The Nelsons

EYE see you

2011-08-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

My right eye has been twitching for 8 days. Straight. All day long.
My right calf sometimes joins in the fun...

I found this awesome website that wasn't helpful at all, feel free to take a look!
http://eyetwitching.net/eye-twitching-causes

How's that for an update? ;)

Little B's 1st Halloween

2010-11-24T23:43:00.000-08:00

My lil' Pumpkin in his ducky slippers

Out and about in his Spider costume

We were on our company cruise for Beckett's first Halloween. Not my favorite, but he had lots of fun with Grandma Whatcott! I am very behind on posting so I will most likely forgo the cruise post (we only took like 5 pics) and all the other random things that have been going on lately and skip right to Thanksgiving. Can't wait! Gobble Gobble

FUNNY FRIDAY

2010-10-08T18:23:00.000-07:00

http://hyperboleandahalf.blogspot.com/2010/04/alot-is-better-than-you-at-everything.html

This post is full of awesome.

I recently discovered this blog and have NEVER laughed so hard! Enjoy!

THIS LITTLE MAN

2010-10-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

Can you even believe that little face?! Daddy and Beckett matching for church. LOVE THEM!

You moms..

2010-09-22T18:19:00.000-07:00

Alright all of you moms...

who work all day (inside or outside the home)

get all of your laundry done

make dinner every night

raise exceptional babies

make it everywhere on time

workout everyday

somehow keep up your social life

get ready every day....

AND keep your house clean

Knock it off... you're making me look bad ;)

Pump and Dump

2010-09-09T17:03:00.000-07:00

I usually don't go around thinking "This would make a GREAT blog post!" But when I had this experience, I knew I needed to share it with the world.

I went back to work 4 weeks after having little Beckett. As hard as it was (and still is) to leave him every day, I know that I am doing something for him by pumping at work.

Yes, it's a pain. Yes, its inconvenient. And yes, I have to sit in the bathroom to do it.

In the basement where I work there are only 3 girls that are there during the day. So, I usually don't run into anyone during my pumping time. Occasionally, however, someone from the bank will come down to use our bathroom. Now, why do you think someone would come all the way down stairs to use a bathroom when they have 2 perfectly good bathrooms upstairs right next to their office? You guessed it! To poop...

So I am sitting in the handicapped stall on my little office chair with my pump chugging away... and I hear heels enter the bathroom. All three of the ladies that I work with are not the heel wearing type. I knew it was someone from the bank. Oh no.

Imagine for a moment, if you will:

You have had a long day at the office. You get that gurgling in your stomach and know you've gotta go. So you truck to the "basement bathroom" to take care of business in anonymity and privacy. But when you get there... you notice someone is already there. You see a bright orange extension cord trailing from the wall by the sinks to the handicapped stall. And you hear a weird sound that doesn't appear to be ending anytime soon.

So OF COURSE.. logically- the decision would be made to enter the stall right next to the occupied one. And instead of just emptying your bladder and holding your poo until you got home (LIKE A NORMAL PERSON) you proceed to grunt and push and plop to your heart's content. Exiting the bathroom in a whirlwind that sends the stench of your recent activities directly into the stall of the poor horrified girl sitting on a chair in the corner milking herself.

AWESOME.

New life

2010-07-22T14:21:00.000-07:00

♥It is amazing how much life can change in one single instant. How much you thought you knew... now realizing you had no idea.
What a miracle we have in our lives now.
We are blessed beyond any thing either one of us thought was possible.
It is so miraculous how much joy our little, sleepy, poopy, man brings into our lives
We are so in love ♥

Introducing Beckett James Nelson

2010-07-15T22:59:00.000-07:00

It seemed appropriate to write this post on my due date. And so I begin...
It all started one unassuming Tuesday. I left work (taking my husband's car to save on gas) thinking that it would be a very routine prenatal visit so there was no need for Nick to come along. Little Squishy (as he was still known) has turned the week before and I was paranoid that he had flipped his little butt back around so I asked my doctor if she would do an ultrasound just to make sure we were in good condition. Before the ultrasound, the nurse pulled out the Doppler and listened for heart tones... what I heard scared me half to death. I heard his little heart slow way down for a good 5 seconds. Then it picked back up to it's normal 150-160 bpms... and then slowed back down again. At this point the nurse had a concerned look on her face and I was near tears (my hubby being back at the office and not there to comfort my mounting fears and paranoia) So the doctor came in with the ultrasound and we took a look at our little guy. My fluid was low. Scary low. That, coupled with the dip in his heart tones was enough for her to say the "i" word... induction.I have very strong feelings about the type of prenatal care provided in this couty. I feel like so many of the things that happen are unnecessary. You can see the chain of events that occur when one intervention starts and SO often results in a c-section. I feel like most times your body knows how to have a baby, it knows when it is time and your baby knows when it is time. It seems to unfair to YANK them out when they so very obviously are not ready. Obviously there are circumstances where the health of the baby or mother is at significant risk and there needs to be a medical intervention, but more often than not it happens regardless. Needless to say, I was very hesitant about being induced. And I was in shock (aforementioned husband being absent).
I called Nick to tell him that our doctor had decided it would be best to induce labor and get our little man out TODAY. Things never happen the way you think they will... I had his car, he didn't have keys to mine, he was stuck at work in Orem, and I was on my way to American Fork hospital in a daze. Not exactly how I had envisioned my Tuesday going!Once I got to the hospital I got all settled into my room. I was excited and nervous and anxious to begin using the techniques I had studied for so many weeks in preparation for our birth. I didn't have my ipod and I had left my good headphones at work. I felt so unprepared! I used my hypnosis to relax and by the time Nick made it up to the hospital I was at ease and ready to go! When he finally brought my ipod to me... it was dead. This was the single most important tool to me at this point because it had all of my birthing scripts on it... whew, this day was starting a little rough.
They started the pitocin around 3:30. I had asked my doctor to hold off on breaking my water because I wanted to being this process as naturally as possible. Our sweet little man had not yet dropped and I was dilated to a 2 being 70% effaced. I wanted to give my body the opportunity to do what it needed to do in as natural a way as possible. So, we then began the nightmare that is pitocin... They had me up to max dose within the hour and the pressure waves (contractions) were coming full swing every 2 minutes. We had a little hiccup when the iv started unloading in my tissue instead of my veins and the medicine stopped working. The nurse had to give me a new iv (she unsuccessfully attempted 4 separate times before finally getting it going again) So we got back up to max dose and I was able to get comfortably into hypnosis. After about 8 hours with very little progress, I agreed to let my doctor break my water. This really got things going and 4 hours later I was to a 5. My husband was so amazing throughout everything. He was so attentive and helped to relieve the back labor that I was having. He made sure I had enough to drink (and we even snuck a little food). I can NOT imagine having done this amazing thing without his tremendous support! I am so lucky to be married to such an amazing man!
Now this is where I am hesitant to continue. Inevitably as soon as someone hears we had the baby the first question they ask is "Did Blaire get an epidural?" While I absolutely understand this question because most people know we were trying for a natural un-medicated birth... It still gives me pause. My birth experience was not what I had planned. They never are. It was a very emotional and often times spiritual experience for me. I do not feel I need to justify in any way the way that things happened. I feel that it would take away from the beautiful experience that my husband and I had welcoming our baby into this world. I do not regret anything or wish that things had been different because we had our experience for a reason.After 12 hours of pitocin induced labor, I requested an epidural. I was exhausted. It was such sweet relief and I am so grateful. After an hour or so of rest and continued hypnosis, the epidural wore off on my left side. I continued to use the things I had learned for another 5 hours before requesting the anesthesiologist to come and fix the dang thing so I could have a break! Another 4 hours and I was ready to push. Because I had the epidural I unfortunately was not in the position that I wanted to be, but an hour later our baby boy was born! Nick was right there to catch him, cut the cord and give him his first diaper. He also gave him his first bath and watched the nurses like a hawk to make sure they were extra gentle with our sweet baby.
7.02 lbs, 21 inches, born at 12:55pm July 7th, 2010. Full head of dark brown wavy hair with beautiful blue eyes. What a sight to behold. It was so surreal. It IS so surreal. To carry this amazing squirmy child for 9 long months and then to be able to look down at their unbelievably perfect face... amazing.

