The Wild WoRLd of Danielle, Eric, Rocco AND CHANEL!

Life in the Fast Lane...

2011-02-03T16:24:00.000-08:00

First Glamour Shot

Life is going so fast!!! I was just looking at all the photos and videos of Chanel's first few months and wow things have changed so much! Her look has changed, her abilities and her personality. She can roll, almost sit up on her own, she seems to be letting us know what she wants or doesnt want:) She is a smiley and happy girl and we our her slaves!

First Day of Mom's Homemade Sweet potatoes

Our trip to Michigan

Cute as A Button

Best Dad in the WORLD!

Michigan State Baby

Well to start off, we have had our first Thanksgiving, Halloween and Christmas! Life is good. Halloween was a hit. We had a party at our house and Eric bought the game, "Just Dance 2" for the WII. It was amazingly fun! I didnt think it would be as fun as it was...but we were all sweating our faces off and I have never seen Eric move so FAST! I decided we needed to be a biker gang for CoCo's first Halloween. I mean how fun to put a cute sweet little newborn baby girl in a biker costume! All and all it was fun and I loved passing out treats in our new home.

Halloween Party

Hawg Dog and Handlebar Eric

Biker Mama and Babe

The Biker Family

Christmas was by far my favorite Christmas this year! Eric and I decided we would put other things in focus for the holiday instead of big gifts. Although we are use to spending a pretty penny on eachother we refrained and I think it made Christmas twice as great! We exchanged our yearly traditional ornaments and got Chanel her 1st Christmas ornament. We had the Palmers over and had a beautiful dinner. We also did the traditional pajama exchange, watched Home Alone and worked on a very interesting gingerbread house:) It was the best Christmas Eve. As for Christmas, Eric and I made an interesting move our first Christmas together by buying these oversized stockings for eachother, which puts us in a position to fill them....UP! My favorite part of the stockings are the movies we give eachother, I got Eric, "The Great Outdoors," CoCo got 6 full episodes of "Punky Brewster," (this might be more for me). We got Mikey his first copy of, "The Goonies," and I got, "Harry and the Hendersons," quite possibly one of the best movies EVER!

The Christmas Dog

Eric and I also went to Seattle for a weekend trip to his company's Christmas Party. We had a great time and I think I fell in love with Seattle! We spent the weekend with my lady friends and his work buddies. These people are my favorite people to hang out with and we had too much fun!

As for everything else...WELL February the best month ever is here!!! Which means...our 2 year anniversary, my big 30, and of course my other favorite holiday, Valentines Day! Not to mention we have a trip planned to Mexico with Eric's work and you know I have been working my tail off to get in a swimsuit! So thats it in a nut shell...LOVE ALL OF YOU!

My Besties~

Christmas with my Man!

Getting her 1st Christmas PJ's

All her presents:)

Diligently Making the Gingerbread House

The Gingerbread Mess

Our Christmas Outing

Dad and Son

Our Humble Abode

Good Times at the Palmer Palace

For Fun...I taught the Dog how to get a Diaper:)

CoCo is getting SOOO BIG!

A Family Begins

2010-09-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

In the past year so much has happened that I have not been blogging about. First of all we bought our first home- a duplex that has become our rental, then I got pregnant-WOW, what a journey! Then we bought another home- a place we plan to live in for a few years-We love this place!!! 3 days before I was due to be induced we closed on this home and NOW….We have a yummy little daughter! As you can see I truly have not had time to sit down and blog about these new endeavors!

Life has become extremely full and rewarding for us and full of new adventures. I feel like things are starting to settle…well…sort of Having a baby is one of the biggest challenges I have EVER EVER EVER faced! First off the birth alone was quite the adventure. 28 hours of labor…thank goodness for the epidural. I wouldn’t have it any other way! I mean seriously…I was able to enjoy her coming into this world without being in excruciating pain. I enjoyed every minute of it!

Chanel Lindsay Palmer came into this world on 8.11.10 at 12:58pm weighing in at 7lbs 7oz. When I first saw her I thought she looked like an angel. She has such a beautiful face and has been such a sweet little lady. The first 2 weeks were really challenging. Mostly because you worry so much and most of the time have NO idea what they want our need! It has been so rewarding getting to know what she wants and being able to figure it out. But each day is different and is challenging and rewarding too. It is so sweet watching Eric dance with her to soothe her and I love when she is being fussy and she hears my voice and settles down. Those are the great moments.

So with that being said enjoy all the pictures of her first month……..

INTRODUCING: Lady Chanel!

28 Weeks

2010-05-21T01:31:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to be that future mom that documented weekly pictures. But I am lucky to even get the monthly pics based off my schedule. I'm sure once I have the baby Eric and I are still going to be at the non-stop pace we are on right now. I think we should have been New Yorkers...it just never slows down at our house! Hopefully, though things might slow down a bit...hopefully:)

So I am 28 weeks weeks pregnant and I am for sure showing! Not that I shouldn't be...but at 4 months a co-worker said, "You look like you are 7 months pregnant!" I thought to myself..."WHY I OUTTTA.......!!!"

Being pregnant is such a new experience. Everything is brand new and exciting...especially if you are not sick. I would have to say I have been very fortunate to not have been sick during these past few months. I have however:
1) Increased in appetite
2) Increased in size
3) Yes I have already gained 20lbs...yikes!
4) Had most pregnant symptoms: heartburn, nausea and many others not to mention.

Cravings I've had...mind you I just came off of competition so a lot of these things are far far away from foods I would normally choose or approve of:
1) Sweets...never been into sweets but since this is Eric's baby...I know why I am craving them!
2) Spaghetti O's, Raviolio's-Chef Boy R'dee of course
3) Pickles
4) Taco Bell-7 Layer Burrito or anything really
5) Meals I had growing up that I haven't had in years: meatloaf, sloppy Joe's, mac n'cheese, goulash, cocoa puffs, BLT's.
6) Weird things: mashed potatoes and ketchup. Pretty much any kind of potato w/ ketchup-fried, mashed, french fries

The great moments, however, have been feeling the baby move. The first time was about 20 weeks and I felt 2 taps, like a someone was knocking on a door...from inside my stomach. At first I was not sure if that was it, but it continued to happened every day. Now I can actually see my stomach move and I can feel rolling around too. Eric was able to feel the baby a couple of weeks ago. For a while he wasn't very patient to wait for the baby, but then the moves got so strong that there was no denying them. One day we were watching the Jazz and the baby was going wild. Eric attributed it to her love for the Jazz. Even though she clearly is going to be a Piston fan:)

Speaking of she...most of you knew! We ARE HAVING A GIRL! This story is one for another day. I really wanted to be surprised...but Eric did not want to be. There was such a big divide that I caved. I am excited to know and it was a true surprise. I could have bet my entire life it was a boy. So since I found out it has felt like a new pregnancy:) I am excited to have a little lady to take care of.

Names....well we have about 25 and of course we haven't found one we agree on completely. We do have a few we both like, but I am sticking with waiting to name until we see her.

One thing I am looking forward to is seeing her. I have no idea, imagination or thought on what she is going to look like. It so crazy...but it feels so weird to think we are going to be parents of a baby that will resemble us or maybe not. I have NO IDEA. Either way, I cant wait for her arrival. Everyday is a blessing and the pregnancy is a reminder of how cool life is. We have so much to be thankful for!

Rocco the Stud PUP!

2010-02-16T23:38:00.000-08:00

This is a tribute to my puppy I love OH so MUCH!!! He is the best little dog in the WORLD! He has grown so much, but yet he is still so little and cute! My little pupster is also quite the smart dog too! So far he knows 4 tricks and is going on 5 and 6. 1) SIT 2) DOWN-was the hardest one so far 3) Shake and 4) HE waves hello!!! He is on his way to spin and he is learning to ring a bell when he has to go to potty:) Rocco is the best dog EVER!!!

Our Little Chicken Nugget:)

2010-02-05T09:42:00.000-08:00

Eric and I are expecting our first baby in August! WE are so excited! I can’t even begin to explain the excitement! Every day I get fatter and fatter and for a good cause
We had the first ultrasound and appointment on January, 22. It was so great! I didn’t think I would be so excited for a doctor’s appointment….but I couldn’t wait! I didn’t even know that I was going to get an ultrasound, but we did! The baby was moving around and the doctor and Eric said he waved! And yes, I say it’s a he…because that is what I believe the baby is. But we are not going to find out…despite Eric wanting to, I think that in life there are very few surprises…so why not wait! I like the idea of being traditional and having the delivery and the doctor say, “IT’s A …..(Insert Gender HERE)!!!”
As for names….well…I have a whole slew of names that I have loved for years. Anytime, I think of a new one I add it to my list. I could talk names all day! But we are not going to announce nor are we going to decide until we see the little lad So you can just keep on asking all day long…but our lips are sealed!
That is our new and exciting news. I am very blessed for the opportunity to welcome a new little soul. This little person is going to be so lucky to have Eric as a dad too! All my fears about parenting get put a side when I know I have Eric as my support and guide to being a good parent. As for both of us, we are ready and patiently ready to welcome a new member to our family! Rocco is also being trained to be a nanny …I guess he is boy dog so he would be a manny!

A lot has been going on!

2009-11-17T15:39:00.000-08:00

WOW WOW WOW! So much to tell, so little time.... Well, I still have not updated my blog from Halloween and believe you definetly want to know about that!!! Not to mention, Thanksgiving & Christmas with the Palmers, our new home (duplex), our new pupster and something big in store this summer!

I will start off with our trip to NYC. Eric and I went for a whole week and stayed with my best friend Lindsay. We did absolutely anything and everything in the City that you can fit into one week. Brooklyn Bridge, Lion King on Broadway, Shopping in Soho, Halloween at Tao, Lunch in Chinatown, Dinner in Little Italy, The MOMA, Clubbing at Webster Hall, Watchin' the ole' Yanks in the Bronx, Scoping out the Wall Street District, Argentinian Empanandas, Kissing on top of the Empire State Building, Knicks game with Lindsay and Jon, a stroll in Central Park, ESPN Zone at Times Square, oh and shopping, eating and walking till our legs just about fell off!!! WheeeeeeeeeeW....what a fun trip.

