Madison Kate

Kindness always wins

2012-01-16T08:23:00.001-08:00

So on account of I am going to be wed in roughly 4.5 months... I have been thinking and talking a lot with my future spouse-to-be about raising little ones and how to teach them correct things. I found on Pinterest the other day a little something that goes like this..

I really truly want to instill this in my future family. I will be the first to admit that I am too harsh, critical, and judgmental of others when I don't know them, their story, or their life. It is my goal and wish to be more kind... to all. I guarantee that if we all knew what people have gone through in their lives and understood why they are the way they are.. we would be more kind and loving. This is what I hope to do and be... and my kiddos!

Home for the Holidays

2012-01-06T08:15:00.001-08:00

Nick and I got to go to Arkansas for Christmas this year!!! We had such a fun time with family and getting to visit the people Nick taught on his mission. It was a great trip... but now back to school!!

Went to see Mamaw during the holiday!

Emily, Nick, and Lauren on Christmas day

Me and Nick on our way to church for Christmas!

Familiar Faces

2011-12-19T22:19:00.000-08:00

Had the lovely opportunity of going downtown with my best friend and her family to take their christmas card pictures. Crazy group and still I call them family ;)

Cade, Cooper, Kaitlin, Connor, and Cole

Pinterest to the Rescue!!

2011-12-04T18:21:00.001-08:00

So lots of people have the theory that Pinterest is a time waster and that is doesn't provide any useful things... I completely disagree.

To me, Pinterest is

-Teaching me new skills

-Adding to my recipe stash

-Helping me dress better

-Boosting my photography knowledge

AND

-Completed my wedding planning process.

Nick and I needed a breakfast recipe yesterday.... and Pinterest came to our rescue.

We made a low carb-low fat breakfast pizza and LOVED IT!! I think next time we will try the crust out of biscuits for a more fluffy texture, but overall it was a huge success, thus only solidifying my love and PRO Pinterest thoughts =)

Breakfast Pizza Recipe!!

give it a go!

IN YOUR FACE!

2011-11-29T17:21:00.000-08:00

Well.. my dear friends...

My lovely fiance decided that it would be a funny little joke to do this on Thanksgiving...

(apparently this is something that people do... hahah. Didn't know it really happened.)

He asked me so nicely, "Madison, does this whip cream smell sour??" And I so happily stuck my face down next to it to take a whiff.... and ended up with pie-filled-nostrils!! =) This however was a good experience for me.. I will be the first to admit that I need to loosen up sometimes!!

Wife'N it Up!!!

2011-11-17T15:41:00.000-08:00

So Tuesday was the first day of my Wifey-ness kicking in. Nick called and told me he wasnt feeling well, so I decided to go down to Bountiful and baby him... (so nice right?! haha)

But turns out he really was super duper sick!!!!

Long story short-- His doctor gave him medicine for High Bloop Pressure (which he doesnt have) but it can also be a preventative medicine for renal failure (also which he has no signs of)... and it dropped his BP so low that he was non functional.

--Hard to breath, difficult to walk, fever, chills, dizzy like crazy... NO BUENO!!!

We went to the ER at 12:30am and stayed till about 3:00am and then just took it easy the next day. Thankfully, he is off the medicine and is feeling much better!!! It was the first of many experiences I will have has a wife (even though I'm not quite yet to that title haha) And I can't WAIT!!!! <3

The Pocket Foundation

2011-11-14T14:01:00.000-08:00

Hello to my lovely friends and family!!! I did better this time at posting in a reasonable amount of time. =)

This is a special post that is focused on Cole Larson, one of my new nephew's. A foundation has been set up in Cole's memory that is geared toward helping the underprivileged. Cole loved helping others and always wanted to make sure everyone had what they needed. The Pocket Foundation is a foundation that collects necessities such as coats, hats, shoes, school supplies, etc. for children in need.

For those of you who like to donate or help out the less fortunate during the holiday season, The Pocket Foundation would be a great way for you to do so.

Please visit our website!!!

The Pocket Foundation

You can also find The Pocket Foundation on Facebook and like our page for updates!!!

Quick Update

2011-11-02T21:39:00.000-07:00

So I have obviously been MIA for the past while... oops. Been busy busy planning my wedding.. and I AM DONE!!! There are a few minor details that will be on my to-do list for the next little while, but other than that... D.O.N.E.

Wedding dress, cake, reception location, bridesmaids dresses, flowers, linens, wedding party clothes, photographer. CHECK CHECK AND CHECK!!

This is why we are made for one another.... this is our

best angle for sure..

Pumpkin carving afternoon!!!

Danny and Sandy for Halloween

Here are a few pictures of events of the past little while!!!

Greatest day of my life

2011-10-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Soooooo last night I got ENGAGED!!!!! To the most amazing man I have ever met in my whole entire life. I love him so much and cannot wait to get married!

For all of those wanting to know the engagement story and how it all went down... here it goes!

--Nick and my mother have been plotting this for a little while now and I had NO CLUE. My mom is coming out to Utah on October 19 and Nick kept telling me that he just didn't feel right about asking me before she came out so they could "formally" talk... and I completely believed him.. I mean why wouldn't I???

Last weekend Nick had a work convention in Las Vegas and came home telling me about this class that was taught at their convention on making a time capsule and that he thought we should do it. So the whole week I gathered odds and ends that reminded me of the love of my life and brought it all to Bountiful so we could bury the time capsule. We decided that we would bury it up on the side of the mountain that overlooks the temple because it is a special place to Nick.

He then told me that we were to attend a wedding reception last night for a girl that works with him. So I put on a dress and some sandals all ready for the reception. He told me that we would go to the reception and then head to the mountain (so I figured I could change clothes that were suitable for hiking up a mountain)::: not so much the case:::

Nick, being the sly man he is, goes to the mountain and says "Let's do the time capsule first because I want you to see the view from up there at sunset and if we go to the reception first we will miss the sunset!" I was a titch upset at this thought because... HELLO... I'm wearing a dress!!! So we gather all of our time capsule items and Nick also brought his guitar. (odd...?? I wasn't really sure but he said he wanted to sing a song for one of his items.. ok I believe that!)

As we are hiking up the mountain, Nick decided to bust out the video camera that we were going to put in the capsule and film me griping the whole way up and being a total brat about sweating and hiking in a dress.. :::so cute of me I know:::

We get to the spot and go back and forth showing and telling about the items we chose all on the video camera. I show my last one and so does Nick and then he says " Ok, now I will play my song for you! I hope you know this song...." Well I didn't know the song.. haha. The song was called "Question" by the Old 97's. The chorus says, "Someday someone will ask you a question that you should say 'yes' to..." He then asked me if what that meant to me.. and I responded in a bratty way by saying " What... like maybe you should ask me a question sometime and I will say yes!!"

Still completely oblivious at what is going on, Nick says "When should I ask you that question??" I say, in a joking matter, "Oh maybe like tomorrow or something..."

