. . . . chelsey & jared . . . .

{ We did something CRAZY }

2012-01-17T20:19:00.009-05:00

This story begins back in December when we babysat this little puppy, Oscar, before Katie gave him to Adam for Christmas. We had so much fun with the little thing that after he was gone we started to feel some major puppy hunger.

So innocently we browsed some classifieds for puppies just to SEE what was out there. Nobody just looks at puppies though...
One day I had sent Jared a link to an ad of a cute little maltipoo. (Jared refuses to call it that... it is a mix of a maltese and a poodle.) When Jared got home at 7 I hadn't so much as spoken to the owners of the dog, but by 8:00 I had a puppy on my lap! It all happened so fast. I felt rushed. I was excited/nervous/regretful/in shock- pretty much just an array of emotions. (If I called you frantically in the moment you know I was being a crazy person!)
So we brought home this little girl.

We named her Pippa. She was so worked up the first night and I wasn't a fan of that. She diarrhea-ed on my kitchen floor and I really didn't like that. She cried in the night. I wasn't sure I could deal with that. Jared and I layed in bed that night and confessed to each other that we were afraid we didn't love her. :) We thought it was a bad sign that we loved Oscar more.

So the next day before Jared left for work he told me to make the ad. (He claims that he just meant make it in case, he wasn't thinking I'd actually post it!) He helped me take a few pictures before he left for work and by lunch time the ad was posted!

In those short hours I had her, I realized I had a very NEEDY puppy on my hands. She literally cried if I wouldn't hold her when I was going to the bathroom. When I got in the tub, even though she was right next to it and I was even petting her, she about had a heart attack. She was always right there wanting me to hold her. It was so silly.

( I don't let her get on my white rug, but she LOVES it

So before we sold her we let her nuzzle into it! She was so HAPPY)

Well within hours of posting the ad I had TONS of people wanting her! Again I didn't even really have time to think about it. Before I knew it Jared and I were on our way to meet her new owner with her crate etc. in our hands. Of course the girl wanted her. Who holds a puppy and doesn't buy it?

The story doesn't end there... Our 24 hour dog turned into our permanent (or permanent for now) dog.

The next day I woke up kind of sad that she was gone. I was regretting that I didn't give it more time. It was this little puppy's first day away from her mom and sisters so I should have given her some slack. When I came home from the gym to an empty house I was really sad. I was thinking a crazy, needy dog is better than an empty apartment all the time. So after talking to my sister, she said I could just text the girl to see how it went. I was sad when she responded that it went well. BUT....
a few hours later she texted me to tell me that she was worried because she works 6 12 hour shifts every other week. We texted back and forth a little more, with me trying not to steal the puppy back but desperately wanting her.

I went that night and got our puppy back!

Ashley LOVES puppies! -Especially ones that love to snuggle-

We love her so much now! We still have to work out some issues with her. She is slightly psychotic. :) Anyone that is pro at training dogs I'd love your advice!

I know we are crazy! Who gets a puppy when they are pretty much 6 months pregnant?!?

My belly has popped & I couldn't be more in love...

Pippa already looks so much bigger and cuter to us after just about a week.

2011-12-31T15:08:00.002-05:00

"I wouldn't want to be married to someone smarter than me, or even as smart as me. But I wouldn't want to be married to someone as dumb as a pile of rocks either."

The Husband.

Glad to know he loves me because not only am I not as smart as him (so he thinks), but I am indeed smarter than a pile of rocks. :)

This made me laugh a lot.

Christmas cookies

2011-12-29T13:32:00.001-05:00

Wow. I tried telling Jared that just because they were on sale we didn't need 7 boxes of cookies. He disagreed.

{ thanksgiving }

2011-12-20T13:39:00.004-05:00

We drove down to San Antonio for Thanksgiving! It was lots of fun! We enjoyed lots of yummy food, games, and shopping. What more could you ask for? Heather is the best host. I just love her.

I made these candy turkeys with the girls. Jared was giving me a hard time that I was taking over the project. :) They were just a little harder to make than I thought. Peyton definitely helped me eat the candy though.

We also made these turkey cups. This was a little more their element.

Black Friday shopping was exciting for us this year! We have been wanting and waiting to make a few purchases in anticipation of this night! We scoped out the ads and Jared headed out to Target at about 6:00 to wait in line. It was so exciting. They only let 30 people in at a time and we were in the first 30! I was the first one to the camera counter, which was pretty thrilling. Jared says he could definitely see himself doing this every year.

This was our best trophy! There were only 7 left when they put this one in Jared's cart. It definitely felt like victory!

{ Halloween }

2011-12-20T13:22:00.004-05:00

I LOVE that Heather and her cute family live just 3 hours away. I only wish it was closer, like next door closer; oh and that my whole family was there. Is that too much to ask? We were able to go to her home and celebrate Halloween and Thanksgiving. I just love being with her and her cuties! We had fun!

Is he not the cutest? He was not happy that we were mean enough to put him in that pumpkin.

Hallie was a puppy this year. That costume has been in the family a LONG time. Dustin wore that when he was little and so did I. Peyton wanted to be something scary.

Our pumpkins.
Jared is so great to clean out our pumpkin every year. Sharing is awesome. :)

{ am i the only one? }

2011-12-13T12:12:00.002-05:00

I noticed I did this the other day.

When I'm in someone else's house that is immaculate I literally tell myself that their drawers and cupboards are stuffed full of crap. :)

This may or may not make me a bad person.

Hopefully it just means I'm a slob.

{ Trip Highlights }

2011-12-02T12:31:00.005-05:00

We were able to go to Rome and on a cruise in October with the Meier's. It was such an amazing experience! I still can't believe I was actually in these places. I'm so grateful for a beautiful world full of diverse people and places. It's simply incredible.

Here are just a few sample photos from the trip.

{ Camel Ride in Cairo }

{St. Paul's Basilica}

{ The Garden of Gethsemane}

{ Jerusalem }

{ The Vatican }

{ The Colosseum }

{ The Pantheon }

{ The Sea of Galilee }

{Pyramids at Giza}

{Turkey}

We feel so lucky to have been able to go to all these places!

{ Dear Neighbor }

2011-11-28T18:08:00.003-05:00

Dear Neighbor,

Please do us both a favor and quit smoking. I can smell you.

It gives me a headache and makes me want to vomit.

Thanks,

Your neighbor with a pregnant nose.

{ so much to be grateful for }

2011-11-20T22:22:00.009-05:00

I feel like these last few months have been so full of sweet tender mercies, miracles, and grand blessings that we are not deserving of, but so very grateful for!

I am {grateful} that:

We could live in Utah for 3 1/2 months! I loved being home! I was so spoiled. I love every person in my family so much! It felt like a non-stop party!

Jared and I celebrated 3 years of marriage in Vegas!

We could go to Park City and stay in a condo with my family. I love being together!

Our friends from Chicago came out to Utah for a visit.

I could spend some holidays with my family.

Heather and her cute family could come party with us for a month in Utah!

We could go on an amazing trip with the Meier's!

That I was able to find the most amazing doctor in Utah! (Dr. Hatasaka at Reproductive Care Center just fyi) I was able to have my left fallopian tube removed. His office was so wonderful to us!

I had this good man by my side through it all! Even though the last year and half of fighting infertility was one of the most difficult and emotional ones for me, it is also a time that will always be precious to me. Our marriage and relationship is forever changed.

The surgery + prayers + fasting + blessings
+? +? +? = positive pregnancy test! I was and still am in shock and so overwhelmed with gratitude.

I'm now 4 months pregnant and the worst of the sick part is over! Yay! Thanks to everyone who has prayed for us and supported us! We love you!

Jared wanted a picture of him in the same pose. ;)

{ jared's occupation dabbling }

2011-09-09T18:33:00.006-04:00

Jared will start work as an attorney on November 14th, but as we wait he seems to be trying out a few other occupations. (Let's just say I'm grateful we will be sticking with attorney)

Job #1- Babysitter.
He has been SO good to my nieces and nephews while we've been living in Utah. One day when I got home this is what I saw in the middle of the street.
At first I was thinking who in the world is that... then as I got closer I realized they belonged to me.
The one time we left a couple of kids with him by himself Peyton came out as they were doing fireworks pulled down her panties and said "Look what I did" revealing some poop. He was pretty great to clean it all up.

Job #2- Entrepreneur
This began his last quarter of law school. The entire way to Utah I got to listen to awesome business idea after awesome business idea. Don't worry I talked him out of golf courses in the middle of nowhere for truckers. I assured him the market for truckdrivers has already been covered. But the brainstorming for his BIG IDEA still continues... maybe one day it will pay off?

Job #3- Doctor
Jared hurt his wrist at the beginning of the summer. I think it had to do with the 6 days in a row of golf with his dad. I try not to laugh at his self medicating. He has seen a doctor for it and they did not tell him anything about wrapping it or using a brace. But he knows best and is very particular about which brace he wears in the day, and when to wrap it at night. I'm not sure how long this will go on. When I ask if it feels any better he says he doesn't know. And he's going to job-shadow his brother at the hospital.

