They are the best. It was a chilly day and looked like rain but the weather held off and they were able to do the ceremony outside with the reception in a lovely barn. After seeing the bride and groom off to their honeymoon the majority of us headed out to a local watering hole and celebrated the rest of the night.

Sunday, I went shopping with my mom. I tried to do some Christmas shopping. I found a couple things for Anthony but that's it. I feel like all the weekends until Christmas are jammed packed too. We will see how this goes...

I can't believe Thanksgiving is this week too! Time is on warped speed these days. I guess it just means I need to be more Thankful for each day that I have. *trying* =)

How was your weekend??

breaking dawn.

2011-11-16T10:37:00.001-08:00

Well it happened... I have my first cold of the season. Oh Joy.....

I have been drinking Airborne and Emergen-C non stop and I just ordered the NeilMed Sinus Rinse with bottle. I have been wanting to try Neti pot for some time...I hope it works!

My body obviously didn't take into account that I'm busy and have a packed week and weekend ahead.

Who's going to go see Breaking Dawn on Friday??!! This girl is...sick or not! I went to the opening night of Twilight, New Moon, and Eclipse so it's only fitting that I keep the tradition going! I'm excited! They made us wait long enough... didn't they?

I just watched Twilight and New Moon. And Thursday my friend is coming over so we can watch Eclipse together! =)

Other things going on with me:

-Starting to plan next years Relay For Life.

-Going to a friends wedding on Saturday! I love going to weddings!

-Participating in the Turkey Trot that takes place Thanksgiving morning. I hope my cold is gone by then!

Here we are again..

2011-11-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

I had a pretty darn good weekend. But I think I'm coming down with something now. Bummer..

Friday one of my friends came over and we watched Twilight while painting our nails and drinking wine. We have to get ready for Breaking Dawn coming out this coming Friday!

On Saturday, My mom, sis, and I went shopping and lunched. It was a lovely afternoon. Later that night, Anthony and I went down to Folsom for a birthday dinner and drinks. It was a really fun time. We didn't get home until almost 3am though.

So needless to say I slept in on Sunday. And didn't really do a whole lot. Watched the 49ers win!! I also took a drive around town to take some pictures of the fall colors before they are all gone. It was a beautiful day!

How was your weekend?

TGIF...again.

2011-11-11T07:50:00.001-08:00

Well apparently I only write updates on Fridays. Sorry about that. I have been in a real mood lately. I'm hoping with the change in temperature and the fact that I will be able to listen to Christmas music without it being early soon will change that. Seriously though, I put some Frank Sinatra on and my mood goes up a few notches! I love the holiday season.

I also want to give a shout out to all those Veterans out there! And to all those still serving! Thank you!! xoxo

This weekend I'm looking forward to:

-shopping

-relaxing

-maybe catching a movie

-hanging out with my sister and mom

What about you? Doing anything fun?

*Old picture of Anthony and I. It's cute. =)

tgif.

2011-11-04T10:07:00.000-07:00

TGIF!!!

I'm thankful that we are at the end of another week! I have been in a real grumpy mood lately so hopefully the weekend will do my soul some good!

Tonight, I'm going to dinner to celebrate a friends 25th birthday, Saturday I'm going to my sisters housewarming party and Sunday, I'm going to RELAX! =)

We finally are getting some rain here in California! So in my mind it's officially fall! Enjoy the season and the WEEKEND!!

Halloween.

2011-10-31T10:39:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween!

Oh man. I'm exhausted from this past weekend.

Halloween Party on Friday night and the Zombie Crawl in Reno on Saturday (into Sunday)...

I dressed up as a Zombie Ballerina...I will have to get a few shot of my outfit up tonight.

Anthony did an awesome job with his makeup.... I went for the more pretty zombie look.

Today I'm dressed up as an 80's workout girl. I'm going to take it easy tonight though. Maybe go to my parents house and help pass out candy. =)

What are you doing for Halloween?

5 years.

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-07:00

San Francisco. October 22nd and 23rd.

Our 5 year anniversary.

We started dating when we were just babies (or so it feels like).

We have seen and done so much together.

I can't wait to see more of the world with you!

Thailand, Vietnam, NYC, Portland?

Where ever we go next it won't matter because we will make the most of it.

The view from our hotel room, The Mayflower Hotel

The beautiful Golden Gate Bridge as seen from Baker Beach

Baker Beach

And this concludes my San Fran posts. We had a good time. End of story. =)

blue bottle.

2011-10-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

Blue Bottle Coffee.

Seriously some of the best coffee I have ever had. I want it every day. The New Orleans style iced cafe is delicious. You don't even need sugar. The mocha is creamy, dreamy, and chocolaty in the right way. Not overly sweet.

I will dream of my next cup until I'm in SF again. =)

food fool.

2011-10-25T20:51:00.000-07:00

San Francisco was amazing this past weekend. The weather was incredible. It was actually hot! I was walking around in a tank top with no jacket at 9pm. Almost unheard of..

Anywho, while in SF we did lots of walking! Hung out in different neighborhoods that we don't normally get to spend a lot of time in. And of course we did lots of eating.

Here is a nice sampling of some of the treats we had. =)

Blue Bottle Coffee. It's the best!

Boccalone. Meat Cone. Flavorful salami

Umami Burger recently opened up a location in SF. You might have heard about the famous burger joint that's originally from LA. The namesake burger was awesome. So many different flavors going on!

Cheese tots. Not on the menu... you have to ask for them. Plus umami ketchup. I don't want the regular stuff ever again.

For a mid day pick me up we found our way to the Tipsy Pig. We had a few rounds of a drink called Strawberry Fields. Delicious and could be dangerous.

We ended up at a place called Farmer Brown for dinner. Soul food. Started with jalapeno biscuits and an apple jack. I then remembered that I'm not much of a bourbon drinker...oh well.

Fried chicken, mac n cheese, and greens. Pretty darn good.

