The Youngs

6 Months & Kickin'

2012-02-05T21:12:00.000-08:00

Tommy's greatest milestones lately: playing and being a ham.

He's rolling around the room, jabbering, spitting, eating lots of food, sitting up with all the other tough guys, and handing out smiles and belly laughs like it's no big deal.

He eats his feet (and ANYTHING that he can get near his face) 'cause it's the cool thing to do.

He wants to move. He really thinks about it. He might even spin in a circle, but when it comes down to it, rolling is his travel of choice.

Thomas loves his weekly "Mom's Day". We do it for the kids...it's not like we enjoy it. Sometimes we try to craft. Turns out DIY is totally "in" right now and great for saving money from time to time. Mostly it just stresses me out. My friend, Michelle, picked up all the supplies for these wreaths, which FORCED me to do something creative. I worked up a little sweat with all that hot gluing, but I suppose I could enjoy crafting every now and again...with the proper guidance.

It snowed on Friday. Like crazy. Chris' office was closed and he worked (and played) from home. Above is maybe his fifth trip to the driveway with the shovel. There is still a car across the street today that cannot be seen. It is completely submerged in snow.

No need to go anywhere in that weather. We stayed in our sweats all day long and accomplished some much needed cleaning of the house, and rearranging of the basement...and playing with Tommy.

An awesome book club friend sewed a tie-shirt for T. He thinks it's pretty cool.

Studying the best technique to either bang toys together or bring to mouth.

I wonder how many times I've kissed those cheeks. So many, but never enough.

Daddy, working from home.

I can never read to Thomas before bed/nap time. He pants, squawks, and kicks his legs in excitement. He loves those books.

Aimsley, Thomas, and Calum are into scary movies lately. They really give Thomas a thrill....or maybe this was the Super Bowl...

Party kids.

What a crew. T is lucky to have such great friends!

Our First Date

2012-01-27T21:40:00.000-08:00

without Thomas since he was born.

We went with friends to Impulse Theater in downtown Denver tonight. It's a live improv show like "Whose line is it Anyway?" I love that TV show, but was skeptical at what a production in the basement of a tavern may be like. It was cheek-numbingly funny (thanks Chris, for just the right word) and good, clean humor, too. For 90 minutes, I did not stop smiling.

Now let me back up...first date without Thomas...This afternoon, he would not nap. He needs naps. I hoped, though, that this meant he would fall asleep earlier and stay asleep. He did zonk just before I picked up the babysitters.

Two adorable, fun, energetic sisters agreed to watch Thomas for the evening. Before the production even began, I beheld this lovely text, "Thomas is crying like crazy. What do you do to calm him down?" I had just enough time to send a few suggestions before we were in the "no-phone-zone".

Long story short, we enjoyed the show. Arrived home before 10. Tommy did have some good time with the girls, but when I picked him up out of his crib, he was hysterical. Poor kid, but really, poor girls.

This night was oh-so good for Chris and me. Some much needed fun time to ourselves. However, Mr. T shared his 2 cents...he's just not ready for a successful babysitting experience just yet.

He was happy to see me. That, and crazy-happy-sad-tired! I held him no longer than a minute in his room before he was asleep.

No thanks!

2012-01-18T09:57:00.000-08:00

Thomas now LOVES his rice cereal. He has recently declined squash, avocado, and even bananas. We won't give up though! This boy can't be missing out on the finer tastes in life.

"Man" Made

2011-12-10T16:52:00.000-08:00

Chris seemed to be doing all the sewing around this house, and I wanted in on a little action with my early Christmas gift (sewing machine). It's been 10 years since I'd done such a thing. My Man created a Halloween costume and hemmed and tapered pants with ease. I had to start simple. Stockings, carefully using a pattern...so I finished mine and Thomas'. Chris didn't want to miss out on all the fun, so he made his own.

...and, of course, they're hung with care.

Some things are worth waiting for.

2011-12-06T13:29:00.001-08:00

November 18: Thomas turned 4 months old. He did great with shots and weighed in at 15 lbs (50th percentile) while his precious melon of a head still measured in the 80th percentile.

The doctor gave the go-ahead on rice cereal. Naturally, a couple days later, Thomas tried it and loved it. This was one day before flying to Utah for Thanksgiving. It took ONE DAY to learn a valuable lesson. Don't let your baby try new things right before traveling. Fussiness (luckily not on the plane), inconsolable screaming, and a whole new kind of diaper. Whew! It was a relief when he got that out of his system. T gets a little more time with the "all-milk" diet...like until after Christmas.

We did have a great Young Family Thanksgiving of over-eating (at least I know I did), relaxing, watching movies, a little shopping, and even family pictures (hopefully we'll see those soon!) Unfortunately, I rarely remembered to pull out the camera.

Grandma Young

Cousins, Thomas and Miles, discussed the plans for the release of their band's first album "Baby Did a Bad Bad Thing" with hit single, "Kaboom! That's how I blowout!" Miles gave us a sneak peak during family pictures.

Uncle Spenny!

Grandma and Grandpa Johnson shared some good stories and pie. All in all it was a great vacation!

Our Heathen Christmas

2011-12-04T18:37:00.000-08:00

"Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them.

For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe.

They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not." Jeremiah 10:2-4

I think Chris tried to talk me out of my heathenistic ways when he read this scripture for family night as I pulled out the ornaments. It didn't work.

Merry Christmas 2011!

Thomas had so much fun decorating the tree!!

Family Pictures: FAIL!!!

2011-11-12T16:17:00.000-08:00

I'm seriously somewhere between tears and goofy, crazy laughing. I booked our first family photos for today at 1:40 p.m. at JCPenney (we bought a good Groupon deal. Or so we thought). However, they were a little behind schedule. They didn't actually take the pictures until 4:15. The only other thing I'm going to say about the experience...we could have had a better picture had we sat on our couch and set the timer on our camera. We will soon be getting EIGHT sheets of ONE photo (the only one decent enough to print off). They gave us 2 free sheets for our time. Thanks guys! Get excited family to hang this one on your fridge, tuck it in your wallet, and enjoy. I know you will!

This is how Thomas felt about his wait at the mall. Actually, he was so good and slept and laughed and ate. It was a good afternoon for him, minus the blowout. Luckily, I packed extra clothes for such a situation. We love you, Tommy! You bring us so much joy, even if JCPenney did not capture it.

Picture Me Rollin'

2011-11-05T07:51:00.000-07:00

This tough guy learned a new trick this morning.

He can roll over!

All week Thomas was yelling in frustration during tummy time. He'd been right on the verge of rolling left. Teetering on his side. Tommy and I woke up early this morning. He ate, got a fresh diaper and a clean outfit, and I laid him on his bedroom floor on his tummy. I left the room for a few seconds and returned to see him immediately do this for the first time! Turns out rolling right isn't so difficult as rolling left. Big boy!

Really Spooky

2011-11-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

Last week I got a phone call. A couple girlfriends wanted to throw a Halloween party and I thought that sounded like a lot more fun than just handing out candy. One problem: I have ZERO Halloween decorations. Luckily, between Michelle"s (princess below) great stash of decor and the Dollar Store we made it happen.

*Please ignore the fact that the two photos of my family are HUGE. I'm not that vain. Just figuring out how to do picture collages. I'll get better...hopefully. And in case you can't tell, "Devil"ed egg, Pizza, and Banana.

Chris has never been a big Halloween fan while I've known him. I don't know if it was the new father coming out in him, but he got all festive with the costumes this year. I sent him to the store Saturday for a couple groceries. He returned 2 1/2 hours later with a new sewing machine and fabric. That evening, he sat down and created Thomas' lovely banana costume (zipper and all). I got me a Renaissance Man! Didn't even know he could sew!

We had quite the group of little cuties attend as well. The awesome Marchant boys took time out of trick-or-treating to stop by for a bit. You can tell those brothers are such good buddies! Then Aimsley (pretty little frog in the middle) gathered all her boyfriends around for a photo op.

Happy Halloween! I really want to decorate for Christmas now! Is it too soon?

Tommy's Travels

2011-10-16T20:21:00.000-07:00

Chris, Thomas, and I flew to SLC for my cousin's wedding. It was beautiful and, of course, tons of fun! Those California cousins know how to throw a party! Seriously, best wedding parties ever. I didn't take photos of that, but the event did motivate me to come to town and stay for a week. I have many photos below, so I'll just comment on those. First, I just have to say, there are some perks to flying with an infant (Thomas was truly the perfect traveler, by the way. I feel like everyone must have been praying for us or something. It was amazing). I made my boy very visible as other passengers were selecting their seats, and no one would sit by us. T might as well have had fangs and claws. Good boy, Thomas.

Great-Grandma Young. She is a very determined woman and I love that about this wonderful lady. It is very obvious that her posterity inherited that quality. I fear and hope that Thomas will be just as stubborn.

Auntie Hailey, my best friend since pre-school, met us at Little America. We did not stay at Little America, but I feel any trip to Salt Lake would not be complete without their cushy couches and cozy fireplaces. Great to catch up with Hoodles!

I then left Chris and moved on to Idaho Falls. First thing we did- watch nephew Nicholas' football game. He really guarded his man! It was fun to watch.

