if I didn't have you..

Hi guys. Look at me showing up two days in a row. I think I'm starting to get back into the swing of things 'round here. I can't say the same for next week because I'll be buried in boxes and busy unpacking our new place, but I can't say that I'm bummed about that. The boyfriend and I are pretty darn excited to get moved in there. I was thinking today that we're lucky DJ's work schedule worked out with our moving schedule. I honestly don't know what I would do if he had to work while we had to move in. I mean, there's no way I could move the couches and bed and all that big shiz into the new place without the help of those big strong man arms of his. And then I got to thinking even more....there are a lot of things I couldn't do without him. All of the mushy gushy I can't live without you stuff aside, life would definitely be much more difficult if I didn't have that man. Needless to say, I'm glad he's around, and I'm glad he's mine. This one's for you, love!

If I didn't have you, I would never have clean clothes because I refuse to go into the haunted basement alone, which is where the washing machine is.

If I didn't have you, I would probably be fat. This guy has been so good about working out and eating healthy guys, I'm so proud of him. And so of course he has motivated me to go too, and I'm starting to feel better and less...gross.

If I didn't have you, I wouldn't be able to open my water bottle when I take it out of the freezer! We don't have an ice cube tray, so I've been filling up my water bottle and sticking it in the freezer. Well, when I take it out it's impossible to open. Cue those big strong man arms, please.

If I didn't have you, I probably wouldn't have anything to blog about.

If I didn't have you, I would've never gotten that can open last night because I don't know how to use a can opener...oops.

If I didn't have you, I would've probably spent $500 at Target by now. Thanks for always making sure I don't go too crazy in there.

If I didn't have you, I wouldn't have listened to All of Me and that makes me sad because I really love that song.

If I didn't have you, I wouldn't be so motivated to do my schoolwork. Hearing you talk about school and our futures and how proud you are of me really motivates me and makes me want to do well.


If I didn't have you, I wouldn't know about all of the cool things you share with me that you read on Forbes.

If I didn't have you, I never would've found out that almond butter is way too expensive and not very tasty.

If I didn't have you, my heart wouldn't be half as happy as you make it.

If I didn't have you, I don't think I would ever know that it was possible to miss someone as much as I miss you when you're gone.

If I didn't have you, my life just wouldn't be the same. You make everything better. You provide for me, love me, take care of me. You help me, motivate me, and you inspire me. I admire everything about you and I can't imagine my life without you. I'm the luckiest girl.

Thanks for not thinking I'm crazy, I love you.

happy birthday!

Hi loves! Do you know what today is? Yes, it's Wednesday, but not just any Wednesday. Today is my handsome man's birthday!! Yep that's right, DJ turns 23 today! I'm wishing more than anything I could be there with him on this day. At least next year, and every year after that, I'll be with him for his birthday! Which is so exciting to me. But what else could I talk about on a special day like this? Nothing, really.

It's crazy to me that we've almost been together for a year and a half. It's almost been an entire year since I visited him in Germany, and it's the second birthday he is celebrating since we've been together. Where has the time gone? We've accomplished so much and grown so much as a couple this year. Sometimes it just amazes me that we even ended up together. The guy that used to come to my birthday parties. The guy that used to beg me to play with my cash register, and I wouldn't let him.

The guy who tried to steal my Barbie backpack!

The past year I've honestly been happier than ever before. He treats me like a princess and makes me feel so special. Not a day goes by that I don't feel loved. I know that he would do anything for me, and that's such an amazing feeling! It makes my heart so happy that I get to start my forever with him this year. Eight months and I will be done with school, packing up my car, and heading up north to Montana. Eight months until I never have to say goodbye to him for more than a few days again. Eight months and our long distance relationship will be no more. I can't wait.

He's such an amazing man. I mean sure, everyone says that about their boyfriend. But I've really never met anyone like him. I'm so unbelievably proud of him, and I'm so proud to call him mine. He's so mature, kind, and smart. He makes me laugh and he loves me like I never thought I could be loved. He's handsome, he's a gentleman, and he's so easy to talk to. He's my best friend. I am honestly so lucky that I'm in love with my best friend (thanks Jason Mraz). I hope everyone gets to experience a love like we have at some point. Every girl deserves to be treated like a princess.

Sometimes I'm crazy. Sometimes I'm a mess. I stress out about my future and even about school right now. Sometimes I want to quit. No matter what I'm going through, he's there for me. When I'm upset about something, all I need is to hear him tell me it'll be okay. When I'm freaking out about graduating and going to grad school, he assures me that I can do it. He never lets me forget that I'm capable of doing anything I want. He supports me, encourages me, and he believes in me. What more could I ask for?

I think about my life with him and my heart gets so happy. We have so much to look forward to together and I can't wait to share it all with him. Getting married, buying our first home, getting our puppy! It's all so exciting. I couldn't imagine doing all of that with anyone else. I can't wait to spend my life loving him.

I'm so lucky.

