Lauren Nicole

2012-01-22T19:37:00.002-07:00

This girl gets home tomorrow. I AM SO EXCITED! I am getting my best friend back!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

Quote of the Day...

2012-01-16T17:26:00.003-07:00

In respect of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, here is a quote I LOVE and have been thinking a lot about lately...

"Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step."

Happy Monday! Back to work tomorrow! But Bear Lake on Friday!! Woo WOo!!

2011 Recap

2012-01-08T19:41:00.008-07:00

2011 was a great year for me...I'm a picture freak...so here is my recap via Iphone photos...

Finn became a Gardner.

I graduated from the University of Utah.

I helped put this crazy concert together. Bono should thank me...and all of Rice Eccles Stadium.

Many hours at the pool.

The fam went to Sin City and stayed at the Bellagio.

Trips up Millcreek Canyon.

10 Year Anniversary of 9/11.

Attended Olympus Athenian performances.

Hung out a lot with this cute girl and her hubby.

New York!!

Spent a little time with this kid.

I cannot wait to see what 2o12 has for me. I have a feeling it is going to go down as one of my most favorite years so far. I can just feel it. Some of my goals this year (it may help me follow through if I type them on this here blog thing), 1. Craft at least 6 things the whole year (silly, I know), 2. Bake more, 3. Gym 3 times a week, 4. Read at least one verse of the scriptures each day, 5. Be a better friend. The list goes on and on...but let's stop there. Internship starts tomorrow! Ahhh. Updates to follow!! Happy 2012!

Rice Eccles Stadium

2011-12-14T09:44:00.008-07:00

Tomorrow is my last day working here at the Stadium and I am very upset to say the least. This has been my home away from home for 3.5 years. Events have been my life this entire journey. I love them. And my love for party planning has only grown during my time here at the stadium. I have worked extravagant weddings, small banquets, elaborate holiday parties, football games, basketball games, gymnastic meets, March Madness Tournaments, Supercross, and the U2 Concert. I have got quite the event resume!

(photos courtesy of the stadium, please do not replicate)

I love everyone that I work with. They make coming in to work so much easier. They are upbeat and very optimistic. I am going to miss Dave, Leif, Melissa, Jinous, Kristy, Amanda, and Reagan sooo much!

If you are interested in booking a wedding or event at the stadium...please do! It is gorgeous and the staff goes over the top to get you exactly what you want! :)

I love you guys!!

The Countdown Begins...

2011-12-08T08:58:00.003-07:00

(I hope to look as gorgeous as 'Blair Waldorf' while cruising the streets of NYC...ha. Funny Joke)

In one week from today I will be boarding a plane to NYC. I am soooo excited. I think it is safe to say that it is any girl's dream to go to NYC... during Christmas time! Time square, shopping, cool sites, shopping, Christmas decorations, shopping, delicious food, and shopping. Yep, we will be doing a lot of shopping. Actually, all of my Christmas shopping. I haven't done one bit of it yet. If I can't find it in New York, then it must not be meant to be. I am very very excited. Next Thursday... please come fast.

Until then... I am helping Meg throw the most amazing Christmas party. Cannot wait!

AND...

Until then... I must say goodbye to Rice Eccles Stadium...this has been my home for the past 3.5 years. I am sad. I love my coworkers so darn much.

Forget Me Not

2011-11-28T09:02:00.002-07:00

I am still thinking about the lesson that was given in church yesterday. It was on the talk by President Uchtdorf. If you would like to read the whole talk, click here! But the part that I can't seem to stop thinking about are the 6 forget-me-not's. 1- FORGET NOT to be patient with yourself. 2- FORGET NOT the difference between a good sacrifice and a foolish sacrifice. 3-FORGET NOT to be happy now. 4- FORGET NOT the WHY of the gospel. 5-FORGET NOT the Lord loves you. 6- FORGET NOT the Lord is always with you.

I have so much to be thankful for right now. This Thanksgiving week was just perfect and I got to spend so much time with the people I really love and care about. I have an awesome job and I am starting an internship in a month. I have the most caring parents and the most loving sisters. I am dating the most amazing boy and he has the sweetest family. I feel on top of the world right now. Happy Monday!

2011-11-14T10:04:00.000-07:00

This is truly amazing. This is made entirely out of jelly beans. It took 22 months, 1,357 hours, and 30 people to put it together.

Obviously FEAR is not a FACTOR for you.

2011-11-08T10:50:00.003-07:00

Yep, that's right. Fear Factor is coming back to NBC. The ridiculously disgusting game show is coming back to television. My family watched this for FHE when I was a wee child, and I even got a Fear Factor ornament for Christmas Eve one year. I was OBSESSED! Sick and wrong, I know. But I am soooo excited. December 12th!! Tune in, I know I will be! And yes, Joe Rogan will still be the host. Yipppeee!!

Happy Monday!

2011-11-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

This makes me smile

2011-11-04T08:50:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday!

Happy November

2011-11-02T09:24:00.003-06:00

I love the crisp feeling in the air. I love wearing cute scarfs and new cute boots. However, I am not the biggest fan of the white stuff. It is beautiful and I love it around Christmas time, but I would be perfectly happy if it only snowed in the valley... in December. It can snow in the mountains all year round for all I care, but down here... I can pass on the whole snow till May dealio.

Happy thought # 1 for the day... I leave for this place in 44 days. Ok, that's kinda a lot. But I am still sooo excited about it.

Happy thought # 2 for the day... Thanksgiving is in 3 weeks. I love Thanksgiving so much. I am such a traditional girl and I love getting together with my family, eating yummy food (none of this from the box stuffing junk, everything is homemade....everything), and making fun memories!

Happy November. This is going to be a good one. I can just feel it!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!

2011-10-31T09:05:00.005-06:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

I promise I can count....

2011-10-30T11:36:00.003-06:00

Only 1 day till Halloween. Not 2. I can count. I went to school. I graduated from college. Promise.

Halloween Last Year

3....

2011-10-29T13:38:00.001-06:00

Tonight is our Halloween Party! Eeee! Pics to come soon!

4...

2011-10-28T09:01:00.002-06:00

5 days and counting....

2011-10-27T09:03:00.000-06:00

Happy

2011-10-24T10:55:00.004-06:00

I am a happy happy girl today. Why you ask?

This album came out today! EEEEee!! I have been waiting for months.

This boy is amazing. He ran to the store for me this weekend while we were hanging with friends, just to pick me up some medicine.

This family...AMAZING! They make me soooo incredibly happy!

This time of year, breath taking. I think I am going to start a count down to Thanksgiving. One of my favorite holidays.

The Bieb now has TWO Christmas songs released. Here is one of them!

Paradise

2011-10-19T14:07:00.000-06:00

I love them with all of my heart.

The longest post I have ever posted.

2011-10-12T10:48:00.004-06:00

4 1/2 years ago I was a timid freshman starting my first semester at Utah State. I had NO idea what I wanted to do with my life, and I had NO idea what I wanted to be when I grew up. My first semester went by in a flash and I met some pretty awesome people, however, I came home for Christmas break and never returned. I enrolled at the University of Utah and took a class on Human Development. Instantly, I knew I wanted this to be my major. Really? Seriously? Am I sure? This thought popped up in my head a million billion times because so many people told me that during their college career they switched their major at least 5 times. Really? Seriously? Am I sure? I haven't even explored any other major. Yep....this is what I want to do.

