chad and elizabeth moore

I can't help it!

2011-09-01T23:28:00.000-07:00

dearblankpleaseblank.com

Dear ABC Family,

I don't think sex, violence, drugs, and lying are really "family" friendly.

Sincerely, change your name.

Dear people of the world,

Does anyone know where I can get a hippo?

Sincerely, allowed to have any animal in my dorm that can stay under water for over 15 minutes.

Dear conspiracy theorist,

But what if they just WANT you to think it's a conspiracy?

Sincerely, conspiracy conspiracy theorist.

Dear assigned reading,

I'll take it from here.

Sincerely, Sparknotes.

(Also, remember Monkey Notes? Sparknotes saved my life come Shakespeare time in 10th grade!)

Dear over weight man running,

GO YOU!

Sincerely, at least you're trying.

(I hope this is what people are thinking when they pass me running!)

Dear Restaurant,

You have automatic toilets, automatic soap dispensers, automatic faucets, and automatic hand dryers. The least you could do is make your doors push and not pull.

Sincerely, germaphobe.

Dear baking soda,

How is it that you're good for baking AND cleaning toilet bowls?

Sincerely, worried.

Dear person who overheard my conversation,

I was talking about bunk beds.

Sincerely, I like to be on top...

Dear girls,

If you have to question whether or not it's a shirt or a dress... it's probably a shirt.

Sincerely, please, just play it safe.

Dear little brother,

No no, "condo" is short for condominium.

Sincerely, we do not live in a condom.

Dear Disney,

So let me get this straight, you went from Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Lion King and Tarzan, to..... High School Musical, Hannah Montana and Camp Rock?

Sincerely, WTH happened?!

(So true... not that I don't love High School Musical, Hannah Montana, and Camp Rock!)

Dear life,

When you give me dilemmas, I make dilemmanade.

Sincerely, nice try.

Dear food on the ground,

1... 2... 3... 4... 5... GO!

Sincerely, germs.

Dear Gatorade commercials,

You won't need special effects with me. I naturally sweat rainbows.

Sincerely, Chuck Norris.

Dear millionaires,

If you dont have trampoline floors and a giant slide that goes from your bed to a pool, you are wasting your money.

Sincerely, I'd have so much fun.

Dear "an apple a day keeps the doctor away",

Screw you.

Sincerely, Snow White.

Dear men and women of the armed forces,

Please realize that while not all of us support war, we still support you.

Sincerely, thank you.

(I am not saying that I do or don't support the war... I believe it is often an unpleasant necessity but I thought this was a great sentiment.)

girl's just want to have fun

2011-09-01T12:07:00.000-07:00

Carol hosted our August Girl's Night and we had a blast! Isn't it great how the most fun you can have is just hanging out with your besties? We started the night off with some Pizza Hut deliciousness and some Hershey's and Reese's pies! Yum! For our activity this month we were inspired by our new obsession... Pinterest! For all you Pinterest lovers out there, you know all the cute hairstyles we all pin all the time? We got together and tried new fun "do's"! Some of them were dont's because their difficulty level was a little higher than our experience but we left with;

Debbie's hair looking gorgeous from a cute double-french braid-half up/half down-wavy ends hair style that Kasey mostly did:

Carol also had a cute sideways in the back braid inspired by:

Kasey gave me a Utah pouf (only the cute kind with enough volume to look cute but sans any rats nest or square head).

Kasey had a cute twist/fishtail braid do that Debbie gave her which looked super cute! I believe it was inspired by this:

We also played photographer to get a few cute preggo pics of Mrs. Caroly who will be having a cute baby boy so soon it doesn't even seem real! Here are my artsy tries at maternity pics (please note I am not a photographer and my fancy equipment includes my point and shooter):

Where Did the Summer Go?

2011-08-29T11:52:00.000-07:00

Chad is at school right now. It is his first day of classes for the fall semester and I can't believe our summer has ended. We have been blessed to have had a great summer filled with so many memories and awesome experiences! I am not looking forward to loosing my husband (or so it will seem for the next however many months) since Chad will be working full-time AND taking 16 credits in school. How blessed am I with such a hard working husband? I am so thankful for his hard work especially when I realize he is doing it to bless us and our future family. Did I mention he is holding like a 3.8 GPA all the while? Amazing I tell you... not to mention he is a cutie too!

The up-side of the fall schedule starting is that our life will be more normal. It is crazy to think that I can get to a point where I crave some regularity in my day-to-day life. I am excited to get organized (I am talking literally organizing my house... I am probably half way through going through everything and organizing and tossing what we never use... feels good to simplify!) and I am excited to have more time to work on the things I need to be busy with.

For any of you who don't already know, I now own my own business called Letter Lace. I am your one-stop source for all things announcements! Baby, graduation, wedding, holiday, special events... you name it. I have been official since the beginning of summer but with everything we have been up to I haven't advertised or gotten my website up and running. Everything I have done so far has been word of mouth, which is great, but I am excited to have more time to devote to building my business and being a bigger helper with our monthly income. This is an exciting and daunting task all at the same time.

To kind of celebrate (or not...) back to school time we invited our friends Debbie and Eric over for a little BBQ yesterday evening. We usually invite more over but since they have been nice enough to share so many yummy things from their garden lately we thought we would invite them to share with them the yummy ways we have been enjoying some of the goodies along with a few other things we could enjoy. Chad grilled us some bratwurst and italian sausage burgers (Johnsonville just came out with burger patties made out of their bratwurst and italian sausage meat and let me tell you... delish!) along with some yellow squash, zucchini and honey & balsamic carrots. The squash and zucchini were both from Debbie's garden and I coated them with olive oil and italian breadcrumbs before Chad tossed them on the grill... my new favorite way to eat them by far! The carrots were from Chad's parents garden and we steamed them a bit before Chad threw them on the grill and brushed on a mixture of honey mixed with balsamic vinegar... one of our new favorites of the summer. Debbie and Eric brought dessert which was amazing. Chocolate zucchini cake with walnuts and chocolate chips. I went back for a healthy (or unhealthy I suppose) helping of seconds for the cake. So moist! Perfect topped with cool whip.

We will still enjoy ourselves with special occasions from time to time but for now we will have to get used to a simpler life for awhile. Whenever we get burnt out we will have to think back to our busy summer and be thankful for the blessings of all our activities.

"Successful marriages and families are established and maintained on principles of faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work and wholesome recreational activities." -The Family: A Proclamation to the World

oh, kAle No!

2011-08-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

Oh Kale... I started my day with gagging down a kale shot! Kale is very nutritional... as you can see down below by what I stole from Wikipedia. The only problem with Kale is that it tastes disgusting. Also, if mixed with other juices it tends to completely overpower everything. That's where the idea for the Kale shot came into play. That way we get the nutrients but who said we have to savor when it isn't the good stuff? To help chase any Kale taste still remaining I made another juice to be yummier! It had spinach, granny apple, and grapes. It was delicious! Obviously fruit juices are yummy almost always however the better nutrients are in the veggies so I am trying to mix some of each to balance taste vs. nutrition.

Nutritional value: Kale is considered by nutritionists including Dr Joel Furhman to be the most nutritious vegetable in the world with extremely powerful antioxidant properties; kale is considered^[^{by whom?}^] to be anti-inflammatory.

Kale is very high in beta carotene, vitamin K, vitamin C, lutein, zeaxanthin, and reasonably rich in calcium. Kale, as with broccoli and other brassicas, contains sulforaphane (particularly when chopped or minced), a chemical believed to have potent anti-cancer properties.^[^{citation needed}^] Boiling decreases the level of sulforaphane; however, steaming, microwaving, or stir frying do not result in significant loss.^[2] Along with other brassica vegetables, kale is also a source of indole-3-carbinol, a chemical which boosts DNA repair in cells and appears to block the growth of cancer cells.^[3][4] Kale is also a good source of carotenoids.^[5]

Juicy

2011-08-26T21:49:00.000-07:00

Not Couture.

Have you watched Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead yet? If not, watch it! It is on instant view on Netflix.

A little over a month ago I watched the documentary on a whim during one of my nights of insomnia. (A teeny overview... seriously though... watch it: A rich Australian man is over-weight and has an immune disease. To make a drastic change he comes for a long visit here to the States and decides to go on an all juice fast for 60-days. He is closely supervised by doctors and they tell you all the wonderful reasons why juicing is more nutritional than eating fruits and veggies whole. Basically you gets all the nutrients a lot easier and faster because you would have to eat a butt-load of stuff to be able to eat as much nutrients as you can get just from the juice of fruits and veggies. Think of it as a salad espresso shot.) They day after watching it, before mentioning anything about it at all, my mom called to tell me I should watch it. It had an impact on all of us. Even if you aren't totally intrigued to toss all your processed food and start sipping all of your meals, this documentary still is a great way to make you think about what you are eating without making you feel like crap like I did after watching Super-Size Me.

My parents went out an bought a juicer right away. They have been juicing quite a bit for the last month. I also have a friend who finished a 30-day total juice fast and LOVED it.

Today I finally got a juicer !

It isn't the fancy Breville that my parents and Summer got but it was $89.00 at Costco and it seems to work great so far. If anything happens to it Costco is pretty awesome at returning anything... whenever. I figure if Jack LaLanne and his juicer can be one of the top infomercials for so long, it has to work decent, right?!?!

We've had the juicer for about 5 hours or so now and I've already made 3 juices. Now Chad isn't a super picky eater but you should have seen his face after the kale+spinach+parsley+cilantro+serrano pepper juice I first made. Priceless! Our new motto? "If You Don't Love It, Chug It!" Later we made carrot juice and then granny smith apple juice. Both of the latter were seriously delicious. The first was... healthy! At this point I am not committing to a full juice fast quite yet but I am committing to two juice meals a day and watching what I eat for dinner. Wish me luck!

