Don't Shoot!

This morning, Collin and I got our shots for our trip to Africa. I cannot believe how quickly it is coming. Just over a month. Forty something days. I get a little nervous and excited just thinking about it. After basically searching all over Utah, Colorado and California, I finally got a hold of most of our immunization records. They were pretty spread out, but had to have them in order to know what we needed to get.

Yellow Fever. Malaria. Typhoid. I don't want any of these diseases, so hopefully the little shot and the pills we have to take will do their job, because I'd really rather not get any of that stuff. I'll spare everyone the horror and not put up gross pictures. So we'll just pray they work. That'd be great. Thanks.

Now that we have our shots, we can finally submit our applications for Uganda Visas! I probably sound like a broken record, because I'm pretty sure that I posted all this jazz a few weeks ago when we were supposed to get our shots the first time (aka before we knew we had to be all prepped and ready with every last piece of documented medical history). Once we get our visas back, all we'll have to do is pack. And we're ready to go. Can you say "Awesome?" I can! This is going to be AWESOME!!

Twins Falls with the Edmunds!

The reunion was fantastic. It had been so long, but felt like we hadn't skipped a beat. Now, we both have husbands and she has a baby and life has gone on, but still the greatest friends. I love their cute family. I am super bummed we didn't get a pic together, but she did take one of Collin and I here at the bridge.

We left Saturday morning and got there just after 10am. We spent most of our time catching up and chatting. But we also took this gem out to the bridge. I was in awe at how enormous it was and how beautiful the canyon is. Whenever Collin and I drive, we always make different comments about the geography and whatnot. We LOVED this place. We also went off-roading and I was in hysterics. I don't know why that kind of thing makes me laugh so much. But anyway, we got close to the edge and just checked out the view.

If you can see this big mound of earth, that was the jump that Evil Kanevil attempted to clear the canyon. Sean was saying that he didn't clear it, and his parachute had to deploy. I had no idea how awesome Twin Falls was. So fabulous.

We were also quite taken with their little boy, Noah. He just turned 1 and is such a doll. While we were just sitting around, chatting in the front room, he took 3 unassisted steps. Jo and Sean were so animated and excited about this big step in his life. I almost got kind of emotional. It was so cute to see their family have this fun experience.

Unfortunately, Noah was teething and not feeling very well, and Jo had come down with a 24 hr flu bug that she passed off to Sean. Collin and I felt so awful for them and that they were all getting sick. We didn't do much else, because we didn't want to get anyone sicker. It was still such a fun weekend to be together.

On the way out of town, Collin and I stopped at Jamie and Riley Wight's house too. Jamie was one of my roommates a couple of years ago. She just had a little baby boy, Miles, 9 weeks ago, so we got to see him too. It's crazy, because we hadn't seen them since they got married 2 years ago. It was such a great trip, and so fun to see such wonderful friends.

Way overdue...

Tomorrow, Collin and I are driving to Twin Falls, Idaho to visit Jo, Sean and their cute baby boy, Noah. We are so excited. It has been way too long since we have been able to spend more than 20 minutes together. A few weeks ago, Sean and I were chatting over gchat. We came to 2 conclusions. 1) The Rotheys and Edmunds hadn't seen each other in a long time and 2) The Edmunds were going to be taking some sort of vacation/trip. So we decided that we'd meet up! Seans family lives in Twin, so they're going to visit them and at the same time, we'll come crash the party. We are so so excited. I will be sure to take pictures. So, more to follow.

Get in the Groove

We have had our iPhones for 3 days now, and just as my sister Jen said, it has changed my life. The funny thing about this phone is that it can really bring people together. Such a drastic opposite from what my brother-in-law had said with his schitzo-iphonia observations. What I mean by this is that I have downloaded a few app's, and have already been drawn in closer to family and friends.

WORDS WITH FRIENDS

This app is awesome. It's just like scrabble that you can play with anyone else who has the app. I've already played with my sisters Emily and Jen, my brothers-in-law and Collin. It's great because you can play multiple games at one time and take as long as you need. So if you have a training for work in Salt Lake, you can make your play before it starts, and make your next play during the 5 minute break they give you (this is what happened to me yesterday). I love it! My sisters kicked my butt in our first bouts, but hopefully I'll be able to keep up once I get in the groove.

