Jake & Stephanie

Home Study Finished!

2012-01-04T17:33:00.000-07:00

This is just a short post to update our status on the Adoption Approval process. We just had our Home Study this morning. During the Home Study our case worker comes in and tours the home, asks questions, and interviews everyone living in the home. She needs to make sure our home is safe and has a wholesome atmosphere for a child to grow up in. It went really well. She loved the home and of course she loves Zona (My Grandmother who we live with) There are only a few more steps to go and then we should be approved by the end of January. We are so excited for the blessings to come and we are so grateful for everyones prayers and support. Thank you!

Dinner Date with The Bros

2011-12-28T08:46:00.000-07:00

Last night Jake and I went on a dinner date with my brothers, Scott and Jeff and their wives, Jayme and Rachel. Jeff lives out of state so it is rare to have us all together. It was a lot of fun to catch up, have a good time, and eat some really good food at Thaiphoon at the Gateway.

Getting ready to go. Grandma Christy had a fun sleep-over with all 6 nieces and nephews while we were out. What a great Grandma!

The Boys: Jake, Jeff, and Scott

The Girls: Jayme, Rachel, and Stephanie

Scott's cool phone was able to take this panoramic view. Isn't Jake adorable!

Christmas Love & Joy

2011-12-26T23:13:00.005-07:00

We had such a fun Christmas this year. We were able to see all of our families and even make it to church. I actually loved going to church on Christmas. It is the best place to be with family, friends, and loved ones to celebrate the birth of Christ. Church had an extra special feeling on Christmas.

We were able to go to Jake's parents homes and my mom's home. It was nice to have so many stops from one family to the next because it made Christmas last all day. My brother was able to visit with his family from New Mexico and it was so good to have both my brothers with their families together. I have 6 nieces and nephews now. We were able to recreate the Nativity with all the kids, it was chaotic but also very sweet. It's sad how fast it comes and goes but we have next year to look forward to. Hopefully by next year we will have a precious little new addition to our family.

Here are a few pictures of the fun Christmas Day!

Jake's Dad Jeff and Step-Mom Marilyn were so sweet to give us a Kindle Fire! We are so excited because we love, love, love, to read. The key is to not fight over it!

My hubby gave me this awesome wolf hood called a Spirithood. I haven't taken it off since I got it. Most of the proceeds go towards endangered animals so its a win, win! Oh, and just so you know it is faux fur.

Here are the contents of my stocking. Does Jake know me or what? It is mostly Hello Kitty or Disney Princess stuff. But notice the surprise on the left: Prawn Cocktail potato chips. Yes, that is shrimp flavored. I guess it is all the rage in the UK, looks questionable to me. I have yet to try one.

This tree is in the Draper Park. We had to stop and take a picture because the lights look amazing! We thought it looked just like the tree of life!

Even Phillip had a great Christmas, here he is in his Christmas "Naughty but Nice" T-Shirt and candy cane bone.

He loves Christmas so much!

We had so much fun being with everyone. I hope to find more pictures of the family. Although all our gifts were great and it was so fun to give presents to each other, the best gift of all is the love and joy we have together as a family. Merry Christmas!!

It's About Love

2011-12-14T12:24:00.002-07:00

I'm sure most of you know by now that Jake and I are trying to Adopt through LDS Family Services. I just wanted to give you all an update on everything.

We are still in the application process. This process can take upwards of 4 months, but we plan to be finished by January. Once our application is complete you will be able to see our profile up on the http://www.itsaboutlove.com/ website. All you will have to do is search or names and you can see everything about us. I will post as soon as that option is available. This can be a long process but it is worth it and we are so excited for the blessings that are to come!

To all the friends and family who have supported, loved, and helped us out, you will never know how grateful we truly are. All of you have made it so our dreams of having a baby can come true. We truly love you all! Merry Christmas!!

"It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas"

2011-12-07T12:55:00.003-07:00

It's official....We are so excited for Christmas! Jake and I are constantly listening to our Michael Buble Christmas Album or the infamous FM 100.3 and FM 106.5 for Christmas music 24/7. I love the feeling that Christmas brings to everyone. We all seem a little more happy, loving, and patient with each other (Except for the crowds at the mall) Lets all take a second to remember why we celebrate Christmas and to cherish these times together! We love you all!

"Mirror Mirror On The Wall"...... My Favorite: Snow White!!

2011-11-21T11:18:00.003-07:00

Growing up, Snow White was my favorite princess. I have always thought she got a bad wrap but now she is coming back! Two Snow White movies are coming out a few months away from each other. I definitely have my favorite out of these two but I would love to hear your opinion. Post a Comment below :)

If you are wondering, the Kristen Stewart, Snow White and The Huntsman is what I'm really excited about!!!

One Day Left Till Breaking Dawn....Nuff Said!! :)

2011-11-16T11:18:00.002-07:00

Hoping to Adopt

2011-11-10T10:35:00.001-07:00

Jake and I are hoping to Adopt! We have started the application process through LDS Family Services. Please tell anyone and everyone you know so that we can get the word out. Once our application is complete I will share links to our profile and etc.. We feel so blessed to have this opportunity. Thank you for all of your help!

Halloween Season 2011

2011-10-31T11:01:00.002-06:00

Happy Halloween Everyone!!

We have had a very fun Halloween Season. We have been to ghoulish dance performances with the Voodoo Darlings, celebrated the month with " An October Evening" downtown, had a 'frightful' Halloween party at my work and then last night a party at my mom's house! Here are some pictures of a few of the fun things we did:

Mom and Grandma Zona make the cutest witches ever!

I was Sacajawea and Phillip was Super Dog for mom's party.

Skinworks Halloween Party:

Each class decorated an area of the spa. My class did the Manicure and Pedicure rooms. Here is a glimpse of our spooky pedicure room. Don't upset the students or you just might lose a limb during your pedicure! AAAHHHH!

My Lovely Students, They really are the best!

Here are some of the Skinwork's Witches (Staff)

This Halloween was a blast! I can't wait to do it again next year!

Voldemort is Alive!!

2011-08-04T22:47:00.004-06:00

I know this post is extremely late, but better late then never! Harry Potter was amazing! Of course the whole family dressed up. I reprised my role as Bellatrix Lestrange, while Jake took the amazing feet of being Voldemort! It took 4 hours of makeup application by my good friend Christel Edwards but it was well worth it. Make sure to check out the last picture. It is awesome!!

Here is the Masterpiece. Jake was the hit of the theatre! I can't wait to tell our kids how cool we used to be! :)

Ragnar Relay Pictures Finally

2011-07-17T22:08:00.004-06:00

I know, I know, it's been a month since I ran the Ragnar Relay but I am just now getting to posting the pictures. I hope you enjoy them. This race was awesome and I would love to do it again next year. Let me know if you want to join me!

Thanks Tamara for inviting me to come run with you, I loved it!!

Ragnar or Bust!

2011-06-20T01:51:00.006-06:00

Over the weekend my cousin Tamara and I had the awesome opportunity to run the Ragnar Relay Wasatch Back. If you don't know what that means it is a relay race that starts in Logan and ends in Park City, a total of 192 miles. Over the course of 2 days our team of 12 runners competed to win, or at least get a good time! Every runner has 3 legs they run throughout the course. Each team is separated into 2 vans and the racing beings!

This race was the hardest thing I have done to date but also one of the funnest! I made some great friends and had a great time. I personally ran over 18 miles, all with-in a 21hr window with hardly any sleep and little rest in between races.

I have more pictures to show of this amazing adventure but I had to share this one first. These are the lovely ladies of the first van, we were the first 6 runners. Our team was mostly from Pleasant Grove, so our team name was ' The Grove Trotters'.

These girls are all amazing runners! It took a lot to keep up with them but it was well worth it! I just heard that our team placed 56th in over 1050 teams competing. With the help from the boys in our second van we really rocked it out there! More pictures to come! :)

Pretty in Pink

2011-06-11T22:19:00.003-06:00

Right before I left work on Friday my mom brought in my adorable niece Ava and I got to paint her nails for the first time. Of course she chose the pretty princess pink!

This picture is one main reason why I need a girl someday. I would love to pass on all my Beauty skills that I've learned.

Fill the Ark 5K 2011

2011-06-11T10:38:00.004-06:00

Every year my community puts on the Fill the Ark 5K. The pro cedes go towards giving animals to small towns in 3rd world countries and then they can live off the animals by using them for farming. The race is always in June and I love doing it. This race really kicks off the summer for me!

Here I come!

Just running though the Finish Line. I did my personal best on a 5K, finishing in 27:53, average of an 8:58 mile. Considering all the hills in this run I feel pretty good!
Yay! I can't wait to finish all my races I have planned this year: Ragnar Relay next week and Bryce Canyon 1/2 Marathon in July! :-)

Phillip's 1st Birthday

2011-06-05T01:36:00.004-06:00

Phillip celebrated his 1st Birthday this week. It was a great excuse to enjoy the warm weather with a BBQ. We hope to do many more this summer. It was so fun to celebrate Phillip's birthday. Grandma even made a cake, we sang to him and I helped blow out the candle!

My precious puppy was not too happy about the birthday hat but it sure was cute.

Happy Birthday Prince Phillip!

Harry Potter, Disney, and Family

2011-06-05T00:58:00.006-06:00

This last month Jake and I joined my mom, uncle Mark, and grandma to Orlando Florida to see Family, go to Harry Potter World, and Disney World. It has been since our Honeymoon 5 years ago that we have been to Florida. It was so fun and a much needed vacation. Enjoy the pictures! and Yes, Harry Potter World is as amazing as everyone says it is!

I have always loved Pirates of the Caribbean

Snow White was my favorite princess growing up, next to Cinderella of course :-)

I love this picture, mom and I had a blast!

At Animal Kingdom we saw some cool animals. I love this one, I hope he isn't letting me know that he wants to eat me.

The baby Elephant was so cute!

My camera is not zoomed, the giraffe came right up to the bus, very cool!

view of castle from the 'people mover' in tomorrow land

Taking a break on the 'people mover'

We are loving the warm weather and Disney!

Harry Potter World!

Butter Bear is amazing!!

Right outside Hogwarts

Just about to get on the Dueling Dragon roller coaster. AAHHH! so fun!

Hogsmead

Hogwarts castle was amazing and the ride inside was insane!

