When you're pregnant, you find so many people that really care about you. Every day when I walk into work, everyone that I see will ask me how I'm feeling. It's pretty strange at first, to be honest. But now I'm really appreciating it. Every person in church, neighbor in the laundry room, supervisor at work, and friend at school that I run into really wants to know that I'm doing okay. And if I'm not doing okay, they'll tell me about how their mother-in-law's niece found a cure for morning sickness and proceed to send me the recipe. And I more-than-appreciate all of it.
The first 14 weeks of this pregnancy have been pretty good; disregarding that I have nothing to compare it to. I've been pretty consistently nauseous the entire time. I've had killer headaches that I've never been close to experiencing. I've been tired at any given moment. I've also seen and heard my own baby's heart beating. I've made endless plans and goals for our near-future children. I've watched my husband smile as he describes the dream that he has about our daughter jumping on the bed with us. It's pretty amazing. And I'm awfully excited.
So, thank you to everyone for the thoughts, prayers, and well-wishes. We love you an awful lot. And our little baby is already the most loved baby in the world because of you.
Monday, November 25, 2013
Friday, June 14, 2013
Filthy Rich
These last few weeks have been a whirlwind. Brian and I sold a car, bought a car, left school for two weeks, spent a week in Folsom, spent a week in Disneyland with both our families, and returned to the lovely Rexburg, Idaho. As you can imagine, some of these activities could possibly leave us with a little less money than we had before.
Ever since we returned to Idaho, we've had to round up all of the expenses and face the truth. That truth is... my husband and I are both full-time students working part-time hourly jobs to pay for two cars, gas, an apartment, utilities, car insurance, cable, internet, a dog, food, surgery bills, and school. Sometimes it's tough to think of how much money was in our bank account the week after we got married and deposited all of our gifts and then look at that account now. Being my father's daughter, I tend to stress out about what we could have done without, what we should do without in the future, what mistakes we are making every day, etc. Let me tell you, that is exhausting.
At least, it's exhausting until I come home from grocery shopping the sales out of the store. And I notice something. I have more than a quarter tank of gas in my car. My first-semester American Foundations teacher stops me as I'm leaving because he remembers my name and wants to know how I'm doing. My dog runs out of the apartment, tail wagging, tongue flapping, as soon as I open the door because he is so excited to see me. My cabinets are brimming full of food. My refrigerator has fresh milk, eggs, and cheese. My freezer has the top tier of my wedding cake, anxiously waiting to be eaten in two and a half months. My husband left his sweaty work-out clothes on the ground and his two knee surgeries this year have been more than successful. I found out today that I'm receiving financial aid that will pay my entire tuition. My mom is calling me with great stories about being a doula.
And I realized. What more can I ask for? In those moments that I get stressed out, Brian says something to me that really helps calm me down. He reminds me that "We will never have enough money." But I don't have a doubt that will we always be rich.
Ever since we returned to Idaho, we've had to round up all of the expenses and face the truth. That truth is... my husband and I are both full-time students working part-time hourly jobs to pay for two cars, gas, an apartment, utilities, car insurance, cable, internet, a dog, food, surgery bills, and school. Sometimes it's tough to think of how much money was in our bank account the week after we got married and deposited all of our gifts and then look at that account now. Being my father's daughter, I tend to stress out about what we could have done without, what we should do without in the future, what mistakes we are making every day, etc. Let me tell you, that is exhausting.
At least, it's exhausting until I come home from grocery shopping the sales out of the store. And I notice something. I have more than a quarter tank of gas in my car. My first-semester American Foundations teacher stops me as I'm leaving because he remembers my name and wants to know how I'm doing. My dog runs out of the apartment, tail wagging, tongue flapping, as soon as I open the door because he is so excited to see me. My cabinets are brimming full of food. My refrigerator has fresh milk, eggs, and cheese. My freezer has the top tier of my wedding cake, anxiously waiting to be eaten in two and a half months. My husband left his sweaty work-out clothes on the ground and his two knee surgeries this year have been more than successful. I found out today that I'm receiving financial aid that will pay my entire tuition. My mom is calling me with great stories about being a doula.
