the girl most likely...

lately.

2012-03-05T08:10:00.000-08:00

This last week was so busy, that all the Mister and I wanted to do come weekend was lay on park blankets, eat homemade food at our kitchen table, and play with Shuggie (whom, may I add is completely potty-trained now!). It's funny how much of a homebody I feel like I'm becoming, now that we have a dog. The transformation into "those people"--the ones that should probably hurry back because they've got to take their dog out--has begun full force. But we're embracin' it, because he's part of our family now and we love every single hilarious thing about him. p.s. Despite what the second to last image looks like, we don't give our puppy san pellegrino at the park. After it was gone, we filled it with water for the little guy.Hope your weekend was lovely!

under the boardwalk, down by the sea

2012-02-26T21:37:00.000-08:00

We introduced our pup to the ocean on Saturday, and witnessed what had to have been the best day of his life. Tyler and I were dying as he ran every direction, eating sand, chasing seaweed and going into complete sensory overload. He couldn't have cared less about the water itself, especially when there were people and tennis balls and other dogs to meet, but that didn't come as a total surprise. He's not a big fan of bathing, and the ocean probably looks like one giant bath to him. It felt so nice, though, being outside for an entire day. My normally-much-browner skin was in serious need of some vitamin D. (Lately, every time I go to buy make-up I realize I need lighter and lighter tones.) I'm already anxious to go back. Hope your weekend was filled with sunshine, friend.

our redhead.

2012-02-23T20:31:00.000-08:00

Things we're trying to teach Shuggie: earthworms and bark are not for consumption. That hooded guy who stands outside the gas station is not a godparent. Only fat dogs eat 800 times a day. Dancing in front of the mirror with a toy monkey in your mouth is more than acceptable. Putting your face in front of my computer screen will not keep me from blogging/internet-browsing. Barking is just something other dogs do. The only people that require a pillow at bedtime should be Tyler and I. Jumping off the bed and falling into the splits should probably just be a one time thing. And lastly, to speak English. (Tyler's determined.)

most likely to wear green pants to the caterpillar party

2012-02-21T19:20:00.000-08:00

My Mom and Dad have been anxious to meet our bug-eyed puppy, so we packed our stuff and spent the long weekend with my family in Sacramento. I wasn't totally sure how it was going to go, with the dogs my parents have and us in the process of potty-training, but it ended up being totally fine. In fact, I think it's helped Shuggie with the whole "bathroom" thing. We felt like the proudest parents introducing him to everyone, and just as we hoped they would,everyone fell madly in love with him. I even heard my mom refer to him as her "grandpuppy". And since we were close enough, we were able to attend a 1st birthday party for my cousin's little boy! It was Very Hungry Caterpillar themed, and so outrageously cute that I was left wondering how anyone can host that kind of party AND be the mama of the one-year-old? Everything was hand-made and oh yeah, and those are actually ice-cream cupcakes. I wish I had some images to share of baby Davis, but my camera ruined them all.

my penpal.

2012-02-16T23:52:00.000-08:00

Since I don't get to talk to her on the phone, Hayley girl and I have been writing each other.
I haven't had a penpal in such a long time, and I'm loving it.

from a lamp to a puppy.

2012-02-15T01:16:00.000-08:00

In comparison to last year's Valentines day gift (hanging lamp), this year's wins. After all, you can't cuddle with a lamp, or watch it do hilarious things like lick it's reflection in the mirror. You most definitely can't buy it ridiculous zip-ups or put balloons around it's neck for Valentine's day. And I haven't asked him, but I think Tyler agrees. Especially because he keeps telling me that this is "the best decision we've ever made. Apart from deciding to marry each other". His name is Shuggie! (Pronounced like sugar. Minus the -ar, sub an -ee sound), named after Shuggie Otis. He's a red Boston Terrier, just four months old. We found him through a breeder online, and almost as soon as I saw his picture I knew I wanted to meet him. Naturally, my canine-obsessed husband was thrilled. We picked him up on Saturday morning, and the entertainment has been ongoing since.Hope your Valentines was fun! Here's to love, weekends, puppies, and Wednesday.

please excuse me...

2012-02-06T23:59:00.000-08:00

Please excuse me while I check right on out of 2012 and check into 1919 for a while.(Taking nothing but some ice-cream and my husband with me.)I would say I'll be back soon, but truth is, I'm not sure. The dresses are just so lovely here. If you haven't seen Downton Abbey on T.V., I'm seriously recommending it. The cinematography is beautiful, and so is the story line. All the splendor of Jane Austen, with some added complexity. Imagine Pride and Prejudice, but in episodes. And faster plot movement. Tyler even likes it. Gotta go! Mathew's coming home from the war tonight, and things are nowhere near ready. Happy Monday,darlings!

he came. he saw. he conquered.

2012-02-01T00:36:00.000-08:00

John (or Prince John as we like to call him), has had a special place in my heart since the moment he barreled into Tyler's old living room sporting animal themed pajama pants and introduced himself. It's always been obvious to me why Tyler likes him so much, and when he told us he was planning on flying out to San Jose to spend last weekend with us, we were thrilled. The night before he got here, I was so excited I stayed up until two in the morning baking cookies and rearranging things in our place. We hadn't seen him since our wedding, and so many things have changed, even since then. It was so nice to show him our new hometown--he even came to my Sunday school class and met all my students! Southern California is feeling much too far away.

these are the days and the nights

2012-01-30T07:37:00.000-08:00

Ate at a diner in a town none of us had ever been to. Saw some California Redwoods.
Drove with the windows down. Listened to stories about life in Irvine. Told stories about life in San Jose.
Wandered to a park. Let the sun warm our skin.Contemplated seriously about getting a puppy.
Donuts at Stan's. Tea in our living room. If only the weekend could have stayed a while longer...

it's Friday!

2012-01-27T08:02:00.000-08:00

I stayed up late last night making cookies to celebrate today. Oatmeal chocolate chip, to be exact.
If you lived in my pocket, I'd share with you. Hope your weekend's sweet, pretties!
(photo of the mister and me taken outside of Hakone Gardens on Saturday.)

lettuce heads and normal life.

