Bodie and Megan

So long, Farewell

2011-11-03T09:34:00.000-07:00

My sister Allyson and her family moved to Minnesota from Idaho this past summer and before they took off for the Land of the Lakes they stopped in Utah for a farewell visit. This move felt different. While they were living in Idaho I always felt like they were so close because it was a mere 5 hour drive. Now they are a plane ride away and I can definitely feel that gap. All of my sisters are out of state and it's so hard to have them so far, but with Allyson she was at least only a state away. Anyway...I guess that's life! I talk to my sisters almost on a daily basis so we keep in touch. Well, while Allyson was in town we were able to do what we love most just hang out and be together! We walked up to a park near my house and let the kids run around. It was fun seeing everyone interact. I miss them.

Tanner thought it was so cool to walk Jeffrey

Me and Bodie

Bodie with our kids

Elizabeth, Todd, Allyson and Tanner in the back

Adorable Sammy

Wild Jeffrey

Baby Shower

2011-11-01T14:38:00.000-07:00

Lisa had a baby in September, but we had a shower for her in July while she was here visiting. It was so fun to get together with my friends and be able to catch up. I miss Lisa so much, she's living in Omaha, Nebraska while her husband is in dental school. It's always good to see her when she comes but I feel like it goes by too fast! We had her shower at Bombay House, it's a super yummy Indian restaurant and one of Lisa's favorites. We ate dinner, played games and then opened presents. It's crazy to think that Lisa and Courtney both have babies, whenever we get together I still feel like we are in High School. It was a fun night and a great way to celebrate little Eleanor and Lisa.

Lisa with Cupcake Onesie

Zack, Lisa and I

The gang

Courtney, Sunny and baby Peyton

Lisa and Peyton

4th of July Fun

2011-07-15T08:44:00.001-07:00

This was the first time in a few years that we were home for the 4th of July! I didn't know what to do with myself. We had a pretty mellow day, it was really cloudy and ugly for the 4th so I went to this movie:

It was really good! I cried through the whole thing, but it was a good cry. After the movie everyone just sat there, nobody moved until the credits had rolled. I think we needed some time to soak it all in, or wait until our eyes weren't so blood shot from crying. I went with my mother-in-law and it was just overall a good movie. It's amazing to see some of the miracles put to life.

Well that evening we went to a BBQ at my sister-in-law's house. She had her in-laws there and my in-laws and my mom came too. It was a fun group! We ate yummy food and then we had our very own firework show! It was a pretty good show, but nothing like the fireworks in Dubois. Anyway it was a fun night!

Bodie and I hanging out

Me with the moms

Our dogs are very festive

Yummy food

My cute niece

Home on the Range

2011-07-07T08:54:00.001-07:00

Each year Bodie and I take a trip to Dubois, Wyoming with his family. You may be thinking where in the world is Dubois? Trust me, not many people know. It is the cutest little town! For those of you dying to know, here is the map:

Anyway as I was saying we both look forward to this trip. We usually go over the 4th of July weekend but for some reason this year it didn't work out. Bodie's Uncle's wife's family (make sense?) have a cozy cabin in this little subdivision outside of the town. It is an A shaped cabin and it is the perfect place to escape to. Best of all our dogs love it! Yes, we brought our loving companions Jeffrey and Samantha. They are so good they didn't even leave the property!

The Cabin

The only downside of traveling to Dubois is that it is 6 hours away! I'd like to think I am easily entertained but for some reason you put me in a car for more than a few hours and I start going CRAZY! Luckily we made it safely and no one was harmed by my boredom. We first stopped at Bodie's parents property. They have land in The Painted Hills Estates, sounds fancy right? It is a small subdivision that has several cabins and behind it are beautifully "painted" hills. Right now there is nothing on their property but bushes, flowers, wishes and lots of dirt. It's fun to look at it and imagine what it will look like someday. They want to build a cabin there so that we can use it as a family.

The Painted Hills

Us with Bodie's Parents

The property, Jeffrey and Sam loved exploring

Sometimes I love just driving around and looking at different houses, I'm not sure if anyone else enjoys this. But it's fun to see the different designs, shutters, gardens, front doors and house styles. Well much like house shopping (similar to window shopping) we did a little cabin shopping. There are so many different styles of cabins, within that subdivision someone was working on this beauty:

I thought the style was different but I kind of liked it. The rocks were an interesting choice for the exterior. It'll be fun to go next year and see the progress that has been made. It's amazing the difference a year can make! Well our first daythereit was just Bodie, me and his parents. His Aunt, Uncle and cousin were arriving the next day. So we had the day to explore beautiful Dubois! We relaxed at the cabin for a little while and then decided to take a small walk with the dogs down to the river, Wind River.

Little swimmers

Someone's thirsty

I love these two

Down by the river

Jeffrey is afraid of the water, weird because he's a purebred lab and they are supposed to love water! So Bodie likes to force him into the water, maybe someday he won't be so afraid. He likes to inch his way in, but he had no choice on this day. Sam isn't as afraidas Jeffrey and she's a good swimmer! The water was freezing, that could be why they didn't want to go for a dip. I later found out that right next to this river wherewe were hanging out was a mother Moose and her baby twins. Good thing she didn't feel threatened by us, or we would have been dead!

In the evening we explored the town, it only takes a few minutes to drive through the entire town. We ate at the Cowboy Cafe. It's greasy good food! Yummy sweet potato fries with chipotle sauce and homemade pie! I loved it.

We were lucky enough to visit the World's Largest Jackalope Exhibit! Haha. It was awesome! I wanted to get on top of it but I tried to restrain myself. But how many people can say they have actually ridden a jackalope? I wish I was one of them, maybenext year.

We took a drive the next day to a place called Union Pass. I was looking for the grizzly bears, but I didn't spot any. Just a lot of deer.

Hello there Bambi

Herd of deer

Beautiful sky, I took this picture on accident-happy accident

The big event on Friday night is the rodeo, so of course we had to take part. It was so fun! The announcer was hilarious, he may have been a little drunk. But I loved watching the different events.

Ride em' cowboy

Love the name of this burger place

Our trip went by so fast! The rest of the weekend we spent time fishing, laughing, watching movies and just having fun. It was a great trip and I can't wait for next year.

Las Vegas Getaway

2011-06-07T11:11:00.000-07:00

Vegas Baby! Bodie and I took the weekend off and escaped to Las Vegas. It was sooo HOT! We stayed in the Las Vegas Hilton off the strip which was nice because it was less chaotic and more relaxing. We spent everyday at the pool and most nights on the strip. We made it out to the Hoover dam for a dam tour and it was dam good! We went to the buffet at the Bellagio and it was amazing. There was an assortment of food and the desserts were superb. We wanted to celebrate our anniversary in style and what better way than in Vegas style. I'm all about bright lights, big city but I could tell Bodie would have rather been camping or some place less crowded. Oh well marriage is all about compromise! Happy 3rd Anniversary!!

The M&M Factory

Somewhere near the Hoover Dam

The Dam

Chillin on the strip

Air Force Wife

2011-05-19T09:47:00.000-07:00

After much thought and prayer Bodie has joined the Air Force Reserves! I'm so proud of him and because this was a choice we made together, I feel good about it. Bodie has always had a desire to serve our country and he is an all American boy, in fact the first item to go up in our house was the flag pole. Bodie officially joined the Air Force on February 25, his golden birthday! He was sworn in that morning and it was the perfect way to start his birthday. So what next? Well because he joined the reserves that means we don't have to move, yeah! It will be like a part time job unless of course he is deployed. Everything is still up in the air, but for the time being I'm just proud of my man!

It's official

The family support

Back at the Capitol

2011-01-21T22:51:00.000-08:00

For those of you that are unaware of my work schedule, I now work three 12 hour shifts. I love it! It is so nice after 3 days to be able to shout "It's my Friday!" Then I have a nice 4 day weekend ahead of me. As fun as that sounds it is also exhausting. I am working non-stop those three days and when my days off comes around all I want to do is put on my fleece pajamas, cuddle up with Jeffrey and watch The Bachelor. So lets just say I don't get out much.

I have turned into somewhat of a homebody and I like it! I love staying in, renting a redbox and getting Chinese food. That to me is the perfect date night. But date nights have been difficult as of lately due to Bodie working night shift. I like to call him my Edward, he sleeps all day and works all night. Okay, yes that is not the same as our loving Edward from Twilight, but it is somewhat vampire related. Anyway back to me being a homebody.

However this weekend fate presented itself with an excuse to get out of the pj's and go out on the town. My mom invited me to the opera! Actually to be completely honest I hate opera. I'm sorry for those of you that are avid opera fans, but to me it just sounds awful. I don't like hearing people sing like that. I only sing like that if I am trying to make fun of people that sing like that. Yes, they are very talented but that doesn't mean I have to enjoy it. Anyway I decided to be a good daughter and go with my mom.

