House Building; Step by Step.... part 2

The first building a house post is getting long so let's divide it shall we.  So much has happened! Our house looks like a house ha ha. 

I am beginning ever so slightly to find my decorations. I have had my eye out for these beauties so when I found them I didn't hesitate and bonus they were even 50% off. Score! I will paint them black but oh my goodness I just think they are the cutest little decorations. No one will have to question where the powder room is unless of course you don't identify with either gender I found this sign for you.

Choosing my floor has been by far the hardest for me. I find what I like only to doubt it a few days later. Initially I decided on the one on the right but it just wasn't singing to my soul. When I found the one on the left, it was the one. I chose this in the pre-mortal existence. It was an upgrade...side note....when you build a house you get use to the phrase "that will be an upgrade" there are options that come as standard (included in the price first suggested for purchase of house) but those are usually the less than desired options at least for this girlie. So my little upgraded floor will set me back $7K but it's my entire main floor, I gotta love it right.

My cabinets are the darker looking piece of wood. The cabinet builder is making my cabinets for the first time. The color I wanted was an ebony color (super dark brown) he calls it black beauty and I will have solid fronts, no design for this girlie.

 So much richer in color and the variations of patterns has my heart palpitating. We are not having any tile in our house..none, zero, zilch. Grout is just not our thing. We have hardwood, carpet and vinyl  throughout the house and in our showers and bathrooms we have cultured marble. Oh it's gorgeous. I promise I will show a finish product I promise.

 This is my sad opportunity to decide on a stain for my banister with my floor and cast iron rods. I think it will look nice. I shared with several friends and family what they thought and it was unanimous they all liked my new flooring. The floor on the bottom is the one I first decided on. Much better choice to change it, don't you think. In the different lighting it looks brown but its a combination of brown and grey, weird I know but its so beautiful.

 So imagine the white wood spindles removed and replace it with black cast iron going horizontal. Its not a huge contrast with my stain and cast iron but it looks so good. I am just so excited. If you are wondering where I am, I am in a home recently built in the neighborhood just a few houses down from ours. No one lives there yet so I use this house to create my dreams. ha ha

 Nate is such a trooper always available for helping me visualize my dreams.

 We have a roof with shingles and a front door and all the windows installed now. We even have door knobs that lock. Its getting real folks.

 We had what Hard Rock calls 4way. It is where Corby and I went through the house and examined every plug and every thing you can imagine. Making sure things are where they are supposed to be. It was so fun because when we finished we went to the model house and decided cabinets and fine tuned the details in the kitchen and laundry room. I love love love designing this house. It is just a blank slate and I have added color and design to my hearts desire. When I say "I", which I do a lot, I am fully aware it should be we but Corby has been very hands off. He knows I have ideas and he is happy to take the back seat. He will design our landscape and other things but for the kitchen he is "go for it honey, design away"

I chose my granite this week too. Use your imagination dark cabinets, brushed nickel handles and this this for countertops. I know, right!!!

 I have felt on top of the building process. A step ahead of their questions and feeling so prepared until this week. So I was thinking about window coverings and thinking what exactly do I want. I thought I would call a few places and hear their opinions on what's the best for my purposes. Well, first place I called was talking about motorized shades. I am like yes, tell me more and more. Long story, if I want motorized I have to have the wiring completed before sheet rock can happen. Well this was Wednesday and I have sheetrock happening Monday. Yikes! I made a few calls and was told well  I can try but its probably not going to happen. I seriously visualized it happening and prayed and kept the faith. Well Monday I got a call asking where do I need the wires. 

People pray works. 

God cares about the little things. He heard and answered my pleas. It's the little small things that tell me God knows me. I don't have any photos but we will have plantation shutters in the front and shades on the back. The motor will be attached to a transformer and it will work off a remote. So when I want to open my windows while I lay in bed I push a button and wha la I have sunshine or not. Spoiled I know. I tell ya you will love them and they are the new way in window coverings. I have what they refer to as a smart house ha ha.

I will add sheetrock photos the second I see those bad boys being hung. Can you even wait? I know I can't. We are approximately 60-75 days to move in.

We are getting our existing house ready for the market. We realize we will be homeless for a month or so but that's why we have a trailer, you think I am kidding but I really am not.  I at first was going to do the work of staining our cabinets and painting our walls but I have found several people who have very reasonable bids and frankly I just don't have the time. Cross fingers that they can get the work done in the next few weeks as the goal is to have our house on the market end of May. Can you believe it?