We ended up at blue bottle coffee again for breakfast... But for lunch we went to a place called Cha Cha Cha on Haight st. It was a cool funky place. My friend told me about it and said we must get some sangria. I didn't argue. I'm a big sangria fan.

Fried plantains with beans as our tapa

And a Cuban sandwich to share which came with plantain fries. yum!

I love trying new restaurants and finding the places that locals like to eat. It's a passion of mine. I travel through my stomach. =)

I wish I left all those calories in SF... sad to say they came home with me and I will be working out lots this week. ha!

TGIF

2011-10-21T17:16:00.000-07:00

Oh it's Friday again. Thank God! I wish weekends lasted longer and came quicker. Anyone else? I'm really looking forward to this weekend because Anthony and I are spending it in San Francisco. We are celebrating our 5 year anniversary of togetherness. I asked Anthony what he wanted to do while there... he simply said "let's just get lost". Isn't that cute? I think it's a good idea... as long as good food is involved in that. =)

I hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! xoxo

A few pictures of our weekend there last October....PS- October is the best month to visit SF... Shhh..

Cheers!

BB pictures

2011-10-18T18:40:00.000-07:00

I haven't done a purge of pictures take with my phone in a while... Here are some things and places that I have captured with my cell phone... And yes, I still use a blackberry which means I don't have Instagram.

Yummy Fresh squeezed orange juice from my favorite breakfast spot, South Pine.

Pretty start to the day. I was down at my moms house early one day to help her do some yard work.

Beautiful sunset in Downtown Sacramento. The Sacramento River.

INCUBUS!! Anthony and I went to their concert last week. It was AMAZING!!

Had dinner at my sisters house. I brought the Blue Moon Pumpkin Ale down to try... not bad! =)

2011-10-17T20:30:00.000-07:00

What do you guys think of my new layout and banner? The lovely Camilla designed it for me. I love it!

Anyways, the weather here in California has been wonderful.. actually a bit too warm but it will change soon enough and we will be complaining about how cold it is.

Last weekend we went out to the pumpkin patch like we do every year. It was a gorgeous day. We finished the day with apple fritters, the 49ers game, and a turkey burgers. delish.

I love this time of the year.

What do you think??

2011-10-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

If you had to pick anywhere else in the world or in the US where would you live?? I have narrowed down my USA picks to 4. What do you think of these cities?

New York City, San Francisco, Portland, San Diego.

PORTLAND

NEW YORK CITYSAN FRANCISCO

SAN DIEGO

What do you think? If you had to pick one out of these 4 choices, which would you pick? Each has a lot to offer.

*image 1 and 4 found on google

autumn wear.

2011-10-07T07:00:00.000-07:00

Outfit post number 2 I believe.. ??

This past week the weather was the perfect kind of fall. So I thought I would take a few snaps of my idea of the perfect fall outfit.

Jeans: Free People (on sale for $45 originally $100). Shirt: Ross. Scarf: H&M. Watch: Charming Charlies. Shoes: DSW. Purse: Target (on sale for $4!)

What's your go to outfit for fall? I'm a jeans, t-shirt, scarf, and boots kind of gal.

disposable.

2011-10-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

I brought a disposable camera to Vegas with me. I love the way they turned out.

I love the color that film catches. I'm going to start using my 35mm camera more often. I love the dreamy quality that film brings out.

Here are a few of my favorites!

What do you guys think? Do you still use film?

Viva Las Vegas!

2011-10-04T07:00:00.000-07:00

Wow... I have been busy. What news? I literally came back from Vegas on a Monday night then had to jet down to Los Angeles on Thursday for a Relay for Life conference. ( I volunteer for the American Cancer Society and am on my areas planning committee for the Relay for Life. Check it out if you don't know what I'm talking about!! It's a cool event and I bet your area has one.)

Anyways, Vegas wore.me.out.

Want to see some of the fun we had??

We gambled.

We had late night snacks.

We lounged by the pool at the Caesars Palace. (we didn't stay there but girls got to get in for free.. and for Vegas that's saying something.)

We drank Pina Coladas in the pool.

We took shots. a few times. =)

We had the boys model before going out.

We had dinner at Dicks in the Excalibur. Imagine that bag going over my head. LOL that place is bad in a really funny way.

We partied at Rain inside the Palms.

We drank $16 dollar Vodka Red Bulls while doing so.... (why does Vegas have to cost an arm and a leg??)

We had my birthday dinner at Margaritaville which had a good view of the strip.

We took tourist pictures.

We went to Rehab. (An awesome, insane, crazy, etc etc pool party at the Hard Rock.)

We went to a Burlesque show.

We watched the Bellagio water show.

We left Vegas in style... a limo ride to the airport.

Vegas was awesome. I can't believe that they can get away with charging so much for everything there though. I guess it's the city of excesses though.. in all aspects. Glad I had a good group of friends with me to celebrate my birthday. It was one to remember.

Hello October.

2011-10-03T20:30:00.000-07:00

The perfect way to spend a beautiful fall day:

Picnic in the park with the one you love. Veggie bagel sandwich. Sparkling apple juice. A slight breeze. The sun peaking through the trees. A returning coolness to the air.

Hello October. Glad to see you.

25!

2011-09-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Since it's my Birthday... my 25th birthday...*feeling old..*

I thought i would do this fun little thing that I saw over here on this blog.

I introduce to you the A to Zs of me!