If you read my journal from junior high EVERY SINGLE entry included an ode to nephew Jack. "I love Jack!" "P.S. Jack is SOOOOO cute!" I still love this boy so much! He is a good big brother and cousin.

Oh Eliza (Jack's little sister if you can't tell), what a sweetheart.

The Grobergs took us to the big Thomas the Train event. Such awesome displays and models.

The train conductor said I should get on with Thomas. He loved it.

T snoozin with Aunt Angie

We were grateful to have a visit with Aunt Patti and Great-Grandma Shirley. Grandma Shirley has not been feeling well, but looks as classy as ever. She is so dedicated to her family. I love her!

Thomas met a new friend, Miss Karli Pickett! They will have to be life-long buddies whenever we visit Idaho Falls. She belongs to one of my best friends, Brittany. Such a cute little lady!

Pure chaos! Thanks for being family friendly, Yogart Store! We sure enjoyed ourselves....running, dancing, crying, laughing, making yogart soups, and trying not to lose anyone. During all this, Thomas fell asleep on my lap. Oh, to be a newborn baby.

Grandma Young was able to hold her first two grandbabies together. Miles Morris was born on his due date, October 8. Good timing Miles! We loved meeting you! Thomas is happy to have a cousin less than 3 months his junior. No boring fam jams for these fellows.

Grandpa Young and the boys! Mark and Judy better start getting used to their new titles. :)

What a great vacation! Tommy's got a good life.

Dancing with the Russians

2011-09-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

It's fun to switch up the workout routine sometimes. I put an aerobics video on hold at the library. It made my day to see this cover upon picking it up. These ladies can move! Yes, I did end up actually checking it out. (You never know...maybe you do...) Now, I'm back to walking with Thomas.

"I know what we need! The perfect cheer!!"

2011-09-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

OR, the perfect swaddle! Chris really has swaddling down to an art form. I'm not bad, but the dad-man does it so well that I sometimes won't undue it in the middle of the night to change a stinky diaper. Bad mom? I don't know, but definitely a tired mom. No sneaky hands will be creeping out of this thing!

Tommy's milestones this week (week 7):

So on the verge of a giggle
Lots of smiles and new baby noises "cooing"
Scooting up mom's body. I'll lay Thomas face-down on my tummy and put my hands below his feet so he has leverage. He scoots up and up till he dives over my shoulder onto the bed or wherever we are laying. This boy wants to go places!
Responding to his name...really?? I'm still not sure this could be possible, but he did it 5 separate times tonight. However, he might have also turned when Chris called, "William!" We'll have to keep testing this one. At least we know he can hear.
Definitely responds well to music. If my playlist or song ends, T takes it personal and quite vocally protests to the interruption.
And finally, we're getting the inkling that Mr. Thomas might be dealing with colic or at least tummy troubles. The week before his blessing was a blissful one for the both of us. T was sleeping 5-6 hours at night, and napping a lot during the day, and then so happy when he woke up. He carried out this routine while family was here through Monday. Tuesday hit, and I thought we might have a new baby on our hands. He's been incredibly fussy, especially after feedings, and sleeping very random, short stints during the day. People say first-time moms are always calling their pediatrician. I always try to do my research and try new things before I resort to that, but I believe tomorrow I'll be making that phone call. Poor guy really will cry away a good chunk of the afternoon...and sometimes morning...no matter what we do.

I really have to say a big THANK YOU!! to the inventors of the Baby Bjorn. T protests at first, but finally gives in and usually falls asleep so I can carry him around and still be a human being during the day.

YOUNG FAMILY CHALLENGE!

This came at the perfect time for me. I heard Jayme (SIL) suggesting a fitness challenge from our family room last weekend, and I came flying down the stairs to get in on it. This is just the motivation that Chris and I needed after T's birth. We're each setting our own goals...don't know the reward yet. Chris and I both have different weight-loss goals. We're counting calories on myfitnesspal.com, working out regularly, and I personally plan to be able to complete 25 well-formed push-ups. This all must be done by Thanksgiving. Veggies are fast becoming our best friends. Chocolate Molten Lava Cake at Chili's...not so much. That was one of my last big indulgences, and I had to skip dinner for it. It was worth it.

We still can have yummy dinners like this. So what if we feel like we're starving sometimes!

Labor Day Weekend & T's Blessing

2011-09-07T14:36:00.000-07:00

We had tons of family support this weekend for Thomas' baby blessing! All my sisters, sister-in-law & 2 of her kiddos, both our parents, and Chris' sibs (minus Jess and Adam who are expecting baby Miles in a month). We ate tons of food (at least I know I did), shopped (of course), went on walks (again, of course...that's what my family is famous for), chatted, watched football, and enjoyed T's special day.

Sister Brittany and niece Savannah- Friday night we celebrated Britt's birthday with gifts & dessert. She's finally reached a new decade! She will always be about 25 in my mind! :)

Tommy LOVES his swaddle

Proud Mommy

and proud Dad

The Young clan present

Thomas with Dad and Grandpa Young

The Nelson family...wow, lots of ladies!

*all the above photos were taken by my sister Michele

Uncle Spence took good care of Thomas. Let's see if we can get him to keep changing diapers over Thanksgiving. :)

Watching the game with the boys

Lovin' on Grandma Young!

Mark and Judy treated us all to home-made raspberry ice cream. SO YUMMY!

And a couple photos of Little Man for good measure. Thanks everyone who made the trip out here! We have the best family---EVER!

Romantic Getaway

2011-08-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

Chris' co-worker gave him a little deal to rent his condo in Keystone for our 3-year anniversary last weekend. We went out to a nice dinner, took some beautiful walks and drives, Chris made us breakfast at the condo, ordered in amazing pizza (sounds like we just ate the whole time...), explored down-town Breckenridge (beautiful!), watched movies, and hit up the Silverthorne Outlets.

Notice how I took so many pictures of these fun things.

Tommy geared up for a romantic dinner

His cozy bed in our room

Chris and T enjoying each others' company. Did I go on this trip... :)

It really was fantastic to get away and have a change of scenery.

Baff Time!

2011-08-12T08:15:00.000-07:00

"I'd like to do that again!"

Wordclouds

2011-08-10T21:51:00.000-07:00

Mr. Young taught me this nifty trick: creating wordclouds from large bodies of text. I instantly tested it out on my own blog and thought it was rather telling!

The larger the word, the more times it is used. As you will instantly see, the winner, by far is 'Thomas'. Amusing, as he has only been in our life for three weeks! I'm obsessed!

Thank you, Wordle.net.

Back to School!

2011-08-09T15:06:00.000-07:00

I love Fall when everyone is looking fresh in their back-to-school wardrobes and back packs are full of new school supplies. It is, however the beginning of August and about 90 degrees here in Colorado, and the poor children are already back in their classrooms as of yesterday! I thought my Beehives might need a little treat to help set the mood for SCHOOL. I'm in no way crafty, so if you can't tell, these are pencils (wrapped up Rolos). I think chocolate is a great way to set the mood for about anything.

"Shawty you da hottest..."

2011-08-05T13:17:00.000-07:00

"...You can have whatever you like, yeah." About 3 a.m. on Thomas' second night of life, he was inconsolable unless he had been eating at least every hour. I did the c-section safety roll out of my hospital bed and sang this lovely lullaby (Thank you T.i. for the tender lyrics) to my boy and proceeded to feed him yet again. He obviously took these words to heart, as I'm still feeding on demand(not every hour anymore...well it has happened on occasion), then burping, changing diapers, and staring at my sweet boy, as long as I can stay awake and can avoid living a normal, productive life.

Last night was the first time that lack of sleep finally got to me. He was being especially spazzy. Demanding to eat and then just fooling around when I provided him food. Poor little T-Bomb is dealing with a case of thrush that bothers him just enough to prevent either of us from getting enough sleep. Hopefully, this medicine will do it's job quick! He finally zonked just before 6 a.m. Perfect timing for Chris' alarm clock to go off, which, of course, Chris never seems to hear so it kept ringing and ringing and...Thomas woke up again. I did shed a couple tears over that one.

I don't want to talk Thomas down though. :) We LOVE this awesome little guy and have had so much fun with him already.

The above photo perfectly depicts the state in which Thomas and I spend our day until about noon. I'm just trying to "enjoy every minute" like everyone says to do...that, or being completely lazy while enjoying every minute. I'm slowly working up to living a "real" life. I promise, I do get out. Actually, we make sure to get out at least once every day. My mom stressed the importance of doing so. "At least shower in the morning. You'll feel much better." she encouraged me. :)

Gram B with her favorite grandchild ever, I'm sure!

My slave, I mean my mom visited for a few days last week. Dinners, treats, vacuuming, cleaning bathrooms, weeding, watering plants, dusting, baby loving, get-daughter-out-of-house-ing! This lady never stopped! It was fantastic!

My brother and his wife visited with their 6 children for less than 2 hours. It was a fun whirlwind of energetic bodies with treats and games. Thomas poses with Baerett, his oldest cousin. Cute faces, guys!