Now, what do I do with my major? Human Development...hmmm. I met with my counselor that first semester after I heard about a career in Child Life Therapy. When I told her that I was interested in this and would LOVE to work with children in the hospital....that wonderful nice lady told me I was crazy. She said that if I lived anywhere but Utah I would have a chance. She told me that there is only one internship program in the whole state, and it is nearly impossible to get into because of the mass of people who apply for it. I left that appointment feeling really defeated. But I kept on going. Took class after class on child development. Told everyone I know that this was what I wanted to be when I grew up...and almost every time I got a response like, "What the heck is that?", or "Good luck with that one."

(Side note: Child life specialists help children to cope with the situation of the hospital. They explain procedures, provide play activities, and are a strong advocate for the child during that scary time of being in the hospital.)

3 more years passed and I still wanted to be a Child Life Specialists. Crazy I know! I graduated from the University of Utah and I am so proud of that. This summer I started to apply for the "Impossible" internship. I was very nervous about turning in this application but figured I had nothing to lose. On September 29 I got an interview for the Child Life Internship position. I freaked. And I almost wet myself when they told me the interview would be 45 minutes long AND....I had to present a presentation. I freaked even more. I had a week to prepare. I rehearsed a million times in front of my family. I rehearsed to Matty. Matty gave me an awesome book of how to interview "well." Breathe lauren. Breathe.

The interview came and went and I left the interview feeling confident but nervous. (I made pumpkin bars to give to my interviewers, how could they not pick me? I made them dessert.) But I still had the thoughts in the back of my head of the many people who told me that this internship is "Impossible", nobody ever makes it their first time.

Yesterday, I received a call. THE BEST PHONE CALL I HAVE RECEIVED IN THE LONGEST TIME! Lauren, we would like to offer you the position of the Child Life Intern. Yep I got it! I screamed, I smiled from ear to ear, I screamed (Matty was there to witness). After 3 1/2 years, I finally did it. I got so much negative feedback from people, and I blew them all off.

(Another side note: during the 3 week period of waiting to hear the news, I applied for nearly 15 jobs in case I did not get the internship and I did not get one interview. Not ONE! This is truly a blessing and I KNOW this is what I am suppose to be doing)

So here's to an adventurous 4 months ahead of me. And p.s. Never listen to what "people" say you can or cannot do. If you have a major goal in mind....DO IT!!

(This is gonna be ME!! YAAAAY!)

2011-10-11T13:31:00.001-06:00

Stole this off of Makia's adorable blog! This girl is awesome! And I LOVE this song! Oh and you should check out Makia's blog if you wanna see some amazing stuff. Love you girl!

Catch and Release

2011-10-10T09:38:00.003-06:00

One thing many people don't know about me is, I know how to fly fish. Yep! And I love it! I haven't gone in the longest time, but whenever I go I have the greatest time. This cool guy taught me everything I know!

He is actually starting a business in the fly fishing industry. He is so nice, non-judgmental, and super adventurous. This is one of my most random posts, but today I had the sudden urge to get on some waders and go fly fishing! Anyone want to join me?

2011-10-05T17:22:00.000-06:00

This is the best thing I have seen in the longest time!

http://youtu.be/C7hTAp6KrGY

2011-10-05T15:26:00.002-06:00

Oh my goodness gracious. I just finished Scorch Trials and I am dying to read the third and final book. It comes out next week. I recommend both of these books if you are looking for something you can't put down!

Uhhh

2011-10-04T13:06:00.007-06:00

Ok seriously?....

http://youtu.be/iANRO3I30nM

And, no Iphone 5?! Umm kinda disappointed. I watched a live blog and pressed refresh for an hour just to find out about the iphone 4S. WHAT THE HECK, APPLE?! I still love you. And I love my 4 sooo much....and my ipad 2. That is all for today.

Random post for the week....

2011-10-03T12:07:00.004-06:00

(He is no longer this little, or this innocent looking)

Finn a.k.a Marley (from Marley and Me), did not let me leave for work in peace today. He found it appropriate to eat both my breakfast drink and yogurt that were placed on the counter top before I got back upstairs. Seriously. It all happened within 3 minutes. Happy Monday! Have a good week y'all.

And, I saw this story on the Today show last week. So stinkin' cute!

http://animaltracks.today.com/_news/2011/09/27/7974512-cliffhanger-can-a-mama-lion-save-her-cub

It was Enchanting to See HER

2011-09-29T09:32:00.008-06:00

Last night was magical. Magical is the best word to describe it. Miss Taylor put on quite the production. Every song had a neato set, the dancers were awesome, and she changed outfits (at least 20 times) into the most glitter-ful dresses I have ever seen. Is glitter-ful even a word? It is in Taylor Swift's world because glitter was EVERYWHERE!!

During the concert she came into the audience and sang RIGHT in front of us. Matt swore that him and Taylor made eye contact with each other 2 different times. ha.....Match made in heaven? Hmm maybe! Come back soon, and hopefully I will have the videos up! You need to see her in action!

Dirty Dirty Dash

2011-09-28T11:27:00.004-06:00

(before...)

We did it! We completed the Dirty Dash...and we only got one busted up ankle! Yay!! I would do this race again today if I could. It was so much fun to have my family there too!

Here's to Taylor Swift tonight...(pictures to come after), the most crazy stressful interview I have ever gotten on Thursday, and Game Day on Saturday. The Utes take on the Washington Huskies. This is a great week!

A New Season

2011-09-23T14:15:00.005-06:00

It's officially fall. All of my favorite shows are now on tv again. As much as I loved the Bachelorette and Bachelor pad, I need something...different. Modern Family on Wednesday did not disappoint. Loved it.

Grey's Anatomy will be the death of me someday. I get stressed, angry, happy, and sad. Each of those emotions were expressed last night while watching the season premiere. I was super emotional during this scene:

Who takes a baby as cute as that from McDreamy and Dr. Grey?? That is not right. And I was very upset about it. They also need to stop fighing. Everyone needs to get along. Christina needs to have a baby. Bailey needs to stop being mean. The Cheif can't leave. I don't know how I am going to survive this fall.

One Week Away

2011-09-21T11:38:00.003-06:00

I have been waiting for this moment for two whole years. (Last year her concert sold out in 2.3 nano seconds, so this year I was smart and used an American Express card for pre-sale tickets). I know I am not the only one to say this, but the lyrics in Taylor Swift's songs seem to always apply to me. She has written a song for every type of emotion a girl could possibly experience. From love, to anger, to revenge, to hope. Taylor...I am ready to sing my little heart out! P.S. Your face is absolutely gorgeous.

2011-09-13T11:45:00.001-06:00

I am signed up and ready to go! Dirty Dash here we come!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk5rtyB84fk&ob=av3e

Game Day

2011-09-01T09:07:00.003-06:00

Today is the day. The day that many of us Utah Fans have been waiting for. The day that everyone at work has been planning for the past YEAR. Today, the Utes play their first game in the Pac-12. You never really know how much work it takes to put on a production such as this...until you are actually involved in it. Here's to a fun day of football! Go UTES!

