little moments

Bloom Where You are Planted

2012-01-16T11:51:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been in a kind of funk. It usually happens a couple times a month. It is an annoying visitor that knocks on my door, and most of the time, I let it in. One of my New Year goals for this year, is to turn that visitor away. I've noticed that for this year, many people want to just embrace and love life more. I think that is a goal every person should strive for. And surprise, I am one of them. Because like other people I know, change will be abundant this year for Denver and I. Here's just a few:

Graduation
Moving (hopefully)
Blooming wherever we have been planted

I have a minor confession. I have never been strong at "blooming where I've been planted". I detest change, and even detest stagnant life. I can never make up my mind, sometimes I want change, to have a new adventure, to move somewhere else, etc. Yet, when that happens, I want my old life back! It's such a ridiculous cycle. So, like I've been told a hundred times before, I need to just accept where I am now, and live with it.

"...in the strength of the Lord and through His grace, I know that you and I can be blessed to accomplish all things." --David A. Bednar

"If the Lord is to help us gain strength during our struggles, we must do the things He has counseled us to do. This involves turning to Him and applying certain principles of the gospel. Trust in Him...Follow His counsel...Ponder His promises...Take responsibility for our choices...Cultivate faith...Develop righteous desires...Deepen our commitment...Fast and pray...Remember priesthood blessings...Ponder our patriarchal blessings." --L. Lionel Kendrick

So. As I face my life this year, I will turn to the Lord more. I will take responsibility. I will ponder His promises. I will deepen my commitment to the aspects of my life. i

A Day Into 2012

2012-01-02T15:08:00.000-08:00

2012. Can't believe it's another new year. I say that every year. But it's true! Sometimes I just have to pause and marvel how fast time goes by. How different things are, how much I've "matured" (what a fun way to say growing up) and how grateful I am for everything.

How did Denver and I spend the New Year? Well, on New Year's Eve, we both had to work. We had plans to go to a friend of a friends' house after, and so that was the only thing getting me through work. So, funny story at work. We were supposed to close at ten, but our manager forgot to leave a set of keys at work, so we couldn't lock up. And for some unidentified reason, people kept thinking we were open, and wanted ice cream. I was ready to pull my hair out. Finally, our manager showed up and locked up those doors. Then I had to take apart the ice cream machines. I thought that would take five or ten minutes. It took longer because the machine decided to explode ice cream everywhere. Happy New Years! :D Needless to say, that was an experience I won't forget. But I finally got out of there and got to enjoy the rest of the night (two hours) with friends playing Apples to Apples and eating. And don't forget the fireworks. Denver and his buddies had a ball with lighting those things off, while us ladies just went inside and sat on the couch.

I apologize for not having pictures. I really am not a picture person, and I lost my charger for my camera, so until I find it, Denver is responsible for taking pictures.

As I was thinking about the New Year, I decided to make New Year Resolutions. I do this every year, and it never gets old for me. I love looking through my journal to see what goals I wanted to make throughout the years, which ones I kept up with, and ones I didn't do so hot on. So here are a few goals for 2012.

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS

Focus on the positive
Embrace change
Exercise more faith and not fear
Strengthen all the relationships in my life

So. There are some goals for me to work on this year. I wish everyone a happy start to 2012.

WHOO HOO

2011-12-17T15:20:00.000-08:00

Phew. That is all I can say. I have finished yet another semester, and it feels so good. I actually had mixed feelings this time, because I really enjoyed my classes and worked hard in them. I actually learned from my classes. Weird. Anyway, I worked super hard and I got A's and B's. So satisfying.

Now, I think I can finally get excited for Christmas. It still hasn't hit me that it's so close. It's weird, just haven't felt much of the Holiday Spirit this year. Hopefully that will change, because Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year. We will see.

Just a little tradition...

2011-11-26T08:11:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I had the amazing opportunity to go to Time Out For Women for our church with my mom, aunt, my aunt's mother and sister, and my brother's girl friend. It was such an amazing weekend, complete with wonderful speakers and music. My mom and I started this tradition a year ago, and now we just love it. If you haven't had the opportunity to go to this event, I strongly encourage it. It's a great time to spend time with those you love, and to have a sweet escape from the hustle and bustle of the world for a few hours. And, it's totally worth it.

This year, we went to the session in Salt Lake City, and we got to hear speakers, such as Brad Wilcox, Sheri Dew, Hilary Weeks, Wendy Ulrich, Emily Watts, Michael Wilcox, Stephanie Neilson, and Laurel Christensen. These men and women were so inspiring to listen to. If you haven't heard of Stephanie Neilson's story, it is truly inspiring. She and her husband were severely burned in an airplane crash about three years ago, and hearing her story of how she had to move on with her life and accept her new life was a real tear jerker. I'm not kidding, in a room of thousands of women, I think everyone was crying when she spoke. Anyway, all these speakers really helped me have a spiritual boost, and I really needed it. Here are a couple of quotes from some of the speakers.

"One who chooses Christ chooses to be changed" --Brad Wilcox

"Some things are simply more important than others" --Sheri Dew

"The secret to becoming is learning" --Michael Wilcox

"Where you are today is no surprise to God. He knew this would be your plan A." --Laurel Christensen

(Side-note on the last quote, Laurel's story was about how she had different plans for her life, and how she came to realize she was where she was supposed to be. It was a great talk, a favorite among our group).

The music was provided by Hilary Weeks and Jericho Road. I loved hearing Jericho Road because I listened to them all the time as a teenager and I've LOVED them ever since. And I've just started to listen to Hilary Weeks about a year ago and am in love with her music as well. And I just loved every second of it.

Needles to say, it was a great weekend. A pleasant break from school, but a great boost to get me through the last three weeks. It was just so wonderful to spend time with my family, especially my mom and dad. Sometimes it's hard being grown up, and not being with my parents all the time. Of course, I wouldn't change anything for the world on where I am now, but I sure miss my parents. They are so wonderful, and I appreciate very much on all that they do for me. Thanks mom :)

My Bucket List Getaway

2011-11-10T12:54:00.000-08:00

This is my entry in the Just Ask Bucket List Getaway Giveaway. Just Ask offers a breast and ovarian cancer screening and is encouraging people to share 15 things that I want to enjoy in my lifetime as a reminder to be aware of my health. Want to enter? Head over to TodaysMama.com to get the details.

My Bucket List

Visit Italy
Visit Ireland
Learn how to cook like Julia Child
Learn how to bake bread
Learn how to better serve my fellowmen
Go skydiving (I know, I know, it's clique but I've always wanted to do this)
Go on a cruise to Alaska
Get a puppy for Christmas
Ride on a subway
When I have kids, I hope to live to see them grow up
Learn to accept failure as an experience to grow
To live each day with passion and vigor
Visit the Eiffel Tower
Visit the Ancient Pyramids of Egypt
To go on a backpacking trip through Europe

it's a bright kind, sunshiny day

2011-11-01T20:50:00.001-07:00

I had one of those moments today when I was reallyoverwhelmed. I'm not talking about looking at my planner and realizing I had a million and one things to do. I'm talking about waking up way early (ok, more like 6:15) to finish up some homework and finding out that we forgot to pay our internet bill, so I couldn't get on the internet. Then, having a minor meltdown because my homework wasn't finished in time for class, and wouldn't be able to submit. (No worries, I talked to my teacher, and he was understanding and allowed me to still submit the homework). Then, everything seemed to pile on my shoulders in my first class. I knew when I signed up for the class (a 400 level class) that my workload would be plentiful, but man oh man I underestimated it. I left the class in tears. I couldn't believe how much work I had to do for that one class, on top of my other four classes, who were also in need of my attention. Needless to say, I was a emotional wreck. I went home. And I had an hour and half to before my next class to pull myself together.

