I recently received some comments on this blog from an ex-boyfriend/fiancee that were extremely malicious. It took half a second of research to connect him with the fake name he used to make the comments, which is stupid. If you're going to make those types of personal attacks, have the balls to be up front about it.
I met this guy online back in late 2001, I think. We had an instant connection and our online conversations became long phone calls that were always something I looked forward to. After a few months, he informed me he would be traveling from Japan (he was an air traffic controller in the Navy at the time) to California for a vacation, and we made plans for me to take the month of October 2002 off of work to spend that time with him. I drove from Salt Lake City to LAX and picked him up from his flight - our first in-person encounter. It was awesome to meet him in person. We a couple days visiting some close friends and then went to Joshua Tree National Park to go camping. It was there that he proposed to me in a very thoughtful and creative way. I said yes. Even at that moment, I felt like I was saying yes too soon, and that he proposed too soon, but my personality is such that I am driven to please others. And he was a really great guy. We went to Palm Springs, where he grew up, to visit more of his close friends, and he introduced me to his family. We made our way to Phoenix where he met my family.
My parents are notorious for pointing out the obvious (obvious to everyone except for me, of course) (and it's completely obnoxious), and privately, they expressed their concern about such a quick engagement and not knowing this guy as well as I supposed. Another part of my personality is that when I am told directly what I should do, I dig in my heels and/or run in the opposite direction of the counsel being given. (So dumb, I know.)
We hiked the Grand Canyon with my parents, which was a lot of fun, and during this time, the feeling of discomfort about the engagement began to grow within me. We also camped in Sedona (in a campground we weren't supposed to be at...got a rude awakening from the groundskeepers telling us to get lost!) and did some mountain biking through the beautiful red rock and desert. He had a pretty nice crash and burn on his bike. I remember how much fun that day was. We went to a resort and got day passes for their spa and used that time to soak, steam, and clean up at our leisure. It was lovely.
When we made our way back to California, we stopped to do some camping and hiking at a mountain near Palm Springs. I can't remember the name, but it was a really cool place. I loved how outdoorsy this guy was, and at the time, I was working at Outback Therapeutic Expeditions in Utah, so we truly had a lot in common. On top of that, we had a strong physical attraction to one another, so it was very difficult for me to find clarity in my thoughts and feelings, let alone express them.
By the time we were back in LA, I had let him know that I wasn't so sure about marriage. He was heartbroken, and I was too. I've always yearned for true love and make connections naturally, so it was hard for me to say no.
We continued to talk and correspond after that, but things were definitely different, and the infatuation, for me, was tapering dramatically.
During our trip, he deposited some money into my checking account to use for the trip. When I broke things off, he felt like I owed some of that money back to him. I honestly didn't agree. I had used my car for the entire trip and had taken a whole month off of work. When I wanted to cut the trip short, so I could get back to my job (my funds were running short), he said to use that money to stay on top of bills, so we could continue the trip as planned. The communication seemed very clear to me, and I didn't have a dishonest fiber in me about the whole situation.
Well, I got married in 2003 to someone else. Shortly after getting married, I received a couple emails from this guy, though he used the email joesmith@yahoo or hotmail, and the messages were malicious and threatening. My husband contacted his CO in the Navy and had a pretty strong chat with him to tell this guy to knock it off and let it go. It seemed to work.
I remarried in 2007, and in 2008, my husband now, Patrick, got a motorcycle. I posted on this blog about that day and included pictures, including a nice picture or two of him on the motorcycle driving off from the dealership. I got an anonymous comment on that blog post that was very unkind toward me and toward my husband. I remember part of it said that "anonymous" hoped my hubby would get in a crash and die, since he wasn't wearing a helmet. I couldn't believe what I was reading, but I knew the only person in my life that was malicious toward me enough to make such a comment was this guy that I had been engaged to. Of course, there was no way to prove it, but I knew.
There haven't been any other comments until just recently.
After spending a few weeks thinking about this more than I cared to, I realized I have gone through the 5 Stages of Loss and Grief. His comments were really hurtful after all.
1. Denial
Who would say such unkind things about me? This must be some random prankster. If it isn't, who is this person with the name I didn't recognize? This can't be real.
2. Anger
Seriously?! This guy is still hung up on me, can't get over a relationship that didn't work out, and wants to hang onto this for over 10 years?! He needs to get his ass kicked! (Anger isn't natural for me, so this went quickly, though I revisited this stage again between 4 and 5.)
3. Bargaining
My bargaining was with myself...okay, maybe there's some truth to what he said. I am a lot heavier now than I was when we spent that month together years ago. Maybe I am fat and nasty and need to get to a gym. I should do something about that. What do I need to do to not let this affect my self esteem?
4. Depression
Good hell. Maybe I really am fat and nasty. I'm an ugly person. How can Patrick even be attracted to me? Lifestyle change and having a baby are no excuse. I'm lazy and horrible. How sad that this guy still feels so bitter that he looks me up, finds me, and tells me how disgusting I am. I have wasted years that I could have been counting calories and spending hours at the gym. Patrick isn't going to want me anymore. I'm too fat for him. What will he say or do when I visit him in a couple weeks? (He's been in Utah getting his shop ready to move to Phoenix, and we haven't seen each other since December.) What am I going to do?