Job #4- Hairstylist
Jared wanted to color my hair for me. I figure it's a good investment to have him learn. So he did it! The whole time he kept saying, "how much is this going to cost to fix?" He actually did a good job, besides pulling my hair!

Job #5- Car Mechanic
Jared thought he would do some maintanence on the car. We had just had it serviced at the dealer and they didn't even mention the engine filter needing changed, but Jared came home got on google and decided he'd watch a little video and change it anyways. Well now the car is hissing... Not normal. He is pretty persistent that he didn't break it and that he can fix the new problem. Am I a bad wife for wanting him to stay away from the engine? Yikes! I'm glad he saved us $40 though, because they want to charge $100just to see where the leak is in the vacuum. I love him and think he's funny even if he broke the car.

Oh and the best part is he told the dealer that "his friend" put in the new filter and now it was making that noise. After looking at it and realizing how expensive it'd be to just diagnose it he said, "If I were you I'd just have your friend take a look at it."
Luckily he'll be an attorney in just a little while. I think that is the best fit for him!

(More pictures and updates to come. I am officially the WORST blogger.)

{ back to school }

2011-07-12T13:58:00.002-04:00

I'm taking summer classes at BYU!
It feels a little strange to be back 3 years later.
Not my favorite classes, but they are a mean to an end.
Just counting down the days until the semester is OVER!

My dad was sure to take a photo before I left for my first day.

{ graduation }

2011-07-06T22:53:00.005-04:00

I rarely brag about my husband, but I just have to say how proud I am of this handsome man! He graduated from the University of Chicago Law School, and I couldn't be happier for him! He is such a hard worker. He definitely gave school his all and his efforts paid off. He has been blessed with so many talents and I love seeing him put them to use. I think law school was the perfect fit for Jared. He loved it! I hope the next stage of our lives is filled with just as much fun and growth!

{ packing up }

2011-07-06T22:43:00.002-04:00

Oh the joys of packing... The kitchen was definitely my least favorite part to pack. I just know I'm going to open a bunch of boxes full of broken things. We'll just cross our fingers that most of it made it there safely.

The last night we spent in our little apartment was not the most pleasant. All we had left out was a little lap blanket for the two of us. It was the middle of June so we weren't thinking it would be a problem. But we were wrong. We were both FREEZING! We were huddled up with our hoods on trying hard to sleep, but it was nearly impossible. -Note to anyone moving leave out decent blankets to sleep with!-

{ goodbye chicago }

2011-07-02T16:02:00.007-04:00

We will always cherish our years spent in Chicago! It was hard to leave our fun little apartment and all the great friends we made. These are just some of the fun things we tried to squeeze in before we packed up our lives to start a new adventure.
Me & Kenzie How lucky were we to live in such a gorgeous place!

One last girls night with Monica, Elise, and Barbie. These girls are amazing!

Margie's Ice Cream with Patrick and Kenzie. I miss this couple so much already! They are so much fun!

Dinner with Krystal, one of my best friends from hair school.

Bonfire at Promontory Point.

One more rollerblading & beach day.

- Dinner at Kim's house with her family. I worked with Kim in the Primary for almost the whole three years. She does SO much service for our ward. I love her!

Our Church in Hyde Park.

One last sunday night game party! We love people who love games!

{ sometimes it's nice to just get away }

2011-06-02T08:24:00.005-04:00

We spent the weekend in Indiana with two of our good friends, Patrick and Kenzie. They live in the most amazing place! They live right on a lake where everyone has docks right in their backyards. Literally they could boat from one of their homes to the other on a different lake! I swear when I was little I thought that kind of place was imaginary. It was so pretty! Their parents were so kind to us and made us lots of yummy food!

We watched a lot of good TV. (Jared and I have been missing out on quite the entertainment cable offers.) We went boating. We went to a turtle race, mostly on accident. We went to a great Mexican restaurant. We Played with their awesome pet dog and cat, & just had a really amazing time!

It was wonderful to get away and forget all our troubles.

{ ballet }

2011-05-27T10:52:00.007-04:00

We went to the Santa Fe Ballet last Tuesday. Even though it probably wasn't Jared's first pick for a date night, it turned out to be one of the funnest dates we've been on in a long time! Our enjoyment might not have come from an absolute appreciation for the dance, but we had a lot of good laughs! There was a modern piece where it was silent for about 10 minutes as the dancers did bizarre moves. I don't think Jared and I were mature enough to handle that. We seemed to be the only ones trying to contain bursts of laughter. Literally we could not look at each other or we'd lose it.

Also this was definitely a highlight.
This fine gentleman was grooming his mustache during intermission and his girlfriend even stepped in to help the sides curl up. It was awesome.

I love this boy. He is so attractive to me. I went to the Board of Trade. He came to the ballet. Oh the compromises of marriage are wonderful.

{ last day of work }

2011-05-25T13:36:00.011-04:00

I had my last day of work yesterday! It's bittersweet. I feel SO blessed to have had that job. There were so many amazing things about it!

It was so close to my house I could literally walk there on the days that weren't too cold.
They were so kind to me! I've had so many wonderful conversations with these people.
My boss was so easygoing. She trusted me from day one- fresh out of beauty school.
I was able to take a lot of time off to go home and see family!
I met so many amazing clients from literally all over the world.

To the first Beauty Salon I ever worked in- I will miss you. Thanks for being so good to me. Now I'm ready to move on!

- Packing up my station! Jared didn't believe me that I'd need a suitcase.-

-Amy -

- My boss Ruza -

- Sue (the receptionist), Me, Neda, Steve -

- Jeanette -

- ImoJean -

- Tina -

- Karen the evening receptionist -

(Sorry for the picture overload!)

{ blue-gray }

2011-05-20T22:29:00.002-04:00

Jared approved of this picture to highlight the hazelness of his eyes.

According to Wikipedia Hazel eyes often appear to shift in color from a light brown to a golden-green. Hazel mostly consists of brown and green.

Nobody said brown or green. Sorry love.

{ what color are jared's eyes? }

2011-05-20T09:11:00.005-04:00

PLEASE help us settle our dispute.
What color do you think Jared's eyes are?
Brown, Green, Hazel, Blue, Gray?

I think he is kidding himself about the color of his own eyes.
I'm pretty sure he lied on his driver's license.
Maybe I'm crazy.

{ favorite conference talk }

2011-05-19T11:03:00.001-04:00

{ Chicago Board of Exchange }

2011-05-17T13:07:00.004-04:00

When you act supportive and listen to your husband go on and on about something as exciting as the Board of Trade, and then even indulge him farther and let him show you about 10 youtube videos about it, what do you get?

Your own tour of the Chicago Board of Exchange!

What our tour guide took an hour and a half to say I could sum up in one short sentence. "This was a lot cooler 20 years ago, but now it is pretty lame."

It was fun to get out and do something different with the husband, but next time he isn't that interested in what I'm talking about I expect his full attention!

{ i love my family }

2011-05-11T12:41:00.006-04:00

Maybe this is why I get giddy about Utah.

Excuse the nasty hairdo and sweatpants.
It was a Sunday afternoon.
The real question is why isn't everybody in their pajamas?
Oh and Natta, I bet you wish you had let me take one more picture, because look whose eyes are closed!

{ girls weekend }

2011-05-11T12:18:00.005-04:00

I don't think there is anything I look forward to more than trips home to Utah! I seriously get giddy on the plane ride every time!
We had a girls weekend with my Aunt Dicksy and her girls. It was so wonderful that we could all be there this year! I love just talking and laughing with these girls! We also had quite the shopping marathon, I'm not sure I have the most endurance of the bunch, but it was fun!
Somehow this is the only picture we got of all of us girls. The store people probably wanted to kill us.

Tammy surprised her mom and sisters! They didn't think she was going to be able to make it this year! It was so fun!

We also got together with girls on my dad's side and it was so funny! They always get me laughing SO hard! Thanks girls for spending time with us! Love you all so much! (I'm sad I didn't get any pictures!)

{ i love mothers }

2011-05-08T14:24:00.010-04:00

I love my mom so much! Really, I could never adequately say what she means to me. She is one of my very best friends. She is someone I can share my greatest joys and deepest sorrows with. Her love and support have always been a strength to me. She is the most amazing lady and I hope I can grow up to be just like her!

I am also grateful for my sisters! Being the youngest I am so lucky to have their incredible examples to look up to. They have both mothered me in so many ways! I love that we are all so close! They are such cute mommies to their little kids and I'm so glad I've been able to learn so much from them!

I'm so glad that I have a wonderful mother-in-law. She raised the man I love, and I will forver be grateful for that! She is such a good lady. I love how much she loves her family and all the ways that she serves. I'm so glad I have her example in my life.

Today I am just so thankful for the power of good women in my life.

{ Bunny Bread }

2011-05-06T12:13:00.003-04:00

I love traditions.
We missed being with family for Easter this year, but we had fun with the two of us.

(Oh and I accidentally spilled pink egg dye all over the carpet! Good thing we are moving, and they will replace the carpet anyways.)

