our love story.

Alright, here's the story of how we met and the proposal (:

Caution: it's adorable.

Jay and I met the second semester of my freshman year of high school.  We didn't talk a ton but I thought he was hilarious and nice.  We danced with each other at some church dances over the summer but nothing crazy.  At the beginning of my sophomore year we ended up being in the same seminary class again.  We had some common friends and began to hang out almost every day.  We formed a singing group called Quatro with some buddies.  We sang in various wards and at church Christmas parties.  We became best friends.  On Valentine's Day he told me he liked me (which is a whole other hilarious story).  I wasn't 16 so I didn't want to tell him I liked him as well.  He ended up asking me to prom at the end of the year.  It was a week after my birthday.  We ended up holding hands and as the awkward kids we were, we slow danced to every song that night (even rap).  We had our first kiss about a month later at the Quercus Rober tree on the greenbelt behind his house.  It has been history ever since.  We are the best of friends and talk to each other about absolutely everything.  I love him.
He left for his mission on October 6, 2010.  We are so grateful for the mission.  We already feel it blessing our lives and we have both grown so much over the past two years.  He came home on Wednesday October 10, 2012.  I got a call from him in the airport (that cost me $35, I think it was well worth it!)  We immediately hit it off again.  We had all the same jokes and chemistry.  I got to see him the following Saturday night.  It was perfect and we both knew it.  He came to Rexburg the next weekend and we had a blast!  We went ring shopping and found the perfect ring.  He kept telling me he didn't have enough money for it yet.
I went home this weekend with some roommates.  We went to Flying M on Saturday morning.  Flying M is Jay and I's favorite spot to hang out.  We went there for our first date (before prom).  It has a lot of good memories.  We all ordered drinks and sat down.  Then an employee came out with a brown box.  He said "Melissa, we have a complimentary peanut butter bar for you."  I was totally confused.  Jay and I always get peanut butter bars.  At the time I just thought that my mom bought it for me to be nice because she knows that we like them.  I put the box down without even looking in it.  I continued taking funny pictures with my friends.  Then my mom asked me to open the box.  Inside was an adorable note from Jay.  It ended with "I want to spend the rest of my life with you..."  Then I got a text from Jay.  He said "Hey, can you meet me at the popcorn machine."  I walked over to the popcorn machine, totally in shock of what was happening.  He came down the staircase near the popcorn machine with a dozen beautiful peach roses.  Then before I could think he was down on one knee asking to marry me.  I said YES!  It was amazing.  I was definitely surprised and totally in love.  It was a wonderful day.
I'm so excited.  Jay is my best friend.  He is the best guy I've ever met.  He is so kind and obedient.  He is on fire with the gospel and he makes me laugh.  He is gentle and respectful and we have so many similar views. I can't wait to marry him on December 28th of this year.
Hope to see you there!

(:

Conference Weekend

my oh my!

it has been a marvelous weekend thus far (:

on friday night my roommates sat around watched cheesy wedding shows on TLC.  always good girl bonding time.  then we went to a hot tub near by.  we did personality tests which were super super fun!  haha.  then we made homemade hot chocolate, re-organized our fridge, and cleaned our kitchen.
yesterday morning raschelle and I woke up early and picked up bountiful baskets.  we got tons of berries and spinach and potatoes.  so much good stuff!  oh!  and our favorite bread in the world.  then we went back to bed.  an hour or so later we woke up and got ready to go.  with sweats, sweaters, and blankets we headed to "R" mountain.  we picked up our FHE brother and some snacks along the way.  we hiked up the mountain and found a little piece of ground towards the top that was flat with a beautiful view.  we pulled out the snacks and blankets and made ourselves comfortable.  we got out my IPOD and some speakers and tuned to BYUI radio to listen to the first session of General Conference.  it was freezing cold...like 27 degrees cold, but we loved every minute of it.  the whole time we hoped that they would sing "High On the Mountain Top."  no such luck!  haha.

Conference was inspiring!  the mission age being lowered was definitely a highlight!  young men can now serve at age 18 and young women at age 19.  This is huge.  I can feel the blessings of this announcement.  Missionary work is going to increase in preparation for the second coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  What a blessing!  This means that my brother will be heading out fairly soon.  It is crazy but I am so excited for the blessings this will bring to my family and to those who hear the message of the restored gospel and come to know their Savior.  This gospel is brilliant.  I'm excited to see the fruit of these labors.
After the session of conference we explored the top of the mountain and then hiked back down.  We came home and ate lunch.  Then the second session started shortly after! (:  Woo hoo!  The first talk was great.  And then I think the late night, early morning, and long hike caught up to me and I totally fell asleep for the rest of the session.  Don't worry!  I listened to all the talks this morning!  They were great!  After conference my roommates and I were not feeling productive enough to do homework so we headed into Idaho Falls.  We windowed shopped at the mall for a little while and then headed to Winco.  We got our 2 weeks worth of groceries.  It was very fun!  We were under budget again too!  Woohoo!  Then we headed back.  On the drive home we talked about holiday traditions.  I love the holidays!  I'm so excited it is finally fall!  Mmm.  I love it.  The smells, the sights, the traditions, the family, the friends, the overall happiness.  Good stuff!
Today is another two whole sessions of General Conference.  The cinnamon rolls are rising and I am just excited.  I love this weekend of relaxation and inspiration.  If you don't know what General Conference even is let me know!  It is a time for our church leaders to instruct us on how to become more Christlike.  Who doesn't want to know how to do that?  Tune into BYU TV or search for it on your local channels.  You can also find stream it live from lds.org.  You won't regret it!  I promise. Tune on in! (:  

