I'm not quite sure what it is about this week. Perhaps it is just about that time when having a married status really settles in, halfway into your first year together. Or, maybe it is my rekindling of a love affair with making stuff (see my friend silly willey blog link). Probably, more likely, it is that I am going to turn 28 this year and that I have a blossoming career, along with the adult responsibility of providing our way through music school.
Whatever it is, I've been struck this week with the realization and observation that I hardly analyze anything anymore, that I don't really struggle to make decisions anymore, that I am not afraid to confront an awkward situation directly if I need to, and I certainly don't get overwhelmed or stressed about the past or the future, which used to really be one of my main issues. Somehow, one day recently I became a grown up, and it seems that my traces of naïveté, of free-reign emotions, and most of all, the primary offender of maturity and progression, overanalyzing have all but become extinct. Really, all that crosses my mind now is "why oh why did this take me so long to get here."
I've got to hand it to my wonderful husband, because truthfully, he has been the main catalyst of growth for me. I guess I never realized what amazing benefits my friends had to have a single trusted confidant that will keep all your secrets AND adore you at the same time. It would have been nice to have such a true friend when I was going through my early 20's. Shame shame, all the while my sweetheart was right there, hoping for the right look from me that said "ok, you can ask me out now." thankfully, I finally got around to it, and now I am so blessed and happy. I can really say that my husband is my best friend.
But now, I should acknowledge my savior, Jesus Christ and my loving heavenly father. Brig and I have been asked to give talks on sunday about the atonement, and how it has impacted our lives. There are so many things to say, but one stands out above the rest. This Easter Sunday, the atonement means new beginnings. To really feel that the lord, through his infinite power and love, can take a once confused and broken hearted girl, and turn that same girl into a shining example of simplicity and function, that is truly a miracle of the atonement.
So here I am, still me. Just better.
-Emily
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
http://wstandsforwe.blogspot.com/
Hi everyone!
I have finally made a new blog to commemorate our life in Boston as newlyweds.
As a heads up, I'll be making this blog private in about 3 weeks. You'll be able to follow me from now on, and my life from here on out at the link above.
*em
Hi everyone!
I have finally made a new blog to commemorate our life in Boston as newlyweds.
As a heads up, I'll be making this blog private in about 3 weeks. You'll be able to follow me from now on, and my life from here on out at the link above.
*em
Sunday, April 3, 2011
A tribute to my Grandma Jones
Last week, one of my favorite people passed away. My grandmother.
I know that everybody believes that their grandma or grandpa is the greatest, and rightfully so, but I really do believe that my Grandma Jones was beyond amazing and continues to be an inspiration to all of us who walk in her footsteps. And here is a lesson I will never forget - follow promptings to reach out to your grandmother (and anyone else.)
As I mentioned at her service (it was like a mini testimony meeting at a Presbyterian church), I recall driving to and from high school every day and passing by Grandma Jones' house and thinking to myself "why are we not closer?" Certainly geographic distance was not the problem, but the truth is at the time I did not know her and she didn't know me because we never made the time for it.
I always wished that I had the type of relationship with a grandparent that felt broken-in, welcoming and comfortable, but the truth is that sometimes years had passed between even a single interaction, or with nothing more than a Christmas day visit to exchange gifts. In other words, we didn't have the relationship I dreamed of. This reality never sat right with me (promptings from the spirit), and I decided as a teenager it was time to reach out.
So, I began visiting. At first I would stop by awkwardly just to say hi, and then kind of scramble to find things to talk about. Grandma was always gracious and excited to see me; though I didn't understand this at the time, it was always a highlight that I stopped by.
As time passed, the spontaneous visits began to cultivate more love between us and to forge a genuine friendship. I began to get to know more about her life, who she is, and how she really feels about things going on and things in her history. When I was having a hard time, and nobody in my immediate family could understand, I hopped over to Grandma's and she always seemed to have the capacity to not only listen with love, but to shoot right to the center of the truth, and to help me keep things in perspective. She didn't try to do that, she just naturally did. I began to find that my qualities are more than the sum of my parents, but that some of my gifts come directly from her.
I miss her already, but deep down I know that she is in Heavenly Father's arms, and is not too far away. Her integrity, honesty, generosity, capacity to endure trials patiently, continual quest for education and knowledge, fun-loving disposition and perhaps most paramount, her capacity to forgive and love beyond her comfort zone are certainly more present in my mind now then ever before.
This week, at her service, I really learned that it doesn't matter at all what you do for a living or how popular or cool people think you are, your income, or even what trials come up on your journey. What we remembered and what we spoke of at Grandma Jones' funeral were the little moments that built her incredibly strong character, and that she stayed the course of virtue and never wavered, despite trouble or opposition, and that she always gave as much as she could to those who stood in greater need than she, even though she was poor herself for many years.
Today was general conference, and one of our (mine and Brigham's) favorite talks was from Pres. Monson who spoke of temples. In such a parallel thought, I realize that if there is any distance between me and Heavenly Father, it is not a geographic problem. I need to heed those promptings to stop by the Temple and visit in Heavenly Father, in just the same way that I started visiting my grandmother. I am sure my He will appreciate those visits in much the same manner, and so will I. Interesting too that in conference, there seemed to be so much emphasis on taking care of the poor. Grandma was such a good example of this principle, and now it is my privilege to live up to her standard of charity.
I truly hope that she is enjoying her reunion with her sweetheart (grandpa), and I look forward to continually hoping that they both will desire to have an eternal bond so that my family can be together forever.
I know that everybody believes that their grandma or grandpa is the greatest, and rightfully so, but I really do believe that my Grandma Jones was beyond amazing and continues to be an inspiration to all of us who walk in her footsteps. And here is a lesson I will never forget - follow promptings to reach out to your grandmother (and anyone else.)
As I mentioned at her service (it was like a mini testimony meeting at a Presbyterian church), I recall driving to and from high school every day and passing by Grandma Jones' house and thinking to myself "why are we not closer?" Certainly geographic distance was not the problem, but the truth is at the time I did not know her and she didn't know me because we never made the time for it.
