I LOVE YOU!!!

This is baby sign languaue for "I love you." I love you too little Dallen. Thanks for coming to California to play! You were such a good boy for your Auntie Aubrey. I miss you already little buddy.

USC vs. Notre Dame

Saturday I was invited to the USC vs. Notre Dame rivalry match-up. While I already knew the game would be a total Irish upset, I couldn't passs up the opportunity to attend my first SC football game at the LA Coliseum. I know, I know! A lifelong southern California resident and this was my first SC game! This might sounds pathetic, but for the last few years, all the boyfriends I've had have been huge UCLA fans, so I was always a Bruin by default. Sorry excuse, I know. But not tonight!!! SC dominated the end zone and I loved it. 38-3. Go Trojans!

Boots Without The Fur

It's so fun having my two little sisters home for the Thanksgiving holiday. We three girls may have completely different styles, but at least we can agree on one thing. We LOVE boots!

Happy Turkey Day!

Thursday morning didn't start out so hot. I woke up at 5:00 am to make sure my roommate Katie got up on time to make it to her 6:30 flight to Utah. After finding her awake and getting ready, I went back to bed and set my alarm for 7:00 to head down to the Annual Dana Point Turkey Trot for the 5K race. But as luck would have it, I slept through the alarm. Crap! (It's ok though, my whole family ditched out on me, and my calves were sore anyway.)

Thankfully, I didn't sleep the entire day away because I got a phone call at 8:57 from my little sister Jacki who in a panic said "Can you please come over here right now! The dumb dog ate all of Mom's homemade rolls, Dad is at the store buying more rolls, Mark is in the bathroom throwing up, Kellie is sick in bed, Scott's asleep, and I need someone to watch my baby so I can get in the shower."

Can I just tell you...this is sooo typical of the Messick household on Thanksgiving. Someone ALWAYS gets sick. And something ALWAYS goes wrong. But amidst the craziness, we ALWAYS find things to be thankful for. Like Ralphs for remaining open Thanksgiving day for families whose dogs eat their dinner rolls, and our dog who now doesn't need any more food for the rest of the day, and for Pepto Bismol to calm the upset stomachs of guests who have the stomach flu.

Yes, there are many things to be thankful for indeed. We're off to San Clemente now for some turkey and gravy at Grandma and Grandpa's. Well, everyone but Mark. Sorry bro. We'll bring you the leftovers. Happy Thanksgiving to one and all!!!

80's Dancing in the Rain!!!

Exhibit A: pile of wet clothes. All that is left of a night of wet and wild mahem. Let me explain. Every Tuesday night is 80's dancing at Oceans in Laguna Beach, and once in a while my girls and I make it out to the dance floor. The night started out like any other. Great moves. Killer grooves. The usual. Until it was time to go.

The rain was coming down in sheets off the rooftop and out of nowhere, Katie, my crazy roommate dove under the waterfall of rain and began the inevitable. We all joined in. One after another, drenching ourselves beneath the falls. 80's Dancing in the rain! Wish you could've been there.

And fortunately, I DO have pictures but they're on someone else's camera. As soon as they come my way...and have been properly edited (Folks! This is not a wet t-shirt contest...although I'm pretty sure that if it was, Tristen would win hands down!). So in the meantime, you'll just have to use your imaginations.

So how about this Thanksgiving we all remember to give thanks for the good things in life. Like rain, dancing, and the 80's!

iTunes Podcast

My brother Scott finished his new Podcast album cover. He photographed and stylized it himself! As a proud big sister, I thought I should share...

He hopes to have his first Podcast mix up on iTunes by the end of the week. He's been working on it night and day and I'm sure it's gonna be one sweet mix. If you need a DJ, this kid's the ticket!

