"To find one's own personal relationship with Heavenly Father, to never doubt that he guides the details of our lives, to be able in life's conflict to say, 'Thy will be done,' is the attaining of the ability to walk by faith. This ability is something that each soul must find in his own way through the creative living - out of any and all trying experiences that may come along."
- Sister Stella Oaks (Mother of Dallin H. Oaks)
This quote is very comforting to me today as I cope with a very recent trial in my life. I was 12 weeks pregnant with our first child. Last night I began feeling some severe pain and, well I won't share the details, but after meeting with the Doctor this morning we learned that we are no longer going to have a baby this summer...
I had a good meltdown, lots of tears last night and this morning. Brock was able to give me a blessing last night that filled us both with an overwhelming feeling of peace. I know without a doubt that my Father in Heaven is looking out for us and he knows what is best. For whatever reason, this is an experience that needed to happen in our lives in order to strengthen our faith. I am positive that it will serve as a strength to me later in my life. It is definitely painful, but we have felt much strength from our loving and supportive family. I know that there are thousands of families in the world who have gone through this painful experience, and my heart goes out to all of them.
We would greatly appreciate any prayers in our behalf, and we want to thank everyone who has shown so much kindness and love to us both during pregnancy and now as we struggle through this new turn in our lives. I have confidence that we will eventually be blessed with children, and that this is just a trial along the way to help us "attain the ability to walk by faith."
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Truth.
This weekend was LDS General Conference. We had two days chucked full of amazing servants of the Lord telling us what we can do to improve our lives. My highlights:
- Social Media?! A theme throughout all of the talks! We have these amazing tools for connecting and reaching out to people; it's easier than it's ever been. Twitter, Facebook, Texting, Email, Video Chat, Mormon.org, LinkedIn, Google Plus, Blogs... We should use them to spread the amazing joy of the Gospel to others. Service and missionary work has never been so convenient! Yay for the church being up with the times in technology!
- Stand constant and fearless. I noticed a huge theme about the growing chasm between the standards of the world and the standards of the Lord. We cannot stay in luke-warm water, in between the good and the bad. We must make a decision to stand for what is right and resist the temptations that surround us. Then we must have the courage and charity to share our knowledge and happiness with others.
- Families are Forever. I have always loved the emphasis our church places on the family, and it was definitely reiterated in conference this weekend. We must make our family a top priority, and cut out other things in our lives that get in the way of that priority.
- Busy does not equal productive. This talk was very special to me because this is what I have been striving to embrace for the past year. It has been my goal to change my life so that I prioritize what is most important, and cut out the unnecessary extra responsibilities that always creep up. We should allow ourselves enough time to be well rested, enjoy family bonding time, grow closer to the Savior, and listen to spiritual promptings. Sometimes we may have to cut out other responsibilities to make room for that, but I know from personal recent experience that it is so very worth it.
Those are the main things I took from conference. Wasn't it wonderful? Feel free to leave comments of your highlights of General Conference, I'd love to hear! I am so very grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know that Thomas S. Monson is a true prophet of God and receives modern revelation to guide us and help us in our every day lives. I know that Jesus Christ lives, and that he personally knows and loves each one of us. I am grateful to have the scriptures as such a wonderful tool to invite the spirit and peace into my life at any given moment. I love the power of music and the wonderful spirit that hymns bring as we praise the Lord through song. I am so grateful that I get to be with my husband, Brock, for eternity and for this wonderful church that supports us on our journey. My name is Aubrey, and I'm blessed to be a Mormon!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
September 11th
Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous fight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket's red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?
On the shore, dimly seen through the mists of the deep,
Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,
What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep,
As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,
In full glory reflected now shines in the stream:
'Tis the star-spangled banner! Oh long may it wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
And where is that band who so vauntingly swore
That the havoc of war and the battle's confusion,
A home and a country should leave us no more!
Their blood has washed out their foul footsteps' pollution.
No refuge could save the hireling and slave
From the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave:
And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav'n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: "In God is our trust."
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Love Yourself.
Here's a perspective to consider, and some quick words of wisdom to ponder on.
We all work so hard to love others; to have compassion on them; to forgive them. Why? Because they are all children of God and have their own challenges and deserve to be respected and loved. That compassion and charity is a great thing to strive for. Now, have you ever turned that around to yourself? You are a child of God. You have trials and challenges every day, and you are not perfect. Do you respect and love yourself? Do you forgive yourself when you make mistakes? Do you look past your flaws, your extra few pounds, your occasional mood swings, your dirty dishes in the sink, your less-than-perfect grades, your split ends in your hair that you just keep putting in a bun, your freezer/box dinners that you didn't have time to make fancy, your impossibly high-set expectations of yourself that you just don't fulfill.... Do you look past all that and see the beautiful person inside that is just trying to do the best he/she can? You deserve to be happy. You deserve to slow down and enjoy the blessings of life. You are NOT expected to be perfect. Sit down and relax, and remember what's most important to you. Just as you constantly strive to love your neighbor, love yourself. Exactly the way you are!
Happy Sunday!
We all work so hard to love others; to have compassion on them; to forgive them. Why? Because they are all children of God and have their own challenges and deserve to be respected and loved. That compassion and charity is a great thing to strive for. Now, have you ever turned that around to yourself? You are a child of God. You have trials and challenges every day, and you are not perfect. Do you respect and love yourself? Do you forgive yourself when you make mistakes? Do you look past your flaws, your extra few pounds, your occasional mood swings, your dirty dishes in the sink, your less-than-perfect grades, your split ends in your hair that you just keep putting in a bun, your freezer/box dinners that you didn't have time to make fancy, your impossibly high-set expectations of yourself that you just don't fulfill.... Do you look past all that and see the beautiful person inside that is just trying to do the best he/she can? You deserve to be happy. You deserve to slow down and enjoy the blessings of life. You are NOT expected to be perfect. Sit down and relax, and remember what's most important to you. Just as you constantly strive to love your neighbor, love yourself. Exactly the way you are!
Happy Sunday!
Friday, September 2, 2011
Missionaries
So, Brock and I have a lot of close family and friends that are out serving LDS missions right now. I just spent all morning writing to them, and I got to thinking. I was telling my little brother that I am so happy for him that he's out serving, and that my whole life I always wanted to be a missionary, but that the Lord had a different plan for me that was just as wonderful.... his name is Brock :-)
And I kind of feel like I got to serve my own mission, here in Logan. Right when I turned 21, the standard age for a Sister Missionary, I got called as the Relief Society President in my ward. I served in that calling for 9 months, until Brock and I felt that it was the right time to move into a new place. I learned so much from that calling, and I am so grateful that I had that opportunity! And now I have a calling in the Primary, with the music, and with Activity Days! And I feel like this is the second part of my mission. I am a firm believer in the organization of Activity Days. One of my best friends in the world joined the church because of that organization, back when we were really young. I had her over to play, and Activity Days started so I invited her to join. It turns out that we learned to sing a song in Sacrament at that activity. So I invited my friend to come to that as well, since she had learned the song. It was that moment that led her to continue coming to church, and eventually getting baptized. Now she is married in the temple and has a beautiful family. She inspires me every day!
And I feel so blessed to now have that opportunity again, to influence the lives of these young girls in Activity Days! I know that it is where I am supposed to be right now, and I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given to serve. And I am so grateful for all of the people out there who are serving full time missions, who inspire me every day and remind me what's most important.
