buying a home

I am in the process of buying this home, as long as the appraisal comes through okay! House hunting is quite an experience. I have reviewed many MLS listings at http://www.real-estatearizona.com/ --- and thanks to Zac Coplan, my brother-in-law, for putting up with all my days walking through homes! It is an emotional roller-coaster trying to buy a home. Crossing my fingers that all the last minute details work out in my favor! 

Mexico 2012

A couple friends were taking a trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico. I invited myself along for the adventure. It was a much enjoyed vacation. 

First day adventures

Playa del Carmen port -- we took a ferry to Cozumel

Derik and I at Alberto's restaurant

Fantastic seafood right on the beach

Amazing views of the ocean

We rode scooters all around Cozumel

Ocean view from our resort, Hacienda Tres Rios in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Second day

We drove down to Tulum to see the Mayan ruins

Yes, I have an amazing tan line from the prior days activities! 

Mayan temples overlooking the ocean

Derik and me

Me and Steve

Derik and me

Another view of the ruins overlooking the beach --- we almost went swimming, but decided to wait until we returned to Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen restaurant view of the beach 

The guys swam in the beach while I guarded all of our stuff

Afterwards we all got a beach side massage --- amazing

Third day I spent at the resort pool and spa while the guys went scuba diving

This was our night out at the resort

Self portrait on the pier

View of the resort from the pier

Ocean view

Great place for contemplation

Fourth and final day spent at the pool and kayaking down the river

Dinner at Porto Bello, Italian restaurant --- mixed seafood dish, for our last night

Overall, it was a great trip! I enjoyed the resort, the views, the company, the food, and activities! 

visit to Parker, CO

Lego time

Date night with Ian

Spending some time with Ava

Pretending to be a giant spider

Touching the snake! Yuck!

Watching the fishes 

Hiding in the bamboo

More Lego time...

I had a great trip visiting JP, MA, Max, Ian, and Ava. 

the other side of heaven

I was privileged to hear Brother John H. Groberg's experiences of his mission in Tonga this past Sunday evening. It was fun to hear first hand how he felt, the challenges he faced, and the overall love that grew for the gospel and the people of Tonga through serving his mission.

Ashley's night...

Ashley found her man and we got to celebrate her! It was wonderful spending time with our close friends and her adorable mother, sister, and sisters-in-law. What a great night! I sure do love your face, Ash!

northern NY was oh so cold

photo taken by Mat Levine

photo taken by Mat Levine

photo taken by Amie Levine

Brie enjoying her dad's animal book

Mat & Maddy down yonder

Sister's

Brie's naptime

Amie loving the popsicle stick

I visited the Levine's, my sister and her family, in upstate NY. It was so great to spend some quality time with all of them. It was rather cold for my AZ blood, but survived by wearing multiple layers of Amie's clothing. 

We enjoyed walking in the sleet, driving to Old Forge, exploring Lake Julia, and wandering around Black Pond and Wehle Park. 

House Hunt

I have been filling my days off by contemplating/searching for the perfect starter home. Any of you homeowners have any suggestions or advice that you would like to share with me??