I Can't Even Believe

These past two weeks have been amazing. I have never felt so blessed in so many different ways in my life. I can't even believe how lucky I am.

I can't even believe that I get to be a mama to my perfect little Taft.

I can't even believe that I get to cuddle and snuggle him all day.

I can't even believe how big he has gotten in just two weeks.

I can't even believe how fast time goes, it truly breaks my heart.

I can't even believe that Heavenly Father trusts me with Taft.

All that trust absolutely scares the living daylights out of me, it's a lot of pressure, and responsibility. But, I can't believe that Heavenly Father has blessed me with all of the tools and support that I need to be able to raise Taft successfully.

I can't even believe how incredible my Kent is.

I can't even believe that I get to watch my cute Kent be the best dad to our little guy. I've fallen in love with my sweet hubby all over again.

I can't even believe that I get to be Kent's partner in raising our Taft.

I can't even believe that I'm lucky enough to call my cute Kent my eternal companion, and that I'm the lucky girly that gets to wake up to his face every morning. 

I can't even believe how amazing my mom and dad are.

I can't even believe how selfless they have been and their willingness to drop everything to help me these last two weeks.

I can't even believe how much my love has grown for my parents as I have watched them love and adore my little Taft. It's crazy because I can physically see the love that they have for him. 

I can't even believe that Heavenly Father blessed me with two such amazing examples as parents in my life.

I can't even believe how lucky I am to have so many extraordinary people in my life. I can't even believe how lucky Taft is, to also have those same people in his life. I am so grateful for the many blessings that have come my way. So, thank you to all of you who have sacrificed your time and love to spoil our new little family. I can't even believe how lucky and blessed I am:)

     Sincerely,

Top 10 Things I Learned In 2015

Well, here is the typical New Years post that everyone seems to be writing this time of year. Mine's a little different, because I am not the biggest fan of New Years Resolutions. I'm a believer that we should be trying to better ourselves all year around instead of just at the beginning of every year. So, instead of making a list of all the things I want to resolute, I'm going to make a list of the top 10 things that I learned this year.

1 - Friends Are Awesome

This year, Kent and I have finally found a really solid group of friends. We LOVE them. It's been awesome to see our relationship with them grow strong. We've had so many fun camping trips, played on a couples softball league, had major corn-hole tournaments, weekly frozen yogurt meet ups, and so many other fun things. It's been so cool to see how having close friends has helped Kent and I become closer. 

2 - Everybody Has Bad Days

The whole month of August was a bad day for us. It seemed like just about everything that could have gone wrong in our lives did! We were both having a major pity party. I realized about a month after complaining and whining, that bad things happen to everybody! It's not just me, and having a pity party solves nothing. Do you know what else solves nothing? Complaining... which brings me to number 3.

3 - Have Gratitude

Kent and I have been so extremely blessed. Even with our horribly never ending bad day in August, we were still so blessed. I realized that if we had recognized all of the blessings that were sitting right under our nose that we may have been able to handle the month with a little bit more grace. Even in times of struggle there is always always always always something to be grateful for.

4 - The Laundry Will Never Ever Be 100% Completed. Ever.

I think I have finally come to accept the fact that I will be doing laundry for the rest of my life. I think I have finally come to accept the fact that there will always always be some clothing item that needs to be folded. I think I am finally over it, I still don't like it, but I'm more okay with it than I have been in the past.

5 - You Don't Have To Please Everyone

In fact, it's impossible to please everyone. I was wearing myself thin at the beginning of last year, making sure that I was always saying the right thing to the right person at the right time. I was constantly worried that I was going to say something that was going to offend someone. I have FINALLY figured out that as long as you're kind, it's not necessary to jump off edges to please people. There is a polite way to say "no." There are some people who may be offended by this, and that's okay. I live by the moto "Not my circus, not my monkeys." BUT it's also okay to go out of your way to make someones day... it just doesn't have to be all the time:)

6 - Worrying Solves Nothing

I used to be a big worrier. I still do worry sometimes... but I have come such a long way! I wrote a whole post about worrying, and my own words finally sunk into my thick head. Sitting and worrying literally does no good. "Don't worry! It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out in the end. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us." - Gordon B. Hinckley

7 - Life's Short, Paint the Walls

In the first rental home that Kent and I lived in, we painted all the walls before we moved in. I LOVED it. The kitchen was sea-foam green and it was THE cutest. After living there a year, I got way bored of the colors that were in our living room, so I painted the whole living room again. Sadly, about a month after I painted, we ended up moving into a different apartment. Kent and I went back and forth and back and forth on whether we wanted to paint the walls in our new apartment. You know what I said??? Screw it, life's short and I am painting the walls. So I painted the whole apartment in 2 days at 7 months pregnant. I AM SO GLAD THAT I DID. There is nothing better than a coat of fresh paint. Life is way too short to be skipping out on the things that make you happy.

