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Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Our First Christmas Tree
Yay! Our first Christmas Tree! We were really lucky, we got Braden's sisters' old tree and it fits' perfectly in our apartment! Our ceiling isn't that tall, the tree is a 7 footer. Then, second bit of luck was that Tim and DeLanea (Braden's parents) gave us our Christmas present early and took us to Walmart to pick out our ornaments. I have always loved those really fancy trees and I married into the perfect family for that. Jenell, Braden's sister worked at an interior decorating store and that was her job for the Holidays. She did our tree, hers, and Britney's (Braden's other sister). She wants to start a business decorating trees - I think she'd do great! The night she decorated it, we had the whole family over and we all helped while we watched Christmas with the Kranks, I was going to take a picture of the event but forgot until after everyone left.
Having the tree lit every night is so calming and really getting me in the mood for Christmas - since the weather doesn't point to the season being here at all (not that I'm complaining.) :)
Speaking of the lights on the Christmas tree, I LOVED what President Uchtdorf said tonight in the Christmas Devotional. He talked so wonderfully of our Savior and of the Christmas season. He started his talk by saying how, "as a child I associated Christmas with light. As I have grown in my understanding of the Gospel, I'm even more convinced that Christmas truly is about light...Let us ever remember that Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. May we remember the humble dignity of His birth, His gifts and His life. May we, through our simple acts, of kindness, charity, and compassion, fill the world with the light of His love and His healing power. I testify that Jesus the Christ lives today." If you click on the above "Christmas Devotional," you can watch the entire thing, or click on Dieter F. Uchtdorf's talk and just watch that. It was truly inspirational.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Next 4 Years
Well, if you have paid any attention at all to the news as of late, you know that our country will see its first African-American president, Barack Obama. I love the fact that we have really embraced, or at least made another huge step towards true multiculturalism, but there is more that we need to be aware of than just one's race. Now, I wish I could join in with half the country and say I'm excited about the next four years, but I have to be honest and say that Obama's "change" is not the kind I'm looking forward to.
Ok, ok. Before a lot of you go off spewing out threats and wondering how in the world I am against change, let me tell you that I'm all for change, but no matter how you look at it, any of the candidates would be able to change what we currently have. That's not to say that President Bush is a bad president. Sure he has made some poor decisions, but heaven forbid he makes mistakes. Further, heaven forbid he actually attacks many of the problems that are facing our country. Too many people would not have done what he did and who knows what the outcome would be if we just stood still and let bad people do what they wanted. Maybe its not seen now, but in the future sometime, we'll look back and really see the good that Bush has done.
As far as other political ideas go, I'm glad that Prop 8 in California passed. A similar proposition passed also in Arizona and, if I remember right, a couple of other states. It's really comforting to know that there are still people that believe in true family values. I'll even take it as far as there are still people who believe in God, a figure that is seemingly getting crowded out of our country's interests. With that, may I turn your attention to the Book of Ether, found only in the Book of Mormon. For those of you unfamiliar with the Book, the people in the Book of Ether are some of the first people to inhabit the American continent. But it wasn't just that they were here and they lived. The following is a few verses from chapter 2:
And now, we can behold the decrees of God concerning this land, that it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity.
For behold, this is a land which is choice above all other lands; wherefore he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall be swept off; for it is the everlasting decree of God. And it is not until the fulness of iniquity among the children of the land, that they are swept off.
And this cometh unto you, O ye Gentiles, that ye may know the decrees of God—that ye may repent, and not continue in your iniquities until the fulness come, that ye may not bring down the fulness of the wrath of God upon you as the inhabitants of the land have hitherto done.
Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written.
The other night, when Jen and I were discussing this topic, it came to our minds that throughout the Christian timeline, whether in the Bible or the Book of Mormon, the times when society has been its most wicked, the times when people have forgotten God, there have been many prophets sent to declare repentance. Today there is a living prophet, Thomas S. Monson. However, he alone can't go throughout the world and especially throughout this nation and declare repentance. I assure you he is doing that where he goes, but to have the impact of the prophets of old, the call goes out to us. We must be the source of truth and light. We need to, more so now than ever before, to make our voices heard. We need to stand up for that which we believe in. We need to enforce the principles and fundamentals upon which this country was founded. If we but remember God and serve him, no matter what your faith may be, then the promise is there. We will be fine and we'll have nothing to worry about.
In closing (I know this is terribly long) may I just say that I will support President Obama as far as what he does is in the best interest of the country, as long as what he does will reinforce the almost lost principles the Founding Father once declared. Will he be perfect? No, he's human. Unfortunately, there will still be people who worry about their mortgages. People will still wonder how they will afford gas. Rich people will still get rich and poor people will still be poor. God gave us our agency. If we rely on the government to act upon our agency for us, then we have completely misunderstood our purpose here on earth. I believe in this country. I believe in the ability of good people to do what's right. As mentioned above, the opportunity is ours to make the difference - to make the change Obama foresees. But, in the end, we need to make sure that we are serving our Heavenly Father, for only then are we promised freedom and success.
Thank you.
