December came and it only has 2 days left... 2014is coming quick! This month is special for Mitch and I we were married December 15th in the Rexburg Idaho Temple.
December 2nd we celebrated Grandpa Forbush's 92 birthday! We had a little birthday party at the Homestead for him. I think he really enjoyed that.
We were able to make it to the Temple and participate in Temple sealing. It was a very sweet reminder of the covenants we made just one year before in the same Temple.
To celebrate our anniversary we went to Lava Hotsprings and stayed at a themed cozy hotel called the Lions Gate Manor it was a lot of fun except the power went out in the middle of the night and I got a little freaked out since we were thee only couple staying there that night. I thought we could possibly get murdered... what made it worse was Mitch was fast asleep and I lay there thinking of how we were going to die..but I woke up right next to Mitch the next morning, still alive and happy. The hotsprings were so nice and relaxing. Each pool was a different temperate so it was a perfect wintry night to soak and relax in those giant hot tubs. We got to see the Hobbit 2 on our way back home. That is a long movie, but we both liked it a lot. We ate at Olive Garden.. it was delicious! We were a little weirder out at our waiter.. he kept awkwardly touching Mitch's shoulder.. it was hilarious. To say the least it was a perfect weekend getaway to celebrate our first year of marriage.
The last week of school was the week before Christmas so Mitch was studying very hard for his final. He ended the class with a B and I am beyond proud of him. It was a 5 credit math class and he worked so hard. I finished another semester only 2 left and I will be done forever!!!!
The weekend before Christmas we went with the whole Merrill family to Big Sky Montana to go hit the slopes and stay in a cozy cabin. It was so much fun. Everybody was there including Grandpa Cliff Merrill and Quinn's girlfriend Brittany. We had a lot of fun snowboarding and making memories.
Christmas came!!! We mainly celebrated with the Merrills until Christmas day then we spent time with the Willmores post Christmas. It was so much fun. Just a few favorite gifts.. a new high tech camera, Mitch's first gun a ruger 22, gift cards, a plate of Grandma Patrick's , and a windows surface. We were spoiled. It was fun to see the people we had for Christmas open their gifts. This year I found myself reflecting on how grateful I am for my savior and for his birth. It is such a loving, giving season. My favorite part was the opportunity to doorbell ditch Christmas on the doorstep of a family in our ward that was less fortunate this year. It was so gratifying to know they were going to have something to open and have a ham to eat. My heart is very full with gratitude for my husband, family members, my calling, education, and the gospel of Jesus Christ. Here is to a wonderful year of 2013 and an even better one for 2014!!!
Sunday, December 29, 2013
November Turkey Dinner
November was a fun month! We spent the first part of the month busy with school and working. Mitch was helping with Christmas Décor hanging and prepping the lights for the crews. I was still busy just working in peds poking babies and cuddling newborns.. by the way my job does provide sufficient birth control... like when the crazy out of control children come in.. but at the same time I adore those perfect new little packages wrapped in pink or blue..
Anyway I am also working after hours in family medicine which let's me practice up on IVs and XRAYs which I love to do. So that has been a nice change.
Thanksgiving we spent in St. George with Grandma and Grandpa Reeser at their condo. We took the four-wheeler's and razors to play in the sand. It was around 65-70 degrees so that was enjoyable! We also got to see some dinosaur tracks, which were pretty cool. It was a long drive there and back, but we got to enjoy some black Friday shopping, yummy food and family which made it all worth it! Our thoughts were with Beth, she had to have surgery, and wasn't doing so well. I know my parents were concerned and worried about her and Jared. After a long haul she is finally recovering and feeling better. We are all so grateful for that and for the blessing of good health.
Anyway I am also working after hours in family medicine which let's me practice up on IVs and XRAYs which I love to do. So that has been a nice change.
Thanksgiving we spent in St. George with Grandma and Grandpa Reeser at their condo. We took the four-wheeler's and razors to play in the sand. It was around 65-70 degrees so that was enjoyable! We also got to see some dinosaur tracks, which were pretty cool. It was a long drive there and back, but we got to enjoy some black Friday shopping, yummy food and family which made it all worth it! Our thoughts were with Beth, she had to have surgery, and wasn't doing so well. I know my parents were concerned and worried about her and Jared. After a long haul she is finally recovering and feeling better. We are all so grateful for that and for the blessing of good health.