Thomas was really hurting for attention, as you can see, when Grandma and Grandpa Young brought two of his uncles to visit. Again, our family went to work! Spraying for bugs, lots of yard work, yummy dinners out, and home-made strawberry ice cream!

Thomas relaxing after a good meal

Stats:

Birth:

8lbs 8oz

20 inches long

2 1/2 weeks:

9lbs 3oz (55th percentile in weight)

21 1/2 inches long (95th percentile in height)

and 85th percentile for head size. NO SURPRISE there!

Thomas Mark Young

2011-07-23T20:44:00.001-07:00

He's 5 days old today. We're pretty tired and I'm still sore, but we've never been happier. We're in love.

Baby Baby Baby

2011-07-05T20:08:00.000-07:00

Yep, it's a Bieber parody. Grandma B requested (forced) Chris to write a song for my baby shower a couple months ago. Fitting today as we impatiently anticipate Junior's arrival. I've finally dilated 1 cm! ha! I also enjoyed that the doctor was able to approximate the baby's weight by feeling my stomach. Sorry Doc, I'm not falling for it, but thanks for trying.

Castlewood Canyon

2011-07-03T12:03:00.000-07:00

Last Friday=my last day of work outside the home for...a while. It was only slightly sad...which I think means I was VERY ready to be done. Anyway, Chris and I have thoroughly enjoyed this weekend with mini-golf dates, eating at unique restaurants and small-town diners, and getting back into our exploring Colorado routine of last summer. Yesterday morning, after our ward "4th of July" breakfast, we hiked at Castlewood Canyon. At 8 1/2 months pregnant, my pace was slow and I came home and slept most of the afternoon away.

Sure was nice to take these swollen ankles/feet for a dip!

The boy, he's been driving me nuts with his non-stop anticipation of Baby. Now, I'm right there with him, wondering when Little Guy will make his grand entrance.

Happy 4th of July! I'm missing family and friends and Idaho Falls this holiday. We're trying to stay busy since we know we're missing the 12th Annual Nelson Golf Classic and all the festivities at the Kevin Call Car Barn. AND the biggest firework show west of the Mississippi! Come on, Little Man, get here!

40 Years

2011-06-22T20:32:00.000-07:00

Doug and Billie (dad & mom) visited over their 40th wedding anniversary

Gram B helped me spruce up some things inside while Papa D and I planted flowers out front

To celebrate 40 YEARS we explored Garden of the Gods and enjoyed a nice dinner in Manitou Springs.

And I celebrated being 8 months pregnant and looking...awesome! :)

Stinky Issue

2011-06-14T07:44:00.000-07:00

Chris was traveling for work about a month ago, but so kindly set up a security system in our house and a motion sensor light in our back yard just before ditching me. 10pm rolled around and the light out back suddenly flipped on. I immediately flew up the stairs and locked myself in our room until morning. When Chris returned, I told him about my scare. Sure enough, it happened again (luckily, this time while Chris was home) and we discovered our intruder. A bushy-tailed, stinking skunk. It turns out that animal control won't do a thing about it so, now we begin to use our own methods of skunk-repellent. I will not have my son cuddling a smelly rodent!

I also thought you might enjoy veiwing this recent photo of me while we were camping...oh wait, that's an EWOK! So, my cheeks have obviously filled out during pregnancy and then I have been sporting this pregnancy (raccoon) mask. I usually wake up especially swollen and un-made-up and Chris compared me to this creature that I'd never heard of (I missed the Star Wars band-wagon growing up). I'd be offended, but it's so true! I almost posted a comparison picture here to prove it, but I'll let you imagine the resemblance. :)

Hallelujah!

2011-06-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

Above: Our home when we moved in: DEAD GRASS AND DIRT

Chris' brothers (Spence and Jake) helped us rip up the lawn. Brother-in-law,Bobby, helped us fix some sprinkler problems, and we called in the Sprinkler Guy to figure some more problems. It was a lovely, on-going process. Chris finally replaced some sprinkler heads so we(he) could get to work laying sod.

And there we have it! A GREEN lawn!!! As Chris put it, we no longer look like the low-lifes of the neighborhood. Well done Christopher! I couldn't help with the lawn, but you may notice a few flowers planted up our walk-way... The day after I did that strenuous labor and cleaned the house, I could hardly move. What's up with this pregnancy thing and extreme exhaustion?? Less than 6 weeks left!

IF Shower and Strebel Visit to Colorado

2011-06-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

My life is grand! Some of my great friends came to a baby shower in Idaho Falls. Searley surprised us with great news...TRIPLETS! ...maybe not, but she didn't want to look outdone by the three prego ladies on the couch.
Little Miss Mona had a heck of a time

Steph-a lovely hostess and game planner :)

Next: Strebels Visit! Denver Zoo and Rockies game... Don't mind the 2 giraffes in the corner...it's Spring!

Busted! Put your hands where I can see them!

Emerson NEEDED that cotton candy. We kept those kids out WAY passed their bedtimes two nights in a row! What troopers!

Jumping Back to April

2011-06-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Nieces: Sophie, Brielle, Ashley, and Savannah are pretty pumped about attending Baby Young's first shower

All my ladies!

Angie and Hayley being hostesses...or eating cake?

The ever-classy Grandma Shirley

I was pretty excited about these cute rocker ducks that Angie and Eliza picked out for Little Man.

Apparently cousin Amy was too! When it was time to leave, she shoved all 4 in her pockets and refused to give them back. And I always thought she was satisfied with ribbons! Angie cheered up the pregnant lady by giving me the extra set of duckies she purchased. Everyone went home happy. :)

There's nothing awkward about this picture Chele Bell!

A sister picture

Why is there so much posing at a baby shower?

The beautiful Call girls! :) Mama Billie, Aunt Die Die, and Aunty Suzie Q.
We need to get this singing trio going again!

Our Newest Addition

2011-05-29T19:08:00.000-07:00

If you've been thinking that I don't blog much...get ready! In the next bit I plan to recap the month of May and...I took some PICTURES!!

I returned today from my last-hoorah-trip to Idaho before Oscar comes. (No, we have not really selected a name for Baby Young yet...but we call him Oscar at work...or Q).

Anyway, back to the trip. So, I visited family and had a great shower with friends. (I'll post the shower pictures later. They are fun. It was fun!)

My greatest reason for returning home was to attend the sealing of J.R./Jonathan to my sister's little family. For the past year, he's fit right into the family as their foster son and now,with the adoption final, they can be together forever!

The lovely Strebel Family

Emerson was so proud of the temple booklet he colored in the nursury while waiting for everyone to gather for the sealing. He wanted it in every picture!

Carly loves to talk about her brothers. In fact, she proclaimed yesterday that she wants to be a boy when she grows up. Sorry Carly!

Good thing these little squishes can be together forever!

Siblings! Britt, Hay, Angie, Barb, Ryan, Michele, and Nikki

There's a belly shot for the world! That dress nicely accentuates my GROWING belly/baby. But really, Ithink it just exploded this week. I've also enjoyed being swollen for the first time. My enlarged ankles give the pretty look of tree trunks. Only 7 weeks left!

In loving memory

2011-05-21T19:32:00.000-07:00

The past few months I've enjoyed serving in our ward's Young Womens presidency. I've learned so much from the other women I serve with and have come to love them.

Among these great women, I met Kelly Lamb. From the get-go Kelly always made me feel like a friend even though she was more than 20 years my senior. The day I was sustained in sacrament meeting, she was sitting behind me. When I sat down she tapped me on the shoulder and excitedly told me how much she looked forward to working with me. Wednesday night last week, Kelly suffered an unexpected stroke. She passed away just this last Wednesday, May 18th. She had a great impact on many lives, including my own. She is missed.

I could recount many stories about the great person that Kelly was even from just the few months that I knew her. I'll just share one of the last opportunities I had to spend time with her. Two nights before her stroke, we had a Relief Society activity on gardening in her back yard. I arrived a little late after work. Kelly took time out from the rest of the group with me so I could have a personal tour of her garden and yard (which was beautiful). When I had to leave, she said good-bye and squeezed my hand like an old friend. It was just a small and simple thing, but significant to me. I will never forget Kelly.

I'm grateful for Kelly's life and example. She did so much for other people. She was a wonderful and Christ-like person who made me want to be better and do more. Her love for God and the gospel is a legacy that I'll cherish. Thank you, Kelly, for making my life better for having known you.

Wonderful Whirlwind of a Week

2011-04-11T16:29:00.001-07:00

I'm still recovering (literally, I'm sick, oh well)! Chris and I drove to Idaho and Utah for a few days last week. Mom and "the girls" threw me a "Rockabye Baby" shower in honor of Chris' love for music. Chris even made a guest performance. It sadly didn't get recorded, but cousin Amy was singing along with everybody else. So fun! (Of course I didn't get any pics of the actual shower....Michele was the evening's photographer so I hope to get some copies here soon!

We also enjoyed just as much family time with the nieces and nephews as we could fit in during our 27 hour stay. A few of those moments were captured in photos below. Baby Young is grandchild #20 on the Nelson side. He'll be lucky to have so many FUN cousins!