Back to the Capitol! I used to work for Arttix at Capitol Theatre and the other venues downtown. I haven't seen some of those ex-co-workers in a few years. Well we get to will call and I do not recognize a soul in that ticket office. I felt very old. I don't know why that made me feel old, but it just did. So we sit down in our mezzanine seats and prepare to watch the opera. Twelve minutes into it (mind you the first 10 minutes was the orchestra playing) my mom turns to me and says "I'm ready when you are." I laughed inside and quietly shouted JOY! My mom just gets me. So we waited for a "pause" and made our escape. In the lobby she says to me "I thought it was going to be more like a play, like Broadway. I didn't like that at all." I love my mother. So we ended up hopping on trax and heading over to gateway for a showing of The Tourist. While The Tourist has gotten some bad reviews, I would pick that movie over the opera any day.

MVP

2011-01-14T10:15:00.000-08:00

Okay I just wanted to do a little bragging. I don't consider myself to be someone that is full of them self or overconfident so I think it is okay once in awhile to be proud of your own accomplishments. Yesterday I had a meeting for work and I was presented with the award for "MVP" (Most Valuable Person) of 2010. I was so happy! It felt so good to be recognized for all my hard work. I had no idea I would be receiving it. My boss said I was one of the top performers and that I never complain and always do a great job. It felt amazing. I think you need to feel that you are doing a good job every now and then. I work so hard and do my best every week so it is nice to know that my efforts are noticed and not wasted. So I'm patting myself on the back. Here's to you Megan Bowthorpe!

Happy Holidays

2010-12-29T20:57:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas! It seems that it went by so fast. I can hardly believe that it is all over. It is amazing how much anticipation there is for one day and then before you know it the day is gone. We had a great Christmas. It was our first Christmas in our house. We woke up and exchanged gifts together and discovered what Santa had brought us. Bodie was happy with his new coat, and movies. You will be suprised to know that I did not receive this:

But this:

Christmas morning Bodie gave me a camera lens and said it was for the camera that I was going to get. I was thinking in my head that he meant the camera I would eventually get because I was saving for it. Then Christmas night he gave me my new camera! I was so shocked, it made me cry. I was so happy! Bodie has a way of making me get teary eyed with his gifts; first with the gun and now with the camera. I can't wait for next year! He is full of suprises. Anyway it was nice to spend time with family and be together. We were so lucky to have Melissa and Josh and Allyson and Todd in town to celebrate. Happy holidays!

The most magical place on earth...

2010-12-18T00:57:00.000-08:00

Disneyland! The first week in December I spent four days with my 3 sisters, 1 brother-in-law, crazy mother, and 5 nieces and nephews. It was great! 5 children under the age of 6 was chaos at times, but being there with them made it so much more fun. I love being a big kid. It was fun to see the kids experience new things and see them get so excited. It was also great to be with my sisters! I miss being with them and it is rare that we are all together. Here is a breakdown of my Disneyland favorites and trip highlights not in any particular order: 10) Indiana Jones (enough said), 9) churros, 8) the Disney characters especially when they are so in character-for example Mary Poppins and Bert- they spoke with British accents (so aweseome!) 7) Disney fireworks-the most amazing fireworks you will ever see, 6) nothing better than Christmas time at Disneyland they go above and beyond to bring in the holiday cheer, 5) Todd's ability to maneuver through the park with ease and patience with all the women, 4) sitting in a hot steam room with my sisters during a Disney break at an amazing spa, 3) meeting Rapunzel and Flynn Ryder from Tangled, 2) enjoying the warm California weather, 1) being with family!

The kids with Chip and Dale

Tanner, Lucie and Elizabeth being scary

Jane and Gavin

The group with Rapunzel and Flynn Ryder

I love Minnie!

Us being silly

My sisters

The group in Mickey's house

Elizabeth and Lucie on Toy Story

The group on my first day there

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-26T12:02:00.000-08:00

Well we survived . Bodie and I hosted our very first Thanksgiving ever! We invited the Bowthorpes and the Watkins and had a joint family dinner. I was a little nervous but it turned out great! I have an amazing family and everyone was willing to bring something which made it very easy for me. I just had to be the entertainer. I was surprised that we were able to fit everyone into our house. We had 20 adults 2 children and 1 baby; 23 guests! It was a special night. We wrote notes and put them into our Thank you vase and then we went around and read them and tried to guess who had written the note. It was fun and possibly a new tradition. It was a great night and today I am exhausted and trying to clean my very messy house. Happy Thanksgiving!

A very tired Jeffrey

The tables

It's all in the details

The place settings

Alex, Jeremy, Leah, Elyn and Bodie

Grandpa, Ally, Amanda and Boyfriend

Brady and Anne

Grandma Bowthorpe, Tessa and Brooks

Burke and Dave

David, Mom, Ally, Grandpa and I

Amy, Jared and Gavin stopped by for dessert

The Bushmans

Mom and Dave (Holly was working)

The hosts

Gratitude

2010-11-25T12:20:00.000-08:00

"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." - John F. Kennedy

Thanksgiving is here and there are so many things I have to be thankful for. I think JFK was right when he said we need to live by our words. If you appreciate someone you need to show them and not just tell them. It's so easy to write down everything we are thankful for but why is it difficult to show it? My goal this holiday season is to show my loved ones how much I love and appreciate them through my words and actions, so wish me luck!

While I'm at it there is so much to be thankful for: wonderful husband, cute dog, cute kitties, happy home, great family, my Savior, good job and great co-workers, support and friendship, health, love, and life! Life is good.

Weekend Projects

2010-11-14T13:57:00.001-08:00

With the weather getting colder I'm forced to stay inside because I hate the cold. This last weekend I kept busy with some projects. Bodie installed some new shelves in our kitchen and I love the added space and more room to decorate! Then we made a "thanks" jar for Thanksgiving. We are going to have everyone write on scrapbook paper what they are thankful for and put it in the jar then we will go around and read them. I'm excited for this new idea. The vase turned out okay for a DIY. I guess winter isn't all that bad, helps me get creative and crafty. Also I included a recent photo of the garage. An entire post dedicated to the making of the garage is soon to come.

Bodie's Man Cave

New kitchen shelves

"Thanks" Jar

Halloween Funtivities

2010-10-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! October has gone by so fast. It has been so nice to watch the leaves change and although I don't particularly like the cold it has been nice to have a change. Change is always good. I have been trying to get into the spirit of the season but it has been difficult. If I didn't have my mom coming over on the weekends decorating our house for Halloween then our house would be very bare. We carved pumpkins with Bodie's family and watched a scary movie, it was really fun! I love this time of year and I'm glad we took some time to do something fun.

The pumpkins-ours is the far right one

Bodie and I chose a Level 1 Pumpkin in Difficulty

Graduation

2010-09-06T13:28:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey graduated Puppy school! Although everyone graduates and no one fails I am still very proud of our puppy. He still has a lot of work to do but I think we are done with classes for now. Jeffrey has come a long way. He no longer goes to the bathroom inside and is a very good boy about it. We are still working on him jumping on people. We love Jeffrey he is such a good dog. He is so loving and still seems to think he is small because he jumps on your lap and likes to lay on you and fall asleep. He loves to play with the kitties and lick them all over it, they tolerate him. We love Jeffrey! Good job buddy!

Happy 4th

2010-07-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Bodie and I went up to Dubois, Wyoming for the 4th of July. We had a great time and it has become some what of a tradition. Dubois is a small town population 900 and it has so much character. It is also so beautiful! We drove up with Bodie's parents and met up with Bodie's Aunt and Uncle and their kids. We stayed in this fun cabin just outside of town. It is right by a river. It was really funny because my boss was telling me that her and her husband had just bought a cabin in Dubois and it turns out her cabin is in the same subdivision as our family! So funny! So we were able to meet up with her and her husband and see her cabin. It was so fun. We took Jeffrey with us and he had such a good time. There were two other dogs there and he just played with them the whole time, I think they got sick of him because he has so much energy. He was such a good dog he didn't even leave the yard. We are so lucky. On the 3rd we went to this beautiful lake, Brooks lake. It was amazing! Bodie and I took a little boat out and did some fishing. He asked me to hold his fishing pole for a minute so he could paddle and right then I caught a fish! It was awesome. Jeffrey went out on the boat with us and he was so good. He is afraid of the water so he is very hesitant about getting near it. We had a great time on the 4th. We got to go to the town's parade and it was hilarious, some of the floats were ridiculous. I love small towns. Then of course the fireworks. Well in order to make the show seem longer they would space out the fireworks and some people thought the show was over and would start to leave but then it would start again, it was so funny. Bodie and I had fun naming the fireworks, like pink ninja and leprechauns. It was a great trip, we had a fun time with family. Can't wait until next year.

The Cabin

Watching the parade

Brooks Lake

My fish!

Jeffrey and I in the boat

06.07.08

2010-06-14T18:23:00.000-07:00

2 years! I can't believe that Bodie and I have been married for 2 years now. It has gone by so fast. I feel like we have come so far. We have grown a lot in the past year, which seems hard to imagine. Now we have 2 cats, 1 dog and a house. I love him so much more. The more time I spend with him the more I realize how perfect we are together. We are far from being perfect but we just seem to fit. Somedays he drives me so crazy that I wouldn't think to write something like this. But even when he drives me nuts I love him. We've gone through a lot this past year. We've had some great trips, gone through sad times and happy times. That is what marriage is all about. I'm glad I can do it with my best friend. Someone recently told me how much I've changed, and maybe I have. I think life is all about changes and it's being able to find that one person you can go through the changes with. Here's to you Bodie, love you!

