The Holiday Whirlwind

Wait. What? I have a blog? I completely forgot.

Who has time to blog during the holidays anyhow? But then so many good things happen during the holidays that are begging to be documented. So now, here I am, playing catch up.

There's so much to talk about. Christmas happened. My birthday happened. It's 2015. But let's just stick with Christmas right now, before I start hyperventilating.

This year was weird for me. The holidays went especially fast. Thanksgiving happened and then in the blink of an eye, it was Christmas. We spent Thanksgiving with my family. The weekend after Thanksgiving, we ran a Santa 5k. All runners dressed as Santa Claus for the race. Brian signed up to do it with me mostly so I'd be happy. This is something I've anxiously been looking forward to for the past year and it didn't disappoint.

I mean, just imagine it. Hundreds of Santas were running together through the streets of Ogden, Utah. It was a great sea of Santas. I felt like I had an instant bond with my fellow Santa runners. I'm sure they didn't feel any bond, because I'm a wacko person, but that's fine. I felt it. I was beyond excited. That's all that matters. To add to this awesome experience, there was also an aid station where kids dressed as elves passed out milk and cookies. There was water too, but whatever. I know I'm making this all sound very glamorous, however, running several miles in a Santa suit is very hot. And those beards were itchy. Gotta take some bad with the good I suppose.

I mentioned the holidays were strange for me. For some reason, I had a super hard time getting in the Christmas spirit this year, which doesn't really make sense because on the surface it seems I did everything right. I tend to be the type of person who goes overboard on holidays. I think everyday leading up to the big day needs to be a major celebration. I understand that can be exhausting for people around me. I think it was exhausting for me as well this year. But I kept making Christmas goodies, putting up decorations, and forcing myself to watch any holiday movie I could get my hands on all hoping this void would be filled. I went to White Elephant parties (where my gift was literally a white elephant), I sang Christmas carols. Heck, Brian and I even organized the Christmas program for our church's party. 

And let's not even talk about how much money we spent on Christmas lights this year. The sad part is, we didn't have some out-of-this-world light display. Munch the pooch kept being naughty and chewing through extension cords. Let's just say Brian and our dog didn't have the most cheery relationship through the month of December. 

Anyway, I kept getting frustrated that I had this empty feeling during the holidays. Who was I? Scrooge?! The Grinch?!

I kept blaming it on the fact that we had no snow. Christmas just isn't Christmas for me if it's not a White Christmas. It's easy to blame things on the weather. But I think the void was actually there because I needed an attitude adjustment. 

While the presents, and the lights and the snow are fun bonuses to Christmas, I think I kept forgetting the simple truth behind this special time of year. When you take all the chaos, food, parties, and glitter away, Christmas is really about a baby. He was sent here for us because God loves us. That baby, born in the most humble of circumstances, grew up to be a very brave man. He's the man who suffered and died for me so that I might overcome my faults and insecurities. He lived a life where He was often lonely, and He made that sacrifice so that I never have to feel alone. For that, I am very grateful. I know I said this post is just about Christmas, but let's delve into the new year a little bit. In 2015, I'm looking forward to strengthening my relationship with Christ and being able to understand my eldest brother a little better. I'm so very grateful for His life and example.

Now I know I really just needed to adjust my focus during the holidays, but I also knew a little snow would help my attitude. Christmas morning, I woke up to find my wild dreams came true. We fell asleep on Christmas Eve to dead, brown grass. We woke up Christmas morning to a thick and pure blanket of snow. That experience will make this Christmas one I will never forget. I didn't really want any presents this year . . . just some magical snow. God delivered!   

And I know I'm late to the party . . . . but here's the Weller Christmas card if you missed it: 

Are we hip or what? 

XO

Facing Fears

Last weekend, Brian and I talked my mom and sisters into going skiing with us. My fifteen-year-old sister had been a handful of times. My youngest sister had never been. My mom went once when she was in high school. We decided going for just half the day would be a wise plan.

It's funny how different my sisters are. Lexi is fearless. She rarely thinks about the consequences of her actions, she just acts on passion and willpower. It's something that more often than not gets her in trouble, but I also think it's a gift. I'm jealous that she can try things without being intimidated by fear. Even though she's only been skiing a few times, you would never guess it. She always wants to go on a harder run, she always goes faster than the rest of us, and she's the first to laugh at anyone who falls down.

Then there is Chloe. Chloe is sweet and careful about many things. She's shy around new people, she can get her feelings hurt easily, and the last thing she ever wants to do is hurt someone else's feelings. She is also very timid when it comes to trying new things. Even though she didn't straight out say it (remember, she probably didn't want to hurt our feelings), Chloe did not want to be on the mountain that day with skis strapped to her feet.

