A house and two cats

New dining room

2010-11-28T04:19:00.001-08:00

This is what it looked like to start -

And here's us enjoying Thanksgiving dinner together in the finished product. A job well done!

Rome

2010-10-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Great sights, great company and amazing food! Can't beat a girly weekend in Rome, although I must admit I really missed J. Next year we're committing to mini breaks in European cities. They are the best.

Home to California

2010-10-27T12:22:00.000-07:00

I went home for a few days to see the fam. It was such a nice rest and had so much fun playing with everyone - especially this little girl :)

Maggie's 20 Mile Night Hike

2010-09-18T06:50:00.000-07:00

Last night my friends and I walked 20 miles around London to raise money for a cancer charity. Let's just say I'm a bit sore and tired this morning! But it was a great experience and will be a life long memory to cherish forever! And we raised lots of money for a great cause. If you are interested in helping us to raise even more, please click here.

Hall Stairs and Landing

2010-09-11T04:12:00.000-07:00

For some reason these uploaded in reverse order. So the finished product is here:

And the later photos is how it looked when we moved in.... all the bits in between represent all the hard work we've been doing over the past 5 months!

On to the dining room now....

N's trip to the UK

2010-08-21T05:48:00.007-07:00

My brother N visited us on the way home from his field studies program in Ghana. We had such a great time visiting museums in London, travelling to Snowdonia in Wales to do some family history visiting, walking and eating lots of good food! We really miss you now N! Good luck in your last year at uni.

Edinburgh

2010-08-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

The last week of July, J and I went to Edinburgh for a long weekend. We wanted to try out our new car, so we drove all the way there and back (about 7 hours). That doesn't sound like a long drive to me, but for J it was very long as those Brits aren't used to driving long distances like we Americans are!

The first day, we stopped at the Angel of the North on the drive up. We stayed at a lovely B&B in the Leith part of Edinburgh (about 20 minute walk from Princes St). We visited the Royal Botanic Gardens and saw a comedy act, which was a prep act for the Festival, which started this week.

Then on Friday, we saw the Royal Yacht Britannia, which was the Queen's boat that she used on all her holidays for nearly 50 years. That was beautiful and I really enjoyed seeing the Queen's taste in decor. Then we had lunch at The Kitchin, which is a Michelin starred restaurant and it was fab. I will never forget having minced pigs trotters - yum! J also really enjoyed his chocolate souffle for dessert. That afternoon we shopped, went on a ghost tour and then had a late supper at The Witchery Restaurant near the Castle.

On Saturday, we visited the Castle and then walked all around the town and shopped way too much. We saw Inception and then had a nice quiet dinner at a Mediterranean restaurant that evening.

All in all, we ate too much and spent too much but it was a great little break to get away. Even the weather cooperated :) Now we just have to get through 3 more days of work and then we're off for a week (or 2 weeks in J's case) for our visit with N. More pics to come!

London 2 Brighton

2010-05-22T10:06:00.001-07:00

Last week was the annual Mini Run to Brighton. Our mini did so well but it took 4 hours to get to Brighton (it should only take about 2!) So much traffic which was a bore. But a nice day at the seaside and so much fun seeing all the minis!

Visit with Elder J

2010-05-22T10:04:00.001-07:00

We went to King's Lynn in Norfolk last month to visit Elder J and his companion. We had a great time!

Cello lessons

2010-04-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

I have decided to learn to play the cello. I've always loved it and figured now was as good a time as any to learn. I have hired a cello from the local music shop and found a teacher in my town. He's very good - still doing his degree in cello performance, but he also teaches piano and violin. I had my first lesson last weekend and was excited to get practicing on Sunday. Then I got the bright idea to try my hand at tuning and managed to break the C string. That's the really big fat one that is the equivalent of the C two octaves below middle C on the piano. When I told my teacher he said it was quite an achievement and he has never broken the C string. Guess I didn't know my own strength! I have managed to buy and fit a new string, but I think it's pretty bad quality because, even though it's now roughly in tune, it just sounds so much worse than the other ones. Think I'll be string shopping again this weekend once my teacher has had a chance to look at it and recommend the best one for the instrument (that won't cost the earth as I can't afford to keep replacing good strings on a weekly basis!) I have already managed a C major scale though and am learning how to hold the bow and make a sound that isn't too painful for the ears! (Poor J and the kitties!) But it gives me something to look forward to in the evenings to spend a little time practicing something and it has also inspired me to get back into practicing the piano. I really appreciate being able to sit down and actually make music on that instrument! Stay tuned for some pics with me and my beautiful cello :)

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T04:59:00.000-07:00

In the evenings, J and I have been reading a poetry book we picked up during our last weekend away. Here is one of our favs - which is perfect for this time of year. I never knew daffodils until I moved to Britain.

I WANDERED lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
When all at once I saw a crowd,
A host, of golden daffodils;
Beside the lake, beneath the trees,
Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine
And twinkle on the milky way,
They stretched in never-ending line
Along the margin of a bay:
Ten thousand saw I at a glance,
Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them danced; but they
Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:
A poet could not but be gay,
In such a jocund company:
I gazed--and gazed--but little thought
What wealth the show to me had brought:

For oft, when on my couch I lie
In vacant or in pensive mood,
They flash upon that inward eye
Which is the bliss of solitude;
And then my heart with pleasure fills,
And dances with the daffodils.

William Wordsworth
1804.