Accidental Happenings

2010-06-13T14:53:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I was waiting for take-out and I was listening to the radio. They were looking for the 10th caller to win a lunch with a band. I didn't know who the band was but I thought it was a worth a try. And I won! Haha. So this week I'm having lunch with Second Hand Serenade and then I get to hear a live performance. I wasn't planning on going and then I looked them up online and I actually know some of their songs. So now I'm kind of excited! Hopefully I can convince my boss into taking a long lunch.

Timber!

2010-04-29T22:04:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago Bodie with the help of our neighbor Nick and his Dad took down a 50-60 foot tree. This was a BIG job. It was pretty much an all day event. Bodie rented some heavy equipment and he went up with a chainsaw and cut down the pieces one by one. Some of the pieces crashed down so hard. I watched from the house in horror. I was glad when they were done. The reason we took down the tree you ask? Bodie has plans to build a garage in our backyard this summer and he wants a driveway to lead back to his garage, the tree was in the way and thus it had to be removed. Our neighbors were happy because that tree hangs right over their house and they were always afraid that one day it would come crashing down. So adios tree and hello new garage.

Bodie and Nick way up high

The beautiful piece of equipment

The mess we dealt with afterward

Say hello to Jeffrey

2010-04-24T16:10:00.000-07:00

Jeffrey is our new puppy! He is 3 months old and a handful. We feel like we adopted a baby, he is a lot of work. But he is adorable! He is so playful, our cats have not gotten used to that yet. He loves being in our backyard running around, and he loves to ride with Bodie in his truck. He loves walks, and he gives lots of cute puppy kisses! Bodie and I have been talking about getting a puppy for awhile now and started looking around and getting more serious. But then we found this little guy and we couldn't resist taking him home with us. We love being parents, too bad I couldn't get puppy maternity leave from work. So everyone meet Jeffrey!

Happy Easters

2010-04-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to a tired Bodie who had just gotten off work at 8:00 am he smiled and said "Happy Easters" and then handed me three chocolate bunnies and a card. The card read: To my wife I learned that our marriage is like these chocolate bunnies, inside the card read: SOLID. So today I realized that my marriage to Bodie is solid, he is a solid guy. :) I love him so much, he surprises me everyday. Although we are far from perfect what makes us perfect together is that we try. We try everyday to make each other happy and I'm so glad that I can spend forever with my best friend. Happy Easter everybody!

Happy Birthday Bodie

2010-03-23T16:53:00.001-07:00

A month late. But here are the pictures from Bodie's Birthday this year, Feb 25th. We had a great time. Thursday was his birthday and he had to work, but we celebrated that night. I had an army party for work and so that explains the army clothes; although Bodie seems to like army attire. I made him a homecooked meal, real mashed potatoes, steak and salad and for dessert his favorite chocolate chip cookie. He loved every bite! We opened presents and just hung out. The next night we went to Bodie's favorite restaurant Ruby River for a birthday celebration with his family. Then we went back to our house for cake, I made a cupcake cake! It was fun. I love Bodie so much! I'm so glad I could have a day just to celebrate him.

Birthday Dinner

He was dreaming about his presents

Dinner at Ruby River

Bodie's family

The birthday boy with the birthday cake

Meet Betty and Mike

2010-03-12T16:45:00.000-08:00

They love to sleep on us

They just love to sleep

Nap time is their favorite

When they were little ones

This was our first day with them
Well many of you are probably wondering who the kitties are in my pictures. We have been hiding them for quite some time because they weren't allowed at American Towers. So I have become accustomed to keeping them our little secret. Well world I would like to introduce you to my cute cats Michael (Mike) and Betty.
Betty is very sweet, she is graceful. She loves to cuddle and always loves to sleep with us.
Mike loves to play, he has gotten quite fat and he likes to lay on his back with his toy on his tummy.
Anyway just wanted to share our cute cats!

Our bedroom

2010-03-04T17:19:00.001-08:00

Where the cats sleep

Our dresser

More of our dresser

Our nightstand

Our bed with Mikey on top

The Kitchen

2010-03-04T17:06:00.000-08:00

It was so nice to move into our house and not have to do any extra work. Everything was pretty much move-in ready. All of our cabinets were brand new and the countertops, I picked pink because that was the color of the majority of our kitchen items!

View to outside, and our cute birdhouse

Our table and eating area

Our kitchen

I love PINK in the kitchen

Our house

2010-03-04T16:58:00.000-08:00

Our house is a very very fine house, with two cats in the yard. :) Well I'm sorry for the long wait, but here are some pictures from our house. This is not everything, like the front yard I missed but just some of the rooms. So I'm giving you a taste of our living situation right now. This first post is one of my favorite rooms in the house, our living room. There is so much light in this room and I just love everything we've put in it.

Our fireplace

What room isn't complete without a ceramic elephant

Front windows

Our sofa tables and a peak at our entrance

An overall view of the living room

Sold

2010-01-04T19:37:00.000-08:00

We did it! We bought a new house! We are in the process of getting settled, but it is great. I love it. We don't really have internet right now so I'll have to post some pictures later. It is so fun playing house! :) We love it!

More Missouri

2009-12-13T11:45:00.001-08:00

Bodie and I in front of the Temple

Bodie playing with Lucie

The group

Missouri

2009-12-13T11:30:00.001-08:00

Nauvoo Temple

Liberty Jail

One of the corner stones at Far West

Independence

Visitors center in Independence
Thanksgiving was extra special, but what was even more fun was that weekend! We went on day trips and visited a bunch of church sites. It was so great! The day after Thanksgiving Melissa and I woke up super early to go workout with a personal trainer-I have such a good sister. It was awesome workout, it really kicked my butt. I could hardly move the rest of the weekend! Then later in the morning we took off for Independence, Liberty Jail, Far West, and Adam-ondi-Aham. It was amazing to see these places. We learned so much about Joseph Smith and about the Pioneers and the struggles they faced. I already knew about their trials but to actually be where they were and see everything first hand was incredible.
The next day we went to Nauvoo! It was so much fun. We took pictures by the temple and visited Historic Nauvoo and went into the old shops and houses. We even got to go to a musical that night that was put on by the Missionaries. It was great. Overall it was the best trip ever! My Grandpa kept saying-I'm so happy to be here...and so was I. Thanks Josh and Melissa for being such great hostesses! We love you guys, can't wait to go back again.

Thanksgiving 2009

2009-12-13T11:21:00.001-08:00

Me and cute baby Jane

The beautiful table

Bodie and Grandpa
We had a great Thanksgiving this year. We took a trip to Missouri to visit Josh and Melissa and the girls. It was so much fun! We went with my mom and my 89 year old Grandpa who didn't have one problem getting around-go Grandpa! I LOVE Thanksgiving at Melissa's house, it always feels so special. It was great to hang out, cook, play with the kids, and then eat a wonderful meal. We had a great time. I didn't get too many pictures of everyone on the Big day...oh well maybe next year!

Adios Elder Bowthorpe

2009-12-02T19:17:00.000-08:00

Last month, Bodie's little brother Shane left for his mission. He was called to the Portland Oregon Mission. He was so excited. It made me wish I was going on another mission too. It was fun to live vicariously through him and reminisce on my mission experiences. He did a really good job on his farewell talk, he has such a strong testimony. I know that he is going to touch so many lives. He is such a sweet kid. It was really special the night before he left we were all there as he was set apart and before everyone went around and gave him some advice. The spirit was so strong. He left the next day November 11. He was so excited to get out there. It's been fun receiving his emails and hearing about everything. We will miss him so much but he is definitely exactly where he needs to be. We love you Shane! See you in two! :)

More photos from the cruise

2009-11-21T14:19:00.001-08:00

Starfish in Grand Cayman

About to swim with Sting Ray

Everyone

Cozumel by Night

Riding the Donkey

Cruise

2009-11-21T14:02:00.000-08:00

In October Bodie and I went on a cruise with his sister Alex and her husband Jeremy and their friends Josh and Crystal. It was so much fun!! We went out of Miami and we went to Cozumel, Mexico; Grand Caymans and Jamaica. It was so beautiful. We had a great time. It was fun watching Bodie experience things for the first time; like swimming with sting rays in Grand Cayman so cool! It was fun being in a group. We had so much fun on each of our stops and we partied every night. :) We sang karaoke and Bodie and Jeremy even got hypnotized-that was quite the show. I'm glad we could go with Alex and Jeremy before they have their baby-I guess they call these kinds of trips babymoons! Well we first went to Cozumel. We went to the Mayan Ruins-Tulum, it was incredible. We had a Mormon guide and he told us some really interesting things. It was so cool to see all the ruins and imagining the people that once lived there. It was so hot- we were sweating like crazy. Then beneath the ruins there is a private beach and so we took a dip in the ocean, it was so nice. It was fun to talky spanish with everyone. Next we went to Grand Caymans, that is probably one of my favorite places in the world. The water is so blue and it is such a beautiful island. We got to go swimming with Sting Rays and we even got to feed them! It was really scary at first because they are not afraid of you at all so they just get all over you. We loved it. Then we got to go snorkeling- the fish were so cool looking. We got dropped off at the beach and it was so much fun swimming in the ocean especially when the rain started coming down really hard. So fun. Our last stop was Jamaica. We went to the Dunns Falls and we hiked up a waterfall-it is so beautiful. Then we got to eat some local food-it was way good! We had a great time. It was nice to get away and just spend time together. We loved it!

