Showing posts with label bucket list. Show all posts
Showing posts with label bucket list. Show all posts
Happy Thursday Friends! I officially turn 31 tomorrow which means I'll be living in my thirties. Ay yi yi. I love me some June. Yes, I'm totally biased towards the month of June but it's so dang good, add in a birthday and it's the best. It's officially summer; people are down to vacation, go to happy hour and enjoy the best weather ever. I swear summer puts everyone in a better mood.
I started doing this post last year and I loved recapping all the good things my 29th year had to offer. Plus, it's so fun looking back years later. I'm officially in my thirties people. I'm growing up. Grab a glass of wine, coffee and a comfy space on the couch, this is a long post. 30 was a good year, but I'm ready to say goodbye. Tomorrow, I turn 31, lets get recapping.
ONE // Baby! Let's start with our most exciting news, baby! It's been a year of baby (I'll get to that later) but celebrating this healthy little babe has been our biggest joy this year. She might not be here in my 30th year, but being pregnant during my 30th year has been such a huge blessing.
TWO // The big job change. For my mental, emotional and physical health, I switched jobs late last year and bless, it's been a huge blessing to me. While it took me a while to get through my pride of not being an attorney anymore, I'm so glad I took the jump.
THREE // 3 years of wedded bliss. Adam and I celebrated 3 years of marriage. It doesn't seem long enough to encompass everything we'd done together, but oh what a wonderful three years it's been. I'm lucky to have a husband who supports me through the crazy, through the tough times and through the joys.
FOUR // Napa. Adam and I ventured to Napa for one of my best friends amazing wedding. Dancing under the stars in the middle of wine country is something I want to do every weekend. It was such an incredible weekend full of love. Callie and I have been friends since our freshman year in college and watching her marry her love was incredible. I love celebrating best friends weddings.
FIVE // I started binge watching Younger. This is a new revolution in my life and I'm hooked. If you aren't watching Younger, stop everything, grab your Hulu and get watching. The new season just started so I've got a full 4 seasons to catch up on.
SIX // Skied. This winter, I skied for the first time since tearing my ACL Yes, I only skied greens and I took level 1 ski lessons, but I did it and felt amazing. It was so fun and I got 2 glorious days on the mountain. Then I found out I was pregnant so that quickly ended my ski days, but have no fear, I'll be back next winter.
SEVEN // All the photoshoots. I promised myself I'd jump into more photoshoots for the blog and boy did I. I even got Adam on the photo-taking bandwagon. I did around 10 photoshoots throughout the year and I grew this incredible space. I partnered with some amazing maternity lines, shoe lines and makeup. It was such a fun year for this space.
EIGHT // Insta-stories. Started getting a little more comfortable with Insta-stories. I love getting to connect to my readers in a new way and insta-stories is such a fun way to do so.
NINE // TAYLOR SWIFT. Call me a nerd, but I've never missed a Taylor Swift tour. This is my 5th Taylor concert. Yep, I even went to the concert where she dressed as a country princess, all the way to snakes and anti-kardashian Taylor. I'm a not ashamed huge Taylor fan.
TEN // Baby Girl! Lets piggy back on number 1, but not only did we find out we're pregnant, but we found out baby kavan is a girl! Cue all the pink, ruffles and dolls I can get my hands on. Adam doesn't even know the cuteness that is coming!
ELEVEN // Henry turned 9 and Lola turned 2 (today!) This is the last year they'll be the only babies in our house.
TWELVE // Found my love for podcasts. Everyone has been telling me for years I need to start listening and I was really never convinced. Until now. Adam and I road-tripped a few times and found some new favorites and now instead of listening to jams at work, podcasts are my thing.
THIRTEEN // Target. Fell in love with Target clothes and my addiction is only getting stronger. From shoes to maternity, to mens clothes to dresses, I love it. I've had to put boundaries on myself or else I'd be there literally every day.
FOURTEEN // We suffered a miscarriage. While this isn't exactly a hi-light of this year, it's a huge thing that happened to me. If we're being honest here, it was one of the worst things ever. It was the biggest heartbreak I've ever felt. But it also taught me a lot about myself, my body and my relationship with Adam. It helped us grow together and realize what we really want.
FIFTEEN // Jackson, WY. We spent Easter in Jackson, WY with some of our friends. I ate at Persephone Bakery 3x, the group skied, we ate the best Thai food ever and relaxed in the snowy mountain town. If you haven't been to Jackson yet, book a trip! It will be your favorite.
SIXTEEN // Weekends with my parents. My parents came to visit for a long weekend. The boys skied, the girls shopped and it was some great quality time with my fambam. Plus, my mom and I got in some early baby shopping!
SEVENTEEN // Trips to Omaha, NCAA tournaments and 2 year old birthday parties. Our weekends in Omaha are always jam packed but so full of family and friends.
EIGHTEEN // Sonoma. In the mood of weddings, we went back to Sonoma for another wedding and it involved the same. Love, dancing under the stars and lots of wine. I'm lucky that my best friends love wine country as much as I do.
NINETEEN // Wisconsin. Last year was the year of weddings and we were lucky enough to get the opportunity to travel the country celebrating our dearest friends. Adams long time friend, Teddy got married in Milwaukee and it was so fun because I'd never been. We ate great meals and again, danced the night away.
TWENTY // Bought Kristin Cavallari's cookbook and cooked from it every night for a month. I wish I was kidding. I never particularly liked Kristin on The Hills, but I'm low-key obsessed with her now.