I always wished that I had the type of relationship with a grandparent that felt broken-in, welcoming and comfortable, but the truth is that sometimes years had passed between even a single interaction, or with nothing more than a Christmas day visit to exchange gifts. In other words, we didn't have the relationship I dreamed of. This reality never sat right with me (promptings from the spirit), and I decided as a teenager it was time to reach out.
So, I began visiting. At first I would stop by awkwardly just to say hi, and then kind of scramble to find things to talk about. Grandma was always gracious and excited to see me; though I didn't understand this at the time, it was always a highlight that I stopped by.
As time passed, the spontaneous visits began to cultivate more love between us and to forge a genuine friendship. I began to get to know more about her life, who she is, and how she really feels about things going on and things in her history. When I was having a hard time, and nobody in my immediate family could understand, I hopped over to Grandma's and she always seemed to have the capacity to not only listen with love, but to shoot right to the center of the truth, and to help me keep things in perspective. She didn't try to do that, she just naturally did. I began to find that my qualities are more than the sum of my parents, but that some of my gifts come directly from her.
I miss her already, but deep down I know that she is in Heavenly Father's arms, and is not too far away. Her integrity, honesty, generosity, capacity to endure trials patiently, continual quest for education and knowledge, fun-loving disposition and perhaps most paramount, her capacity to forgive and love beyond her comfort zone are certainly more present in my mind now then ever before.
This week, at her service, I really learned that it doesn't matter at all what you do for a living or how popular or cool people think you are, your income, or even what trials come up on your journey. What we remembered and what we spoke of at Grandma Jones' funeral were the little moments that built her incredibly strong character, and that she stayed the course of virtue and never wavered, despite trouble or opposition, and that she always gave as much as she could to those who stood in greater need than she, even though she was poor herself for many years.
Today was general conference, and one of our (mine and Brigham's) favorite talks was from Pres. Monson who spoke of temples. In such a parallel thought, I realize that if there is any distance between me and Heavenly Father, it is not a geographic problem. I need to heed those promptings to stop by the Temple and visit in Heavenly Father, in just the same way that I started visiting my grandmother. I am sure my He will appreciate those visits in much the same manner, and so will I. Interesting too that in conference, there seemed to be so much emphasis on taking care of the poor. Grandma was such a good example of this principle, and now it is my privilege to live up to her standard of charity.
I truly hope that she is enjoying her reunion with her sweetheart (grandpa), and I look forward to continually hoping that they both will desire to have an eternal bond so that my family can be together forever.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
the devil wears prada
This week has been a awesome!
Not only have I almost finished art project #1...tada! (still have to pick out a phrase and carve the letters to stamp on there)
*note the $8 flea market frame*
**someday i will get a nice camara so these pictures don't look so blah**
...I am also seeing the light at work! The way I feel this week is JUST like that moment in The Devil Wears Prada, where Anne Hathaway while getting slammed at work, realized that she totally can switch gears and take the house down. Working 50+ hours per week can be taxing in any line of work, but customer service/management of rental cars is especially so. There is a high turnover rate in this industry. I have come home and vented to Brigham many times about how often I consider going back to school for something else, or am not sure if I am cut out for managing people or running a business. Of course, he always leaves it up to me. A little intuitive pulse inside urges me to stay the course though, and that in the long run this experience will be a huge benefit for me. In general, I have had an interesting journey trying to create a career path and really commit myself to it. I've finally realized that I will be happiest if I just become the best person at what I choose to do, whatever that happens to be. Ultimately, it is the mundane, unglamorous things that really seem to amount the most at the end of the day.
In a similar vein, I AM switching gears and WILL BE making time for all the little things I love- like the things I wrote about in my prior blog post. No more of this madness of letting my life be run by a hectic schedule. I'm taking control! Although time is a limited resource, I've discovered by last week's artistic ventures that it's what keeps my fire burning bright.
BONUS goodness! This Sunday while at my friend Jessica's house for dinner (I visit teach her too), I discovered that we share a passion for making handmade books and printmaking!! Hello new art buddy!!! We are both thoroughly excited, well I can't speak for her, but I know I am :) Can't wait to hang out and make cool stuff.
Not only have I almost finished art project #1...tada! (still have to pick out a phrase and carve the letters to stamp on there)
*note the $8 flea market frame*
**someday i will get a nice camara so these pictures don't look so blah**
...I am also seeing the light at work! The way I feel this week is JUST like that moment in The Devil Wears Prada, where Anne Hathaway while getting slammed at work, realized that she totally can switch gears and take the house down. Working 50+ hours per week can be taxing in any line of work, but customer service/management of rental cars is especially so. There is a high turnover rate in this industry. I have come home and vented to Brigham many times about how often I consider going back to school for something else, or am not sure if I am cut out for managing people or running a business. Of course, he always leaves it up to me. A little intuitive pulse inside urges me to stay the course though, and that in the long run this experience will be a huge benefit for me. In general, I have had an interesting journey trying to create a career path and really commit myself to it. I've finally realized that I will be happiest if I just become the best person at what I choose to do, whatever that happens to be. Ultimately, it is the mundane, unglamorous things that really seem to amount the most at the end of the day.
In a similar vein, I AM switching gears and WILL BE making time for all the little things I love- like the things I wrote about in my prior blog post. No more of this madness of letting my life be run by a hectic schedule. I'm taking control! Although time is a limited resource, I've discovered by last week's artistic ventures that it's what keeps my fire burning bright.
BONUS goodness! This Sunday while at my friend Jessica's house for dinner (I visit teach her too), I discovered that we share a passion for making handmade books and printmaking!! Hello new art buddy!!! We are both thoroughly excited, well I can't speak for her, but I know I am :) Can't wait to hang out and make cool stuff.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Nitty Gritty: Projects 1 and 2
OKAY...Since last night I have been daydreaming non-stop and coming up with an action plan on how to get out of my current slump. Hopefully blogging this will help me to hold myself accountable for actually doing something creative.
[On a side note, I've been inspired to realize that although work is necessary and not always something I am in love with, it can be equated to those science and math classes or other G.E. courses of life. So, although my day job will include learning to manage people and run a business competently, I can still make time for the art classes of life.]
Since printmaking and collages are my main loves, I'll start here.