Sunday, November 3, 2013
October a little Sober
October seemed to come and go. This month went by so quickly. This month also had some heartache and tears. Mitch's sweet Grandma Patrick passed away on October 9th 2013. Helen Patrick the sweetest lady I have yet to meet. She was 88 years old with a beautiful smile and beautiful grey hair. I first met Helen a week or so after Mitch and I got engaged. He took to me to meet his grandma and so was so excited to introduce her to me. Once we got to her sweet and humble home I could instantly tell why Mitch loved his grandma so much. She welcomed us into her cozy home. I also met Uncle Jim for the first time too, who is Marianne's younger brother. Helen was so kind to me. She gave me one of those grandma hugs. She then had has us sit and chat with her. She told us the story of how her and Jack (Grandpa Patrick) first met at the ice cream parlor in Blackfoot. It was a pretty cute story and I could just picture Helen young and sweet taking Jack's order and letting him know that any date she had ever been on the guy asked. :) So I got to know Helen more and more each time we got together with the Merrill's and Helen would come to Rexburg, usually with Grandpa Merrill. She came to my bridal shower and gave me and beautiful pink soft afghan. She was so sweet to come and make an appearance. She braved the freezing cold, snowy, winter wedding day on the 15th of December to be there and support Mitch and I. She even remembered my birthday in February. I quickly realized how lucky I was to have another grandma. Mitch loved his grandma dearly and we both found ourselves crying the day we found out of her passing. At her funeral I learned two thing about Helen Patrick. She loved everyone she came in contact with and she was a loyal woman. She was loyal to her family, her husband, and the gospel. She always said her prayers. She was a faithful woman throughout all of her trials and tribulations. She was quote woman- that is one thing I have in common with her. I love quotes as well. So to read all the quotes on her fridge made me smile and giggle. I believe that you only collect things that make you who you are. Many of the quotes she had were definitions of how she lived her life. Helen Patrick will definitely be missed, but not forgotten. She is know with Jack, her husband. Mitch and I were able to realize and remember the plan of salvation. We know that we will see her again someday. I think that is why we can go forward with faith, in fact I know that is why we can go forward trying to be better each and every day. Thank you to Helen Patrick for being such a wonderful grandma to my sweet husband. Thank you for loving him and sending him sweet letters while he was on a mission. Thank you for accepting me as another granddaughter. You will always have a special place in our hearts.
The rest of October was slightly a blur and all of the sudden it was Halloween. With school, work, and different responsibilities we have been pretty busy, but also plenty happy too. We still manage to laugh each day. Mitch seriously gets me to laugh no matter what has happened that day. It is secret talent of his. He is my favorite person. I love being married to him. I love him so much. We just keep our heads up and enjoy what is going on in our life. We dressed up as an Indian and a Cowboy this year for Halloween and had some fun with that.
Life is going well. The gospel is true and blesses our lives daily. Mitch helps me be better every single day.. also On the 15th of October Mitch surprised me with some beautiful flowers at work. I was surprised and tickled that he had them delivered. He is pretty romantic. I am pretty darn lucky.
He is working so hard with his Pre-calculus class. I hope and pray the Lord will bless him for his efforts.
Our ward's theme is "Come Unto Christ" So I personally and striving for this. What am I doing to come closer to my Savior?
Today I was reading in the Book of Mormon and came across this scripture in Omni chapter 1:
" 26. And now, my beloved brethren, I would that ye should acome unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and boffer your whole souls as an coffering unto him, and continue in dfasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved.
The week will be a wonderful week. :) Bring on Monday and probably snow.. it was a whole 35 degrees today with freezing cold North wind! Here come the Holidays! :)
The rest of October was slightly a blur and all of the sudden it was Halloween. With school, work, and different responsibilities we have been pretty busy, but also plenty happy too. We still manage to laugh each day. Mitch seriously gets me to laugh no matter what has happened that day. It is secret talent of his. He is my favorite person. I love being married to him. I love him so much. We just keep our heads up and enjoy what is going on in our life. We dressed up as an Indian and a Cowboy this year for Halloween and had some fun with that.
Life is going well. The gospel is true and blesses our lives daily. Mitch helps me be better every single day.. also On the 15th of October Mitch surprised me with some beautiful flowers at work. I was surprised and tickled that he had them delivered. He is pretty romantic. I am pretty darn lucky.