The most beautiful girl you will ever meet.

2011-08-26T10:12:00.004-06:00

I haven't blogged in an extremely long time...but today I felt that it was appropriate. I need to dedicate this post to my beautiful sister Marron Olivia. Today she is performing in front of Olympus High School for the first time....and she gets to do it TWICE. Once at the Hello Day assembly, and then tonight at their first football game. She has practiced so hard the entire summer and I know she will do fab!! I am so proud of my little sis. She is absolutely gorgeous and the coolest girl you will ever meet. Good luck today, Marr! You will rock it! I will be there front and center!

2011-08-08T11:08:00.002-06:00

Still tumblin'...

2011-07-15T09:52:00.002-06:00

I have been the WORST blogger lately, but check out my tumblr. I am much better at keeping that up to date! :)

Tumblrrrr....

2011-04-12T14:04:00.002-06:00

So... I love to blog stalk, but in particular, I LOVE to look at the pictures on blogs. A blog with pictures is much more exciting. I recently started a tumblr account because it's really simple....and all about the pictures. It's not much yet, but check it out if you are interested...laurgard.tumblr.com. Matt started an account also...mattwily.tumblr.com. We are together pretty much all the time, so they will probably be alike, but oh well! Enjoy!

Top It and such.

2011-04-06T08:58:00.007-06:00

Lately, Matt and I have watched a lot of documentary movies. A lot. For some reason there are not a lot of good movies out right now, so we sign in to the good ole' Netflix and find something fascinating to watch. Last night we went to Top it (which was so delicious) and then watched the documentary Man On Wire. It was great! And that man is truly insane. Recently we also watched:

(Sad...Gross...Interesting?!)

(Wonderful...but terrible...We love you Flipper!)

I love weekends.

2011-03-21T09:38:00.004-06:00

Dessert at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse

Weekends are the best. Even if I don't have any amazing plans, the weekends are very enjoyable. This weekend was full of delicious food (I am a sucker for good food, even if it means paying an arm and a leg), Marron went to her first high school dance, game night with friends, family, Matt's family, double dates, and sleeping in!

A little bit of this, little bit of that

2011-03-16T22:52:00.004-06:00

I feel the need to blog because it has been a few days, but I not quite sure what to write about. Life if going great right now. So uh, I guess here are some pikkas of what I have been up to lately!!

Curling lessons with our great friends Isaac and Meg. I ate it on the ice....hard core. It was wonderful!

Finn Finn FINN!! I think our family forgot what it's like having a puppy around. He is a lot of work and quite the trouble maker. But what's not to love about this cute pup?!

(His current favorite thing to do is jump in the shower or tub...when one of us is using it)

Jazz Game with Matty...in a suite. It was so much fun! Perfect weekday date night.

Meet Finn

2011-03-08T13:15:00.004-07:00

SURPRISE! Nope, I am not engaged like some of you have asked...WE GOT A PUPPY! And we named him Finn. He is the sweetest little guy. He is a lot more feisty than Boston ever was as a puppy, but we love him. If you are having a hard day or need something to cheer you up, drive on over to the Gardner house and Finn will be just the trick!

22!

2011-03-03T13:47:00.007-07:00

I have neglected this poor blog. Oh well. Last Tuesday was my birthday! I wish we could all have a birthday once a month...but not get any older. Wouldn't that be awesome?! It was such a fun day. After work I rushed home to open presents. Then I went to dinner with my fam. Grandpa Ted and Em, Todd, Asher and Sophie came along as well. We went to Macaroni Grill and ate WAY too much. Dad ordered two appetizers, I had 3 loafs of bread (I can't stop eating bread when there is balsamic vinegar and cheese in front of me), then we had the main course, and THEN chocolate cake for dessert. It was soooo yummy!

Whit and I at the party

Marron's Birthday was YESTERDAY! Sweet 16. I have actually always loved having my birthday so close to my little sister! We get to celebrate together, pick out Sunday dinner together, and make Whit jealous! JUST KIDDIN, WHIT! We threw a nice little surprise party for her on Saturday. Bowling and pizza at fat cats. It was wonderful!

Stay tuned this week....there is going to be a surprise!!

The Bieb

2011-02-16T10:26:00.007-07:00

Matt and I decided to go see a movie on Tuesday night because I told him I wanted to do something that required NO thinking! Anyways, we get to the theater excited to see the movie Gnomeo and Juliet, when Matt looks at me with huge wide eyes and says... "LOOK...JUSTIN BIEBER IS STILL IN THE THEATER." (He didn't mean to rhyme). We ran inside the Holladay theater, got some popcorn and sprite (the best combination)...and took our seats. We ended up being 2 of 4 people in the theater. Gotta love that Holladay theater.

The movie was in 3D. It was so amazing and brought pure joy to both of our faces. We even sang along to all of the songs! I know some of you are thinking that we are crazy....but seriously....this boy is AMAZING!! He owned his first drum set at age 2. He plays the piano, drums, and guitar. And his voice. Mmm. LOVE HIM!! Oh and the best part...JB and I share the same BIRTHDAY!! This movie was wonderful and I recommend it to anyone! Matt and I definitely have BIEBER FEVER!

The babies I love.

2011-02-08T13:25:00.005-07:00

The babies I love. This is Asher....

And this is Sophie Jayne...

These are my stinkin' cute cousins. I love them dearly and I really hope my babies are at least half as cute as these kiddos!

The parents I love.

2011-02-08T13:18:00.004-07:00

I love my parents so much. My mom is a rock. She is the person I want to become. She never says "no" to anyone, she is funny, positive, and a wonderful person. My dad is the most hard working person I know. He is very spiritual and he is always looking for some way to help someone in need. I love them very much. I am so grateful to be their oldest daughter! Again, how did I get so lucky??

The sisters I love.

2011-02-05T15:51:00.006-07:00

My sisters are the best. Hands down.

Marron....is going to be a model one day. I am sure of it. She has the most beautiful hair and a gorgeous face. She is energetic, outgoing, fun, and caring!

Whitney...is so kind and is always thinking of others. She is spiritual, loving, and goofy. She is such a great example to me.

I love both of them very much and I feel like the luckiest girl in the world to have such amazing best friends!

The Boy I Love

2011-02-04T18:31:00.005-07:00

The boy I love. This month is all about love, and I thought it would be very appropriate to do a series of posts of the things I love and adore. Let's start with the boy.

This is Matty...

We have been dating for almost 2 1/2 years!

I have so much fun with him and he makes me smile every day! I could go on and on, but I will leave you with this vid of Matty. He is an awesome musician. He plays the guitar and taught himself how to play the piano. Oh...and he can sing. But he has only sung for me TWICE! Sad huh?! Anyways...he may kill me when he sees this video, but thankfully he doesn't get on here much. It is hard to hear him sing in this...but the world needs to see his talent, and his cute face!

Oh and please notice how he attacks me when he finds out that I am filming. Another reason we hope he doesn't see this post! :)

Love Month

2011-02-02T08:13:00.002-07:00

I LOVE February. I don't know why. Maybe because it's not January, and it's only 28 days long, and my birthday is getting close. I don't really know. But here are a few things I love about this month so far (and it's only 2 days in, that's a good sign)....

