Maybe it's this time of year, but lately I have sure been grateful for the beautiful life I've been given. During this season, it's so easy to get caught up in all the things we dont have rather than all the wonderful things we've been blessed with. I got caught up in it too, but was soon given a reality check when I realized how fortunate I really am. So many others struggle to pay bills, are lost, lonely, or depressed. So many are hungry and homeless. It breaks my heart when I think of how much I've been blessed with and some people have so much less.
I feel so blessed that Marty and I both have good jobs. I don't always like mine, especially my 12 hour holiday shifts, but I am so lucky to have it. I'm grateful for school and that soon, I will be teaching and having a reliable job for my family. I'm also thankful for our ability to save money and not have financial stress. This is such a real thing for so many people and I know just how hard that can be. I'm so grateful, also, for my business. It has done extremely well and has helped bring in extra income for us as well as teach me a lot about responsibility.
Even more so, I'm so thankful for my absolutely amazing husband. Seriously, he makes my life so much better. He walks me out to my car each morning, helps me scrape it, and makes sure I'm safe. I came home from my boutique last week to a squeaky clean home that me cleaned all by himself on his day off. He stays up late helping me with nutrition homework and cheering me on. He always supports, enciurages, and loves me, even when I don't deserve it. We have so much fun together and he is truly my best friend.
I could go on and on about now I'm grateful for family, our home, food, and everything else but I want to keep this post short. I am truly grateful for everything I have and encourage everyone to make a list of all the things they are grateful for. Also, remember that during this time of year, we should try to give back as much as we can. We should be supporters of our fellow men, and try to help any way we can. Merry Christmas everyone!
Friday, December 19, 2014
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Learning to Choose Happiness
This week has been absolute madness. To let everyone see into my week, let me explain what I had going on. School was awful this week. I had a 5 page creative non-fiction paper, a 6-7 page British literature critical essay, a personal diet analysis (basically a three page paper about my own nutrition), a nutrition assignment on the glycemic index and exchange list, a nutrition discussion post, a nutrition quiz, two Spanish assignments, a Spanish test, all while staying caught up on my reading for school. I can barely handle how much homework I had to do this week. Besides that, I had work (I'm so tired- 4 am shifts are rough) and my actual classes to attend. I also hadn't a boutiques to prepare for as well as trying to keep up on ournhome with Marty's help and finding time t soendwith him.
Well, the meat of this post is not to complain, but to explain how much better stress and hard times are with a happy attitude. My goal as do lately is to stay calm when troubles come and to be happy even when I want to be bitter or angry. With such a busy schedule, it would be so easy to be grumpy and always complain. It would also be miserable. I had such a bug learning experience this week. Lately, I have loved making my own whole wheat bread to eat for lunches- it's also so much healthier. I decided to make some Friday night but started too late as I had to be up at 3 the next morning to go to work for a few hours before my boutique started. Marty, who is the absolute sweetest husband, offered to stay up and bake it for me so I could get some rest. I woke up around midnight to the smell of burnt bread. Marty had forgotten to get it out as he had fallen asleep. Frantic, I ran to the kitchen t get it out before we smoked out our apartment. I woke Marty up to ask him how long it had been in there. Poor Marty felt so bad. At first, I felt angry because I really wanted this bread for my lunch the next day and I had spent some of my time making it when I still had lots to do. When I took a step back from my bad feelings, I realized how grateful I was for my husband. How can I be mad when he always helps me and takes so much of my stress and burdens off my shoulders. He was trying to be helpful, and his effort and willingness to help me is worth so much more than a loaf of bread. I was overwhelmed with feelings of love and gratitude for Marty, and I know this is how I am intended to deal with anger because seeing the good washes it out and replaces it with wholesome and happy feelings and thoughts.
Besides all he stress and the long to-do list, I honestly felt happy this week. I don't even think it was all that bad. Choosing happiness can make all the difference in our lives. Plus, who wants to be angry or bitter anyway? I am so grateful for this lesson and I can't wait to see how I am able to better deal with my trials and shortcomings. Also, I'm really grateful for Marty. He makes everything better. Love you, babe! Here's to an even better week.
Well, the meat of this post is not to complain, but to explain how much better stress and hard times are with a happy attitude. My goal as do lately is to stay calm when troubles come and to be happy even when I want to be bitter or angry. With such a busy schedule, it would be so easy to be grumpy and always complain. It would also be miserable. I had such a bug learning experience this week. Lately, I have loved making my own whole wheat bread to eat for lunches- it's also so much healthier. I decided to make some Friday night but started too late as I had to be up at 3 the next morning to go to work for a few hours before my boutique started. Marty, who is the absolute sweetest husband, offered to stay up and bake it for me so I could get some rest. I woke up around midnight to the smell of burnt bread. Marty had forgotten to get it out as he had fallen asleep. Frantic, I ran to the kitchen t get it out before we smoked out our apartment. I woke Marty up to ask him how long it had been in there. Poor Marty felt so bad. At first, I felt angry because I really wanted this bread for my lunch the next day and I had spent some of my time making it when I still had lots to do. When I took a step back from my bad feelings, I realized how grateful I was for my husband. How can I be mad when he always helps me and takes so much of my stress and burdens off my shoulders. He was trying to be helpful, and his effort and willingness to help me is worth so much more than a loaf of bread. I was overwhelmed with feelings of love and gratitude for Marty, and I know this is how I am intended to deal with anger because seeing the good washes it out and replaces it with wholesome and happy feelings and thoughts.
Besides all he stress and the long to-do list, I honestly felt happy this week. I don't even think it was all that bad. Choosing happiness can make all the difference in our lives. Plus, who wants to be angry or bitter anyway? I am so grateful for this lesson and I can't wait to see how I am able to better deal with my trials and shortcomings. Also, I'm really grateful for Marty. He makes everything better. Love you, babe! Here's to an even better week.
Sunday, September 7, 2014
Nutrition Misconceptions
As I transferred to WSU this last summer, I was given the opportunity (basically I have to gradate) to choose a minor. Many English majors choose to minor in technical writing, gender studies, or other areas of the humanities. I, on the other hand, chose something completely different. I chose nutrition. With my weight loss in the last year, my interest of wholesome and healthy eating increased and continues to do so. I always like to say that I don't have a "science brain" and my nutrition classes are definitely proving that theory to be fact. However, I am up for the challenge and am loving everything I am learning.
When I started, I feared some of my professors would have fallen trap to the misconceptions of mainstream nutrition. I knew that they were obviously qualified to teach the course but many misconceptions are still taught today and widely believed. Luckily, my professors seem to be ahead of them. I watched a documentary called Hungry for Change (you can find it on Netflix) and that was my first big eye opener. I loved this documentary because it wasn't just a bunch of people that have always been thin and athletic telling you what to eat so you can look like them. Rather, it was a large group of people who had at one time been dangerously obese and then took control to improve their health. That fact alone was so much more inspiring. I loved the documentary and finished watching feeling just like he title suggested, hungry for change.
One thing both professors and the documentary pointed out was the complete misconception of dairy products. Super-market grade diary is NOT healthy at all! It is full or hormones, chemicals, and... sugar. And not just lactose (milk sugar) but lots of added sugar to make it taste the way it does. Yogurts, cheeses, milk, anything dairy is completely loaded with sugar. Even worse are the low-fat varieties. They have even more sugar and artificial sweeteners/flavorings in them than the products containing all the fat. The best option for dairy products is organic. Even at that, dairy should be eaten in moderation as it as not as healthy as most people are taught.
Do you know what else is bad? All those awful low fat, low calorie, and other diet foods that companies produce to pray on people who want to lose weight. You know those weight watchers snack cakes that are less than 100 calories so they must be good for you? No way! They are right, they do not contain sugar, or a least any real sugar. Instead, they are loaded up with artificial sugar substitutes that are even worse for you than sugar! The artificial sugars make your body think its getting sugar, so it responds in that way only to find out their is no sugar for it to absorb. Because your body has this response, it wants more sugar to complete its already started process. Have you ever noticed that diet soda drinkers are usually so much more addicted to their sodas than the people who drink the original? This is why. Low calorie, low fat, and low sugar processed foods should be avoided. Instead, natural whole foods should be consumed.
Well, this is as far as my rant goes today. I'm sure it will continue to develop as I learn more about nutrition and foods. Until next time, drink a green smoothie and eat your vegetables. :)
When I started, I feared some of my professors would have fallen trap to the misconceptions of mainstream nutrition. I knew that they were obviously qualified to teach the course but many misconceptions are still taught today and widely believed. Luckily, my professors seem to be ahead of them. I watched a documentary called Hungry for Change (you can find it on Netflix) and that was my first big eye opener. I loved this documentary because it wasn't just a bunch of people that have always been thin and athletic telling you what to eat so you can look like them. Rather, it was a large group of people who had at one time been dangerously obese and then took control to improve their health. That fact alone was so much more inspiring. I loved the documentary and finished watching feeling just like he title suggested, hungry for change.