Happy Birthday DJ! I love you with all my heart!

how NOT to break up with someone

Breaking up with someone is clearly never an easy thing to do. But I mean if he's not floatin' your boat anymore somethings got to be done, right? Sometimes it seems as if there's no easy way to do it. Which it totally true, but there are some ways that are definitely worse than others. Personally, I've never been dumped in a manner that was too strange or cruel, but I know some people who have, and there are definitely plenty of ways not to break up with someone. Clearly, if any of these have happened to you, he wasn't worth it.

// a text message // 
Oh boy...story time! My best friend and I were at a restaurant one night and she thought the bus boy was cute. So naturally I left her number on the receipt, but we didn't really expect him to call. The next morning we were in my pool getting our tan on and her phone rang. It was him. Let's call him "Asshole." (you'll see why). Anyway, Asshole took her on a couple of dates and I'm pretty sure they were all pretty awkward. Oh, and let me go back and say that the very first etext he ever sent her was "Are you DTF?" NO. That's when we should've known. She wasn't that into him, but when they were at a red light and he asked her to be his girlfriend, she felt bad saying no and just said yes. So really this whole thing is probably her fault but still. So fast forward like a week. We were at SeaWorld. They were texting and he was talking to her about doing things that were not so appropriate for the blog. When she told him she wasn't going to do that with him, he replied, "Well it was fun hangin lmao xD" THAT WAS HIS BREAKUP TEXT. Does she know how to pick em or what?

// through a friend //
I guess this one's okay if you're in third grade. I get it- you're afraid to break the news to your not so special someone, but c'mon. It's never okay to have your friend break up with your girlfriend/boyfriend for you. It's hard enough getting dumped, let alone not being able to actually hear it from the person breaking up with you. Also, if you ever are the messenger and agree to break up with someone for a friend, you're an idiot.

// by doing absolutely nothing //
Ignoring people is rude in general. Especially if you're in a relationship with them. Cutting off communication might seem like an easy way out, but seriously who would do that? If I were in a relationship with a guy who just stopped talking to me, I'm pretty sure I'd freak out and think he was dead. So that would be fun.

// in a big group of people //
One thing I never understood is why people would talk about about their boyfriend or girlfriend to others or post it on social media. Sure, if you need to vent to a friend about some issues, that's one thing. But airing your relationship drama to the public is not only inconsiderate, but it's embarrassing for you and your significant other. Same goes with breaking up. If you're going to leave someone, don't do it publicly. Don't do it when they're around their friends. It should be something private where you can talk it out and not embarrass them.

// by changing your relationship status //
This one kills me. Do people really do this? I think its pretty obvious that changing your relationship status on Facebook is not a significant way to end a relationship with someone.

// on a holiday //
This one's the worst because it's so easily preventable. I know plenty of people who have been dumped on their birthday or on Christmas. Like honestly, if you're going to break up with someone thats usually a decision that you make in more than one day. I don't understand the problem with waiting one extra day and letting them enjoy their holiday. Its cruel! No one wants to get dumped on Valentine's Day.

What's the worst way you've broken up with someone? Or been broken up with?

drinkin beer and wastin bullets

The week before I headed up north to nearly Canada to visit that hunk of a boyfriend of mine, he and his bestie went out to the national forest and went shooting & mudding. Typical Montana style guy fun. Since then, we'd been planning to go when I was there. So like the first day I was there we headed to DJs favorite store ever, Scheels, to buy him a brand new shotgun. He's like a kid in a candy store in there, I swear! I did find a pink 9mm that I might have to get eventually, but really I was just there for moral support. So we took his brand new scary looking gun home, got some hotdogs and the heavenly ingredients that make up s'mores and packed the truck to head out the next morning. 

We woke up EARLY (and by early I mean 7 am) and hopped in the truck. The truck we had just washed the day before- hint: it didnt stay clean for very long. The national forest is about an hour away, right past Monarch where we almost got stranded last time. 

When we got out there, it was COLD. Like really cold and windy. Luckily I had my trusty pink North Face to keep me a little warm. We hit some mud on the way there which was so fun. We started shooting at cans and bottles and I'm basically a pro. A pro at not hitting anything. I did destroy this Sprite can, though. 

Then we decided it was time for some hotdogs. We tried to light a fire but the wind kept putting it out before it was big enough. So we tried again. And again. And again. No luck. We ended up shooting off the rest of our rounds and taking some gangsta pictures before we headed to another spot. 

We hit some more mud and show and it was seriously so fun. Dj's whole truck was falling apart though- the dashboard is broken and pieces we're flying everywhere, the visor above my head kept falling and hitting me, my coffee kept spilling, but yolo it was so fun. We also got stuck a few times. 

At one of the spots we stopped to "play" in the muddy snow, Dj let me drive. We'd been doing donuts and going crazy in that spot for a good half hour, and I figured it couldn't be too hard. Well, I drove about ten feet and we were stuck. So that was fun. Once we got pulled out of that, we stopped at a few more places and kept trying to light fires, but the wind was so bad everywhere we went. So Dj and I made s'mores without the marshmallow- basically a chocolate and graham cracker sandwich. Oh and I polished off a whole bag of hot Cheetos. Typical. We had smores for breakfast Tuesday though, so it's okay.

