The Orton Life

Little Miss London

2011-04-02T12:50:00.001-07:00

She's here! well, she arrived almost three months ago and i am FINALLY blogging about this gorgeous baby of mine. I figure since she made me wait so long, this could wait also.

London was born January 12, 2011 at 12:38 A.M.

Birthing Story:(you can skip if you want to)
I went in on Monday the 10th and they started my induction. At one in the morning my water broke and contractions started. Around 6 in the morning they gave me pitossin and then my contractions REALLY started to get going...and then they just kept going and going and going. I really wasn't making any progress and so finally 24 hours later and only at a 6 the doctor decided I had gone long enough and needed to go to surgery. This was pretty much my worst fear ever and i am sorry to all who were in the room for my nervous breakdown of sorts.
Not even 20 minutes later, London arrived via c-section and was absolutely adorable. Her cheeks were HUGE and she was perfect. She weighed in at 9lbs 15 ounces and 21 inches long.
When the doctors took her temperature, she had a fever and they worried that because i was in labor so long with my water broken that she might have an infection. After i came out of recovery i went into the room, held her for a little bit and then they took her to the nicu. When i arrived the next morning to see her, she was all hooked up and had an IV in her head,(needless to say, I bawled my eyes out at my precious baby all hooked up)
They decided to do a full dose of antibiotics which meant seven days in the hospital. Those were the longest seven days of my life and when she finally arrived home, things felt complete. Since then she has been a perfect baby and is adored by her parents. She is our favorite thing in the world and love every minute of her.

Now for the fun part: Pictures of our Little Lady. ( a little out of order)

London and Mom in the NICU

The Day we got to take her home
MY BIRTHDAY!

My little one all hooked up

One Large child

A tired, worn out, sleepless, exhausted but happy Family

For a Fancy Five Year Old

2010-09-19T17:42:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my lovely Talia. I cannot believe she was born five years ago. She is such an amazing little girl and her Aunt Courtney and Uncle Brigham adore her. (seriously how could you not. Look at the girl) We are sad we can't be there for her birthday but know she will have tons of fun. Love you Miss Talia.

Life is good

2010-09-02T21:57:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how long it has been since i have posted something on here. So much has happened in our little family of two. i can't even think where to start.

Brigham graduated from school. (or so we thought) and so we after much prayer and no answers we decided to move to Bakersfield so better our chances of getting a job in California. Little did we know we would find out our answer AFTER we moved. Everyone was amazing and we always had a place to stay. When we couldn't find a job and Bakersfield was getting the best of us, we decided to turn again to prayer. Soon, we found out Brigham had never really graduated, he was missing an English class. (we found out later that many people in his class had this happen to them..annoying) So we decided that we would go back to Idaho.

I was so upset and was not ready for that. But when we both got our jobs back and a house within weeks of each other we knew our prayers were answered and it was just a different answer than we had expected. So after a fun filled summer in Bakersfield with family and friends we have moved BACK to Pocatello and Brigham is finishing up some general classes this semester before hopefully entering the engineering program in January.

If things couldn't get any crazier, we found out in May we were going to add a little one to our plans. We were so excited and it was the hardest thing ever not to tell right away. But we held out and were so relieved to finally tell everyone.

Our Little Miss London will be arriving in January. Due date is January 4th but if I'm anything like the rest of my family we will add a couple weeks to that. We are so excited and our house is filled with pink. We already adore this little girl and can't wait to meet her.

We have been blessed so much these past couple of months. At times we are overwhelmed with how things turn out for us. We know it is through prayer and through doing whats right that we are being blessed. I can't even put into words how happy we are.

Although we didn't end up where we expected, where we are is right where we are supposed to be. I have an amazing life. A sweet husband, a loving family and soon it will all get even better. Life is good.

Marriage:Year One

2010-01-10T17:59:00.000-08:00

“I love being married. It's so great to find that one special person you want to annoy for the rest of your life.” -Rita Rudner
So we made it. The first year is over and let me tell you. it was NOT the easiest year ever. We had our ups and downs and then we had our really big ups and downs. It's funny how the person you love the most is the person who drives you the most crazy. Everyone told me the first year would be the hardest, but thinking about it...this is harder than having a baby? or harder than having a toddler and a baby? or seven kids?? Maybe i should be grateful for the quiet times or the take off on a dime abilities. For now i get all the sleep i need and not many worries. I'm sure i will look back when babies are screaming and the mortgage is due and relish the first year. But for now...second year, here we come. (Pray for us not to kill each other.) LOVE YOU BRIG!

Our First Date
Wedding Day
Temple
Family
One of My Favs

Christmas in California

2010-01-10T17:33:00.000-08:00

Christmas was great this year. i was so glad to be out of the freezing winter of Idaho and go to the still kinda cold weather of Bakersfield. We pretty much did nothing the whole time we were there which was GREAT! Just spending time with family and my adorable niece and nephew who i "ABSOLUTELY ADORE" (name that movie Candice). it was so nice seeing my family and getting away for a while. We also got to stay in Vegas which was super fun. When you are married and Mormon, Vegas isn't too exciting so mostly we stuffed our faces and watched TV. all in all, a good vacay. it had it's not so lovely times...cruise canceled on account of no identification(sounds like our wedding.) but we pulled through(close call though) an decided to go to Vegas instead. There will always be boats to gain 10 extra pounds on right? hope everyone had a lovely Christmas and new year. Welcome 2010!

Our Very cute Purple Christmas Tree
(Brigham's not a huge fan of themed trees each year, but hopefully he will be convinced. ideas on next year?)
Happy New Year
Brigham being a fatty. (alright we both were..vegas buffets are killer)

View from our room inside luxor. 21st floor was not my favorite.

Brigham Nye the Science Guy

2009-11-08T10:12:00.000-08:00

Well the semester is almost over and brigham is starting to really get into the hard stuff. they just started learning about optic fibers,(don't ask me..i have no idea) and so everyday they have to wear these spiffy little numbers in class. Well, i finally realized i do listen to what my mom says-"marry a nerd, because they will never leave you and you'll always have money." i'm not exactly sure when that money part comes in but oh are we looking forward to it.

mine's cuter

2009-11-04T18:35:00.000-08:00

i wish i had a fun life to capture and post about but i don't so just be jealous that this cute little girl with the black eye isn't your niece.

