Married!

That's right folks, Darren and I are now an old married couple. We were married in the Oakland Temple on December 19, 2009. The weather at the temple was beautiful. I was worried it would be freezing, being December and all, but it really wasn't. I couldn't have asked for a better day. We had so many family and friends that made the trip out to the temple, and we are so grateful that each of them was able to share this moment with us. We even had some laughs when my uncle accidentally made off with my best friend's dad's shoes after the sealing. Darren's mom organized a wonderful luncheon right after the sealing as well. Taco salad - so yummy! I was terrified of spilling it all over my dress, but I wore a snazzy apron and avoided any trouble.

Darren and I were able to have all of our family there as well. A few weeks prior my oldest brother called me and said he might have to go to the country of Georgia for a week or two in December, and he would miss the wedding. The Marine Corps suggested I move my wedding back a few days. As much as I love the Marines, they had another thing coming. He was able to find someone to go in his place so no blood was shed. It was the first time my whole family had been together in about two years, and it was so fun.

We were lucky enough to have an amazing photographer that flew out from Utah, and got some pretty great pictures.

Our reception that night was back in Hughson at the chapel in town. We were pretty crunched for time once we got home and things were a little crazy, but everything worked out great. We had so many people come to celebrate with us, and we are so grateful! It was sad once it was all over, but exciting to move on to the next chapter in our lives.

My two oldest brothers were in cahoots with an uncle or two of mine and did a number on our car - jacked it up and set it on bricks so we couldn't leave. Our wonderful photographer noticed this and tipped off my mom, who then tipped off Darren and I. Sorry boys :)

We headed off to Pacific Grove/Monterey for our honeymoon, and were so blessed to have everything paid for by my boss. It was a short three days, but it was nice to relax and be together since during most of our 5 1/2 month engagement Darren was in Rexburg. (Would NOT recommend this route to anyone).

It has been just over a month now and we are enjoying life in Mesa, Arizona, and excited for everything else our life together will bring us!