AND...I enjoyed a second shower at Chris' aunt's house in Layton. I brought home so much great loot from both parties! (again, no pictures). Thanks family for spoiling us and baby Young!

It wouldn't be a party at Billie's (mom's) house without the carpet vacuumed into perfect triangles!

I loved that mom got the inkling to make a poster at 2 am the night before the shower. It makes me happy that some things in life never change.

It seems that these kiddos were continually shocking me...

Pregnancy Insanity...

2011-03-20T21:11:00.000-07:00

I've read about it in books (most recently A Girlfriends Guide to Pregnancy). Any of you pregnant ladies or mommies ever hear the phrase, "Don't worry about it. You're pregnant."? Unfortunately, I've heard that more than once in the last few weeks. Whether it's been not recalling something that JUST happened, eating ANOTHER extra helping, or letting my emotions send me into tears 4 times in one day, I sometimes think I'm going a little crazy.

Pregnancy brings surprises...like every day. There's the sickness that randomly keeps popping back into my life, the beloved "pregnancy mask", other neat body changes in shape and function, or the seriously-never-gets-old "Chris! Feel it! He's moving again!" It's interesting, fun, tiring, hard, scary, and mostly awesome and exciting.

Every night a lay awake trying to figure out what to call our little man. It's just not coming to me....and probably just another thing that is making me pretty insane. So, if you have any suggestion, let me know!

The Debut

2011-03-03T12:06:00.000-08:00

This just might be an ultrasound overload....but, here HE is! (We decided to give the guy some privacy and not post his "little man" shots. The nurse sat there and waited for Chris and I to tell her what we thought it was...we both immediately knew but didn't want to be embarrassed if we were wrong. Finally she said, "...oh come on you guys! It's so obvious!")

Baby guy was kinda wiggly, but it was seriously awesome when she zoomed in on his face and we could see him gulping down his breakfast(amniotic fluid...yummy!) I'm so grateful today to hear that things seem to be growing/progressing at a normal rate. Good job baby!

head profile

Spooky face shot

piggies

body profile....look at those bones!

Visitors

2011-02-28T17:18:00.000-08:00

Mom and Angie flew to Colorado last week and they took care of me. I now have some great new home decor, a maternity wardrobe, and we made some fun meals together.

Mom was cracking me up! In these photos, she is matching a microscopic carpet sample from my living room to some pillows. The sample really helped coordinate things. ha ha.

We could never capture all our lovely smiles at the same time, but we had a good time.

Bye-bye family! Chris and I definitely appreciated the visit.

Caesar

2011-02-17T21:19:00.000-08:00

...also affectionately referred to as Caesar Max Augustus Rufus Nelson or Caesar Max a Million had to be "put down" this afternoon at the age of 14. The 2 of us had a rocky relationship at times. Billie (my mom) would say that since all my siblings had moved out of the house, I had to fight with someone. (Wait, did I really just admit that??)

Ceezy Beezy as a new Christmas puppy

And the old Beezer this last Spring

Caesar was most frequently seen riding on Billie's lap while she ran errands, snoozing by the fireplace with fellow pets Chloe and Alfie, or giving high pitch barks through the back fence...usually at nothing.

Rest in peace Caesar Guy.

"I Love My Hubby!"

2011-02-15T16:59:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, we celebrated our 4th Valentine's Day together. What?! 4 years?!! Yep, and that is 4 years in a row that we have enjoyed a little Korean BBQ on that special day. I looked so awkward eating my food, apparently, that before I could even ask for a fork, our nice Korean waiter presented one. Maybe even more awkward was the 12 year-old Korean girl wearing her "I Love My Hubby" t-shirt at the table next to us.

Topher enjoying some Kimchi

The spread.

Watch out! Preggo lady is makin' herself a wrap!!

I look at this picture and hear a deep voice in my head growling, "FEED ME!" I am forming a nice little pregnant pooch for this baby to grow in. I'm sure everyone wants to see pictures of that so...I'll do that another day. I have been feeling baby move for a week or so now. Honestly, I thought it would kind of freak me out a little bit, but it is so awesome!

Reconnecting

2011-01-20T23:16:00.000-08:00

It's the first night that we've had Internet in about a week. Glad to be connected again! Chris is snoozing away (thankfully, not snoring tonight) and I'm thinking about french fries. I almost think I can smell them, but I can't. That's probably a good thing. I've moved on from my obsession with beef to carbs. I blame everything I do on pregnancy. I feel very justified eating 6 meals a day, napping or sleeping in, skipping the gym(for the last month), and complaining that I don't feel well, I'm tired, or just irritable. I'm a real special version of myself lately. :) I'm REALLY trying to be more upbeat and just nice around Chris. Don't know what I'd do without him.

I also don't know what we would have done without his parents and two of his brothers this weekend. They visited. They helped us move in...and by "help" I mean that I had to work all day Saturday and while I was away, they moved pretty much EVERYTHING.

We've been organizing, planning, and budgeting for our plans for our home this week. It's been fun and tiring. We actually crawled into bed about 9:30 last night. Tonight, we reverted back to our late- night college days and met some friends for bowling (and tater-tots, yum!) at 9 P.M! We didn't get home till after 11:30! Whew! Real party animals.

I should never blog this late at night. I just ramble. So, I'll wrap things us with with a little "joke" I came up with that I delusionally thought was so funny the other night: What can a man give, but never receive?...Pregnancy!

Yeah, it's time to go to bed. Have a good night!

2010 & 2011

2011-01-06T07:32:00.000-08:00

Chris' dad gave us a list of family highlights of 2010 and what we all have to look forward to in 2011. I thought I'd make my own mini-lists.

2010

Nicole had just graduated from school in Dec. 2009...finally free from homework, projects, and uniform lesson plans!
Chris graduated with MBA
Nicole and Jayme formed a book club that met...all of one time. :) I still read LOADS of books!
We lost our first pregnancy in April
Chris landed an internship here in Denver in June
Internship became a job in October. We're now Colorado residents.
Camped this summer, A LOT.
Fun family vacations: Young Family Cruise, Nelson 4th of July shenanigans, Young Family Reunion at Bear Lake, etc.
I worked as a substitute teacher and now a salon receptionist

2011
This next year, our highlights/resolutions mainly revolve around 2 things:

1. We're getting into our first home in Parker, CO! I know that Chris looks forward to re-planting the front lawn in the Spring. We should close on the house next week.

2. Come July, we should be able to bring a baby back to our new home. I'm 12 weeks along. Just heard the heartbeat this week. So awesome! Last month, I was slightly obsessed with eating hamburgers and sometimes baby carrots and potatoes. I'm finally disgusted enough with that habit to start cooking again (although tonight I'm making stew that includes beef, carrots and potatoes...oh well, I'm working on it)...it also helps that I'm starting to feel better. So much to look forward to in 2011!

Baby Chris

Hooowwwll!

2010-12-16T08:16:00.000-08:00

When I was a wee Freshman at USU, I sat in the library studying with friends. A guy I had met a couple times, Eric Defries(little did I know that I would marry Eric's best friend a couple years later), was wondering around the library and stopped at our little group. He handed us a flyer. This little handout explained that in just a few minutes everyone was to start howling from 10:00-10:10 P.M....a stress reliever during finals week. So, we joined in on the howling. There were threats and curses over the intercom from an uptight librarian, but the howling continued for 10 minutes.

Well, in case you didn't know, this is an official USU tradition now. Every Wednesday of finals week from 10-10:10. Just HOWL! I'm proud to say that my husband was one of the founding fathers of this monumental event in USU history. A friend sent Chris a sound bite last night, proving that 5 years later, the tradition lives on.

On a totally different subject. I love my CTR 5 class. A member of our primary presidency is VERY strict. She waits for complete silence EVERY time she speaks. She was scolding the whole primary on Sunday, "...well, I guess I better just sit down. I sure do get tired of waiting for you guys to be quiet while I'm standing up here..." So sincere and sympathetic, Miles (boy in our class) empathizes, "I know exactly how you feel." His other comment after the chorister congratulated them on how great they were behaving, "We should get a treat!" Oh dear, maybe we've been bribing our class a little too much lately...

And that ends my random update for today.

Oh CHRISTMAS Tree!

2010-12-02T06:54:00.000-08:00

Christmas Tradition:

Take awesome photos in front of the tree the night we put it up (we've done it for 3 years running). I'll spare you the other five pictures we took last night as well.

So, here's to the beginning of a MERRY CHRISTMAS season!

sunbeam betty

2010-11-14T21:53:00.000-08:00

Miss Carly Farr Strebel's (niece) cover of "Jesus Wants Me for a Sunbeam". I fear I may have stifled her creativity by guiding her back to the original version of the song, but her intensity at the end made it completely worth it.
I CAN"T stop watching this adorable girl!

Girrrrrrls Trip!!!

2010-11-08T21:12:00.001-08:00

Woooo Hoooooo!!! Chele Bell really needed a vacation.

Mom and Chele

Britt and Hay...continue to be partners in crime

Michele, Angie, Mom, Barb, Brittany, Hayley, and myself

So You Think You Can Dance! The show started and for 2 straight hours, the 14-yr-old girl next to me screamed like she was gonna rip her shirt off. Come to think of it, she did! Okay, not really, but the show was amazing and the poor girl could hardly handle it.