P.S. Juice Rocks! Have you seen the film? Would you ever consider a juice fast or do you think we are all crazy? :)

What We Ate Tonight

2011-08-23T19:00:00.000-07:00

I like to try new recipes from time to time and I like to brag to my family and friends when things turn out tasting delisioso! The only problem is... they ask for the recipe and I never remember to pass it on to them! Well duh! Why don't I share the tried, tested, and tasty right here?

I am not turning this into a food blog, and I am not turning myself into a foodie. These recipes are stolen from all over the web and I will try to remember to give credit where credit is deserved.

Recipe Stolen From: http://elizabethbryant.blogspot.com/2010/05/korean-beef.html

"1 pound lean ground beef
1/4 - 1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 Tablespoon sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
1/2 - 1 teaspoon crushed red peppers (to desired spiciness)
salt and pepper
1 bunch green onions, diced (don't skip this!)

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown hamburger with garlic in the sesame oil. Drain most of the fat and add brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, salt and pepper and red peppers. Simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Serve over steamed rice and top with green onions."

This was quick and easy (just know that statement is coming from someone who doesn't like to make Rice-a-roni because too many steps are involved... brown the rice? Really?)! I had this ready when Chad came home for dinner from work and lets just say it smells great! I think I got mad brownie points for Chad smelling dinner ready before I even said a word! I served ours over Jasmine rice because it is the bomb!

A special thanks and a shout out goes to Debbie for the side-dish tonight. I sauteed some eggplant that she shared from her garden! I don't know how I made them look like soggy pickles but they tasted awesome! Lately we have also been enjoying zucchini she shared with us as well. I am not exagerating when I say it was the biggest zucchini I've ever seen in my life... I would say 5-inches thick and maybe 18inches to 2 feet long! I have been slicing it up and throwing it on the grill... yum yum yum! I think I still have enough to try my go at zucchini bread for the first time... wish me luck!

dearblankpleaseblank.com

2011-08-23T01:22:00.000-07:00

Dear teens,

It's "before," not "b4."

Sincerely, this is your homework, not bingo.

Dear people behind me,

I promise the line hasn't moved. Stop getting closer.

Sincerely, personal space issues.

Dear Concerned Parents,

Why was I home late? Oh, you know, the usual... landing in jail, running across railroads, and spending hundreds of dollars.

Sincerely, seriously though, monopoly is a really long game.

Dear girls who say they love nerds,

There is a HUGE difference between nerds and hot guys who wear glasses.

Sincerely, an actual nerd.

Dear people complaining about not having flying cars,

You can barely drive your car on the ground.

Sincerely, the curb you just checked.

Dear 12 year old girl who just asked me who NSYNC was,

My heart just broke a little bit.

Sincerely, you're making me feel old.

Dear ladies,

There is no such things as automatic doors... just gentlemen ninjas.

Sincerely, anonymous.

Dear Google Earth,

Thank you for making me feel like a God.

Sincerely, spinning the earth the other way.

Dear Schoolhouse Rock,

Please make educational songs for college students as well.

Sincerely, think about it.

Dear dictionaries,

You've done a great job but I'll take it from here...

Sincerely, Google.

Dear homeless guy shaking a can full of money,

Show off...

Sincerely, college student.

Dear white people using chopsticks,

It doesn't make the experience more authentic...

Sincerely, Asian using a fork.

Dear iTunes,

Current Balance: $0.01.

Sincerely, now what?

P.S. You're welcome!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2010-12-16T13:18:00.000-08:00

There is a lot of working and schooling around here but we are still doing our share of holiday celebrating! We've decorated and we've been enjoying Christmas cookies and treats way too often. I've been enjoying Egg Nog (Chad's opted out). Last Sunday we went up to Temple Square with Misty, Nate and the boys which was super busy but gorgeous! Sorry but the battery in my camera were dead :( I hope you all are enjoying the most wonderful time of the year!

Something New

2010-10-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

Hair Cut- What do you think?
(I only want to know if you like it... if not, you can keep it to yourself)

I cut my hair a few days ago. I've been thinking about it for awhile now but I chickened out awhile back since my hair had been getting pretty long. Then one morning a few days ago I woke up and knew I wouldn't stop thinking about it until I did it. I went before work and liked what I saw. Its fun getting compliments from co-workers noticing the new 'do' and I was excited/anxious to see what Chad thought since I didn't warn him about the 6-inches of hair I'd lost that day. All my excitement of the new look crashed for a bit when a silly girl I work with (if I was into using bad words I might call her one) asked me all rude like, "who cute your hair?" I told her where I went and then she replied, "Oh... I was just wondering who did such a crappy crooked job." Awesome. Thanks.

Luckily Chad liked the cut as well as my idea to color it darker. I kept forgetting/was being to lazy to go get dye for a few days but last night Chad went with me to pick out a color and today I braved the task of at-home hair color. I know its probably way better to get it done but guess what... I'm a cheapo and I think my $4 box color job looks just fine!

I'd be lying if I said my hair didn't turn out a little darker than I planned but guess what... I love it!

(sorry for the harsh tone you may or may not have heard while reading this post. moral of the story... don't express your opinion if it isn't a nice one, especially when it is to a random co-worker that you really don't know that well.)

O-Town

2010-10-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

After being productive in Lakeland we headed to Orlando for the majority of our vacay. First stop- Celebration and lunch at the Colombia. Yum. Then we headed over to see our hotel.

(ok... this isn't our hotel but it is an awesome decorated house in Celebration. All the houses were ready for Halloween to the max!)

This was our hotel:

We had to take a dip in this pool before heading to dinner.

We stayed at a Marriott- Residence Inn in Lake Buena Vista right outside of Disney and guess what... it was awesome! Highly recommended for anyone going to Disney. My parents got an awesome deal on a 2-bedroom suite and it was well worth it. The beds were the most comfortable I've ever had in a hotel and it was really cute.

Then we headed to Carraba's for dinner and my old roommate Meagan joined us! It was awesome to see her even if it wasn't for very long.

This was a fun day but we better go to sleep before it gets too late. Tomorrow will be a fun yet tiring day!

Lakeland

2010-10-13T11:31:00.000-07:00

On our first whole day in Florida we had some work to do.

This was my grandpa's house. It has been sitting for awhile and before we could head out to play for this vacation we had a little work to do! We just went to the house and had a few companies come give estimates on a few fix-er-upper things around the house. We had a little excitement when we found someone had stolen the AC Unit outside! Oma met up with us and we went to see Monette, Oma's good friend who I hadn't seen since I was little. After a few hours around the house and around town we were ready to head to Orlando!

Flo Rida Arrival Night

2010-10-12T22:41:00.000-07:00

Arrival Night

Tuesday, October 12th we met up the Prine side late late at night in the Orlando Airport. Our flights got in around 10:30 pm and we were tired but excited for our Florida vacation to begin! The last time Chad and I had been to Florida was April 2009 (and that trip doesn't really count because all we did then was load up the moving truck, say goodbye for now to some good friends at the Ashcroft's and sleep before leaving to drive the moving truck to Pittsburgh), before that it was our wedding reception in January 2009. This trip was long overdue!

After getting our luggage and thankfully upgrading to a bigger rental car (Chad and I packed really light... my family made up for it :)) we were on our way to stay our first night in Lakeland. The last stop before checking-in and crawling into bed? Steak 'n Shake of course! Luckily there was one right across the street from the La Quinta where we were staying. We ended up getting to bed around 2 am I think? I don't know but I didn't sleep very well that night mainly due to my excitement for being in Florida, and maybe it didn't help that I'm not real used to my dad's snoring anymore (love you dad!).

MmmBop

2010-09-30T22:02:00.000-07:00

If you know me, then you most defiantly know my love for a certain band called Hanson. They FINALLY came to Salt Lake and of course... I had to see them! Chad surprised me when he had already purchased tickets before I ever had to beg. Chad is such a good sport... this was his second Hanson concert so far (it was my 8th or 9th... I've lost count!). My friend and old roommate Jenica came along and it was awesome to share the night with a fellow Hanson fan, especially one who hadn't had the privilege of seeing them live until now.

Here is a taste of the awesomeness that is Hanson:

Say Hi to New York for Me!

2010-09-21T21:50:00.000-07:00

I was able to hang out with my awesome friend Alyssa the day before her going into the MTC on September 22. Alyssa is preparing to go to the New York, New York North spanish speaking mission. She is going to be the coolest/cutest Sister Missionary New York has ever seen!

We had a blast hanging out at the Gateway in Salt Lake before heading over to do a session at the Salt Lake Temple. The Temple is GORGEOUS! After the Temple we headed over to Buca Di Beppo for an awesome last dinner before Alyssa went away for the next 18 months. Dinner was delicious and I love spending time with Alyssa and her always awesome family!

Love you Alyssa! I'm so proud of you!

24 is the new 23.

2010-09-06T14:11:00.000-07:00

As you know, birthday's are a big deal to me! Chad is always the trouper and never fails to step up to the occasion and make my birthday the best week ever! This year my birthday was on a Sunday. April and Kyle came up and we all went to stay at Misty's on Friday night to Sunday morning. Kyle had a big diesel truck event that Chad tagged along too (Kyle is an awesome diesel mechanic at Toxic Diesel in St. George). That meant Misty, April and I got to spend Saturday doing our favorite activity... SHOPPING! I was on a shoe kick as usual and bought some GORGEOUS heels. Saturday night Kyle, April, Chad and I went to birthday dinner at Texas Roadhouse. Although I chickened out and didn't sit on the saddle... it was still super fun eating at one of my favorite restaurants with some of my favorite people!

