My Birthday 2006

My birthday this year was the best one yet. I wasn't expecting any surprises, but I was looking forward to a perfect day. Brock had told me well in advance that I would be getting a day at the spa for my present. It included a massage, facial, body-wrap, manicure and pedicure. I was very excited about it. My parents and Gordon had already given me my present as well, a pair of very pretty gold Brighton shoes.

At my big family birthday dinner I got a few little presents (socks, treats, and a pretty copy of "the little mermaid" book from Karren). Alli showed me my present, which wasn't finished yet. It was a painting of the Oakland Temple and I had wanted her to paint me one for months. I was absolutely content...but there was more to come.

Very early on my birthday morning I got my biggest surprise. Brock and I woke-up to take a little test and discovered, to our delight, that I was pregnant! Happy birthday to me! We knew it was too early to tell anyone else about Baby, but the knowledge he/she was there added something extra special to the day.

We slept in after that and then had Brunch at a fun little cafe in Down Town Palo Alto (Can't remember what it was called). After we had eaten Brock dropped me off at the nearby spa and told me to call when I was done. I enjoyed every minute of that day, though by the time I was done I was tired and ready to go home. Four hours later I emerged relaxed and glowing.

Brock said he had made dinner plans and when I got in the car to go home, he showed me that he had rented a movie I had wanted to see for a long time. He was very sweet to get it, since he had no interest in it himself. We got home and it took me a minute to realize that Brock's dinner plans were not a reservation. He was going to cook!

Now Brock doesn't like to cook, though he's very good at it, so this was a real treat. He had called his mom and my dad asking for recipes and advice. The result was very tasty! We had Beef Stroganoff and Cesar Salad. The next course was steamed artichokes with lemon flavored mayonnaise (Very, very good!) and we ended up with a decadent chocolate cake.

We spent the rest of the evening watching my movie and relaxing together, all the while reveling in the knowledge that we were going to be parents some time in the spring. What a lovely birthday and what a perfect time to find out that Baby was coming at last!

Newly Dating

I was a little nervous going with Brock to his brother Greg's reception. I had met Brock's parents and Greg only once (Greg ran in the door, excited and energized, complaining that he had been stung by a bee on his ring finger-it ended up swollen and he couldn't get his wedding ring on for a few days), but I didn't know anyone else. I was still a little shy about being Brock's girlfriend and it's a little difficult meeting a ton of new people at once anyway.

The reception was held in her family's back yard (I think) and it was very lovely. They had a tent and beautiful flowers. I had never seen Courtney before and I thought she was so pretty and tiny. Brock had to run and change in the house, so I found myself being escorted around by Brad (aka Daddy Lyle). He introduced me to dozens of people, including Matt and Buffy. Buffy gave me huge hug and informed me that she was glad I was dating Brock and that she liked me already.

Brad stayed with me until we found Ally and she welcomed me happily. The first thing she did was ask me if her dress had been tied in a bow in the back. She said she didn't care for bows and could I just make it a simpler knot? By this time I felt like one of the family, but I was very happy when Brock came out again and found me.

The rest of the evening is a bit of a blur. I remember a lot of things happening, but I don't remember the order in which they happened, so I'll just list them off as they come to mind.

We met a lot of people and most of them asked when Brock and I were going to get married. It should have been embarrassing, but it wasn't. I thought it was funny and very typical of a large group of friends at a wedding reception to have marriage on their minds. Later, when Brock and I were sitting quietly together by ourselves, he said, "I don't know why everyone keeps asking if we're getting married. If we were engaged, I'd be shouting it from the rooftops!" Without thinking about how it would sound, I said, "So would I!" We were both a little embarrassed at how blunt we'd been, but we meant it, so we weren't sorry we'd said it.

I remember dancing with Brock in the corner of the yard while Greg and Courtney danced to their song. Matt and Buffy danced too. It was very sweet.

When the photographer came around I was asked to be in the family pictures and, oddly enough, I didn't mind. Everyone was so insistent and sweet about it, that there was no awkwardness. It seemed the most natural thing in the world to be in the pictures. Besides, Brock told me beforehand that there had already been pictures taken without me in them.

The best part, though, was when Brad and Ally asked me to stay over for the night so I could see Brock a little more before he left for school the next morning. I was so happy I couldn't even try to say no. The chance to spend an extra evening and morning with Brock was too good to pass up. They said I could stay in the spare room and, after Brock was gone, they would take me home.

That night we (Brad, Ally, Brock and I) stayed up until nearly midnight getting to know each other. We talked until we remembered how early Brock had to leave and then went off to bed. The next morning Brock kissed me goodbye and I went back to bed for a few hours (he left VERY early) and felt a sickening emptiness inside when I thought how I wouldn't see him for another three weeks.

By the River

When Brock picked me up to go down the river he brought me a flower. It was a good start to the date. As we drove to the river it started raining and Brock was worried that we wouldn't be able to go, but the rain wasn't too heavy and we had a great time setting up the boats and getting very wet. We got a nearby fisherman to take a picture of us just before we went down. It's one of my favorite pictures of us.

We had to have one car on each end of the river, so there was a lot of driving before we could head down. Just before we took Brock's car down it stoped raining. I asked Brock if my running make-up made me look like a racoon. He cupped my face in his hands, wiped my eyes with his thumbs and said, "only a little." We looked at each other and then I kissed him.

It was a very quick kiss, but very magical. I was embarrassed, though. I had nevr kissed a guy first. Still, he seemed to like it and, after all, I did tell him he wasn't allowed to touch me. As we went to the cars after that he turned and said, "How am I supposed to concentrate now?" Well, it was only fair. I couldn't see straight either.

We held hands as we floated down the Provo River and had a lovely day. The sun came out as soon as we got in the water and stayed out all day. When we got out he kissed me and invited me to come up to Park City for dinner. I changed back at my appartment and then we headed up to Park City. I had only been there once before and that was at night. Park City is really beautiful. We went to dinner at an Italian place that I can't remember the name of. It was so good! Mostly I remember the dessert. It was a giant chocolate chip cookie with loads of ice cream on top. WOW! We were very full and didn't have much room for it, but it was amazing!

After dinner we went to his parents' house and chatted for a long time about how we would manage a long distance relationship. He parents came in after a while and I got to meet them. Brock's dad gave me a big hug and I remember thinking his mom was amazingly beautiful. We talked for a while and then Brock took me home. We made plans for him to pick me up the naxt day so I could go with him to his brother's recpetion.

On my doorstep Brock gave me a kiss and said, sounding amazed, "You're real!" I was in shock too. We had gone from casual dating to a couple overnight. What a wonderful surprise!

An important phone call

When I left for school I wasn't sure how I felt about Brock, but when he called me a week or two later I was very happy to hear from him. We talked for a couple of hours and he told me he was on his way to Utah to stay for the weekend before going back to school in St Louis. His youngest brother, Greg, was getting married and he was staying for it. He was hoping we could do something together while he was in town.

I was thrilled. He suggested kayaking down the Provo River and I was very excited-I love Kayaking! Then he added that he would like me to come to his brother's reception with him, but didn't want to pressure me, so it was okay if I didn't feel comfortable with it. I told him I would think about it and decide when we went kayaking. He was fine with that. When we got off the phone, I sat there for a few minutes just smiling to myself. I think that's when I realized I liked Brock more than I'd thought.

Later I found out a few fun little details about his side of this conversation. I found out that he practiced what to say to me for an hour before calling. He even called his mom for advice. Finally, he called me. At one point during the conversation we lost the connection. He told me later that he pulled over, off the freeway, and parked on the side of the road to make sure we had good reception. He sat there for at least an hour. Well, at least it worked.

Last Date (in California)

The week before I left for school, Brock took me out one last time (or so I thought). He told me to dress up, but the rest would be a surprise. I was excited, but nervous-I hadn't brought anything dressy home from BYU. Mom helped me in my panic and set out to find a little black dress. On the morning of the date she came home from Happy Dragon (our favorite thrift shop) with a soft velvety black dress, just my size. It was machine washable and very pretty-if only it fit me...it did! It was cut as though made for my body. Mom threw it in the wash and it came out like new. No one would ever know it cost $4.

Anyway (I had to slip that little story in!), that night Brock picked me up, all dressed up, and gave me a flower. I was very pleased and put it in a vase right away. When we got to the car there was another flower waiting in my seat! I think the first one was a sunflower and this one was a pink popcorn flower-so pretty! He still wouldn't tell me where we were going, but that was half the fun! It was fine, I had secrets of my own (namely the French pastries in a little cooler I had brought).

When we got to San Francisco and had parked the car Brock handed me another flower (a red carnation, I think). At this point I got the idea that random flowers were going to be produced at charming intervals throughout the night. Very happy! He took me to a lovely little French restaurant in the French quarter of San Fran. We ate muscles and fries (a Belgian dish, I think he said) and he ordered everything in French. I loved it!

He mentioned dessert, but I told him dessert was in the car. We headed back to the car and I think I slipped the pastries into a little bag, so we wouldn't have to carry the cooler, but we may have actually brought the cooler with us. I can't remember. Anyway, he still didn't know what they were, and I still didn't know where else we were going.

When we got to the theater, though, it didn't take me long to know what we were doing. He had found a little theater group performing "The Fantasticks!" and he knew it was my favorite musical. While we waited (very excitedly) to be seated, I gave Brock his dessert. He was thrilled to find I had bought him a Napoleon from the French Pastrie in Los Gatos. He had told me it was his favorite. He sat there, in his nicest French suit, and made the biggest mess I'd ever seen out of that little thing. It was the cutest thing! He had just finished when we were called to sit down.

We sat in the front row and had a marvelous time! The actors were wonderful and all of them could really sing! I had always wanted to see "Fantasticks" done professionally and it was just as fun as I'd hoped! I don't think Brock had ever seen that show and we both enjoyed it very much.