i suck at this

2009-08-16T20:07:00.000-07:00

With summer coming to a close, school starting, and life starting to get busy i thought i should probably blog about the past couple months before it gets too crazy. Summer has treated our little Orton family well. Brigham took summer school and thankfully passed and I worked at the daycare, spending my days taking kids to the park, movies on tuesday and swimming at the pool. We moved into our adorable new house that we finally got settled into and have spent time with family and friends.
We spent the fourth of July weekend in Oregon for Brig's family reunion and had so much fun meeting new family and hanging out. Truthfully, i was really nervous to go because i didn't know anyone and Brigham hadn't been in forever. We bought a tent at a yard sale..our first tent for $5 and headed out on the eight hour drive. It was my first time to Oregon and it is gorgeous. The only thing i didn't like was having someone pump our gas for us. How much do you tip a guy who slip your card for you and pressed a button? Anyway, the weekend was great and it was nice spending time with Brig's parents and brother Gerrit. We were so excited to use our new tent and when we finally set it up, realized that it's a little too small and so after the Nichols family reunion realized we needed to be in the market for a new one., but all in all, a good trip.
We also got to go to California for the Nichols reunion and Stacie and Zachs wedding. We had so much fun hanging out at the beach, swimming and visiting family. Brigham thought he would get a wetsuit to surf with, but when surfing plans fell out, decided he would just swim in his new suit. My dad told him they are pretty hard to get into, but Brigham had to idea just how difficult it was. After almost a half hour of trying to squeeze into it he gave up and so Logan tried to get it on. Three plastic sacks later the wet suit was on and Brigham's wet suit was no longer his. (of course i took pictures of all of this, how could i miss logan prancing like a girl in a wet suit, but they are all on my parents computer so pics to come later)
On Friday my parents took us to Knottsberry farm with the some of our family and we spent the day riding roller coasters and watching gay magic shows. (sorry krista...they really were) After a couple of really scary rides...i decided that maybe i wasn't such a friend of rides and chickened out on a couple. Brigham of course rode every ride and with no emotion in his face whatsoever says he enjoyed it. As i screamed bloody murder, he just smiled or looked on. Mason and Logan decided to try and scare my mom on every ride and try and jump out of their seats.
Saturday was the wedding and Brigham and i got to go back to the same sealing room that we were sealed in. It was so amzing to go back and remember how we felt that day seven months ago. (it has gone by so fast!) Stacie looked gorgeous and their reception was amazing.
Finally we had to make the trek home, back to work, back to life..but we are looking forward to this school semester and being closer to graduation. It was so fun to see family and friends and can't wait to see everyone again soon!
(and hopefully i can be better at this and maybe learn to use my camera more often)

i said i loved you, but i lied

2009-06-14T15:31:00.000-07:00

In a day where music consists of lyrics about Poker Faces and Kissing Girls and singers who have no talent whatsoever, I have to say that one thing i am so grateful to my parents for is my taste in music. Not so much now, but back in the day, music was on all the time in our house, but not just any music...this was GOOD music. Music from people like Wilson Philips, Boyz to Men, Toni Braxton and my all time favorite, Michael Bolton. I don't know if it's the hair or the way he sings...but i LOVE this guy. Many won't agree, maybe because of the hair or the way he sings, but listen to his songs once more and i assure you that your hearts will be changed. Lately, i can't help but put in his music and remember our old house and dancing to "When a man loves a Woman, and Time Love and Tenderness" Go now..listen and indulge in some good music.

Some of My Top favorite Artists and their Best Songs(in no particular order)
1. Mariah Carey- Fantasy
2. TLC- Creep
3. Boyz to Men- End of the Road
4. Wilson Philips-release Me
5. Ace of Base- don't turn around
6. Tupac- changes AND Keep Ya head up
7. Donna Lewis- I'll Love you always forever
8. Bone thugs N Harmony- Crossroads
9. Whitney Houston-I will always love you
10. cranberries- dreams

oh there's millions more..but these are just some i thought of..if you know any good ones let me know!

Happy Birthday Candice

2009-06-14T14:56:00.000-07:00

Happy birthday to my partner in crime (gay much?) Seriously though...i don't think i would have made it this far without you and although that's not saying much seeing how we are doomed to live in hell together..at least we'll look better than everyone else and know why everyone is there faster than everyone else. So Happy Birthday to you, can't wait to see you and good luck on Jeopardy!!!!! DO IT DO IT DO IT DO IT!!!!! love you.
shnee

A penny for your thoughts

2009-05-18T21:18:00.000-07:00

My Mom Always says "watch your pennies and the dollar will take care of themselves" Someone should mention this to our Jcrew clad president.

A mother is a person who seeing there are only four pieces of pie for five people, promptly announces she never did care for pie. ~Tenneva Jordan

2009-05-10T04:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Mothers day to all the moms in my life! I feel so blessed to have so many women who are just perfect examples of motherhood.

to my mother in law Jaymee- Thank you so much for raising my amazing husband. He is such a hard worker, he is patient and kind and loving. I know he gets this from you and the way you have raised him. Its so amazing to see the way your boys treat you. They worship you and in return are so kind and sweet to their wives. Thank you so much for all you do, for your love and support and your Wednesday night hang outs. It has made moving away from my own mom a little easier to bear.

To My Grandma Urmston- thank you so much for always being there for me. I can't express my gratitude for all you've done for me. I have been on so many trips with you and i miss the days when we sang Ragtime and Grease in your car and blueberry muffins with crumble topping. Your testimony has always been such a blessing and example in my life and I am so excited for you to come home.

Grandma Stumbaugh- I am so grateful for the time i had to spend with you. You are an amazing woman and i will forever miss your smile and kindness. It's so true when uncle peter says he would trade a million bucks for a five. those meant so much and i cannot believe how you could remember everyones names let alone birthdays. You are so missed, but the example you set for your family and the choices you made will let us be together forever. Thank you.
grandma Nichols- i will never forget the time when we weeded the garden for three hours because thats how long "Gone with the Wind" was and we wanted to watch it. You have always been an example of hard work and I'm grateful for all you do. for all the Genealogy and the trips back and forth all over the country to spend time with all your grandchildren.

To my sister- nicole, you are the most amazing mom. You are so patient and you have the have the most beautiful children in the world. You are amazingly gorgeous and smart and kind. i hope one day i can be close to the mom that you are.

To My Beautiful Mom- Words cannot express the love i have for you. I cannot believe how much i lucked out. you are the smartest, most patient, funny, talented person i know. You have seven beautiful kids(who all have great self confidence) and have always been there for every single one of us. Thank you for all the times you listened to me, for all the late night talks, for the drives and for the time you spent with me. You are such an example to everyone around you and especially to your kids. it's so hard not to be able to hang out with you all the time, but i know your just a phone call away. Thank you for everything mom, thank you for supporting me, thank you for teaching me, thank you for loving me. I love you. I'm sorry I'm not there to ruin crepes and give baking powder instead of powdered Sugar, but the song below reminded me so much of us so hope you like it. Happy Mothers Day!!

There are so many other mothers in my life that i am so grateful for. All of my aunts and cousins and friends, you are all such amazing examples of beautiful women and mothers. I hope i can be amazing moms like you one day. I hope you have an amazing day. There are so many people that look up to you and love you.

Happy Mothers Day!

Schools out for the Summa'

2009-05-09T14:48:00.000-07:00

Well...he did it. Brig passed all his classes this semester and we couldn't be more relieved. Last semester with the wedding plans and everything it got a little chaotic and he was racing to get stuff done during finals. He got great grades and we were excited for next semester when things would be calmer. Yeah right. This semester was dang hard for him and he stayed after school almost everyday and said this was the hardest semester so far. He did some pretty cool things, like build his own radio and make a digital countdown clock. I had no idea what he was talking about when he explained physics to me and one day came home with his theory on blackholes...(my eyes just glazed over while he tried to make me understand..didn't work) But it's all over now and he has two weeks of vacation before going back to summer school. He is not very pleased with this, but i promised him vacations this summer so he won't be too miserable.