Marrakech

2010-02-27T04:34:00.000-08:00

We just got back from a week in Marrakech! What a lovely city - a serious impact on the senses - all the sights, sounds, smells. We stayed at a brand new resort called the Riu Tikida Palmeraie, had a lovely suite overlooking the pool and Atlas Mountains. And we were spoiled with it being All Inclusive - all the food and drink you could ever want. We tried so many different types of food - tagines, kebabs, couscous, mint tea, and even lamb's brain (tasted fine but didn't like the texture)! And we are so happy that we spent a day up in the Atlas Mountains to go see the Cascades of Ouzoud (the 2nd largest waterfall in Africa) and several Berber villages. It really makes you appreciate and be grateful for all that we have. But the people are so friendly and kind. We never felt unsafe and were greeted with a Salaam Aleikum / Bonjour and a smile everywhere we went. What a great place - we would recommend it to anyone! We were so sad when we had to come back to dreary England.... But we can't wait to go back and are thinking of trying out the coastal town of Agadir next.

2nd Bedroom

2010-02-27T03:36:00.000-08:00

We spent New Year's weekend finishing off the decoration of the 2nd bedroom. We had the ceiling re-plastered to remove the old textured pattern, repainted it white with several coats. We prepared all the woodwork on the skirting boards and doors and repainted in white gloss. We papered one wall with a gold shimmery paper and painted the rest in a caramel colour. We had a new carpet laid too. We then went out and bought a chest of draws to compliment the room and fitted a nice light. Finishing touches are J's grandma's African masks and a plate we bought in Morocco. Now you can come and visit!

The Costwolds - December 2009

2009-12-13T01:41:00.000-08:00

Last weekend J and I went to the Cotswolds. We stayed in a little B&B in a town called Chipping Campden. We ate at nice country pubs, saw Charlecote Manor (where there was the most amazing choir singing Christmas carols), and took a walk up to Dover Hill. Such a nice much needed break!

Bonfire Night 2009

2009-12-13T01:38:00.000-08:00

I passed!

2009-11-21T02:03:00.000-08:00

The hard work paid off. I found out last night I passed the California Bar Exam!!!! Now where do I take the oath?

In other news, we had a lovely visit with my parents and C earlier this month. We even had a special day with S and his companion in London. What a blessing to have almost the entire family together again :)

Other than that, we're just working really hard, rehearsing for the panto in January, and re-decorating the 2nd bedroom. Oh - and looking forward to Christmas!!!

Our new study - now we can get some work done!

2009-09-20T07:20:00.000-07:00

Minding the Gap

2009-08-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

This year marks the 50th Anniversary of Upminster Depot. This past Bank Holiday weekend, the Depot was open to the public to see how they maintain the trains and there was a bit of history there too. Here's us supporting our local tourist attractions (well for the day at least....)

Buddleia

2009-08-31T06:21:00.000-07:00

Butterflies on our beautiful buddleia

Tag you're it

2009-08-21T09:06:00.000-07:00

I got tagged by M a few weeks ago and just remembered - now I have a few spare moments this afternoon, so thought I would try it out!

What is your current obsession? whether I have passed that stupid exam or not.
What do you hate that most everyone else seems to love? cilantro. It is the grossest thing in the word.
What are you wearing today? beige summer trousers, frilly top over a tank top and a white cardigan. Summer office wear!
What’s for dinner? it was supposed to be steak and chips but forgot to take the meat out to defrost. Might go out to dinner if I'm lucky!
What would you eat for your last meal? chocolate fudge sundae from ghiradelli square.
What’s the last thing you bought? lunch from this cafe near work. It was supposed to be a picnic in a box and it had a French theme to it - salami, brie, beetroot, carrot and coleslaw salad. Plus an amazing chocolate brownie. Last purchase non-food-wise was a plane ticket to Washington DC (although I will be reimbursed by the firm for that one!)
What are you listening to right now? My colleagues chatting down the hall.
If you could have a house totally paid for, fully furnished anywhere in the world, where would you like it to be? My own home! I love it (although I would have a secret portal to mum and dad's so I didn't have to endure that awful flight each time)
If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go? Anywhere on a warm sunny beach listening to the waves coming in.... paradise!
What is a hobby of yours? Spotting Eddie Stobart lorries. Geekazoid as J would say.
What is your favourite colour? probably blue
If you could be proficient at anything without having to practice it over and over again, what would it be? cooking
What is your dream job? anything where I could work from 10 to 4 and get paid lots of money for not a lot of work!
Describe your personal style? casual chic
What’s your favourite tree? maple (mmmm syrup!)
What are you going to do after this? go home for the weekend!
What’s your favourite fruit? strawberries from kent. although they are not necessarily the biggest - they def make up for it in taste! but I pretty much like all fruit too.
What inspires you? a good goal to work towards.
Who was the last person you kissed? J of course.
What are you currently reading? The Pianist (see the film - it is so good!)
Go to your bookshelf, take down the first book with a red spine you see, turn to page 26 and type out the first line: "In law it is very clear that this clause is seen to be in a place to deal with minor matters and NOT to allow the core purpose of the contract to be changed because of a "mistake". A Guide to Reinsurance Law. I'm doing this at work remember!
What is your favorite sound? I really like hearing the district line whistle as it pulls in to the depot at night. So relaxing for some reason!
What delighted you most today? A friend announcing she is pregnant.
By what criteria do you judge a person? their goals
Did you laugh today? a bit. hope to more when I get home.
What is your favourite type of weather? sunny and warm (around 85 degrees) with a light breeze.

The rules:1. Respond and rework; answer the questions on your blog, replace one question you dislike with a question of your invention, add one more question of your own.
Tag eight other people.
I don't think 8 people look at this blog. Anyone else who wants to do it please do!

Never again!

2009-08-03T03:10:00.000-07:00

Back to work following the bar exam last week. It was hard. Definitely the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life. Law school was a walk in the park compared to it. I am pretty sure I am never going to do that again, whether I pass or not. Good thing I already have a job here in London.

I have no idea how I did on it. But let's keep hoping I passed. Unfortunately, I won't know until 20 November 2009!

Thanks to Mom and Dad and everyone else for all their support over the past few months while I was studying. I love you guys!