5. Acceptance
You know what, I have gained weight. You know what else? I've lost 6 lbs in the last month. I am a fantastic mother and wife. I am a hard worker. I am beautiful, inside and out. I am a daughter of a Heavenly Father who knows me and loves me. That alone makes me beautiful and remarkable beyond measure of any man on this earth. This guy that made those comments must have some issues in his life. He was and is hurt, and I am sorry for any hurt I caused. He has a wife and 2 kids now, and it's sad that he isn't able to release the pain and replace it with the joy of his family. The comments are his. He owns them. They are not a reflection of me, just of him. I can let that go. I can forgive him. And I can love me. I feel good about my decisions with the things that I can control - the things I CAN DO.
So, thank you psychology degree. I was able to navigate this one without a psychologist. A supportive husband (who is much less patient and slower to forgive than I) and my testimony of my divine nature got me through this one. Not to mention my beautiful daughter who keeps my perspective intact.
The Storm has passed and the sun is shining brighter than ever.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Beautiful Oregon
Lola and I are on a little vacation in Oregon, hanging out with two of the must adorable pups and two sweet kitties. Lola did really well on the flight, thank goodness, though she did fuss a little. The people around us were very compassionate.
The weather has been a welcome change from the Phoenix heat. It's nice to have some moisture and cool temps!
I get to take the pups on adventures, and Lola and I welcome the outdoorsiness.
Patrick is still in Utah, working hard to get the shop ready to move to Phoenix. We can't wait to be together as a family again!
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Our little Pepper is 18 months old
I tried SOOOOO hard to get a cute picture of Lola after church on her first day going to nursery. Every single picture had some sort of a blur in it...the little stinker was so excited and happy and just kept running around the kitchen like a little chicken. It was pretty cute. I resorted to a video, which turned out quite adorable.
And here she is the next morning. If there is anything around that can be climbed, she's on it. Subsequently, she has several bumps and red spots on her head.
This stage of development has been a lot of fun to witness. I want to start practicing homeschooling by having an educational activity planned every day. Nothing big, just something to challenge her mind and encourage her creativity. I would also like to find some sort of a play-thing for the backyard that would provide a good climbing set-up. Lola naps and sleeps so well when she can run around like crazy, so anything to facilitate that would be great!
Yesterday we spent the evening with my brothers and their families. My nephews and nieces adore Lola, and they keep her very active. She slept like a champ last night!
We love this sweet girl. I'm trying to intentionally slow down to really cherish this time in her life. :)
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Christmas, Mecham-style!
We had a great Christmas! It was fun to spend Christmas Eve in Prescott Valley with almost all of the family. We honored our family tradition and feasted on homemade gyoza, had a book exchange among the little cousins, the family gift exchange, and a talent show. My grandpa Mecham was there, and my mom's sister, Barbara, joined us as well. The only one missing from the family was Philip, which was a bummer. It was a fun day with the family.
Lola at 17 months
She's so cute...even when (okay, especially when) she is being sassy.
I can't believe she's 17 months old. One more month and she can go into the nursery at church. I have mixed feelings about that. :-) She may be a momma's girl. I'm definitely that girl's momma, and I can't get enough of her most of the time!
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Climb the next mountain
Orrin Woodward shared a story on his blog that reminded me of my six trips down the Grand Canyon. Here is an excerpt:
"Sometimes we have to be brave enough to move from the familiar to the unfamiliar. Life isn’t just reaching peaks. Part of it is moving from one peak to the next. If you rest too long in between, you might be tempted to quit. Leave the past in the past. Climb the next mountain and enjoy the view."
There's nothing like the view at the top of the Grand Canyon, both the North and South rims. The colors, shadows, and endless canyons of various depths could take me, a willing prisoner, to a timeless sentence of peace and wonder. I do believe that just about anyone can experience and appreciate the canyon's beauty from the rim; however, there is a significant authenticity of appreciation when you have had to endure the steep trails to get from the bottom to the distant top.
Just as Orrin said, resting too long can leave you tempted to quit. The canyons of the Grand Canyon are just as beautiful as the rims. The temperature is quite warm, similar to Phoenix, whereas the rims are cooler like Flagstaff. The beautiful Colorado River is a commanding presence and a cool gift to tired feet that have been hiking all day. There are waterfalls, streams, trees that lull you to sleep as the breeze gently stirs the leaves into a quiet symphony. Phantom Ranch offers a sense of rustic normalcy at the bottom of the canyon with a small store, deliciously carbonated soda (such a treat to experience there!), some community games like horseshoes, friendly company, delicious family-style dinners, and even a bed and shower if you were lucky enough to have made those reservations! The campsites are comfortable and have always provided good company as well. It really is easy to get comfortable there. But alas, we must be willing to leave the past in the past, start that grueling climb, reach a new peak, and have that fresh accomplishment to savor and enjoy.
The first mile of hiking out of the Grand Canyon via the Bright Angel Trail is the worst part of the hike...even worse than the Devil's Corkscrew, I think! It is sandy, endlessly winding along the Colorado River without gaining much altitude. Truly, it is a discouraging start. You feel like you are putting forth so much effort to no avail, and when you know just how much altitude lies ahead in the hike, it feels like a waste of time. I have desired to quit and return to the comforts of Phantom Ranch.
Life is a lot like this. Any new and worthy venture that will require our best character and strength has that initial excitement that can be quickly snuffed out by the reality of how much work is to come. Marriage, motherhood, moving out of state, and starting a new job are just a few examples of these ventures in my life. Fortunately, the previous mountain peaks provide a memory, an emotional, spiritual, physical, and even cellular memory of what grace has come and will come into our lives.