We both are working at restaurants right now, so we kind of have a little competition on the weekends to see who can bring home the most tips. all in good fun, but the urmston in me gets way upset when he wins and he tries to tell me that he'll give me some of his money so we tie. This reminded me of the time when we played the chocolate bar game with his family. The one where you have socks on your hands and eat a piece of chocolate bar before someone rolls sixes or something. Well, we played with his family and brig for the life of him could not get a piece. Well his mom decided to deliberately not roll the right numbers so he could get a piece(the difference between his family and mine) I was so mad that he didn't play right and still got a piece of chocolate. Insignificant i know, but if you have a competitive streak in you, like every Urmston, you know why i was mad. Tonight in Pocatello, we have Idaho State Graduation and Prom for three high schools, so we will who does better. (Probably him, but a girl can dream)
Also on Monday starts my new job as the head of the preschool curriculum at A Beautiful Child in Pocatello. I'm way excited both for teaching again and not having to work graveyard shift anymore. I need some sun in my life. so if anyone has any ideas on how to run a preschool let me know. Especially songs that you know or have made up...it would help a ton!

Idaho-Life in its Simplest Form

2009-04-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

well, not much happening here in Pocatello. Brigham and i spent the week in Blackfoot because his mom was gone and so we stayed to keep his grandma company and watch their adorable puppy Chloe. It was fun to spend time with his grandma and see all the old pictures of brig's mom and family. Also got my fill of fox news for the year. funny though, almost a whole week was spent there and we feel no need for a dog..cable yes..but not a dog. Interesting.

Easter was way fun. Brigham and i got to make dinner and it turned out amazing. I was way impressed with his pineapple ham glaze...yeah..it was good. Also after a week of begging my cousin Ellie to steal a scotcharoo from her mom and having to do a pedicure in a campsite to get a bite of one(this was whole week ordeal with my whole family trying to get her to give one to us. I don't know if we really even wanted one..just wanted to see if she would ever get us one...ok we wanted them) I finally just made them. But alas, not as good as aunt Jaime's. I'm sure the special ingredient of love had something to do with them and how at Leo Carrillo everything tastes amazing, even with a little bit of sand. But easter was good and Brig (and i) got the third season of Arrested Development, props to Candice for finding the best show ever on sale. got to love target. we are way sad the shows over, but Lost will pull us through.

I also got to go see a play with my friend Stephani last night called, "power in his Touch." It was about the life of Christ, tied in with the whole story of the woman in the temple. you know the line, "ye who are free of sin shall cast the first stone." It was interesting to see her whole story and the music was so good. Also super nice to have friends in this new place! Thanks Steph!

Well, Brig is almost done with this semester, about two weeks to go and he is doing great! He says it's really hard, but he is so good at doing all his homework and studying for tests(so not like his wife) He has the great opportunity to go to summer school this semester(hoping he will read this and feel that way:)) and then after that, just two more semesters until graduation! Crazy, but it will be interesting to see where we will be.

Lot's of summer reunions this summer, so hopefully we will see you all soon, but between both sides of my family and brigham's family reunion, we will see what happens. Busy summer, busy lives, but we love it. Love you all!

momsaysihaveto

2009-04-14T21:28:00.000-07:00

Oh the joys of sisterhood. the above title...although not the jaw dropping heading my sister challenged me too, is the name that shows up when my partner in crime(leo carrillo wedding anyone??) sister calls. It used to read something much worse which i am afraid to write due to family members that read this, but lets just say it rivals any she can come up with ( i know unfair right..if you really want to know..message me) but one day she called and my mom saw and flipped and told me "i had to change it right away" thus the new phonebook name and title "momsaysihaveto." while thinking of all the shocking headers i could put i found myself laughing at all the things my sister and i have done, said, and been ashamed of together. She taught me so many things growing up like how to use words correctly..look up the meaning of "peruse" people, to love books, especially ones that include claudia, stacey and other babysitters, to always be beautiful and to always enjoy a good gossip fest. (seriously...there is nothing wrong with it, don't hate) i miss her tons and was so glad to spend a whole week with her and the rest of my family. She's the most gorgeous person i have ever met. she's so incredibly smart and talented and strong. I admire her so much and although I know she sometimes gets annoyed with the calls i make late at night and all the "loves of my life" i had to tell her in detail about, i know she's always their to lend a listening ear and sometimes when my mom has her back turned..a middle finger to set me straight.

your real A sister for life

idaho...no Udaho

2009-03-12T16:37:00.000-07:00

thank you urban outfitters for that classy t-shirt saying. Well a little update on our little life. Marriage is great...they say the first year is the hardest and twice as hard if you are pregnant. Thank the lord I'm not. Despite getting used to living together and having to deal with fun newly wed changes such as not touching some one's feet when they are sleeping and learning to cook for someone who's favorite dinner is Hamburger Helper (really?? because I've never had hamburger helper in my life) it's great. We are having lots of fun and i find new things about him every day that i have come to love. Brigham is doing AMAZING is school, which makes both of our lives easier. We are totally different students though. He always seems to have homework and i try to tell him to do your homework in the next class and that classes homework in the class after that, but apparently some people actually listen to college professors. Guess i better jump on that boat (which I'm trying to do asap!) We live in a (insert adjective here)apartment/house/triplex that we are still getting used to since we only have five minutes of hot water per shower and as my dad so kindly put it "anyone who is taller than me is going to have a hard time on that toilet" (you have to sit to the side) but i know it will be great memories, but for now i long for a steaming shower. Especially since it's STILL snowing. come on mother nature...pretty sure we were supposed to have spring three weeks ago. The Idahoans say it gets soooooo hot in the summer(please...90 is not hot) but i also freeze at 60 so there we go. Other than that...despite all my complaining I love being married to Mr. Brigham, but i still sometimes wake up feeling like i am supposed to be back in salt lake and on my way to Challenger. It's funny, but sometimes unnerving. And although i love it here..i cannot WAIT to go to California in two weeks for Leo Carrillo. Brigham is sooo mad that he can't go, but i promised him i would call him every night and let him know how much sun i got. (Hopefully that doesn't jinx me and it rains the whole time) but even if it does, i still will be breathing that Malibu air and i cannot wait!!

Thanks for calling DirectTV, How can i help you?

