My Neighborhood

May has finally arrived and hopefully the good weather is here to stay. Since I am not back to running yet, I decided to take a walk around my neighborhood the other day ... camera in tow.

It's sure beautiful around these parts right now.

Christmas in Photos

This is a little what my Christmas looked like...

A lot of Christmas decorations. My mom and dad did a good job this year. No?

A lot of food, which included our annual Panda Express on Christmas Eve. #myfave

And not enough kisses (but way too much Barney) from this little girl.

For more reasons than one, Christmas was good to me this year!

Hope you all had a very Merry Christmas too.

No Place Like Home for the Holidays

We are leaving today for the Inland Northwest for Christmas!
I cannot wait to be with my family!

This is my parent's house last year decorated at Christmas. 

Can't wait to see what my mom and dad did this year!

Hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

i have a copyright. weird.

After encouragement from some family members I decided to copyright a photo I took.
Never in a million years did I think I would do that!

But it is submitted, pending the government verifies it is really my photograph ... which it is.
So don't even think of stealing this. Haha.
Just don't doven do it (only family members will get that).

I had to title it when I submitted it. 

I named it Entering His Kingdom. 

I thought it was fitting.

See those words above on the pic? I can do that now. Crazy.

my little space

I've always been a home-body. There is nothing like being home.
Since being on my own have I loved having my bedroom that can be a little oasis.
Not to mention I have the most comfy bed ever made.

sweet sweet saturdays

Can I just say something?
Oh I can? OK. Thanks.

I love Saturdays.
Days off are the best. Aren't they?

Waking up without and alarm clock and when it is actually light out is heavenly.
With nowhere in particular to have to be or anything you have to do.

I am sitting here in bed trying to plan my day. Ahhhh I love my bed.
Proof above. I know. I'm lame.

I'm thinking my day will include...

A long long run. Unfortunately inside on the treadmill. It snowed yesterday. I was in heels.
Ask me how I feel about that. Wait. Don't.

Running a couple errands ... which will definitely include a diet coke ... and some laundry.
I guess I have to be productive in some way or another.

Attending the festival of colors. I can't believe I have lived here eight years and have never gone.
Pictures will follow.

Eating some amazing red velvet cake made from scratch last night.
That's right. Just call me Rachael Ray. Bobby Flay might have contributed.

What are your Saturday plans? Any ideas I can steal?

P.S. Thanks for all your sweet comments. I loved finding out who you are.

the little girls

Girls pretty much reign in our family (sorry boys, but you know it's true). So we refer to the grandkids as the little girls. I just love these girls... though I'm starting to become offended as they NEVER cry when I leave like when Grandma J does. Rude.

Most of my family was in town this past week as Adrienne and Scott are making their trek back to Chicago. I just had to see little 'S' one last time before they took off. The next time I see her she'll be walking.

This picture makes me laugh...

i got soul but i'm not a soldier

You have that song stuck in your head now, don't you?

Today my running sidekick and I decided it was warm enough to go outside. I forgot how much better it is to run outside. I am such a happier person when I get to be outside. We went five and a half miles and I was loving every second of it ... although there were more seconds to love as my pace isn't up to par right now. I also realized my playlist is in desperate need of updating. I think I've heard Disturbia four too many times. Suggestions???

home for the holidays

I love this place.

'tis the season to ...

(photo taken on my trip to New York City)

Santa, I still believe.

sweet savannah

I have fallen in love with these pinch-able cheeks, big blue eyes
and rubber band rolls the past few days.

wild side

If you know me, you know I like animal prints.
Not to the extent where it is obnoxious.
Well at least I think so. So naturally I used my leopard shoes and
zebra-print stool to show juxtaposition for my class assignment.

Note: No animals were harmed in the taking of this picture. All are faux prints. Ha.

Clearly. Those shoe only cost me $5 dollars.

you gotta have faith

Sorrow looks back, worry looks around, 

but faith looks up. 

-Unknown

a trail well traveled

My favorite place to go running is the Provo River Parkway. I couldn't even tell you how many times I have pounded on that pavement. Don't worry dad. I never run alone.

There is just something about running the canyon that I love. I love how the environment allows my mind to wander. I have sorted through many a problems and run out many a frustrations there. I have also realized on this trail how beautiful my surroundings are and how blessed I am. Sad to say I probably have run my last miles there for the year.

photog class

So last night was my first night of my photography class from Heather Mildenstein. It is a class for beginners. She was teaching the basics of the basics. When I say I'm beginner, that is an understatement. My eyes were completely opened last night. My friend Jenny has taken me out once to teach me some things, so I didn't feel completely stupid (thanks Jenny) ... but there is so so much to learn.

I realized how far I need to go, but how exciting this is for me. I have felt lately that my life is kind of stagnant...you know not really progressing academically. Apparently the Kardashians and the Biggest Loser aren't cutting it anymore. I think this is what I needed! She gave all of us homework and I can't wait to get to my assignments. Anyone have any good places around Utah County where I can take some fun photos?

I also realized that I want to buy a new lens and a cute bag to carry my camera around in. I am in love with this one. I'm beginning to realize this might be a bad hobby to have where my bank account is concerned.

{ i love to see the ... }

I took these last week while waiting for the wedding. I love the Salt Lake City Temple Square Grounds.


*The night one was after the reception.

{ my new toy }

I don't know when it started, but for a while now I have been interested in getting into photography. I've hesitated because it feels like everyone is too. I didn't want people to think that I am doing it cause all the cool kids are doing it. But I finally bought a Digital SLR camera. Last night my talented friend Jenny took me out and taught me how to use my camera on manual. How to manipulate the camera so I can get the type of photo and effect I want. She was so nice in answering all my questions and teaching me in layman's terms.

Here are a couple that actually turned out. I have a LONG ways to go, but it was fun to finally get started.

Jenny took a bunch of photos too. Check it out. Warning: I look sick in that last one.

{ blocker }

So some of you know that there are a couple blogs where I could be considered a regular. Fine. Fine. I could even be considered a blocker of some (blog+stalker), but I just love how many ideas I get from them.

I thought I would share a couple. Seriously worth your while.

1. Cardigan Empire
This girl is amazing. She can pretty much be your personal fashion consultant. She tells you how to dress for your body type, which colors work best for you, how to hem jeans, etc. I have definitely learned a thing or two.

2. Green Apple Photography
I have recently developed a love for photography. My favorite that I visit is Green Apple Photography. I adore her style. I can only hope to be half as good as her someday. If I ever end up getting married, she will be my photographer. I've decided.

3. NieNie
I'm sure you've already heard of her. Talk about inspiring and . Wow.

(click on title for link)