Rheslie

The Waters Great!

2011-08-10T13:40:00.000-07:00

Come on over to my new blog! Tales Of Super Plus

You are going to LOVE IT!

We Were On a Break

2011-06-21T19:24:00.000-07:00

Rheslie and this blog are about to take a break. I love this blog, but I am ready to try something new. It's not the blog, it's me, and I have been really busy lately.

I have teamed up with my ultra-hilarious friend Crystal and we've been writing together. It's something we've wanted to do for a long time. And we have a whole fresh batch of ideas and stories we would normally text each other throughout the day. It's been really fun so far, and if you didn't know? Crystal's insanely witty. You'll enjoy her, I promise. We may take on pseudonyms later, but for now, this is us.

Check out the new pen-pal blog here: http://talesofsuperplus.blogspot.com/

Remembering The Colbys

2011-06-15T17:26:00.000-07:00

My first experience with the nomadic culture of Manhattan was the loss of the Colby's. I saw it happen to loads of other people but as the cliche goes (and this post is going to be full of cliches) I never thought it would happen to me.

Erin says she knew we were destined to be best friends because we loved animals, I knew we were going to be friends because we had the same pillows, the exact same style of everything really. Jordan and Rhett were besties from day one because I am pretty sure they are the same person.

Our St George vacation together sealed the deal and we have video to prove it.

Then, like all great love stories ours was star crossed and would end sooner than Rheslie could ever imagine or be prepared for. Jordan was accepted to a dental school in AZ. The state across the country I once called home, my birthplace would cause the death of our friendship.

That's a little dramatic and it's not dead but we don't get to hang out twice a week anymore, and I think we will always be friends, we made enough packs and oaths with one another to stay in touch and share more adventures. We just miss you Colbys and to all my AZ friends, you are SO lucky!

I Go To School...

2011-06-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

and sometimes I even learn things. This week I am loving everything I am gleaning from ol' UOP. My class is called "Communication: Theories and Practice" and the best thing I have learned so far is that I am NOT crazy, but, I have ran into a whole bunch of people who are. That's right, it's you, not me.

The specific communication theory is called "Uncertainty Reduction Theory". It states that communication upon an initial meeting is used to reduce uncertainties between strangers and people are most concerned with increasing predictability in an effort to make sense out of a communication experience. Meaning, all of those conversations about where you grew up, your favorite color or movie and how many brothers and sisters one has are really important and part of our cultural ritual. We need all that superficial conversation so we can feel comfortable enough to build a relationship.

When a person violates cultural ritual by self-disclosing inappropriate information within the initial meeting their behavioral uncertainty will increase and we secretly think, "you are crazy!"

This makes sense to me, when I meet a person for the first time I don't tell them about how I love making music videos about my cats or that I don't just bite my fingernails, I bite my toenails too*. I would alienate everyone! Anyway, all in all I don't mind crazy people, they make my life interesting. Just don't expect me to handle it with grace or class if you show me your appendix scar before you tell me your name.

*these are mostly jokes.

The Gift

2011-06-01T12:30:00.000-07:00

My awesome Bro and his Stellar wife came to visit NYC and it was SO much fun! (More on all those adventures later) ...And Dan, I tried to find a flattering picture of you but EVERY one looked like this so that is all on you.

While we were touring around I came across the perfect little gift for my sister Sarah who is pregnant with a tiny baby boy. Below is Sarah peeking over her baby bump. Isn't she so cute? She is my favorite big sister.

For those who don't know, I get super excited about presents! If they are for me I peek at them early and if they are for someone else I usually tell them about it before they even get it. So, as to not break tradition.... SARAH!!! I got your baby a cute little I Heart NY onesie and it's so cute and I couldn't wait for your baby to wear it so I put it on my cat.

I'm Sorry.

I lint roller-ed it after, hee hee, I hope you still like it!

Gotham Girls

2011-05-23T13:44:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was the Bronx Vs Brooklyn Roller Derby! It was the single most awesome sporting event I have ever been to. There was spitting, violence and just the right amount of cursing!
Here were two of our favorite girls, brutal, frighting and so FAST!! Everything you would want in a woman. I am standing with Bonnie Thunders, she tore it up! No one could touch her. Of course, she could elbow everyone else in the nose as she passed.
A lot of the fun was because we brought along the Browns. New to NYC they, like us, want to do it all before the clock runs out and move from the city to the suburbs.
All the character names of the girls playing were great. A few of my favorites where Haulin Cass, Bunny McBones, and B. Zerk. Which triggered my desire to have my own roller derby name. I am thinking about using Kirsti Ow-ly, or M. Paler...Ugh, those arn't very good. This is hard!

If you ever get a chance to go to a roller derby, DO IT! You wont regret it!

UPDATE: I have to take back what I said about Spiderman the Musical. After convincing my friend to go we found out they COMPLETELY changed the show. When we sat down to talk about the show nothing was the same and all of the fun parts we loved were taken out! BOOO!!! WHY!!!!

Netflix Is Ruining My Academic Career

2011-04-17T16:52:00.001-07:00

I always enjoy blaming someone or something else for my short comings. This week I would like to blame Netflix, I just can't stop watching Netflix so I can write my paper, which is due tomorrow. Like a Siren in the night Netflix calls to me. I, a simple sailor on the S.S. Education, can't resist the haunting song of old Wings, Parks and Rec, and Bones episodes and documentaries about the evolution of food and corrupt businesses. As my ship sinks to the bottom of the sea I feel no remorse, how could I? When Tony Shalhoub keeps cracking me up!

So, what person, place, or thing keeps you procrastinating and stops you from productivity?

Oh Rhett, You Are Hilarious!

2011-04-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Below are three pictures I found saved on my Laptop, I am pretty sure it was either Rhett or one of our garden gnomes. But why? I tried my best to solve the mystery.

This one is actually something we have done...more like we order a salad with pizza though and just completly ignore it. Nutrition is a waste of money sometimes. We can't be the only people to let veggies go bad in the fridge while baked goods don't even get a chance to cool before they are eaten right?

GHAH Ha ha ha...This is a bride on an Air Chair, Never heard of air chairs? Us either until we met the Hardies. Why do the Hardies know so much about them? You'll have to ask them. Now, why did Rhett save this particular air chair picture? Does he want to renew our vows on air chairs? I hope so! Eep!

This picture just makes me feel smarter for having read it. I feel like it answered all the dino Q's I ever had. Rhett must have felt the same and wanted to make sure I saw it.

URBAN DICTIONARY: L-BOMB

2011-04-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

This is a short by my co-worker Gary. I thought it was cute!

Super Anniversary

2011-03-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

I am pretty sure I have told everyone who reads this blog how much I LOVED the Spiderman Broadway Musical. In case you forgot, it is SO GOOD!!!! Go see it. It's amazing and fun and I don't know why there are so many haters out there.

I knew Spiderman was for us the second I saw the sign. Because, here is the thing about Rheslie, we just want to have a fun time,and go to fun activities, not intellectual, not time-honored, and nothing high class would draw us in.

When we were just dating we had an epiphany weekend. On a Friday we went to a monster truck rally and LOVED it! On Saturday we went to The Nutcracker and almost DIED of boredom. I'm not saying that The Nutcracker isn't valuable entertainment, I'm just saying Rheslie is low brow and the lower the better.

Rhett has made all my favorite things possible, I seriously wouldn't do so many fun things if I wasn't married to Rhett who never says no to fun. Here are some of my favorite Johnson activities.

Renaissance Festivals
Kayaking
Coney Island Hot Dog Eating Contest
Walking Around Walgreens and Buying Weird Stuff
Hotel Stays
Watching Top Shot
Going To the Shooting Range
Bike Rides
Ostrich Farm Visit
Farris Wheels
Magic Shows
Brunch
Cruises
Concerts

Thanks Rhett, Happy Anniversary!

Days Of Thunder

2011-03-21T07:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah, this weekend was like that...Minus Tom Cruise!

Where to begin?!?!? Well, for those who do not know I am the Cub Master (I like to use "Master" because it makes me feel powerful and like I have magic powers!) But, some might call me the Den Mother (see, not as fun.)

For WEEKS our Cub Pack has been working on building their very own car to be raced at the Manhattan Pinewood Derby. One parent put it best when they leaned over to me and whispered "Weeks of work for a few seconds of racing." Those few seconds were the CrAziEsT I have ever been a part of!

Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the event!