Tulip Festival

Teesh has been a little go getter this year. She has signed up for many races. She has a half marathon on June 9th. It's how she is choosing to celebrate turning 23, thats my girl Teeth LaReesh. Can you even believe the gorgeous tulips behind Teesh. Oh they are stunning. 

Teesh and I ran for 3 consecutive years the Thanksgiving Pointe Half. Such a beautiful course, super hard course but it was beautiful with the tulips. This year they discontinued it. Sad, but Teesh ran the 5K in our memory. Of course I was there to cheer my girl on. She did so good. She has been struggling with a knee issue and so she didn't want to push herself too much in prep for her half. So she was happy with her time and I say, you finished right? You did better than all those who chose to not run. So you are a winner always.

 Isn't this tree just so beautiful. I take photos of anything that stands out to me. Ha ha designing a home and yard is all time consuming I warned you.

Teesh is #434

I am so proud of Teesh. Good job honey! I will always be on your team and be your biggest cheerleader. Keep going after your goals and sometimes you get rewarded with chocolate milk and cookies. Love you my angel durla.

It's a good day

This week is full to capacity.

Malia and the seminary council spoke in our sacrament meeting. It's an amazing experience if you ever get to  listen do! The spirit was untouchable and to hear the youth in action lets you know our futures will be just fine. I know this generation gets a bad rep and rightfully so, entitled, lazy, the whole bit is true I have witnessed it but there are some amazing youth as well. The seminary council is made up of the cream of the crop. They each spoke on how Seminary has changed their lives and how we can find peace in Christ. 10 of the council spoke and then we headed to our house for breakfast burritos. That's kind of my go to for large gatherings. They can be made ahead of time and who doesn't like cheese, sausage, egg and salsa?

 and I get to use my Christmas present from my parents. It's a 3 crockpot system for serving food. I loved this gift and loved even more an opportunity to use it.

 After the youth, left we got Malia all Purdy and headed to the capital and downtown for her senior photo shoot. This girl is photogenic. I will post when I get them back for sure. Ada wanted to join me so she came with us. She was entertaining herself as I timed her running up and down this gigantic flight of stairs.

 haha not even close to the professionals shots but I wanted to post a glimpse of this gorgeous girl. 

 Monday I had class until noon then met Corby at the new house to do what is called 4 way. We go through E V E R Y T H I N G making sure things are the way they need to be. It was so fun. To see the final project just around the corner. I have kept an ongoing list of the tiniest things and I am so grateful I did. It is impossible to remember everything so to have it written made this process slick. I have more electrical plugs than you ever think but friends I have plans. No more extension cords hanging on the side of the cabinets for decor above. You will see I have thought of everything (I should seeing how I have been designing this house for 12 years ha ha) I had to leave early to get Malia to the international health department for her shots required to travel to the Dominican Republic next month. It took so long Corby had to grab the littles from NPA. The evening was full of homework and more decisions on the house. FYI...if you plan to build prepare yourself to make about 30 decisions daily and I am not kidding so much is involved. Good thing I am quick on my feet as to what I want.
On Tuesday, we were able to watch Malia accept her Keys To Success Scholarship and try for a chance at a brand new car. She secured the scholarship but car slipped through her fingertips. We had a company come out to measure our countertops in this house. We will be renovating it before we sell it. Plan to stain cabinets and banister, replace countertops, add backsplash and redo the hardwood floor. We also plan to fix all the little things that are looking old. We have a neighbor who is amazing and is willing to do all the odd jobs. I will stain the cabinets and banister.  Yikes! It just feels more real some days and today is one of those. My visiting teachers stopped in and we had a great conversation. Neither of them knew we were moving so that was fun to talk about. I haven't been vocal for many reasons but judgement is the biggest. I am not one that cares too much what others think but certain topics I haven't managed as well as I would like. Building my dream home is one of those topics. I will be perfectly honest about my house. It is large. It is extreme in some areas. I have a large family. Once my girls are all married and find mates and each have 3 kids my immediate family will be 27 people. I need a space for my children to feel comfortable. Every square inch has been thought and used to the best of our ability. It has a lot of special features because that fits our lives. I cook a lot. I have a lot of kitchen gadgets, its my passion to cook and prepare fun fancy meals. I need space to make that happen. I can honestly tell you I have never designed any portion of this house with the thought "oh so and so will be jealous or I am better than someone else". To each their own, this house is my dream if yours is different I embrace that and celebrate with you. End of line. The house is expensive (most houses are) Corby does well financially. We are prepared for this house and we will have it paid off in 5 years. There those are my true feelings. So when you read this next part you'll understand better.
Corby shared with his mom our house by allowing her to walk around it. She was quiet while there but has not shut her mouth since. It hurts our feelings and I need to not let it but it does. She has nothing but negative to say. Can't we all follow Thumpers rules "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all" She called my children brats and said that we are just trying to be better than the rest of the family and she said my youngest reminds her of my Sierra and they are both brats. I am jaw dropped shocked. What grandma says that about her grandchildren? She dropped in on Malia's birthday and after spending a few hours here that was her outcome. We are just ok with her spending less time with our family. Corby is just so hurt and I am not shocked. Kathleen rarely has anything nice to say about others, especially us. She is a bitter old woman who can't find true happiness. So thanks Grandma. We will see you the next time someone else invites you because you aren't welcome in our house or lives. Peace out!

