Last Post of 2009

Tuesday night Adam, Keilani, Justin, and I saw The Princess and the Frog. I liked it, though I was thinking that I can't see any of the songs being the next big Disney hit, as much as I enjoyed the jazz music. My favorite character was Ray, the firefly.

Yesterday we took family photos at the mall, and I must say, I like them! Our last family photo was taken over two years ago by a friend, and I did not like it. Unfortunately, my in-laws used it as their Christmas card. These ones came out really nice. We had photos taken of the entire family, all the kids, Mom and Dad, Adam and Keilani, me and Justin, and just Jessica. We got to keep a 10x13 and 4x6 family photo and 5 4x6 photos of me and Justin. Our photo is not my favorite, but it's still nice and the only nice one we have of us recently.

Today we spent hours watching "American Ninja Warrior." (Justin and I used to watch "Ninja Warrior" all the time in Utah. We do not get the channel in Arizona.) I recognized one guy from my stake. Unfortunately, he didn't make it all the way.

We went out to dinner at Tony Roma's. I haven't been there since I was like 10 or something. It wasn't as good as I remembered. Justin and I both agree that Goodwood in Orem is better. Now half the family is at Gramma's making donuts and playing games for New Year's while I'm here with Dad and Jessica, who are now both asleep.

I can't believe 2009 is over. It doesn't feel like a whole year has passed, and yet so much has happened this year that seems forever ago.

Family Fun

Sunday was the most fun day! Justin gave a talk in church about gratitude, and he did a great job. He hates public speaking, but that's what he gets when his dad is branch president. After church, everyone went to Gramma's for lunch and cake before the Larkins left for home. The rest of the day we spent time together talking and having fun. I played Primary songs on the piano (right hand only, of course), while Keilani and Krysta sang or guessed the song. Actually, Mom guessed most of them! We three girls and Justin and Adam played Spoons, a game I haven't played in years. We used to play it all the time at Girls' Camp. Justin won the first round. The second round Keilani got out first, but I let her play for me and she ended up winning! Then Gramma, Aunty Linn, and Mom joined us for Fact or Crap. Justin won by a lot. At home, Justin and I watched the movie about President Hinckley before bed. It was very cute and inspiring!

Yesterday I felt horrible, so I stayed in bed until 11. Mom made delicious homemade chicken noodle soup for lunch and Kahlua pork for dinner. In between were just movies (including watching Lilo & Stitch all the way through for the first time; it was ok) and Facebook and word search puzzles. Pretty much today is a repeat. I hate feeling yucky and tired.

Christmas

On the 23rd, we ate the corn bread (see previous post) and went out to dinner at Koreana, everyone's favorite Korean restaurant. Afterward, Adam, Justin, Jordan, and I watched Lion King 1 1/2. Such a funny movie! A family (the woman who did our wedding invitations) came over caroling and gave us really yummy cookies.

On the 24th, Mom made breakfast, and Justin, Jordan, and I watched Brother Bear. It was better than I remembered. Justin loves it because of the Canadian moose brothers. After the movie, I helped Mom and Aunty Laura wrap presents and then baked with Mom while the boys shoveled snow. They do so much baking here: chocolate-covered peanuts, sugar cookies, peanut butter cookies with Hershey kisses, Christmas hollies, sandies, chocolate balls, white-chocolate-covered popcorn, and divinity. We had bratwurst (first time for me--they were really fatty but very tasty!) at Gramma's. At home, we all watched an uplifting movie called The Christmas Shoes, during which the elders doorbell ditched us leaving cookies. The Larkins--Aunty Laura's family--and Keilani opened their Christmas pajamas before bed.

On Christmas day, Keilani woke us up at about 7. Everyone opened up presents at the same time, so it was a madhouse! Justin got candy and hot sauce in his stocking, a golf course GPS, and a pull-up bar from Mom and Dad and golf balls from Adam. I got candy and a little bottle of maple syrup in my stocking, a big jug of maple syrup (I hate the fake stuff but we can't afford the real stuff), a book binder/laminator, a cricut, and eucalyptus spearmint shampoo and conditioner from Mom and Dad. They also got us a framed set of the U.S. state quarters.

Then we headed to Gramma's for Uncle Kerry's omelets and more presents. Gramma gave Justin a bear ornament and me a pig one and both of us matching Aeropostale t-shirts and money. I also got a pig candy dispenser that oinks. Aunty Linn and Uncle Lee gave us cookies and the George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine. Uncle Kevin and his family gave us money. The Larkins also gave us money, the amount being such a huge blessing that I was at first completely speechless and then broke down in tears.

