Saturday, October 11, 2008
Our Sealing
On October 11, 2008 Brian and I were sealed at the Newport Beach Temple. Here are some photos:



Thursday, October 9, 2008
In-&-Out Urban Legend
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
For all the In-and-Out Lovers
Monday, October 6, 2008
Mid-Terms
I have five mid-terms within the next three weeks. Right now I am supposed to be completing a take home mid-term for my Future of Real Estate class. I was getting tired of writing so I checked out everyone's blogs. Thanks for the distraction.
One of the 5 questions on my take home mid-term is: Religion has played a major role in the development of cities. Please demonstrate this with examples from the period from Mesopotamia to the Renaissance and assess whether that role is still relevant today.
I have to write 1200 words for each question, so you can see why I am having trouble concentrating.
It would be interesting to get your opinion. Basically, religion played a huge role in developing cities in the past. The town would start with just a religious building, then markets would develop in a circular pattern around the religious building, then common dwelling were built around the market. Typically a wall was build for security purposes (more usual in Islamic countries... motes were created during the Renaissance period). So, my question is...
Do you think that our modern cities are still built around our religions?
One of the 5 questions on my take home mid-term is: Religion has played a major role in the development of cities. Please demonstrate this with examples from the period from Mesopotamia to the Renaissance and assess whether that role is still relevant today.
I have to write 1200 words for each question, so you can see why I am having trouble concentrating.
It would be interesting to get your opinion. Basically, religion played a huge role in developing cities in the past. The town would start with just a religious building, then markets would develop in a circular pattern around the religious building, then common dwelling were built around the market. Typically a wall was build for security purposes (more usual in Islamic countries... motes were created during the Renaissance period). So, my question is...
Do you think that our modern cities are still built around our religions?
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
I love Food!
The great thing about pregnancy is the satisfaction I get when I satisfy a craving. It is very strange how someone could just mention some type of food, something I may have not eaten in years or something I have never liked, and just could do anything to get my hands on it. I have had a strange cycle for food cravings that have lasted about 2-3 weeks each while I have been pregnant. Here is the progression...
Pickles- on everything
Bagels with whipped cream cheese and salt (sandwich pickles layered on top)
Polish Hot Dogs from Costco with lots of onionsPizza with extra cheese
Any type of Candy (mainly bite-size Halloween candy)
and now...
French Pastries!
Today I saw someone eat a french pastry (the kind filled with whipped cream) and now I can't stop thinking about it. If ANYONE knows of a french pastry shop/bakery in the Orange County area PLEASE let me know. For some reason I imagine a french pastry shop looking like this!

