Babblings of a Crazed College Student

Mardis Gras!

2012-02-12T18:36:00.000-07:00

What else does everyone think of when they hear "New Orleans"?

Boy, we had no idea just how excited everyone gets around here for the upcoming Mardis Gras. There are parades GALORE all over the state you can attend for weeks before Mardis Gras even arrives!

We took advantage of this and attended what I honestly believe was the best parade of my life in Baton Rouge the other evening with our good friends.

Yup, this wasn't even one of their best ones - just a fun local one, and it was still the best parade I have ever been too, no matter HOW freezing it was outside!

(Sorry for the lack of pictures as well as the bad quality. My camera is awful at taking pictures, and then my computer died as I was uploading them, and it managed to erase all the files and corrupt most of the ones that were already uploaded )

My favorite - this is what I did the entire time - stayed warm in the quilt since I was making sure the baby stayed warm as well...the majority of the parade he enjoyed playing with me rather than actually watching what was going on!

I still cannot believe how much you get from even these tiny parades - we came home with armfuls of beads, stuffed animals, cups, etc. This WAS due in part to the fact that I held a baby the entire time so many people on the float beckoned for Dallas to walk right up to the float and get some awesome toys for the baby, but even without that we have plenty of beads for Mardis Gras!!

Dome Inflation

2012-02-12T18:21:00.002-07:00

I had the wonderful opportunity of observing my husband hard at work a few weeks ago while he and his coworkers managed to make a building appear overnight:

It was fun to be able to see what exactly it is Dallas does every single day, and watching these domes inflate is an experience you should never pass up when the opportunity arises!

Needed Prayers

2012-02-09T17:33:00.002-07:00

Please, read this blog

http://wjgb.blogspot.com

And send your prayers his way. The author of the blog, his sister, is a friend of mine.

I know all they need all the prayers they can get.

Scentsy

2012-01-21T13:46:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note,

My brother has an open Scentsy party for anyone to buy from!

The party will close in about 5 days.

Click the link before if you need some Scentsy! :)

https://shelbyane.scentsy.us/Buy?partyId=67900856

Whaddya think?

2012-01-17T07:59:00.000-07:00

I've been sort of wanting to host a giveaway on my blog lately. But I need some help.

First of all, would you all be interested in a giveaway if I did one? I mean heck, you win free stuff, right?! How awesome is that!!!

The next thing would be, then, is some vendors! Who would be willing to donate? I mean, think about it - you aren't entirely just simply donating - but you're getting YOUR business out there!!!

My point is, if you are a vendor of some sort (clothing, photography, home decor, etc. etc.), leave me a comment or send me an e-mail and I'll let you know what I'm thinking for this giveaway!!

If all goes as planned, then be watching my blog for the next little while for an awesome giveaway!!!!

Happy Birthday to....ME!

2012-01-12T15:13:00.003-07:00

I had a GREAT birthday thanks to all my wonderful friends and family!!! It was perfect - Phone calls from friends and family, letters, e-mails, watching t.v., being lazy, and most importantly no schooling!!!

Dallas got home from work a little after 6 and told me we had reservations at 7 - so I had to get ready.

Apparently this is what he meant by "reservations":

Yeah - that is cake smashed all over my face, hair, and everywhere!!!

Luckily it was a surprise birthday party - so I guess I forgive him (and Juan).

Our Dome/Louisiana friends all came, despite the fact that it was the night of the National Championships (yes, I even caught Dallas trying to watch the game a couple of times!!)

Dallas also spoiled me with a new camera as well as an iPad, which I don't think I've put down since I got it!

Being a year older feels absolutely no different, except for the fact that I am now married, doing school online, and living in Louisiana - which I honestly never saw myself doing (minus the married part).

But it's great.

Here's to another year of my wonderful life!!!

I am Me!

2012-01-07T12:13:00.003-07:00

In order to become a better me, I need to own up to who I am - stop pretending to be something I'm not. To help me with this, I've decided to right now, right here, write down exactly who I am.

I am Shelby Ane McKellar Hawkes.

Wife. Daughter. Sister. Friend.

I am an introvert. Always have been, and may very well always will be. Let me explain what this means. I am not a fan of being in crowds. If there is a lot of people, I will shy away. It's nothing personal, it's just how I am. I would prefer to be with a few choice people at a time. I will sometimes say no to going out with you, but it is because I am in need of re-charging, and to re-charge, I prefer to be alone. Nothing personal. I am shy when I first meet you. It is hard for me to immediately open up unless I make a strong connection with you. Dallas and I knew each other years before we started to date. I even really disliked him for a while. What changed? I made a connection. Our dads are really good friends. I found that out, and opened up to him.

I want to apologize to everyone who feels that I have ever disliked them in any way, especially because of this. I am not trying to be stuck up, I am not suggesting any disgust towards you. I'm simply quiet and shy. It will take me a while to open up. I do not hate you. I don't dislike you. I probably like you. I may even absolutely adore you. But I am shy. I'm not going to lie. I'm not going to try to change that.

It is who I am.

I am a daughter of God. I am Mormon, and not afraid to be so. I love the Gospel, I love my Savior, I love my life - the life that He gave me and guided me to. The life He blessed me with. I am active. I believe in my religion totally and completely.

I do not watch R-Rated movies. I do not drink alcohol of any kind. I do not drink coffee or tea. I don't do any sort of drugs. I don't have tattoos. I don't participate in sexual activities outside of my marriage.

If you are different from me and my beliefs, I will not judge you. I will not condemn you. I will not scorn you. This is my life and my choices, and yours is your life and your choices.

I welcome any friendship to anyone and everyone, even if I am shy at first.

I love to dress up. I hate taking a long time to get ready (30 minutes = too long). I love to clean. I love to lounge. I love to be with my husband. I love culture. I love nature.
My favorite color is pink. I love working with finances. My hair is currently brunette. My eyes are hazel. I love my name. I love modeling.

I am a college student. I love to learn. I get frustrated with my classes.

I want so dearly to be a mother. I am afraid of not being able to become a mother. I love children and always have. I want to be everyone's favorite babysitter and first choice as a babysitter. If I could play with babies, toddlers, and children all day, I would.

I am afraid to talk with people I don't know well. I would prefer texting/e-mailing/blogging/facebook before calling & talking. I am afraid of confrontation. I would prefer to keep the peace, to let things go, to forgive and forget.

I want to be open with everyone, for everyone to understand me and for me to understand them.

I want to be a good example. I want to make correct decisions in my life. I want to be able to please all of my friends, family (immediate, extended, and in-laws all included), and acquaintances, but I simply cannot. I will do my best, but I have to be true to myself as well.

I am hurt when people feel that I don't like them or when they don't like me and wish I could fix that. I would prefer to be your friend than your enemy or even acquaintance.

I too often try to fit in rather than be myself because I feel others will like that better. But it isn't who I am. I should be myself, because more often than not, people like that better.

I don't have a quirky, cute, crazy personality. My best girl friend does. She's crazy and I'm calm. Who says that's supposed to make us clash? She's still my best friend.

I wish I could keep in touch so much better with all of my friends and keep our friendships close. I'll be honest. I can't. I can't call/text every single one of you every single day. I wish I could. It doesn't change the fact that you are still my good friend.

It makes me sad when people judge others and put others down. I saw it too much in high school. I see it too much still. There's no need for it. There's no reason to do it. I won't pretend I'm not guilty, but I am and do try to be so much better about it.

Something I've noticed in recent years that has changed about me is that I no longer let others thoughts and judgments change my judgment.

I love all of you. I love the friendships I have. I love the family I have. I love my husband with all of my heart. I love my Savior even more.

I am Shelby. I am a Daughter of God.

I am me.

2012-01-07T09:20:00.004-07:00

The past 2 days, I've had some really great conversations and a lot of thinking on my part.

It's a new year.

It's the first full year I am married.

I am away from all I've ever really known.

I'm starting a completely different and new life.

I'm dealing with new and very different trials I've never even close to had in my life.

There are many life-changing decisions for me and for my family that are beginning to be made.

I have new and different views on a lot of things I'd never really thought about.

Really, this year is so far different than anything I've ever had before. And it truly all goes back to being because I got married. Marriage is so wonderful, and I absolutely LOVE it. But I will admit I never fully realized how much things really change, how different things suddenly become. Today, Dallas and I sat down and REALLY talked about our future children and what kind of lives we want them to live. We don't have any children. I'm not even pregnant. But for the first time in my life, I really worried and pondered on how I want my children to grow up - the kind of atmosphere I want them in, the people I want them around and relying on, the life I want them to have.
And I really, truly worried about it. I've worried about my own life, my own future plenty of times. I've worried so much that I don't even care as much what happens to me because I know I can get through and deal with anything. But I have never worried so much in my life - and it was about children I don't even have yet.

As I was saying before, new life, new year, new perspective.

And because of it all, I've really decided I want, and need, to turn a new leaf. I want to turn my life around. I have a great life now, don't get me wrong, but there is a lot about me personally I want to change, a lot that I can make better about myself. With so much change in my life, this is the time to do it. The is the time to mold me into that better person. This is the time to make me the kind of person that can make a great life for my children so I don't have to worry like I did today.

Truly, all my problems stem from me. My thoughts. My opinions. My feelings. Change me, and I change my problems. Because of this, I'm going to start with my personal spirituality - my personal relationship with my Father in Heaven - because in order to change me for the better, I need Him. I need my Savior. I can't do this alone, and we all know that. To become the person I want to be, I need to know the Person I want to be.

That is my resolution this year.

A better me.

Eco-friendly

2012-01-04T08:32:00.002-07:00

Many of you know that Dallas and I recently joined a company that has very eco-friendly and healthier products. While reading through countless blogs (really - I love to read blogs, so I'll just keep clicking on links to other blogs from a blog and get myself completely lost and find a new blog I love), I came across this post about these very products (I will give credit to the blog as soon as I can find it again. I copied and pasted and then closed the blog without thinking, and continued reading through more. I'm still searching!!):

before i became a mom... safety and health weren't really an issue for me.

then i had a baby.

who became a toddler.

who was into everything.

so i was always careful about what i had at toddler levels.

and then i started to do my own research about what was in normal every day products.

shampoo.

conditioner.

laundry soap.

dish soap.

cleaning products.

cosmetics.

EVERYTHING.

i was amazed!

floored really.

they are SO incredibly toxic & harmful!

and it's sad to say that because big corporate stores carry them...

we just buy & use them.

they truly should be banned from the shelves.

after completely switching our home over and shopping wholesale through this company

i was amazed at what our health did.

and how good it made me feel to know that i had natural, safe and high quality products in my home.

i never have to worry about miss t getting into anything that could hurt her.

she even asks to clean with me.

LOVE THAT!

and an even better part...

IT'S CHEAPER THAN SHOPPING AT WALMART. TARGET. SAMS. ETC!

all i did was switch stores for safer, healthier & more high quality products.

and i kid you not...

i have NEVER used anything better than these products!

i'm obsessed with everything.

and it is THE ONLY PLACE WE SHOP AT.

besides our food.