Love Hate Relationship

2011-03-13T13:13:00.001-07:00

While chatting with my friend Erin on the Subway train headed back uptown to our homes she talked to me about how much she is going to miss NYC when she leaves in a few months to support her husband with his education to become a dentist in AZ. (That’s right AZ friends and family, one of the loveliest families I have ever known is going to be right in your neighborhood! HANG OUT WITH THEM! You won’t regret it.)

Back in the subway car we continued our conversation and I blurted out. “I think I am done with New York.”

“Take it back! Be grateful you get to live in this city!” Erin replied.

She was right of course, I should be grateful to live in a place that offers so much! (More on that in a second) I have just been so worn out from work, school, a demanding calling at church, maintaining a social life, and finding time with my husband who is facing an even busier schedule than I am.All of these pressures for me are magnified by the difficulties that come with living inManhattan, the cold winter, the amount of time it takes to do something that was once so easy, like shopping or visiting a friend. The constant worry of claiming space, whether on a train, sidewalk, or apartment…The list of anxieties and struggles could go on and on.

On the other side of the pendulum swing are all the great things about NYC that have made life in the City so much fun. These last few weeks have been great; I get to hang out with brilliant women who consider me a friend. I went to a taping of the Regis and Kelly show. I saw the off Broadway musical “Golf.” Last night I went to a presentation from an intelligent Dr.who specializes in Individual and Couples Counseling. The topic was LDS women & Human Intimacy. She spoke to us about sex, dependency, autonomy, and how to develop better relationships with our partner.

Where else could I have such a diverse group of activities all in a row?So New York, I am going to try to appreciate you once again, the hint of spring might just be enough to help me remember why I love you.

(My Proof I went to Regis and Kelly)

I don't know what it is about Donald Trump in person but...I totally understand why he gets those hot chicks!

Abigail Breslin, Cute, but at this point I was still thinking about Donald.

Only The Classics

2011-02-22T12:40:00.000-08:00

This Valentines lacked all the romantic elements a girl usually asks for. I don't really know how it happened. Rhett was busy, I was lazy, it just didn't happen. But I can't complain, I spent the day roaming the city in a super nice bus with a bunch of super nice friends!

My work was opening a brand new tour all about Classic TV and Movies around NYC ! I gathered as many people as I could to go with me and we rocked that tour! We even had a special guest on the tour. Joyce Randolph, from the TV Show The Honeymooners.

She is everything I want to be as I add years onto my life. She is pretty, classy, smart, sweet, and has an apartment on Central Park West. We instantly clicked.

I seriously had such a great time on this tour! I learned all sorts of history about the city and I laughed the whole day with Friends! WOOT! for Valentines Day!PS - Tony Horton is awesome...super nuts...but awesome!

Beard Bash and Stache Fest!

2011-02-13T14:12:00.000-08:00

Where: Some Dive Bar in a shady part of Brooklyn

When: Monday Night LATE!

Who: Anyone with a love for Facial hair! (Hipsters encouraged to come)

Why: I continually ask Rhett to grow a mustache and he always says "no!" I try and remind him how lucky he is that his wife wants him to have facial hair but he just doesn't seem to care. So, I had to travel out to Brooklyn just to see a few. It didn't disappoint!

Below are some of the stars of the festival! It's nice they get appreciated at least once a year for all their hard work.

My GIRLS!!! WOOT WOOT!

Notice our awesome mustaches we grew out for the night. We look good right?

A few Friends I made!

P.S. My favorite thing about New York right now is my nice warm apartment.

¡Feliz Cumpleaños!

2011-01-26T10:39:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where to begin! Rhett did such an AMAZING thing for me and I am SO in love with him for it. He threw me a Super AWESOME surprise party and all these people I loved where there and Rhett had bought all these crazy decorations and sombreros and mustaches and even fiesta serving trays etc. etc. My favorite Rhett quote was "If I thought to myself, 'I would never buy this' I knew I had to have it." That is how I ended up with a sponge bob pinata and a margarita glass that lit up.

(Hi Abbs! I totally stole this picture from you! Still love me.)

I do want to send out a big GIANT thank you to everyone that made my Birthday so stellar and a super plus thank you to Abbie who Was Rhett's right hand gal. We both sing your praise constantly.

Thanks for the Pics Anna! I don't know where Rhett put all of ours but I got the blogging bug so yours saved the day!

The Winner - Story # 3

2011-01-19T15:22:00.001-08:00

It was a beautiful day in NYC, one of those days that you dream about when the city has become colder than an elf armpit. I was strolling around the Fort Tryon wilderness with Rhett on our way to the Medieval Festival. Fort Tryon has been the host of the Medieval Festival for years now because of the old and magical feel the park provides. As we walked up a hill towards all of the festival I began to see a bow staff here and a man in leggings there. It was sparse at first but the number of Robin Hood inspired characters grew as I marched closer to the top of the hill. I could spend hours writing about all the things I saw, tasted, smelled, and heard. But this post isn't about the wonderful things that happened; this post is about what a person does when they see someone they love being picked on and what it tells you about who you are as a person. Kind of like learning everything about a guy when you watch him play church basketball.

We made our way to the portable thrown together stadium where a couple was demonstrating their skills in hawk flying…Is there a term for that? Anyway, we found some empty seats and cheered on with the rest of the crowd.

A cold breeze that chilled me to the bones swooped up the bleachers. I looked down and running up the steps was a throng of children. I shivered and held my breath as they approached. I have been told in the past that they are like T-Rex's and if you stay very still they won't be able to see you, (they were wrong). They surrounded Rhett and I and the one little girl who seemed to be the leader glared right at Rhett. "He stole our seat" she shrilled "That guy is a jerk for stealing our Seat! What a Jerk"

This went on and on till I couldn't take it anymore! I leaned forward so I could look her straight in the eyes. Blind with the anger I shouted back at her. "HEY!!! IT'S NOT LIKE YOUR NAME'S ON IT!"

Ghah! I am so lame! But I was just so protective of Rhett. Can you really blame me for losing my cool? Plus, my fourth grader response worked. The rotten little girl retreated and took the little band of bleacher bullies along with her.

And everyone lived happily ever after.

Accounting Schmiccounting

2010-10-15T17:37:00.000-07:00

I really love blogging but I am in the Accounting class and it is trying to kill me. Not just kind of kill me but Super kill me. So I might not be around till the end of November.

I listed three of the topics that I don't want to forget about plus, I also thought you guys could tell me which one you would like to hear first, I'm talken the second I'm done with this dumb class.

1. New Apartment - Pictures, and how I broke up with my old apartment

2. Price is Right - I heard Bob Barker say a really bad word. (Requested by Cryzl)

3. Kids are Jerks - Why I got in a fight with a cute little girl at the park.

So, what do you think? The power is in your hands where it should be. All of you are so smart, good looking, cool and stellar!

If I Were A Vampire I Would Be A Weekend

2010-09-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Back in August my stellar friend Abbie posted this on facebook.

I was instantly intrigued. What is a vampire weekend? Is it like a festival? Like a mini Comic Con specializing in Vampire fun? Would there be people like Edward there?

So, on all of those assumptions I said "YES! Yes, Abbie I want to dress up like a vampire and buy novelty fangs and get my picture taken with a Bella look-alike!"

What does that say about me? WHO AM I!?! later, Abbie clarified that Vampire Weekend was the name of an awesome band and she burned me a CD. (she is so nice!) We had a great time! read all about it HERE on Abbie's blog!

These guys seriously rock. SERIOUSLY!

2010-09-20T05:00:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday Rhett took the day off of work so we could go to the San Gennnaro Festival down in Little Italy. It was the best surprise of all time! Our first stop was the Cannoli eating contest. Rheslie LOVES eating competitions! We love it! Is that too weird? It's just so exciting, impossible and gross all at the same time.

In six minutes the winner ate 13 cannolis. These were big ol' cannolis too, not baby wimpy cannolis, giant scary cannolis. Check out other pictures from the event HERE. I found this picture of the event on the website. Can you find us?

See how happy I am!

If you are loving this as much as I did you can hear all about the Coney Island Hot dog Eating Contest on Rhett's blog. I think I was a little embarrassed at the beginning of this post about how much fun I have at these contests but I just made the command decision to be a proud supporter of eating contests! Haters gonna hate right?

This guy is AWESOME! His name is Gianni Russo and he played Carlo Rizzi in The Godfather. He was so nice and fun and dressed like a dream! He calls himself the unofficial mayor of Little Italy. Plus, BONUS! You can look at his website and sign up for his newsletter HERE. You know you want too.

The rest of the afternoon was spent going around to all the booths and eating all sorts of fun Italian treats like spaghetti and meatballs, cannolis, and my two favorites calamari, and bruschetta.

