Christmas With Brandon

This Christmas was wonderful! I was FINALLY able to spend Christmas with Brandon, and let me just tell you, it was amazing.

Brandon and I decided that we were going to have OUR Christmas on the 23rd. We figured that way we could have our own time to exchange presents, without our families all around. It was so nice (I think that we might do that every year). Well, I gave him a quilt that I made (with help from my mom). I had been planning on making him one for almost 3 years now, and I finally made it. It's black and white, with pictures of he and I on it. I also got him a new pair of jeans, slippers, and TONS of stocking stuffers. Brandon gave me a digital camera, a pink fleece tie blanket (that he and Jared made for me), and also plenty of stocking stuffers. We spent that evening with Jared and Hayley, so it was a nice relaxing night for us.

On Christmas Eve, Brandon and I spent the day at the house, then that night went over to Brandon's parents house. We had dinner with them and then walked around Old Town and looked at the lights. It was so pretty, I almost wish that Brandon and I had gone and done that on our own, sooner. After looking at the lights, we went back to his parents house to open up some gifts. Brandon got kitchen supplies from his sister Ashley. That was pretty cool. And, I am more than likely going to end up using them more than he is, cuz let's be honest, Brandon doesn't cook. lol. I went home to my mom's that night, and was greeted very nicely by my brother. I think he was really happy that I was home, and not leaving him alone with mom anymore. lol.

Christmas Day, Nathan and I woke up around 8:30 and opened up presents with my mom and Nana. I got some new dishes, pj's, and lots of other stuff. I don't even know what Nathan got. hahaha. We then had our traditional Christmas morning breakfast, breakfast burritos. Mmmm... they were so good! The 4 of us played dominoes, and then Brandon got there. Brandon opened up his present from mom, and he got matching pj's to me, and then we opened up our presents from Nana. We got a 72 piece tool kit, 2 LED flashlights, and an extension cord (all great stuff for our house). Then, it was off to dad's. Brandon and I got gift cards to places for our house, and I got some CUTE pink pj's. (My dad knows that I LOVE pink, so he always gets me something pink.) We played pinball with my dad for about 45 mins, and then it was back to mom's. When we got back to mom's, she had a few "family" presents for us to open. We got a Wii! And Wii fit! We had a wonderful family dinner, and then played Apples to Apples.

All in all, it was probably one of the greatest Christmas' I've ever had. It was seriously wonderful to get to spend it all with Brandon. And, I look forward to getting to wake up with him Christmas morning, instead of with Nathan. lol.

Christmas Shopping

So, I forgot how much fun Christmas shopping could be. I mean, everyone always talks about how stressful it is to go Christmas shopping, and how no one looks forward to it. But, that was not me this year. This year I was so excited to go Christmas shopping for Brandon and everyone else in my family.
Last Wednesday, I started my Christmas shopping at Kohl's and found Nathan's gift and the last half of Brandon's gifts. Let me just tell you, pretty much AMAZING bargains. Then today, I went to Wal-Mart and got even more bargains. I finished up shopping for my dad and Nathan, and was able to get the gifts for all of the parents. Jo-Ann Fabrics wasn't really shopping for Christmas gifts, but I found some more BARGAINS there, 70% off of all of their Christmas stuff. I got some ADORABLE stockings and ornaments. Also I got our invitations today (obviously not a Christmas gift... but very exciting)! We ended at the Dollar Tree, to get stocking stuffers. I pretty much HOOKED BRANDON UP! I'm not kidding either. The guy who was checking me out at the register (cashier guy) told me that he wished he was my boyfriend (let me tell you, it was an awkward moment) and he said that my boyfriend was a lucky guy, that I HOOKED HIM UP! lol. (It was very awkward cuz I'm just standing there looking at him, and he has this creepy look on his face like, OMG I've never had a girl this pretty at my check stand!)
So, basically, I LOVED Christmas shopping this year. Maybe it's because I found AMAZING deals, and nothing I got was "ghetto". But either way, it was fun!
I wish everyone a VERY merry Christmas! I hope that you enjoy your time with your friends and family!

Letter to the Big Guy

Dear Santa,

First, I would like to start out by apologizing for being the naughty person I have been this year. I haven't been bad, per say, but I don't know that I have always been the nicest of people.

I know that I can try harder, but, I still feel like I am deserving of some presents, rather than just a lump of coal.

I was granted I guess an amazing gift, and the happiness that it has brought me should last me the whole year, but there are still a few more things that I could use. If you decide that I have been nice enough to make it on that list, could you please help me out with these things?

Just think of all the fun I've missed, think of all the fellas that I haven't kissed. Next year I could be just as good, if you'll check off my Christmas list. I really do believe in you, let's see if you believe in me. So, hurry down the chimney tonight!

Before I give you this list, might I give you a few helpful hints or suggestions for yourself? 1. Eat less cookies this year. They're loaded with tons of sugar and that can't be good for your figure. So, eat less cookies (unless they're from like the 100 calorie pack, because one of those from each house is ok). 2. Give Mrs. Claus a little bit more credit. I'm sure that she does plenty of work around the shop, and I know that you wouldn't be the man you are today, without her, so give her a little more credit. On the 26th, treat her to a spa day or something. 3. During the off season, maybe you could call up Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers or something, you really should be taking better care of yourself, we want you to be around for a long long time.

-Money (cash works, as do checks and all major credit cards)
-a new laptop (I'm not picky as to which kind, just something that will help me to make more annoying posts on my blog)
-a digital camera (preferably a Canon or a Kodak, but anything would do... I hear that Target is having some great deals right now)
-candles (I love things that smell good, and that make things feel more homey)
-a hair straightener (maybe Mrs. Claus could help you out with this one, I think she has more luck in this department)
-pots and pans (I want to be able to cook better for Brandon, I don't want him to end up like you... no offense)
-slippers... fuzzy ones with rubber on the bottom
-footy pajamas (come on Santa, these have been on my list for like 5 years now)
-pretty much any DVD will do
-board games (you know me, I love to play games)
-kitchen utensils... wire whisk, ladle, wooden spoons.... the whole shebang
-new shirts (another thing Mrs. Claus might be able to help you out on)
-crock pot
-a '54 convertible too, light blue... and I'll wait up for you
-I want a yacht... and really that's not a lot, I've been an angel all year
-there's something I really do need, the deed... to a platinum mine
-fill my stocking with a duplex, and checks... sign your X on the line
-decorations bought at Tiffany's

Thank you, and Merry Christmas!
Yours Truly,
Terri

My how the times have changed

I was reading some of my old blog posts, from last year. From last December until April of this year. It was crazy to read and see the difference that a year has brought. And, I'm truly grateful of all of the changes that this year has brought me.

I was reading my 2009 resolutions, and realized that I think I might have reached half of my goals. And, honestly, I'm ok with that. Because, the half that I completed were the important ones to me. Who cares if I didn't lose the 20 lbs. that I had hoped for (Brandon keeps telling me that there's nowhere to lose it from). I didn't buy myself a new car, but Brandon and I are in the process of buying his. I am just proud of myself for the things that I did accomplish.

