.

All About Davis!

2011-08-05T14:02:00.000-06:00

It is very true what they say...once you have a baby, your life completely changes. Our life has changed for the better for sure. For those of you who don't know (and who don't see all the many many pics I post of Davis on Facebook..haha) we had a baby!

I am a little late posting this obviously, but it's ok because "I just had a baby."
PS That phrase has become one of my favorite excuses for everything!
I know I'm fat, but I just had a baby.
No I can't go workout, because I just had a baby.
Sorry, we cant make it to the reunion in Timbuktu because I just had a baby...etc etc :)

Anyhoo..the story about Davis' birth was pretty uneventful. I was terrified to actually HAVE the baby, but it wasn't all that bad. I had to get induced because he was 1 week late. It took about 10 hours for the drugs to get me to a 10 so I could push him out. I don't know what everyone was complaining about when they told me the pushing was the worst part. They lied. The pushing was the BEST part! All I wanted to do was push! :) I won't bore you with all the gory details, but he arrived into our lives healthy and crying!

At 9:11 pm, he came into our lives weighing 8 pounds, 3 ounces and 20 inches long. Davis Ryan Haggin was finally here! These first few weeks have been crazt, amazing, stressful at times, tiring, but mostly they have been full of joy!

Today he is 6 weeks and 5 days. It really is bananas how fast time flies. I am lucky enough to get to stay home with him and see all the fun stages of his life. He is finally starting to coo and smile instead of just being a cute littl blob. Ty and i get so excited when we make him smile. Its the little things right?

We love him sooooooo much and cant wait to have plenty of adventures with him.

Here are a few pics of him that I love! He has SO MANY FACES!!

First pics of D taken by our friends Bryan & Rachel

Love this! This was the Photo of the Day on the website Spearmintbaby.com

About 5 minutes old..

First Car Ride home

Davis & Daddy time

First sleep smile..

Mommy & her monkey

Just chillin'

Look who can sit up!

He finally likes bath time! YAY!

All smiles!

Due Date is here!..but Davis is not!

2011-06-14T10:44:00.000-06:00

Today is D-day...or..it's supposed to be! But alas, no baby is here. I am not really that surprised, because I haven't been making any progress lately. He just really likes it in there I guess! So I am trying to enjoy my last few days (hopefully not weeks) of being pregnant and just having some freedom! I know he will come when he is ready..but I just want to meet him already!!

I do have his room pretty much done though, which is a huge relief. Now all it needs is a baby and lots of cute newborn pics to fill it up with!

So until he comes, I am going to sit in his nursery and convince him how awesome it is in there!

It'll be interesting to see which comes first..the baby or my 27th birthday on Thursday!? We shall see!!

The amazing bedding my friend made for me!

I love the deer with the tube socks..it makes me laugh :)

All the cute clothes

Chalk tags!

Owl hat my cute Mom gave me

The sign I made..I love this poem

Six More Weeks....

2011-05-02T17:26:00.001-06:00

That's right, people..I'm going to be an official Mom in 6 short weeks! Yikes! I was just saying that I have been pretty spoiled with how easy this pregnancy has been. I must have forgotten to knock on wood, because the last week has been pretty painful! My back is aching EVERY day, feet and hands are swollen, I am all of a sudden nauseous every day (food does NOT sound good), and sore pretty much everywhere.

Come to find out, I have a kidney infection! Boo! I had to go to InstaCare at the urgent nudging of my hubby, because I didn't want to be a baby having a baby!! It's really a good thing my husband worries more than I do. So, I've been down and out for the last couple of days just resting and taking antibiotics. It feels like a really bad case of the flu and it's no bueno! Especially when I am in "nesting mode" and am trying to clean, prep and decorate the house and the nursery...Grrrrrrr..!

Hopefully, it won't be horribly terrible for much longer. I am just at that stage where I am READY READY READY for him to be here! Also, we still don't have a name picked out..but here are the frontrunners..

Davis
Henry
Lucas
Asher

Any favorites? Help! Let me know!!

PS...we finally got our new washer/dryer..and I have to admit, I have never been more excited to do laundry! Who knew appliances could be so pretty? Yay!

Mi Casa es Su Casa...

2011-04-20T12:05:00.000-06:00

Really! Come on over! We are absolutely in LOVE with our house! We waited and looked a long time to finally find the perfect house for us. My initial thought was I was going to have the house decorated and everything would be decorated perfectly in a month...HA! That obviously didnt happen. I have been a little busy trying to prepare for this baby boy (coming soon in June-eek!), family stuff and other life things that have taken priority over the house. However, I have a LOT more done than I thought I would and I am beginning to feel like its our home, not just a house..which makes me very happy! So I thought I would post some pics of what it looks like now just so those of you who wanted to see it can see it!

Front of House

Kitchen

Dining Room (with the table and chairs we repainted and repurposed! Love!)

Living Room

Master Bedroom

Master Bath (hard to see but there is an amazing shower and big tub)

Family Room

Baby's Room

(loooong way to go still)..but at least the crib is up!

The Man Cave..and Bella's

Half Bath

LOVE my Laundry Room..so roomy!

Full Bath Upstairs

(soon to be taken over by Baby)

Backyard/deck

It needs a lot of work still but there is a slide off the deck

that I can't wait to see our little guy use!

Also..I just have to say that I love this guy! We have been together 7 years now! He makes my life so much better every day. He has been the most patient, loving husband ever while I have been pregnant. He has bought more baby clothes than I have and he is going to be a great Dad. Love him!

At Long Last....

2011-02-13T10:03:00.001-07:00

We have so much to be excited about right now! January was by far the craziest month I have ever encountered so I am looking forward to March when things will get back to a more normal state...

A short list of the things we did/accomplished/stressed about/finished....

.....Traveled to Cabo San Lucas for Tyler's work! What an amazingly beautiful place. Being almost 5 months pregnant, I couldn't really do THAT much..which was fine by me. Laying on the gorgeous beach and soaking up the 80 degree weather was absolute perfection. We ate and played and ate and layed around and ate and had an amazing time! It was an awesome "babymoon."

.....Found out we were not going to get the house we had been waiting on for 4 months. We were super sad, but two days later, we found the house of our dreams! We put an offer in, it got accepted a day later and we were off! We closed February 3 and have been busy cleaning, packing and slowly moving stuff over. I am trying to take it as easy as I can, but I just want to be MOVED over there already! We are beyond thrilled. I am just excited I get to decorate a nursery for Baby Haggin (and no name yet either, so he is officially Baby Haggin until we figure out one..HELP!). We are moving to Draper officially this next weekend and couldn't be more excited. After we get in and get settled, I will post more pics of the new Casa! For now, this is what it looks like from the outside :)

.....Have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of this baby! He is kicking and moving and we are in love with him already!

We can not be more happy about all the good things happening right now. We are SO INCREDIBLY thankful for everything...we feel like we are checking lots of things off of our "to do" list and it feels great...we can't wait to see what happens next!

It's BLUE!

2010-12-18T07:41:00.000-07:00

Blue as in..we are officially having a baby BOY!! We couldn't be more thrilled. Ty and I both wanted a boy...although I was a little more low-key about wanting a boy than he was (he says things like, "Oh man, I can't wait to start forming our basketball team)!

I have to say, going into this, I haven't really felt "pregnant" until yesterday when we went in to find out the sex. But once we saw him on the sonogram, I couldn't help but get a little teary-eyed. It hit me that it was MY BABY in there, jumping around, sucking his thumb and showing us his most prized possession - his little weinee ;). It was amazing to see and we can't wait to meet this little guy in person!!

Only 177 more days to go!

...and a Baby makes 3!

2010-12-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard by now, we are PREGNANT(well I am, he is not :)! We couldn't be more excited!! I am even more excited that I have been soooo lucky and have not had any sickness what-so-ever. We are 13 weeks along and due in June..right before my birthday!

Tyler has already been out to Babies R Us and Target (by himself, on his own free will mind you) and bought oodles of baby clothes. Love him for that! I, on the other hand, have not been shopping at ALL!

But...I have been browsing online at nurseries and trying to get a theme of what I like. I have way too many ideas! We don't know whether it will be a boy or a girl yet, but will find out soon! I can't help but oogle over all of the girl rooms that I have seen. If it's a boy, I am going to have a harder time designing a room!

These are just a couple of the nursery ideas I like so far....

My Obsession With Etsy

2010-11-14T08:58:00.001-07:00

To say I am obsessed with Etsy is a HUGE understatement. I could spend countless hours and hours on this site. For those of you who have never heard of Etsy.com, let me just tell you that you must visit there. MUST MUST! It's a marketplace to buy and sell anything handmade or vintage. You can find some amazingly great things. I have bought numerous gifts for friends, jewelry for myself, vintage posters, and plenty of other goodies! I have to share my obsession with the world! Phew...I feel so much better now that it's out in the open :)

Here are a few things I am drooling over at the moment:

This 'love' pillow is so cute! (and only $35!)

I want these Vintage Posters for my new kitchen!

How adorable would this French Print be in a kids room!?

This oversized scarf looks so cozy..and it comes in any color your heart desires!

I already have two sets of these earrings and I love them! (and at $15 I can afford to get a few more)

So if you haven't already been bitten by the Etsy bug, I suggest you check it out! And let me know if you find anything I might want too :)

Halloween Time!

