"Now show me something pretty..."

I love pretty things. Whether it's a pretty flower, a pretty dress or a pretty necklace. The list goes on and on. My eyes and heart appreciate the beauty I get to see every day. So, I need to share my new find. Funky Vintage Lovely. Pretty pretty necklaces, barrettes, bookmarks, earrings and rings and pillows too.

 

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I feel pretty just looking at these beauties! 

Here in this diary

I am a person that needs to express my feelings. When I don't, bad things happen. Either I explode or I eat a million cupcakes and then explode.
One of the ways that I express myself is through writing. I love to write. Whether it's a blog post, like this, letter to my missionary, or even a grocery list. In a way it is all therapeutic for me. So, this week I decided that I needed to start writing in a proper paper journal again. I realized that there are many things that I find too personal to say on here, and that those things need to be expressed. Plus, I need to keep better track of my life. Already my mind is clearer and I don't feel as stressed or tense.

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What do you do to express your feelings? How do you deal with stress?

Maxi love

When trends are in their first stages, I tend to stay away. Skinny jeans, ballet flats, tunics, Ugg boots (still iffy on that one), and more. I swore over and over that I would not give in, or that I couldn't pull it off. And then a few months or years down the road, I think "Hmm, that's not that bad". And now, I have something new to add to that list. Maxi dresses. When they become popular a few years ago, I didn't like them. I thought I had to be a size two and six feet tall in order to have any chance of wearing one. But, this spring, I have been seeing them everywhere, so I decided to try one. And guess what? I am in LOVE. Head over heels. I will need one for every day of the week -- or month.

To keep it modest, just add a short-sleeved tee or a cardigan and you're set!

one; two (I bought this one); three; four

Tunes for Tuesday

On this rainy Tuesday, I want to share some favourite songs of the day. They are sure to get you smiling and possibly even up dancing away the rainy day blues. 

1. "Island in the Sun", Weezer

2. "Love Train", The O'Jays

3. "Vienna", Matt Costa

4. "Detroit '67", Sam Roberts

5. "Jungle Love", Steve Miller Band

6. "Sweet Disposition", The Temper Trap

7. "Magic" B.o.B feat. Rivers Cuomo

8. "Got My Mind Set On You", George Harrison

9. "Love Will Keep Us Together", Captain & Tennille 

10. "Lost in My Mind", The Head and the Heart

"I wish I could speak whale."

Because of the holiday today, we didn't have our usual ward FHE. So, tonight, we watched "Finding Nemo". It was awesome. Truly. I always forget how great that movie is, and then I watch it and I am reminded every single second. Many laughs were had. Thanks for joining me, friends (all three of you!).

Dude!

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A First

Today at work, I was talking with a co-worker of mine. She asked about my sister having a baby, and asked if I was looking forward to it. "Of course" I said, and then told her that besides being a mother, I have always wanted to be a aunt. Immediately, she asked if I was Mormon. That was a first. I don't believe I have ever been asked that out of the blue. She said that she had only heard someone say that if they were Mormon. I was kind of surprised by that. But then, thinking about it more, it makes sense. The gospel is so focused on the family that it would make sense that she would say that.

I am really so happy that I was raised in a home where motherhood was given the respect that it deserves. I can't wait to a mommy and spend every day with my favourite little ones. Dear little ones in heaven, mommy can't wait to meet you!

The Head and the Heart

Last night before I went to bed, I found out that Jim Parson (aka Sheldon Cooper) would be on Jimmy Fallon. Awesome, right? Yes. So, I recorded it. But, the best part of the story is this: The Head and The Heart was the musical guest! My friend introduced me to the band about a month ago, and I am so in love with them. My heart is still over joyed.
Please, please friends, do your ears and heart a favour. Listen to this song, and get the rest of the album too. Please.

You're welcome.

Institute and Candy

I have been waiting for today for quite a while now. A month to be exact. The Spring/Summer semester of Institute finally started! I have really missed going to Institute every week -- actually three times a week last semester -- and going without it for the past month has been pretty awful. Going to class with the girls tonight was extra special. This semester we are studying the talks from General Conference in April. I love it! I've said it once... or three times, and I'll say it again, this is going to be a good summer!
Also, mom and dad brought me some American candy from their trip to Montana. Mmm. Cookie Dough Bites! And Reece Peanut Butter flavoured Whoppers! Be jealous.