Sunday morning we headed home to get ready for my birthday party! I wanted to do something fun but different so I invited friends over for:

It was my way of having an excuse to dress up! It kinda backfired on me in the fact that we got back late from Misty's and I didn't end up having time to do my hair or makeup like I had hoped but it was still super fun! We made mocktails (drinks without any alcohol of course!) and had fun hanging out and playing the game Things.

Kasey also made me my favorite birthday cake that has become somewhat of a tradition for us... Oreo ice cream cake! I don't think Sister Weaver knows we got that from her years ago and we have become a huge fan of it! Yummy!

(remember me saying I didn't have time for my hair or makeup? Don't judge too harsh)

Thanks everyone for a fun party!

The day after my birthday was Labor Day and Chad had a few surprises up his sleeve. He told be to get ready and wear comfy shoes... then we headed North without my having any clue where we were going. First stop, The Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake. I've wanted to go to the zoo since we've moved to Provo and it was finally our day! It was perfect weather and it was such an awesome day walking around with my sweetheart and seeing all the cute (and not so cute) animals!

Cute- Baby Zuri!

Cute

Not Cute

Next Post: Birthday Present in the form of Hanson Tickets :) I know you're jealous!

Crossing something off my bucket list...

2010-07-13T18:35:00.000-07:00

or... another reason why I have the coolest/sweetest/hottest husband on the planet.

As a surprise on our 18-month wedding anniversary (yes he remembers our anniversary by month still!) Chad surprised me with tickets to see Paul McCartney LIVE in Salt Lake. Not only was it awesome to see such a living legend live but for me it crossed a goal off of my bucket list... to see one of the Beatles perform live. July 13th was the concert and let me tell you... hands down the most amazing performance I've seen in my life. For an old dude Sir Paul sure knows how to ROCK and he can defiantly get the crowd going.

Mayan "Mis-Adventure"

2010-06-19T23:48:00.000-07:00

When my Mom and Hannah came out to Utah, I thought it would be fun to go to the Mayan. Now I've been their once before and although the food wasn't that great yet still overpriced, it is such a fun atmosphere and it reminds be of Disney how spectacular it is decorated. The first time I went we got an awesome seat on the ground level, right in front of the divers, and I thought it would be a fun place to take Mom and Hannah.

It made the most sense to go to the Mayan on our way home from Lagoon. So although we were tired we were up to one more adventure for the day.
I tried to make reservations but they were booked for the evening. We were told to come in anyway and we wouldn't have more than a fifteen to twenty minute wait. We wanted to sit ground level by the diving pool, but nothing was available. We were assured there were no bad seats in the house.
We arrived and were seated within minutes. So far so good. Only problem we were as far from the divers as we could get and we could only see them if we stood up and turned around. Not at all like the seating of my first experience but I was trying to get over it.

Just our luck, we had a brand new waiter to serve us. It wouldn't have been quite so bad, but he reminded us repeatedly how new, how bad and how forgetful he was. We placed our order. Eventually he brought out chips and salsa, returned with our drinks and that's when it really got interesting. Long story short, he dumped a large glass of ice water on my Mom and she was drenched from head to toe! Hannah who sat next to Mom was pretty wet too. He profusely apologized, went to get them towels (which were so tiny they didn't do much good). Our chips and salsa were drenched, and Hannah and Mom were freezing, but we were hoping we'd at least get a free dessert, maybe even a free meal. Nothing, Nada. We had to remind him to bring us new chips and salsa, our food was cold and then he had the audacity to make a comment about leaving a big tip. Although I'm pretty sure he was kidding, he should have kept his mouth shut.
We really wanted to talk to a manager, but then we started picturing the wife and baby he may or may not have at home. We decided we didn't want to get him in trouble. He seemed like a nice guy, just not a very good waiter. Believe it or not Mom still gave him a 20% tip. Her conscience wouldn't allow her to do any less.

We need to learn not to have such big expectations. We did however add to our list of memories and laughs.

Lagoon for My First Time

2010-06-19T23:40:00.000-07:00

After a day of fun in the sun and volunteering at the race, we opted for another day in the sun at Lagoon. Hannah was the only one who was smart enough to bring her swimsuit up from Provo. We longed for the water and the fun others were having at the Lagoona Beach water park side of Lagoon. We settled for plenty of water and snow cones.
Everyone told me that with my extensive history with Disney parks, Lagoon would be a let down since it is a lot smaller. NOT TRUE! Lagoon was still tons of fun! Next time... I'll bring a swim suit!

Mom and Hannah Come to Utah

2010-06-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

We had a fun visit with Mom and Hannah when they cam to visit for about 10 days in June. We played all around Utah before heading out to Idaho for the Andreasen Reunion (Grandma Gate's side of the family). Here is a summary of our adventures during their trip!

My Mom, Chad, Chad's dad Ken and I volunteered at the Ragnar - Wasatch Back Relay Race. Chad's sister Misty and her husband Nate captained and ran with Team Beaver. Each local team needed three volunteers. Last year Kyle, Ken and Chad's mom Kathy worked from midnight to 6am. It was cold and dark. Not as enjoyable as our shift. We worked from noon to 5pm. Our exchange was located a few miles outside a little town called Avon which was 20 miles or so from Logan. We were off the main roads surrounded by mountains, blue sky and plenty of dust.

The day was gorgeous. We worked at exchange #4 where we helped direct traffic and runners as they transitioned in and out. Our main job was to do a lot of encouraging and cheering. The runners were quite appreciative of our time and we did get a free race crew t-shirt.

The race is 188 miles from Logan to Park City. Much of it was quite brutal with incredible inclines and rough terrain. The teams consisted of 6 to 12 people who took turns running between 4 and 8 miles. The only prize is a medal for completion and the satisfaction gained from the endeavor. Not many looked like they actually enjoyed the running, but there was a real feeling of community and support for each other and their accomplishments. The teams were quite creative with their names and how they decorated their vehicles. It was tons of fun to drive around in the truck after the race seeing the tough terrain from the comfort of the air conditioned comfy seats! Go Misty and Nate!

P.S. Did I mention they did all this while bringing along a 4 1/2 month old baby Mason?

Chad's Birthday Week Extravaganza!

2010-06-08T10:49:00.000-07:00

Around here we don't celebrate Birthdays.

We celebrate Birthweeks!
I hope Chad enjoyed his Birthday week as much as I did.

Chad didn't want a birthday party so instead we had a cookout for Memorial Day and shared birthday cake there. Carol helped me make the cake and I think it turned out really fun[ny]!

We love opening presents under a Christmas tree so why not have a Birthday tree for the same reason? I hope Chad enjoys my silly little ideas!

After opening presents (and then watching Harry and the Henderson's... I know you are jealous of our awesome movie choice) we decided to pick up some Subway and then head up Provo Canyon. We found a fun place to eat at the Upper Falls at Bridal Veil Falls. We enjoyed our subs with a beautiful view and then headed down to the Falls to hang out with Carol and Nick (and baby Kailyn who they were babysitting). It was gorgeous! Then we drove around back in Vivian Park and saw a cute teenage moose! I yelled out MOOSE! and Chad didn't really believe me so we backed up and sure enough... there was my little moose friend! I got out of the car, and after making sure no mean mama moose was around I took pictures!

On our way home we went by the BYU Creamery Outlet where Katie works and she hooked us up! I love love love creamery ice cream.

For Chad's Birthday night we went bowling at Miracle Bowl. On Wednesday nights games are only $1 so we bowled three games. We both did good! Chad scored 177 and I scored 119. Anytime I break a hundred I'm excited!

Chad's Birthday week continued on Friday when we went to a concert at the Sandy Amphitheater. Chad had told me a couple weeks before that he had a surprise for ME for HIS birthday... He couldn't keep the surprise for long before telling me he got tickets for us to go see Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband. If you haven't heard them yet go check them out! They are super fun and it was a great concert. It sprinkled on us a tiny bit but besides that it was the perfect night for an outdoor concert and I really liked the Sandy Amphitheater.

{Friday was also Hannah's birthday so HAPPY BIRTHDAY HANNAH! We love you!}

All in all I think Chad's Birthday Week was TONS of fun!

It's the Pitts

2010-05-23T17:31:00.000-07:00

Again, I am HORRIBLE at remembering to take pictures. After being in Pittsburgh visiting my family for a week I realized I failed to take a single picture! So before leaving for the airport I quickly snapped a few pictures of one of the things we worked on while I was there.

Hannah's Mini Room Make-Over:

I FINALLY got to meet Lucy:

We had other fun times while I was visiting but no pictures... as always!

I had an awesome time visiting my family but it was my first week without Chad and I missed him TONS! Now I'm counting down until my Mama and Hannah come to Utah next month!

Maybe I'll even take more pictures... but probably not.

what time is it?

2010-05-23T17:28:00.001-07:00

ask my mom! Here's what I made my Mama for her day:

Visiting Rexburg

2010-04-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I returned to Rexburg, Idaho for the first time in 2 1/2 years! I haven't been back since I left school and went back to Florida and I have missed the small town and all my old friends and roommates. Luckily, I was able to see some of those roommates I haven't seen in sooo long! It was great to catch up and see all the changes around BYU-Idaho. They have changed TONS around campus!

Thanks to Shila and Alex for giving me a place to stay and for cooking us yummy yummy steaks! It was fun hanging out with Shila, Cara, Meagan and their hubby's, PLUS Cara's ADORABLE girls! I am sad I left before I was able to see Alesha but I'm not used to spending time away from Chad and two nights was long enough! I plan on not waiting 2 1/2 more years before seeing these girls again!

The best part of my Rexburg weekend was going to the Rexburg Temple! When I was still in Idaho I was able to go to the temple groundbreaking and see the construction almost to completion. I was also able to see them put Moroni on top but unfortunately I left right before the temple opening. I was able to go through a session and it was such a great and peaceful day! I love to see the temple! I am go grateful for the peace the Spirit brings me when I go to the temple. The Rexburg temple is GORGEOUS and I am so happy I could visit!