{ happy easter }

2011-04-24T16:51:00.003-04:00

This picture was taken 3 years ago at the cemetery with my cute grandpa. I'm so grateful that Jesus Christ broke the bands of death, so that we can be with our families forever.

Here are a few of my favorite Easter thoughts:
"The Savior's atonement in the garden and on the cross is intimate as well as infinite. Infinite in that it spans the eternities. Intimate in that the Savior felt each person's pains, sufferings, and sicknesses. Consequently, he knows how to carry our sorrows and relieve our burdens that we might be healed from within, made whole persons, and receive everlasting joy in his kingdom. May our faith in the Father and the Son help each of us to become whole."
Merrill J. Bateman

"Though you may feel that no one can understand the depth of your despair, our Savior, Jesus Christ, understands. He suffered more than we can possibly imagine, and He did it for us; He did it for you. You are not alone."
Dieter F. Uchtdorf

"The more we know of Jesus, the more we will love Him. The more we know of Jesus, the more we will trust Him. the more we know of Jesus, the more we will want to be like Him and to be with Him by becoming the manner of men and women that He wishes us to be, while living now 'after the manner of happiness."
Neal A. Maxwell

"To all who may have doubts, I repeat the words given Thomas as he felt the wounded hands of the Lord: Be not faithless, but believing. Believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the greatest figure of time and eternity. Believe that his matchless life reached back before the world was formed. Believe that he was the Creator of the earth on which we live. Believe that he was Jehovah of the old Testament, that he was the Messiah of the New Testament, that he died and was resurrected, that he visited the western continents and taught the people here, that he ushered in the final gospel dispensation, and that he lives, the living son of the living God, our Savior and Redeemer."
Gordon B. Hinckley

"Love is what inspired our heavenly Father to create our spirits; it is what led our Savior to the Garden of Gethsemane to make Himself a ransom for our sins. Love is the grand motive of the plan of salvation; it is the source of happiness, the ever-renewing spring of healing, the precious fountain of hope. As we extend our hands and hearts toward others in Christlike love, something wonderful happens to us. Our own spirits become healed, more refined, and stronger. We become happier, more peaceful, and more receptive to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit."
Dieter F. Uchtdorf.

{ chicken }

2011-04-22T12:37:00.004-04:00

I haven't eaten meat for over 2 weeks!
Why? You might ask.
Well my lovely husband decided he'd like to start with live chickens on a campout and end with chicken dinner. Yes, those are feathers on that bird!

We had to do a trial run, since this is not really a "skill" my husband has.
That meant I went to a slaughter house. Watched two chickens die. Videoed the killers dissect one of the birds. Let my husband bring a chicken corpse into MY kitchen. Defeather it and make our whole apartment smell SO SO awful.
Pretty sure I am a nice wife.

I just can't look at meat the same. I saw that thing cluck and then saw it in my frying pan. There is something disturbing about putting meat in a pan that is already warm because it was just alive.

I hope this vegetarian thing doesn't last. I am a girl that loves my meat. I love not being picky. I need to just get over it.

(Jared looks happy in these pictures, but he is scarred too. He'd be fine if I never cook meat in our house again!)

2011-04-15T21:48:00.004-04:00

Things I'm grateful for Today:
1. My husband. He is the most supportive man I could have ever dreamed up.
2. A job that forces me to smile and chat with people even when I don't feel like it.
3. Saving $$$.
4. Sprinkles cupcakes! Why not splurge a little when you save a lot?
5. My Savior Jesus Christ. I'm loving this Easter season as I try to learn more of my Savior and allow him to be a part of my daily life.

"Gratitude is not the result of things that happen to us; it is an attitude we cultivate by practice. The more we are thankful for, the more we will find to be thankful for."
- Alan Cohen

{ our first photos }

2011-04-10T20:31:00.006-04:00

This is our very first photo together.
It was before our first date.
Jared got my number that night.
It was at a ward activity at a jump place.
Who would have thought we would get married 8 months later?

And who would have thought that these two (one of my best friends and his brother) would get married as well?

{ embarrassing }

2011-03-31T21:53:00.008-04:00

Oh my goodness.

I have never seen something so embarrassing in all my life.

This flash mob goes from proposal to wedding in about 45 seconds.

I would have never forgiven my husband.

Jared thought it was the coolest thing ever.

He just told me that our wedding was so lame compared to this.

(& he wants to be on the show.)

{ spring break part II }

2011-03-29T09:53:00.006-04:00

We also went and had a mini getaway downtown. We stayed in hotel 71 right on the river, went to the cheesecake factory, and brought cupcakes back to our room. I am dangerously in love with sprinkles cupcakes. They are SO good. Jared always asks why I can't make cupcakes like that. I wish I could!

I also took my fun money and hit the shops! I found lots of great deals! I was just wishing my sisters and mom were with me. I can't wait until our girls weekend!

(Do you think I was in a stripe mood?! Geeze.)

I also went and got my makeup done. I feel like I have been wearing the same makeup since I was probably about 12 years old. Ok, maybe not 12. I have let go of the white eyeliner. But basically I've never felt like I had a clue what looked good on me. I just randomly would pick things. So I went to MAC and had them apply makeup. I was thinking Jared would think I looked so pretty all done up. When he saw me he said,

"Woah! Have you seen yourself in the mirror?"

"I've never seen you look like that before."

"Does she know how dark she made your eyes!?"

"I didn't think you liked girls that wore that much makeup. You look like what you would call a plastic."

"You just carved a river in your face!" When my eyes were watering from the cold.

I was laughing so hard. I guess my husband likes just plain old me. (He probably would have liked the everyday look, it's the nighttime look that probably scared him.)

{ spring break }

2011-03-29T09:25:00.006-04:00

We decided to have a "stay-cation" instead of squeezing in a quick weekend trip. (Since I had to work over spring break.) It turned out to be a lot of fun! We alloted some money just to have fun with, and we had so much fun spending it!

Jared chose Medieval Times. He loved every second of it! Really, he was pretty into it.

I enjoyed it too. But I wasn't entirely sure how to act. When you walk in the door and a grown adult greets you in full costume with hello my lady and my lord, are you supposed to bust up laughing or act like it's normal?

{ Hospital Haircut }

2011-03-17T22:58:00.001-04:00

I just got back from the hospital where I cut a 10 year old girl's hair. She just started chemo and wanted to cut it short before it all falls out. I was so nervous before I got there-- unsure of what I would find to work with. But when I got there I was so overwhelmed with love. Her dad was there taking care of her and he was the sweetest man I think I've ever met. He was so sensitive to his little girl. He had been calling around all day trying to find a salon that would come in and cut her hair. He had talked her through everything. He had even painted her nails for her. (That is what got me the most!)

I just kept telling her how brave and beautiful she was. She really was so brave! I thought I would have to cut through the tears, but she was smiling and completely calm with everything that was going on. I was so impressed by her strength.

She gave me a huge hug when I left and I gave them my number so that they can call me when they are back at the hospital and I can come see her.

I feel so blessed to have had this experience. It really was so touching.

Girls Tell All

2011-03-08T08:29:00.003-05:00

Why on every Bachelor when it's time for the Girls Tell All show does everyone say they are so excited to see all of the people they dumped? And why are those that got dumped acting equally excited?

I can't think of many things I would dread more than sitting in the hot seat with a room of all my exes.

Yikes.

{ And why did the dentist want to hug someone else's boyfriend? }

I don't get it. But it is very entertaining. Can't wait for the finale!

Who do you think will win?!?

{ princess party }

2011-03-05T15:57:00.002-05:00

We had a princess party over Christmas break with all of my nieces. We let them put on their own make-up -which was hilarious! They all have such different personalities. Some want to put as much on as they possibly can. They would never stop on their own. They think you could always use a little more lip gloss. Others would just try to put it on in all the right places and not over do it. Then they all put on princess dresses. My mom let them pick out new princess shoes to match.

We then had a princess tea party. My sisters and mom had me put on my prom dress and serve them. haha Oh wow. My mom made a super cute cake and we even cut their sandwiches into flowers. I'm not sure who had the most fun, us big girls or the little ones.

{ hairstylist }

2011-03-04T09:11:00.004-05:00

Being a hairstylist is such an interesting job. People trust you. They trust you with their insecurities, whether it's their ears that poke out, their receding hair line, their shape, or the hair that keeps growing on their ears.

Beyond the physical they turn to you for the many facets of their lives. They trust you with the intimate stories of their lives. Maybe it's because they know they have an hour uninterrupted with you. Maybe they just need to be heard. Maybe it's because we are complete strangers and the fear of judgment is absent for once. All I know is that I love this job. I have met amazing people. I have seen so much strength and resilience in ordinary people.

{ patience }

2011-03-01T09:40:00.010-05:00

I feel like patience is one of those lessons I am continually being taught. Not my favorite, which probably means it is exactly what I need.

"Patience is not passive resignation, nor is it failing to act because of our fears. Patience means active waiting and enduring. It means staying with something and doing all that we can—working, hoping, and exercising faith; bearing hardship with fortitude, even when the desires of our hearts are delayed. Patience is not simply enduring; it is enduring well!"

-Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Continue in Patience

{ my valentine }

2011-02-22T11:37:00.010-05:00

We celebrated Valentine's Day yesterday and it was such a great day! I feel so lucky to be able to share my life with such an amazing man. He is my best friend. We love our life together! I can't believe that this is our 4th Valentine's day together. How crazy.

Our perfect day included the following:

1. Cuddling! Is it weird that we've been married for almost 3 years and we still love to cuddle?

2. Workout together. Jillian's 30 day shred has been kicking our butts.(Jared knows how happy this makes me.)

3. Valentine's Breakfast: Pink poppyseed cake & raspberry crystal light.

4. Exchanged Valentine's. Cards are one of my most favorite parts of holidays.

5. I gave Jared socks and threw away all of his socks with holes in them. He has been saying forever that he can't wait until we are rich enough to not have to wear socks with holes in them. I told him we are already that rich.

6. Jared got me some long stem roses. I love having fresh flowers in my house!

7. Nap

8. Dinner at Mercadito. Such a great restaurant! Perfect decor. Great service. Delicious food. & they even have 6 different kinds of guacamole! I don't think Jared has been that happy at a restaurant since he discovered the gourmet mac and 5 cheeses at TGI Fridays.

(This is a terrible picture. We were too embarrassed to turn the flash on. But Jared wanted to make sure we got a picture. :) )

9. Watched Bachelor. (Jared had to bail because he had to help someone he hometeaches, I guess that is a pretty good excuse. I know he really did want to watch it.)

10. Ate our cupcakes from Sprinkles. I love this little cupcake shop.

I feel so blessed to have love in my life.

LOVE

2011-02-07T10:10:00.003-05:00

" We need an unspoiled companion who will not count or wrinkles, remember our stupidities nor remember our weaknesses; ... we need a loving companion with whom we have suffered and wept and prayed and worshiped one with whom we have suffered sorrow and disappointments, one who loves us for what we are or intend to be rather than what we appear to be in our gilded shell."

Spencer W. Kimball

Blizzard!

2011-02-02T17:02:00.005-05:00

This is Lake Shore Dr. one of the main highways here in Chicago! Pretty crazy. Lots of cars got stuck last night for hours upon hours and many had to abandon their cars. I'm not sure what the city is going to do about all this snow.

This plow was stuck. That was as far as it could go down the road.

That white field is the lake.

I don't think we'll be driving our car anytime soon.

There is at least 3-4 feet of snow on the entire road where our car is parked. There is even a car stuck in the middle.

This is the sidewalk! How crazy?

I chopped my hair!

2011-01-31T22:32:00.004-05:00

I feel like my hair has been the same forever! This was a much needed change!

Wow. Did it always look that nasty in back and I just didn't know?

A little emo? maybe.

Jared's 27th Birthday!

2011-01-28T21:45:00.005-05:00

Jared's birthday is the day before Christmas Eve, which means it can easily get mushed into everything else. So I was thinking it would be fun to get away and go to a nice hotel to celebrate. Jared didn't think that was such a good idea. Instead he wanted to go laser tagging. So we went with my family and it was so much fun! It was pretty hilarious. I think my mom only shot about 4 people in the entire hour. I was the MVP for my team! I guess I have some secret skills. It was just us in the whole place with one other birthday party. The birthday boy was 10.

It was such a fun day. I love this boy so much! Sharing our lives together is so much fun!

Candy Works

2011-01-28T13:04:00.006-05:00

Jared and this little cutie were buds over Christmas. I'm not sure if it was the candy at church, or candy for hugs exchanges, but Jared did win Peyton over. This is so attractive to me. Love him.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Morning

2011-01-28T09:54:00.009-05:00

On Christmas Eve we always go to my Aunt Dicksy's house for a party. It's so great to get together with everybody!

We started the night off with our traditional bingo game with awesome prizes.

My Mom led all the kids in some Christmas songs with the bells. The kids loved it.

Jordan and Carston being the Innkeeper and Joseph in the Nativity play. Carston even memorized his part!

Jared being the donkey.

Singing some Christmas Hymns on Christmas morning before we open presents. I love this tradition.

Two very excited girls!

Jared and me on Christmas morning.

I told Jared all I wanted for Christmas was for him to give me one of his ugly shirts. Does that make me an awful wife? He gave it to me and I cut it up. Good riddance.

This year for Christmas my sister Natalie made my mom a headboard and we got her bedding to go with it. She hasn't had a headboard since forever. I love her reaction! She is so fun to buy for because she is so appreciative! We love you Mom and Dad!

Christmas

2011-01-28T09:15:00.004-05:00

This year we went to my house in Utah! Everyone was able to be home for Christmas and it was so great! I love my family so much!

My Mom and Dad decorated the house so beautifully!

The awesome snowman Dustin built with the girls.

We got to see Dustin's mail truck. He is the cutest mailman ever.

Lots of little girls having fun!

My cute Grandma Janice after she came over for a haircut.

Aaron, Jared, and Dustin before they went skiing!

Love this.

2011-01-12T11:12:00.003-05:00

I'm a little obsessed with this song right now. Love it.

Thanksgiving Cruise

2010-12-01T12:53:00.002-05:00

For Thanksgiving we went on a cruise with Jared's family. It was lots of fun! We went to Cozumel, Jamaica, and Grand Cayman. It was so nice to take a break from the cold winter and enjoy the sunshine!

Formal Night

Grand Cayman- we were on our way to snorkel with sting rays in the ocean! How crazy!

Pretty sure I lucked out big time to have my best friend for a sister in law!

Ziplining in Jamaica! We were all really proud of Tracy for braving it out!

All the girls on the trip.

There were peacocks just roaming around the beach at Cozumel. They are such pretty animals!

Halloween

2010-11-10T12:18:00.006-05:00

We had fun celebrating Halloween! We had some friends over and carved pumpkins and had delicious pumpkin muffins.

This isn't the best picture because we did it on a Sunday afternoon.

Jared eating some nasty fruit. Every time he comes to the produce store with me we leave with something strange.

Patrick and Kenzie

Todd and April

Our ward also has a huge Halloween party, it's pretty much the biggest party of the year because everyone leaves for Christmas. Jared was proud that he won the doughnut eating contest.

2010-11-01T19:38:00.003-04:00

Going to Costco and loading up on groceries and going through the check out line to find that your American Express is expired is awesome. Especially when there is a huge line behind you. Pretty sure I was so embarrassed my eyes filled up with tears.
But on a positive note, I did have $100 dollars in cash so I only had to put a few things back. So the trip wasn't a total waste.

A Simple Thank You

2010-10-22T21:03:00.003-04:00

Best thing about today:

Right before I left work the phone rang and the caller asked if I was there. I had cut her hair a couple of days ago and she just wanted to call and tell me that she really loved her hair! So she was just calling to say thanks.

How sweet was that? Pretty much I love her and she made my day.

2010-10-14T10:50:00.006-04:00

I am loving fall in Chicago. This picture doesn't do it justice, but the view from our apartment is amazing! How could I not be happy when I wake up to this?

I am dreaming of the day when I have one of these!
Seriously I spend so much time a day walking blocks to get to my car, then trying to find a parking spot, then attempting to parallel park, and then once again walking, searching, walking. It is a fun cycle that comes with living in a city. When we move I am most looking forward to having my very own place to put our car.

I'm also still enjoying one of the flowers Jared gave me over 2 weeks ago! The other three flowers that were in a separate vase all died within a week. This one still lives. Kind of odd, right? The only difference we can think of is the others had the special flower powder. Are florists purposely killing our flowers?
(Don't mind our little indulgence of ourselves. Maybe we should invest in some other decorations besides pictures of us.)

A Crazy Squirrel

2010-10-07T22:02:00.002-04:00

This morning the strangest thing happened as Jared and I were walking to our car. A squirrel came running right for us. Usually it's the other way around right? They should be scared of us! But not this little guy. He ran right up to us and we even tried to move out of his way, but he was determined to get us. He was literally touching Jared's shoes and jeans. I was worried he was going to try to run up his pants. It was that bizarre. As it lingered by us we thought it might be hungry, so Jared pulled out some chocolate and he nibbled away at it. He let me get so close to him to take this picture on my phone. When he heard it take it, he looked up at me, but didn't run off. We started walking away and he ran after us. Jared ran and the squirrel just ran faster. I began to worry that he had rabies or something. We got away from the crazy squirrel, but it was very strange.

New Job

2010-10-03T11:05:00.004-04:00

The best present I got on my birthday was a JOB! I actually ended up getting 3 offers which was a huge relief! I decided to work at a salon here in Hyde Park. I'm so grateful for this opportunity. It'll be so great to keep learning and get some experience. I'm still a little nervous, but I'm sure it'll get better.

23 Years Old!

2010-09-28T09:43:00.003-04:00

My birthday was the day before we left to San Antonio. I can't believe that I'm 23... I still feel like I'm 18. Does everyone feel like they look exactly the same as they did in highschool? or am I just kidding myself? or do I seriously still look like I'm 18?

It was a fun day and I'm so grateful for everyone that made me feel so loved! Barbie and Josh are the greatest friends we went over to their house for games and they made cupcakes and even had balloons. They seriously are the best!

