• Home
  • About
  • We Believe
Twitter Bloglovin Pinterest Instagram Facebook

From Our Front Porch Looking In

Where is the summer going? Really, if we're being completely honest, I have no idea where 2013 is going. I mean, wasn't it Easter like, yesterday? 

Anyway...

Last week we soaked up some family time by doing some summer things. Wow, could I be any more vague? (if you read that as chandler, props to you. we are now best friends for life.)

The Harrisons stopped by for a slumber party before putting in some time at the cannery (duty calls, mormons). We celebrated their arrival with some backyard barbecuing and fireworks, naturally. 

^^of course Abby worked as the ever busy phone thief^^


^^Lady has recently mastered (using the word 'mastered' incredibly loosely) sidewalk chalk. ^^

Annnnddd...all in the same day, Grandma Patty, Papa John, and Aunt Hailey stopped by too! Abby woke up from her nap and happily opened her arms to Papa John, until Grandma started reading books to her. 
They were on their way to take Hailey to fulfill her greatest fantasy: see One Direction live!
(I think I'm seeing a  theme in our visitors. Our location serves as the perfect pit stop. Hey, we'll take it) 

We met up with our favorite guy after he was done with work in Salt Lake and went to dinner before we went our different directions (...whyyy do i only have one picture?!). 
Did I ever mention how much I adore our family?

And really, it's that time of year. That Famous Preston Night Rodeo, ya'll. 

(though our festivities didn't include the actual rodeo)

We did make a day trip of it and attended the parade and the carnival on Saturday. Lady's most prized possession from the parade: her CrossFit flier. Really, she didn't let it go until I pried it out of her sleeping hands when we got home.

The classy parade. We were not disappointed. Between the Star Wars clan and the endless hoards of royalties riding horseback - it was a success. 


^^I think D. realized too late that he is too old to enjoy rides that go round and round...really, really fast.^^


^^Lady rode her first ride! (thanks to sydney for accompanying her.)^^


^^Ahh...family pictures with a toddler. Always such a treat.^^

I feel like I need to glue my eyelids to by brows. I mean, I'm pretty sure I'll blink and it'll be Christmas.
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
1 comments



To My Favorite Husband,

Today marks our two year anniversary! In some ways, it feel like two years has gone way too fast. But, mostly, it feels like I've been Mrs. Ackerman for a lifetime. Not in a bad, this-is-totally-dragging-on way... but in a good, it-feels-like-we-were-made-to-be-together sort of way.

Sometimes it's hard, this marriage thing. Sometimes we fight and sometimes we annoy the crap out of one another. Sure, sometimes (most times), our date night include fast food and a Redbox movie. Sometimes, when we do try to plan a night out, we argue about where to go until we don't go anywhere.

But, I really, really love it. It's not always sunshine and roses; I don't know about you, but I'm kind of grateful it isn't. I think working through the imperfections has made me love you even more. And, really, you're even more perfect for me than I ever could have dreamed for myself.

Over the last two years I've learned that it really is about the little things. My very favorite moments are those we spend chatting about seemingly trivial things during a long car ride; or running errands together (and maybe snatching up a few items that aren't totally necessary); or cooking together. Because, you really, truly are my best friend, and the little things become fun and even memorable with you.

Dust, you've really made my life better. You've made me happier. And, really, truly, I absolutely adore you.

We still have so much to learn; at least we get to do it together. I can't wait to see what's next.

xox,

Lyss
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments

I'm sitting here on my couch, in the dark, in my lounge clothes (read: over sized t shirt and baggy shorts), eating an entire 12 oz. carton of raspberries. And I'm nearly weepy.

The other day I told D. that one of my biggest goals in life is to be able to buy produce out of season and not be worried about the cost. For example, "I want to buy raspberries (probably my all time favorite fruit, and the only one that can cure my *constant* sugar craving) all year round, dangit!" And now I'm sitting here, binge eating raspberries and savoring every bite. 

I'm weepy because I don't want that to change. I want to always find the simple things in life, like raspberries, a delicacy. 

Where has time gone? I am finding it true that the days drag on, as a mother, but the years seem to fly by. Am I finding everyday with my baby (who, is not so baby-like anymore--probably the real reason behind this blurb) an absolute delicacy and not just taking each day for granted? Because, sometimes, it's hard. And sometimes I find myself yearning for bedtime. But, all of a sudden she's a nearly-15-month-old who is picking her nose, and folding her arms for prayers, and responding with a resounding "Ya!" every time she is asked a question. 