2010-11-05T17:52:00.002-06:00

We love Halloween time! This year both of us dressed up. Bella was a Ram, I was a "Shake Weight Instructor" and Jenna was a 60's Star Child Hippie. We ended up seeing a scary movie, Paranormal Activity 2 (which Jenna did NOT WANT TO SEE), carved Pumpkins, ate homemade chilli, gave some candy away to trick-or-treaters and..ya know..did the whole Halloween Sha-bang during the month.

Things we learned:

1. The Shake Weight is a legitimate workout tool. You look ridiculous, really ridiculous, but its tough to keep it going for a full minute.

2. There is a prime age for trick or treating. If they are too young, they can only do a few houses before they are ready for bed. Too old they are kind of obnoxious, less proud of/invested in their costumes and more proud of the weight of the pillowcase they are using as a candy bag. There is a meaty center of children ages 3-8 where they are still cute enough where they are genuinely excited for one piece of candy, but haven't learned how to talk back yet if it's a Bit O'Honey and not a full size Twix they got a house in the next neighborhood over.

3. Carving Pumpkins is funner than we remember. For some reason the extent of my creativity as a child was just making the smile a little crooked on my Jack O' Lantern. This year we went outside the box and did some fun ones.

Jenna also made treats, some Zombie cupcakes and homemade Oreos. So, overall it was a pretty fun October/Halloween time.

Bring on Thanksgiving.

My New Hobby!

2010-10-16T13:57:00.000-06:00

I found myself a project...and it's going to take a little longer than I thought. Tyler's Grandma & Grandpa gave us these old chairs and one bench that they had in their house. I was so happy! I needed new chairs for my new kitchen table I was buying! So I have decided to sand, strip and repaint them all! So far, I have done 2. After I am done repainting it all, I am going to make cushions too! Phew..wish me luck!

I think they look great with my amazing new table! What do you think?

BEFORE

AFTER

NEW TABLE/CHAIR

I'm a Crafty Little Fox...or trying to be at least!

2010-10-07T18:49:00.000-06:00

I have started making these wreaths that I am obsessed with!! I don't know if anyone else likes them, but I really do!! I made the felt flowers and I have put them on shirts and headbands too..I think they are so cute. What do you think?

In other news, we put an offer on a house that we love, but it is a short sale and we have been waiting, waiting, waiting....so hopefully one day we will get to move in and I will get to show you all the "re-do's" I will be doing on furniture for our house. So excited!! I love me some good crafty fun!

2 Year Anniversary!!!!

2010-08-16T21:09:00.000-06:00

Our 2 year wedding anniversary is on August 22!! I made Ty a cheesy video of our awesome life together. I gave it to him a little early because I just couldn't wait. I know it's silly, but it makes me happy to see how much we have done and how far we have come as a couple. I love him more today than I did the day I married him. Happy Anniversary Ty!!

Wasatch Back 2010!!

2010-06-22T07:56:00.000-06:00

So, this weekend was the Wasatch Back 2010, which is a 12 person relay race that goes from Logan to Park City. This is my second year with this race, and it was awesome. Our start time was about 1pm, and we finished in about 32 hours. Our team was made up of some of my really good friends Van 2: Bryan McCracken, Kyle Hansen, Ben Franz, Brad Hansen and Zach Hatch and myself, and Van 1 was mostly Bryans family, but all of them were awesome. Behold Team Witness the Fitness (WTF for short)

My first leg started about 10pm, and was my easiest leg by far. In the dark we had to run with reflective vests, flashers and head lamps. Our first legs in our van took us from Liberty City Park up to Snow Basin.

Our Second Legs started at the top of East Canyon, took us around a few reservoirs (Echo and Rockport) and were our longest runs. Mine was about 8 miles, Bryan had about a 10 mile run around Echo. We handed off to Van 1 and tried to get some R and R before the last legs. At the final exchange they had free Chiropractic alignments, and deep tissue massages, which is exactly what I needed. I have been nursing a sore hammy for the last couple months. I will give our first Van a lot of credit, they had some rough run times, where they were running in the heat of the day and pushed through it all.

Our last legs picked up at Rocky Mountain Elementary in Heber City, and took us through Guardsmans Pass, to the finish line in Park City.

Bryan on the first leg of "Ragnar" which climbs over 1400 feet in elevation in 3.5 miles, and yes thats a dirt road. We were running a lot of runs with a team from Ebay - "Ebay it Forward", which was really motivating to have someone else to run with. This is Bryan with an Ebayer Paul.

These are from my leg of Ragnar, leg 34. Yes, I know I look very skinny, I lost a total of 8 lbs training for this race, and I was skinny to begin with. It's hard to describe Ragnar, but the closest thing I can imagine would be to go running on a beach, turn that beach onto a 45 degree angle, oh and to account for the lack of oxygen at that level, go ahead and have someone stand on your chest. All in all I did it in about 50 minutes, which I am proud of.

We finished abut 9pm on Saturday and everyone was in good spirits. Its definitely a challenge, but I will be back for more next year. I have another Ragnar Relay next month that goes along the coast of Washington State. No Mountains to climb there, I don't think.

Other pictures from the run:

Bryan running around Echo Resevoir

Us at the first major exchange in Liberty City Park

Zach making the pass along Rockport

Ben running up a pretty steep hill on his second leg

Ben hanging out by Echo while we wait for Bryan to pass, about 8am

After brads first run, about 9pm at night

I HEART JUNE!

2010-05-25T18:30:00.006-06:00

I have been M.I.A. for a while..I know! It's only because I have had nothing interesting to blog about. Everyone has so much going on and I just haven't been that exciting lately. However, my blogging friends have all been mad at me for not posting anything..(I didn't really think anyone paid attention to our blog anymore)..so this is the best I could come up with!

There is a couple of things I absolutely LOVE in my life..well there is LOTS..but there are a few things that I just can't help but get uber excited about! JUNE...is one of them. Ahhh how I adore the glorious month of June. Here's why:

1. MY BIRTHDAY! Hello! :) Although, this year I WILL be 26! Yikes! When did I grow up! But it's still a birthday, and still a party and I love it! I want to do something really fun this year--so if any of you have an awesome idea..lay it on me!

2. It's the first official month of Summer! Everyone is happy, playing outdoors, the sun is shining, the birds outside my bedroom window are chirping, I get pedicures every other week, I can finally run at night without freezing/frostbite, I get to play tennis with my hubby....ah the list could go on and on!

3. Well, this June is a really special June for ONE REASON....Tyler gets to QUIT Discover Card and get home at a normal hour! He has been waiting 8 years to leave this place and just have one job, not two! He is beyond thrilled - and so is his wife! I can't believe June 1st will be his last day. I can't wait! Congrats Ty for making it this long working 8am-9:30pm for 3 long years! You DID IT!!

(P.S. on this one..I might have to start cooking for him now since he is home at 5..hmmm..wait....I dunno if I'm ready yet!)

4. School/Work is over for the Summer! The best thing about teaching is that June 4 is the last day! I get an actual Summer! I can't believe it. I feel like a kid again! What am I going to do with all of my free time!? What, I ask you - WHAT!? I have a couple of projects already lined up. I hope they turn out - cause if they do..I will be beyond excited! I'm going to CRAFT/DRAW/PAINT people...so watch out! :)

5. For those of you who don't know..MAY is MUSTACHE MAY at Tyler's job..and May being almost over, I can not wait for June to come so he will shave that weird-thicky-creepy-cop-mustache off! Yay for June!

Oh! And CONGRATS to my sister Court and bro-in-law Taylor for finally getting the keys/move in to their amaaaazing new home!

Me on Moving Day..I look GOOD!

The Williams' New House

Run Jenna...Run!

2010-04-01T07:34:00.000-06:00

It's that time again. Time for Tyler to run Ragnar in June and time for me to be running with him. Oh how I long to be able to run 7, 8 or 9 miles so effortlessly like my amazing husband can. Oh how I wish I could glide up and down our neighborhood with the greatest of ease like he does. Try as I might, I can never get into running like I want to. I wish I was one of those people that just ran for "fun." Alas, I am not. However, I am going to make it known that this year I am trying my hardest to PRETEND I am a runner. I will run with Tyler as much as I can and see where it gets me. By the end I hope to be like all you fantastical runners out there who motivate me to whip past you and leave you in my dust.

Ty even bought me new running shoes - the little darling (I got the hint, I got it!). I must say they are the greatest running shoes I have ever had. They are the Reebok Runtones..and they actually work! They are cushy and feel like you are running on air. Also, my thighs, calves and tush are always sore the next day after my run..which has never happened!

Here we go......

Time for a Vacation!

2010-02-23T20:45:00.001-07:00

We sure have been busy bees the last couple of weeks! SO MUCH happiness and craziness!

Last week we ventured to California. I'll give you a brief recap of what we did there..we got to go and see so many things (we really didn't rest for more than two seconds).

Disneyland and California Adventure --- We heart this place! Our favorite rides this year: The new Toy Story 3-D Carnival Ride and Tower of Terror. There is always the oldies but goodies too like Alice in Wonderland and Space Mountain.

Universal Studios --- A lot of walking, and running up about 400 stairs from the bottom to the top! The Mummy ride is also the scariest ride ever..pitch black and backwards!!

