What The Schmidt!

Sundance

2012-01-24T22:02:00.000-07:00

Friday night I had a girls night out at the infamous Sundance Film Festival up in Park City. We had an amazing dinner and good laughs. Now, I wasn't able to meet any celebs, but it was still quite an experience.

Update From A Mad Runner

2012-01-22T20:01:00.000-07:00

adjective

not conventional; not bound by or conforming to convention,rule, or precedent; free from conventionality: an unconventionalartist; an unconventional use of material.

This is the exact definition of my workout this week. It has been determined (not by anyone but myself) that just running is not quite doing it for me. The other definition I think I need is...

Insanity...

(I checked all the definitions of this word and it does not quite sound right to me, so I think it means)

1. doing the same thing and expecting different results

With my own made definition (I actually feel like I heard this definition on a TV show but can't quite remember which one, i.e. read Update from a Reality TV Lover) I CAN'T keep just running and doing some abs and expecting that I will get back to my high school self. So because if this REALIZATION I am going to stop focusing on making myself run, do a Nike Training workout or what ever I am planning and just doing something to burn the CALORIES I consume during the days.

Soooooo

This week was a mismatch of Nike Training workouts, other workouts on my Nike Training App, free form workouts on my own for toning to a very irregular cardio week including snowboarding, help moving a friend to even the old school stair running up and down the two steps of stairs in my house! Yep you heard me. Old school running stairs, it was like doing the seven minute drill back in pre-season basketball. (I know who will get this;) Also the hardest 3 minutes of my week, oh yeah and I said 3 minutes.

All in all I feel like I just need to stick to something to keep my (getting bigger) ass in gear. I do get bored with things easy so I think if I can keep it up I will be OK with my results. If not I will be rejoining a gym!

Infamous Stairs...again 3 minutes is all I could do (two sets of these damn things keep in mind!)

p.s. I bet you didn't think you would get a vocabulary lesson did you

Hmmm...

2012-01-16T09:10:00.001-07:00

I took a workout hiatus after Christmas and the new year. What we had guests, don't judge me. Running was tough last week so I quite running, just kidding but I only ran one day and not going to lie it was a little tough, 1.25 miles. So running was a no go last week but I did make sure to do my Nike Workouts. I was so excited to see they updated my app and they switched their 15 minute workouts around and I have new workouts to do.

My friend also gave me a Billy Blanks Favorite Moves TaeBo workout video for Christmas. I did that one day too and my elbows were sore from fake punching something. I think I should try to get B to do that workout with me...that way I can get an ab workout from laughing at him!

In other news I got my new ottoman I have been waiting for. The most excitement in my days now, getting new furniture. But I love it!!

If anyone has any workout or diet tips for me let me know...my great 20s metabolism is not as great anymore and I need to switch up something.

New workout DVD. Oh Billy

The chair I broke at Christmas...have a good laugh.

Happy New Year

2012-01-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I'm a day late here. But hope everyone had an amazing 2011 and I hope your 2012 will be even better!

So I guess I should have bit my tongue and made a note to have this last week be my lazy week. I'm glass I met a goal the week before Christmas because this last week I didn't run one day. No not at all! B's brother came to visit us for a week. He got in Sunday evening, we had a great Christmas meal and then I had Monday and Tuesday off to keep them entertained. We had a very active week, walking a lot downtown, malls and PC so that's what I am substituting my workouts with...shopping. And boy was I sore after! hehe.
I don't need to go into a lot of details of the week, a bunch of shoes, sweaters, food and to top it off with the Jazz season opener on Friday night! So much fun and plus they even won!!

So I'll get back to running for some of this week at least. We are going to Big Sky, MT to meet some friends to go snowboarding Thursday through Sunday.

2011-12-25T11:48:00.003-07:00

Merry Christmas from The Schmidts

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-12-25T11:47:00.001-07:00

One week until Christmas!! So excited and I hoped that this week would go by so fast....but I'm sure to no ones surprise it was so slow.
Monday: 2.5 miles .25 walk, OH YEAH. Started out strong. I figure whatever I run this week will be good. I'm giving myself a little break (it's my Christmas present to myself;). I also did my ab burner workout after.
Tuesday: No run. I managed to get to the store for some last minute gift buying and the wine store. Guess which one I liked more...it's a tough decision. I got home and B was here. He didn't go to the gym, surprise surprise, no really that is a HUGE surprise. I was begging (;) him to run with me. But in the end I decided not to run either. I did a little workout regimen that I found on pinterest.com, my new fun Web site. It was a plyo workout, abs, arms, jumping jacks and lots of that fun stuff. I also did some leg stretches too. The back of my knee is so sore from running on Monday.
Wednesday: 2 miles, no walk. I was so hungry and felt week so I ran and left!! I had to lower my speed just to make it to the 2 miles mark!
Thursday: 2.5 miles, I really pushed myself today and am so glad I did. Around 1.25 miles I was talking to myself and was going to do 1.5 miles, then started thinking of the rest of the week and how I won't have anytime to run on Friday. Then I talked myself into running 2 miles. Then I started doing the math (which isn't easy when you run) and thought that if I make it 2.5 miles I will only have to make it 2 miles on Saturday. Which I could do, or should be able to do.
Friday we had a Christmas Eve Party go to. So much fun to see some friends, have some cocktails and white elephant gift exchange.
Saturday: According to B it is Christmas! I was trying to tell him that Christmas was not until Sunday, but all day long B was bugging me about opening presents. I distracted him a little by heading to get coffee, had a quick trip to the grocery store and then Barnes and Noble. We got some lunch at the Wing Nutz and then hung out at home, cooked dinner and then opened presents. It was so fun to spend some time with B and me.Also Izzie loved opening her presents.
Sunday: We have B's brother and his girlfriend coming to SLC today. We got up early and I ran 2 miles. I ran a little slower but still got through it. Yay for me!! So excited to meet a goal on such a busy week. Now I just need to get the rest of our dinner ready early, then I just need to warm up the dinner again. Now time to enjoy some movies and "word with friends" with B, we are SO addicted!!

Izzie opening her presents

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-12-18T12:01:00.000-07:00

This week started out well how should I put it...HORRIBLE! I could barely run, my knees were killing me which made me not want to run at all, anyday, and I didn't care!
Monday: 2 miles walked .33 uphill. Even though I made it 2 miles, I barely made it 1.25 and hit a brick wall at 1.88. Holy, seriously sore knees! My knees are aching just thinking about this run. It was terrible. B came home and ran with me in our workout room and I had to leave before he was done. I didn't do anything else other than stretch and lay on my couch. .
Tuesday: NADA! Laziness mixed with my horrible run on Monday I didn't want to leave my bed let alone run! I am not sure I will make it much over the 5 miles this week. But I did make it out to a movie that night. I went to New Years Eve with a friend. It got terrible reviews, but I really like it. It's a chick flick what do you expect!
Wednesday: Of course tired and lazy again but I did make it to the treadmill and ran 2 miles .5 miles uphill. I ran .5 uphill for one mile and have been running a tish faster than normal. I also did an Ab burner workout on my Nike Fit and I didn't want to do a full arm workout so I did some push ups instead. Then I got stuck watching the trainwreck called Toddlers and Tiaras. It's not good...but I can't look away!! And the previews make me not want to miss it!
Thursday: 2 miles, oh yeah. I even made a 30 minute strenght work out and man my butt was sure feeling it on Friday morning. Felt like my skin was burning below my butt cheeks. A good burn.
Friday: Duh, day off. We had our office Christmas party, turkey dinner and half day of work....sign me up! B and I then got my new phone and then went to the new Sherlock Holmes movie. I love those movies, I even started reading volume one of his books! Robert Downey Jr is spot on!
Saturday: got up early, got our morning coffee and then clean the entire house! All before noon! Then I went and ran, I couldn't quite finish 3 miles. I only made it 2.5 miles. I got to about 1.6 miles and took a drink of water, then I got really light headed. I really tried to push myself, but I didn't want to get rug burns down my face from fainting. I think I need to eat something other than coffee before I work out!
So this week ended in 8.5 miles total. From how I started out on Monday I'll take it. Now we just need to get groceries for next week and then I'll start cooking Christmas dinner around Wednesday night. Luckily the meal I'm making can be made early and be refrigerated prior.

Pain in the Ass

2011-12-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

So I turned 27 and everything went downhill.
I think I just hit puberty, I have more zits now then I ever have, my butt is drooping and I'm getting saddlebags on my thighs. This is what spurred me into working out more, eating better and getting all these new face washes.
I did some leg, butt and thigh workouts while I was catching up on The Millionaire Matchmaker and now I can barely get up from my chair!

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-12-11T21:54:00.001-07:00

Monday: 2 miles. Ab Burner and Arm ripper. Arms arms arms! I have been neglecting my arms, although they felt like I was working them with how sore they were getting. Probably from the planks and push ups in the conditioning workouts I was sneaking in. I have not been focusing on my arm workouts though and I think it's showing, I noticed myself running with T-Rex arms and I was getting so tired around 1.5 mile but once I actually started using my arms I got a little energy back!
Tuesday: Yay for me. I actually woke up early (6 a.m.) and did a mile run so I am at an even 3 for the week. I am still debating if I want to run 8 miles total this week or bump it up to 9. I'll see how the rest of the week is going. I really want to run 3 miles Saturday, that's my main goal for the week. I'll do what I can until then. I recently became a Pinterest addict. I have been on that site for a while but now that I have a cookie extravaganza on Saturday to get ready for I was searching for some new recipes to try out. I also found some motivational pics and workout info. One was a quick morning workout of 50 jumping jacks, 20 crunches, 20 mountain climbers, 30 second plank and 10 burpees. I did that this morning as well. It worked well, but my arms are a little dead from last night and today! It's still going to be a good day!!
Wednesday: 1.5 miles. .25 walk, burned 200 calories on the treadmill (supposedly) I also did a Body Flexor 30 minute workout on my Nike Fit. So motivated gotta love it!
Thursday: Morning I did my 50 jumping jacks, 20 crunches, 20 mountain climbers 30 second plank and 10 burpees. I did it yesterday morning too. I need to think of something to call that so I don't have to type that out everytime (as I am going to try to do this every morning).
Friday: broke my rule again! I ran 1 mile this evening and walked .5 mile uphill. The an a burner workout.
Saturday: B and I woke up early, got coffee and ran to Target. We picked up some stocking stuffers and wasted time, who doesn't love wasting time at Target! I should say that I actually work up a little after 7 and was ready to run asap. But while I was on my way to the club house I spotted a gentlemen briskly walking to the door trying to beat me to it! That is the only negative of our clubhouse, there is only one treadmill, one elliptical and one stationary bike. Most people use the treadmill and if you don't get there you'll be stuck with the other two or have to wait. I always bug people to see how long they are going to be. Anywho, I'm proud of myself for at least trying to run right away, but I got there about noon and ran my 2.5 miles. I was TIRED! I really wish I was able to get in there right away in the a.m. but I made it through. I did some stretching and then B came home and we ran some more errands, did some xmas shopping and then went to our friends two year olds bday party! How fast he's grown! I can't believe it, it seems like she just had him and now he's two and they have a newborn! Such a beautiful family. I then went to a cookie exchange party, so good thing I worked it off before hand and skipped my dinner so I could stuff my face with sweets!! Delicious.
Today I took the day off. I was going to run a mile, but honestly I didn't want to and I don't care. I woke up early again and B and I laid in bed and watched a movie together. It was nice to just be lazy, but then we got it into gear. We got coffee, braved the mall and I got some stuff up to the thrift store, finally mailed a gift to a friend (I've had it in my house since March, yeah, finally right!) and got some more xmas gifts!! I feel like I kicked xmas ass this year, everything mailed, all gifts thought out and bought and I had my xmas cards done by the time I got my first in the mail I was ready to send mine out! I only have B left and I am only waiting because he is a snoop!!
Hope everyone else is having a great Holiday Season, it's hard to believe that Xmas is only a couple weeks away!

Post Office

2011-12-05T11:49:00.000-07:00

I just mailed my Christmas cards and a couple boxes of gifts to family. I think I spent the same amount on my gifts and cards as I did to send them to everyone! Holy Moly the post office is expensive!!

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-12-04T11:15:00.001-07:00

I started out strong this week, had a little setback on humpday and then picked it back up to make it over my goal of seven miles and completed EIGHT miles this week! (I had no idea that I went over the seven miles target. I thought I was losing my mind and had to add this together with B to make sure I was right! I also had to go to my last post to make sure I was on the right week)

Monday; A 1.75 miles run! .25 walked. I also used my Nike Fit app to get a butt buster and ab burner workout in.
Tuesday: I woke up with some sore, sore knees. I ran like Phoebe and was able to do a 1.25 mile run, so I have an even 3 under my belt. I did a Nike Fit 30 min conditioning workout to help tone up the buttocks.
Wednesday...laziness hits. Ran errands after work. Skyped with Heather and Cameron. I didn't want to do anything but finally got the energy to do my leg sculptor and ab burner workout with my Nike Fit.
Thursday: 2 mile run. Holla I'm back! Since I've been upping my miles I also need to up my stretching. Which I tried tonight
Friday: I broke my own rule...I worked out on a Friday. I did a mile. I left work a little early and was bored, B told me to run, which made me mad. But I did it anyways. I guess he does know what he's talking about. I ran and then ordered pizza. Good thing I was able to work it off before I indulged in some greasy food!
Saturday: 2 mile run and I'm done! Ab workout. B and I are (again) laying low again this weekend. I feel like I say that a lot. I guess it must be the perks (reason) of living away from family and in laws. We don't have a lot of obligations to meet and can do what we want, which at this point I am unsure if it is a pro or con.

So again today I woke up around 5 a.m. Izzie was cuddling with me and no B anywhere in sight. He must have fell asleep downstairs after playing video games. Izzie gets a little dazed and confused when B and I are not together in the same room. She always runs in between both of us. So I left the door open for her so she could relax a little and get to take turns laying by both of us. We have also noticed that Izzie is starting to finally turn from a pup to a dog. She is getting a little more lazy, likes to lay around. We've experienced her not being able to keep her big puppy dog eyes open during the days on Saturday and especially Sunday. It's adorable to see her eyes get heavier and heavier before she can't keep her head up anymore.

Top news!! We got some presents for under our tree! Christmas is really coming!

Foot in the mouth

2011-12-03T17:02:00.002-07:00

I do speak my mind. I don't want to be too blunt or ever rude, but with my close friends I do say what I think. Other times I have learned to keep my mouth shut.
Until 2 days ago.

It's not a good feeling!!

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-11-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

Well this week I started out strong. Of course I did though, what do you expect when Thanksgiving is at the end of the week!
Monday: 1.5 miles, walked .5 did ab and shoulder ripper workout. My running is not getting any better though. I think I got my running form from Phoebe...if you are familiar with Friends you understand what I am talking about. This year I'm thankful for no one being in our workout room when I am...I would get embarrassed for sure.
Tuesday: Another 1.5 miles. Whoo Hoo! I was only going to do 1 mile, but got the energy I guess (must be from my running form). Then went to girls movie night. Breaking Dawn Part 1. Terrible, Terrible movie. I have to admit I will watch Part 2, but I am not excited about it. I can not believe those people are paid actors and actresses!
Wednesday: After work I braved the grocery store to pick up a few things for dinner. I had all my Thanksgiving shopping done but then decided to make something new for dinner and needed a few ingredients. I survived. I then ran 1 mile and did a 30 minute workout on my Nike Fit while I caught up on my Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Got to love the drama! I also pulled my groin, not from running but from my high leg kicks (I was warming up, after my run, so strange). Guess I'll have to work on that one.
Thursday: Turkey Day! No workout! Yes. B and I went up to Snowbird Resort for my first day on the Mts. It was terrible. There is not a lot of snow yet, only two lifts open and the lines were crazy. There was only one way down the Mt. and I guess this is the best time to teach your youngest to ski because there was a million young kids on the slopes. But, after that rant, it was nice to get out to the Mt. We'll have to wait for more snow to fall to go again. I am sore as can be, in my neck, which is weird cause I don't remember falling.
Friday: My day off. No, not from work, from workouts. I did work that day, and B got up early and went Black Friday shopping with some friends. He braved the lines, got some great deals and had brunch all before I spoke to my first customer of the day. He also got me The Girl Who Played with Fire. I am so excited to start reading it! Another amazing part of this week, one of my best friends was in town for the holiday visiting her family! We were able to meet them for dinner and caught up on everything that has happened since their wedding in June.
Saturday: We slept in, B was still tired from shopping. I was up early, called my family. Watched The House Bunny did an arm workout and ab ripper on my Nike Fit. I also finished my running week with my 2 mile run! Holla I made it and walked .5 miles for a cool down. We laid low for the night and then B and I went out on a date night and then saw my friends again one last time before they flew out today.
I guess Sunday will be another day off for me. Not officially but this week for sure. B woke up with the flu and was in bed all day. I was able to decorate our house like crazy for Christmas and did some shopping.Found my xmas present to myself....Clueless! I also found about $100 worth of more decorations. In LOVE with our house and tree! I hope the weeks go by slow until Christmas so I can enjoy the decor.