2012-01-25T00:44:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been bringing a grocery list and pen to the store.
Less to remember items, more because it feels good to cross everything off.

hello, beautiful.

2012-01-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

Early Saturday morning Tyler and I partook of the single best donuts either of us have eaten to date! They're from a family owned and operated little shop called "Stan's" in Santa Clara. Sugar donut for me. Glazed for him. I now understand what the 487 reviews on Yelp were all about. The outside may not look like much, but the goods are good. I'm having so much fun lately, exploring this city with my love. There are so many hidden gems. Tyler and I are excited to share a few this weekend with one of our best friends, flying in from Irvine to hang out with us. I have a feeling this spot will be among the first places we venture to.

a trip to Hakone Gardens

2012-01-22T19:04:00.000-08:00

My love and I spent Saturday in the oldest Japanese-style residential garden in the Western Hemisphere.
Just fifteen minutes from our house. After reading about it online recently, I've been tempted to see it for myself.
It was even prettier than I expected. Hope your weekend turned out to be lovely.

what Harry and Mr. Fredricksen have in common.

2012-01-19T23:40:00.000-08:00

There are eight teenage boys sporting Justin Beiber haircuts sitting three feet to my right. They're whispering so quietly that nobody can actually tell what they’re saying, but everyone knows when one of them has just said something funny, because their manes start swaying this and that way. Directly in front of me are four or five older teens I recognize from my Sunday school class. To my left are the teeny bop babes. Maintaining almost uncomfortable eye contact. I've just been given the "alright, take it away" look from one of the only other adults in the room, and I take a second before I begin. A strange flashback to something I once heard in a college science class pops into my mind--how a certain species of ants shouldn't necessarily to be feared individually but when their numbers are great and they're surrounding you…you’re a goner. Please don't end me, whispery and yet attentive fleet of teenage ants.

"the skit is going to be judged on eight things, " I sort of blurt out.

So far everyone's listening. I take a second to make sure. Good ants. I read the criteria.

“So what would each of you be willing to do to contribute?”

Blank stares.

“Alright, how about we just go down the line, and each of you give me one or two things you might like to do for the church skit we’ll be performing in March. “

More blank stares.

I begin to wonder if the element of surprise might help this along, and so I just start calling on people. It works, and the next thing I know I’ve got a list of strange/normal/unexpected talents these kids are willing to contribute. Among them: break dance skills. Hiking gear. Tap dancing. Etc. I look down at the list and conceal a smile, because I’m still alive, and this is going way better than I thought it would.

But there’s still some confusion, so I explain to the kids exactly what we’re going to be doing: writing an original nine minute skit, to be preformed in March with 7 other groups of kids doing the exact same thing. They’ve got some questions as to how much creative freedom we really have, what with our topic being church-related and assigned, but I make it clear that the skies the limit. Oh, and the budget’s 100 dollars. So, maybe more like the ceiling. The ceiling’s the limit. And that’s when the chaos breaks out.

“BATMAN SHOULD BE THE THEME!”
“No way! Zombies. Obviously.”
“Marlee, can we do a western?”
“CAN WE BASE IT OFF OF BILL AND TED’S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE?!”
“I want to play the cello in it.”
“If she plays the cello, can I play my flute?”
“What exactly is the rule on incorporating rated R movies into our spiritual theme?”
“I would have no problem with being cast as the lead actress.”

I let them go real wild for a minute, and then I hold my arm up for a reason completely unknown to me. Parting the Red Sea of noise? To my surprise… silence. I mention that I’ll be choosing everyone’s roles, and each and every kid will be put to use. I am literally making this stuff up as I go.

We work on ideas for a theme for a while, but everyone’s divided. Luckily, I’ve been watching a lot of Parks and Recreation, and consequently asking myself what Lezlie Knope would do in circumstances. Since we couldn’t exactly hold a public forum, we split into groups, choose a spokesman, give three minute long speeches about why one group‘s theme should be chosen, and vote. Thanks, Lez. We do, and the winning theme is “movies”. Movies chosen? Up, Harry Potter, a western, and Batman.

So friends, stay tuned for a nine minute long skit that incorporates tap-dance, said four movies, spirituality, a cello, a fleet of teens, cowboys, Indians, and original music. And yours truly? Just Director/Producer/Responsible. Pray for me.

family albums.

2012-01-17T00:19:00.000-08:00

Anna and my brother recently shared some of their heart-breakingly beautiful wedding photos online,
and they're so good, I've been wanting to share a few. Rebekah Westover did a pretty lovely job, I think.
Looking at these makes me crave a trip to Utah. It really is such a beautiful state.

an ikea date, a train ride, and a little bit of the Beatles

2012-01-16T08:24:00.000-08:00

Real adults own dressers. Shoe racks. Coffee tables. Put their possessions on shelves and in closets. What real adults don't do is keep a pile of their electronics (among a few other things) near their bedside because they don't have anywhere for them.Tyler and I thought it might be a good idea to become real adults this weekend. And after just one ikea date Friday night, we are pretty much set. (That store is amazing! Even if it is one massively decorated maze.) While listening to the Beatles last night, we began putting together our furniture. It was taking both of us not to go a little crazy, what with the directions not including a single written instruction, but we managed to get through it. A couple of dance party breaks in the living room and it's amazing what you can accomplish.

this weekend...

2012-01-13T08:20:00.000-08:00

is going to be good. I couldn't be happier to see it's face. Hope you have a good one!
See you Mondee.

Je t'aime.

2012-01-10T03:20:00.000-08:00

This weekend will be the last that the mister and I see of my sister for a while. She's off to embark on a not-so-little adventure in France!( Nice, France, to be exact.) I'm thrilled for her, even though she's practically the only person I text on a regular basis and I'll undoubtedly miss her terribly. Thankfully, she's promised to take loads of pictures and skype Tyler and I on a the regular. But we'll see how often that actually happens. I've been looking at pictures of the destination spot online, and it's far too beautiful to be indoors on a laptop. She leaves in just a few weeks, and the closer the date gets the more real I think it feels for her. And my parents. As in pepper spray in her stocking this year. p.s.photo booth photos taken in lovely San Francisco, last week while everyone was in town.

a day in the city with my family

2012-01-06T02:20:00.000-08:00

My love and I spent Monday wandering around San Francisco with my (whole) family.
We ate fish sandwiches, stumbled upon an old arcade, and had our fortunes printed (from a machine grandma!).
It was pretty wonderful. Happy weekend! p.s. my fortune told me i'm going to have friends try and persuade
me to get into gambling, and to avoid it at all costs. Good thing Tyler and I are totally poor.

memory, I want to keep you.

