michelle + ellie

2012-01-23T10:43:00.000-08:00

Ryan always knows how to cure my Monday blues.......

The card is the best part;)

People Water

2012-01-19T11:46:00.001-08:00

My weekend in pictures! - D.C. Style

2012-01-16T14:46:00.000-08:00

My dad, Ryan & I took a quick trip back east to Virginia to go to my brother Russell and his new wife, Jana's 2nd wedding reception. Jana is from Virginia, so it was fun hanging out with her family and getting to know them better. I was so happy that Ryan came out with us-- he sure was the life of the party! Jana's family loved him....they kept asking me why I ever broke his heart in the 9th grade. ;)

It was freeeeeezing in D.C.---to say the least-- but we managed to make it to some memorials.
Here we are at the Vietnam memorial. Me, Ry, Russ, and Jana

Me & my babe at the Lincoln memorial--

An attempt to take a heel-click pic. Didn't work out too well..... ha

I love this man!

We stopped by Georgetown for a few hours....and I may have found my dream place to live. Seriously, this place is TOO CUTE! I almost started crying when I saw all the amazing shopping stores in adorable little houses. Ryan was teasing me for almost shedding a tear when I saw an Anthropologie in a cute little blue house. hahaha I definitely was in my element.

Lee loved all of the old (and new & expensive;) cars that were in Georgetown!

One of my favorite stops: the famous Georgetown Cupcake! The cutest little bakery. A picture outside of the shop was enough for me, because I didn't want to wait in the line that was all the way down the street, just to get a pricey little cupcake. I thought about it for a second though......... ;)

We visited the beautiful D.C. temple. It is one of my favorite temples in the country! I love the architecture.

Hope you all had a great weekend!

health kick

2012-01-10T13:01:00.000-08:00

After a trip to Mexico where I mostly consumed tacos, pina coladas, and treats, I felt like I needed to start eating healthier. I did the Master Cleanse last year, and well, it just about killed me. I can't go that long without eating food! So, I am resorting to a different cleanse where I can still eat regularly, then I just take pills and drink a nasty powder drink after dinner. Not so bad, eh? I started the cleanse last night, and I must say that I am excited for the next 10 days! Weird, I know....but lately I haven't had any energy and haven't been sleeping well, and I think it is because I am not eating well.

So why not start off a healthy diet with a cleanse!

I chose the Garden of Life Perfect Cleanse.

Along with the cleanse, I have been wanting to eat healthier. This cleanse says that you can keep eating what you normally eat, but I normally eat lots of sugar and processed foods, SO.....that would sort of defeat the purpose;)

I went shopping last night and got stuff to make a green smoothie every morning for my breakfast. If you haven't tried a green smoothie, you might think that I am crazy for wanting to drink a spinach smoothie for my breakfast. But I promise you, these things are YUMMY! And super duper healthy for you. There are many different recipes out there, but I like this one the best.

Ingredients:

1/2 of a banana

1/2 cup pineapple coconut juice

1/2 cup mangoes or peaches....or both!

A generous, big handful of spinach (about 3 oz)

You can also add a handful of kale leaves if you want- I did and it was yummy!

1 cup of ice

A cute straw to make the smoothie more luxurious to drink:)

Put the liquid in the blender first, then add the rest of the ingredients. The blender will be full!

Blend well and enjoy.

I promise you this smoothie is yummy!! If it weren't for the green color, I think sometimes I would forget that there is spinach in it:)

For lunch today, I decided to make something light because that smoothie was really filling, and I made it pretty late in the morning-

A caprese salad is one of my favorites!

Roma tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, fresh mozzerella, ad balsamic vinegar drizzled over the top.

Perfection!!

Snacking through-out the day consists of peanut butter and celery sticks and munching on carrots.

Then I will just eat a normal dinner that won't make me feel like all of my hard work for the day is ruined.

It's weird, I feel really full in my belly today and full of energy!

Now the trick is to stick with eating healthier...at least till after the wedding ;)

Let me know what you think if you try the smoothie!

Our week in Cabo!

2012-01-09T13:07:00.000-08:00

We had a blast in Mexico with the Cope family! It was Ellie's first time out of the country, AND her first time to a beach! She slowly warmed up to the beach, and ended up loving playing in the sand. Going in the ocean--not so much :) But she became a little fishy in the swimming pool! We are excited to get that girl in some swim lessons.

The view from the backyard. Perfection!

Ellie swimming with Bella. She loved the pool!

The view from the upstairs balcony. ahhhh I wanted to stay in Mexico forever!

Ellie made sand "cakes" rather than sand castles. ha

Ellie and Momma enjoying the beach and warm weather!

Ryan's sister, Noelle got baptized while we were down there! It was a beautiful baptism and we were lucky to be a part of it.

Me and my soon-to-be hubby!!

My two loves....

Sunsets were stunning

We had a blast! We feel so blessed to have the Cope's in our lives. Ellie loves the girls, boys, and Mimi & Papa. :) We didn't want to come home to the cold weather.....but the second we did, Ellie was excited to put on her hat & gloves and go outside.

Home Sweet Home.

P.S. 59 days, 1 hour, 30 minutes till I get married!! but who's counting?..

my Christmas weekend

2011-12-30T11:02:00.000-08:00

Christmas weekend was great! Once the stressful, last-minute-running-around ended, Ryan and I settled down at the Cope's for Christmas Eve.

Here are the handsome Cope boys in their matching pjs, helping out with Christmas eve dinner. Steak and Crab--YUM. They don't mess around! (ps. they don't look like brothers at ALL...)

Sleepy-eyed morning pic of me and my babe!

Ellie got cute pj's that matched the girls- She had so much fun finding all the fruit snacks and suckers in her stocking from Santa!

Ellie got her first pet! A fish named "Fishy" (Ellie named it) She diligently feeds her every morning:)

Ellie was hilarious this Christmas. She was very serious when she was opening her presents, and she kept making her "mad face". I think it resembles Blue Steel. ha

Ellie got a play kitchen from her Aunt and Uncle, and she loves to make mommy ice cream cones!

My first Christmas with Ryan was amazing! He made it so special, and I am so grateful for him.

He made me a magnetic photo board with pictures from us in junior high, as well as recent pictures of us- it was the best gift Ever!!

This week has been very exciting for the Duncan Family. We welcomed a new sister-in-law, Jana to our family! I can't believe my twin brother got hitched! So happy for them.

Ellie smelling "Princess Jana's" flowers

my bff

Cousins Cody and Ellie are always so cute together!

loooong day for my two loves -

And some other exciting Duncan news.....is that my brother and sister-in-law Gina are having their first baby, and it's a girl!!! We couldn't be happier for them.

I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful family, and future family. I am grateful for this holiday season and for all that I have. I hope you all had a very merry Christmas, and hope you have a safe, Happy New Year!!

I am off to Cabo with Ellie and the Copes--

Adios Amigos!

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-26T15:47:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a fabulous Christmas! I am still recovering from all the hussle and bussle of the holiday weekend, so I will post pictures of the big day later this week. Until then, I will share some pics of the soon-to-be-Mr.& Mrs. Cope at our Christmas Carousal party. There is nothing better than being cheesy with your man in killer Christmas attire.

wedding!

2011-12-16T14:21:00.000-08:00

Now that I am done with finals, (WOOO!) I can finally start thinking about wedding plans.

I can't WAIT to be married to the man of my dreams!

Just some ideas from my wedding Pinterest board:

Finals week

2011-12-10T09:08:00.000-08:00

I will be buried in my textbooks this weekend to study for my upcoming finals.

And I may or may not come out alive....... Wish me luck.

DIY Glitter Magazine Christmas Trees

2011-12-08T13:32:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it?! I am FINALLY getting around to crafting again! I haven't done anything crafty since the summer....School has been completely consuming me. But I remember seeing this tutorial last year on how to make Martha Stewart's Magazine Christmas Trees, and I made it a goal to make them for this Christmas.