I love my life, and I'm happy for the things that will be coming in the near future of my life. The times are changing. But, they're changing for the BETTER.

The House

These pictures are from a good friend of mine and Brandon, Alden Domingo. We love him to death, and we were very glad that he got to come over and see the house. Especially because now it means that you all get to see pictures of the house!

This is the Front Room

Basically, when you walk in the front door, you see this.

Then you step to your right and up a little step and this is the living room.

To your right when you walk into the living room. The nice comfy leather couches.

And basically, right when you walk into the living room, you see our beautiful, wonderful fireplace. This is me in front of the fire that I built in our fireplace.

Here's Brandon with his bag of popcorn, ready for the movie, staying warm by the fire.

Hayley, Jared, Brandon and my stockings.

A far away view of the fireplace.

Here is the entertainment center. Hayley, Jared, Brandon and I have started filling it with pictures of us. It's pretty fun.

Ok, so then you go across the hall, and you're in the kitchen. Here's Brandon and Richard in the kitchen. While cooking, there is only room for one person in the kitchen (especially when I'm cooking, I don't like people in my way).

Me and Alden in the kitchen.

The antique stove. It actually works pretty well. I've cooked a few meals on it already.

One of the MANY cupboards with all my dishes in it.

Above the refrigerator. We're using that for storage, until I get all of the drawers and cupboards cleaned out. And, I got BRAND NEW pans and Pyrex... SOOO excited!

Here is the full view of the kitchen. As of now, it is EVEN CLEANER, because I LOVE things clean, as does Brandon. And, I spent the day yesterday cleaning while Brandon was at work. On the other side of the door on the right (you can kind of see the door) is the laundry room. It's not done yet, that's why there are no pics.

Here's a picture of the bathroom. It's not done yet, but we figured we needed to show a picture of it.

Here's me standing in the bathroom. See how tiny it is... only one person fits at a time, unless you're standing next to each other.

We also don't have any pictures of the bedroom yet, because I didn't want people to see that until it was cleaned. I mean, there are 2 boys living there, I'm sure you can imagine how messy the bedroom is. But, it is to the right of the bathroom.

So, here's a mini virtual tour of the house. When Brandon and I are both living there, you'll have to come for a real tour.

LOVED THIS!

I saw this the other night, and I absolutely LOVED it. Glee has become my new favorite show. Unfortunately it won't be back till January. Enjoy this music video from it though!

OUR new family

Brandon and I had a FABULOUS weekend this weekend with our new family. (Or at least that's what the 4 of us are calling it.)

Brandon just recently moved out of his parents house and moved into the house that we will be living in when we're married. He's living with his best friend, Jared. The house is well, a fixer upper, but it honestly isn't that bad. The outside of the house is a little scary looking, the paint is chipping off of places and the lawn is less than pretty, but it's been fun getting to work on it with Hayley and the boys. The inside of the house is another story. The inside looks AMAZING! The floors are pretty much all laminate wood floors, it is fully furnished, has a beautiful wood burning fireplace, and it truly is becoming a home (not just a house).

Well, since the boys are living together (and doing pretty much everything together), it gives Jared and Hayley and myself and Brandon PLENTY of time to spend together. We LOVE having movie nights with them, going to musicals, and seriously just doing whatever. Brandon and I love having our alone time (I mean, what couple doesn't?). But, we seriously love spending time with our friends too. On Sunday night, Brandon and I invited a ton of our friends over for a movie night. Since it was a Sunday and a bit of a drive, only Alden and Richard came out. But, we loved having them over.

WE love spending time with other people, who like spending time with us. Obviously I'm not with Brandon 24/7, but we do love to spend time together, too. He has his own life, and he does have his own friends, as do I. We just love mixing those things together. Which brings me to family situations. It's no secret (to anyone who reads my blog) that Brandon's family doesn't like me. For holidays, when you are a couple, you have to figure holidays out. I mean, you can't spend the entire holiday with one family, but at the same time, the COUPLE should be invited to both family's holiday get togethers. Whether you are dating, engaged, or married, the holidays are time to spend with the people or person that you love. And ultimately, the couple decides where they are going. If one member of the couple has been uninvited to a holiday activity, why would the other member of that couple want to go? Exactly, doesn't make sense... does it?

This brings me to I guess my conclusion of this post. Brandon and I are in the process of becoming our own family. And, in our family, we do not exclude anyone who wishes to be included, whether they are blood or not.

Flu

So, I thought I was immune to the flu. Or, at least I thought that since I get migraines, I wouldn't get a horrible flu, too. I mean, I can handle a little cold here and there, but the flu... I don't think so.

Tuesday night, I fell victim to THE FLU! Yep, that's right... the flu! It was horrible. I haven't had a flu like that one in a good 8 or 9 years. I had a 102.5 fever and was vomitting and achy all over. I slept ALL DAY yesterday. I seriously just wanted to curl up and die.

Brandon was wonderful throughout it, though. He was text messaging me and making sure I was still alive, all day. He felt so bad that I was as sick as I was. He kept offering to bring me gatorade, popsicles, and medicine. But, I didn't want him getting anywhere near me, with as sick as I was feeling.

I'm finally feeling a little bit better. But, that flu was not one that I would wish upon anyone. When it was hot in my room, I was cold. When it was cold in my room, I was hot. My body temperature could not get normal.

if you like it than you shoulda put a ring on it

So, I was listening to the radio today, and once I FINALLY thought that this song was out of my head, it comes on the radio, and now it's stuck in my head again!

This song is really funny to me. It reminds me of one of my good friends, Brian Stanfill. Before Brandon proposed, Brian used to go around saying to Brandon, "If you like it than you should put a ring on it." And then, after Brandon proposed, quite a few of my friends went around saying, "He liked it so he put a ring on it."

I feel bad for anyone who has to deal with the dumb guy that doesn't realize what he has. I mean, don't get jealous because "your girl" is over there dancing or talking to another guy. If you like it, than you shoulda put a ring on it.

Merry Christmas!

So, I did this last year, and I found it was much easier to do it this way rather than sending out individual Christmas cards. Cuz, let's face it, I'm poor, saving up for a wedding, and it's just as easy to write a Christmas card on here, than anywhere else.

Dear Family and Friends,

As we come to the end of yet another year, I am filled with gratitude for all of the love and support that you have given me over the many years of my life. I have moved back home to California, and although I miss the cold, snowy weather, I love it. I am surrounded by family, friends, and of course, Brandon is here.

In the past year, Brandon and I have had our own little roller coaster ride. From a wonderful, amazing Christmas phone call, to e-mails from home telling him to break up with me, to him actually breaking up with me when he got home, to us getting engaged in September, and finally to us planning our wedding and eternity together. For those of you who don't know, Brandon served a 2-year mission in the Mexico Hermosillo Mission, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served a wonderful mission and has great stories to tell about it.

