Ashley

August & September 2011

2011-10-05T21:35:00.000-04:00

Some of my fave people had a layover at Dulles in August.

I was able to go get them and go to lunch.

So so happy to see Kesli, Jenny, and Ryli.

It was totally worth the drive out to the airport.

cute Ryli at lunch

me, Ryli, Kes, and Jenny

In September Ryan and I were able to go to Florida with his padre.

A quick 4 day vacay was awesome.

Lots and lots of beach time.

This crazy fam was in the water behind me and it was hilarious.
They were posing in the sand and frolicking in the water.
We couldn't get a pic just right but you can see them under my arm in the water.

We drove to West Palm Beach one night. It was so fun!

I'm so sad that summer is gone but fall is here!

Buh bye tan skin. Bring on the boots and sweaters!

my new fave blog...

2011-09-22T09:30:00.000-04:00

so. I don't know about you, but I'm a sucker for celebrity gossip.

Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Giuliana and Bill happen to be some of my fave guilty pleasures. Shhh!

Anyway, I recently was introduced to this bloggie. It is seriously hilarious and I cannot stop reading it!

Go there now... you won't regret it.

and... while we are on the topic of celebrities. Have you ever seen this video of Cruz Beckham breakdancing? It is probably the cutest thing I have ever seen!

labor day.

2011-09-08T13:32:00.000-04:00

the beach was wonderful.

Ry is in love with that ocean. He is like a little kid.

Even when there was a warning about jellyfish I could not keep him out of there.

Love it. :)

How was your long weekend?

Loves!

Earthquake in Mineral, VA

2011-08-23T15:31:00.001-04:00

Had a little scare about an hour ago at work.

I was sitting in my office talking on the phone to a coworker that works remotely from Oregon and my whole office started to shake. I went into panic/defense mode and said, "Monica, I have to go my office is shaking!" haha. Kinda funny now, but at the moment I was scared.

My first response was to go stand in the doorway, but everyone in my office was evacuating. I guess that's the best thing to do in a 12-story building?? I need to brush up on my emergency skills. I've never been near a decent sized earthquake before. This shocker was a 5.9 magnitude and it was a pretty strong shake in my office.

The epicenter of the quake was in Mineral, VA, a town that is about 50 miles northwest of Richmond, VA and 90 miles from DC. The aftershock was felt across the NE region - in DC, NYC, Boston, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, and the Carolinas.

So far, it looks like the damage is minimal and I don't think anyone was hurt. Thank heavens.

Harpers Ferry

2011-08-20T21:29:00.001-04:00

Harper's Ferry, WV

It's only an hour and a half away and the best part - they have mountains! Yay!
Not mountains like Utah, but hey, I'll take what I can get.

Today.We.Are.Hikers.

my DC faves.

2011-08-18T23:00:00.000-04:00

As an intern, I showed up at the Barlow Center at around midnight the night that I flew in from Salt Lake on January 2, 2009. I was seriously scared and unsure of what was ahead of me. I think that I underestimated my ability to go out in the big city and actually work with the powerful congressmen. I distinctly remember talking to my intern coordinator when I was still in Utah and my voice making a shaking noise. {I was definitely unsure of what I was doing at the time.} He {the intern coordinator} just stopped mid-conversation and told me, "It's all going to work out. Don't be nervous." This didn't stop me from being nervous, but looking back on my internship experience makes me laugh now. It was one of the most fun, educating, exciting experiences I have ever had. I fell in love with the city some time during those four months. I really did. Sometimes I forget how much I love it, because I miss my beautiful Utah, my family and my friends there. I forget how lucky I am to be where I am.

I was thinkin that I would share a few of my DC faves. Kinda like Oprah's favorite things. {my friend Lauren does a version of this and I just love it!} so this is Ash's Fave DC related things. ha. lame title. dun da da da!

11. Georgetown

Seriously - Best place ever.
I used to live within walking distance of this place. Gorgeous. Seriously. One day I decided to go walk around up there by myself. I could not have picked a more beautiful day and I'll never forget it. If you are just swimmin in the millions - buy a house in this area. I would lovvve to housesit for you :)

10. The Museums

I seriously have not taken advantage of the proximity of these awesome places in the past two years. When I was interning this was what we did on the weekends. I love the museums, though. Most of them are free and it's just wonderful. The Crime and Punishment {my fave} of course, is not free. But it's loads of fun so a little splurge never hurt anyone, right?

9. The Zoo

The Zoo is free here. 'nuff said.

8. Celebs

Now, I'm not going to say that everyone always meets celebrities while in DC, but I ran into my fair share as an intern. Unfortunately, that luck has not followed me the whole time I have been here. Although, I did hear that Leo DiCaprio was filming a movie out here a few months back. Did you know he is dating Blake Lively? Old news, I know.

Sheryl Crow at a Press Conference

Will.I.Am at the same press conference.

Good Charlotte - in the cafeteria. Yep, totally took a phone pic with them.

7. Cherry Blossom Festival

The Spring is beautiful here. It's one of my favorite times and there are so many things to do.

6. National Monuments & the Capitol

5. The Metro

We have a love/hate relationship. I finally got a car out here a few months ago. I have ridden this baby a few times since then. I can't say I miss it too much, but it is sooo convenient when you live in the city.

4. The Concerts

Sadly, I've only been to two since living here. AND I missed Britney both times. I don't wanna talk about it. But I really do have the sweetest boyfriend. When I said that I wanted to go to Taylor Swift - he bought me tickets and went with me. When I said I wanted to go see Backstreet Boys he was a little less enthused (although, he still came cuz he is sweet like that).

pathetic phone pic from NKOTBSB concert.

3. The Baseball games

We love it!

2. My peeps

The girls

I seriously could not live without these two. They are both so fun, amazing, smart, and great to be around. They are both great spiritual examples, as well. Don't think I would have made it through the past year without them. Love them.

Ry guy

He is pretty great if you haven't noticed. And the sweetest, most caring person around. He has definitely been there for me through and through out here. love him.

1. The Temple

My old co-worker Donna once told me that her granddaughters always said they wanted to go to see the Disney castle. Made me happy. Love it there.

LP

2011-08-15T22:46:00.000-04:00

just got back from Lake Powell with my fam.

love.love.love.

Best summer vacay. miss it already.

Loves.

.2 years.

2011-08-02T22:31:00.000-04:00

Yep, I've been in DC for 2 years now! Weird.

and I've been with this guy for 2 years. Wonderful.

T Swift Concert - June 2010

2010 - on our way to a Red Sox game

July 2010

Harry Potter {he's gonna kill me for posting this}

February 2011

January 2011

New Years Eve 2010

River Rafting - September 2010

Snowpocolypse 2010

NYC - Feb 2010

SLC - April 2010

Baltimore - Spring 2010

wish I could get these to post in order. this will just have to do!

Love you Ry guy.

waterfall braid

2011-07-31T11:47:00.000-04:00

this is my attempt...

Not perfect, but improvement from the first time that I tried it.
I found a blog that has so many cute hair ideas. I'm going to have to try all of them :)

xoxo

Hope you are having a wonderful Sunday!

my day

2011-07-23T00:37:00.003-04:00

my birthday, of course...

Before the humidity hits my hair ... I had to prove that I actually did it!

Ashley (my coworker) got cupcakes with me.

Ry and I getting ready to go to din din

Ry hates car pics. :)

This was waiting for me at our table when we got to the Melting Pot

yummm...

happy birthday!