One thing both professors and the documentary pointed out was the complete misconception of dairy products. Super-market grade diary is NOT healthy at all! It is full or hormones, chemicals, and... sugar. And not just lactose (milk sugar) but lots of added sugar to make it taste the way it does. Yogurts, cheeses, milk, anything dairy is completely loaded with sugar. Even worse are the low-fat varieties. They have even more sugar and artificial sweeteners/flavorings in them than the products containing all the fat. The best option for dairy products is organic. Even at that, dairy should be eaten in moderation as it as not as healthy as most people are taught.
Do you know what else is bad? All those awful low fat, low calorie, and other diet foods that companies produce to pray on people who want to lose weight. You know those weight watchers snack cakes that are less than 100 calories so they must be good for you? No way! They are right, they do not contain sugar, or a least any real sugar. Instead, they are loaded up with artificial sugar substitutes that are even worse for you than sugar! The artificial sugars make your body think its getting sugar, so it responds in that way only to find out their is no sugar for it to absorb. Because your body has this response, it wants more sugar to complete its already started process. Have you ever noticed that diet soda drinkers are usually so much more addicted to their sodas than the people who drink the original? This is why. Low calorie, low fat, and low sugar processed foods should be avoided. Instead, natural whole foods should be consumed.
Well, this is as far as my rant goes today. I'm sure it will continue to develop as I learn more about nutrition and foods. Until next time, drink a green smoothie and eat your vegetables. :)
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Marriage Isn't Scary, I Promise.
Well... I haven't posted in a long while. Oops. Things have been busy but I can finally say that I am adjusting to my very full and busy life. This post may seem mushy (a lot of mine do), but its something I really wanted to express. Maybe no one can relate, but it is something that I want to share.
Growing up, I had an image of what marriage was like based on my own environment. Not all times were bad, but I can honestly say that my old vision of marriage was extremely dull and inadequate. To be candid, I was even scared of being married for a really long time. My parents were divorced when I was 17 old. They had been through a lot together, but still it just didn't work out. For quite awhile, I saw marriage as a chore. I saw it as something I had to do that may or may not be happy or even work. This attitude showed in my choice of boys I dated. I dated boys who were often really good lairs, and were there when they wanted to be. I looked for the worst in them because that's what I expected. I didn't want my marriage to be like my parents, but somehow that vision of marriage was all I could see for myself.
When I met Marty, little did I know that in just a little over a year that we would be married. I kept myself distant at first. I held in all my deepest feelings and hurt and tried to act like the screwed up perception of relationships that I had was ok. How Marty put up with my constant insecurities and negative attitude is beyond me. Like before, I expected the worst but with him, the worst never came. I saw so much more good than I did bad, that the flaws became irrelevant and unimportant. I saw how much someone can care for another.
Since then, and especially since being married, my perception of relationships and marriage has changed drastically. I have learned that marriage is nothing like what I thought it was, and absolutely nothing like what we see dramatized in movies and television-- It's BETTER! It isn't screaming fights, nagging, name-calling, or even fancy dates, lavish gifts, constant physical touch, or anything like that. It's love. And love is simple. Love is the arm you feel close around you in the middle of the night, or the smile he gives you as you make dinner together. Love is when your spouse boils water for you while you are sick when there is no more for your bath, its dancing in the living room, or singing cheesy love songs to each other in the car. It's saying your sorry when you disagree and admitting when are wrong. It is giving up the deepest part of you willingly and loving your spouse despite their darkest secrets and lowest feelings.
Despite the newness of our marriage, I can truly say that I know that marriage is going to be hard sometimes-- aren't all the best things in life difficult at some point? But with whatever trials we may have to face, I am so glad that I get to do it with my best friend. Marriage is truly a gift and we are so blessed to be able to commit to something so wonderful and to be given the change to have our own families one day. When I was engaged, I heard a lot of negative things about marriage all of which I know depend so much on our attitudes and approaches. Yes, its hard. Yes, it's added responsibility. Yes, its an adjustment. But all of those things can be good. Why is change or hard work bad? It's not! Our instantly gratifying world likes to tell us that it is though, because so many do not desire to take the effort or time to make something worthwhile. If it's not perfect at first, they want to throw it out. Marriage isn't valued in our society as much as it used to be. Divorce rates are soaring and people are scared to commit themselves. With so much evil in the world, I can understand the hesitation. I felt it too, at one point. However, marriage to the right person is absolutely amazing. How great is it that we have a partner to share our happiest moments and our lowest times? We have someone to lean on when we are sad and someone to cleave to when times get hard. There WILL be times or trial and difficulty, but you get to go through them together. Despite what I heard form others, marrying Marty was the best choice I ever made, and I feel so happy and blessed that he chose me to share this crazy life with.
Growing up, I had an image of what marriage was like based on my own environment. Not all times were bad, but I can honestly say that my old vision of marriage was extremely dull and inadequate. To be candid, I was even scared of being married for a really long time. My parents were divorced when I was 17 old. They had been through a lot together, but still it just didn't work out. For quite awhile, I saw marriage as a chore. I saw it as something I had to do that may or may not be happy or even work. This attitude showed in my choice of boys I dated. I dated boys who were often really good lairs, and were there when they wanted to be. I looked for the worst in them because that's what I expected. I didn't want my marriage to be like my parents, but somehow that vision of marriage was all I could see for myself.
When I met Marty, little did I know that in just a little over a year that we would be married. I kept myself distant at first. I held in all my deepest feelings and hurt and tried to act like the screwed up perception of relationships that I had was ok. How Marty put up with my constant insecurities and negative attitude is beyond me. Like before, I expected the worst but with him, the worst never came. I saw so much more good than I did bad, that the flaws became irrelevant and unimportant. I saw how much someone can care for another.
Since then, and especially since being married, my perception of relationships and marriage has changed drastically. I have learned that marriage is nothing like what I thought it was, and absolutely nothing like what we see dramatized in movies and television-- It's BETTER! It isn't screaming fights, nagging, name-calling, or even fancy dates, lavish gifts, constant physical touch, or anything like that. It's love. And love is simple. Love is the arm you feel close around you in the middle of the night, or the smile he gives you as you make dinner together. Love is when your spouse boils water for you while you are sick when there is no more for your bath, its dancing in the living room, or singing cheesy love songs to each other in the car. It's saying your sorry when you disagree and admitting when are wrong. It is giving up the deepest part of you willingly and loving your spouse despite their darkest secrets and lowest feelings.
Despite the newness of our marriage, I can truly say that I know that marriage is going to be hard sometimes-- aren't all the best things in life difficult at some point? But with whatever trials we may have to face, I am so glad that I get to do it with my best friend. Marriage is truly a gift and we are so blessed to be able to commit to something so wonderful and to be given the change to have our own families one day. When I was engaged, I heard a lot of negative things about marriage all of which I know depend so much on our attitudes and approaches. Yes, its hard. Yes, it's added responsibility. Yes, its an adjustment. But all of those things can be good. Why is change or hard work bad? It's not! Our instantly gratifying world likes to tell us that it is though, because so many do not desire to take the effort or time to make something worthwhile. If it's not perfect at first, they want to throw it out. Marriage isn't valued in our society as much as it used to be. Divorce rates are soaring and people are scared to commit themselves. With so much evil in the world, I can understand the hesitation. I felt it too, at one point. However, marriage to the right person is absolutely amazing. How great is it that we have a partner to share our happiest moments and our lowest times? We have someone to lean on when we are sad and someone to cleave to when times get hard. There WILL be times or trial and difficulty, but you get to go through them together. Despite what I heard form others, marrying Marty was the best choice I ever made, and I feel so happy and blessed that he chose me to share this crazy life with.
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
New Jobs, New Work Adventures
This morning I decided to call kneaders (my new job) and ask them for my schedule for next week when I start. Well it turned out that they never sent me a schedule and my first shift was in two hours. Holy crazy. I haven't works in about 8 months so I was a nervous wreck. I can even shamelessly admit that I called Marty crying when I found out I had to go in. I wasn't prepared, I didn't have the menu completely memorized like I wanted, and I didn't even have the right pants or shoes yet. I started to panic as I got ready to head to my first day at my new job. I was a clammy nervous wreck. Yay for bodily stress responses.
My first shift was only two hours but turned into 3.5. But its ok because I actually enjoyed. Imagine that, the shy, nervous girl actually did ok and liked it. Its definitely challenging as I still have so much learning to do. But it was so much fun to go and work, especially after such a long time. I loved helping customers and meeting my new co workers. Although, there is a lot. Who knew Ogden Kneaders had about 50 employees? My shift went well and I think I'm really going to like working again and my new job,
My new working endeavors don't stop there though. I have been writing a lot lately because I've had so much down time. Nothing serious, but I definitely want to publish something in the future. It probably wont make lots of money, but I don't even care. Having a published book would be pay enough for me!