TWENTY-ONE // Michigan. My sweet grandparents are getting old and unfortunately we had to move them out of their house. The perk? Getting to spend quality time with family and my grandmother. Michigan will always hold a really special place in my heart. It's where my family is from and by default, me.
TWENTY-TWO // Decaf coffee became a thing. Started drinking decaf coffee and no caffeine all together. Blame it on the baby.
TWENTY-THREE // Laguna Beach & baby showers. One of my favorite things about this pregnancy is getting to do it with some of my favorite friends. My gf Kate is pregnant and we're due 6 weeks of each other and last weekend I got to venture out and celebrate her and her baby boy. This season of life can be a little isolating and getting to do it with a gf is the best.
TWENTY-FOUR // Tough mudder. Adam was a boss and ran his second tough mudder in Copper Mountain. If you haven't heard about this its a crazy race with lots of obstacles and challenges and it tires me out just watching him. He's incredible.
TWENTY-FIVE // Phoenix Open. 5 days in Scottsdale and the warm Arizona air. Everyone here loves how much I love Arizona so Adam and I left cold January Denver and ventured to Arizona to spend the weekend with both our families under the warm sun, watching golf. We also got to tell our families we were pregnant this weekend. It was so fun to do this in person, in my favorite state.
TWENTY-SIX // Estes Park. Adams family came out for his birthday and we hit Estes Park. IT was so fun touring the national park, celebrating Adam and getting extra time with family. If you haven't been to Estes Park you should go, my advice? Maybe not in the middle of the summer, its very touristy!
TWENTY-SEVEN // Grew my blog, my instagram and this space. I finally hit 2000 followers, changed the trajectory of this space a little and learned to really love what I'm creating. Thanks to you!
TWENTY-EIGHT // 24 books in 12 months. I challenged myself to 24 books in one year. I'm half way through the year and only on book 10. I gotta get to work!
TWENTY-NINE // My sister-in-laws came to Denver and we had the best weekend venturing around the city. We hiked, ate and drank our way through the city, had spa days in my bathroom, drank champagne on the grass, got into a free rockies game and enjoyed each other's company. I absolutely LOVE having friends come to Denver, it's so fun showing them the city I call home.
THIRTY // Learned to trust my body, my gut and myself a little bit more. This year has been really trying, but also so incredible. Right after we miscarried, I never felt more betrayed by my own body, and me. We wanted a baby so much and I couldn't help but think losing that baby was my fault, my bodies fault. And then, months later, we got pregnant again and I trusted my body a little more. I quit my job where I had security and stabilty for something so different, and with that I trusted myself a little more. It's been a year of growth and joys and I'm so excited for next year.
Thanks to my readers, my friends and my family for getting me through another year, pushing me, supporting me, encouraging me and loving me through the past year!

I started doing this post last year and I loved recapping all the good things my 29th year had to offer. Plus, it's so fun looking back years later. I'm officially in my thirties people. I'm growing up. Grab a glass of wine, coffee and a comfy space on the couch, this is a long post. 30 was a good year, but I'm ready to say goodbye. Tomorrow, I turn 31, lets get recapping.
ONE // Baby! Let's start with our most exciting news, baby! It's been a year of baby (I'll get to that later) but celebrating this healthy little babe has been our biggest joy this year. She might not be here in my 30th year, but being pregnant during my 30th year has been such a huge blessing.
TWO // The big job change. For my mental, emotional and physical health, I switched jobs late last year and bless, it's been a huge blessing to me. While it took me a while to get through my pride of not being an attorney anymore, I'm so glad I took the jump.
THREE // 3 years of wedded bliss. Adam and I celebrated 3 years of marriage. It doesn't seem long enough to encompass everything we'd done together, but oh what a wonderful three years it's been. I'm lucky to have a husband who supports me through the crazy, through the tough times and through the joys.
FOUR // Napa. Adam and I ventured to Napa for one of my best friends amazing wedding. Dancing under the stars in the middle of wine country is something I want to do every weekend. It was such an incredible weekend full of love. Callie and I have been friends since our freshman year in college and watching her marry her love was incredible. I love celebrating best friends weddings.
FIVE // I started binge watching Younger. This is a new revolution in my life and I'm hooked. If you aren't watching Younger, stop everything, grab your Hulu and get watching. The new season just started so I've got a full 4 seasons to catch up on.
SEVEN // All the photoshoots. I promised myself I'd jump into more photoshoots for the blog and boy did I. I even got Adam on the photo-taking bandwagon. I did around 10 photoshoots throughout the year and I grew this incredible space. I partnered with some amazing maternity lines, shoe lines and makeup. It was such a fun year for this space.
EIGHT // Insta-stories. Started getting a little more comfortable with Insta-stories. I love getting to connect to my readers in a new way and insta-stories is such a fun way to do so.
NINE // TAYLOR SWIFT. Call me a nerd, but I've never missed a Taylor Swift tour. This is my 5th Taylor concert. Yep, I even went to the concert where she dressed as a country princess, all the way to snakes and anti-kardashian Taylor. I'm a not ashamed huge Taylor fan.
TEN // Baby Girl! Lets piggy back on number 1, but not only did we find out we're pregnant, but we found out baby kavan is a girl! Cue all the pink, ruffles and dolls I can get my hands on. Adam doesn't even know the cuteness that is coming!
ELEVEN // Henry turned 9 and Lola turned 2 (today!) This is the last year they'll be the only babies in our house.