As we approached the ski lift for our first run of the day, I let the cool breeze whip at my bare cheeks and I took in the site of tall white cliffs that wore piercing evergreen trees as accessories. I hadn't been skiing since I was 13. In the past few years, I'd tried getting into snowboarding, although I wasn't that good. Brian and I decided after years of snowboarding, we should give skiing a go. I was sure I would be fine transitioning to skiing, but I was still a bit nervous. I could feel the fear burning in the pit of my stomach as our turn to get on the lift got closer and closer. I was afraid . . . but I'd never admit it. I'm somewhere in between my two sisters. I'm the one who often acts brave but the pace of my heartbeat would tell otherwise.

I looked down at Chloe and saw that her eyes were brimming with tears. I asked her if she was okay.

"I don't want to get on the lift! I'm afraid of heights," she cried.

My mom comforted her while I tried to be all profound and said, "It's okay, Chlo. It's good to do things that scare us."

We persuaded Chloe to get on the lift. She kept her eyes closed the whole time. On our first run down, Chloe picked up speed and couldn't stop. She sat down and Brian skied down the mountain with all his might, trying to catch her. After some coaching from Brian, Chlo figured out the magical slowing down power of plowing. We went on a few more runs. Chloe looked more confident. She was no longer afraid. I even thought she was maybe enjoying herself.

When we reached the end of the day with only a few minutes left until the lifts would close, we decided to head in to the lodge and return our ski rentals.

Chloe tugged on my glove and said with excitement, "Will you go one last time with me?"

I was thrilled to hear her ask. We hurried for the lift (she still closed her eyes) and took one last ride. She looked so graceful and had a perfect run. On the car ride back home, Chloe kept asking my mom when they could go skiing again.

Oh, and you never would have guessed it was only my mom's second time skiing. She only fell once, and that one time occurred because she decided to run over me. So yeah, we both crashed pretty good on that one. Then she just sprawled out on the snow and laughed. I couldn't get too mad at her for the whole incident ;).    

Sunday Best: Golden

sweater: Head Over Heels, jeans: Kohl's, booties: Kmart, watch: Head Over Heels, Idaho necklace: gift 

I realize it is totally not Sunday, but yesterday was my birthday and I didn't feel like spending time online. So as a late birthday present to me, you can just pretend it is Sunday as you read this so this post will make sense. Deal?

I wore this outfit on Christmas Day. BWell gave me the beautiful golden sweater and my parents gave me a gold-colored watch as well. It was the perfect laid-back outfit for lots of eating and card-playing.

The favorite part of my Christmas Day was when my family gathered around our computer to Skype with my brother. He is currently serving an LDS mission in California. As much as I love my new sweater and watch, the best present was by far hearing my little bro's voice.

Happy Sunday ;)

Sunday Best: Childish

sweater: Old Navy, jeans: American Eagle, boots: Head Over Heels, beanie: Bella Me Boutique gloves: Kmart

I bought this sweater from Old Navy on Black Friday. It is mega comfortable, warm, sports a peace sign (which I love), and I got it for 50% off. What a steal. Did I mention I bought it from the girls' section? I am wearing an XL child's sweater. This is going to be really embarrassing when I show up somewhere and a nine-year-old kid is wearing the same top as me.

Oh well. 

Also, Brian couldn't stop laughing at this photo he took of me . . . 

  

Really though, this is his fault. Doesn't he know as a photographer he's supposed to make me look good?

PS- This winter wonderland I live in is breathtaking. I can't wait for more snow! 

Sunday Best: Plain Jane

top: TJ Maxx skirt: Forever 21, flats: PacSun

Because sometimes, nothing beats a button-up, a skirt and flats. 

Also, these photos are from a month ago. 

Also, today was the first snowfall of the season and I made pumpkin roll. Life is good. 

That's really all I have to say. 

Truth Tuesday

• I am by no means a very good snowboarder, but there is something stunning about gliding across snow down a mountain. It is especially stunning when I crash and hurt my tailbone. Seriously though, I had such a blast spending Presidents' Day with my brother and sister as we hit up the slopes and shared many laughs together. 

• I think I am finally getting over my fear of ski lifts. They give me anxiety attacks. Not riding them. It's the getting off that freaks me out. 

• Also, I must look super manly in my snow pants because I was called a "dude" three separate times while boarding yesterday.

• Does anyone remember Hoku? Oh my goodness, I loved her when I was about twelve. 

• The guy in the car next to me at the red light today was totally picking his nose. We are talking knuckle deep. I felt super awkward and thought about rolling down the window to offer him a tissue. 

• I went grocery shopping last night with wet hair, sweats, and a baseball cap on. I asked Brian if I looked suspicious. He said that I very much looked like I was getting ready to steal some tomatoes and animal crackers. 

• Feast your eyes upon the prettiest filing cabinent I ever did see. Who knew filing cabinents could be so elegant-looking? This will be my next attempt at a DIY project. Definitely.  

Truth Tuesday

• Yesterday I made a snow lady. She is a lady because she is wearing my blonde wig from my Halloween costume. I built her right by our garage door so she could terrify surprise Brian when he got home from work. Building her made me realize that snowman is a sexist term. Brian and I decided they should be called snowbeings because that would be much cooler anyway. 

