Life is Good...

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-07-05T05:59:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it is JULY already! How time flies!!! Two important events the beginning of July....of course the 4th of July celebrating our freedom and this great country we live in AND my birthday! Been a fun month so far. Thoughts....

- My new passion is TRX. I did a post on my fitness blog on TRX. All I can say is I love it. If any of you come to St. George, we will do a workout together. By the pool. How awesome is that?

- Emma and Gabe spent a week camping with my family (note, there is one child I DO NOT recognize in this picture....)

- Getting used to the heat in sunny St. George. In fact, I sit typing this by the pool...I know, rough...

- Emma asked Gabe why it is so hot in St. George. Gabe's response: "Because we are closer to the ozone layer." We might need to do some extra homework this summer.

- Birthday fun included a shopping trip to Vegas! We are so close now. Just me and Jesse!

- We decided a show was in order for the birthday celebration and went to see the Cirque Du Soleil show "LOVE". Amazing. Highly recommend it.

- Routine. Getting the kids on more of a routine this summer. They need it and so do I.

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-06-22T06:25:00.000-07:00

Oh boy....moving is hard! Change is hard, but good. I keep reminding myself of that. This week my thoughts have turned to...

- Summer!!! Yeah - I think it is officially here, right?? I am excited for our first summer in St George.

- Speaking of summer, this salad speaks summer to me. Check it out HERE.

- Parents: My parents and Jesse's parents were troopers and helped us back up and load the moving truck. I love them.

- I have decided that you should pretend you are moving once every 6 months. I threw away SO much stuff! Stuff I didn't need. (Jesse calls it crap)

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-06-14T08:00:00.000-07:00

Thinking today...

- That I would like to go back to Disneyland and not have to face the real world....and spend a week with this cute face:

- Boxes....I need boxes! If anyone has any extra boxes, send them our way!!

- Finding your way around a new town is HARD - especially when it comes to grocery shopping!

- Lazy Saturday afternoons by the pool. I need more of those.

- Looking for houses.

- The headphone jack won't work on my phone and TV is getting boring while I workout.

- Missing my Treehouse Peeps.

- Since moving, my kids have probably watched as much TV in 3 weeks as they have in the past 3 years!

- Airconditioning...we would melt without it!

Princess Emma

2011-06-12T08:25:00.001-07:00

Emma turned 5 this year and for her birthday we took a trip to Disneyland....just Emma and Mom! We stayed at Paradise Pier (I highly recommend paying the extra money when you have little ones who don't want to spend all day at the park) and literally had a ball! Here is all the Disney fun we had:

- Rides, rides, rides....her favorite was Splash Mountain (which scares the bajeepies out of me) and the Matterhorn. She is a daring little thing!

- World of Color...we did a special Italian dinner that night and then got front row seating to the show which was spectacular!!!

- Bippity, Boppity Boutique Princess Make-over...probably the highlight of her trip. She loved getting all princessed up. That hair-do stayed for about a week. I know....gross. But she loved it.

- Meeting Mickey...a MUST on her list.

- Character Breakfast....she got to meet most of the princesses in one shot! She also got sang to and had a brownie for breakfast.

- She got lots of attention from the Disney workers and just people in general when she wore her "birthday button" and was dressed up as a princess. Everyone told her Happy Birthday and called her Princess Emma. It was really cute and made the trip that much more special.

- I love this little bug! I wish I could do this every year!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, EMMA!!!!

Flashback Friday...

2011-06-03T07:26:00.000-07:00

I know that ALL moms say they have the cutest babies, but let's get real here...most newborns ARE NOT cute. At all. Except for mine. Look how stinking cute Emma was....

She is 4 days old in this picture. It is probably my most favorite photograph of her. All that black hair. Wide eyed. I love this girl so much.

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

On my mind....

- I wish I would have watched American Idol this season. Scotty is a cutie-patootie! His number with Tim McGraw was amazing!

- My jaw hurts from chewing so much gum. I have been driving a lot and chewing gum keeps me awake!

- I really want to go back to Hawaii....

- Taught my last class at Treehouse on Saturday. One of the hardest things I have I ever done. I love those members so much. It is incredible how close you can get to a group of people over 7 years of teaching. Bawled. My. Eyes. Out.

- Someone is celebrating a special day this week! Here she is at 6 months old. She turns 5 this year. My baby is 5 :(

- Packing. Still just thinking about it and taking no action...

Guess who has a birthday this week??

2011-05-30T08:30:00.000-07:00

Let's Celebrate!!!!

Time Flies...

2011-05-27T05:16:00.000-07:00

14 years ago last week (May 17, to be exact) Jesse proposed to me. What a wild ride it has been!

Some things you may or may not want to know about us.....

- We met at Idaho State University our Freshman Year of college.

- We only went on one "real" date before he left to serve a mission for our church. It was to a Brooks and Dunn Concert.

- We wrote every week for 104 weeks while he served his mission in Brazil.

- He returned home on May 16. (yes, you do the math)

- He proposed in front of the Idaho Falls Temple. On one knee.

- His mom picked out my wedding ring.

- We were married 2.5 months later.

- We have been best friends from day one.

- The ride is sometimes bumpy, but we hold on for dear life!

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-05-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

Not feeling like I can really organize my thoughts this week....lots of craziness! But here are a few things going through my mind.

- Friends: I have the most incredible friends. Friends who are helping me with my kids while Jesse and I are traveling back and forth. Friends who are offering to help in any way they can - and I know they mean it. Friends from the gym who I will miss like crazy. These are my peeps from the gym....we are all there at 5AM! LOVE. THESE. LADIES.

- My Mom and Mother-In-Law: So sweet to come stay with my kids. What would I do without these to women?

- Justin Bieber: What you say? I know, I know.....but isn't he cute? We watched the Justin Bieber movie this weekend. I didn't know much about him, but he has a pretty cool story.

- Colbie Caillat's new song, I DO. I could listen to it all day long. You can listen HERE.