Does anyone have other suggestions for apps? I'd love your opinion.

Weekend Visit

The Thornton's came to visit this weekend. Cory, Tiffany, Sadie, Jaxon, Max and Ruby came to visit us this weekend and it was such a fun, yet quick trip. Collin and I loved having them in town. They got into town on Saturday with perfect timing, just after I got out of work. We gave them a quick tour and then went to Angie's for dinner. The tagline for the restaurant is "Where the Locals Eat" so we figured we should give them a taste of Logan. After dinner, we drove around town so that Tiffany could reminisce of the time that she was going to USU. We stopped at the University and walked around a bit. Tiffany took some fun pictures (which I managed to forget to snag off her camera chip). The rest of the weekend was full of horseplay, Super Mario Bros Wii, ganging up to tickle Cory's feet, eating and just spending time together. It was wonderful, and I love that they made their first Spring Break stop in Logan. And I wish I would have taken more pictures. Scratch that. I wish I would have taken pictures period.

We Did it!

We made the big switch. Goodbye Blackberry. Hello iPhone.

I hope THIS doesn't happen to us.

A few updates:

*Cory and Tiffany & kids are driving here right this very moment, and I'm SO excited for them to visit!!

*I had to cancel my hair appt today with Riana because of the aforementioned arrival of family.

*March Madness has been everything I ever hoped for and more! Such a great time for sports!

*My nails are loving the "hard as nails" stuff I keep putting on them. They actually look pretty. That's a first the little nubs have held their own... usually they look terrible.

*I didn't work out once this week! Slacker, maybe, but I like to consider it a renewal of my dedication and desire to get back on it on Monday. (At least that's what I'll tell myself)

*Life is Goooood!

Crossroads

Last night, we had our Relief Society birthday party celebration. First, I must say that I'm SO glad that I went. I haven't gone to a ton of the activities they've had, so I finally got off my butt and went to this one. It was such a great meeting, and so many incredible messages were shared. The overall theme was the crossroads we face along the journey of life.

Each of the tables were decorated with different events or times we come to that impact the rest of our lives. Young Women, Sweet 16/dating, Graduation, Missionary Work, Going to the Temple/Marriage, Family Life/Having Children, Home Improvement & Empty Nesters! They were all so cute. (I was asked to set up a table and did the Sweet 16 centerpiece). An older couple in the ward spoke at the beginning of the meeting and it was so inspiring. She mentioned all the small and simple crossroads that we come to; the smaller decisions that we make every single day that shape the people we become. Do we read the scriptures every day? Do we have Family night? How are we treating the people around us? So many little things that can either help or hinder our own situations in life. This really made me contemplate the way that I live and how I can be a better person.

After they spoke, dinner was served and a few people were asked to speak on different crossroads faced in life. I was one of the lucky 3, so I shared a little about mine and Collin's experience and how we came to a crossroads while dating. We made the decision to break up when it would have been so easy to just get married and force everything to work and avoid the promptings we received. I am so grateful for everything that we went through and that everything happened the way that it did. It's still crazy to think of it all, but what an incredible way to grow together and to really appreciate one another now.

Two of the people who shared experiences read "A road not taken" by Robert Frost.

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,

And sorry I could not travel both

And be one traveler, long I stood

And looked down one as far as I could

To where it bent in the undergrowth.

Then took the other, as just as fair,

And having perhaps the better claim,

Because it was grassy and wanted wear;

hough as for that the passing there

Had worn them really about the same.

And both that morning equally lay

In leaves no step had trodden black.

Oh, I kept the first for another day!

Yet knowing how way leads on to way,

I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh

Somewhere ages and ages hence:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I--

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference.

I hope that I always chose the right road, no matter how difficult it may seem, and no matter how many others have taken it.

It's finally here!!!

No, it's not a birthday or an anniversary! We aren't making any announcements and nothing super special or out of the ordinary is happening. BUT... today is Day 1 of

I love this time of year. One of the best months for Sports. NBA is nearing the end of the season, NFL is analyzing all the possibilities for the Draft, Spring Training for MLB and HELLO -- NCAA March Madness. Always and Forever, March Madness will remind me of our Honeymoon Cruise. Some would think that's a strange connection, but it makes perfect sense for Collin and I. While we were on our cruise, we made our picks, and checked scores and such at the end of every day. It was magical.