Pre-Thanksgiving

Photo Credit: The talented Dre

In preparation for one of my most favorite holidays (second only to the 4th of July), this past weekend I joined a bunch of friends and almost-family in Huntington for a fantastic display of grateful goodness. Thanks to Merzy, Dre, and all the others who did such a fabulous job with the turkey and fine fixings. And a special thank you to Mr. Cunningham for leading the group gratitude session. It's a wonderful thing to be surround by thankful hearts. Cheers to awesome friends, great food, and a fantastic pre-Thanksgiving Feast!

Who What Wear!

Life is more fun in tights! For the last month I've been sporting some pretty wild colored tights. Anything from bright yellow, to purple, to orange. While I may get some funny stares, I just don't care. They're fun, they're sassy, and they're so me!!!

For those of you looking for an excuse to sport this fabulous fashion trend (which I'm sure I'll regret ten years from now when I look back at pictures and scream "What the heck was I thinking!) here are a few great reasons:

1. Tights are fun, fabulous, and flirty!
2. It's a cheap way to spice up an old outfit.
3. They keep you warm when it's cold outside.
4. You don't have to shave your legs if you don't want to!!!

And something else fun I've been doing is layering them. Start with a darker, more opaque color on the bottom, like a pink or mauve, and layer it with a pair of fishnets. It tones down the brightness and creates a unique, more dramatic look. Or try a yellow opaque pair layered under sheer purple patterned tights. Sounds crazy, but the combo looks fantastic!

So go ahead. Buy some colorful tights. Bring some color into that boring fall wardrobe. Don't be afraid. It's fun!

Twilight

I saw the movie Twilight last night. Now, before you all go bad-mouthing me, just know that I did indeed read the book months ago and enjoyed it, and while I wasn't ecstatic like the rest of the hardcore Edward and Bella fans, I decided it would still be fun to join the rest of the pre-teen population at the theaters for this historic event. So that being said, I hated the movie. I did. I thought it was weird, awkward, and embarrassing. It ruined the beautiful love story I saw in my mind as I read the book. And instead of being swept off my feet by Edward the teenage hearthrob, I just laughed, pretty much the whole way through. You can argue with me all you want, but I just thought it was lame. Sorry.

Since moving in with my two incredible roommates, Allie and Katie, we've enjoyed a special tradition together. Almost every night, after the friends go home and the laughter and giggles are done, Katie and I gather in Allie's room for a special treat. We all coozie up in Allie's bed as she sings us sweet lullabies. Church hymns actually.

If you know Allie, you might be laughing right about now. And for those of you who don't, let me clue you in. Allie doesn't sing. At all. At church she can hardly carry a tune. But bless her heart, when we all snuggle up at night the most sweet little melodious and childlike voice simply quiets us.

And she sings the most beautiful things. Just as we've about drifted off, she always ends with her Grand Finale, "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing." It's a real crowd pleaser. I don't know how she does it, but she always makes my heart smile.

Recently, the three of us came across this amazing video composed of still pictures depicting the life of Christ, set to the most beautiful version you've ever heard of "Come Thou Fount." Take a moment to watch and listen by clicking HERE. And as you do, think of little Allie, Katie, and me all snuggled up together in the dark. Enjoy!

Rip Tide Sushi

What could be better than a date to Rip Tide? TWO dates to Rip Tide! Voted "#1 Sushi Bar in Orange County," this place is simply phenomenal! When I told my friends Chris and Josh that I was going to a birthday party at their favorite sushi joint in Mission Viejo, they made the trip down from LA to eat with me. All three of us have an unhealthy (or is it) obsession with the Explosion roll. If you're ever in the area and in the mood for a good sushi roll, this one is it! Thanks again boys for joining me for a night of Sushi at its finest.

Happy Birthday you dirty bird!

Dearest Lisalu,

I'm not sure who had more fun on your birthday. Me or you? Thanks for letting me kidnap you from work to sip Zebra Chocolate Milk at Starbucks, and for the hilarious monk-e-mail you shared with me at the office which then inspired me to sent you ill-humored monk-e-mails all day long containing childish bathroom humor and inside jokes from our High School days. Oh yes, and for gathering all of your best looking friends for a delicious dinner at The Yard House. Rub a dub dub, thanks for the grub. You should have another birthday this time next year. That would be fun.