He is working so hard with his Pre-calculus class. I hope and pray the Lord will bless him for his efforts.
Our ward's theme is "Come Unto Christ" So I personally and striving for this. What am I doing to come closer to my Savior?
Today I was reading in the Book of Mormon and came across this scripture in Omni chapter 1:
" 26. And now, my beloved brethren, I would that ye should acome unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and boffer your whole souls as an coffering unto him, and continue in dfasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved.
The week will be a wonderful week. :) Bring on Monday and probably snow.. it was a whole 35 degrees today with freezing cold North wind! Here come the Holidays! :)
Sunday, October 27, 2013
September 2013
September was an eventful month! Filled with lots of fun things and school.
Mitch and I are only taking 5 credits each this semester. I am taking 2 online classes and Mitch has a 7:45am pre-calculus class every day... so with work and school we both stay pretty busy, but school and work are blessings in our lives. So we have nothing to complain about. We still have plenty of time for flag football, football games on TV.. and Mitch reading about football... and spending time with friends and family!
Disneyland with the Merrill clan was a September highlight! It was a blast. We had a great time everybody was able to come. Heath and Trish and of course there crazy fun kids Rhett, Breelee, and little Wyatt. Quinn came from Arizona and he brought a lovely lady, Brittany. Chase and Jenna and there little cute ones Charlotte and Buddha Belly Charlie came along to. Jerry and Marianne treated us to two days in Disneyland and to the warm weather of California. We had a blast watching all the kids just indulge all that Disneyland offers. It was so fun to see their faces light up as we walked in and they saw the castle. Mitch and I had so much getting fast passes and riding as many possible rides as we could. Mitch talked me into the California SCREAMIN' and good heck I was screaming that entire ride.. every time we went on it. It was so much fun. We made some great memories with everyone. We spent some time at the beach playing in the sand and water. It was just so relaxing and fun to be with everyone. We ate some delicious food. We walked up and down and all around California Adventure and Disneyland. It was a great family trip. Thanks to Marianne for making the arrangements and putting such a fun family trip together.
Mitch and I are only taking 5 credits each this semester. I am taking 2 online classes and Mitch has a 7:45am pre-calculus class every day... so with work and school we both stay pretty busy, but school and work are blessings in our lives. So we have nothing to complain about. We still have plenty of time for flag football, football games on TV.. and Mitch reading about football... and spending time with friends and family!
Disneyland with the Merrill clan was a September highlight! It was a blast. We had a great time everybody was able to come. Heath and Trish and of course there crazy fun kids Rhett, Breelee, and little Wyatt. Quinn came from Arizona and he brought a lovely lady, Brittany. Chase and Jenna and there little cute ones Charlotte and Buddha Belly Charlie came along to. Jerry and Marianne treated us to two days in Disneyland and to the warm weather of California. We had a blast watching all the kids just indulge all that Disneyland offers. It was so fun to see their faces light up as we walked in and they saw the castle. Mitch and I had so much getting fast passes and riding as many possible rides as we could. Mitch talked me into the California SCREAMIN' and good heck I was screaming that entire ride.. every time we went on it. It was so much fun. We made some great memories with everyone. We spent some time at the beach playing in the sand and water. It was just so relaxing and fun to be with everyone. We ate some delicious food. We walked up and down and all around California Adventure and Disneyland. It was a great family trip. Thanks to Marianne for making the arrangements and putting such a fun family trip together.
Monday, September 9, 2013
NEW YORK CITY 2013
This adventure was not in the plans for a few years, but with the exciting circumstances and awesome in-laws we were able to make it back to NYC to spend 4 day where Mitch served and loved his mission for 2 years. We took a red-eye flight and arrived at JFK airport at 6am and the Velligeas (Members in the inwood ward- aka- awesome family) picked us up from the airport and took us to their apartment. They let us sleep there our entire stay... Squishy living quarters- we slept in bunk-beds :) but it was definitely fun to live like a New Yorker for a weekend. Kirt Davis came along with us, which made it even more fun!