Obviously I didn't take this picture... but isn't it gorgeous?

P.S. I am TOTALLY fired as photographer of my own life because I never remember to take any pictures. I only took about two pictures while in Rexburg and didn't get any with Shila! I even have a really nice camera Chad got me... I really need to take more pictures!

Here came Peter Cottontail...

2010-04-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

Chad and I got into the Easter spirit by dying some eggs!

The Easter bunny even came!

Luckily, Albert only got hold of an egg and not the Easter bunny!

This morning we woke up to about 3" of snow!

Chad and I agree that we've never had snow on Easter before!

Luckily we dyed our eggs neon colors or else we'd have no way of finding the eggs in the snow!

What a wonderful Easter weekend! We've been enjoying Conference. Blogging during Conference you ask? Just as Elder Uchtdorf just said, don't judge me for acting in ways different than you! I promise I am listening :) We really have enjoyed the uplifting messages we've heard yesterday and so far today. Having Conference makes for an extra nice Easter. We will be making our own real Easter dinner later with ham, rolls and the whole nine yards! I hope you are all having as great of an Easter/Conference weekend as we are!

A Cricut Borrowed

2010-02-11T12:59:00.001-08:00

Chad's Mom was nice enough to let me borrow the Cricut for awhile. SO much fun!

Kasey, Carol and I had a craft day a few days ago and had tons of fun make some saying signs for our homes! This was mine, trying to be in the Valentine's spirit but still making something I can keep up for the rest of the year. A special thanks to Chad for taking me to Home Depot and then cutting the wood!

I don't love the look of the black and white picture and my cream walls but I fell in love with this saying and decided maybe adding some color would help the photo. Its not my favorite look ever but defiantly better!

These are hanging over our bed. I wanted something to try to make our room cuter so this is what I came up with. Its mostly painted with some cut out scrapbook paper flowers but I did add the vinyl letters as an afterthought. Maybe not as fancy or professional like I might like but for not spending any money... I think I'll keep it!

Looking like quite the scholar.

2010-01-29T16:53:00.001-08:00

Want to see what's new around here?

Yep, I now wear glasses. Since going back to school I started getting headaches after a long day of school and I could tell my eyes would begin to feel fatigued. After complaining for awhile I was convinced to go get an eye exam and learned that my eye sight is no bueno (thats loose Spanglish for no good)! I am still trying to get used to the idea of looking through a box all the time but it is DEFIANTLY helping me see better. Honestly, I thought I had really good eye sight. I am realizing how blind I really was! It is interesting to now see the world in a new way. The one thing nobody warned me about? I never thought I would now see every pore and imperfection on my face so well! SCARY! haha Maybe one day I'll try out contacts but for now,
you can call me four eyes!

Collegiate Moores

2010-01-08T12:39:00.000-08:00

Wednesday Chad and I started school at Utah Valley University here in Orem, Utah.

I haven't been in school for about 2 1/2 years and for Chad its been about 5 so we are anxious and excited to be back. We both had to juggle a few classes around trying to add classes which were already full but out schedules are pretty ironed out by now so things are looking good for us. We both only have Monday, Wednesday, Friday classes and we each have one online class. Not too shabby!
I am now an Art Major with an Emphasis in Graphic Design. I am SO excited but also nervous to now be an art major (before my graphic design emphasis was in the communications department when I was at BYU-Idaho). Right now I am taking both Drawing 1 and Water Media 1 (water color painting) which both sound fun but I am not the most talented when it comes to either. You see, I like graphic design because I can apply the same art principles but let the computer do all the hard work. It will still be fun to take these classes and I am grateful that the teachers base my grades on how much I improve rather than how great my work actually is. I'll try to share some of my artwork with you... as long as you promise to be nice about it! haha

This is me at school working on my online class (ok really I'm blogging this right now but I'll get to my online class as soon as I am through with this post) while I'm waiting for Chad to get out of class. I'm enjoying my new fav snack frozen yogurt, only when I say frozen yogurt I mean just that. I get a cup of regular Yoplait yogurt and freeze it... yummy snack!

Hello PA!

2009-12-30T19:02:00.000-08:00

... from the top of the Duquesne Incline. I've already grown to love visiting this corner of the country. Of course it helps that I get to see my family when we come out here but Pittsburgh really is a wonderful place!

It's 'bout time...

2009-12-27T11:14:00.000-08:00

that I return to my blogging world.

Why the lengthy hiatus? I have many excuses for not blogging for awhile but I've also had plenty of time to catch up and haven't so I guess all I can say is that I lost blogging bug for a bit. I do, however, miss my little net-abode and feel it is time to return more regularly. Plus, I'm sick of everyone reminding me that is has now been over two months since I've blogged last. That is entirely too long!

So what have Chad and I been up to since I blogged last?

Here are a few of the highlights:

Moved back to St. George from California for a month.
Went to the trophy truck and ATV races in Vegas.
Chad's parents got Bullit, their new toy yorkie.
Went to a Utah vs. UNLV football game in Vegas.
Visited my family in Pittsburgh for a week.
Threw a baby shower for Kasey in Provo.
Shopped for apartments in Provo Area.
Went back to St. George until we could move into our apartment.
Moved to Provo over Halloween.
Had to give Rosie, our bunny, away :(
Carved Pumpkins with Kasey and Garrett.
Went to visit Grandma Codner in Monticello.
Introduced baby Kailyn Strong to the world!
Went to Chad's cousin Kim's mission farewell.
Went to Heidi, Spencer, Trev and Tor's in Phoenix for Thanksgiving.
Decorated our apartment for Christmas.
Threw a bridal shower for Debbie.
Enrolled for spring classes at Utah Valley University.
Came to Pittsburgh for a couple weeks for Christmas and New Years.

We head back to Utah on the 3rd and classes for both of us will start January 6th. We've had the chance to play quite a bit these last couple of months which has been a blast but we are ready for more routine come January. With school and finding jobs we'll be less of the jet setters we've been for awhile but we are excited for this new chapter in our lives to begin soon.

Hope everyone had a Very Merry Christmas!

You're Invited!

2009-10-09T13:53:00.001-07:00

If you know Kasey then help us help her celebrate her baby girl on-the-way!

Hope you can come!

honey...

2009-09-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

we're home!

It feels great to be back in St. George :)

one week...

2009-09-19T17:31:00.000-07:00

until we get to leave this:
To come home to this:

And eat some of this:

I am SOOO excited :)
I can't wait to hang out with all of you back in Utah!

looking back...

2009-09-19T12:07:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been thinking a lot about how important good memories are. I've been thinking of how blessed I've been to be surrounded by loving people my whole life, and how much I cherish my family. How I hope they know how much I think about them and care for them.

(I'm going to send them each a copy of these.)

More pictures coming soon.

Rosie Posie is Growing Up

2009-09-18T16:14:00.001-07:00

Rosie is almost three and a half months by now and we had NO CLUE how big she would get and how quick she would grow! Looking at the pictures from when we just got her until now best shows off the difference!

Take a look for yourself:

Crazy, huh?

(Chad is especially cute in this picture. i love his smirk)

We love her but I'm not always sure she is a bunny... she just looks like a living cotton ball. When I look at her in pictures, she looks so weird. You'll just have to meet her in person so you can see how lovely she really is.

P.S. To give you an idea, in real life she reminds me of the white rabbit from Disney's Alice in Wonderland.

Exhibit Bunny

2009-09-14T19:04:00.000-07:00

Please note Exhibit A compared with Exhibit Bunny.

(Click on photo to better see the details of Rosie's work)

We don't allow Rosie to run all around the house like some bunny owners I know. However, we will sometimes build a blocked out area of the living room for Rosie to run around and stretch her little rabbit legs. You know, get her jump on. We know these animals are known for chewing on things such as wires and, well, anything else they can find. We hid and covered everything we could think of so she wouldn't mess anything up. We also don't leave her alone... except for the five minutes or so we were in the kitchen finishing dinner. She was sitting on the couch looking all innocent and I never suspected anything to be different than we had left it for those very few minutes. That was until I went to change the channel. You know how you get to where you don't even look at the buttons, knowing where each is by the feel of your hand? Well let me tell you it sure feels different when your bunny chewed them off! We now have seven buttons which are much leaner than they were previously. Thanks to Rosie for their sleek "chiseled" look. Thankfully the remote still works but Chad had to take a minute before he saw the humor in the situation...

Oh Rosie...

23 Candles...

2009-09-08T20:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had an AWESOME birthday. I didn't take many pictures so sorry for the random few I do have. Also, I realized I don't have any of Heidi, Spencer or the boys who came for a visit since it was a long weekend for Labor day! Here is what I do have for show and tell:

Chad got me some really awesome birthday gifts that I've been wanting including: Stila mascara, Harry Potter book #7 that I still haven't read, Edward Scissorhands and a new cutting mat for my rotary cutter! Its everything I've been wanting to buy so thanks to my Hubby Buns for being so awesome to me :)

(be kind to me, I just woke up here and we are about to get ready to go to the park)

We got to go to Disney's California Adventure because 1) I'm a Disney freak, 2) I got in free on my birthday, and 3) Heidi, Spencer and the boys wanted to go to Disneyland and California Adventure during their visit!

This is Chad and I letting the nice photographer cast member take a picture of us to we don't only have pictures where we take it ourself like a facebook picture :)
P.S. We rode that Ferris Wheel in the picture, and it is the most intense ride in the parks I swear! You get in the basket thing and don't even buckle in. Once it goes, every basket is on an individual track which, as you go up and down, cause you to fall and then rock super crazy. I seriously felt more nauseous on that ride than anything else that day!

Chad made me yummy oreo ice cream cake like Kasey makes for me! Rumor has it I get another one once we get back to Utah and I can't wait because it is the yummiest stuff!!!