This year, I've gone a slightly different route than usual. I was invited to 2 different challenges. And I have 3 different brackets. I usually just go with one final, complete, "one-and-only" bracket. So, we'll see how this one goes! But... I love March Madness!

I have a problem...

I have a major obsession! Its bad. I can't help it. There's nothing I can do about it. I LOVE to get my hair done. I HAVE to get my hair done. If it gets too long, or if I go too many weeks without getting it done, I go crazy.

Today we had the monitor in the back room of the bank fixed. There are a ton of cameras throughout the branch. While I was watching it span through each picture, it went to a shot of the back of my head. WHAT was going on back there? I'm telling you, I was MORTIFIED. Like... You gotta be kiddin me! How many people have seen this awful sight and not said anything? (Everyone = Rude)

So, I texted my friend, Riana, (she's been living down in UT County for the last few months) and started hoping and praying she'd be coming up to Logan to visit sometime soon. Lo and Behold, a miracle has occurred! Beautiful day! Saturday, she will be in town and she will be doing my hair. What a precious gem and lifesaver she is!!! I can't wait!!!

Never thought I'd say this...

We might be throwin out our blackberrys and switching over to iPhones. My contract with t-mobile ends this weekend, and I've been doing a ton of research to find what plan would work best for us. For the last year, we've been on separate plans, so pretty much any family planned that we joined would be a cheaper deal for us.

And now I'm having an internal battle. I've loved my blackberry! We've been together for 2 precious years now. I love bbm'ing with some of my best friends. Having instant conversations with them since they're blackberry users. It's a delicate situation, considering giving all that up. I know I'll be gaining a lot with the iPhone, but it's still hard to let go of the BB. This whole thing is driving me absolutely crazy and giving me a headache.

I know I'm addicted to my Curve, but I'm really worried that THIS will happen to me. And my sweet husband. It's inevitable I guess. (My bro-in-law is the funniest guy... I love how witty he is.) But it's a serious issue that we have to fully understand if we are going to choose this path.

Anniv Wknd!

What a fabulous weekend! We had such a great time celebrating our first year of marriage. Friday night, we stayed at the Marriott here in Logan. We had considered going to here but the rooms that were available seemed pretty cheesy. Kind of hilarious actually. The price wasn't our fav so we opted out and went with the classy Marriott. Conveniently enough, our favorite restaurant here is Elements, which is SO yummy. These drinks and our appetizer (Ahi Tuna Spring Rolls) were the only visually appealing part of our dinner. The main dishes looked gross in the pic I took, although VERY tasty!

Then on Saturday, luckily neither of us had to work, so we went down to SLC for a bit of shopping. There were a couple of things that we had both been needing and Collin never spent his birthday $$, so we went down with the intention of not being practical. And that's exactly what happened. We couldn't resist though. We rarely go shopping, and Collin really needed a suit. So we got him 2. And me 1. But doesn't he look dapper?

We did our shopping at Nordys and had an early dinner at Cheesecake Factory. Even though the weather was less than cooperative with all the rain and sleet, we had a great time in Salt Lake.

Here we are after church so happy to be so in love and to have had such a great Anniversary. Yep! We love each other!

365 Days of Collin

Wahoo! We have been married 1 year! What a year! For our Anniversary, in commemoration of it, I thought I'd create a post with 365 things I love about Collin. If this will make you nauseous or angry, just skip the disgusting details.

365 things I love about Collin/our marriage (in no particular order...)