Now back to me - I could not agree more with her! Anyone can ask me and I will tell you I am literally IN LOVE with these products!!! The cleaning products SMELL cleaner and safer, and don't make you cough and sneeze and cry every time you use them! Plus, in my opinion, they work a million times better than anything you can buy at walmart. Dallas swears by their multi-vitamins - he's a lot more energized and balanced throughout the day, and that's a big thing for a construction worker! Their laundry detergent works better, their sunscreen is safer (no weird chemicals soaking into your skin!), their lotion is the BEST I have EVER used, I could go on and on and on!

All of it IS cheaper than these wholesale retailers, but even better, you can make a living off of joining this company, which is what Dallas and I have begun to do. We joined in November, got a check in December, and are waiting for our next check to come soon in January! Honestly, you put a tiny amount of effort into it, and you get a paycheck each month, because it's residual income.

Ok, I'll get off my soapbox now, but I just had to share this once I found it because I agree wholeheartedly. If you are at all interested, leave me a comment or e-mail me. :)

Resolutions

2012-01-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

Here are my New Years Resolutions for 2012, plain and simple:

http://lds.org/ensign/2012/01/living-the-abundant-life?lang=eng&query=living+abundant+life

All Eternity

2011-12-29T20:44:00.001-07:00

My husband. Yes, this sexy man:

Is the most wonderful man in the entire world. He makes me laugh, SO MUCH, he teases the crap out of me, he always focuses all his energy on me and my well-being, he fixes stuff up no matter what it is, he works hard, LONG hours to make a GREAT living for us, he's the most sarcastic person alive, he COMPLETELY understands me, he's sensitive to my every thought and feeling, he snores louder than a foghorn, he makes simple games such as LIFE and Phase 10 the absolute best/funniest times of my life, he spoils me like crazy, he drives everywhere because I don't like to, he loves me for the entirely crazy, sometimes psychotic me, and mostly

I just plain love him!

I couldn't have asked for anyone better to spend all of eternity with!

Our First Christmas

2011-12-28T08:34:00.003-07:00

I must say, Christmas was very different being married and in the south, but was absolutely wonderful.
I had exactly how the morning would go all planned out, and of course, my plans did NOT happen....from the very beginning!
I was supposed to wake up before Dallas so I could make sure Santa came ;) and then wake him up with his first present. I even set my alarm for 5:30 so I could be absolutely sure I would be awake before he was. But of course, he just happened to wake up at 4:30 and never went back to sleep - actually waking me up about 5 minutes before my alarm went off wanting to cuddle.
I let him know he ruined my plans and he wasn't supposed to be awake yet :) He laughed.

The rest of the morning went like any other Christmas; we woke up at that point (honestly, I never thought we as adults would be waking up at 5:30 to open presents. Maybe 7:00, but that's only because we had church at 9:00!!) and opened our presents.

Me: A sewing machine, a Husky puppy (plush of course because Dallas would never let me get a real dog), TONS of candy, Dr. Pepper, sunglasses, a shirt, a water bottle, and a headband.

Dallas: Church shoes, a paisley tie (which he and I LOVE, btw), candy, chapstick, Phase 10, Elven Heir (the 2nd book of a series he loves), a BYU blanket, and some other items which I will not list :)

Both of us: A new bedspread from his parents (LOVE this - it makes our white trash makeshift bedroom look much nicer!), a GPS from my parents, movie gift card from my brother and sister-in-law, more candy, a movie from his mom, and ornaments of the Idaho Falls and Baton Rouge temples from my parents.

I think that was everything...could be wrong. But we love it all.

Of course, we went back to bed at that point. And then I almost made us late for church since I didn't want to wake back up. But luckily (or maybe unluckily since we wouldn't have had this problem...) church was combined with the other ward here, and our good friends squished us in their pew so we didn't have to sit on the hard seats. I was extremely happy because this meant I had a little Chancho to entertain me through Sacrament Meeting! :)

After church, we got to Skype with my sister on her mission (yay!) and with Dallas's family after that. It was a pretty good, relaxing Christmas and I can't wait to see what we will do next year!

CHRISTmas

2011-12-19T21:57:00.001-07:00

I’ve really been pondering a lot today (So sorry for so many posts). Reading the Sullengers blog, my screw ups with the mail system, Christmas, friends, family, exes, etc. etc. And every now and again I feel this way – this turmoil, but peace. I feel so lost and confused, yet so directed. Every time I know it is help coming from my Savior, because every time it happens, it seems as though everything is going wrong. But then I begin to reflect on people – friends and family, and more specifically, those who have passed, and those who have lost.

Today I was so upset over the fact that one store got my order entirely wrong for one of Dallas’s presents, resulting in me now having to go fix the problem tomorrow, and then receiving contacts in the mail today that I paid a fortune for, and finding out most of the boxes had been stolen in the Postal System. Very frustrating and very upsetting that I’ve lost so much money.

But then I kept thinking about Christmas and thinking about how this is a giving season. And even though the contacts were stolen, I cannot shake the feeling that maybe someone out there needed them more than I did. There was a reason they were stolen – everything happens for a reason. And it could be a test on my part. Or it could be these contacts will end up in someone else’s hands that needs them. I keep telling myself this is so irrational and how in the WORLD could that be so, yet I cannot shake the feelings. And I just kept thinking – How would Christ react in this situation?

I’ve also had a rough time wrestling about exes and dwelling on stupid things with them, missing the friendships I had with them and so frustrated that some people can’t be even remotely friends after something has happened between them. I only have one ex that is still a friend – one. How can you go from being best friends to not even talking to each other? And maybe it’s weird that I would like to keep friendships with them, but I would. At least, not have them hate me or avoid me. If I were to see them on the street, I’d like to be able to say hi and catch up without it being awkward or upsetting. Why does a friendship have to be ruined? Is that how Christ would want it?

Then to calm down about all of it and try to sleep – I went browsing some blogs. And came across my dear friend Kasey’s. And then the Sullengers. Which made me think of Kyla, Preslee, and Jill. And I must say these two girls’ blogs inspire me so much. They somehow can keep focusing on what’s important in life – on the eternal perspective and on what we are all really here for.

Ashley Sullenger post this on her blog:

Joseph Smith rightly taught:
"The mother who laid down her little child, being deprived of the privilege, the joy, and the satisfaction of bringing it up to manhood or womanhood in this world, would, after the resurrection, have all the joy, satisfaction, and pleasure, and even more than it would have been possible to have had in mortality, in seeing her child grow to the full measure of stature of it's spirit...When she does it there, it will be with the certain knowledge that the results will be without failure; whereas here, the results are unknown until after we have passed the test."

I’ve also been thinking lots about my friend out here who is headed home for her grandfather’s funeral just days before Christmas.

And this Christmas season, here’s what I want to say. I miss Kasey. I miss Kyla. I miss Jill. I miss my family – immediate, extended, in-laws, everyone. I miss my friends. My old roommates. My co-workers. Anyone who’s ever made some impact on my life. This Christmas season it’s not about the presents and having a Christmas, for me, it’s really about everyone in my life. I wish I could be with everyone this season. I wish I could have Christmas like I used to as a child, surrounded by family and friends. It’s WONDERFUL to get to be with the love of my life this Christmas season, it truly is wonderful, but I do wish everyone could be here to celebrate as well.

Suddenly the rush of Christmas, the frustration, the stress, everything, it just doesn’t matter. What really matters is all the people who need me this Christmas, who need my love, who need my support, who need my help, who need my encouragement, who need my shoulder to cry on, who need my friendship, who just simply need me, just as we all needed Christ.

Merry Christmas. I love each and every one of you!

Our Apartment

2011-12-19T15:30:00.001-07:00

Ok, people have been asking, and I took a picture of my latest project for my mom, and figured I might as well photograph the whole apartment while I’m at it. So finally, here are some picture of our apartment. I realize I forgot to take a full picture of the dining room, but honestly you aren’t missing much. Also, sorry the pictures aren’t the best quality. I still don’t have a camera, so these are taken with my phone, which is not an amazing iPhone that takes professional pictures like many people seem to think.

First off, my project. I made these canvases myself (today) and hung them. Sorry for the glare on the one picture. These are hanging on my dining room wall (the wall next to the bedroom) You don’t see this wall in any other pictures.

Here is our living room – we are never in here. It is TINY. (that tree is a 6 foot Christmas tree if that gives you any idea of just how tiny the room is)

Here is our Kitchen. Off to the left is a small storage closet and a little nook with a desk. Seriously, this Kitchen is a bit overkill on how large it is. It’s nice, but I would rather have the large living room and smaller kitchen. (BTW, this is the view from the front door…and I am squishing back into the corner by the front door to get this pic)

The doors to your left is our laundry closet – just big enough to hold the washer and dryer and some storage above. The door to your right is our pantry, also small.

View from the bedroom door. You can see part of the living room, the storage closet, and the desk. To the left is our dining room (and yes that’s the window, that is how large our dining room is – and I’m standing in the corner between two walls…well technically two doors…)

Our bedroom (view from back corner) the far left is the door to the dining room/living room/kitchen, the door behind that door goes into the bathroom, and the door on the right is our walk-in closet.

Worst placement of doors ever. The bedroom and bathroom doors open INTO each other, and the other bathroom door is right next to them. Why we have two bathroom doors like that I have no idea. Why both the bedroom and bathroom doors open towards each other I also have no idea. Bad design. At one point, Dallas actually took the doorknob off the bathroom door because they kept getting stuck on each other. I complained because the bathroom door sits open like in the picture if not latched close. He complained and put the knob back on once he realized that meant no privacy ever in the bathroom. I won

Our garden tub, toilet, and shower. (The tub is HUGE which I LOVE…room enough COMFORTABLY for two!) Also notice worst placement of towel rack ever as well. Yes it’s nice to have once you step out of the tub, but don’t people generally use the shower more? So putting it next to the shower instead of around the wall behind it would have been better, right? We never use the towel rack.

Tub and vanity (and door to our bedroom)

Shower (with our improvised towel rack) What you don’t see in this picture is the linen closet right to the right of this picture and the other bathroom door leading to the dining cornering that.

So there you have it. A tour of our apartment. Personally, I like the upstairs design better (I’d show you pictures on my friend’s blog, but her blog is private…sorry!) That design has more room AND a balcony – our balcony is just our front entrance…not much of a balcony. I like even better the 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, but hey – I shouldn’t complain. I get this for free!!!!

The end

2011-12-19T08:53:00.001-07:00

End of a semester. End of a year. End of this cold (hopefully…)

I’m not sure what to think lately. I FINALLY finished the semester…thank goodness I thought I was going to die. But the really funny thing? Now that it’s over, I have NOTHING to do. Literally. Nothing. I actually got BORED browsing the internet, playing games, watching movies, and cleaning the apartment – all things I did (and enjoyed) to avoid homework. But now that there is no homework to be avoided, I’m literally bored. I get this way. I hate not being busy – hate it hate it hate it. Always have – which is why I’ve always loved working or going to school. But the funny thing is when I am in school, I complain and complain until I can’t anymore, and then complain some more. I feel so overwhelmed and stressed over my schooling when I’m doing it, but miss it dearly when I’m not. Am I crazy? I must be!