Here's a link to the BEST painting tool ever. Yes, it actually works. 

8 - Don't Let Other's Dictate Your Feelings

This is way easier said than done. However, I have learned how much happier you can be if you can just brush off other peoples actions. Yes, words and actions definitely hurt, but just remember that your happiness is truly in your own hands. Once again, "not your circus, not your monkeys."

9 - Diet Coke Fixes Everything 

I tried to give up diet coke at the beginning of my pregnancy, but I learned that life's better when there's a coke in your hand. Nuff said.

10 - You Can Be Anything You Want To Be, But It's Usually Best To Just Be Yourself

I am still trying to figure out who the heck I am, and I'm pretty sure it's going to be a life long journey. I also really believe that we can be anything or anybody we want to be. However, I think that being yourself is always always a safe bet. I can say with assurance as I embrace who I am, what my core wants me to be, and as I accept what my actual abilities are rather than what my desired abilities are, I am at the most peace, and am most comfortable with myself. 

So here's to 2016. To being our true selves, drinking lots of diet coke, learning a lot more about life and doing whatever it is that makes you happy, because quite frankly my friends, this life is much too short to be anything less than perfectly happy.

     Sincerely,

Charming Lives In My Home

6:00 a.m. I hear the alarm go off. A tired and sleepy husband sluggishly rolls himself out of bed. I cuddle back up in my covers and quickly fall asleep again. His day has already begun. He makes sure to sweetly kiss my cheek and baby bump before he leaves, and with the quiet click of our back door, we part from each others company for the day. My alarm goes off one hour later. I walk into the kitchen to eat my breakfast and find the crumbs from the sandwich he made in a hurry this morning. It makes me smile, and I think about how his day has already been going on for an hour.

His day is going to be so different from mine. It consists of sweating in the hot sun, physically working hard, dealing with unhappy/happy clients, and eating the same bagel sandwich he eats every day. He thrives off of making people happy, and makes sure they are satisfied with the work that he gives them. He is a business man, and every ounce of his day is put to providing for our little family. 

Once his work day is over, his day still goes on. He comes home and continues to make himself available to those who need him. He is selfless with his time and services. He helps the neighbor across the street move a pile of mulch. He secretly mows our land lord's lawn just because he can. He gives his time once a week to be with the 12 year old boys in our church, and he teaches them, loves them, and genuinely cares for them. He visits specific families in our church once a month, and sincerely asks if he can do anything for them. He helps our friends move from their apartment, to their parents home, and then again into their new home. He is the most selfless person I know.

Then he finally comes home to me. I hear his truck pull into the drive, and I meet him at the door where he takes off his stinky shoes and grass filled socks. He embraces me in his arms, kisses my forehead, and gives me the long hug that I needed after my day away from him. We eat dinner and discuss each others day. We watch an episode or two of our favorite Netflix shows, and call it a day where we end up in our bed. He prays for me, and our unborn child and we fall asleep, all to start the same day over again.

The real Prince Charming lives in my home, and he is a babe. 

No, he probably won't ever be on the cover of any magazine, or star in any Channing Tatum movies, and I am honestly grateful for that. I am grateful that he is a real Prince Charming.

Charming can't be measured by rippling muscles, perfect teeth, and a chiseled jaw. (Although, in my opinion my hubby has all three.) Charming can't be measured by how many girls can be picked up on a Friday night. Charming isn't knowing what to say and how to say it all the time. Charming isn't the perfect tempered man. Charming can't be measured by how many likes are on Instagram or Facebook. Charming is much much more. Yes, his attractive looks may have been what caught my attention, but his looks are definitely not what stole my heart. 

Charming is a man who loves Jesus Christ with all his heart. Charming is a man who loyally serves his family, and those around him. Charming is a man who wipes his wife's tears when she is having a bad day. Charming is an imperfect man who occasionally loses his temper, but knows how to say, "I'm sorry." Charming leaves his dirty finger prints on the walls, but does the dishes while you are sleeping. Charming is sensitive, gentle, kind, and loving. Charming is dirty shoes at the front door, and hug and a kiss. Charming is a selfless man who sacrifices his time, effort, and money for those he loves. Charming is a humble prayer pleading with Heavenly Father for help. 