Today is going to be a good day! (:

I Was Blind But Now I See.

I know I know, it's been awhile.  Yet, here I am to tell you about a life changing experience I had today.

I am currently taking a 7:45 educational philosophy class.  So far I have really enjoyed it.  Right now the education department of BYU-I is looking to hire a new staff member.  My class was chosen to be the audience of the candidates observed lecture.  Their topic was "How can we follow the Savior to become master teachers?"  Pretty legit right?  I think so.  Anyways, the second candidate came to our class today.  He is a short man with wispy blonde hair.  For all you Harry Potter fans, just imgaine Professor Flitwik and Professor Lockheart combined!  He was a brilliant teacher and the lecture went well in my opinion.  But nothing struck me as life altering until he introduced his lovely wife.  His wife is blind and has been since birth.  She has a degree in music composition.  Let's just stop there for a second.  Seriously, music composition??  She is blind.  She still had to master all of the concepts of music theory, aural skills, scoring, and arranging that I currently have to, but she can't use her eyes.  That's incredible.  Anyways, towards the end of the lesson, Mr. Elliot's wife played us a song that she had written.  As she accompanied herself on the piano, I struggled to hold back my tears.  First off, the music was brilliant.  It was simple but emotional.  The lyrics were beautiful beyond belief.  She sang from the heart.  She sang about how she has never seen the photographs of the ones she has loved and lost.  She has never seen the smiles on her children's faces.  She has never seen the sunrise from a mountain top.  And yet...she can see.  Through her faith in Christ she testified of how she knows that she is loved and will be able to see again.

I felt so guilty.  How often do I, as an insecure girl, sit and criticize my body?  I am always dissatisfied.  It seems easy to always find something about myself to despise.  Why?  Satan does not have a body.  He wants us to find every reason to hate and defile it that we possibly can.

Today...I found exactly the opposite.  I found a new sense of gratitude that I have never experienced.  I love my body.  I love that I can walk with ease.  I have complete control over my emotions and muscles.  I can see.  I can hear.  Why do I take those things for granted so often?  I am so blessed.  Honestly,  I cannot explain how deeply grateful I am for all of my blessings that come from my functioning body.  It is a wonder to me.  The human body is so incredible.  May we all take time to cultivate an innate gratitude for this truly glorious gift we have been given.  Hopefully some of you don't have to be struck into humility in order to realize the splendor we have before our eyes.

Today I will take a little extra time to truly look around me.  To see the colors, the light, the dark, and all the beauty the world has to offer.

Friends

Happy August 5th!

There are about a million holidays today!  Alright...only 6 but that is fairly close to a million right? Anyways,  there are two I would like to celebrate.

Friendship Day

I'm gonna give a quick shout out to all my friends.  If you are not on here it doesn't mean I don't love you, but I do have to sleep at some point this evening.  Ha.   In no particular order...

Lexi Balling (Peterson)
My second roommate.  What a blessing!  She is hilarious and beautiful.  She made my life so much happier.  We had plenty of adventures and inside jokes.  She helped me cook every night and had so many good talks with me.  She taught me so much and was such an example of strength.  Although she is off and married now I will never forget the friendship she offered me.  Love you!

Madi Jeanfreau.
This girl is an inspiration.  She is dedicated and supportive.  She makes me so happy.  She was my roommate for my fourth semester of college and she helped me through many a bad days.  She is currently in Oregon and I miss her oh-so-much.  Seriously though,  she is hilarious, talented, and sensitive.  I love her to death.  That is not a death threat fyi.

Courtney Lyn Cook
Gorgeous.  Seriously,  this girl is a catch.  She just tried out for American Idol and I am honestly surprised that she did not make it.  She has the voice of an angel.  Truly.  It's brilliant.  I'm jealous. She is funny and super caring.  I'm so glad I met her this past semester.

Tyler Carlisle
My workout buddy until I sprained my ankle.  He is incredibly talented and he says it like it is.  He is hilarious and always up for an adventure.  Thanks for being such a good friend.

Jake Fowkes
Funny.  He and I can find things to laugh about.  He is also very honest and supportive.  He has an incredible voice and I'm so grateful we became friends this past semester.  Thanks Buddy!