tall * amazing dresser * great style * athletic * hilarious * makes me laugh every day * appreciative * helpful * humble * spiritual * strong testimony * hard-working * great driver * kisses x 3 ... every time * wedding rings (mine and his) * goldsmithing skills * he made me a bracelet to match his rings * the other 2 rings he's made me * great with kids * loves his family * loves my family * honors his parents * his hands * "loves" my cooking (even when it's awful) * takes me on dates * spoils me * crochets * so artistic * drawings during church * beats me all the time @ Jeopardy * dominates Final Jeopardy * SO smart * understanding * happy * handwriting * church lessons (when he teaches our Gospel Principles class) * his hugs * how he plays basketball * how excited he is about basketball * his signature * his jokes * his shoes * sometimes OCD * genuine prayers * his idiosyncrasies * his hygiene * Loves the Savior * Frugal * His smell * he hates blogging/facebook/any social network * quick witted * knows how to make me feel better * perceptive * a drok (yes.. a drok) * his stories at the end of the day * devotion to school (as much as he'd never admit it) * his salad dressing ... took after his dad on this one * friendly * how animated he gets about certain things * his traditions * taste in music * mid-day text messages * obsession with keeping his hair short * can rock any hair length (although he prefers it buzzed) * Super Mario Bros Wii * makes up songs * the way his booty looks in his jeans * how much he loves Golf * how excited he is for warm weather * San Diego Padre fan for life * San Diego Charger fan for life * Tolerance for Colorado sports teams * honesty * movie night snuggles * game nights * ESPN for breakfast * ESPN before bed * cute little scar on his mouth * photogenic * trunk full of sporting equip't * passionate hatred for Wal-Mart * when his eyebrows quiver * woo-woo * inside jokes * silly sayings * lunch breaks every day together * holding hands * knowledge of things at work * "nutterbutter" * he doesn't want pets (yes, i love this... no pets please) * supports me * pushes me out of the bed when he knows I want to be at the gym at 5:30am * his happy dances * morning chats while getting ready for work * he loves the blow drier on cold mornings * takes care of me * his secret cookie recipe (from sam's club) * positivity * appreciation for chick flicks/drama * sarcastic commentary during said dramas * his "honey, i'm home" whistle as he gets home * loves Seinfeld * encouraging * simplicity * funny faces * clean * strong * sound sleeper * sexy (had to throw this one in there) * loves the Beach * eats "Rothey Fast" * doesn't drink soda * helps me not eat candy * movie quotes * insightful * winks * when he skypes with his parents in Africa * how much he loves his nieces and nephers * punctual * precise * compassionate * ambitious * "aw nuts" * competitive * never angry * "oh ya" * easy to please * no fights * love his laugh * when he shares his memories with me * sensitivity * takes every opportunity to tease me (in a cute funny way) * how ticklish he is, even though he says he isn't * how he never lets me win when we wrestle * his walk * his bashful look when he does or says something silly * pretends to be sad or upset (always makes me laugh) * his water whistle (a bird in the house) * his daily routine * his dreams * compliments * he notices EVERYTHING * his chin * very observant * HE is the one to drive the cart at the grosh * how he loves peanut butter * nicknames/pet names * he can do anything * calms and soothes me when I'm frustrated * that he answers the phone "bueno" when I call * how he talks to me * his future plans * "doesn't" * statements in the form of questions * his smile * his fashion sense... for him and me * always remembers bdays * impressive * talented * concerned for the well-being of others * he'll watch what I want to watch on TV * "lets" me choose where/what to eat * surprises me ALL the time * low-maintenance * reads scrips w/ me every night * prays with me every day * he wants to spend eternity w/ me * makes me smile * he can read people * loves me * calls it like he sees it * makes me want to be a better person * tries hard to be his best every day * diligent with his homework and studying * focused *patriarch of our home * teaches me something new every day * loves and appreciates art * love for God's creations * loves clouds * appreciates landscape * loves Spanish * loves what I love * knowledge of the scriptures * understanding of the temple * wants to be the father of my children * perfect height * always trying to be better * helps me want to be better * willing to help my friends * willing to take my friends as his own * the way he rubs his head * his big scar on his elbow * appreciation for jewelry * knows what I want before I know