"I'm Going Home" - Daughtry
Because literally this week I am going home.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
So...potty diaries II
Potty training week 2.
Second Daughter was accident free yesterday!
I am a very proud mama.
I now have about 30% confidence that she won't wet her pants.
I have 0% confidence that she won't mess her pants.
Second Daughter was accident free yesterday!
I am a very proud mama.
I now have about 30% confidence that she won't wet her pants.
I have 0% confidence that she won't mess her pants.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
So...Best Friend
Best Friend
I call you best friend back when
dreams were held close like teddy bears.
One day I'm not looking
and we grow up.
I speak to you of love and dreams and God.
You, best friend,
call me ridiculous
and I can't breathe.
Wednesday Prompt:
"telling the truth is a dangerous business"
I call you best friend back when
dreams were held close like teddy bears.
One day I'm not looking
and we grow up.
I speak to you of love and dreams and God.
You, best friend,
call me ridiculous
and I can't breathe.
Wednesday Prompt:
"telling the truth is a dangerous business"
So...Wimbledon here I come
Being a mom is kind of like learning how to play tennis.
Or at least I think it is.
That first kid is like you on the court for the first time.
Brand new racquet.
Decked out head to toe in all the tennis gear you need - sweat band, wrist bands, and all.
Maybe even knee pads.
Just you and your instructor. One tennis ball at a time.
Your instructor hits you the ball. You take a swing.
Maybe you hit it.
Maybe you don’t.
Maybe it hits you.
But that doesn’t really matter. It’s all about learning and getting used to how that racquet feels in your hand.
Eventually you get the hang of it. You can hit it straight back to your instructor with ease. Maybe you even put a little spin on it.
You are gaining confidence.
Right when you start feeling comfortable, your instructor starts hitting it harder.
Starts hitting it to the left and the right. Making you run a little bit.
It’s a little harder and you might even start breaking a sweat.
But you got it.
You can handle it.
You can even do more.
You have another kid.
Now two balls are being hit at you.
It’s little difficult at first, but again, you get the hang of it.
Eventually.
It’s hard.
Sometimes it even feels impossible when the two balls are being hit to you in two different directions.
Maybe you hit one.
Maybe you hit both.
Maybe you miss.
But again, it’s all about learning and getting used to it.
One tennis ball at a time.
You can’t give up.
You don't want to give up.
Now I have three kids.
You’d think three kids = three tennis balls.
Wrong.
Somedays I feel like the instructor has left me alone with that automatic ball dispensor thing, full blast, shooting a million balls at me a minute.
“Mom!” “Mom!” “Mom!” “MOM!!!”
I can’t quite react quickly enough.
They just keep coming at me.
It’s those moments that I feel like curling on the floor of the court in the fetal position, hiding under my racquet, and hoping that the balls don’t hit me right in the face.
Most days I don’t.
I stay on my feet.
Never stand still.
Keep running left, right, jumping to get the high ones, ducking from the ones coming straight at my face.
Just keep moving and get as many as I can.
And those days when I am on fire and get to everything hit my way - those days are the best.
I feel like I can do anything.
I feel like I can do everything.
Then somedays the instructor comes back and lightly hits me one ball at a time.
And that feels nice.
It’s all about learning, right?
One tennis ball at a time.
Being a mom is kind of like learning how to play tennis.
Or at least I think it is.
I’ve never actually learned to play tennis.
So I wouldn’t really know :)
Or at least I think it is.
That first kid is like you on the court for the first time.
Brand new racquet.
Decked out head to toe in all the tennis gear you need - sweat band, wrist bands, and all.
Maybe even knee pads.
Just you and your instructor. One tennis ball at a time.
Your instructor hits you the ball. You take a swing.
Maybe you hit it.
Maybe you don’t.
Maybe it hits you.
But that doesn’t really matter. It’s all about learning and getting used to how that racquet feels in your hand.
Eventually you get the hang of it. You can hit it straight back to your instructor with ease. Maybe you even put a little spin on it.
You are gaining confidence.
Right when you start feeling comfortable, your instructor starts hitting it harder.
Starts hitting it to the left and the right. Making you run a little bit.
It’s a little harder and you might even start breaking a sweat.
But you got it.
You can handle it.
You can even do more.
You have another kid.
Now two balls are being hit at you.
It’s little difficult at first, but again, you get the hang of it.
Eventually.
It’s hard.
Sometimes it even feels impossible when the two balls are being hit to you in two different directions.
Maybe you hit one.
Maybe you hit both.
Maybe you miss.
But again, it’s all about learning and getting used to it.
One tennis ball at a time.
You can’t give up.
You don't want to give up.
Now I have three kids.
You’d think three kids = three tennis balls.
Wrong.
Somedays I feel like the instructor has left me alone with that automatic ball dispensor thing, full blast, shooting a million balls at me a minute.
“Mom!” “Mom!” “Mom!” “MOM!!!”
I can’t quite react quickly enough.
They just keep coming at me.
It’s those moments that I feel like curling on the floor of the court in the fetal position, hiding under my racquet, and hoping that the balls don’t hit me right in the face.
Most days I don’t.
I stay on my feet.
Never stand still.
Keep running left, right, jumping to get the high ones, ducking from the ones coming straight at my face.
Just keep moving and get as many as I can.
And those days when I am on fire and get to everything hit my way - those days are the best.
I feel like I can do anything.
I feel like I can do everything.