Spinning Baby

2010-06-30T09:11:00.000-07:00

HE TURNED!

Holy miracle.

Now it is a waiting game and I can't wait!

Maybe baby

2010-06-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

Breech.

I now very strongly dislike that word.

Our baby does not want to be upside down for some reason... it has really thrown us for a loop. We were planning on a natural un-medicated birth using Hypnobabies (the most amazing program). We thought we were all geared up and ready to go... until at our last OB appointment they pulled out the ultrasound "just to be sure." I feel so silly for mourning the loss of a beautiful natural birthing experience. I feel so selfish to have so much and to be so blessed and to almost be angry. We have tried everything we could to get this baby to turn and we find out today if it worked. I am so anxious. I truly know that no matter what, no matter how this little guy makes it into this world- we are SO blessed. And once he is here, it won't be of any consequence how.

I am so lucky to have the husband that I do. One who is SO supportive in the face of all my crazy ideas and theories. One who notices when I get that look and I am thinking about something too deeply so he makes me laugh. Our baby is so lucky to have him for a daddy and I can't wait to see them meet.

WISH US LUCK!

ohhhh baby baby

2010-06-16T13:50:00.001-07:00

We do not yet know what we will call our baby.

People, for some reason, think we are lying about this fact.

I wish we were not... only 29 days to go! :)

Spring Granola

2010-04-23T14:50:00.001-07:00

I am so excited for Spring to be here! I never realized how much I missed the sun until this year! I'll go out on the porch in the mornings before work and just sit. It would be helpful if I had a chair... but I don't care. I LOVE basking in the sun! Along with this beautiful weather (it has to stay eventually RIGHT?!) I am excited about another awesome thing that Spring brings.... Farmer's Markets!

I guess you could call me a little granola... considering I'm vegetarian, intend to cloth diaper our baby, and intend to have a natural child birthing experience with Hypnobabies.... I wouldn't consider myself "green" or a "hippie" but people love labels... so let em slap em on me! ;) Anywho, the purpose of this run on is to lead into this new website that I found.

I have never been a member of a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) but it sounds like a wonderful way to support local farmers and eat yummy healthy food! Has anyone had an experience with being a member of a CSA? I would love to hear feedback! If you want to find out more about a CSA or farmer's markets in your area... check out the above website.

AND LET'S GET EXCITED FOR SPRING!!!

Under 100, and still 1000 things to do....

2010-04-08T13:16:00.000-07:00

As much as I told myself I would not just talk about my pregnancy all the time on my blog when the time came... Oops, it just happens! We are SO excited to be under the "triple-digits days left" mark. I cannot believe that I am in my 26th week already!! It has been so great that now Nick can feel our little squishy move and kick. The other day he leaned down to put his ear on my belly to see if he could hear the heartbeat (I know, he's silly) and our little boy KICKED him right in the ear. It was such a special moment Nick and I got to share. Especially since our doctor told us that our baby's feet are HUGE. :) Sometimes it seems unfair that I get to feel everything and my sweet hubby is just an outsider... But then I remember that I get to feel EVERYTHING and I realize that Heavenly Father had to give us women some sort of amazing-ness to help us get through this!

What a whirlwind we have been on lately!! I feel like time has swooped down and grabbed my feet from under me! But we are just along for the ride, so it's been okay. Our house was delayed a week... but I suppose that is what you get when you build. Our official close date is this next Tuesday the 13th! Nick and I walked through the other day and WE ARE SO EXCITED! Walking through the house and seeing it along every step of the way (from foundation up) made me realize something about myself... I am not a good "envisioner." I hope this is only applicable to home building and not every area of my life. But WOW what a difference it makes when cabinets are in, walls are up and doors are on. I could actually see us living there and raising our little family.

We have so many exciting things going on right now! It is so easy to zone in on the stress and complain... but I refuse to do that! We are blessed beyond our understanding. Although it is so much all at the same time, how lucky are we to be in a place where we are ABLE to go through so much at the same time. We really are trying to enjoy the ride and just be grateful!

And I know I know... pics of belly and the house are soon to come. They are hanging out on my camera...

Gulp....

2010-03-30T15:37:00.000-07:00

I feel HUGE.... How is this baby going to grow to 6 or 7 TIMES the size he is now?!... There is no more room... Heaven help me....

Waste

2010-03-18T19:47:00.000-07:00

How easy is it to waste a day?
People always talk about wanting "just one more day" but what do we really do with the days we do have? With the sand already inside our hourglass?
How simple for time to be so sneaky... for us to be so unproductive. (Especially when you factor in modern technology and it's beckoning call!)
I think that is why I hate twilight so much- the 'inbetween'. The dimming brightness that signifies an end. The eerie feeling of no more time and the emanate realization that you are where you are. It is often at the end of my day- when I realize it is almost done- that I wish I would have done more. That's when I make my lists, my plans, my promises to myself, for the next day. And so it must be with the end of our lives- we don't realize all that we didn't get to do until it's no longer an option for us to do it.
I thought about that this afternoon while making a snack. I was cutting cheese to go along with my tart Granny Smith Apple (it deserves to be capitalized) I was cutting from a very large block of cheese (5 pounds or so) I cut off the first layer to toss out because someone hadn't sealed the bag properly and the cheese was a little crusty. I didn't think anything of tossing this cheese in the garbage (or giving it to my dog) because there was still so much left. But then the thought occured to me- there wouldn't always be. Soon it would be almost gone. And then- no part would be wasted. Each morsel would be savored. I hope that I can remember not to waste my cheese- no matter how big I may think my block is.

