Three Years

Three years of marriage?! Half of me is blown away by how quickly it's gone by, half of me can't believe it's only been this long, because it seems like I've known Devin my entire life. He has become such a big part of me, that it's like he was never not around. He just gets me. And I get him. That's the best part about being married, is having that person. Devin is my person.

We were lucky enough to spend the weekend at one of Park City's finest, Westgate Hotel. It was unbelievable! Our room was so enormous and the amenities were so impressive! There was a heated outdoor pool, a massive (as in, biggest in the state) indoor/outdoor pool, and our personal favorite, the exclusive, adult only pool (no screaming children!) that was right down the hall from our room. We went twice in one day!

We had the greatest, most relaxing time. Hours at the pool, lounging in the hotel room, tons of great food, and plenty of shopping the memorial day sales. We headed home Sunday afternoon with a day and half of vacation left. Our only plan for Monday, our actual anniversary, was a couple's massage, which did not disappoint. We finished the weekend with dinner at our favorite steakhouse.

These three years have been the absolute best. I'm so, so extremely happy to have Devin. Nobody loves me better.

I'm telling you. We milked it.

 

An early dinner on our second night in Park City at our favorite, Bandit's.

(I apologize in advance that these photos are all random. And terrible.)

 

The giant indoor / outdoor pool - we didn't stay long. It wasn't nearly as fun as the adult pool.

 

The "Adult Relaxation Pool" - it was probably the prettiest room I've ever been in. This photo doesn't do it justice. It was amazing.

 

Killed some time waiting for the outlets to open at the Olympic Park - I didn't even know all this stuff was up here! I laughed out loud at the ski fashion display - isn't this funny?!

 

There were ducks in the pool! Did you know you can pay to do the ski jump into the pool?! You can also ride in an actual bobsled on the track!

We picked Cooper up on Sunday afternoon and he was so exhausted, he couldn't even stay awake for the drive home!

Devin's Birthday

For Devin's birthday this year, we had the amazing opportunity to have Mirror Lake Diner all to ourselves. The owner, Gabe let us come after the restaurant had closed and he and Brandon (Devin's brother who manages the diner and works as chef) cooked us and all our closest friends and family amazing, amazing food.

We were both so glad with how many people came to celebrate! Devin was absolutely spoiled by every single person and we had so much fun talking and eating and carrying on! Devin was so humbled and grateful. I think he finally realizes how important he is to so many people. How appreciated and loved he is, and how many people value their friendship with him. I still think back to that night and how much it meant to me to have everyone come and show them how much Devin means to them! It was incredible, and I am so happy to give him all that attention!

It's a really neat experience to watch a room light up just by your husband's presence, and see a group of really great people come just for him. I feel so lucky to be his wife - that is the ultimate blessing.

Earlier in the day, before we headed up to the diner, we drove down to Orem and Devin got a new gun! He's been really into guns lately, and has learned a lot and done a lot of research and he really loves it. He got a small handgun and we spent the afternoon in the range breaking it in and getting in some practice with our Beretta as well. He was so psyched to have a new gun, and I didn't mind either! I loved it. I loved how happy it made him. 

Next, we had lunch at one of his favorite places, Slab, and then we headed to Park City and checked in to our hotel for the weekend.

Taking a day out of the year to focus on Devin and celebrate him is always such a pleasure to me. Of course I try to show him appreciation every single day, but a birthday is different. I have so much to be thankful for in my husband, and I don't get enough chances to truly spoil him for it. I'm still pretty amazed that I'm the lucky one that gets to be his wife. Anyone who knows Devin loves him. He is such a sincere and loyal friend. He is so professional and hardworking, but knows exactly how to goof off and relax. I feel like in the last few years, Devin has finally found his niche. He is finally where he wants to be and where he truly feels he needs to be, and the course of events that have taken place these last few years have proven that over and over, and I'm so happy for him.

Devin isn't just an incredible person, but an incredible husband as well. He works so tirelessly to provide for us, and manages to make it all fun at the same time. He never once misses kissing me good morning or goodnight, he's never once raised his voice at me or called me degrading names, and has maintained a serious respect for our relationship from the very beginning, that means the world to me. I could never have imagined a marriage better than ours. Everything works so well between us and it just reiterates the truth that we are supposed to be together, doing exactly what we're doing.

So if you haven't already, go wish that man the happiest of birthdays, because he certainly deserves it.

 

On the left, the new Kahr CW 380, and on the right, our trusty Beretta Nano 9mm - the Kahr is so tiny!