Ok, ok. Before a lot of you go off spewing out threats and wondering how in the world I am against change, let me tell you that I'm all for change, but no matter how you look at it, any of the candidates would be able to change what we currently have. That's not to say that President Bush is a bad president. Sure he has made some poor decisions, but heaven forbid he makes mistakes. Further, heaven forbid he actually attacks many of the problems that are facing our country. Too many people would not have done what he did and who knows what the outcome would be if we just stood still and let bad people do what they wanted. Maybe its not seen now, but in the future sometime, we'll look back and really see the good that Bush has done.
As far as other political ideas go, I'm glad that Prop 8 in California passed. A similar proposition passed also in Arizona and, if I remember right, a couple of other states. It's really comforting to know that there are still people that believe in true family values. I'll even take it as far as there are still people who believe in God, a figure that is seemingly getting crowded out of our country's interests. With that, may I turn your attention to the Book of Ether, found only in the Book of Mormon. For those of you unfamiliar with the Book, the people in the Book of Ether are some of the first people to inhabit the American continent. But it wasn't just that they were here and they lived. The following is a few verses from chapter 2:
And now, we can behold the decrees of God concerning this land, that it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity.
For behold, this is a land which is choice above all other lands; wherefore he that doth possess it shall serve God or shall be swept off; for it is the everlasting decree of God. And it is not until the fulness of iniquity among the children of the land, that they are swept off.
And this cometh unto you, O ye Gentiles, that ye may know the decrees of God—that ye may repent, and not continue in your iniquities until the fulness come, that ye may not bring down the fulness of the wrath of God upon you as the inhabitants of the land have hitherto done.
Behold, this is a choice land, and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall be free from bondage, and from captivity, and from all other nations under heaven, if they will but serve the God of the land, who is Jesus Christ, who hath been manifested by the things which we have written.
The other night, when Jen and I were discussing this topic, it came to our minds that throughout the Christian timeline, whether in the Bible or the Book of Mormon, the times when society has been its most wicked, the times when people have forgotten God, there have been many prophets sent to declare repentance. Today there is a living prophet, Thomas S. Monson. However, he alone can't go throughout the world and especially throughout this nation and declare repentance. I assure you he is doing that where he goes, but to have the impact of the prophets of old, the call goes out to us. We must be the source of truth and light. We need to, more so now than ever before, to make our voices heard. We need to stand up for that which we believe in. We need to enforce the principles and fundamentals upon which this country was founded. If we but remember God and serve him, no matter what your faith may be, then the promise is there. We will be fine and we'll have nothing to worry about.
In closing (I know this is terribly long) may I just say that I will support President Obama as far as what he does is in the best interest of the country, as long as what he does will reinforce the almost lost principles the Founding Father once declared. Will he be perfect? No, he's human. Unfortunately, there will still be people who worry about their mortgages. People will still wonder how they will afford gas. Rich people will still get rich and poor people will still be poor. God gave us our agency. If we rely on the government to act upon our agency for us, then we have completely misunderstood our purpose here on earth. I believe in this country. I believe in the ability of good people to do what's right. As mentioned above, the opportunity is ours to make the difference - to make the change Obama foresees. But, in the end, we need to make sure that we are serving our Heavenly Father, for only then are we promised freedom and success.
Thank you.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Our Primary Class
Ok, so we finally have pictures of our primary class. We were missing Georgia today, but when they're all there, maybe we can have a big class picture. First there is Grace, then Page, Leah, and Debony. They all have such different and unique personalities, it is amazing to learn from them. They are all five and already know so much about the scriptures.
One time we were teaching that we need to obey the laws of the land. We asked what color meant stop - they all said "red." We then asked what color meant go. Debony said, "white!" :) What? We asked her what she meant. Very confidnetly and almost in a tone of "why are you asking," she said, "when there is a red hand it means stop, when there is a white person, you can walk." Smart!
Another time in church we asked Debony to say the closing prayer. She was so funny, she said, "...and please bless that we can have treats." :) Luckily we had cookies, but that was so funny.
Grace in our class is so fun and sweet, but she is also very sensative. One Sunday we didn't call on her to say a prayer and she didn't look up after the closing prayer - she was crying. We asked her what was wrong and through her tears she said she had wanted to say a prayer and she didn't get to. So we decided we would have her say the opening prayer the next Sunday, well we did and she said she didn't want to say the prayer...Oh, they are so fun.
Well, we'll keep you updated on other funny things they do. I know they aren't our kids so it's not as cool, but for now... :)
Oh, also, we should report on the Body Worlds exhibit we went to. I don't think I'll tell you what we saw cuz it sounds grose but it isn't - PROMISE! It's so cool and educational - we loved it. However, if you're planning on going, plan for 2 + hours, and of that it takes about 1/2 hour - 45 minutes to get through the lines - even with pre-purchased tickets. But, it's cool. Well, for now, take care and we'll write again.
One time we were teaching that we need to obey the laws of the land. We asked what color meant stop - they all said "red." We then asked what color meant go. Debony said, "white!" :) What? We asked her what she meant. Very confidnetly and almost in a tone of "why are you asking," she said, "when there is a red hand it means stop, when there is a white person, you can walk." Smart!
Another time in church we asked Debony to say the closing prayer. She was so funny, she said, "...and please bless that we can have treats." :) Luckily we had cookies, but that was so funny.
Grace in our class is so fun and sweet, but she is also very sensative. One Sunday we didn't call on her to say a prayer and she didn't look up after the closing prayer - she was crying. We asked her what was wrong and through her tears she said she had wanted to say a prayer and she didn't get to. So we decided we would have her say the opening prayer the next Sunday, well we did and she said she didn't want to say the prayer...Oh, they are so fun.