Other big amazing news of the week....my big brother is engaged! So excited for him and his new fiance, Kari. Congrats to both of you! Love you millions and so excited to get another member of our family!

Update From a Mad Runner

2011-11-20T16:58:00.000-07:00

I don't know what's more pathetic, the fact that shopping at H&M gave me the motivation to get my run on or the fact that a year ago I was able to train and run a half marathon and now can barely get the motivation to run at all! H&M opened in SLC last Friday. The lines were out the door (obv) so I went on Sunday with a friend. We didn't have to wait in line too long (yes, there was still a line to get into the store) and we spent a while scouring the store, all sections, making sure we did not miss one article of clothing. I wore heels to shop in, it's been a while since I now work with limitations of how high my heels can be. I looked good but by Sunday night I was already feeling in my legs the downfall of my decision. How can i be so sore from shopping?! By Monday my back, neck legs..holy hell I was in pain and that's when I decided I better motivate myself to get back into shape!

Monday; I was ready to start off strong. I made it 1.5 miles did a .5 mile walk. Enjoyed Forgetting Sarah Marshall while I ran and busted it out in under a half an hour. Now why do I think running is such a pain in the ass when it is one of the fastest ways to get a workout in?
Tuesday; I was still ready to kick it into gear. I did another 1.5 miles, no walking, then did my Nike Fit arm definer workout and ab definer.
Wednesday; I am still SO sore from working out, shopping, running I don't know what. My arms were twitching all day at work. I decided to do my yogalates (yoga and Pilates) workout video. I have a few different workouts on it, abs, arms and lower body. Since my arms were in no shape to withstand another defining work out I decided to do the leg workout. I thought it would be nice to get a good stretch in, little did I know (remember) it was an actual workout for my lets. It definitely didn't help with my sore hamstrings, but I made it through.
Thursday; Day off. I was not feeling it and was also heading up to PC to visit a friend for dinner. I left after work and B had my car and I had his Jeep. Let me start this story by letting you know that we just had some work done to the Jeep. Here in the beautiful state of Utah you have to get your vehicle checked out to pass a safety and emission test. Let's just say B's Jeep passed after about $400 of work. The next week the check engine light came back on, we took it back to the place to get checked out, they say nothing was wrong. Light went off. Next week light came back on, I got it check and it was for the same thing we just spent the money on to repair. Light went off. I head up to PC, I'm accelerating up a Mt and all of a sudden the Jeep makes a noise and the light comes back on. In the meantime a semi is speeding up behind me and I am not able to move, the RPM's drop to 0 and I am down to about 40 MPH on a 65 MPH uphill climb. Luckily I veered over to an off ramp that THANK GOD was right there, called the friend I was meeting to explain why I'm late and then realize that I can not not stop. I finally found out the engine shut off on me. I got the Jeep stopped, parked and restarted the damn thing and pulled into a gas station and called the only person I thought could help me...my dad. The car was running fine, but I was so nervous to even think about driving down a canyon, at night, with the possibility of this car engine shutting off on me again and not having breaks! I finally calmed down, my friend got me to the restaurant by way of back roads and we had a great meal and caught up. We came to the determination that she would follow me down the canyon to make sure I made it home OK.
Friday; Rule I have, no workouts Friday.
Saturday; I only have 2 more miles to run for the week. I pushed myself, actually not that hard and made it the 2 miles, walked .5 miles and did some squats and arm curls. Hallelujah!
I spent the rest of my Saturday cleaning, getting coffee, shopping, finished cleaning, more shopping (which by the way, hello Xmas season, it's crazy out there) and then apps and games with friends.

Now Sunday, we had brunch with an old coworker who was in town and then football. Right now I have no motivation to do anything else, not even leave my room, but I might try to do a Nike Fit work out (right now I'm betting that doesn't happen, but please wish me luck!)
Up next.....I will try to run more that 5 miles in this next week.

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-11-14T11:01:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I am freakin lazy when it comes to working out, unless it is my credit card and I'm spending money on clothes....and only clothes.
So I finally found a new challenge for running that I think I can stick with. I got the idea from my good friend. I am going to start this week. I'm going to run 5 miles this week and that will be my goal and I am going to try to add miles on every week. I couldn't decide how many to add each week. only one mile is nothing and five miles is too many, so I decided I would just do what I felt and my goal is to do more than the week before.
Wish me luck and please post comments to keep me motivated!

Another lazy Sunday....

2011-11-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

What an amazing weekend.
Snow in the Mts, none on the Valley floor. Enjoyed some amazing Bad Ass coffee and even made a pot at home. B and I went grocery shopping on Friday and bought some new coffee creamers.
Did a butt buster workout on Saturday, still feeling the pain today. Was going to run tonight, but decided against it and made the typical NoDak Sunday dinner, meatloaf, veggies, stuffing and baked beans for my hunny. Then enjoyed the reality shows of Sunday night and now watching a movie...God I love HBO.
Highlight of my weekend. Doing my early Xmas shopping (for myself) at the new H&M store that opened here in SLC. There were lines to get into the store, but luckily being in Morman country on Sundays means the lines are going to be about 1/3 as long as they were yesterday. I found some amazing deals, sweaters, hats and stuff for my big Ben. I decided that mall shopping in general is not my thing anymore and will stick to the outdoor shops, but all in all it was a success!

New fur hat...gotta stay warm out there!

So I haven't been busy persay....

2011-11-06T14:33:00.001-07:00

but I have been quite lazy on keeping up on my blog.
Instead of writing a long blog (like the last one) I figured I would explain in minimal words and pics.
1. I tried new food the last few months. Sauerkraut (and I grew up around it!) and a Reuben sandwich. I loved them both.
2. I bought my spouse a large shelf for his Transformers (he is not 12, and yes it will be filled).
3. I am obsessed with "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo"! I don't want to put it down and NEED the next book ASAP.

Cameron didn't like his B-Day cupcakes!

Cameron, Mom and Cam: Day at Snowbird

Close up

Cameron with his Auntie and Uncle

B and I at Snowbird, this area is now covered in snow

Sisters

Birthday Pic

Ashley, Cyn and I at my surprise B-Day party

Toast to Denver!

Este's Park

An Elk, he was tanning in the sun

My favorite part of the trip, tour of Stanley Hotel!

B, me and an orb.

"Race you to the top!"

"We landed on the Moon!"

Sean White and the Black Swan

Mandy and I

Pretty Ladies

The Redfield's Downtown Denver

B and Me downtown

Thanks for the great trip!!

100th Post

2011-10-09T11:41:00.000-06:00

I just noticed that this will be my 100th post on my blog, about 2 years running I believe. I definitely could do more on this but with all my TV shows I keep up on this is what you get.

My sister, brother in law and amazing nephew came to visit a couple weeks ago. Unlike last time Heather visited us in the greater SLC area, the weather was nice this time around! We were able to have dinner their first night with Heather's long time friend who lives in the area.

Sunday morning I had made my famous egg bake (well famous to Ben and myself) and a stop at the real famous Bad Ass coffee and up to PC we were. We hit up the last day of the Park Silly Market. It was beautiful weather and we had a great lunch at the Wasatch Brewery. I definitely recommend the Pumpkin Ale. The rest of the afternoon we spent at the Tanger Outlets, another famous spot, for a little retail therapy. I was able to get Cameron his first Nike shoes! That night we spent in and I made dinner for us and we threw an early birthday party for Cameron as he turns 1 on October 21. We got a few pictures of him with his makeshift cake/cupcakes and gifts, then we tried to have him smash the "cake". Cameron was not feeling the mudcake cupcakes, I do not know if he will fit in with the Bjugstad family, we all LOVE mudcake! He definitely liked unwrapping his gift though, some new pj's and socks (again he'll have to grow into them).

Monday we stopped as Bad Ass again and then up to Snowbird to take a ride up the mountain on the tram. It was beautiful views and Cameron loved the ride up and down! We were so lucky for such a beautiful day.

The next stops were to check out the Visitors Center at the University of Utah so Heather and Jason (mostly Heather) could check out where the Olympic Torch was in 2002. They had pictures and a day by day event write up we were able to read. We then headed over to the Olympic Oval to check out the gift shop which was closed the last time Heather was here to visit. We were also able to watch some of the short track relay practice as it was going on.

Tuesday morning the Giesen clan left, and we were back to our normal schedule.

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-09-12T13:12:00.000-06:00

Running, working out or any sort of activity does not come by me easy these last few months. I think the last time I really worked out was before my Vegas trip, and only because I was in a swimsuit for the majority of my time there!

But this last week I have noticed that B and my new diet of fish and chicken is not so good for me, I have a big fat belly. Now I know that it is not from the actual fish or chicken, but the carbs that I scarf down with them as well as not doing enough cardio. So instead of hitting the treadmill, I sulked and went out to eat with my girlfriends (pasta no less).

But enough sorrow for me. I have been able to run FOUR whole days last week. I know what you're thinking, but I have only been running about 1 1/2 or so each time. Hopefully it will help. I did have a customer ask me multiple times if I am a trainer, while I'm at work (and no I don't work at a gym) so this is keeping my hopes up.

But in other news, football started this week! I am not the biggest fan, but we did have a good Saturday of watching the games and drinking beer. I made it through 1 game and 2 beers. Then a nap...it was a good Saturday.

I found this on a blog and think everyone should read it

2011-09-05T19:21:00.003-06:00

Written by a 90 year old - Regina Brett from Cleveland, Ohio
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most requested column I've ever written."

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is ONLY up to you.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important sex organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words 'In five years, will this matter?'
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
36. Growing old beats the alternative --> dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood.
38. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
42. The best is yet to come...
43. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
44. Yield.
45. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift."

Slogans

2011-09-05T15:13:00.000-06:00

My last slogan for Sunday's was "No Shower Sunday Funday". But as we all know I am now no longer a "fun" person. So I have deemed my new slogan "Bad Movie Sunday". I sure did a number yesterday and we ended the day with "Piranha" !

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-09-04T14:38:00.000-06:00

So...it's been a while. Let me update you on what has been going on.

After the last post and my freakout of ants, we have not seen a live ant in our house since. We have seen some dead ones on the floor. I'm not quite sure how they got there. B seems to think they just fall out of the wall. I guess ants fall sideways. B said it's cause they don't weigh a thing. Must have missed that in physics.

Two weeks ago Saturday was my 27th birthday. B threw me a HUGE surprise party on Friday. I emphasize HUGE because I didn't know about it... at all. If you don't know B, he can not keep a secret. And with that big event he pulled off I am so surprise I had no idea. It was amazing. We had a blast and I am so thankful for all the friends that were able to come to celebrate with me. I felt so blessed.

The Sunday after I had to go to a training in Cleveland OH for the week for work. It was a good time, we learned a lot and I met some great people in class.

B and I have been laying low since I got back. Last weekend it was so hot out. I don't remember what we did, but I think it existed with us laying in our house in the air conditioning, movies and again in our house. Work has been really busy, and the beginning of the week was really hot and it finally cooled off a bit. Thursday was the start of many college football games. We were able to watch the UND game and the UTAH game at a bar. Both pulled out a big W!

So, with the last few weeks I have neglected my workouts. I am happy to report that I did workout one night when I was in Cleveland. That is honestly a first! I usually don't even pack tennis shoes because I never do anything anyway and then don't feel bad about it. But I did take my shoes with me this last time and actually wore them (even if it was only once).

So not much new...but here is my favorite picture of my nephew!

Ants In Your Pants!!

2011-08-14T19:48:00.000-06:00

Ants. They are the only thing I can not stand. I think these little creatures are the most disgusting, nasty little monsters.

Yesterday while Izzie and I were hanging around at home, she was enjoying a bone on her bed when she decided to join me on the couch. I noticed Izzie had something in her little beard. Upon closer inspection I saw it was a little ant. I had to hold her down to get it out, and barely was able to do so as it was so gross! When Ben got home a few hours later I noticed there was another little ant crawling up on the wall by our stairs. I lost it and Ben told me to calm down. I was searching high and low over by our patio door and Izzie's bed looking for these little parasites. We didn't see anything so I chalked it up to being drug in with Izzie from the morning.

Then today I noticed these freaking ants in Izzie's little beards again! More than yesterday. Luckily Ben was home and was able to help and picked them out. It took two of us to hold her down! I lost it and of course made Ben search high and low for these ants that had to be in our house. Low and behold there were hundreds of them coming from the wall in our kitchen being drawn in by Izzie's dog food. They had taken over her entire bowl and the rest of the wall! I completely lost it at this point. I attacked all of them with the Raid I had left over from when we were in our rental house and they all immediately froze death, as they should. Ben clean up the corpses, I swept and we then sprayed the entire kitchen down with the Ant Killing Spray I had.
At this time, no more ants....please pray with me to make sure they don't come back!

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-08-10T20:38:00.000-06:00

Well...this post will be short. I ran only one night last week. I took Monday off I suppose because it was hot out, I don't remember. I have all my days mixed up from traveling last Wednesday to Minneapolis. We headed out east for a wedding and then time to visit my baby nephew.
We flew standby both ways. We finally got on the third flight from SLC. I almost made it on the second, we were going to split up, but then the owner of the seat came walking up at the last minute. If only she knew how close she was to losing her seat. It worked out very well though as B and I got on the same flight and B's friend picked us up after work. We went out to a great patio restaurant, had a full strength beer and were able to catch up.
Thursday we went to the Vikings Training camp to watch the seven on seven practice. Now, I can't say I know alot about football, but it was so exciting to watch the practice camp and be there to experience that. They had concessions, games and jump jumps for kids! It was amazing!
We were able to hang out with B's friends the rest of Friday and Saturday. Then Sunday we were able to meet up with Heather and Cameron at the MOA to do some shopping, lunching and Caribou! B and I were able to get some great Minnesota gear, Twins shirts and Gophers shorts.
B and I babysat Cameron on Monday afternoon. But before than B got a great surprise and Jason and Heather took us to Pizza Ranch, B's favorite! All you can eat Taco pizza! B was in heaven.
Cameron and I had such a great time playing, he didn't even want to take a nap even though I could barely keep my eyes open! Tuesday Heather only works in the morning so we were able to hang out in the afternoon. We ate at the mexican place, shopped at Bargin Betty's, got some New Prague Trojans gear and then drove to Caribou and Target.
We left this morning. B and I got to the airport ready for the first flight, 7 a.m. At the last minutes we were able to get on the flight, thankfully some people missed a connection and there were open seats for us! So lucky!

So, not much working out this last week but B decided to go on a diet, chicken and rice. I'll try it out with him, for a bit, although I don't think that I can cut out certain foods of course, chocolate and mac and cheese.

I did get a lot of reading in. I finished the prequels to SATC novels, The Carrie Diary's and Summer and The City. I borrowed a friends book, One Day and finished that on my trip. I was not sure what the book was about, but I loved it. It describes the friendship of a man and woman who met on their college graduation and the trials and tribulations over the span of 20 years. It was very good, although the book was written in London and I don't like reading their accents. That and the chapters were very long. I took a couple other books with, the first two books of The Hunger Games trilogies. I started The Hunger Games and am over half done already. I could not put it down! I took a nap after we came home today and I was dreaming about it!

Training Camp

Just chillin with the players, no big deal

7 on 7

Huddle

Ben with his buddy

Wedding Party

Beautiful Bride

Showing off our new Twins gear

Cameron is a little ham for his auntie!