Sorry real raw moments .....

We signed up Bria and Ada for tennis lessons. It's been fun to watch talents develop and mature. Bria has promising talent and I am thrilled as we keep striking out on extracurricular activities that spark interest. Their instructor is one of a kind. So funny, kind, and information for the class.  There are 8 students in class and they meet twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday. Ada enjoys class but her heart is still 100% on dance. She will try out in June for a new dance studio.

Wednesday we had piano and homework and enjoyed being home with little to do. That evening we had an air purifier company come out to talk to us about our new home. Long story short it was a rainbow vacuum salesman and we all had a great laugh as we own a rainbow and have for the past 22 years. In the end, he offered a great deal to upgrade our old machine and we jumped. The new machine is so much nicer. Lots of improvements and I am excited for a new home with a new rainbow. I am super excited about the air purifier system. I have a cough that won't go away and I fear it is allergies. So lets give this product a try.

Thursday was Ada's field trip and then tennis after school and then we raced to co-ed softball social. My calling is stake sports specialist and I have grouped with a few other stakes to play our sports. We just don't have the manpower to get the sports program on its own feet. So Brooke and I have organized a system that seems to work. We wanted to all meet before our first game next week so a social was born. I made a huge bowl of potato salad and everyone brought side dishes and we roasted hot dogs. It was such a fun evening. For a tiny minute I thought man why am I moving I love these tribe of people I have now. Of course thats how it goes huh, it's all good and I hope to get the sports program up and running in my new ward. I made some great friends that night but had to leave before we could get a game of softball started. I had to meet with Tracey, our photographer, she took Malia's photos on Sunday. They far exceeded our expectations. So so good. 

I spend every spare minute making decision for the house. It was a good week!

This is the Place Park

Our school goes on one field trip per grade level each year. Each year they ask for chaperones and I do my darnedest to be available for this high sought after experience to earn my volunteer hours. So far I am batting 100% in being chosen. I love the one on one time with my nuggets and I love getting to see them with their peers. Have you been to This is the Place Park? It's seriously such a cool place. It might look like they don't offer much but man when you get inside that's not the truth on any level. So many buildings and each holds an employee dressed in proper time attire filled with knowledge that is just mind blowing. We get to go inside the houses and see how they lived. In one tiny little one room home there was a family of 12. Only the parents get a bed and the children slept on the floor. Boys slept in a loft. There was a petting zoo. The children got to pet a chick, baby goat, sheep, and rabbit. So soft and absolutely adorable. 

 We ate lunch in the park. Ada was stoked to get her lunchable. Those babies are reserved for special days and a field trip constitutes a special day.

 Here we learned about how at the young age of 3 the children begin chores. 3 year olds churn the butter, 7-8 year olds milk the cows. This lady was so cute in her knowledge and was patient with the children and their curiousity.

 We rode a train around the entire park and saw some super cool things and learned great history.

 Here's my co-wart. 

Love my Ada Rae and her personality.

 baby horse and it's momma

 This activity was how the little kids learned how to milk a cow. They would apply just enough pressure to help the bear shimmy up the rope. Creative minds those pioneers had.

 Ada and her friend Kennidee, two peas in a pod.

I didn't get any photos but we also learned how to do laundry and plant gardens. We also learned how to spin wool and make clothes. Did you know one pair of socks took about 15 hours to create. We are so lucky to enjoy the modern conveniences of this day.