San Antonio

2010-09-28T09:20:00.005-04:00

We were able to fit in one last summer vacation to San Antonio where we met up with my family. We had lots of fun playing games, shopping, riding horses, swimming, shooting guns, and just relaxing. It was so fun to just be together. We missed you Dustin and Jordan!

Heather made me a birthday cake and we had fun celebrating.

The family - I wish Heather wasn't behind the camera!

I have the best mom and sisters ever! I love each of them so much! Who does their beautiful hair?

We decided shooting skeet is harder than sporting clays.

I only shot one, but it was fun!

Riding Horses

We couldn't get enough of this little stinker. Jared thinks she's the only one that likes him. That could be because he buys her candy. :)

The pool was lots of fun! There was a wave pool, a lazy river, a big slide, and lots of stuff for the little kids.

when it rains it pours

2010-09-14T19:06:00.003-04:00

In the last hour 3 potential employers have called me and another one emailed me. Things just may work out. {Let's cross our fingers}

This pic. came from here.

Tall Ships

2010-09-09T08:30:00.002-04:00

We love boats. Navy Pier had a bunch of tall "pirate ships", so of course we went! I even bought an eye patch just for fun.

Sweetbread

2010-08-31T16:51:00.004-04:00

This is what I thought I was ordering.

This is what came out.

I was a little surprised.

According to Wikipedia sweetbread is actually the culinary name for the thymus (throat, gullet, or neck sweetbread) and the pancreas (heart, stomach, or belly sweetbread), especially of the calf.
Nasty! Pretty sure I would have preferred bread that was sweet.

summer

2010-08-28T20:37:00.011-04:00

Wow! It's been three months since I last blogged. I think it's time for a catch up. We have had a busy and fun summer! Right after Jared finished his last final we packed up the car and headed out to Texas. Jared's parents were nice enough to let us live with them while Jared did his internship at Baker Botts. Jared was super busy with work assignments, commuting to work, law review, applying for clerkships, and lots of social events put on by the firm. I on the other hand was not so busy, but I did manage to have a great time. Highlights of the summer include.

1. My sister Heather and I drove to Arizona with her two sweet girls. It was a long drive, but they seriously couldn't have been better. Arizona was so much fun! I love just being with my family! Almost everyone was able to make it. We missed you Jared, OB, and Jordan.

2. I babysat my sweet nieces Hallie and Peyton for a week while my sis went to Cancun with her hubby. I had so much fun swimming with them twice a day, painting, storytime, games, bubbles, painting nails etc. A huge thank you to Tracy and Kev for letting me tend at their house and to Ashley for helping me out so much!

3. I crafted with my mother-in-law Tracy. I finally took my sewing machine out of the box.

4. Jared's firm took us shooting. I shot my first shot gun and Jared was able to shoot an automatic. That may have been one of the happiest days of his life.

5. Jared and I read the Hunger Games series together. They are such great books!

6. Played lots and lots of games with the family- Ticket to Ride, Bang, Bonanza, Liars Dice, Pounce, The People Game, Mario Brothers, Rock Band, etc.

7. I was able to do some hair! Hopefully I'm not too rusty.

8. I went home to Utah! It was SO great to be back! It had been over 7 months since I'd been home! I loved seeing everybody so much!

9. I was able to drive down to San Antonio and help my sister with Hallie's princess party. It was so adorable! I loved every second of it!

10. We took a trip to Cozumel! It was so nice to just be together and relax.

11. We celebrated our 2 year anniversary. So lucky to be in love.

12. We went to the American Idol concert! I surprised Jared, mostly because I didn't think he'd be excited. He was a pretty good sport though.

13. Jared was able to get in some golfing with his dad and Adam.

14. I read some really great books, The Help, The Giver, The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, Mockingjay, The Last Song, There Are No Children Here.

15. Jared got an offer at Baker Botts! We are SO excited about this! I'm so proud of him for all of his hard work, and I know that we are truly blessed!

T.V.

2010-05-23T22:40:00.005-04:00

Chelsey: "I hate when you ignore me when you are watching T.V."
Jared: "I hate when you talk to me when I'm watching T.V."

I guess I'd rather be ignored than Shhhhh'd though. There is nothing I hate worse than when Jared tells me to Shhh.

P.S. We think this is funny. We aren't awkwardly fighting on our blog.

the joys of picture taking

2010-05-22T10:43:00.007-04:00

Yes they knew their pictures were being taken.
This is how they posed every time.
I definitely stood no chance.
I think I got some insight to why my husband is not camera friendly.This is Jared's older brother Kevin that is "so cool".

Although it's hard to tell from their faces,I think we had fun while Kevin was here.

oh hair school

2010-05-19T18:51:00.008-04:00

This last year of school has been such a blast! It has definitely been one of the happiest years of my life. I am so grateful for the experience. Not only did I learn to do hair, I made some of the greatest friends and met the most wonderful people. Here are some highlights.

First Day

Cutting week. John's turned out just like him, but not like the rest of the class.

The Zoo

Funky Hairstyles

Free Hugs!

Caper Kick Off{Grease vs. Hairspray}

Going Downtown

Fashion Shows

Classes in Vegas

Caesar's Palace

All White Party-

Met John Paul Dejoria & Angus Mitchell

Got to know the amazing Kinley

Taught by my amazing instructor- Sky

Phase 2- I love these people So so Much! They made me laugh every day!

Graduation

May parents came out! It was so great to show them my school!

This is Krystal and pretty sure she is one of my favorite people ever!

I cut this well known ice skater's hair at a design team event.

James is probably THE funniest person I will ever meet. Seriously.

I knew Sara and I would be great friends from the moment I met her. Love her!

Clocking out for the last time. Bittersweet.

I miss school already.

a colorful year

2010-05-06T19:25:00.010-04:00

This is how my hair began:

Then:

With only 4 days left of school I need to pick a shade.

not so much love for big love

2010-03-24T23:05:00.004-04:00

When I tell people I'm from Utah there is one follow up question that is by far not my favorite."OMG. Have you seen Big Love?"The answer is no! Nor do I care to. No it is not like that in Utah. I don't know any polygamists. I have never seen one at my church. There aren't secret ones roaming around everywhere. etc. etc.The best part is when they correct me and tell me that it really is like that in Utah. I'm sure they would know better. I've only been a devout member my entire life. But what do I know about my religion and hometown?

{ you are beautiful }

2010-03-22T09:37:00.007-04:00

The other day I was in a conversation with some of my closest friends at hair school and they began to ask me how I got so good at being positive about myself. They wanted to know how I was able to not pick myself apart in the mirror each day, or compare myself to every girl my eyes came across. At first I just sort of laughed and probably said something sarcastic, but they pressed further and honestly wanted to know. They told me they couldn't even imagine how it would feel to not care or think about how everyone saw them. I know how they feel because I used to be there too. I think most girls have been and a lot still are.
I didn't have an easy answer for my friends then, and I'm not sure I still do, but overall I'd say for me it takes practice, gratitude, and acknowledging who i am.

It takes practice to be kind to yourself. You have power over your words and if you control your words you can begin to control your thoughts. It is as simple as not saying critical things about yourself. Really it is possible. When you want to say something negative about yourself just stop and find something positive to say instead. This is one that takes continual practice.

Gratitude is key to loving all of yourself. It will stop you from being your worst critic. When you realize just how fortunate you are to have the body,abilities,and health that you have, you would feel silly to complain about such trivial things like as a few extra dimples in your behind.

The biggest and most powerful thing is recognizing that you are a child of God. He created you. He loves you perfectly. He sees you as a beautiful daughter with so many talents and wonderful attributes. To waste energy on unrealistic expectations and harsh comparisons wouldn't make him proud, it would make him sad. He wants to see you happy. Start to see yourself for who you really are, and what you are capable of doing, and forget everything else.

I am definitely not perfect at this, and I don't claim to be. But I am around so many beautiful people each day that just don't see it. They beat themselves up over the tiniest details. I've heard them say they hate parts of their bodies I didn't even know I had. It just makes me sad to see such beautiful women waste so much energy worrying about these trivial things.
So let's all just stop the madness and love ourselves completely.
We are all beautiful.

2010-03-10T20:15:00.004-05:00

As I was driving home from school, the car that was two cars in front of me had an issue. Its tire fell off. The whole tire went rolling down the freeway without the car. It was bizarre. It wasn't shredded or anything it just came off and went rolling. Luckily it didn't cause an accident. I had no idea tires could do that.

better at updates.

2010-03-09T20:56:00.003-05:00

I'm going to make more day to day updates starting now.
Jared started finals.
This means I get to entertain myself while he studies hard. Actually, I've pretty much been doing this all year thanks to Law Review. :)
I made molten lava cake and ice cream tonight.
It was pretty delicious.
School is great. I feel so lucky to be doing something I love.
I love the people I get to spend my days with at school.
I love making people feel beautiful, and talking with strangers usually makes for a good time.
I only have about 2 months left and honestly I will miss school, but I can't wait to go see my family and spend my Saturdays with Jared. That will be awesome.
Oh and it is finally above freezing in Chicago! It has been in the 40's and I am loving it. It's been rainy, but that's great because it means it is too warm for snow!
Life is just really good. No complaints.
i love these pictures.