The tabloids and media may sometimes confuse you into believing that Charming is Christian Grey who controls, and persuades you. They may have you confused that Charming is a man with chiseled abs and a perfect 5 o'clock shadow. But let me tell you, the tabloids and media are very, very confused.

I can't forget what the measurements of my real Charming are. He is dedication, love, dignity, and prayers. Real Charming lives in my home, and I bet he lives in your home too. 

     Sincerely,

Surviving the First Year

It's no secret that being newly married can be tough. Between learning who your husband truly is, trying to figure out your new role as a wife, and trying to balance time with in-laws, there can be lots of room for mistakes, mean words, roller coaster emotions, AND lots of love. There are times when I want someone to tell me exactly what to do, or tell me what not to do. I sometimes wish there was a written list of things to avoid, or things to expect so that Kent and I could have a perfect and blissful marriage with no disagreements or mean words. However, I am grateful for this first almost year of marriage, and wouldn't change it for anything. So, from one wifey to another, here's my guide to surviving the first year of marriage:

1 - Pray EVERY night together.
Kent and I have missed literally three of our night time prayers since being married, and those misses were because he was at Scout Camp, and without cell-phone service. I know without a doubt that when Kent and I pray at night, Heavenly Father is listening closely to our prayers. There have been times when we were mad at each other, but we still prayed, and do you know what????? After asking Heavenly Father to soften our hearts, and to help us understand each other, he did just that. We started to see each others points of view, and the tension evaded. I also believe it is soooo vital for our spouses to hear us pray for them, and it's important for us to hear our husbands pray for us. I know that when I hear my husband pray for specific needs in my life, such as my work, or for my church calling, it makes me appreciate him so much. It makes me feel as though he really is paying attention, and he really is concerned about the needs that I have. I know that Kent feels the same when I pray for him too.

"Prayer is the passport to peace."

-Thomas S. Monson

2 - Inaugurate Responsibility From the Beginning.

This is something that I wish we had started earlier in our marriage, and I could probably write a whole blog post on. First of all, Kent, if you read this, I love you with allll my heart and I think you are an incredible person:) Men have a completely different way of thinking than we do. For instance, if there is a pile of laundry sitting next to the couch, and we sit down to watch T.V. we are more than likely going to fold the laundry while watching our shows. If a man sits down on the couch next to a pile of laundry, they are more than likely not going to fold it. Now, I don't believe for a second that they intentionally leave the clean laundry to sit there. I truly believe that it's solely because they don't think like woman do, and they truly don't notice that it needs to be folded. I know that Kent appreciates it when the house is clean, however I don't think he truly recognizes what it takes to keep the house clean. That's when we need our loving woman skills to teach them (in a non nagging way) and show them what needs done, and how to scrub a toilet the correct way. I wish from the beginning of our marriage that we had essentially created a job chart. Something along the lines of, Thursday mornings you take the garbage can to the curb, and I'll make sure the dishes are all done. Saturday mornings, you are in charge of scrubbing the bathroom, and I am in charge of scrubbing the kitchen. Mondays, you vacuum the house, and I'll dust all the furniture and fluff the pillows. Whoever is out of bed last in the mornings has to make the bed. If you eat food in the living room, make sure the dishes make it to the dishwasher by the end of the day. We are trying to establish this now, and it's a little harder because we have gotten set in our ways, however I know eventually it will be so worth it, because keeping the house clean should definitely be more than a one person job.

3 - Choose Your Battles Wisely.

Before I bring up anything that is bugging me about Kent, or about life, I think "is it worth hurt feelings?" There will come times in your marriage when things just start bugging you. It could be the hormones talking, it could be that you had a bad day and you just hate the world for no reason, it could be because your frustrated with something little that your husband may or may not be doing. No matter what reasons you may have for being irritated always stop and remind yourself that your husband isn't a bad person, he is not intentionally irritating you, he loves you deeply, and ask yourself if the problem is worth a possible argument and/or hurt feelings. Now, that being said there are definitely times and issues that need to be resolved. If it is an issue that really matters to you, makes you feel bad, or is truly hurting your marriage, than those are absolutely times when you can lovingly express your concern to your husband. But, don't let your crazy hormones start up something that simply just needs a night of sleep to be resolved. 