I loved being with Ada all day. She is so fun. Her little laugh and grin bring a smile to my face daily. She is so much like Sierra. I have to take a double take often to remember its not de ja vue

Love that my schedule is free to attend field trips and support my girls. Love them all so much

Prom

Once I returned from San Diego, it was a mad dash to finalize prom preparations. Luckily Teesh helped Malia find a dress but shoes, jewelry and flowers were still undecided. We have found a cute little shop to rent dresses. The owner provides options to make the dresses modest which is so nice and she carries so many dresses. Countless options. Good thing Malia knows exactly what she wants. We ordered Jamie a white daisy as that is Malia's fave flower, oh fer cute!

Jamie picked Malia up at noon and they headed to Boondocks with their group. There were three other couples with Jamie and Malia. The weather was beautiful and cooperated well with the plans. They played miniature golf and laser tag.

Malia is similar to Sierra when getting ready for dances. She wants me right there talking and helping and I am not complaining at all. I may not have the make up skills but I can share my time any day with my gorgeous girls. I love the conversations that happen while getting ready for school dances.

 I love that Malia chooses to dress modestly. She is one outstanding young woman. I love her so much and learn so much from her.

 while taking these photos I realized this is the last time this favorite spot for school dance photos will ever happen. May have shed a tear or two. Milestones!

 Bria told me to get a picture of the limo Jamie picked Malia up in. Bria is such a cutie. Her sense of humor is so dang cute. Stay 10 forever you cute little Breeta.

 Prom 2018 was the best one yet Malia said. She told me she just loves Jamie so much and had the best time. She also told me she is going to marry Jameson. I am 100% on board with that my sweet angel Malia. He is definitely a keeper!

Leaders; San Diego

Every year Corby's hard work gets rewarded with an all expense paid trip to different parts of the country. Usually out of the US but this year we went to San Diego. When we arrived at the airport, the airline helpers asked if we were sky priority or first class. Corby continued toward first class and I was confused. That little stinker of mine surprised me with a first class experience. It was glorious. Spacious seating. pillows. Blankets. Snacks and not just typical airline snacks ha ha. It's fun to do different things than we have ever done. Thanks Corby for working hard and creating a fun eventful life together.

It was fun while we waited for our flight to see our friends from Oklahoma arrive. They had a connecting flight in Salt Lake so we were able to get caught up. They are basically the only other couple who doesn't drink alcohol on these trips. They do drink a glass of wine here and there but nothing like the other folks we spend the week with. To each their own, but I prefer remembering my vacations ha ha

Once we arrived in sunny San Diego we got settled and had a meet up that evening with the other attendees. Corby finished 3rd this year out of thousands of agents. I am so proud of him. He was only a few hundred dollars from 2nd place so lets see what next year brings.

It is always fun to see familiar faces once a year and get caught up. Even though my preference is Gwynn and Scott, I do have many friends in this circle.

One thing about these events is we don't lack for food and fancy food at that. I am always so stuffed with the amazing food options. So much fresh sea food just makes me so happy. Nothing beats a coconut shrimp!

Monday morning, Corby was asked to present on a panel so we spent the first morning apart. I caught up Kelly from Arizona, Gwynn for Oklahoma, Christine from Connecticut and Brenda from Washington. We discussed important matters; eyelash extensions was on the top of the list as well as  body building. Several of my friends have interest in both these areas and I couldn't be happier. Love talking about fitness especially with others who are similar in age. Age is a factor in exercise and weight loss. The younger you are the easier the process the older you get the trickier it can be. Relatable is my favorite!

After Corby finished his presentation that he nailed BTW. Everyone in that meeting came out and greeted me with "Corby did an amazing job, He is a great agent, He is a comedian, etc". Love seeing Corby find his niche and excel. Most don't know this side of Corby and its time his true character was exposed.

The day was spent relaxing pool side and enjoying the sunshine. At 4pm we loaded a shuttle and headed to La Jolla for a fancy dinner at Eddy V's. Have you heard of it? yea, me neither but wow it was amazing. Have you ever eaten dinner that took 3 hours? We had several experiences where dinner was 3 or more hours. When it takes 3 hours, you know you are about to indulge in some gourmet experience.  Restaurant was beachside so you heard the waves crashing against the rocks and the birds chirping, the atmosphere was memorable.

Curtis and Brenda from Washington

 Before we ate, we explored some quaint shops on the strip. This National Geographic Gallery was mind blowing. Had to get a photo of the elephant for the lovers in my family. So cute.

 This photo was just breath taking. My photo is a pathetic replica. Just take my word, gorgeous

 We sneaked down to the beach for a quick glimpse. I love the ocean. Water is my sign(more on that later) water gives me direction.  So of course being this close, we took advantage.