I literally submitted my last assignment Saturday night, and here I am Monday morning already wishing my classes for next semester were open early so I could get a head start and get them done! But of course, they aren’t, so I’m bored.

I did get lucky this week, though! My dear friend is flying home to Idaho for a few days this week, really last minute, and she asked me to watch the kiddos for her. 6 kids. Ages 2 through 15. From sun-up to sun-down while her hubby is at work (with my hubby). Hallelujah I have something to keep me busy!!!!! (It did take some convincing to her that I actually WANTED to do this for 3 straight days and that she doesn’t need to ask a million people to help) But I’m excited.

Now to get over this dang cold. Yup. Been fighting a cold, felt it coming on Saturday night. Of course I took some nyquil to get ahead, but it completely backfired. I woke up feeling sicker, and the drowsiest I have ever been!! I literally woke up to my alarm (I ALWAYS wake up before my alarm goes off!!), got up and showered, but fell asleep IN THE SHOWER and was still completely groggy and really not even there. I may have been dreaming the whole thing. So I curled back up in bed and Dallas said I was out again within 3 seconds of laying down. No wonder I didn’t make it to church…I slept through most of that too. But by the time Dallas got home from church I was finally somewhat awake and thought I was over the cold.

Then it hit this morning. The good news is that now that it has hit, I can usually get rid of it by the next day, so today is my sick day, tomorrow – well…we’ll see what I feel like doing then!

Merry soon to be Christmas everyone!

Sleepless Nights….

2011-12-16T23:06:00.001-07:00

Seriously this has got to stop. I’m so sick of staying up so late. I’m not tired, and Dallas’s snoring is so not helping. I almost went and slept on the living room floor last night, and am seriously considering it again tonight, but then it all just goes back to the fact that I’m not even tired.

I’ve washed Dallas’s dirty work clothes twice so far tonight, taken a bath, made a list of things to get done tomorrow, cleaned the kitchen (I won’t clean the living room though, as much as I want to, because Dallas made the mess and promised me he’d clean it up tomorrow!!!), reorganized our closet (and in doing so discovered that Dallas did not after all bring his camera, so it is somewhere hiding in Idaho, darn it), made a facebook page for my scentsy business, and browsed and browsed and browsed the internet.

Ugh.

I’m also about 85% sure I have yet another yeast infection This will be the 2nd one in 2 months and the 3rd one in a year!!!! I’m really hating this. I’ll test tomorrow to know for sure, but if it is, this time I’m calling up the doctor WITHOUT visiting him (that was a nightmare last time) and telling him to prescribe me that wonder pill that gets rid of yeast infections!

Just been one of those nights, can ya tell?

My last 3 finals I’ve been avoiding like crazy are due tomorrow night, so I really need to crack down and get those done (I can’t believe I’ve procrastinated them this long…I mean it’s my finals…if I just do them they are done!!!) But then I will FINALLY be free (at least until January when it starts all over again)

I’ll quit with this pity party now, and attempt to sleep (or just clean some more)

Goodnight everyone!

Surprise!!!

2011-12-15T22:43:00.001-07:00

Our surprise trip to Idaho was a success! Dallas and I have been planning this for well over a month and it could not have turned out better!!! We bought plane tickets the beginning of November to go home to Idaho this last weekend, and didn’t tell a soul. We reserved the rental car and everything! I had been super stoked for this trip forever!

Our wonderful friend Ashley was so kind enough to drive us to the airport last Friday afternoon to begin our long journey. We boarded at 3:30 and were out of New Orleans by 3:51. The flight was 2 1/2 hours, but wasn’t so bad. I had a book to read for finals, and Dallas had some games to watch and sleeping to do.

We landed in Denver thinking we would only have a couple minutes to begin boarding our next flight, but surprise surprise: DELAYED!!!

30 minutes.

We finally board.

But now we have to de-ice since some fog has rolled in. awesome.

SO we don’t actually leave the Denver airport until sometime around 8:10. Ugh. Especially considering we were supposed to get IN to Salt Lake at 7:49. We don’t get in until 9:00, wait forever for the luggage, wait forever for the rental, and finally are driving away from SLC around 10:30 (talk about crappy).

The roads were great though and Dallas was wide awake!

We get into Idaho Falls around 1:15, and can’t manage to break into my house without causing some commotion, so I finally just called my parents to come open the door. Oh their faces.

My mom thought I was going crazy telling her to open HER OWN FRONT DOOR!

But lo and behold, there we were, freezing to death in the super dry, super cold Idaho weather.

They were ecstatic.

And so were Dallas’s parents the next morning, when his mom stared at us for a good minute before realizing we were really there in person.

And then there were my old roommates. Oh boy. That was the best. Lauren opened the door, stared at me, then screamed at the top of her lungs while jumping on me. She was SUPER excited…which of course woke up the other roommates, who were too scared by the scream to even move (or in Kadee’s case, just not willing to do anything Lauren wanted her to so did not move).

I ran upstairs, opened their door, Kadee began to cry tears of joy at seeing me and Kaitlin zoomed right over for a hug. It. Was. Spectacular.

The weekend itself was great, extremely busy, but great.

Here are some pictures (courtesy of Kadee and Jenn):

Kadee and I:

Dallas and I with our newest nephew, Logan (so adorable, by the way) That night, I convince Dallas’ brother, Ryan, that the baby was ours. It took him a minute to figure out we’d only been married 3 months and that he was actually Brandon and Jenn’s!

All in all it was a wonderful trip. We were able to see our entire immediate families, all except Carmen, who of course is on a mission. We even were able to visit with lots of extended family! I’m so glad we were able to go and surprise everyone!

Merry early Christmas!!!!!

90s Flashback!

2011-12-08T14:35:00.001-07:00

This week has been filled with being extremely stressed. Finals are next week, I’m rushing to get all my projects and papers finished, on top of trying to massive clean the apartment, babysit LOTS of kids I just ADORE, and trying to keep myself completely free of any obligation this weekend so I can FOR ONCE have a nice, relaxing weekend that involves no homework!

Every time I get too stressed, I watch an episode of Sabrina, The Teenage Witch to escape reality for a bit. (All seasons and episodes are posted on youtube). I’m currently in the 3rd season. And I’ve only been watching for two weeks. See how stressed I’ve been?

Today, I watched 2 episodes that had some nice flashbacks of my childhood (there are always flashbacks, just some ones that stood out) – Backstreet Boys and N*Sync.

Then I was on a roll.

I have been dancing around the apartment (every now and again doing homework), cleaning, and doing laundry all rocking out to some of my favorite hits from these boy bands.

It’s been FANTASTIC

I sure miss those simple days of the 90s. (not the clothing though)

Oh, and Justin was definitely the cutest in N*Sync

I win

2011-12-05T22:15:00.001-07:00

It’s so funny – I’ve started to notice on Pinterest exactly what kind of rings girls are in love with and want for their wedding ring. But the best part is they’ve started trending a certain look of rings, one that has one big diamond, lots of smaller diamonds around it on inter-weaving bands.

And I look at these and go, “hmmmmmmm. I WIN!”

That’s right. I picked mine first. Before it was “cool” to have my ring.

I. Win.

Pro Babysitter

2011-12-04T11:45:00.001-07:00

Think that’s what I should become? Because I’m sure beginning to think so. This week I learned so much more of my LOVE for babysitting! Seriously, I love it. A lot. I’m actually even a little competitive and get jealous when I find out kiddos I love to babysit are being babysat by someone else. A little much? Probably. But I love it that much!!!

I love it enough that on Thanksgiving day, when our good friends were wanting to go Black Friday shopping, I volunteered Dallas and I for the whole night!!! (And honestly, how could you not with how adorable the boys we watched are!?)

On Friday, my other good friend needed someone to be home when her boys got off the bus. I was MORE than excited! (And am even planning a sleepover for those boys in a couple of weeks!!!)

We got asked after church today to watch the CUTEST baby boy you have ever seen this coming weekend, and we had to say no. I think a part of me died when I did that. I love babies. I don’t just love babies, I mean I LOVE babies!!!! You ask me to watch 20 kids and throw a baby in there, I’ll do it in a heartbeat. So why did we have to say no? We already have plans that we made WEEKS ago with some of our best friends. I have been SO excited to go do something with these friends, but turning down babysitting an adorable baby boy was too much.

That’s when I realized how much I love babysitting. I’m quite literally ready to drop everything if it means I get to go play with some kids, toddlers, or babies for awhile! I mean EVERYTHING, even fun plans with friends! Pathetic, I know. But hey, I love it! Ask my friends back home that I babysat for – I STILL volunteer to watch their kids, even though I’m hundreds of miles away and can’t do it. I’d do anything to be able to!!!

Maybe I’m addicted to babysitting. You think they have a babysitter anonymous?

So here is my public announcement to everyone:

If you need a sitter, call me up. If I’m not already watching someone else’s kids, I’ll be happy to play with yours!

The Hubby

2011-12-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

My Hubby is the best. By far. Can I just tell you all that he does for me? Over Thanksgiving, he was so wonderful and fixed up things in the apartment that I needed fixed. He helped me clean, he cleaned out our car, and when he came back from cleaning out the car – he brought me my FAVORITE Starbucks hot chocolate and coffee cake. ALL of this before I was even out of bed Wednesday morning.

He’s the best, right?

He let’s me start my own business (Scentsy), be lazy all day sometimes and stay in my pjs/don’t get ready at all (it’s actually a little pathetic sometimes), and deals with my nagging sometimes.

He even takes family pictures willingly 2 MONTHS after we got married (Let me do the math for you – pictures for engagements in July, pictures for wedding in September, and yup, again family pictures in November. Looks like we gotta keep the trend and take some January pictures!)

And as if THAT wasn’t enough to make you jealous, look at the hot model Husband I got!!!!!!!

What a hottie. I just gotta let all the girls out there know, I win. Mine’s the best and you can’t change my mind!!!!

Weird Bug?

2011-11-28T10:55:00.001-07:00

I’m thinking some super odd bug is going around. So here’s a heads up in case you get it (so you don’t think you’re dying like I of course did )

I had some pretty bad pain yesterday – on the right side of my body (mostly from the waist down to where us girlies get cramps) – but let me tell you it wasn’t like cramp pain. It was definitely something different – and I honestly don’t even know how to describe it. Dull and achy, but also sharp at times, sometimes mild, sometimes moderate.

BUT here’s the weird thing – it hurts the worst when eating. I ate anything, and that’s when it would begin hurting bad. Of course during this experience I’m freaking out thinking I have ovarian cancer or my appendix is exploding or something (I tend to like to think the worst…yeah…).

I don’t like the doctors here though. Last time I went to one, he shoved me off like everything I was having was nothing. Dead serious. (I posted about it much earlier, in October, if you remember) So not a fan of going to doctors in Louisiana. I was just going to wait it out and see what happened with the pain – see if it was constant and then the next time I went home I would see a doctor, see if it went away, or see if it worsened and I HAD to face a doctor here.