4 - Genesis 2:24

"A man shall leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh." I am pretty sure this is one of the hardest things for every newly-wed. I know for a fact that it was hard for me at first. Your mom, and Dad are your go to problem solver for the first 18 to 20 years of your life. Now all of a sudden you are married, and expected to go to your spouse (that in my case I had dated for a whole six months) for all of my problems and needed advice. It's definitely not that I didn't trust Kent's opinion or advice, it was more of an old habit of "Oh! I don't know what to do... moooommmmmm I need help!" A whole almost year into our marriage and we both still have to work on this commandment. I feel like we have both come a long ways from where we were with this, and we are really starting to feel like our own little intimate family. We discuss our problems and our concerns with our little family, and our Heavenly Father and I love the way that if feels. I know that Kent looks to me for all his problems, and I look to him with mine. Knowing this makes me feel sooo loved to know that he trusts me and my advice.

5 - Have Joined Bank Accounts.

Kent and I had separate bank accounts for the first 5 months of our marriage. In some ways it worked alright, and in others it didn't. We had decided at the beginning that it would work best if my account and all the money in it was for all of the groceries, and my gas. His account and all the money in it was for rent, paying bills, car maintenance, medical bills, house needs, and his gas. Everything got paid, but what happened to all the money that wasn't spent on the above listed? Oh that's right, it became our money for our own spending. We had a hard time saving any money that way because when I had $200 left in my account at the end of the month, it was time to go shopping. In January we finally decided it would be best for us to have joint accounts. I'm pretty sure it was the best financial decision we have made thus far. It's awesome to be able to have someone monitor your spending, and I feel more accountable to Kent. I know that I can't take a stop at the mall to buy a new outfit because Kent will see, and not that he would be mad or disappointed... I just know that's probably not what he would want us to spend our money on when we are trying to save for a new car. Likewise, Kent doesn't buy pizza on Tuesday and Wednesday nights during my piano lessons anymore because he knows that I will see it come out of our account. Accountability is a very good thing in a marriage, and it helps us save money:)

6 - Above All Things, Put Your Spouse.

The second that you become husband and wife, your spouse is instantly put at the top of your importance list. For time and all eternity, (next to God) your spouse is your number one. Your spouse's feelings should even come above your parents feelings, and your spouse's parents feelings. Heck, your spouse's feelings should be coming above your feelings. I think that we sometimes get into the thought that "ohhh, my wife/husband will understand, and she will be quicker to forget and forgive then my family, so I'm going to try to make my family happy first." WRONG. Your spouse is THE MOST important human on this planet. There have been times where I felt I wasn't at the top of the list, and it causes resentment and hurt hurt hurt feelings. If there's one thing that marriage has taught me, it's to be selfless. It's been pretty incredible to watch Kent and I both grow selfless together. I know without a doubt that Heavenly Father's hand is in our marriage, and I pray daily that I will be selfless enough to put all of Kent's feelings and needs above mine. I truly believe that you cannot have a healthy and functioning relationship unless your spouse is your number one.

"True love blooms when we care more about another person than we care about ourselves."

-Jeffrey R. Holland

7 - Forgive, Forgive, Forgive.

Like I said previously, your husband is not intentionally being mean, he doesn't want to hurt your feelings, he's not a rude person, and he loves you deeply. No person on this planet is perfect. Not even close to perfect! I know for a fact, I have said and done things that have hurt Kent's feelings, and vis versa. I always think about Heavenly Father, and how he is willing to forgive us for just about any sin as long as we ask for forgiveness and fix our mistakes. How could we be so selfish to not forgive someone, ESPECIALLY your spouse, when Heavenly Father is even willing to forgive. I believe that if you truly love your husband, you will be quicker than a race horse to forgive him.

8 - Nice Words Only Please.
We woman for whatever reason, have a tendency to not always say the nicest things about people. For whatever reasons, gossiping makes us feel like we are bigger, and more in charge than other people. My mom gave me this incredible advice to never ever say anything bad about your husband to anyone. I have tried so hard to apply this advice to my life. I have seen how it has helped my mom and my dad's relationship. I have never heard either of them say anything bad about each other. The reason that this rule should be applied is because eventually, when you only say good things about your husband, you begin to only see good things about your husband. It's kind of like the "you are what you eat" concept. You start to believe, and see what you say.

9 -  Bed Time = Two People.
I'm firm believer that going to bed at the same time is a marriage reinforcer. That five minute cuddle time you can have with your husband right before falling asleep and moving to opposite sides of the bed is a time where you can express your love without words, or really any actions. If you don't go to bed at the same time, one person falls asleep, then the other person has to come in when they are ready and wake them up in order to have a half-hearted "get this prayer over with so I can go back to sleep" prayer. The time right before we fall asleep for Kent and I, is actually the time that we have to deepest, and most heart to heart conversations. Our lives are so busy, it seems like if we are home, the T.V is always on, or we are doing homework. Bedtime is a time where there are no distractions. It's solely a time to express love, appreciation, and a time we can truly listen to each other. It is honestly my favorite part of the day.