Goal met. woot. If only I could do that with my fitness goal.....

All you need is:
-a magazine or book (you choose the size)
-Spray adhesive
-glitter
-or glitter spray adhesive (all in one can)

Fold the magazine like the tutorial shows, then you can either spray adhesive all over the tree, then sprinkle glitter over it. (make sure to do this outside because it's messy!) Or, most craft stores sell a glitter adhesive spray that you could use too. I decided that I wanted my glitter to be bolder than the glitter that was in the video tutorial, so I bought glitter that wasn't so fine, that had bigger specks, if that makes sense. And I love how it turned out! I also like the more fine glitter, because then you see more of the magazine paper. It just depends on the look you want. But I wanted to make mine the most sparkly that I could get them! :)

I made some extra trees to add some holiday spice to the office too!

...

Watch a video tutorial on how to make them here.

My Christmas wish list

2011-12-06T14:49:00.000-08:00

Me and my expensive taste like to dream about the christmas list that I would have if I could....

A girl can dream, right? ;)

Anything faux fur! Vest, jacket, blanket... I'm obsessed!

These sparkly bow flats

This rose gold watch

Leopard printed Hobo wallet? Goodness gracious.

Black Frye Boots. Sigh...

This Kate Spade Leopard iPhone case

A night away from the baby to see This movie

This sequin skirt....and maybe an invitation to a holiday party so that I have an excuse to wear it??

This whole outfit from Madewell.....and everything else from that store, for that matter.

This Marc Jacobs bag

Or This Alexander Wang Black Rocco bag. mmmmm....

What's on your Christmas list??

Lindsey's Look Book

2011-12-05T15:46:00.000-08:00

My bestie Lindsey just started her own fashion blog and it is thheeeee best! She gives fashion tips & advice and she recently did a post about wedding dresses to help me find the perfect dress!

Head on over to Lindsey's Look Book and give her some love!--

Lindsey herself. Isn't she gorgeous?

Check out her blog HERE

My ring

2011-11-30T11:11:00.000-08:00

I finally got my ring back and a few people have been wanting me to post pictures of it. I changed it up a little bit, and I really love the way it turned out.

Here is the "Before" picture without my mom's diamond in it: (this is a CZ they put in until it was finished)

I really wanted to use the diamond from my mother's old ring because 1) it's stunning! 2) it's sentimental 3) Why wouldn't I use it? That means we don't need to pay for a diamond! ;)

So, I had them make a custom crown that was identical to the first crown that held the CZ, but just make it proportional to the size of my mom's diamond because hers was bigger than the CZ. I got it back, and I just didn't love it. It was too bulky and big, and I wanted it to look more delicate and simple. I am usually not a picky person, but I figured it was okay to be picky in this case because I will be wearing it every day for the rest of my life!

So, I decided to change the crown to 4 prongs instead of 6, and get rid of the basket completely because I think that's what was making it look bulky and big. I LOVE the results! It is much more simple and I love how you can see the shape of the diamond whereas before it was covered by the basket.

Better, right? I love it! (if you couldn't tell)

And I love that it was my mother's diamond. It means so much to me!

Mug Shot.

2011-11-29T14:04:00.000-08:00

I took my little Ellie Mae in today to get her passport picture taken and she was so funny about it! She took out her binky and gave the photographer a blank stare, then smiled right after he took it. Too funny!
We are SO excited to go to Cabo with the Cope family for New Year's!! This will be Ellie's first time out of the country AND her first time to the beach. WOOT WOOT. It will be the perfect little getaway before my next semester of hell starts. Did I just say that?.....

Doesn't she look so cute and innocent? Don't be fooled, people ;)

wedding dress for sale

2011-11-28T21:14:00.000-08:00

I am selling my old wedding dress! The description on the site does a better job than I can. --
Maggie Sottero "Ireland" dress
One-piece, ivory, slim-line gown with a zipper over inner lace-up closure. This Gossamer Chiffon gown offers the look of Grecian beauty with its billowing baby-doll silhouette. An elaborate beaded band at the empire waistline intensifies the vertically ruched bodice.You can read more about the details HERE.

I absolutely loved this dress! It was SO so comfortable and pretty and reminded me of a greek goddess style dress. I had straps added to it, but they can easily be taken off by a tailor if you don't want them. With the inner lace-up closure inside the dress, it can be tightened to fit a size 4, or you can tie it more loose to fit a size 8. The dress is very forgiving and loose/flowy around the waist so it can fit a range of size 4-8. (I wore it when I was 8 months pregnant, but I still fit in to it now because it is flowy around the mid section! I originally bought it for $1,000 and I am selling it for $600. BUT... I bet you could talk me down a little if you're interested;) It is dry cleaned and ready to go!

Email me if you are interested! Michelleleeann@gmail.com

Terrible Two's?

2011-11-28T19:16:00.000-08:00

Ellie is in the prime of her toddler stage and boy, is she full of EXTREMES! She is either sweet and happy and the most adorable little thing you've ever seen, or she is throwing a tantrum in the middle of the restaurant and screaming at the top of her lungs to try and get what she wants. So, I am slowly learning to deal with the terrible two's stage. Some of her not-so-good qualities right now are hitting momma, whining and not using her words, and not eating food and only wanting "candy". SO FRUSTRATING! ha But... she does have some adorable qualities right now such as; talking like a big girl (I love that I can have a conversation with her now! Even if it is about Hello kitty or chocolate milk;), telling mommy when she needs a diaper change, singing and dancing, and helping mommy clean. (even if it means dumping a whole box of cereal on the floor just to say, "I clean it up?")

Sometimes I want to rip my hair out.....and other times I want her to never grow up and always be her cute toddler self. Because god knows I am NOT looking forward to that day when she is asking me for a cell phone or telling me she has a boyfriend. With that being said.... I am trying my best to enjoy EVERY moment of every day and trying to not stress about the tube of toothpaste that is squirted all over my floor or the sleepless nights I get or the permanent marker on my sheets...

JUST BREATHE MICHELLE.

It's moments like this that make all the bad stuff go away.....at least for a little while ;)

Ellie hugs are the best!

My Thanksgiving weekend in pictures

2011-11-27T09:18:00.000-08:00

Hope you all had a fabulous and feastful Thanksgiving weekend! Ellie & I spent ours with the Cope family up in Salt Lake. We had so much fun swimming at the hotel, eating the best pepper steak i've ever had at Market Street, riding the "Wonka elevator" at the Library, going to the Discovery museum, looking at all the lights at Temple Square, and finishing the night off with a horse carriage ride around downtown. What a long list! We are definitely spoiled by the Copes!!

riding the wonka elevator

Ryan teaching Ellie some spanish:)

cuddle sesh

Discovery Museum

Temple Square..
umm is this not the cutest picture ever?

I love my cute lil family:)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T10:53:00.000-08:00

I am thankful for many things today! A warm home, a loving daughter, an amazing family, my job, my education, the bestest friends, and especially my man! Ryan is the best thing since sliced bread and I can't express enough how thoughtful, respectful, selfless, and humble he is. Not to mention that he is ridiculously good looking ;) I am so thankful that he is in my life!

He surprised me by leaving a present and a bunch of tiny pieces of papers with a letter on one side and a number on the other. It took me a good hour to unscramble it and put the message in order, but it was so worth it;) He is too good to me!

MMmmmm... Flower Bomb perfume !

My lovely assistant

I hope you all have a very Happy Thanksgiving day! I am thankful for you all.

cute 'Thankful' video

2011-11-22T12:49:00.000-08:00

I am so doing this with my future kids. LOVE it!

Randomness!

2011-11-22T12:37:00.000-08:00

Things have been a little crazy 'round here...With Thanksgiving coming up, wedding planning, Christmas gifts to buy, Preparing for finals week, work, and keeping up with my active Ellie Mae, I definitely have my hands full!