Besides writing, I have been dabbing into my own little business. As many of you probably already know, I have been making and selling cute little head wraps. They are so cute and I absolutely love doing it. They have been selling like crazy!
A few people have even suggested I turn it into a small business and sell my product and stores and boutiques. I have definitely been looking into this but quite honestly, I don't even know where to start! Do I get more people to buy from me first? Do I stick a name on it and create a name for myself then turn it into a business? Is that even legal? Is it even worth it? I have no idea!!! But I do know I love making these cute head wraps, and I love when people pick them up and love them as much as I do! Who knows, maybe this will be a few times thing, or maybe is will be a small business. Who knows at this point? If you have any advice, suggestions, or pointers, please please please share them in the comments or any direct contact to me. I would so greatly appreciate it!
My first shift was only two hours but turned into 3.5. But its ok because I actually enjoyed. Imagine that, the shy, nervous girl actually did ok and liked it. Its definitely challenging as I still have so much learning to do. But it was so much fun to go and work, especially after such a long time. I loved helping customers and meeting my new co workers. Although, there is a lot. Who knew Ogden Kneaders had about 50 employees? My shift went well and I think I'm really going to like working again and my new job,
My new working endeavors don't stop there though. I have been writing a lot lately because I've had so much down time. Nothing serious, but I definitely want to publish something in the future. It probably wont make lots of money, but I don't even care. Having a published book would be pay enough for me!
Besides writing, I have been dabbing into my own little business. As many of you probably already know, I have been making and selling cute little head wraps. They are so cute and I absolutely love doing it. They have been selling like crazy! A few people have even suggested I turn it into a small business and sell my product and stores and boutiques. I have definitely been looking into this but quite honestly, I don't even know where to start! Do I get more people to buy from me first? Do I stick a name on it and create a name for myself then turn it into a business? Is that even legal? Is it even worth it? I have no idea!!! But I do know I love making these cute head wraps, and I love when people pick them up and love them as much as I do! Who knows, maybe this will be a few times thing, or maybe is will be a small business. Who knows at this point? If you have any advice, suggestions, or pointers, please please please share them in the comments or any direct contact to me. I would so greatly appreciate it!
Monday, June 2, 2014
Being Married... it's the best!
With finals, moving, wedding plans, honeymoon, and getting all settled, I haven't posted in quite some time. Slacking, I know. Well, I am finally going to post all bout this new adventure Marty and I are beginning together!
First things first, I survived final, barely! My grades weren't quite what I was hoping for, but I didn't get anything lower than a B which is pretty good considering my mind was focused on getting married, not school. I had the hardest classes I had ever taken which became even more difficult when I couldn't fully focus. I was just too dang excited to get married! After I finished school I had two more weeks until our wedding. It was crazy busy and really hectic, but we survived- thank goodness!
Finally, it was the wedding. The last few days before the wedding were emotionally and physically exhausting. I am so glad I never have to do that again. With everyone on edge, it was not a fun time. But we got through it and the wedding was absolutely perfect! Marty and I were married on May 17 and we couldn't have asked for a better day. Everything looked so beautiful and we were surrounded by so many amazing people. The days festivities went well and we didn't have any major catastrophes. And if there were, I didn't notice because all I could think about was my cute new husband. I was so overwhelmed with love and I felt happier than I ever have. Honestly, I cant remember a lot of the small nitty gritty details but I can clearly remember the way I felt, and I think that's what's more important anyway. Marty and I are so grateful to everyone who helped and supported us on our special day. We feel so blessed.
Right after our reception, Marty and I flew out to Las Vegas for our honeymoon. We had so much fun and Marty definitely spoiled me! I knew we were going to Vegas but everything else was a surprise. We stayed in a huge suite in Palms Place, which isn't right on the strip but it was beautiful and more quiet. It was still really close to the strip though so we could get there really quickly. I haven't ever stayed in Vegas other than for dance competitions, so it was fun to go exploring. We walked through almost all the hotels and lots of the stores- it was great! Some of the fun things we did were- the coke factory, M&M world, the Eiffel Tower replica, gondola rides in the venetian, Carlos Bakery (Cake Boss), the wax museum, the mall, a really cool rare bookstore, and swimming in our hotels pool. We had so much fun and I was sad when we had to come home. Thanks babe for the best honeymoon ever!
So being married is most likely the best thing ever! I love lazy weekend mornings, snuggles, seeing each other every day, cooking together, keeping up on the housework together, everything! Its so fun! But can I just say... I hate when we are apart. How on earth did I ever do long distance? We are apart for about 10 hours everyday and by then I can hardly wait to see him again. Newlywed probs? Oh well. It is so fun to start merging our lives together in every way and to start setting up schedules, traditions, and making memories together. We are so happy and having so much fun being married!
5 reasons why being married to Marty is the best:
1. He is excited to see me every morning and every night when he comes home.
2. He always helps with cooking, dishes, cleaning, and anything else that needs to be done.
3. He loves with expecting anything back. When he does something for me, he does it out of love rather than out of expecting something in return.
4. He's so funny! I never stop laughing when he is around.
5. We have so much fun together! No matter what we do we are laughing and smiling and enjoying our time together.
Finally, it was the wedding. The last few days before the wedding were emotionally and physically exhausting. I am so glad I never have to do that again. With everyone on edge, it was not a fun time. But we got through it and the wedding was absolutely perfect! Marty and I were married on May 17 and we couldn't have asked for a better day. Everything looked so beautiful and we were surrounded by so many amazing people. The days festivities went well and we didn't have any major catastrophes. And if there were, I didn't notice because all I could think about was my cute new husband. I was so overwhelmed with love and I felt happier than I ever have. Honestly, I cant remember a lot of the small nitty gritty details but I can clearly remember the way I felt, and I think that's what's more important anyway. Marty and I are so grateful to everyone who helped and supported us on our special day. We feel so blessed.
5 reasons why being married to Marty is the best:
1. He is excited to see me every morning and every night when he comes home.
2. He always helps with cooking, dishes, cleaning, and anything else that needs to be done.
3. He loves with expecting anything back. When he does something for me, he does it out of love rather than out of expecting something in return.
4. He's so funny! I never stop laughing when he is around.
5. We have so much fun together! No matter what we do we are laughing and smiling and enjoying our time together.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Yes, I'm getting married young. Why does it matter?
This post may seem rant-ish, but I promise my intentions are good. I haven't been posting lately because between wedding planning and finals my life has been chaos. However, I decided to take a break and write because this is an issue VERY close to my heart and very applicable to my life. For anyone who doesn't know me well, I am 20 years old and in one month I will be married to the man of my dreams. We have known each other a year. Lately, I have heard and read so much criticism on young couples marrying and also couples marrying before they have dated for at least 2 years. Here are some of my "favorite" remarks:
"You better live it up while you are free."
"You didn't even have time to enjoy college or your life yet."
"You're getting married already? Didn't you just meet him?"
"What's the rush? You have your whole life to be married."
"60% of coupless married under age 24 will divorce."
"You're too young."
"You should wait a couple years, you don't even know him."
"Are you ready to get married? You're still a kid."
I am not even joking a little bit when I say that I have been told every single one of these-- to my face. I don't care when you get married or how long you waited because it is your relationship and not mine. We should not criticize. I could pull out all sorts of studies and stats saying that waiting til later in life to get married can be failure prone, but I don't because statistics don't form relationships. I am no saying that getting married young or quickly is better, but rather who are you to criticize others choices?
No matter how old you are, marriage is a risk. You are committing yourself 100% to someone without knowing the future. But if you make a decision that you trust, you should not doubt yourself. If both of you work hard for your marriage or relationship, you will succeed.
I am excited to get married young because...
I get to love my sweet fiancé even longer. I was fortunate enough to meet him quickly. There is no reason to wait when we both love each other unconditionally and are working towards the same goals and following our dreams.
I get to grow with him. This happens in all marriages, no matter the age. But for me, I get to decide and develop a lot of how I act and who I become with him. Please do not mistake this as "she is giving herself up to be married." Nope. Not even close. Marty supports me in all that I do. I love art and books, he loves guns and movies. We have different passions that neither of us expect each other to give up for marriage. What I am implying is that because we are not set in stone in our ways, it will be easier for us, personally, to adapt and grow as a couple. We are separate people, but we are very much one unit as well.
I get to do everything with someone I love, why wouldn't I want it to start ASAP?
I get to establish roots. Sure, living carefree with your friends is fun. But for me, that is not fulfilling nor what I want. I want security. I want to establish a permanent relationship and begin my grown up life. In my circumstances was forced to grow up quickly because I was forced to deal with grown up things. Maybe that's why I have no problem getting married young. But personally, I believe that it is because I know that families are the most essential part of life and to me, that is the most important thing. I am eager and excited to begin this new journey with the best guy I know.