Sea World --- You have to love Shamu and the crazy trainers they have - who wouldn't love to do that for a living!? I mean, come on!

San Diego Zoo --- That zoo puts our Hogle Zoo to shame! I've been there before, but I didn't remember how big it was! Once again, a LOT of walking. The Koala's are my favorite - so cuddly!!

Mission Beach, San Diego --- We ventured to the gorgeous beach..my MOST favorite part of California. I tried to convince Tyler we should move here, but alas, he denied me my wish..Don't worry, I'll get him one day!

Sunday was my Dad's 51st Birthday. We planned a surprise party for him at my house. Our family never does surprise ANYthings - so needless to say, he was shocked. We lured him to our house with this phrase, "Uh, Dad, the water pipe looks like it broke and it is leaking into our basement." The look on his face (see pic below) is priceless..boy was he happy when he realized all his kids were there and ready to celebrate.. instead of having to fix a broken pipe and basement full of water. Gotcha Dad!!

All for now, tons more to come in our lives I am SURE!!

L-O-V-E-L-Y

2010-02-07T12:56:00.001-07:00

Love is in the air.
It's official.
V-Day is coming up.
Alas, we will not be home for the occasion.
We will be in California LIVIN' IT UP!
So, before we leave...
A few things I made to remind my husband he doesn't get the day off..
just because we are in another state.

If he hasn't been hit in the face with it yet, he is about to be. Just lovely.

Smelling the Barn...

2010-01-28T09:34:00.002-07:00

Just to explain what "Smelling the Barn" means. Basically, when you take a horse out riding when you are on your way back the horse can smell the barn when you get close. So, it means that we are getting close. To what? You ask. How about the Magical World of Disney, Universal Studios, Sea World and San Diego Zoo. Looking forward to it for sure. I am going to Anaheim for work on Sunday and getting back Wednesday night, but then get to go right back to Anaheim a week later, this time for some much needed R & R.

If its good enough for Speidi, its good enough for me...

--Tyler

Pants on the Ground...

2010-01-16T18:33:00.000-07:00

American Idol is BACK. The best part are the audition weeks of course. I always have my favorites...So far the winner is..the "Pants on the Ground" guy. If you haven't seen it...I posted the link below. Tyler and I think it's super catchy. He is definitely giving Lady Gaga and all her catchy tunes a run for her moola. ENJOY!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMwhl4IrPNc&feature=related

GNO!

2010-01-06T16:24:00.000-07:00

I finally got to go out with my best girlfriends after what feels like forever! There is nothing like a good Girls Night Out to make you feel FANTASTIC!! I have been a little down in the dumps lately and I couldn't seem to figure out why. I blamed it on the weather, the low of the "after the Holiday Season" blues, all the FOOD I ate over Christmas break, etc. But there is something about hanging with your Besties that just makes it feel like all is well with the world again! I had so much fun girls! We need to do it again soon! Muah!

Jen#1 & Jen#2

Me & Meggie B-W!

Nessy

The Bobbi Girls Reunite!

Also, I want to list a couple of my 2010 Goals. I refuse to say "New Years Resolutions" because those never seem to stick very long!

1. Get back in shape and get my lazy bum to the gym!!
2. Learn to cook really well so I amaze my husband with my culinary skills. (I think he feels jipped that his wife didn't get the culinary gift)!
3. Save more and spend less!

Those are just a few..I am doing well so far!

A New Job...AGAIN!!

2009-11-27T16:21:00.000-07:00

So, yes I have another job. I think this one is going to STICK this time! I have had 5 - yes 5 jobs - in 2009! I am going to have quite the taxes to deal with next year. I just decided I am not going to stay in a job I dislike..it's not worth it. My hubby was super nice and let me kind of try out, quit and leave a couple jobs. For that - he is the best husband ever. Anyway, this new job is FANTASTIC!!

Now, I work for the American Preparatory Academy (a Charter School) as a teacher/instructor. I teach 3rd Grade along with a co-teacher, Mrs. Jones (the kids call me Mrs. Haggin which is still super duper weird to me. Haha!) It is kind of like a "get your foot in the door until you finish going to school for teaching" job. The kids are so fun and crazy at the same time. It makes me really want to be a teacher that much more. I also have a couple of friends that I know there already and that makes it easier too. I love love love it a lot already and I am actually HAPPY when I come home from a day at work..which is a totally new experience for me. A happy wife = a happy husband.

Love all of you! I hope you have a fantastic beginning of the Holiday Season!

Jenna

The First Sign of My Christmas Spirit...

2009-11-15T14:57:00.002-07:00

Besides the fact that we got SNOW last night - and a WHOLE TON of it to boot - the first sign that I actually do have a little Christmas Spirit has shown itself. In the form of Gingerbread houses. Last night, my two awesome girl friends and I made Gingerbread houses. Not just any houses...MANSION houses. Let me just say these Gingerbread Men are living the good life in these ones! It was so much fun. Bethany's Mom has these great molds to make these huge houses and they were so much fun to decorate! We spent a good five hours on them..our hands cramping up from squeezing out icing...our faces and clothes were covered with frosting...the candy was all but gone (some eaten and some put on the actual houses)...then we finally got to see the fruits of our labor...glowing lights and all! We had a blast! Thanks girls for a fun night! See the gorgeous (we think so) results below...Yay for the Holidays!

Ashlee's Mine Beth's

October Madness & Halloween Hijinks

2009-11-01T14:50:00.003-07:00

October absolutely FLEW by! Actually, come to think of it..so has this whole year. I can't believe it's November 1st!! Woweeee. The last couple of weeks have been completely insane. We have been running around like mad people. Working, hanging out with friends, hanging out with family, going to parties and baking, cooking and baking some more. I have baked my little hands off (literally, I have burns to prove it) but it has been worth it! I know I said I would take pics and post them..but I seem to have forgotten that. I promise I HAVE been cooking though - ask my hubby - he is one happy man. He will say things like, "Oh so THIS is what a wife is like." Ha Ha. And then I hit him with my spatula. It's all in jest - don't worry :)

We went to a Halloween party last weekend with some of our friends. I personally am not a big Halloween fan. For 2 reasons. One - I hate spending money on a costume that I'll probably never wear again. Two - I eat all of the candy before the trick-or-treaters even come to our door on Oct. 31. (Total bags of candy bought this year to replace the ones we've eaten - 3). Tyler decided to MAKE his costume this year. I was a lot nervous about him using needle and thread to handsew his costume together.. He lovingly, painstakingly made full fledged Bear Arms (he is the Second Amendment by the way which is the "right to bear arms"..get it? Bear Arms?) Ha well he thought it was HIL-arious..so I went along with it. They turned out great, don't you think? Pretty dang good for a guy..or a girl for that matter!

And I...was just a lumberjack. I bought a $17 shirt and a $4 plastic axe and I was golden. We had a lot of fun at the party!

On Halloween, Ty really wanted to go to the Real Playoff Game. So we went - he was SO SO happy I would go to a sports game of any kind - and it was really fun. They scored ONE GOAL which I thought was pretty great considering every time I watch soccer they never seem to do anything but run up and down the court..or is it field? :) Then after we came home and gave candy to our maybe ten little witches and spidermans and threw a little party at our house. It was a very fun, relaxing, low-key Halloween. Just how I liked it!

I do have one recipe that I made that I will share with you. To get you into the Fall spirit. It absolutely will warm your tummies...and it's super EASY! I hope you like it..let me know what you think!

Yummy White Chili (serves 6)

2 cans Chicken or Turkey (I used chicken - I think it's better)
1 can Chicken Broth
2 (4oz.) cans Green Chillies
2 (15oz.) cans Great Northern Beans
1 c. Sour Cream
1/2 c. Vanilla Yogurt

Seasoning:
1 tsp. Salt
1 tsp. ground Cumin
1 tsp. dried Oregano
1/2 tsp. Pepper
1/4 tsp. Cayenne Pepper

Directions: Drain & Rinse beans. Drain & Shred Chicken. Combine all ingredients (except sour cream and yogurt) in a large soup pot. Bring to a boil and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes. Stir in sour cream and yogurt and heat through.

Eat and Enjoy!!

Happy Holiday Season! If you all have any recipes to share as well..please do!!

It's Fall Y'all!

2009-09-28T18:39:00.003-06:00

It's the most wonderful time of the year! I love Fall!! Everything is so colorful and pretty. Ty and I are planning to drive up the canyon and see all of the leaves change. We do it every year and I never get sick of it! I love the pumpkin patches, my Mom's yummy Cider, the crispness in the air, everything!! The only bad part is that I know once Fall comes..Winter is lurking it's ugly head around the corner..and worst of all..SNOW! Boo to snow.

In other news, I quit my job a couple weeks ago. I am enjoying a MUCH needed break from working while I'm going to school. I am going a little looney NOT WORKING - since I have been working since I was 16! I am still loving it. It has given me time to make dinner for my hubby, get things done, start some fun projects and I am much happier! I think I could get used to this..I doubt my hubby enjoys that statement. :)

P.S. I have some fun Fall decorating ideas and recipes that I'm trying out too. If they work out, I will post them and show you the results!

1 YEAR!!

2009-08-26T12:16:00.011-06:00

So Aug 22nd was our one year anniversary, and I have to admit it has flown by so fast!

