Taralynn and Kory

Remind Me

2011-12-01T17:30:00.005-07:00

If...or should I say when, I am forgetful and scatterbrained after having my baby will someone please remind me that I want to replicate these cute pictures and this darling project?!

With the Dr Seuss books from Grandma Lori

With Grandpa Sibbett's firemen boot

With Dad's Boise State helmet

How much do you love this idea?

Do not let me forget!

Clothes

2011-10-18T17:23:00.000-06:00

Trying to find maternity clothes = difficult.
Trying to find baby clothes = piece of cake!

Letters

2011-10-10T10:39:00.001-06:00

First of all, THANK YOU for all the advice you left on this post. It was very helpful. Let the shopping begin!

9/16/11
Dear Baby,
We "saw" you today! I'm not gonna lie, I'm kinda with your cousin, Hunter. When his mom first showed him their ultrasound picture he said, "DINOSAUR!!!" I thought you kinda looked like a dinosaur at first. It took awhile for my eyes to adjust to "ultrasound mode."
The first thing the ultrasound tech did was find your gender. I'm told that you were sitting indian style and not shy at all. You are definitely a BOY! At this point, I was not seeing what she was even talking about but your dad says he saw "it" so I'll take their word and agree you are a boy.
After learning that you were a boy we saw the rest of you. We saw your little feet, your heart beating, your face squished up against my side and your thumb in your mouth. You are perfect! The ultrasound made your dad very excited. He said he wants you to come out now! Please don't listen to him, keep growing and we will see you for "real" in February!
Love, Mom

9/24/2011
Dear Baby,
I'm pretty sure moms worry about their children more than anyone or anything else. I'm not sure I can handle much more worrying in my life! So just be good and bear with me and I will pray a lot.
Love, Mom

9/27/2011
Dear Baby,
You have been kicking quite a bit lately. (Boise State could use a new kicker...you'll have to look into that if you like football!) Anytime now would be good for you to let your dad feel you kick. Why do you always stop when I tell him to come feel?? We're excited for your little kicks to get stronger!
Love, Mom

10/8/2011
Dear Baby,
A few days ago your dad felt you kick for the first time. His reaction wasn't as good as I expected. He just sorta smiled and said, "That's crazy!" and then went back to being more interested in the TV. So last night you decided to give him a good kick! We were laying in bed and he had his hand on my stomach. You kicked pretty hard and you woulda thought he had just burned his hand on a hot stove. He jerked it away so fast! (That was the kind of reaction I wanted! Thanks for helping me out.)
Dad: "Did you FEEL that?"
Me: "Umm yes, remember that child is actually INSIDE my stomach! Did he hurt you hand or something? Hahah"
Dad: "No, it just surprised me. That was a HARD kick. He's gonna be strong. He's gonna like hunting and hiking the hills with me."
Me: "Oh gosh. Yes, I'm sure he will."
I had to ask if he was just pretending the other night when he first said that he felt you, just to make me feel good. He promised that he really did feel something, but he wasn't convinced it was you at that time. We've got him convinced now!
Love, Mom

Happy Birthday

2011-10-06T17:19:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite person!

I think he's having a good day... He wanted to go golfing, but had a huge grin on his face when he woke up to SNOW!
My family got him a new hunting pack which is EXACTLY what he wanted. He's got it all packed for next weekend and has been wearing it around.

(This picture is from the first, and only, time I went hunting with him 3 years ago.)
I was working in the office but just went in the other room to find him watching a movie...wearing his CAMO!
I can't make this stuff up.

Advice

2011-10-04T20:00:00.001-06:00

I've already learned that when you are pregnant people are very happy to give advice. Unfortunately, it's not always about things you want to know. Here are some things I would love advice about:
Crib bumpers. Are they safe? Are they necessary? Should I get them? I've read conflicting things...
Diaper bag. To splurge or not to splurge? How much did you spend?
Stroller. My baby is due in February. Remember, I live in IDAHO! Do I need to have the stroller before he's born or is that something I can buy a little later? Also, am I going to want a stroller that his car seat will "clip" in to or can I get a stroller that is just a stroller? (does that make sense?)
Rocking chair, glider, recliner, just a swing for baby, none ...Help. Which one?
What is the ONE thing you could not have lived without during the first couple months of baby's life?
Most importantly, when can I start buying things? Is it too early? Are there any "big" items that are always on sale Black Friday? Will anyone get up at 4am to go buy those items for me on Black Friday?!
I think that's all...for now!

Random Ramblings

2011-09-28T11:26:00.000-06:00

Why does the ranch from a bottle taste so gross compared to homemade/restaurant ranch? They should be able to get them closer in taste...somehow!

It really bothers me when (like on game shows or reality shows) they call $250,000: a quarter of a MILLION dollars. $250,000 is not even CLOSE to a million, so the world million should not be included when describing that amount.

Kory is hunting. He tells me, "If the hunting is good, we probably won't be home before October 1st." I do not understand this. If the hunting is GOOD, shouldn't you be able to shoot something long before October 1st (which is TEN days after you leave to go hunting)?!? We apparently define the word "good" differently.

Nursery Inspiration

2011-09-27T09:14:00.002-06:00

A wall of license plates is definitely happening! Except, I'm learning that old license plates are kind of hard to come by. So if any of you want to help a girl out...start searching for me! Or if you're inspired too, let me know. We can split the cost of a set of all 50 state license plates on Ebay. Seriously!

How cute is this?! DIY project found here.

Love this colorful, ABC print. It's free here.
Thoughts?? Any other ideas for me??

And because I don't really want to stop decorating at the nursery...this is something I want to do in our bedroom. They're just spray painted ceiling medallions. Easy and relatively cheap!

Pregnancy Brain [episode 2]

2011-09-22T07:55:00.001-06:00

So my shower curtain smelled (blame that on the pregnancy too!) so I decided to wash it (and buy a new liner).

I take the shower curtain out of the dryer and notice that there are now a bunch of loose threads.
Here are the thoughts that follow my discovery:
Lame! I washed it on the "Delicate" cycle and dried it on "Low Heat." Why did all these threads come loose?
Well, can't exactly go back in time so I guess I will have to cut these off to make the curtain look good again.

Spend literally an HOUR meticulously cutting off all the little threads. I even took a picture of them for you...

Then I go to hang up the shower curtain and realize that the threads were on the BACK of the curtain...the part that is covered by the shower liner.
Awesome, huh?
Don't worry, there is some good news...now the back of my shower curtain looks just as good as the front! (Seriously, I took a picture and you can't tell the difference).

Letters

2011-09-21T08:34:00.002-06:00

8/16/2011
Dear baby,
Before I was even pregnant, when your dad was more baby hungry than I was (possibly as a bribe), he promised me DAILY massages the entire 9 months I was pregnant. So far he has done pretty great at keeping this promise. (Darn you hunting season!!) It's my favorite part of the day.
Love, Mom

8/23/2011
Dear baby,
We really need Aunt Amy to live here so when we are starving or craving oreos and your dad is on the night shift and we don't feel like going to the store, she can bring us food! Maybe when you get here you'll be cute enough to convince her to live in Idaho?!
Love, Mom

9/7/2011
Dear Baby,
I LOVE licking the brownie bowl and I enjoy a big spoonful...or two of cookie dough. This sacrifice is for you.
I love you (but I don't have to like you right now), Mom

Guns vs Hoses

2011-09-19T08:50:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, Kory played in a charity softball game, Guns vs Hoses -> Police vs Firemen->Sons vs Father. Yep, Kory's brother also works at the jail, but his dad is a firemen.

It was fun to watch them all out on the field! They are ridiculously competitive so we won't mention who won (mostly cause it wasn't Kory's team! HA)!
Total cheese ball smile. And please, love the PIG on his shirt! The opposite team was in charge of making shirts for the other.

Protective gear=firemen hat!

Verdict

2011-09-17T10:18:00.001-06:00

It's a boy!

Confused

2011-09-14T15:39:00.000-06:00

People say that some moms have an intuition and just know whether they're having a boy or a girl.
I am not one of those moms.
Here is a glimpse into my thought process over the past several months...
At first: It is totally a girl. I am so sick, they say you are more sick when it's a girl.
Then: My sister-in-law reminds me that she was sick for 5 months...with her boy!
So: Well good, maybe it's a boy. I really want a boy first. Am I allowed to even think that?!
Decided: It's a boy.
Confirmation: Had a dream that I had my ultrasound and it was indeed, a boy.
But lately: I really think it's a girl again. I just have a feeling.
Except: That dream is still throwing me off! Pregnancy dreams are supposed to mean something, aren't they?? (My translation of this: Pregnancy dreams should be accurate, shouldn't they??)

Are YOU confused now? Luckily, this confusion will all be put to rest on FRIDAY!
And yes, several are asking for a belly picture so I'll work on that. I really hate having pictures taken of just myself though...

Necklace

2011-09-13T16:18:00.000-06:00

My amazingly, talented Aunt Lynette made this beautiful pendant for me.

Can you guess what it is??

Yes, that is lace from my wedding dress!
What a cool idea is that? (Lynette gets all the credit!)
Now I can wear my wedding dress everyday...and it will fit forever!

It's Official...

2011-09-12T10:26:00.003-06:00

This baby has Idaho blood already! Recent craving: POTATOES!
Potato soup, mashed potatoes, french fries, funeral potatoes, etc. etc.

I'm not too worried though, I'm sure as our Arizona trip approaches the baby will show it's Arizona blood and crave Someburros, Pei Wei, Sweet Cakes, etc. etc.

Confession .16.

2011-09-09T09:20:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, I told Kory I was ready for cooler weather!
*Note: I did not say I was ready for ENDLESS months of FREEZING! But still...what is happening to me??

Confession .15.

