hi

I am getting worse...

2012-02-10T10:48:00.000-08:00

That is, at blogging. With new year's goals, I thought I would get better but its been so crazy. Everyone always says that around the holidays is the craziest time of year but I beg to differ. This past month has been insane. Between the countless hours of homework for B, working, and trying to get our China application out, I have had to choose my top priorities.

As for 2012, I am quite excited for it....Some things to look forward too is Wicked this month, moving to China for 9 months, Britton completing all of his classes (no more ~~homework~~), our Europe trip in May, Nathan coming home from his mission, hopefully buying a house (cross your fingers) and summer. Oh wait, its already is ;) or at least feels like it. Where's the cold weather at?

But anyways some goals/projects I've had for this year have already been underway and as for some...I need to get on it.
-Reading a book/week
-Refinishing and painting my new piano (pictures to come soon)
-Weekly date night
-Working out to where I can run a half marathon soon
-Trying new things to cook
-Weekly journal entry
I would say the first three I've been doing good on but I need more time in the day for the others. If only I could sleep less, play more, and not run out of energy. Let me know if you have any tips;)

I do love February and not just for Valentine's Day but it is just a happy month. #EnjoyFebruary!

Jan. 2012

2012-01-14T16:21:00.000-08:00

It has been quite some time since my last post. I think with the holidays, school starting for B, and our 2-year anniversary, my new year's resolution of blogging got kicked to the curb. But as of late, we have been mighty busy. Britton has 21 credits this semester plus an internship at Merrill Lynch (You are probably thinking what kind of wife would let their husband do this)...well actually, I talked him into it. Because it means only one summer class and he is completely done!! Then we can have a carefree, fun time in China and not worry about school. So it'll be a busy semester but it will be worth it in the end. As for me, I may not be quite as busy as B but I busy with everything else. Winter break came and gone and I am still missing it. At least the weather still permits QT hot chocolate, scarves, and an excuse to turn on the heater in the car.

We celebrated our 2-years-of-happy-marriage last weekend. We were able to get a night away as well as making a day-trip up to Sedona. It was a lot of fun but I could kick myself for not charging our camera. These were the only two pictures we got before it went dead. Oh well. At least I got an amazing husband to celebrate it with.

Christmas Faves

2011-12-26T17:30:00.000-08:00

Christmas was grand this year. Here are a few photos that sum up the Christmas fun we had.

Kid's Nativity, aren't they cute?

B opening his new lens...(which were used on the following pics. btw, I am in love!)

Playing pool yet still looking dreamy.

My adorable wannabe baby.

Thanks family for making my Christmas so good. You're the best.

well studied.

2011-12-09T09:43:00.001-08:00

This is what I came home to one night. I came home from our annual girls' Christmas party with pumpkin pie in one hand saying, "I have a surprise for you." When I noticed I wasn't getting the response I was anticipating or actually getting a response at all, I just thought that he was really into studying but no...he was sleeping. Might I add that I have the most studious and adorable husband ever.

Hooray for last week of finals. Finally we can enjoy the wintertime school free!

Tis' the season #2

2011-11-30T06:30:00.001-08:00

Are you excited for Christmas!? I know I am. This will be Christmas #2 for us and I don't know where the year has went. To celebrate the upcoming festivities, this Monday for FHE, we finally put up our little tree and decorated the house. Although I still have some stuff to put up, I love when my house feels all Christmasy. This is always my favorite time of the year. Every night I feel like cuddling on the couch with some hot chocolate and watching Elf over and over again (I am sure Britton is excited about that). Little does he know I bought it last Christmas so we're good to go.

After we were all done decorating, B & I were playing around with our camera and discovered how to make cool shapes with light. It would have seriously been so funny to watch us run back and forth with a 1990's cell phone trying to make shapes. We are stil new at this but Britton's heart is 10x better than my mess of a light. It's pretty hard though, you have to be so still for like 10 seconds. Good thing I have him to teach me all the cool things about photography.

Weekend Bliss

2011-11-21T08:05:00.001-08:00

Now that I am a working girl, I hardly get a 3-day weekend. Not only did I get a 3-day weekend this week but I got Monday off as well!! ( I am gonna pay for this later). Anywho, I have had the best weekend, well minus two doctors appointments but no one is counting that anyways. Highlights included: Saturday morning bike ride with mine truly, Thanksgiving dinner with my family Sunday and his huge family Saturday, and a lazy Sunday night preplanning my Black Friday destinations. It seriously can't get any better.

Life is good. Happy Thanksgiving Week!

Engaged and Underage.

2011-11-11T10:33:00.001-08:00

With all my friend's engaged nowadays, it's fun to think back to two years and 6 days ago when I got engaged [Nov. 5, 2009]. The wedding plans consuming your every thought, constantly thinking and sorting through colors, and finding a dress. Best advice: Take advantage of the time but don't let it be all business, have fun! It was fun but what was even more worth it was the ending result...marrying him.....

(Favorite pic of the day we got married)

And this is how it was when we were engaged....

We were a little ugly.

We kissed a little.

And we danced a lot.

Happy Veterns Day and day-off from work!

Goodbye October, Hello November

2011-11-01T14:28:00.000-07:00

October has been good to me. I visited North Carolina, celebrated my birthday, went to the Mason Jennings Concert, and Halloweened it up.

The Highlights:
Mason Jennings at his finest. He was so good live!

Another one was Halloween. It was pretty fun this year. Unfortunately we didn't get a single picture of our costumes but I was a 50's house wife and Britton was a 50's businessman. He looked super fly with his hair slicked to the side and suspenders. Maybe I should have been born in that era? :)

The Lowlights:
We didn't carve a single pumpkin this year...what is wrong with us?

I was a little disappointed with myself for my birthday this year because I had this grand idea (that I got from Pinterest) to do "23 (I turned 23) Little Random Acts of Kindness" and I only got half way through. My new tradition is to do this every year and eventually have my kids help me with it. Hopefully then I will actually complete it. This is what I accomplished:

Made breakfast for my husband.
Took Britton to school so he didn't have to ride his bike.
Offered a stranger a ride to school.
Run an errand for someone.
Emailed grandma to let her know I love her.
Packed Britton a lunch with a sweet note inside.
Contacted a family member I haven't talked to in awhile.
Held the door open for everyone I saw.
Picked up Britton from school.
Called parents to tell them how much I love them.
Did Temple work for 5 individuals (this counts for 11-15)

Too bad I didn't turn 15 this year or I would have been right on the money! Oh well, there's always room for improvement.

Bye October, thanks for being so good to me.

Hello November, I know you will.

Day date in NC

2011-10-26T06:55:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a real long and workfull 10 tens day in North Carolina. The branch I was training the tellers at was in a little town called Rocky Mount and let me tell you, there was nothing to it so I don't have any pictures of it. But we did get one day off and I took full advantage of it. I traveled 2 1/2 hours to what is called The Outer Banks and had a good day by the ocean. My overall goal was to find a lighthouse and I was excited when I finally did.....

Spent the morning walking around the town of Manteo. Beautiful little place and quite historical actually. The first "American" child was born in this quaint little town as well as Queen Elizabeth II settling here.

Then I went house shopping....This may not sound fun to some but I am obsessed with the homes on the East Coast. I found far too many houses and I couldn't take pictures of all of them but here are a few drivebys that I loved. Can you imagine looking out your window and seeing someone taking pictures of your house? Kinda creepy but it was way worth it for future inspiration.

It was like I was pinning these but in person:)

Why can't AZ homes have this much character? :(

During the date, I took myself out for a nice lunch (and ice cream of course), stopped by the outlet malls, and enjoyed what fall actually looked like. Overall, I would say it was a successful date.

I was glad I got to experience North Carolina. I used to have a goal of visiting all 50 states so now I can cross it off my list but next time, I think I will bring Britton. Two is always better than one.

Looking forward too,

2011-10-20T19:22:00.000-07:00

It seems like things are only getting better from here... Firstly, I come home to a wonderful husband in two days from being in North Carolina (pictures soon) Might I add that it has been far too long since I've had a home-cooked meal...10 days of restaurant eating ain't my thing. Naked Juice has gotten me through the past week. Nextly, scarf and hot chocolate weather is right around the corner and I couldn't be more excited about bustin' out the pea coats and boots. -Just a side note, one of autumn/winter's best things to do for lunch is to get a warm bowl of potato cream cheese soup from Wildflower and eat in the park..oooww can't wait! And lastly, I am getting real excited for these upcoming events.....

Halloween! There is just something about dressing up and craving a pumpkin that makes me look forward to it every year. It will be difficult to outdo our "Boo UofA" pumpkin from last year but I have some good ideas up my sleeve.

Then there's Christmas! Our 2nd Christmas is almost here! I like how our house looks exactly the same in this picture as it does almost a year later:) But I can't wait, especially since I know one of my presents already............

Summer 2012. To be continued.

Dear Blog,

2011-09-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

I think I've been feelin' a little bit like this as of late......

Which shouldn't be the case since we just got back from a weekend trip up to the Thomas family reunion (sad, didn't take one picture all weekend, I am horrible). Hopefully after I start back up at the Fargo (yes. I have a degree that has nothing to do with where I work. I am one of those people) I won't have as much time on my hands and will be wishing less about where to go but thinking a little bit more like this......

I think the real trick is no school. I mean for the husband that is. All he does is study study, work, study some more. BUT I know we will be blessed in the end. So live it up today and don't wish away your days waiting and blogging.

JKing about the blogging part;)

Close but not enough...well for the other guys

2011-09-10T10:37:00.000-07:00

It was the first sold out, "black-out" game that ASU has had for years. Britton has been talking about it all week long and actually got me pretty excited about it too. We got our black on, had a BBQ with some friends before the game, and enjoyed every second of it. I surprise myself when I get really into the games and this was one of those times. Since I've known Britton, I think I finally understand the football after countless games of explaining everything to me. Of course it only took seven years!

B started to get nervous for awhile. This is his intense face (he's really into it) but I told him when we're eighty, I don't know if I will still let him go to the games because he'll probably have a heart attack right there in the stands when the game gets intense...we'll see how it goes.

My happy husband after the big win.