New York life is FAST pace. My first time in the subway (underground transportation) was a larger black homeless man sprawled on the cement... I had to step by him to go through the gates. I was a little taken off guard, and maybe held my breath a little bit because he was kind of stinky. Mitch just watched my reaction to the typical Subway everyday scene and started to laugh and with a smirk he said, " Welcome to New York Becca!"
so...Day 1- We hadn't slept for 48 hours but we didn't care we were off to sight see! Our first destination was 9/11 memorial. This was a very special place. I was in the 4th grade when the 9/11 attack happened. So to be in the very place where such a devastating event occurred in our nation's history was very humbling. There was two large water falls in the place of the 2 towers foundations. The names of the individuals lost in the tragedy were written on the side of monument. The mood was quiet and sober. There was only one tree that survived the attack and is still standing today.
After 9/11 we headed down the famous Wall Street and Financial District area. We were able to see where George Washington our first President was inaugurated- then I got to tell Mitch I shared the same birthday as that great man. I've always been pretty happy about that interesting fact. We got to take a picture with the famous Bull... pictures to follow. All during this great tour we also got drenched by the pouring rain. Just warm enough to not be miserable. So we got wet. But we liked it and still continued our tour. We headed to the Statue of Liberty. This was such an awesome tour around this huge Statue- which was actually a gift from France. I learned a bunch of cool facts as we toured the " big lady" - in Mitch's words. We took a ferry to Ellis Island to where the Statue is mounted. It was fun to see the city from the Hudson River. Lady Liberty was pretty awesome. After Lady Liberty we went to eat some food at a famous hamburger joint Shake Shack- it was pretty delicious! Then we kept on bookin' it we then went to CHINATOWN- This place was literally China. Asian people were everywhere- it was like we had taken a flight to china. We did some shopping/bargaining with the Asian population. It was a hoot trying to get them to lower their price from $48 dollars to $20bucks. We had fun! Then after chinatown we headed to Times Square- yes if you are curious my feet were hurting about this point. We entered the most WORLDLY place I have yet been. As we walked around times square there was so many many people and so many many stores. It was a crowed happenin' place to be and things to see. It was fun to see all the people and see all the big billboards, like big movie screens. Everything was giant. It was quite a day. I think we got to bed around 3am. exhausted.
Day 2 Woke up at 10am... we hadn't slept for 48 hours so it was well justified. We woke up feeling much better and ready to get-up and go have some more fun. Friday was filled with Central Park. Mitch and I rented bikes for a total of 4 hours.. got lost.. fought about which direction to go.. found our way.. and had a blast all in the mean time. Mitch even managed to sit on some gross red gum some child had left behind.. behind.. Mitch got the gum on his behind. Central Park was so much fun. Everything in Central Park is on a grand scale. nothing is little.. Big play grounds, big Fountain of Love. It's the coolest park in the world. There is so much to do and see. We witnessed a few lesbian and gay couples gettting married. Such a weird, sad and confused sight to see. We explored all around. We were also entertained by a black rap/acrobats/wewantyoumoney group. They were very entertaining and got a $1 from us. By the time we hoped off the bikes and our legs felt like jelly we headed to Times Square once again. We headed to the TOP OF THE ROCK. The Rockefeller building is very tall- so tall we could see all of Central Park and the entire city. WE could even see the Empire State Building. It was a very breath-taking view. It was so neat to see so many sky-scrapers with this giant park in the middle of all of them. Everything smaller then a building looked like tiny dots and ants from our view point..We grabbed some dinner close to where we had been exploring. While eating some delicious food, we noticed Kirt- My cousin, Mitch's former Mission companion had some how managed to sit on some gum as well. Mitch and Kirt both had gum bums... No wonder they got along so well... :)
We met up with Trish and Health (Mitch's Oldest Sister and Brother in-law, Who were also in New York celebrating their 10 year anniversary)
How fun right?! Well we all went to NEWSIES a spectacular Broadway play. Mitch's family grew up watching that show and I had seen it 4 or 5 times. It is definitely a classic. We loved that play! I kept waiting for just a little mistake and there never was one. Broadway Performers are so talented and so dedicated to what they do. It was incredible and so fun to enjoy the songs we loved and the dance scenes they performed so well. It was great. We then continued to explore Time's Square laughing and giggling because people watching is sooo entertaining in New York City.
... For example a few things we witnessed... Excuse me for the vulgar scenes..
1. A couple kissing for 10 minutes consecutively right next to a homeless man snoring in the subway- hilarious.
2. A woman breast feeding her 3 year-old child with a sign that read- "help feed us"
3. A homeless and obvious roughed up woman going #2 on the steps on the Public Library in Times Square..
Extreme examples... but I found that everything in New York City is extreme that is what makes it so unique such a popular and crowded famous place.
