Missy Time.

I lied.

2012-01-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

Ok so remember how I said no more Disneyland... well I lied.

My parents were in California ... my Annual Pass was still good... and I found a $200 airline ticket. So I flew out at 6am on Saturday and flew home at 10pm on Sunday.

I also wore my Exerspy and did a facebook challenge to see how many steps I took! Turns out 48 hours in Disneyland = 49,891 steps! (roughly 20 miles!)

And bonus it was stil decorated for Christmas! Best. Weekend. Ever.

2011 Recap...

2012-01-02T20:46:00.000-07:00

JANUARY: Missy & Mom trip to Disneyland!

FEBRUARY: I can't remember anything that happened, stupid cold February.

MARCH: Trip to San Fransisco with work, met Patrick from the Biggest Loser and got to be surrounded by people who love their job just as much as I do!

APRIL: Two of my good friends, Jenn & Scott got married and it was the first Temple Sealing I was invited too, such a neat experience! Ran Thanksgiving Point Half Marathon in the snow!

MAY: Moved into the cutest little house and completed another Sprint Triathlon

JUNE: Agreed to run Ragnar 3 days before the race and completed the Bear Lake Half Mararthon.

JULY: Wake boarded... alot.

AUGUST: Celebrated the BIG 27 in style at Disneyland with some of my most favorite friends!

SEPTEMBER: Traveled to Disneyland, again to run the Disneyland half marathon with the sister. [oh and also Drew Carey]

OCTOBER: Completed my 10th Half Marathon, South Jordan, Utah

NOVEMBER: Beginning of Aggie Basketball including a win over BYU!

DECEMBER: Traveled to New York City to see New York decked out for Christmas! Highlight was making it on The Today Show!

Ya I'd say 2011 was a good year!

Here's to 2012 and experiencing

something besides Running and Disneyland!

I heart NYC!

2011-12-19T22:18:00.002-07:00

New York City at Christmas Time is the best!

Not to metion having somoene who knows the city

makes even the Subway enjoyable! THANKS Cel!

Obviously I had to play the BIG PIANO at FAO Schwartz

Central Park was one of my favorites! I had never really seen it before

and I love love loved it!

Being a true tourist at heart I had to have a picture in

Times Square at nighttime!

But one of the true highlights was getting on TV during The Today Show!

Seriously one of the best trips EVER!!!

NYC Baby.

2011-11-07T20:59:00.005-07:00

My NEW BOOTS are so excited for New York City!!!

I'm pretty excited too!

days to remember

2011-11-02T21:07:00.003-06:00

A few weeks ago I had a life changing day at work.

I met a woman who needed help changing, who wanted help changing, who wanted to gain control of her life again and become healthy and happy.

My boss Dan and I, sat down and met with her, learned her story and came up with a plan of action which included her blogging about her journey...

Follow her on her blog, encourage her, let her story inspire you, let her know the good days and the bad days are normal, share your stories with her, tell your friends and family to support her ... lets support one of our own on her pathway to change!

www.myresultsmylife.blogspot.com

These are the days I really really love my job!

Proud Moments,

2011-10-18T21:51:00.004-06:00

Last weekend I completed my 10th half marathon.

I was 20 seconds off a PR, still so happy with my time, only the second time I've been in the 1:40's (I finished with a 1:48.58)

I got 6th in my Age Group

Sometimes I'm so good at focusing on the things I don't have instead of feeling happy with who I am.

When I crossed the Finish Line last weekend I was happy and so proud of myself.

And it felt good.

Life.

2011-10-05T21:57:00.007-06:00

Life is Random... And I felt like blogging so I found some random pics of life lately...

Dinner at my Parents for Erin's Birthday... We had some friends from Thomas' Mission come over too!

My cousin Jen had Baby Maddie, and I love her. And until I get my own little baby I am going to snuggle her as much as Jen allows!

Oh and then last night my roommate and I decided we should go visit our friend in New York City!

So in preparation for our December trip to NYC I am now in the market for a cute new coat and obviously a pair of boots.

60.

2011-09-24T11:06:00.006-06:00

This old man turns the BIG 60 today!

We were at Breakfast and I said, "Hey dad, in 10 years you'll be 70!"

Then he responded, 'Yep and in 10 years you'll be 37."

Talk about ultimate backfire.

Sure do love my dad. alot. Happy Birthday Dad!

On goals.

2011-09-15T19:48:00.003-06:00

So I've got this new goal in mind.

I keep thinking about it but then I get scared.

I really want to plan and train for an Olympic Triathlon or maybe even a Half IronMan.

I used to be scared of Half Marathons-I thought those people were nuts ... but now I love them, maybe I'll feel that way about this?!!

BUT...

I've never swam in Open Water.

I don't have a bike.

Running a half marathon wet makes me cringe.

BUT I still feel intrigued...

Family Girl

2011-09-13T21:34:00.006-06:00

When we were in Cali we took a little jont down to San Diego...

Words can't describe how gorgeous that Temple is!

Oh so grateful for Eternal Families.

Happiest Race on Earth!

2011-09-07T23:23:00.004-06:00

Pics from Disneyland Half Marathon.

Everyone should do this race, it is so much fun!

Here's to 27.