Kent and Lauren--my favorite performers by far. I couldn't snap a good shot of them unfortunately.

Nailed and Cafe Trio next door for lunch= BA-MAZING!!!

The beautiful view from the Garden Restaurant

Sisterssss...cuuuute!! :)

Chris welcomed me home after the best 4 days of my life! ha ha

a bit of fall

2010-11-02T07:52:00.000-07:00

Should I be worried?? I will leave town for 4 days this week...Chris pulled out his white board to plan meals...

It continues to be a GORGEOUS Fall here in Denver. Love moving dinner out to the patio.

So, here we have the baked "Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake. Doesn't look beautiful, but on a plate with whipped cream, it was. Our place smelled like pun-kin all day long! Gotta love Fall baking.

Our table pre-food and pre-guests for a little Fall dinner party. I made a variety of soups and everybody else brought the rest. Easy and fun. :)

And, of course, the usual Christopher, strummin me some music.

Other happenings this Fall:

Spoke in sacrament meeting on Sunday. Glad it's over, but actually enjoyed preparing and talking
Becoming Colorado residents: drivers licenses, emission tests, car registration, etc.
A new job at church...CTR 5. We have eleven, very social kids that we may have to start bribing with candy to stop talking ALL THE TIME. Love teaming it up with Chris.
House hunting-- we're thinking of buying a house. We've seen A LOT of homes. Not "the one" yet, though. I can't wait to walk in a home and have that feeling of, "Yes, I like this very much. In fact, WE'LL TAKE IT!"
And as I've mention...GIRLS WEEKEND! Starts in just a few days. I can't wait to jump into my sisters arms and cry and wail with joy...just kidding. It might not be that dramatic of a reunion. It will be pretty sweet though.

I hope you're enjoying a wonderful Fall season as well!

ATTENTION all food CRUSHERS:

2010-10-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

In my experience of crushing food (graham crackers, candy canes, pretzels, etc.), I have used multiple methods: food chopper, meat mallet, measuring cup, and even my bare (usually clean) hands = tedious or ineffective. As I began to throw together a new recipe this week, it asked that I crush 38 ginger snaps! I might have teared up, when I remembered that I own a rolling pin. Five minutes later, my cookies were crumbled and the dessert was in the oven. Pretty unhealthy, but very yummy, minus that I discovered I don't like the ginger snap flavor/texture in my crust... I kinda can't believe I actually took a picture of my crushed cookies, but there you see them! :) And the recipe follows.

Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake
Makes 16 Servings

38 ginger snaps, finely crushed

1/4 c finely chopped pecans

1/4 cup butter, melted
4 pkg (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 c sugar
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin
1 Tbsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp. vanilla
4 eggs
1 cup thawed cool whip
1/2 tsp. ground nutmeg

HEAT oven to 325 degrees. MIX crumbs, nuts, and butter; press onto bottom and 1 inch up side of 9-inch springform pan. BEAT cream cheese and sugar with mixer until blended. Add pumpkin, spice, and vanilla; mix well. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing after each just until blended. POUR into crust. BAKE 1 hour 20 minutes or until center almost set. Loosen cake from rim of pan; cool before removing rim. Refrigerate 4 hours. Serve with a dollop of cool whip and a dusting of nutmeg.

Coming up...

2010-10-12T12:28:00.000-07:00

Above: Our last "Girls Trip" October 2008

I've been anticipating our family girls trip for, oh, a few months now! Only 3 1/2 weeks left till we all reunite for this long awaited vacation. Luckily, sister-in-law Barb doesn't live on the other side of the country anymore and will join in on the fun this time. I love my sisters. I love my mom. I can't wait!

Utah Weekend

2010-10-04T17:50:00.000-07:00

Doug (Dad), Bobby, Bob, and Chris at the Aggie/BYU football game Friday night

It was the 1st time USU beat BYU in 17 years! Amazing...miraculous! (Although, both teams are pretty bad this year from what I hear). Doesn't mean I'm any less proud of my Aggies! Score: 31-16!

Me, Hayley, Brittany, Isaac, and Nicholas.
Sweet Isaac put a smile on for the picture even though he was coming down with the flu at that very moment.

Chris and I saw almost all of our family this weekend. I'm not used to going 3 months between visits! Wowsers! I guess you could say I miss "home" sometimes while we're making Denver our new home.
We played hard with nieces and nephews and, of course, watched General Conference. A couple thoughts on Conference: First off, I noticed that the scripture "wickedness never was happiness" was quoted multiple times...I thought that was interesting and maybe telling of the world today. Second, Elder Bednar's talk about the Holy Ghost was one of many that struck me. He said all that we do is not just a "long gospel checklist", but invites the Holy Ghost. All these commandments we keep are to help us seek the Holy Ghost every day in our lives.

I loved our weekend in Utah! I also loved coming home to Colorado.

Loyal

2010-09-25T20:16:00.000-07:00

When Chris and I were newlyweds (I don't know when that phase really ends), I was driving in the suburban with my mother-in-law on our way to do some shopping. We were discussing the goods and maybe-not-so-goods of marriage and life. She probably doesn't remember saying, "Mark (my father-in-law) is an intensely loyal man. I think Chris is the same way." I'm so happy that she was right. It's not all that hard for people to forget what's important and forget their loyalties. I've just been thinking about that lately...

Some may know that Chris likes to write and sing songs on his guitar. As a slightly obsessed, very in-love wife, I often find myself recording him in his public concerts and while he's messing around in our apartment. He claims that his song-writing juices disappeared once he wasn't in a perpetual state of brokenheartedness (got married). I personally enjoy his happy, committed-husband songs of the past 2 years. So, here I am, posting one of my creepy wife recordings from our living room.

Good Fortune

2010-09-24T08:43:00.000-07:00

In true superstitious fashion, I placed Chris' Chinese fortune cookie fortune on my night-stand last week and hoped it would come true...

"Next month will be your most profitable month of the year."

...and it did! Chris finally got his official invitation to stay on board at TriZetto. His internship will end this month and he will be working product management starting October 1st! Now it's time to make Colorado our home. This feels kind of like a miracle. After the new CEO instilled a company-wide hiring freeze and lay-offs this summer, we were shaking in our boots. Amazingly, Chris' department got the go-ahead to keep him full-time.

To celebrate, we went out to a nice dinner and then hurried to Paradise Pens. Yep, my husband has a thing for fancy writing instruments. We determined not to leave the store without one. He actually chose the one I selected as my favorite, a marbly, brown Visconti fountain pen with gold trim. He's a happy man!

another camping/hiking trip!

2010-09-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

Lake Mills in Rocky Mountain National Forest

Contemplating a swim...

Chris' high-school-senior-picture shot

Opted out of swimming...chose the next best thing

Gorgeous! Sad for all of the terrible wildfires blazing through Colorado this summer,
but grateful for what has been contained and that we can enjoy much that is preserved.

"Music, Mice, and Madness"...and Hymns

2010-09-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

Our Relief Society chorister recently had a baby. I've been her substitute for a few weeks. This week I will give my first "music moment". I thought I would post it here, too.

As I thought about what I would share this week, I reflected mostly on how music affects our behavior and the way we think. I found the following story online about the psychology of music.

A student named David Merrill devised an experiment to discover how music would affect the ability of mice to learn new things. Merrill had one group of mice listen to classical music 24 hours a day and another to heavy metal music. He then timed the mice as they ran through mazes to see if the music affected their speed of learning. Unfortunately, he had to cut the first experiment short because the heavy metal mice all killed one another. In a second experiment, mice that listened to Mozart for 10 hours a day dramatically improved their maze-solving abilities, while the heavy metal mice actually became worse at solving mazes than they had been at the beginning of the experiment.

This is one experiment of many that tests the affects of music on behavior. It doesn't necessarily prove that heavy metal music leads to murder or violence, but that music likely does impact how we think and act.

Elder Jay E. Jensen spoke on the nourishing power of hymns in May 2007. He said, "Hymns play an essential role in spirituality, revelation, and conversion. His experiences with hymns growing up were similar to President Hinkley's. As a deacon, President Hinkley attended a stake priesthood meeting with his father. They sang "Praise to the Man". Later he would say, "I had an impression that has never left that Joseph Smith was indeed a prophet of God."

In January 2008 I remember having a similar experience. With friends, I toured the Rexburg, Idaho Temple before it's dedication. It was my first opportunity to see the majority of a temple's interior. The guide pointed out significant architecture and paintings in the various rooms. Just before we reached the Celestial room, he asked that we be completely silent and reverent while we walked through. We entered and the Spirit filled my heart and words to a hymn powerfully ran through my mind.

"Oh Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder
thy power thru-out the universe displayed;
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee
How great thou art!
How great thou art!"

I felt an intense closeness and love for my Heavenly Father and knew this was a place where he would reside and important work would be done.

President J. Reuben Clark Jr. said, "We get nearer to the Lord with music than perhaps through any other thing except prayer."

