We love Cali!

We just got back from a quick, but fun trip to California. We had SUCH a great time and I've felt so rejuvenated! :) Here are some pictures from our little escape (with a bunch of Shaye's nieces and nephews.) :D

I swear Disneyland never loses its magic. I go back here and I remember what it felt like to be six and really believe I was a princess. Disneyland gives me such good vibes. I think good old Walt was inspired.

We went to my favorite restaurant which is located inside of "Pirates of the Carribbean." Its super pricey (but not if you split a plate), but soooo amazing. I always get the Monte Cristo sandwich.

A gorgeous, windy day in Newport. Shaye lurves to boogie board. He could do it all day. I, in the meantime, lie on the beach and solve the world's problems.

Thank goodness for vacations!

Big Love Controversy

I remember a few years back hearing about the HBO series "Big Love," a story about an FLDS family who practices polygamy and lives in Utah. I was understandably upset. Though there are a small amount of people who practice polygamy like the characters do in the show, it is so misleading about what life in Utah is really like. While I think many informed people would know that we Mormons abolished polygamy in the 1800s, many ignorant people might be further confused by the series.



Today when I heard that "Big Love" is showing detailed temple ceremonies in its next episode, my heart dropped. How could hollywood trivialize something so sacred? I was really upset by it, but then I read the official statement from the church, which you can find here, http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/commentary/the-publicity-dilemma
It amazes me how calm the church is about this intrusion on sacredness. The church has said that they do not support any boycotting of the program and know that the Lord's work will go forth regardless of improper media coverage. I love that our leaders do not fear man and know that the truth defends itself. In this crazy world it is such a comforting feeling.

Mimi Makes Me Smile

A few days before Christmas we got Mimi, a little Yorkshire Terrier. Though I knew she'd be fun when we got her, I've loved her even more than I thought I would. Strangely, I find myself to be one of those tacky dog people. I don't want to go anywhere without her. Shaye jokes with me because I'm worried about leaving her with my parents for a few days during Spring Break when we are going out of town. She's not nearly as fun as a baby would be, but she's really sweet and pretty darn cute too. Here are some pictures of little Mimi.

Here she is with her pretty bow...she pulls them out within minutes. :)

Haha, she loves to be held like a baby. Shaye and I joke about putting a bonnet on her and bringing her to church. (She is a Mormon after all!) :D

Tacky dog people or not, we love our little dog! :)