In all, it was a good day. Even though we didn't get to roast hotdogs or marshmallows, I almost froze to death, and I had to pee outside, it was still fun. I'm so excited to head back out there this summer when it's not so cold and a little more green! :)

Do you like the outdoors? Or are you more of an indoorsy person?

the surprise

Well, as many of you know from my tweets leading up to the big day, I surprised handsome in Montana a day early. He got home from work Thursday and thought he was picking me up at the airport Friday morning, but really I was already there Thursday when he got home. I'm sneaky, I know. :)

The plan was to have his roommate pick me up at 12:30 when I landed, and he would get home a couple hours later. I flew from Phoenix to Salt Lake City with a 40 minute layover which was a terrible idea, because 49 minutes is barely enough time to get across the airport + board. And of course my luck the gate I arrived at and the gate I departed from we're at opposite ends of the airport, typical. 

After running to my second flight and getting on the plane, my nerves started to settle in. What if he figured it out? What if he wasn't surprised? I figured he'd call me when he got to his truck (like he always does) and instead of saying he was on his way home he'd say he was going to the store or to run errands or something. Not that that would be terrible, I just figured that the one time I wanted him to hurry home he'd have a bunch of stuff to do! 

But when I landed in great falls and turned my phone off of airplane mode (by the way they let you use your phone the whole time now- you don't have to put it away during landing and take off) I had a text from him. He said he was going to be home in about 15 minutes. And I was still on the plane. Cool. I really wanted to beat him home, and luckily I did. But barely. 

When we got to the house I ran to the bathroom to get some mouthwash and before I could even get my breath minty fresh I heard his big loud truck pulling i to the driveway. At this point I was so damn nervous I was shaking and shit. Chelsea and I we're watching out the window waiting for the perfect moment for me to run out there. As he was walking down the sidewalk to the house I ran out and yelled "hey handsome!" And I could tell he was so confused at first. It was awesome. He just smiled and was so surprised and I ran up to him and jumped into his arms. It was perfect! Best part- I didn't even trip when I was running to him. Which is a big deal, you know?

I couldn't have asked for a better trip. It was short, but we still had an amazing time. I'm thinking I'll dedicate the next few posts to my Montana adventures, so stay tuned!

Have you ever surprised a loved one? How'd it go??

five out of seven

Five out of seven. We've said goodbye five times. We've had five terribly hard goodbyes in airports in two different states, two different countries. Each one is just as hard, but we've gotten better about not dragging them out. Our goodbye after the summer in Germany was the worst. We sat in that airport for a good hour crying. Since then it's gotten shorter and shorter every time. We try to "rip the bandaid off" and just get it over with, because sitting there crying and dragging out doesn't make it any easier. But I'm sitting on the plane as I write this, with a big smile on my face because of what DJ said to me before I walked through security. 

Five out of seven. We only have two more goodbyes. One after I spend this summer with him, and one after I go visit next October. After that last goodbye, we never have to be apart again. We've spent the last year and a half missing each other on and off for months at a time, but in nine short months it'll all be over. It sounds like forever away right now, but I know that December will be here before I know it and I'll finally get to be with my best friend every day for the rest of my life. Plus, three of those months I will be with him, so we really only have to spend six months apart. Ever. 

It's such a crazy feeling to know that THIS YEAR I graduate college and move to be with him. We've been talking a lot about our plans. Where I'll try to work, if he'll be getting out of the military, where we want to live. We're approaching such an exciting point in our journey together and it makes my heart so happy to think about that!

Being in a long distance relationship is so tough, and I can't wait to be done with that BS. But I honestly wouldn't trade it for anything. I'm so happy that we started our relationship long distance. Those five heart wrenching goodbyes reminded us that we don't want to be away from each other, and that we shouldn't take our time together for granted. Every sweet hello reminds us how exciting love can be. Every day we got to spend together was special, and I truly believe that once we're together every day, well always remember the times when we longed to be together and be grateful for what we have. 

Two more goodbyes and my life will change forever, and it couldn't come fast enough.

what makes my relationship work

Whenever I post about relationships around here, I really try to emphasize the fact that all relationships are different. I mentioned in this post that I've learned not to compare my relationship to others, and I believe it honestly makes a huge difference in your happiness. Every couple has their own dynamic, their own traditions, their own style of showing affection. I don't think that there is a "right" way and "wrong" way to do most things in a relationship. Sure, cheating is clearly wrong, and showing someone you care about them surely is the right thing to do, but there really isn't a set way to do things regarding most aspects of a relationship. I get quite a few emails asking for relationship "advice" and asking what makes our relationship work, so I thought I would just share a little more about the dynamics of my relationship. Its probably nothing you haven't heard, but yolo.

We're the kind of couple that shares everything. We talk about our feelings. We talk about poop. We literally can talk about anything and everything. We talk pretty much all day long, and we keep each other updated on what were doing, who were with, and all of that jazz. Not in a controlling way by any means though, were just always texting and talking about what we're doing and stuff. I think that this really helps with our trust. I never have to worry about where he's at or what he's doing. If one of us is going somewhere where we won't be able to talk for a while, we tell each other. Its nice knowing that no matter what he's doing, he's thinking about me.

