Lovely Lights

Corey and I had such fun watching Elsie's eyes light up as we decorated the tree. She took every opportunity to help--even to clean up the pine needles from off the floor in true toddler fashion.

{straight into the mouth}

"Do {We} Have Room?"

This clip was passed along to me and it touched me so much I felt to post it. If we have room for Him, we will feel His love in abundance. With that love, we can do as he has commanded--that is to love one another as he has loved us. There is nothing else that can bring greater JOY--in its purest form--to our lives.

Southern Charm

Earlier in November, we paid a visit to the Rabe Family {Corey's sister and fam} and were warmly greeted and treated with all the Southern Charm you could imagine. When we walked in their apartment, you could smell the ever-so-yummy pumpkin chocolate-chip cookies she'd just brought out of the oven. She set them out on the most darling glass pedestal platter.
Those cookies hit the spot.
Ben, Kendra, Sophie, and Graham refreshed our memories with details of Civil War history. We ate at some really fun and cozy places--including a new ice cream parlor {MY FAVORITE}. A nice drive lead us to delightful Leiper's Fork, where we ate a
hearty Southern breakfast at Puckett's.
We learned all about Studio B where Elvis, Dotty West, and other Country heroes made their debut. We ended a fine trip walking down Broadway in Downtown Nashville listening to the twang in all its glory--echoing out into the streets. We LOVED it.
Thank you Rabes for a good time.

Hauntings 2009

I think I was most excited for Halloween this year. Being home was probably the main factor in my excitement {that's obviously an understatement}. I found this onsie and it made me think of a little strawberry. With Connor's generous consent in lending us his beanie (knitted by my aunt)--we added some felt details and voila! She's a sweetie! I thought I'd be clever and be some grapes. Corey didn't want to be a fruit--so he was nice to throw on the carrot costume for me. :) Thanks Corey. I probably took at least ten pictures of the "Elsie" jack-o-lantern carved by Mimi Crowell. We found it all lit up as we walked up to the Crowell's door. It was wonderful to trick-or-treat to our grandparents' homes and share the Hallow's Eve with family! Happy Haunting!

Miss Elsie Jayne turns 1

It is hard to believe Elsie was born a year ago! Elsie is nothing but smiles. She's really easy-going and LOVES to be around people. It's often hard to go down for naps because there is just so much to see and be a part of. It's amazing how this little soul can bring so much joy and purpose into our lives. How we love you, Elsie Jayne.

Our Hmoob {Hmong} Missionary

California Fresno Hmong-Speaking Mission here we come!

From Summerings

Kyle left for the MTC on August 19th and just flew to Fresno, CA last Wednesday. He called the day he left for the state and it was incredible to hear him speak Hmong! We also heard from him yesterday through an email saying he LOVES his area. He says the Hmong people are some of the sweetest, most genuine people. The Hmong language has 8 tones, so the First Vision Lesson kind of sounds like a song. I really am amazed at how fast Kyle has learned the language. There is no doubt an extra ability--aided by the Spirit--is pronounced upon those missionaries called by the Lord to share the message of his gospel to all the world.
We love you Kyle!

Island Park

This is the first time in a long while Corey and I were able to go up to Island Park with Corey's family. We love it up there. It's so quite and beautiful. There's nothing like eating, playing some golf, and just talking all together.

SuMMeRinGs

Well, Summer flew by. Obviously. Here it is November and I'm posting about summer events! My parents were so sweet to host a family birthday gathering for my 25th birthday. The trifle was DELICIOUS! It was nice to finally be home for the 4th--one of my very favorite holidays. What would the day be like without running the Riverdale 5k, having a BBQ with family, and watching parades & fireworks all together! Ben and Kendra came to town and introduced us to darling Graham--the cutest little guy with the biggest blue eyes I've ever seen. It was sure nice to be home with family and have some good times.

Five & Forever

Corey always sweeps me off my feet! This time he took me to Hawaii in celebration of our 5th Anniversary! Maui was our first stop. Corey's aunt and uncle who live on the island treated us like kings! Hiking, snorkeling, and biking down a volcano were a few highlights of our stay on Maui. We ate at one of the most DELICIOUS restaurants--Mama's Fish House. Highly recommend it. For dessert: Banana-crisp with a macadamia crust--Oh so tasty. :)
One short flight hopped us over to Oahu where we paid tribute to the USS Arizona and Pearl Harbor. We made our way to the North Shore and stayed at the Turtle Bay Resort--another strong recommendation. This resort is equipped with almost EVERYTHING--plus, it is so close to the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC), Waimea Falls, and the North Shore beaches. It is also very close to the Laie Temple--we wanted to do a session, but found it was closed for remodeling--it will look so beautiful when it's all complete. Corey and I agreed the PCC is a MUST. We wish we would have had more time to explore each of the islands.
Corey has taken me on adventure after adventure since we've been married. He is the best travel friend you could ever have. I NEVER have to worry about directions, hotel stays, or lost keys with Corey around. Hopefully more of the thoughtful, selfless, and optimistic Corey will rub off on me throughout the years. Happy 5th!