what I want * probably knows me better than I know me * voices * knack for gardening * all the things he learned from his parents * he likes me to read his homework with him * likes for me to be involved with him * his chuckle * his love for his blanket * attachment to his pillow * how well he does the dishes * tidbits of advice (he's known for this one, esp with his family) * gives me chills * perfectly groomed nails and toe nails * excellent commentary no matter what we're watching on TV * that he doesn't like to listen to the radio or music on Sundays * lives the Gospel * understanding of the Atonement * his excitement for Christmas * how he makes fun of the things i say "what?" * moles * freckles * calls me his Mexican * "bear" * how awesome he is at the etch-a-sketch ... blows my mind * how much he hates taking pictures * that he's so cute when he's forgetful * tells the truth * "nuffing" * trustworthy * that we think the same things are dumb * he loves pizza * he's particular * his outfits * that he loves to play bball with my family * that my nephews adore him * "funny side" * that he loves our bed * his snores * "haffa lemme's" * loves the lake * can wake board * how much he admires his sibs * loves to travel * wears his uggs everywhere * likes to shop * his nose * his teeth * lu you's * shares the remote with me * loves brownies * he gets tan * plays tennis with me, even though he's way better * A.D.D. sometimes * "fing" * makes me cookies * "awesome" * vans * loves TiVo * makes up songs in the car * thinks I'm funny * laughs at me, even when I'm not funny * how he whistles * "bays" * how he mimics mario and waluigi * loves macs * loves summer * strong faith * lets me put my cold feet on his * will snuggle with me for a sec even if he doesn't wanna * sayings from his dad * funny convo's with bro's and friends * his special pens (macron .005) * protruding chest bone *"just sayin" * "all of em" * that he repeats the funny/silly things i say * tucks me in like a burrito * loves our couch * nerd * zones out * "we did it" * how he scratches his finger with my nail when he holds my hand * likes to make sure things are even * silly tongue faces * "oh my goodness" * ay ay ay * perfect parker * lets me snuggle and fall asleep while he watches tv * optimistic * best sharer * yawn stopper * his neck is ticklish * how he acts surprised when he's not * best present guesser ever * always tells me to drive safe * prayer schedule * that we finished the BofM together for the first time exactly 8 months after we got married * that we read 1 chapter in the scriptures each night * likes to be healthy * likes to run the Sawtelle Stampede for 4th of July * loves Island Park * remembers everything * his little mole next to his nose * confident * but can be self-conscious * knows a ton about his job/workplace * work-ethic * how much he hates to drive/travel long distances * knows all sorts of jingles/slogans * willingness to help * rocks at games * mixed Spanish sentences * always wins * loves old fashioned pb & j * brings lots of new ideas to my life and our marriage * how he loves to lay on the floor at his parents house * the things he says under his breath * dominates every sport he plays * helps me be nice to others * willing to try new things * makes me feel comfortable * easy to get along with * his big brown eyes * whenever he touches my hand, he always makes sure my ring isn't twisted or fallen to the side * always concerned with how I feel * always kisses me goodnight * will do the things that matter to me even when he doesn't want to * always takes out the trash * we've never been in a fight * "what doing?" * loves our cozy basement apt * loves me so much that I never question his love for me * always asks me about my day/work * gracious * good listener * deep thinker * "special with me" * loves toys * practical * logical * my best friend * changed my life for the bestest * intuitive * a softy * his patriarchal blessing * respect for the Priesthood * realistic * takes care of my ailments * helps me with my bad habits * rocks at Travelpod * pensive * hard to stump * always on top of his game * problem solver * gives people the benefit of the doubt * loves seeing his family * talks to me about his frustrations rather than keeping them bottled up * strengthens his weaknesses * makes time for the things that are most important * finds the good qualities in people * can throw a football REALLY far * asks excellent questions * asks excellent questions at SpotLightNight * reads people well * has great friends * keeps good friends * is loved by A LOT of people * my family loves him * remembers all the cute and funny things his nieces and nephews say * always tries to have a good attitude, no matter the situation * so fun to be around, even when we're not doing anything * the best husband EVER!