Back to Friday night.. We headed to the Cake Boss shop- The famous TV show with Buddy who makes extravagant cakes or deserts for any possible occasion you can have a cake. We all indulged and ate 1,000 calories, but it was sure delicious. I felt like I had walked 10,000 miles that day anyways so I was justified.
Time for bed.. 2am..
Day 3 We spent this day in a place called Washington Heights. Mitch and Kirt served here and absolutely love this place. It is mainly populated with Dominican Republicans and they live the New York life style. We ate some yummy New York Pizza at a place called Pizza Heroes. It was delicious and the slices are the size of a medium size pizza you would order from the Rexburg Domino's. We did some shopping with street vendors and just enjoyed walking around and sight seeing. Mitch had plenty of memories flood into his mind and he told me stories of walking down the streets of Washington Heights.
4:30pm came and it was the time we had truly been waiting for and main reason we came to New York, to go to the temple and participate in a session with 5 recent converts... all of which Mitch knew very well while serving as a Missionary.
It was a special day. Milagros and Jose were a very special couple that Mitch and Kirt grew to know and love. So to see these two people who had completely had a change of heart, except the gospel and now enter into the Lord's house was a major missionary pay-day! It was so neat to meet so many people in the temple that Mitch had served. I found it very humbling that the majority of them were telling me how great of a missionary Mitch was. I loved hearing stories and seeing them so excited to see Mitch and Kirt. They loved the people of New York and the People of New York loved them.
That particular temple session was very special also because Mitch and I were able to take through family names. Marianne had found through family research on the Patrick side- which is very rare and has taken a lot of time. My heart was just so full and filled with loved. The spirit was so strong and everyone in attendance could feel the sweetness of being at the temple that evening. This made the trip completely worth no sleeping. I hope I can always remember the way I felt in the Temple that day. I was so overcome with love for Mitch and for all those surrounding us. I can only image what it will be like when we someday can be all together in a beautiful place after this mortal life.
After the temple we went and spent time at the home of Milagros and Jose. We had Pizza and spent a fun evening with each others company. Milagros showed me her 1.5 bedroom apt. which houses 5 people. It is a small place, but largely filled with love. We had fun spending time with Milargros, Jose, Stephanie and Jason. Mitch and Kirt spent some quality time playing the Xbox with Jason since they finally could play. No more missionary rules.
We went to bed late, but very happy.
Day 4- Sunday, We went to church at 10:30 at the Inwood Ward. Everybody was so thrilled and happy to see the return of these two great missionaries and I might add it was super fun being the wife of Mitch. Everyone was so excited and happy we were married. There were plenty of "Next time we see you, you'll have 3 kids Elder Merrill" type of jokes. But we loved it.
The church is true all over the world. As I was sitting in Relief Society and missing my ladies in our 32nd married student ward at BYU-Idaho I still felt the spirit and I could see the power that relief society offers to sisters whether in NYC or Rexburg.
After the meetings- there was a Linger- Longer. Everyone brought some yummy food and we spent some time getting to know the members. Mitch introduced me to everyone in the Inwood ward and the Spanish ward.. haha a lot of people, but awesome people. Milagros made some delicious ribs- her cooking is very good.
We said our Good Byes- and we were off. Back to Idaho around 7:30pm our flight took off.
We had a fabulous trip.
Someday we will go again.
NYC 2013
New York life is FAST pace. My first time in the subway (underground transportation) was a larger black homeless man sprawled on the cement... I had to step by him to go through the gates. I was a little taken off guard, and maybe held my breath a little bit because he was kind of stinky. Mitch just watched my reaction to the typical Subway everyday scene and started to laugh and with a smirk he said, " Welcome to New York Becca!"
so...Day 1- We hadn't slept for 48 hours but we didn't care we were off to sight see! Our first destination was 9/11 memorial. This was a very special place. I was in the 4th grade when the 9/11 attack happened. So to be in the very place where such a devastating event occurred in our nation's history was very humbling. There was two large water falls in the place of the 2 towers foundations. The names of the individuals lost in the tragedy were written on the side of monument. The mood was quiet and sober. There was only one tree that survived the attack and is still standing today.