So is his mom

Cameron's not so happy with his mom's photos

Family walk time

Pirate loves Ben

Cameron loves watching him momma run!

Update From a Mad Runner

2011-08-01T11:57:00.000-06:00

"Have you ever heard of Idgie Threadgoode?"

I can officially say I worked out last week. I ran THREE days. Cwazy I know.

Monday and Wednesday I was able to pull myself away from the DVR to get out and run 1.5 miles. Monday it was hot out but I still made it outside...actually I had to because the treadmill and elliptical were in use by the lazies that live in my complex. (No, I do not group myself in with the lazies). It was hot out but I found a nice route that feels like the Liberty Part route, except for the industrial buildings and traffic opposed to trees and no vehicles. I also had to walk the last half of the block because of a side ache.

Wednesday was like heaven, I was able to use the clubhouse treadmill, and even better the TV was working! For the past two months I was emailing our HOA company to get the TV channels working again. They kept telling me that they found a local cable company that would do it for free but there would only be 30 or so channels. I always informed them that I don't care if there is two channels, but it is not working. So it was either myself or another smart ass that lives there, but they finally went back to Direct TV and it works! I ran my 1.5 miles in peace and "Say Yes To The Dress".

Both days I did push ups and abs after, while watching reality TV of course. My Nike workout's have been pushed to the back burner as now I am too lazy after running to do a full 15 minutes of abs, arms or legs. Typical.

Friday I was going to do a run or at least a work out when I got home, but it was hot, humid and I just didn't feel like doing a damn thing. I put on shorts, watched TV and cooked dinner. Then hit up a night run to Target for some goodies and a baby shower gift for a friend.

Saturday was the big day. I slept in, took Izzie out and found no one in the workout room again and was able to run in peace. I got there right when "Fried Green Tomato's" started and by the time the first commercial came around I was also in 1.5 miles and made my way to 2 miles. I had a nice chat with another lady working out about how wonderful that movie is and even made it through a Nike Work out when I got back to my place. I must have done enough workouts on it to make them think I'm bored or something (I usually only do 1 of 5 out of about 30+ workouts, so no, I'm not bored) because there was a link to unlock a new workout named after one of the USA Woman's Soccer players. it intrigued me and I unlocked it only to be running in place and doing to taps on the floor for 15 minutes. Hey, I'm not much of a soccer fan, but that gave me a huge side ache!

Sunday I shopped.....enough said.

"Find a guy you don't want to let go of....or a girl if you're into that weird stuff"

2011-07-26T22:44:00.000-06:00

I just wanted to make a quick note about how much I am OBSESSED with reading blogs. Seriously I can not get enough. Blogs, Twitter and getting emails like it's old school messenger are my vices. If you have any great blogs, Web sites, tweets you follow please, please let me know so I can start following them too!!

Soooo....that's all I wanted to say, and don't forget to check out my sister, Heather's, new Web site. She is an amazing and talented Chiropractor in the Minneapolis area. She also has a great blog she updates with amazing info.

Ok, have a great day....and check out "Friends with Benefits" and you will get it.

(I just saw that movie for the second time, you're welcome Justin Timberlake!)

NO Update From A Mad Runner

2011-07-25T11:42:00.001-06:00

I didn't run this week. But before you judge me I was in MT working for the last week (technically Tuesday and Wednesday) and traveling late at night and early in the morning, plus I'm just that lazy. What!

Quick recap of my mini work vacay. I went to Red Lodge, MT to help out with estimates on hail damages as they had a storm a few weeks ago. I don't think I can really call it a vacation as I was working the whole time and didn't have any energy to enjoy Red Lodge. It is such a beautiful town, I like to this of it as a redneck Park City!
Red Lodge has a great Main road with tons of cute shops (that are affordable) and awesome bars/restaurants and cafes (also, affordable). Apparently there is an amazing scenic drive from Red Lodge that the locals could NOT believe I didn't do. But after working Monday, traveling until 1 A.M. and getting only 5 hours of sleep, I was in bed right after I ate on Tuesday night and Wednesday night I was back in Billings to catch a 6 A.M. flight. I also missed the motorcycle rally Red Lodge had the weekend before my trip, everyone was talking about it. Sounded amazing.

But this week I'll try to pick up the workouts, I am getting a dumpy double butt so there is my motivation! Plus I am stocked up on DVR'd shows so my Nike Workouts should pick up as I have lots of Reality TV to watch!

Airport breakfast....my Favorite Caribou!!

My other fav...Bloody Mary, I determined Montana makes the best Bloody Mary's.

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-07-17T12:39:00.000-06:00

"Put Your Name On IT!"

This week was a lot of firsts for me. Concerts, hikes, games and farmers market. Along with that it is the first time I've ran three miles and added a little something new to my workout.

All week I have been putting off running, actually working out in general. I did a couple of my Nike Fit workouts while I caught up on the reality TV shows. Wednesday I went to Deer Valley Mountain Resort to their Mountain Town Music Concert series with some friends. We didn't hear the concert much as we were catching up over a couple glasses of wine, but it was still amazing...and beats running!
Thursday we met up again to head to another concert. This time it was in SLC at a bar, inside on a beautiful night. We watched a group called Dope MC and I was in shock. These guys sang 90s music ranging from Run DMC to NKOTB to Steve Tyler! I don't kid.

B and I decided we wanted to do something this weekend, so up at 7:30 on a Saturday to do a hike and all I wanted was a coffee and a City Weekly and then the Farmers Market. I have heard so much about it and never been. I decided this week was it, B was going to take me. But we had to do something active first. I have determined, I also do not like hiking. I like walking on trails, that are mostly flat and I can carry my coffee instead of a water bottle. But up to the mountains I feel like I am an overweight old person who can't even walk straight with out tripping over everything. Seriously, everything. I trip over rocks, groves in the ground and air. I think I tripped on air. No joke. We didn't make it too far up before B was sick of me and we left, thankfully found a cafe so I could get my morning coffee and then headed to the farmers market.

We had fun, didn't get anything, but checked out some amazing art work, cute dogs and some honest bums.

Later that night we went to the Blaze indoor football game. Again something new and we realized this is where all the redneck Grizzlie fans are on the off season. They get more hurt and take more unknown breaks that women's soccer players. (oh, yes I know that the USA Women's World Cup final is on, no I won't watch, currently we are watching Universal Solider, of course B's pick). But all in all The Blaze game was worth the $8 ticket prices and $4 beers (any beer $4!). The entertainment in watching the crazed fans reminded me of hockey season and how I am excited that I can see the same people all year long now!

But, back to the reason we all read this blog, my hatred for running and working out. Maybe hatred is a strong word, maybe detestation, displeasure, grudge, horror or loathing would be better. I will seriously do anything to avoid a work out (mainly running as I now figured out how to watch TV with my other workouts). I got up, started laundry, packed, swept, complained to Izzie about the stinky garbage and even goes as far as shaving my dog before I worked up the energy to go for a 30 minute run. Seriously how ridiculous is that. I wasted over two and a half hours doing other crap before I went out for a run. And in turn it makes it hotter out, which is another reason I dislike running outside, but for some reason our treadmill in the clubhouse is always busy! (and I do call those people lazy, but know that I deserve to use the indoor treadmill in the AC but they should run outside).

I decided that I should try something new in lieu of listening to music while running. I Googled some top pod casts (wasted 15 more minutes) to subscribe to so I can listen to them instead of music. I found a few, one I've heard about, Couch to 5K, a Zumba one and a couple other work out fitness pod casts but then came across Jay Mohr's Mohr Stories. And put your name on it, my run went by so fast. I got a nice ab workout in as well from laughing but I think it was worth it. I got my three miler down. You know, I haven't signed up for this 6k yet, so I was thinking as I was running I might actually just be running for the hell of it. Now if that doesn't make me a real runner I don't know what does.

I am proud of my self, I ran out side, on the sidewalk and kept at an even pace and enjoyed my Mohr Stories. I am happy to report I am a little excited to run again to continue with the pod cast. Of course that will be next Sunday.

Izzie's New Look

Summa Summa Summa Time

2011-07-16T13:26:00.000-06:00

Brighton Resort

Update From A Mad Runner

2011-07-09T17:19:00.001-06:00

"That's All She Wrote"

This song is the epitome of my workout this week. Not only did I not want to get up in the morning I didn't want to run, make dinner, in fact even leave my house! It must be all the running around we have been up to the past few weeks. I guess it's a good thing that my dream job which would require traveling to exotic areas did not pan out. I now have the luxury of being 5-7 minutes to my office. Oh yeah. You know that means I get up about 45 minutes to when I need to be at work.

In other news, I did leave my house (I am not a hermit after all!).
I made it 2 miles one day. I forget which one, although I am quite sure it was not Tuesday or Thursday or Friday...leaves Wednesday. Yeah, it was Wednesday. Did I mention how out of it I have been?
Now, not only did I make it 2 miles, I made it two miles OUTSIDE! Oh yeah, steppin up in my runs. I did have sore legs for the first time since last September.

Friday night I got home from work the same time B made it back from Transformer's 3, it was the third time he's seen it. Yes I married a seven year old. I won't even go into the action figures he has. Now back to after work, B rented five movies and we made it through three. Saturday after B's bike ride we finished the rest of them. Probably the best weekend since ND!!

That afternoon B went to the gym I peeled myself away from Clueless on the oxygen network and made it outside again (you know me too well, someone was already on the treadmill in the clubhouse). It felt like NoDak again, it was super humid out! Well humid and I was ready to get home. I thought for sure I would make it three miles but about a mile in I was ready to head home. I did take the Garmin and was able to know how far I made it, 2.37 miles in 23:11 minutes. So far my best.

I remembered why I stopped running (outside) in the first place. Not only are you super duper sweaty after, but the sidewalks are terrible and people ALWAYS honk, wave and yell out their windows! And to top it off I got splashed by a car, I was tired and slow and by the time I got my hand up to tell them thanks it was directed to a different car of elders, sorry about that!
I think I might need to take it to the parks again.

So if you check out the lyrics, two miles was "all she wrote" for me this week. And I guess I'll take it.

While I'm writing this I am back to Clueless and am mortified that I no longer have my Clueless CD soundtrack. If anyone has a copy, please (seriously please) let me borrow it!

Update From a Mad Runner

2011-07-04T09:27:00.000-06:00

Ok, I am writing this while laying in bed debating if I should get up and workout or just be lazy.
Well I'm being lazy. It's what I'm good at!
So this week I did make it the two miles I needed too, nothing more nothing less. It felt good until about two days later when I realized I didn't stretch after the run and leg workout I did after (over achiever I KNOW). And after my run I realize something very important, I am only running 6 miles, after I run 3(which I should be doing right now but instead am laying in bed, it is cloudy out after all) I am already halfway there and according to my half marathon training guide I only had to make 10 miles to run 13, so really after four I should be set! Plus it's mostly an obstical course so how the hell do you train for that anyways!

Sorry for the boring post, I had a good one planned but when I didn't run again it isn't relevant anymore.

I will let you kow of an amazing discovery I found. Start watching "The Real Housewives of New Jersey" and then go to the bravotv.com web site and read Jay Mohr's blog recapping the episode, it's the best part to my Mondays.

Happy 4th of July to my amazing readers, ahem family, and be safe!

LOL

2011-07-01T11:38:00.000-06:00

The funniest thing to me is when someone drives down the road with their gas tank door open, the fuel plug hanging out, a pop, bag, ipod, etc on the roof of their car. I always point it out to Ben and laugh forever (ok really about 30 seconds). It brightens my day.
So what did I do yesterday, drove down the road with a clipboard on the roof of my vehicle...a work vehicle non the less. (I am seriously laughing so hard while I'm writing this)
Oh, it fell off, everything separately. First the laminated paper in it flew off. About a block later and one left turn the actual clipboard fell off. How it stayed on that long is beyond me. I watched the car behind me swerve around it and about died laughing.
I had to email Ben right away to tell him about it.

Ok, well here are some other things I just found online and think are terrific!
This is a blog making fun of girls posing for pictures. It's not updated daily, but you can read through it. It is quite enjoyable, maybe because I do this.
Another video blog or vlog I found is this one. The first video I watched was "How to trick people into thinking you're good looking". It's hilarious...and she has so many more.
Enjoy!!

(LATE) Update From A Mad Runner

2011-06-28T20:05:00.000-06:00

SO....Like I mentioned last time I am going to run in a Dirty 10K in August with a friend so I better start running soon.
Last week I made it close to 2 miles two different times last week. Woo Hoo right.
Not really, I actually started out doing a 5 K loop on the treadmill and walked about 1.25 miles and then ran the rest. Holla I made it!
Tuesday I decided I better make an effort and ran 1.75 miles.
I know I know, I couldn't even make a 2 miler and last year I was doing (easy) 5 milers. Sheesh how things change. But you do have to start somewhere right?
I have found something I can do it's the Nike workout's on our IPad that are 30-45 minutes or so and I can do it while I watch TV (DVR actually so I get my breathers when I fast forward through the commercials).

Anyways, this week I will try to get up to 2 miles (the motivational comments can start now).
Ben and I just got back from a trip to Vegas last night and I am beat, no workout for me tonight. of course we are also going to the "Transformers 3" movie tonight because B is a psycho about that show and we have to go opening night, which by the way is 12:01 a.m. Yes I am going to take a nap, and yes I will get popcorn.
Well short and sweet, just like my runs.
Here are a couple pictures of our June activities.

Catch This!!

2011-06-21T17:44:00.000-06:00

Ok, again it has been a while. I was on a roll there for a bit but we have been out of town for a week and of course you know I have been spending the rest of my time catching up with the "Real Housewives" and blogs!
B and I went home to a friends beautiful and amazing wedding. It was such a great time and was wonderful to see all our friends and of course family!
We are heading to Vegas this weekend...it is the summer of trips for B and me. Actually we only have one left in August and then Halloween. But we still have done a lot and have been able to see people. Finally we can enjoy summer and some time off!

Well, I guess you may get the reading pleasure of "Update from a Mad Runner" again as I agreed to a 10K Mud Run. It's definitely not the training regiment that the dreaded 1/2 took, but still, it's a regiment I have to get on. Ugh, I'm already dreading the training! I made it a whole mile and a half the other day. Woo Hoo!

Money Matters

2011-06-01T14:13:00.000-06:00

Ok, so again with my favorite Web site, The Nest. (I just love it, it has so many topics and advice on it!) I just ran across an article "How to Survive on One Salary" . No, I didn't lose my job, nor did Ben, but it started to make me think about how Ben and I need to start a budget and stick with it.
Now I want your advice. Give me ideas to start a budge, how to's and ideas you have for me.
P.S. the easier the better. I lose interest, especially when shopping. Not a good trait.

Spring (Summer?) Cleaning

2011-05-30T14:37:00.000-06:00

I am surprisingly a neat freak. If you ask my mom she would disagree. But ever since I got my own apartment after I graduated college, I have been keeping my homes/apts/condo's clean. Maybe it's all the moving I have done (although if this were true, Heather, you should be down to a weeks worth of cloths and a toothbrush (she's moved A LOT)) or maybe it was when Ryan told me I no longer needed to keep my dresser in my closet, that I am now a grown up and can have a grown up room. Either way, I have been quite the neat freak. Ben and I both do our fair share around the house. Ben likes to stack things and organize while I actually clean up. It makes for a neat home.
Another thing I have picked up since gettin' hitched is The Nest Web site. Check it out, they have many ideas for homeowners, saving money, what to buy and my personal favorite recipes!