Oh, and Chick-O-Stick too! 

Thanks and poetry

After writing my last post, and thinking about what I am thankful for, I was reminded of one of my very favourite poems written by the wonderful E. E. Cummings. I remember the first I time I read this poem, almost two years ago in the beginning of my third year of university. My heart just melts every time I read it and I see beauty in every single word. I love the power of poetry.

i thank you God for most this amazing

i thank You God for most this amazing
day:for the leaping greenly spirits of trees
and a blue true dream of sky;and for everything
which is natural which is infinite which is yes


(i who have died am alive again today,
and this is the sun's birthday;this is the birth
day of life and love and wings:and of the gay
great happening illimitably earth)


how should tasting touching hearing seeing
breathing any-lifted from the no
of all nothing-human merely being
doubt unimaginable You?


(now the ears of my ears awake and
now the eyes of my eyes are opened)

Blessings

I am so blessed every single day. Whether it's an extra hour of work, a text from a friend or a sunny day, I am blessed. I try to recognize these blessings every day and be grateful for them, but sometimes it's hard. Sometimes I am focused on what I don't have, and what I want but can't have. I would love to say that I am always seeing the positive, but to be honest, I am not. I often have to stop and look for it very closely. I know that I am receiving blessings and miracles every day, but sometimes my clouded eyes don't see them. I let my vision become blurred by my trials and failures and forget that I am supposed to go through these tough times so that I can see the good. I know that there is opposition in all things, but some days I forget that along with opposition comes great things. I have a loving family, a supportive group of friends, a wonderful ward family, a superb extended family, a job that doesn't make me want to poke out my eyes (most days), hands and feet and legs and arms that work, ears that hear and eyes that see. I have talents that I can use to help others, and others have many more talents that help me.
Even though I complain a lot, and usually about the stupid things, I am happy with my life. And I am happy that I get to share my life with the best people. If you are reading this, I probably love you.
xo

{photo - David Dudley}

Can't Stop Partying

This last week was a week of parties. From Tuesday to Saturday, I had some really amazing nights with my best friends. Tuesday we had a Phase 10 party, which was of course good as always. I love it. Then on Friday, we had our first fire of the year -- and it was perfect. Candi had sugar and laughed the whole night. We also invented the newest fire side sensation -- the S'moreo. Try it friends, it's amazing. Perhaps the best part of the night was playing Catch Phrase by fire light. Skip-skip-skip.
Again, I just have to say, this will be a great summer! Dear friends, I love you!

A, B or C

I really, really want a dress from Shabby Apple this summer. Even though one dress would be a month's worth of my clothing budget (or more), it would be worth it. But, of course like with everything else in my life, I can't decide! I am not very good at making decisions, especially when there are so many good options out there. So, I am asking you, my trusty friends and readers to help me choose.

a,b or c

WHICH ONE?!

Summertime

I have a really good feeling about this summer. We are finally getting some much needed sun this week and my eyes are sore from the brightness (even after wearing my sunglasses) -- this is actually a great thing considering I was sure I would be wearing my winter jacket and boots year round.
Not only has the sun been shining, but I have had extra good times with my amazing friends this week. Driving home after an awesome FHE, blasting music ("I've got the magic in me!") while the teenaged boys laugh next to us, a really violent game of Phase 10 (violent in words, not in action). This is just the beginning of a great summer.
I love the sun. I love my friends. I love summer.

Mothers Day

Happy day to my favourite mommy! My mom has taught me so many things over the years, and she continues to teach me every day. She has helped me become the woman I am today and the woman I will continue to become.
Happy day mommy, I love you!

Thanksgiving 2007

Cut?

This week I have been itching to cut my hair. Yes, I know I have already come so far in growing it out. But some days I just want to chop it off. I like having short hair and it's been nearly two years since I last had it short. But then I remember that I like my long hair and want to keep growing it so that I can do this with my hair and this too.
Now I just need to wait for it to grow a few more inches. Waiting, always waiting.

