Shalyse

Finn Discovers his Cowlick

2011-12-26T21:09:00.001-08:00

How to Wear this Season's Hottest Sweaters

2011-12-26T21:05:00.000-08:00

Peanut Butter Nutella Swirl Cookies

2011-11-22T13:31:00.000-08:00

Peanut Butter Nutella Swirl Cookies

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup smooth peanut butter

1/2 cup white sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

1 egg

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

Approx. 1/4 cup Nutella

Directions

Preheat oven to 350° F.

Combine butter, peanut butter, sugars, egg, and vanilla.

Mix until well blended.

Add flour, baking soda and salt.

Drizzle Nutella on top of the dough then swirl it through the dough with a butter knife.

Chill dough 15 minutes in the refrigerator.

Roll into balls by hand.

Place on parchment lined cookie sheet.

Using a fork, press down the balls to flatten slightly.

Bake until edges are very lightly browned (about 7 to 10 minutes).

Allow to rest 2 minutes on cookie sheet before transferring cookies to a cooling rack.

Blueberry, Caramel, White Chocolate, Oatmeal Cookies

2011-11-22T13:24:00.000-08:00

Blueberry, Carmel, and White Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

3/4 cup white sugar

2 sticks softened butter

1 c packed brown sugar

2 eggs

1 1/2 T vanilla

2 1/2 c all purpose flour

2 1/2 c oatmeal

1 t baking soda

1 t kosher salt

2 c Caramel Bits, by Kraft (I found it at Walmart/Target)

1 1/2 c dried blueberries ( I found mine at Costco- and I usually use only 1 cup)

1 c white chocolate chips (guittard)

Oven 350

Cook 9-11 mins

Cool for 5 mins before removing from pan.

In a stand mixer, beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.

Beat in eggs and vanilla until smooth.

Place flour, oatmeal, baking soda and salt into a large bowl; mix to combine.

Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients along with the caramel bits, blueberries and white chocolate.

Mix until just combined

The Perfect Pant Glossary

2011-10-09T22:11:00.000-07:00

Introducing Guest Blogger: Presley Walker!!!

2011-09-06T19:21:00.000-07:00

SHALYSE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love my aunt shalyse she has

a <3 boyfriend dallen these are the funny names i love to call

him,dillmoney,dill pickle money,dillrinosures,dillpickle,dillin,dwirdow.

the first time he met me he threw me againts my wall.

shalyse plays games with me.

she also lets me play on her phone.

she is awesome and really really really cool

BYE BYE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Happy 90th, Grandpa Joe!

2011-09-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

You're never too old to love your birthday,

and my grandpa Joe is no exception.

Last year for his 89th, we had a sit down dinner

at a reception center with a full program at his request.

This year, when asked what he wanted for his birthday,

he said a parade...

and a parade he got!!!

The cute Spanish Fork High School band

(his alma mater) came to the care center

where he is recovering from his stroke and marched for him.

My darling grandma Flossy was the "Queen" of the parade in

Uncle Ed's vintage mustang,

and all the grandkids decorated and rode their bikes

as we literally paraded to the park for a big barbeque.

It was so fun.

I haven't seen my grandpa that happy in a long time.

I think he was most surprised that we took his request literally.

And you know Flossy loved being queen for a day.

Happy 90th, Grandpa Joe.

We're so lucky to have you.

Chocolate Chip Pecan Coconut Cookies

2011-08-30T20:54:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love cooking,

but I'm not much of a baker.

I think it's because

baking requires exactness...

and...details aren't really my thing.

But I have fallen in love.

Actually, we've been in love for some time now.

Except I couldn't make love.

Wait...What? Nevermind.

I meant I could never make good cookies.

Cookies=Love,

just in case you didn't catch that.

I got this recipe from my old roomate,

Angelique, who got married this weekend.

(congrats!)

I digress...

I can't stop eating these cookies.

These are too good.

Even if you're not a coconut person,

please try it in these.

They add so much moisture and just plain

delicious, divine, delectable, delightfulness to them.

Other secret ingredients?

The exact butter brand (Meadow Gold),

triple the vanilla when compared with other chocolate chip cookies recipes,

and dark brown sugar.

Oh, and never compromise with the chocolate chips.

Always Guittard milk chocolate chips.

Now and forever.

Ok, now I'll put my money where my mouth is

(literally)

Here's the recipe:

Chocolate Chip, Pecan, Coconut Cookies

1 2/3 c all purpose flour

3/4 t. baking powder

1/2 t. baking soda

1/2 t. salt

7/8 c. softened butter (I am very particular about my butter- I use two sticks meadow gold butter)

1 c. backed brown sugar (dark brown)

1/3 c. white sugar

1 egg

1 1/2 t. vanilla

1 c. coconut (flaked)

1 c. chopped pecans (fine)

1 c. chocolate chips (guittard)

Mix Flour, powder, soda, salt in bowl. Set aside.

Mix Butter, sugars, egg. Add vanilla. Beat together.

Slowly add add coconut, nuts and chocolate.

Cool on rack for 2-5 mins.

** I like to have all my dough in the fridge over night and then cook the next day- makes them fluffy and not so flat. Also use a Tablespoon to shape dough into perfect balls.

I Love Lucy

2011-08-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

I know it's a day late,

but I should let you all know that

I really do love Lucy.

My sophomore year in high school,

one of my dearest teachers told me

that I reminded him of Lucy.

At first I wasn't sure how to take it,

but I now regard it one of the best

compliments I've ever received!

Happy 100th birthday, Lucy!

Over The Rainbow

2011-08-02T19:59:00.001-07:00

Find more artists like ShaLyse Walker at Myspace Music

Advice Column

2011-07-30T21:41:00.000-07:00

Birthday Weekend

2011-07-22T22:21:00.001-07:00

Have I mentioned that Pioneer Day is my favorite holiday?

(Well, so is the 4th of July but whatevs)

I was born on the 24th of July

(not July 24th),

and I genuinely, deeply, love my dear

ancestors who crossed the plains and sacrificed so much

to come west.

Anyway, birthday weekend kicked off with a concert with

D's family with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

featuring Brian Stokes Mitchell and Linda Eder.

Incredible!

Linda Eder is kind of an idol of mine.

I sang one of her songs at Miss Idaho Falls and Miss Idaho.

The whole tribute to the pioneers and our service men and women

was so touching---tears were streaming freely.

But guess what happens tomorrow?

I'm leaving on a jetplane to the BEACH HOUSE!!

I love the beach house more than life and I'm just so happy

I get to be going at all.

In fact, when I wake up Sunday morning on my birthday...

it will already be perfect because I'm there.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh......

Let the festivities begin!!!!!!!

2011-07-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

I did another little segment today on

crocheted fashion.

Love these little host chats with Brooke.

Modest is the Hottest

2011-07-21T17:47:00.000-07:00

Us Utahans are always looking for ways

to cover our shoulders!