Ellie is still making the best faces ever, so I thought I would showcase some of them.

Last week I went up to the City to see my favorite cousin, Bella perform in her school play, The Tempest! She did GREAT! Bella is a sixth grader this year, but she looks like she could be in high school. Do you agree?? She is BEAUTIFUL and I just adore her. Look out, Junior high!

So.. I was talking to my dad last night about wedding stuff and we got on the topic of buying a dress for me. He made a sarcastic comment about me wearing my mom's dress so I didn't have to buy one and I said, "Do you even know where her dress is?" and he told me it has been upstairs this WHOLE time and I didn't even know! So naturally, I ran upstairs and just had to try it on for fun and do some twirls in it. It fit like a glove too! ha But my mother looked a lot more stunning in it than I ever could :)

Let the wedding dress shopping begin!

Music Monday

2011-11-21T09:31:00.000-08:00

Quite possibly the cutest song in the world! Happy Monday :)

A coupon for you!

2011-11-16T11:45:00.000-08:00

I had the amazing opportunity to be part of a photoshoot for

3B Yoga and Athletic Boutique!

This is where I practice yoga and buy my activewear at. Their Athletic Boutique carries the best brands!-- Lululemon, Om Girl, Prana, Hardtail, Spiritual Gangster, Manduka, Bronwen Jewelry, Sanuk, and much more. Plus, they have sweet stuff for guys too!

I am excited to be giving away a coupon to 3B Yoga and Athletic Boutique for
25% off any boutique item!
Go check them out at the Shops at Riverwoods and get yourself or your significant other some awesome activewear. This coupon lasts until December 31, 2011 so head on over there to get your Christmas shopping done early! And don't forget to bring this coupon with you.

          The clothes, accessories, and jewelry from this photoshoot are all available at the Boutique!
            All photos taken by the lovely and talented Kiera Haddock. Isn't she AMAZING?
                                                            Check her out HERE.

Kelsey Hannon and Jessica Holmes are rocking it at some partner yoga!
All clothes pictured are available in the Boutique.

Don't miss out on this limited time offer, people!

laughs

2011-11-14T22:41:00.001-08:00

I love it when my girl laughs! It melts my heart :)

Music Monday

2011-11-14T14:13:00.000-08:00

This may or may not be how I am feeling today... :)

Ellie's sidekicks

2011-11-13T08:44:00.000-08:00

Ellie and I found one of my old baby dolls and she is in love with it! She is totally into the doll and stuffed animal stage and HAS to have one everywhere she goes. She takes them on walks and bike rides, feeds them snacks, teaches them how to play the piano, and even changes their diapers! I am in love with age 2. And did I mention that she is talking SO much lately?!

Her new phrases are, "Hey guys!" and "that's funny!"

Oh, how I love her:)

Happiest day of my life!!!

2011-11-09T15:06:00.000-08:00

He did it! Ryan proposed to me last night!!! wwooooooo!!!!! I am still in complete SHOCK. I was not expecting a proposal for at least a few months! Just our ordinary Tuesday routine of dinner and a movie, he took me up to this yummy mexican restaurant in Midway, then the cottage to "watch Modern Family" when I opened the door to this:

and that was only one part of the cottage! The entire room was filled with beautiful flowers and candles. Then he proposed!! I was not expecting it at ALL, so it was so fun to be totally surprised-- Then he told me that the cottage will be our first home to live in. aaahhhhhh! I am the luckiest girl in the WORLD!!!!

I love my ring! Simple, yellow gold, and just how I like it:) In about a week or two, this center diamond will be replaced with my mother's diamond from her ring. And I can't wait to see what it will look like! I will post pics when I get it back. Isn't it perfect??

I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with the man of my dreams! Ryan is truly amazing to both me and Ellie, and I couldn't be happier. And did I mention that I have the most handsome fiance ever?!?

(I can't stop saying that.)

Music Monday

2011-11-07T15:54:00.000-08:00

Check out more about Brandon HERE. He is so inspiring!

Happiness is..

2011-11-05T00:57:00.000-07:00

Going on a brisk morning walk with my little lady and her baby doll, of course.

Yay for beanie weather!

Finding little "I love you because_____" notes all around my house in hidden places....

I gave up looking for all fifty... I'm one lucky girl!

Seeing this girl SMILE! It melts my heart.

obsessed.

2011-11-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

R&M from the archives

2011-11-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

Ryan & I at Lagoon day in 9th grade! I love these pics

Ryan is the hidden super hero in the middle:) and i'm the brunette pink lady on the right, if you can't tell.

This is my all time favorite picture of us! Field trip, chess club shirt, homemade leather choker necklace, Abercrombie camo pants, his killer specs, and of course, Alec in the background. haha

must-have home accessories

2011-11-01T16:01:00.000-07:00

I loved this post on Made By Girl from Drew.

I don't normally do this..

2011-11-01T13:21:00.000-07:00

I am the kind of person who over analyzes just about everything and just tries to be extra careful with my words. I always want to try and be mindful of others feelings while at the same time, not be misunderstood. With that being said, there are just a couple more points that I wanted to make regarding my Gratitude post.

I have re-read it a few times and for some reason felt that I made it sound like all of the people that I used to associate myself with were negative influences in my life. Which is completely not true! In the past five years, I have met some amazing people and am so grateful for them in my life. Just because we may not do the same things anymore, doesn't mean that I don't love them and that I feel as though I am better than them in any way, or more happy than them.

The way I see life is simply like this: Life is about finding your true happiness, right? Happiness isn't always the same for everyone. Whether people have different tastes in music, have different religious beliefs, drink, don't drink, vegetarians, or meat eaters, gay, straight, get married in a religious temple, or in a backyard, you name it. If whatever you do makes you happy, helps you be a better person to those around you, encourages you to be an honest and trustworthy individual, and fills your heart with gratitude, then that's all that matters! I try very hard to not be a judgemental person and I try to love everyone for who they are and what they believe. I have plenty of friends who are very happy in their lives and they may not have the same beliefs as me, but that doesn't matter!

I guess what I am trying to say is that even though I don't hang out with some of the old people that I used to, and I am taking a different path to find my happiness, doesn't mean that I don't care for the people that I used to associate with, and it doesn't mean that they aren't happy just because we are on different paths. I just realized that I feel the most happy living my life the way that I was raised. That's all. I feel so blessed to know all of the people that I met in the recent years of my life! I am still the same person as i've always been and like I said, I am the happiest right now going back to my old roots of the LDS church. But I am definitely not a perfect mormon! I crave chai tea on a daily basis, I have my ears double pierced, I am not looking forward to wearing garments. at all:), I have a hard time reading my scriptures, and many more imperfections. But I am just taking things one step at a time and just focusing on doing the right things in order to result in everlasting happiness.

I love you all for who you are! and I am very grateful for everyone who has played a part in my life.

Wendy & Peter hair accessories

2011-11-01T11:11:00.000-07:00

Wendy & Peter accessories are so cute! I just wanted to share them with you because I love their stuff so much. Their Etsy shop has really fun baby hair clips and headbands for all ages. I bought this black and white striped headband for Ellie at the last Bijou Market, and I may or may not wear it at least once a week.... Yes, me and my toddler share headbands. Don't judge me ;) They are so fun and cute and did I mention that they are only $10?

Check out their Etsy shop HERE

My weekend in pictures

2011-10-31T14:46:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a lovely weekend!

DATE NIGHT! Ryan's friend Jesse and his fiance Sam went with us to get pedicures!
It was the boys first time being pampered with a pedi, and they said that it was definitely worth risking their manhood for;)

Although, it was a bit ticklish at times for Ryan..... hahaha

We are loving the weather right now! Not too cold, not too hot. Perfect for some Ryan & Ellie time on the trampoline :)

wwweeeeeeeeeee!