One of my personal high lights was Eric and I standing in front of the stadium trying to get tickets for the Yankees game! We held up our hands with 2 fingers and yelled, "2 tickets," for about an hour! Not a single person had any extra tickets. And of course all the endless amounts of food. We had dinner at Tao one night and it was one of the most amazing meals Ive had. Not to mention the desert was amazing!!!

Eric's favorite moment was watching the Yankees game at an old Yankees Bar, called Stan's. We had such a fun time and when they won everyone sang this song, "Were Back...Back in the New York Groove!" It was the game that got the Yankees back into the series. He also loved the Knicks game. Such a fun time!

Halloween was a hit! Eric, Lindsay and I dressed up as, "Three's Company." I was Chrissy, Lindsay was Janet, and of course Eric was Jack. We had way TOO much fun!

All and all it was a great trip. Eric enjoyed his first time in NYC and we had some great times with sister Lindz!

This year Thanksgiving was a little untraditional. But, HEY, Why not try something different! Eric's mom and I decided we were not cooking, since it was only 4 of us. We thought about going out to eat, then we decided to order food. We ordered from this place called, Mimi's Cafe. Its a really good home cooking type place, so there Thanksgiving take-out was pretty amazing! And without the mess!! We had a good day, full of snacks, football watching, great people and an easy meal.

Next up Christmas....Christmas at the Ranch Not to mention! This was my first married Christmas with my hubsters Eric. We had a great time hanging with his family. We brought my little brother Mikey, and our new puppy Rocco. On Christmas day we gave the family a great suprise. Eric and I wrapped a big box full of 2 ballons, one pink and one blue. We tied them both to baby bottles filled with candy pacifiers. As they opened the box the ballons popped up and they looked at us and they said, "IS THIS AN ANNOUCEMENT???" Of course we were like, "yup it is, We are having a baby!!"

So there ya have it! Big trips, great holidays, new puppy and a baby on the way! Enjoy the pics and I cant wait to update with baby belly pictures!!! :)

THE ULITMATE WARRIOR-MY 6 MONTH TRANSFORMATION

2009-10-13T17:15:00.000-07:00

DISCLAIMER: Many of you may feel this is immodest or very showy. I am okay with that. The sport I am involved in, is in fact a Physique sport. You are scored on your body and the work you have done. If you feel uncomfortable with it, please do not read this or voice it. I have worked very hard and am very proud of myself with or without your support. I am a fitness professional and this is and always will be my passion. It is important for myself and for my clients to know where you can end up given a strong goal to take your body to the limits. Each person/client can achieve looking their best given the drive to fulfill a fitness goal, whatever it may be. I am sharing that with those people and am documenting it for myself.

Cloud nine has arrived!!! WOW, what a whirlwind! So much to tell and share! The goal I set in the spring has been fulfilled! I can NOT believe it has arrived! It seemed like it would never come this day of October 10th! Honestly, I think I was just going to be stuck in summer, working out, dieting, and preparing for my first figure/bikini competitions! Well, my dream goal has been fulfilled. But not without a little sweat, hardship, frustration, and work work work!

Let me first start out by saying, this goal was one of THE HARDEST THINGS I HAVE EVER DONE! It wouldn’t have happened without determination. But it also wouldn’t have been possible without the support and encouragement Eric has shown me. He put up with a busy wife, a tired wife, a hungry wife, and let’s be honest…when you combine those things you get a MOODY wife! Eric, you are my champion, my rock and my biggest fan! I love you for helping me get through this and recognizing my goals and dreams. Thank you for being patient and loving me through a tough and grueling challenge in my life. Thank you for respecting my passions!

So….it all started with P90X! The program that promises to whip you in shape in 90 days! Those days were hard and rough, but nothing compared to the new goal I had! One day when I was researching diet and fitness, and I finally decided it was my time to shine! I have always wanted to do a figure competition; 3 years ago I went to my first show and told my friend I am going to do that one day!

Well, friends that day has arrived and I am not going to lie, I LOVED IT! Don’t get me wrong there was a time I was dyeing and swore I would never do it again. But isn’t that the lesson in life?? “It’s not supposed to be easy, but it will be worth it!”

There are a few things I would do differently. As Eric says, “hindsight is always 20/20!” I was busy and I isolated myself from a lot of things. At these competitions, I met a lot of women that have been doing this for years. MOST of them have kids and a family. I got a lot of pointers from them on how to continue staying in tip top shape while maintaining BALANCE! I am excited to utilize my new information and continue to work on my gains

I would like to start this out by taking you back to P90X. Eric and I had just gotten married and I was not really very motivating on training. I had went to the Doctor a lot because I was feeling really fatigued. I was not working very hard in the gym and I was eating semi-okay. This is where I started back in April 09:

The WORST PICTURES OF MYSELF!! uhhh

As I began this journey, I pursued P90X with Eric and we jammed out the next 3 months. Progress came, but nothing was more exciting than what came next…..COACH KRISSY!!!!

I was recommended a figure coach by my lovely friend Susie. Krissy Wyatt with Iron Heelz was like no other I have met. She was fiery, spunky, fun, and extremely motivated. I loved her from the start! She did NOT let me get away with selling myself short. She made sure I worked hard through the entire thing and made sure I was on track with my diet and also my workout schedule. I called and text her with just about every darn question I had and she always was so helpful and inspiring.

FUN PROGRESS PICTURES WITH CRAZY ABNER JANE!

Krissy talked me into doing a small show just to get use to the stage and get going. It was great advice at the time. As I look back now, I needed to get that stage fright out of the way, so that the important shows would allow me to present myself. The first show was sort of a flop. There were only 2 girls in the whole show! I got second...hahaha! But I really got to see what it was like to compete, diet for a show, and get all tanned!

VERY FIRST SHOW!!! BIKINI DIVISION

The 3 weeks until the second show, were probably my most miserable few weeks! I was tired and ready to be DONE! I felt like I was getting too skinny and the next one was a figure show. This meant I needed more muscle tone! I needed my abs to come in, my shoulder caps to come in, I also needed my quads and hamstrings to pop out a bit more. I started to get scared and had a few mental breakdowns to say the least. Eric kept me going by telling me I could do it. He made sure I took a break when I was absolutely at my end. It really helped to have someone there pushing you, but also helping you to know when to relax.

As that second show slowly came up, I was ready to back out and so I let Coach Krissy know. I told her I was unable to compete. I was cashed out and ready to focus on the last show (the NPC). I also told her I thought I did not put enough muscle tone on. I wanted to have Eric and her to let me back out of this one. But they didn’t! She told me many competitors do not feel ready and many of them are beginners. She said she would not be mad; however, most of her clients had the same fears I did. So I thought about it and realized I might as well, do it! I mean, I might not get back to this place again! Not to mention, I might be competing with a bunch of girls that felt the same way I did!

I went to the NGA show with a positive attitude. Krissy told me to not judge any other competitors…good or bad! I felt that advice was some of the best! It’s best to go into these shows with a positive attitude, knowing that you worked your hardest in the time given to bring what ya got! So I felt happy and achieved just being there! I met some great girls and loved the entire show!!! IT was such a great learning experience and a ton of fun! The bonus was I got 3rd place in the tall class! I can’t believe I placed, that was such a great feeling!

NGA...SECOND SHOW..FIRST FIGURE...3RD PLACE!

2 weeks left and I was feeling pretty darn good! I knew this next show was going to be much tougher competition…but I was ready! I worked as hard as I could on this last home stretch. With a few minor stressors that got me bumming…but I got through it and moved forward! Bikini division was where my body type fell for this final shin ding! Since I did well in the NGA, I felt I should give figure another go. So I decided to do both! I knew I was going to get smoked in figure, but hey…I’M HERE why not!!!

I got to Cottonwood High school at 8am, had my half grapefruit and was ready for the big show. The atmosphere was intense. As the competition arrived, I realized I was playing with the big dogs! My trainer got there and we were ready to get started on the first division (bikini). I looked at her and said, “I’m scared.” It was not like the last show, all the girls had trainers, hair people, makeup people, and the works! They were experience in shows and there physique was there to match! I practiced in the hallway and knew if I wanted to go home with a trophy, I had to bring my A game to bikini division. See, bikini is about physique, I knew I hit the marks in this division, BUT it is also about attitude, sass and being a model. This is the only division where you personality flare is judged. Not really the reason I did all this, but if that’s what they wanted I was going bring it! I practiced nonstop to my dance music in the hall. I kept thinking about my model days and my Aunt Susan telling me to, “Show the girls your model walk!” When it was time for prejudging, I worked the stage the best I knew how! I knew I went out there and did the best I could.

Now as for figure, my body just didn’t compare the ladies out there! I really was not fully physically ready to place in this show. But I really did love it and brought the best I had in the 3 months I was given to work. To top it off, I was sitting back stage and the love of my life came popping out of nowhere! Eric was gone the whole last week of my training to Lake Powell. I was so happy to have my champ there with me! The day was already complete!

The night show approached and I had an amazing group of people come and cheer me on! A friend from work made pictures of my face and held them up in the crowd and cheered…I LOVED IT! It was so great having friends and family there to cheer me on. You work so hard on this for so long and you are always alone in the gym or on your own schedule. It was amazing to have people there that recognized the work I put in. I’m glad they were able to see the show and understand what I was training for! Such a great inspiration to me to have people I love there!

To top it off, I placed 4th in Bikini and didn’t place in Figure. I was sooooo sooo happy with the outcome I couldn’t have been happier.