Two Things...

2010-03-10T22:39:00.000-08:00

1. What the Chuck Norris.... is SEVENTY?!?!?!
2. Cory Haim died and all anyone is talking about is how sad it must be for Corey Feldman...

That is all.

Preggy Preg Preg

2010-02-27T09:45:00.000-08:00

I have learned so much. Read tons and tons of articles, many books, and listened to many podcasts on pregnancy. Now, most of these things that I have read have been factual and upfront about all of the joys (I use this word extremely loosely, like an old women's neck skin loosely) that accompany building a little person and bringing them into this world. But, I would have to say that my favorite things to read are the blog posts of my fellow preggers. For two reasons... one, it is nice to know that I am not the only one who feels like my body has been taken hostage by devilish aliens who enjoy torturing me in the most bizarre ways... and two, because my experience, for the most part, is so much different from theirs. Let me explain. I have NEVER had as much stress in my life as I do at this very moment. From customizing a new home, finding a lender, purchasing that home, working 6 days per week, dealing with EXTREME family issues, living with said family, growing a baby, worrying about every little ache and pain (and are there ever a LOT to choose from), and just normal everyday things, like not forgetting my loving husband's existence, and nurturing our relationship. (I know that was the world's largest run on sentence) (I'm pregnant, gimme a break ;) And I have an anxiety disorder for which I am unable to take medication, due to my 'current state.' So... I have a lot of stressors ( I know, who doesn't?!) but the strange thing... I am ok. I am completely stable* I have not had a breakdown, meltdown, throw down, kick down, or any other down... I am still mildly stressed out but no where near where I would be 5 months ago with all of this going on. Here is my theory: My body and hormones were out of whack before baby and now I'm normal. Bwaha. So, although it may seem grossly unfair to those whose hormones are CRAZY since becoming pregnant, take pity on me and my husband... I only have 9 months of sanity :)

*If my husband says anything to contradict the above statements, he is unstable... I think it's the pregnancy ;)

Distracted Driving

2010-02-18T16:57:00.000-08:00

I want to rant for a minute on this article...
I think that we forget how much power we have when we get behind the wheel of a vehicle. It is such a responsibility that is so easy to forget because it is something we do every day, many times a day. But the one thing I do not understand is people who text or surf the net while driving. WHY?! What is so danged important that it cannot wait until your car is safely parked. Or at least until you get to a stop light? For heaven's sakes we are attached to our phones 24/7. A little break from them once in a while should be a good thing, not the end of the world. I have read numerous articles that have found that texting while driving is just as, if not more, dangerous than driving while intoxicated. Would you drive drunk?
Just something to think about the next time you are behind the wheel and you hear your phone beckoning you...

Almost Halfway There!

2010-02-15T21:12:00.000-08:00

Here at 16 weeks 6 days

This pregnancy is flying by. I can't believe I am almost half way! (18 Weeks 5 days) There are so many new, strange, and exciting things going on. (with my body) :) It is so amazing to see and feel my belly swelling, to feel those first tiny kicks that feel so much like muscle twitches, to see how amazing my relationship is with my loving husband. It makes me so anxious to see him as a dad. He has been SO attentive and caring. Knowing exactly what I need and when to snap me back to reality. ;) I am so lucky to have that man. This pregnancy has brought us so close, has brought a whole new level of beauty to our lives together. You never know what changes life altering events will cause until you dive head first into them. And boy did we dive!!
How can I describe the joy of carrying a child? It is something that I truly never thought I would be able to experience. But it has changed my life. Absolutely and completely. It is so easy to feel Heavenly Father near when you are growing a life inside of you. It is so amazing to know that our little baby is not all the way with us right now, that he is in a beautiful place full of love. The contrast between that glorious existence and the ugliness of this world is almost devastating to think about. When I think about all of the things that children are exposed to today, all of the horrendous things we do to one another, it absolutely terrifies me to bring a beautiful, perfect baby into it. And there are times that I think of the many wonderful opportunities that we have in these days and it excites me because there is no limit to his potential. We live in a FREE country, we have a living breathing prophet who guides us through these scary times, we have a loving God who is THERE for us, we have no boundary to the things that we can accomplish. It makes me remember there is a plan... There is a reason, and we can survive and thrive.

I am so excited to meet our little guy. To see his beautiful face, to hear his little voice, to see his personality develop. It is so easy to want to get ahead of yourself during a pregnancy. I am always so excited to read week by week what is going on with our little squishy (and my body) It is so hard for me not to read the week ahead... But I need to remember how blessed I am to be able to protect this sweet innocent spirit for the next 21 1/2 weeks. All of the backaches, leg cramps, belly aches, headaches, neck pains, mood swings, nausea, heartburn, sleepless nights... I would take it 100 fold for this blessing. But please don't ask me to ;) I think through out this first half of my pregnancy, my overall feeling is gratitude. How grateful I am that Heavenly Father thinks that Nick and I are worthy of one of his beautiful spirit children. It is so humbling. We are so blessed.

Here at 17 weeks 3 days

I shall call him Squishy...

2010-01-12T15:45:00.000-08:00

....and he shall be mine. And he shall be my Squishy

We are 14 weeks :0)

Christmas 2009

2010-01-07T21:00:00.001-08:00

A Christmas in pictures...

Christmas morning breakfast casserole...
Vegetarian and non-veg

Eating Breakfast and enjoying Nick's thrilling story

After a delicious breakfast, a little ping pong action. Where, of course, Nick dominated.

Then we opened presents! I'm not going to lie, it is one of my favorites because it brings back memories and I love to watch people open the things we have thought long and hard about getting them.

All the family came into town and was able to enjoy a DELICIOUS Christmas feast

All the Jolley wives!

And momma Jolley with her handsome boys!

My handsome hubby by our beautiful tree

Of course, as long winded as I am, I cannot truly just leave it to a picture post. How much do we have to be grateful for during this Christmas time?! More than you know ;) Heavenly Father has been watching over us way more than we deserve. But it is so touching to know that He is there, He does care, and He does have a plan. More important than anything though is remembering the birth of His son. I am so lucky that I have the family that I do because growing up, while giving and receiving presents was a part of Christmas, those are not the things that stick out to me. It is the music, the magical feeling, the charity that every year we took part in, the wonderful meals, the wonderful conversation, and the beautiful spirit that was always invited into my parent's home. It is so crazy the things that you look back on once you are an adult and appreciate in disbelief that you did not appreciate it growing up. Crazy teenagers ;) This year we had the "2nd Annual William Nuckols Musical Extravaganza" In honor of my mother's father. It was so great to share in those things as a family that brings the true spirit of Christmas into your heart. My heart is so full, although December 25th was 13 days ago, of love and gratefulness. Hope your holiday season was as blessed!