Ellie spent her actual birthday night with her dad, so last night we had cake & ice cream with the fam at our house. Ellie got lots of cute stuff from her Aunts and Uncles!

We lit two lanterns for Ellie's 2nd birthday and let them go in the sky. She loved them, but was sad when she realized they weren't coming back. ha

Getting ready for Halloween!

I was a complete flake of a mom when it came to Halloween this year.... between school and work, I just totally spaced a costume for Ellie. whoopsies! So, an hour before her halloween program at daycare, I pulled together a little cat/tiger/whatever-it-is costume for Ellie. It works, right? I am definitely going to redeem myself next year.... pinky promise. But I still think she looks adorable. :)

Then for trick or treating, we made last minute super hero costumes. Most people didn't know what we were, but oh well. ha trick or treating with Ellie was seriously the BEST this year! She was totally into it. Isn't Ellie the cutest lil super hero you've ever seen?!

Hope you all had a safe and fun Halloween!

gratitude

2011-10-28T15:28:00.000-07:00

I have been posting a lot of pictures lately and not so much writing. I am going to try my best to not overload you with cheesy happiness, but I may or may not be able to resist. :)

I have had an overwhelming feeling of joy in my life lately, and I wanted to share a few thoughts with you!

I have been through ups and downs, trials and triumphs, and made more mistakes in my 23 years of life that I can even count.. but I am grateful for them. Every single one of them. I can't tell you enough how much I believe in the saying, "Everything happens for a reason". I now know that I definitely would not be where I am right now if I hadn't had gone through what I have. In the past few months, I have been surrounding myself with positive people and I have been making healthy choices, and taking care of my body--and the difference it has been making in my life is night and day! It feels SO good to be able to love myself again and realize how I want to live my life and how I deserve to be treated. I don't mean that in an arrogant way, I just have realized that everyone deserves to be happy and to be treated like royalty. I look back on the last 5 years of my life and see a lot of wasted time and mistakes and negative influences, and it makes me sad to think that it took me so long to realize what truly makes me happy. But that's ok! Because that is what life is about. I think a lot of the time, people try and impress others and change themselves to make others happy, or even to try and make yourself happier. I was very much this person for wwaayyy too long.

I was lucky enough to have found someone who brought me back to reality, who knew me before I lost myself, and who helped me realize my inner beauty. I don't know how I got so lucky, and I will forever be grateful for him! But along with help from him, I was determined to change my outlook on life on my own and change my inner thinking that has been engraved in my head for so long. I think the first step that I took came from something that my old boss said to me and it has stuck with me. She said, "Life is what you make it" and she explained that life is to be enjoyed not endured. At one point in my life, I took a step back and realized that I was living life only to endure it, and just trying to get through each day. That just makes me sick to think about! Life is for us to grow and learn, but most importantly to be happy and love ourselves and others, and to ENJOY every moment! Once I realized this, I started to make a change. It was not easy for me. I gave up a lot of my old habits and ridded my life of negative things/people who were bringing me down. Life should be filled with positive people who lift you up and bring out the best in you and who love you unconditionally. And life is about making choices that better you as a person.

Another thing that I needed to learn was to love myself. Because of trials in my past, I didn't have self confidence or felt any self worth. I went to therapy after therapy, and it helped. But the thing that helped me the most, has been surrounding myself with genuine people who want the best for me and who treat me with respect and love. Then I automatically saw that it is possible to be treated like a queen and that no one should have to settle with being treated any other way. I even got discouraged at times because I felt that since I had made so many mistakes, I didn't really deserve to be treated the best. That is TOTALLY false, people!! Everyone makes mistakes and that is what life is all about is learning from them and becoming better people from those mistakes. That is why it is so important to surround yourself with people who love you unconditionally. Those people will stand by your side no matter what and help your through any trial that you may have. I am truly grateful for those people in my life.

I want to share with you an article that someone sent to me. I absolutely loved it.

It is "Ten things you should be able to say before you die"

1. I followed my heart and intuition

2. I said what I needed to say

3. I did what I needed to do

4. I made a difference

5. I know what true love is

6. I am happy and grateful

7. I am proud of myself

8. I became the best version of myself

9. I forgave those who hurt me

10. I have no regrets

Read it HERE

I LOVED this article! It talks about taking action, and being productive, being true to yourself, and how gratitude=happiness.

My favorite part was in #5, and I just want to quote a part of it.

"Finding a companion or a friend isn’t about trying to transform yourself into the perfect image of what you think they want. It’s about being exactly who you are and then finding someone who appreciates that. Love is beautiful and unpredictable. The best thing you can do is to start to become the most outstanding person possible. The universe will know when you are ready, and when you are, true love will happen, unexpectedly."

I highly recommend everyone reading this article! I know that I still have a long ways to go to be able to say all of these about myself, but I don't expect myself to be able to yet. That's what life is about:) All I know is that I am on the path to be able to be the best version of myself, and to be able to live my life the way I want to live it.

I am so blessed to have Ryan in my life right now, someone who I look up to and who makes me want to be that better version of myself. He is trustworthy, positive, smart, funny, respectful, non-judgemental, and most of all-- he loves me for me! He knows all of my past, and I can be myself around him and he will always love me. I feel truly blessed to have him in my life.

I am grateful to have such an amazing family and amazing friends. I am grateful for meditation and being able to take time to relax and think about all of my blessings. I am grateful for the power of positive thinking. I am grateful for Ellie and for her warm hugs. I am grateful for my father for his example and for the way he treated my mother. I am grateful for the examples of my older brothers. And most importantly, I am grateful for the opportunity to feel clean and happy again. Everyone can feel happiness. It is just up to you! :)

P.S. This lovely surprise left on my desk may or may not have helped me with my positive attitude today;)

Happy 2nd Birthday, Ellie!

2011-10-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

Today is my little munchkin's 2nd birthday! I can't believe it. Ellie is growing up so fast and is talking more and more every day. I love her with all of my heart and am so blessed to be the mommy of this angel!

A couple of weeks ago, Alix took pics for mine and Ellie's birthdays. Ellie had a rough night and was NOT down for taking pictures. (of course) ha but we still got some good ones. Alix did an amazing job!

Pics by: Alixann Loosle
Cake made by: Annie Biegler
Cake topper made by: yours truly

See more HERE

Birthday videos

2011-10-26T16:09:00.000-07:00

Ellie busting a move the night before her birthday. I'm telling you...i'm in for it with this girl! ;)

The night before her birthday, I let Ellie sleep in my bed. In the middle of the night, I put a bunch of balloons in her room to surprise her when she woke up!

Meet Mila.

2011-10-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

My friend Whitney had her baby girl! I was so so excited to finally meet her and hold her. Mila is the most perfect baby i've ever seen.. the cutest crinkly ears, pouty lips, and dark skin. Holding her may or may not have made me slightly baby hungry. .

My week and weekend in pictures- Mexican style

2011-10-24T16:06:00.000-07:00

I was invited by Ryan's lovely family to go to Mexico with them! It was ten days of absolute bliss. Sitting on the beach all day, playing sand volleyball, shell hunting, writing in the sand, eating fish tacos for every meal, getting a tan, and being with some of my most favorite people. What could be better than that??

Where I slept. Tough life, eh?

We went to a church session and it happened to be the primary program! The little kids singing in spanish were so cute. oh and p.s. please forgive me for posting such cheesy pictures. I can't help but show how happy I am in my life right now! :)

Sipping Pina Coladas on the beach is a MUST!

I love the Copes! + Melissa and Kylee

I love my Bella boo!

Early morning yoga as the sun was rising....was AMAZING!

But Ryan and I can hardly ever be serious..... ;)

As you can tell....

Isn't this picture amazing? Probably because Ryan is really really rediculously good looking.

I'm so happy :)

We love Kev!

I went flying!