2011-08-16T18:34:00.004-06:00

So me and some girls from work took off for a long weekend at Disneyland to celebrate my birthday!

We had a ton of fun & turns out being 27 in California ROCKS!

Yes I'm going back in 3 weeks to run the Disneyland Half Marathon. Don't Judge.

2011-08-16T18:24:00.004-06:00

Saw this on a friends blog, and loved it.

This should be my new motto...

I used to hate Running. Wierd.

2011-08-07T17:52:00.010-06:00

I ran the Pink Series 10k on Saturday

Took 5th Overall

Got a PR of 48:16 [7:50ish/mile!]

And won some cool prizes

[Such a cool race... it was in honor of cancer patients... it was women only ... everyone was decked out in pink ... started at First Dam and finished at the Marriott ... and I loved it!]

Ya that was a good morning!

Oh baby baby!

2011-07-12T22:53:00.012-06:00

Some of us girls at Abbey's Baby Shower.

I just survived Wedding Season, now on to baby season!

I keep telling everyone there is a prize if they name their child Missy...

So far no one has cashed in so the offer still stands...

15 Never Looked So Good!

2011-07-09T19:43:00.017-06:00

Sports Academy Turns 15!

Have I ever mentioned I kinda like my job?

And by like I mean I'm completely obsessed with it, I love it!

I had one of those days where I realize

how dang lucky I am to work at Sports Academy!

So I thought I'd make a list of some of my favorite things...

THE STAFF are some of my very best friends ... I love going to lunch, playing tennis, shaking it in Zumba, being thrown in the pool, playing Ticket to Ride ... not to mention our Disneyland trip next month. I could hang out with these guys all day long.

BOOT CAMP & TRAINING with Natalie and Patrick! The push me to breaking point but I love that is a sick, twisted way!

PING PONG has become a way we vent, brainstorm, trash talk, and laugh. I'm getting better and its makin the boys nervous!

I GET PAID TO HAVE FUN! Today I hung out at the pool, Monday I'll be doing Rip60 during work ... whether its a BBQ or Easter Egg Hunt or Breakfast with Santa we work hard and play hard!

NEW THINGS I have a boss who lets me try new things and teaches me a lot- I love that! Like today he had me talk on the Radio, my heart was beating so fast but who am I kidding, I LOVED IT!

LITTLE SISTER- I have been named the little sister by Dan and Dan. They tease me alot. alot. alot. Whether its Facebook. throwing me in the pool, make tshirts that say 'Single Rider and Avaliable' for Disneyland, put stuff in my purse, text guys in my phone they do take really good care of me.

MEMBERS- last but not least I LOVE THE SPORTS ACADEMY MEMBERS ... I love getting to know them by name and their kids and their stories! They make my job fun and rewarding!

I'm a lucky, lucky girl!

Mi Casa es tu Casa

2011-07-07T18:38:00.025-06:00

[Check out that Spanish!]

Welcome to my cute little house, let me show you around!

My Backyard. And yes I have mowed the lawn. Twice.
Was kinda fun, I got a workout and a tan, BONUS!

Next Up: My Kitchen.
This was the night of our first BBQ, how festive are we?!

Yes this would be my WALK IN CLOSET! It's a beautful thing.

And here are the cute girls I share this cute little house with!

Do you feel like we just bonded? Ya I felt it too.

Lovin' Summer!

2011-07-03T14:36:00.007-06:00

Stadium of Fire with Brad Paisley? Yes please!

I get so much American Pride at these things... maybe next year I'll wear a Flag Dress like Pollyanna's! Seriously.

[Also look how long my hair is getting!]

Birthday Blues.

2011-06-24T22:09:00.004-06:00

Confession: I realize August is still a month away but I am having a hard time embracing 27.

[Although one friend convinced me it sounded way better than 28]

Anyways I decided to throw myself the best birthday party ever.

Here...

Some of the girls at work and I will be ringing in 25+2 at my home away from home!

Just keep Running...

2011-06-19T16:15:00.003-06:00

I got asked to be on a RAGNAR Team 4 days before the race.

Sure didn't train.

Sure am sore today.

But sure did have a great time!

I think I might be Ragnar'd out... at least for now anyways.

oh hey...

2011-06-14T20:54:00.002-06:00

Yes I remember about this here blog but I turned my computer on one day only to find the blue screen of death, yep my computer sure did crash. Lame. Good thing my work has a lot of tech savy peeps who helped fix it.

Life these last few months have been busy but soso great... So I supose an update is in order:

First, I moved into this adorable little house with 2 of my most favorite friends. We have a yard and a garage and flowers and there are just no words for how in love with it I am!

Second, Running Season is back ... can I get a Hallelujah! Erin and I did the Thanksgiving Point Half Marathon (HARD!) but so fun and so pretty! I just did the Bear Lake Marathon and learned a valuable lesson, when you don't really train that welll turns out 13.1 miles aren't that fun to run. I also yesterday got talked into running RAGNAR this weekend, remember how I just mentioned that not really training part, yikes.

Third, I did a legitimate sprint triathlon! I've done a few up at USU that haven't been that intense but I did the BeWell Joyride Sprint Tri at Sports Academy and I took 2nd in my age group and I learned that running a 5k after biking 12 miles is hard ... I need to get a road bike so I can ride more anyone selling a used one? Seriously.