2011-07-21T10:55:00.002-04:00

to me :)

via

July is my fave month of the year. Not only is it the month I was born, but the 4th is my fave holiday and honestly, who doesn't love the summer time? 23 has been so good to me. I have now had two full time jobs since I graduated from the Y. I've learned a lot, cried a lot, laughed a lot, struggled a lot and have grown a lot. I have been thinking a lot about all the things that I've done in the past 24 years. It's crazy how things can change in the blink of an eye. I swear I am still that 12 year old girl that is just going to jr. high and still is trying to figure out if boys have cooties. well for those of you who know me you know that didn't last too long. I think I am mostly wondering where the time has really gone. I live 2,000 miles away from my family and I have a J-O-B. a real one. and i'm working on my bday, boo! weird. I've changed A LOT, especially over the past few years. I'm grateful for that. It's all a part of growing up, but I'm happy that I'm not the same person I was 5 years ago. Hopefully that means I've learned something :) I feel so blessed. I'm sure 24 is going to be awesomespice.

Loves

ice cream sundae, anyone?

2011-07-05T13:29:00.000-04:00

This made me happy today at work :) ...

this thing costs $250. yum.

sytycd fave - Top 16 & Top 20

2011-07-01T11:07:00.000-04:00

so... this show is def one of my faves to watch.

This is from this week (Top 16).
Melanie is so amazing. I think she'll win it all.

This is from last week (Top 20).

what were your favorites?

Loves

miss you slc

2011-06-28T11:56:00.000-04:00

I was perusing my usual fave bloggies and she is having a giveaway ...

don't worry. I'm not doing this post in order to win something it actually has a purpose...

I was led to this Etsy shop called CAPow.

This one struck me hard today.

Especially since I just have felt like I'm missing out on some things at home lately.

♥ Miss my fam

♥ miss my friends

♥ miss my cafe rio (that is close by)

♥ miss my puppy

♥ miss my bed at home (it's a lot bigger than my one here)

♥ miss the fun trips to The Pie in SLC

♥ miss Jazz games on the home court

♥ miss dry summer days

♥ miss the gorgeous mountains

ya, I miss it.

I've always been a little homesick lady, so this little heart map is perfect for me.

Loves

"white woman"

2011-06-24T13:29:00.001-04:00

little mexican man: "miss, miss, miss"

me: totally oblivious to the fact he is talking to me

little mm: {taps me} "you are a beautiful white woman"

me: "well, thanks?" {i was trying hard not to laugh that he had to put the word "white" in there}

little mm: "do you have a boyfriend?"

me: "I do."

little mm: "is he big?"

me: "wha??"

after he saw the look on my face he turned around and bolted out the door. awkward. yet comical.

action packed night!

2011-06-24T12:49:00.000-04:00

Last night I went to a play with Danielle.

in downtown DC {and} watched Pretty in Pink.

It was a gooood night.

The play is called "The Merchant of Venice"

by none other than William Shakespeare

The play was good. D and I went not really knowing what to expect, but liked it in the end.

{thank goodness I read the synopsis beforehand, I may have been lost without it}

If you come to DC {or already live here} go to a play. Just do it. You'll thank me.

oh, and I just love this movie. It reminds me of watching 80s movies with my parents,

which has always been one of my favorite things to do.

lucky ducks... they were teenagers through the 80s. in my dreams.

and will someone please explain to me why this...

turned into this?

I'm still trying to figure that one out.

Loves

i want it that way...

2011-06-06T14:29:00.002-04:00

So.

I'm pretty sure that my Friday night last weekend was better than yours.

Just don't fight me on this one.

I went to the NKOTBSB Concert. Yup.

I really just went for the Backstreet Boys and I prob could have done without the New Kids but it was definitely a good time.

And guess who was a good boyfriend and caved when I begged him to go with me?

Yep. You guessed it. That would be my boyfriend. :)

One sad short story though... My camera's battery was dead :( worst timing ever! so i have a billion crappy cell phone pics of our awesome concert experience and some videos too.. but i can't figure out how to get the vids to load so you'll just have to settle for the pics.

Another story: BSB was my FAV-OR-ITE when I was in sixth grade, my first concert,

and Nick Carter was probably my first love.

circa 1999

My friend Janelle and I were obsessed.

Funny story though -

J and I also had a crush on the same boy in sixth grade

his name was Lance.

One day, J asked me who I would marry if I could marry Lance or Nick Carter.

I was thinking psssshhhhh.... Nick of course! He is soooooooo hott. right?

Well, J came back with "I would marry Lance, because he could take me to the temple." ouch!

and let's just say at 11 years of age...

I was just thinking about that backstreet boy way too much.

I may or may not have recorded {on a VHS tape} their music video of "I want it that way"
and watched it
over and
over and
over again.

I could probably sit and tell you fifty other BSB stories but maybe another day.

Here are the pics from the concert:

From left to right:
Nick gettin down with his bad self, Brian is looking the other way,
Howie is pointing up to something, and the bald one is AJ.

This is Nick again.
I swear that I didn't just take pics of him but they are the only ones that really turned out.

Nick in the orange... I don't know who is standing next to him. Prob one of the NKOTB?

These pics really do make me so sad that I didn't have my good camera with me!! Boo.

Oh and just in case you were wondering about that music video was speaking about... here it is!

i heart reading.

2011-05-12T13:10:00.000-04:00

Hey there... it feels like it has been a while.

Probably because it has.

But in all honesty I haven't taken many pictures lately

because my life has been kinda ... you know. bla.

or it feels like i'm just in a routine and i'm going with it.

which works. but you know is still bla sometimes.

so when i'm feeling a little bla... i try to do things that i love, including, watching my fave shows, working out, hanging out with my friends, and reading. reading a lot. which i love. and i always have. when i was in fifth grade i would lock myself in my room and just read for hours on end. i had no desire to go play... i just wanted to finish that book! ha. {my mom says that she was a little worried about this when it was going on, which makes me laugh a little} anyway, this is what i've been reading lately...

{i'm years behind on books i've been meaning to read

so don't judge me for taking soo long!}

The Book Thief

This book is written from the point of view of Death in WWII Nazi Germany. It is sad, different, entertaining and thought provoking. It is the story of a young girl, who despite having a life that you wouldn't wish upon anyone, finds joy in the simple words in books that she reads.

loved this book and it's a quick read too!

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

I'm really not sure what to say about this book except that if you don't read it... you are missin out!

It's about a writer in London who receives letters from a stranger during the German occupation.

Apparently, I like reading about this time period? you think?

Written in letter format the entire way through, it is simply lovely how the characters come together.

I'm just starting The Hunger Games series. I'm only 100 pages in but I'm liking it. We'll see though!

Any books that you would recommend? I'm always up for a good read!

Loves!

mom's day

2011-05-10T14:10:00.001-04:00

When I was a little girl, my summers were filled with the waterpark and doing everything outside. My mom always took us kids to Seven Peaks and we would hang out there almost every single day. Seven Peaks was the place to go in the summer. We used to drive to Seven Peaks in the morning so that we could get there right before they opened the doors, because naturally we had to get the best spot possible for our set up. I don't know why, but listening to Wilson Phillips and singing at the top of our lungs in our little white Mazda is one memory that I cannot shake and I'm pretty sure it's because we listened to it all the time... and had dance parties at my house. Ya, my mom is cool like that. Love my mom! :)

Happy {late} Mother's Day to you all! I hope Sunday was a fab for all of you mothers out there.

I'm pretty sure I have the greatest mom in the world for so many reasons, including exposing me to Wilson Phillips ;) She is my best friend and I miss her every day. I wish I could have spent Sunday with you, mom! And today and mostly every day. But don't you worry, I'm trying to plan a vacay home soon! Love you mucho!

my new baby.

2011-05-04T10:12:00.000-04:00

I am no longer a metro-ridin girl.

I'll be drivin this if you need me!

Cafe Rio.

