The daily bucket

Christmas with the Shaum's

2012-01-12T22:21:00.000-08:00

For our annual Ugly Sweater party Alden scored this lovely sweater at D.I. which actually isn't ugly at all. It has since made appearances in my wardrobe and even graced the grocery store with its hip-ness.

My handsome bearded husband. Isn't he handsome?

East the beast. (Snuggie belongs to papa Shaum)

Brother in law Danny sporting a sweater and stach alongside their trusty pup Ruger.

Papa Shaum. So many things about this picture explain my dad. From the "SUP" on his shirt to the tag on his hat. Also, he may or may not be giving a speech here. Mamma Shaum sportin her new jammies.

Garett opening his shake weight. Dreams came true that morning. Dreams. Came. True.

Notice all the cutely wrapped gifts. Chelse wins that award with all of us taking notes for next year.

Christmas!

Alden and I and a couple of Santa hats.

Kiss, kiss.

Ryley and Chelse also win the creativity award. They MADE each others presents. Talk about awesome.

Chelse gave Ryley a sketch of him and of her to hang on their wall. Isn't she talented? Check out the awesome chandelier my brother made Chelse and the other sketch here.

Going home for Christmas was a much needed break for Alden and I. We jam-packed the week with as much as we could and before we knew it the week was over. We are already planning our next trip back since we can never seem to fit it all in. Thank you family for a great week full of laughter, adventure and fun.

No Place Like Home for the Holidays

2011-12-20T11:24:00.000-08:00

photo by Justin Hackworth

We are heading home today. The list of things we are going to do is about a mile long. The agenda includes snowboarding, hockey, hunting, going to the tramp gym, ugly sweater party, gingerbread houses, skyping with my brother on Christmas and MORE. I am mostly excited to just be with my family and enjoy small town Idaho life.

I may blog from the road, I may not. Don't hold you breath.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Beard Party Photo Booth

2011-12-12T09:23:00.000-08:00

Take a good look because its not everyday you see this many bearded women.

Surprise Beard Party

2011-12-11T23:13:00.000-08:00

When you have a friend with the last name Beard who has a birthday coming up its hard not to throw her a surprise beard party. So that is what we did. Happy BEARD Day Elyse!

The guests anticipating the arrival of Elyse while we sport our facial hair.

Surprise! She had no idea. Success!

Some of the party details....including our homemade photo booth!

Stay tuned... tomorrow I will be posting our photo booth pictures :)

The Man Gift Guide

2011-12-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

Guys say girls are expensive but finding manly things under $25 was rough. In the end I did it! And I even ended up with a few extra. So here you have it, a guide for the grill master and the ninja master, the hairy and the hairless.....your man guide! (I got a lot of ideas from this neat-o website called uncrate that I think you should send on to your husbands. They would love you big time. Click here for the link!)

1// Amazon 4 Mini Grilling Planks $11.16
For the grill master. Adds a delectable smoky flavor and aroma to meats & vegetables.

2// Sur La Table Set of 4 Steak Button Thermometers $20
Option #2 for the grill master. Well done!

3// Etsy Wild Man Beard Conditioner $12.99
The only way some of us women are going to tolerate no shave November and December.

4// Photojojo Macro Cell Lens Band $15
For the techie husband. An easy on/easy off macro lens for your cell phone.

5// Infmetry Carzor $17
Credit card shaped razor and mirror. For a husband on the go. Or a husband who is waiting in line at the testing center and realizes he forgot to shave!

6// Restoration Hardware AM/FM/MP3 Sound Station $19.99
For the retro man. I love this piece. Its a win win, functional and ~~pretty~~ manly.

7// Eephus League Official Scorebook $15
For the avid baseball fan who loves the sport so much he wants to keep score himself.

8// Aldo Luttman Lace-ups $20.99
For your clothing conscious man. Every girl loves a man in navy.

9// Amazon Set of 3 Ninja Knifes $7
For ninja wannabees (which includes all men I believe, except for those who actually are ninjas).

Those of you in Rexburg looking for some good stocking stuffers for the men in your life there is a new candy store next to Dominos Pizza. They have bacon flavored soda, dill pickle flavored suckers, candy with bugs inside it... you know, MAN candy. Go check it out!

AND FOR THE WINNER of the Clinque Chubby Stick.....

Congratulations Melinda! Being first paid off :) Email me at ashsha32(at)gmail(dot)com with your address and choice of color for your chubby stick. Click here to see all the color options.

Thank you everyone else for participating and most importantly following my blog. Good luck with your holiday shopping!

The Creatives Gift Guide

2011-12-08T09:39:00.000-08:00

Today's gift guide is for the creative people in your life. The people that like to make and learn new things. And as always.... under $25! I even have a freebie today!

1// Crate and Barrel Baker's Twine $8.95
When putting this together my husband asked, "What is that stuff even for?"....This stuff is everywhere and can be used for all sorts of different crafts and projects (things that husbands don't even understand). It comes in lots of fun colors too! Go to etsy and type in baker's twine and you will find lots of options and prices.

2// Block Posters FREE + cost of printing!
This site is so fun and has a lot of potential. Do you live far away from family or close friends? Get your family to pose with a Christmas message and then upload the picture their site. It takes the picture and divides it into squares for you. You can make the picture smaller like the one I did or you can make it up to 9.9 ft x 7.6 ft! Then you just print the pages out, trim the edges and put it in a mailer. How fun would it be for grandparents to get a giant poster that they have to put together?

3// Minted Journals $16
Minted is a great site to get your Christmas cards and wedding invitations done but did you know they now offer journals? They have a great variety of fun designs that can be customized for the person you are giving them to. A fun option for someone who is always taking notes or making lists (that's me! I am a notebook addict, just ask my husband).

4// Washi Masking Tape/ Happy Tape $5-$20
It goes by many names but this pretty stuff takes masking tape to a whole new level. This metallic set is my favorite. Good for someone who appreciates details.

5// Lynda.com $25/one month
A gift subscription to the lynda.com Online Training Library® provides anytime access to over 69,000 easy-to-use video tutorials from experts on Photoshop, Illustrator, Dreamweaver, Flash, web design, digital video and audio, creative inspiration, and much more. Women, this would be a great hint to drop to your husbands. I know there are many of you out there who want to learn these programs. If you don't have the software and still want to learn? Go to adobe and download their free 30 day trial.

6// Amazon 12 pack of Sharpies $7.82
Classic + Colorful. What more does a girl need to fill her stocking?

Don't forget! Today is the last day to enter my first giveaway. Winner announced tomorrow!
Also, tomorrows gift guide is for the men in your life. Stay tuned!

In the Kitchen Gift Guide

2011-12-07T08:51:00.000-08:00

Oh food glorious food. Some people eat to live and others....well they live to eat. Here are some great $25 and under options for those "live to eat" people on your list. Happy Shopping!

1// Walmart Cocomotion $15 (In store, not online)
The only thing better than rich creamy hot chocolate is rich creamy hot chocolate that makes itself. This is my families #1 favorite kitchen appliance, hands down. Pair it with your favorite hot chocolate and you got yourself a gift. (You may be able to find this online other places but no guarantee that it will be $15)

2// World Market Set of 4 Yuletide Plates $19.99 (sale!)
I love the graphic modern look of these plates. Give the set of 4 to one person or bake some goodies and divide it among friends.

3// Target Beaded Cake Plate $24.95
There are a lot of fun cake plate options out there. I like this one because it works well for holidays or it can dress up your everyday cake (if you are one of those people who make cakes everyday, I know I am).

4// Amazon My Life in France Julia Child $18.63 (new) $4.97 (used)
The way this woman describes food makes you melt into your overstuffed chair. It doesn't hurt that its all about France and love as well. Is there a better combination? No. There is not.

5// Crate & Barrel Fondue Sauce Warmer $9.95 (sale!)
Melted cheese, melted chocolate, melted cheese, melted chocolate. Cheese. Chocolate. CHEESE. CHOCOLATE. Oh the battle.

6// Martha Stewart Everyday Food Magazine 10 issues for $15.00 (Ipad version included!)
My good friend gave this to me last year and I LOVE it. I think I might just have to do a life subscription. If you have a hard time deciding what to cook or if you want to try new recipes then this is a good place to start.

Have you entered my first giveaway yet? Check it out here. Winner picked on Friday!

House and Home gift guide

2011-12-06T08:35:00.000-08:00

One great thing about growing up is getting your own space, even if you are just renting. Its fun to experiment with your style and to make a house a home. Today's guide is a few things I found around the web that make great gifts for brightening up any space. AND the best part? All under $25. Santa ain't rich after all.

1// West Elm Papier Maché Antlers $19
Growing up in Idaho I saw a lot of antlers and animals on peoples walls and I definitely was not loving it. Oh how the times have changed. Since when do I want a dead animal on my wall, really? I feel like a hypocrite to my state. But at least I have not abandoned my roots. This paper maché option is a great compromise.

2// West Elm Metallic Tea Light Holders $10
The easiest way to brighten a small or dark space is to add some reflective surfaces. The combination of candle light and these metallic holders could do wonders for your home. Metallics are in so you can find similar holders nearly everywhere.