2011-09-08T11:17:00.000-06:00

This is more like an interesting fact than a confession...but one time Kory got a sliver in his tongue from a kiwi seed.
I did not even know this was possible. Very strange.

Confession .14.

2011-09-07T11:26:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I use the computer mouse with my left hand.
Since I work from my computer all day, I use the mouse A LOT! My right hand/arm gets tired...so I use my left.

Confession .13.

2011-09-06T09:05:00.000-06:00

There is only one thing I have found that Kory actually keeps cleaner than me...that would be the toothpaste rim. Now don't be thinking mine is all gunked up and won't close! He just keeps his looking brand new, never any toothpaste around the rim.

Confession .12.

2011-09-05T07:53:00.001-06:00

So it's been a few months since I confessed anything, I figured it was time again to remind you of my OCD-ness.

There are two things I ALWAYS do the day before (or day of) a camping trip...cut my finger nails and clean my ears with a Q-tip. Cutting my nails short prevents excess, excess dirt from getting under them. And if I am going to feel dirty for 3++ days, I atleast want my ears to feel clean!

If I forget to do this, my fingers and ears are seriously the first two things that start bugging me when we're camping. Kory usually catches me doing one or the other before we leave and laughs EVERY time. I assure him, it helps me be a happy camper!

Pregnancy Brain??

2011-08-29T10:37:00.001-06:00

The other day, I needed butter. (When I told my mom this she thought I was being ambitious and baking something...nope, just making toast!) Anyway, I needed butter. I could have swore that I had a bunch in the freezer. Let's look in my freezer. Does anyone see the butter??

Well after searching and searching, I concluded that I did not have any butter and put peanut butter on my toast instead.
But hey, let's zoom in to the TOP shelf, totally EYE level...

Yes, clearly THREE boxes of BUTTER!
I noticed it about a week later when I opened my freezer to get something else.

Landscaping: Part 2

2011-08-26T12:40:00.001-06:00

It has taken me long enough to post this...back in JUNE we got grass! It is much better looking than a bunch of dirt and I actually like opening my blinds now!

Kory was so excited the night the sod was delivered he had to start laying it right away!

Proof that I did help (and I was already pregnant!) That stuff is HEAVY!

Our garden is growing like crazy! We have plenty of zucchini and tomatoes if anyone wants any! We should have corn, carrots, onions and squash pretty soon too.

Our cute (Boise State) chairs. Thanks mom!

And my new spring/summer wreath (that is only on my door some days, thanks to the lovely Idaho wind that likes to blow it away).

6/24/11
Dear Baby,
We have grass! This is a recent development so your dad is pretty excited about it. So excited in fact that he said he doesn't even want to teach his kids how to mow the lawn because he is going to enjoy mowing it so much. How lucky would you be if you NEVER have to mow our lawn?? We'll see how long your dad's excitement lasts.
Love, Mom

Letters

2011-08-09T14:20:00.001-06:00

6/20/2011
Dear baby,
The other day your dad asked, "Aren't you supposed to be more sick the first semester?"
After reminding him it was called a TRIMESTER I told him there was still plenty of time for me to get sicker...and he better not have jinxed it.
Love, Mom

7/22/2011
Dear baby,
I am very grateful that your dad has done the grocery shopping the past few weeks while I've been feeling sick 24/7, but seriously he is not very good at sticking to the list. Last night he came home with these extra items: salmon, gummy bears, chips, brownie mix and frozen pizza! I think he thinks he's a bachelor again or something. But I won't complain, at least he is not FORGETTING things ON the list!
Love, Mom

7/28/2011
Dear baby,
You seem to have quite a bit of control over my body right now, so if you could make sure I never get the hiccups when I'm already nauseous again, that would be fabulous! Thanks baby!
Love, Mom

Update

2011-07-27T12:18:00.000-06:00

I have been really bad about blogging lately. But you wanna know something?? You haven't missed out on much. I've been sick since about week 6 of this pregnancy and whoever named morning sickness, morning sickness was just being nice! Morning sickness actually translates into morning/afternoon/evening/night sickness. It's horrible! Hopefully since we've hit week 12 I will start feeling better. FINGERS CROSSED!
So I've been keeping a pretty good journal for myself since finding out I was pregnant, but I thought I'd fill you all in on a few details...
What kind of pregnancy test did you take: One that clearly/digitally said PREGNANT or NOT PREGNANT. I did not want to mess around with lines or colors, etc.
How many tests did you take: Two.
Who did you tell first: Kory. I wish he hadn't been home when I took the test so I could have told him in some big way...but he was there freaking out with me!
Was the baby planned: Yes, but that doesn't mean that I wasn't in complete shock when I took that pregnancy test. In fact, I'm still somewhat in shock! The whole thing is still sinking in.
Due date: February 7th, 2o12
Do you want to know the sex: Yes.
Any intuitions: I have a feeling that it's a girl, but I kind of want a boy first. Kory makes no sense...He thinks it's a girl, but says it will probably be a boy since "boys run in his family." Haha Either way, we will be happy!
Have you had any cravings: HA! Yes, one day it was a cinnamon roll, another day it was cucumbers. Very random. Honestly though, I got bad cravings even before I was pregnant so I have a feeling cravings are only going to get worse!
Mood swings yet: I don't think anything too dramatic.
Weight gain: 0 pounds

Question...

2011-07-19T16:24:00.000-06:00

Does this shirt make me look fat?!??

"Bump" Sibbett due February 7th, 2012!

Or as Kory likes to say, "The baaaBBBYYY is due in February."
For any of you that do not understand that reference, think Brian Regan or click HERE and see minute 1:46.

Quick Trip

2011-06-15T19:16:00.003-06:00

We went to Boise last Thursday for Kory's cousins wedding. It was a quick trip...more driving than "vacationing," but still worth it to spend time with family.
The ceremony was outside and then the dinner/reception in this big tent. It was a prefect day with gorgeous weather!

I thought it was cute that the couple's picture was turned into a sticker and put around the cider bottles!

On the way home we stopped at Shoshone Falls (apparently aka The Niagara of the West) in Twin Falls. Idaho has gotten a lot of snow/rain this season so the falls are bigger than ever.

Landscaping: Part 1

2011-06-03T11:06:00.002-06:00

I guess technically this might be like part 3 since last year we (ahem...Kory) put our sprinkler system in, planted our garden, put in three fruit trees and even got our first peach! But this is Landscaping Part 1 of 2011. We got our curbing done! Yeah, yeah I know it's not THAT exciting but soon that curbed off area will be full of pretty flowers, bushes, etc. I am so excited to see more than dirt when I look outside my windows!

All of our fruit trees have buds on them! Hopefully we will be enjoying apples, peaches and apricots later this summer!

We also purchased a patio set (which is dirty in this picture...thank you rain!) It's finally warming up so we'll be using that and our grill quite a bit!

Hopefully we will be able to get our grass laid by the end of this month!

Mesa Trip

2011-05-24T15:16:00.000-06:00

Kory and I went to Mesa last week...and I actually have pictures to prove it!! We were busy all week enjoying games with family, seeing Mama Mia (Kory's 1st Broadway experience!), finding Kory's new favorite restaurant in AZ (Ghengis Grill), having dinner with my friend Angela and her husband (sad we left before her baby shower), going to the Diamondbacks game with my aunt and uncle (sad we left before HER baby shower too!), taking family pictures and shopping!

It was harder to leave this time than other times...next time we'll have to stay longer!

(just a few...)Things My Mom Taught Me

2011-05-07T18:01:00.003-06:00

Attitude is everything.
Serve with a smile.

Don't forget your prayers.
Stay busy. Work hard.

Follow the prophet.
Life's not fair.
Be nice. Don't call your brother dumb.

Gratitude is shown by your actions.
Attend the temple often.

If it's not breathing, it's just stuff.
Smile and laugh!
Patience is important.

Spend (and save) your money wisely.
Take pictures.

Family is central to Heavenly Father's plan.
Say "I Love You"

Happy Mother's Day! Love, Taralynn

Baby Shower

2011-04-27T14:46:00.001-06:00

I threw a baby shower for my sister-in-law, Suzanne, last Saturday. It was my first "shower" and it went pretty well. Although, I'll have to throw at least 100 more to catch up with my mom! She has had dozens and dozens of showers at our house that are all a big, successful hit! Someday I'll have one as great as hers.

Anyway...I did have a fun time planning everything. I decided to go with a "Favorite Things" theme. I re-wrote the words to the Sound of Music song "Favorite Things" (with help from my family) and put them on the front of the invite.

At first I didn't want to make tissue paper pom-pom balls for the decorations. Those are cute, but have been used. I found this darling tutorial and decided I was going to make three. Well, I made one and it took FOREVER!!! So, after that, pom-pom balls it was!

I found this cute activity idea on a different blog (that I can't find now!) I had the guests sign future cards for Baby Sibbett and include some "favorite" memories of themselves. I didn't get much feedback on this idea, but I still think it's unique.

For the food I served some of Suzanne's "favorite" pregnancy cravings! Everything she craved was sweet (gummy worms, Sour Patch watermelon, eclairs...) so I also made some pasta salads. Those were a big hit!

Several people have asked for the recipes...
This is the Bacon Ranch pasta recipe I used, except basically I just used it for the ranch recipe. I didn't use tomato, olives or cheddar cheese. Instead I added peas and parmesan cheese (and of course included the bacon!).
Here is the Thai Peanut Noodle pasta recipe. I wasn't completely happy with the taste/texture of my dressing, but I'm not giving up on it. Maybe at the next shower it will taste even better! I didn't include chicken and I didn't put any peppers or onion in it either.
The Italian Pasta salad recipe I made up. It was just a box of pasta, cooked and tossed with Wish Bone Italian Dressing. I put mini pepperoni's in it (you can find at any grocery store), chopped green onions, olives and cheddar cheese.
Also, here is the link (again) to the Eclair Sheet Cake I served.