10- Love is a Choice.
There will come days in your first year of marriage, when it seems the "honey-moon phase" is over. The wedding pictures aren't as exciting anymore, you've boxed up all the left over wedding decorations that you thought you would use for your home but never did, real life kicks in with work, and school, and church callings, and the love may fizzle in and out. Always try to flirt with your husband like you did on your first date. Keep the romance in the air. Remember why you fell in love with him in the first place. It's completely up to you whether you stay in love or not. Wake up in the morning, and choose to keep falling in love with your husband everyday.

Kent and I have been married for 11 months, and it's hard to believe that we will be celebrating our first anniversary in one month. This year has absolutely flown by. I have learned so much about myself, and about Kent. I know without a doubt that Kent was placed into my life by Heavenly Design. Kent makes me a better person, and I make Kent a better person. In some ways, this first year has been really hard, and in a lot of ways it has been incredibly wonderful. I never thought that I could love Kent more than I did the day that I married him, however I have been proven wrong just about every morning. My love for him grows daily, and he tells me all the time that his love for me grows hourly;)  Although this first year may be tough, you have the opportunity to learn and experience things that you will never be able to ever again. Enjoy each other's company, take spontaneous road trips, make other married couple friends, go to church every Sunday, unconditionally love each other, and just think, you only get one chance at your first year of marriage, so you better make it a good one.

     Sincerely,

Pine Trees, Good people, Delicious Icecream, and Big Fish

Kent and I took a little vacation up to the panhandle of Idaho. He served an LDS mission in the Spokane, Washington area, and I got to go and meet all of the incredible people that live up there.

We left for Coeur d'Alene Wednesday night at 8:00 p.m.. and arrived at 6:00 a.m. just in time to catch a few hours of sleep before the excitement of our vacation began.

Oh my lanta... Coeur d'Alene is the most beautiful place that I have ever been (it was even prettier than Kauai if you ask me). The pine trees were the greenest of greens. They were tall, strong, and so thick that light could not get through them. The lakes were calm, serene, and clear. The ice cream was FANTASTIC! The fish were large and energetic, and soooo much fun to catch. All of that was great, but by far the best part was the company. Kent lived with the Lee family for about 3 months of his mission. He and their youngest song Scott became pretty close friends. I had heard such great things about Scott and was so excited to meet him and his darling girlfriend Heather. Scott is an avid outdoors-man. He does everything from rifle/bow hunting every animal there is, to fishing. Not only does he do it, but he knows exactly how to do it successfully. He and Heather took us to their favorite turkey hunting, and fishing spots. I was so grateful for the time that I had to be able to spend with Heather and Scott, and for the things that they taught me. Scott is 23 years old, and is a two time cancer survivor. He is an incredible man. In the short 2 days we were with them, Scott taught me a lot of things, but, most importantly he taught me that life is precious, and to cherish and love every second of it. Heather taught me that love out weighs everything. Her love for Scott, and his love for her was so strong, and it truly outweighed all things. I am so grateful for the members in Coeur d'Alene, and for the kindness and hospitality that they showed Kent while he was serving the Lord.

We departed from Coeur d'Alene Saturday afternoon, and headed to Spokane Washington where we visited the Stroh family. They were the SWEETEST people. They welcomed us into their home with a delicious home-cooked steak and potato meal, and finished it off with homemade huckleberry pie. I LOVE the Stroh's, and I know just from being with them for one night that they loved Kent so very much. While Kent was living there, their youngest song Trevor was still at home, and just like Scott, Trevor and Kent became very close. Kent says that Trevor is the only reason that he stayed sane while he was in Spokane haha. The Stroh's are some of the most down to earth, and most generous people I have ever met. We were planning on staying just for dinner and heading to Montana that night, but the weather got pretty bad, and the highway to Montana is kind of sketchy, so the Stroh's were kind enough to welcome us into the home for the night.

Sunday morning at the butt crack of dawn, we were up and ready to drive the two and a half hour drive to Libby, Montana. We were only about 15 minutes south of the Canadian border, and the whole drive there was absolutely beautiful. We followed the Kootenai River all the way there. Once we arrived in Libby, we met the Ercenbreck's for the last hour of their church, and then drove to their home. They are the kindest people ever. They were sooo fun to talk to and I loved hearing the stories they told about Kent while he was serving there. I was so sad that we couldn't stay and visit with them longer, but they left us with a picnic on the road, and a bag full of fresh huckleberries.