Getting Flowers (thanks matty)

Swimming laps with my bestie and then running to the car in 7 degree weather with wet hair.

Playing with kiddos at the hospital. They make me smile!

Forcing Matty to watch the Bachelor with me. And I have no clue why?! I have never watched more than one episode in a row before. Weird.

Cheetah print nails

Happy New Year!

2011-01-05T16:34:00.005-07:00

2011! Seriously?! I can't believe it. I have a feeling that this year is going to be the best one yet! My goals are set and I am ready to go.

Up until 3 hours ago, I could totally see the "light at the end of the tunnel." This is my last semester at the University of Utah and I couldn't be more ecstatic. This so-called-"light" was darkened quickly when I read over each syllabus for my upcoming courses. I am taking 5... yep 5 classes. For some reason I pictured my last semester to be easy cheesy. But nope, I am kinda scared out of my mind! I am wishin' and hopin' that I can handle this school semester, and everything else that is thrown my way. Here is to another (my LAST) semester, and an exciting new year!! Happy New Year!!

2011-01-01T16:44:00.002-07:00

Sometimes I really question the statement, "things happen for a reason." Now, is one of those times. However, time heals all wounds. We LOVE you Boston, and you will be greatly missed!

2010-12-29T13:36:00.002-07:00

I am enjoying this break a little too much, and I have been quite the slacker on this here blog thing! I will post pictures of my wonderful Christmas break soon...but until then, enjoy this wonderful song! Michael...You are wonderful, when you get together with Akon...it is even better! :)

Love.

2010-12-07T10:27:00.003-07:00

LOVE Coldplay. LOVE this Song. LOVE Christmas.

Tis the Season to be BUSY

2010-12-05T12:00:00.002-07:00

As soon as December hits, my schedule automatically gets 100 times busier! I have no idea why that happens, but this weekend the craziness began. There isn't much to blog...but I went to the temple and that was amazing. Exactly what I needed. I got to spend some quality time with Matto before he leaves for Europe. And I got to see these wonderful girls (see below). We took Christmas card photos to send to all of our other friends on missions. Hilarious! It was a busy, yet very successful weekend!

Turkey Weekend!

2010-11-29T12:29:00.006-07:00

Me, Sophie Jayne, and Asher

Sadly....This was the only picture I took this weekend. Look at how cute they are though!! I am always taking pictures, I don't know what happened to me! Maybe the lack of pictures meant that I was having WAY too much fun. Let's go with that!

It was a fun weekend full of family and friends! It included: hot tubbing, delicious food, leftovers, Tangled (highly recommend this movie), Christmas decorations, U of U VICTORY!!, birthday parties (HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISAAC), snow, teaching Grandma how to play fruit ninja, Whitters, caramels, breakfast casserole, and cuddling around the fire!

Only 2 more weeks of school and a few finals! Bring it on!

HP7

2010-11-19T10:53:00.004-07:00

Harry Potter 7 was great. We got to see it at a decent hour of the day. I think this one may have been my favorite (but then again, there are 7...so I'm not really sure). Harry is short, Ron looked ripped, and well, Hermione aka Emma Watson, I love her. She is fabulous. And a model for Burberry! Also fabulous. I think Matt has a little bit of a BIG crush on her. I'm ok with it, because she is gorgeous!

Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky...and almost to Michigan

2010-11-16T17:03:00.008-07:00

This was quite the trip...and quite a bit of driving. But we had sooo much fun in the Midwest, and I would love to go back again.

Thursday: Flew into Cincinnati. Drove to our hotel. Ate at Buffalo Wild Wings. This was one of Matt's favorite places to eat while on his mission. It was pretty delicious!

Friday: Woke up and met with a family that Scott baptized almost 30 years ago! This older couple was so amazing and my testimony was strengthened listening to them talk about their experiences after joining the church. Then, ate at Skyline Chili. (They are all over in Ohio). Drove a few more hours to Winchester, Indiana. This was an area where Matt served, and he LOVED IT. They have a pie factory, and the pie was so yummy. From Winchester, we drove a little bit further to Indianapolis. This city was so much fun!! And their mall was so great! I could live there for sure!

Mrs. Wick's Pie Factory.

In front of the Soldiers and Sailors Monument in Indianapolis

Saturday: Drove to South Bend, Indiana for an embarrassing game against Notre Dame. The game was a bummer, but the campus was gorgeous, we saw touch-down Jesus, and we bought a souvenir in the craziest/busiest bookstore I have ever seen! After the game, we drove to Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Touch Down Jesus!

Kinda wish I was wearing this shirt at the end of the game

Sunday: Woke up, checked out of the hotel, and went to church a few minutes away from out hotel. Flew to Cinncinati, then flew home!

I loved going to new places and seeing how different things are out there. We went to 3 different (almost 4) states in 4 days. It was quite the adventure, and I was a little freaked out, not having the comfort of ANY mountains, but thanks to the Wilmarth's for letting me tag along!

Lately...

2010-11-08T13:01:00.003-07:00

The weekend was wonderful and relaxing, except for the U game. That was no fun to watch. And I felt so bad for the poor guys. However, I am still proud to be a Ute and I can't wait to go to Indiana this week for the Notre Dame game! Go UTES!

Marron and I at the game

I can't believe I have never blogged about DAVANSAS. This little restaurant is located on foothill blvd, right by the freeway. Matt and I go there at least 4 times a month. At one time we were there every week. What do we order you may ask? 2 Chicken Tacos and an order of cheese fries. I am not one for mixing food combinations, but this combination is very delicious. Matt said that if we get married, we will need to create a budget with a special savings account just for our weekly DAVANSAS. And you may wonder why I just wrote about DAVANSAS....because I am totally craving it right now! :)

School, tests, papers, work, then INDIANA! I will post pictures when we get home! Have a great week!

Halloween

2010-11-01T10:17:00.002-06:00

Homemade Rootbeer. Party with Friends. Sugar Overload. Terrifying Not-So-Good Movie. And...These costumes. That sums up our Halloween this year!

Fun Fall Festivities

2010-10-18T12:54:00.005-06:00

To end fall break with a bang, Matt and I decided to go all out on Saturday. We drove up to Park City and did the alpine coaster. The drive there was so gorgeous. It was hilarious watching Matt hang out the car window (on the freeway) trying to take pictures of the fall colors. The coaster was SO funny, we laughed the whole way down. At times we even felt that our lives were in danger. It was great! After the coaster we went to Kneaders for lunch. It was delicious.

Matto and I before Thriller

That night we went with my fam to see Thriller at Kingsbury hall. It was so much fun. However, I am such a baby. If you didn't know already, I have a SERIOUS phobia of chainsaws. I was so scared during that dance, but I survived. After Thriller, we went to dinner at Hire's and talked about our favorite Halloween movies the whole time. I love this time of year, BUT...I do not want it to snow anytime soon. I wish the weather would stay just like this until spring!!

Oh and marr is a model. Look at how gorgeous that face is!

Day 3 of Fall Break: Crafty Night

2010-10-14T08:39:00.004-06:00

Last night we finished our craft. We made cute little wreaths out of candy corns. It took a lot more time than we thought it would, many burns on the fingers, and a TON of candy corns... but they turned out really cute! And Matto was such a trooper!