Then somedays the instructor comes back and lightly hits me one ball at a time.
And that feels nice.
It’s all about learning, right?
One tennis ball at a time.
Being a mom is kind of like learning how to play tennis.
Or at least I think it is.
I’ve never actually learned to play tennis.
So I wouldn’t really know :)
Saturday, July 25, 2009
So...Resolutions Revisited
Since 2009 is more than half over, I thought it was about time I reviewed my resolutions and recommitted myself.
Resolutions 2009:
1.) lose baby weight
Hmmm...I am still working on this one. I unfortunately am not one of those mothers that loses the weight quickly and/or easily. In fact, my body fights to keep the weight on while I'm nursing, so I do what I can with what I've got. On a more positive note, I have lost half of my weight. Too bad I have 20 lbs to go... I'll just keep reminding myself it's already half gone. Positive thinking is the key :) I have started running though and have a goal to lose 5-10 lbs before our cruise in September.
2.) daily scripture study
I must say, I was doing GREAT with this one for a long time, but definitely need to recommit myself. I made a plan - Mon/Wed/Fri Book of Mormon; Tues/Thurs D&C - which worked really well and read at the same time every day. It was working really well. Somehow I have not been very consistent lately, but like I said - I'm recommitting.
3.) be a better friend
This one is a little hard to measure, but I can say that I am still trying. I do still think about this daily, which I consider a success. I still could be doing better, but I am trying. At least I can say I haven't lost any friends!
4.) write the second letter
I am working on this one. Almost done.
5.) organize garage for food storage/emergency preparedness
Ok...so sad as it is, I think this one may be put off until next year. Our plan was to build shelves in the garage this spring/summer, but it just hasn't happened and I don't see it happening anytime soon. Who knows? Perhaps we will be motivated to do it in the fall. But most likely next year.
6.) go camping
Again, who knows if this will happen this year. It may turn into a campout in our backyard. Apparently our family keeps getting bigger and our tent doesn't...so I don't know if we could make a camping trip work with the supplies we have. But I would love to still try.
7.) date nights
I lost track of how often we actually go on dates, but we have been doing a decent job at this. I think we have gone out on a date at least once a month, and we do a good job at spending time together when we can. Now with three kids, it's a bit harder, but still doable and still necessary (if not more). Again, I'm going to recommit to this goal. I think it is the most important one.
8.) breakfast
We are doing SO MUCH BETTER at this one. I prepare breakfast for the kiddos every morning. Sometimes they still don't eat it, but at least it's there and at least I'm being consistent. These waffles have helped recently.
So how are you all doing on your resolutions?
It's never too late to recommit.
And it's never too late to add to and/or change your list.
I may just add wake up before my kids but I'm afraid that might be setting the bar a little too high for myself. You should never set an unrealistic goal for yourself right? ;)
No, seriously... I need to figure out how to get my lazy self out of bed in the mornings one of these days.
Resolutions 2009:
1.) lose baby weight
Hmmm...I am still working on this one. I unfortunately am not one of those mothers that loses the weight quickly and/or easily. In fact, my body fights to keep the weight on while I'm nursing, so I do what I can with what I've got. On a more positive note, I have lost half of my weight. Too bad I have 20 lbs to go... I'll just keep reminding myself it's already half gone. Positive thinking is the key :) I have started running though and have a goal to lose 5-10 lbs before our cruise in September.
2.) daily scripture study
I must say, I was doing GREAT with this one for a long time, but definitely need to recommit myself. I made a plan - Mon/Wed/Fri Book of Mormon; Tues/Thurs D&C - which worked really well and read at the same time every day. It was working really well. Somehow I have not been very consistent lately, but like I said - I'm recommitting.
3.) be a better friend
This one is a little hard to measure, but I can say that I am still trying. I do still think about this daily, which I consider a success. I still could be doing better, but I am trying. At least I can say I haven't lost any friends!
4.) write the second letter
I am working on this one. Almost done.
5.) organize garage for food storage/emergency preparedness
Ok...so sad as it is, I think this one may be put off until next year. Our plan was to build shelves in the garage this spring/summer, but it just hasn't happened and I don't see it happening anytime soon. Who knows? Perhaps we will be motivated to do it in the fall. But most likely next year.
6.) go camping
Again, who knows if this will happen this year. It may turn into a campout in our backyard. Apparently our family keeps getting bigger and our tent doesn't...so I don't know if we could make a camping trip work with the supplies we have. But I would love to still try.
7.) date nights
I lost track of how often we actually go on dates, but we have been doing a decent job at this. I think we have gone out on a date at least once a month, and we do a good job at spending time together when we can. Now with three kids, it's a bit harder, but still doable and still necessary (if not more). Again, I'm going to recommit to this goal. I think it is the most important one.
8.) breakfast
We are doing SO MUCH BETTER at this one. I prepare breakfast for the kiddos every morning. Sometimes they still don't eat it, but at least it's there and at least I'm being consistent. These waffles have helped recently.
So how are you all doing on your resolutions?
It's never too late to recommit.
And it's never too late to add to and/or change your list.
I may just add wake up before my kids but I'm afraid that might be setting the bar a little too high for myself. You should never set an unrealistic goal for yourself right? ;)
No, seriously... I need to figure out how to get my lazy self out of bed in the mornings one of these days.
Friday, July 24, 2009
So...Sherbet Blossom
I am so excited about my next Inspiration:She is the reason I started So Buttons.