Then he reaches in his backpack, pulls out a ring box, gets on one knee, and asked me to marry him. It was honestly 100% the most perfect proposal I could have ever imagined. I was completely shocked, because I thought it would be at least 3 more weeks until we were engaged. And it was truly one of the only times in my life that I have ever been surprised! (which I LOVE!)--

Words cannot express how happy I am to be marrying my best friend. We are getting married on June 2,2012 in the Bountiful Utah temple. I simply cannot wait!

Bear Lake

2011-09-25T14:09:00.000-07:00

This weekend while Nick was out of town at a conference in Las Vegas I went with the rest of his family up to Bear Lake for one GREAT WEEKEND!!! We had a blast! Such a great family and I am so glad that I get to be a part of it.

Family blackjack night... ( I won... no big deal.)

Some of my adorable nieces and nephews-to-be!!

Heading out for a day on the lake!

Jayci was my bud the whole weekend. She is the sweetest little thing.

It's Ya Burfday...

2011-09-15T11:54:00.000-07:00

Today is the day that the woman I call my mother was born... She is the greatest woman I know. She teaches me daily and makes me want to be better. She has shown me that ANYTHING is possible--whether that is raising children on your own or getting blood out of something that has been there for 3 years--

We do go at it from time to time... which more times than not is because we are more alike than we realize. She taught me how to be independent, how to tie my shoes, how to make my own lunch in kindergarten consisting of a cheese and bread sandwich, cheetos, string cheese, and orange tang.

My mom is wonder woman (if you didn't know). She can pack a suitcase to perfection and make a mean homemade pizza.

She is currently helping me plan a wedding... which I do believe may be the largest challenge she has yet to face =) I can't think of a better person to help me do this.

Thank you Mom, for being the best person I know and teaching me to always love those around me... even if it isn't what I want to do. I LOVE YOU!

Bow to your partner.

2011-09-01T10:49:00.000-07:00

This morning at the prime time of 7:30 am I had the lovely privilege of learning how to SQAURE DANCE!!!!

Not going to lie... probably the most fun I have had in a long time. I feel somewhat deprived that being from the south that I haven't been square dancing before now. I wouldn't mind one bit keeping this up till I'm an old lady =)

In my class, we will be square dancing for the next 3 weeks. CANNOT WAIT! We are also going to learn ballroom, the waltz, swing, and aerobic dance. This class is right up my ally!

2011-08-30T16:03:00.000-07:00

Back to school it is!!! It has been great the first two days!! Long and tiring but great. Senior year is going to be a blast and I can't wait for it to all come full circle.

Lots of things have changed... friends gone, new friends to come, new roommates, new classes. But as my best friend Natalie always says... " A stranger is just a friend you haven't met yet!" Such wise words Nat =)

Life is beautiful.

2011-08-22T22:28:00.001-07:00

So I never really thought I would post about this, but it has happened. I AM IN LOVE!!!!! truly this time...not with like a song, or a food, or a piece of clothing... With the most amazing guy.

Love him so much.

Best trip ever.

2011-08-02T19:04:00.000-07:00

I just returned from the one and only NYC and can I just say out of all the places that I have ever visited, it is my absolute FAVORITE!!!!! I will go back... soon.

Lauren, Me, and Emily going to dinner

Oh Hey Utah friends in NYC!

looooooove them

Who couldnt have fun with this group?!?

G-man

2011-07-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

My sister Lindsey and her new baby boy Graham came to visit this past week. G had a little photo shoot and they are PRECIOUS!!!!!!!!! He was a champ. And quite the photogenic child if I don't say so myself!

Take a look!

(this is my fav!)

2011-07-12T08:02:00.001-07:00

This past week was a very difficult one. I lost my godbrother Scott Van Asche. He was 34 years old and passed away of July 3. He was an amazing person and I loved him with my whole heart. I will miss him greatly and I know that he is still with us and always will be.

A few days before Scott passed away, Nick (the boy I am liking a whole whole lot) came to visit me in Arkansas. He was so great through it all and was so understanding and caring to all of us. I don't know what I would have done without him here. He is absolutely a great person.

Happy Birthday Jack

2011-06-25T18:27:00.001-07:00

Today was Jack's 3rd birthday! Can't believe he is growing up so fast. He is currently obessed with grills, grill tools, and tools in general. Rarely does he go anywhere without his channel locks, pliers, or screwdriver. He is such a boy.

Cupcake time!!

Checking out his new grill

Here I Come

2011-06-23T17:29:00.000-07:00

NYC

Madison

VERY HAPPY

7.28.2011

I wanna go back!

2011-06-19T18:25:00.000-07:00

This happens to be another post relating back to the Bachelorette... however this time it has nothing to do with the contestants or the show. Only to do with the fact that they are in Thailand!!!

I went to Thailand in the 7th grade to visit my sister who was living there at the time and I WANT TO GO BACK! It is such a beautiful place and I would love nothing more than to go back at an older age and truly be able to appreciate all of the wonderful experiences that it has to offer!

Please don't end

2011-06-17T20:37:00.000-07:00

I have spent the last week at my favorite place in the whole world. Navarre, FL.

It is pure perfection in an island.

Isolated

Cozy

Crisp

Hot

Beautiful

The best part of all... the memories.

Today's Find

2011-06-08T09:22:00.000-07:00

Sometimes StumbleUpon is my arch nemesis..

Today, not so much.

I found this blessed little saying and I truly need to reflect upon life in this way.

Have an outstanding day!!!!

I am thankful for...

by Nancie J. Carmody

...the mess to clean up after a party: because it means I have been surrounded by friends.
...the taxes I pay: because it means that I'm employed.
...the clothes that fit a little too snug: because it means I have enough to eat.
...my shadow who watches me work: because it means I am out in the sunshine.
...the spot I find at the far end of the parking lot: because it means I am capable of walking.
...all the complaining I hear about our government: because it means we have freedom of speech.
...that lady behind me in church who sings off key: because it means that I can hear.
...lawn that needs mowing, windows that need cleaning and gutters that need fixing: because it means I have a home.
...my huge heating bill: because it means that I am warm.
...weariness and aching muscles at the end of the day: because it means that I have been productive.
...the alarm that goes off in the early morning hours: because it means that I am alive.

There are three kinds of days:

Good days,
Great days, and
Outstanding days.

I hope yours is Outstanding!
Steve

Anticipating the End.

2011-06-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

So...... As tacky, trashy, dumb, idiotic, etc. the Bachelor/Bachelorette is, this season, I AM HOOKED. It is a waste of time in all honesty, but I can't help it.

After tonight's episode, so many things went so incredibly wrong, that I am in total anticipation of the episode, After the Final Rose.... wow.

Our dear ol' Bentley from SLC is a D- BAG to the max! Wow.. I cannot wait for Ashley to watch this whole thing and see his moronic and arrogant personality.

Ok that's it.

Loves!

Old Fort Days!

2011-06-02T10:07:00.000-07:00

Well it is time for one of my favorite activities of the year.... THE OLD FORT DAYS RODEO!!!! Yee Haw!!!