My plans are to continue to lift heavy, eat clean, and compete again! I know I said I wouldn’t, but I think I get it now:) being a part of it helped me to put in perspective why I suffered through the summer! I had Red Iguana a few days later (my favorite restaurant) and got sick! I’m back on my eating clean diet and couldn’t be happier! Don’t worry …I will have my cheats here and there…but for the most part I love this stuff!

P.R.O.J.E.C.T Suprise!!!

2009-08-26T14:56:00.000-07:00

Happy 30th Birthday Eric! This past weekend was a ton of fun..at least I thought it was! I had a suprise birthday party for Eric. It's been an undercover project for at least 6 months...and he says he had no idea! I hope that is true, because we pulled off a fun party.

A while ago I asked Eric, "what kind of party is a fun summer party?" He responds in his best little kid voice, "A POOL PARTY!" And then the party planning began!

My goal was to find a place we could have a pool party and the search didnt last long, as I remembered Eric's Aunt Shawna did. She was kind enough for letting me use her pad for the party.

Next began the theme...well of course I wanted a beach theme, but I really wanted it to be more like a surf theme. Eric's heart belongs to the waves, so I tried to make it as "radical" as possible.

I had a lot of help for the setup. Thanks Sandy, Mikel, and Abner...I cant decorate alone! One great contributor was Eric's dad! He came up with the idea to take him golfing and then after they were going to stop and see there cousin. Which is by far the perfect plan...very natural, not forced, or suspious...Well played Craig!

He took a bit of time getting to the party so we just started without him! We had great food, with Tim 'Grill Master' Whitacker on the grill, and our awesome wedding Dj..DJ Hardcore Corey...playing some chill jams mixed with some 90's hip hop.

We got the call that he was on his way and so we got into position. With our neon green and pink sunglasses, party poppers, and bitthday horns we were ready for him to come! When he walked in the back yard, he didnt notice the decor, the giant blown up picture of him (thanks Heath), and dj booth, we jumped out and of course yelled, "SUPRISE!" DJ Corey jumped into position playing Easy E's hip hop Happy Birthday and immediately Eric started to dance! I ran up to him and threw his birthday hat on him, birthday necklace and his surfer shades. He was totally suprised....mission accomplished!

The party began and we ate, swam, danced and threw down on the pinata! Im so happy ERIC was born...Happy Birthday to HUSBAND!

Blue Moon and the 4th of July

2009-07-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

WHoooo WEEEEEEEEE! This summer has been so much fun! I cant even stand it! Really its been going fast but has been full of so much excitement! I know it sounds like its over and for me it sorta is. I officially started training the last 2 weeks and my 2-a-days started TODAY! WOW...so tired! But so excited to take my fitness goals to a whole other level!

Umm so where should I start???? Hmmm...well the first great memory from summer has got to be Eric and I's date to see the Fleetwood Mac concert! Oh my gosh...I love Fleetwood! Stevie Nicks is my ultimate favorite and I want to name my firstborn after her! We had so much fun, I was so excited I don't think Eric knew what to do with me. They played a ton of our favorites and it was number 1 on my list of concerts I have been to! Not to mention, we were able to get WAY better seats since the area we were suppose to be in was unavailable so we basically got front row of the lower bowl.

YAH FOR FLEETWOOD MAC!!! BEST CONCERT EVER!!

The next lively event of the summer was good Ole' Idaho! I think I love this place so much because I appreciate the love Eric's dad, Craig, has for his home. He loves Idaho and had us all smell the air before we left.

The Idaho trip was for the Palmer family reunion. They have a reunion every 4 years. It was so fun! I can't believe how organized this reunion was! For crying out loud I thought we were just going to hang out and fish. Well by golly we were not even able to fish! We were too busy! How can you even be TOO busy in place with a population of 651.8?!?! Well we were! The family had everything from games, skit/talent night, a family play, river boat races (for the kids), and LOTS O' FOOD!

It was great! On our way up to Mackay, I picked up a great cowboy hat, I like to be ready for every occasion! And it was a hit. The trip up there was even fun! Eric and I sang songs and played games...HAHHA...no actually Eric probably thought what is wrong with this girl its just IDAHO! But for some reason I couldn't wait to get out of UTAH...I didn't care where we went!

So one of the highlights of the trip was the skit night. Of course I had been thinking for 2 weeks what should we do for a skit??? Anything to dress up...right!??!? Of course I wasn't getting the feel good vibes from Eric:) But then his mom and I went to yard sale and she picked up this tape dancing to the oldies with Richard Simmons. She thought it was the best thing since I don't know pumpkin pie! I was thinking, "what is so great about these tapes???" And then...VOILA...an idea sprang from her head that you wouldn't believe!!! OKAY OKAY let me back up, we were also at the yard sale with a few of the Palmer's cousins and low and behold one of the cousins had this great head of curly hair! As we were looking at the tapes he told us he could do Richard Simmons impersonations. So he did and then.......Mel got her idea. She decided we should dress up in 80's clothes and do a "sweatin to the oldies theme and have him direct us. So then the idea just kept flowing and just about everyone in Eric's immediate family joined in to our new project. Not to mention the whole town was helping us out. As our idea came about some lady lended us her boom box and then another a cd with 70's music...what a friendly little town! The skit was a goofy little adventure but I would expect nothing less from the Palmer's!

THE PALMERS

RICHARDS SIMONS DANCE CREW...SKIT NIGHT PALMER FAMILY REUNION CIRCA JUNE 2009!

HERE WE COME IDAHO!!!

Next up Michigan Trip! The best way to describe our Michigan trip is Party, Party, Party! As soon as we got there we had a party to get ready for. Little brother Mikey's graduation party:) Eric got to meet more crazies from the family. He even got to meet one of my many brothers...the infamous Bryant. They got along great and Eric even tried on his magnetic diamond earrings...bling bling fool! The party was great we had a nacho machine and Uncle Joe even brought his snow cone maker! My mom, had been busy away for the party. All the food was bomb and we indulged in momma Sandy's homemade mac&cheese...it was bomb! Although, it was freezing that day (so weird for Michigan in July) we still had a ton of fun! We are so proud of Michael graduating high school and even more proud of him going off to the NAVY! Not so happy about the new tattoos...but hey what can I say...I love that kid! Congratulations kiddo!

GRANDPA MAURICE & BRYANT

MIKEYS GRADUATION PARTY

ERIC WEARING SOME SWEET BLING ON HIS EARS! COMPLIMENTS OF B!

THE BROTHERS AND THE HUBBIE!

Bling bling homie!

The very next day we had another party on my dad's side for Eric & I and my cousin Tyler. Tyler and I have always been the long lost family members. Tyler graduated college and I got married so since we are always gone, most family members couldn't attend. So we had Michigan-Summer-Ho-down Pig Roast for all those who missed out! I cant begin to tell you how much fun it was! First off, Grandpa Gonzales got up at the butt-crack of dawn (2am) to start the roast! We all took turns going outside to hang out with him. It was a really cool process to watch and after all the work the pig was amazing to grub on! I loved it. I even helped carve the pig. We played volleyball and horseshoes, we had cake and pig all day long! Later that night we went to see the old cars drive around the fountain. I will have to say it was a poor showing this year! Not many cars to see:( But I did run into some friends from high school. That was amazing, actually it was like a high school reunion. I was in heaven! Family, food, being stuffed from food, and Marshall...I was loving life!

Little Toddy's first band debut!

Congrats TYLER!

Celebration Cake for Eric and I

Getting serious with the pig!

Brother Tom, Brother Todd, Cousin Tyler, Uncle Manuel, Uncle Richard, and MUAH!

And the next day......off to Traverse City! Side note: I promise Eric each time we go that I wont run him ragged, well, I think this time was worse...sorry buddy! We got up at 5am and drove 3 1/2 hours to northern Michigan, Traverse City. Its so beautiful up there and for the 4th they have the cherry festival, fireworks and great shopping! We planned to go up there to spend time with my grandparents and a few friends that live up there. As soon as we got there, we went to grandma and grandpa Charlies house. We had a great breakfast and played with the pup! It likes to catch rocks in its mouth...yeah I know that's kinda dangerous. But hey, the dog likes rocks! After that we drove into TC to our hotel that wasn't ready!!! AHHH...I needed a nap! So Eric and I laid on the beach waiting for our room. I decided to go for a walk and Eric got burnt! No really he was pretty toasty! After we finally got to our room and got ready and went shopping! Not to mention I think we ate the best hot dogs in all of the land! We were so hungry and we stopped in this shop where neither of us had our credit cards so we begged them to let us pay by check so we could eat. Maybe that's why the hot dogs were so good! Then we stopped for ice cream and they had my ultimate favorite...BLUE MOON! I was so happy, not to mention this was the last time I could eat whatever I wanted before training started. I indulged and it was amazing!!! Shopping was fun, eating was good, and boy were we tired! It all caught up to us that day. Later that night we met with my good friend Nez and her family for an amazing dinner at this beautiful hotel. It was so wonderful to catch up and see those ladies! We had a great time. After that we met with some other girls I lived with in high school and of course love these girls like sisters! We watched fireworks with their kids and enjoyed the 4th. Ultimately it was a great 4the of July!

Cherry SALSA TOO!

My burnt Husband and I

Michigan Burn...sorry buddy that sun gotcha!

Our quick visit with my girls Lynelle and Jess!

Sunset din din!

Dinner with the Hamati's in TC!

MY FAVORITE ICE CREAM...BLUE MOON! AND THAT WAS THE LAST TIME I HAD ICECREAM :(

Our Stunnas!

I LOVE MADONNA!

Cute little thrift store...I LOVED IT!

Awesome Betsy Johnson Dresses!

Eric enjoying Cherry Candy...of course it was the Cherry Festival!