YUM-O!

Oh, and Rhett played a carnival game to win me a stuffed animal. Isn't he SO romantic! It doesn't matter that he didn't win. I just like him for trying!

Please Like Me…I Have Pictures of Cats

2010-09-09T20:32:00.001-07:00

I spent Labor Day hanging out at the park with people from my church, eating hummus and playing games. (yeah, no, I didn't play the games but Rhett did!) While I was there my awesome plus friend Abbie came with her family. I really like her kids for loads of reasons...just check her blog and look at how cute they are. However, sometimes Abbie's kids, Eli and Audrey forget how much they like me! Because of my obsessive need to have people and or kids like me I started laying on all the compliments I could think of. When that didn't work I tried giving them things to play with and when that didn't work I knew I had to pull out the big guns! "Hey guys, want to see pictures of my kitties?"

They were hooked. All I had to do was reel them in with awesome phone pictures. As I started the kitten show I couldn't believe how many dumb pictures of Whicket and Kelly Clarkson I actually had on my phone. It was ridiculous and embarrassing. I mean Eli and Audrey had no idea how pathetic it was so that's good, but inside I felt my inner cat lady creeping closer to the surface. All I need is to stop washing my hair and get a big cane that I can shake in the air when little hoodlums get to close to my yard.

Now...BEHOLD... The Cats! In ALL their glory!

(This isn't even all the pictures that were on my phone.) *Sigh* at least I will save on shampoo.

I Am Bruce Lee

2010-08-30T12:30:00.001-07:00

One late night back in Arizona I was on the way to the gym and as I stepped out of my house and shut the door I heard something around the corner. I froze in thought. "Was it my husband coming home from his meeting early? Was it my friend Tara who was supposed to meet me at the gym? Was it a guy wearing a hockey mask wielding an ax?"

My imagination always leans closer towards someone planning my demise. But I tried to push the thought from my mind as I fumbled with my keys to lock the front door. As I cut myself off from personal sanctuary scarier scenarios plaid through my mind and as I stood in the dark listening I continued to hear something around the corner waiting. I started to panic and decided I had to do something. My "something" was the worst "something" ever used to ward off an attacker.

I started hopping... I hopped as high as I could while lifting my arms up and down above my head with fingers jazzed. I also yelled "Hiya, Hiya, Hiya," over and over again. As I jumped diagonally across my lawn like this I came face to face with the blood thirsty attacker who scared the dignity out of me.

It was my neighbor walking his dog. He just stood there staring at me while his dog barked and ran in circles out of control. All I could do was apologize and run to my car and never look back.

Now I live in New York and it occurs to me that this defense tactic didn't work then and it probably won't work now where I might actually need it. Who wants to take karate lessons with me?

Three Flights Later...

2010-08-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

I landed in Tucson Arizona. and yeah, I had to take three planes to get there. THREE! the number of times I had to face my fragile mortality in one day starting at 6:00am. blarg, but it was so worth it when I got to see the cutest grandparents EVER!

Say Hello to My Grandpa and Grandma Young, If you ever get a chance to visit them they will welcome you with lots of hugs. Then they will tell you how pretty you are and they think your bangs are just the greatest. Then you will be whisked into the kitchen where there will be a smorgasbord of treats and tasties waiting for you to garble up! They will continue to tell you how great you are and then take you out back to see something spectacular.

BHAH HA HA HA!!! These mini cows are the best things that has ever happened in my life! I don't know if you can tell how small they are from the picture but if you know prickly pear cactus you will know they are a short cactus. what a bad measurement tool, sorry. But trust me bloggies these little guys will "moooo-ve" into your heart the second you meet them. (I am not proud of that joke, but to be honest, I am.)

I got around town hanging out with my best travel buddies Daniel and Valarie, Another really cute couple taking second place to Grandma and Grandpa. They picked me up from the airport and drove me to anything and everything. Oh, and they let me drive!

How many of you recognize the Mayor McCheese spin ride from Mc Donald's? Isn't it AWESOME! My dad procured this from Mc-D's a long time ago and gave it to my grandparents who always have it set up and ready to play with. I'm not going to lie, all of your inner child's should be super jealous.

But spinning wasn't the only reason I went to AZ. I was there to see my friend Tara(left) get married to her hunk Jarom and to also stare lovingly at my friend Crystal(right) as long as possibly could.

I really like Tara and her sister Lacie, they are nice with curly hair. What more could a girl ask for?

The rest of my time was spent hanging out with my family celebrating Abbey's Birthday!

My lovely and talented sister made that tutu and she promised to make me three. Two for my cats and one for Rhett. Best sister ever right?!?! Happy Birthday Abbey! You are the coolest!

Clara and Bradley are the cutest little cousin friends. Bradley is the sweetest and Clara is a little wicked and cunning which reminds me of me, so she has a special place in my heart.

If you made it down to the end of this post you are in for a very special treat. BEHOLD!!! The first place Leslie lived after she moved out of her parents house! Trailer #4, A.K.A. The Fort.

And no, that bottom picture hasn't been distorted in any way, that is just the way it leans. This disaster of a trailer was equal to the first line in the book "A Tale of Two Cities" Sure it was full of rats, roaches, and the heater or cooler never worked. But, this is where I learned to be independent. had my first crush, learned to go to church on my own, failed my first class, made awesome friends, won strongest woman in the world, Saran wrapped people to a trees. and so so so so much more.

Watercolor For Kids

2010-08-08T19:46:00.000-07:00

I kind of feel like a nerd putting these up here but I kind of love why I made them. It's also a part of my life that I don't think a lot of people know about. I took art all four years of high school and I just continued doing it on my own. I have no idea how to properly use watercolor because my small town art teacher didn't really know how to properly use watercolor. So I just do it the wrong way.

The first painting is for my friend Tara. She is getting married this weekend and she had asked me to paint her something in New York months ago. One night I was walking to the temple and the American Folk Art Museum next door had a pair of carved wooden angel wings that reminded me of Tara, classic, beautiful, everything wonderful. After I painted the wings I kept feeling like I needed to somehow add a little Leslie, something hot pink or bright yellow... and there you have it. I really hope you like it Tara! This is my Mini Cow painting. My Grandpa recently procured himself a bunch of miniature cows, (did anyone know those existed? Because I sure didn't) and I just got a huge kick out of it and I went around talking about them for weeks!!! Then, I finally had to paint one...see? he is so mini the flowers are taller than him. Bhah ha ha ha ha, I love mini cows they are hilarious and cute!

I Really Like My New Job

2010-08-01T20:01:00.000-07:00

I think this picture pretty much sums up all the happy and wonderful feelings I have about my new job.
I just finished up my first week at On Location Tours and I really like it. The people there are wonderful and I like the office and the location and that I get to continue to work in tourism.

I just feel very grateful for the opportunity. My friend Anna gave an amazing lesson on it today and she just posted some amazing quotes on her blog. Click HERE to check it out.

The Spy Who Loved Me

2010-07-25T19:36:00.000-07:00

I deal with a condition called "chronic fear of things sneaking up behind me" or "CFOTSUBM." This illness can affect anyone, however it is usually brought on by a traumatic experience in a person's youth.

I can remember the experience like it happened yesterday. I was 10yrs old and I was sitting on my couch eating fruity pebbles. I turned on the TV and started watching America's Most Wanted. They featured a story about a man who was riding his bike when out of nowhere a truck drove up behind him with a 2X4 and hit the guy in the BACK OF THE HEAD!!! AAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!!
After that I couldn't ride my bike down the street without looking behind myself every 2 secs. Other side affects began to appear, I could never walk in front of a shopping cart and walking though revolving doors is almost impossible...It's been pretty rough on me and on those that are close to me.

Rhett recently gave me a prize that brought back a glimmer of hope that I could lead a normal life. They are called "Spy Glasses" and they are amazing! Each lens has a reflective side that allows you to see what is going on behind you at all times.

I love them so much! It was such a fun and happy present and I am going to be sporting these things around NYC as soon as possible! Thanks for the present Rhett! Thanks for loving me, CFOTSUBM and all!

Pressing Engagement

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

Rhett and I were invited to the press release viewing of the movie "Dinner For Scmucks".

I have always liked Paul Rudd since I saw him in Clueless, and I always thought he would make a great leading man and he does a cute job in this movie...however... My favorite part was the supporting cast, a bunch of super funny and talented people . Jermaine Clement, Lucy Punch, Chris O'Dowd, David Williams. All geniuses.