Here are a couple tips/ideas I have picked up on storage for your closet from The Nest...which we all need to work on! (myself included)

Drawer storage. Use inserts in your drawer. It's great for accessories and belts.
Hangers. Find hangers that keep your cloths from falling off. Huggable hangers is an option. Personally, I like to overlap cloths, ie, my cardigans, button up shirts, pants and dress onto hangers to help save space and hang more cloths.
Fold your laundry. I know if sounds SO SO boring! But it makes you cloths more organized!Surprising I know. I can honestly say mine only stay folded for about 5 minutes, until I need something again, and of course if on the bottom of the pile. But by using the flip fold laundry folder you can easily get your laundry folding done
Use the space you don't see. Utilize unused space by putting seasonal cloths under your bed, in a closet, or wherever works best for you. To assist with that, use space bags. Vacuum seal the cloths to save space and it will also protect them.
Clean up your shoe area. I have to overlap my shoes on my closet floor to make sure I have enough room. I also make sure to keep them in order of type and style of shoe. Another option is a drop front shoe box. They are clear and you can stack them to save more room and keep it neat.
Use bins for your towels/sheet/you name it. You can find these cloth bins at Ikea. Put them in a closet or even out in the open. If they are in the bins you won't feel like it is messy.
Get a laundry basket. Silly I know but keep your cloths in the same space to keep your floor clean! Get a fun hamper, cloth basket or wicker (my favorite) to make sure you get something you like and matches your decor.
Neat, neat neat, are these acrylic storage shelf dividers. You can find them here and they will be my next purchase!! You can attach them to the shelf to make sure your cloths don't overlap/fall over/mix up piles of cloths like mine always are!

Here you go, depending on the type of hamper you want, under $100 you can organize your room(s).
Good luck and let me know how it goes for you!

Update from a Reality TV Lover!!

2011-05-20T18:35:00.000-06:00

Yay! New idea found!
Ok, on The Real Housewives of New Jersey Season 3 episode on Monday they introduced the new characters which are Teresa's sister in law and cousin. This made for an amazing first episode as it was hilarious and a little depressing to see how they do not get along. It was Teresa's brother's child, Joseph's, christening and those Italians really like to drink because before you know it there was a brawl between Teresa and her brother Joe and Teresa's husband Joe! ( I know, seriously can they not think of any other names!) Although it made for great TV and I had to rewatch the fight about three times to catch it all, it was so sad.
And there you have it, the highlight of my life. Next week, and update on VH1's "Mob Wives".

Ok, so no I won't write about reality TV, but I just wanted to let you know how amazing it is! haha.

So, what I can update you on is how to keep from becoming a pack rate, or even worse, a hoarder!!
I am the queen of throwing, giving, donating and selling things. Alright so mostly my cloths, but it is because I don't keep too much other stuff around. I will give you my tips on how to get rid of things you are not using.
1. First decide why you have it in the first place.
What is the purpose for the item, gift, for yourself or decoration. If it's a gift...give it to them!! You may think that of course I will, but I do have a housewarming gift myself I have been waiting 2 months to mail. I'll do it tomorrow.
Is it for yourself? Then either use it or lose it. It's that easy. Decide if this is something you are going to use/wear/etc, if you haven't in over 6 months and it isn't a seasonal item, then get rid of it. If you haven't used it or worn it in that long you never will. Seriously you won't.
Decorations are different than any other item. I always find myself buying new decorative things at Big Lots and all the cheap stores to redesign my rooms. I always make sure that I rotate my decorations with them. Its really easy and not a big space taker for me. Not to mention you can change up your house decor easily. Ok I guess I make this easy because my furniture is very basic and I make sure to buy just fillers that go with my frames and furniture. But in doing this I was able to get a new bedspread set and matched it to my guest room so I can use the same sheets throughout our room and the guest room.
2. How to get yourself to get rid of things.
Most people I know do not have the nerve to throw things. It is really simple. When I was younger I was super concerned with keeping everything. I wanted to keep all the little trinkets that my friends gave me, all my $1 purchases when I was younger and basically anything that was given to me. This went on until I started getting my own place and realized how terrible it was to move and pack that crap! Easily enough I was able to make the decision to throw it away.
First I informed people to not get me crap on their vacations. I don't want it. The trade off for you thinking of me when your in Mexico laying on the beach will never be enough for me to truly enjoy that Carlos and Charlie t-shirt. Tell them to save their money and spend it on themselves.
Second, I take that advice for myself. I will enjoy my trips enough with out spending half my travel money on that crap, so I don't buy trinkets on vacations. Ok, that's a lie. I have bought cloths, but the last time I did that and had to buy another bag to get it all home, I learned my lesson.
Third, goes back to the sentimental stuff. Why does it have a meaning or feeling to you? Is the shirt from a concert you met your future husband at? If not get rid of it. Seriously, you have memories you can look back on you don't need an items to trigger them, they just take up space. That's harsh, but unless you use it or put it toward something useful, like making a t-shirt blanket (they are cool) or something else equally creative, you don't need that item to make your memories last. I know that it is hard. I was hard for me at first, but when I realized everything just sat in tubs or boxes buried in the closet, it was easy to give them away. Also I usually give things to a good will so someone else can use it. It's better than throwing away and makes me feel like I did something good. That and giving a bum a dollar.
If this is a hard step, just whittle you way down on these items. Start by getting rid of some of it and save some. Put it in a place that you forget about it and when you come across it a year later you will realize that you don't need it and you can get rid of the rest. I had to do this with Ben and his t-shirt collection, it was hard, and a lot of yelling (me) and tears (Ben) but we were able to knock it out by at least half. (this is probably the reason our closet shelf was falling off the wall come to think of it)

If you have any questions just let me know. And if you need my help personally...I only charge a flight for a visit;)

These two totes hold my seasonal decorations and my junk I can't get rid of, which includes my wedding shoes for some reason. (and yes I keep my purses in my pantry)

Our storage location in our garage. Some holiday decorations, camping stuff and mostly empty boxes. Again weird, but I want them.

And I will also do some research for helpful hints by professionals too. I am extreme I realize, but remember...."If you don't use it, you lose it"

ps. I know I don't have kids or a lot of hobbies which things are needed for. But I still think my rules apply.

I'm negligent

2011-05-10T14:01:00.000-06:00

Although I love to read blogs I have thoroughly neglected my own.
It's not that I don't enjoy updating everyone (again mostly Heather and possibly an aunt;) on my activities, it's just that I am a generally boring human being. When I am not working (right there a boring topic) you can usually find me on my couch catching up on my DVR. There, that right there is a topic I love and can talk about, how much I love our DVR! I am completely 100% addicted to every reality TV show on Bravo, VH1 and the Oxygen Network. Literally...it is borderline a disorder. Now after saying that I can officially say that this year there will not be an" Update from a Mad Runner". Not only have I learned I really am a mad runner and completely dislike running except for the results (ahem, hot bod), I can only do a workout now when I am in front of my TV. I actually start my DVR and do a Nike workout right in my living room as the only thing that motivates me to get through my work day is my excitement to get home to watch my hour long, drama filled entertainment. This is the excitement of my life.
What can I tell you, I am officially lame. I never thought it would happen, but here I am 26 and stuck in a rut! I do need some motivation this summer. What would you like to hear me write about?
Let me know what exciting hobby you want me to try out, test, eat, cook, transform or get creative with. This does exclude of course anything that would require me to 1. jump out of an airplane 2. be around disgusting creatures 3. eat disgusting creatures but not limited to 1. shopping 2. shoes 3. chocolate. They are my favorite and possibly get me motivated.
Hope you have a great day and (Heather and Lori) let me know what you think!!

2011-04-24T15:43:00.000-06:00

happy happy Easter everyone!

2011-04-16T10:09:00.000-06:00

My family still lives in North Dakota. It is known for its heavy winters and warm springs which unfortunately brings on flooding in the area. Here is a letter from my Mom. Please keep them in your prayers.

For the 3rd time they have upped the crest. We are now
predicted at what it was in 2009. The river is starting to
rise quicker - better than a foot a day.

The contractors are back for the 3rd time to add to the
dikes - working 24 hours (started Fri). The river above us
had their first crest on Wed/Thurs so that means that
Mon/Tues we can expect our first one. Then in a week the
second one.

The bridge by the firehall (the one that was closed in 2009
for the wedding) was closed on Thurs for preparations -
planning ahead.

We had 6-8 inches of very wet snow on Fri - didn't really
need the moisture - haven't heard how much moisture they
figure. BUT - I watch the tornado's down south and I still
feel lucky.

I am working at packing up the basement as we did in 2009 -
mostly in case of sewer back up than anything. Ryan is to
come in on Sun and we will haul things out. I don't really
like this kind of spring house cleaning - but it gets done!!!

We haven't heard of any sewer problems as of yet - just cut
back.

As I look out the patio window I see a lot of confused
Robins hopping around on the snow trying to find food.

Besides at work making preparations in case we have to move
out. Makes a person think = I have a headache.

Prayers are still appreciated.

Snow Snow go away come again some other day!!

2011-03-07T21:48:00.000-07:00

We've had some amazing weather lately. Serious I was looking forward to the Spring and even to start running outside again, but low and behold there is snow all over the road!
Seriously Spring, where are you!!

Sunday Skype Session with Heather and Cameron

2011-03-03T13:52:00.000-07:00

Cameron loves his auntie!!!

It's been forever...

2011-02-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

Wow...it's been a while since I posted on here.
Not too much has happened with us. We have been busy with work and with the winter of course we've been spending the rest of out time at the mountain. Ben and I have started a new work schedule through June. We are working Saturday, Monday and Tuesday. The rest of the week is open to us as long as we have our work caught up. We have usually been heading to the office for a few hours either Wednesday or Thursday and trying to go snowboarding the other days. We usually hang out and run errands on Friday.
Other than that, not too much is new. We have been slowly making our house a home and it is fun to get it decorated, it makes it so much more cozy in here!
My friend Michelle drove through Salt Lake a few weeks ago and we were able to visit with her for a day. Then Ben's friends came down to ski and snowboard for a few days that same week. It was such a great time and they just missed a huge snowstorm that started the day after they left.
Ben's dad is coming to visit next week, hopefully we find enough stuff to do to keep them occupied and enjoy their time here! It's stressful to have visitors! I'll just have Ben find stuff to do.
Well....I guess that's all for now.

Here is a couple pictures of Izzie's new haircut!

Happy Happy New Year

2011-01-02T10:49:00.000-07:00

Wow...2011 already.
I'm ready for a new start.

Ben and I area starting a new work schedule for the next 6 months. We will be working Saturdays, Mondays and Tuesdays. I hope it works out OK for everyone.We are a little nervous about giving up our Saturdays, but we will have to see how nice it will be for the rest of the week.

We had a little get together on Friday night. It was fun to be with some friends and take it (a little) easy.

Wishing you all a Very Happy New Year

The perfect winter coat

2010-12-29T19:57:00.001-07:00

http://www.examiner.com/women-s-style-in-salt-lake-city/the-perfect-winter-coat

what did you all do for Christmas....

2010-12-27T20:11:00.000-07:00

What?! Christmas was this weekend?!
Um...I know how you feel, it was just another weekend to me! Where are my long holiday weekends??!! (you know I checked it, of course, next year Sunday, the year after Tuesday, damn you Leap Year!)
Well, now that can say you learned something, I'll let you know how great my weekend was!

Jason and Steph got here early on Friday morning. Jason and Ben hit the slopes as Steph and I got some food started and ran out to do my xmas shopping. Yes, I did say xmas shopping. Why did you wait until the last day, you ask. Well I live on the edge. That or I am lazy.

Most likely the later.

After buying Ben a movie he owns, we headed home, watched "Marley and Me", cried, napped and started our apps.

Ben and Jason were back soon after and we were able to eat our amazing Christmas Eve meal! It was delish. We went southern this year with ribs, homemade mac and cheese and some great green bean casserole. Which started the conversation "why do we only eat green bean casserole at holidays?" and to this we determine, "it is silly, there is no reason." We then ran out and bought up the grocery store in French's onions.

Present time! Wow, do we feel loved this year! Thanks so much for all the Christmas presents, we seriously opened presents for a couple hours!

As for the Second Annual Triple S Christmas we decided to head up to Solitude and hit the slopes. We did some shredding, met Santa and had some Pabst. Couldn't have asked for a better day.

Well....here are some pictures from the weekend. Enjoy!

Merry Christmas.....

2010-12-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

Love, Steph, Switzer and the Schmidt's

well hellloooo stranger...

2010-12-22T22:32:00.000-07:00

I know, I know it's been a while. I'm sure I've been missed.
Actually... hey Heather. How's the family? I know you're the only person who reads my blog (and I know this when you text me to tell me to update my blog again, and why wouldn't I wait two more weeks after that, well...Merry Christmas sister!).
Luckily I waited as our last month has been pretty lame to say the least and didn't have much to update on anyway.
The best part of course was our visit to MN to see my beautiful new nephew! How amazing it is to meet a new family member and I now think I am this much close to know what unconditional love it. Seeing someone so small and knowing you get to be a part of there life forever is so rewarding. I honestly have never felt homesick since we moved to Utah, but going home was so hard after that visit and I now wish I lived closer to family. I miss you guys!
After that mini trip, which was our family Christmas, B and I have been saving money (like usual) and snowboarding. Um...is that a conundrum? Well as long as you are asking yes, (and yes, I made sure that was used correctly). Of course I am spending money snowboarding, but no I am not shopping for anything else. No, seriously not at all! No new cloths since October. So hard! Seriously, just to tied me over, I went to a store, picked out multiple cloths and walked around the store before I put them away and left empty handed. I don't know what is more pathetic, doing that or missing shopping so bad I actually did that.
Well, thanks for letting me vent.
We are now ready for Christmas Eve doing our traditional (2nd year) Triple S (Switzer, Steph and the Schmidt's) Christmas Eve dinner and Ski Christmas Day. I am excited for my southern style Christmas dinner, ribs, homemade mac and cheese and green beans.
Merry Christmas to everyone (again, Heather and Family) and hope to see you next year!!

Day After Thanksgiving Blahs

2010-11-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

So here I am at my work computer, already counting down the minutes to 6p.m....it's not even 11 a.m. yet.
Good thing I brought a book to work and my iPod, and then decided to check out my blog and I realized I hadn't written a blog post for soooo long!
Thanksgiving was great. To be honest, I was more excited about having a day off of work more than I was for the actual holiday of food.
We hit up the mountains for the first time (for me anyways, Ben went a couple weeks ago when they opened). It was fun....and very cold. It's nice that Ben and I can do some things together. We headed to our friends house after to eat some AMAZING food! We had such a great time.
We are laying low this weekend as no money in our pockets. I know I know, it's so sad that I can't take advantage of all these deals, but we are done x-mas shopping and need to save up money for all our car troubles! We had to get a new car for me (well, mine was breaking down so we decided it was time to get a new vehicle) and now Ben's Jeep is having some problems. Not fun!
Don't feel sorry for us. Next week is looking up!
We are picking out our xmas card photos! I am so excited to see how they turned out!

Baby Cameron Micheal

New Car

First mountain day

On Friday, we are going to Minneapolis, MN to visit my new baby nephew! I am so excited to finally meet him in person. He has grown up so much since he was born.

Hello Stranger

2010-10-24T15:19:00.000-06:00

Been a little busy since I stopped running...

B's grandma came down to visit us a few weeks ago. We did a lot of shopping, Ikea, Park City and did I mention shopping;) We had a great time and so did B's grandma. It was so nice to have family visit and makes us feel so blessed.

I have been in Ohio working for the last few weeks helping out.
It has been long and I am ready to go home. B is ready for me to come back too and so is Izzie. B says she is running around a little crazy with out me there. We think that she doesn't know what is going on when one of us are gone.

Big news though... I am now Auntie Leslie!
My sister had a little baby boy!
Cameron Michael Giesen born October 21, 2010 at 4:18 a.m. After a long labor Heather and Jason welcomed their little bundle of joy into the world. I couldn't be more happy for them all.

Cameron Michael 6 lbs 14 oz

20 in long

lots of dark hair thanks to his mommy!

We need to get Cameron a new hat, good thing Christmas is around the corner!!