In my Studio 5 segment on KSL this month,

I found some fun, creative and modern ways to

add sleeves to a sleeveless look without ruining the outfit.

Enjoy!

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things part three

2011-07-10T11:04:00.000-07:00

I love the movie

The Firm.

They just don't make 'em like The Firm anymore.

That the piano jazz soundtrack in the background?

Love it.

(although I still couldn't tell you how the movie ends...)

Paige's new denim fabrication.

Remember when Paige's were way too low and

ran a size small?

Not anymore.

These are my favorite jeans.

I could sleep in them.

Run, don't walk to buy the Skyline.

I'm normally a strictly Definicils girl,

but have you tried YSL's Volume mascara?

It's incredible.

I'm not embarrassed to say that

Who Says by Selena Gomez

is my summer song.

C'mon you can't tell me it isn't good.

I love it.

You'll love it too.

I'm admittedly, not a dog person...

or even a pet person for that matter.

But have you ever seen a Golden Doodle

or Labradoodle?

I really don't think I've even seen anything cuter.

There was one that lived in my building in NY

and I was obsessed.

They are so adorable.

What are your favorite things this summer?

70's Babe

2011-07-06T20:35:00.000-07:00

While we're on the topic of blasts from the past,

I simply have to share these photos with you.

This babelicious bombshell below

(alliteration anyone?)

is Dallen's mom,

Sherron.

That hair!

Isn't she ethereal and breathtaking?

Here's one more:

There's something to be said about good genes.

(Sorry about the iphone pictures of these photos. I do my best.)

Texas

2011-07-05T19:38:00.000-07:00

I'm proud of being an Idaho girl...

but I might be a Texas girl too.

In fact,

my friend Casey used to call me "Dallas."

Probably because of my big hair. I love it. I don't care.

I'm still not sure whether or not that was a compliment,

but I liked it.

I went to Houston with D last week

and loved every, every second.

Everyone warned me about Houston in July,

but I guess when you don't live in weather like that,

you appreciate it.

It reminded me of Hawaiian vacations.

And the food?

Please don't even get me started.

To sum it up, we shopped,

soaked up the sun by the pool,

ate way too much Bluebell,

drove around reliving Dallen's childhood,

drove through some amazing neighborhoods with

the biggest houses I've ever seen (that's Texas),

and the best part...

all of the childhood photos I could ever want

at my dispense of D.

It was like a goldmine!

Here are some of the gems:

Isn't there something just scrumptious about looking

at kid pictures of your lover?

Am I the only person that feels this way?

Look at da baby!

I love how the little wrinkles around his eyes still look exactly like this!

Such a little prince, that one.

Contest: can you find Dallen's pupil?

I'm offering a $10,000 reward for anyone who can find

Dallen's pupil.

Going full blast!

(on a side note, Dallen had a dog named Girbaud. Couldn't leave out that little jewel)

Junior Jazz MVP!

That's my boyfriend, everyone.

Did you hear that?

MVP.

Isn't Sherron pretty?

I leave you with this tasty morsel.

God bless Texas!

Transformations

2011-07-04T01:12:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago

I styled two of the sweetest women I had ever met

for a photo shoot.

They had both recently

won a weight loss contest by

MonaVie and were flown into town for a

the shoot,

and a weekend getaway.

I was so impressed by their stories

and by how their "after" photos turned out,

I had to share.

Don't they both look absolutely stunning?

This is Leah.

Click here to read her story.

She emailed me today,

and she's now lost over 100 pounds!!!!

She is one of the most positive, upbeat, amazing people I've ever met.

And believe me, she's gone through a lot.

Here she is before:

...here she is after:

She looked so cute in this little Eileen Fisher number:

And this is Stephanie.

Can you believe the transformation?

Stephanie has now lost over 80 pounds!

Click here to read her story.

This is what she looked like before:

Here she is after:

I thought this yellow Nanette Lepore dress

just screamed

"Look at me now!!!!!"

This isn't an advertisement of any kind for MonaVie.

I'm just really proud of these amazing ladies

and inspired by their determination.

And, I mean really,

don't they look fab?

Rollieism #3

2011-06-28T22:32:00.001-07:00

"Never do the wrong thing for the first time."

This one in particular is a Rollie favorite.

It is also engraved on a plaque.

In each of our rooms.

Love it.

Rolliesim#2

2011-06-27T23:16:00.000-07:00

"What is the one thing I can do today,

that if I don't do, everything else I do, won't matter?"

-Rollie

Engraved in his office.

In wood.

Rules for Wearing White

2011-06-20T18:54:00.001-07:00

Rollieism #1

2011-06-19T22:20:00.001-07:00

In honor of Father's Day,

I'm going to start a post series called Rollieisms.

Rollie is my dad, in case you were wondering.

One of the greatest lessons

my dad ever taught me was that

"Suffering stems from considering options that don't exist."

I first heard him tell our missionaries that during our years in Santiago, Chile.

For example, if a homesick missionary wanted to go home?

He'd tell them going home wasn't an option.

(Tough love approach haha).

What would happen almost 99% of the time?

That missionary would end up loving their mission

after they stopped considering the possibility

of hopping a plane to easy street.

This-- because they stopped dwelling on what they didn't have,

and started living in the present.

It's all about acceptance and making every moment of life count.

Happy Father's Day, Dad.

I'm so blessed to learn from you and be your daughter.

Love you.

Burb

2011-06-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

This little itty bitty Burberry handbag

has me quite enamored.

You should see it in real-life 3D.

It's fab.

Mom?

...Pllllleeeeaaaassssse?

Available HERE

Sutton

2011-06-14T21:32:00.001-07:00

Ok.

I've been obsessed with Sutton Foster

since around 2005.

So I'm at six years and going strong.

Can you believe her performance at the Tonys on Sunday?

I can't stop watching it.

Just how would it be to tap and sing like that?

I think I'll go watch it again.

Bye.

State Poster

2011-06-14T16:59:00.001-07:00

How cute is this?

My adorable sister, Shelby

is a graphic design student and made this cool poster for Jenna's room.

Want your state with customizable background color?

(I just sounded like an informercial)

Leave me a comment if you want deets!

(They're cheap)

Ok, done with shameless sister brag.

But seriously,

how cute is that poster?

I love this poem

2011-06-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

Untitled

after all white horses are in bed

will you walking beside me, my very lady,

touch lightly my eyes

and send life out of me

and the night absolutely into me.

-- ee cummings

Frivolous, Important, Recent Discoveries

2011-06-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

1. Regular Klondike Bars are much tastier than the fancy Heath (or any other candy bar with with the chocolate version). You wouldn't think so, but it's true. Trust me. The chocolate is thicker on the regular, plain Klondike. This is important information that I have thought long, and hard about. I'm a very, very busy girl.