I was talking to her one night with a group of friends and the subject turned to her designs and her blog. As soon as I got home that night I checked out her blog and loved it. I was completely inspired and decided to take the chance at starting my own - completely aware that probably nobody was going to read it.
Anyway...
I think Hannah is amazing.
She definitely inspires me.
She is incredibly talented, driven, ambitious, beautiful, stylish, a wonderful mother, and I just think she's great.
Oh, and I love her blog.
She frequently has great giveaways (one of which I actually won!), she shares wonderful and yummy recipes, and so many more fun things.
And did I mention she does design work also, including blog design?
Like I said, she's amazing.
Sherbet Blossom is a definite daily read of mine.
If you haven't checked out her blog yet, you must!
> How long have you been blogging and what inspired you to start?
In july of 2007, I went out to eat with two good friends and blogging experts. We discussed what we love about blogging and blogs that inspire us. At the time, I had been blogging my family events for 2 years and had no plans to do anything more. But, after our discussion, Sherbet Blossom came to be. It began as it still is, a place to document my passions, feelings, comings and goings. It has been an unexpected joy in my life and I have met many wonderful people who I am now lucky to call friends.
> You are an incredibly talented designer and have such a classic, yet current style. Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
Inspiration comes from everywhere! Shapes, signs, magazines, fabric, antique books. I have a hard time looking at anything without analyzing the design. I keep a sketchbook and camera with me to draw or take pictures whenever I get an idea.
> Quite frequently you have giveaways on your blog. Do companies contact you with their product or do you reach out to them? Do you have any advice for bloggers who want to start doing giveaways?
90% of them contact me. My greatest advice is build your site. I started by commenting on a lot of blogs. I think that is the greatest way to get some traffic. But, you also need to have content that appeals to a wider audience.
> You are a very busy woman! With a full time job as a designer, your own business on the side, keeping up multiple blogs, and being a stay at home mom of two small children, how do manage it all? Any secrets?!
In july of 2007, I went out to eat with two good friends and blogging experts. We discussed what we love about blogging and blogs that inspire us. At the time, I had been blogging my family events for 2 years and had no plans to do anything more. But, after our discussion, Sherbet Blossom came to be. It began as it still is, a place to document my passions, feelings, comings and goings. It has been an unexpected joy in my life and I have met many wonderful people who I am now lucky to call friends.
> You are an incredibly talented designer and have such a classic, yet current style. Where do you find inspiration for your designs?
Inspiration comes from everywhere! Shapes, signs, magazines, fabric, antique books. I have a hard time looking at anything without analyzing the design. I keep a sketchbook and camera with me to draw or take pictures whenever I get an idea.
> Quite frequently you have giveaways on your blog. Do companies contact you with their product or do you reach out to them? Do you have any advice for bloggers who want to start doing giveaways?
90% of them contact me. My greatest advice is build your site. I started by commenting on a lot of blogs. I think that is the greatest way to get some traffic. But, you also need to have content that appeals to a wider audience.
> You are a very busy woman! With a full time job as a designer, your own business on the side, keeping up multiple blogs, and being a stay at home mom of two small children, how do manage it all? Any secrets?!
I often wonder that myself. All mothers are busy, but some of us take it too far. I pull a lot of ultra-late nights and don't spend as much time with friends as I would like. I definitely look forward to the day that my life slows down. As for secrets, I really don't have any, but if I ever learn one, I'll let you know!
> You have so many different talents and skills. What is something that you can’t do (if anything!) that you wish you could?
> You have so many different talents and skills. What is something that you can’t do (if anything!) that you wish you could?
There are a lot of things I can't do! I want to be a runner. I want to write better. I want to learn to quilt. I am a huge klutz, so my dream of being a dancer is probably not going to come to fruition. I have a list I have been compiling for a few years now of things that I want to learn to do and I try to work on one at a time.
> When (and if) you have time to do something for yourself, what is your favorite thing to do, even if you don’t get to do it often?
Time for Myself? What is that? I often feel like when I am not with my kids, I am working, so alone time is few and far between. I have very few hours a month where I can just sit and be on my own and I usually spend that time journaling, reading or crafting. My goal in life is to find one hour a day to myself, and when that happens, I plan on sewing my first quilt and reading lots of books.
> What are your top three favorite blogs and what do you love about them?
Only 3? I have so many blogs that I love for so many different reasons. The first three that come to mind are:
http://cafejohnsonia.blogspot.com/
Lindsey and I became friends through blogging. She is AMAZING. The Ice Cream Queen!! Just be warned that if you are on a diet, she'll tempt you to cheat! When she moved from New York to Utah, I snatched the cooking goddess up and invited her to out cooking club. So glad she joined!
http://onmyperch.blogspot.com/
I love Perch! She has wonderful taste and great ideas. It is a fun blog to read and she always has plenty of pictures for a visual person like myself.
http://www.martawrites.blogspot.com/
Marta is a beautiful writer and so real. She is an inspiring mother, designer and homemaker. She makes me look at simple things and see beauty.
http://angrychicken.typepad.com/
Angry Chicken is SOOOO FUN! It is my favorite craft site. (I also love her Tie One On blog!)
You meant 4 right?
> Do you have anything new and/or exciting coming up on your blog that you want us to know about?
I have some great giveaways and craft tutorials coming in the next month or two!
> When (and if) you have time to do something for yourself, what is your favorite thing to do, even if you don’t get to do it often?