Fall Break...Sorta

2010-10-13T08:10:00.009-06:00

Welp, I didn't really have an option to go anywhere for fall break, or even have much of a break for that matter. So, Matt and I put our heads together and brainstormed some ideas to make this week fun.

Day number 1 of fall break: Cut Matty's hair. It was a success, and there were tons of laughs. We first tried the "British" mo hawk and we didn't like that very much. So, we just buzzed it. A little shorter than planned, but he still looks very handsome!

The British Mohawk in all its glory!

Day number 2 of fall break: Cherry dipped ice cream cones. Matt had his first one last night! They were delicious.

Fall break, you are not that exciting...but Spring Break, I have a feeling that something will go down, and you will be awesome! :)

Due Anni...

2010-10-01T12:38:00.006-06:00

2 years ago I met Matthew Scott Wilmarth. Yep...Matt and I met each other 2 years ago at a friends house and we have been inseparable ever since. I sure love the guy, and I know our future together will only get better.

We decided to go BIG for our 2 year "dating celebration". MELTING POT BABY!! I love going out to eat, but this was going-out to the extreme. The food was delicious! But for some reason I hated the responsibility of cooking my own meat. I was terrified I might give myself food poisoning. I survived! The dessert was definitely the best part. I had such a fun night, and loved spending it with Matty!

Dessert, Main Course, and a very excited/very hungry Matt!

Welcome to the Circus!

2010-09-26T12:19:00.003-06:00

Yep, that's right. I went to the circus this weekend. It was my very first time. It was a lot of fun...and Matt and I could not stop laughing the whole night. The trapeze was great, the tight rope walkers were neat, the clowns were wonderful, the motorcyclists were insane, and the elephants were adorable. It ended up lasting 2 1/2 hours. It was a long show. And am I the only one that didn't know the circus would be a musical as well? They sang before each act. It was hilarious! Don't know if I will ever go again, but it sure made my weekend that much better!

I love Apple...

2010-09-21T10:43:00.006-06:00

Lately I have really wanted a polaroid camera. There is an adorable white one sold at target, but the film costs a lot of money, and only ten pictures can be take on one roll of film. Kind of a bummer. A big bummer. But...Apple has made me happy once again! They have an app on the iphone that is a polaroid camera. You can even shake your phone and the picture develops faster. I love it. Thank you apple for saving my wallet!

Utah State Fair

2010-09-19T10:26:00.003-06:00

I loved the state fair. REALLY LOVED IT! It was Matt and Marron's first time, and the last time I went was almost 5 years ago. I forgot how truly great it was. We saw a sea lion show, a pig race, huge animals, ate fair food, went on a life jeopardizing ride, saw a giant alligator, laughed, and had a wonderful time! I wish it was more than just once a year. Here are some pictures to prove how great it is!!

GO UTES!

2010-09-12T20:10:00.006-06:00

This weekend was way fun! I don't know what it is...but lately I have been dying for the weekends to come around. Maybe it's this whole school thing, but I love it when the weekends finally come (even if I don't have any big plans). Well, this weekend was great because I actually got to go and watch the U football game! I sat with Matt, Melissa, and Stuart in Matt's family seats. I had a lot of fun cheering the Utes to an easy victory!

Parking at the U is ridiculous on a regular day...add a football game into the mix... and it is horrific. ha ok. Maybe I am just bitter because I work at the Stadium and some days I can't even park there and this causes me to be late to class and sometimes work... but that is beside the point. Anyways...we decided to drive our scooters so we could park really close. It was a crazy idea at first, but HILARIOUS. Matt and I were on the pink wonder scooter and Stuart and Melissa were on the red one. The scooters never reached a speed faster than 35 mph, but we made it safely from Holladay all the way up to the U. Oh, and we got a perfect parking place!! Right next to the stadium!

Also this weekend was my good friend Courtney's farewell. She is going to be an awesome missionary! We all matched in our Sunday attire too!!

Here's to another school week! Blah!

Long (much needed) Weekend

2010-09-07T09:23:00.005-06:00

Labor Day weekend came at the perfect time. For some reason I was feeling super stressed. We just finished out first football game of the season at work, and school kinda freaked me out a little. But, after the long weekend I feel much better, and I am ready to conquer this busy semester.

My long weekend was pretty relaxed. I hung out with Matt and the fam, went to dinner, skyped Whit, made dessert, went to a family party with the Sansom fam, had a family party for Zach's birthday...and discovered fat booth.

My two personal favorites:

Marron. Wow. Love ya girl. And Ash...bless his heart.

Concert # 4= Johnny Mayer

2010-09-05T13:39:00.006-06:00

A few days ago I went to the John Mayer Concert. It was the last concert of the summer. Sad...but wow. John Mayer. He Is So Great! He is amazing at the guitar, and even though he makes really ugly faces when he sings, his voice is pretty good too. This year I went with Whitters, Marron, and Matty. Matty used to not like John Mayer, but after I made him hundreds of CD's and included at least one John Mayer song on each CD, Matt fell in love. Matt actually learned a bunch of his songs on the guitar. Attractive, why yes it is!!

Anyways, it was such a fun night and I loved spending time with my sisters! Until next time Johnny, we love you!!

Nants ingonyama bagithi baba...

2010-08-23T16:44:00.002-06:00

A week or so ago I went with Matt's family to see Lion King at the Capitol Theater! It was soo good and we loved it! I got this urge to go to New York and see more Broadway plays! I have never been...but I am dying to go!

Oh...and you should hear Matt sing the Circle of Life! Especially the first line of the song! You are guaranteed to laugh! :)

Best Friend

2010-08-12T08:22:00.003-06:00

I am not really a PDA person...like at all. But I had to write a little post about how great my best friend Matt is. Last night was so wonderful. Here is a quick recap.

8:00 pm Matty comes over and Lauren is in a poopey mood.

8:15 pm Lauren and Matty go on a drive. Lauren is still in a poopey mood but is beginning to smile more because of Matty's ridiculous dance moves in the car.

8:45 pm Lauren and Matty play scrabble SLAM and Lauren is laughing now because of Matt's word choice during the game.

9:35 pm Matty says to Lauren (while putting on her shoes), "Let's go see Charlie St. Cloud because you just finished the book....it starts at 9:40... that's in 5 minutes...HURRY!!"

9:36 pm Matty suggests taking the scoot scoot. Why not?!

9:37 pm Matty and Lauren almost die going 30 mph over the speed bumps. HILARIOUS!

9:42 pm Lauren sits down in the theater and Matty "goes to the bathroom."

9:45 pm Matty returns with Lauren's all time favorite snack. Popcorn and sprite!!

Cheesy post, I know. But I sure do love this boy!

Jackson

2010-08-11T16:46:00.007-06:00

Jackson Hole was so much fun...and I love my family so darn much! Here are a few pics from the trip!

I am already looking forward to the trip next year!

Non-stop FUN

2010-08-04T12:35:00.004-06:00

This summer has been non-stop fun! I am so grateful that I have had the opportunity to do so many fun things, with so many great people. Little update... has anyone been watching shark week? Well, yesterday there was a gruesome episode. A girl's bum was bit off by a shark...yes her bum. And yes, they showed her missing bum. Why am I still obsessed with shark week? I have no idea.

