Channeling my inner "Zooey Deschanel"

Happy Belated Friday!
I've already broken the one rule I made for myself, as Zac informed me today: To only write on my bloggity blog on Fridays. How is that for consistency and dedication? Ah, American youth. ;) But seeing as my Friday yesterday was out-of-this-world-crazy (like the rest of the week), I'm writing on a Saturday evening. Deal with it. :) haha I'm just joshing. But srsly.
So, Happy Saturday Evening!
All week long I've been contemplating what I should write for today's blog, for I am a freak. In fact, while walking about campus, going to class, hanging out with the hubby, and attending rehearsal, little and huge things have kept popping up...sometimes mysteriously...sometimes not...Odd...

Sunday evening, after General Conference was over, I suddenly remembered the boat ton of homework I needed to finish for Monday. Grumbling, I sat down at my designated love seat homework place and plowed through it. I just wasn't very motivated! I finally finished everything by 1 am or something. Let me copypasta my fb status from a couple of days ago... "I threw a huge tantrum last night. "Tantrum?" You ask. "Chelsea's a mature 20 year old. She can't throw tantrums." CORRECTION. I CAN. I DID. I was really mad with how long my homework took me and how late I was going to bed AGAIN. I punched the mattress and the pillows and flung myself all over my room screaming, "I HATE HOMEWORK. I HATE EVERYTHING." Zac kept trying to calm me down and it finally worked when he said, "Chelsea, do a barrel roll." I did. And fell off the bed. We laughed for a long time." Obviously, win.
Tuesday, I woke to the sound of rain hitting the windowpane and immediately flew out of bed. I ran to the window, saw the rain, and smelled FALL. Zac woke up, after I flung the covers all over him. I asked him if he knew what rain meant. He said, "Wet?" (He was still sleepy) "No! RAINBOOTS!" I pulled out those puppies, put them on, and couldn't wait to go outside. Zac so kindly took pictures as we headed to class. He to a Chemistry lab, me to my Psych 111 lecture.

No shame. Back up.

Cutie patooties.

Later on that day, I got my grade back from my first 10 min play. Wasn't as awesome a grade as I'd originally planned. You can check out my other bloggity blog for more info. :) I came home from play writing just depressed and frustrated. I had no idea where my third draft was gonna go, how to make more action or develop my characters. So, in the end, I decided to scrap it, start new, and see where my next play takes me. You can see more about that on my other blog.

I hadn't let myself have a good cry after that class on Tuesday, so by the time I got to rehearsal that night, it all avalanched out of me. There's a point in the script where I have a mental breakdown. And let me tell you. I WAS SOBBING AND I COULDN'T GET ANY OF MY LINES OUT AND IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL. It was a specific choice I made while acting to just let it all go. My director and cast were so stunned after that run through, we decided to have a 10 minute potty break. I excused myself as quickly as I could and ran to the bathroom. My director came in to comfort me and make sure I was being a "healthy actor." She is the greatest. Man, I love her.

Wednesday was the longest day of my life so far this semester: Woke up @ 7am, Stage Combat @ 8 am, Homework @ 9, Theatre History @ 10, Go home, eat food, put on make up/cute clothes @ 11-1 only to find out it's pouring outside so I actually could have napped, Fund. Lit. Int. @ 1, MEET UP WITH POTER @ 2 WITH ZAC FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS, rehearsal @ 6-8, then more hw.

Thursday, I slept until 11:23 am, happier than I've been in a long time. I ate fruity dino bites, played with my markers on the kitchen table, and decided to wear quite the "hipster outfit" to celebrate...

Zooey Deschanal bangs anyone?

Then I went to play writing and found out our teacher brought BAGELS!? I grabbed myself a cinnamon bagel, slathered it with strawberry cream cheese, and munched away. I found inspiration for my new play, which I fully intended to work on by going to library , but ran into Emily and instead walked her home. We talked for several hours. SO EXCITED FOR HER WEDDING, YOU GUYS. DECEMBER 17TH. AND HER ENGAGEMENT PICTURES ARE TOO ADORABLE. GAH! 

