Savanna's Sagas!

February Goodness

2012-02-01T12:11:00.000-07:00

I saw that Jenn has pinned this on Pinterest and I think it's great!

Source: Uploaded by user via Jennifer on Pinterest

Some of the things listed are a little weird, but hey it's a new challenge and plus I think it's sort of neat. Plus I love pictures! So here's my picture for February 1, 2012:

My View Today

I know it's winter and there is NO snow but this is the backside of my office. It's spectacular in the spring when the river is super high. Last year that pavement was under water! Either way I love the river, usually this time of year its just one big piece of ice. So very unusual. I hope that means that our summer starts earlier and is extra hot. I miss cursing the heat!

I just realized that this year is a leap year! That's exciting! We better have a party to celebrate our extra day of the year.

Last night I had a little bit of a meltdown. It was odd. Considering it just came out of nowhere. Maybe it was becuase I had an extra exhausting day or I'm going through some personal changes. Either way I had a breakdown. It didn't help that I took some of it out on B, good thing he just let me sit there and get it all out. Then of course he laid on the Lovesac with me and watched a movie. He's had a pretty rough couple of days so between the two of us we are a hot mess. That's OK, like can't always be rainbows and butterflies! I swear it felt like a Friday, and it's only Wednesday. Oh well I'll take it!

Weekend and Up-do's!

2012-01-31T11:56:00.002-07:00

I had a crazy Monday so I wasn’t able to update my life andmy weekend. It was eventful of course, nothing in life is ever really boringright? Friday night we went to dinner with B’s sister Megan and her husband(and B’s BFF) Tyson. They had never been to Famous Dave’s BBQ so we went! Itwas really good and we had a really good time just catching up. Megan is duewith her 5^th in a couple weeks and they are still deciding on names.For most of the dinner we came up with some pretty interesting names! It was alot of fun, that night we went to B’s cousin Chris’s basketball game. I just reminisceda lot about how last year at this time we were doing the same exact thing… justin a little different circumstance. Saturday we just chilled and then decidedto go to Idaho Falls because B had left his credit card at the restaurant thenight before. Silly kid! Then it was Jimmer time! We first watched the Jazz vsKings game in which Jimmer choked at the end… sad day for Jimmer… No worriesthough Riana had the BYU documentary of last years’ time and we relived theglory days of Jimmer. It was a lot of fun! Sunday was our ward conference so alot of meetings, but all of them were great! We went to dinner at B’s mom’shouse! It was good to play with the kids and we had fun just chatting.

One thing I learned about this weekend is that sometimeseven if you apologize for your wrong doings for some, it’s not enough. Theynever wanted the problem to be fixed in the first place, in which you just haveto say to yourself that you’ve done your best and now it’s out of your control.The longer you sit and think about it, they more it just makes the problemworse. So surround yourself with people who build you up, make you feel betterabout yourself, and make you want to be a better person. No one is perfect, andI think sometimes we all forget that. Most importantly you’re not going to getalong with everyone in this world, that’s just a fact, but I firmly believethat you’ll be held accountable for how you act and react to people and theirsituations. So make the most out of life, either you forgive move on and becomebetter or just use excuses to justify your actions!

Yesterdayfor FHE was a lot of fun. The boys had 20 mins to do our hair, and whoever hadthe best hairdo would got a prize. B and Anthony were totally into it, and Iwas like laughing at how intense they were. I was also surprised at how wellthe boys could braid. Good job boys! I had to show B how to work a bobbypin,and how to tease my hair, but other than that he did everything on his own. Itwas a lot of fun, and the boys were all so creative and really good sports. Weall laughed at our great hairdos, and B was like ok now I appreciate that cutelittle braid you put in your hair sometimes, that’s hard to do! Yeah and trydoing it to yourself...

Here's my before shot...

Looking good so far!

Totally impressed with the braid, a little crooked but nonetheless great!

They sure loved that hairspray!

Anthony's was very intricate...

Oh awesome!

Uh ok??

Yeah we totally have the best hair EVER!

Dani was the winner, it looks fab!

Anthony's final masterpiece!

I had the best and hottest hair stylist. He did fantastic and even took me out for ice cream after...

The back... yeah I get to have a comb!

Ahhhhhh Holy Crap

2012-01-27T13:36:00.001-07:00

I can't believe Friday is here again, as B said to me yesterday "the longest day of the whole week", I laughed pretty hard because he's right. Friday's are painfully long because I want my weekend to start already.

B often makes fun of me because I'm a planner. It's true I just have to know what is going on, where we need to be, and what needs to be accomplished. I guess it's good that he is the opposite because he doesn't have an opinion or really care about what's going on, as long as we are having fun. That's where my alter-ego Eunice seems to be present because I swear I even have to plan out "relaxing on the couch with B while he does his homework". Who does that? Haha, me apparently. So it has to be my control issues kicking in when things don't always go my way, or the plans are a little messed up, I guess that's good for me. That's my trial in life maybe, letting some things just go with flow and being OK with that. I've had this problem my whole life, for instance, when my brothers and I would be playing and then they did something I didn't want them to do I would be so dramatic. Faking broken arms, legs, threatening to run away you name it I tried it. That's probably a form of manipulation, and that's not good either. I've been trying really hard lately to tell Eunice to just be quiet, because Eunice annoys me I can't imagine how other people feel. I wish I could just shut her off completely, but I really don't know how to do that... I think that's why a lot of the times I'll just not say anything at all, I don't want to spew some nonsense out! I haven't decided how to make both sides of myself agree but I'll get there. Don't worry I don't have a split personality or anything.

Anyway, that has just been on my mind lately, and imagine that I didn't write it in a Facebook status! HAHA! There were some great ones this week, most of them made me laugh out LOUD because they were that great. Here are some of my favorites this week:

If you dnt want to take the time to rply wit more than 2 wrds jus dnt txt back at all. Cuz I wnt waste my time.

I found this so funny. Obviously we don't have time to waste we can't even use vowels. Sometimes all that needs to be said is OK in a text, I guess I'll do OK sounds good next time?

Why am I even on here? I really don't care what anyone is up to right now...ahhhhh

LIAR! If you really didn't care you wouldn't check Facebook guarantee! Plus that just sounds rude!

Hey Canadian Facebook friends, stop talking about who you want OUR president to be!

I literally laughed out loud at this one. Just because well it is technically true.

I'm looking for a good debate. Anyone want to start one?

Debate this - What is the dumbest status you have ever read. Wait this one!

Why is everyone killing the whales?

HAHA! For lipstick? And please define everyone... it's illegal these days.

I know this sounds pathic (not a typo that's how it was really spelled) but I need to really make more friends.

One rule of advice don't try to hard, maybe this status breaks this rule?

Iwuvdre

???? Maybe it's supposed to mean I love Dre... like Dr. Dre.

Ahhhhh... holy crap

These status I hate the most, so cryptic so you HAVE to ask them what's going on. Hence the reason for my title of this post. LOL annoying right? Know what the problem really was (after reading the comments)? I don't have clean underwear. Ewww TMI...

Have a great weekend!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

2012-01-26T11:16:00.001-07:00

It’s here again! Thursday which means it’s Friday Eve butalso a conglomeration of my awkward and awesome moments throughout the pastcouple of weeks:

Awkward:

There is a time and place for everything. Thanking a girlfor another girl’s phone number is NOT appropriate in a room full of people waitingto hear an FHE lesson from you. It was awkward for all…
I know it’s bad talking about people behind their backs. Iwill call it venting, but even more awkward when that person hears you ventingabout them. My response? Well go ahead and sit down I’ll tell you to your face,but then they just walk away.
This repeat offender on my awkward list made it again. The vendingmachine at work sometimes doesn’t give you your “purchase” so hearing thisco-worker beg for a dollar so he can get two for one is even more awkward. Whenthey actually start doing a celebratory dance because they got a free bag ofBugles that’s when I just walk away …fast.
Leggings are not pants… it’s just awkward. As least makesure your sweater or shirt is long enough to cover the appropriate areas.
Grown-up high water pants… cringe.
Spam mail in my email. Honestly I cannot even repeat whatthis one email was advertising in the subject. Made me blush…
Thinking that B had died or something yesterday because hewouldn’t answer my phone calls or text messages, or anybody’s call. Only tofind out he was studying in part of the building that didn’t have service. Iwas ready to call the police, scared me to death! I guess I better stopwatching so much One Tree Hill.
When Skyping B’s kids his daughter asked me when we weregetting married, I played it off well because you know she’s 5, but I don’t knowif she bought it or not, she’s pretty stinkin’ smart. It’s now a common occurrenceevery time I talk to her. The first time was a little awkward, now it’s justfunny.
Having a cold or in my case also the flu. A lot of awkwardthings happen when you’re sick you know bodily fluids etc… hahaha!
Watching a girl flat out fall on her face when she wascrossing the crosswalk in front of me. I didn’t know what to do, should I askif she’s ok? Pretend I was on my phone? Or laugh? You can guess which one Idid.

Awesome:

Spending time with my family and B in Parma. It was soawesome!
My iPad, I’m in love with it (still), and so is B (it’scalled Slotmania)…
I love how much my brothers and sisters make me laugh.
My Valentine’s gift I am making, it’s going to be amazing!
Catching up with Riana
New shampoo and conditioner… If you haven’t ever tried Enjoyyou are missing out, I can’t stop touching my hair J
How B still gives me butterflies even after a year ofknowing him…
Kristin my work BFF, she seriously is awesome, she knowspretty much everything about me and work sucks when she isn’t there.
A new book, it’s been WAY too long since I’ve read a book Icannot put down. It’s called Divergent, if you loved the Hunger Games you’llLOVE this one.
How much B makes me laugh every day. Even when I’m annoyed becausehe’s making fun of me it’s still really funny.
My parents and everything they do for me!
Breakfast for dinner
That it is currently snowing and I actually have really missed it, so odd, but I just want to play in it!
New nail polish colors!

Oh my awesomely awkward life!

Around the Interwebs!

2012-01-24T11:44:00.000-07:00

Two awesome and amazing things I found today on the web:

First this video from Ellen

I'm so doing this. Maybe I will let B do it (since he's a really good dancer) and I'll record. I wish I could do it at church, oh the fun that we would have! We are going to do it though, and I'll post the video on here, after I submit to Ellen that is. I'll take $100 gift card to Target!!

Next is this:

http://www.100abandonedhouses.com/

The story and decline of Detroit, Michigan is one of global economic movement. Google it and see the pictures of the abandon factories and stories of the now unemployed. How a city went from 2 million to just 700,000 in small amount of time. These houses are all around Detroit. I read over 12,000 homes are abandon there. Mostly because there are no jobs, when the economy crashed in 2008 Detroit was already in its downfall because of the car companies. These houses paint a haunted picture of what elegance and beauty used to be Motor City. If only I was a bazillionaire I would buy half of these houses and restore them. They are beautiful. It's actually sort of spooky... There's my history in the making kicking in, sorry history is just part of who I am!

A Choice

2012-01-23T15:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday at church I kept having the same thoughts over andover again, how choices affect everything. My choice to stay in my ward, tostay in Rexburg, to stay true to what I feel is right etc… I guess it happenedas I sat there contemplating just how happy I was, a choice to be happy. I meanI have trials, my life is far from perfect, and well there is still a LOT Ineed to work on, but happiness is choice. When I was thinking that B turned andlooked at me and said “thank you for everything you do for me” then just wenton reading some more, and I just smiled (because well I don’t think I do THATmuch for him) because that was another zinger. I guess I just realized that theonly way to be really happy is to just be yourself, I’ve always known that, butfor a little while I think I was trying to be someone who everyone thought Ishould be.

Happiness is a funny thing. People search their whole livesfor it when actually it all depends on who you are. A choice to be happy thatday or a choice to be grumpy. A couple times this weekend I was just in a funk,I wasn’t my usual peppy self but I didn’t know why I was feeling that wayeither. Nothing had happened to make me feel that way, then I thought, helloyou can choose to sit here and be grumpy or you can at least enjoy this momentright now.

My weekend was great. B had a lot of homework especiallysince we played so much the weekend before, it was catch up time. So that gaveme time to paint my nails (something I love doing, and sometimes I don’t get achance), catch up on my DVR, and then I helped B with his business law. I feltbad that I was being so lame just sitting inside all day but then I realizedthat I was totally happy just being me. I even got to cook, hooray! I alsothought a lot about last year at this time, how I was starting to fall for thatboy B and I thought I really didn’t have a chance in crap that he would EVERdate me, but look here we are a year later. This weekend will be year since ourfirst date (don’t worry I asked him, haha…) but how crazy it’s been since then. How mychoices have shaped my happiness today.

And so let me conclude this most random blog that startedout about choices of happiness and ended with me reminiscing… I’m random but I’mhappy, and it’s a Monday. Love it!

This picture is from our first date... haha... can't you tell I was so nervous? It was also our first picture together. I was like um hey can I get a picture, like he's a celebrity or something. Nerd Alert!

Facebook Status

2012-01-20T16:03:00.000-07:00

It’s been a short week it seems since I’ve only been to workthree days this week, considering my illness and being in Parma. I’m notcomplaining about that fact that’s for sure. It’s just crazy to think it’s theweekend, the beautiful weekend! I also have nothing planned, just helping Bwith homework and organizing my life somewhat. Today I was looking on Facebookand came across someone’s status that made me literally roll my eyes, then Iburst out laughing. I don’t know if it has already been done or not but Itotally want to write a book about what people post as their statuses. Not thatI’m innocent from posting an occasional quote that summarized how I felt orcomplained about my sickness, I mean that’s what statuses are for right? I’vedecided though that some are just outright ridiculous!! I’ve compiled myfavorite ridiculous ones from the week and please enjoy them (or in some casesgag). I’ve changed some details because well if I didn’t pretty sure you couldguess who they are…
“Need a gf in real life, and has blonde hair, blue eyes,average size. someone who isnt full of bs and likes dogs. im not picky”

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Not picky huh?

“Jus got done doin Sallys hair n make gotta say I did a gr8job J”

Ok what, when I update a status I read it atleast 100 times to make sure it makes sense I don’t want to embarrass myself! Thegrammar in the status makes me cringe, what is Jus? Is it that hard to type “and”,really “gr8”?

“This is how awesomely selfless I am: I got my family anXbox 360 250G with Kinect and three games for their late Christmas gift. And I’mhappy that I did it too JI know that they’ll enjoy and appreciate it.”

Wow, pretty proud of yourself aren’t you? Well Igot my mom and dad a Snuggie so bam top that.

“Lovinggggggg my life”

Not sure about the extra “g’s”? Does that giveit extra meaninggggggg?

“Who wants to go and climb trees with me?”

I laughed SO hard when I read this. Ok 1. It iswinter, 2. This would be hilarious seeing this grown man climb a tree… I willpass.

“I love my (insertboyfriend, husband, girlfriend, lover) so much. Everyone should be jealous ofthe love we have, it’s forever and passionate”

Pretty sure you are in high school and prettysure you’ll be broken up tomorrow

“I’m bored someone talk to me” or “Like for a text message”

I know Facebook is a time filler, but actuallyadmitting it is a whole different ball game!

Feel free to add your favorites. I think I will keep aweekly update on my favorite statuses of the week, I mean something’s are just too good to let go of right? Have agreat weekenddddddddddddddd!

Parma and the Flu!

2012-01-18T11:37:00.000-07:00

I had a wild and crazy weekend. Friday was a busy day atwork so we didn’t end up heading home until 5:00. Which was OK considering theroads were clear and B has a DVD player in his car that makes the time go byreally fast! We got into Parma and everyone came over to say hey, that Liam isso cute! Saturday we all got up and got ready for lunch at the Great Wall ChinaBuffet. B does and excellent Chinese impression, and with him and Austincombined they had us rolling. The buffet was really good and we all felt thoroughlysatisfied after eating there. There were some random things at the buffet likewhole banana’s in this red jelly stuff, bleck no thank you, but their sushi wasawesome and so was the Crab Rangoon (my favorite). Here are some pictures fromour excursion to the Great Wall:

Look at all the food. They look stuffed...

Dear Maddie nice face...

Emma just loves her fortune! Too bad you can't see her little baby bump!

Ry looking sophisticated per usual. And also enjoying her fortune cookie...

Oh look Maddie finished all of her food.

We were laughing at the waiter who was running across the restaurant. Haha!

Austin making fun of someone and their man bag. Those two!

Maddie had a game in Homedale that night so we headed backthat way. Maddie played a great game, she’s an awesome ball player! B got intothe game and I quite enjoyed that. Reminds me of my dad and brothers! ThoseBlaylock’s up there, always causing some kind of ruckus! After the game we wentover to Austin and Kenzie’s and just chilled with them for a little bit, playedwith Liam, and showed B their cute house!

Sunday we headed back over to Boise to have dinner and gamewith my cousins and Aunt and Uncle. It’s always a good time when we play games,and this was no exception. It was a great time even if Dad and Hyrum were sick.We played Buzzerwizzer which is one of my family’s favorite and the everpopular catch phrase. We laughed a lot and were exhausted by the time to gohome. That night I started feeling kind of sick by the next morning I wassleeping on the bathroom floor. The flu had consumed me. It had been goingaround the family and I caught it, along with Mariah. Mom was sick a couple ofdays before so of course we had to depend on B to nurse us back to health. Hewent and got us soda and a movie. Bless his heart. That night I felt OK enoughto take B to Boys’ Better Burger and go the home basketball game, and it wasgood to see a lot of people from Parma! That night we went and played Xbox atAustin’s, but I started feeling really awful again. There was no way I couldeven think about work the next day anyway. So Tuesday we just spent time withmom and Mariah. We also made a trip to Parma Company so B could see it.

Overall it was a really fun weekend, and I loved being homeand seeing everyone. B and I even got to stop at Red Lobster on the way homefrom Parma for some crab legs and shrimp. I loved going home and spending somequality time with B! The next time I go home I will have a new nephew and that’sreally exciting!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

2012-01-12T14:09:00.001-07:00

I am so excited that it’s Thursday! We are going to Parmathis weekend I’m really excited to go, so of course this week has dragged;nevertheless, I still have some pretty awkward and awesome moments. I tried toeven get one on my camera but it’s really hard to see.

Awkward:

Yesterday while getting our daily lunch soda run Kristin andI experience the following awkward things at the Shaka’s Gas Station (and SaltLake Express drop off): an entire store of Amish people. OK so maybethey weren't Amish but they were legit, homemade clothes, the beards, the hats,the bonnets, EVERYTHING. I've captured a picture below of the gentlemen smokingtheir pipes. Yes I said pipe. Legit. This would have been an awesome story buthe awkward thing was there were Missionaries sitting right in the middle ofthem with these dazed looks on their faces. Then we when we were leaving wewere getting into my car and kid you not there was the strongest smell of weed.Pretty sure we could have gotten high just right there. Then we see this kidget into the car in which the smell really explodes, baby seat in the back don’tworry! He just looked at us and we hurried and got in the car.
Co-workers who talk about how they have no money left andthey are just living on savings. What do you say to them? Um I am sorry? I don’tknow just super awkward, don’t talk about money with other people who youbarely know.
Being told that I’m too dressed up for work, and I’m wearinga casual black skirt, tights, a sweater, and my Toms. How is that too dressy? I didn't even have heels on. I just replied, oh you know, I just like to looknice when I’m out in public. Get real…
The things people put on Facebook. It kills me. We don’tneed every detail of your divorce, all the things you are buying with yourborrowed money just to look cool, how you are so bored so someone please talkto me, or how you are just so much in love you have to remind us every update.I love Facebook and I update my status, but not every second and not about theintimate details of my life so I can sympathy or make others jealous. That’swhat Twitter is for and what famous people do! Oh also awkward when people hackinto others statuses, really, it’s not that funny, just log-out! I want to writea book of just status updates that are awkward and ridiculous, wouldn't that becool?!
People who talk in a baby voice when talking about theirchildren or something funny they did. I feel like after the story is over wehave to play Patty Cake or something.