2010-02-16T21:44:00.005-05:00

We had fun over the holidays!
I know this is a lame post after quite the break from blogging, but I needed to get it out of the way in case something exciting to post about comes along.

2009-12-15T21:47:00.002-05:00

"The culture we have does not make people feel good about themselves. And you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn't work, don't buy it."

Tuesdays With Morrie

... F.A.L.L...

2009-11-17T22:27:00.007-05:00

I'm getting SO excited to go home for Thanksgiving! I figure that I can't let my next post be about Utah again, because we do actually have a life in Chicago. So I'm finally making a post.

We celebrated my birthday! Regina Spektor was AMAZING live! I loved the mix of the piano, cello, violin, and drums. We had so much fun! (& my Mom sent me these delicious cupcakes! They were incredible!)

All the sailboats went in for the winter. This always makes me a little sad because it means the view from my window is changing from beautiful blue lake to cold iceberg! It was kind of neat to see them lift the bridges to let them through.This is one of my good friends from hair school, Heather.

Halloween was fun this year! We had some friends over and carved some awesome pumpkins. Jared decided he'd be master chef and experiment with different seasonings for the seeds. The fire alarm ended up going off, but some of them turned out pretty good.

On Halloween Jared and I went to the ward party and then went to Navy Pier to watch the fireworks and ride the Ferris Wheel.

Quick Trip to Utah

2009-09-07T12:18:00.008-04:00

I really love living in Chicago with just Jared and I, but every now and then I need my Utah fix. It is the little things like these that I miss...

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...More....

2009-09-07T11:29:00.003-04:00

Katie and Adam came to visit! We were both so excited for them to come. It was so much fun! We played A LOT of games. A lot of Rook, boggle, and nerts, etc. We also had a campfire and cooked hotdogs and smores, we fed the birds, went to navy pier, had ice cream at Gherdellis, and had great pizza. Jared and Adam spent 6 hours at the aquarium. During OCI Jared for some reason mentioned he just went to the aquarium with his brother. The interviewer asked, "How old is your brother?" probably expecting about 6, not 23.

A Lovely Anniversary

2009-09-07T11:12:00.004-04:00

I love Jared. Being married to him is the best! I am so happy knowing I get to share my life with him. He's such a good man. Celebrating our Anniversary was THE best day! I loved every minute of it! We went out to breakfast, took a private sailboat ride, shopped, took a nap, went to dinner, played boggle, and watched a movie. I couldn't have asked for a better day!
My very favorite things about the day were exchanging letters and the sailboat ride!I have found a new love for the sailboats since living here. I love watching them out of our window. There is something so peaceful and beautiful about them.
I'm so lucky to have Jared. We make sense.

...More...

2009-09-07T10:55:00.006-04:00

For school we went to the zoo and also had to stand on the corner and give Free Hugs. It was pretty funny.

Tracy and Ashley also came to visit! We had a lot of fun while they were here. It was great to spend time with them. We played a lot of games and went to the art museum. We also went to Cirque Shanghai which was amazing! Those people can do some crazy things with their bodies. It's always nice to have family come. We appreciate them making the trip and for all they did for us while they were here!

I'm so proud of Jared for making Law Review! He worked so hard! This is him getting the call.

And this is us celebrating! Good job!

...Summer Fun...

2009-09-07T10:31:00.006-04:00

In July we went to the Taste of Chicago. It was really crowded! Like the kind of crowded where you can't move and other people's sweat suddenly becomes your own. Occasionally a fight or something would break out and there would be tons of people running toward us. It was kind of strange. We had a lot of fun trying new things and watching the fireworks. We feel lucky to be in such a gorgeous city!

We also got these sweet pictures that I've been wanting. Whenever I'd drive to hair school I'd pass these headless statues. I told Jared that every time I saw them I wanted to just poke my head out the top of one. So we did. It was silly.

Campfires were also something we enjoyed this Summer. We live so close to the perfect place for fires. It is right by the lake and has an amazing view of the skyline. Love it!

Regina Spektor

2009-06-27T09:08:00.003-04:00

Jared got us tickets to Regina Spektor for my birthday. The concert is September 12th and I'm super excited! I love her. You should listen to her music. It will make you happy.

* I love my Dad*

2009-06-21T20:54:00.007-04:00

I love my dad. He is such a good man. I'm so grateful to have him as an example in my life. He has always supported me. As my sister put it, he's the man behind the camera of our lives. When I look at pictures of my life it is tangible reminder of how lucky I am to have a father who was, and is, such an active part of my life. He was there for everything and was sure to document it with film. He sat through every dance recital- even if it was the same recital three nights in a row. He sent me off to all of my proms and was sure to meet my dates. (& he was protective enough to give them what me and my sisters call the look.) My dad was there on the family vacations and trips to the park. He was there for the holiday traditions. I never remember being let down because he had failed to show up. He truly is a remarkable man.
I'm so grateful for the life that my dad chose to live. He didn't grow up with a father in his home because his father was an alcoholic. It is incredible to me that my dad was able to break the cycle and live a wholesome and respectable life.
I have nothing but respect and love for my dad. He loves to laugh and joke. His children never question his love for them, and his grandchildren adore him. He is honest and kind. He is gentle and very patient. He is wise and genuine. He really is such a wonderful and unselfish man. My respect has grown for him over the years as I watched him help care for my grandparents. I think it takes quite the man to live with the inlaws for 17 years. He never complained and was able to manage sharing a yard, a lack of privacy, 3 hour trips to wal-mart,and spray paint on the house. He also didn't complain about the time my mom sacrificed to be with them. He's such a wonderful and supportive Dad. I love him and think he is just the best!

.an END and a BEGINNING..

2009-06-09T22:34:00.004-04:00

Jared is finishing up with his 1st year finals! Tomorrow is his last one! We both are excited for that! He's been working hard and putting in a lot of time. I'm really proud of him! He's awesome. It's crazy that we only have 2 years left of law school. This year has gone by really fast!
I started hair school and I love it! It is a lot of fun. I really enjoy the people that I'm with all day and I love learning the skill. I'm so grateful everyday that I get to be there. Jared calls it a feel-goodery- we have pow wows in the morning, break rituals, dance parties, home play, and use scented markers to take notes. :) We also talk chemistry and memorize a lot.

Funny moments:

Today as I was sitting in the parking lot a man walked over and peed. Right there. In daylight. On a busy street. I was worried that he was going to flash me when he started messing with his pants, but no, he just had to go.

A girl was asking me if I'm really married?
I said yes.
She said no, like really married, some people just say they're married, are you really married?
hmmmm... are there really people out there claiming to be married that aren't? Should I be asking this same question to my friends? Who are all these posers?

To Happiness {Chelsey}

2009-06-01T21:24:00.010-04:00

( I stole this idea from another blog)

1.That moment when driving down the road in a new city, you realize that it feels like home.
2.Watching the sailboats from the living room window.
3.Hearing “I’m happy for you” from those you love most.
4.Starting your own family traditions, like making ice cream on Sundays, with your new husband.
5.Hearing children's laughter.
6.Going to bed and waking up in arms that truly love you.
7.Waiting for something you want, not giving up on it, and then getting it!
8.Seeing God’s hand in life and seeing the “why?”
9.New flat shoes and light pink lipstick.
10.Rollerblading on the lake trail and feeling the sunshine after a LONG winter.

HoO-RaH!

2009-05-25T20:55:00.004-04:00

What might I be taking a head shot for? Oh, just for hair school! Yay! I finally signed my contract and wrote out the check! I've wanted this for a long time, so I'm VERY excited! I start June 2nd.

PS I did not chop my hair (yet) the wind is just always blowing! Talk about cheesey!
PPS I am so grateful for this! Really.

Family Visit

2009-05-21T23:10:00.005-04:00

Most of my family was able to come and visit Chicago last week! ( We missed all of you who couldn't come!)I appreciate everyone making the trip out here and John for watching the kids in Utah! It was a lot of FUN! We spent Mother's Day at my apartment hanging out and playing games, did a lot of shopping, ate lots of good food, went on the boat tour, saw Legally Blond the Musical, went to the Field Museum, took pictures at Millennium Park, rode the train, and spent time just playing games and hanging out.

We also were able to go to Iowa for Aaron's Graduation! We are so proud of him for finishing medical school. He will be a great doctor! I'm sad they're moving, since Iowa is pretty close to Chicago, but Texas is close to the next best thing. :)

My Mom is the Best!