When we got back to the car I got another flower and we headed home. We talked happily the whole drive, though I kept thinking about how I probably wouldn't see him again. I was sorry for it, but it couldn't be helped. We had to go back to school. When we got to the house. He gave me one last flower (a rose) and I invited him in to meet my parents.

I had warned him that Dad was a little intimidating, but he wasn't scared at all. He shook Dad's hand (and Mom's of course) and in no time all three of them were chatting away like old friends. I was very tired and it was late, so I tried to signal Mom and Dad. They ignored me completely and gave Brock a tour of the house! Finally, sometime after midnight, Brock and I said goodbye at the door. We hugged (a little bit awkwardly, since he had a box of pastries in his hand) and I told him it had been a nice summer. He left and I thought that was the last time I would see him.
Thank heaven I was wrong!

Third Date

When Brock called me for our third date, I was surprised...thrilled, but surprised. I didn't think any guy would ask a girl out after she had told him not to touch her. I was very pleased to go out with him again, especially when he told me he wanted to go to the circus! (Really, how can you say no when every date is so cleverly planned?)

We drove out to a mall parking lot in the middle of nowhere and there was a giant tent set up for a traveling circus. It was a very good circus. The animals were well trained, the acrobats were wonderful, and the food was expensive. We didn't get any snacks, but Brock kept asking me if I wanted any of the little toys or balloons they were selling. I said no, but then this man walked by with the most alluring little toy and I gave in.

Gordon calls it the seizure wand. It was a clear plastic ball on a shiny red stem. If you pushed a tiny button little lights inside lit up and spun so fast that it looked like a miniature light show. We got endless fun out of that toy and the children in the row in front of us were so jealous! One boy in particular demanded one from his mother, and when she said no he sent us dagger-looks for the rest of the night. It was a wonderful toy. I still have it, actually.

After the show we walked over to Red Robin for burgers. Brock says he watched me take down a massive bacon burger and thought he'd never seen anything so sexy. Hmm. They were very good burgers. Then we drove home. I remember sitting in the car listening to him sing to the radio and thinking, "Well, I wouldn't mind if he kissed me after all!" I even looked at his hand, resting on the seat next to him and had to subdue the impulse to hold it.

When we got to my door, I gave him a kiss on the cheek, as well as a hug. He had definitely earned it and I hoped he would call me at least one more time before I had to leave for school in a few weeks.

Second Date

I had decided not to go out with Brock again, but when he called I wanted to go. (He actually left a message saying, "I promised to teach you how to golf, so which is better? Tuesday or Wednesday?" There's no room for "no" in that.) So I said I'd go, but I made up my mind that if he tried to take my hand or put his arm around me I would tell him not to do it.

We went out for Indian food at this tiny little place in Los Gatos. It was very good, but that's all I remember about it. From there we went to a driving range, I think it was called Pruneridge, in Campbell. Brock was very pleased with my progress in the end. He admired my "kill the ball" technique, saying that most girls he knew held back, afraid of hurting the grass. I had no such reservations (sorry grass) and whacked the living daylights out of every ball. Brock did help me adjust my hip movement, but that was all in the name of "teaching" and I actually liked it a lot (though I was furious with myself for it).

When we had run out of golf balls we decided to spend the rest of the evening at the park near my house. They have a nice set of swings and we played around for about fifteen minutes. And then...Brock put his arms around me and I knew it was time to let him know how I felt about that.

I basically told him, "no hand-holding, no kissing, no arm around me, only hugs are okay." He took it very well, saying it made dating very easy, since he didn't have to try and guess when it was time to kiss. He also said he was dating about ten girls and he wasn't looking for a girlfriend either. And that was when the jealousy began. I should have known how much I liked him when I felt that green monster eating at me, but I ignored it. We had a good long talk and then he took me home.

We hugged and as he walked away I thought, "Drat! Now he'll never call me again!" He was thinking, "I wonder what she'd like to do next time?"

July 9, 2004 - First Date

The first thing we did was eat dinner. Brock asked me where I wanted to go, since he wasn't familiar with Los Gatos. I wasn't sure how much he wanted to spend, so I gave a him three choices: Taco Bell, Willow Street (Italian), and the best Steakhouse in town. He chose Willow Street and we got a lovely view of Los Gatos downtown as we ate on the patio.

It was very pretty out that evening. The sun was just going down, so everything had that soft, twilight glow. The only down side was the yellowjacket invasion. They seemed to like me or my food, or both, and Brock had a time trying to keep me calm. Setting that aside, dinner was wonderful. We talked about his law school friends and his family, and he asked me about my family and grad school. We had plenty of time before the concert, so we just relaxed and enjoyed the evening.

From there we drove down 17 to Santa Cruz and the Boardwalk. It was a thirty minute drive, so we had plenty of time to get to know each other. Mostly we sang. Brock played Josh Groban and the soundtrack from the Beauty and the Beast on Stage. He sang it all and I was mesmerized by his fantastic voice. Sometimes I sang with him, but mostly I just enjoyed his singing. I remember the drive felt very short.

The concert that night was Herman's Hermits and we got to stand in the group right in front of the stage. They sang "I'm in to something good" and "I'm 'enry the eighth I am," as well as a number of songs from other bands. They were very good, though I remember being a little shocked at seeing a 60-something man in yellow leather pants. We sang and danced and it took me a while to notice Brock had put his arm around me, but when I finally did, I liked it.

After the concert we rode on most of the rollercoasters and walked around the park a little. Our last stop was down at the beach. We were pretty tired by then and more than a little giddy, at least I was. It was very romantic on the beach. We kicked off our shoes and played in the water, holding hands and singing all the silly songs we had just heard. When we got tired of running around, we sat and snuggled in the sand listening to the surf and the crowds behind us.

Eventually we decided it was time to head home. I had reached a level of tiredness that can only be called "sleep-drunk," which carries all the symptoms of alcohol comsumption, without the hangover the next day. Brock thought it was the funniest thing he'd ever seen and got a kick out of trying to steer me toward the car. It was a very good thing he drove. I relaxed a little in the car and in the drive home we talked about intelectual things. we discussed literature, poetry, and music. It was amazing how much we had in common. I was really very impressed at how well rounded he was. He knew a lot about everything. I liked him very much. You know, I have no idea what he was thinking most of that night. I think (I hope) it was good.

When he dropped me off I decided I didn't want to go out with him again. I didn't like that we had held hands on the first date. There were even moments when we had almost kissed! I was angry at myself for liking someone so much so quickly. Isn't it funny how we can be so sure that we know what we want, or don't want, and the whole time we have no idea?

Meanwhile, Brock was planning his next move...

July 7, 2004

On July 7, Brock's birthday, he called me to ask me on a date. I was excited to go, but I think it should be understood that he pulled a fast one on me. This was the guy who had promised to be my golf instructor, and he was asking me to go to a concert with him. I think he gave me three options, the best of which was the concert, but none of them had anything to do with golf. I remember I found this very flattering.

(For those of you who still haven't caught on, this meant he was reserving the right to come after a second date and offer me a golf lesson. He actually told me later that golf lessons in themselves meant at least two dates: one for teaching and one for playing, so he was even sneakier than I knew.)

I agreed to go to the concert (I had never been to the Boardwalk, in spite of having lived within 20 miles of it for the last seven years, and I was excited to get to know Brock better. I hadn't intended to go out with anyone that summer, but he was difficult, no, impossible to resist. I actually promised myself I wouldn't go out with anyone, but when he asked me out it never occurred to me to say no.

I think at this point, for him, I was just one of many girls he was taking out that week. Am I right, Brock? I'm not sure when I became the most interesting girl, but it can't have been until after we'd been out a few times. Still, it was very nice that he was interested enough to try to secure more than one date.

Anyway, I managed to wish him a happy birthday before we hung up (he had told me when it was when we met) and he said, "Thanks, I've been hoping all day no one would say anything, but I'm glad you did." I was surprised he didn't want anyone to notice, but he said he just didn't think his birthday was a big deal. Well, for the record, I think it is!

Let's go way back...July 4, 2004

One day in June Brock Lyle got an email from a girl he had never met. She was from Stanford 1st ward and she was trying to get a group together to go see "Much Ado About Nothing" at Shakespeare in the Park. Brock didn't know this Karren Thomas, but he did like "Much Ado" so he decided to show up anyway. At the play he met a few new people that he really liked: Karren Thomas and Dave Marble.

On July 3rd Brock went out swing dancing with his new friend, Dave. They stayed out so late Brock slept in and missed his ward, Stanford 2nd, so he decided that just this once he would attend the Stanford 1st ward. I had planned on visiting Karren's ward at some point during the summer, and now seemed as good a time as any. I sat next to Karren and Brock sat in front of her...you can see where this is going.

Karren, feeling the pull of her matchmaking insticts, tapped Brock on the shoulder. "Brock, I'd like you to meet my sister, Laura." He turned around, ready to smile and be polite, and did an actual, visually pleasing, double-take. Brock thought, "I like she way she smiles with her eyes." I thought, "Wow, his eyes are blue!" We shook hands and the meeting started. We each spent the entire meeting positioning ourselves so we could see the other.

The meeting ended and it seems like we basically ran to each other and started talking, anxious to improve the acquaintance as soon as possible. (I think I had a friend with me that day, so I must have ditched her-sorry Tasha!) We talked all the way out of the chapel, down the hall, and all the way through Sunday School. We had to pause for a while when the teacher asked Brock to read a scripture. He read beautifully, his voice clear and musical. I remember being very impressed. We were both amazed when we laughed at all the same things. Once he began quoting a movie and I finished it for him. He turned to look me, impressed and laughing.

At the end of the meeting he asked if I knew how to play golf. (I don't remember how it came up, but I think they were actually talking about golf in the lesson. Odd.) I told him I didn't know how, but, yes, I would like to learn. He promptly offered to be my golf instructor and I laughingly agreed. Naturally we had to exchange numbers, else how would I ever get a lesson? I remember looking down at the slip of paper he had given me and admiring his name and handwriting.
"Brock Lyle..."