- Packing: The thought has crossed my mind, but I try to push it immediately out. We got a lot of crap in our house! Ahhhhhh!!!

St George Update

2011-05-11T10:05:00.000-07:00

Quick update on our move to St. George! Here's an overview:

- The company that Jesse is a trainer for (and I do their nutrition side) is relocating to St. George. It is a weight loss retreat, so sunny St. George is PERFECT! It is Real Life Fitness and Health.

- The retreat will be ran out of Green Valley Resort. Ya'll should come visit me. Just sayin.

- Jesse moves this weekend. I will be back and forth until the kids are out of school.

- We will TRY to sell our home. (try is the key word here)

- The kids are super excited - Emma thinks it's a vacation.

- I am incredibly sad to leave our home, friends, Treehouse members, church, etc...but am also extremely excited for the change.

- Our other company, LIVE THE LIFE, continues to run just as usual. It is online, so we can do that one anywhere. Bonus!

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-05-10T05:00:00.000-07:00

This week one thing is on my brain......

We are moving to St. George! Hold on tight - the next weeks are going to be crazy!!

I also made a yummy new recipe which is DE-lish! Garlic Shrimp Polenta....find it HERE. You have to. Even my kids liked it!

ThinkingTuesday...

2011-05-03T06:10:00.000-07:00

What a week....I had a skip in my step this week as the sun peeked its head out. Can it be true? Is Spring finally here???

Thinking about....

- My Mom - one of the most beautiful and Christ-like people I know. Along with my Dad. She's cute, huh?

- Figured out how to make creamsicles - YUMMY!!!! Go HERE to learn how.

- Gabe's 5th Grade Campout.

- Emma is reading to me. My baby is reading....how did that happen?

- The land of the free. I am proud to be an American!

- MS Walk 2011. I carried this little stinker for the majority of the 3 miles. The weather was okay for us - it did snow part of the time.

Happy Week! I hope it is sunny in your neck of the woods!

Flashback Friday...

2011-04-29T07:37:00.000-07:00

With all of the High Schools celebrating Prom lately, I began to reflect on my own Prom dates. The beautiful dresses, the flowers, the all day dates (did anyone else have those? Insane), late nights, dancing with friends, Promenade, etc.... In reflection I had to share this picture from my Junior Prom. I just couldn't help it. I might regret it later, though.

click to enlarge to get a good laugh

FACTS:

- Junior Prom: Spring of 1993

- Date: Jed Smith

- Jed's Hair: Permed

- My Hair: Looks like a bad version of Marge Simpson

- Bobby Pins: 210

- Hairspray: 1.25 bottles (that is for both of us)

- Date: All day and involved bowling and Italian Food

- Curfew: Breakfast (hey - I was a good kid and my mom trusted me)

I got a good laugh when I saw this, I hope you do, too! Happy Friday!

Thinking Tuesday...

2011-04-26T07:03:00.000-07:00

I think Spring might be coming. I'm hoping. I need it. My soul needs it. Here are some things filling my thoughts this week....

- Easter....we had 2 incredible talks in Sacrament meeting on Easter Sunday. The messages are still playing over and over in my head as they have touched my heart.

- Sunday I wore a bracelet I gave to each of my sisters and my mom last Fall on a Girls Trip. They are always on my mind. I love each of them and always want them to be happy. Wonder where we will go on our next trip??

- The 2011 MS Walk. Our family signed up for this to support those we love with MS. Particularly our cute friend, Tara, and Jesse's dad. It is happening this Saturday. Come join us!

- Weeds...we've got A LOT of them. And they need to go! I see lots of weeding in our future.

- Emma's Birthday. She will be 5 this year! It is coming up and guess where I would love to take her? Here's a clue....

- Jesse and I have been talking lately how Gabe turns 12 this year. 12. How did that happen? He gets the Priesthood this year. Whoa.

- Creamsicles....trying to figure out how to make my own version of this yumminess. I'll let you know when I nail it.

- Pizza Pinwheels...Gabe is obsessed with these. Super and easy and yummy. ALL ages will love these! Confession - I love these. You can find the recipe here.

- Carrie Underwood singing "How Great Thou Art" with Vince Gill. I am a country girl at heart and this song brought me to tears. Watch and listen to it here.

- Summer - oh wait, haven't I included this like the past 4 weeks?? Can't wait!

Flashback Friday

2011-04-22T07:55:00.000-07:00

This picture brings a flood of memories with it....

It is April 2000, and Gabe is about 7 months old. The reason it brings a flood of emotions is that we had just brought him home from the hospital after a fight against Bacterial Meningitis. I can't help but smile when I see that smile on his face. We missed that smile for about 3 weeks while he was sick. I love my baby boy...even if he is almost bigger than me now!

Thinking Tuesday....

2011-04-19T15:58:00.000-07:00

New week...new thoughts....

- Summer...of course

- Spring break - my kids were on 2 different weeks (why??)

- Salads - try this Sweet Mustard Dressing so yummy!

- Got a note from the school that said there were only 34 days of school left. What???

- Tangled: can't get enough of this movie! I love it!

- Easter...why is pastel candy so good?

- My kids smell like puppies right now.

Oh, just wait...

2011-04-17T16:08:00.000-07:00

This little firecracker will grow up to be a fashion designer someday. I gave up years ago trying to dress her. Yes, she was already picking her own outfits out when she was about 3. And they were creative, mismatched, but somehow she pulled it off even at a young age. I don't want to stifle her creativity. She is very carefree and creative. I want her to be "Emma", not who anyone else wants or thinks she should be. I love that about her! Just wait, one day you will see "Emma Allen Designs".

Weekend Funny...

2011-04-04T07:06:00.001-07:00

This weekend was Conference, so we decided to visit Mom and Dad (and conveniently leave the princess for a few days.)

