Retro Red Head

Redwoods

2010-09-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

This is my FAVORITE picture from our trip.

On our 2 week trip up to the northwest we drive through the Redwoods. I know now how special it is to have National Parks. What an awesome place. I wish I could live in the Redwood forest. I like the energy there! One of the top 3 places on our trip. The Redwoods are over 300 feet tall. That is taller the the Statue of Liberty. I hope you all can go visit this magical place!

Getting our Groupon on!

2010-05-09T22:25:00.001-07:00

Ann & Ryan B are our friends that are moving soon. Ann is doing a residency in radiation. She is a vet. Now I have a reason to go to Virgina! We are trying to spend as much time with them as we can.
We bought a GC on Groupon.com to Pizzicato Pizza. Everyday they have a great deal on something. So delish! This place is walking distance from my work! You can see Owen wanted to eat the box too! I ordered the Thai Pizza. Yes Thai. And we had the wild mushroom pizza.
I painted my nails the most awsome aqua color. It's my new favorite. So it started a short photo shoot.

Recent Events 2

2010-05-09T22:14:00.000-07:00

Luaren and Jason adopted a boston terrier. Frankie. He is almost 1 year. I get to dog sit at the end of May!

We road our bike to Earthday at Balboa Park. A favorite hangout.

Shopping! Who doesn't love to shop!

Recent Events

2010-05-09T22:00:00.000-07:00

Birthday Brunch at Urban Solace! So Yummy. Fun with Friends!

Kindsay treated me to lunch. So Nice. I love you, Girl!

Ashley Marie Photoagraphy

2010-03-10T09:30:00.000-08:00

YARD PROGRESS

2010-02-14T23:51:00.000-08:00

We have been talking about starting our veggie garden. So we wanted to clean the mess of stuff hidden behind the fence and take the wood fence down. The gate was wanting to fall off so we just took it down today. We love that we can see our yard and that it will be part of a usable space.

We will be terracing the hillside at a later date. We so badly want to start growing tomatoes! What do you think?

Can you see Freckles? She is our smallest chicken!

Love Day!

2010-02-14T23:43:00.000-08:00

It is crazy! I have had Owen as my best friend for over 6 years! We have been married for 5.5 years and i have loved every second! Thanks for a wonderful weekend. I love strolling down memory lane with you. It doesn't get any better then you Babe! Thanks for all the love a support you give me! I love you, Back! Sweetart*

Ranch Life

2010-01-27T10:11:00.001-08:00

We have a friend who lives out in Campo and has a ranch out there. We love to go and hang with our pals Jim and Nelda. Owen helped jim build an arena for his horses. We also like going because it gives us a reason to wear our Western hats! Plus it is so beautiful out there!!!

Shed Project

2010-01-11T18:01:00.001-08:00

Three mornings of work and I now have a Beautiful Shed. Owen painted the door for me but I did everything else myself! It feels pretty nice. We want to paint our house in a simular fashion so I thought the shed would be a great trial. What do you think?
I like to look at it now:) Next we are going to run power to the shed. I can't wait for that!
Before: So white and boring!

Lavender

2009-12-27T22:44:00.001-08:00

As you can see Janet doesn't want to let go of Lala! We feel the same way. We ware so glad we made it out to Utah for her blessing. We just wish that we lived closer so we could be there more. She is so cute! She loves her Uncle Owen.
Olea you did such a beautiful job making her dress. Keep sewing girl! You guys are so much fun and we miss you a ton! Thanks for letting us crash with you! We owe you!!!

Jeff Decker

2009-12-27T22:20:00.001-08:00

We got a really cool oppertunity to tour Jeff Decker's studio. He is based out of Art City ,Utah. Which is super close to Adam and Olea. Adam has meet him through his work. Jeff is a famous bronze artist. He is 1 of 2 people that are aloud the use the Harley Davidson logo in his art work. He has a wonderful Motorcycle collection which he uncovered each one and gave us a discription! He owns Elvis' old bike!!! Such a nice guy!!! We love the hot rod culture and so we are big fans of Jeff. Check out his work it is really cool.

www.arteauto.com/pages/jeffdecker.htm

The Foundery

2009-12-27T22:09:00.000-08:00

My Brother-in-law works in a foundery. When we went up to visit them he gave all of his family members a tour. When we came they did a pouring of a bunch bronze sculptures. We learned about the enter proccess from start to finish. Pretty cool place. Man does it get hot in there. It is a lot of work to make a sculpture! If you ever get the chance to go jump on it!
Adam, I love your outfit! Thanks again!!!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T12:10:00.000-08:00

We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas! We are spending time together and with friends! We had a wonderful dinner at our friends Jim and Nelda last night! Man can Jim cook! I hope you all can step back and ponder on the reason for the season! We can not forget about Jesus! I hope as you go about your traditions that you stop and take it all in. As soon as it starts it is over! I loved seeing Owens reaction to his lepord bean bag he got! We love each of you and wish we could be with each and every one of you! Merry Christmas! OXOX Melinda and Owen

Lucky

2009-12-13T23:46:00.000-08:00

On Sundays I can't help but to ponder on my week and get ready for the new week approaching. During this process find myself thinking how lucky I am. I just want to write it down so I can always remember how I am feeling.

I am lucky that I have a JOB. A job that I LOVE. I make people feel and look good and in turn it makes me one happy gal. I have the most amazing clients, and I am lucky because they choose me. I feel lucky to also have a Husband that is successful in his job! We went to his Christmas party last night. His employer gave everyone who invested money into their 401K a 20% match! Thank you and Merry Christmas in addition to there other bonus!

I am lucky because I have grown to have such a large network of friends. I have lived in San Diego now for over 10 years. I have made such great memories and bonds with so many people! I love my old and new friends very much!

I am lucky to have my sweet husband. Who understands me, is my biggest fan and loves me for me. He also always opens my car door, even if I am driving. Lucky!!

I feel lucky because we are living our dream! We are working hard and it is paying off. We have our first home and we are making it ours every chance we get.

At the end of my week I pray that I will always have this perspective. That I will always feel this Lucky and blessed!