Matty and I went up to Park City to do the Alpine slide and coaster a few days ago. We were most excited for the coaster...but it was closed. Darn. We ate at Baja and then headed to the slide. It was so much fun....but warning, it can be deadly!

Yesterday, we took a Hatches Chocolate run. It did not disappoint. We of course got the ginormous frozen hot chocolate, and then decided to order two smaller chocolates. The both cost $1.50 each. A little outrageous...but oh my heck. It was heaven in my mouth. Let's just say Matty and I were in a bit of a sugar coma last night, but it was SO worth it.

Off to Jackson Hole tomorrow...I will post pics when I get back! Happy Almost Weekend!

Lately...

2010-08-01T13:11:00.009-06:00

Busy is the best word to describe the last few weeks. I feel like I have been going non-stop, but these last few weeks have made my summer so much fun! I went with the fam on a trip to San Diego and that was a BLAST! It was full of shopping, laying at the beach, and even SEA WORLD. That was my favorite part of the trip by far. Shamu literally brought tears to my eyes in the "Believe" show (highly recommend it). I love all of the memories that are made while spending time with my family. I love them all so much!

A week after San Diego, I went with Matty's fam to Lake Powell. That was also AWESOME! The weather was perfect, the water was perfect, and I am so glad I went. The trip was full of boating (obviously), great food, tube wars, and FUN! I can't wait to go again.

Random, but worth mentioning...shark week starts TODAY. I am terrified of sharks. TERRIFIED. It takes a lot of persuading from family or friends to get me in the ocean and stay longer than 10 minutes. But there is something about shark week that intrigues me. Maybe it is because I feel that the more I learn about these horrifying animals, the better I can escape if I ever encounter one. Or maybe it is because I can watch them in action from the comfort of my couch without stepping foot in the ocean. Whatever the reason may be, I love shark week, and I will be watching the Discovery Channel all week.

4 day Weekend!

2010-07-06T09:03:00.006-06:00

The fourth of July is my favorite holiday. Well, maybe not. I am a holiday lover and a party planner fanatic, so it is hard to choose just one. But this weekend was fantastic. We got to celebrate the birth of our country for 4 whole days!!

Some of my favorite highlights:

Gepetto's (for the first time)
Matty
Family
Omelettes
Parade
Swim
BBQ
Friends
Fireworks
Smores
Mr. Jaden Smith
Pulled Pork
Rodeo
Fireworks
FUN!

In other news, four of my very close friends will be gone soon. Sister Bouwhuis- Texas Houston East Mission, Sister Crapo- Independence Missouri, Sister Stewart- Oakland California, and Sister Fotheringham- soon to be announced. I LOVE YOU ALL, and will miss you like crazy!

Climbing

2010-06-20T20:09:00.003-06:00

This weekend I went climbing with Matt, Isaac, and Spence up Big Cottonwood canyon. It was a lot of fun! I was a little nervous to go climbing outside, but I am SO glad I went! Here are some pics from our adventure. I can't wait to go again!

To Infinity and Beyond...

2010-06-14T13:00:00.004-06:00

This last weekend we watched number one and two in preparation for NUMBER THREE... COMING OUT ON FRIDAY! It's going to be great!

Sophie Jayne

2010-06-10T18:53:00.007-06:00

The Hawkins side of the family has been waiting for this sweet little angel to arrive and she FINALLY CAME! Sophie Jayne was born on June 3rd and we couldn't be more excited! She is the cutest thing on this planet! I am so excited to watch her grow up! We love you Todd, Em, Ash, and Sophie!

Sweet Summer Time!

2010-05-31T21:07:00.006-06:00

Summer is here...well hopefully. I really don't want it to rain anymore. Cross your fingers. This weekend was jam packed of so many fun things. Here is a quick summary of my weekend!

At at Cancun.

Meg and I got scared to death.

Had lunch with my besties...

Ate at Salt City.

Shot off rockets with our fun friends....

Swam in the POOL!

Rode the scoot scoot.

And topped the week off by going to two bbq's.

Now, back to the books. Summer school starts tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Concert #3= POSTPONED

2010-05-25T12:58:00.005-06:00

Yep, concert number 3 has been postponed. This was the concert I was most excited for this summer. At work we have been preparing for this concert for months and now.... it's postponed ....no more planning....zip...nothing. I guess that's what we get for booking such an old man to play in our arena.

This is how the phone calls at work have been going lately. "The Tower at Rice Eccles, this is Lauren." "Hi...is U2 really cancelled." "Yes, unfortunately it is." "When are they coming back?" "We are not sure of the exact date, you are welcome to check U2.com for updates." "Can I get my money back for the tickets?" "We did not sell any tickets, so check with whoever you bought the tickets from." "This is ridiculous, how could this happen?" "I'm sorry for the inconvenience....click...uhhh....bye?"

I sure hope they reschedule.....FAST. I am kind of getting sick of these calls. Get better Bono! I kinda wanna see you in concert. Thanks!

Thanks for Being Born

2010-05-19T09:02:00.004-06:00

This is Matty. He turned 23 yesterday.

Happy Birthday!

I sure love ya!

xoxo

Concert #2= Paramore

2010-05-12T08:28:00.002-06:00

Marron equals Paramore's BIGGEST fan, so for her birthday I thought it was a great idea to buy her tickets to the concert. She has been counting down the days for this concert to arrive! I was excited too...but also a little nervous. We bought general admission tickets and if any of you know the size of my tiny sisters, you would be nervous too.

We got to the E center at exactly 5:30, the doors opened at 6. From there we made our way down to the floor and up against the metal bars. Marron was ecstatic that we were right up against the stage. However, we were also right next to the speaker. Feel free to make fun of me for acting like my grandma, but I was so worried my ear drums were going to explode and I wouldn't be able to hear my future grandchildren.

The bands FUN and Relient K opened the concert and Paramore was awesome. I am proud to say that I can still hear and I had a very fun night with my cute sisters!

One of My Favorite T.V. Shows

2010-05-08T13:31:00.005-06:00

My best friend left for Mexico yesterday. Am I jealous...OF COURSE! 10 days in Mexico... I WISH. 80+ degree weather...YES PLEASE! I hope he has the time of his life and makes so many great memories with his friends. Love you Matty.

In other news, I love GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS. If any of you out there have not seen this show, I highly recommend it. Gene Simmons is a wonderful guy. Don't believe me? He really is. His family is hilarious and so entertaining. Tune in tomorrow at 10:30 on A&E. You won't regret it...I promise!

Supercross

2010-05-02T17:56:00.004-06:00

I have been anxiously waiting for this weekend to come, and it finally came. I LOVE Supercross. Call me white trash...a little weirdo...but I LOVE Supercross. It has been a lot of fun preparing for Supercross at Rice-Eccles stadium. Mallorie (my cutie co-worker) and I have made millions of credentials, parking passes, and check-in lists. I love my job....and again, I LOVE supercross. Unfortunately the weather was a bummer, and we were freezing by the time we left, but it was still an enjoyable evening. I can't wait for next year...it is already on my calendar!

Sunday Entertainment

2010-04-19T09:53:00.000-06:00

Matt and I came across this...we both laughed...we both cried...ENJOY!