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-09-26T19:22:00.000-06:00

Well I'm done. And I was so tired I couldn't find time write this blog! haha.
B, Jenn, Jason, Carter, Izzie and myself made the trek to Cedar City, UT on Friday night. Cedar City is a few hours south of SLC and is more in the desert area of UT. It was a beautiful drive. We got checked into the hotel about 9ish, got some treats for the night and then hit the hay.
Jenn and I went to get our packets about 5:45 a.m. on Saturday morning. It was not very organized in the morning, it was still dark out and the people handing out our packets could barely see the names on the bags. They also "didn't get" the medium or extra-large shirts for the runners, which was very strange.
We then got onto our bus to take us 11 miles up the Cedar City Canyon. It was like the beginning of a scary movie, a bus full of strangers heading up a dark scary winding road. At the end of it, they had about 3 little bonfires to help keep people warm. It was SO cold up there that early. I am so glad I had B grab my sweatpants before we left SLC. They had all people put any belongings we didn't need into our bags with our names on it to pick up at the finish line.
By the time we started, a little after 7, the sun had just started coming up, but it was still freezing!
I had read online how pretty this run was so I made sure to bring my little camera for pictures and also wanted to make sure to enjoy the scenery. They had a mile marker every mile down, which helped me realize how slow I was running! I didn't have any goals for this run, except to finish it, but I was only a couple miles down and was so far on my song list so I decided it was time to speed things up, I mean I was going downhill.
Everything was great. At about 6 miles down the hill flattened out a little and had some little rollers the rest of the way down. Also it was in the sun more. I was able to finally take my long sleeve shirt off!
The last three miles were all in town and I knew these would be the toughest. With the first 10 miles going mostly downhill running through town up and down little slopes and with the flat areas was so tiring. I didn't stop at any of the last water stations because I really didn't think I would be able to start running again!
I finally finished at about 2 hours and 10 minutes! Yay! I was hoping to be right around 2 hours so I was very excited with this time. Jenn also finished within her goal so I would say this was a very successful 1/2 marathon!

I think I am going to take a couple weeks off before I run again!

Here are some pictures of the run....sorry they are blurry, I was running when I took most of them.

at the start line, just barely warming up!

Still the beginning

I realized here at about mile 3 how much further I had to go

This is around miles 6-8

Mile 10! I was ready to be done!

Finished it! Holla!

B and Carter! Carter loves him!

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-09-16T16:06:00.000-06:00

This is it!!
Saturday is the day, my first half marathon. I think my friend found a great one for us to do for the first (and possibly last) one that I do. It seems to be a mild down hill run through a gorgeous canyon in Southern Utah. I have only been in Southern Utah for a 5k a couple years ago and it was beautiful! I am excited for this, 1. for a weekend away and 2. to be done training, hehe.

Since I have been slacking on training the last month or so, I really kicked it into gear last week. I ran my 10 mile run on Friday before I went to Minneapolis for the weekend. It went relatively well, I used one of my GU's to test one.

I spent Saturday through Tuesday afternoon in Minneapolis with my pregnant sister! It was so good to finally see her before she has her baby. I am so excited to be an aunt! We also need to get our skype set up so I can see the baby as much as possible!

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-09-06T19:36:00.000-06:00

"Our greatest battles are that with our own minds.” Jameson Frank

This is 100% true for me and my training.
My last post did nothing to help motivate me to get back into training mode! Only a few short weeks and the big half is here.
This week started out very slow and non-productive. I didn't do a workout Monday-Wednesday. I mean NO WORKOUT. NOTHING! "What is wrong with you" you say, I guess I like a challenge;)
I decided that I would make sure and run Thursday, Saturday and Monday, and that I did. I have realized why I am getting so burned out, and I have decided that it is from running during the week. Yes, I will find a reason as to why I am lazy and of course it's not because I found a GREAT deal on something and NEED to go and buy is ASAP or that a glass of wine is calling me name after work. Not the reason.
A 4.5 mile run started out my big kick in the a** that I need to make sure I can make it through this marathon. I went to liberty park to run, this alone is a huge motivator as why would I ever drive somewhere and then not do what was the only reason I went there to do. That's like driving to the gym and changing and then decided to just go home (and yes I have done this...sadly multiple time) To my utter surprise the only thing that was different from this run that before is my lungs hurt. Only the first lap, so be it.
Saturday B and I decided to make the most of our Labor day 3 day weekend, we laid around all day. Finally I got my but off the couch, went to Sugarhouse park and made it through 6 miles right before the sun went down. Fall is really coming quick.
Monday, another semi lazy day, except I exercised my credit card and hit up some labor day sales, took Izzie to the dog park and then went on my run before Bachelor Pad. Nine miles today and happy to say "I'm Back". Yep, made it the whole time. Went back to Sugarhouse park and ran around it. This park has helped more I think because it has a couple small hills 2 up 2 down. Just little rollers but has helped me keep my pace and not as boring as running on the flat roads and Liberty.
For the rest of the week I am planning on doing a couple miles Wednesday, arms and leg workouts and then another long run on Friday before I leave for my Mini Trip to Minneapolis to my sister's baby shower! So excited to see her pregnant belly for the first time!

Izzie after the dog park so happy and tired.

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-08-29T19:58:00.000-06:00

Training has come to a halt!
Last week was not a great training week for the half, and not good timing as it is coming up!
I think going back to work in the office may be part of it. My rotation position is over and I'm back to my little cubicle. Morning work outs are out of the question and after work I was not feeling the runs.
This weekend I was able to get a little longer run in but not where I should be at, I'll try to pull it out this week!

B and I had a very relaxing weekend. Movies, movies, football and movies.
Friday night our newlywed friends had a housewarming party. They purchased a beautiful home and have been painting and decorating and showed it off on Friday. They have done such a beautiful job on it, it makes me motivated to decorate our place!
We slept in both Saturday and Sunday, watched movies and hung out! How ~~boring~~ awesome! I do not want to go to work tomorrow!!
We also hit up a football game on Saturday night. A high school football game, it was so much fun! We were there until midnight and it was so nice out. We'll have to do that again for sure!

Blogs full of Clogs!!

2010-08-24T16:19:00.000-06:00

Wow. Are clogs really going to be in the fall line up! I can not even believe this, I had the best clogs back in high school, they were black and fur lined and wedge bottom, totally hip and comfortable back then in the cold winters of ND.
Hearing this trend a few months back I was unsure of what to think. But after reading this blog I am SO tempted to get a pair. It's crazy to see how many trends are similar to the 90's clothes. Flowers, jumpers and now clogs...what's next CK jean bibs! (I would be lining up to get a pair;)

Update From a Mad Runner

2010-08-23T19:59:00.000-06:00

Uh Oh!!

Only 4 weekends until the big 1/2 marathon!!
My training has hit a wall. I make it through my weekly workouts and then the weekend comes.... and my energy/ambition is no where to be found. I'm not too concerned at this point. I felt find on the longest run I made (yes, it was my eight mile run and yes it was almost 3 weeks ago).

Well, I can take into account that it will be down hill and the atmosphere will give me energy;)

On another note!! Friday was my birthday we had a great dinner with great friends! I am so thankful for everyone who thought of me! Saturday, B and I were lazy (well mostly I was) and possibly a minor headache. Oops! But I did want to make it feel like I was 22 again.

Sunday Funday. We went tubing again! This time it wasn't as calm. B and I flipped are tubes about 10 TIMES! Three and a half hours later and a lot of bruises, we ended up in SLC and had a great dinner.

I am looking forward to a relaxing week, getting back into my workout routines and working for the weekend! Summer is almost over and we are going to take advantage of it!!

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-08-15T20:40:00.000-06:00

Last week was an uneventful workout week for me. I made it through my leg workout on Monday, my 5 mile run on Tuesday and was able to discourage myself from doing my 3 mile run on Wednesday. I was out in the sun and wind all day and felt I was "owed" a night off. Thursday B took the day off and when I got home after work I was able to again talk myself out of my 5 mile run. We had plans to meet up with some friends that night. They weren't able to go, so B and I went out for an early meal by ourselves. It was so nice out, and still early, and we didn't feel like going home yet. We took a stroll around Sugarhouse Park. We watched the geese and ducks in the pond and had some laughs. Friday, again, no workout for me. I used the excuse again how much I deserved a night off.
Since it was our anniversary this weekend, we got a hotel up in Park City for Saturday night to hang out and do something different. We got up and got a quick breakfast at our favorite breakfast spot...Einstein Bagels. Oh how long it has been. We then did a workout together, how fun, packed and dropped Izzie off at our very nice friends house to play with their little dogs and up we went. We hit up the outlet mall, found some amazing deals and headed to our hotel to do some swimming. After our laps, we got ready, went to the hotel bar and then downtown PC for an amazing dinner. We went to Prime Steakhouse, which was recommended to me by a co-worker, and had the best steak of my life (sorry dad!). They had an amazing deal going on, by one entree get one free. It worked out good for B and I. We were at a little romantic table and were able to have some time to ourselves before heading out on the town. We went to a few bars to enjoy the night life, music and talked with a guy we met out that went to the same college as us.
Sunday we went for breakfast and then back to Main Street to check out some more stores. They also had their Park Silly Sunday Market going on and Farmers Market. We check both out and had a blast. We found the cutest painting of a dog that looks just like Izzie. So when we got back to the valley we got a frame to hang it in our house, by far the best thing we found the whole weekend.

It is getting close to the Half. My training schedule ends 2 weeks before the race. I am planning on running the same distance during the week but may increase some of the weekend distances. Wish me luck to keep it up!!

2010-08-15T20:22:00.000-06:00

Success in marriage depends on being
able, when you get over being in love,
to really love...You never know anyone
until you marry them.
Eleanor Roosevelt

I found this poem in a bride book B's mom gave me last year during a bridal shower. I read through this book every once in a while, it has cute stories about brides, wedding traditions, poems and recipes. I came across this quote and it fits so well with where we are at right now in our marriage. B and I had a nice conversation during our anniversary dinner last night. I love how much we have grown as a couple, how we are able to talk about everything and how helpful we have both become for one another. One thing I have really noticed, any why this quote means so much, is how much I have become to know about myself since B and I have been married. being with him and seeing how he handles everything that I do makes me understand myself better and I can't thank anyone more that my amazing husband! Thank you Ben for all you do, being you and always loving me. I feel so blessed for every day since we met. Happy Anniversary!

Invite to LivingSocial

2010-08-12T17:36:00.000-06:00

Hey! Check out this great Website I found for daily deals in your area!!

Invite to LivingSocial

2010-08-10T15:57:00.000-06:00

4 More Days

Bloggin!

2010-08-09T09:26:00.000-06:00

So I have been at this for about a year. Blogging has become a great hobby and I am learning a lot! I have been trying to keep my blog up to date with the Schmidt's life and also have found some amazing blogs to follow. It has become part of my web browsing schedule! I check my email, people.com/usmagazine.com (you know, update on the news;) and then my blog!

My new favorite blogs are style blogs. Learning how to use your current wardrobe and what you can do with it. Check out Kendi's blog for some great style inspiration and try her 30 for 30 challenge, where she takes 30 pieces of clothing, shirts, skirts, dresses, shorts, pants and shoes, she mixes them up for 30 days. It's amazing how many outfits you can make. Oh and you can't shop during the challenge...at all! It helps you use your creative side keeps you from spending that hard earned moola!

Since we bought our home, I have been trying to save money and haven't been shopping as much as I did last year this time. Also, I went through my cloths before we moved and realized how much stuff I buy and wear once or twice and get rid of! It's so frustrating! I am planning on going on a few shopping binges and then try this challenge out myself!

Another blog I love, and got me started on this new interest, is this blog. She takes ideas from all of my beloved websites and creates the look with cloths you can find in stores we shop in. It's another great way to use your creative side to make your cloths go from ordinary to extraordinary.

Of course, I also love reading blogs of my friends and family, so let me know if you have a blog I can follow!!

Update From a Mad Runner

2010-08-08T20:13:00.001-06:00

I did it!!

I made it past the two week hump I was having in my running.
After last weeks debacle (not even close to finishing my 7 miler) I was not pumped for this week. Monday I made it through my leg workout. One positive I have noticed is the strength I have when I run. I can tell my legs are stronger and I realized how much the leg workout has helped me. Tuesday was another 4.5 mile run and another hot day. Of course I didn't make it up in the A.M. to get my run in and had to go after work. It was BRUTAL! I had the Garmin on to help me out and took off ready to take on the run. I had a good 2 mile run and then hit a wall and got a bloody nose. Yep a bloody nose from running! WOW, unsure why that happened but I just wanted to get home and lay down after that. Wednesday was a 3 mile run is my shortest run of the week. Using this Garmin instead of G-Map has made my runs longer. I think that sometimes with using any map website it doesn't get the miles down exactly right.....very close, but if it is off even a little bit and you are hot and tired, boy do you notice. Thursday, another 4.5 mile run. I didn't want to do it, I tried to find a reason (any reason) not to do it! I sucked it up and went to the club house to use the tread mill. Anytime I have to use the treadmill I feel like I am using it as a cop out and not really working on my time and runs. But on the contrary, it ended up being a great decision. I think it helped me realize I can't do a Prefontaine and try to bust out my miles, but learn to pace myself. The treadmill definitely helped me do this and brought my confidence back up a little bit.
Sunday oh Sunday, the day I dread all week. I had an 8 mile run calling my name. I tried to get up in the morning, but the second B asked me to lay down with him longer, I didn't put up much of a fight. We went and got our morning coffee and ran a few errands and then we up to a little cafe in the canyon for brunch with friends. It was such a fun and beautiful morning. The wait was long, but it was completely worth it! B and I then went to a mall, got my jewelry cleaned, a little shopping out of my system and then back home to rest!! We watched some TV then B drug me down to the clubhouse to get our workouts in. I decided that if I felt like I couldn't quite make the 8 miles, I would at least work for 7 since I didn't make it the week before. But with the help of Bethany Getting Married and Mean Girls, I made it the whole run, and learned that the treadmill only works for an hour and after that you have to start it over again. Completely annoying! Good thing I looked down and realized before my distance disappeared and knew the miles I had ran so I could start the machine over again. YAY, so happy with myself, and it made me feel better to realize that I only have 5 short miles longer to make a 1/2 marathon distance;)

On another note;

Friday night B and I had an early supper (for us) and then headed to our friends pool to hang out. It was a semi nice night out and we had some good laughs watching Jersey Shore before we left to go home to hit the hay. B had a bike ride early Saturday morning. He rode in the Ulcer Bike ride, a 111 mile bike ride around Utah Lake. He finished it in 5:25:00, 106 miles. Apparently they had to shorten the ride because of some rode construction. I was so happy for him, the furthest distance he rode so far and has improved extremely since getting the road bike. He is starting to ride it more during the week which I think has really helped and has some great friends that he can ride with and learn from. I am so happy that B has found a fun hobby that he loves!

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-08-02T11:39:00.001-06:00

Last week in July has come and gone. It seems like the summer just started.
This week of running did not go to great. I only ran Tuesday and Thursday, 4.5 miles both times. It was so warm during the day, I waited until later in the night to go for my runs. We got a new toy, a Garmin, which is AMAZING! It has satellites and maps the distance you run, the time and you can hook it up to a Web site and it will show you the calories you burned! Tuesday after my run, we went up to PC to visit some relatives who were in the area for a Softball tournament. Wednesday I was out in the sun working all day the only thing that sounded good was a glass of wine with dinner. I think I deserved a night off. I think it helped with my run on Thursday, it felt good.
Friday, B and I went out to eat with my good friend Jennifer for her birthday and cake after! It was so good to see them again, Happy Birthday Jen!
Saturday, B got up early and went for a long bike ride with some friends. When he was done we got ready to go tubing down the Weber river with some friends I haven't seen for a while. It was so much fun and I think B and I found a new fun way to relax on the weekend! We hit up a home cooked Mexican Restaurant in a small town near by. We spent the rest of the night relaxing and watching movies. Sunday, same thing. Being a bum. I spent the day watching ANTM a cycle I haven't seen. I didn't make it out to do my run on Sunday. I have today off so I got up early and headed to Liberty Park to do my long run. I didn't quite make it the entire distance, I kept getting stomach cramps that I couldn't get to go away.
I have been keeping up with the weights with P90X and mixing up some of the other workouts when I have the energy. I can tell with my running, the leg lifts I have been doing are helping with my runs.
Now it is August, my favorite month of the year. We have our first anniversary coming up, my birthday and next month I'll be heading to Minneapolis for my sister's baby shower!

View Photos from Pioneer Day 5k & 10k

2010-07-29T18:01:00.000-06:00

View Photos from Pioneer Day 5k & 10k

action shot from the 5k!

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-07-25T14:52:00.000-06:00

Pioneers, 5K and fireworks, Oh My!