We don't have to be out in a foreign land, set apart as full time missionaries, wearing the badge, to be missionaries and do the wonderful work of the Lord. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we covenant every week to take that name upon us. We are wearing the badge, and it's important to remember that and to be an example of the believers. Every day we can find ways to serve others and bring people closer to Christ. And maybe one day, Brock and I can serve a full time mission together... but until then, here's to member missionary work! :-)
And I kind of feel like I got to serve my own mission, here in Logan. Right when I turned 21, the standard age for a Sister Missionary, I got called as the Relief Society President in my ward. I served in that calling for 9 months, until Brock and I felt that it was the right time to move into a new place. I learned so much from that calling, and I am so grateful that I had that opportunity! And now I have a calling in the Primary, with the music, and with Activity Days! And I feel like this is the second part of my mission. I am a firm believer in the organization of Activity Days. One of my best friends in the world joined the church because of that organization, back when we were really young. I had her over to play, and Activity Days started so I invited her to join. It turns out that we learned to sing a song in Sacrament at that activity. So I invited my friend to come to that as well, since she had learned the song. It was that moment that led her to continue coming to church, and eventually getting baptized. Now she is married in the temple and has a beautiful family. She inspires me every day!
And I feel so blessed to now have that opportunity again, to influence the lives of these young girls in Activity Days! I know that it is where I am supposed to be right now, and I am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given to serve. And I am so grateful for all of the people out there who are serving full time missions, who inspire me every day and remind me what's most important.
We don't have to be out in a foreign land, set apart as full time missionaries, wearing the badge, to be missionaries and do the wonderful work of the Lord. As members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, we covenant every week to take that name upon us. We are wearing the badge, and it's important to remember that and to be an example of the believers. Every day we can find ways to serve others and bring people closer to Christ. And maybe one day, Brock and I can serve a full time mission together... but until then, here's to member missionary work! :-)
Friday, August 5, 2011
Of Things That Matter Most
So, Day 29 is put a picture of yourself as a child. Haha, Day 18 was put a picture of you 10 years ago, which for me and Brock = Childhood. So, on to, Day 30! Oh my goodness this 30 days of randomness has come to an end!
And the topic is.... Something you learned about yourself in the last 30 days.
Well, counting back to Day One, this "30 Days" actually took me 114 days. So I have learned that there are other things to do in life besides blogging? hahaha. Just kidding. We have had a great last 114 days. This summer has rocked! And I will tell you something I have learned this summer.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a wonderful talk last year entitled, "Of Things That Matter Most". It really hit home to me. My whole life I have always been "go-go-go" nonstop. Always finding ways to keep myself as busy as possible. Always ALWAYS stressed. I was falling into the category Uchtdorf said of people who "think that their self-worth depends on the length of their to-do list. They flood the open spaces in their time with lists of meetings and minutia—even during times of stress and fatigue. Because they unnecessarily complicate their lives, they often feel increased frustration, diminished joy, and too little sense of meaning in their lives." I heard the talk, thought it was great, but I didn't change anything right away. I was scared of changing and I didn't know how. Hence, I still kept busy.
And this summer, I decided to change that. I decided that life is too short to rush through it. I decided to follow President Uchtdorf's advice that "there is more to life than increasing its speed...focus on the things that matter most." And I taught myself how to relax. I quit my unnecessary second job. I put a cap on how many piano and voice students I would accept. I organized my schedule so that free time for myself was always part of it. I made a list of what was most important to me and scheduled out my time to prioritize them. My priorities became:
Be a good wife
Be a good member of the church
Be happy, stress-free, and relaxed (AKA Aubrey time)
Be a good daughter/sister/family member
Be a good home-maker
Be a good friend
Be a good teacher
I devoted a little bit of time every day to each of those roles in my life, because I decided that in my life, that was what mattered most. And I will tell you, and Brock will tell you, I am a changed woman! I feel so good! And I want to share this advice with the world! We are never required to run faster than we are able. This life is about learning and being happy. I am so grateful for this opportunity I took this summer to self-reflect and really decide what is most important to me in this world. I am fully, genuinely, happy. And virtually stress-free. Whoever is reading this, I invite you to join me in the club! Take a leap of faith and de-stress your life. I promise it's worth it. It's scary, but it's worth it. You can do it!
And the topic is.... Something you learned about yourself in the last 30 days.
Well, counting back to Day One, this "30 Days" actually took me 114 days. So I have learned that there are other things to do in life besides blogging? hahaha. Just kidding. We have had a great last 114 days. This summer has rocked! And I will tell you something I have learned this summer.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf gave a wonderful talk last year entitled, "Of Things That Matter Most". It really hit home to me. My whole life I have always been "go-go-go" nonstop. Always finding ways to keep myself as busy as possible. Always ALWAYS stressed. I was falling into the category Uchtdorf said of people who "think that their self-worth depends on the length of their to-do list. They flood the open spaces in their time with lists of meetings and minutia—even during times of stress and fatigue. Because they unnecessarily complicate their lives, they often feel increased frustration, diminished joy, and too little sense of meaning in their lives." I heard the talk, thought it was great, but I didn't change anything right away. I was scared of changing and I didn't know how. Hence, I still kept busy.
And this summer, I decided to change that. I decided that life is too short to rush through it. I decided to follow President Uchtdorf's advice that "there is more to life than increasing its speed...focus on the things that matter most." And I taught myself how to relax. I quit my unnecessary second job. I put a cap on how many piano and voice students I would accept. I organized my schedule so that free time for myself was always part of it. I made a list of what was most important to me and scheduled out my time to prioritize them. My priorities became:
Be a good wife
Be a good member of the church
Be happy, stress-free, and relaxed (AKA Aubrey time)
Be a good daughter/sister/family member
Be a good home-maker
Be a good friend
Be a good teacher
I devoted a little bit of time every day to each of those roles in my life, because I decided that in my life, that was what mattered most. And I will tell you, and Brock will tell you, I am a changed woman! I feel so good! And I want to share this advice with the world! We are never required to run faster than we are able. This life is about learning and being happy. I am so grateful for this opportunity I took this summer to self-reflect and really decide what is most important to me in this world. I am fully, genuinely, happy. And virtually stress-free. Whoever is reading this, I invite you to join me in the club! Take a leap of faith and de-stress your life. I promise it's worth it. It's scary, but it's worth it. You can do it!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
The Fray
Day 27 is put a picture of your family. I already did that a couple months ago, with an entire post about the members of our family and how amazing they are. If you want to read that, here it is: Family. Isn't It About, Time?
In the mean time, let's move on to Day 28! Which is, your favorite musician. I would have to say that by far the band that Brock and I both like the best is The Fray. We have our own other favorites, like Carrie Underwood, and Led Zeppelin, but for both of us, The Fray is always in our top 3! So we'll say it's them. They're awesome. And I have never heard a song by them that I don't love! We went to their live concert our first summer married. We also danced to one of their songs at our wedding. Here's the music video for it... gives me chills every time. Enjoy!
In the mean time, let's move on to Day 28! Which is, your favorite musician. I would have to say that by far the band that Brock and I both like the best is The Fray. We have our own other favorites, like Carrie Underwood, and Led Zeppelin, but for both of us, The Fray is always in our top 3! So we'll say it's them. They're awesome. And I have never heard a song by them that I don't love! We went to their live concert our first summer married. We also danced to one of their songs at our wedding. Here's the music video for it... gives me chills every time. Enjoy!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Views, Perspective, Self Esteem, Priorities
Day 26 is write how you think other people view you.