Time for Myself? What is that? I often feel like when I am not with my kids, I am working, so alone time is few and far between. I have very few hours a month where I can just sit and be on my own and I usually spend that time journaling, reading or crafting. My goal in life is to find one hour a day to myself, and when that happens, I plan on sewing my first quilt and reading lots of books.
> What are your top three favorite blogs and what do you love about them?
Only 3? I have so many blogs that I love for so many different reasons. The first three that come to mind are:
http://cafejohnsonia.blogspot.com/
Lindsey and I became friends through blogging. She is AMAZING. The Ice Cream Queen!! Just be warned that if you are on a diet, she'll tempt you to cheat! When she moved from New York to Utah, I snatched the cooking goddess up and invited her to out cooking club. So glad she joined!
http://onmyperch.blogspot.com/
I love Perch! She has wonderful taste and great ideas. It is a fun blog to read and she always has plenty of pictures for a visual person like myself.
http://www.martawrites.blogspot.com/
Marta is a beautiful writer and so real. She is an inspiring mother, designer and homemaker. She makes me look at simple things and see beauty.
http://angrychicken.typepad.com/
Angry Chicken is SOOOO FUN! It is my favorite craft site. (I also love her Tie One On blog!)
You meant 4 right?
> Do you have anything new and/or exciting coming up on your blog that you want us to know about?
I have some great giveaways and craft tutorials coming in the next month or two!
Thanks Hannah!
Coming up on Inspirations:
Not Too Shabby
Wonderfully Wordy
Taryn
Thursday, July 23, 2009
So...You Goonie!
I really am surprised it took me so long to blog about this.
I was so excited to visit Oregon last month for a family reunion, but ESPECIALLY excited to visit Astoria, home of The Goonies, and a few of the sites from the movie.
Can't you just picture Data zip-lining out the upper right window of the above house right into the screen door of the below Goonie house?
These two houses really are next door to each other and as the above sign states, they let visitors walk right up. The only thing missing is the mousetrap gate entrance out front with Chunk doing the Truffle Shuffle.
And a few miles down the road is Cannon Beach, where the beach/ocean scenes were filmed.
Can't you just picture One-Eyed Willie's ship sailing in from the left?
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
So...waffles
We have been loving this recipe for waffles lately. I'll make a big batch for me and the girls for breakfast and we'll eat them all week. They toast up nicely in the toaster oven as leftovers. I usually use the whole egg instead of egg whites (mostly because it's easier to throw the whole egg in) and they are still yummy.
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
Monday, July 20, 2009
So...potty diaries
Potty training week 1.
So far so good.
I think.
We threw Second Daughter in underwear at the beginning of this week. That's it. Just woke up one morning and instead of putting a new diaper on her, out came the panties. We didn't really discuss it, we didn't really make a big deal of it, we just did it. And I can't really tell how it's going. We're just kind of going with it.
She has had some accidents, of course, but overall she does pretty well. We have even been able to go places accident free. Good sign.
Bad news though - she now has strep (her and First Daughter) which isn't really helping things. LOTS of popsicles, LOTS of Sprite, and LOTS of ice water + sick girl taking LOTS of naps = safety diapers. Accidents are bound to make a sick sad girl even sadder.
We're hoping to pick up where we left off in a couple days.
So far so good.
I think.
We threw Second Daughter in underwear at the beginning of this week. That's it. Just woke up one morning and instead of putting a new diaper on her, out came the panties. We didn't really discuss it, we didn't really make a big deal of it, we just did it. And I can't really tell how it's going. We're just kind of going with it.
She has had some accidents, of course, but overall she does pretty well. We have even been able to go places accident free. Good sign.
Bad news though - she now has strep (her and First Daughter) which isn't really helping things. LOTS of popsicles, LOTS of Sprite, and LOTS of ice water + sick girl taking LOTS of naps = safety diapers. Accidents are bound to make a sick sad girl even sadder.
We're hoping to pick up where we left off in a couple days.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
So...It's been awhile since I've been "it"
1. What is your current obsession?
Kissing my babies' cheeks.
2. What do you hate that everyone else seems to love?
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. A complete waste of Brad Pitt.
3. What are you wearing today?
Jeans that I don't quite fit into yet, a shirt, and a Downeast wonder tee.
Pretty much the same thing everyday in variations...(see #16)
4. What’s for dinner?
Leftover chicken enchiladas. Again.
5. What would you eat for your last meal?
PB & honey & Wheat Thins - picnic at the park with the kiddos.
Oh wait, what would I eat for my last meal EVER, not what did I eat for my last meal....
That's an easy answer: Thanksgiving Dinner. No cranberry sauce.
6. What is the last thing you bought?
A BIG drink at Walkers.
7. What are you listening to right now?
Silence. Naptime is a precious gift that I am holding on to for dear life.
8. What do you think of the person that tagged you?
Well, I tagged myself from Mary Kaye...
I think she is exceptional. She is my sister-inlaw that I have always looked up to and admired. She's beautiful, whitty, thoughtful, and a loving mother & friend.
9. If you could have a house- fully paid for and totally furnished where would it be?
Cape Cod, MA on a private beach, with lots of windows.
10. If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would it be?
Massachusetts. Seriously. I miss it and am so excited to be there in 3 weeks.
Massachusetts completes me. :)
11. What is one of your hobbies?
Making mixes, or slideshows put to music.