A. Age: 25.. today!
B. Bed size: Full
C. Chore that you hate: What is all of them... but I dislike cleaning the bath tub the most.
D. Dogs: My parents have two pugs. But i don't have any. I don't want that responsibility right now.
E. Essential start to your day: Shower. Quite time. Oatmeal and coffee
F. Favorite color: I love all kinds of greens
G. Gold or Silver: Most of the time I would say silver..but I'm really attracted to a lot of gold jewelry lately.
H. Height: 5'8 1/2"-5’9"
I. Instruments you play: I played the trumpet and french horn from 4th grade all the way up until freshmen year. I probably couldn't pick it up now.
J. Job title: Paper pusher. lol I work in a medical billing office. Not the job that i want to do the rest of my life.
K. Kids: None but someday I would like 2 little ones.
L. Live: Northern California. Grass Valley. 3 hours east of SF...1 hour West of Lake Tahoe.
M. Mother’s name: Patricia. When she was younger a lot of people called her Tric.
N. Nicknames: Ash, cash, AK47, babe
O. Overnight hospital stays: I haven't had any. *knocks on wood*
P. Pet peeves: too many to list... seriously.
Q. Quote from a movie: "A gun rack...a gun rack. I don't even own A gun, let alone many guns that would necessitate an entire rack. What am I gonna do...with a gun rack?" -Waynes World.. =) hehe
R. Right or left handed: Righty
S. Siblings: 1 real sister Brittney, 2 Step Sisters Erica and Julie, and 1 Step Brother Darkin.
U. Underwear: Don't leave home without it!
V. Vegetable you hate: I haven't met a vegetable I didn't like.
W. What makes you run late: I'm going to be serious when I say this...Other people. I'm a very punctual person. I'm always waiting around for others.
X. X-Rays you’ve had: I haven't had any.
Y. Yummy food that you make: I really like my spicy corn chowder and my turkey chili.
Z. Zoo animal: I like the whales, monkeys, and elephants.

City of Sin

2011-09-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

And I'm off again....

Vegas bound with a group of awesome friends to celebrate my

25th BIRTHDAY!! =)

My birthday is on Saturday and I couldn't think of a better place to celebrate my quarter (or quarter life crisis) of a life birthday!

Adios amigos!

images found here

Scenes from the Summer

2011-09-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

Just a few photos from the summer.

Random things. Things that maybe didn't have the biggest impact on the season but happened non the less.

10 years.

2011-09-11T05:00:00.000-07:00

10 years ago I was 14 going on 15.

10 years ago I was a sophomore in High school.

10 years ago today I woke up to go to school like any other day.

10 years ago today I wore my favorite pink tank top and sparkly belt.

10 years ago today I watched the news. Like every morning before school.

10 years ago today I didn't understand how someone could accidentally crash their plane into a building.

10 years ago today I watched a second plane on live feed do the same thing.

10 years ago today I was confused. What was going on?

10 years ago today I watched the news in all of my classes. I was so interested.

10 years ago today I wrote in my dairy that the USA had been attacked by terrorist

10 years ago today I cried myself to sleep....feeling helpless. I wanted to help those people who were trapped in the buildings ruble.

10 years ago today the world changed

10 years ago today was one of the scariest and saddest days in my life.

I will always remember 10 years ago from today. As many of you will too.

Today; I'm proud to be an American. Today; I stop and take a minute to think about those who we lost. Today; I celebrate life.

Ps. Happy Birthday to my brother. 19 years old...can't believe it.

a good way to start the day..

2011-09-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great 3 day weekend! I spent the weekend in Reno with my family. It's an annual tradition. I think it's 6 years strong. I will share pictures from the weekend soon... but wanted to share these pictures first...

The sunrise that started off a good day last week. Is there anything better then seeing the sun rise and have it look like that? gorgeous...don't you think?

Hope the next week treats you well.

the yuba

2011-09-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

My happy place.

South Yuba River. Natural playground. Beautiful.

2011-09-01T07:00:00.000-07:00

a few pictures from this years fair. didn't take too many photos this year. I usually go everyday but i had to miss the last day this year because I woke up sicker then a dog. I thought it was food poisoning but Anthony ended up coming down with the same thing 2 days later. it was awful. Nothing worse then getting sick in the summer time and to top that on the last day of the fair!

barefoot blue jean night.

2011-08-31T07:00:00.000-07:00

I love summer concerts. I love my friends. I love a cold beer on a Friday night.

Eric Church was awesome as well as Toby Keith. There is just something about a country concert... First of all, they are usually cheap. Second, everyone just wants to have a good time. Third, the music is just fun.

Other concerts that i hope to attend this year:

Incubus

Blink 182

flying by..

2011-08-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

Gosh.. where have I been?! busy busy busy!

And when I'm not busy I haven't felt much like updating my poor little blog. I'm lazy I tell ya!

Anyways, I can't believe it's the last week of August and that Labor Day weekend is approaching. I have had a great summer so far... I don't even know where to begin because I left off updating when I went to LA in the middle of July.

Since then I have:

-spent a weekend on a houseboat

-celebrated my grandmothers life

-lost my sweet great grandpa John at the tender age of 99.

-Had a week of fun at the Nevada County Fair

-Came down with a 48 hour killer flu

-Visited with family in the yearly trip to Downieville

-Danced the night away at the Eric Church and Toby Keith concert

-Drank one to many beers at the Brew Fest.

-Rivercats baseball game on a weeknight

-Working out during my lunch breaks. Iron Circuit is kicking my butt in a good way!

and so much more... Don't you love the fun that comes with summer??!! I wish people would stop wishing away time and just enjoy the season that we are in. Fall will come soon enough. Live in the moment and enjoy the best season! =)

county fair!

2011-08-09T20:59:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again... Fair time!!

Our county fair is in town for 5 days and it's seriously the best fair (maybe a little bias). I go everyday... normally just for dinner and to hangout with friends. We have the most beautiful fairgrounds too. Voted one of the top 10 most beautiful fairgrounds in California!

I have been going since I was a little girl so it's just a yearly traditional. It also signifies to most kids that school is about to start. So i still get butterflies when the fair comes to town like school is about to start.

Do you guys go to your county or state fair when it comes to town?

treats and beach

2011-07-29T17:52:00.001-07:00

I want to finish up on Anthony and my trip down to SoCal.

Sunday started off with Breakfast in Downtown Fullerton. Ant and I enjoyed sitting outside on a perfect morning.

After, we met up with Erica and Chris. We got a Joelatti (the best treat ever! fresh fruit shaved ice combined with the best soft serve ice cream) and then we headed to Newport Beach.

