In a special blessing I received when I was fifteen years old, (you can read more about them here) I was promised that one day I would marry in the temple and share with my husband many things, the first being unity. I'll keep the rest private, but I always thought that unity was such a peculiar word to use, (and frankly was maybe hoping for something a little bit more romantic sounding at the time) - that is until years later, I read the following definition:

u·ni·ty

ˈyo͞onədē/

Unity: Integrity: an undivided or unbroken completeness or totality with nothing wanting.

Isn't that beautiful? I've loved the word ever since.

Now, with that being said, I won't pretend that everything has been roses and cherry blossoms these last five years. I know blogs can get a bad rap for being too glossy and sweet and shiny. Marriage has taken a lot of learning and growth and sacrifice which has included plenty of tears and disagreements and frustration. However, it has truly brought me more happiness than I could have ever imagined, and has been the most beautiful five years of my life, this last year especially. There is no one else on earth I would rather share unity with than with my high school sweetheart and Laurie Lawrence, Max Bingham. I love you forever.

a few more family pictures

These were the first professional pictures Max and I had taken since our wedding. This is 100% because of the fact I am the least photogenic human being that has ever lived. However, Jessica Janae Photography was amazing, and I'd recommend anyone to them in a heart beat. Also, look no further than Sundance for your next photo shoot location. Sometimes I forget how beautiful Utah really is. And last but not least, these pictures make my heart melt for a million and one reasons, but mostly because of that little blonde haired, blue eyed boy. I really don't know if there is a happier baby on earth, or anything on earth that could make me happier. I feel so blessed.

fathers day

Max can be described in a lot of ways. He's really funny and really smart. Like, extremely, unbelievably smart. Max is kind. My grandpa says Max is the kind of person whose never met a stranger. He's personable and inviting. Someone also once said that Max is the kind of person who can find happiness in a mud puddle. And it's true, he's the eternal optimist and is always looking for the best in any situation and in everyone around him. And he's cute. I love his round cheeks and his cheerful countenance and the freckles he gets in the summer.

I fell in love with Max years ago for all of the above and more, but something new I've witnessed and love with all my heart is the way Max has taken on the role of dad. I could go on and on about it. He fell in love with Charlie as fast and as hard as I did. The moment he walks in the door from work or school, Charlie will turn his head and smile his gummy smile because he knows just like I do, Max loves him like crazy. Max is so many things to me, but he's been the most incredible father, and I love him more than ever for it.