We woke up and hiked up to where I proposed to dig up a Time capsule. Our goal was to go up there once a year and put new pictures and stuff in it. Well, we got up there, and our rock where I had written "Marry Me!" was still there and had the writing on it still, it was pretty cool. Well we dig up the capsule, and the bugs had eaten away the plastic we had it being preserved in, so water got in and ruined everything, so we are going to have to get a metal capsule this time, one that can stand a Utah winter in the mountains.

We then went to Sanctuary in Fashion Place Mall for massages. I can kinda see why Jenna likes these things so much. Man after working so many hours a good massage is a wonderful thing. We were pretty tired and just wanted to stay in the rest of the night, so we just had a movie night.

Good times.

Things Tyler learned from year one:

1. It's ok that Jenna is right sometimes (as much as I hate to admit that)
2. If having a baby is as much fun as having a puppy, then I might be ok with it sooner.
3. Life is good, just make sure those around you know how thankful you are.
4. I hate Carlos Boozer more than ever.

I am looking forward to MANY MORE YEARS with each other!

Tyler

On a side note I thought this was really funny... Bella is pretty adamant about getting a new bone and ripping that thing to shreds. We challenged her to a bone that is about as big as her. She's had it about a week, and I think she is just about to where she can enjoy it. Its been an uphill battle this bone.

GROWN-UP BED

2009-08-16T11:58:00.002-06:00

I just HAD to post a pic of my new bed. We broke our other one..no not the way you might think (ha!). We searched for 2 weeks and finally found one that we BOTH could agree on. It's from Black Goose Design and I LOVE IT!! Thanks Ty for letting me get a semi-girlie bed.

A small glimpse...

2009-08-09T15:31:00.005-06:00

Wow! It was been WAY longer than I thought it was since my last post. Well! I don't have a ton of time to write a big long blog..but I will give an brief *SYNOP* of what we have been up to!

We have been vacationing in Bear Lake for the last couple of weekends, which has been very needed. Just boating, relaxing and eating OH-SO-TOO-MUCH food! But I say - it's the weekend so who cares, right?

Also, my sister, Courtney got married on June 26 to Taylor Williams! It was a really fun day and they were such a cute couple. It rained most of the reception, but we made it fun and DANCED our little butts off! We all huddled under this Gazebo and partied until they drove away! It was a blast! Congrats you two!

If you hadn't heard already, I had to find a new job - something called a "layoff" I think? :) HA! So I am now working downtown for a lawyer. It is not my dream job - I will just say that - but it pays the bills..and we all know how that goes. Ty is loving his job and I am super jealous..but ONE DAY I will get there. Hence the reason I am going to school! It is hard work!! I just registered for Fall and I am taking some good classes so it should be a great semester!

We are also coming up on our ONE YEAR anniversary on August 22! I can't believe it! I am so happy that Ty and I have each other. We have gotten each other through some rough times - but we always, always pull through and he is the BEST!!!(Alright..enough GUSH, I promise) We are going to celebrate and go to Zions for our anniversary. It should be goooood times for all!

Other than that, we are just truckin' along..enjoying every second we get to spend with each other and our family and friends!

All for now...HAVE A FANTASTIC END TO YOUR SUMMER!!

J

Real Life...At 1:45...

2009-06-25T13:56:00.011-06:00

So, I have noticed that all my friends/family who have a blog always talk about all of the FANTASTIC, GREAT and AMAZING things that are going on in their life. Which is all fine and dandy - heck..I am guilty too.

But I think that every once in a while, people need to see the REAL LIFE moments that happen every day. The not-so-exciting stuff. We give off this perception that everything in our lives is just perfect. When, let's be honest..we all know they aren't. So - for today, I thought I would tell you what was happening in my REAL, EVERYDAY LIFE. These are all of the happenings that went on at 1:45 on a Thursday afternoon.

At 1:45 the dirty dishes were still in the washer...

At 1:45 my dog was whining at the door to go outside and go potty while I was trying to get ready...

At 1:45 the clean laundry was still in the dryer begging to be folded and put away...

At 1:45 I realized I am in desperate need of a pedicure...

At 1:45 I looked at my unmade bed and said..too bad..I am not making it today!

At 1:45 I had 3 papers, 2 quizzes and 1 very unnecessary "reflection" to write.

And at 1:45 I realized I need to get my booty in gear and get everything done! So, of course I will still write about all the fun things that go on in our lives, but I think every once and a while we need to remember that life is not all roses and peaches and enjoy the mundane, everyday things that happen in our lives!!

Hope you guys enjoy this! :) I know I did..

YOU DID IT!!!

2009-06-22T20:59:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to write a quick post to say CONGRATULATIONS to my hubby for finishing RAGNAR!! You did amazing and it was so awesome to see you cross the finish line! I am so proud of you. You make me want to run it with you next year..almost.

Busy, Busy, Busy!!

2009-06-15T18:33:00.004-06:00

Well it has been a whirlwind of things happening the last month or so. I hope I can keep this brief! I am going to tell you the top five fun things we have been doing lately:

#5. Courtney's upcoming wedding! Courtney is getting married in 2 weeks! We have been celebrating it like there is no tomorrow..she has had 3 showers already! She had such a blast opening all of her new kitchen gadgets, bedding and..ooh la la..lingerie! We are so excited to see her new life unfold. She will be a great little wife!

#4. Ragnar Training! Tyler's race on the Wasatch Back is THIS FRIDAY! He has been training almost every day trying to get ready for this thing! I will be super proud of him when I see him finish - and super happy it will be OVER! Go Ty!!
#3. School and more school! I am swamped with homework and projects that are due almost every day. I actually don't mind it. The hard part is juggling everything. School, work, cleaning the house, spending time with my hubby & my family - all of that! I will be happy when I am done!
#2. My 25th B-day. (note the period - not exclamation mark) It hasn't actually happened yet - it's tomorrow - but I am DREADING it. Somehow I always thought I would be in my early 20's. I don't know why I am having such a hard time with it - but I am. Breathe, Jenna, breathe!!
#1. Park City Weekend! My fantastic hubby whisked me away to Park City this last weekend. I know it is not California or Hawaii or something..but to me - this was just the perfect getaway! We had a hottub in our room - it was fab-u-lous! He let me do WHATEVER I want. We shopped, ate tons of food, went to the Alpine Slide (which I beat him at and he was SOOOOO mad! YAY!) He is the sweetest guy - I am still just so in love with my hubby after almost 5 years together!!

So that is pretty much it!! I am off to watch the Bachelorette!

Jenna

Bring Back Ostertag!!!

2009-06-15T09:01:00.006-06:00

OK, if your not a Jazz fan, this one might go over your head. I was reading this article today:

http://www.azcentral.com/sports/suns/articles/2009/06/11/20090611spt-ostertag.html

Ostertag has long been the butt of many NBA sportscasters jokes, or the billboard spokesman for The Kidney Foundation, but I have a sneaking suspicion that Ostertag is going to take the NBA by storm this time.

I mean look at the picture above, incredible. I just wanted to say this publicly, I am firmly on the bring back Ostertag to Utah bandwagon. Too bad we picked up the option on the other unathletic tall white guy - Fesenko. (http://www.deseretnews.com/photos/midres/5763536.jpg)

Here's a few stats to snack on while considering whether we should bring him back:

4.6 Points per game
1.7 Blocks per game
5.5 Rebounds per Game

In addition to these stats - he has a Fred Flinstone tattoo on his calf. Amazing!

-T

Summer TV Guilty Pleasures!!

2009-05-25T16:17:00.005-06:00

It's basically summer... because summer TV has finally arrived! FINALLY!! Some of my favorite guilty pleasure TV shows are in the summer. Starting with The Bachelorette. I am addicted to The Bachelor in the fall/spring and now I get to watch this! I love the new Bachelorette, Jillian. I think she is adorable! I didn't really understand her whole "hot dog" theory from when she was "dating" Jason (who by the way - is a loser). Other than that, I think she has quite the plethera of guys to pick from. There are some very gooooood looking men on this season. I am excited to see if she makes good decisions or not. I have a good feeling she will pick some winners & not weiners (pun intended) Haha!

Oh..and something very important happened in the last week - that's right. I got BRAVO back!! My husband was super nice and called lame Comcast & used his superior negotiating skills to get my precious channel back. That was seriously all I watched for like 2 years until we switched from DirectTV to Comcast. Yay Tyler! I think he might regret it now though. All I do is talk about Real Housewives of New Jersey, The Fashion Show (not as good as Project Runway..but I will survive on that until the new one comes on Lifetime) and Top Chef. He is like..oh man..what did I DO?!?!? I just come back with..oh so..how IS ESPN treating you? :) He can't say anything after that.

I might sound like a big DORK, but I don't really care. I love my summer shows and I know there are lots of my friends that do - but they just won't admit it. So go on, people...it's ok..let it out.. let the summer bug bite ya!! Sit back, grab some munchies and enjoy the juicy goodness that IS reality TV!

It's Officially Hiking Season!...Almost..