Last day...off to Detroit! But of course we cant leave without seeing one last person, Eric's best friend Danny. He is living in Troy doing his residency and I am so jealous. If I were to live in Michigan again, I would live there. It made me so sad to have to leave. We hit up Royal Oak, one of my fav places and I got some awesome vintage dresses...that I LOVE! Ultimately it was a rocking trip as I finished off with a little Coney Island!

SOOOOO SAD TO GO HOME!!!

There's our summer trips in a nutshell :)

The BIG KAHUNA

2009-06-19T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have had some exciting plans brewing and I am so happy to make the announcement to all my friends and family. No it's not what you think it is...no bun in this oven! I will be honest though, I have been very afraid to tell a lot of people this news because of negative opinions or preconceived notions about what I am doing. SOOO...if you are reading this and do not have positive things to say or at least lie and pretend you are positive than READ no FURTHER!

As most of you know Eric and I have been doing this program called P90X. We have had a few friends and now family members doing it as well! Way to "BRING IT" Tim, Sandy, Paul and Heidi! While we have doing this program, I thought to myself, "why do I do these crazy workout trainings???" Besides doing it for myself, my health, and HEY its fun setting goals! But even more than that I wondered what it is I am trying to attain. And though some might think it is vain ....I am trying to attain the best body I can while healthy and young. Although, I know I will always try to eat right and exercise even as I grow older...its not suppose to end! But most of all I want to be seen as a trainer and have the physique to show.

With that being said, I have decided to enter a figure competition! Most of you are unaware or unsure of what this sport is, so I would like to share what is all about!
First off, the show I am entering is an "ALL natural" and no I am not talking about boobs! But an all natural physically sculpted physique. It is the mam'ma jamA of all the fitness events! By definition: "Figure" is a blend of bodybuilding and fitness. It is an option for those who want to compete but do not want to use acrobatics in routine or build muscle to the extreme of a bodybuilder. In some organizations, there are three components to "figure" - symmetry round, posing round, and routine round. There are several areas the judge's look for when comparing athletes and choosing a winner. These include: a high degree of definition and striation, poise, coordination, skin tone, artistic presentation and a high display of elegance, personality and glamour."

I am truly excited about this!!! It is one of my most favorite goals I have ever made! IT is also going to be my most challenging! I have a coach that is a wonderful, spunky, high energy lady that has competed and has coached many girls in these shows. Eric and I went to show a few weeks ago and met her. She coached a girl who won the whole thing. Although, I am going to work as hard as I can to win, this will be my first time and I am going to be so greatful just being able to BE in the show! I start officially training July 6th and it will be extremely intense! I will be on a strict diet, so if I can't eat something you make don't be offended, I will be sad as well! The training is going to be for 3 months and the show is at the end of September with another one at the beginning of October. I hope everyone can make it out and support me. I will be posting pictures through out this time and letting all of you know my progress! I have posted some pictures of what some competitors look like. Here are two quotes from my FAVORITE fitness model, Jaime Eason, I live by them!

"This is your life. If you are not who you want to be, change it! It won’t be easy and it may take some time, but surround yourself with people who love and support you and go for it! No regrets! Only you dwell on your failures. Good luck and remember the inner strength you’ll achieve from adopting a healthy lifestyle far supersedes anything physical."

"The biggest lesson I have learned is that even the most beautiful men and women have insecurities. No one is perfect and beauty is subjective. Just like music and food are a preference, so is beauty and what predicates a fit body. Everyone will always have an opinion."

MY HERO: JAIME EASON

My mentor and winner Shannon Davies!

Shannon again!

Figure Competitor

WISH ME LUCK!

Don't you WISH your HUSBAND was hot like MINE!!!!

2009-05-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been M.I.A for quite some time now...but married life will do that to you! Many ask, "So how is married life???" My response to that is great...but married life is not great just because I am in the cool married crew now. It's great because I get to live with Eric, hang out with Eric, make dinner together with Eric, we plan our weekends and our evenings daily, we work out together, we pray together, we laugh together, we makeup goofy things together.....ultimately I get to hang out all the time with my favorite person:) So advise to my friends who feel rushed to marry or the ones that wonder what its like....well Its great....as long as you find your best friend and homeboy you want to hang out with forever! I'm glad I picked Eric!

I love him so much! And here are a 101 REASONS Eric is numero uno in my book:

101 Things I love about E-ROCK!

1.His Spirit

2.His sense of Style

3.He treats me like a Queen!

4.His hot kissable lips! YOAWZER

5.His patience….especially with me!

6.The way he looks at me

7.His love of sports

8.His competing nature

9.His double ankle…hey that’s pretty unique!

10.His love of the gospel

11.The fact that he thinks the Jazz is better than the Pistons

12.The smell of his skin…hey everyone has a smell and Eric’s is tantalizing

13.His drive to work hard in all that he does

14.The sweet text messages I receive in the morning….they are greatly appreciated.

15.The emotional side that comes out when he thinks of the gospel, his family and me…its pure perfection.

16.His goal to be the best he can be!

17.His extended imagination…mostly on places he wants to go, things he wants to have, and the dream home he WILL have someday!

18.Eric never holds a grudge and he is ALWAYS forgiving…something I try to learn from him everyday.

19.He will always try new foods…although he truly is a “meat and potatoes guy!”

20.He always plays my imaginary games with me….like, “make up a silly laugh,” or “If you could go anywhere/eat anything where/what would it be ect…”

21.His excitement about summer and golf.

22.His love of surfing, snowboarding and California…he is a surfer at heart.

23.His encouragement he gives

24.His diligence to his religion and his family

25.When he kisses my nose…Im weird!

26.The fact that he chose me…boy o’ boy I am lucky.

27.He keeps me in check on my saying prayers…morning and night!

28.He tolerates my music

29.He use to be a player…and he tried to say he wasn’t!

30.He gives great advice

31.He is the most handsome man I have ever met!

32.He helps me be a better person.

33.He likes candy, treats, and all sweet things….

34.He is a full grown Man PuppyJ

35.He does not judge others.

36.He is true to his morals and does not WAIVER.

37.HE is trusting

38.He does great impersonations of Steve Martin

39.He plays Halloween with me all through the year.

40.He works hard and loves his life!

41.He sets goals and encourages me to as well

42.He wants more kids than me!

43.He never gets mad at meJ

44.He looks good in everything he wears…especially in Jordan shorts.

45.He likes to linger longer at family parties.

46.He loves babies!

47.He looks good in the morning even with the poof-hawk in his hair.

48.He speaks with dignity and grace…he thinks before he speaks and never tries to say things that might come off as rude, especially when he is making suggestions.

49.He likes to talk crap when we play games

50.He is a straight up Stud!

51.He thinks Im cool…I think???

52.He motivates me to go for my dreams and he is by my side every step of the way.

53.He wants to travel all over….

54.He likes to list things to do so we have options!

55.His blue eyes are tantalizing!

56.He has a perfectly clean past…can’t find any dirt on this guy!

57.He loves his mother….so much!

58.He is way TOO good for me…but I am glad he thinks Im good enough for him.

59.He is a great person to shop with!

60.He likes to keep things clean and organized…and he teaches me how to as well!

61.He likes to help others be the best person they can be.

62.He is understanding and humble to all situations and people.

63.He loves his friends more than anyone I have ever met! When he gets around them he turns into a giddy 17 yr old guy and is proud of it!

64.He reads my blog and tells me I need to update…wait till he reads this oneJ

65.He will always choose what I want to do over what he wants…so SELFLESS!

66.He cuddles like a puppy and its just about the best thing in the world!

68.Every time I push him off the bed, he kindly wakes me and asks me, “Can you please scoot over? I do this to him every night and still he asks politely!

69.He always runs errands or does tasks I ask him to do, even if he has had a busy day at work.

70.Sometimes he will look at me and tell me I have the most beautiful face…even if he has told 100 girls this…it doesn’t matter…cuz he means it when he tells me!

71.loves going to movies…and I can always talk him into going!

72.He will do ANYTHING and EVERYTHING you ask him if you offer him a massage…it’s a great tool I have found to use!

73.He likes surprises and loves giving them to me!

74.Speaking of surprises, just the other day he got me a subscription to Women’s Mucsle and fitness…thanks buddy!

75.He thinks I am great wife cuz I let him hang out with his friends…Why wouldn’t I?

76.He is turning 30 this year and he doesn’t look a day past 22!

77.He loves to relax and kick back…at the same time he jumps on my band wagon and will go go go!

78.He listens to me babble off dogs I want, names I like and my passions about food!

79.He is truly a diamond in the ruff!

80.He works through hard times and always looks for the positive…he believes he can do anything!

81.He danced with me all night on our wedding….we were dripping with sweat….and he loved it!

82.He uses the line, “you are probably right,” to stop me from debating a point I am trying to win!

83.He talks about both his grandma’s with such a tender love for both of them.

84.He loves fly fishing and Idaho!

85.He loves his ranch in Southern Utah…and always tells me we need to go there like every weekend!

86.He likes his teeth clean and apparently likes mine too…he bought me a sona-care toothbrush and is constantly flossing his teeth!

87.He is pretty much the coolest person I know!

88.He knows he is pretty much the coolest person I know!

89.He likes to help me when I am stressed or worried. He likes to come up with solutions.

90.He doesn’t stress or worry about anything…DUDE how do you do that? Please teach me???

91.He is a basketball player at heart and belongs in the NBA!

92.He tries to cook and help me in the kitchen! 90

93.He knows how to deal with people in all realms of life!

94.He pushes me to work harder but also makes me learn when to let go and relax.

95.He only says kind words about others.

96.He doesn’t snore but he does blow puffs of air from his mouth when he sleeps that scare the HECK out me!

97.He lets me put him in uncomfortable situations and still comes out of it with a smile on his face.

98.He loves listening to music and sharing his favorite songs with me…as we lay around....

99.He gets up and makes play dates with his homies pretty religiously Saturday Mornings!