I know this may embarrass Ryan, but I have to share it. Every morning, we all woke up early and watched the sun rise over the ocean. On one of the first mornings, Ryan's mom said that she loved the Beatles song, " Here comes the Sun". Well of course by the end of the week, Ryan had taught himself how to play that song on the guitar and sang it for her on the last sunrise while we were there. How cute is that?! It may or may not have brought her to tears:)

The sun rise was UNREAL!

Ever seen Tangled? We lit some lanterns and let them go over the ocean. It was sweeeet.

and what would a blog post be without a little update of my favorite two year old?!

Funny Story: So while I was in Mexico, I get a text from one of Ellie's daycare teachers and she sent me this picture, along with the words "This is what Ellie showed up in while you were gone. We could definitely tell that Mom was out of town, because of the way she was dressed!" BAHAHA I just about DIED with I got that picture. The culprit was either Ellie's dad or grandpa. . I think it's safe to say that Ellie should stick to being dressed by her momma;)

And Ellie got some good zoo time in with Uncle Brad and Aunt Gina! She still can't stop saying their names. SO cute. I missed this little bug! It feels so good to be home.

birthday festivites

2011-10-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

I had the best birthday! My day started out cuddling with Ellie, then being surprised by Ryan serving me breakfast in bed! French toast with coconut syrup and reese's puffs for Ellie. ha He also got me a private yoga session at 3B yoga .. I've always wanted one!
Isn't he amazing?

Then I played hooky and missed class to treat myself to a pedicure, naturally :)

Last night, Ryan took me to Sapa in Salt Lake, and it was so so yummy!

One of my new favs for sushi.

The night ended with a movie at his cottage with a new blanket, cozy new pjs, and a serenade of one of my favorite songs. I can't think of a better birthday than to spend it with my favorite person!

And to top it all off...I leave for Mexico tomorrow! See you all in 10 days, suckas!

My Weekend in pictures

2011-10-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

This weekend was filled with fun birthday festivities! On Friday night, I went to dinner with some of my best girlfriends, but unfortunately I didn't get any pics! That means it was a good night, right?? ;)

Then on Saturday night, the whole family + our two friends from Germany all went out to eat at the Sundance Foundry Grill. It was so yummy! (and it was nice to be able to sit and have a nice dinner without the kiddos;)

It was my brother Brad's birthday on Saturday, then it's mine and Russell's birthday on Wednesday, and Ellie belly's birthday on the 26th. October = birthday month for the Duncans!

My bestie :)

And last night, Ellie & I had a fun birthday photo shoot with this amazing photograher.

Can't wait to share them with you!

some videos

2011-10-06T10:34:00.000-07:00

Being Elmo

2011-10-04T12:33:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to see this! This might be a film that Ellie will actually sit through. ;)

Happiness

2011-10-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

Happiness is feeling truly loved by someone.
Happiness is early morning yoga.
Happiness is sneaking away from work to visit Ellie at daycare.
Happiness is getting a manicure with my little lady.
Happiness is cuddling under blankets in the rain.
Happiness is eating french toast & watching Conference at the Cope's cottage.
Happiness is sleeping in and missing class. oops.
Happiness is sitting on the porch with Ellie every day after work.
Happiness is being with Ryan.
Happiness is counting down the days until Mexico.
Happiness is seeing Ellie kiss Cody.
Happiness is finding a sweet note on my windshield.

Happiness feels good :)

pinning

2011-09-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

Follow me on Pinterest HERE! I would love to follow you all:)

bye bye mullet!

2011-09-28T23:42:00.000-07:00

Ellie got her first hair cut today. I've never really understood all the hype about a toddler's 1st hair cut...until now. Maybe it's just because they just look so darn cute in the little seats with the capes and their curious/cautious faces staring into the mirror as their hair is being brushed. Cookie Cutters was a great place to go- Ellie was in a bad mood when we walked in, but they gave her a sucker, turned on some yo gabba gabba, and she was in heaven.

All of the little girl's seats were taken, so we put her on the motorcycle. (For you, Uncle Dan!) So here's Ellie getting her hair cut in style. :)

As you can tell by the look on her face, she was a tad unsure about the whole cape idea. But I think it grew on her.

Mommy & Ellie pic!

Dadda didn't want to miss out on all the fun, so he came for a little bit to experience the 1st hair cut with us. I tried to get him in the airplane chair to get himself a hair cut...but he wasn't up for it. ;)

No more mullet! Wahoo! And the lady even styled it all cute. I am surprised that Ellie let her do that, because she hardly lets me touch her hair!

cutie pie.

My weekend in pictures

2011-09-27T22:11:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, Ryan's family invited me to go to Lake Powell with them! I had sooo much fun...and I already want to go back. It was so relaxing being away from phone service, makeup, school, and work. I loved every minute of it! Tube wars, cliff jumping, learning songs on the guitar in the motor home, attempting to wake board, and sleeping under the incredible stars. I could easily get used to that place;)

isn't Ryan a BABE? woo

my favorite girlies in the world! Noelle & Bella

It was Ben's weekend to have Ellie, so it was nice to get away and take a break from my favorite toddler in the world! But three days is too long without my baby.... I missed her so much! She is at such a fun age. So I thought I would slip in a couple pictures of my little lady...:) It was a fun trip, but i'm sure glad to be back with her!

Music Monday

2011-09-26T15:18:00.001-07:00

Mason Jennings "Fighter Girl"

skin care

2011-09-21T13:25:00.000-07:00

So, I thought I would share with you some of my favorite skin care tips! I have never really done anything other than face wash and moisturizer, until a few weeks ago.

My lovely friend Weslie does esthetics right out of her home, and does anything from microdermabrasions, to chemical peels, to waxing. I have always wanted to try a chemical peel or micro, but they are usually super expensive! Fear not, my friends. Weslie has a chemical peel/micro combo for only $30!! That is such an amazing deal!!!...usually peels are around $60 and micros are around $100. ouch.

With that being said, I have had a couple of treatments in the past month, and already notice the biggest difference in my skin! It is so much softer and smoother and my skin seems to glow more. I am OBSESSED! So, if any of you want to try it out, Weslie is your woman.

Check out all of her services HERE.

Lastly, I wanted to share with you one of my favorite skin care products; Estee Lauder's "Idealist pore minimizing skin refinisher". You just put it on in the morning and at night after you wash your face, and before you put on your moisturizer. After just a week, I started noticing smaller pores and my skin looked more refined. I have been using it for just under a month now, combined with the peel/micro combo, and I couldn't be happier!

Get your own HERE!

Does anyone have any favorite skin care products or remedies? Please share!

My weekend in pictures

2011-09-19T13:44:00.000-07:00

My weekend started out at the city library. I seriously don't know why we don't go here more often! Ellie LOVED it.

Blurry iPhone pic of Ryan and I on the Sundance moonlight lift ride-- (I really need to find my good camera....)

Most of the fam + Ryan and Janna, went to the Utah state fair! It was so much fun, and they had everything you could imagine there.

The kiddies loved the animals!

Couldn't leave without taking Ellie Belly on a few rides

Russ & Janna by the ginormous pumpkins!

The cutest kid in the world...my nephew Cody

Finishing the day off right....with ice cream:)

Is she not the cutest bear you've ever seen!?!?

hahahah this one wins.

Music Monday

2011-09-19T11:46:00.000-07:00

The Civil Wars. Love them right now!

an early victory dance ;)

2011-09-17T21:01:00.001-07:00

I hope i'm this cute when i'm old

2011-09-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

DIY Mirrored dresser

2011-09-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

I FINALLY finished my dresser.... with a lot of help from my dad and brother. For some reason, I love mirrored furniture. They make a room appear larger, and they just add some glamour to any room.

This picture was my inspiration:

However, mirrored furniture is very costly....This Pottery Barn dresser is about $2,000. So,me being a single mom who can't afford such things ;), I got the crazy idea to make my own version.
I found this Ikea dresser on KSL for $40.
Here is the BEFORE picture:

And AFTER!