I find myself yearning to savor every.last.second. with this little lady, but at the same time sending myself into a whirlwind of stress (brought on my the inevitable mother's guilt) trying to make certain I do. 

It's a learning process, for sure. 

And that, folks, is why I'm weepy. 

It's OK. Tell me I'm crazy.  
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments

Some of our favorite people in the world (yes - you - westerberg clan) planned a family gathering at (what i would describe as) an adult slip 'n' slide. Being the Harrison (slash ackerman) family we are, we labeled ourselves 'family' and crashed their party. But, instead, we apparently chased them away. 

But, we still slipped and slid. 

(please excuse the blurry pictures)





Lady much preferred cuddling with Grandpa and Grandma and splashing in the muddy water to the actual slide. But, she endured a trip on D's lap. 

Four pizzas, a few injuries, and a whole bunch of tired people later - we called it a night. 

Next, I'm going to arrange a day playing in the sprinklers. Because, really, I'm pretty sure we enjoy these kind of activities just as much (if not more) as adults. 
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments
Who's dying to hear about our weekend?! 

I knew it... Wait no longer. Our incredibly exciting recap coming right up (sarcasm!). 


Guys, it's such a hot summer. I'm determined to not not complain (too much, anyway) because I despise the cold so, so, so much more than the heat. But, man, it's hot. Luckily we have an amazing local aquatic center that Lady adores. Saturday morning we made our weekly grocery run, packed a lunch, and promptly occupied the pool. We have a little fish on our hands. 

After Girlfriend's nap we did a little shopping, grabbed some food, and watched some Raptor's baseball (thanks, pass of all passes!). Abby refused to enjoy an entire game, so we left during the fourth inning. 


We figure, if it's going to be incredibly hot, might as well celebrate it with all things summer. Right?

(apparently I forget that we do own another camera besides the one attached to my phone...excuse the sucky quality.)
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
1 comments
This month D. and I celebrate our second anniversary. Crazy, right? So, I've been thinking a lot about all the things that aligned in each of our lives three years ago that made it so our paths crossed at the perfect time. Thank goodness things didn't turn out like either of us planned.

With that, here are some of my thoughts I'd like to share with my 23 year old husband, just a few months before we met.


Dear Dustin, 

Would it totally freak you out if I introduced myself as your wife? I bet that sounds weird to you right now, seeing that you don't even know who I am. Give it a few months, I'll humiliate myself in front of you countless times and you'll still choose to be stuck with me for always. Anyway, here I am now, three years later, one baby, three apartment moves, two states, and about to celebrate our second anniversary. Scared yet? 

So, three years ago I wrote this to you. Little did I know I'd be meeting you two months later. So, in honor of those times I wanted to give some advice to my current husband, but in the past. (following?)

I've been waiting my whole life to meet you. Sure, I had some other plans in mind, and sure you were not in them, but as soon as I got to know you - all of my plans changed course, they made much more sense, and I couldn't imagine my life without you. 

Right now I think you are in the midst of pursuing another girl. Obviously that doesn't work out (sorry, but not sorry). But, I am glad you've been dating. It's good for you, and it's good for me. I think you know what you are looking for. So, have fun, because pretty soon you'll end up in my apartment and I'll be questioning your lice history, forcing you to wear a magnetic earring and call yourself 'Howie Mandel',  and will be accompanying you, your dad, and Mr. Sant to Chase's football game. Brace yourself... (confused yet?). 

For what it's worth, I'm so, so glad you transferred back to BYU-I. It's probably weird to you right now. I mean, why do you feel you need to transfer back when you've left there once before? It really is the perfect timing, though you won't understand for a few months. Looking back, it's so weird how our time tables match up despite the plans we each had for ourselves. 

Heads up, when we start dating I'm kind of a paranoid. Don't ditch out. I really do love you, I just don't know how to not be a total and complete nervous wreck. And, honestly, I've been writing a missionary for 20 months. So, I'm kind of a mess. But, I promise I adore every second with you. And, you're the perfect match for me. And, my family will whisk me halfway around the world on a trip for three weeks and I'll come back your own personal parasite, never willing to leave you again.

Oh, and my family... they know we are going to get married the second I tell them you're coming home to visit over Thanksgiving. They love you. They think you're perfect for me. But, really, try not to laugh so hard when my dad nails me in the head with a dodge ball (though my family loves you even more for it).