Awesome:

Tomorrow I get to see my ENTIRE family, that’s delightful,and even better that B is coming too. I’m excited to see Maddie play basketballI haven’t seen her play since she was in Middle School. Oh PMS!
The little acts of service that I receive and the kissesthat are a sign of affection and love.
My bed, it rocks my world, and I wish I spent more time init!
Spending time with the Bishop and his wife on Sunday night! They are so funny and honestly they know B and I way too well!
Knowing your opinion is valued and it matters
Emails with Jenn at work (and messenger), we have somepretty funny / random discussions!
Foot rubs
The clearance racks, honestly this is the BEST time of theyear to find clothes! Everything is so cheap, and it has to go to make room forthe spring stuff coming in.
Price adjustments, ok seriously take in ALL of yourChristmas receipts and they will refund you the money you spent on those fullpriced items. For example, I spent $200 at Old Navy the day before Christmas. Itook my receipt in because everything I bought there is now on sale, bam $120back in my pocket. It’s like Christmas ALL over again. Booyah!
Singing in the car!
Watching The Help again, and still crying through most ofit. It’s such a good show, and the book is even better.
Seeing someone transform themselves into something better,it has been rough road, and it probably won’t get easier, but it’s awesome tosee the changes that they've made!
Studying the Book of Mormon in Sunday School and inInstitute!
Finding someone who makes me laugh really hard almost everyday of my life, and who laughs at me too!

Wow, I didn't realize what an eventful week I've had. Pretty much awesome!

Instagram!

2012-01-11T10:30:00.000-07:00

I love my iPhone. I love even more the quality of pictures that come from it, and even more than that I love the Instagram App. Oh my word it's my favorite. It become this little mini photoshop and it's so easy to use. Enjoy some of my pictures from Instagram!

This picture is almost a year old, isn't that crazy? It's also one of my favorites!

After the family kickball game!

Another favorite!

My mom and me!

This picture was taken last night, I want this dog so bad, isn't she just the cutest thing EVER?

My sisters!

My favorite picture of Ry and me!

Space Mountain!

Holiday party!

I love this one, on the beach at California!

Ugh cutest boy ever!

My love and I on Temple Square!

I have found a couple websites in which you can print your Instagram pictures into strips or just print them in general. That's my goal, because these pictures are freaking amazing! Thank you iPhone, and Instagram!

Little Moments

2012-01-10T11:28:00.000-07:00

Don’t you just love those little moments when you catchsomeone doing something for you but they don’t know you’re watching? Thoselittle moments are the best. Those are when you see a person’s true character.Some people serve because the know people are watching, other’s serve because theywant to, because they love you. People serve in different ways, it may bebuying dinner or writing a kind note. It might be that they know you likesomething a certain way so they make sure it gets done that way. I find the moreyou love that person the more you want to serve them, in whatever capacity itmight be. It’s also easy to not serve the ones you love because well, you justalways expect them to be around, and to love you unconditionally no matterwhat. Thank you to those who serve me, even if in little ways. My heart is sofull, last night especially, and really it was the little things that matteredthe most… making sure I’m comfortable, plugging my phone in, and kisses on theforehead.

It might have been this awful nightmare I had last nightthat made me wide awake at four in the morning, to come to the thoughts I’vementioned. When I left B’s house I was so happy, and so I contemplated callingB because I just wanted to make sure he was OK. I calmed myself down andflipped on my TV. It was horrible, I couldn’t make that feeling of hopelessnessgo away; everything that I love was taken away from me. I think I get caught upin the materialistic things of the world that I forget those I love are whatmake me happy. So I prayed. I just wanted comfort that it wasn’t real, everyonewas OK, and that in a couple of hours we would all awake and continue on withour routines. So I just tried to go back to sleep, think happy thoughts, funnymoments, sing some random songs, and tell myself it wasn’t real. Thank goodnessmorning came, and so I had something to occupy my mind.

I think dreams are interesting. This dream scared the CRAP outof me, but also it made me think on my way to work how blessed I am to have thepeople I do in my life. How they serve me, and how they love me too. I am trulyone lucky and blessed girl!

Eek!

2012-01-09T12:23:00.000-07:00

This is why I will never EVER bungee jump:

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Honestly I about died when I saw this clip this morning. Oh my goodness! I had a great weekend. I could totally get used to thislife! Friday we went to the Blanchard’s again because B’s cousin is leaving forWashington DC for an internship and possibly job. We played games and you knowacted like fools per usual. It’s hard for me to be super lively on Friday’s becauseI worked all day and then stay up really late but I persevered! It was actuallya lot of fun. After the party we went to B’s house and watched One Tree Hill.That show is crack… it’s so addicting! I work so I can’t watch every episode,but it’s nuts! We stayed up WAY too late watching that show. Good thing I couldsleep in the next day. I made biscuits and gravy the next afternoon and then wewent shopping. I love shopping with B because he’s so funny and we love topeople watch, honestly people what are you wearing? That night we had dinner with some of B's friends, it was good, and we actually played a version of Progressive Rummy... YES! Sunday was great, church is awesome later sometimes so I can sleep in, and then we watched the CES Fireside because we are righteous like that (HA), went to a fondue party (which was delish), and then we spent the rest of the night at our Bishop's house. B and I love going over there, they are just so funny and like our 2nd parents in a way. We enjoy laughing and catching up with them, plus they always have great advice for us! This week is going to be super busy with a lot of things going on! I hope it goes fast because this next weekend B and I are going to Parma to watch Maddie play some basketball! It should be a lot of fun!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

2012-01-05T14:50:00.001-07:00

Sorry it’s been absent for a little while, but I’m back withmy awkward and awesome moments of the last few weeks. Honestly, I’m having hardtime with some awkward moments, just because I haven’t been out in public becauseI’ve been with family and recovering from a stressful month. It takes a littlewhile for me to recover from December! Anyway, here it is:

Awkward:

Why do people insist on talking to B and I allthe time in the store, it must be him, anyway it is just awkward when you tellus about your day while waiting to check out and how crappy your life is…
The mean people at Panda Express at the BoiseMall… listen I’m sorry you have to serve rice but no need to snap at me when Iask you a question about your chicken… jesh!
Finding out you’re not invited to something thateveryone else is…
Getting a present from someone and you totallydidn’t get them anything… you just look at them and say thanks. Ok then what?Walk away quickly?
The million awkward questions I get whenever Icome home and go to my home ward. Even more awkward for me is when people come andtalk to me and I have NO idea who they are but they know my ENTIRE life story.
Knowing that someone is upset but they don’twant to talk about, so you just sit there in silence. Maybe that’s why it’scalled awkward silence?
Getting flipped off after winning a card game… uhhhh….It’s sort of funny now I guess… HAHA!
Trying to walk in my high heels that are toobig, actually it was hilariously awkward!
Paying too much attention to B that I run into atruck… that was funny too!
A co-worker's outfit...leggings are NOT pants!

Awesome:

All the amazing Christmas gifts I received. Ilove when people take the time to really think about what would make me happy,or pay attention to things I say I want!
A really good car stereo. I mean there is no otherway to experience music unless you have the full effect of speakers and somereally good bass.
New sheets!
Murder… in the dark…
Last night when I was so incredibly tired and Ihadn’t sat down since being home that B pulled me on the couch and made mewatch TV, that was pretty awesome.
Having a surprise lunch delivered OK so being surprised in general.
Hair cuts
Feeling accepted
When other people have drama, ok so it justmakes me feel a little bit more normal!
Deciding to go home next weekend because it willbe an extra-long weekend for everybody. I’m excited to see Maddie play somebasketball!
Long chats with my mom and sisters (andsister-in-law). Being able to go to my family for advice.
Hyrum is having the first girl of the family,hooray!
B who fell asleep at the nail salon while I wasgetting my nails done, it was so adorable. The little Vietnamese ladies justthought he was the cutest thing all passed out on the chairs. HA!
Finding someone who will be lazy with me all dayand it still can be the best time.
Jersey Shore starts tonight! Yeah Buddy!
Just call us the best detectives ever… the truthalways comes out…
New year, with new perspectives and new goals

Well that’s all for now I guess. One more day closer to theweekend! I better get it planned out, haha!

New Year's Festivities

2012-01-03T10:08:00.000-07:00

I had a great New Years! It’s crazy to think that a year agoI “unofficially” met B. I thought a LOT about that on Saturday night when I waspartying with him and his awesome family. I guess it’s more like isn’t it crazyhow life turns out? I don’t believe in coincidences, more like things happenfor a reason, so that’s why on Sunday when I was reflecting on my goals for thenew year and what has happened in 2011 I was just really overwhelmed with howblessed I really am. Granted I had my fair share of trials or whatever but I amso happy at the same time. I try every year to make new resolutions, andlooking back I really didn’t keep any of them. That’s ok though because I madegoals throughout the year and some I actually did accomplish, hooray! Anyway, Bmade a really good goal and I’m going to steal his which was recognizing thegood progress that I make and be positive about it. 2012 is the year of somebig changes and one of them being a positive! Anyway, just some more thoughts Ihad about the new year and what have you. Can you believe I didn’t take one picturethis weekend? What the? Luckily B’s cousin did with his phone.

Here we all are! Happy New Year!

We started the weekend out at B’s mom’s house for somedinner and games. I had worked all day so I was pretty tired. We left a littleearly and decided to hit up some Fat Catz. Which included some miniature golfin which we played normal the first round and the 2^nd round was likePIG style. You know the basketball game. It was pretty funny, and we both werepretty creative. B always is making me laugh, probably why I love him so much.Next we decided to just hit up some Sherlock Holmes. It was really good, Iliked it!

Saturday was good. B had to help his cousin Dallin move so Iwent and got a haircut that was much needed. Even if just a trim it just alwaysmakes you feel so much better about life! I also got a mani/pedi… helloamazing! We spent the evening playing games at the Blanchard’s. They are prettymuch B’s 2^nd mom and dad and siblings. He grew up next to them andthey are all so silly when they get together. It actually reminds me a lot ofmy family which makes me laugh. We played some games and it was good for me becauseit was a get to know you game in a sense. I love how happy B is when he’saround them. He truly is just himself, and doesn’t worry about anything when he’swith them. I love how competitive everyone was while playing that’s totally mystyle! I was mostly excited for the infamous Murder in the Dark game that Bcontinually tells me about. It’s hardcore. It has to be PITCH black and thereis a lot of muffled laughing, hitting of walls, groping and such nonsense. Iwas even the murderer once and I was discovered pretty quickly because I’m an “amateur”…We stopped a minute before the New Year…

Sunday and Monday were pretty chill. Which is exactly what Ineeded, after a December of crazy nonstop running I just think I couldn’t takeit anymore, B didn’t mind we just watched movies and football. Ordered Pizzaeven, which is awesome! It’s crazy that it was pretty much an amazing weekendand I didn’t do a whole lot of exciting things. Totally acceptable!

On a random note, we don’t have ANY snow. So incredibly oddfor this artic tundra of Eastern Idaho. I sort of miss it in the sense that Iwant to go snowmobiling some more and sledding! I also want to take a sleighride while it is snowing, I know totally a girl thing, but my last sleigh ridewas more than memorable.

It’s back to the grind today, no break until February… ohand so it begins! Happy New Year!!

My 2011

2011-12-31T11:00:00.000-07:00

I was reading my last post of there year here. It’s awesome to look back at the goals I madeand see the many different changes I made… so to keep with my tradition I’mgoing to fill this out but 2011 style! Honestly I didn’t keep a lot of my goalsI’m a tad pathetic, but a lot of GREAT things happened to me so I’m notcomplaining. Happy New Year, may 2012 be totally fantastic!

1 . What did you do in 2011that you've never done before?
I went to Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion’s National Park, and New Mexico.Rode on the smallest plane I think you can commercially fly on. Fell in love,went to a BSU Football game, had a surprise party, saw Wicked, rode the X2 atSix Flags Magic Mountain, saw the amazing fireworks in Idaho Falls, lived bymyself, and I’m sure a ton of new things I can’t really remember!
2. Did you keep your NewYear's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
This is sad… but no. Ok maybe one but it was joking, like oh Savanna maybe in2011 you’ll actually go on a date… and well lucky me! But I didn’t even come closeto reading 52 books, saving my money, becoming a teacher, OR going on cruise(even though I did vacation!)
3. Did anyone close to yougive birth?
I had a cousin that did, BUT both of my sister-in-laws are pregnant. That’svery exciting!
4. Did anyone close to youdie?
Close to me personally? No. To others yes.
5. What countries did youvisit?
Do you consider California a different country? If so then yes! Along with mostof the western states!
6. What would you like tohave in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?
Faith, well more like having faith that God knows what he’s doing with my lifeand I have to trust Him.
7. What date from 2011 willremain etched in your memory and why?
I don’t have specific dates really. My birthday was awesome, December 2 – a pinkypromise was made, and June 24^th that’s when Emma joined our family officially.
8. What was your biggestachievement of the year?
Patience, and trusting myself enough to know what I need and want. Oh andsticking with that B kid!
9. What was your biggestfailure?
Letting some friendships suffer, not being 100% committed to everything in mylife.
10. Did you suffer illness orinjury?
I’m still recovering from 2010 but I am feeling better. Hooray!
11. What was the best thingyou bought?
2011 was the year I bought my very first Coach Bag, my iPhone, and tickets toWicked!
12. Whose behavior meritedcelebration?
My brother Hyrum, I wish I was more like him. Jenn because she’s a straightshooter but still loves me. B because well he just makes me laugh and loveseveryone.
13. Whose behavior made youappalled and depressed?
Boys can make you feel funny things I’m sure of it! I had my fair share ofroommate and friend drama too!
14. Where did most of yourmoney go?
Travel expenses, Bills, and always clothes… And eating out…
15. What did you get really,really, REALLY excited about?
Hyrum’s Wedding, Seattle, California, New Mexico, and seeing B for the firsttime after 3 months!
16. What song will alwaysremind you of 2011?
Super Bass – Nicki Minaj, Africa – Toto (and all of its forms), and anythingJustin Bieber!
17. Compared to this timelast year, are you:
Happier? – Yes
Thinner? – Yes
Richer? - No
18. What do you wish you'ddone more of?
Easy… Sleep. I rarely did that in 2011.
19. What do you wish you'ddone less of?
Spending (always), and worrying
20. How did you spendChristmas?
With my family of course, we missed Hyrum and Emma!
21. How will you spend NewYear's Eve?
With B and his extended family. I’m quite excited for this epic game of Murderin Dark I keep hearing about!
22. Did you fall in love in2011?
Yes I did. It’s been a crazy, emotional, but extremely fun road. I’m superexcited for 2012!
23. What was your favorite TVprogram?
The Sing-off, Modern Family, Jersey Shore, American Idol, BSU Football, and theX Factor
24. Do you hate anyone nowthat you didn't hate this time last year?
Hate is such an ugly word, I don't hate anybody! There are people that I havedrifted apart from, or have chosen to not be a part of my life. I guess that’sjust how life is sometimes.
25. What was the best bookyou read in 2011?
The last book in the Vampire Academy series was awesome, I also read MockingJay, and I’ll count Harry Potter 7…
26. What was your biggestmusical discovery?
I feel in love with hip hop music all over again thanks to B’s amazing carstereo… and my iPhone and iTunes.
27. What did you want andget?
If you look at last year’s post I put Boyfriend for the below question. Funnyright? So I guess that’s my answer for this year!
28. What did you want and NOTget?
To get out of debt
29. What was your favoritefilm of the year?
The Help was phenomenal and I also loved Harry Potter
30. What did you do on yourbirthday, and how old did you turn?
My fantastic friends threw me a surprise party and I loved every second of it.I turned 27 wow only 3 more years!
31. What one thing would havemade your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Having my own house, and making more money. HA!
32. How would you describeyour personal fashion concept in 2011?
I allowed myself to dress up more, and not put my lounge clothes as soon as Icame home. Having a social life also helps in that aspect.
33. What kept you sane?
God, Prayer, Family, telephone calls, text messages, and Skype
34. What celebrity did youfancy the most?
Fancy? Zac Efron hands down, and I love the Biebs. I discovered Jimmer thisyear too!
35. What news story stirredyou the most?
Casey Anthony. I’ll never know how she got away with it.
36. Who did you miss?
My family, I always miss them and Jenn. I missed B a LOT in the summer when helived in Texas and Utah.
37. Who was the best newperson you met?
I had a LOT of fun with a LOT of amazing people this year, of course B he’snumber one I knew who he was before but of course we started our friendship onNew Years Eve 2010 and I haven’t had a dull day since!
38. Tell us a valuable lifelesson you learned in 2011:
Patience really is a virtue, don’t judge a person until you’ve walked a mile intheir shoes, and communication is the only way to be happy!
39. Favorite play you saw:
Hands down WICKED! I loved every second of it!
40. What is your goal for2012?
I am tearing up all my credit cards so I can get out of debt, go on a cruise,read my scriptures every day, get to bed at a decent hour, focus on my longterm dreams, be happy, and enjoy life with those I love…. Oh and lose moreweight of course!

Now that I look back on 2011 I did so many fun things. I went on a lot of vacations and spent most of my time laughing. Even though I had an emotional year I wouldn't trade any of it. I've learned so much about myself, and who I want to be. I'm so blessed and I'm so excited for this next year and what it will bring!

Lunch Surprise

2011-12-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

Not to be one of those girls who always gushes about howperfect their boyfriend is or anything because well I’m not like that. Myrelationship isn’t perfect; I don’t think a real relationship is. It can’t be.To say I have a unique situation is fair, and we are older so we’ve had ourfair share of life experiences to bring into this fantastic B & S thing we’vegot going on. Last night was no exception. It’s just one of those times whereyou say something stupid without thinking or maybe you should have said it alittle different and well it just ruins everything. Then it tail spins intobigger issues and well you leave thinking I should have totally just kept thatto myself, but on the other hand it had to come out sometime. Anyway, I’mblabbing, because mostly well it’s crazy how a little act of kindness can makeeverything seem better, or maybe it’s just my love language of gift giving andservice that comes out. Either way, look at what my lovely did for me today:

I know it doesn’t seem like a lot, oh lunch from Jimmy John’s…but actually it made me burst into tears. I’m a girl (that’s B’s excuse when Icomplain about certain things, he’s always like oh you are such a girl), and Iwas still kinda upset from last night, and you know my thoughts had only gone to the worst. Plus well, work is extreme slow, but I’m here by myself so I wasn’tgoing to get a lunch, and I just mentioned it to him. Next thing I know there’sJimmy John’s with lunch, and my name on it. I’m sure the Jimmy John’s deliveryman thought I was weird because I’m sure he’s never seen a sandwich makessomeone cry before, then when he pulled out the Diet Coke I really startedtearing up. Honestly though it was one of the nicest things he could have donefor me today short of showing up himself! He really knows how to knock me offmy feet sometimes…

Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T15:06:00.001-07:00

There's a lot I have to catch up since I've been on my break. So try and keep up! I'll start with my adventures before Christmas and then well hopefully I can get caught up to present day!

Thursday was my work Christmas Party. This year I had exceptionally good looking date, and he was the life of the party per usual. He always has everyone cracking up. I'm so glad he got to come, mostly because now he can put a face to the names I talk about often. Thanks for coming with me B, and he even got some Alaskan King Crab. Delish!

Friday after B helped me pack up and clean the house (bless him for that really, he's a saint), I headed home. Mom met me at the mall, and seriously that place was NUTS! The traffic was unbelievable I swear I parked an hour away. It was good to just finish up though and chill with my mom, she's one of my most favorite people to shop with! I didn't get home until late that night so I didn't get to see Austin, Kenz, or Liam until the next day. That night we did some last minute shopping (yeah Mariah way to wait), and then it was time for some Christmas dinner. It was ham and funeral potatoes and just chill. I like that just my family and good food!

So yummy, my mom decorates it so pretty!

Maddie is totally ready to eat!

Pretty sure my sisters are gorgeous. Honestly I love them, and they are so funny.

Ry and I decided to do our hair curly the next day so we both put it up for Christmas Eve!

After dinner my mom brought out the PJ fairy and we got to put them all on. She made everyone's PJ's except Maddie's. They are awesome. So comfy too. Bless her heart she was sewing them right up until the festivities began. She's crazy! Maddie and Mariah really loved theirs!

Liam wanted a ride on the Zebra of course!

OK this kid is adorable. And he's so funny. I caught him telling me no (his new favorite word, hello terrible two's)!

We had a white elephant gift exchange but the gifts had to be something from around the house. It was so funny. Kenz got this doll head my mom has had forever, of course Maddie got Dad's (something from Parma Company), and I got gopher poison. We laughed a lot. Then we read some stories and of course the Christmas story.