2009-05-13T10:13:00.004-04:00

I absolutely love my mom! She is not only the greatest example to me, but she really is one of my best friends. I admire so many things about her, one is her ability to serve. She is constantly doing nice things for others and putting others before herself even if it means she always eats last and never sleeps :). With the passing of our sweet Grandpa I couldn't help but say to her, "You did it!" She cared for my Grandma and Grandpa for 16 years. How wondeful to be able to pass away in your home being cared for by your family. There were days when I know it was hard and exhausting, but she never complained once. She took in every moment and appreciated the joy of serving. My grandparents would often tell us that she never spoke one unkind word to them. She is the most selfless and sacrificing individual I know. I'm grateful for her example.
My mom is also one of my best friends. My memories of us together include many nights after she had picked me up from somewhere or we'd be out running errands we would sit in the driveway just talk. (Now Jared makes fun when I don't get out of the car right away. I'm just so used to talking. :)) Other times I remember coming home from dates or hanging out with friends and she was always waiting up for me. We'd sit in the kitchen and eat a treat or clean the kitchen and just laugh and chat. During college she would come and get me in the morning and drive me to my early dance class. Lots of times she'd even bring me a cinnamin roll.We also went to lunch once a week. I feel so close to my mom because she's always been someone I could talk to and share my life with. I trust her and she gives good advice. If I complain about something she's always there to turn it around and make me see someone elses point of view. That has taught me a lot of perspective.
I love my mom! She is classy, funny, hard working, kind, easy to talk to, grateful, Christlike, selfless, and sincere. I miss her, and I am so happy that she could spend mother's day at my house in Chicago! She is truly an amazing lady and I feel so blessed to have her as my mother!

The Game of Social Life

2009-05-08T12:44:00.001-04:00

Thank you John and Brett for this great production. I know Natalie posted it, but I wanted to too. :)

* Utah *

2009-05-04T22:10:00.008-04:00

I've seen a lot of blessings in my life lately. One being that I was able to go home to Utah for 2 1/2 weeks. It was really nice to spend time with family! I really feel lucky to have such amazing individuals in my family. They all mean so much to me.

"...love is how you stay alive, even after you are gone." - Tuesdays with Morrie

2009-05-01T21:06:00.005-04:00

Yuck.

2009-04-26T12:59:00.003-04:00

I got barfed on.
In the face.
If that's not the most mother-like thing I've ever done,
I'm not sure what is.

Hallie has claimed the fame. Poor thing has been really sick while I've been watching her and Peyton. She's still a sweetheart, even if she did vomit 12 times in one night. She keeps saying,
"Remember, I'm not going to throw-up today"
"Are you sick Chelsey?"
"I'm two, is that cool?"
"Peyton is my sister. I love her."
"Mommy is going to bring my car back."

Do moms really get used to the nastiness? I really don't think it's possible.

Grandpa Dick

2009-04-12T22:18:00.012-04:00

I love my Grandpa Dick. He and my Grandma moved in with my family when I was five, and having him as a part of our home was our greatest blessing. I feel so grateful to have grown up with such strong example of how to truly live life. He lived life to the fullest and lived it well. Watching him and my Grandma together showed me the type of relationship I want. They always put eachother's comfort first, laughed together, held hands, and would even stay up late talking. They believed in sticking things out and making the best of any situation.

Grandpa passed away on March 27th. How happy he and Grandma must be to finally be together again. Seeing Grandpa for a year and half without Grandma felt so unnatural. They are meant to be together.
Death is never easy. At any age the loss is still there. Even with the knowledge of eternal families, you just miss them. Grandpa is missed and will be missed in our home forever, but we have the sweetest memories of growing up with him. He was the kind of person that you instantly loved, and was someone you remembered. He brought such a bright spirit to our home. We love him and miss him.

Last year Grandpa and I had fun as we celebrated Easter eating bunny bread up at Grandma's grave. This year with the loss of Grandpa so close celebrating Easter has been so refreshing. I am so grateful for the atonement and the knowledge I have of my Savior, Jesus Christ. I feel so blessed to know that we can be with our families again.

Each set of grandkids gave a talk at the funeral, here is what my siblings and I came up with.

What it meant to live with Grandpa Dick for 16 years
• Never coming home to an empty house, because Grandpa was always there and ready for a visit.
• Always having our tummies full of licorice and pockets full of change.
• If by chance you happen to get a staple stuck in your finger, Grandpa would remove it with his pliers, even if he had to chase you down.
• Having someone to sit on the back porch with and have a drink.
• Having a constant example of what it really means to be green. He understood the concept to reduce, reuse and recycle: finding your old car mats with holes as a new welcome mat for Grandpa’s shop, finding newly washed saran wrap hanging in the kitchen, or saving the string from the water softener salt bags.
• Hearing cheerful whistling as Grandpa built his latest problem solving invention, most of which were to make Grandma’s life easier.
• Being proud to introduce him to our friends
• Having another parent to meet and approve our dates.
• Learning the proper order of dining at chuck-a-rama.
• Learning there’s always something to be happy about. Even on the gloomiest days you could expect to see Grandpa with a cheerful smile pointing out an interesting cloud formation.
• Learning that you are never too old to start a new hobby. At the age of 80, Grandpa bought himself a sewing machine, and took great pleasure in hemming his pants (even if one leg ended up 4 inches shorter than the other). This added a new benefit to us as we’d pick up on the latest fashion trends. Such as the blue leopard printed neckerchief Grandpa proudly handcrafted himself.
• Knowing it wouldn’t be long after you walked in the door before Grandpa would hear your footsteps and be up to give you a big hug and a loving hello.
• Learning that golf is a serious game, even when played on a miniature course.
• Watching Jazz games and hearing the phrase “That Kirilenko is a great player. I sure do like him.”
• Having late nights on the couch watching the rodeos.
• Waking up Grandpa, and having him act as if he had never been asleep.
• Seeing a bright pink bird house in your backyard.
• Learning that material possessions are not the most important thing. Like if you happen to wreck your car by hitting a bus or rolling it in the canyon, you could expect Grandpa to calm you down, reminding you it is just metal.
• Playing Cribbage on the kitchen table.
• Always hearing the phrases “ oh just have a little more” or “Can I get ya anything?” “Do ya need any money?” or “Oh a little licorice never hurt anyone”
• Going on trecks to DI, feeding the ducks, trips to Honks and WalMart.
• Receiving phone calls to inform us about the weather.
• Knowing that if there was a fire in the middle of the night, Grandpa would make a mad dash to get dressed and come running upstairs to help.
• Living with a constant reminder of how marriage was meant to be.
• Hearing, “isn’t she an angel?” when you’re only half way up the stairs.
• Being proud that your Grandpa named you, even if your middle name is Dawn.
• Having an extra hand to help with school projects.
• Hearing over and over that our Mom has never said an unkind word to him.
• Realizing that old age isn’t an excuse to stop learning something new. 90 years old is a great age for your first digital camera.
• Banging pots on New Year’s Eve.
• Seeing a pumpkin on your porch with a cute little sketch of a horse drawn on it.
• Eating Donuts on Saturdays with Grandpa Dick and Grandpa Danny.
• Eating your breakfast with Grandpa by your side reading the newspaper.
• Being able to find a solution to every problem. Like putting up a fence down the middle of the yard so we could have a dog and he could still have his garden.
• **Home made picture frames
• Remembering that “Once a cowboy, always a cowboy.” Even at the age of 91 he made sure he was equipped with his cowboy hat and boots before ever leaving the house.
• Knowing that even though you could expect him to say he wasn’t hungry at supper time, he always found room to finish everything on his plate.
• Hearing stories about the good ol’ times on the ranch, and very rarely hearing the same one twice.
• Having someone to appreciate your cooking even through the learning years.
• Seeing our parents take tender care of Grandma and Grandpa.
• Pulling up to see Grandpa watering the dry spot on the lawn- and wondering why it only gets bigger every day.
• Learning from him to always make good use of your time. We’d often hear him say “What should I do? What could I be doing?” It was a common occurrence to see him out back smashing pop cans, planting flowers, feeding the birds, working in his shop. And after a snow storm it was always a race to see if you could beat Grandpa outside to shovel the walks.
• Hearing, “Knock Knock is anybody home?” each morning.
• Listening through the monitor to hear the sweet interactions of Grandma and Grandpa.
• Having the opportunity to play in a 4 man scramble golf tournament together and winning a trophy that could be seen on his mantle.
• **Buying cinnamon rolls thinking “about others” to share.
• Sharing Christmas mornings with Grandpa.
• Receiving many phone calls wondering where mom was or if we think she’d be home soon.
• Playing games with Grandpa. Even bowling and golfing on the Wii.
• Helping us realize that actions speak louder than words
• Learning that there’s no such thing as too many marigolds.
• Being thanked for every little thing.
• Showing us he believed in people and treated them accordingly.

break the ice

2009-03-13T14:42:00.005-04:00

Last week this is what Lake Michigan looked like. Cold right? We had fun trying to break the ice by throwing rocks and trees at it. We couldn't break it, so Jared thought we should try walking on it. Luckily I was the grown up and said no. Chicago is such a pretty place even in the winter, but I'm really excited for spring! I heard a man singing to his child on the street, "The sun will come out in June..." Does he know something I don't know? Hopefully springtime will come before then.

Happiness :)

2009-03-09T22:17:00.001-04:00

Why Jason is a Skeeze

2009-03-03T23:11:00.003-05:00

1. He was on the bachelor TWICE, and he's a father. That's a lot of time to be taking a break from the whole Daddy role, and way to be a great role model for his son.