Luckily I woke up this morning with just small pain (I’ll call it “sore pain” – where it’s very very mild pain that’s the same as before, but again, just mild and almost non-existent). And I haven’t had much more trouble with it.

Still, I called my momma about it (Because mothers know everything) and sure enough, she had something very similar a couple weeks ago. Pretty much the same (pain from eating) except her pain was more located in her stomach (Still near where mine was…mine was just located to the right side). And apparently some of her friends had had the same thing.

SO our conclusion is that it is some weird bug, maybe a flu, going around. Ours only lasted a day or two. So if yours last longer than that, probably get it checked out.

Again, here were our symptoms:

Pain (mild to moderate) in the stomach/intestine areas
Pain worsened when eating.

Hope none of you have to get this bug!!

Turkey Day!

2011-11-25T11:44:00.001-07:00

Thanksgiving was sure fun!!! We are lucky enough to have an awesome “Dome Family” out here that we got to spend Thanksgiving with. Our friends from Dome and the ward got together and we all had a potluck Thanksgiving. We each brought a few of our favorite dishes, and had more than enough food for the 50 some of us that showed up for this Thanksgiving party.

I must say Natalie’s corn was the best (Who’d of thought of making creamed corn with jalapenos in them? DELICIOUS is all I can say!!!) I made sweet potatoes, green bean casserole (as always) and two pies that I’d thought I had completely butchered but turned out just fine! It was a grand ole’ time.

We ended the day with a LOOONNNGGG nap and getting to watch two of the cutest boys in Louisiana while their parents did some Black Friday shopping! (Dallas was sure happy we got to watch Top Gear all night long )

AND

I joined Scentsy. Now I am your typical Mormon housewife! (Just kidding…sort of)

So if any of you would like to order some smelly goodness or host a party, just go visit my site:

http://shelbyane.scentsy.us

or get in touch with me

AND

Here are some of our lovely family pictures we had taken last week:

(sorry – these aren’t the best ones. We saved those for the Christmas card – you will be getting that shortly)

Dear Blog Readers,

2011-11-19T15:25:00.001-07:00

I have a dilemma (again). As many of you know, Dallas and I are living in the good ole South (Louisiana to be exact). See, working with

Dome, we have a lot of opportunity to travel the world, as I have always dreamed of doing. Those of you have been reading my blog forever know that

I had always wanted to be an Anthropologist, but thought it unreasonable considering that I would have to live in various places for various amounts of

time. Not your average “family” job. But here we are, traveling (hopefully the world soon!)

Now my dilemma, you see. We are taking this job to save money for our future – for school, for a family, for a house, etc., BUT we are

also young and without children – the perfect opportunity to take advantage of. I feel like we should DO things while we are in certain areas – but

DOING things also consists of spending money – something I’m not too fond of, especially since we are trying to save. So what should we do? Live all

over the world and stay home so we can have more later? Or take advantage of this now and scrimp later?

Hmmmmmmm

To get a job, or not?

2011-11-15T06:55:00.001-07:00

I was a little sick of doing homework yesterday, and with the other dome wives suddenly all getting jobs, I started thinking about possibly getting one myself. I actually was able to find a local credit union hiring for a part-time teller. Perfect, right?! Yeah – for the most part, but I seriously cannot decide If I really want to get a job. I mean, starting next semester, I need to be taking 14 credits – all online! Yikes! And then there’s the fact that I still need to be the homemaker – clean the house, make dinner, etc. And we have our Melaleuca business I also need to take care of as well – so it seems as though I don’t have the time or will be stressed out by having a job. but on the other hand, it’s extra money, it’s only part-time so it takes away just 4 hours out of each day (maybe even less), and I seem like I’m bored all the time right now.

Ahhhhh I don’t know. Maybe I should just apply and see where it takes me?

We’ll see.

Help?

Running

2011-11-10T07:06:00.002-07:00

I'm pretty much extremely lazy. It takes a lot to get me motivated to go exercise. Seriously. I hate doing it. But every now and again, I get that motivation (for no reason at all) and decide to go running. Just like today.
It was great. There's a nice track around the lake just outside my apartment (literally right in front of my apartment), so I took advantage of the cool morning (60 degrees for all ya'll back in Idaho! I know you are jealous!) and went running.

I didn't make it far before I was completely out of breath - and again was reminded WHY I don't go running all the time. I have this problem when I go running outside. I start out running much faster than I should. When I'm on a treadmill I don't have this problem, thanks to the fact that you literally have to select a speed. I know which speeds are right to start out at. I'm outside, however, and I just want to book it. Not so bad except for my second problem. I have slight athletic asthma. So I get running, and after about a minute or two of booking it, I literally cannot breathe and my throat hurts for hours afterwards.

As great as it was getting to run on the track, I think I need to go workout at the gym first - train myself a little on the right speeds and then attempt the fresh, crisp outside air?

Now to just motivate myself again to do so.

Wedding!!

2011-11-08T10:00:00.000-07:00

Here are my lovely wedding pics (some of them) for you all to enjoy.

Cajun Country

2011-11-08T08:32:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I finally convinced my husband we needed to get OUT OF THE HOUSE for once. So we went to this cute little "old" village with some cute shops. There are photo opps there we still have yet to get, but I did manage to capture some pictures of this guy:

OK, I know he's a little hard to see. My camera doesn't have zoom. Sorry. But if you look close enough you can find him in each of the pictures (some have only his tail in the pic...sorry)

Pretty sweet, eh?

We still need to go Gator huntin'!

Primary

2011-11-08T08:28:00.003-07:00

Since we stayed up super late on Saturday night watching the LSU game, my cold that I have been attempting to fight off for days finally hit, HARD.
Sunday, even with daylight savings time, I did not go to church. Which left teaching our 4,5, and 6 year old primary kids up to Dallas. Which went alright for the most part. One child (my bestest friend) claimed that he only loves one of his parents (and later when confronted by his mother claimed he simply didn't have enough time to think of an answer but he really does love both of them). They even drew pictures of their happy families. Here is Dallas's drawing of his happy family:

All the siblings are listed in chronological order, with their spouses above them and children off to the side. I was amazed that he even managed to remember to include Logan, his newborn nephew as of a couple weeks ago.

And yet, who's missing?

That's right. His lovely WIFE! The one he chose to be stuck with for ETERNITY!

At least he noticed it and told me before he gave me the picture. Still - My picture would've consisted of just me and him. There's still so much of him left to train.... *sigh*

Reception Pictures

2011-11-01T08:29:00.001-06:00

I know- FINALLY I have some pictures up! But so far, these are the only ones I have because there were too many to e-mail to me. Now I'm just waiting for my momma to mail the CDs of the reception out to me! And waiting for our photographer to mail out the wedding day photos. Hopefully we'll get those soon!

But here are some to get you by for now!

These are the pictures of the Idaho Falls Reception (We didn't have a pro photographer take any at the Sugar City one)

What I love most about these pictures is that everyone is so happy in all of them! I was hoping this was how great the reception was going, but I was around the corner from everyone standing in line and never got to see the "life of the party" at our reception!

I"m glad to one everyone was as happy as we were to be celebrating our marriage with us.

It's great to have such wonderful friends and family!

I love you all!!!!!

Happy Halloween

2011-11-01T08:13:00.002-06:00

It's just Dallas and I. Out here. In Louisiana. No family to go party with.

But luckily we have great friends!!

We are new Primary Teachers to the 4-6 year old classes. (FUN!) One of these little boys was extremely scared of me at first (a few weeks ago), but has since fallen in love with me instead and was insistent that Dallas and I come over to carve pumpkins with him on Sunday night.

Sure enough, his mother texted me and said he was positive we were coming over to carve pumpkins so we were welcome to join. Of course we went - who could pass up a 5 -year old?

We had a lot of fun. He's a very clean child, so "gutting" the pumpkin got gross once he had to put his whole hand in and touch the slime - leaving dad to do the rest of the dirty work.

And Dallas let me do the dirty work on our own pumpkin - while he carved.

Which I was quite ok with since I got to play with the 4 month old baby while he was carving away (Who by the way was giggling and smiling all night. He was such a happy boy!)

And our final product?

(Dallas didn't take any pictures of the other pumpkins, so if I get any later I'll update for you!)

Our little friend wanted to keep our pumpkin outside their house with their pumpkins, so we left it there since we don't really have anywhere to place our pumpkin anways!

He did tell me, though, that we can pick up the pumpkin after Halloween is over :) Such a cute kid!

For Halloween night, our good friends the Pena's invited us to help them trick or treat (6 kids and 4 adults...lots of fun!)

Dallas was running the whole time racing two of the boys, and I was either playing with the cutest baby lion you ever saw or chatting it up with my BFF Karli!

It was definitely the most fun I've had on Halloween since I was 12!

Roadtrip!!!!

2011-11-01T07:40:00.003-06:00

My lovely husband and his co-workers decided to do something big on Friday. Of course, they always plan these things without informing their wives first....it's become quite the talk among the Dome Wives :)

I get a call at 10 am on Friday from my husband informing me that he is coming home early. Of course, my heart drops, thinking he got hurt at work (because why else would your husband be coming home early from a construction site?!) I asked him why, and he proceeded to tell me that he and some co-workers decided they wanted to go to the BYU v TCU game in Arlington that evening - an 8 hour drive, mind you - and I "don't have to come. Cristy needs someone to stay home with her and watch the kids."

"EXCUSE ME?!"

Needless to say, I came along - and Cristy did too (luckily finding a babysitter!)

8 hours driving there wasn't so bad. The stadium was HUGE and the game was fun. We sat in some GREAT seats right on the 50 yard line!

And that tv screen is HUGE!!!!!!!

Dallas wasn't the happiest with the outcome of them game- neither was Dustin. They both decided it wasn't worth the drive to see BYU hand it over like that to TCU.

Great. An 8 hour drive and it wasn't worth it.

They got over it though and were glad they went.

But then instead of getting a hotel that night, we drove the 8 hours straight back home, arriving about 7:30 am back in Gonzales. The rest of the weekend? Sleep. Sleep. Sleep.

It was definitely a fun trip though! :)

Jealous? Because you should be :)

2011-10-17T19:49:00.001-06:00

And this is where I live!!! Literally in my backyard (Or as “backyard” as you can get living in an apartment)

It’s the greatest.

I’m going to LOVE this winter!

Kindness

2011-10-08T22:59:00.001-06:00

My blog post today is going to be on this – on how we all can be a little bit kinder each day.

See, I had a pretty bad week. (I’m going to come out and say this so sorry to those of you who think this is TMI) I’ve had a yeast infection for the past week and a half. Ugh. SO not fun! And quite literally – I have been MISERABLE because of it. I had been taking an over-the-counter drug to clear it up – but it just wasn’t doing the trick and finally I decided to go to the doctor.

