Wingsuit what now?

My husband has lost it!  The past few days he has developed a facination/obsession with wing suit base jumping.  Wing suit base jumping...what the *!#$&*@)#!  That's exactly what I thought!  You have to watch this video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttz5oPpF1Js

Because that doesn't look dangerous or terrifying at all...

So basically it consists of purchasing an extremely expensive wing suit (a.k.a squirrel or bird suit) that hopefully allows you to fly, and then jumping crazily off of an enormous cliff, while proceeding to fall to your death!  I'll pass.  I'm not sure what was funnier (is that even a word), the fact that my husband thought I would let him do it, of the fact he turned to me and asked if I would do it with him...what are you nuts!  No thanks, not a chance!  Not sure what my husbands deal is with flying, but I assure you he'll be sticking to airplanes.  I'm such a mean wife...

Family pictures and a new church calling...

Christmas is almost here!   I'm so excited!  It's starting to feel very Christmasy at our house.  I love having a fireplace this year, not only for the fire, but to hang the stockings from.  It is a must.  Jarom and I got our real Christmas tree again this year, I've decided it's the only way to go. (I  have loved starting our own family traditions. Last year and this coming year we plan to have our own Christmas morning together before getting together with our families.  I really enjoyed that last year, just the two of us.  It's been a fun memory of mine of our own "little family."

Back to the tree...I love walking into a pine smelling home.  I'm also going to put in another plug real quick about how amazing my new found love the candle "leaves" is from Bath and Body Works.  Put the two together and it's like heaven. (I wish I could enter a smell here...wouldn't that be fantastic). I love the Pandora Christmas Station, it has been playing reguarly. And, I'm almost done with my Christmas shopping!  Yay!

Jarom recieved a new calling in church to serve as Secretary in the Young Men's Presidency.  He's really excited that he'll be involved with the Young Men's Program and that he'll be able to teach and be more involved with Scouting.  He's also about to finish up another gruling semester, and is hoping to obtain his Multi-Engine Pilot certificate in between semesters.  We are shopping around to try to find the most affordable program.  It's only a 4-day program, but those things are not cheap!  Jarom's been working really hard so we could save up and pay cash for it.   I'm a proud wife :)

We recently had family pictures taken.  We have pictures back from the Brown family. I was pretty dissapointed with how most of them turned out, but I thought I would at least post one of the whole group and my cute nieces and nephews...

How lucky am I that I went from having 0 nieces and nephews to 9 within a year or so...?  Aren't they the cutest!  It's crazy to me how different each of their personalities are, but I love having these cute kids to love. 

And lastly, I realize I may be biased, but Jarom is so great.  Typically Men leave it to their wives to sign up for things at church, or service opportunities, but not Jarom.  A few months ago we had a ward chili cook-off, (Yay!) and Jarom, knowing I would be working that day and wouldn't be able to go, signed up not only to attend with my sweet Mom, but signed up to make and bring one of our favorite salads.  Cute right?  Then for Thanksgiving he signed up for the food drive to donate certain food items, and for Chirstmas he grabbed an ornament for Sub-for-Santa...He is such a great example to me, and is always quick to think of others.

When we lived in Pleasant Grove, we had a Stake President talk to us about paying Fast Offerings and giving service.  He taught us that paying our fast offerings should be a true sacrafice, and challenged each of us to double what we had been paying for our fast offereings in order to help all of those in need.  He promised if we did, not only would our faith be increased, but our blessings would be significantly multiplied.  I hadn't had much experience personally paying fast offereings, and I remember feeling hesitant knowing how tight things already were, and that what he was asking was a "hard" thing, but Jarom was immediately onboard.   He offered a suggestion as to what we should pay, and ever since then every month as I write the check he  just smiles and asks me "Is it a sacrafice?"  Since then, my testimony of paying tithing and fast offerings has grown tremendously and with Jarom's help I now know that it's not so much about how much we pay, but about the principle and our willingness to obey.  All in all, it has been some great advice and a great blessing in our lives and in our marriage and I'm grateful everyday for Jarom's example...

Nightmares...

Have you ever had a terrible night's sleep...because of what you were dreaming.  Last night, despite my efforts to think of anything else, I dreamt about the most awful and hurtful things, all night long.  It was the kind of sleep that you beg to wake up from so you can escape it, but even after being awake, and you realize it was just a dream...you still can't quite shake the emotions you were feeling.  And then, you're left feeling upset and wondering why in the crap did you just dream about all of that anyway.  Because there must be a reason right?  I'm sure it has something to do with feelings of insecurity and a loss of control, because lets be honest, I've felt both of those a time or two over the past several crazy years of my life.

I got a phone call from work this morning about 4 a.m. telling me to come into work at 10 a.m. instead of at 6 this morning.  I was grateful to be woken up, but relieved I would be able to go back to sleep since I felt exhausted from not sleeping well all night.  But it didn't mater, no matter how many times I tried to go back to sleep the dream continued...so here I am.  Blogging, at 6:30 a.m.  hoping to get all those negative feelings out so I can go about my day not feeling all choked up and upset inside. 

It amazes me how much of an effect dreaming can have on a person...or am I just crazy? 

It is moments like these that I am especially thankful for the power of prayer, and a loving Heavenly Father who knows what it is I am struggling with personally, without me having to describe every detail or thought.  He just knows. 