Family

My cousin Eric and I as Zoolander's 'Blue Steel' and 'Le Tigre' We are the coolest!

Cousins David, Eric and I

Uncle Mark. Mom, Uncle Brien, and Grandma Zona

We had such a good time. I can't wait to go back! Let hope we don't have to wait another 5 years. I miss you Florida!!

Spring and a Royal Wedding!

2011-04-25T21:24:00.004-06:00

Last week Jake, Phillip, and I went for a walk to the park. It was so nice to be outside in the warm spring air, smell freshly cut grass, and see the blossoms on the trees. Of course since then it has hailed, and rained but I guess that's spring in Utah for you. I hope these pictures bring a smile to your face. Happy Spring!

This Friday April 29th is the royal wedding. Check out my 'invitation' at the bottom of my post! Mom and I will be celebrating the wedding in style.

Phillip smelling the flowers, yes, it is so cute!
He loves the Tulips

Blossom on the trees

We brought out the bird feeder when we got home. I think the birds were waiting for it because as soon as we hung it up they were there :)

Check out my Royal Wedding Invitation. Or course it is fake, but my mom and I will be watching the wedding on Friday and I'm really excited. We are having a sleep over and drink herbal tea straight from England. I definitely am proud to be an American but I love to go back to my roots on occasion.
I hope you all have an enjoyable Spring!

Happy Easter

2011-04-23T17:37:00.001-06:00

Happy Easter from the Williams!

More Phillip Pics & A Sweet Video!!

2011-04-05T20:33:00.004-06:00

Phillip is now 10 months, he is so cute and makes me so happy. Sorry I only post pictures of my dog, I guess I'm one of those dog people now. :) Phillip is getting neutered next week and I think he knows it. He looks a little wary.

He really looks like a Prince in this picture. Here is a flashback to Christmas time when I was working hard to train Phillip. He is so little and sweet in his little sweater! And he is doing a great job listening to his "mommy" :)

Prince Phillip is 9 months old!

2011-03-01T20:26:00.002-07:00

PHILLIP and his 'Mommy'

My baby puppy 'Prince Phillip' will be 9 months old tomorrow! He loves to cuddle with Jake, me and his baby, he also loves to go running outside with me every Monday and Wednesday, chew his toys and lick (kiss) everyone he meets.

Zoo Lights

2011-01-03T23:07:00.007-07:00

After Christmas Jake and I invited my sister-in-law Jayme and her kids Bennett, Carter, and Ava, along with my mom to 'Zoo Lights' at Hogle Zoo. The lights were amazing and it was so fun to see the nocturnal animals come out that you usually don't see during the day.

The trees and elephants were very detailed and so pretty!

These Gorillas' arms were moving. It was so fun!

Here is the under the sea exhibit. I look like Ariel with all my under the sea friends at winter :)

Bennett rode the carousel all by himself. He is growing so big! He picked to ride the praying mantis all by himself. :)

The tigers were out and pacing the fence. Kinda eerie...

Mom, Carter, Jake, and Bennett hanging out by the Dragon.

The last animal we saw was the Snow Leopard. He was so cute! He even rubbed his head against the glass and also put his paw up to the glass. I think he was trying to play with Jake.

Zoo Lights was so cool. It is definitely a yearly tradition. I can't wait for next year!

Christmas Extraveganza

2011-01-03T22:29:00.009-07:00

This Christmas was a total success! Jake, Phillip and I had a great time with all the family! We traveled all around town, starting with Christmas at our house then off to my mother-in-law Dianne's, then my father-in-law Jeff's, Then off to Christmas with my mom and my brother's family. It was a total blast!

Christmas Morning at home:

Here is Phillip surrounded by his Christmas gifts. He loves his tent and blanket!

These are my lovely Christmas PJs that Jake gave me. They are super comfy.

This is my stocking carnage. Stockings rock!

Off to Dianne's. Here we are all together. Oh how sweet!

Jake's dad Jeff gave us this awesome present, a new super cool camera, Wahoo!

I was so excited to give Jeff this awesome telescope from all of the kids. He looks pretty happy too.

Christmas with mom began with the traditional scavenger hunt

My mom is holding my niece Ava while my nephews Bennett and Carter run to find each clue.

We then opened presents. My brother Scott with his beautiful little girl Ava while she holds her new hippo pillow pet.

The boys were so good that they even sat down long enough to read a book with their mom :)

We finished the day off with cleaning up all the wrapping paper. Carter is racing Bennett to see who can clean up the fastest. Notice Phillip's sweet face in the bottom right hand corner :)

This Christmas was so fun and I loved relaxing and being with family. Oh, and I also liked getting presents :)

Seattle Or Bust!

2010-12-14T19:36:00.011-07:00

Last week my sister-in-law, Angela, and I went to visit our cousin Jane and her husband Mike in Seattle. We were only able to stay for a few days but we definitely spent our time wisely. We saw all the sites, and even fit in some much needed Jane Austen movie watching. Jane's husband is in residency so most of the time it was just us girls. It was so fun to have a girls trip! Jane is also 37 weeks pregnant, it was so fun to see her pregnant belly and talk about babies :)

First we visited the world famous Pikes Place. It is an awesome Fish/Farmers Market. You can buy everything there from lotion for a pregnant belly to hand painted hats to the best mac n' cheese ever! Jane and me in front of the market

The famous bronze pig in front of the fish "throwing" market.
Jane, Me, and Angela having a blast at Pikes Place. I really loved this place!

The water is beautiful, those girls are pretty good lookn' too!

Our second night there Mike was able to go out with us, so we hit up the best Indian Food in town. Yummy!

Here was another highlight for me: Trader Joe's! I love this place. I wish Utah could have one :(

Angela and me at the space needle. It was so cool!

We were sooooo lucky to be in Seattle at the same time as the Harry Potter Exhibition. First I got the privilege to be chosen to volunteer by the sorting hat. I then was sorted into Gryfindor (of course) We all then saw almost every prop and clothing item used in the movies, including the Hogwarts Express! I even got to pull on a mandrake and play Quidditch!!! I was like a kid at Christmas skipping from one thing to an other. It was amazing!

The Monorail at downtown Seattle was even decorated for the occasion. I was so excited, Can you tell?

At the end of our trip we went shopping at downtown Seattle. Here Angela and I are at the food court. We are so excited because Angela finally found the Hello Kitty watch I had been looking for at McDonald's. I know that its silly but I LOVE Hello Kitty and I have the best sister-in-law ever! She was on the search the whole trip for this watch and she found it the last day :) Thanks Angela!!

This was a really fun trip and I hope we can do it again soon before Jane

and Mike move.

Zion's Thanksgiving

2010-12-14T18:27:00.008-07:00

For Thanksgiving this year Jake and I went down to Zions National Park with my family. We ate dinner at the Zion Park Lodge and just played around. It was a fun trip and a nice get away.

Here are three generations on the trip down to Southern Utah. grandma Zona, mom Christy, and me.

Zion Park Lodge. This is where we ate our Turkey Dinner buffet. :)

Grandma Christy with Ava

Bennett and his favorite uncle!

My brother with his boys :)

The views were beautiful!

It was so nice to get away for the Thanksgiving Holdiay with the family. I am looking forward to next time.

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows, Finally!!

2010-11-21T02:09:00.005-07:00

This past Thursday night Jake and I went to the Harry Potter movie premiere. We went with a few Harry Potter nerds just like us. We spent a few months preparing for this premiere, It was so fun to dress as a bad character, Bellatrix Lastrange! Jake was also an other menacing character, Severus Snape. Everyone else was decked out in there Gryffindor clothing provided by moi :).

Here is about half of us getting ready before the movie. From left to right: Angela, Me, Nick, Jake, Abbey, and Shayla.

It was so fun to be the bad guys! I stayed in Character most of the time.

Here Jake and I are about to see the movie. It was sooo fun!! People in the theatre would stop us and tell us our costumes rocked and take pictures with us. :)

We loved the movie and can't wait for the last installment!! Left to Right: Me, Jake, Nick, Dan, Trish, Angela, Abbey, Shayla, Stacey, and Brandon.

Harry Potter 7 Days!!!

2010-11-12T08:37:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to inform the masses, if you don't know all ready, the first installment of the last Harry Potter movie comes out in exactly 1 week! Jake and I are very excited and of course we are going to the midnight premier along with a few friends. Below is a picture of my alter-ego, Bellatrix Lastrange j/k :). I will be dressing as Bellatrix Lastrange for the premiere. I will definitely post pictures of the whole thing! I can't believe it's only 1 week! Yay!!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-06T22:04:00.003-06:00

This Halloween was especially fun. The highlight was definitely Jake's, Angie's, and Dan's costumes. Below you can see the original picture taken about 20 yrs ago on Halloween. Jake was a cute pirate, Angie, the California Raisin, and Dan is a sweet little bunny. On the right is their re-enactment of that Halloween. Angie even found a California Raisin costume on EBay. It was so fun!!

I was Little Red Ridding Hood
Me and my Baby Pumpkin :)

I can't wait till next Halloween. It is by far my favorite holiday. I love being with family and friends, the crisp fall weather, dressing up in fun costumes, the smell of jack-o-lanterns lit up out on the streets, children laughing and playing, trick or treating, and sometimes getting really scared!

Halloween at School

2010-10-29T11:55:00.004-06:00

Today I threw a Holloween Party for my Class. We had a blast! There was a drawing for a prize, a costume contest, we watch Nightmare Before Christmas, and played a Jepordary Test Review Game.

Here is my student Jacklyn and I. She was my assistant for the Test Review Game, and I think we also look super cute as Dorothy and Little Red Riding Hood

Here are the results of the costume contest

(left to right)Me-Little Red Riding Hood: Best Overall. Jacklyn- Dorothy: Funniest.

Michelle-Love Bug: Most Creative. Chy-Pirate: Scariest

This Party was so fun! My students rock!

High School Friends

2010-10-18T17:33:00.006-06:00

This past Saturday I got together with some of my best friends from high school. A few of us still hangout but it has been years since we have all been in the same state together. It was so much fun to reminisce and catch up on everything. It's kinda strange that we all look pretty close to the same as we did in high school. We must be aging very gracefully :)

Amber, Me, Christine, Katie, Katie, and Bekah

Here we are just goofing around. It totally reminds me of how silly we used to be. Christine is talking to a baby on the floor but it totally looks like she is having labor pains. Haha!