Being Auntie

2009-11-20T22:30:00.000-08:00

This is Magnus. He a 2 year old with tons of turbo energy! He is the baby. But not for long Owen's big sis Jess is having her 4th! We are hoping for a healthy baby! And if it was a girl we wouldn't frown.
This is Garland. He is named after Owen Garland and his great grandpa Garland. He is the middle boy. Every time I came over he wanted me to take his picture. "Where's your camera?" he would ask.
This is Lavender. She is Olea's first. All of Owen's sisters are in the Mom club. We flew to Utah for her blessing. She is almost 4 months. She loves he Uncle Dude!
These 3 cuties are just 3 out of my 17, soon to be 18 nieces and nephews! I love them all.

Who needs a Drive In anyway!

2009-10-20T23:29:00.000-07:00

Fun in the backyard! We spend many hours out in OUR yard. We have done some much needed work. For example, The nice wood fence Owen and Matty built. Which I am so in love with! Before there was a chain link fence. Our neighbors yard is a big eye sore and they have 3 barking dogs. So to say the least I love that we can use our yard and not be barked to death. I trimmed the tree that is pictured this weekend. Before it was so over grown. Now it looks like a tree and not a bush.
On this new fence of ours we are going to paint a mural. It is shown on the fence in this photo. Owen and I traced the image and the guys are going to paint it on Thursday. It will look super cool as the fence weathers! Are you surprised that it is a bike theme image? I'm not. We love our bikes.
Today when I got home Owen was on a mission to find this cord he needed. It hooks into his iPod and then into the projector. It took a while to find but once he did it is so cool! Now we can plug in his iPod and watch the movies that he records on his iPod. We also found that it works with the iPhone. You can watch YOUTUBE (Or any video on your phone) on the projector. So who needs a Drive In anyway? We have our own in our backyard. More photos of the yard to come as we do more work!

RIP Mikey

2009-10-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

We had MIKEY since Owen's first birthday after we where married. So over 4 years. He was just a feeder fish I got at Petsmart. We would come a kiss your finger when you feed him. He liked to be alone. He didn't like sharing his tank. Such a fun fish. He lived in the kitchen and although it is sad he is gone I am happy about having my counter back!

Project Redo

2009-10-13T23:49:00.000-07:00

Our friend Jason handed a set of four chairs down to use. The before is pretty scary!
But look at the Redo! It is so nice now that all four chairs are done and looking stylish!
I had the fabric on hand. I buy fabric sometimes and keep it for when I have a project. I bought a yard of clear vinyl and we added a bit of new foam. Some sandpaper and a couple cans of spray paint and this is what you get! I am proud of how they came out! Much better.

The Best 5 Years

2009-09-27T23:26:00.000-07:00

We have made it to the 5 year mark! This is easy. I am so lucky to have such a great marriage. THANK you for a wonderful Dinner at Mr. A's! The view was jaw dropping! And you actually surprised me:)

Happy birthday to Owen

2009-09-20T19:55:00.001-07:00

We went to Mr. Tiki's Lounge for Owen's birthday. He turned 30! I can't beleive how time flies.

I Hope we have MANY more birthdays together! I love you, Bubba.

Sixtyith Street 2

2009-08-10T10:50:00.000-07:00

We love to bring to outside in with lots of house plants. Green is in!
Our small collection. The other day I was giving a haircut to a friend in the empty dinning room and he said, "Why do you have two of everything?" Owen and I couldn't stop laughing. We said , "Because they are salt and pepper shakers." To funny.
I love family photos! But I don't like them scatered everywhere so I have all our photos on one big shelf. I love the way it looks.
As many of you know we love cactus and succulents. This is my mini cactus garden that hangs in my living room. More photos to come soon.

Sixtyith Street 1

2009-08-10T10:38:00.001-07:00

We live on a canyon. This is our backyard. Our lot is very deep and has a ton of potential!
This is the office/ guest room.
In the family room. To the right you see a pinkish room that is the dinning room. But we don't have a table so it is empty.
Kitchen we need a new stove. When that comes I will post more pics.

Zenith Zefer

2009-08-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe this was given to us theis weekend! We went over to a friends house to look at a few chairs she was wanting to get rid of. We brought a dozen eggs with us from our chickens. She said she wanted some eggs for the chairs. So we get there and we didn't want the chairs so I gave her the eggs any way. She was showing us around and she said , " That is a radio from the 1930's it works, do you want it?" We said yes so fast! And in ten minutes it was in the back of our truck. Thanks Annetta!! We LOVE it!

Palm Springs -Chase Hotel

2009-08-10T09:54:00.000-07:00

I had a Saterday off so We booked a desert get away for the weekend. After the move and working our butts off we needed a weeken to our selfs. It was HOT but so much fun. We went to dinner on Friday after checking in. Owen was super happy about the large plate of cookies at the front desk for the taking. I think he took one every time we walked by! Then on Saterday we had breakfast at the hotel and then went out shopping. Palm springs is full of Mid Century Modern so we went to drule a little. After that we went swimming in a really warm pool. Took naps and then had a massage!

We then went to dinner at Native Foods. A vegan restuarant. The food is so good! Later we went to the Dollar Theater and saw The Brothers Bloom. The next day we went to breakfast with an old friend of mine. Meet my Mom for church. After church my Mom made a very yummy dinner and my brothers and my niece came over. Justin turned 28 so we say to him and had cake! Busy but a blast we had. Monday came way to fast!

I loved the hotel. It was modern and small which I love. Plus they upgraded our room for us! Perfect weekend. Thanks Owen. I love you!

Yogartland

2009-08-04T20:41:00.000-07:00

We love Plain Tart and Taro!
MoM and Me:) I think she has a bigger sweet tooth then me!

Owen and I love eating out and treating ourselves to yogurt. I say it is non- fat and some of the flavors are sugar free. You then top your yogurt with all kinds of yummy toppings. But its healthy, right. Better then maybe Cold stone? Well we find ourselves and other we know there about once a week. As a minimum. So if you havn't gone yet then it's a must!

Photos I LOVE!

2009-07-31T09:40:00.001-07:00

Time is flying by!