2012-01-05T00:51:00.000-08:00

We're about to start cooking dinner together when Tyler's phone rings. It's one of his best friends and so naturally, he answers it. I decide to go ahead and start chopping up vegetables, because I might as well get things started. A little time passes, and so I grate cheese. Slice the bread. Grill the dish. I glance at the clock and realize it's dark outside. This call is kind of turning this "cooking dinner together" thing into a cooking on my own thing. When he gets off the phone he realizes how long he's been. He sees that everything's done, and suspects that maybe I'm a little disappointed. Because even though he's mine for forever, I'm in love with him, and get greedy. We sit down for a dinner prayer and he wants to say it. I oblige. It starts off normally... "we're thankful for our family and our friends", "our health and home"..."and the hands that prepared this food...The sole hands that put this meal together, that labored without help, completely on their own. The hands of my beautiful wife, Marlee." I'm smiling ear to ear at this point. Eyes closed. Trying really hard not to laugh--because we're praying, after all. He finishes and without sneaking a look, starts eating. After a few seconds I'm kissing his cheek and we're both laughing. And then I finish my food. Smiling the whole time.

let them eat (ice-cream) cake.

2012-01-04T02:28:00.000-08:00

We've got a lot to celebrate over here, as of late. A new year! Some R and R after a long semester. Upcoming birthdays for both Ryan and Hayley girl. A new job for yours truly, and currently, Chad and Anna in our living room (visiting from Salty City). They're considering moving out here when they finish school, so we're showing them around, trying to sell them on our city. We almost never have visitors, and so naturally Tyler and I are thrilled. Vacuumed and everything. We agreed earlier that we need to have visitors over more often! The house would be so much cleaner.

hello, 2012!

2012-01-02T12:00:00.000-08:00

On New Year's eve Tyler and I went downtown with my siblings and joined a crowd of people dancing outside to live music.
It was hilarious, made even better when the lead vocalist for the band started singing every song to my sister.
(Her boyfriend was in Arizona working at the time, so sadly wasn't able to witness this.) We were dying.
Poor guy had no idea she would belong only to her iphone at midnight. (And don't worry we got out of there before he could ask.)
Fireworks followed our little dance party, and of course, kisses at midnight.It was one I won't forget.
Happy New Year!

no longer locked out

2011-12-30T00:41:00.000-08:00

The NBA lockout was hard on my husband, emotionally. Mostly joking. But seriously, a little. Night after night he'd be up in our bedroom, reading and listening to updates on deals deemed unfit by the players, or rejected by the owners. It was a sad sight. But I'm happy to report that since the season's started back up, he's a much healthier and happier man. Just look at that smile from last night's game at Arco Arena (kings vs. bulls!). Much happier than how he looked candle shopping with me a few days ago at anthropologie--let's put it that way.

I guess it might also have had a little something to do with getting to watch our favorite rookie, Jimmer, play for my hometown. My family was so excited to hear he was coming to Sacramento, we couldn't resist getting tickets for last night's game since we're all here for the second half of our Christmas break. And even though we lost, we still had a great time. I so rarely get to be with all of my kin: Chad, Anna, Hayley, Ryan, and my parents. It's so nice.

Happy weekend, friend. Hope your break's been good. I feel like it's flying by. It's already New Years eve tomorrow night?! I'm really excited about spending this one with my mister. Because believe it or not...I've never had a New Year's kiss before. (Last year Tyler was in New York, and I was in California with my family.) Happy New Year!

my wedding day!

2011-12-29T14:20:00.000-08:00

All photos by Gideon Photography.

the zoo, part two

2011-12-27T22:42:00.000-08:00

1.my very favorite zoo animal: pink flamingos. 2.giraffe trivia. 3.Cici lovin' on Uncle Tyler.
4.rhino wall. 5.my love and I. 6.distracting the wild animals from the actual animals.

at the zoo

2011-12-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

I think this video pretty much sums up anything I could say about yesterday or our trip so far.
Filmed and edited by Tyler and yours truly. Merry Christmas eve!

and speaking of my wedding day...

2011-12-22T22:52:00.000-08:00

I am well aware that I owe you some photos. It's been six months, after all.
I'm just trying to decide which ones to share (a time-consuming thing when you've got a couple hundred to pick from).
But it's been fun, and I'm happy to report that next week will be my wedding show-and-tell.
I'm really excited, and hope you like 'em as much as Tyler and me. Happy Friday, friend!
Photo by Gideon Photography.

six months, this month...

2011-12-21T23:08:00.000-08:00

I married the tall, dark, and handsome man.This is a photo taken from that day.One of the happiest of my life.

texas forever

2011-12-20T21:40:00.000-08:00

We're here! The Lone Star State. Reunited with the wild animals, my in-laws, and a new little niece you've yet to meet-just one month old. Tyler and I awoke this morning to four little ones filing one by one into our room and onto our bed. And even though my eyes felt swollen from hitting the hay at 3 AM last night, I couldn't have been happier to see their faces. I missed them more than I realized, I think. We got to spend our whole day just hanging out and catching up with them. (It's amazing how much can change in a few months. Audrey, like, totally has a boyfriend now.) But the best things are the same. Cici still calls me "Mawree". Adam still thinks "butt" and "baby head" are the worst of insults. Rachel is still so beautiful, and Audrey continues to give the best hugs. One week here is going to be too short. Mark my words.

free at last!