I know you aren't super excited to move to Campus View again. And, to be honest, a couple of your roommates are...funny? But, it lands you smack dab in my ward, in my apartment in a few months. So, be patient. It'll work out.

A few things, real quick: 1) Don't get mad when I make fun of your D.I. suit jacket; it really is ugly, and I didn't know you were partially serious when you ask me if it looks OK. 2) The first meal you ever make for me is a grilled tuna sandwich with pickles and ranch (we both like ranch with our tuna! made for each other). 3) Don't let me win in air hockey! It still makes me mad to this day. I'll spend the rest of my life trying to prove to you that I really can win without you going easy on me.

Isn't it crazy how everything will work out? All these things that seem to be obstacles or nuisances end up leading us to each other? Weird, and amazing all at once. And all the hard times are worth it. It's hard to hear now, but really, they are. Dust, seriously, you are way better than I deserve. So, thanks (in advance) for being with me. I absolutely adore you.

I'll be seeing you soon! (don't be too frightened. i am overbearing. you get used to it...it think...)  

xox, Lyss

PS: If I'm ever mad, a McDonald's vanilla ice cream cone will cure anything. You'll learn soon enough, I'm sure...but sooner is probably better than later. Might as well give you a running head start. 
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments
^^a picnic at the pool with my favorite munchkin^^

Today Lady and I had a little one-on-one time at the pool. I mean, we have one-on-one time nearly everyday, but every once in awhile I like to take her to do something besides running errands and reading books. Girlfriend has zero fear of water (very much opposite of this mama) and adores swimming. So, naturally we had a blast. Little Miss even made a friend at the pool, a little girl about her age (though quite a bit smaller...) in a matching suit. Adorable. Though it turned out to be not so adorable to the other mom when Abby nearly drown her daughter. Free swimming lessons, anyone? Abby will teach you.

We had a much needed weekend doing absolutely nothing. We gutted a couple of closets, stayed in our pajamas until three in the afternoon, then took a $5 pizza to the park for a picnic (which we enjoyed until some birds trying to eat abby's leftovers sent me sprinting the the car. no, really, sprinting. i hate birds.).

Oh, if you're in need of a good chuckle today, check out Morgan's blog. She is currently documenting her European travels. I mean, check out this excerpt: "Why does America not have the food thing down yet?  Food in Europe is fabulous.  It started raining a tad bit so we headed back to our convent to chill with the nuns."

Now, Lady is napping, D. is grilling for dinner (though he doesn't know it yet...surprise?), and I am ready and willing to disregard the mess in my house and snuggle up with my current re-read (read it. every time i do i sigh contently and resist the urge to give the book a good bear-hug and never let go. it's absolutely perfect.). 

Over and out.  
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
1 comments

The family came down to our neck of the woods this weekend to play (again, we sure missed sam and mike and pray for a speedy quick recover for sam!). Grandma Patty was kind enough to watch Lady (and Javid) while D. and I went to a movie with the rest of the family (despicable me 2, adorable!). It was way past Abby's bedtime, and she was quite the stinker (i'm sure, though grandma won't admit it...) but we had a blast. The next day we shopped and then headed to the Bee's baseball game. 

This was my first baseball game, and after waiting out a rain delay (for 2+ hours) I was on the verge of leaving before the game even started. But, when it did start I enjoyed myself (even though it was nearly midnight when the game ended; well past Lady's 7:30 bedtime). The next game we go to I will be purchasing cotton candy (though i may have to donate a kidney beforehand to afford it) and I will be checking the weather before going. But, there will be another game. for sure. 

^^feeling like an all-american family soaking wet and ready to watch a baseball game^^


^^girlfriend's only true upset - when the phone got taken away from her. this girl and her love for electronics.^^


^^leave it to Miss Independent to look the other way^^

Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments

We spent the Fourth of July in Grace this year, being about as American as one can. What is more American than celebrating in a small farming community surrounded by those you love most? We were pelted with salt water taffy being thrown from moving vehicles, the boys played in the three-on-three basketball tournament, we ate too much cheesecake, and chatted with our family. (though we sure missed sam and mike!)



^^candy thrown right into her lap. ever wonder what pure joy looks like? wonder no longer.^^

^^how adorable is hailey?! i mean, really. it's unfair.^^



Man, oh, man are we grateful to live in a country which allows us our freedoms and for those who have sacrificed, and currently sacrifice, so much so we can enjoy them everyday. 