I only took pictures before I put the food out and right before I cleaned it up. Bad me! But the table looked adorable and I was happy to buy myself a few new serving bowls! (I LOVE new dishes!)

Random Friday Thoughts

2011-04-15T10:56:00.001-06:00

In response to yesterday's post, Kory and I were discussing these questions and just wanted to know all of your thoughts. I believe if you are on time then you are not late. On his mission, Kory was told that if you are not 15 minutes early, you are late. Unfortunately, it seems he only thinks this applies to work. He leaves super early for work! But we are sometimes later for church (which is embarrassing cause it's just the two of us and our ward is full of families with young kids...and they all manage to get there on time!) Kory has also been known to be late for a date...with me! Now that is just unacceptable!

Moving on, last night I was thinking...is it any coincidence that the acronym for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) also corresponds with Oldest Child Disorder (OCD)?? I'm not saying that being the oldest child is a disorder, I'm just implying that I am an oldest child and I tend to be a little obsessive and compulsive. Need convincing? See these: confession posts.

Somewhat along the same lines, I read this article the other day and this article, How birth order affects your love life and How birth order determines your romantic capability. (Click to see the full articles) This is what they said about "me."
If you’re an oldest child...It’s no coincidence that most U.S. Presidents were first-borns, because this is the sign of natural leaders. You’re a take-charge person, so not the type to drive friends and romantic partners crazy asking questions like, “I dunno where we should eat; where do you want to go?” Instead, you’ll make sure you have reservations — and land a prime table, too. And anyone lucky enough to pair up with you won’t spend weeknights wondering whether he or she has Saturday night plans, because “oldest kids are planners,” says Dr. Leman. You’re also old-fashioned (in a good way). You always come through on anniversaries and Valentine’s Day.
Your love challenge: Being more spontaneous. First-borns aren’t the “seize the day” sort (you’re not one to text your sweetie to suggest meeting at this fun café you just walked past). Likewise, “you hate surprises,” Dr. Leman warns. Pity the fool who springs meeting the parents on you or when you thought it was just the two of you going out tonight!
Best match: The youngest child. “It’s a case of opposites attracting,” says Dr. Leman. “You help the last-born be more organized, and the last-born helps you lighten up.”

The oldest child: the leader, a good citizen, responsible, responsive to parents’ expectations, well-organized, precise, and prone to perfectionism.
Best match for Female oldest child: The firstborn girl will usually have a leadership streak, so she’ll be happy with a lastborn. A firstborn girl with younger brothers will be happiest with a lastborn guy with older sisters.

I had to laugh because most of it is so true!! I am totally a planner and I HATE surprises. I like to know everything! As far as coming through on holidays...ask Kory about our 1st and 2nd Valentine's together!!! Kory is not the youngest child but he does have two older sisters!

And on a completely unrelated note, I NEED this rug for our office! The colors would go perfectly with our big world map. Please and thank you.

Debate

2011-04-14T11:59:00.004-06:00

Are you late if you're on time?

Do you have to be 15 minutes early to be on time?

Is work the only place it's important to be on time?

A [who.what.when.where.why.how.] Update

2011-04-12T11:26:00.001-06:00

Who has been trying more new recipes? Me! Might I recommend Spicy Honey Chicken Salad (Super yummy with mango and romaine lettuce! We weren't completely sold on the Honey-Citrus Vinaigrette the website recommends. We just used some extra glaze as our dressing.) , Baked Zucchini Fries, and Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pastry Pockets. (All from Our Best Bites. Told you I love that website!) I'm also excited to try Cake Batter Truffles and Eclair Sheet Cake. (Sorry, I don't know how to make my links open on a separate tab.)
What is Kory's goal for this month and next? LANDSCAPING! We've been getting quotes and saving our money so hopefully we will have grass, flowers beds and our garden in soon!
When is my sister coming? Saturday!! So excited to see her!
Where do we wish we were? In Fiji, with the in-laws, staying here. A tree-house hotel!! We are extremely jealous of Kory's parents fun trip without us. Kory said he'll take me...in 40 years! Isn't he nice?!
How do we know it's getting warmer? Despite the fact that it snowed last week, the wind has been out of control and rain is in the forecast for most of this week, our heat bill this month was $20 less than last month! Plus, Kory is golfing right now so obviously it's warming up!

Recipes and Weekly Menus

2011-03-24T14:21:00.001-06:00

I was flipping through a cookbook at my mother-in-laws house a few weeks ago, thinking to myself that so many of the recipes sounded yummy and that I really wanted this cookbook and then a few of them started looking familiar and then I realized that this cookbook started with a blog. So I came home and looked up the blog, Our Best Bites, and found all of those yummy recipes online! I have seriously considered pulling a Julie & Julia because I want to try every one of their recipes!

Last night I made their Thai Peanut Noodles. They were DI-vine!! Not even joking, get them on your menu! I had to borrow this picture from Our Best Bites blog because mine were devoured too fast to snap a pic.

I have been inspired by my cute friend Angela to be better at making (and sticking to) a weekly menu. I already have a few more recipes from Our Best Bites on my menu. I'll let you know which other ones you must try!

House Decor

2011-03-23T13:43:00.000-06:00

I got a text from a friend the other day wanting to know if I was alive...since I hadn't blogged in a while! I am alive! I don't know how people blog everyday. I blogged almost everyday for a month and got tired of it.

I am finally getting around to posting pictures of our office. Unfortunately I can not figure out why these pictures are kind of blurry, but you get the idea. That desk came in about 100,000,000 pieces! OK, maybe not that many but there were a lot of pieces and half of them were not labeled and the other half were labeled wrong! It took Kory and I about 5+ hours to put it together. I'm pretty sure we put it together wrong 3 times before finally figuring it out. Thanks to my brother, Jason, for my cute polka dot lamp! I had to get a polka dot mouse pad to go with it!

This is the latest project Kory has been busy with. My parents have a big map like this at my house so we decided we wanted one too! Of course, frames that size can cost a fortune so Kory volunteered to make one. It turned out great!! We put pins in each of the places we have traveled to. One pin color for Kory, one color for me and a color for places we've been together.

Completing the office is a picture of the Idaho Falls temple that my in-laws gave us for Christmas that I love!

My family came to visit us for their Spring Break and while they were here my mom bought us some cute Easter decor. (She also filled our pantry, fridge, bathroom and cleaning supply closets!) She's the best!

And what would a blog post be without a funny story about Kory. The other day we were talking with some friends about the skittles that decorate my kitchen "shelf." The first thing my 2 year old nephew does every time he comes to our house, is run to the kitchen and point to the candy! While we were talking about that, Kory was admiring the lemons.
"I can't believe how long those stay good," he said.
I was confused.
He asked me how often I change them out.
That is when I had to break it to him that the lemons were fake!
He actually thought that for the past year I had been changing out my decorative lemons!

Fill in the blank Friday

2011-02-25T13:45:00.001-07:00

Haven't done one of these in a while...

1. I am currently obsessed with wearing socks. Seriously, this is big. I used to never wear socks, but now I wear them all day (and sometimes to bed) .

2. Today (and this weekend) I am home alone because, Kory went golfing in St George (where it is supposed to snow this weekend).

3. The age I am is 22 and the age I feel is 17. I really think people stopped asking me how old I was after I turned 17 because sometimes I forget how old I am, I'm always thinking 17??!

4. My favorite place is my warm bed, cuddling with Kory.

5. Something I have been procrastinating is going to the bank and mopping my floor.

6. The last thing I purchased was groceries. I know, super exciting!

7. The thing I love most about my home is Honestly, I can't pick just one thing. I LOVE my house. It finally feels like home.

Questions from Here.

Weekend

2011-02-22T14:04:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend at Pine Basin. It used to be a ski hill lodge, but has since been converted into a cabin.

We played lots of games, rode sleds and snowmobiles, ate sweets and didn't get much sleep.

Kory and Tanner in their "matching" crocheted hats. They even made them themselves. So crafty they are!

The day we were supposed to leave we woke up to this...

See the snowmobile handles? They were just about completely covered. "Luckily" it cleared up and the roads re-opened so we made it home just in time for Kory to go to work last night.

A few scenes you missed because we don't have a video camera (thinking about saving up for one...)
-Kory wiping out coming down the hill on a sled, getting up from his crash and diving right back on the sled...but the sled not budging so he basically went head first into the snow!
-All of the couples playing the Newlywed game. Lots of laughs. Kory's answer to "If you could be anyone famous (dead or alive) who would you be?"
"Whoever is dating/married to Rachel McAdams!"
-Kory underestimating the size of a jump and taking BOTH of us off of it on the snowmobile. Me flying off.

Which brings us to another one of Kory's answers to a Newlywed question "What is your spouse's most repeated phrase?"
"I'm sorry!" HA HA
*For the record, he got both of those answers wrong.

February Goal Photos

2011-02-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

Frozen Yogurt at my new favorite place, Kiwi Loco. Kory looks a little too excited about his if you ask me!

Homemade cinnamon rolls for Valentine's Day breakfast.

Here is Kory putting some finishing touches on our new desk. Still finishing yet another project for the office...then I'll post pictures of the completed room!

Want to play a guessing game? It's called "How in the world did Taralynn get this bruise?" Unfortunately, I don't even have the answer. I swear I get big bruises just out of no where!

Look at this darling table runner my friend Amber made for me. She is talented! It's a total plus to have talented friends...so I don't have to be all that crafty!

I have fallen in love with this wreath on my door! (Thanks Mom!) I put it up for Christmas, justified it stay up until Valentine's Day (since it's red) but now I don't want to take it down. Guess I need to go shopping to find a spring wreath to fall in love with.

I'm Addicted

2011-02-16T07:54:00.000-07:00

Chicken Won Ton Tacos from Applebees.