In the midst of my anxiety, I decided that because I couldn't get on the internet still, or go up on campus quite yet, I needed a bubble bath. Here is one confession of mine, I adore bubble baths. And it always helps me relax and get a grip with reality. One of my favorite pastimes is taking a bubble bath with a book. Today, that book happened to be, "Life is Short. Wear Your Party Pants" by Loretta LaRoche. I got the book forever ago on the clearance shelf in Barnes and Noble. At the time, I thought the title was funny, and since Ms. LaRoche is a professional speaker on the subject of stress relieving, I bought it. Anyway, today the book was a perfect choice. During those moments of my bubble bath, it was reconfirmed to me to live in the moment. stress is good. take a chill pill. Ms. LaRoche has a wonderful sense of humor, and the few pages I read helped me calm down tremendously. She re-enforced me to reevaluate my priorities, and how I view myself. Of course, Ms. LaRoche is no substitute for apostles, or our prophet, but it helped in the same way. And I was grateful all the same.

One of the ideas she mentioned was to stop self-fllaguating yourself. She said if we listened to that inner voice within us every time it puts us down, imagine those put downs as whip marks on your back. A little gruesome, but it made the point that is it really worth it? We don't need to constantly be putting ourselves down, because we are doing the best we can. Step by step, day by day we get better. And we should recognize that instead of always punishing ourselves.

So it's Tuesday. Meltdown? Check. Recovery from meltdown? Check. Optimism for the rest of the week? Done.

Adult begins with A

2011-10-11T08:52:00.000-07:00

So. I'm constantly telling Denver that maybe I shouldn't have a blog, because I feel I have nothing really exciting to share. I don't have kids, I'm not doing anything but school and work. Of course, being the wonderful husband he is, Denver tells me that I do have something to share, that I am still living a worthwhile life. Thanks honey.

Pondering what that really met--living a worthwhile life--brought me to the conclusion that even though I don't have kids at this time in my life and all I'm doing is getting an education, that's still worth something. Something some people in this world only dream about. And I am grateful.

Being in school does give me the chance to connect what I'm learning in class to real life. Pretty much the purpose right? So in my English class we have to write a magazine. And this week we had to think about what our magazine should be about. I wasn't in the mood to have our magazine be about dating, or anything like that. So I suggested it be about "Discovering You." I wanted this magazine to be a magazine about discovering who you are, right now, at this time in your life. I wanted to explore how to really and truly find yourself, and be happy with who you are. Of course, this all leads to my own personal life. Being in your twenty's is hard. You're technically an adult, but still yearn to call mom and have her take care of all your troubles. And being married in your twenty's...yes, that qualifies you as an adult. So since I have no kids, this is what is on my mind. Learning to be comfortable with myself and figuring out who I even want to be. Am I really doing things that make me happy? Am I making adult decisions? How am I handling those decisions? What am I doing to improve myself, and what am I doing to strengthen my testimony? Of course, I don't have any of these questions figured out right now. I'm still sorting them and processing them in my mind. I'm hoping this magazine will help me out--because my group thought that this was a great idea.

So. Getting an education here at school really is helping me become an adult. Being married is helping me become more adult-like in my thought process, and through my actions. Maybe none of this is relevant to anyone else, but to me, it's my life. I figure, being at my age, we're through being teenagers. It is time to grow up. And this applies to being at school, fulfilling church callings, and work responsibilities. I'm realizing that hey, I am an adult, and I have to act like it. Certain situations at work have opened my eyes that there are problems happening at work that aren't acceptable. And I'm the adult. So, find a solution! I can't have my mom call my manager and have her explain the problems I'm facing. I have to talk to my manager to find solutions. It's such a new experience, and it's making me realize that I'd like to be a kid again :)

Overall, this blog is a chance for me to outlet my feelings. And that's enough for me.

A little bit of family...

2011-09-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

I had the rare opportunity to wake up earlier than usual and just lay in bed and think. Scary for 8:00 in the morning, I know. But of course the first thought was how much I am grateful for family. I just thought about how abundantly blessed I am to have an eternal marriage. How blessed I am to have wonderful parents. How blessed I am to have a valiant, faithful missionary brother. How blessed to have another special set of parents, and for the first time in my life sisters. And more brothers :). I just know Heavenly Father was watching out for me when He led me to my parents, and when I got married. That was my number one worry from the get go about marriage, the haunting question if I would get along with my husband's parents. Silly worry.

And so, as I lay in bed, I got wrapped up in the conversation my mom and I had yesterday about marriage. I told her that marriage wasn't what I expected it to be, and she had asked how so. I didn't really have a definite answer, only that nothing really ever prepares you for it, and that it is so much harder than you think! I remember in Young Women's, how my leaders always made marriage sound like this fairy tale story. Maybe they mentioned it was hard work as well, I don't remember. But they made it sound like when you get married, it's a free ride from there. So I assumed that things would be easier, rather than harder. Ha!

Of course, marriage is one of the best things that ever happened to me. And it's a lot of fun! I have a husband whose number one goal in life is to make me laugh and smile. I also have a husband who for some reason, leaves his socks all over the apartment. Or has this slight addiction to computer games. :) But I love Denver and all his little quirks. That's the beauty about marriage, you really do come to know your eternal companion each day. And I thank my mom for telling me that marriage is hard work. I really do appreciate that. You have to earn happiness by keeping the commandments and living faithfully. I have a testimony of that.

I love family. I have always loved what that word means. And I have always been super close to my family. I know families can be together forever. And I love the word "can". They don't say families will be together forever, because that implies it's a free ride. Families CAN be together if everyone works together to support each other and love each other.

Needless to say, I am abundantly blessed. And I try each day to thank Heavenly Father for what He has given me, by being the best daughter I can be. Love that family tie.

and the countdown begins...

2011-08-30T09:55:00.000-07:00

so...School begins in a mere two weeks. I can say I'm definitely ready for it. I've always been excited for school to start. I love getting new school supplies, notebooks, pens, pencils, binders. Sometimes I even get those big pink erasers just because I like them. It feels more like school when it's in the fall. When the semester starts in April, it just doesn't feel the same. But September...yeah, that's when you're supposed to start school.

This is my second to last semester of college. I am way pumped. This semester should be very hard, but super fun. I have my last batch of humanities (minor) classes, and my last load of English (major) classes. I am also hopefully going to be ushering at the school devotionals. Haven't heard back from them yet, but hopefully everything should work out. I've also got an idea of what I would like to do with my degree. If it pans out, I would like to work at a school as an English tutor. Elementary, middle, or high school, it doesn't matter much to me. Two of my best friends are currently teachers, and it made me realize I really didn't have a goal of what I wanted to do. I didn't want to take the easy road. Even though that's more of what I'm comfortable with, I've realized I really need to step out of my comfort zone and actually make some goals. I want to look back on my life and at least recognize I made goals and went for them. Scary...all this grown up planning.

As I drive through the streets of this little town, I realize how much my life has changed in four years. Can you say a lot? I always used to brush off the whole idea of how college matures you and all that. And how being at a church school was all about getting a spiritual education. Well, now that I am older and wiser (thank goodness) I realize the wisdom of those ideas. Yes, I am more mature after my freshman semester. I am more focused in my life. My life then...consisted of having fun, enjoying classes, and of course, boys. Now..I am married to the most wonderful man I could have asked my Heavenly Father for. I am way more focused on school, and our life together. Good heavens it is hard! Keeping my life is neatly compact piles of school, work, wifely duties, church, it really tires me out. Is it worth it? Absolutely. My spiritual nature has also grown. I am constantly thanking my Heavenly Father for all the opportunities I've had to grow. My testimony has grown. I've realized that being on my own two feet, and now four =) that I really have to stand up for myself in order to get my life where I want it to be.

Deep thinking for a 22 year old? Probably to some. But to me, this is what I think of everyday. How my mom always has to tell me to "bloom where I was planted" because I've been sick of this tiny town for a long time. Everyday I tell myself I'm one day closer to graduating. One day closer to the next chapter of my life. One day closer to looking back and kicking myself for being so eager to end school. So..bring it on! =)

back to reality...

