Best of What's Around

2010-08-27T21:02:00.000-07:00

Heather + Baby Goat = Love at first sight

I carried this little dreamboat around with me all morning at work (Petting Zoo day).

Twenty Five

2010-08-21T17:40:00.001-07:00

I think it's safe to say blogging is not one of my priorities anymore.

But I have had a wonderful summer- it's always a little sad when the summer ends.

Marshall took me downtown for my birthday, it was a really fun night until I spilled gelato over my dress.

That cut the evening a bit short.

I am not sure where I'll be by the time I turn 26, but I have some plans,

and one of them is bound to work out, right? :)

I couldn't ask for any more than where I'm at now though. Life is beautiful.

I'm FAMOUS

2010-06-29T19:00:00.000-07:00

This is how I laugh.

2010-05-09T21:02:00.000-07:00

I wake up at midnight to these texts from my friend:

[eating disorder counselor]..okay who in this room thinks they have to look like a model? Everybody raise their hands...Come on don't be shy...Okay watch me eat this bag of Milanos...Let me show you girls how it's done.

[prison warden]... Okaaaaay one eyed willy... hands to yourself big guy... don't make me tell you again... I don't know how they do things in the ghetto but here in the Ohio state slammer, we go by my rules.

M's Birthday

2010-05-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

The Snake Farm. Every boy's dream.

Not pictured is the massages we got after this to bring back some sanity.

Dinner at the Huisache Grille.

Karaoke party with all our friends.

Marshall rocking out to Creeeeeeed.

2010-04-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

H&M

Never Too Old To Play

2010-03-25T20:14:00.001-07:00

My old internship advisor/good friend Jeff was on the news yesterday

morning talking about the upcoming Senior Games this Saturday.

Very cool!!

Irish You Love, Luck, and Laughter

2010-03-17T21:48:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love the smallish Holidays like St. Patty's Day.

I love celebrating it with the people I love.

Especially the ones I don't get to see a lot,

like my parents and Aj. Here until Monday!

Hope you had a great St.Patrick's Day too.

2010-02-21T18:56:00.000-08:00

Got to see Elder Bednar last night at a fireside in San Antonio. Most people have been to a Q&A session with one of the apostles, but this was the first time for me. It was an incredible experience. My favorite part: "People ask me all the time 'Elder Bednar- how do I know if it's me or the Holy Ghost?' Answer: Quit worrying about it. If you keep the commandments, you're on the right path. The culture of our church gets caught up in knowing. Quit fussing about it. God trusts you. Don't be freaked out that you're not getting "inspiration" the way you think you should. Honor your covenants, keep the commandments, and your steps will be guided...and the majority of the time, you won't even know it."

2010-02-16T16:16:00.000-08:00

Finally got around to seeing New Moon. Took Marshall with me. We don't know why we go see these movies- we really do not "get" them, I never finished the first book, etc. But for whatever reason, we went. Laughed through most of it, but if I'm serious about one thing Twilight- it is this:

Heather = Team Jacob.

Perhaps it had something to do with this moment

When I realized how similar he looks to a certain someone sitting next to me.

Vampires are overrated.

2010-02-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

Could this show be any funnier.

AHAHAAHHAHA.

2010-01-28T20:23:00.000-08:00

One of the best all-around albums I've ever come across.

Listen to this guy.

2010-01-25T16:23:00.000-08:00

Davis Fam,

You = Life. Am browsing through the 10 pics I took of the trip- and could this have been any better? Highlights include...

Jocelyn teaching us Beyonce's Single Ladies dance in long lines

Never getting lost due to the Davis Shout

Telling funny Dad stories to help us feel more like he was there

Staying at Hollywood Studios for over 13? hours with Joc and Ryan

Spencer- the only member of the family baby Liv will go near

Coco Beach- though the pictures depict me absent.

Meeting characters with the girls

Thanks for the Florida Adventure!

(Mom, why do I not have a single pic of you??)

Now on to this year's challenge:

Marathon

+ Frankenstein

= FRANKENTHON AUSTIN MARATHON

You get to dress up in costume and run your marathon!

"Thriller"-esque, perhaps?

I run October 21!

Trick or Treat

2009-11-04T17:48:00.000-08:00

Happy (late) Halloween!

(Thanks for the pics, Les, I accidentally deleted mine.)

Had a blast trick or treating with the girls for the 3rd year in a row!

Thanks for letting me be a Barlow again, Sis!

2009-09-16T16:29:00.000-07:00

In 3 short days....

Both of these girls arrive in Texas! (One for 10 days, the other permanently.)

I'm so excited to be reunited with my home fries.

Jocelyn is such a blast to be around and makes every situation fun.

And Zoe... well, my dad says it best- "isn't she just the cutest little blonde?"

2009-09-13T17:26:00.000-07:00

How did I spend my weekend?

Well, with rain storms creating this round the city...

Marsh and I decided to make it a weekend "in."

We enjoyed a nice big New York style pizza at a local fave up in

Georgetown while watching Friends re-runs...

Enjoyed a mug of apple cider while reading

mags at Barnes and Nobles during yet another downpour....

(they make the best cider. go try some soon)

Went and saw this movie. Not my best decision... but it had its moments...

Put on PJs and watched office re-runs to get pumped for the new season!

4 more days!!

Ok, so maybe it wasn't that exciting.. but in a way I really enjoyed

sleeping in, lounging around, watching old shows, and being lazy in the rain.

I think everyone could use a weekend "in" every now and then.

24

2009-09-06T21:15:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I celebrated birthday #24. It was a great day.. and has been a great year since!

The Barlow family threw me a great surprise party!

Birthday morning workout.

Macaroni Grill with friends.

Meg comes to visit!! We had a blast the entire time. Loved catching up with this girl.

Six Flags. Sick on every ride- still rounded them all.

Hitting up some sales at the Tanger outlets in San Marcus.

San Antonio's Hard Rock Cafe!

Our downtown photoshoot. Thanks Les- they turned out great!

Loving my life at 24! Here's to the rest of the year!

God's sense of humor

2009-08-07T21:03:00.000-07:00

I normally don't share too many work stories, but this one has to be passed on. This month I created a "spa day" activity in which I take women to the beautyshop and give them an upscale (within my budget) hand massage and manicure. This morning, I brought in one of my favorite ladies. As we began, she took off her wedding ring and placed it on the table, and I began her massage not thinking twice about it. A few hours later, her daughter comes up to me and politely says "Heather... my mom has lost her wedding ring and said she took it off when you were giving her a manicure?" Wide-eyed, I assured the daughter (and myself) that it was probably in the beautyshop and I'd go get it. Thirty minutes later after praying my heart out while tearing through every trash can and laundry basket I came in contact with (not to mention crawling corner to corner bug-eyed), I had to fess up and tell them that the ring had been misplaced. Very disheartened, she let me know she wasn't upset at me and that these things happen. Can you imagine how responsible and horrible I felt? I was so scared what would happen to me when my boss found out what had happened! With nothing else to do but go back to work- I started getting ready for another activity when one of the nurse aids came up to me and said Ms. Richey had found her ring!! I ran to her room to find her sitting on her chair. She started laughing when I walked in and simply said "would you know it? it was in my bosom the whole time. I put things in my bra when I'm empty-handed."

Ohhh, your bosom. Why didn't I think of that?

"and then I'll be like- move it skinny"

2009-07-19T09:30:00.000-07:00

(still one of my favorite jokes, Riss)

Today I retire my skinny jeans.

They don't make sense on my body anymore.

R.I.P my old friend- back to boot-cut it is.

2009-06-25T21:17:00.000-07:00

From the middle school dance recitals (both "Thriller" and "Bad")....

to the 10th grade History 2 month research project on his personal life...

and the countless hours watching music videos....

there is no denying that I loved Michael Jackson.

Truly a legend, and amazing performer!

Since some have asked to see...

2009-06-24T18:45:00.000-07:00

Meet my apartment. This is how I lived for a week and a half.

My mono would not allow me to do any work.

...it was pretty bad.

After!

Biggest closet I've ever had. It's not even that big, haha. But I love it.

Happy to be healthy again.

A time for first

2009-05-24T09:45:00.000-07:00

This past week marked my one year in Texas. I've been thinking about everything that's happened since that first night Allison and I drove in at 2 AM to Leslie and Ryan's apartment complex. I feel like I don't even know that girl sometimes when I realize how many "firsts" have happened here. First time truly, truly living away from home (that was probably overdue), first time getting a real job and starting a career. First time making some real money. First time sticking to a regular workout (thanks a million, jillian). First time having a boyfriend that I truly trust and love. First time buying a car on my own. . I guess all these "firsts" have prepared me for what's around the corner. This Friday I sign a 13 month contract. While I've debated with myself hundreds of times back and forth if this is really the right thing to do, I've come to the conclusion that at this point, I couldn't -and wouldn't- have it any other way.

My friend Meg and I were talking the other day and I was telling her that I really do believe in The Secret. I used to daydream as a little girl how fun it would be to grow up, get a job, and live in my own apartment. Is this weird? I've realized I have always wanted to do this. People have been pointing out the downfalls- loneliness....unsafe.....impractical..... but when it all comes down to it, it's what's best for me, and I couldn't be more excited. So here's to starting a second year of living in this wonderful land, and living it up on my own!

Six-month Sabbatical

2009-04-13T19:39:00.000-07:00

I've been so out of the loop these past months, but I *finally* got my Mac back, and my camera is back in my life too, so here's some very over-due pics of your favorite remote Texan blogger. Enjoy.