Our new Micro Dry Memory Foam bath rugs from Bed, Bath and Beyond. (A little pricey, but definitely worth it!)

Prison Break on Netflix.

This cute download. You can get it for free from this blog.

Weekend

2011-02-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend was Kory's Grandma Sibbett's funeral. Her funeral was very nice; memories were shared, funny stories were told and testimonies were born.

She was the youngest of 14 children.
She worked for the telephone company which is now Qwest.
She survived a heart attack in her late 20's.
She loved painting ceramics.
She enjoyed coaching/watching her kids and grandkids play sports.
She was a night owl. Even known to call her kids (after they were married and moved out) at 2am to see what they were up to.
She loved to play card games and never cheated ;)
She was a democrat.
One funny story that was told...A friend of Grandma's recently asked her how her and her family were doing. She looked her friend straight in the eye and said, "I feel like I have failed as a mother." Grandma's son overheard this and was curious to see why she felt this way. She continued, "All I've raised is a bunch of Republicans!"
Anyone who knew Grandma could testify that she was quick to tell you exactly what she thought about any subject.
At the funeral, each of her children thanked their mom for raising them in the gospel and always being quick to forgive and love them.

A Post About Marriage

2011-02-13T20:11:00.001-07:00

{Pretty much} Any newlywed that tells you the 1st year of marriage is perfect, amazing, total bliss...is lying! Maybe I am the naive one for believing them but I'm sorry, the 1st year was hard! And because I had so many newlyweds tell me how great their 1st year was, I thought we were doing something wrong. Until I had a heart to heart with a good friend who laughed at me and said, "You're not the only one. Marriage can be hard."

"Two people coming from different backgrounds learn soon after the ceremony is performed that stark reality must be faced. There is no longer a life of fantasy or of make-believe; we must come out of the clouds and put our feet firmly on the earth. Responsibility must be assumed and new duties must be accepted. Some personal freedoms must be relinquished, and many adjustments, unselfish adjustments, must be made."

Marriage is definitely a learning process. I had to learn how to live with a fisher, hunter, golfer, Etc. Kory had to learn to live with someone that had never lived with a fisher, hunter, golfer, Etc. Haha I had to learn how to be a wife, not just a girlfriend, a daughter or sister. Kory had to learn how to be a husband. We've learned how to anticipate each others needs before they're even a "need." We continue to learn that life (and marriage) is not fair.

"One comes to realize very soon after marriage that the spouse has weaknesses not previously revealed. The virtues which were constantly magnified during courtship now grow relatively smaller, and the weaknesses which seemed so small and insignificant during courtship now grow to sizable proportions."

Kory and I have discovered quite a few of each others weaknesses since being married. Luckily we've improved upon several marriage strengthening traits along the way. We are now better listeners, communicaters, compromisers, budgetors, planners, forgivers, forgetters, scripture readers, prayers, unconditional lovers.

I absolutely love this quote from President Eyring's talk, Our Perfect Example, "I give counsel to husbands and wives. Pray for the love which allows you to see the good in your companion. Pray for the love that makes weaknesses and mistakes seem small. Pray for the love to make your companion’s joy your own. Pray for the love to want to lessen the load and soften the sorrows of your companion."

If you pray for these things and let the Lord help you do these things, even before you are married, then your 1st year of marriage can be bliss!

*Quotes in teal are from Spencer W. Kimball's talk found here.

February 9th Photos

2011-02-09T15:38:00.000-07:00

In case you already forgot, I'm taking pictures everyday this month.

Unfortunately for you, nothing too exciting is happening at our house today so you get to see pictures of laundry day.

Luckily, I caught both of these before they went through the washer/dryer. From (too much) previous experience I know that these items do NOT wash well.

Anyone else hang some of your clothes to dry so they don't shrink in the dryer?

Obviously I could use ideas of better things to photograph this month. Let me know if you have any suggestions!

Weekend

2011-02-08T15:17:00.000-07:00

Two years ago at this time we were taking pictures of our toes in the sand on the beach and enjoying every minute of our cruise!

This year...

We are not. It's all about the moccasins!

But don't feel too sorry for me because I did get to warm up this weekend in Mesa!

It's always great to spend time at home with my family. I was able to see my brother, Jason, play his last basketball game of the season,

(as always) I ate out with family and friends,

we did a little shopping and went to Jesterz.

(DON'T ASK!)
Trips home are never long enough.

What'dya Know...

2011-02-04T08:47:00.001-07:00

It's my sweet tooth talking again! I figured since it's Superbowl weekend some of you might need a new recipe.

Rocky Road Brownies
*For the brownies
2 c. sugar
4 TB cocoa
2 tsp vanilla
dash of salt
2 cubes butter
4 eggs
2 c flour
Bag of mini marshmallows
*Cream the first 5 ingredients together. Add the eggs one at a time. Add flour.
Bake in a 9x13 pan at 350 for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes take the brownies out and cover top with mini marshmallows. Bake 5 more minutes. Remove and cool.

*For the frosting
2 1/2 c. powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla
2 TB milk
2 TB cocoa
3/4 c. butter, softened
Cream all ingredients together. Frost brownies once they have cooled.
Sprinkle brownies with chopped walnuts

DE-LISH!!!

PS - Random fact for you...my father-in-law told us, that an employee at one of our local grocery stores told him, that more groceries are purchased in the week leading up to the Superbowl than ANY other week in the year! I personally find this hard to believe (I mean, what about Thanksgiving?) but he swears it's true.

February 2nd Photos

2011-02-03T09:32:00.002-07:00

See that sun? That sun is not that same sun that shines in Arizona. That sun has absolutely ZERO degrees of heat! Actually, it has -28 degrees of heat!

I hate that about the sun here. Looks like a nice day, sun is shining, sky is blue, walk outside...CAN'T FEEL ANYTHING! SNOT IS FROZEN! I told Kory yesterday I think hell might really be cold, not hot.

To make me happier on such a cold, sunny day we got Panda for dinner. (Note the plastic fork!!)

Then we went to Lowe's for the 3rd time in 1 week. (I don't even mind going to Lowe's because they play good music in that store!) Just finishing up some projects around the house.

t'hair'apy

2011-02-02T11:08:00.002-07:00

My friend Kayla is amazing! I owe my long locks these days (and my cute curls pictured above) to her. Several months ago I was frustrated with my hair. It would NOT grow longer. I kept cutting my split ends thinking they were damaged just from my blow dryer and straightener, but Kayla told me my hair was damaged because I live in Idaho. My poor Arizona hair was sooo dry.

She recommended this dry remedy conditioner. I used to be very anti-pay $30 for a bottle of conditioner, but this stuff is awesome!! I can tell that my hair is healthier and it has been growing out so much better since I started using it.

And here is photo number 1 (for my February goal). Got my hair trimmed and curled yesterday.

*Kayla works at Centennial Salon in Idaho Falls!

February Goal

2011-02-01T09:00:00.000-07:00

When Kory and I got home from our Christmas trip to Arizona I kicked myself over and over because I hardly took any pictures! So my resolution was that 2011 would be better. I was going to take lots of pictures. Then guess how many I took the entire month of January??

ZERO!

That means I don't have pictures of...
New Year's Eve dinner and games with Kory's family.
My brother Scott's visit/snowboarding with Kory.
When I had my cousin and friends over for dinner.
Our last college football party of the season, lots of food and friends.
My new desk and (almost complete) decorated home office.

Anyway, back to the goal...
I am going to take at least one picture (of something or someone) EVERY day in February!
(I told Kory this and he said that we already have enough pictures! In his defense, he meant we have enough frames on the wall. He agreed that I can take more pictures and change some out.)
So if you see me during the month of February, make sure I pull out my camera!! I'll post my pictures every couple of days too, just to keep me accountable.

PS - Our Christmas was amazing and definitely blog-worthy, but I was just so upset that I barely had any pictures I never blogged about it. If you really want to hear about it, my mom's blog has two different posts with pictures and details about our Christmas trip HERE and HERE.

Confession .11.

2011-01-31T08:55:00.001-07:00

Honestly, I did not realize how OCD I was until after I confessed all those things to you. Fortunately a lot of you could relate to some of my quirks and it's good to know that I'm not the only one.

And now the last confession...for a while at least.

I take FULL advantage of working from home. I am usually in warm, comfortable PJ's til lunch time.

Or later!

Confession .10.

2011-01-28T08:14:00.002-07:00

I buy my hand soap and Kleenex boxes to match the decor of the room I am putting them in.

I have never specifically told Kory this, but he was at the store with me the other day and I needed to buy some more Kleenex. Since it was taking me a while to put one in the cart he said, "What? Can't find one that matches the bathroom?"

GAW! He figured me out. I'm actually kinda flattered that he had noticed!

Confession .9.

2011-01-27T07:51:00.001-07:00

It drives me crazy when people come out the door labeled ENTER or go in the door labeled EXIT at Wal Mart.

Even if I park closer to the Exit door, I always go in the Enter door. Seriously, it's only like 3 extra steps.

One of these days they need to make it so the automatic doors only open from the correct side.

Confession .8.

2011-01-26T07:01:00.003-07:00

When I get take out from Panda Express I always grab a plastic fork.

Panda seriously tastes different if you eat it with a "real" fork.

Confession .7.

2011-01-25T08:58:00.001-07:00

Kory smells each and every article of clothing before putting it on.

This includes socks.

I have no idea when/where/why this habit started.

I have thought about putting dirty socks in his drawer!

Confession .6.

2011-01-24T07:40:00.001-07:00

My bed has to be made before I get in it to sleep. I need the blankets to be straight and evenly "distributed" on my side and Kory's side.

Sometimes this means I make my bed right before I go to bed.

Confession .5.