2011-05-02T16:29:00.002-04:00

This weekend Ryan put up with my insane obsession with Cafe Rio and drove me about an hour to Olney, MD to experience this:

Olney, MD - 2011

I'm pretty sure Ryan said about a million times, "Why the HECK would they build one in Olney, MD? They would make so much more money in DC or Alexandria." And he told the manager when we got inside. The manager let us know that 13 restaurants will be opening in the next 3 years in the DC, MD, VA area. Pretty sweet huh?

That pork salad & diet coke never tasted so good.

Another tid bit from the weekend:

My mom sent me this text last night of my puppy:

zing stuck in the hamper

I seriously don't think he could be any cuter. Miss him.

and then she sent me this:

Bay and Andrea

I'm not even sure what year this was taken but Bay has been my little bff since I was 12 and sometimes I forget how teeny she used to be. I just love this photo.

It is THE day... here is THE dress

2011-04-29T12:52:00.001-04:00

So... I'm gonna admit ... I did buy into the Royal Wedding Hubbub.

I read a lot of blogs and stalked a lot of sites. But I'm not one of those early morning people so I DID NOT stay up to watch it. Dang! Now I feel a little left out since it's ALL OVER the place.

I think my fave thing I've seen so far is this kiss:

So sweet... probably a bit loud though...

:)

So what do you think of her dress? Were you impressed or a little disappointed? I like but not LOVE. I actually LOVED Pippa's dress.

simply stunning. via HuffPost

Here is a better view

images via

Happy Easter!!

2011-04-24T22:15:00.000-04:00

Today was a good day. Time to reflect on the Savior and his life. I'm so grateful for Jesus Christ and this gospel in my life. I cannot go through a day without feeling overwhelmed with gratitude for everything he chose to do for you and me.

I hope you all had a great Easter Sunday!

aubee's 24!

2011-04-24T21:59:00.001-04:00

Cubs V. Dodgers Game - Right after graduating HS in 2005

Happy Birthday to the best friend a girl could ask for!

Love you like a sister.

I'm still working on getting married and building that house that connects underground to yours ;)

mom & bay's bdays

2011-04-24T21:51:00.001-04:00

I went to UT. ... and did lots of shopping, lots of eating and lots of chatting with friends and fam. It was my mom's bday on the 10th and bay's is on the 13th so it was one big party the entire time! Loved it! :)

Happy Birthday Mom & Bay! Love you!!

something royal...

2011-04-21T14:36:00.002-04:00

In honor of all the wedding craziness...

There's still a chance!

for all things will and kate ... click here. or here.

2011-04-21T14:28:00.000-04:00

“You’re always with yourself, so you might as well enjoy the company.”

- Diane Von Furstenberg

lesley evers giveaway

2011-04-20T17:04:00.000-04:00

Ok... so I'm "one of those" that stalks a whole lot of fashion blogs. There is this adorbs giveaway on sfgirlbythebay and I pretty much WANT it badly. so badly.

Lesley Evers - mimi tunic

isn't it adorable? so cute.

so if you like what you see. you should enter too! (although I'll admit I'll be totally jeal if you get it instead of me) the end.

Oh also... sorry I'm a slacker. This weekend I'll play catch up. Pinky swear.

oh hey brit...

2011-04-06T15:13:00.000-04:00

So, Saturday night while the boys were at the Priesthood Session
My friend Thais and I hung out...

And went shopping. We went to Target - a classic fave. And I wanted to buy this:

Hi. I was on sale for $15.99 - oh but I'm sold out! Boo!

So ya it was all gone.

Instead, on the way out I spotted this beauty for only $9.99:

I totally bought it. It's fab. Isn't it funny the artists that you grow up with?

Oh and P.S. Brit is going to be in DC July 31st...anyone wanna come visit and go with me? I can hook you up with a free place to stay and you get to hang out with me of course! Think about it!

80s style

2011-04-05T16:57:00.001-04:00

This morning I listened to a bunch of 80s/early 90s music while I got ready.
I didn't feel so hot this morning so I went to work a little late today.
Two of my faves this morning: Jessie's Girl & Total Eclipse of the Heart

Belinda Carlisle, Debbie Gibson, and Tiffany - be my friend?

Summer 2007

I believe.

2011-04-04T10:18:00.001-04:00

Conference weekend is one of my favorite weekends.
Two full days of listening to our modern day prophet and apostles
Two full days of hearing things that are especially for our day
Two full days that are completely spiritually uplifting
Two full days that I know I am where I'm supposed to be at that time: watching and listening intently
Two full days that I wish came more often than every six months
But it's okay, because now we have six months to study and implement these teachings in our lives.
I'm so grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Truly blessed.

One of my fave quotes:
‎'If you have been offended, forget, forgive and leave it alone.'
-Boyd K. Packer

help, please!

2011-04-01T15:11:00.000-04:00

So... I get to go to Utah next week! I'm pretty stoked.

And my hair is in need of a new look.
I don't want to chop it. My usual solution. But I need new color or something!

I've been going gradually darker for the past two hair apts. My fave hair stylist Carrie is so great with color. She's wonderful! And now I just need to decide if I want to continue with the dark or lighten it up a bit.

Here are some colors that I'm liking right now. I think Lauren Conrad's hair is my fave today, but tomorrow that could change. Plus, these pics all have different colors of hers... I can't decide which one I like the best.

Thoughts, feelings, suggestions?
I'm all ears.

so not funny...

2011-04-01T11:26:00.001-04:00

Is this an April Fool's joke or something?? Boo!!

Versace Slingbacks YOOX Collection

One day, when I'm rich bahahahah. I'm gonna buy these and it's not even going to phase me ;)

Right now, the $465 just pains me. That's more than half of my rent. I figure paying my bills is probably more important than these shoes...I have to keep telling myself that!

But until then, I'm the girl on the outside of the store window, going "I'm in LOVE with those!"

Yep, that's me.

yep!

2011-03-31T19:59:00.000-04:00

Little does Ryan know...

on nights that I don't hang out with him.

I do stuff like this.

Even when he talks to me on the phone.

okay I'm done.

oooh la la

2011-03-31T11:19:00.001-04:00

all shots via pearled on flickr

One day... I really am going back to this place.
and I really will take so many more pictures than last time and I took a LOT last time
and I might not get on a plane to come back to the US of A
because frankly. this place is perfect. in every way.
don't worry mom, I'm not announcing that I'm moving to Paris, only dreaming

a bit of a flashback

2011-03-30T21:39:00.001-04:00

sometimes I really miss these days.... and I always miss these girls.

2011-03-30T17:01:00.001-04:00

you gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. you are able to say to yourself, 'i have lived through this horror. i can take the next thing that comes along.' you must do the thing you think you cannot do. -eleanor roosevelt

any change, any loss, does not make us victims. others can shake you, surprise you, disappoint you, but they can't prevent you from acting, from taking the situation you're presented with and moving on. no matter where you are in life, no matter what your situation, you can always do something. you always have a choice and the choice can be power. -blaine lee

the only person standing in your way is you. -black swan

i'm really just a t-shirt & jeans girl

2011-03-29T13:34:00.002-04:00

I'm just gonna go on the record and say that before I moved to DC, I had never owned a suit before. What can I say, I'm a t-shirt and jeans type gal. BUT, working on Capitol Hill certainly opened my eyes to the serious LACK of cute dressy clothes, namely women's suits. Almost every place had very wo-MANly suits. if you know what i mean.

So, after a year and a half living in the nation's capitol, I have found a few places that actually DO produce cute, dressy suits for women. I know I just professed my love for J.Crew the other day, but seriously, they can do no wrong!

Presentation Jacket & Skirt from J.Crew

For example, this look - lovely. Love love love it. In fact, I think my tax return might help fund this one.

I've also found suits at Express and Ann Taylor. Although, I still am not a huge fan of suit shopping.

I could go for this...from Express

What do you think??

our weekend.