 Excuse the windblown look it wasn't even windy until you got close to the water. My happy place

 seals on the shore

 Swordfish steak with crab and avocado with truffled macaroni and cheese, asparagus and just so much more. The good thing is the portions are small so it allows you to eat the 7 courses brought out. You think I am kidding but I am not. We had appetizers, bread, chowder, salad, main dish, side dishes and dessert. It was a lot and then all those who were drinking alcohol, so much alcohol served. Its crazy to watch and see that much food and drink be devoured. I got funny looks each time I ordered water at these fine dining. What can I say, I am a water girl always and forever.

 Upon returning to our resort this was our view as we strolled home. Gorgeous!

 The next morning we ate yet again. Did I mention they feed us constantly. Good thing its high quality food and pretty healthy. Corby got his runny eggs.

 I ordered an omelette full of fresh vegetables and delish tomatoes.

Today we are headed to a safari. I didn't take as many pictures because Scott had a great camera so he will send them and I will upload them. We rode in a helium balloon. It was so fun. We rode a tram and saw so many animals. I didn't know this safari existed but its definitely a place we will revisit.

 This is an orange tree. It is the coolest thing ever, smells so good and the trunk is beautiful. I would love one of these in my backyard. and the orange was like nothing you could imagine. Best way to explain is comparing it to a vine ripened tomato. So fresh and full of flavor.

 This is our view from our deck. There were at least 7 swimming pools at this resort.

 Tonight was celebrating the reason for the trip. 

Awards Banquet! 

I was greeted at the door with a rose, fun! Corby has earned this trip 6 years in a row which puts him in the Leaders Circle. He also exceeded the requirements to attend which put him in the presidential circle. He has a special leaders sports jacket and gets extra acknowledgment and recognition at the awards banquet. He finished 3rd in the company. Do you understand what an accomplishment this is? The company is a national company with thousands of agents and Corby is the 3rd top agent. I am so proud of him and his goals and how he gets after what he wants. He use to be a shy little boy who could barely speak to a group and now he trains and mentors others to get out of their comfort zones and chase dreams. I could not be any prouder of him. I love you Corby Earnest Hansen. You make life amazing and even though we have our differences, we make a pretty amazing team. Love you honey. Speaking of honey, I took this photo because this, this was so yummy and such a great idea. To honey is on the bottom with butter with cadence salt (its flavored with wine) the combination of flavors was divine. So yummy. Try it (without the wine salt ha ha)

 lobster and steak with vegetables to make you drool.

 The Leaders Circle

 My man in lights!!!!

 We are up on stage receiving Corby's many awards

my rose

 The following day Corby went golfing and I relaxed with some pool side reading and then got an amazing massage. I enjoyed the spa after the massage and just soaked up the sunshine. I need my vitamin D. 

Most of our friends went on the wine tour so we enjoyed a quiet day relaxing and spending time alone. 

That evening the Presidential Circle met for an exclusive dinner at a steak house. There were 8 couples who made Presidential Circle out of 200. The others ate dinner at a close by Italian Restaurant.

 golf course

 My dinner  ha ha. I am going to prepare my carrots like this next time I cook them. Brilliant idea and they were glazed with some yummy sauce. Can't beat a baked potato with a steak. Of course I got a doggy bag and John says, "Where did you grow up Jennifer, I replied Idaho, we love leftovers for breakfast" Country gal in me, can't hide it.

This dinner was close to $250 for just mine. 

Serious money dumped this week on food.

 Dinner was followed up with a brownie sundae. When I tell you this changed my life you must believe it. The nuts were roasted. The ice cream was real and the brownies were like nothing I had ever eaten. I was seated next to John Haver's wife. John Haver is in the corporate office and is over a lot of Corby's office directions. His wife was so fun. She was so real. You know when you get around people who make a lot of money you fear you won't relate or measure up but she was so genuine. She has two daughters with the oldest graduating in June. We talked about seniors and the stress/excitement that comes we it. I enjoyed my evening. Corby and I were seated with the #1 agent in the company. It was also fun to pick his brain and learn from him.

 What in the world??? I could not pass this up as I walked past it in the airport. 

Seriously ha ha!!

 Well it's time to go home and get back to the grind. I love these 5 day get aways with Corby. It resets our live and helps us establish new goals for the upcoming year. Next year Futurity First is taking us to Puerto Rico. They showed us a video of what the resort looks like. Can't wait for next April, its so beautiful.

I miss my angels and always am happy to get home. Malia picked us from the airport and Teesh came down for the week to make this all possible. I sure love my girls and appreciate all they do.