2011-08-22T11:44:00.000-07:00

Denver and I just got done with a week and a half long vacation of fun and sun. First we spent some time celebrating our anniversary in Vegas baby! (pictures to come later). Then we headed out to see his parents in California for a week. What a relaxing vacation, full of fun, sun and family. The only bad thing about the vacation was getting a sunburn on my neck. This happened during our excursion to Santa Cruz on the boardwalk. We were in the sun all day and silly me, I keep forgetting how delicate my skin is. It hasn't been exposed to sun for a while. But it's ok now, just looks like I have a skin disease on my neck :D

Now we are back to reality. Errands to run, fridge to stock, and back to work. You always need a vacation to remind you how blessed you are. And how life is really not bad and you have nothing to complain about. :D

A Day in the Life of Bree.....

2011-07-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

I've really enjoyed reading the daily posts about what someone does during a normal day. Capturing the daily, non important things. So I decided to give it a try. Here goes.

First...I do my scripture study. Recently I've

been reading the General Conference talks. Today I read Sister Mary N. Cook's "Remember This: Kindness Begins with Me." I really enjoy reading the conference talks. It makes my day go so much better.

Second...I try to do a little 'me' time. I write to my brother Brady who is on his mission in Peru. I also love to read, so right now I'm reading "Anne of Green Gables." I love Anne. She makes me laugh. I love when she says, "Isn't it wonderful that there are so many things to enjoy in this world."

Third..Cleaning. I wish there was a cleaning fairy to help me every now and then. My least favorite thing to clean is the bathroom. My favorite thing is vacuuming. Weird, I know. But I enjoy having a clean house more than anything, so I stick with it. Maybe one of these days Denver will find his joy for cleaning. :D

Fourth... I go to work. And it always helps to have a smile on my face. People do appreciate a smile, I'll tell you that. You meet interesting people too at work. There are the cute old grandpa's who eat there almost everyday. I know two regular customers now, and I have stepped out of my comfort zone to have conversations with them. There are the mom's with four kids that come every other day, and those who just need people to talk to. I enjoy that part of work.

Procrastination...

2011-07-11T11:44:00.000-07:00

This is my curse. I never used to be like this, mind you. Back in high school, I always tried to get A's and B's only. The thought of not doing homework was criminal. Not paying attention in class was appalling. And not having a good attitude? Well that was simply unforgivable. Now, a mere four years later since graduating high school, I have seemed to forget that high standard I used to keep. Procrastination has become my own worst enemy. And my best friend. I can't go anywhere without it.

As I am yet writing another research paper (due tomorrow), I have to take a moment to pause and reflect on my short life. In high school, if I had a paper due, I would knock it out of the way as soon as I could. I was always two steps ahead of everything. Now? I'm lucky to get it done the morning of. Not the best method to live by, I know. I have to ask myself where my motivation has gone. I love learning, but lately, I just am done with the whole thing. Must be the senior blues. I have only two semesters left, and instead of enjoying every last minute of college, I just can't wait for it to be over.

I have always been like this though. Once I get seriously fed up with something, I have a seriously hard time letting go of that thorn in the rose. I can only see that thorn. And believe me, I will let it push into me as far as I will let it go. I am the champion of the whole "the grass must be greener on the other side" mantra. I know this is one of my weaknesses. I know having a whole "the glass is half full" is the way to go. And I know I will look back on these four years of college and beg to have these years back. I'm not stupid. But living in the moment can be hard. And right now, with finals a week from today to look forward to, finishing this last paper, being cheerful is seriously lacking with me.

Other than end of the semester woes, life is good. Still trying to find out who I really am, all that good stuff that comes with being 22. Trying to figure life out, accepting my true purpose in life, deep stuff. That's a blessing with being a member of the Church. You know your true purpose. You have the map of life. You just have to follow it. And believe me, we all make it so much harder than it is. But along the way, we find our moments of pleasure, triumph, and joy. I will feel all three of these by tonight when I have typed that last sentence of my paper. Because, as we all know, I will put off this paper until the very last minute of the day.

Life Lately

2011-06-21T15:44:00.001-07:00

I suppose it's time for another post. Yes, I realize it has been quite a while since my last one. I had forgotten how crazy my life gets when a new semester starts up again. So much reading, writing papers, and crazy little assignments. And of course working. I really have started to miss that time in Virginia. I knew I would. But, all in all, things have been going ok for Denver and I. Once we got our grant money in April, we were able to breathe a bit easier and finally settle into the same old routine. A few things that have been noteworthy:

Denver got called as Elder's Quorum Secretary (again) and I got called as a Relief Society pianist
We have actually been home taught and my visiting teachers have been very warm and open
Denver and I were able to go to California in May for his brother's mission homecoming
My brother left for his mission to Peru
I have written too many papers and assignments to count
I have started running again with my friend Emily.
Eight of my friends are pregnant
Three of my friends are now engaged
One of my friends got married, and I was able to fly home to be there for her

Well, nothing too exciting, but it is what it is. My birthday is next week, and Denver is promising me he will find a perfect gift. Silly boy. He is also in the process of planning something for our anniversary. We've discussed a few options, such as a long weekend in Moab, Salt Lake, or St. George. As long as we're together, it doesn't matter what we do. It will be 2 years in August, how time flies.

I guess I should go write my research paper. It's due tomorrow. :)

Spring-a-ling-de-doo!

2011-04-23T10:57:00.000-07:00

Ahh...it seems like spring is finally here. It never feels quite like spring until Easter arrives. And with it being Easter weekend, I feel very comfortable and at peace.

“In our hour of deepest sorrow, we can receive profound peace from the words of the angel that first Easter morning: ‘He is not here: for he is risen.’”

With each passing year,I grow to have a deeper understanding of Christ and His life. His mortal ministry, and the Atonement. I can never express how grateful I am for Him, because my heart would either burst, or I would run out of words to say. But, I am so thankful for the Easter season. It is a wonderful reminder of hope, faith, and love.

This new semester has started off quite challenging for us. Or maybe just me--because Denver can adjust to anything in a heartbeat it seems. Our grant money didn't arrive when it was supposed to--so we really didn't have money to buy groceries or anything. And not having anything to eat really takes a toll on you! Especially when you work fast food, and everyone around you is eating. :) Anyway, we got that problem resolved, and we went grocery shopping last night. I will never again take for granted a fully stocked fridge, or shelves. I think this was a test for me--to see how I would handle difficult situations. Like I haven't had enough of those already :) Either way, I'm glad I am able to eat and have concentration for school.

Our new apartment is shaping up! Pictures will be coming soon--I promise. We FINALLY got a shower curtain and a trashcan today. Crazy how the little things are so important to us, and how we think we can't survive without them. So showers will regain in this household. Taking baths took too long! :)

Well for this Saturday I will do some more homework, and hopefully finish my new favorite book series, "The Hunger Games". I'm currently on the last book, and can't wait to see what happens next! If you like to read, I'd recommend these.

HAPPY EASTER!!

new life

2011-03-14T12:38:00.001-07:00

It may be cliche to take a picture of a blossoming tree, but I was so excited to see the trees outside of our apartment greeting spring! I just had to capture the moment. These trees are all over the city, so whenever Denver and I take one of our daily drives to the store, mall, or errands, this wonderful sight is always pleasant to see. It's strange to think that we have only two more weeks in this part of our life. Denver's internship has been a success for him, because now he really knows what part of advertising he really wants to do. (And making tons of phone calls, and being a "secretary" is not what he wants). That was his response when I asked him what he does all day during the days at his internship. :)

Today has been a peaceful sort of day. Just mellow. (I'm listening to "Make it With You" by Bread. Sums up that mellow-like feeling). We had to do our laundry, and we found another laundromat to do it in. One that was much more cleaner and may I be so bold as to say less-ghetto as the other one we had been going to. May not seem very exciting, but it was to me. Denver also treated me to Panera for lunch while we waited for the laundry to finish. What a sweet guy. I really do love him!!