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Wednesday Wisdom

Over the past few years, I have developed quite a love for baking. I love being creative, and baking and cooking is one of my many outlets for creativity. In my years of experience, I have learned a lot. One of those, I just learned in the last week and I wish that I had known about this trick years ago!
Have you ever made cupcakes and struggled with getting them all perfectly the right size without spilling the batter all over? I have. But, now I have found the solution! Are you ready to hear it?
An ice cream scoop! Yep, it's that simple. Just find yourself a good ice cream scoop with the spring-action handle and you are set. Just scoop up a little batter and then release it into the cups. Genius, right?
Finally all of the baking shows have done something for me besides make me crave sweets!

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30 Day Song Challenge: Day Five

Day five: A song that reminds you of someone

Most of the songs I listen to will remind me of someone, or somewhere. The one that I wish to share today is what Justin and I consider 'our song'. I can't listen to it without a face in my mind and a smile on my face.



And just for fun, let's throw in a little Jack Johnson too.

Tears on your yoga mat

This morning, while I was doing yoga (Yoga for the Warrior with Bob Harper), and at one point, he said something about letting it go, and just focusing on that pose at that moment, and right then and there, I started to cry -- like real tears, running down my cheeks. I don't know what it is about exercise, but it makes me emotional. Maybe it's because there are some emotions and thoughts that I tend to bottle up at times and pushing my body to limits makes me so vulnerable that it all comes out. I'm not sure.
But am I the only one?

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"Hate cannot drive out hate..."

Last night, one of my friends posted a great quote that said exactly what I have been thinking this week. And again this morning, another friend posted it, so I feel I need to share it.

‎"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate, adding deeper darkness to a night that is already void of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." - Martin Luther King Jr.

30 Day Song Challenge: Day Four

Day four: A song that makes you sad

I had a hard time finding a song that made me sad. I don't really listen to listen to songs with depressing stories (I'm not a fan of country), so it was harder for me to find one. But, this song does make me sad. Just listen. Your heart will definitely break for him a little bit.

30 Day Song Challenge: Day Three

Day three: A song that makes you happy


I'm pretty sure that it is impossible to be unhappy while listening to this song (and that impossibility doubles if you watch Joseph Gordon Leavitt dance too).

30 Day Song Challenge: Day Two

Day two: Your least favourite song

It's kind of silly, I think, to post a least favourite song. So, instead I am going to share the song most recently added to my library. I don't want to subject myself, or you my reader to a song I don't like.

30 Day Song Challenge: Day One

Day one: Your favourite song

I have many, many favourite songs. I have favourites from almost every decade, most genres, and it changes every day. I really can't narrow it down to one. So, how about three?

Macarons

I keep seeing french macarons everywhere these days! I love the fresh and vibrant look, and I'm pretty sure the taste would be good too. Have you ever made them? Do you have a good recipe? Or tips?
I really want to try them!

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A few things...

Hmm. Not much to say tonight. But, I will say that I believe in answered prayers, and in the many, many tender mercies that are extended to me each and every day. I have a Heavenly Father that knows me personally, and a Savior Jesus Christ who has made the ultimate sacrifice for me. I am feeling a lot of love this week.
Also, I love sweet potato fries. Mmm.

While We Wait

Most people say that the last six months of a mission are easier for the girl at home because time passes so quickly, but that has not been my experience so far. Actually, all in all waiting for a missionary is not easy -- ever.
I feel the need to express my feelings and experiences as of late. If you are contemplating waiting for a missionary, let me ask you to stop and think for a moment. If you are not ready for daily mood swings, many, many tears, doubting your feelings on a regular basis, anxiety, fear, moments of elation followed by moments of depression, then waiting for a missionary may not be for you.
I know that my experience is unique, and not shared by all. These past eighteen and a half months have been quite the roller coaster. Some days I am reminded how much I love Justin and that he is doing the right thing, and another six months is no big deal. But then there are other days when I wonder what I am waiting for, because I can't remember what it's like to be with him. Sometimes -- especially lately -- our pre-missionary courtship is a distant dream, so much so that I feel as if I have made it all up. Of course I know that I love Justin, and our relationship is incredibly strong, and very different from others. But, that doesn't mean that I am immune to doubt and a lot of worries. I find lately that I don't judge some girls as harshly as I used to who don't wait the full two years. It's hard! I know that I can make it another 166 days, but it's really wearing me down.
On a more uplifting note, my heart has been buoyed up by the love that people express to Justin. He was transferred this week, and almost immediately after I updated his facebook status to say that he would in Yucca Valley and training again, there were many comments wishing him luck and many saying that he would be missed in the La Sierra Ward (in Riverside). He's such a special guy, and I am happy to know that others see that too.