It been a while

2009-07-31T09:33:00.000-07:00

I know I feel off the wagon for a minute. With the move and unpaking it has been a bit crazy. I finally feel settled. So I will try harder at posting. I am going to post pictures of the house very soon. Owen and I have both been very busy with work. We are so lucky! It is reunion wekend in Idaho and we aren't there. Is a bummer but a lot of money has gone out the last few months. So next reunion we will be there. I wish I was on the lake. This weekend is going to be a blast because my MOM is coming and I am super excited:)

Progress!

2009-05-21T07:14:00.001-07:00

Look at my bare floors! We are having them refinished! This is after being sanded. They replaced 25 boards, making my floor perfect! I was reluctant to spend that amount of money on one job but because of a miracle We decided to go ahead and have them done. I think it is going to make a huge difference. We where going to try to do it ourselves but after talking to so many people they said it is a big job and takes a long time to do on your own. So due to lack of time, patience and energy we hired a really great guy. If any one needs wood done Byron is your guy! I will post pics of the finished job!

This is it. Do you see that SOLD sign!

House Update

2009-05-14T09:17:00.000-07:00

So We are in the hurry up and wait stage of the home buying process. We are so close to the end. But my loan officer says that the bank is backed up. It's paper work. It is a little annoying because we are trying to schedule work to begin but can't until we close. So we found someone for a fair price to refinish the wood floors. I am so happy.

We are still going to try to move on the 23rd. Even though it doesn't give us as much time to paint and do some other stuff. But we can move stuff into the Garage, Kitchen and Den. As well as the Shed. So if the floors aren't done then that is the plan. I am trying to avoid paying rent longer then I need to. The house is almost packed up and should go fairly quick. Unlike our last move. I told Owen we are having help this time. He agreed.

So we hope to close by Wednesday , Friday by the latest. So keep us in your thoughts!

2009-04-23T19:53:00.000-07:00

Noun Catcall: a shrill shout or whistle expressing derision or disapproval, as of a speaker, actor, etc.

I am not fond of the catcall but twice today I was somewhat catcalled.

The first MAN shouted at me from across 5th Ave downtown, "Man your gorgeous! Keep smiling and think positive!" So I smile back, I have to say it was nice to hear. I think he was a little off his rocker so I just laugh and keep on my way.

Then the second MAN wasn't so much a catcall but I thought it funny that the same thing happened to me in the same day. So he is holding a sign, Please help, God Bless. So I roll my window down and offer him a ziplock with peanuts in it. He said, Thank You, Man your pretty!

I replied, "Thank you."

So as I drove home I thought what was it about today? Was I just around a few guys that liked a kind face or did they want to catcall me? Or just trying to be nice?

The funniest thing is that I didn't really feel like myself today but it didn't seem to matter.

At least I now know I still got it. Hee Hee

Photo Booth

2009-04-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

These pictures just make me laugh! HA HA

Family

2009-04-22T16:31:00.001-07:00

Jessica the mother of my 3 newphews and my sister in law. This is Magnus he is the Baby.
Garland in the background and Uly giving my LOVE!
We are having fun with the photo booth on my computer. The kids loved it.
My Sweet Peas!

Baby to Buttons

2009-04-20T14:27:00.000-07:00

This is MAGGIE. We became friends yesterday. She is so sweet!
Aaron and Trena blessed Margaret on Sunday so we drove up to see them and our Sister Jess. She is married to Trena's brother. We ate great food and hung out with cool people.
Aaron's Mom love buttons like I do. She made this wreath. I think I have to follow in her foot steps. She also collects honey jars. Trena said we are best friends now!

Hot Hot Heat

2009-04-20T14:16:00.000-07:00

I love this tree. It just happens to be in the front yard of our new house! I am excited we are to close on May 14th. I will post more pictures soon. I have been working a lot and am grateful. I am in the mood for Spring cleaning. It is Spring and it is hot here today! I closed all the windows from having them open during the night. So I am cool inside. We have been signing all kinds of forms. But it is worth it. As I am packing and purging and working... I just feel so lucky! We have a ton of work ahead of us working in 2 houses.

Owen and I have made plans to go and enjoy a day at the day spa after the move. We are going to get a couples massage and do yoga and enjoy the pool. I just keep that in my mind as the scramble beings.

Dillon Road

2009-04-01T17:47:00.001-07:00

In their element! Jason and Owen
Even my Mom was out shooting!
Two bad Gals!

Joshua Tree

2009-04-01T17:28:00.001-07:00

It was a boot weekend!

Taking Lots of pics.
Treasure Hunting!

Honey

2009-04-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

Is there an item or a food that if you ran out of it the whole house would stop! HONEY is a must in our house. I think Owen is addicted. It is fun to try all the different flavors of honey. Every honey is different. It depends of the region and what the bees have pollinated. That will give HONEY its unique taste. I thought you might laugh at how many sources of honey we have in our kitchen.
We have honey for baking, tea, and crystalized honey. As you can see we are in need of a refill.
Even honey still in the comb. You just cut a piece off and eat it like candy! Yummy!

My Thrift Store Find!

2009-04-01T16:52:00.000-07:00

Here are the funny plates I found. I think I want to hang them in the bathroom at the new house. If we end up in a new house. They were to cute to pass up! I love the creative use of rick rack. I love old things!

Our Over Due Vacation

2009-03-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

So we went out to the high desert to Joshua Tree area. We stayed at RimRock Ranch. So much fun. Then went down to Indio to see my Mom. Instead of reporting word for word I am just going to post pictures. I will let them tell the stories of our trip. We went with our great friends Jason and Lauren. Lauren and I have the same camera and we both took sooo many pictures.

My number 1 man!

2009-02-15T19:06:00.000-08:00

I love you and want everyone to know how much you mean to me! Happy Valentine's Day!

Hopfully Soon This will Be Our Home!

2009-01-28T22:28:00.000-08:00

Jamie's Shower

2009-01-26T09:05:00.000-08:00

I work with Jamie and she is having a baby at the end of Feb. I also work with so many talented people. Maggie who does hair love to bake. She made these tasty treats!
Here is Jamie. She is always laughing. That is why I love this picture of her!

I have been having fun with my new camera and wanted to show off some of my shots. I still have a lot to learn.