Mom and Dad still live in the house I grew up in and it contains so many memories for me. While we were watching Conference, I hopped up to use the bathroom. When I went to leave the bathroom, the door would not unlock! Now - it wasn't a new knob....same old knob I have locked and unlocked a million times. But it seriously would not budge. So, I did what any women stuck in a bathroom would do. I started screaming and pounding on the door. "MOOOOOOMMMMM!" I actually started giggling because it reminded me of when I was younger and there was no toilet paper. "MOOOOMMMM! I NEED SOME TOILET PAPERRRRR!"

Luckily, Jesse heard me and came to the door. In his calm voice, he answers me, "You're going to be yelling for a while." He tried to help me unlock the door and then we were just laughing our heads off. Then ALL of the troops came....Mom, Dad, Ray, Paula, Ashley, Gabe....I kept overhearing Gabe say "This is going to be a great story tomorrow at school!" Great.

To make a long story short, Jesse had to get a ladder, climb through the window and take the entire doorknob off. All the while laughing.

My parents bathroom door now has a rather large peephole. Sorry Mom.

Thinking Tuesday....

2011-03-29T19:10:00.000-07:00

Filling my thoughts this week....

- I have a canker on the top of my mouth that is killing me!

- Got a couple of new purses by Miche and love, love, love them.

- Spring break...and staying home. I think that is breaking Gabe's heart, but that is life sometimes.

- Emma's BFF's birthday party tomorrow!

- Listening to these 3 men and others this weekend. Can't wait to be uplifted....

- Jesse's broken phone...to wait or not to wait for the iPhone 5?

- My Mom's homemade bread.

- My ice maker broke - people this is a big deal. We use A LOT of ice.

- The sun. Still.

Thinking Tuesday....

2011-03-22T20:17:00.000-07:00

Thoughts filling my mind this week....

- Sunshine...I need some.

- Gabe's Maturation Day....so glad Jesse is attending that one.
- Strawberries...we are going through oodles! But happy my kids love them.

- Intervals....Spin class is intervals this month. Love me some intervals.

- Emma's new make-up...can you say drag queen? I was too embarrassed to snap a shot.

- Spring...come on, already!

- Taxes...still haven't done mine yet. Ugh.

- Biceps...I tried a slower pace for lifting today. Pretty sure my hair isn't getting washed this week.

- Jam...I'm out of my Mom's homemade raspberry jam and need more.

- Sleep...I need more of it.

- Friends...we had our best friends from college come stay 2 nights with us last week. Don't you just love those friends that you can pick up right where you left off with?

- MS Walk...we signed the whole family up. April 30 - come join us!

Why??

2011-03-17T19:15:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about blogging lately.....I love me some facebook, but I miss my blog. I have slacked...big time.

I have always wanted to do a Fitness Blog, which I did, but still want to post on my family blog. So my question is, what keeps you blogging? What inspires you? What do you post?

I can think of one for sure.....I want to document these little lives and the funny things they say.

Life is flying by. It kind of scares me. How about you?

I'm not cheating on you....

2011-03-02T08:54:00.000-08:00

I have started another blog. There is no other way to say it. I am not cheating on this blog. This will always be my family blog, but I started another one to share fitness and nutrition tips for you and your family and just things in general that I love that relate to fitness. It is called Healthy Mama Happy Mama. Come on over and see me there and become a follower! Go HERE.

Somebody...

2011-02-06T12:48:00.000-08:00

...had a birthday this weekend....

Isn't he so handsome? Emma was trying to figure out which one of us was older. She guessed Dad - her reasoning: he is bigger and stronger!

We didn't have anything planned....story of our lives. We both work a lot then just want to spend time with the kids when we aren't working. So, on a whim on Saturday, we headed to Park City for some shopping and then to Salt Lake to spend an evening at Little America.

Such a beautiful hotel. The kids couldn't wait to get there. After every store they would ask, "Are we going to the hotel now?" They just wanted to swim and watch TV. And Emma packed about 12 outfits for one night.

A much needed weekend of just "US". I think we need to do it more often.

Family Pics

2010-12-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

Most of you know that I rave every year over our photograper, Becky Kimball. She has a great eye and always captures my family perfectly. We never know where to take the pics at, so we let her decide. This year it was in a grove of trees and I wanted a more "winter" look. No snow, but we got the bare trees. Last year we were at a condemned house (those are some of my favs) and the year before was an alley in Lehi. We love you, Becky!

Here are some of my favs....

She cracks me up...

2010-10-27T05:04:00.000-07:00

This girl is just full of personality...

Outfit of the week...is kind of 80's-ish. Don't ya think?

Girls Weekend

2010-10-24T16:08:00.000-07:00

When my mom and dad left on their mission a little over 18 months ago, we had the discussion that when they came home we were taking a girls trip -- sisters and mom. (I think dad may have been slightly offended when he found out he wasn't invited.)

So, last month after mom and dad came home, we starting planning. Destination: Park City

Overnight Digs: Escala at The Canyons

We spent a fair amount of time at the outlet stores shopping. We did a fair amount of damage. **note to self....next year we will need more vehicles to carry shopping bags home.

Of course we had to eat (although we would rather be shopping!) Do we look alike?

I had my sweet friend, Shar, from Bags that Fit come up with a darling bracelet just for the girls. They are amazing at that store!! Shar called her jewelry specialist in a different state and had these darling charm bracelets made.....JUST FOR US! The little picture is of 2 girls and it says "sisters" underneath.

And some pampering time.....pedis for all! We even sang "happy birthday" to one of the girls there! (we did not get an encore.)

Our cute toes!

So what do you say ladies for next year??? Hawaii?

Thinking....

2010-10-19T20:50:00.000-07:00

...that I need this for my bed for Christmas. Does anyone out there change their bedding for the holidays? Might be fun.

Just Peachy

2010-09-30T06:58:00.000-07:00

Okay, I'm going to admit it....my kids are picky eaters. I talk about Nutrition and healthy eating ALL day long, but it is so hard sometimes to convince my kids that they do not need to eat out of a box. Gabe hears the word "healthy" and he wrinkles up his nose. Sigh. Enter.....the Peach.