2011-03-27T11:09:00.001-04:00

This weekend, Ryan's friend Taylor got married. I have some pics of the bride and groom on another camera, but here are the two that are from my little Sony. Epic failure on my part. The reception was in this beautiful chapel in Arlington. It was so cute! Taylor's mom is a florist so the flowers were amazing!

Thais. Look at that massive strawberry! The food was great.

After the reception, we went bowling with our friends Thais & Dan. Always a good time!

muahhh!

Thais & Dan

Love her. She is fabulous!

my new fave color.

2011-03-25T15:05:00.001-04:00

I'm loving that there is actual color on the trees outside and spring actually seems to be here.
almost... we are supposed to get snow on Sunday. yikes.

I'm also loving this new coral, pinkish color on my nails.

What are your plans for the weekend? I have a wedding to go to tomorrow for Ryan's friend. C'est la vie!

I speak blonde.

2011-03-24T10:22:00.004-04:00

I can take a blonde joke or two...
Ry sent this to me this morning. I have such a sweet boyfriend ;)

A plane is on its way to Chicago when a Blonde in Economy Class gets up, and moves to the First Class section and sits down.

The Flight Attendant watches her do this, and asks to see her ticket.

She then tells the blonde that she paid for Economy Class, and that she will have to sit in the back.

The Blonde replies, "I'm blonde, I'm beautiful, I'm going to Chicago and I'm staying right here."

The Flight Attendant goes into the Cockpit and tells the Pilot and the Co-Pilot that there is a Blonde Bimbo sitting in First Class, that belongs in Economy, and won't move back to her seat.

The Co-Pilot goes back to the Blonde and tries to explain that because she only paid for Economy she will have to leave and return to her seat.

The Blonde replies, "I'm Blonde, I'm beautiful, I'm going to Chicago and I'm staying right here."

The Co-Pilot tells the Pilot that he probably should have the police waiting when they land to arrest this Blonde woman, who won't listen to reason.

The Pilot says, "You say she is blonde? I'll handle this, I'm married to a blonde. I speak blonde."

He goes back to the Blonde and whispers in her ear, and she says, "Oh, I'm sorry!" and gets up and goes back to her seat in economy.

The Flight Attendant and Co-Pilot are amazed and asked him what he said to make her move without any fuss.

"I told her, First Class isn't going to Chicago."

I also speak blonde... because I am one.
:)

Happy Thursday!

I'm officially a J.CrewAholic

2011-03-23T13:22:00.003-04:00

I can't help it if when I walk in that store, it just puts a permagrin on my face.
I can't help it that everything is overpriced
I can't help it that I'll still most likely purchase it anyway if I like it enough. Except when I really can't afford it, which means the rest of the day I'm thinking about said apparel.
I can't help it that I just feel more like myself when I am wearing their clothes.
I can't help it if my boyfriend detests walking inside this store.
I can't help it that I would rather go shopping with one of my girls in this store, but if Ry is the only option...he's doin' it anyway. willingly I might add.
I can't help it that the style is so classy, yet sassy
I can't help it.

I just can't!
This list also applies to Anthro--which is equally as lovely and pricey. Dang it!

I'm lusting after these beauties right now....

Indigo Pea Jacket

Jersey Lomellina ruffle tank

{sigh}

FHE

2011-03-22T15:41:00.000-04:00

So... for the past year, I've been the FHE coordinator for a group in my ward.

Last night we played this:

I know you are thinking... what? Saved By the Bell had a board game? Seriously?

Well, I'm here to tell you it exists.
The goal is to go on a date with both Zack and Slater to win.
Yep, pretty sweet.

Green Day

2011-03-17T09:58:00.000-04:00

Happy St. Patties Day!

Summer came early! -- well for a day

2011-03-15T14:45:00.000-04:00

so, if you are anything like me, in the winter your skin is pasty white and not always the most attractive sight.

I always feel better when I have a little tan goin' on. I've heard about a bunch of different self-tanners and things but I tried this lotion last year and it was streaky and I was never sure how I felt about it.

Well, Sunday afternoon (yes, I have church at 3pm) my roomie Shandi introduced me to this wonder:

Victoria's Secret Bare Bronze Spray

(the one on the right)

I'm not sure what the one on the left is but I'm sure it is a good product as well!

This stuff is pretty sweet. 10 mins before I was leaving for church I sprayed it on my legs, rubbed it in with my hand and voila... I had color! No streaks, no mess, no problem-o. You can spray it on as many layers as you want depending on how dark you want to be. This stuff isn't permanent or anything, but it made me feel good about wearing a dress without tights on Sunday, so that's all I wanted!

Sadly, I just was trying to find the link so that I could include it in this post. No bueno. I couldn't find it! It doesn't look like Vickie's is selling it anymore, so I might have to continue my hunt for a good self-tanner. Boo!

What self-tanner products have you been trying?

Help a girl out here!

I'd love to hear about it!

Lately...

2011-03-14T20:20:00.000-04:00

Ry and I @ Pizza Factory - dinner with the fam.

at the airport - miss my fam!

Love these two!

Happy Valentine's Day! :)

Ry took me to a fab dinner.

Ya, I know these pics are late but better now than ever!

so happy :)

Faves

2011-03-14T12:42:00.000-04:00

So, this weekend I wanted to do a post with some pictures on my camera that I haven't updated since December. ... but no luck. It took me almost an hour to find the cord to connect to my computer, then my camera was dead, and then I couldn't find the charger for my camera. I know it's just a lot of excuses but I'm being serious when I say, I tried! (yes, I realize that my mom and a few select people are the only people who read this, but I'm gonna keep writing like I have a big posse or something.)

Well, I have found a few lovelies today and I just wanted to share!
Although I don't agree with everything on this. It sure is hilarious.

Another Audrey quote to add to all my faves. I think I want to buy this and put it in my room. You can find it here.

Happy St. Patrick's Day in three days! Don't forget to get your green on!

missing.

2011-03-10T22:32:00.000-05:00

this place. anybody wanna take me? I'm a really sweet travel buddy.

I'll be an awesome tour guide too.

Do It Anyway

2011-03-09T12:04:00.000-05:00

This week has been a little rough. I may or may not be in the worst mood ever this morning because I had to be at work at 7AM and sometimes people are just flat out inconsiderate, but I'm trying to be nice to them anyway, even though I REALLY don't want to be. This quote is a good one though... a good reminder.

New, New, New

2011-02-24T14:18:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been a little absent lately... I've been redoing my room and things at work have been pretty busy.

7AM-6PM conferences (no bueno)

I'll update you with lots of pics and things by the weekend, but until then...

I just got moved into a new office today at work. It's a lot better than my last one.

And then I found this cute closet office on Country Living.

Love Love Love.

My office at work is so not this cool.

Wish I had the time, space, and creativity to do something like this.

super bowl

2011-02-07T12:21:00.002-05:00

this was definitely my fave part. Click here to see the top ten according to FOX

Ryan's fam is from Pittsburgh so to put it lightly ... it wasn't their favorite night. It was kind of sad and depressing to be honest. But I thought it was wonderful because we ate yummy snacks and got to spend some time together. I mean that's what Super Bowl parties are all about, right? (yes, I know it is not what it is all about)

I did wear a Steelers sweatshirt, so Ryan feels that he has converted me. (not quite)

My fave thing about yesterday really was that I got to wear my latest purchase to church. Seriously, loved it.

Banana Republic sure does make me happy!

and I got it for 50 % off. Seriously. Best buy ever.

I told my mom this yesterday and her text reply was,

"Oh good, so I did teach you something."

:) Sure did.

love this.

2011-02-01T11:24:00.003-05:00

blog. it's fab.

and btw. Is anyone watching The Bachelor this season? There are some serious looneys on this one. And why does Brad think that Michelle is normal? Weird. This is pretty good TV!

here we go again.