After 9/11 we headed down the famous Wall Street and Financial District area. We were able to see where George Washington our first President was inaugurated- then I got to tell Mitch I shared the same birthday as that great man. I've always been pretty happy about that interesting fact. We got to take a picture with the famous Bull... pictures to follow. All during this great tour we also got drenched by the pouring rain. Just warm enough to not be miserable. So we got wet. But we liked it and still continued our tour. We headed to the Statue of Liberty. This was such an awesome tour around this huge Statue- which was actually a gift from France. I learned a bunch of cool facts as we toured the " big lady" - in Mitch's words. We took a ferry to Ellis Island to where the Statue is mounted. It was fun to see the city from the Hudson River. Lady Liberty was pretty awesome. After Lady Liberty we went to eat some food at a famous hamburger joint Shake Shack- it was pretty delicious! Then we kept on bookin' it we then went to CHINATOWN- This place was literally China. Asian people were everywhere- it was like we had taken a flight to china. We did some shopping/bargaining with the Asian population. It was a hoot trying to get them to lower their price from $48 dollars to $20bucks. We had fun! Then after chinatown we headed to Times Square- yes if you are curious my feet were hurting about this point. We entered the most WORLDLY place I have yet been. As we walked around times square there was so many many people and so many many stores. It was a crowed happenin' place to be and things to see. It was fun to see all the people and see all the big billboards, like big movie screens. Everything was giant. It was quite a day. I think we got to bed around 3am. exhausted.
Day 2 Woke up at 10am... we hadn't slept for 48 hours so it was well justified. We woke up feeling much better and ready to get-up and go have some more fun. Friday was filled with Central Park. Mitch and I rented bikes for a total of 4 hours.. got lost.. fought about which direction to go.. found our way.. and had a blast all in the mean time. Mitch even managed to sit on some gross red gum some child had left behind.. behind.. Mitch got the gum on his behind. Central Park was so much fun. Everything in Central Park is on a grand scale. nothing is little.. Big play grounds, big Fountain of Love. It's the coolest park in the world. There is so much to do and see. We witnessed a few lesbian and gay couples gettting married. Such a weird, sad and confused sight to see. We explored all around. We were also entertained by a black rap/acrobats/wewantyoumoney group. They were very entertaining and got a $1 from us. By the time we hoped off the bikes and our legs felt like jelly we headed to Times Square once again. We headed to the TOP OF THE ROCK. The Rockefeller building is very tall- so tall we could see all of Central Park and the entire city. WE could even see the Empire State Building. It was a very breath-taking view. It was so neat to see so many sky-scrapers with this giant park in the middle of all of them. Everything smaller then a building looked like tiny dots and ants from our view point..We grabbed some dinner close to where we had been exploring. While eating some delicious food, we noticed Kirt- My cousin, Mitch's former Mission companion had some how managed to sit on some gum as well. Mitch and Kirt both had gum bums... No wonder they got along so well... :)
We met up with Trish and Health (Mitch's Oldest Sister and Brother in-law, Who were also in New York celebrating their 10 year anniversary)
How fun right?! Well we all went to NEWSIES a spectacular Broadway play. Mitch's family grew up watching that show and I had seen it 4 or 5 times. It is definitely a classic. We loved that play! I kept waiting for just a little mistake and there never was one. Broadway Performers are so talented and so dedicated to what they do. It was incredible and so fun to enjoy the songs we loved and the dance scenes they performed so well. It was great. We then continued to explore Time's Square laughing and giggling because people watching is sooo entertaining in New York City.
... For example a few things we witnessed... Excuse me for the vulgar scenes..
1. A couple kissing for 10 minutes consecutively right next to a homeless man snoring in the subway- hilarious.
2. A woman breast feeding her 3 year-old child with a sign that read- "help feed us"
3. A homeless and obvious roughed up woman going #2 on the steps on the Public Library in Times Square..
Extreme examples... but I found that everything in New York City is extreme that is what makes it so unique such a popular and crowded famous place.
Back to Friday night.. We headed to the Cake Boss shop- The famous TV show with Buddy who makes extravagant cakes or deserts for any possible occasion you can have a cake. We all indulged and ate 1,000 calories, but it was sure delicious. I felt like I had walked 10,000 miles that day anyways so I was justified.
Time for bed.. 2am..
Day 3 We spent this day in a place called Washington Heights. Mitch and Kirt served here and absolutely love this place. It is mainly populated with Dominican Republicans and they live the New York life style. We ate some yummy New York Pizza at a place called Pizza Heroes. It was delicious and the slices are the size of a medium size pizza you would order from the Rexburg Domino's. We did some shopping with street vendors and just enjoyed walking around and sight seeing. Mitch had plenty of memories flood into his mind and he told me stories of walking down the streets of Washington Heights.