A Visit to Nauvoo

One of our visits on the way home from Boston was Nauvoo. It had been a while since I'd been and Corey'd never had a chance to visit the beautiful city. We decided to take turns watching Miss E so we each could participate in a temple session. The Nauvoo temple is one of the most beautiful temples I've ever been through. We felt very comfortable in Nauvoo and felt such a strong spirit of testimony of the early saints. The Trail of Hope left both Corey and me without words. We have decided this will not be the last time we visit Nauvoo.

Road Trip Home

We had a great trip home from Boston. We took the opportunity to stop and visit some good friends. Fortunately Miss E slept A LOT. Corey and I were SUPER lucky. She thought it was kind of neat to sit right up front with Daddy and Mama. We had a great time.

Okay...really

So, we finally hooked up our computer since our move from Boston to Ogden. There is so much to post since Elsie's squealing--the only footage you've since for months now--I know. After our yard sale this Friday and Saturday (held in Clearfield, on State Street across from Baskin Robins--for those of you interested), I'll have more time to keep you all updated. Posting soon...

An Awaited DREAM

What an awesome day to celebrate 2 years of hard and diligent work! We started out at Harvard Yard--bright and early to participate in the most authentic and original graduation ceremony I'd ever witnessed! We spent the day with family--tossed the cap in front of HBS' own Baker Library and shared some good times together.
I am more than proud of my Mr. Corey Crowell--so diligent and true in everything he does. This last year proved Corey a real optimist (some of you may laugh as if that isn't true enough)--with less job opportunities for Corey's graduation class, came an intense application process---more than we'd originally anticipated. We thought the second year of business school would give us a little more time to just enjoy Boston, HBS, and the surrounding area. Not saying it didn't, but given the economic situation it meant constantly looking hard for a job. I never heard Corey complain about not getting a job or second-round interview--or even so--passing a second-round interview, but not getting a job. With continued resolve to uncover what would fit Corey the most, we were very happy to find a perfect match. It didn't come by luck--although I am not the first to claim that I think Corey is just a lucky guy--I have been ever impressed at Corey and his determination to work hard every minute of these last two years. He has grown so much--not just academically. Congratuations to you Corey--for making real an awaited DREAM.

Girls at HBS

Along with some pics of our final Girls' Night at HBS, I've also included a couple of pics from Karaoke Night and Burdick's. Thanks to the first years for providing a first-class meal! It was so nice to sit around a table with some of your very favorite people and just talk all together one final time. What a perfect event ladies. I will miss constantly being around such bright, talented, fun, and overall incredible women. Love you gals!

Squeals

Elsie has found a great way to exercise her voice. She's discovered she can sound like a seal! Thanks to Angelika (our friend from Germany) and the footage from her visit (more pics to come)--we have a little clip to show you. Take it away Elsie!

Jumparoo

Our friends Patrick, Patricia, & Alex let us borrow their Jumparoo for Elsie to test out. I sat her down in the nest of toys and watched her look at one toy, then look at me...look at another toy... then look at me.

After seeing me smile every time she'd look at me--she'd get excited and jump--watch the lights dance to some jungle tunes--jump some more and...needless to say ladies and gents, her new favorite toy is the Jumparoo.

A Sleuth in the House

Our sweet friends gave Elsie this darling petticoat when she was born and I'm in such denial that she's growing out of it! I'm about ready to go out and by the exact same coat in a larger size I love it so much. Anywho, I wanted to take some pictures of Elsie dressed in the coat and couldn't help but think she looked like some sort of detective! Maybe that's why we've been getting smiles and coos--she's up to something. :)

Five-month Fans

We are such fans of Miss Elsie Jayne! She seriously is so much fun! Five months brings lots of smiles, cooing, and even more raspberries! She lifts her head up like a pro during her tummy-time. Her favorite book is still Seuss' Mr. Brown can Moo, Can You? We've heard her laugh a couple of times--despite the silly faces and obnoxious encouragement for more, we just have to capture those gems of a laugh when she gives them. :) She is so much more aware of her surroundings and always has to give a few last words before she finally falls asleep. Elsie is delightful and we just can't love her enough!

Section J Ski Trip

Stowe was quite pleasant this year with lots of sun--such a contrast to dreary, rainy weather last year! Yeah for good weather! Corey and I took turns chillin' with Elsie in the lodge. It will be fun in a few years when we can all do a run together. :) We'll miss all our friends in Section J 2009!