Well, we'll keep you updated on other funny things they do. I know they aren't our kids so it's not as cool, but for now... :)
Oh, also, we should report on the Body Worlds exhibit we went to. I don't think I'll tell you what we saw cuz it sounds grose but it isn't - PROMISE! It's so cool and educational - we loved it. However, if you're planning on going, plan for 2 + hours, and of that it takes about 1/2 hour - 45 minutes to get through the lines - even with pre-purchased tickets. But, it's cool. Well, for now, take care and we'll write again.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
37-inches of pure awesomeness!
Doesn't the title just say it all? :) That's right we made our purchase of our first 37-inches of pure awesomeness! And soon we will be watching TV in all of it's HD glory. We saved up all of our gift cards to Target that we got for our wedding and added a little that we saved and got the beast! She fills up the entire space on our entertainment center, minus 1/4 in on each side! Previously, we had a nice, silver, 13 inch TV but now we don't have to lean forward to watch a movie! It was funny because the day it came, Braden was home and got it all put together before work. It was the Friday after we got back from Oregon, the TV wasn't scheduled to come until the next Monday or Tuesday. I rushed home to get ready because we were meeting Braden's family at the Timpanogos Temple. I ran in and said Hello to Braden and he was all smiling, I made a comment about him being happy and asked what was up, "Nothing." was his reply. Then I was getting ready and he came in the bedroom, again ALL smiles, "what?" I asked. "Nothing" he replied! :) So, I continued. He just kept looking at me and smiling, so I finally went over to him and said something like, "Ok, something is up, what?" He asked why anything would be up. I told him it was because he was SO happy. He said he was always like that but I didn't buy it. I was finally ready and I said, "Ok, let's go!" He just stayed in the living room on the couch. I went in, and you could guess, still smiling. "Ok, something is up!" I went in the kitchen to see if something had changed - then I saw the VIZIO pamphlets on the table. THE TV! :) I looked in the living room - past Braden and YEP, There was the TV - Big, Black, and filling up the entire entertainment center. How did I miss i? The TV came I said - YES!!!! Braden said. Man it sure took me long enough! But it was fun and we love it now. Now we're just waiting for the TV connection - we're going with Dish.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
ORYGUN
I know. I know. It's been awhile. Ever since school started (I'm back at Boy You're Ugly) things have been pretty crazy. But, we do have a lot to share with you because the last few weeks have been pretty eventful.
For starters, we should probably tell you about our trip to Oregon. It was Jen's maiden voyage to the Treehugger state. In the short 5 days we were there, she got a pretty good shellacking of very non-Utah culture and a pretty severe case of Duck fever. It didn't start out, though, as all fun and games (Jen learned to play Ripple!). After being (Grandpa was driving) in the car for 8 hrs on a trip that usually takes 5, we were spent. It was nice in good ol' Nampa, Idaho. We stayed at my Aunt Jean and Uncle Steve's place. Too make that long story short, they got a new 4-wheeler and wanted us to take it for a spin. I glady accepted and took it by myself for a good 20 min. ride around farm land. The view wasn't much, but it was a fun ride. I came back and got Jen and we headed out again. All of the sudden, out of nowhere, when we were in the middle of a dusty farm road, a huge dust storm hit and we were getting pelted by dust at, like, 30 mph. It was crazy. Well, we eventually go back safe but not after getting sand blasted.
Well, the next day saw green like you only see in pictures in Utah. Trees were everywhere it was nice!! The place of my origin! We did lots of stuff. We ate at Papa's Pizza (some of the best pizza, and a plain old tradition), played lots of Ripple, talked lots of football and went and saw the sites of Eugene. That took all of about a day. With nothing else to do, we went to the "Coast" which Jen thought was kind of funny because everyone calls it the coast. Not the beach, not the ocean - the coast. Anyways, that was fun except for the fact that it was all fogged in. But it was still, like Jen said, "Beautiful though." NOTE: Grandma got lost in the bushes trying to find a trail and got all cut up and muddy. We found her by the trail in her huge purple coat. It was really funny!!
Ok. After all of that, the day of days finally came. It was Saturday and Jen's hazing was almost complete. To be completely initiated into true Oregonianism, Jen had to see true liberals. A.K.A. hippies. So we went to the Saturday's Market in downtown Eugene. Among a lot of cool things to buy, we saw more dreads than Jamaica, a man in a dress, a guy singing a song about people wearing shoes (all he said was, "He/she's wearing shoes" over and over again.) It took him 20 years to come up with those, so he said. A fully grown, straight man, was wearing a skirt and mid-drift t-shirt. Jen had never seen hairier legs - on women. And the air smelled so good that I can't really remember what happened for the next few hours. Maybe it was all the weed?! Once making it through that, Jen was ready - ready for her coronation into the family - The Duck game!
