Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Life Since my Last Post

Wooow it's been quite a while since I last wrote. However, I got an itch to write again and decided it was time to let ya'll know what's been going on in my life since then.

JUNE
The end of June was tumultuous for the Challis Family. Josh got really sick one week after not being able to get rid of a cold. The last few days of June we spent together in bed as I tried to keep his high fever down as best as possible. After a week of moaning in pain, not being able to eat much or sleep for that matter, I finally convinced Josh it was time to go to the hospital. He was admitted after a four hour wait with Pneumonia and he spent the next 3 days being poked and prodded. A week after he was released he finally regained his strength and was doing so much better; That also has to do with the fact that his mom came to be with us when he was in the hospital. She was so helpful in taking care of Josh while I worked and she fed us some yummy dinners!






Right: Josh getting admitted as well as some breathing treatments (antibiotics, etc)

Left: Josh and I enjoying his last day in bed watching movies





JULY
Was a very hot month especially in San Antonio where we spent 4th of July at a family reunion. Josh was still recuperating from his illness but we had fun sight-seeing, watching fireworks and spending time with family. Funny Story: Josh lost about 10 or so pounds during the time he was sick and all of my aunts and uncles noticed. They would comment, "Man Josh you look like a stick, is Melissa feeding you?" With my family all averaging 5'5 or so Josh is a giant among us standing at 6'4. Usually my family thinks Josh eats all my food bc he looks so well fed while they think I look too skinny. It was nice not getting those weird looks of suspicion for once. In my family we like to eat so when you don't you get funny looks.



 Left: Josh acting goofy on our tour boat of San Antonio Riverwalk. Josh had never been, other than the heat, he loved it.

Below: We visited the Japanese Gardens which were gorgeous.

Bottom Left: Man vs Food....I finally fed Josh :) 60 inch pizza which was finger lickin' amazin' (we had left overs for 2 days split between 10 people)














AUGUST
We made it!!! ONE YEAR under our belt and it feels great. We celebrated by going on a cruise to Belize, Roatan Island and Cozumel. It was a blast, all the food, the sun, the food, the activities, the food, and the food was amazing :)

Some of our friends thought going on a cruise our first year would be hard to top off in the future but we like to Go Big or Go Home! Our adventures serve as great reminders of our youth and those memories become more beautiful each passing day. I've grown into the type of person that sees the positive and light in things. I always try to find the good so when I remember back on these memories I only remember the great times we had. Because let's be honest people 7 days on a ship with my husband, parents, and siblings was not a picnic everyday! It was just great being all together.



SEPTEMBER
Is our relax month. We went to a Rangers Baseball game with some of Josh's co-workers. We went to Speed Zone on a work outing that I put on for our Dallas team. We went to Conroe to my dad's ranch with all of our cousins to go mudding. Yes, this is what a relaxing month looks like. We like to have fun and keep busy!












OCTOBER
Is a bittersweet month because my youngest sister Giselle left on a mission to San Francisco/Oakland Visitor's Center. It was amazing to hear her testimony and how she has matured over time. I know this experience will help her grow in many ways but it was difficult to let her go. I write her just about everyday and think of all the craziness our family will miss while she is gone. However, she is in the right place at the right time doing the right things.

 Left: The last Sunday we spent with Kika.

Johamy was M.I.A. (actually she was in Provo, UT and sadly couldn't make it down).
I'm going to miss my Krazy Kika

Right: Just after landing from sky diving in Moab Utah (2011)...a graduation present she got me.

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

He likes - She likes = Our life

It's June 19th almost a year of marriage and each day is a new day, a new lesson learned. Here are 19 interesting facts:

1. He likes to listen to talk radio.
     I like anything BUT talk radio.

2. He hates anything wasteful.
    I waste most things.

3.  He reads science fiction.
    I write creative non-fiction.

4. We love watching movies.

5. He loves everything about animals.
    I'd rather experience animals in 2D.

6. He is addicted to politics.
    I'm addicted to fashion.

7.  He dreams of living in the country.
     I'm ok with being a part of a country living inside a BIG city.

8. He loves mustard.
    I look good in mustard color.

9. He Googles anything and everything. He loves to research things.
    I got my degree in 2011. Haven't written a research paper since!

10. We hate math. Enough said.

11. He cries during sad movies.
      I Laugh Out Loud every time I see... The Stars are Brighter (minions) 

12. He looks to the future.
      I stay in the present.

13.  He wakes up with a smile on his face.
       I wake up wishing I had a meat cleaver in my hand.

14.  He loves to drive fast and get speeding tickets.
       I drive fast and never get speeding tickets.

15. We love to cuddle.

16. He is cheap.
      I love to spend money, it's therapeutic.

17. He has little patience.
      I have enough for the both of us (for now).

18. He turns into a beast when he's hungry. (This is typically every 2 hours)
      I am a bear if you wake me up from a nap or in the morning.