Then at 5:40 pm, I got a surprise text from my director saying, "Hey all we have an invited audience today! We will meet in the nelke, perform for them at six forty five, then you can all leave for homecoming spectacular or whatever! :) yay!" DREAD. INSTANT NERVOUSNESS. I hugged Emily tight and ran to the HFAC, thanking the heavens I had my costume on hand. But then I remembered my hair ^see above and wondered how I'd look decent enough for an audience. However, there wasn't any time to worry about that. I got into costume, in character, and helped set up the stage all in 10 minutes then we did the show. Once again, I am amazed at Taylor's talent and how she consistently brings new  things to the table. Our performance was really inspiring and I heard a girl say to Hannah as I exited the stage, "She was brilliant." As I smiled to myself behind the wall after my exit, I couldn't believe I deserved such a compliment. But it felt right to accept her praises and the Spirit filled me. Like this soaring euphoria of peace and like Heavenly Father was so pleased with me. :)

I just wanted to hug and kiss and skip all over the place. And on top of everything else, I loved my hair. haha In the end, my hair just looked amazing. I think I'll keep doing the flippy-bang-I-don't-care-aren't-I-cute? look.

That happiness spilled over into my cleaning frenzy I had later on that night :)

I wear mismatching socks. nbd.

Friday, as mentioned earlier, was super busy with classes and my first "real" performance of "The Stronger." We performed for one of David Morgan's beginning acting classes. David Morgan was my beginning acting teacher! So that was fun. And as we packed up to leave, so many people told me, "You were great," "You were amazing," and "I love shows like this. You were brilliant." Being the awkward mess I am, I just mumbled, "The playwright knew what he was doing and I just say what he wrote. But thank you!" haha It was a little awkward because I recognized one of the girls in his class as being at the callbacks for the show. I tried very hard not to make eye contact with her. I thought I'd melt or spontaneously combust. Merp.

Then I marched to the library, studied for a Psych test for 4 hours, then took the exam. I only found out the day before from a TA that if we were planning on taking the test on Monday, which was the last day to take it, they don't hand out 200 tests. Therefore, if you don't take it before Monday, you could very well not have a test to take. So I had to take it last night and I didn't feel anywhere near prepared as I would have if I'd taken it on Monday like I originally planned. However, my grade was only lowered to an 85. I'm still gonna get an A. But crimeny!

I came home after that failblog test and cuddled with Zac. We watched "I Am Legend" and then went to sleep. I woke up this morning at 7 and was at the library from 8 to 11:30am studying for a theatre history test. Five short answer questions and one essay. Why do I do so much better at short answer and essay tests than multiple choice? Not fair. :( But I left the test feeling awesome about my study habits and motivation. I came home from campus elated and once again cuddled with Zac. We watched new episodes of both "New Girl" and "Glee." 

I woke up from a four hour nap an hour ago.

Zac's making me dinner and it smells AMAZING in our apartment.

Here's to the little events in life that make the big things seem small! :)

How's your week been?

Is this real? :/

Good evening!
My, my, my. Today was a jam-packed and wild ride of a Labor Day. :)
Zac and I met a rather odd and hilarious gentleman while we were on campus this morning at the library. He asked us if we could take him to the Heritage Hall dorms. Seeing as Heritage Halls is on our way to our apartment, we decided to help him out.
Oh, good golly.
We begin walking with this pajama clad and tattered sandal wearing stranger across campus. He pulls out his cellphone and greets Veronica on the other end. "Veronica? VERONICA! I LOVE YOU, VERONICA!" 
He then begins telling Veronica, consequently me and Zac, his whole life story. Every. Single. Detail. His abusive upbringing, his messed up parents, his suicidal tendencies, his rebellion from religion, and the drama with his family. 'I am officially disowning  my parents. I am getting a new last name this week.' You may think this was terribly awkward. YOU'RE RIGHT.
Uncomfortable as his choice of conversation was, he wasn't uncomfortable at all. He was hilarious, likable, and highly entertaining. I found myself laughing along with him and Veronica. In fact, when he told Veronica he lost 60 pounds, Zac and I were like, 'Dang, son!' And then he turned to us and said, 'I know right?! I go to Westminster and they have a free rock wall and all this other free sports equipment. You have to be fit to use that *&%$.'
I think I may have been the only one to notice he made a vulgar rhyme. I giggled to myself.
He was from Salt Lake visiting all his 'Mormon friends.' He told Veronica he was inactive in the Mormon church but still went to church two Sundays of every month. Merp?
We reach the Heritage Hall dorms; Zac and I begin frantically asking anyone we pass where building '25' is located. None of them know what we're talking about. Our new friend is still talking away on the phone, usually still walking even though we've stopped to ask for directions. Finally we find the building after aimlessly wandering around the dorms. We sit on the steps in front of the building with him and he asks us if we want to meet the friend who lives in building '25.' 'Of course we do!'
We waited for him to finish his phone conversation so we could go inside, but that opportunity never came. While we waited, Zac and I found out more information about this stranger. He helped build houses recently for Habitat for Humanity and decided he had a good knack for it. As such, he's bought several plots of land n Utah and has 'done all the math' and he'll be a 'millionaire by January.'
We realized we needed to get home soon so we bade our friend goodbye. 'You two are some awesome Mormons! New best friends!' We laughed and wished him well. He then invited us to the Bamboo Hut. 'I've invited some friends. Be there at 5. And it's all on me.'
Doubtful?