The rest of the day was spent in nonstop eating and hanging out. I read the December Ensign and tried taking several small naps. I was so tired and had a headache all day! Later we visited Justin's grandpa, who gave us a restaurant gift card. Afterward we went to a short, simple wedding and then ended the day with Alvin and the Chipmunks.

Today I just chilled; I slept in really late because I didn't sleep very well last night, or all week for that matter. I got to talk to the Lyles family and my grandma. Justin, Keilani, and I saw the Chipmunk Squeakquel; it was really cute. Theodore and Eleanor are my favorite. It's been a pretty laid back day recovering from Christmas.

For more photos, click here and here.

Corn Bread

This morning Gramma made the corn bread in four easy steps:

1. Mix some flour, salt, and red kidney beans.

2. Add boiling hot water.

3. Form the dough into a cake.

4. Boil for an hour.

It is so good! It has the consistency of tamales and the taste of grits. Apparently non-Oneida people (ok, specifically white people) don't really care for it because it's bland (although even Justin's family slathers it with butter and salt; then again, they do that to everything!). I think it tastes great plain or with a little butter. So much time and work to make corn bread from scratch, but definitely worth it!

Surprise!

We decided to surprise Justin's family for Christmas. At first no one but his aunt had any clue what was going on. But after some complications, the word spread to his grandma and uncle, and we told his mom we were coming out a week later than we really were. We flew out Sunday morning, and his aunt and uncle picked us up and took us to Gramma's house, where everyone congregates on Sunday (and almost every day, for that matter). The look on his mom's face was priceless. His dad came later, and that was even funnier.

Monday we went to Gramma's again and played with the Wii, a first for me. I'm not really into video games, but it was fun and I got to spend time with family members I rarely see. Then we went outside to sled. It was so much fun to be in the snow again! The weather here is not bad yet; it's similar to Utah's winter weather right now. I did have to bundle up a lot, though, and it reminded me of A Christmas Story, as much as I hate that movie. Even so, I still managed to get snow down my shirt by sledding forward on my tummy.

Today we went shopping (because everyone else procrastinated, jk) and then back to Gramma's. We helped her with the second stage of making white corn bread from scratch, and I mean from scratch! It's a three-day process: 1) partially boil dried corn kernels, 2) grind the corn and sift the flour, and 3) cook the bread. It's hard work but fun. I love Justin's heritage!

We had an early Christmas before we left for Wisconsin so we wouldn't have to pack presents. I got Justin a camera tripod so he can record and analyze his golf swing, the movies Elf and Invincible, a $5 gift card to Jack-in-the-box, and a weekly planner. He got me eucalyptus spearmint hand cream and hand soap from Bath & Body Works (I never believed in aromatherapy until I smelled eucalyptus spearmint! mmmmmmm), the dress I wrote about two posts ago, and a hair straightener. So far this Christmas has been great!

For more photos, click here.

Christmas Newsletter

Here is our Christmas newsletter! (Click on it for a larger image.) Update on our trip to Wisconsin coming soon. Have a very Merry Christmas, everyone!

Christmas Activities

A little update on what we've been doing in December:

1. We went to the mall a couple weeks ago, and I got an early Christmas present. There was this dress at Romy that I'd been eyeing for months. My mother-in-law offered to buy it for me last month, but I turned her down since it wasn't a need and she had already helped us out so much. When Justin and I went, I decided to see if the dress was still there to show Justin something I wanted for Christmas. It was on sale for $7.99! Definitely a tender mercy. Of course, I bought it.


We also saw these cute puppies spooning together! Awwww! And I got my engagement ring fixed for free. We went to that same jewelry repair shop a few weeks ago and got completely ignored. I decided we should try again. I asked the guy how much it would cost to get my ring fixed: it's had a loose prong for a long time. Another jewelry store had told me $15 and a week. This guy took it from me and got it fixed in a few minutes for free! Another tender mercy.


2. Our ward had a Christmas party last Saturday. We had a huge potluck dinner with lots of great food that went fast. Our bishop compared and contrasted Santa and Christ, the Primary kids sang some songs that few people listened to (I was a little upset), and then we left when Santa was coming. During the dinner, we sat by a family that is investigating the Church. They are moving, so I hope they like their new ward and get baptized.