Last night my mom and I took the little girls I nanny and their mom to the rodeo and it was such a fun time!! Love being able to be true to my redneck roots!

Bull Riding: Highlight of the night!

Emily, Me, and Lauren!

Completion

2011-05-26T17:25:00.000-07:00

My life is now semi-complete due to the fact that

SYTYCD

started tonight.

It will have to substitute for friends for the next couple of months.

Have a Six Flags Day!

2011-05-23T09:13:00.000-07:00

There aren't too many things I love more than that initial plunge over the top of a 218 ft. metal structure. Six Flags definitely holds a special place in my heart. This weekend the fam headed down to Dallas and had a great weekend acting like children.

As much as I love the rides themselves, I have to say that my favorite part of the whole trip was listening to my mother make a noise somewhere in between a 7 year old girl being chased down the street and a billy goat having its throat slit. Priceless.

I. Love. Family. Time...and Roller coasters.

Working for the Weekend

2011-05-19T11:44:00.001-07:00

After being back in the good ol' Fort Smith for 8 days, I am ready to get out for a couple. I absolutely LOVE being home, but I have had to make some minor adjustments for the past week. I have played Mom to everyone. Entirely exhausting, but so much fun.

Reasons for playing mother:

- My mom has worked every night since I have been home.. which means she has slept every day since I've been home.. which means I have to entertain myself.

- Martha (the godmother) had a cyst removed off of her hand and is in a soft cast... so therefore she can't cook, fit clothes over it, or drive for a week.

- Mamaw is staying at my house for 2 1/2 weeks while my aunt is in AZ.

So what, you may ask?

Well.... after all of these insignificant, yet multiple things piling on top of one another... it gets tiring!!

Yesterday I woke up, made Mamaw breakfast, went to check on Martha, helped her get some things ordered, went to the grocery store, made homemade pizza for Martha and her husband... since she can't cook, made a treat for my mom to take to a work party, spooned 3 tbs. of trailmix into 20 individual snack size baggies, packed a snack basket for the car, did Mamaw's laundry, washed the dishes, vacuumed the house, went to bed, then took Lauren (child I nanny) to the orthodontist this morning, then Martha to Wal-Mart for a few items, then back to the house.

Summary of the past 30 hours of my life... Whoever thinks being a stay-at-home mom means they sit at home and do nothing is WRONG!

My cure for all of this? SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS!!!

Yep. All that work for everyone in the fam is deserving of a weekend trip to Dallas. Me, mom, Cameron, Liz, and Mamaw are packing up and heading out.

PLEASE AND THANK YOU!

Sounds Like Life

2011-05-15T17:41:00.001-07:00

You know how sometimes you get down on yourself and think that everything that is happening to you or people you know is the worst thing in the world??

Well.. this song helps me a little bit with that.

It is a nice comic relief and a friendly reminder that despite the unfortunate things that come our way... THAT'S JUST LIFE!!

So buckle up and enjoy the ride. =)

--click link below to view--

Darryl Worley: Sounds Like Life To Me

My Momma is the Best

2011-05-08T16:11:00.000-07:00

I'm glad that someone once decided to designate a day to mom's... they sure do deserve it. This week my mom has gone above and beyond with planning 3 parties in one week, cooking dinner for 40 twice, and doing all of it with virtually no sleep.

I love you Mom. You amaze me everyday... even though you think that I'm a nosey, hall monitor bratty girl about 95% of the time =)

Happy Day!

21 and Counting

2011-05-02T17:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my 21st birthday.. not too big of a deal here in Utah, and that is just fine with me!!

It was a great day. I could have done without having to move out of my apartment and literally recieving 2 hours of sleep in 50 hours.... =)

I went to church, ate with the fam, hung out with friends, and did some studying for finals.

The highlight of the day was this e-mail from my sister, her husband, and my two nephews. This is what life is all about. enjoy!

To Madison:

From Miles:

From Jackson:

From Chris:

From Chutney:

Love it.

Bargains Galore

2011-04-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

My morning was occupied by aimlessly wandering through rows and rows of biographies, self-help books, and sleezy romantic fantasies. However, through all the piles of uselessness, I found some real bargains. Along side Kayde Auger, I purchased the following.

It seemed like a waste of money to NOT buy these.. (that makes zero sense... I know, but it is the logic that I use to justify spending money.)

Ready for some summer reading!

Don't Try This At Home!

2011-04-14T22:01:00.000-07:00

Well I have a new addiction... and I haven't figured out if it is a positive or negative one yet... well I guess no matter what way you look at an addiction it's never positive. Oops.

Here's a big 'THANK YOU' to my friend Patrick Allred. He introduced me to this dear website.

www.stumbleupon.com

For those of you have not yet "stumbled"... give it a shot...

You

Dare

This is one beauty I stumbledupon... Love it.

STUMBLE AWAY!

A Day Down South

2011-04-12T16:16:00.001-07:00

This past weekend I had the lovely pleasure of accompanying the one and only Brady Mathews to Provo. We left mid afternoon and headed to Draper and make a stop at IKEA. Now I don't know about yall, but IKEA gives me the biggest sensory overload of my life.. I can appreciate all it does and stands for, but after about 20 minutes, I'm ready to high tail it out of there!

Next we went to heaven. (Oh excuse me, Nordstrom.) We shopped around for a while. I bought a fantastic new pair of TOMS wedges that are grey and cream stripped. Yay.

We then ventured to Mimi's Cafe for dinner and met up with some more friends.

Then, onto the highlight of the evening. We went to the BYU ballroom dance team performance. It was truly phenomenal! It was like being in the presences of Dancing with the Stars and SYTYCD all in one!!! Enough said.

Amazing little Samba... whew!

the Finale!! INCREDIBLE!

After the show, we picked up and went to this little HOLE in the wall of a place called Sammy's. Word on the street was Sammy's was the best milkshake place in town. They make not MILKshakes, but PIEshakes. I. AM. A. FAN!! I had the Apple Cobbler pie shake and Brady got the Chocolate Oreo Cream Pie shake.

This weekend was much needed!! Great shopping, even better eats, and the best quality time with one of my best friends!

1 month and counting!

2011-04-08T18:34:00.000-07:00

Life is always changing. Always bringing up a new challenge. Gives you joys and sorrows. Life is fantastic... I think I forget that sometimes.

Last time I checked, I was Madison Beyers. A girl going to Utah on a whim for college. Not sure what she wanted to do, and definitely not sure who she was!

I was hit upside the head this week with a world of new realizations.

1) I am going to be a senior in college...

2) People move and friends change, more than one may like.

3) Picking a career is harder than I thought.

4) Love does not come as easy as some may think it does, or that we would like it to.

So this time next month I will be moving home for the 3rd summer in a row. It will be an adventure! A couple of trips will make me one happy girl. Florida, New York, and Texas... what MORE could I ask for.

This month will go by quickly.. perhaps too quickly. But none the less it will come, so I am buckling up and hoping on... full speed!