Blowing out my 23 candles!

Thanks everyone for all the birthday presents, phone calls, voicemails, texts and facebook messages! It was an awesome birthday thanks to ya'll

(I realized I hardly ever say ya'll anymore and I feel I need to bring it back to show my roots) :)

The rest...

2009-09-01T20:46:00.001-07:00

of our trip to Disneyland with the Afflecks- Chad's sister Misty and her family

(no I didn't just go to ride the Jungle Cruise)

Right inside the park, ready for an awesome day!

Nate, Jake, Cole, Carson and Misty on It's a Small World

They added Disney characters to It's a Small World! I LOVE them!

Cole, Carson, Nate and Jake in Mickey's Toon Town!

Chad helping Cole watch Fantasmic. I was too short to see ANYTHING!

So we went and watched the second showing so I could see!

The end of a very HAPPY day :) (well we were at the happiest place on earth...)

Isn't he just so adorable?

Jakey doing what we all wished we were already!

Thanks Afflecks for spending such an awesome day with us at Disneyland! It was so much fun hanging out with you guys!

And since I'm spoiled... I get to go to California Adventure with Heidi, Spencer, Trev and Tor on Saturday for my birthday! I can't wait!

(and no, I can NEVER get enough of Disney... but I'll take all I can get)

San Diego Temple... through the gate

2009-08-29T19:28:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from when we drove by the San Diego Temple last Sunday. We were hoping we could still walk around the grounds like we do it Utah but at 8:30 the gates were already closed. Here are a few shots we got from outside the gate:

What a GORGEOUS place!

Our Recent Trip on the Jungle Cruise

2009-08-29T16:42:00.000-07:00

Hello, everyone, and welcome aboard the Jungle Cruise. My name is Joe, and I'll be your skipper, guide, social director, and dance instructor for the next three months.

Now, let's everyone turn around and wave good-bye to all the beautiful people on the dock...

and the ugly ones too.

Nothing to be concerned about. Just a bunch of gorillas having a good time. I wouldn't get too close, though. They may look like a nice bunch, but let me tell you- those guys are real animals.

How nice, the lions are protecting the sleeping zebra.

You've all probably heard that the hippos are only dangerous when wiggling their ears and blowing bubbles...but that's not what really makes them dangerous. See it's actually the ritual they have of placing their young in the trees to forge on leaves until the grow to 6,000 pounds, then they cannon ball toward the boats, sinking them all 2 and 1/2 feet down to the bottom of the jungle floor. Oh look there's one now...

That looks like one hungry, hungry hippo.

Chad at the 8th wonder of the world...

Beautiful Schweitzer Falls is upon us again. The overhanging rock formation will afford us a different view this time. I have a special treat for you, folks. You may never have seen this before... there it is- the backside of water!

Oh, no! Man eating pirrana!

The women and children don't need to worry, they will be safe...

they only eat men.

There's old Trader Sam, head salesman of the area. Business has been shrinking lately, so this week only, Sam's offering a two-for-one special: two of his, for one of yours!
There's old Trader Sam... Three explorers came through here last week and Sam invited them for dinner. When he told them what the menu was, they completely lost their heads.I got their late. All I got was the cold shoulder and some finger food.Trader Sam was thrown out of college, ya, he was caught buttering up one of his professors, now he’s a psychologist. You can tell who is clients are, he a shrink to the ones on the left and the ones on the right are his basket cases.

And now, probably the most dangerous part of our journey- the return to civilization! I certainly hope you've enjoyed our cruise. However, if your in-laws are still with you, you've missed a golden opportunity. However, bring them back later tonight for our "in-law" special... halfway for half fare, no questions asked.

As we approach, please notice that there's a dock on the left, and a dock on the right. But don't let it confuse you. It's a paradox.

Any children left on board become property of the Walt Disney company after 24 hours.Please make sure you have all you belongings with you including your small children, if you leave them we will be forced to take them back to It’s a Small World and glue their feet to the floor and make them sing that hideous song over and over and over.

Well we've laughed and we've cried. We've almost died! I love you like family. Now get out! I'm sorry, that was rude. Please get out.

Bad blogger.

2009-08-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

I don't mean to become so nonexistent in the blog world lately. In fact, I'm alive and well when it comes to exploring everyone else's blogs but I've been so bad about posting lately. My main excuse it having little to report on. Also, I always feel boring when I post a picture less update and I keep forgetting to snap some photos when we do happen to be out and about. Here is a quick update on what Chad and I are up to...

Still in California and SOOO ready to go home. I'm grateful that we both have jobs but our roller coaster schedule is getting a little old. One day we get to see each other for hours and hours, others it seems like we only get a few minutes together for the whole day.

I hope (dream and pray) we'll have a more set schedule come this Fall.

Rosie is growing tons but cute as ever. She doesn't really look like a bunny... or anything specific to be honest but she is fluffy and cute. So fluffy, in fact, that she could barely see through the fur that was falling over her eyes. That is, until Chad gave her a little trim and now she has a mohawk. Defiantly the cutest/most hardcore bunny rabbit ever!

Yesterday we went down to San Diego for the first time since we've been down here. Misty, Nate and the boys are down here for a week and we had fun hanging out at the beach and condo with them. Chad helped to boys catch little crabs (not just sand crabs but legit little pincher crabs). The extent of my helping was holding the bucket they were kept in for a few minutes. After finding quite a few little sea friends they let them back in the wild so we could head inside. Another cool thing they discovered and showed me were TONS of live starfish clinging to the posts under the pier. It was awesome to see so many huge starfish.

On the way home from San Diego we stopped by the temple. It was gorgeous of course but we were bummed to find out the gates were already closed! We took a few pictures from outside the gate but we plan on trying to head down there again sometime this summer when they are open.

Wednesday Chad and I are both off work to go to Disneyland with Misty, Nate and the boys! I can't wait for my second Disneyland trip of the summer (and my life). It will be fun to have another vacationy day where Chad and I can better enjoy California for the fun it can be. I hope its not too crowded and hot but it will be a blast no matter what!

My birthday is in a couple weeks and what does that mean? Another trip to Disneyland of course! Heidi, Spencer and their boys are coming to visit for labor day weekend which means we will have family here to celebrate my birthday with us! Everyone knows that I could never get tired of Disney-anything and since I've never been to Disneyland prior to this summer I am glad to get the chance to explore and enjoy a new Disney experience!

Here is our update for now.

I'll try to add some pictures soon!

Wait... Before you hang up...

2009-08-22T20:12:00.000-07:00

Anyone who really knows me knows that I've been a huge Hanson fan since 1997 when the beloved MmmBop hit the top of the charts. Now for all of you that think Hanson is dead I am hear to enlighten you! Check out this awesome article explaining why Hanson really is a big deal in the music industry!

(I'll warn you, there three or so curse words from the interviewer just so you don't think that I am reading horrible stuff but it is a really awesome article so just bleep them out in your mind when you read them)

not even a war wound for sympathy...

2009-08-10T20:51:00.000-07:00

you know when you get hurt, like run into the open dishwasher with your shin (I do this probably twenty times a week) or maybe drop a can or your toe? Do you ever wish you had a great bruise or a little swelling to kind of prove how bad it hurts. Like "Hey you see that bruise? Yeah I'm not a wimp for crying because look at all that swelling?" Well last night I dropped my laptop right down on my foot. Ouch! Seriously... It hurt super bad instantly. Tear sprung to my eyes. I looked down and I had a cut that was starting to bleed pretty good. It only took a couple of minutes after limping to the bathroom to pour some hydrogen peroxide on my wound to notice the swelling. I had to show Chad how bad it looked so he could understand that it really did hurt. For the rest of the night I limped around and tried not to let any of the ooze get on the couch or anything. I went to bed a little excited for the huge bruise I would surely get by morning to show off how bad it really hurt. It never helps to have a little temporary war wound to try for some sympathy points. What did I wake up to? A normal foot with a little scratch. Seriously... I was so disappointed. The swelling went down, no more blood, and NO BRUISE! No sympathy for my, just a little pain as I walk around in my flip flops. Next time I'll try for a band-aid to show off.

P.S. No laptops were harmed in this while ordeal.

P.P.S. (or is it P.S.S?) I really am grateful I didn't sustain any long lasting damage to my foot. The only point I'm trying to make is that I wouldn't mind a bruise here and there... when it hurts so bad!

Blessings when you least expect them...

2009-08-07T18:06:00.000-07:00

When we first came out here for the summer I applied to quite a few places. Mainly just retail type places but I had no luck and didn't hear back from anywhere. Between not finding any lead way from the jobs I had applied to and hearing on the news how high the unemployment rate is in California (and the rate is on a steady rise they show) I quickly lost hope of finding a job. Chad does pretty good at this job but with me sitting at home all day it made sense and makes me feel better to be working some too. I gave up hope on the work front and instead tried to keep myself busy. I've had fun here and there for sure but there is only so much reading/watching TV/crafting/swimming you can do (I understand this isn't the strongest argument because when we can't, we all wish we could do more of this but it does get old after awhile). On Monday morning, completely out of the blue, we got a call from the main offices for Chad's company. They just asked him if I wanted a job. Easy as that. For the next month or so I'll be working 5-10pm in the evening answering phones and scheduling installs for his company. Moral or the story? Don't go out and search for a job, wait until they come searching for you while you are sleeping in way too late! Just kidding... But I am grateful to be able to help us save money and keep busy so Chad isn't to only one working so hard around here.

baby bunny bath

2009-08-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

Here is Rosie freaking out trying to "clean" herself AFTER we gave her a little bath. She looks like an alien when her hair is so wet! I just thought this was funny!

America's Next Top Bunny

2009-08-03T15:30:00.000-07:00

She is so cute! We love her :)

cute little tutu

2009-07-28T16:01:00.000-07:00

My picture taking doesn't do it justice. Its really cute though!