M&O in London

2009-07-03T04:22:00.000-07:00

Many of you may have seen M's blog already and have been following the progress of their trip. Today we took them to Heathrow and said goodbye for now. Very sad. But we will always remember all the good times over the past two weeks. Thanks for coming guys! We love you!

New Bedroom

2009-05-24T06:24:00.001-07:00

While K has been studying J has been doing this.......

London to Brighton

2009-05-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

Haven't been doing too much lately. Working, studying for the California bar exam and re-doing our bedroom (it's almost done and I will post pics as soon as it is).

Yesterday we took a welcome break and did the annual London to Brighton. Unfortunately, despite J's hard work over the past 2 months to get the Mini up and running, it isn't at it's best and we didn't want to take the chance of it breaking down along the way. So we just took the train down and enjoyed the day anyway (despite the rubbish weather). It is the 50th anniversary of the first Mini this year, so it was a pretty big birthday party.

A Gem of a Niece

2009-03-25T10:26:00.001-07:00

I am so grateful I got to go visit M&M and O earlier this month. She is such a lovely little girl and I just can't get enough of her!

And her Mum is great too!

We can't wait for you guys to come see us in June!

New York 2009

2009-03-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

Jan/Feb

2009-02-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

OK OK here's an update. Very brief and without pics - (sorry I am doing this from work and don't have any pictures on this computer).

J and I enjoyed a lovely Christmas in California with the whole J clan (minus C). We spent lots of time playing and holding O, playing Guitar Hero, eating good food, and generally having a great time!

I have now started my new job (hence the delay in updating). I seriously have been working 12-15 hour days since the first week of January. But I am on some great cases and I suppose it's really good to be busy, especially in this economy.

The house continues to be fab - we have done lots of work on it already - painting, re-plastering the walls and ceiling in the master bedroom, new front door, new cellar door, new bedroom furniture. Lots more work to do, but it will keep J busy on the weekends while I am studying.

Which is why I have not been updating - I am studying to take the California bar exam in July so I will be dual qualified. Yikes! So much to learn in less than 6 months! And so much bureaucracy to get through too with the application process! But I am hoping it will all be worth it in the end just like law school here.

The panto in January also went really well. Check out the photos on facebook (especially the fantastic Mother Goose costume!)

So that's a brief update on the J & K front.

We are off to NYC for J's 30th birthday this weekend. And then I am going to California/Utah/Idaho the first week of March to see the family before my exam on 7 March.

I promise to update (with pics!) when I am back.

New name

2008-12-11T06:50:00.000-08:00

Maybe you noticed that J has changed the name of our blog. Doesn't quite have the same ring.... but he is so proud of our new house that he had to make it known I guess! We'll try to think of something new and catchy. Until then.... we're stuck with it.

9 days til we go to California for Christmas! The countdown continues.

4/4/4

2008-11-30T11:49:00.000-08:00

Good idea Kelli!

Here's my 4th folder, 4th picture:

1) This photo was taken on 2 April 2006.
2) It was taken by a professional photographer in Delhi at the wedding of one J's colleagues.
3) It was a Hindu ceremony and probably the most beautiful and colourful wedding I have ever been to!
4) J was not very well that day. Good ol' Delhi belly (although I think it was actually caused by his decision to sit out by the pool in the heat with no shade for the entire afternoon before the wedding.

Anyone else? Remember - 4th folder under my pictures, 4th picture in that folder, 4 things about it.

Our new house

2008-11-29T04:01:00.000-08:00

Admission Ceremony

2008-11-29T03:29:00.001-08:00

Alright - a little late, I know, but we have been so busy moving (and I had a trial) so I haven't had time to post. But anyway, here are pics from my ceremony celebrating my admission to the Law Society. Justin, Chris and Liz were so kind to join me on my special day, and then we all had a lovely dinner at The Oxo Tower Brasserie (and even they were in on the surprises!)

3 Windmill Close

2008-10-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

We exchanged contracts on our house! (And selling our flat too). It's a done deal now, we are moving on Thanksgiving Day. I wish I had a picture of the house to post, but here's us making a start packing yesterday. Even Tom was helping.

The Wesley Players - Starring in "Is there something I should know?"

2008-10-05T05:05:00.000-07:00

It's official!

2008-09-19T03:16:00.000-07:00

I'm a solicitor

All change

2008-09-17T12:39:00.000-07:00

My life is in a state of flux at the moment. I think I can safely put this out on to the blogosphere because the choices are made and everyone who has to know now knows. Anyway, so here goes. I have decided to leave Robin Simon and join an American firm called Crowell & Moring. I have been very happy at RSL and I am very sad to leave, especially when I have just officially qualified as a solicitor and I have been involved in some really great cases. However, I know this is the right move for me at this time in my career and it will put me in a place where I will have more choices, especially if J and I ever decide we do want to move to the US. But it doesn't make it any easier to leave the comfort and safety of my friends and career at RSL! Luckily, this opportunity arose because one of the partners from RSL decided she needed a change and she is now at Crowell. It was through her that I started the interview process and was offered the job. It is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am getting very excited. RSL have also been very supportive. Although they are sad to see me go, all the partners seem to agree that this is the right thing for me to be doing and have told me that if doesn't work out they want me back asap! Always good to know and I am so glad that I have not had to burn any bridges with such a great bunch of people.

What with a new job and a new house (which we are signing the paperwork on on Friday so we should be moving in by mid-October) it is all change for Mr and Mrs A-S. It's good to have change though. It keeps life interesting and stops us from getting into ruts. So I know these changes will be great for us and our relationship. We always say that we can get through everything as long as we have each other and I am so grateful for the support and love J gives me everyday!