Anyway, it was a funny movie but not something I would ever take my mother to see. Ye have been warned.

What I Saw Today

2010-07-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

Rhe loves to go to the movies, Slie hates it. But Slie loves Rhe so she goes with him every once and a while. We went and saw Knight and Day and it was super plus fun! I don't know why people aren't going to it? Maybe peoples movie budgets have been spent on toys and vampires?

Then we went walking around searching for food. I love scavenging neighborhoods finding secret dives that have never had a website, have never been rated by Zagats, have never been anywhere else in the world. It makes me feel special and like a champion treasure hunter.

Cafe Saint Honore was our trophy and it was amazing! Go go go...GO! This cute french woman runs the place and my grilled eggplant and pine nut pesto sandwich was amazing. Rhett's had some kind of magical bacon on his. Plus they have $1 slices of Pizza.

Then we walked around Central Park because I hadn't seen Bethesda Fountain running yet. pretty.

Fun wedding! and right before this, I didn't get a picture, a guy proposed to his girl and everyone was cheering! It was fun to see all the love.

The bubble guy was around and all the kids were foaming at the mouth to pop those bubbles. The guy kept asking them to back up but they couldn't, they just couldn't! It was all their little hearts wanted and their minds were so set on it. You could see the madness in their eyes. That being said, they were still pretty cute!

Last Minute Cruise

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

I got a call from Rhett. "Leslie, I found a really cheap cruise that leaves from NYC in a week and hey, it's my birthday. What do you think?"

"I think I need to go buy a SWIMSUIT!!!!"

Off we went on a week cruise to the Caribbean. Our first stop was Florida...I think both Rhett and I were a little bummed that our first stop was in the US and not on some exotic island.

HOWEVER, it might have been our favorite stop! We road on air boats through a swamp looking for alligators and talking on cool headsets. I felt like Maverick, which makes Rhett Goose...or does that make him Charlie?
Then we got to hold alligators, snakes and even a tarantella...freaking tarantella. *shiver*

Next stop was Stirrup Cay in the Berry Islands for some snorkeling. It was beautiful. A little different looking than the Hudson.

Then we were off to Nassau Bahamas for some super segway fun! We went all over and around these botanical gardens and to this really old military fort. Our tour guide was awesome because he took us to this big open Field and let us race around and practice doing tricks! I really really need to own my own segway now. They are the only way to travel.

Some of our on board entertainment included Jean Pierre the comedic Magician. He was pretty awesome and mostly I liked him because he knew Neil Patrick Harris.

A group from Second City also preformed on the ship. I can't begin to tell you how funny they were. The Tina Fey girl was a genius. Maybe its something about those glasses that make girls comedic gold?What is with my crazy face?

Summer Solstice

2010-06-23T08:07:00.000-07:00

Monday was the longest day of the year! Unless you count the day Rhett made me watch the entire Rambo series...Blarg.

New York celebrated it by hosting a Yoga session in the middle of time square. They called it "Mind Over Madness" which was appropriate because Time Square is the WORST!!!! People are psychos and everything is so loud and flashy.

I had such a great time. there were tons and tons of people. Apparently 5,000 yoga-ers registered for it and maybe this sounds dumb but I really felt like we were a big team, all of us just trying to NOT go crazy!

I like yoga, I like the colorful mats, I like that I can workout barefoot, and I like that I can practice being bendy.

Sacred Grove

2010-06-20T17:37:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago we headed up to Palmyra with my bestie's Amy and Brandon. I loved everything about it. I have a whole list of reasons. I will only list the top three.

(Leaf from the Sacred Grove)

#3. Big blue open Sky's and lots of pretty nature. Spending most of my time on a concrete island with no view of anything in the sky can get a little grey.

#2. Learning. I learned about the lives responsible for the restoration, where and how they lived and most importantly what they sacrificed. We often refer to Joseph Smith as a martyr, I learned that his entire family and all his friends were martyrs. They gave their lives for the things they knew were true.

#1. Feeling the spirit of the Sacred grove. Walking where God and Jesus Christ appeared was wonderful and peaceful. I felt the same way I feel when I am on temple grounds.

I am blessed.

Clash of the Johnsons

2010-06-01T11:38:00.000-07:00

As it turns out The Kraken has moved to New York and is living in the apartment above me. That's right, the mythical creature that used to live on the costs of Norway and Iceland has decided that it needed a change of pace and decided to move to Manhattan, I don't know why, maybe the Cloverfeild monster told him the weather was nice?

Every Saturday morning, EARLY morning, they release the Kraken and let it run around the apartment and play fetch and drop bowling balls and run in circles and DRIVE ME CRAZY!

I took some pictures of the Kraken around town to prove I am not making any of this up. So feel bad for me people, feel bad that I don't get to sleep in on Saturdays.

Kraken visiting the Statue of Liberty

Kraken enjoying a Sabrett hot dog in Central Park

Kraken rocken an "I Heart NY" shirt!

Cameron. You realize if we played by the rules right now we'd be in gym?

2010-05-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

Chicago is SO much more fun than being in gym. Ferris really knew what he was talking about. This post is a bunch of random things I learned about the city. I learned a ton more than mentioned and actually some of the mentioned may be made up...who knows, I'm just repeating what they told me!

"Ferris Bullers Day Off" is deffo one of my favorite movies of all time. while taking a double decker bus tour I found out that the parade scene was filmed gorilla style...meaning, no one knew they were filming, there was a big Polish parade going on so Matthew and some of the cast and crew went down there and just winged it. Even the scene where he jumped on the float and started singing was improv. WOW, he is a brave kid!

"While You Were Sleeping" was also filmed in Chicago and this is Peters building! The scene with the cat was also a real apartment in the building.

The first building is Trump tower and the triangle building is Chicago's prison.* All of those slats are only a few inches wide. Since the building was in the middle of the city they didn't want to put in bars. The very top is where the prisoners get there outside time.

* Lil Wayne isn't actually in this prison. I don't know where he actually is.

When Chicago started getting a little bigger people started to move out of the city and into the suburbs. The city decided to build these towers in an effort to keep people from leaving. These buildings came fully equipped with grocery stores, a bowling ally, theater, parking and anything else you might need. The buildings were also the inspiration behind The Jetsons cartoon home.

While visiting Chicago Walt Disney saw this castle like tower and designed Cinderellas castle after it. The tower in Chicago was built to hide a giant water pump that people thought was ugly.

How great is this building? It's balcony's were designed to make the building look like the waves in Lake Michigan. (which is HUGE by the way, It looks like the ocean, you guys probably already knew that but I had no idea how BIG it was!)

Sears Tower, It's a 108 story building. It's currently the tallest building in The U.S. It can sway up to 6 inches because of the wind. It's pretty crazy up there. Add in the Sky Decks they installed, which are clear plastic boxes you can walk out on and look below you like you are floating above the city.

I felt that feeling when you are in a car driving up a mountain and you look out the window and there is a cliff on your side and you see straight down and your tummy flips a little bit. You know that feeling? EVERYONE should do it. It's awesome!

PS. Didn't think I would have my picture taken. I was all by myself and plus I didn't know anyone in Chicago.

Whats Another Word For Clumsy?

2010-05-10T09:05:00.000-07:00

Awkward, lumbering, ham-fisted, bumbling, blundering, maladroit, inept!

I DROPPED MY PHONE!!!! I dropped my phone in this gross open drain that is down in the basement of my apartment building. GLARB!!!!! Now it stinks and who knows if it works. It's sitting on my counter right now drying.

Rhett, I'm sorry you have to find out this way. (he was going to sale it on ebay.)

I am going to make you tacos.

I also broke a plate and busted our laundry basket today.

Before Jonas

2010-05-03T11:48:00.000-07:00

While my SPBFF Crystal was in town we went to The Letterman Show and it was pretty fun and pretty easy to get tickets.

The biggest surprise was how much I like Hanson now. Is that embarrassing? Before you say yes, check out their performance, I think they might have gotten better with age, like a fine wine, or expensive cheese.

Home

2010-04-14T08:28:00.000-07:00

I really love you New York...But sometimes I miss home. This is my front yard back in Thatcher. The Youngs are pretty Hot too!

