Geoff + Katie

aaand we're back!

2012-01-18T16:38:00.000-08:00

Welcome to 2012!

January has treated us well.

So far this year we've had our first ultrasound:

meet Geoff jr.!

we find out the gender the middle of next month.

We met my dad in Portland for a Blazer game:

We got some snow:

I dont really care for the snow that much, but i do love how pretty it makes my drive to work :)

and while it was snowing in Corvallis, Geoff and I had a sunny weekend at the beach:

even though we are only 45 minutes from the coast, I can never figure out why the weather is always the opposite from Corvallis. But I love it!

Happy 2012 y'all!

is there a doctor in the house? and other matters...

2011-11-10T12:22:00.000-08:00

we wrapped up October with a sick awesome costume down at our local trunk or treat (thanks to the 'think tank' for the costume idea!)

Geoff and I dressed up as Operation with me as his Dr.

the trunk or treat lasted all of 15 minutes before we were cleaned out of our candy stash, we then spent some time at our favorite family, The Romrells house before going to late night eats at Applebees where we were 15 minutes late of winning the best costume for the night! bummer!

Other matters...

a lot of this has been happening at our house lately:

Geoffs been studying film like crazy. The big man got his first career start last weekend against Stanford. Its been so much fun getting to watch him play this year.

My dad and I enjoyed watching the game in the covered section. No rain on us made for an enjoyable day.

in other news, our life must be more stressful these days or something--between football, my 9 hour days, and my new title of 'acting store manager' (hopefully the 'acting' part will go away and just the 'store manager' part can remain. Regardless of what happens, I welcome the new challenges ahead).

anyway, all geoff and I (but mostly geoff) talk about is our bed. He loves that thing more than me.. At the end of the day he cant wait to get into the bed. Its truly is the best bed around.

(excuse her nakedness, she does have a bedskirt now)

my favorite part is what i find in that bed. Like him...

and her...

and sometimes, they even like to share.

October,

2011-10-23T19:56:00.000-07:00

how I love thee. Its clearly the best month. The weather gets gloomy, the trees change to orange, red, purple and yellow, and you get to wear all your favorite fall clothes. On top of all of that we have had a lot of fun this month. Today we spent our Sunday exactly how we like to--family dinner with the Folsoms. Its always the best start to our week (or the best way to end the week, however you like to see it :).

Heres how we've spent our October so far:

we've had some awesome visitors

We went to the pumpkin patch

and displayed our pumpkins proudly!

We celebrated a birthday--

happy 24th to me!

Spent nights eating out and playing pool

and best of all geoff got his big debut as center out on the field!

he served up some pancakes, rightfully so!

Heres to October and hopefully the rest of the month being just as fun!

Stranded.

2011-09-29T23:46:00.000-07:00

If your ever find yourself at the airport on an 8 hour delay here are some things that can happen:

1. The airlines will repeatedly lie to you. however, they will say it in an upbeat tone of voice so it sounds like your receiving good news....but really all hope is lost.

2. They will give you warm sodas and cold pizza.

3. After 4 hours people will start to break and yell their frustrations in the middle of the airport. And someone WILL tell you to chill out.

4. You might become BFF's with an old couple who will repeatedly tell you "better safe than sorry!"

5. Someone will fall asleep and snore so loudly that you and everyone else must listen to music to drown them out.

6. They will give you a $25 voucher which will TOTALLY make up for the wait and leave me feeling completely satisfied.

a recipe.

2011-09-21T22:04:00.000-07:00

Sour cream pear pie.

I got this recipe at Rassmusen Pumpkin Farm last weekend. Its seriously so good. Dont question it. Just make it. Okay?

- 1 unbaked 9" pie shell

- 1 C. sour cream

- 1 egg

- 3/4 C. sugar

- 1 tsp. vanilla

- 1/4 tsp. salt

- 2 Tbl. four

- 4 C. peeled, diced pears*

Strusel topping

- 1/4 C. flour

- 1/4 C. brown sugar

- 1/4 tsp cinnamon

- 1/4 C. butter, cut into small pieces

- 1/4 C. chopped pecans (optional)

* I used Red Bartlett pears

Blend sour cream, egg, sugar, vanilla, salt and four until smooth. Fold in pears. Pour into the pie shell and bake @ 375 degrees for 40 min. Remove, sprinkle with topping and bake for another 10 minutes. Cool and serve.

A day at the beach.

2011-09-21T21:04:00.000-07:00

Summer is officially starting to wind down, and with football season in full swing--the idea that school is starting soon is finally starting to sink in. I always get a little sad knowing that I don't get to go back to campus. But I'm thankful I'm done and remember to count my blessings.

Last Monday, Geoff had the day off and I was getting done with work early so we decided to head out to the coast. We missed the last of the sunny days at the beach but the weather was still absolutely perfect! Not hot, not cold. Slightly overcast and NO wind. We did a little shopping and shared some fish and chips and then settled into the sand for an hour or so. It was wonderful. Heckled a few seagulls and played a few card games. It's so nice to hear the sound of the ocean. We are so lucky to have it so close. Here are a few shots from our day trip.

*sorry about a blogless football season. I'll work on it but it's not my favorite thing to blog about. Maybe when we get our first win :) However my fiend Kelly did get this great shot at the Wisconsin game. Until next time, Go Beavs.

Blogging from an iPad...

2011-08-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

Makes for very slow blogging.

First off, the 'Geoff Garner' minor injury report:
-an ingrown toenail, fixed
-less than 24 hrs later 350lb dlineman, Castro breaks the rest of the remaining nail
-12 hrs later a dislocated left thumb
-after later inspection, torn ligiments are found. Currently wearing a soft cast.

Poor giblets. I feel so bad for the kid. Thankfully it's nothing worse.

Like Geoff did last month, I'm vacationing in The Dalles. It. Is. Awesome.

I spend everyday kickin' it poolside. I'm so tan. It's amazing.

And in other news, my stitches are out and I'm developing a scar that looks like a smiley face. It's pretty cool.

I'm going to learn how to can apple and cherry pie filling while im here so hopefully it all goes well and I can share my cornucopia of goods with everyone.

The first game of the season is in two weeks. Get ready Beaver Nation. It's gonna be fun.

fall camp. fall schmanp.

2011-08-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

it official, fall camp has reared its ugly head and has infiltrated our previously awesome life.

but its cool, geoff is doing awesome (and no midlife crisis' on his part so... bonus!)

I get really bored, but its fine.

I paint my nails a lot...its my new thing.

I also chopped my hair off so i spend time getting to know 'short hair katie' again.

shes pretty cool.

(and no i will not post a picture)

Friday me and a friend went to watch practice--I would have had a better picture but crowd control was being just a wee bit intense.

anyway, apart from being exhausted and sore every night geoff is doing very well and I cant wait to see him on the field this year.

*see below for another article on geoff from the Eugene Register Guard.

**dont let me forget to mention that most nights my time with geoff is cut in half because the mentally retarted girl next door waits up for him everynight so she can come out and talk to him. I think Ive gots me some competition.

Spotlight on: the big man pt. DEUX

2011-08-13T17:09:00.000-07:00

CORVALLIS — Geoff Garner’s football life suddenly became more complicated this week.

The 300-pound Oregon State sophomore made his first snap in an organized practice on Monday with his conversion to center. He’s also added the responsibility of making the blocking calls for the other linemen.

And instead of being a tackle worrying about a defensive end going around him, Garner has his primary problem right in front of him.

“It’s definitely a big change just because the defensive tackle, the second you snap the ball, is right into you,” Garner said. “You’ve got to fire right away.”

And meanwhile, hope that he made the correct blocking assignments for the entire offensive line.

“The biggest thing is you’ve got to be reliable,” Garner said. “Everyone is relying on you to make the correct call. ... There’s a lot on your plate.

“There are a lot of things to do right on every play.”The shuffling of OSU linemen, which began in the spring when four of the five starters were at new positions, has continued in this first week of fall practices for the Beavers with the backups.

Garner was the most notable move, from tackle to center. That was prompted partly by a foot injury in the spring game suffered by reserve Roman Sapolu, which caused concern about his readiness for preseason workouts.

But Garner also gives the Beavers more size at the center position and has the intelligence to master the position, said Mike Cavanaugh, the OSU offensive line coach.

“We thought moving him to center would be a good fit,” Cavanaugh said. “Sometimes you’ve got to swing ’em around” to find the right combination of linemen.

That was certainly the thinking behind the changes with the No. 1 unit, where senior Mike Remmers moved to left tackle after 32 starts as right tackle, which will be taken either by former starting left tackle Michael Philipp or Colin Kelly.

There’s also competition at right guard between incumbent Burke Ellis and fellow senior Michael Lamb.