TWELVE // Found my love for podcasts. Everyone has been telling me for years I need to start listening and I was really never convinced. Until now. Adam and I road-tripped a few times and found some new favorites and now instead of listening to jams at work, podcasts are my thing.
THIRTEEN // Target. Fell in love with Target clothes and my addiction is only getting stronger. From shoes to maternity, to mens clothes to dresses, I love it. I've had to put boundaries on myself or else I'd be there literally every day.
FOURTEEN // We suffered a miscarriage. While this isn't exactly a hi-light of this year, it's a huge thing that happened to me. If we're being honest here, it was one of the worst things ever. It was the biggest heartbreak I've ever felt. But it also taught me a lot about myself, my body and my relationship with Adam. It helped us grow together and realize what we really want.
FIFTEEN // Jackson, WY. We spent Easter in Jackson, WY with some of our friends. I ate at Persephone Bakery 3x, the group skied, we ate the best Thai food ever and relaxed in the snowy mountain town. If you haven't been to Jackson yet, book a trip! It will be your favorite.
SIXTEEN // Weekends with my parents. My parents came to visit for a long weekend. The boys skied, the girls shopped and it was some great quality time with my fambam. Plus, my mom and I got in some early baby shopping!
SEVENTEEN // Trips to Omaha, NCAA tournaments and 2 year old birthday parties. Our weekends in Omaha are always jam packed but so full of family and friends.
EIGHTEEN // Sonoma. In the mood of weddings, we went back to Sonoma for another wedding and it involved the same. Love, dancing under the stars and lots of wine. I'm lucky that my best friends love wine country as much as I do.
NINETEEN // Wisconsin. Last year was the year of weddings and we were lucky enough to get the opportunity to travel the country celebrating our dearest friends. Adams long time friend, Teddy got married in Milwaukee and it was so fun because I'd never been. We ate great meals and again, danced the night away.
TWENTY // Bought Kristin Cavallari's cookbook and cooked from it every night for a month. I wish I was kidding. I never particularly liked Kristin on The Hills, but I'm low-key obsessed with her now.
TWENTY-ONE // Michigan. My sweet grandparents are getting old and unfortunately we had to move them out of their house. The perk? Getting to spend quality time with family and my grandmother. Michigan will always hold a really special place in my heart. It's where my family is from and by default, me.
TWENTY-TWO // Decaf coffee became a thing. Started drinking decaf coffee and no caffeine all together. Blame it on the baby.
TWENTY-THREE // Laguna Beach & baby showers. One of my favorite things about this pregnancy is getting to do it with some of my favorite friends. My gf Kate is pregnant and we're due 6 weeks of each other and last weekend I got to venture out and celebrate her and her baby boy. This season of life can be a little isolating and getting to do it with a gf is the best.
TWENTY-FOUR // Tough mudder. Adam was a boss and ran his second tough mudder in Copper Mountain. If you haven't heard about this its a crazy race with lots of obstacles and challenges and it tires me out just watching him. He's incredible.
TWENTY-FIVE // Phoenix Open. 5 days in Scottsdale and the warm Arizona air. Everyone here loves how much I love Arizona so Adam and I left cold January Denver and ventured to Arizona to spend the weekend with both our families under the warm sun, watching golf. We also got to tell our families we were pregnant this weekend. It was so fun to do this in person, in my favorite state.
TWENTY-SIX // Estes Park. Adams family came out for his birthday and we hit Estes Park. IT was so fun touring the national park, celebrating Adam and getting extra time with family. If you haven't been to Estes Park you should go, my advice? Maybe not in the middle of the summer, its very touristy!
TWENTY-SEVEN // Grew my blog, my instagram and this space. I finally hit 2000 followers, changed the trajectory of this space a little and learned to really love what I'm creating. Thanks to you!
TWENTY-EIGHT // 24 books in 12 months. I challenged myself to 24 books in one year. I'm half way through the year and only on book 10. I gotta get to work!
TWENTY-NINE // My sister-in-laws came to Denver and we had the best weekend venturing around the city. We hiked, ate and drank our way through the city, had spa days in my bathroom, drank champagne on the grass, got into a free rockies game and enjoyed each other's company. I absolutely LOVE having friends come to Denver, it's so fun showing them the city I call home.
THIRTY // Learned to trust my body, my gut and myself a little bit more. This year has been really trying, but also so incredible. Right after we miscarried, I never felt more betrayed by my own body, and me. We wanted a baby so much and I couldn't help but think losing that baby was my fault, my bodies fault. And then, months later, we got pregnant again and I trusted my body a little more. I quit my job where I had security and stabilty for something so different, and with that I trusted myself a little more. It's been a year of growth and joys and I'm so excited for next year.
Thanks to my readers, my friends and my family for getting me through another year, pushing me, supporting me, encouraging me and loving me through the past year!
It's no secret I'm turning 30 this week. If you're not following along, I've been talking about my 30th birthday for like the last year. It's a new decade, a whole new 10 years. It's huge. And, I'm always down for a party. However, this may come as a shock, I'm not the biggest fan of my own birthday. I'm not sure why I don't love my own birthday, I would just rather celebrate everyone else's than my own. But I'm learning to embrace change, new ages and new adventures.
In the process of becoming 30, I've been looking back on my 29th year. It was such an amazing year. There was so much joy, so much growth and so much happiness. I traveled, I laughed, I took thousands of pictures (I wish I was kidding) and I learned so much. Before I leap full force into a new decade and a new year, it's time to look back on the good stuff. Ps. Today is my engage-aversary! So here's to that as well!
In no particular order, lets recap.