We're the kind of couple that does all of the cheesy crap. We "argue" over who loves the other more, we send long texts before bed about how much we love each other, we send each other care packages, we talk about how amazing our future together is going to be, we talk about what we're going to name our kids. That might make some of you want to throw up, and I don't blame you, but it works for us. We're not together right now, so thinking about the future when we are together brings us happiness. All of the cheesy texts and things we do help us remind each other how much we care, since we can't do that in person every day.

We're the kind of couple that enjoys doing nothing. When we're together, we have fun being at home. We can lay around all day watching movies and doing nothing, and it can still be the best day ever. We go walk around places, go out to eat, see movies, and all of that fun stuff too, but we're perfectly content just enjoying each other's company. It's so nice to have someone you can relax with and that you can have fun doing boring things with, you know? We can have fun cleaning or grocery shopping or doing laundry!

We're the kind of couple that makes fun of each other. He has a HUGE forehead, and I love making fun of him for it. He teases me right back! He's my best friend. We can be silly and pick on each other and goof around, and I love that.  I'm not a very serious person, and neither is he, but we can also be serious when we need to be.

We support each other, put each other's wants and needs before our own, we communicate and trust each other, and we have fun together. We love each other wholeheartedly and we never let each other forget it. We just get each other. I know that I'm so lucky that I have such an amazing man in my life, but its not all luck. We work together to make our relationship what it is. I'm not saying that all relationships should be like ours, but what we have works for us. Really the only advice I have on the matter is to find whatever works for you as a couple. There is no secret formula to a successful relationship. If you're happiest when you're out doing things, then go out! If you're happy at home, spend your nights together with some Netflix. If you love the hopeless romantic cheesy shit, stay home, make a romantic candlelit meal ,and slow dance in the kitchen!

What makes your relationship work?

what I learned from being in a relationship

Well, you all know that I'm in a serious relationship. If you don't know that, get wit it because it's basically all I talk about. It was the reason I started this blog, it's my inspiration for most of my posts, and it's the one thing in my life that brings me pure happiness. Dj and I have a pretty mature relationship I'd say, and over the course of this past year, I've learned so much. I've learned from both being in a serious relationship and from my handsome man himself.

You can't compare your relationship to others
This is something I've struggled with personally for a long time, and I've mentioned that a few times before around here. But I think that it also applies to relationships. I've never compared my relationship with Dj to others' in a negative way, but I've been around people who have, and I've seen what this can do to relationships. Every relationship dynamic is different, and people's happiness can't be defined by comparing it to the happiness of others.

Sometimes you have to do things you don't want to do
Relationships are compromise. Sometimes I have to watch Sports Center and sometimes Dj gets stuck watching Say Yes to the Dress marathons. But that's love, right? I think that this is something a lot of people forget. As relationships grow and you get comfortable around someone, it's not uncommon to become a little selfish. I've experiences it before in past relationships, and I've seen it happen to people around me. I think that it's so important to keep in mind that sometimes you have to put your wants aside and do something for the sake of your loved one's happiness.

Communication is more important than you think
Seriously. A lack of communication can be a relationship killer. Being in this relationship with Dj I've learned that talking about things is absolutely the best way to deal with any issues that arise. Whenever I'm feeling down, have concerns, or I'm not happy about something, I tell him. He always makes me feel better and we always work things out by talking through it. We never really fight because we handle our disagreements really well. Especially being in a long distance relationship, we've gotten really good at communicating.

You should never have to settle
I've mentioned before that I was in a pretty bad relationship all of high school. I was treated like crap, and looking back I have no clue why I put up with it. I thought he was the best I could have, because I didn't realize that there are guys out there that would treat me with respect. I think that today there is this idea that chivalry is completely dead and that men do not know how to treat women. But I can assure you that that's not true. Dj is an amazing man, and he treats me like a girl should be treated. He's a gentleman, he's respectful, and he loves and takes care of me every day. He made me realize that settling for something less than you deserve should never be an option, because there are people out there that are worth it.

The little things matter
I think this is a huge one. Whether its surprising each other, helping with the boring stuff like laundry, complementing each other, or just showing each other affection, it all makes such a difference. I never really realized this until I started dating DJ. He always does things for me, and shows me how much he loves me. I honestly get so happy from the smallest things he says/does, and I know that I'm so lucky. You don't realize how much those things matter until you see how a relationship can suffer without them. It's hard being in a long distance relationship to show someone how much you care everyday, but I'm honestly so lucky that Dj and I never stop doing those little things to show each other that we care.

What have you learned from your relationship?

happy valentine's day!

Happy Valentine's Day loves! I'm sure 99% of you know this, and are probably tired of hearing it, but I thought that since today is V-Day that I would share mine and handsome's love story again. I've shared the full thing once in this post, but it was when I first started blogging and its kind of a mess.

