Autumn Is My Second Spring

For those that aren't aware, I LOVE FALL! It is by far my most favorite season - until spring rolls around that is. It's so refreshing to have the weather cool off, see the leaves change, pull out my comfy sweaters, boots, and leggings, and burn my fall-scented candles. (Anyone who's looking for a good fall candle to burn, go to Bath & Body Works and buy their Leaves candle. It will be the best decision of your life.)

Tyler and I have already had a busy fall. It doesn't seem like anything has slowed down since summer ended. Tyler is trying to keep up with school while working and still having fun. He is on a soccer intramural team with my little brother, Trevor, and brother-in-law, Jonathan. Trevor has just started his freshman year down here at BYU. They had their first game on Friday and tied 2-2. Tyler and Trevor scored the goals! Both Tyler's parents and mine have come to stay with us and it has been a blast! We get to enjoy one more trip from my parents in a few weeks just in time for my birthday and conference!

Tyler and I attended our first BYU game of the season - Virginia v. BYU. I would have taken a picture, but I was a hot mess - and not in a good way. haha I ended up leaving at half time because it was so blasted hot. I got fried! I love football, but not that much. I'd much rather be at home in my comfies, stuffing my face with food while I cheer on my Cougs. Tyler and I hang a giant BYU flag from our balcony every game day and I'm convinced it's the reason for their undefeated winning streak so far. Tyler disagrees. If anything, it helps our neighbors know who we are and remember us. :)

I've already gotten all our fall decorations up. Tyler helped me do it on Labor day. I didn't waste any time once the month of August was over. Tyler helped me with one of my projects by staining a wooden crate for me while I painted some pumpkins. I'm quite proud of my little creation and can't wait till Christmas rolls around to do something else!

The view from our balcony - it was such a pretty sunset. We've enjoyed watching as the colors pop up all over the mountains. 

Our fireplace/mantel I've decorated for fall! 

The project Tyler and I worked on 

Aren't the pumpkins I painted so cute?! :) Yay for crafts!

Goodbye, Summer. :(

Summer is officially over! And that means so is the daily use of my razor! (Don't worry, I never shaved daily anyway ;D) Tyler's shaking his head as I write this. haha This post is purely about me playing catch-up with the rest of mine and Tyler's summer. Where did it go?!?

I had a family reunion in July and it happened to be over the fourth - what an exciting and meaningful holiday! We were up camping in the woods and besides the shortage of water, we had a great time. We even got to watch a firework show! We ended the reunion/night by singing tons of patriotic songs and learning about my ancestors who fought for our freedom in several past wars. It was a very touching night and reminded me of how grateful I am to live in this free country where I can worship how, where, and what I may. See patriotic nails below :) - Yeah, I'm cool.

In August, we had Tyler's family reunion. This was just up in Idaho, where we're both from. It was so nice to go back and visit all our family - lucky for me a trip to see Tyler's family usually includes a trip to see mine since they live 15 minutes apart. :) We spent most days relaxing, but one day we went out to a place called the Christensen's Pond - us rednecks sure now how to glam up an irrigation pond. :) Complete with high dive, water slide, and zip line. Some people from Fruitland decided to build they're very own water park in their backyard and they are so kind to let anyone use it for free. You just have to call and reserve it. I have spent countless days at this pond from mutual activities to birthday parties. Such a fun place. We also got to attend Tyler's brother's (Joshua) Eagle Court of Honor. That was really neat to see him go join the "Eagle's Nest" with his two twin brothers (Brandon and Tyler).

Christensen's Pond

Tyler on the zip line 

Full view of their pond - cool huh? :) 

King of the Dock - it didn't take long for the rest of the boys to join them. For those that don't know, Tyler has 6 brothers... you can imagine that someone probably got hurt. 

Tyler jumping off the high dive 

Tyler and Brandon think they're soooo cool. haha Can you guess which one is Tyler? 

Joshua getting his Eagle Award

Joshua joining his brothers and looking just as "cool" haha

I made this picture extra large because I wanted you all to see just how beautiful Idaho is. My home away from home. :)

I also got to attend two weddings in August for two of my very close friends (who happen to be triplets!). One was up in Boise during Tyler's reunion so I got to go to that and the other was in Vegas. I hate Las Vegas. Such a dirty place. But the Las Vegas Temple is such a gorgeous temple! Definitely a safe haven in that town. I am so grateful for the beauty of life that surrounds me from nature to weddings! 

Tyler is now back in school, there are football games happening right and left, and the leaves are changing colors which can only mean one thing.... FALL!!!! See next post :)

Love, 

Nat