We're obsessed over here. Emma LOVES them. Sliced up with some Truvia sprinkled on top...oh, yeah baby. I'll take it while it lasts.

Pack Rat...

2010-09-22T19:44:00.001-07:00

This pile o' crap is what I found under my bed courtesy of the "Pack Rat" aka: Emma.

How long do you think she was storing this stuff and what do you think she was going to do with it??

Is it really over??

2010-08-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

Fall is in the air. Really? Is summer gone? Yes, I think it is. What did we do...where did the time go? As I look back at my summer pictures, here is what my kids did:

Tied each other up:

Played dress-up (actually, this is what she really wears.)

Catching frogs in our window wells (scary that I don't really know any of these children in the picture?!)

Swimming.

Goodbye summer. See you next year.

Hidden Gem...

2010-08-15T17:06:00.001-07:00

Well, come Friday last week, Jesse could tell that I was in need of a time out. Ever have those days/weeks? Yep - I had one and I needed out! So....off we went to a getaway not too far from our home. Destination: Park City, more specifically, The Canyons Ski Resort. I had no idea such a little gem was waiting there to be explored. We've made many trips to Park City, but never stayed at the Canyons. I am taking more time outs....SOON!

This trip entailed:
- School shopping at the outlet mall
- Cafe Rio
- Laying by the pool
- Sleeping in

Next trip:
- More sleeping in, perhaps a nap
- More pool and barbecuing by the pool
- Exploring the hills - perhaps a hike
- Some fun with the kids on Main - they love the Alpine Slide.

Ah....Bring on the next week. I'm ready.

Happy Anniversary!

2010-08-01T09:05:00.000-07:00

This wedding picture still makes me giggle every time I see it. It looks like it was taken in 1977, not 1997. 13 years.....what a ride! Love you, Jess.

Bike parade...

2010-07-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

Our Primary had a bike parade for Pioneer Day last week. The kids were so excited to decorate their bikes and ride from the church to the park.

*notice what Emma is wearing...it was like 100 degrees that day.

Calling all women...again...

2010-07-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

Ok girls - over a year ago I posted the blog post below when a friend of mine, Kristi, and I started a fitness and nutrition company. Well, one year later we are still growing and want to continue to help thousands more women. Some have asked me what we do and how they can take part. I am having a little Girls Night Out Thursday, July 29 @ 6:30 pm at my house. Come try some of the yummy food and find out how to lose weight, keep it off, and love your new body. Visit our website to see more before and afters and register for the event. So....here is a repost:

As you can imagine it is not without a little hesitancy and a lot of anxiety that I'm putting these pictures out there for the world to see. As many of you know there has been a "life-style" change at the Allen house. The change wasn't easy at first, but the results were exactly what I wanted and I couldn't be happier. Since making this change I've lost 17.6 pounds, but more importantly I lost 12.88 % of body fat, 5 inches of my hips, 3.5 inches from my waist, and 2.75 inches from my thighs. More importantly I gained a new found respect for setting and achieving goals, gained greater self-discipline and respect, and a new appreciation for my abilities. So if a chocolate loving, candy craving, sugar devouring, sweet-aholic like me can do it so can you, and that is the real point of this blog. Together with my good friend Kristi Attaway, we've started a new company to help women maximize their potential and achieve their fitness goals. Bring a friend....You'll have a blast discovering you're true potential, and you'll be able to do it while being accountable to your friends.

Before:

12 weeks after:

Graceful Exit...

2010-07-23T21:58:00.000-07:00

You have to watch her exit after the jump...classic Emma!

10 places I want to visit....

2010-07-06T20:52:00.000-07:00

1. Italy -- just sounds romantic.
2. Turkey -- heard it is amazing.
3. Greece -- with Susan and Wayne, of course.
4. Boston in the fall -- one of my favorite seasons.
5. Oregon Coast -- I went when I was little, but would appreciate it more now.
6. Brazil -- Jesse served his mission there. (although he is scared to take me)
7. Tahiti -- who doesn't want to go there?
8. Washington DC -- in the spring preferrably to see the cherry blossoms.
9. Texas -- go big or go home.
10. Outer Banks -- I keep seeing stickers on people's cars for this...I feel like I am missing out. Am I?

Ten Summer Memories from Growing Up...

2010-06-29T16:58:00.000-07:00

There are just some things that do more than just remind me of summer...they MEAN summer to me. Here is my list of "ten" that mean summer to me:

1. Summer vacations....usually camping (for DAYS) and poofy hair.

2. Gardening. We always planted a garden. Beans, Peas, Corn, Potatoes, Radishes....there is NOTHING like fresh veggies from the garden.

3. The smell of alfalfa. Can you smell it? Ah...it reminds me of home and summer....and it's even better when it's raining.

4. Birthdays. My birthday is during the summer. In July, to be exact. That means birthday parties at family reunions or at the park. (do you like the hair and jumpsuit?)

5. Summer jobs. My summer job was cleaning buses with my Dad. Now, before you go, "ew", it was the dream job for a teenager for summer. 7am - noon. Then play, play, play. The best part was doing it with my Dad. (he is still the best bus mopper I know of. AND - he let me take as many Mountain Dew breaks as I wanted.)

6. Fish. We went fishing during the summer. I can still remember looking forward to my mom frying up the trout. In butter. Mmmmmm....

7. Open windows. We had no air conditioning (say what?), so all windows were open at night. To smell the alfalfa, of course. And to hear the sprinklers in the fields.

8. Allergies. From the alfalfa.

9. Sheep. Oh, yes. I did sheep 4-H. And hated it. How could I with that cool shirt and belt?

10. Peas and Potatoes. My mom is the bomb at making peas and red potatoes from scratch. All from the garden and so delicious.