Raschelle Goodman
There is no end to the good things I can say about this girl.  She is smart, kind, sensitive, spiritual, healthy, talented, BEAUTIFUL, and a wonderful friend.  She always makes me smile and laugh.  She plays piano so passionately.  She is social.  She is a brilliant cook.  She can tell when you are not ok and helps to make it better.  She has a rock solid testimony and she inspires me everyday.  Honestly, there is going to be a very lucky man out there someday.

Marisol Cisneros
We've been friends since who knows when.  She is the strongest person I have ever met.  She is constantly setting an example for me.  She is honest and adventurous.  She is so patient.  She is funny and spunky.  I love her style and confidence.  She helps me stay sane and listens to my rambling on car rides to church.  She is one of my biggest supporters and I can't wait to see her come Thanksgiving.

Jay Valle
Last but certainly not least.  This guy is the funniest person I think I have ever met.  He is incredibly talented and truly enjoys the simple things in life.  He is adventurous and caring.  He is also super respectful and obedient but loves to have a good time.  He is a wonderful example to me.  I get to see him in 2 months and I am terribly excited.  What a reunion it shall be!  Also...it's his birthday in T minus 4 days.  Happy Birthday Best Friend!

Wow.  I have been blessed with some wonderful friends.  Truly.  I can't express the gratitude for the friends that probably use every last drop of patience they have with me.  I am so blessed to be surrounded by supportive and loving friends.  Thanks.  You are all huge blessings in my life and I only hope I can live to be the same for you.

It is also Sister's Day!

Here is a shout out to my little sister Kimberly!

Kim is beautiful.  She is petite and has flaming red hair.  She has a fiery personality and she is so curious.  She makes me laugh and is so tender and kind.  She is very musical and a really good big sister to our brother Logan.  I love to watch her grow and I am eternally grateful that she came in my life and I wasn't stuck with a house full of crazy brothers.

(:

Tomorrow's Holidays are:
Wiggle Your Toes Day
National Fresh Breath Day

National Mustard Day

I'm not really sure what day National Mustard Day is...either today or yesterday.  But either way I celebrated it early.  I made a wonderful dinner that you all NEED to try.  Seriously,  before you die you need to eat this. I have made it four times: twice for friends and twice for family and both times it has been devoured.  It is incredible.  Honestly.  So we'll get right to it.

Pretzel Crusted Chicken with Mustard Sauce

mmm.  Even the name makes my mouth water!

You can find the recipe here on the famous Rachel Ray's website.
http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/food/recipes/pretzel-crusted-chicken-breasts-with-cheddar-mustard-sauce/

Seriously,  it is brilliant, amazing, spectacular, wonderful, delicious, etc.

Try it.  You won't be sorry!

F.B.D.

Well, it's been awhile.  Let's face it, I'm just not a very dedicated person when it comes to blog writing, but I'm doing my best.  I have a couple things on my mind that may or may not be of interest to anyone else, but here we go.

F is for food.  

I really do love food, a lot.  Last night I went to Applebees with the siblings and it was SO good.  I had some spinach artichoke dip and some penne past with spinach, seasoned chicken, and tomatoes.  MMM.  It was wonderful.  I also had this scrumptious cupcake last week (on Milk Chocolate Day mind you!)  I have had some delicious stir fry this week (a favorite) and some divine cantaloupe (not in the same meal).  I love me some good food.  

B is for blessed.  

I am truly blessed.  I have been somewhat subconsciously stressed (oooh! look at the alliteration!) about my financial situation this coming year.  This week my federal financial aid finally came through and it is good news!  I also have be able to find some small jobs to earn a little bit of extra cash.  I know that when I trust the Lord things work out.  I am slowly learning to eliminate stress and just put my trust in Him.  Obviously I have to do my part but He always provides for His children.  We must just trust (oh man I'm on a roll!  look at that assonance/consonance!)  His timing.  I love it.  

D is for disgusted.  

Here comes a little rant.  If you don't like those you don't have to read.  I am just extremely disgusted with this world currently. I will share some reasons to explain.  #1 My mother and I were trying to rent a movie a few weeks ago.  As we browsed the redbox selections everything was either gory, jam packed with killing, full of demons and devils, or contained raunchy scenes.  Is that really all that we find entertaining now-a-days?  What happened to roadrunners that only said "Meep" and Lizzie McGuire?   Wow.  That's all I can say.  #2 I turned on So You Think You Can Dance on Wednesday night.  I LOVE this show.  I've always wanted to be a dancer and just love to watch these talented people dance their little hearts out.  Then I saw just a part of one of the first dances.  It was a character piece claiming to show everyone's "Dream Dentist Visit."  There was a nerdy guy who had a sexy dentist who was trying to seduce him or something.  Let me tell you something...this is not my "Dream Dentist Visit."  My idea of a "dream dentist visit"  is where the Dentist comes in and says, "My Melissa!  You have beautiful teeth!  I can tell you have been brushing and flossing daily!  You have no cavities!  Now take this coupon and get yourself some Cold Stone ice cream!"  Doesn't that sound great?  I think so too, but perhaps I am just abnormal.  #3 Last but not least, I hate (and no I don't mean strongly dislike) how people are treated differently.  Don't get me wrong!  I absolutely DO NOT proclaim to be perfect at treating everyone with kindness, but no one should be looked down on just because of what they wear, what they look like, where they live, or how much money they make.  We are people, you know, living breathing human beings.  Everyone should be treated as such. 