Without a doubt, this was the part Jen was most excited for. I was like, "Oh, it'll be pretty fun." But Jen showed me a side of her she has never shown, probably to anyone. She couldn't even sleep the night before. I don't know why. It was only a football game. She even wanted to paint her face. The game wasn't until 7pm but she insisted that we get there at 4 so we could see the team, hook up with some REAL tailgaters, and just see the stadium and everything. The best part was, once we got into the stadium, it didn't take long before we heard the student section taunting the Washington fan's and team by chanting, "F*** the Huskies!" over and over and over again. What surprised me the most is Jen's willingness to join into the ruckus. I had to hold her back and cover her mouth. It was embarrassing, but once she really got going, I couldn't do anything but join in also!! So there we were F***in the Huskies over and over and over again! It was great. Needless to say, the Ducks won their home and Pac-10 opener by a lot. It couldn't have been better! NOTE: The preceeding message was completely falsified. Braden was actually the excited one (in case you didn't already know) and there was no f***in from us. We promise.
The next day, we flew home, got to Utah in the worst rain storm it has ever seen, and slept at Joe and Kathy's place. Monday was Labor day, so we cleaned out the fridge, picked up Joe and Kathy from the airport, and enjoyed the rest of the day/holiday/vacation. The next day saw work and school and that's been the story ever since.
For starters, we should probably tell you about our trip to Oregon. It was Jen's maiden voyage to the Treehugger state. In the short 5 days we were there, she got a pretty good shellacking of very non-Utah culture and a pretty severe case of Duck fever. It didn't start out, though, as all fun and games (Jen learned to play Ripple!). After being (Grandpa was driving) in the car for 8 hrs on a trip that usually takes 5, we were spent. It was nice in good ol' Nampa, Idaho. We stayed at my Aunt Jean and Uncle Steve's place. Too make that long story short, they got a new 4-wheeler and wanted us to take it for a spin. I glady accepted and took it by myself for a good 20 min. ride around farm land. The view wasn't much, but it was a fun ride. I came back and got Jen and we headed out again. All of the sudden, out of nowhere, when we were in the middle of a dusty farm road, a huge dust storm hit and we were getting pelted by dust at, like, 30 mph. It was crazy. Well, we eventually go back safe but not after getting sand blasted.
Well, the next day saw green like you only see in pictures in Utah. Trees were everywhere it was nice!! The place of my origin! We did lots of stuff. We ate at Papa's Pizza (some of the best pizza, and a plain old tradition), played lots of Ripple, talked lots of football and went and saw the sites of Eugene. That took all of about a day. With nothing else to do, we went to the "Coast" which Jen thought was kind of funny because everyone calls it the coast. Not the beach, not the ocean - the coast. Anyways, that was fun except for the fact that it was all fogged in. But it was still, like Jen said, "Beautiful though." NOTE: Grandma got lost in the bushes trying to find a trail and got all cut up and muddy. We found her by the trail in her huge purple coat. It was really funny!!
Ok. After all of that, the day of days finally came. It was Saturday and Jen's hazing was almost complete. To be completely initiated into true Oregonianism, Jen had to see true liberals. A.K.A. hippies. So we went to the Saturday's Market in downtown Eugene. Among a lot of cool things to buy, we saw more dreads than Jamaica, a man in a dress, a guy singing a song about people wearing shoes (all he said was, "He/she's wearing shoes" over and over again.) It took him 20 years to come up with those, so he said. A fully grown, straight man, was wearing a skirt and mid-drift t-shirt. Jen had never seen hairier legs - on women. And the air smelled so good that I can't really remember what happened for the next few hours. Maybe it was all the weed?! Once making it through that, Jen was ready - ready for her coronation into the family - The Duck game!
Without a doubt, this was the part Jen was most excited for. I was like, "Oh, it'll be pretty fun." But Jen showed me a side of her she has never shown, probably to anyone. She couldn't even sleep the night before. I don't know why. It was only a football game. She even wanted to paint her face. The game wasn't until 7pm but she insisted that we get there at 4 so we could see the team, hook up with some REAL tailgaters, and just see the stadium and everything. The best part was, once we got into the stadium, it didn't take long before we heard the student section taunting the Washington fan's and team by chanting, "F*** the Huskies!" over and over and over again. What surprised me the most is Jen's willingness to join into the ruckus. I had to hold her back and cover her mouth. It was embarrassing, but once she really got going, I couldn't do anything but join in also!! So there we were F***in the Huskies over and over and over again! It was great. Needless to say, the Ducks won their home and Pac-10 opener by a lot. It couldn't have been better! NOTE: The preceeding message was completely falsified. Braden was actually the excited one (in case you didn't already know) and there was no f***in from us. We promise.
The next day, we flew home, got to Utah in the worst rain storm it has ever seen, and slept at Joe and Kathy's place. Monday was Labor day, so we cleaned out the fridge, picked up Joe and Kathy from the airport, and enjoyed the rest of the day/holiday/vacation. The next day saw work and school and that's been the story ever since.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Update by Jen
Hello! I haven't written on here for a while, it's usually Braden :) which is great cuz he's really good at it. But, I thought I'd take a minute and update you all on our life.
Yesterday, Braden finished his finals and hence finished his Summer semester!!!! Whooo! He did so great in all of his classes, especially his industrial design drawing class. Now he has 3 weeks off and I know we are both going to really enjoy it. Especially because for a week of that time we get to go to Oregon, which I've never been to and it's where Braden grew up. The two highlights he's been talking about the most is a donut shop in Eugene and the opening Oregon Duck game which we will go to live!!!! - along with my first ever tailgate party. We will for sure post pictures when we get back.