OCTOBER

Halloween: My all-time favorite holiday. This was one of my best Halloween's ever. I wore three different costumes that day, got to hang out with my home girls (London, Maddie and Les) and went to a crazy ward party.

NOVEMBER

Marshall shows me the ropes downtown and introduces me to this lovely man, Leslee

-aka- the Queen of Austin.

THANKSGIVING TIME

Meka. I lived with this girl for 5 months and had a blast with her.

She taught me how to cook dinner and I taught her how to appreciate the Office. Fair trade.

EARLY DECEMBER

I also have a job. I really have enjoyed working at Park Valley Inn. Here we are at Christmas making holiday crafts. Sometimes I really underestimate how much work goes into a project, but overall I'm learning a lot and really love the experiences I've been having.

MID-DECEMBER

Christmastime. An "Elf" spaghetti/syrup/candy dinner = Grossest/best meal of the season.

CHRISTMAS EVENING

Jocelyn learns to ride Marshall's bullet bike. JK- but she looked cool on it.

NEW YEARS

The family takes canoes out at Zilker park. This was in January, look at that beautiful weather for crying out loud! Teaching the grandchildren young to love canoeing, you know that's a priority to us Davis' (Davises? I have never learned how to pluralize my last name correctly)

JANUARY

Here is a pic of Marshall overlooking Austin. I really like this picture of him for some reason.

VALENTINE'S DAY

For Valentine's day, since I don't have children of my own, I splurged on my nieces and bought them balloon basket n' bear bouquets. The next few weeks, every time they saw me they asked if I had more presents for them.

Lol. Could these girls be any sweeter.

EARLY SPRING- MARCH

Marshall took me to SXSW which, after being confused for weeks by the billboards, stands for South By Southwest- HUGE concert series expanded over 3 days. We saw Fastball and Explosions in the Sky and there was a huge fireworks show at the very end of it overlooking the river. We loved it!! (even if we were slightly high from surrounding potheads)

Another Year, Another Move

2009-01-12T08:48:00.000-08:00

Fact: I have moved 12 times in the past 5 1/2 years.
Next month makes 13. This time I'm really ready for it though. I'm moving in with two close friends from the ward in a nice, new, clean, adorable house.
A lady from work gave me a lot of her old furniture including a flat screen TV and a queen sized bed, for $50! LUCKY BREAK, right?

I'm hoping this year will see as many positive changes as the last one did. I hope to build on that and always keep challenging myself. A few things I hope to really accomplish this year are to run a marathon, finish my college scrapbook, get a dog, and start going back to school (ugh, i know). Also, getting my laptop back. That has proven to be a real challenge, as I haven't seen it since Thanksgiving. WTH.

Gifts of the Season

2009-01-02T13:14:00.000-08:00

Favorite Present Given:

Favorite Present Received:

What could be better than these gifts! I've always wanted to give someone a Dwight Schrute Bobblehead, and finally I found the perfect candidate worthy of me forking over the moolah for it. BF. He, in turn, got me the office trivia game (and a puppy!...stuffed puppy). Currently, we read through a few dozen trivia cards every day so that we'll kick trash once we have our tournament with our ward buddies. Don't tell.

2008-12-31T07:46:00.000-08:00

After much anticipation- last night I finally got to see Marley & Me. I was so excited when I saw the preview for this movie, as it has been one of my favorite books the past few years. What I did not anticipate was how many tears would be shed. I miss my dogs, a lot. To the point where I cry over them. A lot. Is this weird?

After the movie we (me and bf) went to the pet store to look at puppies (started crying again) Conclusion: My body doesn't want babies, all it needs is a dog. I'm going through withdrawals.

2008-12-23T10:49:00.000-08:00

Jack's Mannequin: Swim

You Gotta Swim
Swim for your life
Swim for the music
That saves you
When you're not so sure you'll survive
You gotta swim
Swim when it hurts
The whole world is watching
You haven't come this far
To fall off the earth
The current will pull you
Away from your love
Just keep your head above

I found a tidal wave
Begging to tear down the dawn
Memories like bullets
They fire at me from a gun
Cracking the armor yeah
I swim for brighter days
Despite the absence of sun
Choking on salt water
I'm not giving in,
I swim

You gotta swim
Swim in the dark
There's no shame in drifting
Feel the tide shifting away from the spark
Yeah you gotta swim
Don't let yourself sink
Just find the horizon
I promise you it's not as far as you think
The currents will drag us away from our love
Just keep your head above
Just keep your head above
Swim
Just keep your head above
Swim, swim
Just keep your head above
Swim

Well Said, Andrew.

This Christmas

2008-12-19T08:22:00.000-08:00

This Christmas is:

1st time away from the Davis Home since birth.
Family coming to Austin!
1 entire week off work.
Losing traditions.
Starting new ones.
Spending lots of time with the boyfriend.
Running, running, running.
"Elf" Party complete with a spaghetti + syrup + candy dinner
Lord of the Rings Party
Trail of Lights at Zilker Park
75 degree weather
Shopping at the Outlets with the girls.
Missing the dogs.
Missing old friends.
Loving new friends.
Taking the family around the city.
Catching up with siblings and parents.
Missing Allison and Spencer.

2008-12-13T09:21:00.000-08:00

Mark my words, I will never cut my hair again.

Heather Nicole Davis-- You do not like short hair. Nor do you look good with short hair.

Stop cutting it.

This is the third time in my life I've done this. Ok it's really not short--a little above my shoulders. But I feel naked and not cute. Long hair is what I like, and long hair is what I will stick with from here on out.

What's Up Readers?

2008-12-12T08:34:00.000-08:00

I know this sounds dramatic, but I love when I find a song that changes my life. One of my favorite artists is Andrew McMahon of Something Corporate and now Jack's Mannequin. I just bought his new album and have literally listened to track 10 "Hammers and Strings (A Lullaby)" hundreds and hundreds of times. I highly recommend this album, (his swearing has decreased dramatically) and specifically this song. It is so beautiful--do you ever feel like a song belongs to you?

I'm training for a marathon. No, not a sissy half-mar. The Real Deal Peeps. This is something I have wanted to do since High School, and I finally realized if you can't run 26.2 miles when you're 23 years old, when do you expect to be able to? Training takes a lot of time. I repeat a lot of time, but it's worth every minute. Meg Stephanie Blair Radiviginchi will be joining me (in a matching outfit mind you) for Race Day here in Austin in 2 months.
Am I nervous? YES.
Do I freak out about my shin splints on a daily basis? YES. But actually not as much anymore--I have found hope in a bottle titled "Tiger Balm." --Walgreens, BUY IT if you understand my pains.
Am I excited? YES!

After a two month panic of a missing camera (never trust a boy with your camera), it has been returned to the safety of my purse. I will update pictures as soon as I get my Mac back from the repair shop (should I be worried that I haven't heard from them in 3 weeks).

Do not comment, after all I don't comment on yours anymore, although I still do read your blogs.

Schlitterbahn

2008-09-21T18:38:00.000-07:00

Be careful pronouncing this word. (schLitterbahn)

This is the best waterpark in the world...seriously.

A bunch of my friends and I went Saturday, and even though it was way crowded, it was such a fun day. The best part was being talked into doing the "skycoaster." AHHHHH. Me and two of my friends strapped into a sling and raised to the top of a 300 foot launch tower and then dropped-- swinging back and forth above the waterpark.

Loved it! If you're ever in Austin, I will take you to this waterpark and make you do it with me.

P.S. I miss all of you.

2008-09-16T16:36:00.001-07:00

Greetings anyone who still reads this.

Do not panic. Hurricane Ike did not sweep me away--

I have not had the internet for 3 weeks except at work where I can't access blogs.

....I do not like this situation.

In the meantime...today in Austin the weather cooled down a bit. Summer is officially over,

and that means Fall is on its way. But it's not the same! There is something very heart-warming about autumn in Provo. The canyon, the mountains, the trees, everything.

I miss it.

P.S. I'm officially employed--have my own office, no residents yet but hopefully soon, the building is waiting for he safety code to pass still (it failed once already) I'll post pics soon.

It's been a little crazy trying to figure everything out but I really love my new job!

Happy Birthday Riss!

2008-08-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

Marissa--You are smart, funny, talented, and beautiful. What more could I want in a friend.

I hope you had a great birthday! I love you!

2008-08-10T16:06:00.000-07:00

On Friday morning I was told that I got the job! Thanks for all the interviewing tips, they paid off. The interview went really well, I was extremely impressed with the building--it's brand new, and beautiful. I will be the recreation therapist starting September 15. What's great about this job is that the administrator of the building used to be a rec. therapist so I'll have someone to turn to with all my questions. There is a lot to learn, but I'm really excited about it!

For Real

2008-08-06T16:52:00.001-07:00

Up until this point in my life, I've never had to seriously interview for a job. I'm used to meeting with the owner/boss, sitting down for a few minutes, handing them a resume and answering a few questions. No big deal. Well, before even processing what was going on, I scheduled an interview for an activities director position at a brand new long-term care facility in Round Rock, Texas. I wasn't even thinking about the fact that I might be nervous, or that I should probably prepare for this until today at work, a few too many people overheard that I had an interview coming up and next thing I know I'm sitting in the center of 3 of the administrators answering my best to their sly and creative questions I may be asked tomorrow such as... "What is something you would bring to this facility and this company that no one else could?" umm........ Now I'm starting to feel a little more like the guy in the picture! This may sound silly but the drive home I turned off the radio and practiced answering these possible questions as professionally and prompt as possible. I must say, interviewing is not my forte, simply because I haven't had much experience with it. The fact of the matter is though--I am well cut out for this job. I've been in the industry over 5 years, have a broad range of experience, and know how to handle this population well. Now, learning to "sell" all of this efficiently in 10-15 minutes....any last minute advice?