Oh so many things I want to remember from these past few months... My bestest friend Heather got married, seriously one of the most beautiful brides I have ever seen! I saw Les Miserables, my Dad's favorite book and musical at the Capitol Theater in SLC and it was unbelievable! There are no words for how powerful I thought it was.

I am still in LOVE with my job, lunch break has taken on a new meaning at work ... Lunch Break=Ping Pong... Seriously Ping Pong is taking over my life!

Ok thats all for now, I'm sure there is more I want to remember but thats all for now.

That time of the year!

2011-05-18T19:39:00.009-06:00

Remember this weekend last summer?

Well funny story... My friends Jenn & Scott fell in Love ...

And just became The Twiss' ...

I love them together.

This was my first Temple Sealing which made this an extra great day for me! So happy for Jenn & Scott!

Oh and before they got married we had a little Bachelorette dinner for Jenn, complete with a wedding quiz which I royally failed! I just starting laughing when everyone else did, it was hilarious!

Stay tuned for the details from the other 2 Weddings I've been to this last month.

Tis the season for Love!

I'll always be a Fan.

2011-04-13T20:51:00.004-06:00

Ahhh the Jazz...

A member at Sports Academy has season tickets to the Jazz, and so he gave me his tickets which also happened to be LOWER BOWL... Um hello that was a treat I could get used to!

I think the member that gave me the ticktes told me I was supposed to bring a date.... So I brought the sis!

Such a fun night despite the fact that the Jazz only made 2 baskets in the 4th Quarter. Not cool team, not cool.

Heel toe. heel toe.

2011-04-06T12:35:00.003-06:00

See those adorable yellow heels? Here's the story behind those...

Erin, my Mom and I were at lunch and somehow it was discovered that Erin and I had been asked to speak in Sacrament meeting in our own wards on the same Sunday.

Being the brilliant daughters that we are we somehow convinced my Mom we needed new dresses for such an occasion .... and my mom totally agreed!

Erin discovered the yellow shoes, which was the icing on the cake!

I've never owned a pair of heels before for a couple of reasons ... mainly I hate walking in them, but after a Saturday of walking around saying, 'Heel toe, heel toe, heel toe..." I think I have a new obsession!

Oh man, Erin and I have some good times!

Loved San Fran!

2011-03-19T23:08:00.008-06:00

Just got back from IHRSA Fitness Convention in San Fransisco with some of my co-workers! Fitness is such an addicting industry, I love it ... I loved the classes and I loved the trade show and seeing all the latest and greatest and the big launches coming this year!

I got to meet Patrick from the Biggest Loser, too bad Bob wasn't there I'm pretty sure we would have fallen in love.

We also had some fun outside of the Conference living up San Fran...
Street Car to Fisherman's Warf!

Greg sang the Full House theme song to give me the full experience!

We stopped by Ghirardelli Square for some Hot Fudge Sundays...
Holy Delish!

Then to burn off the Sunday's we hiked up and down the streets of San Fran back to our hotel, including Lombard Road!

Such a good week!

I LOVE MY JOB!!

I believe.

2011-03-14T18:12:00.006-06:00

March Madness has brought some things to my attention:

1. I LOVE Aggie Basketball.

and

2. I HATE, repeat HATE the number 12.

I Believe that We Will Win. GO AGGIES!

Every year I fall for it.

2011-02-22T22:47:00.005-07:00

After that really great 'spring' weather last week I said I wasn't going to complain about the weather anymore this year .... well I lied.

I think I've forgotten what it feels like to run outside.

Sigh. I need Spring to get here asap.

Help me please!

2011-02-19T18:48:00.002-07:00

So I need your help, this company 'FreeMotion Fitness' is doing a facebook challenge.

Whoever can get the most of their friends to 'like' their FreeMotion Facebook page and then write on their facebook wall, "I like FreeMotion because of Missy Buttars" wins a treadmill!

And not just any treadmill .... an at home incline trainer that retails fr $2500!!!

Please help me win! I figure I give stuff away on Sports Academy's facebook all the time ... maybe one of these days I can win!!!!

If you already voted ... Thanks ... If I win you can come run on my treadmill!

my happy place.

2011-02-03T20:48:00.006-07:00

Disneyland is seriously the BEST ... I never get sick of it!

It was 81 degrees ... I went running every morning ... and I had a permanant smile on my face!

We had some firsts ... Like Indiana Jones broke down while we were on the ride! Like emergency lights flashed on, we sat in the ride for 15 minutes, I was hoping we would get to Exit through some secret Disney passage but they got the ride working again and let us stay on and ride again.

Ahhh Disney, they never disappoint.

Supportive Daughter.

2011-01-15T18:33:00.015-07:00

My mom HATES [with a capital H] winter.

She needs/wants some sunshine.

She made a suggestion. I supported it.

So we'll soon be back here ... our home away from home.

Lacing up the sneakers.

2011-01-03T21:22:00.006-07:00

Me and the sis just signed up for a half marathon.
[Thanksgiving Point / April 30, 2011]

Running just became a Family affair.

My Merry Little Christmas.

2011-01-02T17:39:00.011-07:00

The Holidays in pictures....