Friday, September 26, 2008
I HATE VISTA!
Since Brian and I are both going to school full time our one laptop just wasn't cutting it anymore. I bought a new Dell laptop and it came with Vista. Well, I you may have heard, it is really hard to open Windows Vista documents on computers with regular Windows. I like to transfer my notes/homework/papers between my laptop and my home computer to print them. Well, it was driving me crazy since it was having so much trouble. A friend at school told me to just use the CD of Vista from Dell that came with the laptop and install it on my home computer without registering it. I thought you couldn't do that because of legal purposes. He ASSURED me that it is ok. That Vista encourages that so people are more willing to buy Vista since it has a bad reputation.Well, I did it and things were great for about three days! Then, I get an email from Vista letting me know that my program has been installed twice and that it is illegal. I had 24 hours to contact them if this was an error. I was shocked. I didn't even register it... how did they know? I guess Bill Gates knows all... Well, I waited to ask my friend what to do and the 24 hours expired. Immediately my programs of Vista were shut down on my laptop and I was told to repurchase the program and install it with a new product key. I bought the $128.99 Student and Home Office Vista and can you believe it IT WON'T WORK. I don't know what I am doing wrong, but I am too afraid to call because technically I am a CRIMINAL!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Shopaholic!
On Tuesday I did another interview for Suzie Suh from CBS 2 and KCAL 9. This time it was on shopaholics and impulse shopping. They asked me to just give tid bits on how to become more financially secure. It's funny that they call me for financial tips for different stories. In reality I am just saying the same things over and over again:Track your Expense- Know where your money is going
Budget your Expenses by creating spending limits
Don't forget to budget for period expenses (i.e. car registration)
Take proactive steps to reduce common expenses (get on the phone and negotiate down your monthly bills, print coupons, cut back on electricity usage, drive less)
Give everyone in the family (including parents) allowances for all of the little things they purchase
Save a minimum of 10% each paycheck for emergencies or unexpected expenses
Focus on debt reduction (cut up retail credit cards immediately!) visit a certified credit counselor at a non-profit agency for help setting up a game plan
Only carry 1 credit card in your wallet and have no more than 2-3 total
Write down all of your debit card purchases in your checkbook registry (where they belong) to avoid any Non Sufficient Fund Fees
Talk about finances as a family- Budgeting is only successful when everyone in the family contributes to its success
Even though I basically say this entire list each time on camera it is up to the reporter to pick and choose which one to put into the story. So... Here is the link to watch the video clip of the CBS/KCAL interview, but you basically just read it in my blog!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
New Bedding and More Movement!
Last night I felt Savannah from the outside of my tummy. It was the strangest feeling I have ever had. Each time she begins to kick I will have someone put their hand on my stomach to feel it too, but she ALWAYS stops. Brian is getting a little frustrated. When she starts kicking I will call for him and he runs in and puts his hand on my belly and nothing!
Also, this past weekend my Mom and I went out and found the cutest bedding. My Mom bought us two beautiful pieces of furniture. We decided that a full size crib would just be too big for our little one-bedroom condo. We got a porta-crib and a changing table to match. The wood is a dark espresso. So, try to imagine the lady bugs with the pale pink against the dark wood- it's adorable. The only disappointing part is that porta-cribs have a minimal selection of only ugly bedding, and the lady bug bedding didn't come in porta-crib. So, I bought as much as I could (hamper, diaper holder, mobile, paintings, rug, valance, and drapes). I couldn't get the actual bedding (bumper, fitted sheet or quilted blanket). I figured that I could just buy more drapes and try to make the stuff I couldn't buy... since I don't sew it will be a challenge! The changing table had wicker baskets instead of drawers so I thought I would change out the basket liners with the matching material from extra drapes.
Here is a photo from their website at www.kidslineinc.com:

Friday, September 12, 2008
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Baby Shower Tea
Last Saturday, my Aunt gave me a baby shower. We went to a tea house in Brea and had a wonderful time. It was all girls and even Ashlyn went. My cousins and aunt showered Savannah with lots of cute outfits and swaddlers! Everything was SO CUTE in pinks and greens. Thank you all so much for such a great time. Here are a few photos of the event.

Thursday, September 4, 2008
Sarah, Sarah!
Brian jokingly refers to my Republican Presidential candidate pick, then after last February, my Republican Vice President pick as my "boyfriend". As you can understand, after studying the economy for the last year and listening to all of the candidates I was 100% for Mitt Romney. The 'boyfriend' reference is because I am so supportive of him. I often refer to him as the smartest economist in the world, a fix it guy, and I also have him on my top 5 list of people to meet in my lifetime. So, I was very disappointed when Brian woke me up last week to tell me that Mitt Romney was not McCain's VP choice. I started rattling off who else I thought it was. I never guessed Sarah Palin (Brian and I just referred to her as the woman from Alaska) was even a serious candidate, and honestly I didn't know anything about her.
So, not too happy with John McCain's decision, I started reading about who the heck Sarah Palin is to try to understand why he picked her. I hoped it wasn't just political angle to get Hilary voters because she is a woman. After I read multiple sites about her I was truly impressed. I set the DVR to record the entire 3rd day of the Republican National Convention. Not only to see my 'boyfriend' deliver another awesome speech, but to hear Sarah's view directly from her. I was BLOWN away by her confidence, her fight, her position on Drilling, her position on big government and, ironically enough (since all the media said was the opposite), I was impressed with her track record and experience.
So, GO SARAH! What an inspiration you are to PTA and 'Hockey' Mom's, young women, and female college students to remember that we have a voice and can make a difference. Who knows... maybe in 13 years I can be a Vice President Nominee too!
Friday, August 29, 2008
Lot's of Movement!
Our baby girl is really starting to move around. I think that is the strangest part of pregnancy. I just got used to the idea of having a human body in my belly then she starts to move and really blows my mind.
Brian and I have a lot of girls names that we are thinking about. My Dad came up with Briley. He thought it was cute since it is half Brian and half Kelly. Well, the newest little girl on the Rogers' side is Riley, so that's a no. Sorry Dad. We really love the name Savannah Elizabeth Rogers. We also like Bailey and Isabel as first names. I think we are pretty set on Savannah since we are now referring to her as that name.
Brian and I have a lot of girls names that we are thinking about. My Dad came up with Briley. He thought it was cute since it is half Brian and half Kelly. Well, the newest little girl on the Rogers' side is Riley, so that's a no. Sorry Dad. We really love the name Savannah Elizabeth Rogers. We also like Bailey and Isabel as first names. I think we are pretty set on Savannah since we are now referring to her as that name.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
It's a Girl