2008-08-01T09:28:00.000-07:00

So here has been my problem this summer: it is really really hot and humid here, and I'm not allowed to wear any open-toed shoes at work. I won't give you all the details but it has not been a pretty combination. The other day I found this product--Just Feet foot spray by Sally Hansen. I was a little skeptical but bought it anyway. IT WORKS. I spray it in my shoes and on my feet in the morning and it completely saves me--my feet stay so much more dry and do not smell at the end of the day. If you know what I'm talking about, go buy this product!

100 Years

2008-07-30T19:53:00.000-07:00

Today my favorite resident at Gracy Woods II turned 100 years old. Can you imagine what that would be like to live that long? I was in charge of throwing her a huge surprise party, complete with 100 balloons, 3 cakes that spelled out 1 0 0, and almost 100 guests! It turned out so well.

Here is an idea of what America was like in the year 1908:

The average life expectancy was 47 years. (well she certainly exceeded that)
Only 14% of the homes had a bathtub
Only 8% of homes had a telephone
There were only 8,000 cars in the U.S., and only 144 miles of paved roads.
The maximum speed limit in most cities was 10 mph.
The tallest structure in the world was the Eiffel Tower
The average wage was 22 cents per hour
More than 95% of all births took place in the home
90% of all doctors had no college education. They attended so-called medical schools, many of which were condemned in the press and by the government as "substandard" (um, ok..)
Most women only washed their hair once a month (I would have fit right in)
The American flag had 45 stars: Arizona, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Hawaii, and Alaska hadn't been admitted to the Union yet.
The population of Las Vegas, Nevada was only 30!
There was no Mother's Day or Father's Day.
Two out of every 10 adults could not read or write
Only 6% of all Americans had graduated from high school
Marijuana, heroin, and morphine were all available over the counter at the local corner drugstores.

It makes you wonder what "crazy" things people will say 100 years from now about today--I'm strongly betting there will be a different fuel source by then, maybe someone will have cured cancer or at least come close, perhaps marijuana will become legal again, who knows! I hope that if I live to be 100 I'm as great of a person as Edna Hollaway is.

2008-07-26T19:26:00.003-07:00

sorry for all the youtube links these days. or if you don't appreciate animal humor-- but i L-O-L every time i watch this. The mom is so funny.

Why Yes-- I could very well live here.

2008-07-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Meet my future home! I may need a new profession in order to buy it. but details schmetails.

How to throw a Luau for the elderly

2008-07-19T20:05:00.000-07:00

For my Capstone Project, I threw a Hawaiian Luau for the residents and their families. It turned out really well in the end but there were some stressful parts to it. In case you ever need to throw one, here's how to do it:

1. My boss--bless his heart--was insistent that for the invitations I assemble 120 "message in a bottles." Each one takes about 5 minutes. Do not start this project at 9:00 PM, or you will be up until 3:30 AM.

2. Morning of--creatively decorate fruit trays. This part is really fun, but you do not need 8 of them, unless you want a lot of leftovers.

3. Cheesecake bites--an automatic hit, everyone loves these.

4. Bring in some Hawaiian dancers. The residents will love this part and clap to the music.

5. Serve the residents great food, including this "Sand Dessert." Again, you do not need to make 6 of these buckets. 2 is plenty.

6. Make a killer drink. All it is is Simply Lemonade with mint leaves and orange slices but everyone will love it. For this drink...you will need more than you think. It runs out fast.

7. Have fun with your coworkers. I love these girls, they helped me so much and all the residents love them because they are always dancing and laughing.

I was exhausted by the end of it all, it took a lot of planning to order all the food, decorations, DJ, dancers, organize it all, and come up with games for the staff and residents, but in the end it was worth it. The residents all loved it and my boss gave me an A.

Girl's Best Friend.

2008-07-13T22:06:00.000-07:00

I need to have a dog in my life. And Soon. I decided today that once I find a good job, I am going to buy myself a puppy. Suggestions anyone? I love miniature dachshunds, beagles, and mixes of terriers, spaniels, or yorkies, but love all dogs which I'm sure you already know.

King Charles Cocker Spaniel

Miniatue Dachshund

Dachshund Terrier Mix (could you not just die?!)

Give him to me!! I absolutely love dogs that head cock, it kills me!

H to the Annette! AKA Kirsten Krason

2008-07-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

Here's to Kirsten Sue Curtis Krason! She is definitely one of my favorite people in this world. I don't think I've ever found a flaw in this girl--she is so much fun to be friends with and without a doubt can always make me laugh. How lucky I was to find her in High School!! She has helped me through a lot. I admire this girl in many, many ways and will always consider her one of my closest friends. I would be so lost without her in my life!

I love you Kirsten!! Have a wonderful Birthday!

sleepless thoughts

2008-07-07T01:51:00.000-07:00

It's later than I want it to be, but I feel like writing anyway, because I don't have this urge a lot anymore so I want to take advantage of it while it's here. I've also decided my blog is sometimes too "fun"--which accompanies its title very nicely, but, at least for tonight, I want my blog to know a little more than the side of me I normally share. Here goes.

I live simple right now. I give myself a lot of breaks. I let myself sleep a lot. I drive to Wendy's and get myself a frosty "just because." I'm really easy on myself, and I don't like it.

I need the Provo Canyon like the needle needs the vein (Tim + Faith know what I mean). My body craves it all the time. I miss the serenity of mountains. The joy in watching families BBQ as I pass them. Or nearly being hit by longboarders. As strange as it sounds, that canyon is one of my closest friends. It's my comfort. My shelter. My home. What I would give for one late afternoon run.

I have a love/hate relationship with my body right now. People tell me I'm too skinny and it's not a bad thing that I've put on a few pounds. I agree with them in a sense. I find curves appealing too. That being said, I am very attracted to the idea of looking in the mirror and finding an athletic girl. Sleek arms, defined calves, a tight tummy. It's the work itself that I'm attracted to more than the results though. I want to push myself and teach myself to physically work hard at something in order to accomplish anything. Sort of a metaphor for my future...

Do you ever want to throw every article of clothing you own into a big sack labeled "garbage." I'm talking every last pair of socks. Just start over completely. Find clothes that define you more--instead of the cute ones found on sale. I'm tempted by this every few years or so. I did this after I got home from Hawaii when I realized I dressed like a 12-year old. I want to work in a profession where I can wear a skirt with heels and curl my hair everyday. Dressing up will always be fun to me.

I've read my scriptures every single day this year so far. Not one day has been missed. Ok I'm lying. ONE day has been missed. On purpose too--I gave myself a "break" on July 1 after 6 straight months. I am so silly sometimes. My purpose is consistency for 2008. I've never gotten that down, so I made a promise that no matter what--I would read each day this year, be it 5 chapters, or 5 verses. Little phrases stick with me more throughout the day and when I look at my scriptures I don't so much see "task" as I do "comfort." Next year I'll work at understanding doctrine, but for now the only concern I have is habit. I'm proud of where I'm at.

I love 3 year old girls. I love their simplicity. Isn't it interesting the way life works? Little girls are flawless. Their hair naturally falls just right, the sun highlights it perfectly. Their skin is absolutely flawless and smooth as silk. And they have no idea. Their only concern is making sure they use a pink fork rather than an orange at dinnertime.

The idea of moving back home gives me a stomachache. I know I'm not meant to go back. But saying it out loud makes me want to crawl and hide under the covers. I'm not homesick. Oh, every once in awhile maybe, for a few minutes (4th of July? Yes.) But in a long-term sense, it hurts me to think of not living in my Provo. Specifically, in my basement where everything's safe and taken care of. But I know that's not where I truly want, or need to be.

I have finished season 3 of Arrested Development and can whole-heartedly say that Tobias Funke has opened the door of comedy wider than I ever imagined. A lot of times it's not even so much laugh out loud funny as it is appreciation...for a fictional character, but, regardless, he makes me so happy.

And on that note, it's probably time to sleep.

Fred Willard Rocks My World.

2008-07-05T12:02:00.000-07:00

American Baby

2008-07-03T18:52:00.000-07:00

If these walls came crumbling down

And fell so hard to make us lose our faith

From what's left you'd figure it out

Still make lemonade taste like a sunny day.

I hold onto you

You lift me up

And always will

I see you in light

Hope I don't get left behind

Stay beautiful baby,

I hope you stay American baby

American baby.

DMB

Yes our country has many flaws, but I'm still very proud to be an American. Even when horrible things happen, we will always figure them out and do the best with what we've got. I love this song for the lyrics alone. Though many people disagree with me, I think it speaks of nothing but hope for this nation we live in. We are what makes America. I hope we always hold onto our values and remember how great our country really is. What a wonderful time of year to celebrate. Let Freedom Ring!

The Explanation Behind My Blog Title

2008-06-30T19:07:00.000-07:00

Dear Meg Dawg,

Hey my friend

It seems your eyes are troubled

Care to share your time with me?

Would you say you're feeling low-- and so

a good idea would be to get it off your mind

See you and me have

a better time than most can dream

have it better than the best

so can pull on through

whatever tears at us

whatever holds us down

and if nothing can be done

We'll make the best of what's around

Turns out not where but who you're with

that really matters

and hurts not much when you're around

and if you hold on tight

to what you think is your thing

you may find you're missing all the rest

well she run up into the light surprised

her arms are open

her mind's eye is seeing things from

a better side than most can dream

on a clearer road i feel

oh you could say she's safe

whatever tears at her

whatever holds her down

and if nothing can be done

She'll make the best of what's around

Dave just gets life. Some people simply make every situation great, no matter what, even when it has every reason to be horrible. Some of my favorite life memories include getting dumped, , barely getting in to a dave concert, running in the pitch black up the canyon, and almost passing out during a marathon--Meg just makes every circumstance fun, no matter what. Even when bad things happen, she still will always make "the best of what's around." I love ya girl, miss you much. Come home please!