[Scene Break]

Zac and I celebrated Labor Day with Emily and Tim! I ate my very first Colombian hot dog. OH. MY. WORD. So good! Onion, lettuce, bacon, hot dog, ketchup, mustard, shredded cheddar cheese, crushed potato chips, and a little bit of honey drizzle. Smack in the face-taste explosion! 

We didn't have mayonnaise on it...And trust me! It is sooo good!

We also went to a park and I am getting much better at Frisbee. Zac said so. :) Then we all came back to our apartment and chatted while eating strawberries and sugar.
Quite the amazing day, if I do say so myself. :)

Wedding photos that may or may not get framed...

My wedding photographer, Ethan Watts, just sent me the last batch of our wedding photos. 483 of them. :)

I thought I'd share with you a few that had a particular impact on me. :) Some of these pictures made me "Aww" out loud.  And, fortunately, there were some that made me snort in laughter.

Enjoy :)

Zac's grandfather is the sweetest man on Earth.

Dawwww Ian!

Shh! Don't laugh at mom bending over!

Ridiculous :)

Mom, what could possibly be so important?

Possibly the cherry on top of the cake :D haahhahaha

Beginning of my novel...Yeah that's write. A novel. (And a pun). :)

Late night post I know...

BUT. I have excellent news! I am beginning a new short story, which could very well turn into a novel. However, I'm shying away from such a lofty goal at the moment. Best to stick with baby steps and see where this goes. :) I thought I'd share with you the first couple of pages of the story. I've only been working on it for three days, so it's still rough. Of course, praise, constructive criticism, and suggestions would be lovely!

I want to emphasize how much this story means to me. The characters are influenced by many people I love and cherish. hahaha One character, though, is a combination of personalities I've come across in my life that have really irked me. hahah But seriously. I look forward to waking up, opening my laptop, and writing my heart out. The way I write is very meticulous and obsessive. I've been known to spend at least an hour on a single sentence, just so I can get it right. I can't just "spit everything out on the page and then revise later," as I've been advised to do soooo many times by teachers and friends alike. So keep in mind that revisions will be made, so updates may take a while.

That is if I decide to do updates...Hmm. If you are so moved by the story that you want updates, then I am at your service. However, if you find it boring or just horrible, I'll keep to myself. :) No worries.

[And without further ado...Here's...Oh, crap. I haven't thought of a title yet. hahaha But seriously. Here it is!]

They decided since they’re eighteen and have seven years to go until their brains become fully developed, that doing something outrageously stupid would not only be beneficial to their human experience, but quintessential to ending the summer with a bang.

Avery’s best friend, Martin Hambly, has never been a “live-on-the-edge-grab-life-by-the-balls” kind of guy. His name has always defined him. Even from the moment he emerged from his mother’s womb. Avery has two theories concerning the parallel between Martin’s name and Martin’s being. First theory: His parents took one look at their newborn son, saw his gangly appendages and pointed nose, then quickly agreed “Martin” would suit him just fine. Second theory: His parents believed his name would act as a protective shield from “harmful activities” and “bad influences.”

Enter Avery.

Not only has she introduced hundreds of “harmful activities” to Martin from the very early stages of their lives up to their present predicament and been a flawlessly horrible influence all the while, she has also managed to earn the deliciously disdainful judgment of his mother and the quiet encouragement of his father.

Clive Hambly is rather tall and lean, with a lopsided grin and an uneven haircut. Silver strands streak throughout his dark hair, almost like a black forest cut in fragments by racing rivers.

Melanie Hambly may conjure the picture of a slightly pudgy woman with wispy hair and a watering can always on hand, but this is false. Harsh reality: She’s pencil thin and a perpetually two-faced crow of a woman. And, worse, her auburn hair is consistently twisted in an updo. Just as her hair is permanently glued to her skull, so is her sickeningly sweet smile plastered to her face at all times.

