Onward to Oregon!

Let me just state for the record I have no idea how to use this thing. I don't know how to "become a follower," I don't know how to set it up so it looks nice, I don't know anything at all. I already keep a journal online and feel like I can't be bothered to try and learn to navigate a new site.

But, I'm getting really excited for our Oregon Christmas and I thought I'd share why.

Reasons I Can't Wait to go to Oregon

-I get to see my family who I never really see anymore.
-I get to see my sister who I have not seen in one whole year.
-It's prettier than Utah. Sorry, but it's true.
-The trees.
-Can't wait to fly over Portland and see all the water, boats, and forests.
-The smell. I love that wet tree smell in the early morning in Oregon.
-I get to meet my cousin's baby.
-I get to see said cousin and his awesome wife and hopefully do a double date like last year when we went to a Winterhawks game and out to dinner.
-Annual trip to Sleighbells for the tree hunt and then the grunt and toil of getting it cut down and carried down the big hill. Seeing Santa and the free hot chocolate and the ornament shop.
-We'll get to see Heidi and Deric and MEET THEIR BABY!!! I can't wait.
-The Portland Temple. I'm excited to do sealings there and think about our sealing.
-My family is moving, so I'm excited to enjoy one last Christmas in that house.
-Downtown Portland. Oh how I miss the vibe of Portland. I just want to walk around in that city and be happy just to be there.







Oh Portland, how I love thee.

Thanksgiving

Every year at Thanksgiving I try to write what I am thankful for, corresponding to my age. I am 25, so here it is.

I'm thankful for...

1. The temple.
2. My job - how it teaches me, increases my patience, increases my love.
3. A wonderful ward.
4. My parents.
5. Missionary opportunities and my calling.
6. My sweet husband - specifically for his love and patience and how he supports me and encourages me.
7. Insurance.
8. When the alarm goes off early and we sacrifice "getting ready" time to have the cuddles.
9. Preschoolers - how they make me laugh, brighten my world, make me love even more, and help me rediscover the magic of colors, words, shapes, and worms.
10. Cosby Show for making me laugh and being wholesome.
11. Sales ads - allowing me to grocery shop in a way that is better for my family.
12. Literature.
13. Scriptures - the opportunity lately to read the New Testament and learn more of Christ.
14. The priesthood, and the way my husband honors his.
15. Paul Cardall - his music casts peace over my home.
16. Our anniversary trip and all the memories it provides.
17. Medical advancements.
18. A Heavenly Father who listens, who knows my needs when I don't.
19. Nail polish.
20. The Sacrament.
21. Personal revelation and free agency.
22. Ryan's job and benefits.
23. General Conference.
24. James Talmage and Jesus the Christ.
25. Weekly date night.


I am thankful.

May I?

What a month this has been! Ryan graduated from SUU. We went on our anniversary trip (a little early) which was a lovely 7-night cruise along the Mexican Riviera. We went to Cabo, Mazatlan, and Puerto Vallarta. We went parasailing (tandem, of course, so we could smooch and hold hands) and I conquered a crippling fear of heights. We kayaked on the ocean and went snorkeling. In California, we went to Los Angeles/Venice Beach and played with my best friend/maid of honor, JuJu. Ryan turned 24 and we celebrated one night just us at the resort in Brian Head, and the next night with friends. We did what Ryan wanted: had dinner at Chili's and saw Iron Man 2. Elena and Noah had birthdays. Ryan's twin had a birthday, too. ;-) Mothers Day occurred. Our only niece, Mia, turned one and we went to Sandy for her first birthday party - a big event including a bounce house! I finally received benefits (medical and dental) at work. AND Ryan got the job he REALLY wanted, so we will be moving in July either to the Salt Lake area or to Utah County. It's very exciting because right out of college he was able to get a job that fits in his career path and that he will absolutely love. I'm so proud of him. He also made all As and the Dean's List in his last semester of college. :-)

And the month is not even over yet!



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