3// Etsy Quilted Fox Print by Gingiber $20
Etsy is a great place to find original art work for your home at a great price. I love the colors and patterns of this print. It would even be fun for a girls room/nursery.

4// Amazon Design Sponge at Home $23.50
I assume most of you have heard of Design Sponge. If not, go check it out here. The moment I heard they were coming out with a book I had it pre-ordered. And then when I found out they were coming to San Francisco for the book tour I signed up for that as well (a post for another day). This book is amazing. It is filled with sneak peeks into homes around the world and tips on what they did and how to re-create it. There is a whole DIY section full of fun, new projects. And that is only the beginning.

5// IKEA Patterned Black Tray $19.99
An easy way to get started on transforming your space is to buy a tray. Put it on your coffee table and put some books a vase and a candle on it. This would be a great house warming gift as well.

6// West Elm Log Vase $19
A nice vase filled with a winter bouquet of flowers would be the perfect gift to give when going to visit the in laws for the holidays. I love this wood vase because it looks great with or without flowers and the wood tones warm up a space instantly.

Thank you for all of you who commented and entered in my first giveaway yesterday! For those of you feeling out of the loop.... check it out here and don't forget to comment!

If you want to comment on this post and tell me your favorite or if you have found anything great for the home in your shopping I'd LOVE to hear from you :)

Girly Gift Guide

2011-12-05T12:56:00.001-08:00

This week I am going to post a couple of gift guides for those of you who are still hacking away at that Christmas list. OR better yet..... for those of you who would like to give your husband/boyfriend/mom/sister/brother/dad/co-worker a hint as to what they should get you. Today's guide is for the girly side in all of us. And the good news is.... everything is under $25! And some even under $15. YOU ARE WELCOME.

1// Clinique Chubby Stick $15
This is by far my favorite lip product EVER. I am always wanting to wear a little color on my lips but lipstick dries my lips out and lip gloss is too... glossy (husband says so). The chubby stick is a moisturizing lip balm with a little tint, the perfect combo. My favorite colors are whole lotta honey and super strawberry. Go buy some now. even if you put it in your own stocking.

2// F21 Confetti Scarf $8.90
Every woman needs a scarf. This scarf is the perfect way to add a pop of pattern without going to wild. It would even be great if you are into mixing patterns.

3// Sahalie Boot Socks $23.95
Who can resist these socks, really? Cheveron + smart wool peeking out of my boots. Yes please. You can also find them here for 2 for $45.

4// Butter London Glitter Polish $13 (color: tart with a heart)
I don't know if you know this but glitter is IN. And I like it. Lets get sparkly huh?

5// H&M Envelope Clutch $24.95
I love the little gold detail on this clutch. Its classy with a little glam.

6// Target Bubble Umbrella $19.95
Who doesn't want to live in a bubble sometimes? Especially when the weather is threatening.

I would love to hear everyone's favorite from my list. Leave me a comment with your top pick and one lucky person will get a Clinique Chubby Stick mailed straight to their door. Oh yes, I am feeling generous!

*Lucky winner will be picked by random on Friday. Good luck!

Sticky Monkey

2011-12-02T08:55:00.000-08:00

I'm a breakfast girl. What can I say. Anytime I can eat something sweet and delicious covered in more sweet and delicious with a side of bacon and call it a meal I AM GAME. Do you share my feelings? If so, I think you need to try this recipe for sticky buns/monkey bread...or whatever you want to call it. Maybe for Christmas morning, or maybe for tomorrow morning because it is just that good. and easy. did I say easy? yes, yes I did. Easy peasy pudding and pie. and sticky buns.

STICKY BUNS
Ingredients:

• Frozen Dinner rolls
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 stick of butter (It use to be 2 so be proud of me for cutting it down!)
• 1/2 c brown sugar
• 1/2 small pckg of COOK (NOT INSTANT) pudding (butterscotch if you can find it, if not vanilla will do

To be done the night before

Step 1:
Spray a bunt pan with some cooking spray and sprinkle your chopped nuts in the bottom.

Step 2: Add your frozen dinner rolls and sprinkle the 1/2 pckg of COOK pudding on top.

Step 3: Melt your butter and brown sugar on the stove and bring it to a boil. Then drizzle it on top of your rolls.

Step 4: Let them sit all night and rise!

Step 5: Preheat your oven to 350 and let them cook for 25-30 minutes. When they are nice and golden on the top they are done. Take them out of the oven. Put a plate on top and flip them on to the plate. THEN ENJOY (AND YOU WILL!).

Lost and Found

2011-11-30T22:21:00.000-08:00

It's the little details that can give a home personality. No, the socks in the corner of your room don't count.
While we lived in Hawaii we would take walks on the beach and collect shells, sand and sea glass. Until a few weeks ago all of the my little beach finds were in a shoe box. But recently I decided to pull them out because hey it got cold and I was missing Hawaii, what can I say.

So, my tip today... use your found objects and display them to remember all the places you've been. You could use rocks, red dirt, sticks, shells. You could also pick up some seeds that are local to the area you are visiting and plant them to make a terrarium.

Above are some examples of containers that you could use.
1// Have kids? Use a vessel with a cork in it. 2// Make a mini memory by using a stemless wineglass 3// Mason jars come in lots of different sizes and are easy to pick up at thrift stores and garage sales. 4// Display more than one container and label them for different beaches or different vacations.

The clutter in your shoe box

2011-11-27T20:54:00.000-08:00

Over the past few months while I was A wall here on the blog I have gained an increasing interest in interior design/decorating. As weird as it sounds I find myself thinking about it. A LOT. Analyzing different spaces while I slip off to sleep and constantly trying to come up with ways to tweak this or that. Am I weird? Is it a phase? WHO KNOWS. But I am rolling with it. And I like it. Scratch that, I LOVE it. And because it is constantly on my mind it was only a matter of time before it leaked here onto the blog.

Recently I have come up with a few ideas and inspirations and I wanted to share them with you. So I will be doing a little series this week. The series will be on connecting the places you go and your home in a fun, creative, economical way.

On our latest trip down the CA 1 I decided that I wanted to find something to remember our trip by. Not just something to shove in a shoe box or clutter my purse like I usually do (does anyone else hold onto their airline tickets? For like years? Please say I am not the only one). I wanted something I could display in our home. Sure I there are always pictures, but more often then not they never leave my hard drive.

On our trip we stopped at a gift shop. It was full of beautiful art, pottery, and quilts done by locals. I would have loved to get my hands on some of it but the price was a little steep for my liking. After some looking I found the art I had been eying but in the form of a card. The cards were only $3 a piece. Which for one card isn't the best price but if you think of it as art then you really can't beat $3 now can you?

These are the two cards we picked out. We loved the colors and how they really did remind us of our trip. I am in the process of hunting down frames at the thrift store and then I have the perfect wall in our front room for them to go on (watch for pictures!).

Here is another example of art in our house that we got on one of my first trips into San Francisco. We stopped at a darling little shop and I saw this map. When I looked closer I realized it was a sheet of nice wrapping paper. At $4 a sheet I wasn't about to get wrap happy. But $4 for a piece of art to hang on my wall, now we're talking. Once I found the perfect frame (IKEA) I trimmed the sides of the map and framed it. Easy art that reminds me of our trip and is a great conversation piece.

The turkey and the lobster

2011-11-25T09:37:00.000-08:00

Last week when we were deciding on the Thanksgiving menu Alden's sister Afton mentioned that we should throw turkey out the window and have lobster instead! The Aikele's had a tradition growing up of eating lobster tacos in Mexico while visiting their grandparents in southern California. I wasn't too keen on the idea because hey, I am a traditionalist. I like my turkey and I am not too hip on sea food. So like most things in life we compromised. Lobster dinner on Wednesday night and turkey dinner on Thursday night. I now have to say... I am a believer. Tortillas stuffed with beans, avocado, homemade salsa, cilantro lime rice, lobster, and drizzled in butter and fresh lime juice.... um yes please. I know, you just caught yourself drooling right? I fear we may have started a tradition, which means the 5 lbs I usually gain at thanksgiving just turned into 10.

*Scroll down to see the recipe for our easy homemade salsa. Who doesn't love dips this time of year anyway?

Classic Roasted Salsa
Recipe via Martha Stewart Everyday Food Magazine

Ingredients:

* 2 large tomatoes (1 1/2 pounds)
* 1 medium white onion, halved
* 3 jalapenos
* 3 garlic cloves, unpeeled
* 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 2 limes)
* Coarse salt and ground pepper
* 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Directions:

1. Heat broiler, with rack in top position. Place tomatoes, onion, jalapenos, and garlic in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet.

2. Broil until vegetables are blistered and slightly softened, rotating sheet and flipping vegetables frequently, 6 to 8 minutes (garlic may need to be removed earlier if it is browning too quickly).

3. Discard garlic skins. In a food processor, pulse garlic and vegetables until coarsely pureed. Add lime juice, season with salt and pepper, and pulse to combine.