I painted the dresser edges white, then measured the spots where I would need mirrors. I got a couple of free scrap pieces of mirror from various places; KSL, remodeling stores, glass stores, neighbors, etc. Then I called up my local glass cutting shop, and asked them if they could cut them into the sizes that I needed, and I also had them drill holes in the mirrors for the knobs.
Then we used the Liquid Nails adhesive on the wood, so that it wouldn't ruin the black backing of the mirrors.

After the mirrors were glued on, we put the knobs on.

FINI!

What do you think??

Not identical to my inspiration picture, but I think it turned out pretty good!

In the end, it ended up costing me about $100 compared to $2,000 Not too shabby!

My Weekend in Pictures

2011-09-04T23:46:00.000-07:00

Did everyone have a great weekend? Because I sure did!

This picture was actually from last weekend, but I forgot to post it-- One of my besties Whitney got married!!! Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of me and the beautiful bride, but here is the 'ol gang looking dapper at the reception; Me, Ryan, and Whitney H.

LOVE THESE PEOPLE!!

Ryan watched his two little sisters for almost a whole week, so Ellie & I spent most of our time with them! -Just a little background for you, Ryan & I were junior high sweethearts. hahah I love that we have been hanging out a lot! AND we have a few classes together, so SORRY ry guy....you're stuck with me for a while. ;)

Bella, Me, Ryan, and Noelle out on the boat! Isn't Ryan's stache sexy?? ;)

We hiked the Y... it was my first time hiking up there! Ryan and I sure got a good workout carrying these lovely ladies on our backs most of the way;)

Then we decided to take the girlies camping! We camped at the most perfect spot.

Here is Ryan teaching the girlies how to start a fire. Best brother award!

Ry, me, and Ellie belly after 5 hours of sleeping on rocks. ugh... G'Mornin!

Me & my lady

Look at that view!

back-to-school MUST have!

2011-09-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

I haven't even been in school for a week and I already feel like I need something to help me relax from all the stress!

3B yoga has a killer deal right now for students- 9 months unlimited yoga for only $29.99 a month! They have classes for all skill levels- So treat yourself to a nice back-to-school present and get a yoga pass. Yoga is the only thing that keeps me sane during the semester. . . It's the BEST THING ever. Try it out!

I want a wing suit.

2011-08-31T14:53:00.001-07:00

mysterious toddler

2011-08-30T13:21:00.000-07:00

I think I need to watch out for Ellie....i'm beginning to think this whole "two year old" thing is all a show, and she really is smarter than I think she is. Why you ask? Well, this morning she woke me up at 5:30 AM..... FIVE THIRTY! On my first day of school. just lovely... After a while, I roll out of bed, and decide to hop in the shower. So I lay Ellie in my bed and give her my iPhone while it is playing Baby Einstein. Ten minutes later, I come into the room and lay down by her and look at the phone and this is what I see:

She had dialed Ben TWICE at 6:22am, and also "007" twice. ummm...since when did my toddler know how to call her daddy and James Bond?? hhmmm...

Then I see that she has taken SEVENTEEN pictures of the same thing:

whatever that is?

But wait...it gets even more weird....I opened up the internet browser to check my balance, and this was on the screen:

A google search for coffee in Utah?? WTF??! I don't even drink coffee, so it definitely wasn't from me!

Ellie is ccrrraaazzyy! I am stumped on this one. haha Maybe Ellie was wanting to hint to me what I needed to stay awake in my first class or something......?? Or maybe she is on a special mission that I don't know about?

I guess I will never know how my toddler knows James Bond and how to find the local coffee shop. ;)

Help me win!

2011-08-29T14:45:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I really really want this Hobo wallet from Soel Boutique's giveaway.... I need lots of comments to win though, so leave me a comment!! pleeeeeaaase and thank you:)

Soel Boutique has the CUTEST stuff! Check it out if you haven't been in there before. I love their cute baby clothes and toy selection..but most of all, they have the cutest shoes and boots for us ladies!

Oh, and I am supposed to share an embarrasing moment in this post..... So I think I will just redirect you to a previous post. I am such an idiot.

Thanks for all the comments!!

Music Monday

2011-08-29T12:15:00.000-07:00

Young the Giant- "My Body"

Like what you hear? Check out another video of theirs here

Freshly Picked Moccasin giveaway!

2011-08-26T11:40:00.000-07:00

Go HERE for more details!

new nightstand!

2011-08-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

My old nightstand: boring and blAh
(oh and please forgive me for taking these pics with my iPhone...and for STILL not having my curtains up. Getting tired of seeing my lovely window well?)

My new nightstand! Bold and fun :)

It was just meant to be. I walked into Alice Lane a few days ago, and there she was. White, shiny, and perfect. I instantly fell in LOVE with this nightstand and had to get it! OH, and because it was 50% off! I love how the Greek Key pattern gives off a Hollywood Glam feel. (or atleast that's how I like to think of it as;)

AND it has a mirrored top! PERFECTION.

I finally got one!

2011-08-25T14:48:00.000-07:00

...the white blazer that I have always wanted.
I am one happy girl:)

Although it wasn't the Banana Republic one that I wanted.... I got a killer deal and am stoked.

blazer: Forever 21

blue cami: Nordstrom

skinny jeans: Urban Outfitters

wedges: Steve Madden

clutch wallet: Hobo

gold bamboo earrings: Nordstrom

headboard help

2011-08-24T13:58:00.000-07:00

I want your opinions! I am trying to decide what style of headboard I want to make for my bed. I like the classic rectangle look, but there are a couple of different options:

A nailhead board with greek key pattern- fun design

via

A tufted headboard- looks comfortable and goes with a lot of different bedroom styles

via

Basic nailhead board- classic

via

What's your opinion??

a sucker and an Elmo toothbrush

2011-08-23T14:20:00.000-07:00

....just some things that happen to stop Ellie from crying. I understand the sucker....but the toothbrush? umm okay. I'm fine with that! :)

Music Monday- Ellie's pick

2011-08-22T13:39:00.000-07:00

Ellie turned on the radio all by herself to this song. Now all we need is a strobe light!

a weekend of rememberance

2011-08-21T19:41:00.000-07:00

Today would have been my parents 40th wedding anniversary! And tomorrow is my momma's birthday, so I thought I would post some old pics of my mom and dad:)

Miss you mom!
xoxoxo

Here are my parents on their FIRST date when they were just 15 years old!! haha I LOVE this one.

My parent's wedding announcement. Look at that stache! Lookin good dad. And my mom was a babe

Wedding day

Hippies :)

4 kids later....love this

Me and my momma!

The best mom in the world

A few days before she passed away. She was so beautiful!

Ellie putting flowers on Grandma's grave

The girls

The best guy in the world

I mostly put these pics up for my dad- to tell him how much I LOVE him! You're the best dad in the world, and I look up to you for being so strong for our family. Mom would be proud of you:)

Lovely Things

2011-08-19T13:49:00.000-07:00

This casual outfit

Essie's Mint Candy Apple nail color

The floor in this amazing kitchen

My newest addiction: Chocolate raspberry Fruit Thins.

Not to be confused with Wheat thins.....MUCH different:)

This gold goose arm cuff

We all know and love this song, right?

This coral outfit. Love the fringe purse and booties

This rug

This cross body purse by Marc Jacobs. Perfect size!

How cute is this leather arrow mobile? Perfect for a little boy's room.
(Althought it would be easy and a lot cheaper to make your own!)

This white bike. I love the leather accents.

F-bomb.