100.He can never say NO to people who ask for his help or time…We are working on that!

101.He dances with me in the car, He is always up for a party!

Okay okay one more!

102.HE is the love of my life and I am thankful to have such a noble, sweet, humble, funny, smoking hot of a man….ERIC you are bomb!

B-DAY & V-DAY!

2009-02-23T11:03:00.000-08:00

I love February! Mostly because my birthday is on the 13th and following is one of my favorit holidays....Valentines Day! I have always loved Valentines Day...mostly because its colors are pink and red, its a feel good holiday (you dont always have to have a Valentine), and my birthday is right in sync with this splendid occasion.
When I was younger, every year my mom would bring in cupcakes for my birthday. One year my grandpa and mom brought them in. SO we had cupcakes in the morning and cupcakes in the afternoon. Then V-Day came and we had cupcakes then TOO! I also loved Valentines day, because we were able to make Valentines boxes. I loved being as creative as possible. I remember my friend Jimmy Sherman in 4th grade made his V-day box a ROBOT! It was so impressive! So that is just a tidbit of why I love February......and NOW my anniversary will be the exact weekend before 2.7.09! February is going to be big month for Eric and I...maybe next year we will take the whole month off to celebrate!
So this year for my Birthday...I had a lunch shin dig with the Palmer ladies. We went to the Beehive Tea Room. ITs this darling place that has the best food and is so cute! Its very antiquish and old 40's. Very fun..we had sandwiches and hot chocoloates! I got some very comfy gifts. As for the evening I invited a few friends to come out and go to my favorite restraunt....RED IguanA!!! YAH! But it was no regular trip....we had to wear sombrerros for the occasion! It was fun...and pretty goofy! But if you know me you know I have no shame...so the hats were just perfectO! Eric, Jess, Britny, and Mikell all came out. I got my salad spinner from Eric I was totally stoked for! Jess got me a picture frame and picture to put up of Eric and I at work. She also got me an engraved box for my ring...I love it! Mikell got me this great glass flower that is black and silver from her art gallery. We had fun and enjoyed the bomb food at The Red Iguana:)

Following my fun and funky birthday...we had an "at home Valentines Day." We mostly tried to reorganize our apartment and get settled (we are still not done)! I used my new fondue machine for our dinner and we had a full fondue meal! We had cheese fondue to start with garlic loaf bread, then a mixed green salad w/ grapes and lemon feta...moving on to the meal we had a beef brothe foundu pot and we dipped potatoes, carrots, broccili, cauliflower and marinated steak with garlic herb rice as our side. To end we had chocolate fondue with marshmellow, rasberries and apples! IT was so bomb! The best part was the gift....I got Eric a gift that is for me as well! 2 tickets to NYC for next year HALLOWEEN! Time to start thinking of ideas......NOT!

2.7.2009

2009-02-10T13:30:00.000-08:00

OH MY GOSH...I am so happy! I cant believe how great these past 3 months have turned out. All of the hard work, turned into the most amazing day of my life. I know everyone says that about their wedding, but lets be honest....if you know me...this was seriously a way bigger deal than most weddings! I am so amazed, honored, happy that everyone came together to make this thing work. I am just so pumped! I am happy my family was able to make it. I am happy everyone was able to come together as friends and family and to celebrate love. I am happy the people I invited were all the people I love and cherish. And I am happy they were there to see who I choose to be with for all of eternity and who I love and plan to cherish the rest of my life and to infinity and beyond.............!!!!!

From the start of my week last week..it was busy bees again. Then Wednesday came, and the family started to roll in. Aunt Susan met brother Tom, I was able to introduce my mom and brother Mike to my favorite sushi restaurant, my best friend came out from NYC to meet the love of my life (and of course she approved), she was also able to meet all my favorite girlfriends here in Utah. My family came together to throw me a family shower...and it was FUN! My aunt was also able to meet my bishop and dear friend Robert.
I am jumping around but I don't really care. The day of my wedding I had so many wonderful people helping me out, Jess was my escort and photographer...she came over to take pics while I got ready....she is amazing and has not been feeling well. Abby did my makeup and brushed my teeth. Tahni did an amazing job on my hair and I loved it....and LIndz the best maid of honor on earth...did everything for me! She was my sidekick, go-to-girl, and shining best friend. That morning Lindz handed me a gift from Eric, he got me a locket that says "D" on the front and on the back says, "2.7.09 I love you" I cant believe I am married to such a stud and champion.

My bachelorette party was so Kick-butt! The girls did an amazing job...thank you! Mikell, George, Abby and Lindz thanks for working your tails off for such a great fun time. We had a timeshare in Park City that was sooooo big and cool for our fun sleepover/lingerie party. It was such a blast. I got some great gifts and played some great games. The night included an underwear game, fake strippers (yes fake) these guys in the hotel saw we had a sign on the door "D's Getting Married" these old dudes came in with a Ipod boom box and came and danced the waltz with me. I was almost ready to be mad at someone when I realized these jokers were just messing with us...no stripping involved, just some goofy pics! We went dancing that night and had some fun with glow sticks later....to say the least we didn't go to bed till 5am (not smart) but well worth it! Best party ever....

The temple sealing was amazing, spiritually charged, great, spectacular...oh my gosh words cant tell you! Grandpa and Grandma Wetherill were here and my grandpa was a witness for me at the temple ceremony...he was so sweet! Eric's dad was his witness.
When I walked in I felt so overwhelmed with the spirit, I felt like I was going to burst, I am so surprised I didn't cry the whole time...I did a little but not the whole time. My sweet quiet little 18-yr old brother was crying, my aunt was crying, Lindz, Abby, and Good ole' Grandpa Charlie was crying too! I am so blessed with good people.

Afterwards, my family/friends were outside and cheered us on! It was so GREAT! My cousin Julie was there with her friend Sandy and of the course the famous Brother Tom! We took some really great pics and I am so excited to see them!

The rest of the day Eric and I took pics, got settled into our hotel room and then came back out for pics at the Gallivan. I am just so happy the whole thing was amazing. Mel and her crew made the Gallivan into this cozy winter wonderland of fun. My whole family was so impressed by her and her greatness, not to mention her arm has been hurting her. She is seriously so amazing! NO really Mel...thank you for your hard work and talent. In times like these you can really tell who is really there for you, when you desperately need HELP! She was! No matter what we were doing she was on top of it and helped me find deals, book places, put together things, make sure everything was up to par, emotional support, and much more!

The reception was spectacular. My bishop held a ring ceremony that was so spiritual and amazing! The spirit was strong and alive....I hope everyone felt what I did. My bishop gave the most amazing ring ceremony speech, I was thankful my friends and family were able to be apart of it. Anyone who was there, will be able to tell you how amazing it was....and that was my bishop's first ring ceremony too!!! After that we had a wonderful dinner...Mel and I's sort of creation. It was this chicken with a white cream sauce with mushrooms and sun dried tomatoes, spring salad with pine nuts, Parmesan, tomatoes and balsamic wonderfulness, the side was penne pasta with cilantro, pine nuts, and Parmesan. I was extremely impressed with it! After we ate we had toasts by some wonderful people:) From Eric's side it was his dad and brother Jason and from my side it was my aunt and best friend Lindsay! Aunt Susan was nervous and kept telling Lindsay's that her's was going to be better. She was so nervous, we had to just go for the toasts soon or else she was going to burst! Eric's dad did a wonderful job, he had the mothers stand up and be recognized for who they were. Aunt Susan got up and did a great job at making us all laugh...she mentioned that "it was finally time to get to know Eric and stop doing background checks!" Eric's brother Jason, talked about how much he looked up to his brother and commended him on his choice:) Then Best friend Lindsay (Maid of Honor) took me back to memory lane and said so many amazing words about our friendship and our history together...she is amazing! P.S. Ladies I want copies of your speeches. Then Eric and I got up and gave a toast. Of course Eric's was amazing...its so crazy how some one can you love you so much. My toast was to him and how I am so excited to spend the rest of eternity with him...and how I KNOW he is going to be a great dad!
Right after we cut the cake...the most amazing cake I have ever seen! I was so proud that I designed it myself. I loved that cake! IT was classy on the outside and a party on the inside (confetti cake of course). Eric once said, "no one ever has confetti cake at there wedding." I thought to myself I am going to change that! Apparently the cake was good, because the top was not saved for our one year anniversary ( I stewed on that for about one night...I am now over it...my cake people are going to recreate the top for me next year!)
As for the rest of night...we danced our tooshies off! Eric and I's first song was "The Very Thought of You" by Natalie Cole...but sang by Eric's cousin Dawn. She did a phenomenal job and everyone thought it was a recording! I loved it. We had a dance lesson a week before that was a ton of fun...but we came to find out that I am horrible at dancing:( Eric is a stud! The dancing carried on and on... we had a little line dance, chicken dance (of course!), competitive dancing or men vs. ladies dance off (so fun and the ladies won of course!), and the dollar dance. We had so much fun....So much fun that I go so into the dancing I biffed on the dance floor in my nice dress. This fall was not the average fall I might add. I was working it out with my moms and my feet snagged my dress before I knew my feet slipped I had already face planted into the floor...the crowd was silent and the first thing I could hear was my mom say, "YOUR TEETH!" (she has always been worried that my teeth are going to chip) and of course that was the first thing on her mind! Eric came and scooped me up, and everyone was not sure whether to laugh or cry. I was hysterical and will have you know I was not embarrassed what-so-ever! It wouldn't be MY wedding unless I did something clumsy!
The night was great...I am so thankful for all the help I had. IT turned out better than I expected and now I am married to the most amazing man for all of eternity!

That's a wrap...I will post pics soon! Honeymoon to come in 3 weeks:)

Worker BEES........BUzZ!