"I am led to believe that our Heavenly Father loves us so much that the things that are important to us become important to Him, just because he loves us...Please believe how very much your loving Heavenly Father wants to bless you, but we must ask for His help.  This is generally done through prayer.  Prayer is one of the most precious gifts of God to man."  -Elder J. Devn Cornish of the Seventy (The Privilege of Prayer)

Poison & Wine

"Poison & Wine"  By the Civil Wars

You only know what I want you to
I know everything you don't want me to
Oh your mouth is poison, your mouth is wine
You think your dreams are the same as mine
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
Oh I don't love you but I always will
I always will

I wish you'd hold me when I turn my back
The less I give the more I get back
Oh your hands can heal, your hands can bruise
I don't have a choice but I'd still choose you

Oh I don't love you but I always will

Oh I don't love you but I always will

Oh I don't love you but I always will

Oh I don't love you but I always will

Oh I don't love you but I always will

Oh I don't love you but I always will

Oh I don't love you but I always will

 

I always will

I always will

I always will

I always will

I always will

Mission Call

Great news!  Jayden recieved his mission call on Wednesday!  He was called to the Vancouver Canada Mission, which is funny, because Jayden absolutely loves warm weather.  He keeps his bedroom at like 85 degrees, and I'm pretty sure it'll be cold in Canada, but I hear it's beautiful!  :)   His call came in the mail Wednesday afternoon and we had to wait until that night when everyone could get home. Jayden was so anxious, and couldn't get over the fact that whatever was typed after the "You have been called to serve in the..."  would determine where he would live for the next two years, and litterally change his life.  It never gets old to hear a missionary read that first paragraph...I'll have to post the little video we got.  It was pretty funny.  :)  All he kept saying was "like what do they eat there?  Bison?" lol.

His area is pretty big, and reaches as far North to border Alaska!  He leaves December 28th, (surprisingly soon!) We're just grateful he'll be with us for the holidays!  He'll be in the MTC for 3 weeks, and then off to Canada.  He's really excited and can't wait to say "eh" all the time ha ha.  I just love my kid brother...  He's the best, and I'm totally proud of him.  In the mean time I'll be searching with my mom for some crazy winter coats and lots of layers for the scrawny kid...

Park City

For our most recent date night, Jarom and I took a drive through the canyon and into Park City.  I wasn't quite sure where we were going, (I'm not 100% convinced that Jarom did either), but he insisted on going for a drive and that's where we ended up.  The leaves were amazing. I was glad we went, I was worried I wouldn't get the chance to see the leaves change before winter came.  I didn't get any pictures, wife fail....but hopefully one day when I get a nice smart phone, it'll have an amazing camera attached to it so I will always have it with me ;)  cough, cough.  Jarom and I drove up and down the Main Street looking at all the cute houses.  I love the quaint little houses up in Park City with the wood doors, and earth tone colors, some cabin style...if I wouldn't have to worry about the snow and commuting in it I would live there forever...maybe we'll retire in the woods one day ;)   We stopped at a few art galleries that were open on Main Street.  Jarom especially loves looking at the photography because so many of the photographs are taken in Zion National Park, and other famous nearby areas that Jarom can relate to since he grew up in Southern Utah.  This one photographer used all natural lighting, and his photographs were not edited.  They were amazing...some photos sold for up to $98,000 dollars!  Can you imagine...I about died.  After looking through some shops and stopping by Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory for my all time favorite chocolate dipped pretzels and a toffee carmel apple, we headed over to the Outlet Mall for some shopping which is always my favorite...not so much Jaroms, but he was a good sport.  We ate dinner at Ruby Tuesdays...their white cheddar mashed potatoes were to die for, and Jar ordered a blackberry lemonade which was a first, but it was so delicous!  I love going out, we had a great time.  I think having no plan and just going, makes for some of the best nights, (which is huge coming from me, since I'm such a crazy planner all of the time). Somedays I really stop and think how crazy different Jarom and I are, but it works, and I love it!

I love that fall is here...Nothing screams fall more than the color of changing leaves, having the fireplace on, smell good stuff, and great harvest bread (expensive, but so worth it, just had to throw that in there)  :)  I'm pretty sure I have zero decorations for this time of year, and so, on my list of things to do today is to stop by JoAnn's for what will hopefully be a good find, and on sale of course.  My fingers are crossed.  We need some pumpkins for the front porch too!  I also recently discovered a new love of mine, the "Leaves" scented candle at Bath and Body Works.  It is seriously amazing...try it, you will love it and trust me, you'll thank me later....