Beautiful beach

The Mayan ruins-Tulum

Cozumel, Mexico

The gang

On the boat leaving Miami

Updates, updates, updates

2009-11-16T19:53:00.000-08:00

Well it's about time...time for some updates!! And there are still more to come.

Romantic Birthday Night

2009-11-16T19:47:00.000-08:00

So Bodie and I went and celebrated my Birthday the weekend after I got home from Atlanta. We had a plan to go to this dinner and cowboy show in Pleasant Grove so we drove all the way out there and then found out they had moved the show to Park City! We were way bummed so we went to our favorite place, Ruby River instead. Anytime we want to celebrate we go there. We also went to the batting cages, which is something we haven't ever done together. And then we went to a movie. It was the perfect night, just how I wanted to celebrate my day with my Bodie.

Ruby River

Bodie showing me how it's done

In the streets of Pleasant Grove

Birthday shooting fun

2009-11-16T19:40:00.000-08:00

Shooting up a storm

The hot, happy couple (literally)

Mom with her new gun

To celebrate my Birthday when I got home from Atlanata, I went shooting with my Mom and Bodie. We had a great time. It was so hot out there though, it felt like it was the middle of July. We saw a few jack rabbits so that was exciting. It was a good time.

My Birthday

2009-11-16T19:26:00.000-08:00

Hooray for me I turned the big 2-5!! This year I was in Atlanta for work and so I couldn't be with my Bodie and family. It was hard, but everyone was so great to me that it turned out okay. I realized something this year, I don't always have to wear PINK on my birthday that it is okay to branch out. And this year I really did feel like the Birthday queen. I had gone shopping a few times trying to find my Birthday outfit, a few times I had gone to Target and really liked this dress but really didn't like the price. So the day before my big day I went back to Target and decided to just get it because it was my DAY!! Well I searched everywhere and couldn't find my dress but then...I found it on the sale rack and it wa 50% off! That was Birthday luck. So I wore my new dress and I felt great! Well it was really sweet, a couple of the girls made me a birthday banner and had everyone sing when I walked into our classroom. It was so nice. What's even better is that earlier that day we were told we didn't have to come to class until later because there were severe floods, awesome! Not awesome about the floods but awesome that I got to sleep in on my Birthday. Later that night the Company took us all out to dinner and it was fabulous. So all in all it was a pretty good Birthday.

Alisa and V-the planners

Happy Day

It's my Birthday

All in Yellow

Welcome to Atlanta

2009-11-16T19:08:00.000-08:00

Shortly after I was promoted I was shipped off to Atlanta for 10 days for a job training. As you can tell from my previous posting I'm EXHAUSTED it was a pretty intense training. I learned so much. It was difficult being in a classroom all day watching Powepoint presentations but I was able to get through it. I met some great people from all over the country even my birth place New Jersey. I was able to see Atlanta a little bit and do what I love...shopping and going to the movies! It was hard being away for my birthday but it wasn't too bad.

Hanging out with my girl V

My fabulous group

Tiffanys...some day

The Underground

My cute hotel

Promotion

2009-11-16T18:44:00.000-08:00

Proud Mom

HAPPY

Go me! :) I recently got promoted at my work. I have been there 6 months and I am now a Health Care Representative. Basically I am doing the same job I was doing before but now it is just official and I'm being paid for it. I love my work. I love feeling like I'm helping people. I like being in a hospital setting but not having to do anything medical because I have a hard time dealing with that. Anyway to celebrate Bodie, my mom and I went out to dinner. It was a great time and a perfect reason to celebrate!

I'm EXHAUSTED

2009-09-18T15:35:00.000-07:00

My brain is not functioning anymore, I've decided. I have been at a job training here in Atlanta, Georgia for the past week and I'm starting to feel really burned out. It is crazy the amount of time and energy can go into completing forms. I never thought that Social Security could be this complicated! Ahh.. I have met some great people from all over: New Jersey my girl "V" she is hilarious, Oregon cute girl Alisa and hilarious Stacey, Illinois, and Georgia. I love it. What I don't love is watching powerpoint presentations all day. That can be tiring. This morning I had a test, and next week I had a final! I'm thinking of retiring at a young age. I really miss Bodie sooooo much! So wish me luck in getting through the weekend and next week!!

Coming soon...

2009-09-13T12:23:00.000-07:00

Bodie and I are only a few weeks away from our Carribean cruise! We are so excited. We are going to Cozumel, Mexico; Ochos Rio Jamaica; and Grand Caymans!! I can't wait. We are going with Bodie's sister Alex and her husband Jeremy and some of their friends. So stay tuned for some awesome pictures from our trip.

Out with the OLD in with the NEW

2009-08-14T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well Bodie finally decided it was time to give up on old Abby the Caddy. His old man Cadillac was replaced by a new Chevy Truck! Bodie is loving life right now.

Abby the Caddy on the left and the new
un-named Truck on the right

Mi Trabajo

2009-08-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

I've been working for my company for almost 6 months now, and it is great! I love everyone I work with they are all so great. We recently got together for a work BBQ. We went up Big Cottonwood Canyon and we had a great time. My co-worker Jane prepared a crossword puzzle and we even had a pinata! It was great to get together and not think about work but just enjoy each other's company. That is one of the perks of our companies, our little get-togethers!

My favorite Puerto Ricans

Me with some of the girls

The group

Hermanas para siempre

2009-08-14T20:48:00.001-07:00

Last week one of my compis was in town from California so a few of us got together. It was a blast! It was so fun to talk about life, the mission and just have a good laugh. I'm so happy that I stay in touch with my mujeres from the mission. Ashley was so good to have all of us there, thanks girlie!

Spain anyone?

2009-07-29T21:25:00.000-07:00

I miss Spain!! Lately I have been thinking about Spain and how beautiful it is and I really want to go back. It is hard to believe that it's been two years. I'm trying to convince Bodie to go on a trip there, now's the time! We're young and together so why not?!

I can be crafty too!

2009-07-12T14:18:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my friend Julie I was inspired to make my own headband! It was really fun! I got some cheap headbands and then bought some pretty ribbon and flowers and voila...you've got a headband.

More 4th of July

2009-07-12T14:11:00.000-07:00

Here are some more pictures..next year I need to take more!

Fireworks!

This is where the firework show took place

Everybody waiting for the show to start

HAIL!

Happy 4th of July

2009-07-12T13:59:00.000-07:00

Bodie and I had a great 4th of July this year! We went up to Dubois, Wyoming and spent the weekend in a cabin with his Mom and Dad and his Aunt and Uncle and their kids. We had a great time! The weather was playing tricks on, one minute it was nice and sunny and the next it was pouring rain and even hailing...it was nuts! We woke up on the morning of the 4th and Ann, his Aunt, had cooked some delicious pancakes what a great way to start the day. Then we went fishing! It was great. Bodie's mom was pulling her line back in and Kelly, his Dad, told her "You'll never catch anything if you keep dragging it in." Well when she pulled her line out of the water a fish was attached! It was hilarious. After a little bit we got dumped on and it was pouring so we went back to the cabin and then it began to hail! Bodie ran out to our car and tried to cover it with blankets, I watched him as he kept getting pelted by the golf size hail stones it was quite amusing. Anywho we had a great time in Wyoming and Brady and Ann were so nice to have us up there. Who knows maybe it will become a tradition!

Beautiful Lake

Ann and Brady

Sam, Brooks and Tessa

Me and my man fishing

Leah catching her fish

Dancing with Mickey and Minney

2009-07-10T16:55:00.000-07:00

Bodie and I were so lucky because we got picked to dance with Mickey and Minney! It was so much fun. We had on Happy Anniversary pins and we were spotted by one of the cast members and chosen to dance with them. It was the best! Although I'm pretty sure that Mickey was a girl.

The most MAGICAL week

2009-07-10T16:43:00.000-07:00

Finally...here are some pictures of our MAGICAL week in Disneyland. It was AMAZING. I have never experienced Disneyland like that. I was happy to see Bodie HAPPY. He loved every minute of it. We woke up early every day to be the very first people to get in the park, it was emotional being at the gate and shouting "Let the magic begin!" and then rushing in. One of my favorite mornings was watching Bodie and Dave speed walk down Main Street to be the first ones at Peter Pan, it was hilarious! We loved every minute. So here's a shout out to Allyson and Todd for the BEST week ever, love you guys!!

David taking Judy for a stroll

Toontown

I LOVE Minney

The whole gang

Our First Day in the Magical Wonderland

Happy Anniversary

2009-06-30T20:39:00.000-07:00

Bodie and I had a great Anniversary this year. We watched our wedding video and ate our wedding cake! Yes, after a year it still tasted good...don't ask Bodie he will tell you differently. After cake and movie we were off to California! We spent the week at Disneyland. Our first night in California was our Anniversary and we walked around and ended up ordering pizza in our hotel room, it was just our style! I love Bodie so much and it was the perfect way to celebrate.