But I think, who cares? I mean, obviously we hope that people enjoy our company and see the good in us. And we always strive to be kind and serve and make people feel good and important. But the question "how do others view you" just doesn't seem healthy at all. For one, you'll never really know. And for two, all that matters is how you view yourself and how you are in the eyes of the Lord.
Depending on the views of other people is natural. It's a human instinct to want to be loved and looked up to; and to seek affirmation from the people around you. But I have recently learned some very important things about the way you should view life, and I think this question provides a great opportunity for me to share that with everyone!
One realization I've had is that nobody is perfect. I know, I know, it's obvious and everybody knows that. But yet, even though we all know that, we often still expect it of ourselves and others. It is in our culture to "strive for perfection." However, there is a fine line between striving for perfection and expecting perfection. We should always strive for perfection; we should recognize our weaknesses and work to become better every day. However, to expect perfection or get down on ourselves when we're not is blasphemous. Perfection is impossible to achieve in this life. If any of us were perfect, we wouldn't be here. That dividing line is crucial to the way we view ourselves and our lives. And it's also a line that so many people struggle to recognize. That is why so many people harshly judge others and themselves. Everyone should just accept that we are all here, humans, brothers and sisters. We were all sent here for the same purpose, but not to live the same lives. We are all unique and therefore have to find our own way of improving our lives and finding happiness. Everyone messes up. Everyone also does good. Everyone has emotion. Everyone loves someone. If we all could remember those things, everyone would also be happy.
So, instead of ever thinking about what other people think of me, I have decided instead to focus on how I think about others. Am I loving them? Am I serving them? Am I having compassion on them when they are struggling?
And then the other crucial thing to do is prioritize. Figure out what is most important to you, and what is less important to you. Make time for the important things, and you will be happy. I did that this summer; I wrote down my priorities in life: the kind of person I want to be, the things that are important to me, and the time I needed to devote to those things to keep them important. And I feel so happy. I am content with my life and confident that I am heading in the right direction. I am striving for perfection, but I do not expect it of myself. And I am comfortable with that, because that is all I can do.
But I think, who cares? I mean, obviously we hope that people enjoy our company and see the good in us. And we always strive to be kind and serve and make people feel good and important. But the question "how do others view you" just doesn't seem healthy at all. For one, you'll never really know. And for two, all that matters is how you view yourself and how you are in the eyes of the Lord.
Depending on the views of other people is natural. It's a human instinct to want to be loved and looked up to; and to seek affirmation from the people around you. But I have recently learned some very important things about the way you should view life, and I think this question provides a great opportunity for me to share that with everyone!
One realization I've had is that nobody is perfect. I know, I know, it's obvious and everybody knows that. But yet, even though we all know that, we often still expect it of ourselves and others. It is in our culture to "strive for perfection." However, there is a fine line between striving for perfection and expecting perfection. We should always strive for perfection; we should recognize our weaknesses and work to become better every day. However, to expect perfection or get down on ourselves when we're not is blasphemous. Perfection is impossible to achieve in this life. If any of us were perfect, we wouldn't be here. That dividing line is crucial to the way we view ourselves and our lives. And it's also a line that so many people struggle to recognize. That is why so many people harshly judge others and themselves. Everyone should just accept that we are all here, humans, brothers and sisters. We were all sent here for the same purpose, but not to live the same lives. We are all unique and therefore have to find our own way of improving our lives and finding happiness. Everyone messes up. Everyone also does good. Everyone has emotion. Everyone loves someone. If we all could remember those things, everyone would also be happy.
So, instead of ever thinking about what other people think of me, I have decided instead to focus on how I think about others. Am I loving them? Am I serving them? Am I having compassion on them when they are struggling?
And then the other crucial thing to do is prioritize. Figure out what is most important to you, and what is less important to you. Make time for the important things, and you will be happy. I did that this summer; I wrote down my priorities in life: the kind of person I want to be, the things that are important to me, and the time I needed to devote to those things to keep them important. And I feel so happy. I am content with my life and confident that I am heading in the right direction. I am striving for perfection, but I do not expect it of myself. And I am comfortable with that, because that is all I can do.
Monday, August 1, 2011
The Bucket List.
Day 25: Ten Things You Want To Do Before You Die.
Well, this makes ya think a little, it's kinda hard! But here are ten of the things Brock and Aubrey want to do together before we die :)
1. Raise a family
2. Go on a mission together
3. Retire comfortably
4. Open a Physical Therapy Clinic
5. Have a music business
6. Tour Europe
7. Go fishing in Alaska
8. Record a piano/guitar/singing album together
9. Let our children know and enjoy Disneyland
10. Never get so caught up in the world that we forget what's most important; which is to prioritize our family always and make memories that last forever, no matter where we are or what we do!
Well, this makes ya think a little, it's kinda hard! But here are ten of the things Brock and Aubrey want to do together before we die :)
1. Raise a family
2. Go on a mission together
3. Retire comfortably
4. Open a Physical Therapy Clinic
5. Have a music business
6. Tour Europe
7. Go fishing in Alaska
8. Record a piano/guitar/singing album together
9. Let our children know and enjoy Disneyland
10. Never get so caught up in the world that we forget what's most important; which is to prioritize our family always and make memories that last forever, no matter where we are or what we do!
Cornelius Sponge.
Day 24: The last Random Act of Kindness You Encountered.
Sometimes the best acts of kindness are the most simple things. My best friend, Courtney Smith, called me today. And it was so needed and totally made my day. I love talking to her! And I always feel inspired by her. She is so sweet and so wise and I just love her outlook on life! Love you Court, thanks for being so amazing!
Sometimes the best acts of kindness are the most simple things. My best friend, Courtney Smith, called me today. And it was so needed and totally made my day. I love talking to her! And I always feel inspired by her. She is so sweet and so wise and I just love her outlook on life! Love you Court, thanks for being so amazing!
Really random thing that makes me happy: Going into the New York Candy Shop and taking goofy pictures when everyone around looks at you like an idiot.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Hermana Taylor!
Day 23: The last thing that made you cry.
I'll be honest, I cried a little writing Brock's sister, Heather, on her mission today. I miss that girl so much! She is one of our best friends and the three of us were just always together before she left and I love her to pieces!!! She is going to Arcadia, California, Spanish Speaking. And she will be amazing!
I'll be honest, I cried a little writing Brock's sister, Heather, on her mission today. I miss that girl so much! She is one of our best friends and the three of us were just always together before she left and I love her to pieces!!! She is going to Arcadia, California, Spanish Speaking. And she will be amazing!
Love you Hermana Taylor!!!
Jack. The Beagle.
Day 22: Talk about the cuteness of your pet.....?
Well, we don't have a pet. However, the Taylors have a dog named Jack. And he can be considered Brock's pet, because he kinda grew up with him. He is an awesome dog. He is a beagle, and we love him to pieces. He is super hyper, and always wants your food. So whenever you are in the kitchen, he'll follow you around wagging his tail! But if you give him some, then he'll never leave you alone for the rest of your days! Haha he's cute though. I will tell you a story of one of my first experiences with Jack.