{June 2008}

Why can't all missions be eighteen months?!

Tunes for Tuesday

Some of my favourite songs today:

1. "Gravity", Sara Bareilles
2. "Forever", Chris Brown (I am not actually a Chris Brown fan, but  I heard this song on Saturday, and it always reminds of Jim and Pam's wedding on The Office, so I can't help but love it)
3. "Even Now", Dashboard Confessional
4. "Anything but the Truth", Jack Johnson
5. "My Favourite Book", Stars
6. "Someone Like You", Adele
7. "This is Not an Exit", Saves the Day
8. "A Stone Would Cry Out", Sam Roberts
9. "Crooked Teeth", Death Cab for Cutie
10. "Club Can't Handle Me", Flo Rida (feat. David Guetta)

Progress

After eighteen months of growing out my hair (see progress here, here, here and here), it is still getting longer! 

The Weekend

I have had a pretty fantastic weekend. The semester ended for me on Thursday and after this coming Thursday I am done until September! In celebration, I had one of the best weekends I've had in a really long time filled with friends, dancing, singing, Wii, slurpees, more dancing, singing, graduating from institute, great discussions, heart to hearts, and more.
I love my friends, I love the gospel, I love my life.

Also, I love to laugh, and I think you do too. So, do yourself a favour, and watch this video. You will not regret it.

Wishlist

I am planning to move out very soon (either within the next month, or by June) and with that has come a lot of internet browsing of stores, trying to decide what to buy for the essentials. I have been super indecisive about things like a new bed (I need a grown-up bed!), a new duvet or comforter (and deciding which of those to get), and all of that good stuff.
Here are some things topping my list at the moment:

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Giveaway!

Who doesn't love a giveaway? If you don't, stop reading now. If you do, keep reading!
My dear far-away friend, Laura has a giveaway today! A super cute giveaway.
Check it out here.

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And follow her too, I know she loves followers! She always has something to say. Also, she's pretty rad because she's a Beth middle-namer too.

The Plan

I have been losing my motivation to stay in school very quickly. I'm not sure if it is because of other things that I am going through, or because I have been so unsure about what I want to do once I graduate. My dream has always been to be a mom, so having an education was not about getting a job and making money, it was about learning and bettering myself. But, with about a year left in my degree left, and other changes coming, I am not motivated to stay.
However, I realized that whether or not I use my degree professionally, I need a plan in my head. And here's the plan: to be a teacher. If I could, I would really love to teach. I found out that after I am finished this degree (my B.A.), I can go into a two-year B.Ed. After I graduate next year, I will take a year off (maybe) and then reevaluate and go for my B.Ed and become a teacher. Whether or not I actually do that, I need a plan. And I feel really good about it.
Just thought I would share.
xo

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Smile!

Remember when I talked about General Conference, and how great it was? And the funny kid who turned around and smiled at the camera at the end?
This is what I was talking about:

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Thanks, Mandy for sharing these posters with me!

Tunes for Tuesday

Today as I was walking to the train station downtown, yummy froyo in hand, listening to my music I felt that today, my favourite tunes of the week needed to be shared.
Ready?

1. "Rolling in the Deep" - Adele (and the entire '21' album)
2. "Your Song" - Ellie Goulding (one of my all-time faves, and she sings it beautifully)
3. "Who Knows Who Cares" - Local Natives (Thank you for the recommendation, Andrew!)
4. "Set Fire to the Third Bar" - Snow Patrol feat. Martha Wainwright (I cry nearly every time I hear this song)
5. "Warning Sign"- Coldplay (You can never go wrong with a little Coldplay)
6. "Our House"- Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young (I listen to this song at least once or twice a day)
7. "Dog Days Are Over" - Florence & The Machine (Currently my favourite solo dance party song)
8. "Inaudible Melodies"- Jack Johnson (Perfect cooking music)
9. "Because" - Cast of Across the Universe (The harmonies make my heart ache in the best way possible)
10. "Feels Good" - Matt Dusk (Always puts me in a good mood)

Now do your ears a favour and listen to something good!