The starting center is now Grant Johnson, moved there after 25 starts at left guard. That meant previous center candidate Josh Andrews could move to left guard, where the Beavers feel his aggressive attitude can be turned loose without the added duties associated with playing center.

“I can’t wait to see what he’s going to do,” Cavanaugh said. “He’s got that (butt) kicker mentality. He loves to play, he’s physical. ... Hopefully he’ll be that emotional leader.”

The Beavers are certainly looking to put a charge into their offensive line.

Remmers called it “redemption” after a disappointing 2010 season, and Cavanaugh suggested in his usual strong terms that all of his linemen “better have a big chip on their shoulder” to prove their worth.

“We had a little attitude adjustment,” Remmers said. “We’re just really working hard and trying to finish our blocks ... block through (opponents), not to.”

Again, Cavanaugh put the same sentiment into stronger terms.

“We’ve got to come off the ball and put our eyes right through guys’ chin guards and we’ve got to frigging unload on people,” the coach said.

To do so, the Beavers are bigger and stronger across the front. There was a renewed emphasis on work in the weight room, and the success there was helped along because all of the starting linemen had an offseason that was free of rehabilitation from previous injuries, as it was for Philipp and Johnson last year.

There are still some concerns. Garner needs to master his new assignment, to assure the Beavers have a capable backup at the important center position.

There isn’t much depth at tackle, prompting the move of guard Grant Enger to the outside so the Beavers can go two-deep at the position without Garner moving back outside.

“I’m optimistic about this offensive line, because they’re all improved players,” OSU coach Mike Riley said of his linemen. “They’ve all grown, so through all this we’ll have a better line and better depth.”

source

spotlight on: the big man

2011-08-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

GARNER ADDS DEPTH RILEY'S BEEN TALKING ABOUT

By CHAD LUTHER

Beaverfootball.com Columnist
Posted Aug 5, 2011

|More

FALL CAMP is barely a sneeze away, and so Sunday night will feel a little like the night before Christmas. And not just because the bad taste from a losing season is one virtually everyone in black and orange is ready to get out of their mouths, but also because this season brings something new to the table.

The unknown.

There's a brightly wrapped 2011 football season under the tree - the only question is, what's in the box? It could be just what you always wanted, it could be empty, or it could be a lump of coal.

More than any season in recent history, the 2011 Beavers are an enigma. There are boatloads of potential along with an embarrassment of riches at the skill positions - totally unlike what Beaver Nation is accustomed to embracing. That's the glass half full.

On the glass-half-empty side, the lines on both sides of the ball are question marks unlike any your humble scribe can remember.

Reach back through the cobwebs of your mind and try to remember a single season where not one member of either line is regarded as a "star" (apologies to Mike Remmers, who honestly is quite underrated). There is no Stephen Paea, Jeremy Perry, Andy Levitre, Kyle DeVan, Victor Butler, Bill Swancutt, Dwan Edwards.... no, not a one in this group. Not one big nasty guy on either side of the ball that you absolutely know is keeping an opposing OL or DL coach up at night wondering how the heck to handle him.

Now that we're through the doom-and-gloom portion, there exists loads of potential in this particular Beaver squad. With a few lucky bounces, this is a 9-win team. Of course the biggest bounce has a name -- James Rodgers.

J-Rod is the type of put-you-over-the-top-player who can get you a couple of wins all by himself. He really is the complete weapon -- rushing, receiving, returning kicks, returning punts. There's a sense that if Mike Riley was willing to let him, he'd show that he's a solid defensive back as well.

With all due respect to Quizz, and the great Sammie Stroughter, and even Steven Jackson, James Rodgers is the most dangerous player in the modern era of Beaver Football. A healthy James Rodgers changes everything.

MEANWHILE UP FRONT, Geoff Garner is poised to become the new Andy Levitre edition Swiss Army Knife, and he's a player that OSU fans should keep an eye on. This is a guy who is physically mature, took a 2 year LDS mission, played in four games as a true freshman, redshirted in 2010, and has been moved from tackle to backup center to fill the hole left by the injury to Roman Sapolu.

Garner is an athletic guy -- he's 6-5 and 308 pounds but in a previous iteration, he caught 45 passes for 987 yards and 7 TD's as a prep standout. And now the 23 year-old sophomore is showing off his versatility by moving over to back up at center. When Riley says that the Beavers have much better depth on the O-Line than last year, as he's done repeatedly these past several weeks, I think he's looking right at Geoff Garner. He can play OT, C, and even some TE if necessary. Remember Stanford's Heavy Set with Toby Gerhart and 3 OT's?

While we're on the subject of the o-line, something to note -- many posters on the BF.C message boards have mused about Michael Philipp moving inside to guard. It was considered last year by the staff, but Riley said he "took a deep breath" and decided against it. Now Philipp is locked in a battle for the starting RT job with Colin Kelly, and the discussion renews.

But the reality is, Oregon State simply doesn't have the ability to move Philipp to guard. With Garner moved to center, OSU has 3 tackles to work with -- Kelly, Remmers, and Philipp. Philipp is the backup at both tackle spots.

FINALLY. THERE'S A sense the MLB dilemma has been solved -- and before a single fall camp practice. Fans watching all year wondered why Feti Unga sat third in the rotation, when he appeared to many to be the most talented MIKE on the team -- this author wondered on multiple occasions on the BF.C boards about whether Ruben Robinson belonged at OLB instead. So what happened?

Defensive coordinator Mark Banker took over linebackers.

Robinson immediately moves to outside linebacker, and Unga leapfrogs to starter at MIKE. Sources close to the OSU program in background conversations have said that former LB coach Greg Newhouse's selection of most of his starting linebackers, and in particular the MLB rotation, as well as the high minutes for a still-recovering Keith Pankey (while Cameron Collins was limited to one start in 2010), were hotly contested debates within the staff.

No one has ever questioned Newhouse's ability to develop players. But the opinion from this chair is that his tendency for favoritism over "his" guys rather than the most effective player, coupled with a seemingly poor effort in the recruiting department, apparently forced Riley's hand.

source

today, part trois.

2011-08-02T23:21:00.000-07:00

and more appropriately subtitled, 'beauty and the beast'

Today I got a flower delivery at work from my dad (I <3 Larry) and geoff.

'the beauty'

I also got to take off my tampon-looking gauze bandage only to reveal what I like to call, my frakenstein hand.

'the beast'

gross! sorry its all swollen and bruised and nasty looking.

but its cool, because to even things out i burnt my other hand on the oven today.

because i really wanted to have that whole trifecta injury working for me.

stitched hand, burnt hand, bruised tailbone.

im a HOT mess.

anyway, no biggie.

as for Geoff?

He went to Costco with Big Lar and C-town.

which is usually my job.

see? totally replacing me.

today, part deux.

2011-08-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

Today, Geoff went to the pool.

and myself?

I went to the ER and got my first stitches ever.

(i sent geoff this picture and he texted me back with 'i cant believe you got a manicure without me'--his eyesight was just a 'little' off)

a shelf fell off a ladder while I was working and sliced my knuckle to the bone and did some minor damage to the rest of my hand and forearm on the way down.

it was awesome, but more importantly what do you guys think?

should i change my name to Kandra??

today.

2011-07-30T23:24:00.000-07:00

I went to work.

and Geoff?

he got his 1st disc golf hole-in-one

(as he would say 'we're doin' big things around here')

and he went to a concert with the fam over at Maryhill

he just livin' it up without me, and im pretty sure he's trying to replace me...and from the sound of it, succeeding.

just me and my ladies.

2011-07-29T22:40:00.000-07:00

tonight on my run past the community gardens I made some new friends.

With geoff being gone this whole week living it up at my parents house without me, I think I might just hang out with these little chickies every night.

an unnatural aversion.

2011-07-22T10:43:00.000-07:00

I knew I had this problem, however it didnt come as a realization to me until I said it out loud in a conversation with a coworker.

I cant buy black shoes.

Yeah. Totally weird right?

How hard can it be?

find a pair, try them on, buy them. Done.

Wrong-o.

the other night, Geoff and I went into Portland to meet my dad for dinner and check out the Nordstrom anniversary sale (go! go now! its so wonderful!)

I had decided 24 hours prior to look for and purchase black wedge booties.

My intentions were to have something to wear in the fall without having to make the commitment to buying a full pair of black boots because clearly that would be wasteful (what is wrong with me?)

This problem has gotten worse with time. I used to buy black shoes! For instance I have a pair of black boots that I recieved my sophomore year of high school. And I did buy two pairs of black heels my sophomore year of college, but anyway, I digress.

I decided to take inventory of the problem.
Shield your eyes people because its nude/congac city and im the mayor.