3. The next day our stake had a community Christmas concert at the stake center. I was unaware of how they selected the musicians, because if I had known of auditions or requests, I would have done a flute duet or something. It was a beautiful, reverent concert. It made me miss the huge one my home stake does every year at the Escondido Center for the Arts. I did a flute trio for that when I was 17.

4. On Monday we saw the Christmas lights at the Mesa Temple for FHE. It was wonderful!

We went inside the Visitor's Center and watched a short video of Christ's birth, saw an International Nativity Display, and watched all the new Church commercials. The nativity scenes were so ornate! There is such talent and beauty in every culture.

For more pictures, click here.

New Calling

Yesterday was my first day as Nursery Coordinator, and let me tell you, it's a lot more work than you think! We have to:

• find parents of crying and stinky kids (biggest challenge for me since I've been in Primary the past year and don't know anyone!)
• buy and prepare snacks
• wash sippy cups
• clean the toys (every ward takes turns, and guess whose turn it was yesterday afternoon for almost two hours? and that was with the teachers' help!)
• set up the rooms with tables and chairs
• put everything away after church
• make copies for and give supplies to teachers
• find substitutes
• update the roll lists (we have just as much turnover as a BYU ward)
• assign kids to classes
• help out teachers in any way needed

I will be busy, busy, busy every Sunday for two hours. The other coordinator, Primary first counselor, and I are meeting Wednesday morning to organize everything. And we're hoping for a third coordinator.

I don't mind this new calling at all, but I must admit that I am disappointed that I still won't be going to Sunday School or Relief Society for who knows how long.

I have now realized the real world is not BYU. At BYU I had multiple opportunites for spiritual involvement and personal development: devotionals, religion classes, service activities, religious literature and media everywhere, lots of ward and stake activities, etc. The environment is clean and uplifting, and the people are happy and strong.

Now I am basically on my own. I don't even have church to fall back on anymore for adult interaction. I didn't realize how important they were to my spirituality until they were taken away. This realization has motivated me to start doing visiting teaching again, to start my unsuccessful Mormon Light blog, and to be better about FHE, personal scripture study, and temple attendance. But I really can't wait to attend those meetings again!

Jewelry

There is something innate in a woman that draws her to beautiful jewelry. I especially love necklaces. I have a lot of plain and low-cut tops that could use some adornment, and I think I have a pretty neck (is that a weird thing to say?). I also like earrings, although my ears aren't pierced. (I want them to be, but it's not at the top of my priority list.) Rings are gorgeous, as long as there are not too many and they are not really big. The only jewelry I don't like to wear is bracelets, because they dangle uncomfortably on my wrist since my wrist is small.

The jewelry below is from an Etsy shop for which my friend is doing another giveaway. What I love about her reviews and giveaways is that I don't have to search for all this lovely jewelry. Although not everything she likes is my taste, some or at least one thing from the shop is. Here's what I like from New Fashioned Whispers:

Another reason why I like her giveaways is that blogging about them reveals my tastes and personality to my readers, who hopefully will someday include my posterity. Thanks, Ashley, for sharing great stuff on your blog!

Goodbye, Sunbeams

Yesterday was our last day teaching Sunbeams. We found out right before going to Primary. Justin's new calling is Deacon's Quorum Advisor, and I am now a nursery coordinator (not sure what that is--something about bringing the snacks). I don't know if this means I will be in nursery or if I will get to go to Sunday School and Relief Society. I'll let you know when I call to find out! Our ward isn't very good about preparing you for callings; they kind of just throw you to the lions, like they did that fateful Sunday they called us to teach Sunbeams.

Anyway, here are some funny things our kids have said and done throughout the year:

1. Jacob, the most innocent-minded kid, showed me a small circle on the paper he was coloring and said, "Look! He has a penis!"
2. Another time he walked into class and I asked him how he was doing. He replied very seriously, "Yesterday I had diarrhea." I laughed, which surprised him, so I made a straight face and told him I was glad he was feeling better.
3. Early in the year Jacob grabbed a girl's hand and said they were going to be best friends. Then a couple weeks ago he did the same thing to a boy. I was surprised that particular boy let him!
4. Charly, the little girl whose hand Jacob grabbed, was the Little Miss Perfect/tattletale in our class. One Sunday we took a walk down the halls to the foyer. Some boys climbed on the couches and she said, "You're not supposed to put your shoes on the couch!"
5. Another day, out of nowhere, Charly boastingly said to me, "My dad is stronger than your-- [pause as she looked at Justin] than him!"
6. Benson was the shy, very quiet boy in the class. One Sunday his mom helped me out since Justin was sick, and I sent her a thank-you card in the mail. She later told me Benson carried it around the house with him all that day! I think he had a crush on me. haha.
7. Parker is the craziest handful, but extremely funny. He likes to eat his boogers and tell us to eat them too. He always smacks himself, falls off his chair, and hurts himself in some way. He also is very opinionated. He was sitting on Justin's lap one day and felt his beard stubble. "Ouch! That's sharp. Next week I don't want sharp!" The next week he felt my chin: "Is this one sharp? Nope, not sharp!"
8. Just yesterday, William lost his tooth in the middle of Primary. I gave it to his mother, who took him away for a while to make sure he was ok. He came back and sat down looking really sad. "Are you ok?" I asked him. He gave me the most defeated look and said, "I have to go to the doctor."
9. Sam is the one with a halo held up by devil horns. He can be sweet and reverent one second and bratty and rebellious the next. Last week I had the scriptures hidden under Justin's coat and I asked the kids to guess what was hidden. Sam shouted out, "Skateboards!" I answered no and gave a clue: "It's kinda hard." "Oh!" Sam shouted again. "Then it's a coconut!" I tried one last time: "It's something you read." Sam got it. "The scriptures!"
10. The other Sunbeam class has a really cute girl, who, when asked what kind of mom she wants to be, said, "A doctor!"

There have been 7 other kids in our class throughout this year, for a total of 13 kids we've taught (the most being 10 at once; we ended with 9), but I can't remember anything funny they said. I will miss them all--their sweet smiles, energy, excitement, and eagerness to pray and help out. But I definitely won't miss all the crankiness, brattiness, and hyperness!

Rotten Luck

Today I tried having another yard sale. I had two customers, one who bought laundry detergent for $5 (a dollar short of covering the cost of poster paper and price stickers) and one who was looking for something specific.

I tried my best. Our ward is against any soliciting of any kind, so I could not spread the word to the women. And the location of my house is terrible. My neighbor (the second customer) informed me she saw some people drive by the front. I didn't think of putting a sign there because all the traffic is in the back, where the yard sale is set up. I put a sign saying to go to the back, but no one else came. Only one family was out walking, and although they passed by twice, they didn't come look. Plus the weather was freezing! It was beautiful the entire week except for today--of course.

I'm going to keep some items, donate others, and try to sell the rest on Craigslist. Wish me better luck!

Oops!

I went to the campus computer lab with Justin this morning and received a phone call, which I did not answer. I listened to the voicemail a few minutes later: it was my manager calling me asking why I wasn't at work. Oops! I wrote down last week's schedule! I ran all the way home, in boots, and rushed to work. I ended up being over an hour late. My manager wasn't mad and she was nice enough to let me make up the hour I missed, for which I was very grateful, not only because I need the hours, but also because I had a long list of things to do!

Thanksgiving

For this Thanksgiving, my family drove to our house. They came in early Thursday morning. My little sister helped me cook everything while Mom made the turkey. Justin invited his golf buddy over, so in all there were 7 of us, probably our smallest gathering since we were little. We stuffed ourselves silly, actually being able to eat together at the table since the Lyles (my brother's family) weren't there. Then we did our family tradition (the Turkey Wobble), played Loaded Questions (thanks, Francine!) and died laughing, ate pumpkin pie and pineapple, and watched Night at the Museum. It was a relatively quiet but very fun Thanksgiving.

The next day I had work, so my family just chilled while Justin did homework. That evening we posted yard sale signs, walking for a total of an hour. I took my mom to Goodwill and then we came home to eat leftovers and watch Enchanted. My mother also got Justin to finally put up some pictures, and a shelf the next day! I found the ballroom one for $15 at Goodwill months ago. We bought the shelf at IKEA in May and I decided to put all our Japanese stuff on it. There are other things we put up, but I didn't take a picture of them all.


Saturday morning we attempted a garage sale, but the very windy, chilly weather and my lack of proper advertising made us cancel it after an hour. I am trying again this Saturday if the weather permits. We put up the tree while Justin and Stevie played Stratego, a treat for Justin since I refuse to play. Then we made turkey soup and muffins while the boys played Risk. After dinner we exchanged Christmas gifts. My mom got Justin two golf books and me shirts, jewelry, stationery, and 3 more things to put around the house. Then came the goodbyes. As much as my family drives me crazy, I cried when they left.

Oh, to Be a Little Girl Again!

My friend is doing another very cute Etsy giveaway: flower dolls! Although I never was really into dolls, these are so adorable and elegant and can be made into ornaments. A few of my favorites:





They can also be customized, so of course I would make them all brunettes! Click here to enter this giveaway!