Martin and his parents met Avery and Faye the first day of second grade. The classroom was crowded with plenty of skittish seven year olds and encouraging parents, but Martin was easily the edgiest. He stood close to his father’s legs and clutched tightly to his mother’s black skirt. Shifting his weight from one foot to the other, he wondered what the other kids thought of him. The collar of his white polo was itchy and he knew his recent haircut made him look like a dork. His parents remained rooted to the linoleum floor, waiting for the teacher to escort their son to his seat. Clive checked his watch: 8:44 am.

Fifteen minutes to the hour, Avery and Faye skipped into the classroom holding hands. As soon as they entered, the atmosphere became charged with a new vibrancy. What was once muted and dull became electrified. Faye was accustomed to being in the spotlight and passed the art of capturing attention on to her daughter beautifully. The pair’s effervescence seemed so genuine and nonchalant that others often looked on with either awe or jealousy.  

They breezed past other families waiting for the bell to ring and marched through the aisles of desks. Avery squealed when she found her nametag and Faye hurried behind her. When her daughter’s butt hit the chair, Faye smiled at Avery’s ridiculous tutu fluff up around her waist. Though she tried to reason with Avery in wearing a respectable outfit that morning, there was no way her tutu was coming off. Tired and frazzled, Faye agreed to let her wear the tutu for the first day of school and promised her it would bring good luck. Avery’s smile was worth the frustration that morning.

When Faye opened the desk’s lid and saw the cavernous well inside, she sighed, “A lot of homework is gonna get lost in here, huh?” It was a statement, not a question.

Avery wasn’t listening. She saw Martin on the other side of the room with his parents, standing near the door. Martin’s discomfort was so tangible she almost felt awkward. Why isn’t he happy?

Faye tapped Avery on the shoulder and pointed to the “Art Corner.” Cocking her head to the side, Faye invited Avery to come with her to the tempting easels. Avery smiled and took her mother’s hand. Once in the “Art Corner,” Faye picked up some sidewalk chalk and began doodling on the miniature chalkboard. Avery immediately found the finger paint. Martin stared wide-eyed as Avery dunked her hand in a cup of bright red paint and wondered if she would get in trouble with the teacher. He watched as Avery held her dripping hand out like a zombie, rolled her eyes back, and moaned. Her mother turned, was momentarily shocked at her daughter’s acting talent, but then gasped, “Put your hand down! Not near Mommy!”

Her pleas came too late. Avery’s mauled hand smashed into Faye’s face.

“You’re infected!”

Martin gasped loud enough to attract the attention of Avery and his parents. Glancing behind her shoulder, Avery caught sight of Martin’s surprised face. His expression sent her over the edge and she burst into gales of high pitched laughter. Her giggles were cut short by her mother whispering fiercely in her ear.

“You don’t put paint on Mommy,” She wiped her face with a paper towel, bent to her daughter’s height, and gently took Avery’s paint covered hands. “You need to be good.” An agitated cough above their heads brought them to attention.

Melanie and Clive stood above them with Martin firmly between their towering bodies, like a fortress. Faye first smiled at Martin while she was at eye-level with him, taking in his dark blue eyes and mess of brown hair, and then stood for introductions. Taken aback by Melanie’s gorgeous red hair and Clive’s welcoming green eyes, she became instantly aware of her loose fitting sweater and dirty blonde hair in a long, messy braid down her back. But she put that out of her mind and smiled warmly at the handsome couple.

Melanie spoke first, “You two seem quite the dynamic duo.”

Faye laughed, “Oh, trust me, it’s all her. I just try to keep up.”

“You don’t seem to be doing a very good job,” Melanie replied icily.

Clive broke in quickly, “I’m Clive Hambly and this is my wife, Melanie. And this,” He paused, “is our son, Martin. Can you say hello, Martin?”

Martin muttered a “Hello,” and then went silent. He stared at his sneakers as he blushed a bright red.

“Hello, Martin!” Faye returned brightly, “And this little firecracker is my daughter, Avery.”

Avery beamed at Clive and Melanie, showcasing her train wreck of a mouth. Faye had made three Tooth Fairy visits to her daughter’s bedroom in the past month. Though uncomfortable for Faye, Avery proudly bared her teeth whenever she could. Heat grew on Faye’s cheeks as she waited for Clive or Melanie to say something.

Clive coughed politely, “You have a beautiful smile, Avery. Right, Mel?”

Melanie managed to hide her grimace behind a strained grin, “Just lovely.”