Thanksgiving 2009

2010-01-05T19:57:00.001-08:00

This year has gone by unbelievably fast. We have had so many wonderful opportunities to travel and spend time with family and each other. This holiday season was one of the best ever. We were able to go down to St. George for Thanksgiving and on the way we stopped by in Kanosh to visit Nick's grandparents and mom. It was SO great to see them, it does not happen often enough! Here are a few shots of our time with the family. They had a few of the family members over to celebrate Thanksgiving and it was great!

It was nice to get out of the cold and head down south to St. George. Nick is so sweet for always driving (and how sweet am I for always falling asleep?) The drive down was beautiful and, as usual, I forgot to take pictures. Actually in looking through the pictures on my camera, I realized I forgot to take pictures of the entire weekend! OOps. But I did get plenty from Christmas, so I figure I can be absolved of that little sin... We were lucky enough to have most of the Christmas and New years weeks off so Nick and I were able to spend Christmas with my family and then for New Years we took another trip down to (not quite) warm St. Geroge! I know, I know we are roadies.. Well, not really, but you know what I mean. My hubby is waiting to read with me, so I will do our Christmas post tomorrow. You should be excited... :0)

Make Mine Freedom

2009-12-02T18:41:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine sent this to me a little while ago in an email and I decided on a whim to watch it. I loved it. I know it isn't Independence Day or Memorial Day, but this time of the year makes me think about all of the things I am grateful for. And one of the things that time and time again tops my list is the freedom and prosperity we enjoy living in this wonderful country. I don't think it is possible for us to truly understand how blessed we are to have the freedoms we enjoy, but I like to try to remember. Happy watching! ;)

Better late than never

2009-11-21T14:21:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where the time has gone! I cannot believe that summer is over and Thanksgiving is fast approaching! Things are going well. Nick and I have settled into a routine that seemed to be missing the past few months. Work is going well and time is flying by! We are excited to be in a position to save up to buy a house. We recently purchased a new SUV which will be so nice when the babies come... hopefully in the near future. It is amazing how things work out when you work hard and have faith that the things you cannot control will be ok. I love this time of year. I love the crisp air, the family gatherings, the atmosphere of love that seems to surround everything. I have been so emotional lately but I think that's what fall does. :) I know that I have a lot of updating to do but I want to go join my precious hubby on the couch playing Mario Wii (best.game.ever) So I bid you adieu and leave you with one little picture... of Nick and I during dinner one night of the NorthStar cruise this year!

Where do I begin?

2009-08-11T23:51:00.000-07:00

Well. I missed the 4th, I missed chronicling the move, I missed our anniversary and I forgot to take pictures of our camping trip. Yay! Not really. I have a TON of pics from recently... so I will Start with the 4th of July I suppose and hold you in suspense for the other goodies in store ;)

Independence Day
Any holiday (or get together.. or day, really) at the Jolley Home involves food. Copious amounts of food. It's a tradition really... and who am I to object? Needless to say this Independence day was celebrated with a culinary smorgasbord* of delights. Here is a light sampling of what the day had to offer:

My glorious Veggie Kabobs (from popsicle's garden)

Grilled Pineapple with a brown sugar glaze
(he is so excited for this pic no?)

In the Jolley House, no one eats until everyone arrives
(at least mom thinks so)
and everything looks perfect. So naturally we have a few who are dying to eat!
And one goof ball. Naturally...

"Oh, you're waiting for me?!"

ANd of course, right before we could begin the beautiful meal...
I made Dad take a picture :)Menu
Veggie Kabobs
Veggie Dogs
Corn on the Cob
Green Salad
Array of Fruit
Potato Salad
Hot Dogs
Hamburgers
Frog-Eyed Salad
Juices
And all the fixin's

I must say how lucky we are to live in such a wonderful country. We get to wake up everyday and decide what we do. We. are. free. Thank you to those fighting for that freedom we so often take for granted. Bless those who were not able to celebrate the way we were.
It was a wonderful day and I am so grateful I was able to spend it with my AMAZING family. We are truly the ones who laugh all night, eat until we puke, and love each other unconditionally. Add a perfect hubby to the crazy mix... what more could you want? Maybe some more food?

*I spelled that right the first time. You should be impressed.

A little off my game...

2009-07-13T17:03:00.001-07:00

Pictures and details of the fourth to come shortly... I am such a slacker. :/

... Just watch it....

2009-07-07T14:38:00.001-07:00

MUTO a wall-painted animation by BLU from blu on Vimeo.

Goooooooooooooooooallll(s)

2009-06-30T15:27:00.000-07:00

The last couple of nights I have been unable to sleep for some reason. I usually toss and turn (quite literally) (it usually rouses Nick from his slumber a few times per night) until I get somewhat comfortable at which point I think I will be able to doze off. But... no. My mind is still very uncomfortable and thinking thoughts that only women do... worry, worry, worry. Well I decided last night that instead of just laying there and thinking about all the things I have to do, accomplish or otherwise take care of- that I was going to make a list BEFORE I tried to get comfortable. (Brilliant idea, right?) So, I was thinking about what this list was going to be comprised of... I started doodling. Well tracing really... I am not an artist in the slightest. Then I started reading. (Easily distracted... who? Me, no way not me, I...)
So I finally decided to get down to business, and with notebook and pen in hand I proceeded to produce this list of goals I hope to obtain by October (3 months away)

Health
* Eat my 2 servings of fruit and 3 servings of veggies 5-7 days per week
* Exercise for at least 60 minutes 4-6 days per week
* Drink at most 2 CZs (that's coke zero for you non-heathens) per week
* Get to sleep by 10:00-10:30 4-7 days per week

Spiritual
* Pray nightly
* Read my scriptures 3 times a week (baby baby baby steps)

Mind

* Read at least 5 books and write one page on each (I know, I am giving myself homework) (who does that?!)
* Decide on school and career track (I think I finally decided!!) (More on that later) distracted

Marriage
* Read one book on relationships with Nick and each write one page (no, our marriage is perfect, but it will be fun and I have to find some way to force Nick to read!) :o) (really: p-e-r-f-e-c-t)

Money
* Move in with mom and dad (They are beyond kind to allow us, as nuts and loud as we are to live with them for a little while) Well they're Jolley's.. they get the nuts and loud part ;)
* Put budget into motion to save for a house!