PROJECT 1: WEDDING CARDS MONTAGE
Objective: pick out my favorite cards (above)...then make a collage (either framed or glued on a large wooden slab) of the most interesting and adorable wedding cards. Then, either paint or stamp (hand made stamp) my favorite saying on top of the collage... such as "I am because we are" or something simple along those lines.
(courtesy of etsy)
I will keep you updated.
PROJECT 2: WOODCUT PRINT
Objective: Carve out an image that relates to our current life here in Boston and print it on beautiful hand-made (from the art store) paper, then frame.
And I will possibly carve an image like this:
Then I will print it on paper and put it in a frame, or two or three, like this (note the three framed pictures on the back wall):
Wish me the best! Here's to making time for what I love. As always, I will keep you posted.
[On a side note, I've been inspired to realize that although work is necessary and not always something I am in love with, it can be equated to those science and math classes or other G.E. courses of life. So, although my day job will include learning to manage people and run a business competently, I can still make time for the art classes of life.]
Since printmaking and collages are my main loves, I'll start here.
PROJECT 1: WEDDING CARDS MONTAGE
Objective: pick out my favorite cards (above)...then make a collage (either framed or glued on a large wooden slab) of the most interesting and adorable wedding cards. Then, either paint or stamp (hand made stamp) my favorite saying on top of the collage... such as "I am because we are" or something simple along those lines.
(courtesy of etsy)I will keep you updated.
PROJECT 2: WOODCUT PRINT
Objective: Carve out an image that relates to our current life here in Boston and print it on beautiful hand-made (from the art store) paper, then frame.
And I will possibly carve an image like this:
Then I will print it on paper and put it in a frame, or two or three, like this (note the three framed pictures on the back wall):
Wish me the best! Here's to making time for what I love. As always, I will keep you posted.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
back to my roots?
Last night, while on a date with my hubby in downtown Boston, we had some time to kill between dinner and a movie. An art supply warehouse (Blick) happened to be sandwiched between our restaurant of choice (Chipotle) and Regal movie theater (to see Unknown)...so naturally, I wandered in. Not surprisingly, the little buzz of inspiration for creativity swelled right back into me!
Sometimes I make fun of Brigham for being so crazy about music school, but until last night I somehow abandoned the memory that I was once, too, a devoted art student, and I absolutely loved every minute of it. I loved making cool hand made things, I would do it ALL THE TIME.
I graduated 5 years ago, and aside from a few minor projects, have not touched an art supply since. Brigham and I met at CSULB, almost 10 years ago - a school I chose on impulse during art class my junior year because I heard they had the best art program. I applied nowhere else for college, and had no other aspiration at the time than to become a graphic designer. What happened to me? The only thing that I have to show for my years at school in Long Beach is now my husband.
I am concerned that I have a growing list of talents that I no longer cultivate and am missing dearly:
1. Piano
2. Spanish
3. Writing
4. Sewing
5. Art
So what have I been doing since I graduated (since I clearly have not been making anything noteworthy)? Working. Work work work. I know that Pres. Hinkley said to forget yourself and go to work, but there are moments that I don't even recognize myself because I have been working too long doing things I don't love and don't want to define me. I have become a workaholic. Marriage has helped me to find more balance and joy, but before this I filled my life with jobs, classes, practical goals, books, and anything else that would keep me plowing down my tunnel vision.
I am now realizing that the me I love (chill, creative, artsy Emily) is buried deep somewhere inside and feels cramped and wants to come up for fresh air.
I don't want to sound ungrateful, at least I have consistently had a job...and I do enjoy working. I really believe that the problem is something else. Here goes owning up: there is a huge part of me that quits developing talents because (a) it doesn't seem to produce a viable opportunity for employment [excuse] and (b) [more truthfully] I am too chicken to share my true self with the world.
You would think in the days of Lady Gaga's spectacles that it would no longer be scary to put anything out there. It is scary though- it is probably more scary now than it ever has been. I have had truly terrible experiences putting forth my honest, eccentric, bold self...in written, verbal, musical or artistic expressions, and I have had equally terrible experiences hiding it. And I will admit that in the past, I have perhaps been a tad over-the-top with certain people, but there are definitely more occasions when I didn't say enough. With art, writing, music, or basically anything that expresses genuine sentiments of who you really are, there are potentially hundreds or thousands of people who may disagree with you, dislike your work, or worse, not even notice you are there at all. And at the end of the day, you are the one who will have to own it for better or for worse.
The quiet, hesitant, shy little girl in me must intuitively have known that I needed to marry a man whose true colors and talents are in full view of any person, at any time. My true colors are about as apparent as a chameleon dragon. It is kind of amazing to play a supporting role and watch Brigham dive into his life long dream of being a musician. It is more amazing to see what can be accomplished with one dedicated push in a single direction. There is not only a daily dose of faith and practice that go into his craft; he has a simple way of just knowing that people will embrace him, and his talents, no matter what, he always has a jubilant contagious smile. I just love it. Who knows, maybe the next thing I will make is a baby! (JUST KIDDING)
Seriously though, I am so happy to be pondering again. I am ready to get back to my roots. Art Supply Store here I come.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
New Bostonian
Hi everyone,
It's been a little while since our last update. We are still in love with Boston and each other and are loving marriage, despite freezing temps and snow being everywhere! Work is going great for me (I work only 5 minutes away from my house now) and Brigham got a 4.0 last semester. Brigham performed with Mike at a few church events over the course of December, and they are currently working on a Christmas CD that will be out next holiday season. They have now sold over 800 CD's and are excited about the success of their musical partnership. There were also multiple standing ovations at one of their performances!
Brigham is in the process of applying for a teaching credential program for music education, as well as his keeping his current degree program for viola performance.
I like working for enterprise, it's perfect for our situation and so far my favorite job since graduating college. I'm learning a great deal about how to manage and run a business, be conscious on the bottom line, and I love getting the discounts on rental cars!
We are learning to cook, budget, keep the house clean, and get around without a car (we didn't bring one to Boston)...which can get hectic occasionally since I work 50+ hours a week, and Brig has grad school to work on. Regardless, we are plugging away and have termed this year "the year of work."
Happy new year everyone!