Ready for Santa!

We got up and went to church at 9 which wasn't that big of a deal since Mom always makes us get up early on Christmas anyway. It has to be dark outside when we open presents! Since it wasn't this year we had to put a blanket over the door. So funny!!

Here is my pile! I got a lot of clothes, shoes and a good stash!

This was my present from B! I love love love them! Houndstooth Toms. He's so sneaky...

Here we are opening presents. Can you see Liam?

I had a great Christmas. It was so good to be home once again. We missed Hyrum and Emma. Hopefully next year we can all be together! We will have two new grand kids too! I love my family and the happiness they bring to me. I can't believe Christmas is over... I'm excited for New Years though, I love to party!

Humblebrag

2011-12-22T10:13:00.001-07:00

I love the end of the year, all these great "lists" come out. You know the ones where it's like oh the Top Celebrities of 2011, or Best Movie posters, or my personal favorite "Word of the Year". The debate is among Occupy or Humblebrag. Since I think the "Occupy" movement is totally dumb, I vote for Humblebrag. Pretty sure that this Twitter feed and articles about said phenomenon are funny. I think I love it mostly because celebrities think they are soooo cool. Rappers are the WORST! Don't get me wrong, I'm a celebrity junkie, but it's good to see them get made fun of. Yes we know that you have a private jet, and we know that you email Kanye West regularly, no need to pretend that it's "weird" or "unbelievable". That's like me saying "Got called the most beautiful women ever alive by 100 different people today #somepeopleneedglasses"… See I sound ridiculous! Here is what urbandictionary.com says:

Humble Brag
	A form self-promotion where the promoter thinks he is, almost subliminally, bragging about himself in the context of a humble statement or complaint. Everyone listening thinks he is an idiot. Example - I am exhausted from my two week vacation to Hawaii. I need a vacation… or The referee tripped over my feet last night AT THE LAKERS GAME, man I should have worn tennis shoes.

That's probably why I find these articles hilarious. Honestly just brag about it, out with it already, you're beautiful, rich, and yes we all want to covet your amazing life. Facebook is famous for it too, no worries. Now that I'm totally conscious of it, I find them everywhere, I'm sure even I have had my fair share. In fact the other day I saw one and bust up laughing so hard, not to mention her status has like 20 likes, oh laws!
Here are the famous Humblebraggers I've been talking about. Just a warning there is a little language in some of these articles; nevertheless, it's funny. If you are on Twitter you should totally follow @humblebrag too… just for kicks and giggles!
Top Humblebrag of November

Humblebrag Hall of Fame

Totes McGote, the Famous Humblebragger
Today is my last day of work before Christmas! I'm so ready for my vacation! On that I will leave you with my own Humblebrag for the holiday season:
I just don't know what to do with all these gifts I just don't have room in my car to fit them all #need an SUV…

Almost There…

2011-12-21T16:26:00.001-07:00

Phew it's over, my work events for December that is. This month has got to be the craziest out of all of them. We are booked solid with events, Christmas shopping, and sending out Christmas cards. I'm always exhausted by quitting time. It's like my body and brain know that I'm going to have a vacation soon because they are seriously worn out. I'm so exhausted when my alarm goes off in the morning, it's like I'm ready for bed before even getting out of it. So here's the question I always pose to myself, how can I balance everything out without feeling overwhelmed and underappreciated? Christmas isn't about that at all, but that seems like all I have been feeling lately. I feel so discouraged like I don't have enough time to dedicate to everything or everyone. That's why last night was so great, I went and yelled and cheered on B's cousin at a basketball game. What a great outlet for getting out frustrations. We yelled at the referees for their horrible calls, jumped up and down when she made a winning shot, and laughed really hard at Madison's lesbian coach. Then we rocked out in the car to Backstreet Boys (B's so good about letting me be the DJ), it was just what I needed. Then we went and had ice cream and watched Columbiana. You know that movie is all about violence, HA, it was great. I'm sure if I knew how to play Call of Duty I would have played with B last night too. It helps that they let me laugh a lot.

Don't worry I'm still stressed out a little because I'm not done Christmas shopping, and I need to still pack and organize my life and room, and well try to still finish up last minute things at work. Isn't it funny how we wait all year for Christmas, and then it's here and quite frankly it is a whirlwind of tasks and to do lists. Life is funny that way.

Funny thing is today is the Winter Solstice. Which means the days officially begin to stay lighter longer. Booyah.

Magical Lights!

2011-12-19T15:41:00.001-07:00

This weekend was super fun! I thoroughly enjoyed myself even though I am still exhausted from all the shopping and walking I did this weekend. Friday B and I went to see Sherlock Holmes but it was sold out by the time we got there. BOO! So we went to see New Year's Eve instead. It was actually pretty good. Oh Zac Efron was definitely good looking!
Saturday we got up super early and headed out to SLC for the day. We got there around 10 so I showed B around. Not like I am a pro or anything but he hadn't ever ridden the Trax, so that was super fun. We saw a man walking in his socks carrying his shoes, hello it's cold outside! There were a TON of weddings that day too! Then we were off on a marathon shopping spree at Gateway Mall. It's funny when you are shopping for someone else you always find something for you. I exercised great control by not buying anything for myself (ok except at Old Navy, oh well). We went into a jewelry store where B tried on a $15,000 watch and I got to try on a $60,000 3-karat yellow diamond (yeah I can't even imagine how big Kim K's was, because that thing was HUGE). We had to much fun, mostly people watching. The things people wear these days, I mean honestly! Also, it always blows my mind when people wear 6-inch stilettos to shop. HELLO? B's sister Lakesha met up with us for some lunch at California Pizza Kitchen. We had a lot of fun, and then decided to shop some more. That B he was a trooper the whole day, even carried my bags, impressive I know! We laughed a lot, and that was probably the best part.

B sitting in his chair, I think it fits him well!

I definitely look good too!

In front of the tree!

Here we are at lunch!

We met up with Dani and Anthony and headed back to Temple Square to see the lights. It was so beautiful. I love seeing them. We had a lot of fun, and I love the spirit that is on Temple Square especially at Christmas time. We took a lot of fun pictures, you know me, I have to document my life. B is such a good sport, and secretly I think he loves taking pictures too, because he'll be like oh let's take a picture here. Love that!

Lakesha looking super cute riding the Trax. Love the gloves!

Dani and Anthony!

I totally love this picture, even if we were semi in the road!

B got on one knee an the people walking past were like Oh MY GOSH he's proposing, then Lakesha yells "Don't worry he's my brother".... FUNNY!

Oh hey!

My new favorite picture of us, I just think it's so darling, and well look at the scenery!

Look I got my picture with the Taylor's I am special. I hadn't been up to see this in a long time! Loved it!

Ok so we decided to do our Precious Moments picture because we are also making fun of those statues. Well this is the end product, but below you will see I about fell in the fountain. Scary.

HAHA!

After Temple Square we headed back home and made a stop at Lava Hot Springs. That felt so good after a whole day of being on your feet. I want to take my family there, I think they would love it!
I can't believe it's less than a week until Christmas and sadly I'm still not done shopping… WHAT??! I know, and I'm a little upset my family is doing the annual dinner without me… just saying that it's a little unfair. I guess that's what happens when you grow up and have a real job. I guess I'll have to make B take me out to dinner. Ha!

FriDay!

2011-12-16T16:09:00.000-07:00

I'm excited for this weekend, for starters B is finally done with school for a couple weeks. That also sucks because he can play while I still have to work. My vacation consists of a whole 3 days. Oh the working life. This weekend we are planning some movie time tonight and then we are headed Utah to see the lights on Temple Square, do some shopping, and try to see friends and family. I know that I'll be exhausted, I can already tell. I really feel like it isn't Christmas yet, which is so weird, so I'm hoping the lights and the shopping will make me feel better. I just love the way it feels on Temple Square at Christmas, even if it usually is FREEZING! Like I said, Christmas around here at work is CRAZY, see just look at my office!

Looks like the Elf's workshop. Packages to be sent and shipped. Downstairs is even crazier. I actually don't mind it, it's fun in a way to send gifts, after all I LOVE Christmas!
It's hard to believe that I'm not even half way done with present buying. That's bad I know, but hey, that's how I'm rolling this year, plus I've got a new sister in law to pay for!
Have a great weekend, I'm sure I'll have a TON of pictures to share!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-12-15T11:58:00.001-07:00

I can't believe its Thursday already. Time needs to slow down JUST a little. I mean there's only 10 days left until Christmas and I am only half way done. That's scary. Here is my awkward and awesomeness for the week!

Awkward:

Seeing an "ex" in public, with your significant other… oh haha…
Not prepping myself for a weekend with no indoor plumbing. I'm so grateful for that modern invention.
Oh you know when you feel like you have a 2^nd mother. Hello I'm 27 I can make my own choices, no need to boss me around.
It has started, ice season, I had an excuse yesterday though, I had heels on!
You know that moment when someone has the most awful outfit on that you feel awkward for them? Who EVER said that cape, or bright red snow boots were acceptable?
Seeing or listening to other couples fight. It's just awkward. I also find it awkward when a parent disciplines a child in front of you. Not like I won't do the same but still… HA!
I have lived in Rexburg for 10 years. And for those 10 years I have shopped at Broulims. Well they've expanded their store and I can't find ANYTHING. It's so awkward seeing the same people over and over again because I can't find the DANG olives!
A sacrament meeting talk in which I felt like I was being yelled at… people just stand up there and speak no need for dramatics.
Couples at church, OK yes I know I hold my boyfriend's hand, and he'll put his arm around me, but there's no need to be laying your head on their lap or laying all over them as if you've been sitting for 700 hours. This is church, just sit and listen, not lay down in the pew.

Awesome:

My cabin and snowmobiling adventure in Island Park.
Giving Christmas early to B, and him liking every gift!
Delivering gifts to those who wouldn't have a Christmas otherwise. It really puts my stresses to a minimal compared to what they go through.
This new Facebook timeline, this is a good change this time. I was just looking back at how I used Facebook back in the day. Nerd alert!
Prayers, and the health of my loved ones, thanks to modern medicine.
Pictures. I just love them. I love how I can document my life!
Knowing someone that can pretty much finish my sentences at this point… I love it.
My awesome Bishop and his wife. Seriously they are like my 2^nd parents. They are so funny, and cool.
Several times this week I had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming. That's a lovely feeling!
My sister Mariah, she's just so funny, and I'm really going to miss her being up here this winter. It will be the first time I won't have a sibling up here since moving!
Singing at the top of your lungs… in the car…
I love love…

First Winter Activity!

2011-12-13T12:07:00.001-07:00

It is December which means that life in general is CRAZY. That's ok, I would rather it be that way. Especially because right now at work we are doing my favorite thing all year, Christmas for Families. We adopt several families and give them a Christmas. It's really an awesome expierence. Anyway, that's what I've been doing the past several days. As far as my life goes, it's fantastic. I love this boy named Brycen. We spent the weekend with one of his best friends in Island Park at his family's cabin. I was not prepared for the pipes to be frozen so no running water. It felt like camping that's for sure. Luckily B was kind enough to drive me to lodge when nature came calling.
We arrived Friday night, late, after a rough day at work. It was all good though, because I felt like I was getting away from it all. There were two other couples there and their kids. You have to snowmobile into the cabin so getting on a sled that late at night with my work clothes was freezing! It was fun though! We just chilled that night, and played Rockband, which I haven't played in forever! I even had time to read some of my book. Which is a great accomplishment these days!

I about DIED when I saw this painting of a Wiener Dog... named Zak of course.

It's the Jersey Shore phone... I should have stolen this. I wanted it so bad!

This was the stone over the mantle. As you can see, B is pointing to were we currently were at!

The next morning B and I sort of corralled the children in the main room and babysat them while everyone else got breakfast ready. Then it was time to go! B and I took a sled out and found this awesome part along the river. It was so pretty, the mountains in the winter are so magical. I'm sure we'll visit there again in the summer and it's a great little swimming hole too! The water was so clear, and the snow was so pretty. I don't know why I get so nervous around water in the winter, it's so funny. I'm a good swimmer. It just must be all those Rescue 911 shows I watched and the people died of hypothermia because of the cold water. I then got to drive it and I'm not as good as B but I'm learning, just takes practice!

The river, isn't it magical?

B, you sure are good lookin'!

B and I. We had a lot of fun!

Checking for fish? Or just look like he knows what he's doing?! HA!

The awesome river!

We rode around and then came back for lunch, and then waited our turn. When we went out again, we went all over the place. It was so much fun. B and I had a great time, and it actually wasn't even that cold. We were on B's brothers sled, and that thing can go super fast. So of course there were a couple times were I was holding on for dear life, still fun though! I can't wait until we can go again, that's one thing that's fun about the winter up here!
Here are some pictures of our adventures!

B on the sled. I love this picture!

Getting ready to sled. My jacket is ginormous on me!

Eating Orange Leaf, who knows what is in that bowl?

Mine is cohesive, with chocolate and more chocolate...

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-12-08T16:26:00.001-07:00

I have had a crazy week. A lot of awesome moments and scary moments, and yes awkward moments… so without further ado…
AWKWARD:

Ok so mostly I have a story. B and I were in the Dollar Store trying to find some handouts for Relief Society. Just so happens this "cougar" decided to interrupt our conversation. Asking if she can help us find something, (mind you she doesn't work there) and I am polite to her, but I say that I'm OK. I don't know what it is about B, but anybody will just talk to him, and act like they are best friends. So she proceeds to show us this lipgloss she's picked up… and it's like a nude color. This is how the conversation went:
Lady –"Look at this lip gloss, looks like a poop color. I don't need poop on my lips, my breath smells bad enough…"
B – "Oh yeah? (insert awkward laugh)"
Lady – "Here I'm going to put it on, what does it look like"
Me – "Yup it's clear alright. Brycen lets go to Wal-mart"
Lady – " Oh my gosh you have to smell this…" She then proceeded to shove her finger right up to B's nose. So of course he smelled it and then she made me smell it, and then I was like oh ENOUGH. We ran out of there as fast as we could, pretty sure she was still trying to talk to us when we left the store laughing hysterically.

The incident in the work parking lot this morning in which we thought it was a homeless man living in his car. Come to find out he's just an older brother providing transportation. Eeks…
The way you feel after someone tells you, that you are in fact doing something wrong.
The way you feel when you find out someone you love is talking behind your back.
Testimony meeting in a Singles Ward… This month we had someone quote Elf, and mention the House of Wax. Yeah awkward.
Facial hair that looks well awkward. Eww just get that Chia Pet off of your face.
Pretending to be OK

AWESOME:

Pinky Promises. People those things are legit.
Crying in the bath after a long hard day… I will add crying in the shower too. I don't know why, it's just the best place to do it.
Catching up with old friends.
Being surprised, I love being surprised.
Finding the perfect Christmas present.
The way I looked this morning when I woke up. Hair is every direction, blood shot and puffy eyes, and a frog in my throat. It was so awesome (ok so I'm being sarcastic here).
Rocking a totally cute outfit like 3 days in row. Booyah.
Finally getting my work Christmas cards sent out. What a relief.
A good foot rub after working in heels all day.
My garage, Pearl loves her new home.
Cuddling on the couch.
An amazing chat at Dairy Queen...
Having an awesome spiritual experience in answer to my prayers.

My Yellow Brick Road

2011-12-05T13:48:00.001-07:00

Today and this weekend I have been thinking A LOT about the path my life has taken. How the Lord has directed me in certain things and let learn things along the way. There are so many times I would just be like "this isn't funny anymore" or "what else do you want from me", but you know you continue to persevere and hope you're doing what's right.
Do you ever wonder what would have happened if Dorothy had chosen the red bricked path instead of the yellow one? Do you think she still would have ended up at the Wizard? I think that every time I watch that movie, go ahead and watch it, you'll see there are two different colored paths. Naturally she took the yellow brick one, because well she one didn't know where to go in the first place and two because everyone was telling her to follow the yellow brick road. All during her journeys and trials she never strayed from the yellow brick road, except one time, in the poppy field, and look what happened to her then. I guess what I'm thinking about is my own yellow brick road… I know where I'm supposed to go, and I've been told to follow it, but will I end up at the Wizard who will help me get to Kansas? I think that's where my red slippers come in; they always seemed to keep Dorothy on track. So having faith that my "slippers" will keep me on track I most certain, oh and have a scarecrow, tin man, lion, and Toto to help me to, I don't want to end up in the poppy field. So looking back down the path its funny how things just turn out in the end. That I wasn't convinced I was on the right path, but actually I was the whole time!

That's where the faith comes, if you know you are supposed to follow the yellow brick road, well then, FOLLOW IT, and of course don't doubt it. Dorothy never once doubted the Good Witch or the Munchkins. She knew they would lead her to happiness. So have faith, then act upon it. Bring it on Wicked Witch, I am on the right path!
Decisions are going to be made, and doubt will come, fear will try to push me away, but I know that if I follow the yellow brick road, my life will be easier.
I'm off to see the Wizard, and if you want you can follow me, I'll most likely be the one with dog, friends, and those awesome slippers!

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-12-01T10:37:00.001-07:00

It's been a couple weeks since I've compiled my awkward and awesome moments. Don't worry, I have some good ones!
AWKWARD:

I don't know if it's just me, but when someone cuts in line (no matter if Black Friday or a line at Subway) I just want to yell "BACK OF THE LINE BUDDY". Didn't you go to elementary? The only kind of cutting I allow is behind me. So when Mom and I were waiting in line to go into Target on Black Friday there was this lady begging people to let her cut so she could go to the bathroom, and I quote "I have to pee so bad and the police won't even let me in, please let me just go and relieve myself"… OK 1. If you've been standing here this long you could have found another bathroom by now, 2. Bed, Bath, and Beyond is right there and there's not a SOUL in there, and they have bathroom. Seriously lady you are LYING!!
Arty at the Subway in Burley. He LOVED his job, and he made sure Mariah and I knew it. Don't worry I made up a song for him via the T-Pain App, I try to post it somewhere. He especially was excited when Mariah chose a cookie over chips. He made us laugh… but in an uncomfortable way. HAHA!
Old women at JoAnn's during Black Friday. Seriously they are hoarders of all things flannel. They are also vicious. They have to stock up on their baby quilts for the year I guess. They don't have agile skills like me though, I beat them all to get a number to get my material cut!
Boys who are awkwardly cuddle or hold hands. OK so a HUGE pet peeve of mine is when a couple is holding hands and the girl is in front. Not natural, and the boy looks totally awkward. There are just some boys though that make you feel uncomfortable when they flirt (shudder).
When someone comments on a status that has nothing to do with the previous conversation or actually doesn't make sense. Totally obvious you were Facebook stalking me…
My password to pretty much everything is pretty funny, and when I have to give it to someone their face is like uhh ok. Hello I made that password up in high school OK!
People who quote themselves on Facebook. Example: "Be who you are and love it" – Savanna J Blaylock. Isn't that totally weird? You are updating your own status, we know who you are, no need to be quotes around what you say, like hopefully it'll end up on Pinterest or something.
The things people ask me on Sunday in my home ward. "Have you thought about a mission?", "Saw you were dating someone, when are you getting married?", "So and so was in town this weekend we should have had a get together… (yeah because I loathed her in High School why would I want to hang out with her?)"… people honestly thanks for your concern but a simple "Good to see you, how are you?" will suffice.