Random, just to be better:
* Be EARLY to work most days of the week---- Those who know me are dying. And I am in pain too, but it is time to change this pestering habit and I WILL SURPAss! (Nick will love it)

So there it is for all to see. Hold me accountable, call me out, bug me about it. I need it. Heaven knows I lose interest in things faster than a person ever should. But I think I have made these goals sufficiently challenging while enabling myself to obtain them. I think it is just too easy to fall into the ease of a routine life. It is too easy to stop trying to be better day after day. And while it is most certainly a fine line to walk so you are able to be satisfied with where you are in life and wanting to be better, I am hoping that this list will help me to achieve all that I can (or at least get me on the path) with this short time we are allotted here on planet Earth.

Wouldn't you know it.... I still couldn't sleep.

Crap.

Edward Tape Hands

2009-06-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

No, I am not flipping you off... This is what my husband does at work when he gets bored.
So sweet.

And so proud

(Ps sorry about the quality, taken from my phone)

Oh Calvin!

2009-06-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

Love love love love this!

Hungry?

2009-06-04T11:45:00.001-07:00

Never mind the date... Here is proof my husband does not eat just Little Caesars pizza and bread sticks

(In case you were wondering, that is the best chili in the world and yes it's vegetarian! :)

I also made these yummie Orange Cream Cheese Cookies, which I may or may not have devoured as soon as the picture was taken...

P.s. hopefully by the year 2160, we will only have to think about the food we want and ((poof)) there you go. Oh, and by then hopefully I'll have a better camera.

Oh my Dolphin....

2009-05-29T12:23:00.000-07:00

This is just awful...

http://www.savejapandolphins.org/covetrailer.php

Divine

2009-05-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

Now I am stalking my own blog, I know, but I just read this article and felt so compelled to post this. It was undeniably something I needed to hear right now. What an inspired woman. I am so grateful for her eloquence and the way she is able to put her beautiful thoughts into words.

Go Here

Hopefully, someone somewhere will also benefit from these divinely inspired words.

Love

Blogstalker.... Yep, It's probably you.

2009-05-21T13:12:00.000-07:00

People who don't comment but constantly blog stalk annoy me.

That is all.
(I may or may not have been guilty of this at one time or another)

Because, really, what good is a blog without comments to validate me?

Just a few reasons I love the crap out of this man I call my husband....

2009-05-19T18:02:00.000-07:00

He is secure with his masculinity

He is very photogenic

He is very resourceful when chopping onions

So glad I get to be with him ALL THE TIME!

(I know you're jealous, it's ok I would be too)

On the positive side...

2009-05-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

Sometimes being a girl is not very fun-tastic. Especially "that time" (which lets face it I, of all people, should be happy that it happens) But I choose to look on the bright side....

I get to wear these:

And one of these:

And I get to put this on my lips *tingle*

And my most favorite is putting one of these on everyday!
(okay so maybe that's not what mine looks like .. don't judge me)

Things are moving along

2009-05-05T16:30:00.000-07:00

Nick is done with school!!! (Pictures of the grad and his surprise party to follow shortly) He is going Pro!!! And we are trying to figure out what in the world we are going to do with our immediate future. We are on the brink of huge life changes and it both excites and scares us! One thing we are sure about is that we are staying in Utah for at least the summer! After that, we do not really know...Nick has been playing extraordinarily wonderful golf lately (( he played nine holes today and shot a 30!! That is UNBELIEVABLE!!)) It is very exciting! I am going to do everything that I can to start school up again (even if we can only afford one class). I think I have narrowed down my career path considerably (only about 10 options now), and as I continue with school I am hoping it will become more clear. And as a side note, I am so baby hungry I can't even stand it. It is all I think about. I have dreams about finally getting preggers or being with our baby all the time. I turn into a crooked faced fool who speaks in a pitch so high some dogs can't even hear every time I see one! I swear the parents run away as fast as possible with their little munchkins so I don't eat them. I thought I was over this for at least a year... not. even. close. Kill me! Or give me a baby! ;)

Why yes, I speak Engrish....

2009-04-29T13:27:00.000-07:00

In addition to Failblog.org ((which, let me warn you , may be quite raunchy at times)) We at the office keep ourselves busy, quite productively let me add, with Engrish.com. Yes, you read that one right. It. is. hilarious! It is a compilation of things translated into english from another language (usually asian) Here are a few of my favs!

Because apparently the hole wasn't conducive for gripping....

With the title
"What would your mother say if she saw you here..."

I have no idea...
From Japan

Apparently being a monkey is a bad thing...
Personally, I would love to be a monkey... as long as no one did testing on me. I probably wouldn't look good with lipstick on if I was a monkey.
Agian in Japan.

With the title
"Mickey left us a message!"

Title inappropriate.With just a touch of pepper and assault.
((probably referring to rape seed oil))

I have no idea what the intentioned meaning was, but I am frightened...

Oh please, tell me something goods!

This is one of my favorites
Not only is it utter babble with no coherent thought present, but it is a stationary set!
Stationary!

But my ultimate favorite:

FailBlog

2009-04-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

I recently started working again ((yay!!)) And due to the fact that our sales reps are not all out to their areas, the credit department where I work is not very busy. Suffice it to say I have kept myself extremely entertained with the discovery of this wonderful little gem of a web site: Failblog.org And here are some of my favorite pictures from said website... Enjoy!

see more pwn and owned pictures

see more pwn and owned pictures

see more pwn and owned pictures

see more pwn and owned pictures

Pretty sure Nick would do this with his clubs! :0)

see more pwn and owned pictures
see more pwn and owned pictures

see more pwn and owned pictures

see more pwn and owned pictures

And my favorite of all time:

see more pwn and owned pictures

Hahahahahaha! Happy Saturday everyone!

Thoughts... Deep Thoughts

2009-03-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

Thoughts are Things
Henry Van Dyke

I hold it true that thoughts are things;
They're endowed with bodies and breath and wings;
And that we send them forth to fill;
The world with good results, or ill

That which we call our secret thought
Speeds forth to earth's remotest spot,
Leaving its blessings or its woes
Like tracks behind it as it goes.

We build our future, thought by thought,
For good or ill, yet know it now.
Yet, so the universe was wrought
Thought is another name for fate;
Choose, then, thy destiny and wait.
For love brings love and hate brings hate.

___________________________________________________________

Author Unknown

"Into the hands of every individual is given a marvelous power for good or evil- the silent, unconscious, unseen influence of his life. This is simply the constant radiation of what a man REALLY is, not what he PRETENDS to be... Life is a state of constant radiation and absorption; to exist is to radiate; to exist is to be the recipient of radiation.
Men cannot escape for one moment from this radiation of his character, this constant weakening or strengthening of others. He cannot evade the responsibility by saying it is an unconscious influence. He can select the calmness, trust, generosity, truth, justice, loyalty, nobility- make them vitally active in his character-and by these qualities he will constantly affect the world."