It's been a little while since our last update. We are still in love with Boston and each other and are loving marriage, despite freezing temps and snow being everywhere! Work is going great for me (I work only 5 minutes away from my house now) and Brigham got a 4.0 last semester. Brigham performed with Mike at a few church events over the course of December, and they are currently working on a Christmas CD that will be out next holiday season. They have now sold over 800 CD's and are excited about the success of their musical partnership. There were also multiple standing ovations at one of their performances!
Brigham is in the process of applying for a teaching credential program for music education, as well as his keeping his current degree program for viola performance.
I like working for enterprise, it's perfect for our situation and so far my favorite job since graduating college. I'm learning a great deal about how to manage and run a business, be conscious on the bottom line, and I love getting the discounts on rental cars!
We are learning to cook, budget, keep the house clean, and get around without a car (we didn't bring one to Boston)...which can get hectic occasionally since I work 50+ hours a week, and Brig has grad school to work on. Regardless, we are plugging away and have termed this year "the year of work."
Happy new year everyone!
Monday, September 20, 2010
By Emily
The saying goes, "friends come and go, but family is forever" but I don't believe it, because I just married my best friend, so now my friend is forever.
I'm in the mood to write, so this post is a present for, not just Brigham, but all the friends who are true friends to me, and seem to be have a permanent residence in my heart despite years, or states, apart. I am so blessed with amazing, loving friends. Since I am now in Boston, and my life consists of working from 7am until 7pm, making dinner for my husband, running errands and chilling out at home, I'll give myself the liberty to expound on this sentiment strictly because I feel like it. I miss you all dearly, but I am also excited to make new friends!
FRIENDSHIP. (not quite)
In the last few years, I have had moments of losing touch with who I really am. It's fairly easy to drift into the lowest common denominator so that everyone around you can be happy, all the necessary things get done, to dilute your true self into having minimal, simplistic feelings, to not ripple feathers, or cause rage.
I once knew someone who, when I asked "how do you show your love for the people you love?", replied quite profoundly, "I show up." Then this person disappeared, or in other words, never showed up. What a failure! I have known many people like this throughout my years of making friends, who have come and gone, and as a result, have left a residue of weirdness in my memories that only forgiveness or forgetfulness can wipe clean, because there was no real bond of friendship.
I once met another "friend" on my trip to England, who I met in a youth hostel that I stayed at, who not only was from California, a world away, but also went to the same university as me. We hung out that day with some french girls traveling the city, and then the four of us went our separate ways. Coincidentally, the next time I saw that person, I was in the library of Cal State Long Beach, and though we were clearly in the library not doing much but goofing off on the computers, he suddenly became really busy and took off shortly after saying hello. I felt that behavior was rather erratic, considering the jolly memory of our ventures abroad, but then, I realized a valuable lesson almost immediately. True friends always feel warm and radiant in times of reunions, and false friends, or shallow people, can't or don't want to duplicate the feeling.
LOVE. TRUE LOVE.
Although these stories seem tangential, they're not. I am merely separating the wheat from the tares, metaphorically speaking. If marriage is the fruit of love, then friendship is the seed. If there is one thing that Brigham has taught me in the short month that we have been married (1 month and 1 week today), it is that it really is profoundly refreshing to be in the constant company of a true friend, one who I can be completely unruly toward (thank you birth control), and have complete confidence will still love me anyway, because for years I directly (though not purposely) observed him to joyfully be a true friend to anyone and everyone in his path of life.
Just being with him every day amplifies the joy of living in the comfort of my own skin, and I cannot even begin to describe how wonderful and weightless I feel about it. Thankfully, my wildest, most remote and almost abandoned dreams have, in fact, come completely true- though I will emphasize, not without exceedingly difficult trials. But all trials turn into blessings if we let them. In our little Welch family, there is no judgment, no awkwardness, and no lack of acceptance for my imperfections or his, which are not even attempted to be hidden. I can happily live up to my life's saying (which I got from Stacy, my BFF) that, "I'm pretty sure God made me on purpose..." and so does he, and then we just roll with it, love, rage and all. I finally feel like the real 'me' is back, and to me, this is what I always imagined a real marriage, and a real family to feel like. I just had to wait for it.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Update from Boston (from us both)
Hey Guys,
This is Briggie (and Emily) from Boston and I just felt like writing you all to say that things are great for Emily and myself here in Boston. Emily got the final word from HR today that she is hired to work for Enterprise in Boston. She was worried because they made her go through numerous interviews and the last one was intense, which left her questioning. As for me, I got accepted to the viola studio of Patrica MCarty. She was the teacher that I was told to study with while here otherwise my time here would be a waste (well that was the vibe I got from my previous teacher). Many of you know that sometimes it is not about the school but it is about the teacher. She has emailed me of what she wants me to play for her and I'm already practicing 3-5 hours a day to make sure that the first lesson goes well. What I find quite humorous is that in that the letter that my teacher emailed me to tell me that she would love to have me in her studio, she said that she also checked me out on YouTube (It was a concert I did playing the Trout Quintet with other teaching faculty from the Irvine Studio) and that she saw my website (hardeyandwelch.com). She seemed quite impressed and she said that I seem quite enterprising and that is a good quality to have in this profession. In addition to her searching me on google. Another student said that he had heard about me and searched me via google and commented on the YouTube videos. He said he did so to see how I play and he complimented my abilities.
So Emily and I want you all to visit if you can. There is a lovely park near here with a beautiful view of the city. The park has a fountain that kids can run through on a hot day. It is one of those kind of parks, beautiful. The first two nights we were here, we saw fireworks. They were gorgeous. Toward the edge of the park, there are docks, so if Ben wanted to go boating around the bay here, he would love it.
There is a great pizza place near here that has the same taste as Italy, trust me, I've been there. We took a tour of the city (part of my orientation week for school) and learned much about the city. We hope that when you guys come that you take the tour too, you will love it. It is known as the "Boston Duck Tours", It goes on land and on the water. I'm sure if you googled it, you could learn more. But it was just nice to learn about the historic artifacts of Boston.
We feel right at home. The ward welcomed us in nicely. We both bore our testimonies to introduce ourselves. I have been asked to give a musical number already, It'll be on Sunday for those wanting to come hear me, lol.