Phillip in the Future

2010-10-05T13:37:00.007-06:00

I've had a lot of people ask me, "What is Phillip going to look like when he is all grown up?" I have tried to explain it but a picture is better than anything.

Below is a current picture of me and Phillip. I know, he is the cutest dog ever!!!

Here is a couple stock photos of an adult Cavalier. I definately think Phillip will be more handsome cause nobody is as cute as Phillip!

But this is the best example, I think, of what he will look like. Lady! on Lady and the Tramp. If you haven't seen this famous Disney movie then shame on you! Go to your grandma's house and watch it. (I'm assuming that all grandma's own every Disney movie!) I love my puppy and I am so excited to see him grow into a handsome dog!

Up The Canyon

2010-10-02T10:04:00.009-06:00

This past weekend we decided to go up to the local east millcreek canyon and roast some hot dogs. A few family members met us up there and we celebrated our birthdays. My birthday was the 28th and Jake's was the 29th so we like to celebrate them together.

Everyone getting prepared for the roasting of dogs :)

I look like I am so excited to eat, haha!

Taylor, Kaitlyn, and Cameron being silly.

Angela, Phillip, and I trying to stay warm by the fire.

Oh, how sweet.

Sisters: Dianne, Sharlene, and Marianne.

Cousins having a blast, Hailey, Brian, and Erin.

Happy Birthday Jake! I love you and I am so excited to spend forever with you!

****Please Read Below, There Is An Other New Post To READ! :) *****

St. George Retreat

2010-10-02T09:32:00.010-06:00

So I know that I am posting this a month late. I guess my blogging juices haven't been flowing lately, but I have to tell you about my St. George Retreat with my mom over the Labor Day Weekend.

Mom and I decided we needed a trip for just the two of us, so we traversed down to St. George to have a fun relaxing weekend.

We hiked, went to a show at Tuachan, got Pedicures, and most important we just relaxed!

Here we are in Snow Canyon. Taking pictures with just us two was kinda hard so there was a lot of reaching or just taking individual pictures of each other.

I had to take a picture of the best breakfast restaurant ever!! 'The Egg and I'

At the top of the Dunes in Snow Canyon, "Namaste!"

I have the cutest mom ever!

The view down snow canyon

On Saturday night we went to see the show "Crazy For You" at Tuacahn Amphitheatre. It was so fun! There was a lot of Gershwin music and tap dancing, oh and I can't forget the fireworks at the end!

We then got pedicures at the BEST Spa resort in St. George. Red Mountain Resort is an all inclusive wellness/weight loss center but they do allow public into their spa. It was awesome!

I had to have my pictures taken in front of this statue, It was right in the middle of a round-about but I thought it was so beautiful!!! Again, we were alone so we have our own pictures. :)

This trip was so much fun, and very relaxing. We even had enough time to lay at the pool and get a run in around the temple. Thanks mom for going on this trip with me! Let's do it again next year. Love you!!

My Sweet Puppy :)

2010-08-12T22:41:00.004-06:00

This one is my favorite.

Ok, I promise next time I'll post more than just my adorable puppy!

My Puppy, Prince Phillip

2010-07-31T22:22:00.014-06:00

I came home today to this sweet little puppy! Jake got him for me while I was out with some friends. He is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, his name is Phillip, for Prince Phillip in Sleeping Beauty, and he is only 8 weeks old.

Jake and his little brother Nick doorbell ditched my back door. When I answered the door this sweet face was looking up at me! When I saw him all I could do was cry because I was so happy! I know he will be alot of work but it will be well worth it.

He is the sweetest most lovable puppy I have ever met! I can't believe he is mine!

Yellowstone Rocks!

2010-07-19T12:29:00.009-06:00

Jake and I just got back from visiting Yellowstone with his Dad, and siblings. We had so much fun! We rented a cabin and stayed up there for the weekend. It was so nice to be in the great outdoors, watch wildlife, and be with those you love.

The car ride up

Nick was really bored but he was a good trooper.

Here at Yellowstone waiting for Old Faithful to go off. Lacey, Dan, and Abbey

There she blows!!!

Girls hanging out at the Old Faithful Lodge

Dad and Jake relaxing after a long day of sightseeing at the Old Faithful Lodge

Biscuit Basin: Angela, Dad, and Abbey. The pools behind them look so inviting but you don't want to jump in them. They would burn you instantly, Yikes!

There were hot pots everywhere. You had to be careful where you stood. Always stay on the trail!

I love Mammoth Hot Springs.

The wildflowers were beautiful.

We saw a ton of wildlife. Here are some pictures of some of them:

Buffalo,

Elk,

Bear,

and the crazy girls: Abbey and Stephanie. Watch out! They are extemely dangerous.

This is probably my favorite land mark of Yellowstone, called, The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone.

I had such a blast! I hope we can do it again next year!

Eclipse All The Way Baby!!

2010-07-01T22:19:00.004-06:00

I am part of the insane group of Twilight fans who are in love with Edward and gush over Jacob's abs. I admit it is extremely nerdy and juvenile, but I am just a sucker for romance and vampires. Yesterday the 3rd installment of the Twilight Saga, Eclipse, came out and I have already seen it Twice! I first saw it at the midnight premiere on the 30th and then again today. I still need to go with Jake too :)

First are the pics from the midnight premiere. I went with my sister-in-law Abbey, and my friends Mandy and Alisha.

Abbey and I just arriving at the theatre.

The whole gang: Mandy, Alisha, Me and Abbey

The movie is about to start and we are so excited!!!!

The midnight show had a party before it started with raffle drawings, swag bags, and pictures with the cast! (Well kinda)

Here are the pictures from tonight with the family. The movie was just as good, if not better, the second time around.

Me, Abbey, Dianne, Angie, & Lacey

We were so happy after the movie! Everyone loved it!

Of course I had to wear an Eclipse shirt with Edward on it! :)

Here you can see up close my slammin' hot shirt, Cullen crest necklace, and twilight bracelet.

I had such a good time with friends and family these past couple of days. Thanks to everyone who made this premier the best one yet. Just 504 days till Breaking Dawn is released (the next Twilight movie) Good thing I've got Harry Potter to keep me going until then! :)

Paramore in May

2010-07-01T15:19:00.007-06:00

This past May my sister in law, Abbey, and I went to the Paramore concert. I'm just now getting the pictures off my phone so I thought I would finally blog about it. Abbey and I love Paramore and when ever they come to town we try to go. This tour was so much fun and I can't wait for the next one

Me rockin' my Paramore Tee

This is the best picture I could get of them playing. The lead singer, Hailey Williams, has the most amazing voice!

We were so happy to be there!

Way too cool for school!

Thanks for going with me Abbey, yet again, on our amazing rock band tour. Can't wait for the next one!

What's More American Than Baseball?

2010-06-23T18:06:00.004-06:00

So this past month has been super busy for me so I haven't been updating my blog, I have more to post but here is a little of what you have missed:

Recently Jake and I went to a Bee's game with some of our friends. I had a blast and I recommend it to everyone.

This is me trying to understand the rules of basball.

Bee's stadium on a beautiful day :)

Just chill'n

I tested out my camera's zoom and tried to get a good picture of Jake's school. I think it looks pretty good, and yes we are UTE fans!!! :)

The night ended with an awesome fireworks show. It was better than some 4th of July shows. Totally worth it! :)

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T23:09:00.004-06:00

Today was a great Mother's Day. I had a wonderful lunch with my mom and grandma, then we headed to Jake's mom's house for dinner.

I am so lucky to have such a strong, beautiful, and loving mother. I hope to someday be as good a mother as her. I love you mommy!

After church mom and I changed into matching sweats. Aren't we just darling?!

Pirate Island

2010-05-07T13:57:00.005-06:00

Ahoy Maties!!! This past Monday I went to Pirate Island in Provo to celebrate Abbey's belated birthday with the family. I had such a fun time! It was totally like the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland! The whole place was decorated in a pirate theme, all the employees were dressed up, there was fun music playing, and to top it all off it was Bingo night! :) I felt like a kid again.

The birthday girl and me. Can you tell I am excited? The pirate ship behind us has cannons, and every 20 minutes or so they would go off! It was awesome!

Abbey, our waiter, and me

This section of the restaurant reminded me of the Blue Bayou restaurant at Disneyland

There is treasure by the restrooms!

Great Salad Bar!

"Cave of Death" leading to the "Arrrrcade"

"Release the Cannons!"

What a great time! If you every need to get away and wish you could go to Disneyland, Pirate Island is the next best thing.

P.S. there is a pirate play ship with slides for the little ones :)

4 Years! Can You Believe It?

2010-04-13T07:34:00.005-06:00

Jake and I have been married 4 years today. I can't believe it has been that long! I guess that is a good sign, I must love him. Jake is an amazing husband and I couldn't have asked for anyone better then him. He truly is my soul mate.

Thank you for everything Jake. I'm so happy that I get to spend eternity with you. I love you!

Lacey and Dan

2010-04-12T17:03:00.010-06:00

On Saturday, April 10th, Jake's brother Dan and his fiance Lacey were married in the Salt Lake Temple. It was a beautiful day and Lacey was a gorgeous bride. I had such a fun time and I loved helping out on their special day. It was great to have Lacey's family there visiting from Georgia. They are so nice and I love that we could spend time with them. We are so happy for Dan and Lacey and I'm excited to have Lacey be a part of the family.

It was also really nice for Jake and I to be able to see a marriage in the Temple this time of year. Our 4 year wedding anniversary is tomorrow, April 13th, and the ceremony brought back some wonderful memories of that special day. I love you Jake!

It's official!

Here is the front entrance at the reception, held at Dianne's house. The cameras were for the guest to take pictures of each other. It was a very cute idea.

The weather was perfect and the tent worked great! Thanks Brian!

Abbey and I having a blast with the Wedding Cameras :)

the Williams girls

A Jaguar came to take them away, they are now in Mexico on their Honeymoon. I am so jealous! It was a beautiful day. Congratulations!!

Abbey's sweet 19

2010-04-06T14:58:00.002-06:00

I can't believe that Jake's little sister Abbey is officially 19. When I first met her she was a cute little 14 yr old. Now she is a beautiful, smart, mature, young woman going to BYU to get her nursing degree. We were lucky enough to have her come home from her busy school schedule for her birthday.