Now, to the engagement part. We got engaged on September 10th and are getting married March 27th, 2010. Brandon completely and totally surprised me with the proposal. We both have known for the past 2 1/2 years, that we were going to get married, but after this summer, I didn't think that we would be getting married for at least another 2 years. Like I said, we were on a bit of a roller coaster. But then, at the end of August, we started talking a little bit more serious about the idea of marriage. We started talking about getting engaged in December, and then married in April. It sounded like a great idea (so I thought). But, Brandon had other plans. Brandon asked my dad for his blessing, for us to get married, on Labor Day, and my dad said yes! Apparently, Brandon had already bought my ring (I had no idea). (And, there are very few things that Brandon does without telling me, or without me somehow knowing.) Brandon asked me 3 days later. We will be living in a house in Lake Elsinore, when we get married. It is a little house, but it is nice and cozy, and perfect for the 2 of us.

I am attending Mt. San Antonio College, again. It's... fun. I feel like I have absolutely no time for anything, but it's kind of exciting to go back to school and people look at you like you're the smart kid. (I think I'll just let them think that :) ) Work has been a blast! I have been working full-time at a school portraits company. I was the office manager's assistant. I'm not really sure if that's the technical name of what I did, but basically I did EVERYTHING around the office. I answered phones, worked computers, sent out the order forms to the schools, printed the pictures, packaged the pictures, and sent them out. It was fun to get to kind of be in charge of things, and get to show how great of a worker I am. I was given MANY responsibilities, especially this last week, when I stepped in as the Production Manager.

Brandon is attending Mt. San Jacinto College, in Menifee. He likes it there. He is working to transfer to either BYU-Idaho or BYU-Provo in either the summer or fall of next year. He works as a manager for the carpet cleaning company: Pure Organic. He likes his work schedule, because it gives him time off for school, and it also gives him Sunday's off. Brandon just moved into the house we will be living in, in Lake Elsinore. He loves being on his own, and he is excited to get to fix up the house before I move in.

We have received some sad news, within the past few months, in my family. At the end of September, we found out that my Nana has breast cancer. Within a few weeks, we also found out that my aunt Jennifer has breast cancer, as well. My Nana went through a lumpectomy and found out that the cancer spread into her lymph nodes. She will undergo radiation treatment, and we are praying that everything goes well. My aunt Jen will also undergo a lumpectomy and radiation treatment. We are trying to keep positive thoughts, and keep them in our prayers.

I am grateful for my family and friends. I know that God has blessed me so much this year, and I don't know where I would be without His love. I hope that you and your family will remember what this holiday season is really about. Jesus is the reason for the season. I love you, and hope that you have a Merry Christmas!

Love,
Terri and Brandon

Giving Thanks

Due to the holiday (which is tomorrow) I have been feeling quite thankful lately. I realize that I have so many things to be thankful for, and that I truly am blessed.

As I was sitting at work this morning, once again bragging about my wonderful, thoughtful fiance, the thought crossed my mind that I am so lucky to have him in my life. Brandon puts up with so much. And, let's be quite honest, I'm not always the easiest person to put up with, but still he puts up with me and loves me. I am so grateful to have his love. I truly feel like I don't deserve him. There are so many better girls out there, than myself, and he could have his pick. Any girl would die for him, and somehow, he chose me.

Some other things that I have been thinking about, and things that I am grateful for are my family. My family is amazing. Sure I get frustrated with them sometimes. And, I'll be the first to admit that they're not perfect. But, they're pretty darn close in my book. We're not perfect in the fact that we don't make any mistakes. But, I think that our family dynamic and the way that we love each other unconditionally is pretty perfect. My brother and sister are my best friends, and we are all able to talk to my mom about anything.

I'm grateful to have a job, at this time! Jobs are hard to come by in this day and age, but thankfully I have never had too big of a problem finding a job.

I'm thankful and grateful to have a Heavenly Father who loves me. He loves me so much, He sent his only begotten son to atone for my sins.

Remember, this is the season of being grateful for the things that you have. Tell the people you love, that you love them. Put any old arguments behind you, and forgive anyone who has said anything bad against you. You never know who will be in your life tomorrow, so have them in your life today.

Things I Miss About Utah...

So, Brandon knows how much I miss Utah. It is driving me crazy, I keep getting text messages from my friends in Utah that say, "It's Snowing!" Or, "I took a drive through Provo Canyon today, and the colors are so pretty!" And, many other "Utah" messages.
I decided I was going to make a list of all of the things I miss about Utah! (And, honestly, I never thought I would miss ANY of these. Am I a California girl gone Utard? I hope not!)
1. COLD weather! I am becoming a PANSY again! I get cold in 70 degree weather. It's ridiculous. While I was living in Utah, I was fine walking around with a sweatshirt, in 40 degree weather. But now, I wear my big coat if it drops below 70!
2. FALL! OK, so people may think that us Californians are kidding when we say that we have no fall, but we're not. Last year, I experienced my first "changing leaves". It was beautiful to watch and see the leaves change colors. I remember sitting outside of the WILK and taking a picture of this beautiful tree. It was orange and yellow. People probably looked at me like I was crazy taking a picture of a tree. But, I had never seen the colors, in a tree, before!
3. People knowing what I'm talking about when I say, "The WILK", that someone lives in Sandy, that when you say around the corner, you literally mean around the corner. I miss my "Happy Valley". I miss the lingo of Provo/BYU/Utah!
4. I miss my friends! Brandon has gotten so used to the phrase, "My friend _________, from Provo." Because, seriously, all of those friends are the ones that I tell stories about all the time!
5. Wondering if it is going to snow! I remember looking outside of my bedroom window and looking out and wondering if it was going to snow. Now, all I do is look outside and PRAY that it is going to rain.
6. Having all of the members of your ward live within a 1 minute walking distance of your front door. I LOVED having my home teachers live just across the parking lot. I knew that if I ever needed anything, they would literally be RIGHT OVER. And, it made visiting teaching MUCH MUCH MUCH easier. Everyone was home on Sunday afternoon, so I would just walk over to their apartment and go visiting teaching.
7. When giving directions, the main streets are either University Ave, University Pkwy, 9th East, a NUMBER street, or an apartment complex. People would ask me, where do you live? I would say: Off of Bulldog and Freedom Blvd, across the street from Alpine Village. Or, you would ask where someone else lived and they would say oh, over by King Henry. I miss knowing where all of those apt complexes are!
8. Driving 15 minutes to work is a LONG way, let alone 30 minutes to school, or 45 minutes to your fiance's house!

There are MANY MANY other things I miss, but I will save those for another day! And, I do have good news... I will be out visiting UTAH in less than a month!!! I'm going to the 1st Presidency Christmas Devotional in Salt Lake, so I will be there! YAY! I will get to fill up my "canteen" a little bit. My Utah canteen that is!

We were made for each other!