We beat Missouri, a ranked team, by one touchdown in over-time and I sure was happy because my man was so happy. The weather was beautiful, it rained, it was windy, it was great. I like when the simple things in life make you happy.

Age: nothing but a number.

2011-08-23T20:35:00.000-07:00

We partied it up this weekend at Anita's 80th birthday bash. I wanted to recap the highlight of the night, which was definitely when Britton got up and shaked it for us in a grass skirt. It was seriously hilarious and I thought that one of my grandma's friends was going to have a heart attack from laughing so hard. Shannon and I followed shortly, completely against our will but we tried to be good sports. And finally, the best was saved for last, when Anita got up and did her thing with the Hawaiian fellows. I think it would be accurate to say that she enjoyed herself.

The finals.

2011-08-22T11:17:00.000-07:00

I've been home for just about a week now and it's crazy how time flies, yet it feels like it was weeks ago that I was worry-free, not looking for a job, and livin' up my last few weeks on the island. These pictures sum up our last few weeks in Taiwan, enjoy!

On our way to the beach, we took a day-trip down about 4 hours down the east coast and of course found the best beach our last weekend!

It was kind-of-ironic, we saw some people from our ward and they let us borrow some boogie boards so we took advantage of the tiny waves that Taiwan had to offer. Seriously, smalled waves ever, you'd think an island would have more to offer.

Our last week, we went with Britton's lao shi (teacher) and her family to see her Buddhist temple. It had a beautiful garden and was green everywhere!

This is the Buddha of babies. She kept trying to get me to rub it, which means....bring on the babies. But I decided just to point at it instead;)

Dinner with an investigator of B's while on the mish. He is the nicest guy.

My last day of school. It was kind of bittersweet because I don't know the next time I will be in a classroom. I don't know why I have such an attachment to school. Help me!

Bowling with the Lin family. As you can tell, we went to the beach that day and all got burnt to a crisp. Lets just say, the flight wasn't the funnest home.

Jimmy Tai. A good friend of B's came over our last night to keep us company as we packed and got ready to go.

As for now, life is still quite simple. I feel like a stay-at-home mom without any kids. I need a job pronto. I've never had a full-time job in my life but I am actually looking forward to it. Since China is in the distant future, it'll be fun to be busy until then. Well have a good day and farwell Taiwan.

America vs. Taiwan

2011-08-10T02:54:00.000-07:00

It's strange that the past 2.5 months are already over. It seems as if it was yesterday that I was just beginning on the island...I was worrying about the food, dying of sweating to death, and not understanding a word of Chinese. Now, I am actually scrambling to eat all the food I will miss in the next four days, hardly noticing the heat, and can actually understand what is going on around me. It's somewhat bittersweet. I will miss this place but I am ready to come home. I am excited though to be back in my comfortable bed (we sleep on springs here) and back to my soul food! Also, I will finally admit that Taiwan does got the upper hand on a few things when it comes in comparison with Italy...such as the shuiguo (fruit), the inexpensiveness of everything, and the people. Britton will be pleased with this post:)

As for now, I got four days left and I need to be taking a lot more pictures... we went to the best beach yesterday so pictures will soon to come.

Jiufen "Joe-Fun" was fun.

2011-08-02T04:48:00.000-07:00

Another beautiful place we visited in Taiwan this weekend, Jiufen. I think I am becoming numb to the greenery and will be shocked when I come home to the desert. Things have been good in Taiwan, the countdown is on and we have less than two weeks left. I have mixed feelings about returning home. I am excited to be back in my own bed with American food not far from reach but I will miss a lot about this little island. I will miss the worry-free life I've been living the past 2.5 months. I will miss their AMAZING fruit! I will miss the people. But enough about that, lets talk about the weekend....

We went to a little town on the top of a hill called Jiufen. It took an hour bus ride but it had quite the view. But they did lack one thing: food. We got there starving but the only food in sight are below. I think you can feel my pain. There was no way I was eating squid on a stick, stinky tofu, or unflavored snails. We did find some cool hidden spots like a little stairway that lead to a different part of town. After we got back home, we hit up a brick oven pizza place and it was just what I needed. I have been trying to limit the amount of American food I eat because I want to be as Taiwanese as possible in these last weeks but sometimes I give in. One thing I am looking forward too is authentic mexican food!

So I have this idea, let me know what you think......One of Taiwan's delicacies is stinky tofu. I will dedicate a whole post to it after I get a picture but anways, it smells really bad. When I say really bad, I mean you want to die when you smell it. I haven't gotten used to it but it seems to find me whenever we go to the night markets or even when we are walking down the street. There are no words to describe its horrendous smell but I want to share it with all of you. My plan is to bring some home so then everyone can understand what I mean when I say it's stinky tofu. I need ideas as to how I can bring it home without getting everything I own smelling like it too. Does anyone know if there is tupperware that is completely airtight, where no smells can leak out. Let me know if you do.

Enjoy the pictures. I am having fun.

Not all school.

2011-07-24T07:52:00.000-07:00

It has been some time since I have last posted

and I am paying for it now... We've had quite

the adventures as of late so I hope that I can

share it with ya. A few weeks ago, we made our

way to Danshui Fisherman's Wharf. Not only did

it have the best weather I've felt all summer

long (compliments of the ocean wind) but it

was a quaint harbor. Next in line of events,

was Taiwan's National Palace Museum. Sounds

intriguing right? We thought the same thing

until we share our fair share of Chinese scrolls

and eating utensils. It was a perfect thing to

do on a rainy day. We had about a week of non

stop rain. I'd like it if it was acid rain!

For real! Google it.

Next, we checked out some Buddah Temples. They were all very Chinese-y bit it was actually pretty interesting to see how they worship. At least once a week, you will see them burning fake money in a can to send up to their ancestors.

I am excited to say that I  finally went shopping for the first time since I've been here. I love how easy it is to bargain. While we were shopping around the night market, it was finally time to try my first night market food. It was a big deal if you show the

food. It is pretty daring! I had to take a picture of Britton buying it and me trying it. Let's just say that I only took one bite.

This weekend, we took a trip to Taicheng to visit a missionary, George Lin, that Britton and Chris served w/. We did an all-day trip (Literally all-day, from 5AM to Midnight)to visit a place called Sun moon lake. Although hot, it was really pretty. It was funny though because it is such a different culture here. In America, if there's a lake close by,it is definitely used for recreational purposes. As for Taiwan, you will get fined if you go swimming, it is more just to look at. And when I say fined, I mean 2000 bones USD! The trip was also very educational as well. Now we know how to make honey and take pictures of peacocks. The Lin Family was so nice to make us dinner and it was seriously the best Taiwanese food I have had so far. Britton and Chris thought they were kings or something? Not surprising!

I will blog more frequent because our time is running short. I can't believe we only have three more weeks left on this beautiful island. I need to make sure to live it up as well as blog it up too:)I will miss thislittle island. It's been good to us!

As of late, we've been...

2011-07-10T04:42:00.000-07:00

Taking bike rides to beautiful parts of the island.

BBQing.

Exploring the endless possibilities of the Canon Rebel.

Growing mustaches. Only one of us though;)

being bookworms.

I'm sad to say I've finished the last of the Hunger Games series.

I may have shed a tear and been a little addicted.

taking advantage of Taiwan's gem: fruit.

Being food connoisseurs and trying new things,

yet, still not brave enough to try these.

Getting our peach on while visiting the town of Yingge.

Kissing in the rain.

Hanging out with new members B taught.

Realizing that Taiwan needs to work on name

branding... who knows, it could be a hit in the states.

Trying our hand at surfing.

2011-07-04T17:29:00.000-07:00

I wanted to wish everyone a happy 4th of July from Taiwan, we're celebrating it over here but going over to our Canadian bishop's house for a BBQ. That's as close we can get to American. haha Also, I wanna give my wonderful mother a birthday shout out...her birthday was on the 2nd of July.

Happy Birthday America and my mama!

The never-ending education.

2011-06-30T16:03:00.000-07:00

Surprised? If I had the choice I would be a student for life. I am starting today at the MTC! No, not that one.... it's a program at the Taiwan National Normal University. I will going to school Monday through Friday three hours a day. And guess what I will be learning? Chinese!!! It's about time and Britton seems to be more excited about it than I am.

24: The birthday age in Taiwanese

2011-06-27T19:32:00.000-07:00

Britton, my amazing husband, was born 23 years ago on June 18, 1988. That is in America. Here in Taiwan, he is a year older and wiser. Yet he is still just as young at heart. The Taiwanese consider you one-year-old when you are born. They start counting when you are conceived. Strange right? I thought I would clear that up incase anyone was wondering why the birthday cake said “24” instead of his rightful age of “23”. I admit at first I thought it was because they ran out of 3’s at the store

Britton’s birthday was an all day event. The generous Lin Family took the four of us up to Wui Lei to their Hot Spring Resort. We went on a relaxing hike that had a ton of little waterfalls. Afterwards, we went to lunch, enjoyed the hot springs, had some birthday cake, and karaoke! It would be an understatement to say that the Taiwanese like karaoke. It is so adorable how they love to sing the worst American songs. But that’s exactly what we did. It was really fun. Afterwards we headed back to the city, went to dinner at a really good Taiwanese restaurant by the temple, and ended the night with a movie. And when I say movie, I mean American movie. I was really glad!

Happy Happy Birthday Britton. You are pretty fly. I am glad you are with me for a long long time.

A 360 Degree Adventure

2011-06-21T22:08:00.000-07:00

This post is long overdue since this excursion happened a little over a week ago but I thought I’d share how amazing our adventure was around the island. I am a planner. I like to plan out my trips months ahead of time (something to look forward too right?), I never leave the house without my planner, and I know exactly what lies ahead in every activity but this was far from my usual planned out trips. Britton and Chris only had a week and a half before school started so we talked about going around the island but we had no idea how and when. On Friday morning at 10:30am we still had no idea what we were doing but by 11:00am, with only 5 minutes, we packed our bags for a trip we have no idea how long it’d take. We borrowed a car from the Lin family and we were on our way. It was seriously so spontaneous. We got directions on the road, borrowed some camping stuff from a member, and we were driving east still not knowing where we’d sleep or ever go for that matter.