♥

It was a glorious day. We ended the day with watching Erica, Chris, and Leslie play in their Kickball game. They are on a team. Then headed to the local bar that sponsors the league. We were going to do karaoke and sing Shoop by Salt n' Pepper but for some reason they didn't have that song! How is that possible??

Anyway, it was an awesome trip. It's always fun when we are down there though. Just hanging out with friends, eating good food, and exploring the surrounding areas.

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend! I'm headed out to the lake now for the weekend. =)

food trucks galore

2011-07-28T18:48:00.000-07:00

Hello... back to the LA madness...

To finish up Saturday we had planned to go to the Outdoor Cinema Food Fest that took place at Grand Hope Park in downtown LA. We bought tickets before hand and arrived around 6. There were quite a few people already there with their blankets but we found a decent spot...and more importantly it was close to the FOOD TRUCKS! =)

Office Space was the movie of the week. It was awesome. It had been forever since I had seen that movie and I forgot how many catch phrases are from that movie. If I lived in LA this would probably be something I would try to attend at least twice a month.

Nothing better than being outside, food trucks, good friends, and a movie. oooohhh and a local band.

Check out the pictures =)

*really good hotdog. basil aioli, arugula, tomato, and fried onions.*

*i like my coke in a bottle...can you tell?*

*mochi ice cream.. =)*

ahh.. what a fun night. I love summer. I love the city of angels too.

the waffle and amoeba

2011-07-27T16:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday we spent the day in LA. Here's a look at half the day. Too much for one post. =)

Downtown wasn't too busy. I suspect "carmageddon" was to blame.

We brunched at The Waffle on Sunset.

my waffle. Lemon curd and Blueberry compote waffle.

Anthony's waffle. red velvet.

After brunch, we went and listened to music at Amoeba. The place is amazing. So much to look at. Every kind of music (and movies) that you could possibly want. I bet if it's not there that they can get it.

Stay tuned for the second half of Saturday. I must say that this was one eventful weekend...my most favorite kind.

Kogi and Pablo

2011-07-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

After Disneyland we hurried and changed, swiped on some more deodorant, and cruised over to Irvine. We had plans to see Pablo Francisco at the Irvine Improv! Erica and I had seen Pablo about 4 years ago at the Punchline in Sacramento so we were looking forward to seeing him again. Before the show we tracked down the Kogi Truck which happened to be in a random parking lot in Irvine.

I was so stoked to finally try Kogi bbq tacos... i know, i know.. it's so 2009.. but i don't care! And guess what?! It was worth the wait. The short rib tacos were bomb!

After scarfing down our food we went over to the show and watched 5 hilarious comedians. It was a very successful day/night and we still had 2 more full days ahead of us! =)

Disneyland!

2011-07-26T16:47:00.000-07:00

Anthony and I have been together for almost 5 years! I can't even believe that...but I couldn't believe the fact that we had never been to Disneyland together before! Well it's about time that we got to go!

'Tigger Tail' sooo sweet. Marshmallows dipped in caramel, dipped into white chocolate, dipped in orange sprinkles, and a chocolate drizzle. OMG.

My sisters name tag. =) she had to work for a few hours while we were playing in the park. She works on the new Star Tours ride... we got VIP treatment and got to cut the line and get right on the ride. The wait was more than an hour long.

My first time having a disney mojito. refreshing.

Obviously not my first time on space mountain. =) hehe

We had such a good time playing in the park. I love knowing several Cast members. =) We didn't get to stay late that night and watch the fireworks... but thats ok. Next time! We had other fun things to get to.... stay tuned. =)

Road Trips

2011-07-24T21:15:00.000-07:00

Anthony and I drove to LA last week and it was such a good trip. There isn't anything better then arriving at your destination after a long ride in the car. We listened to Spotify (have you heard of that yet?), ate In and Out for dinner, and sang loud the entire way. From Grass Valley to Fullerton (Orange County) its about a 7 hour drive.

Over the next week (hopefully) I will show all the fun that was had in the La La land.. =)

take me to LA

2011-07-13T22:01:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling weird the past week or two. Tired, weak, and lazy. Just drained all together. I guess some pretty emotional things have been going on over here in my life. I suppose that could be the reasoning? I have been a real grump lately too... just ask Anthony. He so kindly (most of the time) puts up with it. I thank him for that.

But it's time to cheer up and get a good nights sleep because Anthony and I are driving down to the O.C. tomorrow after work. Spending a day in Disneyland, hanging out in LA for an outdoor food/movie fest, maybe some beach time, and most importantly spending time with my sister Erica and my bestie Leslie.

I'm looking forward to the few days of overeating, picture taking, laughing, and visiting. I always come back exhausted. But it's worth it.

Peace out until next week. I hope to be better at documenting my summer shenanigans. So much to catch up on.

*pictures from the trip there in January! =)

RIP

2011-07-08T18:07:00.000-07:00

You guys... this has been a rough week.

I just lost my loving, sweet, gentle, caring Grandma, Cathy.

She was the sweetest lady. She didn't sugar coat things though and she said it like she saw it no matter if it was politically correct or not (most likely wasn't).

When we (all my cousins and I) were little we would all take turns laying in Grandmas lap. She had the softest skin and we used her bosoms as pillows. She made the best biscuits and gravy this side of the Mississippi. She wasn't from the south but she kind of had a southern accent. She had a rough life though but despite that she was still so thankful what she did have. She was a godly woman so I know that she is in Heaven now meeting God, smiling because she isn't in pain, and I know that she is going to be looking down on me and the rest of the family.

The last time I went and visited her was 2 weeks ago. She hadn't been feeling well and was taking a nap when i arrived. My cousin was there so I hung out with her for a good hour. I didn't want to wake my grandma up so I was going to just come back the next weekend (last weekend) and visit. My cousin urged me to wake her and told me she would love it. So I did. And I'm so glad that I did. I got to give her a big kiss and hug and tell her I love her. I never visited this past weekend... I try not to live with regrets... but I wish I could have had one last chat with her...