2011-01-26T15:17:00.000-05:00

pretty sure this is gonna happen tomorrow. well, hopefully not as bad. Is it terrible that I'm praying for a snow day? don't tell.

i wish...

2011-01-25T14:22:00.003-05:00

Lately, I've been trying to think of new hobbies that I could start investing in. I have these creative friends/fam that are so wonderful. I just want to be like them!

My wonderful cousin Marie made our family Christmas card for us one night in December. Seriously, this probably would have taken me dayssss and she did it in one night. She is so creative. If you need anyone for baby announcements, cards, etc. She does a fantastic job & at a great price!

My beauty of a roomie Danielle has been taking a photography class. I am jealous. Seriously! I have this fascination with photography and wish that I was talented enough to take such beautiful photos. I haven't seen any of D's work yet, but I'm sure it is wonderful. Here's a pic from one of my fave photogs: Ashlee Raubach.

via Ashlee Raubach Photography

I have been blog stalking b dunlap and love, jenna for some time now. I REALLY want to take a calligraphy class. It is soooo fascinating and elegant. Seriously, wouldn't you love some of these little lovelies at your next party? The top one is a valentine's day card. Simply perfect. Still can't figure out how to get myself into a class to learn this stuff...(sigh).

via b dunlap

a little much?? probably. I don't love it THAT much.

via Love, Jenna

Oh and I'm digging this song right now:

i'm a fan...

2011-01-24T15:00:00.004-05:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More lifestyle

oh and btw... my talk went well. surprisingly. :) good thing my 2nd counselor said I don't have to speak for the rest of the time he is in the bishopric--so i'm assuming that will be for as long as I'm in this ward. YESSSSSS!

speaking of...

2011-01-23T14:21:00.002-05:00

I'm speaking in church today. ugh... I know I will receive blessings and all, but I'm not so big on the whole public speaking thing. oh well. wish me luck!

hi. i'm the newbie.

2011-01-21T12:40:00.005-05:00

so... I just started this new job with a new employer and at a new location.

I'm working for a government contractor. Not so glitz and glam and I'm no longer "Ashley On the Hill" as my blog name would like to make it seem, but hey, I'm alright with that. :) I'm working in Arlington, VA. now so it's not too far from the city and I actually am liking it a lot. I'm learning the proposal process to win contracts with government agencies and hopefully will be able to play a key role in those contracts eventually. Guess we'll see!

I've been here for three weeks now and I'm finally feeling like I'm getting in the groove with things. I still feel like I'm the newbie, but that will just fade with time. That doesn't mean that I don't totally miss Donna from my old job on the Committee. She was my bff. love her. But we're still besties so it's okay. :) My bff in my new office is my Diet Coke for now.

So new job, new year, new me (i found out why i gained weight while working on the Committee - Donna's yummy cookies - so I've def lost weight since leaving that place).

Cheers to 2011!!

up at the bird...

2011-01-20T21:06:00.000-05:00

snowbird...

look at my cute parents up in front of us... awww

Happy Birthday Mac!

2011-01-13T13:48:00.000-05:00

My little brother is not so little anymore! He turns 16 today! yay! :) He is going to be datin and driving. WEIRD! I'm old!

McKay is my "baby" brother. I know he is not a baby but I still remember him being so teeny tiny. Mac is so funny, smart, driven, and talented. And he officially passed me up in height about two months ago. I am definitely going to be the shortest of my siblings by the time everyone is done growing. Tha'ts okay though I still love him :) Miss you bud! Happy Birthday!!

From Chi-Town

2011-01-12T13:57:00.002-05:00

No... I didn't get to go there. and yes, I want to. Although, I did fly over Chicago when I was on my way back from SLC over Christmas. I took a pic on my iPhone in the airplane... it didn't turn out, so I'm not going to waste your time trying to figure out what exactly is in the picture.

I just wanted to post Elder Swope's latest email from the mission field. He is doing fantastic and I thought this was definitely something that people should hear about:
He is my little brother just in case you don't know!

Dear family,

wow i think i had one of the best weeks of my mission this past week. We taught so many people, and we healed so many people with priesthood blessings. last thursday we taught the maria's, we were reading out of the book of mormon and something came up about prayer and asking for safety. Big maria looked at me and said, "we have a serious question to ask you" so i said ok shoot, and she said little maria has been experiencing the devil calling her at night... it TOTALLY caught me off guard so i got real serious and told her that satan is real and we need to be very careful with how we go about talking about those things. So we told her we would give her a blessing then dedicate the house. Elder painter gave little maria a blessing of comfort and just before we left i dedicated the house. This was insane to me, we all knelt down in a circle in the living room and i prayed. I kind of felt like i should say it like a blessing. I blessed specific parts of the home and blessed that everything would be made safe for the family. Then toward the end of the prayer i felt prompted to command whatever was bothering them to leave the house in the name of jesus christ... what happened after i finished saying those words was really undescribable, just as i finished we heard a loud noise at the back of the house and wind blowing out of a door or window or something like as if the spirit was LITERALLY cast out of the home. my knees started shaking, i got scared, im crying right now just thinking about this experience because of how strong the priesthood is. My comp was saying afterwards that it was like a story straight out of the new testament where jesus cast out devils. The priesthood is really strong and we need to use it everyday of our lives and live worthily to use it. Yesterday was also probably the best day i'vehad so far on my mission. We taught 5 lessons and got 8 new investigators, and one of the girls that we taught is a strong catholic, told us that if she recieves an answer that the book of mormon is true that she wont be able to deny it and turn her back on christ. It was really an amazing day, an amazing week. I've really seen diligence play a role in our success as missionaries this week. I hope everyone had a good week, i love and miss all of you .

Love,

Elder Swope

He is doing great. I love how after reading his emails, I just want to love more, serve more, read more, and share the gospel more. I know that he is where he is supposed to be and my family has received many blessings because he is serving a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

xo,

Ash

Tomorrow...

2010-12-22T09:55:00.001-05:00

I'll be here...

Jealous?

Sianara DC

and btw...

I got a new J-O-B
more info on that later

the chick and the duck

2010-12-19T15:27:00.002-05:00

So this is totally not Christmas related, but I just had to share it with everyone.

I have this obsession with this TV show...

I have been watching it before going to bed lately. (ok ... I did this for almost a year once upon a time)

but today I saw an episode where Rachel's love interest Joshua is afraid of the chick and duck that live with Joey and Chandler. He has a "fear of farm animals"

Don't worry that's not the end of the story.

About four years ago, I went on a date with a boy. He was nice ... but there was nothing there. For some reason he really thought there was though. I told him that I loved FRIENDS and that I thought it was so funny that they had a baby chick and duck in their apartment. Thinking nothing of it, I went home for the night.

The next day I got home from work and there was a little box in our driveway. I opened it to find a real baby chick in the box. HE BOUGHT ME A CHICK!! Ya ... not a good idea. My dad made me take it back to him because we had no idea what to do with it. We never went out again.

oh and btw...

I've been missing this place lately.

December in DC

2010-12-18T00:52:00.001-05:00

well... technically I'm in Alexandria, VA. but I'm close enough to DC.

Here's what I've been up to this week.

It's been a good one.

We went and saw the movie the Tourist... ehhh..

I have amazing roomies who are oh so domestic. They teach me to bake and cook. It's great.

so I made these...

Candied Nuts

with this girl...

Danielle! ok she did most of the baking but I participated!

Ry and I went to the temple to see the lights and listen to Christmas music. It's always a winner.

In the Visitor's Center @ the temple

Danielle met us there. Love her hat.

We got snow!!! yay!


so happy about it!

and tonight we had a Roommate Christmas party! It was fab.

Danielle & Shandi

Me & Rachel


& we got each other jammies. & watched Serendipity. love girls nights.

December has been good to me so far. Now Ry and I just need to make it to Utah...

so excited.