4. Transfer salsa to a bowl and stir in cilantro. (Refrigerate, up to 3 days, or freeze, up to 3 months.)

* The first time we made this we made it with 3 jalapenos, just like it calls for. Holy Tamoleee it was HOT! And we like hot! I suggest starting with one jalapeno or even half with no seeds if you don't like spicy. Then you can always add more to pump up the volume.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T12:06:00.000-08:00

Warm and cold
Cozy breaks the ice
Gravy blankets
the mundane reality
Turkey dampens tempers
while sleep takes the pie
Hearts full, stomachs fuller.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I am grateful for my family, both near and far.

CA 1 Road Trip: The Big Picture

2011-11-16T23:47:00.000-08:00

After arriving in Monterey our virst stop in the morning was Carmel-by-the-Sea. We went down to the beach and then decided to check out a local mission.

Next we headed down the coast and stopped at different view points to take a look at the coast. This stop is Bixby Bridge.

Next we drove through Big Sur, the redwood groves that dot the coast. The elevation jumps and we stopped at Nepenthe, a beautiful indoor outdoor restaurant where we had hot apple cider and breakfast at 3:00 in the afternoon. Being on a mountain, in the forest, on the edge of the ocean eating breakfast might just be as good as it gets.

Alden had heard of this place, McWay falls, and had wanted to go for YEARS. Lucky for us it was part of the drive. Talk about BEAUTIFUL. Can you see the waterfall coming out of the rock? The only down side is there is no accesses to the beach, at least no legal/safe access. Alden was pretty disappointed but in the end we decided it wouldn't be nearly as beautiful if there were a million tourists down there.

Sunset kisses...

The next day we got up and went to Pismo beach to see the Monarch butterflies. It wasn't what I expected (the butterflies were hanging in the trees about 20 feet up) but it was still really neat.

We ended our trip eating Mexican at Morro Bay. That giant rock is actually the pit of an old volcano. Can you believe it?

When doing our research for the trip we came across an article by National Geographic about driving the CA 1. It had lots of great stops, I only wish we could have hit them all. Click here to check out the article.

Road Trippin

2011-11-14T10:41:00.001-08:00

Alden and I hit the CA 1 for a little weekend birthday road trip. Alden usually prefers to "do" rather than to "have" for his Birthday.

Here is a sneak peek picture of our adventure. I can't get over those cliffs, that water, and the bridge! Forgive me America for day dreaming about Europe lately.

*Stay tuned for more posts of our trip

BIRTHDAY WEEK

2011-11-09T20:46:00.001-08:00

Alden's birthday week started out with a bang. On Friday while I was at work Alden's sister Addie showed up out of no where. Currently she is going to school at BYU-Idaho but she decided to pop in this weekend for a surprise. And boy were we surprised!

Alden was still in DC on business at the moment, getting ready to board a plane and come home just to catch the tail end of his birthday (hence the need for a brithday week!).

Addie had the idea that we take BART (the subway) into the airport and surprise Alden and his mom as they got off the plane. BRILLIANT! So we got on BART with signs and balloons in hand (and camera!.. only to discover I forgot my SD card...Rats!)

We made it to the airport with perfect time and ran to meet them at their exit. The double surprise made for and exciting start to Alden's 24th Birthday week.

We then ate homemade German chocolate cake and chips a salsa (what birthday boy wants, birthday boy gets).

The next day included garage selling (our favorite past time), brunch at the Hunts, shopping, Thai food, going to the movie Moneyball and stake conference. Pretty much all of our favorite things rolled into one day.

*Picture includes a slice of Alden's cake as well as a card I threw together via this inspiration.

2011-11-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday my darling.
23 was a crazy year mostly. but I am proud of you. I don't know many 23 24 year olds that do what you do. your positive attitude amazes and motivates me daily. I love you more than all the stars.

Welcome to 24. I've been waiting for you.

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T19:08:00.000-07:00

Halloween usually brings out the worst in me. I have a history of bad Halloweens. If it wasn't the terror of coming up with a costume it was the horror of being a vampire when all your friends were princesses. One year a friend and I were too old to go trick r treating and not cool enough to go to parties so we cut some holes in some black garbage bags and put them over our heads and then we ate chocolate pudding with no hands. yum.

Halloween was alright this year. It made a wicked comeback, and it brought me along with it. Thanks to a last minute pumpkin party with friends and a man in a tux (who just so happens to be MY man and James Bond, lucky girl). So here I am, raised from the dead and back to blogging. Happy Halloween Everyone.

Free Time Fix

2011-06-21T10:36:00.000-07:00

Its summer time. And growing up that meant free time. Time to play in the ditch, to hide away in my bedroom reading book after book, time to watch Maury Povich because there was nothing else to watch on our 4 channel T.V.

Thank goodness growing up has given me a few more options for my "free time". I've put together a survivors guide to free time a.k.a. your husband is out of town time.

1. Find yourself some new polish. And branch out a little. I picked Dim Sum Plum. (click the try it on button, to try it on).
2. Get yourself a "show" to watch. Make it really girly if you can. It makes this "free time" even better. Is anyone else out there watching SYTYCD? My favorites are Melanie, Sasha, and Marko.
3. And lastly, get yourself a project. I decided to pick one from my pinterest board. The original tutorial can be found here at thecottagehome.blogspot.com.

Here is how it turned out for me!

1. Gather the goods.
ModPodge
Clear acrylic sealer
Glue (fabric tac)
Felt
Tiles
A map (or scrap book paper
a sponge brush.
Its a bit of an investment for the modgepodge, glue, and sealer but the tiles, felt, and map cost under $2.00.

2. The tiles should be 4.25"x 4.25" which means the paper and the felt should be cut to 3.75"x 3.75"

3.Brush the tile with modpodge and place the paper on top. Let dry.

4. Brush another coat of modpodge on top of the tiles and allow to dry for 15 mins. Repeat 2-3 times.

5. Make some dinner while you wait for everything to dry.

6. Spray the top with the sealer according to the package instructions, attach the felt to the back and you are done!

*For this project I used old copies of maps that Alden had for rock climbing. I think I might try something with a little more color next time.

The gift that keeps on giving...

2011-06-20T10:45:00.000-07:00

See that big box in the first picture?... The really cool wood one?.... Oh ya. That is my anniversary present. And I LOVE IT! "What is it?" you might ask. Good question. I don't know. All I know is that it plays music straight from the radio (and from records!) and blasts it through the entire house. So of course it is set to 103.7 (oldies) because what else would it play?.. Hip Hop? I think not.

Alden scored big on Saturday while I was helping with a friends wedding. Yep, you guessed it, a garage sale. We are addicts. In the best way of course. How could you resist this beauty tho?... PLUS we got the lamp, records, and record holder... for $20, that's highway robbery people!

I still haven't decided what I love more tho... our music box or this awesome homemade sign Alden made. I think I will keep it up all year. Ya know, celebrate ALL our anniversary's. And if you aren't convinced yet, Alden also got me peonies (see picture #2). That sealed the deal, icing on the cake, cherry on top. That boy is the apple of my eye I tell you. And you remember our credenza of course!

Aren't you proud of me for posting pictures of the house too?.... Its coming along. This little cottage is turning into a mid century meets modern mash up and we love it. Come visit us, PLEASE!

Stay tuned this week. Alden is out of town so I will be doing all sorts of projects and posts!

Happy Anniversary!

2011-06-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

*pictures by the talented Justin Hackworth

Happy one year anniversary to my best friend.
Thank you for a first year full of laughs and adventure.
You are my everything. I can't wait for our many years to come.

ps. Stay tuned for some postage this week (I know, I've been slacking!)
I can't wait to show you what Alden gave me for our anniversary, seriously...
this guys is THE BEST.

Girls Reunion

2011-06-01T15:05:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting in the Oakland airport.. getting ready to fly out to Utah for the annual girls reunion! My grandma Shaum a few years back started the tradition of a girls reunion. I think it stems mostly from an old family saying, "Boys go with boys and girls stay home". Well girls, we are stayin home no mo.

What you can expect from a Shaum girls reunion.
• Food
• Recipe exchanges
• Crafts
• Movies
• Shopping
• Money jar game
• Prizes!
• at least 1 workout... usually humerous or insanly intense in nature
• Food
• Laying out by the pool
• Swimming
• Hiking
• Seeing a play at the local outdoor theater
• More food

Bring on the party time!... The blogging may be few and far between.
So please stand by :)

Three Day Weekend

2011-05-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a great three day weekend... I know I did (see picture above with awkward penguin). I am guest posting over here today. Check it out to see more pictures from our weekend.

Wet your whistle...

2011-05-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures of the cottage kitchen I snapped this morning... just to wet your whistle. Its the most "put together" part of the house at this point. I have plans to grow herbs and add some more details as we go along.

The kitchen might just be my favorite part of the cottage. There are FIVE windows that look out into a grove. There are moments when I want to throw the windows open and sing "whistle while you work" just like Snow White. But the possibility of creatures actually coming in the house makes me hold back. So I just open it a crack and enjoy the fresh air.
Speaking of creatures, I saw a baby skunk. Cute as could be. Too quick for a picture though.