Love your stinking guts,

Me!

Disney's Winter Wonderland

I spoiled myself rotten again! Monday I finished my work early so I could spend the afternoon at Disneyland with a friend in town from Vegas. While we may have spent the entire afternoon sweating in the 90 degree Novemeber heat (not normal folks!), I was pleased with the non-existent lines. The park looked fantastic all decorated for Christmas and the holiday cheer was inescapable. Main street was lined with lights, the castle was adorned with snow, and the loud speakers were singing Christmas melodies throughout the park. Now, I'm not usually one to get all excited about Christmas before we even have a chance to enjoy the Thanksgiving holiday, but I just couldn't help myself. Unfortunately, I had to leave before sun-down and missed the best part of the park's holiday transformation. After the sun has set, "White Christmas" is performed, and icicles appear on the castle as snow falls on Main Street. It's like magic! I guess now I have an excuse to make another trip back soon to enjoy Disney's magical Winter Wonderland!

Shedding Some Light

This past weekend while shopping for a new bookcase, I came across this adorable Shabby Chic chandelier that I absolutely fell in love with. It's exactly what I was looking for (with a price tag to match) to complete that girly look I've been going for. My room is my haven and I love it. I know this style isn't for everyone, but I like it and that's all that matters! Oh, and don't worry that Katie and I installed this ourselves too. Yah, we're pretty much certified Electricians! And let's just talk for a minute about all the amazing deals I got on EVERYTHING in this space.

- Banana-Leaf Headboard: Cost Plus World Market $99
- Queen Size Duvet Cover: Ikea $30
- White Bedskirt: Bed Bath & Beyond $19
- Euro Feather Pillow Inserts: Ikea $10 each
- Antique Walnut Nighstand: Consignment Center $129
- Carved Stone Lamp: Hand-me-down $0
- Lamp Shade: Target $20
- Double-decker Desk: Cost Plus World Market $159
- Upholstered Desk Chair: Consignment Center $60
- Crystal Chandelier: Ikea $39
- Mirrored Frames: Aaron Brothers $10 each
- Foliage: Roger's Gardens $6 each
- Monogram Mug: Anthropologie $12

So what do you think? Pretty good bargains, huh? For me, part of the fun in decorating is finding the best product at an even better price. For some reason I always love my purchases so much more when I know I got such a ridiculously good deal on it. Unless it's that new $250 dress at Anthro that you just won't find anywhere else. Because in that case...I just charge it, wear it, and love it. I may be a bargain shopper, but let's get real. My taste ain't cheap.

Quantum of Solace

I'll take one of each please!

The Story of Allie's D@#% Ceiling Fan!

Once upon a time Katie and Aubrey wanted to do something nice for their roommate Allie so they went to Lowe's and bought a ceiling fan for her dark dungeon room. It took them almost 4 flipping hours to install it and they almost threw the d@#% thing in the trash, but they cleaned up their attitudes (and language) and didn't give up. When little Allie came home from work she was so happy to see her new surprise. A ceiling fan of her very own! And they all lived happily (and comfortably cool) ever after. The End.

Under the Covers

I am a lazy piece of trash. I spent the entire day in bed. All of it. And no, I'm NOT sick. I'm NOT depressed. And I'm NOT void of a to-do-list. I just simply wanted to spend the whole day in bed doing nothing. Well, nothing of significant importance. And you know what? It was fantastic! I watched The Price Is Right, caught up on my google reader, worked on my talk for Sunday, and read the last few chapters of a book I've been meaning to finish. Seriously, who knew staying in bed all day could be so much fun.

Happy UnBirthday To Me!

Girl talk at the Daily Grill

Accessorizing at Urban.