2009-05-16T16:32:00.005-06:00

Today my hubby and I went on our first hike of the season! We went on a hike up Big Cottonwood Canyon to Lake Blanche. It was such a beautiful, serene day up there. Backpack in tow, we headed on up to the trailhead. We were the first ones there - we got up early - and it was so much fun. We hiked about 3 miles up and almost got to the lake and then.... we had to stop. There was still way too much snow and it was blocking the trail. We had to turn back. Don't worry - we will be back up there in a couple of weeks when all of the snow melts. We WILL conquer that trail!!

Our goal is to hike at least 2 times a month during the hiking season. We love to spend time together and we feel really great after we have accomplished a big hike. Everyone is always so friendly on the trails too - which I love. It's like you're in this little club and everyone just sits and talks on the trail. We are excited to see how many hikes we can get in before the end of the summer. Wahoo!

The beginning...

Still so much snow!

I know, I know - my outfit doesn't match - but Ty was nice and gave me his jacket.

Ragnar anyone?

2009-05-11T17:34:00.002-06:00

So, some of you know I am training for a relay race next month, The Wasatch Back. Its a relay race from Logan to Park City, we have 12 team members, and overall the race is 187 miles long. I got kind of lucky that I only have to run 13 of those.

My first leg is just over 6 miles, see above, and is gonna be the toughest, but not too bad. All I need is my iPod, and these little packets of caffeine enhanced heaven called "Gu" (a flavored pouch of gel that gives you a little boost if you are struggling.

Jenna has been awesome. Even though I don't have school, I am still busy with training and stuff, so I am lucky she has been pretty patient with me. She's even started doing some running herself!

I downloaded this band called "Cage the Elephant" on iTunes to run to, and its awesome. If you like weirdo, alternative indie bands, check them out. Also, no running collection is complete without Journey "Don't Stop Believin", lets be honest, it's most likely the greatest song ever written. Yes, greater than anything Neil Diamond has done. I know that's bold, but its true. You want to know why? When I am running, and I hit that proverbial "Wall", these are the lyrics that I hear "Don't stop believing, Hold on to that feeling" Oh the movie never ends, its goes on and on and on and on....

Graduation Days....

2009-04-30T15:41:00.006-06:00

Doesn't he look DAPPER!?

GOOD JOB BABE!!

It seems everyone I know is GRADUATING this year! It is so great! The two big ones are my hubby & my little sis Courtney. Tyler is graduating on Saturday with a Bachelors in Business Management & Marketing and Court with her nursing degree from UVU. I am very proud of them both!! My husband has worked 2 jobs, gone to school, juggled me & family and gotten married all at once!! He is a trooper that is for sure. I am so excited he will have just a smidgen more time to spend with me. WAHOO! So congrats you two!!

This all just makes me want to get my butt in gear and get done with school faster! I start summer semester in May and only have about 4 semesters left until I can graduate with in Education (I am hopefully going to be an Elementary School Teacher). I am really excited to get done! School is tough business! Anyone who has anything higher than a Bachelor's I have to bow down to! Amazing!

So wish me luck people! I'll need it!

Bella's Antics..

2009-04-20T22:36:00.004-06:00

As all of you know I haven't caught the "baby bug" quite yet - like all of my prego friends. However, we do have our little Baby Bella - our puppy. She is so funny and playful and cute all of the time (except for when she runs away and causes her Mom to fall!) So Ty thought he would take some video of her playing around with her toy. It might not be a baby video - but it is as close as I will come for a while. This is Bella playing with her new squeaky toy (although she already broke the squeaker) and her trying to jump to get it. We think it's funny - so hopefully you will too!

My Little Sis is Getting MARRIED! AACK!!

2009-04-05T09:38:00.007-06:00

It is finally OFFICIAL. My little sister, Courtney, is getting married!! They got engaged last night. This has been overdue for some time now, yes, but I can't believe it is actually going to happen! She is thrilled of course and we are thrilled for her. It just makes me feel really super super OLD! She is getting married in June - which is crazy because I was engaged for 9 months and she has to plan a wedding in 2. My mom will help her out and be awesome like she was for mine (even though we argued a ton during that time - I couldn't have done it without her). I can't wait to have my first sister be married. I am just so happy for her..so CONGRATS COURT! My only advice to you is ENJOY YOUR DAY! It will fly by and you won't even realize it until it's over. Enjoy every little detail, every moment and take time to step back and take it all in. As cheesy as that is - it's true - don't forget it!!! LOVE YA COURT & TAYLOR - GOOD LUCK!

Also, I had told some of you that I did a singing competition on my cruise..and for some reason y'all wanted PROOF. So here it is in living color..me singing (and WINNING I might add)the Cruise version of "The Singing Bee". Don't say I didn't warn you..I am a little crazy!

Worst Sickness EVER!

2009-03-29T10:36:00.007-06:00

The gorgeous flowers to make it all better..

My hurt little elbow...

So I have been sick for the last week. We got back from our cruise on Saturday..and then Sunday I got sick! It is the worst sickness I have ever had I think..I had no voice, headaches, runny/stuffy nose, body aches and the most horrible deep cough. I had to miss work after I had just taken a week off..which is never good! I went to the doc and he said I had a really strong, really contagious virus - and that there were no antibiotics to cure it - just a cough suppressant. So, I just had to sit home being bored for 3 days..I get so stir crazy when I am not busy. Then, to make matters worse..One sicky morning I decided to take the garbage out..and my naughty puppy decided to take off out the door and started running as fast as her little legs could carry her. I panicked and grabbed the first pair of shoes I could get (some slippery black work ones) and ran out into the snowy/icy weather. As I rounded a corner, I hit some ice and WHOMP! Fell straight on my back/elbow/arm..my elbow got the brunt of it. I was so mad and embarrassed! I finally got Bella and was furious..only to look down and realize my elbow was profusely gushing blood..it was disgusting. If that dog wasn't so dang cute I would be selling her on the corner with a "Free to whoever will take it" sign. Ha jk. Then my hubby sent me the most gorgeous lilies so it kind of made it better..kind of. I think my pride might have been hurt more than my body.

Why can't we have a vacation AFTER our vacation?

2009-03-23T19:21:00.008-06:00

Well we got back from our cruise on Saturday. I am a little upset that we came from perfectly sunny happy fantastic weather to SNOW! What the?! That is a little sad I must say. We had a blast though. We went to Puerto Rico, St. Maarten & Labadee, Haiti. It was SO much fun. We definitely enjoyed ourselves. We snorkeled, lounged at the beach, shopped, ate a TON of food - 10lbs. later - and just generally had an amazing time. I did not want it to end! We had such a fun fun group of people. We have so many funny memories from that trip. It was an absolutely perfect vacation. Thank you to my amazing husband who put this whole trip together for us. I am so glad he got a break from his crazy work schedule and had some down time to just have fun and be young! Now it is back to work I go..but at least somewhere in the back of my mind I will have these cruise memories to pull me through!

Cruisin' on outta here...

2009-02-24T18:59:00.002-07:00

Ty and I are in desperate need of a vacation. So I guess it is a good thing that we have one coming up! We are going on a cruise! Yahoooo! Ty is burnt out at work for sure - working from 8am to 9:30 at night EVERY day of the week! I don't know how he does it. I am busier than ever at work..I love it but it is definitely time for a BREAK! We cannot wait to go. Now I just need to get in swimsuit shape..but it is so hard! Wii fit definitely isnt cutting it! And I was so hoping that it would so I wouldn't have to ya know...eat healthy and exercise. Boo to that!

It seems a lot of my friends are finding themselves preggers lately. I have been asked a LOT MORE now "When are you going to have a baby - everyone else is?!" So just to set the record straight...I am NOT pregnant (nor do I look prego hopefully) and I don't plan to be anytime in the near future. I know my Mom wears her little wish necklace every day so that I will have these fabulous twin babies (yes, twins) but NOT YET! All in good time, Mom..all in good time.

Oh man...

2009-02-03T08:22:00.003-07:00

OK so this is Bella's thought process at night generally:

Get Toy, chew it - take it to Mom or Dad to throw
Whoosh - Oh there is goes gotta get it!!! Gotta get it!!!
Ok Got it, take it back to them to throw again
They're not paying attention what do I do??? What do I do???

Aha! I'll get the toy stuck under the couch
Oh man they haven't noticed its stuck under the couch
Time to pull out the big guns - Whimper whimper

Yes!!! They're getting it out.
Throw it again throw it again.

Then repeat lines 2 - 8.

The picture is of her getting stuck between the ottoman and the couch. She chased her toy under the couch, then we heard the whimper and she couldn't get out.

Feeling of Freedom

2009-01-15T18:52:00.005-07:00

So I just have to write because I am so excited. This might seem like a little thing, but I PAID OFF MY CAR! Yay! I made on huge payment and it is done! Ya ya ya! It is my New Years resolution to be better with money. Ty says I spend way too much of it and I am in over my head. He is right. I am going to strive to spend a lot less and save a lot more! It is going to be super difficult because I really really like shopping. What is Jenna without her L.A.M.B bag attached? Haha. Am I the only one out there who has a hard time saving? I must be!! I will survive I am sure. My friends are going to have to help me be strong. Anyhoo..that is my goal and I will try to stick to it! Wish me luck!!

Oh and my little sis Taryn is off to UVU! I feel so happy for her that she will finally be able to live on her own and become independent! She is going to love it and never want to come back! Which is a little bittersweet for me..she is one amazing sis. Love her to pieces! Good luck Taryn!!!!