Abbey and cute little Kaitlyn

Make a wish! I love this picture: Cameron and Kaitlyn helping Abbey blow out the candles while Dianne strikes this awesome pose!

Abbey shares my obsession with all things Twilight so we had to get her the New Moon DVD.

Dianne got her some super cute shirts, Kaitlyn was so nice to help show them off :)

More Twilight! Best sleep shirt ever, I think Kaitlyn agrees!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun!

2010-04-06T14:28:00.010-06:00

Most of you know by now that Jake's brother Dan is getting married this Saturday to a beautiful girl from Gerogia. Her name is Lacey and this past Friday Jake's sisters, mom, and I threw her a Bachelorette Party. It was really fun! We had Cafe Rio salads for dinner and then went to La Caille for dessert. We then watched 'Bride Wars' while I waxed, tinted, and beautified.

On our way to La Caille for some fabulous dessert

Dianne and her girls chillin', waiting for our table

Two hotties :)

Best banana's foster ever! We also had chocolate cake, creme brulee, and beignets. Yummy!!

Just a little something for the wedding night ;)

The next night, on Saturday. The rest of the Fellows family had a shower for Lacey and she also got this smokin' hot lingerie.

Dan is going to be a lucky man! :)

I Did It!

2010-03-25T07:23:00.004-06:00

Over the weekend I completed the 2010 Canyonlands Half Marathon in Moab Utah. I finished with an average of just above a 9 min mile. I had such I good time and met some friends a long the way. It was also a fun girls trip for my mom and I. I hope I can do it again someday.

Getting ready to start. It's tradition for me to take this picture before a race, but don't worry I really didn't think I would be number one, But I did place with in the first couple thousand out of about 5,000 racers.

Jake's cousin Marie, her friend Meghan, and me. I'm so glad I found these girls at the beginning of the race. It was nice to start it out with some friends
The run was beautiful! I kept telling random people how pretty it was and I would pull out my camera to take pictures (and yes I was running while taking these, I don't think I ever stopped to walk in fear that I wouldn't start up again)

8 miles gone and I feel great!

Near the end of the canyon

A very nice man saw me taking pictures so he offered to take a picture of me so I could document that I was actually there. I love how nice everyone was.

I Did it!!! 13.1 miles! Near the end I thought I was going to pass out but I made it and I felt great! Just kidding I really felt horrible, physically, but emotional I was great!

To treat myself I got a pedicure and new sandals afterwards, sooo worth it!!!

Can't forget that my mom was with me, cheering me on at the finish line. She is such a trooper. She just had surgery but she insisted on coming down with me. I had such a good time with her. Thanks for coming mom, Love you!

Moab Half Marathon, I'm stoked!!

2010-03-19T13:44:00.002-06:00

I'm off to go run the half marathon in Moab! I'm so excited but a little nervous. I've never ran this long before, so I'm a little worried I won't be able to keep a 10 min mile. Wish me luck! I'll let you all know how it goes and I will take plenty of pictures! My mom is so nice to go down to moab with me. She'll hang out while I run and then we are going to have pedicures after the race and walk around arches national park.

First Eclipse Trailer

2010-03-14T01:14:00.003-07:00

I don't have much to say except, the Eclipse trailer is out and I'm so excited! Everyone.... Enjoy!

My Very Own Mr.Darcy

2010-03-09T22:30:00.009-07:00

WARNING: THIS POST IS SUPER CHEESY, SO IF YOU LOVE CHEESE PLEASE READ :)

Who says there isn't anyone like Darcy or Edward anymore? Just because guys aren't vampires or they don't wear tight riding pants, tall boots and a jacket with tails, doesn't mean they can't act and be just like the characters we fall in love with in our favorite books. I am lucky to believe that I am married to someone just like them!

Today I was trying to run 6 miles, soaking wet, in the horrible rain/snow. Just as I was about to give up, my "white knight" showed up in our blue Honda element to rescue me from the freezing cold sleet. As soon as we got home he gave me a perfect pink rose that he picked up on his way home from work (I had to take a picture of it. It really was perfect!). He then continued to draw me a bath and pick out one of my favorite books, "Eclipse", for me to read while I was soaking in the bath. (Oh and he wasn't done there.) As I was taking a bath he cooked dinner! And to top it all off I dragged him to ward talent night and he didn't even complain! Jake is always doing things like this for me. I don't know what I did to deserve it but I am so lucky to have him. So, this is just a little note to all my single ladies out there: There is still hope! I found my "Mr. Darcy" and so can you.

Again I apologize for the sappiness, but it comes out of me ever so often :)

Eclipse Trailer on Remeber Me

2010-03-04T15:29:00.003-07:00

OK ladies, it's official. The very first "Eclipse" trailer will be on the previews of "Remember Me", released on Friday March 12th. If you want to come join me freak out during the trailer and gush every time Robert Pattinson is on the screen, give me a call!

Happy Love Day!

2010-02-16T00:06:00.003-07:00

This Valentine's Day weekend was so fun! The celebrations started on Friday where my school went all out for the holiday. We decorated the classroom with streamers and hearts, gave out valentines, and ate lots of candy. Throughout the weekend I made 4 batches of homemade Strawberry Cupcakes (I even pureed strawberries, I was very proud of myself) and to finish the weekend off Jake and I stayed at Hotel Monaco downtown on Sunday night. I haven't had this much fun on Valentine's Day in a long time, and I think those cupcakes are a new, fun and yummy tradition that is going to continue for a long time :)

It was so fun to pretend to be a housewife right out of the 50's
These cupcakes taste just like Valentine's Day should!

Jake gave me these beautiful lilies :)

My students were so fun on Friday. A couple of my students were so nice to give me this flower to celebrate the holiday.

It's official....I'm a Vampire!

2010-02-12T14:18:00.005-07:00

Last month I went to help a friend out by doing the make-up at her Vampire Photo Shoot. Right before the shoot began she let me know that she needed more models and that she wanted me to be added into the shoot. I was kinda of reluctant but since it had to do with Vampires I was all over it! I had a blast and it was fun to pretend and act like a Vampire for a day. Here are some of the pics she gave me. To check out a lot more cool photos go to

www.stillmemeoriesbytomi.com

P.S. These are supposed to be fantasy so please take them lightly. I know I'm not really a Vampire even though I wish I could be. :)

Twilight, What Have You Done To My Wife?

2010-01-25T13:19:00.002-07:00

Chill Out and Get Healthy!

2010-01-04T11:07:00.004-07:00

So I've been trying to get the right knowledge so I can start living more healthy and lose weight for this year. I was browsing through Barnes and Nobel the other day and I stumbled across this book, "Chill Out and Get Healthy: live clean to be strong and stay sexy". It was a catchy title so I picked it up and I liked what I saw so I decided to go on a whim and buy it and now I think it is one of the best things I have done! This book is focused on helping women do exactly what it says: To stay healthy, strong, and sexy for the rest of my life. The author is in Chinese Medicine and does acupuncture for a living so I was a little skeptical but I decided to read it anyway.

Here are some of the things I really liked about her book: She doesn't push her "beliefs" on you, meaning, she doesn't tell you to go out right now and go to a Chinese Medicine practitioner or start doing acupuncture. She preaches a balanced diet (That includes meat!) just make sure what you are eating is organic and natural. She also tells you to do everything in moderation. Have fun on the weekend! It won't be the end of the world if you have a cheeseburger and fries. And not only does she talk about diet but she helps you to destress and chill out to help you get through the hard things in life.

If you are trying to get healthy and live a better life style but you just don't know exactly how to get there then this book is for you! I'm currently training for a half marathon and it has given me some great tools to help my training. There is also a whole chapter dedicated on helping you get pregnant. She shows you how to get the healthiest body possible that a baby could grow in. Her ways have actually helped infertile women, in the past, get pregnant by improving the quality of their eggs! It's crazy but I think I believe it. Ladies, you really need to get this book! Start getting healthy and sexy with me!

Christmas Time is Here!

2009-12-23T12:12:00.003-07:00

Things have been super busy this Holiday season but we have had such a fun time preparing for Christmas.

Grandma and I baked cookies and candy, I'm constantly listening to Christmas music, We've been to a couple Christmas parties with friends and family, and I was lucky enough to go see the "Christmas Carol" production at Hale Center Theatre with my mom and grandma.

I love decorating for Christmas, so not only did I decorate my house but I also decorated my mom's house and my grandma's.

I love the spirit of Christmas and I am so happy I have had such a good time celebrating Christmas this year! and it's not over yet! Christmas is just the day after tomorrow. :)

Here is our humble Christmas tree. It is 6ft tall and somewhat on the skinny side but we love it and the best thing about it is that it's fake. So there are no pine needles, no disposing of it, and it is totally the "green" thing to do :) I miss the smell of pine though so I got a pine scented candle and now my whole house smells like Christmas!

Belated Thanksgiving

2009-12-08T11:18:00.005-07:00

Due to the fact that I still do not have a camera I have been unable to post about the wonderful Thanksgiving I had this year. My father-in-law has pictures of the whole family but we are having a hard time getting them via email.

I was looking through my phone the other day and found that I had 4 pictures from the Thanksgiving weekend. All of them are of me but at least I can document something. :)

Here was my contribution to the feast. I made a praline Pumpkin pie. I thought is was very good and it's probably because it was a Test Kitchen recipe. Test Kitchen will never fail you. FYI the side of the crust that is darker is just some of the filling that spilled out. I promise it isn't burned :)

That morning before we ate I did our lovely tradition of running the Cold Turkey 6K up millcreek canyon. It was fun to workout and hang out with the fam!

The day after Thanksgiving Jake and I left with his Dad and siblings, including Dan's fiancee, Lacey (whom I love!), for Escalante. We were there until Sunday and we had a blast! Jeff took so many amazing photos and I hope that I will get some soon but these are all I had. They are both of me and kinda silly but at least you can tell that we had fun!

Here I am crawling out of a hole and I think the look on my face is pure stupidity! haha

I dedicate this picture to Abbey, who was unable to come with us this year. Last year she laid across this same ledge and did this same pose as I took her picture. We missed you Abbey!

New Moon Is Here!!!