I danced my way to Relief Society and showed Karren what her efforts had produced. She was pleased. She told me she had been very impressed with him that night at the play and thought we might have a lot in common. I really, really wanted him to call me...

Carmel in the Spring

This last Spring Brock's parents came into town and took us and Nana to Monterey and Carmel for a weekend. It had been raining and raining, so we were all (especially Nana) nervous about being wet the whole time. Oddly enough we got the one weekend it didn't rain! We couldn't believe our luck.

Mom and Dad Lyle flew in late on Friday and stayed with us. Our hide-a-bed is quite comfortable (we often stay on it ourselves), so we were happy to be able to share. Saturday morning we packed up, picked up the rental car, and headed to Nana's for breakfast. She had muffins and fruit-yummy! Soon we were on our way. The sun was out all day and the ocean was perfect.

On that first day we found a house in Carmel that Nana once lived in as a teenager, walked on the beach for an hour, peeked in a few shops, and then Nana found us a sweet little deli for lunch. We would never have found it without her-it was in the back of a tiny grocery store, but it was very good! Then she found a cute park for us to eat in. It's nice to bring someone who knows their way around.

After that we drove the "seventeen mile drive" (which was lovely, except where they blocked off the view to give the seals some privacy ???) and checked out a few golf courses. Nana kept exclaiming over how clear the weather was and she was right. We had a perfect day. Eventually, around five or six, we headed inland to find our hotel, the Carmel Valley Ranch. It was up in the hills and had a marvelous view.

The Carmel Valley Ranch is perfect. It's actually a collection of pretty cottages scattered around the hill and you get to your room by way of a golf-cart. Any time you want to head back to your car or the lobby, you just call ahead and they pick you up! Crazy fun! We all took an hour or so and settled in and then off to dinner!

Mom and Dad Lyle took us all to a fish restaurant in Monterey that looked old and cheap, but tasted like nothing you've ever experienced. They had such good fish! Fresh and tasty. We got there just in time too, and beat the rush. It was a tiny place, and it smelled like fish, but we had a great time! I have to take my parents there, they'll love it!

Then it was back to the hotel and we all relaxed and went to bed at our own paces. The next day we had a yummy breakfast of eggs benedict and then headed home via the scenic rout. We visited an old mission in Carmel (Mom Lyle, Brock and I wandered around it for a while) and then drove through the pretty little (some not so little) Carmel beach homes. Mom Lyle decided she would write "the next great American novel" and they would be able to retire in one of those houses. We fully endorse that idea, Mom Lyle! And we promise to visit you in your dream house!

The rest of the drive was the beautiful Monterey and Carmel coast, with one stop to play on a beach. The storms were returning, after only one perfect day, but it only added to the charm of the ocean. We didn't get rain until we got back to Palo Alto, so the overcast sky was nothing to worry about. We got back into town in time to be hungry. We had burgers at Clark Burger (you can't get a better one anywhere!) and then it was time to return the car and go home.

What a wonderful weekend!

The Test is Over...Now what?

When Brock finished the bar for the second time we took a weekend trip to Park City to relax with Mom and Dad Lyle and do a little Skiing. It was fun to see the other half of our family and the new condo. The first day, Friday, we got to see Grandma Nadine and go through the Salt Lake Temple. I had never been through and it was wonderful! After the session we had dinner with an old friend of the family and his wife (I cannot for the life of me remember their names!) at their country club. It was a lovely meal and everyone was so nice and sweet.

The next day we went skiing at Deer Valley. Mom and Dad Lyle took us and Greg and Courtney came too. Courtney and I stuck to the Bunny Slope, and the husbands stayed with us for an hour or so. Mom and Dad got passes for the steeper slopes and they switched off with the boys every now and then. Courtney and I did very well (meaning no one had any dramatic falls). We were even doing parallel turns in the end. Lunch was fantastic of course (Chili-fries, burgers, salad and fresh fruit). By the time we got home we were all exhausted and content. The Olympics were on and we ate Minestrone Soup while we cheered the USA on.

The last day was Sunday. We went to church with the family and then slipped out early to have brunch with Jules Hendrix. She looked great and it was fun to catch up. We just had time, after that, to get a sandwich before we left for the airport. It was a perfect weekend and helped Brock really rest after his ordeal. We both needed it and we both had a wonderful time.

How it Really Went

For his birthday Brock wanted to go to lunch at a Malaysian restaurant in Redwood City, so I met him at work and stole him away (not too difficult, since most of the firm was out of town). I brought him his watch at lunch so he could enjoy wearing it at work. He loved it and tried to wind it up, but it didn't work and now we have to send it back and get a new one. Oh well. Still, lunch was fantastic (Brock got green curry chicken and I had Pahd Thi-I have no idea how to spell that, but I think I'm close).

As soon as I left him at work, I raced home to pack us up for the Mansion. I had to check us in at 3:00 and I thought I'd do all the work of unpacking and settling in, so Brock would have a complete surprise. I managed to pack and get to the mansion on time, but when I got there I found a bit of a mix up. They gave us a room with broken plumbing and a view of the parking lot. I called Dad for advice and then went back to ask the manager for a new room. I got it. It still wasn't in the mansion, but it had a much better view and it was clean and comfortable. Still just a little disappointed, I unpacked and headed home.

I got home just in time to get ready for dinner. Just then a new problem surfaced. As I was getting ready, I figured out I was getting a little sick and I knew I would need a prescription. I called in to my doctor's office and told them what was going on. They had told me previously that they could diagnose and prescribe meds over the phone, so I thought I wouldn't have to come in. I was wrong. I had a bit of fever, so I had to see a doctor. I asked what they had open the next day, but they said I had to come in that night. Because of the nature of the illness, I had no choice. Great timing.

Brock walked in the door to find me furious, but he was such a good sport. We had time to go to dinner and then run to the doctors before we headed to the hotel. I was very glad I had already checked us in, since I had no idea how long the doctor visit would take.

The Melting Pot was perfect. It was better than I had hoped it would be, with rose petals and cider, balloons and chocolates. We had cheese and chocolate-peanut butter fondu, taking our time and enjoying the romantic atmosphere. I decided to tell Brock about the hotel, since he was driving, and he was really excited to see it. When I told him about the room mix-up earlier in the day, he decided he wanted to talk to them again.

After a quick stop at the doctor's office we headed out and in no time Brock and I had talked our way into one of the Mansion's most beautiful suites. It was called the "eucalyptus Suite" and came fully equipped with a sitting room, huge bathroom, bedroom, four-post bed, walk-in closet, and private balcony. So pretty and luxurious! We took baths, did crosswords, and slept very comfortably.

The next day we had a wonderful breakfast and then raced to Los Gatos to get Brock's hair cut. I then borrowed Alli's swim-suit and we went back to the mansion to spend the rest of the morning by the pool. We swam and sunned until check-out time. So, Brock seemed to enjoy his birthday, and that was the point, though it didn't work out just exactly the way I'd planned.

Brock had a Birthday

This was the first time we were together for Brock's birthday (he called me to ask me out for the first time on his birthday two years ago, and I was in Provo defending my masters thesis last year). I wanted it to be specially nice, so I started planning weeks in advance.

I bought his birthday present (a beautiful Marquis dress watch) a month or two before his birthday and hid it away under the bed in a boring looking box. I keep all kinds of things under my side of the bed and I knew he wouldn't think anything of a new box under there. He didn't know what half of it all was anyway. Two weeks before the big day I called around and made reservations. I got us a private booth (complete with celebratory "cider" package) at the Melting Pot in San Jose. Brock loves Fondu and we hadn't had it in a while.

Then I called Dad and, after some discussion, he helped me find a fabulous deal at the Dolce Hayes Mansion. It's a historical, giant of a house that is usually used as a conference center and restaurant, but you can stay there as well. They were having a special "bed-and-breakfast" deal for a very good price and I jumped at it. The hotel agreed to give us a room in the mansion if possible, but if they were too full, we'd get a room with a view of the mansion. I planned for us to stay one night and just have a little get-away.

Brock knew nothing about any of this, of course. He was very good and didn't even ask (he loves to be surprised), though I was having a hard time NOT telling him all about it.

How did the amazing day go? Stay tuned...

The Fourth Part 2

We found the prettiest beach just outside Mendocino. It was all rocks and tiny waves. We walked along it for a few minutes and then headed into the downtown to find a place to eat. There weren't a lot to choose from anyway, this was such a small town, but most places were closed for the Fourth. We had probably driven down every street in town before we found a tiny garden restaurant called "Lu's kitchen."

Lu herself had a tiny one-room hut in the garden and tables all around. You walked up to the window and ordered your food (I had a Greek Quesadilla and Brock had a Tostaco with vegetarian sausage sauce). She whipped it all up for you and then you sat in the garden, listening to the brass band playing patriotic anthems. We called Brock's Dad, but just as he figured out who he was talking to, an Air-raid siren went off. I was furious, but Brock laughed until he almost choked on his dinner.

After dinner we realized we hadn't made a bathroom stop in over four hours and it was about time we found one. A few blocks away we stepped inside an ice cream parlor and after using their restroom, we ordered an ice cream to share. Brock had to try their Blackberry Chip (dark chocolate chips in fresh Blackberry ice cream). I had been pretty set on Mint Chip, but after tasting the Blackberry, I gave in. It was absolutely blissful! We took it on a cone and began our drive home.

This time we took Highway 1 most of the way down, only turning at 116 to get back to 101 near Santa Rosa. Once again the drive was stunning. There were cliffs that terrified me and cows that wandered into the street, blissfully unaware that breaking through their fence might be dangerous. We saw vineyards everywhere, so that sometimes it looked like Tuscany. Very lovely!

We got to Sausalito just as after dark. We parked and settled in just in time to see the fireworks go off over pier 39. The show was beautiful. I love fireworks and I think we got to see one of the best displays in the bay area. We were across the bay from it, and the there was a twenty second lag between the lights and the booming. From there we raced home and curled up on our hide-a-bed to watch "Independence Day" as we fell asleep.