Dancing

Last week, Jarom told me he had a surprise for me that I had to wait until friday for.  For those of you that know me, I'm terrible with surprises...I was on him all day about it and wouldn't let it go, but he never caved, the good man.  Friday came, and by some miracle, I had forgotten entirely about it.  He told me to get dressed and that we were going out and he drove me out to west valley ish to a church (scary right), and then I realized what we were doing.  Jarom's Aunt and Uncle have invited us before to some dance lessons that they teach but I had never really pushed going because I didn' think Jarom would be into it, and instead he found out all about and surprised me.  Husband points! We were terrible, but we had so much fun.  This week we took on the Waltz, and Swing dancing.  We gave it an honest attempt, lol.  Also, I'm pretty sure I am the worst at following someone elses lead, and I am grateful for a husband who refuses to let me wear the pants because lets be honest, if he would allow it, I totally would.  Moral of the story, I'm glad I married me a man's man...becaues I'm a stubborn little thing, and who doesn't enjoy being taken care of?  I wish I would have gotten some pictures, I'm pretty sure we were definetly the youngest couple there.  But, if any of you are dying to have some free dance lessons let me know...It's the first Friday of every month, and it is definetly a good time....  :)

The Money Class

For my birthday back in April, Jarom bought me this book called "The Money Class" by Suze Orman.  I grew up listening to Suze Orman with my Mom and have grown to love her blatant honesty and advice when it comes down to what you can and cannot afford. With that being said, I was really anxious to get her new book, set some financial goals, and to educate myself.  Since then, I have been reading a little at a time, and have been setting some goals and making adjustments to our budget here and there.  The book starts out talking about defining yourself by who you are, not what you have.  I think this is particuarlly challenging for newlyweds who have grown up with a particular lifestyle and then expect a similar lifestyle "have what our parents have" mentality just shortly after being married.  It has been an adjustment, but it has been so much more rewarding to stick to our goals, be patient, and save up for a particular item when in reality we could have ran out and bought it right then if we had cut corners, cheated our budget, put it on the credit card or used our emergency savings.  Suze Orman also offers great advice on:


*Having an 8 month emergency savings fund
*Saving for big ticket items
*Retirment planning in your 20's and 30's
*Applying 15% of your total income towards retirement- starting now!
*401k's and Roth IRA's
*Maximizing employment benefits
*When to Own vs. Rent
*The rules of buying a new home (20% down, or you can't afford it)
*Student loans/repayment
*Everything you need to know about your credit score
*Investing
*The rules of using a debit card
*Living below your means
And it goes on and on...

You're probably thinking I am such a nerd, but I have really enjoyed learning more about financial freedom.  Don't get me wrong, I know all of these things may not be totally realistic, and are perhaps an ideal situation, but it gives you a basis to plan and work towards.  I realize we probably won't be able to put 20% down on a home when we are ready to buy, but by making it our goal, we'll probably have much more than we would have if we hadn't set the goal.  We may have to wait quite a bit longer than we would like to, but in the end it will be worth it.  My parents have been a great example to me and because they established good habits early on and lived below their means, they have been able to avoid debt and provide us (their kids) with a financially stable childhood/ and future for my siblings.  I want that for Jarom and I, and for our family.  Especially because of our large amounts of school loan debt.  I've learned it's not just going to go away, and that you have to take control of it, rather than let it take control of you.  :)   Wow, if that wasn't cheesball I don't know what is...

Also, I've really taken to heart the advice and counsel we've been given from our sweet Prophet, his Apostles, and our church leaders to work on our food storage supply.   I'm proud to say we are making improvements, despite our lack of storage space.  Before it seemed so overwhelming, but I'm actually really enjoying it, a little at a time.  I'm all signed up for the cannery this coming weekend...first-timer!  Should be a good time...

And to wrap it up, some insite from President Thomas S. Monson

"May I assure you, there is no shame in a couple having to scrimp and save. It is generally during these challenging times that you will grow closer together as you learn to sacrafice and to make difficult decisions."

Changes...

Jarom started a new part-time job this week.  He's working at Million Air, which is a fixed based operation out at the airport where private planes and jets fly into.  I'm so excited for him.  Jarom was so patient and prayerful about finding a job.  He was having a rather difficult time, particuarlly with the economy and unemployment rate the way it was/is.  After a long search with no success, Jarom and I talked and prayed about him working and we decided it was more important for him to focus on his classes and get his degree done as quickly as possible.  It wasn't always easy, and was at times stressful, but we felt grateful to be in a position where Jarom wouldn't have to work.  Since then, Jarom has been juggling 18-22 credits a semester and has been doing really well. 

Fast forward 3 semesters....After taking a break from the job search, Jarom really wanted to start looking again and felt working part-time would help break up all of his school work.  I didn't want him to take on too much or get stuck with a job that he wouldn't enjoy, but his school schedule ended up being quite flexible this semester and this more than perfect job fell into his lap!  I know everything happens for a reason, and I truly feel this has been the best thing for us. I think where we would be if Jarom would have worked full-time but continued to take 9-10 credits a semester. We probably would have a little extra money in our pockets, a new washer and dryer (since ours continue to struggle), or a nice little vaca, but who knows how many more years of school!  I wouldn't go back and change a thing.  I know we just neded to be patient and have some faith.  Jarom has now been able to complete his degree much more quickly than we had anticipated, and he has this perfect temporary job until he can graduate with his Bachelors Degree next April. 

He won't be flying just yet, but he'll get to park and direct the aircrafts, get the planes ready to go, and escort the pilots around.  We are hoping he can make some great contacts, get some information, and maybe even find a less expensive way to get his multiengine certificate, let alone have some fun!  :)

I have the best husband ever!  I just love him, and am totally proud of him.  He's been working so hard.  I'm a lucky woman...

Spinach Salad

Found this recipe online...it was a huge hit with the husband and so easy to throw together!  Everyone has seemed to like it and I now make it all the time   Thought I would share...