2009-11-20T13:43:00.008-07:00

OK so I wont say too much cause I know that not everyone was insane and went to the New Moon premier like me but I have to say that I loved it to so much!! The action, CGIs, acting, cinematography, and basically everything blew me away! I was expecting something just like Twilight but I was pleasantly surprised! But I always find it's best to go into a movie with low expectation. I can't wait till you all see it so we can talk about it!! :)

Last night I went with my sister-in-laws Angie and Abbey and my friend Mandy came too with a friend. These girls were so fun! I love going with fellow Twihards! I didn't get a picture of all of us but here is a picture of Abbey and I after the movie. We look a little tired but we are so happy!

Me as Rosalie and Abbey as Alice.

We dressed in our full Cullen attire, and wore our golden contacts. People even took pictures of us! haha! We are true fans, or true nerds, however you want to take it.

New Moon Cast Tour in Salt Lake City!!!

2009-11-14T22:27:00.010-07:00

So 2 weeks ago Abbey and I waited 8 hrs in the mall to get wrist bands to meet 2 of the cast members from "New Moon". Tonight we finally got to meet them and it was so worth it!! We met Edi Gathegi and Jamie Campbell. They play the vampires Laurent and Ciaus. Not only did we get a poster autographed but I had a heart to heart with Edi and asked Jamie about the up and coming Harry Potter movie he is in! I know what you're thinking, "Stephanie is so lucky!!". If you aren't into Twilight these people will mean nothing to you but to me and Abbey, we were completely star stuck!

First here are the pictures of us waiting in line a couple weeks ago from midnight to 8am. 8 hrs is a looong time to be sitting on a mall floor!

Abbey was happily reading Twilight while letting me know there was only 4 hrs left, Yipee! (insert sarcasm)

Abbey's first diet coke in 6 yrs! She's gone insane!

Finally! The sun is out and we are ecstatic! We finally have our New Moon Cast Tour wrist bands and T-shirts!

New Moon Cast Tour 2009:
The following are photos of tonight when we finally got to meet Edi and Jamie!

Back in the same line again, but this time it's only a 2 hr wait. I can totally handle that!

Abbey and I were decked out in our New Moon Cast Tour T-shirts. Isn't Abbey cute?

The following is a play by play of my conversation with the two cast members, Edi and Jamie. Better known as Laurent and Ciaus!

Edi: "Hello"
Stephanie: "Hi, it's so nice to meet you, thank you so much for coming out tonight."
Edi: "It's our pleasure"
(the next thing that was said was out of pure fun and please don't take it the wrong way:) )
Stephanie: "You have beautiful eyes, even without your contacts"
Edi: "thank you that is very sweet, and your eyes are very beautiful too."
Stephanie: "Thank you :)"

Jamie:" Hello"
Stephanie: "Hey! how's it going?"
Jamie: "great"
Stephanie: "I have to ask you a question, do you really kiss Dumbledore in Harry Potter?"
(to understand this you have to know that Jamie is playing Grindelwald in the next Harry Potter, who is Dumbledore's best friend when he's younger and suspected to be his love interest. It's all a joke and only came out after the books where written)
Jamie:" no, no, not in the movie, but maybe in real life." laugh and wink ;)
Edi: "Who's Dumbledore?"

Jamie:"Oh stop joking around!"
Stephanie and Abbey: "Thank you so much!"
Edi and Jamie: " Your welcome, thank you for coming!"

They were so stinking nice and pretty funny too. After the signing there was a concert by Anya Marina who is featured in the New Moon sound track and then a Q&A with Edi and Jamie on stage. They were so funny and Abbey and I were having a blast!

Anya Marina sounded great live.

Edi and Jamie, super cute and super funny!

Me with my autographed poster and trying to look cool. Haha! :)

Thank you so much Abbey for being a complete Twilight nerd with me! I had a blast and I am still in shock that I met and joked with cast members from New Moon!!! I wish all of you could have been there. I'm so glad there are so many of you that share my love for Twilight.
Oh and to top it all off New Moon premier is in 5 days! I can't wait!!!
P.S. I love Edward :)

Indian Princesses

2009-11-05T22:35:00.002-07:00

So I was lucky enough to find this picture on Jake's cousin's blog. This is a picture of all us girls dressed up in our Indian costumes on Halloween. Angie is the best sister-in-law ever to get these outfits straight from India for us! We had so much fun dressing up like Indian Beauties!

Angie, Me, Dianne, Abbey

Halloween Pics are Here!

2009-11-03T14:18:00.008-07:00

The moment has arrived. My wonderful cousin Erin sent me her pictures that she had taken at the Halloween Party at Dianne's house. We had a great time eating chili, scones, cupcakes, and candy, carving pumpkins, watching Halloween movies including the infamous "Young Frankenstein", and greeting Trick-o-Treaters.

Jake and Nick were Teletubbies together. They both were the Tinky Winky character. If you've never seen the Teletubbies below I posted a picture of them. They look pretty freaky and I totally forgot that Tinky Winky carried a red purse around. I should have let Jake barrow mine. Haha!

No Comment

Jake and I make a perfect couple, don't you think?

Angie went to India this past September and brought back these Saris for Dianne, Abbey, and I. I wish I had a picture of all of us. We looked so cute together. Thanks Angie for giving me the coolest Halloween costume ever!

Angie brought back Bindis from India too and I did our makeup. It was pretty fun getting ready. :)

I even found these temporary Henna tattoos at the Costume Closet. They were very hard to take off. I still had most of it on me when I had to lead the music in sacrament meeting! Oh well, it was totally worth it.

When the boys got too hot my cousin's little girl, Kaitlyn, took over the Teletubbies heads. First she was pretending she was working out and she would lift them like weights. Then they became purses. She was so cute! We couldn't stop laughing.
Oh and notice the cute Skeleton PJs she's wearing. They even glow in the dark. Super Cute!!

Halloween, Books, and Life!

2009-11-03T10:40:00.005-07:00

So ever since my camera broke last spring I have resorted to either using my phone camera or using someone else's. For Halloween I didn't take any pictures from my phone but I promise there are pictures. I'm just waiting for them to be emailed to me. Once I get them you can see Jake as an adorable Tinky Winky Teletubbi and me as an Indian princess. Halloween was a blast! We had a party at Dianne's house so of course I stuffed my self with candy and food.

Until the pictures come I'll tell you about the book I just finished. I'm sure everyone of you know by now that I have been dealing with Infertility treatments. This book "Conquering Infertility" by Dr. Alice Domar was a wonderful insight on the lives of couples dealing with infertility. It's not only a great book for those experiencing Infertility first hand but it is a good reference for those who have loved ones dealing with infertility. It gives coping tools for the Infertile couple including, meditation, relaxation, yoga, counseling etc. But it also gives people the chance to understand Infertility and to know how to act around someone who is going through this trial. It was a very well researched book and I was shocked at how many people are going through the same thing as me. If you are currently dealing with Infertility you have to read this book or if you just dont understand the subject then it might be a good thing to check out so you can see what Infertile couples go through on a day to day basis.

Also a little update on us. Since we have been trying 21 months, 12 of which have been on infertility treatments and meds, and just recently experiencing a possible early miscarriage we have decided to take a hiatus on trying. I'm going to try and enjoy life for a change and get back to the real Stephanie that loves to read, ski, workout, be with family, be outdoors, travel, and be HAPPY! :) I appreciate every ones love and support. I also appreciate every ones patients with me. I'm sorry if this post was TMI but writing this down for all to see is the best way for me to cope. It is definitely easier then telling you all face to face. Thank you again. Love you all!

Catching Fire

2009-10-14T11:40:00.004-06:00

Last night I finished the second book of the "Hunger Games", called, "Catching Fire". It was awesome! It was even more intense and nail biting then the first book. It sucks you right in from where the first book left off and it deals with issues that the main character, and the reader, now understand, so you feel more emotionally attached. It is also a whole different game from the first book and I loved it. The only down side was the huge cliffhanger at the end! I now have to wait till next year to read the third book because it hasn't even been published yet. I hear this book series is so popular that the first book, "Hunger Games", is going to be made into a movie. That is going to be an amazing site to see if they stick with the book! I'm so excited to have an other series to follow. These books are definitely on my top 5 list!

The Hunger Games

2009-10-09T10:00:00.002-06:00

After Twilight I've been in somewhat of a novel funk. Nothing seems to be good enough. Except for the Gemma Doyle Trilogy, but that lasted only a month and I was back to square one. Nothing seemed exciting to read anymore and it was hard to get through anything, up until my sister in law Angie and cousin Erin told me I had to read "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins. I had heard of the book before on a Twilight fan website due to the fact that it was Stephenie Meyers favorite book over the summer. But for some reason I just ignored it. I am so happy my family got me to read this book. It isn't just about love (which we all know I have to have) It is mostly a action, survival, thriller. When I actually had time to sit down and read this book it took me a total of 3 days to finish it. After the first little bit I could not put it down. It is definitely one of my favorite books. I finished "The Hunger Games" last night around 1am and the first thing I'm doing this morning is buying the sequel, "Catching Fire". A word of advice; makes sure you all ready of the sequel on you when you finish this book. I hate waiting to have to go get it!

Happy Reading!

Sexy People

2009-10-06T16:00:00.002-06:00

Below is an amazing blog called "Sexy People". I found the link to it while looking at an old high school friend's blog. It is hilarious and will always be my go to blog when I am feeling down. If you have just a few extra seconds please check it out. It will make your day! :)

http://www.sexypeople-blog.com/

Better & More Twilight Party Pictures

2009-10-02T11:13:00.004-06:00

My wonderful cousin Erin sent me these great pictures of my Twilight Birthday Party. My camera is completely broken and I was using the camera on my phone, which is horrible. Thank you so much Erin for these pictures! This was the most extravagant birthday party I have ever had and it will probably be the last (due to the fact that I am an adult and shouldn't act like I'm 12 year old 24/7) but it was so much fun and well worth the hard work. Thank you everyone for helping it make a Twilight night to remember!

Cousins: Brian and Erin. Don't you love Brian's shirt?! Erin made it especially for him. Yes she is multi- talented in all things good!

Here is a close up of Erin's amazing sugar cookies. Yes those wolves were cut out by hand and red food coloring was added to the chocolate to make that reddish/brown fur. Talk about dedication. Oh and don't forget Edward's sparkling diamond heart!

Make a wish!

I love how this picture shows how red everything was! :)

Erin's beautiful baby Hailey even got included in all the fun! And yes Erin made her shirt too!

Close look at the entry way table.

It was great to be able to snuggle up to Edward in this warm fuzzy fleece!