ONE: I became an Aunt to three delicious nephews. Leo, Otto & Jack are the newest little loves in my life. They're so precious. Also, watching my sister-in-laws become moms (some twice and three times) is one of the greatest things ever. I'm an Aunt x6 and I'm obsessed.
TWO: I watched my best friend marry her love in the most amazing ceremony in Virginia. There is no greater joy than watching your best friend find her forever. I am so lucky I was able to stand next to her and it's a memory I'll cherish well into my 30s.
THREE: Welcoming Lola into our world. It's been a crazy one, but the best one. She is the happiest dog I've ever seen and our little family is complete. Don't worry mom, just complete with animals, there's always room for babies (no, I'm not pregnant). PS, Lola turns ONE tomorrow, so stay tuned for all the pictures.
FOUR: Surprising Adam on his 30th birthday by throwing a huge crawfish boil with all our friends and family. The bad part about this?? Lying to my husband for months. It's so hard! We ate crawfish, drank keg beer, ran races in the yard and enjoyed the company of our friends and family. His birthday is in a little over a month and I really have to start planning.
FIVE: Celebrated two of my best friends bachelorette parties. I had the chance to go to Austin and Calistoga and spent the weekend hanging out with some amazing woman, drank great champs and enjoyed the best company. Their weddings are going to be amazzzzing. They're this summer so stay tuned for the good stuff.
SIX: Grew this space. I hit 1.6K followers on Instagram, was approved by LiketoKnowit, got to work with some awesome companies like Tobi, Nip + Fab, Ellie Kai, Freebird Shoes and met some amazing blogger friends. This space is one of my favorite things in the world. I'm thrilled by it and I hope you are all too.
SEVEN: Crossed the Adele concert off my life bucket list. Danced to Jason Aldean in the summer heat. And slow danced to Chris Stapleton with my hubs. Live music is my love language and luckily Adam loves it too. Here's hoping 30 is full of lots of great concerts.
EIGHT: Tahoe with my family. We were able to get my entire Englert side together and spend 5 amazing days in the sunshine together. We drank rum runners, boated, took group pictures in matching shirts and stayed up for hours laughing. The Englert family reunion is one of my favorite memories for my 29th year and I cannot wait for more reunions.
NINE: The quite moments. Adam and I love to travel, but our most amazing moments are the ones where its just us two. Laying in bed or on the couch, Adam reading the Wall Street Journal and me blogging next to him watching our shows. Those moments are where I really realize how incredibly blessed I am for this life, especially this life with him.
TEN: Ski trips with my in-laws. I've said it before, but I'm so lucky for the amazing relationship I have with my in laws. This last December we spent a wonderful, snowy weekend in Vail. We shopped, they skied and we spent some great QT together.
ELEVEN: I pushed my activity level and really came to appreciate my body. I haven't always been easy on this bod of mine. I tore my ACL, I complain about my weight or my skin but this year I really started learning to love my body. My 29th year was my first year post knee surgery and I finally felt myself coming back. Adam and I ventured out into our new neighborhood and really experienced this amazing city. We went on tons of hikes, I hit 200 pure barre classes and I started running and riding bikes. Here's hoping my 30th year is my healthiest year.
TWELVE: Adam and I surprised my pops for his 65th birthday and spent some really fun days in Arizona. There is no greater time than family time. I'm really lucky to have a great family that I crave time with. See ya in two days Zona!
THIRTEEN: Crafted some delicious recipes for EG. I tried some new dessert recipes, new dinner recipes and even some cereal. This blog is always a work in progress, but it's the best kind of work. I promise that in my 30th year, there will be more recipes. Let's get back to where EG really started.
FOURTEEN: Had the BEST girls weekend in Denver. I love this city and I love showing it off to my friends and family. We fit more into three days than I usually do in a month. We ate the best food, drank the best wine and enjoyed the best kind of company.
FIFTEEN: In this last year, I failed hard and I learned God's plan is not my plan. I learned sometimes the things you thought you wanted to do are not always in the ultimate plan. But, in challenge comes progress and in change comes things greater than expected. So while, my plan might not be where I'm actually heading, I have a great feeling things are going to be so much greater than I could ever imagine.
SIXTEEN: Watched my Denver Broncos beat the Chargers butt with my hubs and my parents at Mile high. I love having my parents in town. It's so easy, it's so fun and it's always such a blessing. We were lucky to have three visits from my parents this year. Every trip is even better than the last. One thing the Englert's know how to do well is eat. I swear our trips are focused around great food and great conversation.
SEVENTEEN: I spent thanksgiving with my Omaha family, spent the AM with my best friend (who also does thanksgiving in omaha), watched Christmas lifetime movies with my MIL and spent so much quality time together. I love getting 5 long days on holiday in Omaha.
EIGHTEEN: Found my newest obsession in face masks and bubble baths. I know Lush has been around forever, but I just recently discovered them. Turning 30 means its time for more self-care. I learning that I'm only my best self, wife and friend when I'm taking care of me. And, I'm learning that a great bubble bath, wine and quite time is perfect for my soul.
NINETEEN: Had my first blog photo shoot, and then had another and another and another. I'm learning to jump out of my comfort zone and I actually LOVE a good photo shoot. Basically it means spending the day with my friends taking pictures in great clothes. This was my first year of doing the "Fashion" blogging thing and it's hard and its a little nerve wrecking, but I love it.
Here's to many more photo shoots in the future.