2. When you have two great options to choose from, they both become less attractive. This is a psychological coping mechanism your brain employs to avoid the discomfort of making a decision. For example, I recently had to very cute dresses to wear to a wedding. I fickly waffled between the two for days, until the night before the wedding. Then, I decided I hated both of them. Stupid, ugly dresses. I almost abandoned them for an old black wrap dress in my closet until my intelligent boyfriend Dallen illuminated me to this psychological principal. I then went with the floral option. Glad I could share this experience with you. Thank you, Dallen.

3. Polaroid, and Hipstamatic (is that what it's called?) photos are no more original than a popped collar polo in Provo in 2003. Glad I could get that off my chest.

4. Why spent money on a spray tan when you can buy an aerosol spray tan bottle at the grocery store for $6.99? Besides, who ever sees the top of your back anyway? (Disregard this if you are planning of wearing a swimsuit) (Also, please feel free to judge me for loving the spray tan)

5. I'm thoroughly enjoying the NBA Finals. Never thought I'd make that statement about any sport, ever. But I'm proud to tell you I've watched the last two Heat/Mavs games by myself.* That's dedication, folks.

6. I like weird movies sometimes. For example, the original 1975 Grey Gardens documentary came on TV the other day and I watched the entire thing, equally transfixed, disgusted, and intrigued. Dallen said it was the most depressing, weird thing he's ever seen. I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. I wouldn't even really recommend it. I can't explain it. Nevermind.

I think that's about it for now.

*Go Mavs.

Us

2011-06-09T23:55:00.000-07:00

June 8, 2011

at Brandon and Sarah's wedding

Sorry for the iphone pic...

actually, I'm not sorry.

I suck at taking pictures,

so actually,

maybe you should congratulate me.

Oh, and these are the gorgeous blooms

I got to take home,

but had no vase to put them in.

So into the McKenzie Childs teapot they went!

Hope U. Dye

2011-06-01T23:50:00.000-07:00

So this one time when I was an intern at

GMA Weekend,

I went on a shoot about women who have

perfectly tame day jobs,

and outrageously cool/crazy

nighttime hobbies/jobs.

You know...

double lives!

Marianne worked as a curator at

an art gallery by day in NYC,

but don't be fooled...

she moonlighted as

wait for it...

Pummela Slanderson by night.

Amazing.

I also met

Killery Clinton,

Dotty Snatcher,

Ally McBeatdown,

Slamyou L. Jackson,

Helen Killer,

Kelly Ripya,

One Hit Wanda,

Mel A. Noma,

Shred Bundy,

Angela Slamsbury (so hilarious)

and the best one...

Olympia Du Kick A(sensored).

I could go on and on.

The best part is,

once you've chosen and registered your name,

no roller derby broad can steal it.

It's yours.

For. Ev. Er.

Hi, my name is

Hope U. Dye,

what's yours?

Sessa is 7!!!!

2011-05-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday, Presley!

I love my little geegle.

She is so smart,

and such a good girl.

She's also got enough personality for 3 people.

I'll never forget almost dying when I saw that dark-haired,

gorgeous baby girl

minutes after we came into the world.

I YUB YOU SESSALEE!

My Finny

2011-05-13T21:21:00.000-07:00

We went home this weekend

and I could not get enough of my Finny.

He is the sweetest, cutest,

John Deer tractor loving little boy on the planet.

His eyebrow and hair cowlicks---

not to mention those dimples

kill me.

And the best part is,

he lets me maul him.

Dallen calls me Elmyra.

Remember Elmyra Duff from Tiny Toons?

What she is to cats is what I am to babies.

I can't help it.

I love my Finny.

Happy Cinco!

2011-05-05T20:59:00.000-07:00

Feliz Cinco de Mayo!

Viva Mexico.

Sisters in Mexico circa 1999

Royal Wedding Fever

2011-04-25T21:14:00.000-07:00

I've got it.

Who wants to stay up all night

and drink tea and eat crumpets

and have a potty (party)?

I'm serious.

Polka Dots and Stripes!

2011-04-22T22:58:00.001-07:00

Don't Forget to...

2011-04-20T15:55:00.000-07:00

Tune into Studio 5

on KSL Channel 5

at 11 am to see my segment on

How to Wear Polka Dots and Stripes!

Me in the GMA archive room, Summer 2008

Pinterest!

2011-03-31T17:31:00.000-07:00

I finally got my invite to pinterest

and I'm thrilled.

My sister-in-law Katie

and my Auntie Cel

turned me on to it.

Follow me, my followers, or who I follow here.

If you want an invite,

feel free to leave a comment!

On my boards I plan on pinning

home inspirations...

fashion...

my favorite iconic photos...

and more!

Be patient though...

I'm just getting started.

Happy Birthday, My Love

2011-03-29T21:33:00.000-07:00

WARNING: major gushing ahead

in honor of my D's birthday tomorrow.

So glad you're in my life.

Your intelligence blows me away.

You're the funniest person I know.

I love your expressive eyes and I love your thick, thick hair.

How come you have so many eyelashes?

I like your hands.

I like that you DVR "my shows" for me...sometimes even without me asking.

I love how supportive you are.

Your facial hair is sexy.

I love all of our little inside jokes and voices.

I like your feet.

Wait, is there anything I don't like?

Thanks for always letting me incessantly play with your hands.

I love that you speak Spanish better than me.

I like that you make me feel pretty.

I love that you were a good missionary.

Thank you for always patiently answering my sometimes endless streams of questions.

I admire you.

I instantly melt when I watch you with babies and kids.

You're like magic with them.

You amaze me with how you so easily understand people.

I like when you wear loafers without socks.

I love how carefully you fold your clothes.

I trust you.

You get me.

But most of all,

I love that you are good.

You're my GGH.

(that's an inside joke, sorry)

You're my Texas boy.

You're my CP.

(inside)

You're my dis

(that too)

Happy Birthday, my love.

Happy Thought

2011-03-28T23:05:00.000-07:00

Someday,

I will live in a house

with large, expansive

bookshelves.

Preferably the kind that

require a ladder.

Someday.

Yes, I have the Barnes and Noble Nook.

Yes, I love it more than life.

However, bookshelves

make any room feel

instantly homey.

They whisper comfort.

Aren't these just divine?

Some pictures found on Auntie C's pinterest.

Top photo is of Oprah's office.

Dress for Success

2011-03-26T15:17:00.000-07:00

Speaking to the University of Utah's

Kappa Kappa Gamma's

about how to

Dress for Success

on Monday night.

Hoping I can tell these smart women

something they don't already know!

What's the best/worst thing you've worn

or seen worn to a job interview?

I once saw someone come to an interview where I work

in a Roxy sweat suit.

I never saw her again.

Rebecca Taylor suit from Nordstrom

Life

2011-03-22T19:09:00.000-07:00

"Do any human beings realize life while they live it?

Every, every minute?"

-Thornton Wilder, Our Town

Grandma Dot and baby miracle, Molly

This quote has a special place in my heart.

Our Town was my first play.

These words are engraved in the entryway

of my dear friends,

Roger and Heidi Merrill,

who

welcomed me into their Playmill family

in the summer of 2005.