12. What is your favorite quote?
"It's never too late to become the person you might have been."
-George Elliot
"There is no growth inside your comfort zone and there is not comfort inside your growth zone."
-Anonymous
13. What is your favorite color?
Pink.
I have three little girls and pink reminds me of them.
The pinker the better.
14. What is your favorite piece of clothing in your wardrobe?
My soccer sweats from high school. They are a bit trashy - way too big for me, so I have to roll them, and yes they say "SOCCER" across the bum - but I love them and wear them a lot....around the house.
15. What is your dream job?
Professional athlete. Not in my current state, but obviously if I was a professional athlete things would be different, if you know what I mean...
16. Describe your personal style?
um...non-existent???? I don't really have a sense of style... (see #3 & #14)
I don't know, if you're talking clothes I would say very casual and relaxed, pretty simple.
If you're talking decorating house, I would say straight, clean lines, mostly neutrals with accent colors. Mostly modern (not too extreme modern) with some traditional elements mixed in.
I guess the best way to describe my "style" is 1) Simple, 2) I like what I like.
17. What is your favorite tree?
Blossoming Pear.
White blossoms in spring, green leaves in summer, and bright red leaves in fall.
I like trees that show me all the seasons.
But if I'm talking one specific tree, of course my favorite is Nan.
18. What are you going to do after this?
Cleanup. This place is a disaster.
19. What is your favorite fruit?
pineapple
20. What inspires you?
Husband. Everyday.
21. Who was the last person that you kissed?
First Daughter.
22. What are you currently reading?
The Book of Mormon - trying to finish before the end of the year.
Uncle Tom's Cabin, but it's not going very well....
23. Go to your bookshelf, take down the first book that you see with a red binding, turn to page 26 and type out the first line.
"Would you like a fine pet?"
-Happy Birthday to You! by Dr. Seuss
Inspiring...
24. What delighted you the most today?
My 44 oz. Dr. Pepper.
I know.
I'm pathetic.
25. If your life had a theme song, what would it be?
this is a hard one because I feel like there's a different song for each stage of my life. But for this stage I would say "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. Whenever I hear that song my kids go through my mind and I get all teary.
26. If you bought a wiener dog today, what would you name it?
Pepe
27.What is a character trait or habit of yours that you inherited from one of your parents?
Laughing at my own jokes, even if no one else is laughing. Thanks Dad :)
The rules:
1.Respond and rework; answer the questions on your blog, replace one question you dislike with a question of your own.
2. Tag eight other people.
People I Tag: Julie, Kari, Becca, Erica, Amy, Becky, Kelly, Allison - and anyone else who wants to!
Kissing my babies' cheeks.
2. What do you hate that everyone else seems to love?
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. A complete waste of Brad Pitt.
3. What are you wearing today?
Jeans that I don't quite fit into yet, a shirt, and a Downeast wonder tee.
Pretty much the same thing everyday in variations...(see #16)
4. What’s for dinner?
Leftover chicken enchiladas. Again.
5. What would you eat for your last meal?
PB & honey & Wheat Thins - picnic at the park with the kiddos.
Oh wait, what would I eat for my last meal EVER, not what did I eat for my last meal....
That's an easy answer: Thanksgiving Dinner. No cranberry sauce.
6. What is the last thing you bought?
A BIG drink at Walkers.
7. What are you listening to right now?
Silence. Naptime is a precious gift that I am holding on to for dear life.
8. What do you think of the person that tagged you?
Well, I tagged myself from Mary Kaye...
I think she is exceptional. She is my sister-inlaw that I have always looked up to and admired. She's beautiful, whitty, thoughtful, and a loving mother & friend.
9. If you could have a house- fully paid for and totally furnished where would it be?
Cape Cod, MA on a private beach, with lots of windows.
10. If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would it be?
Massachusetts. Seriously. I miss it and am so excited to be there in 3 weeks.
Massachusetts completes me. :)
11. What is one of your hobbies?
Making mixes, or slideshows put to music.
12. What is your favorite quote?
"It's never too late to become the person you might have been."
-George Elliot
"There is no growth inside your comfort zone and there is not comfort inside your growth zone."
-Anonymous
13. What is your favorite color?
Pink.
I have three little girls and pink reminds me of them.
The pinker the better.
14. What is your favorite piece of clothing in your wardrobe?
My soccer sweats from high school. They are a bit trashy - way too big for me, so I have to roll them, and yes they say "SOCCER" across the bum - but I love them and wear them a lot....around the house.
15. What is your dream job?
Professional athlete. Not in my current state, but obviously if I was a professional athlete things would be different, if you know what I mean...
16. Describe your personal style?
um...non-existent???? I don't really have a sense of style... (see #3 & #14)
I don't know, if you're talking clothes I would say very casual and relaxed, pretty simple.
If you're talking decorating house, I would say straight, clean lines, mostly neutrals with accent colors. Mostly modern (not too extreme modern) with some traditional elements mixed in.
I guess the best way to describe my "style" is 1) Simple, 2) I like what I like.
17. What is your favorite tree?
Blossoming Pear.
White blossoms in spring, green leaves in summer, and bright red leaves in fall.
I like trees that show me all the seasons.
But if I'm talking one specific tree, of course my favorite is Nan.
18. What are you going to do after this?
Cleanup. This place is a disaster.
19. What is your favorite fruit?
pineapple
20. What inspires you?
Husband. Everyday.
21. Who was the last person that you kissed?
First Daughter.
22. What are you currently reading?
The Book of Mormon - trying to finish before the end of the year.
Uncle Tom's Cabin, but it's not going very well....
23. Go to your bookshelf, take down the first book that you see with a red binding, turn to page 26 and type out the first line.
"Would you like a fine pet?"
-Happy Birthday to You! by Dr. Seuss
Inspiring...
24. What delighted you the most today?
My 44 oz. Dr. Pepper.
I know.
I'm pathetic.
25. If your life had a theme song, what would it be?
this is a hard one because I feel like there's a different song for each stage of my life. But for this stage I would say "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith. Whenever I hear that song my kids go through my mind and I get all teary.
26. If you bought a wiener dog today, what would you name it?
Pepe
27.What is a character trait or habit of yours that you inherited from one of your parents?
Laughing at my own jokes, even if no one else is laughing. Thanks Dad :)
The rules:
1.Respond and rework; answer the questions on your blog, replace one question you dislike with a question of your own.
2. Tag eight other people.
People I Tag: Julie, Kari, Becca, Erica, Amy, Becky, Kelly, Allison - and anyone else who wants to!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
So...I admit...
I have a bit of photography envy.
Or maybe it's camera envy.
OK - maybe it's both.
I have tried really hard to not make a point about how I wish I had a better camera and how I wish I could take better pictures. Seriously, I'm just glad I HAVE a camera and that I can document (no matter how blurry) our crazy, fun, amazing life. Honestly, a lot my life seems blurry anyway with these kids running around! I'm just keeping it real, right?!
But if I'm being completely honest...I wish I had a better camera and I wish I could take better pictures. Especially since it seems like everyone and their mom, AND their dog, is getting into photography & photoshop these days. And I really truly admire those who have the talent, ability, and tools necessary. Who knows? Maybe a nice camera wouldn't make that much of a difference anyway. Maybe I don't have the gift. And it truly is a gift!
Oh well.
I will remember how glad I am to have a digital camera, because I really am.
I will keep taking pictures. Lots.
And I will keep posting them.
And you will never hear (or read) another word from me about photography envy.
I promise. :)
moving on...
Or maybe it's camera envy.
OK - maybe it's both.
I have tried really hard to not make a point about how I wish I had a better camera and how I wish I could take better pictures. Seriously, I'm just glad I HAVE a camera and that I can document (no matter how blurry) our crazy, fun, amazing life. Honestly, a lot my life seems blurry anyway with these kids running around! I'm just keeping it real, right?!
But if I'm being completely honest...I wish I had a better camera and I wish I could take better pictures. Especially since it seems like everyone and their mom, AND their dog, is getting into photography & photoshop these days. And I really truly admire those who have the talent, ability, and tools necessary. Who knows? Maybe a nice camera wouldn't make that much of a difference anyway. Maybe I don't have the gift. And it truly is a gift!
Oh well.
I will remember how glad I am to have a digital camera, because I really am.
I will keep taking pictures. Lots.
And I will keep posting them.
And you will never hear (or read) another word from me about photography envy.
I promise. :)
moving on...
Monday, July 13, 2009
So...first the swine flu...
...(that would be Husband who had the swine flu)...
Now I have strep.
Lame. I know.
I don't know what it is about summer, but we always seem to get sick in the summer! I am just waiting for First Daughter to come down with her annual case of Croup. Seriously. I'm waiting.
I was up really late on Thursday night, blogging, writing cards to family, and making mixes (a perfectly good reason to stay up late, right?) and all of sudden my throat started hurting. I assumed it was because it was so late and my body was telling me it was time for bed. When I woke up Friday morning I leaned over the Husband and said "I feel like I have strep" but then got up, got ready, and went on with my day. By about noon, I felt horrible - freezing cold, couldn't stop shivering, dizzy and woozy, throat still hurting, body aching - and called Husband because I didn't feel like I could take care of the kids. It really was that bad. I thought "oh no - I have the swine flu." When Husband got home he told me to go to the doctor, but the thought of it made me cry. That's how bad I felt. All I wanted to do was crawl into bed. So that's what I did.
I was in bed the rest of Friday, most of Saturday, and most of Sunday. My symptoms gradually got better - all except the throat. That just kept getting worse. Finally, last night, when I couldn't take it any longer, I went to the Instacare. I knew Husband had to go back to work today and I didn't think I could make it on my own and I was desparate for some miracle drug to make it all go away. So off to Instacare I go, in the 90 degree weather, wearing my polar fleece and long pants because I'm freezing.
I remember the days when throat cultures took almost half a day to come back with results on whether or not I had strep. It really has been that long since I've had it. I guess I wasn't that surprised though to hear that the tests now come back in about 7 minutes. It has been quite a while and medicine has come quite a long ways. I was sitting in the doctor's office waiting for the results and the doctor to come in when I heard a beep go off in the hall, which I assumed meant my test was done. I then heard a "Whoa!" from the doctor. Then he came in and told me I have strep. I guess I really have strep, or he was just surprised...? He then so kindly told me I have a weird shaped throat. Thanks...?
Another difference from the last time I had strep is that they can now give me a shot. Instead of taking pills for the next 10 days they just gave me one whopping dose and I should be feeling better shortly. Hallelujia! Because seriously, I don't think I can take many more nights of waking up every hour to suck on ice cubes and cough drops to try and soothe the pain.
Strep throat is lame. And that's that.