TWENTY: I found my favorite outfit and I wore it a lot. Here, here & here to be exact. I learned that when stuff goes on sale, you have to buy it and you should probably buy three.
TWENTY-ONE: I 'm currently still working on becoming a morning person, but I am loving my 6am Pure Barre routine and I'm loving the extra bit of energy it brings to my day. I love the little espresso jump shot it gives me to my day.
TWENTY-TWO: I blogged my SIX bachelor/bachelorette seasons and just when I think I don't like it, I love it and am reminded about others who love it. Thanks for supporting me and the love of this blog and all things bachelor!
TWENTY-THREE: I found my new found relationship with God. I've always been very comfortable with my relationship with Him. But I think comfort breads complacency. I purchased the She Reads Truth Romans Study Book and I'm obsessed. It's such an amazing way to spend time in the Word every day. It brings this joy back to my heart I didn't realize I was missing.
TWENTY-FOUR: Adam and I spent our first Christmas in our house together. We decorated our new home, started new traditions and had some amazing dinners with friends. Hosting in our house together is one of my favorite things to do with Adam. Sharing meals with our friends is such a blessing.
TWENTY-FIVE: I made great new friends, created stronger relationships with my current friends and figured out some of my harder friendships. I read this post the other week that said, the best thing a friend can do is show up. It's such an amazing thought. In a world where so much is focused on gifts or showy acts of friendship, the most amazing thing we can do is show up. Be there. Make the phone call, send the text and be there. 29 was learning about those kinds of relationships and how thankful I am for my friends that show up. My 30th year is dedicated to being more present. I want my friends to be able to say I showed up for them.
TWENTY-SIX: Christmas in Arizona, watching my nephew get baptized, coach house with my best friends and lots of family time. Spending time in Arizona is what brings my heart the most joy. hence why I'm heading there for my birthday weekend. But, I love getting to spend the holidays surrounded by my family in the heat of Zona.
TWENTY-SEVEN: I watched my husband succeed beyond measure in his career. It's so wonderful to watch my husband kill the game in his career all while being a supportive present partner in life. He works harder than anyone I know and I love watching his hard work get appreciated. If anyone deserves the credit, its Adam.
TWENTY-EIGHT: I watched the marriage of my youngest brother-in-law and new sis in-law. They are such a wonderful couple to be around and it was an absolute joy to stand next to them on their wedding day. Welcome to the fam Nico, it's the greatest.
TWENTY-NINE: I found a sense of self. I found my place in my job, my blog, my body, my friendships, and my marriage. I think it's true what they say, once you're 30 you stop caring as much about what other people think of me. When people do think of me, I hope its with a kind heart. I'm learning to love myself and be myself. I'm learning that the joy of others is what really makes me happy. That not being in 100% control actually makes life a little more fun, albeit scary, it's interesting. I'm learning the best thing in life is to hold on to each other.
29 was a really great year, but I have a sneaking suspicion that 30 is going to be even better. I cannot wait to see what's in store for me. See ya in 2 days 30, I'm ready for you.
In the process of becoming 30, I've been looking back on my 29th year. It was such an amazing year. There was so much joy, so much growth and so much happiness. I traveled, I laughed, I took thousands of pictures (I wish I was kidding) and I learned so much. Before I leap full force into a new decade and a new year, it's time to look back on the good stuff. Ps. Today is my engage-aversary! So here's to that as well!
In no particular order, lets recap.
ONE: I became an Aunt to three delicious nephews. Leo, Otto & Jack are the newest little loves in my life. They're so precious. Also, watching my sister-in-laws become moms (some twice and three times) is one of the greatest things ever. I'm an Aunt x6 and I'm obsessed.
TWO: I watched my best friend marry her love in the most amazing ceremony in Virginia. There is no greater joy than watching your best friend find her forever. I am so lucky I was able to stand next to her and it's a memory I'll cherish well into my 30s.
THREE: Welcoming Lola into our world. It's been a crazy one, but the best one. She is the happiest dog I've ever seen and our little family is complete. Don't worry mom, just complete with animals, there's always room for babies (no, I'm not pregnant). PS, Lola turns ONE tomorrow, so stay tuned for all the pictures.
FOUR: Surprising Adam on his 30th birthday by throwing a huge crawfish boil with all our friends and family. The bad part about this?? Lying to my husband for months. It's so hard! We ate crawfish, drank keg beer, ran races in the yard and enjoyed the company of our friends and family. His birthday is in a little over a month and I really have to start planning.
FIVE: Celebrated two of my best friends bachelorette parties. I had the chance to go to Austin and Calistoga and spent the weekend hanging out with some amazing woman, drank great champs and enjoyed the best company. Their weddings are going to be amazzzzing. They're this summer so stay tuned for the good stuff.
SIX: Grew this space. I hit 1.6K followers on Instagram, was approved by LiketoKnowit, got to work with some awesome companies like Tobi, Nip + Fab, Ellie Kai, Freebird Shoes and met some amazing blogger friends. This space is one of my favorite things in the world. I'm thrilled by it and I hope you are all too.
SEVEN: Crossed the Adele concert off my life bucket list. Danced to Jason Aldean in the summer heat. And slow danced to Chris Stapleton with my hubs. Live music is my love language and luckily Adam loves it too. Here's hoping 30 is full of lots of great concerts.
EIGHT: Tahoe with my family. We were able to get my entire Englert side together and spend 5 amazing days in the sunshine together. We drank rum runners, boated, took group pictures in matching shirts and stayed up for hours laughing. The Englert family reunion is one of my favorite memories for my 29th year and I cannot wait for more reunions.