Saturday we celebrated Denver's birthday. He wanted to see the movie "Battle L.A." and go to dinner, so we did just that. Denver's friend from CA, Chris, joined us. We went to Longhorn Steakhouse for dinner because Denver was craving some real meat to eat. As for the movie, he was content seeing L.A. being destroyed. What a monkey. On Sunday after church, Chris and his sister Andrea invited us to go to one of the parks out here, Mermount Park or something like that. It's huge, over 100 acres of beautiful park. I forgot to take my camera (no surprise there) so no pictures. Maybe we'll give it another visit before we leave.

Well, there was just a little quick update on what's been happening. Somebody is coming to look at our apartment today. Cross your fingers, we've already had two people back out on us. Third time's the charm right??

just thinking

2011-02-16T10:17:00.000-08:00

It's been a little challenging to think of what to post these past couple of months, just because not a whole lot has been happening here. Other than Denver's internship, and church, we haven't really ventured out and explored. But we are doing pretty well. Denver is really enjoying his internship. I think he's feeling quite grown-up. :) Church out here is a tiny little branch which is unique. We have made friends, the only other young couple in the branch, which was a great blessing. I was about to go crazy. We haven't been able to get jobs, which was something I was anticipating. No one wants to hire people for only a few months. So we've had to budget extremely well.

For Valentine's Day, Denver got me two movies. Movies are the other love of my life, so Denver has kept a track of the ones I'd watched on Netflix. I couldn't stop talking about a cute 80's movie that I'd watched, Peggy Sue Got Married. So Denver was sneaky and ordered it for me. He also got me the movie Valentine's Day. How appropriate!

I figured out the other day Denver and I have been married for a year and half. That is beyond crazy. We've learned a lot about each other, and continue to do so. We've been through a lot of moves, but it's been an adventure. I love you Denver! :)

A Whole New World

2011-01-07T09:25:00.000-08:00

Well...it's almost been a week since we've moved to Virginia. It's been quite a bumpy ride already. When we first moved in, our apartment was FREEZING! And, we didn't have electricity. Apparently there was some miscommunication between the apartment complex and the power company. So, we spent the first day or so without light, warmth, or running water. Great housewarming gift, right? Anyway, we finally got everything settled and now are able to enjoy the luxuries of a warm shower, blessed light, and a warm apartment. So I think for now, we are finally getting settled and are taking time to explore our new city. It's quite different from what I'm used to at least. We live near downtown, across the bridge. So it's kind of like living in a mini Brooklyn, and being across the bridge from Manhattan. But of course, on a much smaller scale. :) It's a whole new world from Rexburg, that's for sure.

So here are some pictures of the apartment. Denver and I do have one of our dreams fulfilled-of living in an apartment with exposed brick (even though it's painted over with white paint) and having hardwood floors (painted over with a brownish beige color) and high exposed ceilings. It's not a very big apartment, but will be perfect for the three months we live here. The building itself is pretty cool, it used to be an old tobacco factory and is now renovated for apartment living. Anyway, it's a pretty cozy little nook. Our kitchen has plenty of storage space, our bathroom is huge, and Denver now has a mancave. I know he's pretty happy about that! :) Our furniture was all bought from thrift stores around the city for pretty cheap. Our couch was only $10 (Denver's friend Chris is going to let us use his steam cleaner. I'm still nervous to sit on it :-), and we got our little table set for $70 including the chairs. Denver was able to find a desk for his computer for $5. And our adorable little entertainment center was found at Goodwill for $25. I think we got some pretty good bargains. Our bedroom looks a little sad, but oh well. Not much we can do about that!

Anyway, this is the next adventure in Denver and I's life. I hope it will be great!

what a way to end...

2010-12-15T17:10:00.001-08:00

Yes, I know it's been quite a few days since I've blogged (understatement of the year). Since my last post, Thanksgiving has come and gone, Denver and I have sold our apartment contract, got the news of Denver's internship, (happy day!!!) found an apartment in VA, put in our last days at work, finished all our classes, and bought a pony. (just kidding about that last one) Been busy? Oh yes. Right now, I'm taking a break from studying for finals. Let me tell you, I HATE studying for tests. I've always been so stressed about tests, and this week has about done me in. I can't tell you how many definitions I've read over and over, how many hairs I've pulled out of my head, or how many dishes I FINALLY put away in the dishwasher. But, the end is near and I'm taking my last two finals tomorrow and Friday. And then, I will be able to breathe. PSYCHE!

I sure wish I'll be able to breathe on Friday, yet our packing adventure will begin. Oh joy. Although I'm dead tired while typing this, I am very happy. Because this semester has been one filled with so much knowledge and learning, that I am happy to be alive and have a brain inside of my head. I love learning, and this is why I love school. Just not right now :)

Anyway, once this week passes, I'll be able to breathe and look forward to Christmas!!! And Denver's and I new adventure into the unknown. Once again. All for the best though, I know.

Count your many blessings

2010-11-05T07:22:00.001-07:00

So I realize this post is long overdue! Denver and I have been pretty busy this last month, and will continue to be for the rest of the semester. Happily, we got pretty good midterm grades which means we're doing something right! I know I promised forever ago pictures of our new apartment. Those will be coming soon. For now, I love the fall weather and all the decorations that are all around us. Here's just a quick glimpse of the thanksgiving fever in my apartment.

These blocks were a present from my mom. I sure love them! Thanks mom! :) So is the picture pillow. Every month there is a new quilt picture to put on the pillow, and they make me smile every time I put them up. The vase I filled with these plastic jelly-like acorns and stuff, another gift from my mom. I added the bow myself! I felt pretty domestic.

Well, Thanksgiving is such a wonderful time of year. We have the opportunity to express how grateful we are for all the blessings in our life. Of course, it should always be happening, but how wonderful to have a day that honors it. We should never forget to thank the Lord for all we have, because we owe Him everything because He gave us everything.

Well, that's all for now. I have to study for a test :( Promise my next post won't be in another two months. :)

Wake Me Up When September Ends

2010-09-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite songs by Green Day. I just love it! I also love the title-it totally sums up how I feel about classes starting again and getting back in the routine :)

This fall semester I am taking 3 English classes, a humanities class (because it's my minor) 1 religion D&C class, and a racquetball class. I am loving all my classes so far, and Denver and I are taking the D&C class and racquetball together. It's a lot of fun to have him in my classes. Except attempting to play racquetball in front of him. Then he makes fun of me. But other than that it's a joy. :)

I was able to attend Time Out For Women a couple of weekends ago with my mom, aunt, and my aunt's sister and mother. It was in Logan, so I didn't have to drive too far. It was a great experience, and I am so blessed I was able to attend. I loved being able to hear talks by Sheri Dew and Brad Wilcox to name a few. I am also in love with my new favorite LDS singer, Dallin Vail Bayles. (Don't tell Denver! :)) I also loved spending time with my mom. I sure love her and can't thank her enough for all she does for me.

Well, anyway, that's enough about me for now. Gotta go to class.

Satan in today's world

2010-08-30T11:47:00.000-07:00

So I was reading my sister in law, Shannon's blog earlier and read about the shooting of a Mormon Bishop in Visalia, CA. So of course, I read about it on the internet and cried the entire time. It made me sick to think that someone actually just walked into the church building and shot an innocent person, with no motive (at least that's how it seems.) My heart and prayers definitely go to that Bishop's family. I marvel at what this world has come to. I only pray that we can have the strength and courage to face whatever comes our way during our lives here on earth. Moments and tragedies like this remind us of how short life is, and how we need to cherish the moments we have.

Our One Year Anniversary!

2010-08-14T15:30:00.000-07:00

August 14th. Kind of strange to think that this is the day of our anniversary now and for the rest of our lives. So Denver and I have been married for one year, and so far, it has been wonderful. I have learned a lot (maybe that is an understatement!) about Denver this past year, and vice versa, he with me. We have had to learn to coexist peacefully with each other. We have been doing a pretty good job. No one ever tells you how hard marriage is going to be. Time and time again I wish there could be a handbook on how to deal with every situation that comes our way. But then again, we would never really learn anything now would we? On the other hand, I also never knew it was possible to love someone as much as I love Denver. Not the cheesy love you normally see in movies, but the real deep love and respect that comes from two people. And every moment Denver smiles at me, or hugs me, (or even kisses me :)) I just know my world is all right. And that we can really overcome any obstacle or trial we may face. I am so lucky to have him as my husband and partner. I love you Denver!