Speaking of J - he is the lead part in a play being put on by our drama society next week! The play is all about his character, who is an adopted son who learns that his biological mother lives next door! It's set in the 80s and was written by one of our am dram colleagues and I must say it is a great script! Anyone interested in it can take a look here. Or see J's announcement/group thing on Facebook. We'll post pics of him in his fab 80s costume and makeup next week.

P.S. Congrats to M&M and my new baby niece OJP! We love you guys!!!!!

Summer holiday

2008-08-27T08:50:00.000-07:00

Here are the pictures from our trip as promised.

First, we spent a lovely few days in Orlando - the boys hit Islands of Adventure and the girls went for a nice lunch at Downtown Disney. Then we drove 6 hours to Hilton Head (stopping to see the Castillo de San Marcos and for an amazing lunch at La Harencia in St Augustine. I really loved this little town and could have spent a few days there!

Hilton Head is gorgeous - not too hot not too cold. Just the right temp for sitting by the beach/pool. The ocean was so warm too! But poor Spence got stung by a jelly fish. We had an amazing week relaxing, spending time together as a family and eating really good food! We also got to spend some time with our good friends Justin and Tessa Ward (Justin is in Charleston at dental school). It was great to see Charleston from the perspective of the locals!

Then J and I drove to Savannah, which is also very cute. We stayed in the most amazing B&B (we had an original Picasso and a chest of drawers worth $125,000 in our room!). We enjoyed walking around and eating lovely meals out in this very haunted city! We took a ghost walking tour the last night we were there and I totally got freaked out and couldn't sleep all night. Needless to say, I was ready to get out of there!

Finally, we drove back to Orlando for 4 days at Disneyworld. We were upgraded to the "Dream Suite" at the Boardwalk Villas which was the most amazing hotel room I have ever been in.

All in all it was the best Jensen holiday we have ever been on (although we missed Cameron terribly). Thanks Mom and Dad (and the rest of the fam) for all the memories!

Update

2008-07-29T05:20:00.000-07:00

Well it has been a very long time since I have posted, although I have been enjoying reading everyone else's blog!

Our summer has been pretty quiet so far. We have been trying to sell our flat and buy a house, so everything has been up in the air and all our weekends have been devoted to viewings, cleaning, etc. Not sure what made us decided to do this in this property market!

But all the hard work has finally paid off. Last week we accepted an offer on our flat and made a revised offer on the house that we like, which was accepted! We have applied for a mortgage, which is agreed in principle. Subject to surveys and sale contracts going through, we should be moving to a beautiful 4 bedroom detached house in October. It is seriously our dream house and we are so excited. They have taken it off the website, so I can't post the link, but I will definitely post some pictures if/when we move in.

We are also excited because our holiday has finally come round. We leave tomorrow on a fun-filled 2 week break with the Jensen family in DisneyWorld and Hilton Head, SC (with J&I stopping for a 2 day anniversary break in Savannah). We have all be planning and making itineraries for several months now, and I, of course, have been counting down the days as I always do! Can't believe we are finally on our way!

Anyway - I will be back in mid-August with details and pictures of our trip. Hopefully I will also know more by then as to whether our house purchase is going to go through.

A National Trust Spring

2008-05-25T08:54:00.001-07:00

We are members of the National Trust, which restores historic houses/gardens and opens them to the public. We love looking at the houses and gardens - geeky I know!

London to Brighton

2008-05-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went on the annual London to Brighton Mini Run with our little Mini. Here are some of the highlights.

Man Utd v West Ham

2008-05-07T04:16:00.000-07:00

Last weekend J's firm treated us (and J's clients) to a day out at Manchester United. They played West Ham (who J has always supported, but aren't as good as Man U). We had a 4 course breakfast before kick off, treats and drinks at half time and afterwards, got to meet some of the players. Of course we also had great seats at the match. Man U won 4-1, but there was some great goals - and one of the players got sent off with a red card for head butting. It was so much fun.

We also enjoyed our weekend in Manchester - what a lovely city. Great shopping (although we didn't spend anything cuz we're saving up for our house) and fantastic Indian food!

Monday was a bank holiday and we went for a bike ride through a country park. It was a lovely day, but we still got really muddy. Just made us look like we were more serious cyclers than we really are....

But it was so nice to have a long weekend and such a great one at that.

The first day of spring - finally

2008-04-28T06:59:00.000-07:00

Some pics from our walk in the country on Saturday. Warmest day I can remember in ages!

What a difference....a few weeks make

2008-04-26T03:32:00.000-07:00

Well - let's just say that today is the exact opposite of that post below. It is actually in the 70s today (20s C). I can't believe it. I am in capris and t-shirt and flip flops - hanging out the washing outside. And not cold. I can't remember the last time I was so naturally warm. It is glorious.

Yes, we are moving. If we can sell this darned flat. Not the best time to be moving, really - everyone seems so freaked out by the property market and it's hard to get a mortgage. But, we found this house we have fallen in love with and they have accepted our offer! Now we only have to shift this place and we will have a 4 bedroom detached house! Not sure we I'll have to change the name of our blog then.....

But I am not getting my hopes up too much. Especially cuz we haven't had anyone round to see our place yet. I will be so disappointed if we lose that house though :( But all we can do is hope someone will come see how lovely our flat is and want to buy it! Keep your fingers crossed.

Any offers?

2008-04-16T10:28:00.000-07:00

http://www.rightmove.co.uk/viewdetails-20742773.rsp?pa_n=1&tr_t=buy

It's April for heaven's sake

2008-04-06T04:50:00.000-07:00

This is what we woke up to.

Bleg.

Twins!

2008-04-06T04:43:00.001-07:00

Can you spot the difference?