I do not know too much right now

2009-02-24T01:58:00.000-08:00

It's late and I can't sleep. Poor Nick, I hope my nail tapping doesn't wake him up. I do not know why I am posting right now... I guess I am hoping it will make me tired. I think I know what is keeping me awake: Uncertainty. I do not know too much right now. So much of my life is just so uncertain. With Nick's golf career, where we will be living when he graduates, what I want to do with my life, our current situation regarding children, my unemployment, my stupid and annoying health issues. It is a tough time. I know we are so blessed to have all this opportunity, don't get me wrong, I am not ungrateful... just stressed.

It is amazing how much choice screws with my head. I don't really like it. I would rather have 2 or 3 options and my life would be much easier. I mean really.. it doesn't matter what I am choosing... the more my options, the longer it takes me, and the more confused I get. Take candy: If we go to a gas station to get a treat I sit there staring at the enormous wall of sugar for at least 10 mins. Drives Nick crazy... And then I usually pick 3 or 4 things and then narrow it down more and then finally make my decision with Nick pushing me (and my usually completely opposing options) to the register, all the while I am looking back at the vacant candy section thinking " Was this the right choice?!?! Nooooo!!!" Don't even get me started on Grocery store candy AISLES ( huh?! A whole hallway of candy?!) I know a little dramatic for something as simple as candy. But it is true. Ask my DH.

But back to my original thoughts... I just love analogies and I get side tracked more easily than a kitten... aww kitten.. oh sorry... it absolutely amazes me how lucky we are to be here in this great land of opportunity, literally ANYTHING you want to be... you are able to! Now the nagging question is this: what do I want to be?

A psychologist, a movie director, doctor, personal trainer, actor, cosmetologist, lawyer, journalist, PR exec, teacher, author, owner of a random business, accountant, biologist, therapist, scientist, computer programmer, advertising executive, mom... yup I think I will be that!

Huh? I dunno.

I find it so incredibly difficult to tie myself down to one thing. Or even two. You would think that at the ripe old age of 23 going on 40 (ha) I would know more about me and where I want to be.... And yet, again... I do not know too much right now. Looking at my resume, one would think I am suffering from a severe case of MPD. Alas.. it is just me being confused, getting bored and yearning to find my TRUE niche in life. I have such a passion for so many things (none to be out done by my love for Nick) :0) and yet am somehow unable to funnel that furry of intense-ness to one specific thing. Ahh! Where do I go from here?

I think a big part of all of this identity-crisis mode is that we have finally arrived at the monumental time of Nick's Pro-Golf career begining!! He is going to Q-school for the Canadian Tour in either APRIL (if he feels he is prepared) or August. That is incredibly soon, and given my current state I might just faint. This is going to introduce a whole 'nother level of uncertainty into our little lives. Traveling every week, having money depend exclusively on level of performance, moving away from family so golf can be played year round, getting sponsors... so sso so many more things I haven't thought about yet, but I think my mind is sufficiently occupied with these current worries... Not really worries... more apprehensions.

I do not know too much right now.

I am lucky though. To live in a place and time where my biggest worry in life is having to many options. Having too many avenues of success to choose from. I know that, for me anyways, one of the only ways to get out of self pity or a funk is to get outside my self. And that is not an easy thing to do... but if you are constantly looking at the bad or stressful or depressing or ((insert negative adjective here)) side of things that is ALL you will see. Take a step back, re-evaluate, and realize that you are lucky and are still able to help other people. SO, my goal, now made public (since so many people read my blog :p) is to truly do some service this week. I will volunteer at the animal shelter, I will make some cookies for the inspiring widow across the street from my mom, I will send flowers to my grandma... okay so maybe service isn't the right word for my goal... but I want to recognize how blessed I am. How blessed we are. How I can still do things to bring joy into this world.

Sorry, I will step off my soap box now, but I feel better. I may not know too much right now, but I do know that this world is a beautiful place and I am in love with the most amazing man... I have a feeling everything else will fall into place.

VaLeNtInEs

2009-02-14T21:05:00.000-08:00

Love is more than three words mumbled before bedtime. Love is sustained by action, a pattern of devotion in the things we do for each other every day.

Nicholas Sparks

Love doesn't make the world go round, love is what makes the ride worthwhile.
Elizabeth Browning

Love is the joy of the good, the wonder of the wise, the amazement of the gods.
Plato

Happy Valentine's Day baby! I am sad that we can't be together today but I am grateful to have you every day that I can. I am so lucky to be your wife and I appreciate all the sweet things you do for me all the time! Happy Valentine's!

I hope everyone has a great day!

Double Dose of Monday Fun....

2009-01-12T11:46:00.000-08:00

What more can I say? :0) Enjoy!

Christmas!!!

2008-12-23T15:15:00.000-08:00

I would just like to honor the apparatus that has enabled me to listen to Christmas music all day at my office since Halloween.... Oh Pandora, how I love you so!!
If you have not discovered this amazing website you must pull a Lewis and Clark at once! You basically customize your own radio station... It's awesomeness was not done justice in this short plain blog, but now you can experience it for yourself. I give you permission.... Go ahead!

www.pandora.com

Rock on.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Thank goodness for sweet baby Jesus and all that he has done for us..... let us not forget the REASON FOR THE SEASON!

Buying a car? Moving? White sausage Logs?

2008-11-13T13:11:00.000-08:00

Just a little update, and no doubt some insessant rambling... Nick and I are trying to figure out what to do! He graduates in April and will start his professional Golf career soon thereafter, but until then we are kind of stuck. We want to move out of our apartment and into a place of our own, but we are not sure how long we want to stay in Utah ((I've got one foot out the door)) We were thinking about buying a new car since we have no debt (( Sigh of relief)) and I have a great stable job. But we're not sure if we want to incur more expenses... so for the moment, we are stuck! And I won't even get into the baby situation.... I am sure things will work out if we keep working hard!
Other than that we had a fabulous Thanksgiving and SUCH a nice break! We went down south to Saint George to stay with Grandma Jolley, and the WHOLE gang was there! Me, Nick, and Adam are crazy and decided to drive to Prim, just outside of Vegas, at 10:00 on Thanksgiving night to make it for their black Friday sale that started at Midnite. It was fun, until I had horrible pains in my tummy and almost died... I was okay after about 2 hours in the car... fun for the boys I'm sure! We got there right on time... and then realized Vegas is an hour BEHIND Utah... I guess we forgot. So we sat outside a store and watched the people working like we were tigers watching food. It was... long. Then we shopped until 5:30 am (Vegas time) and started the long drive back to St. George. And for some reason I only bought a pair of boots. 12 bucks... I am a high roller. I guess that trip wasn't enough trip inside a trip for us because soon after Nick and I took a nice stay in Mesquite! We had a blast! That is one nice thing about not having kids (since I have no choice but to look on the bright side of this situation) we can be selfish and spontaneous! I love just taking little weekend trips to wherever we want and doing whatever we want. And we have soooo much much fun together! So, our Thanksgiving was like 3 trips in one!
Speaking of Thanksgiving... I didn't know what to eat this year. Last year I just ate all the side dishes and tried not to look at the Turkey and cry. This year, I decided to do something for me... I deserve it! ;0) So I tried a meatless "Turk'y Roast" by Quorn. It looked really pretty gross... like a white sausage... I know... ick! Needless to say I was nervous to have it for the first time on Thanksgiving day. I didn't even know how I was going to cook it. So, the big day came... and I looked at the box for cooking directions for the first time! I decided to use a roasting bag with some Rosemary, Olive Oil and a few other secret spices ;0) It only took 35 Minutes per side to cook and it was ready to eat.... It was with extreme trepidation that I opened that bag...
hmm... smells good.... looks.... bad.. ew. If only I could eat it with my eyes closed. (Not at Grandma's, you open your eyes in 30 seconds to look down at your plate and it's empty) Well, I guess I could taste it... WOAH! It is sooooooooooooooooooo GOOD!