Yesterday, Brian and I found out that we are having a baby girl. We are so excited. It was interesting trying to get to our appointment though. Lily, our puppy, is very sick. She has developed allergies and has hives all over her body. We are giving her her medicine, but it isn't working. Well, as we were leaving the house to go to the appointment Lily ran out the front door. She didn't run away, but sat between my legs. When I tried to move her she rolled over on her back. Since she is more than 40 lbs. we couldn't pick her up, so Brian went back inside and got a piece of chicken to get her to go back inside. Once she was through the doorway Brian quickly shut the door. We both looked at each other and realized we didn't have the keys! We checked with our neighbor (who has our spare key) and she wasn't home. I burst into tears. We started calling everyone we knew to give us a ride to the doctor's appointment. Finally, my assistant from work (also a very good friend) quickly drove over picked us up and took us to Kaiser. I was crying the whole time because Kaiser is REALLY strict about the 15 minute late rule. We got there 17 minutes after our appointment. I can't believe they let us in, but the receptionist felt really bad for us, and I think my black eye liner all over my face helped validate my story.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
THANKSGIVING!

If you are spending Thanksgiving in Palm Springs this year here is the information for the 5k. I know that Brian and I are signing up. He will run... I will walk. The proceeds go to Martha's Village to feed the homeless.
Here is the website: http://www.mvkthanksgivingrun.org/
Also, Thanksgiving will be extra special this year because the Seahawks will be playing Dallas! Brian has explained what a big deal it is to have a Thanksgiving Day game since the Seahawks have almost never had one in history!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008
New Baby Picture!
The beginning of the baby Bump!
Here is the most recent ultrasound photo taken yesterday. The baby is almost 15 weeks. In the photo the baby is sucking it's thumb.

Peter was in town and was able to come to the appointment with Brian and me.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Disneyland
I have been working on a partnership with Disneyland to put a credit counseling office in the back offices of Disneyland. Today, I had my final meeting with them and was given a back lot tour. My meeting started in the greenish building that is right off the 5 and ball. It was so interesting to walk through and see what happens behind the scenes. I saw the barns were the horses are trained and live, were they grow all of the plants, toured the floats for the parades, saw the maintenance department for the rides and walked right into Disneyland. It was so weird because there are no security officers or gates between toon-town and the back lots. We just walked right in and walk right out by it's a small world. The good news is they excepted my proposal and we will be opening an 'Disney Cast' office in September.
My CEO took a photo of me while at the park since we were both in suites and we looked so out of place. I also sent the photo out to the staff telling them the good news. They asked if I went on any rides and I said I couldn't. I then had to spill the beans and explain that I was pregnant!

My CEO took a photo of me while at the park since we were both in suites and we looked so out of place. I also sent the photo out to the staff telling them the good news. They asked if I went on any rides and I said I couldn't. I then had to spill the beans and explain that I was pregnant!