Ten for Tuesday

2010-06-22T20:14:00.001-07:00

Okay - I miss blogging. I thought I would try something different for a while. Why not 10 for Tuesday. We just got back from Hawaii, so I am going to list my top ten favorite things about our trip to Kauai (in no particular order.)

1. Hiking - we took a hike every morning. The great thing about the island of Kauai is that every shore seems like a different island - different terrain and climate. So weird. (this is a picture of our first hike on the Nepali Coast.)

2. Swimsuits all day long.

3. Listening to the ocean. This was the view from our room.

4. The weather - 80's the entire time.
5. Mermaid's cafe - the best Ahi Tuna wraps on the island.
6. Time with just the hubby.
7. Billie Madison Pizza. Smoked Fish. Onions. Gorgonzola. Brought new meaning to bad breath.
8. Laying by the pool...reading...drinking limeades.
9. The roosters. Had to be mentioned. They are everywhere. It is the most bizarre thing ever.
10. Laid back nature of the islanders. Brought a piece home with me which lasted about 45 minutes. Must go back to get more.

Someone is now four....going on sixteen.

2010-06-06T19:09:00.001-07:00

She insisted on a beauty salon birthday party (making Grandma Susan proud, I'm sure).

The festivities included make-up, hair, painting nails, making headbands (Emma's had 2 flowers on each side, of course....) and frosting cupcakes.

Our special friend, Kristen, who helped us. (she and I were exhausted by the time the party was over!)

Why is it that the birthday girl is always super grumpy by the end of the party?

Love you Miss Em!

I think it is a disease...

2010-05-06T17:25:00.001-07:00

...my addiction to workout clothes, that is. Pretty sad when you have more workout clothes than regular clothes! My favorite (by far!) is Impact Fitness Wear. Megan is the most adorable owner and designs the best clothing. She has a fun fashion sense and her fabrics are always the best. I have been buying from her for over 8 years and get this - I STILL have tops that I bought 8 years ago. And still in great condition! Find them HERE. Or visit her boutique located in Holladay.

Psst.....I also have some coupons at my house if anyone wants one!

Piano Lessons!

2010-05-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

Not from ME - that would be a disaster! My wonderful neighbor, Leslie Westerfield, has been teaching piano for years and started up lessons in our neighborhood. Gabe started a few months ago and LOVES her! If your kids are interested, she still has some slots available this summer. Costo is $60 per month. You can reach her at 801-450-3837.

On that same note, I did take piano as a kid. Did you? I never really developed that talent, but I can still play a couple of hymns on demand....Count Your Many Blessings. What can you still play?

New Spring Clothes...

2010-04-27T22:20:00.001-07:00

Looking for some cute new Spring/Summer clothes that are original? Found me some at Bags that Fit in American Fork. Darling boutique....I could have bought more than I did (wish I would have). Visit their site HERE. Or just go see them. You won't regret it.

ps. I have bought my shirts for family pics on my way TO the session two years in a row now. That is how POSITIVE I am that they will have something I like.

Next...my fav workout clothes....

Trip Highlights...

2010-04-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Liberty Jail:

Adam-Ondi-Ahmen:

Carthage Jail:

Nauvoo:

Kansas City Royals Baseball Game:

Spring Break 2010....

2010-04-14T05:00:00.000-07:00

For some reason, Gabe always wants to go to Hawaii whenever there is a break at school. You can imagine his suprise when he asked for Hawaii, and we delivered Missouri....

But there was a special reason we picked Missouri....

Love you, Mom and Dad! Thanks for letting us visit! More pics to come....

This is Classic....

2010-04-12T19:53:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago when I went to pick up Emma from preschool, her teacher put her in the car and said, "you forgot it was picture day, huh?" Oh, boy. Did I ever.

You all know that Emma has a style all her own. She puts the most bizarre combos together....even for school. Well on this particular day, I didn't argue with her and we now have this classic "personality" portrait that perfectly captures our girl. What do you think?

I love Spring....

2010-03-28T10:08:00.001-07:00

A spring morning at the park....you can't beat it. I think this is my favorite season. It just seems like a fresh start....a new beginning. Probably the same reason why Monday is my favorite day of the week. What is your favorite season or day of the week?

Guess where I get to go next month...

2010-03-24T05:00:00.000-07:00

Disturbing...

2010-03-21T07:25:00.000-07:00

To earn his Artist Badge, Gabriel was required to to a sketch. He decided to do a profile sketch and use me as his subject. I waited patiently as he tried to capture every detail. Here is the end result....

It's okay - we laughed out loud, too.

No Fear...

2010-03-16T05:00:00.000-07:00

Original...

2010-03-13T17:09:00.000-08:00

No one will accuse her of not being original....

Pajama pants, my workout top, my flip flops, and swimming goggles.

My shirt and camisole (I am seeing a pattern here and getting concerned....), my shoes, my lifting gloves, and a sweater with leopard fur trim worn as pants with this emsemble.

Sunny....

2010-03-07T16:28:00.001-08:00

Jesse and I just spent a couple of days down South in St. George doing some workshops. It was sunny. It was warm (compared to Salt Lake). It was nice. Spring, please hurry!

Random Thoughts...

2010-02-27T21:02:00.000-08:00

I promised I would post at least once a week. I have been torturing myself trying to come up with something clever, but I can't. So three things I think you should all know...

1. I am not sure how I functioned without my iPhone. Everyone should own one.
2. Sushi is manna from heaven.
3. My car is embarrassingly filthy. Gabe informed me that it stinks.

Book vs. Movie

2010-02-20T19:36:00.000-08:00

Gabe and I are SO in love with this series. We went to see the movie on Monday while school was out. Our vote: It was good, but the book is better! We are on number three right now. Great read for the whole family!

Basketball

2010-02-13T21:09:00.000-08:00

Gabe had a lot of fun this season playing basketball with a couple of his friends. The two boys to the right of him are good buddies of his. Kind of comical to watch 4th grade boys try to figure out how to play basketball. Okay, not comical. More like painful.