Smiley Sunday

Today was our ward's Primary Program. Our little Sunbeams behaved surprisingly well--definitely an answer to my prayers! They weren't perfect, but they listened to us, sang, and said their parts perfectly. I was so proud of them. They are so cute!

After church I went visiting teaching, and it put me in a great mood. I wish I had been better about it before: this is the first time I've done it since we moved here. My interview with the Relief Society president (and mother of one of my Sunbeams) really motivated me to do better. And I enjoyed visiting teaching today so much that I can't wait for next month to do it again! Of course, I don't have to wait until then to talk to my sisters, but I like having a companion, going to their homes, bringing them something, and preparing a message. Visiting teaching is truly an inspired program. If you haven't done yours yet, call your sisters today!

*Later*
Justin and I just spent the last hour playing Mad Libs. We had some great laughs! I love that game!

*Next morning*
We went to bed and spent half an hour dying of laughter over some stupid joke I made. (Well, Justin was mostly laughing at me since I snort and make other funny noises when I laugh.) I haven't laughed that hard in a long time!

Chicken Soup and Lemonade

Last night I went to a Relief Society activity with a theme of the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series. One sister spoke about gratitude, and then we all had yummy chicken soup in bread bowls. The one I tried was so delicious! I wish whoever made it had brought the recipe.

After dinner, another sister spoke about the trials she has had throughout life, such as infertility, divorce, a brain tumor, and a child with Down Syndrome. She titled her talk "My Life with a Lemon Tree and a Bowl of Sugar." Although I have heard "When life hands you lemons, make lemonade" all my life and gotten annoyed with it, this sister made me see it in a new light. She talked about the tree of life from Lehi's dream, which represents the plan of salvation, and how that is the source of sugar. When we use the plan of salvation (sugar) to get through our trials (the lemons), we have lemonade. She closed with, "After a while I stopped labeling things lemons and sugar, because things I thought were lemons ended up being sugar, and things I thought were sugar were also tart. I learned to put the lemons and sugar together and see and enjoy life as lemonade."

Wow. I never thought of it that way; maybe you have. Usually I thought of the quote as meaning we have to add the sugar to life's lemons in order to make lemonade. But in reality, the sugar comes from the gospel and the Atonement of Jesus Christ. When we allow Him to carry our burdens, the trials seem not as tart. We still taste it and learn from it, but we can swallow it, and even enjoy it, thanks to the added sweetness of the Savior.

After the sister spoke, the floor was open for anyone to bear her testimony. I learned that a lot of the sisters in the ward have had very serious trials. And yet they are all so strong and great examples to me! I am so glad I went to the activity. Besides the physical and spiritual nourishment I received, it was nice to talk to and spend time with women. I can't wait to go back to Relief Society, as much as I love my Primary kids!

p.s. This is my 100th blog post! (Though over the years, I have deleted 3, so technically it's my 103rd.)

Super Saturday

Justin and I had a great day yesterday! It started out with a Primary activity. We practiced for the Primary Program, which is next Sunday, and then learned about different countries. Pizza and yummy ethnic food samples were included. I was a little disappointed they didn't ask us to do a room. We could've done Japan; someone else did Puerto Rico, though I would have had so much fun with that and made arroz con leche or tembleque.

We spent the remainder of the day Christmas shopping. Although not my normal behavior to think about anything Christmas before December 1, I wanted to get a head start so it would be out of the way. We found some presents and ideas for others and got great deals (of course). We didn't get home until after 9 p.m! We started watching Spider-man 2 but zonked out halfway through. It was a really fun day with Justin. I haven't spent that much time with him since I don't even know, because that was my first Saturday off in forever! And our last date night was the corn maze a month ago. I can't wait to do it again!

Me (Dedicated to Kara)

My friend Kara tagged me in her blog post revealing 10 honest facts about herself. I learned a lot about her, and so I want to do the same. I won't tag any of you because I doubt you'll do it, but I would love comments with little things about you.