8 ounces fresh spinach

1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup dried sweetened cranberries (Craisins)

2 tablespoons toasted sliced almonds (optional)

1/2 cup feta (optional) or 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled (optional)

1/2 cup balsamic vinaigrette dressing

2 tablespoons orange juice

1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)

Directions:

1. Wash and clean spinach. Tear into bit sized pieces and place in serving bowl.

2. Add half of cheese and 1/4 onion. Toss to combine.

3. Combine dressing ingredients (vinaigrette, orange juice, and orange zest) in a small mixing bowl.

4. Pour over salad and toss to coat.

5. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Top with Craisins and almonds. Serve immediately. 

So delicious.  Enjoy!

Appreciation

The past month I have been feeling a lot of burnout from work and have been working with some particuarlly difficult patients. People literally open their lives up to you and it's been difficult for me at times to not bring the emotions from work home with me. Seeing people struggle with depression, drug overdose, drug addictions, and abuse has made me so grateful for the comforts that I enjoy on a daily basis.

Just last week I recieved a letter from a patient I had cared for a while back. People have always been very appreciative of the care they recieve, but this was a first! It was a simple letter, but it meant the world to me and that quickly I was able to put everything aside and remember why I chose to be a nurse. It felt so good to know I had made a difference in that persons life for that short moment. I've found being a nurse can be exhausting, but I'm so greatful I chose it as a career.

Since that letter, I have thought a lot about how I show appreciation to those around me. This patient mentioned in his letter that "all too often when we recieve great customer service we think that was nice and go about our lives, not giving recognition..." and I thought to myself why is that. It's interesting how something as simple as saying thank you often goes unsaid. People love to feel appreciated and needed, and I hope to make a greater effort to acknowledge and be appreciative of the things people do for me...

Sweet Summertime...

I have loved this summer...I can't believe it is coming to an end, but I love fall and am looking forward to the leaves changing.  We have been so busy.  The first week of August, Jarom and I drove to Indio California for our family vacation with the Brown family. We had so much fun on our little road trip, just the two of us. We are loving our new car. It was literally 110 degrees in Indio, but it was a lot of fun. They had some awesome pools and lazy rivers that we spent most of our time in, and we got to spend so much time with our nieces and nephews :)  

Jayden was ordained an Elder last week. He's working on getting his mission papers in. I'm so proud of him, he's the best kid brother...He got his wisdom teeth out today.  That kid is hillarious.

Also this summer we've survived 3 crazy rain storms which have mildly flooded the basement. We hiked Mount Timpanogos for the first time, had several BBQ's and fire pits in the backyard, we survived speaking in church, hit up the Alpine Slide in Park City, been to a few Bee's Baseball games, and we signed up for an adult recreation soccer team lol. Go us! We are so excited!  Our first game is tomorrow...stay tuned!  The other day I said to Jarom that we need to get in shape, and he told me "I am in shape,....round is a shape" :) ha ha. I love him.  We're planning a camping trip this weekend, just the two of us.  :)    I can't wait.  I'll post some pictures...

Jarom finished up the second block of his summer semester, and just started his fall classes! 22 credits this semester!  His courses are through UVU but are online, which we are excited about since we are still up in Murray and we can cut back on the commute.  We're hoping he can get his Multi-engine flying certificate this year too.  He needs it before he graduates but it is sooo expensive! We've been comparing the pricing of different flight schools.  Even with his full plate this semester Jar has insisted on finding a part time job.  He has a job interview friday out at the airport...fingers are crossed.  I'm so proud of him...

 

We made our first impulse buy this past week. A few years ago, Jar's dirt bike was stolen out of the back of his truck in Cedar City, and we've been wanting one ever since. We love to go riding...and the other day we came across this 70 cc dirt bike while on our way to a baseball game and we couldn't help ourselves. I'm trying to work on my spontaneity, it's exhausting trying to be such a planner all the time...it needs a little tlc, but we got a killer deal on it.

Jarom and I have been so blessed.  We've been able to spend so much time together and have really been able to focus on our marriage and enjoy this stage of our lives.  We stay busy, but our schedules have been flexible enough that we are always able to make time for each other.  I've realized Jarom and I will never be able to get this time back and that our lives could change durastically over the next few years.  It is so easy to get caught up in the excitement of the future, but I don't want to look back and remember these times as missed moments or opportunities.  Life is too short...so we continue to play hard.  I was surprised when we got married how many people advised us to just enjoy being married for a while, play hard, and continue to get to know each other better.  I think it's been some great advice...  :)  

Salvaged Title = Death.

Great news! We found a new car that we love! And when I say new car, naturally I mean a "new used car," but we love it nonetheless. Turns out my cute old junker isn't worth much more than a dime, so some peeps are coming to haul it off for us tomorrow. I'm a little sad about it. I'd really like to be able to say "now take good care of it for me..." or I hope you enjoy it as much as I did" in good faith that they will, but that would be lies considering it'll be on it's way to the salvage yard to be ripped apart for scrap metal and used parts. Tear.