Walking around in beautiful, sunny California

After one year we're still HAPPY

The wedding cake

Happy Graduation to Me

2009-06-30T20:35:00.000-07:00

Well I have the best husband, he decided it was time to get me my very own car. And not just any old car, but a brand new car!! We had been looking around for a new car and this one happened to fall right into our lap and I LOVE it! It is the best car. It's a Toyota Corrolla and it is so much fun to drive. So Happy Graduation to ME!

Memorial Day Getaway

2009-06-30T20:24:00.000-07:00

This last Memorial Day Bodie and I wanted to go somewhere but we didn't know where, until...his Uncle Andy invited us up to his property for some good old fashion camping! His Uncle has some property up near Duchesne and we had so much fun! We finally used our tent that we got for our wedding and it was the perfect size for us two. We had a great time riding on the four-wheeler, sitting around the campfire and playing games. It rained quite a bit while we were there and luckily his Uncle had a trailer so we could hang out in there and have some fun. We had a great time with Andy and Jakie and we can't wait to do it again.

Bodie and I at Starvation Reservoir

Us on the quad

We hiked up to a view of the lake

Bodie in his natural element

One Year..and a few days

2009-06-20T07:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary! Bodie and I made it! Our first year was quite the roller coaster ride and there isn't anyone else that I would want to be with. We learned a lot about each other and I grew to love Bodie even more than the day I married him. A year ago today I married my friend, the one I laugh with, live for, dream with, love. I love my husband so much and I look forward to spending forever with him.

Race for the Cure

2009-05-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

I was talking to my sister-in-law Alex about doing the Race for the Cure weeks ago but lo and behold I did not sign up and inevitably decided I would not be doing it. Then while we were sitting enjoying Cheesecake Factory after my graduation David and Holly talked about how they were going to be running it, so...Allyson and I decided to join in on the fun! We had a blast. We got a little emotional in the beginning because it was so touching to see all those people there for the same great cause. It turns out there were about 19,000 people there, I think. All I know is that it was packed. Anywho we had a lot of fun and we actually did pretty good! Go us!

Looking gorgeous after the race

Meeting up with David and Holly

I did it!!

2009-05-09T21:45:00.000-07:00

Friday May 8 I officially graduated from the University of Utah. I'm so happy! I graduated back in December but you have to wait until the Spring to walk, and so I now I feel officially graduated. It feels good. I was lucky to have some of my family there: Allyson, Todd, Tanner, Elizabeth, Dave, Holly, my Mom and Bodie. It was quite the party. Thank you guys for coming out and supporting me, especially Allyson and Todd for coming down from Idaho. It was a great day. We celebrated afterward at the Cheesecake Factory, it was delicious. And then we got 8 different kind of cheesecakes to go, we went home and I was blind folded and I had to guess what each of them were..if you think it sounds easy it's not! It was really fun. It was a great day and I'm so glad that I m finally done, it only took me 7 years! :) "A lot of people go to school for 7 years..Yeah they're called doctors." (haha)

Just after I received my "diploma"

Me and my wonderful, supporting husband

My brother and sister

The group minus Elizabeth who was running around

My amazing mother

It's always better when we're together

2009-05-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

I love the Jack Johnson song "Better together" because it perfectly describes how I feel for my husband Bodie. Life can be crazy and with the everyday stresses it is so nice to break away from it all and just relax and have a good time with my husband because it really is always "better when we're together." After a long and stressful week Bodie took me for a nice drive up East Canyon, it is beautiful up there. And because Bodie has a special UDOT key we were able to sneak up there and have our very own private party of our own. We had a great time!

A beautiful sunset

Up East Canyon

Watching the sunset

East Canyon..still snowy

Babies!

2009-03-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

My grandma passed away about a month ago and although it was really sad it was also really nice to see everyone. I was amazed at all the babies. We had a lot of fun playing with Tanner, Elizabeth, Lucie, Jane and Gavin. They are the cutest! And Bodie was so cute with all of them, Lucie and Elizabeth loved playing with him and at one point they couldn't find him and Elizabeth said to Lucie "We have to find Bodie." So adorable! He was also very good at getting Jane to stop crying. Lets just hope he has that same magic charm with our kids!

California

2009-03-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

Well I have some pictures that are a few weeks old and I thought it was time I blogged about some recent events...time for a little catch up.

Last month Melissa asked me to go with her for a few days to California so that I could take care of Jane. Well since I had just heard news that I was being layed off I jumped on the idea. We spent just a few days there and we were in Santa Monica. It was beautiful. It was so nice to get away from the cold weather for a little bit and just hang out with cute baby Jane. Our hotel was right next to the beach so Jane and I did a lot of walking, it was a lot of fun. It was also nice to spend some time with Melissa.

Me and cute Jane

Jane has the cutest smile!

The Santa Monica Pier

More of the Pier and the ocean

Palm trees!!

Tagged you last Grandma

2009-03-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

My wonderful grandma passed away about a month ago and it was really hard. She was such a fun grandma, she made everything the best. For about 15 years we lived just up the street from my grandparents and everyday I would walk to their house after school and it was always so much fun. Grandma would make me some sugar toast, toast with lots of butter and sugar, sometimes chocolate sprinkles it was the best. Grandma loved games, and she always had to win! The hours would pass by as we played dice and hearts and watched movies. Leaving her house was hard because she never wanted you to leave, and so she "punished" us by playing a game of tagged you last..and she was very good at it. She loved that she was Dutch and we all loved her because of it, every birthday we still sing "Lon sall salava" I'm not so sure how to spell it. One of my favorite memories was spending a week with her and Grandpa in St. George and going to 3 different Wal-Marts, she loved shopping. And we spent a few hours trying on gowns and she kept saying "How does this one look?" She loved to look fabulous, and she always did. She passed away in her home with grandkids, daughters and babies all around talking and laughing just the way she would have liked it. I'll miss my Grandma but I know she's still around looking down with her big, beautiful smile. I'm grateful for my knowledge of the Plan of Salvation and I know I will see her again. Love you Grandma!

Pay it forward

2009-03-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

I got this idea from my friend Maricela..so it's time to pay it forward. Here is the name of the game. The first 3 people to leave a comment will receive from me in the next little while a homemade gift, that's right Megan stamped and everything. However there is one catch you must play along! So after leaving a comment for me go on to your blog and post the same thing about Paying it forward and lets get crafty people! I know I have a very small amount of readers so I hope that at least 3 people will comment. Please! Don't embarass me here. Just think Hayley Joel Osment and Helen Hunt and you will feel all warm inside and want to participate. So get to it!

Blond moment

2009-03-05T14:18:00.000-08:00

I know that my hair is now a dark brown, but it must be growing in blond because today I had the biggest blond moment ever! I went home for lunch today because I forgot to bring a lunch to work. So I drove home and as many are familiar with the parking situation at my house (it's awful) know that when you can find a spot you have to take it. So I pulled in and then this kind woman said hey pull into my spot I have 45 min on my meter, so I thought great I can stay longer! Well just as I was going to pull in some guy stole it. I was outraged, that was my spot! So I begrudgingly pulled back into my own and the whole time just dwelling on how mad I was. Well while thinking about all of that I stepped out of the car, locked my car door, put money in my meter and walked into my house. 30 minutes passed by and I was just hanging out watching a little Biggest Loser and eating. When it was time to leave I looked for my car keys and they were nowhere to be found! So I thought man I must have locked them in the car. I walked downstairs and sure enough my keys were in there...and not only were my keys in there but the car was running! How does that even happen?! Well I never that was possible, but yes I did it. There you go another blond moment by Megan, I guess it doesn't matter what color I dye my hair I will always be blond.

True Beauty

2009-02-12T07:18:00.000-08:00

I recently (just a few days ago) started watching a tv series called True Beauty. I was about to go to bed when it sucked me and made me sit back down on the couch. Well if you haven't heard of it here is a brief synopsis. It is a reality show that started out with 10 contestants and the winner of the show gets their picture in People Magazine 100 most beautiful people. Everyone on the show thinks they are a 10 and they are not afraid to come out and say it. Throughout the shows there are several changes to test the "beauties". There are hidden cameras and the "beauties" are being watched and judged on their inner beauty. The first episode they were scientifically measured by a doctor to see how beautiful they are, what kind of a doctor does that?? So this guy was being measured and he told the doctor that he doesn't think you can measure beauty and the doctor said "well people pay me to do this" and the guy responded "well people buy crack too, does that make it right?" I loved it! Anyway if you love to waste time and watch useless things than this is your show. Warning: This tv series is addicting.

Hockey!!

2009-02-09T18:04:00.000-08:00

We had the chance to go watch Bodie's brother Shane play hockey. It was a fundraiser for a Special Needs Hockey team. We went with his whole family and it was fun to watch Shane play, he is really good! Not as good as Bodie though. :) Anyway we had a good time watching him play and chatting. I think Bodie enjoyed having some man time with his Dad, Grandpa, and brother-in-law Jeremy.

My handsome husband, he loves pictures

Some of the men folk

Bodie having some male-bonding time

Shane, just after he scored

There's Number 12!