We had both of our parents over for dinner this last weekend - My parents and the puppy came for Sunday dinner, and Braden's parents came for Monday dinner. We had so much fun! Both nights we played a game we got for our wedding - In a Pickle, both our dad's won! With my parents we checked out the highlights on YouTube of the TV show, "Wipeout." If you haven't seen it, it's so funny. Then on Monday night we watched a movie, Drillbit Taylor. It was funny with a moral of how the bully get's it in the end.
I know I'm going backwards but that is how my mind works! :) Sunday we also accepted our calling in church to be Primary teachers. We teach three little girls - they are about 5 or 6 years old. Only two of them were there this last week, Page and Grace. Again, we'll take pictures and post them.
Last bit of news is that one year ago Braden and I met. I can't believe it's been a year. I have so much to be grateful for and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in my life than in our basement apartment with my wonderful wonderful husband, Braden. I don't know how I got so lucky. We tell each other we were good missionaries - cuz as I heard the Elder's say a lot, "gotta work hard for those "Hot Wife" points" - or in my case "Hot Hubby" points! :) Yep, I must have worked dang hard! It's been a great year, I'm so grateful to our Heavenly Father for bringing us together and that we are now an Eternal Family.
Until next post, we love you all TONS and hope to see and hear from you all soon. Oh, and thanks for voting on our new hair. Braden actually has even newer hair now. He buzzed it for the summer - I think it looks hot! :) K, C-Ya!
Yesterday, Braden finished his finals and hence finished his Summer semester!!!! Whooo! He did so great in all of his classes, especially his industrial design drawing class. Now he has 3 weeks off and I know we are both going to really enjoy it. Especially because for a week of that time we get to go to Oregon, which I've never been to and it's where Braden grew up. The two highlights he's been talking about the most is a donut shop in Eugene and the opening Oregon Duck game which we will go to live!!!! - along with my first ever tailgate party. We will for sure post pictures when we get back.
We had both of our parents over for dinner this last weekend - My parents and the puppy came for Sunday dinner, and Braden's parents came for Monday dinner. We had so much fun! Both nights we played a game we got for our wedding - In a Pickle, both our dad's won! With my parents we checked out the highlights on YouTube of the TV show, "Wipeout." If you haven't seen it, it's so funny. Then on Monday night we watched a movie, Drillbit Taylor. It was funny with a moral of how the bully get's it in the end.
I know I'm going backwards but that is how my mind works! :) Sunday we also accepted our calling in church to be Primary teachers. We teach three little girls - they are about 5 or 6 years old. Only two of them were there this last week, Page and Grace. Again, we'll take pictures and post them.
Last bit of news is that one year ago Braden and I met. I can't believe it's been a year. I have so much to be grateful for and I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in my life than in our basement apartment with my wonderful wonderful husband, Braden. I don't know how I got so lucky. We tell each other we were good missionaries - cuz as I heard the Elder's say a lot, "gotta work hard for those "Hot Wife" points" - or in my case "Hot Hubby" points! :) Yep, I must have worked dang hard! It's been a great year, I'm so grateful to our Heavenly Father for bringing us together and that we are now an Eternal Family.
Until next post, we love you all TONS and hope to see and hear from you all soon. Oh, and thanks for voting on our new hair. Braden actually has even newer hair now. He buzzed it for the summer - I think it looks hot! :) K, C-Ya!
It's Summer Time!!
Ok. I know what most of you are thinking. You're thinking, "What the crud Braden, it's been summer for, like, the last 3 months." I know. But, for me, today is the first day of summer!!! See, for the last calender year, I have been a faithful member of BYU classrooms. That's right. I have been going to school. But yesterday, I finished my finals (did pretty well too!) and today, well, today I get to do pretty much nothing - only what I want to. I'll be spending the next couple of weeks sleeping in, making movies, writing books and reports (that's my job), paying serious attention to the olympics (we don't have cable so I'll watch it online), watching a lot of movies, going to Oregon, seeing the Ducks play, spending time with Jen not doing quizzes, and more. Then, when all that is done, guess what? Back to school. Yup, only two weeks for me. But hey, come April, I'm done! Anyways, I just wanted to let you all know. I hope you all have had a nice summer. Peace.
p.s. don't you just love the picture?
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Do the Do!
So, it wasn't but a week ago that Jen and I had our one month anniversary. I know I know, a lot of you are saying, "Whoopdeedo. It's a month." But if you really think about it, many marriages, especially celebrity marriages, don't last that long. So I think that we're doing DANG good! Anyways, for our anniversary, we decided to get new hairdo's. Jen cut her hair short, which I love! I darkened my hair up a bit. So, it's somethin' different for the both of us. Let us know what you think!
Monday, July 14, 2008
Wedding Day!
Alright, I know that some of you have been anxiously waiting to see some pictures from our wedding day. So here are some. I hope that you enjoy them. They really turned out nicely. Our photographer, Joanna Taylor, did an amazing job. I recommend her to any who are looking!
Needless to say, the day was perfect! We couldn't have asked for a better day! Thanks to everyone was able to come to the temple. We love you all. Stay tuned for more pics from the reception and BBQ!
Needless to say, the day was perfect! We couldn't have asked for a better day! Thanks to everyone was able to come to the temple. We love you all. Stay tuned for more pics from the reception and BBQ!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Sorry about the wait!