After a little thinking, I totally realized that this statement is true for Brandon and myself. Sure, it may not be true for most or even some people, but I definitely think it's true for Brandon and I.
Sure there are MANY differences between he and I, but I think that's what makes us made for each other, and perfect for each other. I think that I was made for him, because he strengthens my weaknesses. He makes me strive to be a better person, and isn't that what Heavenly Father wants for us? He doesn't want someone for us who is EXACTLY like us, I think that he "makes someone for us" who will teach us things and help us grow.
Let's think about this, if we were to marry someone who was EXACTLY like us. Every flaw was the same, every strength was the same, all of that stuff. Would life be ANY fun? Brandon and I have so much fun, because we are so different, but so alike in so many ways!
So, being made for each other or being perfect for each other, I think is amazing. We all have someone. It doesn't mean they are exactly like us, it just means that they are perfect for you! And, Brandon is my other half, he completes me.

Engagement Pictures

So, Brandon and I went and took engagement pictures about a week and a half ago, on Halloween. It was so much fun! Here are a few that I liked that were so cute and fun! There will be more to come!

These ones are taken in Downtown Disney/California Adventure


This one was taken down at the Corona Del Mar beach

It's a date!

So, Brandon and I have set our date for our wedding! I am so excited. We decided about 2 weeks ago or so that we will be getting married on March 27th, 2010!

I am going to get fitted for my dress on October 17th. I found one online that is only $150. I'm hoping that it will be the one that I decide that I want. It's super cute, but I'm just scared that it won't fit right.

On October 24th, me and my mom, and my bridesmaids (who are currently in CA) will be going dress shopping! Dress shopping then probably lunch or something! I am so excited to have a girls day. Christine and I are going for a girls/wedding day tomorrow, and I could not be more excited!

Fallin' For You

So, I am absolutely in love with this song.

Go take a look!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j7qtLrQVUFQ

And, honestly, this is how I felt with Brandon, when I first started "falling" for him! Except, he's not some fat Italian guy! hahaha.

Retraction...

I would like to type a retraction for the last post that I wrote. I wrote it in anger, and that is not a good way to do anything. I'm sorry for hurting any one's feelings by it, it wasn't right. It may be how I feel, but like I said before, I need to keep my opinions to myself.

I'm sorry.

Opinions and Comments

Since this last Thursday night, when Brandon and I got engaged, we have received MANY different comments. So many people want to express our opinions to us, about what they think of us being engaged. The majority of the people have expressed their excitement for us, and have told us that they know that we will do amazing.
But, there are those few people who have chosen to express their opinions of doubt and rudeness. Well, I would like to tell you, that is RUDE! Sure, you may feel like you need to tell me that my marriage is going to fail, or you may want to write on your blog how big of a joke Brandon and my engagement is, or, you may even feel compelled to tell Brandon that I am a huge mistake and that I'm not good enough for him. Well, this is what I have to say to you about that. I don't care. Keep your opinions to yourself!
I was taught in second grade about opinions and about not always voicing what you think. Now, it is called a "word filter" but, it is the exact same thing that I was taught in second grade. If what you are thinking is going to hurt someone else, than don't say it. I have learned to say, and think, "Well, that's your opinion, not mine." So, I have learned not to be rude or mean, and not to voice my opinions about people who are doing things that I might not agree with. I have learned that that is MY opinion, and not theirs.
Brandon and I are going to do amazing. We love each other, and we both have goals set. I have people tell me how surprised they are at Brandon and my decisions and our goals. Sure, we're only 21, but we are adults and we know how to work together to achieve those goals. We don't want to be in debt and bankrupt, struggling to survive. So, we're not rushing into anything. We're going to wait until March or April (whenever our spring break is) to get married. We decided to wait so we can save money, so that we will have enough money to survive when we're first married.
I am so excited to embark on Brandon and my life together. It's going to be hard, but it is going to be so worth it. We're going to work together, so that we WILL succeed in this life. I love him, and he loves me. That's all that matters.
For those of you reading this blog, who would like to express your opinions about me and Brandon getting married, use your word filter, think about what you're saying, and think about if it is going to hurt someone else. We love our friends so much, and we look forward to sharing this journey and chapter of our lives with you!

"...she's gonna marry that boy someday."

I still feel like I am living in a dream! It is amazing that I can FINALLY say this, (I honestly thought that this day would never come) I am engaged to the man of my dreams, Brandon Alexander Adawi!
Brandon asked me last night to marry him, and I OF COURSE said YES!
Here's a rundown of how the night happened. I drove to school and found out that my class was canceled. So, I text messaged Brandon and told him that it was canceled, and he asked if he could come over and watch a movie. Of course I said yes (because I obviously love spending time with him)! He came over and we watched "P.S. I Love You". It was the first time Brandon had seen it, and I think he liked it. (Who knows though, he was probably just trying to humor me.) When the movie was over, I told him that I would just say goodnight to him there at the door. He said no, that he wanted me to walk him to his car. I walked him to his car, and we started talking about things and how I would get to see him on Saturday. He then said that he remember me mentioning a few weeks ago that girls like to get flowers every now and then, just because. He told me that he had some flowers for me in the backseat. We walked over to the other door and in there were 2 dozen red roses, and 3 white roses. He told me that the 3 white roses were special, that one represented our past, one represented our present, and one represented our future. The one that represented our future he said was extra special, that there was a string attached. (And, there literally was a string attached!) Attached to the other end of the string, was a ring box. He got the ring box and got on one knee and asked me to marry him!
Somebody pinch me, because I feel like I'm still dreaming. Can this really be happening?!? I love him so much, and I'm glad that things are working for us!
We don't have a date set yet, but the date will hopefully be soon to come! And, pictures will be soon to come too! The ring is GORGEOUS, just what I wanted!
"Terri's young and then she just don't care, she'd follow Brandon anywhere. She's in love with the boy, she's in love with the boy. What's meant to be will always find a way, she's gonna marry that boy someday."

As school starts, another journey begins

School started on Tuesday night for me. That was an experience, going back to Mt. San Antonio College, going back to a school that I tried so hard to get away from. I'm not going to lie, I was not thrilled about going to class on Tuesday night. I had to try and add a math class, that I didn't want to take, plus I had to leave Disneyland early. (Pictures to be posted in the near future) But, I went to class, and the professor said that he would not be adding anyone until next Tuesday. That is good, and bad at the same time. Good because it will give me a better chance of being added, because most likely, a majority of the students will not come back. Bad because if they all do come back, it could be a week of class time wasted. The class was VERY easy, and VERY boring (oh yay!).
Well, then last night (Wednesday night) I went to Mt. SAC to try and add two more classes. An online Philosophy class and a Poli Sci class. I was able to add both YAY! The philosophy class, I wish was an actual class and not an online class. The professor, David Lane, was awesome. He was hilarious and opened my mind to a lot of things. Like, why am I going to school? Why does school cost so much? Do professors really know more than we do? (The answer to that question is no... everyone has access to the same information... the Internet... so no one can actually know more than another person. Yes, someone may be skilled in that area, but the amount of information that professors, doctors, teachers, or whatever you want to call them have is the same.) My poli sci class is going to be interesting, to say the least. The professor laughs HYSTERICALLY. Like, he will say something funny, wait for a response, and then he will start cracking up. He made some comment about polygamy, during class last night, and looked right at me when he said it. Did he know I am Mormon? I doubt it, but either way it was pretty hilarious. The class is 3 hours long, and by the time it was over my butt was asleep!
As much as I may not being looking forward to school, I am definitely looking forward to my future. And, obviously going to school is a BIG step in the right direction, for my future. I go to school Tuesday-Thursday nights from 7-10ish (the ending time is different on Tuesday & Thursday than it is on Wednesday). I start my new job at: School Portraits by Adams Photography in two weeks. I'm VERY excited about that.
I promise I'm going to do better at keeping this blog up to date. Feel free to leave a comment here and there... I will definitely be better at updating, if I know that people are commenting and reading. What's the point in me writing something if no one's going to read it... right? Well, I love you all tons, and I've gotta finish setting up my mom's classroom.
Love,
Terri Ann

Don't you wish they all could be California girls?