19. We love each other unconditionally.

Note: Part II will come out some time in the near future.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Okies and Guns

Josh and I have discussed guns in our home but it wasn't until a few weeks ago that Josh got this feeling he should purchase an AR-15 to begin his arsenal as part of our protection. Let's attribute this feeling to his disdain for our current government leaders and the ever imposing doomsday which plagues our society.

These babies are quite expensive so naturally he had to convince me of the sell. He's a salesman so that wasn't too hard. The deal was, "You can spend $2500 on something you really need". My response a few days later, "I want a Mac ohhhh and a sewing machine!"



Josh was too excited once we agreed on the deal that he immediately emailed his grandpa Hank for advice on the gun. The response he got is UNBELIEVABLE and something we were NOT expecting. Grandpa Hank replied, "Josh what a coincidence, a while back I bought you an AR-15, all you need to do is come pick it up but I bet you won't want to wait until Christmas to do that!"

That next weekend we were driving to Oklahoma with my sister Giselle in the back seat drooling on her pillow while Josh and I jammed out to Bon Jovi. It's about a five hour drive so to break up the monotony of the road we stopped at a fruit stand (which by the way had amazing nectarines and peaches) and mostly chatted about religion and politics. It helps that there was a referee aka Giselle in the car.

When we got to G-pa Hank's house it took every ounce of will for Josh to not turn the conversation towards the gun. Luckily men think alike and G-pa Hank brought it up. Josh was so excited to go shooting the next morning even though he was feeling sick and his throat was aching. He rose out of bed about 6 in the morning without an alarm clock! Needless to say he spent 5 hours out at the shooting range getting his gun ready for regular use even foregoing lunch. That usually doesn't happen in fact it's nearly impossible, he get's very grumpy without food and simply cannot function.






Gun range + Josh= Happy Man






Well the trip was short but Josh got his AR-15. We are now one step closer to living on a farm or ranch in the middle of nowhere, Podunk USA.  

FYI...I'm now working on my side of the deal...maybe my parents can buy me a sewing machine?!

Friday, May 10, 2013

Cinco de Muddo Run

A months ago I came across a Groupon for a 5k obstacle mud run and my first thought was YES! I can do it!! (silly me...)

Josh was against the idea the entire time...and I mean every step of the way he was kicking and screaming. Let me explain:

  1. He is a sprinter not long distance runner
  2. He thought a 5k meant 5 miles (insert me laughing my head off)
  3. We later found out we were going to be moving into our new apartment on the same day
So the Cinco de Muddo Run was planned and my cousin Marty and Abby came along with us as well. We did very little training for the run during our preparation for the day. I figured I was running a mile or so 3x a week on the treadmill so 3 miles would be a cinch. 

We got to the ranch a little late and were the last ones to arrive in our wave. To our amazement and deep concern the first obstacle was to swim across a river. It was a muddy, slippery bank and the water was freezing so before I could chicken out I started swimming across with full force (I should have stretched before the fun too, oops). 

It was nice running through a forested area because it was quiet and we could actually run through it rather than meeting an obstacle every 100 yards (I later found out I had a few rashes on my arms and legs from running through the brush). The trail we ran on was very narrow!

We entered this "Fun House" which was NOT fun at all. We entered this dark maze made out of wood with tires and mud as a pathway. Let's just say my shoes did not survive....If you have ever had to use an outhouse just picture yourself walking through it!!

This is some of what my poor delicate body endured...









 Needless to say I did fail the course AND sprained my ankle BUT I got a medal for finishing :) #I'mnoquitter #neverenteringthearmy

This is what I thought I looked like.....

But my husband probably describes me more like this...

This was us at the end of the race. We were Team Rangers!!




So after a long morning of killing my body we got home and started packing up our stuff to move into our new apartment. Good thing our friends came by to help us, we would have died if we had to do it alone! My dad and sister happened to drive through town from Provo and I fully took advantage of that help as well. I love our new place...it is still in the works but the best thing about any abode is wanting to come home after work and feeling peace and tranquility (our patio overlooks the grassy grill area we share with a few other apartments). It's an amazing view for an apartment complex, I even have a huge tree that gives us shade and we are on the 2nd floor. I've gotten Josh used to the good life and now he can't go back! HA HA he now appreciates the fact that we each have our own sink in the bathroom. Ohh the little things in life....


Thursday, May 9, 2013

Ft Worth Arts Festival

I know it's been a while since I've written in my blog...It's like me trying to write in a diary (not gonna happen consistently but I try).

A few weeks ago Josh and I decided to try something new. We asked our friends John and Cassandra to come with us to an Arts Festival. Before the festival we went to this hole in the wall Mexican restaurant (I found a groupon online and thought it may be worth it). Food wasn't bad at all! Although the location looked iffy.

Then we got to the festival ...


The sun was out and it was a beautiful day with a slight chill when the wind blew. There was a lot of crazy looking art which of course was just up the alley for Josh (don't worry he will NOT be decorating any walls of our home). 