Picture of my whole outfit including the shoes. FYI the heels on those shoes are 5 inches. It takes sheer talent to walk all night in those babies!

This really shows my contacts perfectly! I love the, just had my vegetarian meal, glow. If you didn't know my eye color is originally blue/grey, so this is a huge change. It really freaked me out when I would look in the mirror!

Last but definitely not least: Alice, Edward, and Rosalie. What a happy family!

Twilight Birthday with the Fam

2009-09-28T23:12:00.005-06:00

This past Friday for my birthday I had a Twilight themed Birthday Party at my Mother-In-Law's, with Jake's family. It was so fun! If you don't know by now, I am obsessed with Twilight and Edward Cullen.

We went all out on decorations and dressing up. I dressed as one of the Cullen family members (Rosalie) with amber colored contacts and all. I wish I had more pictures with everyone who came but I didn't have a good camera. Hopefully I can steal some pictures from Erin.

This was my favorite decoration. Right as you walk in at the entry way table was a beautiful candelabra, the Twilight book and framed quotes by Edward.

Once inside the decor continues with streamers, candles, roses, Edward quotes, and the Twilight Trivia Game. Of course everyone was either in a Twilight shirt, costume, or dressed in black and red. Cousin Tamara and Aunt Marianne.

Everywhere you went there was Twilight memorabilia. I know it's super nerdy!

The dessert was awesome! There was red velvet cake, vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, red and black candy, apples, and thanks to Erin, she made red/brown wolves, and sparkling heart sugar cookies. I was so impressed by her detail that I had to take a picture of them. She even had to cut out the wolves by hand! She is amazing!

Here I am dressed as Rosalie herself. It took months to find all the pieces of the outfit. If you ever watch Twilight I am wearing the outfit that Rosalie wears when she is seen for the first time walking in for school lunch.

This is me trying to give the Rosalie "glare". Can you see my amber contacts? The lighting isn't so great. Oh and I even added her beauty mark above her lip. :)

Me and Edward. Who knew I was so popular that Robert Pattinson would actually come to my party? Haha

The Williams Girls

Abbey A.K.A. Alice (doesn't she look great?!), Angie in her Twilight red and black and Twilight jewelry, and Moi A.K.A Rosalie.

All who entered were greeted with this lovely warning! :)

I can't wait till the next movie comes out! I feel like a little kid at Christmas.

Good Luck Bro, We'll Miss You!

2009-09-16T11:23:00.004-06:00

My brother Jeff and his family left today for Turkey for 3 years!! He is a JAG Officer in the Air National Guard and will be stationed in the military base in Turkey. I'm going to miss all of them so much but I know it is what he should be doing and I am so proud of him. I hope someday I could go visit him. Maybe I'll win the lottery and will be able to afford to go:)

Before Jeff left we had lunch at grandma's house on Monday. Here is a picture of all the cousins, even 1 week old Ava. The next time they will be all together they'll be a lot older :(

Bennett, Aubrey, Ava, Rylan, and Carter

3rd New Moon Trailer Leaked Out Early!!!

2009-09-13T12:25:00.008-06:00

The 3rd New Moon trailer got leaked out early!!! It was going to come out at the MTV VMAs tonight but someone all ready posted it on youtube. It is over 2 mins long, it is amazing, and I love it! It is kind of a spoiler so if you want to be surprised, don't see it. This is by far the best trailer yet!

Enjoy!! and let me know what you think!

Baby Ava Is Here!

2009-09-08T09:07:00.005-06:00

My oldest brother and his wife Jayme brought Ava into the world yesterday, September 7th at around 11:30am. She was a healthy 6lbs 8oz. They all ready have two kids (Bennett 4, and Carter will be 2 soon) but Ava is the first girl. She is all ready a princess, with her hot pink bow and her multiple girly pink presents we brought her. She's so beautiful and I'm so happy for her parents! We love you Ava! welcome to our family. (I'm sure your brothers will teach you the ropes!)

I love how tiny newborns are!

I love my little niece Ava. I will always be there for her, especially when her big brothers are teasing her. I have a lot of experience in that field and I can give her a few tips ;).

New Moon Movie Tickets

2009-09-05T11:43:00.003-06:00

Yes, it's true!!! New Moon movie tickets are all ready on sale for opening night on November 20th! I was a little late in finding out. They were on sale at the beginning of the day yesterday but I didn't find out till last night and all the midnight showings were all ready sold out! So I had to do the next best thing, I got tickets at the 2:45am showing. I'm a little disappointed but I'll get over it.

Summit also came out with a new poster for New Moon with just Edward and Bella. I've been waiting for this one for a long time. I love it!

Here is the whole Volturi gang. This poster gets me so excited!

Also I had to post the newest photo of Rosalie in New Moon cause she looks so much better then she did in first Twilight movie. FYI I am dressing up as Rosalie for a special occasion coming up! :)

New Chapter in life

2009-08-28T12:10:00.004-06:00

So I'm sure most of you know that I have helped create Namaste Med Spa for the past year and a half. It was an amazing experience and I have learned so much, from how to create a floor plan, make invoices, make orders, manage employees, to creating treatment protocols and pretty much run a spa.

I would never change it for the world but I am now redirecting my life. I feel that I have gotten all that I can out of Namaste and I am focusing more on trying to start a family and going back to school to finish getting my Art History degree.

I definitely will keep my foot in the spa industry. I'm teaching school Wednesday nights at Skinworks School of Advanced Skincare and I am planning on opening my own spa with-in the next 10 yrs or so. I wanted to thank all my family and friends for their love and support during this process of opening Namaste. I'm so proud of what I have created. I have discovered so much about myself and my abilities and I will take what I have learned with me in all of my endeavours.
Thanks again to all my family, friends, and clients. I am excited for the next chapter in my life and I am grateful for this experience I have had in creating Namaste Med Spa.

-Namaste

If you are a client and wish to continue your treatments at Namaste please call their new office number at: 801-495-9290

Cinderella Party Pictures

2009-08-23T17:30:00.006-06:00

I promised pictures of the party and here they are! It was so much fun! The girls loved it and they were in shock that the real Cinderella came to the birthday party. Cinderella and the Birthday Girl, Mia. She is now 3 years old!

Cinderella and my niece Rylan. She never once mentioned that I was aunt Stephie. Thanks Rylan!

Cinderella and my niece Aubrey. She had no idea it was me. She really thought it was Cinderella :)

Cinderella and all of her little princess friends

The cute Cinderella Cake. This was the best princess party ever!

Don't miss the post below! There are pics from my Zion Narrows hike.

Belated Zion Narrows Pics

2009-08-23T16:41:00.004-06:00

Two weeks ago Jake and I went down to Zion National Park with my mom and my uncle Mark. We hiked the Zion Narrows and it was a blast! It is our favorite hike and we try to do it once a year. The Narrows is a long hike and takes place mostly in the river. On both sides of the river are towering cliffs and beautiful wildlife. You can choose to hike the whole Narrows from top to bottom and it takes about 10 hrs, I have done that in the past, but this year we started at the bottom, went up a ways, and then came back down. I recommend this hike to everyone. It is such an exciting hike, and can cater to any one from an expert hiker to a novice.

Jake and I getting a little wet!

This is a beautiful spring that came straight down into the virgin river

My Mom and I

You have to use a hiking stick on this hike or you will fall in the water.

I can't wait till we do the hike again next year!

Cinderella Party

2009-08-22T13:51:00.005-06:00

I had so much fun today! I was asked to be Cinderella at my sister-in-law's niece's birthday party. Mia was turning 3 and was having a princess birthday party. I had such a good time. I wish I had pictures of me with the little girls. It was so cute, they really thought I was the real Cinderella and they hung on my every word. I might be able to get pictures from my sister-in-law later but until then here are the pictures of me that I took before I left for the party.

New, New Moon Trailer, Yay!

2009-08-19T08:46:00.002-06:00

Ok so I still haven't figured out how to put a video on my blog but please click the link below to see the newest and longest New Moon trailer. You even get a glimps of the Vultori!! :) Enjoy!

http://video.hitfix.com/services/player/bcpid1861161894?bctid=34318923001

Gemma Doyle Series completed but left me wanting more!!

2009-08-12T11:04:00.005-06:00

I finally finished the last installment of the Gemma Doyle Series: "The Sweet Far Thing" by Libba Bray. It was by far the best book out of the three. Which could be contributed to the fact that it was 819 pages long, so there was a lot of time to develop plot and characters. Some might complain about the books length but I loved it! I wish it could have kept going. It's one of those books you wish you could just live in and it never ends. Oh well, we all know that can never happen. But this is sure to keep you captivated for at least a week of your life. It took me close to a month because of work, responsibilities and the fact that I read slower because I didn't want it to end.

Now don't be confused, my love for this book is nothing compared to how I feel about Twilight. But since the Twilight series is over and I cant just read it for the rest of my life, I have to take shots at other romantic and adventurous books. If you are living in the land of the lost since Twilight, this series is a great pick me up. Now that I've finished the Gemma Doyle Series I feel like I am back to the same desperate state that I was in after Twilight was over. I need another hit of something, and I need it fast!!! Who knew books could be just like drugs?!

Yellowstone Excursion

2009-07-29T22:18:00.009-06:00

This past weekend Jake and I went with his father and siblings to Yellowstone. We had such a good time. Jake's dad rented a cabin on 20 acres of open space right outside West Yellowstone in Montana. It was so beautiful! I wish we could have stayed a month longer. We would love to have our own cabin up there someday but until then renting is a really good way to go!

On our way up to Yellowstone we passed the Grand Tetons. I'm always amazed at how big they really are.

Here are a couple pictures of the cabin we stayed at. It was beautiful and the surrounding valley was breath-taking.

The first morning there I had to go for a run. It is by far my new favorite place to run outside.

Me, Abbey and Angie in front of Earthquake Lake

Good Ol' Faithful

While on our Yellowstone excursion we did some fishing. Well everyone but Abbey and I. We prefer to read. I loved this picture of Nick. I think his line is stuck.

Before going out to fish we all practiced on our casting skills. Jake is by far the most talented. He can still fly fish while I attack him!

On our last day in Yellowstone we ran into some Buffalo. It was Nick's first time ever seeing them so that was lots of fun! At one point we were delayed half an hour because of Buffalo on the road.

This picture is for anyone who has ever seen Brett Michaels or the show Rock of Love. I am the girl version of him!! HaHa!