But it all worked out and it was seriously a blast. We started our 4-day-trip hiking the Taroka Gorge. It was beautiful with the most refreshing water. Although there were signs clearly stating that no swimming was allowed, that didn’t stop the boys. We sneakily hiked down to the water and the rest was history. The best part was the Taiwanese would stop and take pictures below of us swimming. They probably thought we were crazy Americans. I don’t blame em’. Also, something worth mentioning was on the hike I saw the biggest snake ever! It was seriously freaky. We avoided it though but I was still keeping my eye out for it.

That night we hit up the hot springs in Rei Shuie and camped Taiwanese style. They don’t camp on the ground but instead in little huts that have electricity. Not too shabby. What came to be the craziest part of the trip was that night in the camp ground. As we were about to go to sleep, the police showed up on the campgrounds. Not only did we not pay because we got there after the place closed but we were driving without an international license. Can you say jail? Well maybe…As the police went from tent to tent checking to make sure everyone paid, we all laid there, stiff as a board, pretending to be asleep. It was no surprise that Britton and Chris actually did fall asleep while Tori and I were wide-awake trying to look as natural as possible. Luckily, the police skipped our tent while us girls laid awake for well over an hour. Let’s just say it wasn’t the best night of sleep.

Next day we were on our way to Kenting (A city on the most southern tip of Taiwan that is not only the most beautiful part of the island but the most “beachy”). We enjoyed quick stops in small little towns with the cutest little mei mei’s ever (That’s what they call little girls, translated as ‘little sister’) and the beauty of the landscape. We got lost a few times but it finally got to Kenting. We found a very clean hostel and went to the beach. It was fun despite the fact that I got nailed a few times by their huge waves but it was worth it. We went to the night market that night and headed back the next day on the west coast.

Highlights of the trip include:

-Seeing monkeys in the wild on the side of the road

-Driving along the beautiful east coast and getting a good view of the clear blue water.

-Mango smoothies

- Not planning a single thing and living it up!

It is exciting to say that we finally got to see the entire island and I am falling more and more in love with Taiwan each day.

Taiwan at its finest.

2011-06-08T22:25:00.000-07:00

Week one. There is so much to talk about that I don’t even know where to begin. I guess that’s what I get for not blogging since I’ve been here. It has been a crazy week filled with new smells -good and bad, new and unique food, green landscape at every turn, enough humidity to make you want to pass out, and the best fruit I have ever had. The best part about it is that it’s been sunny everyday we’ve been here. I am even sunburned. I think I had this fear before we came that it was going to be raining (the humid kind) 24/7 all summer long but it hasn’t… and it’s been great thus far.The 14-hour flight was a bit of a challenge since B and I both took sleeping pills but couldn’t fall asleep, it was miserable… we were like zombies. But when we got to Taiwan, we checked into our amazing apartment, which seems as if it was a 4 star hotel with all of its cool amenities. We have a gym, rooftop garden with an amazing view, natural springs spas, bike rentals, and a swimming pool! A swimming pool might be common to Arizonans but people will buy an apartment here just to use the pool. It’s pretty humid here, I don’t blame em’.

All of our days here so far have seemed like a blur because they have been jammed packed with going around Taipei and doing things that Britton did on his mission. The other day we biked to a city called Dan Shui and it was the cutest town ever! I loved it. We got mango smoothies, walked around, and looked around at some antique shops. Another day, the four of us headed to the BEACH! Yes, they have a beach here. It was perfect for the weather but it was about a 45 min. bus ride away so I don’t know how often we will go but that is how I got sun burnt. I didn’t think to pack sunscreen when going to Taiwan but I am sure my sister-in-laws won’t be surprised! Yesterday, we had a super fun day at the Taipei Zoo. The Phoenix Zoo got nothing on it! Not only did admission cost us a whopping 2 bucks but also it was so much better! Not only were we in the middle of a jungle but the animals that were active and very amusing. Afterwards we took a “gondola”, otherwise known as a tram that went up to a small town on top of a hillside/mountain. We got a good view of the city as well as Taipei 101, which used to be the tallest building in the world.

Here are some pictures of what we have been up to starting with our little apartment...

A few insights so far about Taiwan:

The Taiwanese are the kindest people ever. They are so polite and giving, no wonder Britton feel in love with these people on his mission.

America is a rip off. Although I love USA with all my heart, food and most of everything else is so cheap here. We can eat dinner for the both of us for under $4. The only thing in America for that price is fast food. No thank you. We went to a restaurant the other night and I caught myself saying that our meal was dang expensive when the total came out to $5. I am a changed woman.

The Humidity. That has been my numero uno struggle. Everyone who knows me knows I hate to be hot! With a high of 95 degrees and 73% humidity, it will make me think twice before ever moving to the south just so I can have a house with a wrap-around-porch.

The Taiwanese are crazy drivers. We thought about getting scooters while we are here but I am not too sure if I want to risk my life. It is scooters galore on the streets and sometimes they will even drive in the sidewalks if they’re trying to get around others. We’ve had a few near death experiences so far so I may just want to stick to bikes. Better safe than sorry right?

Graduation has come and gone.

2011-05-21T15:03:00.000-07:00

ASU Graduation was bittersweet.

It was sweet in the fact that I am the first Sproul to graduate in the past three generations and that I have finally accomplished a degree. It was bitter because it was a lonnggg ceremony and that I have no idea what I will do in PR but it'll come to me:)

The week before my graduation, I was a little depressed and somewhat sad that I was all finished with school but now that it has come and gone, I am quite excited for the future. I am excited to live abroad, to find a full-time job (excited may not be the best word choice), and to finally have time to do other things with my time besides homework. Some of those include: reading not a textbook, improve my cooking skills, and maybe find a new show to watch. I miss Lost and OTH...

Don't have kids to blog about? Borrow others.

2011-04-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

Aunt Heather thinks baby Brigg is adorable? I stole this picture from Shannon's blog. This is one of my favorite pictures of him.

The city of dreams.

2011-04-13T19:42:00.000-07:00

Things have been quite busy lately. I know I left you hanging with very little details about this summer but I think it is because I haven't figured them all out yet. School has been so busy as of late that I haven't had time to think about much else. First on my list is graduation!!! And then if I survive that, next is Taiwan. Britton and I were talking tonight that it hasn't hit us quite yet that we are moving to Taipei, Taiwan for 2 1/2 months. It wasn't until last weekend that I finally realized what I was getting myself into. We were traveling the streets of Taiwan, via Google maps, with our good friends Chris and Tori (who are going with us!) and I realized I have a major problem. I don't know chinese. I know this is something I should have known beforehand but I was hoping that they would have both chinese and english signs but it doesn't look that way.

I have three options to choose from. 1. Have a month-long study sesh asap and hope that something sticks. 2. Rely solely on Britton to get me through every conversation and interaction. or 3. Wander aimlessly with Tori, only eating what we know to be beef. I think I might do all three... What do you think?

I am super excited and blessed to have this opportunity to live abroad. I love this world of ours and love experiencing different cultures. I hear the Taiwanese are the kindest people who are always willing to help you. Plus they think every American looks like a super star so hopefully that will help when it comes to finding my way around. haha It will be a blast.

Post Script: The picture is of the National Taiwan University, where Britton will be studying. And this is where I will be running.

Where too next??

2011-03-23T19:34:00.000-07:00

Taipei, Taiwan!!!

I just got word that I will be spending my two summer months in Taiwan. I am so beyond excited to go visit Britton's mission. Britton got into a summer program at the university there, which means 3 hours of class a day for him (That's nothing) and a summer of fun for me. I will visit the zoo, catch up on my chinese studying, and maybe even complete P90x. There's endless possibilities. I am seeing this as my graduation vacation so I can't wait. Plus it means two more months of not entering into the 'real' world. Can't wait!

AZ's best

2011-03-14T19:33:00.000-07:00

It's spring break in sunny AZ so it is the time to take advantage of the 90 degree weather, yes it was 90 today, and visit AZ's best things to do. Britton and I spent the afternoon with Alyse, Taye, and Cruz at the zoo. I've been having a zoo craving for quite some time now so it was nice to finally go.

Taye's top pick of what to do at the zoo.

We joined her. B looks real excited but he really was, what a faker.

Then: A few weeks ago, we visited one of AZ's most interesting places, The Arizona Science Fair. I think the last time I was there was back in Elementary on a field Trip.

I am not sure what this was but Britton and Sam enjoyed themselves and I thought it looked pretty neat.

On a more serious note. I've been counting my blessings the past few days after hearing about all that is going on in Japan. Events such as this makes you truly appreciate the simple things such as a roof over my head and family. I think we all need to stop every now and then and realized how truly blessed we are. I know we all have difficulties that are sometimes hard to overcome but in the broad scheme of things, we are the lucky ones. Please keep all of those in Japan in your prayers.

Have a nice day.

Love, Heather

Words of Wisdom

2011-03-09T20:38:00.000-08:00

"You know Britton should be a surgeon. He has the intelligence for it," said Anita. "And you know only surgeons have the intelligence to be surgeons."

For all of you who don't know who Anita is, it is my one-of-a-kind grandma.

Busy ain't always a good thing

2011-03-04T10:37:00.000-08:00

Today I've done...

One midterm paper + 5 hours later = done

This weekend....

One more paper I have to write by Monday

Next week:

One exam, one quiz, and yet another paper due

And this is my easy semester.

Then....SPRING BREAK baby! I already have my list of things I want to do. It includes the zoo, sleeping in, lunch dates, staying up late, night away from home, day trips with burger house possibly? And fun. Can't wait!

2011-02-23T19:08:00.000-08:00

Dear blog,

It's been a month now since school has started and it actually hasn't been too bad. I've always heard stories that the last semester is the worst but I've had it pretty good so far. Usually my nights consist of Britton working hard studying and doing homework while I try to persuade him to watch another episode of Modern Family with me. It's pretty bad because sometimes I talk him into it and then I feel guilty in the morning when he has to wake up extra early to do his homework. So no homework here but I think that's about to change. I've been noticing the past few days that slowly my slow-paced semester is picking up! I have it so good right now with work, my internship, and school. Oh well only 2.5 months left right? And then I will be out in the 'real' world supporting my college-bound husband. I have a couple fears about that by the way.