2009-02-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

Pocatello is currently 28 degrees, Snow is on the ground and I have finished one week of training for CONVERGYS. Why someone invented call centers...i don't know. I hate calling those places because the people are retarded and it takes years to get through. Now..because of the current economic slummpage, I get to be one of the ever so friendly and helpful customer service representatives. I used to think..they could never pay me enough to do that..well, bite my tongue and since no one else is paying ANYTHING..I am working for Convergys who is hired by DirecTV and get to help people sign up for DirecTV, billing questions, order PPV, and every so often enjoy the ranting and raving of the human being at it's finest. I feel lucky to have a job, because it is so hard to find one here, but the people that work there are definitely not the cream of the crop. I try hard just to sit through the training without getting noticed and ask minimal questions and not stare at the girl whose face is TORE UP from meth use and continually comes to class looking that she just injected it ( I only notice the signs because of"Intervention") but it's hard not to judge. Hopefully, I'll make it through the training and at least be able to tolerate the job. Today i had to listen to a 28 minute phone call from a man of color who continually commented on how DirecTV is the reason Beyonce has so much money and "why can't we take from Beyonce to feed the poor?" (Direct words) At this point i tried not to be racist but after he said Tina fifty trillion times in a row, all i could think about was Mason asking if he could have some mike n ikes. ( *Grace Kelley, grace Kelley grace Kelley) I guess all i really wrote this for was to vent about the current job situation, but I'm sure it will work out. For anyone who has direcTV and calls into customer service if you happen to hear, "Thank you for calling DirecTV, this is Courtney. How may i help you? " please be advised that it may be me and proceed with kindness (please!)

*see

The Day I Married my Best Friend

2009-01-21T15:00:00.000-08:00

Well, we sealed the deal..FINALLY!!! I couldn't have asked for a more perfect wedding day. The Temple was absolutely gorgeous and even though Bakersfield was fog central, Los Angeles was a spectacular 75 degrees. I was so grateful for my family that was able to come. Being married in the Temple was the most amazing day ever and having my family there made it even better. I don't think i have ever in my life been filled with such sheer happiness and I am so thankful for everyone who made it happen. Non of this could have happened without my mom and i am eternally grateful for all the hard work she put into the wedding. It was gorgeous and she did sooo much to put it all together. Also her Young Women's presidency put the reception together and I have never been to a reception that looked so gorgeous, i know i am probably bias but seriously, it was BEAUTIFUL. I probably should stop this post because it's sounding like seriouslysoblessed@blogspot.com but it was the best day of my life and i got to marry my best friend for eternity. Thank you everyone who helped! I am so grateful for all of you.

Love you all,
Mrs. Orton

Murphy's Law

2009-01-05T13:38:00.000-08:00

Because there's a wedding, because it's mine and because it's this week, this law of "anything that can go wrong, will" definitely has played a huge part. Let's start from the top shall we? ( You might want to grab some popcorn, tissues, or go to the bathroom before you read this, depending on your mood) It's September and Brigham has asked me to marry him. I of course, said yes and the hell began. I swore not to be a Bridezilla, but alas, one who tells themselves not to become something usually does. I couldn't decide what invites i wanted and was so nervous to create my own. Finally i broke down and ordered the once I designed and they turned out great, but i was more than three weeks behind schedule. I sent out most as fast as i could and i told myself that the ones i didn't get too, i would try to get to as soon as possible. Well, its a week before the wedding and i still have some to send out. Next, with all the excitement of getting married comes the responsibility of figuring out how to do that. " We need to set a time at the Temple" says my mom. Well i call and they need my recommend number. Oops...so that Sunday I go to see the Bishop. Great. Bishop recommend done...Stake presidents out of town. OK wait one more week then. Next Sunday....Stake president has broke his back and won't be here for interviews. GREAT! Counselor to Stake President calls and conforms it A-OK to give me interview. Sweet, i now have my recommend needed to set the time for our sealing. Cancel that, Temple is closed for two weeks for cleaning. Date reopening: January 6th. That's five days before I'm supposed to get married. Luckily for me, no other Procrastinating Bride can get a time either. In order to get married you also need a marriage license. OK...not a problem,. Give them some blood, sign a paper. Oh, there's no more blood tests..nice. Oh wait....we have to do it in person with the groom to be?? The groom who is in Idaho and won't be here until three days before our wedding? WHAT? you need government issued photo ids?? Brigham says this is not a problem..Courtney says that a week before she moved back to California she had her car broken into and her wallet with all her ID stolen. (insert tears..like the flood of moses size tears) Call DMV and in the hoity toitiest of voices i hear "Oh we don't do picture ID receipts and it takes up to 60 days to get your license in the mail." (insert emotional breakdown) Mom to the rescue- calls Kern County Clerks office and they will take my school id. Brigham can't find it. Call LDSBC for replacement. "We don't keep those photos on hand" (insert blank stare) "Look in your car" says the groom to be. The car that i decided had enough gas to make it to the gas station before i had to babysit. Mom to the rescue AGAIN! So now i sit here, contemplating how to get a picture ID or how to forge some type of government issued Photograph. I don't recall knowing anyone in the black market business, but I'm seriously thinking about calling people who might. Also wondering how long my mom is going to take this before she comes to the breaking point of just telling her unorganized irresponsible daughter to figure it out myself and then having to tell Brigham that we can't even elope because I DON'T HAVE IDENTIFICATION!!!! (Insert tear streaked, emotionally exhausted Bridezilla) Hopefully i will get married on Saturday, PRAY i can get married on Saturday. And no, seriously...if you know someone who can get me a Government Issued Photo ID...just let me know ASAP! Thanks (insert pleading and begging for some type of help from soemone above)

Old Man Turns the Big 2-7!

2008-12-04T16:49:00.000-08:00

Brigham's 27th birthday was yesterday! Though he wasn't very excited and kept reminding me that he was turning 28 not 27, i was super excited. Birthdays weren't a big thing in my house, but i somehow got the overly social gene and i love any excuse for a party. I couldn't be there, so we are celebrating this weekend with his family and i am super excited! He called me last night saying he was alone and watching "Enchanted." ( I think he just put the movie on and said he was watching it to make me feel bad because he hates that movie more than anything, especially when i sing along with it) But in honor of my cute boy here's a little schpeel about him.

Brigham is super quiet and so when we first met, I thought he was way stuck up because he wouldn't talk to anyone. Luckily, he gave me a chance and we became really good friends.

When we finally started dating, he decided to put me in his phone as "Barely Legal" because i was 18 and he always teased me for how young i was. I then decided to put him in my phone as Old Man (hence the title) and although i am past the legal age of 18 i relish in the fact that he will always be Old Man.

Brigham is excellent at listening. I know my parents will be glad that soon they will no longer ev er have to hear about, boys, heartbreaks, or endlessly long pointless phone calls because Brigham will always be there. Lucky for them, but hope he can stand it. Luckily, he is also very patient with me, which is something that my dear mother has had to deal with for 20 years. She always did, but I'm sure on January 10th, she'll take a deep breath of air and some stress will disappear.

Brigham loves his family and love the gospel. It's so comforting to know that it will never be a fight to go to church and that my family will be together forever. He is so sweet to his mom and Grandma and is so polite and sweet to me. He cares about people and never says a bad thing about anyone and has to remind me constantly to stop saying things. (oops)

HE is an amazing person and I am so lucky that I get to be his wife soon. We have so much fun together and there is never a dull moment. He loves me unconditionally and I will forever be grateful to him for all he does.

Happy Birthday Briggy!! I love you!!

Over the stateline and through Vegas, to Bakersfield we go.