Alright, I'm officially off the soap box.  I'm really not one to preach on those but this cause seemed worthy to me.  This life truly is so good.  I hope that each of you feel that way.  My life is not near perfect but I try to see all of the blessing that are there, because there are so very many.  

Today's Holiday is:  

National Watermelon Day

Tomorrow's Holidays are:

National Chocolate Chip Day

National Mustard Day 

(stay tuned for my good plans for tomorrow!)

(:

27.

Well hello!

Yesterday was a great day.  It was National Talk in an Elevator Day, Olympics Opening Ceremony and much more.

First off, I went to lunch with Marisol.  We started this tradition last year.  We try to go to a new (ish)/locally owned restaurant with good food right before she leaves for school.  Last year we went to the oh so good Mona Lisa (which is now closed...boo!)  This year we went downtown and tried Merr's Family Restaurant!  MMMM.  It was delish.  We each had a turkey BLT with avocados and a side of fries.  Then we shared something called "Chocolate Overload."  Yeah...it was a good thing we shared.  That was heaven but definitely an overload.  To get to the restaurant we took an elevator so that we could celebrate National Talk in an Elevator.  It was fun!

Excuse the crappy quality of my cell phone camera.  From there I headed home and picked up my siblings.  We piled in my little car and headed to the Reel Theatre to watch....drumroll....HUNGER GAMES.  Yes, it's true I'm obsessed.  I just love that book and movie.  My siblings and I have been very un-patiently waiting for it to come to the Dollar Theatre.  It was my third time seeing it and I still loved it.  I can't wait for the release on August 18th.  Woo!

When I arrived home I had a lovely letter from my best best friend.  I've been awaiting this letter for almost 2 weeks now.  It was an exciting moment!

Yeah...do you see that adorable ring??  I know, I'm lucky.  Raschelle Goodman is the best!  Only 1 month and 8 days until I get to see her again!  It will be an exciting reunion!

Then I watched the Olympics Opening Ceremonies with the fam.  I love the Olympics.  Seriously, it is an obsession.  I just love watching how talented and dedicated these people are.  I also love how the world comes together and competes.  It's beautiful.  The ceremonies were not nearly as cool as Beijing but I did enjoy Voldemort's presence.  The Harry Potter nerd in me was thrilled.

Then I headed to a friend's house for an outdoor movie.  We watched Megamind...always a good choice.  It was a good night minus the little scare where I thought I lost my brother.  Turns out he was just waiting by my car.  Sheesh....crazy kid.

(:

Today's Holidays are:
National Dance Day
National Milk Chocolate Day
National Day of the Cowboy
Hamburger Day

Tomorrow's Holidays are:
Lasagna Day
National Lipstick Day

July 26th

Hello!

So yesterday was National Chili Dog Day, Aunt and Uncle Day, and All or Nothing Day.

First off...chili dogs.  Well that did not sound in the least bit appetizing so my brother and I made spicy chicken alfredo and bread sticks.  I think we were much better off.  (:

Second...aunts and uncles.  I know I took the lazy way but I posted on all of my aunts and uncles facebook walls.  That was super easy because I am blessed to have an incredible family.  My aunts and uncles have been extremely supportive of me all through the years.  Now that I am in college I live closer to all of them than I do my immediate family. They take good care of me while I am away.  I love my aunts and uncles for the humor they bring and the examples they set.  (:

Third...All or Nothing.  I had big plans for this day when I first started researching these holidays.  Many things came to mind.  I was going to eat something super delicious and not stress a single bit over the calories.  Marisol and I were going to bike the 20 miles around Lake Lowell.  But when the day finally arrived I went to the other side of the spectrum...I opted for doing "nothing."  This may sound lazy, but after the crazy experiences I keep having this week (refer to previous post) I decided to prevent further injury and keep my sanity intact by enjoying the comfort and safety of my own home.   I think it was a wise choice.  I can report that I am in one piece and did not witness any near death situations.  Hooray!

Today's Holidays are:
Barbie-in-a-blender Day
National Talk in an Elevator Day
Take Your House Plant for a Walk Day
National Sleepy Head Day
National Creme Brulee Day
Olympics Day

(:

I'm Back!

Well it's been a little while and I have something to admit...I have been a slacker in my celebration of obscure holidays.  But I only decided to do that to fill up my time and I have been pretty busy with other things so I guess it's all good. I do have some good adventures to share though!