2009-01-17T06:34:00.000-08:00

During this time of chaos....it has been a real crazy whirlwind of excitement, emotion and fun! Although a ton of worries and stress come along with events like this...it has been worth it! I enjoy the projects and the tasks and having a hard-core full time job is challenging to balance all this extra.

But right now I just want to thank the people that have been working so hard for me. My little worker bees....I thank you guys. The worker bees are the friends you always knew you had but in times like this....you REALLY didnt truly know who they were. They are the friends that would tell you that you had a booger hanging from your nose or the ones that would tell you that you had food stuck in your teeth. The worker bees just can't stop working!

The Bees to me have been the ones that have seen there is stuff to do that I had NO idea and they would just do it for me or show me the way. They are awesome leaders to me and would do anything to help! If I had a million dollars right now I would give it to them....but those little Bees probably wouldnt even except it!!!

For the bees...you know who you are....thank you for KEEPING IT REAL, suggesting ideas, dealing with my intensity, working on a different pace, taking me places, listening to my gripes, and ultimately HANGING TOUGH!

Oh but most importantly thanks so much for Eric being my number one KILLA Bee...he is the ride or die bee (thats Detroit thug lingo) and definetly my right hand BEE!

Scattered is my head!

2009-01-06T19:06:00.000-08:00

For all those married...I now understand the work that goes in! WHeeeeeW! But I do love it! Although as of today I think I officially broke out with a cold sore...YUCK=StreSS! So I need to chill out...Doubt that will happen:) Here is a quick rewind: Christmas was amazing! At first I was feeling a little shy as to spending it without my family, but Erics parents were so much fun to hang with and I had one of the best Christmases EVER! Eric got me a ton of stuff I needed and now I feel so complete having a Winter wardrobe:) His parents got me fun stuff for the wedding, a fun game for me and E, and much more:) I also got a few headbands that the girls make and I love them!!!! I loved Christmas! Moving onto New Years...E and I went to a fancy party where we didnt know anyone!! It was cool and such...that pretty much wraps it up.

Now...I am so busy with this darn wedding I hardly have time to breathe! I had my pics taken this past 2 weekends ago. Engagements and Bridals...let me know if you would like to see them. It was an awesome fun time and Eric's sister and cousin whom I owe big time did them for us! Thanks you two!!! Last weekend Mel (Erics mom) helped me finish getting registered at Target. After the wedding she is going to be my home decorator...YEAHHHH! So there is no reason to pick out things on my own. My job is killing me...it takes up so much space in my brain and is A TON of work! But whateve...its paying for this weddin! Sorry to those I havent called back or have missed....I really am! I will try to stay up and get back to you...I promise.

Love everyone lots and cant wait to see YOU!

Thanksgivin Fool!

2008-12-03T07:49:00.000-08:00

Yo Yo Yo.....Thanksgiving was the BOMB!!! This year I went to Eric's families house for the holiday feast. It was sooooo good! Eric's twin sisters Heather and Heidi came into town with there husbands and it was a grand event! Mel (Eric's mom) was unable to cook, so we took direction from her for the day. The feast that we created was amazing! Round 1 was a beautiful pear salad followed by sweet potatos (my fav), homemade mashed potatoes, gravy(i made:), amazing wonderful rolls (Heidi and I worked on carefully)turkey breast, with the best stuffing in the WORLD!!!! Seriously it was good....and very tasty I might add!

Backing up...however...our day consisted of wedding planning prior to the intake of this feast of all feasts! The girls and I went over some plans for the wedding as well as some delictable treats they are going to create from those great brains of creativity they were blessed with...thank you Heavenly Father for bringing me the Palmers!

Following din din...we went to see Twighlight the anticipated movie of this year! At least for the people I surround myself with. I have read all 4 books (well have about a chapter to go on book 4), but in any case...I was pumped for the movie. Although my honest opinion of the movie was 1 thumb up and 1 thumb down. Lots of random awkward acting, but I loved most the characters they choose....mainly EDWARD!

As for the rest of the holiday weekend...I spent shopping with Heather! So much fun! Then off to see another movie with our boys. Australia....and I will definelty give this one 3 thumbs up!

That about sums it all up! Word uP!

SAVE THE DATE....FEBRUARY 7, 2009!!!

2008-11-18T08:36:00.001-08:00

WOW!!! I AM SO EXCITED!!!! Really I am! Things are coming along so well....KNOCK ON WOOD!!! Eric's mom has been a great help and so has good ole' cousin Jess...as usual! Everyone has been helping in so many ways as well! Thank you thank you thank you!!!! Here is the rundown: I have my venue, we have a caterer, my photographers are my new sister and cousin to be...Sandy and Jess, my decorater...drum roll Magical Mel, flowers, linens, and chair coverings are in the works, and I have my date FEBRUARY 7, 2009!!!! And last but not least....I have my dress!!! For pics...I will send them to you! The only thing we do not have planned is the honeymoon and cake...which I feel is unnecessary but Eric really wants. So we are now taking donations! J/k I was thinking to raise extra money for the wedding...I would go out on Black Friday and set up a sign that says, "Help Pay for My Wedding!" I will have a boom box on the street corner with me playing love songs and wedding songs. I will wear a shirt that says, "Bride to Be." I would wear a white tutu and dance around. All the while I would have my friend Abner hold a hat and collect money. What do you think??? I think it will be a great gig! So watch out you might see some pics up here in the next week!
P.S. IF YOU DIDNT GET AN EMAIL FROM ME ABOUT THE SOUTHWEST SPECIAL THAT ENDS TODAY!!! ALL TRAVEL ROUND TRIP TO AND FROM SLC IS 50% OFF! CHECK IT OUT!!! http://www.southwest.com/hotfares/salt_lake_081115.html ADIOS AMIGOS!!!

Rings and Such!

2008-11-10T10:54:00.000-08:00

I love my ringSO much!!! I wanted something unique, different, somewhat simple and flat. Also wanted a lot of little stones for a dazzle look. Or as Eric's mom would say, "More bang for your buck!" I found this one about a month ago and Eric ordered it in to see it. He suprised me with it, obviously, at the engagement and I absolutely love it! I know its untraditional....BUT WHEN HAVE I EVER BEEN TRADITIONAL? The other pics are us at the lodge... I look kinda beat but whateve!

It's Official!!!!

2008-11-10T07:36:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to announce I am engaged to an amazing, great, cool, totally radical, handsome MAN...ERIC PALMER! This last Friday was a day to remember! Eric totally suprised me and proposed. Not only that but he did it in the most incredible way you could think of.
So heres the story....We were on our way out to go meet some friends of Eric's in Park City for dinner. Before we left he said we had a bit of time and wanted to go to Memory Grove. Memory Grove is downtown and is close to the capital. I usually do a lot of my running there. He told me his mom needed us to go there to check out this venue that could be a possible spot to get married if that day EVER comes. So I was like okay, and I was just chatting about the day being the usual Danielle in my own world. We got out of the car and we started walking toward the building and over to our right there was this monument all lit up. Eric was like whats that? I was like I dont know...(I actually couldnt see because I didnt have my glasses on). Eric was like I think its a Jewish prayer or something lets go see it. I was like really thats what a Jewish prayer is? He was like yah, I think so. So we headed over all the while I was talking not paying attention. We walked up a small path and there were hanging candles and ice on the ground. Still I had no clue what was going on. As we walked up some steps I saw more candles surronding the monument. I looked at him and said, "I dont think we should be here?" He looked at me and smiled and then before I knew it he was on his knee and he said, "Danielle my angel will you marry me?" I, OF COURSE, said "YES!" And then I looked to my left and there was a small table set up and in this glass case the ring was sitting there. He put the ring on we hugged. After that I still dont think it sunk in and for about 2 minutes straight I kept saying, "Are you serious!!!!" He kept smiling and laughing and said, "Yes, I want to spend the rest of my life making you happy." I was like, "are you sure?" And to my suprise he was;) We sat at the table and he had sparkling cider, prociutto and crackers, chocolates and a dozen white roses. Later, I asked him are we still going to Park City? HE was like yes, but not with my friends. HE said he had another suprise. We drove up to Park City and he took me to one of the best resorts in all of North America, Deer Valley, and an even more amazing place for dinner...Stein Eriksen. It was a beautiful cozy lodge restraunt.

The set up was incredibly detailed and beautiful. I couldnt have thought of anything else like it. It was the greatest moment of my life. I am so happy to be with such a noble man! HE is so great. Seriously he is so good to me and I am thankful he will be the man I spend eternity with!

Project Halloween...the Fun has to End!

2008-11-05T08:38:00.000-08:00

I loved Halloween! I am so happy how our costumes turned out. I might be a halloween freak but hey I am kid at heart and I had a great time planning, putting the ideas together, shopping for the stuff, and hanging out with my man KEN! So one thing I would like to say is, I love JESSICA POTTER! This is Eric's cousin that was an amazing help to me. Actually the hair we made for Barbie was all her, I had the idea and she DEFINETLY helped me execute it! Not to mention she has been quite sick through the whole thing and still she was able to help me on my fun project. THANKS JESS! I OWE YOU BIG TIME:)

We worked on this about 1 night a week starting at the beginning of October. Slowly but surely it worked. The Ken hair we didnt use. Eric tried it on and it looked more like a leatherhead. So we just went with his real hair which worked great cuz he already looked like Ken! The hair was made out of bed foam that rolls out. It already had waves in it so it worked well for the barbie hair.

The barbie outfit was EVERYTHING PINK! Pink sparkly lip stick, nail polish, pink sparkly ruffled dress, pink glasses, bows, shoes the works!!! I loved shopping for it and think I might start incorporating pink in my everyday. Not to mention it was a step up from last years very manly "Macho Man Randy Savage," costume ( I think Eric appreciated that).

As for Ken he was looking great with his all white suit, pink popped collar polo and pink aviator glasses. The tie he wore was made from...you guessed it.... pink sparkly fabric. Both of us had tags on to make sure, all to know we were Barbie and Ken Dolls.