In. Love..

2011-03-30T15:39:00.000-07:00

Yes.. It's true. I AM IN LOVE.... with engagement videos... =)

Here is my current fave!

http://vimeo.com/19913484

Check it out!

Loves!

Life Needs A Little Variety!

2011-03-21T17:07:00.001-07:00

So for the past 8 weeks I have been co-directing a Variety Show for the middle school where I work. I have been alongside the fabulous Mr. John Caldwell and we have had an absolute blast!

I did all the chroeography for the show and did some vocal coaching for the kids. It was honestly one of the most fun expereinces I have had thus far in my short life. Although it was stressful beyond belief, it was so worth it!

The show included numbers such as "Dynamite" by Taio Cruz, "It's a Hard Knock Life", and "It's Raining Men." Some skits were thrown in also. We had and I Love Lucy skit, Little Rascals, and the Brady Bunch.

My favorite thing about the whole process was watching these 6th and 7th graders gain confidence about themselves while developing new talents! I grew so close to them through this process. I wouldn't trade a single minute of it!

After all is said and done, this experience has made me more excited than EVER to graduate, move, and start working in a school and have students of my very own!

I LOVE TEACHING!! Seeing the joy and love on those kids faces is the most rewarding thing in the world!

G-O'ing all the break long!!

2011-03-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

Spring Break. I feel like this is a "holiday" that has soo many pros and a few cons..

Pros:

1) getting out of Utah

2) seeing the sunlight

3) shopping

4) creating memories, memories, and TONS more memories

5) making new friends

Cons:

1) coming back to Utah

2) spending too much money

3) coming back to Utah

So here is a quick recap. I went with my Bestie Natalie to AZ!! Heaven on Earth.. No lie!!!

Love this shot... but I was happy to banish the snow from me for a week!

Momma Sarg took us for Pedi's!!

Nat and I went to her brother-in-laws softball game

Boy Chloe (Robbie, nats little brother) finally discovered what was making the

wretched squeaking noise that I was convinced was a

mouse stuck in the car!

To end the week we stopped in Provo and ate dinner with our best friends from

our homelands!!! Love my Brittainy!

UDA: Unconscious Displays of Affection

2011-03-02T22:10:00.000-08:00

This may or may not be a semi awkward post, but regardless of the

possible humiliation it may cause me,

I have to share it.

3 nights ago (the Sabbath) my dearest room/bed mate Melissa and I had a very strange experience.

For the past school year we have shared a queen size bed... NBD right?.... married peeps do it all the time...so why can't we?

Melissa, is a sleep yeller/talker/walker/anything-elser you can think of.

She is one who sleeps through her alarm for an hour solid without moving a muscle.

I, on the other hand, am a freight train.

I snore louder than an angry mother grizzly defender her bear cub.

Melissa may be crushing on a boy.. we shall call him CG. So this particular night, Melissa dreams she is holding hands with the one and only CG. I, ironically enough, had the exact same dream. (however I do not have a crush on CG.. good thing because that would just make life more uncomfortable for everyone.)

Let's do the math together.

Melissa+Madison+CG+Dreaming =

Melissa and Madison holding hands.

End of story.

Awkward.

Unnerving.

Memorable.

Over it!

2011-02-19T19:39:00.000-08:00

I am over it. Completely. Done. Moved on from the frigid winter.

Now I just want out....

OUT OF LOGAN!!!

I need sun.

I need warmth.

I need shopping.

I need Yogurtland.

I need hours by the pool.

I need Arizona.

Only 2 more weeks until I am with my best friend Natalie in the comfort on Tempe, AZ.

Call me DJ Madi-Slack!

2011-02-15T16:50:00.001-08:00

so... let's be honest! I have been more than the average slacker as of late! I don't blog.. mostly due to the facebook stalking that has consumed me =)

So Today.. I vow.. that I will reduce my FB time by 15 minutes one day a week.. to blog. ( That doesn't sound as hard as it is.) haha

Here are a few activities that have kept me busy in the past month!

Went to visit the Gramps in SLC.

Good visit!

Lindsey's 2nd Baby shower!

Lots of sisterly love going on here!

(minus one)

We held our own themed weekend party!

Theme: Toy Story 3

Everyone was assigned a costume... it was dress up or die..

BLAST!

Night Skiing with the Bestie Nat!

Working Mardi Gras partay with the 2 besties!

We all worked in the psychic room.

All I have to say about that business is that I AIN'T MESSIN' WITH IT!

That is some interesting crap.

Like I am a skeptic (don't get me wrong) BUUTTTT

Those ladies knew what they were talking about.. and I believe all that jazz is real. It just

does NOT come from the right place...End of Story.

Love.

2011-01-27T16:54:00.001-08:00

So my dear sister Lindsey, whom I love very much, is having a baby. Ordinary you might say, but it is quite the contrary. For the past 11 years she has wanted a baby, but unfortunately that gift wasn't given to her.

This past summer, her and her husband decided to try invitro fertilization... and it WORKED!!!! Miracles do happen.

Last weekend I got to go with my sister to her long awaited baby shower given to her by her dear friend Kim.

It was an experience that I am so grateful for and I am so glad I could see the love and happiness she is feeling at this time in her life.

I Love you Linds!

Live it up

2011-01-05T17:12:00.000-08:00

For the past 3 weeks I have been back in the lovely land of my upbringing. Arkansas is simple amazing. I would not trade this place and these memories for anything in the world!

Every time I come back I am reminded of the people who love me and the people who made me what I am.

I have had a blast with my brother, who is hands down the funniest person I have ever known..

My mom and I had many great times together. Between shopping and sewing, memories were created.

Liz, my newest sister-in-law, have gotten to be close and I love it.

Lauren and Emily continue to grow up and learn all about life. It is hilarious.

My best friend Kaitlin is absolutely wonderful. We have gone from fighting over halloween costumes and who got to sing which part of which disney songs, to galavanting around town or the bowling ally making fools of ourselves and loving every minute of it!

I love this place. I love to come back. I love the people. I love my life.

Conquering the Fear

2010-12-27T14:22:00.000-08:00

Last night was a monumental time for me. For those of you who know me.. you may have heard a story about "thing" named Elvira..

Elvira is the evil ghost that lives in my upstairs. I had my first encounter with Elvira (named by my mom) in the 4th grade. The one and only time I have ever slept in my own room, on the second floor of my house, Elvira paid me a visit and made sure I would never return to that room.

Well last night my dear mother and I came home to a FREEEEEZING cold house. The heater downstairs didn't want to be working. That left the upstairs for sleeping arrangements.. first time in 10 years.

[dun dun dun]

All is well though.. I didn't get attacked by the evil Elvira. One fear has slightly been conquered.

--Well kind of. You would still have to pay me a large amount of money to go up their for no good reason--

Best and Worst Morning--All in One!

2010-12-15T08:23:00.000-08:00

Well, you know that feeling you get when you know you have somewhere to be and you try so hard to be there on time that you end up missing it? I do.