Here's 3 exciting adventures I have had in the past week.

#1 I bought a car!
I definitely feel more grown up now and that is exciting.  I am the proud owner of a green (ish) 1997 Mercury Tracer.  I bought it from an old woman who had her license taken away because her reaction time was too slow.  It is in almost perfect condition.  I am very excited about this car.  It makes me super happy and allows me to have a lot of adventures!  I've saved up for my whole life to buy this thing so I'm very proud of it!  YAY!

#2 Monday
Monday was supposed to be a pretty chill day.  And it was...until about 9:30 pm.  I am the FHE coordinator for our ward.  We decided to combine with another Singles Ward and go tubing out at Indian Creek.  We met at the church around 6 pm and then carpooled out to the creek.  After everyone was there we headed into the FREEZING water.  The current quickly carried me forward.  One of my best friends got in at the same time but was having some trouble with her tube.  As time went we ended up getting separated.  I wasn't too worried since we both knew a lot of the people there.  I finished out the 2 hour run of the creek and was one of the first ones out.  I waited as everyone came out of the creek.  Eventually it seemed that everyone had arrived at the meeting place except for Marisol and another girl named Deanne.  I started to get worried.  I ran back down to the river and she was no where in sight.  Then I started asking everyone in the group if they had seen them.  No one had.  I was slightly worried at this point.  They had reportedly never made it to the first area by some cliffs where there was an option to get out early.  We decided to head back to the head of the creek and look for them.  My brother and I ran along the bank from a road above the head to the head.  She wasn't there.  Then we got back in the car and began driving along the bank and through subdivisions looking for them.  It was dusk and we were anxious to find the girls.  We met some other searchers back at the head and set off on foot on the opposite side.  We crossed a bridge and follow a trail.  Eventually we had to walk along a railroad track.  Here is the part where some of you may call me stupid.  Don't worry...I know I am.  I had called my mom to tell her the situation and why we were running late.  All the sudden my brothers who were just up ahead of me yelled to get off the tracks.  I jumped off and a few seconds later a train came past.  I'm not sure how I didn't hear it but I do know that there were angels watching over me.  I couldn't back up that far because there was a barbed wire fence.  I just sat there stunned until I found an opening in the barbed wire that I could fit through and then I just stood and prayed until the train passed.  It was intense.  After the train had passed I received a call that the girls had been found.  We headed back to the church where I immediately embraced my friend.  I wish words could give justice to the feelings I experienced.  I was completely relieved, shaken, and full of gratitude.  If this wasn't enough I watched a girl almost drown in the first set of rapids because her tube was not providing enough support.  I couldn't help though because I was being carried away.  It was a little scary.  My emotions were high that night.

#3 Saving a Life
Marisol leaves for college next week so we wanted to spend some more time together this week.  Yesterday it was hot so we decided to go to the lake before institute and take a little swim.  My little sister and brother joined us.  We drove out to Lake Lowell and got in the warm water.  My siblings stayed close to shore to swim in the shallow water.  Meanwhile Marisol and I swam out to the little ball and rope things that rope off the swimming area.  We were just floating and chatting when we notice a 14 or 15 year old girl behind us.  She was making a lot of noise.  We thought she was laughing.  We asked her if she was ok several times until we heard someone from the dock yell, "She's not ok!  Help her!"  After that I bolted off to get her.  I reached her and tried to support her.  Within a few seconds two other guys swam up.  One of them grabbed her other arm and we supported her and tried to calm her until the Sheriff boat pulled up.  We tried to help her climb up.  She was definitely in shock and she had no strength.  She was finally able to be put on the boat.  Then the sheriff took her to the boat dock.  Marisol and I went back to swimming.  Eventually 2 ambulances and a fire truck arrived.  I guess she wasn't able to stand.  I believe she was treated for shock but she wasn't transported to any emergency facilities.  It was pretty intense.  I was just glad she ended up being ok.  Talk about being in the right place at the right time....sheesh.

So I think I am done with these near death experiences.  I think I have had my fair share for one week.  Haha.  I am feeling overwhelmingly blessed to be alive and have my friends and family alive as well.  I guess I just never realized what a blessing it is to be alive each and every day.  It makes me want to live each day to the absolute fullest and make sure to tell everyone I know that I love them.  I just don't want to have not said something and then never have the chance to.  This life is a blessing and I am so glad I was granted at least one more day.  I love my life, family, and friends.

I'm a lucky girl!

(:

Playing Catch Up

Hello again!  It's been a couple days!