Hard times are headed this way

2009-02-03T19:35:00.000-08:00

I recently blogged about "optimism"..man was I ever wrong! Well the sad news came in yesterday that me and another girl in my office were being laid off. Sad, but true. It all started yesterday morning when my boss acted like a total beast (I want to use another word but I won't). She was cranky all morning long being rude to everyone. And people, important people, kept going in and out of her office. I noticed of course because my office is right next to hers. Anywho I was talking to Bodie and I told him I felt like something was going to happen and I would talk to him about it later because everyone could hear me. Well my gut was right, something was going down...me. My boss came into my office which I share with another girl, the same girl who got laid off with me. Well she came in and shut the door. Right away I knew something was wrong. When I turned around her face was bright red and she was bawling. So we knew what was coming. It was funny sitting there being told we were getting laid off and having to comfort our boss, shouldn't it be the other way around? So me and my favorite co-worker Maricela were laid off. We were the only Spanish speaking employees and they lost us! I loved Maricela's reaction she said "Good, I was hoping this would happen." Funny how people react in different situations. Anyway that's it, my very first real job out of college and I was there for a second and then boom..goodbye. Well Utah Department of Health it was fun while it lasted.

Keep on keepin' on

2009-01-28T14:26:00.000-08:00

Lately at my work there has been talk of the dreaded "budget cuts." In the beginning of the week I was discouraged and frustrated of the idea of having to look for a new job. Apparently the legislature has the Health Department on a huge chopping block and they could be cutting into our program. At first I was mad, upset, angry, sad..but then I got over those feelings and I am trying a new thing, it's called OPTIMISM. You never know what the future holds and we can either get angry and upset when things are not going our way or we can think positively. Whatever happens happens. And really I have always been a true believer in the phrase that "if it's meant to be then it's meant to be." So I'm trying to keep on a happy face because lets face it life is good! I've got an amazing husband, an awesome family! What more could a girl ask for? Maybe a new pair of shoes...

A new me

2009-01-21T17:58:00.000-08:00

Drum roll please....Well this is the new me!! I decided to get crazy and try something new so I dyed my hair brown!! It is something I have been thinking about doing and so with the help of my dear Zackie we did it. I haven't really told anyone so this is my grand entrance I guess. You'll have to let me know what you think. I still feel like a blond, and it is weird to see myself in the mirror sometimes. But Bodie loves it! He was in total shock when I revealed the new me, probably because I didn't tell him I was doing it. Anyway I hope you enjoy the photos!

Whoa scary (the process)

Here I am!

Bonding Time

2009-01-21T17:52:00.000-08:00

We had a bonding moment last weekend when we decided to go and shoot guns together. Well I am a Watkins so I have that FBI blood in me and lets just say Bodie was impressed with my aim. We went up Parleys Canyon to a shooting range and it was freezing but it surprisingly was a lot of fun! And I hate to admit this but I love my gun. So I think Bodie and I may have found something we love to do together.

This gun had a little kick in it

Here is me with my gun

The lovely redneck couple

That's the man!

Oooh check out those guns

Sundance

2009-01-21T17:44:00.000-08:00

Bodie and I had a small run in with the stars at Sundance, and when I say small I mean very small. We had a little extra time to spare and so we decided to go up to Park City and walk around. Parking was a disaster there were so many people driving around it was crazy. We finally found somewhere free to park so that was sweet. We walked around and we found Heidi! So that was lucky. We ended up walking around with her and this crazy guy Skippy, Skippy is "too hot too handle" and he was handing out celebrity oven mits to people he met, yes Skippy was a little crazy. Anyway it was a fun, quick little visit. We saw some guy from Real World, Efram from Everwood and Mariah Carey! I actually ran up a steep hill for her, which was extremely difficult considering how little I've exercised lately. Anyway we had a blast, and I'm grateful for my loving, patient husband who let me do something I love..scope out the stars!

The back of Mariah Carey

Me, Greg Smith (Efram) and Heidi

Heidi and her "boyfriend" Greg Smith

Me and cute Bodie hanging out

St. George

2009-01-13T19:13:00.000-08:00

Bodie and I had the chance to get out of Salt Lake last weekend and we took it! Bodie's sister Alex and her husband Jeremy invited us to go to St. George where Jeremy was going to be in a golf tournament. It was so much fun! We were able to just hang out and have some fun. Some highlights of our little getaway: shopping at the Outlets (I love shopping) even though Bodie was suffering, wrestling in front of the St. George temple, eating at Pizza Factory, playing games, hiking the red rocks, and just hanging out! We loved spending time with Alex and Jeremy since we don't get to see them very often because they live in Logan. Anywho it was a great trip and a lot of fun!!

The Bachelor

2009-01-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

I have always been a Bachelor fan, even the Bachelorette can be entertaining. I think what is so interesting about the Bachelor is the women and how much they fight. I love the drama. I'm not saying I would like that drama in my life but it is nice to watch from afar and be thoroughly entertained. This season on the Bachelor it is Jason, the guy that was rejected by Deanna for Jesse (they broke up anyway). Well Jason really bugged me during the Bachelorette, he was soooo cheesy with Deanna and I just could not take it sometimes. However as the Bachelor, I love Jason! Maybe because he is the one that can sit pretty and let the ladies impress him and he doesn't have to work so hard. Anyway I love watching it. I once had a Bachelor party with some friends where roses were passed out and we sipped on some sparkling bubbly goodness, yes sometimes I'm a bit pathetic. So far this season there is no one that has stuck out, I think it is still too soon to tell. All will be revealed on this season of The Bachelor!

I Got TAGGED..awhile ago..but here it is..

2009-01-07T16:29:00.000-08:00

Rules:

1) Post rules on your blog
2) Answer the six '8' items
3) Let each person know by leaving them a comment

8 Favorite TV shows

1. One Tree Hill (of course)
2. Biggest Loser (very motivating)
3. Prison Break (I love Michael)
4. Gossip Girl (guilty pleasure)
5. Privileged
6. The Bachelor (I love LOVE)
7. 90210 (yes the new one)
8. Americas Next Top Model

8 Things I did yesterday

1. Woke up way too early
2. Worked all day long
3. Spoke to people in Spanish
4. Missed my husband
5. Drove home in the snow
6. Finished laundry
7. Watched Biggest Loser
8. Worked out (yeah!)

8 Things I look forward to

1. Summer
2. Bodie being done with school
3. My birthday (best day ever!)
4. Winning the Biggest Loser
5. Wearing my bedazzled jeans
6. Taking a trip with Bodie
7. The next Twilight movie
8. Buying a house!

8 Favorite Restaurants

1. Spaghetti Factory
2. Ruby River Steakhouse
3. Little Caesars (hot-n-ready baby!)
4. Cafe Rio
5. California Pizza Kitchen
6. Cindy Lee's Cafe (woo-hoo Chinese)
7. Sawadee (yum crab cakes!)
8. Chuck-a-rama (yes I'm guilty, I love their scones)

8 Things on my wish-list

1. Date night with my husband
2. Trip around the world
3. Trip back to Spain
4. Winning Biggest Loser
5. Paul Walker
6. A house
7. A new journal
8. More pictures!

8 People I tag

1. Amy
2. Allyson
3. Laura
4. Heidi
5. Marisela
6. Courtney
7. Dana
8. Melissa & Josh

Thanks Shawnee!

More Christmas

2008-12-31T07:19:00.001-08:00

Cousins!

Me with baby Jane

Lucie being Ariel

Elizabeth-the perfect Snow White

Cute Jane

Christmas!!

2008-12-31T07:05:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year was awesome! I loved having everyone in town, minus Amy :( we missed her a lot. Anyway it was fun having all the kids around I miss the chaos! We had such a good time. This year we decided to open all our presents on Christmas Eve and the kids went wild. It was way fun to watch. Bodie had to work a lot which was kind of a downer but we made the most of it. Anywho it was a great Christmas and I'm so glad I could spend time with the people that matter most in my life, my wonderful family! Happy New Year!!

My cute husband

Tanner and Elizabeth couldn't wait

Bodie opening presents

Hey-oh!

Christmas morning

Christmas is full of surprises

2008-12-29T09:20:00.000-08:00

Well this Christmas was full of surprises for me! It was mine and Bodies first Christmas together as husband and wife. I spent months trying to figure out what to get him and finally decided on a Craftsman wrench set, the nice man at Sears helped me with that one. And he loved it! Well on Christmas Eve we only spent a few hours together because he had to work (stupid snow!) so he wanted to give me part of my present. I was so surprised because it was a brand new camera!! And I love it!! It is so cute and thin and just perfect. So I was very excited about that gift. All Christmas Eve I kept taking pictures.

Well Christmas day I wasn't expecting anything because the camera was such a big gift. But no Bodie had another surprise and this one was a big surprise. Early Christmas morning we went to his parents house and when we got back home he told me to go upstairs and he'd bring up my gift. Well he came in and he put in front of me something I would never think could possible be for me. A gun!!

Mind you I made no hints that I wanted a gun. Oh Bodie. I have to give him some credit he thought it would be a fun activity we could do together. Well that was our first Christmas! Maybe next year I'll get him a sewing machine. Stay tuned for more Christmas and pictures...

I love Utah

2008-12-24T09:05:00.000-08:00

Last week I started my job with the State of Utah Department of Health. And I really like it! I love everyone I work with, which is just a small office of women only, there are 8 of us. So small is nice, we will either really love each other or really hate each other and I think we're leaning more toward the love these days..maybe because it's Christmas. Anyway I think I will like what I'm going to do. My title is Health Program Specialist and so I have to know about the different programs, and we interview people for the Baby your Baby Program. The cool thing is I get to talk to people in Spanish which I love! Speaking of which mi espanol is a little rusty these days. Well that comes down to my final point I love Utah! I love state jobs! We get amazing benefits and so I am enjoying myself thus far. I'll keep you updated if that changes.