Funny Girl, Minus Barbra Streisand

2010-04-05T12:32:00.000-07:00

My cute fun friend Orinda came to visit me in NY on her spring break. Sorry New York for taking up all of her time while she was here but she was my friend first!
Here we are enjoying a super awesome Central Park hot dog. Those food carts around New York are always there for you when you need them.
Did you know you can rent row boats in Central Park? I sure didn't, we just happened upon them and took one for a spin. We rocked at rowing that boat by the way.
Then we went to the Broadway show "A Little Night Music." Super cute, Angela Lansbury is in the show also and she was super Sassy...Watch out Betty White! Catherine Zeta Jones was also in it, she was not about taking pictures but she signed a few autographs, I would like to think she wanted to get home to her kids.
We also won the lottery...Not the creepy death lottery everyone had to read about in middle school. The fun, happy, win tickets to "In The Heights" Lottery. I LOVED this play and I don't think I am just being partial because I live in The Heights because Orinda loved it too and she lives in St. Johns AZ. After the show I met Corbin Bleu.

Seriously scary...seriously. (shiver)

I Sounded A Little Like Paul Revere

2010-03-31T07:55:00.000-07:00

"My family is coming! My family is coming!" That is all I would say for the weeks leading up to my cutest family coming to visit me in New York! See, aren't they fun? Don't you wish you could have ran around NY with them for a week?

I was really glad that my family was able to see where I live in the Heights because how many people get to experience anything above the top of central park when they come to Manhattan? They would miss things like Fairway Market and Dino BBQ (get the fried green tomato's...WOW!)
Has anyone else heard of The Chip Shop? It's in Brooklyn, I ADORE Brooklyn! Apparently Glen Beck featured this little dive on his show and my father had to eat there while he was here. It's hilarious and lots of fun to visit. The Sheppard's Pie is amazing and the fish and chips were great! Rhett was a little more adventurous and got the fried pizza and Mac&cheese. Not so good! Fried Twix however will probably change your life!
My father also decided that he would take pictures with every member of New York's Finest that he saw. One of these pictures is not like the others...Can you tell which one it is? (I loved this game in Highlights)

Lost in the forever maze of the subway

Top of The Empire State Building

Connie wandering off in Central Park...This picture kind of reminds me of the movie "Watcher in the Woods" That movie is AWESOME! Nerak! Bhah, I just scared myself a little.
Took the podium tour of the Statue of the Liberty. Super cool and learned all kinds of history. My mom and I went to West Side Story. Loved it! I cried into my program the whole second act and black ink got on my face. After the show we got pictures with Tony. We only had Rhett's Blackberry and my cutest mom ever had a little trouble with the zoom! Mom seriously, I love how my picture turned out!

Those were some of the highlights of Leslie's Family fun!... So other family that didn't come...COME!!!! I am so much fun!!!

I hope you had fun little family! I know I did!

Sometimes It's Not Just A Bus

2010-03-12T16:27:00.000-08:00

I am helping out with a company called Forte Festivals. They bring band/orchestra kids from around the country to play their instruments. Thursday I met with their Bus driver to pick up all of the kids from JFK. I thought it was just another bus with another driver....I was SO wrong!

Above is Cedric, He was President Obama's bus driver during his campaign. Below is me sitting where President Obama sat...Or maybe a secret service guy, and maybe the secret service guy liked the retro chair design as much as I did...(don't be surprised if I end up with a couch upholstered exactly the same!)

I FOUND IT!

2010-03-05T06:30:00.000-08:00

Anyone remember Cera from the movie "Land Before Time"? She was awesome right? Well, there is a scene where she thinks she finds the Dino Promise Land and she sings this little "I FOUND IT" song.
Well, these little Liquorices are the human equivalent of a Dino Promise Land and I found them and now anyone who reads this should also go find them and make them a part of your family.

YARNIGANS

2010-02-25T10:54:00.000-08:00

SO, I have a super talented friend here in New York, Her name is Cris and she can knit scarves...WHAT! OoH! She is also really nice and agreed to teach me how, so we went to China Town to procure ourselves some yarn.

New York... How are you so cute and interesting all of the time? This was carved onto the step of an old closed down theater on the way to the store.

P&S Fabrics and Crafts was great, tons of fabrics and yarns and buttons and other things people who are craftier then I am would be happy to know about. Something I was really happy about was all the Tulle. I love tulle and I need to pre-appoligize to any future daughters I have because they are going to be covered in tulle, also ribbons, flowers, puffed sleeves...etc. ect.

(yup that's me.)

After the yarn buying we found a little place called Billy's Bakery So good, so cute. Get the pumpkin cupcakes. They are yummy...oh and GREAT hot coco!

Speaking of cupcakes, I was going visiting teaching that night and I had made my own mini cupcakes. As I was walking out the door I dropped them...GHAH! It was so sad. Rhett thought it was hilarious.

Documentery Madness

2010-02-22T20:24:00.000-08:00

If I could eat a documentary I would. Then they would make a documentary about it. If I could make a blanket of documentaries I would. There probably wouldn't be a documentary about it but I think it would make a great conversation piece.

I just love documentaries right now. Here are my four favorite I have seen.

The Business of Being Born...GHAH! I love love love talking about birth. I've never done it but I love hearing other peoples stories. This D made me laugh cry and scream! It was really great to learn about birth from another perspective.

The Future of Food was crazy and while I know it was really one sided...It did a really great job scaring me into buying organic for the next few shopping trips. If you are sleeping really well at night and need something to worry about this is a good one to watch!

Pageant, oh Pageant... you pulled my little heart strings. All about the Miss Gay America and the men who enter. These men work so extremely, incredibly, soul achingly hard to win this competition.

The guy that hosts Bigger Faster Stronger reminds me of my brothers. He is super funny, cute, and sweet. (Hi brothers!) He takes a no opinion approach to steroids and just tells stories and in the end you might not think steroids are that big of a deal...Of course now I play a little game called "point out people maybe on steroids" It's almost as fun as "are those real boobs?"

Caution : Yield To Horses

2010-02-14T15:33:00.000-08:00

This Valentines I was in charge of activities and I took that assignment seriously. I happened upon this little jem Bronx Equestrian Center hidden away in the upper upper Bronx. UPPER BRONX! It took forever to get there but it was totally and insanely worth it.

Horseback riding in the snow is something I had never done. The park is so large that I felt like I was in a Colorado forest. Rhett and I were accompanied by a guide named Benny. We were the only three people for dozens of feet. NY is so crowded it was nice to feel alone for a little while.

My Horse's name was Joey. He was hilariously lathargic. Rhett's horse was named Martin and he was a super spaz!

Is it too late to ask my parents for a pony?

Benny was really fun! He took this picture of us above and then we chilled with him for a little while inside to thaw out before we headed out again to get on the bus.

After Horseback riding I took Rhett to a resturaunt called BRGR for two reasons. 1.) I wanted to take him to a guy place. 2.) Rhett watched this documentary about home corn fed beef is bad for the cows and bad for the people. BRGR only uses grass fed beef.

Rhett got a kick out of it which was my goal, the sweet potato fries were an added bonus. YUMMY! (Even if the beef is grass fed nothing about this meal was good for you...obviously, that is why it was so good!)

(This picture is for you Cryz. Enjoy!)

When we got back flowers were waiting for me at the door! Ooooohhh....Best Husband Ever!

Hooray for Valentines Day! We had a blast!

I Live Where?

2010-02-09T13:10:00.001-08:00

I know I live in New York but it still seems really REALLY strange. I feel like a tourist most of the time and I am intensely aware that I am from Arizona ALL of the time. Sometimes I feel like I somewhat fit in, like when someone asks me for directions and I can answer the question. "Oh yeah lady the 1 stops at 86Th." - I'm a pro, WHAT!

Other times I feel like a lame-O outsider. For example, I was getting on the bus and I put my metro pass in the wrong way and the driver flipped it around for me and said "Welcome to New York." -Ooh...That made me so sad...then mad...then sad again.

Last week I finally felt like "Okay, this is not just some long extended trip." Because, I went to the dentist! That is a pretty committed thing to do in the town you live in right? This isn't just a fling. NY and I are in love and I am sticking around for a while!

Double Date

2010-01-24T19:00:00.000-08:00

Saturday was stellar because I had two dates. The first was with Rhett (the financial mastermind member of Rheslie) I asked Rhett on a date the night before because I wanted to take him to Sam's Saigon Banh Mi. It is home to the best French/Vietnamese sandwiches in New York City. I featured this Dive before and I never stopped thinking about it. Every blog post, every conversation and every dream since has been haunted by this sandwich. Did I ask Rhett for selfish reasons? Who am I to say?