Jake and I in front of the Lower Falls in the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The picture doesn't do it justice. It was huge!

We had a really great time in Yellowstone. I can't wait till we can go back again and stay longer!

Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince

2009-07-16T16:54:00.003-06:00

The night of July 14th was the Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince movie premier. Jake and I invited 3o of our friends and family to enjoy this experience with us!

Abbey in her Harry Potter garb, Jake as Harry Potter himself, and I'm Hermione Granger!

Watch out for Nick and I, we know the killing curse! Avada Cadavra!

Our cousins Allyx and Dan. They are Hermione and Ron Weasley, What a cute couple!

Dan: Ron , Allyx: Hermione, Taylor: Harry Potter Geek, Jessie: Tonks, Erin and Nick: Harry Potter Geeks, Me: Hermione, Jake: Harry Potter, Dianne: Harry Potter Geek, and last but not least Kaitlyn: Ready for Bed

Sectum Sempra!

Rebel Angels

2009-07-11T17:54:00.003-06:00

I just finished the second instalment of the Gemma Doyle Trilogy, "Rebel Angels". I was surprised that it was actually more exciting than the first book. There is a lot more suspense and intrigue. It is full of twists and turns to the plot and it always kept me guessing. The ghosts in this book are also more frequent and pretty frightening. Again I recommend this series to anyone wanting a good fast read. I really couldn't put it down till it was done!

Now it's on to the last of the Trilogy, "The Sweet Far Thing"

A Great and Terrible Beauty

2009-06-30T10:01:00.002-06:00

I just finished the first book of the Gemma Doyle Trilogy called, "A Great and Terrible Beauty" by Libba Bray. I had so much fun reading this book. It's one of those that you just can't put down till it is completely done! I found it in the teen section at Barnes and Nobles, so lets just say it was a very easy read. This book has everything I like: it takes place in Victorian England, It is full of mystery, suspense, romance, beauty, gossip, and even some ghosts to get the blood pumping! I recommend it to anyone who wants to get swept away if a fanciful world for a few hours. I just started the second book on the Gemma Doyle Trilogy, "Rebel Angels". It seems to be very promising. I'll let you know how it is!

Broken Camera

2009-06-18T10:26:00.003-06:00

So if you're wondering why I don't post very often, I have a very simple answer: My camera is broken. Yes my beautiful Nikon camera that Jake gave me for Christmas is broken. Every time I turn it on the screen says Lens Error and the lens will not open! Hopefully I can get this fixed asap. I've also been very busy/stressed at my work. So as soon as I get a minute and I have a camera that actually works I will start posting again.

At least my camera doesn't look this bad!

New Moon Exclusive Photo Scene! I'm not joking!!

2009-05-28T09:54:00.005-06:00

So if you haven't seen it yet you need to now! Fans of New Moon have come together with their photos and created this amazing sequence of one of the most pivotal scenes in all of New Moon. I'm stupid with computers and I don't know how to post youtube on my blog so please click the link below. Oh and you might want to lay a pillow down next to you; people have been known to faint while watching this!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CIF95lF557Y

Best Concert To Date!

2009-05-26T13:09:00.006-06:00

Last night Abbey and I went to the Paramore/ No Doubt concert at the E Center. It was amazing! Paramore has been my new favorite band for a little over a year and No Doubt was my favorite band in Jr. High and High School.No Doubt has been apart for a while so it was so cool to see them back together again.

PARAMORE!!

The lead singer of Paramore (Hailey Williams) has an awesome voice live! She sounds just as good if not better then the CD.

If you need a good concert buddy then take Abbey with you. She was rocking out right along with me. Abbey and I were definitely the best fans in the whole concert! Thanks for coming Abbey!

Bachlorette Party

2009-05-22T16:34:00.004-06:00

My friend Amber got Married today to Brad Harris but a few weeks a go we threw her a surprise Bachlorette Party. It was so fun, we blind folded Amber and then dropped her off at Grande America where we had a "Grande" night out. We played games, went swimming and watched movies. It was a perfect and much needed girls night!

Christine had decorated our Suite with Bachlorette confetti, banners, and balloons

Christine and I having Sparkling Apple Cider (don't worry it's not alcohol) after swimming

Then came the presents!!!

Congratulations Amber we love you!!

Belated Post: Zions

2009-05-22T16:28:00.004-06:00

Right around our Anniversary last month Jake and I went down to Zions National Park with my mom to go hiking. We decided to hike the Overlook trail. It was very strenuous but worth it all once we got to the top and saw this beautiful view!

If you look very closely you can see a road run along the river at the bottom of the canyon. That is where we started the hike! Let's just say that my calves and knees were burning after this hike.

3 years and counting!

2009-04-14T09:49:00.008-06:00

Yesterday, April 13th, was our 3 year Anniversary. I can't believe how fast these 3 years have gone by. It literally feels like it's only been 1 year. I guess that's a good sign. It must mean we still like each other.

When I got home from work yesterday Jake had planned to take me out but I had no idea what we were doing. I was so surprised when he drove me up to Breathe Day Spa and told me he had booked a Spa Pedicure for me. I was so stinkin excited!! (If any of you have ever had a Spa Pedicure you would know that they are way better then those scary nail salons in the mall that often give foot fungi to their clients!) I was taken to a low lit room with soft music, and enjoyed the most relaxing pedicure I have ever had, while sipping on peppermint tea and eating cookies!! All the while Jake was enjoying himself at Barnes and Noble.

After wards I was so relaxed and happy but I felt bad Jake didn't get to do anything. I mean this was OUR Anniversary not just mine. But he said that all he wanted for his anniversary was to see me happy and relaxed. OK so I have the best husband on the planet!! Thank you so much Jake, I love you more than you'll ever know. Thanks for marrying me and putting up with me these 3 years!

Las Vegas!!

2009-03-23T12:32:00.011-06:00

This past weekend from Wednesday the 18th to Sunday the 22nd I went to Las Vegas with some girlfriends, and we had a blast!!

Here we are at the famous Las Vegas sign.

Emalia, Me, Aubrey, Jana, and Kirstin

First thing we did when we got down there was go dancing at some clubs. It was fun to just go with girls and have a fun time dancing and laughing.
This was looking down at the dance floor of the LAX club in the Luxor Hotel. We could barely move while we were down there. It was crazy!

The next couple days we stayed and laid out at the pool. The condo we were at had this cool lazy river and we made this chain with our tubes. Everyone at the pool loved it even random people were taking pictures of us. It was kinda silly cause we didn't think we were doing anything special. Someone even offered to take this picture for us. haha

while shopping in one of the many malls Las Vegas has to offer I found this Buddha and I had to document me rubbing it's belly!

The last night of dancing we went to Tryst at the Wynn hotel. It had a dance floor that lead into a 90 ft waterfall that fell into a Lagoon . It was awesome!

After dancing for a few hours and burning a lot of calories :-) , We were ready to go to bed. I think every night we got to bed between 2am and 4am. We would then wake up to Aubrey making breakfast around 10:30 am. It was so great!

On Saturday, the night before we left, we had the amazing opportunity to see Phantom of the Opera at the Venetian Hotel. It was so amazing!!!! The stage alone cost 35 million dollars to construct. It was a condensed 95 min version of the musical but it was spectacular. I have seen Phantom 4 times now and this was by far the best. They had a real Chandelier that seperated into 4 pieces and was lifted to the top of the theater at the beginning of the musical. Later it was dropped right before hitting the audience, the props were huge!, there was fireworks and balls of fire shot on stage, at one point Raoul jumps 20 feet down into a trap down on the stage. It was insane! It was so beautiful that I was crying practically during the whole thing! I recommend everyone who has ever liked the Phantom of the Opera musical on stage or the movie to come see it performed like never before in Vegas!

Here is what the theater looked like, and yes, that is the chandelier that falls dozens of feet! It was so cool! I had so much fun on this trip! I think I actually lost weight from all of the calories I burned laughing, dancing, and just having a blast! This was a much needed girls trip and I hope we get to do it again very soon!!

P.S. on the way home I did have the opportunity to go buy Twilight at Target and watched it on Aubrey's DVD player in her car! I recommend the Target version of Twilight cause it has the 3 disc special edition.

Draper Temple

2009-03-23T12:06:00.005-06:00

While I was on a trip to Las Vegas with some girls friends Jake got to stay home and hang with the guys. He also got to go to the Draper Temple Dedication yesterday. He took a couple siblings with him and they waited hours just to get inside. Then they watched the dedication from a small chapel in the temple. I really wish I could have gone with him, he said President Monsen even came into the chapel and greeted the children. So if any of you were wondering who was more righteous out of Jake and I, I think this was a good example: He was at a once in a life time temple dedication while I was in Las Vegas, the city of sin! haha. Well at least I have a wonderful example to look up to!

Hair Extensions Baby!

2009-03-16T21:25:00.003-06:00

Today I got super long hair extensions! It was so fun! It took about 5 hrs of sitting and pulling hair but I did it and it was well worth it! I love my new hair and I'm excited to try new things with it!

First, here are my before pictures:

Can't you see the anticipation in my eyes?

Now here are the during pics:

oh by the way Tiffany from Vamp Salon is the one doing my hair. She did an amazing job and I recommend her to anyone, even guys. Right after doing my hair she cut Jake's too. Thanks Tiff!

Here is a close up on the tedious process. It's hard to see, but if you can tell the tiny strands of hair Tiff has on her finger is how small each strand is that she works with.

And finally, the after photos:
This is me trying to look cool while being sleepy, haha!

I love how long it is now!! Even though it took a while it was so worth it! It's just in time for me to go to Las Vegas with some friends on Wednesday too! Vegas here I come!

Rebecca

2009-03-08T23:11:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago I finished Daphne DuMaurier's, 'Rebecca' . I can't believe that I haven't read it before and, even more shocking, I haven't seen the movie made by Alfred Hitchcock. ( I love old black and white movies!) Before reading this I was not expecting a suspense and I was pleasantly surprised. Like many previous books I have read I recommend this to anyone wanting to get swept away into a suspenseful romance. I'm not very good at book reviews or with writing so just believe me when I say it is truly an amazing book!

Watching the movie is the next thing on my agenda. I hope I love it as much as this book!