What a week! No air conditioning from Sunday night to Wednesday morning and it was a horrible few nights.
.Monday. Leg workout. I took advantage of the clubhouse and the air conditioning. It was a great workout and I was able to do pull ups! I also found a new pair of tennis shoes and broke them in that night.
.Tuesday. 4 mile run. I was able to get up in the morning and do my run. It was amazing, beautiful morning and I think my new tennis shoes helped get me into a good pace.
.Wednesday. 2 miles. Again, I got up early and pushed myself to run this as fast as I could. I finished in 16 minutes, in time to meet up with the air conditioning repair man. He informed us our air conditioning froze over and was blocking all the air coming out! Luckily he was able to get it unfroze before we went to work that morning. It was great to come home that night to a cool house!!
.Thursday. Another 4 mile run. I was not able to get up in the morning and was so tired after work, so I decided to run in the clubhouse that night. I only did a couple miles and laid low the rest of the night.
.Friday. Rest! Not going to do anything! B and I went out for dinner on the patio at Red Rock, it was amazing. We beat the crowd and were home in time to watch a movie and still able to get to bed at a normal time.
.Saturday. 5K day! I found a 5K to do in Provo, UT. Since it was the UT holiday Pioneer Day, there were a couple of races to chose from, but this was the only one that had a 5K race. So, B and I got up early, got a cup of coffee and headed down to Provo. It was a great morning, cool and no wind. This is the first time in over 3 years I ran a road race by myself. The first experience I had was not good, so I was a little nervous. But, B was with me and he helped me keep my cool. I found the location, got my packet and had time to hang out with B before my run. I started out at the end of the pack, I think that this helps with the competitive side of me and pushes me to catch up to people. The run felt great and had some mile markers with supportive words on it to keep me going. Also, they had a surprise about mile 2.5, a man in a kilt playing the bagpipe! It was a hilarious and random site. But after him a nice straight stretch to the finish line. I finished strong and B told me I finished about 28 minutes (my goal was 30). I was happy. We hung out, had some of the breakfast, and I ran into another runner I knew who had just finished the 10K and was waiting for his wife to finish. I wanted to wait and see what the winning time for my age group was. I found the time sheets and I placed 7th in my age group with a time of 27:12! I was so happy! B and I headed back to SLC, stopped at our friends new home (which is amazing!) and then placed a little tennis before we relaxed for the rest of the day.
That night, there was fireworks galore all over town. We were able to watch them from our front porch.
.Sunday. Rest for me. B went for a long bike ride with a friend. Now time for a relaxing rest of our weekend.

Home Cookin Goodness

2010-07-20T18:37:00.000-06:00

Since I have been working on my kitchen skills I thought I would share a great family recipe (and B's new favorite meal;) with everyone:

Homemade Pizza

Bread Dough (there are frozen loafs or you can get frozen biscuit dough too)
1 can of cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup (the celery soup is a little sweeter)
1 can of tomato soup
1 package of taco seasoning
1 pound of ground meat/ground turkey
cheese
any additional toppings

.raise bread dough (cover it in butter, cover and let raise. will work if you set it out in the a.m.)
.brown meat
.mix together soups for sauce
.spread out dough cover in sauce, sprinkle taco seasoning over. put meat on top with cheese and additional toppings.
.bake at 350 for 30 minutes.

*my mom has been making this for years, a traditional family dinner with a little homemade twist, which will stay with us forever. Thanks Mom!!
** you can use a homemade crust recipe as well, I've done it once and it turned out great! A little thicker crust.
***I made this last week and used chicken and skipped the taco sauce and used pepper jack cheese for flavoring. turned out great!

Pictures from the 4th in NoDak

2010-07-19T21:45:00.000-06:00

Fireworks on the Bay

4th of July

My girlies!!

Ben and his grandma

Update From a Mad Runner

2010-07-18T11:13:00.000-06:00

"on to the next one"

This was my running motto this week. Again I was exhausted this whole week and with some bad workout judgment on my end, it was so hard to finish my workouts. It seemed every time I was in trouble, Jay-Z's "On To The Next One" came on and gave me the motivation to finish.
Monday. Legs and back. Quick workout after a long day of work.
Tuesday. 4 mile run and P90X Cardio workout. It was a hot day and again I didn't get up in the A.M. to do my run . I got ready and was going to head over to the clubhouse when I saw that B didn't put the key back, so instead I did the Cardio workout and THEN decided to run. Not my best idea. I noticed my lungs are in better shape, but my legs were dead during the run.
Wednesday. 2 mile run and Arms. I DID IT. I got up in the A.M. and did my run. I tried to run it a little faster since the short miles and it felt good. I got my arms done after work in plenty of time to watch the season finale of "The Hills". So sad. haha
Thursday. 4 Miles and yoga. I did my yoga workout right after work thinking that it would help me warm up for my run. Again, not a good idea. I was tired and only made it just over 2 miles. Since the week was so terrible, I was tired and it was hot, I didn't let this get to me. I just went inside and stretched. Then enjoyed some ice cream.
Friday. Is a rest day. I usually do the P90X Core synergistics workout this day, but decided against it. I think that my body was telling me I needed a rest.
Saturday. B and I are back on our normal weekend schedule, and it feels good! We got up and went for coffee (we go to a new one every weekend, and think we topped our last favorite this week!), then decided to try a new sport...tennis. We headed to the local Sports Authority and got some rackets, balls and a TON of other stuff we thought we needed. It was a successful trip. We headed out to the courts with a friend who plays and taught me how to swing correctly. It was so much fun. B and I found another new sport to do together!
Sunday. 6 mile run. I decided that on my long Sunday runs I would go to a different location instead of starting at our house. My friends were telling me about Liberty Park. It is home of walkers, runners, bikers, rollerbladers, an aviary, swing sets, tennis courts and the occasional Laire fights. It also had a 1 1/2 mile loop around it that is covered partially my trees and blocked from wind. I decided to try it out and was the best decision I made this whole week for my workouts. It was a beautiful morning and with all the other active people out, it made it feel like my own personal race and gave me the motivation to push myself. I don't know if it was the elderly people running or the woman pushing a stroller and running with her dog, but I finished the run in under an hour! Thank you Liberty Park!
This week was a crazy week, not only for my workouts, but work. The weather was hot, our air conditioner started making some weird noise and seems to have not worked quite as well this week. But this Sunday run really brought my spirits back up.

5 weeks down, 9 to go.

2010-07-15T14:19:00.000-06:00

Summer's finally here and I have been so tired these last two weeks I can barely enjoy it! SO DEPRESSING!
I can't get up in the A.M. to do anything and after work all I want to do it bum around on the couch and watch Bravo TV, ha.
If anyone has any ideas to get me back to normal I will take them!! Or if you have any fun things to do during the summer...I am game;)

Update From A Mad Runner

2010-07-11T21:20:00.001-06:00

Week 4 has come and gone and boy, this week was a KILLER! B and I got home Monday evening and then headed up to PC to pick up Izzie, got food and headed home. No workout for me and it was a much needed rest. I was BEAT this whole week from the running around we have been doing during the month of June. I was absolutely ready to hang out at home this week!
Tuesday. 3.5 mile run, my first workout since my long Saturday run in Mandan. I didn't get up early to run, so had to do it after work. It was SO SO hot out on Tuesday night and I wanted to stay away from the traffic, so I decided to use the treadmill. Bad Idea. I only made it 2.5 miles. I was so tired, I couldn't get into rhythm and had no breath. I was upset, but I'm sure most of it was from the past weekend, so I just headed home and did a good cool down and stretching.
Wednesday. Again, no morning run. It was hot again out so I decided to either wait or run later on the treadmill. I did my arm workout first, and since it had cooled off enough out, I took it to the pavement. It was initially a 2.5 mile run day, but since I did that on Tuesday I ran 3.5. It went a lot better and realized that part of my horrible run the night before could have been because I was running inside. It seems easier when you run outside because you HAVE to run back. I decided that I should just make sure I do my runs outside instead.
Thursday. Another 3.5 mile run. No morning run", "I need to relax", "traffic" or my new favorite, Bravo TV. Surprisinly, I decided to skip the outside run and went to the treadmill again! HA, but I made the full run, with "The Housewives of New York" keeping me company.
Friday, rest day. I even skipped the P90X workout. B and I went and got some great movies and had a wonderfully relaxing night of movies and junk food. We also took a drive up Big Cottonwood Canyon. It was so beautiful! What a great way to end the work week.
Saturday B got me up early to go to a bike ride he was doing. It was his first canyon road bike experience and he did such a good job! After, we both did the P90X Kenpo workout together. WOW, it was so hilarious to watch B do the workout I hardly made it through I was laughing so hard! The rest of the day we spent relaxing and later our newly married friends came over for some drinks and catching up. They also had a busy last month with a Wedding (yay!) a new home and then a honeymoon! It was great to catch up!
Sunday. The big one. 5 miles. B and I slept in, I then cooked our morning breakfast (I haven't been able to do that in a long time) and we finished a movie from the night before. We then spent the rest of the day watching movies. The "Predator" movies to be exact. B went to the new one in the theatre on Friday and so we watched the original one on Sunday. We decided to watch the second one and then "AVP" (Alien vs Predator). I lost track of time and by the time we were going to start the last one, it was 8! I almost didn't do the workout, but B and I took a break and headed down to the clubhouse to workout. Again with the treadmill, but I ran the full 5 miles.
I can safely say that it is getting easier for me to run, after mile 2 and I get a rhythm going. This next week starts the full 4 mile runs during the week. I am going to make sure to get up in the A.M. to get these done! I have also decided that one reason it may be hard for me to get through these runs is because I don't think of anything other than running! When ever I ask people what they do to help with their long distance runs the usual answer is they think about all the things going on that are stressing them out and it relaxes them. The only thing in my life right now that is stressing me out is running! I don't know if this is a good thing or a bad thing.

New Friends

2010-07-07T11:50:00.000-06:00

I added a couple of new links on my blog.
Both are amazing blogs so you should check them out!
Run Knit Get Hitched is a blog written by a friend with so many wonderful wedding ideas. I wish B and I got married this year to use some of them!

studio N photography is a blog by a good college friend of mine. From her blog you can link to her website and contact her to set up any sessions!

Update from a Mad Runner

2010-07-06T10:54:00.000-06:00

Week 3 of running has come and gone. I can honestly say that I did all the workouts and ran all my miles (for once;).
So I have decided that Mondays are the worst day possible. No running (which is good) but it is leg day. Last time I did my leg workout, I was hardly able to get in and out of cars the next couple of days. I did the workout, but didn't use as much weight and didn't push myself to the extreme. Needless to say, Monday went OK.
On to Tuesday. New week and new distances, 3.5 miler. It is FINALLY summer here in the SLC which is great for weekends, but during the week running in the heat is very draining. I am happy to say that I have gotten up early every morning and ran in the A.M. It is a little more peaceful and not as busy or hot in the morning, and the major plus side is that after work, I can relax for a bit, get and idea of what I want to cook for supper and then do my workout. Also, since it was a new distance, I found a new route to run and really enjoy (mostly for the shaded areas). Cardio is my P90X workout at night and I can say it is also getting easier!
Wednesday I had 2.5 miles and arms at night. My A.M. run didn't go too great. It was windy out in the morning. I remembered the last time it was windy and I ran as hard as I could and then was beat, so I tried to keep the same pace for the entire run as best I could. I made it, but it wasn't good and I was exhausted. Anyone who knows me knows how clumsy I am. At the end of my run, seriously across the street from my house, I tripped on a raised section of the sidewalk and almost ate it on my grille. Luckily, I have quick reflexes and caught myself before I lost my tooth and skinned up my knees. It was busy at this time, there is construction on that road and all the workers were out. I'm sure it made everyones day who say this, a girl tripping over herself and failing all over the sidewalk. Haha!! It was a sight to see. Again, like last week, arms are my fav so I made it through those no problem.
My last day of running for the work week, Thursday, another 3.5 miler. I did my same (new Fav) route, but my knee was a little sore from Wednesday's blunder and I found it a little more tiring than Tuesday's run. Halfway through the run, I was almost thinking about walking a little to rest, but Jay-Z's On to the Next One came on my iPod and gave me the boost to finish it! Yay. It always seems the right songs come on at the right time!
Friday, B and I left after work to head back to ND for B's 10 year reunion and of course his favorite holiday, Mandan Xmas. We got in later that evening on a direct flight, which was very nice, but they decided not to turn the air on the plane and we ended up on the most uncomfortable flight I have ever experienced! Once the doors opened in the Bizzo, we all instantly felt the humidity, and it didn't help out. We were met my B's family and went home to bed.
Since Saturday was the big bash and night out, I decided to get up early and get my long (5 mile) run in. It's better to do it on a morning when I didn't drink all day before it. I found a great route that went by our old place in Mandan and the golf course. It also worked out to have the wind behind me when I was heading back. I finished in record time (around 50 mins!) and in time to get ready for morning pancakes and the Art Fair downtown. We went with B's dad and family and met his grandma and some of her friend's their for breakfast. After we walked around a while looking at all the goods. B's grandma got me a great little crafty ring and I found a little surprise gift for my sister. We made it back in time to get some stuff in order before guest started arriving. Some of my amazing friends came to Mandan to help us celebrate and hang out for the day and night. B also saw some friends he hasn't seen in a while. It was good weather, well better then last years, and a great turnout. We then headed down to the bar where the reunion was being held.
Sunday we rested. We were so beat from the day before, B made us breakfast and we got in a quick nap before we headed up to B's mom's house for the afternoon. We had a blast hanging out in the pool and working on our tan. Some friends came over to say hi as well. We had a great time visiting with B's mom and family before we headed back to his dad's for the big fireworks.
We were so tire, but we enjoyed some fireworks and some more food (of course) before we went to bed.
Monday, our flight was set for 6 P.M. so we had time to go out on the pontoon in the A.M. before we had to get ready to leave. B's mom picked us up and we had a quick meal before we left. Our flight was better this time around, not as hot, and before we knew it we were on our way to get Izzie and head home. It feels good to be home and not have any trips planned for a while.

Top Cheft here I come!

2010-06-30T20:04:00.000-06:00

Haha...
I started doing my ab workout tonight with the TV on..it was Top Chef, which I haven't watched since college. My college roomie was into the show, so of course I watched it with her and loved it. I don't know if it was the show, but I came up with the BEST burger tonight I have to share it with you.
Since B and I are going back to ND this week, I have been trying to get rid of food in our fridge/freezer. So I grilled up some pre-made burgers and since I have been craving a Red Robin burger, so I thought of frying up an egg with it. Of course you need to put something else on a burger, so I pulled out some ingredients in my fridge and whipped up an amazing sauce to go with it! I was thinking of something like the Utah favorite fry sauce (ketchup and mayo mixed) but didn't want to go that unhealthy, so I remembered my Greek God's Traditional Yogurt I had in the fridge. This is a great substitute in anything that you can use mayo with (I have used it to make a coleslaw before as well). I also had an opened can of diced tomatoes in sauce. In my Rachel Ray cookbook there is a list of ingredients to keep on hand at all times, plus with B's obsession, we have a ton of different mustard's available at all times. So I scooped up some Greek's Yogurt, the tomatoes and mustard into a bowl and I must say WOW, it was the best topping that could have gone with my burger and egg! I put it all together on a piece of bread for an open faced sandie!!

Ingredients:
Burgers (any kind you want, pre-made, turkey, etc.)
Egg (fried i.e. crack it open and break the yoke, once first side cooked, turn to the next side)
Greek God's Traditional Yogurt
Can of Diced Tomatoes
Spicy Brown Mustard
Cheese, your favorite
any additional burger toppings you like!!
.
Cook burger and egg
once done, melt cheese on top of burger
.
Sauce:
Spoon in yogurt, mustard and tomatoes. Just mix to the amount you need and what makes your mouth water. (I used a big spoonful of yogurt, 2 of the tomatoes and squeezed in some mustard)
.
make your burger up and enjoy!!