Thursday, July 24, 2008
School News!
After I found out I was pregnant I went and spoke to my advisor about how to speed up my classes. She was not very helpful and actually suggested I take a couple years off! Being very persistent I contacted each individual Professor and asked if they would make an exception and let me into their class despite my lack of the prerequisites.
Well, I immediately heard from two instructors that let me in. I was waiting on one more. If she didn't let me in I would have to take just one more class in Spring to finish my MBA. For two months I didn't hear anything. I sent my emails again and again. Finally, yesterday I got a response. Although the email was very stern, and express how agitated he gets when students try to get in without the prerequisites done... she is allowing me to take her class due to my "unusual and unique situation as an MBA student". So I officially done with my MBA on December 11th, but walk in May. I have to take 5 classes next semester, but it is just so nice to be done before the baby is comes!
Other REALLY great news!
Matt, my brother, decided to go back to school and finish his AA. He only has one math class left. He is taking it this fall and will graduate on May 20, 2009.
So, here is the breakdown:
May 20, 2009 Matt's Graduation at Fullerton College, AA
May 23, 2009 Brian's Graduation at California State University, Fullerton, BA (10:00 AM)
May 23, 2009 Kelly's Graduation at Chapman University, MBA (5:00 PM)
Well, I immediately heard from two instructors that let me in. I was waiting on one more. If she didn't let me in I would have to take just one more class in Spring to finish my MBA. For two months I didn't hear anything. I sent my emails again and again. Finally, yesterday I got a response. Although the email was very stern, and express how agitated he gets when students try to get in without the prerequisites done... she is allowing me to take her class due to my "unusual and unique situation as an MBA student". So I officially done with my MBA on December 11th, but walk in May. I have to take 5 classes next semester, but it is just so nice to be done before the baby is comes!
Other REALLY great news!
Matt, my brother, decided to go back to school and finish his AA. He only has one math class left. He is taking it this fall and will graduate on May 20, 2009.
So, here is the breakdown:
May 20, 2009 Matt's Graduation at Fullerton College, AA
May 23, 2009 Brian's Graduation at California State University, Fullerton, BA (10:00 AM)
May 23, 2009 Kelly's Graduation at Chapman University, MBA (5:00 PM)
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
The loss of a Wonderful Woman

Today, my adopted Grandma passed away. Rosemary was the kindest, most loving Grandmother figure Peter and I had in our lives. She called us her grandchildren, my Mom was her adopted daughter, and Chance (my Mom's dog) was her best friend. She attend all our of family events (Holidays, Graduations). Due to her being ill she was unable to attend my wedding, and she said it broke her heart that she couldn't be there. I have spent many days throughout the last 4 or 5 years sitting by her side in the hospital with doctors telling us it was the end, but Rosemary was always so strong. After this last visit in the hospital they put her on Hospice.
I am so grateful that I was able to know her. I loved her like a Grandmother, and she loved me like a grandchild. I was so blessed to have a relationship like that.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Finally... Orlando Pictures
At the end of May the whole family (Mom, Dad, Matt, Peter, Danny (Pete's boyfriend), Brian and myself all went to Orlando to go to Disney World. Brian was the only one that has never gone. Although I have been there two or three times I don't really remember too much from our trips since I was too little.
We had such a great time, but I didn't go on any rides since we had just found out that I was pregnant. The best part was that Disney sell those huge pickles EVERY WHERE. Brian probably ended up buying me two a day!
We went on a swap tour, spent four days at the Disney World and even drove to Tampa Bay to go swimming.
Here some pictures from the trip:
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Pregnancy Update
Brian and I went to the doctor yesterday, and I have kinda been taken OFF of high risk. This is a very good news, but now we don't get an ultrasound every time. I have already had 3 and I am 8 weeks and 7 days. I had two more scheduled next month, but they canceled one of them. They also moved the due date to January 29, 2009.
With Kaiser I am assigned to a mid-wife (endometeriosis specialist) and a physician. It was our first time meeting the physician and she was very nice. As she was reading my chart she was talking out loud and said "ok... I see that you have gained one pound so far." Brian remarked, "ONE POUND... and your already wearing stretchy pants!" After digesting his comment, I thought why is that? My belly does look a lot bigger and my old pants are way to uncomfortable to wear. My cramps have been so bad that I just can't wear anything with a button. So, I am already wearing maternity pants (just a little stretch in the waist). When you see me, please don't be surprised to see me in "stretchy pants"!
With Kaiser I am assigned to a mid-wife (endometeriosis specialist) and a physician. It was our first time meeting the physician and she was very nice. As she was reading my chart she was talking out loud and said "ok... I see that you have gained one pound so far." Brian remarked, "ONE POUND... and your already wearing stretchy pants!" After digesting his comment, I thought why is that? My belly does look a lot bigger and my old pants are way to uncomfortable to wear. My cramps have been so bad that I just can't wear anything with a button. So, I am already wearing maternity pants (just a little stretch in the waist). When you see me, please don't be surprised to see me in "stretchy pants"!
Monday, June 23, 2008
Morning Sickness
I have been having a lot of morning sickness. I will try anything to feel better. Any suggestions?
Sunday, June 15, 2008
I can't stop crying!
This weekend Brian and I went to Palm Springs, and then rushed back early today to make it for church. We had such a wonderful time swimming in the pool and playing the baby naming game. Last night I watched the Notebook on TV and cried forever- Brian was really concerned. At church today we went around with the Primary kids and sang Father Day songs to all the dads. Watching Brian stand with a bunch of little kids singing (with hand motions and everything) I became really emotional thinking about when our kids will sing to Brian. Then, after reading Lisa Henderson's blog about Father's Day I cried again! This is very common lately- thanks hormones! I just started thinking about how amazing my Dad is, and what a special thing it is to have a unique bond with him. I also started thinking about Brian as a Father, and I cannot wait to see him interact with our baby for the first time!
So, thanks for making me cry Lisa!
So, thanks for making me cry Lisa!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
If you haven't heard yet...