Has anyone else been excited enough about a new car that within the first few hours of owning it you've been found washing it, vacuuming and detailing the interior, or just sitting in it with the music up loud, AC blowing cold, basking in all of it's greatness just because you can? Pretty sure I was..., which is slightly embarassing, especially after the husband came looking for me wondering what the heck I had been doing for hours parked in the garage,...but then I remind myself that 2 weeks ago I was driving to work with my high beams on (insert angry drivers, and headlights and fingers being flashed my way...., here) because my headlights would occasionally decide not to work or the fact that I haven't enjoyed AC in my vehicle for over 2 summers now, or that my new car actually has a lumbar support! What a concept! Or the best yet, that my old car was named as a fire hazard because of the seriously compromised fuse box and open electrical wiring. (Don't worry, that was the last day I drove that car...) And then I feel a titch less lame and entirely grateful to be able to have a "new used car"....

Although almost anything would be considered an upgrade from my past vehicle, this newish vehicle is loved and very much appreciated! :)

Disclaimer: The safety and reliability of purchasing a vehicle with a Salvaged or Branded Title cannot be guaranteed. Period. Don't do it people....no matter how much you love it or how great of a deal it appears you will be getting.

In case you were wondering, my cute little blue car, which looked and drove perfectly when we bought it about 4 years ago had a salvaged title.

It is safe to say our "new used car" most definetly has a clean title. Will we be purchasing clean titles from here on out until we die?....You betcha! :)

Happy Friday!

We're a bunch of Sickies at our house...

June was such a busy month for us. Jarom and I had a family reunion up Logan Canyon which made for our first camping trip of the year. We had a great time. We celebrated the baby blessing of one of our nephews and went to the zoo with Jarom's family, which we had been wanting to do for awhile now. Jarom finished up his crazy first half of summer semester, and began his second half of summer semester without as much as a weekend for a break. My cute little blue car finally decided to call it quits. Even with all the trouble it's given me lately, I'm so sad to see it go. I loved that car. My cute Mom won us some free tickets to the Wendover Air Show, which we couldn't pass up. It was an incredibly warm day, but Jarom and I both loved it and we had a fun little road trip :)

Since then, we've been searching for a new car, and trying to get over this sickness the husband and I managed to get. We didn't have much of a 4th of July. The both of us have been laid up on the couch or in bed for most of the weekend trying to take care of each other. We did manage to play a few games and watch some fireworks with our family, so we weren't entirely lame, and we had a BBQ and hung out with some friends prior to us being sick. As for now, I'm pretty sure our apartment is infested with a significant amount of germs. I haven't been able to convince myself to get up and get things cleaned up, but for now I'm over it, considering I can't even walk up the stairs without wearing myself out entirely, so instead we've resorted to having a Pirates of the Carribean movie marathon while eating chocolate creamies. I've decided I'm not very good at being sick and would make a terrible patient....poor Jarom. I think he's probably growing tired of my inability to decided if I'm cold or hot and my nasty cough that has been keeping him up all night.

Assuming this sickness will eventually go away (after letting it run it's course, and having taken a whole bottle of Vitamin C tablets), we're hoping tomorrow will be the last day I'll have to worry about sharing the truck with the husband, which is a stick shift mind you...

Here's to hoping for a better week than the week has been so far....

Cheers!

Easter, etc....

For easter Jarom and I went down to Hurricane to celebrate with family and to also celebrate our niece Cailin's baptism. These are my girls in their adorable easter dresses....

Jarom and I bought the kids some kites and took them out one day. This was my favorite, our nephew Asher refused to fly his kite more than 2-3 feet away from him. It was hillarious...Jarom tried to show him that the kite wouldn't fly him away by flying his kite really high, but Asher wouldn't have any of it. In Asher's defense, it was super windy ;)

Jarom and Roxie Jo


Jarom's Mom plans a big easter egg hunt for the kids and family every year, this year Jarom spoiled me too. Between the both of them, we had candy coming out of our ears. He hid the biggest easter eggs known to man for me to find. They were filled with wonderful things :) I was totally surprised and was in love with my ginormous pink eggs. I just love my husband.

Nothing really new...Jarom started up his Summer semester at UVU just after a 10 day break from Spring semester. He's taking 20 credits this semester. I'm totally proud of him, I don't think I ever took more than 16 credits at a time and that was pushing it...and I was one of those wierd people that LIKED school. As for Jarom, I could think of at least a million things he likes more than an organized, established learning environment school and homework...

I had a fabulous Birthday. After planning our entire getaway to Vegas for our Anniversary, Jarom spoiled me for my Birthday and took me on a little shopping spree. (April was a great month for me) :) We celebrated my Birthday with Jarom's family while we were down for Easter weekend, and then went out to dinner to Olive Garden with my family when we got home. 23...I'm getting so old. Thanks for all of the birthday wishes!

Jarom and I have been teaching the 12 year old Sunday School class at church. It has been really fun to have this calling together. I've really enjoyed watching Jarom with the kids. He's a great teacher and is so good to fill in when I have to work Sunday's.

This Summer Jarom and I are planning a trip to Indio California with Jarom's family for a week...we're looking forward to another vacation and some sunshine, especially after all of this never-ending rain.

And to sum it up, my husband still rocks :) Last night when I got home from work, Jarom had a picnic blanket thrown out on the lawn for dinner with pillows, and games....I love coming home to him. Marriage is the greatest... :)


Cheers!

Vegas...!!