2011-08-18T11:49:00.000-07:00

Ellie started saying "Rock" then it somehow turned into the f-bomb....ahhh! I promise I didn't teach her that!! But I was laughing so hard when she was saying it.

love this girl

2011-08-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

2 little monkeys jumping on the bed

2011-08-15T19:24:00.000-07:00

Ellie loooves her cousin Madison! Ellie's laugh kills me

My weekend in pictures

2011-08-15T12:18:00.000-07:00

   Where did my infant go?? Suddenly I have a walking, talking, self-feeding toddler.
                                                         ooooh I just love this girl!

The old gang from my Junior high days got together and went out on the lake. We had a little too much fun reminicing about burning soft batch cookies, longboarding to Harmons every night, and all of our two week long romances. Junior high was kind of a big deal.

My junior high lover and I reunited! hahah Ryan will always be one of my favorites.

We ended the night dancing our little hearts out. My abs seriously still hurt from laughing so hard. Whitney falling.. twice. and Ryan's infamous dance moves....PG-13, people.

Forget that sunset....Isn't Whitney gorgeous??! I have hotter friends than you do. Love love love her!

My friend's brother Britn AKA Project Lost had his first dj gig. He killed it! Video HERE.

The fam went up to the city and watched stage 4 of the Tour of Utah. I loved every second of it.

Alta and I watching the race! I was sad to give this pup back to her owner:( It was a fun week!

I finally got around to re-painting my room for the THIRD time. (shoot me) I decided to go a different route than what I was normally wanting to do. I chose Stonington Gray by Benjamin Moore. It makes the room a lot brighter and I love it! The blue/gray is perfect. (this picture sucks...it's darker in person than in the picture) Now I just need to get my curtains up, rug, pillows and dresser, and hang the art on the wall. I can't wait!

Here are some pictures of the paint color that I used. My camera phone is a piece sometimes..

...........

My friend Kelsey had her 21st birthday!! We had a fun night up at Sundance. Love these ladies!

Hope you all had a great weekend!

read it.

2011-08-10T13:11:00.000-07:00

A few people recommended this book to me, and I can see why after reading it!

The book talks about 4 agreements:

1. Be impeccable with your word

2. Don't take anything personally

3. Don't make assumptions

4. Always do your best

Don Miguel Ruiz does such a great job teaching why these four agreements are so important for our personal success and happiness. This book will change your life... You will look at everything in a completely different light. I highly recommend it to anyone--

Read it!

exploring

2011-08-10T12:59:00.000-07:00

Photo by Mitchel Issel

Music Monday

2011-08-08T13:13:00.000-07:00

One of my favs from Radiohead. Close your eyes and listen to each instrument and how they blend together. The percussion is amazing in this song.
This band changed the way I listen to music. I appreciate it so much more.

Meet Alta.

2011-08-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

Alta is a middle aged golden lab, and we get to watch her for a whole week!!! Ellie and I are BEYOND excited....I want a dog so so bad! Ellie absolutely loves her, and Alta is well trained and perfect. We are going to wear this doggie out all week with hiking, swimming in the lake, playing fetch, walks, and yes, she is an inside dog so she is going to cuddle with Ellie and I. in my bed.

Judge me all you want.

Ellie totally needs a furry friend! Don't you think??

This is Ellie telling me that I should get one. . .

slobbery kisses

cuteness overload!!

Wedding Video

2011-08-08T11:30:00.000-07:00

The way this video portrays their true love is.....simply amazing.

nick+maria • england wedding from Paperback Weddings on Vimeo.

via

Sunday banana bread

2011-08-07T08:46:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the recipe Grandma Schwen!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 cup sugar

2 eggs, beaten

4 bananas, finely crushed

1 1/2 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. vanilla

Directions:

1. Cream together butter & sugar

2. Add eggs & crushed bananas and combine well

3. Sift together flour, soda, and salt. Add to creamed mixture. Add Vanilla

4. Pour into greased and floured loaf pan

5. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 minutes

6. Keeps well refridgerated

Enjoy!

the next Kate Moss?

2011-08-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

Is it weird that I am in love with this ten year old model? 10 years old! She is so so cute.
Thylane Lena Rose Blondeau is beyond gorgeous. Although, there has been a recent outrage that Paris Vogue took it a little too far with making her look waaay too old for her age on the recent cover. Makeup? heels? for a ten year old? Let kids be kids, dangit! I hope that in the future, they portray her as the kid that she is, rather than try and make her look older. I think it could definitely send out the wrong message to girls that age.

But as for the natural photos of her that actually look like her age..... stunning.

What's your opinion on the outrage? Do you think Vogue took it too far? or do you think that it is considered art? Watch the video HERE

mommy & Ellie on film

2011-08-03T13:41:00.000-07:00

Remember this fun photo shoot with Mitchel Issel? Well, he texted me a couple of nights ago and asked me if I wanted to do a quick shoot with Ellie. I couldn't say no to that! I love how soft and feminine they turned out. I want to put one on canvas and hang it in my room. Isn't Mitch amazing??

Which one do you guys like the best?

purging pages

2011-08-02T13:50:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share with you a little something that I have been doing recently...so take it for what it's worth. I have been writing every day, something called purging pages. I write/ vent about things that are bottled up inside of me, or things that are stressing me out, or any negative thought that I might have. When I'm done, I shred it. destroy it. burn it. (even that part is therapeutic in itself.)

Let me explain a little bit more.
I used to keep a journal. I used to vent in it, write down happy things, sad things, anything and everything. Well, every time I looked back and read it, it would almost be like I was re-living those sad feelings and moments. Sure, it's good to look back at the past and remember what you learned, but it was almost like making me feel those negative thoughts all over again, which is very unhealthy. Which brought me to my purging pages. I tell you, people. This is as good as any therapy session that I have been to! (and a lot cheaper)

I heard about a study where a classroom full of students who had anxiety and depression, did an exercise just like this. They wrote every day for 20 minutes. After two weeks, there were significant changes in their brains and their anxiety was cut down astronomically. Just by WRITING! amazing.

Writing down all of these feelings help me release and get rid of negativity in my life. Shredding it afterwards, helps me then forget about those feelings and move on.

Extremely therapeutic. Try it!

bustin moves

2011-08-02T13:02:00.001-07:00

Ellie to a TEE

2011-08-02T11:48:00.000-07:00

something to think about

2011-08-01T15:18:00.000-07:00

ooohhh I am absolutely in love with this post from this blog. She talks about how to talk to little girls.

She sat next to a little girl on the bus and her first instict was to compliment the little girl on her hair, but then she caught herself. She remembered reading something that said; instead of complimenting little girls on their looks, ask them about ideas and books, and things that will make them think.
I totally catch myself saying things like that to little girls without even thinking, just because it is something easy and safe to say to someone we don't even know them that well.

She continued to say that because she asked those questions, it lead in to conversation including the little girls mother and made them both reminisce about a memory. Starting conversations this way can hopefully help little girls to not get the impression that looks are the most important thing or the first thing that people notice. I thought it was so true and inspiring, so I thought I would share. Wouldn't it be amazing if we all did this more often?
Read about it HERE.

Music Monday

2011-08-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

I went with a soundtrack for today...because I have seen this movie twice now and am obsessed with the music. Lincoln Lawyer is an awesome movie, by the way- go see it!
Bobby Blue Band, Citizen Cope, Gang Starr, Deadmau5, and Marlena Shaw...random list, but all goodies. The last few are my fav- They go great with the movie

Have a great Monday!

girlie girl

2011-07-28T14:03:00.000-07:00

I've got quite the diva on my hands! Every morning, Ellie begs me to give her my blush so that she can put it on her cheeks, while making very precise circular motions, in a very serious manner ;) Then she puts some on each of my cheeks. Cutest thing ever.

I let Ellie go wild with the paint brush on my wall, just to give me more of a reason to make myself repaint it;) and.she.loved.it. She then began to put some paint on her lips like lipstick! Funny girl.