Chrismas Party with the Buttars' ... my cousins girls Ava & Gracie

Opening Christmas Presents from the Fam Christmas Eve ... Thomas sent home Arizona gear, I've already started wearing that shirt with pride.

Jensen Christmas Party ... Waiting for the kiddos to get in costume for the reading of the Christmas story. This year we had princesses and fairies as well as sheperds and everything else. Classic.

Dinner with our adopted family the Lamberts! Sure do love that family.

Christmas with the family was great ...

Here's to 2011!

Pure Joy.

2010-12-22T21:07:00.002-07:00

I got to help deliver Christmas to a family in need tonight.

Seeing the 4, 7 & 11 year old jump up and down in excitement and the Mom look around confused ... will be a memory I keep with me forever.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Obsessed? Maybe.

2010-12-13T21:14:00.004-07:00

Ok so here's the sitch...

I have wanted to read this book forever but I had too much pride to buy a 'self help' book ...

[so my cousin, Jen bought it for me]

... and let me tell you I LOVE THIS BOOK!

Easy read, so inspiring and so fun to get a little glimpse into my fav show, The Biggest Loser!

[Speaking of the BL, I hope Ada wins tomorrow]

party hardy.

2010-12-08T20:35:00.007-07:00

Last night was our Annual Front Desk Christmas Party and white elephant gift exchange ...

My favorite present was the Popi t-shirt that said, "Your Halls are gonna get decked!"

ahhhh such a good time ...

I've got some great employees who make me love my job that much more! Thanks for everything guys!

game on.

2010-11-30T19:21:00.008-07:00

I know my last post was about how much I love it here...
and I do, so I am not going to complain.

I'm just going to beat mother nature.

So I'm installing an automatic car starter this week.

-17 in November is ridiculous.

Mother Nature 0, Missy 1.

Ha.

We. are. Family.

2010-11-14T20:03:00.007-07:00

Aren't my parent's the cutest? I sure do love my fam.

I was recently reminded of how much I love this wonderful valley of Cache. My old boss called to encourage me to apply for a job in Santa Barbara, so I did, and I interviewed, and then I realized I didn't want to leave.

I might talk a big talk about living in the California Sun ... BUT ... I love Logan, I love Sports Academy and I really love being close to family. This journey was a good one for me to go through because I needed to realize what I wanted, and for now, my life is in Logan, and I couldn't be happier!

I love my life!

Friends are the Best

2010-11-07T12:32:00.009-07:00

I haven't laughed this much in a long time. It felt good.

This girl couldn't ask for better friends.
I love you all, alot.

Domesticated? Not quite.

2010-10-24T18:50:00.004-06:00

So turns out making Carmel Apples is tough.

At this point we were still thinking how simple this was going to be... we had everything set out ready to go, Carmel boiling on the stove not too tricky right?! Wrong, oh so wrong.

Then all of a sudden the Carmel was ready and so we started putting the toppings on but before we knew it the Carmel was hardening and was dripping off the bottom, candy included....

Although these ones didn't look like the pictures from the magazine we were still mighty proud of our finished product.

Man trying to be a little Martha Stewart is tricky business.

Columbus Day

2010-10-11T20:17:00.005-06:00

So my friend calls and says ...

"Happy Columbus Day! Remember how Columbus discovered the Earth was round, Pizza is round, wanna go to lunch!"

Brilliant if you ask me, I think I'll make it a Columbus day tradition!

embracing technology

2010-10-09T15:52:00.004-06:00

So after 3 1/2 years of keeping my life organized its time to say farewell to my beloved phone ... and hello to this little beauty.

So far my new little Palm Pre just looks pretty ... I haven't actually figured out how to use it just yet.

Lucky Girl.

2010-09-30T12:15:00.005-06:00

Today I feel oh so blessed.
I couldn't ask for a better family.

LOVE THEM!

Disneyland Half Marathon!

2010-09-09T13:44:00.004-06:00

Words cannot express how much fun this race was!

They give all the participants a disposable camera and have characters out along the course along with tons of cheer groups, marching bands, Polynesian dancers, mariachi bands... there were so many things to look at and listen to that I ran the whole race without my ipod!

Ahhh Disney... they never seem to disappoint.

over and out

2010-09-01T19:12:00.003-06:00

Disneyland half marathon time ... finally!

BWLD

2010-08-26T19:35:00.005-06:00

Buttars. Women. Lunch. Date.

Nothing makes the week better than chillin with my mom and sis over a little sandwich and diet coke.

Countdown

2010-08-15T12:48:00.007-06:00

9 Days: Mocking Jay is Released
[Hunger Games Series]

20 Days: Disneyland Half Marathon
[along with 6 days in California!]

360 Days: My Birthday!
[Thanks for all the Birthday Wishes, I had the best day!]

Ahhhh Life is Good.

Flood Season.

2010-08-12T17:34:00.006-06:00

We took Thomas to the MTC, and holy smokes I'm not sure how the flood gates got opened but I could not stop them ... I bawled like a little baby!

We've heard from him a few times and he is doing SO good and is SO happy! I thought if anyone were to get homesick it was gonna be Thomas, he's such a home body, but he's happy where he is!

When I read his letters I feel like they're from my OLDER brother, he sounds so grown up! I love it! I miss him, but I am so proud of him.