My holiday celebrating hasn't been as exciting as of lately.  As I mentioned, Sunday was National Ice Cream Day, Gummi Worm Day, Be a Dork Day, and Cow Appreciation Day.  Well I had a shake from Sonic on Saturday night so I am counting that as my early celebration of National Ice Cream Day.  I was going to buy Gummi Worms for our trip to McCall on Monday and celebrate late but seeing as I am a college student I didn't really want to waste the money (or calories for that sake).  I think I am a dork everyday so that was certainly accomplished.  And...I didn't necessarily know how to celebrate Cow Appreciation Day.  I can tell you all the reasons I love cows though!  #1 They are delicious.  I mean who doesn't enjoy a juicy steak or a Sunday roast.  #2 They make milk and I love milk!  I really do.  #3 Their milk makes cheese.  I also love cheese.  #5 And most importantly their milk makes ice cream and I REALLY love ice cream.  mmmmm.  Haha.

Monday was Global Hug Your Child Day and International Juggling Day.  I didn't celebrate either...how sad.  I can't really juggle at all so that was a hopeless case to begin with.  I most definitely can hug my parents however...I just wasn't able to.  I woke up at 6 a.m. Monday and packed up my siblings and drove the 2 1/2 hours up to McCall.  It was a beautiful drive.  I love me some Idaho mountains.  We dropped off Parker at a scout camp and then roamed around the town for a little while.

Then we drove all the way back home.  I taught two awesome piano lessons and then hurried off to F.H.E.  I barely saw my parents at all.  So I will make sure to give each of them a proper hug today (:  F.H.E. turned out wonderful though.  Air Hockey, Volleyball, Human Slingshot, and a movie under the stars.  We also enjoyed Smore Burritos.  I LOVE them.  Most people are too hesitant to try them for some reason...maybe its the calories, but I promise that they are really not that bad.  Anyways, well we didn't buy very many supplies for them because we always have left overs.  Well last night they were a HUGE hit. We were out of supplies in a matter of minutes.  It was wonderful!  So let me share this scrumptious summer treat.  Please try it.

You need:
Chocolate
Marshmallows
Peanut Butter
Flour Tortillas
Knife
Foil
Fire! (in a pit or in a grill)

Instructions:  
Take a tortilla and spread it with the desired amount of peanut butter.  Then place marshmallows and chocolate on top of that.  Note:  if you use large marshmallows you will need to rip them into smaller pieces so they melt. Some people added crushed graham crackers to theirs and said it was good...you'll have to take their word for it. Roll it up like a burrito and wrap in foil.  Cook in a fire pit or on a grill for approx. 2 minutes per side.  Then open and enjoy.  It is a melted peanut butter fantasy in your mouth.  Mmm mmm good. Go try it!

Today's holiday is:
Peach Ice Cream Day

Tomorrow's holidays are:
Caviar Day
National Sidewalk Frying Day

(:

July 14th - Crepes and Craziness

Hello again!

Today has been another good day!

I woke up this morning and got right to work.  My little brother and sister helped me make some crepes to celebrate Bastille Day of French Independence Day!  Mmm.  I learned to make crepes from my father who learned from his mother who learned from her parents in France...so they are pretty legit!  The best part of the meal was when my dad told me that my crepes tasted "really good."  Yeah, that felt good.  I've accomplished at least one thing this summer!  Ha.  Check out our spread:

After enjoying the crepes we cleaned up the house.  Then I headed out to lunch with my friend Lexi!  We hadn't seen each other for over 7 months until today!  We enjoyed catching up at Texas Roadhouse.  Nom Nom Nom.  It was delicious.  We devoured our rolls, steak, potatoes, and corn on the cob!  Oh man.  It was very very tasty.  

We experienced our craziness associated with Pandemonium Day as we packed up my brother for his scout camp on Monday.  There was a lot of things that seemed to have disappeared as soon as we went to look for them.  I'm sure everyone knows how that goes.  Overall it was a pretty normal day with good food, family, and friends.  It ended with a 1/2 price Sonic shake with my brother Nathan.  I love those.  

Tomorrows's holidays are:

National Ice Cream Day

Gummi Worm Day

Be a Dork Day

Cow Appreciation Day

(: 

July 13th - My name is Melissa Fitzen and I'm a geek

My oh my!  What a day!

Today's holidays were much more fun that I had expected.  As I was beginning my day my dear friend Marisol texted me and asked me what holidays I would be celebrating today.  I told her (Barbershop Music Appreciation Day, Embrace Your Geekness Day, and National French Fries Day)  and she asked what my specific plans were.  I didn't have any yet so she suggested doing a lightsaber fight.  I thought that was brilliant but I was sad to find out that our family does not currently own any lightsabers that are in working condition.  So...I came up with a better idea!  I head to Walmart.  I bought some wooden dowels and brown acrylic paint.  Then I came home and gathered the troops (siblings).  We followed this wonderful tutorial I found and made our very own wands. As we made wands we enjoyed some delicious french fries!

 If you know me very well you will know that I am OBSESSED with Harry Potter.  I'm not even quite sure why, but I love it.  So this was the perfect way for me to "Embrace My Geekness."  We made some SICK wands.  Oh man.  Then we decided to dress up and have some pictures and a wand fight.   I found this insanely perfect black wig in our Halloween costume stash.  It only seemed toooo perfect.  I just couldn't resist.  After some massive amounts of black eye shadow and eyeliner I was ready.  Here are some of my favorites!