4th of July!

2010-07-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

So I am horrible at remembering to document important events in Denver's and mine life. So there are really not many pictures of my birthday or anything. Oh well. Denver and I celebrated my birthday on Wednesday, because he had to work Thursday night. So we celebrated dinner at Olive Garden. For my birthday I didn't do much, just went to a Patriotic/Pioneer concert thing up at school for my F.A 100 class. But thank you to everyone who remembered my birthday and sent me birthday love! :)

This morning there was a parade in town, so Denver and I went with our friends Emilie and Jordan. It was pretty neat. Then we had a late breakfast at J.B's. It was delicious! We had decided to ride our bikes to the parade instead of driving. The best decision we ever made!

Well only 3 more weeks of school left! Boy, am I ready for the semester to end. I can't wait to go to Las Vegas this summer with my family, then to California. It will be a nice well deserved break. :)

I promise my next blog will display pictures of our new place, I just have to keep the place clean long enough to remember! :)

Family Ties

2010-06-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

This weekend Denver and I got to fly to Nebraska to see my brother, Brady graduate. I was super excited to go home and see my family. Denver and I were able to attend Brady's graduation party, go to the actual graduation, and go out to dinner afterward. I didn't get any pictures because my camera was dead when we got there. (Funny how the important things never get documented) But everyone had a great time and I got my small dose of wonderful Nebraska weather humidity and all. I loved it.

Note: Brady is going to be attending BYU in the fall. I forgot the title of his major, but he is going to medical school. I am so unbelievably proud of him.

As I've been married I'm beginning to realize how different it is from being single. Meaning I don't get to see my family much, and sometimes I get pretty sad about it. But I realize that before long, Denver and I will settle into a routine. And we will be able to spend time with both families, and it will get easier. And I've realized how much I love Denver! :D And how much Denver loves me. And I guess I couldn't really ask for anything more!

The Roaring Twenties

2010-05-17T17:11:00.000-07:00

I've been doing lots of thinking lately. Thinking how most of your maturity comes when you're in your twenties. I look at my life and know I haven't done anything way spectacular yet. But I've come to realize how much life really does consist of learning and growing each day. I'm also beginning to learn the importance of self, self-worth, the power of women. I've been reading in Sherri Dew's book, "No Doubt" and have been slowly gaining more self-confidence as my role as a wife and eventually mother. There is a huge difference between women in the world, and not of the world. Twenties are definitely the time to figure out who you want to strive to become. I have this poem by Dr. Suess, and it pretty much sums up with what I'm striving to do each day.

You
"Today you are you. That is truer than true. There is no one alive that is You'er than you. Shout aloud, "I am glad to be what I am, thank goodness I'm not a ham or a clam or a dusty old bottle of gooseberry jam! I am what I am. What a great thing to be. If I say so myself, "Happy everyday to me!"

Good old Dr. Suess.

just look at me now

2010-04-07T16:04:00.001-07:00

So I decided to post a picture of me in my work uniform. If you would have asked me five years ago if I would have considered working fast food, I would have answered, "NO WAY!" I'm thinking I've been humbled some since then. Besides, I look too cute to not like my job. And today was the first day I felt confident in what I was doing, so whoo-hoo! Guess I'll keep my job :)

uniforms and french fries

2010-03-31T08:20:00.000-07:00

Here's a little update on the lives of two college students. End of the term homework and finals to finish up. Next week is the last week of the semester. I'm sure happy to move on to a new semester, and be rid of the horrible winter weather here. I am craving sunshine and warmness!

If this isn't a little help from up above, I don't know what is. Denver and I both got called with job offers the same day about a week ago. Denver got to return to his old job, and I am now blessed with the job of a fast food worker. Denver is settling quite well into his work schedule, and I'm doing OK. So far, this week has been my first week on the job. My days are short so far, I'm just getting trained. I'm now seeing firsthand, the behind the scenes at working at a fast food restaurant. Can't say I love it, can't say I hate it. It will be a huge adjustment. It's a little hard being the only new employee, not everyone is the friendliest, but I am blessed with a patient manager who praised me highly for making my first ice cream cone. (And didn't laugh at me when I didn't hold down the lid while making a shake, which then proceeded to explode all over me). So as we can see, I have a long way to go. It is a little intimidating with all I have to learn (and remember!) but this morning I was reading in Mosiah 23:28 and it basically said to "hush your fears." I'm thinking that is my new motto for a while.

Well, this next semester will be a busy one. With both Denver and I taking classes and working, it will be a new experience. But life is full of new experiences, they never leave you.

100 Things you Didn't Know About Me

2010-03-04T09:33:00.001-08:00

So I stole this from one of Shannon's blogs, (thanks for the idea Shannon!) and I liked it so much I've decided to give it a go. And plus, there's probably a lot of stuff people don't know about me, so this is a way you can get to know me. Here goes!

100. I am deathly afraid of balloons popping.
99. My favorite cereal is Lucky Charms, especially when I save the marshmellows until the very end.
98. I hate listening to the radio.
97. I love old school music from the 60's, 70's, and especially 80's.
96. I hate rap music with a passion. I just don't understand the point of it.
95. I absolutely adore sunshine and warm weather.
94. I picked the wrong place to go to school for that :D
93. I once had maroon highlights in my hair and quite liked it like that.
92. I passed out at homecoming and had to go to the hospital.
91. I was member of a dance team for about four years.
90. The only pets I've ever had have been turtles and a betta fish.
89. I want to travel Europe one day.
88. I have a passion for English Literature.
87. My major is English, with an emphasis in creative writing.
86. I enjoyed growing up in my hometown.
85. My favorite place in the whole world is Magna, Utah.
84. I love going to parks, national and just regular ones. I love to swing!
83. I have always had friend-like relationships with my teachers.
82. Most of my friends are adults. I like it that way.
81. I once broke my collarbone playing Red Rover.
80. I adore movies from the 80's, such as Footloose, Dirty Dancing, Maid to Order, Manniquen, The Goonies.
79. I am scared of snakes and bees.
78. I've been stung by bees twice, and a wasp once.
77. I've always wanted to work with the elderly.
76. I have a dad who was always willing to go to Victoria's Secret with me. What a sport.
75. As a kid, I participated in many activities, such as track and field, ballet, tap, jazz, clogging, gymnastics, soccer, volleyball. I settled for dance, but I can still kick butt in volleyball.
74. I hate competition.
73. I don't care for driving.
72. I always wanted to be an astronaut.
71. I love space. It's so fascinating.
70. I once blew up a glass pan on a stove in college.
69. I have a slight shoe and purse fettish. :D
68. I love John Frieda shampoo, it smells so good.
67. I have been to most of the U.S. such as OR, CA, WY, ID, UT, MO, NE, MT, CO, CT, DE, DC, FL, IL, IN, IA, KS, MI, MN, MD, NV, OK, PA, RI, SD, TX, VA, WI, HI. (mom, if I've missed any let me know :D)
66. I have also been to Canada(forgot where) and the Bahamas.
65. I once had a job as the annoying person who calls you and asks you to take a survey.
64. In 6th grade we got to go to camp for 2 days. I was the only one who got to use the zip line because I was the tiniest.
63. I text a lot. I always had to pay my parents back for going over my texts.
62. I worked at a grocery store back home for 4 years.
61. I almost always have my toenails painted.
60. I almost never have my fingernails painted.
59. I usually only wear modest earrings, maybe a necklace, and my wedding bands for jewelry.
58. I have played the piano since I was 5.
57. I have been skiing once with my brother and dad.
56. I have been snowboarding once with my husband.
55. Sometimes it's unreal to me that I'm married.
54. Hospitals make me sweat.
53. I HATE the dentist, my teeth were so bad as a kid I was always having work done.
52. I have a large movie collection of chick flicks.
51. I am a movie trivia whiz.
50. Math was my worst subject in school.
49. My mom is my best friend.
48. I am adopted.
47. I hate racial jokes and always put a stop to them when I hear them.
46. I am afraid of tornadoes.
45. The only thing I have ever won was Media Mystery Winner in the fourth grade and won a book. That was the greatest prize of all.
44. I love to read.
43. I once asked my 5th grade teacher what the deal was about holding up your middle finger. He said to ask my parents.
42. I had a 6th grade teachers who every Friday wore red shoes and performed headstands on the table. He was my favorite.
41. My favorite thing to do at recess in elementary school was to play soccer.
40. I thought my neighborhood was the safest place on earth. Still do.
39. I love horses.
38. I once broke up with a guy before Valentine's Day. He left dead roses on my driveway.
37. I always enjoy watching Last of the Mochians because of Daniel Day Lewis.
36. I fainted at a haunted house up at school.
35. I wish I could have lived in the 80's.
34. I once tripped and fell on my face in front of many of my friends.
33. I love musicals and classic movies.
32. I loved being outside as a kid. Now I love my air conditoned apartment more.
31. Bubble baths always de-stress me.
30. Whenever I'm alone in my car I crank up the Backstreet Boys.
29. I still like the 90's boybands, such as Backstreet Boys, N'SYNC, and 98 Degrees.
28. My favorite Disney movie is Beauty and the Beast.
27. I have been to many national momuments.
26. I always have to have a candle burning in my apartment.
25. I played on a floor hockey team in college and will never do it again.
24. My minor is history. I have always enjoyed history.
23. I think my brother is one of the most amazing people I have ever known.
22. My first car was a 1997 Toyota Camry. I loved that car.
21. I think patriotism is extremely important and is dying in America.
20. My mom and my favorite treat is cinnamon crunch bagels with hazelnut cream cheese from Panera Bread.
19. My favorite type of food is Italian.
18. I am not a huge fan of pork.
17. I never knew what was happening during high school football games.
16. I am afraid of teenagers today, don't ask why.
15. My favorite candy bar is Snickers.
14. I wish I wasn't so addicted to Facebook.
13. I can't wait until I can have a puppy.
12. I HATE when people bring cell phones to church and text. It is so disrespectful.
11. I love Steven Spielburg and Tim Burton movies.
10. I always thought I was more mature than my peers in school.
9. Don't know how many kids I want yet.
8. My least favorite season is winter.
7. I like to blend in, not stand out.
6. I may be a chocoholic.
5. My favorite dessert is cheesecake.
4. I love to sing, but don't think I'm very good at it.
3. I love Christmas.
2. I can never kill spiders by myself.
1. I am reserved until you really get to know me.