It's Over!!!

2009-01-05T07:46:00.003-07:00

Man, I love the Christmas Season, but I hate that first day when you realize its over and get that feeling of "Well, today is the furthest away from next Christmas as I could possibly be..." I hate that feeling. Oh well. Things to look forward to in 2009:

1. LOST/Fringe return Jan 20th/21st.
2. Mine and Jennas 25th Birthday - Man 25 years old, who'd a thunk it.
3. January 24th - Neil Diamond turns 78!
4. Our Cruise to the Bahamas in March - Oh man!
5. Utah Jazz ditching Carlos Boozer. Maybe its wishful thinking, but I have my fingers crossed.

My Hubby

2008-12-29T18:23:00.003-07:00

I know I gush about Ty all the time..but I just cant help myself. This Christmas, he was so sweet and put so much hard work into my presents. He did a whole ART ROOM for me! He bought me a drafting table!! So I can sit and paint, draw and create for hours and hours - I dont think realizes he has woke the creative beast in me! And painted this really old, antique chest "Princess Ivory" (the guy at Home Depot asked him if he was getting that paint name for HIS princess and he said Yes, sir! Ha ha!) It's like my own little world in our basement. I couldnt be happier at how thoughtful and loving he is. Although, he did buy "Me" Mario Kart for Wii. Ha - sure ty, sure. I love him still. We had an amazing Christmas - we got completely spoiled and loved. Thanks to all of our friends and family, we LOVE you!!

Have a fantastical New Year!

Peace & Love
J

Christmas Spirit

2008-12-07T16:15:00.004-07:00

If you are struggling to find the Christmas joy that comes with Christmas-because everything is so retail and money driven, Ty and I found a couple of solutions to fix that this season.

This weekend has really got me and Ty in the Christmas spirit. Today we went and did the Angel Tree. It was so awesome to just imagine this little girl opening all these things she wanted on Christmas morning. They only ask for things they NEED-not what they WANT. It is so awesome to help out these families. If you have the means to do it, I suggest you do it - it's a great feeling.

We also went to ZOO Lights the other night as Ty's surprise to me. I love the zoo. There were actually animals out which was fun. It was all magical and lit up - super pretty. And we got these 3-D glasses that make everything look like little snowmen. If you are in a bad mood, oh man, they put you in such a good one! We were laughing and giggling like little 5-year-olds. (They are well worth the 2 bucks we spent) My family and our friends were captivated by these cheapy little glasses. The best, most priceless thing ever!

Also, if you make wassail-that always gets me in the Christmas spirit.

So Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone!

Thankful...

2008-11-28T10:58:00.005-07:00

My friend Ashlee is the inspiration for this post. She wrote about all these things she is thankful for and it just got me thinking what I am most thankful for too. I know Thanksgiving has passed already, but I have the urge to take a little time and appreciate all that I have.

I am thankful for...

MY HUSBAND: Ty, because he is the one who keeps me going. He brightens my day and makes me laugh and treats me like I'm a queen..but he is not too nice cause he puts me in my place if I deserve it :).

MY FAMILY & BELLA: they are a little crazy, but they are always supportive and loving to me in all that I do. It is nice to have them be such a big part of my life. And Bella..well, Bella is just my first child, as all of you know. And she probably will be for a LONG time.

My health: because some people have it WAY worse than I do. For the most part, I am pretty healthy. I have all my fingers and toes, no cancer, no diseases, no crazy ailments..and (knock on wood)..its pretty great to be healthy!!

A good bowl of cereal: I know that's kind of weird, but Ty knows, I love my cereal. Nothing makes me happier than to come home from working 10 hours and have a big bowl of Special K. Mmmm goood.

My friends: I am so extremely thankful for my friends. Especially these last few months I have realized what amazing friends I have. They keep me sane, make me laugh until I cry, and love me no matter how looney I am!

A good day off: Yes, we are all thankful for this one. Need I say more?

Thanks for reading on and on about what I am thankful for. Seriously though, try it, cause it makes you appreciate all the GOOD you have in your life and not just focus on the BAD parts of it.

Love & Peace
J

5 ways to make a great TV Suspense/Drama!

2008-11-28T08:01:00.003-07:00

I hate to admit it, but I am a TV Suspense/Drama Junkie. My obsession started a few years back when Jenna brought home Season One of a little show called LOST. It's been downhill ever since. With my vast experience now, I have narrowed it down to 5 ways to make a great TV Suspense/Drama.

1. Put attractive people in unattractive situations. Look at these shows and every Cop/Detective, Leader of stranded LOSTies, Prison Breakers, Fringe Scientist are all good looking people. In "real life" this is unheard of, take a second to remember the news. Remember any prison stories? Do they look like Movie stars? Thought not, but thats the appeal right? These are unique stories, where good looking people do extradinary things.

2. Give the viewers little victories. Some of the appeal of these shows is letting the viewers participate and try and guess whats going to happen. While they cant reveal the story until the end of the series, they can let the viewers get some things right along the way. While I may have been wrong about the coffee shop owner being the head of a multi-national crime syndicate, I was right about the single mother falling in love with the serial killer. Play to my ego, give me a little taste of success.

3. Please make it believable, Please! Sometimes I watch TV shows or Movies that are supposed to be serious, and sometimes laugh. I know Indiana Jones, is kind of a fantasy story, but come on magic alien skulls and kids swinging on vines and landing perfectly into a moving vehicle. Loses all credibility. Give me a story that is far-fetched, but believable, and I'm sucked in.

4. Characters make logical, human decisions. Ok, one question: Why is it when someone is in the middle of a scary murder scene, they always like to investigate the fluttering drapes, or flickering light in the barn? That's not a natural human reaction, and sets up the murderer for an easy target. I want a smart murderer, that isn't handed a target on a silver platter. Here's a story I want to see: Give me an Olympic runner, put them in the desert or something where he can run and have the murderer try and catch him. Now that would take some intelligence to catch him, not just a bear walking into the trap.

5. Mass conspiracy please. I love it when that policeman, you think is helping the victim, is really sabotaging the investigation. Makes you feel like you are watching something big. What does the secret organization need with that scroll? I don't know viewers, you'll have to stay tuned to find out.

Bittersweet

2008-11-16T12:09:00.003-07:00

So yesterday was my friend Megans Wedding! It was so much fun..all my girls were there and we all just get along so great. But in the back of my mind I was thinking..am I ever gonna be this close with them again? Now that I have a new job, I wonder if we will keep in touch and stay close like I hope we will. You always promise and say you promise you will..I just hope that stays true. Cause I would hate to lose my such good, amazing, sassy, funny, fabulous friends that I have grown so close to these last 3 years. I love them all and truly, truly I dont know if I will find such a good group of people anywhere else.

And by the way..my last post I forgot to mention what my new job is. I work for an insurance company being their coordinator for the Life portion of their company. It doesn't sound like fun..but it is and I love it already. It feels like it is the right fit. So yay!

Love & Peace,
J

A Fresh Start

2008-11-11T22:42:00.003-07:00

So....big....huge...news!! Jenna got a new job! That's me! Finally! After months and months of searching, wishing and hoping..it finally happened!! I am so so excited I can not even BEGIN to tell you! I can not wait to start something new where I am actually NEEDED and WANTED and not just a "number." It is such a relief to find a job that I know I will excel at and they will appreciate me for. It is a little bittersweet though..I will miss ALL of my girls at Nordy's. They have been the very very best friends ever. I love them so much and will miss them every day! And all of them (you know who you are) better keep in touch with me and not disappear into Nordstrom air! I am just so excited -and so is Ty cuz I wont be whining to him anymore about my lack of happiness at my current position- to start something fresh and get my brain actually THINKING for a change! Ha! I am stoked so wish me luck!!

Finally..A Place of Our Own

2008-10-26T20:54:00.005-06:00

So we finally made the move! We made the move from Draper back to my favorite city, Sandy and I couldnt be happier. It's just a little place..but its ours and we love it! We have a upstairs and a--hold the phone--basement! Which is a whole new concept to us..seeing as we have both been apartment dwelling people for the last 7 years of our lives! Ty has his den and I have an actual art room..which is going to be so so so great! We bought a new sectional for our "movie room" as Ty calls it and we are just so thrilled. Bella is freaking out she has so much space she doesn't know what to do! A little backyard and a place for her to roam and explore..she is in puppy heaven! We are just so appreciative of our little humble life and we couldn't ask for more..we feel like we are starting the rest of our lives now. A little Haggin Family. Hee.

A Whole New Lovely World..

2008-10-16T15:55:00.002-06:00

Oh my..so I am just like beside myself excited about what I just found! I know I am way out of the loop because I have heard my friends talk about this forever..but now I am addicted! Its a little website called Etsy. Me- being the art loving, doodle crazy, homemade creation psycho that I am-can not believe I just discovered this! There are so so so many amazing things on that adorable site! I seriously probably spent 2 hours just scrolling through everything. Its so chic and kitschy and I just love it. It makes me want to really get back into my art. Soon though, because in our new place I will have my very own..get ready for it..ART ROOM! To decorate and love as my own little haven. So hopefully, sometime in the near future, you will be able to see my humble creations on Etsy too! And for every one of my friends who already has their own Etsy-I'm jealous..but I'll be right on your tail here soon!

Ole Ole....