Winning

They did it! My favourite team, UConn, won! Even though I heard it was a poorly played game (I missed the majority of it, because my ward's FHE tonight), I am pleased with the end result.

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ps. See you in exactly six months, Justin!

General Conference

Thinking about the weekend I have just had, and the opportunity I had to watch General Conference today with the rest of the world (including Riverside, CA), I am reminded of something Justin and I used to do when we were first dating. Because he lived three hours north, we didn't get to spend very much time together and spent most time texting or on the phone. So, we decided to have movie dates, where we would choose a movie that we both owned, and watch it at the same time so we could feel closer together. Watching General Conference while he was doing the exact same thing today, made me feel closer to him.  The first weekend is April is probably one of my favourite times of year. General Conference. A time where I am privileged to hear from the great leaders of our church. A time where I can receive answers to my questions. A time where I get to watch the same thing that Justin is watching. A time where I can stay in my PJs all of Sunday. 

Because I had to work all day yesterday, I wasn't able to watch the first two sessions of conference, so I was so excited for today. I loved every minute. I laughed, I smiled, I reevaluated, I cried. It was perfect. I received comfort, reassurance, and that little nudge to do better. 

And a bonus, I got to make brunch for some of the girls in my ward. It was pretty delicious. Whole wheat pancakes and yummy fruit. Yes, please! Oh, and lots of laughter. I love those girls! 

I wish we had General Conference every weekend, but maybe I wouldn't appreciate it as much if we did. 

ps. Did anyone else see the kid that turned around and smiled at the camera at the end of the last session today? 

To whom it may concern

Dear cold that has plagued my sinuses for the last few days, I expect you to be gone in the morning when I open my eyes again.
Thank you and goodnight.
Sincerely,
Kristi Beth

Dreaming

I am a dreamer (...but I'm not the only one). I have just had an epiphany of sorts, and have a new segment for my blog. My dreams. Not as in what happens in my brain during REM sleep, but what I long and wish for in life, things I want to accomplish or would just love the opportunity to do.
And as I am laying her in bed, browsing through Anthropologie's unique door handles and knobs, I was reminded of a dream of mine. I would love to have a B&B. This dream may have grown since watching the last few seasons of Gilmore Girls, where Lorelai and Sookie open the Dragonfly, but it actually started before that. I remember watching a commercial (I don't recall what it was for -- shocker), and the people in the commercial talked about their B&B. I remember one scene where the owner was making the bed. Maybe it appealed to me because I like cleaning clean spaces (void of clutter), or because they then made pancakes and I love pancakes. But, the idea of opening a home of sorts, making it my own and inviting others to come and have sleepovers all the time -- awesome, right?

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One Year, Six Months

Yesterday, we reached a huge milestone! Justin has been on his mission for eighteen months! It just boggles my mind that he has been gone that long! But also that it still feels like he has been gone for five years. It hasn't been getting easier (it's actually becoming harder in some ways), but I find that I am dealing with it much better than I was a year ago -- or maybe just differently?
Anyhow. Justin is home is six months! That's right. Six months! Suffice it to say I'm slightly anxious about his homecoming!

I feel like this shows how I feel right now. AHHH!

Thoughts for Tuesday

This morning, I woke up at least three times before I actually made myself get out of bed. Exhaustion and fatigue have plagued my body lately. This may be partly due to the extreme lack of sleep I experienced over the weekend, or because of my lack of motivation in life that I have been experiencing these past few months (I am still trying to figure that out).
Anyhow, on my way to class this afternoon, I was barely able to stay awake, and had difficulty focusing while I was meeting with my group for our project due in a few weeks. My group mates talked about things that didn't matter to me, were not relevant to my life. They talked about drinking Red Bull, and how they need it to write papers. I didn't join in on this part of the conversation because a) I don't drink Red Bull, and never have and b) I didn't feel like I was even part of the conversation.
Now, let's get to the point. After class, I had some extra time before my last class (Romantic Lit.) and as I felt my body dragging, I really wanted to just go home and sleep or just do nothing. But, I stopped at Jugo Juice, got a delicious mango smoothie and walked back to class, but this time I walked outside rather than just through the building. Sunshine and fruit are my energy drink. I am so happy to see sunshine today and really hope that spring can stay, because I need it to. I need sunshine in my life.
Now friends, do your spirit a favour. Eat some fruit, and catch some sun rays. I can guarantee it will lift them a little, or a lot.