I had a final at 7:30 this morning. The alarm goes off at 6:30 am. I wake up. I then awake again to the quacking of my phone (this means Natalie is calling) The time?? 7:22 am. OOOOOOOOOHHHH SHOOOOOOOOOTTTT!!!!

I spring out of bed, say a word.. or two.. put on my house shoes (bad choice) and then leave. No hair brush, no teeth brush, no bra. Definitely my prime.

The test went swell actually, and I sported my finest attire to school. Unfortunately there are no photographs to be displayed, but let you imagination take you where it will.

The day proceeds to get better! Kynzie leaves for here final and Melissa and I want to wish her well from the balcony. Although it is covered in snow, we decide to run outside out the sliding glass door and sing to Kynz. No shoes, no coats, and pajamas. We were disrupted by the one and only Eddy ( our Mexican maintenance man ) who already thinks we are crazy. As we pranced around in the snow, he stared in utter amazement at our stupidity.

Worst and Best day of the semester.

Just laugh it off.

This too Shall pass.. or Will it?

2010-12-09T21:31:00.000-08:00

I'm hoping that the next 10 days pass with a speed so great that it makes Mario Andretti look like a tortoise.

I mean not that i don't love spending an average of 11.5 hours daily on the campus of Utah State, but i also do like the comfort of my own bed.... or food... or human interaction..

Thanks finals week 2010-- you've been a real treat!

Nasty Stache...

2010-11-16T18:12:00.000-08:00

Ok... one of my BFF's, Brooke, and I have this pet peeve.. it is called "People putting really hideous smilie faces in text messages"

Let me display a few for you.

1) The Winky Face- ;)

2) The Winky Face with a nose- ;-)

::for some reason the nose just gets me.. it is sick.::

3) The Tongue face- :-P

::this one takes the cake.:: PEOPLE>>> DON'T USE THIS! IT IS VERY UNATTRACTIVE!

Now for the next smilie that I will share with you. This was introduced to me a few days ago by my dear friend Landon Pope.. who has a monster stache.. He said that he tried really hard to find a smilie that suites him and he found one. (it makes me want to puke)

4) The Stache Face- ;-{)

Congrats Landon, you win the Nasty Stache Award.

Called To Serve

2010-11-12T18:11:00.000-08:00

This past Wednesday I had a once in a life time experience. I, along with my 2 other roommates, got to watch our best friend Jen open her mission call. Here are a few photos from the night!

The Roommies before the call was revealed!

Melissa waiting patiently..

So many family members came out to support J!

Best Friends!

Such an amazing time! She will be leaving on February 9, 2011 to serve in the New Zealand Auckland Mission! GOOD LUCK J FRO!

On NO you did not...

2010-11-07T10:01:00.001-08:00

For those of you who have been in an up close and person realtionship with me will know excatly what I mean... Namely:

--Brooke Shoko

--Natalie Sargent

--Kynzie Thorpe

--Jennifer Frost

--Melissa Marshal

.... Peanut Krohn?? not so much.

I unfortunately fell subject to this awful mishap.. never again.

V.P.L

Ok, so it wasn't as bad as this poor woman, but still. for me.. it was fierce. Never again. I have learned my lesson..

and let's just say those things called "underwear" were quickly ditched. Where? that shall remain nameless.

Oh what a day..

2010-11-06T09:18:00.000-07:00

Well I am almost positive that this picture sums up my whole week.

Short story behind the picture?? And it goes a little something like this...

Madison's car dies.

Boy jumps Madison's car.

Car doesn't start.

Process continues for 30 minutes.

Engine begins convulsion.... not good.

Madison thinks she might have to buy a new car.

Car gets towed by AAA.

Car is taken to Auto shop.

Fuses are blown.

Why?

Boy who jumped car crossed the cables.

Moral of the story?? --RED GOES WITH RED:: BLACK GOES WITH BLACK--

Gypsy Love

2010-10-31T20:15:00.001-07:00

Here are a few of the glorious pictures from the ever famous HOWL. Best year of the HOWL by far... only made great by the Gypsy Clan. love them all.

the bingle bangle crew

gypsy clan leaders

fellow sister gypsy

favorite friendships!

My California Adventure

2010-10-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

Well.. all I have to say is, SUCCESS.

We started out trip on Wednesday. Bradley, Braden, and myself drove to St. George and spent the night with our dear friend Jules. Early Thursday morning we hit the road and headed for Los Angeles.

As we rolled into LA I got immensely excited! (me?? excited? go figure.) The three amigos stayed with Brad's aunt and uncle in the most beautiful home... I was in heaven. Here is a quick rundown of LA!!!

Night 1: Shopping at Nordstrom inArcadia= satisfying. Shopping was followed by downtown Hollywood= slightly disappointing.
Day 2: Disneyland and California Adventure= happiness and enjoyment.
Night 2: Free tickets for the LA Kings game...11th row= AMAZING
Day 3: Shopping in Newport at Fashion Island= spectacularly fabulous. ( I may or may not have induldged with a couple of pairs of new heals..so it is fine.)
Night 3: Driving to Las Vegas for dinner and friends= exciting! Then driving back to St. George and staying up until 4am chatting away= insightful and eye opening
Day 4: Driving back to SLC and eating at In and Out for the 3rd time in 4 days= disgusting

And that concluded the first trip to California for Miss Madison Kate. General thoughts a feelings:

:: I LOVED IT! I would move to Cali in a heart beat... well minus a few things. One being clean air... but hey, beggers can't be choosers. Also, I truly despise traffic.. and they take the cake on that one. That's it. L.O.V.E. was created this weekend.::

On a limb...

2010-10-13T17:30:00.000-07:00

Well.. the not so spontaneous, very much so cautious me made one heck of a spur of the moment decision today...

We have Fall Break this weekend ( a whole extra day)

My original plan was to go with one of my top 5, Natalie Sargent, to Provo to visit our friends Quincy and Sara. I was so stoked. I mean it is just Provo, but we were going to make it a BOMB trip.

But then last night had to go and stir everything up! I was hanging with the ever famous duo of Brad and Braden and they throw this idea out to me " COME TO CALI WITH US TOMORROW!"

So.. after much thinking, pondering, polling, and fretting... I chose to go! I am sooooo excited.

1) I have never been to Cali.

2) We are going to Disney Land.. ( I'm a Disney Worlder)

3) We are going to the LA Temple!

4) We are going to the freaking BEACH... end of story. I get to leave the arctic of Logan for the warmth of Cali!

So, I went out on a limb this time and am taking chances and making memories! It will be a great trip!

--Nothing Comes Close To The Golden Coast-- (so Katy Perry says..)

CAUTION

2010-10-06T14:10:00.000-07:00

Excitement +

Friends at the campfire +

Light up frisbee =

Evidence

Note to self: Look before you run... in the dark... at a flying object. You might just get this stripe on your face and have people as questions like...

1) "Did you draw on your face with eyeliner?"