We're having a BABY!
Brian and I found out in May, and wanted to keep it a secret until at least the end of the first trimester. Well, it's hard for my parents to keep secrets and it was only a matter of time before everyone found out. So, here is the baby's first photo. I am only 6 weeks and 3 days. The baby's due date is January 31, 2009, but they told us to plan for the first week of February.
Brian and I were told that it could take a couple years for us to get pregnant. So after two years of thinking "if it happens it happens" we said both said one day that we wanted a baby. One month later (without doing anything different) we were pregnant! Our mid-wife said it is a miracle baby since women with endometeriosis sometimes never get pregnant.
Brian is sure it is a boy, and I am sure it is a girl.
So, since we found out this amazing news we have been making a lot of changes. We did not buy the 2-bedroom condo, and decided just to build more storage space in our current place. Brian and I are taking heavy school loads this summer and fall so that we have only one or two classes left after the baby is born. Brian is taking the GRE in October so that he can apply earlier for Graduate School. He is applying to Arizona State, University of Arizona, Cal State Fullerton, Loma Linda, Cal State Long Beach, BYU, Texas, Colorado, Ohio, and Cal State Fresno. Each Speech Language Pathology program only take 20 out of 300-500 applicants so we are basically planning on moving to any school Brian's is excepted to next June.
Some people have asked what we will do with Lily (our puggle). Since she is like our first child she is not going anywhere.
We are so excited for all of the changes happening in our lives, and will be blogging about our experiences!
Sunday, June 8, 2008
My first time speaking in church!
Today was my very first time giving a talk at church. Brian and I spoke about Gordon B. Hinckley's book Way To Be. I spoke about Be Positive and Be Grateful. Brian spoke about Be Humble and Be Prayerful. Aunt Caroline came to cheer us on, and somehow got roped into substituting for the sunbeams class. She is a pro, and the Primary was so grateful for her willingness to jump in and help us out of a jam.
On a side note... I usually have to take the sunbeams class in with my CTR 4-7 year olds, but it is very difficult because each class has a very difficult child. So, when the classes are combined it is usually chaos. Luke, in the sunbeams class, will not sit still, doesn't follow directions well, and is always trying to take toys out of his backpack. During sharing time I am usually dragging him back to his chair or quieting him down. I have not figured out how to get him to sit still. So, today in Primary during sharing time I looked over at Aunt Caroline and I see Luke glued to his chair. He was quite, attentive and his backpack was not a distraction. I saw him starting to get up but Aunt Caroline gave him some magical look while saying "Luke" and he sat right back down. I don't know how Auntie does it, but we all commented how Luke has NEVER been better at church!
On a side note... I usually have to take the sunbeams class in with my CTR 4-7 year olds, but it is very difficult because each class has a very difficult child. So, when the classes are combined it is usually chaos. Luke, in the sunbeams class, will not sit still, doesn't follow directions well, and is always trying to take toys out of his backpack. During sharing time I am usually dragging him back to his chair or quieting him down. I have not figured out how to get him to sit still. So, today in Primary during sharing time I looked over at Aunt Caroline and I see Luke glued to his chair. He was quite, attentive and his backpack was not a distraction. I saw him starting to get up but Aunt Caroline gave him some magical look while saying "Luke" and he sat right back down. I don't know how Auntie does it, but we all commented how Luke has NEVER been better at church!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
"How Old Does Brian Look?" Results
25- 1 vote
26- 1 vote
27- 1 vote
28- 1 vote
29- 1 vote
30- 3 votes
31- 1 vote
32- 1 vote
33- 1 vote
When this whole "how old do I look?" thing first started Brian was surprised that his primary class thought he was 38 years old. I told Brian he looked 26. The poll on the blog averaged 29.18 and the most frequent answer was 30. Well, Brian just had a birthday a couple weeks ago and his real age is...
28!
26- 1 vote
27- 1 vote
28- 1 vote
29- 1 vote
30- 3 votes
31- 1 vote
32- 1 vote
33- 1 vote
When this whole "how old do I look?" thing first started Brian was surprised that his primary class thought he was 38 years old. I told Brian he looked 26. The poll on the blog averaged 29.18 and the most frequent answer was 30. Well, Brian just had a birthday a couple weeks ago and his real age is...
28!
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
How Old Does Brian Look?
On Sunday, Brian was playing a scripture trivia game with his primary class (consisting of 9-11 year old boys). It came down to a tie. Trying to make it really interesting, Brian's tie breaking question was "How old do you think I am?" One boy thought really hard and then said, "38!" The other boy said, "That's not fair I wanted to pick 38!" Brian was stunned. "Do I really look 38?"
So after church Brian asked me, "How old do I look?" I gave him my answer, and he said I was bias. So, we decided to take it to the public.