Love, Heath Dawg

2008-06-28T20:17:00.000-07:00

Anyone who knows me well, knows I love the elderly. A lot. I learned this about myself in high school when my friends and I volunteered at the Courtyard at Jamestown Assisted Living Center. We would usually visit a few ladies every time we were there and always left laughing at all the funny things that happened. Some of my favorite memories of high school were made in that building-- from all the butchering of names, (Camden = "Captain," Kirsten = "Susan") to all the funny moments (one time one of the ladies opened her door completely nude...(Hanette I know you have not forgotten that one), and especially singing around the piano with one of our favorite ladies Meda. All through college I chose to work at Jamestown as well at a Senior Day Care Center based on these positive experiences I had, and I absolutely loved doing it. I loved being friends with elderly people--they brought so much joy to my day and I always felt like I was helping them and left a positive influence on them.....

Something has happened and I don't know what. Here's what I'm figuring out though: FOR SURE I will never work at a nursing home. I mean, definitely. There is a world of difference between dependent vs. independent living as far as transportation, hygiene, personality, etc go. I'm starting to realize that the reason I loved volunteering at Jamestown so much was a) they were for the most part coherent b) they kept themselves nice and clean and c) I didn't have to really take care of them so much as visit/talk with them for a little while. My internship is anything but this. Don't get me wrong, they are wonderful residents, but I feel like my spirit and passion is dying (don't tell my grandma). I don't know--something is simply not as "fun." I'm starting to think I don't want this as a career at all. I think it's a fun hobby, or a nice volunteer opportunity on the weekends, but a job? Not so much. It gave me great memories through high school/college, but perhaps my time is passed and I need to move on to a different population (besides kids, and besides teenagers....middle-aged?) Isn't life interesting in that way? Just when you think you've got yourself figured out...

2008-06-21T12:00:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: I'm not trying to sound mean, just.... informative I guess.

I am honestly dumbfounded at the diets people go on. Let me present a scenario to you, and for fun let's count every mistake we find in it.

My internship supervisor quit smoking a year ago and consequently started gaining a lot of weight so he went to the doctor and was put on Diet pills, which would supposedly suppress his appetite. (mistake #1). The doctor then told him everything he can and cannot eat to lose weight. Well, he lost 30 pounds in 30 days (mistake #2 even though it sounds great) but still needed to lose more. The other day we were at Costco getting some food for the residents and he wouldn't take a sliver of the whole wheat bread sample because he is "entirely off breads" (#3). He has told me how hungry he gets throughout the day, so I asked him what he eats for breakfast, to which he replied an apple but he is not "supposed" to eat apples because they are high in carbs (#4). This is where I had to bite my tongue and smile a little. You have got to be kidding me. For fun I asked him what fruits were "allowed" and he said the only fruit he can eat is strawberries...but mixed with walnuts because it breaks down fat faster. ??? (#5) Ok let me go ahead and fill in the rest for you. At every morning meeting he eats the leftover sausage and bacon from the kitchen (#6), and when I kindly suggested that may have something to do with not being able to lose more weight--he said that his doctor told him it was good to be eating that much protein in the morning. (every morning??) He is not allowed to eat after 5:00 p.m (#7). but if he wakes up hungry in the middle of the night, he can eat as much chicken as he wants (#8). No carrots, corn, potatoes or any other high-carb food is allowed (#9-???).

Are you finished laughing? It took a few days for me. This is ridiculous. I have personally licensed myself a dietitian seeing that this is the level of skill I will be competing at. I am shocked at the lack of information, albeit common sense people have with their food. I mean, Carrots! What has happened to moderation. What has happened to exercise? To a balanced diet? Surprisingly enough, my supervisor has great difficulty following the rules and often gives in to cake and cookies at work. Is anyone else tired of these absurd diets? I'm sorry but you cannot simply "cut out" an entire food group, nonetheless 3. And don't get me started on diet pills...

I must be a nutritionist! I need to map out a diet plan for people...more along the lines of "dieting for life," instead of 60 days. More than anything, I would love to teach people the correct rights and wrongs of dieting and food choices. I am not saying I know a lot now, but my gosh... if this is where we're at today... I can't have too far to go.

Gwyneth vs. Kirsten--you tell me.

2008-06-18T18:57:00.000-07:00

Alright, the time has come to talk about this issue.

At least once a week, anyone from a close friend to a co-worker to the checker at the grocery store tells me I look like either Gwyneth Paltrow or Kirsten Dunst. Now, personally I don't feel like I look like either of them very much--occasionally I can see a resemblance. I know we all have similar features--blondish hair and fair skin, but beyond that I'm not seeing it so much, although I do not mind being compared to Gwyneth Paltrow! I just think it's weird--it honestly happens ALL THE TIME. Especially after one of them has done a big film (think Spider Man summer of Freshman year).

So be honest friends, is it Paltrow or Dunst...or neither.

Here are your visual aids:

Gwyn

....or Kirst

You be the judge,

It's all greek to me.

(I've always wanted to say that)

The Law of Attraction

2008-06-16T19:40:00.000-07:00

"Our job as humans is to hold on to the thoughts of what we want,

make it absolutely clear in our minds what we want,

and from that we start to invoke one of the greatest laws in the Universe,

and that's the law of attraction.

You become what you think about most,

but you also attract what you think about most."

-John Assaraf, "The Secret"

I love this quote...most of the time. Not right now. I believe it, I agree with it--but here's my question:

What if you don't know what you want?

Lately this question seems to invade almost all my thoughts. What do I want? The problem is, my vague answers are constantly changing and I never get anywhere with them.

Here is the dilemma:

1. I think I want to establish a career, out on my own

2. I think I want to get married

Within each of these choices come many, many more questions.

1. Career

What do I want to do? Who do I want to be? Could I really be a recreation director? Would I be happy doing it? Do I want to pursue that profession in Texas? In Utah? In Australia?? Should I "test it out" and see if I like it for a few years and then go back to grad school or should I not waste any time and go straight to school? What would I want to get my Masters in, Dietetics? And then maybe I could kind of pioneer a profession and combine recreation therapy with it? Would I really like it as much as I think I would? Should I move to a big city and live on my own? Where would I go? Boston perhaps?

2. Marriage

Is this something I should really start seriously thinking about? Do I really want to get married or do I just think I should because most Mormon girls my age are? Am I ready to get married? Mature enough? Would I be happy married at this stage in my life? Would I make a good wife or would I not like having a husband? Do I feel old enough? Would I regret it? Would I feel like I "gave up" on my dreams?

Now obviously I'm not close to getting married right now, but I could be within the next few years. The thing is I'm not sure if it's really what I want. It sounds nice, but it also sounds really nice to scare myself a little and do something very "un-Heather-like" such as move to Boston, or Seattle, and live by myself. I would love to start running marathons regularly, travel with friends to Europe, possibly start playing at small bars or cafes (this one would be many, many years down the road). SO much of me wants this. I've loved living in Austin this past month. I love having an internship and learning how to be in charge, and the feeling of advancing towards something and stretching myself....I feel like living here thus far has given me a small taste of what I could do if I chose to pursue it. Anyway, I realize that these decisions are not entirely one way or the other. Even if I did get married in the next 3 or 4 years I could still have a career, etc. But that's not how my heart looks at it. I want to feel passionate about something and run with it. I would love to find a job in the next few years that makes me really happy, and could support me through grad school, and start climbing up a career ladder. A lot of the time I think that this is what I sincerely want...but it also scares me (Ok I guess I lied on my 3's post under "fears"). I don't want to start something only to realize that I made the wrong choice and feel like I was limiting myself and not reaching my full potential. Can you see why I'm having a hard time "attracting" what I want? I guess this is what people refer to as being "indecisive." I've never known myself to be so "wishy-washy." I don't like it.

P.S. I hope I haven't offended anyone with this post. Everything stated is situated to my current circumstances. Please don't take anything personally!

Dad-Sick

2008-06-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate Lynn W. Davis's Birthday. He will not be reading this because he doesn't use the internet, but I still wanted to post all the reasons I love my dad. Today also marks one month since I've been in Texas and I haven't felt homesick until today. I miss my dad! I think I have the greatest dad in the world and I wish I were home celebrating this day and tomorrow with him.

My dad is the most impressive person I know, for many different reasons. If you've ever seen him in court (it's ok if you have), you will agree that he is extremely proficient in his profession. He's also this way with the gospel, which I'm grateful for. Whenever I ask him a question about something he immediately knows the answer and can back it up with scripture. Somehow I missed the inheritance of this trait.

My dad is a blast to be around. (Sisters--(Aj if you read this), you know what I'm talking about. Missing Coin Collection?). Whenever I'm with my dad I know I will be entertained. I love all his funny quirks like in high school when he would come out to water the plants at midnight if i was outside with a boy. There is never a dull moment with him.
My dad taught me to love the outdoors. Let's face the facts--after years of T-Ball, Coach pitch, swim team, and Soccer--you'd think I would grow up to be quite the athlete, but I really am not. However I am (thankfully), not afraid of the outdoors. Thanks to all the campouts, hikes, bike rides, river raftings, and other various explorations he's taken me on, I have proven myself a true "outdoors girl."

