[.someday is not a day of the week.]

What did you do in 2011 that you have never done before?

Well let's just say I've never graduated college before, and I did that:)

I worked my freaking butt off my last year of school.  There was never a minute where I wasn't doing anything.

I shot my first new born sessions with my cute neice and nephew.

I landed the job of my dreams at Lifelong Fitness.

I ran my first half marathon.

I ran my first 10k dirty dash race.

I ran my first 5k midnight run.

I purchased an 8 week old pup.

I went to girls camp, not as a youth.

I put red in my hair.

I burned a textbook!

I purchased an expensive camera.

I said "see you in two years" to my little brother.

Did you keep your New Year's Resolutions and will you make more for 2011?

Well, I kept most of them and I will always make more.

What countries did you visit this year?

Only the one I live in.

What would you like to have in 2012 that you lacked in 2011?

.More love for certain people in my life.

.A better relationship with my Savior.

.No more tuition payments.

.An iphone.

What day will be etched in your memory?

The day Jake left to the MTC.

The day I found out I was pregnant.

The moment I knew I miscarried.

The day I got a 34% on a test.

The day I graduated.

What was your biggest struggle this year?

Trying to mend some broken relationships.

What was your biggest achievement this year?

Obvious.  December 9, 2011.

What was the best thing you bought this year?

Rudy!!

Where did most of your money go?

Still going towards rent, car payment, and tuition!

What did you get really excited about this year?

Signing up for races!

What songs will remind you of 2011?

Party Rock Anthem

Sexy and I know it

Look at me now

(embarrassing post to come)

Just a Kiss

Honey Bee

Compared to last year, are you: much happier, much nicer, or richer?

Happier and hopefully nicer, I'm hoping one day to be richer but I'm happy for now.

What do you wish you had done more of?

Writing Jake.  Reading.

What do you wish you had done less of?

Procrastinating.

Did you fall in love this year?
Not only more in love with Lance but also with the feeling I get after a killer workout.

What was your favorite television program of 2011?

Freakin Vampire Diaries.What did you want and get this year?

A Camera :)

What was the best movie you saw this year?

Crazy Stupid Love

Real Steel

and I can't wait to see

The Vow

What did you do for your birthday and how old did you turn?

Had a few celebrations for dinner and turned 23.

What would have made your year more satisfying?

Having more cute workout clothes!!

How would you describe your personal fashion statement this year? 

Besides workout clothes, I occasionally wear jeans and a normal shirt.  Next year my goal is to be more fashionable :)

What kept you sane this year?

Faith. It always keeps me going knowing that things will be okay and turn out how they are supposed to. It's normally one thing after the other so if I didn't trust that it'd be okay, I probably wouldn't be okay.

Lance also helped in this area.  He has been the one to deal with my insanity during the semesters.

What celebrity did you fancy most this year?

Stefan....oh I meant, Paul Wesley

 :)

Hello there sexy!

Who did you miss this year?
Jake.

Who were the best new people you met this year?
Lets go with Amanda and her cute family.
Also, Reagan Amy Fischer and Harrison Mathias Fischer!
And Jenna.. I met her long before, but this year I've really gotten to know her :)

What is a valuable lesson you learned this year?

I've learned many lessons this year and sure I will just keep learning more.
I know that everything happens for a reason, and the Lord knows exactly what he's doing. You can't control life, you can only live it. You cannot appreciate the good in life without having the bad. Happiness is a choice. Don't let failure go to your heart, and don't let success go to your head. The truth always comes out, so you might as well start with it from the beginning. And, people are gonna talk, so give them something to talk about.

An excuse is worse and more terrible than a lie.

Change your thoughts, change your world.

Awareness and ego cannot coexist.

.My Resolutions for 2012.

focus more on others

establish a strong[er]  savings

keep the house clean

be more organized, and this time I really mean it.

Have a new experience

Run more races

Not only make homemade meals, but make them healthy and not only healthy but enjoyable [mostly for lance]

make my own gym shirts

pass my CPT test

{communicate with my Father in Heaven daily}

maintain a healthy life[style]

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas!  Ours was the usual, running from place... to place... to place every two hours...