Kurt Bestor

2008-12-16T18:22:00.000-08:00

After a very very stressful and overwhelming week I finally did it! I made it through finals and papers (yuck!) and even the Wicked on sale! W-O-W Wow is all I can say (haha). So after enduring that emotional overload I was able to relax Friday night and spend time with my wonderful family at the Kurt Bestor concert. It has become somewhat of a tradition for us to go and it really gets me in the Christmas spirit. It was the perfect end to an awful week. So Merry Merry Christmas everyone if you haven't caught that good ol' spirit yet!

Me and the Bodester

Holly, Dave, Mom, me and Bodie (the Kurt Bestor fan club)

Thanksgiving

2008-12-11T21:04:00.000-08:00

Well I know it is almost Christmas time but I wanted to reflect back on our wonderful turkey day. This was our first Thanksgiving together, since last year I went to Idaho with my mom. We had a great Thanksgiving. We spent the day with Bodie's family at his Grandma's house and it was quite a Bowthorpe event, everyone was there! I tried making yams this year and lets just say they did not turn out how I wanted them to I missed my moms yams with the marshmallows those are the best. But I survived. We got everyone together and played a really funny game where you have to make animal noises, listening to Bodie's Uncles was the best. Overall it was a wonderful night and I'm so happy to be a part of the Bowthorpe family.

Graduation

2008-12-02T12:02:00.000-08:00

Okay so it is not high school but there will certainly be some singing and dancing once I graduate in 2 weeks!!!! I'm so excited to be done with school, I can't even wait. It is also sad to think that I will no longer be a student, I can no longer hide behind my studies it can't be my excuse anymore.."I'd love to (fill in the blank) but I have school" or "sorry but I have homework" No more of that! It will be nice to go into the real world and actually have a full time job, I wonder what that will be like. For those of you that don't know I got a new job! I will be working for the state, in the health department. Crazy! That's right folks little Megan is growing up. Now I just have to get through the next few weeks!

Confession

2008-11-21T13:30:00.000-08:00

So it is time to come out and admit something that some people already know but I have decided to share this love with everyone else. I LOVE Dawson's Creek!! I can't get enough of it. When I was in high school it was my favorite show and I would obsess over Joey and Pacey and then Joey and Dawson and of course the hot gay guy Jack, and Jen was always in the mix somehow too. Every wednesday night I would record it because wednesdays were mutual night so I couldn't stay home and watch it. And then I would get so excited knowing I could go watch it. Mostly I would watch it with Meredith Bevan, we loved doing that together! And still everytime I hear that Paula Cole song "I don't wanna wait" I think of my beloved Dawson's Creek. Recently I got the DVDs and when Bodie isn't around I watch them because he would never watch it with me. And I love them! They changed the theme song which really bugs me but it is still my wonderful and cheesy Dawson's Creek.

Yet another haircut

2008-11-16T21:53:00.000-08:00

Well I have gotten more daring with my hair recently and here is the latest. My cute Zackie did it and he did such a good job, I love it! Anyway it is just something fun and new for the winter. Going to the salon is always fun because I get to spend the whole day with one of my best friends! And Zack is the best at the scalp massage. So thank you Zack for being such an artistic genius, love you! And Bodie loves my new hair he thinks its hot!

Here I am..I love the dark

Another angle

Compañeras

2008-11-13T10:16:00.000-08:00

Compis!!! Last night I was lucky enough to have a fun dinner with my two compañeras! It was so much fun. We met up at Zupas which is a very yummy sandwich, soup and salad place, I love it. The best part is every meal comes with a chocolate dipped strawberry. Anyway it was a blast, we were able to finally reconnect. I was in a trio with these two compis and we definitely shared some crazy times. I'm surprised that we stayed so close considering that I trained them and usually trainees don't get along with their trainers. We had so much fun catching up and talking about the mission I love those girls so much! Afterward my cheeks hurt from smiling so much. It's crazy how close you can get to your companions they become like sisters. So here are some pics of me and my girls.

Compis! Our famous pic

All cuddled up in the booth

Book Club

2008-11-10T19:39:00.000-08:00

So last weekend was my first official book club meeting, and it was so much fun! I missed the first one because I was out of town but I won't let that happen again. We went to Sunny's house and Sunny made homemade french onion soup with baguettes, it was soooo good! We talked about Sense and Sensibility and then of course the conversation turned to other things...but we did decide on what we are going to be reading for the next meeting. Sunny chose the book Kite Runner, so I'm excited to start reading it! It was fun to see my friends, I've kind of been stuck in my own little hole on the 7th floor so it was good to get out.

This was the table that Sunny set up so nicely

Yeah book club!! This is the book!

Here we are reading

Sadly Lisa and Julie left before the picture taking began so here they are...

Man we are dorks! :)

Hockey!!

2008-11-04T10:09:00.000-08:00

Well I decided to post a special tribute to my cute husband and something he LOVES to do...play hockey! Bodie played hockey in high school and he still plays with his Dad, uncle and brother it's a family event. This summer he played in a league with his family and the Bowthorpes boys dominated! It was fun watching from the stands even though it can be scary sometimes, old men are mean. I went to the last game of the season and it was way intense. The best part of the game was when Bodie's Grandpa who isn't afraid to tell everyone what he thinks got kicked out of the game! And he was only watching. They played a good game and were way better sports than the other team who kept checking them (I think that's right) even though it's illegal in this league! After the game Bodie's Grandpa again got into trouble when he followed the refs out to the parking lot yelling at them the whole time! It was hilarious. We love you Grandpa! Anyway I'm glad Bodie has something he loves to do and he is soooo good at it. I love you Bodie, you're my favorite player.

Bodie's Uncle Andy

Bodie looking mean in the penalty box

Right in the action..go team go!

Halloween Fun

2008-10-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

So it is one of my favorite times of year, Halloween! Since we're living at home we can't really decorate and my mom is always out of town so I haven't quite gotten in the mood this year. Well last weekend Bodie and I finally got into the spirit of things! Friday night we went to the Off Broadway Theatre, they usually do quick wits and they also have funny plays. So we went and saw the Dracula vs. The Hunchback and it was hilarious! Bodie is hard to please sometimes and he was laughing more than me. It was really fun.

Then I decided that I wanted to buy a pumpkin, I really wanted to go to a pumpkin patch but that didn't work out so instead I just went and bought one while grocery shopping. Well I do not like carving pumpkins for some reason, I did it with friends a few years ago and hated it and then last year Bodie and I did it with some friends and I made him do all the work. So I decided to try something new this year..I painted my pumpkin! And I love it! So here is my cute pumpkin.

CoMo?

2008-10-23T15:42:00.000-07:00

CoMo? That's right CoMo, Columbia Missouri. That is where I spent my fall break! Why of all places would I go to CoMo you would ask..well because my wonderful sister and husband live there! My mom and I flew out to Missouri and we took three different planes to get there. We got to the airport at 6 in the morning (yikes!) and we got to Columbia around 8 that night, that's right an entire day of airports, getting on and off airplanes without free airplane food! Yeah they don't do that anymore. It was quite a shock when we had to go outside and board our very small plane from Memphis to Columbia I was a little nervous.

Anyway when we got there the airport was tiny! It was awesome to be in such a small town, I guess it's not too small they do have 3 Walmarts! Of course we had to go to all of them..haha. So Melissa was still very much pregnant and rather than sit and rest before the baby came she wanted to get out and show us her town! It was so much fun to be with her and Lucie, oh I just love Lucie! How can you not? We first went to Lucie's gymnastic which was really fun to watch, Lucie is crazy she is all over everything and not even afraid of what she's doing! We had a great time. Then we went downtown and walked around, they have a really cute downtown area.

Downtown

Cute Lucie
Another highlight of the week was Columbia's annual Pumpkin Festival! It was awesome. The country was gorgeous and there were so many pumpkins and yummy things to eat! Some of the highlights were watching Lucie ride the horse, she loved it she was the happiest girl there. And then we were taking some pictures by the pumpkins and Lucie went over to where these parents were taking a picture of their little boy so Lucie went and started to pose for their camera, she really wanted her picture taken!

Lucie posing

Pumpkins!

Lucie riding a pony
Anyway it was a great trip! I loved Missouri, but mostly I loved being able to see Josh and Melissa and Lucie! It was also fun to see new baby Jane, unfortunately I have no pictures of her but she is adorable I love her.

My new sweet baby - Bowthorpe!

2008-09-30T19:56:00.001-07:00

What do you think about my little new baby Bowthorpe?
MakeMeBabies.com - What will your baby look like?

Baby Bowthorpe

2008-09-30T19:47:00.000-07:00

Here is our baby boy.."wow our kids are attractive." (Name that movie) Well I decided to find out what Bodie and I have coming and I think after seeing the results we're going to wait a little while longer.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!