I remember one time hiking the Grand Canyon when it was snowing toward the top of the South Rim. It was one of the most peaceful experiences I have ever had, hiking alone through the snow that absorbed all sound. The only thing I could hear was the crunch of snow under my boots and my heavy breathing. In those moments, God's presence was near, and his Spirit filled my heart. The discomfort of hiking uphill in those conditions paled the significance of the moment and the anticipation of the hot chocolate I would soon enjoy in the lodge. Yes, grace has come and will come into our lives.
"Sometimes we have to be brave enough to move from the familiar to the unfamiliar. Life isn’t just reaching peaks. Part of it is moving from one peak to the next. If you rest too long in between, you might be tempted to quit. Leave the past in the past. Climb the next mountain and enjoy the view."
There's nothing like the view at the top of the Grand Canyon, both the North and South rims. The colors, shadows, and endless canyons of various depths could take me, a willing prisoner, to a timeless sentence of peace and wonder. I do believe that just about anyone can experience and appreciate the canyon's beauty from the rim; however, there is a significant authenticity of appreciation when you have had to endure the steep trails to get from the bottom to the distant top.
Just as Orrin said, resting too long can leave you tempted to quit. The canyons of the Grand Canyon are just as beautiful as the rims. The temperature is quite warm, similar to Phoenix, whereas the rims are cooler like Flagstaff. The beautiful Colorado River is a commanding presence and a cool gift to tired feet that have been hiking all day. There are waterfalls, streams, trees that lull you to sleep as the breeze gently stirs the leaves into a quiet symphony. Phantom Ranch offers a sense of rustic normalcy at the bottom of the canyon with a small store, deliciously carbonated soda (such a treat to experience there!), some community games like horseshoes, friendly company, delicious family-style dinners, and even a bed and shower if you were lucky enough to have made those reservations! The campsites are comfortable and have always provided good company as well. It really is easy to get comfortable there. But alas, we must be willing to leave the past in the past, start that grueling climb, reach a new peak, and have that fresh accomplishment to savor and enjoy.
The first mile of hiking out of the Grand Canyon via the Bright Angel Trail is the worst part of the hike...even worse than the Devil's Corkscrew, I think! It is sandy, endlessly winding along the Colorado River without gaining much altitude. Truly, it is a discouraging start. You feel like you are putting forth so much effort to no avail, and when you know just how much altitude lies ahead in the hike, it feels like a waste of time. I have desired to quit and return to the comforts of Phantom Ranch.
Life is a lot like this. Any new and worthy venture that will require our best character and strength has that initial excitement that can be quickly snuffed out by the reality of how much work is to come. Marriage, motherhood, moving out of state, and starting a new job are just a few examples of these ventures in my life. Fortunately, the previous mountain peaks provide a memory, an emotional, spiritual, physical, and even cellular memory of what grace has come and will come into our lives.
I remember one time hiking the Grand Canyon when it was snowing toward the top of the South Rim. It was one of the most peaceful experiences I have ever had, hiking alone through the snow that absorbed all sound. The only thing I could hear was the crunch of snow under my boots and my heavy breathing. In those moments, God's presence was near, and his Spirit filled my heart. The discomfort of hiking uphill in those conditions paled the significance of the moment and the anticipation of the hot chocolate I would soon enjoy in the lodge. Yes, grace has come and will come into our lives.
I have faith that amazing things are going to happen in our family this year and beyond. The valleys, canyons, and plains are preparing us for the next mountaintop. Some of the events I hope to experience along the way are finding our own home, growing our family, becoming financially free, and being sealed as an eternal family. I truly look forward to the next peak as I enjoy learning from where I am today.
“When you part from your friend, you grieve not; For that which you love most in him may be clearer in his absence, as the mountain to the climber is clearer from the plain.”
― Kahlil Gibran
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
8 months and growing!
Lola is doing very well! She has recently figured out how to sit up on her own, scoots backwards and maneuvers any which way to get where she intends, and realized she has a voice. Sometimes she'll LOUDLY babble on for an hour straight. I think crawling will happen any day now. I've been giving her solid foods once in awhile, and she loves the new experiences. Today she sucked on a lime wedge and loved it! She didn't make a funny face at all! She had a great 1st Easter. We went to my Aunt Arlene's house and feasted with lots of family. Lola is so cute and so much fun. I do have my exhausted days where I'd love for anyone to take her off my hands for an hour. I'm sure all 1st time moms feel this way...motherhood is consuming! But so rewarding and great. What a humbling blessing. :)
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Lola at 7 months...I had forgotten to publish this post!
Guess who can stay sitting up on her own now???
It's so amazing how a new skill manifests itself as "mastered" in just a day. At least it seems to be so. Lola has been sitting up with help from her boppy pillow for awhile, but kept falling over without any supplemental help. On Saturday, it clicked, and she's been sitting like a pro ever since. She has yet to get herself into the sitting position, though, so that's the next exciting milestone we're watching for.
Somewhat related to this news is today's historical even with Pope Francis being elected the new pope. I'm LDS, and I don't know a whole lot about the Catholic church, but as far as the new pope is concerned, he seems like a really humble and down to earth kind of guy. I like that. I have a great appreciation for good kind people!