(p.s. my walls are NOT blue, they are grey...but i cant that expect much from my iPhone)

nude.

cognac.

boots.

see those ones on the left?

this is me trying to buy a black wedge bootie.
props for them being gray?

I just cant resist me some Frye boots, guys.

Making a cake.

2011-06-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

First, start with your 'rough sketch'

then, make lots of layers...

make a GIANT batch of chocolate buttercream...

seperate you candies for your cake pops...

Assemble, and decorate...

dip and design your robots...

make about a dozen more...

And lastly, assemble to make one very happy birthday boy!

'If I was a flower gowin' wild and free all I'd want you to be is my sweet honeybee'

2011-06-26T23:09:00.000-07:00

Geoff and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary on Catalina Island.

It was a really pretty island and we had a fun relaxing day.

Love ya Geoff! Its been a very fun 2 years.

spring has sprung in corvallis, or.

2011-06-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

Its finally here and i think its gonna stick (just after this giant rain cloud passes, right???)

at least we have our friends to play with indoors until things clear up...

Rob&Big, Lovers&Friends.

Magnolia Bakery Chocolate Buttercream

2011-05-24T21:58:00.000-07:00

eat your heart out ladies

because this is AMAZING.

It's the best frosting i've ever had and now I can have it anytime I want.

It tastes exactly the same.

1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened

2 tablespoons milk

9 ounces semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled to lukewarm

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 1/4 cups sifted powdered sugar

- Melt the chocolate, place in a double boiler (or microwave) over simmering water on low heat for 5-10 minutes; stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely smooth and no pieces remain; remove from heat and let cool 5-15 minutes or until lukewarm.

- To make the buttercream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter using an electric mixer on MEDIUM speed for about 3 minutes or until creamy.

- Add the milk carefully and beat until smooth.

- Add the melted chocolate and beat well for 2 minutes.

- Add the vanilla and beat for 3 minutes.

- Gradually add in the sugar and beat on LOW speed until creamy and of desired consistency.

Make it. Love it. Eat it with a spoon.

geoff takes a shot.

2011-05-23T22:56:00.000-07:00

of oyster that is.

Larry forced him into it. Gave him a personal challege and told him to man up and what not.

down it goes...

up it comes...

back in the safety zone...

and back up it comes.

The big man manages to keep it down.

Way to go Geebs! Your a seafood superstar!

'goeff'

2011-05-04T17:12:00.000-07:00

Today I remembered that Geoff told me they took their football pictures again this year,

and since last years picture was so memorable, I thought i'd give it a look.

last year:

(when I googled geoffs name this picture was linked to a website where some kid was comparing him to eric stonestreet from Modern Family---my husband does not look like eric stonetreet)

this year:

So handsome---minus the goofy smile. But then again he did spend all those years doing 'the turtle' that its just natural :)

and while im at it I found this gem while google-ing him as well

I have no idea whats going on.

over the hump.

2011-05-01T15:48:00.000-07:00

G: 3 spring games down, 2 to go.

K: yep.

G: That means that this time in 2013 i'll still have 8 months to go! (said in much despair....you mean the last 6 months of constant rain has got you down, G??!)

K: it will fly by.

G: we're over the hump.

so here we are folks, 3 years down.

and in other news I just realized that i've eaten strawberries everyday for the past two months. When the egyptians used to prepare for embalming they would consume honey and only honey for months. The more you really ponder that--its totally disgusting. Strawberry embalming??---ew.

confetti.

2011-04-30T20:52:00.000-07:00

I love these bowls!

My mom and I picked them up downtown Corvallis at a store called The Mod Pod.

They are 100% recycled and made by a company called Zak!

They make me want summer to be here, reeeeaaaallll bad.

I ment what I said and I said what I ment. Elephants remember 100%.

2011-04-27T10:00:00.000-07:00

I might have a small crush on Cee-lo Green. But how can you not when you listen to 'Wildflower'.

The spring game is this weekend...which means saying so long to geoffs "night tremors/episodes?"--things are gettin' a little weird around here.

8-ish weeks until California. Are you ready Garners? 'cuz Geoff can't wait.

This week is all about The OC reruns via netflix. Do you remember that show? It was amazing. I wasn't allowed to watch it in high school (not that that stopped me) and coincidentally my parents are hooked on the show and watch it nightly--you welcome dad!

Do all your long car rides involve discussing the relationships on '16 and pregnant'? Or is that just us?

And dont you hate when you dont fit in the car and your shoes are 6 sizes to big??

cherry fest.

2011-04-13T18:50:00.000-07:00

G and I planned a weekend in The Dalles

and it just so happened to take place during Cherry Festival!!

Dont get too excited, its actually pretty bland--there arent even cherries involved.

The parade was amazing--I think Geoff and I both agree that our favorites were the dancing horses and the Columbia Gorge belly dancers.

Check out these ladies!! Woot woot!

(I know what your thinking, your totally jealous we got to see them in person)

(Oh and be sure to enlarge the picture and check out Lady Versace's reverse tramp stamp down in the corner there)

The had a petting zoo and you'll never guess what they had...

GOATS!!

um, how freaking adorable!

And they also had this very rare beast...

(G sampling chocolate covered cherries)

Other than that we spent our time watching the Masters...Next year McIlroy, next year. I can feel it.

Lately.

2011-03-31T09:31:00.000-07:00

Since we've been back from enjoying the radiant Arizona weather....

we have been contunally growing fonder of the 'Hot Eats' side of the menu at DQ

Finally got around to potting my plants

(and yes, I did carry that owl pot from Hobby Lobby on the plane and the TSA guys look a little bewildered when they saw it on the xray screen)

And we spend our nights watching our copy of the first season of Fresh Prince

I forgot just how funny this show is.

running/creeper shots

2011-03-12T17:24:00.000-08:00

yesterday is was finally warm/sunny enough to exercise outside.

One of the best things about where we live in Corvallis is all the running/biking paths by our house.

You can start on one path and veer off onto a new one.

ANYWAY, I decided to try out a new path the other day and it was amazing.

see:

Oh wait, what?

people over the age of 15 still rollerblade even though were out of the 90's?

Shortly after I took these photos and was thinking how much I liked this new path, a gang of girl bikers whizzed past me with their coin slots hanging out.

im glad I didnt get a picture of that.

and while im at it:

check out the sweat patterns on this guy.

wingtips.

2011-03-09T19:07:00.000-08:00

One of my best finds in New York was my wingtip oxfords:

I l.o.v.e. them.

The thing that makes them so great is that its taken me three years to find them.

yes, I have wanted a pair for that long.

It all started many moons ago when I was a sophomore in college and had a 2 year subscription to Vogue.

They had a four page spread on Keri Russell--whom I love and sidenote: if you havent seen the movie Waitress I highly recommend it because you will love it.

anyway, she was wearing the most beautful ensembles, two if which were paired with oxfords, I immediately fell in love and scoured every goodwill I could get my hands on for 6 months...and then I gave up.

Who knew they were waiting for me 3,000 miles away.

MFEO.

goat, goat, I want a goat.

2011-03-06T20:41:00.000-08:00

I do.

I really do.

Geoff and I drove around Philomath, and on our drive we drove past Dell's Feed.

Their sign said 'baby chicks are here'

Me: Geoff, can I have a baby chick?

G: No.

Me: But its what I want.

G: No. No animals.

Me: I want a baby chick and a baby goat.

.....

If only I could have my baby goat then we could have feta cheese for all!

wedge salad.

2011-03-04T22:21:00.000-08:00

Do you watch Modern Family?

Does it parallel your life as much as it does mine?

Like eerily parallel, as if they have cameras in my house and are watching every move/joke/fight I have with Geoff?

its like totally freaking me out.

Like for real:

And as far as this goes, the whole reason they are in a fight is because Phil's friend suggested he try a 'wedge salad'. He falls in love with it and it sends claire over the top because she has been suggesting it for years--amongst many other things--and Phil (Geoff) will only try it when a friend (teammate) suggests it.

Oh and for the record, I dont throw broccoli at Geoff and he doesnt spary me with a fire extinguisher.

I love this show.

I know, I know, I know.

2011-02-27T16:14:00.000-08:00

I know this is going to blow up in my face for saying this (cough, cough arizona compadres)

But it this weather continues im going to die.

aint. no. lie.

When it full on snowed earlier this week I was sure Geoff was going to fly the coop and give up Oregon all together.

Spring break can't come soon enough.

(Thanks for the J. beibs stickers SG--Geoff loved them. I even snuck one on the back of his shirt on his way out to home teach today. Does that make me a bad wife??)

Empire state of mind.

2011-02-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

I came. I saw. It conquered.

New York.

Glamorous?

The trash on the streets, no.

The people however, yes.

Can I mention those pigeons are fearless. One of them almost took out my eye.