AWESOME:

Being home for Thanksgiving and catching up with my family. I love them so much. Especially that nephew of mine.
Black Friday with my mom. We are hard core, and I love it. She pulled an all-nighter with me, props to her! There is also no greater feeling than scoring that item you wanted through all the madness!
Skype and Facetime.
Seeing B after a week of NOT seeing him and the way he jumped off the couch when I surprised him…
Family pictures. Always an ordeal. First of all what to wear? Then how to pose? Then making sure people have their eyes open etc… love it!
The small things. From a super cute text message, to a smile, to a simple compliment, randomly going bowling, and even a small present. Love it. It's the actions that prove how you feel often more than words.
My iPad. I am officially in love with it. It has done most of my Christmas shopping too!
Hearing people talk about you when they don't think you are listening, in a good way of course.
Skyping a dear friend before she leaves on her mission.
Chocolate milk. I love that stuff.
Getting to see Jenn even if only for 15 minutes!
Christmas shopping. I love it. I love trying to figure out what to get someone else.
My Christmas station on Pandora. Ugh I'm in love with it.
How much I laugh these days…
My boots. I think I've become addicted. I just want more and more of them.
Holiday treats. I can't wait to start making them!
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. One day I will see that in person!
Hooray for it being December and my favorite time of the year.
Being able to park in my garage… FINALLY. I love that!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-28T16:55:00.001-07:00

My Thanksgiving was wonderful. It was full of family, laughing, and fun. It's so good that both of my brothers now have houses in Parma so whenever I go home they are there. It will only get better once they all start having more and more children. Mariah was in a hurry to get home for break so we left after work to head home. I don't like leaving that late, but she drove half of the way so I slept. That night we just went to Austin's because we wanted to see Liam (OK and everyone else).
Wednesday was chill. I prepped for Thanksgiving by pre-making my rolls. I also went shopping with my mother. I slept a lot on Wednesday, I knew my body needed it. I party WAY too much and definitely don't sleep enough (that's ok though). Hyrum and Emma came over and we made turkey's courtesy of Pinterest.

Cute Turkey's!

Skyping with B!

Mom's photo that she thinks is hilarious!

Thursday was turkey day. In the morning we had the 1^st Annual Turkey Trot. It was a good time, a genuine 5K. My mother and her friends are crazy about running, and so I have a feeling this will be a bonafide tradition from now on. I better get on it to train for next year. We had cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate after (like I was going to have any room later). Since we missed the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (which is my all time favorite) I watched what I missed on the DVR and finished up on the rolls. By that time it was time to eat. I am always emotional at Thanksgiving. It's that overwhelming blessed feeling I am sure. Especially when we go around and say what we are thankful for, it's hard narrowing it down to just a few small things. The food was so good per usual. My mom is an amazing cook, and so is the rest of my family. After we slept and vegged out we made our game plan for Black Friday. This year the stores opened at midnight, so it was going to be an all-nighter for us.

Getting ready to run in the Turkey Trot

The table!

My rolls! Yummy carbs!

Liam and Dad checking the turkey!

Here's Liam ready to help. Mom had her apron on so he had to have his on too!

Carving the turkey!

My sister and me. We sort of color coordinated!

Mariah getting tipsy before the dinner?

YUM! Time to eat!

Black Friday ads and Christmas list making time!

Liam just being cute!

Mom and I left at 11:15 p.m. and headed to Target. It was funny because B called me and he was getting ready to go to bed and I was just getting started. The line to get into Target wrapped around the building, it was nuts. Suprisingly enough mom and I have done this enough time we have a system. I wait in line she finds what she needs, or vice versa. It's pretty amazing. She totally got what she needed and we were in and out in 20 minutes. Next was Old Navy but the line was a 45 minute wait just to get in, uh no thanks. Then we went to Walmart and it was a ghost town and I still got what I wanted there. I guess the craziest place was JoAnn's! I had to fight off the old ladies for what I wanted there. Good thing I went and grabbed a number so we could get our numbers so we could get our material cut fast! Mom and I didn't arrive home until 8:00 in the morning. Talk about a marathon day. But it was a lot of fun. I slept the rest of the afternoon.
The rest of the break I just chilled. I really needed it. I slept and just had a good time with my family. We played a lot of games and of course Liam entertained us. Oh and we took family pictures for our annual Christmas card. When I get those I'll post those as well. I love my family! I'm so thankful I had the opportunity to go home!

Give Thanks!

2011-11-22T11:20:00.001-07:00

I don't know how much time I will have to blog while I am at home. I just seem to block out all technology when I am home (well besides TV), just because I don't want to have to worry about anything while I am there. So today I figured I would do my Thanksgiving post, because well I have much to be thankful for. Every year during this time I look back at how much I've learned and grown over the past year. It always amazes me to see how much that really has happened. How truly blessed I am for all of the things that I have. Here's my list:

The gospel. It is my source of happiness and joy. This year I've had to rely so much upon it and I'm grateful how my testimony has grown this year. Prayer has been essential to my sanity as well. It seemed that the only way I could process my thoughts was through prayer. I'm sure God appreciated it! Included are my Savior and Heavenly Father who I have been personally trying to build a relationships with.
My family. To say I've depended on them this year is a huge understatement. My mother has been there to listen, my brothers to give advice, and my sisters to cheer me up and make me happy, my dad for his wisdom and priesthood, and my sister-in-laws for bring protective and understanding. I often wonder why God blessed me with such an amazing support group of people. I am sure grateful for their understanding and love. As I've said before I love that my home is a place of refuge and strength for me, and my family will always be my moral compass and guide… "we're all in this together". I can't help but get emotional when I talk about my family because they are the most important thing to me. There are no other people on the planet that I would rather be with than them. Oh and Liam, whom I most grateful for because he's just pure joy and love.
Brycen Taylor. If I said that I was blessed to have him in my life he might get a little embarrassed or maybe it would boost that already huge ego of his, either way too bad. He has changed my world more than anyone this year. I've had quite the year with him. Last night we were talking about how I never thought we would have ended up where we are now. He is my best friend, and he makes me laugh so much. It seems life isn't as fun if he isn't there. It hasn't always been easy, in fact it's been really hard, but the more time we work on it the better it seems to become. I'm grateful that he has taught me how to patient, understanding, forgiving, and how to love everyone no matter what they have done to you. I'm grateful for his infectious laugh, tender heart, amazing hugs, and most of all his testimony of the Atonement. I could go on and on…
My Job. It allows me to live a lifestyle that I love and have fun. I'm most grateful for it, especially when so many do not have the same luxuries or even job that I do.
BFF's. I have a couple. Granted I go to them for different reasons.
- Jenn. She is my therapist. It's funny how our relationship has transformed into that. She has always been a dear friend, and we always would have a blast together, but I'm grateful that it's grown into someone who I know I will forever talk to. I'm so grateful for the pep talks she's given me via email and IM. There are many times I've had "a-ha" moments while IMing her. I'm grateful that even though we've both got our own lives now that she still takes time to build a relationship with me. I'm grateful she's honest, direct, and funny. I can talk to her about anything and everything.
- Sarah. She is the wise older sister. Well that's how I feel anyway. I'm grateful that she's always willing to drop everything and come to my rescue. She was my lifesaver during a very difficult time this fall. She's a Godsend for sure.
- Anthony. I couldn't have survived the summer without him. I'm grateful for everything that he does for me. He's so nice and good to me, and he makes me laugh.
Friends. Ok so just friends in general, I have some pretty great ones, and I love them all. Some have moved away, so that's why I am grateful for modern technology which has allowed me to stay in contact.
Temples. The fact that I have an eternal perspective is HUGE. I'm grateful for that!
My health. I still may feel icky but I'm grateful that it's manageable. That I'm working on a better me, I'm grateful for modern medicine and doctors.
My education.
Music. It has brought me much happiness and comfort this year. I'm grateful for the talents I possess.
This country, and Idaho J
The opportunities and blessings I receive on a DAILY basis

This list can go on forever. In fact I deleted a couple bullets because I can go on FOREVER. I just have a full heart. I feel so blessed that it's overwhelming sometimes. God Bless!

Source: google.com via Kristin on Pinterest

Play by Play

2011-11-21T10:08:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I love that you can be doing nothing and still have fun. That's what life is all about I think, finding people that you can do that with. My family for instance, I can sit at home and do absolutely nothing and still have the best time. That was my weekend pretty much. Friday I had all these ideas but actually we just ended up watching a movie and getting a pizza. Totally fine. Totally fun. Mariah came over for a little bit, bless her heart, I love her so much. She's such a good soul, I'm super sad that she won't be here in the winter and I'll be all alone. I don't like that one little bit. We both have had a CRAZY fall, and I don't know what I would do without her. Sorry, for my little tangent…
Saturday B surprised me with this:

Totally sweet right? I mean he went all out, homemade whip cream, homemade strawberry syrup, Belgian waffles, eggs, bacon, and of course my favorite chocolate milk. It was so good, and I was totally impressed with his cooking skills (ok so I might have helped him to the whip cream but still that's just because he didn't know how to do it and I offered). Then seriously I just wanted to be lazy. I had a crazy week and felt like I was never home, so just sitting around doing nothing was spectacular. I even put in Babes in Toyland (haha a childhood favorite), and watched who knows how many other movies. Finally we decided we better do something with our lives so we got ready and went to Idaho Falls. We went to mall to shop, and I think I've created some monsters, well shopping monsters that is. The guys went crazy in American Eagle and the Buckle. I was impressed with everything they picked out or wanted. I've trained them well; soon they will be the best dressed men around. I mostly just made mental checklists of everything I wanted for Christmas, my list is shaping up quite nicely. The funny thing about going shopping with B and Anthony is that they know EVERYONE. I'm not even exaggerating; I guess that is what happens when you have lived in this area your entire life! Every two seconds they will say hi to someone or stop and talk to someone (like my father). Guarantee everywhere we go my dad will know someone, even at the Grand Canyon!

After shopping we dropped off Anthony and I took B to Blue Hashi, the best sushi in Idaho Falls. So amazing. We sat at the bar, so I felt so posh and city like. So Hills. It was really fun, and really good food, and of course good company.

Then it was time for Breaking Dawn. I know, that movie. I wasn't THAT impressed with it, I mean the book was different, but the movie was OK. Cheesy, yes. Bad acting by Bella, given. Shirtless Jacob, yes of course. Edward looking in pain all the time, haha yup. It was good, but mostly B's commentary through most of it made me laugh the most. When you watch it you just can't think about it, just watch it and be like oh Twilight. Definitely not Harry Potter that's for SURE!

Sunday was amazing. Meetings were great, and then more meetings and firesides. I love that I have people around me who believe the same things I do. When I have questions about the gospel they can answer them, and we can have conversations that let me learn new things and analyze something that I've known my whole life, just never really thought about. A tender mercy for sure.

Side note – a crazy weekend for college football. Take that BCS! My Broncos rose in the polls. We need a few more loses and we'll be good as gold. There's still hope!

Snow “Angels”

2011-11-18T15:00:00.001-07:00

Last night was what I would call an adventure. I was just getting ready to go to Zumba and talking to Anthony when he got a phone call. A girl from our ward had slid off the road. In Victor. A place about 45 minutes away with no snow, but it ALWAYS snows there, it's the mountains after all. So we piled into Kyle's truck and headed out. The weather gradually got worse and worse until it was like a white out. Here's my observation, if you can drive in the snow and not appear to be scared or no scared at all then you are brave and courageous. Anthony was driving like it was a hot summer day. I made the comment that I'm pretty sure God gave Men that extra ability and confidence to drive in the snow and not be worried. It was all I could do just sit there and not freak out. It helped the boys were perfectly calm…

We finally arrived in Victor and found Nicole and then found her car. There was a LOT of snow. It was super wet too. So Anthony started maneuvering his way to get to the vehicle and almost got stuck himself (that part was super scary, I was just praying we wouldn't get stuck). Must be the country boy in him, he didn't even act like he was worried. So finally the boys figured out a way to pull out her car, so Anthony jumped in her car, and we helped (barely) B push the vehicle out. Pretty sure B pushed that car out by himself I was there to just maybe look like I was doing something. Impressive!

By then I was like better make myself useful and take some pictures. My phone only really captured one because it was a blizzard outside and I was couldn't keep my hands from shaking.

You can see how deep the snow was, and how much it really was snowing!

Anthony drove the white car home and B drove the truck home. The drive home was just as scary, the roads were icy and slushy and we fish tailed most of the way. Once again though we would be sliding and B would just be calm like it was nothing. I would have pure terror on my face, or be tense or something. I tell you, something they are born with. So I just cranked up the Christmas tunes and enjoyed the snow and the music and thought that even though it's midnight and I'm tired and I'm scared, I was glad we were able to have the means to help out Nicole. I thought of my future daughters and even sisters, and how if this had happened to them how scared they would be. Most importantly we didn't even question whether we would help we just pulled our resources together and got out there as soon as we could.

So snow I know we have a love/hate relationship, and you might have won a round or two last night, BUT we won the fight. Plus afterwards I got a Maverick hot chocolate, a warm fire, a blanket, cuddling, and Home Alone. That made it all worth it anyway.

Here's to a great weekend, stay warm and safe!

Ei Yi Yi

2011-11-17T10:16:00.001-07:00

Drama. It's what the world thrives on right? It is what makes the headlines and makes billions of dollars worldwide. Which is fine, just leave me alone. It's funny how sometimes your life can be so lame you wish for it? OK let me rephrase that, you wish you had friends to have drama with…

I'm the type of person that will usually tackle it head on. I'm not violent (contrary to some people's beliefs), I just fight with words, and I'm confident in what I say that usually helps my cause. This is all beside the point, the reasoning behind this blog is because I think people need to mind their own business. Usually drama is a miscommunication somewhere down the line, whether it's someone gossiping, lying, or being dishonest. I'm a person who just wants to be told everything, no need to hide or lie, just out with it already, either way it is going to hurt.

Also I really dislike people who can't fight their own battles. They cause the drama and then need help to fix it. If you lied, or said untrue things then YOU need to clear it up. YOU need to fix the problem. If you have the nerve to lie then you can have the nerve to apologize. Another thing that is totally wrong is not taking the blame when you do actually apologize. That isn't an apology, this is about me listening to you and saying your side. I'll forgive you, that's just who I am, but don't expect things to be the same. Don't come to apologize only to put the blame on someone else or still sort of bend the truth, just get it over with so we can both move on. Take it from someone who has had to apologize a LOT, it's hard, but being sincere and wanting to fix the problem will shine through words if you have the right attitude.

In life there will always be drama, there will always be arguments or disagreements. The fact is, know your boundaries. Know when something is your business or know when maybe it should be left up to the people actually involved. No one knows what anyone is going through, don't make it harder on them. Have some respect for yourself don't just assume because something appears one way that's actually how it is. Let me quote Jenn "Plain and simple people, don't be stupid". Good words to live by I think.

Positives about what I learned though:

Talking about how you feel really does heal the soul.

I could really care less what most people think about me.

Without love and understanding it really won't work.

Sometimes if you let the Holy Ghost do the talking and it's amazing what comes out of your mouth!

The Game of Life

2011-11-15T13:14:00.001-07:00

Last night I had an exceptionally fun evening, and really it's because I laughed and played a little childhood game called The Game of Life.

Source: google.com via Amy on Pinterest

I'm sure you've heard of it. Who hasn't? I was thinking a lot of different things while playing, one that I was having a really good time, and two what if my life is just like this game? I know, deep. It's true though, you choose to go to college, granted a career is just drawn for you, you have to buy a house, you have to get married, but still. I mostly found it most interesting observing those who were playing, and relating it to their game of life.

In my game I was Salesman, then a Doctor, and then a Hairdresser. I went to poor, rich, middleclass. I had twins and 2 more kids. When it asked if you wanted the family life or career path I chose family. When it asked if I wanted to choose the risky path or boring path, I chose boring. Then I collected my little life tiles and settled down in Countryside Estates.

I watched as others stressed about their loans the entire game, or how it was just their goal to have the best job, or not sue anyone for $100,000 because well, it just wasn't fair. I found it interesting that everyone chose the family life, and I wondered if we didn't have the same beliefs would we have chosen that path (I know, a little rediculous but the thought still crossed my mind). I had no problem stealing people's money, while I watched others painfully take it.

When it came to counting our money and winning it was clear who the winner was, and somehow I knew he would be the winner anyway. It took him the longest to get going, but by the end he was a millionaire. Cool, confident, and sure he pulled into Millionaire Estates with a smirk on his face.

The way we all handled our money and the different obstacles came our way was interesting too. Some shouted obscentities (NOOOO I don't want to remodel my house for $80k), others just took it in stride nodding their head and saying ok I guess, and others just suffered in silence, hoping that maybe their luck would turn around.

I know this was just a game, and we laughed and teased each other, but as I observed I realized that maybe life is just one big board game. God is just letting us spin the wheel and he is moving us on the different spaces of life.

I just hope I really skip the being sued part, or surpise you have another set of twins!

Home Sweet Home

2011-11-14T14:47:00.001-07:00

This weekend I made an impromptu trip home. It was really just well, spontaneous. I just purchased shuttle tickets and left from work. No extra clothes or anything, I just left. It was an adventure that's for sure. On the way to Parma there were two guys who sat behind me, one had just returned from Iraq (don't worry I wished him a Happy Veteran's Day) and his buddy who hasn't seen him since his deployment. They were quite chatty with me and asked me the reason for my trip to Parma. I told them bits and pieces and they thought I was pretty funny, and then he said something to me that has stuck with me for the past couple of days:

"You don't know how lucky you are to consider 'Home' your place of refuge from the storms of life. There are so many people who run from their home, and you run to it. I think that's a testament to your parents and siblings, I hope you never take for granted what your parents have established there..."

That comment just made me smile, because it's true. Then I got emotional, because here I was wallowing in self-pity and misery when others always have it so much worse. I have a place to go when life wants to kick me. I ran to the place that I knew would give me comfort and strength I was looking for. It was my safe harbor, where I am loved no matter what I've done or what has happened. It is true that my parents have established that, and it's such a blessing. My parents do not allow filth or garbage to come into our house, making it that much more of a haven. That's my goal I decided, a place where my children are loved no matter their trials, disappointments, and short comings. A place where all are loved and all are cherished, and a place were the spirit can peacefully reside.

The weekend was much needed. I found answers I was seeking, found peace I was looking for, and left with strength I needed. It's like a battery charging place, I needed to refill because I was extra low.

On a different note I don't even want to talk about my BSU Broncos. Sad...

"Better than..."

2011-11-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

(Thanks to my Jenn for doing a guest spot. Sure do love her!)

Oh heyyyy guys, it’s Jenn! You might notknow me personally but if you are a religious reader of this blog, then you’veat least heard my name mentioned a few times and seen a couple pictures of me,Sav and Hyrum from some of our great adventures. I’m pretty sure I’m the only Jenn that Savtalks about so yeah, that’s me…Jenn…One of the BFF’s. Pleased to “meet” you, homies!

For those of you who’ve never read myblog before [which you can visit here] all you need to know is that it’s big mixture ofeverything: random crap I don’t understand, stuff I think is cool, lifelesson’s I’ve picked up, updates on my life, celeb gossip, things that areannoying, people who suck or are shady, guidelines on life [aka: just don’t bestupid], the woe’s of dating/relationships, virtual slaps in the face to peoplewho I know are readers…you know, only the good stuff. So when Savanna asked me to guest blog forher just for funzies and told me I could talk about whatever I wanted too, Ifigured I’d stick to something I would normal post about—something completelyrandom.

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You’ve heard of ‘Better than Sex Cake,’right? You know…the semi-delicious cake that implies it’s better than anything,is actually sometimes referred to as “Better Than Anything Cake,” and somewherein the mix picked up the nickname “BTS Cake” from someone who probably raisedtheir kids to think that “Sex” was a swear word? Yeah. That cake.

Source: scissorsandspatulas.comvia Kathy onPinterest

Well, the other day I was trying tothink of words to describe how much I loved a certain something and the term“Better than Facebook Stalking” popped into my head after thinking about thename of that ridiculous cake. While I amsure BTS would be a good term to explain how good something really is, itdoesn’t really work for those of us who still have our “V card” (wink, wink). We need another really good comparison to usetoo, dang it! My thought of “Better than Facebook Stalking,” of course, quicklyturned into an acronym, because that’s how I roll, and voila…the birth of thesaying “it’s BTFS” came to pass.

The term BTFS is pretty self-explanatorybut let me break it down for you. IfBTFS had a definition on Urbandictionary.com it would be something like this:

BTFS—Whensomething (in the moment) is so extremely legit that you love it more thanFacebook Stalking.

Example 1: “Did you see Jamal’s new rims on hisEscalade? BTFS, for real, dog.”

Example2: “Cher’s mom gave us her credit card and toldus we could go on a shopping spree at the mall….Like, totally BTFS, right?!”

If you’ve never played around on Urbandictionary.comthen you probably didn’t understand my humor on the examples, but you get whatI’m saying, right? It’s simply sayingthat something is really cool by comparing it to something that is prettyfreakin’ awesome.

