********** FREE JEWELRY GIVEAWAY **********
It’s as easy as 1,2,3!!
To be entered in the FREE Jewelry Giveaway drawing:
1. Check out the website, watch a short video.
2. Click <Survey> at the top and tell us what you think!
(Put me, Carrie Perucca as your Designer)
3. I will contact you when you win!
This giveaway is open to US Residents, 18 years or older, no purchase necessary. This giveaway ends April 30, 2014 and a random winner will be chosen.
Get 2 free passes to see a free screening of the new movie, “Brick Mansions” at Valley Fair Mall.
I had the great opportunity to experience Karve Studio in Lindon. Karve is based on ballet so it incorporates a lot of strength that ballet dancers need. As I am used to having my feet firmly planted on the ground while I do strength workouts, these classes are unique because you spend a lot of time on your toes.
There are a variety of times for classes as well as daycare at selected times so that you can workout in the day without worrying about where to take your children. Classes are also very varied. I had different instructors throughout the week which meant that classes were never the same and I was constantly learning new moves and working on my ability to challenge myself. Although classes are varied, every class works on the same muscles and works on the whole body which gives a lot of room for improvement, even in the short two weeks that I attended Karve classes.
I thought it might be fun to keep a little journal of my experience as I went through classes. Classes are almost all an hour long so I had a lot of time to think during them. But I’ll keep them brief for your reading pleasure.
Day 1: Preface – I started being sick the day before. Exhausted. Mucousy. Sinus pressure. You know the drill. After only 3 hours of sleeping that evening, I woke up in the middle of the night, unable to go back to sleep until 8 am. Unfortunately for me, I had signed up for a class at Karve at 10 am. So I rolled myself out of bed right before the class, changed the kids, and hustled us over to Karve. Apparently there were some issues with the computer and a lack of staff due to Spring Break so it was a bit crazy when I arrived. No one had seemed to notice I was there so I was just about to walk out the door when Jamie, an instructor, got me all signed in. At the same time, the lady who was there for the childcare approached my children (in a non-scary way) and took them off to the play room.
I got my butt kicked that day. I was huffing and puffing, shaking, and all sorts of sore during and after the workout. As I walked up and down the stairs the rest of the day, it was a good reminder as to why I like to stay in shape … so I don’t feel like crying when I do something simple like take the stairs after a hard workout.
Day 2: Still sick, 7:30 am class, but I made it. Somewhat sore but a good stretch at the end made it better. Amber was the instructor and helped me a couple of times make sure that I was doing the right posture. I definitely don’t want to hurt my body again so I appreciate it!
Day 3: The hardest part about classes like these is that it takes the ability to do more than one thing at a time. I may have played tennis for the past 22 years, but that doesn’t mean I’m coordinated. Hitting a small ball with a racquet is easy compared to making sure that I’m on my toes, leaning forward, knees bent, arms behind me, palms faced towards each other, and lifting them up without bending my elbows. If I get corrected at Karve, it’s because I lack coordination. The workout, however, felt great but as I’m still sick, I think a long bath and a movie are in order. Lindsey was great and I must be getting the hang of it because she didn’t have to correct almost all of my positions like Jamie needed to the first day!
Day 4: Brooke was the instructor today and I could tell she was ready to really work us today. However, I didn’t sleep well and felt the most sick today than I have all week so after scaring her from sneaking up on her (unintentionally), I left and went back to bed at home. And then two minutes later I was back up to take care of the kids. What was it like to be sick without kids? I don’t even remember!
Day 5: Today was awesome. Having to go up on “stiletto” heels was just less than torture but it felt good. I got home and had my husband take a picture of me and I look awesome compared to a week ago. I no longer look 5 months pregnant and my muffin top is being defined instead of enlarged. My body just looks tighter compared to last week and my appetite is good. I’m not as inclined to eat treats and complex carbohydrates and instead crave fruits and vegetables. Karve hasn’t changed my appetite but it’s helping me take care of my body and my body is thanking me.
Day 6: My coordination skills are definitely lacking. There was a huge class today and as I stood in the back and watched all the other ladies easily do each move, it was slightly funny how awkward I am. Fortunately, everyone works at their own pace so I am able to take it a bit slower and still get a great workout. This is by far the best way to start my Saturday!