Just wanted to post a few pictures of Jar and I from our 1 year anniversary....we kept our cake, and were brave enough to give it a try. It actually tasted really good. I was impressed. It was kind of fun to see it again. I loved my wedding cake. It was perfect...

Jarom planned a sweet little getaway to Vegas for us, activites and all. I just love him a lot...I think he's pretty fabulous.

Jarom and I ate at The Hard Rock Cafe. Our waitress name was "BIG Deb". I can't believe I didn't get a picture with her (so insert one here), but she was a big, loud, tough looking woman. I'm pretty sure I would be afraid of her if she wouldn't have been so nice, and I'm pretty sure she could have kicked mine, and Jarom's butts for that matter. (Sorry hunny). Anyway, Big Deb made it a point to make sure everyone in the restaurant knew it was our 1 year anniversary and brought us out some candles and everything. It was totally fun. We even managed to get a picture with our friends KISS out front. Ignore our scary eyes in that picture...

A picture of "Jarom and Marisa in the house" - according to Big Deb :)

Jarom took me to V the Ultimate Variety show at Planet Hollywood. We loved it. Saw some crazy stuff...but I'm still stuck on the magician guy. He pulled like 7 birds out of nowhere in less than 2 minutes. 1 was a full grown parrot! I have no idea how or where he was hiding them. I even tried so close to watch his every move. I only lost sleep over it for 2 nights...it's fine. (Sorry again for the scary eyes. One of these days maybe we'll invest in a super nice camera) We also got some free tickets to an Australian version (not what your thinking) of whose line is it anyways comedy show.

We stayed at The Stratosphere. They overbooked our room so we were upgraded which was a nice surprise. We also got to go up in the tower for free, which was awesome. Neither of us had been up there before. It was definitely a different way to see Vegas at night.

This is pretty much how the gambling aspect of the trip went...I really wanted to gamble, because lets be honest who doesn't go to Vegas and slip in a few quarters at least once in their life. I've never done it before, and I just wanted to for fun, but Jarom being the good husband that he is wasn't having it. So then once he found out that I wasn't joking and that I really did want to gamble he felt bad and at least took a picture. (Please ignore the blue out of service screen)...pretty pathetic. I think so, but I'm happy I married me a good man. Thanks for ruining my dreams and sucking the fun out of my first gambling experience making me want to be a better woman, and for literally being my better half. Don't worry, I have since realized he's right and have gotten over it. ;)

I surprised Jar by taking him to the Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay. We saw a lot of really cool stuff. I had my first encounter with Jelly Fish and an Octopus, we played with Sting Rays, and saw some sweet Sharks (naturally).

We ended our trip by going to the Las Vegas Temple. Neither of us had been there and it was a great way to celebrate and remember the covenants we made with each other and with our Heavenly Father over a year ago. I'm so grateful for the Temple and for the knowledge I have that families can be together forever.

Orchid...

Today, I bought an Orchid, (happy 1 year anniversary to me!) and I'm as pleasant as a peach about it. :) I have been looking for a fake one to put in my front room, because I just love them and think they are totally beautiful, but they all looked so too fake. But today, when I was at costco I found a real one, and it is pretty much perfect. I was reading on the tag that you only have to water it every 25 DAYS! And now I'm even more pleased! It's pretty much the perfect flower. I think I can handle every 25 days. Now if I can just keep it alive.... Also, Jarom and I teach the 12 year old Sunday school class, but really jarom teaches it because I work every other weekend and on the weekends I've been off we've been out of town, so tomorrow is my first time teaching and I'm slightly nervous. Jarom does such a great job. He is so good with the kids, and they all love him. I can't even bring treats because it's fast sunday. I hope it goes,....well. :) I'll keep you posted. Happy Sunday everyone...

We're Home!

Jarom and I just got back from a family vacation with my family in Cabo. I needed a break, especially from this cold wet, snowy weather. The weather in Cabo was perfect. 70's-80's and sunny everyday. We had a great time, but we are excited to be back home. I can't remember the last time I was this excited to sleep in my own bed! Almost a year ago, Jarom and I went to Cabo for our Honeymoon (I mention this partially because well lets be honest our anniversary is on my mind, and I never get sick of this place). I love the people, the culture, the weather, the ocean views, and the food is amazing. This year we decided we wanted to drive up the coast to Costa Azul to try out one of the most popular body boarding and surfing locations for the locals. So we crammed all six of us into our tiny rental car to try it out. Long story short...everyone loved it. Even Jacie and I went out there time after time to hit the waves. My mom even gave it a go. The boys were a little more brave (but ended up with a bunch of salt water up there nose when they got tossed around and taken out by the bigger waves further out). Some of the waves were huge! We also went snorkeling at Santa Maria Beach and around Pelican Rock. Josh was able to barter with the locals to get us a great deal on some waverunners, so we took those out one day. And of coarse we hit up the local market for some shopping. We've been there enough that we either already have it or it's just junk...so we didn't really buy much this year. (sorry family) Just our usual vanilla. (I'm trying this new thing where I'm more frugal. I want to be able to save more and be more financially sound. And lets be honest, I don't know much about investing or retirement. I must say Suzy Orman has inspired me. I haven't read her latest book, but I want it. hint hint to the husband) Anyway, we stopped at Walmart one day and found a plastic bat with some balls and we took them out and played a game of baseball on the beach. It was seriously my favorite part of the trip. Just a couple pictures to share...