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Minted

Sometimes I like to glance at wedding stuff. Okay, maybe it's a little more than a glance.... More like I can browse wedding ideas and decor for hours and hours.
Anyhow. One of my favourite sites right now is minted.com. They have amazing and unique wedding invitations that are to die for!
Today, I found this one. And just love it! Seriously, smitten.

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Amazing, right?

Strings

Two things you may or may not know about me.
One: I can play the bass guitar (though I haven't played in probably three years. Sorry, Sebastian).
Two: I have a deep, deep love for Mark Hoppus. I believe he was my first musician crush.
So, you can probably (though maybe not) imagine my slight (or a little more than slight) excitement when I found this lovely. I'm pretty sure I need this.

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Now they just need to make a pink one. I so love Mark's pink bass. 

So She Dances

When I came home today, I was not feeling great. My socks were wet. I was mad at the snow. I was hungry. Disappointed that the mailman showed me no love today.
So, I immediately took off my gross socks (seriously, one of my biggest pet peeves), put on my favourite sweats and had a piece of carrot cake (leftover from my ward's Relief Society activity on Saturday). That helped to beat the winter-won't-leave-blues. But, the real cure? A dance party in my kitchen. Music so loud I was sure I'd get a complaint from my neighbours.
Really, there are few things better than dancing just because you love the music. Definitely a great mood booster, and a way to shed a few calories too (especially because I have just over six months until you know who is home!).

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Bueller... Bueller...

I have a deep, deep love for Ferris Bueller, so you can imagine how I felt a little rush of joy when I saw this post this morning. I so need this!

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A boy?

Remember how I am going to be an auntie come August? Well, yesterday I found out that my sister is having a little boy! In August, I will have a nephew! From the time I found out that Marni was pregnant, I have been expecting it to be a little girl. I had many, many plans which included Audrey Hepburn movie marathons, dressing her up, buying her great baby books like Olivia, and just moulding her in my image. But now that I know that I will have a nephew, I have to change my outlook completely! I am so, so excited! But, it's still something to get used to and wrap my head around. With my nephew I can buy him awesome things like cute hats and little ties. He can tell me crazy stories (because let's face it -- little boys always have the best stories). I am just thrilled to be an auntie in almost four months. A new best friend is coming my way! 

I can't wait to dress the little guy up in rad clothes like this. Argyle is of course a must!

Hello, Good Friend

Do you hear that? That's the sound of sneakers on a gym floor, cheering crowds in stadiums, cheering in homes, heart rates going up second by second.
Friends, it's that wonderful time of year. Hello, March Madness!
I am so, so thrilled that my favourite team (UConn) and a few of my other favourites (Syracuse, BYU, Kentucky) are in the tournament this year, and so far doing well!

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I don't know how I feel about this...

I know Hollywood loves a good remake, but I'm really not sure how I feel about it. I'm already iffy on the whole remake of "Footloose" (Kevin Bacon IS Ren. No substitute!), so to find out that "My Fair Lady" is supposedly also on the list of upcoming remakes... I don't know where I stand. Yes, Carey Mulligan is adorable and a good actress, but Audrey IS Eliza Doolittle. 

What are your thoughts?

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Good Things to Come

I don't remember if I've shared this video before, but I need to share it today. Every time I see this one, I cry. It's just what I need. I hope it helps someone else today too.



xo

Help!

I am in need of some ideas for quick, easy, healthy snacks. I don't do well when I go more than a few hours without eating, and sometimes my semi-long days at school or a missed break at work make it hard for me to eat regularly. I also need ideas for snacks in between meals when I'm at home, or when I get my late night sugar cravings.
I need new ideas! So, friends, please. Share some wisdom!

Changing to grow

Moments of inspiration often come from the least likely places. For example, an episode of "Full House". I was just watching an episode, and something that Vicky (Danny's girlfriend who takes over Becky's spot on "Wake Up, San Francisco!") said just clicked, and helped me figure out some things. She said, "Without change, we can't grow."