With the recent passing a few friends lately

I've been thinking so much about gratitude,

and about knowing

how precious and fleeting

what you have is

while you have it.

Let's all realize life a little more while we live it--

every, every minute.

Grilled Cheese

2011-03-20T14:40:00.000-07:00

Ok.

I love a grilled cheese sandwich.

I think it's a Walker girl thing.

Ask anyone.

When you want one, you want one.

It doesn't matter if you're at the Country Club or Hire's.

When the urge for a GC hits,

it must be satisfied.

From American (fake cheese) squares to goat and gouda.

All forms of cheese in the grilled variety are accepted.

That is why when Shelby told me about this blog,

I died.

I died of an ailment caused by

hunger/brilliance/"why didn't I think of this"/happiness.

It's very rare and contagious.

I was over the moon/angry

when I discovered she'd already presented a Walker family

favorite to the world---

cheese and jam.

Look at this grilled cheese sandwich!

Recipe here.

And this breakfast grilled cheese with

french toast, strawberries and mascarpone.

Die!

Die here.

And how about a baked potato grilled cheese?

Just what this Idaho girl needs!

And to top it all off,

check out this ridiculousness!

Yes, there is something for everyone on this blog.

I've literally clicked through every single recipe

and...

I am in love.

All images taken from Grilled Cheese Social

Pinup

2011-03-12T21:35:00.000-08:00

Cute cupcake Choby.

Las Vegas 2011

Bugle Boy

2011-03-11T23:03:00.000-08:00

Just a little vintage D

to brighten your day right up!

Can you handle the Bugle Boy tee

and his hair that is thicker in this picture

than mine will ever, ever be?

Love him

so much.

Spring Trends!!!

2011-03-10T18:50:00.001-08:00

These Are a Few of My Favorite Things Part Deux

2011-03-07T23:25:00.000-08:00

I finally stopped being the girl who sprayed a little

too much of the sample

every single day at Sephora and bought

Fresh Sugar Lemon.

It is so divine.

And fresh. (obviously)

Smells like lemony soap.

This. Show. Is. Awesome.

And D and I

(ok mostly me)

are loving this

(less awesome)

show.

But I don't like to admit it.

Garbage I tell you!

Garbage!

This documentary

was so fun/thrilling/crazy/scary/sad.

Don't google it though.

The less you know the more you'll love it.

Please watch it.

Then delete your facebook.

Ok, maybe not...

but you might want to.

Saw Joshua Radin with D

last Wednesday.

His dreamy music sounds like a lulluby.

And...

this is best time I've ever at the grocery store.

I was crying.

Tears rolling down my face.

'Twas the night before Valentine's day.

Ladies and Gents,

I give you Shelby on a electric wheelchair thingy.

Home

2011-02-18T14:22:00.001-08:00

I can't stop gushing over this video.
Even Dallen couldn't wipe the smile off his face.

An Unexpected Match: Mixing Prints

2011-01-27T19:03:00.000-08:00

I'm Mad...

2010-12-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

About Mad Men.

(Clever title, eh? EH?)

And I know,

I'm extremely lame and late

to the game on this one.

Dallen and I have been watching the seasons on DVD

and just finished season two.

Loving all the 60's cultural references,

sets and costumes (of course),

and this show is much darker and complex

than I expected.

And I keep asking myself...

how is it that I still like

Don?

And let's talk about Joan!

And Betty's dresses?

Insane.

And Peggy's fat suit in season one...

Please, no spoilers for future seasons.

I'm hooked on this show.

And yes,

I realize that that is very Stuff White People Like of me.

Oh well.

Who is your favorite character?

Who are you hating (ahem...Pete)?

The Tea

2010-12-13T21:53:00.000-08:00

Are you an herbal tea drinker?

I'm obsessed.

I love visiting the Beehive Tea Room.

They have the biggest list of herbals

I've seen anywhere.

The chocolate mint is out of this world!

I also can't resist just a simple, delicious chamomile.

Dallen's mom is also a big tea lover

(as evidenced by her blog title),

and so is my Dad.

In fact,

the very first tea I remember drinking as a kid

was hot water with lemon juice and lots of honey squeezed in.

It was my Dad's magic "sick" potion to make you feel better.

That, and a pair of socks could cure anything!

Well,

I've found a new favorite---

it's Aveda's herbal Tea.

Zero caffeine, zero sugar---all delicious.

Oh, and this is a big deal:

it's the only tea I do not sweeten.

It's so good and comforting as is.

I love love love it.

You can buy it here-

either loose or in tea bags.

Yum!

(sorry about the spacing in this post. Blogger is crazy right now)

Just in Time for the Holidays!

2010-12-10T17:54:00.001-08:00

I present,

"Ways to Dress Up Your Jeans!"

Lundy Girl

2010-11-23T20:00:00.000-08:00

This is London.

Also known as

Lundy Girl,

and...

Dragon Quest (Dallen's creation),

The Little,

The Tiny McSilly,

The Funny McSmall,

The Silly McTeeny,

and any other combination of

Small, Funny, Tiny, Little, Teeny, and Silly--

and don't forget the Mc--

(all Dallen's creations as well).

She's the cutest 8-year-old I know.

And

look at her long, luscious hair.

Oh, and she deserves this spotlight because

she's one of my 3 loyal blog followers.

Excited to be spending Thanksgiving with this little cutie.

Interview

2010-11-17T17:37:00.000-08:00

There is something that brings out the giggles

when sitting in an audience while

pageant contestants answer their

onstage questions.

And let me tell you,

as someone who has been on the other end of the equation--

the prospect of someone being able to ask you

absolutely anything in the universe

in front of large auditorium full of people

can strike sheer and utter terror in your heart.

Now.

Let's get to the good part.

Let's talk about some of the best pageant q&a's you've ever heard.

I once heard a girl at a Junior Miss pageant say that

Jesse "The Body" Ventura was a great role model for kids.

Really? Of everyone in the universe...Jesse "The Body" Ventura won out.

But that isn't the best story.

I have a great one.

The year I gave up my crown,

my best friend ran for Miss Idaho Falls.

Naturally, I got to ask her the onstage question.

Her platform was

"Fighting Childhood Obesity."

She had outlined four "pillars" that encompassed

her plan of action--should she win the title.

Onstage, I asked her to explain those four pillars

to fighting childhood obesity to the audience.

As soon as I asked the question-- I saw her face draw a blank.

I knew she couldn't remember.

Then,

a lightbulb when on.

She took the mic from my hand as I stared intently into her face,

saying a silent prayer in my heart that she would find the words.

Well,

she found the words...sort of.

She remembered one of the pillars.

It was supposed to be

"Eat less, move more."

In that moment of sheer terror,

here is her onstage answer in its entirety:

"Well ShaLyse, the four pillars of my platform are,

number one,

EAT MORE, MOVE LESS.

Thank you."