Our landlord is a police officer in the Boston Police Dept. We feel safe here. Although at times Emily tells me about her run-ins with the locals. In other words, she gets hit on by all the Hispanic and Black guys. Two days ago, while on the bus to her interview, a black fellow struck up a conversation about movies and how great the Celtics will be with the addition of Shaq...then he proceeded to ask her to the movies as she dismissed him with "I'm married, so no, and I'm from LA, so I'm a Laker fan." Then she got off the bus. But she missed the bus on the way home and walked to the nearest subway station about a mile away, and got honked at twice. The next day she was carrying two bags of groceries home (the grocery store is about a 10 minute walk from home) and an older Hispanic guy politely asked to help carry the load, then she said no, then he kept following her halfway down the block with pick up lines. Hence, from here on out Emily will be going grocery shopping in the daytime with me on Saturdays, as neither of us enjoy this neighborhood dynamic. Lol.
We just got the CD of our wedding pictures from our photographer Tegyn. We have posted the rest of the pictures to Brigham's Facebook account.
We are still waiting on the videographer to send us her creation, I checked with her today and it should be done in about a week.
Well that is about it from us in Boston. We will try to be good about writing emails in the future but don't rage on us if we are slacking.
LOVE,
Brigham and Emily Welch (Emily started contributing halfway through, hence the details about the locals - for the Jones fam, East Boston is to Boston as El Cajon is to San Diego...something we didn't know before-hand. Not that there is anything wrong with living in El Cajon Byron, lol)
This is Briggie (and Emily) from Boston and I just felt like writing you all to say that things are great for Emily and myself here in Boston. Emily got the final word from HR today that she is hired to work for Enterprise in Boston. She was worried because they made her go through numerous interviews and the last one was intense, which left her questioning. As for me, I got accepted to the viola studio of Patrica MCarty. She was the teacher that I was told to study with while here otherwise my time here would be a waste (well that was the vibe I got from my previous teacher). Many of you know that sometimes it is not about the school but it is about the teacher. She has emailed me of what she wants me to play for her and I'm already practicing 3-5 hours a day to make sure that the first lesson goes well. What I find quite humorous is that in that the letter that my teacher emailed me to tell me that she would love to have me in her studio, she said that she also checked me out on YouTube (It was a concert I did playing the Trout Quintet with other teaching faculty from the Irvine Studio) and that she saw my website (hardeyandwelch.com). She seemed quite impressed and she said that I seem quite enterprising and that is a good quality to have in this profession. In addition to her searching me on google. Another student said that he had heard about me and searched me via google and commented on the YouTube videos. He said he did so to see how I play and he complimented my abilities.
So Emily and I want you all to visit if you can. There is a lovely park near here with a beautiful view of the city. The park has a fountain that kids can run through on a hot day. It is one of those kind of parks, beautiful. The first two nights we were here, we saw fireworks. They were gorgeous. Toward the edge of the park, there are docks, so if Ben wanted to go boating around the bay here, he would love it.
There is a great pizza place near here that has the same taste as Italy, trust me, I've been there. We took a tour of the city (part of my orientation week for school) and learned much about the city. We hope that when you guys come that you take the tour too, you will love it. It is known as the "Boston Duck Tours", It goes on land and on the water. I'm sure if you googled it, you could learn more. But it was just nice to learn about the historic artifacts of Boston.
We feel right at home. The ward welcomed us in nicely. We both bore our testimonies to introduce ourselves. I have been asked to give a musical number already, It'll be on Sunday for those wanting to come hear me, lol.
Our landlord is a police officer in the Boston Police Dept. We feel safe here. Although at times Emily tells me about her run-ins with the locals. In other words, she gets hit on by all the Hispanic and Black guys. Two days ago, while on the bus to her interview, a black fellow struck up a conversation about movies and how great the Celtics will be with the addition of Shaq...then he proceeded to ask her to the movies as she dismissed him with "I'm married, so no, and I'm from LA, so I'm a Laker fan." Then she got off the bus. But she missed the bus on the way home and walked to the nearest subway station about a mile away, and got honked at twice. The next day she was carrying two bags of groceries home (the grocery store is about a 10 minute walk from home) and an older Hispanic guy politely asked to help carry the load, then she said no, then he kept following her halfway down the block with pick up lines. Hence, from here on out Emily will be going grocery shopping in the daytime with me on Saturdays, as neither of us enjoy this neighborhood dynamic. Lol.
We just got the CD of our wedding pictures from our photographer Tegyn. We have posted the rest of the pictures to Brigham's Facebook account.
We are still waiting on the videographer to send us her creation, I checked with her today and it should be done in about a week.
Well that is about it from us in Boston. We will try to be good about writing emails in the future but don't rage on us if we are slacking.
LOVE,
Brigham and Emily Welch (Emily started contributing halfway through, hence the details about the locals - for the Jones fam, East Boston is to Boston as El Cajon is to San Diego...something we didn't know before-hand. Not that there is anything wrong with living in El Cajon Byron, lol)
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Hitched
For some reason when I added pictures they came up in reverse order...but either way you can get a good idea of the day!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
**sigh**
Oh boy...this picture was taken months ago, and now the entire thing is covered in scaffolding. I hope hope hope that at least some of it comes down before August 13th. Here's to wishing...and praying...and hoping!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
June Answers
This month has been a good one.
Although week I caught a nasty bug from work, which has lingered in my system for an entire week and counting (and may have been caused by unsavory living conditions), there is something strangely calming about being sick that has completely turned my life upside down, in a good way. For a healthy girl, I am not accustomed to the delays that accompany forced bed-rest; i.e., calling in sick to work can be more stressful than actually working under the weather.
However, the plus sides of this situation are beginning to unfold. First, Brigham has proven to be a saint by completely taking care of me. That's nice to know, considering I couldn't even bring myself to wear makeup or dress in cute outfits for him. And, the fact that I have had horrible coughing spells did not deter him in the slightest from holding me or cuddling or kissing me sweetly. He's just more affectionate and sweet than ever! But, that's not the best part.