My Christmas List

2010-12-08T17:57:00.001-05:00

Remember when you were a little kid and you had to wait til your parents said you could go downstairs and open your presents? at least that's how it works in my house.

My family still does that. (We do still have an 11 year old)

and I LOVVVE it. even though I'm 23. and supposedly an adult. (I have had a hard time coming to terms with that lately.

Pretty much I have been trying to find gifts for people lately. I never thought I'd say this but sometimes shopping is hard. :( no bueno. Don't worry though I have had success in most shopping experiences.

Last night I was looking to buy stuff for my brother, Alec. He is on a mission in Chicago right now and it is FREEEEEZZZING cold there. I am not going to tell you what I got him since that's not very fun before he has received it, but I am going to say the candy that I included was so difficult to find!

Ryan and I searched 4 different places last night: Target, Shoppers, an unknown gas station, and CVS. Guess what - no dice. No one has Mamba's out here and that is Alec's fave treat. Don't worry -- 7-11 pulled through for me this morning. Ryan had fun harrassing the gas station clerk by asking him if he could order us some mamba's. Probably one of those things that you had to be there for but I laughed for a good ten minutes straight.

I'm missing Utah right about now. The snow, the mountains, and the Salt Lake temple lights are all things that I seriously love this time of year. I wish I had more pics to post or something but lately it has just been REALLLLY cold here.

My house has been super cute lately. All lit up with a Christmas tree and lights on our door. We are so festive and I feel pretty good about that being single twenty-somethings. :)

Here is my Christmas wish list. I dunno if Santa reads blogs, but I guess it can't hurt to put it out there right?

love this hat... from Sundance

these Frye boots... the price is painful to look at but they are adorable!

and ...

spending time with these peeps

and I'm bringin this guy...

i'm stoked.

I really do ♥ Utah

2010-11-16T16:10:00.000-05:00

so... this is my week in pictures. I LOVED every second of it.

lunch with mom, cousins, aunt, and grandma

dinner with Rach ... love her

best friend got married! yay!

got to see my girls!

isn't she gorgeous?

spent time with some of my favorite people (kes & ryli)

saw some more of my girls!

hung out with my mama

met up with Chels & Lisa for lunch... so fun!

Bay and her cute friends

my dad

grandparents

enough said.

love utah. miss it already!

Speak Now

2010-11-05T11:23:00.001-04:00

this CD has been the only music I have been listening to for the past week.

so basically since the moment I left Target... I have been listening to it.

I LOVE IT!

she is so fantastic... I would like to think if I could sing (which I sadly cannot) I would sing songs like her.

I dragged Ryan to her concert in June... it was wonderful (on the floor - 13 rows back) YESS!

I'm sure Ry would have rather let me go with some girls but I took him anyway... he is a good sport.

T. Swift - June 2010

Anyone want to come with me next time?

I'm pretty sure one time was enough for Ry

i'm sorta lovin on this song right now:

just in case you were wondering...

2010-11-03T12:28:00.000-04:00

... i'm already packin up to move to the majority offices. Last night was a BIG win :)

pretty sure I stayed up til 1AM watching the polls come in... ya i'm a junkie like that.

********************************************************************

In other news, I had a frightening experience this morning. I woke up at 6:30 in the AM to something tickling my arm. I was almost positive that it was nothing and my sheets were just hitting my skin really softly or something. ... and then the tickling continued. I put my hand over to swipe my arm and oh my... it was a big scary SPIDER! YUCK! (what great timing huh? Halloween was only 3 days ago)

yuck yuck yuck

I cannot even explain how freaked out I was. I picked it up and threw it into the darkness of my room. Then, I jumped out of bed and started to look for it (at this point I had turned the light on). Oh boy, I cannot believe I found that nasty thing without my glasses on. I had to put my face really close to the carpet to make sure it was the spider and it was still alive and breathing! yuck. so i'm sure you can guess how the story ends. I killed it, but I couldn't go back to sleep. and I LOVVVE sleep.

VOTE.

2010-11-02T12:56:00.000-04:00

Considering I work in politics, I do not write very much about it here on my blog. I'm not sure why... maybe because it is all I do all day long ... or maybe it is because of where I live... not sure? Or possibly... quite possibly... it is because I feel a bit jaded with the experiences that I have had out here. Still, not sure. It is a topic that I talk about often, but do not feel the need to push those issues at my friends and family (as those are the only people who would possibly read this). But today is different... today is election day. I would hope that no matter what side of the aisle you choose to sit on, you are voting today. We are so lucky to live in this country and have the right and privilege to vote (even though the outcome may not always be what we wanted). It's easy peasy and your vote can make a difference.

Happy Halloween!!

2010-10-29T16:15:00.000-04:00

doesn't my mom look cute? love this.

happy halloween!

alright alright...

2010-10-28T14:18:00.005-04:00

so I finally decided to do a little post about myself, instead of all my faves. Pretty sure my life seems quite boring compared to a lot of other people's lives but I'll attempt to make it sound so super sweet! :)

work has been pretty slow lately. and when I say slow I mean SLLLLLLLLLLLOOOOWWWW like the tortoise part of the tortoise and the hare. pretty much there are zero congressmen in DC right now, so our lives are stagnant until at least Nov. 2nd (when hopefully we will take back the majority) and my job will completely change. (fingers crossed)

I've been sick lately ... no bueno. I love how when I call my parents to tell them about these things I get two completely different responses. My mom says, "Oh no! I'm so sorry! Maybe you should go to the doctor to make sure it isn't bronchitis/pneumonia" (p.s. she is such a smarty.... i would have just lived with that cough forever and not even thought about going to the doc) And then when I talk to my dad he says, "You sound terrible. Your mom is right you should go to the doc. I never get sick. I don't know why everyone else always gets sick." so maybe they are not totally opposite, but my dad is so healthy that I wish I could be that way. He makes me laugh. I'm pretty sure all attempts and not getting sick were taken... I even got a flu shot this year! (maybe that is WHY I got sick) yuck. But now I'm over it so things are good again :)

I love how blog world helps you to see and hear about friends that you haven't heard about in ages. My friend Dani posted this video on her blog and i'm pretty sure I just told everyone in my office about it. Not only is David Beckham a babe, he can really keep a straight face. love him.

oh justin...love you

2010-10-27T11:25:00.000-04:00

i know this has kinda become a bunch of my favorites lately and not much about me...

but for now this will just have to do!

the fresh princess

2010-10-20T16:42:00.005-04:00

remember when you were 8 and you would watch re-runs of fresh prince? oh wait ... i was 22. awww... will smith.

well check out his daughter willow...

and she is nine... (almost ten)

will & jadda truly do have one heck of a gene pool

oh the life of a celeb ...

and their kiddos

2010-10-14T15:51:00.000-04:00

"To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable."

— C.S. Lewis

'tis the season

2010-10-14T13:28:00.002-04:00

a lot of my beautiful friends...

are going off and gettin hitched!! 2010 has been the year for so many. I cannot even tell you how many wedding invites I have received. and i love it!

sadly, I don't live in Utah so I wasn't able to go to most of their weddings, but I must say I do have the most gorgeous friends. These are just a few of them but take a look :) & yes i did steal these off of FB ...

seriously...

Heather and Steve (07.30.10)

Mallory & Adam (08.04.10)

Lauren & Whitney (08.28.10)


Manda & Blake (09.18.10)


Kassie & Whitney (10-9-10)

and these two are getting married in November:


Aubrey & Brady (11.11.10)

I told ya that I have pretty friends...

I don't think any of them read this... but I'm so happy that all of them were able to find such amazing men. All of them deserve it. Love you girls!

jus a little dashboard...

