Saturday, April 11, 2015

As of Late

We've had a lot going on, so I'm going for a generic update in one place. Ready, begin.

I'm still working in the Young Women's organization at church. It's a heavier calling, since it's not just something you can do on Sunday. That being said, it's been such a rewarding experience. I have to work so hard, but I'm loving my girls so much.

Each year we have what is called "New Beginnings" where we invite all the girls in the ward who are going to turn twelve during the year, to come and learn about what the Young Women's organization is all about. The Beehives (ages 12-13), my class, were put in charge of the activity. I think it turned out really well. We played off the new theme for the year, "embark in the service of God" in our decor and in our discussions.

I knew it was a success when one of the darling 11 year olds bore her testimony that Sunday talking about how excited she was to be a young woman. So awesome.

Handouts: Each with a Special "Embark" Wrapper
Dessert Table
Flowers by my Lovely Advisor: Danielle Jacobson

In other news, we also had an awesome activity for all youth in our ward. Our Ward Mission Leader requested that Phil and I, along with other ward members, talk about their missions. We happily obliged. We brought some pictures, souvenirs, etc. Phil even brought Spam to share, a treat from his first area in Minnesota.

It was a blast. We talked all about what amazing experiences we had as missionaries. I felt so blessed to remember my time in Brasil, working as a servant of Christ. I'm so thrilled, as well, to have a husband who served. I know his mission helped make him the man he is today. 

Mission Relics
Since I'm on a roll talking about youth, I have to mention the amazing Book of Mormon Play put on by the Alpine Stake. Each ward's youth performed a story from The Book of Mormon and did an amazing job. My sister and the 9th Ward youth performed the coming of Christ, in 3 Nephi 11. Sariah played the piano, of course. What a beautiful job they did! I was so impressed with the Spirit and testimonies of the youth.

Hottie!!
In addition to all the stuff we've been doing at church, we've been making an effort to go to the temple twice a month. I'm starting to appreciate the peace and calm that comes at the temple. Plus, the flowers are gorgeous. Am I right?

Pansies Everywhere!
Happy weather means a happy Hannah. Phil and I have also had some wonderful dates together lately. One of my favorite things to do with Phil is eat. These are some of our treats from the last couple weeks. 

Authentic Tacos
Can't Stop.
We've also been spending a lot of time with this lady.

Sunday Selfie

There was also this time at Costco (or Costo according to Vera):


And this time: 


Outside of church and family, we've kept ourselves busy as well. I got a promotion at work, which means my life is so crazy, but also fun. It also means a serious increase in workload and travel. This summer alone, I'll be heading to India, Dallas, Orlando, and Chicago. And those are just work trips. 

All around though, we feel very blessed. Phil is graduating in less than two weeks, then traveling to Seattle for a research conference. Med school is just months away, and life is crazy all around. I can't believe how much has happened in our first year of marriage but I am loving all the memories. 

One Year Anniversary Celebrations

I'm way behind on updates, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to reminisce about our one year anniversary weekend celebration. It was absolutely amazing.

Since I planned our six month anniversary party, Phil took the liberty of planning our one year bash. And boy oh boy did he do an amazing job. We decided to do homemade gifts this year, so he gave me a note each day leading up to our anniversary. He cooked, cleaned and basically treated me like a queen.

The biggest part of the celebration was our weekend in Park City. We headed up on Friday after work and Phil had made reservations at the most amazing restaurant, Grappa. It's an Italian place and, now that we've been, I highly recommend it. The food is fabulous. The only downside was that they tried to sit us right in the middle of a high-traffic area, but my dashing hubby requested a table swap, which they happily obliged.

Model Status
Most Amazing Balsamic Dip I've Ever Eaten
Endless Bread
My Spicy Spaghetti
Post Devouring

The weekend was a blast. We went shopping at the outlets, and then came home to celebrate on our actual anniversary, which was a Sunday. Phil made homemade enchiladas, and I gave him his present. I made an exploding memory box, to incorporate a lot of our first memories in one place. (Big thanks to my mom for helping me get it together.) He loved it! Phil's always been enamored with homemade presents. 

Enchiladas with Homemade Tomatillo Sauce!
Outside of the Box
Layer One: Our Wedding, Lunch Notes, Our Trip to
Chicago, and Phil's Acceptance to Medical School 
Layer Two: Christmas, Our Trip to Mexico, Our First Apartment,
and Summer Bike Rides 
One Year Selfie
Phil, I love you! I feel like the luckiest girl in the world to be your wife. Thanks for making this past year the best of my life!