2011-01-21T08:06:00.002-07:00

Kory sets his alarm for 5:38 am.

Not 5:35 or even 5:40.

The time my alarm goes off always ends with a :_0 or :_5

Confession .4.

2011-01-20T07:34:00.001-07:00

I mop my floors on my hands/knees. (As opposed to with a mop on a stick.) I can make sure they're clean better down there.

Kory and my sister (and maybe others?!) will tell you I'm kinda OCD when it comes to cleaning. I remind them that I could be obsessed with much worse things.

Confession .3.

2011-01-19T08:25:00.001-07:00

Kory LOVES Sam's Club. We have been known to just go wander around that store.

His favorite sections...the TV and meat aisles.

Confession .2.

2011-01-18T07:50:00.002-07:00

Last week we had leftovers for dinner...

Three nights in a row!

But hey, if it makes any difference, we had something different all three nights!

Kory claims that when we were dating I swore that we would never eat leftovers. That does sound like something I would say. Obviously, I had a change of heart.

Confession .1.

2011-01-17T08:55:00.001-07:00

I don't fold my fitted sheets.

I sorta just roll them into a ball and stuff them in the closet!

One of Kory's mission companions and his family stayed with us a few months ago. (The mission companion's mom) folded a fitted sheet so PERFECTLY, it would have fit in "new sheet packaging"! I was amazed, but didn't see it until after they had left so I couldn't have her show me how.

Confessions, coming right up

2011-01-15T13:12:00.000-07:00

My mom saw my boss at a party last night. He told her that I am so quiet and hardly ever tell him anything. He was surprised to hear that my brother came to visit us last weekend. I know, heaven forbid I didn't tell my boss all my weekend plans! HA!

But, if you know my boss you would realize that this probably drives him crazy. He loves to be entertained. 99% of the time he would rather talk about anything besides work...actually I think he would prefer to talk about something besides work 100% of the time!

I might tell my boss more if I actually SAW him everyday. But since he is in AZ and I'm in ID, I only talk to him through Skype. I only call him through Skype if I have something work related to talk about. I think it's a little weird to be telling him all about my life through a computer. I personally prefer to have conversations face to face.

Nevertheless, he asked for it! So, starting on Monday, for the rest of the month, I will be confessing things about myself (and Kory) through the computer, via our blog. And I'm sure when/if my boss reads any of these things I will also get to discuss my confessions over Skype.

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-12-10T15:00:00.002-07:00

OK some of these blanks are too "open" (if you know what I mean..??) And I feel like I've already answered some of these before, but maybe not. Either way...here we go:

1. I wish I could win $1000. I told Kory this the other and he laughed at me. He said if I am making wishes about winning money, I should wish for a bigger amount. How greedy is he?? KIDDING!

2. Yesterday I worked, took care of Kory after he sprained his ankle at work, went to dinner in Rexburg with friends .

3. Today I will finish working, pay some bills online, maybe do some Christmas shopping tonight since Kory has to work, watch some cheesy Lifetime Christmas movie (again, only cause Kory will be working!)

4. Tomorrow I will sleep in and then pretty much repeat everything I plan on doing today (besides work) Pretty boring weekend, I know. Hate it when Kory has to work .

5. Maybe I will make cinnamon rolls because I have been craving them!?

6. Someday I won't hate driving in the snow so much...hopefully!

7. I love how the holidays smell. Currently I have the "Fresh Balsam" wallflower plugged in in our family room, so even though we don't have a Christmas tree this year it smells like we do!

Holiday Treats

2010-12-01T10:12:00.003-07:00

Remember how I have a major sweet tooth? Ok, then it is no surprise that one of my favorite things about the holidays is the treats!! If you have never tried these...this is the year!
Ghiradelli's Peppermint Bark. Seriously so good. Last year Kory made fun of me because I was eating something called "bark." But who was the first one requesting these little pieces of heaven THIS year? That's right...Kory! They only sell these during the holidays, so stock up (and hide them from your husband)!

Starbucks White Hot Chocolate. Even better than regular hot chocolate. Super creamy and delicious. And I'm pretty sure there is a Starbucks located in every airport in the U.S. (well besides the Idaho Falls airport HA!) so order one of these next time you're waiting for your flight!

Grasshopper Shots. Sounds even more disgusting than "bark" huh? Well, after you try this you will be hooked. Here's how it works: Make some hot chocolate. Take a small bite out of each end of the grasshopper. Suck a little bit of the hot chocolate through the cookie (as if the cookie were a straw). Put the grasshopper in your mouth. (Hopefully I have described the process well enough.) The end result should be literally melt in your mouth perfection.

What's your favorite holiday treat??

Oh sNOw!

2010-11-23T14:34:00.000-07:00

I was talking to my mom the other day and she asked if I thought temperatures in 60's would make it too cold to eat Thanksgiving dinner outside (in Arizona). I told her if anyone wanted to complain..they could call me.

I am thankful that we will be eating inside!

Deja Vu...Pun Intended

2010-11-20T09:13:00.001-07:00

Can anyone think of an actor that is capable to playing the hero of a crisis involving a mode of transportation??

If they ever make a movie about the pilot that landed his plane on the Hudson I'm pretty sure I know who should play the pilot!

Are you a "roller person?"

2010-11-17T15:34:00.001-07:00

The other day I used the bathroom and noticed that the toilet paper was almost gone. (**Keyword: ALMOST...as in it was not gone yet. And yes, there was more than just like one sheet left. Just want to make that clear.)
Because the extra rolls of toilet paper are in a cupboard above and behind the toilet I was nice enough to set out another roll, just in case the next time someone used the bathroom they needed more than the little bit left on the roll.
Well sure enough, the next time I go in there the "original" roll was empty and the "new" roll was now sitting on top of the "roller"/dispenser.
I personally think that if you are the one that uses the last of the toilet paper, you should put the new one on. Right??!
So I decided that, since I wasn't that person, I wasn't going to put it on. So there it stayed, on top of the roller. It remained there for several days, everyday containing less and less paper. It got to the point where the "new" roll was almost gone too!
So of course, it was time to have a conversation with the person that (I consider) responsible for putting the new roll on the roller.

(Location: Kory is getting into bed, I am finishing getting ready for bed in the bathroom.)
Me: Why haven't you put the toilet paper on the stinkin' roller??
Kory: HAHAH
Me: That's not funny. I know you are the one that used the last of the "old" roll.
Kory: I wanted to see how long you would just leave it there. Well, and then I decided maybe you weren't a roller person and this was your way of telling me.
Me: What? Not a "roller person?"
Kory: Yeah, I thought maybe you don't like your toilet paper on the roller.
Me: ?????? Well, I actually do like my toilet paper on the roller so...
Kory: Ok, ok. I will put it on in the morning.
Me: (Since I'm still in the bathroom...goes and puts the new roll on the roller; cause I'm stubborn like that and now I don't want Kory to have the satisfaction!)
Me: Have you ever met someone that wasn't a "roller person?"
Kory: Yes. My first mission companion.
Me: I guarantee the only reason he wasn't a "roller person" is because his mom wasn't there to put it on for him.

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-11-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

No, my happy thought is not rain and it is definitely not snow! But if either of those things happen to be falling outside new windshield wipers will make me happy!!

Ok, maybe it's because I am from Arizona but I honestly did not know that you have to CHANGE your windshield wipers. Haha I really thought they would last just as long as the car. And hey, maybe they do in Arizona but they do not in Idaho. It really does make a huge difference when you can actually SEE out your windshield when it's raining/snowing.

**Another thing I did not know is that you have to put certain "cold weather" windshield wiper fluid in your car if you prefer it not FREEZE in the winter. Yes, mine was frozen all last winter! So if you and your car are new to cold weather, I'd recommend you change it now before it's too late.

Boise...STATE!

2010-11-09T11:08:00.000-07:00

(If you've ever been to a Boise State game, you've heard the Boise...STATE! chant.)

Kory and I made the trip to Boise for their game vs Hawaii this past Saturday. It wasn't as close of a game as we thought it was going to be, but we can't complain cause they won! If it looks like I was sick/sleeping in the car for the entire first half of the game...that's because I WAS! Yes, I got sick. It was no fun. We didn't even get to eat at PF Chang's or the Cheesecake Factory like we had planned. Major bummer. Luckily, Kory's cousins live in Boise and go to all the games so Kory had someone to sit/hang out with. Hopefully we'll be able to go to and actually enjoy many more games together!

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-11-05T11:01:00.000-06:00

1. If I didn't have to work anymore I would be bored. Been there, done that. I don't mind working.

2. My favorite thing about a vacation is EATING OUT! Being that I live in Idaho Falls (which doesn't have some of my favorite restaurants), lots of my vacation revolve around where we're going to eat.

3. When packing for a trip I make a list. Is that dumb? I pride myself in never forgetting anything...and having a list is how I have accomplished this feat so many times. I also have a very set way of actually putting things into a suitcase. I personally think the way I pack allows for the most stuff in the least amount of space/bag.

4. One of my "travel dreams" is hmm...not sure I can pick just one, but I would love to be on The Amazing Race. It would definitely be a new way to experience different parts of the world.

5. My top 3 absolute travel essentials are
1)I-pod
2) A bag for dirty clothes (Yes, I really pack a garbage bag. I don't want my dirty cloths in with my clean clothes all vacation.)
3) And now that I travel with Kory/his family who love the play games, a deck of cards.
Unless I am going camping then the essentials would be toilet paper, Clorox wipes and fingernail clippers!

6. Vacations are never often or long enough.

7. On vacation you must always sleep in, go shopping, order dessert!!

I'm Addicted...

2010-11-04T08:03:00.000-06:00

To this super cute clock my parents gave us for our Anniversary! Finally I have something hanging on the wall in my bedroom.

To The Food Network. Recently I've found several shows that I love to watch...