 

I haven't even tried aiming yet. I'm still focusing on keeping my eyes open when I pull the trigger!

 

The Kahr is so small, it's almost easier to shoot with one hand. Hardly any recoil!

 

Lunch at Slab. My favorite combo: pizza and root beer.

 

Off to Park City! Cooper stayed with Brandon and 4 dogs in Kamas.

 

Our pit stop for dog food just happened to be next to the Milcreek gym. Coop was people watching.

 

I loved that they made a personalized menu just for Devin! It was such an awesome touch to a perfect party.

 

Another sweet surprise was when Gabe, the owner, turned down the lights and brought the cake out with candles and we all sang happy birthday. I truly can't thank Gabe enough. He is one of the greatest people I've ever met! 

Even baby Scarlett came to wish Devin a happy birthday! And she laughed for us! Baby giggles are officially the cutest sound in the world.

PINTEREST | 10 Blooms to Die For

i think we could all use a little pinspiration every once in awhile.

instead of listing individual links to each photo, know they are all sourced on my pinterest account here, and i am all sorts of grateful for whoever put them on the internet. none of these photos are my own.

Inventory | 02

Making: vacation plans for our anniversary this weekend

Cooking: broiled tilapia and fresh green beans

Drinking: peppermint tea (harney & sons is my new favorite, plus that packaging!)

Reading: The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society (it's a good one. about the German Occupation on the Channel Islands in WWII)

Wanting: to redecorate

Looking: for a cute one-piece swimsuit (i feel so old fashioned, but i'm set on it)

Playing: 2048. like it's my job

Wasting: closet space. well, i was at least. i did some major binge-uncluttering and now i have like, 400 hangers i didn't know existed. it's amazing.

Sewing: still no pillow covers. some day though, i'm sure. maybe when we get a different couch.

Wishing: it was the weekend already. hello, vacation, dev's birthday and anniversary!

Enjoying: this coy spring weather, though it is coy indeed

Waiting: for devin to get home

Liking: the plain tee and jeans uniform that's in constant rotation in my wardrobe.

Wondering: where we'll live next

Loving: on scarly-girl any chance i get (baby hog and proud of it!)

Hoping: for a camping trip soon

Marveling: at how long my hair is getting since i started using keratin oil shampoo (and ready to cut it all off!)

Needing: a refill on my diet coke

Smelling: my delicious guava tangerine candle

Wearing: my favorite ripped jeans

Following: Devin around Lowe's

Noticing: how observant Cooper is - he doesn't miss a beat!

Knowing: i have a cavity or two (but not wanting to go to the dentist! grrr)

Thinking: it's time to try something new

Feeling: like i have to sneeze (this has been going on all day)

Bookmarknig: huffington post articles to read when i have the time

Opening: a new bag of brown sugar, bought specifically for chocolate chip cookie making 

Giggling: at cooper's absolute demands to sleep on the bed

Katie, Lately

collaborating with devin once again to create something awesome for our house - he built the canvas, and i hand painted america. teamwork. | i'm that weird girl who sits in her car at the park for her lunch break | my cousin scotty married the sweetest girl alyssa and they had the most beautiful wedding at wadley farms. funny story: when i was about 13, my cousin lyndsey got married and her reception was at wadley farms (this was 10 years ago, people!). i loved the venue so much that i took a business card. at 13 years old. and i still have it. and i never used the venue for my own wedding. | i never, ever have a shortage of adorable cooper photos on hand. at all times. | a morning hike just me and my dog - first time i'd ever done that alone! it was great and drizzly and green and quiet and just what i needed | the outdoor adventure gear expo! momentum had a booth and devin ran the show! coop and i stopped in for a visit last week, ate some waffles, met some llamas and spread the word about momentum! | mother's day celebrations were the greatest. aside from spending the whole day spoiling my mom and mother in law, my little brother spoke in church, and my beautiful baby niece scarlett was blessed. hence the photo dump | when we visit my parents and the whole gang is there, that means 4 dogs, too! | i told devin that i would walk around home depot with him, if he walked around the nursery with me for the same amount of time after. hot date, i know | addison had her first dance recital! she was seriously the cutest thing. such a good dancer, knew all the choreography and looks absolutely adorable! i'm obsessed with her, and all my other nieces and nephews, too! | planted flowers for our front porch. i'd never done it before and it's harder than it looks, but i think it turned out okay!

April Favorites

The month started out with nothing new, and I was a little nervous that I wouldn't have any ideas for a favorites post, but lo and behold, here I am gushing, once again, over a handful of new products. (and over two weeks late… oops!) What was I so worried about?! I feel like I'm all over the board with this one, but they're all on here for a reason, and that reason is my pure obsession.