2) "Do you have chocolate on your face?"

My Answer:

Nope... don't even worry about it... just got hit in the face with a frisbee.

the end.

All in Balance

2010-09-16T19:50:00.000-07:00

I don't know about yall, but I feel the need for change.

WHY?

I have no idea. What change needs to be made? It is my attitude? My outlook on life? My location? Who knows..

I went and watched this movie when I thought all was taking a quick turn for the worse.

Never in my life had I connected so much with a motion picture. I identified so many familiar and new emotions and I was on the verge of emotional overload.

I began searching for something different. I needed balance in my life. This semester I took on entirely too much (which is entirely my fault) --I have this problem with telling people 'no' --

Suddenly I had a strong desire to travel the world, to be a better person, and to find happiness in all that I do.

I made an appointment with the Study Abroad office, I explored new schools. All to find that I need to make the most out of the situations that I am currently in and learn to be happy with what I have.

There is balance to all things. And there is happiness in balance.

Words... Use Them Wisely

2010-09-07T17:44:00.001-07:00

What are words? What do they mean? Who decided what each word describes or refers to?

This semester I am taking a course called Language, Thought, and Action. Class has only been held 2 times and yet, I find myself completely enthralled in its content. It gives me an entirely new outlook on situations and new approaches for everyday occurrences.

We discuss how the words we choose to use, whether they be symbols or signs, will without a doubt have an effect on someone or something.

The more I think about this concept, the more I realize that I must choose my words more carefully.

We read scholarly articles. We discuss them. We dissect them. We divulge into ourselves. We change our Language, Thought, and Action.

Here is an expert from an article I read today. It truly puts things into perspective for me.

I must be more aware of the things I say, how my actions effect others, and how my words create the person I am or will become.

"That words are powerful may seem obvious, but the fact is that most of us, most of the time, use them lightly. We choose our clothes more carefully then we choose our words, though what we say about and to others can define them indelibly."

-Words That Hurt, Words That Heal: Joseph Telushkin

Typical Situation

2010-08-30T21:53:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day of the new fall semester here at Utah State University.

::Thoughts of the day::

Too cold here.

Too many freshman.

I love my friends, old and new.

Class is class.

Rain sucks.

So to look around on the first day of school goes a little something like this.

-The typical freshman girl-

+ White shorts, bright colored V-neck t-shirt, big hair, ballet flats.

-The typical freshman boy-

+ Cargo shorts, pink Hollister polo: collar popped: white Kswiss tennis shoes.

Basically I hate to even think that I was ever a freshman. Now that I am a //JUNIOR// in college and look down on the freshman in some aspects of life, I don't like the thought of me being one back in the day. Well.... we live, we learn, and then we get love.

Happy First Day of School.

Today is the Day!

2010-08-25T09:07:00.000-07:00

Today is the day I get to see my best friend..

Her name is Natalie Adel...

Well actually just Natalie..

But I dubbed her a middle name...

I haven't seen her in 9 months....

(That's a pregnancy for those of you who didn't know..)

Must Haves

2010-08-19T11:32:00.000-07:00

Well for the last 2 weeks I have been almost completely absent from not only the blogging world, but from the world of modern conveniences. And I must admit.... I don't like not having those amenities....

Let me catch yall up on a few things....

Must haves for utter and complete happiness.

Family

Badlands National Park

Scenery

Middle of nowhere South Dakota....

It was beautiful

Friends

Dearest Kynz

Ugly Cars

We got in nasty wreck...

and got an even nastier car...

Animals

Horseback riding in the mountains

I love nothing more.

Rainbows

Yellowstone National Park

Somewhere Over the Rainbow

Music

Jack Johnson Concert

Thanks to

"Mike-We-Like"

Genius At Work

2010-08-06T22:12:00.000-07:00

This story is just TOO priceless to not post....

Today, we arrive in Rapid City, SD. It is quite the upgrade from last night in Murdo, SD.... Never heard of it? Ya, not surprised. Google it. You might get a search result..

We (my mom, Jackson and Miles--the nephews-- and I) walk into the hotel room, a rather nice one, and Boy 1 has to make a deposit in the bathroom.

Boy 2 waits patiently on the bed. As boy 1 finished his business he comes out to watch tv. Fine, right? Not so much. --Little side note, he forgot to wash his hands--

Boy 2 is repulsed and wants to wash off the clicker. Fine, right? Not so much.

We then hear the water running in the bathroom. He decided that it would be a really good idea to put the clicker IN THE SINK to wash it off. Oops.... Broken clicker. haha

Most genius child award goes to....... Boy 2!!

Here's To You...

2010-08-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Fort Smith,

This is why I'll miss you.

* My mom

* Daisy

(these 2 are a given)

1) my front lawn, looking as perfect and as picturesque as the 18th green at the country club.

2) my children (not biological of course)

3) my martha

4) the drive from my house to Cliff Dr.

5) Pizza Parlour

6) Panera

7) Chick-fil-a

8) skipping church

9) the blistering heat (i will never abandon you for the cold long term)

10) shopping

Until Christmas...

Passing By

2010-08-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

As I sat in the allergy clinic this morning with Emily and Lauren, I do believe I heard the funniest thing ever.

Emily gives a heavy sigh. I asked her what was the matter and this was her response.

"I just feel like my life is passing by so quickly."

Although I can't disagree with this statement, we must all remember that this came from the mouth of a 6 year old. I couldn't contain my laughter. That then resulted in Emily crying for 1o minutes because "I made her look like the biggest jerk ever." --Her exact words--

Gotta love a typical monday.

Get Some Life...

2010-07-26T20:56:00.000-07:00

I just need to vent momentarily..

I cannot begin to express how STUPID I think it is when people make a facebook status update, post it, and the push the like button..... on their own post.

OBVIOUSLY YOU LIKED IT.... or most likely you wouldn't have posted it in the first place....

Perfect Shopping...

2010-07-25T19:12:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, it was probably the best thing ever to walk into Nordstrom, take a gander around, and then see a familiar face. Personal shopper at Nord???? YES PLEASE.

Dear ol' Beth Clem recognized me, remembered everything I bought last summer and then proceeded to put together outfits and helped me try on clothes. It was perfect.

Successful day.

Family Bonding Time

2010-07-22T12:46:00.000-07:00

This past week I got to spend some time with my cousin Rachel and her kiddos M (Mackenzie) and Jett Puff (Meredith). We had so much fun! Rachel is my only girl cousin, so needless to say, we always have plenty to talk about and plenty of things to do! I Love Her! Such a good little visit!

M and Jett Puff with the puppy at Old Navy!

At Swimming lessons, Jett Puff decided she needed to clean everything! She started with the chair and then moved on to the...

fence... obviously. Then it was the...

ground. So cute!

Have your cake, and eat it too!

2010-07-17T07:27:00.000-07:00

Well I got this new cooking magazine one day and I decided that I would try a new dessert each week! (we will see how that pans out) But this is dessert number one! LOVED IT!!