(Walks offstage.)

Best pageant moment of all time.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

please encourage your children to

Eat More, Move Less.

Ree

2010-11-17T17:29:00.000-08:00

Are you watching Ree

Throw down with Bobby Flay tonight?

Why am I so excited?

SLC Favorites #1

2010-11-10T14:33:00.000-08:00

Coming for a visit to the

Salty City?

Already live here?

Let me tell you about a few of my favorite places.

This is sure to be a series of posts...

since I can't name them all in one.

1. I love Gourmandise.

I'm blogging from here now.

It reminds me of

Cafe Lalo in NYC.

In fact,

it makes you feel like you're in the big city.

There's always a late night crowd,

And the desserts are endless and divine.

If fact, there are so many,

it's almost impossible to decide.

They're all so pretty and european looking.

And it's open late.

I already said that in the "late night crowd" part.

This is not an advertisement.

Just an enthusiastic endorsement.

Thank you.

Embarrassingish

2010-11-05T19:20:00.000-07:00

Ok...

Even though these two things are embarrassing,

I somehow find the need to share them with you here.

Do I like to embarrass myself?

I must.

So--first embarrassing thing:

I have pretty big calves.

Always have.

Even at 110 pounds.

Cute boots are hard to find.

But,

I just purchased this lovely pair

and I'm very charmed by their

cowgirlish appeal.

Ok,

second sorta embarrassingish thing:

they're by Fergie.

There,

so glad to have that off my chest.

P.S. I just posted my new leggings and legwear segment from this week's Studio 5 below. Take a peek if you feel so inclined!

Leggings and Legwear Segment

2010-11-05T18:30:00.000-07:00

Another fun Studio 5

segment has come and gone!

This one was challenging but probably

my most fun yet.

Thank you Amanda Hall, McKenna McQuarry,

Courtney Oldroyd, Jenna Walker and Tiffiny Word-Tolbert

for being hot, fabulous models!!!

Take a look.

Happy Birthday Kydie Barbie!

2010-10-31T14:07:00.001-07:00

Kydie Barbie
(my sister-in-law Katie)
is turning...
28 this Halloween day!
She's gorgeous,

the best mom I've ever seen,

SO fun to be with,
hot,
(wait I already said that)

a great cook,
amazing seamstress,
is crafty
(she made this necklace):

has darling style,
and a fabulous pianist to boot.
I talk to her literally every day
and am so glad she's
a part of my family
and best friend!
Happy B Kydie!

These are a few of my favorite things...

2010-10-25T19:26:00.000-07:00

As of right now

I'm loving...

Epsom Bath Salts:

They're pretty much free at the grocery

and you can dump them in your bath

without feeling bad about it.

And they're healing!

Pumpkin Spice Steamers:

(so I don't have to be jealous of the coffee drinkers)

Nomad Knits:

so cozy and yummy for fall.

Carey Mulligan:

Don't her

almost-crying-all-the-time

eyes

break your heart?

She's magical.

Shows about the paranormal:

Like Ghosthunters.

Hey, don't judge me...

I'm in the Halloween spirit.

Wait...I always like these shows.

I'm embarrassed.

Ruby Woo by Mac:

It's very old fashioned matte and very lovely.

Rich Cashmere by Lancome:

The perfect perfect nude lipstick.

Just gold enough.

Z Gallerie's City Art:

Especially the L.A. one.

Because I'm one of four people

on earth

who loves L.A.

50's Inspired Dresses:

Because who doesn't want to look

like Betty Draper?

That's all for now.

What NOT To Do #2

2010-10-25T19:07:00.000-07:00

While I'm guilty of loving me some big hair,

this my friends,

may be going a little far.

What Not To Do #1

2010-10-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

Never ever

Run out of fruit snacks.

My Worst Nightmare

2010-10-19T19:19:00.000-07:00

Remember that sequence

from my favorite movie,

Troop Beverly Hills

where Phyllis tells the story about going to Christophe's?

If you don't,

let me refresh your memory.

(fast-forward to 6:35 for the goods)

In honor of this Halloween season,

I have a scary story of my own to tell.

Here goes nothing.

(cue scary music)

****

It was a chilly January morning

in the City of Angels.

I had an early flight to catch

back to SLC.

I got up early to take a shower,

turned the faucet knob...

and nothing came out.

No water.

I have curly hair...

that I had slept on.

I had also fallen asleep without washing my makeup off.

Now,

I had no way to remove the smeared mascara from my face.

My hair,

due to the California humidity

looked eerily similar to this:

As I gazed into the mirror...

I beheld a sight not far from this:

Now, put the 'fro and the makeup together...

and you get the idea.

I comforted myself with the fact

the I was catching an early flight.

I'd land in SLC by 10am.

I wouldn't see anyone.

I did my best to tame the 'fro.

I threw on a ratty tee shirt,

some jeans,

and UGGS (to make matters worse)...

and caught a cab to the airport.

I'm telling you,

I looked BAD.

My plane began to board.

I slowly made my way to to the plane

through the boarding tunnel

(is that what it's called?)

Step by step...

getting closer to the safety of my seat

where I could bury my nose in a magazine or

stare out of a window...

When...

I turned the corner...

and beheld the last person on this entire planet

one would want to see in such a heinous condition.

Yes,

I turned the corner and stumbled upon

the one and only,

utterly terrifying...

judgemental judy

fashionista from hell...

JOAN!

JOAN RIVERS!

(cue screaming)

I can't remember what happened after that.

But ever since that day...

my hair has mysteriously

grown grey out of my head.

The end.

Sucker Story

2010-10-17T17:45:00.000-07:00

I have a baby brother.

Well...he's 16 now...

but 3 in my heart.

This is a story about him.

It happened when he was about 3 or 4.

So McNeil...there's no need to be embarrassed.

This is a great one.

Did you ever play games to pass the time on long car rides?

We did.

On one of our treks to Utah...we bought suckers at the gas station

and started a contest

to see who could come up with

the best commercial for

advertising their sucker.

We each took our turns doing our fake sucker commercials...

and little Mickey J started feeling a little left out.

He wanted to do a commercial!

Our attention turned to him as he took a big breath

and held his sucker up next to his little freckled face

to begin his soliloquy...

"Buy my sucker! It's the..."

(then he suddenly stopped and GASPED.

A look of equal parts surprise/shame covered his red face.)

"...I just pooed my pants."

****

He won the contest.

Most memorable sucker commercial of all time.

****

Remember,

he only was 3.

So cute.

Oh, and have I mentioned that he's

16 now and a complete BABE?

Thanks for letting me embarrass you Neezy.

Two Things...

2010-10-17T16:52:00.002-07:00

I love myself some REAL high heels once in a while.

With a platform.

In patent.

Or not.

Even if they look a little...

what's the term...

nevermind.

I think they're gorg.

Plus, I'm always a fan of

Sam.