2011-12-15T07:40:00.000-08:00

Tyler's a free man. Finals are over! I'm so happy and proud of my love.
He studied so much harder than I'd ever be able to do. Hours and days and weekends at our kitchen table. But it's paid off, and now...
We're half way through our first semester of law school! We've been celebrating this week with movies, dessert, and little date nights.
We even got an empty theater all to ourselves last night, to see our latest pick.
Happy Thursday, friend.

animal tracks

2011-12-12T21:25:00.000-08:00

This has got to be the prettiest thing I've heard in a while. Been humming the chorus to myself since I woke up this morning. Maybe it's the harmonies, or the fact that I used to sing and play like this with Hayley almost nightly while I lived in Utah. I don't know. But for whatever reason, I love it. Hope you enjoy these sirens as much as I do. Here's to a fresh work week and T-minus six days until we head to Houston for Christmas! Did I mention that's where we'll be spending the holiday? We can't wait.

my mamma's nativity

2011-12-09T01:14:00.000-08:00

My mom bought this little nativity while vacationing in mexico a few years ago, and it's probably my favorite of her collection. It made me happy to see it laid out on my childhood piano, recently. Someday when we're not poor newlyweds, I'd like one just like it. Happy weekend!

ivy walls outside our home and sunshine

2011-12-07T22:48:00.000-08:00

These are the things that have been making me happy this week. Oh, and a little note from a new friend. It really does mean a lot to me to hear from you, or see that I've got a new "follower". As much as this blog is for Tyler and I, it's allowed me to meet and get to know a lot of you. And let's face it, Tyler and I don't have a whole 'lot of friends out here in bay, yet. We need all the electronic ones we can get. In short, I love you. Hope your week has been peachy!

our weekend

2011-12-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

This place is an hour from our front door. Can you believe it?! We got to spend some time here recently, with one of our best friends visiting from Salt Lake. It was easily the highlight of my weekend, and made us miss our Utah people. Visit us more often, won't you?

"oops"

2011-12-03T12:52:00.000-08:00

I could blame it on the fact that Tyler's in the midst of final exams right now, but the truth is: we are completely unprepared for Christmas, and I'm not sure school has anything to do with it. I'm beginning to think we need one of those chocolate-count-down calendars to help us realize we're kind of running out of time, too. It's not like we don't see our friends putting up trees and lights. We do! Even point out cute decorations to each other on Instagram. But we smile, admire, and then pop in another disc of Modern Family season 1.

I'm starting to worry we won't even get a Christmas card done this year--especially since Tyler won't give up the idea of me stuffing pillows in my shirt and passing as Santa for the picture. Honestly, I've repeated at least five times I will not dress up as Santa, The Grinch, or Marley from A Christmas Carol. (Please note not one of his suggestions for me are female.)

So decorate your houses for the both of us this year, will ya? I promise to put up some mistletoe, at the very least. And hopefully a mini tree! It is our first Christmas, after all. And if you can think of a Christmas card idea that doesn't involve me wearing a beard or chains, feel free to pass along your suggestions. Happy weekend!

home again

2011-11-28T11:27:00.000-08:00

For no real reason, we opened a bottle of sparkling cider at midnight last night. (In our effort to welcome Hayley to the bay last week, we picked up a few. Don't laugh.) It feels good to be home, back in our city. Here's to a fresh week, and the fact that now we can all start plotting Christmas!

most likely to be completely useless for an entire week

2011-11-25T16:11:00.000-08:00

1. Hayley girl just helping everyone stay focused at the store. 2. Short break from helping with Thanksgiving dinner to snap pictures outside. 3.Obviously, helping my dad shop on Black Friday. 4. Boosting everyone's self confidence in game-playing abilities by losing 18/20 games of sequence. 5. Helping my mom find use in her old socks.

happy turkey day!

2011-11-24T02:46:00.000-08:00

At ten o' clock last night we went out for pancakes and eggs as a family. (Breakfast food at night is one of my very favorite things!) Then we laid around in my old room and told stories until gradually the tired made their way to bed. I am oh-so thankful for this holiday, and for merely the chance to do this-eat together and laugh in childhood rooms. Happy Thanksgiving! I hope it's a good one. Tyler and I are in charge of cooking a few things today, so um...wish us luck.

pre-birthday festivities in the city

2011-11-21T16:39:00.000-08:00

He was one happy boy about this festivity, in particular.
Hope your weekend was fun! Tyler and I are lovin' finally getting to spend time with the cute girl in stripes featured above. Happy Monday, friend.

today belongs to my love.

2011-11-21T12:45:00.000-08:00

I am married to a low-maintenance man. The kind that asks for a neck rub and " I don't know...maybe a vegetable platter?" for his upcoming birthday. It's wonderful, (and hilarious) because since he has such low expectations, I almost always exceed them. And the next thing you know he's going on and on about how special I've made the morning, when I've done little more than set some blueberry muffins on the table. Hooray for easily satisfied husbands! Oh, and Safeway for providing the lovely little vegetable platter sitting in our fridge today.
Happy 28th, love.

happy weekend.

2011-11-18T13:56:00.001-08:00

This video is the prettiest, and matches the weather outside today. Happy weekend, friend!

guess who is coming to visit this weekend?!

2011-11-15T12:50:00.000-08:00

Hayley girl! (Not accompanied by the boy to her left.) Turns out her wisdom teeth need taking out, and since her dentist is here in California, she's due for a trip. Tyler and I are thrilled. With his birthday and Thanksgiving next week, it's perfect timing! Turns out I'm thankful for minor oral surgeries.
Hope your week is filled with good news!

the black keys in the rain.

2011-11-14T15:01:00.000-08:00

My love took me to the Black Keys this weekend! We sang along to just about every song and got drenched in the rain. After being responsible students and jobholders for five days in a row it felt oh-so-good. We also ordered pizza, stayed up late, watched a lot of TV, and slept in this weekend. So take that, adulthood.

fall leaves and Miss. Billie Holiday on repeat

2011-11-08T14:31:00.000-08:00

These are the things that have got me feeling wonderful today.

migrate West

2011-11-04T09:45:00.000-07:00

I took this photo November of last year, when I was still a Utah resident. It's a good reminder for why moving to California was a good idea. Snow before Thanksgiving?! How about you all migrate West? We get some friends, and you never have to worry about ice on your car again. Deal?

new in November.