NINE: The quite moments. Adam and I love to travel, but our most amazing moments are the ones where its just us two. Laying in bed or on the couch, Adam reading the Wall Street Journal and me blogging next to him watching our shows. Those moments are where I really realize how incredibly blessed I am for this life, especially this life with him.
TEN: Ski trips with my in-laws. I've said it before, but I'm so lucky for the amazing relationship I have with my in laws. This last December we spent a wonderful, snowy weekend in Vail. We shopped, they skied and we spent some great QT together.
ELEVEN: I pushed my activity level and really came to appreciate my body. I haven't always been easy on this bod of mine. I tore my ACL, I complain about my weight or my skin but this year I really started learning to love my body. My 29th year was my first year post knee surgery and I finally felt myself coming back. Adam and I ventured out into our new neighborhood and really experienced this amazing city. We went on tons of hikes, I hit 200 pure barre classes and I started running and riding bikes. Here's hoping my 30th year is my healthiest year.
TWELVE: Adam and I surprised my pops for his 65th birthday and spent some really fun days in Arizona. There is no greater time than family time. I'm really lucky to have a great family that I crave time with. See ya in two days Zona!
THIRTEEN: Crafted some delicious recipes for EG. I tried some new dessert recipes, new dinner recipes and even some cereal. This blog is always a work in progress, but it's the best kind of work. I promise that in my 30th year, there will be more recipes. Let's get back to where EG really started.
FOURTEEN: Had the BEST girls weekend in Denver. I love this city and I love showing it off to my friends and family. We fit more into three days than I usually do in a month. We ate the best food, drank the best wine and enjoyed the best kind of company.
FIFTEEN: In this last year, I failed hard and I learned God's plan is not my plan. I learned sometimes the things you thought you wanted to do are not always in the ultimate plan. But, in challenge comes progress and in change comes things greater than expected. So while, my plan might not be where I'm actually heading, I have a great feeling things are going to be so much greater than I could ever imagine.
SIXTEEN: Watched my Denver Broncos beat the Chargers butt with my hubs and my parents at Mile high. I love having my parents in town. It's so easy, it's so fun and it's always such a blessing. We were lucky to have three visits from my parents this year. Every trip is even better than the last. One thing the Englert's know how to do well is eat. I swear our trips are focused around great food and great conversation.
SEVENTEEN: I spent thanksgiving with my Omaha family, spent the AM with my best friend (who also does thanksgiving in omaha), watched Christmas lifetime movies with my MIL and spent so much quality time together. I love getting 5 long days on holiday in Omaha.
EIGHTEEN: Found my newest obsession in face masks and bubble baths. I know Lush has been around forever, but I just recently discovered them. Turning 30 means its time for more self-care. I learning that I'm only my best self, wife and friend when I'm taking care of me. And, I'm learning that a great bubble bath, wine and quite time is perfect for my soul.
NINETEEN: Had my first blog photo shoot, and then had another and another and another. I'm learning to jump out of my comfort zone and I actually LOVE a good photo shoot. Basically it means spending the day with my friends taking pictures in great clothes. This was my first year of doing the "Fashion" blogging thing and it's hard and its a little nerve wrecking, but I love it.
Here's to many more photo shoots in the future.
TWENTY: I found my favorite outfit and I wore it a lot. Here, here & here to be exact. I learned that when stuff goes on sale, you have to buy it and you should probably buy three.
TWENTY-ONE: I 'm currently still working on becoming a morning person, but I am loving my 6am Pure Barre routine and I'm loving the extra bit of energy it brings to my day. I love the little espresso jump shot it gives me to my day.
TWENTY-TWO: I blogged my SIX bachelor/bachelorette seasons and just when I think I don't like it, I love it and am reminded about others who love it. Thanks for supporting me and the love of this blog and all things bachelor!
TWENTY-THREE: I found my new found relationship with God. I've always been very comfortable with my relationship with Him. But I think comfort breads complacency. I purchased the She Reads Truth Romans Study Book and I'm obsessed. It's such an amazing way to spend time in the Word every day. It brings this joy back to my heart I didn't realize I was missing.
TWENTY-FOUR: Adam and I spent our first Christmas in our house together. We decorated our new home, started new traditions and had some amazing dinners with friends. Hosting in our house together is one of my favorite things to do with Adam. Sharing meals with our friends is such a blessing.
TWENTY-FIVE: I made great new friends, created stronger relationships with my current friends and figured out some of my harder friendships. I read this post the other week that said, the best thing a friend can do is show up. It's such an amazing thought. In a world where so much is focused on gifts or showy acts of friendship, the most amazing thing we can do is show up. Be there. Make the phone call, send the text and be there. 29 was learning about those kinds of relationships and how thankful I am for my friends that show up. My 30th year is dedicated to being more present. I want my friends to be able to say I showed up for them.
TWENTY-SIX: Christmas in Arizona, watching my nephew get baptized, coach house with my best friends and lots of family time. Spending time in Arizona is what brings my heart the most joy. hence why I'm heading there for my birthday weekend. But, I love getting to spend the holidays surrounded by my family in the heat of Zona.
TWENTY-SEVEN: I watched my husband succeed beyond measure in his career. It's so wonderful to watch my husband kill the game in his career all while being a supportive present partner in life. He works harder than anyone I know and I love watching his hard work get appreciated. If anyone deserves the credit, its Adam.