2008-10-10T10:56:00.003-06:00

Last night was opening night in the new Real Salt Lake stadium, Rio Tinto Stadium. I know what you're thinking and yes we all agree, why Rio Tinto? Why not something amazing like "The Thunder Dome" Or "Hell on Earth", I think that would strike more fear in the hearts of visiting opponents. Just a thought.

Anyway, parking was of course a joke, word to the wise - dont get off on 90th South. Once we parked and got into the stadium, it was awesome. The stadium is amazing inside, and the atmosphere was electric (yes, I went there and used an old sports metaphor). People waving towels, streamers flying, high fives being handed out like candy on Halloween.

I'm a big soccer fan and was really happy to see that many people embracing it. Maybe there is hope just yet. Even Jenna went! Woop Woop! That made me really happy that she went for me.

T

That "old" feeling..

2008-10-08T20:32:00.003-06:00

So..last night we went to the Weezer concert! It was a lot of fun and they actually put on one of the best concerts I have ever seen..really entertaining. Yet the whole time I couldnt help but peer around me and notice that we were probably the oldest people there,(except for some random 50-year-old swaying back and forth to music I'm SURE he had never heard before). My sister happened to be there and she was still probably old for the crowd that was there! Anyhoo I just felt like I have finally reached the point in my life that I never thought I would..maturity. Eek! I guess I'll have to get used to it..cause I am certainly not getting any younger!!

Also, I have cleaned house today! I mean it! I cleaned out my closet-3 big bags full of old clothes-and wow it feels good. We have started to take small loads over to the new house and I hate being in limbo! We are so excited to just be moved in and have some room to breathe! I am also going to make Ty the 2nd actual, full blown meal (yes 2nd!) I have made him since we began dating 4 years ago! Sad I know but cooking has just never been my strong suit! I'm trying though, mom! I really am!!

All for now,
PEACE & MUCH LOVE,
J

Little Monkey...

2008-10-07T14:45:00.002-06:00

OK, I am generally against dressing dogs up, but I am more lenient when it comes to halloween. So we decided to get Bella a Halloween Costume.

As you can tell from the picture she is none to happy about it. She is paralyzed when its put on her. But isn't she the cutest Shnonkey (Schanuzer/Monkey) I've ever seen.

So ask yourself? Which is more immoral: Going against your initial beliefs that dressing dogs isn't cool, or looking at this picture and not smiling? You be the judge.

My First Child..

2008-09-30T10:57:00.003-06:00

Don't be scared..I'm not prego! I am talking about my little baby Bella. The mini-schnauzer who is the cutest, funniest, most loving dog ever. I was having a rough morning-just tired and groggy-and she jumped up on me and nuzzled her little head between my arms. And looked up at me with those adorable brown eyes and just melted my heart. You just cant have a bad day with Bella around. She lights up our lives and we consider her our first child. So for all you cat people out there..Im sorry, but there just isnt anything as great as the love of a puppy.

J

David Blaine angers me...

2008-09-30T09:41:00.003-06:00

So the other night, were watching TV and a David Blaine special comes on. He's travelling the world performing his tricks. He blows my mind. Never in my life have I believed in magic, but how does he do that???

People sign a playing card and it ends up in a beer bottle. What?!?!?!

He actually made me think "Well, maybe he is magic", but then I came back down to earth and my sense took over me. No such thing as magic, just extreme trickery. So my new hobby will be, to become an extreme trickster.

You almost had me David...almost.

T

I think I know what an addict feels like....

2008-09-24T14:45:00.004-06:00

So over the last few months, I have been succombing to temptation and really living life to the fullest with these energy drinks. My favorite is the Mountain Dew Amp, but I'll be honest I'm not picky. Sometimes up to three a day. Why? Well, my reasons are three fold -

1. I believe my body has adapted to the extra calories/caffeine I have been consuming. To take it away now, would be the equivalent of taking away water.
2. My mind tells me that I am tired regardless of how much sleep I have had, unless I have had an energy drink. I could have been up all night and ready to collapse from sleep depervation, but if I have an energy drink its like a full nights sleep.
3. I think I look cool drinking it. My assumption is that only a real man can handle energy drinks, plus its normally really shiny, which appeals to me.

I realized it was probably an issue because this morning driving to work, I was so disappointed because I didnt have that in my car to get me through the rush hour traffic. Here's to the good life.

Yes-Married life is great!

2008-09-16T15:21:00.002-06:00

All my friends/family keep asking me and Ty how married life is. My response is the same every time-I have it down to a science-I say "Its great! The same - but great". Because we have been dating for 4 years and didnt rush into it like some people I know, I think we understand each other pretty well. There arent really any crazy surprises that came about the second we got married. He knows I am silly and hyper sometimes and I know he is a weirdo and unorganized ALL the time! Ha! But at the end of the day..I can't wait until he walks through the door, says hello to Bella & I and I can give him a huge hug. There is nothing like knowing that you found your one true person. It doesnt happen every day to everyone and I just feel like we are one in a very few handful of people to have found each other. He amazes me every day with all the little things he does. He is such a hardworker and such a kind person. He always knows how to make me feel better and how to make me feel so happy. I could go on and on but I wont..its cheesy I know..but I love him, and I am so excited to move into a house with more than one bathroom and enjoy our life!
All for now
Peace, love, and laughter

J

2 1/2 weeks!

2008-09-16T14:13:00.002-06:00

So its been 2 1/2 weeks since we got married and so far everything is sunshine and roses. We've been getting settled in, and everything is pretty normal now. Jenna and I went on a hike up Bell Canyon on Sunday it was fun. It's good to get away and do something different, and we both really like hiking. Bella has been acting weird since she went into heat, probably because she has to wear that silly diaper all around. I hate putting that thing on her and she just looks up at me like "You understand how humiliating it is to wear a diaper in front of all my friends", she then pouts at me. Thats ok she's been getting extra treats since I feel bad for her. Peace!

T

Crashing Hard!

2008-09-04T11:34:00.002-06:00

So we had an amazing honeymoon in Hawaii, seriously so relaxing. I developed a taste for naps while I was there. Im having a hard time readjusting to reality. Like right now, I sure could go for a nap, but I am at work without a bed in site. Crashing hard! I guess a week in paradise makes it hard to come back to 60 hour work weeks.

Hawaii is just as awesome as everyone says it is. We went on hikes, went snorkeling, went parasailing, ate amazing food. And Marriage is not bad itself. I guess its only been 13 days, but I am probably still revelling from the wedding, but I dont care Im happy.

I didnt realize how much I would miss Bella while I was gone, but sure enough that little tike was running through my mind with every dog I saw on the island. It was good to get home to see her and our families. We got spoiled with all of our gifts. Thank you to everyone who helped with the wedding it was amazing.

FINALLY MARRIED!!

2008-08-31T23:23:00.002-06:00

Well hello again people...yes it finally came! We got married!! Aug 22, 2008! It was the best day ever. Everyone involved was so so super helpful and we couldnt have been more happy with the outcome. The ceremony was perfect, short and sweet..and apparently we made a lot of people cry (Ty cried the most I think!)..The weather, the music, the food, the scenery, the guests, everything was great..except for my cake..but other than that it was perfecto!! We got so lucky with our two great families. They are so supportive and excited for us..and we love them to death!! We spent the night talking, barely eating or drinking, and doing a surprise dance for everyone!! It was one of the best days of my life..and Im sure Ty would agree. It was a fairytale ending to an amazing new beginning..we drove away in my dads mustang convertible..I in my dress, Ty in his tux..it was straight out of a movie..so great!! THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HELPED..seriously we couldnt have done it without you!

Then we got to go to Hawaii for our fantastic honeymoon..7 days of just relaxing, laying on the beach, hiking, snorkeling, eating WAY too much food (that killed my diet!) Oh well.. I had to indulge I have been eating nothing but salad and fruit for 2 months to fit into my dress!!
Now we are back..back to reality..booooo! Back to the grind..but its all ok because Ty and I are finally finally finally married..and I couldnt be happier to start a life with him..

P.S. Bella is excited too!

and the good news is...?

2008-08-10T20:38:00.002-06:00

I am a baby. I miss my Ty so so much. He hasnt even been gone for 24 hours and I miss him!! We havent spent a night apart from each other in..I cant even remember cuz it's been so long. I wish he would come back..but I feel this is only the beginning because he is so hard working. I feel lots and lots of business trips coming on. While he leaves his 2 girls at home. Boo. But I am an oh-so-proud little wifey-to-be..
I went to Lagoon today and I decided something. I am WAY too old and not W.T. to be there. Dont get me wrong, its fun really. But I could play "your team" all day and it just isnt fair to Noelle to do that. Ha! I like coming home after a long day of walking in the hot sun and dealing with sweaty, smelly, stinky people to my nice house..the only thing missing is Ty.
Peace, Love,
Jenna

Just waiting....