Thursday, February 21, 2013
6 months already!
I can't believe how fast time really flies when you have a baby! Lola has fallen in love with her feet and loves to suck on her big toes. She has been rolling over for awhile now, but earlier this week she figured out how to put those rolls together to travel quickly across the living room. ...I vacuum a LOT these days! Lola loves her daddy, watching (and occasionally man-handling) the kitties, her Baby Galileo Baby Einstein video, warm baths, giggling, and being around people. She loves mommy a lot too. :)
Monday, October 15, 2012
Meet Lola!
Our little girl arrived on August 3rd after 30 hours of labor...what an entrance! She weighed 7 lb 6.5 oz and was 20 inches long. At her 2 month checkup she weighed 10 lb 11 oz and was 21 1/2 inches long. She's growing well and so quickly! She has been a delightful baby, and we feel so blessed and privileged to be her parents.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
We're alive!
Just so you're aware, we are still fully intact and doing well.
Patrick started his own business in the middle of July. He is focusing mainly on British motorcycle repair and custom work. He, of course, is also doing anything needed on any kinds of motorcycles, as well as vehicle repair. He has remained busy from the very start! I love how happy Patrick is as his own boss. :) My friends really enjoy having a good connection to get their vehicles in working order, too.
In August, I was promoted to Assistant Manager at Thaifoon. The last few months have FLOWN by!!! It has been very rewarding and full of opportunities for growth. I'm learning a lot and having fun doing it.
We signed another 12-month lease at our apartment in September, so we'll be here for awhile.
The kitties are also doing well. We haven't had any kitties climbing in swamp coolers, sneaking out in the rain, etc., so it's been quiet for the most part. They are getting along better and better, and keeping us entertained with their playing. Lunch is infatuated with dumping water out of their bowl. It doesn't matter what kind of container we use, she insists that the kitchen floor be wet. Mopping it up with her fur didn't do anything... She's adorable, though, so I forgive her.
I hope you all are doing very well!!!
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Awesome and QUICK meal!
I was lucky enough to get to keep leftover homemade bruschetta (made by my friend Rochelle), and I put together a really tasty and creative meal. I had a hamburger to cook, but no buns!! So...I used an english muffin instead. Here's what all I threw together:
english muffin
hamburger patty
bruschetta
cheese (colby & monterey jack is what I had on hand)
lettuce
I opened up the english muffin and stacked grated cheese on one of the halves, placed them both in the oven for a bit to melt the cheese and warm the muffin.
I threw the hamburger patty on the Foreman and cooked that sucker!
Put cooked burger on cheesy half of muffin, topped with bruschetta and lettuce, topped with other half of the muffin.
YUM, YUM, and YUUUMMM!!!
Patrick loved it too. :) So, I'll have to make this again! Maybe next time I'll take a picture before I devour the whole thing...
english muffin
hamburger patty
bruschetta
cheese (colby & monterey jack is what I had on hand)
lettuce
I opened up the english muffin and stacked grated cheese on one of the halves, placed them both in the oven for a bit to melt the cheese and warm the muffin.
I threw the hamburger patty on the Foreman and cooked that sucker!
Put cooked burger on cheesy half of muffin, topped with bruschetta and lettuce, topped with other half of the muffin.
YUM, YUM, and YUUUMMM!!!
Patrick loved it too. :) So, I'll have to make this again! Maybe next time I'll take a picture before I devour the whole thing...
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Friendship
Among intelligent people the surest basis for marriage is friendship - the sharing of real interests - the ability to fight out ideas together and understand each other's thoughts and dreams.
~Kahlil Gibran, quoted from MaryHaskell's journal, dated 26th May 1923
I really like this quote. I registered on scribd and searched out Paulo Coelho and Kahlil Gibran, two of my favorite authors. I found Kahlil Gibran's Love Letters and started reading. He says things in such a beautiful way.
~Kahlil Gibran, quoted from MaryHaskell's journal, dated 26th May 1923
I really like this quote. I registered on scribd and searched out Paulo Coelho and Kahlil Gibran, two of my favorite authors. I found Kahlil Gibran's Love Letters and started reading. He says things in such a beautiful way.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Family Visit in February
I'm playing catch-up on the blog today.
In Febraury, my parents, my sis, and her boyfriend came to visit us for a weekend. It was nice to have family visit.
My Mom and Dad hanging out on our couch just after arriving.
Par for the Mecham Course, we ate a lot. We had Indian food one night, my dad filled my fridge with groceries, we snacked, I introduced my mom and sis to Costa Vida, we all ate at Thaifoon, etc. Soooo much food.
On Friday and Saturday that weekend, we girls went up to Ogden to Time Out For Women. Patrick's mom was able to attend the event as well, and we stayed the night at her house. It always amazes me how hard it is to be away from Patrick overnight. Even when it's just one little night. What can I say? I love snuggling with him!
Time Out For Women was amazing. I know I got a lot out of it, and I hope everyone else did to.
My dad and Kosette's boyfriend, Matt, went skiing on Friday and toured around Salt Lake City on Saturday. Patrick unfortunately had to work during both days.
On Sunday, Patrick and I spent some time with my parents, and we went to the library so my dad could take some architectural photographs. I love watching my dad look at awesome architecture. It's when I see the passion for what he does for a living, rather than the day-to-day lethargy that we all kind of develop towards our careers. My dad is a great architect.
The view from the top of the Salt Lake City Public Library.