I love him. Never have I met someone who believes in me so intently. Someone who wants me to succeed so much and who will support my dreams, no matter how crazy they are. Of course I want this support that marriage offers.
I get to be young and crazy with him. Ok really though, crazy for Marty and me is extra hot fudge on an ice cream sundae or walking around aimlessly because we can. But... We are young, so we can wait to have kids if we please. There is no rush, so we can have all the adventures we want before we decide to bless our lives with extra little toes.
So if you must, go ahead and continue to bash on young marriages-- privately. I'm not a statistic and I'm not a research number. Marriage is marriage, and people should be able to marry at whatever age they please- whether it be fresh out of high school or when they are 80. Either way, marriage is a beautiful thing and should not be addressed in a condescending way- ever. If you hate marriage and don't want to get married or you are so set in "living it up" be my guest. Do whatever makes you happy, just please do not attack my choice to start a life with someone I love more than anything when I am still young. It is my marriage. Her marriage. His marriage. Their marriage. I mean this in the nicest way possible but- stay out of it. Its not your choice (:
"You better live it up while you are free."
"You didn't even have time to enjoy college or your life yet."
"You're getting married already? Didn't you just meet him?"
"What's the rush? You have your whole life to be married."
"60% of coupless married under age 24 will divorce."
"You're too young."
"You should wait a couple years, you don't even know him."
"Are you ready to get married? You're still a kid."
I am not even joking a little bit when I say that I have been told every single one of these-- to my face. I don't care when you get married or how long you waited because it is your relationship and not mine. We should not criticize. I could pull out all sorts of studies and stats saying that waiting til later in life to get married can be failure prone, but I don't because statistics don't form relationships. I am no saying that getting married young or quickly is better, but rather who are you to criticize others choices?
No matter how old you are, marriage is a risk. You are committing yourself 100% to someone without knowing the future. But if you make a decision that you trust, you should not doubt yourself. If both of you work hard for your marriage or relationship, you will succeed.
I am excited to get married young because...
I get to love my sweet fiancé even longer. I was fortunate enough to meet him quickly. There is no reason to wait when we both love each other unconditionally and are working towards the same goals and following our dreams.
I get to grow with him. This happens in all marriages, no matter the age. But for me, I get to decide and develop a lot of how I act and who I become with him. Please do not mistake this as "she is giving herself up to be married." Nope. Not even close. Marty supports me in all that I do. I love art and books, he loves guns and movies. We have different passions that neither of us expect each other to give up for marriage. What I am implying is that because we are not set in stone in our ways, it will be easier for us, personally, to adapt and grow as a couple. We are separate people, but we are very much one unit as well.
I get to do everything with someone I love, why wouldn't I want it to start ASAP?
I get to establish roots. Sure, living carefree with your friends is fun. But for me, that is not fulfilling nor what I want. I want security. I want to establish a permanent relationship and begin my grown up life. In my circumstances was forced to grow up quickly because I was forced to deal with grown up things. Maybe that's why I have no problem getting married young. But personally, I believe that it is because I know that families are the most essential part of life and to me, that is the most important thing. I am eager and excited to begin this new journey with the best guy I know.
I love him. Never have I met someone who believes in me so intently. Someone who wants me to succeed so much and who will support my dreams, no matter how crazy they are. Of course I want this support that marriage offers.
I get to be young and crazy with him. Ok really though, crazy for Marty and me is extra hot fudge on an ice cream sundae or walking around aimlessly because we can. But... We are young, so we can wait to have kids if we please. There is no rush, so we can have all the adventures we want before we decide to bless our lives with extra little toes.
So if you must, go ahead and continue to bash on young marriages-- privately. I'm not a statistic and I'm not a research number. Marriage is marriage, and people should be able to marry at whatever age they please- whether it be fresh out of high school or when they are 80. Either way, marriage is a beautiful thing and should not be addressed in a condescending way- ever. If you hate marriage and don't want to get married or you are so set in "living it up" be my guest. Do whatever makes you happy, just please do not attack my choice to start a life with someone I love more than anything when I am still young. It is my marriage. Her marriage. His marriage. Their marriage. I mean this in the nicest way possible but- stay out of it. Its not your choice (:
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Simple Living
In my time away at school as a poor college student, I have learned so much about simple, frugal, and natural living. It was hard to adjust at first, but I quickly learned how much things do not make you happy. I decided that I would start a mini series with tutorials on how to make things, reviews of natural products, and tips on adapting a minimalist type lifestyle.
In my eagerness and interest in adapting to a minimalist mentality, I began to research what it really meant to be a minimalist. (Sorry Pinterest followers, you were flooded my minimalism and natural pins) I found a vast variety of definitions but consistent definition that I absolutely fell in love with was this,
In my eagerness and interest in adapting to a minimalist mentality, I began to research what it really meant to be a minimalist. (Sorry Pinterest followers, you were flooded my minimalism and natural pins) I found a vast variety of definitions but consistent definition that I absolutely fell in love with was this,
Ok, how amazing is this? When I first thought about minimalism, I thought that it meant having barely anything and living from a suitcase. That is so wrong. For me, minimalism means only buying what you need and things that you a absolutely love. Whether it be a piece of clothing, a decoration, a book, anything. If it enhances your life in a meaningful way, it is worth buying. In our consumerist society, its easy to get caught up in what we have or don't have, and to want the best of everything for the sake of having it- not for how it affects our lives. I personally think the problem is getting worse and it really is sad. Instead of buying things we love, we buy things other people love or things that will make others think higher of us. When I was able to recognize this in my own life, I was in shock of how many things I had bought that didn't enhance my life in any way. I lost a lot of my sentimental attachment to my things and was able to get rid of them without remorse or feeling bad about it.
The other aspect of simple living that I would love to adapt (as money and time permit) is natural living. I've done a lot of research lately into some natural products and tutorials to make products, and I can honestly say that I am so impressed and excited to use them. I have been using Lush products for the last year or so and I have loved some of them. But do you know what I hate, hate, and hate about Lush? Their prices! They are awful! I used to use a moisturizer bar called full of grace that I quite enjoyed, but hated the price. The bar is pretty tiny and it costs roughly $16. Storing it is a battle because if melts so easily and even when you use it, so much wasted product melts into your hand. One of the main ingredients is shea butter which is an amazing natural moisturizer. And did I mention its way cheaper? (I'll write a post soon about how amazing shea butter is) There are so many awesome natural products that are great on their own or mixed with others to make homemade cleaners and cosmetics.
Call me what you'd like (hippie, treehugger, etc.) but I am so excited to adapt this new style of living. Has anyone else adapted these ways? If so how did it go? Did/do you like it? Any tips?
*On a side note, has anyone tried African black soap? Its a great price on Amazon and it has awesome reviews about reducing spots and blemishes. I want to try it when I run out of my current face wash, but I'm wondering if anyone has tried this.*
Monday, March 31, 2014
Weekends with Marty.
When I moved away, Marty and I had big plans that he would get to come visit me more often. With rising gas prices and a long drive, it just made more sense for me to drive home to West Jordan and for him to drive from Evanston to West Jordan every other weekend. That and once we started talking about marriage, we knew we needed to save our pennies! Lucky for me, Marty was able to come spend this last weekend with me in Cedar. His parents were passing through on their way to St. George and dropped him off on the way. Thrilled would be an understatement of how stinking happy I was for extra time with Marty.
Marty and I have been long distance our whole relationship. When I lived up north, I was able to see him every weekend and sometimes during the week if he was driving down for work or if there was a holiday or something. I had already decided to attend SUU when I met Marty, but we agreed that we could handle distance. It was a hard change even though we were already apart during the week and it definitely took some getting used to. But now, our relationship is really strong and we have developed awesome communication skills.
Our weekend started late Friday afternoon. I was thrilled for a little break from school. Last week I had two essays due, a fiction story, and a presentation- such an awful week! I was so excited for a little time with Marty after a long, sleepless, and stressful week. Friday was spent making delicious teriyaki chicken, snuggling, and watching basketball and of course... Fox news. In case you're wondering, Marty definitely picked what we watched. It was pretty low key but it was so fun to cook together and spend a lazy evening together.
Saturday was more eventful. We started our day late because Mr. Marty likes to sleep. A lot. I tried to wake him up with breakfast in bed (which worked until he was done eating) but was not successful. While Marty was asleep, I cleaned the kitchen, folded laundry, and did the dishes. When he finally work up, we got ready and had some lunch. We went to a little place called Slurps Up, kind of like Swig although not as yummy. Then I gave Marty a little tour of SUU. I showed him all around campus and inside all of the buildings that were unlocked. It was fun to show him around the place I spend most of my time. After, we headed back to my apartment to work on wedding invitations. (47 days guys, it's coming soon!) Then we went to Applebee's, our favorite date, and brought it home to watch the games. After, we watched Frozen and made cookies that we ate with ice cream. We had such a fun day full of high calorie food and high quality laughs.