OK, I'm pretty sure that was 365. I kept track the whole way through. It took me a while, but it was really easy to do. And when I finally got to 365, I felt like I could keep on going. Maybe another time. This has been the best anniversary! We never celebrated an anniversary together, even though we dated for a long time before sealing the deal. I think that has made Numero Uno that much more special.

Happy Anniversary, my Love! I love you!!!

Anniversary Weekend

Yesterday I was talking to my sister, Jen, on the phone (big surprise, I know... I talk to my sisters everyday, so get off my back). Anyway, we were talking about the upcoming weekend, and I mentioned it's our 1 yr anniv. She one-upped me and reminded me that yesterday was her and Dustins 1 yr of their engagement! That brought back a bunch of memories. The night that Collin and I flew in to Colorado, Jen and Dustin came through the door just minutes after we arrived. They surprised us with the great news.

I remember a couple of people asking me how I felt about that; if I felt like they were raining on our parade and stealing the spotlight. A) That's absurd. Of course I love spotlights, but they're usually big enough for a couple people. 2) We were lucky the weather was awesome and there was no rain. So the parade was still perfect. and D) We felt GREAT about them getting engaged!

**So here's to you, Jen and Dustin! And to your little peanut! They just got back from a dream vaca to New Zealand and Australia and I can't wait to hear and see more about it.**

This weekend, neither Collin nor I have to work, which is a blessing. We are going to dinner at our favorite fancy restaurant in Logan (Elements... we went there for Collins Bday, New Years, and pretty much any excuse for a "special occasion") and we're going to stay at the Marriott here in town. Exotic, I know. It's no trip to Costa Rica (like we'd kinda planned for the spring), but we're going to Africa. Obviously. I've pretty much run this one to the ground, but it's cool enough to milk for the rest of 2010. Maybe even 2011.

Anyway. I love Collin. A lot.

Perfect Situation!

I think everyone is well aware of how incredible my family is. I talk about my parents and siblings all the time. And although we lives hundreds of miles apart, I feel exceptionally blessed to have such phenomenal relationships with my family. I must boast even beyond that. As Collin and I approach our 1st Anniversary, I can't help but recognize how lucky I am to have married into the Rothey family. Collin is the 6th of 7 children and we are fortunate to have 4 of his 6 siblings in Davis County, only an hours drive South of Logan. We have had the opportunity to spend time with the Rothey's at least once a month, sometimes more. I love getting together for Birthday Dinner or Birthday Dessert. I adore his siblings. And their kids. Even the 2 sibs that live in AZ and CA are incredible and because of weddings, mission farewells and holidays, we've even been able to see them a few times, too. In reflecting on Year 1 of this life we've started together, I love that family has doubled in size. I love that my family loves Collin and like I said before, I love the Rothey's. It honestly is the perfect situation. We are Blessed!

Water = Winner

I went to fill up my water bottle today! Soda didn't even look good. Not even the DP. I love drinking multiple bottles of water every day. And I love that I don't even need no less WANT soda anymore. Not even addicted.

I keep hoping that candy follows suit and that I don't have the cravings or the yearnings anymore. But that just isn't happening. I was reading my cousins blog today and my awesome uncle sent her a box of goodies. She posted a sweet pic and everything. My thoughts while reading the post and seeing the pic? I wanted that box. Of course it was full of candy. Of course it was full of love. Maybe that's why I love candy. Candy = Love. Candy is my addiction. Or maybe its not anymore! We'll see.

ANOTHER ONE?!

Jen and Dustin

are

having

a

This will be Nephew #7 for us on the Thornton side! Boys will be outnumbering the girls 7 to 5! I thought we'd be evening up the scores, but it turns out this generation will be boy-dominant... Cory's dream come true, I'm sure!

It's been a few weeks since I've been to Colorado, but word on the streets is that the twins are growing like crazy and absolutely adorable. I can't wait to see them and the rest of the rugrats again! Lucky for me, Cory and Tiffany are coming to visit us in a few weeks.

Collin and I are elated to have visitors, since it's not all too often that we get company! I can't wait to see them, and I love that they're venturing to Utah for their spring break rather than going somewhere exotic and different. :) I won't try to convince them to go anywhere else though. I'm still a selfish sister who will take all the time with family that I can get.

Work Changes

As some of you may know, I scored a sweet job here in Logan last August. I'm totally loving it because it has the perfect amounts of challenge, fun and awesomeness. Yes! Awesomeness! Anyway, about a week and half ago, we were instructed to extend our hours by 1. Instead of closing at 6, we will be in business until 7 pm every weeknight so that we can accommodate all of our customers needs.

I know, I should be used to "retail hours" after all of those years at Nordstrom but it's been way too long, and I didn't want to keep those hours anymore. I guess it's ok on the days I'm the closer, because I don't have to go into work until 10:15am. But when I get up for 5:30am Turbo Kick class, I have lots of time in between. This is my first week with the 10:15-7:15 shift, so we'll see how it goes!