I've lived in Utah for almost 8 years, and I finally got a library card. :)
My parents at the top of the library. It was a bright and windy day!
These little books are hung in the shape of a head in the library. It made me think of the tv show, Reading Rainbow that I watched allllll the time as a kid. And then the song was stuck in my head for the remainder of the day.
There you go...now it can be stuck in your head all day. :)
Kosette and Matt (sitting in a tree...K-I-S-S-I-N-G...)
The last night we were together, my sis and her boyfriend made a vegetarian feast for us. I think they thought we were feeding 10 more people. I had leftovers for a week! It was a great meal, though. I really enjoyed sitting around the dinner table and just enjoying conversation and time together as a family.
Thanks, Mom, Dad, Kosette, and Matt for visiting and staying with us. I'm so grateful for a wonderful family!!!
In Febraury, my parents, my sis, and her boyfriend came to visit us for a weekend. It was nice to have family visit.
My Mom and Dad hanging out on our couch just after arriving.Par for the Mecham Course, we ate a lot. We had Indian food one night, my dad filled my fridge with groceries, we snacked, I introduced my mom and sis to Costa Vida, we all ate at Thaifoon, etc. Soooo much food.
On Friday and Saturday that weekend, we girls went up to Ogden to Time Out For Women. Patrick's mom was able to attend the event as well, and we stayed the night at her house. It always amazes me how hard it is to be away from Patrick overnight. Even when it's just one little night. What can I say? I love snuggling with him!
Time Out For Women was amazing. I know I got a lot out of it, and I hope everyone else did to.
My dad and Kosette's boyfriend, Matt, went skiing on Friday and toured around Salt Lake City on Saturday. Patrick unfortunately had to work during both days.
On Sunday, Patrick and I spent some time with my parents, and we went to the library so my dad could take some architectural photographs. I love watching my dad look at awesome architecture. It's when I see the passion for what he does for a living, rather than the day-to-day lethargy that we all kind of develop towards our careers. My dad is a great architect.
The view from the top of the Salt Lake City Public Library.I've lived in Utah for almost 8 years, and I finally got a library card. :)
My parents at the top of the library. It was a bright and windy day!
These little books are hung in the shape of a head in the library. It made me think of the tv show, Reading Rainbow that I watched allllll the time as a kid. And then the song was stuck in my head for the remainder of the day.There you go...now it can be stuck in your head all day. :)
Kosette and Matt (sitting in a tree...K-I-S-S-I-N-G...)The last night we were together, my sis and her boyfriend made a vegetarian feast for us. I think they thought we were feeding 10 more people. I had leftovers for a week! It was a great meal, though. I really enjoyed sitting around the dinner table and just enjoying conversation and time together as a family.
Thanks, Mom, Dad, Kosette, and Matt for visiting and staying with us. I'm so grateful for a wonderful family!!!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Dear Phoenix, You Are So Beautiful!
Patrick and I just returned from a much needed vacation to Phoenix, where most of my family lives. It was almost 5 days of beautiful sunny weather and fun times spent with family (and quality do-nothing time).
We flew in on Thursday and did a whole bunch of nothing. We watched movies and spent the day with my mom, Philip, and my dad when he got home from work.
On Friday, we went shopping with my mom and Philip and got the ingredients for the amazing feast that Patrick and I prepared with the help of the fam. We made shrimp summer rolls as an appetizer, and Patrick made a pork dumpling soup that was absolutely delicious. We ate entirely too much that night! :)
Saturday, we went to the open house for the new water treatment plant where Jeremiah is the Superintendent. It's a really nice facility. We went with my dad and my grandparents, Grandpa Jones and Verla. It's so strange to see my grandpa aging. He's 90 years old now, but when I think of Grandpa Jones, I think of an ornery old fart who is a gruff teddy bear, full of life. In my mind, my grandpas will always be around, since they always have been. I've had 7 grandmas, so it really is strange to see my grandpas getting oooolllldddd.
After the open house, we went on a double-date with my brother, Jonathan, and his wife, Ashlee. We went bowling and ate pizza. I was bowling left-handed quite a bit to be nice to my right arm (old injury from July), and still bowled mostly over 100. Not too shabby! Patrick and Jonathan were the star bowlers of the night, and Ashlee consistently kicked my butt, too.
That night, we hung out with Jeremiah and his kids, then stayed up way too late talking with Jeremiah and Christy. They were sweet enough to stay up past their normal bedtime to hang out with us. Unfortunately, their daughter got sick that night, so they didn't get much sleep.
Sunday was more family time. Jonathan's family came over to my parents' house for dinner, and it is always fun to spend time with them. Grandpa Mecham came over, too. I'm glad we got to see him on this trip. My mom's friend, Susan, came over for dinner, too, and she let Patrick take her Harley for a ride. I loved the grin on his face when he came back in the house. I could tell he needed and appreciated that little bit of therapy.
Today, we spent the morning hanging out at my parents' house. We spent some good time sitting on the porch swing soaking in the sun. It felt so amazing to have some warmth, knowing we'd be coming back to nasty freezing temperatures in a matter of hours. We also had sushi for lunch. My dad met us at the restaurant, and we ate again, entirely too much. It was so good!
My friend, Jenny, picked us up and took us to the airport. I try to visit her when we go down to Phoenix, so even though it was a short visit, it was entertaining and quite nice. That girl can talk!