After , we hopped over to Kee's Chocolates and tried little heaven drops with flavors like Honey Saffron, Lavender, and Yuzu (a Japanese citrus fruit) A woman in our ward is a culinary artist there. One more reason I love this ward.
While Rhett and I were walking around the lower east side we ran across a psychic. Actually, there is an alarming amount of psychic businesses flourishing in the lower east side. I have wanted to get my palm read for a long time and Rhett loves me so we spent the money on it. Abbie knows how much it cost...no one else should Eek!

Here are some things I learned, I am going to live till my late 80's, I should work with children and I should write, Mom, you are stressed but it is going to be okay. I am going to have a total of three kids and two are going to be twins! WHOO HOO!!!!

Rhett and I had a super plus great time and then I met Abbie for dinner, I found this place called Edgars Cafe, It is known for being the location of Edgar Allen Poe's Home and where he wrote The Raven. It had super great sandwiches (I heart sandwiches) and super AMAZING deserts A-MAZ-ING! Plus an added bonus, it was decorated a little spooky.

Abbie, thanks so much for coming with me!!! You make me happy I moved here.

Please Give It Back

2010-01-18T19:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Martin Luther King Jr Day!

Rhett and I decided we would celebrate by taking our newly acquired bikes out for a spin today since it was AMAZING weather.

We had a great little time and I made Rhett stop so I could take these pictures of our maiden voyage.

As we started up the peddling again Rhett realized his wallet had fallen out of his pocket...We spent the rest of our ride looking for it only to go home empty handed and an afternoon full of canceling cards..."Please New York, we are sorry we were careless, we promise we won't do it again. Please give it back."

After all the calls Rhett and I watched Beverly Hills Ninja and it was surprisingly hilarious and ol' Chris made us feel happy again! Thanks buddy, wish you were here!

This is the Steeple...

2010-01-18T10:39:00.000-08:00

The Inwood First Ward is Amazing. I don't know how to describe the people here in this ward so here are a list of words I find myself saying all the time while I am at church.

Amazing

Brilliant

Love

Awesome

Stellar

Nick, Jordan, and Rhett walking from church. I think they look cute.

Rhett was able to baptise Nesley Jean. A man from Haiti and the friendliest guy I have ever met. This was the first time Rhett was asked to preform a baptism. He did a great job.

Rhett, Nesley, and Jordan. Jordan is the Ward Mission Leader. He is AMAZING! We feel really lucky to know him and his family, his wife Erin and daughter Olive.

After another baptism for a man named Teddy, we were on our way home and I saw this car on it's way to make somebody very very happy.

This is another reason why I love NY. People have to find creative ways to transport anything and everything.

I Heart Wax

2010-01-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

Go Go Go...If you ever get a chance to go to a Madam Tussauds Wax Museum you should definently go. It is a little pricey but they make it completly worth it.

Many people may not know this but I have wanted to go to a wax museum for years...I knew I was going to have a great time and I was pleasently surprized at how much fun Rhett had since I don't think it was ever a dream of his.

I took this one for you mom!

I love the Jonas Brothers...I can't help it. They are adorable and talented and adorable...yup.

I wish I had a table full of candy.

When I saw Princess Diana I KNEW I wanted a picture with her because she is super iconic...But when I went to stand by her my mind went blank and I didn't know how to pose with her? How does a person pose with a Princess Di wax figure? Does anyone know?

Rhett is flashing an E and a M as in E=MC2. Bless his nerdy little heart.

This one is for you Grandma and Grandpa!

What Harrison Fords and my wedding invitation picture would look like...cutest couple right?

Oh wait...cutest couple right?

In the middle of the museum was a 4D theater where you watch parts of the Polar Express...I HATE 4D. The whole time the chair was stabbing me in the back, it sprayed me with cold water, and blew cold air in my face. Stupid 4D is number one on my list of things I hate.

You know how you think you know someone and then he tells you that he always wanted to have his hand made into a wax mold because he saw other kids doing it at the renaissance fair when he was little?

We decided to make a heart with our hands and Rhett and I thought we were so creative and so adorible. The lady who did the dipping did not think we were either of those things. "Oh yeah we do that all the time."

In the end this is what they look like. When we put our hand heart up on the shelf we both kind of looked at it and thought, "severed hands forming a heart is super creepy." We don't know what to do with it now.

I DID IT!

2010-01-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

I did so many things these last few weeks that I thought were pretty amazing! Not amazing on any sort of important, world saving, life changing way, just in a little Leslie, I can make it, who knew, kind of way.

I had my first dinner party in New York with the missionaries and the Anderson's.

What Leslie Kyte knows and now anyone who reads this blog will know is that cooking for other people is SUPER SCARY to me and sometimes debilitating.

So many things could go wrong right? However, whether they were acting or not everyone seemed to like the food. Thanks everyone for coming and thanks for saying you like my cooking.

After dinner the Missionaries had to go but the Anderson's stayed and we made Gingerbread houses. (or rather graham cracker houses...but that doesn't sound as festive right?)

Rhett and I decided to make a quaint little cottage that sits in the woods, however, because Rhett and I do not believe in the old saying "Less is More" Ours ended up looking more like Liberace's summer cottage in the hills.
Mike is an industrial engineer...Michelle is creative and Classy....Behold their amazing cathedral, complete with a M&M stained glass window.
Christmas Day we opened presents...Okay fine, Christmas Eve we opened them...I couldn't take it any more and I am pretty proud of myself for waiting that long....Okay fine, I had already peeked at all of them days before. Don't judge me, I am weak.

My family draws names for Christmas and since all of us kids are super poor we had to pick gifts for around five dollars and I love that about our gifts because it ensures they are super fun.

Daniel gave Rhett a storm trooper Lego set. To which Rhett said and I quote, "I didn't know I liked Lego's SO much!" Sarah got me this super cute desk top vacuum named Henry and he is better at cleaning than I will ever be.

I made Wicket pose for some pictures with our gifts...

The Storm Troopers and Wicket started fighting with each other...I don't know who started it but... Wicket ended up eating one of them, poor guy.

My mom who loves me very much sent Rhett and I the best gift in the entire world...The.Best.Gift. Listen Universe, if you want to eat the salsa that all other salsa's aspire to be, you will eat El Pato. I thought when I left AZ I would be okay without this spicy paradise juice. I was completely wrong. Thank you Mom, I am forever in your debt.

New Years we went to Central Park. I have never really enjoyed New Years and since it was snowy and rainy and cold in New York I didn't really want to go outside at all. However, Crystal, my super plus BFF in AZ told me I had to do something because it was my first one in NY. Ghah, I was so mad at her at the time.

Her ever reaching wisdom payed off and I am so glad we went out. Central Park was a huge hit. There were costumes, dancing and singing, hot coco and AMAZING fireworks. Thank you Crystal! You made my New Years an incredible one. Love you!

The Tree The Leak and The Cat

2009-12-23T20:34:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas EVERYONE!!! WHOO HOO!!! I love Christmas and I love presents and I love our tree!!! Here it is...It's little, but fluffy...and yeah, I made that little fire place.

The little angle on top is my favorite. I wish you could tell how funny this girl is. I got her for a dollar at little store by my apartment. She is all hot glue and left over pieces of an 80's craft kit. I love her.

Everything has been so great lately that something had to go wrong. My friend Abbie (who was recently locked out of her apartment because her door broke) says that is one of the great things about New York. You get to celebrate through all of the mess.

I also want to wish all of my Jewish friends Happy Hanukkah. I love seeing all of the Menorahs around the city, they are so pretty!

Last thing...Wicket is so cute...He has really enjoyed cuddling inside of anything lately.

Have A Very Torpey Christmas!

2009-12-20T13:41:00.000-08:00

It's true! I do love New York! Last night New York had it's first blizzard of the Season...I don't even know what the definition of a blizzard is...hold on I will check...Blizzard: A severe storm condition characterized by strong winds. low temperatures,and heavy blowing snow. Yup, that is what was happened. We were out and about because we were off to see the comedy group Dan Ryan again! (yeah, they are still awesome.) Aren't they so cute! Can't you just tell how funny they are? They also performed with an awesome guy Michael Torpey and another comedy group called Serious Lunch. Here are the places you can check out and fall in love with them yourselves.

http://www.seriouslunch.com/

http://www.black20.com/

Here we are enjoying the show...Yeah, new Beanie...http://www.fredflare.com/

We got to meet Torpy...Don't you just want to be best friends with him?

After the show we headed home and it was cold...But, It was BEAUTIFUL!!!!

Rhett took this picture...In NY they sell trees on almost every street. I feel like this picture shows why I love New York so much!

Tara Takes Manhattan

2009-12-15T10:23:00.000-08:00

All of the Johnson's were so super excited that Tara was coming for a visit. Including our cats!