2011-11-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

Sunday was so good for me. I was given a calling in our ward (that's like a job, in our church) to be the Sunday school teacher to the 15 to 18-year-olds! I'm really excited, but a little nervous. I am, after all, only a few years older than some of them. Twenty two, remember? Luckily, Tyler was told he could sit in on my lessons, and help me when I need him. Because teaching is what I eventually want to be doing, this is going to be good for me. Not to mention, church is a completely different experience when you're going every week to serve. I just hope they don't eat me alive or sit there and refuse to do anything. I'm thinking I'll bake cookies just in case.

a little family tradition: Apple Hill

2011-10-30T21:15:00.000-07:00

I am of the firm belief that green apples should only ever be eaten when covered in caramel. Or chocolate. Or both.
Hope your weekend was yummy.

the train to home.

2011-10-28T08:58:00.000-07:00

I took the train to my parents house for the weekend! Tyler is meeting us out here in a few hours. I am lovin' life.
Have a fun weekend!
(photo of my mama's roses, taken by yours truly with a 35 mm film camera.)

pretty mugs and a week off work.

2011-10-25T20:51:00.000-07:00

These are the things that are making me happy right now.

"ain't no love, in the heart of the city"

2011-10-23T18:09:00.000-07:00

I watched my man's heart break on Saturday. His Utes, who we were so excited to see play in San Francisco, failed him. Not even ice-cream helped.

the reason I completely neglected my husband on Saturday

2011-10-19T10:31:00.000-07:00

A few months back, Hayley girl went almost completely immobile for three days straight. It was the strangest thing. I would come home from work or school, and there she would be. Reading in bed. I remember taking some mental note about the book--about how it was part of a series, I think--but who knows where that went. Anyways, recently I experienced it. The paralysis. From the same novel. So please people, tell me. Have you read The Hunger Games? I've heard some complaints, about "graphic killings" and how "dark it is", but I couldn't put it down. Really, I didn't. My entire Saturday was spent in bed, reading. I kept waiting for Tyler to complain or say something like "it's almost six and you still haven't showered!", but he'd just smile whenever I'd get really excited or nervous. (Concerned for a second, when I started crying about mid-way through.) I guess it's because he's just right for me. If you've read the series, don't tell me what happens in the second or third book, okay? I need to see this Peeta, Gale, Katniss thing unfold all on my own. When I have a few days to do absolutely nothing :)

eye candy.

2011-10-16T23:06:00.000-07:00

There is a shop in Santa Rosa, that has every kind of candy you can think of. It's incredible, and my man was in heaven. (I'm less of a candy girl, and more of an ice-cream and cookie girl.) He may or may not have gotten a three-foot-long candy snake that was gone in seriously ten minutes. I wasn't even mad that he didn't share either, because I was so impressed. Happy Mondee, friend!

tea for two.

2011-10-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

Maybe this makes me a weirdo, but I packed tea bags in my purse for our Santa Rosa excursion. I think I had a feeling we were going to pull into the city and realize all we really wanted to do was relax and drink something warm. (And have you tried Tazo's Passion fruit tea? No caffeine either, so you can drink it late at night!) Anyways, that's exactly what happened. We talked about getting dressed up and going out, but tea for two on cotton sheets just sounded way better.

pumpkin patching in Santa Rosa!

2011-10-11T15:08:00.000-07:00

Since it's October and all, we thought it might be fun to visit a pumpkin patch in Santa Rosa. Almost as soon as we'd arrived Tyler made a comment about us being the only people at the place without a 2-year-old. And it was kind of true. But with or without a wheelbarrow full of children, it's fun. We each picked out our favorite ones, and then spent a little time watching kids freak out in the petting zoo.

darling, let's be adventurers.

2011-10-10T23:10:00.000-07:00

The Mr. picked me up from work on Friday with a really big smile and a not-so-little surprise. He asked whether or not I wanted to go on an adventure, to which I responded with a really big smile. It was a completely unexpected road trip...and everything I never knew I always wanted. We ate hamburgers in the car, fell in love with a few little shops, and drove along the prettiest coastline. Now I know why people say such good things about Santa Rosa. I took three cameras (a little over the top?) and snapped a whole heap of photos. So here's your first batch! All film. Taken with my fuji instax wide.
Hope your weekend was romantic!

because it's Friday...

2011-10-07T10:29:00.000-07:00

I don't normally write about my day job on here, but this is too good to go without posting.
A few days ago I mentioned (to the little boy I nanny for), that I've been missin' my sister.
Below is the note I received from him the following day. It's had me smiling all week. Especially the second to last sentence.

Dear Miss. Marlee,
I understand that you are in a difficult situation.
You do not see your sister.
I know you will see her soon though.
Things will get better.
Thumbs up. Soar high.
Good job.
-Chris

Happy Friday, friend. Hope this weekend is good to you!
p.s. Doesn't it sort of look like Hayley girl is knocking me out in this picture?
Photo by: my husband.

memory, I want to keep you.

2011-10-04T23:25:00.000-07:00

"Marlee. Let's live here for a long time.""Okay. I don't want to move, ever.""I'll practice law, and you can open up a vintage shop for fun. Write music. Whatever you want.""And before we have babies,maybe spend a few years inside the city.""It's a little colder there.""That might be nice, sometimes.""Okay. Let's."psst..engagement photo by Jimmy Bishop of Gideon Photography.

the surrogate parents return!

2011-10-02T19:14:00.000-07:00

Comfy clothes all weekend? Yes. Big breakfasts after sleeping in? Yes.An inspiring conference? Yes. A trip to the movies with a tall, dark, and handsome man? Yes.$24,00 on theater treats? Uhh...Yes.In bed by eleven both nights? Yes--what is happening to me?!An episode of "The Sing Off", because my cousin is on it this season?! Yes. (His name is Mckay, and he's in Vocal Point! If you get a chance to watch, you should! The season premiere blew me away.)Whispers in my ear from a husband who likes to make me laugh? Yes. A weekend that has me feeling new, and happy? Oh, yes. Hope your weekend felt just as good!p.s. image to the left taken by the tall, dark, and handsome man. Mentioned earlier.

what we've been singing and dancin' to.