1. More than anything in this world, I want to be a mommy. I have never been career oriented or ambitious although I am very smart. My ultimate goal has always been to be a stay-at-home mom doing some hobbies (like editing and writing) on the side for fun, not for money.
2. I hate Christmas music. There are songs I like to listen to and sing, but I think they get old and over played really fast. I try to listen to Christmas music as little as possible, since it's played everywhere I go, and only when I need to get in a Christmasy mood.
3. Sometimes I feel like there are two sides of me: a tough-girl heroine that wants to save the day and beat everybody up and a sweet angel that despises evil and wouldn't harm a fly. In reality, I am neither. (And if I try to be either, it comes out as feisty or self-righteous.)
4. I am very hard on myself. I can be very judgmental about others too, but I am just as judgmental on myself. I hate hypocrisy.
5. If I were rich, I would use all my money to bless others. I think extravagance is unnecessary and selfish.
6. One of my strongest traits is compassion. When others are sad or crying, it makes me sad or cry too. I really try to make others happy.
7. I am such a kid at heart! I love kid movies, books, and toys. The only thing I don't like is kid food, except macaroni and cheese.
8. At times I love being alone and have no desire for any social contact at all (I get this from my mom). Other times I crave people, crowds, parties, friends, and other social interaction (I get that from my dad).
9. I wish I were super talented in one area. I have many talents, but I'm stuck in the intermediate level in all of them. Most of that is my fault due to laziness (like flute playing), but some of it is not (like singing).
10. I have a hard time viewing myself as an adult since nobody else does. Most people think I am a lot younger than I am and treat me accordingly, especially at church. I feel like people see me as a young, inexperienced, babyless newlywed (which I guess I am) instead of a mature married college graduate trying to become a mother. Why does being short make so much difference in how I am treated?

For fun facts, read my old post "Random Things about Me."

Justin's Family's Visit

While Justin's family was here last week, I had work off, so I was able to spend time with them. The first day we all went to IKEA. We had lunch there too--first time for me even though I've been to IKEA a million times. Then we split up, guys to the golf course, girls to the mall. We shopped around, saw Ponyo at the dollar theater (cute but weird movie), and shopped around some more. Keilani is quite the little shopper already and she's only turning 8! haha. That night I made oven-fried chicken, oven-roasted red potatoes, homemade biscuits, and salad. Then we watched Enchanted together since Adam hadn't seen it.

Friday the guys went golfing again, and we girls went to the outdoor mall. I'm actually ok on clothes; the only things I really need are black and white light cardigans to wear to church because I get cold. The only ones I have ever found were $5 on the clearance rack at Papaya months ago, and for some dumb reason I didn't buy them. Definitely regretting it now. Anyway, I did find some stuff at Macy's. I got a really cute salmon jacket for $10 (originally $68) and a long skirt in similar colors for $6 (originally $42) in the petites section. I was especially excited by the skirt because finding long skirts that fit me perfectly lengthwise is impossible! (I think the long shirt in the picture makes me look shorter though.) My mother-in-law paid for them, even though I could afford them, but I didn't feel bad since they were such a deal!

We then went grocery shopping at Sam's Club, which is actually hard to do for just two people. We did find 6 black stackable chairs for $20 each to go with our new table. [Justin's grandpa had a table for us that is the square version of the one Justin's family has (shown below). Justin's family brought it back with them from their visit to the grandparents in Vegas. Our old table, which we bought secondhand when we first moved here, is ok, but the legs are getting wobbly, and we only have three matching chairs; the fourth broke within a couple months.]

I had a small Mary Kay pampering party that evening--just us girls and one other friend--and then we went out to dinner at a Japanese restaurant. The family left early Saturday morning. It was great to see everybody.

Brief Update

I got hired on permanently at Party City and am being fully trained. I worked the balloon counter for the first time on Tuesday and didn't do too bad. Justin's family returned yesterday and is staying until Saturday. This morning we're going to IKEA because my mother-in-law has never been there (we took my father-in-law when we first moved here). Justin's dad cooked a delicious meal last night, I'm cooking tonight, and tomorrow we're eating out at my favorite Japanese restaurant that I haven't been to since I think my birthday--can't wait! That's about it for now.

I Miss My Sweetheart

Justin's family came into town Thursday afternoon. They all left yesterday to visit family in Vegas. I couldn't go because of work. This is the first time I've been apart from Justin at night since we've been married. He'll be back Sunday afternoon. I cried last night. Absence really does make the heart grow fonder. I didn't realize how much I love him and miss him until I came home and he wasn't there to greet me with a hug and kiss and cuddle with me at night. In thinking of him, I put together my favorite pictures showing the silly, cute side of my sweet husband:

Costume Drama

[I wrote this yesterday morning. Things have changed since then. Continue reading to find out how!]