My dad is a friend to all. This is perhaps the greatest quality I admire in him. I will admit that sometimes I'm embarrassed when he honks everyday at the homeless man Dennis on University Avenue, but when I stop back and really think about it, it gives me great joy to know that my dad really understands the value of each person. He is accepting of everyone. For this reason, he has friends scattered everywhere.

My dad is a wonderful father. He hasn't ever let me down and I know he never will. He supports me and trusts me just as a father should. Last month when my landlord forgot to inform me that my housing contract was not over, I was so upset. My dad took matters into his hands, gave up many of his lunch breaks, and helped me work everything out. He has done numerous acts similar to this throughout my life. Everyone who meets him, loves him--everyone. I'm so proud to know him as my father and can only hope to have people know and love me the way they know and love him.

Happy Birthday and Father's Day Dad, I'm so lucky to have you.

3's Tag

2008-06-05T18:44:00.000-07:00

joys:

1. The 5:00 drive home.

2. Running. Always.

3. Winding down to the sound of Michael Scott before bed.

fears:

I can honestly say I don't have any! Cool huh?

goals:

1. Write a song. Just one--that's all I want from myself.

2. Figure out what I want to happen after my internship is through.

3. Train for a triathalon.

current obsessions:

1. "Black Rock" --O.A.R.

2. Anything Carbonated. It's terrible and not encouraging my body for Goal #3.

3. Scrapbooking. 3 years of college down, 2 to go.

random, surprising facts:

1. I really like big, gaudy wedding rings. I always pretend like I hate them though because everyone else does. There, my secret is out.

2. I absolutely love driving in my car by myself. It's one of the greatest feelings to me.

3. I am pretty sure I have ADD. I was thinking about this today at my internship. We went fishing, fun right? After 20 minutes I was bored out of my mind while everyone else continued the fun for 3 hours more. I get this way about a lot of things.

If you want to do this tag, go for it.

Oh Yeah, I made it to Austin.

2008-05-30T21:40:00.000-07:00

I am here! Texas is fabulous. It's about time I find a place where it's always warm, right?

Here is what you've been missing out on:

Allison and I journeyed the 21ish hour trek together. Highlights included sporting these hats as we crossed the Texas border (thanks Mom), talking talking talking, the Lesbians that were somehow at every rest stop as us, and just being with my sister. Never a dull moment with her.

A momentous occasion in my car's life.

I had to stop and celebrate.

She has been very good to me these past 2 years.

My newfound Alarm Clock(s).

Much more enjoyable to my ear than beeping.

Lake Austin.

Here's a taste of the home you will find me living in one day.

Love this little girl.

I have loved spending so much time with London and Madelyn

(and of course Les and Ryan too).

My hair is also at her curliest

(not pictured for obvious reasons). So fun.

It will be a very busy summer, as my internship starts Tuesday,

and my job starts whenever I can find one

(the internship is not paid).

I'm excited to get in and get it over with!

Ok, I'm only half kidding, it should be a good experience,

but the real fun has been being with my family.

I've missed them dearly.

2008-05-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

I am SO Happy for D.C.
And I think Archuleta is genuinely happy for him too.

2008-05-11T22:59:00.001-07:00

Yellow Fever

The only one who didn't get the memo was Jocelyn--too bad for her, it's so fun to match both of your parents. It reminds me of when we had to all wear matching yellow polos for a family pic which I believe we sent out for the christmas card--not our best year.

2008-05-09T20:25:00.001-07:00

Going Granola

(I love Claire's curls)

Here is the latest and greatest with what's going on amidst work, saying goodbye to friends, cleaning out my room, and trying to find cute summer clothes for texas---I do not wash my hair anymore. You heard me, I'm done. Well, for a week at a time anyway. I have limited myself to one wash per week and here's why: Your hair simply does not need it. I have never been a believer in washing hair every day but recently read in self (or fitness or women's health...one of those) that your hair really does not need to be washed as often as you think, and it's healthy to have natural oils in your hair. Also, when your hair is a little oily, it looks more shiny and smooth. So I experimented. I still rinsed my hair out about 3 times during the week, and conditioned once, but that's it. Result? My hair felt exactly the same. It didn't feel dirty or oily at all. Now, I realize hair types are different and respond differently-- most likely the reason why my hair can stand this is because it's so curly. I also realize that a lot of you are probably disgusted over my newly discovered hygiene habit, but I encourage you to try it anyway! skip the shampoo for a week and see what you think (and let me know). Also, it will save you some $$$.

2008-04-30T18:19:00.000-07:00

The Best of College

Well, my BYU experience has come and gone. I can't believe it's been 5 years. Wow, so much has happened. Isn't it crazy to look at who you were freshmen year and then look at the person you've become?
It has definitely been a positive change for me.
Anyway, here it is, the best of college!!

I met Brittany Gagon (Talbott). We lived together for 2 years. I adore this girl.

I also adore this girl. I met Jodi Leynse (aka G) freshmen year. In fact, she was the first person I met at BYU! We have been such great friends all 5 years!

I also met Mal Pal (Mallory Thue Grover). As you can tell, we did everything together before she got married.

I also met some fun boys who I still just love to pieces.

I went to Mexico and never felt uglier. But had a great time doing service.

Some new additions were made to our family, London and Madelyn.

I went on some wild adventures with some wild friends.

I saw a lot of good friends get married!

I found a great job and fell in love with many elderly people.

I dated some interesting boys.

I lived with a 51-year old Catholic Korean Professor. That's all I'll say about that.

I went to Hawaii a few times: once for school and once with the family.

I found the greatest job at the Morgan Senior Center which helped me realize I wanted to change my major to RMYL--Recreational Therapy.

I went to many many concerts.

I met this girl. Meg and I have been through everything imaginable together these past 2 years.
Best Friends Forever.

(Of course there are many many more, but I don't want my blog to be overwhelmed.) I would never trade my college experiences for anything. There were definitely ups and downs (mostly ups) but I am so grateful for everything I went through, it has definitely made me a strong person and I know these experiences have prepared me for the future. Looking through these pictures, I realize that the best times were the times I spent with people--from my wonderful family to the people at my job to the greatest friends a girl could ask for.

I feel incredibly blessed.

Here's to the Cougar Life!

2008-04-22T17:31:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LESLIE ANNE DAVIS BARLOW!!!

Leslie is one of my favorite people, and here is why:

She will talk to you for as long as you want
She is the only person I know that can manage twins as well as she does.
She is an amazing violinist.
She lets you steal her babies whenever you want to (not literally steal)
She will dress up in crazy Halloween costumes with you
She has always been a good example to her four younger siblings
She will always go shopping with you
She is letting me invade her apartment this summer
She is an incredible Wii bowler
She can always make you laugh!
She is the best person to dance the Huki La'au with!

I love you Les
I hope you had a great birthday
I will be there in (if all goes accordingly on the road) 26 days!!

What's Yours??

2008-04-08T20:43:00.000-07:00

Tonight on American Idol the theme was "Inspirational Songs." All the contestants got to choose a song that has a lot of personal meaning in their life. So fun! Isn't it interesting how a song can mean so much to one person and nothing to the next?

Anyway, it made me think about what song I would pick if I were on the show. I figure they have to be pretty classic songs in order to perform them.

Here are my top 5 choices:

Time After Time (Cyndi Lauper)
Landslide (Fleetwood Mac)
Forever Young (Rod Stewart)
Let It Be (i'm in love with Brooke White's performance of this song, beautiful.)
Fields Of Gold (Sting and the Police)

What song(s) would you choose??

#139 and #140---BFFs!!

2008-04-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

That's what the announcer said as Meg and I crossed over the finish line holding hands. Provo City Run 13 was a blast!! Well, kinda. It was freezing and so windy most of the time, and my iPod died after exactly 1/2 of a song, but it still was a lot of fun. Meg and I stayed together the whole time, and fed each other motivational quotes along the way. Our legs started to give out by about mile 9, but we hung in there and finished strong! Also, we saw Kirsten, Josh, and her dad there which was really fun. Way to go!!

Before

After!

A couple noteworthy moments:

1. Literally 30 seconds into the race, a larger man turns to his friends and says "Guys, I'm already winded," to which his friends started laughing, and then he says "No, I'm serious guys." We didn't see him after that, hopefully he finished.

2. The man that ran next to us a good deal of the time that sounded like he was about to die-- which, in turn, made me feel like I was about to die. I had to listen to my breathing and tune him out multiple times to ensure that I was fine.

Anyway, I love 1/2 marathons, well, the 2 that I have done. I am dumbfounded how one goes from a 1/2 to a full, but I'm determined to figure it out, hopefully within the next year or so. (Does anyone know if there are 3/4 marathons??)

RUNNING = LIFE

Moab + Mountain Biking + My favorite boys in the world

2008-03-30T21:32:00.001-07:00

This weekend was such a blast! My friends took me down to Moab where we went mountain biking in Slick Rock Canyon. Ok, I do not know about you, but I seriously did not realize how difficult this sport is. I mean, it's just biking, but in the mountains, right? Wrong. Oh my gosh it is so hard! My physical strength was definitely put to the limit. (My legs and butt and pretty much every other muscle in my body can attest to this today). It was honestly one of the hardest and scariest things I've ever done, and that includes skydiving! I quickly realized that I'm a baby when it comes to riding down big hills--flipping over my handlebars is not something I'm necessarily eager to experience. Within the first two minutes, I took a decently bad fall and everyone (including myself) was thinking "ok....it is going to be a long day." Luckily that was it though! Everyone told me I did really well, considering that it was a "technically advanced" course which they failed to tell me until about mile 2, also considering I hadn't been on a bike in about 10 years. I had to walk a lot (both uphill and down) but was really proud of myself in the end for keeping up with the boys. I will tell you that a 10 mile run is extremely different from a 10 mile bike ride in the mountains, just FYI in case you ever go! It was also one of the funnest (i know that's not a word) things I've done in a long time.