To chocolate/caramel covered apples! Oh my goodness!! Kory's sister made some for us when she was in town and I could not get enough! If you would like to bring/send me one...I'll give you my address ;)

EPA

2010-11-03T15:08:00.000-06:00

Eyebrow Plucker's Anonymous.

I tend to get a little carried away when I pluck my eyebrows. Does anyone else have this issue??
I am currently "growing them out." Bet you haven't heard that one before?! Growing out your hair...yes. But growing out eyebrows, no.
I'm pretty sure your eyebrows are supposed to arch from one side of your eye ALL the way to the other end of your eye. Mine do not. The outer edge has slowly been plucked too far in!

Luckily my eyebrows are light so it's not THAT big of deal, but everytime I look in the mirror, I notice!

I have a problem. I'm looking for support. Someone take my tweezers!

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-10-28T08:53:00.000-06:00

Haven't done one of these in a while...

Today's Happy Thought is breakfast for dinner!

Since I'm not a big "breakfast in the morning person", I love making a big breakfast for dinner!

Halloween Party

2010-10-27T11:38:00.000-06:00

Kory's family has a Halloween Party every year. Costumes are required, my favorite part!! (sarcasm...)
But the party is always fun. Good food, fun games and lots of treats!
Can you tell we are golfers?? Kory was in charge of deciding what to dress up as this year so he get's the credit...

A few of the "Best Costume" winners...
Kory's sister and brother-in-law (Nicole and Rob) as Dog the Bounty Hunter and his wife, Beth

Kory's cousin (he's 18 I might add! Haha)

Kayden and Hunter

We played games from the show 'Minute to Win It'
Here is Kory catching ping pong balls in a cup, stacking a cup on that, then catching another ping pong ball.

And here we are trying to move an Oreo cookie from our forehead to our mouth using only the muscles in our face. Cute, huh?!

Two Years Ago...

2010-10-24T08:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Anniversary!

And if any of you would like to complain about what happened to your car the night of your reception...STOP! Seriously, we definitely have you beat!
Needless to say, we got to stop at a do-it-yourself car wash for a good hour. Good thing I had changed out of my dress and heels...Kory was still in his tux, real classy!
Bird seed, chocolate syrup, saran wrap, something white??!

And they didn't forget the inside. Lucky for you, you can't smell this.

Confession

2010-10-23T21:23:00.000-06:00

Kory is at work.

I am watching College Football.

Not even Boise State or Arizona.

Oklahoma and Missouri football. Random!

What has happened to me??

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-10-22T11:40:00.000-06:00

1. I am craving The Olive Garden.

2. I wish Kory would just shoot a deer and come home from hunting.

3. I like vacations, taking pictures, anything sweet, cute quotes, getting mail, sleeping in, singing in the car, a clean house.

4. I can hardly wait to go to Boise with Kory in a few weeks for a mini-"vacation"/Boise State football game. October has been so busy, I'm excited to spend a whole weekend with him!

5. I hope it doesn't snow next week, like the forecast has predicted.

6. I think I stress too much.

7. I was so tired last night, but couldn't fall asleep once I got in bed.(Probably due to #6) Hate when that happens.

Questions found Here.

Did I Mention...

2010-10-19T18:03:00.000-06:00

We got a calling. We've had it for a few months now, but I don't think I ever wrote about it. Kory and I are serving in the nursery! (One of THREE nurseries in our ward!) I guess that's what happens when you move into a young ward and don't have kids yet.

We have between 5-8 kids every Sunday and usually they are great...but this last Sunday they were on one. (And I kept thinking, Great! It's not even the Halloween weekend yet!) They were running circles around me, yelling "TAG, you're it" (but not really playing tag) and turning on and off the lights (because someone put the light switch low enough that the nursery kids can reach). Lovely! But really, it was just an odd week because usually they are happy and relatively quiet and content playing with the toys.

PARIS

2010-10-18T09:17:00.000-06:00

October 17, 2007
We drove to Paris today! It was a quick drive cause I slept almost the entire way. But we got to Paris and drove right to the Champs Elyses and checked into our hotel which is just down the street from the Arch de Triomphe.

We took the metro to Sacre Couer, a church at the top of TONS of stairs (I stopped counting long ago). On the way up we say Corbin Blue from High School Musical.

After touring the church we had some free time to shop around so of course we found some crepes and then watched some of the artists on the street.

Finally we got to take the metro to the Eiffel Tower! When I first saw it, it was unreal. I couldn’t believe that I was standing in front of the Eiffel Tower! We got to see it when the sparkly lights turned on and then we all took the elevator to the top!

October 18, 2007
So the Rugby World Cup is going on in Paris and the metro workers decided it would be the perfect time to go on strike. Consequently those who work at the Louvre and Musee D’Orsay don’t go to work either. We had free time ALL day - which would have been great and fun except the metro wasn’t running, museums/touristy locations were closed. But me and Amber did find some more crepes and a few souvenir shops. OH, I should mention that we walked ALL the way to the Louvre (approx. 1 hr. walk) this morning before learning it was closed. So it took a good 2 hours to walk back to our hotel after we walked even further to see Notre Dame (the only thing that was randomly open). The positive on the day is that we got to take a nap!

October 19, 2007
It was a crazy busy day today cause we had things planned PLUS we had to get in everything that we couldn’t do yesterday. First we drove to Versailles. I loved the palace! It’s huge and gorgeous! The Hall of Mirrors was my favorite. It was overcast so I don’t think we enjoyed the gardens as much as we would have on a sunny day. The gardens stretched on forever with fountains, etc.

After touring there, we went to the Musee D’Orsay. Most of the art there is weird and not too interesting to look at. The Musee D’Orsay used to be a train station so the building itself was unique.

Finally we got to go back to the Louvre. Bro. Sturm warned us that it was a little over-rated. Of course we all just wanted to see the Mona Lisa which is TINY compared to the other pieces there. I was surprised that it was in such a well lit room and that we were able to take pictures of it.

After the Louvre me, Bree and Amber went to the Hard Rock Cafe (again)!

A few details about our hotel in Paris...Wow!
-Two tiny, cot sized beds pushed together so it’s practically just one small bed
-Not so much walking room
-Smells like garlic/cigarette smoke
-Random tiny holes in the comforters (Erin swears she heard mice?!)
-Bathroom = closet sized. If my arms were stretched out at shoulder height I wouldn’t be able to turn in a circle without my arms hitting all four walls
-Shower = faucet coming out of wall with shower curtain dividing closet sized room in half = everything in the bathroom gets wet during the shower.
-Sink = tiny! Can’t fill up water bottles cause they don’t fit under the faucet.
-Toilet paper is located directly behind the toilet. What is that all about??
-Electricity went out three times this morning for about 3-5 minutes at a time...?!?

Munich Germany

2010-10-15T15:12:00.000-06:00

October 15, 2007
We went to the Disneyland Castle! Well it’s actually the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is in the prettiest location, all the leaves were changing colors and the weather was perfect so the hike up to the castle wasn’t bad at all. The inside of the castle is only partly finished because King Ludwig started building the castle, but died before it was finished. I don’t really know why nobody completed it.

After touring the castle we went to a grocery store...all 50 of us to specifically buy chocolate! It was total madness! But we all got plenty of chocolate. Then for dinner we went to the Hard Rock Cafe. It was so good. Whenever we can find “real” American food it’s always exciting, which is sad since we’re in Europe...but American food is just so good and we always know what we’re actually ordering!

Berlin and Denmark

2010-10-13T10:08:00.000-06:00

October 11, 2007
This morning we traveled to Berlin for the day. We went to the Legislative Building first (I guess this is comparable to the U.S. White House). Part of this building is older and still has bullet holes from WWII.

Next we went to a Holocaust Memorial. It covers a huge amount of space, I think almost an entire block. All it is is concrete slabs that vary in size and stretch on for rows and rows.

We grabbed some dinner on the way to the Berlin Airport. The last thing Dana said as we all got off the bus way, “I see ‘Home Alone’ chaos playing out in my head.”

So all 50 of us are in line waiting to get checked in. When I hand them my passport they told me that I had no reservation - 6 of us were told this. We realized that we were the last 6 to be admitted to the tour and the names on the plane tickets were never changed. Since it was less than 2 hours before the flight took off no new tickets could be purchased unless we got on the phone with some other specific ticket counter. So we tried calling but it was busy and continued to be busy for an hour. So by that point we had started trying to figure out where we were going to stay the night, if we wanted to book a flight taking off the next morning, what we could see in Berlin, etc. We had basically given up hope in being able to go because the counter people kept telling us there was no way once the 2 hour mark passed. But the phone rang 46 minutes before our flight was supposed to take off...it was the other ticket center. They told us they could sell us new tickets right then. So Bro. Anderson got all the paperwork finished, they checked our passports and we passed through security to catch our plane!

October 12, 2007
Today was an amazing day! Hopefully I will be able to remember everything that I want to write. This morning we took the train to the Fredricksberg Castle. It is in a gorgeous location with a pretty lake around it and lots of tree/gardens. In this castle are some of Carl Bloch’s original paintings. It’s interesting cause the castle is huge and these paintings are magnificent but are definitely not a major focal point. They are hung in a very small (bathroom sized) room that is very poorly lit. It’s too bad that the church can’t somehow obtain them and display them better.

Next we went to a church where the original Christus is. The spirit was so strong. It was a really neat experience. Also, sculptures of the 12 Apostles line the aisles of the church.

Next we had free time to get some dinner and we found delicious waffles!! They were so good - covered with whipped cream and jam!

Finally we got to go the the Copenhagen Temple. We changed our clothes in the LDS Church just across from the Temple. The church had a Christus in it which was cool.