Ah.  This was so fun!  I forgot to mention!  As we made the wands we also listened to the Pandora Barbershop station.  It was all good fun!  (: So now you know...I am a geek.  Hopefully you found a way to embrace the inner geek in you!

Tomorrow's holidays are:
Bastille Day (French holiday...but I'm 1/4 French!)
Pandemonium Day
National Nude Day (I won't be celebrating this but if you want to...haha)

(:

July 12th - Ode to Simplicity

No one will probably know how excited I was when I saw two of the holidays that lined up today:  Different Colored Eyes Day and Simplicity Day.  It seemed too crazy to be true and let me tell you why...

This is my very best friend Jay Valle

As you can see in this photo, He has two different colored eyes.  It is pretty sweet.  He has a million stories that he tells people as to why they are that way and they are each incredibly hilarious.  Jay is also the person that has taught me the most about finding joy in the simple things of life.  He taught me about the things that are most important in life and he has influenced a lot of who I am today.

He loves brown paper packages.  His idea of a good time is red box and frozen pizza.  He also loves just going to the farmer's market and walking around.  He loves taking pictures and spending time with family.  He loves music and happens to be extremely talented at composing and playing piano.  He is also a brilliant percussionist.  He is passionate about what he does.  He is simply dedicated and obedient.  He loves to keep things simple and personal.  He loves to make people laugh and see them happy.  He is always himself.  It is inspiring.  I have a pretty cool best friend.

It is also Pecan Pie Day.  First off, I am not a fan of pecan pie.  So i began to search for another alternative.  Pinterest offered a solution....these little babies.

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups pecans, toasted and finely chopped

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

1 cup dark brown sugar, packed

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 tablespoons maple syrup

1/4 cup bourbon

1 teaspoon vanilla

7 ounces dark chocolate


Preparation

1. In a medium bowl, stir together pecans, graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar and salt until well combined. Add maple syrup, bourbon and vanilla, stirring thoroughly. Use your hands to make sure the mixture becomes fully incorporated.

2. Form mixture into walnut-sized balls, then place on a cookie sheet and freeze for 2 hours.

3. In the top of a double boiler or in a medium stainless steel bowl set over a pot of gently simmering water, melt chocolate. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Dip the frozen balls into the melted chocolate, then place onto prepared baking sheet. Let sit for 15 minutes or until firm.

Yield: 24 truffles. 
http://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2010/11/08/health/20101108_thanksgiving.html#Pecan_Pie_Truffles

But, it was simplicity day as well.  I didn't think it would be wise to slave over this rather expensive dish since only one person in my family would actually eat it.  Ha.  So I went the lazy route and didn't even make anything with pecans.  Maybe that was just a pathetic excuse but it works for me!  I did get to enjoy some simple pleasures of life though.  I went for a run in the morning.  Then I was able to just relax and watch TV (I don't do this very often, especially at school).  I also took a walk with my dog and spent over an hour playing the piano.  I read an amazing talk from General Conference.  Pure Brilliance.  It is a top 5 for me.  David A. Bednar - The Tender Mercies of the Lord
http://www.lds.org/general-conference/2005/04/the-tender-mercies-of-the-lord?lang=eng

Today's (since I am yet again publishing this late) holidays are:
Barbershop Music Appreciation Day
Embrace Your Geekness Day
National French Fry Day

Enjoy (:

July 11th - Slurpees, Smiles, and the World

A day late again, sorry.

Yesterday was a good day.  It wasn't as productive as I had hoped it would be since I was not feeling so well.  But!  I did the best I could.  So I started out the day with some inspiring quotes and scripture study that lifted my spirits.  Then I got to talk to my dear roommate Madi Jeanfreau.

Just so you know.  I love this girl!  She is one amazing woman.  We got to talk for a good 40 minutes and it made me VERY happy.  Good times.  Then I made some delicious pasta for lunch - whole grain penne with a homemade cheese sauce with lots of pepper.  mmmm.  That also made me happy.  Then I ran some errands which included splitting a frozen yogurt from costco with my mom.  Frozen yogurt makes me happy.  So does my mom.  Then for dinner we had rotisserie chicken, salad, green beans, and rolls.  That also made me happy.  Then the real celebration began.  Marisol and I decided we should go to institute at least once this summer.  They were going to go bowling afterwards which sounded appealing so we headed out.  On the way we had to stop and get a "slurpee" from Chevron.  They had this new flavor!  Pomegranate Lemonade.  Holy deliciousness.  It was wonderful.  Slurpees are always too sweet for me, but this was brilliant!  Ah.