Caleb and me are so excited.

Moments before the big ride

[side-note: is it just me or are boys just always tan]

The boys getting ready for the hill ahead.

Moab is so beautiful. Fun huh!!

DJS. I love this boy.

My car is put to the limit. I was proud of her.

I love challenging myself physically, and this definitely did the job! Who knew I would love mountain biking so much--it was seriously so much fun. Moab '08!!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-23T23:40:00.000-07:00

Easter was wonderful this year. I went to my parent's ward and loved singing and listening to all the Easter songs. Allison and Spencer came over later and we had a huge dinner. Then, since no kids were here, we had an easter egg hunt for the dogs in the backyard. Bronco won, Tucker came in second, and Zoe didn't ever catch on but we love her anyway.

Today I also finished the Book of Mormon, and was so happy that it worked out to finish on Easter. What a great supplement to celebrating Christ's resurrection. One of my favorite verses is in Moroni 9:25

"Be faithful in Christ...may Christ lift thee up, and my his sufferings and death, and the showing his body unto our fathers, and his mercy and long-suffering, and the hope of his glory and of eternal life, rest in your mind forever."

I hope everyone had a great Easter too!

Just A Heads Up

2008-03-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

{Hey Everyone}
I saw 27 dresses this weekend--loved it, despite how incredibly cliche it is.
Anyway, I'm about 99% sure I'm supposed to marry James Marsden.
A look-a-like will do though.
So if you see a man who resembles this,

Send him my way. We'll both thank you for it.

Concert Journal

2008-03-16T00:14:00.000-07:00

I have always loved going to concerts, it really is one of my favorite things to do. I love being in crowds and singing along to good bands and seeing live performances. The other day I realized just how many I have been to!!-- in the last few years especially, so I decided to write them all down. Enjoy.

In no particular order:

Jack’s Mannequin (1)
Straylight Run (2)
Colbie Caillait (1)
Taking Back Sunday (1)
Brand New (1)
Dave Matthews Band (4)
Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds (1)
The Format (5) ☹
Dashboard Confessional (1)
My Morning Jacket (1)
All-American Rejects (1)
Boys Like Girls (1)
SheDaisy (1)
Motion City Soundtrack (1)
The Fray (1)
O.A.R. (2)
Tim McGraw (2)
Faith Hill (1)
Peter Breinholt (too many to count—over 10 for sure)
Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband (probably about 4)
Dixie Chicks (1)
Emerson Drive (1)
The Rocket Summer (1)
The Fray (1)
Brooks & Dunn (1)
Kalai (3/4—not as good as you’d think)
Sherwood (1)
The Aquabats (1, and 1 too many)
NSYNC (1. My first concert)

And I wonder why I never have any money.

Scheduled: JimmyEatWorld (April 14!!)

Wishful for:
The Police ( I would die to go to this in July, can you believe they’re doing a tour and actually coming to Utah?)
Bon Jovi. For some reason, I started listening to him at about age 10…loved him ever since. That would be an awesome concert.
Steve Winwood—my guilty pleasure. I’ve always loved his stuff and would pay big bucks for his show.

Regrets:
Damien Rice @ UVSC. What was I thinking.
Iron & Wine in Salt Lake. Again, what was I thinking.
Celine Dion. I always wanted to see her show in Vegas. Too late now. SO SAD!
Garth Brooks: I would have died to see him in his prime.

We'll see what the summer in Austin brings, apparently there is a big music scene down there!

Tag, I'm It!

2008-03-06T19:16:00.001-08:00

5 years ago I was... a senior in High School, getting employed by my Stake President at Great Harvest Bread only to be fired 3 days later, getting ready to go to Washington D.C. with my parents, trying to figure out why I got accepted to BYU and if I wanted to go there, and loving all the time I spent with my friends.

5 months ago I was...loving every minute of October! Lots of blind dates were happening, Meg and I went on some crazy camp out with exchange students from the Ukraine, and I always smelled like the Anatomy lab.

5 things that worry me...not being able to figure out what I really want to do for a career, permanent shin splints, all my hair falling out due to the overuse of my straightener, gas prices (so annoying!), and one of my alzheimer's clients getting hit by a car when they wander off.

5 bad habits...sleeping in (although I've definitely improved since High School), overestimating how much money I have, eating a cookie whenever I see one, being late to class, church, and work, and not listening in class (although you wouldn't blame me in some of them)

5 of my favorite places I've lived...Provo, S-Hall DT (demolished fyi), Hampton Court, Old Mill, and Hampstead Condos. (I have also lived in Hawaii but the living conditions do not qualify for one of my favorite places I've lived in)

5 of my greatest blessings...the gospel, my Dad, my family, my friends, my health.

5 things in my virtual shopping bag...How about 5 things I have to buy even though I don't necessarily have the money for them. JimmyEatWorld ticket, 1/2 marathon registration, red tankini from Shade Clothing, light denim cuffed shorts from Alloy, and the perfect square tee in pink from Anthropologie (ok i might have to find the knock off version of this one).

5 of my favorite things to blog about...friends, clothes, concerts/music, current events, and family.

5 people I tag...Meg, Jodi, Leslie, Allison, and Kristen-L-S.

Jazzing It Up!

2008-03-04T14:46:00.000-08:00

Last night my roommates Jenna, Lindsay and I went up to SLC to try and scalp Lifehouse tickets. We had no idea the concert would sell out! Luckily I'm an experienced scalper--however my skills were useless at the Depot. There was absolutely NO one selling extra tickets! We looked across the street and saw that there was a Jazz game going on at the Energy Solutions Arena, so we decided to try and get tickets to it. We were successful, our Jazz scalper was fair, and we had a blast at the game (oh and we definitely beat the Mavericks!) I am ashamed to admit that this was my first time seeing them, but I've always wanted to and definitely plan on going to more games!
Recognize this guy?? We met Jeff Hornacek!! Oh my gosh I was psyched!! When I was in 6th grade I was obsessed (I mean sneaking out at three in the morning with Courtney Nelson and spray painting "GO JAZZ" all over the neighborhood sidewalks, obsessed) with the Jazz. This was when they went to the finals against the Bulls (their prime days) and Jeff Hornecek was one of my favorite players. He was so nice to us, and not so bad looking either. Go JAZZ!!

Girl Power + Joshua Radin

2008-03-01T14:05:00.000-08:00

My friends (jodi and Hilary) and I went to the best concert Thursday night--Ingrid Michaelson!! Remember during Christmas break when i was burning everyone copies of her CD because i loved her so much?? She was such an awesome performer, and here's what I loved most: No boys on stage during her entire set. Now don't get me wrong--I love the male species just as much as the next girl, but there was something so cool to me about this girl that gets up on stage with her backup singer/guitarist, no band needed. I don't see that done a lot and loved it! She inspired me so much to just sit down and start playing. I especially loved when she played "Fools Rush In" on the piano. Look it up on YouTube, it is SO pretty. Anyway, then Joshua Radin performed and I liked his music a lot too. He was a kinda depressing person though and made a reference to his recent breakup in between every song. So sad. Anyway, great concert!

2008-02-22T22:33:00.000-08:00

This just in:

Jimmy Eat World comes to the McKay Events Center on April 14th.

COUNT ME IN. I have waited YEARS to see Jimmy. WOOOOO!!!

Jodo--we will have a blast and we will be on the front row--believe you me
but we will NOT have any loss of hair or earrings (think All American Rejects) this time.

2008-02-22T16:48:00.000-08:00

Let me preface this post by saying I do not think I am that great of a runner and I am not trying to sound like a know-it-all! Ok, lately it seems like a lot of my friends have been getting more into running--good for all of you!! Isn't it the greatest?? A lot of you have asked me for advice--flattering considering I have only ran one 1/2 marathon. I do want to give out a few pieces of advice though. Last summer when we (Meg Allison and I) ran our 1/2, we basically had no idea what we were doing (no offense guys), how to train, whatnot. Now I know a lot of people think "well what's there to know...you just... run" but that is simply not the case. When your mileage starts increasing every week, you really need to take precautions and make sure you're taking enough care of your body so that nothing bad happens. All 3 of us did pretty well, but there were definitely some minor injuries that could have been prevented. So, I recommend this book: The complete book of Running for Women. I think I bought it for $4 on Amazon.com. What I like about this book is that it's neither too advanced or too basic. You don't have to be majoring in exercise science to understand it, but at the same time it gives really practical and useful advice you probably wouldn't recognize on your own. Mostly I focus on the injury prevention section--they are so common and can be entirely avoided for the most part!! It also talks about the importance of strength training which I definitely need to be better at. Anyway, I don't know if this will help any of you or not, but there you have it. Buy the book and KEEP RUNNING!!

Don't Judge

2008-02-18T12:42:00.001-08:00

i know no one is into high-waisted jeans, but I AM!!
i absolutely love these, i think they are just perfect--maybe in 3 years i will have enough confidence to actually wear them. Until then, I will continue to admire.

P.S. I got bangs!

2008-02-17T17:20:00.001-08:00

No regrets! after 3 1/2 years of growing these babies out, here's where i'm at today--i LOVE my bangs.