And the winner is . . . the pirate costume! Here's how it happened (see the "Halloween Costumes" post for background info): Last week Friday Justin and I were supposed to meet somebody after I got off work, but she cancelled at the last minute. So after chilling a bit, we went back to Party City to try on costumes. Only, when we got there, they were closing in a couple minutes! My coworker had given me the wrong closing time. I didn't want to make a rush decision, so I put the costume on hold.

The next day, one girl kept trying on a million costumes but couldn't find one that fit and she liked. She chose the pirate one in a small size. No more left--except mine. So I gave it to them and they ended up buying it. It wasn't until that moment that I realized how much I really did like it. I was in such a sad mood after that!

After work I went into the back to look for costumes for me and Justin to try on. I checked the box of the pirate costumes just in case (the guys are notorious for overlooking costumes) and I found another small in the back of the box! Woohoo! I kinda felt bad that the girl got the one I already wore, but oh well!

I tried on a few more and we got it down to the pirate or the rag doll. I loved the firewoman one, but didn't want to spend $40 on it. (Good news: I found it at Target for $25! If it's still there after Halloween, I'm so buying it for next year.) The "Cruise Cutie" costume Justin didn't like. And actually, although you all loved it, it was my least favorite. The small was too loose; I tried the XS yesterday and couldn't even put it on. (The sizes are so weird. I wear a junior small for the rag doll and it fits perfectly, but some adult smalls are loose on women larger than me and some are so tight I can hardly put them on!) The rag doll one I get so many compliments on (I've worn it 3 times now), but it's too expensive and short. So the pirate one won: $35 for the dress, tights, arm warmers, hip wrap, and headband. And it's comfortable and cute. I'm wearing it today and tomorrow.

Justin ended up getting an Indiana Jones jacket and hat with a whip for next year. He looks so cute! I wish he were here on Halloween and we had a party to go to so we could wear our costumes.

[Now the update:]

Yesterday morning I tried on the whole costume and HATED it! The fishnet stockings did not look good on me. I still think the dress and headband are cute on me, but the colors and style are not me. I don't know what I was thinking when I bought it.

After my shift, I debated over what I should exchange my costume for. It took me 1 1/2 hours to decide (yeah, I am terrible at making decisions!). I got it down to the rag doll, since everyone loved it, and the Kandy Korn witch, which I thought was really cute. They are the same price.

I decided on the Kandy Korn witch. I like it better than the rag doll because it is more modest and versatile, thus worth the price: I can wear the costume as intended (dress, hat, stockings--with shorts, of course), the dress over pants, or the hat by itself. I love the Halloween colors, too. Plus, since only Jr. M/L was left, there's some room for growth. haha. I think I looked adorable (except in this photo), and I got as many compliments on it today as I do with the rag doll. Yay! I am happy with my decision. Sadly, since the housing complex had trunk-or-treating and a Halloween party last night, no trick-or-treaters came tonight so I was all prepared for nothing. Oh, well.

p.s. More photos on Facebook of my other costumes!

Quick Rebuttal

For all those who commented on my rant and rave post about customers:

1. The customer is not always right in retail. If they're planning a wedding or getting a haircut, then yes, they are right, because those things are a matter of personal opinion. Even so, wedding planners and hair stylists are there to give advice. For my job, there is nothing to be right about. We either have something or we don't. The return policy is the same. Sizes vary according to costume. The end.
2. I know exactly how customers feel--I am one! As I wrote in the post, this is my first time on the other side of the fence. Now I understand how workers feel and I try to be a nicer shopper. That's all I was saying.
3. People really are stupid. Other customers admit it too when they see someone do or say something really dumb. In fact, one lady even apologized to me later after we had a misunderstanding.
4. I am very patient and polite with customers, so much so that I sell a lot, am given lots of compliments from customers, and was even offered a tip once. I wrote the blog to vent to my friends instead of yelling at customers. I wasn't expecting such unsympathetic replies.

People are S-T-U-P-I-D!