Please look as his current picture and vote on the anonymous poll on the right-hand of the screen. After the closing of the poll, I will post the results and Brian's real age.
Brian's request is that you be completely honest! He is not sensitive, so don't worry about hurting his feelings. We are just collecting statistical data to see if Brian or myself had a more accurate idea of what others think his age is?
Thanks for participating in our study!
So after church Brian asked me, "How old do I look?" I gave him my answer, and he said I was bias. So, we decided to take it to the public.
How old does Brian look?

Please look as his current picture and vote on the anonymous poll on the right-hand of the screen. After the closing of the poll, I will post the results and Brian's real age.
Brian's request is that you be completely honest! He is not sensitive, so don't worry about hurting his feelings. We are just collecting statistical data to see if Brian or myself had a more accurate idea of what others think his age is?
Thanks for participating in our study!
Finals!
Right now Brian and I have finals! What a stressful time. Although, there is just something so satisfying about walking out of a final. I guess I have never walked out of a final worrying if I have passed, but more "Thank Goodness I never have to do that again!"
It is really nice to take a break between studying to read every one's blogs! Tomorrow I have my statistics final. I never want to see a z, t, chai table EVER again! The only benefit is that I can navigate around Excel very well now.
It is really nice to take a break between studying to read every one's blogs! Tomorrow I have my statistics final. I never want to see a z, t, chai table EVER again! The only benefit is that I can navigate around Excel very well now.
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Old Photos...
I was organizing "My Photos" on my computer and came across these two awesome photos of my parents. The first was taken on February 6, 1985 by Uncle Larry. It was taken as my parents were walking out the door when my mom was in labor with me!
I can't believe how thin my Mom was- scary thin!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Money "Mom-sims"
I wrote this press release for Mother's Day. If you don't live in Orange County you most likely will not see it, but it will be open to the Associated Press after it is published in the OC Register and then it is free game for other news outlets to use. I write one or two a month, but this one seemed like a good fit for the blog! I know that my Mom and maybe Aunt Caroline have a lot of sayings. Peter and I call them "Mom-sims". So, thanks MOM for, in a way, helping me write this press release...
It never hurts to go back to the basics. When we were young children, our moms provided lots of advice on good money management through simple phrases. These tried and true “Mom-isms” may seem like plain common sense, but in today’s more complex world, they still provide good direction for how to make the most of our money and avoid financial trouble. In honor of Mother’s Day this month, Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County suggests we revisit some of Mom’s wise sayings about managing money.
Money doesn’t grow on trees – Mom wanted us to realize that there is a limit to what we can spend – a finite amount of money available to us. Keeping that in mind makes understanding the difference between wants and needs a little clearer and impresses upon us the need to make careful choices.
Pay yourself first – Realizing how easy it is to find things to spend money on, Mom encouraged us to establish a savings habit by making it a priority. Nowadays, we can make it easy and automatic to save through direct deposit into an account each payday.
Save for a rainy day – Today, we may be saving for specific goals - a car, a home, retirement, but Mom knew that the unexpected always happens. With all the uncertainties in today’s world, an emergency fund account makes more sense then ever. Don’t think you can find the money? Track your spending for two weeks and you may be surprised at the “spending leaks” you’ll discover.
Don’t rob Peter to pay Paul – Paying one credit card with cash advances from another should be considered a red flag. Taking on new debt to resolve old debt should be considered carefully to make sure you have a plan to pay off the debt and are not just going in circles.
Don’t take any wooden nickels – Mom warned us that some things just seem too good to be true and that is still the case today. There are plenty of scam artists out there ready to take advantage of us through identity theft and fraudulent schemes. Increase your consumer awareness of strategies to prevent and defend against those crimes.