But I'm happy that I got to be by her side at the hospital last night and today. I held her hand and got to tell her how much I loved her. I said a prayer for her and if you know me, then you know that I don't really pray. I did it for her.

Catherine Elizabeth Carmen

11-21-1932-----7/8/2011

I'm so glad that you were my grandma. Rest in Peace.

America!

2011-07-04T10:06:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

I hope everyone has a safe holiday. I'm about to head out my front door and watch the parade go by. It's a hot one today! I'm going to try and stay in the shade with a cold beer. Then enjoy some BBQ and fireworkers later. I'm proud to be in American.. today and everyday.

BB pictures!

2011-06-30T21:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't uploaded pictures from my phone in a long while..

It's always fun to see what I take pictures of throughout the week...Here's a glimpse!

A fun group picture from the Hillbilly party last Saturday!

Crazy milk with a nice gold flake floating in it. This stuff is good... if you like unfiltered sake.

Pretty flowers bought from the farmers market. One of my favorite things about the market; getting a big bouquet of flowers

Awesome crab cake salad from New Moon in Nevada City. My doctor boss took us there for lunch today. He asked me if I was going to take a picture of my food today...so I did. He knows my habits of taking pictures of my food. haha!

Well that's all for this week. I hope everyone has an awesome weekend and an even better Independence Day!

What's your plan for the Holiday?? I think I'm going to watch the local parade, eat some bbq, possibly take a dip in a local watering hole (it's supposed to be at least 100 on Monday!), and watch the fireworks from my parents house.

weekend roundup

2011-06-28T19:22:00.000-07:00

I'm always late talking about my weekend... oh well..

Let's just say that this weekend was awesome and dare i say, perfect?

Friday after work I took a little nap ( i love getting a nap in before starting the weekend!). I met up with Terrie (Anthony's mom) and a few of her girlfriends for drinks for her birthday! We went to dinner at Sushi in the Raw (the best sushi ever...seriously...) and danced at a local watering hole after.

Saturday I walked around downtown with a friend. Borrowed around a thrift store and a few local shops. Anthony and I visited my grandma and ran errands after. Then we went to a Hillbilly Front Porch... OMG... so fun! I love a good theme party especially when the host decorates. We had a nice plastic pool, clothes line, and a blow up moose head in the front yard. Just a really fun time..

Sunday I went out on the lake with Anthony's family for Terrie's birthday. It was a beautiful day on the lake. =) Nothing better then spending time in the sunshine.

I live my life weekend to weekend....and in the summer time there isn't anything better then a weekend packed with fun.

Sangria!

2011-06-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend my friend invited me over to her house to lay out in the sun and get some color. I decided it would be fun to bring over some Sangria. I love LOVE love sangria. It's the perfect summer drink.

Here's the recipe that I used:

-1 orange, sliced

-1 lime, sliced

-1 lemon, sliced

-1 bottle of Red Wine ( i used a 3 dollar bottle of Cabernet)

-1 cup of orange juice

-1 1/2 cup of Rum

-1/2 cup of sugar

Let the rum, sugar and sliced fruit jive in the refrigerator for an hour or two. Add the orange juice and wine before serving.

Simple. Delicious. Dangerous...... especially when it's just two girls sharing the whole pitcher.

What a fun way to spend the afternoon though! The boyfriend had to come pick me up later though... hehee.....

(Check out that view!! Scott's Flat lake in the background!! gorgeous!)

solstice

2011-06-21T21:17:00.001-07:00

It was hard to go to work on Monday. I was tried from a weekend well spent. Summer is really getting into full gear. There was a BBQ on Friday, Shopping on Saturday and dinner with my dad that same night, then homemade breakfast made by Anthony on Sunday, a visit with my grandpa, a few hours on the lake with friends, and a birthday dinner. It was the epitome of what my summers consist of. Friends, family, water, food, and sun.

The sad thing is I didn't take any pictures. Not a single one. Sometimes I think that means that the weekend was good. If I'm too busy living in the moment instead of being behind the lens. I love having pictures of my days but sometimes I think the picture taken with my memory is better and even special. It's all my own.

I hope that the summer treats everyone well. Lets all remember to wear our sunscreen!

Happy Summer!!

that one time..

2011-06-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post these pictures after my Costa Rica ones but got delayed. This was back during Memorial Day weekend. Anthony and I flew into SFO and spent a couple of days there with my sister, Erica and her boyfriend, Chris who were up visiting from Orange County. I just love San Francisco. I'm so glad that the city by the bay is only a 2 1/2 hour drive from Grass Valley.

Now enjoy some pictures (and a little commentary) of the fun we had..

Sushi Dinner... I don't even remember what the restaurant was called but it wasn't very good so don't worry.

Dessert at Citizen Cake. It was a cute place.

Brunch at Sweet Maples

Bermuda French Toast

Million Dollar Bacon.... It's delicious!

The Boys

Lovely Golden Gate

Crazies surfing in the bay

my model boyfriend!

It was so windy!!

Dinner at the Pub in Ghirdelli Square. Truffle Bacon Mac and Cheese.....

Breakfast the next morning at Tartine!

Banana cream tart....o.m.g.

Twin Peaks. The Best view of the entire city.

Lunch at Taqueria La Cumbre in the Mission.

After lunch, it was time for Chris and Erica to head to Santa Cruz for a wedding and time for Anthony and I to go home and get some rest. It was such a fun trip. What a good way to end a long exotic vacation.... =)

In the Kitchen

2011-06-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

I find myself in the kitchen in the summer months more then any other time of year, which is weird considering it's hot outside (and inside). I think it has to do with all the fresh veggies and fruits that come with this time of year. I love going to farmer and grower markets. I go every Tuesday and Thursday and stock up for the week on zucchini, squash, strawberries, peaches, cherries, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, and anything else that is in season.

