Throwback

Just for fun, here's a throwback video from my days at Eagle High School when we won the 2005 State Championships in cheerleading. It's blurry, but see if you can spot me... I'm the super-blonde wearing the white knee brace (I shouldn't be too hard to spot). My sister was in this, too! She's got a super-long brown ponytail.

The photos below are fun to look back on, as well. The top photo was our close group of girlfriends, minus one or two. In the bottom photo, I'm in the middle and my sister is on the far left.

Oh, high school. Those were the days... "Go Eagle Go, YEAH!"

Hurdles

Source.

Draw a picture.

Paint a life—

a looped track.

A start. A finish.

Many lanes to choose from,

hurdles along the way.

Some hurdles—so high.

They appear too big to cross.

But maybe—just maybe

they can't be jumped over,

but instead slowly climbed and

defeated.

Always—there will be hurdles.

Approach them.

Surmout with grace.

Never give up.

It may be a long, hard race,

but the finish holds

all the glory.

An original poem - 5.30.13

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The idea for this poem came to me today while I was driving to the gym.
I pulled over and grabbed a pen and paper... and just wrote.
This is the result.
Your picture of life may not resemble a track like mine, but I tell you what, we all have hurdles.
Don't let them stop you. Don't let them get you down.
They may slow you down a little... but when you cross them, you will be a better person.
Here's to conquering every hurdle & finishing the race with grace, strength, and a beautiful story to tell.

Don't Read This, Dad

Shoes: Mizuno

Father's Day is coming up quick—in 3 weeks—and it always seems to be one of the holidays when I can't think of anything to do for my dad. He spends his time traveling between Boise, McCall and Palm Desert, California, and trust me, if he wants it, he already has it. This Father's Day, I'm giving him an adorable coupon book that is designed for him and his girlfriend. It's filled with coupons like "take an evening neighborhood stroll," "wine tasting," and "a day of golf." I'm sure they'll use the coupons up quickly because it's all the things they love to do most!

If you're looking for something fun for Father's Day, make sure to visit Datevitation. They have coupon books starting around $20, and can be customized for parents, kids, and date nights. The cut-off day for Father's Day orders is June 6, so get 'em in while you can! Make sure to use code AUNIESAUCE for $10 off. 

What are you doing for your Dad for Father's Day? The more ideas I can gather, the better!

White White Pants

Earrings: c/o JoJo Loves You, Headband: Mila Rose Designs, Sunglasses: c/o Firmoo (use code AUNIESAUCEBLOGE2 for 30% off), Eyeliner: Sephora, Blazer: Express, Shoes: c/o Tailor and Stylist, Pants: Rocks & Indigo, Purse: Vera Bradley

I hardly hardly ever where white pants. Without fail, I always seem to get them dirty. At work, out to eat, going for a walk—you name it, I'll put a stain on 'em. In fact, I think I only have about 3 white pieces in my entire closet because of my past clothes-ruining history. But somehow, this look with my white pants & denim blazer lasted me all day... so it looks like the white pants will live to see another day... for now anyway.

PS / / want some sparkly earrings like the green ones I'm wearing above? Click HERE for the JoJo Loves You big annual sale! I'm wearing the Mini Party Bling in Apple. Shop shop shop & have a great weekend!

Things You May Not Know...

Sunglasses: c/o Firmoo (use code AUNIESAUCEBLOGE2 for 30% off), Jacket: Apricot Lane, Top: Thrifted F21, Photos: Taylor Love Studios

Things you may not know about me:

1. My name is pronounced Ana-Lisa, not Anne-Elise. My nickname is pronounced Ah-nee (like the fancy aunty, without the "t"), not Annie. I get called "Annie" all. the. time. 
2. I go to the gym (or run, bike or walk) 7-days a week.
3. I watch one—and only one—TV show a week, Castle. If it weren't for football season, we'd cancel cable.
4. I have 2 tattoos.
5. I'm a super-perfectionist about my nails. They have to be squarely filed and hangnail free at all times. I don't cry over broken nails... but I sure do fix them right away.
6. I have tried more mascara than any other makeup product. At one point, I had over 40 different tubes. 
7. A bad eyelash day is way worse than a bad hair day.
8. Every single time I shave my legs, I get razor burn. It's awful... I've tried everything. I have always been jealous of people who have silky-smooth, hardly-hairy legs. That probably sounds really dumb... but it's something I deal with daily.
9. I have to be really careful around alcohol because of my family history... so I usually try to avoid it, though nothing tastes better than a frozen salted margarita while sitting on a restaurant patio on a hot day.
10. I hardly, hardly wear heels, and am considering donating every pair I own (all 6 or so of them).
11. A Carmel Apple Crisp ice cream cone from our local ice cream shop Delsa's is like eating a sugar cone of heaven. 
12. Also, I don't eat ice cream in a cup when we go out (has to be a cone), but I will eat it in a bowl at home. 
13. At first, I never wanted children (ever, ever, ever). Then, I told myself that if I did have kids, I would like to have my first when I was 27. I'll be 27 in 3-months... and yeah... 

... that's probably enough about me for today. What's something people might not know about you?

Me & Icy Running: A Blog Post From My Mom

Preface: I look up to my mom more than anyone in the entire world. She's beautiful, she's fit, she's always the life of the party, and she's a wonderful story teller... so I asked her to tell her side (my side can be read here) of our running together. Also—Aunie is my nickname in Daniel's family—but in MY family, I have always gone by Icy. I couldn't say Annelise when I was younger, so Icy it was. Enjoy.

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Annelise asked me to write a guest blog for her about our race at the Idaho Potato Marathon.  I’ve not written a blog before so here goes......

First and foremost, we love to run together.  We train at the same pace.  We even run the same way meaning we look the same when we run.  Seriously!  This was our fifth half-marathon together and we plan to one day run a full marathon together.  I’ve run three of those and I know she can do it too.  She just needs to convince herself that she can do it!

Why do we do it?  We love the planning, the training, the commitment and the excuse to get new running gear (of course)!   We get together to plan for the races.  We train long runs on the weekends.  I have to give her most of the credit....She does all the searches for races and course mapping.  I just show up to encourage her along the way.  Sometimes she gets cranky...at times her tummy doesn’t really want to run but I keep her going with that half step in front of her.  She’ll notice and scold me for speeding up but I know I’m keeping her on pace.  At the end she will always have that last kick.  We hold hands over the finish line to make that push together.

This was one of the best races for us.  Great weather, easy flat course running from Lucky Peak Dam into Boise, fun people and stellar outfits!  You’ve probably noticed our matching outfits in her previous blogs and Facebook posts.  She loves the BRIGHT stuff.  Anything neon is her favorite.  Last week while shopping I got there before her and picked out the capris I know she would love.  She did but they were just too funky for me.  We compromise with a lot of laughs while trying on the options!  We may sound like we make a big deal about the outfits and I guess we do.  That’s part of the fun of the event.  But we also run hard and pick the right gear to get the job done.  Just because it’s cute, doesn’t mean it doesn’t work!  There are times when we are out there and are dumbfounded by the inappropriate clothes people wear...ill-fitting, too tight, too sheer and mismatched (oh no).  AND it is entirely irritating when they pass us!  How can they pass us when they aren’t wearing good running clothes.  Really!  (I had to bring up the fashion side since what blog of Annelise’s doesn’t have fashion sense in it!)

Sometimes it is those that pass us that do amaze and sometimes inspire us. Not the elite runners because you expect that but those that surprise us.  The 75 year old man that runs stooped over or the first time runner that didn’t train.  I plan on running as long as I can and I would love to be an 80 year old still running in a race!  BTW, with my daughter along my side!