#1. I will get so sick of my job because I've never actually had a 40-hour-a-week job.

#2. I won't be able to skip work like I do with class.

#3. I can't use the excuse "I'm a student" when I go places anymore.

Hopefully my fears will pass and I will find a job I actually enjoy. I am just kidding I am truly blessed to have the job I have. I just have to stay positive;) and if I don't blog for the next few weeks, blame homework.

Love, H. Larson

baba baby!

2011-02-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

Although I have been an aunt for over a year now, I just became the auntie to my side of the family. Introducing the cutie,

Brigg Edward Boyd

He is so cute. He was born on Feb. 10, 2011. He was 7 pounds 14 oz. and I got to witness it all. I must say that at first I was a little worried that it would terrify me enough to never want kids but it actually made me less scared. Although I am not planning on becoming a mama any time soon, it is exciting to think that one day I will. It'll be fun:)

There ain't no party like a one-year-of-marriage party

2011-02-07T19:16:00.000-08:00

Although This post is long over due (seeing how my anniversary was a month ago) I thought I would share the lovely trip we had down in California. We went right after Christmas so Dana Point was still all decked out in the holiday spirit. It was a fun three day weekend. We went to the Newport temple for the first time, we ate a lot, drank martinelli's apple juice, and went to Knotts Berry Farm (my 1st time). It wasn't crowded in the least so we rode every ride a zillion times in like 4 hours. Then we realized we are no longer 16 and packed up and headed back to Dana Point. It was perfect and was actually warmer than AZ at the time.

MMy favorite Picture of him EEver!

Food guru

2011-01-26T19:29:00.000-08:00

So I usually don't blog about food. Lately I haven't really blogged at all but I made this really good meal the other night and I wanted to share it with all of you! Instead I should be sharing pictures from my awesome Cali one-year-of-marriage trip but those will soon come.

We got italian style haibut with green beans wrapped in bacon. The best part of it all is that this is a super healthy meal (minus the bacon, that's for the boy)but it was so good.

I love allrecipes.com, they have the best stuff.

Christmas Faves Twentyten.

2010-12-27T15:59:00.000-08:00

Dear Christmas,

Santa was good to me this year. Or should I say Britton. He not only spoiled me rotten but surprised me (which is a harder task than it seems). In my family we've always known what we get for Christmas and Britton was determined to surprise me. I would ask him to give me hints every now and then or even figure out where he hides the goodies but he never gave in and I am glad. Our first Christmas was exactly what I thought it'd be, toomuchfunforme!

Here are a few of my favorite things I got this year:

This is cheesy but my husband!

My cute little table that Britton got me. I love it.

My BOSCH from B! Now I have no excuses.

And I can't forgot about my anthro gift card. Now I can have guilt-free shopping at my favorite over-priced cutest clothes ever store!

Thank Christmas for being so good to me, See yea next year.

-H. Larson

Life can't get any better.

2010-12-21T12:00:00.003-08:00

Christmas, no school, a cloudy afternoon and no work. Life is grand right now. I have so much to be grateful for.

Merry CHRISTmas :)

Grateful.

2010-11-28T21:55:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where to begin but this Thanksgiving definitely reminded me of all my many blessings and the things I hold dear to my heart. One being my husband's memory. I won't make this story very long but Britton got a concussion on Thursday and couldn't remember anything for the past year. He didn't remember that his sister was pregnant, he couldn't remember that there was an ASU game this weekened, and the fact that we were married! Sounds funny right? In the moment, it wasn't. It was so scary. He couldn't go to bed so we stayed up pretty late and nothing was coming back to him. He kept repeating the same things over and over and I started getting scared that it was going to be like fifty first dates where I have to remind my husband every morning that he's married but after he finally went to bed that night and woke up in the morning, he started to remember things. It is crazy though how much you rely on Heavenly Father when it comes down to it. You don't realize how much you take for granted like the little everyday things. I am so grateful for my family and for all my temporal and spiritual blessings. I hope that my husband will never lose his memory because I am thankful for it.

It's that time again!

2010-11-28T21:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas is right around the corner! I can't believe this year has gone by so fast. Last Christmas I was planning a wedding, this year I am decorating my own house! It is fun and I can't wait for it. B and I stayed up to 2am decorating. We blasted the Christmas music (we don't have neighbors), got out the very few decorations I bought last year, and made our house feel all holidayish. I love Christmas time, dont you?!

Britton brought this nativity set home from Taiwan.

Whippin' out the Christmas stuff.

Merry Early Christmas!

Thanksgiving

2010-11-23T11:20:00.000-08:00

I always get sentimental around Thanksgiving because I start thinking about all my blessings. Last night right before I went to bed, I was thinking about how cold it is outside (53 degrees) and how so many others have it a lot worse. So I've decided to make a list of just a few things I am grateful for around this Thanksgiving time.

I am THANKFUL for....

1. The gospel.

2. My loving, patient, caring husband. I seriously do not know what I would do without him. I can be such a brat sometimes and he still puts up with me. I am one lucky and grateful girl.

3. The weather. Arizona is in its prime right now and I am loving it.

4. My family.

5. Education. I hate it but love it.

6. The good home that I have. I love my apartment and for all the little things like a shower, heater, stove.

7. For mashed potatoes. Thanksgiving makes me even more grateful for them.

8. For winter vacation. I can't wait until school is over for the semester so I have time to read, unproductive hanging out with my husband, and time to decorate for Christmas.

9. My calling, I am a primary teacher and although it can be tiring at times, I think I like it and I kinda missed it this past month that I wasn't in class.

10. The atonement.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

The 3 stages of photobooth.

2010-11-07T21:09:00.000-08:00

So I stumbled across some photos today that I couldn't help but to share them with the rest of the world. It's probably because I think my husband is so cute. When I asked him about the pictures I found, he said he took them to send to one of his buddies in Taiwan. I was actually kind of jealous that he never e-mails me pictures like this. What the heck! He is going to kill me by the way when he notices I put these up! muhaha

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

It's love for sure.

And it ended with Halloween.

2010-11-01T14:34:00.000-07:00

I've had a fun week. It started off with my birthday celebration and ended with a nice get-together with some of our friends for Halloween. Pictures are reverse in order.

This was a way fun night and I know I know Britton and I are so boring for not dressing up but at least you could call us ASU fans right?

Earlier on St. Hallows Eve, B and I got our ASU game on and cheered on the Sun Devils.

My birthday was on a Tuesday this year and since I don't get home from school til 7:30 and Britton doesn't get home until 9, we decided to celebrate it on Monday. (Ps. I think this picture is adorable)

Us at Thai Basil. Curry and Pad Thai where have you been all my life? If you have never had Thai food, you are missed out! It was so yummy. Thanks Husband.

Once you are married, Birthdays are kinda strange because you share everything, money included. And since I am the banker in the family, I was wondering how B was gonna be sneaky with my b-day gift. Well he definitely surprised me with a weekend get-away to Pine Top. He knows me so well. I don't need fancy jewelery or a coach purse...All I need is camping/roadtrip to cali/or laying on the beach with my hubbie.

Goodbye October, Hello November. The next two months will be so fun. Can't wait!

I am a changed woman.

2010-09-30T14:06:00.000-07:00

So I was going through some of my old posts from ages ago and I found one when I answered all these questions.(April 2009) It was funny to look over it and see how much has changed. I've changed. Things of importance have changed. So as of today, this is what's going on!

5 things I was doing 5 years ago...
1. I was Joyce for Halloween.
2. I was making videos with my girlfriends on the weekends (Harkins Theatre anyone?!)
3. Began dating my future husband (I think we had our first kiss right about now:) )

4. I had short hair.

5. I got my driver's license and picked up my friends for lunch in my grandma's car. Can't get any cooler than that!

5 things on my to-do list today...
1. Start a powerpoint assignment.

2. Go to dinner to a friend's house.

3. Read for school.

4. Remind my husband that he is the best!

5. Ride home on the lightrail.

(These aren't very exciting sorry)

5 things I would do with a million dollars...
1. SAVE IT! (I guess time doesn't change much, haha)
2. Go on a big trip with everyone I love. (That hasn't changed either)

3. Buy two pairs of Toms, one for me and one for B.

4. Buy last minute plane tickets to Conference.

5. I wouldn't mind a summer house in Hawaii.

5 places I have lived...
1. In Flagstaff where I was born

2. Mesa, AZ

3. Tempe, as of now.

4. Florence, Italia

5. 1/8th Californian from age 8-17

5 things i want to be doing in 5 years.
1. I would like a few kids here and there.
2. Be fluent in Mandarin. PLEASE?
3. Happily married.

4. Making fun of my husband because he's still in school and I'm not! hahaha JK

5. Still refusing to buy a cell phone with internet.

Love.

2010-09-25T17:07:00.000-07:00

Coming home to this after a long day of school is almost as good as coming home to him. My husband is the best! Now lets see how long I can keep these things alive, I am going on 4 days!

A quick note...

2010-09-07T16:26:00.000-07:00

My sister finds out what she is having in a week I am excited.
I have 19 credits this semester so I have no time for blogging or actually any social media of that sort. I will try to put up pictures soon but it takes up a lot of time.
Some upcoming happenings I am looking forward to is one of my best friends is due at the end of the month and i am super excited, an upcoming trip to San Fran with the hubbie, and excited for cool weather!
I am graduating in the spring so I almost done!
I went to the Thomas reunion last weekend and it was super fun.
We am going on my 8 months of marriage is two days and it has flown by and I've loved every minute of it.
Life is great. Even though it is consumed by homework.
Sorry if this post have grammatical errors, I am typing this with two minutes to spare before class!
Have a nice day!

Attractively unattractive

2010-08-10T13:46:00.001-07:00

Unattractive...

Attractively unattractive...

It's been a while since our last picture post and let's just say, P90X is not doing us any good. I guess this is what summer does to ya. Too bad it's almost over. But believe it or not, I still love my husband with all my heart, despite his double double chin...