[.too many disappointments are usually a sign of too many expectations.]

We started off the Christmas season by going ice skating with Jenna and Katie and going to see the lights down at Temple Square with my family.  

It was a little difficult to try and get my leg up on skates, so I used a little assistance!

Just took the pup for an hour long walk down legacy trail...Have you ever tried to pull back 85 pounds chasing after a flock of flying birds??  I'm sure someone got a few laughs.

Being out of school I feel lazy.  I don't want to do anything.  I feel like all I've done is go-go-go now it is nice to just sit and enjoy some lazy time watching Vampire Diaries.

[.go confidently in the direction of your dreams and live the life you have imagined.]

[.saying some goodbyes]

(this is not a duplicate post, it just may seem like it)

Dear Highway 89 - 

I've seen you almost everyday for the last 5 years and I think it is time we go our seperate ways.  You've caused many miles on my cars, which only equals out to be money, in gas.  We can still be friends, it just might be more like aquaintences.  I can't thank you enough for watching over me and saving my butt from speeding tickets.  So long.

Dear parking pass -

You've been by my side for about 1825 days.  You've put up with my singing outbursts, have heard many phone conversations and no matter your mood, you're always purple.  I'm sorry to say, this is where our relationship must end and i'm glad to never see you again.  I know that was harsh.  I hope you understand.

Dear tuition payments - 

I must say you make me proud.  Proud in two ways; one, to know that you are over, and two to proudly admit that I never needed a student loan for you.  I'm pretty sure that is the only reason I ever liked you.  Yep, it is.

Dear Weber State University - 

You've given me new people in my life that I will never forget and I can't thank you enough for that.  I appreciate your honesty in letting me know how stupid or forgetful I can be at times.  You've taught me more than enough times the meaning of patience and discipline.  You will forever be a memory.

Love these girls to pieces!
Bachelors of Science in Human Performance Management with an emphasis in Wellness and Nutrition minor.

I think this is funny

Not only did I get my Bachelors but Jenna got her Associates!

Grateful to have him support me through all thirteen semesters of college.  He put up with a one ornery Kendra when my procrastination habits kicked in!

Happened frequently.

I'm grateful to all those who came and supported me as well.

I will post more pictures when I get them from other people.

Now that I'm finished, I spent all day yesterday on a "shopping spree" for myself.  When I have money burning in my pocket I somehow can't find one thing I want.  Therefore ended up spending it to get my Christmas shopping done for good!  Then to end the day went and bought myself some new kicks!  Now I can enjoy the Christmas season!

How could I forget??

Dear Rudy-

Now that Mama is done, she can spend less time on the computer and more time hiking, running and playing tug-a-war with you!

I sure love the men in my life!

[.a person who never made a mistake, never tried anything new.]

It's up!  My tree is finally decorated!  After about an hour of putting up the lights 2 strands decided to go out on me.  So since the last weekend in November my poor tree sat there with non-working strands hanging off the tree.  Now, without loads of homework, I finally finished it.  I decided to try something different this year, so unfortunately our red and green stockings and skirt don't match our cute glittery bright ornaments.  Maybe next year.

Anyway, I still love it :)

With orange peels and cinnamon boiling on the stove, it smells like Christmas.

[.you can't judge my choices without knowing my reasons.]