2.
For next month's segment on Studio 5
I'm featuring the best looks for
legwear (leggings, jeggings, etc.)
and tights.
What are your favorites?
Maybe we'll feature your idea!
Loving
these Chanel two toned tights:

Thoughts?
What do you love?
What do you hate?
Spill.

Fall and Winter's BEST Jackets and Coats

2010-10-15T17:58:00.000-07:00

Another success at Studio 5!

Such fun having my family and close friends

model my favorite jackets and coats for

fall and winter.

Here it is!

Enjoy.

(Special thanks to Jenna, Shelby,

Pat West, Presley, Katie, and Tayler and Georgeann

for working it on the runway! Weren't they darlings?)

To read the article, click here

In A Box

2010-10-12T14:27:00.000-07:00

I'm dying over these pictures of

my brother Preston

and his family.

Are they not the cutest?!?

Look at Finny's face in this next one...so adorgable.

This next one is classic Grace--

just standing there, way unaffected.

Oh, and don't forget to watch Studio 5 tomorrow on KSL

for my fashion segment on Fall and Winter's cutest

Jackets and Coats.

Channel 5 at 11am

I'm really excited about this one.

Plus, my family are the models.

Oh, the fun!

I did it all for the Nookie

2010-09-14T23:26:00.001-07:00

Did I tell you how I got the

best

birthday present of my life from

Dallen?

The Barnes and Noble

Nook.

Amaze.

And the Kate Spade case

he gave it to me in is almost

as good as the Nook itself.

Or just as good.

Though rendered useless without the Nook.

You get the point.

Only problem is,

now I feel like I live in a bookstore...

and can't concentrate on one book.

I'm reading:

East of Eden

The Happiness Project

Dirty Sexy Politics

A Vintage Affair

and

Helter Skelter

(which I can't put down...help!)

Love me some true crime...

and nothing is more fascinating than Manson himself.

Don't judge.

What are you reading?

Studio 5

2010-08-31T14:47:00.000-07:00

Tune it to
Studio 5

tomorrow at 11 a.m.
to watch me
talking about fall's biggest fashion trends!

There will be something for everyone
as I've found my favorite looks at high and low
prices everywhere.
So excited for this new adventure!

Luck?

Early Birthday, Early Birthday

2010-07-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

I am in love with the

Rebecca Minkoff

Morning After Clutch.

As seen on Blake,

Agnes,

Reese,

and now ME!

Thanks Sal!

Finn=Pure Joy

2010-06-28T20:19:00.000-07:00

Except you probably don't want to mess with him:

Shelby did mess with him.

She thought he couldn't bite hard.

Psh.

She was very, very wrong.

(Exhibit A: her face)

Meanwhile, he's loving this exchange.

Alas...how could you not forgive a face like that?

For My Auntie Cel

2010-06-21T11:56:00.000-07:00

from Le Love

Sup.

2010-06-19T21:51:00.000-07:00

For the sake of getting Ron Artest off of the top of my blog

(it grossly misrepresents this web page),

I will tell you a little about a few of the things I am loving right now.

You know I hate the flats...so Tom read my mind:

I am obsessed with the patio and food at Trio.

Rosemary flatbread...sigh.

Sessalee turned 6. She's such a teen.

Dwace just bein Dwace:

and Fifi McGooger:

Don't pretend like you don't love singing and dancing to California Girls.

Stop trying to pretend.

I know you do.

I know because I saw you at the stoplight on 400 S.

It's ok.

I was too.

Have you listened to the Stuff You Should Know podcast?

Download NOW!

Incredible.

Especially the one about red heads...and serial killers...and the Witness Protection Program...and the Amish...and people who feel no pain...and...well...all of them.

They were made for my insatiable curiosity:

(trust me...I'm the most curious person I've ever met)

I'm a new convert to acupuncture.

Truly left me feeling euphoric.

I loved this documentary.

I'm oddly fascinated by childbirth.

Go Ricki! Go Ricki! Go Ricki!

Happy Father's Day Pops!

Enjoy your ipa....

Let's not pretend like you read my blog anyway...

Enjoy your ipad!

Love you!

I Never...

2010-05-03T20:14:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd see the day when

I'd watch the NBA Playoffs almost every night...

and love them.

Who am I?

Oh...

and I needed a favorite player.

Dallen said Ron Artest is out of his mind.

So I chose him.

GOOOO RON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Apple.

2010-04-25T18:05:00.000-07:00

(view from the airplane. Photo #1)

The Big Apple.

That's where I've been for the last week.

I cannot explain how much I love this place.

But of course,

I'll have to explain because I am the

world's worst picture taker.

Which will most likely lead to the demise of the

readership of this blog.

Oh wait,

who am I kidding?
I think that already happened...

if I ever had a "readership."

(I also think I might have made that word up...

I'll have to consult with Words with Friends...my new favorite app.)

I took two photos the entire time.
They are in this post.

Oh right...back to New York.

Let me tell you what we did:

(Be warned: this post involves alot of food.)

-Max Brenner: chocolate heaven paradise death.

Best way to describe it.

-Norma's: indulgent, extravagant breakfast.
Oh, and for sports fans: we dined near Lou Piniella.

(I warned you there was food involved.)

-Enron (the broadway show): very educational. And adult.

Hey, they don't rate broadway shows. We claim our innocence.

Upper West Side + Central Park: my old neighborhood and favorite place in the city. And Magnolia cupcakes.

(Yep, more food.)

Dessert Truck: as seen on the Food Network. divine chocolate bread pudding.

(photo #2. That's it folks.)

(This is getting embarrassing.)

David Letterman: eddy murphy, paul shaffer and his shiny suit...and dave in his ratty suit. very fun.

Promises, Promises (broadway show): kristen chenoweth and sean hayes. amazing. we loved it. especially sean hayes. he blew us away.

And we walked and walked and walked.

Hopefully making up for a small portion of our calorie consumption.

Dallen interviewed on Wednesday and Thursday.

While he interviewed,

I caught up with one of my favorite ladies,

Maura Lynch.

She's artsy, and cool, and also the assistant online editor of W Magazine.

I have a friend crush.

So proud when I see her name on the credits page!

Anyway...

we had a grand time.

Can't wait to go back.

Spring!

2010-04-25T17:30:00.000-07:00

Flowy+Floral=My Kind of Top.

That is why if I had an endless retail budget,

my closet would be full of Joie.

I adore it.

I don't care who you are,they are beautiful and flattering on everyone.

Sister Walker

2010-04-05T21:42:00.000-07:00

No, this isn't a post about me going on a mission.

This is a post about my Mama Sally.

She surprises me sometimes.

For example:

She loves Prince.

She loves Ross Mathews

(better known as Ross the intern from Leno...but that's not really surprising because I love him too)

...but most surprisingly...

she loves

Carrot Top.

Yep.

Since we think it's hilarious and bizarre that she loves him so much...

we never hesitate to out her superfandom to all of our friends...

who crack up with confused delight upon learning such.