Jazz vs. Sacramento

2009-03-01T21:35:00.004-07:00

Last night Jake and I had the amazing opportunity to sit in the 2nd row, behind the basket, at the Jazz/ Sacramento game. We had so much fun! We are true fans so whenever we get a chance to get these seats it is like Christmas!

To celebrate I got this PINK Williams Jersey. I know what your thinking, "Why isn't it a Korver Jersey? I thought Stephanie was in-love with Korver?" and the answer is: of course I still have a crush on Korver but I couldn't resist a pink jersey with my own last name on it. Plus Deron Williams really is, talent wise, the best player on the team. It must be in the name.

Here is the view from our seats without the zoom on. Isn't it awesome! You could literally talk back to the players. Jake even passed a stray ball back to one of the members of the Sacramento team!

One of my favorite parts of the whole game is the Jazz Dancers. I know it's cheesy, but it brings out the little girl in me that wanted to be a pretty dancer.

Just some more proof on how close we really were!! It's OK to be jealous! ha ha, just kidding.

Celine Dion, Taking Chances Tour!

2009-02-23T19:41:00.004-07:00

OK so I, without a doubt, have the best husband ever! For Valentines he got me tickets to go see Celine Dion's "Taking Chances Tour". It was just last night, and it was so amazing! I was able to take my mom with me and we loved it! Celine looked so great, and I can't believe how amazing her voice is. My mom took me to go see her perform in Las Vegas for my birthday a couple years ago, so this was a great time for us to reminisce.

Celine Dion has by far the most amazing voice on the earth, especially live!

Mom and I waiting for the show to start. (sorry the quality/ color is off, it is from my phone camera)

The stage did some amazing things with floors changing levels and moving. It was also pretty cool that it was in the middle of the stadium.

Thank you so much Jake!!!

It Fits!

2009-02-18T11:57:00.002-07:00

Yes, this is my wedding dress and yes, it is completely zipped up in the back! This hasn't fit for 2 and a half years! It took a lot of hard work, sweat, and sacrifice (giving up my best friend, chocolate and exercising like crazy to be more specific) but I was so excited that i just had to share the joy!

(sorry for the bad quality, the picture came from my phone)

Happy Valentines

2009-02-16T12:40:00.003-07:00

This Valentines Jake and I had a great time hanging out during the day and then Jake took me out at night. He also got me flowers and a gift card at Nordstroms, (He really knows how to treat a girl!) and it was just so nice to have a whole day with him!

First we went to Nick's playoff basketball game. I thought it was pretty convenient that they had red jerseys for Valentines. You could feel the love :-)

Nick is #11

Here he is acting all cool. Hey, isn't that a carry?

After Nick won his Basketball game. Jake and I went to eat at Spaghetti Mama's and then to a movie.

I love asparagus.....

and I guess Jake really loves his water.

After the movie we went to a Wise Guys Comedy Club and saw Marcus. He is super famous and was on 2008's Last Comic Standing. It was a great ab work out cause of all the laughing. I had a great Valentines. Thanks Jake. I love you!

The Jake Tag

2009-02-04T21:03:00.006-07:00

This is a fun Tag all about my hubby!!! Love you Jake!
1. Where did you meet? We met on a blind date new years day 2005. His Best Friend Jo's wife set us up. I really owe her. Thanks Mandy!
2. How long did you date before you were married? Well we kinda dated on and off for 1 year and 4 months but I guess it was 11 months when we were together.
3. How long have you been married?over 2 years, in April it will be 3!
4. What does he do that surprises you?He sometimes brings me home presents for no real occasion except that he loves me. He is so sweet!
5. What is your favorite feature of his?His eyes are my favorite but I also love his smile and his strong shoulders/arms
6. What is your favorite quality of his?He always wants to make sure everyone is happy. He is really good at listening and helping people figure out there problems
7. Does he have a nickname for you? there are actually a few but my favorite, and the one he uses most is, Bessie (long story)
9. What is his favorite food?Fried Chicken and Ice Cream (Homemade)
10. What is his favorite sport?Definitely Basketball, He is actually off playing right now as I write this! haha. We also love the Jazz
11. When and where was your first kiss?January of 2005 in my mom's house
12. What do you like to do together?We love going to movies, Laying in bed watching English sitcoms, Reading together, Going on vacations and being with our friends and family
13. Do you have any children?Not yet but hopefully this year! :-)
14. Does he have a hidden talent?He can kick his legs super high, Like a dancer or something. It is so funny!
15. Who said I love you first?Jake
16. What is his favorite type of music? I'm pretty sure he likes all types of acoustic music, and he also likes the classics like Billy Joel, Elton John, James Taylor, Cat Stevens, even some Neil Diamond
17. What do you admire most about him?He is always the first to pray and he prayers over everything. his faith is so strong and he is a really good example for me and will be for our future children!
18. Do you think he will read this? I think so
I tag anyone else who wants to do this!

"New Moon" again.. better or worse?

2009-02-03T15:16:00.004-07:00

****Warning this might be a spoiler. If you haven't read "New Moon", and your planning to don't read this post****

I just finished reading "New Moon" for the second or third time. But this time around I was trying to keep an open mind with everything.Anyways....this time around I wasn't automatically thinking: "you sick dog stay away from Bella!" the first time Jacob was in the book, and I was trying to rationalize Edward's insane girly emotions and Bella's reckless behavior. By controlling my thoughts I think it helped a little. I feel like I have a better perspective where Edward and Bella are coming from (lets just admit that Edward can do no wrong). But I still hate Jacob with a passion! Maybe cause he reminds me too much of stupid boyfriends I've had in the past but I had to skip a few pages cause I couldn't stand how much that "Dog" bugged me. So putting that aside, I loved the end of New Moon. The whole time I was reading the book, the end, was all I could think about. I am really interested how they plan on making the movie with Edward being in Bella's head when she's reckless and I'm interested how they will depict the Volturi. I really hope Dakotoa Fanning accepts the part of the vampire, Jane. That being said I liked the book but it isn't my favorite from the series. Let's see if the movie changes my mind.

P.S. I love Edward!

Please Read Me!

2009-01-27T11:38:00.010-07:00

Okay so many of you might think I'm absolutely crazy for writing about this, but I really just want everyone to know what is going on. Those of you who know me, know that my life is an open book and it is a great stress reducer to talk about my problems:

For those of you who are wondering: I am not pregnant. I feel like there is a lot of confusion over this subject. I've had people ask if I'm pregnant, trying, and others who just go out and say I need to be pregnant. So I'm writing this to clarify what is going on. I promise this is not a "hate post". No one did or said anything particular to provoke this. I'm not bitter at all about the subject, I used to be, but now I just feel grateful.

I started Fertility Drugs last month because I was not ovulating. The Drugs did not work last month so they doubled my dose this month, and if the test results come back negative for ovulation this month the medication will be tripled. So the catch to this lovely medication is the side effects. I have two different medications I need to take, combined these are the side effects: Nausea, Vomiting, Mood Changes, Hot Flashes, Bloating, Dizziness, Short term Memory loss, Depression, and a few more. I really wouldn't mind all of these side effects if I really was pregnant, I would literally be throwing up with a smile on my face. But from the outside I can see why everyone might think I am pregnant. The fact that I'm ranting like this proves one of the effects of crazy hormonal mood swings!

Any who, I want you all to know that I am very positive about the future and I know I will get pregnant. So if you see me run full force to the bathroom right now it is just due to the lovely medicine that is helping me become pregnant. I know everyone in Primary is probably thinking something is up cause every Sunday morning I run out of sharing time to go barf. haha. I'm so glad for everyone's love and understanding. There are so many of you who have gone through this and I love your support and I love talking with you. I'm so grateful for this medicine, even though it makes me sick as a dog, it is giving me the chance to create life. Just a few decades back I wouldn't even have this chance.

So basically I'm writing this so if I ever seem moody, deranged, or just sick the next little while

please know that everything is fine and I am taking it with a smile!

Living in Luxury

2009-01-25T00:10:00.006-07:00

Last night I surprised Jake and took him to La Caille for dinner and then stayed there over night in the La Caille Cottage. We got an amazing deal because my friend Brandi works there. Let's just say we definitely couldn't have afforded it without her. Thank you so much Brandi!Don't we look happy?

Me enjoying my new favorite food: Escargo

Picture of my new favorite food: Escargo :-)

I spent the afternoon preparing our cottage for Jake. I decorated every inch of it! It took about 2 hours but it was well worth it.

La Caille was so nice; they gave us complementary food and wine. Too bad they wasted expensive alcohol on us since we don't drink. But I guess they can afford it. haha

Jane Eyre

2009-01-19T20:18:00.001-07:00

Two nights ago I finally finished Charlotte Bronte's 'Jane Eyre'. I enjoyed it so much! It took a while to get into the first couple hundred pages but then I just couldn't put it down! I really don't have the right words to describe how beautiful this story is. It is one of the best love stories ever told. Not only is it about love but it is about devotion, trust, endurance, patience, divine intervention, and basically all things that most people now a days don't respect anymore in a romance. If you are just sick of some of the media that is out there right now and you want to get swept away in a beautiful wholesome romance please read Jane Eyre. I promise you won't regret it!This is the book cover from the book that I read. It is all written in it's original 1847 state but has these crazy, Gothic/Victorian cartoon illustrations all through out it, by Dame Dary. If your going to buy Jane Eyre to read; this copy is awesome. I got it at Barnes and Noble.

Skinworks Professionals?

2009-01-12T21:46:00.005-07:00

For those of you that don't know I am, in addition to my day job, teaching night classes at the school that I graduated from in Esthetics. It is called, "Skinworks School of Advanced Skin Care".

For the past couple days we have been in an Instructor Master Education Class. We learned everything from how to prepare our students for the state-board tests, to making sure that there is laughter and fun in the classroom. I have evidence of the 'fun' part of the meeting:

Tonya (day instructor), Alicia (day instructor), Elizabeth (day/night instructor) and Me (night instructor)

Natalie (owner of Skinworks), Lindy (night instructor), and Rachel (day instructor)

I have only been working with Skinworks for a little while but I love it and I love everyone I work with. I know I will grow and learn so much from this amazing opportunity!

Girls Night Out at La Caille

2009-01-12T21:42:00.001-07:00

On Saturday I went to La Caille with some of my best friends. Brandi works there so she got us a great deal. The food was amazing. I actually ate Escargo and I loved it! I recommend it to everyone!Brandi, Me and Christine