“This Mother’s Day, give your mom the gift of knowing you took her advice about becoming financially stable. That’s a present she won’t return,” said Kelly Rogers, Director of Education.
Need more than Mom’s advice? You don’t have to solve your financial problems alone. Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County is just a call or click away. To reach the certified credit counselor closest to you dial (714) 547-2227, or online go to http://www.cccsoc.org/.
It never hurts to go back to the basics. When we were young children, our moms provided lots of advice on good money management through simple phrases. These tried and true “Mom-isms” may seem like plain common sense, but in today’s more complex world, they still provide good direction for how to make the most of our money and avoid financial trouble. In honor of Mother’s Day this month, Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County suggests we revisit some of Mom’s wise sayings about managing money.
Money doesn’t grow on trees – Mom wanted us to realize that there is a limit to what we can spend – a finite amount of money available to us. Keeping that in mind makes understanding the difference between wants and needs a little clearer and impresses upon us the need to make careful choices.
Pay yourself first – Realizing how easy it is to find things to spend money on, Mom encouraged us to establish a savings habit by making it a priority. Nowadays, we can make it easy and automatic to save through direct deposit into an account each payday.
Save for a rainy day – Today, we may be saving for specific goals - a car, a home, retirement, but Mom knew that the unexpected always happens. With all the uncertainties in today’s world, an emergency fund account makes more sense then ever. Don’t think you can find the money? Track your spending for two weeks and you may be surprised at the “spending leaks” you’ll discover.
Don’t rob Peter to pay Paul – Paying one credit card with cash advances from another should be considered a red flag. Taking on new debt to resolve old debt should be considered carefully to make sure you have a plan to pay off the debt and are not just going in circles.
Don’t take any wooden nickels – Mom warned us that some things just seem too good to be true and that is still the case today. There are plenty of scam artists out there ready to take advantage of us through identity theft and fraudulent schemes. Increase your consumer awareness of strategies to prevent and defend against those crimes.
“This Mother’s Day, give your mom the gift of knowing you took her advice about becoming financially stable. That’s a present she won’t return,” said Kelly Rogers, Director of Education.
Need more than Mom’s advice? You don’t have to solve your financial problems alone. Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Orange County is just a call or click away. To reach the certified credit counselor closest to you dial (714) 547-2227, or online go to http://www.cccsoc.org/.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
BABY!
Brian and I are SO excited... Brian's sister is pregnant! We just found out last night and we are so ecxited. Stephanie is six months- she kept it a secret for a long time! She is having her third child and it's their first BOY! Congrats Stephanie!
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Coachella Festival and the Handlebar Mustache
Brian and the guys had a 13 hour push up competition. The winner was who ever did the most push up in the 13 hour period, but I had to keep tally. They could not know how many they did or how many anybody else did. This intensified the competition. Since they all are so competitive they were doing push ups everywhere. I would be in the grocery store, by the pool, at the concert and they would drop down and start doing push ups. The winner was Joe Lambert with 299 push ups all the way down to Brian with 127. They were all soar for the rest of the weekend.
If you take a close look at the picture you can see that Brian's facial hair is a little different. Everyday of the festival Brian shaved a little more. One day it was handlebars, then it just kept getting shorter and more creepy! Per my request, he is growing it back out to the full goatee.
Brian really misses his friends from Seattle. He always has such a good time when they visit.
This was at 1:00am when the push up competition ended. Everyone was dead tired... Even I was tired of counting all of their push ups ALL DAY!
Friday, April 18, 2008
A night with the kids!