An update on Brother

2008-02-16T21:38:00.000-08:00

Many of you know my brother, AJ. He is currently serving a mission in Bulgaria, and will be home late this summer! Lately I've been thinking about him a lot--Aj is the the only brother with four sisters, and we couldn't be more grateful for him. One of the most unique qualities about him is that he never gets mad, I mean never! Wouldn't that be so cool? He is also one of those people that everyone admires and wants to be like--perfect qualities for a missionary. Last sunday, the man that AJ baptized awhile back ended up in Provo Utah (he is American) and so we had him over for dinner. It was such a great experience to hear from someone firsthand how he is doing in Bulgaria. This man, Spencer talked so highly of him and it just made me so proud to have him for a brother. I know it would not be easy to be where he's at, and it takes a lot to walk with your head up everyday and be optimistic about what you're doing, but he keeps going, no matter what!

The Tortoise and the Hare

2008-02-13T21:28:00.000-08:00

Tonight, seeing as it was snowing like crazy, I had to resort to the BYU track to run. I do not do this by choice, and I do not enjoy this. I haven't been running for a long time, for a few different reasons, mostly just lack of motivation. Ok so here's how it went down tonight: I get to the track, it's more crowded than usual (snowing like crazy), so I jump in and start going, quickly finding myself being passed.....I mean passed by a LOT of people. Mostly those cute BYU girls in their super cute outfits. "it's ok, you're just warming up, you're good, just getting back into things" (I hope I'm not the only one that talks to themselves in the 3rd person). Then there's always that flock of guys that FLY by you going about 30 M.P.H and you better as heck not be in their way---no, I never let them get my spirits down. "it's ok, you're a distance runner, remember? you don't ever need to be that fast." Just as I've reassured myself that everything is in fact, alright with my pace, this BEANPOLE strides past me--the back of his shirt reads "I KNOW I'M SLOW, BUT HEY, I'M FASTER THAN YOU." Ok, by this point I was not saying nice things to myself. Is that not the most demeaning shirt? I mean, come on! This guy was pretty much lapping me the entire 35 minutes at the track! All the while, I was feeling very self-conscious as I felt like literally everyone was staring at me. Do you ever talk back to people in your head? Like, "Ok, I know I'm slow, but you don't have to be mean" "I know my workout attire is not that cute tonight," or "Yes, I realize I have a ghetto iPod." So after Bean Pole, fit and stylish girls passing me, and feeling self-conscious, I trudge back to my car only to find-- Oh, my hand is covered in dried blood. Oh, that's because I have a dried bloody nose. "Oh that's probably why everyone was staring at you, Heather."

Ok so here are the facts: I'm out of shape, I did not realize this, but thanks to a snowy day at the BYU track, I am taking serious measures from here on out. I'm talking it's GET INTO SHAPE--CRUNCH TIME. Here is my fitness complaint that is driving me nuts though: you get into really good shape by August from working really hard all summer--by February you are back to square one. It's like you never look that bad, but you never quite get to "great!" Does anyone have any tips for me for breaking this cycle?? Well, that is my vent for the night, and FYI, next time I see Bean Pole you can count on it that he'll go red in the face when I'm lapping HIM!!

Tell me this is not real

2008-02-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

The worst thing has happened: The Format have broken up!! I didn't believe it for about an hour, I really thought it was some kind of rumor going around. Then I read on their website a note from Nate (lead singer) about how they are going their different ways and how they'll always support each other in everything they do, no matter their differences. It is really vague and makes no sense and I just can't imagine really never going to a concert again. I started crying when I read on the website that they're done. They are making such a huge mistake--they seriously were just starting to get places with their music. I feel like a part of me is empty knowing they no longer exist. What a HORRIBLE thing to happen.

Nate, thank you for writing music that makes me passionate. Thank you for your lyrics, your unique sound, your individuality. You will be dearly missed.

2008-02-09T23:08:00.000-08:00

I went into Forever 21 a few days ago and fell in LOVE with these shorts. I went to try them on and stayed in the dressing room for about a half hour wishing I could own them! If I were tan, and shaved my legs, I guarantee you would see me in these shorts every day this summer. They are SO cute. Ok people, don't judge me if I end up having to purchase these.

Adidas Girls

2008-02-09T19:22:00.000-08:00

I know a lot of people complain about Provo, but for what it's worth--where else do you find a place like the Provo Canyon?? Even in the winter, you run up the trail and instantly feel rejuvenated about life. I really don't know what I'll do when I don't have access to this place.

Don't we look like we should be in an Adidas ad??

Meet My Future!

2008-02-07T16:37:00.000-08:00

If any of you saw me today, you probably noticed I am just a bit happier than I have been the past few weeks. Here's why: I GOT AN INTERNSHIP!!! I have been stressing about this situation for the past 5 months--here are some basic reasons why: I had no clue where I wanted to do it, the majority of places don't have a certified therapist on staff (which is required by BYU) and they are very competitive. When my sister Leslie told me she was moving to Austin, my first thoughts were "I should come!" A little easier said than done....but after 5 intense weeks of not knowing who to call, where to look, how to go about this whole things, my prayers were answered and here you have it: I will be doing my internship at a nursing facility in north Austin Texas called Gracy Woods II. The CTRS (certified therapist) told me over the phone today that I got the internship for the summer!! WOO!!! I was in tears by the time I hung up the phone, this has been one of the most frustrating processes I have ever gone through--and today it seriously just all fell into my hands. My boss is so so nice, and really funny and extremely laid back (yes, i gathered all of this in the 20 minutes we talked on the phone). So anyway, whenever I hear the word "internship"--a headache accompanied by nausea will not proceed anymore--now I'm just really really excited to get started out there--Austin, Here I COME!!!

Here is where I'll be at according to the website:

Doesn't this look fun?!

STAND UP

2008-01-29T14:12:00.000-08:00

"I am not a politician or a poet. I built my career on words that are plain and ordinary and concerned with everyday details. I am nothing more or less than a hotel manager, trained to negotiate contracts and charged to give shelter to those who need it...I only spoke the words that seemed normal and sane to me. I did what I believed to be the ordinary things that an ordinary man would do. I said no to outrageous actions the way I thought that anybody would, and it still mystifies me that so many others could say yes." --Paul Resesabagina

One of the neatest experiences happened today. I knew Paul Rusesabagina, best known as the hotel manager in Rwanda that saved thousands of lives during the genocide in 1994, was coming to give a forum at BYU, and I was so excited--but I did not anticipate actually getting to MEET him. I was walking through the bookstore before the forum to, of course, get some food, and I saw him out of the corner of my eye signing books! It was very brief, but he signed my book and I told him that I was honored to meet him and he said it was a pleasure to be at BYU. Later on my Dad and some friends met me at the forum and we got to sit on the ground floor 3rd row!! We were so close to him, and it was so cool to be watching this man in person talk about this incredible experience. What I love about Mr. Rusesabagina is how humble he is. He is not out to say "look what I have done, look how many lives I've saved." Instead his focus is on being placed in a situation where he had the opportunity to help and do something. His message was perfect, he said to STAND UP. Stand up and do what's right, stand up and do something about what's going around you that you can change for the better. Oh my gosh I just feel so blessed to be at a school where such an amazing man such as he would come and speak. (Later on I got a phone call from my dad saying he got to personally speak with him for a long time and Paul gave him his business card....ok, why did I go to class). I just want to echo the words of Paul Rusesabagina and encourage everyone to stand up for changing what needs help in making the world a better place--find what YOU can do to make a difference.

Our Beloved Prophet

2008-01-28T09:55:00.000-08:00

Last night while I was at a fireside, I heard the news that President Hinckley had passed away. Everyone sat in silence for a long time and then we started singing "We Thank Thee O God For A Prophet." It was a perfect place to be, and I had this overwhelming gratitude of all the amazing things Gordon B. Hinckley has done for the church during his presidency. He has been the prophet ever since I can remember! All through my high school years and most of college as well. What I will remember most about President Hinckley is his eternal optimism, his "be a little better" attitude, and his overall zest for life. He will be missed dearly by all.

“I hope you enjoy this work. I really do. Notwithstanding all the problems, this is a work of happiness. This is the good news! This is a work of joy! I hope you can laugh and smile and be happy and rejoice before the Lord over the great opportunity that you have to serve as a leader in carrying forth the work to the world wherever you may be assigned to go.”

R.I.C.E

2008-01-26T23:02:00.000-08:00

"Morning everyone. Don't freak out, I forbid anybody to freak out. Clearly I have had a very serious accident, but I will recover, God willing. I just want to be treated normally today, normal would actually be good, considering the trauma that I've been through."

We all laugh at Michael when he grills his foot.... but the fun and games are over everyone. Tonight we had a similar injury in our apt. Meg and I were mopping our kitchen floor via "chugging" when Meg took a serious spill. She went down and it did not look good people. I immediately put her on R.I.C.E.-- the universal cure for any and every injury (Rest, ice, c.....elevation). She is doing ok. Recovering quickly. Her protuberance is going down, and she should be fine within the next few days. Seriously though, when you see her--no special treatment, just treat her like you would any normal day.

2008-01-25T22:34:00.000-08:00

It has been a bittersweet week at the Davis household. As most of you now know, the Barlow family will move to Austin, TX tomorrow morning, 6AM so we've been spending as much time with them as possible!! MLK Jr. Day was spent with the girls making cookies-- pretending we're dogs, trying on old hats, the us (usual). I will miss them all dearly.

Why I Love One Tree Hill

2008-01-20T22:57:00.000-08:00

Now, normally I do not get that into teen dramas, but let me tell you what gets me into
One Tree Hill: the MUSIC.
I'm serious--whoever's job it is to pick the music for this show has the best taste. Almost every episode, If I don't already have it, I find myself going "I MUST find that song" and will go look it up. It's so much fun for me--lots of times i come across artists that i would normally NEVER think I would like at all.