Sunday was hard, as they usually are when I have to say "see ya later" to Marty. Goodbye's are getting crazy difficult lately. Marty slept in late while I read a little and spent some time on Pinterest. When he finally woke up, it was almost time for him to leave. His parents were on their way and offered to take us to lunch. I was so happy for some extra time with Marty as well as his cute parents. After we finished at Ihop, it was time for goodbye. I've never been good at them, and I hate watching him go after we have had such a fun weekend. I was really sad, but then I started to think of all the reasons why I'm so excited to get married. I began to notice a lot of these this weekend.
1. I will always have someone to cook with or for. I loved having Marty around to help me cook or just knowing that I wouldn't have to eat alone.
2. I will have a grocery shopping buddy. Marty ran to Wal-Mart for ice cream and juice and it was so fun! It was nice not having to go alone and picking everything out by myself.
3. I will have someone to get ready with. It was so fun sharing the mirror as Marty brushed his teeth and I was doing my hair. It was so fun to talk to him while I got ready and to have someone there to tell me how beautiful he thought I was when I was all ready.
4. I loved being able to surprise him with breakfast in bed. Its such a small and easy way to show someone that you love them. I can't wait until I can show small acts of kindness, love, and service to him daily.
5. I am so excited to see him everyday.
Marty and I have been long distance our whole relationship. When I lived up north, I was able to see him every weekend and sometimes during the week if he was driving down for work or if there was a holiday or something. I had already decided to attend SUU when I met Marty, but we agreed that we could handle distance. It was a hard change even though we were already apart during the week and it definitely took some getting used to. But now, our relationship is really strong and we have developed awesome communication skills.
Our weekend started late Friday afternoon. I was thrilled for a little break from school. Last week I had two essays due, a fiction story, and a presentation- such an awful week! I was so excited for a little time with Marty after a long, sleepless, and stressful week. Friday was spent making delicious teriyaki chicken, snuggling, and watching basketball and of course... Fox news. In case you're wondering, Marty definitely picked what we watched. It was pretty low key but it was so fun to cook together and spend a lazy evening together. Saturday was more eventful. We started our day late because Mr. Marty likes to sleep. A lot. I tried to wake him up with breakfast in bed (which worked until he was done eating) but was not successful. While Marty was asleep, I cleaned the kitchen, folded laundry, and did the dishes. When he finally work up, we got ready and had some lunch. We went to a little place called Slurps Up, kind of like Swig although not as yummy. Then I gave Marty a little tour of SUU. I showed him all around campus and inside all of the buildings that were unlocked. It was fun to show him around the place I spend most of my time. After, we headed back to my apartment to work on wedding invitations. (47 days guys, it's coming soon!) Then we went to Applebee's, our favorite date, and brought it home to watch the games. After, we watched Frozen and made cookies that we ate with ice cream. We had such a fun day full of high calorie food and high quality laughs. Sunday was hard, as they usually are when I have to say "see ya later" to Marty. Goodbye's are getting crazy difficult lately. Marty slept in late while I read a little and spent some time on Pinterest. When he finally woke up, it was almost time for him to leave. His parents were on their way and offered to take us to lunch. I was so happy for some extra time with Marty as well as his cute parents. After we finished at Ihop, it was time for goodbye. I've never been good at them, and I hate watching him go after we have had such a fun weekend. I was really sad, but then I started to think of all the reasons why I'm so excited to get married. I began to notice a lot of these this weekend.1. I will always have someone to cook with or for. I loved having Marty around to help me cook or just knowing that I wouldn't have to eat alone.
2. I will have a grocery shopping buddy. Marty ran to Wal-Mart for ice cream and juice and it was so fun! It was nice not having to go alone and picking everything out by myself.
3. I will have someone to get ready with. It was so fun sharing the mirror as Marty brushed his teeth and I was doing my hair. It was so fun to talk to him while I got ready and to have someone there to tell me how beautiful he thought I was when I was all ready.
4. I loved being able to surprise him with breakfast in bed. Its such a small and easy way to show someone that you love them. I can't wait until I can show small acts of kindness, love, and service to him daily.
5. I am so excited to see him everyday.
Thursday, March 20, 2014
Hair Growth Month 2
Like I promised, I am going to report on my hair growth journey. Not much in my process has changed- I'm still using Mane n' Tail and coconut oil once a week. I shower at night so my hair can air dry and I can skip the blow-dryer. I avoid straightening when possible and other heat tools. I also have only been washing my hair 2-3 times a week. Gross? At first, yes. But as my hair adjusted I noticed a big difference in my hair. The biggest difference I have noticed is the texture of my hair. It is no longer limp, really dry, or stringy. Instead, it has more volume, its lush, and my yucky dry ends are finally healing up. Also, did you know coconut oil is a natural remedy for dry and damaged scalp? My scalp is so much healthier and we all know that healthy hair comes from a healthy foundation. Scalp health is important in our efforts to grow long and luscious locks. 
Many of you have asked how to apply coconut oil to your hair. First things first- don't warm it up! Its super messy if you try to apply liquid oil to your hair. Heating it wont harm the oil and can actually speed up many of the enzymes and nutrients that help your hair. However, I have found that its best to just scoop some of the solid oil out and just rub in onto dry hair. The heat of your body and the rubbing with heat it up enough to liquefy and spread evenly throughout your hair. You can even use a blow dryer on low heat to heat up the oil on your hair after if is applied. Your hair should be so oily that it looks wet, like in the picture to the right. I usually sleep in the oil and just wrap my hair in plastic wrap or an old towel or shirt. You don't need to sleep in it, just be sure to keep it in for at least 2 hours to reap all the lovely benefits of coconut oil. Also, be sure to use organic and virgin coconut oil as it does contain the highest amount of nutrients and will help your hair the most. So the results?
2 inches of hair growth when measure from a middle part down to the longest end. I measured barley under 19 inches- like 18.9. Compared to last months 17 inches, this is almost two full inches of new hair growth!
This is huge for me. I have been trying so hard to grow my hair out so a 2 inch growth in one month is huge! I can't say if it is more of the Mane n' Tail or coconut oil but both are helping tons! I also think that less heat and fewer washes is helping the health of my hair.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
Healthy Changes
In the past about 8 months, I have made some pretty significant changes in my diet and activity levels. I went from eating eh, ok and not exercising to eating lots of fruits, veggies, and proteins and running upwards of 5-8 miles a day. Its a huge change but I promise it did not happen over night. A lot of people have been asking me what I've been doing to lose weight but for me, I have learned that it is more important to be healthy rather than skinny. Due to all the questions, I thought I would write a blog post about how I have improved my health over the last eight months.
First things first, don't starve yourself. In fact, you're just causing more problems. If you're hungry, eat. Ignoring your body and not feeding it causes your body to think its starving so when you do eat, it hoards all the fats and calories more than it would have if you would have just eaten. Just eat- but only until satisfied, not stuffed. But on that note, eat healthy. Its so important to get good carbs, proteins, fruits, veggies, and so much water all crammed into your diet. Eat real food, not weird weight loss shakes and meals. Doing that is only making you unhealthy and chances are as soon as you quite these special drinks or foods, you will gain the weight back. Changing your eating habits won't happen quickly, it will instead take a lot of time and practice. What worked for me is the 20:80 rule. I know a lot of people only have "free days" once a week but when I was that restricted, I felt restless and wanted bad foods even more. Instead, I ate good foods 80% or the time and used the other 20% for less healthy eating. This also prevented me from splurging and eating horribly for a whole day.
The next important thing is exercise. Run, bike, lift weights, do strength exercises. All of these are so important in being healthy. I don't know much about ratios of cardio to weights, but I do know that they are super important. I personally run for about 45 minutes and do weights for another 30-40 minutes. Find what works best for you and I promise you will start to enjoy your work outs everyday. I, the girl who hated exercise, now love my time at the gym because its a time to unwind and focus solely on my body. Everyone needs and deserves this. Our bodies are amazing things and they deserve to be taken care of!
Now for the exciting part- the results! I'm timid to post this because I hate that I let myself become so
unhealthy, but it is such a motivation for me to keep going and working hard.
First things first, don't starve yourself. In fact, you're just causing more problems. If you're hungry, eat. Ignoring your body and not feeding it causes your body to think its starving so when you do eat, it hoards all the fats and calories more than it would have if you would have just eaten. Just eat- but only until satisfied, not stuffed. But on that note, eat healthy. Its so important to get good carbs, proteins, fruits, veggies, and so much water all crammed into your diet. Eat real food, not weird weight loss shakes and meals. Doing that is only making you unhealthy and chances are as soon as you quite these special drinks or foods, you will gain the weight back. Changing your eating habits won't happen quickly, it will instead take a lot of time and practice. What worked for me is the 20:80 rule. I know a lot of people only have "free days" once a week but when I was that restricted, I felt restless and wanted bad foods even more. Instead, I ate good foods 80% or the time and used the other 20% for less healthy eating. This also prevented me from splurging and eating horribly for a whole day.