4:30pm came and it was the time we had truly been waiting for and main reason we came to New York, to go to the temple and participate in a session with 5 recent converts... all of which Mitch knew very well while serving as a Missionary.
It was a special day. Milagros and Jose were a very special couple that Mitch and Kirt grew to know and love. So to see these two people who had completely had a change of heart, except the gospel and now enter into the Lord's house was a major missionary pay-day! It was so neat to meet so many people in the temple that Mitch had served. I found it very humbling that the majority of them were telling me how great of a missionary Mitch was. I loved hearing stories and seeing them so excited to see Mitch and Kirt. They loved the people of New York and the People of New York loved them.
That particular temple session was very special also because Mitch and I were able to take through family names. Marianne had found through family research on the Patrick side- which is very rare and has taken a lot of time. My heart was just so full and filled with loved. The spirit was so strong and everyone in attendance could feel the sweetness of being at the temple that evening. This made the trip completely worth no sleeping. I hope I can always remember the way I felt in the Temple that day. I was so overcome with love for Mitch and for all those surrounding us. I can only image what it will be like when we someday can be all together in a beautiful place after this mortal life.
After the temple we went and spent time at the home of Milagros and Jose. We had Pizza and spent a fun evening with each others company. Milagros showed me her 1.5 bedroom apt. which houses 5 people. It is a small place, but largely filled with love. We had fun spending time with Milargros, Jose, Stephanie and Jason. Mitch and Kirt spent some quality time playing the Xbox with Jason since they finally could play. No more missionary rules.
We went to bed late, but very happy.
Day 4- Sunday, We went to church at 10:30 at the Inwood Ward. Everybody was so thrilled and happy to see the return of these two great missionaries and I might add it was super fun being the wife of Mitch. Everyone was so excited and happy we were married. There were plenty of "Next time we see you, you'll have 3 kids Elder Merrill" type of jokes. But we loved it.
The church is true all over the world. As I was sitting in Relief Society and missing my ladies in our 32nd married student ward at BYU-Idaho I still felt the spirit and I could see the power that relief society offers to sisters whether in NYC or Rexburg.
After the meetings- there was a Linger- Longer. Everyone brought some yummy food and we spent some time getting to know the members. Mitch introduced me to everyone in the Inwood ward and the Spanish ward.. haha a lot of people, but awesome people. Milagros made some delicious ribs- her cooking is very good.
We said our Good Byes- and we were off. Back to Idaho around 7:30pm our flight took off.
We had a fabulous trip.
Someday we will go again.
NYC 2013
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Bear Lake-Paris 2013
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| Papa on the ski's |
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| In the Caves! |
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| Mitch Killin' it |
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| Family Picture |
Bear Lake-
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| Hannah Banana playing in the sand! |
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| In the Caves! |
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| Grandpa and Mason |
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| Becca |
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| Beach Time |
We went to Paris Springs and Mitch was able to see how pretty that country of Paris really is :) The Idaho Paris anyways.
Everyone had a great time. Memories were made and it was such a fun time playing in the sun, but more importantly just spending time as a family.
Friday, August 2, 2013
July-Flew-Bye
July was a great month!
Mitch finished up with the semester, he was a bit happy to be done and have a nice 7 week break.
I got my official Registered Nursing License. Glorious. Passed the NLCEX.
The 4th was fun! We spent time with Willmore Family and Merrill Family.
Celebrated Dad's 52nd Birthday and Hit up the Thomason's pool party with the Merrill gang.
Other then Mitch having horrible bites all over his body we still managed to watch some fireworks, eat some delicious food and celebrate this great nation we live in.
We also hit up a few family reunions. Mitch met the Willmore clan and I met the Merrill Clan.
It was really fun to meet and greet so many wonderful people on both sides of our family. The Willmore's absolutely loved Mitch and getting to know him.
I have to admit Mitch's family wins by quite a bit with categories of Southern Hospitality and Musically talented.
I was amazed and brought to tears as we attended the Merrill family reunion program. I learned a little bit more about the heritage Mitch comes from. Mitch comes from a wonderful family. I feel so blessed to now be apart of such a great family name. :)
We have successfully seen all 3 playmill plays up in West Yellowstone. We love the playmill and the fudge :)
Beauty and the Beast.