Yeah...check out those red teeth.  Gross. Haha.  Anyways, then we found out that bowling was canceled so we just got to chat with a few people we hadn't seen for awhile.  That was good fun!
So obscure holidays celebrated:
Slurpees- Check
World Population Day - well, how are you really supposed to celebrate that??  Well I found out that the current population of the world is 7,025,808,653.  That is one large number.  Anyways, you can just store that in the section of your brain reserved for random facts that you can't ever remember when you want to.  Ha. For some reason the first thing I thought of when I saw "World Population Day"  was the song below.  It  is a whole bunch of popular artists from many genres coming together to help the people of Haiti.  Isn't it a beautiful thing when people come together like this?   I especially like Celine Dion's part.  Brilliant.

Cheer Up the Lonely - well, I would like to say that I cheered up someone but I'm not really sure if I did.  I tried to be friendly if that counts for anything.  I tried to have extra patience with my siblings when it came to chores.  I guess it is just a goal of mine to try to live this day everyday from now one.  Sounds SUPER cheesy but I think it is a good idea.  Yeah?  You should join me.  I'm sure it would make a difference.  Actually, I know it would.

Today's Holidays:
Pecan Pie Day
Different Colored Eyes Day
Simplicity Day

(:

July 10th - Teddy Bears and Pina Coladas

Happy July 10th!

Can I just tell you how stoked I was when I found out that I would get to celebrate Teddy Bear Picnic day??  So when I was younger my mom would always sing us the song "Teddy Bear Picnic."

Sounds cheesy now but I l.o.v.e.d. that song and ever since I have wanted to have a picnic with my own teddy bear.  Well it's never too late right?? So we packed up little lunches and headed to a nearby park.  We had a quiet picnic in the shade.  It was splendid.

Our family is full of Harry Potter fanatics so when we found some sticks it could only mean one thing...WIZARDING DUEL.  Logan and I had some good fun!

After the park we headed home for some relaxing.  Then dinner time came around.  It is Taco Tuesday which complimented our celebration of Pina Colada Day.  I am not a big fan of Pina Coladas because I am not a huge coconut fan.  If you are you can look up a good recipe to enjoy a normal version.  Here is the recipe I used for a coconut free Pina Colada.  It was very yummy!

1 cup ice
1 1/4 cups pineapple juice
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 Tbsp. white sugar
(http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070816181633AAkDyEg)

Throw it all in the blender and voila!  It makes about 2 servings and takes just over a minute. My family thoroughly enjoyed it!

Tomorrow is:
Cheer Up the Lonely Day
Slurpee Day
World Population Day

enjoy (:

July 9th - National Sugar Cookie Day

Who doesn't love a good sugar cookie?  I like mine soft and chewy with a light but super yummy frosting.  I had all these great plans.  #1 I was going to call up my roommate Courtney.  Her mom has a BOMB! recipe for sugar cookies, but the dough has to be refrigerated so I would have needed a little more time for that option.  So then Plan B was to turn to good ol' Pinterest.  I had previously pinned a scrumptious looking recipe for sugar cookies (that did not require refrigeration) and I thought I would just try that out.  An unexpected trip to the doctor's took up all of my baking time.  Stupid.  So we had to resort to Plan C (for cookies! ha)  I sent my wonderful father to Wally World to pick up some Granny B's Sugar Cookies - you know?  The ones that are circle shaped with perfect bubblegum pink frosting and in almost every vending machine for $1.  Yup...those ones!  haha.  As we waited we decided to have a photo shoot.  If you know my family you know that my brother Nathan and I don't necessarily look like we belong.  As the two brunette children we seem a little too abnormal (ironically) in the midst of the 4 flaming red headed siblings.  Just a few weeks ago I went on a trip with my mother and sister to Utah for my roommate's wedding.  Everywhere, and I'm not exaggerating, we went (including gas station restrooms) people would stop and stare at my gorgeous sister.  They would ask my mom if she was proud to have such a beautiful red headed daughter.  They would comment that if they could have anything in the world they would have red hair.  They admitted that they would pay all the money in the world to get hair like that.  Oh geez.  In the midst of these comments they would shoot a pitiful glance in my direction.  It was a big self esteem boost!  Let me tell you.  But that was a big side note.  So back to the real story.  My brother Nathan and I decided to have our own little "black head"  (probably not the most flattering term) photo shoot.  We got our dog Molly and starting just goofing off.  Well at 10 o'clock at night with two crazy kids and a tired dog this is what you get.

My most flattering photos?  Nope.  Do I care?  Not at all.  This was SO  fun.  We especially got a kick out of Molly's face in the second photo.  HAHA.  oh man.  It was just one of those hilarious yet VERY quirky family moments.  We were laughing SO hard.  What else is worth living for?  Ah man.  Good times.  Then,  we finally got our sugar cookies.

MMM.  Well, I might have to redeem myself and make some homemade ones later this week.  Stay tuned for some more good holidays.  Today (since I am writing this post a day late)  is Teddy Bear Picnic Day and Pina Colada day!  Enjoy!

(: