All 4 Speakers

Yes, I did.

2011-10-11T01:56:00.001-06:00

- Yes I did go almost 6 months without blogging.

- Yes I did start a post numerous times only to delete it in that time.

- Yes I did check all my favorite fellow bloggers while on sabbatical.

- Yes I did write this at 2:00am.

- Yes I did just buy an app to be able to post from my iPad more easily.

Maybe, you will see more of me around here. :)

Terésa

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Baby news...

2011-04-22T09:10:00.002-06:00

I wish this was a happy update. Something light hearted and jovial. I guess when you spread your happy news you have to respread the unhappy news.

We lost our little one yesterday. I am absolutly heartbroken, but I guess it just wasn't meant to be...

xoxoxo

Now that you know...

2011-04-14T08:00:00.002-06:00

So, I'm the type that that has baby names planned YEARS before the wee one itself is even a twinkle in my eye. I had Belle's name planned probably 3 years (right Sammi?) before I even met J-rod.

If Belle was a boy, we were going to name him Roman Wayne. And well, since we still looooove that name, if we are having a wee boy this time that's what we will name him!

As for a girl, that's a whole bag (can?) of worms...

I've talked before about J-rod's mom Salynn passing away only two short months after Belle was born. I readily decided that if we had another girl, we would honor his mom by naming our next daughters middle name after her. Therein, lies the challenge of finding a fist name to fit the middle!

I have always loved the name Ava. Not Eva, but Ava. We actually threw it around a little when I was pregnant with Belle, but we loved Isabelle more and went with it. So naturally one might think I would chose it for our next girl. Here's the problem...

See, I like to look at all the angles when it comes to naming a baby like kids teasing, nicknames, and initials. And what would our little Ava Salynn Speaker's initials be? You guessed it A.S.S. So 'Ava' is out. I really like Sophia with Sophie for her nickname, but C.J. and J-rod vetoed that one.

Then, a few months ago I was watching a movie about Coco Chanel. Yep, I fell in love with the name Coco. Now, this was back when I had NO idea I would ever get pregnant again. In fact, thinking of names made me think I was jinxing myself. Kinda how the people who have a plan with what they would do with the lottery money, never win the lottery. But, sometimes I can't help myself. (and I still have a plan if we were to win the lottery, that we never play... A girl can dream right??)

So the search began for a name to go with the nickname Coco and the middle name Salynn. It didn't take me long, and I found two. Cosette (think Les Miserables) or Colette (like Nicolette without the Ni) Notice the French theme? Belle, Coco, Cosette, Colette... Thank you Mr. Murphy for instilling my incessant love of all things French... Except French politics. Those I can live without, but I digress.

So after presenting J-rod with the options, let's be honest he didn't really have MUCH to choose from, we decided to go with Colette.

So in a few Weeks we will find out if we will welcoming Roman Wayne, or Colette Salynn.

Once we decided it was safe enough (I was far enough along) we started to call and tell family. J-rod called his grandma, who he is closest to in his family since his moms passing, and told her our name choices. "You know," she said, "kids used to call me Coco when I was young because of the color of my hair."

I just knew Coco was a family name!!

xoxoxo

Hello.... Is this thing on??

2011-04-13T08:00:00.017-06:00

Well, I have about 7.6 minutes left before this Caillou episode is over, and Belle will demanding my attention elsewhere. So what does a typical mom do when she has 7 er 6.4 minutes to herself? Well, blog of course. Or if she is like me of late, catch up on some of my fave blogs.

The last few months have been consuming to say the least. Jarrod was in a car accident back in Oct. Then came the new year. And then I became sick. And sicker. (Yes, that is a sentence.)

Finally, after much persuasion from my family I decided to go see the doctor. But before I went, I did a little of my on self diagnosing. (I think I should be the next 'House' a.k.a. a diagnostician... but that is another post.) So I got on web MD and started entering in my symptoms...

Extreme fatigue.

Frequent urination.

Severe Nausea.

And pain in the back were the kidneys are located.

'Kidney infection' pops up first. Ahha!! I was right!

But I cant go on without giving a little back story...

4 years ago, Jarrod and I decided to go off birth control. I had the deep maternal desire to have another baby. I want to have another one close to Belle so that she would have a playmate and partner in crime.

The 'trying' phase began. Months of months of hope came crashing down in heartbreak. Months of false alarms, missed and late periods, hopes and prayers, started to weigh on me emotionally. And then months turned into years.

I would break down in tears nearly every time I heard of someone else becoming pregnant. I questioned so much. I wondered if there was something wrong with me, physically, spiritually. Those were dark days, with not much rationally thinking.

Heartbreak turned into bitterness. Bitterness into frustration. Frustration into resolve. And after 4 years resolve was well on its way to content.

I started thinking about the possibilities of the slight freedom that I would have once Belle started school. I could work again. Maybe go back to school. Because life goes on, right? I had my boy and girl after all. Some haven't even been blessed with as much.

Now enter present day... er to the Dr. appointment.

I go in still incredibly sick, on the verge of having to grab a toilet, and my back hurting so bad I cant stand. I tell him all the symptoms... "oh, and my periods late." He perked up then, and I saw the look on his face. I recognized it similar to the hope and curiosity that I used to feel float across my face years before I became quite a bit jaded. Boy is he barking up the wrong tree I thought.

He continued the exam with almost a smug indifference. I mean how could a 'housewife' diagnose herself with something as rare as a kidney infection. No, pregnancy (to him) is much more probable. But, I! I was not so easily fooled. In fact gone were the days that I even kept track of my cycle. And I couldn't even recall the first day of my last very fickle cycle started! And he left the room to check on the results of BOTH tests.

He returned with visible signs of surprise. "You do, indeed have a kidney infection." Well, that explains the surprise~ I thought. He didn't seem to believe me so he must be surprised I knew- "AND your pregnant."

He could have slapped me and not caught me more off guard.

Apparently the symptoms of the kidney infection had masked the signs of the early stage of pregnancy.

We are so excited and feel so blessed, but if I'm being completely honest, I'm still trying to wrap my mind around this. I am starting into my second trimester now, and the 'Night (not morning) Sickness' doesn't rear its ugly head quite so much, and I'm starting to feel the little one move.

And around Oct. 27th I'm going to be a mommy of 3.

Lets be honest...

2010-10-13T08:00:00.029-06:00

It's WEDNESDAY! So that means my guest blogger canwinn is back. Don't forget to go read my post over on her blog. While you are there poke around at her stuff I'm sure you will like what you ~~see~~ read. But before you go, and after you read what she has here, make sure and be good little followers, show her some love and comment!!!

(yep, I'm still rockin the right side!!)

xoxox

Have you ever noticed how people in the blog-o-sphere tend to put their best foot forward.

I doubt it's intentional, but the reality is that we portray our perfection for the world at large.

So lets be honest.

My children are rarely dressed for success. My house is hardly pristine.

I am not perfect.

Are you?

My typical hairstyle is a ponytail.

My make-up rarely goes beyond eyeliner.

My scale is clearly about 30 pounds off and my clothes have definitely shrunk in the washer.

And that's just the tip of the iceberg!

I could go on and on about my family relationships, my house, my bills, my self-perception, or a myriad of other areas within my life... none of which is solidly founded in bliss.

Blogging is a fun way to show off my best person, but do you know what? It takes me about 30 minutes to write a blog post. 30 minutes that define the very essence of who I am.

Wow, I sure wish that were true. If my house looked like my blog does I'd be living my dream. If my kids only ever behaved badly enough to joke about I'd have the easiest job on earth. If my life were all smiling faces and bright pictures things would be fantastic!

So let's be honest. With ourselves and with those around us. Don't hide it, flaunt it.... even just a little.

Blllllaaaaahhhhhhhhh sick day

2010-10-12T14:08:00.002-06:00

I hate being sick.

HATE

HATE!!!!

O.k. you get the point.

Well, at least I have picnik to edit pics while I sit in bed, And such a cutie to make cute pics.

Like the whole 'on the right' side??

Eh????????

O.k. I'm going to bed now.

Is there a Docter in house?

2010-10-11T08:41:00.002-06:00

Dr. Belle reporting to duty!

We’ve been stuck with the flu bug in our house. But alas only 50% have been stricken. C.J. had a stomach flu (mostly indigestion -no vomiting thank goodness- with some body aches), I have a head cold/ stomach flu. Belle and J-rod are still watching their backs.

I have been feeling quite sick all weekend, and then this came creeping onto my bed Sunday morning.

"Oh, quick Dr. help C.J. he’s so sick, he needs a doctor!!" I exclaimed in an attempt to entertain my brood if only for a moment.

Excitement sparkles in her eyes, as she begins her examination on her patient/brother. “Take a breath”, she instructs as she puts her plastic stethoscope on his stomach.

He obeys

“Let it out,” she instructs with the confidence of experience.

Again he obliges.

“Take a breath.” She moves her toy to his chest. “Let it out.”

“Take a breath.” This time she ‘listens’ to his shoulder. “… and out.” She then examines the back of the shoulder, and then with a stern look she turns to me ready to give her diagnoses.

“I think he is going to throw up.”

Later that same day: "Maybe we should take you to the dr. tomorrow, and he can give you a shot. And I can play with the toys! Is that a good idea?!"

Always watchin' out for momma. 

Mirror Mirror on the wall

2010-10-06T08:23:00.003-06:00

For the next 4 weeks I'll be blog swapping with canwinn so on Wednesdays you can read me at her blog. Show her some love and leave a comment. Oh, and go read my post over there!

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.

It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
-Invictus by William Ernest Henley

I am the captain of my soul--Within my life I have truly struggled to grasp the concept that I am in control of my own being. It is not so much an inability to make my own decisions, but rather the struggle to control the emotional state within myself. Yet is that not where our true selves lie--within?

As a child, my feelings of self-worth were frequently thwarted by my own personal loathing. In the darkest days of my teen years I couldn't bear to look at myself in the mirror. I hated how I looked and could not dispel the grief that welled up inside of me when I saw my own reflection.

Years of this self-destruction led to some very bad choices on my part that threatened to consume me unless I changed. Unless I came to terms with the simplest truth in existence.

The soul within me is who I am, not the reflection in the mirror.

The freedom that comes with such knowledge is powerful and all encompassing. No longer do the features of my face dictate who I am. No longer do the toils of life, etched upon my skin, have control over my being. I am in control, not my reflection.

Does that mean that I am constantly empowered? Absolutely not. I live in a society so entrenched in physical beauty that it would be impossible to not worry about the way I looked. Sometimes I hate the gray hairs beginning to crop up all over and the extra pudge around my middle and yet I try to remember that who I am is inside of me. If I am not comfortable with the inner-self there will be no peace in my life--because beauty fades, age takes hold and soon all that is left is the person within.

“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”
Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

The old saying 'beauty is only skin deep' begins to have new meaning when I look at it through this new perspective. Over the years my mind has not changed I still feel the lively happiness of seventeen years old, but lack the face of one so young.

My grandmother once told me that she was shocked every time she looked in the mirror. 'Who is this woman with the saggy skin and mangled hands? Surely not me.'

The soul does not age with the body. This I must remember, because if I am to become the true captain of my soul I must be in command of my vessel and willing to accept it's needs and flaws.

Perhaps when life has faded from my eyes my soul will be revealed as the true form of who I am, and if that is so then it is important I make my soul into what I want to be.

Me... analyzed

2010-10-01T11:00:00.000-06:00

A friend of mine did this and I thought it was interesting. I'm not so sure some of them are right-on, but some was! It's a little long, but enjoy getting a little in site on me!

xoxoxo

This personality profile is based on the writing of Terésa Speaker created at the website: Handwriting Wizard.com - Handwriting University's Official automated personality report creator based on standardized basic personality traits as taught through Handwriting University's Certification Level Program.
Terésa is moderately outgoing. Her emotions are stirred by sympathy and heart rendering stories. In fact, she can be kind, friendly, affectionate and considerate of others. She has the ability to put herself into the other person's shoes.
Terésa will be somewhat moody, with highs and lows. Sometimes she will be happy, the next day she might be sad. She has the unique ability to get along equally well with what psychology calls introverts and extroverts. This is because she is in between. Psychology calls Terésa an ambivert. She understands the needs of both types. Although they get along, she will not tolerate anyone that is too "far out." She doesn't sway too far one way or the other.
When convincing her to buy a product or an idea, a heart rendering story could mean a great deal to her. She puts herself in the same situation as the person in the story, yet she will not buy anything that seems overly impractical or illogical. Terésa is an expressive person. She outwardly shows her emotions. She may even show traces of tears when hearing a sad story.
Terésa is a "middle-of-the-roader," politically as well as logically. She weighs both sides of an issue, sits on the fence, and then will decide when she finally has to. She basically doesn't relate to any far out ideas and usually won't go to the extreme on any issue.
People that write their letters in an average height and average size are moderate in their ability to interact socially. According to the data input, Terésa doesn't write too large or too small, indicating a balanced ability to be social and interact with others.
Terésa will demand respect and will expect others to treat her with honor and dignity. Terésa believes in her ideas and will expect other people to also respect them. She has a lot of pride.
Terésa will be candid and direct when expressing her opinion. She will tell them what she thinks if they ask for it, whether they like it or not. So, if they don't really want her opinion, don't ask for it!
According to the inputted data, Terésa has a stinger shape inside the oval of her a, d, or c. This might be hard to visualize, but if this little hooklike shape is present, then Terésa has an unresolved "issue" with strong members of the opposite gender. An occasional appearance of this stroke could indicate a simple "loves a mental challenge" which can manifest in playful linguistic conversations and being attracted to a lover who isn't always available. However, if the stroke is severe, this means the individual has unresolved anger at the oppostive gender - which usually started with the person's childhood relationship with the opposite gender parent (Mom or Dad). If the writer is a woman she will be attracted to strong challenging men. If the writer is a man, he will find the woman who is "hard to get" the most attractive. In a nutshell, people with stingers in their writing tend to have challenges in their romantic relationships.
For more information about this "stinger" trait, visit this webpage. Remember, it is only negative if the traits occurs often and is quite pronounced. An occasional stinger can be no problem.
Diplomacy is one of Terésa's best attributes. She has the ability to say what others want to hear. She can have tact with others. She has the ability to state things in such a way as to not offend someone else. Terésa can disagree without being disagreeable.
In reference to Terésa's mental abilities, she has a very investigating and creating mind. She investigates projects rapidly because she is curious about many things. She gets involved in many projects that seem good at the beginning, but she soon must slow down and look at all the angles. She probably gets too many things going at once. When Terésa slows down, then she becomes more creative than before. Since it takes time to be creative, she must slow down to do it. She then decides what projects she has time to finish. Thus she finishes at a slower pace than when she started the project.
She has the best of two kinds of minds. One is the quick investigating mind. The other is the creative mind. Her mind thinks quick and rapidly in the investigative mode. She can learn quicker, investigate more, and think faster. Terésa can then switch into her low gear. When she is in the slower mode, she can be creative, remember longer and stack facts in a logical manner. She is more logical this way and can climb mental mountains with a much better grip.
Terésa is a practical person whose goals are planned, practical, and down to earth. This is typical of people with normal healthy self-esteem. She needs to visualize the end of a project before she starts. she finds joy in anticipation and planning. Notice that I said she plans everything she is going to do, that doesn't necessarily mean things go as planned. Terésa basically feels good about herself. She has a positive self-esteem which contributes to her success. She feels she has the ability to achieve anything she sets her mind to. However, she sets her goals using practicality-- not too "out of reach". She has enough self-confidence to leave a bad situation, yet, she will not take great risks, as they relate to her goals. A good esteem is one key to a happy life. Although there is room for improvement in the confidence category, her self-perception is better than average.
Terésa is sarcastic. This is a defense mechanism designed to protect her ego when she feels hurt. She pokes people harder than she gets poked. These sarcastic remarks can be very funny. They can also be harsh, bitter, and caustic at the same time.
Terésa has a healthy imagination and displays a fair amount of trust. She lets new people into her circle of friends. She uses her imagination to understand new ideas, things, and people.

So.... what do you think? Was it right??

4 years /4 stories: Story #4

2010-09-30T11:21:00.003-06:00

A letter to Belle:

Dear Mia Bella,

I think of you, years down the road reading this. How much of this time in your life do you remember? What can I tell you about the 4 year old in front of me?

When I laid eyes on you for the first time, the words strait out of my mouth were, “Wow! That’s a Jarrod baby!” And he has insisted I dress you in pink ever since. I think he is worried you will look too much like him.

Aside from you looking just like your daddy, you have been our girly-girl from day one. I will admit the first year of your life that has a lot to do with me, but since then your desire for femininity has been quite apparent. You are constantly wanting to wear dresses. I’ve tried dressing you in skirts for the more affordable option. You humor me with this occasionally, but as soon as my back is turned you strip to your underclothes, and are handing me a new frock to adorn you. Even now you sit watching one of your favorite shows with your princess shoes on, holding your princess purse, and wearing the dress you chose for this morning (not your first choice, but that was a ‘church dress’ I wouldn’t let you wear).

I’m astonished and in a bit of wonderment at how you have grown. I bought you cloths earlier in the year, curtain that you would be able to wear them for the season at lest, only to discover you have out grown them a month later. You are fast on the heels of your cousin Eliza who is 4 years older than you. Soon, I don’t think her hand-me-downs will fit anymore. But I hope your height doesn’t bother you. Your dad smiles at you proudly, “She'll be my little volley-ball player”. While I boast you will be a graceful ballerina.

You’ve been spinning in pirouettes shortly after you started walking, and you wiggle those hips as good as any Latina. So, it seemed preordained that we would put you in ballet this year. And with three classes under your belt, you are flying on cloud nine.

You sit and talk on your ‘phone’ exuding girlishness as you implore: “Oh, Prince Eric, Stop *giggle*… I can‘t marry you, I‘m in Paris.” That’s my girl. Tell him to wait. You go to Paris.

You are without a doubt, the second mommy in our home. And you aren’t satisfied unless you know every one is happy, and well. You fuss over all of us until we are taken care of to your satisfaction. But in true mommy form, you aren’t afraid to ‘discipline’ us, or tell us curtain behavior is ‘thumbs down’. Even occasionally trying to send your brother to his room.

You have a magnificent flair for the dramatic. You love to dance and twirl with your brother, pretending he is your prince charming, and he adores you enough to humor you. You are constantly acting out your favorite shows, or mimicking your princess tales. Sometimes I’m lucky enough to catch these moments on camera… even if you aren’t fully clothed.

I’m so grateful such a sweet spirit has blessed our family. So full of life, and willingness to love. Your desire to please is fervent. Your beautiful laugh is contagious. Your naiveté is inspiring. These last 4 years have been... awe-inspiring.

Love forever and always,

Momma

8 questions x2: part 2

2010-09-28T11:58:00.004-06:00

Here is the second part to the questions I was tagged. Evelyn tagged me on her blog here.

1. Did you swear you'd never do something when you became a parent and now find yourself doing? Fess up.

This is a tough one... I can’t remember stuff from last week, let alone disgruntled thoughts from childhood. I think I remember thinking ‘If my kids want more than one glass of milk at dinner I will let them’ and I do. Oh! I thought of one! My mom used to put us all to bed then revel in her alone time as she popped some popcorn and watched a movie. If I happened to wake up and wanted to share in her repose, she would hastily send me back to bed pledging that if I ate before bed I would have nightmares. I may or may not do that... ;)

2. If you could only eat three foods for the rest of your life, what would they be?

Chocolate. Milk. Vinegar and oil salad.

3. Retell your worst dating experience.

I was dating a guy in high school. We were going on a group date during summer break. A sort of last hurrah before the school year started. He (the then boyfriend, we’ll call him D- for dufus) So D was still friends with an ex-girlfriend of his. He still had feelings for her and felt badly for the way they broke up (I didn‘t know any of this ‘till later). D insisted she double with one of my guy friends on our group date. Lets just say it didn’t end well-- the date or the relationship with D.

4. What was the most recent thing that made you cry?

Having to think of my answer for question #3!! Kidding... probably my blog post about J-rods mom passing.It's still something that is very hard for everyone in our family to talk about, and my heart aches knowing that Belle wont have a chance to get to know her... until much later.

5. Favorite childhood memory. Go!

It’s probably one of my earliest memories too, but my brother Mack, my sister Rachel and I took a big box my mom had and cut it out and decorated it to look like a t.v. and then we would do puppet shows for our parents. I wonder if they remember it...

6. What piece of advice have you received that you will NEVER forget? Good or bad.

Pee often... Before and after sex to avoid bladder infections. It was given at a friends bridal shower, from a different friends mom. I have followed it, and to date it has proven true! ;)TMI???

7. You're driving, approaching an intersection and the light is yellow. What do you do? Would your answer change if your kids weren't in the back seats? Would your answer change if your mother-in-law was in the passenger seat?

I would speed up. Same if my kids were in the back. Belle often squeals with delight when I speed up (not the reason I speed if I do though!) If my mother in law or my mother were in the passenger seat on the other hand I would slow down.

8. What do you do to keep your eye on the prize when it all just gets to be too much?

I have learned through the last few years that in this life we aren’t meant to just live, it‘s not enough. We are asked to “endure well” our trials. So when a trial(s) rears it’s ugly head I ask myself am I enduring this? Or am I enduring this well? And I-- to the best of my understanding- try to endure it well. I think a lot of people (including myself at times) don’t understand the difference of ’enduring well’ and just ’enduring’, but I’ve come to learn that it isn’t just suffering though and living through a specific trial. It’s learning something from it and growing from it.

O.k. now it’s my turn. I tag:

1. Rachel
2. Mariam
3. Melissa
4. Shontell
5. Jacque
6. Teresa T.
7. Jonnie
8. Sheigh

Here are your questions:

1. What is your guilty pleasure when you are home alone and no one to see?
2. What is your favorite movie from your kids selection? One you don’t mind sitting to watch with them.
3. If you could remodel any room in your house and have someone else pay for it what room would it be?
4. What reality show would you most likely be on?
5. Do you have a go to person that you tell everything to? (other than your husband) Why do you go to that person?
6. What is the story/ meaning behind your child’s first name? Or if you don’t have kids, what is a name you have picked out, and why?
7. How many purses do you own? How often do you change them?
8. What is the most expensive article of clothing you have (other than jewelry) Where do you wear it and do you wear it often?

Aaaaaand go!!
(I know you are all totally stoked) ;)

8 questions x 2 ...Part 1

2010-09-27T20:28:00.003-06:00

I’ve been tagged! And what is better than a fellow blogger tagging YOU? Picking YOU and 7 others out of all the other bloggers in the world? Wanting to hear YOUR answers? Having TWO bloggers tag you THAT'S what is better!! (I think they probably couldn’t think of any others and has to pick a filler) ;) But I’m oh so happy to oblige!!

So how you play is you answer the eight questions they ask, and then tag 8 others, and ask 8 new questions.

So here is the first set. From Sami at her blog here.

1. Do you collect anything? What is it? If not, do you WISH you did?

I collect trinket boxes. It was something I started collecting when my Grandma started her travels around the world. I would implore her to bring me back a trinket box, from her far off destination. Now, I’ll ask friends and family to humor me. My first one was given to me by my friend Mariam loooooong ago. My last one was from my little bro and his wife on their honeymoon to Mexico. They want to know what I wanted in return for my help at their wedding (and being Janice’s personal stylist that day). That was the only thing I wanted. :-)

2. What room in your house would you most like to remodel? Would your answer change if someone else was paying for it?

Well, I’m renting right now, so it’s not my house to remodel. If I could it would be the kitchen. It’s not bad, and it’s functional, but the pantry needs fixed, new cabinets, counter tops and flooring. I would add a bar to the one end that has useless space, and I would add a sliding door where there is only currently a window.

3. What is your LEAST favorite chore? Do you hate it enough to get a maid to do it, or are you too anal for that?

My least favorite chore? Like as in ONE?? Well, if I had to pick one it would be washing walls. It's probably my least favorite because I did it today. Tomorrow will be laundry.

4. Have you ever broken a bone? What, and how?

I have broken lots of bones. Proof positive I’m a klutz.

Youngest brake: I was 5 in my back yard with a neighborhood friend on my families trampoline. When we were done jumping we realized the ladder to get off the tramp was across the yard at the apricot tree. He told me to go get it. I refused. I informed him that he as the gentleman should get it for ME. He retorted that it was my house and I should get it. He pushed me off the tramp, my arm landed on the sprinkler.

My mom said I never cried, and stormed into the house carrying my visibly broken arm, "Look what Nick did!!"

Worse brake: when I broke my ankle in the growth plate, and had to have it pinned, and then have the pins taken out.

Most recent brake: about 6 months before Belle was a flutter in my tummy I fell down the stairs and broke my foot. I didn’t take any time off work, and worked in a walking cast. Yeah, I’m that cool.

5. Music. Do you have a go-to album that you play to get you motivated, or do you just blare the radio, and pray that something peppy comes on?

I usually blare the radio. But my all time favorite c.d. that always gets me in a good mood, is Journey the greatest hits. Jarrod proposed with Journey playing in the background. I teas him that he knew I would say yes because Journey was playing. Or, ABBA's greatest hits. I LOOOOOOVE ABBA

6. How do you keep track of your schedule? Old fashioned calendar? Set alerts on your phone? Fly by the seat of your pants, and pray you don't forget a Parent/Teacher conference?

It’s a 40/60 mixture of fly by the seat of my pants, and set the alerts on my phone.

7. Cooking, baking, or neither?

Baking for sure.

8. Are you brand name specific, or are generics just as good? What is one product you would NEVER replace with a generic brand?

Are we talking food still? My mom is/was a brand name snob. My sister tells me generics are just as good, and she can’t tell a difference. On baking goods I stay with the name brand.

If we aren't talking food, I think generic brands are more than better... because I can't afford name brands ;-)

Part two stay tuned…

4 years /4 stories: Story #3

2010-09-26T20:25:00.000-06:00

I was ailing yet again with another migraine. Carter with his constant desire to take care of his mom implored me to lay down. He would watch his sister-- for the first time.

Not in any shape to argue, or even any mental ability to think about the possible consequences, I succumbed to my bed, leaving Thing One (9), and Thing Two(1½) to fend for themselves. About two hours later, my migraine ebbing, and waking from my respite I found this.

Belle and C.J. have always had an… unique relationship. He is her protector/tormentor her friend/rival and her educator/pawn. He teaches her to spit, blow bubbles with gum, and play tennis on the Wii. He ballroom dances with her while on his knees, twirling her and dipping her, making her feel like a real princess. He chases her, and growls at her. He lets her put clips in his hair. He stuffs her in boxes. He dunks her in the pool. But one thing is sure… He loves his sister.

It's comming, it's comming!

2010-09-25T14:14:00.000-06:00

I'm not done, I promise, I have been crazy busy with work this week, along with all my other motherly duties. So blogging has been on the back burner for just a bit. I have story #3 ready to go, just some pics to edit first!

So, stay tuned!

xoxo

4 years /4 stories: Story #2

2010-09-19T22:27:00.002-06:00

One of the biggest occurrences to happen in Belles short life (and one of the hardest to put to words) was the passing of her Grandma Salynn. J-rods mom had been battling cancer off and on years before we got married. Her body gave out only 2½ short months after Belle (her only granddaughter) was born.

We only have a few pictures of Belle and her grandma together. This is my favorite, taken at the hospital with Belle only a few hours old. The others are too personal to show here.

When Belle was born at 3:00 in the morning Jarrod called his mom to tell her the news. She came to the hospital right away, to my surprise. I knew how she hadn’t been feeling well, but she was up (from the pain of the tumor in her spine) anyway. I will never forget how excited she was to see Belle.

Burnt in my mind are some of the far too few, precious moments they had together in the weeks before she passed. And forever tugging at my heart are the tears that Salynn shed as she held her grandbaby for the last time.

4 years /4 stories: Story #1

2010-09-16T23:02:00.001-06:00

I got this type of post idea from fellow blogger Cannwin here.

It’s been a busy/productive/very ordinary day. I had a dr. appointment in the morning. Then ran to the store while Carter was at school and Jarrod at work. I then did some much needed housecleaning even though I didn’t feel like doing much. Fixed dinner, making everyone is full and happy.

With the day winding down and the rest of the family watching t.v. my mom called to check on me. She knew I hadn’t been feeling well, and wanted to see how I was doing. I told her I was fine and to get some rest herself. After getting Carter to bed about 8:30 so he could be bright eyed for school, I decided to put one last load of laundry in.

Finally, I decided to sit and relax, waiting for my show to come on. As I start to sit, my water breaks.

Holly cow!! I didn’t think it would happen today! (I don’t know if you ever think it will happen when it does) The dr has been telling me it could be any time for the last month. Today I was sick of hearing about it. It wasn’t going to happen for weeks, I just begrudgingly knew it. She would be late. She would take her sweet time entering the world, and make me 2 weeks over due. But here she is, ready, making her entrance. Thinking, “Mommy is going to sit and relax after a hard day of work?? I don’t think so! I‘m ready now!”

Here she is her first pictures and me only pushing 3 times.

The dr said I made it look easy *pat on back* He probably tells all the moms that if they haven’t yelled or screamed at him. I told him I had to get home. I had laundry to do.

Mmm-hmm... yep

2010-09-15T23:06:00.003-06:00

Sooo... can every post I write be a ‘Dear Someone’ post? No? You don’t want to ~~hear~~ read me whining all the time? I have to thank Evelyn for the idea, because as you can probably tell, I have been lacking on the posting ideas lately.

You see, I’m a middle child, through and through (social, easy going, peacemaker, feels misunderstood/unnoticed, sense of not belonging, and loves to express creativity) ... with perfectionist tendencies. Which (after reading self-help books on the matter) means that I will start something and then lack the confidence to finish it. "Like?" you ask?

Like:
The sewing machine I bought, and was DYING to use... until I got it in my home. Now, it sits (with it’s cool little cover) thread ready to use and all, but barely touched.

Or 

The half finished crafts I bought at thrift stores or yard sales with decoration ideas in mind... and now are collecting dust.

Or

The self-help books I love to read... but I haven’t finished ONE of them. -Oh, wait maybe... nope. Not one. (did I mention I have Adult A.D.D.?... and I like to label myself??) 

Or

The HUNDREDS of flowers that sit in a bag with ribbon and clips, waiting for me to make into pretty little hair-clips.

Or

The half crocheted blanket I started for Belle... While I was still pregnant with her.

Or

My office/craft  area that DESPERATELY needs organizing, but I don’t because what  if I do, and then I can’t find anything. I know it  doesn’t make sense!

The three books I have started writing...  that the thought of finishing them and having someone read them makes me  want to run back to my bed and stay there, even though I LOVE  the creative rush it gives me to write  them.

Or

My blog.

I want to post more. Every day I think “I could write about this ____” or I think “who want’s to hear me talk about that” or “didn’t ______ talk about that over at their blog?” or “that’s too much like ______ is posting about now.” The doubts and ’thinking’ are creatively crippling.

I’ve been wanting to dedicate my blog to something... like some people have weekly or monthly themes. Mine can be toward all the things I want to do and accomplish, but haven’t. And of course it will be sprinkled with random posts and family updates!

What do you think? Do you love it??

xoxoxo

Dear Someone,

2010-09-10T10:23:00.004-06:00

Dear Pearly Whites (a.k.a teeth),

We have know each other for some time now. We have been with each other day and night going on 30 years right?? Could you please show a little favoritism for your host, and stop with the throbbing pain in the middle of the night? I know something is wrong, and I’m taking you to your own very special dr. for it on Monday. I take very good care of you. I brush you for about 2min. twice a day. I even rub you with a waxy string you like. So please stop falling apart. I would like to keep you around for another… 60+ years. I promise to be good to you.

Affectionately,
Only Chewing On One Side

Dear Mt. Dew,

I only drank a little of you yesterday, but you kept me up way past my bed time. You never used to do this to me. I used to drink oz. and oz. of you and it would have nary an effect on me. But last night I’m sure you had something to do with my sleepless night. You and my tooth on the left side… the one clear in the back. I think you two are ganging up on me.

Cheers,
Sleepless Night

Dear Barbie,

Do you really have to dress like that? My daughter is starting to like having you, and your friends around, but I’m having a hard time finding one of you with adequate clothing. Skirts/Shorts that barely cover your bum, and plunging necklines that plummet to your midriff is hardly suitable attire to wear when tinkering in the imagination of my impressionable 4 year old. Don’t even get me started on the glittery painted on top that is literally... painted on. I would just make cloths and dress you myself but I find it hard to justify the price I have to pay for you, and spend time on cloths for you. So until you can be more creative with your wardrobe choice, you and your friends will be pretty scarce around our home.

Sincerely,
Modest Mom

Dear Payday,

I’m so glad you are here. I have been waiting for you desperately patiently for the last 13 ½ days. I wish you could be here every day.

Thankfully,

Money does buy me happiness

Dear J-rod,

I can’t thank Payday without thanking you. So thank you for sending the payday’s my way. And thank you for being so willing to work so hard to make the payday’s possible, while I stay home.. especially when most men wont.

Love,

with all my heart,

Your Eternal Companion

Go over and visit ShortMama at Family of Shorts for more Dear Someones!

SHAMFULLY over due

2010-09-08T10:18:00.001-06:00

Remember how I posted here that I never win anything? Well I won! An end to a loosing streak? I hope so! Over at Symmetry in Motion she does a contest on the 15th of the month. She has cleverly named it Quince Quote.

And here are the fruits of my labors!
I got this bowl full of goodies along with a copy of the movie 'Beaches' (the movie that the quote was from) on my doorstep on Monday... uh... last week. Oops! Sorry it took me so long to post, Sami!

I stole the pic of the bowl from her facebook she posted because I couldn't get a good pic with my camera. But it is by far my most favorite part! I just love it. Thanks so much Sami!!

Oh, and the look on my husbands face when I told him I won this from a blog I follow? Just icing on the cake! So head over there, follow her, participate in her give-away, and you wont be sorry! I just knew my useless retention of one-liners from movies would come in handy... one day!

Monday's Memories

2010-08-23T13:09:00.005-06:00

The bambinos and I went down to see Jarrod this weekend (by the way he is coming home this week for good!… until he gets sent off again) where he has been in a different city training agents for the company he works for. Well, this town just happened to be the city I spent the first years of my life in until I was nine, and we moved.

Driving around my ’home’ town, showing my kids the house I used to live in, and the parks we played in, well it brought back… memories. Giving me a prompt for my blog, hence the post title ‘Monday’s Memories’. Part of the reason I started to blog was for journaling-type purposes. And what better way to start off my new Monday theme ‘Monday’s Memories’ than with one of my first memories, all be it a short one.

It was back in Dec. 1982, when I was barely 2. We were at a family Christmas party on my dads side of the family. I don’t remember who’s house we were at. I remember a few members of his family there Grandpa, Grandma, and my Aunt Sharon. I don’t remember the specifics, like who else was all there, but I do think it was BEFORE Christmas maybe Christmas Eve because I don’t remember having any other presents yet and it was night.

O.k. for the memory itself… Rachel (my sister who is two years older) had gotten this cute makeup kit from aunt Sharon. I can see it perfectly in my head to this day. It was white, and heart shaped, with flavored pink and red lip glosses, cream blush, and sparkly cream eye-shadow. Little wands to apply the waxy (why do kids like that stuff??) contents, and a mirror, who can forget the mirror? Rachel was never really a girly girl. But when she saw my reaction to her present she did what any young girl with a little sister would do… she played with it… in front of me, relishing the pain she caused me as she slowly and meticulously applied the makeup. All while I sat anxiously, envying, practically drooling close by. After I articulated to my parents about the injustice of it all… as well as a two year old can, Rachel did begrudgingly pat my lips with a finger swipe of gloss, while complaining that is was HER present and she shouldn't have to share.

What did I get from Aunt Sharron??

I think it was a doll (I'm sure it was something good though. She always gave the best presents. I still have the Barbie furniture she hand-made for me.)

That’s right. I can’t remember what I got, even though I can describe in detail Rachel’s present.

Hey, I never promised to have a GREAT memory!

'Stressed' is 'Desserts' spelled backwards.

2010-07-22T01:29:00.002-06:00

C.J., Belle, and I were in the car today. My mind was going a million miles a minute. First we have go to the bank and deposit the check, then we have to stop and pay rent, then to Fried Myers to return the broken toy, finally (and what the three year old in the back was most excited about) McDonald's for a little play time.

In the midst of thinking about bills, and money, and Jarrod being gone, and he should be doing this, and we need milk, and I want a soda but the kids would want on too so I wont get one, and I hope Jarrod’s job is going o.k. and… more bills C.J. asks,

“Mom, have you ever had a sugar daddy?”

Instantly my mind drifted off to all the things a ‘sugar daddy’ entails in my mind. Trips to Europe, jewelry- that I didn‘t have to get from QVC because it‘s real, nice cars that are leased because we can afford it, a big house with a gourmet kitchen vaulted ceilings and a craft room… the finer things in life that poor people such as ourselves daydream about.

Lost in my reverie I mumbled my answer,(sigh) “I wish.”

C.J. was quite for a minute, contemplating my answer when he said,

“No, mom, the candy bar.”

Oops. At least we got a good laugh out of it.

Oh, Dear Daddy

2010-07-21T12:05:00.002-06:00

Do you ever write a whole blog post and then decide it’s too long and then end up scratching the whole thing? I did… I gave up on it. I told my new little post that it was bad, and not so little anymore, and had to go to the ‘untitled document’ file where all the other bad- never published blog post go. Bad, bad blog post.

But I couldn't stop thinking of this post. I can’t stop thinking about how relevant it is to my life right now. Isn’t that supposed to be what I post about on my blog? Stuff that is relevant to my life? So I went back to the ‘untitled document’ file. I got out my sad discarded blog post, and petted it (edited it) and showed it some love. So here it is the post I wrote for Monday…

July 19th 2010,

Well, Jarrod leaves tomorrow. Last time I posted about him leaving I was feeling a little numb. Today, I’m feeling quite… apprehensive? As soon as we found out about his leaving, I new the one who would be the most affected by it would be Belle. She is a daddy’s girl. When ever anything goes wrong in her day, her first question is, “when will my daddy be home? I want my daddy.” As soon as he is home she is by his side like glue. Playing with him, lining her toys around him, watching what ever sport he is watching cheering right along with him. He is her #1.

On Saturday the day after we found out he would be leaving I was doing hair at my parents home. (When I was pregnant with Belle, and decided that I was going to be a SAHM, my parents were remodeling their basement, and decided to add a wet station for me to do hair from.) Belle was tired, and in need of a nap. I was working on my sister (luckily, I would have been mortified if it was a client) and Belle hit her wall- like most 3yo do- going 90.

First, she wet her pants. After I made her take her pants off, and realizing the pants optional look wasn’t an option with a house full of family, I looked for an old t-shirt in my dad’s closet and made her a makeshift dress.

Second, she declared she was hungry. Not an easy fix when I’m up to my elbows in perm solution, and Nanny is sick laying down.

Third, and most significant, she came to the conclusion that she was done. tired. and wanted a nap. Not a unusual thing for her. When she reaches her limit she will tell you. Generally with an “I just can’t TAKE IT anymore!” Once she has come to that point there is no going back. One needs to just help her to her bed as soon as possible. BUT, it has to be HER bed, with HER ‘squishy’ baby, and Her ‘Tinker Bell blanky’.

So here I am like Edward Scissor-Hands, perming, coloring cutting (yes I know he didn’t color, or perm, but imagine hair flying and me working away) with my little ankle bitter (that’s what she felt like) crying and begging/pleading that she wanted to ‘go home’ and ‘see daddy’. With not a soul in the house able to sooth her.

Were WAS her dear daddy? At our house completely oblivious to all of this with his cell phone accidentally (and not usually) left in the car, and the house phone turned off (that was my fault, I turn the phone off at nap time when I lay down with Belle, but I had forgotten to turn it on.)

As my sister sat processing her color for 45min. I had time to run Belle up the street to our home. As soon as we walked in the door, she ran strait to her daddy, and all was made right with the world.

Ok. Now that you know more about me care if I purge a little?

2010-07-16T20:40:00.002-06:00

… verbally that is.

What better way to follow up a get to know me post with a random off the top of my head post, right?

First off, Jarrod is leaving for 5 WEEKS to go train agents at a different sight for his company. I’m not sure how I feel about this. I’m really happy for him, and excited. It’s a great opportunity to flex his leadership muscles in his new position he was promoted to. I would hear about other friends and family who’s husbands would leave for less periods of time than this, and my heart would ache for them. I know how hard it is to be without your hubby… maybe the reality hasn’t hit yet, but I’m pretty numb about it. Not to mention he will miss our yearly family vacation... and my 30th B-day. I wish I had my sisters in-laws. Then I could send the kids off and go on a mini-vaca. :)

Second, C.J. is back from scout camp. I missed him sooooo much!! He has been gone off and on all summer, I feel like I hardly get him back before he is off again. But for now he is home and safe. And the sweetest words a mom can hear from a pubescent 12yo? “I missed you so much, mom.”

Third (and slightly more personal) Is EVERYONE pregnant?? Everyone but me that is and my sister. I have the sweetest brother. He and his wife were telling me and my sister how it has to be a sign of the times because everyone they know is/was pregnant… we‘re talking baby after baby. That Heavenly Father was ‘opening the flood gates’ (for lack of a better term). They went on to prove their point by telling us that they got pregnant not even a month after she was off her birth control. My sister (can’t get pregnant because of an effect from her hubby having chemotherapy to fight off his cancer) and I (just can’t get prego… don‘t know why) just stared at them… I think my mouth might have been open… I distinctly remember there being crickets chirping… ok maybe not the crickets.
When I say I have the sweetest brother I didn’t mean it sarcastic… a little oblivious, but the sweetest still. So, when I hear about another ‘flood gate’ opening (that sounds so wrong, sorry) I furrow my brow a little… o.k and some times I cry.
I have a dear friend who has gone through the pain I have x10. I really shouldn’t complain, because she suffered more, longer. But she is a great sounding board for me, telling me to have faith, and in short, ‘Be happy’.
For the most part I am. Am so grateful for the two munchkins I do have. And my husband always looking on the lighter side says, ‘Hey, we’ll be 44 when Belle is out of the house, then we can travel’. Sounds good to me.

20 Things you don’t know about me.

2010-07-16T06:46:00.000-06:00

(ok, some of you might)

1. As soon as I log on the internet, I check US Weekly.com and catch up on the latest celebrity gossip.

2. I hate doing dishes, but love a clean kitchen.

3. My first memory is of a Christmas when I was 2-ish, and my sis got a makeup kit… but I don’t remember what I got.

4. I want to go back to collage. For fun. And I don’t want to pay for it… or get grades.

5. I like my hair longer in the front than in the back if it is short.

6. I have agoraphobia, and it is worse on cloudy days.

7. I want to take ballroom dancing classes with my hubby.

8. I prefer flip-flops to any other form of foot wear.

9. If I’m reading a book, and I can’t handle the suspense, I will read ahead and spoil the ending so I can relax.

10. Usually when ever someone asks me advice, I always think ‘what would Dr. Laura say’ and give that answer.

11. I read self help books, but get bored and rarely finish them.

12. I have been off any form of birth control for 3 years, but can’t get prego.

13. I highlighted my own hair last week.

14. I can read a book over and over, but will only watch a movie once. Even if I liked it a lot.*

15. When I text it kills me not to answer back. Even if it is clear no response is needed.

16. I’m extremely jealous of my sister in law (good thing she doesn’t read this)

17. I regret not getting a professional photographer for our wedding.

18. I have insulin resistance.

19. I find it easier to text with acrylic nails on.

20. I always put the laundry in the dryer, but for some reason, I can’t ever remember to put the towels in, and some times they sit in the washer for days and start to smell so I have to rewash them.

*Except for my favorite movies based from Jane Austen’s novels.

What can I say... I'm a sucker

2010-07-15T18:12:00.001-06:00

So I’m entering a give away. I’ve done only a handful before, and have NEVER won. But I know this blogger. I used to live in the same building as this blogger. And I have heard good things about her giveaways. So I thought, “why not.”

She does a giveaway every month on the 15th of every month called Quince Quote and you have to guess the movie quote she comes up with, and I know the answer!!

The quote:
"I know everything there is to know about you. And my memory is long, very, very long."

The answer:
Beaches

When they are at the beach house after Hilary gets sick, CC (played by Bette Miller) says “I know everything there is to know about you. And my memory is long, very, very long." When CC gets up to go in the house, Hilary looks off into the distance and says "I'm counting on it..."

So here’s hopping I win!! I’m telling you I could really use it. :)

Smacked with Reality

2010-07-14T23:17:00.001-06:00

C.J. asked me a question the other day, “What era do you wish you were born in?” He is often asking these types of questions like, “What war was your favorite?” or “If you were an assassin, what would your weapon of choice be?” Yep. He’s ALL boy. He usually asks just as a way to be able to tell me what his answer is. I know his motive so I usually answer the first thought that comes to my head, and then listen intently as he proceeds to tell me his answer and why. He does honestly want to know my answer and why, but… he is twelve, and right now he wants to tell me his thought of the moment.

But on this particular day, he stumped me… or should I say my answer was conflicted. “The Regency Era,” was my first response. Most of you could have probably guessed that. I write about it, read about it… fantasize about it.

I think of the Captain Wentworth’s and Colonel Brandon’s of the regency era, and I think who wouldn’t want to live back then? All the dancing, and poetry readings, and gossip!! Yep, sounds good to me. Plus, I look SMASHING in an empire waist.

But then... women oppression, aristocracy, and simple lack of personal hygiene made me think about my answer, concluding it is a good era to write and romanticize about, not to LIVE in. I mean seriously they thought bathing by emersion was a SIN. Need I say more?

“I guess the 1950's.” I finally concluded. I could totally dig wearing dresses like these all day.

His answer? The Renascence Era. So he could be an assassin, and live at the same time of Michelangelo.

When It's O.K. To Be A Coppy-Cat...

2010-07-02T12:05:00.001-06:00

Or what a girl would do to get more followers right?

I joined these sites

Its a fun way to get more followers and follow more blogs, and I'm all about that! So if you are a new follower, leave your like in my comment box, so I can follow you back!

24hrs in MY life…

2010-06-29T00:55:00.003-06:00

I got this idea from my friends blog here.

June 28th
12am- I snuggle down to watch one of my favorite home improvement shows. (I’m a night owl, what can I say)

12:18- J appears around the corner with Belle who has woken up.

12:19- Belle and I snuggle down to watch my show

12:30- Belle is back asleep, and I take her to her bed.

2:36- Belle wakes me from a DEEP sleep. She want’s to snuggle again, and I’m too groggy to put her to bed.

3:30- J gets out of bed to use the ‘loo’ and I jump on the chance to roll out of bed with Belle and not waking her put her were she belongs.

4:40- J’s alarm goes off.

4:50- J’s alarm goes off again.

6:30- Luna’s turn for the ‘Loo’

8:13- I realize I forgot to make J a lunch, and text him to say sorry.

9:47- My dad calls to ask if I will go with him to the ‘hair supply store’ so he can get some shampoo he is out of.

10:11- Belle has an 'accident' and decides nude is the better option for the day.

12:38- J texts me telling me he loves me.

1:11pm- After struggling all morning, I finally get out of the house and head to Wal-Mart for some necessities we are out of.

1:20pm- Belle and I stop to get a soda and the local Sinclair.

1:28pm- I spill all 44oz. of my soda on the floor of my van… and I haven’t even left the Sinclair parking lot.

2:00- I head back home to clean the mess... and I give up on Wal-mart. Belle asks ‘Are you done crying, Mom?’

2:15- I call my dad to tell him to meet me at the supply store. He offers to take Belle and me to ice-cream frist.

2:38- Belle tells me, “I can’t wait to hug Grandpa.” on our way to the ma and pa ice-cream parlor we frequent.

3:21- I stop at my mom and dads to get a few groceries I would have gotten at Wal-mat. There are perks to living less than a mile away from the parents... especially on days like these.

5:15pm- Dinner is done, Carter is home from his friends, and I sit with Belle outside while she plays in her ‘shark pool’ and beet up slip n-slide.

6:31 I clean the kitchen trying to listen to Dr. Laura (it's not working) hoping I can get on the computer soon.

8:00- I sit to watch some reality in the sanctuary of my room… door shut, not locked, but shut.

9:30- Kids are in bed, and I finally get to sit at the computer to make a ‘button’ for my sisters blog.

11:30- Still working on sisters button.

12:00am- Finishing up a post for my blog.

Sometimes you have to be at the right place at the right time!

2010-06-22T09:25:00.006-06:00

Well, as promised I'm posting about the one big perk I got from my trip to SLC. While at my aunts (where my cousin has her station to do hair) she proceeded to tell me that she was going on a book tour, because she is now a published author!! (I'm totally psyched... and a little jealous, but she has waited a very long time for this) Well, she is going on book tour, and wanted to find a good home for her beloved 1 year old Imperial Shih Tzu, Luna.

We have wanted a dog for quite a while. We didn't have a good experience with our first puppy (Dare I say the common consensus was that he was a little.... inbred) and we were hesitant to get a new dog. We almost adopted a puppy a few weeks ago, but I client of mine who is a dog aficionado, warned me about that particular breed. So we were determined to wait, until the right aportunity approached. Did it ever!

Here is Miss Luna, as we like to call her...

We really couldn't be any happier!! She fits in our family so perfectly. She is so sweet, and SMART. And it is a big bonus we got to skip the puppy stage! She's already crate trained.

I know it looks like Belle has a death grip on her, but they really do get along great!

Grab a cool drink, and sit for a bit.

2010-06-21T15:07:00.003-06:00

I went to SLC this past Thursday. I was so excited. Jarrod was staying home, and even though I would miss his help with the kids, and companionship, I was glad to get away, and not have to hurry home (he is a home body, and doesn't like to venture out of town very often) A few days before we left I wasn't feeling well. I could tell I had the flu but as Thursday got closer, I started to feel better. Belle had Pink Eye the week before but we were able to get it cleared up before we left. We hurried down to SLC and I couldn't tell if I wasn’t feel well, or that I was anticipating going down without J (I'm not big on the traffic, even though I used to live down there).

The night we got there we stayed at my sisters. Belle slept for an hour, and then the rest of the night was spent with me trying to rock or soothe her as she writhed in pain from stomach cramps. Looks like she got my flu... and I got her pinkeye. Oh, the joys of mother hood, right? Luckily I had started the antibiotic earlier that week for myself because I could feel it coming on so I wasn't contagious, just miserable.

Friday was spent with family, yard-sale shopping, getting my hair done, me doing hair, and more driving.

All which I LOVE to do.

All making my miserable condition 10x worse.

I had plans to stay until Sat, maybe even Sunday. I had nothing to hurry home to, and my husband was perfectly content being home alone (he misses us terribly when we are gone and- I must confess- that is a perk... because he loves us up when we get back) But he likes the alone time (I hardly would know what to do with myself, alone, for a weekend... on payday weekend might i add-- Some people don't drink alone, I can't shop alone) So after an extensive internal debate, I decided to drive home that night.

So here I am driving home Friday night with a horrible sore throat, exhausted from only sleeping a total of 2 hours the night before with Belle, and a pink eye that wouldn't stop weeping and 'gunking' up the whole 3 hrs that I tried to wipe out so I could see, but I could feel was making the eye soreness worse. I got to North Ogden and pulled over debating with myself whether or not to call for reinforcements, or be a big girl and drive myself home. I chose the later, and hurried home to my hubby. It was one of those times that you are so grateful for your husband, and so glad to be in his arms.

So I get home, and J runs out to get dinner. Even though it was 8:00 we hadn't eaten yet. I shortly passed out, and didn't even budge until the next morning. It was one of those 'wake up in the same position you fell asleep in' nights. I proceeded to sleep all Saturday except some zombie like moments when I got out of bed to eat, or take meds..

And then it became Sunday...

Fathers Day...

Which I had PLANNED to prepare for in SLC on SATURDAY. I had EVERY intention to make his day special. But, for two whole days INCLUDING Fathers day, he spent letting me sleep. Keeping the kids at bay. Feeding them. And attending to me. I am ever so grateful for the rest, and my babies daddy.

p.s…..
Oh, but I was/am so bitter about the trip! It was ruined! Had I stayed I could have gone to see my cousins new home. Participated in a 'Brazilian Blowout' that is all the rage in the styling business (they are quite pricey but the education would have improved my portfolio!) Spent the night again at my sisters whom I can’t see often enough, gone swimming, done some craft shopping at stores we don‘t have in our neck of the woods... the list is endless.

I did get one big perk, though…. But I’m going to blog about that tomorrow.

Possible Intervention May Be Required.

2010-06-13T21:46:00.006-06:00

Dear Crafty Blogs that I follow,

Could you please stop with the endless 'give aways' every other post? I have tried to win, but even if it were rigged, I still don't think I could pull it off. They are like dangling a carrot in front of a rabbit, showing me cute things that if I were a bit more crafty I could accomplish. Please go back to showing me crafts.

I love crafts, but could you speak to me in more layman's terms? Don't tell me "run a gathering stitch down the center line". This just requires me to ask my TOP crafty/sewing real life friend Mariam what the heck a gathering stitch is "It's the stitch I showed you when we did ______ project." Just tell me "Set your stitch length to the longest stitch". I get that.

Could you keep the crafts that need power tools down to a minimum? That would be great.

Even though I LOVE all the other crafty blogs you have on your side bar(s) would you stop adding to them? I can't stop myself from looking at "just one more" and then, I get lost on the blogger web.... Is there a limit to how many blogs one can follow? I think I'm reaching the limit, and if you would just stop recommending other blogs to me, I might be able to get this under control.

My last final request is that you stop making it look so easy? So that if I only had the supplies I too could recreate the wonderfulness (yes it is a word) that you did. Could you just tell me, "It was REALLY hard," or "Don't even TRY that one", so I don't go days and days thinking how cute that idea would be on the wall above my couch, or in Belle's room, or how it will blow my sisters mind when I give it to her for Christmas. Just tell me "Find something cheep at Wal-mart" so I can sleep at night.

Thanks So Much!

Your Devoted Follower,

Oooooh la la!

2010-04-18T21:27:00.003-06:00

I have a blog crush. Surfing blogs I wound up (don't even ask me how) here. It was love at first sight. I'm at the giddy/obsessed stage. You know where you check several times a day to see if there is a new post. I mean it's good looking, smart, witty and spontaneous. Sigh...

Well, luckily I follow her on Facebook too, so that's like 800 times a day I get to see her random comments... which is about 793 too many, so I'll probably have to hide her. Sigh.

When my blog grows up I would like it to be like hers, with a cute pet name for my hubby (she calls her hubby 'Lover'... cute hu?) Or a professional design... or even people that pay me for ad space on my blog.

You know who else has a cute blog, my sister! You can check her out here. And I'm not just saying that because she wrote a post on her blog to me. Nope.

Guest Blogger: Bella

2010-04-15T19:22:00.003-06:00

It's hard to be me. I'm glad I am past my "Terrible Twos" stage in my life, so I can move on to the bigger better stage of "Horrific -make my mom want bash her head against a wall- Threes".

I go around the house in attempt of forcing my subjects to succumb to my every whim. There is a lot of wailing and gnashing of teeth... mostly on my part. But I won't give up. One of these days they will learn.

My mom thinks sometimes I grow horns like this...

Sometimes when I look like this...

I make my mom say crazy things like,
"Don't wipe the whole table with your P.B.&J. sandwich."
"Why are there 5 TOWELS in the tub with you??"
"You don't need to lick the rocks."

But mostly I act like this...

Well, that's what my dad says.

It's Days Like These...

2010-04-14T16:00:00.001-06:00

That make me want to
~ deep clean my house
~start working out again
~go to lunch with a friend
~sit on the grass and watch my kids play
~eat healthy real fruit Popsicles

That make me feel
~alive again
~content
~optimistic
~energized

Ahhh. The sun. Mi amore. Such a welcome change is the weather today. Last week it was snowy, cloudy, windy, cold. Today, a glorious warm sunny spring day.
I am a solar being. I really need the sun to function. I feel like a new person. I thrive on days like these.

He's soaking in the sun if you couldn't tell. :)

Disconnected Layer Woes

2010-04-13T18:37:00.002-06:00

I do hair. Most of you know that. I've even done most of your hair right? Or I've talked to you about hair. I'm going to familiarize you with a trade term, called 'disconnected layers'. Pretty self explanatory right? Most layers are soft and blended.

Like this..

Some like this are more choppy, but still blended...

This is disconnected...

or this...

even this...

To get technical, bangs ('fringe' being the technical term) are a disconnected layer.

I'm not opposed to disconnected layers. They are fun, and unique. Even if they are a bugger to grow out.

But there is one kind of D.L. I am apposed to. The self made kind. The self made kind by a three year old. The kind made by a three year old witnessed by her cousin of the same age, in the confines of her Nannies basement bathroom while going unwatched by her older brother.

The kind that looks like this....

and this...

I really couldn't get a good shot of it, to show you all how HORRIBLE it really is!! o.k. It's not THAT bad. It does blend a little, when it's not sticking straight up! Thank-goodness she has curly hair to hide it!

It's o.k I'll admit it.

2010-04-02T15:29:00.001-06:00

Well, so much for that! I was reading a fellow bloggers blog and noticed my blog was on their blog roll, down close to the bottom, with 'One Month Ago' under the post title. Oops! ONE MONTH? since I pledged to you all that I would post EVERY DAY?! And after all that encouragement you all gave me.... Well, to any of those that thought it was a good idea feel free to take it and run with it. I'll even give you the book!

Well, I think after a month with us sick, getting better, then sick again. I think I'm going to keep things simple around here.

Activity 145

2010-02-16T22:57:00.001-07:00

I debated whether or not to do my new project from #1, or to just thumb through the book and find one that strikes my fancy. So, I have #1 waiting and ready to go.

But, it's one of the 'those days'. Where, I counted down the last half hour I had until it was bed time for the cutest little 3 year old ballerina on the planet. Because, sometimes even the cutest little 3 year old ballerina on the planets mom, wears down and needs a break.

So today it was going to be just Carter and me. Even with #1 set and ready to go, it's one for the outside, and one Belle would love. Our activity #145- 'Ibble Dibble' sounded like a good choice.

"Hey, Carter." I try to draw him in, "I have a little game for us." You have to remember he's two weeks shy of 12, and every bit the 'see if you can impress me' pre-teen. I have to be creative to get him to think he wants to do this with me, not just that he is amusing me. "This is a thing you and I can do when we want to talk in code." I proceeded to tell him the jist of it.

It's like op-talk. You put Ibble or Dibble in front of the vowels in words. So "strawberry" would be "stribble-aw-bibble-air-ibble-ee".

His response after the pitch I gave him how this would be fun, and we could use this to talk when Belle is around, or when we are in public to talk in code?

"We should just stick to spelling it out."

Hmmm... o.k. Looks like I need to be more creative. :)

Well it wasn't t.v. kindof....

2010-02-15T23:45:00.000-07:00

We went and saw 'The Lightning Thief'. "Was that on the list?" you ask? No, but one thing I have learned today... I need to plan better for this project!!... and our time.

365 TV-FREE ACTIVITIES You Can Do With Your Child.

2010-02-12T22:03:00.002-07:00

What did you expect me to list them ALL? No, it is a book I found on a bookshelf… on the kids bookshelf… of kids books. I cant really remember where I bought it. However, if memory serves correct, I bought it at D.I. when Carter was a wee one. When I was a single working mom, and wanted to have constructive activities with him.

I’ve pulled it out from time to time over the years, but it always made its way back to the same shelf. The pages were thumbed through, a thought here or there of “That’s a good activity,” or “Belle would like that,” but its fate was always the same.

I recently watched Julie & Julia. I was really touched by the movie. Maybe it was the struggling author in Julie, longing to finally write something to be noticed, that I related to. Maybe it was the Julia’s story, a house wife wanting to fill her time with something constructive that she enjoyed doing and her struggle with infertility, that drew me to her. I know that her husband Paul Child words, “You are the butter to my bread. You are the breath to my life.” will forever be etched in my brain. Whichever it was, I was awed by the clever idea of intertwining a book with your life and blogging about it.

I have been struggling with blogging. My sister who herself has an adorable blog, that is funny, appealing, and always uplifting (and can be found here) has tried to pull me out of my slump, sadly to no avail. My sweet Grandma even pleaded with me that she missed hearing about my adorable children. But I could NEVER be as witty as Mary, as crafty as Ashley, or as insightful as Cannwin, so what’s the point… I give up. (this self deprecation is merely a thought process and not a plea for praise… this once ;})

And then it hit me! This cute adorable simple book, that has been calling my name(and by proxy my children’s) for a decade gave me an idea. Well, an idea I sort of stole from the movie. For the next 365 days I’m going to do one of these activities with one or both of my kiddos… and blog about it. Starting Monday.

I’m still here!

2009-11-23T21:39:00.002-07:00

Wow! This is my 100th post! I can’t believe it! Well, I can... I should say ‘I can’t believe it’s ONLY my 100th post.’ I’ve been blogging twice as long as some of my fellow bloggers, and they probably have doubled my posts. Oh, well. :D

Well, I’ve decided to set a goal for myself. I’m really excited too. And as usual when I’m excited about something I want to share it with everyone. I’ve decided to read the Book of Mormon in 30 days. I tried this about three years ago, but didn’t finish it. My goal is to get it read by Christmas. Let me tell you the coolest part about this... it’s this Read the Scriptures website. You set up a schedule that you want to read and it sends you reminders via e-mail. You can read on your own, on line, or there is even an audio option to have it read to you (you can load it to your iPod even!) Online you can make notes, and highlight passages too!

But there’s more! It’s not limited to just the LDS Scriptures, you can also read Primary Lessons, Church Magazines, Seminary Schedules, Sunday School Reading, and Priesthood and Relief Society Lessons.

It really is cool site, you should go check it out. And even better let me know if you want to join me and read the Book of Mormon in 30 days too!

Grateful Day 5... and 6

2009-11-06T20:17:00.004-07:00

-I’m thankful for JibJab

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

-And I’m Thankful my parents never read my blog. (enter sinister laughter here)

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Grateful Day 3.... and 4

2009-11-04T09:03:00.001-07:00

-I’m thankful for on-line recipe websites, where I got this fabulous Banana Bread recipe! Many of our dinners have been started/saved because of websites like these!

-I’m thankful for FREE DIRECTV (that we get because of Jarrod’s job) with the movie channels, so I can spend a lazy morning with Belle watching Sense and Sensibility.

Oh, so grateful Day 1... and 2

2009-11-02T18:56:00.001-07:00

I saw this on a friend’s blog. And due to lack of originality, I decided to pilfer the idea for my own. (Well, at least I gave the link to her blog, right?)

So, November is the month of Giving Thanks, I’ll name something I’m thankful for each day. (and because I’m starting this a day late, I’ll start with two)

Day 1
-I am thankful for implications from a member of the bishopric at church of a potential visit to my dwelling Sunday afternoon. Without which my humble abode would not be nice and tidy presently.

Day 2
-I am thankful for Daylight Savings still affecting my children, who surrender effortlessly to a 7:30 bedtime.

Better late than never??

2009-10-24T21:35:00.002-06:00

Well, I never posted my Fourth of July pics I took of Belle, and her Parade Stopping Tutu. I didn’t tell you about that either? It was uncanny. People IN the parade would stop and take pictures of HER. It was a Proud Mama Moment.

Well, back to the pictures... it wasn’t the best time to take them (sun at high noon = HORRIBLE lighting) and Belle was in a mood, waiting for the parade to begin. The combination resulted in her refusing to pose, and making funny faces. So I tried to get creative with the editing.

Tell me what you think!!

2009-10-20T09:44:00.001-06:00

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

We are in for a looonng winter.

2009-09-29T12:32:00.003-06:00

"Belle, settle down." I chide at dinner last night followed with a mild lecture on dinner/table etiquette.

"I’m sorry, Mommy," She began her heart felt apology, “I’m just sooo excited for Christmas.”

By the way

2009-09-28T15:05:00.004-06:00

Children seldom misquote.
In fact, they usually repeat word for word what you shouldn't have said.
~Author Unknown

Well, I never clamed to be a movie critic.

2009-09-25T11:37:00.003-06:00

Have you seen ‘P.S. I love you’? I have wanted to see this movie since it came out. I mean HELLO GERARD BUTLER! And I even like Hilary Swank, Lisa Kudrow, Kathy Bates AND Harry Connick Jr. It got great reviews, along with a, “YOU HAVEN’T SEEN THIS??!!” from my movie enthusiast sister.

Now, I’m assuming it is a movie about a woman who loses her husband, and he arranged to have delivered to her after his death these pre-written letters requiring her to do certain things, to help her through the grieving process. Did I get that right?

Awwww... that sounds so sweet right?

I am a Jane Austen badge wearing/ enthusiast of love stories (even love lost- and love again stories)/ romantic.

All those who know me know the previous statement to be true.

So why has it taken me this long to watch this movie? I don’t know... at least I had forgotten for a moment.

I sat in my bed having been sick for the last 10 days. Today being Jarrod’s day off of work this week. Empty house do to a loving husband taking our 3yo to run errands (probably doesn’t know what he is in for) and the 11yo in school. I hunker down for some ‘alone time’ and a ‘chick flick’ on a movie channel (for free I might add- thank-you Directv). What could be better right?

‘Shoot I missed the first ten minutes. That’s o.k. probably missed the sad part.’ I think to myself.

WRONG

O.k. here it is. I watched about 25-ish minutes of this movie. Ya, 25(ish) whole gargantuan minutes before I had to turn it off.

I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t watch it. Even if it does have a really good ending, I couldn’t handle the first part. I describe those 25min. as masochistic misery. Why did I want to see this again?

I know it got great reviews, but one has to know their own limits!

I am one who throws themselves into the arts, a book, a piece of classical music, a ballet or play, and even a movie and is usually moved/brought to tears. Why did I think I could have handled this movie?

I blame the cold medicine.

Just MY luck

2009-09-21T17:34:00.000-06:00

A perk to your BF(best friend) loosing weight
-You get her totally fashionable cute pants she can’t wear

Drawback to getting your BF’s fashionable cute pants
-4 newly acquired pairs of pants that look like highwaters because of inconveniently long legs.

Anyone want some cute pants?

Ouch!

2009-09-18T10:54:00.003-06:00

Have any of you had a random commenter come along and correct your English on a post? Well, I now can say I have. *grumble*

But she told me that’s I’s written’ is funny an wimsical- hee har har. (changed spelling and grammar for emphasis)

Oh, and I did what any humble blogger would do. I erased her comment immediately.

Glenn Beck's 9/12 Message

2009-09-12T13:31:00.001-06:00

So I have this friend…

2009-09-08T22:29:00.002-06:00

-We met in hair school
-We became fast friends
-We trade with each other (we do each others hair and nails)
-Our husbands are best friends
-Our kids play well together
-We have always weighed about the same
-We go on double dates with our hubbies a couple times a month.

And to top it off, her and her husband know more about me and my husband than anyone else on earth.

Well, we see each other often, between her doing my hair, me doing hers, play dates, bar-b-q’s, and nights out on the town. But the end of this summer has been crazy, and we haven’t gotten together in this last month more than once.

About a month ago we took the kids to the pool. Her and I did our favorite thing- people watching, while the kidos swam in the water, and the sun.

As we chatted, another girl we went to ‘hair school’ with came to say hello to us. One of her first questions to my friend was, “Have you lost weight?”

I shot her a look. Had she lost weight?

“Ya.” She answered reserved. *not one for this kind of attention*

‘Oh, great.’ I thought. ‘What kind of friend am I?? I hadn’t even noticed.’

When we were alone again the questions started.
“How much have you lost?” I asked.

“About 20lbs.”

“Wow, that’s great. How are you doing it?”

“I just eat 1200 calories a day and I try to walk more.”

“How long have you been doing that?”

“About a month and a half.”

“Wow. I feel like crap. I didn’t even notice.”

“I didn’t want anyone to know I was doing anything.”

I new that. She doesn’t like that kind of attention.

“Plus, I haven’t really dropped any cloth sizes, and I feel like I've plat-toed.”

Later that week, we went on a double date. J-rod and I got there early and waited for them at our table. As I saw them approaching I watched her. I could now tell she had lost weight. She did look good.

Well, then life happened we went from then until this last weekend without seeing each other just chatting on the phone a couple times a week.

When she came to Belles B-Day party I saw her walking to where we were sitting at the park.

Wow.

I couldn’t believe how good she looked.

Ya, she’s lost 40LBS now! Not bad for 3 months!

Well, I guess I better get that diet book out and dust it off. I don’t want to be ‘the fat friend’. Hey, whatever it takes for motivation right?

The Government Can!!

2009-09-04T09:09:00.001-06:00

I haven’t gotten political on my blog before. I know plenty who use their blogs for political soap boxes. Me, not so much. I think my admitted endearment to Glenn Beck might suggest to which end politically I tend to lean. I haven’t, as of yet, felt the need to express my opinions/beliefs/views on such a public forum, (I’m not private… yet) however, that might change.

I saw this video today. I had to post it. LOVE IT.

I know, I’m bragging part 2

2009-08-08T16:21:00.006-06:00

Well, I decided to go to Albertsons, Carter was at a friend’s house, and it was just Belle and me. (Not that this particular situation makes my trial easier, but I had some gumption.)

So I went coupon binder in hand, with Belle happily sucking on a sugar filled sucker. I first walked down the produce aisle and then up the next aisle. Yep, I made it that far before I about had a heart attack and walked back out of the store again. I drove to my mom’s house, broke down, regrouped, came up with a new strategy, and even printed off some coupons.

Armed with new fervor, leaving the kids at home (Belle was down for a nap) I headed back to the store. I’m sure I looked like a freshman on the first day of high school, wide eyed, and ready for the big bully to jump out at me at any moment. But I did it! I was so excited! I said a little prayer that I would get a good/ patient cashier, and headed to the check out aisles.

Well having such a good trip something was bound to happen right? I start loading my food up on the round table, and then... I couldn’t find my coupons I had printed out. What good is it being a KCL (Krazy Coupon Lady) if you don’t have any coupons!

-Insert near melt down here-

Thinking I must have dropped them somewhere I was ready to walk off to find them. The room began to spin everything got blurry, and I couldn’t focus. Not an ideal state when you are trying to look for something. The cashier was so cute. She came over to my cart, and sweetly in the way mom’s have a certain knack of doing to calm their children down told me, “It’s o.k. calm down we’ll find them.” Reassured by her compassion, I was able to calm down and find said coupons in a folder in my binder.

Now, the check-out process is why I prayed for a good/ patient cashier. You see, KCL’s like me tend to be inconvenient- breaking up purchases into different transactions to maximize savings (I could write a whole other post on that too), and of course all the coupons. My cashier- as you could probably guess- was a DREAM come true! She was so helpful for a newbie like me, and seemed to know what I wanted before I could even tell her. She even helped me with things I didn’t know about.

The result- Total= $184.55

Out of pocket- $52.55

Saved= $132.00

I know that others save MUCH more than this, but the goal is to save more than you spend. I’d say I did that.

Jarrod was so proud he helped me set everything up for my bragging picture.

Now, I did forget to use some of my doubler coupons (not a biggie, I can use them later) and found out how to use other coupons to save more. So this would have been a bigger savings had I done those two things, but I was totally stoked for this being my first time! Jarrod even let me splurge on a new binder that I have been coveting (“All the other girls on the blogs have them!!”- was my reasoning)

I’ll show you...

Of course it’s pink! I found a new love for highlighters. They really work! I don’t have my calculator yet, but that’s soon to come. The inside Files for store ads Baseball protectors work good. I saw some other ladies with picture sized protectors, but Jarrod and Carter had extra of the baseball variety, so that’s what I used. (When I get some more money I’m going to get the picture sized, less cutting/ scrunching.)And my dividers for my different categories

I’m going again Monday. Whish me luck!!
And a personal ‘Thank you’ to Amy and Teresa I couldn’t have done it without all your help and tips!!

Here are some of my favorite sites that helped me with it:
The Krazy Coupon Lady
Pinching Your Pennies
The Obsessive Shopper

I know, I’m bragging part 1

2009-08-07T18:21:00.006-06:00

I don’t know how many of you know, but I suffer from anxiety more specifically ‘social anxiety’. The worst possible place for me? The store. I am HORRIBLE at the store. I rarely have a good day when it comes to me going to the store.

The result: Me (usually with the kids) walking aimlessly trying to remember what I wanted to buy, grabbing random objects- very much impulse- before giving up and heading to the check-out isles, and spending too much money on things we don’t need. It doesn’t sound so bad, but I literally can not think coherently. (I was recently informed this is a side affect to Adult A.D.D.)

The solution: Usually I have to go to the store alone (strange for a stay @ home mom) or with someone else. Neither make it easy, but it helps.

Well, recently I have heard about ‘couponing’. Similar to coupon cutting our mothers are familiar with. O.k. it’s the same thing, nothing new just becoming more popular... with a vengeance. Think ‘Black Friday shopping’-ish. O.k. not really, but these women are CRAZY! --I digress. I have desperately wanted to do this since I’ve heard about it. You know, doing what I can to contribute to the family budget. But for the problem stated above, I have been putting it off, slowly getting information and getting up the courage.

Well today I went.

The end.

Oh, you want to hear more? Well, I want to tell you! But save I write a novel here and now, I’m going to finish my story and post it tomorrow. But here’s a teaser...

See you tomorrow!

And I lived to tell you about it.

2009-07-17T08:48:00.003-06:00

(I know a little dramatic)
I can’t believe how fast Carter is growing up. He is only a few inches shorter than me. I can’t say ‘he’s at my shoulder’ or ‘he’s to my chin’. He’s bigger than that. He’s about to my cheek bone?

Thinking back on my life I realize that most of his memories are going to start from this time in his life. So I want to do some things worth remembering with him.

With that in mind a few weeks ago I remembered that the new Harry Potter was coming out. In my 28 years I haven’t been to the midnight showing of anything. (but in all those 28 years I’ve never really had a desire to- 1:00 the next afternoon suits me just fine) But I thought to myself ‘Carter might like that.’ And isn’t that what parenting is about? Doing things for your kids.

So I went... two days early... to get our Harry Potter tickets. As I waited patiently for my turn I realized that only two people in line were actually buying tickets for that day’s shows. What show were the rest buying tickets for? Harry Potter. (I know you are all thinking I’m quite naive.)

Mr. Ticket Seller Man informed me that I would want to be AT LEAST and hour early. ‘No prob.’, I thought. Growing up with my mom, we were always at least a half hour early. ‘What’s an hour? I’ll just bring a book.’

Well, we did show up an hour and 3 minutes early and what did we see??? A line coming out of the theater (for all those who know what theater I’m talking about you can imagine) all the way to the fence by the freeway. And did it stop there? No, fallowed the fence aaallll the way back around the whole entire parking lot to the very first entrance.

Now I was feeling very naive. Questions ran through my head. Was this the line to get into the movie? Was this the line for people buying tickets? Who do we ask? Should I drop Carter off and go park? That one I decided quickly. No, we needed to stay together, but I didn’t want to go all the way to the theater just to find out I needed to go to the back of the line. The only option was to park, and find out. We had to park in the Shopko parking lot. From there we decided to go about the half way spot in the line and ask someone.

This is where my little man made me proud. He took the bull by the horns squared his shoulders and went to go ask someone. As he was walking off (I was fallowing him but he was determent to do this I could tell) I told him to ask a grown-up. That in itself would be a trick, because at that particular spot in line there wasn’t an adult in sight.

Then out of no where -it seemed- came two workers with their little vest on. Carter and I saw them about the same time, but before I could call ahead to him he was already off to catch the two workers that were walking as if their bums had been on fire. He actually had to run backwards in front of them before he could get their attention.

From the short exchange we found out.
-this is the line for Harry Potter. (du)
-this is the line for people who have already bought tickets. (that had started at about 8pm that night)
-Harry Potter sold out at 6pm that day
-we would have to get in the back of the line.

But then they (the workers) stopped. ‘Is it just the two of you?’ the female usher asked. We told her it was. ‘Do you want to get in right now?’ You see they were filling one theater at a time, and had a few seats in one of the theaters to fill before they started filling another one. “You would have to sit in the front row.” She informed us.

This had me stumped. When I was a kid I could probably have handled the front row. In fact I think I did. Not sure, I turned to Carter. ‘o.k.’ he was all for it, front row and all. Still unsure I looked back at the girl who reminded me if we didn’t we would have to go to the end of the line and chance not even being able to sit together. So I agreed. This was all in all for Carter, and if he was o.k. with it so would I be.

We then were ushered passed ALL of the line like V.I.P. Past everyone’s wondering gazes of aw that we were being let in before them. (I know, probably in my head) She then showed us which theater we were to go in.

We entered what sounded to be more like a high school gymnasium than a movie theater and we looked for our seats. I was surprised that there were so many available seats in the front section. We asked anther usher and he informed us that we could sit anywhere there was an open seat because no one was being allowed to save seats. And what did we find? On the third row two seats. All by themselves flanked on either side with open spaces for wheal chairs. Perfect.

Yep, that’s right. We didn’t even have to stand in line. (oh and the movie was REALLY good)

She’ll be comin’ ‘round the mountain when she comes. Whoot Whoot!!

2009-06-18T14:00:00.003-06:00

We all have one of these, right? When we are cooking in the kitchen, hurried trying to appease the ravaging beasts (ya, I mean beasts. Have you seen my kids when they are hungry?? Beasts.) least I be their meal. -o.k. it’s not that bad, but it makes for some crazy chaos.

The other night I was cooking dinner. I usually am all over the kitchen, going to the fridge, or to the pantry, then to chop something on this counter, or over to the other cupboard to get a measuring cup. Belle is usually right under foot for the whole process asking, “What are you looking for, Mommy? What’s that for, Mommy? Can I see, Mommy?”

But on this particular day I was mostly at the stove, and the one counter by it fixing dinner with my back to the fridge. I hadn’t really even noticed Belle's absence. I just assumed she was with her dad in the other room. When I did turn around, what did I find?

She was singing a cute little song to go with it. Something like, ‘This is my train’ over and over. She likes to line things up, and she always calls it ‘her train’. What can I say we are a Rail-Road family.

About 4 months ago...

2009-06-17T18:50:00.005-06:00

Me- “Hun, have you seen Belle’s new shirt.” Asked while searching through every nook and cranny in the house.

Him- “What new shirt?” I think he has permanent amnesia, or this is just a tactic to get out of helping me look for a shirt because he ‘doesn’t know’ what it looks like.

Me- “The one on sale at K-Mart for $4. It’s long sleeved and has princesses on the front.” I especially liked it because of it’s long sleeves, since it was winter at the time. “I remember she was playing with the new cloths I got her, but I can’t find that one.”

Him- “I haven’t seen it. Did you look in her room or in her toys?”

Oh, ya! (note sarcasm) Her room, or with her toys! Why hadn’t I thought of that????

That was about the extent of that conversation.

I was starting to think I was crazy. ‘Did I even buy it?’ I wondered. I remembered worrying about the white front and how Belle is stain prone, maybe I decided not to get it.

Fast-forward to yesterday.

Belle was playing with a collapsible cooler we have in our pantry. It has a strap, you see, there for it must be a purse for Belle- I’m sure is her thinking. Walking by her disarray on the floor my eye catches something pink and white from inside the cooler. Her shirt that is long sleeved.

Perfect for the middle of June right?

Here are some pictures of her in her new shirt. (because I know Grandma likes them... and because I think she is cute.)

Ya, I’ve been trying something new with her hair. But because it’s like mine, we have to round brush it and flat iron it, like mine. She’s really is good about it all.

Whoever said dieting was easy??

2009-06-11T12:59:00.002-06:00

Oh, I’m not talking about the food restrictions, or the hunger pains, or crankiness due to the previous ailments.

No, I’m talking about the other struggles. Like trying to wrestle around my 2yo so ‘mommy can have a turn on the tramp’. Or listening to her cry for the 20min I’m on said tramp because she wants to jump with me and I wont let her.

Or when I sit down to eat my premeasured amount of food for lunch that I’m REALLY excited to eat and again the 2yo is there wanting to eat every bite with me, and I don’t have the heart to turn her away because it doesn’t hurt for her to eat a little more healthy.

Or when I fix dinner for the kids, and myself. Mine being the dry tuna sandwich on whole wheat bread with steamed broccoli on the side, and they don’t want theirs, they want mine, so instead of eating I have to go make more when I’m STARVING!

And that was all just yesterday, the first day!

Oh, and read my post on another blog I write at for more about my diet!

Ahhhh, sunshine.

2009-05-21T20:56:00.011-06:00

It feels good after this long winter. Today the was a perfect day warm, with just a little wind that kept the heat down. I woke up itching to do something outside. After looking around at some photography blogs, I also got an itch to be creative with my camera.

So, I took my-not so willing- children and forced them to pose- and hold still- and smile. After about 45 min. we were all ready to be done, and I swore off ever using children as photography victims again. (ya right- these guys are free).

Feel free to give criticism- constructive criticism. If you don’t comment, I will automatically assume you think my kids are ugly. (ya, occasional blackmail is healthy) That includes you, random stubble-er upon my blog, and you too Mack.

I feel the pounds shedding off already!

2009-05-06T23:46:00.001-06:00

This is my new work out routine!!!!
The funniest part is at the end, so watch it all!

HILARIOUS!!!!!!!!

I know I’m pathetic. sigh.

2009-05-03T09:25:00.003-06:00

Well, this isn’t an official trailer, it’s a ‘fanmade’ but I’m so excited right now I don’t care. It is really good though.

Good Old Comfort Food.

2009-04-27T23:25:00.002-06:00

We have a favorite in out family ‘Swedish Pancakes’. Some might call them crapes, my mom grew up on the ‘Jinni -Lynn’s’ variety. But my dad came home from his mission with the ‘Swedish Pancake’ recipe. We had them on special occasions, someone’s birthday, or when mom felt we all deserved a special treat.

Now these aren’t a healthy food, what comfort food is, right? Almost as good as the pancakes themselves are the garnishments we like to put on them. Let’s see, there is yogurt, apple sauce, fresh fruit, cool-whip, cinnamon and sugar, cinnamon syrup, and ‘white’ syrup as we call it (made of sugar, butter, and caned milk... yes more sugar.) But the all time favorite, most desired, and superior is/was Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup.

We had to save it to last. Our very LAST one. Once we had it on a pancake, we could not have any more. So, we would make sure we had completely gorged ourselves before we could relish and savor our last one.

I’ve tried my hand at this family favorite, and I admit it was MODERATELY successful. They were at least eatable. So I mostly leave it to my mom to share with my youngsters this indulgence. After about a week of battering, Carter was successful in wearing Nannie (the grandkids affectionately call her Nannie... a tradition in her family.) down to making him some.

We ate and had our fill. After having her last one (not a chocolate syrup one because she prefers the white syrup, probably because it has more sugar) she pushed her plate away and said. “I’m sick.”

I’m glad we can carry on the family tradition to the next generation.

I think I have a problem

2009-04-24T10:01:00.007-06:00

Aahhh... the written word. I love it on so many levels. I enjoy trying my hand at it, but mostly I love to lose myself in a good book.

Some of my favorites are the classics. ‘A tale of Two Cities’, ‘Jane Eyre’, ‘Wuthering Heights’, and ‘Count of Monte Cristo’. But more specifically I LOVE Jane Austen. I’ve read all seven of her books, and 6 biographies because I just can’t get enough. (Don’t get me started on Becoming Jane... Good movie, BUT NOT TRUE! See! I said don’t get me started!!) O.k. so I’ve read her books. Not once, not twice, but three times. Some of them like ‘Persuasion’ ‘Sense and Sensibility’, ‘Mansfield Park’, and ‘Pride and Prejudice’ closer to 6 times.

This you can imagine is VERY time consuming. It’s not easy reading and say... doing the dishes, or folding laundry, or vacuuming.So what have I resorted to? Buying the movies, DUH.

I slip one of those DVD’s in and BAM! I can get house work done, AND get my ‘fix’. The saying is true “the book was better than the movie.” But hey, a chocolate lover doesn’t turn down a Snickers Bar because it’s not a turtle cluster.My latest need?? Twilight. Which I am waiting patiently for Netflix to send me... o.k. not so patiently. But it’s not enough!! I want it all NOW. Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn! NOW!! Sigh. Well, until then, I’ll just have to be satisfied with the Youtube videos... oh, my sister does have the books on CD.

Poppin' our brains??

2009-04-19T14:35:00.006-06:00

Jarrod's aunt sent this to me via e-mail.

Pop corn

How safe ARE cell-phones!?

She works hard for her money

2009-04-16T23:02:00.000-06:00

Belle: shoot. Shoot. Shoot. (Saying this over and over walking around the room)

Me: What’s wrong?

Belle: (hesitating) Uh, My pocket.

Me: What’s in your pocket? (Looking to see that she doesn’t have any)

Belle: My money

Me: Where did you get money?

Belle: (thinking) Um, Wal-mart.

I almost forgot!!

2009-04-13T17:01:00.006-06:00

Well, not really. I remembered almost every day. Especially when I would be straining, trying to think of things to blog about. It was always in the back of my mind. My main excuse? Nary a picture. Well, none that turned out. So I got went to my ever dependent friend Google.

Our new (new to us) 2002 Kia Sedona. This is our first new (new to us) vehicle since my 1997 Hyundai Accent I have driven since Carter was knee-high to a grass hopper. We love it.
Lets do a looky through -I know you are all dying to...This is the interior. Pretty self explanatory. Power everything, duel sliding doors, the kids get their own seats. Both were a must for me.

This is where I add that our van is an Ex. The upgrade from the more common Lx. So we have a few more extras, including the wood panel kit. I’m not crazy about it, but I guess it’s an upgrade. One of my favorite things is the back seats. If you look close there are little hooks that are on the backs of the seats. They are to hold grocery bags, so you can put the heavy stuff on the floor, and the light things like bread and eggs on the hooks, and you don’t have to worry about them getting smashed. The other thing I like is that you can remove just one seat from the back row to give you a little extra cargo room.

And all the seats come out. Not fold away, but at least they come out one at a time if you don't want them all out.

So, that’s our van, complete with the family sticker on the back window.

Total upgrades? Our children don’t have to contort to fit in their seats. We have ‘cargo room’. Air conditioner. A radio that plays FM as well as AM so I can listen to my boyfriend Glenn Beck while driving around town (oh, and a CD player too). Cruse control. Windshield washer that actually sprays fluids. (yea clean windows!) Enough room between Jarrod and I so that our shoulders are no longer touching. 10 cup holders (we only use four- obviously) New tires. Rear heating and cooling. And enough cargo room to get all our stuff to Red Fish!!!

I didn't remember this one...

2009-04-01T23:18:00.003-06:00

I was loading some pictures from my camera to the computer, and came across this video I forgot I had.
(I took it the same day as the last one.)

My kids are funny too!

2009-03-18T19:51:00.002-06:00

I’ve seen on other blogs proud parents bragging about the funny things their kids say. I often think, “oh, how cute... my kids are funny. Why can’t I ever remember what they say to blog about it.”

Then it hit me. I should write these things down when they say it! As an aspiring author I’m a little ashamed it took me this long to come up with it, since I’m often rummaging for a scrap of paper to remember a thought or clever line I want to include in my current of future novels.

So, with this plan set in mind, I kept my ears perked and pen ready, and I’ve got one! Yes only one, but this is a new idea mind you.

Yesterday when I got Belle up from her nap she had wet her bed. Not a big deal... everything is washable, even her. As we were pealing off her cloths to put her in the bath I was trying to do what I read, and not show disappointment, but teaching her that wetting her pants is gross.

Me: “Eewww! Pee-pee is gross. Princesses don’t like gross pee-pee in their pants!” yes I do talk baby talk with her some-times!

Belle: “Pee-pee not gross, pee-pee WARMMM!!

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!!

2009-03-17T11:06:00.002-06:00

We had Spaghetti for dinner last night, and found Belles new favorite word. Enjoy!

AND THAT WAS THAT!!

2009-03-09T01:25:00.004-06:00

Well, I’m excited to announce Belle is FINALLY potty-trained! I got some great advice from friends and family, but nothing seemed to work. It didn’t ‘click’ for her.

I read this e-book ‘3 Day Potty Training'. I was a little skeptical. Hmmm... ‘three day’s?’ I thought. Then I remembered the shrinking quantity of diapers she had on her changing table. I didn’t want to have to by ANOTHER pack. I had already been thinking of bribing her with ‘Princess’ underwear. ‘Wouldn’t it be more cost efficient to by some underwear with that money instead of MORE diapers?’

Day one was mildly effective. She didn’t have any accidents in the morning save one, and she woke up wet from her nap. But by the end of the day, she had 3 or 4 accidents before bed. My hopes that she would make it through the night were pretty non-existent.

To my surprise she woke up dry! I started to think this might be working. One of the suggestions was to not express disappointment or frustration when they do have accidents. This was new to me... I had read that it was important to show disappointment/ disapproval. Instead it instructs you to say, ‘Ewe. Yuck.‘ and let them know it’s gross to have soiled pants.

Day two was going rather well, but then it became Nap Time. I prepared myself for the likelihood of her waking up wet. But she woke dry again! And the rest of the day she stayed dry.

By day three she had been dry for nearly 20 hrs. and we haven’t had an accident since.

So it only took me a day and a half to train her! I call it a success. I think the benefit (other than the obvious) is the fact that it was the best experience I’ve ever had with potty training.

The test though came Saturday (what would be day four). We had gone over to a friends’ house for the evening, and I had forgotten to bring an extra pair of pants and underwear- just in case. I was nervous all night, but without event. She did great.

If you know Belle, you know she is not quiet. Now she will yell, “I gah go potty!” as she runs to the bathroom. I don’t think I will ever stop thinking that is cute.

Camo the pup

2009-02-09T00:11:00.003-07:00

Oops. I promised Mariam and Lizzy I would blog about this a few days ago!

We got a new puppy. We decided to get Carter his first dog as a Christmas present. He is a ‘Pom-Chi’ a Pomeranian- Chihuahua hybrid. Carter was so excited he almost cried. We named him Camo Bear (‘Camo’ as in camouflage, and ‘Bear’ because Carter had picked out the name ‘Camo’ for his first dog, but when we got Camo, he looked just like a bear cub, and still does. So instead of changing the name we added to it.) Well, it’s been roughly two months, and he is essentially my dog. But that’s o.k. he’s a cutie.

Belle really likes to crawl into bed with him. She thinks it’s her kennel too. They really are partners in crime. She lets him out any chance she gets… and then they run for it.
Don’t feel too sorry for him, he’s gotten to be clever, and he can hold his own.

On with Belle!

2009-02-03T15:37:00.002-07:00

You know I wanted to blog about this the most right? Not really. I love talking about Belle and all, just not when she’s hurt.

I’m a klutz. I’ve blogged about it here before. I’m used to it. I get mad, mostly annoyed, and some times even laugh. O.k. well, mostly laugh. Have you heard the blood curdling screams that come out of my mouth when I fall? I have, you would laugh too. If you heard it you would think I was being thrown from the top of cliff, instead of tipping over a wrinkle in the carpet, or a missed step.

So, yes after such occasions, I do laugh at myself. But this time I couldn’t. I don’t think I have ever been so mad at myself because of an accident before.

The other day my mom and I were out scurrying around town trying to finish the last few touches for Janice’s shower. Mom had dropped Belle and me off at our house and we waved from the driveway, as Belle must do to all her fair-going friends. Turning then to go in the house and finish getting ready, my foot twisted in my shoe and thus twisting my ankle sending Belle and I to the ground.

I’m a little more accustomed to these sorts of falls, and have a kind of expertise in landings. Belle? Not so much. I’m sad to say she went down because I went down and I was holding her hand.

She fell hitting her mouth on the driveway (for those of you who have seen said driveway know it is an accident waiting to happen). I picked her up and ran with her into the house. I was sobbing at this point, and took her to Jarrod to have him help me evaluate the damage.

There was a lot of blood, and we couldn’t get a good view of things. And who does one call when in distress? Their mother. So I called mine.

Now my parents and their phones... where should I start? (my siblings are groaning with me right now) Well, they like to turn off their phones for relaxation or an afternoon cat nap. Hey, I can’t blame them, but the problem comes when they forget to turn the phones back ON for DAY’S! Examples? O.k. My dad will turn the phone off so that it won’t wake my mom while she is napping (very kind, sweet husband) and then he goes to work the next day, forgetting to turn on the phones.

And then everyone and their dog are trying to call her and no one can get through. Mom is at home thinking “this is so nice to have peace and quiet” Or “why hasn’t anyone called me for days? Doesn’t anyone love me?” (more the first than the last) And then I’m required to go in and check on mom by the rest of the family to make sure she hasn’t fallen or some other catastrophe. Not that I mind checking on her, I just know that she is just fine, and probably secretly knows that my dad has turned off the phone and is enjoying her solitude.

Don’t even get me started on their cell phones!!

Back to Belle. I ran to the phone to require of my moms assistance, and what did it do? Ring... and ring... and ring. Did I mention they don’t have voice mail?
And ring... and ring... and ring. Finally, “Hello?” She asks unknowingly.

“Why don’t you ever answer your phone?!” I yell at her.

“What’s wrong?”

“Belle” -sob - “tooth” mumble mumble “lip” sob- mumble “bleeding”.

“I’ll be right there.” She assures me, and I begin to calm down.
Little did I know she didn’t understand a word I said. It made sense in my head!

Mom wasn’t able to get a good look both when she got there, and proceeded to call our dentist -who is also our bishop -who happened to be driving by our street when Mom called his cell. He came and evaluated and prescribed, and all was made well, except my tender feelings that were distraught at the thought of Belle’s wound being caused by me being a klutz.

The pictures don’t do it justice. I think her lip was about twice this size.

And then about a week later her lip was almost completely healed in time for Zac’s wedding. All you could see was a little shadow were the scar was.

Zac and Janice

2009-02-03T15:24:00.002-07:00

Well, you all want to hear about Zac’s Wedding. It was a whole bunch of things… least of all, I cried like a baby.

But… I don’t have any pictures of it- the wedding ATM (At The Moment) except of this one I swiped from Rachel facebook, so I will blog more on that subject later.

I know you all want to throw stones at me, thinking that I tricked you to come all the way over here with a little teaser such as that, but don’t throw stones… you will break your computer!! ;)

O.k. I’ll give in… un petite.

2009-01-24T14:00:00.001-07:00

I’ll tell you my random thought on the Obama Administration…

Well, have you heard about the Mayan calendar?

It says the end of the world will be in 2012…

The last year of the Obama administration
(insert eye roll here)

Like I said, RANDOM thought.

Where to start…

2009-01-23T20:30:00.001-07:00

Well, it’s been a bit! I want to say ‘thank you’ to all of you who have hunted me down with other forms of communication to tell me that you’ve missed my blog. And to those who weren’t so nice, ‘Alright, alright!!’

So this time, I’m going to try something different. If you look to the side of my blog (on the left) there is a survey go ahead and take it to let me know what you want me to post about next.

Two things...

2008-12-12T21:41:00.008-07:00

Thing one...

Belle met Santa, again this year. Her encounter with him from last year was not uncommon. She cried like... well... a baby.

Last year...

This year...

She closes in on Santa, seeing that he is giving out sugar. That might make it worth getting closer to the scary man.
Still not sure of him, but at least she has the sugar. (She is a skeptical sarcastic toddler in my head, but that wouldn’t give you any insight to me)

She gives in, and expertly delivers her ‘cheeeeeese’ pose that she has perfected. All is well, as long as Dad is near... and she’s not on Santa’s’ lap.

Thing two...

I added a new element to my blog posts, and as long as I loaded it right (fingers crossed) you can leave quick comments about my post. But DO NOT feel like this is adequate to leaving a comment! Just an added ego stroke so I am reminded how much you all love and appreciate me. So, check it out, and let me know if it’s not working.

...O.k. I can’t seem to figure it out. I’ve seen it on a few other blogs, so if any of you could help me add it, I would greatly appreciate it!! xoxoxo

I MET MY BOYFRIEND!!!

2008-12-09T20:24:00.007-07:00

I could not be any happier right now! I’m on cloud nine. I feel just like I’ve gotten back from a first date with the cutest boy in school. O.K. not really. But I am excited, I met my ‘boy friend’ (as I like to call him) Glenn Beck.

He was in our town tonight doing a book singing for his new book “The Christmas Sweater”. I didn’t really care. I would have gone if he was signing toilet paper rolls, but I bought the book. I’m all for supporting him. ;) This is how it went down.

I learned he was signing books from 6pm -to 7pm at Deseret Book. I had just got in town from a trip where we had been gone for a few days. I was tired, and cantankerous, and not feeling presentable to the public. I actually decided to not go. I was drained, the kids were cranky, and the hubby wanted food... then I changed my mind. This is after all Glenn Beck. (I know you are all rolling your eyes at me. I know.)

We get to the mall at 6:05 and what do we see? A line that wraps not just in front of the store in one of those snaky rope things, but all the way down the hall, and all the way down another hall. For those who know where I’m talking about it went for D-Book all the way down to the Party Palace (formerly Macy’s) and worked its way back up that hall toward Vanity.

My husband gives me THE LOOK. All you ladies know what I’m talking about. The ‘Are you really serious?’ look. The ‘You have got to be kidding me, but if you are serious I’ll do it, but I’m expecting this to go towards brownie points *wink, wink*’ look. Ya, you know what I’m talking about.

Belle and I waiting in line.

The line went surprisingly fast. I overheard the DB workers saying he is known to sign 800 to 1,400 books in an hour. Whew, I was around 790 in line. 6:30 came, and I was in front of the store, not heading in the store just reaching the snaky line part. Double whew!

There were ALL SORTS of people standing next to the line, handing out flyers to their own stores with special discounts. There was even a worker from Pretzel Time handing out free Pretzel Bites (that did help with the cranky kids). There was one particular smart business men that had boards with some of Glenn’s (yes, we are on a first name basis in my head) most famous quotes in vinyl lettering. “Have Glenn Beck sign these while your there.” Was his basic pitch, and I bought. Yes, I would have bought it if it was toilet paper remember.

The quotes varied, “Awwwwww ya.” and “You sick twisted freaks.” were a few, but my favorite was, “It makes blood shoot out of my eye.” (you have to know him to appreciate all these)

Finally I get into the store, and I felt like Will Ferrell in ‘The Elf’ (which I just saw this weekend. Thanks Mack and Shaan) where he is in the department store “SANTAAAAAAAA!!! I know him!!!” Yes, it took all the control I could muster to stay calm enough to take a picture. So J-rod did the honors. He did rather well, considering how fast they were rushing everyone.

His head and my head in the same frame. (oh, and Belle’s too.)

He shook Carter and my hands, and made a comment about Belle, but I could think was “This is really him!!”

He was very nice, and considerate. That was it, it took about 20 seconds, but I was a very happy camper afterwards!

Me oh so happy.

Here I go again!

2008-12-03T22:20:00.005-07:00

Well! That has been quite a sabbatical, right? Did y’all miss me? I realized that is has almost been a month since my last post. So much has happened. The most significant being the passing of my dear sweet Nannie (my grandma on my mother’s side). More of that to come in another post that I’m working on, but I’m finishing a few touches. On a happier note...

Carter’s school was doing school pictures. How we do this is we all meet at the specific location, and they have a professional company come, like the sort that come to a regular public school (only better) and the kids get their pictures taken. Last year this worked out great, but the package we ordered was the cheapest and it was $27 and it didn’t include any 8’ by 10’ (my must have size). Though, I could have purchase one for $8 more. The kicker was we didn’t know what the prices would be until we got to the meeting place.

So this year, I found the prices in advance, and the package I wanted was $40. That includes all the sizes I want AND 50,000 wallets that just get thrown away. So, money being tight, I decided to take Carter out and take some pictures myself. And if I didn’t like any, I could always take him to Wal-Mart right?

I liked how they turned out. Some of the background might look familiar.

You know you are in a rail-road family when you think that train tracks are appropriate backdrop.

His ‘paparazzi’ picture. He is creative and can be very animated, can you tell?

Very VERY amateur, but a fun day non-the-less.

2008-11-10T22:29:00.008-07:00

I offered to take Zac and Janice’s engagement pictures, suggesting if there weren’t any they liked they could go elsewhere, and I wouldn’t be offended. They obliged me.

We set out last Saturday and took 160+ pictures. We had a lot of fun, and laughs. I’m so excited to have Janice as my new sister. She was so fun to take pictures of and is very photogenic... oh, and Zac is o.k. too. ;) They are such a cute couple. And are so in love. It is hard to not have a good time with these two.

Here are some of my favorites...

Of course what would any day be without Zac... being Zac?

Zac pondering whilst Janice gets primped by my assistant (or as I like to call her “Mom”)At least she thinks he is funny. (Just kidding Zaccy Poo)Zac climbing.

"I can't belive she said yes!"

Zac climbing again.
He had to be silenced. But we got the ring in the picture!!

Only for us Lazies.

2008-11-03T15:00:00.006-07:00

J-rod spoils me. When it comes to birthdays, forget it. I think we have celebrated maybe two out of the five birthdays I’ve had since we have been together. But he loves to buy me presents for no apparent reason... and, hey I’ll take it... er them.

Well, last Friday was our ‘Anniversary’. I know, I know, you are asking, “What?! I thought you were married in December!!” (even though I’m sure none of you really remembered that, I still hear you asking.) Yes, we were married in December. The 20th for that matter, but J-rod proposed on Halloween. This year he decided to ‘celebrate’ that fact with a little dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant Signor Iguanas, and a gift from ‘Bed Bath and Beyond’. This is my new treasure.

It is a hot cocoa maker. All you do is add water or milk, and your cocoa mix, and viola!! It heats and mixes it for you. About 6 minutes later you have steaming hot chocolate. One of the best features is that if you leave the appliance on, it keeps the drink hot and stired in the dispenser. There is even a “froth” button so that you can have a nice layer of foam at the top.

He got this on Friday, but I didn’t break it out until yesterday after church. And we were all consequently sick after indulging ourselves in more than one cup.

I love it.

Taggeged

2008-10-29T10:03:00.002-06:00

Hmm... I haven’t done this one, but I edited it. (Forgive me canwin) ;)

What are 5 things on my to do list today?
1. Carter’s Schoolwork
2. Clean the house
3. Put dinner in the crock-pot
4. Look presentable for Visiting Teachers
5. Keep children alive

What are my 5 favorite snacks? (in no particular order)
1. Pretzels
2. Salt Water Taffy (and I’m not above taking it out of my children’s bags after the parade)
3. Oreo's and milk
4. Bananas—really!
5. Anything salty and crunchy out of a bag.

What 5 things would I do if I were a millionaire? (not that I’ve EVER thought of this, or had late night conversations with my husband so that we would know EXACTLY what we would do incase of this)
1. Pay off Student loans (our only debt)
2. By a large house. (We live in Idaho, we can do that and not even spend half of the money... I know you are jealous)
3. By furniture for said house
4. Buy new cars.
5. Put the rest under the mattress... or invest it... depending on the stock market.

5 places I have lived:
1. Idaho
2. Then Beaver, Ut.
3. To Ogden
4. Back to Idaho again.
5. Salt lake, then back to Idaho.

5 jobs I have had:
1. Telemarketing (for about a month)
2. Taco Bell (for two hours)
3. D.I. (stayed there for a while)
4. Ballard- As a supervisor (stayed there for a long while)
5. Cosmetologist

5 people I tag:
1. Rachel
2. Mariam
3. Amanda H. (you know who you are!!)
4. Lisa
5. Teresa T
(I know you are ALL thrilled! XOXOXO)

And I got to be there!!

2008-10-18T14:26:00.005-06:00

Zac has been dating this cute girl, Janice for a few months. Well, he decided that she is ‘The One’ and went and got a ring. Here he is, one in love man, and a hot ring in his hand. He had something cute planed, but decided he couldn’t wait. He got up early this morning to drive to her home-town about 1 ½ hours away to ask for her fathers permission as any chivalrous man would do.

On his way out there, he called me at 8:00 this morning. “I just can’t wait. I think I’ll do it today.”

“You’re not going to do what you had planed?”

“No, it’s too far away, and I have so much I want to talk to her about. I can’t wait anymore.”

“Well, talk to her dad first. And then come back here. I’ll think of something cute for you to do... don’t do anything rash.”

“You have an hour.”

So I racked my brain trying to think of something –last minute- that would be worth remembering for a lifetime. No pressure, right? (I do this to myself, you know)

About an hour later...
“I’m done!” he announces, and then proceeds to tell me how well he was received by his soon to be in-laws. (But honestly NO ONE need worry how ZAC would be received by any parents)

“When will you be back in town?”

“About 10:00.”

“That’s when the parade starts.” Janice was going with the kids and me to our local Homecoming Parade -the biggest parade of the year in our town (she had no idea what Zac was up to... he kept it all hush hush) “Wouldn’t it be cool if you could get someone in the parade to hand her the ring and say, ‘isn’t this yours?’’

“... Where does the parade start at?”

He from there called Dad. Dad, you see, knows everything about our town, and was the ideal person to call for such an emergency.

We then met up with Zac waiting for the parade to start. He told us what he had planned, and we waited for Janice to arrive, and the parade to start.

When the time came, this ever helpful Rodeo Queen stopped the parade behind her once she saw Zac. Got off her horse, and came across the street to Janice, handed her the ring and said, “I think this belongs to you.”
Zac got down on his knee if front of the whole crowed that by now had gathered, and proceeded to ask Janice to marry him, with the accompaniment of the crowds’ cheers, screams and hollers. They then hugged and kissed. A curious bystander shouted, “What’s her answer?!”

“She said ‘Yes’!” Zac announced. The crowed went wild again, and the Rodeo Queens proceeded on with the parade.
The happy couple.

Our Little Man...

2008-10-17T07:40:00.002-06:00

C.J. is growing up right before our eyes. A few months ago I marveled at how he was to my shoulder, now he is above my chin. Sometimes I have to remind myself to not gape, as I see the young man he is unfolding to be. When J-rod and I started dating he would affectionately call C.J. ‘Little Man’. After we got married, C.J. retorted calling J-rod, ‘Big-Daddy’ (those of you who have met J-rod know this to be fitting) But more and more lately has the nick-name ‘Little Man’ become to be most accurate.

Yesterday I heard about a play that our local high school was putting on entitled ‘Our Town’. I never have had the opportunity to see this, and thought it would be fun to go see their dramatic piece while supporting a girl from our ward who was playing a part in it. J-rod isn’t much for ‘fine art’s’, he can be a good sport, unless there is a baseball game on (there was last night) I thought this would be a good opportunity to introduce C.J. into some of ‘the arts’, and give Belle and daddy some quality time... a.k.a. get myself out of the house.

So I dragged C.J. to the school auditorium. He was a little apprehensive, not knowing what to expect, but not quite kicking and screaming. (It did help that he saw his neighborhood crush Makena in the foyer before the show) There was one inquiry about the length of the play, an impromptu informative display to our neighbors about the details of ‘Ironman’s’ suit and uniqueness of his weapons during the intermission, and a lot of fidgeting in his seat (understandably for being shorter than the boy in the seat in front of him, and having to move back and forth to see the stage), but I felt for his first high school play he behaved himself quite honorably.

He was quite as we headed to our car, not really talking much as we said goodbye to our friends. This isn’t odd because of his shyness, it was when we got in our car that I was surprised. We chatted for a bit on the ride home, when I detected a break in his voice. He became overcome with emotion at the moral of ‘Our Town’. I thought he was glazed over for most of performance, let alone picking up on the message it was trying to convey.

“It was excellent, Mom. I’m really glad we went”, were his exact words.

The elation a mother’s heart feels at a time such is beyond lexis.

I’ve changed my mind...

2008-10-15T15:37:00.000-06:00

I would go on Wife Swap. (Those mom’s always come back appreciated)

T-T-A Time!

2008-10-14T10:47:00.002-06:00

Which reality TV show would you want to be on and why?

Well, I was so excited for this weeks T-T-A topic. One friend wrote she would be on ‘Extreme Home Makeover’, and I had an aunt and cousin that applied for ‘Survivor’, and another cousin who actually appeared on ‘American Idol’.

I think I would like to go on TLC’s ‘What Not to Wear’ because who wouldn’t want $5,000 and to go shopping for a week in NYC? Except then I think of the whole 360* mirror. And as much as I love to watch Stacy and Clinton rip to shreds the fashion offenders, safely from the comfort of my couch in my husbands sweats, I don’t think I’d like them throwing out my LBD (Little Black Dress) that I’ve been holding on to all these years trying to convince myself that ‘I’ll fit in it one day’. So, I think I will stick to what I’m comfortable with... hair.

I love doing hair. All of it, cutting, coloring, styling, and even perming. I love being able to create with my hands, and to change someone’s look in a few short hours, or even minutes. It’s not about me. It’s about the client, to make that person feel like a whole new person, to see the full potential of their hair, and beautifying one being at a time. I love showing women that style and fashion don’t have to take hours to achieve, and a great hairstyle doesn’t mean endless time in front of a mirror. Back to the topic...

For me it would have to be ‘Sheer Genius’ on the Bravo channel. Maybe even ‘Split Ends' on the Style Network, but choosing just one, I would choose ‘Sheer Genius’. Have you seen it? Stylists compete on challenges involving color, cuts, clients’ demands, up do’s, and photo shoots, all to be eliminated down to the top Stylist who wins... Well, I don’t know what the prize is. I’ve never been concerned with the prize. To win would be the prize to me!

And I even broke my shoe...

2008-10-11T21:32:00.001-06:00

Well, as testament to the fact that I am a complete and total klutz, I again fell down the stairs yesterday. I even have the scrapes and buses to prove it. That has made it all complete. I’ve fallen down the stairs at every house we have lived in. J-rod says when we move next, it can’t have stairs. But I’m not partial. I won’t only fall down the stairs of our dwelling. I’ll do it at the movie theater too... with Belle in my arms. Thank you to the mystery guy out there that flies up from his seat at lightning speed to catch women falling down the stairs with infants in their arms... J-rod thanks you too.

Oooo, tagged again!

2008-10-08T23:25:00.007-06:00

Yes! I love being tagged. I get that feeling one gets in grade school -lined up for kickball. Trying to act like I don’t care if my name was called first, but then it is! And it takes everything in me to muster the strength to not rub it in the other kid’s faces, as I walk tall to the team captain. O.K. this never happened to me as a child (or an adult for that mater), but I've contemplated it... once... or twice.

This isn’t like being ‘tagged’ like in the game ‘tag’ where you don’t want to be ‘it’. No, I like being tagged for blogging. I like having an excuse to blog. Shock I know, but it sounds better, “Sorry kids, mommy will cook dinner in a minute, I’ve been tagged. This is VERY important.”

Well, I actually wasn’t ‘tagged’ specifically, you see. It was one of those general, “Tell me your story” sort of things, and, well, I did read it, and I want to be a supporter of my fellow bloggers, so...

J-rod + Me

(Our engagement picture)

1. Where did you first meet your husband?
We met at work. He was new in the area that I worked in, but he was in a different room, so we didn’t ‘meet’ until he had been working there for a while.

2. What was the first thing you said to your husband?
We were going into the break-room at the same time, he a little ahead of me. He opened that door and held it for me staring profoundly into my eyes with his gorgeous baby blues. Love at first sight. Oh ya, the first thing I said to him was, “Thank you” meaningfully -with my flirty greens. (eyes if you didn’t know)

3. Where was your first date?
We had a rocky start with our first date. I had accidently stood him up, and he was a little bitter, but after a few weeks he forgave me, and asked me out again. He cooked Carter and me dinner at his pad.

4. Where was your first kiss?
Our first kiss was on our second date. He had taken Carter and me bowling, and then to ‘Finding Nemo’. I’m sure we ate, but I can’t remember where. Then back to my house to put Carter to bed, and we hung out on my couch watching t.v., and... first kiss. (that’s all the details you get! I do have boundaries... well, some)

5. Did you have a long or short engagement/courtship?
We dated for about four months when we got engaged. And we were engaged for 8 weeks. I’m not a big believer of long engagements, and with a decorator to take care of everything, 8 weeks seemed like forever!

6. Where did you get engaged?
Jarrod had this cute idea planned, (that I didn’t know about) to rent a costume and come to my hair-school, with balloons to propose in front of everyone (150+ girls). I had a feeling that he was going to do something public. I told him I couldn’t (and I can’t) cry in front of people, and if he did want me emotional, to not do it in front of people. So he changed his plans. We had talked about getting married, so I knew he had plans to ask, but I had no idea when he would. I came home from school on Halloween, and he was in my apartment with Journey’s ‘Faithfully’ playing in the background, balloons covered the floor, and dozens of bouquets of roses all over the room. It was prefect... who can say ‘no' with Journey playing??

7. Where did you get married?
We got married at the church house that I grew up going to. We wanted a very small event, with only close friends and family. It was beautiful and we got a steal from our decorator.

8. How did the reception go?
It was great, but such a blur! I mostly remember lots of pictures, and our first dance, and the dance with my dad... and I didn’t get anything to eat! I remember my MIL saying, “It really is so beautiful”, like she was surprised! We went to my parent’s house after, where all of my siblings were, and opened presents. It really was a great day!

9. How was the honeymoon?
It was short but excellent!! We went to Salt Lake for three days, and stayed right next to Temple Square. We did last minute Christmas shopping, and walked around Temple Square to see the lights. We also went to the Joseph Smith Memorial building and saw the ‘Atonement’, and a tour of The Beehive House (where J-rod had never been). Even though we both had lived there years before, we really got to see more of the charm of SLC. I can’t wait to do it again...hint hint, babe. ;-)

o.k. now I’m going to tag, Aunty-Em, Mary, Rachel, Mariam, Sami, Lisa, Alida, Teresa T., Melissa, Sandi, and Kristen.

I’ll be waiting!!! XOXOXOXO

T-T-A Time!

2008-10-07T22:03:00.003-06:00

Topic for Tuesday, October 7 - Celebrity Showdown
List your top five favorite celebrities and why you like them. It can be someone from the past, present, or anywhere in between.

I haven’t been very good about my Tuesday-Tell-All, so I made the extra effort to start it early this week (that’s why I’m posting at 10:00 at night). And I’ll admit that the fact that it is about celebrities was a plus. I think it would be easier for me if it was ‘five favorite celebrities to hate’ so I added that one. I could go on about that one for a while. Today’s topic has me thinking... and a little stumped so I got this idea from a fellow blogger at T-T-A because I can’t chose just five!

FIVE FAVORITE COMEDIANS
1. Kathy Griffin. I only like her edited, but I think she is hilarious.
2. Jim Carry. He has done some of the funniest movies- 'Liar, Liar' anyone?
3. Sinbad. I wish he still did standup. He cracks me up, and is always clean.
4. Bill Cosby. I think that one goes without saying.
5. Ellen DeGeneres. She can always crack me up, and she seems to be such a good person.

FIVE FAVORITE ACTORS/ACTRESSES
1. Bruce Willis, because he’s a hottie
2. Sandra Bullock, she is so funny!
3. Will Smith, he seems like a good family man, a rarity in Hollywood.
4. Shia LaBeouf, he is so funny and versatile. I think he is going to be one of the big actors of his time.
5. Johnny Depp, because he’s Johnny Depp.

FIVE FAVORITE CELEBRITIES I LOVE TO HATE (o.k. not ‘hate', but dislike very much, and it was hard to narrow it down to 5!!)
1. Martin Sheen. Good actor, but for other reasons I don’t like him
2. Susan Sarandon. Same as Sheen.
3. Madonna. All around, I don’t care for her
4. Demi Moore. Same as Madonna
5. Last but not least... GEORGE CLOONEY!!

FIVE FAVORITE PEOPLE FROM HISTORY
1. George Washington. I’ll admit I have a schoolgirl crush on him after reading ‘George Washington’- pathetic I know.
2. Abigail Adams. I declared to my family just last weekend that when I finish my book I am currently working on (woo hoot NaNoWriMo!!) I’m going to do a historical fiction on Abigail Adams. I think she is so fascinating.
3. Jane Austin. This is a whole other post in its self, but she someone I really look up to. She was very religious, and stood for what she believed... like I said another post.
4. Joseph Smith. I will be forever grateful to his faithfulness, and search for the truth.
5. My savior, Jesus Christ. Again that too goes without saying.

Happy 50th to me!!

2008-10-05T23:32:00.005-06:00

Yes, folks it is that time... my fiftieth post. I thought a good way to celebrate would to answer 50 questions you probably don’t know about me. So, here you are...

1. Apple juice or orange juice? I’m not big on juice, but if I had to choose, Apple.
2. Are you a morning or night person? Night, definitely.
3. Which do you prefer, sweet or salty foods? Salty
4. Ninjas or pirates? Pirates.
5. Ninjas vs. pirates, discuss: Ninjas are cool, but all I’m going to say is Johnny Depp.
6. Autobots or Decepticons? Du, Autobots!!
7. What was your favorite childhood television program? Hmmm... I think ‘JEM!’
8. Are you a collector of anything? Yep. I collect trinket boxes, and I’m getting back into bird houses *wink wink, sister*
9. If you could be any animal, what would you be? Cheetah (always wanted to be Cheetara on ThunderCats)
10. If you could have any superpower, what would it be? I know this is an insight to my personality, but I would have to be invisible.
11. What is usually your first thought when you wake up? ‘Carter, it’s too early...’
12. What do you usually think about right before falling asleep? ‘Why is J-rod snoring so loud?’
13. What's your favorite color? It changes between Pink Red and Purple.
14. What's your favorite animal? I don't really have one, never really put much thought into it.
15. Do you believe in extraterrestrials or life on other planets? J-rod swears he saw a U.F.O. once. I do believe in life on other planets.
16. Do you believe in ghosts? Yep.
17. Ever been addicted to a video/computer game? Which one(s)? No, I don’t think so... does facebook count? Then yes.
18. You're given 1 million dollars, what do you spend it on? I would by a house and furnish it, a new car, and invest the rest... Not that I've given it much thought.
19. Have any celebrity crushes? I think everyone knows about me and Glenn Beck... and Bruce Willis.
20. List 1 thing you wish you could change about yourself: I would like to be taller.
21. Any tattoos or piercings? Only one piercing in each ear.
22. What's the first thing you noticed about your husband? His eyes/ the way he looked at me. I can honestly say it was ‘love at first sight’ for us... corny I know, but true!
23. If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? Hmmm... Probably France. I know, I know, they hate us, but I love so much about France, and this IS hypothetical right?
24. If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go? Well, it would be a toss up between France, and England.
25. List 5 goals on your life's to-do list: (Being a good mom and wife are a given for me)
1. To be published. –I have books on the brain right now.
2. To open my own salon.
3. To travel back east. –I would like to go to Europe, but J-rod doesn’t so much, so we’ll do baby steps for now.
4. To go on a mission with my hubby.
5. To be a faithful member of my church.
26. Name 1 regret you have: Student Loans.
27. Name 1 thing you miss about being a kid: I could pull off the whole leggings look.
26. Name 1 thing you love about being an adult: I get to say, “Because I said so!”
27. What's your favorite song of all time? I don’t have A song... anything on ‘Journey’s Greatest Hits’.
28. What's your favorite thing to do on a Saturday night? Date night.
29. What's your favorite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon? Nap, or watch football. Depends on who is playing. It might be both.
30. Have any hidden talents? Probably.
31. You're about to walk the green mile, what do you have as your last meal? Black and blue sirloin stake, with alfredo pasta, and asiago cheese from Remo’s.
32. What would be your dream job? I would love to flip houses, or a fashion stylist.
33. Name 1 thing not many people know about you: I prefer red polish on my toes.
34. If you HAD to change your name, what would you change it to? I love my mom (my namesake) but she cursed me with a name that is rarely pronounced right, and having to correct people with the proper pronunciation of my name on nearly a daily basis, and then usually having to correct them more than once. I would like the name Sophia, or Elle, or Emma, or Kimber, or Ava.
35. House-hold chore you hate the most. Dishes.
36. What color is your toothbrush? Green and white.
37. When was the last time you ran? This morning. I don’t usually go on Sunday, but I had some pent up angst I wanted to get rid of.
38. Have you met anyone famous? Yes! I met Jamie Lee Curtis last year at the place we go camping every year (she is a regular there too) She told me I had ‘A beautiful baby’ referring to Belle who was on my hip at the time. I saw her husband too, and if I knew then that he was the ‘Six Fingered Man’ from ‘The Princes Bride’ I would have been more star struck I think.
39. Do you dye your hair? Is that a joke?!! I did yesterday. Actually, I guided my sis through the process, and she did it for me!
40. Are you taller than your mom? Yep! And my sister too! Just ask D-rail ;)
41. Does anything hurt on your body right now? My left calf is sore from the jog this morning.
42. Ever have stitches? Yep. I had two surgeries on my ankle when I was 12. Then when I had Carter. Then again when I had gallbladder surgery, and a hernia repaired.
43. Do you know how to use chop sticks? Yep.
44. Would you ever consider going on a reality tv show if offered a large sum of money? Yes. I would love to go on Shear Genius.
45. What’s one thing you’re really good at cooking? Chocolate chip cookies. I know, not that big a deal.
46. Name three things you bought yesterday... I didn’t buy anything yesterday, but I helped my sister buy tulle, hair color, and shoes for her daughter.
47. What's in your pocket? Belle's binky and lip gloss.
48. Who is your loudest friend? J-rod. No one could top that.
49. What’s your favorite comic strip? Calvin and Hobbs
50. Ever order an article from an infomercial? I’m bad about that. I can’t watch infomercials. I think I need it all! J-rod usually has to smack some sense into me.

10 things I love about Fall:

2008-10-02T14:09:00.003-06:00

Totally random, and in no order of importance...
1. After a blazing, stifling summer, the fall air is refreshing.
2.Fall cloths. Getting out my long pants I like to wear, sweatshirts of Jarrod’s that I acquired when we married, layers, and jackets. All without suffocating.
3. Long walks in the afternoon, and not having to wait until nighttime.
4. Crisp air in the morning when Carter and I go jogging.
5. Opening the windows to our home, to let the breeze through.
6. Fall leave garlands, scarecrows, and autumn berry wreaths
7. Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, hot apple cider, creamy soups, and candy corns!
8. Football!! Yes, you read it right. I love football thanks to an ever persistent husband.
9. The changing of the leaves. Living so close to the mountains we are able to go a short drive for breathtaking sceneries of the colorful leaves.
10. Cuddling under the blankets again.