I'm prepared and ready to spoil this little missionary of ours ...
Good Luck Elder Buttars!

My Kind of Southern Voice

2010-08-04T20:43:00.010-06:00

I love Country.
I love Tim McGraw.
And I loved this Night.

Ole!

2010-07-28T22:14:00.004-06:00

So we went to a REAL Soccer Game.

Turns out I'm a fan.

And Bonus I found a replacement for Kyle Korver. He is number 4, his name is Jamison Olave and he is beautiful.

nerd alert

2010-07-23T22:30:00.003-06:00

I've read some good books lately... you should check these out.

You should also send me your good reads.

I heart summer.

2010-07-17T15:09:00.009-06:00

Ahhh Summer...
I have been soaking up my fair share of sunshine, thats for sure!

Between my cousins and my friends I've been getting better at wakeboarding! I even jumped and landed it! Wahoo! I love knowing people who share their fun toys!

And then my and my cousins spent a day at Seven Peaks

SO. MUCH. FUN!

I just thought about how it will soon be winter again and I got depressed!

I need to move to California.

Weak in the Knees!

2010-07-13T13:18:00.004-06:00

I love Cupcakes! I'm obsessed with them!

My latest baking experiment included cookie dough [one of my staples in life].

I added a cookie dough to my cupcakes ... I filled the bottom first, added a mini cookie dough drop then covered it with more batter and baked it for 15 minutes instead of 20-25 like the box said.

Anyways they were so fun to make so I thought I would share!

I've also added a whole oreo too which is fun! With the oreo cupcakes I smashed up oreo's and added them to the buttercream frosting.

I did forget to document one thing... my diet coke.

Cupcakes and diet coke, heaven.

More Running.

2010-07-10T17:50:00.022-06:00

Are you sick of hearing about my running?

Steph and I ran the Salt Lake City Freedom Half Marathon! I was really excited because I got a PR on the hardest course I've ever done... I ran a 1:48.33!!

This is Dane Rauschenberg, we met him at the race and got a copy of his book, 'See Dane Run.' Its about how he ran 52 Marathons in 52 Weeks! CRAZY!!!!

Steph and I decided this is how a race weekend should be ... we went shopping, ate at Macaroni Grill, stayed at Little America and layed at the pool all day after our race!

Unless I add another race in August, next on the Calendar:
DISNEYLAND HALF MARATHON!!!

Cracked me right up.

2010-07-07T22:15:00.014-06:00

So I buy a pack of Extra Gum right?
[Yes I buy Extra Gum because of Biggest Loser, don't judge.]

Anyways I open my Green Spearment Gum and inside the box it says, "No Spears were injured in the making of this gum!"

OH MY HECK I PRACTICALLY BUSTICATED at the seams from LAUGHING SO HARD!

Are those the kind of things I should keep to myself?

Mighty Proud.

2010-07-04T12:59:00.007-06:00

The American Flag reminds me of my Grandpa Jensen, he used to get so frustrated when he would see someone not respecting the Flag. He taught me the meaning of the Flag and I've always treasured that simple lesson.

In a letter to home from WWII my Grandpa wrote ...

"We had a parade here for the 4th of July for the people on the Island. There is a thrill about being in a parade that is unlike anything else. Flags flying, the band playing. It really makes a fellow proud that he is an American and doing what little he can."

I'm mighty proud of my Grandpa and all those who have faught and are still fighting for our freedom.

Happy 4th!

Take me back to California Please.

2010-07-01T22:34:00.010-06:00

Had a little BBQ with some of my most favorite friends... We all met working together at the Family Vacation Center in Santa Barbara, California! Those were some good times...

The night started out with Boche Ball Domination by me and Beck.

Then the boys busted out the fireworks, have I mentioned I am TERRIFIED of fire!!!!! I blame it on Rescue 911, I watched that show one too many times as a child.

Needless to say America's Birthday is not my favorite holiday. So I have no problem with being on the sideline.

BUT.........

The highlight of the night was seeing this girl... Laura Mei and I worked together at the Family Vacation Center in Santa Barbara and the last time I saw her was at her and Beck's amazing Long Beach Sunset Wedding last summer...

Loved this night.

The one with all the Running

2010-06-22T22:01:00.006-06:00

I learned something this week... This race we call RAGNAR is best described as a love/hate relationship.

There were things I loved about it...

[Being part of a team, crossing the finish line, being around friends I hadn't seen for awhile, laughing all the time, creating crazy random memories, seeing some beautiful scenery, my sweet medal...]

And then there were things I didn't love...

[the lack of sleep, running and then not being able to shower, the honey buckets, the reflector vests, running up the mountain in the heat]

All in all it was a good experience and an awesome accomplishment, and I'm proud to say I did it!

And if we are being honest, I wouldn't be shocked if I'm begging to be on a team again next year.

I had an awesome team, [Team Love because Amanda & Dustin fell in love during Ragnar last year] complete with awesome shirts designed by the one and only Millie!

To quote the shirt and Meatloaf it says, "I'd do anything for Love I would run right into Hell and Back"

It was a weekend for the books thats for sure.

Surprise Visitor

2010-06-20T21:51:00.008-06:00

I walked in a few minutes late to Church today [don't judge, we all do it] and I saw a familiar face sitting on the stand. I thought to myself, 'Elder Cook has an identical twin, he wouldn't be here!' turned out to be the Elder Cook!