I have the best girlfriends ever! Wednesday night I needed an excuse to spend some time with these lovely ladies who I rarely get to see cuz they live so darn far away. Okay, so maybe they're only a 45 minute drive up the coast, but for reals, that's kinda far. So, we decided to throw ourselves an Unbirthday party! Together we enjoyed a fabulous dinner at the Daily Grill in Newport, a restaurant we'd all been wanting to try. Great choice! Then after dinner we wandered next door and tried on a few things at Urban. I seriously love these girls. I mean how can you not? Favorite line of the night: "I'm not playing hard to get, I just am hard to get." -Miss Emily Hatch

Sara's Bedroom Bridal Shower

Tuesday night a bunch of girls from the San Clemente 5th Ward helped celebrate Sara Carruth's upcoming marriage to Brian Erickson with a little bedroom themed Bridal Shower. We all showed up in our comfy cozies and brought gifts for well, the bedroom. I have to say, of all the 5,397 Bridal showers I've been to, this one was by far the funniest! Party because of some top-secret information leaked about the groom-to-be by his bride-to-be. But mostly because Heather Morris was there, and we all know how hilarious she can be! Her witty bedroom banter with Sara had us in tears all night. She even wore a shirt she won in a blog contest that says: "LOLOMGWTFLDSBBQ!" Thank you Heather! Can't wait for her Bridal Shower just around the corner.

And the moral of the story is...

Don't ditch Sunday School to pick up your roommate from the airport because you just might be cursed with a flat tire on the I-5 freeway. Allie and I were just happy Peter stowed away to help change the flat. Thanks Brother McGrath!

The McKissick Wedding

What a beautiful weekend for a Harbor wedding. This past Saturday my long-time High School friend, Nicki Howard, was married to Daniel McKissick at Lantern Bay Park in Dana Point. The ceremony was beautiful and Nicki looked radiant in her white wedding gown.




The day was doubly exciting because my best friend Allison Montano and her husband drove down from Vegas for the ceremony. I guess it kinda goes without saying that Ali and I had a little too much fun entertaining ourselves at the reception. We're ridiculous, we know. Some things never change!

Neighborhood Watch Program

Move over Teri Hatcher. Wisteria Lane ain't got nothin' on us! So I usually like to reserve my blog for the happy things in my life, but this one is just too good not to share. I live on the craziest street in Dana Point. Hands down. Let me elaborate. It's 2am and I just got off the phone with 911. It's the 4th time in 2 months. You'd think I'd be used to this by now. And here's why. My neighbors are absolutely off their friggin' rockers.

Saturday night as I was in a sound slumber I heard a loud crash, smash, boom, followed by a slew of unrepeatable four letter words. Startled, I jumped out of bed and ran to the window. My first thought was "Someone hit my car!" Well, I was half right. Someone hit a car, it just wasn't mine. Thank goodness!

When I walked outside and looked around I saw a bunch of drunks getting out of a car that had just careened into several parked cars along the side of our street. What a bunch of morons. My neighbor came out of the house in hysterics when she realized it was her car that was hit and our crazy "Oxymormon" neighbor (don't ask!) started yelling "I think they have a gun." So, I ran inside, woke up Allie for some back-up, and grabbed my phone. Minutes after dialing 911 there were sirens and flashing lights speeding down our streeet.

I wish I could say that I stayed to find out what happened but we both chickened out and went inside to watch from the window. I guess I'll never know the real outcome of the night time drama.

But seriously, if you think that story's crazy, ask me about the alcoholic mother/daughter duo across the street, or the naked lady in the green shutter house, or the cheating husband who's sleeping with alcoholic mother/daughter duo. This neighborhood is really something else!!! Katie, Allie and I are starting our own neighborhood watch program. You know, the kind where you turn off all the lights and watch the crazy people from the window. Good times.

Cam The Ladies' Man

According to Wikipedia a ladies' man is a male seducer of women. Cameron, keep that in mind when working on your wish. I'll be following up with you in the next few weeks to see how it's going. And I mean it Mister. Happy Birthday bud!