2008-11-23T14:09:00.000-08:00

In t-minus three days i will be heading home to the most beautiful place in the world. No it doesn't have crystal clear ocean water, or majestic mountains or even air that's OK to inhale, but to me Bakersfield is home. I can't wait to see my niece and nephew, my parents, my brother and sisters and aunts and uncles. My family is the most beautiful thing in the world, and because they live in Bakersfield, land of raised trucks and Chain restaurants galore, this is the most beautiful place in the world. AND I COMING BACK!! Brigham and i leave Wednesday after work and make the trek. We will be there early Thursday morning ready to bake and play in the Turkey Bowl. (Brigham is soooooo excited. hint of sarcasm? yes) I promise to take tons of pictures so that i can update my blog because i am so horrible at it. But for your enjoyment, here are some oldies, but goodies of my husband to be and me!!

Courtney Get Yer' Gun

2008-11-23T13:56:00.000-08:00

The Orton Family at the Ward Turkey Shoot Out

First Time Shooting a gun..and i hit a Skeet Skeet and almost won a Turkey in the Shot gun Shoot, Be proud Mama.

We pretended we knew how to handle that thing......

Thankfully Thankful

2008-11-23T13:44:00.000-08:00

It's that time again to feel thankful for all the things we have in our lives. (Funny how there's a day to be thankful, not like be thankful all year) My cute sister- in- law to be gave a talk in church on Being Thankful and she read this cute email that although I never would have thought about being thankful for these things, reading this i truly am.

Things to Be Thankful For
Be thankful for the clothes that fit a little too snug, because it means you have
enough to eat.
Be thankful for the mess you clean up after a party, because it means you have
been surrounded by friends.
Be thankful for the taxes you pay, because it means you're employed.
Be thankful that your lawn needs mowing and your windows need fixing, because
it means you have a home.
Be thankful for your heating bill, because it means you are warm.
Be thankful for the laundry, because it means you have clothes to wear.
Be thankful for the space you find at the far end of the parking lot, because it
means you can walk.
Be thankful for the lady who sings off-key behind you in church, because it
means you can hear.
Be thankful when people complain about the government, because it means we
have freedom of speech.
Be thankful for the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours, because it
means you're alive.

I thought that was super cute and agreed with most of them, except for the snug fitting clothes...really i could do without those.

2008-10-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

The Stripling Warrior Gang

2008-10-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

I know i should have posted this a long time ago but alas, I fell into the "my life is too busy" rut. as you all know, the Golden Boy left for his mission last week and i had the honor to take him to the MTC. Please don't be offended when i call him the Golden Boy. usually, this nickname refers to a child whose parents adore him above their other children. In our case, this name and meaning stretches out the the rest of the family. He is "golden boy" to all who know him. He is the shining example of strength, patience, friendship and love. He makes everyone around him light up because of his personality. everyone who knows him instantly loves him. The last two days i spent with him before he entered this amazing new adventure were the hardest, most emotional, most happy days that i have ever had. I picked Jordan up from the airport at around 9:30 and we drove around Salt Lake while i showed him the temple, my old school and we said goodbye to his friend Gina. We drove to Matthew and Leslie's where they had stayed up to greet us. (thanks by the way..it was way late) We talked the whole way to Benjamin and that was way nice to spend time with just the two of us. When we arrived my Nichols bladder got the best of me and i couldn't move let alone walk inside the door. As i hysterically laughed, the situation got worse and Jordan thought this was the most hilarious thing ever. Finally, i ran behind a huge tree while he told me he was going to tell everyone about it. The next morning we woke up and hit the trail for all the errands we had to do. We went and got him all of his necessities from the Springville Walmart( which made me really miss my mom since we stop there all the time during education week. Can't wait for this year!) We ran around Provo looking for a bank to get him a debit card and finally found one. After that we hit the Quilted Bear(not his favorite store, but mine for sure) and then the dollar store since he wouldn't pay $1.98 for a lint roller when he knew there was one for a dollar. (Thanks mom for teaching us how to be thrifty, but i wish he would have just let me buy it seeing how it cost probably $5 in gas just to get to the other store) We then went to lunch at the Pizza Buffet called Docs. It was $6 for all you can eat salad, breadsticks, pizza and ice cream. Jordan did not waste that money for sure. We were the only ones there and they had to keep making pizzas. We finally decided he had had 13 pieces and the biggest ice cream cone ever. When i asked him why he needed such a huge ice cream he told me we were only allowed one cone and so he was going to make it the biggest cone ever. oh did we get looks! We went and visited Brent and Tiana and their family and we got to see Stacie also. We had dinner with Carrie and Ralph and Cassidy and Kali. It was so nice of everyone to come and Jordan really appreciated it. Wednesday we woke up and went to BYU for Jordan's scriptures. We then went to lunch at an amazing Brazilian Grill called Tucanos. (one needs to be opened in Bakersfield along with all the other chains) Grandma and Grandpa Nichols came and we had so much fun. We also met a missionary at the restaurant who was going to Paraguay also.
Finally, i had to take him to the MTC. I had been so brave and was super proud of myself for not crying about it until then. My wonderful dad sent me a text message saying "There's no crying in Baseball or the MTC." Encouraging. We put his bags up and he went and got his missionary tag. We took pictures and then went into the meeting. It was nice to sit there with him and here people talk about how well the missionaries are taken care of and how so many people love them at the MTC and on their missions. When they told us that it was time to go and missionaries go through one door and families through another i couldn't hold back the tears anymore. (Sorry dad) I think having to find the right words to say was the hardest thing ever. Of course there were I Love You's, but i wanted to give him some of my 20 year old wisdom. Needless to say there was nothing good. I tried to say all positive things and be super strong, but when he gave me a hug and told me he would miss me and that he loved me, i don't think i have ever had so many mixed emotions. I wanted him so badly to stay with me and protect him like i always have felt i needed to my whole life, but a bigger part of me saw what a great young man he had grown to be and remembered him telling me how badly he wanted to go and so i hugged him close and bawled my eyes out as i watched him walk though the doors. I was so nervous for him and thought that i couldn't cry anymore when he turned around one last time before walking through the door. I just stood there with my cute cousins Stacie and Brock and sobbed. it felt good to know that one of his best friends Eugene would be looking for him and i knew he would be fine, but holy cow was that hard. He is such a great example and a rock for our family. He will be greatly missed but this is such an amazing and exciting time for him. So sorry about the sob fest, but here's some pictures to go with this novel.

Some Funnies from Elder Urmston

He asked me if he could say 1,000 different words including "Flaming Homosexual and Fagot"
Aunt Carrie saw his Stripling Warrior Ring and thought it was his class ring and Jordan preceded to tell her how this was his second ring because the first one got stolen. We then decided that there is probably a hardened criminal starting a Stripling Warrior Gang.
he tried to tell me about a place that was "caddy corner" to the school. i thought it was called "kitty korner" and he assumed i was right and told me he said "catty corner" because its farther away and a cat is bigger so its called "catty corner"

you can't fix ugly

2008-09-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

for fun: conversation between Winston Churchill and Elizabeth Braddock

Elizabeth Braddock: Sir, you are a drunk.
Churchill: And you, madam, are ugly and in the morning, I shall be sober.