Times Square--where we stayed. This was taken at 2am when we got in.

The Hudson. It had literally frozen over. My moms show was right here on the pier.

Shake shack.

Heavenly.

I went there three times--twice just for the black&white shakes.

'Yum Yum' Thai food on restaurant row.

We went to two broadway shows. First we went to Spiderman and then to Phantom of the Opera.

I cant explain how cool spiderman was. I loved it. Everypart of the stage was made of moving parts and the characters would fly all over the audience.

30 Rock.

Magnolia Bakery.

I literally had the best cupcake of my life.

I gave my sister their cookbook for christmas this year because I know how much she loves to make ther vanilla cake recipe.

I totally regret giving it to her and not keeping it for myself.

are you dying?

We went to The American Girl Place.

They had everything for your dolls--like this headgear set.

Where was this when I was 15?

I had ditched my dolls by then but maybe if they had to go through braces too I wouldnt have.

My morning cab ride. My mom wouldnt let me go around NY by myself but had no problem sending my in a cab alone.

I was a lot of fun, but by the end all of us were ready to get back.

Happy Birthday, Husband.

2011-02-13T21:34:00.000-08:00

I love you, Geebs.

Your genuine, kind and loving.

I love how you treat others--

(except for your physical altercations during elders quorum basketball :)

and I like your deep rooted love for J. Beibs.

But I really love how perfectly this teeny tiny (i.e. average sized) jersey fits you.

I suprised G with a weekend at the coast, But I should have known we were in for trouble when I saw this on our door.

Thankfully we had a monogrammed cake to drown our sorrows in because our bed was literally the size of shoe box--complete with footboard that was "slightly" constricting of my 6'6" husband (I barely had room for my 5'9" body).

somewhere in the middle of the night I had the genius(?) idea of removing the mattress from the bed and putting it on the floor.

And although it did give us room to stretch--it did not provide a better nights sleep.

Thankgoodness I had that couples massage scheduled for the next day.

so dreamy...

Happy 23rd Birthday Geoffy!

January 2011 is:

2011-01-13T19:50:00.000-08:00

A cute new metallic purse. If it only fits my wallet, planner, keys and cell phone I cant possibly make a mess of it right?...right?

Uggs for all, warmer feet for all.

Luncheons with an old roomie :)

An upcoming trip to New York

Geoff puking in our neighbors bushes after cleaning up our nephews accident

A new niece...soon.

Birthday cake making (6 layers of chocolate on chocolate love)

and the dreaded beginning of winter football workouts :(

2010:

2011-01-09T14:18:00.000-08:00

another year down!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-29T22:11:00.000-08:00

...and a Happy New Year!

Love,

The Garners

Dearest Britney,

2010-12-19T20:20:00.000-08:00

he looks something like this:

little eyes. big beard. size 8 hat.

Hope that helps.

Holy Smokes Batman!

2010-12-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

Its my MIL's birthday today...

Your one H-E-double hockey sticks of a woman SG!

You make me laugh more than anyone I know!

Love and miss ya!

I have no intentions of seeing Tron...

2010-12-15T22:13:00.000-08:00

Glad I got that off my chest.

I have nothing for you. Im sorry. Nothing is going on here.

My house is cold. Really cold. The couch is almost unbearable to sit on. I will conserve, I will conserve.

I found a smokin' hot deal tonight. Paper Cloth + Denim designer jeans for my nephew Levi. $70 for kids jeans? No wonder they had so many at Ross....and for the sweet price of $9.99.

Im currently reading: 'All The Presidents Men'....My deep love for Nixon continues.

I'm currently missing: My husband. If you see him send him my way.

Im currently watching: National Lampoons Christmas Vacation.

This recipe will not make you skinny, but its incredibly delicious and with a working candy thermometer is totally easy.

Peace easy, yo.

gwen.

2010-11-24T18:12:00.000-08:00

My sister sent me an email yesterday.

It was so funny--I cant help but share.

My niece Gwen is 6 and perfect in every single way.

She will steal your heart in an instant.

My sister and her family are in The Dalles right now.

Her and Gwen had this conversation yesterday:

Sarah: It will be fun when my sister gets here.

Gwen: You have a sister?

S: Um, yeah. You know, Aunt Katie!

G: (total suprise) Sheeee's your sister?

S: Of course she is. Who did you think she was?

G: I thought she was your cousin.

S: No Gwen, shes my sister. Richard and Mike are my brothers.

G: (again total complete shock and suprise) You have brooothers?

S: Yes. Good grief, who did you think they were?

G: Mom, I cant even remember who those boys are you are talking about!

Shes too funny!

Hello!

2010-11-22T18:48:00.000-08:00

We're alive.

--I knew you were worried.

We havent been up to much around here.

We had a good halloween--we rocked togas like nobodys business.

We had a few awesome...and a few bad football games.

And we (I) have been ringing in the holiday season by listening to as much Christmas music as humanly possible and eating the occasional chocolate orange (l.o.v.e.).

I havent been blogging because I let my sister borrow my computer for a few weeks so she could surf the web to find a house to buy back East. (lame. I'll forever blame Jeff for relocating them to the east coast).

Aaaand I hate blogging from Geoff's computer-so i've given up blogging all together.

I'd share pictures but its more bothersome to upload them to Geoff's computer too.

(I made an exception and decided to break my bond of silence from the blogisphere tonight)

Can you believe its already Thanksgiving week? Everything is going by so quickly!

I ordered a sweet little holiday dress from Ann Taylor--that wait however is not going by so quick.

I just want my dress already.

This Thanksgiving Geoff and I are spending it with 100 other large, hungry men--some people refer to them as the football team.

No exceptions for practice even on Thanksgiving.

Thankfully they are still going to feed them a thanksgiving feast at the Football Center.

Not quite your typical thanksgiving--but its a warm meal!

I'm so thankful.

for Geoff. Our family. My job. My religion, and all the little and big things my Heavenly Father blesses me with.

Happy Thanksgiving y'all!

I'm in love, i'm in love, and I don't care who knows it!

2010-10-19T23:14:00.000-07:00

(Please dont judge the fact the i've already watched Elf 17 times this month...literally)

They came, they came and I am in love.

I've been impatiently waiting for them to arrive.

(Shoes.com, btw. Super great deals. I saved a ton)

dont mind how scary gross i look in this picture. I didnt get home till late at night and tried them on with jeans ASAP. I had to send a pic to my mom.

I also came home to a magical tube filled with magical gifts.

Three Sprinkes brand cupcake mixes from my brother.

One of the coolest gifts ever!

A very happy ending to a very blah day.

And while I'm here might I add that I have a very hardworking husband who spends so much time putting in extra work at school and at football.

Hes seen the love and support of his teachers, trainers and coaches and is extremly blessed.

He deserves everything good that comes of it.

welcome, fall.

2010-10-18T20:45:00.000-07:00

You can come chill with me on my doorstep anytime.

pumpkin patching.

2010-10-16T21:24:00.000-07:00

Its that time of year again!

Every year Geoff and I go to the pumpkin patch on the Monday before my birthday...for my birthday.

Its the perfect way to ring in my favorite season.

Searching, searching...looking for The Great Pumpkin.

g tried to make a pumpkin chair....successful?

not quite, but we appreciate his efforts.

We had a wonderful time and left with some very large, very awesome pumpkins!

23.

2010-10-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me!

Happy Birhtday to me!

Happy Birthday dear meeeee!

Happy Birthday to me!

(Geoff and my cake 10-13-2009)

Geoff's gift to me this morning? All the cold water a girl could want to take a shower in....

and an awesome pair of boots.

Happy October Y'all!

2010-10-08T09:20:00.000-07:00

I've said it before, but i'll say it again.

I love October.

Its the perfect month.

The leaves, the weather, the clothes, the baking, the smells.

I. cant. get. enough.

Not too much has been going on around these parts.
We had a huge/loud/fun Garner party over the weekend--so fun I didnt take any photos.
But heres a little bit of our October so far:

Geoff and Mt. Hood

pre-pumpkin patching. We'll do our annual visit to Davis Farms pumkin patch on Monday and I cant wait!

Thursday night warrented a visit from this little guy:

Monday Geoff took everyone on a tour of the football center.

Check out that stud in the center of this poster in the Players Lounge.

They played on Reeser...

And Jones ran the 40 faster than Quizz.

All of us had a pretty fun time at the game too.

Go beavs!

Always on my mind...

2010-09-19T18:20:00.000-07:00

These little babies have been on my mind all week. And ive since spent my time trying to figure out how to get all of them--in my dreams!

I know Ugg boots can be considered cliche, but the people who say that have never tried them on.

Everybody likes warm feet!