As promised - photos from California

2008-04-06T04:42:00.001-07:00

Busy Busy

2008-03-14T04:20:00.000-07:00

We had a lovely time in California - beautiful sunshine in San Francisco with a gourmet meal at Gary Dankos. Shopping in Walnut Creek, The Great Mall and Stoneridge's. Mom and Dad's cooking. The Winchester Mystery House. Old Town Sacramento with Aunt Dorothy. Spencer's lip sync competition which his class won! Lovely talks and so much nice food! We didn't want to come back.

We also loved our special night in the "honeymoon suite" at Grandma and Grandpa's. We enjoyed our lovely soup, catch up and were so surprised when Grandma gave us some lovely china from her collection. The Lennox Rhodora pattern - which we love! It was quite an adventure to get it back to England - we couldn't take it all.... some got left behind for future trips across the Pond - but the bits we brought survived the turbulence in the jet stream!

Now we're back at home, trying to get back into work and life (so much laundry and ironing!) I am away this weekend on our firm's annual training course - so won't get to sleep in as usual. But I'm just about over the jet lag so I guess I'll just have to keep going.

I'll try to post some photos soon when I get a chance to sit down at the computer at home (I spend all day in front of one at work... I can't bear to do it when I get home). But I'll find some time.

Hope you are all well.

Whirlwind week

2008-02-23T05:10:00.000-08:00

Well - I made the mistake of putting my CV up on Monster this week. I was just interested in seeing what is out there in terms of alternative jobs when I qualify. I then spent every evening this week talking to recruitment agents. Some of them even had the cheek to call me at work! Scum of the earth if you ask me. Luckily I have J's bro (I) who is a recruitment agent for actuaries, so he gave me the rundown on how to go about this scary process. It seems like such hard work to find the right one, and that's not even the job! Sigh.... maybe I should just stay where I am.

Thursday was J's birthday and we went out to dinner with I at this little Italian place in Upminster. Had a really nice night out - and tonight we're going to see Mark Ronson at the Hammersmith Apollo. He just won Best Male Artist at the Brit Awards (UK's version of the Grammy's) so it should be a pretty good night.

We also went to view that house today - it is just the right size, nice garden, etc. But everything, I mean everything, needs re-doing. New carpet, wallpaper, kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms. Everything. I would even think some major structural re-doing wouldn't go amiss (knocking down walls, etc). I don't think we can deal with paying over half a million pounds for a house that needs so much work. I know we're gonna have to find somewhere that needs some tender loving care.... but there has to be a balance! So we'll keep looking and dreaming the dream.

Flying to CA this time next week!

Visit to the Vets and Afternoon Tea

2008-02-16T03:07:00.000-08:00

Two weeks from today we're coming to California!

The poor kitties had to go to the vet today for their annual checkup and jabs. But they were so good and Tom even took his worm tablet which he never usually does! What good kitties!!!

I have got it into my head that I have found our dream house. Unfortunately, they only have a picture of the outside on the agent's website, but it is right in the centre of Upminster, backing onto the park - about a 10 minute walk to the station. 4 bedroom detached with a 2 car garage. You just don't get houses like that in Upminster!

I even got a mortgage quote and we could technically afford it, although we would be poor (at least until I qualify in September). But it is in the right place, for the right amount and it is beautiful. I wanted to be able to go view it today, but the agent couldn't get an appointment cuz the stupid owner is sick. Well - that is not convenient is it? How do they expect to sell their house if they won't let anyone see it on the weekend?!?! Nevermind - maybe we'll be able to go see it next week sometime. J is very scared though and says we're not ready to buy a house yet. He's probably right - but I can at least dream, can't I?

Today is our annual Afternoon Tea. We always go for afternoon tea at a nice hotel in London for Valentine's. The tradition started the first year I moved to London, before J and I were even engaged and were still dating. V day was on a Sunday that year and he surprised me by taking me to the Savoy for tea. It is a beautiful, elaborate ceremony choosing what tea you want, pouring it out, and eating all the yummy sandwiches, scones and clotted cream and cakes. And they keep bringing more around to your table until you are stuffed. Yummy! Since then we have been to Brown's, Claridges and The Dorchester. This year it's The Landmark. We still haven't done The Ritz cuz it's impossible to get a booking - but we'll try again next year! It's such a fun tradition.

So much to tell

2008-02-09T04:30:00.000-08:00

Well where do I start! I have been the world's worst blogger this month, but so much has happened. Sorry this is going to be a long post cuz I must update on so much.

Not sure if I mentioned before, but J and I joined an amateur dramatics society called The Wesley Players. I played the piano at the performance of the panto Dick Whittington last week and J helped in all sorts of ways back stage. We both really enjoyed it so we are looking forward to the next performance of Curtain Call in May (although this one won't be a musical).

Unfortunately I failed my driving test last week. They said I hesitated at a few junctions. I thought I was just being cautious! So much for defensive driving. Anyway, I couldn't get another appointment to take the test again until end of March, so the saga of driving lessons continues.

J finished tax season (if you can really say finish...) and is now considering where to go in his job. They offered him a different role, but he doesn't think it would be the best way forward. So we're generally having a think about that.

Last week I used up my Christmas present from J. A day spa appointment all to myself at The Spa at Chancery Court. It was a day of heaven - I emerged a brand new woman. I had a holistic stressbuster treatment with exfoliations, hot stone massage and relaxing facial. And boy was the masseur hot. If J had known a tall dark handsome foreign guy with an Eastern European accent was going to be doing the treatment..... I don't think he would have got it for me! But we'll keep that between us ;-) I certainly will be going back for another one of those, but I think J should come along this time. It was too good to go alone.

As for me, I'm just chugging along with work. RSL have offered me a job permanently when I qualify, so that's a weight off my shoulders. Just got to get to then.

All that busy-ness made J come down with a cold, which he then passed to me. Lovely. But it is a beautiful day today so I think I'm going to try to talk J into a walk and a cream tea somewhere in the country. I'll try to do better about my posting.

What's in a Name

2008-01-17T02:21:00.000-08:00

This is scary.... is it me or what?