Four hours each way, with a stop for dinner and fireworks at the end. The trip took nine and a half hours start to finish. It was an absolutely perfect day.

The Third Fourth

Yesterday was our second Fourth of July together (actually our third, if you count the fact that we met on the Fourth of July two years ago). We had a lot of trouble deciding what to do with the holiday and we were halfway through the day before we made up our minds. We did get to watch the Shuttle Discovery take off, which was amazing, but then we just didn't know what to do. I still had a nasty cough from my cold, so I wasn't feeling up to a hike or any serious athletic activity. Brock was restless and we were both bored by all our own suggestions. There were chili cook-offs, festivals, and picnics, but we just kept shrugging and saying, "I don't know, do you want to go?"

Finally, around twelve thirty, I told him what I really wanted was a drive. I wanted to see scenery, but I couldn't hike, so could we go for a drive, maybe along the coast? He looked interested and we pulled up a map online. Where should we go? I jokingly pointed North and said "let's just drive to Oregon and back tonight!" Brock liked the idea, but we found the drive to Oregon would have taken 14 or 15 hours to complete. Too much for one night. Still, Brock said, North sounds pretty good.

He began testing paths to different destinations, to see how far away they were. We finally settled on Mendocino, CA. It was four hours away and Brock had been there as a boy. He said it was a small artist community. It sounded charming and plenty far away enough to count as an escape. It was startling to discover we could actually do this without anyone else's permission. We looked at each other and laughed, then we scrambled around quickly to pack the car with food, warm clothes, and music. By 1:00 we were on our way and still laughing at how crazy we were.

We drove up 101 and then took 128 over to Highway 1 and on up to Mendocino. Neither of us had ever made this trip before and the scenery was really lovely. We rolled the windows down and played music on a CD player (plugged into the cigarette lighter, because the CD player in the car is broken). We reveled in the freedom of having nowhere in particular to be.

First time apart

Years ago I went to girls camp as a 2nd year councilor. My experience was not very...pleasant. When we got home I told Mom that I wasn't going back until I was married. I figured a married woman got a lot more respect. Well, I think Mom remembered my saying that. I got married and, sure enough, the very next summer I got a call from her. To be honest, I was delighted. I was no longer in her stake, but they were very short of councilors and if they didn't mind, I didn't mind.

I was really looking forward to camp. I was given the 4th years and that meant a 13 mile hike. Brock and I put ourselves through at least one hike a week until I left for camp. I was ready. I had everything I needed for the hike (an overnight with backpacks), being a councilor (bringing extra everything) and for camp itself. I loaded Brock's car with gear and gas and left at 6:30 AM on a Monday morning. (Camp lasted a week: Monday thru Saturday)

Camp was both a truly wonderful experience that I wouldn't trade for anything and completely exhausting. My girls were all very sweet, the hike was fabulous, everyone was helpful, and the programs and classes were inspired. On the other hand, I got almost no sleep, my calves are rock hard now (I walked across camp five or six hundred times a day looking for stray girls), and my girls seemed to tumble into trouble wherever they went.

If I wasn't talking the JS girls out of giving them extra capers, I was explaining why they were late to a class, or shielding them from the wrath of the kitchen staff. They loved each other, me, camp, and were very obedient, but they just couldn't seem to stay where they were supposed to...out of trouble. I loved them, but they made me tired.

The last night of camp was my breaking point. I had hoped I could restrain my homesickness until I got home the next day, but then I got sick and it all came out in torrents. Mom was there with me and, because I was sick, suggested Brock hitch a ride up to camp the next morning and drive me home. We used the "emergencies only" phone line and got ahold of him. He said he'd be there, and instead of calming down, I broke down. Hearing his voice after a week of never seeing or hearing him was too much. I was hysterical and I hope I never cry like that again. Mom got me to my tent without anyone seeing us and I was calm again when the girls came in to bed. I can never be grateful enough to her for that. Well, Brock came the next morning and in no time we were down the mountain and home. I got the first real shower I'd had in a week and a lovely long nap. I love camp, but I don't think I'll do it again for a while.

I got an email from one of my good friends in my own ward soon after I got back. She said our stake was going to camp the next week, why wasn't I going? I laughed and laughed. Maybe next year, when I've got a grip on myself and won't have a nervous breakdown from being away from my husband for a few days. After all, it was our first time apart in over a year.

Calling all Kids

When we moved into Palo Alto Second ward (just weeks after we were married) they gave us a few months grace before they handed us our callings. Luckily enough, we ended up with two joint callings. "The Lyles" were in charge of Leading the music in Sacrament Meeting and in Primary. We both love music and absolutely love being together, so we were thrilled. After the first few weeks the Nursery staff came to us and basically begged us to come in for the last fifteen or twenty minutes of the day and teach music to the nursery kids. No problem, we said, and we have had a dull Sunday since.

We trade off duties. If Brock leads for Sacrament, then I do opening exercises in Primary (and vice versa). I teach the little ones in Jr. Primary and Brock gets the Sr. kids, which suits us both. In Primary we have developed a board game for the kids that they play every week Sr. verses Jr. Primary. The theme this year in Primary is Rainbow, so we used that theme in our game and the end of the board is a pot of gold. They get to go a space for every song they sing well and go back a space if they get rowdy. They've gone back plenty of times, but they're still almost done and then we'll start it over. It works wonderfully.

I was trained as a grade-school teacher (meaning 1st through 3rd grades) and I'm not very comfortable with the older kids. Brock has a more thorough grasp of music theory, which the older kids enjoy learning, and his attitude is more professional, which impresses them. I like teaching with games and energy, but the older kids need facts and energy. Brock loves it.

Some of the kids in Primary make us laugh and laugh. The sunbeams are darling and do their best, blushing when you give them any attention. A few of the older kids have a little too much energy and absolutely cannot sit still, but they're always super bright and know all the words, so you can't complain. What really makes me laugh about the little ones is the way they practically shriek the words when I ask them to be louder. Yikes!

The big kids can get pretty sarcastic and are sharp enough to catch every mistake you make. Still, they have grown less sarcastic as they have gotten to know us and they don't mind our mistakes as long as we are willing to admit it when they happen. They love to lead the music and practice with us for every song, so sometimes Brock will call one of them up to lead the next one. They sing so well, it's hard to believe they are all under twelve years old. What a talented ward!

In nursery we've tried a lot of things. Some work and some don't, but most of the time everything goes pretty well. The little ones love it when Brock brings his guitar (the big favorite it 10 bears on the bed). I introduced the Hokey-pokey, which they enjoy. We also try to teach them a few basic primary songs, so when they graduate they'll be ready to sing with us. They've learned the Sunbeam song, I am a Child of God, Hello Hello, and Do as I'm doing.

These guys are so cute! One little boy, who is too young to either sit still or speak in sentences, loves to watch us sing and interjects a word now and then. When we announce the next song is "Itsy Bitsy Spider" he runs to the mush-pot of the circle and delightedly repeats "'pider!" They all do the motions to every song (or at least smile happily at us as we do them) and no one likes to be left out of ring-around-a-rosy. You should see the circle! Three leaders and about ten kids, all trying to hold one to each other and not fall down too soon. Of course, they all do, but you have to give them credit for trying to stay up.

We really, really love our Callings!

The Bar...Again

Brock was terribly nervous as the time for the Bar (round 2) approached. He found it difficult to concentrate because he was so nervous. He went to class, studied constantly, and had trouble sleeping. I wanted to help, but I just couldn't think of anything that I could do.

Probably the hardest part was how little time we could spend together. If he wasn't studying, he was thinking about how he should be studying. He even felt guilty about sleeping or eating. This went on for a while, but eventually we figured out I could help after all. Brock spent his study hours writing essays and reviewing flash cards. I was curious about his work, so I enjoyed quizing him with the cards and he found our resulting discussions helpful.

Looking back, we realized that just at the time we began studying together and Brock became more optimistic, we had started reading our scriptures together and praying every night. We could never have made it through that study period if we hadn't brought the spirit back into our home. Inspiration came just when we needed it.

Everywhere we went, we quized with the cards. We must have discussed every card at least three or four times, but that was fine becasue my memory isn't the best and his is like a sponge. The information was just as new to me on the fourth try as it was on the first, so I wasn't in bored at all, and he got to review everything until it stuck. And it did.

He was much calmer this time around. I think he just felt more prepared. He was writing essays until the minute the test began. Also, in his favor, the test was closer to home, so he didn't have to book a hotel and I could be with him through the whole thing. On the last day of the test, he walked in the house and smiled. He said, "I think it's done. I think I'm through."

We he ever right!

The Three Hour Tour

Today Brock and I went hiking. I am going to young women's camp this year, and I'll be going on an overnight hike with the fourth years, so we have done our best lately to go on as many hikes as possible. Since camp is in a week, we have been increasing the difficulty of our trails. This time we took the ferry from Tiburon to Angel Island and hiked all the way around.

Just to make things a little more difficult for Brock, he ran a 5k (Olivia's Miles) this morning right before we headed for Tiburon. Poor kid! Still, he recovered and we set off. We packed sandwiches, water, and beef jerky, and made it in time for the noon ferry out to the island. The weather was a little overcast, but that was perfect. It would have been a little too bright and hot with the sun out.

We landed in time to hear about a mock Civil War cannon battle with a ship going on in a nearby bay. We raced to get there, but I think we missed the battle part. However, we did see one of the old cannons loaded and fired (Brock got a great picture!) From there we found the nearest trail and off we went. We hiked for a total of three hours and actually made it all the way around the island! We climbed almost all the way to the top of the mountain and switched trails a few times (including the fire road). In the end we found the switch-backs that took us back to the dock where our ferry was waiting.

We got a little sunburned and our feet were aching, but we were so proud of ourselves for making it all the way around the island.

