pre-Mother's Day date

During the past 6-8 weeks, Jeff and I have maybe had one or two date nights. We have been so busy with vacations, trainings, family, etc. that we just haven't had the opportunities. The previous two weeks it almost felt as if the only time we spent together was while we were sleeping! I have had a lot of fun during the past 6-8 weeks and I appreciate that Jeff is committed to his responsibilities (e.g., work, church, family), but I have missed simply having "Jeff and Alisha" time. It's not the same when we're running to and from to complete tasks or discussing the kids or working on things for the business or even being together but with family. There is something to be said about the necessity of continual courtship in a marriage - of taking time out to be "Jeff and Alisha" and not "mom and dad" or "business owner and assistant" or "bishopric member and Relief Society counselor". I love my husband more than I thought I could ever love a single individual. It is a different, deeper kind of love than a child to a parent or vice versa. He is my best friend, my biggest support, my rock, my eternal love. I was reminded of all that as I sat in the Salt Lake temple. The Temple Square area has always held a special meaning for both of us. This was where we had our first date and this was the area he always brought me to when I would fly in to see him. We have many good memories here so it was only appropriate to take the time to make this date special and go to Salt Lake. We started the date by going to the temple. As we received instruction, I would often glance at Jeff and feel overwhelmed with love. When the session ended, we sat in the Celestial Room holding hands. I couldn't stop the tears from flowing (I partially blame pregnancy hormones). I didn't know how to show or express my love for Jeff. I just kept repeating, "I love you", over and over. I stressed that he just needed to know that. I love him more now than I did on the day we were married. We have had our struggles. We have had our differences. We have had our arguments and disagreements, but he is the one person to whom I go to find peace and safety and love. He truly is the rock that I have leaned on. He is the person who inspires me to keep trying to be a little better. He loves me in spite of me...and I will love him forever.

After we exited the temple, we headed to the Cheesecake Factory for lunch. We both really enjoy this restaurant. I don't think I've ever had something there that I didn't like...especially the cheesecake. 

Once we were both beyond stuffed, we headed back home. It was a cold, rainy day so we didn't walk around the temple grounds very much; however, on our way back to the house, we stopped at Ikea and found the boys some dressers and nightstands for their rooms. Like I mentioned before, the boys have always had "hand-me-down" furniture, but this time they get new dressers and nightstands. It was a great day with my best friend. I was glad we made it a priority to spend the day together, and it was a great start to the Mother's Day weekend. I cherish these moments!