Owen teased ME!

2009-01-15T10:46:00.001-08:00

Owen and some other guys at the yard found this cute kitty in the coke machine! She was really dirty and tired. One of the girls at Owen's work claimed her but he brought Cola home for a night! She was the sweetest kitty. I wish I could have kept her myself. Owen loved her too. But the landlord says no pets! I love how cats purr and snuggle with you.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T20:39:00.001-08:00

Another set of salt and pepper shakers to add the the collection! Thanks Jill OXOX
Owen got a fancy wood belt buckle from Santa.
Santa gave Melinda a Canon DVD so she can learn all the cool things about her new camera.
My tiny nutcracker. Yes, my tree is silver.
We wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We hope that all of you are well and that you are doing what you want on Christmas. We are just so glad to have some time off together. We are truly grateful for our Savior and for the blessings he as given us. We hope you are all happy and will remember the real reason for the season. Love to all!

Travel Trailer and Chickens

2008-12-18T10:44:00.000-08:00

Ruby the friendly chicken.
Jason- Co owner of the Travel trailer.
Marcus and Freckles
*Marcus, Matty, Owen, Jesus, & Pee Wee

We just recently bought a vintage travel trailer with our friend Jason. We are so excited about redoing the inside and makeing it nice again. We have wanted on for a LONG time and good thing come to those who wait. We got it for a song!

Here are some silly shots of the guys. They love our house and most of the time someone is just hanging around. I think They are like moths and are drawn to the light. They often say they love the feeling of our home!

December Nights

2008-12-18T09:57:00.000-08:00

We went to the Radio Room and saw the Glossines play. Amber is my co worker. She is lead vocals and bass player.
Hang out time in the yard.
Jessica and I at the DB Salon Christmas Party!
Owen has a great mustash! He is having fun.

Denise Barrow, my boss:)

It seems like everyday after work we have something going on! I am bairly home. It feels like I only sleep at home. We have been busy as bees. Parties and shopping and going out! I am excited for Christmas. We have made it a smaller Christmas this year for sure. We are focusing more on the reason for the season and not the buying. If you know what I mean.

A Year has Passed

2008-12-07T21:37:00.000-08:00

Time sure does fly by! I much prefer the salon over school!

I finished school in October of 07' went to state board in November 07' and stated work at the salon on the 1st of Nov. 07'. It is crazy to see where I was just a year ago. I am closer today to many of my goals and that feels great. I have found my place at a fab salon. I pinch myself everyday I go to work. I feel so lucky to have a job that I love. It makes me feel so good when people rebook with me. I have many returning clients and I am loving it. Just a few old pics.

Happy Birthday Mother!

2008-12-07T21:32:00.000-08:00

Happy Happy Birthday Mother Dear

Happy Days to come to YOU all year!

I love You More then words can say:)

2008-11-19T08:40:00.000-08:00

Are any of you as excited about Thanksgiving as I am? I am getting some time off and that makes me happy! I love these cartons:)

I Heart HOBO!

2008-11-19T08:33:00.000-08:00

I have been work'n hard and girl needs a little reward. Right? So I have never had a fancy designer bag before and thought my time was well over due. So I picked this bag. I love the bright color and it holds a ton of stuff. Oh, and I got it for whole sale! Got to love that:) As you get older isn't it about quality vs quanity?

Now that I have Saved!

2008-11-17T00:46:00.000-08:00

I know some of you can relate. I am always looking for a fun and edgy shoe. A pair that I can stand in and work in comfortably. So I went into MINT shoe store in Hillcrest and saw these shoes. I just had to add them to my collection! I LOVE them. They also come in a slate grey color. I am thinking about going and getting the other color. Would that be to much? They are so comfy. They are black suead, the pic doesn't show the true color. I havn't been able to take them off my feet. I would love your opinion.

Coupons equal Cash

2008-11-17T00:31:00.000-08:00

I have always loved the idea of coupons. I love the money saving side of coupons. I never really thought about it until I heard a lady say, "Coupons Equal Cash." When I buy a sunday paper it saves me so much money every week. I have started to shop wiser and watch the ads. I try to only buy what is on sale. Every week each store has different stuff on sale. Yes it is a bit much driving all over. So I shop at Ralphs because its close and they double coupons up to a $1.00. For dry goods and stuff for the house I shop at CVS. They pay me to shop there. Pretty cool. If you want to know more go to CVS.com and find out about there Extra Bucks Rewards. So I had to show you all it is worth pulling and cutting the coupons you find in the paper. I saved over $100. Tell me that isn't worth a little effert! And if you aren't going to use your coupons then send them my way, Please:) If any of you want to learn more and want to see how you can get things for free just ask!

The Mills are coming!

2008-11-10T22:11:00.000-08:00

ADAM & OLEA- I am so excited you are coming out for Thanksgiving! We are going to have a blast!!!
I am sad you don't live closer to me.
You better bring your party hat!!! Only 2 weeks. I want to have a dessert party while your here! It will be delicious! Olea is Owen's sister for those of you who don't know already!

The 4th of the 4th

2008-10-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

I saw this tag on another blog and just like the idea. So this is my 4th picture file and my 4th picture. We are being silly. I think we where trying to print a picture wireless and we took these pictures as our sample pictures. Memory lane...

2008-10-19T22:44:00.000-07:00

This is making my hands dry out! I have sad dry and cracking hands. I guess I rather be busy then sitting around! I am the worst when it comes to putting lotion on.

Jessica

2008-10-13T21:47:00.001-07:00

I went to Sunset Cliffs with my friend to take maternity pictures. I took tons but these are a few that I love and didn't need to edit before uploading them. We had such a fun night. She is due any day now with little Michael James. She is going to be a wonderful mom. She keep saying," You are like a professional." It felt good that she was having fun and she liked my pictures.

Moab Park

2008-10-06T15:56:00.001-07:00

Owen's cousin takes really great photos. So I asked her when we all where at the park in Moab if she would take a few pics of us! She did and these are a few of her favs. I love all of them! Thanks so much. What do you all think?