Concert # 1= MUSE

2010-04-07T18:28:00.003-06:00

I have tickets to quite a few concerts the next few months, and the first on the list was MUSE. The concert was on Monday. I bought tickets for Matt for Valentine's Day. He LOVES MUSE. I was a little hesitant about going because I don't really know a lot of their songs, but I'm so glad I went. It was really good and very entertaining! I may become an avid MUSE fan after that!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T12:48:00.004-06:00

Happy Easter! I love this holiday...and I LOVE conference! I have been hit pretty hard from some of the talks that have been given. Conference is a great time for us to recharge our spiritual batteries! I am so grateful for this time of year! This weekend I also got to spend some good quality sister time with Marron and Whitney! Whit is home for the weekend and we have been having a lot of fun together. Dying eggs, The Last Song, Cafe Rio, Princess and the Frog...and lots of laughing. I love both of them very much!

Summer Fever!

2010-03-25T09:12:00.004-06:00

It has been such a long time since I have gotten on this thing. Instead of boring you with the events that have happened in my life the past few weeks...I will just tell you how EXCITED I am for summer. Spring is wonderful and nice, the flowers are great, and it's starting to get warm....BUT, sometimes you still have to wear a coat, some days it only warms up to 60 degrees, sometimes it snows, and some days I can't breathe because of the pollen. Right now, I want warm (hot) weather, my pool, shorts, and scooter rides. Oh and I want that swimming suit from anthropologie!

21!!

2010-03-03T17:14:00.004-07:00

This weekend I celebrated my birthday with my close friends and family. I had a blast, and I was completely spoiled. I have so many friends and family members that care about me, and each of them made this weekend wonderful! Thank you everyone!! (if anyone reads this, ha)

On Saturday, my friends took me to lunch and then we went on a drive up the canyon. It was so beautiful. Driving up the canyon got me very excited for summer...and bon fires!! Please come quickly Mr. Sun.

On Sunday, my grandma made a delicious dinner for Marron and I. Marron's birthday is this Saturday! It was very yummy and I had lots of fun!

On Monday, when I got home from school and work, I found 21 balloons scattered all over the lawn. My cute neighbor put them up! For dinner we went to Mikado, it was also very yummy. Marron stepped WAY out of her box and tried many new things. She loves her bean and cheese burritos...more than anything...but she tried seaweed salad (not recommended), dried seaweed, tofu, all kinds of crazy stuff. It was such a fun night!!

It was such a wonderful 21st Birthday. Thanks everyone!! Next vacation...VEGAS!!!!!

Valentines Weekend!

2010-02-15T18:27:00.004-07:00

Valentine's day is just great...and happy...and I love it. My valentine's weekend had a little bit of this....

Delicious Porcupine Grill...

and some of this...bread pudding (one of my all time favorite desserts)...

a little bit of this...hmm not my favorite movie ever...

and on Sunday... there was A LOT of this! The whole thing actually.

It was a great weekend with this fun boy!

...

2010-02-03T10:50:00.004-07:00

Ummmm.... the J Crew catalog came in the mail yesterday and I am in LOVE with their new stuff.

I love this long cardigan...

And... this cardigan (i'm a sucker for cadigans)

And... I LOVE this whole entire outfit!

Sundance!!

2010-01-26T09:39:00.005-07:00

On Saturday night I went to Sundance with some of my good friends. We went last year and had a blast, so we decided to keep the tradition going. We didn't have tickets to any of the shows, and we didn't go clubbing with the famous stars... but we still had a lot of fun! The adventure began as we embarked on our journey up Parley's....in a blizzard. That was really smart of us. Luckily, we drove the pilot, and there were 6 of us to weigh that baby down. Cars were all over the place, including down the side of the mountain. It was stressful to be the driver....STRESSFUL!

We ate dinner at Main Street Pizza and Pasta. It was delicious...but expensive. Unfortunately, I didn't see any of the stars I was planning on seeing, but we had lots of fun...and I can't wait to go again next year!

2010-01-12T17:56:00.005-07:00

While I was in Italy, I failed to do a post about one of my biggest obsessions while living there. I loved the beautiful doors. Here are a just a few of my favorites!

Minori, Italy

Volterra, Italy

Cornelia (Cinque Terre)

Tis the Season...

2009-12-21T13:37:00.004-07:00

I have been home from Italy for about a month now. Things have been going well. However, Italy almost feels like a dream now. I can't believe I lived there for three months. It makes me sad to not see all of those girls everyday, and I wonder when I will get the chance to go back there again.

This last week has been full of Christmas festivities. On Friday I went with my family to the Roof. We had a wonderful time. That is one of my favorite traditions. I LOVE their french onion soup. I recommend that to anyone who wants to taste something AMAZING! After dinner, we walked around temple square, and like always, it was beautiful.

On Sunday, I went to the Wimarth Family Christmas Party. It was great! Matt's gramdpa made a delicious Italian homemade dinner.

I absolutely love this time of year and I am so excited for the next few days! Merry Christmas!!

Time flies when you are living in ITALY!!!!

2009-11-28T19:06:00.006-07:00

WOW!! Did I really just finish a study abroad program in Italy?? Three months ago I arrived in Italy and now I am on a plane home. I got homesick at times, but it was a great experience. One of the best decisions I have ever made. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to go. I would love to go back some day!

To conclude our trip we went to Venice and Rome after leaving Siena. One word to describe Venice.... AMAZING! It was probably my favorite city. I loved taking a water taxi to get to my hotel. I loved the fun shops. I loved the beautiful Murano Glass. I loved the crazy pigeons in St. Mark's Square. I loved the Gondolas. I loved EVERYTHING about it.

Thursday night we arrived in Rome. On Friday we had the whole day to explore Rome one last time, and we all flew out early Saturday morning. WOW WOW WOW!!! This has been awesome! I can't wait to share more of my experiences with everyone when I get home!

The Whole Group in front of the Trevi Fountain. LOVE YOU GIRLS!!!

Goodbye Siena!

2009-11-22T05:18:00.005-07:00

Today is my last day in Siena. It has been my home for the last 3 months, and it is going to be very sad to leave it behind. I have had a BLAST while I have been here. This has been an awesome experience. I know I have said this a lot…but THANKS AGAIN MOM AND DAD!! This has truly been amazing!

On Friday, we made Thanksgiving Dinner for all of the teachers at the Dante School to say thanks. And, because we are all very sad to be missing thanksgiving. The dinner was very good though, and I'm so glad it turned out well. It was a lot of work.

My Cooking Class

My Italian Class

Yesterday we took one last trip to Florence. I got to see many famous paintings, as well as Michelangelo and Galileo's tombs. And... went to the Academia to see... DAVID! That thing is huge! It was so amazing. We sat there for about 30 minutes just staring at it. It was a fun last trip to Florence.

Thanks for all of your support! I am now off to Venice and Rome for one more day….then I will be home on Saturday! I LOVE YOU ALL!!