We were staying with the Taylors, hangin out downstairs. Suddenly, Jack comes downstairs.... He was supposed to already be downstairs.... uh oh. So we went up to the bedroom we were staying in, and I had left the door open (apparently that's a mistake!). My backpack, which had been zipped shut, mind you, was open, and I had one of those candy santa tubes with reeses chocolates inside it. I hadn't even opened it yet. But Jack opened my backpack, took out my candy, ate every single reeses cup, left the wrappers everywhere, and peed on the bed. Hahahaha.... it was interesting. Lesson learned, don't leave the doors open when you're not in the rooms. Oh man. Talented, sneaky dog. But we love him :) Sadly, I don't have a picture of him. But here's a picture of a beagle, in case you don't know what a beagle looks like.
Yup, that's about what Jack looks like! (Photo found on google). He is crazy, but he's a super loyal dog and so cute. One day, I want a beagle. And then I really can talk about the cuteness of my own pet :) Woot!
Well, we don't have a pet. However, the Taylors have a dog named Jack. And he can be considered Brock's pet, because he kinda grew up with him. He is an awesome dog. He is a beagle, and we love him to pieces. He is super hyper, and always wants your food. So whenever you are in the kitchen, he'll follow you around wagging his tail! But if you give him some, then he'll never leave you alone for the rest of your days! Haha he's cute though. I will tell you a story of one of my first experiences with Jack.
We were staying with the Taylors, hangin out downstairs. Suddenly, Jack comes downstairs.... He was supposed to already be downstairs.... uh oh. So we went up to the bedroom we were staying in, and I had left the door open (apparently that's a mistake!). My backpack, which had been zipped shut, mind you, was open, and I had one of those candy santa tubes with reeses chocolates inside it. I hadn't even opened it yet. But Jack opened my backpack, took out my candy, ate every single reeses cup, left the wrappers everywhere, and peed on the bed. Hahahaha.... it was interesting. Lesson learned, don't leave the doors open when you're not in the rooms. Oh man. Talented, sneaky dog. But we love him :) Sadly, I don't have a picture of him. But here's a picture of a beagle, in case you don't know what a beagle looks like.
Yup, that's about what Jack looks like! (Photo found on google). He is crazy, but he's a super loyal dog and so cute. One day, I want a beagle. And then I really can talk about the cuteness of my own pet :) Woot!
Battle Wounds!
Day 21: Explain how you got your scars.
Well, I have a scar on my foot. Its name is Oscar. It came from a surgery I had on my foot. And the day after the Doctor took my stitches out, it opened up again. So it healed as an open wound. And now I have a giant circle scar on my foot. It's actually pretty cool! And shiny (you know how scars are sometimes shiny when they're deep). Haha, I am proud of my battle wound.
Brock has a cool scar on his head. When he was in Nicaragua, he was messing around with some other missionary, who accidentally pushed Brock backward into the corner of the church. He cracked his head wide open! It was gushing blood, but Brock wasn't about to go to the hospital in that city because it was, well, not the greatest. So he applied pressure with a towel until the bleeding stopped. It was a thick deep wound. Then, he bought some SUPER GLUE. And he held his head shut and made his companion cover it with super glue! And it held! Whoa! Haha so his scar has a way cooler story than mine. I can only see it when I'm cutting his hair, but it's pretty cool :-)
There's our scar stories! :-)
Well, I have a scar on my foot. Its name is Oscar. It came from a surgery I had on my foot. And the day after the Doctor took my stitches out, it opened up again. So it healed as an open wound. And now I have a giant circle scar on my foot. It's actually pretty cool! And shiny (you know how scars are sometimes shiny when they're deep). Haha, I am proud of my battle wound.
Brock has a cool scar on his head. When he was in Nicaragua, he was messing around with some other missionary, who accidentally pushed Brock backward into the corner of the church. He cracked his head wide open! It was gushing blood, but Brock wasn't about to go to the hospital in that city because it was, well, not the greatest. So he applied pressure with a towel until the bleeding stopped. It was a thick deep wound. Then, he bought some SUPER GLUE. And he held his head shut and made his companion cover it with super glue! And it held! Whoa! Haha so his scar has a way cooler story than mine. I can only see it when I'm cutting his hair, but it's pretty cool :-)
There's our scar stories! :-)
My Regret.
Well I have slacked off on my 30 days of randomness... As it has definitely been like a hundred days or something since I started them! So here's a few more!
Day 20 is a regret you have. My regret is....
Ever taking a single bite of those blasted delicious, addicting garden salsa sun chips!!! Seriously, so good. And totally my weakness. I will eat half the bag in one sitting if you give them to me. Terrible :-)
Day 20 is a regret you have. My regret is....
Ever taking a single bite of those blasted delicious, addicting garden salsa sun chips!!! Seriously, so good. And totally my weakness. I will eat half the bag in one sitting if you give them to me. Terrible :-)
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Day Nineteen
Your Favorite Quote.
I have lots, but here's a good one. I've had this posted up on my wall where I can see it frequently for 3 years. I love it:
"Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. Look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. Think only of the best, work only for the best, and expect only the best. Forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future. Give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others. Live in the faith that the whole world is on your side so long as you are true to the best that is in you!"
- Christian D. Larson
I have lots, but here's a good one. I've had this posted up on my wall where I can see it frequently for 3 years. I love it:
"Promise yourself to be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind. Look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true. Think only of the best, work only for the best, and expect only the best. Forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future. Give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticize others. Live in the faith that the whole world is on your side so long as you are true to the best that is in you!"
- Christian D. Larson
Day Seventeen
A Youtube Video.
Love this one. I promise as you watch it, you will laugh.
Brilliant. Utterly brilliant.
Love this one. I promise as you watch it, you will laugh.
Brilliant. Utterly brilliant.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Day Sixteen
In light of Mother's Day tomorrow, I am going to change this topic to celebrate that.
Here is a picture of my beautiful Mom!
Francine Faerber Thompson. I just love her SO much! And on this Mother's Day weekend I just want to post my appreciation and gratitude for everything she does for me. She is always happy, patient, loving, kind, cheerful, strong, beautiful, and fun to be around. She brings a smile to the face of every person she sees. I have learned so much from her and I hope one day I can have some of the amazing qualities she has. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful Mother, and I'm grateful for Mother's Day, giving us a chance to really remember how wonderful Mom's are!
I love you Mom!!!!
Here is a picture of my beautiful Mom!
Francine Faerber Thompson. I just love her SO much! And on this Mother's Day weekend I just want to post my appreciation and gratitude for everything she does for me. She is always happy, patient, loving, kind, cheerful, strong, beautiful, and fun to be around. She brings a smile to the face of every person she sees. I have learned so much from her and I hope one day I can have some of the amazing qualities she has. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful Mother, and I'm grateful for Mother's Day, giving us a chance to really remember how wonderful Mom's are!
I love you Mom!!!!
Friday, May 6, 2011
Day Fifteen
Something I ate today.
CEREAL!!!!!
Brock's favorite cereal- He mixes together....
Or, I will do Cocoa Roos with my Honey Nut Scooters. But today, it was Honey Graham Squares :)
Confession, I am totally addicted to cereal. I seriously hate days when I don't get to eat it, and I will NEVER let us run out of milk. If we do, it's the end of the world. Hahaha. Hooray for Cereal!
CEREAL!!!!!
Brock's favorite cereal- He mixes together....
And My favorite cereal... I mix together:
Or, I will do Cocoa Roos with my Honey Nut Scooters. But today, it was Honey Graham Squares :)
Confession, I am totally addicted to cereal. I seriously hate days when I don't get to eat it, and I will NEVER let us run out of milk. If we do, it's the end of the world. Hahaha. Hooray for Cereal!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Day Fourteen
Someone who fascinates you and why.