If you visit my 'love' page, you'll find the quickest possible version of our love story:

But there's not real background info there. Mine and Dj's moms have been besties forever. Obviously, when you're 5, if your mom has a friend, her kids are your friends too. So, Dj and I used to play together when we were younger. Here's a picture of us at my birthday party way back when and then now!

So anyway, as we got older, we lost touch. I remember running into him my freshman year (his senior year) at a track meet and barely acknowledging him while he and my mom talked. Oops ;) And when my mom asked if I wanted to go to graduation party, I thought she was crazy for even thinking I might want to go..I mean, I hadn't talked to him in years.

Fast forward four years to my freshman year of college. I'm friends with his mom and sister on Facebook and I was doing some casual stalking when his name popped up. So of course my stalking went from casual to excessive and creepy and I stalked him pretty hardcore. I told my mom that he was hot but I didn't think he would remember me. So what does my mom do? Messages him and tells him what I just said. Thanks mom....but really. So I added him, and I was sitting on my couch with my best friend (we were home on Thanksgiving break) when he messaged me. I think I shit my pants because I was so excited that he sent me a message. 

Well, we've talked every day since that first message and I'm seriously the luckiest girl in the world. We talked for a couple months before we hung out in person, because he was in Germany and wasn't coming home until January. But basically right from the start we knew we had something special.

He's made this past year the most amazing year of my life! I got to spend the summer in Germany with him and we've done so many fun things together. Our love has grown so incredibly much its amazing. On Wednesday I got my Valentine's package from him, which you might've seen on Instagram filled with a bunch of candy I shouldn't eat, homemade brownies, and then some special stuff like the journal we send back and forth and write to each other in. I wish I could spend today with him, but I guess a Skype date will have to do!

Should we start counting how many times I've told this story on the blog? Probably too many, but what else would I talk about on Valentine's Day? I'm off to dinner and wine with the roomies tonight, but I hope you all have a very special holiday with a very special someone!

i love valentine's day

Hi, I'm Brianna and I love Valentine's Day. Like, I really love it. Sometimes I'm afraid to admit that because I feel like it's a pretty controversial holiday. You hardly read posts or hear people talk about how much they dread Christmas, but around this time of year I always hear people complain about how they're not looking forward to V-Day. But I look forward to it for months.

Of course, I love being in a relationship on Valentine's Day. I love getting cheesy packages together for Handsome. I love the sweet exchange of "Happy Valentine's" words we say to each other. I love that its all about being cheesy, sappy, and romantic because I really eat that shit up. But that's not what makes February 14 one of my favorite days of the year. Besides, I can't be with the man I love anyway, so I don't really get to celebrate it in that way. But still, I really love Valentine's Day.

For one thing, it gives you an excuse to eat chocolate. Especially if you're alone, right? Like come on, who expects me to walk into the grocery store filled with pink boxes of chocolate and not come home with some? I eat chocolate all day every day, not just around Valentines, but I feel like this time of year I have a legitimate (kind of) excuse. Plus, the day after everything is half price...jackpot.

Along with that, I use it as an excuse to cheat on my diet. Every year on Valentine's Day I go out to dinner with my friends who are single/in a long distance relationship. We're going to this amazing Italian restaurant this year and I already know what I'm going to have. Cheesy garlic bread, my favorite pasta, and a pizza cookie. I normally can't have any of that (because I can't have dairy or gluten) so I use the fact that I'm "alone" on Valentine's Day as an excuse to eat whatever I want. Yolo.

But really, fat girl status aside, I think Valentine's Day is beautiful. If you couldn't tell by now, I really love love. I think that we should show each other how much we love each other every single day, not just one day a year, but I also think that Valentine's Day can be really good for a relationship. Going all out and doing something special and unique for the day can really open up opportunities to connect with someone. We get so caught up in day-to-day life and we're so busy all the time, so I think its perfectly fine to have one day out of the year dedicated to showing someone how much you love them.

It makes me sad that so many people are against Valentine's Day, really. I understand that if you're not in a relationship it can be a little pointless, but it is a holiday. Even if you don't have a boyfriend or husband to spend it with, you can still make the best of it by going out with the girls rather than being bitter about it. At least that's what I do. Besides, how can you not love a holiday whose "color" is pink??

I'm really bummed I can't be with Handsome this year for Valentine's Day, but I did send him a little package with some candy and a video game he's been wanting. Oh, and some conversation hearts, but these ones are from Spencers had some not so G-Rated things written on them...yolo.

I feel like this post kind of when in a different direction than I had originally intended, but whatevz I do what I want. My point is, I think that whether you're single or not, Valentine's Day is about love. I understand that we should show each other love and appreciation all year round, but spending one day going out of your way to show someone you love them, how can that be a bad thing?

How do you feel about Valentine's Day?

my dream guy

The other night, my roommates and I were talking about what qualities the "perfect guy" for us would possess. It's something I'm pretty sure all girls talk about in like eighth grade, but we had so much fun coming up with a list of qualities a mile long. From the obvious things like he has to shower, to the super nit picky things that my roommate said like, "he has to take care of me but not be pushy about it- like, he has to let me be independent sometimes." 