Valentines Day

For Valentines Day this year we scheduled a fabulous dinner. We knew it was going to fall in the week before Brock took the bar, so we couldn’t play all day. Brock felt bad about that, but with our busy schedules, even if he hadn’t been taking the bar, I don’t think we could have taken a whole day anyway. Besides the dinner was so amazing, that it was plenty for us to celebrate with.

For gifts, I gave Brock a cool little gadget that played nature sounds. It had a dozen different sounds (ocean, rain, rainforest, crickets, and even a heartbeat). Brock enjoyed it while he was studying and when we went to bed it was very soothing. He got me a stunning silver pendant set with an oval cut peridot (my birthstone). He gave it to me at dinner and I wore it all night. I also got flowers! Beautiful roses! Goodness, he spoils me!

We planned ahead and got a reservation at Spago in Palo Alto. It was packed and there were a lot of couples waiting with fingers crossed, hoping that someone would cancel their reservation. We had a nice table and the food was marvelous! Brock had a lobster bisque and steak. I had a salad and crab ravioli. For dessert I got a banana cream tart and Brock had a rich chocolate cake with ice cream. How decadent!

What a great memory for our first Valentines Day together. We have really gone all out in our first year together and we’ll have to be a little less extravagant toward each other from now on, but that’s okay. Honestly, we probably would have had just as perfect an evening if we had stayed home for dinner and just made cards for each other, but I don’t regret our lovely evening. Now and then it’s fun to be spoiled!

A Pair of New Shoes

Brighton is a brand name belonging to a company called Leegin Leather. It is Privately owned by a man and his wife (Jerry and Terri Kohl). They own everything. Anyway, we found out that they were going to be in the Bay Area to open a new store and we hoped that he might stop in our store and say hi. I think Rowan asked him to come, but in any case, he DID stop by. He and his wife came on Friday afternoon and we had a full store.

At one point, while I was showing a customer some shoes, Jerry came up behind me and patted my shoulder. He said, “Hi there, young lady!” I said “Hello, Jerry!” and smiled. I have to admit that I was terribly nervous. Who wouldn’t be? Everything here was his! He listened to me selling some shoes and then asked me, “So, which is your favorite pair?”

We had each chosen a favorite pair that we would take to Hawaii. Mine was a glittery, white sandal that I called my “summer goddess” shoe. I showed it to him and explained it’s significance. He asked me if I had a pair. I replied that I did not. He demanded to know why. I told him that my husband had not yet passed the bar and until then I couldn’t get shoes.

Well, he pulled out his credit card and handed it to Rowan. He told her that I was now the owner of a pair of shoes. She looked at me in surprise and I, helpless, stared back. She went and wrote down the card number, then brought it back. She said we’d ring it up later. He thought about it and then announced that everyone working there today could have a pair of shoes!

When they were gone, everyone turned to me and asked, “What did you DO?” I told them what had happened, but, of course, we all knew it wasn’t anything I had done. Jerry was just so nice and generous. We all got to choose our favorite pair of Brighton shoes (which by the way, are super expensive and stunning!)

I actually didn’t get my “Hawaii” pair. I had chosen that as the shoe I would take to Hawaii. Well, I’m not going to Hawaii in the near future, so what good would that do me? I chose a very beautiful pair of coral colored heeled sandals, called “Patti.” They have a strap of coral and strap of cream and a silver buckle with tiny crystals in it. I love the shoe and I will always be able to remember that this pair of shoes was given to me personally, by Jerry Kohl, the owner of Brighton Collectibles.

Swearing in the Lawyer

Today at 10:30 am Brock was sworn in as a lawyer. Hooray! I got to go, so you get a full account of it.

I met him at his office at 9:15 and he was ready to go (he looked great in his suit and red power-tie!) One of the partners at the firm told us Brock would have to write a few checks (which the firm would reimburse), but neither of us had our checkbooks. This meant we had to back-track to the house and traffic was questionable. Oh well, we thought. We had to have the checkbook.

We made it to the conference center in Oakland just in time for the ceremony to begin. Brock managed to get the forms signed before he took his seat, but that was about it. There weren't a lot of people being sworn in-verification that they don't pass very many test-takers, I guess. There were many speakers (I lost count at 6), but they kept their remarks mercifully short. Brock couldn't believe how quick the whole ceremony was. I ran around the room (literally) taking pictures from every angle. Brock smiled at me, clapped at every interval, and repeated all the oaths. I was so proud I nearly burst.

When the ceremony was over, Brock and I went to finish his paperwork and found out he had to pay for the swearing-in via mail, so we didn't need the checkbook after all. Argh! Still, we got all the paperwork and collected handouts and directories. Then we had time for lunch, so we went to the conference center grill, which was quite nice. All in all it was wonderful and I am so proud of him.

First Christmas

We were due at Mom and Dad’s by eight Christmas morning, so after Christmas Eve dinner at my parents, Brock and I decided to have our present opening a little early. We got home, turned on all the twinkle lights, changed into our pajamas, and filled each other’s stockings.

This is when I walked out and found my new slippers on the stockings—such a surprise! We enjoyed our stockings (plenty of candy and useful little goodies) “’and then the presents?’ ‘and then the presents, after the Christmas box…’”

I had made Brock a quilt for Christmas. It was a golf fabrics patchwork quilt on both sides. Brock and I love to golf, so I thought it would be fitting for him, plus I wanted it to be a manly quilt. He loved it! I also got him his (and my) favorite cologne, Aqua de Gio. He had a bottle, but it was almost empty and he originally stole it from his brother Matt. I thought he should have one of his own.

Brock got me a blanket too. It’s fuzzy on one side and quilted on the other—it’s my favorite! The big gift, though, was a really beautiful, plenty big, jewelry box. I had mentioned that I wanted a big one and that I knew Edward’s Luggage had them. Brock, always quick to pick up a hint, immediately ran over and picked up the perfect one.

The rest of the numerous presents under the tree were “from Santa” for us. Mostly they were movies that we both wanted. No real surprises, but plenty of fun to unwrap them.

The next morning we had presents at Mom and Dad’s, complete with Mom in a Santa hat and everyone in their pajamas. We were completely spoiled and it was a cozy morning. After presents Brock and I had to run and pick up Nana for Christmas Brunch. We found a little pancake house and had a nice breakfast with her. All in all, it was a perfect first Christmas.

Nana for Christmas

Due to many factors, including work schedules and budget crunches, Brock and I spent all our holidays in California this last year. We’d have liked to split the holidays between our two families, but we soon realized that would have to wait until next time. Still, we didn’t mind. My family was here and Brock’s Grandma (Nana) lived just around the corner. We decided to see if we could bring the two families together.

Nana ended up in Reno for Thanksgiving and we spent it with my family (delightedly eating ourselves sick on Mom and Dad’s amazing cooking!) But for Christmas we got everyone there!

The Thomas family tradition for Christmas is for Dad (with helpers, of course) to cook an absolutely decadent meal for Christmas Eve dinner and then sit in front of the fire while Dad reads “A Child’s Christmas in Wales.” It's been this way for years and I've always loved it. Now I got to bring my husband!

This year Nana was invited too and everyone was excited to have a grandma for Christmas again. Brock and I brought her some white wine (which she is used to drinking with her meals) and Mom and I carefully chose the most comfortable chair for her to use during story time.

Dinner was amazing, as always. Dad was sick, so he had the kids cook dinner, with his supervision. We had Mushroom and Leek Soup, Dad’s Prime Rib, and Trifle. Nana, who is very picky about what she likes to eat, loved every bite. She said she felt bad about having wine when no one else drank, but we all drank Martinelli’s and she should have seen Brock and Dad trying to figure out how best to serve chardonnay. They had a blast!

After dinner and English crackers, we al settled around the fire and Dad read his story. Brock loved it and had brought his own story to add to the traditions that night. He read and acted out “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Everyone laughed and laughed, he was so clever! Nana was very proud of him, as was I.

I think everyone had a good time that first Christmas combining two families. Nana talked about it for weeks and my family decided to adopt her as their grandma too. They just loved her. It was wonderful to be able to spend Christmas with everyone at once!

Homemade Stockings

We had our first Christmas as a new family last year. It was so fun to have our own little house to decorate and our own new traditions to start. Our house is very small, so it didn’t take long to decorate. We got a fake tree (though, very life-like) and hung a wreath on the door. And I made stockings.

In my parents’ house we used wooden shoes for stockings and in Brock’s family they had stopped doing them long before I came around. I didn’t have my wooden shoes yet and we didn’t own any stockings to hang up-what were we to do? (Please disregard the fact that we didn’t have a fire-place either. That’s what window-panes are for. Anyway, everyone knows Santa doesn’t need a chimney to find your stockings!) So, the hunt began-the search for the stockings that would grace our first Christmas.

First, I went shopping. I kind of had an idea that our first Christmas stockings should be special and memorable—something we could keep and enjoy forever. Unfortunately, all the really beautiful stockings I found were way outside our price-range. Discouraged, but not defeated, I went to my mother. She suggested I make some, and though I don’t know if she was totally serious at the time, I decided she was right. After all, what could be more memorable than homemade stockings?

Mom and I found some green fabric at the Happy Dragon and a few pretty trimmings (lace for me, and plaid for Brock), and then I spent the morning at my parents’ house cutting, sewing, and trimming a pair of very odd-looking stockings.

They turned out narrower than I had planned and the toes pointed too much, but they looked Christmasy enough and I thought it was fun making them. I wasn’t sure what Brock would think of them, but I knew he’d get a kick out of the fact that I’d tried. I figured if he really hated them, we could go out and buy a few reasonably nice stockings and I wouldn’t care.

He thought they were cute (and I was right, he laughed and laughed over them) and we hung them up right away. They were a little heavy for the wall, even empty, but I thought we’d lean them up against the wall when they were full, so that was all right.

On Christmas Eve, when we did stockings, I came in to find that he had bought me a pair of sheep-skin slippers and he had put them on our stockings for a surprise! With all the stuff we had put in them, they stood up like legs and I loved it!

So, the stockings were a hit and we had a lovely Christmas!