Once Tara was safe and all of her luggage dropped off we immediately went to find sustenance at Dinosaur BBQ. It was amazing, yummy, and messy.

Tara and Wicket spent some much needed TLC time together the next morning before we went out.
The first thing we did was visit The Empire State Building. It was super fun and Tara and I went and spent the extra money to get to the 102 floor. It was SO AMAZINGLY not worth it. However on the elevator down they hit a little button that tells you "congratulations you are in the elite 102nd floor club" and I do like being called "Elite!"

On the way up to the top there was a BIG stuffed gorilla that everyone was taking pictures with. (apparently that is what they want you to think right before Gorilla scared the pants off of you!) Tara and I were so bright eyed & sweet that the stinking gorilla just couldn't resist attacking us as we willingly ran into his arms! I started screaming, ran into Tara who started screaming and running and the entire guest list of The E.S.B. laughed at us.

We saw the tree at Rockefeller, which is from Arizona! Go Grand Canyon State!
Okay....That girl in the black jacket is Kate Beckinsale. I SWEAR!!! She was at the Museum Of Modern Art with us and she is SO pretty. Ask Tara... it is her!

Hands Down the coolest sight was the St Patricks Cathedral. It was beautiful and lovely. Everyone should go.

We went to Canal Street! CRAZY!!!! Here we are after with a couple of our amazingly cheep finds! (Cryz, that's my scarf I was telling you about.)

Then we went to Staten Island so Tara could see the statue of liberty and ride the ferry. We made a huge mistake and stayed on the island for dinner...Ghhaallaahhghg...I don't even want to blog about it.

Exploring Midtown!

We also went to the Rockettes at Radio City! It was a great thing to do at Christmas time. They did a huge nativity and the Rockettes really do do some amazing things.

We then went Ice Skating at Bryant park at 12:30 at night. I wanted to be a party pooper but my complaints went unheard and I went ice skating...But get this people, Tara hurt her foot and Rhett was done after 5 minutes! People should listen to me more.

Sunday we went to church and after Rhett had a meeting so Tara and I went home without him...However I didn't bring keys so we went to Central park instead. It was really great and I am glad we got locked out.

Now Tara is gone and I am sad...Come back soon Tara! Wicket and Kelly Clarkson miss you SO much!

Thanks + Giving = Thanksgiving

2009-12-07T14:03:00.000-08:00

November 26th started off a little rocky...Only to turn into the best Thanksgiving I have EVER had in New York! Rhett and I were suppose to wake up early and meet our awesome friends Mike and Michelle...That didn't happen. After Rhett got me out of bed we hopped on the subway and headed down to 76th and central park. Michelle and Mike love us so much that they saved us a spot.

I loved all the cute kids that loved the parade!

There were some baloons and floats that reminded me of people.

PS These things were so HUGE!

Hi Mom, that is Andre Bocelli...He didn't look very happy on that bridge.

After the parade we decided to stay down town and watch The Christmas Carol with Jim Carrey. I don't think I loved it...It was not as fun as the Mickey Christmas Carol and not as light hearted as Muppet Christmas Carol...Apparently I like all classic literiture presented to me in a funny manner by cartoon and muppet animals. The 3-D element was super cool however.

Then Rhett and I went to Michelle and Mikes for dinner...Let me tell you something world. Michelle is an amazing cook and their table was beautiful. Oh, and Michelle and I rocked Rhett and Mike at a domino game. TA-DOW!

Have You Seen Big Business?

2009-11-16T19:03:00.000-08:00

It is a big hearted comedy about country girl, Sadie Ratliff's, visit to New York...There is a lot more to the plot, however, for the purposes of my post we are only going to focus on this piece.

When Sadie arrives in New York she feels more small town than she ever had before. She tries her best throughout the film to fit in and prove she can handle anything these big apple folks can throw at her.

This is how I felt last week when I attended a GAP PR Event with my super awesome friend Michelle.

I was so out of my element before I even entered. There were people standing outside waiting to get in...security, velvet ropes and camera men...The whole shabang.

When I was inside it was amazingly hip. It was also incredibly packed, leading me to believe that Gap was breaking a fire code or two. Catarers dressed in black and wearing Gap scarves (which looked rediculous and Gap should have left their uniforms alone) were walking around with trays of drinks, brownies and cookies all in a fashionable maner.

While we were there we could shop for clothes and get a % off and another % of the sale went to charity. I had to buy something right? Well, I did, and it is super cute and has both ribbons and buttons. WOOT!

There were all these famous people walking right by me, or rather walking around with me. I wasn't looking at them from afar and they wernt being rushed past me like I was a lowly peasant. I was one of them...I was a welcomed member of their society. I tried to act cool. I tired to pretend I was bored. I don't think I pulled it off.

Michelle and I were given a lot of attention from the camera men because we looked so cool in these hats.

Halloween In New York

2009-11-02T17:57:00.000-08:00

This Halloween like every other year, I didn't plan out a costume. Thank heavens for bunko! I dressed up as Fun Run Angela and Rhett dressed as Three Hole Punch Jim. We met a very cute Jim and Pam at the ward party. (We love these two kids!)
The ward party was fun. Classic gym dressed up as a spooky gym. These New Yorker Mormons party it up though, Everyone came and EVERYONE dressed up! Out of all of the costumes these were my favorite!

After the ward party Rhett and I went down to Greenwich Villiage and kicked it with the locals who were haveing a big parade. It was CRAZY!!! Tons of people, tons of costumes, even more profanity and belly buttons. Hands down, one of my top five favorite things about NY is all the people watching you can do. These two were extra spectacular!

2009-10-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

"Did you ever know that you're my hero" yes, that was the song I sang as Elna Baker, the writer of "The New York Regional Mormon Singles Halloween Dance" walked up to the mike. She was lovely.

First, she talked about her five worst dates. One was a guy who picked her up in a mini van and she had this overwhelming feeling that she needed to fill it with children. The guy asked her how long she had been in New York and when she said 8yrs he said..."8yrs? Can you even sew?"

What a lame-o guy.

But Elna, not to brag but I am pretty sure I have your worst dates beat.

It was senior year, Homecoming and I went with a sophomore who said to my face..."I asked you on this date because I thought you would be fun." Then he gave two freshman a ride to the dance and told them how he wished he had gone with them...Then he decided to rank me against other girls while we stood in line to get in the dance. This was not the first nor the last...But I win right?

Back to the reading, Elna then read a chapter of her book and answered questions. She did a great job and was so nice to everyone. Then I got to meet her...Everything I liked about her came spilling out of my mouth. I have no filter when it comes to people I have to awkwardly meet.

"Hi Elna! Wow, I just love you so much and I love your book and you are so pretty and I have this book will you sign it and I made this sign, Oh can I take a picture with you? Because I made this sign for my friend Crystal, she loves you too in fact she sent me the book when I moved here from AZ and this sign is for her."

"Sure." replied Elna.

Dan Ryan Comedy Troop Rendenvous

2009-10-25T17:40:00.000-07:00

Last night was the BEST NIGHT YET!!! Rhett and I, a long time ago ran across a website called Black 20. Its basically hilarious and we love it. A bunch of the people from the website were preforming at a sketch troop contest at this little dive called The Pit.

While I was taking a picture of the stairs above all the guys we LOVED walked right past us...We were star struck. It was the same feeling when I saw Mariska. We followed them up (oh that sounds totally stalker but it wasn't like that) When we got up we introduced ourselves and told them how much we loved them. They were so gracious and nice, we took a picture and they thanked us for coming. EEK!

Then, when I was hanging out there with Rhett I spotted Jessie Cantrell! she is the FUNNIEST girl in the USofA...Honest. I said" Jessie?"

"Hi!" She smiled and said back and walked over like we were old friends.

"Hi I am Leslie and you don't know me."

"Oh okay, Hi, I totally acted like I did though, wasn't I good?"

I told her how stinking awesome I thought she was and then asked her for a picture and just like the guys she was super sincere and grateful we were there to support them.

It was an super fun show and of course all our friends won. (they are the stinking funniest, no one else had a chance.) The audience got to vote and they also had judges. One of the judges was...Are you ready for this Young family and Katlyn...One of the writers from MONK!!! When they introduced him I cheered and after the show was over I went up and talked to him. We discussed how sad we were about the end of the show and how much fun he had working there and how much fun I had watching it.

"Food Tour" or "The Day I Ate Manhattan"

2009-10-22T08:21:00.000-07:00

It was a bright Wednesday afternoon and the Lower East Side thought it would be a normal day just like any other day. What they didn't know was that four VERY pretty, very hungry girls were about to step out of the subway and onto their streets.