OC's Newest Floral Designer

I got the job! I am officially Orange County's newest floral designer and event planner for a darling little flower shop in Laguna Beach. I met with the owners Friday for my second interview and was offered the job on the spot. There are so many great things to look forward to with this new career that I can hardly contian myself. For one, the owners are incredible. They are more about seeing that their employees are well taken care of, rather than growing their own pocketbooks. Which, needless to say, is hard to come by these days. Also, they are only open Monday through Saturday. Hallelujah! And most importantly, they love me! They are confident that I will bring to the store and their events, the aesthetic that has been missing for so long. I hope that with my knowledge of design and eye for color, I can meet and exceed their expectations. I start in three weeks which is just enough time to finish a few of the Interior Design projects I'm currently wrapped up in, and to take a quick trip down to Arizona to see some family and friends. I can't help but think that this blessing is a direct result of my recent work on the Proposition 8 campaign. I still remember the words of Elder Ballard when he said that we will recieve blessings and see miracles if we will do all we can to support this cause. I feel showered with His love. Now I can pay rent, my car payment, AND eat food. That's something to be thankful for!

Beach Day in November?

Friday morning we woke up to 80 degree weather along the coast and decided it was a beach day! We simply couldn't pass up the opportunity to take little Noah down to Laguna for some fun in the sun. He is such a little beach bum!

Playdate with Noah!

Thursday night the girls and I bundled up to cheer on the Mission Viejo Diablo's at little Matty's football game against my old High School, the Dana Hills Dolphins. For such a little guy he was one mean defensive lineman! Way to go lucky seven! And what added more to the excitement of the night, Allie's older sister Jessica and her cute baby Noah came to cheer her brother to his 14-7 victory, while the men were out on the Hobby Yacht, catching some fresh lobster for their Sunday dinner. Can you say jealous? But it's okay, because you know what they say, when the boys are away, the girls will play. And oh did we ever, didn't we Noah!!! I just love that little face!

Urban Living at Astoria

A new high rise is nearing completion in Irvine called The Astoria. With it's downtown Orange County location, this metropolitan marvel lends itself to a lifestyle of Urban Living. This past week my mother and I had the opportunity to tour the property with the ASID program at The Interior Designers Institute in Newport Beach. With our hard hats on we headed up to the 14th floor to take a look at the penthouse suites and marvel at the rooftop view. The approximate 3,000 sq. foot floorplans include a gourmet kitchen, 3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, and a dramatic city view. I think this distinctly different property will be an exciting opportunity for those looking for a substitute to the Urban lifestyle. Next time you're in Irvine driving along the 405 Fwy, be sure to look up!

Grand Finale Calling Party!!!

Get out to your polling places and Vote YES on Prop 8 today!

DHHS Homecoming 2008

Saturday night my adorable (and by adorable I mean very handsome and manly) brother Scott, attended his first High School dance with the lovely Tawny Zambrano. They looked absolutely fantastic! And in case you've done the math and are wondering why so many ladies, Devyn Gibby (the little hottie on the far right in the group photo) brought FOUR dates. Way to go Devyn! Lucky ladies if you ask me.

Break the Fast

For a little over a year now I've been on the Activities Committee in the San Clemente 5th Ward. My specific assignment has been to coordinate our monthly Break the Fast. I must say, it's been a fun calling, but it definitely has its challenges. This Sunday I just couldn't get over how amazingly helpful my committee was in "preparing every needful thing." I was especially impressed with this guy, Brother Jason Perry, chef extraordinaire. This kid has got it goin' on. He showed up at church with a handful of pressed aprons, a pot bubbling with his incredible homemade spaghetti sauce, and an attitude of "How can I help!" I can't thank my committee enough for all the hard work they do every month. Thanks guys for making me look good!

Freaky Friday Halloween Bash!