So enough with my reenactment... I was really surprised though! A few of my hard core meat eating cousins tasted it and even liked it. Tasted just like Turkey... I think... It has been a few years. Meh. So long story short... Even if you're not veg, this stuff is the BEST meat replacement product I have ever had. I have tasted them all. They make "ground beef" "chick'n nuggets" "Turk'y Roast" "Chick'n cutlets" and so many others! Try it! save yourself some fat, cholesterol and a few other things! ;)

bye bye

2008-10-28T14:37:00.000-07:00

bye bye

2008-10-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

It has been a few months since my best friend died. I don't know why but she has been on my mind lately. I keep having dreams about her and I miss her so much. We didn't keep in very close contact the last few years of her life and I regret that with all the sorrow of my soul. I just wanted to write a few things about the best friend I have ever known.

Stephanie Dawn Kirpes
I never got to say good bye to you, my dear. I am so sorry for the distance that was there for the last little bit. I can't believe we just lost touch! I never stopped loving you, I never forgot you. I cannot believe you are really gone. When I went to the funeral and saw you lying there... It was so surreal. Like you were going to jump up and laugh because you got us so good. But you never did. When I went to your house, I expected to see your little Saturn in the driveway. The one we took to North Carolina so many times. But it wasn't. I expected to hear you stomping down the stairs just to bugg your mom. You didn't. I miss you my Stephski. I miss our 20 hour conversations and all of the silly and stupid things we used to do....

Remember when you fell down the stairs and landed at the bottom like a rag doll? And then got sooo mad at me when I laughed my butt off and almost fell down behind you? Remember trying to scrub the jean and nail polish marks off of the wall so your mom wouldn't find out and kill you? You were always getting yourself into the craziest predicaments. High school was a blast because of you. Seriously, no one could make me laugh like you!! You were crazy! Like pure EnErGy! Remember our guess who games? Smokey Island? Mailbox? Korn? Trampoline sessions ( you always showed me up punk)? Atari? Moon Ceremonies? Close talkers? Your dad picking us up almost every time we snuck out? Crazy eyes? Bald men? Five bullets? Cheer practice? Sweetie? 4:00 am breakfasts on Saturday? Peaches? It's all about the memories, right?
Good times... good times....
I found where you wrote in my journal in seventh grade the other day. You talked about how we would live next to each other when we got "old" and had babies...haha... You would have been such an amazing mOm. You had so much love to give unconditionally. I just want you to know that I am naming one of my BaBiEs after you sweetheart.
I remember how hard it was to move and to know that we couldn't just run over to each others houses and be dorks. That was so hard on me. My mom told you we were moving before she even let me in on the news! She knew that you were the only one who could tell me that I wouldn't kill. We cried for hours.
I miss you.
I know after high school things got really hard for you. I know that it was a constant struggle for you not to have a few drinks. How I wish I could have been there to hold your hand through that hard time. But, you did it Steph. All by yourself. You found God and realized how much he loved you. You finally realized how freaking special and unique you were. Truly one of a kind.
A treasure.

It was such a shock when your sister told me how you died. Who gets struck by lightning? Only one out of 500,000 people. That's you babe. It's like God reached out of Heaven to bring you home.
They needed you more than us.
Your dad said that the last few months of your life you had truly found a peace inside yourself. I am so grateful. I remember all of our long talks when we would talk about how much Heavenly Father loves you.... you remember? And now you know don't you?
You know.
I know you are taking good care of all of those animals up there!! I know you are in a better place. I know we will see each other again someday. I know Heaven is a much better place now that you are there girlie. Keep 'um laughing and I can't wait to see you.
I love you Steph.
Always.

Things I love....

2008-10-07T16:33:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a moment and talk about some things that I lo0ve!

My Hubby:

What else did you think would be first?! I don't think there is anything about Nick that I would change. He is the perfect husband. Yes, even after two years of wedded bliss (and work, and cleaning, and ((yip)) even arguments) He is that perfect. He is always leaving me sweet notes, getting me beautiful flowers, or surprising me with foot massages... And I'm not even pregnant! He is patient, loving, kind, forgiving, caring, FuNnY, patient, determined, HaRdWoRkInG, gentle, aggressively goes after things he wants, patient, soooo hott, thoughtful, comfortable to be around and did I mention PATIENT?!?! ha ha. He is so patient with me. Through my fits of uncontrollable crying and self pity I have every once in a while, through all the health problems we've come up against, through the financial hardships, through the mood swings and complaining that come with being a girl. It was like he was made for me! He is the ONLY one who could possibly put up with me, let alone LOVE and live with me! Nick, I adore you and our snuggle times. You complete me.

My Family:

We are crazi, it's true! But there is no better time than dinner at the Jolley's! My mom and dad are SUCH AMAZING people! My dad is such a hard worker and never complains when it comes time to put in the effort! And I love watching him with little kids- It always makes me tear up to see how tender he is with them! He is going to be a great grandpa when the time comes (and for him, it can't come soon enough)! My mom is the most LoViNg person I have ever met! She is always a sholder to cry on, there to lend a hand whenever it's needed and she is ALWAYS good for a laugh! I adore her! My siblings are arguably the coolest people around. My little Sis is such a smart girl and an overachiever! I love spending time around her! Little bro is such a stud! The ladies love him and he is soo funny! Big sis and I are starting to rebuild our relationship and it is great! I wouldn't trade my family for any other in the world. What's that saying:
"We might not have it all together, but together we have it all." Yup... that's about right.