Our Relief Society lesson is titled "The Church of Jesus Christ Today". In relation to our topic, Elder Jensen said, "The hymns of the Restoration carry with them the spirit of conversion. They came as a result of sacrifice. They reinforce the great truths of the Restoration.--such as the divinity of the Father and the Son, the plan of redemption, revelation, latter-day scriptures, the gathering of Israel, the holy priesthood, and ordinances and covenants. These nourishing hymns create an atmosphere that invites the Spirit, which leads us to conversion."

I'm grateful for hymns that invite the Spirit, offering us revelation, and often converting us to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Hymns have the power to lead us away from temptation and can affect our behavior and thoughts in a positive way.

Hiking to Columbine

2010-09-02T09:39:00.000-07:00

Camp Chef Chris

We woke up early to a chilly morning. Chris got the fire started and prepared a delicious breakfast. The morning started to warm up (or the fire did) and we enjoyed the view below.

Below: Columbine Lake. Don't judge my capris that look like high-waters.
I can't ALWAYS look glamorous. ;)

Last weekend, we camped and hiked up to Columbine Lake. It was a BEAUTIFUL day! Chris enjoyed cooking on our new camping "stove" and I enjoyed eating it all. We laid on a rock by the lake at the peak of our hike for a while. It was absolutely peaceful. It reminded me of those last 5 minutes of a yoga class. The instructor turns out the lights. Everyone lays on their mats, closes their eyes, and then the teacher tells you to basically forget all your worries and go to that place...you know, it might be the beach, or an open field of white snow, or...in the woods by a peaceful lake. I'll definitely envision Lake Columbine at my next yoga class.

It has been a FAST and fun summer in Denver. We're kind of in what I like to call limbo... one decision made by one person (cough, CEO at Chris's work, cough) is what we're waiting for to make a whole lot of other choices. Luckily, we're having a lot of fun while we wait.

Foolish Excursion

2010-08-20T21:03:00.000-07:00

PHOTO: Cherry Creek Reservoir...we climbed the dam behind those lovely boats...

Tonight we avoided injury and death. We did not, however, avoid some fear and a little embarrassment. After dinner, I suggested we work out. Chris immediately proposed we ride our bikes around the nearby Cherry Creek Reservoir. I recalled our last walk through the area, filled with hoards of bugs and just as many bites. So, reluctantly, I accepted his proposal.

The first few miles were actually enjoyable…minus a few bugs who had found their death in our eyes and occasionally throats…the evening grew darker as we neared what we thought was the last stretch of our wide, paved trail. Then, the trail ended. We were probably less than a mile from circling the park back to our vehicle. Chris was certain he saw a continued path through a patch of trees. It was dirt, but it was true. We had to decide: (1) turn around and ride the MILES back the way we’d come or (2) walk our road bikes down this rough, hidden path in the dark. We chose the latter. Again, we had more altercations with the insects, seriously inhaling them in their thick swarms.

Here’s where the story gets interesting. After a quarter mile or so of walking our bikes in this lovely situation, the trail ends and the Cherry Creek Dam begins. We had to make another decision: (1) turn around, walk back, and then ride the MILES back the way we’d come or (2) carry our bikes up the rock-covered dam and ride to our car via the Cherry Creek Dam Road. Here, we chose the latter as well. We worked up a nice sweat climbing to the top, but my heart raced a little as we had to place ourselves on this narrow road in the dark as cars passed at 50 mph. One of those situations that you drive by and say out loud, “Who are those idiots riding on THIS road at THIS time of night?!” We luckily had our bike lights flashing as a warning to oncoming traffic. The flashing encouraged some flashing and honks from passers-by. (that was the embarrassing part that actually made me happy my face was hidden in the dark). We eventually crossed the dam. My body ached from the tenseness of the ride. Now, glad to be safely home, eating popcorn and watching a lovely show about a serial killer and his daughter.

Someday, somebody's gonna ask you...

2010-08-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

The Anniversary is coming up. Two years later, we are still making out in abandoned sheds just like this. I ruined our first anniversary by forgetting to get work off...oops! Not this year. "No, no, no, no! No way Jose!" This year, Chris has arranged a romantic getaway in the mountains (just like he did last year, but had to cancel, dang it). We'll stay in a cozy hotel and spend our Saturday hiking and basking in our love for each other.

Below, you'll hear Rhett Miller singing "Question". This would be a great song for a wedding video, kinda wish I'd known about it 2 years ago... I'm very happy that Chris asked me that question that I was able to say "YES!" to. At the time, I was still so nervous about the getting married thing, but I'm sure glad that Heavenly Father lead me to him, and that I was smart enough (barely) to see the signs and know that I could not live without this amazing man. How did I ever doubt myself? After our first date, I sprinted up my apartment stairs, threw myself on the floor, and kicked my legs and screamed! I'm not kidding, I did it all in front of Britnee Searle, poor girl. What can I say? I'm in love.

(I don't think Rhett has an official video for this song, so enjoy somebody's incredibly cheesy interpretation of the lyrics).

Forever Young

2010-07-23T07:41:00.000-07:00

Being squishy and cute and young

I have a situation. I'm not sure that it's a problem...but it can get a little overwhelming at times. I look YOUNG. Last week was my first week at the salon (it's been great so far). In that time, I received 6 comments such as the following:

Do you go to Arapahoe (local high school)?

You graduated from college?? You look Young!

How old are you? Oh, I would have said you're younger...

When I was a sophomore in high school (7 years ago!), my mentor and cheer adviser gave me some hope. "Once your face thins out and you grow some boobs, he'll come to his senses." (referring to my senior crush). Well Stero, I'm waiting! Should I just give it more time?

The situation grew infinitely when I changed my last name 2 years ago. EVERY SINGLE DAY that I subbed in a new classroom these past few months, this joke didn't get old..."Your name will be easy to remember. You're Mrs. Young and you look young!" Usually followed by about 30 contorted, laughing faces.

I don't really know why I'm blogging about this. Maybe now, YOU'LL never forget my last name. My boss did give me a real stylin' hair cut and color yesterday (for free, might I add). Maybe it will make me look a little less YOUNG.

"Salon Influence, this is Nicole..."

2010-07-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

I'm the new girl. Just hooked me a job as a salon receptionist. I guess I know how to answer a phone because after 2 hours of doing that in an "interview" this morning, they offered me the position. Yipee!

We're there!

2010-06-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

I miss these cuties (Britt's kiddos)...I think I came to love them a little too much while we lived near them the past 4 years.

...but we have 3 weeks under our belts in Denver. We've enjoyed ourselves...

Made some new friends. One of which (Janet) happens to be an amazing cook! She and her hubby had us over for the best Korean food I've ever devoured! I made flan and macaroons for dessert...we ate it all even though Chris dropped the macaroons on the drive way. Oops! No one would have known until we were all chewing on the gravel bits. JK! He did drop them, but they were still clean and we warned the Murphy's...
I put the wrong soap in the dishwasher, soap suds everywhere! It reminded me of that Brady Bunch episode where they're basically swimming in the laundry room. Maybe not that bad. (I've hardly used a dishwasher in 4 years. Try not to judge me).
Met up with an old friend, Crystal Waid. Haven't seen her in maybe 5 years. Wow it was so great to catch up. Kind of like fate that we ended up 30 minutes from each other all these years later.
Attended an amazing Young Family Reunion back in Utah. I wanted to kiss the ground when we arrived at the SLC airport. I guess I love Utah, everything that is so familiar to me there. We are very happy in Denver, too, though.
Chris is enjoying his new job...bustin out some research, reporting to his bosses, sounds like a party! :) He really does like it.
I've been job hunting diligently...had an interview and some call-backs, nothing fruitful yet. So....I have enjoyed our workout facility, laying by the pool, reading, new recipes, and potting flowers today.
We attended the Denver Temple last night. That always makes life better.
Tonight, we'll hit up a Rockies game with friends from Trizetto!
One last thing, we have 2 STINKING AWESOME malls! Come visit if you like a rockin shopping experience.

Steve and Jayme (Chris' bro and wife) are seriously awesome! They drove all the way to Denver with us to help us move in....that is true family dedication right there, especially since we were driving 60 in a 75 with our uhaul! Jayme rode the first day (8 hours) with me. Steve was worried that we wouldn't have enough to talk about. No problems there. :)

Family Reunion
I'm not gonna list all the fun things we did at Bear Lake, but it was a blast! The power did go out one night. Good thing Uncle Dave brought those glow sticks for night games!

Judy set up this family service project. We assembled 100 hygene kits for a hospital in need. We also completed a couple quilts to be given away.

.Porter.
Somehow, this kid fell in love with me over the weekend. He is Chris' cousin's son. He followed me EVERYWHERE. Good thing he was so cute. I was serenaded through the bathroom door, "...take me somewhere we can be alone.." He acknowledged that I might be very sad to leave him after this weekend. He said I could look at his picture when that happens. Yes, as I look as this picture, I feel much better.

Corky!

2010-06-02T17:14:00.000-07:00

Just had one of those adolescent FREAK OUT moments. I've spent 2 days de-junking my mom's closets at home. It's taken longer than expected because, of course, I started in my room and moved on to my sisters' rooms. I get way too much pleasure out of sorting/discarding/organizing, and looking at old pictures, letters, journals, and keepsakes.