In the worst stage of my illness, it became apparent to both of us that I needed to find a new home that didn't keep me under the weather. That's not to say good things didn't happen in this house, because amazing, life altering things happened. Namely, by bunking up with an old Hawaii Mission pal/current RS president, I actually was enlightened with totally new information that COMPLETELY dispelled any lingering doubts or insecurities I have had about my untimely mission release due to so-called "health reasons" and I now feel more validated than ever that I served the Lord valiantly from start to finish, despite noted differences. I've been waiting for this revelation for years. Thanks Sharon- and to think, we could have had this conversation years ago!
But, back to the housing situation, as Brigham and I considered my options together, we figured I may as well just move in with Della and Bernie (Brig's mom and sister)...who live in Whittier, only 10 minutes down the freeway. Bernie, (a.k.a., Roberta, Auburn, Bertie) kicked Brigham out of the house earlier this year to overtake his bedroom, and it's still a sensitive spot. Della is still recovering from a stroke and a broken heart. I thought it would be nice for them to have Brigham around more before we take off to Boston, but really, it's turned out to be nice for me. Since I've been sick, and off work, I get to spend my days in the massage chair, spa, sauna, laying out by the pool, in front of the TV on a nice leather couch or bed, and getting treated to dinner and lunch. Best of all, I am getting to know the people who raised my love, and all I can see are good, dynamic, interesting people making the best of life. And, if there is one common familiar thread through it all, it is that Brigham is really loved.
Sometimes I get flashes of fear that this all can't be true. This is all just too good and normal and different than what life has given me in recent years. Last night when I went to bed, I realized that I need to let go of this fear of the bazaar, which equals stress, which equals down-for-the-count illness. Worry about finances, wedding details, my job performance, birth control, Boston transition, engagement stress on relationship, the future, and if Brigham and I are really going to make it are not worthy taxes on my time and energy. Maybe it's the antibiotics, but I really think things are going to be okay now. Better than okay. Blissful Happiness is all I see on the horizon.
Although week I caught a nasty bug from work, which has lingered in my system for an entire week and counting (and may have been caused by unsavory living conditions), there is something strangely calming about being sick that has completely turned my life upside down, in a good way. For a healthy girl, I am not accustomed to the delays that accompany forced bed-rest; i.e., calling in sick to work can be more stressful than actually working under the weather.
However, the plus sides of this situation are beginning to unfold. First, Brigham has proven to be a saint by completely taking care of me. That's nice to know, considering I couldn't even bring myself to wear makeup or dress in cute outfits for him. And, the fact that I have had horrible coughing spells did not deter him in the slightest from holding me or cuddling or kissing me sweetly. He's just more affectionate and sweet than ever! But, that's not the best part.
In the worst stage of my illness, it became apparent to both of us that I needed to find a new home that didn't keep me under the weather. That's not to say good things didn't happen in this house, because amazing, life altering things happened. Namely, by bunking up with an old Hawaii Mission pal/current RS president, I actually was enlightened with totally new information that COMPLETELY dispelled any lingering doubts or insecurities I have had about my untimely mission release due to so-called "health reasons" and I now feel more validated than ever that I served the Lord valiantly from start to finish, despite noted differences. I've been waiting for this revelation for years. Thanks Sharon- and to think, we could have had this conversation years ago!
But, back to the housing situation, as Brigham and I considered my options together, we figured I may as well just move in with Della and Bernie (Brig's mom and sister)...who live in Whittier, only 10 minutes down the freeway. Bernie, (a.k.a., Roberta, Auburn, Bertie) kicked Brigham out of the house earlier this year to overtake his bedroom, and it's still a sensitive spot. Della is still recovering from a stroke and a broken heart. I thought it would be nice for them to have Brigham around more before we take off to Boston, but really, it's turned out to be nice for me. Since I've been sick, and off work, I get to spend my days in the massage chair, spa, sauna, laying out by the pool, in front of the TV on a nice leather couch or bed, and getting treated to dinner and lunch. Best of all, I am getting to know the people who raised my love, and all I can see are good, dynamic, interesting people making the best of life. And, if there is one common familiar thread through it all, it is that Brigham is really loved.
Sometimes I get flashes of fear that this all can't be true. This is all just too good and normal and different than what life has given me in recent years. Last night when I went to bed, I realized that I need to let go of this fear of the bazaar, which equals stress, which equals down-for-the-count illness. Worry about finances, wedding details, my job performance, birth control, Boston transition, engagement stress on relationship, the future, and if Brigham and I are really going to make it are not worthy taxes on my time and energy. Maybe it's the antibiotics, but I really think things are going to be okay now. Better than okay. Blissful Happiness is all I see on the horizon.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Homegrown Wedding...
I am extremely excited about decorating the house for the wedding. Below are just a few hints of what is in store for the big day:
Most of you know that I love creating things. Planning a wedding on a budget can be stressful, but for me it has been so enjoyable. So many talented friends and relatives are coming out of the woodworks, and I really want to give them credit for all that they have contributed so far!!! So, here goes:
Mom and Dad...Thank you for our diamond, (originally your's for 25 years), your backyard, and all the elbow grease in getting the house photo ready!
Mom...Thank you for making my gorgeous wedding dress from scratch, based off of a picture, and for making all of the bridesmaides dresses, and for making all of the little girl dresses (all 15 or so of them)!
Amy Welch...Thank you for volunteering to make us a cake as our wedding gift! You are so talented and I'm so excited to see what you create.
Tegyn Friedman...Thank you for being such a sweetheart and volunteering to take our pictures pro bono and working with such tight schedules! We love helping you build your portfolio and we are grateful for the opportunity to be your guinnea pigs. May you have a long and successful career!
Bro Daynes...Thank you for promising me a timely marriage in my patriarchal blessing at 15 years old, thank you for being my parents jewler, and ours, and thank you for being our sealer in the San Diego Temple!
Olivia...Big Sis...Thank you for taking time out of your crazy schedule to make/design our invitations...and in advance, thanks for taking the longest roadtrip of your life to get to our wedding from Alaska.
Kjersta, Linnae, and Marly...Thank you in advance for planning and hosting my bridal showers...
Everyone else...Thanks for being so supportive of Me and Brigham. We feel the love!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Jones Soda + Welch's Grape Juice = Free Refill's of Love
Howdy ya'll! Welcome to my blog!