Can't wait till she graces us with her presence :)

sewing machine fun

2009-07-20T20:51:00.001-07:00

Rosie's New Room

2009-07-16T14:31:00.000-07:00

Ok we didn't spring for a whole room but close enough for her!

Chad is so good at thinking up great ideas. We want some place for Rosie to be able to run and play without having to mess up the whole living room. We looked at animal play pens at Petco and the cheapest was $80! We took a trip to Home Depot and look what we ended up with! Its perfect and even better, when we move back we can just roll it back up until we get to where we can build it back up for her. She is seriously so much fun! Nice to have a little friend while Chad is working so much all the time :)

its getting hot in here.

2009-07-15T19:38:00.001-07:00

As it gets warmer, the less use our swamp cooler seems to be. It helps enough to use it but in order to not sweat in my house it seems I have to leave the air on, use both fans and keep all blinds closed at all times to try to block the sun from beating down in here. I know it isn't as warm as it is in St. George but without central air, its getting tough! Yesterday I spent 4 hours at the pool :) I'll survive thanks to the pool and Otter Pops, I'm just sad that my roses only lasted a couple days because they couldn't stand the heat. I tried keeping them cool but it was no use. I still love them since Chad got them for me, just sad they died so quick!

How are you guys staying cool this summer?

our new addition...

2009-07-15T01:10:00.000-07:00

there is a new member of our Moore Family,

We can't have a puppy so instead Chad got me the cutest 1 month old bunny instead! She is SOOO cute and we are already crazy in love with her. (Believe it or not, it was Chad's idea to go get her! He is such a sucker for cute little animals, seriously!)

More about our lil' Rosie to come!

6 Months Married...

2009-07-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

to the most amazing man in the universe. I love Chad more than anything in the world. I am blessed because he is great and reminding me that the feeling is mutual.

Friday was our 6 month anniversary. Its hard to believe that is has already been six months since we were sealed for time and eternity in the St. George Temple. I'm grateful for this every single day of my life.

To further prove how amazing Chad really is, this was how yesterday went:

We woke up to Chad's work phone ringing. He took the call out front and I promptly fell back asleep and didn't think anything of it. When he came back in he told me that they gave him an install for noon and that he first had to go to the office but would be able to come home for a few minutes before he had to leave for the job. Again, I was half asleep and everything seems just as usual so I hadn't thought anything was different than every other work day. So Chad left and when he came home I was surprised that he hadn't gone to the office at all... instead he brought me these lovelies:

When I asked when he was going to go to the office since he hadn't when I thought he was, he told me that he told the office to "shove it" and that he didn't want the job at noon, or any jobs for the rest of the day. I was confused since Chad isn't exactly the type to be so rude to his employers and risk loosing his job. He then let on that two weeks earlier he requested the day off but kept it a surprise for me so we could have our 6-month anniversary to spend the whole day together! I LOVE surprises and I couldn't have thought of a better one :) We decided a great way to start our day together was to go to the beach! For the first time since we've been here we didn't just hang out but we actually got in the (still freezing) water. After a few minutes we were numb and having a blast. We jumped around the waves a lot and after getting trashed by a huge wave be decided to head back in. After we warmed up we went back home to shower and change.

After resting up and getting ready at home for a bit, we went out to the Irvine Spectrum Center which is a huge outdoor mall. We ate some dinner at Red Robin and watched some live local musicians outside playing a bunch of Beatles songs. Then we went to see 17 Again (I wanted to see it before but we missed out before it left theaters and I was bummed but then we found a $2 theater that was still playing it). It was really funny and a great way to top off our fun anniversary celebration. After TONS of fun and a much needed chance to hang out together and for Chad to take a break it was such an awesome day!

P.S. Thanks Chad for being such a thoughtful, loving and handsome husband :) Love you always and forever!

Our 4th of July.

2009-07-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

It was kind of frustrating for the first part of our 4th. Chad's company wouldn't give Chad and the other techs the day off however the sales reps (most of them anyways) decided not to work at all or not to work long that day. What does that mean for us? We couldn't leave the house really until later in the afternoon just in case Chad would get called on a job which of course he didn't so we had to just hang out for awhile. We went to the pool for about an hour. Then we went back and we were going to grill out but someone was using the grill here at the complex so we ended up having our 4th of July hamburgers and hotdogs on the George Foreman grill. (Blah... I must admit at this point I wasn't a lot of fun to be around. I was kinda homesick for family. Chad's side was having a family reunion camping at Cedar Mountain and my family flew back to Florida for a visit so I was feeling sorry for myself and Chad that we weren't with them, rather than just enjoy what we could be doing together that could be fun. I got over it pretty quick but for a little while I wasn't much fun.) Then Chad suggested we go to Yogurtland, which I LOVE, so I started to perk up. We were going to go watch fireworks over at Huntington Beach but we heard that parking was horrible and by the time we could leave it was already around five so it would have been a mess. We decided instead to go watch the Disneyland fireworks over at Downtown Disney. We went to a mall first just to kill some time but the stores were closing as we got there so I got to look around and see that it is a nice mall that I would like to go back to sometime. Once we got to Downtown Disney we found out that there was a $15 parking fee but we then learned that if we ate at any of the restaurants they would validate our parking fee. So what did we do? We went and got $6 nachos to share and then got our $15 back! Woohoo! haha We watched the fireworks from the parking lot and they were really nice! Then we went and got a Redbox movie and went home to hang out, play games and watch a movie. It wasn't the most elaborate 4th of July but since I was able to spend it with my hubby it was wonderful! Last year Chad was on his alaska cruise for the 4th so this year we ended up having a blast for our first 4th of July together!

I change my blog layout...

2009-07-03T20:42:00.001-07:00

as often as I change my clothes. More often sometimes. I know that most people choose a background and keep it for awhile but guess what? Not me. I love the pretty colors and fun designs. Cheers for an ever-changing bloggy blog!

Give Away Today Shout Out!

2009-07-03T18:54:00.000-07:00

Do you already enter to win cool stuff on Give Away Today everyday? If not, what are you waiting for? They feature really cool businesses and stores where they give stuff away! For free! All you have to do is comment :)

Feel like you never win anything so what even the point?
I NEVER win anything, I don't have the best of luck and I never expected to win but thought, what the heck? And guess what... I WON SOMETHING!

So, seriously, what are you waiting for?

i love presents in the mail :)

2009-06-30T14:53:00.000-07:00

Especially when they are presents won on Give Away Today from the lovely Crystal B!

I love how cute not only the bobbi pins are but how cute they were packaged!

And look at the cute summery colors!

Thank you thank you thank you!

Tweet Tweet!

2009-06-26T15:31:00.001-07:00

All over TV and the internet I keep hearing TONS about Twitter. At first, having an already budding obsession with Blogger and Facebook and having finally gotten rid of Myspace, I didn't think I was interested in adding another internet outlet to waste time on. But, like I do with most social networking trends, I cracked and got Twitter. Its super fun so far though! Its like a much simpler Facebook idea. Think just Facebook statuses. This doesn't sound that exciting does it? Well give it a try and see what you think! Super fun! Plus you can follow my Twitter "tweets" right here on my blog! Just look at my "Bizz's Tweets" at the top right corner right here on my bloggy blog. I can even tweet via text message for no cost (since we already have unlimited texts on our phone plan)! Its crazy how quick it can update too! So if there are any other tweeters out there let me know your Twitter URL so I can follow you!

P.S. The most fun I am finding with it is all the celebrities tweet and its kinda fun to follow them and see what they are doing in real time! hehe Silly I know :)

my NEW toy :)

2009-06-23T18:12:00.000-07:00

So I have been asking for a sewing machine basically every single day for months now. Guess what... I finally got one :) SO EXCITING! Its been, well, a few years since I have sewn anything so I am relearning how to use the different stitches and everything so I haven't made anything worth showing yet but it is still fun. I'm planning on making myself a skirt this week and I am currently working on some headband things so we'll see. I'll show you my progress once I make something worth showing!!! LOVE IT!

P.S. Thanks to my lovely Mama who got it for me! She DEF didn't have to but I am sooo happy she did :)

Lucky You!

2009-06-20T11:18:00.001-07:00

Lucky you! The first five people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice - For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:

1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It’ll be done this year. {might be a little while}
4. You will have no clue what it’s going to be. It may be a story. It may be poetry or maybe even some creation I haven’t even invented yet. I may draw or paint something. I may bake you something and mail it to you. I may even sew something for you. Who knows? Not you, that’s for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.

The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must re-post this on YOUR blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog.

Leave your email in the comment.

(I got this from Cindi's blog because I wanted her creation so here it is! And then... pass it on :)

Perfect Sunday

2009-06-15T12:42:00.000-07:00

Chad's work schedule this summer is so up and down that I never know when or for how long he will be home. Except, that is, on Sundays when he has the whole day off. We slept in, went to sacrament meeting, came home, did some laundry, made and ate yummy mexican casserole, played some Rummikub, then a little Skip-bo, made some chocolate-chip cookies, played some Yahtzee (I won almost everything we played all day, not how it usually works out since Chad is such a smart player), watched a few reruns of I'm a Celebrity! Get Me Out of Here, then settled down to watched Big, and then went to sleep.

All Chad wanted was to hang out and not really do anything since the Sunday before we went to Magic Mountain, week before that we had family in town, week before that had a little bbq with friends after church, week before that probably went for a walk on the beach... you get it. Just not a lot of days just hanging out at the house doing nothing, like yesterday. It was a perfect Sunday.

Chad's Car Was Broken Into!

2009-06-11T17:36:00.001-07:00

How can people be so 1) desperate and 2) inconsiderate? Seriously...