I love to observe Ellie because she does the funniest things. I caught her pinching her lil belly then smiling after realizing that I saw her. I put this under the "girlie girl" post as a joke, because we ALL find ourselves doing this sometime in our life, don't we? ;) Of course, baby fat is always cute. No fair.

So...I walk upstairs yesterday, to find this:

Yes, that is my dad painting Ellie's nails, and yes, he is the cutest grandpa in the WORLD, and yes, I taught her how to blow on them afterwards to try and avoid pink lacquer on my couch...and everywhere else for that matter.

Then Ellie of course had to show off her freshly painted nails.

And just in case that wasn't enough cuteness for you...

I don't think my twin brother & I had these moves....

2011-07-28T13:28:00.003-07:00

baby announcement

2011-07-26T15:46:00.000-07:00

I hope I tricked you all with the title....;)

I'm so doing this with my next baby....This couple had their doctor write on a piece of paper if it was a boy or girl, then they took the piece of paper to a local bakery and had them make a cake with either pink or blue frosting inside. How cute! It would be hard to not peek on the way to the bakery;)

I'm not baby hungry one bit. nope. nada. zilch. . .eff.

Love Languages print

2011-07-25T15:44:00.000-07:00

I am sooo excited for my new print to come...I just had to share it with you! This Love Languages print is simple and perfect. I can't wait to add it to my future gallery wall. Check out Made By Girl's other prints here and her blog here.

My bedroom makeover progress

2011-07-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

I say "progress" as I chuckle...because I haven't made much progress. I've repainted my room twice now, and it is just too dark of a plum purple for me, and not the "gray" that I had in mind. With that being said, thanks to all who gave me their recommendations on their idea of the perfect gray paint! I went and got samples and put them on my wall....and if you can't tell, I am a little indecisive. (to say the least) I even thought about just keeping the color that I have now, because I am absolutely dreading repainting it. But third time might be the charm, eh?

I never want to look at another little paint sample card again in my life.

I finally finished my DIY chandelier! I followed this tutorial, and I like how it turned out. Especially compared to THIS look-a-like chandelier from West Elm that is $270. YIKES! I made mine for easily under 20 bucks. (I will warn you though...it is very time consuming.)
Who would have thought that wax paper would look so much like shells? Pretty cool.

You like?

Here it is with the light turned on:

And some of my artwork arrived! The portrait pieces are from the talented Leigh Viner, and I found the stacked pyramid print on Etsy, and the CHANEL No5 print is by Andy Warhol. As you can see, I wanted to make a fashion inspired gallery wall.

I can't wait to get these bad boys matted and framed!

Although, the color of the walls seem to look great with my artwork! UGH I can't decide.

I will be posting a tutorial on how to make a DIY mirrored dresser hopefully soon...if I can ever decide on a paint color!!!

love you, Scottie

2011-07-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

Scottie, you will be forever loved and missed. You were always a great friend to me and everyone around you, and always put a smile on my face. Our memories of playing co-ed softball together, and Kelsey and I leaving you funny late night voicemails, and you and I saying how "too cool" we were for eachother, will be forever engraved in my mind.
My heart goes out to all of his friends and family during this tragedy.

"PAUSE" "I ain't scurred!"

Love you Scottie.

Rest in peace buddy.

morning hike with my love

2011-07-22T14:13:00.001-07:00

she likes to put on mommy's shades:)

my game face?

2011-07-21T13:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks to these race pictures that I received in my email today, I have came to the conclusion that I look like a complete idiot when I run. What's up with my tongue sticking out? I didn't even realize that I did that! I thought I would share them with you so you can get a good laugh.

I blame my brother/training partner for not telling me that I look like a fool when I run. . . But does anyone really look "good" when they run? (here I go trying to justify myself.)

They really need to get rid of those sneaky road photographers. ;)

My weekend in pictures

2011-07-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

As a result from watching the Tour de France every morning, Ellie makes it a routine to put her Nega Maluca doll that she got from Brad & Gina on her little bike and push it around the house:)

I got to hang out with my most favorite cousins ever!! We went and put unlimited toppings on our ice cream, then went to the park for some fun.

The kiddies got a kick out of Milo's "slide hair"

Anytime Ellie sees flowers, she has to stop and smell them.

g'mornin sunshine!

Morning wrestling match with my toddler. I think it's safe to say that she won this round.

The whole fam damily (except for Ellie, SNIFF SNIFF) took a road trip down to Bryce Canyon! I was the lucky one to ride with the cutest kid in the world. My nephew Cody did so good in the car ride! Here he is with Uncle Brad. This kid seriously kills me with his cuteness.

My brothers Brad & Russ and my sister-in-law Alli and I all ran in the Bryce Canyon half marathon! It was my 2nd time running this course. I LOVE it! and it was so fun having my family run it with me.

Proud, tired smiles from the runners:)

OH, and we happened to see our cousins down there...Heather & Jenny ran it too!

The whole fam damily (-ellie)

I got 7th place in my age group and Russ got 2nd in his, so he got an award. WOO! Go RUSS!

We stopped at Calf Creek on our way home to ice. Thumbs up for sore legs?. . . .

My BFF/brother/twin and I.
Love him! ooodelally

These guys don't look like brothers at ALL.......;)
My pops & some of his bros chit chattin away

Relaxin on the porch like we do best. Ellie is sportin her new watermelon Vans that she got from her dadda! So cute.

Hope you all had a great weekend!

P.S. my legs are slowly looking better. woot woot. Thanks for all the advice!

Music Monday- Lucy Rose

2011-07-18T13:27:00.000-07:00

Like what you hear? Check out another one of my favs by her Here.

help!

2011-07-13T22:45:00.000-07:00

My little bug is growing like a weed. What happened to my infant?! I swear she turned into a toddler overnight. I love this age. She is so much fun but also getting to be quite the handful! I made the mistake of letting her sleep in my bed with me a few nights ago....(Which I LOVE) but now she won't sleep in her crib. Ugh! Nights turn into a war zone....me trying to get her to sleep in her crib, while she cries out "momma" all night. It breaks my heart! and of course I am a push over and finally bring her into my bed. I know I need to stop doing that, but tonight she finally fell asleep standing up in her crib, leaning her head on the side of it. Poor thing! What do I do people?? Does anyone have their kids sleep in their bed with them every night? Any help/suggestions would be appreciated:)

cutie

OH, and one more thing.....MY LEGS ARE GETTING WORSE! ahhhh! It looks like I have leprosy! I have never seen mosquito bites look like this....I am getting a bit concerned..... Is it part of the healing process that they turn dark like this? and does anyone have any remedies for bites? Don't worry, I am trying my BEST to not scratch them because I don't want scars. But people, this is getting out of control. HELP! This doesn't look normal.

my next purchase...

2011-07-11T22:03:00.000-07:00

bug spray.

Mosquitos-1

Michelle at 3rd base-0

must....not.....scratch.....

Dear paint pros-

2011-07-11T19:08:00.000-07:00

a gray wall that I love...via

I am going crazy trying to find the right shade of gray for my bedroom! The first paint color I tried was too light and pulled a wee-bit lavender tint. Then the second color I tried was pretty dark, but also had a purple tint. What the heck?! My room is in a not-so-well lit basement, so I know that the lighting has a lot to do with getting the right shade. But my question is....Does anyone have any gray paint colors that they recommend?? I am getting sick of re-painting my room, so I want to get it right this next time;) Any help would be much appreciated!

my personal opinion on the latest news...

2011-07-11T14:44:00.000-07:00

I don't get how ^This^ guy got sentenced to life.... While ^This^ girl will be walking free this week.

I really hope that Caylee's Law is passed.

Lovely Things

2011-07-10T08:29:00.000-07:00

This amazing chevron pillow

Ellie loves her new pull toy! Get yours Here.

this scalloped pencil dress. Perfect for work!

this arrow ring

these cute striped toddler loungewears

This color block dress

I NEED a white blazer!
via

via