It isn't the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen. I had never made a layered cake before. But I think it was a success for the most part! But it tasted freaking good so... ya.

Here is too the 3-layered orange cream cake!

Let's Take a Moment...

2010-07-14T09:20:00.001-07:00

I would like to say a few words regarding my true and deep love for the one and only Harry Potter. May I please just say how much I thoroughly enjoy being captivated and swept away into a magical world that feels more real that my own life at some times... Whew. Glad I could get that off my chest.

I mean I'm not like one of those freaks that dress up like Harry or anything...... but I do love him and his world.

Three Cheers for J. K. Rowling.

Hip Hip Hooray!

Hip Hip Hooray!!

Hip Hip Hooray!!!

I can't wait for November!!!!!

Take It Away.... PLEASE

2010-07-12T15:12:00.000-07:00

I just may projectile vomit onto the tv screen if I see a particular Sonic commercial again. Lucky for yall, I can't find it on the internet, but it is featuring this....

If that isn't truly repulsive... then I don't know what is. Not only is the commercial Barf Worthy.. listen to the nutrition facts to this death wish of a meal! Yep, I think I just puked... a lot.

Weight (g)299

Chol (mg)110

Vit A17%

Calories810

Sodium (mg)1798

Vit C2%

Fat Cals477

Carbs (g)56

Calcium26%

Total Fat (g)52.9

Fiber (g)3

Iron19%

Sat. Fat (g)22

My Mamaw

2010-07-09T18:35:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my dear ol' Mamaw today! She is 89! Without her life would simply not be the same. She is a woman of few words. She is a woman of courage. She is a woman of love. She is a woman of strength. And she is a woman of loving to gossip... usually on accident =) And for all these things, I Love Her!!

My great aunt Bunny, me, and Mamaw

When In Doubt--

2010-07-08T17:02:00.000-07:00

I noticed recently that my diet was lacking in a few key ingredients... oh lets just call them essential nutrients? Ya, probably not a good idea. So, I have now resorted to this....

Meet the freaking Bedrocks. Yep, the gangs all here!

Good or Bad?

2010-07-07T20:37:00.001-07:00

Call me crazy, call me naive, call me stupid, but I am a firm believer in the statement that follows.

--There are no bad people, only bad decisions.--

Thats my story, and I'm stickin' to it.

Thank You

2010-07-04T20:57:00.000-07:00

Thank You.

My One and Only Dream Job

2010-07-04T20:43:00.000-07:00

For those of you who don't know me one-ioda... If I could choose any profession above all else and be more content than words can describe, it would be at Sea World. (That is really me running along that class tank... I shaved my head) I don't know why I have such a fasination with sea creatures, but ever since I was little I have wanted to be a whale trainer more than anything! I would take that hands down over a doctor, a lawyer, or heck even a TV star... now that's sayin somethin...

Me, the whales, and the water. Perfect.

This past week I had the lovely chance of visiting my home away from home with the most majestic creatures. Some of those "creatures" tended to be my relatives.. only I wouldn't quite describe them as majestic.... maybe.... well, we won't go there.

Missin' Out

2010-06-29T14:15:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have never ventured to the dear ol' south... you are not only missing out on entertainment, but also simply life changing experiences.

--Let me explain--

This morning at 11:30 am, my mother and I went to Wal-Mart (aka hell-hole of the world) We left after picking up a few items. As we drove home the car turned into Hardee's. And for those of you who don't have a Hardee's, well... you should probably keep it that way. I always get on my mom because she is heavily addicted to Diet coke. We are talking about a consumption rate at about 80 oz. od DC daily... problem? Possibly. She swears up and down that she didn't turn in to get a coke, that the car is just programed to know what she needs and went there by itself! ya... right.

Pulling up to order her usual, we are greeted by a "Welcome to Hardee's, would you like to try a... (followed by whatever the special of the day is)" Today it was a hamlkjsndfnsdfjksd (aka indecipherable word) chicken tender?" My mom didn't respond to the woman merely because she had no earthly clue what she uttered.

She ordered her coke. We pulled up to the window and right before we got there I said "Mom, did she offer you a hamburger chicken tender?" Mom says "I honestly have no idea." Well she proceeds to ask the woman if that is what she offered us. The attendant responds "Haha, no I said would you like a handkfasdljfldskjflksdjn chicken tender!" Still didn't get it.

We finally figure out that she offered a HAND BREADED CHICKEN TENDER... not a hamburger chicken tender. Bless her heart.. this communication error was most likely due to the lack of teeth the woman had... Never the less we got my mom's coke.. and that is all. that. matters.

Bring Out The Toys

2010-06-21T18:10:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took all the children to see Toy Story 3. What a fabulous movie!! And for those of you who know me... you know what a bleeding heart/emotional wreck/ freak/ uncontrollable tear machine I am. I may or may not have cried ( I'll let yall decide )

I love my children. Well.. they aren't mine but they might as well be. I have people ask me daily how old they are and how old I am... seriously folks. I didn't start conceiving when I was 10...

They highlight of the movie was watching and listening to Miles. He had never been to a 3D movie and the whole time was trying to reach out and touch everything. So cute. BUT he also is quite the little singer. And believe it or not he has a good voice. And at the beginning of the movie I hear him just a-singin' to himself "You've got a friend in me, you've got a friend in me." So great. I love all my children, even though they give me a dang good run for my money.

I Changed The Name.

2010-06-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today, as we all know is Father's Day. And as much as I would love for this to be a special holiday in my life, I can't say that it is. It is more of a day full of sadness and painful memories, but I must always remember the people who have been in my life to be Father Figures.

So today I am changing the name of the day to Men's Day. Yep. I am.

Here is to all the men who have had the largest and greatest impact in my life. Here's to my best friends dad who would take me on vacation with them , to my next door neighbor who mowed our lawn, to my Papaw who gave all he had to make sure we made it, to my "godfather" who has provided for me that past 14 years, to my brothers who have been a rock solid foundation throughout life despite pitfalls and times of breaking down, to my mother (even though she isn't a man) who has played every role in the script to keep our family together.

I would like to thank my nephews. It may seem strange but they sometimes show a greater example of fatherhoo

d than the actual parents who surround them.

-Last night my 8 year old nephew saw my mom about to mow the yard and I could see the light in his eyes and he said " Granny, let me mow the yard for you. I like to do it." In his 8 years of life he has learned many important lessons, and it shows through and through. He proceeded to take the lawn mower (which is about twice his size) and meticulously cut the grass. He did a great job. He knew that she shouldn't be doing what is perceived as a "man's job" and wouldn't have it.

As difficult of a holiday as this is for me anyway, this year I have a new perspective. Since my nephews are here with us, I get to see them react to the feelings and emotions that people express about their fathers. Their own father situation is identical to mine and it breaks my heart. I see them retaliate at times and break down at others due to the absence of their dad. I now know how hard it was for the others in my family to see me at that age and it is truly life changing.

Thank you men of the world who do all that you can to show love and kindness to those around you.