Day 1 Result: Turbo, then home for shower, then dropped Collin off for his class. Dropped by the grosh to get bread, shampoo and deodorant. Home to fix my hair. Back to pick up Collin from class. Home for a Lucky Charms Breakfast with Collin. Send Collin off to work at 9. Nap from 9-9:30 (I didn't need it at all but I guess it was sort of nice). I wish I would have done a little bit more like some dishes or fold the clean clothes. Although, the Mr. will be at school from 7-9 (yes, we'll miss each other) so I'll have time to make dinner and do whatever cleaning I missed in the morning.

It'll be great. It'll be great. It'll be great. As long as I keep telling myself this, it WILL be great! :)

My new Fav!

As some of you may remember, a few months ago I was totally obsessed with red finger nail polish. I'm not sure if it's the change in season, or just ready for something new but I'm absolutely loving this color.

It's such a pretty color and doesn't look awful if I smudge it or have a tiny chip, whereas with the red, it was flashy and pretty, but every little scratch shows up on that stuff. So, I'm just loving this color! Try it out!

March!

I love March! For so many reasons! The biggest one is probably the fact that we were married in March! Our Anniversary, yes, our 1 year Anniversary, is on the 14th. It's crazy that a year has already gone by. Naturally, March brings back fond memories. Getting married, having our reception, going on our honeymoon cruise to Mexico, moving into our adorable apartment. All wonderful things.

Hence,

I

March!

Still going Strong!!

We're already into March, and I'm still off of Soda and Candy. I consider it quite a feat, and although my brother and I harrass eachother daily about giving in, we're both going strong. There have been countless days where I have really badly wanted candy. But Valentines Day is over, and now I just have to get through all the Easter Candy that is luring me in. Just taking it one holiday at a time. I must say, it's quite easy to resist the temptation of soda. I am becoming addicted to water. The can't be a bad thing, right?

We get to stay!

• Good news! We get to stay in our basement! Our contract is coming to an end, since we've been living there almost a year. Yesterday, Collin talked to our LandLady, Mary. And she told Collin that she DEFINITELY wants us to stay. We think it helps them, especially since they get a couple hundred dollars for rent from us. Every little bit helps, esecially when they own 2 homes and have been trying to sell the one for years now.

• I'm so thrilled that we get to stay though. I have been looking for a new place for us, but nothing comes close to what we have. Sure, it's a little small and I wouldn't mind upgrading to a bigger bedroom, or a closet big enough to hold our clothes in one place (that may never happen though). But we are so comfortable and love our little place. It really is perfect for us. We'll probably start going Month to Month instead of a year long contract, but this way, we'll be able to move out if the home gets sold, or if we don't like the new homeowners. What a glorious day to find out we get to stay! So excited!

We're Really Doin It!

*AAAAAFRICA*

Well, this weekend, we booked our flights for Africa. We leave May 11 and come back May 22! It's all becoming so real. And now that it's March, we're only 2 months away. There is so much to consider and to get done.

*SHOTS*

The appointment is scheduled for our vaccines. We have to get a bunch of them. Yellow Fever and Malaria shots for sure, and a couple others too. We figure out all that stuff next Tuesday at our appointment with the county health department.

*VISAS*

We have to get visiting Visas so that we can get in and out of the country. Apparently, it only takes 3-5 days, but I don't know that I trust that speediness. Better to take care of it sooner, rather than later. I've been spending a lot of my time on the Department of State website, and hopefully I get all the information accurate.

*PASSPORTS*

We both have our visas, luckily! Although, I'm not sure what to do about mine. It has my maiden name on it, which is obviously different from what it is now and what's on my Drivers License. I better get that figured out, especially since we're only 71 days out. CRAZY!!

*LUCKILY*

We are super lucky, because we don't have to worry about transportation, hotels, or anything like that. Lou and Jeri have a truck and an extra bedroom in their apartment. I get more and more excited all the time. We're going to Africa. This is such a once in a lifetime thing. There's no way we'd ever go to Africa, but luckily Lou and Jeri are serving their mission there, making all our dreams come true. We just need to get all of our ducks in a row so we can get out there!