2010-10-13T16:42:00.001-04:00

so i went through this phase where i was seriously IN LOVE with this guy....

chris carraba from Dashboard Confessional.

alright, i still think he's cute... even under all those tats (that you can't see in the pic above)

pandora has been my partner in crime at work today. and i've been listening to lots of good stuff.

but i'm really just craving this song right about now...

love love love.

2010-10-12T14:28:00.000-04:00

this weekend I was not feelin so great...

I was surrounded by soup, medicine, and cough drops.. boo! :(

and then last night I started losing my voice... ya know... kinda like Ariel?

you know it's been a long week when....

2010-10-01T14:25:00.001-04:00

I can't get this out of my head...

First watch this.

Then this.

Don't worry... you can buy the song on iTunes.

last weekend.

2010-09-30T11:36:00.002-04:00

we went river rafting!

in class V rapids...

INTENSE

and I got to wear this beauty...

So hott right now... :)

this video is not us... but it's the same river we went down

this really hit me today.

2010-09-28T16:19:00.001-04:00

I feel I need...

2010-09-28T11:45:00.000-04:00

this.

seriously.

lollipop

2010-09-16T11:26:00.002-04:00

When I lived in Paris, I lived with a family that had 5 children. The youngest, Lidwine, was ten and she was very energetic and fun to be around. (She was great for learning French with because she hardly spoke English)Miss her!

Anyway... this morning I had a flash back because my roomy Danielle had her ipod going and a song came on that reminded me of Lidwine & it made me super happy :) Enjoy! (Andee if you read this ... you know what I'm talkin about!)

2010-09-07T13:55:00.001-04:00

Last week I was trying to fix some paycheck issues at work
I'm a part of the student loan repayment program and although it sounds great ...
they should call it the "charge you on taxes to repay your loans but not really repay your loans program"

Long story short... I hate dealing with these people. So I had emailed Claire (the lady who helped me last time) with my latest problem. 3 weeks went by... no response.

so I end up going to the office. They rotate being at the front desk to take on people who are "walk-ins". So I go in and I start telling the lady all about my problem. Here is how the convo went down...

Me: so... there is my problem. Can you please help me fix it? Claire hasn't helped me at all since she hasn't even tried.

Lady: (blank stare) ... (typing on her computer)... hmmmm... what do you mean?

Me: I have tried emailing and calling Claire, since she knows all of my information. She hasn't responded at all and it has been three weeks.

Lady: (blank stare) ... (still typing) well I just don't understand this.

Me: Okayyyyyyyyy... Is there any way I can talk to Claire?

Lady: (raises her hand) I am Claire... I did not recieve your emails

Yikes... I swear she does not look the same as she did last time I dealt with her.

Ughhhhh...

my new fave

2010-08-23T10:22:00.003-04:00

this weekend i went shopppping.... for jeans. I haven't been shopping for jeans in almost three years because I have a friend that I would always get them from in Utah. Sadly, I do not have that option any longer.

But... I found these beauties at GAP and they are the most comfortable jeans in the world!

LOVE LOVE LOVE.

giveaway

2010-08-16T09:37:00.001-04:00

Seriously best giveaway ever...

and since i'm in an office all day. i NEED IT! :)

check out this blog and you can enter too!!

love.

2010-08-12T09:54:00.008-04:00

"Being in love is a good thing, but it is not the best thing. There are many things below it, but there are also things above it. You cannot make it the basis of a whole life. It is a noble feeling, but it is still a feeling. Now no feeling can be relied on to last in its full intensity, or even to last at all. Knowledge can last, principles can last, habits can last; but feeling come and go. And in fact, whatever people say, the state called "being in love' usually does not last. If the old fairy-tale ending "They lived happily ever after' is taken to mean 'They felt for the next fifty years exactly as they felt the day before they were married', then it says what probably never was nor ever would be true, and would be highly undesirable if it were. Who could bear to live in that excitement for even five years? What would become of your work, your appetite, your sleep, your friendships? But, of course, ceasing to be 'in love' need not mean ceasing to love. Love in this second sense - love as distinct from "being in love' - is not merely a feeling. It is a deep unity, maintained by the will and deliberately strengthened by habit; reinforced by the grace which both partners ask, and receive, from God. They can have this love for each other even at moments when they do not like each other; as you love yourself even when you do not like yourself. They can retain this love even when each would easily, if they allowed themselves, be 'in love' with someone else. 'Being in love' first moved them to promise fidelity: this quieter love enables them to keep the promise. It is on this love that the engine of marriage is run: being in love was the explosion that started it." -- C.S. Lewis

this was read at a wedding i went to a few weeks ago. i love it.

utah, birthdays, and weddings

2010-08-02T22:03:00.001-04:00

4th of July

fireworks, barbeque, good friends ... great weekend.

My Birthday!! 23 ...

I got to spend my birthday with some of my favorite people on the planet!

Grandma K, Dennis, & Ryan... we had so much fun

lauging, driving, exploring, and walking in the hot, hot heat!! (sorry about that Grandma) :)

Rachie got MARRIED!yay!

She looked gorgeous (as usual)

I was SO happy I was able to be there.

my mom and boop

Beautiful wedding and I got to see so many people i LOVE! like this beauty :)

Julianne

Mac

booper... being boop.

miss them!

DC Temple

Mike & Kelcey got married!!

I wish I had pics of their beautiful reception in Georgetown... it was UNREAL!

That's my update for now...

xoxo

intimidated

2010-07-19T12:26:00.000-04:00

on Saturday we went to Kings Dominion near Richmond, VA

and rode this...

"Intimidator 305, only the second Giga-coaster ever built in North America, will be the tallest and fastest roller coaster of its type on the East Coast. The lift hill will stand a towering 305 feet at its highest peak; descend 300 feet at an 85 degree-angle and thunder along the track at speeds in excess of 90 miles per hour during its three minute race to the finish."

scared me to DEATH. I lost my vision for a portion of the ride, because of the G forces? Not sure what that means ... but it was scary.

My body took a while to get back to normal. yuck.

straight from the hood of provo...

2010-07-14T16:07:00.007-04:00

Verse:

I'm an RI dude with east coast flavor, all I do is heat throw...laser/drop a new tune cuz we need more haters/ the beat is D-minor but he's so (major) oh oh!/ (I'm) bench pressin' from the intro/ consider the bar raised, these other artists playing limbo/ talk fast, think slow, all black, brim low/ his flow droppin' (has) got it poppin' like a pimple/ them Provo cops steady mobbin like 10-4/ but why they stopping all the parties at ten for?/ Shorty was a ten though, I started innuendo and she's loving the gaming so we (Wii) playing Nintendo/ So what's the business with them digits?/ She said she's only 17 and she only give her number out to members of the team/ It's 801 and I love it, and like Mormon chicks man, we got it all covered.

Hook: I ain't got no problem with girls out in Orem but there ain't nothing like a Provo girl/ See they all stay pretty out in Salt Lake City but, there ain't nothing like a Provo girl/ I get in after dark in the city of Park but, there ain't nothing like a Provo girl/ Dang sure ain't nothing like a Provo Girl/ Dang Dang sure ain't nothing like a Provo girl

Verse two:

My girl Katie, she tight and she swears that this (is) her theme song/ she lookin right with her KDMG on/ her man (is) summer selling so seduction don't seem wrong/ but if he liked it, then he shoulda put a ring on/ and then my chick named Carrie, hot or cold she's ice skating or tanning/ not quite 18 but she just got married/ moved when she was 6 but she still claims Cali/ And ain't another place in the world like this/ and you can complain and say that Provo girls ain't it/ you say it's wack but what (are) tryna get at/ it ain't where you (are) from, but where you pay your rent at/ Don Ricky's so mean, and SiD is vicious/ the Gold Member team, we don't miss it/ Down for whatever, never ridin' solo/ Can't stay here forever, but I'm loving Provo

pre-fourth post.