Our first stop was at the wonderful Doughnut Plant. A quiet little doughnut shop that was made famous by serving citizens square doughnuts with jelly filling...Not that they will anymore.

When the doughnuts were consumed the girls were still hungry for something more...something with frosting! Dun dun DUN!!!

Sugar Sweet Sunshine was the next stop. I fell in love with the decorating of S.S.S. So much so that the group only ate all of their cupcakes and left the whole cakes for the survivors to eat. I mean honestly, who has a giant picture of Jackie O, and amazing wall paper to boot? The place had to be saved for posterity. It was just too wonderfully quirky.

The next stop was a gelato spot called laboratorio Del Gelato. The poor owner had no idea. He offered a sample on one of those little spoons. Thinking we were harmless. Once we got the taste we just kept eating. (no picture available) trust me you wouldn't want to see the carnage.

After all the sweetness we needed something different. We marched onto Sam's Saigon Bahn Mi. A Vietnamese sandwich shop. Below are three of the four ladies. Abbie was the mastermind behind the raid. and just like snowflakes, no two Ashly's are alike. They both brought unique eating abilities to the table.

It was a great day for me...Not so much for Manhattan.

Ellis Island

2009-10-13T13:09:00.001-07:00

This last Saturday Rhett and I went down to Ellis Island. It took us forever to get there. We of course got lost on the subway. This time it wasn't our fault! They closed down the 1 train and that messed up everyone not just the Johnson's.

Good thing I packed Carrots

Then we got on a ferry out to the island. I really enjoy ferry rides.

Before we got to the Ferry we walked by a person pretending to be the Statue of Liberty, Then we saw the real one on the way to the island.

When you get there you go into a big room. The same room all of the immigrants would go. They would be packed in there until they were called up stares. Walking up the stares was part of their medical exam. They would also check their eyes with button hooks. If they thought there was a problem they would mark them with chalk. Which meant they would be further examined and might not get access into the country.

These are some of the people who came through Ellis Island.

The women were given special help. They wanted to make sure they wouldn't come to the country with no way to live. They even gave them makeovers. It seems like the United states always loved makeovers. Shout out to my friends Stacy and Clinton.

I liked this flag that changed depending on where you stand.

This is our ferry and the Statue of Liberty was in the background from Ellis Island.

It was a really neat trip, I almost cried three times.

It was really an amazing place to visit and I learned so much about what people gave to come here and what this nation gained by their sacrifices.

FIRST DAY AT CHURCH

2009-10-11T18:44:00.000-07:00

So, today was our first day going to our ward. Our journey to get there was pretty fun. (sarcasm) First off we got on the wrong train, Then we got on the right train which took us back to where we started only to stop there and go no further. So we had to climb out of the subway to get on a shuttle bus. From there we followed a group of Mormon looking folk and right as we were about to get there, Rhett stepped in dog poop. Ugh, So he cleaned up and we went in.

Everyone was nice. Especially a woman named Sally who was also visiting and we got lost together, and a girl named Abbey who was so stinken sweet she invited us to dinner. It was awesome. (in fact we just got back from dinner, it was wonderful) I brought her Tootsie Pops as a gift for the hostess in a cute little bag since that was all I have to my name. We met a comedian there and we are going to his show later this week. (people in NY have fun jobs.) Here is a video of when he was on Comedy Central.

Live at Gotham

Ryan Hamilton - Depression

http://www.comedycentral.com/

Joke of the Day

Stand-Up Comedy

Free Online Games

Law And Order SVU

2009-10-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

This last week Law and Order SVU came to our apartment and filmed there all day. I don't have a job yet so obviously I spent my whole day sneaking pictures of what was going on. I felt like it was one of my more productive days... And not just since I've been here in New York.

This is the flier they put up in our lobby. Giving me plenty of notice on what my plans would be that day.

They filmed outside all morning

So, in the afternoon when I was on my way back to my apartment after scoping out the bathrooms. I walked up to my apartment right when Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni where walking in. Mariska totally smiled at me, we were best friends instantly. A really nice tech guy let me watch in the lobby while they rehearsed.

Rhett created this awesome video. He is super talented

Rheslie's Apartment Pictures

2009-09-17T17:59:00.001-07:00

AND... BEST OF ALL

Just Us Girls

2009-09-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

I know it seems like Kelly Clarkson is a bit of an introvert. but when you get to know her she is a whole different cat! This is the Kelly Clarkson I know...

I LOVE YOU KELLY CLARKSON!!!!

2009-09-04T21:43:00.001-07:00

My cat's fight. It's scary.

GRRROWL

2009-09-01T17:42:00.000-07:00

Now that I know I am moving, day to day things are getting harder and harder for me to deal with. Things like...Oh I don't know WORK! AAAHHHHH I can't take it! My friend at work took this picture of me. I hadn't realized what a monster I had become.

Is this post too cheesy...It is isn't it.

Setting The Record Straight

2009-08-30T19:52:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Unfortunately today, I have to take time out of my busy schedule to set the record straight. Usually I do not give any weight to rumors, gossip, or slander. But when I heard that there was a certain individual saying things that were so untrue and so disturbing I know that I would have to make a formal statement.

I have, do, and will always love Crystal. Before I met her I dreamed of a friend like her. When I saw her I knew my life would never be the same. As we have continued our friendship I knew I would never be able to forget her.

So, for all those who think we will ever be anything less than Super Plus Best Friends Forever. I have one thing for you to see. Please scroll down.

I have already made this picture the back ground on my phone, computer, and ipod. I have a shirt being made and I plan on wearing it at least twice a week with this picture on it. I promise all of you that I will not...nay, I CANNOT forget about Crystal.

BOO

2009-08-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

I Ran Into An Old Crush Last Night

2009-08-21T17:30:00.000-07:00

Last night I ran across this picture and I thought it was SUPER COOL. Plus I have always been in love with Mark Hamill. So much so that I once met a boy who looked like Mr Skywalker and got up early every morning to play ultimate Frisbee with him. Two things I really really hate. Any way, Enjoy the picture. It makes me wonder why I didn't notice Harris lookn' all fine.

Form left to right. Han Solo, Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Leia, R2D2, Luke Skywalker

Pink Is The New Matching Shirts

2009-08-18T18:39:00.000-07:00

Rhett and I car pool in the morning and we get up very very very early. Before 5:00am early. Which I think is still technically the night before and I am patitioning that the state recognize it as such. If you would like to join the fight against 4:00AM please contact me at http://www.not_possibly_time_to_get_up_yet.com/.

My morning "get ready" routine usually consists of three steps.

Step 1: Roll out of Bed
Step 2: Put on cloths in the dark
Step 3: Grab something from the fridge for lunch

DONE.

This morning I followed my routine to the letter and Rhett and I were on our way. Usually on the drive over I will play a little solitaire on my phone because I couldn't possibly manage a polite conversation with Rhett. (My sister Sarah knows what I am talkin' about.) After about 10 minutes I finally look up to find Rhett wearing the same shirt as me! Thats right ladies and gentlemen we both were wearing a pink polo shirt, and the only distinguishing difference was a small KB Home logo that was stiched into mine.

AAARRRGGHH!!!! It was imbarrasing, but is spurred a rather fun afternoon of family pictures. We tried to make it as classic as we could. I think Rhett's hand on my shoulder is a very romantic touch.

Why I Can't Go To The Gym

2009-08-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

Yesterday evening I put on my fanciest gym cloths and my bright yellow socks because I was going to Reformer Bar Class (it involves a bar with stretchy bands on it). I love this class and my instructor looks, talks, and acts just like Terrie Garr. We took out all of our supplies which included a mat, towel, tennis balls, and the reformer bar. I sat down and the instructor announces "Everyone make sure they signed in!" Rhett and I looked at each other...(Sign in?)

Rhett: "Oh, we have to sign in?"

Instructor: "Yeah you sign in because this is a class you have to pay for."

WHAT!!!! We had no idea, I had been to this class two times before and this was the first I had ever heard of it. It was obvious to everyone that we were non-payers and the women who take gym classes do not like non-payers. In fact the woman right behind me sounded like a mad penny pinching parrot "Raawk, you have to pay! You have to pay for this class! RAAWK!"

So, Rhett and I had to get out of there, and it's not like we could bolt. We had to put all of our things away first... the mat, the towel, the tennis balls, and the reformer bar. With everyone watching us.

And that is why I can't go to the gym.