Well, recently, I realized that that is exactly what people wish for. Ok, or maybe that's just what I hope that everyone wishes for, oh well, it doesn't really matter anyways.

I feel like I have been horrible lately, I have been slacking with keeping this thing updated. I feel like I am always running a mile a minute, but honestly, I wonder what I do with all of my time.

I figured that I should let everyone know, I will be staying a TRUE California girl, at least until January. After much deliberation, I decided to stay in California for this fall semester. My mom gave me an offer that I chose not to refuse. Brandon also helped me make the choice to stay.

I will be living in Chino, for the next 4 months, with my mom. I'm going to be going back to Mt. SAC (Mt. San Antonio College), and I will also be working for a school portraits photography studio. I get to do a bunch of office work, and organize the picture orders and what not. I'm really excited to be staying.

I moved back in with my mom on Sunday night, and by Monday afternoon, I already had a job. I'm excited for this semester, and I hope that things will work out as planned between Brandon and myself. But, honestly, these days we can never tell. I love you all. And, for those of you who are still in Provo, UT... don't worry, I will be back. And, I'm going to try and visit at least once during the semester. <3

It's Kinda Crazy!

So, it's kind of crazy, but it was over a month ago that I last updated my blog. I can't believe it! I used to be so good at updating it, but these days, I guess I've got a little bit more on my plate than normal.

I will try and give you a brief update of things:
-Things with Brandon are... eh. I honestly don't know how things are going. The last post I made, I talked about how everything was, and how I was head over heels, madly in love with him. Well, I still do love him, but, as my Nana said it, "The twinkle in your eye is gone." And, it's true. I told him last night, that I don't feel special to him anymore. And, when people don't feel special to someone, it makes them not want to spend time with them. Because, why spend your time with something or someone who you do not feel complete and total joy? Well, I'm in the process of getting things back on track. I've expressed my concerns to him, so I hope that WE can work on it.
-I am working around 20-25 hours a week at California Pizza Kitchen, and I LOVE it! I'm a host right now, but will hopefully, someday, move up to a server. I really enjoy my time at work. And, it's kind of sad, sometimes I enjoy time at work more than I enjoy time with Brandon. I think, the deal with Brandon is, that it's not what either of us expected so, "We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned, so we can have the life that He planned for us." Anyways, work is great. If you're ever in the Temecula area, come in and visit me!
-The Singles Branch is GREAT! We have a statewide YSA Conference coming up in a few weeks, and it's going to be really fun. It's kind of going to be like a mini-EFY, but for YSAs. I have made a lot of new friends this summer, through the branch, and I'm so grateful for that. I've made some new friends, that I will hopefully be able to hold on to in Provo.

I guess that that's really all that has been going on in my Big Adventure called Life. I will try and keep y'all better posted. But, we'll see how it goes (with as busy as I am). lol. Love ya!

Pictures of me and Brandon at Harveston Lake

This is one of the pictures of us at Harveston Lake. It was taken in June, sometime. And then edited by one of my very good friends: Debbie.

"I can almost see it, that dream I'm dreaming"

I honestly cannot believe that I am writing this. After last week, I didn't think it was possible. But, I am so totally 100% head over heels IN LOVE with Brandon Alexander Adawi!

I guess that I will start with Sunday. Not this past Sunday, but the Sunday before. Basically, Brandon was RUDE to me. He was more rude to me than anyone had ever been. He maybe said 2 words to me, but other than that... NOTHING. (That is the summarized, nicer version of what happened.) Now, I will jump to Tuesday. By Tuesday, I hadn't heard from Brandon at all, so I called him and told him that we needed to talk. He came right over and we sat and talked. Well, the night before, I had prayed for Heavenly Father to give me strength throughout it all. I told him that I was so hurt by how he had treated me, and that it wasn't ok. He then told me that his parents had talked to him, and they told him that I wasn't ever going to be a good "home manager" and all of this bad stuff. I was surprised with myself, I didn't talk through the entire conversation that we had. He told me that the reason he was so mean to me on Sunday was because he didn't want to accept the fact that it was over between us. But, then he said that he thought he needed to date other people from our singles branch. WTF, right? I wasn't thrilled with the idea, but if that was what he thought would be best, than ok. So, I went to work, a little frustrated, but it was all good. I came home, and at about 10:30, I got a phone call from Brandon. He asked if I wanted to go running with him in the morning. WTF, again, right? I told him I didn't know what to say, that he wanted to date other people, so I didn't think it would be good. I told him that he broke up with me, so I needed to get over him. And, I told him that if he wanted to date other people, than I was going to, too. I think that's what really got him. I went on to tell him how I know him and his family better than people might think. I described personality traits in every single one of them. We ended the phone call, and I was feeling so confused.

Wednesday morning, I woke up at 8:15 and at 8:17 my phone rang, it was Brandon. He asked me if we could talk, I asked when, and he said, "Now, I'm outside." I looked, and sure enough, he was! I told him that he would have to wait, because I needed to take a shower. I dilly dallied getting ready, because I wanted him to wait for a little while. I went out to his car, and sitting on my seat there was a long stem red rose. We went for a little drive over to this fountain/pond thing. He told me that he had 2 things to tell me. First, he apologized for how he's been acting the past week, and asked if I would forgive him. He said that he knew he didn't deserve it, but that he was going to work for my forgiveness. Then, he said that he was totally in love with me and that he always had been. That he couldn't imagine life without me, and that he wasn't going to let anything get in the way of us. He said that he wasn't going to let his family control his life and our relationship anymore. He gave me a HUGE hug, and just held me for a little bit. We sat and talked about all sorts of things that have happened over the 2-years. Then, it started raining. He asked if he could hold my hand, and then we ran to the car to get out of the rain. We spent the rest of the day together, until I had to go to work. Things were just amazing.

