Our Wedding Day {July 10th, 2015}

(This will be updated when we get the pictures back!)

This was by far the best day of our lives so far. I can say that because Jose told me it was his and it was definitely mine. It all started out with a brunch in the morning for just our families. It began a bit late and was missing a lot of family because Jose’s cousin had a medical emergency and had to go to the hospital (she ended up being okay). Even after that late start, we enjoyed a nice breakfast and each of our dads gave a little speech, with Jose translating for both families. It was a nice start to the day and gave everyone a chance to be on time to our sealing.

Jose and I went to the temple together, and were sealed to each other for all eternity just after 1:00. I cannot express how incredible I felt during that temple ceremony. The spirit and the love was so strong I could not stop smiling. I am so grateful to Heavenly Father for the plan he has laid out for us; the plan that allows us the opportunity to be together forever as a family. I am also grateful that Jose is a worthy priesthood holder who was worthy to enter the temple and make those covenants with me.

That night we had a party I will never forget! We had tons of food, family, friends, and dancing! I was almost overwhelmed with the amount of people who showed up to celebrate with us. We had a blast visit friends and family, and there were a few guests that were extra special. People we hadn’t seen in a while. Like for me, it was my Uncle Theron, Aunt Jen, and Uncle Gary, and my grandma Adele. They each traveled a long way to be there. I wish I had more time to visit each of them, but I was so happy to see them there. For Jose, there was a lot of family that flew in from New York and I know he was so happy to have them there, but also his mission president made a surprise appearance. That meant a lot to Jose to have President and Sister Palmer come see us.

Thanks to everyone who came, and especially those who traveled a long way to be there. We love and appreciate everyone who came to celebrate with us! Thank you for being a part of our best day!

Jose saw {the dress}

Last Monday, Jose and I went up to Tibble Fork in American Fork canyon to take bridal pictures (which we will display at the reception). But up to that point, Jose had not seen my dress. I wanted to photograph him seeing it for the first time and it could not have been better!

I loved this moment and am so glad I was able to capture it and keep it forever. I am so excited to be sealed to Jose in just 4 days!  

P.S. We have the best photographer! Thanks Ashlee!

Independence Day {Traditions}

Pretty much my favorite holiday is Independence Day. I love getting dressed up in red, white and blue, and going out to the various activities that happen this time of year. So of course, this year I got to take my fiancé to experience all the traditions I have come to love!

First off, Lehi Round-up week. This always falls the week before the fourth, so it's a perfect kickoff to the holiday. On Friday evening, we headed to main street for Lucky's snow cones, and found a nice spot on the grass to enjoy the kids parade. Then we headed to the rodeo grounds and picked up some burgers before the rodeo started. Lehi's rodeo has the BEST BURGERS EVER! Jose ate 4 because he liked them so much (and they aren't very big). We had a great time at the rodeo together and I loved sharing my favorite part of life in Lehi with Jose.

Another favorite part of this holiday for me is my neighborhood's annual block party. We spent a few hours the night before baking blue cupcakes to take. We enjoyed music, food, fireworks, and friends! My little niece came and, my goodness, that girl has a crush on Jose! She hugged him probably 20 times and kept telling him she loved him, and even asked for my seat so she could sit next to him! They were so cute playing together!

On the 4th, we plan to go enjoy the Thanksgiving Point fireworks, which is actually a new thing for me. I have gone only once before and it was a while ago. Normally I spend this week volunteering for Stadium of Fire and enjoying the show, but I decided it would probably be too much to do with the wedding coming next week.

So while we have enjoyed some old traditions, we are also thinking about all the new traditions we will be enjoying in our life together and with our future family.

Just a Few {Engagement} Photos

A few weeks ago Jose and I got all dressed up for our engagement photos. It was almost a bad day because the hour before we took them it was pouring rain. But once the photographer arrived at the cutest old barn in Mapleton, the clouds just looked amazing. We even included Korah in a few pictures. Enjoy a taste of our favorites from that day! 

Heather & Jose {Our Love Story}

This year has been the most surprising, incredible year of my life. A guy who was just a friend suddenly became much more than that. On January 30th, I felt something change in our "just friends" relationship, and on February 3rd I listened as Jose told me he wants to start a relationship, but only if it is serious and the goal is the temple. As crazy as that sounds, I said yes. I wanted a relationship with him, and so we started dating.

We soon spent nearly every day together. It was better that way. When Jose went away for a few days for work, his absence was painful. I missed him. I knew then that living without him was not an option. I prayed for guidance in our relationship, because I knew he wanted marriage and I was afraid that if we dated any longer and we weren't going to go to the temple together, I would have to break his heart. I got my answer, I knew then that we would be married.

In March, me, Jose, and some friends took a trip to San Diego for my 22nd birthday! We had a great time and I was thrilled to be with Jose all day with no work or stress. It was during this trip that Jose and I talked about marriage seriously. We came back from that trip knowing that we were going to get married.

It took a few weeks for Jose to get the perfect ring, but once he did, he had talked to my parents and we were so eager to tell everyone that we were officially engaged. On April 16th Jose got down on one knee, and asked me to be his wife. I said yes. It was a beautiful moment for just us to enjoy. Two days later we announced the engagement.

I could not be happier with the man Heavenly Father led to me. He is kind, chivalrous, patient, and loving. He is a worthy priesthood holder. He is a wonderful uncle and will be an amazing father. He has an incredible testimony. He is my best friend. I am so honored to be able to call him mine, and I am so excited to be sealed to him for time and all eternity. I love you Jose.