Not in the best mood, we left for the urgent care clinic. I had to fill out paper work for about 15 minutes, then do the best with the insurance info I had since I don’t have a card yet. Wait forever. Finally go back to see the doctor. The nurses came in and took my pulse, blood pressure, temperature, etc. Peed in a cup. Waited, waited, waited, waited – finally the doctor comes back for 2 seconds, scribbles out a prescription that sure to clear it up and leaves. There for a little over an hour all for a 2 second prescription.

Like I said – not in the best of moods – especially now that I felt like they didn’t care at all or answered my questions.

Here I am being kind of bitter, complaining to Dallas about it, about my horrible day, about my horrible pain, blah blah blah. We go across the street to CVS to fill the prescription. Walk to the very back – hand the guy the prescription – he discovers it’s my first time filling a prescription there, asks for the insurance. Great- now I have to go through this again.

This time though, this time was worse. Impossible actually. Because pharmacy insurance has different info than doctor insurance – go figure. So here Dallas and I are – him chatting up with the guy – me calling my mom frantically about all the info.

All still horrible, right?

Except one small thing.

This guy (his name was Brian) could have been pissed. He could have been extremely frustrated that I didn’t have all the information ready. He even said he had just been extremely busy until 5 minutes before we walked in – my insurance is impossible to find, bad situation. Normally – I would expect him to be pissed, frustrated, upset, just forget the insurance and make me pay the full price.

But he wasn’t.

Brian wasn’t at all.

He was BEYOND kind to us. He kept chatting with Dallas about our lives and his life. (He had some pretty great stories too!) Just kept letting me know what info he needed if I could get it from my parents. Even when my parents and I were having a difficult time figuring it all out (trying to do this long distance is a bit difficult), he was on his computer putting in all the info he DID have trying to search for the right insurance. And he just sat there with us for about 20 minutes trying so hard to help me find my insurance so I would only have to pay $5.00 instead of $15.00. Ten lousy dollars was all. But he was so upbeat about talking with us and finding my insurance for me.

He COMPLETELY changed my day around. Just the fact that one person was so willing to be SO KIND, SO FRIENDLY, SO HELPFUL, and not get frustrated because we just got married and didn’t quite have all this information yet changed me.

One person was all.

And I went home SO much happier because of it. I couldn’t get him out of my head. I haven’t been able to get him out of my head for the past two days. I just keep thinking “Wow. He was just SO kind. If only I could be more like that…”

See, kindness had been on my mind on and off a little since we’ve moved here to Louisiana. We have some friends down here that are just some of the kindest people I have ever met. They invite people they barely know over to give them dinner, or throw a party to introduce everyone together and form friendships. They help out however and whenever they can. They will drop anything and everything to do one small favor for anyone.

Seriously – some of the best people you will ever meet.

Then there was Brian.

And today as I was browsing the wonderful world of Facebook, I saw one post that just hit me a little bit. Someone made a post that was directed at me, just a comment that was basically an inside joke – with me being the outsider – and I just thought “That could have been very hurtful to me. That could have really offended me.” What I’m saying is it didn’t, I got over it like it was nothing. But I know how people are – and many people could be really hurt by it. Yeah – we say you can just not get offended – but even then, there are things that are REALLY hurtful to people, we feel bad if we offend on accident, but if we say something to someone purposefully being somewhat offensive, you can’t tell the other person not to get offended.

Sorry, bit of a tangent, anyway back to my point: Why do people have the need to put others down? Why do people have inside jokes that are solely meant for leaving people out? I can understand having a good inside joke, such as in my family “duty” makes us laugh every time we hear it – but it has a story behind it and we’ve done it forever – we aren’t trying to leave others out and will gladly explain it if you have the time. But to have an inside joke to put others on the outside? Why do people have the need to gossip about others? Here’s how I see it – if you have something to gossip about someone – don’t gossip – help them!!! Don’t spread the rumor about the pregnant girl in high school – go be her friend! Don’t tell everyone about how hard it is for him to speak in public – go encourage him!

I believe we all need to spread a little more kindness each day. Just imagine if we had a world of Brians! Even just 100 more Brians could make a huge difference!

So can we all please, just once a day, just once, go out of your way to be kind – hold back those bitter feelings toward the old lady taking forever at the checkout stand – offer to help her carry her groceries instead. Smile for a whole day at complete strangers. Just do something nice – be kinder – just once every day.

You’re not only changing your attitude.

You are influencing everyone else’s as well.

And just for the record…

2011-10-06T09:58:00.001-06:00

I’m madly in love with this sexy guy, and couldn’t be happier!

Sick…again

2011-10-06T09:53:00.001-06:00

Just for the record- sick days are no longer allowed at the Hawkes residence. I think it all started last Wednesday? And, well, basically every single day since, either I or Dallas have been sick in some form or another. Both of us, the most miserable, or at least close to the most, we have ever been in our lives.

Maybe quarantining us for a few days is a novel idea? Or we could quit being cheap and go see a doctor….eh, we shall see.

In the meantime – it’s homework……………and then lots of bein lazy and watching me some Audrey Hepburn :) Mmmm....for some reason I just LOVE her when I am sick!

Au Revoir!

Movie Critic

2011-10-06T09:44:00.001-06:00

Yes, I’m aware I am not a movie critic and my opinion probably doesn’t count. But I’m so upset with this move I HAVE to warn the world!

Something Borrowed – SO DUMB!

Ok, ok, at first, it wasn’t bad – your typical chick flick. Kate Hudson acting wild and drunk as always, John Krasinski looking hot as always, it was great.

But oh as it got near the ending OOOOOOOOO!!!!! Not happy. I guess this sign should go here:

SPOILER ALERT

Seriously?! Seriously! I agree – we don’t always like a predictable ending. They are no fun.

But a freaking predictable ending is better than that HORRIBLE one! I mean COME ON! Ethan would’ve been PERFECT for Rachel! I mean he IS her best friend after all! And he confessed his love to her AFTER SHE FLEW ALL THE WAY TO LONDON!

RACHEL! You just ruined your freaking best friend’s wedding! Um…really? If you really were THAT best of friends, I don’t think you would go off and sleep with her fiancé – and then after the fact STILL get together with him! HE LEFT YOUR BEST FRIEND! WHO’S TO SAY HE’S NOT GOING TO LEAVE YOU!

Oh and really? 2 months later you two can be friends again? SHE STOLE YOUR MAN, DARCY! What is this?

Not happy. Bad movie. Not worth it. Don’t see it.

Love Ya’ll!

What a day

2011-10-05T13:08:00.001-06:00

What is wrong with me today?! I have NO motivation whatsoever to do anything. And I seriously mean NO motivation! Haven’t done a bit of homework, only written 2 thank you notes, haven’t started dinner, haven’t cleaned – at least I showered!!!!

But seriously! I don’t know what’s wrong with me today! I do know that I’m not doing a single thing and feel EXTREMELY overwhelmed! I’m exhausted, my mind is thinking about a million different things (such as changing my major – now I’m thinking an associates in general studies just to make sure I at least HAVE a degree? eh?).

Maybe a good nap will help? Some drugs? A bath? Ideas people! Ideas! I’m going crazy today!

What have I done?!?!

2011-10-04T09:44:00.001-06:00

So my wonderful sister-in-law, Jen, posted this lovely picture on facebook last night. Dallas’s grandfather passed away the day we were supposed to leave for Louisiana, and therefore our trip was postponed until after the funeral. It was great for Dallas to get to see everyone who couldn’t make it to the receptions or wedding, and it was great for me to attempt to figure out who everyone was. (So far, I’ve got my immediate in-laws and his Uncle Brian’s family down – except all the little grandbabies) This picture was taken after the luncheon that day:

Can you spot me and Dallas?

As I was looking at this lovely picture (and how awful I look – sheesh), Dallas’s brother Jason made the comment that he loves being in such a big family. And I realized, dang, this is a huge family.

Not even BOTH sides of my extended family is equal to this many people! And possibly not even FURTHER extended (2nd cousins, etc) would equal this many!

I have inherited quite a bit of family. Now I know what it’s like. I always had friends who didn’t even know some of their immediate cousins because their families were so big – and I thought that was crazy.

But now? Now I understand completely!

I love this family! They are so much fun! Hopefully in time I’ll finally know everyone!

Dilemma

2011-10-03T05:30:00.001-06:00

Here in Louisiana, just about 15 minutes away from where I live, there is a little store I like to call my absolute favorite -

ANTHROPOLOGIE

Obsessed with this store.

We went there the other day – so in love – they even had cardigans on sale for $20!!! (Are you reading this Amanda? YES! $20!!!!! AMAZING I KNOW!)

I’ve also been a little obsessed with reading this blog:

Nie Nie Dialogues

Which is in amazing true story that will just break your heart.

Anyway, a friend told me her whole house and everything she and her kids wear is from Anthropologie?! (I have yet to confirm this, but hey, I would!!)

Now the dilemma. Did you look at the store website? Did you see those prices?

ugh. Only in my dreams…

although…..

the one 15 minutes away from me is hiring…..I wonder what kind of discount I could get…..

Change my major? again?

2011-09-29T13:25:00.001-06:00

Um yeah it really sucks that I love learning about lots of different things – because it makes it difficult for me to pick a major and stick to it! So far I’ve stuck with Sociology all the way through college, but I’ve considered changing (as those of you who read my blog religiously would know)

So does it come to any surprise to you that I find out about new majors and want to switch? Yeah – well Health Administration is now an online degree at BYU-I, which is a score for me since we are living in Louisiana for the next year!

But there’s also Administrative Assistant/Office Management – which is also tempting.

Um then I kind of laughed at myself because I realized the kind of jobs I want and love are office jobs – like “The Office” office jobs.

I’m crazy.

But I love it.

What to do what to do…..

You know my other option is to just get pregnant and forgo the whole school thing…..I like that one…..

I WON!!!!

2011-09-27T12:28:00.001-06:00

First of all – I never win anything. Ever.

Second of all – I WON A CAMERA! Apparently from a Bridal Show back in August. Some guy called me today to let me know that I had won and where he should send it.

Um pretty awesome, yeah? Yeah

Gonzales!!!!!

2011-09-25T19:56:00.001-06:00

I know it. I have been slacking big time on the blogging. But hey – I’m a newlywed – that’s a great excuse, right?

Well anyways, we are here in Louisiana. Hot, humid, and fun (well…the people!) Hasn’t even been a week and we’ve already met some pretty amazing friends – I don’t think I’ve been out so much in my life! There is always something going on – which is great with Dallas gone at work all the time! I’m never bored (for once)

Still waiting on the wedding pictures – don’t worry I’ll put them up as soon we get the beautiful pictures!

Now – the homemaker in me is beginning to come out now that I am a stay-at-home wife! Between all the partying and online classes – I still find downtime. So if anyone has recipes, projects, ideas, anything that sounds fun for me to try – hit me up!

Wedding Eve!!!!

2011-09-01T00:59:00.001-06:00

Of course – I can’t sleep.

But I have the most wonderful mommy who wants to stay up with me (even though she’s exhausted) because it’s my last night being single with her

Ahhh I can’t wait to be married tomorrow! I love you so much Dallas!!!