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life. You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip. People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them. You tend to be pretty tightly wound. It's easy to get you excited... which can be a good or bad thing.You have a lot of enthusiasm, but it fades rather quickly. You don't stick with any one thing for very long.You have the drive to accomplish a lot in a short amount of time. Your biggest problem is making sure you finish the projects you start.You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something.You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense.You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun.You are the total package - suave, sexy, smart, and strong.You have the whole world under your spell, and you can influence almost everyone you know.You don't always resist your urges to crush the weak. Just remember, they don't have as much going for them as you do.You are a seeker. You often find yourself restless - and you have a lot of questions about life.You tend to travel often, to fairly random locations. You're most comfortable when you're far away from home.You are quite passionate and easily tempted. Your impulses sometimes get you into trouble.You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone.You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together.At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people.You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts.You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality.You are a free spirit, and you resent anyone who tries to fence you in.You are unpredictable, adventurous, and always a little surprising.You may miss out by not settling down, but you're too busy having fun to care.You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row.You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace.People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality.You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life.You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you.At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself.You are confident, self assured, and capable. You are not easily intimidated.You master any and all skills easily. You don't have to work hard for what you want.You make your life out to be exactly how you want it. And you'll knock down anyone who gets in your way!You are truly an original person. You have amazing ideas, and the power to carry them out.Success comes rather easily for you... especially in business and academia.Some people find you to be selfish and a bit overbearing. You're a strong person.

thanks to KAP for the link

Christmas cottage in Norfolk

2008-01-12T09:15:00.000-08:00

Sorry it's taken me so long to post. Christmas was fantastic - just as we expected :) here are the pics......

In other news - we've booked our tix to come to California the week of 1-7 March!!! Hope to see you guys there!

Birthday Celebrations

2007-12-21T05:40:00.000-08:00

Today I turn 26. Yesterday I made my first appointment to get my hair highlighted. I am so sick of it just getting darker and darker. I used to be a blonde! I guess I must be getting old.

Well today is my last day at work for 12 days so I am very excited! But I have to work the whole day (even though I was hoping I would be able to get away a bit early).

J&I are driving up to the Christmas cottage this evening and then the rest of the fam will join us tomorrow. It is going to be a great Christmas!

Hope you all enjoy your holidays.

All our love and best wishes, love K&J

12 Days of Christmas

2007-12-13T03:19:00.000-08:00

Sorry I missed a week last week, I came down with the death plague that has been going around. I missed 3 days of work (shocking!) and cancelled my driving lesson. But started to feel better towards the end of the week. It has left me with a gross smoker's cough though. Lovely!

J and I have decided to join an amateur dramatics society in Upminster. They needed a pianist to play for their panto this year, so there we are. We are performing "Dick Whittington" the last week in January. We have been to 3 rehearsals so far and it has been amazing how welcome we have been made to feel by the other members. As I have always found in these types of things, the pianist plays an integral role and I think they are so happy to have the commitment from the two of us. Looks like we'll make some really nice friends and memories from it.

Christmas came early for me this morning when I got into work and had an email saying that the litigation proceedings I had been working on like a dog had been settled last night at a mediation! There is still a lot of work to be done to finalise everything, but that just made my year! Plus we're taking my other case (which we lost in the Court of Appeal) to the House of Lords - the equivalent of the Supreme Court in the UK. Little ol' me will be marching up to the steps of the Houses of Parliament with our pleadings in just over a month. Fantastic!

Well, I have sent out our Christmas cards, but didn't have everyone's address. Email me your address if you want one. Otherwise, I wish you and your families the Happiest Christmas ever!

Christmas is coming....

2007-12-01T07:22:00.000-08:00

Well, I decorated our flat for Christmas today. Usually it's a struggle to get Justin to help (why are men such bah humbugs?) but this year I didn't even bother. You can see he was a real help while playing the Wii....... Anyway, I put the tree and lights up, decorated everything and then wrote out all our Christmas cards! Very productive and nice to get into the spirit of things.

This year we have booked a cottage in Norfolk with Justin's family for a week. We will be gone the 21st-28th Dec and I am really looking forward to spending time together. It will be the first time we have gone away with Justin's family but I'm sure we're all going to have a great time. Watch this space!

Work was hard for both of us again this week. Not fun getting back into it..... but at least we know we just have 3 weeks to go before a nice long break again.

Thanksgiving in the Lake District

2007-11-25T07:14:00.001-08:00

The Parents are coming!!!

2007-11-16T06:34:00.000-08:00

Well I've just about made it - just have 3 more hours of work to go. Again I have recorded 60 hours this week, so it has been stressful.

Our witness proofing session went well on Monday and was interesting to see the process. But it has taken me all week to find the time to write up the attendance note and get the changes into the witness statement. I still don't think it will be done by the time I have to leave this evening - but at least we were granted an extension and do not have to file the statement until after Christmas :)

I also had to take a test on the Lloyds market yesterday - which I didn't really start studying for until Saturday...... nevermind. I'm just hoping I passed - it will be really embarressing if I don't.

But all of that will not be on my mind over the next week cuz Mom, Dad and Spencer are all coming to visit!!!!! I cannot wait to pick them up from Heathrow tomorrow. It is going to be great.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Witness Statement

2007-11-10T08:32:00.000-08:00

This week I recorded 48 chargeable hours. (My target is 32.5). When you add the non-chargeable hours I also spent in the office (12), you get 60. It would have been more but I had to leave at 6pm on Wednesday to go to a concert (more below).

It's official - I am becoming a lawyer.

I would say 40 of those hours were spent writing a 60 page witness statement from scratch. The witness statement is going to be used in one of the biggest pieces of litigation going on in the UK at the moment - basically a class action-type case against hundreds of law firms. Probably every professional negligence litigator in the country is going to read this statement.