Well,

after our friend Jazzy

learned about Mama Sally's love for Carrot Top...

he happened upon CT during a trip to Vegas.

Jazzy approached him,

eager to get an autograph for his biggest fan

(Mama Sal)---

and realized upon ambushing him

...that he couldn't remember my mom's name.

However...he was not deterred.

Exercising quick problem solving skills,

Jazzy decided to tell CT to address the

glossy 8x10

to "Sister Walker."

My mom

is now the proud and excited owner

of an autographed photo by

Carrot Top himself

addressed to Sister Walker.

I'm sure he is thrilled to think his biggest fan is a nun.

POST EDIT:

I just got an email from Jazzy with a photo of the aforementioned encounter.

For your viewing pleasure....

The hero of the day, Jazzy, is on the right.

Thanks Jazz!

One Year Ago Today...

2010-03-31T22:24:00.000-07:00

Dis boy

came over to my house.

And

After an Afternoon...

it was pretty much

over.

He also turned 26 yesterday!

He is so good.

And funny

and handsome

and unreal smart

and sensitive...and sweet...but these things are secrets.

Happy birthday to you dis...

and

Happy love day to us!

America's Next Creepy Top Model

2010-03-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

Remember how

we sometimes call Shelby

Corpse Bride?

Here she is,

at her best.

Love this picture of her taken by the talented

Jordyn Hill.

You Must Watch

2010-03-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

Forgiving Dr. Mengele.

It's the story of the many sets of twins

who were subjected to the reckless

medical experiments by the infamous Nazi

Dr. Josef Mengele

in Auschwitz-Birkenau

during the holocaust.

Of the 3,000 twins selected for Mengele's cruel tests,

only 200 survived.

One of them,

Eva Kor,

makes it her mission to forgive him.

It's a touching story on how

forgiveness frees and heals...

regardless of the circumstances.

I loved it.

Read more about Mengele's children here.

Finny

2010-03-26T12:59:00.000-07:00

Finn

aka

Finny, Edgar Allen Poe, Fee, Fifi, and Duffy

turned two today!

This little googi has gone from this 3 lb. preemie:

this little Jimmy Newtron:

...To this:

I'm sorry for all the pictures but I couldn't
just pick one or two.
Can you even handle???
I can't.
Sometimes I don't know what to do he's so cute.
Happy Birthday Duffy!

Hopefully our mauling doesn't stunt your growth.

Tickles and Hurts

2010-03-22T17:55:00.000-07:00

That's how Dallen

described his first pedi last week.

Tickles and hurts.

They loved him way more

than they liked me.

Oh...and he's still getting used to

the clear coat they put on his nails and toes...

without telling him first.

And the blue rhinestone on his finger nail.

It popped off later that night.

It was fabulous.

He's comfortable with his masculinity.

p.s. We love Friday Night Lights. On DVD. Do you?

Bday

2010-03-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

Remember this post?

Yesterday,

he turned one year older and wiser too.

Love my dad.

Oh...

and a few days ago...

Dr. Seuss had a birthday too.

Did you know he has secret art?

I've seen them at an exhibition

and they're amazing.

Have always loved

Free Bird.

We tried and almost successfully convinced

Rollie to buy it for sister one time.

Afterall...Jenna means "free bird".

She's a free bird, indeed.

Isn't it sweet and perfect?

See the rest of Dr. Seuss's brilliant secret art here.

Lately...

2010-03-02T22:32:00.000-08:00

I've rediscovered how much I love reading.

Seriously...this and this book...beautiful.

Next...this.

Sisters can't stop talking about it.

I know more than ever that happy feet make for a happy girl.

I don't care if they're ugly.

After 8 hours...you wouldn't either.

(gel inserts not included.)

I've learned that no one

likes feeling judged or misunderstood...

not me...not you.

Red curry really is better than yellow

...even without the potatoes.

Especially at this little hole in the wall.

My iphone gave my blackberry

a swift kick in the behind a few weeks ago.

Nothing eases a worried mind like a solid work day.

The person who waxes your brows

has the power to change your face.

In SLC...go here for a stellar job.

Never...I repeat...never let your pedicurist do you brows again.

We're all secretly staring down our own high dive

...and most of us don't talk about it.

Someone I love very much might or might not

be the next contestant your favorite reality show.

(wish I could tell you more!!!)

Some of my favorite people are those who laugh easily and often.

Shelby's impression of Victoria kills me every time.

Seriously, I die.

My dad has become the new Rev Run.

If you're on his email list...you know.

Love it.

I'll never overcome the fear of my parking garage,

no matter what time of day.

I'll always love James.

Always.

Netflix = the bomb.

(I know...everyone that has had it for years...I get it...you're cooler.)

Pray for Chile

2010-03-01T12:38:00.000-08:00

Gracias A La Vida

Violeta Parra

Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto
me dio dos luceros que cuando los abro
perfecto distingo lo negro del blanco
y en el alto cielo su fondo estrellado
y en las multitudes el hombre que yo amo

Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto
me ha dado el oído que en todo su ancho
graba noche y día grillos y canarios
martirios, turbinas, ladridos, chubascos
y la voz tan tierna de mi bien amado

Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto
me ha dado el sonido y el abecedario
con él, las palabras que pienso y declaro
madre, amigo, hermano
y luz alumbrando la ruta del alma del que estoy amando

Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto
me ha dado la marcha de mis pies cansados
con ellos anduve ciudades y charcos
playas y desiertos, montañas y llanos
y la casa tuya, tu calle y tu patio

Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto
me dio el corazón que agita su marco
cuando miro el fruto del cerebro humano
cuando miro el bueno tan lejos del malo
cuando miro el fondo de tus ojos claros

Gracias a la vida que me ha dado tanto
me ha dado la risa y me ha dado el llanto
así yo distingo dicha de quebranto
los dos materiales que forman mi canto
y el canto de ustedes que es el mismo canto
y el canto de todos que es mi propio canto

Gracias a la vida, gracias a la vida

Do I Even Need to Explain?

2010-02-24T22:48:00.000-08:00

Sister Brag

2010-02-19T15:35:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of sister Jenna's

photographies.
Pressure her to post more of them on her dormant blog
here.

My peer pressuring worked earlier this month
when I enlisted family and friends to
convince this little nugget
to audition for the Playmill.

I was part of their 2005 cast.

It has a special place in my heart.
Oh...
and she made it.
Get your tickets to see her
in
Beauty and the Beast
and
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
this summer.
So proud.

Sesame Sheets, Velcro, the Monty, and World Peace.

2010-01-15T18:49:00.000-08:00

My facebook account has recently been
bombarded with a slew of
old pictures from my
beloved high school,
college days,
and childhood.
I'm lovin it.
Here are some highlights
from the past
life and times of
ShaLyse Walker.
Yes, I have a big L in my name...if you didn't already know.
Let's start from the beginning:

Then there was high school.
I loved
lipstick, my friends, efy, and dances.