Finally, I want to bring up the bigger picture in all of this.  I don’t care what you choose to do with your child but just DO IT.  Don’t wait until you have more time or more money.  And make it meaningful and individual with them.  Something you both like to do.  It can be anything – garage sale together, go “real estating”, takes the dogs on walks, golf, frisbee golf, bicycle, play games, hike....  Don’t just go to a movie or eat out – we do that with everyone else.  If it is a meal, plan the recipes and cook it together or make a new dessert each week.  Our running is so much more than running.  It is our time to talk, share, dream and plan.  Don’t miss out on how much fun that can be and how close it can bring you together.  I don’t think there is anything Annelise can’t say to me (even if it might be TMI!).  So no matter who you are, be inspired to pick up the phone or go home tonight and grab that kid of yours and go for a run.  You’ll love it!

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I love you, Mom. For anyone reading this—today more than ever—get out there and spend time with the ones you love... and then take the extra step—hold someone close to you today. Say a little prayer for a stranger. Lend a helping hand. You never know how far your touch can reach.

Famous Idaho Potato Half Marathon

On Saturday, my mom and I ran the Famous Idaho Potato Half Marathon! We had a ton of fun! As I mentioned last week, we didn't train for it at all, so our goal was simply no walking. We should have been more ambitious, because not only did we rock the run, but we came in just under two hours, at a time of 1:58. Our fastest half is 1:48, so for no training I'd say we totally killed it. We ran the race with our friends Sean & Sydney, and we all finished right around the same time. We were all happy to have finished under two hours. 

Overall, the race went great. We passed people holding signs that said, "Chuck Norris never ran a marathon," and "Toenails are overrated!" We love people watching, and it always makes the race go by quickly. I think what amazed me the most were the thousands of people out doing wonderful things for their bodies. It was so encouraging! 

I started getting tired around mile 11, and when we came around the last bend, I saw Daniel standing in the grass right at mile 13, cheering us on, and it was all I needed to help me finish strong. I don't think there's anything better than a big smile & kiss from your husband right as you finish a long race. It makes it all worth it! 

I'll tell you what, after the race, Daniel and I went to Cracker Barrel, and I had a big stack of Marion blackberry pancakes, a bowl of their homemade mac-and-cheese, a glass of chocolate milk, and a huge side of absolutely-no-guilt-what-so-ever. Later that afternoon, I even indulged in a well-deserved nap. It was the best day. 

Next up on our list is a full marathon. We don't know which, but we're looking for ones in the Pacific Northwest that are really fun! Suggestions are welcome. Here's to fun races, being active with family, and lots and lots of sweat. 

Hey Aunie, Want To Run a Half Marathon? SURE, WHY NOT!

I've always been a runner. I won a one-mile fun run when I was about 10-years old, and I haven't stopped since. In high school, I ran track and competed in the 400, 800, 4x400, 4x800 and every other relay that involved either of those distances... heck, I even won my Senior Districts in the 400, and my 4x400 team took home the State gold medal. During my first year in college, I was on the track team at the University of Redlands and my main events were the 400, 800, 4x400 and the 400 hurdles.

After transferring back to Boise State and joining their cheerleading program, I began running long distance with my mom (who has run 3 full marathons, including Boston) in our spare time. In June of 2009, my mom and I ran our first race together, the See Jane Run "Chocolate and Champagne" Half Marathon (left photo), and finished in 1:48 and first in our age groups. Later in October of 2009, my mom and I again ran another half, the Prison Break Half Marathon. I don't have a photo of us because I had the flu the week of the race and got very sick mid-race, so was in no shape for photos afterward. Two weeks later in November, we ran Zeitgeist (middle photo), a half marathon that travels through the Boise foothills. And then, two years later in April of 2011, we ran Race to Robie Creek (right photo). It's the toughest marathon in the Northwest, and it rocked us (well, me anyway). If you want more juicy race details AND my typical training schedule, read this post!

Anyway—long story short—last week, our friends asked us to run the Famous Idaho Potato Half Marathon with them. My mom and I looked at each other, shrugged our shoulders, and said, "Why not?!" Also, it should be noted that I haven't run more than 30-minutes since that last half marathon in 2011... so with absolutely NO training except for two 1-hour (6-mile) runs this week, tomorrow, we are running the Famous Idaho Potato Half Marathon... which is 13.1 miles...so it should be interesting, to say the least!