2010-07-02T12:18:00.005-04:00

Last year, my fourth was spent with these people...

miss them.

This year things are going to be a little different.

But I WILL BE ENJOYIN THE SUNSHINE! :)

and... celebrating our freedom in the nation's capitol ... not too shabby for Ashley..

HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY

{lightning}

2010-06-28T15:29:00.002-04:00

I love thunderstorms... just not when I have to walk through them...

DC weather is weird.

Way weird.

I came to work today and it was sunny....humid...and HOT!

and afternoon hits and it looks like this outside...

thunderstorms... all the time. seriously.

just hope that I don't have to walk through that on the way home!

love this song.

2010-06-21T13:01:00.000-04:00

today is a good day.

2010-06-18T15:15:00.003-04:00

Seriously. 2 reasons:

What could make your day better than eating lunch while watching these two speak in front of a bunch of LDS Congressional Staffers.

Elder Cook and Elder Ballard. Amazing.

They both spoke candidly and directly to all of us. There was even a question and answer section at the end. This was a great opportunity and I was happy I was able to share in the spirit there.

I get to go see this guy pitch tonight.

Strasberg.

We are right behind home plate. I'm so excited.

Love baseball games.

Any fun plans this weekend?

i could really use a wish right now.

2010-06-17T15:04:00.004-04:00

seriously.

the bachelorette.episode.4

2010-06-16T10:42:00.002-04:00

wow wow wow.

sometimes I wonder why I am so fascinated by this show.

this week I just have a few thoughts that I am going to go through.

let me know what you thought!

1. Alli - yucky extensionsssssss!

2. Robertoo. ya we know you know how to work the women. who would of thought of the novel idea to sing to Alli and not to the piano guy? duh!

3. Weatherman ... yes you are a SCHMUCK!

4. Kasey. wow. tattoos are a no-no ... seriously.

you are not proving anything except for the fact that you are nuts.

5. Justin. callin Kasey out as a "fibber" ha. how the tables have turned.

6. Chris L. One of my faves - I did think it was weird that Alli surprised him with her favorite artist Joshua Radin... still cute though.

7. Kirk. that was sly buddy. taking the girl to her room to take care of her?? hmmm...

8. To bring us back to the schmuck of a weatherman. he pouted when Kirk took her back to her room and said he never got to have any time with her...calling himself a schmuck. you said it. i'm just agreeing with you. no wonder she didn't pick you.

9. who made the call on the spandex? not attractive.

10. Jesse sang the best out of all the guys and didn't get much credit. poor kid.

11. Kasey why are you singing to her? weirdy.

12. He didn't even show her his tatt... what the heck...

haha this is definitely going to get interesting.

powell.

2010-06-15T11:47:00.004-04:00

my family is here right now...

Lake Powell.

i'm so jealous i cannot even hold it in.
sadness.
and i get to sit in an office all day while they get tan. :(

I miss the fun houseboat, games with fam & friends, swimming, wakeboarding, tubing, boating, laughing, playing, tanning, star gazing, cliff jumping, the list goes on and on... i even miss getting the houseboat ready to go out and come in!! geez i am so deprived! haha. At least I got to go to NY last weekend - which I will post about when I am in a better mood.

boo!!!

almost.

2010-06-11T19:20:00.003-04:00

so. I know I already blogged today but I had to share this with everyone.

I am on my way to New York for the weekend right now.
yes, on a bus. - it's the megabus. I went on this same bus a year ago with my lovely cousin Rach, my aunt Carolee, and my mom. so naturally I'm a pro at taking the bus. I know where the stop is and I know how to get there. ya right!

I went straight from work to the bus stop.
I had my bag packed - check!
my laptop - check!
my cell phone - check!
and my purse - check, check and check!

so I'm feeling pretty good about everything. I left the office about 45 mins. before the bus' departure time.
So I go down into the dirty metro to get to my final destination, which would be Chinatown in DC (where the bus would be).
For some reason I went into auto pilot once I got down into the metro. I just got on the train that would take me all the way to my HOUSE in Alexandria! Worst decision ever. and of course, I realized this right AFTER i got on the train and was headed into VA.
So... to sum things up ... at this point my bus was going to be leaving in 20 mins from Chinatown and I was now at the Pentagon metro stop. I hurried and switched lines.

While I was waiting for the train to take me BACK where I came from -- I was looking for the signs just to make sure I was going to the right place and that I was going to get on the right line. This lady comes up to me and is like "this is not your train baby doll". I politely ignored her and just kept going on my way. Then she started yelling... "THE AIRPORT IS THATAWAY DARLIN'" haha. I seriously wanted to turn around and yell back that I was not going to the airport but I was too frantic to even speak. I finally got on a yellow train at 10 mins to the hour. I had 10 MINS to get there. 10 teeny tiny measly minutes. Defeat. I wanted to get to NY so bad and I thought I had planned everything out perfectly, because of my stupidity I was not going to make the DANG bus! but I decided to try anyway. ....

LUCKILY ...
I made it to Chinatown with 4 mins. to spare.
I booked it to the bus stop (3 blocks with luggage, a laptop case, and my purse)
I MADE IT! and I am happy to say that I am writing this as I sit on the very bus that I feared was going to leave me in the dust.

Even though I was sweaty at least I made it. Right when I got up to the bus the bus driver turns to me and says, "honey, you gotta slow down you is gonna fall ova!" and that's what it felt like but... I made it! :)

the bachelorette.episode 3.

2010-06-11T14:58:00.004-04:00

can i just say that a lot of these guys are suppper unattractive. yuck.
but there are a few i like.. maybe after you read this you'll be able to tell? ya?

then there are a few who are super cute.

awkwards:
weatherman... you are a freak.
first kiss... fail
second would-be kiss... fail.
i don't think she's feelin it.

steve... you're cute.
the little picnic ... fail.
sorry :(

justin... rated r.
why are you crying?
you look like a fool.
and we all know that in a few episodes something is
going to blow up and you are going HOME...
back to your wrestling career.
we'll see how long that takes.

alli. your hair is not cute.
take out the straggly extensions.
please.

hunter. so cute.
i felt bad for him.
he was trying too hard.

highlights.

roberto. baseball player. enough said.

kirk... hot tub kiss... hot
but we all wish it was roberto instead of you.
still hot though.

chris l. he is so sweet. and really cute.

craig. you make me laugh.
telling justin how it is.
love it.

sister.

2010-06-08T16:22:00.005-04:00

i am so grateful that i have a sister.
i mean i love my brothers and all but a girls gotta have her sister.
lucky enough... {after almost 12 years of waiting} i got one!! :)

and she is adorable. and fun. and sweet. and talented.
things are just better when she is around.

love you and miss you bay bay!

Fearless.

2010-06-02T11:59:00.023-04:00

Last night was simply amazing...

I know I sound a bit like one of the millions of tween girls who were so happy to see Taylor Swift but COME ON... she was great

we had 12th row, on the floor, right there.
so great.
i had a perma-grin all night long. (you can ask Ryan ... he was laughing at me)

she sang almost all of my FAVORITE songs... and she wore a million different SPARKLY dresses - which I am still lusting after. My fave is the purple... LOVE IT!

Kelly Pickler opened for her. Her voice is great - not impressed with the look she chose. but it was fun still the same :)

here are the pics... ENJOY!

do not know how my hair ended up so messayyy... haha oh well!

sorry it's a little blurry. so excited! (well i was)

she walked right next to us! ... I was bummed she didn't look our way but it was still cool!
there was a little girl who was sitting by us who I let stand up next to me by my chair... she started bawling after she got to touch her arm! a bit obsessed?

He is such a good sport. He sat through a million little girls screaming their guts out!

FAB!

T.Swift.

2010-06-01T14:17:00.006-04:00

Tonight I am going to see her....

ecstatic.