And then college.
Where I loved Vanessa...

Michelle....

Modeling Velcro Towels

Giant keyboards in Vegas.

And pageants...
two that is.

Hope you enjoyed.
Don't judge too much.

Yurt. Viking Yurt.

2009-12-18T18:41:00.000-08:00

This Wednesday...

I will be eating a Christmas dinner

in one of these.

It's called Yurt.

A Viking Yurt.

That's after we take a sleigh ride

from The Canyons at 8,000 feet...

and snow shoe 1.5 miles

to this wintery hideaway.

(don't I sound like a commercial? Don't mind if I continue...)

We'll then eat a 4 course dinner

accompanied by a musician

tickling the ivories of a baby grand...

just like the Vikings did.

My enablers

for this experience

will be the best part...

An adventurous bunch,

indeed.

Can't wait.

Learn more about this brilliance here.

The Wonder Years

2009-12-17T20:04:00.000-08:00

Remember bathing in Tommy Girl
from 7th - 9th grade?
Oh...and don't forget dressing
in your Hilfiger duds to match.
Dallen and I laugh about our Tommy days.
I have pictures...
but I have enough shame not to post them.
I will admit this though...
I still secretly
sniff sniff sniff
this when I go into any department store.
Let's be real...
it smells delish!

Alas...

I'm too embarrassed to buy it...
lest someone ask me what I'm wearing.

My Weekend

2009-12-14T17:04:00.000-08:00

My weekend consisted of

a fancy date to the LA Opera,

Seeing this quirky and hilarious movie,

A visit to the set of this TV Show,

Eating these

And of course...
my favorite part...
dis.
(see heart throb on right)

Happy, happy

girl.

Feeling Very Giddy

2009-12-10T18:25:00.000-08:00

I'm going to LA to see Dil
tonight.
See you Tuesday.

side note: Text me if you're in the area and free.
I'm wide open from 7am-7pm.

Mummy

2009-12-09T18:34:00.000-08:00

1984.

I'm in this picture too.

Isn't she beautiful?

The Eye of the Beholder

2009-12-05T00:39:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder

what you'd look like

if you could see yourself

through someone else's eyes?

Well...

I found out...

and I was fugs.

Disneyland was supposed to be

the happiest place on earth.

(see the final product of me on the art board)

Speechless.

Why You Should Major In Broadcast

2009-12-04T18:36:00.000-08:00

You get to carry large guns.

Meet one of Barb's 10 Most Fascinating People of 2009.

Hang out extensively with naked cowboys.

Escort the VIP's VIPs to Miley in Bryant Park.

Pretend like you're important.

Predict the weather even though you have no idea what you're talking about.

Test out beach products with the other interns at GMA.

Attend very serious Broadcast Conferences featuring Bob Barker
(Notice my nylons.)

But really...it was a serious conference. I swear.

Act like you're having fun pulling archived video.

Sing with Gospel Choirs

And make a slew of new friends.

Now run along...change your major!

Happy Place

2009-12-02T20:25:00.000-08:00

Do you have a place you could wander through

everyday

and never tire of it?

Mine used to be Nordstrom.

The grand piano...

marble floors...

e-bar...

and beautiful items up for purchase

were enough to cheer up any case of the drabs.

Then...I stopped working there...

and lost my employee discount.

It's still a very happy place for me nevertheless.

(Ok...time to stop...this is getting shallower... and shallower sounding.

Plus...I may want to take into account my

"single lady" status before continuing.

On second thought... c'mon, you know you love it too.)

Lately...

I love love love

strolling through

Williams-Sonoma.

Partly because bestie Allie works there...

and other-partly because...

well...I just like it.

Appliances...cookie cutters...mixers

oh my!

Try their Sprinkles cupcake mixes.

No plane ticket to CA,

no lines,

a little work,

a lot of delicious.

Tom Tom

2009-12-02T17:01:00.000-08:00

These attractive,

young, college age

ladies live in

Sugarhouse.

(My sissy being the second from the left.)

I'm not telling you which street,

just in case you're reading this

Tom.

But I'm kind of thinking

you should come stay with me

for while Denny.

See why here.

Jus' sayin.

Let me Clarify...

2009-12-01T18:18:00.000-08:00

In my sidebar,

you might see that

one of the descriptions of myself

"one time juvenile delinquent."

No,

I am not a klepto.

Not an underage drinker,

or a drinker for that matter either.

No, I did not

get caught smoking behind the school,

or streaking at football game...

we'll leave those shenanigans to the boys.

What I did do,

is break a unique

Idaho law...

which says that you can drive at 15...

but not at night until you're 16.

I didn't take the "at night"

part seriously.

The punishment?

60 hours of lovely community service

(entering recruiting forms at the Marine Corps and finding out everything

every boy at my high school ever did, plus their weight, height, and

what the recruiter thought of them in the "notes" section).

Also,

the State of Idaho

gifted me with a

probation officer by the name of Tanya,

and lots of personal time in the lobby

outside her office

with kleptos, underage drinkers, etc.

as I waited for our weekly visit.

It was a fabulous little

white-trash experience.

I never drove at night again before my 16th birthday.

And Curtis,

the family lawyer,

convinced Tanya to set me free

as soon as my community service was done.

I finished it in 3 weeks...

before orange-vest highway clean-up time.

Praise.

Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T13:19:00.001-08:00

Isn't this a great recipe for happiness in relationships too?

I had the most beautiful Thanksgiving weekend...

starting Wednesday

as I watched Dallen step off the airport curb

and into my car.

So much to be grateful for!!!

I haven't been as happy as I was

the last few days

in a long time.

'Tis the season.

WHYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY (think Annie Lennox)

2009-11-25T15:48:00.000-08:00

Yes,

this picture was taken in February, 2009.
Nine months ago.
Nine.
I've had one little
itty bitty trim.
My hair is the same length.
Vitamins? Check.
(more than you know. I love taking vitamins.)
No or very seldom flat ironing? Check.
Wearing my hair curly for the last SIX months? Check.
Good Shampoo? Check.
Not Shampooing everyday? Check.
(sorry if you're grossed out now)
I'm spent.
Tell me...
Whyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.
(if you know it, sing it.)

ps. if you're going to tell me to trim my hair more often,
save your comment for the birds.
I don't believe in that.

Don't Mind If I Do!

2009-11-25T10:20:00.001-08:00

Anthro Days!
Anthro Days!
Thank you
sister
for your employment.

You know I needed
some comfies
for frigid
Utah winters.
And yes,
you are seeing
same thing,
in two colors.

Should I be embarrassed?

John.

2009-11-20T18:42:00.000-08:00

If you know me,

you know I love me some
John.
Make haste
and get
Battle Studies.

He didn't let me down.
Especially with
Heartbreak Warfare,
Assasin,
and Friends, Lovers, or Nothing.
But I'm sure those will change
to other favorites soon.
Did I tell you about how he tossed me his pick?
Another time my dears,
another time.