The Temple is a very simple 3-story red brick building. The Temple President, Bro. Jacobs met with us and told us a little bit of history about the Temple. I loved the mural painted around the font in the baptistry. It was a gorgeous portrayal of Christ being baptized by John.

October 13, 2007
We had free time all day today, so it was up to us to entertain ourselves.

The group I went with started out at a Danish History Musuem which we could have spent hours at. The exhibits included daily items - clothes, toys, magazine clips, etc. - that sort of explained each decade of Denmark’s history.

At noon we were at the Palace to see the changing of the guard.

Next we walked up to the Danish Resistance Museum that is filled with artifacts from WWII.

Then we made our way to the Little Mermaid statue which was sorta a let down. I think I need to learn what the significance of that statue really is. It was small and I thought it would be further out in the water. But anyways, we took some pictures and kept walking by the water to find the dock that alot of the pioneers left from. There’s a small statue and plaque explaining the significance of the spot. On the cobblestone path are names of those who left from that dock.

Then we just went window shopping and got some more waffles!! And after we headed back to the train station to go to the airport and fly back to Berlin. We did have a little more airport drama. As we were standing in line to get it all worked out the man behind us asked what was going on. After we explained our problem he told us that he was the U.S. Ambassador of Denmark and if we got stuck there for the night the Embassy could accommodate us! Too bad we got it all resolved.

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-10-08T11:05:00.000-06:00

Questions found HERE.

1. The first thing I do in the morning to start my day is take a shower and brush my teeth.

2. Today I wish I was still in bed because it's cloudy and cold today (plus Kory is still sleeping, because he had to work last night).

3. If I had an extra $100 in my bank account today I'd probably just save it in there. I'm responsible like that!

4. Tomorrow I'll probably clean the house a little, go grocery shopping, eat at Panda Express since we haven't been this week yet! Haha

5. Two things that don't go together are me and snorkeling/fish!

6. Something I can never pass up at the grocery store is ...nothing really. I always have a list and usually just stick to the list.

7. The last time I tried something new was Wednesday when we went out for Kory's birthday, I tried the new Dr Pepper glazed short rib sandwich at Famous Dave's.

Austria

2010-10-07T10:44:00.000-06:00

October 5, 2007
We're in Austria now! We had a long bus ride today, but the scenery was gorgeous! We drove through the Alps, the grass was green, the leaves on the trees were changing colors and there was snow on the tops of the mountains!

We’re staying at a Youth Hostel tonight. HAHA It is crazy! There’s EIGHT girls in a room and the rooms are the size of a closet! It’s a joke. There’s four bunk beds per room, but literally no walking room because of everyone’s suitcases. We’re waiting in line tonight to (finally) do laundry.

October 6, 2007

It is FREEZING! And we were outside pretty much all day. This morning we drove up to Eagle’s Nest (Kehlsteinhaus...Hitler’s house.) We would have seen an amazing view, except the fog/clouds were really thick. It was still really cool to be at the top of this huge mountain, surrounded by clouds. The house is now a restaurant so you can’t really explore the interior.

Today we also went to a little park that has the gazebo used in the ‘Sound of Music’. It looks much bigger in the movie.

Another funny story: Adria got electrocuted!! At some of our previous hotels we had to insert our room key into a slot in order for the lights to turn on. So we get to the hostel and Adria flips on the switch, but the light doesn’t turn on. There was an outlet right next to the switch so she sticks her key in it...the OUTLET! Oh, Europe!

October 7, 2007
We woke up super early so we could get to this cathedral for a mass that started at 8 AM. Except when we got there we learned it didn’t start until 9 AM. So we sat and waited and it was cold! I was excited to experience a mass but I guess I kind of forgot that it was going to be in a different language.

We went to McDonald's for dinner. It was pretty good, except they didn't have mustard or ranch...

Venice

2010-10-04T15:20:00.000-06:00

October 4, 2007
Venice is AMAZING and I want a boat!!

More Study Abroad

2010-10-02T07:19:00.000-06:00

October 2, 2007
We got to sleep in today!!! It was a pretty relaxing day. We went to the Accademia Gallery first which is where Michelangelo’s ‘David’ is, along with some of his unfinished sculptures. There was also an exhibit of old musical instruments which was interesting.

Next, we went to a bridge overlooking the city. The water under the bridge was super gross and I thought the view OF the bridge was better than the view FROM the bridge.

After that we went to the Uffizzi Museum. It is huge! (35 rooms) I didn’t think some of the paintings were very pleasing to the eye, but I guess it was the style back then. The Uffizzi is most famous for Botticelli’s paintings - ‘Primavera’ and ‘Birth of Venus.’ But if you read the history, etc. behind some of the other paintings they’re interesting also.

We went to the baptistry next to the Duomo where the Doors of Paradise are. They’re not the original doors, but still, they depict scenes from the Old Testament.

(Duomo)
For the rest of the day we just had free time so everyone went shopping at the Flea Market. I bought nothing. It was fun to walk around and see everything though. We got kababs for dinner...lamb’s meat! Ahh! I didn’t know it was lambs meat until after I ate it, but it was good?!

**Let the record show I bought a converter so my blow dryer and straightener would work in Europe...neither of them did! That hat (pictured above) was basically a life-saver! It will be making several more appearances.

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-10-01T15:53:00.000-06:00

OK the questions this week are hard so I apologize if some of the answers are lame...

1. True happiness is experienced (sometimes) when you are with close friends and family. I say sometimes because I don't think you feel true happiness EVERY time you are with loved ones, but I also don't think it is possible to feel it when you are NOT with them. Make sense??

2. The most surreal moment of my life was getting off the plane in Rome (for my study abroad). The way I was able to even go on that adventure came about so fast that it never had time to sink in that I was going...to a different country...actually EIGHT countries...with 50 people that I didn't know...for a MONTH! And then...Bam! I was already there!

3. My favorite texture is Egyptian Cotton sheets (aka my bed!)

4. My signature color is ... Well I don't think I really own/wear more of one particular color. Personally, I think I look the best in blues because it brings out my eyes.

5. My signature style is "Arizona girl" (yes, I just made that up) but I pretty much still dress like I live in Arizona. Flip flops on cold days, no jacket when it's snowing, etc. It drives Kory (and my mom when she's here) crazy!

6. If I could choose one store to spend my life savings at, it would be Target. Seriously, love that store!

7. My best thing about autumn is that it's not winter! Haha No, but I do love to see the leaves change colors and the smell of "fall scented" candles!

(Questions originate from here.)

Vatican, Pisa, Florence

2010-09-30T09:53:00.000-06:00

September 30, 2007
Today was so great! We walked to the Vatican Museums/Sistine Chapel this morning. There were tons of people there and it took us an hour and 1/2 just to get in. But it was neat to have to experience of seeing the Pieta and Michelangelo’s painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

Then we had free time for the rest of the day. We found more Italian pizza and it was GOOD this time! We also got some gelato (mango and strawberry)!

We basically just wandered, trying to find a park (NOT easy to find in Rome). But we did find a grassy area that was out of the touristy/super busy part of the city. Then we came across a flea market. Mitch tried on a ring and it got stuck on his finger! We tried to get it off for several minutes, but finally the street vendor helped us out with some soap and water! (Yeah, we are those "stupid Americans!" Haha)

We had sandwiches for dinner and found a yummy pastry shop too! I got a croissant looking pastry filled with nutella. (How embarrassing - half of this entry is about FOOD.)

We had sacrament meeting with the group at the convent.

October 1, 2007
Today we had more croissants for breakfast and then checked out. We had a 5 hour drive to Pisa - I slept most of the way. So then we saw the Leaning Tower. It was pretty cool and I think everyone got some fun pictures. Christine got separated from the group, so we got a little off schedule...and a lecture. But we made it to Florence.

First we went to Michelangelo’s Hill which has a fabulous view of all of Florence. Then our bus driver, Peder, took us to an area near our hotel. It was crazy! He dropped us off in the middle of a busy street. We had to walk like 30 minutes to our hotel. (The bus couldn’t drop us off any closer because of the width of some of the streets in Italy, buses just don’t fit.)

Luckily there is an elevator in this hotel cause I am on the top floor again. There are four of us in our room - me, Hilary, Adria and Holly. It’s a nice room, small beds, but WARM shower!! Tonight we walked to the Duomo and had more pizza for dinner.

Another [Kory] Update

2010-09-28T11:47:00.000-06:00

**Note to self: Be careful when gutting a deer!**
Yes, Kory was helping gut his dad's deer when his knife got away from him. These pictures are from the hospital about 8 hours after the incident. Thankfully his dad (a paramedic) helped him get the bleeding to stop and cleaned it up before I had to see it. Me and blood/hospitals/etc. don't go well together.

(Six stitches later...)
When Kory tells the story he will inform you that cutting himself "wasn't even the worst part of the day." He shot at and missed (because the deer was in trees/brush) "the biggest buck I have ever seen" on his way back to camp that afternoon. Better luck next time, babe!

When in Rome

2010-09-28T09:28:00.000-06:00

September 28, 2007
I haven’t slept in a bed since I last wrote, so it’s obviously been a long day...or two?!? But we made it to ROME after a 10 hour flight. It took like 45 minutes for our luggage to appear on the carousel...I have no idea why it took so long, but nobody’s luggage got lost - Thank goodness!! (Losing luggage is always a big fear of mine when I travel!)

After we got our luggage we got on a bus to go to our convent for the night...yes we’re staying in a convent, nuns checked us in. The beds are super small and the window doesn’t shut all the way (traffic is super noisy). Good thing everyone is pretty much exhausted and will probably sleep well regardless.

After we checked into our convent we walked to the Forum/Ruins. We also got to see Titus’ Arch. Then we went to a church where we saw St. Peter in Chains and Michelangelo’s Moses.

Later we went to the Colosseum, which is HUGE - if you think about when/how it was built, it’s amazing!