I left for a few days on Thursday, and I didn't get to see him. But, he called me everyday while I was gone. I came back down to my Nana's house (where I'm living right now) on Sunday, and I went to my singles branch with one of my good friends. Brandon was there. He sat next to me and held my hand during sacrament. It was adorable. We sat together again in Sunday school, and he held my hand again. We both received callings that Sunday, so were set apart together. Then, I had an interview with my branch president, so he waited for me, and off we went to Break the Fast. After Break the Fast, we went back to my Nana's house to hangout for a little bit. We looked at a bunch of pictures that were taken while he was gone. Then, we went over to our friends house and played some games. My friend Melissa just kept commenting on how cute we are together. After games, he drove me home and told me that he would come over the next day.

Monday morning, he came over for a little bit and visited with me and my Nana. Then, he had to leave for a job interview. After his interview, he came back and had lunch with me and my Nana. It was just nice to get to spend time with him. He had another interview to go to, and told me that he would see me later that night at FHE. I went to FHE, where he taught the lesson. It was great. I went out with some friends after FHE, I missed Brandon the whole time, but I loved getting to spend even just a little bit of time with him that night. And, I had fun with my friends.

Tuesday, we both had some things to do, so he came over around 12:45 and we went out into "Wine Country". We walked around, and talked about all sorts of stuff. He told me how everything was going to work out between us, as long as we followed Heavenly Father (like I had been saying all along). We then went to a park that we went on one of our first dates to, and sat there for about 2 hours just talking. He then brought me back home and I got ready for work, and he drove me to work.

Yesterday, he came over around 11:00 and we went out to lunch. It was so nice to go "on a date" with him. Then, we came back to my Nana's house and played with my cousin at the park. It was adorable to get to see him interact with her. She's 4 and probably like 3 feet tall. Well, Brandon's 6'4" and it was just adorable seeing him play with her. Then, we came back here, to my Nana's, and watched the movie "Click". He hadn't seen it before. But, it was so nice to get to cuddle up with him and watch a movie. When the movie was over, we just cuddled and almost fell asleep. He had to leave at 5:00 to go home for lunch, but came back at about 6:45 to pick me up for a "branch activity". We got lost on the way to the activity, but it was kind of fun being lost with him. There's nothing like being lost with the man that you love. After the branch activity, our branch president's wife commented to me how cute Brandon and I are together. He drove me home, and the whole time, we talked about our future. And, about how his family wants him to date a girl like his sisters. It made me laugh, because he said that he would be miserable if he was with someone like his sisters. He told me that everything that he wants to do with his life doesn't have to be accomplished before he gets married, just that he wants to be financially independent from his parents. Idk, it was cute. We talked about a lot of different things. And then, when we got back to my Nana's house, he told me how much he loved me, and of course I told him I loved him too. Then, he looked at me and asked me if he could kiss me. I of course said yes, so he leaned over and kissed me! Seriously, things are going amazing. I love to spend time with him. I get butterflies when I know I'm going to see him, he makes me want to be a better person, and he truly does complete me.

I can't wait to see what will happen. I doubt that it will be long before "something good" happens between us. I love him and he loves me, and that's all that matters.

Finally, now my destiny can begin, though we will have our differences, something strange and new is happening.

So, I'm sure that most of you have been on the edge of your seats wanting to know what is going on with he and I. And, I'm glad to tell you that I finally have some sort of a story. I will start from Monday and end with I guess... now.

Monday morning, I woke up at 7:30. I was so anxious for this day, I couldn't even sleep. So, I got up and got ready for my interview that I had at 10:00. Right before I left for my interview, I had to calls come from a restricted number. They called and hung up within the first 15 seconds of me on the phone. I kept thinking, "what if that was Brandon? what if that was his family?" Well, I went to the job interview, did great. Got invited back for another interview the next day. So, after the interview, I went home to my gma's to sit and wait for the phone call. I was here all day, just waiting and waiting and waiting for his phone call. I found out what time his flight came into the airport and what time his layover was in Phoenix. I was expecting him to call me from Phoenix, but he didn't. I went to sleep feeling disappointed because he was supposed to call me and never did. I was CRYING (there is mascara on my pillow) like there was no tomorrow.

Tuesday, I woke up early again, awaiting a phone call. It never came. I was so frustrated, my gma told me just to call him and see what was going on. So, I did! I called, his mom answered the phone (uh oh!) She answered it so rude! It was like hello (like a very annoyed sound), then I asked if Brandon was there, she said yes and asked who was calling (as if she didn't know... hahaha!). Brandon got on the phone said, "Hi Terri!" He sounded very excited to hear from me, but kind of awkward at the same time. I told him I was calling to see how everything went. He told me that his flight came in the night before at 5:30, and that it was weird to put on "NORMAL" clothes. (that was when I knew that he got me 100 things to do when you get home from your mission, because that was one of the first things on the list!) He said that his parents were taking him out to lunch and on a tour of the city, and that he would call me later. I said ok. I wasn't THRILLED about the conversation, but at least I heard his voice. I had another interview later in the afternoon, I kept thinking that Brandon was going to call right in the middle of the interview, that would not be good! Well, he didn't call that afternoon, and I gave myself some therapy at the mall. I went shopping! Got 2 new shirts, 2 new pants, and a new pair of shoes. (shopping is the perfect therapy for me.) My gma and I went out to dinner and then I got a text from one of Brandon's old mission comps who lives here, he asked if I had heard from Brandon yet, I said no. He told me he was going to call and tell Brandon to call me. I told him that I didn't want to force Brandon into anything, but that if he felt he needed to, he could. Well, he called Brandon, Brandon was on exchanges with the missionaries (typical RM!). Brandon didn't call me that night.

Now, today, Wednesday, I woke up to a text at 7:45. It was from Brandon's old mission comp. He told me that he had good news and bad news. I just said, "Oh crap, are you serious?" Well, he told me stuff that I started freaking out over. I decided that I was going to call Brandon later today and give him an ultimatum, because I feel like I have not been treated the way I deserve, over the past few days. I went inside to talk to my gma (cuz I live in my gma's guest house). In the middle of the conversation with my gma, who calls? BRANDON! He asked if I would like to see him today I said, "Sure that sounds like it could work." (in my head I'm screaming YES! YES! YES!) He called at 8:45 and asked if I could meet in like an hour and a half or 2 hours. I told him I'd call him back and let him know what time, cuz I don't have a car and am at the mercy of my gma.

Well, we decided that we would meet at the library across the street from his house at 10:45. My gma made me fashionably late, I got there at 11:05. We decided that I had to wait 2 days, he could wait 20 minutes. He called me at 11:00 cuz he was worried (it was way cute!). When I got there, I saw him, but he was hunched over so it didn't really look like him. But, I went up and said hey, he stuck out his hand for me to shake it (that was weird!), I shook his hand and then told him that it was ok to hug me. He then gave me a hug. We talked for a good hour, then decided we could walk to his house. While we were up by the library talking, he kept telling me how good I looked and how pretty I was (YES! I was looking good!). Then, we took a walk around the park on our way back to his house. He told me how he didn't approve of how his family treated me, because they didn't know what was going on between he and I. AND, he told me that he definitely thinks his sister needs to mind her own business and worry about herself and her relationship, instead of his and mine! (YES!!!!) Then, when we got back to his house, I wasn't allowed to go in, because his parents weren't home. So, we sat on the porch swing out front (my favorite place in the world) and talked. We talked about us, and we decided that we were going to start it out as friends for now. And then I told him that I didn't think I could open up 100% to him as just a friend. He understood (because he knows my past) and said that he does see me in his future still. Well, after talking about all of that, for like 2&1/2 hours, my gma came and picked me up. He was SOOOO awkward, but I could see myself falling in love with him all over again.