mommy and me

2010-02-16T17:02:00.000-08:00

Yesterday my mom and my aunt Robin came up to school to visit me. It was a wonderful visit, complete with food, crafts, and pedicures. Monday was a day trying to find the perfect curtains to go in our apartment. I've decided I'm never shopping for curtains again. We have to wait for them to be delivered. I hope I like them on my walls. We went to Applebee's for dinner, and it was really good. Until about 11:30 I threw everything up. I plan on complaining to Applebee's.

Today we got pedicures and Aunt Robin got a manicure. It was very relaxing, there's nothing I love better than having my feet rubbed. We also went to Porters, (a craft store up here) and made bracelet watches. Because crafts are not my thing, I was extremely proud of my watch and how it turned out. I also got a surprise call today from Teresa :D my day just couldn't get any better.

Overall, it was great seeing my mom. I sure do miss her. And my Aunt Robin is just as crazy as ever, so the past two days were filled with much laughter and jokes. It was much needed.

tttm...things that thrill me

2010-02-03T10:38:00.000-08:00

So I was just laying in bed last night thinking, which is something that I do almost every night, and instead of rehashing the things that usually annoy me, I concentrated on thinking of things that thrill me. After having a couple of minutes of this, I came up with ten things I really enjoy, things that thrill me. So here we go.
1. DENVER. Of course this is a no brainer one, right? But I really got done to it, and I realized how much I love this guy. When he smiles or really laughs, and I mean really laughs, my heart just flutters with happiness. And when he does little things for me, such as spontaneously making the bed, or accomplishing the amazing feat of putting a dish in the dishwasher, I just have to hug him and tell him I love him.
2. FAMILY. This one might also seem like a no brainer, but in all actuality, I just love family. Especially when I hear of my brother's accomplishments. That kid is golden, and I couldn't be more proud of him, and every day I wish him to succeed.
3. LITERATURE. I absolutely love literature. Good books thrill me beyond belief. I love how Shakespeare, Jane Austen, and many others carefully craft their words for me to enjoy. And getting lost in a good book is just heaven.
4. THE GOSPEL. I love this gospel. I love expanding my knowledge on things I thought I knew really well and sharing them with Denver.
5. GOOD MOVIES. Clean movies with a good message are an unbeatable duo. So many movies are just filled with filth, and it's relieving to know I choose not to destroy myself with them.
6. GOOD FRIENDS. Have to admit, I don't have many of these yet. Really close friends that I trust are a rare commodity, so the ones I do have I cherish and hold close to my heart.
7. SUMMER. There is something about summer that has a hint of romance in it, right? And of course the great weather, sunshine, and being outside is something I truly enjoy.
8. MY PILLOW. Don't ask me why, but there is something truly satisfying about laying in bed and having a soft pillow beneath your cheek.
9. GOD'S CREATIONS. When I really take the time to notice the splendor of this earth, I am beyond grateful for the chance to be a part of it. It never fails to amaze me how many things supply beauty.
10. A BABY'S SMILE. No, I do not have babies coming anytime soon, and I'm the first one to admit I'm not a huge baby person, but there is something in a baby's smile that just tugs at my heart and makes me smile. Someday I'll be able to experience that everyday.

So, just a couple of things I thought I'd share. I've come to realize thinking about things that I'm grateful for, or things that truly thrill me, all annoyance vanishes and happiness slowly creeps in. It's a good feeling. :D

update on life

2010-01-26T10:19:00.000-08:00

This week marks week #6 of being back up at school. Time sure flies by. Lots of time spent with Denver, running errands, and attending classes. Since I'm off track of school right now, I can only take night classes. So, this semester I'm taking an advanced writing/technical communication class, and an Old Testament class. It's pretty exciting, diving into the Old Testament this year, both in church and in my class. I never was really good about reading it, and this semester I'm reading stories I never knew existed. My writing class is going well, this week we're starting a major research paper.

Since Denver and I still don't have jobs, I will have lots of time to visit the library and complete that sucker. Since I don't have a job, my days consist of cleaning the apartment over and over. I also do homework, I make it stretch out so I have things to do during the day. I also have a Dallas Cowboy's Cheerleader Workout DVD which I love working out to. Hopefully I will see some results in the upcoming weeks.

Today is devotional day and Elder Russell M. Nelson is speaking. I am quite excited about it. Tickets sell out immediately so Denver and I can't sit together. But, I figure I'm hearing an apostle of the Lord speak, so Denver and I will survive forty minutes apart.

Denver and I met a couple in the ward, (can you say finally) that we like a lot. We've been invited to Sunday dinner with them. I am excited to have found somebody to talk to. You know you're alone a lot when you start talking to the characters in the movies you watch. Or to yourself. I am guilty of doing both of these things a lot. :D

Well, I think that's about it for now. Not much to report on, but I figure an update was much needed. Until next time!

Our First Place!

2010-01-11T13:30:00.000-08:00

Here's some peeks at what our apt looks like! It's not very big, but it suits Denver and I just fine. We hope to build fond memories here! Our favorite place is on the couch watching movies. Just until we both find jobs of course :D

winter wonderland

2009-12-31T09:57:00.000-08:00

yesterday it snowed for the first time up here. Time to break out the ice scrapers. I was a little annoyed at first because now that the snow has started, it probably won't stop for a while. I also get to start driving on slick roads. Gross. today though, Denver and I decided to make the best of the situation and build a snowman. I can't tell you the last time I actually did that, and we had a blast. I named him Charlie, and he's right outside our window. What a peeping tom. :)

I can't believe today is New Year's Eve, and it's the last day of 2009. My goodness. Time for me to make my New Year's Resolution list. Another year has come and gone. "Ring out Wild Bells!"
Tonight Denver and I might make an appearance at our stake's New Year's Eve party. We haven't really decided yet.