"And this be our motto: 'In God is our trust.'
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!"
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments
^^check out that belly^^

This weekend the Fulford's made a pit stop in P-town on their way to vacation in California. We soak in as much of these guys as we can so, we rushed to the hometown after D. got off work on Friday to see them for a few hours before they hit the road early Saturday morning. And to celebrate Aunt Morgan's birthday! We sure love her!

We did the usual activities: ate too much, gossiped talked, and Morgan painted countless nails.



^^As we sat around and chatted, the two couples did their thing ^^
(I'm pretty sure dustin and kendon were watching michigan highlights from last year, seeing that trey burke will be joining the jazz! now we need season tickets...)


^^And Morgan attempted to paint nails with this little obstacle^^


^^Have I ever mentioned how much I adore P-town?^^


After a loooong night (guys, lady doesn't sleep, at all, anywhere besides her own bed. every time we sleep elsewhere it makes me question my hard work sleep training; but, then we come home and the schedule rocks my socks off) and a morning washing our car (thanks to the teens who thought it was funny to egg our new vehicle...) we decided the best option was to head to the lake. 

And we did. And it was the best. 




Turns out Lady loves any form of water; so much it scares the living daylights out of her mother. 

We had a blast, to say the least. Now, if only we could convince Girlfriend that it's not that cool to stay up all night and D. that we need a boat. 
Share
Tweet
Pin
Share
No comments
Newer Posts
Older Posts

About Me

Hi! I'm Alyssa, the voice of this blog. I'm a passionate homebody, lover of Diet Coke, good books, and laughing until I cry.

You Can Find Me Here, Too!

  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Facebook

Categories

  • Abby
  • Dustin
  • Evalyn Rose
  • Harrison Family
  • holidays
  • in-laws
  • marriage
  • mommy me
  • purge

Blog Archive

  • ►  2017 (1)
    • ►  April (1)
  • ►  2016 (35)
    • ►  October (1)
    • ►  August (1)
    • ►  July (9)
    • ►  June (5)
    • ►  May (2)
    • ►  April (2)
    • ►  January (15)
  • ►  2015 (47)
    • ►  November (1)
    • ►  October (6)
    • ►  September (4)
    • ►  August (5)
    • ►  June (9)
    • ►  April (6)
    • ►  March (2)
    • ►  February (8)
    • ►  January (6)
  • ►  2014 (59)
    • ►  December (4)
    • ►  November (1)
    • ►  October (5)
    • ►  September (7)
    • ►  August (1)
    • ►  July (5)
    • ►  June (3)
    • ►  May (7)
    • ►  April (5)
    • ►  March (4)
    • ►  February (6)
    • ►  January (11)
  • ▼  2013 (111)
    • ►  December (8)
    • ►  November (6)
    • ►  October (8)
    • ►  September (6)
    • ►  August (8)
    • ▼  July (10)
      • Snippets
      • To My Husband (on our two year anniversary)
      • On Delicacies
      • That One Time We Played on a Really Big Slip 'N' S...
      • Weekend Recap
      • To My Husband (Before I Knew You)
      • Checking In
      • Take Us Out to the Ballgame!
      • Happy Birthday, America!
      • Weekend Recap
    • ►  June (8)
    • ►  May (13)
    • ►  April (12)
    • ►  March (7)
    • ►  February (11)
    • ►  January (14)
  • ►  2012 (91)
    • ►  December (15)
    • ►  November (9)
    • ►  October (5)
    • ►  September (5)
    • ►  August (10)
    • ►  July (10)
    • ►  June (22)
    • ►  May (4)
    • ►  April (1)
    • ►  March (6)
    • ►  February (2)
    • ►  January (2)
  • ►  2011 (81)
    • ►  December (1)
    • ►  November (4)
    • ►  October (2)
    • ►  September (8)
    • ►  August (10)
    • ►  July (8)
    • ►  June (5)
    • ►  May (6)
    • ►  April (7)
    • ►  March (10)
    • ►  February (11)
    • ►  January (9)
  • ►  2010 (89)
    • ►  December (3)
    • ►  November (5)
    • ►  October (4)
    • ►  September (1)
    • ►  August (6)
    • ►  July (7)
    • ►  June (12)
    • ►  May (9)
    • ►  April (12)
    • ►  March (11)
    • ►  February (10)
    • ►  January (9)
  • ►  2009 (16)
    • ►  December (2)
    • ►  November (2)
    • ►  October (1)
    • ►  September (2)
    • ►  August (1)
    • ►  July (3)
    • ►  June (2)
    • ►  May (3)

Created with by ThemeXpose | Distributed By Gooyaabi Templates