Babysitters aka Spawns of Satan

2010-06-17T19:34:00.000-07:00

So today was a lovely day at work. For those of you who don't know... I have the greatest most awesome job in the world. I am a nanny for 2 precious little angels. And sometimes 2 1/2. (Jack lives about an hour away and comes to visit a couple times a week.) and angels describes them perfectly.... well most of the time.

Laruen- 9 years old.

Emily- 6 years old.

Jack- 2 years old.

We started off the day with breakfast. Then it was piano time so Lauren and I headed to her house to play for 3o minutes. After piano, it was time to read. The girls have to read for 30 minutes a day so today Emily and I read Dr. Seuss's "Are You My Mother?" 40 pages later, Emily said her voice was tired so could I please finish it. So cute.

Alvin and the Chipmunks was the feature film today (we watch a lot of movies.) Lunch time came and then the best part of the day was here.... SWIMMING. We swimm every day.

Sometimes Emily gets nervous in the water and always wants to come in the deep end but just can't do it, which is fine! Well she really wanted to today. I told her it was up to her and that we would love for her to join us in the deep-end. I then got the following response for no staying the in shallow end with her.

E: "I don't like you Madison."

M: "Okay."

E: "I want a new babysitter."

M: "Okay."

E: "WHY ARE YOU ONLY SAYING OKAY!!!!"

It was rather humorous. She gets riled up so easily and it was hilarious! We then continued our swim day and had several interesting conversations. They went from skinny dipping (emily doesn't like to wear cloths and wanted to strip and swim) to why we get tan lines, and then to what the "brown things" on your boobies were.

Today was full of humor, laughter, screaming, and memories.

Words of Wisdom

2010-06-15T19:36:00.001-07:00

My aunt came by my house today. Let's keep in mind that I only see her about every 10 months... perhaps longer. As she was leaving the house and putting my Mamaw's things into the trunk (or trying) she spoke some very inspiring words.

Mamaw's stuff wasn't fitting in the trunk. This was due to the massive amount of shopping bags that were currently inhabiting the space. She gave a perplexed look and a comment was spouted off by my uncle "That might fit if you didn't shop so much" ( in a very loving voice of course)

She then uttered quite possibly the most important phrase I have ever or will ever hear in my life.

"What? It's not my fault I like to help out the economy!"

LOVE IT!!!

I will now use that as my opposing arguement when people tell me I shop too much. I live to shop and I shop to live. What can I say... I have a problem. But it is a problem I LOVE HAVING!!!

These are my confessions.....

2010-06-13T22:23:00.000-07:00

Ok. as much as I truly dread to make this post, I must.

It all happened 3 days ago. I blame is partly on the sloughing of my endometrial lining. (pardon me if any males may be reading this post.)

I ate chocolate. 4 times. In one day. And I liked it. What is going on here?!

And then tonight... I had a cupcake. And this was no ordinary cupcake. This was a red velvet cupcake. ( which i had never eaten.) But we put chocolate frosting on them. And I didn't just stop at one. I accidentally ate 4. Only tonight couldn't be blamed on anything except my pure and growing love for chocolate.

There. I said it.

This.... is my confession. I like chocolate. It hasn't grown to a love yet, but definitely a like.

Believing is Seeing

2010-06-10T19:07:00.000-07:00

Tonight, as I sat on the beach to watch the sunset, I saw something much greater than a huge star drifting from my sight. Of course, the colors were magnificently painted across the sky, but it was the man standing beneath the splash of color that held my gaze.

I watched him and his wife slowly cross the boardwalk to the waters edge. I assume they were approaching their late 60s and they appeared to be absorbing the beauty of the evening. The closer I observed I noticed he was wearing a pair of dark sunglasses. She was tenderly hold his hand and then I saw his walking stick. He was blind.

The couple stood in the crashing waves, staring into the sunset. It was obvious they were in love. She was so gentle with them. She offered her shoulder to steady his balance and they stood with their fingers laced between one another.

I was truly amazed at this man. He couldn't even see the very thing that he was there to see. but still, somehow, I could tell that he knew it was there.

I couldn't help but wonder what my life would be life if I were to lose one of my major senses. What if I could never see the ocean again? Or the pure beauty of a sunset? What if?

This man was an example to me, even though he doesn't know it. I am so grateful for the huge blessings that I sometimes forget about. He proved tonight that seeing isn't believing, believing is seeing. He couldn't see the breaking waves, the blueness of the water, the sunset, or even the seaweed that was taking over the water, but somehow he believed it was all there. And how lucky he is to have a loving wife to let him experience the wonderful things of life!

Perfection in Paradise

2010-06-08T20:16:00.000-07:00

So basically today was the most perfect day. Here is a quick rundown.....

[5:00 am] rise and shine, it's fishin' time!

-Pop pop and I went down to the brand new pier in Navarre to do some fishing

[10:00 am] come back to the beach house and head out to the water

-The water was absolutely PERFECT today. Crystal clear for a good 50 yards outs. Now creatures, no nothing. And let us all keep in mind that Madison never, ever, ever, ever gets in the water at the beach. So this was a big deal.

[11:45 am] Lunch

-Cheese dip and chips.... my weakness and favorite.

[12:15 pm] Nap and iPod

-Took a little snooze on the deck in the beautiful sun.

[1:30 pm] Nap on couch

-The sun got a little too blistering so I moved my nap inside.

[3:00 pm] Boogie

-No... unfortunately this isn't dancing time... rather BOOGIE BOARDS BABY!

[5:00 pm] Reading

-I lost myself in my book on the deck, overlooking the beach. ( although I am enjoying my book, I can't get Miley Cyrus out of my mind... she kind of ruined the Last Song for me)

[6:45 pm] Run

-Running at the beach. Now that is something that makes running enjoyable.

[8:00 pm] Crabs

-The nightly ritual of crabbing on the beach. Full of squeeling children and enthusiastic adults!

Now I am about to hit the hay, from an all out perfect day. Thank you Florida, thank you.

Looks Like We Made It

2010-06-05T13:56:00.000-07:00

Well yesterday was a bitter sweet day. It marked the 14th year of me and my mom and my siblings being on our own. Why bitter sweet you might wonder.... well. Although growing up without a 'man-of-the-house' had been one of the most difficult times of mine and my families life, it has shown us things about ourselves that we would have not learned otherwise. It has taught me that no matter what, if you put hard work, faith, love, and hope into something, you will win. It has taught me how to care for others in ways I never thought imaginable. It has taught me that people are a lot stronger than they think. It has shown me the mercy of the Lord. It has shown me the strength of loved ones. It has shown me to myself.

Although I would never desire to go through this again

in my lifetime, I have learned life lessons that are irreplaceable.

The last, and most important thing that this has taught me is, Sometimes the best example is the one not set. We may look around us and see the good and the bad things, but it is up to us to choose the example we follow, even if it is the one not seen.

Thank you to everyone who has had part in helping my family through the years. You will never know how much you mean to us!

My Family in 1992

My Family Now