Some of you are probably thinking,“Facebook stalking isn’t THAT good.” But COME ON, people. Get real. Don’t eventell me that you don’t love Facebook stalking maybe even as much as I loveit. I know you do.

2 Reasons why I know you enjoy it:

1 You’re reading this blog right now which you mostlikely clicked from a post on Facebook.

2 Sav’s blog is a journal-type blog where she lets youin on some good dirt about her life which makes me believe that if you’re anavid reader of the blog then you DEFINITLELY are a good facebook stalkerwhether you think you are or not.

*Which brings me to the point that BlogStalking is totally BTFS sometimes. Imean people can get so deep and super weird and awkward….it’s awesome! *

Today’s BTFS moment of the morning is atribute to Sav’s “Awkward and Awesome Thursdays.” It’s something I would like to call:

MAKE THEM FEEL AWKWARD.

I was going to the restroom at work thismorning and a lady came in right after I had gotten into one of the stalls todo my bidness. Instead of being a normalperson and simply looking under to see which stall was vacant by noticing thefeet, this woman peeked in through the cracks of every stall to see which oneshe could go into. Of course that momentwasn’t BTFS. I mean, I’d much rather be facebook stalking then have some creepywoman peeping in on me while I’m peeing and making eye contact with me. Ew. Butthe BTFS moment was making her feel dumb. I really love doing that sometimes! I responded, “UH, HELLO! This stall’s taken!”Did I totally go the Forest Gump route without thinking about it? Yeah, I did.I might have even used an accent. I don’t know. I was laughing too hard insideto notice, but it was BTFS for sure. Hahahaha. You should have seen her face!You just can’t make that stuff up.

So here’s a little “Jenn Challenge” forthe week: Try looking for at least oneBTFS moment in your life every day for one week. The kicker is that means you might have tostep away from FB for a while to do it…

But do everyone else a favor and updateyour status from your cell while you’re at it :) haha.

Have a great weekend!

OK, BYEEEEEE.

Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

2011-11-10T09:07:00.001-07:00

Interesting week I've had, I learned so much in a week. Crazy right?!

Awkward:

The Buckle. That store in a nutshell is awkward. I mean love the jeans there or whatever, but to pressure people to buy $175 jeans is a little ridiculous. Then telling us to put it on layaway. Honestly if I could afford those jeans I would just buy them. I know what we are looking for so stop throwing ugly clothes or jeans our way. Laws!
When you are obviously having a private conversation and another person walks in the room and just proceeds to stand around DOING NOTHING. Hello, we will talk to you if that's what you want, but don't just stand there. Super awkward.
Going to a restaurant and ordering what we want because I have a gift card, only to discover I don't have it after all... uh oops... sorry...
Preparing a 15 minute lesson only to have 5 minutes to give it in. Pretty sure it made ZERO sense. Darn it!
Pretending things are OK when clearly they aren't.
Seeing something I'm pretty sure I wasn't suppose to see and pretending that I didn't see it.
Re-writing a text message like 5 million times. To end up only sending an "Oh OK"... seriously Savanna.
Library fines or actually any late fees. I just feel awkward paying them, like I am in trouble or something.

Awesome:

My sister Mariah. She is so wise for a 19 year old, sometimes I just listen to her and think, wow how do you know so much? Bless her.
Shopping. Especially for someone else. It brings me happiness beyond words.
Holding hands. It's my favorite!
Knowing what someone else is thinking with just a look.
Priesthood blessings that give you comfort and peace, and answers you were looking for.
My brother Hyrum. I love this kid, he is also so wise. I love that he will listen and make me laugh in the same moment.
B was teaching his lesson on Sunday and used "Oh Laws"... that was so awesome it still makes me laugh. See my lingo is pretty darn cool!
Compliments or words of affirmation. Those are big with me, followed by a hug.
A video my brother posted showing Liam praying. The cutest thing ever, children really are God's treasures.
Friends who know you and know what you need when you need it.
A really great text message that I will probably save forever. Haha!
Patience.
Journals, and journal entries. It's pretty awesome looking back on things and remembering how you felt and what was going on. My kids are going to have a good chuckle at their mother one day I am positive!
Thanksgiving is coming!
Knowing that you make mistakes but you have repentance and the atonement, it's more than awesome.
Spending an entire day with someone who makes you laugh and makes you happy, and would do anything to make sure you stay that way.

Have a great Thursday! It's almost the weekend (which I can't believe)!

Where in the World?

2011-11-09T16:02:00.000-07:00

I love the Today show. I've watched it every morning as I get ready for the day since high school. To say that I love Matt Lauer is an understatement. He's just good looking, charming, and funny. When I go to NYC (sometime in my life) I will go to the Today show and I will see Matt. Since 2008 and the economy got bad Matt stopped his yearly tradition of "Where in the World is Matt Lauer?"... A sad day in my life. Imagine my delight when a couple weeks ago Ann (Ann Curry that is) announced that Matt would again be traveling the world, and we would have to guess where he is going to be. A small and simple joy to me. HA!

This week is the week, and he's already visited Nambia, Spain, and today Malaysia. I love that he offers clues to where he is traveling next. I have no guesses for where he will be tomorrow, I am excited to see though. Below is some clips of where he was today.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

I am upset though that they got rid of the "Where in the World is Carmen Sandeigo?" theme song. Oh well I can't have everything. You can also visit today.com to get the clues for tomorrow. They are pretty tricky clues so good luck, let me know what you think?

One day I'll be able to have this adventure, or maybe be like Chuck Bass and spin the globe and where my finger lands that's where I will go. Oh... if only...

Random Loves

2011-11-08T10:12:00.001-07:00

It's official, I've purchased some Christmas gifts! Isn't that so exciting? I would be happier until Jenn told me that she's almost done. Dang. I've started to compile my list of things that I want for Christmas. That's still a work in progress of course!

Here are some random things that I am loving today.

I have a love affair with this soda. I would love nothing more than to have a ton of this for Christmas, haha! Actually fountain is my favorite, but I will drink all forms. It's so good!

I always love me some JB, but this song Drummer Boy is good. The lyrics are funny, but I enjoy it. His whole album is actually pretty good. Baby drama or not, JB can sing.

These shoes. I have a shoe calendar at work. And this shoe will stare at me until November is over. I. WANT. IT. Too bad that shoe is close to $700. I need to find knock off or something. That shoe is pure beauty, oh the outfits I already have planned for it!

This conversation. We were talking about the stock market, and my love for McDonald's obviously came up, don't worry I always choose the low carb route (except for some fries here and there). Who knew investing in McDonald's was such a wise investment?

There is my randomness for the day. I guess I better get on posting my Christmas list. So people who are on top of will know what to get me :). Don't worry I'm so excited for Thanksgiving I can barely contain myself. It's going to be awesome. I haven't forgotten the turkey yet!

Weekend Update

2011-11-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

This weekend was fun. I think it's going to take the entire week to recover from it. Friday B and I went to Costa Vida, were we saw Mariah out with her little friends. We had a good time mostly just people watching, and the plethora of awkward first dates that were there. Don't you just love watching two people trying not to be awkward and keep conversation going? We then headed to Sammy's to watch a band and didn't stay very long. Then we came home and just watched a movie, after all the snow was starting to fall.

Saturday we decided to go shopping. You know, I am an avid shopper. I can tell real quick if you are going to be someone I love to shop with or someone I am never going to take again. If you are one of those who is tired after two stores and just wants to sit on the bench while I shop, forget it! B wasn't even tired, I was so proud of him. The people at the IF mall are special that's for sure. Sorry, I can't help but look at people's outfits and be like what about that outfit says that's ok to wear out in public? HA! It definitely was starting to feel like Christmas. Sales galore and a lot of people. We went to Texas Roadhouse, visited B's sister, then came back to finish the BSU game. I was so tired, shopping just does that to you!

Sunday was amazing per usual. I got to teach Elder's Quorum. What a fun adventure that was! After church was Josh's surprise party. Josh, Anthony, and B have been friends since Middle School. They are crazy together, but love them! We just ate and chatted. Here are a few pictures from the event:

We had Hawaiian Haystacks, they good lookin' peeps were the chefs!

B and me, don't mind my lazy eye, he's only squishing half of my face.

A-town, looking good per usual on the lovesac!

Josh and his blanket that Kensie made him, one side is BSU the other is Boston Red Sox. To say that B was coveting that blanket was an understatement.

Brotherly love...

How precious. All cuddled up tight.

It was a great weekend. I love my friends and family, they make me happy. I laugh a LOT, and help me enjoy life to the fullest. What more could you ask for really (well besides some sleep once in awhile)?

Awkward and Awesome Thursday

2011-11-03T12:02:00.001-06:00

I cannot believe it's Thursday already. I had a great week, full of more awesomeness than awkwardness. That's good right?

AWKWARD:

Inappropriate Halloween costumes at a church activity. Really? There is no need for a sexy sailor, no one here wants to see that, put those thigh high stockings away.
Church dances. Ok so I love to dance so I'm cool with going, but why does everyone stand in a circle and look at each and dance? Best part though is when the "break dancing" starts. Wow, don't go in the middle unless you are sure of the moves you want to do.
Halloween parties when you are only one who dressed up or didn't dress up I guess.
Guessing someone Halloween costume and being totally off. Sorry I thought you were Aunt Jemima not Rosy the Riveter!
Crying to the point of the mascara running down your face... yes I know it's Halloween time but this is not a costume.
The in-between stages of growing out my bangs. I hate pinning them back all the time. Bleck.
When people call you and start rambling on and on, and you can't stop them without sounding rude, but you know nothing about what they're talking about, and when they finally stop, expecting you to have a wonderfully clever answer, you have nothing more to say than, let me transfer you to [insert name here].
There are some nights where I check facebook right before I go to sleep and then again when I wake up. You know you didn’t get enough sleep when it is the exact same updates. Even more awkward is that I do that before I go to sleep or get out of bed. Wow.
How messy my bedroom is right now. More like embarrassing.
When you know someone is lying to you or hiding things from you. Not only do they continue to lie, but they are satisfied with themselves that they think they got away with it. Don't worry I know the truth, and one day it will come out.

AWESOME:

Having a boyfriend... ok so he's always been there, just making it official (even on Facebook oohhh ahhhh). He makes me happy (and he's cute).
Being yourself with someone, no secrets, no half truths, just yourself, and knowing they support you no matter what you tell them. That's scary but awesome.
Realizing how much I love books, and how much I've missed reading them.
Being called by a nickname or pet name. Love that.
Painting my nails an assortment of different colors. You can usually tell my mood by the color of my nails.
Halloween this year was so awesome. I had a lot of fun, and really my costume technically wasn't even a costume. I also loved making not-so-Halloween sugar cookies.
Having a hopeful and bright future to live for.
Late night runs to fast food places, I know so unhealthy, but it makes me happy.
Those people who are on your side no matter what. Loyalty is totally awesome.
Just putting it out there that sometimes being a rebel and breaking the rules is totally awesome...
Singing Christmas songs, or just singing with people who can sing good in general.
Today I find out whether I am going to have another niece or nephew. I love my family. They are amazing, and I love to see how we are growing. It's totally awesome that my some of my best friends are my siblings...
Diet Dr. Pepper!
Losing 5 pounds this week... spectacular!
MSN Messenger is totally awesome, I mean so what if I lived on it in 2000? I still enjoy chatting now.
Prayers, faith, and hope... boooyah! Ok so the Gospel in general!
And finally this (because I love "Chuck Bass")
Source: weheartit.com via Savanna on Pinterest

Happy Weekend Eve... I'm so ready for a fun weekend!

Motivation

2011-11-02T15:55:00.001-06:00

This is my computer screen at work. Isn't it funny? I mean I love Post-it notes, but more importantly I love what these particular notes say. They are my quotes. They often change, sometimes I put scriptures up, or sometimes when someone messages me something funny I'll write it down and put it up there. Just depends. Sometimes I don't have any attached to my screen. I think it just reminds me of what I want out of life, or that little push that you always need. Maybe it just reminds me what my end goals are? I should take more pictures of the quotes I post, then it will remind me what is going on through my head that day.

What are some of you ways of reminding yourself that you can do it, you can succeed, and more importantly you're worth it? Every person has their motivation, whether it's words, pictures, or memories.

Don't get me started on the quotes that I have written in my scriptures. Jesh!

Happily Ever After

2011-11-01T15:18:00.002-06:00

There's this song Happily Ever After by He is We:

I love it. I love everything that she sings about. I often have those lyrics running through my head... "can't we just skip to the ending... will I end up happy?". That's not how it's supposed to work though, I said that once to B and he said "no, what's the fun in that? You miss the journey, and the journey is the best part". I've just been thinking about that lately, the journey sometimes is so hard, and scary. Other times, it's so fun and amazing. Those fun times should definitely outweigh the bad, but usually if its something good it isn't easy. It takes work, commitment and lots of faith. I love the saying, "Find joy in the journey..." No matter if it's scary or hard, you find the little things that make you happy and you hold onto them and remember them. Sometimes you need a hand to hold, or a shoulder to cry on as you make your journey and sometimes it just is trenching through it to get that end result. It's like reading the last few pages of book, and once you've read them you are so upset because well now you know and it's not as exciting. As hard as life gets and at times it seems like there might not be hope in an outcome, it will come, we've just got to go through the hard stuff to enjoy the good stuff. What's that saying that I hear all the time, oh yeah "Endure to the End..." Everything will be alright in the end, and if it isn't, well then it's not the end.

We all have a story to tell, whether we whisper or yell. Finding the path and staying on it is the hard part, stop trying to predict my ending and my future. Let the story unfold on its own...

Halloween Festivities!

2011-10-31T10:28:00.001-06:00

I don't even know how to begin about this weekend. Honestly, I thought it was just going to be sort of boring, and relaxed. Which is good, but it was crazy and so much fun.

Friday we decided to go to a Halloween dance in Idaho Falls. I didn't even plan a costume this year, I know I am super lame. That's ok, I pulled my resources together and went as a cowgirl, at least I had a costume! Anthony made sure we were all put together, and we met Dani down in IF. Ok, so can I just say I go to this dance every year, and there are always a BAZILLION people there. Not this year, nonetheless I still got to dance and that's what I wanted to do mostly. I even got to dance Thriller, so Halloween is complete. Here are some pictures of our adventures on Friday:

I don't know what B is, I don't think he does either. HA!

Anthony and Elliot getting ready to race on the obstacle course.

The things these boys do. I mean honestly. Don't mind the creepy girl in the background. OH and I just noticed orbs too in the picture... creepy...

Elliot flying!

Mr. Rodeo Clown trying to master the art of bull riding.

No comment on this boy's skills

Dani and Anthony. She's so cute, I think I will be that next year for Halloween!

The crew. Look at us!

B after his like 3rd Kool-Aid Jammer... getting drunk off the Kool-Aid??

Saturday we had to get up early to clean the church, and then we went and helped Bishop. I was so tired from the night before that I crashed and slept, after Mariah and I got pedicures. Then I made B and I dinner, and we went to see In Time with Justin Timberlake. I really liked it, an original concept and really made you think. Granted we went to the late showing and I was super tired, and it made me stay awake. That's a good thing!

Sunday I had to teach the lesson in RS. It went really good, and totally in a different direction than what I thought it would. Guess that is the way it happens. We then decided to go to Brycen's mom's house to play Murder in the Dark, makes some Halloween sugar cookies, and maybe a movie. I know get it all in. It was a lot of fun. We didn't play Murder in the Dark, but we made sugar cookies, granted they were Christmas shapes but whatever, they still had orange frosting. We watched The Others, I forget how weird that movie is. Then we just talked, and laughed. I hate how the weekends are too short... Boo (HAHA)!

Frosting the sugar cookies

Guess the shapes!

I think I am mid-bite of my sugar cookie. And laughing per usual.

B's artistic ability...haha

Poor Dani, has to put up with him...

See what I mean?

B was so good at making the shapes and frosting them. Good thing or I might have to give him away to someone else...

B and Ma Taylor. She let us invade her kitchen, per usual. She's just so funny, and kept us entertained.

Happy Halloween! Spppoookkkyyy!!

Awkward & Awesome Thursday!

2011-10-27T10:38:00.001-06:00

I love that my life has awkward and awesome moments. It makes me happy.

AWKWARD -

Giving B's sister a hug and totally getting a boob in the face. Funny, but it was my fault for not standing up I guess. We laughed a good long time about that one.
Running like a little school girl to my apartment after two dummies scared me. Literally I screamed so loud I'm surprised it didn't wake anybody up. It was borderline laughing and crying. Yes, moments like that are also awkward.
Not acknowledging what you just saw or what someone else saw. Then continuing on in conversation like nothing happened. Secretly inside though I am super flustered. Oh life!
You know those moments when you are telling your story and then you realize that NO one is listening to you because there is so much going on? Yeah awkward. So you just stop talking and then someone was like oh I was listening, continue... (LIAR!!!)
After talking about debt in Institute the teacher asks "What are some things are OK to go into debt for", and I just say "a car". You would have thought I said a luxurious yacht or something. Everyone in the room then scoffs at me for having a car payment. Really people? Who can just shell out that kind of money? Get real. Dear students and teacher, I saw the cars that were in parking lot, we all have car payments!
I know I can be a brat sometimes, and I admire those who are nice to everybody, but giving a ride home to someone who is really weird makes for the most awkward car ride ever. Its like OK, lets just keep talking so the silence isn't even more awkward than this conversation about dragons and what have you.
That moment after you tease someone and then you realize that it probably wasn't a good idea... they either didn't think you were joking, or they don't find it funny. Uh awkward.

AWESOME -

Hot tubbing when it's freezing outside, or when you are freezing. Love it, OK so it also helps that I love the people I am with too.
Seeing Mariah experience a Cocoa Bean Cupcake for the first time. Seriously she was so funny, and she was like this is the BEST thing I've ever eaten. Our choices for drinks though were not as good, I should know better than to stray from what I like.

Mostly in general I love that my sister lives in the same town as me. I love that I can just call her up and she will come over or vice versa. She's such a good soul, and really I love that our relationship is growing. This fall has had some rough patches and I seriously don't know what I would have done if she hadn't have been there for me.
Inside jokes.
Being told you're beautiful.
Nothing beats the fact that you see someone or something and can look at another person and they know exactly what you are thinking. Then you can just laugh about it without saying one word.
A really good foot massage after a long day at work, and even better not even asking for one.
Family stories, whether yours or others are the best. Nothing beats good memories (or bad ones for that matter) that you can laugh at later.
My mom using the word "slutville" in a sentence when talking about a girl and her nasty ways.
Making Sunday dinner. Ok so I love cooking in general, but there's just something about a nice meal on Sunday.
Tender mercies for me, or for those I care about.
These moments with Mariah at Porters:

Happy Thursday! Life is good, we are blessed, so enjoy it!

JB and Zac Efron

2011-10-25T16:45:00.000-06:00

Today I recieved an email with this picture and following caption:

“the saddest looking happy people you will ever see.”

Proceeded the following conversation via email with the BFF Jenn... who I might add is the only one who understands and shares in my obsession with JB and Zac Efron.

J - Omg,THAT is the face of a true JB fan. bhahahahahahaha

S - Ithink why I find it hysterical is because I would probably be the same way. Imean honestly, I would be nervous, so I would start crying, and then he wouldtouch my shoulder and I would try to smile through the tears….

J - LOL!Spoken like a true JB fan. Seriously, I would freak. I’m not sureif I would cry but I would be a wreck. Like “omg, should I go up to him. Omg.Omg. Omg.” And maybe hyperventilate. I think my picture would be theGOOFIEST biggest, over the top excited smiled… and I’m not sure which isbetter. LOL

S - You know I would ask for apicture with me kissing his cheek and then slip and maybe kiss him on the lips.But then his body guard might tackle me, darn it. I guess I’ll stick with thehalf hug, you know, you get what you can. Then maybe, just maybe I would askhim to sing a tiny bit of a song while I recorded it on my iPhone. Maybesomething like “I am JB and I love you”…. I know you can hear him singing itnow. I might pull out my Beats and be like look I am cool like you. LOL!

But JB is minorleagues. If I met Zac Efron… you know I would try to spider him or something.