2008-09-22T11:25:00.000-07:00

Friday the 19th was OWEN'S birthday. So we had a party and boy did we have a fun night! We had a taco man come and serve tacos. We ate so much and the food was really good. So we now are both 29! We are getting older. Not old just older. I fell like I have improved with age.

I wanted to get Owen a yummy cake but he said he didn't want one so, I got a pinata! We all had our turns hitting the pinata and then it was Owen's turn. We blind folded him and spun him around and with one hit he brought the pinata down.

My Pals from work Jessica and Jason:)

We have this great tree in our backyard. You can't help but climb it.

I had to make my famous cookies for my Man!

Group Dinner Date

2008-09-16T07:50:00.000-07:00

We have made some really cool friends. We are always doing stuff on a weekly bases. It cool to have a little family in San Diego. We all just have fun together! All the guys are single but owen so I am always there with rotating girls. It's fun to be like the mamma hen:)
Tommy! is our buddy from the bike shop! He loves bikes too!
Brothers from other mothers!
We walked to and from dinner. I was nice to burn some calories.
My favorit pic of us that night. We are happy. Our 4 year anniversery is later this month!

9/11

2008-09-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

I REMEMBER!

I Love organic VEGGIES!

2008-09-01T00:25:00.000-07:00

I have to say that having a garden has been so nice. The weather in SD is pretty much perfect for growing anything you want. This evening we BBQ'ed and we had the first round of corn that we picked. It was perfect. We wrapped it in foil and put it on the bbq. SOOO GOOD. I picked green beens, green bell peppers and the tomatos are starting to come in!

Update: 3 of our 5 chickens that we were told where hens turned out to be roosters:( So we have 3 still but will be getting rid of the rooster. So we hope to have eggs soon...

2008-08-25T20:15:00.000-07:00

We went and saw the band Cashd out at the Belly up Tavern in Saterday night. We had so much fun. We went with our neighbor Joe and our fun friends Ann and Ryan. We always have so much fun together. We just recently bacame friends when Owen and I moved to our house. Ryan and Joe always where together and then I found out Ryan was married and his wife was finishing her residency and was going to be joining him. So Ann is my new gal pal. We have nothing but god times.

If you are a Johnny cash fan you must go see this band. It is like watching and hearing Johnny himself. This band is the only cover band that has a link on johnnycash.com. Live music is so much fun!

Walker Gardens

2008-08-13T19:59:00.000-07:00

This is what we do now that we don't have cable. We go outside. Look what happend! We are loving all of our fresh and organic food! Come by and we will share:)

To my MOM

2008-08-09T22:23:00.001-07:00

Dearest Mom- I have to take a moment to tell you how much I love you! You are the best. Thanks for all you did and do to make me, me. I am so greatful for all the prayers you have prayed for me. For helping and supporting me in everything I do. Thanks for having my back and sticking up for me! You are my Hero!! To this day I still hear your voice saying,"Remeber who you are."

I hope to be the women you are. I am the way I am becuse of you. You are my rock and without you life would be hard. So there isn't a day that goes by that I don't thank the Lord for you! So just know that you are always in my heart!

OXOX

2008-07-18T23:33:00.000-07:00

I love to take pictures. My sister-in law is going crazy with her mom shots and it has kinda got me focused again. I grew up with a mother and father that always took pictures. So the need for picture taking is in my blood. So on Jessica's blog she talked about taking close up shots. I only have a point and shoot camera. But I put it on a close up setting and I feel I got a good result. I always have loved his eyes! I think in this picture you can tell a lot. I am so happy he looks at ME. I am trying to challenge myself. I want to take a class but life is crazy and time is money... So I do what I can. Let me know what you think.

Malcolm Dr

2008-07-15T22:21:00.001-07:00

I have wanted to post pics of the inside of the house for sometime. I cleaned all day Monday and finally felt like I could show the inside. It is a humble home but we love it. It took a while to settle in! Above is our tiny bedroom. Which fits our bed and one other small narrow piece of furniture with our computer on it.
This is the sitting area near the front of the house and leads into the dinning room.
Entry. With my dresser. No room in the bedroom so it works fine out there.
One of the smallest kitchens ever. The tile is pretty bad but everything else about the house we love. Other then the wood paneling in the drop down living room.
Melinda's Room- My closet and craft room. Owen got the garage I get the 2nd bedroom. We are going to have a house warming party soon.

Worn out Welcome

2008-07-15T22:10:00.000-07:00

We are loving our backyard and so was something else. So we wanted to find out what was in our yard when we weren't. Owen put a trap out and by 12:30 that night our friend was in a tight spot. I am glad that he is gone as it loved our tomatoes as much as we did. So now hopefully we are pest free. The opossum is kinda cute. Owen said it didn't like ridding in the back of the pickup on its way to his new home. I like sharing but not with him!

Critical Mass

2008-06-28T00:37:00.000-07:00

We LOVE bicycles!! Every last Friday of the month all kinds of cyclists meet at Balboa Park and ride all over. The count I heard during the ride was 1070 riders! Super crazy experience. Owen has gone a few months in a row and has always wanted me to go so I finally told myself that you can do a big bike ride. I am so glad I went. I loved it. We start at the park and just take over the road. I love the the cyclist has the power and not the car. So many intersections are blocked and cyclists will block the car from moving until the whole group has passed. Some people are cool and others try to wiggle through. Lots of hooking horns and filkering bicycle lights. This guy riding to my right was ran into and almost took my down with him. Praying to be safe works! Such a great way to see the city. I want to ride my bike more. And that makes Owen happy. I am planning on pimping my bike out a bit! I will post another photo. This is my sweet bike. She is my pal and loves to go fast down hills! Who knew 10 speeds made a come back. We have an obsession with bikes of all kinds. I love riding my street bike.

Kick up the feet

2008-06-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

We are getting so excited to leave on a jet plane. We both jet time off to go up yo Washington. Owen has made a tradition. Every other 4th of July we go to see his parents and visit old friends. The in-laws live really close to the beach.
This is where we are going! Out on the Indian reservation all the Indians sell fire works for a month before the 4th. So on the 4th is looks and sounds like we are in a war zone. But talk about fun!!!
This is Owen's house. He grew up here. I love this place and the stone walkway was done by his mom. Everywhere she went she would bring a rock home. Look at her garden to the left. She is the gardening Queen! Owen woke up today and said, "it's only Wednesday." We are sad the Jess and her family aren't coming;( And Olea and Adam... We know you guys have new jobs and all that but we still hoped they would make it some how.