Happy New Year!

moving back into the cold

2009-12-19T14:11:00.001-08:00

So. Moving back to school was a little more stressful than I thought! I never dreamt it would be this much work. So far Denver and I have been up pretty much at the crack of dawn to get everything organized. Check out our wonderful trash pile! Denver has decided he can't really rest until everything is done. He has been such the little handyman! I just love him so much. I just want a magic fairy to come and do this all for me. I knew there would come a day when I wish I lived back at home and Mom was the best thing ever. (She still is, now I have to take over that role.)

Thursday night when we arrived, we had lots of help from friendly neighbors, and just as soon as we finished the entire city had a blackout. Whatever! It only lasted about an hour, but it was so inconvient!

Friday we organized and bought all the groceries and neccesities. Who knew all the stuff we bought I took for granted at home.

Today, we had to buy a couple more things such as a bookcase, entertainment center, shelf for bathroom, etc. Thank you Target and Walmart. What would we ever do without them? Everything never ends :D I'll put up pictures of our finished product later this week. No worries!

new changes

2009-12-11T08:20:00.000-08:00

December has already been full of changes. First of all, I got my hair dyed a darker brown, which I think suits me just fine.

Secondly, Denver and I got a new car! Well, it's new to us after all :D And of course I forgot to take a picture of it, so that will be coming soon. (Sorry mom :D)

Third, Denver and I are starting to pack up and get everything ready for our move. Well, I've started, and Denver will follow. Fingers crossed right?

Tomorrow Denver and I will have a getaway weekend and go to San Fransisco. Not quite sure what we will do yet, but I'm sure we will find something to do.

it's been a long time gone...

2009-12-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while since I've posted anything...haven't had much to say! But next week is the week of the big move back to school. I haven't really decided if I'm excited or nervous. I think I'm more anxious for all the new changes. Change is going to be around for a while, so I might as well get used to it. I've been counting down days until Denver and I buy our Christmas tree and some lights. It just doesn't seem like the Christmas season without them. We did go Christmas shopping over the weekend, which was an interesting experience. I think it was a little more stressful than Denver's liking. Oh well :D

Well, I really don't have much else to say. Maybe tomorrow? We'll see!

little truths

2009-11-20T08:49:00.000-08:00

some little truths I've learned in recent months:

-the art of mastering one's self takes time

-"fake it 'til you make it"

-music soothes the soul and comforts the heart

-what you want in life is up to you

I've learned a lot from people these past few months. I tend to observe people a lot (no I'm not a stalker :D) and I have noticed that smiles are so much more comforting than frowns. The people that smile give me more faith and hope in this world. And I wonder if they know how much their smile means to somebody.

"Fake it 'til you make it." I wish I had thought of that phrase! It's such a good phrase, even if you're not happy, pretend you are, and then eventually you really will be happy.

Good, uplifting music (and movies) are a good key for happiness. Pretty self-explanatory.

christmas anyone?

2009-11-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

I've decided that I don't really want to wait until December to celebrate Christmas. Why can't we just skip to it? That's my problem, I really have a problem waiting for things I want. Especially things I love. So for now, I just have to wait. You know the saying, "Sit back and enjoy the ride?" I've decided that whoever wrote that statement didn't have a roller coaster in mind. They must have had the Disneyland ride "I'ts a Small World" on their brain. I just love that ride, you just casually float along and look at all the pretty little dolls and underground world. I must have this mentality more often for my own life!

Yesterday Teresa and I visited Target (one of our favorite places to go) to browse and peek at their selection of Christmas decorations. We found a pretty cute Christmas plate set for Denver and I to enjoy. Aren't the snowflakes just pretty? I love snowflakes, their delicate structure amazes me. Needless to say the set is timeless, and I hope we are able to enjoy them for a long time. They will be perfect for Denver and I's first Christmas dinner.

As long as I've got Christmas on the brain, and since Thanksgiving is just right around the corner, I have been counting my many blessings and looking at all the things I'm grateful for. Here is just a small portion of my blessings:

-being able to live in a free country

-having the gospel in my life

-having the blessing of eternal families, and being with them forever

-a roof over my head

-sanitary food and water

-a healthy, able body

-this precious life I am able to live

I really could go on and on, as I'm sure many of us could, but those are just a few. I really am thankful for all I have, and try and express it everyday to those I love. I also want to thank my dad for always looking out for me and helping me find a job back up at school. He knows how frustrating the process is for me, and is always looking for jobs for me. My mom is also a huge support to me, and I love them both very much!

goblins and wizards and witches...oh my!

2009-11-02T08:32:00.000-08:00

this past weekend was one of my favorite holidays...HALLOWEEN! Our branch put together a "trunk or treat" and Denver and I were determined to have the best trunk there. And suprise, suprise we won the best trunk! We were pretty pleased with ourselves...we sure had a lot of fun decorating it! We totally went all out. And what is Halloween without costumes? Denver became a wizard for the night...(he never specified what kind of wizard he was, so all the kids called him different names such as Merlin and Gandalf) and I became a witch. So much fun!

you know you're getting older when you stay home Halloween night and watch a movie and find yourself wondering what all the Halloween hubub is all about. That's what I felt this year..although I had a great time that night with family.

some upcoming events in my life this week...going to Portland for the weekend for my cousin's wedding. A short little visit, but it will be deeply gratifying and wonderful to see my family!!! I can hardly wait. :D

excitement

2009-10-21T08:28:00.000-07:00

yesterday teresa and I picked up some final touches for my room. It included:

-a picture hanging kit to hang up a framed picture from the honeymoon
-a cream colored ottoman to be placed at the end of the bed

-a matching pillow to jazz it up (Denver calls it the "lovebird pillow.")

-a brown wooden tray

-a candle plate
-a festive fall candle
-a photo albumn

-a square vase filled with brown wicker-like balls

I've decided you can decorate your entire home in Target. I love Target!

So exciting! I just love my room it is so inviting. I had always dreamed of the day I would be picking things out for my first place. Which leads me to some good news-it looks like Denver and I have our first place up at school! Happy day!

Somedays it all doesn't seem real. Sometimes I ask myself if I really am married to such a wonderful guy, if I really am halfway done with COLLEGE, and will it really be time to start a family in a few years? Kind of funny how time flies. I always used to hear people say that (still do!) and never really believed them. How funny! Time flies by everyday!

sewing and such

2009-10-19T08:16:00.000-07:00

this weekend went by too fast! (I hate when that happens). On Saturday we went to the corn maze with Denver's Uncle John and Aunt Libby, and their two kids. It was a lot of fun, except for all the accumulated mud on my boots. But, it gave us all a good laugh.

Also on Saturday I attempted to improve my sewing skills by sewing some scarfs for a Relief Society activity this weekend. It was pretty easy, and I felt like I acccomplished something. Yay!

I finally finished my pinecone wreath! I think it looks pretty darn good. Now I have a decoration to use throughout the fall and winter. I think I'm doing pretty good with my domestic skills.

Looks like my next project will be cleaning all the mud off my boots tonight. Sounds like fun huh? :)

2009-10-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

this week has been pretty good! Wednesday marked the two month anniversary of being married to my wonderful husband Denver! We celebrated by going out to dinner. And Denver, being the wonderful guy he his had flowers delivered to me at work. I just love him.

thursday I got my hair cut and colored. I was way excited, I just love getting my hair cut. I was very pleased with how it turned out.

we'll see how the weekend goes!

its a charmed life.