Somebody had a birthday....

2010-02-12T19:58:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, baby.

Am I....

2010-02-04T12:54:00.000-08:00

...totally missing out?

B says b-b-b...

2010-01-28T16:55:00.000-08:00

That's right....drumroll please...Emma earned her Alphabet Crown! This is a big deal at Challenger Pre-School. They have to recognize the letter, say its name and what sound it makes. So proud of her!

Greatest....

2010-01-24T21:56:00.000-08:00

This is the conversation that happens between Emma and I each night when she goes to bed:

Me: "Emma, you are the best."

Emma: "You are the greatest."

It melts my heart.

What is Emma up to?

2010-01-21T21:21:00.000-08:00

Emma started taking Gymnastics recently. The big question is: does she really enjoy it OR does she just like wearing the gymnastics suit? The jury is still out on that one...

Seriously - we have the BEST friends...

2010-01-20T04:30:00.000-08:00

Gabe did his second burger review at JCW's this weekend. He had 56 people vote on his blog. Is that so cool, or what? Some of those votes came from YOU - Thank you. It just made his day to check out his blog every morning and see how many votes he got. Ya know, it's an interesting thing to be a parent...I get emotional thinking of how supportive my friends (that is YOU, again) are of my children! I want to be that type of parent. I know not everyone could come, but we had 3 families come out to eat with us. It was so much fun to sit and chat while the kids destroyed the restaurant! Visit his blog to vote on where he should go next!

Live the Life 7 Day Challenge

2010-01-17T20:26:00.001-08:00

Many of you know that 9 months ago, I started a company with a friend of mine and our husbands (remember this post?) The company is Kristi Approved and our program is called Live the Life. It is a nutrition and fitness company teaching men and women a lifestyle to help them lose weight. Not the quick fix trap. I have had many of you want to do the program but are a little hesitant of the unknown. For you, we are presenting the "7 Day Challenge". By clicking here, you can test out our program for 7 days. We teach you about our 7 keys to increase your metabolism and set you on the path to reaching your goals. So....click...test it out...I challenge you!!

Sunbeams....

2010-01-16T20:21:00.000-08:00

Emma is a Sunbeam...where did the time go? She has been enlightening all of her friends with her newfound knowlege.

We overheard her at JCW's tonight telling Andie and Noah, "Heavenly Father doesn't like it when Noah says bad words." That got Noah's Mom in on THAT conversation...

Gabe update...

2010-01-10T17:21:00.000-08:00

My sweet, sweet Gabe. This is a picture of him at the New Years Goal Setting Event with Ty. Gabe set some impressive goals. Saturday is his next "burger review". Jesse created an events page for him on facebook, and some of our friends are coming with us...you can too! Go to his blog http://www.burgerbyg.blogspot.com/

He started piano this week. He liked them until the practice. Too bad. We are keeping them.

He has been such a huge help to me lately.

I overheard him telling his friend last night, "It is hard sometimes to be the son of a Big Star." A actually fell over in laughter! Apparently it doesn't take much to be a star in his eyes - just the way it should be.

ps. You all on facebook? Kinda loving my facebook...click on my badge to be my friend. I like to see how everyone is doing in one spot. Don't get me wrong - still love the blogging!

I need your input....

2010-01-04T17:07:00.000-08:00

Being a fitness instructor, I buy A LOT of music. I am always looking for new music for my Tread class. Some of the members at the Treehouse were thoughtful enough to give me I-tunes gift cards for Christmas...so I am on the lookout for new music! I need your ideas! I need your favorite songs to run to! This music is for my Tread (running class). My class LOVES the songs you can sing to and gets them going! What is your favorite? Help me! I have money to spend!

Gabe's Burger Blog...

2010-01-02T21:59:00.000-08:00

Gabe set a goal that he wanted to "invent" something this year. "Invent" turned into "create", and he created his own blog where he is doing his own burger reviews. He typed his first post all himself! Go visit, leave him a comment, and vote on which burger joint he should visit next. And - THANK YOU! You will make his day!

www.burgerbyg.blogspot.com

New Years Resolution....

2010-01-01T16:09:00.000-08:00

One of my New Years Resolutions is to blog more this year....I miss it....I miss you all....I am announcing it here to be held accountable. I will blog at least once a week (you should be specific with your goals.) Hold me to it.

The Best and Worst Gift....

2009-12-30T04:00:00.000-08:00

I surprised Jesse with a Kindle 2 this year for Christmas. Do you have one of these? Or seen how cool they are? Seriously. Check them out.

There is good and bad to this gift. Good - Jesse loves to read and has been drooling over the Kindle for a couple of years now. Bad - once he starts to read a book, he goes MIA. Jesse, we love you and will see you when you finish your book...or the next...or the next....

Outfit of the Week....

2009-12-27T19:13:00.000-08:00

I had a hard time picking which outfit I loved best this week from the diva....

This one was a lovely combination of pajamas covered by a furry vest. Both are pulled together by a ruffly reversible skirt. The leather boots add so much to the outfit. It is all topped off by a glitter headband.

This one truly is a classic. Not that you really wanted to know, but Emma's ensemble is actually lingerie. Let's just leave it at that.

Christmas Recap...

2009-12-26T18:37:00.001-08:00

Christmas Eve dinner was SUSHI - we were all in heaven....

The first gift that Emma opened was from Gabe - a "flapper" costume. She immediently put it on....it is still on....

...we also got a Karoake machine. Ironically, none of us can carry a tune!

Gabe loves his new DS Game and legos (he is currently STILL playing the game)....

Breakfast was with our sweet neighbors, the Schmidt's. We enjoyed spending time with Stephanie and her funny boys - they keep us laughing!

Weekend Fun...