Hope everyone had a great Hallween! I did for sure and I even won my works Halloween Costume with a costume from the shop...Carmen Miranda...or some would say the Chiquita Bananan Lady! Enjoy:)

Photo Shoot!

2008-11-05T08:31:00.000-08:00

So I told you there would be more....and here it is a few more pics as we got a little crazy in our "Coffee talk/Dynasty 70's costumes. Enjoy the madness:)

Sneak PEAK.....Shhhhhhh!

2008-10-31T08:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all!
I have been lacking on my blogging. But I have been extremely busy!!! Costumes, alumni group, new job, costume shop, personal training, and working on the Barbie & Ken costume. I love this month I think it is my favorite. The weather has been amazing here in UTah...semi cool but not cold and the amazing colors of fall. I love it, love it, love it, love it!!!!
One bad thing happened early in the month, Eric's mom got hit by a car. SHE IS FINE...DONT worry! She actually got hit crossing the street, along with a few others. She busted up her arm and broke her elbow and wrist. ITs been a long haul for her, but she has been a champ. She such a busy body during this month as well (with the costume shop and all) but she has had to take care of her injuries.
Last year Halloween, Erics fun sister said, "Lets dress like genies and go to the middle eastern restraunt downtown!" I was like heck yeah lets do it!!! IN the meantime, somehow we talked Eric's dad into going. All the while Erics mom joined up later....thats when I realized I was going to get along with these people REALLY WELL! I love there good wholesome fun-spirited attitude, and the facT that we both share a love for being GOOFY!

In any case, to keep the tradition of last year....I decided to bring the costumes to the Palmer household. I found these great 70's costumes at the costume shop and really went to town on them. They were really fun and everything down to the last detail was made possible from the costume shop! ERic's aligater 2-tone shoes and silk collared shirt with old car on the back to his suit that was very tight fitting I might add. My cosume consisted of a one piece 70's cat suit, shoulder pads included and a array of gold jewelry. To top it off Eric's sister was in town and made a fabolous dinner from Macaroni grill. It was a festive Sunday and a great time.....TO MEL!!! GET WELL!!!! HEY THAT RYMED:)

MORE PICS TO COME...the Barbie & Ken costume has been a work in progress and so much fun!!! HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!! LOOK FOR THE NEXT POST HERE IN A FEW:)

Favorite Fall!

2008-09-30T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Sorry its been so long. I have been really busy with job stuff ect...Side note: I did not end up as the event coordinator...STORY FOR ANOTHER DAY! I am currently at the sister company of my previous. I am a Jr. Asset Manager with Brighton Real Estate. I love it and it is going well! Other than that I have not been doing too much. But it is my favorite season...FALL! Fall is the best because it reminds me of starting college every year in the fall. I love football season and cider and pumpkins....AND BEST OF ALL HALLOWEEN! I have become quite obsessive about halloween in the past years. My best friend Lindsay and I have gone all out and usually get a good laugh from others. One year we were Buzz and Woody from Toy Story, we also were roller girls, party favors, 80's dance instructors, nerds, a devil and angel...hey this was the only year we lacked creativity. Last year I tried to recruit Eric to be Hulk Hogan as I dressed up as Macho Man Randy Savage! He ended up being a rocker, but I stayed strong to my idea. For those who do not know who Macho Man is...he is an 80's WWF wrestler AKA the "Snap into a Slim Jim Guy." It was awesome....here are some pics of me and the real macho man!

So my mom called the other day and said, "What are you putting Eric through lately?" Funny I dont know why she asked that:) So since, my sweet dear friend Lindsay lives in the big city of NEW York...I must find a new person to duo it up with me this O'Hallows Eve (Halloween that is)! So I had a few ideas...Marge and Homer Simpson, She-Ra and He-Man, Mr. T and Teen Wolf (this one would not be a pair but it would be prett funny). Eric said he didnt want me to dress like a man this year because last year you couldnt even tell I was a girl! We had to show his friends in california (I was meeting for the first time) pics of me on my camera. I thought it was funny...oh well! So this year....DRUM ROLL PLEASE...BUM BUM BUM BUM BUM (that is a drom roll) BARBIE AND KEN!!! YEAH!

The only catch with this costume is that I of course am going to go all out! I found this website with all homemade costumes. There was a lady who made her whole family into the Jimmy Neutron family. She made there hair out of some kind of foam. So I want to make barbie and ken hair out of this foam to make us look very cartoonish and fake. Here is the website and picture. http://www.coolest-homemade-costumes.com/homemade-halloween-costumes.html#c1

If anyone has any ideas on how to make this...let me know! Eric and his cousin Jess and I are going to storm through some ideas this week! Should be fun...cant wait!

As for the rest of my time...I have been watching football with some of my favorite people...the MSU Alumni group! State is doing well so far and I have been recently made into the Young Alumni Coordinator...Which I am very excited for! Love you all and GO GREEN!

Thank you for all your HELP!

2008-09-18T14:05:00.000-07:00

Great news! I got a job!!! Im super excited. First off let me say there have been so many people that helped me look, gave me leads, or was just a good sport listening to me gripe! In any case it ALL WORKED OUT! Which I am told over and over again when I get all panicky. It took longer than ever to find a job this time. For those who do not know, I have been working temporarily for the HR director who has been on maternity leave. Well....she just got back this week and this is also when I got a job....WHOOOooh! CLOSE Call! I first was offered a job at the sister company I work for as a JR. Asset Manager. I totally was going to take it and was excited! However, Eric and his sister Sandy hooked me up with this guy (Todd-UFirst Finacial) they both use to work for. They have ranted and raved about him! I had an interview with him and a few of his colleagues this last week. After I left, I just thought well that was a bust! Thinking I did not get it! So I have been positive about being an asset manager, because the economy is starting to be bad here in Utah. Well, last night I got an offer letter from Ufirst and they want me to be there Event coordinator!!! SO EXCITING!!! I will get to travel as well, which will be totally fun for me! The company is going international so that will be cool to grow with them as well! Im really excited for this opportunity and want to especially thank everyone for all there help! And a great big HUG to Sandy and Eric for helping me out! I was gettin a little scared these last 2 weeks and they came in like a CHAMP! Thanks guys:)

Date at the Theatre

2008-09-15T14:05:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was pretty mellow yellow. Eric, his mom, and I went to a play at there families theatre. We went and saw the play BIG. If you have seen the 80's movie then you will love this play! IT was super cute:) And a ton o' fun! All the characters were in 80's clothes, but it was a musical. It was a bit long...but I really enjoyed it. One of the boys that was "Josh's" best friend in the movie, looked just like him in the play. I totally took pictures of them. Enjoy!

Other than that...we were pretty bored this last weekend. Sunday was a lazy day; As you will see in the pictures where I did Eric's hair. What a good sport! He's a funny kid to hang out with. Mostly cuz he lets me be a spaz...and I love it!

Sorry so short...but not much to say today:)

WEIRD-O Weekend

2008-09-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

My Favorite Person in the WOrLD! P.S. Look at those TRICEPS!

Boy Scouts of America

Abner and I

Gangrene Productions

The Grandpa bored out of his Gord...NOTE his grandson with the Afro

Gangstas!

A Pagan Witch...I was formally invited to her Witch Cult...Thanks but no Thanks!

I really dont even know if this weekend was blog worthY??? But I will share anyways:) It was kinda a weird weekend. One of my good friends Abby AKA Abner invited me to go to this film festival in Layton. It was called Gangrene Film Festival. To start, we got there and it was a small outdoor venue that had an open theatre. The most annoying part of the whole thing was the introduction. Side note: the movies they show are not very long 10minutes max. So the production crew are known for putting on intro acts that are kinda weird or goofy. One year they had a group of square dancers start the show and apparently they had to stop them mid-way through because they were actually making fun of square dancers. SO....this year they had a guy that farted with his hands to the beat of songs!!! Okay, at first this was funny but after about 8 songs I was really getting annoyed! It was ridiculous. WE looked behing us and there was this grandpa with his son (that had an afro) that looked so bored, we had to sneak a pic of them. We had to come up with things to do to keep us from booing this man so Abner and I dared Eric to scream "ROCK ON" at the end of one of his songs. E is super shy but I told him I would give him a 2 hour back massage if he did it. He is a sucker for that. So he did it out of the blue...and Abner and I could not stop laughing:) IT was AWESOME!
THe next day, I went to the market and then to the Avenues Market. The avenues are an area that is known for being very liberal. It was pretty fun and Abner and I ran into a few characters. We saw someone walking a pot-bellied pig, met a Pagan witch, and took a few pics with some boyscouts. Later that night, my friend Mikell and I went to Red Iguana my absolute favorite Mexican restraunt...and that was about it! Thats a wrap! Love ya Guys!

Fishing, Smores and Celestial Treats! My Labor Day Weekend!