  

NYX Matte Lipstick in "Indie Flick" | I was the recipient of this amazing lipstick at my favorite things party last month. I tried it on almost immediately when I got home and fell in love with the shade, but this color is BOLD. Bright orangey-red. So, so pretty. But like I've said before - I'm sort of a wimp. I did manage to muster up the courage and wore this lip on Easter Sunday to church (remember when I said I always feel better trying new things at church? It's where I experiment with makeup, hairstyles and even outfit choices (pattern mixing, anyone?!). And I loved it. I don't think I could ever wear it to work yet (remember how I work in a body shop with 20 men? yeah. not the ideal place to pull out all my girly stops.), but I think I'll sport it on girl's night, date night, and all other nights. It's just too good to pass up. My weird issues aside? This is a gorgeous formula! The color was so pigmented and now I want it in every shade! The girl who brought this as her favorite thing said that the infamous Cara Loren swears by this shade and wears it all the time. I definitely want this lipstick in more shades. I still need a good nude!!

Essie Nail Polish in "Peach Daiquiri" | This is my all time favorite nail color right now. I have to consciously pull myself away from it every time I go to paint my nails. It's such a pretty, bright shade for spring and summer. I love it on my fingers and toes! Essie polish is by far the best formula (I also love Orly nail polish), but it's a little pricy. I think it's worth it for the staple shades, but I tend to buy cheaper versions of the fun colors I know I won't wear as often.

Anastasia Clear Brow Gel | I know you were all waiting for my Jaclyn Hill recommended products… and here's #1! (yes, there's more than one. don't be so surprised!) I had never even heard of brow gel before I started watching her videos a little over a year ago, and now it's everywhere. I actually didn't buy this product (though it was on my list, and is the same one she uses every day), but I got the sample size in my april birchbox! I was SO stoked. The first time I wore it, it was a little weird. It's like hairspraying your eyebrows! But… I'm a believer. It's awesome. There are a lot of cheaper options that would work the same, I'm sure. But I've loved Anastasia, and I know this brand is all about brows, so I trust it!

Jergen's Natural Glow in "Medium to Tan" | It's that time of year! I have learned to stop kidding myself when it comes to getting a summer tan. My skin just doesn't take to the sun like I think it does. I don't tan easily. Thankfully, I don't burn easily either, but it leaves me pale all year long. Enter Jergen's. Everyone's tried and true self tanner. There has been a lot of talk of other self tanners out there that can presumably do a better job, but I'm gonna stick with what works for me. Also, they recently reformulated this stuff and it doesn't smell nearly as weird as it used to! I don't mind the smell, and never really did, but it lingers. I can always smell it. And that's the same, but so be it. I am technically Light to Medium skin tone, but I've used this product for long enough to know how it works, and I know I will get the color I want with the darker formula. As long as you are careful and blend well, you will be tan in a week! I also love that this product is available. I can get it at the grocery store. And it's cheap! I can never find the other kinds everyone talks about, and they're usually too expensive. I'm only in my 20's, but I'm starting to take skin care very seriously. I know I won't be young forever, so getting the tan I want without the UV rays is a bonus.

LUSH Mask of Magnaminty | And here's Jaclyn tested, Jaclyn approved product #2! To be honest, I've had my eye on the glam glow mask for, oh, EVER, but I just can't bring myself to splurge on it just yet. When I was at City Creek with my mom and sisters recently and I stumbled upon the Lush store (when did they get Lush?!?!?!!!!), I walked in immediately (well, I first went to the bath bombs and bought a few… amazing. Let's talk about these another time.) and grabbed it right away. Being the skeptic that I am, I bought the smaller tub, but it's lasted a lot longer than I thought it would! This mask is amazing in so many ways. The smell? TO DIE FOR. I want to put it on just so I can smell it. I can't even count the number of times I pulled out the tub and smelled it the rest of the day after I bought it while we were still shopping. It's amazing. It's a true, deep cleaning mud mask and leaves your skin so soft and so clean. They recommend you use it once a week, but I feel like it's deep cleaning, without being intense, and I can use it more often…. as in… I used it twice in a row right after I bought it. Morning or night, this mask works wonders on your skin and it's made of all natural ingredients, which I love. Lush is my new favorite store, and I'm already planning my next purchases (starting with the body butter because holy…)

Robot Posts to Continue Until Further Notice

I'm frustrated. I'm frustrated because I feel like everything I post about lately is robotic and not really relative to my actual life. It's all series posts and catch-up photo dumps and whathaveyou. It's frustrating.