2009-12-22T22:01:00.001-08:00

We decided to take a much needed break and head to Midway and Park City for the weekend. We stayed at Zermatt Resort, which the kids think is pretty cool. Midway is one of our favorite places to visit. The beauty is breathtaking.

We saw "The Princess and the Frog" - so, so cute!

There was a little shopping, good food (Gabe has discovered sushi!), and onto the sledding hill - Soldier Hollow....

What's not to love about being pulled to the top of the hill? The only way to go!

Our Fashionista...

2009-12-20T21:03:00.000-08:00

If you have (or ever have had) a three year old, you understand the constant changing of clothes. I had no idea, as I am quite positive that my mother NEVER let me do this. To give you a sneak peek into a day at our house, here a few of the interesting combinations that our Emma has come up with:

We accumulated quite a few beanies after she decided to cut her own hair. The pink sparkly top is a slip. Nice.

Going to her own wedding.

Another hat to cover the bad hair. Layering is the style of choice today.

She has requested to be referred to as "Butterfly, the Cowgirl." Yep.

I SO love this little girl! She makes me (and everyone who comes to the house) laugh!

On a side note, I didn't find my battery charger, but did break down and bought a new one. I am sure I will find the old one this week. More pictures to come!!

For My Mom.....I know, it's about time...

2009-11-14T15:51:00.001-08:00

By the amazing and talented, Becky Kimball

**more on the sidebar

Beautiful...

2009-10-10T10:46:00.000-07:00

Check out THE cutest little girl here! I can't wait to see the rest!! Thanks, Becky, for always capturing the true personality of my family!

Scarlet Pimpernel...

2009-09-19T10:35:00.001-07:00

The Hale Center Theater is now showing the Scarlet Pimpernel through September 26. If there is any way you can get tickets and go - YOU MUST! It was superb!! The costumes were exquisite, the stage was magnificent, and the singing was amazing! Loved it!!

I know, I know...

2009-09-15T21:36:00.000-07:00

My sister Paula made a comment on my previous post that I needed to post pictures of the family. I would, really, if I could find my battery charger! The last pictures I took of my family and posted were in JUNE. What?? Please let me know if you find my battery charger or would just like to buy me a new (really nice) camera. I would like to keep you updated. (updated = at least once a month.....ha!)

Check it Out!!

2009-09-14T07:00:00.001-07:00

Go check out our new website here!

L is for...

2009-08-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

....loser, lame, lazy blogger...you pick, it will fit! What a crazy summer! I was feeling so bad that Gabe and I hadn't spent much time together this summer (L would also work for Latchkey child!) I know that money can't buy happiness, but he said he wanted to spend a day just me and him. So, I planned one of those spur of the moment trips to surprise him with - something I have ALWAYS wanted to do! And where did we go? Guess....

That's right - we went to Disneyland, just the two of us, and it was SO much fun! We loaded him in the car early one morning and told him Dad had a business trip. When we got to the airport, Jesse gave him a list of chores to do while he was gone. At the bottom of the list was "go to Disneyland with Mom". He laughed and smiled and then climbed back in the car! Jesse and I were laughing so hard! Then off we went - just the two of us :) Thank you to my sweet mother in law who stayed at our house to watch Emma and clean my house from top to bottom (it SO needed it!) I don't think she slept a wink for 3 days.

Love you Gabe - let's do it again!

Cowabunga Bay!

2009-07-18T20:19:00.001-07:00

So, we gave it a try today..... And it was a hit! We really did enjoy ourselves. The kids LOVED the new water park - Gabe enjoyed to big slides and Emma couldn't get away from the little slides. I even got a little nap on the grass in the warm sun. We will go back. The only drawbacks: Crowded - but we were expecting that. And this is more of a personal problem....I cannot stand public restrooms at swimming facilites. I gag just thinking about them...don't you?

Date Night with Gabe...

2009-07-09T07:07:00.001-07:00

We try to go on a date once a week with the kids - we alternate who gets to go with who....we have been slacking in the weekly kid date area as of late. Until last night. Gabe and I went to see UP. Very cute! Highly recommended!

Class of 1994

2009-07-07T05:09:00.000-07:00

I had my 15 year class reunion last weekend. I grew up in a very small town in Idaho and only had 86 classmates. The unique thing about growing up in a small town, is that my class literally went from pre-school to high school together! It is more like a family reunion instead of a class reunion. It was so great to see everyone and pick up right where we left off! Love you guys!

Class of 1994

On this day...

2009-07-02T08:19:00.000-07:00

...33 years ago, I was born! This post is a THANK YOU to my parents who made the choice to bring me into this world. To teach me. To love me. The first year that we were married, Jesse sent my Mom flowers on my birthday with a note to thank her for having me. I have always looked at my birthday a little differently since then. So, thank you mom and dad for EVERYTHING! I am who I am because of you and hope to develop more of your characteristics this year! Love you!

Flashback Friday...

2009-06-19T05:00:00.000-07:00

1998 - ISU Graduation
Bachelors of Science

Me and Jesse Shenell graduated that same year

Dad, me, Mom, Nell

Randomness...

2009-06-17T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have the cutest neices! One of them, Nicole, came to stay with me for a few days to help me keep an eye on Emma. Emma actually let Nicole do her hair and change her "uniform" every day! This is a big deal at our house!

Our garden is growing....

Note to Self...

2009-06-16T15:50:00.000-07:00

Miss blogging...
post more often...

My New Favorite...

2009-06-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

I have never been big into perfume. I've always been more of a body spray girl. But, I decided to step out of my box and try an actual fragrance. This is now my favorite - Hana Mori Paris "Butterfly". So soft and pretty...

Girls Night Out

2009-06-14T14:43:00.001-07:00

*click to enlarge

Giveaway!

2009-06-10T22:43:00.001-07:00

No Biggie is doing a Giveaway...and it's a good one. Check it out here.

Emma's Birthday...

2009-06-03T23:06:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby girl is 3 now....we spent the special day as a family.

Me and my BFF at dinner:

Build a Bear and her new puppy, "Olivia"...