J. K. Rowling fascinates me. It fascinates me how her mind works! She created this entire other world, making it seem totally realistic, to the very detail of the names of what coins they use! I seriously think she is brilliant. And the way that she tied every single detail together so perfectly in the very last book, making it end at Hogwarts even though they weren't there anymore, and twisting and surprising along the way, but ending it so beautifully, is amazing to me. I am not a writer, nor a book critic, but I have never read anything more brilliant in my life!
J. K. Rowling fascinates me. It fascinates me how her mind works! She created this entire other world, making it seem totally realistic, to the very detail of the names of what coins they use! I seriously think she is brilliant. And the way that she tied every single detail together so perfectly in the very last book, making it end at Hogwarts even though they weren't there anymore, and twisting and surprising along the way, but ending it so beautifully, is amazing to me. I am not a writer, nor a book critic, but I have never read anything more brilliant in my life!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Day Thirteen
5 famous attractive guys.
Okay, I'll admit it. My "celebrity crushes" are.....
1. James Marsden. AKA Prince Edward. (from Enchanted)
2. David Boreanaz. AKA Agent Boothe (from Bones)
3. Chad Michael Murray. AKA Lucas Scott (from One Tree Hill)
4. Channing Tatum. AKA John (from Dear John)
5. Matthew Fox. AKA Jack (from LOST)
Okay, I'll admit it. My "celebrity crushes" are.....
1. James Marsden. AKA Prince Edward. (from Enchanted)
2. David Boreanaz. AKA Agent Boothe (from Bones)
3. Chad Michael Murray. AKA Lucas Scott (from One Tree Hill)
4. Channing Tatum. AKA John (from Dear John)
5. Matthew Fox. AKA Jack (from LOST)
So there ya go! I did it! And for good measure, here's number one!
Brock S. Taylor. Will probably be famous some day ;)
Day Twelve
Your highs and lows of the past year.
Hmm. I seriously sat here trying to think of any significant "lows" we had this past year, and honestly couldn't think of any! We have been so blessed and had such a fabulous year. So I'm going to say, Highlights of the past year! :-)
May 2010 - May 2011 (Year 2 of Brock and Aubrey's marriage)
- We went to Lava Hot Springs for our 2nd Anniversary!
- Brock got promoted twice in his job and is doing super well!
- Aubrey was the Relief Society President for the entire school year.
- Brock was given the "Rising Star" award for his company at the Christmas Party
- Aubrey had her Senior Voice Recital in November
- We went to the beautiful exotic Nicaragua over New Years and it was incredible!
- Brock performed in a band for a couple of shows at the Iron Gate Grill
- Aubrey began teaching private piano/voice lessons - currently at 19 students!!
- Jake Thompson left on a mission, Emily Thompson got baptized, and Heather Taylor got a mission call!
- We have had fun camping, playing sports, fishing, eating ice cream, playing video games, throwing parties, going on bike rides, exploring in the canyons- off-roading in the truck and hiking, rodeos and demo derbys, and playing with family!
It's been a great year two and we're excited for the adventures that lie ahead!
Hmm. I seriously sat here trying to think of any significant "lows" we had this past year, and honestly couldn't think of any! We have been so blessed and had such a fabulous year. So I'm going to say, Highlights of the past year! :-)
May 2010 - May 2011 (Year 2 of Brock and Aubrey's marriage)
- We went to Lava Hot Springs for our 2nd Anniversary!
- Brock got promoted twice in his job and is doing super well!
- Aubrey was the Relief Society President for the entire school year.
- Brock was given the "Rising Star" award for his company at the Christmas Party
- Aubrey had her Senior Voice Recital in November
- We went to the beautiful exotic Nicaragua over New Years and it was incredible!
- Brock performed in a band for a couple of shows at the Iron Gate Grill
- Aubrey began teaching private piano/voice lessons - currently at 19 students!!
- Jake Thompson left on a mission, Emily Thompson got baptized, and Heather Taylor got a mission call!
- We have had fun camping, playing sports, fishing, eating ice cream, playing video games, throwing parties, going on bike rides, exploring in the canyons- off-roading in the truck and hiking, rodeos and demo derbys, and playing with family!
It's been a great year two and we're excited for the adventures that lie ahead!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Day Eleven
Somewhere you would like to move or visit.
Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Hoping to end up there some day :-)
Highlands Ranch, Colorado. Hoping to end up there some day :-)
Day Ten
Bullet your whole day.
5:00 AM Brock woke up
6:00 AM Brock started work
7:00 AM Aubrey woke up
8:00 AM Aubrey started work
12:00 PM Aubrey gets off work
1:00 PM Brock gets off work
2:30 PM Brock has a Final
5:00 PM Brock and Aubrey have an optional Final that we're not going to take :)
5:00 PM We'll probably make fish for dinner instead of taking a final
6:30 PM Aubrey has a piano/voice recital to go to for her new students
Rest of the night.... Studying.
Welcome to Finals week! At least it's sunny today!
Hahaha, that was a boring post. So here's a laffy taffy joke to spice it up.
Q: What do you call a fish with no eyes?
Anyone? Anyone?
-
-
-
-
-
-
Wait for it.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A: FSH!!!!!!
Hahahaha. My favorite joke ever. Happy today!
5:00 AM Brock woke up
6:00 AM Brock started work
7:00 AM Aubrey woke up
8:00 AM Aubrey started work
12:00 PM Aubrey gets off work
1:00 PM Brock gets off work
2:30 PM Brock has a Final
5:00 PM Brock and Aubrey have an optional Final that we're not going to take :)
5:00 PM We'll probably make fish for dinner instead of taking a final
6:30 PM Aubrey has a piano/voice recital to go to for her new students
Rest of the night.... Studying.
Welcome to Finals week! At least it's sunny today!
Hahaha, that was a boring post. So here's a laffy taffy joke to spice it up.
Q: What do you call a fish with no eyes?
Anyone? Anyone?
-
-
-
-
-
-
Wait for it.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
A: FSH!!!!!!
Hahahaha. My favorite joke ever. Happy today!
Friday, April 29, 2011
Day Nine
Put your Itunes on Shuffle and name the first ten songs that come up!
1. Born to Fly - Sara Evans
2. If I Never Knew You - Pocahontas
3. Check Yes Juliet - We the Kings
4. Every Time We Touch - Cascada
5. White Christmas - Mormon Youth Orchestra
6. My Alien - Simple Plan
7. Oh Come, All Ye Faithful - Mormon Youth Orchestra (weird to get two of those, I don't even have very many of their songs!)
8. Sunshine of My Life - Stevie Wonder
9. Please Shine - We Shot the Moon
10. Tangled - Maroon 5
Hm. I have lots of random wide variety of music!
1. Born to Fly - Sara Evans
2. If I Never Knew You - Pocahontas
3. Check Yes Juliet - We the Kings
4. Every Time We Touch - Cascada
5. White Christmas - Mormon Youth Orchestra
6. My Alien - Simple Plan
7. Oh Come, All Ye Faithful - Mormon Youth Orchestra (weird to get two of those, I don't even have very many of their songs!)
8. Sunshine of My Life - Stevie Wonder
9. Please Shine - We Shot the Moon
10. Tangled - Maroon 5
Hm. I have lots of random wide variety of music!
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
Day Seven
Bible Verse.
I'm gonna change that to a scripture verse. When Brock was leaving on his mission, we were both having a really hard time with it. Before he left, my Seminary group came up with the scripture theme D&C 68:6. It reads:
"Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, that I am, and that I am to come."