I used to have a pair that I wore all over the place, but they got ruined by the salt they thow all over to melt the snow. Aaaannnd, I love the soles on these ones so much better.

(Liesl, I think its time you get a pair of these now that your in Idaho--you'll appreciate them very much!)

I really want me some of these.

These will probably stay a dream. Forever.

But a girl can hope.

And technically, I already own these, just in a different color.

But obviously I need them in Orange, especially after yesterdays game.

Its a good thing my birthday is just around the corner, right?

; )

September.

2010-09-10T10:35:00.000-07:00

September has been good to me. On the 1st of the month I completed my last final. Ever. 8 days later my final grades were posted and submitted. And....I did it! I successfully had the lamest summer of my life, but I GRADUATED. From college. It's fantastic. As for right now I dont pity anyone in school, but come the end of this month when Geoff starts up again I know I'm going to be totally jealous. I really like school--not all of it--but most of it was pretty fun and engaging. But for now I feel relieved and can't wait to get settled into my new working woman lifestyle. Our insurance cards came in the mail yesterday and I felt just as accomplished, if not more, as when I got an A on my marketing plan. And that's a big deal because I poured my heart and soul into that thing.

Me, the day I graduated. Because you were just dying to see.

and this might have happened too.

We've managed to fit in some fun this month too.

Geoff and I went to The Dalles/Portland for a bit.

While in Portland I took Geoff to this incredible portland based company Moonstruck Chocolates.

We both agree that this is the best milkshake we have ever had.

The conquistador: chocolate, caramel and carmelized hazelnuts.

To. Die. For.

We couldnt help but snag these little guys too.

Geoffs was a chocolate orange owl and mine was a chocolate hazelnut frakenstein laced with pop rocks.

We went to the farmers market in The Dalles too.

Poor Geoff didnt fit in the car.

Larry shows off his new flowers.

I bought Sweet Cherry jam and I'm saving it just for you Shellene.

Its crazy delicious.

A couple days ago I paid my brother with a mediocre dinner in return for painting my bedroom.

The whole family came over and Levi asked Geoff if he wanted to armwrestle.

Funniest thing ever.

As for now Im spending the rest of my time gearing up for the first home game! Im so excitied for football to start in Corvallis and for all the fun we are going to have this year. I love that we get to spend so much time with family this time of year.

Happy September!

Jackie O.

2010-08-25T08:11:00.000-07:00

I can never get enough of Jackie.

Isnt she gorgeous?

I found this photo this morning and couldnt help but share.

In my fashion history classes we talked a ton about Jackie.

She was so influential...

and incredibly beautiful.

When I grow up I wanna look like her.

Made for each other.

2010-08-20T18:48:00.000-07:00

Am I the last person to know about this?

I probably am.

I not up to date on the world of crafting.

I went to Michaels today and discovered the Cricut Cake.

Oh. my. goodness.

If there is one thing I love, its cake decorating.

Think how awesome I could be with this.

One day me and this machine will be good friends. One day...

foot-ballin'

2010-08-08T23:34:00.000-07:00

Today is the day. The first day of camp. Hes had his physical. Weighed in. Fed a tasty meal of steak and lobster. Went to his meetings and hopefully will come home soon.

Sometimes I think, this is going to be really, really long. We've only knocked out one season in his football career. But then I stop and think "How cool is it that I get to experience all of this with him?"

Right from the beginning we've been in this together. Its going to be long, its been hard and its a huge blessing.

Im so glad to have his college years. wish us luck.

San Diego.

2010-08-02T11:11:00.000-07:00

I realize I said I was off for awhile. But Im sitting at the Oakland airport waiting for my flight and i've got some time to kill.

I just did an upload of all the photos from my phone and found some I felt like sharing.

I now present to you San Diego through the lens of my iPhone:

and there you have it.

Over and out.

2010-07-29T22:00:00.000-07:00

Im out.
I dont plan on resurfacing until September.
August is boring anyway.
If you must know what im doing until then (ahem...jones).
I spend my time baking dirt in my oven--no joke--and putting it in jars. (Dear crop soils class, I hate you.)
And studying macro econ graphs I dont understand. (Dear Instructor Yan, send help.)

Catch you on the flipside.

-kat.

Dances with fire.

2010-07-14T10:55:00.000-07:00

Over 4th of July weekend Geoff got his groove on,

and proved that man really can make fire.

Wild Cherry!

2010-07-11T08:54:00.000-07:00

Sometimes there comes a point in your life when its time to throw out the old and bring in the new.

Sometimes you might have a washer that only works on the hot water setting.

Sometimes you might have a dryer that takes three runs to actually dry your clothes.

Sometimes it might even leave rust stains on your clothes too.

And unfortuantly these sometimes are all the time.

G-bones and I went over to the Home Depot the other day (Does anybody else LOVE the HD as much as me?) and bought ourselves a new LG washer/dryer set in wild cherry!

please ignore the price on that blue one. Do you know thats how much it would cost to have a baby (with insurance) at the corvallis hospital? Just a little fun fact for ya.

Im. So. Excited.

And to start celebrating im going to save up my laundry--which should be easy since i've already got loads saved up already :)

I just wanna blog, yo.

2010-07-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

To say that i am busy is a total understatement. Of course, if you looked at the state of my house it would all make sense. Who's idea was is anyway to work full time and take 23 credits? Some idiot thats for sure. At current i'm a week late on starting my AIDS report thats due Tuesday, and right now im writing this instead of doing my macro econ homework. L.A.M.E. I have so many things to share too. Not anything really exciting but I mean, stuff none-the-less. Like how our summer is going to consist of us hanging out in bed all day just to stay in front of our new A/C window unit. Getting it resulted in a 30 mile drive to the nearest walmart--at midnight--and then staying up until 2 am trying to install it. Maybe you've never noticed but Geoff is kind of a sweaty, sweaty man. Speaking of late night purchases--maybe one day I will tell you about the time I ordered this--this being two night ago. Lets just say our jowls are gonna be super fine in 8 weeks time. Geoff and I had a fun 4th of July hanging out on the Columbia kayaking and lighting off illegal fireworks. In Oregon you arent allowed to light off fireworks that shoot off in the air--something about it being forrest fire season--whatever. Anyway, were still alive, a lotta sweaty from the humidity, but still kickin' regardless.

Our nephew Levi celebrated his third birthday on the 30th.

He got two presents--my stellar dump truck cake and in 6 months time a new little brother or sister.

is it just me?

2010-06-28T21:30:00.000-07:00

So tonight as I was avoiding laundry, homework and anything else important, to catch up on The Hills I noticed a striking similarity between this new girl Mckaela--who was apparently Brodie's girlfriend for 5 seconds--and my main girl LC.

uhhhh...hello! shes LC with brown hair.

Am I right? Im totally right.

What chu know bout me?

2010-06-26T12:05:00.000-07:00

Forget Los Suns....

Its Los Garners!!

because 13 is our lucky number, yo.

Lucky No. 13

2010-06-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

A year ago today geoff and I were sealed (married) in the temple.

This last year has been a whirlwind and when I take time to reflect back, I cant believe how quickly time has passed.

The only part of it that I can still see clearly in my mind was the day Geoff walked into my apartment and I knew that he was the man I was going to marry.

He is extremly kind, generous and loving--and genuinly cares for people.

Hes been the best decision I've ever made.

A few thoughts...

2010-06-10T21:45:00.000-07:00

1. I've been so busy trying to get organized and plan for California, i've completely forgotten to plan graduation too...but thats probably because i will not be truly graduated as of today. I still have some summer stuff to finish up.
2. My tips of my pinky's are always cold. Always. Not that, that information matters
3. Im currently writing this blog to avoid cleaning and packing.
4. I still need to find out if it's okay to iron my gown. My guess is no.
---thankfully I consider myself a textiles genius.
5. I drank more Diet Coke this week and last than I care to mention.
6. Geoff is totally adorable.
7. Tonight when I went to the gym (a place I hardly reconize as of late) I felt like I was back in my normal life where I didnt have a grown up job, and had less to worry and think about. I miss it a bit. Change is hard, but its good for us.
8. Colorado never asked me if they could join the Pac 10. Have they even seen the Pacific Coast?

Whew!

2010-06-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

Its been a very busy week here at the homestead. We spent memorial weekend in The Dalles who's weather report was supposed to be better than ours here in the Wilamette Valley--unfortunatley, it lied so my plans of laying by the pool were foiled. The weather here has been terrible and I think im starting to develop the SADS. I worked my first 30 hour week at my new job and I am loving it more than I thought I would. I basically spend my day being a personal shopper and I LOVE it. We just wrapped up dead week and are starting in on finals--which is always a blast. Thankfully we have a list to look forward to. Because this time next week i'll have practically graduated, we will be lounging on the beach in San Diego and Geoff and I will be celebrating our 1 year anniversary. And sometime in between all that Geoff may attempt and complete the "Lucky 7 Chicken Challenge" (more on that in a bit).