This is not a normal task to ask of a second year trainee (not even qualified as a lawyer yet). Needless to say I have been stressed. Poor Justin took the brunt of it.... and I think I lost about 10 lbs cuz I didn't eat anything. Not sure I'm ready for that stress.

Of course the statement is going to be revised and redrafted by more qualified lawyers and barristers before it is lodged in court, but I got the words and concepts on the paper. I must admit I am proud.

Anyway - Wednesday Justin and I went to a concert of Ludivico Einaudi at the Royal Albert Hall. He is a fantastic Italian modern composer and I really enjoy playing his stuff. You can go here to find out more about his music: http://www.myspace.com/ludovicoeinaudispace

It was so nice to have 3 hours to sit and listen to beautiful music and relax (although I must admit it was hard to get work out of my mind). I really need to start learning how to cope with the stress and pressure. Otherwise I don't think I'm going to last too long.

Weald Country Park

2007-11-03T06:47:00.000-07:00

Today we had to get out and enjoy the autumn sunshine. I swear it has been warmer this autumn than it was over the summer. Pathetic! Anyway, we drove (in my Mini!) to Weald Country Park, which is just in the next town over called Brentwood.

They are going to host the mountain biking there at the 2012 Olympics. And what better place!?! It is gorgeous. I swear the trees this year have been spectacular. We always get the nice fall colours that Californians miss out on - but this year, with the warmer temps and the lack of wind, the leaves have just stayed on the trees and turned gorgeous shades of red, orange, yellow, brown. Amazing! I think we could give the northeast of the US a run for its money. (Don't tell anyone though, I don't want them all flocking to Essex and ruining our peaceful walks through the park).

I just can't believe I forgot my camera.

Court of Appeal - Part 2

2007-10-30T10:42:00.000-07:00

Today was better than yesterday. Our QC seemed to get his footing in responding to the other side's reply. I think we're going to win on two minor points, but unfortunately, it looks bleak for the main point. I think our client is going to lose on that. But nevermind, we never expected to win. And at least with this attitude, if we do win, it will be amazing!

Now it's back to the normal deskjob for the next few weeks until my parents and Spencer come for Thanksgiving. I can't wait (17 days to go). I think I will be very busy doing a supplemental disclosure list, a witness statement, trying to settle a few matters, attending a Case Management Conference.... etc. etc. My life is so exciting, isn't it :-P

Court of Appeal

2007-10-29T11:09:00.000-07:00

I have been in the Court of Appeal today and I am exhausted. I wasn't even the one making the arguments, but I am still completely drained. I don't think it was going too well either - we just seemed to go round in circles with our arguments.

But it was so exciting to be there! The barristers and judges wore their wigs and robes - which they don't normally do in the High Court anymore. You have to go that step up to the Court of Appeal I guess. This is why I became a lawyer - to have all these complex arguments about the law and really be influencing how the law is interpreted. Really neat.

It was a bit embaressing because all last week I had been preparing supplemental bundles for the judges as the barristers came up with new authorities they wanted to use. I lodged all the new authorities at Court last week, within the relevant deadlines. And did they have the bundles all ready to refer to today? Of course not - apparently their clerks never gave them the new authorities. So there was some scrambling around in trying to get 3 copies of everything for the judges.... I tell you - can't get the staff these days!

We're in for another day of it tomorrow. Will let you know how it goes.

Seagulls

2007-10-27T04:46:00.001-07:00

Today is gray day. I am sitting up in our spare bedroom (the cat's room), catching up on everyone's blogs. The kitties are asleep in their beds. All the sudden about 50 seagulls started flying around the garden outside the window. Tipsy perked right up and started making that bird noise.

Does anyone know what I mean? You know that noise that cats make when they see a bird? Kinda like a chirping noise. Anyway - she likes watching the birds, but seagulls are just as big as her so I hope she doesn't go out there and start chasing them.....

We live about 20 miles from the mouth of the Thames Estuary/English channel. We don't get a lot of seagulls where we live, but I think they come inland if there is rough water. It is kinda windy today, so I guess we're in for a storm tonight.

What a perfect fall weekend!

Bad weekend for England

2007-10-21T11:38:00.000-07:00

Well it's been a bad weekend in the history of English sport.... first the brave efforts of England's rugby team just not make it in the Rugby World Cup final with South Africa.... and then Lewis Hamilton's dire performance in Brazil at the F1 World Championships.

But it was so English. They always get their hopes up, without trying to show it. Everyone was so surprised that England even made it to the World Cup final... everyone said that South Africa was going to win (heaven forbid the English actually show some confidence in themselves). And then when South Africa won... oh... the disappointment. But nevermind. We still applaud their "bravery" and "hard work".

If this was the US, we would have been shouting them on all the way - never doubting that they would win. Maybe that little bit of confidence is what those rugby players needed - not just bravery and a stiff upper lip - but actually the "we are the best in the world and no one is going to beat us" attitude that we grow up with in the US.

In any case, it would have been more interesting to watch.

Mini-love

2007-10-14T04:26:00.000-07:00

I am in love with a car. We bought this car on ebay last week after test driving it and Justin (who knows a bit about cars) giving it the all clear. It is a 1994 Mini Mayfair and seriously, it is the coolest car in the world.

It is very zippy and loves to go around corners. It can fit into any small space that these English roads may throw at me and best of all it is an automatic!

Now, I am still planning on getting my licence in a manual car (cuz if I don't then I will be restricted to only driving automatics and I would have to do the test all over again to get a manual licence). But there is a silver lining to know that once I have that little card - I have freedom to drive my beautiful mini to my heart's content.

I have never had a car before that just the thought of makes me walk around with a big smile because I am having so much fun.