He’s home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!11

2011-08-27T23:39:00.001-06:00

Um, yes- that’s correct. My boy came home today I couldn’t be more happy.

I’ve missed him more than I could have possibly ever imagined.

And I just realized – I get married in 4 days! 4 DAYS!

Yeah still doesn’t seem real.

But look at how GREAT my bridals turned out? Taken by my wonderful friend, Tara Miller.

www.myurbanphoto.com

TOMORROW!!!!

2011-08-26T10:23:00.001-06:00

My baby gets home tomorrow!!!!! I can’t wait!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love you Punkin!

2011-08-24T19:27:00.001-06:00

I am so ready for this sexy man to get home on SATURDAY!!!

Time–and all its wonders

2011-08-23T23:17:00.001-06:00

You know, surprisingly, this whole getting married thing doesn’t entirely seem real right at first. Yeah, you’re all excited to get engaged and then the planning begins, the dress is found, the colors are picked, blah blah blah.

But you know, it doesn’t really HIT right then. And as the date slowly creeps closer and closer – it feels like time isn’t moving at all.

It’s a month before the wedding

The wedding’s still far away.

2 weeks before the wedding

Still…..far away

10 days before

You guessed it – STILL far away

Until one day you log onto your registry to make a few changes.

And you see:

BAM.

8 days?

Holy crap. I’m getting married in 8 days.

Then that split second feeling goes away.

And it’s STILL far away.

What am I doing with all this free time?

2011-08-18T19:30:00.001-06:00

Fiancé in Colorado
Working only 3 hours a day
No friends currently in Rexburg

Basically I’m bored a lot.

So mom got me obsessed with this website.

www.pinterest.com

I’ve been on it for hours today – which isn’t a bad thing – it’s giving me great ideas for cooking, baking, crafting, etc. etc.

I’m going to become the best wife ever!!!

Ok maybe not. But don’t tell Dallas

And now that I’m finished venting…

2011-08-17T09:24:00.001-06:00

Let’s leave this on a happier note.

Aren’t we so cute?

Only 15 days away now!

Wedding Planning

2011-08-17T09:22:00.001-06:00

I’d say in the two months I’ve been planning my wedding I’ve learned a lot:

1) Wedding planning really isn’t hard at all

2) Wedding planning really isn’t hard at all as long as everyone cooperates

3) No one cooperates

That’s where all my stress for planning has been coming from. The first month – a BREEZE. Then all of a sudden everything wasn’t right for everyone else – and all the drama and stress came FLOWING out.

PEOPLE: It’s really not that hard – and it’s really not that big of a deal. Listen to the bride. Do what the bride wants to do, and all flows well!

I’m sorry my wedding isn’t convenient for you – but if we made it convenient for everyone, WE WOULD NEVER GET MARRIED! Please just paste a fake smile on your face and pretend to be happy for my and Dallas’ sake. It would be much appreciated.

Good thing I have a fiancé who tries to remind me this day is about what I want and not what everyone else wants. It’s difficult to remember though when you are a people pleaser.

So a note to all who come to my wedding or reception: Judge away. I won’t be offended. Most of it wasn’t my pick anyway.

You know those times….

2011-08-07T22:57:00.001-06:00

When things just completely suck?

And you don’t even know why?

Yeah…..

Just 3 more weeks. I can do this.

2011-08-04T08:07:00.001-06:00

This whole engagement thing?

2011-08-04T07:54:00.001-06:00

Yeah, totally overrated.

It sucks.

Can we just be married now? I hate this in-between.

And I miss my boy so very very very much

I’m so excited to get to spend all of eternity with this absolutely amazing man!

2011-07-27T08:59:00.001-06:00

Why Marriage?

Because to the depths of me, I long to love one person,
With all my heart, my soul, my mind, my body...
Because I need a forever friend to trust with the intimacies of me,
Who won't hold them against me,
Who loves me when I'm unlikable,
Who sees the small child in me, and
Who looks for the divine potential of me...
Because I need to cuddle in the warmth of the night
With someone who thanks God for me,
With someone I feel blessed to hold...
Because marriage means opportunity
To grow in love in friendship...
Because marriage is a discipline
To be added to a list of achievements...
Because marriages do not fail, people fail
When they enter into marriage
Expecting another to make them whole...
Because, knowing this,
I promise myself to take full responsibility
For my spiritual, mental and physical wholeness
I create me, I take half of the responsibility for my marriage
Together we create our marriage...
Because of this understanding
The possibilities are limitless.

<3

2011-07-19T20:24:00.001-06:00

So madly in love

Your weakest moment or your biggest strength?

2011-07-19T19:54:00.001-06:00

Sometimes life really sucks.

There are days when you feel like half the world hates you.

When you are utterly alone.

When nothing seems to go in your favor.

When you feel like you are going nowhere.

When you just want to bawl.

When you wish you had your best friend here by your side.

When it takes all you have to muster a smile or laugh.

When you just feel like disappearing.

But that is the moment of your biggest test

So you choose. Are you going to rise above and bring yourself up?

or fall?

2011-07-17T21:50:00.001-06:00

Kinda a rough day today

A couple things. But oh well.

In better news – I got all my engagement pictures today!!! WOW!!!!! There are SO many to choose from…I’ll try to post as many as I can for you all to see!

Please explain…

2011-07-11T23:13:00.001-06:00

why 1 credit classes are either RIDICULOUSY easy or RIDICULOUSY hard?!

I’ve had 3 of them this semester…first one…a BREEZE.

Second one, also a breeze.

The final one?

It will be the death of me.

I’m seriously beginning to doubt I’ll get an A in the class.

As a matter of fact, I’ll just be happy to get a B-

Goodbye full-ride.

*sigh*

2011-07-11T22:58:00.001-06:00

Seriously missing my other half today

How did I get so lucky to have the best fiancé in the world?

Let me brag some more…

2011-07-08T18:36:00.001-06:00

About how WONDERFUL my fiancé is!

You see, he’s clear in Colorado, we hardly get to see each other, and with our ENTIRELY different schedules, it’s often difficult to find time to talk each day.

Yet today, I get this lovely present from the love of my life:

He’s the best! I’ve never been given a bouquet before.

When words cannot describe…

2011-07-07T22:12:00.001-06:00

“I had loved before, but I knew not why. But now I loved—with a pureness—an intensity of elevated, exalted feeling, which would lift my soul from the transitory things of this groveling sphere and expand it as the ocean. I felt that God was my heavenly Father indeed; that Jesus was my brother, and that the [husband] of my bosom was an immortal, eternal companion; a kind ministering angel, given to me as a comfort, and a crown of glory for ever and ever.”

– Parley P. Pratt

ENGAGEMENTS!

2011-07-06T18:30:00.001-06:00

Check this out:

http://ashleymackayphotography.blogspot.com/2011/07/shelby-dallas-salt-lake-city-utah.html

She is an AMAZING photographer! I have always loved her pictures and told my family YEARS ago that I wanted her to do my wedding pictures whenever I got married. Well guess what, it’s finally here, and I was lucky enough to be able to get her with her super busy schedule. Look at how amazing those photos are! I can’t wait to see them all!!

Wedding Plans

2011-07-05T18:49:00.001-06:00

Her Ring - check

His Ring - check

Date - check

Location - check

Colors - check

Dress - check

Registered - check

Photographer - check

Engagements - check

Bridesmaids - check

Flowers - check

Honeymoon - check

Reception - check

Lunch-in - check

At this point it looks like all that’s left for me to do is send out announcements and get the marriage certificate.

This whole planning a wedding thing is a breeze!

I got mine almost completely finished in less than two weeks! (stress-free )

Guess what?!

2011-07-03T10:29:00.001-06:00

Yup….that’s right

Engaged

And since everyone keeps asking, here are the details:

It actually happened two weeks ago, when I flew out to Colorado to see him. It kind of just happened – we were talking about it and he suddenly proposed. We both weren’t planning on it just then, but it was PERFECT!!!!!!!

It was one of the hardest things I had to do not to tell everyone – but finally yesterday he officially proposed at the top of the conference center (in the gardens).

The wedding is September 1st in the Idaho Falls temple. The receptions are September 9 at my house in Idaho Falls and September 10 at his house in Sugar City.

Question for ya…

2011-06-28T19:15:00.001-06:00

Why is mah man SO ATTRACTIVE?!

I hope you enjoy the fact that you make it difficult to focus on homework sometimes, Dallas

MMMMM. Can’t wait to see this face in person on Saturday!!!!!

Bleh

2011-06-22T18:18:00.001-06:00

Some days (AKA today) are really hard.

And I get super frustrated and upset and sad.

Having my boy so far away makes it even harder and frustrating.

But you know what?

I’ll get through it.

Plus it is 80 degrees outside, cloudy, and sprinkling rain.

I couldn’t ask for more perfect weather if I wanted.

I think it’s God’s way of trying to cheer me up :)

It worked.

Cloud 9

2011-06-16T18:10:00.001-06:00

In Colorado…

With the LOVE of my life

Life just CAN’T get better than this.

Successful Day

2011-06-13T23:14:00.001-06:00

First of all – it is storming outside. I love storms.

Second of all – I spent nearly $60 at the mall today. But don’t worry – here comes the good part: I SAVED $150!!!! So really I bought $210 worth of clothes, and only spent $60. VERY successful day at the mall

Also, I went down to IF to have FHE with my daddio, brother, and sister since the rest of the fam is away in Utah and California. Had some WONDERFUL talks with my daddy and sister-in-law. I just absolutely love my family.

And finally, less than 67 hours until I am once again in the wonderful state of Colorado with my amazing, kind, loving boy.

Glad my bad mood from this weekend is gone.

Now, onto much procrastinated homework.

Minor

2011-06-13T01:18:00.001-06:00

In my marriage skills class, we’ve been reading this book, “Then Comes Marriage” by Mark D. Ogletree and Douglas E Brinley. First of all, I just have to say that I’m becoming more and more sure that sociology and marriage and family studies is what I want to study – especially due to the fact that I looked at the books in my closet today and half of them had something to do with marriage. Definitely wanting to pursue family counseling. I don’t know, I just love learning about people and different connections with people – like personality types, how different people react and act, etc.

Secondly, I love this book. There were a couple cool points made that I hadn’t thought of before, like the doctrines on the concept of marriage:

1) In our premortal state, we were unable to marry or be parents.

2) This life, mortality, is our first (and for many it will be their last) opportunity to be a husband or wife, a father or mother.

3) We are apprenticing in marriage and parenthood to see if we can do well, to see if we enjoy these associations.

4) We realize that Jesus Christ made it possible for us to be eternal companions through a resurrection that allows us to remains male and female forever. The Melchizedek Priesthood contains a key to allow us to be sealed as eternal sweethearts in sacred ordinances in Church temples.

5) Spirits, alone, cannot reproduce. It is only when our spirit bodies are united with either a body of mortal flesh or a resurrected, glorified body that we can create offspring.

6) Satan’s greatest damnation, therefore, is that he can never be a husband or father – ever. He wants to make us miserable as he is. Thus he tempts us to break God’s laws and commandments to prevent our being worthy to be eternal companions.