We both found comfort from that scripture, and it is still my very favorite one. He put that as his scripture on his missionary plaque, and at the end of every single letter, we would tell each other, "Good Cheer, No Fear!"
Kinda cheesy, I know, but it was awesome, and comforted us a whole lot throughout those two years. I love the scriptures and am so grateful for the blessing they are in my life!
I'm gonna change that to a scripture verse. When Brock was leaving on his mission, we were both having a really hard time with it. Before he left, my Seminary group came up with the scripture theme D&C 68:6. It reads:
"Wherefore, be of good cheer, and do not fear, for I the Lord am with you, and will stand by you; and ye shall bear record of me, even Jesus Christ, that I am the Son of the living God, that I was, that I am, and that I am to come."
We both found comfort from that scripture, and it is still my very favorite one. He put that as his scripture on his missionary plaque, and at the end of every single letter, we would tell each other, "Good Cheer, No Fear!"
Kinda cheesy, I know, but it was awesome, and comforted us a whole lot throughout those two years. I love the scriptures and am so grateful for the blessing they are in my life!
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Day Six
A place you've travelled to.
Yes, we've been there. The beautiful Nicaragua. Brock served his mission there, and this past December we took a nine day trip to that beautiful amazing country and it was the most wonderful trip of my life! If you want to hear about our trip, I blogged about it.... a long blog.... Search my 9 days of Nicaragua posts :) Hooray!
Yes, we've been there. The beautiful Nicaragua. Brock served his mission there, and this past December we took a nine day trip to that beautiful amazing country and it was the most wonderful trip of my life! If you want to hear about our trip, I blogged about it.... a long blog.... Search my 9 days of Nicaragua posts :) Hooray!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Day Five
A picture of something that makes you happy!
Brock and I both love music. I play the piano, he plays guitar, we both sing, and we love jamming out together! It is a wonderful part of our relationship and it really does make us so happy!
Monday, April 18, 2011
Day Three
Your Parents!
Krey and Francine Thompson. Live in Murray, Utah. They have 5 children, and Aubrey is number 2.
Martha and Scott Taylor. Live in Parker, Colorado. They have 4 children, and Brock is number 2.
We love our parents SO much! :) :) :)
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Day Two
Your First Love.
What a coincidence! It was each other! ;) hahaha. Here's a picture of us when we were dating in High School. It was taken at Brock's graduation (I sang in the choir- that's the reason for the odd black dress). Hooray!
What a coincidence! It was each other! ;) hahaha. Here's a picture of us when we were dating in High School. It was taken at Brock's graduation (I sang in the choir- that's the reason for the odd black dress). Hooray!
Friday, April 15, 2011
Day One!
Recent Photo:
6. Brock was a Registered Professional Disc Golfer in High School.
15. We are the happiest and most in love couple in the world! :D
This was taken a couple weeks ago when we went exploring in a park in Providence, UT. It was so fun!
15 Facts about Aubrey and Brock:
1. We went to Jr. High and High School together. Bonneville Vikings and Cottonwood Colts!
2. Brock went to prom two times in High School: once with Aubrey's sister, and once with Aubrey! :P
3. We hooked up in Madrigals, Brock's senior year and Aubrey's Jr. year, and dated for a year.
4. Brock served a mission in Nicaragua from September, 2006 to October, 2008. We wrote back and forth every single week for 25 months :)
5. We got married on May 15th, 2009. Goin' on 2 years!
6. Brock was a Registered Professional Disc Golfer in High School.
7. Aubrey was a pianist for Desert Star's Dinner Theater and the Grand America Hotel.
8. We both love to sing, play, and write music. We have recordings of it, and Aubrey is publishing some books of her songs.
9. Both of our dream place to live right now is in Parker, Colorado. We have weighed pros and cons with SLC, Logan, Oregon, Seattle, and St. George, and both of us just see Parker as the best situation! Hopefully one day we're there!
10. We're both in school at USU. Aubrey's studying Choral Music Education, going to graduate December 2011. Brock is studying Management Information Systems, going to graduate December 2012.
11. We are moving into the main floor of a little house by the temple next month and we're so excited!
12. In High School, we determined that if we ever got married we would name our first son Carson Brock Taylor. Cheesy, I know :) but we are still set on that name and planning on it, whenever that time comes!
13. A little over a year ago, we decided to watch the first episode of Lost. Well, that turned into the first season, which turned into the entire series (6 seasons), which we finished just four days before the series finale played on TV.... just over one month later!!! And then we pre-ordered the entire series and own it all on DVD. Love it!
14. Aubrey's all time favorite book: the Harry Potter Series. Brock's all time favorite book: Where the Red Fern Grows. I think that says something about our personalities... I am totally cliche, and Brock is not! hahaha :)
15. We are the happiest and most in love couple in the world! :D
30 Days of Randomness
So, my good friend Rachel started a "30 Days of Randomness" on her blog. I thought that looked so fun! And it's a great way to get to know yourself and think of good memories. So I'm gonna do a 30 Days of Randomness for Aubrey and Brock! This will be fun to find what we have in common and stuff. Here's the list:
Day 1: Introduction, recent picture of yourself, 15 interesting facts
Day 2: Your first love
Day 3: Your parents
Day 4: A song to match your mood
Day 5: A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 6: A place you've travelled to
Day 7: Bible verse
Day 8: Something you miss
Day 9: Put your ipod on shuffle, first 10 songs that come up
Day 10: Bullet your whole day
Day 11: Somewhere you would like to move or visit
Day 12: Your highs and lows of this past year
Day 13: Give pictures of 5 guys who are famous and you find attractive
Day 14: Someone who fascinates you and why
Day 15: A photo of something you ate today
Day 16: A letter to someone who has hurt you lately
Day 17: A youtube video
Day 18: A photo of you ten years ago
Day 19: Your favorite quote
Day 20: A regret you have
Day 21: Explain how you got your scars
Day 22: Talk about the cuteness of your pet
Day 23: The last thing that made you cry
Day 24: Talk about the last random act of kindness you encountered
Day 25: Ten things you want to do before you die
Day 26: How do you think others view you
Day 27: Picture of your family
Day 28: Your favorite musician and why
Day 29: A photo of you as a child
Day 30: Something you learned (if anything) about yourself in the last 30 days
Day 1: Introduction, recent picture of yourself, 15 interesting facts
Day 2: Your first love
Day 3: Your parents
Day 4: A song to match your mood
Day 5: A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 6: A place you've travelled to
Day 7: Bible verse
Day 8: Something you miss
Day 9: Put your ipod on shuffle, first 10 songs that come up
Day 10: Bullet your whole day
Day 11: Somewhere you would like to move or visit
Day 12: Your highs and lows of this past year
Day 13: Give pictures of 5 guys who are famous and you find attractive
Day 14: Someone who fascinates you and why
Day 15: A photo of something you ate today
Day 16: A letter to someone who has hurt you lately
Day 17: A youtube video
Day 18: A photo of you ten years ago
Day 19: Your favorite quote
Day 20: A regret you have
Day 21: Explain how you got your scars
Day 22: Talk about the cuteness of your pet
Day 23: The last thing that made you cry
Day 24: Talk about the last random act of kindness you encountered
Day 25: Ten things you want to do before you die
Day 26: How do you think others view you
Day 27: Picture of your family
Day 28: Your favorite musician and why
Day 29: A photo of you as a child
Day 30: Something you learned (if anything) about yourself in the last 30 days
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Family. Isn't it about, time?