*Happy Holiday Weekend Everyone!*

Cottage Day 1: I have the best husband

2011-05-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

• 3 loads of laundry in my own machines!
• Lots of unpacking/hanging clothes
• My own Kitchenaid!... (The real reason all us girls get married)
• Alden coming home from work with a bouquet of baby roses for me!...I'm not the only one who dreams of fresh flowers in my own home am I?
• Making chocolate chip cookies in my new Kitchenaid with husband. mmmmmmmmmm.
• Waking up to Alden wearing my apron, serving me breakfast in bed (see above)
• Breakfast: Hot cocoa, toast, and bacon. YES.
• Alden giving me a gift! (Some makeup I was wanting.) what a CUTE BOY!!!!!!

I'm so blessed. In so many ways. Can't believe I married such a good man. He is my everything. My best friend. I'm so excited for our new life at the cottage.

Can you say Credenza?

2011-05-23T09:39:00.000-07:00

Alden and I have discovered our passion in life. Garage sales. All week long getting up at seven in the morning is like trying to get wax out of the carpet... not happenin. But on Saturday, OH SATURDAY. We wake every half hour barely able to contain our excitement, "IS it time yet?!"... Just like Christmas morning. Now who doesn't want Christmas every Saturday? Hence the addiction.

This week yielded great fruit. Nothing like finding a mid century credenza for $10. Sure it had a little wear and tear but we saw its potential. Alden's mom taught us how to do some basic restoration and a few hours later, it was shinning like the top of the Chrysler building.

This week is the big week. Our official move in date is Wednesday! I am excited to share pictures of our new place but I am quickly learning that decorating a home is A LOT of work. We are getting to the "details" phase, which is the hardest part for me. I want some great "local" art but every time I find something I like its SOLD! argh. Like this piece. So its slow coming, but time is on our side... and garage sale season is just starting!

ps. Any good sites out there for art besides etsy and 20x200?

PLAY BALL!

2011-05-17T12:22:00.000-07:00

Alden and I got the best seats in the house last night (front row behind the dugout), thanks to a fellow A's fan who Alden's father had befriended during past seasons. When Jon passed, this friend contacted us and gave us tickets to the game of our choice.

We just so happened to choose a game that ALMOST got canceled due to rain, but after an hour and half delay we were good to go! Alden and I came highly prepared, me with my purple people eater poncho (you all remember that song, right) and him with his fittingly appropriate green one. We had cushiony seats and a water proof blanket, thermal underware and wool gloves... for a moment I felt like I was back in Idaho with all those layers but the bright stadium lights brought me back to reality.

The game was exciting. We played our rivals, the L.A. Angels. We came back in the bottom of the 9th to tie the game. Which meant extra innings at 11 o clock at night, in the rain. But we stood our ground and continued to cheer. Which paid off because they won and we got a ball from one of the players!

ps. See that guy on the right, in the last picture. Thats Coco Crisp. Yep, COCO CRISP.

Dress Photo shoot

2011-05-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

My sister in law Addie is soon to open her own etsy shop. It will feature vintage dresses, like the one seen above. We had a blast doing this photo shoot on Friday and I can't wait till she opens up shop.

Picture mail

2011-05-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

Did you see the fun idea Jordan came up with over at oh happy day? I decided to put my own twist on her idea and Alden got picture mail in his little mailbox, you remember the mailbox right?

Well we are off today to go to so more garage sales and finally, wait for it wait for it..... go to IKEA. Yippee!

Have a great weekend everyone. Next week Alden and I are going to an A's game! And I did a fun photo shoot yesterday that I will be posting some pics of. So stay tuned!

Garage selling and a sneak peak

2011-05-10T13:16:00.000-07:00

Alden and I scored big time.
We hit the jackpot of garage sales..... neighborhood garage sales.
At least three garage sales on each street. oh ya.

We went with $36 in cash and left with

- a globe
- small table for the globe
- large standing mirror
- side table
- pink chair
- chandelier

Good thing thrifting is in style.
We MAY just be the most stylish kids around at that definition.

Post Cinco De Mayo Post

2011-05-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

For Cinco de Mayo we ate lots of delicious Mexican food, had key lime pie (which tops my chart for favorite desserts) and went to the local farmers market festival.

It was fun to see all the people out and about. There were soo many cute kids running around I started taking pictures of them.... in a sneaky way of course. Alden said it was creepy and that parents were looking at me. So much for being sneaky. ha! oh well.

After the market we went shopping for some stuff for the cottage. I am getting SO excited! Then, to top off the celebrations we tried to go rent West Side Story (I know, I know they are from Puerto Rico, not Mexico but you can't help but love that movie... right?) but they didn't have it :(

Guess we'll just have to Netflix it.

Happy Weekend everyone! Don't forget to kiss your mother!

Summers first swim!

2011-05-05T11:13:00.000-07:00

Its hot here guys. Like 91 degrees. Whew weeeee!
Summer here we come. Bring on the pool parties!

ps. Happy Cinco de Mayo! Anyone doing anything fun?!?!

Our new house

2011-04-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

After the whole Fred Larry incident we got a call from a lady down the road who goes to our church. The have a little cottage (pictured above) that just became available. After a quick tour we knew it was the right place. It is cozy and cute and set back in the trees with beautiful views out the kitchen window. It has a front room, kitchen/dining area, laundry room, loft, bathroom and bedroom. AND a back patio. We will be moving in toward the end of May and I can't wait!

When we moved from Hawaii we sold everything we owned so it will be interesting getting stuff again.... dishes, pots, pans, sheets.... the whole nine yards. So I might need a little advice on whats good out there.

I so am excited for our new little cottage :)

Bucket of Balls

2011-04-27T12:09:00.000-07:00

My first swing.... notice the ball hitting the wall. Ha!

After work Alden and I went and hit a bucket of balls yesterday, how could we resist on such a beautiful day? I've never golfed before, unless you count miniature golfing... which Alden informed me you don't. So there you have it. The documentation of my first swing.

Stay tuned tomorrow.....EXCITING NEWS!

A lesson in Hebrew

2011-04-26T10:47:00.000-07:00

Alden and I made a sign in Hebrew for Addie!
Turns out you read Hebrew right to left.... so Home Welcome Addie!

ps. Did you notice Alden's hair cut? Lookin good huh?

Pitas

2011-04-25T09:38:00.001-07:00

How was everyone's Easter? Alden and I had to speak yesterday, so that was a TAD bit stressful but we survived!

Guess what we also did?.... Remember #1? Yep. We totally tried it and Alden got the head full of glitter which meant that he also won the prize! A lion bar (candy from Jerusalem) that is like the best tasting thing on earth. Thank you Addie!

Today Addie and I are doing a little shopping and then we are going to cook up a storm. Cuz thats what we like to do. We have been on a pita kick ever since we found delicious pita's at the farmers market..... SOooooooo for dinner I bring you.............

Turkey Kebabs with creamy tomatillo sauce.

Me, my man, and a whole lot of hockey.

2011-04-22T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here is a little unknown fact about my husband.... He use to play hockey, lots of hockey. I've never actually seen him play but just knowing he was a hockey player makes him a little bit more irresistible.

Right now we are wrapped up in the playoffs. I am not sure why hockey isn't a more popular sport to watch in the U.S. Its fast and aggressive. Like boxing on ice. I can't believe I use to pick watching figure skating over this. I might just be hooked. I'm half tempted to spend the money so we can go to the next game. Have I lost my mind? Go Sharks!

A thought for your Thursday

2011-04-21T10:05:00.000-07:00

"Believe you can and you're halfway there"
-Theodore Roosevelt

Fred Larry

2011-04-20T10:31:00.001-07:00

Alden and I have been searching the streets (and the web) for the perfect place we can rent (we are hoping to move out in the next few months). While perusing through craigslist the other day I found the perfect place. Three bedroom house for rent in Walnut creek (a nice neighboorhood). Was it too good to be true?!
Maybe. But I thought I would email just in case.

Last night at 11:00 pm I got a response from, Fred Larry. My first thought, "Fred Larry... really? Your name is FRED LARRY?" But I carried on. The email went on to explain about the house and how this "Fred" was currently over seas. He couldn't give us a tour of the house but he could send pictures and when it came time he would send us the key. He didn't ask for our credit card or anything he even gave us the option of paying either 1 or 2 months of rent up front. Nice guy eh?

Well we jumped in the car and drove to the house to take a look. It was a perfect little house (from what I could tell in the dark) right next to a little elementary school, cute little neighborhood. Things were looking good. BUT there was a car in the driveway. weird. We decided since he left a number that we would just call him to see if it was legit. We figured out what we were going to ask him and how we could "test" him to see if it was real or not. Right as Alden picked up the phone to dial, we decided to google the phone number.....

BAM. SCAM ARTIST. NICARAGUA.

poop. I hate you Fred Larry.

ps. this lovely home above is not Fred Larry's. It was found via here.