And I realized. What more can I ask for? In those moments that I get stressed out, Brian says something to me that really helps calm me down. He reminds me that "We will never have enough money." But I don't have a doubt that will we always be rich.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Reflection
I really appreciate Sundays and the opportunities I get to reflect on the journeys life has blessed me with thus far. A year ago today I met the most amazing young women that I would eventually ask to marry me and in that moment my life would be complete with her by my side. Life feels so much more meaningful and special with her in my life. I find myself acting more for her and thinking more about her than I do about my own self. From the day that Maddi came into my life, all the thoughts of being mediocre and not striving for more have gone out the window. A good, faithful, strong, and independent woman does not just come along and wait for you to have success, you have to strive and work hard for it so you show her that you are actually worth something and you have dreams and aspirations you are striving to achieve. April 14, 2012 my world was turned upside down and I am positive that this fairytale that I am living will just keep getting better and better!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
A Love That Teaches
My mom and sister came to visit this weekend and we had so much fun. I cannot be thankful enough for having a husband who loves my family so easily. The day he met my parents, Tori, or Isaac was the day he proposed to me, and since then, I have never once had to sneak a listen on a conversation or ask my sister if she likes him. Tori and Chase (Brian's brother) will be joining us in Rexburg in September and we are beyond excited. Brian is convinced that their favorite place to hang out on the weekends will be with this old, married couple (us). So we'll see how that goes.
A lot of things have really come together for me in the last few days. From the Supreme Court madness to marital phases to swim teams. And I realized the thing I'm supposed to learn from all of this (if not all of life). Above anything in the world, we need to be Christ-like. Anything can be solved using basic characteristics of love, patience, and forgiveness.
Supreme Court: All I have to say is that we need to love all people. We live in a world where everyone has their own agency to choose what they will do according to the knowledge they have. My knowledge helps me to know that marriage, ordained of God, is something that we will be able to enjoy in the next life and this will bring us more happiness than we could ever imagine. The people who don't understand this need love, knowledge, and support to make the choices that will make them eternally happy. I don't think this should be an issue brought to the government because it is such a personal decision. I just wish that everyone would be more open-minded about helping others become happy forever, not bringing them down temporarily. My religion has a strong opinion similar to mine on this, which many people misconstrue.
Marital Phases: Marriage has taught me oh, so much. However, the thing I appreciate the most right now is how important love is above everything. It's important that we work out problems. But, when these problems come up at 1:00 am when both people just want to sleep, nothing good is going to come of that and we must have the patience to put that off. Most often, this process teaches how little of a problem it actually is. I find so many people impatiently awaiting perfection, when having patience with imperfection teaches you so much more.
Swim Teams: My husband has been the coach of a swim team here on campus this semester. This last week, they have had many ethical decisions arise about the championship meet. All I can say is, I'm so proud of my husband for making the difficult, but right choice in his races. He was able to teach his team that there are things more important than winning in life. I love that man and the integrity he has to stand up for absolutely anyone to absolutely anyone.
I am so lucky to have Brian, who I can discuss any of these issues with and we both think so differently that we can learn a lot from each other, but so similarly that it doesn't end in an argument every time.
A lot of things have really come together for me in the last few days. From the Supreme Court madness to marital phases to swim teams. And I realized the thing I'm supposed to learn from all of this (if not all of life). Above anything in the world, we need to be Christ-like. Anything can be solved using basic characteristics of love, patience, and forgiveness.
Supreme Court: All I have to say is that we need to love all people. We live in a world where everyone has their own agency to choose what they will do according to the knowledge they have. My knowledge helps me to know that marriage, ordained of God, is something that we will be able to enjoy in the next life and this will bring us more happiness than we could ever imagine. The people who don't understand this need love, knowledge, and support to make the choices that will make them eternally happy. I don't think this should be an issue brought to the government because it is such a personal decision. I just wish that everyone would be more open-minded about helping others become happy forever, not bringing them down temporarily. My religion has a strong opinion similar to mine on this, which many people misconstrue.
Marital Phases: Marriage has taught me oh, so much. However, the thing I appreciate the most right now is how important love is above everything. It's important that we work out problems. But, when these problems come up at 1:00 am when both people just want to sleep, nothing good is going to come of that and we must have the patience to put that off. Most often, this process teaches how little of a problem it actually is. I find so many people impatiently awaiting perfection, when having patience with imperfection teaches you so much more.