Today has been a crazy day.  I had just fallen asleep about midnight last night (yes that is very late for me just ask Jenna ;) when I was startled at 1:10 am when Rudy went busting to the front door to see what was going on barking like crazy.  Lance and I figured it was just from the wind.  All through the night Rudy and I were wide awake hoping our house would stay put on the ground.  I finally got out of bed around 5:45, the first thing I heard before I even got out the door was lance saying, "Don't get blown away."  I walked outside to start my car, Rudy's dog house was in a completely different spot, the bbq grill was flipped over, all 4 garbage cans were tipped upside down and leaves were flying everywhere.  Luckily I made it to work dodging tree branches along the way.  On the way home I felt like I was back on my honeymoon in our cruise ship because my car was rocking back and forth so badly!  As I sat at the street light at my exit, I prayed they would not land on me.  They were swaying at least 3 or 4 feet.  I finally made it home and the power was still out from when I left, the house was starting to get cold, and I was really dreading going to school, so I made the decision to opt out.  Right after my class had started, I received voice mails and texts galore informing me that there was too much debris and to stay sheltered.  So that I did...kinda.  Lance and I went for a drive to go down to his parents and ended up turning around the wind was so bad.  Trees were falling over, flag poles were bent in half, power lines were flying over our car, semis tipped over blocking the freeway, shingles flying past our heads, the list goes on.  I had so much homework to get done and no internet connection (or even computer power for that matter) whatsoever.  I was somewhat okay with taking the day completely off but still really wanted to get my homework done.  So I was grateful my clients wanted the day off as well so I could go down with lance to his parents, and that way I would at least have a computer, let alone internet.  Needless to say, I'm glad to be alive and have a house that is still attached to its foundation.


In other news, tomorrow is my last day of class!  Then all I have is 2 finals and I'm done.  Freaking done.


Thanksgiving was fun.  It was just me this year since Lance had to work and it was my dad's year.  So I went down a little early to help set up for about 20-30 people to come over.  It was absolutely scrumptious!


Last night, Randy took us to the Aggies basketball game!  Unfortunately they lost but it was still lots of fun.  Claire was as cute as could be cheering for her team.  Aaaannndd, Lance bought me some cinnamon roasted almonds. Mmm.  I was a happy camper.

[.gratitude turns what we have, into enough.]

This morning my heart hurt for someone.  Hurt so much that I cried.  I did not cry because I was hurt, but because they are sad, and all I want is for that person to be happy.  It made me realized how blessed I am to have those in my life that I do.  I want to let those around me know that I appreciate them.  I never truly know how to express myself in person and feel it is easier when I can write it down.
(In alphabetical order, cause I'm weird like that)


Dear Braydon,
I can't believe how grown up you are!  I remember when you were so tiny and had dark spiky hair!  I'm so proud of you and the decisions you have already made in your life!  Thank you for always giving me hugs when I come to visit.  It makes me feel important.  Love you tons little bro!


Dear Brittney,
I can't even begin to tell you how much you  mean to me.  I'm so glad we are friends.  Even when it has been months of not seeing each other, it seems like we start right where we left off.  I admire your strength, in more ways than one.  I love you and want to thank you for being in my life.


Dear Brooky aka. bubba ganoosh,
I just learned last week that baba ganoush is a food, and thought of you :]  You have grown up to be quite the little girly girl and I am proud to be your big sister.  When I was younger I always wanted a little sister to do her hair and nails and now you are almost 7 years old and will let me do just that.  Thank you for being so cute.  I love how excited you get when I come to visit I love you tons!


Dear Cortnie,
I've always wanted to be just like you.  But who wouldn't!?  You have it all.  You are absolutely gorgeous, have perfect clothes, nails, hair, skin, eyebrows, and even perfect eyelashes!  Not only that but you care about others, make people laugh, and are always fun to be around.  I never have a dull moment with you.  I am glad you have "refound" Austin to make you happy and know that you guys will be amazing parents to baby Paxton.  Thank you for being exactly who you are, don't ever change for anyone.  Love you!


Dad,
Thank you for being my dad and for always having my best interest in mind.  Anyone can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad.  Love you and thank you for all that you have done for me.
ps.  I will never like mushrooms because I know that they will put hair on my chest.


Diet and Myrna,
I am especially grateful that you have so lovingly accepted me into your family.  Thank you for raising your son to be the man of my dreams.  Love you guys!


Dear God,
I want to take a minute, not to ask anything from you, but to simply thank you for all I have.


Dear Isaac,
I look up to you [literally] for becoming the fine young man that you are.  You always know how to make someone feel better!  Even though you give me a hard time more than not I'm still glad you are in my family!  Love you!