7) We do not want to disqualify ourselves of the privilege of an eternal marriage by the way we behave in our mortal families.

8) Those who do not qualify for eternal lives remain separate and single throughout eternity (see D&C 132:17).

Some of these points were really interesting to me – like the second one – I hadn’t thought of that. But really, it is. This is in a sense our trial run of being spouses and parents – to see if it is something we enjoy and could take on as a responsibility after our life here on Earth. Also the fourth point, because of Christ’s resurrection, we are able to be together forever.

Anyway, just a little piece of some of the things I’ve been learning lately. Really though, you all should read the book if you’re interested in stuff like this like I am. It’s got some pretty cool stuff.

Frustrated

2011-06-13T00:33:00.001-06:00

1) I’m fighting off a cold – really hoping it doesn’t hit.

2) I’m already sick of school and want the semester to be over.

3) I’ve been stressing over the smallest things.

4) I just want to be in Colorado already.

5) I’m frustrated with everything because of all of this.

And I feel horrible. Because really this weekend I’ve been a bum. Frustrated at every little thing. And since I’ve been this way – I just slept through almost the whole weekend to cope. I don’t like being this way. I really feel bad for having been so grumpy.

Sorry to anyone I’ve bothered with my horrible mood.

I promise I’ll try to be better about coping with the stresses of life.

Some days it’s really hard to have your best friend 600 miles away; and your favorite roommates off-track for the summer

It’s ok. I’ll be fine. Just need to get out of this rut.

Or at least make it through tomorrow and Tuesday.

Speaking of Concerts….

2011-06-08T11:15:00.001-06:00

The Band Perry, Tim McGraw, AND Luke Bryan will be in SLC August 6th….

Who wants to join me?!

Life Must Be Perfect

2011-06-07T02:11:00.001-06:00

It’s the best thing when you can’t sleep because you are so in love.

All I can think about is all the things I feel and wish I could say, but words can’t even describe.

I love you, Dallas.

2011-06-07T02:09:00.001-06:00

"Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colours seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life."
-Bob Marley

Move Forward in Faith

2011-06-06T22:05:00.001-06:00

My friend shared this with me in the weekly e-mail that all missionaries tend to send out Although this is just the summary and not the actual devotional, I still thought it emphasized good points and wanted to share it. This has always been a big thing to me – moving forward in faith. Many people now a days seem to become scared by what’s ahead, and always afraid to take the next step. I know I’ve been there before…but I try not to live my life that way at all anymore. I move forward in faith, trusting that God will guide me, and so far with everything in my life, he has. When it’s wrong, he’s changed my path. When it’s right, he’s let me continue forward. But it’s all about us making the decision, going forth, and asking for God’s confirmation – not waiting for God to tell us what to do.

This is a lesson I’ve definitely had to learn. Many times have I prayed and prayed and prayed, and fasted and attended the temple in attempt to gain answers to my prayers about certain aspects of my life – such as which college to go to or where to work, who to date, etc. But in trial and error, I’ve learned that God isn’t simply going to tell us how to live our lives. What’s the point of having choice and free agency if he’s going to do that? The thing to remember is there are many paths we can take – and there may be many that would be WONDERFUL for us. But God isn’t going to tell us which one will be best and which will be worst – sometimes there isn’t a best one and any of the paths will work. It’s our choice what WE want to do and what path WE want to take. That isn’t to say keep God out of it, of course not. But it’s making a decision, going forward in faith, and trusting that God will guide you – if it’s wrong, He’ll let us know, as He has to me in many cases. If it’s right, there are different ways of Him letting us know –such as things will simply work out as they are supposed to – there won’t necessarily be any revelation or confirmation of the spirit, simply God will provide our way. In other cases, however, there will be small confirmations, and sometimes revelation if needed.

So I guess here is what I’m trying to get at: don’t get hung up on waiting for God to tell you what to do. And don’t get hung up on waiting for God to give you a definite answer. In some cases, yes, that does happen, but more often, that won’t happen. He will guide us in small, simple ways. He wants us to choose our paths for ourselves – and He will be our counselor, there to guide us through whichever path we take.

Anyway, sorry to get off on that little tangent. Here’s the article:

BYU-Hawaii devotional: Move forward in faith

By Jessica Black
Church News staff writer

Published: Tuesday, May 24, 2011

LAIE, HAWAII

Elder Brent H. Nielson of the First Quorum of the Seventy and first counselor in the Philippines Area Presidency spoke to BYU-Hawaii students in a devotional May 24, encouraging them about not getting stuck in the "roundabouts" of life.
Elder Nielson likened the roundabouts common at New Zealand intersections to the decisions in our daily life that cause members to get "stuck" and makes it hard for them to see what path they should take. He described five different "roundabouts" that members often find themselves trapped in.
The first roundabout is when they forget who they are and what Elder Nielson said was their "failure to understand their divine identity."
Elder Nielson said, "In all of your learning, understand that the most brilliant minds of our day are only discovering and inventing what God already knows and has created."
He went on to explain that throughout all of God's knowledge, and all that He has power over, He created man as His most prized and divine creation. He reminded students that even though man has achieved great and magnificent inventions, they should not to fall into thinking that there is no longer a need for God. He emphasized that everything surrounding them constantly testifies of God including our own existence.
The second roundabout he described is the "roundabout of sin." He encouraged the assembly to overcome sin and move forward with faith in Christ. He explained that in order to do this, they must do the things the Savior has done and submit their own will to His.
"The Savior does not want us to sit trapped by our sins," Elder Nielson said. "When we do that we miss the indescribable joy and happiness that the Atonement can bring to us."
The third roundabout he covered was the decision to serve a honorable full-time mission. He stressed that missions serve to change and help the lives of others, as well as the lives of the missionaries. Using his own experience, he told members how in his own mission to Finland, he became one of the converts and learned for himself that the Church was true.
He testified that the Lord will send missionaries to missions that are specifically tailored for them where they can learn and develop the skill necessary to become a good husband, wife, parent, and an "outstanding member of the Church."
Elder Nielson said, "The Lord needs you on a mission, but perhaps even more important you need a mission for yourself."
The fourth roundabout he mentioned was marriage and how many young single adults find themselves trapped by a world that encourages young them to get their education before they marry. He stressed that these ideas are not God's and that it is within marriage that happiness is found. He said members must not let education or other worldly pursuits come before the marriage step.
The fifth and final roundabout that he spoke on was deciding upon one's future occupation and education. He encouraged the students to simply find something that interests them and move forward in faith. He promised that as this is done, even though they might not end up in the same department they started in, as they move forward in faith new doors will open, and opportunities will present themselves.
He closed by reminding members of the audience that if they follow the commandments, the Lord is bound to bless them and help them in anyway He can. He said if they want the help of the Lord, they simply need to keep His commandments and move forward in faith

Also….

2011-06-06T20:52:00.001-06:00

Darren in his ward male pageant tonight……enjoy:

WHAT?!?!?!?!?!?

2011-06-06T20:41:00.001-06:00

JOSH TURNER IS COMING TO IDAHO FALLS?!?!?!

It’s true. I would know. I just died inside a lil bit.

DREAM.

COME.

TRUE.

I don’t even have anyone to go with – but I already bought my ticket. There’s no way I’m missing this.

My day has officially been made.

I’ll see you all at Melaleuca Field on August 25th

2011-06-03T17:49:00.001-06:00

Just woke up. Eating breakfast. Dallas opens his laptop. The fun begins. Need I say more?

Some great songs :)

2011-06-01T17:34:00.001-06:00

Ya know….

2011-05-31T22:56:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I just sit here……

……. and think

“I really love this boy”

and life can’t get much better than that.

Colorado

2011-05-31T01:15:00.001-06:00

I was gonna wait to make this post until tomorrow, but I’m wide awake, so now is as good a time as any I suppose!

Colorado was AMAZING. By far the best weekend I’ve had in a very VERY long time.

Here are just a few of the memories….

Dallas shaved his beard the first day I was there

No scruff burn this weekend!

We spent Saturday in Denver – the aquarium (which was actually pretty sweet), 16th street mall (not as fun as we’d hoped), and then the Rockies/Cardinals game….which was so sweet!!! 6 runs in the first inning alone! Pretty good game to go to!

And this picture describes what we did for basically the rest of the time

But seriously, it was such a fun weekend. I was just glad to get to be with Dallas – but he went above and beyond and made it so perfect for me.

I’m sure one lucky girl…..

Embrace Each Day

2011-05-24T07:42:00.001-06:00

Once again, I’d like to share this video:

Different phrases always seem to stick out to me every time I watch this. This time, the first phrase was “God will give you clarity, but never doubts.”

I’ve noticed this in many decisions I’ve had to make throughout my life. Most recently, determining which school I wanted to go to. As many of you know, I’ve been accepted to both Utah State and BYU-Hawaii for Fall transfer. I really REALLY wanted to go to both school over BYU-Idaho. Once I was accepted, I began making all plans to go to BYU-Hawaii, getting my housing, classes, tuition, financial aid, etc. finished up. But as time went on, I started wondering again. I began to question whether or not I really wanted to go. It began to make me so sick to my stomach from the stress of figuring out the right thing to do. I felt like God wasn’t giving me any answer, and I was at a crossroads with no direction. I had blessings and wrestled over the different pros and cons for weeks. Until at one point, I realized, sometimes God knows best and tells us exactly what he wants us to do, but more often, God knows there are multiple “best” routes, and wants us to choose for ourselves. That’s when I looked at the pros and cons one last time, and then said I’m staying here. The SECOND I made that decision, all those doubts, and all that stress was gone. Just like that. I knew He had just approved of my decision and agreed it was a good place for me to be.

“God will give you clarity, but never doubts.” I finally had my clarity.

The other part that stood out to me, as it always does, was “When you are compelled to give something up, or when things that are dear to you are withdrawn from you, know that this is your lesson to be learned right now. But know also, that as you are learning this lesson, God wants to give you something better.”

This is always a hard phrase for everyone – sacrifice is never easy. I hear this phrase and think of Jill and Kyla. I think of moving to our new house, and having to say goodbye to my best friend, Aubrey. I think of last summer, all the hardship, pain, and heartache I went through convinced that everyone else was wrong and why did I have to go through this. They were all hard – extremely difficult to handle. And at the time, I hated what was going on. I hated having to give all of those things up. I couldn’t understand why in the moment, but would come to realize why much later.

The Sullengers posted this story that I shared a while ago, but it illustrates perfectly what I mean: CLICK HERE

And my friend posted this picture on facebook:

Having been through all of this and KNOWING what sacrifice does to us has made me much stronger in my battles today. Just a small example, and not quite to the extent of most sacrifices, is Dallas leaving for Colorado. We met and began dating only weeks before he was to leave for Colorado for the entire summer. While our relationship is new, and seemingly it would be easier to do something like this having only dated a few weeks rather than a few months, it’s still extremely difficult. When we talked about whether or not we would date while he was gone, it wasn’t even a question for me. Because even though long distance can be hard, especially when we probably will only see each other once or twice during the whole summer, I know of all the good things that can come from it.