DB CREW

2008-06-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

Jason Is my new buddy. We keep the salon running smooth! Plus anytime I have a makeup question he has my answer.
Jen- Super sweet and so much fun to work with. We have each others backs.
Andrew - Super good lookin' and has really cool style.

These are a few of my coworkers. I am so lucky to work with such an awesome group of people. It really makes a big difference in my day.

2008-06-10T16:48:00.000-07:00

I love our new yard as I sure you all have figured out. My plants and cactus love it too. Look at how many blooms are on this on cactus. It gets these furry pods and then they grow into this long finger like flowers. They only last a day or two so this is pretty cool.

Gardening!

2008-05-31T17:23:00.000-07:00

Gardening is going to be our new hobby. Since we have the space and the landlord is so nice. She is all about us growing veggies and flowers. So we have been thinking about getting a few chickens. Since we can't have a cat or a dog. They don't live in the house and they give you 1 egg a day each.

So we chose not to get cable and so far we have kept busy with the house and yard. So we went to a nursery today to look at some plants. We found 2 rose bushes we had to have. They each have such beautiful roses. I am going to plant a morning glory at the back fence, away from the veggie garden. But it is going to be so nice.

So while at the nursery I saw a few water lily's! They are so pretty. And I have to say that my little digital camera did a nice job. These are all unedited photos. I will continue to post pictures of the garden. Hopefully I will have so much food I will have to share. The tomato plant is going off! So get ready.

I am in love!

2008-05-31T13:07:00.000-07:00

Ever since I saw this white Peacock I have loved them more. I think they are very beautiful.
Is this not the most amazing bird ever! So cool. I want it as my pet. I like him because he is different. Different is a good thing! What animals do you all love? Tag your it.

The joys of living in a house

2008-05-25T09:56:00.000-07:00

So I didn't really tell you what we are doing. we had intended to buy a home of our own but thing just didn't fall into place. So we knew we needed to get out for managing the apartments, which I still have not been replaced. So I just told Owen lets not settle on a condo. We know we wanted to live in a house and have a yard and garden and not have to pay HOA fees... So we decided to rent a little house and get into a routine. A routine of paying rent and budgeting. We seem to be doing a good job. Don't really miss the rent money because I think it is worth every cent I pay for my peace and quite. I am a happier person.

Work is going well and I will begin to make more money. Another reason to wait to buy. I wanted to be more financially stable. Plus the market is a bit scary.

Here is my list of joys:

No one knocking on my door needing me to fix something, complaining, or telling me they just don't have rent.
No phone calls in the middle of the night.
No floods to deal with.
No laundry room to clean up after 30 people exploded!
No more strangers in my house.
No more bank runs.
No more cigarette butts!
No more baby sitting grown adults.

What does that mean? Freedom!

The home is where the heart is

2008-05-16T23:56:00.000-07:00

We love our new home! It has taken a lot of work to move and get settled. Hard work pays off. I long for the settling to be done and we can kick back after work. So today was prep for our yard sale in the Morning. I hope lots of people find us and buy our stuff. It feels so good to get rid of old things. I am mad at myself about keeping so much stuff that is of no use to me. I think I need to be better about getting rid of stuff. So I hope to turn over a new leaf. Less is more!

Sorry for not posting lately. I will have more time soon. Here are some recent photos.

San Fran

2008-04-30T21:57:00.000-07:00

I finally got my way. We are going to San Fran. I love it there. Owen has never been. We are staying in a nice hotel and just going to do what ever we feel like. Nothings planned yet. Play it by ear. I love celebrations. Many small celebrations rolled into 1 vacation. We moved and after a move how doesn't need a vacation! I know I have been bad about blogging. Once the house is put back together I will post pictures.

My Goal

2008-04-13T09:42:00.000-07:00

Light up the darkness!

Bob Marley

Small Miracle

2008-03-23T20:51:00.000-07:00

This is my brother JUSTIN.

He is 2 years younger then me. He went on a mission but after he got home he strayed from the church. I had always hoped that he would come back and often wondered if he still had a testomony. This week he called me up, which never happens, just to say hi! That alone made my day. But as we talked he told me that we went to church and how he wants to come back to church. I chocked back tears because I didn't want him to know that I was crying. But I was so excited. I told him he should move to San Diego. He said he is thinking about it. I asked him to come visit when he could. He said he was off Thursday and Friday. I told him I had already talked to Eric, my other brother, an made plans for dinner on Thursday and he could join us if he wanted.

This was a small miracle! Jay is coming back to church and that we all meet up just because! Mom would be proud!
I love you Justin!

My Savoir

2008-03-23T20:31:00.000-07:00

I know my savior and am so glad that he has made it possible for me to rise again. Without the suffering of all this for our behalf life would be just until death. To me that is a tragic thought. For me the knowledge that I will be with Owen even after death for eternity is one of the most comforting things I know. I wish I could have the understanding of what it must have felt like for Jesus to suffer for my sins. But the truth is he suffered so that I wouldn't have to! That is the best gift anyone has ever given me! So today I hope that all of you remembered your Savior. Remembered what he means to you and thanked him for his gift.

Love Hate

2008-03-17T20:32:00.000-07:00

I am in the HATE mode of my job here at the apartments. I have had 4 vacantcies in the last 2 months. I just rented the forth one and got another 30 day notice. It never stops. I remember the days when a move out was once in a while. But I just got almost everyone onto a new lease. So after #5 it should mellow out. I love this job don't get me wrong. It has been such a blessing. But I am going on my 9th year here. I am ready to only worry about where I live. I guess I am tired. I love all my tenants, a girl can't ask for more. So I keep telling myself, I think I can- I think I can. It always works out. This time a lot slower then I like.

It has been a bit funny. I have ads out in the paper and on the internet. I have rented 3 of my units to single black females. I had at least 10 black females come and look. And that was the only traffic I was getting. I thought it a bit strange. But all three are so cute.