And it was 28˚ when we arrived in Salt Lake City. Yuck.
We're contemplating moving down to Phoenix. Year round motorcycle and softball weather is very appealing.
Thanks for the great visit, my wonderful family!!! I love you all, and I love seeing how much your kids have grown.
We flew in on Thursday and did a whole bunch of nothing. We watched movies and spent the day with my mom, Philip, and my dad when he got home from work.
On Friday, we went shopping with my mom and Philip and got the ingredients for the amazing feast that Patrick and I prepared with the help of the fam. We made shrimp summer rolls as an appetizer, and Patrick made a pork dumpling soup that was absolutely delicious. We ate entirely too much that night! :)
Saturday, we went to the open house for the new water treatment plant where Jeremiah is the Superintendent. It's a really nice facility. We went with my dad and my grandparents, Grandpa Jones and Verla. It's so strange to see my grandpa aging. He's 90 years old now, but when I think of Grandpa Jones, I think of an ornery old fart who is a gruff teddy bear, full of life. In my mind, my grandpas will always be around, since they always have been. I've had 7 grandmas, so it really is strange to see my grandpas getting oooolllldddd.
After the open house, we went on a double-date with my brother, Jonathan, and his wife, Ashlee. We went bowling and ate pizza. I was bowling left-handed quite a bit to be nice to my right arm (old injury from July), and still bowled mostly over 100. Not too shabby! Patrick and Jonathan were the star bowlers of the night, and Ashlee consistently kicked my butt, too.
That night, we hung out with Jeremiah and his kids, then stayed up way too late talking with Jeremiah and Christy. They were sweet enough to stay up past their normal bedtime to hang out with us. Unfortunately, their daughter got sick that night, so they didn't get much sleep.
Sunday was more family time. Jonathan's family came over to my parents' house for dinner, and it is always fun to spend time with them. Grandpa Mecham came over, too. I'm glad we got to see him on this trip. My mom's friend, Susan, came over for dinner, too, and she let Patrick take her Harley for a ride. I loved the grin on his face when he came back in the house. I could tell he needed and appreciated that little bit of therapy.
Today, we spent the morning hanging out at my parents' house. We spent some good time sitting on the porch swing soaking in the sun. It felt so amazing to have some warmth, knowing we'd be coming back to nasty freezing temperatures in a matter of hours. We also had sushi for lunch. My dad met us at the restaurant, and we ate again, entirely too much. It was so good!
My friend, Jenny, picked us up and took us to the airport. I try to visit her when we go down to Phoenix, so even though it was a short visit, it was entertaining and quite nice. That girl can talk!
And it was 28˚ when we arrived in Salt Lake City. Yuck.
We're contemplating moving down to Phoenix. Year round motorcycle and softball weather is very appealing.
Thanks for the great visit, my wonderful family!!! I love you all, and I love seeing how much your kids have grown.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Back to my roots
Ah, the new year...
Weight to lose, debt to eliminate, trips to go on, money to make, etc., etc. It is a little bit overwhelming to think about all that I would like to do this year. And all that Patrick would like to do. And of course there is also the list of things we want to do together.
So, I will return to my roots and find comfort in food. :) I found some great lists of recipes that are healthy (a lot of them, anyway), and quite affordable.
Did you know baking was so sexy? :)
I really like the idea of getting a meal going in my crock pot before I go to work and voila!, dinner is ready when I get home. And I love the idea of making great recipes, freezing servings, and having meals ready to be heated up and devoured at any given time. Do you know how many unnecessary trips to Taco Bell, McDonalds, the grocery store, and the number of frozen pizzas we eat will be vastly reduced?!?!
This would be a great transition to make in our kitchen at home. It will save us time and money, and help us trim our waistlines too! Apparently one of our Christmas gifts was an extra inch or so in the belly-area. I'm not so happy about that, and would love to exchange it for a better gift...
Weight to lose, debt to eliminate, trips to go on, money to make, etc., etc. It is a little bit overwhelming to think about all that I would like to do this year. And all that Patrick would like to do. And of course there is also the list of things we want to do together.
So, I will return to my roots and find comfort in food. :) I found some great lists of recipes that are healthy (a lot of them, anyway), and quite affordable.
Did you know baking was so sexy? :)I really like the idea of getting a meal going in my crock pot before I go to work and voila!, dinner is ready when I get home. And I love the idea of making great recipes, freezing servings, and having meals ready to be heated up and devoured at any given time. Do you know how many unnecessary trips to Taco Bell, McDonalds, the grocery store, and the number of frozen pizzas we eat will be vastly reduced?!?!
This would be a great transition to make in our kitchen at home. It will save us time and money, and help us trim our waistlines too! Apparently one of our Christmas gifts was an extra inch or so in the belly-area. I'm not so happy about that, and would love to exchange it for a better gift...
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Happy Anniversary
Today is our 2 year anniversary. In some ways, it has gone so incredibly fast! In other ways, it seems like it's been 5 years. :) We spent the day working at our jobs, doing side jobs, working on Mary Kay, making banana bread, doing laundry, and the night is still young. It hasn't been the most romantic day, yet it has been full of love and gratitude. How I love hearing my hubby tell me how much he loves me and that I make his heart beat kind of funny!
Here is our list of the top 10 things we've experienced, learned, etc. in the past 2 years of marriage:
1. "They" were right...LOVE DOES CONQUER ALL!!!