Anyone remember those commercials? With the cheesy music and the little family videos? So funny!
Well, this post doesn't really have anything to do with those commercials, it just seemed like a fitting title :) This post is a tribute to family and how much I love them and how much fun we have with them!
The first to name is Heather Taylor. I love her so much. And she is my saving grace in this Logan Town. We text every day, and play at least twice a week, and I love it every time. She comes over and always brings happiness! And she helps me clean- which is embarrassing to me but I sincerely appreciate it! And she always has fun ideas for us to do. And she designed the covers for my books, which was fantastic. And she Zumbas with me, and sings with me, and dances with me, and eats chocolate with me, and plays video games with me, and watches Bones with me, and is hyper with me..... the list goes on :) I consider her one of my very truest best friends and I am so grateful to have her as a sister!
Heather is going to Wisconsin this week and I am going to miss her dearly. But that brings me to my next point! Meghan and Brad Schow. They live in Wisconsin right now and I only see them like once or twice a year. But they are two incredible people that I look up to soooo much! They are two people you could turn to for advice about anything! And they are so thoughtful and hardworking and talented and brilliant and responsible and logical and clever and spiritual and always so fun to be around! I miss them so much and I love them both dearly!
Then there is Stephanie and Jeremy Dowse. They live in Sugarhouse, UT right now. We always have so much fun every time we get together! They are crazy and goofy and adorable and kind and hard working and loving and, they just bring me joy all the time! I love talking to both of them and spending time with them and joking with them and, they're just amazing people! And they are so perfect together. Their love story is probably the most amazing thing I've ever heard. Love them!
Jacob Thompson. Elder Jacob Thompson, I should say, as he is serving on an LDS mission right now in Roseville, California. He is someone you can always count on and trust, and he is rock solid in everything he decided to do. Steadfast and immovable, that is Jake. I used to tease him sometimes about being boring or working too hard, but I honestly admire him for how straight he keeps his priorities. Little brother example to me! Plus he's always so happy to see me and I can always count on him to join me whenever I want to make music! He's an amazing guy and I know he is an amazing missionary!
Then there's Cambo Rambo- Cameron Taylor. I love that kid! Count on him for a fun time all the time. We don't get to see him very often but when we do it's a total blast! Plus, he's moving to Logan this summer and we are STOKED! We're gonna play sports and video games and stay up late and party! Plus Cam is someone who is always so easy to talk to. He is mature beyond his years! And it shows in conversations you have with him. I love Cam to pieces and am so excited to live by him this year!
Another fun brother that you can always count on for laughs is Jared J. Thompson. He's a goof ball teenager that you just can't help but love! He has a hilarious sense of humor and can be totally crazy, but he's also one of the sweetest kids you'll ever meet! He's always happy to see us and is so fun to be around! I always look forward to spending time with him because I know it will be a blast no matter what we do! He is talented and spunky and fun and I just love him muchisimo!!!
The youngen of the family is Emily K. Thompson. She has a personality all her own, and she owns it! She is 8 years old and so adorable! We always have fun doing hair and makeup together; it's a blast. She's always happy to see us and every time we see her she has some crazy new idea she's thought up- probably one of the most creative little girls I've ever met! But I am so proud of her and it's amazing to see how grown up she is getting. I love her so much!
Now the parentals!
Krey and Francine Thompson. How can you combine all that you want to say to the amazing people who raised you into one tiny paragraph? It's impossible. So I'll just say this: they are amazing and I am so grateful I was born into their family. They taught me everything I know about the gospel and life and music and love and I could never thank them enough for everything they have done and continue to do for me and Brock! I love them with all my heart; they are truly amazing!
Scott and Martha Taylor- I am also eternally grateful for them. Not only for raising my husband to be the amazing man he is, but also for accepting me into their family with open arms! I really do feel like they are my other set of parents and I am so grateful for the love and support I feel from them every day! They are two amazing people that I fully look up to and hope to be like some day! Love them!
Honorable mentions.
Two people who are basically part of the family.
Courtney Smith. I grew up with her. She's my sister at heart and always will be. Don't worry, she's like traveling the world right now... I think she's in China or something... haha but I just love her. She has always had that independent, adventurous spirit and I am so proud of her for fulfilling her dreams! And I'm also grateful to her every day for the amazing friend she has been to me. I love our talks and our memories, and I love that even though we see each other once a year we get together and it's like we were never apart! That to me proves a true friendship.
Meredith Nigh. My other Logan buddy, and totally part of our Logan Family. She is an amazing person and I am so glad that I have gotten to know her! And because of her conjoined at the hip with my lovely Heather, I have gotten to spend a lot of time with her and I really think she is incredible! I love spending time with her and chatting with her and, she's shy but once you crack her shell a bit she is soooo fun! I will never forget our girls nights of her and Heather with Mario Kart and Pizza and Pirates and Cinnamon Rolls and Dancing and (once again the list goes on), I just love that girl to pieces!
Also, shout out to all of our extended family- aunts, uncles, and cousins, that bring us joy all the time! Especially Charlie Folsom who has been playing with us lately and it is SO fun. Yay!
So there. Those are the people that every day help make Brock and Aubrey's life the wonderful way that it is! I really don't think enough can ever be said about the amazingness that is family. I am truly grateful for each of these people in my life and I could never repay them for the things they have done for me. I love my husband and I love that we get to be together forever and, I just love life! Woohoo! :)
Well, this post doesn't really have anything to do with those commercials, it just seemed like a fitting title :) This post is a tribute to family and how much I love them and how much fun we have with them!
The first to name is Heather Taylor. I love her so much. And she is my saving grace in this Logan Town. We text every day, and play at least twice a week, and I love it every time. She comes over and always brings happiness! And she helps me clean- which is embarrassing to me but I sincerely appreciate it! And she always has fun ideas for us to do. And she designed the covers for my books, which was fantastic. And she Zumbas with me, and sings with me, and dances with me, and eats chocolate with me, and plays video games with me, and watches Bones with me, and is hyper with me..... the list goes on :) I consider her one of my very truest best friends and I am so grateful to have her as a sister!
Heather is going to Wisconsin this week and I am going to miss her dearly. But that brings me to my next point! Meghan and Brad Schow. They live in Wisconsin right now and I only see them like once or twice a year. But they are two incredible people that I look up to soooo much! They are two people you could turn to for advice about anything! And they are so thoughtful and hardworking and talented and brilliant and responsible and logical and clever and spiritual and always so fun to be around! I miss them so much and I love them both dearly!
Then there is Stephanie and Jeremy Dowse. They live in Sugarhouse, UT right now. We always have so much fun every time we get together! They are crazy and goofy and adorable and kind and hard working and loving and, they just bring me joy all the time! I love talking to both of them and spending time with them and joking with them and, they're just amazing people! And they are so perfect together. Their love story is probably the most amazing thing I've ever heard. Love them!
Jacob Thompson. Elder Jacob Thompson, I should say, as he is serving on an LDS mission right now in Roseville, California. He is someone you can always count on and trust, and he is rock solid in everything he decided to do. Steadfast and immovable, that is Jake. I used to tease him sometimes about being boring or working too hard, but I honestly admire him for how straight he keeps his priorities. Little brother example to me! Plus he's always so happy to see me and I can always count on him to join me whenever I want to make music! He's an amazing guy and I know he is an amazing missionary!