2011-09-30T09:04:00.000-07:00

It's a full on love affair now. Stuck in my head constantly. The entire album. If you haven't already, go get it. And have a lovely weekend!

playing house!

2011-09-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Mr. and I are going to be playing Mom and Dad for my younger brother, while my parents party in Las Vegas. (And by party, I mean spend time in the city for a work convention. )I'm excited, because not only does that mean we get to spend some time with the little man, but watch conference at home!I see banana pancakes and some beautiful new direction in my immediate future.

kind of embarrassed and kind of proud of the following image.

2011-09-26T13:45:00.000-07:00

But if you're going out to sushi with your husband on Friday night...and you're hungry and happy and haven't been on a date in 7 days,...then why shouldn't you order four plates of sushi, and three appetizers?! Right?

animalistic

2011-09-23T11:25:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, my man and I decided to venture somewhere new for lunch. We found Crawdaddy, this little place in San Jose that essentially brings you a bag of Cajun cooked shrimp or seafood, and gives you some napkins. It was amazing. At first I was pretty nervous about the prospect of ripping heads and legs off our food, but I was wrong. Loved it. Happy Friday! Hope you get to do something fun!

a house divided

2011-09-20T12:23:00.000-07:00

My college (BYU) played Samuel T.'s ( the U of U) in football over the weekend.I don't wanna talk about it. It was rough. Dessert pizza was the highlight of my night.

our little home.

2011-09-16T08:31:00.000-07:00

The Mr. and I are speaking in church on Sunday. It's got me thinking a lot about the home I grew up in and the one we're making for ourselves. Wish us luck! We might need it, since neither of us have even started writing. Happy Friday, friends.

happy tuesday!

2011-09-13T11:54:00.000-07:00

Hope it's peachy.

most likely to be a skilled moral supporter

2011-09-11T17:48:00.000-07:00

A few winters back, I thought it might be fun to join an intramurals soccer team with Hayley girl and a few of my cousins. I hadn't played since, well...elementary, but I thought it might be like riding a bike? The rest of the story is almost too embarrassing to admit, so let's just say that I was "out of practice", the reason for multiple goals scored against us, and almost immediately made back-up goalie. Apparently, nobody thought to tell me we were competing in an advanced league, with girls who had been playing their entire lives! Luckily Hayley girl and the rest of the rest of my teammates were incredible, and totally made up for what little I was bringing to the table. (Which was sometimes only orange slices.) Believe it or not, we even made it to the championship game. And won! I've got the tee-shirt to prove it.Anyway, there's really only one person to blame for my shortage of skills, and that's my little brother, Ryan. They all must have been allotted to him, for the present when he would be playing varsity for his high school. Tyler and I drove down for his tournament over the weekend, to watch him play and spend some time hangin' out with my family. It was so much fun, and he did great. Honor has been restored to the family name.

The only other neck I'm okay with Samuel T. touching

2011-09-07T11:03:00.000-07:00

The neck of our guitar. We rented movies last night, only to ditch them on the table and pick up this pretty instrument. We've been playing and singing before bed as of late, and it's become my favorite part of the day.

fog covered coastlines and new friends.

2011-09-05T14:08:00.000-07:00

The Mr. and I spent our Saturday in Santa Cruz! His cute friend, Sophia, invited us up for homemade pizza and a sleepover at her beach house. At first I was hoping it would be sunny (you know, swim-worthy weather) but when I saw how pretty the coastline was covered in fog, I didn't complain. Hope your labor-free weekend has been peachy. p.s. And if you're wondering whether I own anything other than that creamy chiffon skirt (also seen in my last post), I want you to know that I do. Promise.

memory lane.

2011-08-31T12:41:00.000-07:00

Before we were wed.
But after we knew we were going to be.
(photo by Amber Henrie.)

our pretty neighbor: San Francisco

2011-08-29T15:01:00.000-07:00

I think there's part of me that always knew I'd end up living close to the water in the West. And now that we're here, for whatever reason it feels right. Tyler and I were talking about it yesterday, on our way home from church. And maybe it's the way that everything has fallen into place, or how welcoming the congregation was yesterday, or the fact that I like the idea of living close to the ocean...I don't know. But we love it here. Saturday we visited our new neighbor, San Francisco, for an all-day date! It was just what the doctor ordered after an insanely busy week.

a little reunion.

2011-08-25T18:28:00.000-07:00

While in Sacramento, I got to see my best friend from high school.
I can't tell you how happy it made me.
I've loved her from the moment she she offered me her spongebob pillow at girls camp when I got sick and mentioned I'd forgotten one. Age twelve.
It was a reunion long overdue, and oh-so-sweet!
Hope you're spending your week with loved ones. Happy Thursday.

underwater creatures.

2011-08-22T17:46:00.000-07:00

We spent some time in the water on Saturday!
Mostly voluntary, but not entirely.
You see, Tyler gets impatient when I tell him I like to 'get in at my own pace', and likes to tackle me right into the water.
I hate it at first, complain a little, and then swim happily.
Hope your weekend was fun!
p.s. Underwater cameras are my new favorite.

summer is good for popsicles.

2011-08-18T02:00:00.000-07:00

And marrying, too. At least this summer has been. In my family. People keep saying things like "your poor parents!" when they learn that there was only one month in between weddings. I tell them that they're tired, naturally, but besides us newlyweds, I think they're smiling the biggest. I'm currently in Sacramento, getting things ready for Chad and Anna's reception Friday. Husbandless, sadly. Remember how I told you once that law school was going to steal him? On the bright side, Hayley girl flew in for the festivities, which means...all of my siblings under the same roof again! Life is good.

our weekend.

2011-08-15T11:04:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday, friends!
Hope your weekend was dreamy.
Ours was just the right amount of blueberry muffins,church, movies, and bike rides to the park.

the boy I sit with at the coin laundry.

2011-08-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I sneak pictures of Samuel T. when he's not looking.
I can normally get two or three in before he catches me and gives me the "you're embarrassing me" look.
They always end up being my favorite.

the day my brother bagged a betty.