The bell rang suddenly, releasing the tension in the group. Faye looked around for any sign of the teacher while Melanie snuck glances at Avery. The seven year old had a tangle of blonde hair, dark green eyes, and a splash of freckles across her nose. She wore a bright blue t-shirt, orange leggings and a red tutu. Her socks were mismatched, pink and green. Though colorful, Melanie had an instant dislike for the little girl’s outfit. It showed that the child had control of the parent. And the display she’d witnessed with the finger paint only solidified her assumption.

The teacher bustled through the door and parents began hugging their children goodbye. Clive and Melanie knelt down and embraced Martin tightly. He hugged them back, worrying what the rest of the day would hold. Faye picked up Avery in her arms and spun her around a bit before crushing her with a bear hug. Avery squeezed back just as fiercely, smelled her mother’s hair, and imagined all the adventures she’d get to tell her after school. As Clive, Melanie, and Faye stood up and looked down at their children, none of them would have guessed the two would become inseparable.

But sometimes parents don’t know everything.

The three adults left the classroom, Faye bringing up the rear.

She still had red paint on her palms.

For Charging Mothers and Drooping Eyelashes :)

We found two eyelashes on Zac's glasses approximately seven minutes ago. Just two mascara-less eyelashes, protected behind a barrier of prescription lenses. He took off his glasses and we pondered how they escaped his eyelid and settled peacefully onto the curved glass. He wondered aloud if he was falling apart. I giggled, as I always do, and whispered how cool the eyelashes were. He then corrected his earlier remark about falling apart and amended his statement to just his face.

I hope his face nor his actual being is falling apart. That would be almost as unsettling as finding two eyelashes on the inside of some dude's glasses. :)

I have never been comfier. My short legs are clad in my new favorite Victoria Secret Pink sweatpants, tied securely at the waist. My belly is full of movie theater popcorn and Sprite. We saw Stupid, Crazy, Love with Poter tonight. Steve Carrel, man. And shut the front door-Ryan Gosling. 

Man, it's late. 1:57 am. Zac's setting the alarm for 9:30 am tomorrow. Apparently he is also trying to seduce me with the ring tones available for our alarm. They are as follows: Slowly. Reverie. On the Prowl. Mirage of You. Into My Dream. Flash On. Oooh, that one wins. *smirkity smirk* 

And, no, nothing happened. His advances were rejected. :)

Nighty, night kiddies! :D

OH WAIT NEVER MIND. FIVE YAPPING DOGS JUST EXPLODED IN AN ARRAY OF HOWLS AND YIPS IN THE LIVING ROOM. Our house is wild with doggie pandemonium. Dogs we babysit. Bah. I want college.

Okay, for real. Bed time.

Sleep well.

When my brother and I were little, my mom gave us miniature glasses of water from the tap right before bed, but we wouldn't bat a single sleepy eyelash because we knew what was coming. My mom would then calmly turn out our light, back up down the hallway, pause dramatically, and then sprint into our room and shout, "DON'T LET THE BEDBUGS BITE!" She'd then slam the door and listen for our reaction. I always let out a scream and then laugh with my brother. After a good 3 minute giggle attack, mom would come back in and hug us tight. A goodnight kiss on the forehead. And a sincere wish that we'd have good dreams. 

[Moms are so rad, right?]

I have some super sleepy eyelashes at the moment and no charging mother to keep them from drooping, so my time has come to dream. Hopefully I'll wake to find two eyelashes on my pillow in the morning. Zac and I will wonder as to how they got there. And I'll question whether or not my face is falling apart. Or if it's just me.

:)

The wedding post :)

Hey, you! Guess what?
No, I'm not just gonna tell you. You need to guess!
We'll do a countdown! Three, two, one...Guess!
I'm serious. Guess.
I'm not playing around here.
I'll give you a hint, if you want.
FINE. I'll tell you.

I'M MARRIED!!!!!

Daw! Thank you!
I know, right!? So crazy!
I am so happy.
...And, yeah, I'm 20.

Zac's eyes are currently glued to the television. We're watching Ed, Edd, n Eddy! So freaking good. :)
Hawaii is so beautiful and I can't believe we're here. Zac and I are just relaxing and enjoying one another's company after many months of stress and planning for the wedding.
Speaking of my wedding...I NEED TO WRITE ABOUT IT. :)

[Haha, not to worry. I didn't just come up with that realization. I've been planning to write about the wedding the whole time. That's what this post is about...The Wedding Day and the week leading up to it].