The next important thing is exercise. Run, bike, lift weights, do strength exercises. All of these are so important in being healthy. I don't know much about ratios of cardio to weights, but I do know that they are super important. I personally run for about 45 minutes and do weights for another 30-40 minutes. Find what works best for you and I promise you will start to enjoy your work outs everyday. I, the girl who hated exercise, now love my time at the gym because its a time to unwind and focus solely on my body. Everyone needs and deserves this. Our bodies are amazing things and they deserve to be taken care of!
Now for the exciting part- the results! I'm timid to post this because I hate that I let myself become so
unhealthy, but it is such a motivation for me to keep going and working hard.
Isn't it crazy what 40 lbs. can do? the top picture was in October and the bottom was in February.
So..... my secret is.
Nothing. Eat well and exercise. Make healthy choices and always keep working, even when you don't see results of feel defeated. Change will come only if you are persistent! Not only will you see the change, but you will feel it! I have more energy and I have more confidence than I used to. I have a better attitude and I am much more able to work through hard things without giving up. Getting healthy is the best decision I could have made for myself.
Friday, February 28, 2014
"You're not a sad story. You're Alive"
My life hasn't been easy, and even that makes is sound nice. I know pain so deep that I could hardly move. I know what it feels like to be made fun of, to be bullied, to be alone, and to feel abandoned. I know what its like to fall asleep with tears in your eyes and the doubts of not being able to make it another day floating around in your head. I know what it feels like to be pushed and prodded because you're and easy target. I know what it feels like to watch your family fall apart. I know what it feels like to watch people you love fall apart. I know how badly life can hurt.
In my life, I have always struggled at making good friends. For some reason I always tend to be friends with people who belittled me and made me feel like they were better than me. Why I did this to myself I will never know, but I did. I remember one instance where someone was questioning why I was talking to another girl. They didn't know I was listening but her response was, "Its because neither of them have any friends," I was hurt. Here was a girl I looked up to that had no respect for me as a person. I continued to hear little biting comments her and her friends would make about me. I didn't see it at the time, but there was a small scale of emotional bullying going on. Even to my face, they would correct every little thing about me and always tell me that I wasn't good enough. I would hide the hurt form everyone, even my family because I didn't want them to know how hard it was. I didn't want people to know that people didn't like me and that they were mean. Still, I endured and tried to be nice because I thought that was right. Turns out, I was wrong.
I have many times been the backlash of other peoples hurt feelings or anger. I watched people I loved and who I thought were supposed to love me lash out on me like I was an awful human being. I have made plenty of mistakes just like everyone else but I was and sometimes still am under constant attack for trying to do my best. I have been pushed to my limits many times simply because I wasn't doing what they thought I should or what they wanted me to do. I watched my self esteem dwindle down to almost nothing as I tried and tired to pick myself back up every time they pushed me down. It was exhausting and I was losing terribly.
At one point I didn't only have others working against me, but I had myself; and I still do have both of these forces working against me. I constantly pick at myself. If someone thinks less of me or says something rude, I think its my fault and that I deserve the harsh treatment. When I feel bad, I feel worse because I feel bad that I feel bad. I feel a constant need to apologize for being myself and doing what I want to with my life. I always feel like I am walking on eggshells to please others because I don't want to offend anyone. Really though, someone will always be offended by your choices.
Lately, it seems to have been getting worse. For a short period I thought I had a grasp on things only to regress back to how I used to be. I worry a lot about things I cant control and I always blame myself when others chose to speak unkind words to or about me or when they act harshly towards me. Its easy to fall into this trap, isn't it? I know what I'm feeling is bad because I know God loves us. Yes, we will feel sad and defeated no matter what but when we feel like we are worthless, that is Satan speaking to us. However, most of the time I don't know how to stop it. I find myself feeling so inadequate that I cry and hurt because I feel like its my fault I'm being treated this way. As hard as it is, I know deep down that I'm not. How others choose to treat me is reflection of them and not of myself. How others chose to act is not my fault. If you are being treated poorly and unkindly for no apparent reason, its not your fault either.
This relates so much to the story I talked about earlier.
The protagonist, Charlie, has also had a pretty terrible life. He has been coping with depression and at one point even tried to take his own life. He has even been sexually abused by his aunt which he hides form his family. When she dies, he feels responsible for her death because she was going to buy his birthday present and also because he wanted her to die. Although my life hasn't been this bad, I can relate. In the end, Charlie says something absolutely beautiful.
When I heard this line, a huge light clicked on for me. Isn't it amazing how we get answers to prayers in the least expected ways? Suddenly I realized that even though all these awful things have happened to me, I'm still alive. I also realized that its ok to feel this way. Its not my fault that I've had a rough road with the things my family has gone through and its not my fault when people choose to be mean to me. I cant control that. To heal, I have to feel the hurt but I have to cope with it and learn to recover. I need to rely on my loved ones and my Heavenly Father to help me carry this burden I've been given. I'm not my experiences and I get to chose who I want to be. I have come a long way with myself, but I still have such a long ways to go. But its ok because I get to learn. I get to learn how strong I really am, who my friends really are, but even better than both of those I get to learn who I am. I get to direct my own life and I get to chose how I handle all these awful things.
Like Charlie, it has taken some great people to show me how great life can be and how good I can be. I really owe so much to my sweet Marty. He is the one person I know will never doubt me and will never criticize me when I feel bad. Instead he show me why I am good and he loves me through all the hurt. I cant even begin to express how grateful I am to him and all his help through the difficult times the last 11 months. Like Mr. Anderson from the movie and book says, "We accept the love we think we deserve." Its been a long time coming, but I finally feel like I deserve to be loved and cherished.
If you are having a hard time, know that your not alone. I often think that no one will understand the pain I feel and I hide it. All I can say is stop it. Pray and talk about it to those you trust. Read about others experiences. But no matter what, don't give up. This life isn't easy, but when we learn to endure and rely on others for help, it becomes a beautiful journey.
Monday, February 24, 2014
20 Reasons Why 20 Will be the Greatest Year Yet
So to start off this post, I want to thank everyone for all the birthday fun and birthday wishes! I had a great weekend and I feel so blessed. This weekend was crammed to the max with fun (and unhealthy food) for my birthday. My cute fiancé, Marty was able to come down to West Jordan to celebrate with me and I was ecstatic. Friday, I drove up from Cedar City. I met my grandparents at their home. They treated me to a delicious Peruvian lunch and great company. I love my cute grandparents and it was so fun to spend some time with them. That night, I went with Marty and my siblings out to a pizza dinner with my dad and then we watched a movie. That was also super fun. On Saturday I celebrated with my mom. We went to lunch at Panda, The Sweet Tooth Fairy and also the Waffle Love truck. So much fun! Sunday was much less demanding but sad because I had to return home. Its always hard to come back after an enjoyable weekend.
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In celebration of my 20 years of life, I compiled a list that I wanted to share with you all.
20 Reasons why 20 will be the Greatest Year Yet
1. I get to get married! In just 82 stinking days, I get to marry my sweetheart.
2. I get to move out (again) but this time with the most awesome roommate of my choice. ;)
3. Marty and I get to go to Las Vegas for our honeymoon.
4. I get to start my last year of college! Holy smokes that crazy.
5. The epidemic of the small uncomfortable bed will be defeated. In other words, I get to leave my awful apartment bed.
6. No more long distance for Marty and me. Thank-freaking-goodness.
7. I get to look for a job! Ok, so looking isn't great, but I am excited to start working again.
8. During this year I wont have to take ANY general education courses at school.
9. I'm transferring (yet again) to a new university and I am pretty dang excited for it!
10. I get to change my last name,
11. I'm going to have the opportunity to read all sorts of lovely books through my last year of schooling.
12. As a wife, I'm going to develop my cooking skills. (I might even be able to convince that eating healthy can actually be yummy.)
13. Marty and I will be able to start developing our own traditions for us and our future family.
14. I get to be a newlywed. I get to learn all about (or at least some) being married and also, we get to live as minimalists. Yay for being newly married!
15. I get to write. I have made it a goal to develop my blog into something more successful and also to become a published writer. I get to use this year to keep practicing and developing my skills.
16. I will finally be able to see Marty every single day.
17. I get to live as a married student. Hard yes, but guys, I get to snuggle while I read and write papers. If that's not perfect, I don't know what is.
18. I get to enjoy life more through divorcing social media. Ok, I know that this is basically social media and no, I'm not deleting my Facebook and instagram. I'm just going to try and spend less time on them so I can be more fully present in my life and in the world.
19. I get to move away from Cedar City which means no more 3 hours drives 2-3 times a month.
20. I get to work on becoming a better version of myself physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
I have a feeling that 20 is going to be the best year yet!