I had forgotten about one special memory. CHUCKY. One sibling of mine was lucky enough to be given a cute, red-haired, talking doll in their youth. His actual name is Corky, but he looks like Chucky's (the famous horror-movie doll) curly-haired twin brother! This childhood toy has left me screaming, running, and crying on more than one occasion.

As I made my way to the top of Hayley and Brittanys' closet, I noticed a plastic arm protruding from underneath the storage of old clothes...I instantly recalled that red and yellow striped shirt. I calmly jumped down, walked out of the room and closed the door behind me. Yeah...I'm not gonna finish cleaning the room till someone is at least home to rescue me from the clutches of that 2 foot, chubby-cheaked, smiling creature.

**Notice: After rummaging through the possessions of Angie, Michele, Brittany, and Hayley, I have endless amounts of dirt and/or blackmail. Let me know if you are in need. I take cash.

Movin On!

2010-05-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago, Chris and I packed up and rolled into Vegas for a few days of play time. Just a couple days into the trip, Chris received a phone call, a job offer from one of his top choices. I wish I had pictures. He kept pacing into the room giving me a thumbs up. We had to put our decision on hold for a few days while Chris continued to interview with a few other companies.

We didn't wait for responses from those last interviews. We are excited and feel great about our decision to move to. . .
DENVER, COLORADO!
He will be working with TriZetto doing something along the lines of market research and maybe finance. My mom continues to remind us that this is 'temporary'...it might be. (if you don't know, I'm the youngest child. It is rumored that I am the favorite. Really, Billie, my mom, would prefer all of her 6 children to move back to good old Idaho Falls.) He will start as an intern with the possibility of staying on in Denver, or maybe relocating even back to Utah or somewhere and traveling often. That option will be something to worry about later. Now, we are looking forward to uprooting and moving on. I keep pacing through our little apartment wondering where to start packing...then I remember we still have 3 weeks here and no boxes yet. Needless to say, we're antsy to start our adventure.

On another note...

Pictured above: my sister Hayley. Running this Spring really has worked wonders for her. Doesn't she look great?!

MBA Grad Banquet

2010-04-29T20:46:00.000-07:00

This is Chris and me at his grad banquet. He will be graduating from USU's Jon M. Huntsman School of Business with his MBA next week.

I called Adam Chris' boyfriend this semester. Adam spent more time with Chris than I did. They both were presented awards tonight.
Adam: "Overcoming Adversity" Okay, so Adam not only had his tonsils out this semester while continuing to work full-time and going to school full-time...THEN, he suffered a major head injury in a car accident not long after. What a serious trooper. He will have reconstructive surgery on his crushed skull soon after graduation.
Chris: "Distinguished Student" Right now I just feel like ranting about how grateful I am for my husband. I admire and love him. My evenings with him this semester were diminished as he threw himself into his school work. I know getting his MBA was exactly the right choice this year. He spent LATE nights with his peers in the program (mostly Adam, I think), and while he was busy and maybe sometimes stressed, I know he has loved it. He is so passionate about what he does and works so hard at it! He has worked on his degree while working at Enterprise, as well as doing a research assistantship, and taking care of me whenever he can. In every project and with every group, I know he put forth 110% (I say "I know" because I was a lone wife to prove it).

Aggie Alum, Elder L. Tom Perry of the Quorum of the 12 Apostles of the LDS church, addressed the MBA students and faculty. He has lived through nearly 9 decades and gave some great history of his generation and advice to ours.

Friends and Elder Perry

Some of Chris' friends in the program

Next stop, CAREER!

Tonsils! :(

2010-04-24T23:23:00.000-07:00

I know, I'm 22. I should stop taking pictures like this. Sawyer is fun though!
Check my camera. This is one of at least 10 photos that Saw asked me to shoot of him. What a good looking, fun, and incredibly strong boy! I couldn't peel this monkey off of me at times.

Is it evident that I missed Chris...just a bit??

This is about the only picture I could get of Drew. I guess the kid doesn't like photos when he's sick. Chele is such a GREAT mom! I think she needs a nap in this picture.

The girls.

Michele's littlest guy, Drew, is a mere 2 years old. The poor boy had to go under the knife last week to remove his problem-causing tonsils/adnoids. While this was an unfortunate event, Mom and I were able to fly in for a visit. I enjoyed coloring books, Monopoly, and playing ball (mostly with Sawyer and finally with Drew whenever his meds would kick in...Brielle is pretty much popular and always had a play date. I was fighting for her attention). Mom was able to vacuum up a storm, clean the hampster cage, and make her masterful chicken pot pie with a flaky crust baked to perfection.

Gosh, I hope this trip was somewhat helpful for the sleep-deprived mother. I think she took one nap while we were there, but Michele we loved being with you guys and hope Drew boy continues to recover well and fattens back up. His furrowed brow and then angelic, nice-boy voice were worth the flight for me!

s'mores ( gettin dirty in Logan Canyon)

2010-04-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

If you're wondering where Carly is...look for the chocolate!

The fellas- Chris and Bobby

NOSE IN A BOOK AND DE-CLUTTERATION

2010-04-15T18:05:00.000-07:00

This post will be rather exciting if you are looking for some good book recommendations. Maybe I'm kind of bragging about all the books I have had the time to read these last 3 or 4 months since I finished my scholarly pursuits....regardless, I have LOVED pretty much all of these books for very different reasons. The list follows:

1. The Continuous Atonement
2. P.P. Pratt Autobiography
3. Persuasion
4. Chasing Fireflies
5. Motzarts' Sister
6. Three Cups of Tea
7. The Glass Castle
8. Gathering Blue
9. Messenger
10. A Summer to Die
11. The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society
12. the curious incident of the dog in the night-time
13. Eat, Pray, Love
14. East of Eden (actually listened to this on tape with Chris over Christmas break...it took 25 hours to finish...great for our many long drives and a couple cozy evenings)

Now, I would love to give you a run-down of each book and why you should read, but really, nearly all of these happened upon me by chance or recommendation. I jumped into them, usually, without looking back. So, if a title sparks your interest, go for it! It has rarely let me down to do so.

Next...Cleaning House!
Something else changed my life just a bit last week.I attended a Relief Society Activity (isn't that what we're supposed to call enrichment now?) that I was so luckily invited to by my sister Angie in her ward. Keep your pants on! I know this is sounding exciting already!! We enjoyed a seminar of sorts on de-cluttering our homes and lives. The ideas from the evening can be found at www.declutteryourhomes.blogspot.com

Folks, I came home and tore it up! I ravaged closets, cabinets, STACKS of books (which we have begun to sell some and make a nice little profit, yay!), and devoured our "cat room" (supposed to be spare room, but it is covered in orange shag and reminds me of a cat toy), and while Chris hated me for a couple hours, I even got him involved and helped him decrease his storage of 4 boxes down to 2 more orderly boxes.
That's all for now. Have a good day!

un-stewing

2010-04-06T09:09:00.000-07:00

I've reminded myself of some of my new years goals and I can't wait to really jump into them. So, if you read my "stewing" post, all is well and maybe I shall soon post about some of the fun things I'm working on.

Also, I'm very grateful for Chris today. This is my boy playing frisbee after his brother's wedding.

Neil Diamond

2010-03-23T19:28:00.000-07:00

This is Mr. Young. Mrs. Young is threatening me with cold hands to publish the video footage of the Neil Diamond Ball, at which I performed three Neil Diamond Favorites.

Sweet Caroline with Eriq Jenkins and Marlin Jenkins on the keyboard and drums, respectively.

America with Eriq Jenkins on the bass

Stewing...

2010-03-11T19:44:00.000-08:00

First on my list of rantings this evening: I am incredibly BORED! I hate to say it. In fact I hate to hear about how busy people are because I think, "What the crap am I not doing that I should or want to be doing?!" My life consists of "teaching" during the day and the normal things like reading great books, studying scriptures, trying new recipes, fitting in the gym now and again, visiting teaching, watching shows on hulu (no cable right now, slightly killing me)....I won't continue with this list because if you are reading, you've already lost interest.

Chris is on the complete opposite side of the spectrum right now. He is BUSY! Work, projects, homework, classes, searching for a career, etc. I've never seen him study so diligently(by the way, highschoolers think the word diligent is hilarious. Really, try using it in a school setting when trying to get them to work. It always gets a good reaction when I use it. I'll talk more about that later though). It's great.

Being a student always gave me something to work towards...a lot of work usually. I dreamed of the day I would have the time to read all the novels my sisters and friends raved about. That time is here, now I'm dreaming about meaningful goals that I don't have. Things I should be doing to help other people or contribute to society somehow...but....what exactly should I be doing? I can't really pursue my career at this point in time, not knowing where we will be after the month of June.
Really if any of you readers out in the blogging world have any suggestions on a way to pursue something meaningful, please let me in on your secret. I need to find something or someone to have to be accountable for or to. It is easy for me to set a goal and not complete it if I'm accounting to no one.

I really hope those last few paragraphs don't look like a pity party or anything. I'm very happy, just not content with the few persuits I have right now.