Now, you all know I'm obsessed with Handsome. I've found my perfect guy, and I love everything about him. He pretty much embodies (most) of the things on here, but I didn't make this list based on him. I'm just lucky that I found a guy that fits my list pretty well ;) 

So, my dream guy...

+ is romantic. I am a hopeless romantic for sure. I love anything overly cheesy and disgustingly lovey dovey. I want flowers, nice dinners, watching the sunrise and all that crap, you know? I mean yeah I love staying home watching TV and ordering in pizza (or maybe something with a little less cheese), but every once and a while a nice romantic gesture is always appreciated.

+ dresses well. I used to not care about what a guy wore. But as I've gotten older (aka I'm not in high school anymore), it really bothers me when all a guy wears is a T-shirt and basketball shorts. I mean, if were just lounging around the house or even just going to run an errand, it's whatever. But if we're going to a movie, or the mall, dinner, or anywhere out together in public, he has to look nice. At least nice jeans and a clean shirt, right? Oh, and he has to wear a watch. Watches are sexy. 

+ loves country music. That's a given. If we don't have the same taste in music, only bad things can happen. It leads to arguments over who gets to pick the music you play in the car, you can't go to concerts together, and all that shit. I'm obsessed with music, and all I listen to is country, so this one's important to me. Maybe he doesn't have to love it, but he has to be willing to listen to it at the very least!

+ is a gentleman. Guys these days are rude. I need a man that will hold doors for me, open the car door for me (I didn't realize guys did that, but handsome does for me every time and I love it), he has to pay when we go out (or at least offer to pay), and complement me. I know, that sounds so stuck up and conceited. But were talking about a fictional perfect guy here, and don't tell me that's not ideal.

+ is stable. He has to be going somewhere with his life. If he doesn't have a job, he better be in school. If he's not in school, he better have a job that will take him somewhere. If I'm going to have a future with someone, they have to be able to help support us.

+ makes me laugh. I like to laugh. I like a funny guy. I think that's pretty self explanatory. He also has to think I'm funny. Well, because I am.

Remember when I said that Handsome fits (most) of these? Well, as I was writing this I realized that he fits it all. Shit, I'm one lucky girl! It wouldn't be a post about the perfect guy without a picture of us, right? 

This picture's perfect for this post. You know why? Because we're wearing Krispy Kreme hats. It's perfect because if there wasn't a perfect guy out there for me, I'd probably marry a donut.

never let anyone tell you that what you feel isn't real

People can be so quick to judge each other's relationships. I'm not saying that I haven't been guilty of this in the past, but ever since I started talking to Handsome, my perspective has changed a little.

Like I've mentioned a million times, Handsome and I began talking online. After communicating over the phone for a few months, we knew we had something special before we even hung out in person. Once we finally got to be together, I knew he was it for me. Yeah, we'd been talking for only a few months, and yes we only got to hang out a few times over the course of one month, but I knew. He was the first man that I'd ever had feelings that strong for. I thought I knew what love was before I met him, but he made me realize that what I felt before wasn't even close to the real thing. Of course I shared this with my friends- who doesn't love to talk about their current love interest? But they didn't necessarily understand. They didn't understand how I could already (possibly) love him after only being with him a few times. They thought I was jumping in too quickly. Maybe I was, but I just knew.  I couldn't tell them enough. I know that he's special. I know that he's not going to hurt me. I know that we can make it as a couple even though were across the world from each other.

Of course, my friends thought they knew better than I did. They still didn't believe that what I felt was real. They couldn't believe that I could fall for someone so fast. They judged my relationship. It hurt me. I felt like I couldn't talk about it with them. I felt secure in my relationship- shouldn't that be enough for them? I understand they were concerned, and they didn't want me to get hurt. But not having that support from your friends, or even having "support," but knowing that their judging you, is hard. Especially when they're your only support system. I didn't have Handsome there. I was away from the man I loved, and I needed that support from my friends. But I didn't ask for it because I didn't want to be judged.

When I was going to spend the summer with Handsome in Germany, people still doubted us. I was beyond excited to go spend two months with the man I loved in an amazing place I'd always dreamed of going. But everyone told me to "be careful" because we'd never spent that much time together before. They told me to "be ready in case things don't work out." They asked me what I would do if I wanted to come home early, if I was sure I was ready to spend that much time with him. When I was so exited to go to Europe and be with the man I fell in love with, all they could focus on was the negative. I just wanted them to be happy for me, but it seemed like they couldn't. It was almost like we had to "prove ourselves." We had to prove that what we felt was real by spending that time together and making it through. Which we did.

It's been over a year now, and I can happily say that I don't feel my friends judge my relationship anymore. At least not in the same ways. They know that Handsome is special and that what we have is real. Sure, sometimes they make fun of me because we're "cheesy," but that's okay. I love doing the overly romantic cheesy things. We argue over who loves each other more, we call each other just to say "I love you," we talk about the big things in our future like they're happening now. My friends might make judge me for it, but it's what keeps our relationship special. We never stop the little things. I never stop gushing over how perfect he is. He never stops telling me how beautiful I am. We don't take each other for granted. 