A Plane, A Pool and a Ring

2008-09-15T21:46:00.000-07:00

it's been one day since i have flown back from Bakersfield back to a life of work and monotony. I hated leaving, i love seeing my family and friends and my freaking cute niece and nephew. I thought i was going home to see my brother talk in church, my family and maybe some friends. I had no idea that coming to home meant i would have to answer a question that i had no idea was going to be asked. It all started with Brigham coming down from Idaho to fly home with me. I left work a little early to get everything together and was so excited all day to see him. He called and told me he was in salt lake and asked if we could go on a picnic. I thought he was crazy. i mean we had a flight to catch..what was he thinking? I told him i was sorry but that we didn't have time. I was almost ready to go when he asked me again if we could go on a picnic...now this time we had an hour before we had to board our flight. I told him it was important that we were to the airport early so we don't miss our flight. He got pretty quiet and remained so the whole trip home. I was so confused...why in the world would we go on a picnic? We arrived home and the next day went over to Mom and Dads to go swimming. He went upstairs to change and when i came out of the bathroom heard him calling me. I told him to come downstairs becaue i didn't know what he needed. He said he needed to show me something so i ran up and he was standing in the middle of the hall. Now, this kid does some pretty weird things sometimes, but this was weird, i asked him what he was doing and he smiled at me and told me he was going to ask me to marry him. I. being my ever so patient self told him to "Shut up, you are not. Let's go swimming." Well, he wasn't lying. He got down on his knees and asked me to marry him with the most gorgeous ring ever. I had no idea what to do or say, literally i just stood there and then he asked me if i was going to say yes. Finally i came to my senses and said yes and then screamed for my mom to come upstairs. (which by the way, i was sick and had no voice so screaming was very difficult and sounded ridiculous) So now i have a ring, a fiance and a wedding come up in June. I am SOOOOOO excited. I have planned my wedding since i was interested in boys...so pretty much the day i was born. Brigham is so wonderful and i love him like crazy. He is way too good to me and i can't wait to be married in the temple to him. Countdown begins now!!!!

My Gorgeous Ring(sorry it's blurry)

For My Big Sisters

2008-08-20T13:19:00.000-07:00

The End of a Saga

2008-08-04T22:52:00.000-07:00

Well my friends, the time has come to say goodbye to the Vampires and Werewolves in my life. After just one day of intense reading I finished the last book. I told myself i would never read these fantasy novels, but little did i know that after some coaxing from sixth grade girls at Challenger i gave in and was (in the new saying) "Bitten" by the books. Call me a silly girl reading a silly teenage love novel, so be it (yes i still watch The Little Mermaid) Read them and see. Yes, it holds nothing to The Great Gastby (my favorite book of all time) or even a Jane Austen, but if you want a great summer read, this is your book. On a side note: I feel utterly incomplete when a book that i love comes to an end. Yes, i am the girl that feels like she is the main character and completely lose myself in a book. But really, i am sad. Guess I'll have to get hooked on something else. Anyone read any good books lately?

The Nanny Diaries

2008-07-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

You know you need to update your blog when your sister who NEVER does tells you that you need too. Truly, not much is happening in Salt Lake. I currently have a nanny job that is killing me. I never understand why i do this. I think it will be fun to spend time with kids all summer and go to the pool and play but really i end up raising bratty children who have no sense of discipline or structure. Well, can't quit now. At least it's a poster job for birth control. I probably should learn to get a real job, but alas calling centers and retail are just not for me. Maybe i am lazy, or maybe i don't feel like dealing with people and their crap. A SNL skit pops into my mind that i will have to post. I believe this skit should be shown every other commercial on every channel. Our country would do good to listen to it. Other than that my life is full of boredom, i continue to watch Lingo and Let's make a deal daily and promise myself i will work out, but Monty and Chuck are way better than any work out video or gym. Maybe i should learn to work out whilst watching my new found loves. I haven't bought groceries all summer and i finally made dinner two days ago. (wow...that's pathetic. thank you top ramen and cup of soup) Brigham got accepted into his Laser Optics program and so he will be moving to Idaho in august. I will stay in Salt Lake until January when i will be moving back home to California. Lots of changes but they will be good for everyone. Right now i am trying to find a place for Brig to live and for me to store all my crap in. Seriously, how can i accumulate so much stuff in a matter of years. It really is ridiculous. (I just reread his blog and i apologize for how mundane and unexciting it must sound) Bear with me, today i had poop in a bathing suit and a four year old screaming at me because i wouldn't let her feed her doll milk from her cereal bowl. (kill myself) I really do feel for Scarlett Johannsen and her nannying escapades. (Please see Blog Post Title) Well for now this is all i have. Congratulations to my beautiful sister Nicole on having her precious baby boy. (Can we get a name though anytime soon) If anyone knows anyone coming to Bakersfield from Utah or going home to Bakersfield from Utah let me know. I am in need of some Bakersfield air.

My Trip

2008-06-05T22:48:00.000-07:00

So its been a week since i have been home and i already miss it. I really didn't want to leave, but duty calls in Utah. I had so much fun hanging out with my family and catching up. Here are just some pictures from the trip. Enjoy!

Dang they are cute!!!

California here i come.

2008-05-18T10:40:00.000-07:00

oh my gosh!!!! i cannot stand the excitement i have right now! I am finally GOING HOMEEEEEEE! I am so stoked..six days in the glorious heat and disgusting air i call home. I was always so excited to get away from Bakersfield but i really do miss it. I miss seeing all the "short man syndrome" raised trucks and smelling the cow poop filled air at night. I love walking across the street bare foot to get the mail and pretending it isn't scalding my skin. I love the palm trees and the pools. I love driving to the east side and remembering all the fun times i had over there. I love seeing my high school (has it REALLY been two years since i graduated??) I love coming home..i love my neighborhood, i love my friends, i love seeing my family. I love going to church in Bakersfield...Utah church is sooooo different. I seriously cannot wait...i am already packed and waiting to leave is going to be horrible. I come home Thursday and it really is not soon enough. I feel so ridiculous being this excited but everytime i think of coming home my stomach gets nervous and I want to put everything in the car and just take off. I should probably stop now, i feel a little obsessive, but i don't even care. I am so excited( i should probably find another word to use) Anyway i am ending this, but be excited...COURTNEY'S COMING HOME(along with her friend Brigham) See ya soon.

You Stay Classy Bakersfield

Lame or the cutest thing ever?

2008-05-12T20:50:00.000-07:00

Ok so i have this extremely cute boyfriend(i hate that word) who is the sweetest thing ever. He always finds nice things to do for me and i am always grateful for them, but sometimes i take them for granted,and i wish i didn't because yesterday topped them all.
I went to pick him up from work (mothers day was a "no way can you have Sunday off day") and he came out with flowers for me. I thought he worked at three but apparently he had just told me that so he could walk to the flower store to pick up the flowers he ordered. When i asked what they were for he told me "I know today is mothers day, but i just wanted to say how grateful i am for you and how lucky i am that one day you will be the mother of my children." At first i really wanted to laugh because it was SOOOO cheesy,but he isn't much of a talker and knowing that he spent time thinking about exactly what he was going to say made me so thankful for him. I won't be a mom for a long time but it's nice knowing i will be with someone as awesome as him. so there...a little schpeel about Brigham. I know it's bragging a little, but he's great and i adore him.