Anniversary Weekend, Day 3

Our last day in San Francisco was actually a little more laid-back then we had originally planned. (My fault, of course. Brock has the energy of a two-year-old and could sight-see for days). The morning was pretty busy, though, because we had to be checked out of our hotel and at the Exploratorium by 10:15 am. We managed to eat breakfast (at the hotel cafe), pack, and get to the Exploratorium just in time for our reservation at the tactile room.

The tactile room was the coolest thing we did all morning. You take off your shoes, hats, and jewelry, and go climbing through a pitch black tunnel. You can't see a thing, and you make your way through by touch. (Not for claustrophobics or people afraid of the dark!) We went through twice and had a great time. The rest of the morning we wandered through the museum playing with gadgets and playing whatever games were offered (highlights: talking with Daisy (the computer with a mind of its own), Making bubbles the size of me, and the smoke-ring maker).

For lunch we went to Mel's Diner (is that right, Brock?) Anyway, it's the place they filmed American Graffiti. We sat outside and got burgers and fries. From there we drove down Lombard Street (One of Brock's wishes for the weekend) and then down to the old military fort under the Golden Gate Bridge. I can never remember names, so if Brock reminds me I'll fill in the name of the fort later.

The fort was very impressive! We saw a demonstration on how to load and fire an old cannon (Brock got to pretend to fire it). Then we wandered up to the very top level and looked out over the bay and the coast. It was the most beautiful day and you could see everything! They had a display of old tools in one of the dormitories that was very interesting. We saw old-style bullets that shattered bones, shaving kits, and any number of old cooking utensils.

At this point I got very tired and we had a few hours until our dinner reservation. We had orginally planned to walk the Golden Gate Bridge, but I was half-asleep on my feet and Brock fell back on plan-B. We headed to China Beach and spent the next few hours lazing about in the sand and waves. We had recently bought a sunshade/half-tent for trips to the beach and we happened to have it with us, though we hadn't thought we'd need it. I got to curl up inside with a book and listen to the waves. Brock played in the water for a while and then we both took naps. Not as adventurous as we had planned to be, but very nice and relaxing.

We changed in the bathrooms at China Beach (because they had showers and changing rooms) and drove to our Dinner reservation-a dinner cruise around the bay! The problem was we forgot that the cruise boarded at 6:30 and thought we had until 6:45. When Brock realized our mistake we had fifteen minutes to get across the city and get on the boat! Traffic wasn't too bad, but it was frustrating enough to drive Brock bonkers with worry that we'd miss our cruise. I think we were pushing the floor of the car with our feet the whole was there. We planned for Brock to drop me off at the pier and ask them to wait for him while he parked. We didn't get there until 6:40, but we lucked out because the cruise had its own, very reasonably priced, parking lot and the cruise didn't actually leave until 7. Whew!

The Cruise was the crowning event of the weekend. Brock had ordered the (non-alcoholic) celebration package, so we had complimentary champagne flutes (to be filled with martinelli's) and lovely chocolate truffles. The menu was wonderful-a four-course meal including appetizer, salad, entre (Brock got Filet Mignon and I had Roast Chicken), and fabulous desserts. We walked on the deck between courses (the meal was served inside), danced (they had a very good, live band), and chatted with the other couples around us, most of them celebrating Mother's Day. With candle-light and a marvelous view of the city lights, it couldn't have been more romantic.

At dinner Brock also gave me my anniversary present (he had already given me a lovely photo album and all of our pictures taken as a couple during our first year, so I was already pretty spoiled). He had found a beautiful, antique locket (gold with a carved cameo on the front) and had put our pictures in it. I love it! It is so ME!

I had given him his present a month or two early-a simple, gold wedding band for every day (he inherited his real one, but I had always wanted him to have him one from me). I also gave him a book called "1000 places to see before you die." It's just what he likes and he can't put it down!

Just before we drove home, Brock drove us up to Coit Tower and we looked out over the city. While we were there, we saw a young man proposing to his girl and we felt that seeing a marriage proposal kind of set the cap on a perfect anniversary weekend. We had a wonderful First Anniversary and spoiled each other shamelessly! We know we can't do it like this every year, but the first is supposed to be something special...and it was!

Anniversary Weekend, Day 2

The second day of our trip (Saturday) we got up at our own pace. The only place we had to be was our reservation for lunch on the pier, so we had the morning to do whatever we felt like.

We got some rolls and fruit for breakfast at a little coffee shop in Union Square and then window shopped. We peeked in Tiffany's, Armani, Cartier, and Dior. I got to try on furs and gold watches and Brock even tried on a really nice watch. It was all very beautiful, very expensive, and a lot of fun to look at!

We then took the cable car down to the pier and had a marvelous lunch at the Boudin Bakery. Brock had Macaroni and Cheese with crab for a twist, and I had the classic clam chowder in a bread bowl. We took our time over lunch and then watched the seals bark at people until it was time for the Alcatraz tour.

Alcatraz was really very creepy, but fascinating. The scariest thing about it is that it's a bird sanctuary and they poo everywhere! You have to watch your head and don't ever look up. We did it all! We saw the movie telling the history of the island, walked the path up to the prison, took the headset tour, and then wandered around the island on our own. Some of the stories they tell in the headset tour were horrible, some were funny, and some were very touching. I wouldn't have missed it for anything! I even got a beanie in the gift shop, which was good, because it was freezing out there!

When we got off the boat back at the pier, we headed directly to Ghiraidelli Square for ice cream. Brock got a sunday and I got a banana split. Wow, it was so good! This was kind of our early meal, because from there we took the cable car back to the hotel and changed just in time to get to the musical, Peter Pan. We didn't eat again until ten-thirty, so ice cream was great!

Peter Pan was absolutely fantastic! Kathy Rigby was hysterical and perfect in the role of Peter. The music was fun and well done, the cast was very professional, and the whole show was magic. That was probably one of the highlights of the weekend. I don't know what I expected from Peter Pan, probably that it would be geared toward very small children, but I was blown away by the quality of the show. I highly recommend it to anyone!

After the show we headed to the little pub Brock had hoped would be our late dinner, but they had already closed the kitchens and we had to head out and find some 24 hour diner. It was easy enough. There were three in a row about a block from the pub! We just ate at the one nearest to us and it was fine (we were pretty hungry, so it was all great to us!)

After dinner, as a little surprise, Brock took me over to the Sir Francis Hotel (is that right, Brock?) and we went up the elevator. Sounds boring, but it wasn't! That elevator is made windows and above a certain level, you can see all over the city! We went all the way to the top! I'll admit it was a little scary going up and knowing we were going to have to drop back down again, but what a fantastic view! And a great way to end the evening!

Anniversary Weekend, Day 1

This last weekend was our first anniversary (well, Sunday, specifically, but we celebrated the whole weekend). Amazing that it has been a year. The first year of forever, as we like to say.

We decided to spend the weekend in San Francisco and play tourist. We only had the weekend and we didn't want to fly, but we did want to take a "trip." So, on the first day, we drove a half an hour, had dinner at the Cliff House, and stayed at the Warwick Regis Hotel.

The Cliff House seated us just before sunset hit the ocean. We got a nice table in a smaller, more private room, right next to the window overlooking the waves. As the sun set, candles were lit and the lights were dimmed. The atmosphere was marvelous and romantic. We had crab cakes for starters (we had never had them before, but I think we should have them more often!) and then Brock had swordfish and I had halibut. The food was beautifully presented and came in small enough portions that you had enough to fill you, but not enough to gorge yourself. Finally, for dessert, we shared a banana/chocolate cheese cake. What a decadent meal! We took a few pictures and then it was off to the hotel.

The Warwick Regis has been around since 1913 or so and it was done in the style of the times, meaning small-scale opulence. The lobby was tiny and might have been able to hold twenty people, if they squished. The rooms in our suite were smaller than the more modern hotels, but how much room do two people need? Anyway, they were beautiful rooms! The bed was draped and had a kind of half-canopy. The chairs were plushy and brocade. The lamps were old style and the closet was actually a wardrobe! Thankfully, everything was modern (TV, pluming, lighting), and the bed was extremely comfortable.

We took a bath and then settled down to watch a little TV and listen to the crazy drunks outside as we fell asleep. Very nice for the first evening!

Yosemite 2005

One weekend, in the fall of 2005, Brock and I decided to go camping in Yosemite. I had never been there and we thought it was about time for a little vacation. It was very last minute, but that was half the fun, really. We got a reservation for a campsite a week ahead of time and when Friday came around, off we went.

It was eleven o’clock and pitch black when we got there, but, nothing daunted, we built a fire and set up our tent. I’d never put up a tent like this one and Brock hadn’t done it in years, but somehow we figured it out. When all was ready, we sat by the fire (dying at this point) and looked around.

The redwoods were so tall we could just see a patch of starlight peeking through. It was so still, yet we could hear critters rustling through the trees and wind. It felt so big, and yet the next morning I surprised at how very big it all was. That night we almost froze! Brock says he woke up half uncovered because I had stolen most of the blankets. That’s probably true, but so not my fault!

The next day we spent hiking around a little and driving to see all the sights. We also went over the hill to play golf and have lunch at the Wawona Hotel and resort. It was the first time I’d played on a professional-sized course. What a beautiful place Yosemite is! It’s just too big to be real. We took countless pictures (to prove we really went, of course) and they are now snug in a photo album at home.

On our last day there we had arranged to take a mule ride through the park. We expected to be part of a large group—maybe 30 or 35 people, but we found out that we were the only ones signed up for the day. Normally they charged people hundreds of dollars to get a private ride through the park, but we got one accidentally for the regular price (I think it was $50 each) just because no one else wanted to go this late in the year. We had a marvelous time with just the two of us and our guide, though there were some tricky parts when our mules went faster than we wanted to. Brock rode a slow-paced muled named Jeep, and my down-hill-happy mule was called Alice.

That night we headed home relaxed and refreshed. It was such a short weekend and we decided we have to go back again later (and in the summer when it’s a little warmer!) We both kind of needed that weekend and now I can say I’ve seen Yosemite!