$7.00

2008-03-17T20:25:00.000-07:00

This is what $7.00 can get you! Not bad. Big Lots. I never seem to find anything good there but today was the exception. I have been wanting my very own fondue pot ever since I attended a fondue party at Natalie's. So I am eager to make fondue. Anyone have a good recipe?

Robbery or Gravity

2008-03-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday after work I went to the mall to get Owen a pair of chucks. While I was there he calls.

"Hi honey how are you?"
"Good."
"I have some bad news for you."
"Okay..."
"I came home and went up stairs and my heart sank because it looked liked we got robbed!"
"WHAT!"
"I came in the office and the room had exploded. I looked for the computer and it was on the floor laying on its side. I soon figured out that your shelves ripped out of the wall and pushed the computer on the floor and everything went everywhere. So you might want to come home now."
"Oh, wonderful so no robber just gravity!?"

The pictures say it all. So Owen went to Target for me and bought big plastic bins for all my scrap booking stuff. I guess that is a sign that I have to much scrap booking stuff:) I can't help it I love the stuff.

Good By Matisse

2008-02-22T16:24:00.000-08:00

This week end my mom was down. I was telling her that I wanted to find a better home for my pet turtle. I had started to feel really bad about having her in a tank. I felt like she needed to be in a yard and have a place to dig and bask in the sun. So she called a few people and found a friend of hers that had a turtle. She said she would love to take her.

So in memory of Matisse.

I named my turtle Matisse not knowing is was a girl.

I had her for 5 or so years. I am sad that she is gone but I feel like I did the right thing.

For Gina

2008-02-16T08:53:00.000-08:00

So my friend Gina is having a baby girl any day now. I wanted to make her a quilt for her little one! I think is came out amazing! I didn't fallow a pattern I made my own. It came together very fast with the help of my Mom. Thanks Mom. So I love to quilt, it is another one of my additions.

Coupon Queen

2008-02-12T22:47:00.000-08:00

To night we went to Vons to go food shopping for the month. I do 1 big trip that way I can do little trips to but fresh stuff though out the month. So we are on a big savings kick right now. I clip coupons out of the Sunday paper and put them in a fun folder. So we make our list from the coupons we have.

Our total before Vons club or Coupons was $273. And after club card and coupons we saved $121. 42% of my total bill. I am well inside of my food budget this month! Saving is fun! You should all try this website. Couponmom.com you have to register but it is totally free. What it does is tells you what is on sale with the club card at what ever store you go to. They have Ralph's and Vons mostly because they double coupons. But it helps you to make your shopping list. It is updated every week with the new store ads. It is such a great tool.

The Getty Museum

2008-02-12T22:17:00.000-08:00

These are a few of my favorites!

Saturday we went to LA to see a great friends of Owen's. Taner and Jojo are friends Owen grew up with. They are worked together on the Dancer in Alaska. We got to LA about 1pm. We soon decided to go the the Getty. It was such a clear day and the weather was really warm. I have been there befor and like to go back because the museum is huge! We went to see the european paintings and photography of east LA in the 80's. I loved it. You only have to pay $8 for parking and all the museums are free. So if you ever get the chance to go, GO! The gardens are unreal. I wish I had a yrd that amazing. The paintings are really amazing when you are looking at the original! Just seeing all the detail.

I heard about an art heist in Europe just this week. It breaks my heart because it is such a miracle that these pieces of art are still around. They are preserved and well taken care when in a museum. Why are people stealing art? I know is is millions of dollars we are talking about but what a greedy thing to do!!!

2008-02-05T20:25:00.000-08:00

There has been so much happening lately! I find myself coming and going! So about a week ago I went to a hair show! It was a lot of fun and exciting. There is so much stuff to be bought and sold for hair! I was really inspired but what I saw. I really love the RUSK show. I don't think that my pictures do any justice but there fun.

So I have to say that the girls at the salon are so much fun! I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with.

Memory Lane

2008-02-02T20:01:00.000-08:00

It is hard for me to imagine my life without my best friend. Life is good all the time with Owen. I won BIG when I fell in the with Owen. They say marriage is hard work, yes it takes work but I wouldn't call it hard! When you wake up everyday to your best friend how can it be a bad day.

Today we were quizzing each other on dates. When did this happen and when did we do this or that.

Owen: What day did I tell you I love you for the first time?
Melinda: The day you crashed your car, Feb. something.
Owen: No, January 6th.
Melinda: You can remember the very day?! Wow. It only took you 3 weeks to fall in love with me.
Owen: No, it only took me 10 minutes to fall in love with you and 3 weeks to tell you that I loved you!
Melinda: almost in tears

Roller Coaster

2008-02-02T19:25:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that we are looking to buy. It is so exciting and fun driving around in a new area. Looking at floor plan after floor plan. I think this is the year for us. It feels right and the market is a buyers market. Money goes a lot farther now. We never thought we would be able to afford a home in San Diego. So it is really exciting. Writing offers and waiting week after week hoping and praying... It is time for a change. I have lived here for 8 years and have worked here for 7. I am getting excited about what I wold keep and what I would get rid of. I am looking forward to the purge! The new start! So if you remember pray we will find our home out there!

The thought of leaving the ward or even being out of the neighborhood is scary but you got to jump to see if you can fly, right?

I LOVE THE SALON

2008-01-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

Work is going well and I am so lucky to work there. All the people are so nice and everyone gets along! It really is a fun environment. The salon just doubled in size so I do more running around but I'm not complaining. I wasn't able to take everyone pic but I got a few and I'm sure I will ad more in the future. I am still the receptionist but I know it will pay off. The salon isn't done yet but it looks great. So now you can get a feel of the salon and who I work with.

KATIE had a birthday!

2008-01-13T08:54:00.001-08:00

For Katie's birthday the 4 of us went out to Gulf Coast Grill. The food was really great. I think I had the best Clam chowder I've ever had there! So we always get together for dinner to celebrate our birthdays. It is always so much fun! So here are some of my favorite pics. Thanks girls for being so much fun. I think we need to have girls night out more often!