Our memorial weekend consisted of Backgammon, golfing and lots of food.

Can you guess who did this?

I give you a hint it starts with a G and ends with an EOFF.

Geoff with his mashed potato martini. YUM.

I feel like im always blogging about skamania, but its a lot of fun. Its also where we took some wedding shots.

On to more exciting things.

What is the "Lucky 7 Chicken Challenge"?

It my friends is this:

That is Geoff's teammate Alex attempting the 7 over at China Blue downtown.

All you have to do is eat that whole plate in an hour (like totally easy, right?.....not).

The pot starts at $100 and every month the challege isnt completed, the pot rolls over.

Which means that right now, if you eat all that in an hour, you win $300.

Alex gave up half way through--he decided to do it to see if he could get some extra bucks for his upcoming Vegas trip.

Which means that Geoff is DYING to take the challege.

Im not even going to tell you that this turned into an hour long discussion last night on how to prepare for eating competitions.

That doesnt mean that I support this. Geoff thinks its a win-win because even if he doesnt complete it, he will still have Chinese food for days. But I keep thinking that a) hes going to die trying and b) i'll be out 27 bucks if he doesnt make it.

We'll see how things go.

Legitimate.

2010-05-27T20:55:00.000-07:00

Today I became a woman. Hahaha. Anyway, I got offered a real legitimate I-got-my-degree-and-actually-got-to-use-it-and-not-work-at-a-bank J to the O to the B. JOB. (disclaimer: im not making fun of anyone, I just have a huge phobia of having to work at a bank, thats all). I am the new Assistant Manager of Maurices. And I start next week. Whoa. Im going to miss everything that I do now. Being in school has the best benefits. You get so much time off for every holiday! Im really going to miss that. A TON. But I guess I had to grow up some day. Its such a blessing to have everything ready to go and not have to spend anymore time worrying about finding a job or where my future--at current, is. Im continued to be amazed at the blessings and love I recieve and I have so much to be thankful for.

And just because, theres nothing like a blog without photos:

here is a current photo of the G-babes for ya.

Photoshop skillz gone wrong.

Jeff never had jet black hair.

And my dad, because hes just that cool

Lets cook something that is easier to purchase, shall we?

2010-05-18T12:00:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would share this link for Homemade Granola Bars by the barefoot contessa. They are so, so incredibly good. I know this because Geoff cant get enough. I've had her original recipe but i've also changed it up and added whatever I wanted, like orange flavored craisins, flax seeds and chocolate chips. Try it. I promise you'll never go back.

This woman is my hero.

Nike

2010-05-17T22:13:00.000-07:00

On Friday I went on a Study Tour to Nike to meet with Merchandisers and Product Developers--and do some networking. I got to take a tour of their campus and do some really, really fantastic shopping.

Since Nike is headquartered in Beaverton, they are really involved with our school and we are always having guest speakers in our classes and what not.

Did you know that Phil started this whole thing with a waffle iron?
Thats how he made the sole of his shoes.
I pretty sure you knew that, just about everyone does.
But just in case you didnt...

Nike's campus is huge. All seven extra large buildings surround a 4 acre man-made lake.

the lake and our full group

Each building is named after an athlete.

We started out in the Micahel Jordan building

all his air jordans he wore during his basketball games--signed.

they even had his baseball cleats with the dirt still on them.

this is lifesize and 3-dimensional cast of his standard air jordan pose.

We accidentally took a wrong turn into a small parking lot that held the spots for all their presidents and CEO's and thier athletes.

Every spot was filled with Mazarati's and Audi's.

They had spots for Carmelo Anthony, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, Derek Jeter etc.

Tim Tebow was there that day, but on our way over to see him he had already left.

They have soccer fields, golfing greens, basketball courts all of which have hoseted the worlds greatest athletes and teams.

The whole trip ended like this.

dont worry, its all socks. Im lying, its full of shoes and clothing.

They gave us all passes to go to the Nike employee store and I enjoyed every minute of those wholesale prices.

Year One, or "While Geoff Was Away Pt. Deux"...

2010-05-13T12:47:00.000-07:00

I was finally able to compile all of the stuff I had saved from Geoffs first year of football, and put it all in one big binder.

look how thick this thing is!

It has every game day book,

(Unfortunately Moevao on the cover has gotten himself into quite a bit of legal trouble--let it be a lesson to you all not to steal the OSU athletics golf cart while intoxicated.)

some plays,

Room keys, airline and gameday ticket stubs,

And the newspaper clippings.

Hes a star.

Rip City Rollers!

2010-05-12T21:31:00.000-07:00

For those of you who didnt know, Geoff is in a Bowling League with some teammates and friends.

Anyway, Tuesday was the end of the season and they came out champions!!

Which I used to think was impressive until I showed up last night and realized there were only 3 other teams and well, anyway...

I made bowling ball cookies for the team, and the rest of the bowling alley.

(Geoff used them to trade for sodas at the concessions)

The team, minus Mike

(Blake, Burke and G--and dont worry this half of the team stayed sober)

But dont worry, Mike made his appearance.

(Blake, Mike, Burke and Geoff)

Dont be scared by his awesome moves.

I married him for his stellar bowling skillz.

A late night grocery trip...

2010-05-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

has led me to believe that someone is reading my blog...

and that someone with a very large truck is over compensating for something small...

While Geoff is away...

2010-05-08T10:25:00.000-07:00

and enjoying the hot Arizona sun without me,

I finally got to watch the movie I've wanted to for a long, long time.

Its a girls choice movie, not a boys choice movie and therefore he would have never watched it with me.

(I realize i've been talking a lot about movies, im sorry. I really do other things with my time. I swear)

If your interested, and im sure your not--but i'll tell you anyway--there is a movie called

"The September Issue"

That woman in the photo above,

is Anna Wintour and shes responsible for everything in your closet.

The designers create but Anna tells them what to use and not to use.

If she doesnt like you, she wont put you in her magazine.

Do you remember "The Devil Wears Prada"?

The book/movie was written by a former assistant of Annas, and based on her experience working for her (the movie was so detailed, they replicated Anna real office to a T)

Its incredible to see how one woman orchestrates everything that we know to be fashion in the US.

(oh and please ignore the tag line for the movie, that does not reflect my opinion at all.)

my lifes dream

2010-05-04T08:12:00.000-07:00

i LOVE jello.

Its a fact.

Most people know that about me.

Last night I rented Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs

(FYI one of my favorite books growing up)

Can you believe this?

A jello PALACE?!

I want me some o' that.

I think this is what Heaven will look like.

always adding

2010-05-03T16:52:00.000-07:00

Im absolutely loving being able to have a little back porch to decorate and turn into a fun place for friends and family to hang out.

I was able to add more flowers and my dad and brother were kind enough to hang the lights over the weekend.

Spring Game, and other matters

2010-05-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Spring Game was yesterday and Geoff did great.

He had to take so many reps though and was so tired after the game.

My dad snapped this photo of Geoff.

I love this picture. Geoff is doing everything that he is supposed to.

(It may or may not already be framed and on our wall.)

His cheering section

"Um, who's blood is that on your jersey?"

Geoff did great during the game and after we had fun at our place cookin on the grill and Celebrating Richards 30th Birthday!

On Friday football had a family softball game for those who were in town for the Spring Game/Mom's weekend.

Before we went up to the family dinner after the softball game, Geoff and some of his other teammates took us down to their locker room.

Geoff in front of his locker

It was stinky in that helmet

All the tables and chairs are signed by everyone. From this year and years past.

This is such a cool photo they have on the wall going downstairs.

Its the inside of the helmet as the team runs on the field.

Geoff is so excited to have the Spring Game overwith.

No more football until August!

"Cut your hair Steve, cuz its getting NASH-ty!"

2010-04-30T22:40:00.000-07:00

Game 6. Blazers vs. Los Suns,

and we had tickets.

And he was the only suns fan to be found in our section

Being impartial, I clapped the entire game

Which happens when you are cheering for both teams.

(We took a million pictures but when your parents are both blind and have no idea how to work a phone camera, you end up with a lot of blurry photos--and crotch shots)

Geoff and I made it on the JUMBOTRON!!

The people behind us had some signs so we made it in, and then they promptly cut out to another group of people because Geoff started waving his Suns hat in the air.

Geoffs face of victory after Los Suns won.

Needless to say, Geoff had a good time.

Last night

2010-04-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

Geoff and I were watching Transformers 2 and I thought to myself

"I think Optimus Prime and I have the same inseam, we probably have the same problems when it comes to finding pants".