Oh, and yes, we will be wearing matching outfits—our favorite race tradition. Wish us luck... the gun goes off tomorrow at 7:00 am!

Yes To Spring & Summer Essentials

I have a new post on the Yes To Carrots blog—it's about my warm weather essentials. And let me tell you what, that little red Spot Stick in the middle works wonders... I kid you not—it's a little miracle pimple zapper. Click HERE to see the full post and my 3 must-haves for this season's warm weather!

Oh, and in case you're curious, to find out how I became the Yes To Carrots "Yes To Stylista," read this post. Now it's your turn—what are your essentials for spring & summer?

Hair Bow Love

Over the past year, I've had to opportunity to work with the most amazing woman, Andrea, who is the mastermind behind Aidie's Hideaway. She makes the cutest bows, garland, hair ties and accessories. Andrea (who also has a blog) has always been supportive and nice—and she even comments on my blog often! She is a business owner who gives back to the blogging community, and I love her for it.

She recently did a little spring update of her Etsy shop, and today she's giving away a $30 credit for her fun bows and headbands. She's always creating and crafting new items, so enter here and make sure to head over to her shop to browse her fun accessories. The giveaway is open to US residents only... good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Boise Foothills

Top: Daytrip, Jeans: Express, Shoes: Vans, Bracelet: c/o Massi, Ring: c/o The Vintage Pearl, Watch: Rumba, Sunglasses: c/o Firmoo (use code AUNIESAUCEBLOGE2 for 30% off)

Not a care in the world,

perched high above the city,

overlooking Boise—

she sure is pretty. 

Bathed in green—

the "City of Trees"—

the songs of little birds

carried by the breeze. 

Through swirling clouds,
the sun shines its light,
over the Boise foothills—
a beautiful sight.

An original poem - 5.14.13

McCall Weekend Trip

On Friday, Daniel and I drove up to McCall, Idaho to celebrate my Dad's girlfriend's birthday. We ate dinner at the Southside Grill (formerly Si Bueno), and then went back to the cabin and played 10 Penny while enjoying licorice, Drumsticks and The Wedding Singer.

Saturday, we slept in—what a treat that was—and biked down to Paradise Burgers for lunch. After that, Daniel and I decided to take the Payette Lake Loop (a 16-mile bike ride), which took us around the entire Payette Lake. It was a beautiful ride—filled with gorgeous lake, waterfall, and river views—and afterward we treated ourselves to slices of heaven at Growler's Pizza.

It was a fun weekend getaway, and we made it back just in time Sunday morning to go to church and head to my mom's for Mother's Day brunch. I love the weekends... especially when they're filled with impromptu road trips and time to sit back, relax, and just take it all in.

Vintage-Inspired Floral

Sunglasses: c/o Firmoo (use code AUNIESAUCEBLOGE2 for 30% off), Top: Thrifted F21, Pants: Rocks & Indigo, Belt: Mossimo, Sandals: Merona, Leather Bracelets: c/o Payton Jewelry Design (Brown Zen Wrap & Skinny Wrap), Ring: c/o The Vintage Pearl, Photos: Taylor Love Studios

If I could pick one outfit to wear every single day for the rest of my life, it would be skinnies and a t-shirt. Simple. Comfortable. So very me. I'd also add a couple leather wrap bracelets, some sunglasses, and let my hair air dry to make easy & carefree waves. As summer comes around the corner, I'll probably swap the pants for shorts... but honestly, this outfit is just me lately.

Also, I just received these sunglasses from Firmoo and wanted to pass along a little kudos to them. I've worked with them time and time again, and this is my first pair of shades that I've picked (I have 4 pairs of prescription glasses from them, too). I love them. The gold and tortoise are just what I'm looking for this season. And if you haven't heard of Firmoo, you should know that they do a first pair free program, where all you pay is shipping. If you want step-by-step directions to redeem the free glasses, read this post. They're awesome, and if you need a new pair of prescription or fashion glasses/sunglasses, this is the place to go. Go grab yourself some & then get out and enjoy the weekend!