If you're going through a music drought--which I tend to go through a lot--go watch a few seasons of One Tree Hill and I bet you you'll find something you like--plus, you can't help but get way too invested in the storyline.

Here are a few of the songs I've found from watching the show if you're interested in what I'm talking about:

1. You'll Ask For Me--Tyler Hilton
2. Two--Ryan Adams
3. Burgundy Shoes--Patty Griffin
4. Start a War--the National
5. Philosophia--The Guggenheim Grotto
6. Mercy--Black Rebel Motorcycle Club
7. Tuesday's Gone--Lynyrd Skynyrd (yes, Lynyrd Skynyrd... it has a really cool piano solo)
8. World Spins Madly On--The Weepies
9. For Blue Skies--Strays Don't Sleep

P.S. Thanks to Meg for introducing me to OTH

First Week Back = Success!

2008-01-13T16:31:00.000-08:00

Surprisingly....I had a great first week of school!! I think it will be such a great semester.
Meg and I hit up Starbucks mid-week for some hot chocolate and cake.

Our New Roommate, Michael.
Meg vents to Michael after a tough day at school. He's such a great listener.
This weekend Meg and I went to visit my sister Allison and her husband Spencer out in Saratoga Springs. Just because I started school doesn't mean I didn't find time to watch an entire season of Lost on DVD. We had fun scrapbooking and testing out the new 4-wheeler out in the mountain. It was a blast!!

Come and Gone

2008-01-06T17:08:00.000-08:00

I'm always a little sad when it's time to go back to school. It's been such a fun break this year! I worked a lot, but I enjoyed it, I got to see a friends I don't see often, and of course--spending a lot of time with my family for the holidays. I just have to keep telling myself "It's just ONE more semester, ONE more." this is the last time i will have to go through these school-starts-tomorrow-and-i-don't-wanna-go-back emotions.
I love coming home to this house. It's so pretty with all the lights up.

It was so fun to see all my roommates from Hawaii during finals week. We always laugh so hard about all our experiences there, especially ones of our landlord yelling at us for doing ANYthing, like putting the blinds up.

My friends get prettier every time I see them.
Old Friends. Louie Jean and Me.

2008-01-05T21:55:00.000-08:00

Something I have been meaning to do....well for a long time is SCRAPBOOK. I literally have not tended to this hobby for years and years. After awhile I started thinking--well obviously I just don't like it because I never make time for it. But that is not the case! I guess my main complaint is that I felt like I couldn't get started until I had all the pictures I wanted...but since that is nearly impossible, I finally just got together as many as I could and printed them all out...and here we are. I made my first page tonight while watching the debates. Here are my newcomer scrapbooking observations:

1. It is FUN!!
2. It takes a lot of time
3. It is expensive
4. It is WORTH IT.

I really loved doing this page tonight and I plan on doing a lot more soon, even though it does take some time. I think it is such a fun hobby and I admire people who do it well (i.e. Kirsten and Jodi!)

Pizzeria Seven Twelve

2008-01-05T17:18:00.000-08:00

Today my friend Jodi and I wanted to go somewhere different for lunch. We had both heard about this place called Pizzeria 712 and heard good things about it but we had no idea what we were in for--this place is amazing!! I'm sold.

We didn't realize how big our "personal pizzas" would turn out to be. Enough to feed a family of 4 comfortably...but no complaints. More for me later. I ordered the Speck pizza with soppressata which is this really good sausage. I would definitely recommend this place.

Dream Big

2008-01-03T17:48:00.000-08:00

Today at work I asked the clients what their New Years Resolutions for this year are. One lady said she wanted to lose 25 lbs. (She is SO skinny!) Another man said he wanted to learn 3 new languages. Now, granted this is coming from a group of Alzheimer's patients, but it made me realize how much life I have ahead of me and how much I want to do with it. So, like many of you, I have decided to put down some goals of mine for this year.

1. Get the best grades possible for my last semester. (This does not mean a 4.0)
2. Read my scriptures every single day no matter what!
3. Write one good song on the guitar.
4a. Run a marathon (or two 1/2 marathons...this is probably the wiser choice)
4b. Get a 6-Pack. I figure one of these goals will proceed the other or vice versa.
5. Start my 401K
6. Don't say mean things about people

Keep it growin'!

2008-01-01T22:07:00.001-08:00

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So...for the past month i have been on the verge of walking into supercuts SO many times and telling the stylist to cut it all off and give me bangs. Luckily I have refrained. All through the break i have been really productive in catching up on movies (don't rent Failure to Launch) and tv series. (I finally got into Lost again and I can hear the cheers all around!!) What I have discovered is how much i really just love long hair-- and every time i see a girl with long hair it makes me want to keep growing mine. Now i'm not saying i don't like short hair at all or that i will never cut mine. I'm also not expecting to look like Evangeline Lily when my hair gets as long as hers. But for now, I'm keeping the tresses long!! I know everyone has been so concerned about my hair decisions, that's why I put this post up.

Davis Family Fun Night @ Asukas

2008-01-01T19:36:00.000-08:00

Every year on New Year's Eve the family goes out to eat somewhere. This year we chose Asukas, a Japanese Restaurant--which is kind of funny considering no one in the family will even go near sushi. But it was really fun. The waiter comes out and cooks the food right in front of you. Flames 5 feet high at one point!! My favorite part was when Dad said "I'm going to branch out and try the chicken." No, I take that back--my favorite part of the night was when the waiter dared me to catch shrimp in my mouth that he threw at me....it landed on my eye. New experience for us for sure.

Sorry for the blurry pics, still trying to figure out the new cam.

Why I Love The Format

2007-12-31T00:00:00.000-08:00

The Format. I have SO SO much respect for this band. They are hands down my favorite, as I have been to 5 concerts in the past year and a half (which, if you ever have the opportunity to do, i HIGHly recommend it). Let me try to get this out as best as I can. The Format started out with two best friends, Nate Reuss (orange shirt) and Sam Means (beard)--Nate the vocalist and Sam the multi-instrumentalist. Their first hit-naturally called "the first single" took off and they caught the attention of tons of major labels. Soon after, their first album came out (Interventions and Lullabies). In a nutshell, their record label, Atlanta Records basically started telling them what songs to write and what would make the most money. Most bands probably would not be thrilled to be told what "style" of music to write, but they would most likely still do it. The format, on the other hand, drops Atlanta Records, and produces their second album "Dog Problems" themselves. They didn't want to conform to what everyone "wanted to hear." They wanted to make their music genuine and original. Which it is, and which is what makes them so great. They break the mold and introduce such a refreshing sound. I mean, talk about Nate's voice, it is so unique and just-- incredible. What is SO cool is how many fans they have despite all these problems. In a way, it made the fanbase even stronger because everyone wanted to support them in producing their own album. And they know it, they know how supportive their fans are and always acknowledge how appreciative they are of their fans.........I love Nate Reuss so much. If I ever have the chance to meet him, I will literally DIE, i am not kidding, I really will. He is one of the hardest workers and has done so much for this band--they have gotten so far over the past years because of him. They've toured with names such as Yellowcard, Something Corporate, and Jimmy Eat World, i mean HUGE names. His songs are so heartfelt, most of his lyrics have this underlying theme of forgetting the past and becoming the person you want to be, he's such an optimist, and so passionate with his words. He has such talent with his lyrics, I seriously have no idea how someone comes up with such clever lines!! Some of my personal favorite songs are "Tie the Rope" "The First Single" "On Your Porch" "Give It Up" "If Work Permits" and "Swans." But all of them are simply amazing. I know this sounds weird because I don't even know them, but I am so proud of these people, especially Nate--wow, i seriously cannot describe how much I admire this man. He really just makes me realize that you really can make anything happen for yourself if you want it bad enough. I mean he had every reason to give up but instead pushed through and look at how far he and his band have come! VIVE LA FORMAT!!

P.S. check out their new DVD "Live at the Mayan Theatre." it is a blast to watch.

This is me with the guitarist from the format, Mike Schey. He is the coolest guy and have you ever seen me happier??

New Year = New Bod

2007-12-30T19:44:00.000-08:00

I know this probably sounds really vain, but my new year's resolution is to get a six-pack by next December. More than anything, I just want to prove to myself that I can do this and acquire the self-control to achieve one. Thanks to a years subscription to both Self and Fitness magazine (i always seem to get conned into things like this) I have all the resources needed. 2008: Here I come!!

Wish me luck everyone!!

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

2007-12-30T11:54:00.000-08:00

Nothing beats a dance party on your bed with the two cutest girls ever!
Word to the wise: Don't introduce two-year olds to Usher's "Yeah." The girls did not appreciate him as much as I thought they would.

My New Vest

2007-12-29T22:33:00.000-08:00

After looking at my friend Kirsten's blog, I decided I had to put in my two cents about our shopping experience tonight. I convinced her to buy skinny jeans, and she convinced me to buy this vest. I wasn't sure about it at first, but now I LOVE it!! Thanks for the fashion advice Kirst.

Christmas

2007-12-28T22:52:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone, welcome to my blog.

I will jump right in to how Christmas went.

Christmas morning would not be Christmas morning without Dad's fresh squeezed orange juice. Consider yourself lucky if you ever get to try some.

While I usually do not appreciate the snow....I allowed myself to be content with it on Christmas. The backyard looked beautiful.

Christmas morning walk with the dogs. Here's Zoe sporting her new pink sweater from Santa.

We were so excited when the Barlow family came!! Here is Madelyn playing with her new baby. I love that girl!

Group Shot. My new camera is Great! the best part is that I don't have to turn it off and back on between every shot like my old camera did near the end.