Day 7: As yesterday was Sunday and there was no class, my body feels well rested and was ready to get working with Jamie as the instructor again. She is great at making sure that everyone is working but making sure that they’re comfortable at the same time. I can tell my body is changing already and I feel great! This workout is different than anything else I’m used to but it’s toning my body and helping get rid of some of that visceral fat … love it!
Day 8: Amber was the instructor again this morning and I am shocked that this is my 8th day and there are still new positions and exercises that I haven’t done yet. I enjoy the diversity yet the workout level is always the same because there are always the starting positions and then you can continue to challenge yourself as the instructor moves through them. However, if you aren’t ready for them, you can always go back to the starting position. So if I want to work at the beginner level for days, I can. If I want to do all of the challenges each day and get one of the toughest workouts, I can choose to do that as well.
Day 9: Rachelle taught this morning and as always, my body feels fantastic. My kids have been doing the childcare every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and it’s so nice to be able to workout at 10 am without worrying about finding a sitter or hoping my husband can watch the kids. I know where they are, I can occasionally hear them being loud, and I know they’re having fun. My daughter didn’t want to leave today but I guess my son had enough friends and was ready to get going.
Day 10: Brooke taught today and it was another tough day for me. I haven’t slept very much or very well because of Utah Valley Mom’s upcoming event but even though I wanted to be in bed, I’m glad I made it through the session. I know I already mentioned it, but I love that everyday is different. My body feels so good and is becoming so toned!
Day 11: My last day here at Karve for UVM and Jessica was the instructor again. I guess we were all pretty quiet and didn’t show emotions because she threatened to work us harder but we all let her know that no, we were definitely not needing any more. We were shaking and fatiguing our muscles. At times though, she would keep us going on a set of muscles and a couple of us glared at her. But she let us know that she welcomed the glares because that meant she was doing her job. Thank goodness for her doing her job. My body feels awesome but I was pretty exhausted after today’s workout.
Utah Valley Moms was provided classes to Karve Studio in Lindon, however, all opinions are our own.
UVM was given “Inspired Guns” for a review post, however, all opinions are our own.
“INSPIRED GUNS” is a light hearted comedy of mistaken identity involving LDS missionaries, the mafia and the FBI. It is a look at the importance of being humble and having faith in others when things get tough.
Elder Fisher and his companion stumble upon two idiotic brothers in the mafia (Roger and Larry) waiting for messengers from “the Boss” to give them instructions on the next hit.
Believing the missionaries are the Boss’s messengers Roger and Larry begin taking the discussions trying to find the hidden message in the Book of Mormon. Meanwhile, the FBI is getting close to bringing down this mafia family and is hot on their heels for hard evidence against them.
The mafia family realizes that Roger and Larry are meeting with the Elders and mistaking the Elders for FBI agents, they decide to eliminate the missionaries and the brothers.
Right before the mafia hitman executes Elder Fisher, someone unexpected steps in and single handedly takes out the hitman and his henchmen. The FBI secures the scene and Elder Fisher is saved.
“INSPIRED GUNS” is a comedy that explores what would happen if missionaries started teaching the Gospel to members of the mafia and how that might look to an unknowing FBI. It is a comic quest to show how one man by being humble enough to accept help from unlikely sources will be rewarded in the end.
Giveaway: Want to win an “Inspired Guns” DVD of your own? Enter in the form below.
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Entrants must be 18 years or older and US Residents. No purchase necessary. This giveaway will end on April 29, 2014 at 11:59 pm MDT. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google, and Pinterest do not endorse or sponsor this giveaway.
Listed below are the Summer Movie Programs for Utah. If you know of more, please share with us!
The prices listed are per person. Prices and movies are subject to change. Please make sure you find your local theater to find the times of the movies and to find out which movies will be showing.
Summer is just around the corner and it’s time for all of the great Summer Reading Programs!
Visit Enjoy Utah!’s list of Summer Reading Programs that are available in Utah to find the right ones for your family!
Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse is only $5 for 10 movies per person when you pay in advance! Please check their website to find all participating Cinemark theaters.
Join us at the Water Gardens theater in Spanish Fork this summer for $1 movies! Movies will play twice a day on their specific days at 11 am and 1 pm. Visit their website for more information about the Water Gardens.
Thank you, Angela S. for this information!
This post contains referral links which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and make a purchase.
As a lover of photography, I’m always in search of great businesses helping photographers. I’m not an internet genius so as much as my husband can set me up with all sorts of great things, I’m someone who needs a little help. And not just because I don’t know things like my husband, but also because I have other things to do in life and love when great companies are willing to help me out and make my life a little bit easier.