Alright. I know that many if not most of you are just dying to see pictures and what-nots from the wedding. All I can say is just wait. We'll get some posts up, but pics might take another week or so. Also, if I can get the file small enough, I'll try to get some of the wedding video up. The last week has been absolutely amazing and perfect. Thanks to all those that helped and came. We love you all and we we'll get more up here soon!!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Bahstun
Hello, Greetings from Bahstun! We haven't written in a while cuz we've been so bussy! :) We just enjoyed an ahsum vacation in Massachusetts with Jen's family. Her Aunt and Uncle and Grandparents live on Cape Kahd (Cape Cod) out on the tip of Massachuestts. We left on Saturday the 7th early in the morning and flew to Denver and then to Baltimore and then arrived in Providence, Rhode Island. When we were down at baggage claim we heard our first really thick Bahstun accent - hence, the funny spelled words in this entry - we'll try and give you a sense of the culture. ha! It was then a two hour drive to the Cape - so it was a long but very fun day! We totally relaxed on Sunday and just enjoyed the family. Boy the humidity was amazing! Jen's hair got really frizzy! :) Monday was a packed day - we went in to Bahstun and took a tour of Fenway Pahk - where the Red Sox play. We got to sit in the Press Box where the newspaper reporters sit. We were both reporting from the Boston Globe. Braden got to ride on his first subway - on the "T" as they call it here. We saw the Boston Commons and we rode on the swan boats. We ate at a great little pizzer place recommended by a cop! It was fun finding it and knowing we couldn't get it back in Utah! On the way we saw "Cheahs" - Chears - the bar from the TV show. We then walked the freedom trail ALL over the city! It was great to see the history of Boston. We saw old grave yards, some headstones were from the early 1700's! We saw the USS Constitution - and timed our "tour" perfectly. I think it was all closed for the day when we got there, but they had this HUGE group come through that we blended right in with! It was great. After the USS Constitution we had one more stop to make - Bunka Hill Monument - we were so so tired and when we saw where the monument was Braden offered to get a cab! :) My mom asked if we would be disappointed if we didn't go see it. I gave her a big hug and said thank you! We then walked back to Quincy Hall for dinner. That is a cool place - it's just a huge eatery with foods from all around the world. Outside it has quaint shops and souvenir stores. One of the last things we did there before we left to go back was Braden found a great Red Sox hat! He is definitely allowed into the family now! :) Tuesday we took it easy again. That evening we went to a local beach on the cape. It was so pretty as the sun was setting! We played frizbee and got covered in sand! Wednesday morning Braden and Kathy (Jen's mom) left for home. Braden has finals this week and next and had to get back. We can't wait until we don't have to say good-bye anymore! TWO WEEKS FROM TODAY!! :) I hope you're all ready to party hard with us! Well, be watching for some pictures from the trip. Jen will post them soon. We love you all! See you soon!
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Wedding Video Stuff
Hey Hey Hey!!!
Well, as things are beginning to get closer and closer (really that's how it's always been, just now we're REALLY excited!), we are getting down to the nitty-gritty stuff. One of those things is a wedding video produced by yours and yours truly - US!! We kind of want to take a whole new twist on the idea of matrimonial cinema and let all of you have a say in a portion. So this is what we're asking (Plus, this is a good way to get feedback, also, on the blog!):
Leave a comment on this entry and ask us any question you want about us - it can be specifically about Jen, about Braden, both, or general questions too. (i.e., how'd we meet, first kiss, holding hands, likes, dislikes, how'd we know each other was "the one", and etc.)
There's really no good or bad question. The better the question, the more likely it'll end up in the video. So c'mon, be creative and have fun! We are! Please get us the things you want to know ASAP because we're going on this next week. Thanks and we can't wait to hear from ya'll!
Luvs :)
Well, as things are beginning to get closer and closer (really that's how it's always been, just now we're REALLY excited!), we are getting down to the nitty-gritty stuff. One of those things is a wedding video produced by yours and yours truly - US!! We kind of want to take a whole new twist on the idea of matrimonial cinema and let all of you have a say in a portion. So this is what we're asking (Plus, this is a good way to get feedback, also, on the blog!):
Leave a comment on this entry and ask us any question you want about us - it can be specifically about Jen, about Braden, both, or general questions too. (i.e., how'd we meet, first kiss, holding hands, likes, dislikes, how'd we know each other was "the one", and etc.)
There's really no good or bad question. The better the question, the more likely it'll end up in the video. So c'mon, be creative and have fun! We are! Please get us the things you want to know ASAP because we're going on this next week. Thanks and we can't wait to hear from ya'll!
Luvs :)
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Jen's Graduation Video
I know this is long overdue, but I've been really busy as you can imagine. But I hope you like it. Let me know what you think!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
The Last Little While
Hey there everyone! So, it's been a little while since either Jen or I have written, so I figure it's about time we update you on everything that has gone on. Since Jen has been home, things have really began to roll forward. We always knew that they would, but now that we're in the thick of things, we realize how crazy things can really get. So, here's the scoop on what is happening, and what has happened, I guess, in the order they happened. Here goes.