One of my go to summer dishes are Veggie Tacos.

I made this last week and I plan on making it again this week. You can use whatever you have on hand that you think would be good in a taco...this so happens to be what I had in my fridge from the market. (I have also added tomatoes and a jalapeno to the ingredients below..)

-2 or 3 zucchini and/or yellow squash

- 1 or 2 ears of corn of the cob (frozen works too)

- can of diced green chile's

-1 small red onion, chopped.

saute all the ingredients together, fry up a couple corn tortillas, add some cheese, sour cream, avocado, cilantro if you're into those kinds of things.... enjoy. So freaking good.

I love zucchini because it's such a versatile veggie.

Serve solo or with some frijoles or arroz. =)

This made about 6 taco.

summer solstice

2011-06-15T12:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the perfect weekend to kick off the summer season. Graduation, laying out by the pool, a little bit of drinking, and the Summer Solstice Circus in the Little town of Washington, California.

Its a festival for the South Yuba River Citizens League. The group Beyond Fire performed an awesome show. I will let the pictures speak for themselves mostly but I also wanted to post the event description from facebook because i thought it was entertaining.

"The evening begins at six pm in the Washington Hotel and Café with dinner available for purchase, and the members of Nevada County’s Beyond Fire Tribe and Circus Jam will be offering informal participatory instruction, experimentation, and discussion of the circus arts: poi, rope dart, hula hoops, juggling, acro yoga. Meanwhile, a kaleidoscope of music and spoken-word will entertain and dazzle you!

Put the day to rest with SambaDrop and after dark, the fires will be lit for a hazardously hot, magically mysterious, sultry, smoky, and spectacular performance by Beyond Fire Tribe & Friends. Stay after the fire show to be enticed by Bowtie Beauties Burlesque and lose yourself in the sumptuous beats of local and regional musicians all performing for the spirit of the Yuba! "

Yes, I live in a very hippie town. I'm from Northern California, what do you expect? I would say that the festival was a mini Burning Man. It was such a good time. I can't wait to go again next year!

and one picture of my friend and I for kicks..

and some of the people gathering before dark.

this one made me feel real old..

2011-06-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

My step sister-Erica's half sister, (complicated family... don't worry about it) Miranda graduated from 8th grade this past week. This little girl is just that to me... a little baby. Erica and I use to babysit her. I was her designated bottle maker every time we were together. We wanted to dress her everyday and change her outfits... our own personal doll. I went to Mexico with them when she was about 4 or 5. She made up a song about me... it went a little like this "Ashley is a stinky girl because she won't go swimming with me."

I was 15 at the time and I wanted to lay out in the sun and she really wanted me to play in the pool with her. She sang that song until i finally got in the pool with her. ahh... the memories. =)

She is going to be an awesome highschooler now! Can't wait to see how she matures and goes through her teenage years. =)

2-0-1-1

2011-06-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to the class of 2011!

I'm proud of you, Brit!

I'm excited to see where the future takes you.

If I could offer some words of advice... (you know since I'm so wise and graduated from high school 7 years ago {eeek.. i'm getting old!})..

-be open minded to new ideas and opinions

-when an awesome opportunity presents itself...take it by the horns.

-travel. It's the best way to learn about life, people, culture.

-don't be afraid to fail (i'm still working on the this one.)

-be smart. be aware of your surroundings, especially being in a new city.

Brit, call your mom and dad. they will miss you.

also call anthony. he wants to be apart of your adult life.

you must call christina. sister relationships are the most important. she will need you, especially since you won't be around when she starts high school.

And I hope you know where you can find me. and I promise if you ever need someone to talk to, you can count on me.... (without judgement)

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

liberty and justice.

2011-06-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had an awesome weekend. I had a really great one. It was the perfect weekend to start out the summer! (more on that later...)

But first I wanted to say Happy Flag Day! =)

'famous in a small town'

2011-06-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

OK you guys... I have a funny story. At least I think it's funny...and if you don't that's fine. I just want to write it down.

Sooo...My sister Erica works at Disneyland in Tomorrowland. She works on Autopia and the recent opened Star Tours. She was working Sunday night when low and behold Leonardo Dicaprio and Blake Lively + group of their friends come to the ride with a special cast member to take them around. They got to bypass the line (of course they did...) and have their own private ride. My sis followed them up and saw them taking pictures of each other with the cell phones. She told me all about it on Monday morning! Being the good blogger that I am (rolling eyes) I decided to tweet the news to fellow blogger Lauren since I know she has a deep love for all things Leo. She appreciated the news and I went along with my day. Later, I receive a twitter message from a girl saying that she works at US weekly magazine and wants to know about my Blake + Leo encounter. I message her back telling her what I know via my sis. I noticed that she also tweeted another guy who tweeted something about seeing them at Disneyland. I didn't have that much information for them to really run a story or anything.....or so I thought....

I wake up Tuesday morning with the story being online at the magazines website plus several other 'news' sites. WTH?!?! They definitely ran a story with information that they received from little ol' me. CRAZY!! I still can't believe this... I was involved in ousting Blake and Leo.

Then, later in the day on Tuesday I receive another tweet from a guy works at PEOPLE magazine wanting to know what I know. I give him my email address... and he writes to asking me what I know and calls me 'an old pro at this'. We have exchanged a few emails. Everyone is so interested in this story because they think it's 'adorable that they went to Disneyland so early on in their relationship.'

Click here to read the article about them being in Disneyland. Reported by the new correspondent, Ashley Kosher. ;)

HAHAHAHA

oh and PS: My sis and I already decided to start a gossip ring. She is going to give me all the dirty info from Disneyland and all I have to do is Tweet about it. They will come knocking! ;) Next time we will try to get pictures though...so atleast we can ask for some money!

la playa

2011-06-08T07:00:00.000-07:00

The beaches in Costa Rica are beautiful. The water is warm... really warm. The first couple days we didn't spend too much time on the beach but the last few we made up for that! I got pretty burnt even with the sunscreen but I'm really tan now! =) I just wish the sun would come out here in California so all my hard work doesn't fade away. ;)

I would like to be back on these beaches right now.... sigh...