Elder Cook was in town and showed up at my ward, what a treat. He spoke to us and reflected on Fathers Day, his Father and our Country's founding fathers and the fathers and mothers we are striving to become. What a simple reminder of how true the Gospel is and how blessed we are to have it in our lives.

How special it was to be in the presence of a Prophet, Seer & Revelator.

Speaking of Fathers...

Words cannot express how much I love my Dad.

Happy Fathers Day Dad!

Final Countdown

2010-06-16T22:53:00.003-06:00

Ragnar is right around the corner and I'm starting to get anxious, nervous, scared, pumped ... you name it I'm feeling it.

Any advice is welcome... [especially if you know anything about the legs for runner #12]

the best day

2010-06-13T08:55:00.005-06:00

June 9, 2010 will be a special day to me and my fam, it was the day all 5 were in the Temple together.

I think we're a pretty good lookin' group if I do say so myself.

playing & playing hard!

2010-06-06T23:01:00.011-06:00

Some friends and I went up to Bear Lake for the weekend, it started out chilly but I came home with a little sunburn ... we went boating, fired up the barbe, played volleyball, dominated a couple of rounds of nerts (ok fine I didn't win), ate way too many treats and laughed alot.

The water was 58 degrees, I didn't realize how cold that really was until I jumped in! Turns out 58 degrees is pretty chilly, but once I was in I had way too much pride to get out!

First wakeboarding session of the year was a success, my goal for this summer is to figure out how to jump!

Such a fun weekend, I wish we could do it every week!

Bear Lake Baby

2010-06-05T09:03:00.007-06:00

Peace Out ... time for some Bear Lake fun.

Now if the sunshine would just come out and stay out...

Best.Trip.Ever.

2010-05-30T19:05:00.012-06:00

Here are pics from trip, I loved it, I want to go back asap.

National Mall. Smithsonians. Tour of Capital. Newseum. Nationals Archives. Arlington. Gettysburg. Hershey Factory. Alexandria [mom's old stomping ground]. Drive through Baltimore [gave a shout-out to Michael Phelps]. Mount Vernon. Washinton DC Temple.

And I am filled, yet again, with lots of American Pride!

Family Vaca Perfection

2010-05-26T20:50:00.008-06:00

This trip my true obsession was with my dear friend Honest Abe.

I read a book about this fella before I went back east, "Love is Eternal" by Irving Stone. And I fell in love with Abe & Mary Todd.

If anyone were to ask me who I'd want to meet from the past my answer would be Abraham and Mary Lincoln. Read his story you'll fall in love with them too... man they went through the ringer and back but I found it so endearing...

Anyways... the trip was wonderful more pictures a comin'

Party in the USA

2010-05-17T21:49:00.007-06:00

I'm headed here...

With some of my most favorite people on the planet...

Our last family vaca was to Hawaii before Erin left on her mish ...

Thomas has brilliantly convinced my parents that we need to take another family trip before he leaves on his mish. Being that he is a big history buff ... DC here we come!

I can't wait to be filled with that American Pride that being on the East Coast brings ... don't be shocked if I come home singing Yankee Doodle Dandy ALL DAY LONG!

Addicted.

2010-05-13T21:34:00.012-06:00

I've got a serious problem. I am addicted to running. I have no idea where it came from and why I love it, but I can't seem to get enough.

Ogden. Half. Marathon.

I finished in 1:56, my best time was at the TOU last year with a 1:53 ... I was hoping to run faster but not much I can do about that now ... next time.

I guess Running is my drug of choice.

Step 1:

2010-05-10T22:25:00.004-06:00

Buy the Fabric. Check.

I've decided to dust off my Grandma's sewing machine and learn a new skill. Quilting. Wish me luck, and maybe you should wish my friend Jessica [aka the teacher] good luck too.

Stay tuned for the completion of Step 2.

Some things never get old...

2010-05-07T20:52:00.000-06:00

Does anyone else miss Ross & Rachel?

You've Got Mail

2010-05-01T16:49:00.009-06:00

Phoenix, Arizona Mission

English Speaking

Enters the MTC August 4th

He Can't wait!

So it will be easier to send him stuff because he is in the States... I'm already plotting and pretty confident that I am going to soar into first place as the favorite sibling!

[P.S. It's May? Seriously? Where has the time gone?]

My Ode to Sports Academy...

2010-04-27T23:23:00.008-06:00

So funny story...

I was playing this game with my cousins called 'True Colors.' Ever played it? Well to summarize its a game where no one holds back [especially when you play with family]. Anything goes, and you basically tell each other what you really think!

This question came up ... 'Who here talks about their job the most even though no one cares!' and guess who won? Sweeping the board none the less.

So it's no secret that I love my job, and I recently went to a conference in San Diego with some of my co-workers, it was so fun to be around so many people who live and breath health and fitness... what an addicting industry.

[Me & Natalie at the Trade Show in San Diego! Natalie also happens to be my trainer and one of my most favorite people on the planet!]

Waiting Game

2010-04-20T21:49:00.003-06:00

Guess whose Mission Papers are Officially in...