Monday, June 20th- Mom and I left Arizona at 7 am to drive to Simi Valley, California. Mom and I stopped by a huge and wonderful outlet mall somewhere in California. I got a super duper cute dress and cardigan for my endowment session at the temple and for the honeymoon in Hawaii. :) We made it to Simi Valley around 3 pm and mom met Zac's step-mom, Amer (Annamarie), Ian (Zac's 3 year old brother), and Sammy, Zac's wonderful dog. So happy! Then mom met Zac's dad, Marc, a little bit later! Later that night, mom, Zac, and I went to the wedding cake decorator's home to taste test the cake samples. Ohhh. My. Gosh. We decided on a marble cake batter with her homemade strawberry and chocolate filling. We were so happy with the wonderful job she did and this was her second ever wedding cake! So amazing! Then Zac and I went on a much needed date. We went to a Borders, reading children's books and holding hands in the sofa chairs. Then we walked to his movie theatre and saw Midnight in Paris... SO BEAUTIFUL. I didn't know if I'd like it all that much, but man, was I wrong. Zac and I just loved it. 

Tuesday, June 21st- Mom, Zac, Karen (Zac's mommy), and I went to Ventura to get the marriage license. Hooray legal obligations! Then mom, Zac, and I went to a nearby beach. Mom hadn't been to a beach since she was 10 when we first buried our feet in the sand. She was so delighted and delightful. :) Afterwards, we went to The Habit, an amazing burger place. Mom loved her food and said she'd never eaten something so amazing. :D Ha! California is just too good. :) Later on that night, Zac had his interview with the stake president and he passed with flying colors (obviously). :)

Wednesday, June 22nd- Mom woke up all frazzled and intense. She jumped out of the bed we shared and said that we needed to get to the flower market in LA that morning, not the next morning like we originally planned. I shot to my feet and ran into Zac's room to wake him up. We were out the door in 15 minutes at 9 am. The one hour drive from Simi to LA was so fun! We had fun listening to music and chatting during traffic. Once we got to the LA Flower Market, though, we were all business. Or, more accurately, mom was. Man! It was so amazing seeing her in action. She was a florist for 21 years before she "retired" to be a stay-at-home mom. Having her do all the flowers for the wedding was so touching and I knew she was going to be amazing. She didn't disappoint. :) Thank you, mom. Then we picked up Emily and Tim from the LAX airport! I LOVED SEEING HER AND TIM AGAIN! As did Zac and mom. :D Later on that night I had my bridal shower! Sooo much fun! Zac, Tim, and Poter went to Sky High, a tumbling gym, for an impromptu bachelor party. They also went to Five Guys.

Thursday, June 23rd- Mom woke up super early to pick up Jim from the airport in LA and then had lunch with her brother (my uncle) who she hadn't seen in 20 years. Back in Simi, friends and family got together at the reception venue to start decorating. Paul, Melissa, and Julie arrived in Simi in the early afternoon and it was so good seeing them again! Then I went lingerie shopping with Karen and Zac's sister, Stephanie. hahahah We had some major fun. >< Then we rushed home to get me changed and presentable for my temple endowment session at 5:30. I was so nervous and I couldn't believe that it was finally here! I won't go into specifics, obviously, but the temple is so amazing. And my love for Zac grew to an unimaginable level. Being worthy of the temple and the blessings it provides was such an overwhelming feeling. I was crying the moment I stepped into the temple. I left behind my past and stepped into my future, clinging to my testimony of Christ and my love for Zac and my family. :) Finally, I took a sleeping pill and packed up my things and went with all the girls to Karen's house. I got a full body massage from Stephanie, who's a registered message therapist. SO AWESOME. Emily and I talked for a good two hours, enjoying one another's thoughts and impressions. I love her so.

Friday, June 24th- THE WEDDING DAY! I'll just do a chronological list...>< Bear with me...if you're still reading! hahaha :)

7:36 am- Woken up by my beautiful mother who drove over from Marc's house with Tim in tow. I was grumpy and my eyes hurt. :)
8:01 am- Out of the shower, legs shaven, glowing with happiness for the day ahead. :)

8:05 am-9:11 am- Getting my hair moussed, blow-dried, curled, and hair sprayed while playing word games with Julie and mom. :)

9:15 am-9:30 am- Oatmeal and strawberries with whipped cream for breakfast! Yum! :)
9:32 am- Woke up Melissa. :)
9:35 am- Mom drove back to Marc's house to get the waterproof mascara I forgot. ><
9:46 am- Mom hurried through my makeup and I still looked amazing! THANK YOU SO MUCH, MOM!
10:15 am- All the girls in tow with the wedding dress, drove to the temple.