Swim Teams: My husband has been the coach of a swim team here on campus this semester. This last week, they have had many ethical decisions arise about the championship meet. All I can say is, I'm so proud of my husband for making the difficult, but right choice in his races. He was able to teach his team that there are things more important than winning in life. I love that man and the integrity he has to stand up for absolutely anyone to absolutely anyone.
I am so lucky to have Brian, who I can discuss any of these issues with and we both think so differently that we can learn a lot from each other, but so similarly that it doesn't end in an argument every time.
Friday, March 22, 2013
I'm That Girl
Well, I walk away for a second and I've been married for seven months instead of seven weeks. Life moves so fast sometimes, it's scary! The past few months have been great for us. We found the perfect little apartment where we'l stay until we leave Rexburg, we got a new little addition to our family, and we both have amazing new jobs (as for the addition, his name is Toby and he's a dog and the only addition we plan for a bit).
I haven't been regularly blogging for a little over a year now (see my Disney Adventure Blog Here) and I really miss it! Brian knows how much and has been trying to get me to get back into the swing of things, and I think he finally convinced me.
For my whole life, and I think every little girl is the same way, I always listened to those love songs and longed for the day when someone would feel that way about me. I've tried tricking myself into feeling that way, but I finally had the feeling of subject-of-the-song-importance yesterday for the first time. Brian got Justin Timberlake's new album and we were having a listening party as we cleaned the house. At one point, we were sitting in the living room and this song came on. It's called That Girl. And Brian loved it. And I loved it. And Brian raved about it. And all I could do was smile. Because Brian makes me feel that special and important. And I love it.
I haven't been regularly blogging for a little over a year now (see my Disney Adventure Blog Here) and I really miss it! Brian knows how much and has been trying to get me to get back into the swing of things, and I think he finally convinced me.
For my whole life, and I think every little girl is the same way, I always listened to those love songs and longed for the day when someone would feel that way about me. I've tried tricking myself into feeling that way, but I finally had the feeling of subject-of-the-song-importance yesterday for the first time. Brian got Justin Timberlake's new album and we were having a listening party as we cleaned the house. At one point, we were sitting in the living room and this song came on. It's called That Girl. And Brian loved it. And I loved it. And Brian raved about it. And all I could do was smile. Because Brian makes me feel that special and important. And I love it.
Monday, October 22, 2012
The Things Marriage Teaches You...
... at least after the first 7 weeks of being married.
1. You become musically old and outdated really fast. I haven't been on iTunes once, I listen to one Pandora station at work every day, and I haven't listened to my iPod. In fact, I haven't seem my iPod or ear buds since the big day. I've heard several song references that I've actually had to look up or ask my husband about.
2. It's not about you anymore. But, seriously. I know everyone says that, but it's impossible to understand until you actually get married. I was used to deciding what to do with my money, what I got from the grocery store, and what I did every day on my own without speaking to anyone about it. Now, all of those things and so many more must be discussed with, and I believe sometimes based on, the other person in your life. It's the most difficult adjustment to get used to, but it is absolutely the most rewarding to have one person in your life that you want to be (and can greatly help to be) happy every single day.
3. It's not all up to you anymore. Being selfless also comes with being a team. I now am able to see it as a wonderful thing that I don't have to decide what to do with our money alone, I have someone else to buy and make food for, and I can make plans with my best friend any day I want! And coming home from work to a freshly-cleaned home, clean dishes, and no dirty laundry is quite nice once in a while.
4. Every baby commercial makes you stop whatever you're doing and smile like an idiot. Even more than before you were married. And then hear, "Don't get any ideas..." from your husband in the other room.
5. It's easier to gain weight. I don't know whether it's the homemade food so often, business of a day that doesn't allow time for the gym, or subconscious knowledge that you're husband is stuck with you, but marriage has something about it that allowed me to easily justify many things I wouldn't do before. However, I'm working hard to disprove the stereotype that every newlywed women cuts her hair and gains weight within the first year.
1. You become musically old and outdated really fast. I haven't been on iTunes once, I listen to one Pandora station at work every day, and I haven't listened to my iPod. In fact, I haven't seem my iPod or ear buds since the big day. I've heard several song references that I've actually had to look up or ask my husband about.
2. It's not about you anymore. But, seriously. I know everyone says that, but it's impossible to understand until you actually get married. I was used to deciding what to do with my money, what I got from the grocery store, and what I did every day on my own without speaking to anyone about it. Now, all of those things and so many more must be discussed with, and I believe sometimes based on, the other person in your life. It's the most difficult adjustment to get used to, but it is absolutely the most rewarding to have one person in your life that you want to be (and can greatly help to be) happy every single day.
3. It's not all up to you anymore. Being selfless also comes with being a team. I now am able to see it as a wonderful thing that I don't have to decide what to do with our money alone, I have someone else to buy and make food for, and I can make plans with my best friend any day I want! And coming home from work to a freshly-cleaned home, clean dishes, and no dirty laundry is quite nice once in a while.
4. Every baby commercial makes you stop whatever you're doing and smile like an idiot. Even more than before you were married. And then hear, "Don't get any ideas..." from your husband in the other room.
5. It's easier to gain weight. I don't know whether it's the homemade food so often, business of a day that doesn't allow time for the gym, or subconscious knowledge that you're husband is stuck with you, but marriage has something about it that allowed me to easily justify many things I wouldn't do before. However, I'm working hard to disprove the stereotype that every newlywed women cuts her hair and gains weight within the first year.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
The Engagement Party
Alright, well this is my first real down time since the proposal! Since Brian popped the question in the middle of the semester, I was stressed out with wedding plans and keeping grades up for another month and a half. From there, we came back to my home in California for a few days, flew to Texas for the wonderful party, Brian and I parted ways for the first time last Wednesday when I flew home to California, I went straight to a family reunion, and now I'm home until the wedding! Life is crazy!
I could write for days and days about everything we've been up to, but in order to avoid that level of boredom, let's just keep this to the Engagement Party in Atascocita, TX.
The party was help on Saturday, July 28th and it was wonderful. First of all, there were so many people who helped in so many ways that we could never thank them all, but we feel so blessed and honored to have such selfless and talented people in our lives! Brian's mom took charge of the whole thing and did a spectacular job.
My family had flown to Texas with me for the party, so they spent Friday night and all day Saturday setting up everything along with several angelic volunteers. Because heavens knows Chase, Tori, and Isaac snuck away every second they could to watch the Olympics. Brian and I weren't allowed to see or know much at all before the event, so we got to relax and run errands for everyone; something I always enjoy, but that Texas heat made it for a sticky adventure.
The night was one to remember. There was an unexpected Disney theme (the topic that took over the first conversation that Brian and I ever had and something that is, and will always be a huge part of our life together), delicious food, talented entertainment, and, most importantly, amazing people.
To everyone that came, everyone that helped with any small part of the night, and everyone that has helped Brian to become the person that he is today, thank you! I feel so welcome to this new Texas family and so blessed to know so many more awesome people.
Enjoy a few pictures from the night!
I could write for days and days about everything we've been up to, but in order to avoid that level of boredom, let's just keep this to the Engagement Party in Atascocita, TX.
The party was help on Saturday, July 28th and it was wonderful. First of all, there were so many people who helped in so many ways that we could never thank them all, but we feel so blessed and honored to have such selfless and talented people in our lives! Brian's mom took charge of the whole thing and did a spectacular job.
My family had flown to Texas with me for the party, so they spent Friday night and all day Saturday setting up everything along with several angelic volunteers. Because heavens knows Chase, Tori, and Isaac snuck away every second they could to watch the Olympics. Brian and I weren't allowed to see or know much at all before the event, so we got to relax and run errands for everyone; something I always enjoy, but that Texas heat made it for a sticky adventure.
The night was one to remember. There was an unexpected Disney theme (the topic that took over the first conversation that Brian and I ever had and something that is, and will always be a huge part of our life together), delicious food, talented entertainment, and, most importantly, amazing people.
To everyone that came, everyone that helped with any small part of the night, and everyone that has helped Brian to become the person that he is today, thank you! I feel so welcome to this new Texas family and so blessed to know so many more awesome people.
Enjoy a few pictures from the night!
The dessert table featuring the beautiful cake made by our moms (and it was very tasty)
Mine and Brian's cute little table
Our families lined up
He always knows where the camera is...
Brian's beautiful grandmother
Aunt Rosa and Uncle Mo
Their voices gave me chills!
Us and dad
The daddy-daughter dance where we tried to keep each other from crying the entire time...
... but they cried
Bibi and Brian dancing
Tori, Isaac, and I
All of Brian's family that was there. It was so great! I almost fit right in, if I do say so myself...
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