Meg & Lori come to town

We were delighted to have my cousin Meg accompanied by my sister Lori come to visit us! The decided to fly out here for their Spring Break--it was a little far from spring here in Boston to say the least, but we sure got some incredible pictures of Walden in white! Enjoyed Concord and it's history as well as the Freedom Trail/Historic Boston. Saw a shark or two at the aquarium along with the featured Jellies. :) We ended our tour with the impressive Breakers in RI--and even saw some surfers!! Yes--they were in wet suits--the Atlantic on this coast is cold! Thanks to Meg and Lori for a fun time!

Candlepins? Bowling? New England?

Here in these parts of the States, New England folk bowl with small, skinny pins and a hand-sized bowling ball, also known as Candlepin Bowling. Corey's section went last year to test it out and discovered it was a little more tricky than it originally looked. Needless to say, they ended up bowling with the beefier bowling balls and pins this year. I will say that in the very same bowling alley, the main floor is strictly designated for candlepin bowlers, where as a few lanes upstairs are for the irregulars.

Elsie is 4 Months!

We can't believe Elsie is already 4 months old! She is such a sweetie and loves to talk when she's not blowing raspberries!

All for the LOVE

Elsie enjoyed her very first Valentine's Day! We spent the whole day together. Because Valentine's Day fell on a Saturday, we took advantage of all the meals we could coordinate around hearts and all (thanks to Trader Joe's). Elsie sported her pink Valentine's shirt and we capped the day off with homemade pizza--a very favorite of Corey's. It was just nice to relax and spend time with those you LOVE.

Friends, Fondue, and a Friday Night

Our friends invited us over for a perfect warm meal on a cold night. We were introduced to some true fondue--in every sense of the word! The cheese was incredible! We stirred the cheesy pot with some bread, broccoli, and mushrooms. The cheese can't sit too long, otherwise it will burn--so it is your job to keep dipping and stirring! Should you lose your piece of bread or other dipping piece in the pool of cheese, it's your lucky day--you get to clean up afterwords!
One of the yummiest parts was when our friends mixed egg in with the remaining cheese and then we spread it on slices of bread! We had a great time! Thanks to our Swiss friends for wonderful company and a fun time!.

Meet the Rileys

So, since we were in NY, I knew I wanted to call Allison to maybe meet up for dinner or something. Within seconds of my phone call (thanks to Ashley for providing her number), Allison so generously offered us a place to stay--NOTE: Noah and Allison had just moved in to their DARLING apartment not 5 days earlier! How nice is that--She was totally willing to let a couple with little crying babe stay the night! I can't tell you what a great time we had catching up (poor Corey and Noah--I think Allison and I talked until our voices became horse)! Noah cooked up some FABULOUS German Pancakes and topped them off with delicious berries and powdered sugah.
One of the highlights during our visit with the Riley's was their gem-of-a-find table! It is the most unique table with awesome character. Way to go Allison! It was so cool I had to take pictures of the thing! Thanks to Noah and Allison for a memorable stay!

"NYC...There's Something About You"

Corey had a job interview in NJ and we decided to make a trip out of it! After his interview, we drove about an hour to see Miss Liberty for the first time! Needless to say, the experience left more of an impact on me than I originally thought. There is something about seeing not just a statue, but something that has become an icon for liberty, freedom, justice, and peace. Deep gratitude is an understatement, but it is all that I can express.

Happy 29th Birthday Corey!

Corey's Birthday was a memorable one as we went to the Beanpot Tournament the day before he turned 29! It was an intense game between Harvard and Boston University--ranked #1. Harvard played tough, but lost during the last few minutes! The funnest part was seeing just how avid the fans of each college were--especially from Boston University. There were certainly some die-hards.
On Corey's Birthday we went to the North End, ate some lovely Italian, and stopped by Modern Pastry for a chocolate-dipped, cream-cheese-filled cannoli! Happy Birthday Corey!

Elsie is 3 Months!!

Blessing

Blessing. It was such a blessing to be home with family for this beautiful occasion. Elsie Jayne sure is lucky to have her dad, Corey give her such an inspirational and detailed blessing. We feel very fortunate to have Elsie in our lives. She has brought more happiness than we both have ever experienced. Thank you to those who came to support. Thank you to those who aided in the blessing. Thank you to Corey for always being the anchor for Elsie and me.

Time with my Couz'n Connor

"Connor" says it all. :) We had a blast with family and this kid will make anyone smile!

the GREATS in our lives

What a blessing it is to have grandparents, and for Elsie--her great grandparents!It was neat for each of them to meet sweet Elsie. One of the many treats during the holiday break was to visit my Great--Elsie's Great Great Grandma--Ruesch. It was sweet to see her reach over to hold Elsie like one of her own--even at 87 years old. She is much more frail and not as energetic as she once was, yet she will give a good smile and her eyes are as deep as they'll come with wisdom, experience, laughter, and love.

Home for the Holidays

It was so nice to be home for Christmas and to celebrate the New Year with them. Thanks to our families for making it so comfortable for us. We enjoyed all the dinners, get-togethers, and games! We love you!