11:10 am- Parked, lugged the wedding dress, duffel bag of clothes, flowers, and makeup case into the temple lobby. Waved goodbye to Emily, Melissa, and Julie.

11:23 am- Met up with Zac, Marc, Paul, Amer, and one of Amer's friends. Zac and I had yet another interview with a temple worker to verify everything with us and the importance of our temple sealing. :):)

11:30 am- Got ready in all my bridal glory. *blush blush* Mom and I were hugging and holding hands the whole time.

12:30 pm- I was sealed for all time and eternity to Zachary Scott Hickman. We made covenants with one another and God in the holy temple.

1:10 pm- Back in the Bride's Room to do some touch ups with makeup and hair for the wedding photos. Mom put yellow roses in my hair and helped me put on my yellow Vans. She also finished making Zac's boutineer and put an adorable ribbon around the bouquet. Packed up everything. Met up with Zac, who looked so handsome in his grey tux and yellow tie.
1:30 pm- Stepped outside the temple for pictures with family and friends. :) Ethan then asked for all friends and family to leave so he could be alone with Zac and me. So many pictures! Wah! Can't wait to see them!

2:15 pm- Traveled back to LA with mom, listening to the new Ludo CD!!! Man, so good.
3:30 pm- Called everyone to head over to Red Robin for a quick wedding party luncheon. So good! I was stressed the whole time, worrying about the ring ceremony at 5:30.
5:00 pm- Zac and I left with Karen to pick up my garter (ahem) which I forgot at Marc's house.
5:20 pm- Finally at the church building for the ring ceremony and reception! We set up chairs and tables outside under the pavilion. IT WAS SO BEAUTIFUL. I was driven across the parking lot so as to keep tradition that "no one" sees the bride before she walks down the aisle. That proved to be difficult. hahaha A crisis suddenly sprung up while I was in my remote location in the parking lot, waiting to be driven over to the pavilion. Mom came rushing over to me, breathless, and told me Zac's wedding ring was lost! I was so scared! hahaha The box was empty and he got it mixed up with my wedding ring box. Anyway, the point is, we found the ring and everything was running smoothly again. Whew.
5:41 pm- Mom drove me over to the pavilion and then walked me down the aisle to my husband. Zac and I then had Shane Hull tell all in attendance how important the temple sealing is and explained the sacredness of the temple. He then asked Zac and I to say a few words with one another and all our friends and family.We then exchanged rings and had a good long kiss. :) Our family and close friends then got up and shared their love for me and Zac with everyone. Not a single eye was dry. Well, except for Ian, who was running around, playing with his toy cars. :)

6:00 pm-Whenever it ended (Time kind of escaped me haha) - RECEPTION TIME! We greeted everyone, said our thank yous, and then our first dance! The Luckiest by Ben Folds.  Daddy/Daughter dance with my little brother. Little Miss Magic by Jimmy Buffet. Zac and I broke the knife during the infamous cake cutting! >< Then we did the garter and bouquet toss. hahaha Zac was super silly while getting the garter. :) And my little sister Julie caught the bouquet! Yay! We also had family pictures taken and then we danced for a good hour. :) Ian even danced!

A perfect day.
And now for some pictars! :D

Missy Cox did such a WONDERFUL job with the cake! Look! Quail and everything!

Listening to friends and family during the ring ceremony :)

Aren't these table decorations just adorable?!

Carefully inspecting the cake...

Yes! Julie caught the bouquet! :D

Zac's little sister, Danielle! So cute!

Mom puts up with me :)

I just love Zac's face in this! :D

Good work, team!

Apparently, I've got a lot on my mind. :/

My Results of Tonight's Apples to Apples Game:
Trustworthy- I sometimes think of myself as anyone's confidante. A constant companion, if you will. However, when I do fall short of other's expectations, it is  that much more painful. :( I am often a people pleaser. Do you ever feel the need to lie to remain trustworthy? I'm not admitting to this thought process, but the question just entered my mind while typing. >< I know that's a sick and twisted perspective. But what about those husbands and wives who've cheated on one another yet keep up the lie of their marriage to seem trustworthy? That's a very sad scenario, I know. But realizing you aren't trustworthy anymore is a sad scenario, too. :( How would you get to being trustworthy again in that situation? Is there any hope? What about in general? How would you get back to being someone anyone could trust? Would you even feel that you could be a trustworthy person again?