Sunday Jarom and I will be celebrating our 1 year anniversary! I can't wait to pull out our wedding cake and be all traditional and whatnot. Jarom surprised me with a trip to Vegas and he has some fun things planned. We leave Wednesday. I'm so excited! Road trip :)

I can't even believe it's been a year. Marriage is so fabulous, but I'm not going to sit here and pretend that it's been perfect...in fact I went into marriage with the famous saying that "The first year of marriage is the hardest" in the forefront of my mind...but it seemed everyone I talked to denied that statement all together saying it had been a breeze which left me feeling like I had failed to some extent...but the reality of it is, which I can look back and understand now, is that we haven't failed at all, but have infact gained much more than we otherwise would have. Jarom and I have had our fair share of challenges, trials, and disappointments, but we've always been by each others side and supported one another, even while we were dating.

I'm apologizing in advance for the tangent I'm about to go on, but let me just explain that I only asked for 8 days off for this vacation...and I got 12. Today was supposed to be my first day back...and I got put on call. So we are going on 13 days here people! I have had way to much time on my hands, and too much time to think. I'm not complaining or anything, and I love PTO, but sometimes it's just nice to come home and get back to life you know? Anyway...

I thought I knew what a perfect marriage was, because I saw a great example of it everday, until one day it was gone...just like that. I have since learned that marriage isn't about being perfect. It's about making mistakes and forgiving one another, because that's how we learn and ultimately how we grow. It requires sacrafice, hard work, effort, and more importantly marriage is a choice and a committment you have to make everyday.

Is it possible to have a "marriage that is too perfect?" I think so. In my mind, perfect marriages are dangerous. In a perfect marriage, there is little room for growth and improvement and it is easy to become comfortable. You are probably thinking who am I to say...I have only been married for a year. Don't get me wrong, I know I still have so much to learn, but I have also learned a lot. And isn't that what trials are for...to help us learn, and grow, and become better people? So, for me, I'll leave a perfect marriage for the next life, avoid taking the things that matter most for granit, and continue striving for a marriage that is even better today than it was yesterday...

I'll be the first to admit that I'm a little hopeless romantic. Occasionally I'll make Jarom sit down and watch a good chick flick with me...and I love quotes. So here's one for you:

"You only have three choices when it comes to love; give up, give in, or give it your all. You decide which one's worth it..."

Happy Honeymoon Anniversary Jar! ;)

Blonde moment...

Today....I flooded my kitchen. I know, awesome. Not feeling so bright at the moment. Who floods their own kitchen. How embarassing right? I am the biggest multi-tasker. If I'm not doing 5 things at once, I go stir crazy. It drives Jarom nuts....

This afternoon I thought I would be productive and get an early start on dinner so I threw some frozen meat into the sink to thaw, put the plug in the drain, flipped on the water and walked away! (Real smart Marisa) Walked back a few minutes (too long) later to find water pouring over the sink, and all over the floor. I screamed Jarom's name, grabbed every single towel in the linen cabinent that we own (after turning the water off of course) while Jarom grabbed our worthless piece of work mop, and then we laughed...alot. About an hour later we had it all cleaned up.

That's what I get for being too inpatient to stand and wait for the sink to fill for a whole 2 minutes. What can I say...it's a really big sink!? :)

On a happier note...we leave for cabo a week from today, which is probably a great thing. I could use a vacation and some warm weather. Lately nothing I say comes out right. I've been saying the most unusual things, flooding my kitchen, having the strangest of dreams, and sleeping terribly. (Quick sidenote: can I just say that Jarom can fall asleep in 25 seconds flat. Literally 7-8 deep breaths and he's gone, with the occasional snore and all. How abnoxious...)

I love April. For the past 21 years of my life, my birthday has always fallen right in the middle of finals week, but not anymore! So instead of being my crazy stressed out self over final exams and grades, I'll be crazy and stressed out about turning 23. (I still find myself doing the math in my head to make sure that's really right, because the thought of me turning 23 seems crazy)

I also am really excited and looking forward to celebrating my 1 year Anniversay with my hunny. (I love you Jar). I can't believe it's already been a year! Our upcoming anniversay has come up a few times in conversations over the past few weeks and everytime, Jarom will accidentally call it our "honeymoon" instead of our anniversary. It makes me laugh. My husband... :) I love him.

Anyway, that's all I have for now. Don't judge people.

Happy Monday!

I've recently become re-addicted to...

No-Bakes!

These are a childhood favorite. Haven't had them in forever...and now I'm making them for the second night in a row (feelin' like a fatty and proud of it). Thought I would share...

Mix in a saucepan:
2 cups sugar
1/4 cup cocoa
1/2 cup milk
and 1 stick of butter

Bring to a boil and boil for 1 minute
Remove from heat and stir in:

1 tsp. vanilla
3 cups quick oats
and 1/2 cup chopped nuts if desired (I like to leave the nuts out)

Mix well and drop onto wax paper in small spoonfulls.
Allow time to cool off and set up :)

Enjoy! They are delicious.

Happy Valentines Day!

Best day ever... :)

I love my husband.

Happy Valentines Day everyone!

Top Ten...