The Taddei Family. Frederica, Fiorella, Giuseppe, and Pepo

Italian Culture Night

2009-11-18T02:16:00.004-07:00

Last night we had a night full of Italian culture. First, we had a lecture on Italian opera. The opera started in Italy around the year 1575. It has been very popular since then. We watched clips from the opera called La Traviata. If any of you know Italian or anything about opera, you would know that La Traviata basically means prostitute. Ha. It was a story very similar to Moulin Rouge. Girl falls in love with a poor guy, and she dies of tuberculosis in the end. Actually…that is the EXACT story of Moulin Rouge. It was a very interesting lecture, but something tells me I might fall asleep if I ever go to a real opera.

After the lecture on the opera, we went to an Olive Oil tasting. It was wonderful. We went to an Olive Oil museum a few weeks ago…but we were very disappointed when we didn’t taste any olive oil. So, our director pulled some strings and we got our olive oil samples! Not like I don’t get enough olive oil every day, but it was still fun.

Italians put olive oil on everything….EVERYTHING. The cute little man that gave the presentation told us that he puts olive oil on his vanilla gelato. Mmmmm…..?!? One of the things that I found very interesting was that yellow olive oil, is not always the best tasting. When you see yellow olive oil, this means it has oxidized completely and lost most of the chlorophyll. The better and richer tasting olive oil is green!

Only a few more days here in Siena…WOW!

Weekend in Siena

2009-11-15T08:18:00.004-07:00

Yesterday I went to a medieval market in Piazza del Campo. The weather was perfect and it was so much fun to walk around and see all of the booths filled with great stuff. There were many things to buy and taste. The tasting was the best part!

After the market we shopped around Siena for a few hours. It is fun to explore the city. I love Siena. I would love to come back here someday. This has been such a wonderful experience. This next week is my last week in Siena. I am sad to leave this city, but I am so excited to go to Venice and Rome one more time. Then…. home to see all of your beautiful faces!!

Ceramic Factory

2009-11-11T00:40:00.004-07:00

Last night we took a tour of a ceramic factory here in Siena. It was really neat. Most of the pottery sold here in Siena is made by one of these small factories. I learned all about the process of producing beautiful ceramics. It was a fun night...but during the whole presentation, all I could think about was how much the owner looked like Vincent Price in Edward Scissorhands. Do you see the resemblance??

Vincent....

Mr. Pottery Man...

Florence...Take Three

2009-11-07T11:04:00.005-07:00

I got to go to Florence...again!! Each time I go, I love it even more. Yesterday we saw the Uffizi Gallery/Museum. It was AMAZING! I saw paintings by Michelangelo, Raphael, Leonardo, Lippi, and Botticelli. One of the biggest highlights was seeing the Birth of Venus. It was beautiful. The colors were not as vibrant as you seen in history books, but I couldn't believe I was actually there... seeing it with my own eyes! I feel so blessed to be here...Thank you, THANK YOU MOM AND DAD!!

After we went to the museum, we had lunch at a little place called Eby's. It was a Mexican Restaurant. It was so good and so nice to eat something a little different. I love Italian food...but after eating that every day...for every meal, a burrito was a nice change.

Delicious!

The rest of the day we visited the Museo Di San Marco. This museum was also very beautiful. It holds the Annunciation painting by Fra Angelico. Once again, I couldn't believe I was actually there. I only have 3 more weeks, and things still feel surreal to me.

We shopped around at the market and found a really fun Christmas store near the Duomo. I bought a really pretty manger scene and when I asked the man to wrap the manger scene in bubble wrap, this is what he did instead.....

Merry Christamas haha!

It was a great trip. I am going to Florence one more time...and I can't wait!

Yummm...

2009-11-05T08:21:00.003-07:00

I can't believe that I have not yet blogged about gelato. Gelato has been my little obsession here in Italy, and I think it's time I say something about how great it is. I never thought I would become picky about my gelato, but I have. Dryers ice cream may not cut it when I get home. The gelato has to be creamy and soft, not icy...and for any Gelateria (gelato shop) to be a "good" Gelateria...they MUST have chocolate and mint. Those are my two favorite flavors. I've noticed that the tourists here in Siena flock the the Gelaterias that are well lit and colorful. That does not always mean they have the best tasting gelato though. If you are ever in Siena, give me a call, and I will let you know where to stop for a yummy treat! :)

Halloween Weekend!

2009-11-01T07:43:00.006-07:00

HAPPY LATE HALLOWEEN!! I LOVE Halloween. It is one of the best Holidays. I am very sad I was not home to celebrate with my family and friends...but I got to celebrate it in Italy, so there isn't any room for complaint. On Saturday we went to 3 cities outside of Siena. Monte Oliveto, Buonconvento, and Rapolano. Each of them were really fun. In Monte Oliveto we went to a Monastery. This was very interesting. We learned all about the process of becoming a monk. Back in the day it was pretty tough to become a monk. We ate lunch at a restaurant near the Monastery that was provided by the program. I have never eaten so much food. We had bruschetta, 2 different pastas, turkey, fries, salad...and a dessert full of rum. I was pretty drunk the rest of the afternoon ;)

Inside the Monastery...the shining :)

In Rapolano we went to a Olive Oil Museum. It was kind of a disappointment. I was expecting to taste and buy some Olive Oil...but there was none of that. Oh well. It was cool to see how olive oil is made. It is a long process...and most of the steps to make Olive Oil, are still the same as there were hundreds of years ago.

After our excursion to all of these cities, we headed back to Siena. We went to the church for a Halloween party. It was nice because there was no winding and grinding on the dance floor...but I would have loved to go to a dance party.... DRESSED IN MY KNOME COSTUME. We had a lot of fun though. We played musical chairs, watched a skit by the missionaries, ate food, shaved balloons, and had a costume contest. Unfortunately, we didn't win with our knome costumes. It was a fun Halloween!

Fashion Capitol of the World

2009-10-26T03:52:00.007-06:00

I just got back from Milan yesterday for fall break. It was such a fun city and it was so busy. We arrived on Friday afternoon and made our way to The Best Hotel. Well, I wouldn’t really call it the BEST hotel, but that’s what it was called. That afternoon we went to the Duomo. The Duomo was beautiful. Inside the Duomo is a relic that holds the fingernails and hair of the 12 apostles. Hmmm?! On top of the Duomo is a golden statue of the Virgin Mary, just like the angel Moroni. Oh….and if you ever travel to Milan, beware of creepers. I was given a bracelet by one of these guys and then he tried to make me pay. After he tied the bracelet on my wrist, and I still did not pay, he pulled the hood of my sweatshirt and took the extra bracelet back. He did not like me very much.

After our tour of the Duomo we walked around the Galleria. This is a large outdoor shopping center. I could not believe how many shops were in Milan. There is a store called La Rinascente. This was just like Nordstroms…but on steroids. There were 8 floors and the top floor had 3 or 4 cafes. This store was any shoppers dream.

We also went to a movie theater Friday night and saw the movie Fame. It was in Italian… but the music was in English. I was surprised at how well I could understand what was going on. I am in LOVE with that movie. I highly recommend it to all of you! It was fun to experience an Italian theater and compare it to movie theaters at home.

This pigeon had a nice snack out of the popcorn machine. yummy!

On Saturday we made our way to the Beverly Hills of Milan. The stores were AMAZING. They were all WAY too expensive for me, but it was so much fun to window shop.

I had a blast in Milan. Dad, this is another place we need to go. A family with all girls…in the fashion capitol of the world…it would be WONDERFUL!! Think about it Dad!!