2011-08-12T10:47:00.000-07:00

1. one of the prettiest cakes I've ever seen. 2. Hayley girl and the groom! 3. Anna. Glowing. 4. Bridesmaids. (I'm the one on the far right, looking pale next to Hayley.) 5. Sundance decor. 6. love.

and it sounds like hallelujah.

2011-08-11T11:59:00.000-07:00

We're in good moods over here, and the reason might sound...strange: we're no longer homeless! We found somewhere to live! And the place is exactly what we were hoping for, too. Wood floors, large bedroom, cute little kitchen, and a private patio surrounded by trees. While touring the place with the landlord I tried really hard to act professional, but in my excitement couldn't help but grab him and hug him tight. He just laughed and with a think accent told us we were welcome. We move in next week! I'm one happy girl to be done living hotel to hotel-although if I said it wasn't a little fun I'd be lying. Every night we stay somewhere different, sometimes in rooms with green carpet, sometimes in hotels that have 6 or 7 cats loitering outside. But every night we laugh and laugh in our room about our situation, and how we really are adventurers right now.
P.s. Photo by Amber Henrie, back when my man was bearded. If you haven't check her stuff out by now, click here.

and speaking of music...

2011-08-09T17:16:00.000-07:00

This song has been stuck in my head all day.
Good luck trying to watch it just once.

a story.

2011-08-09T12:55:00.000-07:00

My freshman year of college, I shared an apartment with a girl who would play guitar in her room before she went to sleep. She would sing, too, and I could sometimes hear it through the too thin walls of our crappy little three bedroom. I grew more and more envious with time, and decided I was going to learn guitar before I was too busy or too old. The siren I shared a wall with taught me three chords to begin. I taught myself from there.

The first song I wrote was incredibly stupid. No clear bridge or chorus, no interested lyrical lines, and the worst part: not about anything I'd ever actually experienced or felt. Now that I think back on playing it for the siren to see what she thought, I'm embarassed. And I don't know how she wasn't kind of embarassed for me. Instead, she was ridiculously supportive. You woulda thought I was Ingrid Michaelson or something with how she was behaving. I decided to keep writing and practicing.

My legs were shaking almost uncontrollably the first time I played open mic. night. I thought about walking out before my turn, but figured that if everyone else in the room could share, I had better atleast try. A few open mic nights later, Corey Fox (owner of the venue) told me that I should think about opening for a band sometime. Uh, are you sure you've got the right person? Did you hear my songs? I was totally flattered but really scared, so did what most girls do when they really want something but feel inadequate...I said no. I told him that I couldn't, but maybe someday once my sister could duo with me.A few months later, Hayley girl told me she was planning a trip out to visit me. I asked her then if she would open for an accoustic band with me while she was going to be here, and not to my suprise she answered "of course". We played our first show that January. (The same month that Tyler and I went on our first date.) It went well, and when she moved out to Provo that summer we started playing more together.

Recently, we recorded 5 songs for an upcoming e.p. we're creating. The tracks it will have are: tea for two, burn it down, willow, my wedding song for samuel t., and call me yours. Maybe you've never heard our stuff, and maybe you have, but either way Hayley girl and I are really excited, and will keep you updated with how it progresses! Happy Tuesday, friends.
(p.s. I promise we weren't lying around the whole time we recorded. I snapped the photo above at 4 in the morning, when we were just finishing up the session, and Hayley girl was falling asleep on my lap.)

today...

2011-08-06T22:55:00.000-07:00

I got another sister!
And I couldn't be happier about the new addition.
Anna was the loveliest bride.
Pictures from the big day to come...
(photo from last night's family dinner.)

most likely to love the man in the bolo tie.

2011-08-05T23:51:00.000-07:00

I want you to know that when Tyler told me he wanted to start wearing bolo ties, I died laughing. "Bow ties? Oh, bolo ties. Really?". But can you blame me? I thought those were reserved for old men that own ranches, or cattle. His dreams all came true recently when he found one that belonged to his great grandfather (who, may I add, did own a cattle ranch) among his mom's inherited things. And you better believe he wore it to the wedding reception we attended last night. And get this...I loved it. I stand corrected.

it's almost that time.

2011-08-03T22:07:00.000-07:00

My love and I are heading to California on Sunday, and I must admit, I'm a little sad.
Of course I'm excited, but it's hitting me how much I really will miss Salty City.
This is the place where Tyler and I met, fell in love, and had our first place.
Hayley girl lives here, and so does my older brother and soon to be wifee, Anna.
I know there's so much to come, and moving to a new city is going to be a huge adventure.
And I'm happy to be closer to my parents, the beaches of Santa Cruz, and San Francisco shopping!
But I'm sort of wishing the clocks would slow down a little. At least for the next three days.

dolores, colorado.

2011-08-02T09:21:00.000-07:00

Tyler and I are home again.
The Colorado mountains were exactly as we hoped they'd be:green and just right for camping.
And even though the wild animals outfished me ( I couldn't catch anything!) and most of my clothes smell like campfire, I had a blast.
I sure hope we go back next summer.

weekend love.

2011-07-31T07:55:00.000-07:00

Hope you got smooched this weekend.

durango, colorado.

2011-07-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Husband of mine,

Yesterday was a perfect day. I liked walking the streets with your hand in mine, and hearing the live band outside. Thanks for eating pizza with me, and grabbing us cold root beers because it was hot out. I'm glad we split the ice-cream, and that you let me take some photos of you. I'm thankful that the weather was nice, and that I always have more fun with you than anyone. Thanks for making me laugh all day. I liked Durango, and I love you.

Marlee.

guess what?

2011-07-26T00:30:00.000-07:00

No, we are not having a baby. (Almost that crazy though.)
Drumroll please...
I am now officially a published author!
A while back Southern Utah Bride asked me to write an article for the upcoming issue, and naturally I obliged.
I wrote about our experience winning the wedding contest, taking our engagements in St. George, and all the craziness in between.
I am still awaiting an issue in the mail to flip through with my hands, but in the meantime Tyler and I have been flipping through the issue via the www.
Click here to see!
And if you really want to read it-this if for you grandma-you can find the article just by clicking on the blog.

sushi summer.