Now, here is some background for my next bit of ramblings:

I've spent the week with 14-16 year olds in various science and english classes in the valley. By 7th hour this afternoon, I'd had it. The day began like this just before school when a boy came in early:

Boy:What are we doing today?
Me: We've got the chapter 16 review to work on to help you get ready for the test tomor...
Boy (interupting me mid sentence): Yeah, yeah, yeah...and walks out the door
Me: Respond with a sarcastic, "yeah, yeah, yeah" to let him know I noticed the bratty tone, but really thinking, YOU BUTTHEAD! That was so rude to interupt me like that!

Let me tell you, that was a mild interaction compared to the rest of the day. I delt with long boards, bouncy balls, VERY POWERFUL magnets, and flat out rude and disrespectful behavior. I was referred to as a "bitch" (sorry if people are offended) when I had only asked the class to find their seats so I could tell them what we were doing for the day. A lot of boys these days are supporting breast cancer awareness these days. Did you know? Yes, many of the 14 year-old boys I saw were wearing wristbands stating "I love boobies!" However, after I caught these same boys trying to sneak pictures of girls butts on their camera phones, I somehow became convinced they weren't so concerned about cancer. When I read this paragraph, some of these things actually seem quite humorous....they don't always seem that way in the moment.

All of these lovely interactions and more really left me thinking. First, I wished I had the time to stick around with them and stand on my soap box explaining, "I don't feel bad for you! So many of you are completely RUDE, beyond rude, horrible! You all are complaining that your life is so hard. You had to take notes all last hour?! Now, a chapter review??!! Life is tough." I would tell them about the book I just read, Three Cups of Tea, where I learned about the thousands of students in Pakistan living in poverty. They gather on windy, sometimes frozen plains to learn outside in the elements. No school supplies, sometimes no consistent teacher. Just their fingers in the dirt to practice multiplications facts or any bit of knowledge they can get their hands on! They thirst for knowledge. Somehow, here in America, so many students seem to resent it.

Alright, so you know that I do have a heart after all this, I think I get so heated up because I do care that these kids suceed. I do realize that some of these kids really do have difficult lives. Some are probably dealing with things beyond my experience: abuse, abandonment, learning disabilities, language barriers. I also do realize, that there may just be a maturity issue at this point. But, I have to wonder what is going through the heads of some of these kids that are so blatantly rude and vulgar even toward teachers.

As I taught my visiting teaching lesson tonight, I couldn't help but think of these kids as we talked about the topic of strengthening our faith through scripture study. Pres. Monson is quoted in the lesson saying,

"A study of the scriptures will help our testimonies and the testimonies of our family members. Our children today are growing up surrounded by voices urging them to abandon that which is right and to pursue, instead, the pleasures of the world. Unless they have a firm foundation in the gospel of Jesus Christ, a testimony of the truth, and a determination to live righteously, they are susceptible to these influences. It is our responsibility to fortify and protect them."

So, it may just be that some kids haven't been given the opportunity in life that Pres. Monson talks about, maybe their parents haven't had it either. Maybe none of them want it. How it would bless them. How it would improve their quality of life. I did rant about these "horrible" kids, but even after a rough day like today, I love them. I hope they are able to figure out the important and meaningful things in life that will bring them true joy.

In a typing mood.

2010-02-24T20:01:00.000-08:00

I spend my days as a substitute teacher. I wouldn't necessarily call it rewarding in the teaching sense on the average day. High school, usually consists of watching movies over and over again, and watching kids secretly playing on phones and ipods...till they realize I know what's going on and I don't care and just pull them out. It's also funny to see how much kids try to get away with and try to be sneaky even when it doesn't matter.

A conversation with a sophomore in high school.
Girl: Can I go to my locker?
Me: What do you need?
Girl: uh... a comb...I need to comb my hair...
Me: chuckling ....just hurry.
Girl comes back 5 minutes later.
Me: Where's your comb?
Girl: Couldn't find it.

Junior High Resource Class
Students are supposed to be quietly working on assignments while I'm at the computer inputting attendance. I stand up, finished with the task, to find a beauty parlor....hair straighteners, make-up, hair spray, mirrors out, the works. A few girls had to make "touch ups". Very important in the 7th grade.

This week, however, has been very fulfilling. After some less than fun past experiences, I swore I would never sub for first graders again. Unfortunately, I had already consented to a 3-day job in Mendon this week for the very grade. Two days are down, one to go and....I LOVE these kids. They are sweet, helpful, OBEDIENT!! and just cute. Day one, they sat on the rug in front of me. I kid you not, 23 SMILING facing sang patriotic songs at the tops of their lungs (yes, I teared up and had to look away). I keep getting secret sticky notes in lovely first grade penmanship that say " I love you Mrs. Young!" or "You are doing great!" ha ha. I have loved that I also get to actually teach these kids: math, reading, songs, writing, sharing stories and brainstorming...ahh...it feels good to use my degree for a few days (and lay off the national geographic movies...I've seen too many animals mate and give birth for at least a month).

I guess it is possible that I will remove my ban from first graders. And as much as I am sick of watching movies over and over...it is a wonderfully relaxing way to spend my Fridays (I almost always try to get high school jobs for Fridays for that very reason). My job is not all that glamorous, but I believe I am content.

I love America Every Day!

2010-02-11T21:59:00.001-08:00

My sweet nephew Nicholas performed some fantastic songs with his kindergarten class at Barnes and Noble last weekend. They had props and dancing....the whole shebang! :)
I think I have a problem though. This performance left me a little teary eyed....just like standing ovations, primary programs, Extreme Makeover:Home Edition, testimony meetings, and really most anything cute or sad that kids do... wish I could control my tear ducts a little better!
Anyhow, Nicholas is the hottie in the 2nd row, black and blue striped shirt.

Don't go changin...to try and please me...

2010-02-02T18:48:00.000-08:00

Two days before my graduation in December, a young, gentleman hairdresser destroyed my hair. After SIX hours in his salon, I got the hair color you see in the first picture below. You may be thinking, "Big woop! It's not that bad!" or "Yes, that is pretty nasty." But you should have seen the nasty strawberry-orange shade it was before he "fixed" it. It was that night that I used some curse words that I had never used before.
Anyhow, I had a lovely afternoon at Salon K with Harmony today. I love the color she gave me and I think I'll enjoy the change. I have been to 7 hair dressers in 4 years. I think I finally found one that might just fit my personality and hair-desires. It's nothing fancy, but it is not ORANGE and I am happy!

At USU game with Chris on Saturday (Aggies won of course! )

A new do.

On the road again...

2010-01-22T16:04:00.000-08:00

Me- catching my breath...lying to Chris that I thought we should stop for pictures

After the ride, we threw on our swim suits and built this!

I feel that I can confidently say that no one looks and my blog (excluding the 2 people that said they ever had). Therefore, I don't feel bad about pretty much never posting, but today I am feeling like an update. Actually, I'm feeling like a long bike ride around Bear Lake on a warm Summer day. Chris and I went on a pretty good number of rides this summer and it was fabulous. I love that we have the new year and that that means I can look forward to another season of riding my bike in the sun in just a few months.
On this particular ride, I don't think we planned to ride so long...no sunscreen...horrible sunburns! But it was so beautiful...Chris would get ahead and then have to sit and wait for me. I hope to do better next biking season.

Party in the U.S.A!

2009-12-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Mark and Judy were nice enough to treat the Young family to a trip to Newport Beach, CA. What a great kick off to AMAZING family vacations together. We made our mark at Disney Land, met some of Mark's incredible co-workers(no pics of that unfortunately), floated the coast on John Wayne's yacht for Thanksgiving dinner, and I enjoyed early mornings watching the sunrise over the ocean. I'm so grateful for wonderful memories with family!

Meeting Baby Sydney!

2009-11-24T15:35:00.000-08:00

More...CAMPING!!!

2009-06-27T07:57:00.000-07:00

This week Chris and I spent a couple of nights in Green Canyon doing Dutch oven with friends and riding bikes. It's nice that we can camp for free and it only takes 10 minutes to get there! :) I'm loving this fun time with my man.

Random update...

2009-03-22T20:11:00.000-07:00

Blogging. I rarely post anything on this blog and I think like 3 people have ever looked at it haha. But I thought I'd just put some pictures up for fun...maybe I will make this blog cute someday. :)

The above pics are from a weekend trip Chris and I took in January to Palm Desert, California. It was awesome but too short! We hiked, swam, explored fancy hotels, and enjoyed the sun.

Honeymoon pictures

2008-10-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

Pictures from August 2008, our honeymooning adventures in Victoria BC and Washington!

Idaho Community Foundation

2008-10-30T20:07:00.000-07:00

Angie, Hayley, and I were able to help my parents host a dinner in our backyard this summer for the Idaho Community Foundation. Dougles has been pres. of the foundation for a bit. They have raised money to help many students get a higher education in the state, among other things... it was a grand time listening to the live band during dinner, serving ice cream, and helping out with a remote control car race. :)

Mom and Dad, the handsome hosts!

Camping Time!

2008-10-26T21:09:00.000-07:00