Ropers, the Good Sport

I don't think it ever really occurred to me that Brock wouldn't pass the Bar the first time. I just knew he would.

When he didn't I was furious-really mad. I ranted and raved about how the computer was wrong, and the committee who graded it was evil, and so on. He was calmer about it, though he was a little scared. The day after the scores came out I came home to find him staring at the wall: "This is the first time I've failed anything. I failed!" I told him he hadn't failed because he was going to take it again. The first try was just practice. We talked it out and he felt a little better.

Still, he was very nervous to go back to work at Ropers on Monday. They told him when he first came to work that he would probably have two chances to pass the bar, though no promises. I don't think he really believed they would fire him for not passing the first time-but it was a possibility and it scared him.

On Monday night I came home hoping he was okay, that they hadn't been too hard on him at work. I found him smiling. We went out to dinner and he told me about his day.

Every lawyer in the firm had come by his office and told him that they had failed the first time too. Todd, his boss, sat him down and said, "So, what's the plan? How are we going to tackle this?" Todd even asked him, "Is your wife being supportive about this? If she's not, I'll have to have a talk with her!" (Brock assured him I was being very loving and supportive.) One of the higher level bosses even came in and told Brock that Ropers "wanted him there as an attorney."

Basically, he was told and shown in every way that he had the full support of the firm, no matter what. What a great group! Brock said a huge burden had been lifted. He definitely works for the right firm, that's what!

Shopped at Brighton

At Brighton Collectibles, as I suppose at most retail shops, they hire people to come in and “shop” the employees. This means people pretend they’re customers and test our selling technique. They latch on to one salesperson and review her efforts. We never know who they are and we only find out at the end of the month how we did. My first six months at Brighton we never got better than an 80% shop. This isn’t bad, but we really wanted the 100%.

One night in October I got a call from the store. Christina, one of the managers, told me that I was the one who got shopped. She sounded very serious and I panicked. I thought she was calling to warn me that I’d done badly so I’d be prepared if I got chewed out. I’m sure Brock was kind of worried about my depressed reaction to the call.

I asked her if it was bad, and she said, “Pretty bad…you got 100%!!!” Much to Brock’s surprise, I fell to my knees laughing. (I don’t think it’s healthy to shock people like that.) I remember hearing Christina laugh as Brock helped me get up, but I couldn’t walk. Before I could say anything, Christina said, “So, guess what we get?”

I was so surprised. “We get something?!”

She said, of course. Each month a diferent prize was offered. This month the prize was our choice between a sterling silver necklace and bracelet. They were special editions, hand-made in Bali. Each was worth $250.00 and we weren’t even selling them to customers yet. Everyone at the store got to choose one or the other (I ended up choosing the bracelet). Once again, I almost fell over. By this time Brock was completely confused and trying very hard to wait for me to tell him what was going on. He escorted me to a bench and was very patient.

When I got off the phone I told Brock all about it. He was as excited as I was. The rest of the night I kept laughing and clapping my hands. The next day at work my boss gave me flowers and everyone hugged each other. It turned out this was the first time our store had won the 100% prize. It was kind of a mile-stone for us and it was great for morale.

I was so pleased and proud to be the first one to get the 100%. Everyone wins when we get it because it reflects on how well we’ve been trained. Since then, we have had one more 100% and it was one of the managers, Theresa. Well done, us!

The Garden once again

About a week ago I got a marvelous early birthday present! Knowing that I was struggling to understand where to put what plants in our garden, Nana gave me a gardening present. She sent her professional landscape artist to plant a few new flowers and help us organize our garden. What a perfect gift.

So, what happened? I had to work. It just happened that the one afternoon Max could come work in our garden, was the one afternoon that week I had to work. I couldn't get out of it, so I called Brock. He was the sweetest husband in the world and came straight home. He asked what I had planned for the garden and he made sure it all got done.

When I got home that night it was dark, but I could still see such a difference! Max got rid of the most hideous dead bush in the front yard, told Brock which plants were weeds and which should be kept and groomed, and planted the lovely flowers Nana sent us from her garden. The final step was for me to go through to weed and water what was left. Now the garden looks beautiful. I walked into the garden last night coming in from work and stopped for a minute just to enjoy the scent.

Thanks a million times over to Nana and her sweet gift. It's exactly what I wanted and needed!

Dinner with Nana

We don't have a lot of family in the area, so we spend as much time as possible at my parent’s house and with Nana, Brock’s Grandma, Virginia King. About once a week we go to dinner with Nana. Either she cooks or we try one of the many kinds of restaurants in the area.

Nana really spoils us when she cooks. She sets the table beautifully, with candles and beautiful dishware. When we arrive she sits us down with ginger-ale and we chat for while. When the food is ready we have salad (my favorite is the shrimp/bleu cheese salad) and then the main course. Usually we have pot-roast, pork, or chicken. She did make ravioli once and we had fresh crab another time. She’s so sweet to cook for us and she’s very patient with our picky eating habits.

When we go out Nana favorites include Chili’s, Sizzler, and Chevy’s. Now and then we try something new. We’ve been to University Café in on University Ave, Mandarin Gourmet, and countless other multicultural places. Our next adventure in dining will be Milagros, a Mexican Chic restaurant in Redwood City.

Dinner with Nana is something we look forward to every week and it’s such a pleasure spending time with her. I love having a new grandma and I love getting to know her!

New Golf Clubs for Me

When we first met, Brock’s pick-up line was “Can I be your golf instructor?” Really, isn’t he darling? Of course I accepted. He was as good as his word, though I only got one lesson before we got married.

After we settled into our new home, Brock decided it was time to pick up my lessons again, but we were hampered by my lack of clubs. I borrowed Brock’s of course, but it was a little limiting. Anyway, his clubs were a little big for me. Still, I collected a pair of golf gloves (I like to use two), a green and white golf shirt, and a charming golf bracelet.

Dad knew about my increasing interest in golf and he kept his eyes open. One day he called me and told me he had found a full set of ladies golf clubs for $45! They were reasonably nice and they came with a golf bag (a rather unfortunate shade of turquoise, lined with white leather—not attractive, but in very good shape), a towel and a set of golf balls and tees. What a deal! He found them at the family’s favorite thrift shop, “The Happy Dragon.” I told him to buy them quick, before anyone else could steal them away, and within twenty-four hours I was the proud owner of a lovely set of golf clubs!

Since that time I have learned to love and get the most out of my bargain clubs. Dad has also found me a much nicer golf bag, two “woods,” and a little white cart to haul my bag around in. Brock and I golf as often as time and weather allow. Hurrah for Dad and his great Bargain Karma! (This must be somehow related to Parking Karma.)

May 6, 2006

I am going break order here and tell about today.

Today Brock and I walked (or hiked, I should say) a beautiful 5k in the Los Altos Hills. Many of the participants today ran the entire way, but we came to speed-walk it. The run had a theme: “pajamas and robes,” which we took advantage of, but not many did. We didn’t worry about how fast anyone else was going and we enjoyed the absolutely beautiful day at our own pace. I cannot believe how beautiful California is!

The hike was lovely until the last mile. Boy, that about killed me off! Most of it was uphill and I was unprepared. Brock was sweet though. He kept me in front of him and encouraged me through the tough parts. We didn’t finish anywhere near first, but we finished. Overall, a marvelous morning.

We then went to Walmart on the hunt for an umbrella to protect us from the sun, since we wanted to go to the beach. We ended up with a sun-tent, which, we have decided, is our new favorite toy. With it, we went to Pomponio Beach, just South of Half Moon Bay and enjoyed an overcast, but lovely beach afternoon. The ocean was dark and foamy and it was little chilly, but our tent was a great wind-shelter and I was warm anyway. Brock (for the first time ever) was actually colder than I was. Brock brought his work and I read and dozed. So relaxing!

We went directly from there to Togos for salad and sandwiches, and then to Brock’s office. He finished his work and I worked on a little project I now have time to play with. It was really quite cozy sitting there together. Now we are home and after a hot shower we are cuddling and watching bits of movies and historical specials on TV.

On paper the day doesn’t seem to be all that special, but I keep thinking how amazing it is that we could walk in the woods in the morning, spend the afternoon at the beach, and then the evening in the city.

Haircuts for Brock

Brock used to feel that any haircut that cost more than ten or fifteen dollars was a rip-off. Outrageous, in fact. It came, therefore, as a bit of a shock to him that I paid sixty dollars or so for my haircuts. He didn’t ban my extravagance, but he refused, point blank, to waste so much money on his own haircuts.

When we got married my hair stylist gave us each a free haircut. Being that this haircut counted as “less than fifteen dollars” Brock accepted it and went to see Sheri. He came back, to utter my surprise, completely converted. He raved about the straight razor cut. It was perfect! She massaged his shoulders and cut and styled his hair just right. He couldn’t get over the fact that the cut was so good, it didn’t matter how he styled it, it always looked good. And that was how my husband became addicted to expensive haircuts. Still, he said, since his haircuts happened more often than mine he would only go to Sheri every other time.

So, the moral of the story is: a good haircut is worth the money…now and then. Well, but I suspect that once the Bar is behind us and Brock is more settled in his career, with a little more income, the fabulous haircuts will occur a little more often. We’ll see.

Movies at Our House

This is probably the biggest source of tension in our little home. When we first got married we each had a movie collection and there wasn’t a lot of overlap. Maybe that should have warned us that we might have a few differences of opinion, but it didn’t. We were just so excited to share our old favorites with each other. Much to our surprise, this exchange didn’t turn out to be half as fun as we’d expected. We found there were one or two serious differences that we had to deal with.

I like romances, old black-and-whites, and thought-provoking tear-jerkers. Brock only likes select romances, two very specific black-and-whites, and just can’t sit through tear-jerkers. Brock likes action, physical comedy, and slapstick. I like action, but just at the moment I can’t sit through too much violence, I like select physical comedy, and I just hate slapstick.