Sorry, I need to vent. I've never worked retail before my current job, and the only other customer service job I've had was three years ago at Baskin Robbins. I love my job, but now I feel like the camel waiting for the last straw to break it's back. People are just so stupid, I want to yell at them and punch them in the face! Quick background: I work at the costume wall and Halloween area at Party City. When it gets busy, I stand on a stepladder and use a walkie-talkie to communicate with the backroom for costume calls. At the wall, I clearly and loudly say every five minutes or so, "If you need a costume, please form a line here and tell me the size and number." Yesterday, I added, "All sizes are listed on the posters." People just don't get it. This is what I wish I could scream at them:

1. Do you know what a line means? Seriously.
2. Don't assume that after you tell me the costume, you can go away. This is not McDonald's; we don't call out your number. If you want a response, then stay in line until I tell you where to get the costume! I hate hollering at you. And don''t get mad at me if I won't help you once you leave the line. Sorry!
3. I don't know what size your kids are. I don't shop for them and do their laundry. I don't know their age, height, and weight. If you, their own parent, don't know, then what makes you think I do? And check the posters to see what sizes the costumes come in instead of giving me nonexistent sizes.
4. If a costume is not on the wall, then we don't have it. Just because you found it online, doesn't mean our store has it. If a poster is covered up, we are out of that costume. Duh.
5. How would you feel if I came over to your house, touched everything, tried everything on, threw everything on the floor, stepped on and broke your stuff, and then left?
6. If you're not looking to buy, then get your grubby hands off the merchandise! It's not a playground or modeling studio.
7. Watch your bratty kids! If they don't know how to behave themselves in public, leave them at home!
8. Just because you said "Excuse me" doesn't mean I'm going to ignore the customer I'm currently helping and give you all my attention. Wait your turn!
9. Is it so hard to put something back where you found it? If it's too high up or the hanger is broken, leave it neatly on the shelf, not on the floor!
10. You complain to me how ripped and smelly and destroyed the costumes look while I watch you stuff one that is too small back into the package, breaking the bag while you're at it, with one hand holding your drink that you will forget in another aisle, and spilling the accessories all over the floor to accidentally run over with your cart or foot. Hmmm.

Please, readers, next time you shop anywhere, don't be stupid! Read the signs, ask questions politely, wait patiently, don't be mad at the workers for something that is not their fault, treat the merchandise carefully, and be respectful. Thanks!

p.s. In case you haven't figured it out yet, the customer service you receive is a reflection of the attitude you give.

Haircut

Thursday I finally got my haircut! I was going to wait until I could afford to go to Rolf's salon again (where I got my hair done in May, the last time I cut it), but we got coupons in the mail for Great Clips, so I went with Justin. My hair was just getting too long and wild and hard to take care of. The lady who did my hair was great. I showed her pictures of my last haircut. She got it done right and fast. I had to straighten it myself at home, so it's not as pretty looking as my last haircut, but it's definitely cute! Justin's haircut came out nice as well. His hair was so long and curly, especially his sideburns. I'm glad we both went and got great deals and great results!

Halloween Costumes

I'm still alive! I'm doing better, but still congested, coughing, and sneezing. However, my spunkiness and speed are back at work (my boss and coworkers noticed a big difference while I was sick!).

I'm trying to decide on a Halloween costume even though I am doing absolutely nothing for Halloween. Our ward is not having a party because Stake Conference is that weekend. I don't know if the schools are doing anything, and even so, they're usually geared toward kids. I work Halloween. I have no friends, so I'm not going to any parties. There is a giant clean party for singles, but obviously I don't qualify for that. And Justin won't be with me that weekend anyway. I'm hoping there will still be trick-or-treaters when I get off work at 7 so I can dress up and pass out candy. I love seeing kids in costumes!

I've been wearing a costume every day at work for the past two weeks (for photos, click here). At first I only wore accessories, such as cat ears, until one day Saturday when I was told I was allowed to wear a full costume. I loved it so much that I asked my manager if I could wear one everyday, and she said yes. When I am ever going to get the oportunity again to wear any costume I want for free? As for buying one, I got it down to 4 options:

1. "Hot Stuff"
Plus: It's a lot longer on me than on the model and it flatters my figure!
Minus: Not worth the price, even with a 30 percent discount. And I still have to wear shorts underneath.


2. "Cruise Cutie"
Plus: Totally adorable and original! Very modest.
Minues: Price again. And it's white--I am guaranteed to ruin it! Also, the hat doesn't stay on and the dress is a bit big (but they do have an XS I could try on).


3. "Jewel of the Sea"
Plus: So cute on me! Very comfortable and affordable.
Minus: Still have to wear shorts. A little too punk for my taste. Tempted to buy a million pirate accessories!

4. "Rag Doll"
Plus: By far the cutest on me. (I forgot to take a picture that day because I was rushed during closing time. Just imagine me in it with full-length stockings and no wig or platforms.)
Minus: Price--just the costume is $50. Plus I would have to buy full-length stockings (wearing shorts underneath) or bloomers (cute, but where to get them?) because the skirt is barely a skirt.

Right now I'm leaning toward #3. What do you think?