Easter DIY

2011-04-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

We are back from Hawaii and excited because this week Alden's sister Addie gets home from Jerusalem! She has been in the holy land for the last 4 months and we can't wait to hear all about it.

I picked out a few of my favorite Easter DIY projects from around the web. Hoping that we can try some of them out with Addie this weekend.

1. This is my favorite find by far. I am hoping that this could become an Easter tradition! Go read about this fun confetti egg game here.

2. How adorable is this paint chip garland?

3. This reminds me of girls camp banana boats, anyone? Lemon cake in a lemon, brilliant!

4. Remember how when you were little you would get an Easter dress every year? sigh... those were the days. Well, why not make your own skirt? With a cute bow in the front to boot. yes please!

BTW.... we are in Hawaii.

2011-04-07T11:59:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that we are in Hawaii???

Its Granny's 80th birthday so everyone is gathering on the big island where she lives to celebrate. Yesterday we got to go out to the beach with "Uncle Phill". He taught us how to fish. This man is full of the aloha spirit. Granny's first husband was Hawaiian so Alden has all sorts of family from the islands. It is so fun to be apart of such a different culture. To hear about traditions they have and learn about a different way of life.

So we will be here for the next week, enjoying the sun, good food, and lots of family time. Aloha to all our friends on Oahu. We miss you all!

For my brother

2011-04-05T00:04:00.000-07:00

There was a young man who lived in a Chile
(The Chile was the size of Free Willie)
He pledged to rest his mustache for two years
The ladies were crying buckets of tears
Da Chile was spicy, and red, and hot!
But the boy did not give up. NO, HE DID NOT

He served the Lord all of his days while in this Chile
So he could come home and marry little Miss Millie
Work really hard Hayden and write a whole lot
Find tons of people, but avoid all robots.
Hayden, I will miss your humor the most
that, and late nights with cocoa and toast.

My brother Hayden has decided to serve a mission for our church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints). He has been called to the Santiago West Chile mission (the country, not the pepper) and reports this week. I am so proud of my brother and his decision to serve. I KNOW he will be a great missionary and bring many people great joy and happiness by sharing the gospel with them. I love you Hayden. Good luck!
*To learn more about what our missionaries do, click here.

Annnnd I'm back

2011-04-03T22:04:00.001-07:00

Sorry about my week of slacking..... But I'm back!
Alden and I started a new tradition this weekend.
Camping in the back yard the night before conference! Lucky for us, our party lights were still up from the wedding. Which made for an extra special sleepover. We watched a movie, ate sour candy (of course) and read our book (The Giver). Lovely right? Anyone else out there have any good conference traditions? Or family traditions?

Go here to read about what conference is or here to watch it if you missed it. I am so grateful that we have a prophet on the earth today. A prophet that is a mouth piece for the Lord. Who leads and guides us in coming closer to Christ. My testimony of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and of the Savior was strengthened this weekend. I am grateful for the opportunity to evaluate my spirituality and work on coming closer to Christ as I heed the prophets council. Anyone have a favorite talk? I loved Elder Scott's....it tugged at my heart strings.

Holga

2011-03-24T13:36:00.000-07:00

My sweet brother got me a Holga camera and film, just out of the blue! I am excited to try it out and experiment with film again. My brother Ryley and his wife Chelse have a knack for giving good gifts. Here is what Chelse gave me for Christmas last year, and here is how to make one of your own!

Stay tune for tomorrow... because you just might, maybe, possibly see the daily buckets first vlog (video blog).

New Hair

2011-03-23T10:07:00.000-07:00

I got to spend the day being pampered by my sister. Its her last few weeks of hair school and I had to take advantage of it. I wish I could explain the color processes that she did to my hair. She gave it lots of dimension with putting some reds and golds in there and I LOVE it. She was spot on with the picture that I brought in, and did everything that I wanted. All you Rexburg people go see my sister before she graduates (Branae at Paul Mitchell Hair school). I promise you won't regret it. Thanks sister! I love you.

The Bag ladies

2011-03-22T10:00:00.000-07:00

Well it feels good to be home sweet home. And even though I am missing my man I am having a BLAST hanging out with my family. Especially my mom and sister. We went shopping and bought fabric to make these bags! Aren't they the cutest?! I did accidentally sew my finger though.... but hey now I have a sweet hole in my thumb! Yippee. But I'm off to get my hair colored and cut. Woot woot. Look for before and after pictures tomorrow :)

ps. Wanna be a bag lady too? Go here for the tutorial.

Split Second Decision

2011-03-18T08:58:00.000-07:00

(image from our honeymoon)

It was a split second decision that changed it all. As I climbed into the back of the truck with my friends I was torn which way to go. On one end was "the quiet guy" who I had been crushing on but at the other end was Alden, who made me laugh and smile. I couldn't help but gravitate toward him. We were all just friends of course, or so I thought. But that night, at the drive in, Alden Aikele put his arm around me. Just some friendly cuddling perhaps? That idea quickly left my mind at intermission when walking toward the "snack shack" Alden reached up and grabbed my hand, slowly interlacing his fingers with mine and rubbing my finger with his thumb almost saying, I'll take care of you.

Last night, filling the car with blankets and pillows, we drove to the drive in and recreated this moment. Racing to the "snack shack" we jumped at the top of every hill along the way. We loaded up a sack with five different kinds of sour candy, because sour candy is our favorite. We like to eat it till our tongue rubs raw or till we get sick, which ever comes first.

On the way back to the car Alden reached up and grabbed my hand, slowly interlacing his fingers with mine and rubbing my finger with his thumb. In that moment I knew he would always take care of me and that the split second decision I made almost two years ago wasn't just the right decision, it was the perfect decision.

This perfect date and mushy gushy post was planned because Alden will be heading to Baltimore for work this weekend and I am off to Idaho to see my family and my brother before he takes off to Chile for his mission. I may or may not be blogging regularly. So don't be alarmed either way. Love you Alden. See you so soon.

Riddle for your brains.

2011-03-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

What has over 10 flavors of Torani syrup, a pool table,

all the jellybeans, licorice, and gumballs you could ever want,

a milkshake maker, popcorn machine, and 20 foot bar straight from San Fran?

HAVE YOU GUESSED YET?????????????..........

Our bedroom!

We've turned the party room into our own suite while we are staying with Alden's mom.
Nothing like having a 20 foot bar for a headboard.

Happy St. Patty's day everyone!

We have a winner!

2011-03-14T17:17:00.000-07:00

(image via)

I won!
A tray of 12 delicious sandwiches
chuck full of marinated meat(a.k.a lunch for the family business)
from the top meat joint in the area.

Who knew that winning enough meat to make up a whole cow
could make a girl so happy.
That's the power of positive thinking people.

Things that only marriage could teach me

2011-03-11T10:05:00.000-08:00

Alden was my best friend long before we were married. Best friends know EVERYTHING about each other right? Well marriage has been an eye opening experience for me. I am learning things I never knew about my "best friend"... not the typical, he-leaves-the-cap-off-the-tooth-paste-and-I-hate-that kind of things. I'm talking about things that make me shake my head, laugh out loud, or put my foot down immediately. Things like this...

I put my pants on one leg at a time, just like the rest of us. But not Alden. Nope. Two feet, same time. I'm still waiting for the moment when he smacks his face.

Alden is sweet and volunteers to turn off the lights every night before we go to bed. The catch? He tries to make it into bed before the light actually goes out. Yep, my husband goes for the impossible, traveling at the speed of light.

Alden would be completely fine with naming one of our daughters Velocity. Actually he would love it. blehhh.

When listening to the radio he likes to sing along. However, it took me 8 months to realize that he doesn't actually know the words. EVER. none of them. Take for example the line, "I just died in your arms tonight"....he interprets to "The stars are out tonight". Perhaps I should give him more credit, he did get "tonight" after all.

Alden is a sweet as can be and honest as the day is long. For example once when I asked him on a scale of 1 to 10 how I looked he said 9, claiming it was because I was still in my pajamas. Good thing it just made me laugh :). This morning when I mentioned the story he said, "the weird thing is, it still makes sense in my head". Husbands, your wife is ALWAYS a 10 ALWAYS. I don't care if she has spinach in her teeth. You better respond with a 10, or a 12 for good measure :)

Have a great weekend everyone!
Prayers to those suffering from the earthquake and tsunamis. My heart goes out.

And Alden, I love you. You are my sunshine.

Crépes!

2011-03-10T10:11:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming. You know how I can tell? Strawberries are a $1.50 at the grocery store. That has to mean that spring is coming right? Stocking up on fresh berries can only mean one thing.... crépes.... and for dinner none the less!

Here is my favorite super easy crépe recipe that you just throw into the blender(Recipe courtesy my old roommate Courtney). Bon appétit!

4 eggs
1/2 c milk
1/2 c water
2 T melted butter
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1 c. flour
3/4 tsp. salt
1 1/2 T sugar

mix the wet ingredients then the dry.
Cut the recipe in half for two people... unless you like LOTS of crepes :)

ps. What are your favorite crépe toppings/stuffings?

Nerd Alert!