I am preparing to make some pretty big changes in my life, and I'm pretty scared. When I think about them in a idealized sense, I am excited, and can't wait. But then I realize that those changes are coming really quickly, and will affect a lot of things. I know that I need to make changes in my life, because I need to grow, and I need to prepare for even bigger things like being a wife and a mother. But, I'm still experiencing a little bit of trepidation about the whole thing. I needed the reminder that changes can be good, and without them I can't progress and become the person that I want to be. 

So thank you for the ''aha-moment'', "Full House". 

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Apron

I mentioned that I made a stop at Anthropologie on the weekend. It was merely a gaze, really. But, I did find some lovely, lovely things and can't wait to go back when I actually have some cash in my pockets! One of my favourite items (besides this dress, which I have eyeing for a few weeks now), is this lovely apron. Every time I see it, I am overcome with a desire to curl my hair, put on my red lipstick and whip up a pie for my hubby. I so want to be a 50's mom.

I feel pretty just looking at it. Don't you? 

I need to make one for myself, because Candi 

reminded me that I can make my own for much, much less!

Spring, are you there? It's me, Kristi.

I am really itching for spring and summer to be here. The snow is still on the ground (though today's -4 was  a step in the right direction!), and I am tired of being cold. I want to see green grass, and blue sky. I want to need hourly applications of SPF 50. I want to be on the university campus, shepherding my little EFY kiddos around. I want to have picnics, and lay out in the sun for hours. I want to wear sunglasses. I want to wear flip flops! I want to be holding my baby niece (or nephew). I just want it to be summer! Or spring, I would accept spring temperatures right now.
Besides all the good things I have to look forward to this summer, I am also craving warm weather so that I can sport some of the new lines from my favourite shops. Like Shabby Apple. Have you seen the new dresses? They are amazing! Seriously. I have been checking out their dresses religiously for over a year now, and have decided to take the plunge and purchase one this year! But there are so many to choose from! Like this one. And this one. And this one.  And this one. Oh, and this one too. And I am still super in love with this one.
Which would you choose?

(my current favourite. Love the colour!)

Smiles

I had a pretty great weekend, and a good start to the week so far. Rather than bore everybody with the long details (or let's face it -- for the sake my fingers), I will just touch on the most important bits that made me smile.

- Spending time at Chinook with the girls before "Battle of the Bands". Dear Anthropologie, I love you.

- Hanging out with my favourite kiddos, watching "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles", and tickle fights with Jakey and Ty. 

- Going to the temple -- it always refreshes me.

- Games night times two.

- Another wonderful e-mail from my favourite missionary.

- Realizing that Justin only has five transfers left! 

- Cupcakes (topped with whipped cream and strawberries -- so healthy, right?!)

- Going to the gym! My body is pretty happy with me today.

- Eating a delicious -- seriously delicious -- spinach and chicken salad.

-Watching PVR'd episodes of "Big Bang Theory". Sheldon Cooper, I also love you. Bazinga!

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What made you smile today?

Addicted to Love

I've said it many, many times, but I really love being in love. I love knowing that someone that I care about is thinking about me, while I am also thinking about him. I love knowing that someone cares about me and knows what I need and is willing to do that for me. After a conversation with a good friend last night about how much the Apostles love their wives (Elder Holland's talks from the last few conferences just make my heart melt when he talks about his wife), and Lauren's post today have reminded me that love is grand. Love is just... no words. I am just so lucky. I'm pretty much addicted to being in love, and I will never give up the habit. I wish that everyone could know what it felt like to be in love, and be loved.

(only seven months until I can finally share some new pictures of me and my guy!)

Cold as Ice

It is March and I am cold, cold, cold! It shouldn't be this cold now -- or ever, as far as I am concerned. In my mind, winter has its place in December, and that is about it. I can handle the -10 or -15 if I have to, but anything below that is too much -- especially with that awful wind chill. I keep hoping that maybe because heart resides in sunny California, my body will feel that warmth. Not luck yet.
Despite the gross weather, there were some good things that happened today.
a) Snail mail from my favourite missionary
b) Watching "Dr. Horrible" on my way to and from school
c) Reading 2 Nephi 4
And more. Life is good -- but cold.
Sun, please come out tomorrow and bring Spring with you! Please and thank you.

xo

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