2009-10-12T08:20:00.000-07:00

so... friday afternoon teresa, heidi and I went up to the coast to spend the night. It was a nice, quick trip and truly refreshed me. Friday night we went out to dinner at a restaraunt "Finn's" and had a bowel of clam chowder as big as my head. It was super delicious! Then we had a hot chocolate adventure. Who would've guessed that using a GPS to find a Starbucks would lead us into a dark part of town with no Starbucks. :) You could tell we desperately wanted a cup of cocca. We also went to the beach Friday night and again on Saturday afternoon. I loved how the air smelled...so fresh and rejuvenating.

Saturday we went to an antique show up in an orchard. It was so pretty! We all picked up a couple of special items. I got an iron basket, a set of old books and some old fashioned keys. I'm in love with them..they have such a unique charm.

overall this weekend was a good experience. I loved being able to see different parts of California and being able to spend some time with Teresa and Heidi. I hope this week turns out to be a successful one...I have a lot of things I want to accomplish, like finishing my pinecone wreath.

My quote for this week: "Faith is what keeps us alive."

fall days make us think

2009-10-05T08:18:00.000-07:00

saturday was a wonderful fall day. Denver, Teresa, Heidi, her kids and I went to Oakhurst to ride the Sugar Pine Railroad. What a treat! We got to take a fun train ride through the mountains. After, we had a picnic lunch. What a great way to spend a beautiful fall morning!

Later, while watching conference, Teresa, Heidi and I started to make pinecone wreaths. I still have to finish mine, but it looks pretty good so far! Conference was pretty powerful this time around! I loved Elder Holland's talk about the Book of Mormon and how powerful his testimony was about it. I hope one day I can have a testimony with that much power.

fall is my absolute favorite time of the year. some things i love about fall are:

candles that smell of vanilla and "fall" smells ;)

pumpkins

crisp fall air

leaves just as they are changing colors

fireplaces

those are just a few. i learned from my grandma and grandpa bryce how to appreciate what Heavenly Father has given us. I thought about that a lot while riding on the train, driving in the car, while listening to conference, and today looking at a powerpoint my mom sent me. It only takes a simple realization to appreciate the beauty in all things. That's what my grandma taught me, and i love her for that.

well this week should be full of things to do. each day holds the potential for beauty...now i've just got to recognize it! :)

fall is here!

2009-09-30T09:11:00.001-07:00

so yesterday was the first fall day we've had in cali so far. i was sooo excited. fall is my absolute favorite season and i just love everything about it. so teresa and i went and picked up some fall things for the house. here's a peek. This first picture is a pumpkin i picked out. the cute little wreath around it is from michaels, and so is the ribbon. i felt so creative. This cute little candle holder is so festive. i'm in love with it. we also found a cute little haunted house. what a day full of festivity. teresa and i also bought some mulch and spread it around the flowerbeds. it was a nice project for me.

well that's about it! sorry i don't have much more to talk about, maybe later this week!

Yosemite and sparkly things

2009-09-16T08:50:00.000-07:00

Saturday Denver and his friend Evan and I went up to Yosemite National Park. It was so gorgeous! The boys took me on a hike that I sadly assumed was going to be fairly easy. Well when you haven't excercised in a while your legs don't work as properly as they should. So lack of excercise combined with high altitude had me huffing and puffing more than any 20 year old should be doing. But I was thankful for the gorgeous weather and atmosphere and I think our Heavenly Father is pleased when we take time to enjoy the wonderful creations on this earth He made for us. So here is some pictures of that adventure.

Then on Monday, Teresa and I went to Pier 1 to take a look. We ended up finding some cute things for my room and I am quite proud of what we found! Take a look :) My favorite is the mirror. Just pops out I think and I love it! Probably because it's sparkly and wonderful. Our room is slowly coming together!

So this week has been full of adventures to be continued with a trip to Old Sacramento today!

also, I am having the darndest time with putting my uploaded pictures where I want them to be instead of them all clustered at the top like that. Does anyone know how I can fix it? Thanks :)

progress...little by little...

2009-09-09T07:32:00.000-07:00

As defined by Webster, progress means a movement toward a goal or to a further or higher stage. definately true with our room. It's progressing to become at its best! Denver and I put together the dresser together, and by that time we'd both had our quota of fun with furniture.

Last night Denver put together the nightstands while I cooked our first dinner as a married couple. Yipee! Thanks to kraftfoods.com I made a delicious broccoli, cheese and chicken bundles. Yum, yum. I should have taken a picture, but I'm still working on the love of photography. Not as much my thing as it is Denver's. Maybe someday I'll learn :)

Still working on adjusting to married life and Cali. I'm thinking it's going pretty good so far..i'll take that as a good thing.

Week Two

2009-09-07T13:52:00.000-07:00

So today is our second week in California. We went to Ikea furniture oultet last Thursday and picked up some nice furniture for our bedroom. Denver and I put together the dresser yesterday and today I attempted to do our nightstands. Let's just say that didn't last very long-maybe I'll try again later.
I can't wait until our bedroom is all done, that will be a very happy day indeed. I'm trying to think of what to make for dinner tonight. Maybe Kraftfoods.com will be helpful in assisting me...

Fresh Start

2009-09-03T11:09:00.000-07:00

Happy day! Today Teresa and I set up the bedding set on our bed in Gustine. Isn't it just amazing?

Aren't these pillows just the cutuest? If I get tired of the blue side, I can just switch it over to the white side. Marvelous. I hope to go do some research on Ikea's website and see what I want for our bedroom. Once I get a game plan down, I'll post it. Wish me luck, this is all out of my comfort zone. :)

Well, today has been good so far. Last Denver and I were dead tired so we crashed at like 8;30. No joke. But that made it pretty easy to wake up at 5:30 this morning ;) Hopefully it won't be an everyday thing or I'll never get anything done. We decided we are going to alternate days we stay up in Cathey's Valley and Gustine until the season gets really busy, and then we'll just stay in Gustine. But Denver and I have decided the commute isn't really for us. But what can you do but make the best of it? The drive conversations are great.

Day 4 in Cali

2009-09-02T12:49:00.001-07:00

It's almost been a week since we've moved to California! Happy day! :) Today Teresa and I went to the outlets in Gilroy, we had a nice shopping time together. Now we're back at work and I have a ton of thank you notes to write so that will keep me busy.

Yesterday we got off work early, so Denver and I had a little date night. We went into Merced and cruised Target. I just love that store. Today Teresa and I went back and got a bedding set, so I'm way pumped to put it on our bed. It will be so cute!

2009-08-31T21:45:00.000-07:00

So today was our first offical day in Cali! I went to the office with Teresa and she showed me around the nuthouse. So I got to learn the ropes of the family business. There's not much to worry about like I originally thought...what a relief. Sometimes I really get nervous about little things and then they turn out to be fine. Ha who would've thought? Let's see, funny moment today was that I learned how impatient Mr. Denver can be when he's trying to teach something. So here's a little tip...if you have a question about using Photoshop, just google it. Or you can face the wrath of Denver. Take your pick. :)

Let's see after work Denver and I went grocery shopping, which is fun because Denver takes me up and down every single aisle. He is such a silly goose. That is why I love him. Tomorrow will be a fun day because we get to go to the DMV and pick up a booklet for me to study so I can get a new license. I really don't understand that rule about taking the driving test again if you're only trying to get your name changed on the license. But that's just me talking. Oh well.

I'm going to continue the blog, and I'm still getting used to everything. But it's going to be a fun adventure!

Newlyweds

2009-08-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

Well here is my first attempt at this whole blog thing. I hope to update it pretty often once I get the hang of it :) Denver and I are enjoying our little moments together, I just love him to death.

We have enjoyed our week in Nebraska. Denver has gotten a taste of my hometown. He was pretty worried at first, I think he thought Nebraska was going to be a giant wasteland or something. But he has said Lincoln is "pretty" so I am satisfied. On our way to dinner with some of my high school friends Thursday night, we ran into a precession of tractors on one of the busiest streets in town. I assured Denver this was not a normal circumstance. I don't think he believed me. Oh well. Nebraska has been a great place to live and now it is time for a new journey.