TWENTY-EIGHT: I watched the marriage of my youngest brother-in-law and new sis in-law. They are such a wonderful couple to be around and it was an absolute joy to stand next to them on their wedding day. Welcome to the fam Nico, it's the greatest.
TWENTY-NINE: I found a sense of self. I found my place in my job, my blog, my body, my friendships, and my marriage. I think it's true what they say, once you're 30 you stop caring as much about what other people think of me. When people do think of me, I hope its with a kind heart. I'm learning to love myself and be myself. I'm learning that the joy of others is what really makes me happy. That not being in 100% control actually makes life a little more fun, albeit scary, it's interesting. I'm learning the best thing in life is to hold on to each other.
29 was a really great year, but I have a sneaking suspicion that 30 is going to be even better. I cannot wait to see what's in store for me. See ya in 2 days 30, I'm ready for you.
I'm going to be 30 in 400 days. 30. Thirty. 29 years and 365 days.
Sure on paper 400 days looks like a long time. Most of you are probably thinking, shoot, you're not even 29 yet. But in reality it's less than a year and a half away. Less than a year and a half until I'm not longer "in my twenties."
Needless to say I'm not coping well with 30 lurking just around the corner. I like being in my twenties. For one, I can tell people I'm still in my twenties. I can still lose weight easily. I'm not super wrinkly, things aren't drooping yet and I really am enjoying this 28th year of mine.
When I was younger, let's say 23, I had huge plans for 30 years of age. Married (check!), kids (no check), professional blogger (no check), house (check!), 28 dogs (no check, your welcome Henry) and so many other goals.
Sure, I could probably accomplish some of these things before thirty (sorry mom, probably not kids) but it's just a reminder that I haven't hit the goals I had as a young little tyke.
Bring in my twenties was so damn fantastic. I was in college, I was in law school. I drank. I smoked (only in Italy - you have too), I fell in like, fell out of like. Found my big love. I danced on bars. I went to Vegas a lot, I traveled, I wore really bad outfits and some really good ones. I bought the shoes and the purses and the sunglasses. I got married. I bought a house. I moved 4 times. I got fired. I made friends, lost friends and just moved on. I broke bones and hearts. I lost. I won. I had the best effing time.
But ya know what, I have a year and a half left and this is just a reminder to make the damn most of the best decade of life thus far. While my dancing on bars stage is probably over, whomp whomp, that doesn't mean I'm going to stop drinking wine, start doing yoga (just cant) and acting any more my age than before.
I totally plan on being a bad ass 30-year old woman, going to Pure Barre and still wearing fur (faux) and the good heels. I'm going to shop at Whole Foods, buy the pretty flowers in brown wrapping and pretend to be a grown up. Shoot, 30 sounds awesome.
But, while we're at it - let's turn those lemons into a vodka soda and celebrate while we can. And what makes celebrating even better? Creating a list.
If you know me at all, you know that making lists and crossing things off that list give me as much joy as still being in my 20's does. There's a lot to be done before I hit that next decade - I better get started.
30 before 30 bucket list:
Sure on paper 400 days looks like a long time. Most of you are probably thinking, shoot, you're not even 29 yet. But in reality it's less than a year and a half away. Less than a year and a half until I'm not longer "in my twenties."
Needless to say I'm not coping well with 30 lurking just around the corner. I like being in my twenties. For one, I can tell people I'm still in my twenties. I can still lose weight easily. I'm not super wrinkly, things aren't drooping yet and I really am enjoying this 28th year of mine.
When I was younger, let's say 23, I had huge plans for 30 years of age. Married (check!), kids (no check), professional blogger (no check), house (check!), 28 dogs (no check, your welcome Henry) and so many other goals.
Sure, I could probably accomplish some of these things before thirty (sorry mom, probably not kids) but it's just a reminder that I haven't hit the goals I had as a young little tyke.
But ya know what, I have a year and a half left and this is just a reminder to make the damn most of the best decade of life thus far. While my dancing on bars stage is probably over, whomp whomp, that doesn't mean I'm going to stop drinking wine, start doing yoga (just cant) and acting any more my age than before.
I totally plan on being a bad ass 30-year old woman, going to Pure Barre and still wearing fur (faux) and the good heels. I'm going to shop at Whole Foods, buy the pretty flowers in brown wrapping and pretend to be a grown up. Shoot, 30 sounds awesome.
But, while we're at it - let's turn those lemons into a vodka soda and celebrate while we can. And what makes celebrating even better? Creating a list.
If you know me at all, you know that making lists and crossing things off that list give me as much joy as still being in my 20's does. There's a lot to be done before I hit that next decade - I better get started.
30 before 30 bucket list:
- Write a book or at least get it in the works.
- Have a few drunken nights where I wake up in the morning with a hangover and declare, out-loud to Adam that I better enjoy this now because when I'm 30, the hangovers will be worse.
- Do a photo-shoot for the blog (any takers?).
- Keep pushing this blog to be bigger and better because before I know it I'm going to be writing about getting old products and babies.
- Buy a really trendy outfit from Forever 21 that I'll probably only wear once since I'm pretty sure when I hit the big 3-0, a store with 21 in the title no longer applies to me.
- Get another dog. Sorry Henry. And probably buy the new dog on a whim one Saturday afternoon when Adam and I are bored.
- Learn how to manage my hangry-ness. Sometimes I just forget to eat and then before you know it I'm lashing out at Adam because he made the bed. At least he loves me when I'm hangry.
- Go on a fabulous trip with Adam and not worry that we're spending too much money by staying somewhere fabulous. Because once we hit 30, we're going to have to be responsible and save for our future.