This was the night Brian, Peter and myself took Ashylnn, Caleb and Briggs to Baskin Robbins for ice cream. Since we are all lacking with our experience with kids we just got them ice cream in cones. Within one minute, before we could even pay, all the ice cream was on the floor. So, we re-ordered, this time with ice cream and cone pushed down in to a cup. It was SO much fun. Here are some photos of the event.


Tuesday, April 1, 2008
They took our OFFER!!!!
Hey everyone, I know that I have not blogged in a while, but today I have really great news.
Brian and I had put an offer on a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo and the offer was just excepted today! The new place is only about 200 feet away from our current 1 bedroom 1 bathroom condo. We are very excited to move into it. Since it was a bank owned property it has a longer escrow period of 45 days. We are still going to keep our current place and just rent it out. Brian and I cannot wait to start on the renovations. We are going to try to save where ever possible... So=Lis expect a ton of calls from me! We are so lucky to have such good friends in our ward that have graciously offered to help with most of the labor intense portions. At least the moving part with be easy! I am definitely going to blog and show pictures of the changes we are making. I just can't wait!!!
Brian and I had put an offer on a 2 bedroom 2 bathroom condo and the offer was just excepted today! The new place is only about 200 feet away from our current 1 bedroom 1 bathroom condo. We are very excited to move into it. Since it was a bank owned property it has a longer escrow period of 45 days. We are still going to keep our current place and just rent it out. Brian and I cannot wait to start on the renovations. We are going to try to save where ever possible... So=Lis expect a ton of calls from me! We are so lucky to have such good friends in our ward that have graciously offered to help with most of the labor intense portions. At least the moving part with be easy! I am definitely going to blog and show pictures of the changes we are making. I just can't wait!!!
Saturday, February 9, 2008
In Honor of Tradition
When I was growing up my Mom ALWAYS took a picture and filmed us in front of the house on the first day of school. Well, to follow that tradition, Brian took a picture of me on the FIRST day of lecturing at Chapman University. It was the one of the best experiences of my life. I taught three different lectures (management consulting, international entrepreneurship, and operational project management). Here is a picture of me practicing my best teacher pose.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Way Busy!
So, I haven't blogged in a while. That is mostly due to the fact that I have overbooked myself... once again. I am just finishing a four-week (winter term) management consulting class. I actually was assigned an Orange County business that is in need of some assistance. They basically have a revenue generating issue. My job is just to tell them how to fix it.
Some very good news is that I was offered a graduate teaching assistant position for a economics professor at Chapman. I actually get to teach some lectures and grade the tests and papers. I am very excited... since I am trying to get more teaching experience on my resume. The crazy part was when I left the interview with the econ teacher another teacher saw me and asked to speak with me. His name is P.K. Shukla and he was named Entrepreneur Teacher of the Year for the entire US. Somehow her got a hold of my resume and saw that I have grant writing experience for the Non-Profit that I am currently working at. He said that he really needs a Graduate Research Assistant and is very interested in me. Well, before I knew it I had to new part-time jobs (a Graduate Teaching Assistant and a Graduate Research Assistant). I couldn't pass up the opportunity, but this will be an additional 20 hours a week to my current full-time work load. And... I am still taking 8 units of Graduate classes.
Yesterday I did an interview for KDOC (Orange County Television) about the price increases at the grocery stores. Yesterday a gallon of milk averaged $5.33 in Orange County. I spoke to the economic reasons why the prices are increases, and gave tips to save at the grocery store. I totally thought they should call Lisa Henderson. She is the best at ways to save.
Today I was an actually guest on the talk show Joy in Our Town on the Trinity Broadcast network. So, it wasn't The View or Oprah, but it was my first ever live-to-tape 30-minute interview. It airs on KTBN on 2-22-08 at 10 am. I don't have the channel, but they gave me a DVD.
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