Dear Jake [H],
You know how to put the U in Unique :]  Don't worry, that is not a bad thing!  I love that you can always make people laugh and feel like they are the most important person in the world.  I am grateful that you are also in my family. Love you!


Dear Jake [R],
First of all, I miss you like crazy, but know you are having the time of your life in Tonga.  Will you please send me $5000 dollars so Lance and I can come pick you up?  Much appreciated :]  Thank you so much for always noticing when I was down and needed a pick-me-up.  You definitely are one of a kind.  Thank you for being the best.  There is no other way to put it.  Love you lots!


Dear Jenna,
You are honestly amazing.  I love that you are always the first one to give someone a compliment.  I'm so grateful that you have chosen to be part of my family {Or I guess I could say I'm choosing you to be part of it}.  Thank you for being there in the blink of an eye when I need someone to vent to.  I love how we will say the exact same thing {more than once} when hanging out.  Thanks for making me want to be a better person, I love you and am glad that I can consider you a best friend.


Dear Kevin,
Thank you for taking time to answer your phone when I am lost.  I am glad you are part of my life and truly appreciate all that you have done to help make it better.  You make it easy to answer "yes" when people have asked, "do you like your step-dad?"  Love you!


Dear Lance,
Thank you for choosing to share your life with me.  I love your big caring heart and your dorky dance moves.  Thank you for accepting me as I am, even with all my flaws and downfalls.  You never let me forget how to make me feel special when I need it most.  I love you with all I have.


Mandy and Lorin,
I love that I have you guys as examples to strive to be better.  Your cute little boy will grow to be an amazing man from the parents he has.  You are both very hard working at what you do and that is obvious to those around you.  Thanks for being part of my life, love you guys!


Dear Matt and Tori,
Thank you for the fun times we have had together.  I always enjoy your new and funny ideas.  Thanks for being in my family.  Love you guys!


Dear Mom,
Thank you for raising me to be the person that I am today.  From you, I have learned hard work, dedication, discipline, selflessness, love and so many other things.  Thank you for teaching me how to love myself and about life's endeavors.  I know I am a pain at times and I appreciate all that you have done for me. I love you tons!

Randy and Jenny,
Thank you for always welcoming Lance and I and making us feel right at home.  Your house always smells of yummy food and your kids are just too cute to resist.  I hope we can be half the parents you are to your 3 little kidlets.


Dear Rudy,
Thank you for making me feel like I am the only person in the universe when I come home from a long day of school and work.  I love how excited you get to see me when you know I'm just going to walk into the door and go right to the computer to do homework.  Your cute face makes me want to stop and play your favorite tug-a-war.  Thank you for your protection during the nights when daddy is at work.  Your big warm belly makes the perfect pillow. I love you.


Dear Tim and Kamie,
Thank you for always going above and beyond as a big brother and sister.  I love being able to make memories when going on trips together.  Love you guys and your new addition!


Dear Tracy,
Thank you for taking on the task of being a mom to 2 crazy kids years ago.  You have so many talents! Thank you for loving me unconditionally, I am glad you are part of my life!


Dear Tyden,
You seriously melt my heart every time I see you.  You are so close to the spirit and I love that I can feel it when you give me a huge two hand squeeze.  You are so special to me and illuminate that feeling to those around you.

[.straight from heaven.]

It's been a while since I've got some camera time and today was the day where I was able to take a break from school and work and get some one-on-one time with my camera.  Today I took some newborn pictures of my cute niece Reagan Amy Fischer and a family friend's baby Annaleise Rae Christensen.

It took quite a while and was extremely hot, but well worth it!

Here's what I've been working on instead of sleeping :]

Such pretty girls!

[.one freaking month....]

Until I am a college graduate!

I can't wait!

It will be the best day ever!

What will I do with myself!?

Oh, that's right... I will have a NORMAL human life!
Boo yah :]

[.in this life, i am nothing but what i create.]