(not the ocean but an awesome waterfall we hiked to!)

weeee!!!

2011-06-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

While in Costa Rica I knew I wanted to go zip lining! I did a little bit of research before leaving home and I found the one I wanted to do while in Puerto Viejo. We were up in the jungle and very secluded. The drive to the place was pretty sketchy but wow...when we got up to the location it was beautiful!

The course had 15 different zip lines and 1 Tarzan swing! We had to do some hiking to get to each line. We saw a little bit of wild life too... some bats, lots of bugs, and a yellow viper snake.

I definitely recommend going zip lining if ever in Costa Rica.

It's 5 o'clock somewhere...

2011-06-06T19:58:00.000-07:00

What can I say....we had a lot of tropical beverages while in Costa Rica some alcoholic some not...but let's be honest, most were. I figured that since I was hiking, biking, and swimming all day that I could splurge. Here is some picture proof of the fun that was consumed. *the other couple in the photos was a couple we met in the bus station.. they are from Boston!*

Costa Rica preview!

2011-06-01T20:23:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, it's June. And May flew by so fast. But I'm back from Costa Rica now. We had a blast! It was part fun and adventure and part relaxing and sun bathing. It was perfect. What a beautiful country! We explored the Caribbean coast and stayed in a town called Puerto Viejo. It's a cute Rastafarian town with a melting pot of people. There aren't any resorts or big hotels just small hostels, bed and breakfasts, and hotels. It was nice to be on the less touristy side of the country. I would definitely go back again and next time do a bit more exploring of the country.

Here are a few pictures from the trip to get your toes wet. I hope to post more soon. (But it's Relay for Life this coming weekend and I have been slammed with things to do to get ready for the event.) Enjoy!

ahhh... I want to be back on the beach.. with my toes in the water, ass in the sand. I guess it's time to start saving for more travels. =)

Hi. Bye.

2011-05-16T20:49:00.000-07:00

well i'm glad I didn't schedule a blog post last Friday like I was going to do since blogger took a poo. But now I'm super behind. I never did a recap of my month. I have a ton of cell pictures that I haven't uploaded, and it's all going to have to be put off for even longer... Why you ask??

I leave for Costa Rica tomorrow.

I will be out of contact for over a week and when I return I'm going to be in San Francisco for a couple days.

I can't believe my trip is finally here!

I hope you all have a great rest of the Month!!! I know I will. =)

B9

2011-05-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

I happy to report that I got my results back today and I found out that my little breast lump is

Benign!

what a relief.

Thanks for the good thoughts.

Some crazy things go through your head when you don't know if you are going to get life changing news or not. It's like that Tim McGraw song Live like you are Dying.

I thought about the things that I want to do that haven't yet happened.

♥I want to get married and have kids

♥I want to travel more

♥I want to truly live life

I guess it's a good lesson to not live with regrets and do what will make me happy.

I hope you have a great weekend and make sure to show and tell your loved ones that you love them.

Cheers

Scary Stuff.

2011-05-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

Something kind of scary happened yesterday.

I wasn't going to talk about it. But I kind of feel the need.

I had a physical exam with my primary doctor last week. I have had this lump in my breast for some time. It hurts and more so when it's that time of the month. I really haven't been worried about it. My doctor wasn't too concerned either but sent a referral to the breast imaging center at the Hospital for an ultra sound.

I made my appointment the next day and had my Ultra Sound appointment yesterday.

Have you ever had an ultra sound? It's strange. Anyways, the tech found the little lump that has been giving me a hard time. She took some still shots. Told me to wipe off the goop and was going to go get the doctor. Ok cool. That's normal.

Doctor walks in. shakes my hand. Asks how I am? Then the weird question came..."so is anyone here with you? Mom? Sister?" ummm..no..why would they be..*freaking out...freaking out*.

I guess my little lump is a little concerning to him. It looks like a solid mass and it's a bit abnormal shaped. *FUCK*. I might have shed a few quick tears. He didn't want to upset me. I just couldn't help it.

They wanted to get me in for a biopsy on it that day. An hour appointment turned into half the day in this office. I had to wait in the waiting room..alone.... for an hour before going back for the biopsy.

Nurse Pat came and got me. What a sweet lady. Really pro-active in your (mine and hers) health. She made me feel comfortable. That's what I needed.

Back into the same room I had my ultra sound, i got prepped for the procedure. I got to watch on the screen as a needle with Novocaine went through my skin. I'm a little sick and twisted and am into that kind of stuff. But ouchy! I don't like getting shots there. Then they put a little slit into my skin and inserted the larger needle that would be going into the mass and gathering stuff for testing. Took a matter of 15 minutes from start to finish. Nurse Pat cleaned me up, put pressure on the wound (my blood was thin from a pill i took that morning) and got me an ice pack for soothing it later.

Dressed. Get me out of here.

I was a bit emotional all day. A little shaky feeling.

I get the results on Friday. Benign is what i would like the results to come back as. And you know what, in my heart I believe that it will be. But that evil brain of mine is making me think otherwise. If you (whoever is reading!) could please keep me in your thoughts? prayers? chants? whatever it is you do. I will be thankful. =)

Now, have a good day! Happy Cinco de Mayo! Happy Birthday to my mama!

xoxox

happy saturday!

2011-04-30T15:45:00.000-07:00

Week in the life of me as told through random BB photos. =)

Easter morning mimosa

Lunch at California Organics in Nevada City

Shopping at a consignment store I saw my first pair of apple bottom jeans. lol

Lovely blossoms on the tree. I like Spring.

My new bracelet that I'm loving! They are zippers! Different and cool.

Happy Weekend to you all! I hope it's perfect.

that one time i wore a dress..

2011-04-27T07:00:00.000-07:00

I'm doing it. I'm doing an outfit post. My first time ever.