We left Libby, Montana at 3:00 in the afternoon. Siri told me that the drive back to American Fork was twelve and a half hours, but we made it in ten;) Even still, it was the longest drive EVER. We made the plan that Kent would drive the first half, and I would sleep so that I could drive the second half while he slept. He needed to be up for work at 6:00 the next morning. Well...... I suck at life. I couldn't fall asleep during the first half so when my half of the shift started at 10:00 p.m. I was VERYYYYY tired. I tried my hardest to stay awake, but my eyes just wouldn't focus on the roads. Kent finally told me to pull over so that he could drive because I was scaring him to death haha. I felt very very bad. Poor soul had to go to work with only an hour and a half of sleep the night before.

This vacation was so incredibly fun. I loved every piece of it. I love going to new places, and meeting new people. It's incredible to me that no matter where you are in the world, the Gospel, and the Spirit are the same. Now I know that the Northwest is not that far away from me, but still. I am so grateful for the incredible people that I was able to meet up there, and for their kindness that they have shown Kent and I. I am so grateful for the Kent's faithfulness and for his willingness to serve a two year mission. This vacation made me so excited for my brother, and for my future children to serve the Lord and his people.

     Sincerely,

Greener Grass

The grass is greener on the other side, right? Sometimes it sure as heck seems that way... however it's SO wrong.

I believe that one of the biggest things we humans struggle with, is that we have a hard time being happy in our own circumstances. We always want more. Some people wish they had more money, or they lived in a bigger homes. Some people wish they had fancier clothing, or more extravagant cars. For whatever reason, it seems to be in our nature to always want more.

Kent and I are currently living in a 2 bedroom house. It is absolutely tiny. The washing machine is in the little bathroom, and the dryer is in the kitchen. There aren't enough cupboards in the kitchen to put the gazzilion kitchen gadgets (pots, pans, utensils, dinnerware, etc.) that we own. We don't have a disposal, OR a dishwasher. I am the dishwasher. Our fridge is crammed in the corner of our kitchen right next to our tiny kitchen table, making it near impossible to get food out of it without moving the table completely out of the way. There is not enough room in our bedroom closet to put all of the clothes that we both own. Our spare bedroom is stuffed full of fishing gear, camo, tackle boxes, wedding decorations, sleeping bags, camping gear, snowmobile helmets, and wedding presents that we have yet to open from the boxes. We hate that we can't have our horses close to us, or afford property right now. We complain about the CONSTANT construction that is going on in front of our drive way, requiring us to ask the construction workers to move every time we want to leave our home. We wish more than anything that we had a place in our living room to put a piano. Why the heck am I wishing the grass is greener?

Let me rephrase... My husband and I are currently living in a 2 bedroom home. We have a fantastic ward, a huge drive way for all of our toys, AND our landlords even let us repaint the whole home whatever colors we wanted. We have a washing machine AND a dryer. We don't have to take weekly trips to the laundromat in order to have clean clothing. We have been blessed with soo many kitchen gadgets that we don't even have enough room for them in our kitchen.  We always have delicious food in our refrigerator. We have more clothing than what we even need. Some people don't even have clothes. Our spare bedroom is stuffed full of so many fun things that make our life enjoyable. We have the capability to leave on fishing and hunting trips whenever we desire. We have horses in Tooele, and we can ride them whenever we want. We live in a city that takes care of itself. American Fork is constantly redoing roads, and water pipes. The city is always trying to better itself. I have a piano that I can teach from and play on whenever I want at my parents house. It's a huge blessing that my parents are even willing to deal with the sound of new piano students playing for 5 hours twice a week. Kent and I both drive huge gas guzzling trucks, simply because we think it's fun. We both have jobs that allow us to leave on vacation spontaneously, and whenever we want.

Life is all about perspective. In my kitchen, I have a quote hanging on my wall.

The Grass is Green Where You Water It

This is my motto for the year. Kent and I have been scraping our pennies, trying to figure out anyway possible to make a down payment on a home this summer. Unfortunately, it's just not going to be in the books for us this year... and that is OK. We are so beyond blessed to even have the home that we do. Before you even know it, I am going to have the greenest grass in the whole state because I choose to water mine. I love the stage of life that I am in, and all the experiences that come with it. I am grateful that I am having the opportunity to learn how to manage money, and budget. I'm grateful that I am learning how to communicate, and give and take in a marriage. I am grateful that I know what it's like to wash all of our dishes by hand... because one day I am really going to appreciate my dishwasher. Heck I am grateful that I am learning how to be grateful for things. Take your life into your own hands. Go out and water your grass (literally and figuratively) and be grateful that you even have grass to water.