What a crazy flurry my life has been lately! Whoa! I'm just going to let it all out here. On New Years 2010 I had a hunch that this year was going to be my year- but I had no idea how much that would be true on every level. To lay the backdrop to how excited and happy this feeling made me, lets just consolidate the past five years into a little bundle called "an unfortunate series of worst case scenario events." Not to be down on life (because we all know how optimistic I am) but, let's be honest, things have been just a little messy for a few years, or, at the very least, less than favorable. No need to belabor the retelling of certain details, but I had, in fact, become so used to the fact that things so rarely went in my favor that I decided to just relent to the facts and embrace it as my lot. The people around me who love me embraced it too, sadly, because none of us honestly knew if or when things would ever turn around! The secret ninja backup plan I created the last few weeks of my mission to run off and join the Navy (which I still defend as sane and reasonable), became more appealing by the minute-- hey, at least it was profitable-- I could get paid well and travel the world while putting up with whatever nonsense was going to creep in anyway, why not? This was my year. I was finally going to press forward fearlessly in the direction of my own best interest, one more time, with every strand of my heart that I could recover.
So here we are- almost halfway through the year 2010, and what has become of me? On February 15, after a year of adequately pretending not to notice that I was treated with less regard than a doormat at work, I decided to intruduce myself properly. Of course, this was only feasable by quitting, because (a) there is no coming back from being a doormat, and (b) I had a lot to say, and I needed the message to get through. My greatest contribution to the company actually turned out to be my exit, because Michaela left too, and then the people with the power had no choice but to listen to and see and act on what they would not listen to or see or act on before. What gave me the conviction to do this was a small but consequential act on January 1, 2010 at about 2am, which set the precedent to everything going right this year. After I saw a friend from the past who turned out to be pretty bad friend after all, I greeted him with love and then, when I turned to go, I just didn't look back.
One week later, I went on my first date with Brigham Del Welch.
Lets just say that if my life were a gameboard with a spinny-wheel arrow that you flick and spin, and then anticipate which stripe the arrow will land on, that's about the extent to which I was able to anticipate that Brigham and I would (a) ever go on a date and (b) fall crazy in love. The impact that that one single date has had on everything in my life is incalculable even now. Talk about unexpected drama. Consider the odds that one of my favorite people on the face of the planet, a true friend from the past, turns up the exact week secretly I called the Navy to schedule the Officer Training Test for the third and Final time. Brigham did everything right that night. He must have calculated that Avatar was the longest movie EVER and if we sat there long enough I'd at least rest my head on his shoulder. I did, but not until the last 10 minutes. And as much as I searched for a way to deny him entry into my future plans that night, considering pride, or whatever else was influencing me inside, when it all boiled down to it, it felt too good to be loved for just who I am, and I wanted him to try for my heart, because I really wanted him to win it.
I'm not going to spell out the rest of our story, but just let it be known that there is a lot of love here.
Now I am calling shots at work- somewhat uncomfortably, yes, but at least with conviction. And somehow, miraculously, I am getting just about everything I've ever desired to have. It's ironic that I never really intend to tap into or take over power structures, but I seem to get into it everywhere I go for better or for worse. Fortunately, now I have undeviating trust in God, so whatever happens, I know the Lord is in it. To my true friends, I want you to know how much I love and deeply appreciate you for seeing me through and believing in me like no other. For those people who didn't believe in me, or who have done blatant hurtful things to me, no matter how well-intentioned, including gossip or passing judgement, I just hope you never know how painful that really is. To Brigham, thanks for being like sunshine. I am the happiest, even if I get a little ragey...because you're here.
2010: The Year of Honesty, Integrity, Family Values, Faith, Respect, Conviction and Forgiveness. And Lastly, Success!!!
What a crazy flurry my life has been lately! Whoa! I'm just going to let it all out here. On New Years 2010 I had a hunch that this year was going to be my year- but I had no idea how much that would be true on every level. To lay the backdrop to how excited and happy this feeling made me, lets just consolidate the past five years into a little bundle called "an unfortunate series of worst case scenario events." Not to be down on life (because we all know how optimistic I am) but, let's be honest, things have been just a little messy for a few years, or, at the very least, less than favorable. No need to belabor the retelling of certain details, but I had, in fact, become so used to the fact that things so rarely went in my favor that I decided to just relent to the facts and embrace it as my lot. The people around me who love me embraced it too, sadly, because none of us honestly knew if or when things would ever turn around! The secret ninja backup plan I created the last few weeks of my mission to run off and join the Navy (which I still defend as sane and reasonable), became more appealing by the minute-- hey, at least it was profitable-- I could get paid well and travel the world while putting up with whatever nonsense was going to creep in anyway, why not? This was my year. I was finally going to press forward fearlessly in the direction of my own best interest, one more time, with every strand of my heart that I could recover.
So here we are- almost halfway through the year 2010, and what has become of me? On February 15, after a year of adequately pretending not to notice that I was treated with less regard than a doormat at work, I decided to intruduce myself properly. Of course, this was only feasable by quitting, because (a) there is no coming back from being a doormat, and (b) I had a lot to say, and I needed the message to get through. My greatest contribution to the company actually turned out to be my exit, because Michaela left too, and then the people with the power had no choice but to listen to and see and act on what they would not listen to or see or act on before. What gave me the conviction to do this was a small but consequential act on January 1, 2010 at about 2am, which set the precedent to everything going right this year. After I saw a friend from the past who turned out to be pretty bad friend after all, I greeted him with love and then, when I turned to go, I just didn't look back.
One week later, I went on my first date with Brigham Del Welch.
Lets just say that if my life were a gameboard with a spinny-wheel arrow that you flick and spin, and then anticipate which stripe the arrow will land on, that's about the extent to which I was able to anticipate that Brigham and I would (a) ever go on a date and (b) fall crazy in love. The impact that that one single date has had on everything in my life is incalculable even now. Talk about unexpected drama. Consider the odds that one of my favorite people on the face of the planet, a true friend from the past, turns up the exact week secretly I called the Navy to schedule the Officer Training Test for the third and Final time. Brigham did everything right that night. He must have calculated that Avatar was the longest movie EVER and if we sat there long enough I'd at least rest my head on his shoulder. I did, but not until the last 10 minutes. And as much as I searched for a way to deny him entry into my future plans that night, considering pride, or whatever else was influencing me inside, when it all boiled down to it, it felt too good to be loved for just who I am, and I wanted him to try for my heart, because I really wanted him to win it.