But... good thing this is just an app on the Iphone and not the real thing because i am not the prettiest sight. Now I know that my cheeks always are rosy, no matter how big they are!

2 is better than 1.

2010-07-24T17:19:00.000-07:00

This past week, I feel as though I have been in a long distance relationship. Britton has been salmon fishing in Alaska for over a week now and he comes home tomorrow and I couldn't be more excited. Although, I would never recommend it, distance really does make the heart grow fonder. I've had a good long (hence LONG) week to contemplate on many things and one thing I have come to realize is married life rocks! haha truly.

There is nothing better. Having someone who is your best friend, someone who takes care of you when you are ill, who makes you dinner when you are napping, loves you always. It's great.

After I thought about all of this, it made me miss him even more so I started looking at old pictures and I had to post some. I love that I married someone who I have so many memories with. We will have lots of stories to tell our kids. Like....

Our prom adventures. Everyone says prom is a rite of passage and I am glad I shared it with him.

From the beginning. This pictures is from

my sophomore year of HS.(we are way little)

How he baptized me. Not only was it one of the best

decision I've ever made, I'm glad he did it.

We could tell stories about all of our

crazy roadtrips together. This one was at the

Format concert in Flagstaff.

Dressing up as Chinese people. Can you

guess whose idea was this? :) He is

so fun.

"ONE IS THE LONELIEST NUMBER"

-Beatles

"I AM GLAD THAT TWO IS BETTER THAN ONE"

-Heather

The word is out...

2010-07-14T17:13:00.000-07:00

Here's the facts:

I've been keeping a secret.

But now I can come clean.

My sister is pregnant!!

She is due 02.07.11. (My favorite number)

I am excited.

I think it's going to be a girl.

IT'S ABOUT TIME:)

Waves of illness

2010-06-26T08:21:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this is my third update in the month of June? I am just getting better and better:) Well things are going good. Expect for the fact that I can't stay healthy. It all started a few weeks ago when I had the stomach flu..BAD. Luckily, I got better just in time for BRITTON'S BIRTHDAY! Which was just a week ago. and then this week comes around and I got sick again! This time I think it's strep. All I know is that I sound like a man and it's a work day and I am not at work. I did start taking my vitamins this week though. B and I were at Costco thee other day and I kept trying to talk him into the Flintstone kind cause you know those taste the best but he insisted on the grown-up kind that are gross. Oh well you can't win them all. But I am just hoping the being sick trend doesn't continue to next week cause we're going to CALIFORNIA! Who wants to be sick at the beach?! Not I. I am in need of some relax time. Six days a week can really wear ya out. Besides the illnesses and lack of energy, I am happy. I have the bestest best friend ever who is always there when I am sick to make me feel better! Have a great day and be careful who you share cups with today!

2010-06-16T10:08:00.000-07:00

When we love, we create.
When we love, we work hard.
When we love, we appreciate.
When we love, we grant freedom.
When we love, we understand.
when we love, we renew that which we love.

Summer thus far.

2010-06-15T19:06:00.000-07:00

I am terrible at blogging. You would think that summer would mean more time but that's not always the case. I've been super busy with work and my internship and any free time = B time. We did get a couple fun vacations in beforehand. We went to the Larson family reunion, which was fun and we also went to Cali for a couple of days. I thought I'd share some pictures from our trip to Dana Point, CA. Brit's amazing aunt and uncle let us crash at their beach house and it was so fun and so cute! Here are some pictures of the cute places...

I wanted to steal all her home decor. So cute!

B got to use his chinese when we went to Chinatown. I also got more acquainted with what I am getting myself into in 2 years. (moving there) but I am excited!

It was a fun vacation and its been a fun summer thus far! I am enjoying swimming season, no homework, bbq-ing, watermelon, new learning experiences, and warm summer nights! Life is grand, take notice!

47.5 hours/week

2010-05-10T07:13:00.000-07:00

My summer is all planned out. I am going to be a work-a-holic and not by choice. I got an internship this summer with a public relations agency and I am excited for it but I ain't so excited about working there AND the Fargo this summer. I will be working 3 days at the internship and 3 days as being a teller. If you add up the days and hours, thats 6 days/week and 47.5 hours/week. You are probably wondering when I will be doing all the summer stuff that everyone else will be doing (including my husband)....you know like going to the river or lake, BBQ-ing, swimming, all that good stuff. I am sad to say that I will not be partaking in that. I will be white all summer long for never seeing the sun and will be jealous every time I get a text from my friends asking me to go swimming.

But there comes a point when you just have to realize you are an adult. I still haven't come to that but this summer will be practice for having an adult-job. It'll be fun!

Let's get summer started.

2010-04-22T10:45:00.000-07:00

So it's the end of the semester and it seems like so much is changing/happening. One of my best friends just got married, I will be done with my junior year and only have one year left until I GRADUATE! And I am married. Summer is quickly approaching and I am way excited.

I am excited for the following reasons...

1. Melting ice cream cones

2. Only working part-time and having no homework at night.

3.Getting an internship (still don't know if I have one but if I don't, I won't mind either)

4. Getting a swim suit tan

5. BBQ since this year I will be eating meat, no more veggie burgers.

6. Warm nights (not excited for HOT days)

7. Wearing my rainbows enough to have an excuse to buy another pair.

8. Going on weekend trips with the boy I love. Hopefully camping will be included.

AND I need to take more pictures so then I have fun stuff to post because I've been harassed about my terrible blog posting abilities. I will get better I promise after finals. But things are going great. The weather is beautiful today. I love life. The end.

Don't you just love love?

2010-04-06T15:55:00.001-07:00

I like coming home to this.

A Must Seeee

2010-03-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

I loved it and so will you!

My TV is on the ground.

2010-02-25T11:42:00.000-08:00

I've been married for almost two months! So crazy. It's seriously the best, you get to see the boy you love every single day, morning and night; you can practice your cooking skills and even when you know it's not your finest meal, he compliments it; and you get to decorate your house to make it a home. My house is almost complete. I got my hutch all decorated, my bird towel hanging in the kitchen (It's cuter than it sounds), and too many wedding pictures around that I am even starting to notice...

But there is one thing missing... my TV is lonely. It has been sitting on the ground since we got married and whats a girl to do with no money and no time. I ain't spending the big bucks on a cute tv stand/dresser but I never have the time to go look around for great finds. I admit I get jealous whenever I blog stalk people and I see all the cute treasures they find at local thrift stores. I'm like "what the heck, give me that!"

HOW DO YOU DO IT? So instead of pretending to have the time to look, I thought I would show a cute picture of my dream entertainment center and decided to put an ad up on my blog!

Don't you want it? I do.

This is from Etsy.com which has the world's cutest stuff but not-so price friendly for a newly married college student-couple.

Let me know if you see treasures like this that I could even fix up!

Catch up

2010-02-11T11:49:00.001-08:00

One month ago exactly, I was on my way to Mexico. What a great memory. Now I am sitting here, in Starbucks, drinking chocolate milk and wishing I was there again. I thought it was the perfect time to play catch up on the last month...starting with our honeymoon!!!!..

This was our amazing resort, we took advantage of all the free food we could get our hands on.

My husband:)

He never complains about me being photographer & him being my muse.

Our old school ride there.

We rented a car for a day and went around the island.

Let's backup two days before that...1.9.10

My beautiful bridemaids! Love you girls

The reception was amazing.

Thank you so much everyone that helped.

Especially my sister Shannon.

It was seriously perfect and I loved everything about it!

And I actually remember the night perfectly too!

This past month has been the best and I am so grateful for all of my blessings. Especially my favorite husband, B! He is great. He does the dishes, shares Ms. Mac, keeps me entertained everyday, and is a sweet husband!

In with thee old.

2010-02-09T10:29:00.000-08:00

So I recently promised that I will be putting up my new blog site address, well....I forgot my username/password to the new blog so I will keep using this one for now! So I won't be switching as of now!

Heather Larson here.

2010-01-26T11:04:00.000-08:00

I have been MIA for a while but I just wanted to give an update since I have a second in between my classes. (Yes, I am blogging at school, haha) but life is good! I am officially Heather Larson and I love my husband B. Larson. Our wedding was amazing, we had so much fun in Mexico, and now we are back to school and reality. But I wouldnt have it any other way!

Soon I will be switching my blog to a new one so check back soon and I will put the new address so my long-distance friends (like Kenzi and even Kitty, who lives in a different city than me) can keep in touch.

Love you all! Pictures will come soon!

MARRIED 01.09.10

2010-01-15T09:21:00.000-08:00

They are so cute together!

I Blogger World: This is Heather's sister

Shannon! writing to you today.

Just wanted to get on here while they are on their honeymoon and tell everyone how thankful i am for all the help for heather's reception! It turned out great and I'm so excited for them!

{I wish they would have brought me on their honeymoon.. i want a vacation!haha} Anyways, they will be back from the Mexican island tomorrow and i'm sure she will post pictures!

p.s. heather, please don't get mad that i hacked into your blog and posted :)

A break from busy life.

2009-12-13T14:30:00.000-08:00

Winter break is only two days away, the wedding is in less than a month, and Christmas is in 12 days so it wouldn't be hard to get so caught up in it all. These past few weeks have been super busy/stressful/business-like and I have just come to realize that you just have to find joy in the journey. So B and I decided to go on a date last night to take a break from our crazy lives and we had so much fun. He is so much fun and I am the luckiest girl in the entire world! Our night in a nutshell...

We stopped by the local Sugarbowl and indulged in some guilty pleasures.

Who needs to diet before their wedding..? it's all about the Sundaes! Ps. This picture

was taken moments before I spilled ice cream all over Britton's sweater. I am

the most ungraceful person ever!

Fun Pictures by the LOVE sign in Scottsdale.

Come to find out, the whole point of this picture was to not get

the stairs in it so it looked like B jumped really high but

of course I was oblivious. haha he said "It looks like I am barely

jumping off the ground'' but I can assure you that he jumped

really high:)

I can't wait to get married!

Favor....

2009-12-04T08:11:00.000-08:00

For my online media final this semester, my group had to make a website about the holidays. Our goal is to get as many people to the site as possible and since I refuse to have a facebook, this is my advertising:)

So if anyone has any free time-PLEASE visit my site and leave a comment! Thanks

groups425.personal.asu.edu/holidays/

Blessings

2009-11-27T18:08:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was a few days ago and it made me think about all the things I was thankful for and all the blessings I've been given. And I must say that I am one lucky girl...

-----------------------------------

The blessings of being a member of the Church

of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I don't know what I

would do without the gospel in my life.

I am thankful for my new family. I couldn't have

asked for a better family-in-law:)

I am grateful for the opportunity to get a
good education. And also being a Sun Devil!

I am soo soo thankful for a temple right around the
corner from my home. Some people don't have
the opportunity to go as often as I do so I need
to go a lot more often. I am also thankful that
I will be sealed in the temple for all time and
eternity. I couldn't ask for anythign better.

My girls. I am grateful to have such amazing

friends in my life that are great examples.

Not to mention some of the only people in

the world who share my sense of humor.

Experiences I've had thus far in my life. I am so blessed

to have been able to travel and see places like this

that I love. I love planet earth.

I am eternally grateful for my family. I have the best

family and I love them very much.

Last but definitely not least, I am grateful for the most

important person in my life... my best friend Britton.

I love this boy and so excited to be married to him. I am blessed

in countless ways by our Heavenly Father and he is one

of them.

------------------------------------------------

Count your blessings, we all have them!

01.09.2010

2009-11-12T10:24:00.000-08:00

Yes, tis true. I am officially engaged to my bestest friend in the whole wide world

BRITTON SCOTT LARSON!

He asked me in the cutest way possible by taking me on our first date and asking me where we had our 2nd first kiss! and to top off the night he (along with the help of his amazing family) set up dinner for me! I can't wait to be an addition to the Larson family and am so grateful to have an amazing husband-to-be:)

The date is January 9th so keep the date open and I have no addresses so please leave me yours in the comment box. Thanks so much!

This is why I love Halloween.

2009-10-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

I cannot not post any longer. I finally can post pictures of one of my favorite Halloween activities. It wasn't until last night that I realized how much I love carving pumpkins. And of course we made it into a competition to see who carved the best pumpkin. (Sorry pictures out of order)

He really is a sun devil...

And loves our WINNING pumpkin so much!

Okay, I'm a Sun Devil at heart too.

Our masterpiece. Incase you don't get the pun, it

says 'BOO' U of A. haha Britton's idea of course.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We brought them along.

It's a tough decision..we had to pick out the perfect one.

Some of the competition.

Our pick.

It was a lot of fun and I was surprised at Britton's hidden talent of pumpkin carving. There was an instance where I almost burnt my lips off so stay clear of trying to impress boys with matches. haha But halloween is a week away so you still have time!

2009-10-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

Travel Anyone?

2009-09-30T13:54:00.001-07:00

Come visit my travel website!

and let me know what you think!

hsproul.personal.asu.edu/wordpress

Q&A

2009-09-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Quessstion....

How do you find time to blog during the school semester?

The answer to this is a mystery to me.

2009-09-07T11:38:00.001-07:00

If I can't make it to the end, its because I have a story to write waiting for me but I thought this is what I could do during my break....Here's for Katelyn:)

50 things that make me smile.
1. A weekend trip
2. The Temple
3. Afternoon naps

4. Taking pictures

5. Gelato
6. A really good book
7. Britton larson
8. Outplaying a song you really like

9. A clean car

10. Cuddling
11. Running in the winter time

12. Cracking your toes
13. The Gospel

14. Good quotes

15. Adventures

16. Pedicures
17. The thought of traveling
18. Blonde little kids
19. Turbo Jam workout videos
20. Organizing

21. Weddings
22. No homework for the day
23. Bike Rides
24. Snowboarding
25. Winter attire
26. Love
27. Saving
28. Setting future goals
29. Witty comments
30. Counting your blessings
31. Being logical
32. Finishing a sudoku
33. Disneyland
34. Horseback riding
35. Good hair day
36. Day off of work (today)
37. Spontaneity
38. Trying to keep up
39. Having the best best friend
40. ASU football games
41. Arizona sunsets
42. Italia
43. Old houses
44. Writing
45. Really fun/funny friends
46. The idea of sand volleyball and otterpops in a bucket
47. Getting to see him everyday

48. Learning chinese phrases
49. Getting a good grade
50. Surprises

Who am I kidding...i always finish these. Now back to hw. Have a nice day!

Time to Post.

2009-08-27T19:51:00.000-07:00

Insights...

Have you ever caught yourself talking

to yourself and you see someone else catch

you too. If not, it's awkward.

It's hard for me to believe that at one time

I didn't think AZ was beautiful. Even DT Phoenix is

real pretty.

Being rained on has more ups than downs.

Especially while riding a bike.

Chinese is as hard as it seems!

You know part-time is too much time when the

first dream you remember is about work.

A really good movie out there is Mama Mia.

There's something about that musical.

Everyone looks better in sepia.

Sleep is overrated when Britton Larson is in town.

What is Labor Day anyways?

Let me know if you know:)

To the world you might just be

a bad driver who cuts people off

but in your heart you really didnt

see them and say sorry out-loud

even if they cant hear it.

I heard this saying on a television show today and

I really liked it... "We may not have much, but its more

than we'll ever need." If only that was everyone's motto.

"Fifty years from now, what we become shouldnt surprise

us, because we will have become what we

have set our hearts upon."

-Sheri Amazing Dew

Your opinion...

2009-08-02T18:01:00.000-07:00

I know that all of these dresses are equally amazing but I would like to get your opinion on which one of these you would wear on your big day. WARNING: These pictures are quite ridiculous but good reasons for them...:)

Model #1 (Bride-to-be) modeled a beautiful ballroom gown.

Model #2 was wearing an amazing mermaid style dress.

Lastly Model #3 looked fantastic in a modern aged hippie dress

(one of my personal favorites)

Let me know what you think!

Things are looking up...

2009-07-31T21:56:00.000-07:00

No pictures this time, only a few shout outs.

Time is flying by this summer and it has finally reached the climax

and almost the end.

But sometimes the end is the best part right?

First and foremost, one of my best friends

McKenzi Fack(fat)rell(girl) Inside joke

is soon to be a Mrs. YAY.

And now the festivities are slowly beginning and Im getting excited.

her bridal shower was this week and her bachelorette party is this weekend

which i know will be so much fun. But she is an amazing girl and

I cant wait for this girl to be MARRIED!

Next on the agenda is the homecoming of a special someone.

So crazy that two years have come and gone and how exciting

it will be to see the changes over the past two years.

He speaks chinese, I still speak english and soon sign language.

He loves the gospel, so do I. He eats weird things.

He is still so clean,

I like that about him.

I've learned to work an Ipod instead of him magically

putting music on it.

He'll no longer miss music and

I will no longer write a handwritten letter every Sunday.

Crazy yet very exciting!

Soon school will start and all my fun will be over with and will consume

my life once again but I can't act like I dont secretly enjoy it because

my brain loves to be filled with that sort of thing. And also by that

time, my girl Kat will be back in Sunny Mesa so I think this upcoming

month will be my favorite yet!

Hello August. Bye July.

The Fourth.

2009-07-09T10:58:00.000-07:00

4th of July was a blast. We took a last minute trip to Prescott to get outta the heat and have some small town fun. We started out the trip with lunch at this really yummy lunch in town, walked around town hall, and then went to a carnival where they had fireworks afterwards. We had to ride hay wagons to get out there! Until the fireworks, we entertained ourselves by dancing to the bands, playing games, balancing spoons on our noses, and some of us even took a nap. Prescott is a cute place and I love my girls.

Less than 50 days....

2009-06-23T22:00:00.000-07:00

I have an exam tomorrow. But instead I am updating a really out-of -date blog. I guess my main excuse for that is because my summer hasnt been quite as interesting as Hawaii so I can't really top that. But instead I thought I would write about some things that I am looking forward too. Specifically Elder Larson coming home. I haven't expressed enough on this blog how amazing of a missionary he is so I thought I would post some pictures up. Some of them are kinda funny. It's pretty crazy how fast time is flying. If he didnt extend, he would be coming home in two weeks. CRAZY. But I guess the extra month will give me more time to catch up to his awesomeness.

He is definitely alot braver than me because you would never see me eating a chickens foot but I think it is awesome he is more and more Taiwanese everyday!

He tells me that all the older ladies love him in the ward and think he looks like Elder Bednar but even drunk men on the street tend to like him. He is just a very likeable guy, I don't blame em!

This is his most recent baptism. Aunt Buck. He is an amazing missionary and he will do wonders in his extra 4 weeks there!

And this is the Chen Family, one of Brit's favorites new converts. They are awesome.

Less than 50 days left!

Aloha!

2009-05-24T16:53:00.000-07:00

Hawaii. I am thinking about moving there one day. I loved it and had so much fun there. Here are some pictures of my awesome week there....

This is at Waimea Falls. We went on a little hike/walk to get here and this was one of my favorite things cause I got to paddle around on the lifeguard's surfboard and it was so much fun. I am just glad I didnt have to save anyone's life.

North Shore. This is where we ate breakfast one morning.

This is me, after skydiving. I look really happy to be alive. I can't even describe the feeling but I def. recommend to do it once in your life. i loved it. I am actually surprised my hair didnt get more messed up too.

---------------------------------------------

Pearl Harbor. It was really cool, we got to go visit the USSR Arizona. I think we were the only ones of our age that chose to visit pearl harbor because everyone there were adults or with their family. (we are still kids)

The Hawaii Temple. Kell and I had the opportunity to take a tour around it and it was beautiful. It reminded me alot of the Mesa temple so what is there not to love.

Becs and I at our luau dinner.

Right after we all got lei'd. Before it or not, those flowers lasted a whole week in the fridge because I was determined to wear it home. Sadly on the last day it kinda got ruined on the beach.

The ocean view from our hotel room. We were really lucky.

Just thought I should throw this picture in of Kat dropping us off at the airport because although she wasnt able to come on the trip, she was there in spirit. Miss you girl.

Oahu, honolulu, hawaii. Oh my gosh it was one of the best trips I've taken. I got to spend a week with 3 amazing friends in one of the prettiest places I've ever been too. It was one of those trips where nothing was really planned but it all fell into place. I got to visit all the sights along with checking off one of my life-long goals of SKYDIVING! Mahalo.

2009-04-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

Since I got tagged a while ago and have yet to do it...
I figure this is the perfect time since it is friday night and I have become antisoc and never like to go out anymore, haha

5 things I was doing 5 years ago...
1. I was deciding whether or not to go to Xavier for school (so glad I didn't)
2. I was randomly on the softball team at Brimhall.
3. Getting ready for another summer in Cali (that seems so long ago)

4. I was best friends with K. Fack and spent every second with her. I miss her.

5. straightening my hair everyday cause I hated curly hair. crazy right?

5 things on my to-do list today...
1. Finish my ethics paper

2. Start my history paper..starting to see a trend? haha

3. Workin at the Fargo

4. Read my Sheri Dew book. Love her.

5. Watch the Office. Im in the mood.

5 things I would do with a million dollars...
1. SAVE IT!..jk
2. Go on a big trip with everyone I love.

3. Quit work and devote my time to school.

4. Buy my mom her dream puppy.
5. Pay someone to take all my foreign language courses for me.

5 places I have lived...
1. In Flagstaff where i was born.
2. Mesa, Az at my current residence

3. In Cali every summer since I was in 5th grade

4. Florence, Italia last summer. Oh how I miss it.

5. That's it. I am a home body.

5 things I want to be doing in 5 years...
1. Graduated for sure!
2. Married. A girl can dream.
3. Hopefully be an awesome cook by now.

4. Be published ALOT by now

5. Still watching kid movies and the disney channel cause its very likely

5 people I tag...
1. Shannon Boyd

2. Kim Fontes
3. Vanessa Holt
4. Bec Stark

5. Everyone else.

2009-04-17T22:39:00.000-07:00

It all started 2.5 years ago when BSL introduced me to Joshua Radin. Thats when the affair began and it's never been the same since then. I would have to say that Jack Johnson will always be my favorite but Joshua comes close. Anyways getting to the point of all of this... I had the priviledge to see Joshua Radin LIVE last night! Thanks to a little bird, Bec, Van and I got to see a free concert in Scottsdale and it was AMAZING. Here are some pics from our fun night...

Joshua Radin. Enough said.

L is for Lost because we did.

------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

----------------------------------------------

Yay for Joshua Radin. Check out my blog music for some of his songs and Meiko as well, she opened for him and was awesome too.

I love love today. :)

2009-04-10T16:46:00.000-07:00

So this week has been AMAZing! It started over the weekened with General Conference which is always much needed. It reminds you of whats important in life and I can always use more guidance. Then my week cont. with an easy week of school, then the awesome Easter Pag last night and then there is today...i dont know what it is about today but it is a great day! I love being in those moods where you are just so happy and I've been in that mood a lot lately. i love it, I guess I've just focusing on the positives in life and it does make the biggest difference. I love love, love life and love being happy. And i thought I would include a couple things that make me happy...

The temple. Enough said. And love of course makes me happy. I was planning to include a picture that I took of the temple but I came across this picture and I fell in love with it. If you know me well enough you should know that this is my dream wedding picture....me getting married in the temple...with a horse by my side! love it!

Then there is my crush right now. I saw HS3 and ever since then,I havent been the same.

Then there is the missionary who makes me happy. I'd pick him over Zac Efron anyday so dont think these pictures are in any particular order!

SPRING TIME. The weather lately has been really perfect. With the wind and the sun and the beautifulness. It makes me appreciate mother nature.

Then there's my girls that make me happy. Each one is so unique and has their special characteristics. Just to name a few, Bec with her kindness. You might not see it at first but she will do anything for a friend and has such a good heart. Van with her cunning humor. Kat with her sweet spirit. Love em ALL.

What gets me through the week....

2009-03-31T15:43:00.000-07:00

So this semester of school has been tough...hard..time consuming. I dont know when it happened or how it did but I have a good idea of how it started.....it all started the day I cursed myself that this semester was going by too slow and wasn't challenging enough and the next thing I know I was dying and school was taking over my life! And as you can already tell, I like to make lists and this week I thought I would list the things that get me through the week, I bet some of them you can identify with.

(in no particular order)

* My weekly planner. I seriously would die without it. I can't even go a day without it. Sometimes I think I am OCD about it but hopefully its just a normal thing.

* Katelyn Burnett. Good thing this girl has verzion because I dont think a day goes by that I don't talk to her. She definitely gets me through the week and I will miss her this summer when she is away.

* My weekly letter from B. Larson. Yes, this is the highlight of my week. It's funny to say that a piece of paper is what you look forward too but tis true, he's just a really good pen pal:)

(ps. Less than 100 days! )

* Then there's this tv teen channel that I've recently found that I love. It has all the teen shows from the 90's and early 2000's and it gets me through my daily hw. I don't like to admit that I like tv but who can deny that 70's show and all the teen dramas. Admit you like them too!

*Last but not least, sleep. I need like 8 hours minimum. I don't know how people manage school, work, boyfriend, a social life and still get sleep because I only got two of those and I am always tired!

Sorry for my lists but I love them and are fun to do...way easier than writing long paragraphs.

Shoutouts...

2009-03-22T01:12:00.000-07:00

So it's quite some time since I've last written something down...usually i just put some pictures up but i havent been doing anything really cool lately but I did have a really good night last night so i thought i would ramble on about some insights I've had...I spent the night with some of my favorite girls and it made me realize some stuff....

1. Food. I love it but I am so full right now that i actually feel sick to my stomach. i didnt think it was possible.

2. Second and foremost. Kenzi Fackrell, Kelly Allen and Amber Creson. And Lori Fackrell. I spent the night with them tonight and it was just one of those amazing nights and you have no reason why you loved it so much but you just did.

Kenzi is amazing in every single way and I wished she lived here more because I would love to see her face more often. She is more like my sister if anything because her and I have seen each other in every situation and I love her to death. Kelly Allen is the new love of my life. This girl makes me so happy. I am so happy I will be spending more time with her in the near future:) Amber..she is adorable and so sweet. She always has something nice to say about others and is seriously one of the nicest girls ever. Lori, I love her! I am just grateful for my friends in general.

3. I realized lately that life is soo awesome! It is full of surprises and everything will work out if you just keep to the straight and narrow path. I love Heavenly Father.

4. I just want school to be over with and summer to come...Dont get me wrong..I, somewhat, love school but I just have so much to forward to this summer that I just want it to be May already...and then skip to July, nothing really that good is happening in June! haha

Well love you all for reading this boring entry if ya got this far. Hope you have a GREAT day!

Van is married!

2009-03-08T10:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a crazy but AMAZING day because one of my dearest friends, Vanessa Shepherd/Holt got married! Everything went perfect and she was the happiest I've ever seen her. She did a good job at picking her eternal companion cause her and Kevin are perfect for each other! Love them both and so happy for them! Congrats Van!

Funeral? haha

One last Vegas.

2009-02-22T18:00:00.000-08:00

Las Vegas. Since Vanessa is only weeks away from getting hitched, we thought we would do a weekend trip for her bachelorette party. Not everyone could make it but we still had SOOO much fun and it was fun to get away from the weekend.

This was a picture of us gals in our hotel.

We have too much fun with the camera self -timer
(don't mind us, it was the end of the night)

Keeping ourselves entertained on the roadtrip. This could be dangerous but don't worry
I am really good at multi tasking.

Our yummy drinks at HardRock Cafe.

Hey who would have known they had dancing at HardRock. Becca danced the Y-M-C-A way better than me!

We're in Paris! Sike! As for now, this is as close as we are gonna get!

Hanging out before the famous water show!

I love my girls and I am so excited for Van to get married!

Newest member of the fam.

2009-02-04T20:46:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce Nora.

She likes long drives downtown, ice cream and pleasant company .

Instead of hw...

2009-02-01T14:01:00.000-08:00

I probably have 3 hours of homework ahead of me but I love these things and I try to find any reason to put off work so thank you Willi for tagging me...

Rules:Once you've been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 25 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose people to be tagged.

1. I make my bed EVERY morning, even if I am running late.
2. One of my favorite things to do when I have no worries in the world is to read.
3. A goal of mine is to go sky-diving one day.
4. I get attached to things like bikes and cars and worldly things like that.
5. I think I have good taste in music.
6. When I am nervous/embarrassed/stressed/scared, my face always turns red.
7. Italy is probably my favorite place in the world. Besides Mesa, Az
8. I am smarter than I seem.
9. I think writing is healthy for the soul.
10. Speaking my mind is something I don't struggle with.
11. I've been waiting two years for a boy which seems crazy to some but thats because they dont know him.
12. I don't like meat and soda.
13. I want a huge family.
14. I never notice clothing on boys.
15. My best friend lives in Taiwan.
16. If I could pick anything to be good at, It'd be piano and photography.
17. Pessism is one of my biggest pet peeves.
18. One thing I always wanted growing up was a horse.
19. I sing in the car.
20. I think I can see through people easily.
21. I have 5 different laughs and they are all real, just for different things.
22. A year in NY city would be nice.
23. I read the news everyday in one shape or form.
24. I know how to sail.
25. Curly hair is best on me.

I tagg everyone so you better get on it! You really do realize a lot about yourself when you think of your random traits. Have fun!

Hi.

2009-01-24T14:05:00.000-08:00

I know Ive been pretty bad with blogging but I thought I should catch ya'll up on everything going on lately....well school started back up and I was sad to have winter-break come to an end but the sooner it starts the sooner summer comes right? well I think I'd let you in on some exciting stuff that has been going on lately and here is just a short list....
1.So last night, I signed the papers and I officially got a new car! A 2009 Toyota corolla and I love it, its soo pretty! But I am still trying to pick out a name so if anyone has a suggestions...let me know;)
2. Ever since I declared my major, i was a little worried about it but lately I've realized that I love journalism and that is it exactly what I want to do!
3. Something I am really excited about is Becca, Jaime and I and (possibly Kate) are going to Honolulu, Hawaii this May. And it will be much need since it will be right after finals are over. We are kinda seeing it as our celebration of completing two-years-of-college-yay!
4. And I know this is quite awhile away but Britton comes home this summer, July 7th to be exact so I am sooo looking forward to that!

Life is good. School is good. you just gotta be Happy. Have a great day!

I love Christmas.

2008-12-22T19:27:00.000-08:00

The Book girls (we are the smarties)

Da Scarf girls

This Christmas was our first annual friends' Christmas dinner and it was so much fun! We wanted it to be a tradition that we do it every year and this year we did it at M. Hornes. It seems like every time all of us girls get together, it is sooo fun! I am so blessed to have the friends that I do and Christmas time is always a good time to show the love. Let the yuletides begin! :)

TWILIGHT Movie!!

2008-11-21T19:38:00.000-08:00

My date with Edward!

So Twilight came out last night and...it was amazing! I highly recommend it! Being the faithful fans that we are, we went to the midnight showing and waited in line for a good 3 1-2 hours and it was sooo worth it (even for not so good seats)! I admit I was way excited since I have been waiting for the movie for forever and I really liked it...It was a little different from the book but if you love the book than you will love the movie too. Speaking of love, I am in love with Edward and I think Robert Pattinson was the perfect pick for the part. These pics are just us being silly while waiting for the showing, we gotta entertain ourselves somehow! Go see it!!!

State Fair Fun.

2008-10-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

We got a group together this week and took a trip to the state fair. It was GHETTO-fabulous literally. haha but you gotta love it. The best ride was defineatly the drop one and Kim was about to cry on it. Another good one was the surprisely fun roller coaster that Jam, Kat, and I didnt know what we were getting ourselves into! I admit I stayed far away from all the fried foods...can anyone say fried oreos? Thats just not right. haha It sometimes is nice to take a break from school and have fun..it's good for the soul!

October already?!

2008-10-18T23:09:00.000-07:00

Dang time is flying by so quick and I can't believe it is already october! Things have been a little crazy so I have been slacking in posts but I thought I would catch you up to date on everything going on...well Asu has been keeping me super busy along with good old work. But now onto the better stuff I went to the SYTYCD Concert with Van a few weeks ago and that was a lot of fun and I can't wait for halloween in a few weeks. Yay free candy. JK but a couple special dates coming up is on the 25th it will only be 9 more months until B gets home which means no more double digits:) and something else coming up is November 21st? Can you guess? TWILIGHT! Check out the new trailer, it is amazing.

Time sure does fly!

2008-09-16T22:17:00.000-07:00

I've been so terrible at keeping updated lately with everything going on and I thought I would take a break from studying tonight and do a little catching up. Well one of my best friends Meagan got married a few weeks ago and is loving it! Asu football was doing awesome until they had a loss this past weekend. Britton is doing so good, he is learning and growing so much!:) He's awesome. And he only has 10 months left...I am so excited! And then there is all my girls! I've realized lately how blessed I am with the friendships I have! They are the best and I dont know what I would do without them. I do miss Kenzi though, hopefully she'll become a Sun Devil someday! And then there's school...gotta love it! Or at least try. Well I love you all. I will try to post more often:)

Some really belated photos...forgive me!

2008-08-31T18:09:00.000-07:00

So my sister got married 3 weeks ago and I never put any pictures up here...for 3 reasons: My computer was being silly and today is the first day it's working again, I've been so busy with the end of summer and all it's festivities, and last but not least I have been lazy so please forgive me. This is my favorite picture of them (I took it) haha She is happily married and they are so cute together!

Then we ended the summer with a girls trip to California! It was so much fun! ASU started so I will try to pos more real soon. Until then, have a great day!

Summer..summer..summer

2008-08-12T22:00:00.001-07:00

Sorry for the lack of posts in the past month..let's just say that things have been crazy around here. Summer time has been full of many adventures. And now I finally have the time to sit down and post some pictures of them all.

We love to bowl:)

We love to make super cute faces!

And we definitely love John Mayer. We went to his concert a few weeks ago and it was so much fun! Then there was Mexico!!!! We had the best beach house in Rocky Point and my favorite thing about it was the creatures of the sea dvd that Jaime would put on everyday! It was a blast.

OKKKAAYY I admit...I paid the guy to sit on the horse! haha

Fossil Springs Camping Trip! We didn't hike down to the waterfalls because of a few set backs....#1 We forgot water on the camping trip #2 Our car battery died. #3 We woke up at like 9am when most start the hike around 6. #4 We decided it would be easier to just drive down. So we did and this is the view on the way down. It was real pretty.

I love Summer so much and I can't believe it is almost over in two weeks! It's been really busy and fun...I actually just got done reading breaking dawn and it is amazing so everyone should read it! Well that is all for now and I will post more soon. My sister just got married last weekend so i will include some wedding pictures asap! Love you all! Have a great day!

Long Time, No Post...

2008-07-10T15:40:00.000-07:00

So it has been awhile since I've posted anything but today I went and pre-ordered the last book of the most amazing books ever BREAKING DAWN! (Twilight books) and I am so excited for it. It comes out August second so you should read them all! It was funny though because when I ordered it, I felt like the biggest twilight nerd because she was asking me if I was going to attend the preparty for it. But besides that, nothing too eventful happening since I've been home, it is good to be home but I do admit that every now and then I am a little homesick for Italia.

I hate goodbyes..:(

2008-06-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

This trip has been amazing and so much fun! I got lucky with having the best roommates ever! I am going to miss them all! Last night was our last night together and it is so sad to see everyone leave but it will be so fun to have Italia sleepovers like we promised!

Now this is the 'real' us...Brittany is always eating no matter what time it is...11:30 at night or even right after we just had lunch! she is so funny
Jillian....This girl loves her bed, even in Firenze. She sleeps all day long and I think it's hilarious. She will only get up for three things...school, shopping, and food. haha
Then theres me, who is addicted to snake on our 1990's cell phones! I play it every night before I go to bed and one of these days (probably today since it's our last day) I will beat my high score!!!! But it's my guitly pleasure while here in Italia because I won't have it anymore when i get home.
Then there's Sam and Alex who is always on the computer...bumper sticking...even in Italy. :)
Italia is now at it's end and it's sad to leave but i will be back one day! :) Let's recap a few things: I went bungee jumping which is not like practical me. Cinque Terra was the prettiest place I've ever been too. Besides Firenze, I loved Venice soo soo much. I mastered the language (enough to order food which is the important part) and I cannot wait for mexican food and Arizona in general!

Guess who was in Firenze?!

2008-06-26T04:31:00.001-07:00

The "Hills" Lauren Conrad. We saw her walking around Firenze with her mom and sister and we were star struck! haha There was probably 5 of us girls trying to act causal pretending to take pictures of the sights but I think she was on to us! So instead, I took a picture from behind...really subtle, I know! But she is the one in the white, I promise! She was so cute in person and so tiny! I love her.

Fireworks in Firenze

2008-06-24T14:42:00.001-07:00

Tonight it was like 4Th of July in Firenze! There were fireworks because of the soccer game and to celebrate it, Brittany and I hung out by the river until they started. We got a little bored so to entertain ourselves...well I think it's obvious! The classic 'brr' picture (moving your lips) is my favorite! But the Italians really do love their fireworks! I will be posting a lot in the next few days because only have 3 days left!

I made the jump:) ...and went to Milano!

2008-06-22T02:05:00.000-07:00

Milano. It was a cool day trip there, just spent the day walking around. It's starting to feel like summer here (not too mention soo humid) but I loved it anyways.
So I did something a little crazy this weekend that I thought I would never do....this was the view from the top of the bridge where I BUNGEE JUMPED!

And this is how high it is! I didn't expect it to be this high but when you traveled all day to get there, it was hard to back out. Isn't it so green and pretty?
This is me getting suited up for the jump...it was my roommate and I who went and I was the first to jump so I didn't really know what to expect. And we couldn't really ask them a whole lot because it was broken english/lots of Italian. But I was really nervous especially on the platform because they had to tell me to let go of the pole because I had a death grip on it!
Tre, due, uno... I JUMPED! Thankfully my roommate brittany is awesome at taking pictures and got me right when I jumped! I still can't believe I did it! I kinda look like I am flying :)
This is me just dangling around. It was so fun and is definitely the craziest thing I've ever done but I thought with it being my last weekend in Italia, I had to do something I would always remember. When in Italia right?
I survived! And I loved it. Honest I don't know if I would do it again because on the way down (the free falling part) I almost had a heart attack with it being a little scary but I am still glad I did it. Also it was the most expensive 4.5 seconds of my life and it took lots of train rides to get here but I am lucky to even have this experience! One week left in Florence and then I am home! I can't wait to see everyone! Have a nice day!

A birthday shout out to my favorite person

2008-06-18T10:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Britton

B turns the big 2-0 today and although he is off serving the Lord in Taiwan, he is missed on his birthday. It's almost his 11th month mark and it is flying by. He is an awesome missionary filled with the spirit and I am so proud of him. He is the best! I hope he has an amazing day!

Happy happy Birthday to my bestest friend!

2008-06-16T14:20:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATELYN!

Today is one of my best friends birthday and since I am not able to be there to celebrate it with her, a shout out on blogspot is second best! Katelyn has been an amazing friend and I don't know what I would do without her! She is not only my snowboarding buddy or someone to go on bike rides with me but she is my love! I am having withdrawals from not talking to her everyday because I am so used to it but I know it will be so much fun when I get home. You are the best girl, I hope you have the best day ever! Love you.

Le Cinque Terra:)

2008-06-16T04:10:00.000-07:00

Can you believe this is in Italy! I still can't believe this was only yesterday when I saw this view. This is Le Cinque Terra which is 5 coastal villages and guess what! I HIKED them all! 18 km to be exact.. which is about 11.77 miles, okay I made up the .77 but close enough! The view was amazing and I think this is the prettiest place I've ever been in my entire life! It took all day but at the end it was worth every step. I was thinking the entire time, Katelyn would be so proud of me! haha This is a picture of one of the five towns which was so colorful and cute! I am lucky.