They can judge me, but I know that I'll never judge someone else's relationship again.  I used to think a girl was crazy if she got back with a guy that cheated on her. I used to think that the dynamic between certain people's relationship was "weird," and I used to be the one to judge people. I think we all do at some point. But I've learned that every relationship is different. If the girl that got cheated on trusts him, really trusts him, then who am I to think otherwise? If a couple's dynamic isn't "normal," who am I to say that they're not going to last? 

I'm glad that the way Handsome and I "met" wasn't typical. The path that our relationship has taken has been far from normal. Others may not understand it, but it has made our relationship so strong. I no longer care what other's think. If they want to judge us, let them. I'm happy, he's happy, and that's all that matters to me.

the bright side to long distance

I think its safe to say that its not secret around here that I'm in a long distance relationship. But if you're new (welcome) or if you've been living under a rock or something: I'm in a long distance relationship. Sometimes it really sucks and I complain about it. I mean, who wouldn't, right? But in the spirit of staying positive I want to share with you some reasons that long distance relationships don't suck.

you appreciate each other a little more. I'm not saying that if you're together all the time you don't appreciate each other, don't get me wrong. But being away from each other eight months out of the year makes you realize how much someone means to you. It makes you cherish your time together and not take the little things for granted. Being in a long distance relationship ended up building such a strong foundation for my relationship with Handsome.

it keeps things interesting, exciting, and fun. Living away from your significant other means you get to travel a lot. Traveling is fun. I got to go all the way to Europe to visit my sexy hunk of a manfriend. And now I'm in Montana where its snowy and cold and you can't go outside without your nipples waking up to say hello. Even better, when you're together you always get to do something fun. When you're only together a few months a year you don't spend your time together sitting around doing nothing. Well, Handsome and I do but I feel like most people do fun stuff. We might go snowboarding tomorrow so that'll be interesting. Lastly, you have to be creative. Its hard to show someone you love them when you never see them, so you have to think of creative ways to express your love!

i don't have to shave my legs. Self explanatory.

the anticipation. Every time we say goodbye, I immediately start a countdown until the next time I'll see him again. Sometimes that sucks (when the countdown is at like 60 days) but once it gets close, it's so exciting to see that number start going down. We always have something to look forward to. Then, when that beautiful day is finally here, we have the sweetest reunions. I love airports. I love walking off the place and freaking out hoping I look okay. I love the butterflies I get in my stomach. I love turning the corner and seeing his handsome smiling face for the first time in months. I love the way kissing him for the first time in months feels. The thought of it makes me so excited to come back already again! Airports can also be the devil though because that's also where we say our goodbyes. Which I'm not looking forward to on Monday. But hey Brianna THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE A POSITIVE POST. Sorry.

we get "me time." Some people that see their boyfriend every day only see their boyfriend every day. They neglect time with their friends, and they neglect time to focus on themselves. I am 100% totally completely one of those people. And I'm okay with that. But I know that I need to focus on school and myself, so sometimes its good I don't see him every day. I would literally skip class every day if he was here. Yolo.

Well, there you have it. Being away from the one you love sucks but sometimes its not that bad.

Don't forget to check out my new sponsorship options and my new design site!

him vs her

Hi! Brianna and Dj here reporting from Montana where ITS NOT SNOWING. Like c'mon Montana, what is this shiz. I brought so many cute winter clothes and its not even cold enough for my North Face jacket. I live in 70 degree weather year-round...I at least wanted a white Christmas! I've been a little unmotivated in the bloggy business lately, at least with writing posts. I did do some designs recently I'm really excited about. Go see Rachael and Tabitha's new looks! Other than that, I've spent the last few days sitting on my butt watching football and eating food that I shouldn't be eating because what else is there to do? At least handsome is home and I'm not stuck in his house with the haunted basement all alone.

Anyway, I found this cute little idea on Ashley's blog and I had to do it! Also, if you don't know Ashley, go say hi because she's amazing and her and her hubby are too cute! Here's a fun little 'get to know you' game with Handsome and me!

Shoes

Dj: Vans all the way!!
Brianna: Either flip flops or boots...mostly my new red Hunter boots! :)

Drink/Beverage

Dj: Fierce Melon Gatorade!

Brianna: Dr. Pepper!

Ice Cream Flavor

Dj: Vanilla

Brianna: Chocolate or cookies and cream!

Color

Dj: Red

Brianna: Pink!

Candy

Dj: Reeses

Brianna: Chocolate with caramel!

Music

Dj: R&B

Brianna: Country :)

Go to outfit

Dj: Dark denim and a v-neck

Brianna: Leggings and a v-neck or big sweater!

Restaurant

Dj: (He asked me what his favorite restaurant is hehe) Spinato's

Brianna: In-N-Out...does that count as a restaurant??

Movie

Dj: Remember the Titans

Brianna: Bridesmaids!

Food

Dj: I like pizza...In-N-Out burger...Chipotle burritos. Basically anything that tastes good.

Brianna: In-N-Out or Chipotle!