Top Ten for the past/up-coming month:

1- 2 new nephews! I am in love. Jeremy and Kaylee welcomed Bridger on January 4th, and Cade and Jen, Calum on January 20th. Disclaimer: Everyone is lying when they say baby hunger is satisfied when other family members have babies. Lets be honest, they are adorable. :)

Uncle Jarom and Bridger

Calum

2- We moved! It was a bitter sweet day leaving our first apartment.


The Bitter: Packing, cold weather, the expense of a 26' Uhaul moving truck (how we obtained so much stuff in our first year of marriage is beyond me), cleaning like crazy to get our measly deposit back, and the thoughts of now having to commute to and from work/school.

The Sweet: Leaving our crazy neighbors (emphasis on the crazy), priceless memories (tender), a lot of help from family and friends, a beautiful new kitchen, parking in a garage, being closer and supportive for family, and the home ward, nothing more homey than our "new" supportive home ward.

3- Jarom started a new semester taking 18 credits. What a champ. After showing up for three days to a full Ceramics class (which he wasn't enrolled in), the teacher finally gave in and let him in. Jarom is a natural. I was never able to make something on the wheel...and Jarom, well, see the photos below to see what he was making on just the first few days of class. He has a full plate this semester with Meteorology, Biology, Air Traffic Control, Aviation Law ect. (This is one of those moments I feel pure joy that I am done with school, for now). But, I'm totally proud of the husband for sticking in there and finishing up strong. Only a year-ish left!


4- Tickets to the Monster Truck show. February 18th. We are stoked. Enough said.

5- Taking a trip to St. George this weekend, hoping for some nice weather and a lot of time with those cute babies.

6- Hair appointment for Wednesay...yep. Made the top ten. My bangs are literally 2 inches too long. Can't wait.

7- Valentines Day! Cheesy? Perhaps, but what can I say, I love my husband and I love the holiday.

8- Cable is being set up in our home in less than 24 hours! It has been greatly missed. To the crazy girl from Salt Lake on the Bachelor...thank you for providing us all with entertainment and making people from Utah look bad. On a higher note, The Amazing Race Season Premiere is on February 20th 8/7 central. Guarantee I'll be watching. And, the Cowboys are back :)

9- Finally filed for my name change on my passport so we can book a much needed vacation to Cabo!

and 10- We found a great deal on a used washer and bought it to replace our not so reliable old one :)

It's been/will be a busy month!

Milk Day...

So yesterday, I'm sitting in the front room talking to my husband about his classes this semester and all that jazz, and he says: "Guess what, Monday we don't have class. It's Milk Day." I immediately gave him a crazy look, started laughing and said you mean Martin Luther King Day? He looked back at his paper and said OH! MLK day. With all the letters capitalized it looked like there was an I in there when you just glance at it...ha ha.



I love my husband.

Happy MILK day on Monday everyone! :)

Right now...I am angry.

Right now, I feel totally angry, so I decided I'm going to blog it all out real quick, and get on and get over it. Jarom and I are going to a BYU art show tonight with my Mom and brother, which should be really fun, and I want to have a good time at home later with the husband. So, with that being said...heard this song, loved it, can relate to it, so I'm posting it.

Jar Of Hearts

by Christina Perri

I know I can't take one more step toward you, cause all that's waiting is regret
and don't you know I'm not your ghost anymore, you lost the love I loved the most.
I learned to live, half alive and now you want me one more time.

Who do you think you are, runnin' round leaving scars, collecting your jar of hearts
and tearing love apart, you're gonna catch a cold, from the ice inside your soul, so don't
come back for me, who do you think you are.

I hear your askin all around if I am anywhere
to be found, but I have grown too strong to ever fall back in your arms.
I learned to live half alive, and now you want me one more time.

Who do you think you are, runnin' round leaving scars, collecting your jar of hearts
and tearing love apart, you're gonna catch a cold, from the ice inside your soul, so don't
come back for me, who do you think you are.

It took so long just to feel alright, remember how to put back the light in my eyes...you broke all your promises, and now you're back, you don't get to get me back.

Who do you think you are, runnin' round leaving scars, collecting your jar of hearts

and tearing love apart, you're gonna catch a cold, from the ice inside your soul, so don't

come back for me, don't come back at all, and who do you think you are?

Runnin' round leaving scars, collecting your jar of hearts, and tearing love apart.

You're gonna catch a cold, from the ice inside your soul,

don't come back for me, don't come back at all.

Who do you think you are, who do you think you are, who do you think you are...

And to UVU's bookstore:

....thanks so much for listing 2 out of 3 of my husbands textbooks for this semester online incorrectly. I love ordering and spending $270.61 on textbooks from half.com that my husband doesn't need. And I especially love the trouble of having to now attempt to re-sell them online and re-order the correct ones with the unlimited amount of money we have from the money tree growin' out back. Thanks! For NOTHING!

Jarom always tells me that you get to choose how you are feeling and that nobody can MAKE you do something or feel a certain way...The gift of free agency, so I guess I'll choose not to be upset, and instead be grateful for a loving, supportive, and wise husband, for our good health, and for our testimonies and membership in the church. With that being said...

"You can't go hating others who have done wrong to you. Sometimes we get angry, but let the good Lord do his job, you just pray for them..."

I'll be praying...