J - OMGOMG LOL I am dying. I lovethat we are mid 20’s and we would still kiss little JB. He’s talent andgood looking, what can we say. I can totally see you asking him to singyou a little ditty while you record it on your iphone. I would be DYINGlaughing.

I wasthinking the same thing about Zac… The Efron is a completely different storyfrom JB. MMMM>>Spidering?! I could see it happening. … “Shhhh ShhhZac, just let it happen!”

S - That’s right. If I kissed JB itwould be considered illegal still. Crap. And I would go on the sex offenderslist and then I wouldn't be able to hand out candy to the Trick-or-Treaters. Darnyou JB and your adorable face and voice of a 17 year old.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHA.... “shhhh Zacreally…” (I would hold him down for you really)…one day Jenn one day we willmeet him, and I will hug him and say “You’ll never know how you and HSM changedmy life”….

J - Andnot being able to hand out candy at Halloween would be tragic but maybe worthit a little?!? Meh, wait a little longer then it’s completely legal.

HAHAHAHAHZac Efron and HSM did change my life. Omg, if we said that to him he’d probablybe like, who are you, you little freak!? But actually I’m sure he gets thatkind of crap all the time. That’s it. We have to meet him!

Thank you J for making my Tuesday better. For making me laugh hysterically at work, and for loving the same things I do.

October's Over?

2011-10-24T11:20:00.001-06:00

Overall my weekend was good, I hate that they go by so quickly, how many days until Thanksgiving? BSU football game, birthday parties, sleeping (or lack thereof), and I even made Zesty Italian Chicken! I still haven't gone on my walk though, I HAVE to do that this week. HAVE to. I did watch Hocus Pocus this weekend, so if nothing else I have watched my favorite Halloween movie. I still have no idea what I'm going to be for Halloween, I have some ideas floating around in my head, they are fairly simple though so I should be good. I do however have to watch a scary movie sometimes this week, it wouldn't be Halloween without one...

Here is my new obsession:

It's really no secret I love anything with vinegar, on my sandwich, or chips, but these, wow they are heaven. They are not only salt'n vinegar, they are super low in carbs. Two problems, they are super hard to find, and they aren't cheap. I have now depleted my stash. DANGIT! Let the hunt begin.

Also I know I am a huge dork but I'm excited for this movie:

We are officially caught up on Gossip Girl. So good. So now I'm making everyone watch The O.C. because well nothing beats Seth Cohen, I mean really.

I promise too I will start taking more pictures.

Awkward and Awesome Thursday!

2011-10-20T14:08:00.000-06:00

Awkward:

Seeing my neighbor try to scrap the frost off his HUGE truck in the morning. Only to see him fail miserably, so I offer my extra large scraper and he just looks at me like that's an insult to his manhood or something. Well never mind then!
Almost ugly crying after an emotional night. No one needs to see that. I'm pretty sure the stage between cute crying and ugly crying is just as worse though. Then trying to talk through it is even worse.
Laughing and accidently having snot come out, in a really inopprotune time. Even more awkward is when the other person reminds you of it. Can't we just chalk it up to embarrassing and move on? Haha!
Pretending like you didn't just see that girl pick her wedgie at the store, but then she has to look around afterwards and you catch each other's eyes. Laws.
Getting "scolded" at for de-junking an office space. Get real lady this isn't Hoarders!
People pointing out your flaws. Excuse me, I know what they are, no need to bring them to everybody's attention.
Mr. Tuttle (ok a code word for a guy a work with, go ahead Google Mr. Tuttle) not only seeing that my hands are EXTREMELY full and thinking it's funny to cause me to stumble, but also asking if he can have a bite of my breakfast. Ew NO!
Enjoying some Oreo's and milk, only to realize that I'm now licking my fingers. Brycen then asking, "uh how were those Oreo's?" Sorry, I was in carb heaven for a minute.

Awesome:

Swallowing some pride and doing what you have to do, and not worrying about anyone else.
Crying at Jimmy John's and not caring because really the most important things you care about are sitting right across from you.
Hiding in a car in plain sight just because you aren't ready to "face" the world yet, and having someone actually hide with you makes it even better.
Someone actually sticking up for you, and defending you. That's the ultimate test of loyalty.
Having a dream that I am Blair Waldorf and I pretty much am amazing. I have my same beautiful face, just her clothes and hair. Oh and her attitude. Mr. Chuck Bass?
Telling someone how you honestly feel, and hearing their honesty back. There is nothing more freeing than talking about what is going on inside your head and hearing what's going on in there's.
Footloose!
Falling asleep and then getting gently woken up.
Listening to someone play the guitar and thinking that no one is watching them or listening to them.
BFF's. Love them.
Love. In all kinds and forms, it's just pretty much the most awesome thing every. And even doing something awkward and it doesn't matter because well it just doesn't.

Tunnel Vision

2011-10-19T12:11:00.001-06:00

Ever fear that there's no light at the end of the tunnel? Like literally you think, I'm never going to see the end of this?

I had an "a-ha" moment last night. Maybe the end of the tunnel isn't supposed to be figured out. Maybe that's the purpose of life, to just keep on pushing, having confidence that eventually you'll see the light. Faith is having confidence in someone or something, and having fear is exactly the opposite.

It is so hard to not have fear. Fear is easy to succumb to, it's easy to be afraid. It's hard to have faith. More often than not good things are hard things. It's so hard to trust others, to let others in, fearing that they might hurt you. The more you trust someone or something the more vulnerable you have to become. You just have to have faith they won't hurt you, they will love you no matter the problems. This has come full circle for me, remember this post about unconditional love? It's amazing how much I learn from other people, and how much they teach me about myself. They teach me that love really has no end, it can grow.

I'm pretty sure that I've learned more about myself, and relationships with those I love in the past year than in the whole other 27 years I've been alive. Isn't that funny? There are no coincidences, things happen for a reason, whether it's being at the movies and running into someone or deciding that morning not to go to work. All things are for my benefit, and having faith believing that very thing is what life is all about. No need to be afraid of that dark tunnel, I've got a flashlight and hands to hold onto until I reach that light.

Let's Hear it for the Boys!

2011-10-17T12:08:00.000-06:00

I had a great weekend. Not totally what I was planning (understatement), but still good.

Hyrum and Emma and came down and it was so good to see them. I love them. Even though they are both younger than me they are both just so wise and put together. Together they will do great things. ANYWAY, we decided to go to Footloose, only because well I've been wanting to see that movie for like ever, AND Hyrum is the best person to see dancing movies with. HA! I was a little disappointed with the music selection, but the hip-hop part was fantastic. Julianne Hough was dressed as a little skanky for the first half but you know those are her rebel times. While you are watching it though you can't help but dance along, and even sing to the classic songs. For anyone who loved the first one, you'll love this one just as much. Secretly I was hoping for a Kevin Bacon cameo, but alas I was disappointed.

We left and went and danced our hearts out and sang a lot to the Footloose songs. Memories like that, I will never forget.

Saturday consisted of me getting a massage, some temple time, some soul searching, and Gator Jacks. Oh, and Taylor's birthday party which was fantastic. Emma's family is just great. That night I also went to the movie Real Steel. Can I just say that Hugh Jackman is amazing? Everything about him. Delightful. Also the movie had like 3 songs with Eminem in it... love.

Sunday was good, it was chill (and I loved that). Said goodbye to Hyrum and Emma. I even managed to fit in a little Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. Ok so maybe I turned it on and watched like 2 songs, that still counts right? Sunday was good, the silly rain interrupted my walk to the river. Sometime this week, has to be done. Snow is right around the corner.

My beautiful sister, jamming out!

Love her.

Crazy cats.

Ok so Mariah is doing her booty dance while I pose, and Hyrum who knows what he's doing. Funny, yes.

At Taylor's party.

Hunter (Emma's nephew) and Hyrum. I love Hunter's shirt, so festive!

Pretending

2011-10-14T14:48:00.000-06:00

A lot can change in a week. I guess a lot can change in a day. I guess that's why everyday you have the chance to make it your best day.

I get sick of pretending, I've just decided that it's ok just to be me. Once I had a person tell me that there's no use in pretending, they could tell how I was really feeling anyway. Hope that's true, because well I'm tired of pretending. I wear my emotions on my sleeve (thanks mom). It's funny because really I think there are only a few people in the world who really understand how you think and know how you feel, those people are the ones you don't have to pretend around, try and hold onto them, it's the only way to survive. I found this quote by Oprah yesterday and even posted it to Facebook, because well it just summed up what I had been feeling "Anyone pretending to be something that they're not will never become all that they were meant to be..."

One thing at a time, take baby steps, be who you are and love it.

I've never really been a person to sit there and give myself pep talks, it just sort of plays out on its own. But lately I've had to do a lot of pep talks, like literally out loud say my mantra. I am sure if someone was to walk by they would give that "you're crazy girl" look.

I'm grateful for the listeners, who don't try to solve my problems, just listen. That's all I want out of life usually, you to just listen, then hug me and say "it'll all work out" or "it's ok".

I guess I've still got a lot left to learn, silly me, thinking that I had life figured out. There's that planner in me, thinking I've got some kind of control, but it's good for me. If God makes you do it, he'll help you through it. Done and done.

As if this post couldn't be any more random and indecisive, I have a fun weekend planned. Hyrum and Emma are coming up, so we are going to Footloose (hooray!), Halloween party (I haven't figured out my costume yet, either Pirate, Gangster, Mermaid...HA), some BSU Football, take my annual walk by the river to see the trees (I can't believe its that time of year again) and some Savanna time.

Cheer to the freakin' weekend (if I drank, I would drink to it)!

Building My Foundation

2011-10-12T09:52:00.000-06:00

I've been thinking a lot about my foundation... not literally like in my house (silly), but who I am as a person. What makes me, well me? On Sunday I was involved in a discussion about what I believe and what makes me happy. There are many components to that question obviously, and many things have shaped me into who I am. When life is hard and trials come (believe they come), you can either turn to the foundation you have built look deep and hold on to the firm grounding OR you can look at elsewhere at the "false" happiness (often covered in glitter!!).

So what have I built my foundation with?

God. The strongest part of my foundation is him. When everyone else comes and goes he's always there. A relationship I really have to work on, but well worth it. No matter what I do or say he just patiently waits for me to figure it out.
The gospel. Such a broad term, but really it's everything that I am. I know it's the only way to true happiness. Yesterday I was having a discussion about this very thing, and I know that the only way to live my best life is to live the gospel. It's hard sometimes to block out the world and go against the norm, but this truth will never let me down.
Family. I am so blessed to have a mom and dad who work so hard and who want nothing but the best for me. I often wonder what I did to deserve not only a loving mother and father but siblings who care about me. My love is deep for them to the point that it makes me emotional. I make many mistakes and I have a crazy life and yet they always are there. They pick me up and dust me off and say, you can be better you can accomplish anything!
Friends. Isn't it crazy how God (see there he is again) puts people in your life for a reason? Some have a huge impact on your life and some are there just to make you laugh once and awhile. With friends there are rough patches, and sometimes you wonder if it's worth it. But take it from me, they are worth it. Sometimes you have to show tough love, and sometimes you have to take a step back, but friends, people who you love and care about, those people are the ones who will help you pick up the pieces. Help form the corner of the foundation. They teach me to trust, because well they know everything about me and can hurt me and I have to trust that they won't. My friends are my family away from home.

There are a lot more things that shape who I am, that build my foundation. Even through hard times and good times maintaining a strong foundation is the only way to true happiness. The picture below is amazing, I think it describes a lot about what makes a good strong foundation - your values.

Life isn't easy. In fact most of the time it really is hard and it sucks, but there's help, and having a strong foundation is what makes it all worth it.

Manic Monday

2011-10-10T16:14:00.000-06:00

I loathe Monday's. My entire life I have hated them. They are always the yuckiest day. I am always SO tired, and I always feel so lazy. Just so happens that Monday's are always the busiest and the most frantic. Manic Monday... TOTALLY get it. I really hate Monday's to the point that Sunday night I start to get sad. That's a problem, I'll have to fix it. I especially hate it when I have an incredible weekend, it's like HELLO your weekend is over.

Here's what I did this weekend:

Shopped until I couldn't shop anymore. Almost like Christmas... Almost. I purchased some amazing clothes for the fall/winter we have here. Mostly for work though, still cute, obvi. One day I will be paid to shop for others, one day...
Spent time with old friends. Always good, always a delight, and always needed. I forget how much I love them. How much they make me laugh, and most importantly. keep it real.
Sushi. I always forget how much I love it. Obsessed is a better word.
Shellaced my nails (look it up people). Oh my nail heaven... in LOVE. They are beautiful, and shiny, and well I'm just in love. Thank you Nellie!
Motorcycle rides are most delightful, especially in the fall and gave me an excuse to wear my "leather" jacket and boots. Ok so it maybe took me longer to get ready for the ride then the actual ride, but whatever!
Straw Maze. Haunted. It actually wasn't as bad as it has been. I mean there were other girls who were way more scared than me, so Mr. Chainsaw man chased them. I got scared a couple of times, but nothing too horrible. Except for when I got left by myself, or at the end, I didn't like that at all.
Spent time with my sister. Love her. Seriously funny. I wish I could live in her head for one day, I think it would be fabulous.
Smiled. I did a lot of that this weekend, and laughing. And maybe a little crying but good crying.

Really though, a great weekend. One I will always remember and never forget. I guess that's why I can make it through this Monday... Oh Monday!

First Snow & My Love Jimmy...

2011-10-06T13:57:00.000-06:00

Well it's here:

Snow. Winter. Cold. Ice. Oh and it is only October 6th. Yeah, my birthday was a week ago. I got a sunburn on Saturday. Oh Idaho! Love you! So to celebrate this amazing day I busted out my Pandora Christmas Station on the iPhone. This was the first song to pop up:

Pretty much AWESOME. Good news Justin Bieber's Christmas album hits iTunes Oct. 17th! Can you say EXCITED?! Nothing says Christmas more than a JB album right?
Also today is Customer Appreciation Day at Jimmy Johns. So $1 subs for us. Kristin and I headed out during our lunch to grab some, yes, we went out into the blizzard to retrieve our beloved Jimmy Johns.

The store was pretty jam packed, but we seriously were in an out in MAYBE 10 minutes. Impressive Jimmy Johns... I love you.

Look at those delicious lunches. Most fantastic. I paid more for my Diet Coke then I did my sandwich. Speaking of soda, I might have smuggled these for some certain people who love Dr. Pepper and frequent my house a lot.

Yes those are my Beats as well. I made Kristin listen to them and now she knows why I am obsessed with them, I think I will wear them as a necklace tomorrow. Just kidding, but no really, I listen to them everyday. Even my Christmas music sounds better. Now she knows why I FREAKED out when I got them for my birthday. Anyway, here's to a LONG winter I have a feeling, and to celebrating the little things today! Ciao!

Name That Tune

2011-10-05T16:24:00.003-06:00

I had a text message conversation today that went like this:

"Savy I have a question(s), and I know you'll have the answer"

"Oh yes, I know all, please ask away"

"Where have all the cowboys gone? What if God was one of us? Isn't it Ironic?"

"Uh, is this a 1990's song revival question? To which I answer the following....

The cowboys live in Wyoming, or in the small towns of Idaho. Marry a cowboy was the only marriage advice I was ever given. So stick with that.
God is like one of us (sort of), he isn't a slob or a stranger. We are his children
What is Ironic? Rain on a wedding day, or a free ride when you've already paid."

"Ok I'm glad cowboys exist, I really want one for a husband. God is among us, that gives me comfort. I hate irony, it's such a negative thing, don't you think? Wait what do you mean 1990's song revival this are legit questions I have. Those questions are all SONGS? WHAT???"

"Wow... and I thought you would laugh at my witty answers, because well they are all part of the songs... WOW. Who thinks of questions like that, you are officially weird. Love you, but odd."

"I'm all sorts of confused now. Maybe I should look them up huh?"

Now riddle me this, how ironic was this conversation? Like good advice that you just can't take....

That is my silly story for the day. If only my life were as carefree as some profess theirs to be. Don't you ever wonder if today will be the day that something will go your way so I'll hold on for one more day (wow there I go again quoting songs...)?

More BSU, and Drama (HA!)

2011-10-03T15:37:00.000-06:00

What a crazy weekend I had. Maybe crazy isn't the right word, fun? Yes. Drama? Yes. Sun-burnt in October? Yes. Since it was General Conference weekend and the end of my birthday week, I topped it off with a trip home and a BSU game. Awesome. Brycen and Mariah both had to take tests Friday afternoon so I left work early and got everything packed and then we went and picked up Mariah. On our way from leaving her apartment we totally saw this girl SKID (no I'm not exaggerating) across the pavement after falling of her Razor Scooter. SO FUNNY. Sad, but funny. There were a lot of people around, so I'm sure she's chalk it up to one of the most embarrassing moments... We were only 5 minutes into our trip and I knew it was going to be great. Next we saw two barely dressed girls doing Yoga outside of Tuscany right by the round-about. Ok seriously? You can do that ANY place else? Ugh, Brycen yelled at them to get some clothes on. On our way outside of Pocatello we even saw a guy on his motorcycle wearing Ugg Boots. Yes, 80 degrees outside and on a motorcycle wearing THOSE shoes. Funny. Anyway, we made our way to Parma just in time for halftime for a PHS Football game. Maddie is just so cute! After the game (and an experience in the parking lot which included Brycen teaching a boy a lesson about minding his own business), we went home. So good to be home, and so good to see everyone! I love that my entire family lives in Parma so I can see everyone at once. It makes me happy! Sidenote* - see in Parma there's always drama, that's just how it is, love it or leave it I guess, and because of the incident in the parking lot and many other things that made for an even more eventful night. I would say that B would fit right in! HA!

The next day was the BSU game and it started at 12:30 p.m. It was already hot when we got there, and the whole afternoon we pretty much roasted. We had great seats though, really close to the field, and I got some great pictures. I had so much fun, I love BSU. Dad and Hyrum came with B and I, and we yelled and hollered along with everyone else. The only downside, we wanted beverage, and it's like $3 for a small bottle of water and I won't tell you what I spent for a lemonade... ugh! Anyway, it was a good game, and we won. I had a lot of fun! That night we all played Buzzerwizzer, such a fun game! Trivia mostly which means Mom or Austin will win, but I did a pretty good job considering, it was still fun. Playing board games with my family is one of my top 5 favorite things to do!

Sunday was conference, which was so good, per usual. My mom and Kenzie made some amazing food, and we chatted. We watched some more conference and then headed home. I wish I lived even a smidge closer, grateful that 5 hours isn't that long, but still, I would like to minimize that number a little. Overall I had a fun weekend with drama and a LOT of laughing. Always a good thing. Perfect way to end my birthday weekend 2011, now I only have 360 days left until my next celebration.

B and I before kick-off. I have squinty eyes because of that darn sun. Oh well. Super cute picture nonetheless! We had a lot of fun, I love football!

Dad and Hyrum at the game!

Here come the Broncos! Goosebumps!

OK, guy in the orange shirt was a tad crazy. OK a LOT crazy. He loved to taunt Nevada, and screamed a lot at the referees. Funny.

My love Kellen Moore. He's just pretty much amazing.

B and I during halftime. Pretty much on the field, yeah we are important.

Finally, this kid. Not only is he talking and turning into a full fledge little man, he's so cute and so funny. He loved my headphones that I got for my birthday, and he would just stand there and dance. So cute!

BBQ BSU Bash and Beats... for Ms. Blaylock!!

2011-09-30T10:27:00.000-06:00

I had the BEST birthday! My beautiful friends surprised me with a BBQ BSU Bash at the Bishop's house. I thought we were just going to have dinner at Craigo's and do something after, but they sure fooled me. When we pulled up to the house I thought maybe something was up, but I didn't see any cars, so I was like oh I'll just run in there and grab something. Those tricksters! They popped up from behind the counter, and I was so happy to see my old and new friends all there. They all lied to me, and really I didn't think they cared that much about my celebrations, but they did! They've been planning it for weeks. Love them. Mariah was the best liar though, telling me she had a group project that girl! The food was so good, and everyone was dressed in blue and orange, that also made me VERY happy. I wore heels because I thought we were going to dinner, and my roommate Brittany brought me a BSU shirt, so we were good to go. It was so much fun, and I throughly enjoyed myself just hanging out with some of my most favorite people in the whole world. They sure fooled me, those little tricksters... it's hard to surprise me, because well I usually have to have a plan, and know what's going on. So love them!