There is this great dessert place in American Fork called "Dippidee". I love, love, love their cupcakes! They made this cute cake...

Cake time with Gabe and Andie...and Olivia...

Girls Night Out!!

2009-06-03T16:35:00.001-07:00

GET THE LOOK WITHOUT THE SURGERY!!

GIRLS NIGHT OUT FITNESS PARTY!
Ivory Ridge Tennis Clubhouse located East of Traverse Mountain

Date: June 25, 2009
Time: 6:00pm - 6:30pm LIVE THE LIFE Info Session
6:30pm - 8:30pm LIVE THE LIFE Presentation

LIVE THE LIFE Info Session: Free to all women to answer questions about the LIVE THE LIFE 12 week program before the presentation begins.

LIVE THE LIFE Presentation: Learn the principles of nutrition, exercise, and accountability that will set you on the course to your new lifestyle.

PRICE OF PROGRAM: $100 +tax
That is only $8.00 per week!

LIVE THE LIFE Program may cause side effects including washboard abs, untouchable thighs, tight buns, and unbelievable definition. Please consult with your Fitness Queens.

RSVP required by Monday, June 22, 2009 to info@kristiapproved.com

CLICK HERE FOR YOU TUBE VIDEO OF THE FITNESS QUEENS

Taking this show on the road...

2009-06-03T13:46:00.000-07:00

Kristi Approved is heading to Idaho this weekend! We will be in the Rexburg area Saturday evening if anyone wants to join in the fun :) Call me or leave a comment if you would be interested in joining a group up there. This is your chance for all those who wanted us to travel! Get ready - here we come! (801) 318-5644

Guess who has a birthday this week?

2009-05-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

Little Turkey
**click to enlarge to see snot coming out of nose**

Late Nights...

2009-05-28T00:03:00.001-07:00

My little sidekick loves to stay up late with me. This is where I found her tonight....

17 Again...

2009-05-19T20:54:00.001-07:00

Cute....I liked it! A little over Gabe's head, but he still laughed out loud!

I promise I am still here....

2009-05-17T23:00:00.001-07:00

What a ride I have been on the past 2 weeks! I posted the blog about the new business venture we started with our friends, and had no idea that I should have already had my running shoes laced up and ready to go! It has been an amazing past 2 weeks! The women I get to work with are inspiring and wonderful. I should be inspiring and motivating them, but it seems to be working the other way around. I leave each meeting feeling uplifted and wanting to be better. So to all of you who have signed up for parties - THANK YOU! And for those still wanting to, don't wait! We are already scheduling in June. I can e-mail you a new flier as some things have changed. Just e-mail or call me. And to all of those who have been raising my children for the past 2 weeks...you are doing a wonderful job!

Opportunity!

2009-05-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

Many of you have expressed interest in doing a Kristi Approved Fitness Party, but didn't have a group to go with. There is an opportunity tonight @ 5:30pm in the Draper area! Call me if your interested. I know it is short notice! 318-5644

Gabe is in a ....

2009-05-12T18:52:00.000-07:00

Gabe and a few of his friends decided they were going to start a Rock Band in his friends' garage. It is no secret that NO ONE in our family (including Gabe) can carry a tune, so I was kind of surprised when I asked Gabe what instrument he was going to play and his was response was, "I'm the lead singer". They also asked to borrow my Beatles and Def Leppard cd's. Hmmm....this could get interesting.

Flashback Friday...

2009-05-01T05:35:00.000-07:00

14 Years ago this month, Jesse left to serve a mission in Brazil....and I continued my education.

At the MTC.

3 of his companions at the MTC...

Holding a members baby in Brazil...

Calling All Women...

2009-04-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

Ok girls here you go. As you can imagine it is not without a little hesitancy and a lot of anxiety that I'm putting these pictures out there for the world to see. As many of you know there has been a "life-style" change at the Allen house. The change wasn't easy at first, but the results were exactly what I wanted and I couldn't be happier. Since making this change I've lost 17.6 pounds, but more importantly I lost 12.88 % of body fat, 5 inches of my hips, 3.5 inches from my waist, and 2.75 inches from my thighs. More importantly I gained a new found respect for setting and achieving goals, gained greater self-discipline and respect, and a new appreciation for my abilities. So if a chocolate loving, candy craving, sugar devouring, sweet-aholic like me can do it so can you, and that is the real point of this blog. Together with my good friend Kristi Attaway, the Fitness Queen, we've started a new company to help women maximize their potential and achieve their fitness goals. We have a 12 week course, that we offer to women in the privacy of their own home teaching them the proper principles of fitness, nutrition and weight loss. You get a group of 10-20 women together, and we'll take care of the rest. You'll have a blast discovering you're true potential, and you'll be able to do it while being accountable to your friends. Give me a call or send me a note and I'll give you more info. 801-318-5644 or allenfamily@broadweave.net

July 2008

November 2008

2 weeks ago - April 2009

Making me Giggle This Week...

2009-04-27T05:18:00.000-07:00

One of Gabe's buddies, Nathan, was helping us work out in the yard Monday night. He was telling Jesse that his Mom had to have surgery and about a conversation that he had with his mom. This is how I envisioned the conversation between Nathan and his Mom going....

Mom: I have to have surgery tomorrow.
Nathan: Why?
Mom: Because I have a hernia, and I need to get it fixed.
Nathan: Why?
Mom: Because it is serious, and if I don't get it fixed I could die.
**silence**
Nathan: If you die, can I go live at Gabe's house?

Flashback Friday...

2009-04-24T05:23:00.000-07:00

The year: 1996-1997
The Place: Idaho State University
The best roommates ever hoped for: Pepper, Tara, and Jamie

Yep - our singles ward held a Pine Wood Derby...trophy from the DI and all!We were always doing some weird pose...who was our personal photographer?

Red pants were in....I think...

The morning Peps left on her mission...I was a newlywed here.