2011-03-08T10:06:00.000-08:00

Alden and I love to read together. We enjoyed reading our first book together while we dated, got engaged, and even into our marriage. Since then we've read Harry Potter Seven, and just finished the Hunger Games series. SO... whats next?! Here are a few ideas we have had but I would love your opinions!!! Anybody read a good book lately? We would love a great business book, a good fiction, or a great biography/autobiography.

Our Suprise Night out!

2011-03-07T16:38:00.000-08:00

We got all dressed up for the night (I listened to Beyonce just like I use to when I would get ready for a date) Then we headed off to Berkeley. The whole way there Alden tried to guess what we were doing. Thats fun. I love keeping people out of the loop, hanging in suspense! mwaaa!

Alden was grinning from EAR to EAR when he figured out that we were going to sushi. Yay, mission accomplished. I got a coupon off of groupon (remember groupon? Ohhhh ya) $30 of sushi for only $15! Even if you aren't the biggest fan of sushi (thats me) you can't resist a deal like that, especially for your husband who LOVES it. It makes him happy and reminds him of his dad. So I thought it would be the perfect surprise date! I am new to sea food..."Hi slimy raw piece of eel on top of sea weed and rice, how are you?"... But of course being a good wify and having a desire to appreciate the finer things in life I indulge. I have to be quick though, because sushi has a way of making my gag reflexes go... I'm not making you sick am I?.... Anyway, short story short, sushi and I are off to a slow rough start but the future looks bright.

The best part of planning surprise dates is that you can also plan surprise desserts! At a French resturaunt... where you order the dessert platter (4 pieces!) to make up for the sushi. Ah ha! Perfect night. Voila!

Weekend Tunes

2011-03-05T08:51:00.000-08:00

If you are anything like me you will listen to this song 10 or more times today. This comes as a recommendation from my brother Hayden.... who I get to go see in a few weeks. Yippeee! We eat grilled cheese together late at night while he entertains me... aka makes me laugh till milk comes out my nose. We have history, him being my brother and all. Mostly, its just that our brains are alike because we like to think of wild ideas. We rarely execute these ideas but boy we can dream. Sorry,too much ramblin, just listen to the song and have a great weekend!

In my camera bag

2011-03-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to finally get a DSLR last fall (early Christmas present) so I could start experimenting with all the things I had learned in school. Pinching our pennies finally paid off! Photography is a pricey hobby so here is what my bag currently contains....

1. I shoot with a Canon T2i. I love how easy it is to use. A bonus is the awesome HD video it shoots.

2. Standard EF-S 18-55 mm IS kit lens (came with the camera).

3. EF 50 mm f/1.4 lens. We got this lens for Christmas from Alden's parents and I love it. Its great for low light and shallow depth of field.

4. Next on my list! This fabulous camera bag to give me room to grow from Kelly Moore bags.

ps. Tonight is the surprise date night! I'm a little worried that he figured it out. ah!!! Crossing my fingers that he doesn't. Stay tuned for pictures of our Friday night out!

Ashley's Web Favs

2011-03-03T12:59:00.000-08:00

Technology is blowing me away right now. There are so many cool things that need to be taken advantage of... and here are a few of my current favorites.

1. Pintrest: I don't even understand the amazingness of this site yet. Basically you can make your own inspiration boards with what you find on the www. Food, fashion, photgraphy, DIY.. you name it. Then you can share with others, pin and repin, is what they call it. Go and check out the site and then go here to Marta writes, she did a post on it today that explains it a bit more and has finally convinced me I need to join and make my own boards.

2. Google Reader: If you follow blogs and you don't use some kind of reader then you are wasting lots of time. Readers let you add blogs you are following and subscribe to in one place so you don't have to jump all around. I love google reader. It lets me star my favorite posts, label posts, and keep up to date on what my favorite blogs are posting. Don't hesitate, do this NOW! And make sure you add the daily bucket.... either click that follow button over their on the right or add my URL to your subscriptions.

3. Groupon: Feels like spam but it is nothing but is a fantastic way to save money! I've already bought two coupons. One was $50 to Nordstrom rack for only 25 buckaroos. Thats half off my friends! I am finding lots of great deals here in the San Francisco area but I am curious how this would work on a smaller scale. Any one in Rexburg using this? Let me know what deals you are getting.

4. iPad 2: Apple how do you do it? I don't know what blows me away more, their technology or their marketing. Go watch the new videos now.

Secret Surprise

2011-03-02T11:28:00.000-08:00

And here is what it said...

I wish I could tell you what the secret surprise is for this weekend. But this is one secret I am determined to keep. It wouldn't be a true surprise if he knew now would it?

You've got Mail

2011-03-01T11:02:00.000-08:00

My man is getting a love note today.
Yes I folded it just like we use to in seventh grade.
And yes his love notes get delivered to a mini mailbox in our bathroom.
Its suppose to catch his eye when I put the red flag up... but it never does.
I think I'll put the mailbox on the toilet today. That oughta do the trick.

Stay tuned tomorrow to see what it says! I LOVE suprises! Yip!

ps. So for my lack of blogging as of late... I've had blogger log...(Is that a phrase?) Anyway, I NEED YOUR HELP!!!! I had a request for a post about what is in my camera bag so that is in the works but what other requests do I have out there?
Picture posts? Cool finds on the interenet? Music? Posts about how cute my husband is?
What do you guys want to see? Why do you follow my blog anyway? You are following right? Alright, well give me some input please for the sake of the blog.
TTFN. See you tomorrow!

Happy Birthday!

2011-02-23T12:12:00.001-08:00

(image by Justin Hackworth)

Happy Birthday to my beautiful baby sister Branae.

Its fun to laugh now about those times when we shared a bedroom. You were 3 and I was 5. Your nightly ritual included "singing" me to sleep. Which I didn't appreciate or enjoy, infact it drove me crazy.

Or the time when we were teenagers and we stayed up into the night filming ourselves while we sang and danced to the radio.

For a while there it was rough, you wanted my clothes but I didn't want to share them. You were the "annoying" little sister and I was the "mean" big sister.

Then something changed, we shared. We became friends and life got 100 million times better because of it. Now, even though we live miles and miles away we can finish each others sentences and chat for hours about this and that. If someone turns on any kind of music with a beat you better believe we will both be dancing.

Thank you for always being my best friend. Even when I didn't realize it.
Love you sister! Happy 22! Can't wait to see you so soon.

Hint or no hint?

2011-02-22T10:04:00.000-08:00

I couldn't resist posting this picture from ohdeedoh because I think it is the perfect nursery (go check out the rest of the pictures here). I love the gray and white combination that feels so clean, calm and gender neutral. You could easily accent with mustard yellow or a soft pink for a girl. And in case you were wondering, this is NOT a hint. :)

ps. Adele is releasing her new album today. You better believe I'm over the top with excitement.

Just some facts...

2011-02-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

• I love to use the word definitely but I HATE how its spelled. I don't think I've spelled it right once in my life.
• I love Stevie Wonder like no ones business.
• I like to hide and then jump out and scare people. Ask my husband, I got him GOOD yesterday.
• Apparently I have to get a California license. If I don't and I get pulled over they are going to punch a hole in my Idaho license. I don't like that one bit. I don't want to be from California. What happened to respecting peoples roots?
• Red heads are the coolest. period.
• I need some happy tape.
• I may or may not be teaching some classes on understanding your camera and taking better pictures. It may or may not scare me to pieces.

Weekend Getaway pics

2011-02-18T10:32:00.000-08:00

We had a fabulous time on our weekend getaway to the city. We stayed in the heart of Union Square at Hotel Union Square, hailed a cab to a delicious French dinner with live jazz at Cafe Claude and shopped around Union Square for the evening.

My absolute FAVORITE part of our getaway was on Saturday when we walked down to the Ferry Building Marketplace and enjoyed delicious food, live music on the pier, and people watching. Thank you Oh Happy Day for this awesome recommendation. I cannot wait to go back!

And thank you to my sweet husband, Alden. I can't think of anyone I would rather spend the weekend with.

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T09:10:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day! Here are a few classics that I love:

Movies:
An Affair to Remember (I can't resist anything Cary Grant)
The African Queen (all my Hawaii friends, this one is at the library... go check it out!)

Book:
Jane Eyre

The Look:
It doesn't get more classic romantic than red lipstick and red nails.

Song:
"A kiss to build a dream on" by Louis Armstrong

The Perfect Daddy Daughter Date

2011-02-11T12:06:00.000-08:00

What to do for a perfect daddy daughter date:

•Take her somewhere hip like "The cheeseboard" in Berkeley where they serve one kind of pizza a day and play live music during lunch.
•After that take her to get a tasty treat. Gelato will do!
•Next, you go explore cool grocery stores like Trader Joes, Costco and Whole foods.
•Then go up to the Oakland Temple and look at the beautiful view of the city (make sure it is a clear day of course).
•Finally you take lots of pictures together and make jokes.