Ms. Mariah and me... I think it is crazy how much we look alike!

Look at those cute decorations. I didn't capture the blue and orange balloons, but they were there. The bishop's wife did SUCH a good job.

B and me, we look so good in blue!

My life long friends, I was most surprised they were there! I love them!!

B enjoying feeding me, on my BIRTHDAY!

Most of the posse who came to my celebration!

I told them to be silly, some people have problems with that!

I love this shot because we are all randomly laughing, and Leroy is chowing down on his food.

Bishop Kunz who I love so much, seriously his yard is beautiful, and he's just fantastic.

Kober, Me, and Ry... this was before my BSU shirt arrived.

Love this kid... I mean seriously.

Oh my BFF Sarah...

Thanks to my princess she threw this amazing party for me, I owe her. Plus she looks FAB in Bronco Blue.

I got so many wonderful gifts from my friends. Brycen however went and got me something that I've always wanted but never have thought about buying for myself. Dr. Dre Beats. I seriously about DIED when I opened them. I remember the first time I met B he pulled them out and I was like you OWN some Beats? Of course he did, and now I have my very own pair. They are a beautiful cherry red, and seriously I slept with them last night. HA jk! He sure surprised me that's for sure. Thanks B, you're amazing!

My red velvet cake, it was so good!!

Riana testing out the Beats, she was impressed with how amazing they are.

I will use them as an accessory I think.

Lookin' good B. Now you can wear yours and I'll wear mine!

Riana got me a singing Bieber toothbrush. Yeah pretty epic.

Thank you to everyone who not only spoiled me on my day but thought of me and gave me cards, greetings, text messages, Facebook posts etc... Last night I was re-reading all the birthday cards and greetings I got and was so overwhelmed by everyone's thoughts. I truly have the best friends and family around. Speaking of family. This weekend we are headed home for conference and the BSU vs Nevada game. I'm so excited, as it is part of my birthday celebrations. We've got seats in the end zone so that should be fun! I do love Parma and of course BSU.

Yeah... It's My Day!

2011-09-29T15:04:00.000-06:00

Picture on the left is from last year, picture on the right is from today! Isn't it crazy how different I look for one? Second, I cannot believe it has been a WHOLE stinkin' year. I'm old. I was talking and reflectiving with my Lo about the changes I've made. Never in my whole 26 (well now 27) years of life, has so much happened to me in one year. It really is nuts! I not only changed physically (yeah I'm about 60 pounds lighter than last year), I found a whole new group of friends (including boys), jump-started my career, moved 3 times, and accomplished 3 things on my bucket list. Say WHAT?! Pretty insane year. I've felt love and heartache and I've laughed and cried more this year than ever (more laughing than crying). Oh and I got an iPhone, ha! 27 seems so old to me, but at the same time, I'm still young (I'll let you know when 30 comes). I also feel like I emit this glow on my day of birth, because well I usually do. I woke up smiling! Today I've realized how much people love me, not just like, but love. And really do KNOW me. See this is why I love my birthday, this is why God gave us birthdays... it'sYOUR day to feel loved (and eat whatever you want). Embrace it! Happy Birthday to Me!!

Birthday Eve

2011-09-28T16:59:00.000-06:00

Here is my new hair. Yeah it's dark super dark... It will fade but I love the face people give me when they are like whoa look at yourhair.

Birthday Eve celebrations going on tonight yo! Iam excited my birthday week hasn't been the best (mostly due to work) but youknow me... Nothing will stop me from celebrating my birth. The real reason Ilove it? I just feel love and appreciated by so many people it's addictive.Tomorrow is the day and I think this year it is going to be pretty low key,just me and the crew. Yeah, I can totally handle that!

Lessons and Quotes

2011-09-26T11:00:00.000-06:00

What a crazy weekend. OK so I really didn't do anything that crazy (besides watch a documentary on Lions and Tigers.. and Ligers exist just saying, oh and Gossip Girl), but once again I learned a lot about myself. It surprises me actually how much I am learning about myself and relationships with other people (like this experience). Probably because I've been a little too selfish so the Big Guy upstairs likes to shake things up a bit. I guess at 26 (ok so 27 in three days), I figured I had most of it figured out, I mean that's who I am. I plan things, I take control of the situation, and I try to mold it into something but that's not how it really works I guess. I'm so grateful for friends who teach me so much, who listen, who support, make me want to be better, and who most importantly understand and don't pass judgement.
Last night we also watched this movie:

Source: deseretbook.com via Christi on Pinterest

Seriously, this movie changes you. It moves you. This was the 2nd time I had watched it, and it still had the same impact. I knew what was coming this time so I had even a better grasp on what was happening. There are so many life lessons the Pioneers can teach us. I walked away with a sense of wanting to be better, and wanting to have faith like they did.

Sorry so much of my posts lately have been so serious. I guess that's OK, life isn't always rainbows and butterflies. Don't fret though, I laugh a LOT, here are some funny quotes of the past few days...

" I am righteous hear me quote" (You know instead of I am woman hear me roar)... so funny. Thank you Singles Ward testimony meeting for giving us entertainment.

"If you are asleep, you need to wake up because I have something that needs to be said, and believe me you'll want to hear it"... and then proceeds to talk about nothing for the next bazillion hours and totally has no idea what he's quoting or saying, and rambling. Good thing I woke up for that :). Yup, testimony again.

"You can judge someone by their righteousness if you get into their car and they have NO music playing"... HAHA, uh really? So funny.

"She's interested in things like Playboy... OMG I meant GAMEBOY'S, you know like gaming..." Uh yeah that would be me saying that, in WARD COUNCIL. So funny, and it got everyone laughing pretty hard. I was mortified. Also I am pretty sure Gameboy's haven't been around since 1990.

I also love when singing in church and it's just the women's part that a total off key man sings, and LOUD. Seriously, makes my day, only in church.

And to end this totally random post I have discovered that it's the most incredible feeling when you know you can trust someone and they can trust you. No matter what you say or do, they'll listen and love. Yeah, that's pretty cool.

My Life is like The Hills

2011-09-22T09:29:00.000-06:00

I mentioned this in my last post but honestly I feel like my life is like The Hills. Minus the clubbing and drinking, and being uber rich.
I am Lauren... call me Savy B.

Source: iheart-stolenimages.blogspot.com via Savanna on Pinterest

Of course I am her, hello this is my life, so I'm going to be the main character. I wish I had hair like her. I wish I had her dream job, but it's cool, I love my life.

I have my own Justin Bobby, you know the boy who you never really date but you both love each other anyway? That person in your life is who brutally honest, listens to all your girl drama and makes you feel like you can't live without them. Minus the whole disappearing for days act, and the whole not showering thing. You know that you're Justin Bobby will more than likely forever be in your life, some days more prominent than others. Will always meet you for "drinks", and will always keep it real with you, because well Justin Bobby does NOT mess around. He may not purposely hurt you, but he does because well its JB, and he's a bad boy. Now I know that Lauren never dated Justin Bobby that was Audrina's avenue, but hey cut me some slack.

Then there's Brody. Granted my Brody and I we never dated, but let's face it, Brody is a little heartless at times, and does what he wants to, but secretly really cares a LOT. I do not care if he dates my friends, and is quite frankly a serial dater. We always rendezvous back to discuss our love lives. How many times did Brody have to tell Lauren about Stephanie? But still Lauren did her own thing. Totally the same in this situation. We have a good time together, and I would do anything for him, but we'll never date, and we both have to approve of our significant others. Brody doesn't care what others think of him, and often times he's making the same mistake over and over again.

Oh my Lo. My Lo lives in a different state, but she's the one who has been through everything. It's that friend that no matter where you go in life they will just always be there. Lo is the best listener, and just goes with flow. She knows you better than anyone around, and keeps it real but supports you through all of your mistakes. Knows exactly what you need and want, and loves to gossip with you. Hello!

Audrina. You know that secretly Lauren didn't like Audrina, just had to be her friend for the show. We all have an Audrina. That person that hangs with your girl but secretly you CAN'T stand. You know she knows way too much about you, so you can't just walk away from her, you don't what she would say. Ok, so I don't hate my Audrina, it is more like I can't trust my Audrina. She's someone who I love, but can only really count on for 50% of the time. Get my drift. Everyone has an Audrina, male or female.

Heidi, yes I have a Heidi. That girl that you've got a serious past with, and sometimes you run into them. You loved them so much but they've hurt you so bad you can't ever be friends. You can be nice and cordial, but you'll never be the same. It hurts to much to be friends, and you'll support them through life but you won't know anything about them. It hurts to see Heidi because you miss what you had, but really, it was time to move on.

Whitney. Your work BFF. Whitney knows EVERYTHING about your life, and I mean everything. You spend the most time with Whitney because well you work with her. The nicest girl with the best intentions, and really I wouldn't love work if I didn't have my Whitney. You know that you may not work together forever, but you'll always be friends.

Isn't it crazy? I just totally put myself in a TV show. Last night we were out eating and we were talking about someone and how crazy they are I totally was like, this is The Hills, where are the cameras? Except my drama is real, and I am a believer in that The Hills was real for the most part, because well I live it.

Love a Little Too Much...

2011-09-20T15:57:00.001-06:00

What a crazy bunch of days I've had. I have learned the following things:

I miss college, and yes even some homework. OK so I miss learning new things.
I may or may not learned some accounting and found it interesting, WHO AM I?
You really don't know what someone is going through, so smile once in awhile. It changes lives people!
Might as well be yourself, and love it!
I really enjoying laughing, like full out, can't breathe, kind of laughing.
Inside jokes are my favorite!
Telling people your goals is the best way to make sure you stick to them. Espcially with my friends, they LOVE to remind me when I'm not up to par. But hey, that's why I told them in the first place.
I love to cook (ok so I already knew this), but really I love cooking for others, just cooking for myself is BORING!
BYU Football I mean really. Everyone should just bleed blue and ORANGE. It's the only way to go.
My family is incredibly supportive and incredibly loving. Ok so this isn't something new.
Is it bad that when I'm praying I tell God "really this trial isn't funny anymore, please send help, ASAP"?
Netflix is the best invention ever... thank you Austin & Kenzie
My birthday is FAST approaching and I still have nothing planned. I'm starting to freak out a little.
I might have to start being a little more heartless... sad but true.
Surround yourself with people who lift you up, make you want to be better, understand your weaknesses, and most importantly make you laugh... A LOT.
Either you're moving forward or backward, standing in the middle doesn't count.
Isn't it amazing when you find people who know how you feel without even saying anything? Yeah, that's pretty cool...
My life is like The Hills... no seriously, it is. I have my very own Brody, Justin Bobby, Lo, Heidi, and Audrina. I'm currently trying to avoid finding my Spencer.
Actions speak louder than words, so recognize WHAT you're doing, AND what your saying.
It's ok to build other's egos. They usually need it.

9 days until I'm 27, 10 days until I am in Parma. I love having something to look forward too.

PS - Listen to Natasha Bedingfield -"Little Too Much" that song speaks more like YELLS at me.

Birthday Wish List Part 2

2011-09-16T16:15:00.000-06:00

I've added a few more things to my birthday list. It's just the closer I get to it the more things I resist buying at the store because I "might get that for my birthday", however, if I do not tell anyone of my findings I will not get it. So here they are:

- Toe rings, I've lost 2 this summer, which was a real tragedy, I've had them for so long it was like a part of me died with them. Silver please. And nothing too flowery, that's not how I roll.
- The Hills Season 4 or Season 5 Part 1
- Philosophy Foundation - medium beige
- Perfume
- Gift card to CosmoProf
- Queen bed sheets (I know now I'm old)
- Flowers

I've totally added a ton more to this list too:

http://re.pn/b/B9Yt

Ok, that should be everything I think I have forgotten. I have less than two weeks now and nothing planned really. I really need to get on it.

I just re watched Laguna Beach Seasons 1 and 2... so fantastic. I sometimes wish my life would be filmed like that, then I could look back at myself and laugh at how ridiculous it all is. We have all started getting back into The Hills and I find it fascinating how so many situations on that show relate to my life. How I also relate to one person on that show (I like to think of myself as Lauren). Last night I went to dinner with B and Ry and I was like this so feels like The Hills because we were talking about relationships, and eating. We just needed some music and awkward pauses.

This weekend I plan on watching football and possibly riding in the combine. Should be epic. Hopefully I can get my trusty old camera back out and document my life, goodness me. Here's to hoping my weekend is fun and drama free... hey I said HOPING! :)

Change.

2011-09-14T13:50:00.000-06:00

Source: muchlove-anna.blogspot.com via Savanna on Pinterest

Unconditional Love

2011-09-14T09:24:00.000-06:00

Ever have an experience where you walk out of it thinking "wow I was way off"... Then you feel completely ridiculous because you were being so selfish about the whole situation? I think as humans we are inclined to be selfish, and certainly now that I'm old and single I have a tendency to think a lot about "me". The past few days all I have thought about is me "why can't things be different?" or "why do I have to go through this?", but last night I kindly but firmly was reminded most of life is about other people. Everyone has their own trials and problems, and part of life is helping people get through them. It might go unnoticed and at times seem unappreciated, but I learned, especially last night, that you should always trust yourself and your "gut" (or as I would say the Spirit). Sometimes people just need to know you care, and sometimes it takes swallowing your pride and hurt and saying that no matter what I'll always care about you. Having an unconditional love is hard to come by, but I realized that for some people it's just there. You laugh when they do and when they hurt, you hurt 10 times more. It's worse I think seeing someone suffer than going through it yourself. When it's you, you just take it in stride, but watching someone else go through it just makes you feel so helpless. I think too that sometimes people want you to give up on them, because well it's expected, but I also learned that you can't give up. If I give up so will they. Things change, people change, relationships change, but caring about people, and making sure they know they are loved, and you're their #1 cheerleader, that should never change. After all, the Savior never will give up on me, so why should I give up on others? So I'm here, when you're ready to talk, or even if you never really want to talk, just know that I'm here. I can make a mean cinnamon roll, or even just drink with you (Dr. Pepper that is). I'm a great sympathy crier, and really no matter what has happened it won't stop me from caring about you or loving you. After all, that's what I am here for, to help you. In the end though, I'll be the grateful one because I will have learned so much more about unconditional love and patience.

Never Forget

2011-09-12T11:14:00.001-06:00

Yesterday whilst cooking in the kitchen and making my famous salsa for Sunday dinner I turned on the BYU Channel to find this playing:

Not only did it touch my soul but I realized I was crying (and I wasn't even cutting the onions). I love how music can soothe my soul, and make me feel emotions I didn't even know. I cannot believe it has been 10 years since the attack on the World Trade Center, yesterday we all were reminiscing about where we were when it happened. I remember exactly how I felt, and how I cried then too. Then I remember how I felt something I really hadn't felt before, the love I had for my country. I didn't realize how blessed I really was, and how the human spirit really can prevail over anything with the help of God. May we never forget those who have lost their lives, and how we as a Nation can rise above anything!

Fair Time!

2011-09-09T10:39:00.000-06:00

Last night we went to the Eastern Idaho State Fair. Oh it was quite the adventure! First of all Brycen knew every soul there… but that's expected because you know he's from Rigby. It's like when I go to the Canyon County Fair, I know a LOT of people there. Plus I'm used to it because no MATTER where we are my dad knows someone. No kidding, we could be on a remote island in Bora Bora and he would find a farmer he works with or something. Anyway, I was mostly excited for the fair food. I saved my carbs and calories for such an event. I split a prime rib sandwich with B (ok so not split, he ate most of it), funnel cake, and 2 lemonades. Later that night we got Tiger Ears! I searched and searched for the fried twinkies but couldn't find them, UNTIL we were leaving and everything was closed. Dangit! Anyway, we made our way over to the animals, and that always makes me think of Parma and FFA. Brycen gave me a lecture on the process of breeding cows and it was quite intriguing actually. See I learn something new every day. After making our way through all the animals (and I felt like a country girl again). Kyle even stuck his finger up a pigs nose… HA! We made our way to the photography and then more food. I know! Riana and Lauren had to leave early so we decided to go ride some rides. Seriously, I am a thrill seeker, I will ride anything, but I am terrified of the Ferris Wheel. Maybe because it's high and slow moving? The boys thought this was quite entertaining! We also had a good time trying to find the "best looking" Carnie! There are also so awesome looking people just at the fair… loved it!

Mariah is officially back in Rexburg and I'm very excited. Now I'm not going to be alone anymore. She also brought all these tomatoes and such so I can make salsa. Done and done!
I also just finished watching Season 1 of Laguna Beach… oh.my.gosh. I forgot how much I love Trey and loathe Kristin.
I guess this post has become more of a random one… but I'm so excited for the weekend. College football, catching up on my DVR (hello I still haven't seen Jersey Shore this week), and finishing unpacking my room. OH and maybe I will just take a ride on the combine, courtesy of my dear friend Anthony. And sleep. Always sleep.

Labor Day Weekend

2011-09-08T13:50:00.002-06:00

I had quite the journey trying to get home for the Labor Day Holiday. I had moved two days before I was set to leave, and then I had to clean my entire old apartment. So I had little sleep under my belt… PLUS I had the worst toothache EVER. I was beyond stressed. So on Wednesday I just went into the dentist and he just had to pull it out (don't worry it's my wisdom tooth). Thank goodness Brycen was just going to follow us to Parma on his way to Washington, so he offered to just drive Riana and me there. Bless his heart. I was in a lot of pain. It is always so good to be back in Parma. Now that my entire family lives back there, it is just so good to be with everyone. I was just excited to relax and spend time with my family. Riana was catching a flight in Boise so she got to see the infamous Parma, ID. On Thursday we went shopping, and Friday was just a lazy day. That night we went to the first home football game and to watch Maddie cheer! I always love football games, and it's funny that I will still enjoy watching them at PHS 10 years later (I know I'm old). Saturday we all went over to Grandma Blaylock's house. My dad is redoing her kitchen and it is going to be a family event. We mostly cleaned the outside and everything. While the boys demolished what was left of that OLD kitchen. Then we went and walked around the barn. I have SO many childhood memories at that place. From the swing set to the old green house. It's just crazy. What's even crazier that not much has changed since then either. The old milking barn is just exactly the same as it was when I was kid. Sorry there's my nostalgia kick for the day. Saturday afternoon/night was time for college football. First BYU than BSU, both awesome games. I love college football and more importantly BSU Football. Sunday we had a big family dinner and then seriously stayed outside ALL day under the tree. It was so relaxing and fun! That night was our annual kickball game. We added new members this time around with Emma, Fletcher, and Brycen. It was super fun, afterwards we had a fire in the back yard. Monday we went back to grandma's to sheetrock and paint. Brycen and I had to go back to Rexburg and I was sad to leave! Good thing I'll be back for my birthday!!

Liam and Mariah at his first PHS football game!

Ry and Me at the game. I love that we match.

Grandpa and me! I love him!

Cute little cheerleader Maddie

BSU game time!

Ry is ready too!

Liam wants to play more than watch the game! He's so cute, I love him so much!

I am the star player... pitcher and first baseman!

Someone takes this game a little too seriously!

The winners, but I think they cheated!

Team Neon, definitely the best!

Typical Austin always being the funniest!

Nice pose Hyrum!

Here we all are! Seriously so fun!

Beach and Crabs

2011-09-06T10:07:00.002-06:00

Finally! I can get around to our last day in California. We decided to go to Huntington Beach. I just love the ocean so much. I've never really ever swam in the Pacific Ocean because whenever I am there it's just too darn cold. Not this time! The other girls just wanted to lay out, but Brycen, Me, and Anthony all decided to swim of course. The boys even went and got boogie boards. They could have played for hours out there. It was pretty crowded, and I'm pretty sure I almost got decapitated twice by a surfer! The waves were big though and that's always the best part.

Here we are at the ocean. I just love this picture!

Ok and I love this one too. It was such a beautiful day!

Anthony on his board! He decided he was a pro!

Hello ocean, how I've missed you!

Sun-bathing beauties!

Look at these hard core boarders, I mean honestly.

We are the swimmers of the bunch!

Hey ocean!

Of course it's only tradition to have a "jumping on the sandy ocean pose!"

Brycen and I attempting such pose, I will blame it on him.