PS (but truly the most important thing of all) / / Happy Happy Birthday to my brother-in-law Andy and my dad's girlfriend Karen! Love you both so much & I'm so grateful to have you in my life!

Casual Office Outfit & A Birthday Recap

Sweater: Francesca's, Pants: Mossimo, Shoes & Tank: Thrifted, Purse: Volcom, Glasses: c/o Firmoo

This outfit, though nothing to write home about, is my "just woke up—need to get to the gym—throw it in the gym bag" office outfit. Skinny black pants, a light tank and a cardigan—oh, and don't forget the messy bun and glasses. It's simple and it's comfortable for sitting at a desk or moving around the office. I'm so fortunate that I work in a flexible office environment where just about anything goes.

Oh—and yesterday's celebration for Daniel's Birthday was amazing. He said he just wanted to grill at home with family, but I ended up inviting over about 30 of our friends & family members... for a surprise party! It was awesome. He was home when people started arriving and every time the door opened and a new face appeared, he got a bigger and bigger grin on his face. He was totally surprised and we ended up with a giant potluck house party. It was wonderful. A big thanks to all our friends who came over!

29.

Dear Daniel,

          Happy 29th Birthday! Are you really 29 already? I can't believe how fast the last year has gone by. I am so excited to celebrate this birthday with you as your wife.

          Last year, the first year I got to celebrate your birthday with you, I wrote you a letter about remembering all our firsts. And you know what? This year we've had so many more. From getting engaged in McCall, to you going away to Texas for 6-weeks for your Air Guard training, to getting married at our church with our entire church family there with us, to our first long road trip to Palm Desert, to all the new things we've learned about each other... I can't even believe how full this last year has been.

          You know, one of the things we always talk about is how we're always so busy. I love that about us. I love that we're always go-go-going and that we always have plans. And whether we're out around town, snuggling on the couch, feeding the frogs in the pond, or just stealing a moment together—as long as I'm with you—it's where I want to be. Each day, we are building so many memories. And every single memory I have—when it's with you—is a good one...one might say, "So good! So good!"

          Thank you for being that rock and positive influence in my life. Thank you for all that you're teaching me. Thank you for being a wonderful, amazing, brilliant husband. I appreciate you and the love you give me more and more each day. Happy Birthday, sweets. I love you.

                                                                                                                                          Love love love,

                                                                                                                                              Your Aunie ♥

Small Biz Love Affair

Scarf: c/o Barbabas Clothing (use code BS2012-20 for 20% off), Top: The North Face, Jeans: Express, Sandals: Merona, Purse: c/o Cuore & Pelle, Earrings & Bracelet: Premier Design, Ring: c/o The Vintage Pearl, Watch: Rumba

Today I'm collaborating with a couple brilliant ladies for Small Biz Love Affair. It's a group of bloggers who get together to promote a small business with amazing products to give their brand exposure and lots of kudos! This time around we're featuring accessories from Barnabas Clothing. Barnabas is a company that gives back. They donate 10% of all their sales to the Living Room International, a hospice and medical center for HIV/AIDS in Western Kenya, Africa.

Each piece of clothing from Barnabas comes with a "Because Of You" statement. The scarf that I am wearing will help provide one mother with water for a week. Wow... it is amazing to know that one little purchase can go so far in one person's life. Also, my scarf is so soft. It's bright, it's lightweight, and it has a really cool anchor design on it.

You can visit Barnabas here: Shop // Facebook // Twitter // Pinterest. If you head to their shop, make sure to use coupon code BS2012-20 for 20% off!

See how we styled our Barnabas scarves for the Small Biz Love Affair! Aunie Sauce // I Wore Yoga Pants To Work // Pink On The Cheek // Olive & Ivy.