2. He cries too much. Seriously, who feels bad for this guy? He's successful, attractive, comes from a nice family, has millions of dollars, and can take his pick from a lot of great girls. Stop crying!

3. He doesn't say it like he means it. He's dangerous because he is so good with his words. It'd be easy to forget that he's completely being a jerk and screwing you over while his flowery words about feelings pour out of his mouth. Those are the worst kind of men. The ones who are upfront about being jerks are at least honest.

4. He claims that he is 32 and can't control the way he feels. Come on!!!! Please tell me he doesn't completely believe that. Being a mature committed adult is about controlling how you feel. If you can't manage that at least control how you act. It was not necessary to break up with Melissa on TV and then shove his tongue down Molly's throat. Let me guess, he couldn't have controlled that either. Nobody is saying he should have married Melissa if he didn't love her.

5. He thinks that one day he'll be friends with Melissa. Ewww. Who's he thinking about there? HIM, and only Him, of course. Melissa will not want to be friends with him, and Molly, who he loves so much, certainly wouldn't want them to be buds either.

6. It's all about PASSION for this sleezeball. Maybe this will come to a surprise to him, but the commitment factor does sort of extinguish the passion, to an extent. You have to work to have passion in your relationships, especially when you're in it for the long haul.

7. He's sort of boring. Yeah he takes them on great dates, but that's called money not personality. I wasn't impressed by his sense of humor or conversation skills. I know I didn't see a lot, but still.

8. He needs to get off of his high horse.

9. He makes me want to vomit.

10. Melissa is the greatest! Shame on him.

Yes, I really did just post about Bachelor. I really should find something more productive to do. But I was sucked into this show over Christmas Break thanks to Heather and Elise, and the end was awful! So this is me venting about the stupid slimeball Jason.

Late V-Day

2009-02-26T18:44:00.002-05:00

I love Jared more everyday. He really is my best friend. I love spending the simple moments together, mostly because, life with Jared is just fun. We can be the biggest dorks together, but I love that we keep each other laughing. He can make me smile and laugh when I'm down, even if that means he's tickling me against my will saying, "You like it. See you're smiling. I know this makes you happy because you're smiling." He is great at showing me affection and making me feel like a priority in his life. I love him because he is a genuine guy and loves what is right. He's such a strength for me. I love that he likes to get out and do fun things with me. He is a great navigator, and he really loves trains. :) I'm lucky to have such an appreciative husband. He thanks me for little things, like his lunch, everyday. He's also a champ at pac-man. Now that's a skill I really admire. He's a wonderful husband,and I feel so lucky to have him!

For Valentine's Day we went to Cafe Lux for dinner, but wussed out on ice skating because it was freezing. We'll go soon though. :)

. . visitors . .

2009-02-26T14:32:00.003-05:00

Heather, Aaron, Hallie, and Peyton all came to visit a couple of weeks ago! It was a short trip, but it was so fun to have family come and visit! Hallie and Peyton are the best little girls, not to mention absolutely adorable! They were so good! We made pancakes and cookies, read stories, painted Hallie's nails (& no John I didn't spill it this time), walked by the lake, played at the park, and just hung out. I loved every second of it! I feel so lucky to have such a great family and the cutest nieces ever!

Three of my closest friends also came to visit! It was so fun to have Abbey, Amber, and Katie here! I feel so lucky to have grown up with such amazing friends. We had a lot of fun seeing some of the sights, shopping, eating great food, catching up and remembering funny times. I've known these girls since I was five and I just love them! They are all hilarious and it's fun because we all know each other so well. I appreciate them making the trip out here so much! Really, they are the best!

i LoVe my nieces and nephew.

2009-02-06T15:35:00.004-05:00

I was spoiled over Christmas break because I got to spend lots of time with my nieces and nephew! Now I'm missing them a lot. They are so much fun! I love them so much! I can't wait for Heather to get here this weekend with her two girls. Being an aunt is the best!

MLK Day

2009-01-30T17:03:00.007-05:00

Jared and I went to the African American History Museum on Martin Luther King Day. It was an interesting experience, and I'm really glad we went. We watched dancers decked out in Obama gear, made bookmarks with MLK quotes on them, and we watched a film about the 1960's Civil Rights Movement.

Long Over Due

2009-01-30T16:14:00.004-05:00

I've been meaning to post about Christmas break for a LoNg time. I kept thinking I'd scrapbook all my pictures first, but since I haven't, I'll post anyway. I was lucky enough to go home for Christmas for 33 days! I left before Jared had finals so I could play and he could study. It was so great to be with my family! Before moving to Chicago I had never been away from home for more than a few weeks, so it was really nice to be back. Jared's family came to Utah too, so that was fun to spend time with them. Some of my favorite things about the break were:
Playing cards/games with our families
Sleeping in
Lots of family parties
The nativity scene
Good food
Staying up talking with the family
Seeing 9 Pounds
Sledding
Drinking all the Diet Dr. Pepper I wanted
The presents Jared gave me (Pac-man and a canvas and paint)
Spending lots of time with Jared. I love him.
Bowling with my whole family! It's not too often that we can get everyone together.
Playing video games
Seeing my Grandpa
Going to dinner with some of my closest friends
Learning to knit
Making gingerbread houses
Having a huge breakfast on Christmas morning
The Christmas pajamas I bought Jared and me.
Seeing my new niece Kate. She's precious.

Thanksgiving in Texas

2008-12-05T11:28:00.003-05:00

We were able to go to Jared's house in Texas for Thanksgiving. It was great! The weather was a lot warmer than here. I have to say that's the first time I've been hot while putting up Christmas decorations. His family was so nice to us and we had fun eating great food, playing games, and watching movies together. Somehow the only picture we got was of us at some shops.
Something fun Jared and I did for the month of November was put up this dorky turkey and write things each day that we were thankful for. We also hung up quotes around the house to remind us to be grateful. I know that there are so many blessings that come through being thankful.

Photoshop

2008-11-24T13:17:00.002-05:00

So I just started to learn how to do photoshop. It's been a lot of fun to try and make scrapbook pages without all the mess and crooked edges. It's also been really time consuming, but I really enjoy it. I was really excited when I got the e-mail about a FREE snapfish book, but I'm an IDIOT and I thought the deadline was yesterday, but when I went to purchase it online I was really sad to realize the deadline was Saturday. Oh well right. It's given me something fun to do for awhile.

Our First Obama Sighting!

2008-11-17T13:25:00.004-05:00

On Saturday we both got up close and personal with the
President Elect, Mr. Obama. I was working out when secret service men started roaming around, so I knew he'd be coming. I didn't know I'd still be on the bike an hour and a half later waiting for the man. Sure enough he did come walking in. He walked right in front of my machine, got on a treadmill and walked while he read the paper. A little strange to have the President Elect working out in the same small room with you. How do you not, at least a little bit?
Then Jared was leaving the apartment and when his elevator opened the secret service told him to wait there. Unexpectedly Mr. Obama was right there! He turned and looked Jared in the face. Jared nodded, and Obama nodded back.
It feels like a movie when you walk through the halls of your building and there are secret service people roaming everywhere in their black coats.

Sunday Ice Cream!

2008-11-10T23:28:00.003-05:00

I love Sundays! It has been so fun to be with Jared for all three hours of church. We love teaching the five year olds! Church was really funny yesterday because it was the Primary Program. The kids have so much personality and energy! I love it. They are seriously hilarious.I couldn't help but but get the giggles on stage. Between children screaming the songs in my ears, pushing each other to be in the front, and spontaneous outbursts whenever it got quiet, I just couldn't help but laugh. Our kids definitely weren't the most well behaved kids, but by the third hour of church what five year old wants to sit still and be quiet? I'm almost convinced it is impossible for some children. :)
I also love Sundays because it means homemade ice cream! Since we've been in Chicago we've made ice cream every Sunday. It's been a lot of fun to try to new things! I love that Jared loves this tradition. Without fail, he insists we make it on Sunday, even if we just had dessert at a friend's house, had a big dinner, or it's 11'oclock at night. If I suggest making it a different night he responds with, "What's today? What day do we make ice cream? I'm going to pretend you didn't ask that." Secretly when I was in Iowa he even tried to make it without me. I think he realized he does need me.
The picture is of this weeks vanilla bean ice cream and Grandma's chocolate sauce! It was really good! It called for a real vanila bean which we thought was fancy. My college roommates who saw me eat nothing but, cereal, quesadillas, pasta roni, and gushers would be shocked to know I actually have been cooking.

Halloween at Heather's

2008-11-06T09:50:00.005-05:00

This last weekend I went to Heather's house! It was so much fun to spend time with her and her cute girls.I love them so much! Hallie was so cute trick-or-treating. She was all for it! Peyton is such a cute baby! She's so happy and cuddly! It was fun to see Hallie be such a great big sister. She's always kissing her and saying, "Pey Pey. Hi sweetheart. Hi." She also carries her baby around all day mimicking Heather by changing her diaper, wrapping her up in a blanket, feeding her etc. I'm so grateful that Heather and Aaron would let me come and stay! It was great, especially since Jared was in Indiana.