10 Things I Love About My Mom

2008-05-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

1. I love my mom because she is can accomplish anything. She is an amazing woman and anything she wants she gets. She is a hard worker and i look up to her so much for that. i try everyday to become more like her in that way. i know it's taking a while but i will get there.
2. I love my mom because she is beautiful. I think this is something that no matter how old she gets will ever change. From the time i was way little i remember sitting in church and wishing i could wear high heels like her and smell like my mom. I take such pride in the compliments i receive when people say i look like her.
3. I love my mom because she married my dad. I am thankful everyday to have the parents that i have. They are amazing and they work together as a team. I pray i will love someone as deeply as my mom loves my dad.
4. I love my mom because she is patient. Seven kids is hard, especially her seven. I haven't always been the easiest..in fact..i think i am the hardest(or so i am told) but she still listens to every sobbing phone call, still gives advice and still loves me no matter what shenanigans i am in.
5. I love my mom because she is funny. I don't think i have met anyone who laughs like my mom, expect for maybe a 90 year old man. It's so funny and she laughs all the time.
6. I love my mom because she is my mom. Out of all the women in the world, i was chosen to go to her. I am so grateful that she was chosen to be my mom, because she's the best.
7. I love my mom because she taught me the gospel. I don't ever remember a time when we didn't go to church. I don't ever remember a time she complained about a calling. She gives the lord her all and i see that everyday. I am grateful for her dedication and for the blessings our family has in our lives because of her.
8. I love my mom because she is such a great example.. In everything she does she teaches me to become better, whether it's money, the church, raising her children or making dinners she teaches me constantly and i love her for that.
9. I love my mom because she is smart. I swear she knows everything..even ask my dad. She is a genius in all areas and i admire that so much.
10. I love my mom because she loves me. even when i think that i could do no more wrong, that i have hit rock bottom she is there to help me pick up the pieces. She has been there through everything, school, boys, trials and so many errors and she still loves me and helps me through them. For this I think I love her most. When I feel like i have no friends in the world i can call my mom and she will always be there.

Happy Mother's Day to all moms, my aunts, my grandma's, my friends and my family, especially my mom. I wouldn't be here without you and i don't think i would make it without you. I love you mom!

First Presidency Song

2008-05-04T20:46:00.000-07:00

I thought this was so cute and clever. You HAVE to watch it.

Enjoy!!

Update

2008-04-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

well...its done. i graduated LDSBC with an Associates degree in General studies. Not very exciting i know. What IS exciting is that i am attending the University of Utah in the fall. Other than that, not much is going on here in Salt Lake. i am working and trying to look for a new place to live. I finally loaded the pictures from Las Vegas onto my computer so I'll post them here. hope everyone is doing well and i love you all! Keep on blogging (some of us obsessively stalk your blogs)

Make a scrapbook - it's easy!

2008-03-27T13:26:00.000-07:00

(

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Spring Fun

2008-03-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Finally, a little time to update. Well i am almost done with school( my associates at least) I graduate april 10th and i am off to the University of Utah. I decided to stay here and take on a nanny job with a family that attends the school i work at. I am very excited and it's going to be a fun summer. I absolutely love my life right now. It's going great and I am VERY pleased to be moving on from LDSBC. Other than school and work, not much is going on here. I am trying to get residency which is a little saddening because claiming California is so much better than Utah( no offense to those that live in the Beehive State) but residency will make college a lot cheaper.

I'm sad i missed the beach. It's something i look forward to every year and I really wanted to go, but instead a couple friends and I decided to visit Las Vegas. It was fun, but after a while it got old. We pretty much just shopped and ate because we don't gamble or drink, so it turned out to be a pretty nice vacation. We rode the Stratosphere rides, which scared me to death. I was so scared of how high we were and thinking about how unsafe amusement rides are. I rode them any way and was on the verge of tears on all three. I love magic mountain and disney land but riding a ride thats already 140 stories high was not my favorite thing.

Well, hopefully next time i'll have something interesting but here's some pictures from vegas and our family's Disneyland trip. Love hearing about everyone so keep on posting (mom and dad)

"a cool teenager"

2008-01-17T11:01:00.000-08:00

Things are getting pretty busy. I've started school and this will be my last semester at good ol' LDSBC. I have applied to the University of Utah and am waiting to hear from them. I am so nervous. I have also decided to move home in April. I graduate April 10th and my last day at work is April 11th. Hopefully this is a good decision, but we will see. I'll head back in the fall if i get into the U. Work is great, school is great and it feels good to be back in a routine. It was so fun being home for Christmas and seeing everyone. On Saturday i turn twenty. 'blegh" For some reason i feel like at 19 life is easier, you can get away with more and in Aunt Elaine's words I'm still a "cool teenager" why can't i still be a cool twenty year old???? sad to think that no longer will i be considered "cool" I'll have to think of something clever to become. maybe a thrifty twenty year old?? (ha ha..right) or a tubular twenty year old. either way..it sounds dull but I'm sure I'll manage. well...back to class. hope everyone's doing great!!

Random Facts in My Exciting Life

2007-12-04T10:30:00.000-08:00

well life is crazy right now with finals and the Christmas Season. I finally checked my blog after all that has happened, thanksgiving at home, Grandma and Grandpa leaving, school and work. I saw i got tagged so here are some facts about me tat maybe you didn't know..or maybe you did..i pretty much am an open book, but here goes.
RANDOM FACTS
1. I scream Les Miserables everyday in my car to work. (people usually just laugh at me)
2. I write down everything i have to do each. it's kind of OCD"ish"
3. One time i got something in the mail for Miss. Utah. i signed up as a joke with my roommates but then i realized i wasn't a resident of utah and have no talents to speak of. (the beauty part i would of had to problem with..haha..riight.) secretly, i think it would have been fun.
4. i shave my legs everyday in the shower WITHOUT fail
5. i don't have any tolerance for pain..it's pretty pathetic
6. i sing opera daily and i'm good..as Mason about the Star Spangled Banner.
I love how Jaime put up what jobs she has had. It made me laugh thinking of the jobs i have had. So if you didn't know..here ya go.
1. Candy Boxes..mostly i got out of it by babysitting though.
2. Sonic- i loved this job. i was the only non-criminal/drug rehab worker there, so they liked me.
3. Nanny for the Bursells. I loved the Kids.....
4. Build a Bear Workshop. I worked there for a year. It was fun but i got sick of it really quick.
5. Nanny for Aldritts-The Most wonderful job.
6. State Farm Insurance- I begged my mom everyday not to make me go
7. The Inn at Temple Square- I loved this job. i worked at the restaurant Passages and i made great money with tips and worked out everyday. (the kitchen was downstairs, so we had to carry the trays up and down stairs all day..it was great!!) They closed down and i watched it being torn down this year. It was really sad.
8. Discover Card- good money, horrible job
9. Challenger Schools- i work with third graders everyday after school and love going to work.
10. College Student- everyone keeps telling me it's my job right now and i do enjoy it, but i'm ready for something new.