But I'm going to be honest in that vague, annoying way. Because there's just no other way right now. Everything that's going on in my life and taking up my time and my thoughts are things that I'm not ready to share on here yet. They are a far more frustrating than my worry of genuine content on my blog, hence the radio silence. I wish I could apologize, but I'm not very sorry. We'll all just have to deal with it for now. 

Aside from those personal struggles that are consuming and overwhelming me lately, I've been incredibly busy at work and unless you want to hear about accounts receivable... oh, you don't? Okay. Moving on...

I've tried to set aside time lately to consciously think about myself and assess my feelings and where i'm at. It takes more effort than I realize to think through the things going on in my life and around me, and I needed to lay it all out and reorganize. So, I know it's quiet here lately, but I need the quiet. I'll keep going with the robot posts for now, just because I don't want to lose my momentum, but regular blogging will presume at a later date, I'm sure. I've got all kinds of great things I want to talk about like, making friends when you're an adult and a big ol gushy one is coming soon because we're about to celebrating devin's birthday and our anniversary!

C L U T T E R

It's kind of a funny thing how much sentimental value an object can hold. I'm coming out of a huge de-clutter mood, and here's the end results. i'm basically the queen of "well, it's still cute, so maybe i'll like wearing it again some day." or "it's so cute, but i hate how it looks on me, but that might change (it won't ever change, just in case you were wondering) so I'm going to hang it back up and stare at it for two more years"

things that stayed:

+ my golf shoes (although i'm positive i haven't worn them in over a year)

+ my wedding shoes 

+ the dress i was wearing (a fancy cocktail dress that i will only where for rare occasions, if ever again) when devin met me for the first time - we were at a wedding.

+ my favorite ugly t-shirt, which i wore during most of the process (it's rags. so gross. but i just love it)

+ the bag i pouted over until my mom finally caved and bought for me to use as a backpack in seventh grade (it's a grade computer case, okay?)

+ the only hat i own: a straw fedora

+ the menthol chapstick i found in the bottom of an old bag! yahtzee!

things that went:

+ countless (and I truly mean countless) forever 21 v-neck shirts in colors, and other colors. (because they've been replaced with target's v-necks)

+ the lace pumps i coveted for months and months before finally saving the money to spend on them.

+ the cross body bag i bought specifically for our honeymoon

+ dozens of cutoff jeans

+ bright purple skinny jeans (we went, we saw, we conquered... we returned with better fashion sense.)

+ several tops that somehow made it with me through all these moves from the ninth grade… to now. (#what #how #dontaskbecauseidontknow) (#hoardersanonymous)

+ my 11th grade preference dress (i had no idea it was hanging in that garment bag, i swear)

+ most of my skirts (i'm just going to have to start from scratch here, because #no)

so after my closet lost about a hundred pounds, i thought i might as well try to get some money for it, right? so i went to one of those buy clothes / sell clothes stores, which took my entire lunch break (#firstworldproblem)s and they only took, like 4 things. which is funny, because every time i go into those stores, i always have the biased opinion that my clothes make more sense to sell then the outdated stuff on their racks... whatever. so i went straight to DI and donated the rest, and the empty laundry basket in the back seat of my car is making me feel so good right now. is this some metaphor for my life right now? what can i get rid of next? 

Katie, Lately

excessive photos of cooper / equally excessive photos of scarlett (isn't she getting big?!) / new target sandals on repeat / a doughnut locating app = genius / first time at leatherby's on a late night double date with the hamblin's and i couldn't ignore a classic banana split / a few selfies / baby brother's senior prom - he's just the sweetest kid there ever was / devin's flow rider experience (not pictured: the rest of our hilariously fun date with the andrews at provo beach resort) / endless diet cokes / sharing my ice cream cone with coop / my new brush kit! swoon. i'm in love! it's amazing. / i'll never get tired of the view from our front door at dusk. it's so pretty and i'll miss it come autumn / another view i'll never get sick of is the temple peeking around the corner of city creek mall / tooonnnnnns of scarly because i babysat her for 24 hours all by myself and we both survived and their was minimal puke and only a few tears. success! / salt water taffy is my vice / cooper at the park is a happy cooper / more excessive photos of cooper - he just goes through the phases where every little thing he does is absolutely adorable / cooking with the new anthropologie over mit i forced devin to let us get ($12?!) / a tried running again. still hate it. / getting ready on sundays is so much more fun than getting ready on any other day of the week / scarlett agrees. exhibit a: her amazing strawberry dress / my brother and i. hams.