Its rough out there for our kind.

When I drive by...

2010-04-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

Tempts me everytime.

B-ball and Scarves.

2010-04-26T15:38:00.000-07:00

Geoff and I got our hoops on Saturday

I totally schooled him so dont even worry.

Im sure it had something to do with my killer form

Geoff suffered major defeat.

We also made a new friend named "lijah" (Elijah) who asked me if I had "tids" (kids)

He was 5 and was missing some major teeth.

Hence the speech impediment.

graffiti

2010-04-25T18:48:00.001-07:00

He be thuggin' all his life.

Late Night Update!

2010-04-22T22:49:00.000-07:00

Geoff and I have been doing really well. Lately, we've become stellar "Grill Masters". Ever since I taught Geoff how to ignite and care for the grill hes been off and running. It been a lot of fun to have Geoff involved in the cooking process. Since we've been spending so much time out there we (I) decided that it would do us some good to spruce up the back patio and work with all 3 feet that we have to make it look its best. Just look at what I did with the place!

Or maybe im totally lying.

But we did add some seating

And some plants

And someday, Geoff will let my buy that garden gnome and outdoor lighting. Someday.

As for Geoffs recent happenings, hes been doing great at practices. Hes really been able to nail down the things hes been learning and has been getting a lot of praise for it.

Hes a really hard worker and im so proud of what hes been able to accomplish.

Hes also recieved some news from the big man up top (Coach Riley) that its time to loose the "Mormon Gut"--as Coach Cav so affectionately calls it.

Can someone say Summer of '09 all over again? Lets hope the Milk of Magnesia is left out this summer.

Geoff says that come July we wont need fireworks because all the fireworks we need will be under his shirt.

Hes headed for ab city.

As for myself, I recently picked up this new outfit

And despite the sheer enthusiasm on my face, I never want to leave college.

Can I just stay here forever?

Maybe me and the guy on campus who looks like father time can just hang out here for the rest of our lives?

I'll have to check into that with him.

As for my recent cooking adventures I've been tackling Geoff's favs from Panama.

Ive mastered homemade horchata, im still working on perfecting the soapapillas and this weekend im thinking about trying out churros--along with the knockoff recipe I found for Costa Vidas Sweet pork burritos that Geoff LOVES.

But as for now, Im planning on enjoying the weekend.

Discovered this...

2010-04-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

at the movie store the other day.

Just trading one bad hairstyle, for the next.

Whats that I see?

2010-04-16T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, lets take a close look, shall we?

Those shapes are looking oddly familiar

Hey, Its Jones and SG!

Call it inspiration, call it divine intervention, but who knew finding Geoff's family photos last Sunday would lead to the PERFECT picture to put in that empty frame on my wall.

Watch out world...

2010-04-13T22:34:00.000-07:00

Because I am an official lady b-baller.

Church b-ball to be exact.

And when those passes come to me and bounce off my shoes you dont know where they're gonna go.

Needless to say, those middle school years rockin the baskets are really paying off.

Our newest addition!

2010-04-10T23:50:00.000-07:00

Meet our new grill

We spent our saturday at COSTCO getting hot dogs and pillows and somehow wound up at Home Depot fulfilling our lifelong dream of owning a grill together.

"Geoff, touch the grill like your doing something"

Check.

While we were at the Depot I was finally able to get some plants and dirt to fill the pot I bought awhile back.

Enjoying the fruits of our labors

Hope your making your dreams come true too.

P.S. Geoff thinks im crazy but im not. He wanted to buy the floor model so we (I) didnt have to assemble the grill and so I said "if im buying a floor model I want a discount" Then the lady said "we dont give discounts for floor models". However, it had a couple dings on the thing and when I pointed them out she said "Alright, well what do you think you deserve?" and I said "10% off"....And that my fair friends is the magic of haggling. Geoff can think im crazy but I just saved us a few bucks.

Everyday Champions.

2010-04-08T21:44:00.000-07:00

Last night we went to the Everyday Champions dinner. Geoff had never been before and since the dinner is optional we decided to try it our this year and see how it goes. After it was all over we both decided it was something we could live without. I got so sick after that dinner, my stomach hurt so bad (and im not even going to attribute that to the whole box of peeps I ate earlier that day and the ice cream we had afterward). Most of the people there were the lady athletes. I kid you not at least 85% of the people there were girls. Some of those girls were as big as Geoff. No joke. We ended up redeeming the evening with Rob and Ashley by going to DQ. I think we were all still pretty hungry after that dinner. I managed to snap a few pics from the evening. I have to do everything very stealth because Geoff gets really embarassed when I take pictures at these kinds of things. But its my job.

Geoff in the program and his BFF4LYFE Uncle Rob

Coach and my main squeeze G

(sorry its so fuzzy, i told you I had to be stealth)

Lovers...

and friends

The most enjoyable part of the evening.

Today was a good day because...

2010-04-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

I got to break out these

and put away these

These are everywhere

and campus is beautiful

After worked I ventured over here

to watch him practice

And tonight we are going to the Everyday Champions dinner to celebrate Geoff's academic achievements.

Tomorrow forcast says rain.

At least today was a good day.

I spy...

2010-04-06T19:25:00.000-07:00

with my little eye...

something LARGE, tall and Furry!

Can you?

Sometimes...

2010-03-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

when you go to the airport, your flight can get delyed. Sometimes, that can be an hour. Sometimes, they will move your gate at the last minute and you might think its the rushing of the bulls. And sometimes, they might cram you all into that plane and tell you there is another delay due to traffic jams on the tarmac. Which means sometimes you just barely make it to your connection on time to catch the next plane. And sometimes you might go to baggage claim and wait and watch everyone get their bags until your the only one left. Sometimes that means you might have to talk to Rick in the lost baggage office and he might take down your parents address in The Dalles and your own address in Corvallis. Sometimes Rick might tell you hes sorry your bag was lost and you might say, "I dont think you really are Rick". And then sometimes Anne might call you at 10:30 pm to tell you they found your bag and that it will get to you sometime in the night. And then sometimes you might get a call from Rafe at three in the morning telling you hes outside and needs you to sign for the luggage. And sometimes you might get dressed and go downstairs and open your door only to discover that Rafe isnt outside your door. Sometimes you might have to call rafe back and then he will tell you hes in The Dalles at your parents house and not at your house in Corvallis. And sometimes that might make Rafe get a little uncomfortable and apologetic but its not Rafes fault, its Ricks. And then sometimes Jim will call you in the morning and apologize for Ricks behavior. Which means sometimes you have to go your whole day without a hair dryer, make-up and the clothes you like. And sometimes before all that happened you might have thought your worst problem was carrying fake flowers from Hobby Lobby all around the airport and having people stare at you.

I love Corvallis...

2010-03-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

And I'll tell you why. Oregon is a pretty odd place in and of itself. Its a very ecclectic state. Lots of farmers, hipsters, yuppies, hippies, average joes, homeless, and all other sorts. Its also the birthplace of Niketown, USA (but thats not what im here to talk about). A couple of days ago we got our Corvallis Parks and Rec Activity Guide:

I was pretty stoked when I found out they were offering these classes:

Milk without the MOO! Make your own fresh and natural milk out of soybeans, brown rice and nuts. "Oh hey geoff, heres a fresh glass of brown rice milk. Enjoy!"

Beans and Grains Magic. I think Geoff is already skilled in that magical fruit known as beans.

After we dine on our beans and drink our brown rice milk, we can join a unicycle hockey league.

Just the summer activity we were looking for. Somethin' to keep us in shape during the off season.

FYI, there is a goth girl on campus who always rides a unicycle to class or if your looking for something a little more stable, you can find "tall bike guy" who has modified his bike by sautering two on top of each other. My personal favorite is "barefoot guy". He always wears overalls--cutoff overalls during the spring--and never wears shoes. Always barefoot no matter what the weather. We've got some weird people down here. But I love 'em.

(I'll try and snap some pictures of them for ya, Shellene--our very own resident creep-tographer).

Im just going to admit...

2010-03-15T13:29:00.000-07:00

I love Gene Simmons Family Jewels, not his family jewels per say but his TV show entitled "Gene Simmons Family Jewels". I've loved this show for the longest time. I hardly ever get to watch it, but every once in a while when I notice its on the tube, ill stop and watch it. Gene Simmons is so subtly funny and Shannon Tweed is great. Its not vulgar--although I havent seen all of it, so dont hold me too accountable. But I promise you'll laugh.

vintage.

2010-03-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

Vintage is becoming quite the "it" word these days. Vintage clothing and home decor can be really great stuff. They also use the word at red carpets when celebrities say they are wearing a vintage dress by a high end designer. I think its really great. And im thankful that the Dollar Tree by our house can also offer me all the sweet "vintage finds" I could want and such great prices.