• Sometimes I dream of one day being a yoga instructor. Denise Austin is basically my hero. 

• I love Futurama. It's true. I really do. 

• If I could be a mystical creature, I would probably be a mermaid. Life would be like a constant beach day. Plus, I love seafood. Oh, but maybe mermaids don't eat seafood. What do they eat? If they eat fish or lobster or shrimp, does that make them half-cannibal? I am curious. 

• How is it that I can run for miles and miles outside and be perfectly content, but trying to run one mile on a treadmill seems like a complete chore?

• Touching dirty dishes in the sink makes me gag. So often times, I rope Brian into doing them. 

• I think snow is beautiful and I get giddy about clomping around in my snow boots.   

Now meet Martha, the snow lady. She has golden locks and a cheery face of strawberries:

Luna helped. . . 

All Is Calm. All Is Bright.

We hope you had a fantastic and safe Christmas. Here is a cyber card for all our cyber buddies.

This morning I've been reflecting on the last year and all the blessings that surround me. The snow is falling outside, there is a smile on my face, and I'm eating my king size Kit Kat. Life is good.

Wishing you all some happy moments over the next few days so we can end 2012 right.

With holiday love,

Brian and Kelsey Weller
(and Luna too)

Sunday Best: Feeling Festive

zebra sweater: Forever 21, vest: Maurices, jeans: Vanity, oxfords: Fashion Box, hair bow: Claire's, necklace: Forever 21

The last few days, I haven't been able to stop with the red and green. I'm adding hints of merry red to every outfit. Even if it's something subtle like a vest, a bow, or red lips. Or all three at once. I've got the Christmas fever. And really, what's more festive than an article of clothing covered in a zebra pattern? I argue nothing. These days leading up to Christmas are my absolute favorite. 

Happy Holidays! 

Sunday Best: Warm Fuzzies

ear warmer: Tai Pan, button up: Forever 21, floral top: Smith's, pants: Old Navy, boots: Zappos, mittens: Maurices, necklace: DIY

I might be more prone to wear darker, muted colors during the winter season. But now and again, I just go crazy with bursts of pastel color. The pops of pinks, greens, and blues just warm my heart a little. Much like a cute pair of mittens will warm one's hands. 

Here's to hoping we get more snow where I live this week! I want a white Christmas!

Wonderland

I feel like the little snow storm we had a few weeks back was nothing but a tease. The snow that fell flirted with my heart and then let me down when it melted away by the late afternoon.

Well, I'm ready for you snow. I want to go walking in a winter wonderland. And build a snowman in the meadow. Just like in the song. But I won't let any kiddies knock him down.

I want to experience a pounding. I want it to snow so much that I'm afraid to leave my house, so I'll just stay in and read a book by the light of the Christmas tree instead. I want to make snow angels. I want to go sledding until my toes are completely numb. Then I want to sit by the fireplace and wiggle the feeling and warmth back into my toes. I want the trees to be frosty. And I want to stand in a flurry of snowflakes and make a Christmas wish on each one.

I know many people that hate the snow. I know it can be cold and scary to drive in, but it really is so beautiful. Does anyone else out there dream of a White Christmas? What will you do when it snows? And if you live somewhere that the snow doesn't fall, what things do you do to create a winter wonderland of your own?

Instagrams & Milk

 Wellsville Mountains

 Pink lips 

morning snow

 My snuggle buddy when BWell is away

 temple trip with my mom 

 peppermint hot cocoa 

 watching my sister ball it up

 crunchy leaf throwing 

 Luna can't take her eyes off the bird in the tree

 Love my guy 

 Got my bling cleaned 

 Cold Stone date

 Hostess outlet purchases

winter wonderland at the cabin  

 a stiff arm from shooting the USU men's basketball game. At least I got to be right on the court! 

 craftastic sweatshirts made with my lovely cousin

 running holiday errands

 breakfast in bed from a good boy

 picture collage on our coffee table 

 handmade bridal shower invites 

 Luna the creeper 

 Aggie Kitchen cooking segment. It took 3 hours to make brownies and get the necessary shots. 

 a message left on my desktop 

gobble gobble 

Happy Thanksgiving, folks! We are with my parents here in sweet Idaho. After staying up late whipping up pies last night, we all decided to sleep in this morning. Now I'm off for a family run and then it's time to make rolls. Oh, yum! I hope you all enjoy this day. May you be surrounded by all things and people that you are grateful for. 

Sorry for the photo overload. Speaking of photo overload, I'm apparently running out of picture space on my blogger. So I'm turning to you experts. . .what do I do? Do I have to start paying for additional picture space or is there some sly action I can take to avoid doing so? I really don't want to pay if I don't have to. 

Well, that's it. Username on instagram is @mrskellwell. Feel free to give me yours too because I do adore looking at pretty pictures. Now go on. Eat, drink, and be merry.