Thank you dad for the perfect outing! Love you

A little Fresh Air

2011-02-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

Alden and I went on a little bike ride on the canal path close to the house. Canals in California are a little bit different than canals in Idaho, they actually have the whole "ditch" cemented out. Maybe that is why its called canal and not a ditch. Nevertheless we had a grand ol time. Got to see the sun go down and take random pictures in shrubbery. Moments that you can't buy, the good stuff.

In other news:

We've been planning everything for our "v-day weekend getaway" and I found the perfect post over at Oh Happy Day full of awesome and great places to eat in SF. Now the trouble will be deciding between them all.

Did you see us on Stephanie Nelson's blog? (NieNie)..... You should check it out. Especially if you are engaged because her and Justin Hackworth are giving away a pretty sweet deal!

Speaking of engagements....Alden and I got engaged a year ago, on a beach. It was magical! Read more about it here on my blog or here where we were featured.

Spring has Sprung

2011-02-09T09:02:00.000-08:00

Things are really warming up around here. And I am loving it. It is crazy that living here in the bay area fits me so much more than Hawaii ever did? I know a lot of you will think I am crazy for saying that. Hawaii is a great place to visit but California is a great place to live!

COMING SOON:
Pictures from our bike ride last weekend
and the daddy daughter day I had with my dad yesterday.

ALSO. THIS WEEKEND, A GETAWAY IN THE CITY. ME+HIM.
YES. EXCITEMENT OVER THE TOP.

I've never wanted to live in Texas till now...

2011-02-03T13:11:00.000-08:00

How beautiful is this house? DREAM HOUSE? YES.
Go check out the rest of this house (here) along with a house with an orange stripe.
Hello color. Hello love.

Good news... and bad news.

2011-02-03T10:47:00.000-08:00

The Good news:
-Disney world really was the happiest place on earth
-I rode the tower of terror, Mt. Everest, Soarin, and rockin roller coaster
just like you told me to. And I screamed THE.WHOLE.TIME. and loved every minute.
-I saw the finding Nemo production and I have been singing, "In a big blue world"
ever since.
-I saw a million little princess girls all dressed up and waved at every one of them
-Mulan, little mermaid, Minnie mouse! My favorites, all spotted in Disney World.

The Bad news:
-I didn't take my camera to the park... I was too nervous that I would scratch/bump/loose or that someone would steal it :(
-The picture above is pretty much the only picture we have. Sorry Friends!

Did I mention?....

2011-01-24T23:02:00.000-08:00

We are going to Florida! .....like tomorrow. Yippee!
Being part of the family business is already paying off.
We get two days in Disney World and two days of business conference,
not a bad trade if you ask me. Look for posts from florida!

ps. Do I have any Florida readers out there who want to give me the 411 on the best rides to hit up?

Weekend Tunes

2011-01-22T22:33:00.001-08:00

JSS Sampler by Jones Street Station

Found the band Jones Street Station in SLC with Alden when we first started dating. Loved this song (number 4, Evergreen) ever since :)

Roofing and Red nails

2011-01-21T17:07:00.000-08:00

I decided to celebrate Friday by finding my way to the nearest Target and picking up some red nail polish. Something about red just brightens my day and gives me a little confidence (a MUST have when looking for a job). As for Alden, he celebrated Friday by putting solar on his parents roof... actually that is how he has been celebrating all his days. Good thing he looks good in a tool belt and hat huh?

I think you should know...

2011-01-20T09:24:00.000-08:00

Costco has gelato!
You get three scoops in a waffle cone for $1.50.
They have pistachio, mixed berry, and stracciatella.
Costco pizza and gelato make the perfect inexpensive date.

ps. I also think you should know that I am getting this years award for best wife. What? It is only January and I already have it nailed down? Yes, yes I do.... Why? Because I let my man get one of these. As much as I wanted to say no, I knew he needed something manly in his life since he now has four woman to take care of. What a guy. Three cheers for Alden! Oh and three cheers for me... for winning the award of course :)

Back to the grindstone

2011-01-19T09:21:00.000-08:00

(picture via www.)

The first "real job" I had was when I was a senior in high school. I sewed environmental "socks". Its not as weird as you think... oh wait, it is. My cousin and I worked in a "sweat shop" (see picture above) where we sewed material together into a large "sock". The material was filled with the stuff you put in babies diapers... yes, I am getting technical now. Anyways, these "socks" were used to line the back of dump trucks filled with radioactive wet dirt... therefore, preventing the radioactive water from getting out.... SO, what I meant to say is that my first job was saving the world, thats right folks I fought radioactive bad guys. Other jobs I have had include:

•Snow cone maker
•College application Essay reader
•Cupcake/hot cocoa shop connoisseur
•College apartment cleaner
•Phone Survey person (yes, I was one of THOSE annoying people calling your house)
•Waitress at a little Inn called Jacob Lake outside the Grand Canyon
•Event Assistant @ BYU-Idaho
•Victoria's Secret... yep, not a secret anymore
•Assistant/intern for two photographers, him and her
•Host at a resort in Hawaii called Ola. Aloha, welcome to Ola! Does that make sense to anyone?
•Tutored children after school

So what is the point of all this? Well hey, its job hunting time again and its good to reflect back on where I have been and look to where I am going. So here is my list of dream jobs:

•Work for a Advertising Agency
•Join the ranks of those paid bloggers out there (money to blog, yes please)
•Work for a magazine....I heart magazines
•Become President of the United States, actually that is a lie.. don't vote for me please
•Be a super cool diaper changing mommy
•Own my own cool business of course

Anyone have any good advice about finding cool jobs like these? Or any other cool jobs out there? (Except the mom one, I think I know how to make that happen. All in good time my friends!)

Weekend Tunes

2011-01-15T09:44:00.001-08:00

This song seems fitting right? Have you heard Mindy Gledhill before? She is fabulous, in all senses of the word. And while your listening click here and look at Justin Hackworth's best wedding photography of 2010.... you might see someone you know.....hint hint.... along with some GREAT pictures.

p.s. have you been to California? What is a must see/do?

Hello California

2011-01-14T13:51:00.001-08:00

(bonsai Olive tree, symbolizing a foundation of family and strength, given to Alden's mom)

Hello California
Hello new life
Hello change
Hello opportunity
Hello layers
Hello breath of fresh air

Looking forward, ready to embrace.

Goodbye Hawaii

2011-01-12T11:33:00.000-08:00

Goodbye Hawaii
Goodbye beautiful sunrise
Goodbye sand between my toes
Goodbye salty skin
Goodbye warm breeze
Goodbye friends
Goodbye Paradise

Perhaps not goodbye after all
Perhaps just another day.

Family Photos

2011-01-11T10:00:00.000-08:00

Over the break we had family pictures with my ever favorite photographer/person, Justin Hackworth. Click here to watch the adorable video he put together.(the link is working today, promise!) ..... These pictures are a million miles above the last family pictures we had.... Lets just say they were 8 years ago and happened at our elementary school (you know what kind of photoshoot I'm talking about..... awkward family photo worthy!)

Featured!

2011-01-10T10:27:00.001-08:00

Did you see? Alden and I were featured on Once Wed! Go here and check it out to learn more about our engagement and wedding.

Sushi and a Shoot em Up Movie

2011-01-08T19:54:00.000-08:00

Sushi and a shoot em up movie with our friends on one of our last nights in Hawaii. (AND ice cream of course!).

We're Moving!

2011-01-07T12:23:00.000-08:00

Because of the recent passing of Alden's father we have decided that we need to move to California. Instead of looking at this in a negative way, Alden and I have chosen to see the positive. We are going to get involved in the family business and carry on the legacy of Jon Aikele. While we are sad to leave Hawaii and the friends we have made here we see this as an opportunity to learn and grow. We have a big year ahead of us but we are excited for the doors that have been opened. Alden will continue in his degree via web or night classes and once we get settled I can look into getting a job doing something I love!

Stay tuned for our adventures in the San Francisco area!

It was a perfect Christmas

2011-01-06T11:28:00.000-08:00

It was a perfect Christmas. We laughed harder than normal, we loved more fully. How grateful I am that we decided to come home. Spending those last few days with you that you would have on earth means the world to us now. Remember how you told us how happy you were? How your life was content? We asked you to tell us ALL the stories you could think of... but you had already told them all. We knew what kind of person you were. Jon, you will forever be an example to me. A pure example of charity, of what it means to truly serve those around us. You loved all those you came in contact with and you weren't afraid to make new friends. You spoiled me and loved me as your own. Thank you for raising a son that is brave. A son that is positive and loving. A son that takes care of me because of the example you led. Alden is the man he is today because of you. Your untimely passing is only untimely for us. For our children and our future. But I know you are in heaven pulling strings to get us some good kids and teaching them of what is to come. We love you Jon and miss you always!

* Jon passed away on December 29, 2010 in his home. He went into the hospital for a kidney stone and when he came home to sleep off the medicine he somehow passed away in his sleep. We miss him but we are comforted by the knowledge that we will see him again.

Weekend Tunes

2010-12-19T15:21:00.000-08:00

Here is some music for the weekend.....a little Christmas spirit in case your still not in the mood, and who doesn't like Coldplay?

ps. Hubby and I are on the mainland for the next few weeks. Stay tuned for updates...be patient though, holidays + family = less bloggin and more egg noggin. Loves!