When new movies come out we tend to be interested in the same ones, but when we go to rent older movies…well, let’s just say no one comes out in a perfectly cheerful mood. I have to admit it was hard on both of us to repeatedly pick out movies and have our adored spouse make disgusted faces (we’ve both done it). Life lessons in patience and understanding are never fun. Still, we’re learning to be more open to each other’s movies. But, really, we just have to learn that we can watch movies by ourselves sometimes.

Inner Thermostat

Every couple has areas where they disagree and have to learn to compromise. Our first "serious" adjustment as a married couple came when we discovered that our internal thermostats were set to very different temperatures. I get cold very easily and can’t bear air conditioning (unless I am way overheated). I am always in sweaters and I own way too many blankets. Brock gets hot very easily. He loves cool weather and lives in shorts.

The first time this issue surfaced was at night. I wore sweats and pulled on an extra blanket. Brock threw off the covers and could barely tolerate a sheet. It happened every night, no matter what the weather, but it ended up working out because he put his extra blankets on top of me.

A much bigger problem was in the car. He would turn on the air conditioning and after a minute I would turn it off. A minute later, he would be panting and he’d turn it back on. I’d get goose-bumps and turn it off. Then if it was cold outside, I’d turn on the heat and a minute later he’d be dying and he’d turn it off. I would be get cold again and turn it back on. It drove us crazy!

We finally worked it out and I usually keep an extra blanket or jacket in the car so I’ll be okay if he gets hot. I think we have also gotten used to each other’s thermostats. Since that adjustment life has been a lot more comfortable. In fact, his inner heater is very nice when I'm cold and want a hug.

The Garden Again

When spring came this year we took stock of what had survived in our little flower bed. Surprisingly we still had half of our plants producing leaves and flowers. Thus encouraged, we went to work weeding and making room for some new flowers.

After a while we started thinking some of the “weeds” we were pulling up didn’t look like weeds. They had bulbs under the ground and their little leaves were quite pretty. We let them grow a little more and now we have a few very pretty flower “bushes” that we didn’t plant. How did they come to be there? They must have been hiding under the horrid green stuff. Wow, I am so glad that stuff is gone!

We did have one scare. When I pulled out a very dead bush in one of the corners I found some gross-looking tiny yellow…well, they looked like eggs of some kind. I did some research and couldn’t find anything about these things, so I asked my dad about it. He thought they were probably some kind of garden parasite. He said we would have to go to the garden shop and get some killer for it before it destroyed our garden. I was devastated. All our plants, finally starting to thrive, and we’d probably have to start over.

I threw most of the “eggs” away and then took samples of them to the garden shop and showed them to one of their advisors. He immediately shrugged and said they were slug and snail eggs. “Nothing to worry about,” he told me. “Just get some snail bait and they’ll go away.” Whew! He was right and thank goodness!

So, anyway, we planted a few seeds this year, and though we probably won’t get a thing from them, you never know. We’ll know next spring. Brock planted a very pretty bush of Jasmine in the front. We’re hoping it will creep up the fence. Nana, Brock’s grandmother, is giving us a few extra plants from her garden too. With any luck we’ll have a flower-laden garden next spring!

Here’s to my (possibly) green thumb!

A Garden...maybe

When we first moved into our cottage the garden was non-existent. There was this horrible green mass of what looked like pale, fat grass and it filled the entire bed. Brock didn’t mind it, but I hated it. One day, when I had a free afternoon, I went out and pulled the whole thing up. When Brock saw what I was doing he laughed and said we needed to put something else in it now. He didn’t like the bare earth in the same way that I didn’t like the ugly green stuff. (He still insists that the green stuff was just fine.)

So, the next day we went to a nearby garden shop and bought a huge selection of flowers. We chose them very carefully, asking questions of the employees and choosing only perennial plants. We then spent the afternoon planting our new flower bed. We had a great time, got very dirty, and the garden looked much cleaner. What we didn’t count on was up-keep.
Neither of us had time to really garden and care for our new plants, though now and then we watered and weeded them. Before winter arrived half of our new plants were very dead and withered. It was a little discouraging and we decided to let it go until spring, and then try again…maybe.

The Piano

Brock plays the piano and I don’t, but love to hear him to play. It relaxes him at the end of the day, he’s a tremendous musician and I could listen to him for hours at a time, and music is a great habit to have around the house. He owned a nice piano, but it was at his parent’s house and we couldn’t get it here. We thought about trying to bring it out, but really, we thought, where would we put it anyway?

Brock really missed having a piano (though he also plays the guitar and sings, there’s something different about a piano). I wanted so much to find him a nice one that could fit in our house, but I didn’t know what made a good piano and Craig’s List was coming up short for once. Brock began saying he would probably give up on the piano and focus on the guitar instead. He was unhappy about it, but we just couldn’t justify spending money we didn’t have on something that we probably couldn’t fit in our house anyway. Then we got a sudden miracle.

Brother Jim Welch in our ward plays the organ professionally. He plays at a few different churches in the area and this turned to our advantage one day. He came to us and said he knew we were musical, but did we have a piano? Of course, we didn’t. He told us that in one of the other churches he played for an elderly woman had just died and her husband wanted to get rid of her piano. He had donated it to his church, but they told Jim that they already had more than ten pianos that had been donated in a similar way and were of no use to them. They asked Jim if he knew of anyone who loved music and didn't already have a piano--someone who needed it. He said we came to mind.

Brock jumped at the offer. We would fit in our tiny place somehow. He got one of our home teachers (Kent Taylor) to help him move the piano and we somehow got it in. We knew it was bad for the piano to be against an outside wall, but that’s the only kind of wall we had. We thought it through and moved things a couple of times and somehow, in the end, we not only got everything in, but we had more free space in the living room than before. That was a little staggering. How could we have added a whole piano to an already packed room and end up with more space?

So, Brock got his piano. Now he plays often and is back to writing music again. I love to hear him playing when I get home from work, or get up in the morning.

Craig's List

The cottage came with no furniture. We each had a few things, but not enough. Brock had the TV, with a stand, a coffee table, two bookshelves, a desk, and a side table for the living room. I had an oak bookshelf, my desk, and the bed from my parents. So, one of the first things we had to do was find reasonably priced furniture, that we liked, that could fit in our little house. We mapped out what we needed and went to work on Craig’s List.

This is the greatest Internet invention yet. It’s basically an online garage sale. We could go online and check out what people wanted to get rid of. Sometimes they wanted a lot of money, but usually it was super cheep, or even free (if would pick it up).

It wasn’t long before we got two black leather couches in perfect condition for $600. The bigger couch even has a hide-a-bed, which is very comfortable. Brock and I often use the couch-bed if we want to watch a movie as we go to sleep. The family who sold them to us was going to Georgia almost immediately and just wanted to get rid of them. I think they actually wanted $700 at first, but Brock is a good haggler.

We also found a really beautiful cherry-wood kitchen table with nice, cushioned chairs for $85, again the price was worked down by my bargain-driving, and oh so charming, husband. Thanks to some of our wonderful friends, who gave us checks for wedding gifts, we were able to buys these things and our house looks great.

Washer and Dryer

One of the great deals that went along with our cottage was the washer and dryer set. The girl who lived here before us had (very sadly) gone through a messy a divorce and wanted to get herself and her baby out of the house and back to Utah as quickly as possible. Basically, she was cutting her losses and going back to her parents. We met her in Utah after she had moved back home. She was really sweet and we felt very sorry for her and her baby.

Still, she helped us out a lot. She had a brand new washer and dryer hooked up in the house that she couldn’t take with her and she offered them to us for $100 a-piece. Brock jumped at the offer, of course. It was that or be condemned to spending hours at a Laundromat once a week. So, now I get to do the laundry in our own home and what a deal!

P.S. Yes, I do the laundry. Brock is not allowed to touch it. Don’t get me wrong, he has never burned anything or turned the whites pink (actually, I did that not too long ago—that blasted pink sock). It’s just that I enjoy doing the laundry and my system is a lot more complicated than his. I like to sort the clothes very thoroughly and he likes maybe three loads. I find laundry (sorting and folding) very relaxing and I look forward every couple of weeks to the scent of our laundry soap, the neatly sorted piles of clothes, and the warmth and sound of the machines running all day. I know, I’m weird. Oh well.

Our First House

Most couples start out in an apartment, with crazy neighbors, or in their parent’s house, or a shack (Mom and Dad!). Brock and I started life together in a pretty cottage that was once a garage and is now the perfect place for a young couple. It belongs to the Allens, a couple on a mission in Germany. They converted their garage some years ago and rented it out. I understand from some people in the ward that it was in reasonable shape, but nothing fabulous. Then their son and his wife wanted to live in it and they overhauled it. Now it really is the perfect little place.

We divided the front room into a living room (with black leather couches and the TV), the music room/study (it holds my desk and the piano), and the dining area (that’s just the table). The kitchen is quite spacious. The hall between the kitchen and bedroom has two closets. One holds the washer, dryer, some storage, and our cleaning supplies. The other is just storage. The bedroom holds the queen-sized bed we got from Mom and Dad, Brock’s desk, the filing cabinet, and our dresser. The bathroom has lots of storage space and a huge shower. That’s all the rooms: there aren’t many, but what we have is plenty big. There’s even a little attic.

We also have a yard, which is something of a luxury. There’s a little fifteen-foot square patch of lawn in the back, which Brock has to mow every week or so. Then we have a few little beds for flowers here and there along the walkway. In front of the house is a rose garden, which is taken care of by the main house’s gardeners. Separating our yard from the rose garden is a little picket-fence. Rose gardens and picket-fences—could we be any more cliché?

The rent is better than anything we could have hoped for in the Palo Alto area and that means we get to save more than we had hoped at first. The Allens have said that we can stay as long as we want, so we plan to stay until we don’t fit—meaning kids. That means we have no idea how long we’ll be here, but we’ll have nine months notice before we have to move. No sign of that yet.