Inspirational- I've never really thought of myself as inspirational. Those who've been close with me would possibly disagree with that assessment of myself. They've seen how I've made mistakes and gotten back up and dusted myself off. They've seen me go through hell to prove a heavenly experience is obtainable. They've seen me work hard for a high goal I set for myself. However, they've also seen me stumble over and over again and I know they've probably wondered when I would finally learn my lesson. They've seen me take for granted my blessings and throw them away for immediate gratification. They've seen me procrastinate and the results are only frustration, bitterness, and self-deprecation. Lately, though, I've gotten a few comments concerning my engagement. They've called it "inspirational." :D:D:D I could never be more touched. Honestly, the process Zac and I went through to be who we are today truly is inspirational. :) To hear people say that our relationship makes them want what we have is so moving. I can't believe I am worthy of a man like him. I never thought that I could be so blessed as to have my best friend as my promised. I didn't think it was possible for another person to make me want to be better. And that's true inspiration: To want to be better for others, not for yourself. :)

Magical- hahahaha Oh, how many times I've wanted to be a witch. Harry Potter ftw. If I was on a Quidditch team, they'd probably put me as Seeker, even though I'd be so scared to have that much pressure on me to win the game. >< So on second thought, I'd probably be a Chaser. Just passing the Quaffle like no one's business. :) I wouldn't mind hitting a Bludger every once in a while, though. Man, I think I'd probably rule at Defense Against the Dark Arts. Yeah, that seems a very "Chelsea" class. hahaha Classes I'd see myself struggling with are: Transfiguration, Ancient Runes, and Potions. Transfiguration just sounds very complicated. I think I'd be good at it with a ton of outside class work. Ancient Runes just sounds like a class I would need to take for my Magical profession (maybe?) but one that I'd absolutely loathe. And Potions sounds like (to me) the chemistry/physics equivalent in our world. (I'm just taking a guess ><) hahaha I was so overjoyed when I got a 93 on my Stoichiometry test I took my junior year in high school. In fact, I ran out of the room and hugged the first person I saw in the hallway. I think it was Michaleyn? Maybe it was Smantha? haha I can't remember. >< That was the best I ever did. Most of my tests averaged around 78s-85s. I had a solid B in Chemistry all year long. While I'm on the subject of Harry Potter, I have also often wondered which house I'd be in. Most quizzes I've taken have either told me Hufflepuff or Gryffindor. I fondly think of myself as a Gryffinpuff. Or maybe a Huffindor. hahahahhaa Oh gosh. >< 

Saintly- Hmmm. This adjective is a hard one to analyze without stepping on some toes. >< Let's just leave it as is. Saintly.

Visionary- Hmmm. This is also a difficult one. I've gotten better at balancing between planning ahead and living in the present. Yeah!

Sappy- hahahahahahahahhaa I AM SO SAPPY. APPLES TO APPLES IS SO DEAD ON. I AM VERY EMOTIONAL. I EMOTE.

Boring- I hope I'm boring. I hope I'm the most boring person you ever meet. I hope that I far surpass your expectations on boredom and monotony. :)

Selfish- I am very selfish. Very, very selfish. ><

Frightening- Chelsea turns into a Frightening Chelsea when: A) I haven't gotten enough sleep B) I've been woken up by something else other than my alarm or my own instincts. C) I am hungry D) All of the above. >< (Watch out).

Crazed- Yes. I am. I plan on being that creepy cat lady down the street when I've passed the point of no return. I'll be washing cats in rivers and throwing them at passerbies. Zac will be right along side me, with his pants around his ankles, waving and laughing. We're so eccentric. And crude. ><

Wicked- What a lovely lovely lovely adjective. There's something so mysterious and forbidden about it that makes it that much more desirable. Whenever I see this adjective, I immediately think of Something Wicked This Way Comes, which is an awesome story. Then I think of The Stand by Stephen King. Then I think of The Talisman by Stephen King and Peter Straub. So you see, wickedness needs to exist for righteousness. It also needs to exist to create wonderful characters. It also needs to exist to make girl's hearts go pitter-patter. :) Hopefully I'm no the only girl whose heart goes pitter-patter when a wicked character comes into play. hahahhaha ><

Lastly, I know this is totally random, but here's a picture of the temple I'm getting sealed to my best friend in! :D