     Sincerely,

Love Confession

Dear Netflix,

It seems like we have known each other for a while now, but just recently our relationship has really started to blossom. I remember the first time we started getting to know each other. It was a warm September day. There was a lovely smell of fresh cut grass, and you could hear the songs of the birds being sung in the distance. I had just gotten home to my apartment after an extensive, and draining day of attending classes at Utah Valley University. I had no homework, and absolutely nowhere to be. That’s when the thought of your diverting humor, and comforting voice had crossed my mind.

The first time we were acquainted was at my parent’s house a few years ago. We had politely, and subtly introduced ourselves with a small conversation, however you did most of the talking. I was intrigued with your bright colors that shined down on my face, and with the way that you could capture my attention with just a little bit of drama. Our conversation didn't last long, maybe a minute or so, but I knew as soon as that short minute was over, you were different from all of the other television programs… you were special.

I had a hard time getting you off of my mind since that astounding day at my parent’s house. I found you creeping into my thoughts slowly, and quietly.  I couldn't focus on anything. The droning lectures of my professors became almost painful, the silence in my bedroom while doing homework was mind-numbing, the late night chats I had with my friends and roommates became uninteresting, even sleep became insignificant. All I could think about was the way that you could hold me like no other person could, and the way that you could make me forget all the trials and troubles in life. You kept calling my name, but I was too scared to start a relationship with you. I had heard other people talk about you… They said you were poisonous, but a good kind. They said that you were dangerous, yet captivating and satisfying. I wanted you so bad.

On that warm September day, I gave my heart to you. I forgot about all the warnings I had received from other peers, and I gave into your seductive temptations. I gave everything I had to you, my time, and my grades, my relationships with others, my church attendance, and my personal cleanliness. I got stuck on your love for a whole 3 months, and because of you, I failed 2 classes. It took a real shake from my college professors, and my parents to make me realize at that time you weren't any good for me. I had to break things off. It was a devastating break up. You were my heroine, and I was having withdrawals from you.

About 5 months ago, I slowly started letting your temptations back into my life again. I married my husband in July, and I knew now I was stronger. I knew that I could handle the way that you would allure me into hours of drama after drama. I had another companion that could support me through your temptations. I can honestly say we have a healthy relationship. I’m grateful for you now, and the way you can make time go faster when my husband is not around. I’m grateful for the times that you pull my husband and I closer as we get stuck on your addicting shows. I love you Netflix. Please don’t ever leave me, and please don’t ever betray me.
 
          Sincerely,

Meeting Miss Malorie

I am on a mission to make the world a happier place. Happiness is letting go of what you think your life is supposed to look like, and celebrating it for everything that it is. I am convinced I am one of the happiest people in the world. My name is Malorie Heder. I was married in the Draper Temple last July to the love of my life, Kent. Kent and I met in a Provo singles ward last year (all thanks to my awesome now sister-in-law Kristine). After our first date, he told his roommates I was too young, and I told my roommates that he didn't have an option... I was marrying him whether he liked it or not. Well, as it shows, I didn't give him much of an option. I finally persuaded him after months of Sunday night cuddle sessions that I was in fact kind of cool. Three months from when we started dating we were engaged, and three months after that we were married for time and all eternity. I love Kent more today than I thought was ever even possible.

I feel like this picture belongs in some sort of fantasy fairy-tale book. Then again I'm a little bias. Call me a cheeseball!

I have a serious passion for music. From the time that I was little my mom and dad had me singing my little heart out. I love playing the guitar, and banjo, and am currently teaching piano lessons to 15 little budding musicians (I have the best job in the world). One of my favorites things in the world is performing in front of people. I absolutely love when people appreciate my music, and when they can feel my music the same way I do. I love singing anything by Ingrid Michaelson, and love listening to country music, especially George Strait... he is the man. 

I love being a homemaker! I never thought I wanted to be the stereotypical "housewife." However, now being married, I love it. I love having dinner ready for Kent when he gets home, and making sure that the house is nice and clean. I have recently rediscovered my relish for sewing. I just adore being home, and making it a place that we can feel the spirit. I love color, and designing. Sometimes I think I want to be an Interior Designer, but then I remember that it requires school... and I don't like school.