To Who Broke Into Chad's Car:

Why did you think it necessary to shatter Chad's poor little back window in order to steal the Tom Tom (we like to call it a Chad Chad) I got him? Did you not realize it is so important for him to be able to find his jobs all over Orange County? Maybe you didn't realize he was sick today and that really the last thing he needed to find was his car having been broken into. Would you have still broken the window if you knew that the car isn't even his but that we are borrowing it from his dad. Probably. Now, we have to go to the store later tonight and pay for a whole new GPS because he seriously needs it all-day everyday. Want to know whats funny? I got that GPS on clearance for $29! All that trouble for under $30 bucks! The part I'm most frustrated over is that its pretty impossible to find a deal like that again so I get to go fork out full price for a new GPS now. And I get to file a police report so we can open an insurance claim and then spend the time to go and actually get the window fixed. Were you really that desperate for a GPS?

I do have to thank you for one thing, however. Thanks for only stealing the $29 GPS. Thanks for leaving his brand new satellite radio that he just got last week for his birthday. Thanks for leaving his ladder and all of his work equipment. Thanks for not grabbing his blue tooth. We really appreciate you only taking the GPS, considering the situation.

And I have to compliment you on your bravery. It takes a lot of guts to break a window and steal from a car in broad daylight in a gated apartment complex. I'm sure you are very good at your job of breaking in and stealing other's things.

Sincerely yours,
Your New GPS's Original Owner

Chad's Poor Little Broken Window

my new fav...

2009-06-10T13:35:00.000-07:00

I know there are about a million cute and trendy little frozen yogurt places these days and all are yummy and fun but I have found my absolute favorite. Yogurtland. We just kind of happened upon it by seeing it on the way home from Costco one day and Carly suggesting we try it. Thank goodness she did because it is so so so cute and yummy yummy yummy. A few days after our first try I took Chad and he loved it as well. Yesterday we had a girls only Costco/Target/Henry's Farmers Market/Wal-mart run and stopped by for my third Yogurtland experience. I was still just as impressed as the first time. They have like 15 flavors of self-serve frozen yogurt at a time. You start out getting a bowl (your choice of huge or huger) and then you pick your flavors, as many and as much as you choose because you do it all yourself (my faves so far are resh strawberry, toasted coconut and raspberries and cream but they also have yummy flavors like double cookies and cream, new york cheesecake and dutch chocolate just to name a few)! Then they have a self-serve topping bar with tons of fresh fruit and yummy candy and cookie bits plus a few different colors of sprinkles to choose from. How to pay? Thats ever cool to me! Its all 30 cents an ounce. Not too shabby! It works out to be between $3.00-$4.00 if you fill up the huge size cup. Tons of yumminess so it is way worth it! They even finish it off with a super cute eco friendly pink or lime green spoon. Check out the website (www.yogurt-land.com) to see if they have a location near you! If not, come visit me and I'll be happy to take you :)

trimmy trim trim

2009-06-09T14:46:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I was talking to Kasey on the phone and she was on her way to get her haircut. Of course hearing her plans to do so made me want to get my haircut but I am trying to grow my hair out so I couldn't do anything too drastic. Just a few minutes after getting off the phone with Kasey my friend Carly here in Anaheim called to tell me she passed by a place with good prices on haircuts, manicures and pedicures. So of course I broke down and got my haircut. Just a trim though. I know its probably silly that I posted a picture when its not much different than before but Kasey wanted to see it and I'm bored, so enjoy!

Magic Mountain

2009-06-08T16:50:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took a mini-vacation to Six Flags Magic Mountain. (We typically don't choose theme parks for our Sunday activities but with Chad working six days a week as we live in So Cal for our few month long adventure and since his birthday was earlier in the week and since his cousin Josh and Josh's wife Brittany invited us to go with them we made an exception). It was a lot of fun! Magic Mountain has so many awesome roller coasters and everyone in our group loves big rides so it was great to all stick together. (Along with Me, Chad, Josh and Brittany we also met their friends Adam and Jenny and Adam's brother Mike who were all really awesome to get to know as well) I made Chad carry the camera in his pocket all day but only managed to remember to take a couple pictures all day (both of Chad of course). We are tired today but yesterday was defiantly a blast. After two theme parks in a week I hope Chad had the best birthday week ever!

The handsome guy himself!

Post Company Clean Up

2009-06-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

After five days of having company in our one-bedroom apartment, they went home to sunny St. George, UT on Wednesday. Don't get me wrong, I loved having family here to keep me company and we had a BLAST on Chad's Birthday but even though they did a great job of helping tidy up before they left I still have a lot of cleaning to do. It doesn't help that I took yesterday as a little R&R day. Now I have laundry in, need to finish some dishes, clean the bathroom and vacuum and then fold and put laundry away once its done. Aw the joys of being a housewife for the summer (I really do love it). Good practice for when we have kids! Have fun and wish me luck (luck that I wont get distracted by fun things).

cute as a button

2009-06-04T13:38:00.001-07:00

i'll give you an earful

Guess I've got the crafty bug lately. I see so many cute blogs with such cute ideas! Today wasn't a huge project but still, so fun! Hannah's birthday is today and although it will be a late present (hope she isn't reading this to spoil the surprise) I made her some cute stud earrings which are sure to make her look just cute as a button (I might have made myself a few pairs too!).

Some earrings for Hannah

(the one on the left was a decorative brad and the one of the right was a thumb tack)

cute as a button earrings also for her

and maybe a few for me as well :)

Chad's 27th Birthday!

2009-06-03T12:18:00.000-07:00

This was our first Birthday as a married couple! We wanted to do something special and since we happen to be living in Anaheim, CA for the summer, where better to go than Disneyland! Especially since they let you in free for your birthday, score! Chad's mom and a niece and nephew came to visit for a few days for Chad's birthday so the five of us had an awesome time.

Now for those who don't know, I am kind of a Disney freak :) I did an internship and worked at Magic Kingdom a few years back, not to mention have been going to Walt Disney World a couple of times a year with my family since I was born (no exaggeration, the first time I went to Disney out of the womb I was like two weeks old). But yesterday was monumental. At the age of 22, yesterday was my first ever trip to Disneyland.

Now I've talked to so many people who either swear Disneyland is WAY better or many more who would say that after growing up a Walt Disney World girl that Disneyland would be such a let down. Who do I side with, you ask? Neither. I still love Walt Disney World and it is totally fun how huge it is and how many parks there are but comparing Magic Kingdom to Disneyland (the most fair way to compare the two as I see it) I thought it was a tie. There are things that I completely love about both. Disneyland still felt just as Disney to me as my east coast roots. It was great to see that they have kept some of the classic rides that MK has revamped over the years (I'm talking Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, Enchanted Tiki Room, etc.). Overall yesterday was defiantly a Magical Day!

Here is some of the fun:

Birthday Boy Chad on the tram! Almost to Disneyland...

Sleeping Beauty's castle looked so silly to me compared to Cinderella's!

Just came out of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride and a couple randomly asked
if we wanted them to take a picture for us... so there it is! haha
Caden, Chelsie and Kathy (Chad's Mom) and Chad
waiting for Alice in Wonderland.

The clan again later in the day, right before we went home.
Everyone so tired after 13 hours of Disneyland fun!

What a fun happy birthday for my hubby! What a great day for us all!

The Babysitters Club

2009-05-16T20:19:00.000-07:00

With our Dish we have free movie channels for awhile and I love how random some of the movies are. There is a family movie channel on which was the Babysitters Club last night so I DVR'd it :) Chad is working a lot around the clock much of the time so it fun for me to watch some movies from the good 'ol days!

Anyone love this movie as much as me?

Just Keep Swimming...

2009-05-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

California is expensive. I'm learning of all the extra fees of living here in the beautiful state of California. CRV fees? Seriously? After an unknown $1.30 CRV CA Deposit fee on our Wal-Mart receipt yesterday Chad and I did a little research on the internet to find out what was stealing that extra money from our bank account. Apparently, California wants to encourage recycling which is a good thing. Don't think I am anti-green or anything but with CRV fees they charge you per bottle or can of every drink purchase you make. So... for each of our gallons of drinking water $.10 is automatically added to our bill. Even more of a shock... for EACH of the cans in our 24-pack of Coke Zero they charged $.05. $.05 x 24= crappy! I did find out today that I can take my cans and bottles back to certain recycling centers and get my money back. Still though, how about the days where you would make money from collecting cans, not just get the money back you already spent?

I'm scared to death of our first utility bill. In our lovely apartment we don't have central air, just a swamp cooler, and I have no clue how much it costs to run the thing. I've been pretty liberal with my use of the A/C because, well lets face it, its freakin hot here! After talking to a few neighbors yesterday I'm a little apprehensive now. Sure I'm expecting a hike in our utility bill from what we were spending per month in Utah since we were averaging $30 bucks but our neighbors were talking $200-$300... needless to saw I'm going to spend a lot of time at the pool this summer.

California Dreamin!

2009-05-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

Ok, after a week and a half of being in California I finally have internet!

Chad is gone A LOT with his job. When we first got here I was scared to death of driving so I never left the apartment and I was so bored and lonely I thought I hated being here. Luckily, while at church last Sunday, we met another couple here with Chad's company Elite and I now have a friend to hang out with during the days. Although I still miss Chad all the time it is nice to have Carly to hang out with. It got even better when Carly and I got the guts to go knock on a door that we were told was the apartment of the other Elite wife. Thats when we met Jess. Now the three of us hang out during the days and it is making California so much fun! I still have plans to find a job but its nice to have a couple weeks to just have fun and get to know the area.