Update from a Mad Runner

2010-06-28T13:15:00.000-06:00

So I am definitely getting into this routine of my running and P90X workouts. I still am not enjoying running, but hanging out/talking to my friends about running, I am trying to get into the swing of things. I think that my biggest problem is I am SO competitive with myself I never think that I am running fast enough. This week I have worked on keeping a slow and steady pace on all my runs.
.Monday...I just came back from my trip late at night (5 p.m. late, but seemed so much worse from driving all day long!) so to bed I went. No workout for me and I didn't feel bad about it.
.Tuesday...3 miler and cardio. The miles went good, I ran the first half against the wind, and again my personality made me run like S&P (Push IT) and by the time I had the wind at my back I was pooped. I'm going to blame that on my lungs, and being in a smokey bar in Lisbon all weekend.
.Wednesday. Just a quick 2 mile run then arms and back. I think that Wednesday is my favorite day. Not only is it already half through the week, but it is my shortest run and I get to do my arms workout. I love my arms day, I am seeing results in the arms and Tony's workout buddy is HILARIOUS! My 2 mile run even we really well. Maybe just this week because it was so nice out on Wednesday and I had my new Eminem CD on my ipod that I ran to. Everyone is right and it is way better to run to music you enjoy instead of thinking about how much you hate running! Ha.
Thursday. 3 miles and yoga. So, since it was so hot out last week, I decided to get my butt up in the a.m. and do my run first thing. So I actually did it, but used our treadmill at the clubhouse and enjoyed and old favorite, Saved by the Bell. It was the Christmas episode where Zach and the gang befriend a homeless girl and her dad. After the tearfull ending with Zach's mom inviting them to stay, my run was over. I went to work so proud of myself and after I was supposed to do my yoga workout, but for some reason I couldn't get myself to do it. It's easier for me to do the P90X workout once I am already sweaty from running and for some reason, I hate the yoga workout with Tony. I love it otherwise, but I don't think he knows what he is doing and it makes me mad. I guess I'll use my other yoga video.
Friday. REST! Yay! B and I had to go to Logan, UT this last weekend for the MS Bike ride. B did it this year and I am so proud of him. My sister usually does the ride, but took this year off and I am happy to report that someone else in our family stepped up and did it. i.e They are still taking donations, so if you want to donate, you can go to Ben's Facebook page to donate or you can do it directly here.
Saturday..I went for a quick run and checked out the town. Logan it so pretty and green! and since it is a little higher altitude, it was a little cooler. B did the ride and I even got a quick pic of him finishing then off to the pool we went! We spent the rest of the evening relaxing with friends.
Sunday. My long run. 4 miles to be exact. I had mapped out a run prior to leaving, but once we go to the fairgrounds, my map was all backwards so off I went to check out the scenery and take in the morning. I slept in a little more than everyone else, but when I got up, I was ready to take on the world (or the road) and I came back to a camp full of sleepers, so I did what I usually do on Sunday morning and got to cooking breakfast. I can even do it over a small travel stove!
What a week. Busy little road warrior and this next weekend we are back in ND. Mandan to be exact for B's 10 year reunion, the Annual Mandan x-mas and family time. Don't worry, we are flying this time;)

SummerSpending

2010-06-24T14:57:00.000-06:00

How do you save money?!?! I'll take any idea possible!
Since B and I have taken the plunge and bought a town home, I am trying to do as much as I can to save some MOOLA! We are still OK as far as bills go (don't worry mom's) but I definitely want to cut corners as much as possible for things that we really want to get/do, like a honeymoon.
I have been checking out online a bunch of good ideas and came up with a few:
.eat at home more, which we have been doing since our wedding. Getting a crock pot made meals easy for me and gave me the ambition to try out other recipe's as well.
.don't drive as much. This has been easy for us because we do work together and only have one gas bill for the vehicle that we use. Also these last few months I have been able to walk to work three days out of the week because I am working across the street.
.electric and gas bills. I control the thermometer at our house....enough said.
.get rid of the trite bill. Done and done. No more tanning or gym membership for me. We now have a small community gym at our community we get to use, and getting workout videos that I can use at home have worked well for me.
.renting movies instead of theatre. B and I love a night out at the movies and we used to go to one a weekend until recently. We have been renting more, and having HBO movies has been very nice and help with the bank account.
.cut out meat in meals. Haven't tried this yet, but I read using beans instead of meat for some meals can help save some money. If you have any good recipes for beans, please let us know!
.Not shopping as much! Very hard for me as I would like to get a new outfit everyday. I am going to start keeping track of how long I go without shopping! As much as I can remember, it has been since Memorial Day. Give or take a few;) Wish me luck!!

Update from a Mad Runner

2010-06-22T08:40:00.000-06:00

Week two was not as bad as week one, mostly because I was traveling and only ran two days!!
Last Wednesday after work I left for a road trip back home, just a little drive (18 hours to be exact!). I met with a classmate up in ID and we drove most of it together.
Monday I started getting ready for the trip and did my legs workout on P90X. WOW, I have not done that workout in a long time and my oh my did I get sore. And when I say sore, I mean barely able to get in and out of a car.
Tuesday was a 3 miler, which I will proudly say I ran the whole thing. I was so sore from Monday that I was dreading this run, but knew that I had to. After work I was awestruck with The Housewives of New York reunion show, which was giving me good reason to hold off on my run. I've never seen an episode, but since I didn't want to head outside, it sucked me right in. It was nice out on Tuesday, but very windy which reminded me of our amazing club house with the treadmill in it. I bolted down to make sure I could get the treadmill as it is usually being used when I go in there. Luckily it was empty and I finally figured out the TV and got my run in. It went but not well as my legs went numb. After my run I decided that since I would not be available to do all my workout the next day I better do my arm workout. P90X here I come and made it through the arms and back. While in the middle my shoulders were tired, and that's when I realized that the legs workout is actually legs and back! Two back workouts in a row for me.
Wednesday is a 2 mile run, I was planning on getting up in the am and run this, but anyone who knows me knows I am not a morning person so the snooze button was hit a couple of times! After work I headed up to Pocatello, ID and met with my friend for the amazing ride home. We made it to my parents house on Thursday afternoon...so no workout for either day! My mom and I did head out for a walk that evening but it was so windy we only went for about a mile.
Friday my newly engaged friend Michelle was in town with me and I had planned an amazing eventful day with all the Crazy Day activities going on! We did make it out for a walk in the am before we started out the day.
That night was the first of two days of booze and friends. My good friend Jenna hosted the evening for our class before we headed out to the new bar in town. It was a fun night, which is all I will say.
Saturday morning, 7:26 I woke up and got ready for a 5k race that was being held for Relay for Life starting at the High School Track. I got ready and my mom and grandma came with me to cheer on the runners and snap some pics! I am happy to report that I ran the WHOLE time, not too fast ( I finished in 30 minutes) but taking into account the night I had before, it went very well. Also, it must have helped me sweat out some alcohol because I was ready to go for the day.
Since I ran the 3 mile race on Saturday, I didn't do my run on Sunday morning. That and we left Sunday night for our long drive home, I didn't do anything other than rest on Sunday.
We made it back, finally, around 5 pm on Monday. Enough time to shower and get my stuff in before Ben came home and made me supper, then off to bed. I was beat.
I think because of the week I had last week, I will stick to my week two of training to catch up. I have something going on the next 2 weekends, so I will do my best to get this training back up to where it needs to be!
Wish me luck!

My weekly update...running is not fun

2010-06-13T17:26:00.000-06:00

Like I stated in my previous post, I am planning on running a half marathon this fall, so running I go. )I found Hal Higdon's novice running program online and started on Monday. I really like that workout day as it was no actual running and just strength and stretching! Because I saw myself last weekend in a swimsuit I decided that I better really work my butt off (literally) to get into shape for this next weekend (back to NoDak for an All Class Reunion!) so as ambitious as I am I decided to head to our complex club house to hit the treadmill for a quick mile run, quick weights and a P90X workout.
Tuesday was "THE DAY" that the running started. A mere 3 mile run, nada to most, but to me it was a tough day. I started out OK, which is my problem, I can not pace myself! I made it I would guess about 2.5 miles. It was the only nice day in SLC and in the blazing sun I was trying to push through the heat (my arm felt like it was on fire) and then oops, I hit a stupid rock path which almost caused me to eat it on my face and I gave up and walked the rest of the way home.
Wednesday, day 2 of my running, was a 2 miler or cross. I decided running was going to benefit me more as I am still doing the P90X workouts as well as the running (seriously, I only have a week to tighten it up!). I have been using Gmaps Pedometer to get the miles down. I mapped out a 2 mile run and it seemed just around the block! I went after work and felt as though it started out OK, felt great and strong. The sun again was hot (I have the start of a farmers tan) and I made it maybe 1.5 miles, then cut some corners and walked the rest of the way. I was so frustrated!
Thursday was yet again another 3 miler. I was SO frustrated from the first 3 miles run that I couldn't start this run out with a clear conscience. At about the end of the block, I decided to take a different route, one that I had mapped prior for a 3 mile run. This route was on a main road, which kind of helped me keep a good pace and there was so much going on it kept my mind off of how horrible running is! I made it home, I was so happy and excited because it felt so good! I decided to re-map the run and to my dismay...it was 2.3 miles! Aaahh! I was so upset, but on the other hand it was reassuring as how better this one run was then my previous attempts. So onto yoga I went and told B of my mishap when he came home.
Friday is an off day, and because the long run was on Sunday and P90X on my Friday is a leg routine, I thought I would switch the leg workout to Monday, with Cardio X. I did some bike in the AM with an ab workout. Saturday was Kenpo X, which I absolutely LOVE. It refreshes my legs and it a fun workout.
The dreaded Sunday 4 Mile run was upon me. There was no way I thought I was going to make it! I spent Saturday night with a friend of mine who it really into running, and just finished doing a Marathon that morning!! We had a great night on Saturday, sushi, wine and the next morning an amazing breakfast (with Bloody Mary's of course;). My friend gave me some great running pointers, but of course, I put off my run for later Sunday. There was no pep in my step to get this run done, so when B went off for a bike ride with his friend, I decided I better get this done. I again had a 4 mile route, which ran down my our old place ( and it seemed so FAR!) so I yet again remapped a new route and made a new playlist, consisting of all the greats (Britney, Eminem and some rap) and off I went. I started my pace a little slower than I did on the other runs, and felt great, for once! I was at mile 2 when the morning Bloody Mary kicked in so I stopped at a gas station to use the rest room. I felt a little better so off I went to finish the run, I started getting the dreadful "drop" on my run about a mile from home and kicked it in a little bit. Anytime I got a little to much bounce going on, my stomach ache got a little worse. I kicked it in a little bit and made it home feeling good (as far as the run went) but I had to get inside. I was at our garage opener, but in my tired stupor and the pain in my stomach, I could not seem to remember the code! After about 4 tries I thought I was going to pull a Charlotte and started to walk over to the park across the street to use the restroom. I didn't think I would quite make it so I tried the garage one more time and got it open!! I made it home, happy with my run, happy that I have a day off tomorrow, and excited to know that I only have 3 days of work this week until I leave for L-town! I am so excited to see friends and family!

Pictures of the last few months

2010-06-13T17:22:00.000-06:00

Rain Rain Go Away!

2010-06-10T09:10:00.000-06:00

So, summer has not officially started here in SLC yet. It has been on off showers most of the days with a few sunny days peaking in every once in a while, and we have been trying to take advantage of these days.
Last week Wednesday, B and I headed out of SLC to NE for a visit with some great friends and a beautiful wedding (Congrats Lance and Steph!) and the weather was so amazing! I was able to finally pull out all my dresses and tanks that I haven't been able to wear in SLC. Of course when we are gone, the sun finally made an appearance in SLC and now...RAIN.
So terrible!!
B wanted to go for a bike ride last night, but packed it in as the wind was picking up and it was getting late. I on the other hand have been trying to stick to a running schedule. My friend Jenn has decided to run a half in September and I figured no better time to do one as well! We are great running partners. If it wasn't for her I don't think that I would have ever decided to start running again! She motivates me to do it. Thanks Jenn!
Next weekend I am heading back to the roots for an All Class Reunion. My good friend Jason, who lives in ID, and I are going to road trip. A long trip for a couple of days, but I know it will be worth it. I also get to see some other friends. My good friend Michelle just got engaged a couple of weeks ago and she is in ND this summer (she has been in OR for the past couple of years).
I am planning on running a 5k for Relay for Life back home with some friends, I am going to wait to register that day in case I have too much fun on Friday night;)
Next up...pics of rock climbing and trip!

We're Back!!

2010-05-26T18:39:00.000-06:00

B and I have been sooo busy!!
B has been working on his biking. I have been working on...well, everything.
Oh, and we also bought our first place!! We purchased a new town home in a development about a month ago! It was such a whirlwind process and we are both so happy with worked out so great and (for the most part;) went really smooth!
This all happened so fast from our first visit with our amazing mortgage guy to one night of viewing homes to becoming homeowners! I guess when you know it's the place you just know it! I'm so surprised that B was so on board with me as it is such a big purchase. But to tell you the truth now I feel that B and I can start our lives together. I know that it shouldn't, but I will never forget our first night in this place. We had our first visitor, a friend of mine heading through town stopped and stayed in our mess of a place with her dog. They helped clean up Izzie's accident and start our water heater! No way was I going to be taking a cold shower! After all of that I was so happy to go to bed on our mattress on the floor.
After that we have quickly made this house a home and are happy getting to know the local neighbors. Of course there are some little hiccups and the first HOA meeting I went to made me a little nervous as to what we had gotten ourselves into! But after speaking with other people that have dealt with one have informed me that it is very normal!!
Next up for the Schmidt's
.B and I are heading to NE for a good friends wedding, and we are going to be able to visit some friends and relatives at the same time.
.A few weekends after I am heading up to NoDak with a classmate for the L-towns all class reunion! I can't wait to see everyone, it should be a great time.
.B is riding in the MS bike ride up in Logan, UT at the end of June. We are excited to go and I am very happy he got so involved in it as my grandfather had MS. My sister always road in it in MN, but this year she is not able to and we are all happy that B is stepping in! If you want to donate, let me know I will be able to send a link through email, you can check out B's facebook page or we can give you a link, just holla at 'cha gurl....haha.

Bikes and tights

2010-04-18T21:05:00.000-06:00

B and I had a busy and beautiful weekend!
First off, B has been riding his bike a lot more as the weather has been great out. B had his first Friday off on our new schedule. He was able to get some stuff done and go for a bike ride with one of his friends. We were able to visit with some friends and have a nice casual BBQ.
The next morning B and I were up bright and early at 5 am to get B over to the bike tour. B started the bike tour at 6 am. He made it through his first competitive ride in just over an hour. I was able to meet up with him before I started the 5k with Jen.
After we were done, we all hung out and watched some of the 1/2 and full marathon runners finish. It was such a great atmosphere, I almost wish I enjoyed running more and went to these things more. B also signed up for the MS 150 this June, so make sure to check out his Facebook page and donate!
We have put an offer in on a town home and it has been accepted. We are closing on April 29 and spent the rest of the weekend packing and cleaning. We also hit up Ikea to shop around for some new furniture for the new place. I am getting so excited to get over there.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T13:36:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it is already April. My brother always told me that once college was over, time went by so fast. I never believed him until it happened. Of course I knew that it would be different once no more class and working all day, but oh man, it is a MAJOR change. It's been almost three years since I graduated college, but I'm still getting used to it.
Since B and I are on our own, away from family, we are spending a lot of holiday's with just the two (three with Izzie) of us. Our new family traditions are turning into a lot of relaxing holidays. We went and got breakfast and coffee this morning and have since spent the rest of the day relaxing and B's normal day, working out. We are going to grill tonight, which is a second time for Easter, so maybe grilling with be our Easter tradition.
We woke up to snow on the ground this morning, it has already melted, and 8" in the mountains. We were going to hit the slopes again today, but decided to call it a year and start getting ready for spring activities.
B got a new road bike and it going to start riding that on the weekends. He is really excited to have a new hobby. I on the other hand, am not interested in biking, so I will have to work on a new spring hobby. Last year I worked on my shopping skills, but this year I think I will try to find something new to do! Maybe work on my photography skills since I have that amazing new camera. One thing that I would really like to do more (at least once) is camping. We got a great little coal grille for a wedding gift (thanks Bre!) and it is in the box in the basement where we put it once we opened it. B is not a big camper, but I want to try to get him interested in going more. There are a lot of great local campgrounds we can go to for a quick night of it.
Along with the springtime, B and I have signed up for the SLC Marathon. No we are not running it, but B is going to bike it and I am running the 5K with Jen. We are just doing it for fun, which is a really good thing since I have not ran to get into shape for it!

April Fools Day?

2010-04-01T08:17:00.000-06:00

Sunday

Today

....Nope just springtime in the SLC valley.