- Buy a new fridge. Don't judge me, it's my list. And just watch out, when I'm 30 I'll be buying things like ovens and buffets for the dining room.
- Learn to like cake. This is a weird one I know, but it makes other peoples birthdays really awkward when I pass on cake and you hear the gasps from people who just cant belive you don't like cake.
- Host a really fabulous dinner party with all of my friends where we pretend like we're adults, but when 11pm hits we start playing card games and get a little too drunk for people in their late-20s and said friends end up crashing in my guest room #adult.
- Get back to skiing comfortably and not fall. Or if I fall, don't break anything.
- Write for the Huffington Post. At least once.
- Learn how to speak a foreign language. When I was in my twenties, I learned a little Italian which isn't super convenient since no-one speaks Italian in the states. Time to learn Spanish. Me llamo Kristen.
- Get blog sponsored for one of those adult sponsorship, like tampons or pads or vacuums. "Ever since I got old, I pee when I laugh." That's how I'll know I made it to adult blogging.
- Stop watching Disney Channel. Guys, I can't help it, I love Girl Meets World. Old school nostalgia is my thing.
- Go to Vegas. I feel like I need one last trip of craziness.
- Watch all those classic movies I never want to watch but know I should. Like Gladiator. Is that a classic? Regardless, I should watch it, that way I'm well rounded when I turn 30.
- Learn to like beets. I feel like adults like beets. They just give me the heebie jeebies. I was in San Diego this weekend and some people ordered a beet salad and all I kept thinking was why would you want a slimy purple veggie instead of this blue cheese wedge?
- Figure out how to wake up in the morning without taking at least 45 minutes of being angry. It's legit a daily struggle and one day when there are babies in the picture, 5 minutes of morning angriness will not be allowed, let alone 45.
- Go to a concert at Red Rocks. I haven't been to one since John Legend. That is just too long ago. Who wants to go to Eric Church this weekend?
- Start wearing lipstick, My mom is always telling me I look too pale or washed out. Sorry, but I LOVE chapstick. It's the bomb.com. (I should probably add stop saying bomb.com to my #adult list).
- Stop being obsessed with how many likes my Instagram pictures get or how many followers I have. I cant help it. PS follow me here ----> Kgrace01 -- come on you knew that was coming.
- Get my house totally furnished. I still have two empty bedrooms, a basement and a dining room. I better add win the lottery to this list too.
- Keep my plants alive. I'm semi-okay at this, but usually my mom or Adams mom comes to visit and fixes my plants. I need to get better at all of that, especially if I'm going to have kids one day.
- Get to 300 Pure Barre classes. I'm chugging along. I have right around 175. So 125 classes in 400 days should be a breeze right? I'll keep you posted on this goal.
- Wedding weight, wedding weight, wedding weight.
- Learn to play golf. Adam is really good at golf, like really, really good. I think it would be so fun to be good at golf. Plus it seems like something an adult should know how to do. That way I can schmooze and golf.
- Go sailing. Like actually sailing. Not just me drinking champs on the boat. I want to learn how to sail and actually do it.
- Have fun. Hey, my twenties were and are the best years of my life so far. I'm pumped to see how 30 tops them.
Whats on your 30 before 30 list? Wanna join me on any of these adventures? I'm totally open to takers! I'll see ya in about 6 months when I update you on my 30 before 30 bucket list progress. Wish me luck!
August, you were okay. September, welcome, I am so excited for you.
August was a long month. Knee surgeries, exams, trips, you name it, August had it. I am so looking forward to September... hopefully life will slow down, cool down and I'll finally be out of my knee brace (victory!)!
Can you believe we only have 4 months left in 2015! It's almost time to start making new years resolutions. There are so many things I want to do and accomplish, but that's a big task. I'm going to start small and focus on September.
Last fall, I made fall bucket list and I loved it. It's a good way to start fresh in the middle of the year. So, in the spirit of it almost being fall, here is my September bucket list!
- Enjoy life's adventures. There are so many amazing things going on and I'm excited to have the time to enjoy every single one.
- Go to happy hours with my friends. It's finally cool enough outside that patio happy hours are back.
- Spend an evening with Helene from Helene in Between and her blog seminar! Helene is doing this amazing webinar to help people grow their blogs. Helene is basically like the queen of blogging and I'm excited to learn from here.
- Take my knee brace off! (t minus 2 weeks!) Trust me, this huge thing is hot and uncomfortable.
- Celebrate lot's of birthdays! There are SO many birthdays in September! My dad, my mother-in-law, Lyndsey, Weekley plus like 35 more people. I could literally celebrate a birthday every day in September.
- Spend a weekend in the mountains. Vail, Breckenridge, you name it, I want to be there.
- Drink fall beers. I am a sucker for Octoberfest beers. Any brand, I will drink it.
- Wear jeans again. (see #4) This knee brace has forced me to wear jean shorts and leggings. I am so ready for skinny jeans again! And boots. And scarves. Bring on the fall clothes.
- Watch football. Lot's of football. I just had my family fantasy football draft and I think this could be my year. It's time for the Paradise Valley Predators to bring home the trophy.
- I'm embarking on a new venture with a close friend of mine. I can't say much today, but I promise I'll let you in on the details soon!
- Multiple weddings & wedding anniversaries. September is obviously the month for love and babies (see #5).
- The thing I'm most excited for is to do nothing. I know this will change, but currently my September planner is pretty empty and I love that. It leaves room for so much possibility.
Happy September everyone, let's make it great.
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