2. When God is involved, life is so much easier, and love is so much better.
3. Having 3 kitties really is like having 2 kids. Sometimes 1...sometimes 4. Depends on the day.
4. Sometimes the littlest things make the biggest difference.
5. Patrick makes the BEST biscuits and gravy. Ever.
6. If you need something fixed, something heavy picked up, or a wise-crack, just call Patrick.
7. Alison can communicate with ducks via fart. And she gets Patrick. Both very rare skills.
8. We love Redbox.
9. Dreams keep you moving. We both have big dreams, and truly support each other in reaching those dreams.
10. Two years is just the beginning. We're looking forward to the rest of our lives and eternity together.
We want to thank our family and friends for their support over the last almost 3 years of knowing each other. Through thick and thin, your support has helped us to grow, and for that we are grateful!
Here is our list of the top 10 things we've experienced, learned, etc. in the past 2 years of marriage:
1. "They" were right...LOVE DOES CONQUER ALL!!!
2. When God is involved, life is so much easier, and love is so much better.
3. Having 3 kitties really is like having 2 kids. Sometimes 1...sometimes 4. Depends on the day.
4. Sometimes the littlest things make the biggest difference.
5. Patrick makes the BEST biscuits and gravy. Ever.
6. If you need something fixed, something heavy picked up, or a wise-crack, just call Patrick.
7. Alison can communicate with ducks via fart. And she gets Patrick. Both very rare skills.
8. We love Redbox.
9. Dreams keep you moving. We both have big dreams, and truly support each other in reaching those dreams.
10. Two years is just the beginning. We're looking forward to the rest of our lives and eternity together.
We want to thank our family and friends for their support over the last almost 3 years of knowing each other. Through thick and thin, your support has helped us to grow, and for that we are grateful!
Saturday, December 12, 2009
The Spirit of CHRISTmas
We've had some great in-depth conversations about Christmas in our home lately.
Patrick has fond memories of Christmas as a young child, when the simplest things captured his imagination.
I have fond memories of delivering boxes of little presents, a turkey, other fun food items including baked goods my mom helped us make, leaving them on the doorstep of a family that needed a little extra something, knocking on their door on Christmas Eve, and running away before we could be discovered.
Christmas has its own unique memories and feelings for every individual, and quite often, as adults, the commercial gift-giving aspect of Christmas can taint what this holiday is all about. It begins with all of the stores setting up their Christmas displays in the middle of November, if not earlier, and continues on through Christmas Day with the frustrating traffic and business at stores, the impatience of other shoppers, the list of presents to give that cost more than the allotted budget, thousands of commercials telling us to buy-buy-buy, etc. Christmas can easily become a huge list of wants presented to Santa accompanied by the expectations of society, the media, our social network, and our family. The simple need of feeling and expressing pure love to everyone we encounter is often overlooked, or overshadowed by the superficial flurry.
As a young couple planning on starting a family very soon, we have discussed what we would like Christmas to be all about in our home. Our hope is to make sure that the Spirit of Christ is greater than the Spirit of Christmas. Simplicity and Service will be our focus.
I've heard some great ideas over the last month from other families and my own in how to refocus Christmas.
My parents have expressed that they would like their children and grandchildren to come up with some act of service and love to do for someone this season and to write them a letter expressing what we did and how we feel about the experience. I love this idea, although it can be a challenge to choose what we want to do. :)
An older couple from church shared that this year they aren't giving gifts to their children or grandchildren, and aren't accepting gifts from them either. As a family, they are going to pick names from and Angel Tree, find gifts for those individuals who are in need, and give as a family to someone else.
A guy who eats at the restaurant where I work has 2 little boys, and he and his wife have taught their boys that Santa isn't a person; Santa is the Spirit of Giving. So, the boys can make a list of 3 things that they want, and they broke it down into categories that I can't remember. I think it was something along the lines of a necessity, something bigger that they really want, and something educational. They also make sure they participate in volunteering at a homeless shelter, donating food to the food banks, and anything else like that. He did say that in theory it sounds simple and easy, but in practice, it can be a challenge. Especially when the grandparents want to spoil the kids rotten. :)
Patrick and I talked about limiting the number of gifts that our kids can ask for as well. I think of the first Harry Potter movie where on Dudley's birthday, he gets upset that he has one less gift than the huge number of gifts he received the previous birthday, so his parents tell him they'll get him 2 more gifts that day. Frivolity. At its worst. And I'm pretty sure we all laughed and thought, "what a spoiled little shit!" Yet, for just about everyone, it's easy to have that same attitude without even realizing it. You can say, "Nuh-uhhh!" but chances are, you probably enable that attitude in someone else, too. :)
My ex-husband was alllll about getting a lot of gifts. I'd end up buying a lot of little gifts for him so he would feel good about unwrapping a lot of presents. Why did I enable that attitude??
When I was a kid, I remember asking Santa for a pink bike with a white basket and ribbons hanging off the handle bars. I was actually pissed that the bike I did get was purple, and I can't even remember if it had a basket or ribbons. So silly.
I heard a story years ago about a family that would open their presents Christmas morning, and each of the children would choose one of their brand new presents to give to a family in need. They would wrap them back up and deliver a box full of presents to a family with kids that wouldn't otherwise get much. I love that idea!
So, this year, we may or may not get a tree, and we probably won't exchange presents as a couple. We'll focus on giving to others, especially giving our love, time, service, and anything else that we can give.