We got pulled aside by some guy asking if we wouldn't mind being interviewed and of course Josh threw me under the bus, "I don't want to do it" he exclaims, "But she will". "Um sure," I respond a little hesitant. He goes into his spiel telling me I'm going to be interviewed by Lea Michele (who happens to be standing in the middle of this crowd with over sized black sunglasses and 5 shades too dark). I was confused as I got closer to her and the guy says just go with it and then the camera was on.

(Disclaimer: I watch Glee and this was NOT Lea Michele no matter how much she wanted to be. Not even a mile close)




Apparently this young lady also named Lea Michele had made some painting/artwork on the set of Glee and she wanted my opinion on it. The conversation went something like this:

LM: Hi I'm Lea. I made this on the set of Glee. What would you pay for this?
M: Ummmm honestly? Like 10 bucks
LM: *Scoffs* Um ok well this is going for about $28,000 in New York!
M: Really?? What's made of geez??
LM: *Laughs* Well I can't tell you that! So what do you see when you look at this?
M: Hmmm it looks kinda cool, almost looks like you a bunch of magazine strips and glued them in different places and glossed over them. 
LM: Ok so would you hang this in your house.
M: Ohhh no. 
LM: Ok well thank you (insert M here...pretty sure she was rolling her eyes under her sunglasses)



I guess my frankness wasn't what they were looking for. But honestly I took one art class in college and all I could think of if Duchamp can make a toilet art this wannabe can make it somewhere too. I just didn't understand why she thought using the name of Lea Michele and saying that she made the artwork on the set of Glee would actually sell the piece of artwork. I guess they were expecting an idiot or ignoramus who would fawn at the feet of a "celebrity". EPIC FAIL. 

The experience was fun. There was music, art, food and lots of people watching. We loved it. 

Afterwards we went to the Water Gardens, which was just a few blocks away from the Art Festival. 







Monday, March 25, 2013

Newly Wed Game

Last night we had a couples potluck/game night. It was a lot of fun! The food was every word you can think of for delicious, (so much so we all took pictures with our iPhones of the recipe) we had Chicken Taco Pie. It might have been the extra chilli powder Rian put in the pot or our growling stomachs that made it taste so yummy.

After dinner we played the Newly Wed Game.

Rules: Everyone gets pieces of paper and a pen. There are questions you will answer either about yourself or about your spouse. For each question you get right there's a point given to the team. NO CHEATING (no eyebrow raising, mouth twitching, or winks to signal answers). This is a game about how well you know your spouse.

Contestants:
1. Wilhite's: 8-9 months of marriage, Rian is loud and Cari is quiet.
2. Seegmiller's: 9-10 months of marriage, Stephen and Megan were once asked, "What kind of nerds are you??"
3. Beck's: 3 years of marriage no kids, Cassandra has "The Look" down pat! John gives her a lot of practice
4. Challis': 7-8 months of marriage, Melissa (me) is the enforcer, Josh is the rebel.

We had about 20 rounds (questions). Here are a few examples:

1. Wife: If you were a Disney Princess who would you be? Beck's guessed correctly (one of the few) CINDERELLA (John says because of her two sister....more info was not given haha)

2. Wife: What is the most annoying habit about your spouse? Wilhite's did NOT guess correctly but Cari said Rian being loud and he said not cleaning up after himself

3. Wife: My husband is the best at ______ and the worst at ______? Challis' got it right CUDDLER, CLEANING

4. Husband: What will your first child's name be (bonus if you get the middle name too?  Seegmiller's agreed on Luke Stephen and Emma Riley (They even know their second son's name! That's teamwork right there)

5. Husband: When was the last time you stayed up past midnight other than going to the ER, pharmacy or grocery store? Seegmiller's went to a concert however the date was not specified and Stephen was holding Megan up most of the time because she was falling asleep (Can't keep a teacher up on a school night!!)

6. Husband: What was your spouse wearing on your first date? Wilhite's couldn't even agree on what was the first date needless to say Cari said work clothes and Rian said a jacket!!!

7. Wife: If there is ONE thing that belongs to your spouse that you could get rid of, what would it be? Challis' wrote down their answer immediately....SCUFFY (aka Josh's cat, I'm still working on my genius plan)

8. Husband: What is your spouse's favorite flower? Beck's got it! John said Gerber Daisies (which are her least favorites and SHE GAVE HIM THE LOOK), he smiled big and responded, "Peonies" and then she smiled in relief.
Final Score:
Seegmiller's WIN IT with a high score of 15
Challis' followed with a close 13
Beck's tried their best and came back from 0 to an impressive 7
Wilhites trailed behind with a 5 (I suggest some practice for the next time we play lol)

We had a great time with some wonderful friends while enjoying getting to know each other a bit more.

Thursday, March 21, 2013

What do YOU do for fun?

Josh and I are in a rush to get everything paid off so that we can enjoy life and as he says "get out of the rat race". So we are paying off his school loans (which shouldn't take more than 4-5 months). We then want to pay off our cars as well. Dave Ramsey calls it the Snowball Effect and it really works. We have already paid a few other things off and are well on our way to enjoying more of our money the way we want to.