I'm always down for anything outdoors. Whether its hunting, archery, or horseback riding, fishing, four-wheeling, snowmobiling, or hiking. I love it. I don't think I could ever move away from Utah, because my fondness of the Uintah's is wayyyy too much. Other than the temple, I don't believe there is a more peaceful place on this Earth. I'm a country girl through and through:)

I love the Gospel of Jesus Christ with all my heart, and don't know where I'd be without it in my life.. but I imagine somewhere crazy and sad. I love climbing trees, and star gazing. I don't like chocolate very much, and would choose Sour Patch Watermelon over chocolate ANY day. I love comedy movies, especially Tommy Boy. I'm not a huge fan of talking about my feelings, but I love being a sound board for people to vent to. I'm borderline obsessed with the Kardashian's.. mostly just because I can't believe that real life people actually live, and act the way that they do. It's hilarious. My favorite animal is a bear because they have the cutest bums on this planet. My whole wardrobe consists of different colored t-shirts, jeans, and boots. I hate dressing up. I think dogs are just as cool as people, and sometimes I love them even more than people. I love spreading happiness, and making people smile. I love living life to the fullest, and making the best out of anything that comes my way. Here's a bear bum to make your day:

Tell me that's not the cutest.

          Sincerely,

Arise and Come Forth

3 Nephi 9:14  Yea, verily I say unto you, if ye will come unto me ye shall have eternal life. Behold, mine arm of mercy is extended towards you, and whosoever will come, him will I receive; and blessed are those who come unto me. 

I often wonder what it will be like when Christ comes to the Earth again. I imagine it to be very similar to the story we read in 3 Nephi. There will be treacherous earthquakes, fires, wars, crazy thunderstorms, and a whole lot of other scary stuff. The whole Earth will be covered with darkness for three days. On the third day, the darkness will be broken with a voice saying "Behold, my Beloved in Son, in whom I am well pleased, in whom I have glorified my name - hear ye him" 

Oh man I hope I am still around to be able to hear those words. Can you imagine the peace that would overcome the Earth simply from hearing the voice of our Father in Heaven? 3 Nephi 11 is when this officially happens. Heavenly Father speaks three times before the Nephites could hear and understand what was being said. That scares the poop out of me. How on planet Earth (literally) could a person not hear Heavenly Father's voice? Verse 5 says that the third time that Heavenly Father spoke, the Nephites "opened their ears to hear it; and their eyes were towards the sound thereof; and they did look steadfastly towards heaven, from whence the sound came." Here's some food for thought, how do we "open our ears and eyes" so that we can feel and hear the spirit of the Lord speaking to us? Hopefully I'll be able to hear His voice the first time.

 Here's me and my mom. She is an incredible woman and example in my life. Not sure what i would do without her.

About a week ago, my mom and I were discussing the Second Coming. It was mentioned that it might be intimidating to meet our Savior. In our mortal life, we know that we will never be even close to perfect. Are we going to feel guilt when we meet our Savior because we know that we have judged others too harshly, or because we didn't give life our 100% all? There's a scripture that says "where much is given, much is required." Heavenly Father has blessed my life abundantly, and in many ways that I know I don't deserve. Have i given all that is required of me? Should I feel guilty when i meet the Savior? 

As my mom and I discussed what meeting the Savior would be like, I was reminded of the woman in the Bible who was being stoned for adultery. The Savior stops the persecutors, and says "He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her." I can't even imagine how embarrassed and guilty this woman must of felt to be caught in the act of adultery by the Savior. However, the Savior did not guilt her, and dismiss her. He loved her, and taught her. He forgave her, and I imagine he gave her a big hug and told her that everything's going to be okay. 

Back to 3 Nephi: Christ says "Arise and come forth unto me, that ye may thrust your hands into my side, and also that ye may feel the prints of the nails in my hands and in my feet, that ye may know that I am the God of Israel, and the God of the whole earth, and have been slain for the sins of the world." The multitudes fell on his feet, kissed them, and worshiped him. They hugged him, and felt his hand, feet and side wounds. They felt the love that he had for them. Every single person in the multitude had an opportunity to see the Savior with their own eyes. I can't hardly imagine for a second that even one of those Nephites wanted to shy away from the opportunity to meet the Savior, no matter what sins they bore. They wanted to see their Redeemer. They wanted to praise his name and be forgiven. 

I know without a doubt in my mind that when the Savior comes again, that I will not shy away. I will Arise and Come forth falling on His feet and praising His name. I know that when the Savior comes it will be a glorious and redeeming day. I am grateful for such a merciful, and loving Savior. I know that because of him, I will be able to live with my family for time and all eternity. I am grateful for the atonement and for the opportunity that it gives each of us to become clean again, and to build a relationship with our Savior. I know that he lives today, that he loves us, and that he is just a prays distance away from us. I truly cannot wait for the day when I can be reunited with my brother and Savior.

Sincerely,