SmugMug makes marketing a professional photography business as simple as can be. They take the guess work out of website analytics, custom packages, coupon programs and more. In addition to their marketing capabilities, SmugMug is a secure online photo database, portfolio, and merchandise point of sale for professional photographers all in one location. Right now through April 30, 2014 they are offering a special deal — photographers can save 15% at SmugMug when they sign up to get a professional subscription. Just click on the savings link above and go start your 14 day free trial at SmugMug. After the trial expires, you will be asked to subscribe and the 15% off will automatically be deducted from your fees. It is just that easy.
It’s time to get your passes for the kids summer movies at your local Megaplex! Passes are just $10 per person making it only $1 per movie! Movies will vary by location so make sure to find your local Megaplex and see what their summer line up is. You can even order online on their website or visit your local Megaplex.
Join us at the SCERA Center for the Arts Summer Series and the Kids’ Matinee Program!
CINEMA SERIES 1
XanGo Grand Theatre
June 2-5: FREE BIRDS (PG)
June 9-12: CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS 2 (G)
June 16-19: DESPICABLE ME 2 (PG)
June 23-26: OZ THE GREAT & POWERFUL (PG)
June 30-July 3: THE SMURFS 2 (PG)
July 7-10: THE CHRISTMAS CANDLE (PG)
July 14-17: THE CROODS (PG)
July 21-24: WALKING WITH DINOSAURS (PG)
July 28-31: EPIC (PG)
August 4-7: TURBO (PG)
August 11-14: THE NUT JOB (PG)
CINEMA SERIES 2
SCERA Showhouse II
Monday-Thursday @ 10:00am
June 2-5: PERCY JACKSON: SEA OF MONSTERS (PG)
June 9-12: THE SECRET LIFE OF WALTER MITTY (PG)
June 16-19: TEEN BEACH MOVIE (PG)
June 23-26: SAVING MR. BANKS (PG-13)
June 30-July 3: CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG (G)
July 7-10: GRACE UNPLUGGED (PG)
July 14-17: MAGIC IN THE WATER (PG)
July 21-24: FLY AWAY HOME (PG)
July 28-31: THE KARATE KID (184 – PG)
August 4-7: ENDER’S GAME (PG-13)
August 11-14: EPHRAIM’S RESCUE (PG)
To purchase tickets, you may visit the Scera at 745 South State, Orem, call them at (801) 225-ARTS or buy tickets online.
The Kids Bowl Free program starts May 1, 2014 and you can still sign up your children to bowl free! There are also deeply discounted prices for parents and to add on other family members. Sign up any children 15 years old and younger for the Kids Bowl Free program!
Giveaway: When you sign up, put the email [email protected] in as the referrer and you’ll be entered to win a Target gift card. Not only that, but you’ll also be entered to win some great prizes like a trip to Disney World, iPads, and more! Leave a comment here that you listed [email protected] as the referrer or fill out our contact us form.
This giveaway will end June 24, 2014 at 11:59 pm EST. Winner will be chosen at random and will be notified by email. This giveaway is open to US Residents 18 years and older. No purchase necessary. This giveaway is sponsored by Utah Valley Moms.
Join the Relik Salon & Spa in American Fork this Saturday, April 26 for a cut-a-thon from 5-9 pm. Get a haircut and instead of paying for the cut, donate to Bradley Bangerter who has Alport Syndrome.
There is nothing that my family swoons over more than baby animals and it’s that time of year again for all the little babes! The Utah State University Extension’s Baby Animal Days at Wetland Discovery Point Building at 676 S 50 W in Kaysville, Utah will be holding their annual Baby Animal Days on May 9-10.
These two days will be fun-filled with lots of learning and will be a great activity to take your children to:
Activities Schedule of Events:
Friday
3:00 – Sheep shearing
4:00 – Baby Reptiles
5:00 – Talented Talons
6:00 – Sheep
7:00 – Baby Reptiles
Saturday
11:00 – Sheep shearing
12:00 – Baby Reptiles
1:00 – Talented Talons
2:00 – Sheep
3:00 – Baby Reptiles
4:00 – Talented Talons
*PLEASE NOTE: Additional fees apply for some activities.
Discount: Use the code BLOG5 to get $5 off one family pass.