I'm not that fashionable person but I would like to think that I can put together a cute outfit. On an everyday basis you can usually find me in jeans, some kind of tee, possibly a scarf or a necklace, and either flats, sandals, or TOMS. Oh and maybe a cardigan if its chilly or I'm going to work.

Dress: Forever 21, Necklace: local store called Contrast, Jacket: Target, Shoes: Payless

I wanted to be able to wear this dress without the nylons and totally different shoes but it was cold... so i worked with what I had.

Oh and don't mind my goofiness. I can't help that.. I was born that way. =)

Easter

2011-04-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

A few pictures from Easter. I didn't take too many which is a bummer. I always kick myself in the butt the next day for not getting more photos. I always bring my camera with me but sometimes I'm too busy living in the moment to step back and take pictures. Goal: start taking more pictures!

Anyhow, Saturday night we had an Easter dinner at my moms house. It was fun. We had a lot of great conversations that night. Everything from travel, the economy, to bodily functions... haha. Sunday, we had brunch at my grandpas house with my Dad and step mom. Finally to Anthony's families house for dinner. Holidays are always eventful for me. Hope everyone had a great weekend. =)

2011-04-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

Before I head out for the night to officially kick off the weekend I wanted to do a purge of my BB photos from the past week. I didn't realize that I took so many pictures with my phone. But I'm really liking doing the weekly update with them because sometimes carrying around my nikon just isn't ideal. (even though i wish it were..)

On sunday, Anthony and I rode our bikes down to the fairgrounds because they were having a home and garden show. We ate an ice cream in the grass. It was lovely.

The best dessert! frozen waffle, strawberries, and cool whip. yummmm...

Browsing through the records at the thrift store on my lunch break. Didn't find anything worth taking home. bummer.

Rewarding myself with a mid-week beer. I worked all day then came home and cleaned out all my drawers and closet. I have a bag going to the thrift store and a bag to the consignment store.

Our hospital volunteer staff puts on a used book sale every few months. I love going and looking through all the old books. And finding first editions of cool books. I bought a sweet old copy of 1984 this go around.

Again, have a good weekend. =)

oh happy day!

2011-04-22T08:48:00.000-07:00

I woke up on the right side of the bed this morning.

I have a pep in my step.

Today feels good.

I feel well. And I think I look good too.

Wearing a new gorgeous necklace. And my most favorite jeans.

I felt inspired this morning when I read this.

The world is at my finger tips this morning and I hope nothing changes my mood.

Happy Good Friday! Happy Earth Day! Happy Everyday!

Enjoy the weekend! What is everyone doing?

take 2

2011-04-15T07:00:00.000-07:00

BlackBerry purge take 2!

Last Saturday night. I was at Anthony's parents house. Drinking vino and waiting for Terrie (his mom) to do my hair for the Red Light Ball. It's a local fundraising event for local police and fire departments. Super fun!

Lemon yogurt pancakes @ Katrina's in Auburn. YUM! I can't wait to go back to this place. So many good things on the menu.

Anthony and I @ REI. Trying on backpacks for Costa Rica. We ended up buying these ones. Can't wait!

Shopping @ Target for my cousins new baby. Love the shades and swim suit! So cute!

Lovely Chai @ South Pine cafe in Nevada City. Seriously guys, if ever in Northern California and in Nevada City... please go there. Check out the reviews on yelp if you don't believe me. ;)

Absolutely gorgeous day. Sitting outside at lunch with a friend @ Ikes.

Sweet potato chowder, awesome salad with green onion vinaigrette, and the best corn bread of my life. Check out Ikes cafe too while your in Nevada City. ;)

I hope that the weekend treats everyone well. I'm looking forward to a baby shower, a BBQ, and maybe a bike ride? Oh and the SUN!

Cheers!

oh so blue.

2011-04-14T18:13:00.001-07:00

This week has been kind of a weird one. Many ups and downs for me. Emotionally mostly. Nothing horrible happened but I was just in a funk. Probably and most likely due to PMSing...but still. My sister and mom went down to LA this week and went to Disneyland. I was just in a bummed mood all week because I couldn't go. I hate how stupid jobs get in the way of that. Of something really fun and something really important (all relative). Is it more important for me to spend time with my family in the happiest place on earth or to bill patients their medical bills?

I 100% think that family, friends, new adventures, classes, etc are more important to your well being then a stinking job. I know that you can't do these things without working but when I can't go because I don't have any PTO left then I get bitter about it. I missed out on a Mother/Daughter week....all for sitting at a darn desk and staring at a computer screen. I don't feel like my job is important. I don't feel like I'm becoming a better person. I don't feel like I'm needed. *ook ok ok...yes, maybe a little exaggeration.

Yesterday, I was seriously fed up and couldn't get the thought of quitting out of my mind. I don't get paid enough. The only reason I'm able to go on trips is because I had a good savings built up and because I don't buy many "things". I realistically wont be quitting or changing careers anytime soon... we all know the economy is in the crapper.

BUT

Today, things went better. It was the little things. A friend asking if I wanted to get lunch. Enjoying being outside if not only for an hour. A surprise iced coffee when I got back. These are the kinds of things that get me through. Until I do something that I love. What is that you ask, I sure as hell don't know.

BB photos

2011-04-07T19:58:00.001-07:00

I feel like I have seen a lot of people doing the cell phone picture purge and I really liked the idea so I decided I would do it too. Here's to a week in Blackberry pictures! =)

Yummy lunch @ California Organics in Nevada City. Cabo Dilla is what they called it. It had bacon in it too.... oh yes.

Margarita at Cabo Wabo in South Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe. Love the snow on the beach.

My parents cute little sheep. The little brown one was born in February. She is super sweet.

I got my first pedicure of the season! Just in time for it to start snowing again...grrr.

Mini lemon cupcake. Yummm. Enjoyed them at the monthly committee meeting for Relay for Life.

That was fun. I might try to do that weekly or whenever...

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Cheers!