I'm not going to spell out the rest of our story, but just let it be known that there is a lot of love here.
Now I am calling shots at work- somewhat uncomfortably, yes, but at least with conviction. And somehow, miraculously, I am getting just about everything I've ever desired to have. It's ironic that I never really intend to tap into or take over power structures, but I seem to get into it everywhere I go for better or for worse. Fortunately, now I have undeviating trust in God, so whatever happens, I know the Lord is in it. To my true friends, I want you to know how much I love and deeply appreciate you for seeing me through and believing in me like no other. For those people who didn't believe in me, or who have done blatant hurtful things to me, no matter how well-intentioned, including gossip or passing judgement, I just hope you never know how painful that really is. To Brigham, thanks for being like sunshine. I am the happiest, even if I get a little ragey...because you're here.
2010: The Year of Honesty, Integrity, Family Values, Faith, Respect, Conviction and Forgiveness. And Lastly, Success!!!
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
White Christmas!
Yep, this is for sure the best Christmas ever! Thank you, everyone, who gave me the most cherishable memories in 2009. I truly loved ALL of it, and am so grateful for even the questionable parts- lol. How happy could I be without the good laughs and the love that I never imagined could penitrate my stubborn heart and life so thoroughly. All my love to those who know they are the best, at least in my eyes.
"MERRY CHRISTMAS! To Everyone!"
"MERRY CHRISTMAS! To Everyone!"
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
In a nutshell
My recipe for an eventful 2009
5 classes
4 new roommates
2 new jobs (1 full time/ 1 part time)
2 moves
1 promotion
1 brand new bed
Mix in 100's of smiles, a handful of disappointments, a dash of big decisions; cook on high stress; let simmer, then cool down. Enjoy!
So, it's December now, and I am trying to imagine what surprises 2010 will bring! Who knows, knowing my longstanding propensity to unintentionally attract complications. One can only hope! It's small, but I've come up with a to-do list:
-Remember each of my 5 siblings (+ their spouses) and my 17 neice's and nephews birthdays and send them presents and cards.
-Visit Grandma Jones at least biweekly
-Acquire at least 2-3 temple buddies
-Grow my hair long
-Attend at least 3 LIVE concerts for different musicians.
-Travel somewhere exotic, aka not in the continental US
-Actually DO my visiting teaching every month.
...
to be continued...
5 classes
4 new roommates
2 new jobs (1 full time/ 1 part time)
2 moves
1 promotion
1 brand new bed
Mix in 100's of smiles, a handful of disappointments, a dash of big decisions; cook on high stress; let simmer, then cool down. Enjoy!
So, it's December now, and I am trying to imagine what surprises 2010 will bring! Who knows, knowing my longstanding propensity to unintentionally attract complications. One can only hope! It's small, but I've come up with a to-do list:
-Remember each of my 5 siblings (+ their spouses) and my 17 neice's and nephews birthdays and send them presents and cards.
-Visit Grandma Jones at least biweekly
-Acquire at least 2-3 temple buddies
-Grow my hair long
-Attend at least 3 LIVE concerts for different musicians.
-Travel somewhere exotic, aka not in the continental US
-Actually DO my visiting teaching every month.
...
to be continued...
Saturday, November 21, 2009
On studying, and twilight
I wish I was one of those people who takes a camera everywhere I go and have really cute pictures to post, but , I'm just not. Next time I will get one of my cute roommates to take a picture of all of us, but for now, whoever follows this blog will just have to settle for my random thoughts of the day...
Anyway, I'll start with Twilight. I didn't read the books, but I just saw both movies this week, and now I am totally in love with Edward Cullen, even though he's a vampire. So now I have to read the books, of course.
The whole time I was watching New Moon, I kept having flashbacks to all the drama of my early 20's. I don't really remember most of the people I went out with, but there always seemed to be some kind of epic drama playing out, of which Meg, Bayba and I would spend hours of enjoyment analyzing and making predictions about. Ah, the good old days. I think we can all agree that if, in our circle of friends, there were a girl who would stumble into a situation between a vampire and a warewolf- just because it's bizaar, I'd be a likely candidate. Well, for that matter, me or Jen probably. The rest of you had it simple :)
Again, I should be studying right now about DNA and replication for a big test on tuesday. However, I am finding myself chronically resistent to the material. I just can't bring myself to do it today. I just cant! If anyone has any good suggestions on how to overcome my deturrance to studying like a normal college student, I'm all ears.
My new roommates are so cute. I've got a foreign exchange student from Germany named Ann, who is adorable, and girl who knows one of my mission companions, and 2 others who are the funnest girls ever. They are so friendly they they threw me a party and I've only been their friend for a week. Yay for nice girls :)
Anyway, I'll start with Twilight. I didn't read the books, but I just saw both movies this week, and now I am totally in love with Edward Cullen, even though he's a vampire. So now I have to read the books, of course.
The whole time I was watching New Moon, I kept having flashbacks to all the drama of my early 20's. I don't really remember most of the people I went out with, but there always seemed to be some kind of epic drama playing out, of which Meg, Bayba and I would spend hours of enjoyment analyzing and making predictions about. Ah, the good old days. I think we can all agree that if, in our circle of friends, there were a girl who would stumble into a situation between a vampire and a warewolf- just because it's bizaar, I'd be a likely candidate. Well, for that matter, me or Jen probably. The rest of you had it simple :)
Again, I should be studying right now about DNA and replication for a big test on tuesday. However, I am finding myself chronically resistent to the material. I just can't bring myself to do it today. I just cant! If anyone has any good suggestions on how to overcome my deturrance to studying like a normal college student, I'm all ears.
My new roommates are so cute. I've got a foreign exchange student from Germany named Ann, who is adorable, and girl who knows one of my mission companions, and 2 others who are the funnest girls ever. They are so friendly they they threw me a party and I've only been their friend for a week. Yay for nice girls :)
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