Now I have strep.
Lame. I know.
I don't know what it is about summer, but we always seem to get sick in the summer! I am just waiting for First Daughter to come down with her annual case of Croup. Seriously. I'm waiting.
I was up really late on Thursday night, blogging, writing cards to family, and making mixes (a perfectly good reason to stay up late, right?) and all of sudden my throat started hurting. I assumed it was because it was so late and my body was telling me it was time for bed. When I woke up Friday morning I leaned over the Husband and said "I feel like I have strep" but then got up, got ready, and went on with my day. By about noon, I felt horrible - freezing cold, couldn't stop shivering, dizzy and woozy, throat still hurting, body aching - and called Husband because I didn't feel like I could take care of the kids. It really was that bad. I thought "oh no - I have the swine flu." When Husband got home he told me to go to the doctor, but the thought of it made me cry. That's how bad I felt. All I wanted to do was crawl into bed. So that's what I did.
I was in bed the rest of Friday, most of Saturday, and most of Sunday. My symptoms gradually got better - all except the throat. That just kept getting worse. Finally, last night, when I couldn't take it any longer, I went to the Instacare. I knew Husband had to go back to work today and I didn't think I could make it on my own and I was desparate for some miracle drug to make it all go away. So off to Instacare I go, in the 90 degree weather, wearing my polar fleece and long pants because I'm freezing.
I remember the days when throat cultures took almost half a day to come back with results on whether or not I had strep. It really has been that long since I've had it. I guess I wasn't that surprised though to hear that the tests now come back in about 7 minutes. It has been quite a while and medicine has come quite a long ways. I was sitting in the doctor's office waiting for the results and the doctor to come in when I heard a beep go off in the hall, which I assumed meant my test was done. I then heard a "Whoa!" from the doctor. Then he came in and told me I have strep. I guess I really have strep, or he was just surprised...? He then so kindly told me I have a weird shaped throat. Thanks...?
Another difference from the last time I had strep is that they can now give me a shot. Instead of taking pills for the next 10 days they just gave me one whopping dose and I should be feeling better shortly. Hallelujia! Because seriously, I don't think I can take many more nights of waking up every hour to suck on ice cubes and cough drops to try and soothe the pain.
Strep throat is lame. And that's that.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
WSMGS Pick of the Week
"The Kill" - 30 Seconds to Mars
These lyrics are extremely powerful and will always be somewhat of an anthem in my life.
These lyrics are extremely powerful and will always be somewhat of an anthem in my life.
So...You Think You Can Dance II
Ok, so I know I have already filled my SYTYCD quota for the day :) but I really loved this one too. Complete opposite set of emotions attached to this one from the previous post, but I loved it almost as much.
So uplifting and just a feel good number. Enjoy!
So...You Think You Can Dance
I LOVE this show.
ab.so.lute.ly LOVE IT
And dances like this is the reason why.
This piece was so incredibly powerful to me. I was almost brought to tears. I had to keep rewinding it to watch it over again.
And this is what I love about the arts. The ability to express emotions more powerfully than words ever could. It speaks directly to the heart and soul. For a moment they brought me into that world of feelings.
This piece is about addiction.
So powerful.
This video is long, but worth every second.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
So...clarification
Husband being gone isn't the reason the past three days have been the best of the summer.
Just wanted to make that clear.
:)
Just wanted to make that clear.
:)
So...amazing
It is amazing what you can do when you have to.
Lately I have been having a lot of feelings of inadequacy, underachieving, falling short all over the place, yadayadayada... (which are all rediculous and destructive thoughts, but yet there they were)... which were mostly surrounding my abilities as a wife, mother, and homemaker. Husband has been working A TON this week so far and has barely been home. He's been home long enough to get a sleepy grunt goodbye from me in the mornings and a graugy sigh goodnight when he gets home around midnight. I knew this busy week was coming and was a little concerned when everything came to a rough volcanic eruption of emotions on Sunday night and I was feeling like I couldn't do what I needed to do. How was I going to do it with him gone? I was really prepared for awfulness.
But like I said, it is amazing what you can do when you have to.
The past three days - Mon/Tues/Wed - have been three of the best days of our summer. And I am feeling great. And I'm not feeling overwhelmed. And all of those awful, unproductive feelings I was having are gone. I CAN do this and I think I might actually be doing a pretty good job. My kids are happy, my family is functioning, and that's all that matters.
And prayer (along with sweet words of encouragement) really works miracles.
It really does.
Lately I have been having a lot of feelings of inadequacy, underachieving, falling short all over the place, yadayadayada... (which are all rediculous and destructive thoughts, but yet there they were)... which were mostly surrounding my abilities as a wife, mother, and homemaker. Husband has been working A TON this week so far and has barely been home. He's been home long enough to get a sleepy grunt goodbye from me in the mornings and a graugy sigh goodnight when he gets home around midnight. I knew this busy week was coming and was a little concerned when everything came to a rough volcanic eruption of emotions on Sunday night and I was feeling like I couldn't do what I needed to do. How was I going to do it with him gone? I was really prepared for awfulness.
But like I said, it is amazing what you can do when you have to.
The past three days - Mon/Tues/Wed - have been three of the best days of our summer. And I am feeling great. And I'm not feeling overwhelmed. And all of those awful, unproductive feelings I was having are gone. I CAN do this and I think I might actually be doing a pretty good job. My kids are happy, my family is functioning, and that's all that matters.