2008-08-03T10:53:00.003-06:00

I am definitely just waiting for this whole wedding day thing to come!! I feel like im in this alternate universe in limbo. Has every other bride felt like I do?? If I were to do it again..I would most certainly NOT have a 10month engagement. You go insane with all the little details and all the little things you can change. Then you have every persons opinion about everything you are doing. Like "why purple?" "why are you having that kind of food?", "are you sure you dont want alcohol at your reception?" "how come you two just didnt elope?" "why does your hair LOOK like that? I like it better THIS way"..It just gets to a point and you want to scream at everyone you love. My mom and I have not gotten in so many little tiffs in my whole life. I hate it. I am way excited, dont get me wrong, but does all this in between stuff have to be so tiring and exhausting? I wanted this to be a fun experience and the only thing Im looking forward to is Ty's face when he sees me in my dress. eeeeek...

Standing for something...

2008-07-30T13:15:00.002-06:00

This will be kinda a weird post, but bear with me. I've been thinking lately about how every person in this world has one main priority, mostly its family, which I can say is my priority. But I heard a Toby Keith song yesterday called "American Soldier". There is one quote that gets me every time:

"And I will always do my duty no matter what the price
I’ve counted up the cost, I know the sacrifice
Oh and I don’t want to die for you, but if dyin’s asked of me
I’ll bear that cross with honor, cause freedom don’t come free."

Listening to that song just makes me thankful that I am who I am, and partly because of the people that choose to protect us so I dont have to. I think its important to realize that even though we may nto agree with how our armed forces are being utilized, they are there on the front lines ensuring that our way of life is there for our taking. My philosophy is that you can have everything in this world that you want, all it takes is hard work. That philosophy is true because of our freedom.

So close..yet so far away

2008-07-27T18:08:00.002-06:00

So the wedding is getting closer and closer and closer....eek!! So much to do and so little time. My bridals are on Wednesday..and I have NOTHING done..No veil, no earrings, no shoes, no "perfect" hair style!!! WHAT am I gonna do?? Panic, thats what!! It will all work out Im sure..but right now Im definitely turning into Bridezilla (something I swore I would never turn into). I feel bad for my family and Ty's family having to deal with me for the next month..But Tyler made a vow not to disagree with me or argue with me for the next 30 days. So he is doing really good so far and helping me to relax.
In other news we went and saw Stepbrothers today..it was quite what I had expected. A lot of not needed F-words in that show. But funny none the less. Now we are just chilling with little puppy face Bella. She is so dang cute. Love her.
Hopefully all the invites will go out within the next couple days and then thats one more CHECK! I can put on something. Yay..the countdown continues. Wish me luck..and wish Ty luck for having to deal with me for the next month..muah love him.
Peace,
J

Cooking

2008-07-18T19:04:00.002-06:00

Ok I just have to rant a little... I know I'm a girl and all..and I'm supposed to have these "instincts" as a woman. But I just dont. Cooking is the root of all my frustrations. I want to cook and be a cute little wife-to-be for my Ty. But I just cant do it. It takes too long. There are too many ingredients most of the time. I don't have half the things I need to be cooking these amazing meals. And I certainly don't want to spend my hard earned money on a lime squeezer or a food processor. I'd much rather have a brand new pair of shoes. Now THAT's a womanly instinct I do have. So sorry people..but I don't think Im cut out for this thing called cooking.

Peace,
J

Its gettin down to the wire

2008-07-16T09:48:00.002-06:00

Its almost time to get married people!! I cant freakin believe it! One month and 6 days and I will be Mrs. Tyler Haggin..Weirdest feeling ever! I have so much to do its not even funny. People kept telling me just take the money and run. I didnt listen man I should have!! No it will be really nice. We finally found a minister and I think she will be great! Its gonna be the best feeling to walk down the aisle and see Ty's face at the end of it. Its like a culmination of the past 4 years coming together into that one moment. I cant wait.
Oh and just for Ty's FYI..I looked up the lyrics to "When I grow up" and it IS "groupies" not what tyler thought it was.. ha.
J

My Birthday!

2008-07-10T09:13:00.002-06:00

Well yesterday was my birthday, I know can you believe I turned 35 this year. Ha no one will believe that Im a solid 24 now though. I went to work, then came home and Jenna took me to Bambara restaurant, which is in the Hotel Monaco. Awesome food, awesome service. Then we went home and Jenna had a surprise for me...Rock Band for the Wii. Little did she know that I would exercise my "Birthday Powers" and force her to play with me until late into the night. I gave my best shot at singing, I think Jenna threw up once from it, but hey it was fun. I have a feeling there will be some restless nights due to this game! Overall very fun birthday, Got some Disney movies, and I am not ashamed to say that I love Disney Movies! Also another season of Seinfeld, and I doubt anyone would blame me for liking that.

T

Its already JULY!

2008-07-03T12:15:00.002-06:00

Its already July 3!! Eek! Our day is rapidly approaching its slightly nervewracking!! I finally got my dress..its actually AT my parents house..which is crazy. It makes it super real! Im way excited to call Ty my hubby. I know he is stressed about school and work and all the extra little things he has to do. But Im so proud of him and all that he does every day. The fact that he has any energy for me and all my craziness means the world to me. He makes me fall in love with him more and more every day just the way he is to me. (excuse my moment of cheesiness, but its true)
I have 2 whole days off now. So hopefully we will do something fun tomorrow for the
4th and I wont be feeling so under-the-weather. I really hate feeling gross.
Anyway..all for now.
Peace
Jenna

Just trucking along!

2008-06-26T10:50:00.002-06:00

Alright, its 7 weeks from today that my last day in school is...Oh man, I am smelling the barn like no other. It feels like I've been going to school for ages now, I cant believe its so close. Im in my last class now, well not technically, I have to take a finishing class after this one. But official classes are done next thursday. The wedding is still looking pretty smooth, we got our invitation pictures back and will get that going within the next few weeks.

My birthday is coming up in a couple weeks, so Im pretty excited to just take that weekend off and relax. So that should be cool. Peace!

June 18

2008-06-18T09:16:00.002-06:00

Hello again..just thought I would keep this blog thing going as much as I can. I went back to work yesterday for the first time in forever it seems. It was not all I would have hoped it would be. It was a really slow day with some not so fun people being really rude to me. I love my job and teaching people about makeup but the flip side of it is all politics and I am just not about that. I would love to move up with the company and grow but it seems in order to do that I have to be fake and cheesy. Neither of which, I am. So what do I do? I wallow in pity and make Ty listen to my many many complaints about it. But I just cant help it. Until I get my degree Im stuck stuck stuck.
On a lighter note...Bella ran into the kitchen door today and I have never laughed so hard in my life. She was stunned for about 5min after that and a little like she was drunk. Quite funny. Made my day. Im off to run now so I can fit into that looming thing called my wedding dress!
J

Such a new thing for me....

2008-06-15T14:16:00.001-06:00

So..apparently I have a blog site now. Unbeknowst to me my cute little fiance made one. So far, so good I guess. So we just got back from the P.C. and it was amazingly fun and fantastical! We went to dinner at Grappos..not Grandpas like my sister thought..IT was YUMSKY!! But quite on the pricey side..Well worth it cuz the food was delightful! We got Ty's ring up there..it took us like 20min to pick it out. We are just really really good at ring shopping. We got mine in like 30min if I remember right. Now it feels official. I love it. Im so so excited to be his wife and to be able to call him my husband after 4 years!! I think thats a good start to this "blog" thing. We shall see how it goes from here!

PEACE people. Peace.
Jen

Jennas Birthday

2008-06-11T16:11:00.000-06:00

So, this blog started as a birthday gift to Jenna. Her birthday is coming up June 16th. So After then, youwill probably see some posts from her. I have planned a night up in Park City, with dinner and a hotel room at the Silver King Hotel. I'm sure she will like that, or at least go with the "thought that counts" mentality. We will also be doing a "Date Video" that day for our wedding, which is when we go and film a video and talk about how we got together, add pretty music to it to add to the romantic effect and so on. The video gets added to the picture slideshow that will be shown at the wedding and it makes Jenna happy so I'm fine with it. I also attempted to paint a "Munny" for her for her birthday. I'm gonna admit I have the painting skills of a 5 year old child. Remember way back when, when it almost seemed IMPOSSIBLE to stay within those lines when coloring? Or when you had to do the Dot to Dot drawings and it would somehow turn into a square cow. Well, thats what I have been reduced to. I can picture what I want, but it definitely didnt turn out like what I had in my head...oops. Again, hoping for the "Thought that counts"

Oh Bella!

2008-06-05T17:35:00.000-06:00

We got Bella in mid February at 8 weeks, so today she is close to 5 1/2 months old. She is quite a character, I've never seen such a little dog think she was so big. We got her when she was 2.7 lbs, and today she is almost 10 lbs. Crazy! You haven't seen funny until you have seen her with an ice cube. Man we throw it on the kitchen floor and the hunt is on. She paws it, which of course makes it go sliding across the room, and she sprints to get it not remembering that the kitchen floor is slippery for her and she runs into the wall a lot. Once she has finally tamed the ice beast, she can only hold it in her mouth about five seconds before she drops it. And the hunt is back on.

Wedding Time is almost here

2008-05-28T22:23:00.000-06:00

Its May 28th, T-minus 82 days until we get married. I think we've got everything just about done, well Jenna and her mom did most of it. I dabbled here and there and couldn't miss the cake testing. Things are going pretty smoothly still, no bridezilla moments yet. Oh man I'm gonna get it when she reads that. But in all honesty Jenna has been great, her mom has been great my family has been great with all of the wedding stuff! It's so awesome with how busy I am all the time that everyone is really helping.