(may contain seconds, thrift store quality or gently-used products)

Talk about a word taken out of context.

Football Banquet

2010-03-13T10:41:00.000-08:00

Last night we went to the football banquet. On our way out the door I grabbed my camera and Geoff said "Please dont take any pictures. I dont want you to bring your camera." I said well you at least have to let me take one on our way out. So I snapped this photo--and then threw my camera in my bag. A girl has to be able to take some photos!

But then again, we were in the back and the photos really arent that great.

Heres Coach Riley surrounded by all the sweet jerserys for the seniors.

Another bad photo but if you look close you can see Geoff and his beard walking up to the front to get his lettermans jacket for playing in some games this year.

Check it out!!

Lookin' fine.

After the carnage.

It was a fun night. They had some serious awards--like the "Team" award given to Lyle Moevao who spoke for a bit and made me want to cry right along with him. They also had some funny awards like "best kisser as voted by a sorority" and "most likely to eat at in-n-out after a workout". Lots of fun and lots of good food.

Swass attack! To the maxxx!

2010-03-07T18:06:00.000-08:00

Geoff came home from a basketball game covered in sweat (whats new?)

Then he sat on my couch.

Then I realized that he was sittin on my couch and I said "Hey, get off that couch and take a shower Swassy Pants." Then he said "My butts not even that sweaty!"

But then we saw this when he got up.

Swass is attacking my life.

I see it at home, I see it at the gym.

I see swass.

Opposites attract?

2010-03-01T17:57:00.000-08:00

Last night I took this photo. Geoff and I were sitting on the couch and he was trying on some new cleats. He put his legs up and I put mine up on his. Then I was looking at our feet, him in his cleats and me in my new (bright white) converse (say good bye to the ratty old ones I've had since high school). I looked at him and I said "I think it speaks to our personalities".

What it said I wasnt really sure. We're just so opposite in ways. Most obvious im not athletic. Most athletes I know marry other athletes, and then breed athletic babies. I'm active but not athletic. But I thought, thats okay. I like him and he likes me and somehow we work together. But then, I was in class today and my teacher said "The old addage that opposites attract isnt true and almost all marriages between those who are opposite end in divorce!" Well then. Thankfully I plan on proving those statistics wrong.

For health? Or just to support your habit?

2010-02-25T15:54:00.000-08:00

I dont have a stance on medical marijuana. I dont. But there is a guy who has been standing outside the library for the past couple days, trying to get people to register to vote so they can pass a medical marijuana dispensory law. Look, you look like a druggie, you are a druggie. I'm pretty sure you think this is going to get you closer to legalizing the weed but I'm tired of you calling me "babe" everytime I pass through the library doors (library = necessary evil). He told me it will help save grandma. Dear grandma Eleanor, if your dying (which your not) please dont smoke pot, for me? Please? Thanks grandma.

besides, I dont want my grandma looking like Amy Winehouse.

Did you know?

2010-02-24T22:40:00.000-08:00

I have a magic clothes dryer? I do. It pays US to dry clothes. I know it sounds crazy but it is absolutely true.

My parents bought a new washer and dryer, thus bestowing us with their old ones. So one day I went into the laundry room/bathroom (its weird I know. Its a small laundry room off the kitchen and there there is a toilet in there. It doesnt make sense, but its great if you dont want to go upstairs to take care of business.) to take care of business (tmi, I know, but there is no way of getting around that part if im going to tell the story). I noticed that there were 4 quarters under the corner of the dryer. I thought it was weird but didnt give it much thought. I just pocketed the change and went on with my day. But then I kept noticing that after I had used the dryer and was taking care of business there was always some amount of change, some quarters, dimes, nickles and just a week ago a nickle and a guitar pick. They would always be in the same spot as before, right under the corner of the dryer. So anyway, Geoff and I have found a new way to build up our savings!! Wahooo! Great savings plan, huh?

In other news, I have been meaning to do this but have gotten busy as it is week 8 in school and everyone seems to think this is a great time to have everything due. But my sister in law Liesl sent this award my way via her blog.

Gracias Liesl--Did you know Liesl has a very cute little boy with the biggest cheeks ever? Its adorable.

See I told you.

Its also Liesl's birthday today.

Happy Birthday Liesl!

(and happy birthday to my other sister in law Michelle, yesterday)

So, with this award I am supposed to say 7 interesting things about me.

1. I hate grocery shopping. I'm really bad at it.

2. I get magazines every month and never read them.

3. I recently (4 days strong) gave up sweets. Its killing me.

4. I love white chocolate

5. I watch Blades of Glory at night everytime Geoff travels for football. Its our favorite and it gives me a sense of security when i'm home alone at night.

6. Im getting pretty dang good at making chinese food

7. Im graduating with a bachelors degree this summer!

(that last one was more of an announcement more than an interesting fact)

I decided to stop persuing my education degree and finish school with my degree in merchandising management. Im really scared to enter the real world but im excited to be done with school (it was getting very tiresome). I spent a lot of time pondering this decision and I know it is the right one for me.

Now im supposed to nominate some people.

I nominate my friend Bri.

Bri, you need to update your blog more, so im giving you an excuse to do so.

(p.s. Bri--Laura is engaged!!)

hot for teacher

2010-02-21T16:53:00.000-08:00

DISNEY!

2010-02-20T21:14:00.000-08:00

A couple weeks ago I became privvy to a promotion by Disney called "Give a day, get a Disney day." All you have to do is volunteer at a participating group in your area and you get a free one day pass into Disneyland.

And it all kind of worked out perfect because we will be in California for the big Oceanside beach trip this summer, which also happens to fall on our anniversary.

Did you know I've never been to Disneyland???

I know, its absolutely horrible.

Anyway, I signed Geoff and I up and we did our volunteer work today. We volunteered at a place called Home Life. It houses and takes care of disabled adults. We signed up to help paint tenants rooms.

I was excited about it because I thought that I was going to be able to meet some of the people. Instead we ended up painting a womans office there, which was kind of weird.

It was a pretty good day though, which included minimal compaining from Geoff (did I tell you I dragged him into this? He said we should just buy tickets because they are only 30 bucks---they arent 30 bucks they are more like 70 bucks) and we only had to deal with 4 other girls who were volunteering from Eugene. (They were ANNOYING!)

But now we have some sweet free passes into Disney!

I'd say it was totally worth it.

Judge Geoff

2010-02-18T20:03:00.000-08:00

Whilst dining at the fine eatery known as "Subway" Geoff and I had this conversation:

Katie: "Do you wanna get a Redbox tonight?"

Geoff: "I dunno, that one at Safeway doesnt have a very good selection"

Katie: "True"

Geoff: "And besides, the finals for mens figure skating is on tonight."

Geoff seems to think he is a judge at the Olympics. He critiques everything, especially mens figure skating. Its his favorite event.

Of course critiquing the outfits is also especially interesting. Some of these guys have seriously out done themselves. I get it Johnny Weir, I get it.

You too champ.

I'm sure that outfit was hand picked to perfection.

but seriously?

Its worse than any of those feathered, glittlered body suits.

couponing.

2010-02-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

Everyone is talking about couponing--especially my sister. They have a million blogs to help you out too. I dont coupon beause I dont have the time to map out each store im going to go to for each deal. Its just not in the cards. However, I wandered over to one of those blogs the other day and found a deal I couldnt pass up.

Geoff uses deodrant like its going out of style. With having football everyday hes always showering and reapplying this stuff. Needless to say I am spending tons of money on his pits. There was a coupon posted for $2 off 2 sticks of Right Guard deodrant (geoff's fav) and Safeway was running a sweet deal on them at 10/$10. Which means each one was a buck and I got a dollar off each stick, which really means I got 4 things of deo for F.R.E.E.

And that my friends is the best kind of price.

Par-tay!!

2010-02-16T17:09:00.000-08:00

The day after Geoff's birthday I threw him a party (we would have done it on Thursday, the actual day of his birth, but nothing can get in the way of Geoff's elder quorum basketball games). I made some sweet treats for everyone

And Geoff blew out the candles "like a real man" with only one blow (hes always talking to me about his awesome lung capacity, whatever)

Thank goodness we moved, or else we never would have been able to fit a dozen friends in our little Shadow Hills apartment.

After our little party, we headed to The Dalles (@10pm) for a quick weekend trip (it was a very last minute decision).

My sister was in town and Geoff didnt have to teach sunday school on account of it being stake conference at church.

It was short but it was fun. On Saturday my mom, sister, her girls and Geoff and I went to Klindt's bookstore downtown and we all picked out a book. Sweet deal, thanks mom!

We hung out until late Sunday night and then headed home.

A quick but fun weekend.