It doesn't have power steering or brakes - so you really feel like you are in control and operating a machine. But it does have a tape deck that I can use my adaptor for my ipod - the speakers are great - so I am all set!

It loves doing 50, is comfortable doing 60 and can get up to 70 (but you feel it). But it will get me to the gym/grocery store/mall no problem (and is especially fun driving down the country lanes on a sunny day).

I know you guys are all so jealous!

Professional Skills Course

2007-10-06T02:24:00.000-07:00

This week I have been on a training course that I have to complete before I can qualify as a solicitor. Mon-Wed I had training on advocacy. I had to prepare an interim application for an injunction in about an hour on Monday and then present it in front of the group and the tutor. The tutor was acting like a real judge would and interrupting to ask questions. It was pretty intense.

Then on Tuesday, we had to practice examinations-in-chief and cross-examinations. If you are doing "eics" you are not allowed to use leading questions (because it is your witness and it would look like you are the one giving the evidence as opposed to them). Let me tell you it is very difficult to only use open questions! And we were divided into two teams (prosecution and defence) and the other side were very quick to yell "Objection!" if you asked a leading question of your witness. It was pretty fun though.

Then Wed, we had to put it all together and we had a mock civil trial. My team was for the defence (the whole thing was about a case in nuisance against my client who was a farmer. His new neighbour was complaining about him using tractors and spreading muck on his fields.... really - the nerve.... on a farm!) So we were trying to prove that he was not causing a nuisance and that the claimant was just being over-sensitive and unreasonable (she did live in the country after all). Again, I had a major cross-examination of the claimant that lasted for like 30 minutes, which was actually quite fun because in CE you can ask as many leading questions as you want to try to make the witness look silly or to discredit their evidence. In the end, our team lost because it turned out our client was being a bit malicious and trying to annoy the claimant. But the claimant didn't get everything she was asking for (so I guess we won that bit).

Anyway, it was so much fun having a mock trial, even though I probably will never actually question a witness in court in real life.

At the end of this month, I have a real hearing at the Court of Appeal on a case that I have been working on since April. We first had a hearing in June at the High Court, and our client lost (starting to see a pattern). But they have now won the right to appeal and the appeal judge said it was a matter of importance because there is no law decided on this point yet. So the hearing has been expedited and is being heard by the Master of the Rolls (one of the most importance judges in the country). Very exciting stuff!

Driving a Manual

2007-09-30T05:08:00.001-07:00

I have been learning to drive a manual car so I can get my driving licence in the UK. So, besides getting used to gear changes, I also have had to learn to deal with the narrow roads, faster pace of driving, and left side of the road! Needless to say, it has been an experience and I have gradually been building up my confidence with my driving instructor over the summer.

As of 1 September, I was insured to drive J's baby - a Seat Leon Cupra, Turbo fast thing-a-mi-jig. So this month, J has been patiently helping me practice too. (Our marriage is just surviving....) But it has all paid off, because I had my lesson this morning and my instructor thinks I'm ready to book my test now!

Just need to practice a little more on the country roads as well as my reversing around a corner and parallel parking. (Can you believe that two lane country roads through the forest have a speed limit of 60 mph here?!?! If you don't get up to at least 50, they will mark you down....) I miss the wide roads of California.

Holiday in Devon

2007-09-29T05:18:00.000-07:00

So, to escape our summer blues and get ready for the autumn, we decided to take a week off and spend it walking in Devon. Now, when the British say 'walking', they really mean 'hiking'. Which is exactly what we did!

Here is a pic of the beautiful Devon coastline.

And here is me in my fabulous new wellies!

Summer Bank Holiday

2007-08-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

So we had a Bank Holiday this weekend. That just means it's an official day off work. And for once we actually had some sunshine! I know from this blog it must seem like we get plenty of sun because just below you can see us at the beach. But believe me, since then it has been raining straight for the past two weeks! What a way to spend an August..... indoors, at work, in the rain. But when the sun does come out, we do know how to enjoy it!

On Saturday, we went to a Summer Fruit Festival at this lovely orchard in Kent. We tasted fresh fruit, watched a falconry display and gawked at the Morris Dancers.

And today we went to the London Wetlands Centre to see the ducks and beautiful scenery. We all enjoyed going in the hides to see the birds in their "semi-natural" habitats. And we got almost as much of a kick out of the birdwatchers and their gear! We definitely were not as prepared as they were.

The Two Cats

2007-08-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

So, the theme of the blog is a "flat" and "two cats", therefore, we should introduce them.

Firstly there is Tom, he is 7 years old. He is quite a character with a short temper. He certainly does not like to be picked up and held! However, he does love his mummy (adopted)....... Don't be fooled by the picture, he will simply try and tear your hand/arm off if you try to touch him.

Secondly we have Tipsy who is apparently Tom's sister (but we have no proof of this). Again, she has quite her own character and is quite a sweet heart. They both have quite different personalities. Tipsy can only be held by Justin.

They keep our lives interesting with their little fights and needs. Both have had quite extensive dental work being British. We love them so much they are insured, chipped, have their own room and beds...........who knows where any children will go! They thank us by clawing our carpets, leather sofa, beds, wallpaper............. being sick on everything...... and leaving fur all over.

Isn't "parenthood" great!

A day at Margate

2007-08-18T05:33:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday (11 Aug 07) we went to Margate given it was a glorious sunny day (does happen often!). Upon arrival we went to the Shell Grotto (http://www.shellgrotto.co.uk/) which was quite amazing. No one knows who created it or its purpose.

Following this we went to the beach for the remainder of the day having good old british fish 'n' chips for lunch.

First Post

2007-08-15T08:49:00.000-07:00

Welcome friends and family to our blog!

We always enjoy checking out the blogs of our friends and recently a good friend asked me whether we have one... So here we are!

We hope you enjoy keeping up to date with our lives and we would love to hear any comments you have!