Hmmm...

2008-09-28T20:10:00.005-06:00

O.K. guys, I’ve decided to do it, despite the butterflies. ‘What?’ you ask? Well, as you know (and if you don’t know you should read my profile) I’m writing a book. I have been for almost a year now. I love to write, I love the story I'm writing, and I love the feeling of translating this movie in my head to paper – or should I say computer. I have many of these movies, but one in particular screams in my head the loudest begging the most to be put out there. Exposed for others to read, no matter how frightening it is to me and even if the only reader is my ever-supportive sister who cheers me on begging me to write the next chapter so she can know what will happen.

I hear a sentence, no not even a whole sentence, but a fragment of a sentence, or read a line in a book, and I’m inspired to write a new conversation, or climax, or consequence in my book. That sounds a bit like plagiarism I know, but it’s sooo not like that, my fellow writing friends would agree.

For those of you who have seen ‘Becoming Jane’ the movie with Ann Hathaway playing the author, (and my ‘idol’ for lack of a better word) Jane Austen, there is one part in the movie where Lady Gresham says to her, “There seemed to be a prettyish kind of a little wilderness on one side of your lawn...” and a Jane rushes off to write this line down in her note book she always keeps with her to write down such one-liners. And as any true Austen lover knows that particular line was in one of her books ‘Pride and Prejudice’, (maybe you’ve heard of it?) delivered by the Lady Catherine de Bourgh when she dropped by Elizabeth’s home unexpectedly.

Now, I know that this was a movie, (a FICTIONAL movie at that) but this describes perfectly when I hear something. I have all sorts of one liner’s written down. Not quite as organized. I usually will write them down, and forget where I have put them. But, I was blessed with a photographic memory, and as long as I WRITE IT DOWN, I will be able to see it in my head.

Not only do I love writing, but I love research too. I love searching our immense, accommodating, intelligent internet we are blessed with, to get details just right. And I’m meticulous in this too. Searching until if feel I have it just right (I don’t know how people researched without it). I’ve decided I’m going to do a historical fiction next because I love history so much.

Well, all this doesn’t quite explain what I have declared to do. There is this group National Novel Writing Month also known as NaNoWriMo. I heard about this at the first of the year, so even though I had started my novel then, its month where everything is in full swing had past. This group helps, and encourages you to write a novel in a month. It helps to keep track of your word count, and gives advice on how to write so to finish in a month. From what I’ve learned it has you focusing on finishing the novel in the month, and to go back to edit thereafter. It has over 4,500 authors registered to its site (I'm one of them), and it’s in its 10th year of doing this.

It starts on Nov. 1st, and I’ve decided to do it. Since I have a novel already started, (well, about half way done) I might try to finish it before November, and start with a new novel, but I might just finish this one, we’ll see.

So that’s it. That’s what I’ve set my mind to do. I’ve never set a goal to ‘finish’ my book. It’s always just been ‘a work in progress’. I’m eager, I’m nervous, I’m filled with anticipation, but most of all I’m EXCITED!

Sunday... a Day of Rest?

2008-09-27T03:00:00.007-06:00

I remember when I was a teenager (a couple years ago) ;) My mom’s cousin had called to talk with my mother about family chit-chat, and I had answered the phone. (For those of my readers who know it was Fritz)

Him- “What are you doing?”

Me-“Sleeping.”

Him-“Are you sick? How long have you been sleeping?” His profession is in the medical field.

Me-“Since church got out,” this was about 6pm and church had let out at noon. “It’s Sunday, we are supposed to rest.” Thinking myself very cleaver at this, I didn’t perceive the error in my understanding. I should have saw this coming, but remember, I was a teenager... ‘nough said.

Oh, I will never forget his short but very to the point lecture that ensued on the proper way to spend the Sabbath.

Fast forward to now. I (and I think a lot of mom’s will agree) can’t really think of Sunday as a “Day of Rest”. Let’s see...

*I get up, and get the kiddos up (and Hubby too).
*Get showered, and shave my legs, (usually the only day I do this, unless it is Capri weather) so it is a longer shower than normal.
*Do my hair and make-up, more fancy than the everyday stuff.
*Get dressed in ‘Sunday Best’.
*Find, or help C.J. find his ‘Sunday Best’ (and usually Hubby too).
*Bath, and dress Belle, spending extra time on her hair to get it just right. She is the ‘darling girl’ of the ward, and I’m determined to keep that status (she is also the only girl her age, so this whole ‘status’ thing is probably in my head... but I digress) her hair is curly, a.k.a needs a lot of attention so to not look messy.
*Then, breakfast for everyone. Everyone but me, because I’m usually to busy to eat, or I just forget (I’m not a big breakfast person... probably because it is not normally accepted to eat chocolate for breakfast. Then I would be a BIG breakfast person... digressing)
*Then at the last minute, (because I have procrastinated yet again, and the whole morning is a mad dash) I race around trying to get my church bag ready. If you saw the size of my purse, you would think everything I needed could fit in my purse (think tote size). But no, that is my purse, for ‘mommy’s stuff’ –lip gloss, keys, planer, diaper wipes, (even though Belle is now trained, you still need wipes) therefore the need of my ‘church bag’ with quite toys, sippy cups, paper, cheerios, books, and most importantly, the binky.
*Finally off to Sacrament, where you want your child to behave their best for a whole hour (and Hubby too). Where they see a vast audience to perform for. (a consequence of having the girl ‘darling’ of the ward... I know, I know, in my head, but that’s where we are right now) And what are you going to do? You can’t threaten your children (and Hubby too) within an inch of their lives sitting on the second row, ten feet in front of the Bishop. Then I start to compare, how does mom of the R- family get her children sit so quite, or why you never hear a peep from the H- family or how can I get my kids to sing like K- family? Thoughts like, “Please don’t decide right now is the time to: be ‘cute’ and scream at the top of your lungs, or see how far you can throw your binky, or yell “NO, NO!” to everyone during the practice Hymn,” run through my head. Then just as my anxiety is about to take over... Sacrament meeting is done, and...
*REST... The two hours of Sunday School and Relief Society are the only two hours I get in the whole week kid free. I can sit with my hands folded, and relax. Converse in ‘grown-up’ talk and discuss our religion. *big sigh* (unless I’m substituting... again, digressing)
*Then pick the kids (and Hubby too) up/ find the rowdy rascals and corral them to the car, while trying to chat with ‘so and so’ to get updates on ‘so and so’ and also making appointments for Visiting Teaching, lastly to find a blasted member of the bishopric to give the tithing envelope to.

*Now, home, where I’m fighting off the kiddos (and hubby too) who are ravenous while fixing the biggest meal of the week, and trying to keep some order to the house. “Can we please keep the spirit in our house?” I try not to scream.
*Cleanup from the biggest meal, usually results in the biggest cleanup of the weak. And the ‘Biggest Meal’ part... Who ever said the biggest meal has to be on Sunday. I’m sure some one did, because everyone does it. My mom did it, (with the help of two darling daughters) and on T.V. they do it (by ‘everyone’ I mean my mom and everyone on T.V. That gives me enough authority to make such declarations). Why can’t the ‘Biggest Meal’ be on Wednesday, or Friday? I think Monday would work well for us.
*Preparing lesson for visiting teaching, while baking cookies, or making cards to give to sisters.
*Off to Visit and Teach said sisters.
*Home, and put kids to bed. (Hubby is usually in bed napping before returning to work at the second job... unless there is a football game on)

Why is the “Day of Rest” not very restful?
I’m taking back my ‘Day of Rest’!

This means rearranging things, and doing others the day before, or latter in the week, or using the Crockpot for dinner. But I want to ‘rest’ on my Sabbath, to read scriptures, to cuddle up with my family and watch all three “Work and the Glory” DVD’s in succession (we did do that once- o.k. it was mostly the Hubby and me with the kids in and out, but Hubby is a convert, and it was educational, emotional, and fun!) To have that one day where we rest our bodies and enlighten our minds and spirits! I challenge all of you, to make Sunday your ‘Day of Rest’!

I think she’s a girl!

2008-09-20T12:20:00.003-06:00

One of my clients said, (before we had Belle) “You need to have a girl. It would be such a waist if you didn’t.” I had always felt this way too. I couldn’t wait to have a girl of my own to dress up, and do her hair. My own Barbie ;)

Well, for the last two years it has been just as I would hope. She lets me do her hair every morning, and she keeps the bows and clips in her hair (most of the time). For her birthday, Belle acquired a few more necklaces and bracelets, and she has seemed to have a renewed desire for the feminine, constantly putting on her tutu that I made for her, and new accessories.

The other day I told Belle it was time to go to the store, and then she disappeared. When I found her she was dressed like this...
Note: she has two purses Pictures like these make a “mom of a girl” very proud. Now if I could only get her to stop stripping all her dolls.

Giving Props...

2008-09-09T09:38:00.001-06:00

(This post is going to embarrass my modest friend, but I can’t help myself)

My friend Mariam is fabulously creative. Growing up together I, of course, knew this. My memory is not what it used to be, but thinking back on the things that do come easily to mind, her talents have a wide range. Like me, she loves to do ‘crafty’ things, and things with her hands. I remember in Young Women’s she wrote a song for us to sing in Sacrament Meeting (not so ‘crafty’ in the typical sense but CREATIVE, and ‘with her hands’). She painted an aesthetic look on her walls in her room (something done often now, but back then it was before the trend). She quilted Carter a blanket when he was born (which I still have). She blew my flower hair clips out of the water with her own at our ‘unorganized flower swap’ a few weeks ago.

This is only a small demonstration of her talents that leave me in veneration, now she has another to add to the list. She has started to make Wire Jewelry. I’ve seen some of these creations with my own eyes, and I even have a necklace in my possession. Well, she has decided to sell her pretty treasures on-line at a site called Esty for very reasonable prices. Here’s the link to her shop. So, go check it out, and be prepared to have people offer to bye these pieces off your body (an actual occurrence with her work).

Happy Birthday Belle!!

2008-09-07T17:08:00.004-06:00

I know it is a commen phrase, but I can’t believe it, my baby is 2! We had a small family party where, of course, she was lovingly spoiled. The biggest hits were her home-made tutu from mama, and her very own kitchen set. I didn’t get her potty-trained, but she has accomplished so many things in these past two years. She is learning her colors, even though most, according to her, are “yeyow” She talks more and more ever day, not an uncommon thing in our house ;) Her favorite game of late is to chase anyone who dare turn their back on her, with her arms in the air, “I gun gicha”. She takes care of us all, giving (insisting) us bites of her food, asking “Goo?” Putting blankets on us even when it’s 100*’s outside, and rushing to our sides pouring out hugs and kisses when she thinks we are sad or hurt. She has brought so much joy into our lives, leaving every day (and sometimes nights) an adventure.

In Love With School?

2008-09-04T21:21:00.003-06:00

Well, my sister put up a new background on her blog, inspiring me to do so also. She has a cute school themed one, so I searched our favorite site for blogs The Cutest Blog on the Block. I found this one, and so decided to write a post about our school year this year.

For those who don’t know I home-school Carter. Even though I was informed quite rudely by another home-schooling mother that I don’t in fact “home-school” because we are technically a charter school in Idaho, the way I think of it is I teach Carter (who affectionately wants to be referred to as C.J. now) and we are at HOME... Making us a home-school, right?

Last year Carter entered the 4th grade. I couldn’t believe it! I went to the same grade school Carter was, at the moment, in. He was now in the upstairs classrooms, and for those who remember, that’s where the ‘big kids’ were. Carter was now a big kid!

I was excited too. I, after a busy summer (Jarrod moving to Atlanta, us moving into my parent’s home, searching for an apartment, then us moving into our apartment, and then Jarrod moving back from Atlanta) was ready to have Carter back in school, and getting my free time back. (as free as a mom with an infant can expect) Free to bake and shop, and clean.

Then came the homework... Carter would spend the day at school, where he was being taken out of class for “Title One” (it used to be “chapter one” when I was a kid) five times a day. I know that sounds like quite a lot, but the teachers, as well as the special education teachers, were telling me he needed it. I, thinking they knew their craft better than I, succumbed to their suggestions.

So after five hours of school and a 45 min. bus ride (to be dropped off 6 blocks away from school) Carter would get home... home to another 3 hours of home work and not going to bed until 9:00- late when he would have to be up and ready for the bus at 7:30. “What are they doing at school, that he needs to bring home 3 hours of home work” I would ask myself.

After about a month of this hellish schedule,I felt something lacking with public school, and started wondering about alternatives. I had looked at charter schools in our area, but there aren’t a lot of options in our town, sadly enough, and the waiting lists are a nightmare. Private schools were out of the question, based on our limited income. I had looked at home-schooling before earlier in the year, but soon became overwhelmed with all the information, and not knowing where to start.
Then my mom told me of a home-school that she had heard a politician talk about called K12. I thought the name was weird, but I was desperate. I went on-line and found all the information I needed, and Carter was enrolled by the next Monday. His school is actually the Idaho Virtual Academy, and they use the K12 curriculum.

First of all, it is all COMPLETELY 100% FREE. As if that wasn’t enough, they sent us a computer and printer, they pay for our internet, and they send us all the books and materials we need for every lesson. It’s all mapped out for me, I simply give Carter a little instruction, and the rest is taken care of.

The school has all sorts of outings for the IDVA families all year long, so the kids and families can get to know each other. The only down side that I have found is that there isn’t a big community in our town for home-schooling either. Up north about 40 minutes away there is a HUGE community, but with gas and our car in the state they are in, it’s not possible for us to get up there often.

I’ll admit the first year was a struggle. We came in over a month late, and were playing catch up all year, but I absolutely LOVE the curriculum. Every lesson is so well organized. You have the flexibility to adapt for your child. If Carter isn’t too interested in a particular subject as long as he can pass his lesson assessment with an 80% or higher, he can move on. If he enjoyed a different lesson, and wanted to learn more he was given more information to get more in-depth. Carter started Spanish this year, and he loves it. He sat down an did almost a weeks worth of lessons in a few hours, and with this school that’s o.k.! If you want to do math for a whole week, (I don’t know why you would, but kids do funny things) you can do math for the whole week.

Another up side would be the absolute FREEDOM that we have that we didn’t before. When Carter was in public school I knew he would get home around 3:40, and I would have to plan my daily activities accordingly. Now, if we all want to go to a movie during the middle of the day we can. If we need to go out of town we can. If Carter is sick we can still do work, but concentrate on the more laid back stuff.

This year has just been such a smooth transition for us. I have been able to put Belle down for her nap, and we get all- if not almost all- of his school work done in that 2-2 ½ hours and then we are done for the day! Carter was able to advance into the 5th grade almost 6 months sooner than other kids his age, and if we continue on this path he could be at an 8th grade level by the time he is ready to enter middle school.

I just love this school. I could go on and on about it!!

Cheeesy Girls and Muddy Boys.

2008-09-02T21:31:00.003-06:00

We had a fun Labor Day weekend. Rachel and her girls came to stay with me, and Mack and Shaan came with their boys to stay with mom and dad.

Belle and Lydia decided to do a duet on the piano. The adults were visiting around the kitchen table as we do, when we heard a tinkering on the keys. They weren’t even looking at the camera, but when they heard Rachel and me

Click click click

“cheeeese” was their response. They know what to do!

Then the boys... who are ALL boy found their entertainment in what else? The mud. Do you think they like to pose?

It’s Potty Time!!!

2008-09-02T11:00:00.003-06:00

O.k. Here we go! Belle turns 2 on Saturday and I’m determined to potty-train her this week so I can have her “Potty-trained before she was two”. *wink wink*

The only problem? I don’t know what I’m doing! My dear mother (whom one would normally go to for such dilemmas) never potty-trained any of us kids. When the time/age came for us she would send us on a convenient visit to Grandma Bartschi’s where we would return diaper free.

Now Carter is potty-trained, but that was quite a journey and a battle. After struggling for about 6 months with him I decided to give it a break. After a bit when he was about 3 ½ I bought him a little pop-up book for kids on using the “big potty” and that was it! He read it once, and after that we didn’t have so much as an accident.

Now, I know Belle is ready, she communicates well enough, I’m not so sure on the motivation though. So, I am imploring any of you for some helpful advice. My friend Mariam gave me some great ideas from a book she read, but I can’t remember the name...

Blogging rut.... Forgive me, all...

2008-08-21T22:57:00.004-06:00

With a bit of luck, all will be back to some sort of order shortly. A diminutive insight, and reasoning to my neglect:

-We moved... I can’t find anything because of a last-minute problem, causing us to move with utter CHAOS.

-My sister bought me a long awaited book for my birthday that I was unable to put down... Now, this might not be a problem for most of you, but when it comes to reading/writing and then the rest of my life, I have a struggle with priorities. As long as the kids are fed and dressed, and not clawing each others eyes out, I have a book in hand.

-My brother bought me another book... see the pattern here? Ya, I think they are my enablers... (Just kidding... they know I love to read, I shan’t blame them)

-Now unpacking... Now that I’m unpacking, I am also throwing things away so we can keep everything de-cluttered... but I still can’t find anything...Why does my sister live in UTAH??! ;)

-My novel is coming to life... again... for those who didn’t know, I’m making a naive attempt at writing a novel, that always springs to life after a good reading spell. It is fascinating how one’s (at least mine) mind works when writing. I will hear one sentence, or read one line, and suddenly a whole new plot twist unfolds in my mind. I love its stimulating affect it has on the creative part of my intellect.

Last but not least, and probably the most deserving reason...

-Carter’s school has started... Again for those who didn’t know, I home-school Carter, and his school that we do on-line started this week.

O.k., that is my short list rationalization for a lack of presence, intended for those few faithful readers (that I could probably count on one hand). ;) Be forbearing, I shall return with verve!!!