Besides meeting new friends, Sunday was a really nice day. For one, Chad never has to work on any Sundays so its the one day that we can hang out all day with each other. Saturday night we looked online to find out what ward we should go to and we were confused because it said that sacrament meeting was at 12:50 pm. We thought that was weird that it wasn't at 1:00 pm but we didn't think much of it until hearing different things during sacrament. We soon realized the ward schedule is backwards. Relief Society/Priesthood start at 11:00 am, Sunday school at noon and then that explains the 12:50 pm start time. Good to know for this Sunday! It seems like a really cool and diverse ward though. Tons of Polynesians which is wonderful because I have always loved their culture. They even have a free Hawaiian class at the church on Thursday nights!

After church we went with our new friends Carly and her husband Nick and went for a walk on the beach. It was nice except... I have never experienced random tar splats on the beach. I soon discovered this on Newport beach though after stepping in something that then did NOT want to come off. I'm serious. I tried scrapping it off but no luck! We came home and tried to think of what could take it off. Nail polish maybe? Nope. Instead it spread all over and got worse. Chad and I both called out Dad's to try to get some advice and move agreed that nothing we had was going to work. We decided we needed to go to the store to get Bug and Tar remover that you would normally use on your car. It worked and I finally had my foot back!

Yesterday, we decided we needed to go to the pool and start work on getting our California tans. The only problem is that after living in Utah for the last year I am whiter than I think I have ever been in my life. Because of that, after a couple hours hanging out by the pool yesterday I am now a lobster! I'm not too sore but for sure got too much sun. Now I am just hoping it will tan up before tomorrow when we plan on going to the beach!

Back to Blogging

2009-04-04T14:52:00.000-07:00

TONS has happened since I blogged last. I thought, why not take conference time to also try to catch up on my blog. I will try to fill people in on wedding stuff here and there but I don't want to get overwhelmed trying to post everything that happened so far this year. One new exciting thing happening this weekend is that Chad and I are flying back to Florida to help my family move to Pittsburgh. My dad has been working in Pennsylvania for a couple years now and my family has finally had enough of traveling back and forth. A few weeks ago they decided that now is the time to make the move. Hannah has Spring Break this week so she is already up with my dad and Chad and I will help my mom drive up from Florida to their new home. It will be crazy not having my parents and Hannah in Florida but this will sure be exciting for them! I can't wait to see my family.

Better than Charlie Brown's Christmas Tree Anyday!

2008-12-03T08:39:00.001-08:00

Yesterday Chad and I started what we have decided will be one of our Christmas traditions. We chopped down our own tree! This is something I have never done before but we defiantly weren’t left without some great new memories (and maybe some sore muscles). Chad went and got a permit from the BLM so we were legal and it only cost $10. Way cheaper than buying a live tree from Lowes or some place. We went out past Pine Valley where we are allowed to cut down trees. We got out there right at sunset which made it harder but we were able to find the tree right before the sun went down. The tree we came across was a great looking tree. The only problem is it had two trunks, meaning when you cut it down you have two pretty halves of a tree. Oh well… all the better! Two trees in one! Chad started cutting the tree with the saw and guess what… the saw broke apart! Haha Chad had to hike back to the truck to get another saw while I stood FREEZING waiting by our tree. He got back, chopped down our trees and then we drug them back to the truck. We had to go get a tree stand from Wal-mart before we could put the thing up but we got one and brought the tree in. We didn’t realize how crooked the trunk was until we had trouble getting the tree to stay up! So what did we do? Tied the tree to the wall using dental floss of course! You can’t tell and now the tree is stabilized. It smells wonderful! (And so do I after getting so much sap on me.) I love our Christmas tree! Now tonight we get to decorate!

Announcements

2008-12-02T12:27:00.000-08:00

Ok I finally finished them! I know I am a little late in the game but as of this afternoon the announcements are finalized (hopefully correctly) and sent to the printer! That means I have a week to get all the addresses together and ready to send! AHHH! Not the part I am excited about at all! Oh well, thank goodness for printable labels. If you want an announcement and aren’t sure I have your address please email it to ChadandElizabeth2009@gmail.com. Thanks so much!

P.S. 39 more days until I marry my best friend!

Family Pictures

2008-12-01T09:35:00.000-08:00

Besides being with a new family, I had another first this Thanksgiving. Taking family pictures with a new family! That was an… interesting experience. We all met at a park at 10:00 am to meet up with the photographer and to take the pictures. Well, most of us were there at 10 but we had to wait for the last of the family who finally showed up around 10:30. That’s fine, they had tons of kids to have to get dressed and ready. It was cold and we were trying to take pictures before it rained. By the time we finally took the pictures of the whole family it was spitting on us a little but not too bad. We got most of the kids to smile and look happy for the picture which I thought counted as a success. The problem wasn’t us though, it was the photographer. She was way nice and she seemed to be great at directing us and everything. We got the pictures back though and what a disappointment! In almost all of the pictures either our heads or necks are chopped off. She took a lot of candid shots of the kids while we were waiting but when it comes to pictures of the whole family there are only three to choose from, and not very great ones either. There is one that turned out well and it will, I’m sure, be the one we end up using but it was just a very sad disappointment. It isn’t often they get everyone together to take pictures. Hopefully next time will be better!

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T09:34:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving was good, it still takes some getting used to when you start celebrating with a new family but it was really nice. All of Chad’s siblings with their children got together at his house. That means ten little kids running around CRAZY. I love it! The food was great, of course. I contributed sweet potato casserole and green bean casserole but neither, I think, got cooked enough because although they tasted good they were too runny. I felt bad that my only contributions weren’t very good. L Nobody complained so that was good. We all just hung out and relaxed for most of the day which is all I cared to do. Chad and I watched Santa Claus 3 and took naps. Overall, although I missed Florida and my family, it was a great Thanksgiving!

The Wedding Dress

2008-11-25T13:57:00.000-08:00

I always envisioned buying my wedding dress with my mom and all my friends around, trying a million dresses on, taking hours until finally finding the perfect dress but then again, when do things really work out the way you expect them to?
In St. George there are only really three wedding dress shops. One afternoon I went with two of my roommates just for a preview day of dress shopping. My real plans were to go up to Provo with all of my bridesmaids when my mom and Hannah came out for my shower but I wanted to feel more like a bride with planning my wedding and all so I went ahead just for a gander. We went into the first store, not the best experience. There were no customers and the store was still open for a couple of hours yet the people in the store still complained about me coming in without an appointment. I could understand if they were busy but come on! Not a single customer in the store except for my roommates and me! They finally agreed to let us look at dresses quickly and what did I find? A whole lot of nothing! I could tell just by looking on the rack that I didn’t like anything I saw but my lovely roommates were determined to stay in the store until I at least tried one on. So I did, gross! Now I was tired, frustrated at the lack of choices and the indifferent sales people AND I felt like the Michelin man in the ugly dress. I couldn’t leave that store fast enough. On to store #2. We walked into the second store to find a smaller store but nicer people and more options. Sounds good to me! I was trash talking the first store in front of a sales person while pulling dresses to try, only to find out that, store #1 owns store #2! Haha… way to open my big mouth! Seriously though, who knew?
I learned something about my taste in dresses that day, it is completely different than that of my two roommates. I tried on a dress and loved it! I walked out and, well, didn’t get the reaction I would have hoped for. To them it was “all right”. Woohoo! That’s just what you want to hear when trying on what could possibly be your future wedding dress. Of course they found a dress that was “just perfect”, for them maybe. I like simple-simple which to them means BORING… There it was, they picked out a snowflake of a dress, beads all over, frilly this and frilly that. A huge beaded something right on the hip. I hated it the second I saw it but I tried it on just to please them. They loved it of course. Unfortunately none of the dresses were “the one” and none were in my price range so I left that day empty handed and without having made any progress in even deciding what type of dress to look for in the future. After that whole experience I was pretty sure I didn’t even want a wedding dress. Having new frustration towards the color white and tulle and more self-confidence issues than ever before, I would be wearing something different to my wedding. This was my attitude at least after that shopping day. There was one more dress shop that we hadn’t had time to stop by that day. I didn’t really care, to be honest, because I didn’t have the desire to go again and relive that wonderful experience I had with dress shopping before. However, I was off of work on Columbus Day and Chad suggested I go look just to get excited again. I went by myself just to take a little look. Just an errand among many for the day but I did stop by. I didn’t have an appointment so I didn’t know what to expect but to my surprise I was greeted right away and they actually welcomed by business, imagine that! I went to the racks and found many dresses to choose from. I hadn’t planned on shopping and trying on dresses by myself but they were so nice and helpful I decided to give it a go. I started out with five to try on and guess what… number three was the one! I tried others just to make sure but I kept going back to that third dress. So in thirty minutes and by myself with the help of the sales people I was able to find the dress I loved, I didn’t feel like a marshmallow and it was very reasonably priced! It didn’t work out the way I had always imagined but it ended perfectly!

Colors!

2008-11-25T13:49:00.000-08:00

So originally our colors were going to be black, white and red. I had a few people tell me that those were very traditional colors, which are fine, but they got the idea in my head to maybe do something different. I was going back and forth trying to decide when Chad, being the most awesome guy ever, suggested we use the purple I’ve been loving for a little while now. (You know how you might have your favorite color, mine still being red, but then you get this color that you don’t realize you love until you look at everything you’ve been buying or wanting the last couple of months and realize, wait, they are all grape purple…) So that’s where the purple came from. It’s funny because I thought that we were being original with our finalized color choices being purples, black and white. We aren’t. Chad’s cousin is getting married two weeks before us and their colors are plum, black and silver… WAY different than our purples, black and white, right?

Bloggerific!

2008-11-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

Ok so I have seen many cute couples’s blogs lately and after getting requests from more people than you would think, here it is! The blog that is everything Chad and Elizabeth!

This really is good for us to start now anyways. You see, we are engaged to be married January 10th, 2009 in the St. George Temple. It’s so exciting! Wedding plans are full swing and I just can’t wait until the big day!