Some days, like Sunday, it’s very hard to have him gone. But so many good things are coming from it already. It’s making me all the more excited to be able to see him again this weekend. It makes me excited to miss him all the time because I know how much I care for him that I AM missing him. It’s making our relationship grow because we really have to TRY, we AREN’T around each other all the time or can go visit each other with a 10 minute drive. We have to make the effort to call each other and talk, to talk about what’s going on in our lives, as well as just discussing whatever we feel like. We are getting to know each other rather than just cuddling and hanging out all the time. And one of the biggest things for me, we have TRUST. Something like this would never work without trust.

Things may suck. Things may be hard. But knowing that God is giving us this hard time so that we may have something better always helps to get through it.

Education

2011-05-22T21:33:00.001-06:00

Lauren and I decided to walk around the river last night since we no longer live together and miss seeing each other all the time…..

(By the way, the river is VERY high – flooding in spots around the greenbelt…which is kinda sweet, but also kinda scary.)

Anyway, we got talking about all our education goals, and let me tell you, Lauren and I have a lot. Basically, I would love to go to school the rest of my life and get multiple degrees. Sounds insane? Possibly – but that’s just me I guess. I don’t like NOT being busy…I love learning things and keeping myself DOING something.

So Lauren and I decided we need to keep each other motivated, because we both have these HUGE goals. Like:

1) Get my Bachelors in Sociology or Social Work with a minor in Marriage and Family Studies (hopefully in under 3 years)

2) Get a certificate in Dental Assisting and possibly get a Bachelors in Dental Hygiene.

3) Beauty School?

4) Masters in Sociology or Social Work

5) Masters in Anthropology

6) Certified in Phlebotomy

7) And get ALL of this done in under 10 years. Think I can do it? My bestie and I think we can do it….

And then? Who knows…….maybe get more degrees – depending on this point how busy I am…..assuming I’ll probably be married with children.

Just some thoughts – I have some pretty big goals for my life.

2011-05-22T21:24:00.001-06:00

Really missin my boy today.

Just need to make it 4 more days…

The Adventures of Sundies

2011-05-22T16:35:00.001-06:00

Blast from the Past?!

2011-05-18T22:10:00.001-06:00

Aqua’s coming back!!

YES!

Today I Don’t Feel Like Doing Anything,

2011-05-16T11:38:00.001-06:00

Maybe I’ll finally catch up on my sleep

Or not…since I’ll screw it all up again in 10 days when I go see this boy in Colorado

(Yeah, Dallas will probably hate me for this….)

Happy Birthday, Kyla

2011-05-11T07:48:00.001-06:00

Happy Happy Birthday to dear Kyla. I sure miss you, sweet girl. We all love you and can’t wait to see you again.

I love you Kyla.

Happy Birthday, pretty girl!

Sunday Delights

2011-05-08T19:48:00.001-06:00

Happy Mother's Day Mommy!!!

I came home for the weekend to hear Brian speak in church (about the bark...hahaha for those who get it)

Then made dinner for mommy.

It was fun to see my siblings since I never seem to see them anymore.

Matt cut his hair! I think he looks supah fly.

So I made mommy take pictures of us.

Just look at those pictures.

Right, right?

My brother's so classy....and single.....ladies ;)

168 Hours

2011-05-07T03:41:00.001-06:00

Tonight was such a good night with the boyfriend.

Actually, every night for the past week have been such good nights with the boyfriend.

A week from now is SERIOUSLY going to suck.

But hey, that’s 168 hours away, which means 168 hours left for me to enjoy.

Everything is wonderful.

Just thought you should know…

2011-05-05T07:30:00.001-06:00

I saw four shooting stars last night while stargazing. Yes, four in the hour that I was out there.

It’s time to start my summer count for shooting stars…..

Mmmm I just love summer. And this one’s going to be a good one. I can tell.

Oh the College life….again

2011-05-03T01:12:00.001-06:00

Yup. Only the second week of the semester and I’ve already screwed over my sleep schedule. Oh sleepless nights and tiring days, here we come.

Been well worth it though……

Thought Overload

2011-05-01T09:41:00.001-06:00

Let me just say I can’t believe some of the things that have occurred in the past 24 hours……

Wow.

It’s been a little ridiculous.

But other parts were really really good

The people here in Rexburg…………wow.

My brother’s reception up in Idaho was yesterday, meaning lots of family came to visit, meaning my two (sorta) nieces came, which means lots of good stories.

Like playing Barbies.

Danneke: (while searching through our giant box of barbies) I need a boyfriend. (Picks up a headless Ken doll) With a head.

Brian and I laughed so hard.

And the entire day was like this.

I came home to my apartment living room covered with sleeping girls I did not know. A little awkward? Most definitely. Still have yet to go downstairs this morning…..

And I suppose that’s all for now.

Oh, I can’t see my blog again. I can’t figure out why it does this to me, but last time you all were able to still read my blog, so I shall continue to post.

Sorry this one was so random and made no sense really. Just unloading my thoughts.

Here’s Danneke attempting to drive my G6 yesterday……

Everybody

2011-04-27T00:32:00.001-06:00

We are falling down again tonight
In this world it's hard to get it right
Try to make your heart fit like a glove
What it needs is love, love, love
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Happy is the heart that still feels pain
Darkness drains and light will come again
Swing open up your chest and let it in
Just let the love, love, love be-gin
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Oh everybody know the love
Everybody hold the love
Everbody folds for love
Everybody feels the love
Everybody steels the love
Everybody heels with love
Just let the love, love, love be-gin
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
(Just let the love, love, love be-gin)
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
(Just let the love, love, love be-gin)
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Everybody feels the love
Everybody steels to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Everybody, Everybody wants to love
Everybody, Everybody wants to be loved
Oh oh oh, oh oh oh
Hm hm hm hm

2009 Pontiac G6?

2011-04-27T00:23:00.001-06:00

That’s right.

Actual pictures to come when I can take them in the daylight, considering it is currently 12:20 and pitch black outside…

Exterior (Dark Gray is the actual color)

Interior….this picture is so you can see everything pretty well but……

The interior actually looks more like this: Black!

Love it too much?

Probably.

My Wishlist

2011-04-25T21:02:00.001-06:00

Anyone who wants to be so kind as to purchase any of these items for me would be my bestest friend forever and ever

http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=dress&product_id=2000010719&Page=4&pgcount=100

http://store.delias.com/item.do?itemID=55037&categoryID=1998&sizeFilter=&colorFilter=&brandFilter=

http://store.delias.com/item.do?itemID=55034&categoryID=1998&sizeFilter=&colorFilter=&brandFilter=#

http://www.forever21.com/product.asp?catalog_name=FOREVER21&category_name=dress&product_id=2000010588&Page=4&pgcount=100

http://www.modcloth.com/Womens/Dresses/-Flying-Horses-Dress

http://www.modcloth.com/Womens/Dresses/-To-the-Lighthouse-Dress

http://www.modcloth.com/Womens/Dresses/-Lost-in-a-Book-Dress

Well, you get the idea

Brian and Nichole

2011-04-24T10:31:00.001-06:00

As many of you know, my favorite brother was married on April 12, 2011 to the lovely Nichole.

Here are a few pictures from the wedding.

Come to the reception!

It’s on the 30th at the Stake Center on Brentwood in Idaho falls.

Fit for Life

2011-04-24T10:13:00.001-06:00

I’m taking a class this semester called Fit for Life. I took it to be healthier, obviously. I’ve always wanted to be better about exercising and eating healthy, but I’m horrible at disciplining myself. So, I enrolled in this course to force me to do it, because now it’s homework and in order to get an A I need to exercise daily and eat healthy. Good motivation, right?

I’m LOVING it so far. Just reading the first chapter of our book, I’ve learned so much and am doing all I can to be better. Such as getting up early. I’ve always been an early bird, but it’s far too easy for me to roll over in bed when my alarm goes off and fall asleep for another 20 minutes. I’m still up by 7:00 every morning, but for me, that’s late. Early to bed and early to rise is a phrase we have all been taught over and over again. But how to make that “early to rise” part easier?

A couple things I’ve noticed that help me:

First, stretch in the morning when you first wake up. It gets your blood flowing and helps wake you up.

Open the blinds; let the sunlight in!!!!! I was sly in picking my bedroom up here at college, and I chose the one with 3 windows rather than just one. Nope, I did not do this on accident. I specifically picked more sunlight, because I love natural light!!! I wake up now, and open the blinds to 2 of my windows, letting as much sunlight in as possible. Believe me, it does wake you up.

GET OUT OF BED! After you stretch and open those blinds, don’t get back into bed! Don’t sit in bed to read or check your phone or whatever else. Go downstairs (Or upstairs…whichever it is for you) and move around. Make yourself breakfast – something HEALTHY.

Like this morning, I made myself eggs and toast and ate a banana. And as I ate, I read. I read my scriptures. Then I read my book. You could read the newspaper or a magazine even. But get your mind moving!

I’m planning on beginning to exercise in the mornings as well – either go running or do yoga every morning.

It may not seem like it, but getting up early actually gives you more energy throughout the day. Trust me on this. We all know when we sleep in, we wake up feeling groggy and tired.

DON’T HIT THAT SNOOZE BUTTON!

GET UP!

EMBRACE THE MORNING!

<3 Summer

2011-04-22T18:08:00.001-06:00

Why?

Let me count:

1) Hiking

2) Lagoon

3) Sunshine

4) Boating

5) Swimming

6) Craters of the Moon

7) Grass

8) Warm summer nights

9) Stargazing

10) Camping

11) Fishing

12) Flowers

13) Evening Walks

14) Picnics

15) Warmth

16) Zoo

17) Ice Cream

18) Memorial Day

19) Independence Day

20) Horseback Riding

21) Visiting Grandpa

22) Visiting the farm

23) BBQs

24) Campfires

25) Night Games

26) Florida? (Cross my fingers)

27) Concerts

28) Road Trips

29) Gardens

30) Tennis

31) Chirping Birds

32) Fresh fruit and vegetables

33) Longer days

34) Drive In

35) Early morning running

36) Chesterfield

37) Summer breeze

38) The “feeling” of summer

39) Relaxation

40) Bike riding

41) Rollerblading

42) Walks around the Greenbelt

43) Modeling

44) Taking a million pictures

45) Sitting on the roof watching sunsets

46) Backpacking

47) Day trips

48) Yellowstone

49) Sun Valley

50) IT’S SUMMER!

I could go on, and on, and on, and on.

But I love summer a lot.

And I can’t tell you just how excited I am for all of this.

It’s so close.

So So close

Spring Semester starts tomorrow……

2011-04-18T22:03:00.001-06:00

and I think this break wasn’t long enough. I’m definitely ready for more vacation time.

But despite my wishes, that won’t be happening. And I have class tomorrow.

*sigh*

It’ll be good though….three months, another semester done, that much closer to my degree, cute boys in classes……

It’ll be good.