Then there's Cambo Rambo- Cameron Taylor. I love that kid! Count on him for a fun time all the time. We don't get to see him very often but when we do it's a total blast! Plus, he's moving to Logan this summer and we are STOKED! We're gonna play sports and video games and stay up late and party! Plus Cam is someone who is always so easy to talk to. He is mature beyond his years! And it shows in conversations you have with him. I love Cam to pieces and am so excited to live by him this year!
Another fun brother that you can always count on for laughs is Jared J. Thompson. He's a goof ball teenager that you just can't help but love! He has a hilarious sense of humor and can be totally crazy, but he's also one of the sweetest kids you'll ever meet! He's always happy to see us and is so fun to be around! I always look forward to spending time with him because I know it will be a blast no matter what we do! He is talented and spunky and fun and I just love him muchisimo!!!
The youngen of the family is Emily K. Thompson. She has a personality all her own, and she owns it! She is 8 years old and so adorable! We always have fun doing hair and makeup together; it's a blast. She's always happy to see us and every time we see her she has some crazy new idea she's thought up- probably one of the most creative little girls I've ever met! But I am so proud of her and it's amazing to see how grown up she is getting. I love her so much!
Now the parentals!
Krey and Francine Thompson. How can you combine all that you want to say to the amazing people who raised you into one tiny paragraph? It's impossible. So I'll just say this: they are amazing and I am so grateful I was born into their family. They taught me everything I know about the gospel and life and music and love and I could never thank them enough for everything they have done and continue to do for me and Brock! I love them with all my heart; they are truly amazing!
Scott and Martha Taylor- I am also eternally grateful for them. Not only for raising my husband to be the amazing man he is, but also for accepting me into their family with open arms! I really do feel like they are my other set of parents and I am so grateful for the love and support I feel from them every day! They are two amazing people that I fully look up to and hope to be like some day! Love them!
Honorable mentions.
Two people who are basically part of the family.
Courtney Smith. I grew up with her. She's my sister at heart and always will be. Don't worry, she's like traveling the world right now... I think she's in China or something... haha but I just love her. She has always had that independent, adventurous spirit and I am so proud of her for fulfilling her dreams! And I'm also grateful to her every day for the amazing friend she has been to me. I love our talks and our memories, and I love that even though we see each other once a year we get together and it's like we were never apart! That to me proves a true friendship.
Meredith Nigh. My other Logan buddy, and totally part of our Logan Family. She is an amazing person and I am so glad that I have gotten to know her! And because of her conjoined at the hip with my lovely Heather, I have gotten to spend a lot of time with her and I really think she is incredible! I love spending time with her and chatting with her and, she's shy but once you crack her shell a bit she is soooo fun! I will never forget our girls nights of her and Heather with Mario Kart and Pizza and Pirates and Cinnamon Rolls and Dancing and (once again the list goes on), I just love that girl to pieces!
Also, shout out to all of our extended family- aunts, uncles, and cousins, that bring us joy all the time! Especially Charlie Folsom who has been playing with us lately and it is SO fun. Yay!
So there. Those are the people that every day help make Brock and Aubrey's life the wonderful way that it is! I really don't think enough can ever be said about the amazingness that is family. I am truly grateful for each of these people in my life and I could never repay them for the things they have done for me. I love my husband and I love that we get to be together forever and, I just love life! Woohoo! :)
Friday, February 18, 2011
Nicaragua!!! Day 9
The phone alarm went off the next morning, and there we were in the Best Western Hotel for our final hours in Nicaragua. I have to admit, I cried a little as we packed everything up. It had been the most perfect trip of my life. I really did love every second of it! So we went and ate breakfast (gallo pinto- divine!) and walked around a bit, soaking up the sun.
Then we checked out and took a taxi to the airport. Fanny (the girl from Matagalpa that wasn't there when we were) called and wanted to meet us at the airport because she was in Managua! So we were very excited and after we checked our bags we went and met her in the front area of the airport. She was such a sweetheart! Brock said she was one of his most solid converts. Even though her family didn't want her to get baptized, she put her foot down, told them she knew it was true, and that she was joining the church. I could see that strong headed spirit she had when we met her. I liked her a lot!
As we said bye to her and were about to go through security, I remembered something I had forgotten: my travel pillow! Brock bought me one of those nice Brookstone U-shaped pillows for the plane rides to help with motion sickness and help me sleep on the plane. It worked wonders on the way there, and I carried it all over that country just so I could have it on the way home! And then in the very last hour I left it!!! Luckily, the Best Western is directly across the street from the airport, and their taxi was just pulling up dropping other people off at the airport. So after I convinced Brock that I really really wanted my pillow, he went over to the taxi guy and asked if he'd take us back. Since he was heading there anyway he didn't even charge us. We went back and talked to the hotel guy who said that Housekeeping was in our room right now!
So we rushed over there and the room was already clean. But the housekeeping lady was in the next room! So Brock asked her if she had seen a blue U-shaped pillow while she was cleaning (I was really hoping she had otherwise I would have been WAY embarrassed). She smiled and pulled out a plastic bag where she had put my pillow! Yay!!! I thanked her graciously and we were off! (Good thing we got to the airport way early... again!). Since our bags were already checked at the airport, we decided to be daring and just book it across the Managua Highway. I was pretty much terrified but trusting Brock. We waited for a break and then ran! Haha that was an adrenaline rush! If I haven't explained it before, the Nicaragua streets are CRAZY! There are almost no traffic laws and people (even buses) are constantly weaving in and out around each other. It's intense. There were a few times on our trip that I was legitimately afraid for our lives! Haha, but we survived :)
And there we were, back at the airport! We went through security and had about an hour and a half to spare before boarding our flight. The only food place on the gate side of the airport was Subway! So that's what we got. And the lady working there spoke English! Okay so here is embarrassing story number two of the day. I ordered, and then Brock ordered in Spanish. As he was about to pay, I was like, "Oh wait! Ask her if I can have a water!" She looked at me all weird, and handed me a water bottle. Duh! I had already forgotten she spoke English! I was so used to having Brock translate everything for me that it was just second nature to do it again! I apologized, trying to explain that to her... really hoping she didn't take offense! Hahaha it was embarrassing :)
Anyway, then we ate our Subway (not quite as good as in the US but not bad!) and explored the airport a little bit. They had all this crazy expensive stuff there! It was so weird after seeing everything on the streets so cheap haha I guess they can always charge more at the airport! Anyway, finally it was time to board. I took my dramamine, took one last look at the beautiful Nicaragua, and then got on the plane. As we took off Brock was pointing out to me all the lakes and volcanoes. It was so cool to look at them and see how much we traveled all over that country! Brock said that in 9 days we saw more of Nicaragua than most Nicaraguans ever see. We really did go everywhere! It was a lot of walking and driving, but so worth every bit of it!
And then, before we knew it, we were home. Back in the freezing winter of Utah. It was a very bitter sweet moment as we walked into our little apartment. Finally home, and not really able to decide if I wanted to be or not. I could have stayed in Nicaragua forever- the friendly laid back atmosphere, the warm sunshine, the delicious food, the humidity, the beautiful plants... It was the perfect adventure and so worth every second of it! It really did give me some new perspectives on life and I will never forget what I learned there. Nicaragua was a huge piece of Brock's life and I am so happy that I finally got to share it with him. Maybe one day we'll be able to go back again, and maybe not. But if not, we will treasure the memories of those 9 days forever.
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