And prayer (along with sweet words of encouragement) really works miracles.
It really does.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
So...lucky day
I found a dollar in my pocket today.
LOVE when that happens.
Oh how I wish I could pull out a check for $1 million.
Or maybe just $100,000.
Ok, I'd even take $50.
That would be a REALLY lucky day.
LOVE when that happens.
Oh how I wish I could pull out a check for $1 million.
Or maybe just $100,000.
Ok, I'd even take $50.
That would be a REALLY lucky day.
Monday, July 6, 2009
So...superpower
If I could have any superpower, it would be to read minds.
Because that's who I am.
I care what people think.
I wish I didn't care so much, but I do.
I know it's lame.
Most of the time it's a good thing - it helps me keep trying to be better. But sometimes it's not such a good thing. But I figure, if I could just read people's minds, then I wouldn't have to worry so much about what they think. It would save me so much stress, tears, awkward conversations, and late night talks with Husband about whether or not I'm doing a good job. I could just GET ON WITH MY LIFE and not waste so much time trying to figure out what people think.
I know it's silly and I wish I didn't care.
But that's who I am.
I care what people think.
And I want to make people happy.
Because that's who I am.
I care what people think.
I wish I didn't care so much, but I do.
I know it's lame.
Most of the time it's a good thing - it helps me keep trying to be better. But sometimes it's not such a good thing. But I figure, if I could just read people's minds, then I wouldn't have to worry so much about what they think. It would save me so much stress, tears, awkward conversations, and late night talks with Husband about whether or not I'm doing a good job. I could just GET ON WITH MY LIFE and not waste so much time trying to figure out what people think.
I know it's silly and I wish I didn't care.
But that's who I am.
I care what people think.
And I want to make people happy.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
So...G!
Letter G!
G is for Green Grass
(No Time for Flashcards)
1. paint the G green
2. While paint is drying, collect grass
3. Cover G with glue (another G word!)
4. Glue Green Grass onto Green G
G is for Gumdrop
glue dumdrops onto little g
Display!!!
We also used glitter glue that First Daughter got for her birthday, but my camera's flash stopped working right this week so I haven't been taking many pictures inside.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
So...pictures
A picture is worth a thousand words.
Or is it a million...?
Whatever it is...I have found inspiration for blog posts after FINALLY uploading pictures from my camera onto my computer from the past month.
Hopefully these pictures will fill my blog with post for the next week or so. (Hopefully...)
Here's the first blogworthy picture:
First Daughter and Friend at Disney's: Beauty & the Beast put on at the Scera Shell Outdoor Amphitheater.
This was our first time at the Scera Shell and I can't believe that we haven't been there sooner. I absolutely loved it! And the girls did too! The theater is located in the middle of a park in Orem, on a beautifully green grassy hill surrounded by TREES (oh how I love trees). There are sections in the theater with chairs, but most of the theater is grass for blankets and folding chairs for patrons to bring. The atmosphere is what I loved the most. I loved the families, CHILDREN INCLUDED, laying out there blankets, with their picnic dinners and bagged treats, cuddling together under a blanket, under the stars, to watch a THEATER PRODUCTION together. LOVED it. And, if that wasn't good enough, the production was fantastic. First Daughter was enthralled the whole time (being obsessed with Disney Princesses might have helped a bit) and because of the outdoor theater, was able to sing along with all her favorite songs!
I continue to be amazed at how quickly children grow. First Daughter is becoming more and more independent and I find myself transitioning into more of a spectator than the ring leader in her social life. Those two girls were giggling and chatting up a storm the whole night. They have their own inside jokes and adventures to find. I am amazed, proud, and a little bit weepy...
So...
I am a BIG FAN of the Scera Shell Outdoor Amphitheater, and will be making sure to return summer after summer. Next year we're bringing the whole fam! And dinner too!
Or is it a million...?
Whatever it is...I have found inspiration for blog posts after FINALLY uploading pictures from my camera onto my computer from the past month.
Hopefully these pictures will fill my blog with post for the next week or so. (Hopefully...)
Here's the first blogworthy picture:
First Daughter and Friend at Disney's: Beauty & the Beast put on at the Scera Shell Outdoor Amphitheater. This was our first time at the Scera Shell and I can't believe that we haven't been there sooner. I absolutely loved it! And the girls did too! The theater is located in the middle of a park in Orem, on a beautifully green grassy hill surrounded by TREES (oh how I love trees). There are sections in the theater with chairs, but most of the theater is grass for blankets and folding chairs for patrons to bring. The atmosphere is what I loved the most. I loved the families, CHILDREN INCLUDED, laying out there blankets, with their picnic dinners and bagged treats, cuddling together under a blanket, under the stars, to watch a THEATER PRODUCTION together. LOVED it. And, if that wasn't good enough, the production was fantastic. First Daughter was enthralled the whole time (being obsessed with Disney Princesses might have helped a bit) and because of the outdoor theater, was able to sing along with all her favorite songs!
I continue to be amazed at how quickly children grow. First Daughter is becoming more and more independent and I find myself transitioning into more of a spectator than the ring leader in her social life. Those two girls were giggling and chatting up a storm the whole night. They have their own inside jokes and adventures to find. I am amazed, proud, and a little bit weepy...
So...
I am a BIG FAN of the Scera Shell Outdoor Amphitheater, and will be making sure to return summer after summer. Next year we're bringing the whole fam! And dinner too!
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