Item You Can't Live Without

Dj: You! Awh :)

Brianna: Him :)

TV Show

Dj: How I Met Your Mother.

Brianna: One Tree Hill! 

Wake up time (M-F)

Dj: If I'm at work...5. If not, 11.

Brianna: Around 10.

Way to relax

Dj: Call of Duty or working out.

Brianna: Blogging, designing, reading, or spending time with him.

Vacation Spot

Dj: Carlsbad or any place with a beach!

Brianna: Europe :)

Holiday

Dj: Christmas

Brianna: Christmas

Sports

Dj: Football!!

Brianna: I don't really have a favorite sport!

Memory together

Dj: Spending the summer in Europe together

Brianna: Europe! :)

Well, there you have it! Feel free to grab your man and do this yourself!!

you know he's a keeper when...

I think its such an amazing thing to fall in love with your best friend. I'm so incredibly lucky that I've found the man that makes me the happiest and loves me unconditionally, and I'm so lucky that he's honestly my best best friend. It's only been a year since Dj and I have been together, but I already know I'm spending forever with him. He's definitely a keeper. How do I know? Because he's my best friend.

You have fun doing extremely boring things together. When you're with him, even grocery shopping or cleaning the house and folding laundry becomes fun. No one likes laundry- Handsome and I both really hate it. He leaves his clothes in the dryer for like two weeks because he doesn't want to fold them. But when we're doing it together it's really not so bad. I mean how could you not have fun when you're having a shirt folding competition or throwing socks at your boyfriend right?

You have fun doing absolutely nothing together. If you can spend a whole day just sitting around the house doing nothing together, but before you go to bed you think, "Today was a good day," then you know you've got a keeper. If you're in a relationship with your best friend, you shouldn't feel the need to always go out. I love going on dates, don't get me wrong- but I think it's important to be able to stay in and enjoy each other's company, too.

You can fart in front of him. I mean, c'mon, everyone farts. If you can fart in front of him and he's cool about it, then you're good.

You can make fun of him. Handsome has a big forehead. He makes fun of my fingers because they're really long. We love to joke around and make fun of each other. If you're always serious and you don't have a playful side when you're with your significant other- where's the fun in that?! If he teases you, and you can tease right back then I think you're in for a very happy relationship.

You can tell him anything. Whether its something funny that happened, the latest drama, or a good grade on a test, Handsome is always the first to know. I mean sure, he probably gets tired of hearing me talk about all of the girly gossip around here, but he's my best friend! Who else am I going to tell?! It's also really important to be able to tell each other how you feel. If you're uneasy about something, tell him. If he genuinely cares about the way you're feeling, and takes your concerns into consideration- he's a keeper. It's so important that you both can express the way you feel and don't have to hold anything back!

They sometimes suffer for your pleasure. That sounded weird. But here's what I'm trying to say: if he's really the one for you, sometime's he will do things that he doesn't want to do just to make you happy. Maybe it's watching Bridesmaids with you way too much or letting you drag him around the mall for hours. If you have a guy that will do literally anything for you (maybe even let you paint his nails once..hehe) then he's a keeper for sure. And yes, I make Handsome do all of that probably more than I should..

And then of course there are the obvious one's like he makes you feel good about yourself, he's a gentleman, he surprises you sometimes, and he's trustworthy, and all that good stuff. But hey, if you've got a man that fits most of this, ball and chain that shiz right now because he's definitely a keeper!

timing is everything

As another semester flies by, I can't help but think about timing. It's crazy that this semester is over already. I feel like I just moved into my apartment. I still remember my first day of classes- and now I have two days of classes left. It amazes me that this little blog has been around for almost four months now, and most importantly, I can't believe it's been a year since Handsome walked into my life. I remember this time last year, and how infatuated I was with him. I hadn't seen him in person yet, but we'd be talking non-stop for a while and I knew that something good was going to come out of it.

I knew he was a special guy, but if timing hadn't been on our side, I don't think we would be together right now. We began talking in November. He was coming home in January. We talked for about two months before we actually got to spend time together. Within those two months, we learned so much about each other, and I already felt like he knew me better than anyone. He already had a special place in my heart, even though I hadn't been with him. Some people might think I'm crazy for feeling that way, but hey- look how things turned out! 

Anyway, I've been thinking about how lucky we are that he was able to come home in January. I think that there would've been a limit to how long we would've talked without seeing each other. If he hadn't come home in January, I likely wouldn't have gone to Europe, because I mean, who would go across the world to see someone they haven't seen since they were 7...right? The next time he came home was in September. There's no way that we would've talked from November until the next September without seeing each other, at least I don't think we would've.

Basically, I feel very blessed that we started talking when we did and that he got to come home in January. We have such an amazing relationship, and it's crazy that if timing wasn't on our side, we might not be together. It's just another reason that I believe everything happens for a reason. I'm truly so lucky that we get to see each other every 2-3 months, and now that he's back in the states, it's so much easier (and cheaper) to visit. Time is flying by (which is good when were apart), I just hope that when I'm in Montana with him it slows down a little!