Recently Patrick and I read in The Book of Mormon, Mosiah chapter 4, which talks about giving. Verse 26 always stands out to me:
Mosiah - Chapter 4
26 And now, for the sake of these things which I have spoken unto you—that is, for the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to day, that ye may walk guiltless before God—I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally, according to their wants.
What a beautiful reminder. :)
I am so grateful for the comfortable life that Patrick and I are able to live. We have most of our needs met, and we try to be aware of our many blessings and that the origin of our blessings is unquestionably our Heavenly Father. Without Him, we would have nothing; be nothing. Fortunately, He is a loving god, and everything about us is evidence of that.
I hope you all have a special Christmas and that you feel the Spirit of Christ, not just this month, but hopefully daily. Life is beautiful, and there's plenty of wonder and goodness to go all around!
xoxo
Patrick has fond memories of Christmas as a young child, when the simplest things captured his imagination.
I have fond memories of delivering boxes of little presents, a turkey, other fun food items including baked goods my mom helped us make, leaving them on the doorstep of a family that needed a little extra something, knocking on their door on Christmas Eve, and running away before we could be discovered.
Christmas has its own unique memories and feelings for every individual, and quite often, as adults, the commercial gift-giving aspect of Christmas can taint what this holiday is all about. It begins with all of the stores setting up their Christmas displays in the middle of November, if not earlier, and continues on through Christmas Day with the frustrating traffic and business at stores, the impatience of other shoppers, the list of presents to give that cost more than the allotted budget, thousands of commercials telling us to buy-buy-buy, etc. Christmas can easily become a huge list of wants presented to Santa accompanied by the expectations of society, the media, our social network, and our family. The simple need of feeling and expressing pure love to everyone we encounter is often overlooked, or overshadowed by the superficial flurry.
As a young couple planning on starting a family very soon, we have discussed what we would like Christmas to be all about in our home. Our hope is to make sure that the Spirit of Christ is greater than the Spirit of Christmas. Simplicity and Service will be our focus.
I've heard some great ideas over the last month from other families and my own in how to refocus Christmas.
My parents have expressed that they would like their children and grandchildren to come up with some act of service and love to do for someone this season and to write them a letter expressing what we did and how we feel about the experience. I love this idea, although it can be a challenge to choose what we want to do. :)
An older couple from church shared that this year they aren't giving gifts to their children or grandchildren, and aren't accepting gifts from them either. As a family, they are going to pick names from and Angel Tree, find gifts for those individuals who are in need, and give as a family to someone else.
A guy who eats at the restaurant where I work has 2 little boys, and he and his wife have taught their boys that Santa isn't a person; Santa is the Spirit of Giving. So, the boys can make a list of 3 things that they want, and they broke it down into categories that I can't remember. I think it was something along the lines of a necessity, something bigger that they really want, and something educational. They also make sure they participate in volunteering at a homeless shelter, donating food to the food banks, and anything else like that. He did say that in theory it sounds simple and easy, but in practice, it can be a challenge. Especially when the grandparents want to spoil the kids rotten. :)
Patrick and I talked about limiting the number of gifts that our kids can ask for as well. I think of the first Harry Potter movie where on Dudley's birthday, he gets upset that he has one less gift than the huge number of gifts he received the previous birthday, so his parents tell him they'll get him 2 more gifts that day. Frivolity. At its worst. And I'm pretty sure we all laughed and thought, "what a spoiled little shit!" Yet, for just about everyone, it's easy to have that same attitude without even realizing it. You can say, "Nuh-uhhh!" but chances are, you probably enable that attitude in someone else, too. :)
My ex-husband was alllll about getting a lot of gifts. I'd end up buying a lot of little gifts for him so he would feel good about unwrapping a lot of presents. Why did I enable that attitude??
When I was a kid, I remember asking Santa for a pink bike with a white basket and ribbons hanging off the handle bars. I was actually pissed that the bike I did get was purple, and I can't even remember if it had a basket or ribbons. So silly.
I heard a story years ago about a family that would open their presents Christmas morning, and each of the children would choose one of their brand new presents to give to a family in need. They would wrap them back up and deliver a box full of presents to a family with kids that wouldn't otherwise get much. I love that idea!
So, this year, we may or may not get a tree, and we probably won't exchange presents as a couple. We'll focus on giving to others, especially giving our love, time, service, and anything else that we can give.
Recently Patrick and I read in The Book of Mormon, Mosiah chapter 4, which talks about giving. Verse 26 always stands out to me:
Mosiah - Chapter 4
26 And now, for the sake of these things which I have spoken unto you—that is, for the sake of retaining a remission of your sins from day to day, that ye may walk guiltless before God—I would that ye should impart of your substance to the poor, every man according to that which he hath, such as feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, visiting the sick and administering to their relief, both spiritually and temporally, according to their wants.
What a beautiful reminder. :)
I am so grateful for the comfortable life that Patrick and I are able to live. We have most of our needs met, and we try to be aware of our many blessings and that the origin of our blessings is unquestionably our Heavenly Father. Without Him, we would have nothing; be nothing. Fortunately, He is a loving god, and everything about us is evidence of that.
I hope you all have a special Christmas and that you feel the Spirit of Christ, not just this month, but hopefully daily. Life is beautiful, and there's plenty of wonder and goodness to go all around!
xoxo
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