Crazy how time flies, it seems like yesterday Thomas was chasing me around with grasshoppers he caught in the dirt-hills.

Oh he is gonna be such a good missionary ... there are a lot of people out there who have no idea how lucky and blessed they are gonna be by a certain Elder Buttars.

LOVE YOU THOMAS!

[I'm NOT a crier but I may or may not have been blinking double-time while writing this post to keep it that way.]

just a thought...

2010-04-17T19:38:00.011-06:00

I'm such a little copy-cater but I saw this quote on my friend Chelsea's blog from Sister Marjorie Pay Hinckley and I can't get it out of my head...

"I don't want to drive up to the pearly gates in a shiny sports car, wearing beautifully, tailored clothes, my hair expertly coiffed, and with long, perfectly manicured fingernails. I want to drive up in a station wagon that has mud on the wheels from taking kids to scout camp. I want to be there with a smudge of peanut butter on my shirt from making sandwiches for a sick neighbors children. I want to be there with a little dirt under my fingernails from helping to weed someone's garden. I want to be there with children's sticky kisses on my cheeks and the tears of a friend on my shoulder. I want the Lord to know I was really here and that I really lived."

[Just a little food for thought]

Don't say I never told you...

2010-03-30T13:33:00.009-06:00

So I had an incredible day last week, I went through the Temple. I met some of my family down in South Jordan and went through the Jordan River Temple. My grandma's family donated the land for the Jordan River Temple and it's always been special to me and my family.

I didn't tell very many people and I wasn't going to blog about it but I've had a lot of my friends confused as to why I didn't tell them.... whelp, I'm telling you now!

I'm have a strong testimony of Temple work and of Eternal Families and I'm so grateful for the blessings the Temple brings.

Clearly the highlight of the day was going through the Temple but

In-N-Out for dinner came in a strong second... My mom said I could choose anywhere I wanted and all I wanted was a hamburger and french fries ... I didn't even feel guilty!

Such a great day!

Out on the Town

2010-03-25T23:51:00.008-06:00

LOVE LOVE LOVED THIS ... It just cracked me right up!

Oh and one more thing, "Whoever said tangerine was the new pink was seriously disturbed."

Real Life Magic.

2010-03-19T20:14:00.006-06:00

"Here you leave behind today--and enter the world of yesterday, tomorrow and fantasy!" --Walt Disney

Such a fun trip and BONUS I was the only girl ... plus I got my Disney fix!

Would you be shocked if I told you I already have my flight and hotel for my next Disney trip?! My friend Steph and I are headed back in September to run the Disneyland Half Marathon!

karma

2010-03-18T00:17:00.004-06:00

Guess where I just came from... more pictures displaying my permanent smile coming soon!

whatcha thinkin?

2010-03-09T21:03:00.007-07:00

Anyone care to share their thoughts on how this crazy show will end...

Yes they are answering many of my questions, however they are creating more questions ... so I'm not getting any closer to understanding this insane show!!

2010-03-04T08:33:00.010-07:00

Dear Mickey & Minnie,

I'm sorry I haven't been to visit you lately, I'm working on it.
See you soon.

your bff, missy

Coming out of hibernation

2010-03-01T19:23:00.003-07:00

So last October my trainer Natalie decided that at 5:30am she was going to have me run 4 miles! Needless to say I was not amused, at 37 degrees I was positive it was way too cold...

For the last month I have been checking the weather to see if it would finally get to 37 degrees so I could run outside and Saturday was the day! I planned to run a 6 mile loop but I was enjoying myself way too much so 9 miles later I decided to call it good...

Who would've ever thought I would fall in love with running? Not me! But what is even more shocking is given my love [which is code for hate] of winter I ran 9 miles outside in February!

Peace out Winter. I'm sooooo over you.

Before & After Pics

2010-02-12T18:02:00.007-07:00

This...

... turned into this ....

... which turned into this ....

do I dare...

2010-02-09T22:12:00.016-07:00

... cut my hair?

I love my long hair but I'm thinking maybe its time for change [and not the Obama kind of change] ... what to do, what to do???

Everything Disney

2010-01-24T19:17:00.009-07:00

Its no secret I'm a fan of Disney...
and its no suprise that I loved this movie!

And while we are on the Disney Subject. I feel as though I should inform you that when Disney says their movie's are going back in the vault they aren't messing around! You can't buy them anywhere!

So if you're a fan of 101 Dalmations, Jungle Book or Sleeping Beauty I suggest you purchase those before January 30 or you'll have to wait another 8 years ... I'm just saying...

mine all mine...

2010-01-14T21:12:00.012-07:00

I don't think I'm supposed to be this in love with material things! But its my first big purchase ...

... and I just wanna drive her all night long! Seriously though isn't she a beauty.

She does need a name so if y'all could help me out with that, that would be great!

Inspired

2010-01-05T22:40:00.012-07:00

After seeing this ...

I have decided to improve my cooking skills.

[chalk it up as a New Years Resolution if you will]

So tonight I made this...

Healthified Chicken Tortilla Casserole!!