Monday, February 17, 2014
Simple Beauties
Anyone who knows me knows how much I adore Zooey Deschanel. (She's gorgeous, lovely, funny, brilliant, and talented- What's not to love?) I found this quote about a year ago and it really touched my heart. It seemed so absolutely applicable and even now this quote fits into and inspires my life. Its simply amazing.
I can't say enough how amazing my life is, and how breath-taking the world we live in is. Recently my life has been changing faster than I can think. The life I used to be apart of has moved on and I have taken on a much better and more beautiful life. Its no surprise that one of the biggest changes coming my way is my upcoming marriage to my incredible fiancé. Its easy to be overwhelmed and stressed about everything (especially because I have such an anxious and high-stress personality), but I am trying to take in every little detail and second and enjoy. When you realize that you will never get to experience this part of your life again, you realize that you should take in every single tiny thing that you can. Life will suddenly become less mundane and you will realize how beautiful your life is; you will realize how wonderfully blessed you really are.
This last weekend I was lucky enough to go wedding dress shopping. It may be silly of cliché, but I have dreamed about that day since I was little. I always pictured a gorgeous dress to wear on my perfect wedding day. With the first dress I tried one, I became a bit overwhelmed with emotions and got a bit teary eyed. I was embarrassed, but I was just so excited. Seeing myself in a wedding dress made me so excited for my wedding and was exciting because I had always dreamed of that day. I felt so beautiful and so blessed. It was a lovely day. (p.s. we found a beautiful dress. I can't wait to wear it (: )
I bring this up because I feel it correlates directly with this quote. Why do we as people dismiss emotions for nothing or much less than they are? To some it may seem weak to weep over a wedding dress, but as a true expression why should it be suppressed? This is not only true for women, but of men too. I truly believe that true strength comes through vulnerability. Vulnerability happens when we let down our walls and let go of "social norms" to express or act in the ways that are true and personal to us. It is hard to do this, but I honestly believe that by doing so, we become stronger and more in tune with ourselves and others. Not only that, but we are blessed beyond measure with a stunning world and opportunities. We should never take it for granted. So go ahead, gawk at the pretty beach or cry when you hear a beautiful poem. This world is ours, and your life is what you make it. When we are surrounded with such beauty and experience bliss, why shouldn't we enjoy it fully? Wait don't answer, its a trick question. The answer is that we should.
For my fiction class, we are required to keep a writers notebook. In this, we write images, experiences, or anything else that moves us or makes us think in any way. Now, you don't have to carry it around like I do, but I would encourage you to try keeping a journal specifically for images and experiences that touch your soul or inspire you. We have so many beautiful sights and memories, so we might as well let them touch us to our bones and experience them with the fullness our abilities with the joyfulness intended for us.
I love my simply beautiful life.
I can't say enough how amazing my life is, and how breath-taking the world we live in is. Recently my life has been changing faster than I can think. The life I used to be apart of has moved on and I have taken on a much better and more beautiful life. Its no surprise that one of the biggest changes coming my way is my upcoming marriage to my incredible fiancé. Its easy to be overwhelmed and stressed about everything (especially because I have such an anxious and high-stress personality), but I am trying to take in every little detail and second and enjoy. When you realize that you will never get to experience this part of your life again, you realize that you should take in every single tiny thing that you can. Life will suddenly become less mundane and you will realize how beautiful your life is; you will realize how wonderfully blessed you really are.
This last weekend I was lucky enough to go wedding dress shopping. It may be silly of cliché, but I have dreamed about that day since I was little. I always pictured a gorgeous dress to wear on my perfect wedding day. With the first dress I tried one, I became a bit overwhelmed with emotions and got a bit teary eyed. I was embarrassed, but I was just so excited. Seeing myself in a wedding dress made me so excited for my wedding and was exciting because I had always dreamed of that day. I felt so beautiful and so blessed. It was a lovely day. (p.s. we found a beautiful dress. I can't wait to wear it (: )
I bring this up because I feel it correlates directly with this quote. Why do we as people dismiss emotions for nothing or much less than they are? To some it may seem weak to weep over a wedding dress, but as a true expression why should it be suppressed? This is not only true for women, but of men too. I truly believe that true strength comes through vulnerability. Vulnerability happens when we let down our walls and let go of "social norms" to express or act in the ways that are true and personal to us. It is hard to do this, but I honestly believe that by doing so, we become stronger and more in tune with ourselves and others. Not only that, but we are blessed beyond measure with a stunning world and opportunities. We should never take it for granted. So go ahead, gawk at the pretty beach or cry when you hear a beautiful poem. This world is ours, and your life is what you make it. When we are surrounded with such beauty and experience bliss, why shouldn't we enjoy it fully? Wait don't answer, its a trick question. The answer is that we should.
For my fiction class, we are required to keep a writers notebook. In this, we write images, experiences, or anything else that moves us or makes us think in any way. Now, you don't have to carry it around like I do, but I would encourage you to try keeping a journal specifically for images and experiences that touch your soul or inspire you. We have so many beautiful sights and memories, so we might as well let them touch us to our bones and experience them with the fullness our abilities with the joyfulness intended for us.
I love my simply beautiful life.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Why We Work
I saw another blogger post about why her relationship "worked" in the sprit of Valentine's Day and challenged others to do the same.
I figured hey, why not? I love my cute fiancé and this just gives me another excuse to write about how great he is! Plus, I'm in the sappy "I'm getting married" part of life so he is my favorite thing to talk about, after all.
We work because he listens to me, no matter how dumb or irrational I am being.
We work because we communicate. Communication is huge for us as most of our relationship has been spent long distance. I trust that I can tell him absolutely anything.
We work because he never tells me I'm wrong, he only points out a better way to think about things. (Which usually leads me to understand that I am, indeed, wrong.)
We work because he shares his candy with me.... trust me, this boy loooooves his sweets. It's a big deal.
We work because I cant get enough of his handsome little smirks and blue eyes.
We work because I catch him smiling at me for no reason and because I also love to look at him. He is the reason I am always smiling.
We work because we aren't afraid of feelings. Both of us are comfortable telling each other how we feel, good or bad.
We work because we ALWAYS make each other our first priority. Even almost 6 hours apart, we always make time for each other. Also on that note, thank goodness for Skype! (:
We work because he holds my hand in the car.
We work because we think all the same silly things are funny, and he is the only person who almost always laughs at my jokes. I'm really not that funny, but Marty always thinks I am.
We work cause we make ugly and silly faces at each other for fun.
We work because we never stop laughing. We can be doing absolutely nothing, and we always ending up laughing and having the time of our lives.
We work because he always lets me try his more yummy dinner when I order something of the healthier variety.
We work because we laugh at each others quirks.
We work because he laughs at my goofy lazy eye and I laugh about his sleepy faces. (Seriously though, this boy kills me with his early morning faces. They are stinking adorable!)
We work because he doesn't laugh at me when beautiful words or things move me to tears. Instead he smiles and squeezes my hand or pulls me close.
We work because he watches all my favorite chick flicks with me as long as I watch his favorite action movies with him.
We work because he lets me read when we snuggle.
We works because when I fall asleep on him, he doesn't move, even when his arms are asleep.
We work because we are grateful for each other. We know that meeting was not coincidence we are grateful to our Heavenly Father for bringing us together.
We work because we both make mistakes. Neither of us are perfect, but we always seem to love each other through the mistakes and hard times.
We work because I'm overly sensitive, and he is more reasonable with his feelings.
We work because he makes fun of all the clothes I have, and I make fun of all the guns he has. He goes shopping with me and I go shooting with him.
We work because we love each other more than anything, and it only continues to grow.
I hope you enjoyed my cheesy post and also learned a bit about our relationship (: I challenge you to make your own list- to post or to share with your significant other. Happy Valentine's Day! Especially to that cute boy I'm writing about- Love you, babe!
I figured hey, why not? I love my cute fiancé and this just gives me another excuse to write about how great he is! Plus, I'm in the sappy "I'm getting married" part of life so he is my favorite thing to talk about, after all.
We work because he listens to me, no matter how dumb or irrational I am being.
We work because we communicate. Communication is huge for us as most of our relationship has been spent long distance. I trust that I can tell him absolutely anything.
We work because he never tells me I'm wrong, he only points out a better way to think about things. (Which usually leads me to understand that I am, indeed, wrong.)
We work because he shares his candy with me.... trust me, this boy loooooves his sweets. It's a big deal.
We work because I cant get enough of his handsome little smirks and blue eyes.
We work because I catch him smiling at me for no reason and because I also love to look at him. He is the reason I am always smiling.
We work because we aren't afraid of feelings. Both of us are comfortable telling each other how we feel, good or bad.
We work because we ALWAYS make each other our first priority. Even almost 6 hours apart, we always make time for each other. Also on that note, thank goodness for Skype! (:We work because he holds my hand in the car.
We work because we think all the same silly things are funny, and he is the only person who almost always laughs at my jokes. I'm really not that funny, but Marty always thinks I am.