Fiddler of the Roof.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
We Loved them all!
I absolutely love summer and the family memories that are made. Looking forward to many more family reunions. It is hard to believe Mitch and I have been married for almost 8 months... I love him even more.
Oh.. and I was called to be Relief Society President in our married ward and Mitch got called to be Gospel Doctrine Teacher back in June so we have been buys this month with new callings. We loved teaching Marriage and Family relations together, but there is a reason for everything.
So yeah we are just a little bit busy, but loving life.
Mitch finished up with the semester, he was a bit happy to be done and have a nice 7 week break.
I got my official Registered Nursing License. Glorious. Passed the NLCEX.
The 4th was fun! We spent time with Willmore Family and Merrill Family.
Celebrated Dad's 52nd Birthday and Hit up the Thomason's pool party with the Merrill gang.
Other then Mitch having horrible bites all over his body we still managed to watch some fireworks, eat some delicious food and celebrate this great nation we live in.
We also hit up a few family reunions. Mitch met the Willmore clan and I met the Merrill Clan.
It was really fun to meet and greet so many wonderful people on both sides of our family. The Willmore's absolutely loved Mitch and getting to know him.
I have to admit Mitch's family wins by quite a bit with categories of Southern Hospitality and Musically talented.
I was amazed and brought to tears as we attended the Merrill family reunion program. I learned a little bit more about the heritage Mitch comes from. Mitch comes from a wonderful family. I feel so blessed to now be apart of such a great family name. :)
We have successfully seen all 3 playmill plays up in West Yellowstone. We love the playmill and the fudge :)
Beauty and the Beast.
Fiddler of the Roof.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
We Loved them all!
I absolutely love summer and the family memories that are made. Looking forward to many more family reunions. It is hard to believe Mitch and I have been married for almost 8 months... I love him even more.
Oh.. and I was called to be Relief Society President in our married ward and Mitch got called to be Gospel Doctrine Teacher back in June so we have been buys this month with new callings. We loved teaching Marriage and Family relations together, but there is a reason for everything.
So yeah we are just a little bit busy, but loving life.
Arizona/Quinn/118Degrees/Fletchers Wedding
In June we flew out to Arizona to visit Quinn and attend one of Mitch's Mission companion's wedding. Elder Andrew Fletcher. He came to our wedding in December-the weather was freezing. So we wanted to make it to his wedding- the weather melted us.. literally.
A few highlights from our quick trip.
we got to see Quinn's house and enjoyed swimming in his backyard pool.
He took us all around Arizona and showed us some pretty cool places.
He definitely has found the delicious places to eat so we had some pretty tasty meals.
Quinn drove us to a beautiful site- we were able to see all of Arizona. It was breath taking.
My favorite thing I tasted in Arizona was a Mexican Popsicle IT WAS AMAZING- Creamy yummy pecan popsicle.
We were able to attend the Mesa Arizona Temple, it is absolutely beautiful. Each temple is so unique and has special meaning.
Andrew and Annika were a beautiful couple! We hope to meet up with them whenever we can.
Last of all but not least- I was brushing my teething.. and a medium size slimy covered gecko crawled right out of the sink hole and floated down the drain with my toothpaste. I had a mini panic attack. Quinn reports he has never seen a gecko in his house.. but I promise he had one in his pipes that morning. :)
It was a quick, blazing hot trip, but definitely worth it.
Friday, May 17, 2013
We got hitched.
I have been married to my wonderful husband who is sweet, handsome, rugged, chizzled, compassionate, bright, honest, hilarious... should I continue? Because I easily could.. for 5 months and 2 days. BEST 5 months and 2 days of my life. He is my best friend and I love him with my entire heart. I thought I loved him when I was crushing at age 14 1/2 and was merely "going out" with him. 7 years later I am married to him and love him even deeper. Mitch and I were married on December 15th 2012 in the Rexburg, Idaho Temple. There we were sealed for time and all eternity. It was a beautiful freezing winter day in Rexburg, yet we were so excited we didn't even notice the weather. It was just a perfect day. We spent our honeymoon on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Such a fun honeymoon! We loved every minute of it. Dolphins, Beach, Hiking, Swimming, PCC, Sun, PINEAPPLE, Honeymooners, Mopeds
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