[serves 8 and only has 270 calories a serving ... which helps out with other New Years resolutions]

1 can (10.75oz) 98% fat free cream of chicken soup

1 can (4.5oz) chopped green chilies

1 container (8oz) fat free sour cream

1/2 Cup skim milk

2 1/2 Cups shredded chicken-cooked

8 yellow corn tortillas-torn into bite size pieces

1 med. green pepper-chopped

1 large tomato-chopped

1 1/2 C chredded cheese-mexican blend

1. In large bowl mix soup, chilies, sour cream & milk

2. Stir in Chicken, torn tortillas & pepper

3. Stir in tomatos & 1 Cup cheese

4. Spoon into 9x13 dish

5. Cover & bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes

6. Uncover, 1/2 Cup of cheese

7. Bake uncovered 5-10 minutes until cheese melts

... and Wa-lah!!

Try it, it's delish if I do say so myself.

Calling all Gamers...

2009-12-27T23:12:00.007-07:00

Recently this game was brought into my life...

And I can't seem to get enough, I LOVE THIS GAME!

... It's hard to remember what life was like before...

Sick Day.

2009-12-17T17:00:00.005-07:00

I was up all night sick so I called in sick to work ... then I slept the day away ... and when I woke up I felt so lazy I went and registered for the Ogden Half Marathon

I have 4 months to figure out if this was a good idea.

ya gotta love it baby

2009-12-07T21:52:00.005-07:00

And yes I am sporting a little Kyle Korver Pride, and yes I know he is injured but I'm still a fan!

I'm anxiously awaiting for the year the Jazz don't break my heart.

GO JAZZ!

Aggie Pride

2009-12-03T19:29:00.010-07:00

I'm proud to be an Aggie...

and after last night ...

I'm REALLY proud to be an Aggie

So Thankful...

2009-11-25T21:10:00.015-07:00

So here's the thing...
I seriously LOVE my family...
I just moved back home for a few months until my new place is ready...
AND I LOVE IT!!

Amanda's Big Day

2009-11-13T23:51:00.007-07:00

Such a beautiful wedding day! Always fun to see a friend SO happy!

Congrats Amanda & Dustin!

And a little sista love ... man I love this girl

Boo!!

2009-11-08T01:24:00.010-07:00

This Halloween called for Double Duty...

I went from this

[work contest]

to this

[Melissa's Disney Costume Party]

back to this

[Joined here by Dr. Love]

The Countdown to next Halloween has begun... ok not really for me but Cruella has already started planning what to do next year...

Can I decorate for Christmas Already?!!

Check this out...

2009-10-30T14:27:00.010-06:00

Introducing MY DAD ... the Rocket Scientist!

This was taken on the launch pad before the Ares 1-X took off!
Seriously so rad...

Movin' on Up

2009-10-22T19:08:00.013-06:00

This weekend marks the end of an era...

Amanda is movin' out and movin' on up from a Miss to a Mrs.
Dustin is a lucky lucky man...

I'm a slave for you

2009-10-14T17:33:00.007-06:00

So my newest toy is called the Excerspy ... this fancy smancy little thing measures my activity level which is code for how many calories I'm burning!

The beauty of it is that I get credit for everything I do like taking out the garbage, vacuuming and being on my feet all day at work! On average I burn 2900 calories a day [what blows my mind is I think the Biggest Loser contestants try and get up to 6000]!

Anyways if you're looking for something to get you excited about exercise you should try this puppy out ... we're offering a killer rate for them at Sports Academy so seriously call me if you're in the market for a new toy.

Today is one of those days...

2009-09-28T17:25:00.005-06:00

... I'm wishin' I was here!

No Offense

2009-09-20T00:48:00.007-06:00

... but my family is cooler than yours!

But really... isn't this a fun picture of the the sibs? Love them.

girls night out

2009-09-13T21:15:00.012-06:00

You better believe we went and saw our BFF Keith Urban for girls night out. Why wouldn't we?

Such a fun night! And with Jazz Season right around the corner it felt good to back in the ESA!

Hard, Crazy & Fun mixed together

2009-09-08T16:37:00.020-06:00

Can I brag for a moment? My workout chica [Steph] and I ran the Top of Utah Half Marathon! My goal was to go under 2 hours and thanks to fact the course was mostly downhill I ran it in 1 hour & 54 minutes!

My support team ... I kinda like these two ...

August Rocks!

2009-08-18T19:38:00.022-06:00

Oh so much to share ...

Here's some of the highlights

I turned 25... which is mid 20's which is practically 30! Wowzers!

[it was a fantastic birthday]

I'm no longer sisterless...

[As promised I tackled her in the airport]

Road Tripped to Cali with the fam for
Laura Mei & Beck's Wedding ... so beautiful

Got my Disney Fix

Check out the shirt my boss' made for me ... they thought I was crazy for going to Disneyland by myself! I was told, "Don't bother coming back to work without a picture of You & Mickey in the shirt!" ... Minnie had a shorter line and I was only wearing that shirt as long as necessary!

Oh and I have no shame in admitting that I loved doing Disneyland by myself! [the rest of my fam secretly wishes they would have come too, instead they were off visiting peeps from Erin's Mish]

... Anyways August has been very very good to me ...

Addicted.

2009-08-02T17:48:00.012-06:00

Recently I've been introduced to LOST
I think its a love/hate relationship

I'm half way through Season 2 (which has included 2 nightmares)
and I still keep going back for more. They one thing I am sure about is ... these writers are NUTS!