2008-09-02T18:51:00.000-07:00

Labor Day weekend was so perfect! This weekend Eric and I and his parents went to the WILD AND CRAZY STATE OF IDAHO! Actually Idaho is not very wild, for those who did not know I was joking:) Idaho was relaxing. We drove up after work on Friday and Mel (Erics mom) and I sat in the backseat chatting about our vampire book, the whole world is obsessed with. She is fun, and I love talking to her about whatever, especially cooking! Eric's dad (Craig Palmer) grew up in Idaho. He grew up fly fishing with his dad, brothers and uncles. This tradition has carried through to his sons. So I am thankful they invited me to share in this experience. We went up to a place called Mackay right on the Mackay river. Erics grandpa, RD, has a cute little quant cabin right there on the river. So the first night we got there, we went to Sammy's to get our fishing license. Side note to this story is...I learned a lot about Idaho from Craig this weekend, whether it be the state song, or any landmark, park, mountain, or past story. He was really happy/excited to share his home and memories with us! Anyways...moving on...when we got there Friday night, we were all in a hurry to get some fishing in before dark. So Eric took me out on the river with my waiters on and everything. When we stepped in the river, I wondered why I couldnt move my legs to walk in the river. It could have been that my size "extra large man waiters,' were weighing me down. As we walked across, I could feel my legs start to lift up, I dont know if this was because my legs are similar to sticks or if the current was just too strong. I kept telling Eric not to let go of me. At one point he walked away to cast out the line, as I stood right smack in the middle of the river, the current kept pulling my feet up. I screamed for him to come, and I kept my face so focused I couldnt look at him. He kept from laughing, but came and saved me. 2 seconds later, he tells me to take a step....so I did. Then down I go, in cold water, a sweatshirt, jeans and waiters! That happened about 4 times again, that same night. I wasnt so sure about this fly fishing thing! When I came back everyone had a good laugh and Eric's grandpa wondered why he left me in the middle of the current. I wondered the same???? Not to mention when my waiters filled up he told me to lay on my back and put my feet over my head! I learned the next day from Craig that is not how you do it:)
The next day, Eric, Craig and I went out fishing from about 8am to 1:30. LONG DAY! I told them I would go if I didnt have to get wet...It was so cold! So Eric spent the first half the day carrying me on his back or lifting me across when we needed to cross. One thing to know about fly fishing a river, is that you dont stay in one spot. So everytime we got to a good spot, we had to leave again. Which meant...I ultimately got wet. But the efforts by my boy Eric were still noble. I mean who takes there girlfriend out and carries them across??? Only E does...he is such a champ! It was a long day but I learned a lot. Eric and his dad took turns sharing their rod with me. I dont think they trusted me with my own:) I am kinda accident prone. Toward the end of the day I hadnt caught anything. But Craig was not having any part of that. He had determination to help me...so he cast it out for me in some perfect spots, and finally I caught a fish!!! With Craig's help of course;) Dont tell him that. He is such a humble and happy man...he bragged and bragged about me catching a fish. After our long day and our walk back via highway we came home and had a great fish lunch, rainbow trout that is. Later that night, Eric and his dad went back out again, and Mel and I stayed back and chatted, read, and made dinner. Later on, Eric and I made our "teamwork smores" and everyone got chocolate all over their face. There is a secret to our smores...you will have to try out some day!
The rest of the trip was spent going to church and visiting with Craig's family in Idaho. They were great people and reminded me a lot of my own family. We had a good time and the Palmers are some fun-luvin people!

Triathlon Time!

2008-08-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

Me trying to be Granola

NOT a HAPPY CAMPER!

Moving on to our end of August anticipated event of the summer....DRUM ROLL PLEASE....The Jordanelle Triathlon! Boy was that crazy! But so so so much fun! I actually loved it. Toward the end I was really getting annoyed with all the training, especially all the bike stuff! IT really has been a hassle, not to mention expensive! Shoes, helmets, bike shoes, bikes, swimming passes, wet suits and then training training training! Well, we finally did it and accomplished it too! The first thing out of Erics mouth was, "that will be the last time I do that!" He did so well though, I was really proud he did great! AND he could of almost beat me if he wouldn't have used his transition areas as breaks! Most people transition from swim to bike in a little under a 1min 30 sec. But Eric used about 6 minutes to rest...and go to the bathroom...and wait for me. Funny that guy:) Oh! I forgot to mention the wetsuits...yah the wetsuits. Well originally the suits were going to cost us $45 to rent for one day! So I was like "NO WAY, I WILL FREEZE, I AM NOT SPENDING ANYMORE MONEY ON THIS THING!" However, I found wetsuits to rent for $12...the only catch...they were white water rafting wetsuits! HA funny! Eric and I looked like the biggest geeks in the tri! ENJOY THE PICS OF THAT. All in all we both finished and did great... Im ready for another one! And I told myself if I get another job soon enough, I can do the next one September 9! Cross your fingers I find a job soon! Check out this website...www.zazoosh.com, then go to view pictures, then go to Park City Jordanelle Triathlon, then type in 47 for Danielle and 295 for Eric. These are the best pics. Wish you all could have been there to cheer us on!

The Official One Year Mark-August 15th, 2008

2008-08-28T10:04:00.000-07:00

1 Year of Dating!

The much anticipated one year mark! This marks one year Eric and I have been dating. Just to fill you in Eric and I met at a missionary farewell party. Actually that is when Eric met me! I met him 2 other times he doesn't remember. It must have been because I was a brunette:) Just Kidding...Eric is great guy! Actually he is fantastic, he is super funny and I bet no one would ever guess it. Really I am one day going to dedicate a post about all the funny things he does. As for the 1-year date...it was really fun! Eric picked me up and didn't tell me where we were going. He came in with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. I love flowers by the way! We went over to Cafe Rio where he grabbed our pickup food and we drove up the canyon. We went up to Silver Springs lake next to Brighton Ski resort. We forgot jackets so we just walked to the lake quickly and came back to the car. It was so cold I could not believe it! So we ate our Cafe Rio and I gave him his gift. I made him a love letter made of construction paper....I'm kinda short on money these days :) It was a beautiful night and we just sat in the car and talked and hung out.I love that KID! For all to know he is so patient, loving and kind. He has taught me so much in life. I think he is a great example and he is has become my best friend!

Home Sweet Michigan

2008-08-27T13:12:00.000-07:00

I just had a great trip to Michigan a few weeks ago. I brought Eric home to meet the troops! It was good visit. We were completly worn out after we got back, but well worth seeing all my friends and family. The trip started with a wild canoe trip in Grayling. We went canoing on the Au Sable river with Tommy's family. We had a good time and Eric had a good experience with Michigan mosquitos. While we were in Grayling, we had a chance to visit Grandma and Grandpa Wetherille and Uncle Joe of course! It was nice seeing there place, it looks beautiful...its like a summer get-away. We had a nice dinner in Traverse City and had a chance to get all caught up!

Au Sable River Loungin at the Cabin

After the canoe trip it was CRUNCH TIME! I had Eric running around everywhere he didnt know what to do with himself! We visited my Mom & Michael, Grandma and Grandpa Bates, my brother Todd & Heather & the kids, Julie & Terry, and Stacey...all in 2 1/2 days!!! It was crazy! Eric had a chance to golf with Michael and Tom. Heather and I made a superb dinner one night, and we got to play and hang with the new edition Dominc.

Lone Star with the Bates/Ellis Crew The Candelaria Bunch

Terry and Julie The Famous Marshall Fountain

As a grand finale to our trip we hit up the Detroit. First though, we had to have middle eastern food in Royal Oak...MY FAVORITE!!! Next stop....TIGERS GAME! Eric worked his way through getting us the ultimate best seats from some sketchy detroit scalpers. Eric's friend who is a resident in Ohio came up for the game. We had dinner in Greek town...and ended too late to see my friends...so WE SLEPT AT THE AIRPORT! It was an awesome trip...but very tiring!

The Tigers Game

Summer Rewind

2008-08-26T13:57:00.000-07:00

To start....I have alot of adventures from this summer! I need to catch everyone up. First off, I moved back from California in April just in time for summer in Utah. Which I might add, I love! There are so many things to do here in the summer. Everyone gets so excited around here for summer, as I am sure everyone does. For me, I have found my niche here in the summer. I love the Farmers Market for one. Every Saturday morning all the vendors and farmers set up an open market and everything is so cheap! I get so much good stuff. Last year I made my own salsa, rasberry shakes, and created a new concoction of rasberry pancakes...A HIT! Don't get me started on the market, I will talk for days about it. For those of you who don't know...I love to cook and I love to cook healthy meals. SO the market is something I look forward to. Summer to me also means shedding those winter pounds and running running running! This year I talked Eric (the boyfriend) into running the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 5k run. It was great and very inspiring. Many people that participated, wore the names of survivors and those who didnt survive on their shirts. There were also many women there with bald heads from the chemo. So the run was very rewarding and extremly inspiring. As some of you know or not, I have also been personal training. IT has been AWESOME! Fitness and diet are my passion and I am happy to say I am finally pursuing it! I have been working with a trainer, Surba, for the entire summer. He has been a great mentor and teacher to me. I train a group of models and actors on Monday nights and it has been a great learning lesson and a ton of fun! I am looking to take the N.A.S.M (National Academy of Sports Medicine) exam soon. I first need to save up for it and it will take about 3 months to study for....extremly hard but I am looking forward to it!

Free Concerts at the Temple

Aunt Sues Visit: Carriage Ride in SLC

Movies in the Park

Goonies and a Picnic....Doesn't Get much Better!

My Lady Friends

Our Bad Attempt at going to a Concert

Reward Night: Fondu!

4th of July Games at the Ranch

....And the Winner

E's Cousin Biting iT

Fishing w/ a Stick at the Ranch

Moving on to Mid summer....4th of July. This year for 4th of July I went with Erics family to there ranch. YES they own a huge piece of land
with these 2 huge homes that are equipped with a hot tub, 4 wheelers, a jeep, basketball court, and horses. Not to mention, Capital Reef an amazing national rock park is right there. So we had a great time we played 4th of July games (gunny sack races, pole balancing, pass the apple, sprints, wheelbarrel races and find the frozen sock). The games were great, his family is fun ,and they are great cooks...we ate like kings for days! Good times. Afterwards Good Ole' Aunt Susan came for a visit with the troops. We had a great time, all 5 of them stayed in my one-bedroom apartment. It was fun, I also got an air conditioner, a vacumm, a food chopper, a crock pot, a toaster, a microwave, and a ton of love on their visit. We saw the tabernacle choir rehearse, went to the waterpark, and took a stroll around SLC by way of carriage. In conclusion...there there have been summer concerts, movies in the park and Still to come Michigan Trip...1 Year Anniversary...Triathlon!!! Hold on to your pants...cuz this is gonna get good:)