Running Out Of Time

Jenny, Justin, and Mom

This week has been literally a whirlwind. Normally it is pretty crazy coming into town for various reasons. (since we only do it three times a year) Just making rounds with our family takes a ton of time in of itself. Add that to looking for housing, Thanksgiving, Christmas shopping and the week is sadly over. We have had such a great time and especially thanks to family Doug and I were able to get a lot accomplished without kids. I actually wanted to hook up with friends, but that just didn't happen. Without going into a ton of details I decided to document via photos.

We discovered Oregano's pizookie's thanks to Janet and Aaron. I am afraid this could be dangerous for our family. As you can see Aaron and Taylor were very into it.

Basement homes in Chandler

Housing, housing and more housing. These are the homes that we liked, unfortunately, still a bit pricey and much to far than I would prefer to live. All of the new builds seem to be out in the boon docks!We also decided we would rather build when we are living here. I can't imagine having to do that long distance. Much TOO stressful. I did find a fridge I like. (below)It's a start right?

The fridge I want

Doug "animalized" his burger at In & Out. One of the youth in his class told him about this and so he tried it. As you can see it did not disappoint and had to document it of course!

Randy and Doug

Doug officially has a "real job" lined up starting in August with Dr. Hardison. The light is coming closer and closer each day. We feel blessed to have found a practice and such a great staff of people. Ironically Randy graduated from the same residency program as Doug and no, he doesn't normally dress like this it was his afternoon off.

The Mesa Turkey Trot was yet another success. Jared wanted to run in the 2 mile run with his cousin Aaron. (sadly I forgot my camera so no photos.) I actually cut 5 minutes off my time from last year. I paid for it after the race my legs were like J-E-L-L-O. However, I am not sure if I could run farther than 6.3 miles that would be pretty painful!

dad & mom in front of the goods

While we were "trotting" my in-laws were slaving over the Thanksgiving feast. Coming to the Clouse's you never leave disappointed. The food was fabulous! The photo doesn't give it justice.

Kathy, Dean, Jenny & Doug
Happy Birthday Kathy!

As if it wasn't enough to run a 10K and eat until we were stuffed we decided to cram one more thing into our Thursday agenda. Doug's brother Dean got tickets to the ASU game. (It also happened to be Kathy's b-day) I am afraid we were the jinx being there (since they lost terribly to USC), but it was still a fun to attend. Go Devils!

Debbie's family room

Today was spent power shopping for Christmas. I am happy to report we are finished with our kids and family members. That is a HUGE relief. Tonight we headed over to dinner with my dad Susanne and grandparents then on to Doug's sister Debbie's house. Her tree has always been a favorite of mine, isn't it stunning? I guess that is why she has this store. She is super talented and has agreed to help me decorate our house (if we find one). I say this every time, but it's hard to believe that this week is already over. Tomorrow we are off to say our goodbye's and try and fit all of our stuff in along with our Christmas gifts. Wish me luck!!


good deed: brought Kathy flowers for her b-day.
good deed: finished my Christmas shopping.