For dinner we got authentic Italian pizza...which was gross if you ask me. “American” pizza is so much better. But we also got some gelatto which was super good. We ate by the Trevi Fountain and walked past the Pantheon on our way back to the convent.

September 29, 2007
Today was a very long walking day. I have blisters and extremely sore feet. (Why isn't the sticky part of a band-aid as durable as duct tape??) It was a really good day though. We went to Michelangelo’s Astronomy Church, the Sacred Steps, St. John’s Lateran, Spanish Steps, Galleria Borghese and Santa Maria Del Popolo.

The Sacred Steps were moved to Rome. These are the steps Christ walked up the night he was tried and crucified. Lots of people come to this church to worship/repent. They will crawl up the steps on their hands and knees. I loved the statue at the bottom of the steps of Judas kissing Christ to betray him.

3 Years Ago...

2010-09-27T08:10:00.000-06:00

Three years ago today I was flying to EUROPE for a month long study abroad! Oh how I would love to do it all again (with my sister and Kory)! Every year around this time I pull out the journal I kept while I was there and get all nostalgic. Since I didn't have my blog back then most of you haven't heard about this amazing experience in my life, so I figured as I go through my journal over the next few weeks I will share some of the stories, pictures, etc. with you. It will get random but should be pretty entertaining...

September 27th, 2007
Sitting in the Atlanta airport waiting for our flight to ROME! Can't believe I am actually going. Enjoyed some Panda Express during our layover.
Funny story....This morning Bree was bragging about her “amazing suitcase,” that has all these pockets, can fit tons of stuff, is light weight, etc. etc. Two seconds after she finished telling us this, when she goes to roll it, she pulls up on the handle and it completely comes off! So there she is holding JUST the handle and her “amazing suitcase” is laying on the ground. It was classic. (Maybe you had to be there??!)

A [Kory] Update

2010-09-25T08:09:00.000-06:00

I realized that I haven't mentioned Kory recently so this update is about him.
Most of the time Kory is WORKING. He works hard and he works a lot. It makes me tired. But don't worry, he has found quite a bit of time to play this summer also...
When he is not working he is golfing, fishing, watching football, hunting...you get the point. Typical man, right?!

(Picture from when we went miniature golfing this summer, right after he hit a hole in one.)
He had a golf tournament last weekend for all the county employees. His team took 3rd place and even got a trophy! (What are we going to do with that? Haha)
In August he went with his dad, brother and friend on a fishing trip. Unfortunately the lake they planned to go to in Yellowstone was closed "due to bear activity." So they had to settle on a different lake that none of them had been to before. Long story short, they came home early without many fish, all of their packs (and phones and cameras) SOAKING wet.

We had a fun party for the first Boise State game of the season when Boise beat Virgina Tech. Tonight should be another good game and Kory is excited to actually go to Boise for a game later this season.

(Note the Boise State shirt! He has SIX so he's wearing one more often than not.)
Kory's work schedule didn't work out very good for hunting this year, but he is headed out bow hunting right after work (and maybe the Boise game) tonight. Let's hope he will be successful in the three days he has. If not...never fear...there's always rifle season in October!

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-09-24T13:53:00.000-06:00

(Questions found on this blog.)

1. In the story of my life the actor who would play me would be Kate Hudson or Rachel McAdams.

2. If I could change one thing about the world it would be for Idaho to have warmer winters.

3. Yesterday Grey's Anatomy premiered, good day!!

4. My favorite comfort food is I find MOST food comforting.

5. My new favorite blog find is I recently found The Meanest Mom's blog. It always makes me laugh!

6. If I could meet any blog friend (who I haven't met yet) in real life, I'd choose to meet Not sure. I'd rather be able see the blog friends that I have met more often.

7. My favorite breakfast food is I've been on a scrambled egg kick lately. Homemade cinnamon rolls usually hit the spot too!

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-09-23T08:04:00.000-06:00

Fresh vacuum lines on the carpet!

(No this is not my carpet.)

Every time I vacuum (which is often) Kory laughs and reminds me that I have an addiction. But hey, there are worse addictions...right?!!

Visitor's Welcome

2010-09-21T13:42:00.000-06:00

Still deciding if this is even better than having a Panda Express in Idaho Falls...

At a news conference Tuesday, Allegiant announced new, nonstop jet service between Idaho Falls and Phoenix-Mesa.

This service will start on November 12, 2010.

The new flights will operate twice weekly between the Idaho Falls Regional Airport and Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport with service Monday and Friday.

Flights will depart Idaho Falls at 12pm arriving in Phoenix-Mesa at 2pm Flights leaving Phoenix-Mesa will depart at 9:20am arriving in Idaho Falls at 11:20am.

Come visit us!

Fill in the blank Friday

2010-09-17T12:19:00.000-06:00

My blog posts have been lacking lately, so I've gone to others to find inspiration. I recently found this blog and I decided to participate in her Fill in the blank Friday...

1. When I get a day to myself I like to... sleep in, mop my floor and catch up on my shows in the DVR.

2. High school was.... just high school. It was fun while it lasted. Junior year was probably the best and my favorite class was Mrs. Ries AP Government (or History, I forgot!) .

3. A little dream I have is... Learn how to golf without Kory knowing so the first time I agree to go play with him I can beat him.

4. A big dream I have is... To open a reception hall/center in Idaho Falls. There a very limited options in this area to have your wedding reception. I have thought about this quite a bit and am always checking out buildings for sale around town. There are a few buildings that have great exterior potential and good locations (but parking probably not enough parking). I absolutely love "planning" so I think I might enjoy running a place like this. **Remember this is a BIG dream here!**

5. If I could drive any car my pick would be... Hmm, I am not really a car person. I'm pretty content with my car so maybe eventually just an upgrade of what I have?!

6. A time that I felt really and truly beautiful was... Luckily it was when we had family pictures taken a few months ago. I was having a good (long) hair day, I had a decent tan from camping/being out on the lake the weekend before and my face was clear.

7. Tomorrow I will.... be sleeping in, then treating myself to a pedi/mani (with a gift card/birthday present) while Kory is golfing.

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-09-16T11:18:00.000-06:00

Let's be honest...all of my happy thoughts could be about food! Today's is gelato! If you are privileged enough to live somewhere that has a gelato shop, go enjoy some for me today! (Might I suggest the mango, strawberry or kiwi!)

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-09-02T14:57:00.000-06:00

Yes, I have been MIA for the past few Thursdays...but I'm here today.
Well actually, today's happy thought is brought to you by Kory.

Let football season begin!

Vanilla (fill-in-the-blank) Ice Cream

2010-08-24T11:32:00.000-06:00

I went to the store the other day just to buy the ingredients for root beer floats. Simple enough, right?
Wrong.
Do you know how many different types of vanilla ice cream there are out there??
French vanilla, vanilla bean, natural vanilla, original vanilla, double vanilla, slow churned vanilla, (just) vanilla, homemade vanilla, extra creamy vanilla...
I was tempted to buy one of each and do a taste test. I mean is there a distinct difference between all of these flavors?
After pacing the ice cream aisle for several minutes, slightly confused, I settled on french vanilla.
I decided there should really be a "Perfect for Root Beer Floats" Vanilla.

Lake Trip

2010-08-17T14:23:00.000-06:00

Kory hasn't been wake boarding since before we got married, so when we were invited to go out on Reed's boat yesterday we were excited! We are lucky to have awesome friends and loved hanging out with a few of them last night! It was a nice afternoon when we left, but watch the sky change in these pictures... A couple people got to wake board before we had to wait on the shore for the storm to blow over, then we had just enough daylight for everyone else to wake board before leaving.

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-08-12T09:41:00.000-06:00

Pedicures.

Need I say more?

Wanna See??

2010-08-09T20:34:00.001-06:00

Remember when we went to Utah and took pictures with the Sibbett family?
Well HERE'S a preview!
Yes, our darling niece and nephews make us slightly baby hungry.
Yes, I let Kory wear his hat for a few pictures. I'm way nicer than his mom ;) Kidding!

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-08-05T08:32:00.000-06:00

(Right after we got engaged...in the mall parking lot.)
In honor of a certain anniversary (our engagement day) coming up on Sunday, today's happy thought is my wedding ring! It is definitely one of my most prized possessions. I'll admit that I've had ring envy over a few of my friend's rings but after a while the envy completely fades and I fall in love with my ring all over again! Kory picked it out all by himself and it is perfect.
(Pictures do not do it justice.)

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2010-07-31T18:27:00.000-06:00

This post is mostly for my mom because she has been asking how our garden is looking. But if you're in the area you might want to start caring too...we'll share!
**Click to enlarge the pictures**
(Top left: peas, below that: onions and then lots of corn! Ignore the weeds. I assure you, they have since been pulled.)

Not sure if from this angle the plants actually look taller?!

(The mound on the left is butternut squash and the mound to the right is zucchini...not sure how well those are actually coming along but we're still pulling for them! Inside that bluish tube we are growing jalapenos and down from that is our tomato plant.)

What I'm even more excited about...WE HAVE A PEACH! I know it's just one and it is green still, but hey, we only planted the tree a few months ago (plus, we got some pessimistic comments about trying to grow a peach tree).

We have a few apples growing as well, but that's not as exciting! Ha Ha
No apricots yet.

Happy Thought Thursday

2010-07-29T09:16:00.000-06:00

Chocolate chips...more specifically chocolate chips straight from the freezer! Kory thinks they are too hard when they're frozen but I say "Mmmm". (Maybe it's an Arizona thing...everything tastes better when it's cold!? Haha) If you know me well enough, you know that I have a major sweet tooth. My mom taught me to keep a bag of chocolate chips in the freezer for my weak moments!

And if you're really needing a spoonful of sugar might I recommend topping a spoonful a peanut butter with a few of those babies!!