Woke up at 4:30 this morning feeling like I wanted to cancel my 5:15 appointment, but I didn't.  Showed up right at 5:15 and waited for 15 minutes for my clients to show up.  But nope, I didn't see them.  So I left to go home and get back into bed.  On my way home, I went to get gas and received a phone call at 5:42 am (remember the appointment was at 5:15).  She called me from the gym telling me she was only a few minutes late and asked what I wanted to do.  I wasn't ready to go back because by the time I'd get back there'd only be 25 minutes left.  As if I was already frustrated enough I was then asked to not charge for that session. (Even if they are 10 minutes late [without notice] we are still supposed to charge)  None the less, I was ticked!!  I was wishing that I would have bought the punching bag I was looking at the other day to relive some of the frustration.  I got home and wanted to go straight to bed but instead decided to do some Xtreme yoga.  After 40 minutes of some yoga and relaxation, I feel better already.

Way to start the day.

ps - doing yoga with a pup.....makes things extra challenging ;)

[.nap like you mean it.]

When you wake up at 4:30 in the morning, sometimes a good hour long nap snuggling with the pup is exact what you need.

When you wake up at 4:30 in the morning, this is how you feel....

[.you can't live a positive life with a negative mind.]

I really don't like sleeping without Lance at nights.  Makes it hard to fall asleep.  I'm glad I've got my pup.  A few thoughts before I'm out for the night...

[.never be afraid to try something new. Remember, amateurs built the ark. Professionals built the titanic.]

I swear I can NOT wait until school is over!  Once it's over not only does that mean I don't have to go up to school, but it also means I don't have to do internship anymore!  Two things off the daily schedule!

As if my day weren't jammed packed already, I've decided to set myself a goal.  Something that will most likely take out a good chunk of my time.  I've said this before and that is why I'm making it happen this time.  Specifically because I hate the fact that I keep saying it will happen, then it never does.
I know for a fact I could make it happen, I just never had that reason to make it happen.

A while ago, and then again a few months ago I thought about competing for fitness.  It was only a thought that passed through my mind, but then came and passed quickly for a few reasons.

A couple of days ago I was asked by some people if I had ever thought about competing.  When the question came up I thought to myself, That's it, I've got to do this. 


I've never felt comfortable in a swimsuit and have always had the goal in mind to have a six pack before having children.  What better way to motivate myself than to enter into a competition that requires you to do just that.


Some people will probably think I'm crazy.  Actually, I know people will think I'm crazy.
I'm sure I'll be judged by those around me, but I don't care...
I've got to do this for me.
Not for anyone else, but for me.
Call me selfish, call me whatever but
I want the satisfaction of knowing I can do anything I put my mind to.
I want to do this because...
I have such a passion for healthy lifestyle and fitness.
I know the benefits that come from it.
I know that by doing this, I will have more confidence.
Not only in my physique,
but for my profession.
I know that by doing so I will set the example for my clients.
I know that it will give me the chance to step outside my comfort zone.
It'll make me more disciplined and focused.
We were blessed with only one body, why not make the best of it?
No one else can do the work for me, I am the one in control.
(Although I am not a very controlling person, I like to feel in control of myself)
I admire the human body and know it's capabilities, now i just need to put it to the test.


The competition takes place in April.


I've never competed towards anything in my life.
I always wanted to do dance, or gymnastics, or cheer leading or anything for that matter and that never happened.


So, now that I can make my own choices, I yearn to make it happen.

I met with another trainer at my gym yesterday to talk over a few things.  He's competed before so he knows what he's doing and offered to help me.
Tomorrow I start day 1 of "eating like a competitor".  I already know how to eat healthy, and I feel I do a pretty good job at it, most of the time.
But I'm going to try to eat, for one week, like the competitors do the week before a competition.


(To see if I can how I handle it)


Also, cardio.. Here I come!  I'm sure Rudy will enjoy this!


I know it will be hard, but if it is not hard then, to me,  it is not worth it.


I'm nervous, but more so excited.


I will do my best to keep up with updates on my other blog.