Skittles:

I would just like to take a moment to talk about my undying devotion to this sweet little piece of crack... I mean Heaven. I am addicted and I embrace that fact. I need MORE SKITTLES!!!! Muah hahaha...

Birthday Bash

2008-10-04T01:57:00.001-07:00

There has been so much going on!! It has been way to long and some fun things were totally lost to the blogging world! We celebrated our two year anniversary On August 4th in North Carolina! We had a blast and I will post some pictures of that in the very near future! We have since moved back to Utah into our apartment in Orem and have gotten settled into our normal routine. (If there is anything normal about us :) I have a great job working at an accounting firm and Nick is back at it with golf and school. All is well. Here are some pictures of our birthday celebration on Saturday. (Our birthday's are one day apart and Nick was going on a golf trip to California during BOTH of them, so we celebrated before he left!)
Here we are after our night! So tired, in the shirts we bought each other.

In case you were wondering: Nick is now:

And I am :

We got these at The Pizza Factory. It has sort of become a tradition (2 years running) They make you awesome pizzas for free in the shape of your birthday number! I know, I know... we're a little old for all of that, but hey, we're dorks so it works!
We had a great celebration but now we're apart and it stinks! I can't wait until my hubby gets home!

4th Of JuLy

2008-07-31T12:01:00.000-07:00

So, I just realized I didn't post these awesome pictures from the 4th! Our office met up at a local park and played all sorts of sports. We ended with some intense kickball.... Guess who won?! That's right! It was a blast! We were all hot and sweaty but it was the most fun I've had all summer! Luckie almost died though.... I had to tie him up to the fence because he kept running around like a crazy person. Well... one misplaced kick of the kick ball, he had no where to run! It was horrifying! He was ok though! Much to my relief! I wonder if it was really an accident....

Some pictures of our fun day!

Little Cooper was having sooo much fun walking Luckie all over the place. It was the cutest thing ever! He is such a doll!

Aren't they adorable in their matching tanks?! Brandon is ready to play... look at the manly grip he has on the ball!

Just a snapshot of the WINNING TEAM! It was a close game... A rematch might be in order...

Brandon and Wayne and some soccer with Sponge Bob...

The love of my life... hunka hunka! :0)

Blaire is obsessed with Luckie!

2008-07-26T13:47:00.001-07:00

This is a picture I drew of Luckie on Microsoft Paint. I know you digg my sweet skills. You will notice the Robin's Egg Blue collar, and the purple dog tag. He also has a dark streak running down his back, I like to think of it as a racing stripe, because he is like Speedy Gonzales... With all that charm, Luckie boy why, oh, why do you drive Nick loco?!

...........................................................................................................................................................................

Oh kay..... So I really like my dog. But seriously, what kind of animal-loving-vegetarian-tree-hugging-childless- girl would I be if I didn't?! I know it drives Nick crazy... especially when in the middle of the night Luckie some how makes his way into our bed and under Nick's feet... Oh, he just looooves that! So I just wanted to put a little post up of our pride and joy (well, mine at least!) He is just so fricken adorable!

So here is Mr. Luckie pants just hanging out on our bed....

And here he is thinking about getting into my bright red Guess purse... He knows better though!

There are definitely more pictures to come... Of him actually inside one of my huge-o-mongous purses.. I know you all are sitting on pins and needles! Well, I had better get back to work! Gotta love Saturday!

Momma Jolley Visit!

2008-07-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

Things are going well here in Raleigh Towne. And we are missing our families a great deal! Moms seem to be psychic when it comes to that aspect of things....
So, Momma came into town!! Yay! What perfect timing! Blaire has been having some health issues and was finally diagnosed with PCOS. Nick had to go back to Utah to play in the State Am so Blaire was alone! Thankfully Mom flew out! While Momma Jolley was here, Blaire found out that her best friend died in a tragic lightning accident. Luckily things worked out so that her and Nancy could drive up to Va to go to the funeral. It was definitely a blessing and we all know that Heavenly Father was looking out for us. It was a hard thing to deal with, but having the knowledge that we have, there is a peace that comes. It makes you remember not to waste the precious time we have been given here on this earth. You never know when things will change, or how long you're going to be here!

But before all that tragedy struck, we had some fun going out to eat and being goofy! We went to Cheesecake Factory (Blaire's favorite!)

Here is mom when she found a random green bean in her salad!!! Haha, that's where Blaire gets it from!

and here we all are just hanging out... yep, we made the waiter take our picture! Good times!

Mother and daughter! Don't they look alike?!

Pinehurst Golf Trip

2008-06-27T17:49:00.001-07:00

Nick played in the Southern Amateur Championship Qualifier in Pinehurst, North Carolina. For his practice round we played in 100 degree weather with 400 percent humidity! We walked nine holes with a push cart (which Blaire as the loving and dedicated wife pushed). Then we finally decided that we wanted to live to see another hot and sweaty day, so we got a blessed cart!! Here are the pictures we took as we declined!

Here we are as the day began, as you can see from Nick's face he knew what was to come.... and Blaire.... so blissfully ignorant thinking it would just be a great day for some exercise!

About an hour later.... Nick is struggling a little, and Blaire.... trying so hard to keep a smile on her face, the push cart was definately taking it's toll on her gluteus maximus, and minimus, and everything else on her backside!

And here we are... finially coming to our senses and getting a cart! And Nick some food! Yay!! This was the best part of the day! If Blaire had only brought a book to read... oh well, she was definately keeping her self entertained taking pictures of everything that moved... or didn't... but that is for a later post.

The end of the arduous and eventful day! In the car, which somehow was 20 degrees hotter than the outdoors! Doesn't this picture just make you want to golf all day?!

On the golf side of things: Nick played a wonderful practice round, and when it came time for the actual qualifier, he played great. Went into a playoff for a place in the tournament and lost by one stroke! The only tournament that really matters this summer though is the Utah State Am, where Nick will defend his title on July 9th-July15th!! We definitely plan on a win and giving the huge trophy a home for 6 more months!

OUR FIRST POST!!

2008-06-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

So, it has taken us a ridiculously long time to put our first post up, but hopefully it was worth the wait!! :0) We are all settled in North Carolina working hard to achieve our goals. We are with a great company and have had some great experiences being out here in such beautiful surroundings! We miss our family and friends back home so much, but we know that through sacrifice character is built and blessings are received! Our little Luckie boy is doing great, although the thunderstorms scare him half to death! Needless to say he has spend many nights curled up in between us in bed! (Nick just loves that!) Other than work, we have had some fun times at the pool, golfing and working out at the gym. If you can't tell from the above picture ( it might be hard to tell) Nick has gained about 20 pounds of solid muscle since the summer began! :0) We will post some more pictures in the future about our fun times here in Raleigh!