Hobbies

2010-03-25T21:29:00.000-06:00

B and I do have interests other than....SNOWBOARDING!

I know that is all we have been talking about lately, but both of us love to go to movies (or watch them at home:) check out new restaurants, B LOVES watching sports as I love watching anything on the Oxygen channel and we both love to read books.

Some new hobbies though on our list for the spring season....skateboarding and pictures.

B bought a skateboard from a young local and loves taking rides at night. He is getting really good at it and as you can tell from the following, Izzie really enjoys it! It comes as no surprise that I am really into using my camera and editing pictures.

Millcreek is up and flowing again! Spring is in the air.

Sunday Funday Walk

2010-03-24T09:16:00.000-06:00

I found a great little park near our house, so the fam headed over to check it out this past Sunday. Here's my favorite pic.

New Signature

2010-03-01T21:13:00.000-07:00

Randoms

2010-02-28T20:23:00.000-07:00

March Already!!

2010-02-28T20:01:00.000-07:00

It has been a while, but B and I have been busy (sort of..) with work, friends in town and of course our favorite winter activity...snowboarding!

B's friends came into town last week and spent quite a few days snowboarding last weekend. It was fun to see him with all his friends from before I knew him, but made me miss mine! Hopefully once we are done with the the couple of wedding's we have coming up, I can plan a couple of more trips to visit friends. We do have a NoDak 4th of July planned this year again. It is B's 10 year high school reunion this year, and it should be a good time.

Other than snowboarding, work and trying some new recipes not much else is new.

Here are some pictures that I took, and edited this weekend.

New Year Resolution

2010-02-09T13:53:00.000-07:00

Ben and I decided that we are going to save money this year...really.
We're trying to actually put some cash away to save up for a rainy day, or maybe a house. To do this Ben bought me a new book to read, "Bitches on a Budget." It gives advice on what to do to cut back on your daily routine, splurges and when it is OK to really spend money. I have attached a link to the side of by blog page to link to the Web site, which also has great money saving tips on it.
We have been doing really well saving money. No big shopping sprees for me every weekend like I was doing in the summer and we have really cut down on going out to eat, which in turn has given me more opportunity to try new meals in the kitchen. I am even more lucky that Ben is not picky and will eat anything that I make!
Since we (and by "we" I mean "I") have been cooking more, this Valentines Day we are going to stay in and make a meal together! I am excited to try out a new recipe with my Benji and (hopefully) enjoy a new creation.

"Pain is temporaty, quitting last's forever"-Lance Armstrong

2010-02-01T13:00:00.000-07:00

I thought I would start this post out with a little quote I read. It helps me cope with the big Viking's loss. Last week was not a great one in our household. After the Sunday game, and having to come to work and deal with everyone asking, Ben was fairly down in the dumps! But he powered through and had a great four day work week and took Friday off to go snowboarding with some friend. We were also able to all go up and snowboard on Saturday, and spent a beautiful, sunny day up in the mountains taking in the sights. We then tried out a new sushi place near our house that had amazing food!
Ben and I spent the day being lazy on Sunday. Watching movies, cleaned a little and then more movies! Always a great end to a great weekend, but I can not believe how fast it all went by!
Last weekend, Ben and I went up to Park City Resort on Saturday night to watch the Pipe contest. We were able to watch some great riders with some good friends. It got a little cold out and the weather wasn't great, so Ben and I left early to get him, only to be stuck in the canyon for over and hour!
Ben's birthday was last week as well. We didn't do much as Ben wanted to go to the gym and watch a movie, so I got us pizza and flicks and we stayed in! It was a nice birthday as he got some great gifts from his family!
Looking forward to February!

Holidays are over, bring on the New Year.

2010-01-09T20:47:00.000-07:00

Izzy's Christmas Hankie
Steph and I showing off our Chip and Dale Christmas gifts!!

Opening presents, I'm really excited about my socks. Ben on the other hand is really excited to open his next gift.

Ashley and I at Dicks in Vegas

Ben and I getting ready for a night on the town.

Ben watching the fountain show

First day of the season!!

So..it has been a while. Christmas has come and gone, New Year's, over, already in the 2010 and so much has happened.

Ben and I stayed in SLC for Christmas again this year. Last year was a bust as we had to work the day after Christmas, but this year, we hosted our first Christmas. My friend Jason and his girlfriend Steph were able to come down on Christmas eve and stay the weekend with us as Jason had a hockey game here in SLC on December 26. They came early on the 24th, and I was able to get the 24th off the minute so we all went up to Brighton resort to ski and snowboard. Poor Ben had to stay in town and work, but he was off early and made it home in time to help with the Christmas eve meal we made. I had started a ham and meatballs that morning so when we all got back to the house, Ben made stuffing, Jason and Steph made the green bean casserole and we also had some more friends, Lance and Stephanie, that came over and brought the desserts and mash potatoes! I can not believe how great everything turned out and I think that everyone had a great Christmas Eve meal. We had planned to hit the resorts again early on Christmas morning so of course we had to get our gift opening out of the way on Christmas Eve. It was so much fun enjoying the holiday with some close friends.

Jason, Steph, Ben and I got up early on Christmas, ate some breakfast and headed up to Snowbird. We got up there so early and were surprised that it wasn't crazy. I decided to ski with Steph and we had so much fun learning the sticks while Ben and Jason hit up the steep hills.

We were all so beat by the time Saturday came around, we just hung out, went out for lunch and then went to the Steelhead/Grizzly hockey game. Steelheads weren't able to out skate the Grizzly's but it was a fun game and am so glad that I was able to spend time with Jason and Steph.

Ben and I had another short week of work and then it was off to Vegas to spend the New Year with some friends! It took a while to talk Ben into going to Vegas for the weekend, but I think that it paid off in the end because Ben had an absolute blast! I think that we will be going back there a couple times in the next year. We hopped on a plane after work on NYE and went o Vegas to visit some friends. We had a great NYE at our friends, Ashley and Mike's at their house in Vegas. We played some games, had some good food and enjoyed their jacuzzi a few time! The rest of the weekend we spent on the strip. We did some shopping, ate some good food and got some gambling in as well:) Ben learned how to play Craps.

Some side notes, I got a new camera and am really excited to start using more to capture some great shots. Ben and I also decided that our New Year resolution is sticking to a budget and save some money. We do eventually want to buy a house and cutting back on some of the things that we do/buy/use will completely help us out. I just bought a new book, Bitches on a Budget to read and give me some ideas on where to start. I just found the blog from the writer, Rosalyn Hoffman and have attached it to my blog. Check it out it has some amazing tips in it.

Somethings we are looking forward to in 2010:

-Weddings...weddings...weddings, so excited to attend our friends weddings this year.

-saving up for a HONEYMOON!!

-Learning how to use my new camera

"Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"

2009-12-11T12:25:00.000-07:00

Because of our lazy weekend last week, when we both finished Christmas shopping and watching TV, we have decided to have a fun filled weekend this week!
Ben and I got done with work a little early last night and headed down to the Jazz vs Magic game. Dwight Howard plays for the Magic and is one of my favorite players, (after Memo of course:) and we were very excited to see him in action. We hustled downtown after work and were able to get lower bowl tickets! This is the first game we were able to get lower tickets and were very excited to watch the big game. Now I am a Jazz fan, but when there is a great player in town, I get very excited to watch them. Ben thought that the Jazz didn't have any hope to win the game, but the second half really turned around for the Jazz and they were able to pull off a W.
Tonight we are going to lay low, gym and then supper and tomorrow again a full day of basketball. Being a big sports fan, Ben wants to hit up a U of U basketball game as they are playing Oklahoma, and as far as I've heard Oklahoma must be a top ranked team. After this game, we are going straight downtown to get tickets for another Jazz game, against the Laker's tonight! It's always fun going to watch basketball for me, and the Jazz Bear is my favorite!
Along with all the sports excitement for the weekend there is another huge snow storm that is suppose to blow in starting late tonight until Sunday. Now it's unusual to get Ben away from from the TV on football Sunday's, but we might have to make our first trek up to the ski hills with all the new snow. It may be cold, but it's time for the ski season to start!

Pet Photo Permalink

2009-12-09T13:40:00.000-07:00

Pet Photo Permalink

I posted Izzie on the Progressive home page to be voted on for pets!
Check it out and cast your vote!

Trip to ND!!

2009-12-02T14:48:00.000-07:00

Ben and I went back home to Lisbon for Thanksgiving this year.
The whole family was together, well everyone but my brother in law. We had amazing food, great family time, we relaxed and not only that, we had a chance to get away!
We flew in on Thanksgiving morning to Fargo, with a quick layover in Minneapolis, we were on the ground by 12:30 pm. Heather came and picked us up, a pit stop at Ryan's place in Horace, and back to L-Town to get ready for supper.
Turkey, stuffing, potatoes and don't forget about

the pre-meal shot we had to take. My dad had a great liquor that we toasted and roasted before we stuffed ourselves full. Since Heather and I are now old married ladies, we helped with the cleaning up so no big after dinner nap for us.
The rest of the weekend was full of coffee dates, little bit of shopping, playing games and laying around.
We did make it out one night and met up with some friends. Nothing crazy but the usual Thanksgiving crowd and shots.
Ben and I left on Sunday evening after we were able to stop for a quick bit to eat with some friends at BWW in Fargo. We had to miss the Vikings game as everyone had to get home to watch it, so Ryan dropped us off at the airport and Ben and I relaxed before our flight.
It was a great weekend. We made it back to SLC before Desperate Housewives started, picked up our puppy we missed so much and then back to work on Monday. The only thing that we didn't get was some snow on the ground in SLC, we are ready to hit the slopes!

We found our old childhood hats!

Giesen Family Chiropractic!

2009-11-24T14:15:00.000-07:00

Get ready for this!
Heather, my talented sister, is opening a new chiropractic office in the New Prague area in MN.
I am so excited for her and hope that you all will support her in her new adventure
check out her blog on the side of my page under Giesen Family Chiropractic. There you can check out all her info, pics and learn about the Gonstead method!

New Moon

2009-11-23T11:14:00.000-07:00

Having another great weekend of shopping, movies and laying around makes the weeks go by so fast and the weekends linger! It seems the only thing I am looking forward too are weekends like this. We are lucky though and things are on the up and up as we just had our first big snow last night. Nine new inches up in the mountains and nothing on the roads this morning to make for a nasty commute. Well, not for Ben and I as least. The early morning travel didn't have it quite as nice.
Saturday we did a little shopping around. We checked out some snowshoes at REI. We met some people that go and we want to start to do some hiking up in the mountains.
Sunday we watched the Vikings game and the I hit up "New Moon" with some friends. Once we were out of the theatre, the snow was flying. We had a normal lazy Sunday night watching TV and reading. But I did still have time to test out a new meal for Ben and I. I had a left over steak and thawed out to make a pasta sauce with it. I took some red and green peppers, cut them up and sauteed the steak, peppers and mushrooms in some butter and garlic. I then made a cream sauce with some white wine, cream and shredded cheese. It cooked very fast and then just boiled up some noodles and enjoy! Ben loves that I have been trying new meals for us to try.
Up next...Thanksgiving in ND. Can not wait!!

Movies, Movies, Movies

2009-11-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love watching movies and so does Ben. It's something that we like to do together because we both know that well will go with each other, good or bad.
Since it was snowing all day on Saturday, Ben and I didn't leave our couch!
Once SATC movie came out, I had to watch it even though I have never watched the seasons. Once I watched the movie I watched all the seasons 1-6 in about a month. It was all I wanted to do! In one of the episodes when Big is getting married to the model, Carrie makes a reference to "The Way We Were" with Barbara Streisand and Robert Redford. Ever since, I have been dying to watch it. So I finally did this weekend. It was not what I thought, but good non the less. I would definitely recommend it, who doesn't love those oldies!!
We then decided to watch another one, after a nap of course! I like to let Ben chose 3 movies he wants to see and then I pick the one we watch. We ended up watching "Bad BoysII". It's such a funny movie and a little action. Will Smith and Martin Lawerance are so good together. Once that was over, I decided that we need to watch the original "Bad Boys". We barely made it through it, but it was a great movie day!

My top 5 Favs!

2009-11-15T21:07:00.001-07:00

I have changed some in the last couple of years. I am the same, I just have some new things that I like.
1. I LOVE grocery shopping! I used to absolutely dispise doing it. I don't know what has really change. Mostly, it's because I have started cooking different things, but I have also found ways to save money and to me its so fun.
2. I LOVE having a clean house. Now, I don't like cleaning, I just like keeping it clean. Before I used to not care because I wasn't always home, but now it's becoming second nature to keep it clean.
3. I Absolutely have to have my bed made in the morning. I NEVER use to make the bed because I always figured that I would just mess it up again at night, but now it drives me nuts if it is not made.
4. I LOVE HDTV. I don't even own a home, but I love it.
5. I LOVE getting up in the morning. Actually I just HATE sleeping in, but didn't want to say hate right away. I have to be up at least by 8a.m. or else I feel like I am wasting my day away.

This proves that people can change.

How do you know if your in love?

2009-11-10T11:38:00.000-07:00

No seriously, how do you?

It seems to me that there are different kinds of love. There's family love, the way you feel about parents, siblings and relatives. There is friend love, caring so much about your friends that you will tell them the absolutely truth, no matter how horrible it will make them feel. And then there is true love.

How do you know when it is true love? How do you know when it is "right"? How do you know when it is the person you should be with forever, make a life together, someone you make all the hard decisions with?

I guess the truest answer is you don't know. You don't always know when it is right. This is where the other feelings come into play. Like trust, lust, compassion and honesty.

Ben and I have been married for approximately three months and sometimes I still wonder, what made us take this leap?

Everything was great before Ben put a ring on my finger. We had fun together and we were able to do our own things. We were always honest, caring and loved one another so what difference is there if there are rings involved?

People have asked me multiple times how married life is...honestly it's about the same. Not much has changed but my last name, and it's the most extensive change yet! Ben and I still care about, love each other, are honest and compassionate, but we haven't done a lot of the life planning yet. When is this supposed to happen? It seems most people plan so much of their lives now. When to buy a home, when to have children, what are we going to do for the holidays and when will we be debt free. Now personally I feel as though life happens now. It is the last minute plans with friends, the quick trips, the nights hanging out at home. Where does the planning fit in? My mom always said she didn't plan when she was going to have kids, "where is the fun in that? You will never feel ready." And that's OK. That's what life is. It's happening now.
I guess that's how you know when your in love. It's when you do the day to day things together and know that it is all you have ever wanted in life. It's now.

ah fall and scary movies

2009-11-05T09:42:00.000-07:00

So....Ben and I had a great Halloween. We headed up to Park City and went bar hopping with some friends. Ben was a pilot and I was dressed as an aviator, WE MATCHED! Everything thought Ben was a cop every bar we went into, "is he serious?" is what I kept hearing.
The night went by fast, but we had so much fun.
It has been so cold here lately. They even opened a resort on Halloween for season pass holders, seriously in October! The resorts aren't set to open up for a couple more weeks. Ben is patiently waiting to go and I am excited the weather warmed up a bit!
The night before Halloween, one of Ben's friends asked us to go to "Paranormal Activity" which is a scary movie about ghost that came out this year. Ben HATES scary movies and I love them, but being a nice husband, Ben came with. I didn't think the movies was that scary, it was ok, but I wanted more. A few nights after the movie Izzie started acting wierd at night and NOW I'm freaked out about the movie and do not like being home alone! One night, about 5 a.m. Izzie woke up barking, fighting to get out from under the covers and ran to both doors. Ben went out to see what she was doing and she was sitting on her bed, almost as if she was confused and thought she was in trouble! A few nights after that debacle, I woke up to Izzie chowing down on her food at 2 a.m. It was so bizarre, she doesn't eat a bunch of food at once and in the middle of the night she devoured her whole bowl of food! I am trying not to think about that movie, but it just happens and now I think it is so freaky!! I had to google it to make sure it was fake, don't worry, it was.
So, not much else new, one of my friends is moving in a few weeks and we will proably hang out with her until she moves. My friend is in town until tomorrow night working for the Idaho hockey team, we are going to the game on Friday, and I am going on a hike this afternoon....yay half days and 70 degree weather!

What The Schmidt!

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I found this on a blog and think everyone should read it

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