2008-09-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

You say it's your birthday..it's my birthday too! Well my birthday was this week and it was great! Sadly we did not take any pictures so I will just have to mentally remember my day. Well I didn't have school or work so I got to sleep in which is any birthday girls wish! Then I spent the day with my mom, we went and got our nails done and then just hung out. Later Bodie got off work and he came home and gave me a really cute gift. It is a wood carving of a couple holding each other, and the card he gave me sang the song "I got you babe" and part of the lyrics are "I got you to hold me tight" and he wanted that part to play as I opened the gift..he's so sweet! Well then my mom and Bodie threw me a surprise party! Some friends came and it was just a small little party but it was perfect! The surprise part kind of got spoiled but other than that it was a good time all ending with my favorite Costco chocolate cake! YUM! It looks something like this:

Anyway it was a great birthday so thanks everyone for making it wonderful! Especially my amazing family, thanks Dave and Holly for being so tricky, and Lisa and Zack and my BFF Court...And my mom is the best, she is always good about birthdays. And Bodie is such a good husband, I love him so much! So much fun. And now since I don't have any current birthday pics here are some from last year..the pink party.
Bodie and I in our pink

And of course my costco chocolate cake

Well almost everyone here was at the party this year

Moving on and moving in

2008-09-06T17:22:00.001-07:00

Well it is official..Bodie and I are moving out of our cinder block apartment and into my mom's back bedroom. We are moving up in the world! We are actually very excited to be able to have light in our house, the student apartments are so dark, and Bodie thinks that it'll make us more happy. :) So he moved our bed yesterday and now its just time to move a few more things. But who would have thought after only 3 months of being married I'd move back home with my husband nonetheless! I think we are going to have a great time and we can give my mom some company, no more empty nest for her. So we're moving on and moving in!

And no that is not a picture of Bodie in the car unless I married a mexican man and forgot about it! I just liked the pic.

Birthday Fun

2008-08-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was Zack and Lisa's birthday celebration and it was fabulous. In the morning we went down the Provo river in tubes, it was so much fun! The weather was perfect, and because we were floating and getting wet I decided not to bring a camera. There were about nine of us floating down and we decided to stay hooked the whole way down and it was a blast. Besides a few blows with some branches on the side of the river it was a gorgeous ride and a good time with friends. Of course when it came time to get out of the boat I found myself trapped under the current and not able to stand on the slippery rocks so Zack had to come to my rescue..haha. We then ate at Red Robin it being a tradition and gorged ourselves with hamburger and the best free cake ever! That night it was party time! Bodie was working all day putting the bridge up on 3300 south, he had been working on it all summer. He was so tired but he was still a good sport about going to the birthday party. We had a little get together at Lisa and Matt's place with games, margaritas and of course cake! It was a great day, love you Zack and Lisa and Happy Birthday!

Yummy birthday cake!

The birthday pair

Best Friends Forever

Bodie fell asleep on the couch he was exhausted after working all day!

The rest of the gang

Broadway Rocks!

2008-08-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

Bodie and I along with some of our friends and family had the chance to go to a Deer Valley Concert last weekend, and it was fabulous! Needless to say Broadway does rock! We lounged out on blankets and had a picnic and listened to the fun music, it was a great time. We are definitely going to make it a tradition. So here's to Broadway!

Like the new hair?

2008-08-01T07:35:00.000-07:00

Well it being summer and all I decided to get a little bit of a haircut..and it turned out to be a lot of a haircut, if that makes sense. But I thought, por que no? Hair always grows back. I have always wanted to try swoopy bangs so I went into to see my cute Zack and voila a new me! I didn't let Bodie know what I was doing and so when I got home that night he was shocked..and he loves it! So thats good. Anyway I thought I would show everyone the new me. These pictures were taken early in this morning so forgive my ugly just woken up face! Enjoy.

Roughin' It

2008-07-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

A few weekends ago Bodie and I went camping! It was our first time together and we had such a good time. We went with our good friends Matt and Lisa and they are professional campers. :) We drove up to Kamas and went up the canyon near there, we camped in a spot called Soapstone. So it was your good old fashioned car camping, not quite roughin' it but hey no bed and no running water thats roughin' it for me! My cute husband is the best little camper he set up everything, I tried to help but really I was just getting in the way. I told him later that I let him do everything so he could feel more manly, and he replied no it's the other way around I wanted you to feel more girly! He's so funny. It sounds like my camping trip with Dave..remember Dave carrying all our stuff? You're the best! Anyway the weather was gorgeous, we were so lucky. We went hiking to a beautiful lake and we even got to see a moose! I got a nasty sunburn..should have used sunscreen! At night we played games and hung around the campfire. All in all it was a great little trip! I loved camping with Bodie and it was fun using our new stuff, sleeping bags and air mattress and all that camping equip. The great outdoors was certainly great, especially with my manly man Bodie!

Happy hikers

Taking a break

The gang

The very big moose

Down by the river with Lisa

Celebrity Collage by MyHeritage

2008-07-18T15:02:00.001-07:00

MyHeritage: Family tree - Genealogy - Celeb - Collage - Morph

Craftastic

2008-07-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

So as a wedding present my sister-in-law Alex made Bodie and I a magnet board and it was one of my favorite gifts. So she inspired me to make one too! My cute companion is getting married next tuesday and I am going to her shower today. I decided instead of sticking to her registry to get a little more crafty and creative. I thought it would be so easy to just run over to Roberts and buy the stuff I needed but boy was I wrong. I had to go to 4 different stores and still I didn't get everything, so the board I made is not quite as flashy but I still love it because I made it! So I hope you like it little Ms. Henderson.

4th of July The sparks are flying

2008-07-15T17:48:00.000-07:00

Well it was our first 4th of July together and Bodie just wanted to relax together and hang out all day..and that is just what we did! So we stayed at Bodie's parents house because they went out of town for the weekend we had a big house all to ourselves. So we slept in and we went and played tennis! It was a lot of fun, I must have been tired because I let Bodie win. :) Then we went to the store to get a bunch of goodies for the night, we even bought me a cute new cowgirl hat! The rest of the afternoon we relaxed, well I relaxed while Bodie worked out in his backyard (he can never stop working!). Instead of messing with a huge crowd we walked from his house to a parking lot that overlooks the whole valley and we saw about 5 different fireworks show, it was a lot of fun. I love my husband so much and I loved being able to be with him all day, so nice! It was the perfect day.

Hanging around

My cute new hat

Bodie a little caught off guard

A beautiful sunset

The happy couple, we look like we're camping

Honeymoon

2008-07-01T21:42:00.000-07:00

Well after all the wedding plan Bodie and I were glad to get a break and take off on our honeymoon. We spent our first night at Little America and the hotel room was bigger than our apartment! It was so much fun. We left the monday after our wedding for California, when we got there we went straight to our boat and we were off to Mexico!! When we got on the boat the first thing we did was eat lunch, we had cheeseburgers and they were amazing, that continued to be a routine everyday at lunch..amazing delicious burgers. Well we spent the next five days on the "fun" ship and we visited Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada. Cabo was a lot of fun, we went snorkeling in the ocean and that was a new experience for Bodie. When we jumped in the ocean he freaked out because he had never swam with fins on so he swam back to the boat for a life vest. Ensenada was a whole lot of shopping and the locals are definitely all up in your face it can be a bit much so I taught Bodie how to say "dejame en paz" which means leave me alone! He liked practicing that one. Well we were lucky enough to meet a really nice couple on the boat who got married the same day as us and they decided to give us as a wedding gift tickets to Sea World! So when we got off the boat we went straight to the amazing world of dolphins, whales and all those cool sea creatures. We had a blast. Now we are back home and everyday I tell Bodie "I want to go back on our honeymoon!" I guess there's always a second honeymoon.

Our cruise ship; Formal night; Shopping in Mexico

Los Cabos; Sea World; Cute dolphins

6-7-8

2008-06-28T11:33:00.000-07:00

Wedding Day! For those of you who could not make our big day here is a little recap of how wonderful it was. We got married in the Salt Lake Temple on June 7 and it was so amazing to have all of our family there. Everyone scared me with the idea that it was going to rain, but it didn't! It was a gorgeous day. It was a lot of picture taking and smiling and I loved every minute of it. There were 76 other brides that got married that same day..crazy! We had our reception at This is the Place Heritage Park and it was gorgeous. It was very green and it was a perfect location. When the reception began Bodie who had had a headache the whole day informed me that he was going to throw up right at that moment. So I told him to run around and throw up on the side of the house, which he did with our photographer capturing everything. The rest of the night was so much fun with people coming in and out greeting us. We cut the cake and again Bodie got sick! Terrible. It made for a good memory though. It was the perfect day and I wish I could live it all over again! We have the best family and they helped out with everything, so thanks wonderful family for making it a perfect day!
Walking out of the temple
The family
The happy couple
Cutting the cake-right before Bodie threw up

Newlyweds

2008-06-28T09:23:00.000-07:00

So I am new to this blogging thing but I am excited to join the club! Bodie and I have been married now for 3 weeks, it is so much fun. We are still getting settled into our new apartment. We thought that once we got married things would calm down but it seems that we are busier now! Who would have thought. We are both in summer school and working and so we aren't getting much of a summer! We make the most of it though. Anyway I'm just getting used to being Mrs. Bodie Bowthorpe and still remembering our perfect wedding day. Here are some of my favorite pictures from our day. And get ready for some more posts very soon..can you say honeymoon??!