2011-07-25T08:16:00.000-07:00

The night before we left for our trip we double dated Anna and Chad at Takashi.
(I've been craving their strawberry rolls, and Tyler likes just about everything on the menu.)
Sushi has been sounding so good to us lately, what with it so hot out.
And have I told you we don't have air conditioning in our place rigiht now?
It's actually not bad-with fans and blinds on our side-but using the oven is kind of the last thing that sounds good at dinnertime.
So eating out almost every night it is!
I promise I'm going to learn how to cook someday, Mom.

familia.

2011-07-22T09:53:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we spent almost our entire day with family at the temple.
I loved it.
There is no prettier place. I've decided.
Today my man and I are off on another road trip!
New Mexico, and then Colorado.
Wish us luck! Happy Friday.

hiking with the wild animals

2011-07-19T09:45:00.000-07:00

Saw a snake. Played beneath a waterfall. Got a little rained on. Told mountain lion stories and ate peanut butter crackers. Saw how green the mountains still are right now.
This is why I like you, Utah.

the silver lining.

2011-07-18T11:38:00.000-07:00

The pretty wonderful thing about spending time with the one you love is: it hardly matters what you're doing.
You can be eating nasty nachos at a rodeo, or reading books in your house together because you don't own a T.V., or sitting in a library and looking for apartments in Santa Clara because you're supposed to be moving in three weeks and have nowhere to go yet...and suddenly it's the best time you've ever had.
And you laugh about all the craziness-because it's part of the adventure-and the silver lining is all you really see.

p.s.

2011-07-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

happy Friday!

she's back! she's back!

2011-07-15T11:55:00.000-07:00

After her three month hiatus from real life, Hayley girl is back in the beehive state. You should have seen how excited Tyler and I were to see her Wednesday night. Almost as soon as she walked in the door we were sitting on the rug in our living room, talking and laughing about her adventures in San Diego and Sacramento, the wild animals we've been hanging out with, music and movies, and everything in between. She slept over, despite the fact that we didn't have a bed for her, and went out to breakfast with us Thursday morning. I was one happy girl to be reunited with my mini. She gets me goofy and giggly like nobody else, and I've been missin' her somethin' fierce. My favorite is to hang out with her and Tyler, because we're all family now, and they're my two best.

in the mornings.

2011-07-13T11:53:00.000-07:00

It's a wonderful and terrible thing to live walking distance from your favorite bagel shop.
One asiago for the girl, one cranberry for the boy, please.
It might not be great for our bodies, but it sure is good for the ol' soul.
Tyler usually suggests we eat some fruit too, so on our walk home he usually grabs us some plums-or is today's case, cherries.
We walk and we eat, and I love every minute of it.
Happy Wednesday, friends.

kids say the darnest things.

2011-07-11T08:59:00.000-07:00

I thought I'd share some of the funny things Tyler and I have been hearing over here. Happy Monday! Tyler and I are planning on spending our day with the wild animals.

Rachel (6) : "Marlee, when I get older I want to have brown skin like you."

Rachel: You can't get mad at CeeCee for things, she's just two, and doesn't even have a brain yet."

Audrey (9): Yeah, there's a boy at school. He tries to call me "honey". I told him I'm just not ready for that."

Rachel (while saying a prayer): Dear Heavenly Father, we're thankful for all of our blessings. Please bless this macaroni, and that we will all have a good day, and that Marlee and Tyler will have a cute baby someday. Amen."

Audrey: Marlee, can I have Adam's snack?
Me: Adam's not home. How would you feel if he ate your snack while you were gone?
Audrey: Well, if I were gone I wouldn't know.
Me: Oh, good point.

Adam (4. at the dinner table): Marlee? You're hot. Tyler? You're fat.

dinner and a sandbox.

2011-07-08T11:50:00.000-07:00

Some of our best friends, Ben and Kristina, made their way up to Salty City with their littlest kiddo to double date us the other night at Eva. (And yes, Kristina really is this pretty in person.) Tyler and I are kind of in love with Miles' little face, and Ben and Kristina loved the food, so it was a win-win. I keep trying to convince these two to move with us to California, but it's not looking likely. We've got a whole 'nother month before we leave though, and Tyler is really persuasive when he wants to be...so we'll see. After dinner we took Miles to a little park right near our place so he could throw some sand and dirt around while we sat in the grass and enjoyed the summer weather.

new title: aunt Mawree

2011-07-07T13:13:00.000-07:00

I love being an aunt to these wild animals.
Even when Adam tells me I don't have a brain, or when I bring them otter pops and they tell me they really just wanted chips.
They have made everything about this summer-and especially 4th of July-so much fun.
It's pretty dang cute when they beg to drive with Tyler and I, or burst in our bedroom at 8 in the morning and ask us if we're awake yet.
It makes all of the Dora-explorer-watching and screaming worth it.

happy 4th, friends!

2011-07-04T09:42:00.000-07:00

I sure do love this holiday.

cream slushies and congratulations.

2011-07-03T21:38:00.000-07:00

I must have told him at least ten times over the course of the evening, and he's going to feel weird about my saying this now, but how handsome did my husband look at our Orem open house?
It's so nice to be married to the most handsome man you know.

sneak peek of last night's open house...

2011-07-01T10:44:00.000-07:00

There's a lot more pictures coming...
But I'll tell you now that the whole night turned out pretty darn perfectly.
I loved meeting the people who have known my man since he was wreaking havoc in his neighborhood as a kid.
I can't tell you how many people told me how lucky I am to be marrying into such an amazing family and to such an impressive guy.
I also got to reunite with some of my closest friends, too.
I loved it.
Happy fourth weekend! If you're going to stadium of fire in Utah, see you there!

june baby.

2011-06-29T22:50:00.000-07:00

I honestly almost forgot about my birthday this year-undoubtedly because I was so excited about getting married this month.
Tyler, however, did not forget!
I've been wearing his gift on my wrist. (You can see it in my post about Jackson, below.)
I don't feel any older or wiser, but I do feel happy.
Twenty-one was a good year to me, and I'm excited to see what twenty-two holds.I've got a few things in mind...

Bridal by Jimmy Bishop of Gideon Photography.