See, told you it wasn't me. These two seriously.

Oh hey Huntington Beach Pier!

I loved Huntington Beach. I had never been there. We had a great time. It was time to then catch airplanes and such on our way home to Idaho. We wanted some sea food so we stopped at Joe's Crab Shack. I love crab legs so much, and lobster. So I decided to get that, not knowing they give you a WHOLE lobster! Thank goodness B was strong enough to kind enough to help me eat it all!

I am ready for my crab, bib and all!

Riana and Monica

Look at that sea food!

So good!

B on the way to the airport, trying to hide from the police!

Riana enjoying the calendar?

Riana and her crab legs!

Yay for good food!

I can't wait to go back to California and spend more time there, it was so fun!!

Birthday Wish List

2011-08-29T15:39:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe it is here AGAIN! Only the best day ever… My BIRTHDAY! Ok, so it's exactly a month away, but you know I tend to make September more of a birthday month anyway. Also, if I give people one month to shop for my birthday wishes, hopefully I'll get some of them! You know that this following list has some RIDICULOUS items, but hello that is why it is called a WISH LIST! Mostly I want my bills to be paid, but that's not going to happen so I will put some other delightful things on my list. Hooray for my birthday (I still haven't even planned my party yet? What's up with that?)

Gift cards to the following places:
- iTunes (Thank you iPhone for getting me addicted)

iPhone cover

Anything with a BSU logo!

Nail Polish (you know how I love my colors)

Measuring cups & spoons

Shoes – size 10 (ok so I want brown riding boots mostly, but I'll take any kind of shoe)

Mani/Pedi

Jewelry

Any type of workout clothes, you can never have too many.

Plane tickets

$$$

iPad

Laptop

You can also look here:

http://re.pn/b/B9Yt

I've started collecting some ideas in case you get stuck J.

Six Flags - Magic Mountain

2011-08-29T09:20:00.001-06:00

Day two of California was well just as crazy, but we at least got to sleep some. It took us a while to get going, but finally we made it to SIX FLAGS Magic Mountain. I didn't take any pictures this day only Anthony did (and I haven't gotten them from him yet). This park isn't as backpack friendly as Disneyland so I didn't even carry my phone. It was pretty hot by the time we finally got there, and there were a LOT of people there. Since we got a late start we figured we only had time for 4 rides (because well the lines are close to two hours long). So our first stop was the Goliath:

Super fun. Anthony had never really ridden on a death defying ride before, so this was a great start. It was so fun, Riana, Me, Brycen, and Anthony laughed and screamed our way through this awesome coaster. Then we went on the Superman ride, which goes from 0-100 mph in close to 5 seconds. I screamed a lot on that ride too. B and Anthony just laughed at me. Since the wait for that ride was also a bazillion hours I went off to get us some food and beverages. Come to find out EVERYONE in the park is cranky and hot, case in point, when I'm standing in line to get a drink a girl and her boyfriend tried to pick a fight with me. All I said was, oh sorry but the end of the line is WAY back there. I guess they had enough of waiting in lines because all they wanted to do was scream at me. I was not in the mood for such ridiculousness so I just said, well if you are going to cut at least get behind me. HA! Seriously I'm not going to fight you. Chalk it up to another part of my crazy vacation. We then went on the Viper which has like 7 loops or something crazy like that. I rode with Anthony and he just made me laugh because he's like a little girl. Everyone was hungry and tired by then, but B and I were still itching for more rides. I was DETERMINED to ride the X2, because well I heard its' the scariest thing you can go on. So the rest of the crew went ahead to eat and we decided to go stand in line for another 2 hours to ride this fantastic ride. We met some "wannabe" actors in line, and they kept us entertained. Finally we got to the ride, and they put us into the front. I was really nervous for this ride, as anyone should, just look at it:

So a straight down drop, plus your seat moves, so you really have no idea where you are going. Plus it's dark. I even got B to scream on this ride. I screamed so loud and so much I lost my voice (for an entire week I might add). You seriously can never see the track. My picture was epic. I wish now I would have bought it, pure terror is all I can do to describe it. Since we still hadn't heard from the gang I convinced B to run across the park to see what other rides we could jump on. This was seriously the best part of the day we rode probably 3 more rides. We walked onto 3 roller coasters! We so didn't want to leave. We promised each other next time we come back we are getting there when the park opens and we aren't leaving until they kick us out. What a great day. Minus the waiting in 2 hour line.

Late Night “Burglar”

2011-08-25T15:48:00.001-06:00

I know, I know. I'm not done with my California trip yet, but I had to document what happened to me last night because well, I always want to remember it. I don't like living by myself, anyone who really knows me knows that. I've been doing it for about 2 months and at times, yes, I do love sometimes. I can do whatever I want, but I'm a social person, and really I just miss a roommate to come home to and talk to about life and my problems. ANYWAY, last night was so hot in my apartment. Rexburg doesn't get too hot in the summer except for 2 weeks out of the year being this week and next. I was exhausted, so I put my pajamas on and laid down on the couch to catch up on my Bachelor Pad, of course I left the door open because it was HOT! I must have dozed off because when I woke up there was a man standing in my doorway. Ok, so two things went through my mind:

1. Where am I?

2. Holy crap I'm at my house on my couch with the door wide open at who knows what time in the morning. There is a stranger just staring at me, probably a predator, he wants to take everything I own including my virtue (I know, too much Law &Order SVU).

So of course I screamed, not like a scream on the roller coaster, but a scream that would hopefully wake the guy (who I pretend to think protects me) who lives below me. You know, I always wondered what I would do if I felt like my life was being threatened, would I be able to scream? The answer is YES. Next instinct, protect myself, throw the intruder off guard enough to escape through the back door. Since I had gone running my tennis shoes were right by the couch. They were heavy they could at least impair said intruder. So I reached down and threw my shoe as hard as I possibly could. I'm pretty sure I yelled something at the man, but I can't remember, all I remember was "haha, lucky me, I'm a darn good softball player, I can hit anything dead on!" When the intruder moved his head just as quickly as I had thrown the shoe I knew I was in trouble. Next thought "where's my iPhone?" I had been texting when I fell asleep so it had to be close. By that time I could hear the intruder talking to me, something about a police officer and just making sure I'm OK, and then I realized, this man wasn't trying to assault me, he was trying to help me. Then that feeling came after you've had a scare and I have to tell my heart to stop thumping so loudly. The conversation then went as follows:

Officer: "Miss are you OK?"

Me: "Well I was until you scared the CRAP out of me…"

Officer: "Well I was alarmed with the door open and it being so early in the morning. Just because you live in this town of Rexburg doesn't mean you shouldn't lock your doors at night, or ever for that matter. There are a lot of things that can still happen."

Me: "I usually do, but I must have dozed off. I can assure you I will never fall asleep with the door open again."

Officer: "Good to know, you can go back to bed now. Pretty good aim too."

Me: "Uh, thanks…"

Then he left, and I dead bolted the door behind him. I mean, I can see why he stopped by BUT why didn't he knock? OK so maybe he did knock, that's probably what woke me up. Why didn't he have a flashlight or something, rapists and burglars don't carry flashlights. I appreciate the hard working law enforcement of Rexburg, but please next time make as much noise as possible before entering my house so I don't throw a shoe at your head and then get arrested for assault. Pretty sure I'll tell this story for a long time to come because it is FUNNY, but I was SO scared in those brief 10 seconds that I was quite proud of myself for at least TRYING to defend myself a little.

Moral of the story: Maybe Rexburg should have a little more drama going on, so police officers don't have to go around looking for open doors.

Our Adventure Begins - Disneyland

2011-08-23T09:13:00.000-06:00

So my roommate Monica decided to move back to California, and Anthony decided to help her drive back. Since both Monica and Anthony were already going to be in Cali, Riana and I decided to join them. I have to make a yearly trip to Disneyland after all! When I mean this was a quick trip, I really mean it. We left Friday at like 9:00 at night, and arrived at Brycen's close to 1:00 in the morning (yes, B decided to come on the trip Tuesday before we left). Riana and I realized we were matching with our BYU shirts and navy shorts. So of course picture!

Since we had to be at the airport at 5:00 in the morning Riana and I really didn't go to sleep. On the other hand this sleepy head did:

I woke him up around 4:00 and he got up and looked at me, and then went to the fridge and stood here like this for a good 5 minutes. By this time I knew he was sleep walking, or in between sleep and awake. Riana and I were laughing so hard. He was even calling me rude for laughing so hard at him. I ordered him into the shower in which he stood in the dark bathroom for another 5 minutes. If this is how our trip was going to start out I knew it would be a whirlwind adventure. We were still late getting to the airport and we had to check luggage too, so B used his "con artist" skills to get us to the front of the security line. We seriously walked right onto the airplane (no Cinn-a-bon for us).

Since B decided to fly last minute with us he was on stand by which equals upgraded seats which then equals leverage to a stranger so he could sit by us on the airplane. Luckily we all got to ride together, and it was fun.

Brycen, Me, and Riana in the back seat of the Cadillac. Good times were had, and we laughed A LOT.

As soon as we stepped off the plane (at 7:00 a.m.) it was time to go to Disneyland. First we stopped at McDonald's to get food, then to the most magical spot on earth. Last time I went Monica and I found this guy who sells discounted Disney tickets (rents out tickets at a discounted price). Is the neighborhood a little shady? Yes. Did he give Brycen this ENTIRE box of chocolates? Yes.

The boys had never been so I was SO excited for them to enjoy the magic. We got started a little late but it was still so exciting. Word to the wise, never go on a Saturday to Disneyland in the MIDDLE of the summer. The park was JAM packed full of people. I guess I've just spoiled myself in years past with little to no wait on anything.

This was our first ride at Disneyland, Toy Story. It was a lot of fun, and of course Brycen beat us all. Typical.

I mostly love this picture because this is what Riana and I did most of our vacation. Laugh. Brycen was talking this picture and someone walked right in front of before he took it. He made some face and then it took us 5 minutes to calm down to take the dumb picture. Oh Riana how I love you, and how you make me laugh!

These boys are so funny. Best friends since like 7th grade they are always gossiping about something. I just so happened to capture this picture of them. Who knows what they are talking about, knowing them something ridiculous.

Here we are in front of Disneyland (our only group photo). Pretty exciting (and super hot I might add), it's a good thing we didn't go to Splash Mountain until midnight (more on that later)

Here are the first timers by the castle. 28 years it took them to get there! I'm sure glad I was there to experience it with them though.

So here is the picture of us on Tower of Terror. I love this ride, evidence with my mouth wide open and screaming. So fun though. This is when I discovered that Brycen loved seeing my reaction and screaming my head off then the ride itself.

Here we are almost getting on Space Mountain, we waited an hour for this ride. The longest wait of the day, little did we know the next day we would be waiting 2 hours for rides at Six Flags. Still though, it was fun. You have to invent games in lines, make friends with those around you, and try not to fall asleep because you haven't slept in 2 days.

Of course you have to ride the Teacups. I don't know what I was thinking going with Anthony and B on these things. They spun me so fast I screamed most the time. We were a little dizzy after this! B way to be creative with the camera, looks like you really are holding the teacup. HA!

We went on a Small World too, because well you have to have the full expeirence, and we laughed a lot. Between Anthony and Brycen, and the three big fellows in the boat with us, they almost captsized us when rocking back and forth, so I got wet on that ride. So since we were already getting wet, we made our way to Splash Mountain. The wait for this ride has been 2 hours all day, until 11:00 at night. So of course, we went on TWICE. The boys really loved this ride, they screamed and laughed the entire time. We all got SOAKED!

All of us in the boat!

Seriously one of the best Disney trips I have expeirenced. I laughed so hard the entire day, and who doesn't love going with your BFF's? We didn't get to see EVERYTHING, but I'm sure we will go back. I did however get to eat my Dole Whip, and watch the magical fireworks. I think the boys loved their experience, they loved Soarin' Over California the most. By the time we left the park it was close to 1:30 a.m. We were exhausted, wet, and hungry. We stopped by an In-N-Out which has crappy service, and horrible milk shakes. Oh well. As soon as we arrived at the house we crashed because the next day was going to be Magic Mountain Six Flags!

Pauly D

2011-08-15T15:15:00.001-06:00

Ok so I sort of wish that we were best friends, and I would give him standards (and a new hair cut), but seriously he's got some of the most amazing pearly whites and I LOVE his personality. Haha!

;

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

M-E from A-Z!

2011-08-12T13:50:00.002-06:00

I've had a rough week, no doubt, one of the hardest I've had in a REALLY long time. Taken the wind right out of my sails a little you know? Then the BFF Jenn said something to me yesterday that made me think of something along the lines of "do something for yourself, empowerment... fist pump"... OK so it was probably nothing like that, but that is really ALL I remember. Then another friend said "who is the real Savanna, I want to know"... so I decided that I can empower myself and answer the following questions in a form from A-Z!

A - I sort of love Awkward situations. I love the word Awesome. I think Antlers displayed in houses are ridiculous. I absolutely love being an Aunt, best job ever.

B- Blaylock is the last name. That's pretty cool, unique I like to call it. I also love all types of Berries, and I don't think I Blush very often. I love my Birthday.

C - Confident. Something my mother always taught me to be, and for that I will always love her. Granted sometimes I have to fake it, but deep down I just know. I also love anything Coach. I love the show Cops and I love to Cook. I am obsessed with Clothes.

D - I hate doing the Dishes. I can't live without my DVR. I have a Degree and consider it one of my greatest accomplishments. I love to Dance. I love Diet Dr. Pepper.

E - I love to Eat (I've had to change some habits, but still I love it). Eggplant is one of my most favorite colors. My alter ego's name is Eunice. I can't hide my Emotions well, you pretty much know how I feel.

F - I have an obsession with college Football, if there is a BSU game on, I'm watching it. Most Saturday's during the fall I am watching football. I also love my Family very much, and I have some amazing Friends.

G - I always have Goosebumps. I love a Good book. I love to give Gifts. I want to someday be on a Game show (preferably Price is Right or Wheel of Fortune).

H - The Holidays are my favorite time of year. Sometimes I wish I could be more like a Hippie, and go with the flow. I love History, anything and everything about it.

I - I am obsessed with my iPhone, don't know how I lived without it. I live in the Icy tundra of Rexburg. I love sharing an Inside jokes.

J - I love Jumping on trampolines. I have many memories on that beloved thing. I love Jewelry. I also love a good Joke. My middle name is Jade. I love Jersey Shore.

K - I want to Kiss under fireworks someday and Kiss a complete stranger. I hate wearing Khaki pants. I really don't like the expression "they are a Kick in the pants". I crack my Knuckles when I am stressed or anxious.

L - Love, a word I use often. I Love quickly and deeply. One of my favorite sayings is "oh Laws". I once had a boy Lick my teeth when trying to kiss me (best story ever). I love to Laugh, and it's not hard to make me laugh either.

M - Mother, I love mine and someday I want to be called one too. Music usually makes me emotional. I love Musicals, always have and always will. I love good Memories ones that make you smile or laugh.

N - I love being called by a Nickname I also love creating a Nickname and it actually sticks with that person. In most cases I really hate being told No. I love my Nails and awesome Nail polish.

O - I love Oprah. I love Olives and I have to put them on my fingers before I eat them. I am the Oldest child of 5 and it's a huge part of who I am.

P - I play the Piano. I love Purses. My car's name is Pearl, and I love her! I love when people use Punctuation text messages. I grew up in a town called Parma, it shaped and defined my life in many ways, I hope my children will be as lucky as I was to grow up in a community like mine.

Q - I wish I could be Queen for a day (mostly for the clothes). Qi is my secret weapon word I use when playing Words with Friends (I love that game). I rarely Question my decisions, I just make it and go with it.

R - I can be pretty Rowdy when I'm around certain people. My Religion plays a significant part in my life and shapes who I am as a person. I used the word Rude a lot. Working at Rocky Mountain was one of the best jobs I ever had, probably because I worked with Jenn everyday.

S - My favorite letter is S. I love my name Savanna, and get super bothered when people Spell it wrong. I had a dog named Sassy, I cried for two weeks when she died.

T - I want to be a Teacher someday. People who have no Tact irritate me. I love to Travel.

U - I secretly wish I could ride a Unicycle. In high school I would play Uno with my friends all the time. I admire people who can be Unique and don't care what others say or think about them.

V - I enjoy playing Volleyball. I Vent my feelings often. My goal is to Vacation as much as possible. Someday I want to Visit the Vatican.

W - I've lost a lot of Weight this past year, sort of a crazy emotional ride. I love to play in the Water. I only like Winter before Christmas (I know I live in the wrong place).

X - I have never had an X-ray. I get eXcited easily. I want one of my children to have a name that starts with X, I just haven't found one that I like yet.

Y- I associate Yellow with sunshine, oh how I love it. I would much rather Yell than whisper, yelling is much more fun. One day I will learn how to Yodel. One day I will own a teacup Yorkie.

Z - I love Zack Morris, just saying. I think it's super embarrassing when someone's Zipper is down.

So there you have it. That was really quite a healing moment just then, because really I am pretty cool. Just plain ol' M-E from A-Z.

Zion's National Park and Bryce Canyon

2011-08-11T11:35:00.001-06:00

We woke up pretty early to get to our next stop of the adventure is Zion's National Park and Bryce Canyon. I know had to break down and buy a pair of tennis shoes, and since it was early I didn't have a lot to choose from. I didn't want to waste my money on a pair that I wouldn't ever wear again, so I found some pretty cute Adidas ones. Anyway, we headed out to Zion's and I was also excited to see this beautiful park, mostly intrigued becuase I really didn't know what to expect. We rode the bus into the park and first stopped at Weeping Rock, it was a short hike but the view was awesome. We then went to another trail which leads to the Narrows. A pretty easy hike, with a lot of people around. But still fantastic. Then all of the sudden downpour. So funny. I mean I am drentched, and my hair was curly that day so I was starting to get slimy too. Thank goodness Dad let me where his uber cool hat. I wasn't cold though, so that's always a plus. OK so back to the tennis shoes, I'm super weird about dirty shoes, and they were BRAND new, so mostly I was annoyed that they were getting red rock all over them. I'm so dumb. HA! Anyway, we went on one more hike and that one was super slick but it was also beautiful. By then we were SUPER hot and hungry. So packed up our stuff and decided to go get some food. WE stopped at this cafe that had amazing food. I loved it. The most amazing thing about Zion's is the drive out of the park. I mean the whole thing is beautiful, but the rocks and formations and color, OH the colors, it was spectacular. A must see. No wonder they call Utah Zion? HA!

At Weeping Rock

Bus riding...

Ok so this is not only a post rain picture so that's why I have a hat on, but next time I come I am bringing sandals, you ford that river and can walk WAY back in there. Someday...

Where my shoes got all gross... HAHA!

Leaving Zion's...

Leaving Zion's... isn't it awesome?

Starting the hike to the Narrows.

Look at my cute shoes! HA!

Driving out of Zion's

Of course, have to get a picture by the sign!

Weeping Rock

This was at our restaurant where we ate lunch, it is a t-shirt for a beer company. So funny.

So our next stop was Bryce Canyon. I know I keep saying that everything is a must see, but honestly, I was speechless when I was here. Almost emotional. Just because there is nothing in the world like this place. We got there sort of late, well just enough time to hike to the bottom of the canyon. My mom really wanted to hike it because she hasn't done it since she was little. This hike was intense I mean straight down and straight up, but the colors and the formations were breathtaking. We were worried about rain and flash flooding, but all part of the adventure right? (Sorry there are so many pictures, I just couldn't stop myself)

The hike down

Isn't it so cool looking?

This is from the highest point in the Canyon. It just looks so different!

Before the hike, see those rain clouds...eek!

At the bottom of the canyon looking up

I tried not to get too claustrophobic. HA!

Dad and me!

This is also at the bottom of the canyon, you wouldn't believe we just climbed down a mountain.

I am just so silly! HAHA! The best part about this photo, every foreigner after me did the same thing. HA!

I love the contrasting colors.

The hike back up!

Back at the top!

There's Utah!

It seriously was so awesome. I wish my whole family could have been there for this adventure. At one point my mom and dad were yelling at kids to stay on the path and screaming children in the caves. Oh good times. This was the last National Park of our adventure. Boo, my trip is almost done!