Mele Kalikimaka!

2010-12-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

Weekend Tunes

2010-12-11T11:05:00.000-08:00

Can't stop tapping my foot to this song. I've been head over heels for Adele ever since I went to her concert almost two years ago in SLC. It was magic. Her voice has a way of seeping into your soul and feeling you with an incredible joy. So in between all your Christmas music this weekend take a listen to this.

DIY Christmas

2010-12-09T21:51:00.000-08:00

I especially love cruising the web this time of year to see the many creative ideas people come up with for the holidays. Here are some of the fun Do It Yourself ideas I have seen around lately.

1. Love this non-traditional journal. Easy to make and easy to write in!
2. Homemade hummus! Yes please. Around my house, holiday time=dip time.
3. Already started this one, SO MANY LEAVES. I might finish it by NEXT Christmas.
4. Stamp coasters, need I say more.
5. Anthropologie knock off... you should see all the other sweaters she is embellishing. Fun!

Granny's Part 2

2010-12-08T22:43:00.000-08:00

Part two of Thanksgiving at Granny's. I swear that farm has everything you could ever want. Pineapple, banana's, mango, papaya, passion fruit, limes, lemons, avocados, tangerines, grapefruits, and a whole slew of herbs. Sadly a lot of the fruit wasn't in season... but you know what that means, an excuse to go back!

ps. Do you like my new BIG pictures. I am pretty excited about it :) Thank you google for teaching me how.

Gifting

2010-12-08T17:16:00.000-08:00

I wanted to do something fun and cheap for neighbor gifts this year so when I saw a case of big juicy red pomogranates at Costco for less than a dollar a piece I knew I had to snatch it up. Then I just made some tags out of craft paper and a free old book we got from the library (ok ok, it is Lord of the Rings Three BUT I just used the index pages, don't worry) and a little twine and voila! Easy peasy... and delicious!

Granny's Mac Nut Farm

2010-12-02T22:10:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving we got to stay with Alden's Granny on the big island of Hawaii. It was such an enjoyable trip. Granny lives on a mac nut farm so we got to see the entire processes of getting one of those delicious mac nuts. We also got to experience the life of self sustainability, peace, and tranquility. Granny, we will be sure to come back soon!

Check out ALL the awesome pics over here.

For the Beauty of the Earth

2010-11-27T13:59:00.000-08:00

It is something of a wonder to be surrounded by so much beauty. Gratitude has filled my soul, and at such a perfect time.

more coy and lily's

Thanksgiving in Paradise

2010-11-24T17:43:00.000-08:00

Alden and I jumped on a plane and headed over to the Big Island to spend Thanksgiving with Alden's Granny. She lives on a macadamia nut farm on the top of the hill looking over the island. It is truly paradise here as I sit and type and the only sounds I hear are the soft rain falling and the hum of my computer. Watch for more pictures of our trip coming soon!

*picture is of our room we are staying it. Don't you just love how quaint it is? perfect.

Serene Sabbath

2010-11-22T23:46:00.000-08:00

Our Sunday included attending the Laie Temple dedication, a long 2 hour nap (we NEVER take naps.... seriously), a picnic and walk on the beach, putting up some Christmas decorations and then we watched I am Sam. I cried 72.3% of the time in that movie.

Happy (late) Birthday! and more!

2010-11-19T11:42:00.001-08:00

*picture by my brother Ry

Happy (late) Birthday to my stylish sister-in-law Chelse! Chelse has a knack for finding treasures at second hand stores (see the suite case above) and also for transforming the bleak into fantastic and unique! Go see her blog here.

In other news, Harry Potter came out last night at midnight.....tickets were sold out so we are going tonight. My excitement is over the top.

And for the BEST news, the Prophet is here today. We are hoping to see him sometime during his stay for the dedication of the Laie temple on Sunday.

Throw back to our dating days

2010-11-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

This post is a throw back to our long distance dating days.
Alden being the sweet guy that he is bought me that dress you see above and mailed it in a cute box to me to say thanks for the awesome summer we had and that he was glad he dated me... yadda yadda yadda. SO CUTE right? So I sent him this email thank you of me in my dress. A little over the top, I know. But once you start playing with photobooth you really just can't stop.

So here is where the second picture comes in. All during our dating Alden and I would make homemade waffles because we bought this sweet waffle iron at a garage sale (we are crazy about appliances and garage sales). Well the waffle iron stayed in Utah and Alden was always trying to make waffles but being that he lived with a bunch of guys he never had measuring cups or baking soda. So what did he do? Borrow from the apartment of girls across the way. No way was
I having that... I was falling in love with this guy and I didn't want to loose him to some "girl that lived in the Riv." So long story short I sent him measuring cups and baking soda. I thought it was cute at the time. Now that I think about it he defiantly got the short end of the stick... me a dress, him measuring cups. OH, Ashley. Anyway he sent me this thank you shortly after. I remember at the time being embarrassed because I thought he was making fun of me. But when Alden pulled this picture up yesterday all I could do was laugh my head off. HA! Look how well he mimicked my every move.

My husband is sweet and funny... two of the reasons I married him.

Tis the season!

2010-11-16T21:10:00.001-08:00

Tis the season for homemade
Homemade marble brownies in a homemade box
Today was my idea of a perfect afternoon: creativity + cooking

ps. tasted good too :)

Saturday Fun

2010-11-14T20:44:00.001-08:00

Went to our favorite beach.
I lost husbands shirt
husband bought a new shirt so we could take pics at sunset
husband bought me a new bag... just because
battery died in camera
no pics at sunset
still a fabulous day

Enjoy the pics we DID get :)

Saturday Fun | Sneak Peek

2010-11-13T22:44:00.000-08:00

More coming soon :)

Blog Stalker Dreams....

2010-11-11T13:45:00.003-08:00

Lets admit it.... we all blog stalk. And I'm as guilty as the last blogger. I had a dream last night about a blog I stalk. Don't worry the dream didn't include windows, binoculars, murder or even monkeys. Nope. I just felt like she needed a friend so I went over and visited her (I've never actually met her and I don't even know where she lives but you know how dreams are). We hung out and talked and she invited me to come back again and hang out in her Jasauna. Whats a Jasauna you ask? Oh don't worry its just a Jacuzzi and a Sauna put together. Pretty rad. So blog stalk away... its legal, allowed, and I might even say flattering. Anyone blog stalking me? :)

Harry Potter

2010-11-10T12:24:00.004-08:00

I don't consider myself to have any obsessions in life. I am no fanatic.
BUT Harry Potter, oh Harry Potter.... is as probably as close as it gets.
Husband and I have been preparing for the release of the final movie.
Last summer we went to the midnight showing. This summer we re-read the seventh book and as of late we have been watching each movie. We just finished movie number 5 and I LOVE that movie. Ah, it was so great. Then, last night, I saw this preview again and I could hardly contain myself. (Go watch it... now! Hurry!). So this year we are going to the midnight premier and we are dressing up and its going to be bliss and love, and I might cry.
But I'm not obsessed.

(cool photo via the www. doesn't it make you just want to be best friends with them?)

The daily bucket

Christmas with the Shaum's

No Place Like Home for the Holidays

Beard Party Photo Booth

Surprise Beard Party

The Man Gift Guide

The Creatives Gift Guide

In the Kitchen Gift Guide

House and Home gift guide

Girly Gift Guide

Sticky Monkey

Lost and Found

The clutter in your shoe box

The turkey and the lobster

Happy Thanksgiving

CA 1 Road Trip: The Big Picture

Road Trippin

BIRTHDAY WEEK

Happy Halloween

Top 10 Signs you are ready for you husband to come home.

Free Time Fix

The gift that keeps on giving...

Happy Anniversary!

Girls Reunion

Three Day Weekend

Wet your whistle...

Cottage Day 1: I have the best husband

Can you say Credenza?

PLAY BALL!

Dress Photo shoot

Picture mail

Garage selling and a sneak peak

Post Cinco De Mayo Post

Summers first swim!

Our new house

Bucket of Balls

A lesson in Hebrew

Pitas

Me, my man, and a whole lot of hockey.

A thought for your Thursday

Fred Larry

Easter DIY

BTW.... we are in Hawaii.

For my brother

Annnnd I'm back

Holga

New Hair

The Bag ladies

Split Second Decision

Riddle for your brains.

We have a winner!

Things that only marriage could teach me

Crépes!

Nerd Alert!

Our Suprise Night out!

Weekend Tunes

In my camera bag

Ashley's Web Favs

Secret Surprise

You've got Mail

Happy Birthday!

Hint or no hint?

Just some facts...

Weekend Getaway pics

Happy Valentines Day

The Perfect Daddy Daughter Date

A little Fresh Air

Spring has Sprung

I've never wanted to live in Texas till now...

Good news... and bad news.

Did I mention?....

Weekend Tunes

Roofing and Red nails

I think you should know...

Back to the grindstone

Weekend Tunes

Hello California

Goodbye Hawaii

Family Photos

Featured!