Joe and Kathy went to Italy for two weeks. They're back now. That meant that Jen was to run the business. I helped where I could - packaging things and servicing. But through the thick of it all, Jen and I were able to spend a lot of time together. Andrew was there too. We did a lot for the wedding as well. We finally got registered at Target and Bed Bath & Beyond. That was extremely tiring and I'm glad that's out of the way. We got the invites ordered and they're on their way. Watch out for those soon. Overall, things went really quite well while Joe and Kathy were gone.
My mom, DeLanea, graduated. After about 10 years of school, she's done. No, she's not a doctor, she's a mom!! I can't tell you how proud I am of her. Her perseverance and determination are an example to everyone.
Jen got a job! She'll probably tell ya'll about it in another post, but I'll briefly explain it. It's at a place called Cedar Fort Inc., in Springville, UT. She'll be one of their graphic designers doing posters and book covers and things. It's a great job that will make things a little easier in the first year of marriage. With that said, I'll appease eveyone's frustration and say that we got an apartment. This time we're sure because we've already paid the deposit. It's a great place a few blocks east of BYU. Jen's job made the place possible.
I think that's about it really. I started school again, but that's nothing special. I'm making a website for one of my classes, so when that's up and going, I'll send you all there. Other than that, nothing much. Life is going still. Only a few weeks till Boston, then the wedding. So, we'll keep you "posted" on things happening between now and then. We love you all, and until next time...
Joe and Kathy went to Italy for two weeks. They're back now. That meant that Jen was to run the business. I helped where I could - packaging things and servicing. But through the thick of it all, Jen and I were able to spend a lot of time together. Andrew was there too. We did a lot for the wedding as well. We finally got registered at Target and Bed Bath & Beyond. That was extremely tiring and I'm glad that's out of the way. We got the invites ordered and they're on their way. Watch out for those soon. Overall, things went really quite well while Joe and Kathy were gone.
My mom, DeLanea, graduated. After about 10 years of school, she's done. No, she's not a doctor, she's a mom!! I can't tell you how proud I am of her. Her perseverance and determination are an example to everyone.
Jen got a job! She'll probably tell ya'll about it in another post, but I'll briefly explain it. It's at a place called Cedar Fort Inc., in Springville, UT. She'll be one of their graphic designers doing posters and book covers and things. It's a great job that will make things a little easier in the first year of marriage. With that said, I'll appease eveyone's frustration and say that we got an apartment. This time we're sure because we've already paid the deposit. It's a great place a few blocks east of BYU. Jen's job made the place possible.
I think that's about it really. I started school again, but that's nothing special. I'm making a website for one of my classes, so when that's up and going, I'll send you all there. Other than that, nothing much. Life is going still. Only a few weeks till Boston, then the wedding. So, we'll keep you "posted" on things happening between now and then. We love you all, and until next time...
Friday, April 18, 2008
Together At Last
Last week, a whole week ago exactly today - I (Jen) graduated from BYU-Idaho with my bachelor's degree!!!! It feels SO good! It was great, my mom and dad came up along with Braden and his parents. I hadn't thought I'd want a big deal made out of my graduating, but as it got closer, and especially when I was sitting with all the graduates in the Hart Building, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of great accomplishment. Education is so important, my dad stressed it's importance to me all throughout my growing up, and he made me promise I'd finish and get a bachelor's degree. I am honored to say I have and I will encourage our kids to do the same. Elder Ballard spoke at the Convocation Ceremony and talked a lot about communicating and being missionaries. With the technology available today, we can be missionaries and examples of what we believe every minute practically.
At the Commencement Ceremony - where I received my amazing diploma "cover," we had performances including an interesting chicken/rooster opera! All of us were wondering, "What the heck?!" It was pretty funny! :) We went out to dinner to Craigos - a great pizza buffet, then went to my apt., packed up my things, came home that night and - Braden and I have seen each other every day since!
Last Sunday, was one of my last companion's homecoming - Sister Palmer - I can't believe she's home. It was so good to see her and her Russian - AMAZING! This Sunday is the homecoming of the first girl I trained on my mission, my greenie, Sister Brunson. I can't believe how fast time goes by. I look back at my time with each of them and it didn't feel like it would end, that I would always be a missionary in Ukraine. Now, believe it or not, I have been home for just about 9 months.
Monday we received hard news that over the weekend, our "soon to be landlord" forgot about us and gave our apartment away to a couple getting married this weekend. It was really hard news to take, but I feel like we have grown a lot together because of it! So, we're on the hunt again for a new place. If you know of anything, please let us know.
Yesterday and today have been really fun! We have been taking or engagement pictures! Dad did them and now our only problem is going to be too go through like 400 pictures to find only a few as our favorites- having to eliminate!
Braden is finishing up his finals! Today was his class's film final and we watched their final movies! - and tomorrow his live "Operation game will be done and we get to play it! :) Well, for now, I'm signing off. Take care everyone!
At the Commencement Ceremony - where I received my amazing diploma "cover," we had performances including an interesting chicken/rooster opera! All of us were wondering, "What the heck?!" It was pretty funny! :) We went out to dinner to Craigos - a great pizza buffet, then went to my apt., packed up my things, came home that night and - Braden and I have seen each other every day since!
Last Sunday, was one of my last companion's homecoming - Sister Palmer - I can't believe she's home. It was so good to see her and her Russian - AMAZING! This Sunday is the homecoming of the first girl I trained on my mission, my greenie, Sister Brunson. I can't believe how fast time goes by. I look back at my time with each of them and it didn't feel like it would end, that I would always be a missionary in Ukraine. Now, believe it or not, I have been home for just about 9 months.