When I got home (back to my gma's) I came in to the computer room, to write this discussion and not even 5 minutes after I got home, who called? BRANDON! We talked for OVER an hour! It wasn't awkward at all! It was like we got that awkwardness out of us, and we were back to the normal Terri. He told me that since he was gone 2 days longer than 2 years he owed me 2 "I miss yous". So, he said I miss you, twice. We talked about normal stuff, he told me that MOST if not ALL of the stories he used to tell me were made up. And then he laughed and said, "My life was so boring before I left, I had to make up the stories to entertain you. But now, my life is so interesting, I even get lost in my own house! I don't need to make up any stories anymore." We talked about going to the beach, and how I will have to wear a full body wet suit, because he doesn't want to lust over me, or break the law of chastity! hahaha. The phone call was AMAZING, and he promised me that he would call me back later today. We might hangout tomorrow during the day, and we've made it a goal to read the BoM TOGETHER. He said, "You can come over every night and read with me." I kind of laughed at that, because I know how his parents are, so I agreed that I could come over maybe a couple nights a week, and when I wasn't with him, we could read the same pages and talk about it over the phone or something. He wants me to read the BoM in Spanish with him (so, wish me luck ladies!). AND, on the phone, we started talking about how we are "just friends" right now. And he asked, "Well, how long do we have to be just friends?" I laughed and said, "As long as you want Brandon, you're the one who decided that, so it's as long as you want. It can be 1 days, 2 days, 1 week, a month. BUT, it's not going to be 15 years!!!" (cuz he told me he wants to get married in 15 years... HAHAHA!)

All in all, I think that things are going to get back to normal for us. Nothing can be the same twice, but things can be just as amazing, if not better. I learned so much throughout these 2 years, and I could not imagine not waiting for him! I love that kid! (oh, and he says that he's a man now... not a kid! hahaha) He also still doesn't think he deserves me... which I think that none of our guys when they get home feel like they deserve us. But, we know better than that. I'm not going to be in the 24-hour club, but I'm ok with that. We're taking things slow, which is ok. I don't want to rush anything and then scare the crap out of him. He served an AMAZING mission, and I am so proud of him! Girls, no matter what, it's worth it! Sorry it's so long... but it's been a long wait for me!

tomorrow, tomorrow...

It is finally here! Brandon is coming home TOMORROW! I don't know when exactly I will get to see him but his flight arrives at the Ontario airport, tomorrow. So, I'm very excited for him.
Also, I have a job interview at CPK in Temecula tomorrow morning. I'm way excited for that. The manager that called me for the interview told me that he has never interviewed someone who has worked for in-n-out that he hasn't hired. So, I'm hoping that's a good sign for me.
I will keep everyone posted on what is going on in my BIG ADVENTURE that I call life.

All I know is that whatever happens, I have to remember, "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about dancing in the rain." And, that I need to, "Listen to my head, but follow my heart. It is what will lead me to great places."

Love you all!

Holy Moley!

As I was sitting writing in my journal last night, it finally set in. He's coming home. Today is my last Tuesday without him here. Brandon will be home on Monday. It was weird to think about that yesterday, that he will be home in now, less than a week.
Last night, at FHE, everyone was talking to me about when Brandon comes home. And, it was weird to say, "Oh, he gets home a week from today." It really is weird.
Looking back on the time that I have waited, it doesn't seem like that much. It doesn't seem like it has already been 2 years. In the moment, the time cannot go any slower. But, now looking back, the time has really flown by. I'm going to list some of the things that happened in the 2-years that Brandon has been gone.

• Was baptized and confirmed a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
• Transferred jobs, from In-n-Out #33 to In-n-Out #167
• Made MANY new friends
• Went to the singles branch
• Went to numerous singles dances, with friends
• Was an EFY counselor
• Spent the summer away from home
• Moved to Provo, by myself
• Was completely self-sufficient in Provo
• Became a substitute teacher
• Was a transportation agent for an adolescent services company
• Had a fabulous time in Provo
• Got to know my roommates
• Found out how people really feel about me
• Became an aunt
• Made some new BEST friends
• Made 7 round trip trips from Utah to Chino, or vice versa, whether flying or driving
• Got to experience driving in the snow
• Saw all 4 seasons
• Grew more in love with Brandon, and found a new love for him as well

I'm Still Here

I cannot believe it. Many people doubted if I would still be here in the end of Brandon's mission, but look, I'm still here.
It's kind of surreal for me. I can't really believe that Brandon is coming home so soon. I'm very excited, but scared too. I don't know if I'll really believe that he is coming home, until that day. I think that then it will finally set in.
I have always been the kind of person who likes to prove people wrong. Growing up, I was kind of a "rebel" not in the way that I did all of these bad things. But, whenever someone told me that I couldn't do something, it was that much more of a challenge to prove that I could. And now, that Brandon has been gone almost 2-years, I feel like I have done it again. I have proved that love is strong enough to hold on for 2-years. I feel like I have proved that my love for Brandon is strong enough to make it 2-years without seeing each other, with only talking to each other ONCE, and only communicating through weekly letters or emails.
Sometimes, I can't believe that I really did it. In the beginning I kind of doubted if I really could do it. But, look I did! I didn't do it alone, by any means. If it weren't for Brandon obviously none of it would have been possible. My friends supported me throughout everything. At times when most people would have given up, they supported me and encouraged me to hold on to the love that Brandon and I have. My family criticized my decision to wait for him, but in the end they are so happy and proud of me, for staying with my decision to wait. They may not agree with the way that certain people have treated me throughout the "waiting process", but they are proud of me for being the bigger person throughout it all.
I'm excited for the next 2-weeks. I'm sure I'll be an emotional wreck, but I know that I have made it this far, so I can definitely handle the next 2-weeks.

The Call

I watched The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian, for the first time the other night. And, let me tell you, I LOVED it! I thought it was going to be dumb or something, but it was AMAZING.
Here's the clip of it from the movie, seriously, LOVE it.


This song is AMAZING for the movie, but it also reminds me of what I've gone through over the past 2-years. It reminds me of how things started with Brandon, and now how he is coming home.
Here are my favorite lyrics:
Now we're back to the beginning
It's just a feeling and no one knows yet
But just because they can't feel it too
Doesn't mean that you have to forget

Let your memories grow stronger and stronger
'Til they're before your eyes

You'll come back
When they call you
No need to say good bye

May 6th... what a day.