POINT IS: We need ideas of what to do around Dallas that is free (or very little cost)!!!

We usually have date night once a week but we run out of ideas. Please help us fill our calendar by giving us ideas on what to do. 

I've listed a few suggestions that came to mind:

1. Work out (I got a free 7 day pass to 24 hour fitness)
2. Picnics (when the weather cooperates, Texas is very fickle one day it's sunny the next it's pouring rain)
3. Walks around our apartment complex (There isn't great scenery around our place, mostly road construction! When will 183 be finished??)
4. Attend the temple (It's a pretty long drive which means a lot of gas but it's one that we try and make at least once a month)
5. Watch movies at home (we are pretty frequent to Redbox, I get weekly texts from them giving me $0.50 off my rentals)


Can you think of any?

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Yeeeehaaaaw!!!

This past weekend Josh (and I) drove down to Houston to spend the weekend with family. (Josh hardly ever likes to be in the passenger seat!) We got tickets to go to the Houston Livestock and Rodeo which also included a concert by Luke Bryan.

We got to Houston right around dinner time (perfect because of course my mom made my favorite: Lasagna).  We sat and talked for an hour or so. Our family conversations usually consist of poking fun at one another (it's how we say I love you). Josh fits in quite nicely, although he hasn't poked at anyone else except me and on occassion, my little sister, Giselle. Later that night my cousing Priscilla aka Prissy and her friend Taleen arrived as well. It was almost midnight when we went to bed and Josh had to be up early the next morning to go play soccer with my dad. (Something he was NOT looking forward to because he's not that great at it). My dad basically wanted to show off because he's great at soccer.

The boys played soccer while we got ready for the rodeo. I did sneak in some kolaches that morning from Kolache Factory (a MUST whenever in Houston). Josh walked in looking like a beat up pinata! He could already feel his aching muscles giving out. So finally around 11AM we headed out to the rodeo. It was a pleasantly sunny day with a light wind to keep us cool. We of course ate as soon as we got there. Who comes to the rodeo for anything but the FOOD?? We ate BBQ of course. I couldn't decide on what desert I wanted afterwards there were so many to pick from (candy apples, fried oreos, fried cookie dough on a stick, shaved ice, etc).

We walked around the expo area where we came across boots, hats, jewlery, purses, mattresses, trucks, tractors, cows, chicks, camels (not sure why they were there??). My dad ended up buying a massage chair which was amazing!! (Can't wait to try that baby out for more than 2 minutes!!) Finally around 3:30 PM we made our way to the top of the Reliant to see the rodeo. My favorite is the bull riding and mutton bustin (little kids ride sheep to see how long they can hold on, it's the sweetest thing).

Luke Bryan was pretty cool during the 3 songs I knew lol The sound guys weren't doing their job so it was hard to understand what he was saying since his band was drowning him out. I enjoyed Brad Paisley a lot more last year. After the concert I was starving so we got a turkey leg for 12 bucks haha soooo delicious!!

It's a great tradition we have started all because Josh wanted to ask for my hand in marriage!! We celebrated one year that he nervously asked my father for my hand in marriage. It was an awesome weekend.

FYI: Josh has been walking with a stick up his butt for about 4 days and counting. Ohhh the joys of discovering your age and that you're out of shape.

Friday, March 15, 2013

Freaky Friday

I woke up this morning hitting the snooze button about 20 times! I have an alarm at 6:45, 7:00 and 7:15 yet somehow I dragged my butt out of bed around 7:38AM. So much for alarms. Anyways as I was getting ready for work I began thinking about the dream I had just had. When all of a sudden Josh interrupted my thoughts as he awoke. SPOILER ALERT -I am crabby in the morning. I hate mornings. Mostly because I'm forced to get out of bed before I want to and because it takes me an hour to adjust to being awake so it's best to stay away from me or.....you get this!!!






We said good morning and I went back to getting ready. (He knows the drill by now). Anyways he starts to ease into conversation and tells me he had a dream about us getting married again! GASP!! (don't worry it's a good gasp). I responded, "I had a dream about us getting married too and we were in Mexico and you got to meet all of my family". Most of my extended maternal relatives have not met just other than through pictures and one quick Skype call. His dream on the other hand included us being out in the ocean. I'm surprised he didn't Ninja attack some giant 10-legged octupus trying to kill us or something, Josh is usually the Hero in his dreams.

This freakiness reminded me of when we first started dating and nine days into it we both were having a conversation on the couch discovering that we had both looked up wedding rings earlier throughout the day(something neither of us had ever done during courtship with anyone else).

"Great minds think alike"

Wednesday, March 6, 2013

Star Struck

This past Sunday, Josh and I were able to attend a Church Educational System devotional during which a speaker discusses a religious topic for about an hour. Usually it is attended by youth of our church or young single adults. Seeing as how Josh and I are neither but we still desired to go our bishop gave us tickets.

Elder Bednar and his wife came to Dallas, Texas this past weekend in hopes of enlightening the minds of many young Latter-day Saints. It was held at Texas Hall, University of Texas Arlington as to accommodate the large multitude.

Josh and I were so excited to go that we got ready about an hour and a half before the devotional and headed out the door. Except, we were met with opposition! A FIRE of all things! No, don't worry not in our apartment but one nearby which had fire trucks, hoses, and police officers blocking off our only exit! FRUSTRATED was an understatement. Good thing we have friends that love us and they saved us two seats 7 rows from the front.



We finally got there with enough time to chat and catch up with a few old friends. Some of our friends like Elise Crawford sang in the choir which was amazing to hear. Sister Bednar spoke first and warmed our hearts as Elder Bednar followed with such motivating and kind words. His main message was to not shrink in the face of trials. (you can read the entire Message yourself, I strongly suggest it). My favorite quote states, "strong faith in the Savior is submissively accepting of His will and timing in our lives — even if the outcome is not what we hoped for or wanted". This is exactly what I needed to hear at the time even though I have heard it before, it's a great reminder.

After the devotional we got in line to say hello and shake the hand of one of the apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was an experience I will never forget especially because of how good it made me feel to be part of such a wonderful church.

After the devotional we went to a friends house to hang out and catch up. We rarely get to see our single friends now a days. I guess when you get married that means most of the single's don't think to invite you to come hang out anymore lol

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Run in with the law

I believe it was our second or third date and Josh was pretty excited...I mean so excited that we made it 100 yards out of the apartment complex and he was being pulled over. He claims he was playing with the radio and wasn't paying attention to how fast he was going. I had seen the cop first and didn't say anything figuring he had seen the cop as well. The cop gave him a ticket and we were on our way. It was the kind of experience you can only laugh to get through and so I did. Josh seemed a bit embarrassed but I still liked him.

If my life were a movie, the audience would have realized that those red flashing lights would have foreshadowed what was to come. 1 year and 1 month later we are at 7 speeding tickets and counting....

I have been lucky enough to witness 2 of those tickets. Josh is polite and takes his tickets gracefully, knowing full well he is at fault. He never gets warnings or even asked why he was speeding. They take one look at him ask for license and registration and come back with a ticket. He must have an invisible sign on his car that says "I SPEED FOR A LIVING".

Usually Josh takes a deferment which allows him to pay the ticket and then go 3 months without getting another one (hopefully) in order to keep the ticket off of his record: Another reason why Texas is so cool!

So we were in the middle of one of his deferments (and married by this point I might add) and on our way to church one beautiful Sabbath morning when nothing could go wrong we thought. WRONG! Josh was going about 5 over the speed limit in a residential area. We were about to hit a red light as a cop car slowly approached us going the opposite way. As Josh made it to the red light the cop car about 200 yards away turns around and comes toward our direction. Of course Josh had been watching the cop this entire time because he knew that he was driving over the speed limit. Our hearts began beating wildly fast and Josh began freaking out! "I can't get another ticket! I won't! You have to switch me right now!"

He made a quick right hand turn and sped up to try and get away. In hopes of losing the cop he turned into this Donut shop, he parked and we were out of the car before you could say kolaches! He handed me the keys and we raced inside. There were a few other people waiting in line and they must have thought we were crazy. I mean I had a panicked look on my face and Josh was red and sweaty all over. Josh kept a watchful eye out the window to make sure the cop didn't follow us. We looked at each other and just laughed as we finally inhaled some air and relaxed a little. The cop was gone.

I took the keys from him. Drove the speed limit to church. We were a little late but it was an adventure for sure. There's a folder in our cabinet of important documents specifically named "Josh's Tickets".

He has slowed down his driving quite a bit and isn't as aggressive behind the wheel. We laugh every time we pass the Donut shop on the way to church :)    

  

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Beginning of his 26th year

I had been planning this day for quite some time. Everyday I spent a little bit of time researching and finding the perfect gift, a delicious meal...well basically an unforgettable night. I wanted to show Josh just what celebrating birthdays is all about. He doesn't seem to get the big "hoopla" I know it is!

So I gave this man the time of his life.

February 1st we awoke and I sweetly whispered good morning as he got up to get ready for work. I stayed in bed anxiously awaiting his departure (I took the day off). I kissed him goodbye and immediately I went into party planning mode.

I worked out a deal with his bosses and got Josh a half day so I only had a few hours until he returned. I decorated our dinning room area and baked him a cake and then got pretty for our special day together.


I got him trick candles so he had some trouble blowing them out! 


He opened his gifts. I got his some tools to start wood carving. He's been wanting to start a new hobby. Hopefully one day I get a chest or jewelry box. 

Then we went to the movies to watch Warm Bodies. There was one other couple there as well. Josh didn't really like it. Of course, what boy enjoys watching a love story unless they're with their boo? 

Warm Bodies (2013) Poster

I had previously made reservations at Simply Fondue for dinner. We had the chef's choice which was 3 courses. We chose cheese, meats, and deserts. It was an AMAZING and very filling experience not to mention extremely delicious (and well worth the price). 


After we stuffed our faces we went to Kim n Dale's Bed & Breakfast (click on the link to view pictures of the log house) which was a new experience for the both of us. I didn't realize I was setting the bar so high! It was such a pleasant experience and a wonderful way to end our night. 

When we got to the log house we settled in (luckily we got the house to ourselves) and got freshly baked cookies at 9 PM. We were so tired from gorging ourselves that we didn't have much time to enjoy the entire house however we did take advantage of the jet tub in the master bedroom. It was the MOST relaxing bath we have ever taken. And then we jumped into bed which was Tempurpedic, so after sleeping like babies on the plush bed and feather-like pillows we only had one complaint: NOT ENOUGH TIME. 

We had such a great time and Josh felts so pampered and loved. We are definitely going back there again. Kim was such a sweet host. We woke up and opened the door when all of a sudden a rush of smells attacked us. Kim had eggs, potato wedges, fresh fruit, biscuits and gravy, fresh orange juice, and bacon ready for us on the table. I could already read Josh's mind as we ate the delicious meal, I wish we could stay!  



Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Rain, rain go away

Don't get me wrong I don't have a grey cloud following me around. Things are pretty great in paradise. It's when I take my boat and row over to the slave house that things take a turn for the worse.

Let me preface this: I love my job, no really! I absolutely love the relaxed environment, the knowledgeable colleagues, PTO, easy schedule, and so much more. BUT this month has proven to me just how behind most of the world really is when it comes to technology and how rude they can be when they are frustrated. It has been a busy month to say the least.

The times are changing! Why aren't people catching up? You can't get online and print your W-2? Well sorry to disappoint ya but USPS will not be here much longer! Everything is online now a days. There are computer classes that can help you better navigate the world which is literally at your fingertips.

It's my rant for the day. I am thankful for the actual rain we received today. It always makes the world feel more refreshed. Maybe tomorrow will be a better day :)

Life's little treasures

In this day in age everything and anything is all about instant gratification. We need it now. We want the latest and newest edition. We crave for more. We love it now and hate it tomorrow. We must live in the moment because that's all we have so basically eat, drink, and be merry because who cares what tomorrow brings.

That's the message the media sends out through movies, TV shows, and music. George Strait tells us "I'm not here for a long time I'm here for a good time". Or Ke$ha who proudly announces in just about every song "to make the most of it" who cares about tomorrow's consequences? TV shows like Two and a half Men or Anger Management produce bad role models like Charlie Sheen. Yes I recognize that he stars on both series at one point but he is the epitome of my exact point I'm trying to get across. I don't think I need to explain just how movies affect us. They should just change the rating system to validate what is really being portrayed.

It used to be enjoyable when I could go to the movies with family and friends and not be disappointed because the selection didn't include all R rated movies except for a PG family movie. It's sad to see how the world is changing little by little we have lost values and morals. Instead of enjoying what matters most like family, nature, animals, and taking part in the lives around us we look to electronics when bored.

5 of life's little things:

I enjoy watching the leaves turn gold and auburn during fall.
I love to hear the ocean beat against the sand, fast and powerful then gentle.
The smell of fresh cut grass is so crisp and vivid in my memories that I imagine it to be so much sweeter when I actually encounter it.
Singers are so talented, their voices carry emotion and travel right through me. ( I love to sing so I'm thankful Im not tone deaf).
Sifting my hand through fine sand while feeling its cool temperatures warm up against my fingers feels wonderful.

You see all these experiences are dying in our culture. We can no longer see, hear, smell, touch, or taste what is around us and appreciate it. It's an ancient art form and those who know how to understand it are not passing off the information. For our children's sake I hope we will find a way back to the path. And enjoy life's little things...

Saturday, January 26, 2013

Dreams vs Insomnia

Lately I've been having some weird dreams. I usually didn't ever remember my dreams because when I was a child I wished to not dream. I had to give up the good dreams so that I wouldn't have nightmares.

But recently I wake up and remember at least one or two of my dreams. Sometimes it's just bits and pieces of the nights dreams.

Josh like any male dreams about being a ninja. Basically the perfect archetype for the hero. He is a protector by nature and it seeps through to his subconscious. He's such a stud in his dreams. He always gets the bad guy and has all these amazing skills like sword fighting, and jiu jitsu.

I on the other hand have dreams about cleaning the kitchen (that's my angry dream coz no one wants to help but everyone makes a mess). I dream about going to work and never being able to leave because my stack of work never seems to dwindle. Other times I have nightmares most of which I wake up crying, sad, and hurt. Those don't last too long in my memory bank mostly it's a nightmare of emotions not visually.

I realized my undesirable dreams have become quite frequent visitors for about the past two years. It's been a whirlwind of change during the past two years and maybe my subconscious is fighting me or rather the unconscious part of me. Perhaps I am battling my id, who clearly does not want my ego to win. Therefore my dreams are a representation of what life would be like (i.e. NOT fun). My id teases my ego by demonstrating what a drag life could be as an adult. But my ego knows better than that... It's the constant struggle to leave behind childhood and enter adulthood. Something very few of us want or even fully achieve.

So while my id and ego duke it out my super-ego stands watch and referees.

Resolution: Dream catcher

Friday, January 25, 2013

Girls night

I had the great pleasure of spending my Friday night with two amazing girls: Chloe and Julie Eisermann.

Chloe is an intelligent fifth grader with a colorful personality that is both appealing and gracious. She plays the violin like nobody's business! And has eyes the color of spring as winter melts away both piercing and kind. I love her enthusiasm for all things girly (something we both share). Her goodness radiates from her sweet smile, it is hard to resist not giving her one back. There's an energy within her that is contagious and fun.

Julie on the other hand is young and quiet. She follows her sister, mimicking her every move while still retaining her uniqueness. This adorable little first grader stands her ground when necessary but quiet is her refuge. With her wispy brown hair out of her face you can see her sage green eyes earnestly looking back at you. Although she is shy, if you allow her she has so many opinions to offer up. Plus she's great at picking nail polish colors that go well together!

No doubt they will grow up to be beautiful women inside and out. They have a strength they gather from their amazing mother. I had a fantastic time talking and giving our cuticles attention. Makes me so much more excited for motherhood and the possibility of daughters.

Their middle sister Heidi couldn't make it tonight because she had a school project to work on but I look forward to getting to know her as well.

It was a great girls night!!!

Thursday, January 24, 2013

Bad to Worse

Today was awful to say the least.

From the time I woke up this morning to the time I came home it has all blurred into a big blob of bothersome period of living.

My sister Giselle could usually alleviate my moody moments with her witty words however now I turn to Josh. Usually he says something sweet to me with an earnest look in his eyes and kindly kisses me to soothe my woes. In my case today, I would need all those things times a 100 to begin to alleviate anger built up inside.

It starts with a pinch and soon it turns into punches and finally your on the floor looking up as fists are pumped in the air victoriously. (I imagine my Mii after a match against Josh in just about any sport)

If we let the anger build it can destroy us. So what if the neighbor thinks you can't park! Maybe he was in a bad mood. The woman on her cell phone can't make up her mind on which lane to take. Maybe she just got some bad news and has to take a different route than planned. Or that Mr. Know-it-All employee is rude and argumentative. Perhaps he is just old and cynical? Lol he probably needs to be killed with kind words. My "favorite" today was the man calling in for his wife demanding (and cussing at me) to have her W-2 mailed to their address because they don't know how to use a computer. It's 2013 .... Keep up with the times!!! Or find someone to show you.

Bottom line: no one wanted to take responsibility for their actions. My neighbor wants to blame me bc he parked too close to the white line. The woman on the cell phone looks surprised when people honk at her... Get a Bluetooth or get off the phone and pay attention. Mr KIA blames me for the fact that he misread the brochure full of important information on the changes to his benefits! Apparently except means to include in his vocabulary. And least of all the over zealous frantic husband trying to get his taxes done before you are even allowed to file them! HnR Block isn't going anywhere last I heard.

That's my rant for today. I usually try not to be negative in my posts. No one likes a sour puss. So my turn... I should take responsibility for allowing these little things to frustrate me and put a pinch in my day. I have removed myself from humanity and after some needed alone time I am feeling relaxed. I am blessed to have made it through today :)

Wednesday, January 23, 2013

Distractions

I have already failed my writing goal this year of not writing everyday but I will continue nevertheless.

Yesterday was awful at work. The seconds couldn't have gone by any slower and work couldn't have been any busier. When I got home I was beat but I still managed to gather enough strength to go to the mall with Josh.

It was nice spending time with him during the day (he's been working til 9pm just about every night). It almost felt like date night.

Josh bought a new backpack for school, which he starts today! I got my ring cleaned and inspected. We took pictures in a booth (it's my krptonite... I see a booth and something takes a hold of my legs and somehow I end up inside taking funny/cute pictures).

The best part was seeing Josh get all excited when he saw Swords, Knives, and Beyond!! It's not really called that but might as well be. It was like giving candy to a child or jewelry to a woman. He was so enthusiastic about looking at the merchandise. His collection holds about 20 at the time and he's gunning for 500 (no pun intended). Heirlooms he calls them. One day our sons or daughters will be nerds or violent. JK :)

Knives are pretty good tools. Josh happen to put one in my purse just in case a dog (and I don't just mean the ones that pee on hydrants) attacks me. I've already used mine this morning, of course it was to cut off a string hanging off my shirt. Maybe that means he's not ready to put a gun in my hands. I do have a bit of bad history. Accidents happen! Lol my scar looks pretty cool now that's its healed.

So we cuddled as we watched a redbox movie at home and we had a perfect happy ending to our night. So my distraction is a good excuse to slack a bit on my daily writing.

Families that play together stay together.

Monday, January 21, 2013

Fake it til you Make it

I heard it all the time in choir class in high school and it definitely served as a good life lesson.

Being an adult there's a lot if things we have to do wether we like it or not. I don't like to wash dishes but I do it because I have to. Kids have to eat their veggies to grow up and be strong. Men have to talk about their emotions to connect with their wives. The list is different for every person but whenever I come across a chore I hate to do I fake it til I make it.

I believe the paths we take in life apply as well. Every decision we make brings on us a consequence wether good or bad or both. We grow as children and make friends. Some try to find themselves by trying a little of everything. Most people fall in love once or twice. Marriage is an important decision as well as children. Choosing a career is among the big impacting decisions but they all have side effects as I like to call them. Some days are better than others... We just have to fake it til we make it.

Friday, January 18, 2013

Literally

Every year my father likes to adopt a new learned word in which case he uses in excess during any and every conversation.

This past year his word was: literally.

I mean he literally used it after every word, literally. And he would even tack it and the end of every sentence.

His enthusiasm was beyond measure. His hand gestures, pitch, and facial expressions were an added bonus.

So in his honor... I found him a funny. I look forward to his new word in 2013.



Thursday, January 17, 2013

Born this way...Or Not

What makes us who we are?

Darwin's cousin Galton liked to think of it as nature versus nurture.

We've heard it over and over again. There are countless studies. Different views and opinions.

Recently I've had friends and loved ones make decisions that takes them on a completely different path than the one they originally started. An action causes a reaction and thus a chain of events proceeds.

I've always been a quiet, shy individual but I wonder if my parents had stuck me in acting classes would I have blossomed into what my environment prepared me for? Or would I have just sunk instead of swimming?

As young children our nature runs wild until the nurturing part comes in and we begin to learn social acceptance. During these phases in our lives where we learn how to act, how to obey, or how to be accepted: Is there really any changes happening or are we just pretending to be accepted? Do we follow in order to please or be rewarded?

What I have learned over the years is that I had innate qualities and talents when I came into this world of which it is my responsibility to share and expand them. Many of the qualities I possess now also derive from learned experiences and from mistakes or risks I have taken. Sometimes I have even let things happen to me which have changed my course entirely and then "Meli", my inter voice says, "Recalculating" (Yes, of course it's in a British accent).

I am a product of
love,
joy,
religion,
youth,
leadership,
commitment,
faith,
power,
knowledge,
and only I decide, who I become, my destiny.   

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Shopping with a man

Don't try to stop me. I know the side effects. I have been warned.

Josh and I decided to go shopping today. Of course his idea of shopping includes walking at warp speed through the mall from the sunglass hut to Dick's. NOT OKAY!

He's been working a new job which is taking up a lot of time and today is his day off. So we decided to spend "quality time" together: annoyed yet satisfied.

You see there's some endorphine in the body that releases a chemical, enabling us to be happy after making a purchase even though I'm annoyed that I can't really BROWSE the store and he's annoyed because I'm taking too long to decide if emerald green or fuchsia looks better on me (he just nods and agrees). Men just aren't good shopping buddies (there are some exclusions).

But I take whatever time I can get with him because even though I know I'll end up tired from running through the mall, I'll have him by my side.

Maybe any time is quality time?

My language of love is physical touch. He's usually extremely touchy in public. Maybe this isn't such a bad idea :)

I'll just have to get my retail therapy in some other way.

*side note: I wish my sisters lived in town

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

CHEERS to New Years Resolutions

A Successful 2013=New blog design + 1 Post everyday - Sundays + 33,000 hits

My vacation is over and I have decided to return to the land of the writing. As you can see there are a few changes for this year. I won't be specifically talking about the "Challis'" every post because well that would be boring and narcissistic (that's what Facebook is for).

To be honest I had been lacking the right amount of creative juices and kick start to put me into gear. Writing after all is like any other talent or hobby. You must practice and shape your craft. After watching "The Carrie Diaries" I felt injected with an immense desire to write and similar to the main character, Carrie, in the show: find my voice (or in my case redefine)


From a very early age in life, I felt drawn to the written word. Anyone who knows me understands one thing above all else....I am a listener and observer. Quite ironic that I talk for a living (for now anyways).

I thought I had it all figured out somewhere in between Sophomore and Junior year in college. Lo and behold I was completely wrong. Living away from home, becoming an adult, traveling, and failing or falling a few times in life amounted to "Rites of Passage" and nothing more. I had a miniscule idea of what it could be or maybe what I thought my voice should be but no clear definition set in place. A few months after graduating the craving to constantly write dissipated. I was left with an emptiness that lasted what seemed like an eternity. A few dark months and very minimal writing later, a change wrought within me. Like a click of a button instantly my life was rearranged (or maybe finally fell into place). It was as if I was looking through a kaleidoscope and seeing bright colors and shapes for the first time.    

2012 brought much needed light and love into my life. So I was busy cultivating, remembering, enjoying, and understanding those moments of life (among other things which leave little time for writing).

My goal for 2013 is to take my short lived life experiences along with those of strangers, family members, or friends and insert them into my writing. Through my words I hope to give people an experience of emotions. Most of all I want my voice to be heard and for it to make a difference.