Pay it Forward!!

2007-11-04T20:09:00.001-08:00

Well, for once in my life i won something!!! I am so excited! Thanks so much Aunt Jaime! I guess this means that it's my turn!! Ok everyone..you have until November 7th to post a comment and win! Good luck!!

Just another manic..tuesday??

2007-10-09T10:21:00.000-07:00

Conference was great! I had such a good time being in Salt Lake and seeing thousands of people in downtown Salt Lake. Nothing much is happening. Schools going and work is great. I love where i work. It's Challenger School, an academic private school. I work with third graders in the after school program and they are so fun. It's nice wanting to go to work everyday, unlike some other horrific job. (Discover card) They always make me laugh. We were playing charades the other day and one of the boys, Dominic, came up to pull out a slip of paper and he got "Bambi" He looked me straight in the face and with complete seriousness he said "That wimpy deer?" I was laughing so hard. He can;t say his 'r's right and so the way he said it made me lose it. I could not stop laughing. It's so nice because things like this happen everyday. I always come home with a story and a smile. Quite relieving i must say. This weekend Brigham's brother gets married so we have a lot to do. It's going to be fun.
The weather is so weird here. It will be nice like in the 70's and then it will start snowing. I am constantly trying to figure out what to wear. I've learned to always keep a jacket in the car.
well this is really just an update i guess...school's good, work's good, Utah's good. I really really miss home like crazy!! (like a lot!!) Other than not, not much is happening. I get to come home for Christmas, so that's exciting!! I miss you all!!

Update and General Conference

2007-10-02T10:11:00.001-07:00

so nothing really is happening lately. Brigham's brother gets married next weekend and we get to go to Idaho again for that. I am making their sign-in book like a scrap book so if anyone knows any good scrapbooking websites...let me know!! ( i need some serious help, i only have a week left. I'll post pictures soon) Also next week I get to go to two mission reunions, I'm assuming it's better than a High School Reunion. School is going okay, sometimes(all the time) i wish i was done and i could finally get the job i want. I'll be done with my associates next semester which is good and i hope I can finally come home for summer!!
Anyway, the reason i wrote today was mainly because General Conference is this weekend. general Conference to me always used to be a break from church. I could watch tv in my pajamas and finish homework i needed to do. Moving to Salt Lake has completely changed my view of General Conference. Last year i got to attend Sunday Sessions and be around thousands of members of the church. It was an amazing experience. The best/worst part of it was coming out and going into the conference building. I was so upset seeing the people screaming profanities about the gospel. I was so upset, so angry. I wanted to scream back at all these people saying horrible things about the prophet, the church, the "Mormons." When i thought I was going to lose it, i heard bagpipes playing church music. I looked around and saw a man standing by one of these horrible sign holders, playing "Praise to the Man," with his bagpipes, fully clothed in his Scottish garb(?) I couldn't help but calm down and while trying to not cry, thank him for what he was doing. He just smiled and kept on playing, the whole time drowning out the sounds of the horrible people. When they tried to yell louder, he played louder. It was an amazing sight to see.
I am so thankful to live where i do. To have the opportunity to drive by the Temple everyday. The other day, while driving in the car, I was stopped right in front of the Temple and i thought to myself, i really take for granted living here. there are historical church sites all around me, i see the Temple, Conference Center and other sites everyday. It's beautiful and i love living here. (I never thought I would say i love living in Utah)
I'm excited for conference, I didn't get tickets this year, but i will be out there. General Conference is different for me know. There is so much good that comes from what our leaders say. Well, i should probably get back to class(sorry mom :) ) Love you all!!

idaho..four weeks later

2007-09-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

So i got to go on a great adventure this summer before school started. Well, not so much an adventure but a vacation that was much needed. Brigham and I went to Idaho to paint his picket fence out front(yes..i know) and then we got to spend five glorious days doing absolutely nothing. except for Brigham reminds me a lot of my Grandpa Nichols in the sense that wherever we went, he knew somebody or a certain site or land mark and he HAD to tell me ALL about it. It was quite amusing and I sat there smiling and listening quietly, a much harder task than you might think for myself. :) Early one morning he decided that I had been grossly deprived in my childhood by not being able to visit Yellowstone National Park, so we woke up and left. He had a map and a hidden agenda and I had a grumpy mood(it was seven, so early for summer vacation) and disgusting hair(by the way, the weather in Idaho..so not fun)
We drove for two hours and pulled up into none other than BEAR WORLD!!! yes, there is a place in Idaho, (only in Idaho, may i add) called Bear World. At Bear World you get to drive around in your car in an enclosed area where various animals walk around, including Bears. It was a little scary, but fun at the same time. We saw so many animals; bears, wolves, buffalo, deer, goats, and Moosen(Brian Reagan anyone??)
The most fun part was getting to pet the deer and nasty little goats and feeding the cubs. They said feeding the cubs was a once in the lifetime opportunity so i learned that "Once in a lifetime opportunities" cost a lot of money!!! But i was worth it, i got to feed little bears with lambs milk out of a bottle.
Other than that fun trip, we got to spend time with his family, which was really nice. I am learning so much about how important picking a spouse is.(Not that i am getting married soon!!) but i never realized how much goes into picking one. One of the biggest decision making factors i am finding is their family. I am thankful that whomever i marry gets to be in such an amazing family. A little overwhelming at first, but amazing.
I also got to go to education week with my mom this year. It was so exciting to see her, i miss my family so much, and spending time with her was great. Classes were much better appreciated this year. i wasn't looking to catch a date or go to youth classes where all the boys were, (although every year I was very successful in doing so. haha!) i got to attend classes with my mom. It was a great experience. We also got to spend time with Matthew and Leslie and thir family. I adore that family and love going to see them. Grandma and Grandpa were there also and it was nice to get to see them one more time before they leave.
Well, this is way long and i am supposed to be listening to my Music and Culture teacher, so better sign off for now. I'll post the pictures next! Love you all!!

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My week

2007-08-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

This week was way exciting. grandma and grandpa got their mission call(which was hilarious hearing everyone scream about over speaker), one of my really good friends got engaged and i get to be in the wedding (all my friends are getting married, but i'm sticking it out haha) and it was the last week of summer school at the elementary i work at.(i love working there but i was way grateful for that day!!) Next week i get to FINALLY take a vacation. I am going up to idaho for the week and painting a fence??? and then camping in Yellowstone. I am so excited to get away for a week and just relax instead of talking on the phones all day and teaching second graders prepositional phrases. Hopefull it will be a great week! i'll post pictures soon!!

2007-08-05T01:10:00.000-07:00

So I decided to hop on the badwagon and join the site to keep up with my growing family. Being here away from you all is hard, but this is a way nice way to keep up and check up!