Uncle Biff's

2008-01-06T10:01:00.000-08:00

A group of us went to Hillcrest yesterday. We went and sold cloths at the resale shops and walked around in the rain. So after getting back to the car I suggested we go by Uncle Biff's and get a cookie. Knowing how much Owen LOVES cookies. So we pull into the parking lot, park and all get out of the car and file into the cookie shop. I asked Owen what he wanted and then all of a suddent he saids "I don't want one! I am not paying $1.50 for a cookie." Then turns and gos to the car. I was so embarrassed. So I picked out which one I was going to share with my friend and everyone else got a cookie and I even picked out one for Owen. So I get in that car and asked him what the big deal was. He replied by saying," They are a rip off and I will let that cookie rot before I eat it." We went on to have a bit of a tiff about this yummy cookie that Owen hated. I couldn't understand what was so wrong with a $1.50 cookie. Owen says, "It affends me that they charge $1.50 for one cookie, There for I won't eat it.

Well, It didn't rot. And he loved it!

My Crazy Dad

2008-01-06T09:36:00.000-08:00

I have to rant so don't mind me. I have a crazy father. I have been dealing with forever. I have always tried to make him proud but nothing is ever good enough for him. I call him and he gives me a hard time for not calling more or sooner. But yet he never calls me. So I try to keep him involved in my life by at least telling him the important stuff. For example, I got my license. That whole conversation didn't end well. He hung up on me. Which mad me very mad. How rude, right? I mean come on. How old are you? I feel like he is the child and I am the parent. Always worried if he is ok. If he got in a accident or woke up today...So for Chritmas despite us not talking I sent him a Christmas card. In my heart I knew he would send it back but at the request of my mother I went ahead and sent him one. Well I was right. It came back.

So what is a girl supposed to do. Just forget about her father... Keep putting yourself out there to get hurt? Or just go along with it. Leave him alone and just move one. Just forget about it and Him??? I guess I shouldn't care after all he has done to me but I do. I do care about him and the fact that he just isn't himself. That my dad doesn't like me for the stupidest thing. But I know I didn't do anything to him. I can sleep at night. And often wonder what he is thinking in his head. I wonder how a father can be so mean to his family and sleep at night. What makes a person so bitter at his family. His family that just loved him? I don't think I will ever know. And even if I did I don't think it will justify his behavoir.

Christmas is fun

2007-12-26T14:45:00.000-08:00

I was bad and didn't take any photos until Owen and I opened our presents after getting home from Palm Springs. So we look a bit beat up and tired. But we got some cool stuff. I got a rad book and a nice necklace and a big giftcard to a spa from my honey! He got an ipod and a rally cool teapot and some new jammies. Oh and hand made elvis pillow cases. All in all it was a wonderful christams. We didn't have to be anywhere so we did what ever we wanted it was great. I even did a few haircuts and everyone loved it. So it doesn't get much better then that!

2007-12-18T20:30:00.001-08:00

Your 1950s Name is:

Naomi Peggy

What's your 1950s Name?

CHRISTmas

2007-12-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

I love this time of year. Really busy running around and shopping. I really love the time we have to ponder on our Savior! He is one of my favorite people and I am so greatful for all he has done for me. This year has been a jam packed year of blessings. From giving me patience to endure school and my job. For allowing me to do so well at State Board, getting my license, and 1 more amazing year with Owen! I know he is there for me and I am never alone! So I hope through this season you all will stop and remember the reason for the season.

Beat

2007-12-13T22:03:00.000-08:00

So I am finding myself beat. Working 40 plus hours is hard work. I have so much to do! So I am trying really hard t stay on top of everything but I am fighting the lack of motivation. So I want to drop into bed everynight. I am hoping that after the holiday season is over I won't be working 40 hours at the salon. I feel bad for my tenants who never see me. I know a balance will come. I am looking forward to christmas. I think the idea of not working for a few days is awsome. So I will try to be better about blogging.

Christmas

2007-11-26T22:44:00.000-08:00

I am right there with you Jen, I love to decorate. My house is no where near as fabulous as yours but I am beginning to buy things I like. Owen and I decided to get a mini tree this year. It is silver and I can't wait to put it up. Owen says wait until December. So I will. He isn't much for decorations. I do it for me. So our church had an enrichment activity where the women in the ward donated items to have a service auction. I donated a hair cut. Others made bread and cookies. Some made blankets and pillow cases. The list goes on and on. So I bid on a coupon that said "Holiday Floral arrangement" for Thanksgiving or Christmas. I won. I got the chose between the holidays. I picked Christmas. Susan the women that was going to make it. Asked me if I would like a wreath. I said yes. She then asked me what colors. I sad Blue, Pink, and Silver. What I got is amazing!

I was wanting a nice nativity scene. I looked on ebay today and found a lot of ugly sets. I went to the thrift store and this is the set I found. I am quite pleased:) I have a way with thrift stores. I find some pretty cool stuff!

New Project

2007-11-26T22:31:00.000-08:00

So I found the perfect sewing machine! I love it. I am enjoying this fancy new machine because my Mom thought it would be nice to help me get a new machine. She is the best! So here she is with all her bells and whisels. I can sew with or without a foot pedal. It has a start stop button. So cool. You can select the speed you want as well. I am in love. And smooth during sewing.

I have started a new project. Thanks to Mom again I am trying a new quilt pattern. Twisted sister. It was tricky with the first block but I seemed to catch on pretty fast. I have 10 or so blocks donw and I only have worked on it a few hours on 2 different days. My last quilt was polka dots and this one is Rockabilly! Fun. I want to do a western one and I have the fabric to do the pattern Happy hour. So I am booked up with quilt projects:) It is really a lot of fun. If you want to learn you should take a class. I have only taken 1 class. I will show pictures of my progress.

2007-11-23T07:20:00.000-08:00

I wish there was Thanksgiving twice a year! The food is so good and being with friends and family! I wish the US would slow down. It was so cool to seee everything closed. I wish it was like that every sunday. Well that won't happen but I can dream. So I hope you all had a fun and relaxing day! Now that we all stuffed ourselves be careful when excerising! I hope you like my poem:) An those of you that are going out on Black Friday to shop, your crazy!