Giveaway: The Utah State University Extension is giving away one free family pass to one lucky winner to Baby Animal Days. To enter to win, leave a comment on this post. For one more entry, leave a comment on our giveaway post on our Facebook post about Baby Animal Days.
This giveaway is sponsored by Utah State Extension. UVM received a family pass in exchange for this post, however, all opinions are our own. Facebook does not sponsor or endorse this giveaway. Entrants must be 18 years or older. No purchase necessary. This giveaway ends April 25, 2014 at 11:59 MDT.
Is 2014 the year you find your first home? Are you wondering where to start and what you need to know? Or have you already found the right home and you’re trying to decide whether to take the next step? As my husband and I worried about these same questions, we contacted a local lender, Axiom Financial, to gather a few tips for prospective homeowners. Here’s what they had to share:
Before You Start
Consider your costs
Before you start looking, there are a few things every homeowner should consider. First of all, is it even worth it for you to move? You may want to own a home and you may think you can handle it, but here are some rules of thumb to consider about your finances. Generally, if it costs 35% less for you to rent each month than it would for you to own a home, you’re probably better off renting.
For instance, say you pay $800 a month in rent (including utilities). You don’t want your total monthly payment for your home to be more than $1,100 a month (that’s about 35% more than $800), including mortgage, property taxes, and any homeowner’s fees. Your monthly payment should also be no more than 36% of your gross monthly income. So if that $1,100 is more than 36% of what you make in a month, don’t do it. Keep renting and saving until you are earning more.
If you’ve considered all this and owning is still the right decision for you, there are a few other tips you should know. To end up with a house you can afford, you shouldn’t look at anything that is more than two and a half times your annual gross income. That means if you make $50,000 a year, you shouldn’t look for a home that is more expensive than $125,000.
Check your credit
Before you start looking, check out your credit score. If there are any mistakes in your credit history, start fixing them right away. It could take a couple months to get everything straightened out, but you’ll want to have that figured out before you start looking for a home. Also, if your score is below 640, you’ll likely have a hard time finding a lender. Before you can start buying, you’ll need to build your credit. On the other hand, a score from 700-750 will get you good to great deals.
Get pre-approved
You should also strongly consider being pre-approved for a loan. A pre-approval is done by the financial institution you’re hoping to get the loan from. They’ll take a look at your credit score and debt and give you an accurate picture of the size of the loan you’ll be approved for. This will help you narrow down what you can afford in the buying process. Many realtors will also give preference to pre-approved buyers.
You’ll also need to have your down payment available in cash before you can hope to buy. Lenders like to see 20% of the home’s price as a down payment. If you don’t have that much, you may be able to qualify for a low-interest loan, but you’ll likely have to pay for private mortgage insurance, to protect the lending institution. PMI usually adds about 5% of the total loan amount to your payments every year. That means if the house you’re looking to buy is $125,000, you’ll be paying an additional $625 a year. That cost quickly adds up.
Don’t forget the closing costs
Closing costs are fees charged by your lender and other third parties at the end of the buying process. They may include appraisal fees, loan fees, attorney’s fees, and inspection fees. Most owners pay between 2-5% of the cost of their home in closing costs. If your future home is $125,000, your closing costs could be anywhere from $2,500-$6,250. Lenders are required by law to give you an estimate of what closing costs should be within three days of applying for the loan, but the final costs can still vary quite a bit.
Closing costs are one of the reasons you should plan on staying put in your home for the next 3-5 years. If you sell any sooner than that, you’ll likely be losing money you spent in closing costs, even if the housing market is rising.
These tips should help you get started on the home buying process. If you have more questions, contact a professional lender or realtor. He or she should be able to tell you more about the buying process. Homeowning can be an exciting and emotionally satisfying step in your life, especially if you’re willing to take your time and do your research. Happy hunting!
Guest post by Bryce Thomas
Join the South Utah Valley Animal Shelter for their 2nd Annual “Celebrate Your Pet Event!”
*Entertainment for the whole family *Games *Prizes *Food *Animal Shows *Vaccines *Reptile Rescue *Pet Photography *Birds of Prey *Latest on Animal G.P.S *Dog Wash *Herding Dog Show *South Utah Valley Retrievers *Sheriffs K-9 Unit *Kids 4 Pets *Dazzle Dogs *Wild Wonders *Costco *Wasatch Avian Education Society & More!