Holy Cow, it's hard to believe that my little brother is ALREADY 16. I remember the day that he was born. I remember sitting in the hospital waiting room, with Lauren. With our bag full of coloring books, reading books, and different things to do to keep us occupied while mom was in there delivering him. We got to the hospital at some time during the morning. But, Nathan wasn't born until 11:15 at night! So, for a 5 and 7 year old, it was a LONG day. I remember my Nana, Papa, my aunt Julie, and aunt Jennifer came and watched us and played with us. I remember getting to see my brother for the first time. He was so little, it's hard to believe that little baby boy is now my 6'1" brother. He has grown up so much and I love him more today than I ever could have thought possible.
It is no surprise to anyone who knows my family, that Nathan and I have not always gotten along, and we've not always been as close as we are today. But, I am so grateful to have him as my brother. He is an amazing brother and best friend to me. My brother, sister, and I are best friends, and I love them both so much.
Nathan tells me that he's not my "little" brother anymore, but that he's just my "younger" brother. As much as he may think that, he will always be my little brother.
This is the brother that I remember:And, this is the brother that I now know and love:
Now, thinking back to 2-years ago. It was a Sunday, and I wanted to go to church so bad. But, Nathan had a baseball game and the entire family was going to his game. I was very distraught and confused over what I should do. But, I decided that I would go to Nathan's game and then go to church with Brandon. The baseball game was fun, and it was nice to spend the morning with my family and celebrating Nathan's birthday. But then, I got to spend the afternoon at church and with Brandon and his family. I loved getting to spend any time with Brandon and his family. Brandon supported me in any decision that I made, and I'm so grateful for that.
Brandon and I at the Malibu mansion:

It's the final countdown!

I seriously cannot believe it! I'm finally in the final countdown, till when Brandon comes home. I never thought that it would come. I'm sure that people are freaking out that I am talking about him coming home, and that I'm counting down the last days. But, you know what? I've been waiting for what seems like FOREVER, for this. So, forgive me if I'm getting a little excited! He comes home 23 days from today! It's kind of weird thinking about what we were doing 2 years ago, today.

We went to Disneyland with Brian and Ashley. It was so much fun. It was kind of like Brandon and my last "event" together before he left. Yes, there were still 3 weeks until he left, but it was the last big thing that we were going to be doing. Brandon and I were like little kids when we went to Disneyland. It was so much fun, and we always seemed to get closer at Disneyland. Maybe we'll be able to go to Disneyland again, sometime, when he gets home.

Here are some pictures from our Disneyland trip.

The First 5

Okay, I have taken the challenge from my friend's mom (I know, weird. But, I thought it would be fun)!

This is not a joke. Please read below for the rules!!

Lucky YOU!
The first 5 people to respond to this post will get something made by me! My choice. For you. This offer does have some restrictions and limitations:
1. I make no guarantees that you will like what I make!
2. What I create will be just for you.
3. It'll be done this year.
4. You have no clue what it's going to be. It may be a story. It may be a picture of myself, or a handmade piece of artwork for your living room. I may bake you something. Who knows? Not you, that's for sure!
5. I reserve the right to do something extremely strange.
The catch? Oh, the catch is that you must repost this on your blog and offer the same to the first 5 people who do the same on your blog. The first 5 people to do so and leave a comment telling me they did win a FAB-U-LOUS homemade gift by me! Oh, and be sure to post a picture of what you win when you get it!

LETS PLAY!

running out of time

So, I'm starting to freak out! As you may have noticed from my little countdown that I've got, Brandon is coming home soon. Brandon is coming home soon, and I feel like I have got none of the things that I had planned to have accomplished, accomplished. I feel like I have been a failure these past 2-years. I know that it's not true, because I have grown leaps and bounds, but in actual things accomplished, I don't think I've got too many THINGS done.
As of right now, Brandon is coming home in 27 days. And, within 27 days, I would like to lose 20 pounds. Do I think that it's really going to happen? Ummm... no.
I would like to patch up the relationship between Brandon's family and myself. How I'm going to do that? I honestly have no clue! I feel like everything I do with that relationship is wrong. I feel like I can never do right, and that it is just hopeless. So, fixing a relationship where both sides feel that they are right, is a little difficult. But, I am willing to admit that I am not right, in an effort to fix this relationship with them.
I need to find a job! This is a MUST! I would like to get a job, so that I can have some money for a nice down payment on a car. I need to buy a car, because Freedom died in December, in Utah. And, I'm tired of being stuck at home unable to do anything, because I don't have a car. I feel like I am in high school again, depending on everyone else to drive me places. And, also I need a car, because when Brandon gets home, I'd like to be able to drive down and see him, without having my mommy drive me (like I'm a teenager without her license).

I seriously feel like I have so much to do, and so little time to do it. I'm starting to FREAK OUT! I'm running out of time!

there's no place like home, there's no place like home, there's no place like home

I've realized, that I haven't really posted yet, about how glad I am to be home.

I want to share a little bit, about my drive home to California. It was kind of interesting, to say the least. In Utah, when I left, it was nice and warm and sunny. I was kind of sad to be leaving on such a beautiful day. But, my mom had told me that it had been nice and hot back home, so I wasn't too worried. As I'm driving through Utah, the 3 hours it took to get to St. George, it was SOOO incredibly BORING! I kept almost falling asleep (and I wasn't even tired). I decided I would put my ipod on, instead of listening to the one CD that I had, and instead of trying to find a radio station in the middle of nowhere. Thank goodness I had my ipod. Without that, I probably would've died. It kept me awake, until the interesting part of the drive. The gorge between St. George and Mesquite. Once I finally made it to the gorge, it was all a matter of driving to "pit stops". I had my stop in Las Vegas (and then I knew that I was almost home). From Vegas, it only took my 3 hours to get home! But, I was scared out of my mind on the drive home from Vegas. And, here is why. I get to "State Line" and, I'm thinking to myself, "My, the clouds are looking awfully gray, and the wind sounds and feels like it is blowing pretty hard." And, my thoughts were right! As soon as I passed over the state line from Nevada to California, where I would normally be jamming out to the Beach Boys "California Girls", I was white knuckling it, trying to keep my car in my lane, and keep it from being blown over. It was probably one of the scariest driving conditions I've ever been in! I think if I had been out of the car, I would've blown over! That weather continued for the next hour or so, wind, sand storms, and rain! When I finally hit Barstow, the horrible weather had finally stopped. And, I couldn't help but sing to myself, "Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly. There's a land that I've heard of once in a lullaby." My land over the rainbow is home. There was a rainbow over the Cajon Pass, coming home, and it was like a perfect ending to my Provo Adventure.

Now, I am at home, and LOVING it! My mom hasn't started to drive me crazy, too much, yet! I can't wait to find a new job, and hopefully someday soon, buy a new car! I am loving getting to spend time with my family, and I actually have started to enjoy unpacking. I got most of my clothes unpacked today, and once I am able to put most of my stuff under my bed, I will have the rest of my stuff unpacked. I'm excited for the next month and a half. It's Nathan's birthday next week, Brandon comes home less than 3 weeks after that, my aunt gets married about 2 weeks after that, and it is all going to be amazing!