We work cause we make ugly and silly faces at each other for fun.
We work because we never stop laughing. We can be doing absolutely nothing, and we always ending up laughing and having the time of our lives.
We work because he always lets me try his more yummy dinner when I order something of the healthier variety.
We work because we laugh at each others quirks.
We work because he laughs at my goofy lazy eye and I laugh about his sleepy faces. (Seriously though, this boy kills me with his early morning faces. They are stinking adorable!)
We work because he doesn't laugh at me when beautiful words or things move me to tears. Instead he smiles and squeezes my hand or pulls me close.
We work because he watches all my favorite chick flicks with me as long as I watch his favorite action movies with him.
We work because he lets me read when we snuggle.
We works because when I fall asleep on him, he doesn't move, even when his arms are asleep.
We work because we are grateful for each other. We know that meeting was not coincidence we are grateful to our Heavenly Father for bringing us together.
We work because we both make mistakes. Neither of us are perfect, but we always seem to love each other through the mistakes and hard times.
We work because I'm overly sensitive, and he is more reasonable with his feelings.
We work because he makes fun of all the clothes I have, and I make fun of all the guns he has. He goes shopping with me and I go shooting with him.
We work because we love each other more than anything, and it only continues to grow.
I hope you enjoyed my cheesy post and also learned a bit about our relationship (: I challenge you to make your own list- to post or to share with your significant other. Happy Valentine's Day! Especially to that cute boy I'm writing about- Love you, babe!
Monday, February 10, 2014
Hair Growth: Month One
First off, I need to apologize for my extreme lack of new posts. I am not the greatest at this blogging thing yet but I am hoping I will improve over time (:
As many of you know, I have this awful habit of growing out my hair then chopping it all off quite drastically. Then, I regret it and try really really hard to grow it back out. Its like one long and dangerous cycle that seriously never ends. Unfortunately for me, I am in the awkward stages of wanting to grow my hair out and trying all sorts of new ways to make it healthy and strong. So, here goes nothing. I am going to keep a monthly update on my hair, what I am doing to it, and how quickly it is growing. I'm hoping that by sharing my success (at least I hope that will be the result) of hair growth that I will be more responsible in my choices of chopping it off spontaneously.
Month One
-Shampoo and Conditioner: Mane N Tail Original
-Treatments: Organic virgin coconut oil
-Eliminated blow drying
-minimized straightening and curling
-trying to eliminate teasing and excess brushing/combing
Measurements:
From middle part to longest point- 17 inches.
I've been researching hair growth like crazy and these things plus a healthy diet and plenty of water seem to be working for people. However, Mane n Tail doesn't work for everyone because it does contain sulfates. I personally try to avoid sulfates because they strip the natural oils of your hair. However, this shampoo only contains one and also contains something to counteract the sulfate so it doesn't strip your hair. (or so their website says in much more scientific terms) I've been using the shampoo for a little less than a month and my hair is really soft and shiny so it seems to work for me. Usually when I use sulfate shampoos I have to wash my hair everyday because it gets greasy faster but I can still go my usual 2-3 days between washes with this shampoo. Its not drying out my hair either- but I think some of that is because I use coconut oil once a week. I will make another post in about a month similar to this one with measurements on how the growing process is going. If you have any awesome hair tips fell free to leave them in the comments. Until next time.... (:
As many of you know, I have this awful habit of growing out my hair then chopping it all off quite drastically. Then, I regret it and try really really hard to grow it back out. Its like one long and dangerous cycle that seriously never ends. Unfortunately for me, I am in the awkward stages of wanting to grow my hair out and trying all sorts of new ways to make it healthy and strong. So, here goes nothing. I am going to keep a monthly update on my hair, what I am doing to it, and how quickly it is growing. I'm hoping that by sharing my success (at least I hope that will be the result) of hair growth that I will be more responsible in my choices of chopping it off spontaneously.
Month One-Shampoo and Conditioner: Mane N Tail Original
-Treatments: Organic virgin coconut oil
-Eliminated blow drying
-minimized straightening and curling
-trying to eliminate teasing and excess brushing/combing
Measurements:
From middle part to longest point- 17 inches.
I've been researching hair growth like crazy and these things plus a healthy diet and plenty of water seem to be working for people. However, Mane n Tail doesn't work for everyone because it does contain sulfates. I personally try to avoid sulfates because they strip the natural oils of your hair. However, this shampoo only contains one and also contains something to counteract the sulfate so it doesn't strip your hair. (or so their website says in much more scientific terms) I've been using the shampoo for a little less than a month and my hair is really soft and shiny so it seems to work for me. Usually when I use sulfate shampoos I have to wash my hair everyday because it gets greasy faster but I can still go my usual 2-3 days between washes with this shampoo. Its not drying out my hair either- but I think some of that is because I use coconut oil once a week. I will make another post in about a month similar to this one with measurements on how the growing process is going. If you have any awesome hair tips fell free to leave them in the comments. Until next time.... (:
Thursday, January 16, 2014
A Real Man: Taught or Inherent?
First off, I should apologize for my lack of posts. I am still getting used to this whole school thing. I mean, I have been in college for 3 semesters (this being my 4th) but I am not used to the reading overload which is becoming my life. Don't get me wrong, I love it, its just really time consuming and hard to stay focused sometimes. Oh well, life of an English major I guess. (:
So my favorite class so far is definitely my literary genres class on American Naturalism. I know, the title sounds super daunting, but is absolutely fascinating. We have been reading from the novel,
The Red Badge of Courage. This book is set in the civil war and honestly, I can't say that I love it or that its my favorite, but the discussions my class has been having about it have really intrigued and inspired me.
Now is the part where I let all of you see my extremely dorky inner nerd. Anyone who knows me knows I am a bit of a feminist and also that gender studies absolutely interest me. I have always had strong opinions about gender roles and things like that, so when I get to discuss them in classes I am one happy college student. The protagonist in the book, Henry, struggles to be a "man" or what he thinks a man should be. He cowards away from the battles, but then is able to fake a wound and suddenly, he is brave and a "man." We talked a lot in class today about why this is. Its so interesting that we live in a world that falls into a false social construct of what a man should be.
Our society thinks a man...
-should be brave, not afraid of anything
-should be tough. They don't cry because that what girls do
-is insensitive, because being sensitive or emotional is a weak feminine thing to do.
-should love sports
-should love guns, camping, anything of that sort
-be a provider and protector- thats it. housework and home making is for women.
The list goes on and on.
(sorry in advance for the few expletives used in this video)
Today in my discussion and studies, I was realizing how much of this is trained. Boys aren't born thinking they can't cry or thinking they have to be tough, or any of the other things. These things are all taught. Boys are the way they are because we teach them to fit into this social construct that has been around forever. For me personally, I do believe that men and women have different roles and traits but to what extent are they inherent or taught? Because of my religious background and upbringing, I believe man and woman are very different in their roles and ways, but I am not positive as to what is taught and what isn't, I believe woman naturally have a more nurturing aspect than men, but I am still unclear on this fine line. Thoughts? This blog post isn't really me sharing what I've learned, but mostly to help me to learn. Your comments would be greatly appreciated.
So my favorite class so far is definitely my literary genres class on American Naturalism. I know, the title sounds super daunting, but is absolutely fascinating. We have been reading from the novel,
The Red Badge of Courage. This book is set in the civil war and honestly, I can't say that I love it or that its my favorite, but the discussions my class has been having about it have really intrigued and inspired me.
Now is the part where I let all of you see my extremely dorky inner nerd. Anyone who knows me knows I am a bit of a feminist and also that gender studies absolutely interest me. I have always had strong opinions about gender roles and things like that, so when I get to discuss them in classes I am one happy college student. The protagonist in the book, Henry, struggles to be a "man" or what he thinks a man should be. He cowards away from the battles, but then is able to fake a wound and suddenly, he is brave and a "man." We talked a lot in class today about why this is. Its so interesting that we live in a world that falls into a false social construct of what a man should be.
Our society thinks a man...
-should be brave, not afraid of anything
-should be tough. They don't cry because that what girls do
-is insensitive, because being sensitive or emotional is a weak feminine thing to do.
-should love sports
-should love guns, camping, anything of that sort
-be a provider and protector- thats it. housework and home making is for women.
The list goes on and on.
Today in my discussion and studies, I was realizing how much of this is trained. Boys aren't born thinking they can't cry or thinking they have to be tough, or any of the other things. These things are all taught. Boys are the way they are because we teach them to fit into this social construct that has been around forever. For me personally, I do believe that men and women have different roles and traits but to what extent are they inherent or taught? Because of my religious background and upbringing, I believe man and woman are very different in their roles and ways, but I am not positive as to what is taught and what isn't, I believe woman naturally have a more nurturing aspect than men, but I am still unclear on this fine line. Thoughts? This blog post isn't really me sharing what I've learned, but mostly to help me to learn. Your comments would be greatly appreciated.
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