Monday we received hard news that over the weekend, our "soon to be landlord" forgot about us and gave our apartment away to a couple getting married this weekend. It was really hard news to take, but I feel like we have grown a lot together because of it! So, we're on the hunt again for a new place. If you know of anything, please let us know.
Yesterday and today have been really fun! We have been taking or engagement pictures! Dad did them and now our only problem is going to be too go through like 400 pictures to find only a few as our favorites- having to eliminate!
Braden is finishing up his finals! Today was his class's film final and we watched their final movies! - and tomorrow his live "Operation game will be done and we get to play it! :) Well, for now, I'm signing off. Take care everyone!
Monday, April 7, 2008
Conference Weekend
Well, this last weekend was General Conference and it was really good. First of all, let me say that Jen somewhat surprised me by coming down from Idaho on Wednesday, a whole day earlier that usual. That was awesome. She had to finish a project so on Thursday, we got down to BYU at 6 AM!!! 15 hours, a website and a good chunk of my research paper later, we called it quits and finally got to relax. I relaxed so much, that my immune system took time off and let in a nasty head cold. As I'm writing this, I have a cool movie-announcer voice and frequently have the opportunity to blow my nose.
Anyways, we had the priveledge of watching Genereal Conference. I won't talk of any specifics, but I want to mention a few things I thought were really cool. I don't know if it's been done before, but I loved how we were able to sustain all the General Authorities. We had the chance to actually stand up and sustain Pres. Monson, the 12 Apostles, and other general authorities. The spirit, at least for me, was really strong and I knew that those I was sustaining were actually called of God to do what they are doing. Another good experience was the Priesthood Session. I overcame some early tiredness and was able to really enjoy what was said. All the messages, for me again, pointed towards knowing our divine potential - that we can be with and like the Savior and Heavenly Father. It just really motivated me to be better and to help others also.
I loved conference. Admittedly, I was always waiting for Pres. Hinckley to get up after Pres. Monson, but it was still awesome. I can't wait to start studying all the talks further.
As far as other news goes, Jen and I were able to secure our first "home." Its in north Provo by the riverwoods. For those that are interested, it's in Donny Osmond's stake. Cool, eh? Well, until next time...
Anyways, we had the priveledge of watching Genereal Conference. I won't talk of any specifics, but I want to mention a few things I thought were really cool. I don't know if it's been done before, but I loved how we were able to sustain all the General Authorities. We had the chance to actually stand up and sustain Pres. Monson, the 12 Apostles, and other general authorities. The spirit, at least for me, was really strong and I knew that those I was sustaining were actually called of God to do what they are doing. Another good experience was the Priesthood Session. I overcame some early tiredness and was able to really enjoy what was said. All the messages, for me again, pointed towards knowing our divine potential - that we can be with and like the Savior and Heavenly Father. It just really motivated me to be better and to help others also.
I loved conference. Admittedly, I was always waiting for Pres. Hinckley to get up after Pres. Monson, but it was still awesome. I can't wait to start studying all the talks further.
As far as other news goes, Jen and I were able to secure our first "home." Its in north Provo by the riverwoods. For those that are interested, it's in Donny Osmond's stake. Cool, eh? Well, until next time...
Monday, March 24, 2008
Easter
Happy Easter! I can't believe it was in March this year! It was such a great Easter though - I'm not complaining. Braden's family had my family over for Easter dinner and we all brought some food. Oh, it was all so good! Then we had an Easter egg hunt in the backyard and the boys had so much fun! I took some pictures and thought I'd post them of the boys on their scavenger hunts!
Ok, from top to bottom are Braden's nephews: Jackson, Jerik, and Gibson! :)
Now this last boy had a lot of fun early that morning at my house! The Easter Bunny found him and surprised him by hiding his first "hidden" Easter Basket! :) As tradition goes at my house, the Easter Bunny finds a new tricky hiding place for our baskets each year and this year he had one for Braden! It was so fun watching him search our house! :)
Ok, from top to bottom are Braden's nephews: Jackson, Jerik, and Gibson! :)
Now this last boy had a lot of fun early that morning at my house! The Easter Bunny found him and surprised him by hiding his first "hidden" Easter Basket! :) As tradition goes at my house, the Easter Bunny finds a new tricky hiding place for our baskets each year and this year he had one for Braden! It was so fun watching him search our house! :)
Monday, March 17, 2008
Sunday, March 16, 2008
The Blog Title
Alright. I'm guessing that you probably know us, so you get the title of the blog. But just in case you've been "out of the circle" we've made a little room so that you can squeeze into it. Jen and I (Braden) have been engaged anxiously for just over a month now. Up until we actually get married, the 8th of every month will be our "engagement" anniversary. I guess that cold February day will always hold a special place, but when you're not engaged anymore - when you're actually married - it's more a memory than a day of celebration.
So now that we got that cleared up, here's Jen. Well, right now our time together consists of weekends and well, nights on the phone from 9:00 until we start falling asleep. Seeing as it is Sunday, the weekend is ending and I'll be heading back to BYU-Idaho, so we wanted to get this blog started for you all. This way you can find out all about us! :) We will both be adding to this whenever we feel like it - so stay tuned...
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